Holidays coming... hell, holidays here.
Normally, I would have had most of the gifts made, but, sadly, not this year. With a little one on the way, the energy level is through the floor. Have one almost done though. So, happy about that.
Work has been well enough, plenty of things to do and catch up on. Other than that, not a whole lot going on.
Hope you all have a great Thanksgiving!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Saturday, November 12, 2011
12 Nov. 2011
Contest Update:
The votes have been closed and the results in. Won by 4 votes, with 8 total.
Gotta say, I am in shock -- still.
Second year in a row, I never saw this coming. I was shocked last year when I won. This year . . . I am beside myself. Maybe it'll sink in by the end of the week . . .
The votes have been closed and the results in. Won by 4 votes, with 8 total.
Gotta say, I am in shock -- still.
Second year in a row, I never saw this coming. I was shocked last year when I won. This year . . . I am beside myself. Maybe it'll sink in by the end of the week . . .
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Crazy Ideas
Have spent much of the last fifteen minutes thinking about how we may have to get by without the laptop (it is on its last legs) and got to thinking about the desktop we rarely use. New keyboard, speakers and maybe a flat panel it'll be like a whole new comp. Well, and clean the HD good. The thing has so many old files it's insane.
We have like 4-5 desktop profiles on it, one for all, one for Mike (dunno why, he was fine with using any), one for me, and one for my biz. Okay, there are two for that. And that's what turned my thoughts for crazy ideas I chased.
I wanted to have my own period clothing biz (still do). And I was getting ready to start up a paranormal group back in Detroit. I miss that field, I truly do, but by the gods it just seems so . . . slack-eyed and no-brained . . .
I wonder what I was thinking (I know what I was thinking) and wonder why Mike was so happy to see me go through with it. Eh, maybe that's self-doubt talking now. I miss the work -- was good at it.
Not that that was all I've been tossing around the ol' noggin. I've, also, been thinking about Kenneth (and any siblings he'll have down the road). He'll have crazy ideas, too! And I want to see him chase them with a joyful heart. Would love to help him reach any and every one!
Go ahead and dream, Kiddo. You've got two parents behind you, 100%!
We can live without the laptop. Going back to notebooks and pencils while in the living room is not something I don't already do. And Kenneth seeing the computer as a tool, rather than a toy, would not be a bad thing. Would do us all good to unplug a little more around here.
Getting back to basics clears the head, heart, and soul.
. . . and it's not like we're going to have a lot of extra time for the comp with being active parents.
Yup, I've had some crazy ideas (got the plastic bag parachutes to work when I was a kid, jumping off the roof -- not planning to tell Kenneth. until he's 30). Some good, some . . . why on earth . . .
Yes, we could live without the laptop should it crap out before we can replace it. Hell, we've both grown up without computers, for the most part. Mike's seen less of them than I have. I did a little programing back in Jr. High, used Word Star before that for my stories.
Haha, off topic, but Word Star was great! Until you tried to edit. Little hint: save after EVERY change. Damn thing was notorious for freezing up while doing so.
We can go back to pen and paper, even without electricity. All we want is to raise our family, see them chase any dream they have and help them reach any that we can.
And all this, just because of an old, crazy idea . . .
We have like 4-5 desktop profiles on it, one for all, one for Mike (dunno why, he was fine with using any), one for me, and one for my biz. Okay, there are two for that. And that's what turned my thoughts for crazy ideas I chased.
I wanted to have my own period clothing biz (still do). And I was getting ready to start up a paranormal group back in Detroit. I miss that field, I truly do, but by the gods it just seems so . . . slack-eyed and no-brained . . .
I wonder what I was thinking (I know what I was thinking) and wonder why Mike was so happy to see me go through with it. Eh, maybe that's self-doubt talking now. I miss the work -- was good at it.
Not that that was all I've been tossing around the ol' noggin. I've, also, been thinking about Kenneth (and any siblings he'll have down the road). He'll have crazy ideas, too! And I want to see him chase them with a joyful heart. Would love to help him reach any and every one!
Go ahead and dream, Kiddo. You've got two parents behind you, 100%!
We can live without the laptop. Going back to notebooks and pencils while in the living room is not something I don't already do. And Kenneth seeing the computer as a tool, rather than a toy, would not be a bad thing. Would do us all good to unplug a little more around here.
Getting back to basics clears the head, heart, and soul.
. . . and it's not like we're going to have a lot of extra time for the comp with being active parents.
Yup, I've had some crazy ideas (got the plastic bag parachutes to work when I was a kid, jumping off the roof -- not planning to tell Kenneth. until he's 30). Some good, some . . . why on earth . . .
Yes, we could live without the laptop should it crap out before we can replace it. Hell, we've both grown up without computers, for the most part. Mike's seen less of them than I have. I did a little programing back in Jr. High, used Word Star before that for my stories.
Haha, off topic, but Word Star was great! Until you tried to edit. Little hint: save after EVERY change. Damn thing was notorious for freezing up while doing so.
We can go back to pen and paper, even without electricity. All we want is to raise our family, see them chase any dream they have and help them reach any that we can.
And all this, just because of an old, crazy idea . . .
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
09 Nov. 2011
lol, some nights, Google just sux. Pulled up With Pen And Pad and found a page saying it'd been removed. (blinks; tries to breathe) Excuse me?!
so, didn't need that heart attack tonight.... but with a short walk through the dash, I found it working. Am so glad!
Going to draft out a pat for a stocking for a Christmas gift tomorrow and start work. With any luck, could have it finished by the time Mike goes back to work. Really hoping to have it opened by the recipient on Black Friday. Gives them time to enjoy it.
Work has been going well. Will get another page in tonight then leave it alone. I still need to revise 'Holbrook.' Never did get that in when I had planned. Lucky me, it was a self-imposed deadline (though those still need to be kept). Will aim for submission on Monday -- maybe Saturday.
so, didn't need that heart attack tonight.... but with a short walk through the dash, I found it working. Am so glad!
Going to draft out a pat for a stocking for a Christmas gift tomorrow and start work. With any luck, could have it finished by the time Mike goes back to work. Really hoping to have it opened by the recipient on Black Friday. Gives them time to enjoy it.
Work has been going well. Will get another page in tonight then leave it alone. I still need to revise 'Holbrook.' Never did get that in when I had planned. Lucky me, it was a self-imposed deadline (though those still need to be kept). Will aim for submission on Monday -- maybe Saturday.
Monday, November 7, 2011
08 Nov. 2011
To save time, and maybe get a bit more professional foundation (no expert on blogging, not by a long shot), spent about an hour building a new blog tonight. For the writing aspect of life, while this is my sacred corner of the world to post what I wish.
I never intended to pull down the previous posts. I posted them, they are part of this blog. Am happy with that.
With Pen & Pad is for the working side of life. Maybe more tangents will follow, crafting probably. But, doubt it'll happen in the next year or so.
Family first, work, then fun. Honestly, family is the most fun -- as it is important -- in life.
I never intended to pull down the previous posts. I posted them, they are part of this blog. Am happy with that.
With Pen & Pad is for the working side of life. Maybe more tangents will follow, crafting probably. But, doubt it'll happen in the next year or so.
Family first, work, then fun. Honestly, family is the most fun -- as it is important -- in life.
07 Nov. 2011
Yeah, doesn't matter about publishing record or no, the site's contact info has been removed, or they screwed up the code and have not noticed yet. Either way, I found a new project to take it's place. Gotta be versatile in this business. And nothing due for the rest of this month. Which gives me time to work on things at home and get the Noir (flash) novel into gear.
Though, yes, the new project has my muse going. I'll finish that first then get back to focusing elsewhere. If anything, it'll allow for the outline to solidify. Always a plus!
Oh, got another review in from 'Mitch,' the other novel I had to put to the side while pregnant (it is a stressful piece). I'm never less than surprised when good news comes back -- I love it, love it, love it. Hahahaha, was even told by the test reader they now hate me, due to the cliffhangers. Honestly, hadn't even realized I put them in there. Been trying to, to liven it up, but could not find the perfect spot. Guess the piece did so all by itself. One mark of a good piece. It has a life of its own.
So, things are definitely looking up! And I simply cannot lose time sulking over a lost avenue, especially for a short piece -- which I can write for anywhere. Things will work out.
They always do.
Though, yes, the new project has my muse going. I'll finish that first then get back to focusing elsewhere. If anything, it'll allow for the outline to solidify. Always a plus!
Oh, got another review in from 'Mitch,' the other novel I had to put to the side while pregnant (it is a stressful piece). I'm never less than surprised when good news comes back -- I love it, love it, love it. Hahahaha, was even told by the test reader they now hate me, due to the cliffhangers. Honestly, hadn't even realized I put them in there. Been trying to, to liven it up, but could not find the perfect spot. Guess the piece did so all by itself. One mark of a good piece. It has a life of its own.
So, things are definitely looking up! And I simply cannot lose time sulking over a lost avenue, especially for a short piece -- which I can write for anywhere. Things will work out.
They always do.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
06 Nov. 2011
Joy of joys. One of the projects just got scrapped. The submissions became restricted today: to previously published writers.
I have been, but, dear gods, for short works, it's been so long I cannot recall where. And I've a long list of poetry published. Just worry it does not count seeing it's a different style.
Might be nothing; might be the best thing with an extra add-on having arrived yesterday.
Wish I'd kept better records back . . . Gods, 13 years ago . . . I don't even remember all the pen names I used back then (in one year alone, I used 7).
My new goal: Keep Track!
And work ten times harder.
I have been, but, dear gods, for short works, it's been so long I cannot recall where. And I've a long list of poetry published. Just worry it does not count seeing it's a different style.
Might be nothing; might be the best thing with an extra add-on having arrived yesterday.
Wish I'd kept better records back . . . Gods, 13 years ago . . . I don't even remember all the pen names I used back then (in one year alone, I used 7).
My new goal: Keep Track!
And work ten times harder.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
05 Nov. 2011 (Update)
Changes coming to Entry. In trying to find a more stable/professional platform, I've come across other avenues for web/blogging. Yeah, nothing new, but things will be different around here soon enough.
Originally, this was just a general all-around sounding board. But, as work picks up and I branch out, this blog will become more focused. As we evolve, so must our mediums. I still plan to keep Uncle's mentions around tho. The man's too important a part in my life to leave out.
We'll see how it goes. These changes will not be overnight.
And, to anyone still reading this: Thank You!
Originally, this was just a general all-around sounding board. But, as work picks up and I branch out, this blog will become more focused. As we evolve, so must our mediums. I still plan to keep Uncle's mentions around tho. The man's too important a part in my life to leave out.
We'll see how it goes. These changes will not be overnight.
And, to anyone still reading this: Thank You!
05 Nov. 2011
NaNoWriMo!!!
Yup, it's that time of year again!
Usually, I observe it in some fashion or another. I'm glad to see it's here. This year, however, I may just work on a piece in time with it (still outlining).
Rules state 50k word minimum. I'm aiming for 30k, just to keep the stress down with Kenneth on the way. Plus, 4 pages a day allows for catch up -- and gives me time to get the Yule and Christmas gifts made, surf the markets, get my other projects in and, maybe, do a little marketing (depending on which projects are picked up when).
Just have three rules to live by:
1) Doesn't have to be pretty or perfect, it just has to be written.
2) All first drafts suck! (albeit, some more than others)
3) Let the story lead you, not you leading the story. (It's an adventure! Enjoy the little trip down the rabbit hole.)
Anything else . . . that's what we have revision for. ;)
Write first, read later. I do that piece by piece -- some pieces larger than others. If anything, it helps keep the original goal in mind -- the true heart of the story. Things can change quickly. But, is it really for the best?
This month, I'll be foregoing that for marginalia.
Have done so in my earlier works . . . and helps when the story moves too fast to pause. Hoping this goes the same way. Only with a better outcome. LOL!
Earlier works are always kept in my slosh pile, an oubliette of bad writing. But, from time to time, I go back and reread (usually with my fingers over my eyes) a bit of the old days. For three reasons: 1) somewhere in those pieces, are sparks, seeds for other stories; 2) to remind myself, in times of 'am I writing badly or just being too hard on myself' that I don't suck that much; 3) to get myself thinking outside the box.
Other than that, the crap in the pile is kept solely because it's stuff I've written -- and to collect dust.
Some things, unlike fine whiskey, never get better with age.
Well, here's to NaNoWriMo!! May it forever be a challenge and a reminder of what so many of us do!
Yup, it's that time of year again!
Usually, I observe it in some fashion or another. I'm glad to see it's here. This year, however, I may just work on a piece in time with it (still outlining).
Rules state 50k word minimum. I'm aiming for 30k, just to keep the stress down with Kenneth on the way. Plus, 4 pages a day allows for catch up -- and gives me time to get the Yule and Christmas gifts made, surf the markets, get my other projects in and, maybe, do a little marketing (depending on which projects are picked up when).
Just have three rules to live by:
1) Doesn't have to be pretty or perfect, it just has to be written.
2) All first drafts suck! (albeit, some more than others)
3) Let the story lead you, not you leading the story. (It's an adventure! Enjoy the little trip down the rabbit hole.)
Anything else . . . that's what we have revision for. ;)
Write first, read later. I do that piece by piece -- some pieces larger than others. If anything, it helps keep the original goal in mind -- the true heart of the story. Things can change quickly. But, is it really for the best?
This month, I'll be foregoing that for marginalia.
Have done so in my earlier works . . . and helps when the story moves too fast to pause. Hoping this goes the same way. Only with a better outcome. LOL!
Earlier works are always kept in my slosh pile, an oubliette of bad writing. But, from time to time, I go back and reread (usually with my fingers over my eyes) a bit of the old days. For three reasons: 1) somewhere in those pieces, are sparks, seeds for other stories; 2) to remind myself, in times of 'am I writing badly or just being too hard on myself' that I don't suck that much; 3) to get myself thinking outside the box.
Other than that, the crap in the pile is kept solely because it's stuff I've written -- and to collect dust.
Some things, unlike fine whiskey, never get better with age.
Well, here's to NaNoWriMo!! May it forever be a challenge and a reminder of what so many of us do!
Friday, October 28, 2011
28 Oct. 2011
Oh, such a great day!
Spent last night up way too late, finishing a piece (rough draft), revising major and annoying misses in grammar and formatting -- Write first, Worry later! -- and searching for new publishers and pew projects. Really, not bad for 6 hours' work. It felt really good to be back in it again. Forgot how much I missed short story publications.
Then, woke up and Mike made a wonderful breakfast. He's really looking forward to me working again, more than once in a while. This has been a truly great day.
Mike is going to read over the piece (free review) and I'm going to pour over the new projects I found while he went out and about. Figured I'd be set until the end of the year. One is due end of November; two in December.
One's not for pay, but, man, am so stoked about the requested content. And what better way to simply enjoy writing than to take on a piece just for shits and giggles!
Other than that, Kenneth has been kicking up a storm... can hear him with a stethoscope now. Even answers his daddy with kicks! so cute!
Uncle has also been up and about. I love it when he's here. Sitting in the living room, in the recliner, I noticed someone (I was home alone) get up off the couch. Saw the white shirt -- it's what he wears half the time -- but wasn't sure I saw it. Shortly thereafter, I caught light out of the corner of my eye. My office light was on.
Felt really bad when I went in there to turn it off. Was like he was telling me to get back to work, I should be in my office, not out watching TV. And the room felt rather lonely. Wish I could have stayed, but I need the recliner to keep my feet up. Also, yeah, my desk was (is) a natural disaster again. It's my other project for the day.
Spent last night up way too late, finishing a piece (rough draft), revising major and annoying misses in grammar and formatting -- Write first, Worry later! -- and searching for new publishers and pew projects. Really, not bad for 6 hours' work. It felt really good to be back in it again. Forgot how much I missed short story publications.
Then, woke up and Mike made a wonderful breakfast. He's really looking forward to me working again, more than once in a while. This has been a truly great day.
Mike is going to read over the piece (free review) and I'm going to pour over the new projects I found while he went out and about. Figured I'd be set until the end of the year. One is due end of November; two in December.
One's not for pay, but, man, am so stoked about the requested content. And what better way to simply enjoy writing than to take on a piece just for shits and giggles!
Other than that, Kenneth has been kicking up a storm... can hear him with a stethoscope now. Even answers his daddy with kicks! so cute!
Uncle has also been up and about. I love it when he's here. Sitting in the living room, in the recliner, I noticed someone (I was home alone) get up off the couch. Saw the white shirt -- it's what he wears half the time -- but wasn't sure I saw it. Shortly thereafter, I caught light out of the corner of my eye. My office light was on.
Monday, October 17, 2011
17 Oct. 2011
How was your day?
Mine's gone almost nowhere.
LOL, but guess I'd have it no other way. Spent all day outlining the piece for a publisher. And it never got to the opening line until about half an hour ago.
okay, forgot I had the window up, now passed the word limit for scene: one. Glad it's just a guideline, not the hard, fast rule.
Beginning the work was slow going at best today. And, come as the words wouldn't, I shortened the word count for the opener. Anything to make it feel more plausible to get writing. The 400 words, I could allow to 800.
Only reason it's shortened, honestly, is that getting the piece on it's feet seemed impossible -- without combining the first two scenes in a way they touched. down right smooched. There is no line dividing them.
so, guess it's not all bad. at least it's getting opened. And, by the gods, have been second guessing myself sooooooo much tonight to get it this far. Seems silly. But, with the rust that has gathered on, not only me, but my writing of short pieces, has gotten quite thick.
It's coming off though. And, it feels SOOOOOOO GOOD to be working again!!! How I've missed it!! Even the hard days and heartaches. I've missed it all!
If anything, it's proved where I'm meant to be in my life: right here at the keys. All I have to do is get published again. ;)
Will deal with that when I reach it. First thing's first. Write! Write! Write!
The rest will be as it's to be. Am just glad to be working again. And, for right now, words on the page, even less than perfect ones, are gold. Revision will correct the rest. ;)
This blog did come off rather disjointed. So was I when I began it. And a 30+ minute gap, I see, didn't help. Well, not for the post. It did for the mood. Work cures all. ;)
Mine's gone almost nowhere.
LOL, but guess I'd have it no other way. Spent all day outlining the piece for a publisher. And it never got to the opening line until about half an hour ago.
okay, forgot I had the window up, now passed the word limit for scene: one. Glad it's just a guideline, not the hard, fast rule.
Beginning the work was slow going at best today. And, come as the words wouldn't, I shortened the word count for the opener. Anything to make it feel more plausible to get writing. The 400 words, I could allow to 800.
Only reason it's shortened, honestly, is that getting the piece on it's feet seemed impossible -- without combining the first two scenes in a way they touched. down right smooched. There is no line dividing them.
so, guess it's not all bad. at least it's getting opened. And, by the gods, have been second guessing myself sooooooo much tonight to get it this far. Seems silly. But, with the rust that has gathered on, not only me, but my writing of short pieces, has gotten quite thick.
It's coming off though. And, it feels SOOOOOOO GOOD to be working again!!! How I've missed it!! Even the hard days and heartaches. I've missed it all!
If anything, it's proved where I'm meant to be in my life: right here at the keys. All I have to do is get published again. ;)
Will deal with that when I reach it. First thing's first. Write! Write! Write!
The rest will be as it's to be. Am just glad to be working again. And, for right now, words on the page, even less than perfect ones, are gold. Revision will correct the rest. ;)
This blog did come off rather disjointed. So was I when I began it. And a 30+ minute gap, I see, didn't help. Well, not for the post. It did for the mood. Work cures all. ;)
Saturday, October 15, 2011
15 Oct. 2011
Yea, dry streak is over and I'm back to throwing up (in some inconvenient places)!!! Oh, joy. Only upside on this is that the sicker I am, the less likely it is of a miscarriage. Would rather I be sick than Kenneth.
On the work front, I'm rather worried. Have I forgotten what it is to be freaked out on Halloween? For weeks I've tried and tried and tried to figure out the best parts of and what makes a good scary story. I've gotten 2 written, and a 3rd nearly done, but . . . it's just the same as the old campfire tales we used to tell when the sun went down and scared ourselves silly. I so miss those days.
Back then everything made a good tale and scares were a penny a thousand. For a short story, I can't seem to find that feeling. That innocent scare.
Have I lost touch? Lost that untainted, unseasoned chill? Have I forgotten the true fun and heart of Halloween?
I think it's time I got back to basics.
On the work front, I'm rather worried. Have I forgotten what it is to be freaked out on Halloween? For weeks I've tried and tried and tried to figure out the best parts of and what makes a good scary story. I've gotten 2 written, and a 3rd nearly done, but . . . it's just the same as the old campfire tales we used to tell when the sun went down and scared ourselves silly. I so miss those days.
Back then everything made a good tale and scares were a penny a thousand. For a short story, I can't seem to find that feeling. That innocent scare.
Have I lost touch? Lost that untainted, unseasoned chill? Have I forgotten the true fun and heart of Halloween?
I think it's time I got back to basics.
Monday, October 10, 2011
11 Oct. 2011
Been working on the piece for Halloween. Not at all happy with it. The eerie feeling I wanted in the pages is null and void. How can I miss so badly??? Ugh, fun, fun. NOT!
Need to go back over it after some down time. Creepy music, ghost vids and horror movies aught to do it. Will pick it up when the groove returns. LOL.
Upside, found a new food item Kenneth lets me keep down: cinnamon rolls (without the icing). Oh, so hard not to eat the entire batch in one sitting. Oy, so much indulgence would not go well. Too much food atop the little one and up it's sent.
Will continue/revamp the piece in the morn. They asked for a piece and I want to make it good. They're my friends, some I hold like family, they deserve my best.
Need to go back over it after some down time. Creepy music, ghost vids and horror movies aught to do it. Will pick it up when the groove returns. LOL.
Upside, found a new food item Kenneth lets me keep down: cinnamon rolls (without the icing). Oh, so hard not to eat the entire batch in one sitting. Oy, so much indulgence would not go well. Too much food atop the little one and up it's sent.
Will continue/revamp the piece in the morn. They asked for a piece and I want to make it good. They're my friends, some I hold like family, they deserve my best.
10 Oct. 2011
New shirt, finally got pics that looked decent. Our son's first costume. ROFL!
Felt Kenneth rocking and rolling this morn. He had me so sick, I knew he had to be dancing up a storm. Was nearly asleep when he shot a couple of good jolts to my innards. Woke me right up! Lol. Was excited and concerned.... Still trying to wrap my mind around it. That and being able to feel him shifting around when I pressed lightly on his house.
This is so weird, so... ...something else entirely...
Can't wait to meet him.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
09 Oct. 2011
Dreaming so weird lately. Must be hormones. But, good news on the story front -- it's pretty much what my life revolves around (except family). Been requested to enter a piece this year. Wasn't 100% last I posted. Really looking forward to doing so. I take it as an honor, really. Been doing this a while -- since my teens -- and still glad to see that requests and compliments never get taken for granted.
Critiques I take with a an open mind and rooted feet. Improvement, I'm happy to work towards. Losing my voice and style, not so much. Not that one can't live with a little give and take. But being asked to submit, no matter where, still just astounds me. In the best way.
Last time, it was for a publisher in the UK. This time, from a friend. Both delight me so. Am happy to do it.
On the other front, received a great gift yesterday: a Halloween maternity shirt. Shows an adult torso in X-ray with a little one's skeleton lower down. Dude, it ROCKS!
Will be wearing it for as long as it fits!
Pic may follow. Such a great shirt. Which makes the rest of the selection rather sad. There are not that many good options for pregnant women when it comes to Halloween. 99% of them revolve around pumpkin smuggling. How lame.
At least, with a little digging, something good can still be found out there. Hopefully, there'll be more to come, too.
Critiques I take with a an open mind and rooted feet. Improvement, I'm happy to work towards. Losing my voice and style, not so much. Not that one can't live with a little give and take. But being asked to submit, no matter where, still just astounds me. In the best way.
Last time, it was for a publisher in the UK. This time, from a friend. Both delight me so. Am happy to do it.
On the other front, received a great gift yesterday: a Halloween maternity shirt. Shows an adult torso in X-ray with a little one's skeleton lower down. Dude, it ROCKS!
Will be wearing it for as long as it fits!
Pic may follow. Such a great shirt. Which makes the rest of the selection rather sad. There are not that many good options for pregnant women when it comes to Halloween. 99% of them revolve around pumpkin smuggling. How lame.
At least, with a little digging, something good can still be found out there. Hopefully, there'll be more to come, too.
Monday, October 3, 2011
03 Oct. 2011
Oy, fun, fun. Not. Mom wants the the kid baptized. Neither hubby nor I are roman catholic. Hope this is a battle we can avoid. We want the kid to have a religion, but only one they find true to their hearts and soul. It is a deeply person choice and we look forward to helping them find it.
That aside, have some GREAT news! Halloween is coming! And the story board is gearing up for their annual story night in chat! Woohoo!! Now I'm so stoked!
Now, I'm itching to come up with another experience to share. And, with working on another paranormal piece, this entry should be a bit smoother than last year's account. Still won last year's contest (no clue if this one is). Only want for this year is to chip in something worth their time.
So ready to begin!!!
By the gods, I LOVE this time of year!!
Also, found a cable pattern I like better for the gift. It's part of a sock pattern, so, had to rewrite and modify the count to make it work for wrist warmers. Took about one evening . . . minus needing to smooth out the gusset plan for the thumb. If you're going to go, go big.
If they go over as well as they will look . . . May end up having to make more. Lol. Mom is still asking for last year's wrist warmers and mitts I made for two of my aunts.
Really enjoying Terra Nova. Hubby and I are working our week (and his weekends) around it and On Demand. Hope they don't run it into the ground in the first season. TV needs a good show. And this definitely fits the bill - and so long over due. Such a great show.
That aside, have some GREAT news! Halloween is coming! And the story board is gearing up for their annual story night in chat! Woohoo!! Now I'm so stoked!
Now, I'm itching to come up with another experience to share. And, with working on another paranormal piece, this entry should be a bit smoother than last year's account. Still won last year's contest (no clue if this one is). Only want for this year is to chip in something worth their time.
So ready to begin!!!
By the gods, I LOVE this time of year!!
Also, found a cable pattern I like better for the gift. It's part of a sock pattern, so, had to rewrite and modify the count to make it work for wrist warmers. Took about one evening . . . minus needing to smooth out the gusset plan for the thumb. If you're going to go, go big.
If they go over as well as they will look . . . May end up having to make more. Lol. Mom is still asking for last year's wrist warmers and mitts I made for two of my aunts.
Really enjoying Terra Nova. Hubby and I are working our week (and his weekends) around it and On Demand. Hope they don't run it into the ground in the first season. TV needs a good show. And this definitely fits the bill - and so long over due. Such a great show.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
02 Oct. 2011
Well, did not get around to writing yet. However, did get around to thinking about it. HAHAHA! Found out we're having a BOY. So, very, very cool! We spent the rest of the day (hubby got almost no sleep before work, poor man) on cloud nine, looking at the ultrasound pics, and going through his photo album so I can put names to those of his family stopping by to visit.
As soon as we got home, his past family were popping in to look at the pics and hear the news. His dad, uncles, granddad from his mom's side, his sister, they were all so excited! It was great!! Do excuse the exclamation points, it's just been that kind of a whirlwind. HAHA. Hubby made a comment about it being nice to know they are around. His dad chimed in, in a way all fathers do, I guess, with, "you better know we're around." Made us both smile. Though, it did take hubby time to figure out who said it.
One tradition his dad had was, as soon as a grandchild arrived, he'd be there from day one and stay for the first month. Helping out around the house, with meals and such. Hubby is feeling right guilty that he'll miss this one (and any others we have).
Especially this one. This is the son to carry on the name. Which is why they all clamored in to see him. Was such a wondrous day. Even Unc stopped by to see.
Started planning out my short piece's opening. But, have not quite gotten it to paper. Will today, seeing how I'm not so ready to puke. No writer wants to ruin a notebook. lol.
Started a Christmas gift for an aunt last night. We'll see if I have a enough yarn. It may get rather tight on the second half.
As soon as we got home, his past family were popping in to look at the pics and hear the news. His dad, uncles, granddad from his mom's side, his sister, they were all so excited! It was great!! Do excuse the exclamation points, it's just been that kind of a whirlwind. HAHA. Hubby made a comment about it being nice to know they are around. His dad chimed in, in a way all fathers do, I guess, with, "you better know we're around." Made us both smile. Though, it did take hubby time to figure out who said it.
One tradition his dad had was, as soon as a grandchild arrived, he'd be there from day one and stay for the first month. Helping out around the house, with meals and such. Hubby is feeling right guilty that he'll miss this one (and any others we have).
Especially this one. This is the son to carry on the name. Which is why they all clamored in to see him. Was such a wondrous day. Even Unc stopped by to see.
Started planning out my short piece's opening. But, have not quite gotten it to paper. Will today, seeing how I'm not so ready to puke. No writer wants to ruin a notebook. lol.
Started a Christmas gift for an aunt last night. We'll see if I have a enough yarn. It may get rather tight on the second half.
Friday, September 30, 2011
30 Sep. 2011
Been back online for a few weeks now. Just, have not yet gotten caught up in the return, lol. A lot has changed since I last posted -- and some things not so much. Uncle still comes around. Scared the crap out of me the other night! How I love having him around. ;)
What has changed... We are now expecting our first child. Second ultrasound is today. We're so excited!! No clue as to what we will be having and, though we are considering finding out, we're not sure we want to. We want a boy solely to keep the surname going. Other than that, our utmost desire is a family. Neither sex would disappoint us.
Work has stopped a bit, at least on the novel -- and with so little left to write! Am withing the last 150 pages (of a 400 page book), would only take a week, maybe 1.5, to finish. But, as we learned from a previous pregnancy two years back, the stress is not good for the little one. We lost them early on. And all because I pushed myself to work instead of sitting out.
Never underestimate that....
Anyway, did find a new way to work and keep writing. Just need to get off the duff and do so. Honestly, been wondering if I've been away from short stories too long to write them again... Gotta love (and loath) self doubt.
Have a few planned out. Haha, spent 4.5 hours on outlining one a few nights ago. Which really made me realize the truth behind writing being the least lucrative profession. For one week's worth of work (50+ hours), I could make around $40? HAHAHAHA!!! Yup, in one publication. But, being publicized is worth more than that one week. It's an open door (or another one).
Have not written a short piece for publication in years and feeling the rust. But rust is very different from being green. I'm no novice. I just need to get back out there.
Later tonight, after Hubby heads back off to work, I'm going to sit down and get my butt back in gear. Not for the pay, and hardly for the print, but for our future. I want my kids to see what I do as something worth doing.
Yes, I want to be published again -- always. But, I want them to see it as a dream worth following -- even if not their own. My husband is always behind me. He loves to read my work (even the things I've no intention of making public). How I love him for that.
What has changed... We are now expecting our first child. Second ultrasound is today. We're so excited!! No clue as to what we will be having and, though we are considering finding out, we're not sure we want to. We want a boy solely to keep the surname going. Other than that, our utmost desire is a family. Neither sex would disappoint us.
Work has stopped a bit, at least on the novel -- and with so little left to write! Am withing the last 150 pages (of a 400 page book), would only take a week, maybe 1.5, to finish. But, as we learned from a previous pregnancy two years back, the stress is not good for the little one. We lost them early on. And all because I pushed myself to work instead of sitting out.
Never underestimate that....
Anyway, did find a new way to work and keep writing. Just need to get off the duff and do so. Honestly, been wondering if I've been away from short stories too long to write them again... Gotta love (and loath) self doubt.
Have a few planned out. Haha, spent 4.5 hours on outlining one a few nights ago. Which really made me realize the truth behind writing being the least lucrative profession. For one week's worth of work (50+ hours), I could make around $40? HAHAHAHA!!! Yup, in one publication. But, being publicized is worth more than that one week. It's an open door (or another one).
Have not written a short piece for publication in years and feeling the rust. But rust is very different from being green. I'm no novice. I just need to get back out there.
Later tonight, after Hubby heads back off to work, I'm going to sit down and get my butt back in gear. Not for the pay, and hardly for the print, but for our future. I want my kids to see what I do as something worth doing.
Yes, I want to be published again -- always. But, I want them to see it as a dream worth following -- even if not their own. My husband is always behind me. He loves to read my work (even the things I've no intention of making public). How I love him for that.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
15 Feb. 2011
Pages: 244
Words: 66,182
Been plugging away tonight... trying to get the written draft somewhat presentable for the file. Kind of wondering if I flubbed it a bit. It's got kick to it, and a solid vibe, but... not exactly the direction I wanted.
We'll see!
Still got control for as long as I keep writing... may see how this looks in the p.m. Tired's not really the word for what I am right now. lol The MC ran (from the police) yet I feel the strain.... this so sucks as bad as gym class back in the day rofl!
Eh, I'll take 5 and come back to it..... fresher eyes usually do the trick!
Monday, February 14, 2011
14 Feb. 2011
Happy Valentine's Day, Folks!
Hope it was a good one. ;)
Spouse and I had a great one, aside from still having to work. I let 'em sleep in half an hour, then kick back in the recliner as I took care of dinner. A little appetizer, steak and vedge, and red velvet lava cake.
lol they LOVED it... didn't get one complaint, haha, until they had to get up and go to work. They didn't want to -- just wanted to stay home and relax the night away. Who wouldn't!
I don't get to spoil them much, but when I can, I go for gold!
Andora's getting a second pouch of wet food tonight, too. Gotta spoil all today!
As for work, yeah, slow going, again. I'm having a rather rough time writing for the MC's mother and uncle. I'm no parent and I don't have to worry about calling my cat in the middle of the night and hearing someone else answer their phone. Or worry about them being chased by the police and wrestled to the ground (in front of me) -- kk, rather odd situation there, but it works for now...
so, how do I write for the characters when I do not understand what is going through their heads? Or how their emotions are tearing them one way then another?
I'll get it done. I always do. Just, I don't understand it. lol
I still have more to type up, and am still tweaking the current file, but that's about the bottom line right now.
Love him dearly...
Internet is about to laps... tho, I can still log in here... I'm planning to use the time to dive into work and plow through unabated... i.e. less excuses (youtube) not to. lol that thing's the great time waster. It's going to wreak havoc on research -- that never ends, no matter how much I've already done for this project -- but that's why we have libraries! ;)
Besides, will be good to get it done first THEN research more finer points and edit it out to where it should be... I've worked the other way for years... and it works for me, but takes much, much longer... now, I'm going to use this time to try things the other way...
I could stew and whine over the loss of the full internet, or take it in stride. And, frankly, I'm not about to put my energy into wallowing in an inch of water. That's too much effort on something so minor. And so many more meaningful things need my attention.
Hope it was a good one. ;)
Spouse and I had a great one, aside from still having to work. I let 'em sleep in half an hour, then kick back in the recliner as I took care of dinner. A little appetizer, steak and vedge, and red velvet lava cake.
lol they LOVED it... didn't get one complaint, haha, until they had to get up and go to work. They didn't want to -- just wanted to stay home and relax the night away. Who wouldn't!
I don't get to spoil them much, but when I can, I go for gold!
Andora's getting a second pouch of wet food tonight, too. Gotta spoil all today!
As for work, yeah, slow going, again. I'm having a rather rough time writing for the MC's mother and uncle. I'm no parent and I don't have to worry about calling my cat in the middle of the night and hearing someone else answer their phone. Or worry about them being chased by the police and wrestled to the ground (in front of me) -- kk, rather odd situation there, but it works for now...
so, how do I write for the characters when I do not understand what is going through their heads? Or how their emotions are tearing them one way then another?
I'll get it done. I always do. Just, I don't understand it. lol
Pages: 234
Words: 63,664
I still have more to type up, and am still tweaking the current file, but that's about the bottom line right now.
Oh, Uncle is still around tonight. not the white shirt and black pants this time, but black shadow all together. He's been pacing just off to the side. I said happy v-day to him and he seemed to brighten. Now, I don't see him, but feel him, bit happier and smiling.
Miss him when he's gone, now that I've gotten used to his company. It's nice to have family around.
Internet is about to laps... tho, I can still log in here... I'm planning to use the time to dive into work and plow through unabated... i.e. less excuses (youtube) not to. lol that thing's the great time waster. It's going to wreak havoc on research -- that never ends, no matter how much I've already done for this project -- but that's why we have libraries! ;)
Besides, will be good to get it done first THEN research more finer points and edit it out to where it should be... I've worked the other way for years... and it works for me, but takes much, much longer... now, I'm going to use this time to try things the other way...
I could stew and whine over the loss of the full internet, or take it in stride. And, frankly, I'm not about to put my energy into wallowing in an inch of water. That's too much effort on something so minor. And so many more meaningful things need my attention.
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