Really.
I'm on deadline. I have well over two months before the book is due, but I want to have it finished by the second week of July. This will give me plenty of time to set the book aside, pass it on to my freelance editor, and then get back to it with fresh eyes. In my opinion those things are necessary for the creation of a clean, well-written book.
If you think it's not possible to write a book in a month, think again. Steeple Hill has changed its word count. Manuscripts need only be 55-60 thousand words. That means two thousand words for thirty days. Piece of cake. Really. I've done this before.
Trust me when I say that if Shirlee McCoy aka Queen of Procrastination can write a book in a month anyone can do it. The key is to stick to the daily goal. Don't go back and reread, don't edit, don't angst over how bad the writing is. Write your two thousand words with the idea that you'll have another month to go back and rework and rewrite.
Remember, a first draft is just that. The idea that a person can write a clean first draft that needs no revising or polishing is a beyond my comprehension. I'm sure there are people out there who can, but I'm not one of them. By forcing myself to finish the first draft quickly, I allow plenty of time for polishing and rewriting. Which is always so much easier than getting the first draft done.
Want to write a book in a month?
Of course you do.
So, I dare you to try.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Monday, June 11, 2007
Feeling Defensive??
I brought my cats to the vet Friday. My kids were with me. As the vet examined Cosmo, he asked one of my kids if school was out for the year. My son said, "we're homeschooled." The vet looked in the cat's mouth, pressed on his belly, and then said, "so, tell me, what are you doing regarding social health?"
I think - social health? Do cats have social health? Do they need special classes? Is there something I'm supposed to be doing that I'm not? Are cats even social??
I scrambled around for an answer, nearly speechless for once and feeling like a parent who's forgotten to bring her kid in for important inoculations. Finally, I said, "Well, we're home with them all day."
The vet glanced up from the cat, nodded sagely and said, "Yes, well that's my point. Your kids are home with you all day. Do they have friends? What do you do to meet their social needs?"
My kids? This was about my kids? I thought he was examining my cats, but apparently not.
Maybe I should have been rude and told the guy it was none of his business, but I just don't have it in me. Besides, it always amuses me to see how quickly people change their mind about my homeschooling when they find out I was trained as a teacher and taught public school for several years. Immediately, I become more than a strange creature with odd ideas about child rearing and become knowledgeable and wise.
If only people knew the truth. :0)
Anyway, in case you're wondering, I took some time to explain exactly how my kids are 'socialized', including all their activities and their friends. I know I didn't need to, but somehow I always feel compelled. Let me prove that what I'm doing is okay. Let me show you that I'm not harming my kids in anyway.
I suppose it's natural to feel defensive when questioned about something personal and close to your heart. I find that I'm the same way about writing. It's very easy to jump to the defensive when someone questions what I've done in a book or a manuscript. Learning to be silent, to listen and to wait are the key to dealing with constructive and not so constructive criticism. By nature, being writers puts us in the spotlight and leaves us vulnerable. It's not easy to put heart and soul on the line. It is even harder to absorb and accept rather than defend when we feel we're being criticized. Unfortunately, it's part of the deal.
Every job has positives and negatives. Writing is no different. To be successful one must be willing to be vulnerable without getting defensive. Sometimes this means basking in the glow of well earned praise. Sometimes it means rising up from the rubble when your words have been knocked down, torn up and trampled into dust.
Like parenting, writing isn't for the faint of heart.
Of course nothing worth while is.
I think - social health? Do cats have social health? Do they need special classes? Is there something I'm supposed to be doing that I'm not? Are cats even social??
I scrambled around for an answer, nearly speechless for once and feeling like a parent who's forgotten to bring her kid in for important inoculations. Finally, I said, "Well, we're home with them all day."
The vet glanced up from the cat, nodded sagely and said, "Yes, well that's my point. Your kids are home with you all day. Do they have friends? What do you do to meet their social needs?"
My kids? This was about my kids? I thought he was examining my cats, but apparently not.
Maybe I should have been rude and told the guy it was none of his business, but I just don't have it in me. Besides, it always amuses me to see how quickly people change their mind about my homeschooling when they find out I was trained as a teacher and taught public school for several years. Immediately, I become more than a strange creature with odd ideas about child rearing and become knowledgeable and wise.
If only people knew the truth. :0)
Anyway, in case you're wondering, I took some time to explain exactly how my kids are 'socialized', including all their activities and their friends. I know I didn't need to, but somehow I always feel compelled. Let me prove that what I'm doing is okay. Let me show you that I'm not harming my kids in anyway.
I suppose it's natural to feel defensive when questioned about something personal and close to your heart. I find that I'm the same way about writing. It's very easy to jump to the defensive when someone questions what I've done in a book or a manuscript. Learning to be silent, to listen and to wait are the key to dealing with constructive and not so constructive criticism. By nature, being writers puts us in the spotlight and leaves us vulnerable. It's not easy to put heart and soul on the line. It is even harder to absorb and accept rather than defend when we feel we're being criticized. Unfortunately, it's part of the deal.
Every job has positives and negatives. Writing is no different. To be successful one must be willing to be vulnerable without getting defensive. Sometimes this means basking in the glow of well earned praise. Sometimes it means rising up from the rubble when your words have been knocked down, torn up and trampled into dust.
Like parenting, writing isn't for the faint of heart.
Of course nothing worth while is.
Monday, June 04, 2007
Where Oh Where Did My Post Go?
I'm back from New York and wrote a nice long post about the trip. Unfortunately, it's missing. I don't know why it's missing. I just know it is.
Fortunately, other things aren't missing. Like my kids. They all survived unscathed.
It's always fun to be away from home and always great to be back. Of course, now I must write, write, write. Which means feeling better about my writing. Which is sometimes much harder than it seems.
That's the trouble with what we do. No matter how many books we publish, how many compliments we get, how many rejections we file away, how many contests we fail to final in, writing really comes down to one thing - belief. Belief in self. In one's ability to succeed. Belief in the story, the characters, the plot.
Some days that's easier than others. Sometimes we ride on a high, feeling good about what we're doing and where we're headed. Other times we realize how little we know about our craft and how little talent we have in comparison to the great big pool of talent that exists in the world. Granted there are people who are always riding that high, always convinced they've got the key to success in the tips of their fingers. Personally, I think it's healthier to have a little doubt.
Sometimes, though, I have a lot of doubt.
If you ever have that problem, if you're ever dwelling in the pit of uncertainty, frozen by your conviction that you're not good enough to succeed in this business, take my advice and write anyway. The only cure for the writer's blues is to sit down and do what we love most.
Gotta scoot.
Who knows. Maybe that missing post will show up one day!
Fortunately, other things aren't missing. Like my kids. They all survived unscathed.
It's always fun to be away from home and always great to be back. Of course, now I must write, write, write. Which means feeling better about my writing. Which is sometimes much harder than it seems.
That's the trouble with what we do. No matter how many books we publish, how many compliments we get, how many rejections we file away, how many contests we fail to final in, writing really comes down to one thing - belief. Belief in self. In one's ability to succeed. Belief in the story, the characters, the plot.
Some days that's easier than others. Sometimes we ride on a high, feeling good about what we're doing and where we're headed. Other times we realize how little we know about our craft and how little talent we have in comparison to the great big pool of talent that exists in the world. Granted there are people who are always riding that high, always convinced they've got the key to success in the tips of their fingers. Personally, I think it's healthier to have a little doubt.
Sometimes, though, I have a lot of doubt.
If you ever have that problem, if you're ever dwelling in the pit of uncertainty, frozen by your conviction that you're not good enough to succeed in this business, take my advice and write anyway. The only cure for the writer's blues is to sit down and do what we love most.
Gotta scoot.
Who knows. Maybe that missing post will show up one day!
Sunday, June 03, 2007
My Editor is Bossy (and several other things I learned in New York)
New York was an interesting and fun experience. I learned a lot. Since I know you are all dying to hear each profound revelation, I will list them all in no particular order:
1. My editor is bossy.... when she's trying to save her authors from being trampled on a subway escalator. Who knew that there were rules regarding which side of the escaltor to ride on? You probably did, but I did not. Thankfully, Melissa was there to save me from certain death by stampede. I'd like to think she saved me because she couldn't stand the thought of losing me as an author (because I'm so talented. snort), but I'm pretty sure she'd have done the same for anyone. She's a great lady. Now that I owe her my life, I may have to stop being so obnoxious to her.
2. My editor doesn't have nearly as many manuscripts cluttering her office as I imagined. Sad, I know. However, truth is truth, and the truth is that I imagined piles of papers stacked to the ceiling. Melissa only had a few stacks of very happy looking manuscripts. They are all being well fed, well watered, and, of course, well read. My husband is going to download pictures. I got Melissa's permission to post them...so eventually you'll get a peak inside an editor's office. Aren't you feeling the thrill? Seriously...doesn't every author want to know what an edtior's desk looks like? Now I know. Which might not be such a good thing. Maybe they'll send goons to threaten me...keep quiet about what you've seen or we'll send dirty laundry gremlins to your house to multiply the dirty clothes that were waiting for you when you got home.
BTW...just an aside...Krista Stroever has the neatest office I have ever seen. This did not surprise me. She's the most terrifyingly organized woman I've ever met. If I didn't like and respect her so much, I'd have to suspect terrible things about her just to make myself feel better. Alas, Krista is a wonderful person and all I can do is wish that I had half the organizational skills she does. Sigh.
3. The cupcakes aren't worth the trip, but the doughnuts are.
4. Broadway Street is much longer than it seems to be.
OR
Walking from 12hundredsomething Broadway to 233 Broadway in 90 degree weather when you've got an appointment with your editor is NOT a good idea.
5. A sea of humanity actually does look like a sea. Waves, wiggles, flow and all.
I'm sure I have more to add, but my children need some mommy TLC, so I must be off.
The book signing was a blast. The cover art on the new historical line is SOOOOOO great. If you're hoping to write for the LI historical line keep those manuscripts heading in to New York.
1. My editor is bossy.... when she's trying to save her authors from being trampled on a subway escalator. Who knew that there were rules regarding which side of the escaltor to ride on? You probably did, but I did not. Thankfully, Melissa was there to save me from certain death by stampede. I'd like to think she saved me because she couldn't stand the thought of losing me as an author (because I'm so talented. snort), but I'm pretty sure she'd have done the same for anyone. She's a great lady. Now that I owe her my life, I may have to stop being so obnoxious to her.
2. My editor doesn't have nearly as many manuscripts cluttering her office as I imagined. Sad, I know. However, truth is truth, and the truth is that I imagined piles of papers stacked to the ceiling. Melissa only had a few stacks of very happy looking manuscripts. They are all being well fed, well watered, and, of course, well read. My husband is going to download pictures. I got Melissa's permission to post them...so eventually you'll get a peak inside an editor's office. Aren't you feeling the thrill? Seriously...doesn't every author want to know what an edtior's desk looks like? Now I know. Which might not be such a good thing. Maybe they'll send goons to threaten me...keep quiet about what you've seen or we'll send dirty laundry gremlins to your house to multiply the dirty clothes that were waiting for you when you got home.
BTW...just an aside...Krista Stroever has the neatest office I have ever seen. This did not surprise me. She's the most terrifyingly organized woman I've ever met. If I didn't like and respect her so much, I'd have to suspect terrible things about her just to make myself feel better. Alas, Krista is a wonderful person and all I can do is wish that I had half the organizational skills she does. Sigh.
3. The cupcakes aren't worth the trip, but the doughnuts are.
4. Broadway Street is much longer than it seems to be.
OR
Walking from 12hundredsomething Broadway to 233 Broadway in 90 degree weather when you've got an appointment with your editor is NOT a good idea.
5. A sea of humanity actually does look like a sea. Waves, wiggles, flow and all.
I'm sure I have more to add, but my children need some mommy TLC, so I must be off.
The book signing was a blast. The cover art on the new historical line is SOOOOOO great. If you're hoping to write for the LI historical line keep those manuscripts heading in to New York.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Look Out New York, here I come!
Two posts in one day. I'm as surprised as you are!
I'm leaving for New York and the BEA on Friday.
I can't believe I'm doing a book signing in the New York, but more than that, I can't believe I'm going to get to see my editor's office and the notorious slush pile. I've been dreaming about this moment for years.
Not really, but it sure sounded good, didn't it? Actually, I've been wanting to see the building that Harlequin is housed in. I'm into cool architecture, so this should be a real treat. My train leaves around seven a.m. on Friday even though I'm not signing until Saturday morning. I'll stay Friday and Saturday night. The fact that I could easily have taken the train in on Saturday morning, signed and been home Saturday night is something that I refuse to contemplate. At the moment, I am desperate for a break. Not from my hubby or kids, just from the endless routine of mommy-hood, writer-hood, and every other hood that I wear (as opposed to hats).
My mom and I are going to travel together and do some sightseeing Friday and Saturday afternoon and evening. Friday I'm heading to Harlequin to meet with Melissa, we'll take the tour of the offices and then have lunch. I've been very blessed in that I've clicked with all my editors and have a very easy working relationship with them. I enjoy them as people as much as I enjoy their expertise, so it should be a fun time.
The book I'm signing is coming out next month. VALLEY OF SHADOWS is the fifth book in my Lakeview series and is actually a follow up to EVEN IN THE DARKNESS. That means another visit to Thailand and Mae Hong Son. And another visit with Hawke. Now he was a truly great hero to write!
Of course, I nervous. Book signings always make me that way. What a blessing though, to be invited to do this!
I'm going to take pictures and have my husband post them on my website when I return.
I'm leaving for New York and the BEA on Friday.
I can't believe I'm doing a book signing in the New York, but more than that, I can't believe I'm going to get to see my editor's office and the notorious slush pile. I've been dreaming about this moment for years.
Not really, but it sure sounded good, didn't it? Actually, I've been wanting to see the building that Harlequin is housed in. I'm into cool architecture, so this should be a real treat. My train leaves around seven a.m. on Friday even though I'm not signing until Saturday morning. I'll stay Friday and Saturday night. The fact that I could easily have taken the train in on Saturday morning, signed and been home Saturday night is something that I refuse to contemplate. At the moment, I am desperate for a break. Not from my hubby or kids, just from the endless routine of mommy-hood, writer-hood, and every other hood that I wear (as opposed to hats).
My mom and I are going to travel together and do some sightseeing Friday and Saturday afternoon and evening. Friday I'm heading to Harlequin to meet with Melissa, we'll take the tour of the offices and then have lunch. I've been very blessed in that I've clicked with all my editors and have a very easy working relationship with them. I enjoy them as people as much as I enjoy their expertise, so it should be a fun time.
The book I'm signing is coming out next month. VALLEY OF SHADOWS is the fifth book in my Lakeview series and is actually a follow up to EVEN IN THE DARKNESS. That means another visit to Thailand and Mae Hong Son. And another visit with Hawke. Now he was a truly great hero to write!
Of course, I nervous. Book signings always make me that way. What a blessing though, to be invited to do this!
I'm going to take pictures and have my husband post them on my website when I return.
The Health Inspector Cometh and Why You Shouldn't Put Off That Writing Project
In the midst of the end of the school year craziness (and I won't bore you with all that means), the health inspector called to set up an appointment to inspect my house. Yes, it's true. As part of our adoption home study, we had to have the fire inspector and the health inspector out for a visit. I didn't mind the fire inspector so much. We've got smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. What could he possibly find to criticize?
The health inspector, however, freaked me out.
Don't get me wrong, my house is no pig sty. It's relatively neat and clean (unless you count deadline days...I don't). It's just that the thought of someone coming in, opening closest and cupboards, checking for hidden dirt and clutter and secret ugliness bothers me. In preparation for THE DAY, I frantically cleaned out every cupboard and every closet, I scrubbed tubs and sinks, swept floors and forced my poor husband to install the toilet in our downstairs bathroom (which is currently under construction). In other words, I cleaned more in three days than I generally do in two weeks.
When the inspector arrived I was ready. I don't know what I was expecting (maybe a white glove wearing, clip board carrying member of the clean team). What I got was a very nice twenty-something guy who sauntered into my house, checked my hot water to make sure it was working, measured my daughter's bedroom, measured our bathroom, asked where I kept toxic substances, checked our play fort for sturdiness and left.
Very anticlimactic. See, it seems that the health inspector was looking for reasons to give us a passing inspection rather than searching for reasons to fail us. Go figure.
So, here's the thing...and yes, friends, I can relate this to writing.
There are times when I put off writing related projects because I just know every word is going to be scrutinized and found lacking. I'm sure that editors and agents are searching for problems and looking for a reason to reject me. I'll waffle around, not completing a proposal, or completing it and not sending it in because I'm terrified of having all my dirty little writing secrets revealed and being shown as the fraud I am (Shirlee McCoy - author impersonator). If I allow myself to, I can sit on projects for several months.
Unfortunately, time is not an authors friend.
In the end rationality and practicality win out (why write if I'm not going to let my words be seen?) and I send my projects out, heading to the post office with sweaty palms, churning stomach, and the certainty that I am about to be rejected and eviscerated.
Meanwhile in New York, my editor is busily reading her pile of manuscripts. Though one might picture a curmudgeon, gloomily eying the to-be-read pile with various amounts of cynicism, that couldn't be further from the truth. Let me assure you that she is not wearing thick rimmed glasses and a scowl, she is not a card carrying member of the red pen society, and she does not have a giant "rejected because you stink as a writer so please don't ever submit to me again!" stamp clutched in her hand. Like the health inspector who was looking for reasons to give my house a passing grade, my editor is looking for reasons to give manuscripts space on book shelves. Her job isn't to find bad manuscripts, but to find good ones. Sure she notices when a plot isn't working or characters are weak, but she also notices when writers have promise, talent, and that special spark that makes their stories come to life. She isn't red-lining every mistake, keeping a journal and computer log about who misspelled which words how many times. Of course, she must reject more manuscripts than she buys, but what makes her happy is reading those manuscripts that stand out as just a cut above the rest.
If, like me, you worry and sweat over sending your baby off to be scrutinized, relax. Things aren't nearly as scary as they might seem. In the end, good storytelling wins out every time. So, write your stories, make them sing, then send them off. You may be surprised at how painless it all really is!
The health inspector, however, freaked me out.
Don't get me wrong, my house is no pig sty. It's relatively neat and clean (unless you count deadline days...I don't). It's just that the thought of someone coming in, opening closest and cupboards, checking for hidden dirt and clutter and secret ugliness bothers me. In preparation for THE DAY, I frantically cleaned out every cupboard and every closet, I scrubbed tubs and sinks, swept floors and forced my poor husband to install the toilet in our downstairs bathroom (which is currently under construction). In other words, I cleaned more in three days than I generally do in two weeks.
When the inspector arrived I was ready. I don't know what I was expecting (maybe a white glove wearing, clip board carrying member of the clean team). What I got was a very nice twenty-something guy who sauntered into my house, checked my hot water to make sure it was working, measured my daughter's bedroom, measured our bathroom, asked where I kept toxic substances, checked our play fort for sturdiness and left.
Very anticlimactic. See, it seems that the health inspector was looking for reasons to give us a passing inspection rather than searching for reasons to fail us. Go figure.
So, here's the thing...and yes, friends, I can relate this to writing.
There are times when I put off writing related projects because I just know every word is going to be scrutinized and found lacking. I'm sure that editors and agents are searching for problems and looking for a reason to reject me. I'll waffle around, not completing a proposal, or completing it and not sending it in because I'm terrified of having all my dirty little writing secrets revealed and being shown as the fraud I am (Shirlee McCoy - author impersonator). If I allow myself to, I can sit on projects for several months.
Unfortunately, time is not an authors friend.
In the end rationality and practicality win out (why write if I'm not going to let my words be seen?) and I send my projects out, heading to the post office with sweaty palms, churning stomach, and the certainty that I am about to be rejected and eviscerated.
Meanwhile in New York, my editor is busily reading her pile of manuscripts. Though one might picture a curmudgeon, gloomily eying the to-be-read pile with various amounts of cynicism, that couldn't be further from the truth. Let me assure you that she is not wearing thick rimmed glasses and a scowl, she is not a card carrying member of the red pen society, and she does not have a giant "rejected because you stink as a writer so please don't ever submit to me again!" stamp clutched in her hand. Like the health inspector who was looking for reasons to give my house a passing grade, my editor is looking for reasons to give manuscripts space on book shelves. Her job isn't to find bad manuscripts, but to find good ones. Sure she notices when a plot isn't working or characters are weak, but she also notices when writers have promise, talent, and that special spark that makes their stories come to life. She isn't red-lining every mistake, keeping a journal and computer log about who misspelled which words how many times. Of course, she must reject more manuscripts than she buys, but what makes her happy is reading those manuscripts that stand out as just a cut above the rest.
If, like me, you worry and sweat over sending your baby off to be scrutinized, relax. Things aren't nearly as scary as they might seem. In the end, good storytelling wins out every time. So, write your stories, make them sing, then send them off. You may be surprised at how painless it all really is!
Thursday, May 03, 2007
To Network or Not
While I was waiting to hear back on STILL WATERS, I met several pre-pubbed authors and even joined a critique group. Up to that point, I'd been writing in a cocoon, completely oblivious to anything and everything that had to do with the writing world. As I immersed myself into a totally new culture, I heard a lot of talk about the benefits of networking, the importance of attending conferences, and the need to know people. This worried me.
I knew a lot of people. However, it was obvious that those people were not the right people and that somehow my career as a writer was going to be hurt by my inability to connect with the right crowd. I began to feel like a high school freshmen standing on the fringe of the popular clique - never invited in, always just a smile away from being part of them. I didn't have the money for conferences. My kids were seven, five, four, and one. I barely had time to put words on page, let alone chat with groups of writers, rub shoulders with editors, and fly to writing conferences. Was I destined to fail before I'd even begun?
A few years later, I can say with certainty that it isn't conferences or people who help an author toward success. It's hard work, determination, perseverance in the face of rejection. It's trusting in gut instincts and believing in a story enough to carry it through to completion. Writing isn't about rules, it isn't about hobnobbing, it isn't about conferences or contests. It's about the joy of putting words to paper, it's about creating word pictures that come to life in the mind of readers. It's about work, work, work.
If you find time for other things...good. If not, don't sweat it. You're going to be just fine!
I knew a lot of people. However, it was obvious that those people were not the right people and that somehow my career as a writer was going to be hurt by my inability to connect with the right crowd. I began to feel like a high school freshmen standing on the fringe of the popular clique - never invited in, always just a smile away from being part of them. I didn't have the money for conferences. My kids were seven, five, four, and one. I barely had time to put words on page, let alone chat with groups of writers, rub shoulders with editors, and fly to writing conferences. Was I destined to fail before I'd even begun?
A few years later, I can say with certainty that it isn't conferences or people who help an author toward success. It's hard work, determination, perseverance in the face of rejection. It's trusting in gut instincts and believing in a story enough to carry it through to completion. Writing isn't about rules, it isn't about hobnobbing, it isn't about conferences or contests. It's about the joy of putting words to paper, it's about creating word pictures that come to life in the mind of readers. It's about work, work, work.
If you find time for other things...good. If not, don't sweat it. You're going to be just fine!
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Why My Cat Drinks From the Toilet (and other things I don't understand)
I have two cats. One of them loves to drink from the toilet. I don't understand this as he always has clean, fresh water available to him. We adopted the older cat when he was one. He drinks from his water bowl. We adopted Cosmo when he was a baby. He drinks from the toilet. Figure that one out, because I can't.
Here's another thing I can't figure out - why is it that it's okay to adopt a child if you're childless, or if you have (let's say) three son and no daughters, or two daughters and no sons, but not so okay when you've got four biological children of various genders? Why is it okay to have two or three kids, maybe even four, but not five or six? Perhaps the more important question is - why do people in our society feel they have the right to comment on personal decisions that have nothing to do with them, but don't feel the need to step in and lend a hand during times of trouble? Just a case in point: a few months ago my car broke down. I was stuck nearly in the middle of an intersection on a very busy road. I managed to back out of the intersection, but was blocking an entire lane of traffic. For fifteen minutes I sat waiting for my husband to arrive, my hazard lights on, cars whizzing by. In that time not one person stopped to ask if I needed help, no one offered assistance, no one even acknowledged my trouble (unless you count angry horn-honking as acknowledgment). Juxtaposed to that, we've decided to adopt and I've already had at least three people ask me why in shocked and horrified voices. Two have even gone so far as to say (this is very near a quote)that my husband and I are being greedy and selfish to want more children. I'm not particularly bothered by these comments, but I do wonder how a culture supports the rise of both the intense "be true to yourself, pursue your passions, live for you" mentality and the "I have the right to stick my nose into a near stranger's business" philosophy. In a time when individuality and isolationism are embraced, it seems strange that so many people are so worried about the decisions of others.
Perhaps this is a good thing. At least people are passionate about their thoughts and beliefs. If only we could harness that, become a culture built on community and neighborhood again; a place where we value the contributions of others and work hard to help those we see every day rather than focusing so intently on ourselves and our achievements. This life is not about what we do for ourselves, but about what we do for others. It's about service not in a wide sense of the word, not in a showy look-what-I-did-to-help sense, but in a quiet sense of selflessness, of seeking to help those that are quietly suffering - an elderly neighbor, a person we barely know who has lost someone near to them. Saving whales and dolphins is great, but let's also save those who are quietly slipping away because they have no sense of community, no sense of belonging, and no feeling that someone cares.
Shirlee's word count for Tuesday- - 5,000. Yes, that's a negative number. I've had to restart my proposal because it stinks. Let's see if I can finish it this week. How about your writing? Feel free to post word counts.
Here's another thing I can't figure out - why is it that it's okay to adopt a child if you're childless, or if you have (let's say) three son and no daughters, or two daughters and no sons, but not so okay when you've got four biological children of various genders? Why is it okay to have two or three kids, maybe even four, but not five or six? Perhaps the more important question is - why do people in our society feel they have the right to comment on personal decisions that have nothing to do with them, but don't feel the need to step in and lend a hand during times of trouble? Just a case in point: a few months ago my car broke down. I was stuck nearly in the middle of an intersection on a very busy road. I managed to back out of the intersection, but was blocking an entire lane of traffic. For fifteen minutes I sat waiting for my husband to arrive, my hazard lights on, cars whizzing by. In that time not one person stopped to ask if I needed help, no one offered assistance, no one even acknowledged my trouble (unless you count angry horn-honking as acknowledgment). Juxtaposed to that, we've decided to adopt and I've already had at least three people ask me why in shocked and horrified voices. Two have even gone so far as to say (this is very near a quote)that my husband and I are being greedy and selfish to want more children. I'm not particularly bothered by these comments, but I do wonder how a culture supports the rise of both the intense "be true to yourself, pursue your passions, live for you" mentality and the "I have the right to stick my nose into a near stranger's business" philosophy. In a time when individuality and isolationism are embraced, it seems strange that so many people are so worried about the decisions of others.
Perhaps this is a good thing. At least people are passionate about their thoughts and beliefs. If only we could harness that, become a culture built on community and neighborhood again; a place where we value the contributions of others and work hard to help those we see every day rather than focusing so intently on ourselves and our achievements. This life is not about what we do for ourselves, but about what we do for others. It's about service not in a wide sense of the word, not in a showy look-what-I-did-to-help sense, but in a quiet sense of selflessness, of seeking to help those that are quietly suffering - an elderly neighbor, a person we barely know who has lost someone near to them. Saving whales and dolphins is great, but let's also save those who are quietly slipping away because they have no sense of community, no sense of belonging, and no feeling that someone cares.
Shirlee's word count for Tuesday- - 5,000. Yes, that's a negative number. I've had to restart my proposal because it stinks. Let's see if I can finish it this week. How about your writing? Feel free to post word counts.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Would One Matter?
As a writer and one-time American studies major, I often find myself looking at news and media and wondering how much of what I'm hearing is truth and how much is a step to the right or left of fact. After the horrible tragedy Monday, I listened to several news reports and watched with horror as the number of dead rose. There are no words in any language that can describe such carnage, or that can adequately express the grief of those who lost loved ones in such a violent senseless way. I don't mean to be part of the cacophony of voices expressing opinion, horror, or national grief. There is no way my shock can compare to that of parents, students, wives, husbands, children who are living first-hand the consequences of selfish and sinful humanity. I won't dare touch on motive, won't mention the killer, won't debate sin versus sickness. To those who lost people close to them, those things don't matter.
What matters is that they lost someone they loved. That someone is not a group lying broken and bloody on a classroom floor. S/he is an individual, loved, cherished and now gone. As the media repeats over and over again that this is the worst mass murder in American history, one must ask - would this much attention be given to one soul, one broken body, one grieving family? Are we horrified by the sheer number of deaths, by the violent manner of the murders, or are we truly grieving the humanity lost that day?
Media and opinion aside, let us not lose sight of the fact that this act was not committed against a group of thirty-two, but rather against thirty-two individuals. Each should be mourned, his life remembered not because he was part of a national catastrophe, but because he was loved.
Shirlee's word count for Tuesday - 2,025
What matters is that they lost someone they loved. That someone is not a group lying broken and bloody on a classroom floor. S/he is an individual, loved, cherished and now gone. As the media repeats over and over again that this is the worst mass murder in American history, one must ask - would this much attention be given to one soul, one broken body, one grieving family? Are we horrified by the sheer number of deaths, by the violent manner of the murders, or are we truly grieving the humanity lost that day?
Media and opinion aside, let us not lose sight of the fact that this act was not committed against a group of thirty-two, but rather against thirty-two individuals. Each should be mourned, his life remembered not because he was part of a national catastrophe, but because he was loved.
Shirlee's word count for Tuesday - 2,025
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Stuff
That has nothing to do with writing....but maybe it does (if I try hard enough).
I was watching t.v. last night instead of writing (which is what I should have been doing). Actually, I was going through my normal procrastination routine - write a word, watch t.v., write two words, watch more t.v. In one hour's time, I'd managed to write a paragraph and see two programs and a LOT of commercials. One commercial in particular caught my attention. There's a school bus, a bunch of rowdy children, a school bus driver who walks onto the bus, looks at the kids with horror, opens a DVD player and turns it on. Immediately the children go into a state of near coma - staring wide-eyed at the screen, mouths gaping open as whatever is playing plays. The bus driver smiles and the commercial goes on. Something about a car providing you with what you need to keep everyone happy.
Is that what it takes to make people happy? Keep the kids quiet and occupied, keep the parents free from irritation, keep everyone doing their own thing rather than engaging?
Years ago, I read a book for a college class titled THE PLUG IN DRUG. An interesting read, the book compared the physiological response to television to that obtained by drug use. It's been a while since I read it, but I found it on Amazon plus a revised version. http://www.amazon.com/Plug-Drug-Television-Children-Revised/dp/0140076980/ref=sr_1_3/002-9051680-9599254?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1176551884&sr=1-3
Silly as it may seem, there's truth in the statement that American children spend more time with other people, on the computer, or plugged into video games and t.v. than they do with their parents. Sharing space in a house or a ride does not mean active communication is occurring. It only means we're sharing space.
As a writer and a mother, I must work hard to balance work and motherhood. Staying involved in my children's lives is key to creating a lasting relationship with them. Personally, I think that's much more important than a peace and quiet.
Shirlee's word count for 4/13 - 1500.
See, it is about writing. :0)
I was watching t.v. last night instead of writing (which is what I should have been doing). Actually, I was going through my normal procrastination routine - write a word, watch t.v., write two words, watch more t.v. In one hour's time, I'd managed to write a paragraph and see two programs and a LOT of commercials. One commercial in particular caught my attention. There's a school bus, a bunch of rowdy children, a school bus driver who walks onto the bus, looks at the kids with horror, opens a DVD player and turns it on. Immediately the children go into a state of near coma - staring wide-eyed at the screen, mouths gaping open as whatever is playing plays. The bus driver smiles and the commercial goes on. Something about a car providing you with what you need to keep everyone happy.
Is that what it takes to make people happy? Keep the kids quiet and occupied, keep the parents free from irritation, keep everyone doing their own thing rather than engaging?
Years ago, I read a book for a college class titled THE PLUG IN DRUG. An interesting read, the book compared the physiological response to television to that obtained by drug use. It's been a while since I read it, but I found it on Amazon plus a revised version. http://www.amazon.com/Plug-Drug-Television-Children-Revised/dp/0140076980/ref=sr_1_3/002-9051680-9599254?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1176551884&sr=1-3
Silly as it may seem, there's truth in the statement that American children spend more time with other people, on the computer, or plugged into video games and t.v. than they do with their parents. Sharing space in a house or a ride does not mean active communication is occurring. It only means we're sharing space.
As a writer and a mother, I must work hard to balance work and motherhood. Staying involved in my children's lives is key to creating a lasting relationship with them. Personally, I think that's much more important than a peace and quiet.
Shirlee's word count for 4/13 - 1500.
See, it is about writing. :0)
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Whatever Works
There are a lot of writing how-to books on the market. There are books on writing from the heart, books on writing the novel that lives inside you, books on plotting, characterization, word craft, synopsis writing, proposal writing.
As a reader and a writer, I applaud the concept of the how-to book. As a pragmatic person not given to believe there's only one way to do any particular thing, I'm doubtful any book can make a writer's path easier. The fact is, all the plotting, all the word crafting, all the writing from the heart can't create a book that's going to sell. While reading books about writing may clarify our writing strengths and weaknesses, it does not guarantee success because it only provides tools for a job that takes both craftsmanship, creativity and talent. Hand me a book about painting, a paint brush, canvas and paint and I will prove my point. I may be able to paint, but I'll never be able to paint well.
This is not meant to be a discouraging post, but rather one that will give you a practical look at a career that takes a myriad of abilities. An author must have a small measure of writing ability, a fair amount of story telling talent, a large amount of self discipline and an even larger amount of determination. Even if a writer sells her very first novel, there is no guarantee a second or third sale will quickly follow. To be a writer, one must be willing to commit to a career that has more ups and downs than the stock market and just as much uncertainty.
As I ready myself to mail in a proposal, I realize anew just how uncertain what I do is. Just because I sold a book yesterday does not mean that what I write will still be relevant today. My goal as a writer is always to press on through defeat, disappointment and disillusion. When I doubt myself, when others doubt me, when I wonder if I really have what it takes to be an author, I return to the root of who I am - a persistent, optimistic story teller who may not sell the next story, but who will keep writing. There is no magic bullet, no quick fix, no short cut. I work one plodding word at a time, one page, one paragraph, one idea. I don't use charts, graphs, or note cards. I do things my way with grim determination and an eye for detail. It works. For me.
The question is...all those writing books and conference workshops aside....what is going to work for you? How will you take your idea and lay it out on paper, craft it into something beautiful, something worth spending late nights reading? How will you take the rules, the devices, the words of wisdom and shape them into something that is uniquely yours?
As a reader and a writer, I applaud the concept of the how-to book. As a pragmatic person not given to believe there's only one way to do any particular thing, I'm doubtful any book can make a writer's path easier. The fact is, all the plotting, all the word crafting, all the writing from the heart can't create a book that's going to sell. While reading books about writing may clarify our writing strengths and weaknesses, it does not guarantee success because it only provides tools for a job that takes both craftsmanship, creativity and talent. Hand me a book about painting, a paint brush, canvas and paint and I will prove my point. I may be able to paint, but I'll never be able to paint well.
This is not meant to be a discouraging post, but rather one that will give you a practical look at a career that takes a myriad of abilities. An author must have a small measure of writing ability, a fair amount of story telling talent, a large amount of self discipline and an even larger amount of determination. Even if a writer sells her very first novel, there is no guarantee a second or third sale will quickly follow. To be a writer, one must be willing to commit to a career that has more ups and downs than the stock market and just as much uncertainty.
As I ready myself to mail in a proposal, I realize anew just how uncertain what I do is. Just because I sold a book yesterday does not mean that what I write will still be relevant today. My goal as a writer is always to press on through defeat, disappointment and disillusion. When I doubt myself, when others doubt me, when I wonder if I really have what it takes to be an author, I return to the root of who I am - a persistent, optimistic story teller who may not sell the next story, but who will keep writing. There is no magic bullet, no quick fix, no short cut. I work one plodding word at a time, one page, one paragraph, one idea. I don't use charts, graphs, or note cards. I do things my way with grim determination and an eye for detail. It works. For me.
The question is...all those writing books and conference workshops aside....what is going to work for you? How will you take your idea and lay it out on paper, craft it into something beautiful, something worth spending late nights reading? How will you take the rules, the devices, the words of wisdom and shape them into something that is uniquely yours?
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Snow and Other Good Reasons to Write
It's April 7th and snowing. I'm not quite sure what to make of it. One thing is for sure, it doesn't feel like spring.
Fortunately, the book I'm working on takes place in winter. It's hard to write warm weather when it's freezing out!
Speaking of which.....
If you've been procrastinating, putting off, perhaps even avoiding here are a few good reasons to write -
It's the Best Kind of Therapy.
Sad? Angry? Feeling a little crazy? Sometimes it's hard to write when we feel emotionally drained or overly excited. Really, though, that's the best time to put words to page. To write compelling characters we must understand the depth of their pain and the height of their joy. Don't be afraid to let your own emotions color the sentences and paragraphs you're crafting. It's easy enough to tone down emotion in our stories, but not so easy to add it in once the story is complete.
Little Steps Bring Big Success.
Any task can seem overwhelming if we look at it in its entirety. Piled-high laundry, overflowing sink, too-tight jeans. If we look at all we have to accomplish, we often feel like we can't accomplish anything. While I tend to be a big-picture person, the big picture is often overwhelming. To keep myself moving forward, I focus on one small task at a time - one load of laundry, one load of dishes, one pound, one paragraph, one page. Sure one page doesn't seem like much, but over the course of a year, I'll have written a novel.
It Isn't the Destination. It's the Journey.
I can't remember who said that, but I agree. If you're putting off writing because you don't think you'll get published, or because you're not sure you know enough about writing, or because you can't (pick your poison) attend conferences, afford a good computer printer, network, enter contests, etc, then you're missing the point of being a writer. The truth is, a real writer writes. Published or not. Certain of success or not. Ready or not. She writes. It's part of her journey and part of her life, a gift knit into the very fiber of her being. The rhythms of words and sounds, the melody of characterization and plot, those are things she learns as she experiments with stories and ideas.
So, on this snowy April day, write. Because you should. Because you have to. Because it's your gift and your burden.
Fortunately, the book I'm working on takes place in winter. It's hard to write warm weather when it's freezing out!
Speaking of which.....
If you've been procrastinating, putting off, perhaps even avoiding here are a few good reasons to write -
It's the Best Kind of Therapy.
Sad? Angry? Feeling a little crazy? Sometimes it's hard to write when we feel emotionally drained or overly excited. Really, though, that's the best time to put words to page. To write compelling characters we must understand the depth of their pain and the height of their joy. Don't be afraid to let your own emotions color the sentences and paragraphs you're crafting. It's easy enough to tone down emotion in our stories, but not so easy to add it in once the story is complete.
Little Steps Bring Big Success.
Any task can seem overwhelming if we look at it in its entirety. Piled-high laundry, overflowing sink, too-tight jeans. If we look at all we have to accomplish, we often feel like we can't accomplish anything. While I tend to be a big-picture person, the big picture is often overwhelming. To keep myself moving forward, I focus on one small task at a time - one load of laundry, one load of dishes, one pound, one paragraph, one page. Sure one page doesn't seem like much, but over the course of a year, I'll have written a novel.
It Isn't the Destination. It's the Journey.
I can't remember who said that, but I agree. If you're putting off writing because you don't think you'll get published, or because you're not sure you know enough about writing, or because you can't (pick your poison) attend conferences, afford a good computer printer, network, enter contests, etc, then you're missing the point of being a writer. The truth is, a real writer writes. Published or not. Certain of success or not. Ready or not. She writes. It's part of her journey and part of her life, a gift knit into the very fiber of her being. The rhythms of words and sounds, the melody of characterization and plot, those are things she learns as she experiments with stories and ideas.
So, on this snowy April day, write. Because you should. Because you have to. Because it's your gift and your burden.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Writing Through the Chaos
It's no secret that I've got four kids home with me all day every day. It's no secret that those children are noisy, active, and interesting kids. They require attention. They require interventions. They require love, affection, meals, clean clothes. Normal stuff for normal kids.
It's also no secret that I'm an author. I write inspirational romantic suspense stories. I write about women who aren't married and who usually do not have kids. I write about peaceful worlds thrown into chaos. These stories do not reflect my life.
My life is a normality of chaos. Of noise and fun, excitement, irritations. Challenges. Blessings. To fit writing into the that takes creativity. If you're having trouble finding the time for your writing you may find these suggestions helpful.
1) prioritize.
What's really important in your life? Full time job? Family? Kids? Clean house? Make a list of what you need to accomplish. Decide which things cannot be neglected. Decide which things can wait. Laundry will be there tomorrow. People may not. If you've got a kid that's struggling, a friend that needs you, a husband who wants to go pick out light fixtures for the office, those are things that shouldn't be put off. If you've got dirty clothes sitting in a hamper...Yeah, that maybe can wait (unless your kids are running naked through the house). Put writing on your list of priorities somewhere between people and laundry. Then make time for it every day.
2)Learn to go with the flow and write in the moment.
Yeah, the kids are loud, but don't make that your excuse for not finishing the manuscript that's been on the burner for two years. It is possible to write when there is noise and interruptions. The key is to be happy about it. IE, don't let yourself focus on the noise. Take advantage of those moments when the kids are bouncing on the bed, or cheerfully playing hide and go seek in the house. Write when there's time. Don't wait for the time to write to come. It won't.
3) Banish the excuse demon.
Because he sure would rather you make excuses than fulfill your calling. Whether it's writing, mothering, being a missionary, getting a new job, buying another house. We can always find excuses to not go in the direction God is leading. Mostly it's because we're afraid. We convince ourselves that tomorrow, or next week, or next month, or next year will be better timing. Remember, though, you might not have tomorrow, next week, next month, or next year. You are only certain of having this moment. Whatever it is you're putting off, do it today. Once you begin to do the jobs as they come to you, you'll find that you've got a lot more time on your hands.
4) Trust
In His timing and His plan. If there really isn't time now to work toward your goals and toward the desire He's put on your heart, spend as much time as you can readying yourself for the moment when the time will be right. Save money so you can stay home, devote yourself to what He's put in your life now, trust that eventually He'll open doors that will allow you to move toward your dreams. Most of all, learn your place in the world and your purpose. After all, God really does have one for you.
It's also no secret that I'm an author. I write inspirational romantic suspense stories. I write about women who aren't married and who usually do not have kids. I write about peaceful worlds thrown into chaos. These stories do not reflect my life.
My life is a normality of chaos. Of noise and fun, excitement, irritations. Challenges. Blessings. To fit writing into the that takes creativity. If you're having trouble finding the time for your writing you may find these suggestions helpful.
1) prioritize.
What's really important in your life? Full time job? Family? Kids? Clean house? Make a list of what you need to accomplish. Decide which things cannot be neglected. Decide which things can wait. Laundry will be there tomorrow. People may not. If you've got a kid that's struggling, a friend that needs you, a husband who wants to go pick out light fixtures for the office, those are things that shouldn't be put off. If you've got dirty clothes sitting in a hamper...Yeah, that maybe can wait (unless your kids are running naked through the house). Put writing on your list of priorities somewhere between people and laundry. Then make time for it every day.
2)Learn to go with the flow and write in the moment.
Yeah, the kids are loud, but don't make that your excuse for not finishing the manuscript that's been on the burner for two years. It is possible to write when there is noise and interruptions. The key is to be happy about it. IE, don't let yourself focus on the noise. Take advantage of those moments when the kids are bouncing on the bed, or cheerfully playing hide and go seek in the house. Write when there's time. Don't wait for the time to write to come. It won't.
3) Banish the excuse demon.
Because he sure would rather you make excuses than fulfill your calling. Whether it's writing, mothering, being a missionary, getting a new job, buying another house. We can always find excuses to not go in the direction God is leading. Mostly it's because we're afraid. We convince ourselves that tomorrow, or next week, or next month, or next year will be better timing. Remember, though, you might not have tomorrow, next week, next month, or next year. You are only certain of having this moment. Whatever it is you're putting off, do it today. Once you begin to do the jobs as they come to you, you'll find that you've got a lot more time on your hands.
4) Trust
In His timing and His plan. If there really isn't time now to work toward your goals and toward the desire He's put on your heart, spend as much time as you can readying yourself for the moment when the time will be right. Save money so you can stay home, devote yourself to what He's put in your life now, trust that eventually He'll open doors that will allow you to move toward your dreams. Most of all, learn your place in the world and your purpose. After all, God really does have one for you.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Exciting Stuff
There are several exciting things going on in my life lately. I'm sure you're not all that interested, but that's okay, I'm going to write about them anyway! :0)
First, I've been dieting. Yes, I know. I've been down this path before. Usually with little success. However, this year has been different. As my weight has crept up, so has my fatigue. You see, I had mono years ago, and haven't had good energy level since. So, extra weight = less energy. Less energy is never good when you're homeschooling four kids and writing books. I won't say cleaning house because my hubby will laugh if I do. Anyhow, less energy is really bad when you don't have high energy levels to start. Thus, the diet. Or should I say - a new way of eating? I think that fits better. I'm down 23lbs. 17 more to go.
And, yes, I feel better.
Second exciting thing in my life - I've been invited to attend the BEA in New York City. http://www.bookexpoamerica.com/App/homepage.cfm?
moduleid=42&appname=288
I don't know if that link will work, but the long and short of it is this - BEA is the largest book expo in North America. There will be tons of book publishers, some really famous authors, other not so famous authors, and me. I'm signing VALLEY OF SHADOWS on June 2 from 12-12:45. I'm really looking forward to it.
Third exciting thing - my husband and I are looking toward adoption to expand our already large family (I'm adding that because we do know that we have a large family). Nothing is final, yet. We've still got a long way to go in this particular journey, so we'll see what happens. As with everything in life, this is in God's hands. We met with the social worker Monday and filled out a bunch of forms. Now we're filling out a bunch more. Thankfully, my youngest sister has been through this before and is going through it again, so she's helping me with some of the detail work. Rodney and I don't know if we'll actually end this journey with a fifth child, but we know that God wants us to at least try. So, here we are, trying.
One thing I've realized as I've gotten older is that not making a decision is the same as making one. If we choose not to pursue things (whether weight loss, book signing, adoption, new jobs, moves, writing books, etc.) we've actually made the choice not to have those things in our lives. Sometimes that's because God has told us clearly not to move forward. Sometimes it's simply because we're afraid. Maybe we're afraid we'll make a mistake and ruin our lives. Maybe we're afraid we'll fail and be disappointed. In the end, I think the real issue is lack of faith. As Christians we believe that God will allow what is good and right in our lives. He sees our lives stretching out - a beautiful tapestry of His making - and He knows what is right and good for it. When we choose to not take a certain path because we're afraid it may not lead where we want, we're taking control out of God's hands and putting it in our own. Sometimes we've just got to step out in faith, knowing that the path we're on may lead to a different place than we first imagined it would, but knowing, too, that wherever we end up will be exactly where He wants us to be.
First, I've been dieting. Yes, I know. I've been down this path before. Usually with little success. However, this year has been different. As my weight has crept up, so has my fatigue. You see, I had mono years ago, and haven't had good energy level since. So, extra weight = less energy. Less energy is never good when you're homeschooling four kids and writing books. I won't say cleaning house because my hubby will laugh if I do. Anyhow, less energy is really bad when you don't have high energy levels to start. Thus, the diet. Or should I say - a new way of eating? I think that fits better. I'm down 23lbs. 17 more to go.
And, yes, I feel better.
Second exciting thing in my life - I've been invited to attend the BEA in New York City. http://www.bookexpoamerica.com/App/homepage.cfm?
moduleid=42&appname=288
I don't know if that link will work, but the long and short of it is this - BEA is the largest book expo in North America. There will be tons of book publishers, some really famous authors, other not so famous authors, and me. I'm signing VALLEY OF SHADOWS on June 2 from 12-12:45. I'm really looking forward to it.
Third exciting thing - my husband and I are looking toward adoption to expand our already large family (I'm adding that because we do know that we have a large family). Nothing is final, yet. We've still got a long way to go in this particular journey, so we'll see what happens. As with everything in life, this is in God's hands. We met with the social worker Monday and filled out a bunch of forms. Now we're filling out a bunch more. Thankfully, my youngest sister has been through this before and is going through it again, so she's helping me with some of the detail work. Rodney and I don't know if we'll actually end this journey with a fifth child, but we know that God wants us to at least try. So, here we are, trying.
One thing I've realized as I've gotten older is that not making a decision is the same as making one. If we choose not to pursue things (whether weight loss, book signing, adoption, new jobs, moves, writing books, etc.) we've actually made the choice not to have those things in our lives. Sometimes that's because God has told us clearly not to move forward. Sometimes it's simply because we're afraid. Maybe we're afraid we'll make a mistake and ruin our lives. Maybe we're afraid we'll fail and be disappointed. In the end, I think the real issue is lack of faith. As Christians we believe that God will allow what is good and right in our lives. He sees our lives stretching out - a beautiful tapestry of His making - and He knows what is right and good for it. When we choose to not take a certain path because we're afraid it may not lead where we want, we're taking control out of God's hands and putting it in our own. Sometimes we've just got to step out in faith, knowing that the path we're on may lead to a different place than we first imagined it would, but knowing, too, that wherever we end up will be exactly where He wants us to be.
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
The Truth About Being An Author
It's hard work.
And when you're a mom, a wife, a husband, a father, and/or working another full time job it is even more difficult. Fatigue and stress kill creative energy in much the same way as those bleach cleaning products kill germs - 99.9% gone. Sure there's a glimmer of something there, but it's doubtful there's enough to catch.
Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad life. As matter of fact, it's a great life. But it's work. The fact that we do it home, the fact that we do it on our own schedule, the fact that our bosses aren't standing over our shoulder telling us what do doesn't negate the facts. Work is work. Whether we love it or hate it. Whether we feel it's our calling or it's just something we chanced into. Work. Tedious sometimes. Frustrating sometimes. Fulfilling sometimes.
Why am I saying this?
I've heard people say that writing is easy for them, that they love it so much they'd do it all day, that writing is their calling and God just gives them the words to put on the page. I think that's wonderful, but I think they're the minority.
Most of us struggle sometimes. So, if you're struggling to finish, to polish, or to get that characterization just right, rest assured, I'm sitting at my computer doing the same. You're not alone in your journey and you're not alone in hitting roadblocks and brick walls. Don't let frustration and failure (either your idea that you've failed, or rejection from editors or agents) get in the way of success. Think of writing as hard work. Combine it with passion, drive, and creativity. Those four things together are the beginning of success in any area of our lives.
And when you're a mom, a wife, a husband, a father, and/or working another full time job it is even more difficult. Fatigue and stress kill creative energy in much the same way as those bleach cleaning products kill germs - 99.9% gone. Sure there's a glimmer of something there, but it's doubtful there's enough to catch.
Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad life. As matter of fact, it's a great life. But it's work. The fact that we do it home, the fact that we do it on our own schedule, the fact that our bosses aren't standing over our shoulder telling us what do doesn't negate the facts. Work is work. Whether we love it or hate it. Whether we feel it's our calling or it's just something we chanced into. Work. Tedious sometimes. Frustrating sometimes. Fulfilling sometimes.
Why am I saying this?
I've heard people say that writing is easy for them, that they love it so much they'd do it all day, that writing is their calling and God just gives them the words to put on the page. I think that's wonderful, but I think they're the minority.
Most of us struggle sometimes. So, if you're struggling to finish, to polish, or to get that characterization just right, rest assured, I'm sitting at my computer doing the same. You're not alone in your journey and you're not alone in hitting roadblocks and brick walls. Don't let frustration and failure (either your idea that you've failed, or rejection from editors or agents) get in the way of success. Think of writing as hard work. Combine it with passion, drive, and creativity. Those four things together are the beginning of success in any area of our lives.
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Welcome to the World
Over 130 million babies are born each year. This year, Jeremiah Jacob is among them. Poor little tyke was wrestled into the world yesterday evening. Not a moment too soon for my sister. Though I think Jeremiah might have preferred his previous home. That's grandkid number sixteen for my parents. Each with his or her own personality and temperament. Funny how different and how alike people who are related can be. Cousins often exhibit each other's gestures and facial expressions more so than siblings do. When they're babies they seem most connect to the family - little blank slates whose features and expressions can be attributed to a sister, a mother, a grandparent. Of course, they are not blank slates. They are individuals, vitally connected and yet completely separate from family. As they grow, their individuality becomes apparent, their uniqueness more defined.
The same is true of our characters. When we begin to write a story, the hero or heroine may seem almost cookie-cutterish, perhaps modeled off of someone we know, or another character we've created. Over time, as the story unfolds and this character's life unfolds with it, s/he becomes an individual, unique and well-defined.
At least that's what's supposed to happen.
It's important that in trying to create real characters we don't create caricatures. Over-blown, over-drawn, cartoonish figures who react and over react to the point that they are (at best) unbelievable or (at worst) unlikable.
I know I've blogged about characterization before, but there is no story without the solid backbone of good characters. Plot and writing skills aside, characterization is what drives your story and makes your readers want to keep right on reading.
The same is true of our characters. When we begin to write a story, the hero or heroine may seem almost cookie-cutterish, perhaps modeled off of someone we know, or another character we've created. Over time, as the story unfolds and this character's life unfolds with it, s/he becomes an individual, unique and well-defined.
At least that's what's supposed to happen.
It's important that in trying to create real characters we don't create caricatures. Over-blown, over-drawn, cartoonish figures who react and over react to the point that they are (at best) unbelievable or (at worst) unlikable.
I know I've blogged about characterization before, but there is no story without the solid backbone of good characters. Plot and writing skills aside, characterization is what drives your story and makes your readers want to keep right on reading.
Monday, February 05, 2007
Procrastination and Other Things That Keep Me From Writing
I love writing. I really do. Creating stories and characters, crafting paragraphs and sentences. Those are things I find a lot of pleasure in.
The funny thing is, when push comes to shove and I need to sit down and write, I can always think of twenty other things that need doing RIGHT NOW.
For example - windows. Ask my husband about the last time I actually cleaned the outside of our windows and he'll probably laugh. For good reason. I don't know if I've ever cleaned the outside of the windows. Today, when the temperature is cold enough to freeze the Windex on the glass, I pulled in those wonderful windows and shined them up (which was hard to do with the window cleaner actually frozen). I also did (in no particular order) - a load of laundry (stuffed animals no less....gotta get rid of those dust mites), the wall near my steps (gotta get rid of those fingerprints), fifteen minutes of color comparison (during which time I contemplated paint for our rec room), seven minutes staring in the fridge thinking about cleaning it out (which I did not do).
Yes, friends, I am the queen of procrastination.
The problem is, when you get to the place I'm in and have editors waiting for those words you sweat and ponder over, it doesn't pay to procrastinate. And I mean that literally. The sooner you finish and move onto something else, the more lucrative your writing career will be.
So, if you're in the habit of procrastinating, now is as good a time as any to break it. Set your goals. Stick to them.
And don't clean your windows when it's 20 degrees outside.
The funny thing is, when push comes to shove and I need to sit down and write, I can always think of twenty other things that need doing RIGHT NOW.
For example - windows. Ask my husband about the last time I actually cleaned the outside of our windows and he'll probably laugh. For good reason. I don't know if I've ever cleaned the outside of the windows. Today, when the temperature is cold enough to freeze the Windex on the glass, I pulled in those wonderful windows and shined them up (which was hard to do with the window cleaner actually frozen). I also did (in no particular order) - a load of laundry (stuffed animals no less....gotta get rid of those dust mites), the wall near my steps (gotta get rid of those fingerprints), fifteen minutes of color comparison (during which time I contemplated paint for our rec room), seven minutes staring in the fridge thinking about cleaning it out (which I did not do).
Yes, friends, I am the queen of procrastination.
The problem is, when you get to the place I'm in and have editors waiting for those words you sweat and ponder over, it doesn't pay to procrastinate. And I mean that literally. The sooner you finish and move onto something else, the more lucrative your writing career will be.
So, if you're in the habit of procrastinating, now is as good a time as any to break it. Set your goals. Stick to them.
And don't clean your windows when it's 20 degrees outside.
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Writer's Woe - A Poem
My writing stinks,
My writing's horrid,
It lacks passion,
It isn't torrid.
It's like this poem,
Blah and yucky,
Muddy, Moldy,
and quiet Mucky.
Do worse if you can,
I dare you,
I do,
And I'll send a copy of
Little Girl Lost to you.
How's that for bad poetry.
Top it and I really will send you a copy of LITTLE GIRL LOST.
My writing's horrid,
It lacks passion,
It isn't torrid.
It's like this poem,
Blah and yucky,
Muddy, Moldy,
and quiet Mucky.
Do worse if you can,
I dare you,
I do,
And I'll send a copy of
Little Girl Lost to you.
How's that for bad poetry.
Top it and I really will send you a copy of LITTLE GIRL LOST.
Friday, February 02, 2007
Why I Really, Truly, Really Stink at Writing
Or.....Even authors can be in pits of despair of their work.
It may seem that you're the only one looking at those labored over word-filled pages and wondering- "Did I really write this crap?"
Rest assured, friends, you are NOT alone.
I'm right there with you, reading back over the proposal I sent in a month ago and wondering....Why did I write that? What was I thinking? Could it be any worse?
I suppose it could be worse. However it could also be a whole lot better. Take for example sentence one page two - She'd left the light on.
How basic, how inane could it get? You'd think a woman who's got seven books under her belt would have a little more upmh in her writing. But no....She'd left the light on. Why don't I just narrate the entire story?...She'd left the light on. She saw a shadow out of the corner of her eye. She screamed. She jumped. She punched him in the eye with the carrot she'd been munching. He fell, the carrot protruding from his pupil perilously.
Yep, that would go over really well with my editors and my readers.
Here's the thing, though, I can throw in the towel because I am obviously not cut out to be an author. Or I can keep fighting for the right words, keep working toward that always elusive perfection, keep trusting that my imperfections can still be used for Him. Not just in writing, in life.
Out of the pit and back to the work.
His blessings on you today!
It may seem that you're the only one looking at those labored over word-filled pages and wondering- "Did I really write this crap?"
Rest assured, friends, you are NOT alone.
I'm right there with you, reading back over the proposal I sent in a month ago and wondering....Why did I write that? What was I thinking? Could it be any worse?
I suppose it could be worse. However it could also be a whole lot better. Take for example sentence one page two - She'd left the light on.
How basic, how inane could it get? You'd think a woman who's got seven books under her belt would have a little more upmh in her writing. But no....She'd left the light on. Why don't I just narrate the entire story?...She'd left the light on. She saw a shadow out of the corner of her eye. She screamed. She jumped. She punched him in the eye with the carrot she'd been munching. He fell, the carrot protruding from his pupil perilously.
Yep, that would go over really well with my editors and my readers.
Here's the thing, though, I can throw in the towel because I am obviously not cut out to be an author. Or I can keep fighting for the right words, keep working toward that always elusive perfection, keep trusting that my imperfections can still be used for Him. Not just in writing, in life.
Out of the pit and back to the work.
His blessings on you today!
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Do You Really Want to Know?
According to my husband, I need to get back in here and do some blogging. Seeing as how it has been months since I've blogged, I guess he's right.
What do I have to say?
Absolutely nothing.
Except this. If you have a deadline for sometime in January, do not plan a babyshower for November, commit to working a gymnastic meet in December, sign your kids up for piano recitals in Nov, Dec, Jan, get volunteered (and stupidly agree) to run the children's choir for the Christmas Cantata, teach Sunday School, decide you really have to keep homeschooling through most of the vacation, and tell your agent that yes, you can write a continuity that has a proposal due in December.
If you do all those things, do NOT get sick. Because if you do, you're going to get really behind. Once you get behind you're going to get sick again trying to catch up. Which will make you more behind.
Good news is, eventually you will catch up and get well.
However, your poor house will be the worse for it.
Along with this blog, I'm blogging on Eharlequin this week. We're discussing my new release, LITTLE GIRL LOST. Come visit me there and you'll learn lots about The Secret of Stoneley continuity. Read my or Lenora's book (which is first in the series)and find clues to the story's mystery and you'll win a signed copy of my book.
http://community.eharlequin.com/webx?14@140.3mTSapVM0WM.124586@.4a83f277
Tomorrow: Why I Really, Truly, Really Stink at Writing.
What do I have to say?
Absolutely nothing.
Except this. If you have a deadline for sometime in January, do not plan a babyshower for November, commit to working a gymnastic meet in December, sign your kids up for piano recitals in Nov, Dec, Jan, get volunteered (and stupidly agree) to run the children's choir for the Christmas Cantata, teach Sunday School, decide you really have to keep homeschooling through most of the vacation, and tell your agent that yes, you can write a continuity that has a proposal due in December.
If you do all those things, do NOT get sick. Because if you do, you're going to get really behind. Once you get behind you're going to get sick again trying to catch up. Which will make you more behind.
Good news is, eventually you will catch up and get well.
However, your poor house will be the worse for it.
Along with this blog, I'm blogging on Eharlequin this week. We're discussing my new release, LITTLE GIRL LOST. Come visit me there and you'll learn lots about The Secret of Stoneley continuity. Read my or Lenora's book (which is first in the series)and find clues to the story's mystery and you'll win a signed copy of my book.
http://community.eharlequin.com/webx?14@140.3mTSapVM0WM.124586@.4a83f277
Tomorrow: Why I Really, Truly, Really Stink at Writing.
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