How many of you have heard of the Hero’s Journey? And how many of you have made much sense of it?
Yup, that’s about how it goes for everyone. I’m not a particularly deep cookie sheet, so it took me a bit of time to understand how the Hero’s Journey could change my writing. Did it only apply to heroes? What could it really do for me? And why, sweet lord, was everyone talking about it?
Between you and me, it’s because it’s very worth talking about. (And reading. If you get a chance, pick up the book “The Writer’s Journey” by Christopher Vogler. Brilliant book that made it simpler for this cookie sheet to make some better cookies!)
And also between you and me, I’m going to be dedicating my TTT for the next several weeks to help you break it down and see if it helps all of us with our WIPS!
The Hero’s Journey has many stages that can help you develop your character arcs, arrange your story into acts and help you build a pace. The most important way thing to remember is that for your characters, in their own minds, they are their own hero. So, you can use this Journey to guide your heroes, heroines, villains and even secondary characters.
As we work our way though this series, I will be using quotes from the book listed above to ask questions and give guide instructions. And, of course, I’ll be adding my own hopefully helpful tips and explanations.
The very first stage of the Hero’s Journey is what is commonly called “The Ordinary World”. This is because you always want to show where the hero is from, what is the world as he knows it.
Things are about to happen that will send your hero on an adventure, be it a love adventure, a physical adventure or a mystery adventure. Something will happen to the hero in question to change them from the world they knew to an experience they’ve never known, possibly even never wanted. Ultimately, this adventure is going to change them. A hero that has not changed at the end of your book simply has not finished their adventure. You cannot come out of an adventure without becoming different in some way.
In order for your reader to understand how drastic those changes are, you need to first show them where the hero feels comfortable, the world they know. Then begin working your way through the functions of the Ordinary World--afterall, we’re showing it for a reason :)--and try to incorporate these within your first chapter.
• Raise The Dramatic Question: Give your hero something for the reader to be concerned about. "Will she achieve the goal, overcome flaw, learn lesson needing learned? Dramatic questions hook audience & involve them with the emotions of the character."
This section is where you introduce the Internal and External Conflicts, usually they are what create your Dramatic Question. Don’t be afraid to simply lay out what your hero’s problems are. But how do you go about creating the question? Here’s some more functions to look for to see if you’re getting enough done at the very beginning of your story.
• Make An Entrance: When you first introduce your hero, they should be seen in a way that best shows who the character is, deep down, in the world as they know it. "The first action should be a model of the hero's characteristic attitude & future probs or solution that will result. The 1st behavior should define & reveal character, unless intent is to mislead & conceal true nature.”
What this means is that you should show the hero the way you want the reader to think of him or her. Create a first impression. Remember the movie “Tombstone”? The first time we see Wyatt Earp, he’s happy and looking pleased with himself...until he sees a workman whipping a horse. He takes the whip in hand and wallops the workman saying, “Hurts, doesn’t it?” Immediately we are shown that he’s a man who is excited about his future, fair, if rough, and decent at his core. We’re going to need that impression to sustain us as he begins doing things that aren’t so fair and decent, and it does it’s job. We are now interested enough to follow him whereever he leads, convinced of his inner goodness.
• Introducing The Hero: Like a social intro, establish a bond between reader & hero, commonalities so they can relate to him.
Again, using a movie reference, when you introduce a character, you’ll want to immediately prove to your reader that we’re following someone they’d like to make friends with. The character can be cranky, quirky, goofy or even rude, but they should have something a reader and empathize with. “Terms Of Endearment” begins with the heroine deathly concerned that her child isn’t safe in her crib, filled with first mother anxiety. We relate to that urge to protect, that sense that if we stay by their bed all night long, we can keep the child safe and alive. We probably wouldn’t pinch the kid until she cries and leave satisfied, but the writer’s job was already done. We related.
Establish What's At Stake: What does the hero stand to gain or lose in the adventure?
This is a highly important question. If they just go running around for the hell of it, why do we care? You’d think they were idiots and not waste your time. Most things in life have a price. Every story you ever read is simply a tale of what price people are willing to pay for their heart’s desire. Show what a hero can lose if they take the adventure and here’s a very special tip--make sure it’s outweighed by what they can gain. Heavily outweighed.
There are also certain facts that are needed to be shown in The Ordinary World. Information you must impart with your reader.
1) Backstory & Exposition: Backstory: facts that explain what got the hero HERE. Exposition: graceful--preferably slow--revelation of the back story and pertinent plot facts; explanation of all aspects of plot pressures.
Backstory can be a few lines or even a flashback. I’m of the “few lines” school of thought myself, but what’s important is why your hero feels this Ordinary World is home. Show us why they have a level of comfort here. Now, by comfort, I don’t mean that Cinderella particularly enjoys sleeping in the fireplace. I mean, she knows the ins and outs of her world. She knows that if she wakes up early and cleans all day long, she stands a pretty good chance of not getting beaten. Why wouldn’t she leave that world at the drop of a hat? Because she doesn’t know that doing everything she’s told will increase her odds of getting through each day if she goes anywhere else. A rat in a trap may not want to die, but it knows the current danger. Setting it free can get you bitten because you are the Unknown and nothing in the world is scarier than that.
2) Theme: State it HERE. "If you had to boil down it's essence in a single word or phrase, what would it be?"--ie: "Love conquers All"
Ever write a thesis in your high school essays? That line you’re trying to prove at the bottom of your first paragraph? Something in there that says “This is the way things are” and you go on to present concrete details that show you’re right? Believe it or not, you should have one for your story. It doesn’t have to be epic, but it can be the thread you come back to when you can’t find your center and your characters seem to be aimlessly wandering around. Find a way to place what you’d like to show your reader somewhere early in your book. First chapter, most preferably. In fact, if you can fit all of this in chapter one, you’re definitely on the right page.
Next Week: The Call To Adventure!
Monday, February 27, 2006
Morning Report!
Well, a lot of stuff I wanted to get done on the weekend didn't get done...but other, more valuable things did, so that's okay. One of those things was finally hanging some stuff up that didn't fit in my closet. This was achieved by completely rearranging my closet. And a good portion of my bedroom. And I'm not done.
Other things that got done were some cross-platform fixing of my website. Rae--helpful PC spy for me--informed me that my grand attempt at revamping my site had failed miserably on PC. Pet's computer arrived and we were able to take a look. It should now work reasonably well for all viewers. Interestingly, I learned that on a PC, you see Yahoo ads when you go to my site (thus the whole "free" site aspect). I didn't know about that as my Mac doesn't see them, lol. But don't worry, resizing shouldn't be a problem there, either, anymore. Sooner or later, I will master the whole em line sizing and so on, but until then, HTML will have to handle it. It's not exactly perfect on all points for PCs, nor is it exactly perfect for Macs, but as long as it's slightly--but equally flawed--and still useable, lol, it wiill work for now. I also created an author newsletter for my future releases. There's nothing to it at this point, but I'm hoping soon I can use it to let people know when the book will be out and so on. It's another important step is all. :)
Most importantly, the taxes were completed, filed and accepted. PHEW! I figure you can only go over them so many times before admitting that it's all as done and complete and correct as you can do it. I'm just glad it's out of the way. :) Now I can concentrate on other things, like writing, work and putting my house together. It feels like a good week for me, so I'm going to get done what I can and try not to sweat the small stuff...like that load of laundry I never quite get done. And dammit, I'm vacuuming today and no one is going to stop me!
Many smooches!
Dee
Other things that got done were some cross-platform fixing of my website. Rae--helpful PC spy for me--informed me that my grand attempt at revamping my site had failed miserably on PC. Pet's computer arrived and we were able to take a look. It should now work reasonably well for all viewers. Interestingly, I learned that on a PC, you see Yahoo ads when you go to my site (thus the whole "free" site aspect). I didn't know about that as my Mac doesn't see them, lol. But don't worry, resizing shouldn't be a problem there, either, anymore. Sooner or later, I will master the whole em line sizing and so on, but until then, HTML will have to handle it. It's not exactly perfect on all points for PCs, nor is it exactly perfect for Macs, but as long as it's slightly--but equally flawed--and still useable, lol, it wiill work for now. I also created an author newsletter for my future releases. There's nothing to it at this point, but I'm hoping soon I can use it to let people know when the book will be out and so on. It's another important step is all. :)
Most importantly, the taxes were completed, filed and accepted. PHEW! I figure you can only go over them so many times before admitting that it's all as done and complete and correct as you can do it. I'm just glad it's out of the way. :) Now I can concentrate on other things, like writing, work and putting my house together. It feels like a good week for me, so I'm going to get done what I can and try not to sweat the small stuff...like that load of laundry I never quite get done. And dammit, I'm vacuuming today and no one is going to stop me!
Many smooches!
Dee
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Holy Conflict, Batman!
So, late last night, my CP and I were considering what was wrong with my current WIP. Basically, it's boring as hell. I mean, I like everyone. And there's a definite pull. But the current plot is not holding up the fat ass on this puppy, and I say that with love. It's just not doing it. If ever a book needed and ass bra, this is it.
Thankfully, my CP had one or two handy and we're back in business. (You know, when I stop procrastinating and actually get back to working on it.) Alas, the more I work on it, the more I realize that this book is really a Single Title. Not an epic or anything, but there is a lot of weaving to be done and all of it actually DOES need to be in there, and 60k just ain't going to cut it. This is a Single Title.
But I'm not ready!
At least, I'm not sure I am. Most of my story ideas are big like this, but--as I lamented to another CP--I haven't written a big book in years. Not one that made any sense, anyway. When I was a kid and writing was easy (you know, when I didn't know what the hell I was doing as opposed to now, when I REALLY don't know what the hell I'm doing). And I admit it, I'm scared. Single Titles are a dream I felt I had to grow into and I've been writing for a really damn long time, always telling myself I'm not ready. But, this puppy is contracted and the story has to go this way. So, ready or not, here I come.
BUT, before I do, I'm going to post the conversation with Lorie here for a good laugh and a little encouragement. Read it through, because it's funny, and see if you can take on the challenge at the bottom!
Dee says: I stayed up really late last night with X trying to figure out how to fix Sky's pacing. Dumb-ass has gone and made himself more Single Title than I expected. Wondering if I shouldn't go for the whole shebang
Lorie says: why not?
Dee says: well, I've never written a full size single title. At least, not on purpose. My endless childhood tomes really don't count, they had no craft.
Lorie says: right, although, you know, following the craft rules too closely can lead to lessening of voice
Dee says: lol, these were bad. When I say craft, I mean they were devoid of any kind of skill, possibly even talent, lol, they were BAD
Lorie says: ah
Dee says: Perfect example, my book "Faith": epic tale of a woman who escapes her sociopathic husband only to bring death whereever she hides as he follows her. oh, and every man who meets her falls in love with her
Lorie says: which knowing what you know now you could actually work with without making it all .. formula
Dee says: did I mention she's just short of catatonic for the first part of the story?
Lorie says: lol
Dee says: oh, lol, this has just begun! that part would almost make sense
Lorie says: lol
Dee says: so, her lawyer, who was the first born "legitimate" son of a massively rich man, decides to take her to his father's mansion to hide and recover. she doesn't really do more than blink a few times here
Lorie says: lol
Dee says: when she arrives, she's now thrown into the mix of the lawyer's convoluted family situation
Lorie says: lol of course
Dee says: Dad, from Ireland, apparently was torn from who true love--who is now his maid--and married a harridan of his father's choosing. oh, and she has a gorgeous son of her own...by that Dad, who, upon seeing Catatonic Chick, claims her for his own
Lorie says: lol, a real web huh
Dee says: and begins another battle with lawyer dude--who's ex-wife, btw, once had an affair with Hot Illegitimate, Oh, and did you know she's pregnant? With a heart condition! Oh MY!
Lorie says: lol, holy conflict batman!
Dee says: Catatonic Chick awakens under loving ministrations of Hot Illegitimate's warm brogue and rejects overtures of Lawyer Dude, which displeases Evil Harridan, who connects (Miraculously) with Evil Socio Hubby to make a deal to get back at Catatonic Chick
Lorie says: catatonic chick alone is too much sometimes... although, hot illegitamte's warm brogue stirs interest
Dee says: I'm pretty sure Evil Hubby kills Evil Harridan (and she LIKES it!) before attacking Hot Illegitimate, who has finally come to terms with Lawyer dude after Ho-Wife dies giving birth to Lawyer-Dude's baby (despite having aborted Hot Illegitimate's)
Dee says: I think, right about then, Catatonic Chick wakes up and finally connects with her hidden Weather Control abilities and runs out to the cliffs to draw Evil Hubby to his death by hitting him with lightening and tossing him into the sea far, far, far below where his body is never recovered and though she marries Hot Illegitimate (who's parents finally marry after Evil Harridan is dead), she never stops looking over her shoulder, sure that someone is watching...and waiting...
Lorie says: lol of course, lawyer dude
Dee says: oh, Lawyer Dude raises his daughter in peace--he never gets any ever again
Lorie says: lol
Dee says: I forgot what happens to "Completely Unnecessary and Oblivious" Sister, though
Lorie says: lol
Dee says: I'm pretty sure she gets raped and tries to steal Catatonic Chick's schtick
Dee says: the bitch
Lorie says: lol
Dee says: I dare anyone to have MORE conflict and less plot than THAT book!
Now, Lorie says she had a horrid Sci-Fi that could rival the terrifying cheesy smell of the above stinker. Bring me your worst, your smelliest, your over-erotic, your under-plot developed! See who might have the worst possible, actually somewhat written book hiding under their bed, from any age and I will offer you a cool graphic for your blog to tout as Queen Of Cheese for a Week!
Thankfully, my CP had one or two handy and we're back in business. (You know, when I stop procrastinating and actually get back to working on it.) Alas, the more I work on it, the more I realize that this book is really a Single Title. Not an epic or anything, but there is a lot of weaving to be done and all of it actually DOES need to be in there, and 60k just ain't going to cut it. This is a Single Title.
But I'm not ready!
At least, I'm not sure I am. Most of my story ideas are big like this, but--as I lamented to another CP--I haven't written a big book in years. Not one that made any sense, anyway. When I was a kid and writing was easy (you know, when I didn't know what the hell I was doing as opposed to now, when I REALLY don't know what the hell I'm doing). And I admit it, I'm scared. Single Titles are a dream I felt I had to grow into and I've been writing for a really damn long time, always telling myself I'm not ready. But, this puppy is contracted and the story has to go this way. So, ready or not, here I come.
BUT, before I do, I'm going to post the conversation with Lorie here for a good laugh and a little encouragement. Read it through, because it's funny, and see if you can take on the challenge at the bottom!
Dee says: I stayed up really late last night with X trying to figure out how to fix Sky's pacing. Dumb-ass has gone and made himself more Single Title than I expected. Wondering if I shouldn't go for the whole shebang
Lorie says: why not?
Dee says: well, I've never written a full size single title. At least, not on purpose. My endless childhood tomes really don't count, they had no craft.
Lorie says: right, although, you know, following the craft rules too closely can lead to lessening of voice
Dee says: lol, these were bad. When I say craft, I mean they were devoid of any kind of skill, possibly even talent, lol, they were BAD
Lorie says: ah
Dee says: Perfect example, my book "Faith": epic tale of a woman who escapes her sociopathic husband only to bring death whereever she hides as he follows her. oh, and every man who meets her falls in love with her
Lorie says: which knowing what you know now you could actually work with without making it all .. formula
Dee says: did I mention she's just short of catatonic for the first part of the story?
Lorie says: lol
Dee says: oh, lol, this has just begun! that part would almost make sense
Lorie says: lol
Dee says: so, her lawyer, who was the first born "legitimate" son of a massively rich man, decides to take her to his father's mansion to hide and recover. she doesn't really do more than blink a few times here
Lorie says: lol
Dee says: when she arrives, she's now thrown into the mix of the lawyer's convoluted family situation
Lorie says: lol of course
Dee says: Dad, from Ireland, apparently was torn from who true love--who is now his maid--and married a harridan of his father's choosing. oh, and she has a gorgeous son of her own...by that Dad, who, upon seeing Catatonic Chick, claims her for his own
Lorie says: lol, a real web huh
Dee says: and begins another battle with lawyer dude--who's ex-wife, btw, once had an affair with Hot Illegitimate, Oh, and did you know she's pregnant? With a heart condition! Oh MY!
Lorie says: lol, holy conflict batman!
Dee says: Catatonic Chick awakens under loving ministrations of Hot Illegitimate's warm brogue and rejects overtures of Lawyer Dude, which displeases Evil Harridan, who connects (Miraculously) with Evil Socio Hubby to make a deal to get back at Catatonic Chick
Lorie says: catatonic chick alone is too much sometimes... although, hot illegitamte's warm brogue stirs interest
Dee says: I'm pretty sure Evil Hubby kills Evil Harridan (and she LIKES it!) before attacking Hot Illegitimate, who has finally come to terms with Lawyer dude after Ho-Wife dies giving birth to Lawyer-Dude's baby (despite having aborted Hot Illegitimate's)
Dee says: I think, right about then, Catatonic Chick wakes up and finally connects with her hidden Weather Control abilities and runs out to the cliffs to draw Evil Hubby to his death by hitting him with lightening and tossing him into the sea far, far, far below where his body is never recovered and though she marries Hot Illegitimate (who's parents finally marry after Evil Harridan is dead), she never stops looking over her shoulder, sure that someone is watching...and waiting...
Lorie says: lol of course, lawyer dude
Dee says: oh, Lawyer Dude raises his daughter in peace--he never gets any ever again
Lorie says: lol
Dee says: I forgot what happens to "Completely Unnecessary and Oblivious" Sister, though
Lorie says: lol
Dee says: I'm pretty sure she gets raped and tries to steal Catatonic Chick's schtick
Dee says: the bitch
Lorie says: lol
Dee says: I dare anyone to have MORE conflict and less plot than THAT book!
Now, Lorie says she had a horrid Sci-Fi that could rival the terrifying cheesy smell of the above stinker. Bring me your worst, your smelliest, your over-erotic, your under-plot developed! See who might have the worst possible, actually somewhat written book hiding under their bed, from any age and I will offer you a cool graphic for your blog to tout as Queen Of Cheese for a Week!
Friday, February 24, 2006
To Call 911...or not...
So, I have this slightly annoying neighbor. I've never seen him. I have no idea what he looks like or which front door is his. I have no idea what his name is. And I doubt I ever will. But still, he features in today's blog because of a very interesting event last night.
So, it's late. Just about to go to bed, check my email. Remember my boss, the one with the funny jokes? Well, he sent me to a maze. I like puzzles and so I'm thinking, okay, I'll do that real quick and go to sleep. You're supposed to manuever the maze and not touch the walls. I get through almost all the way through the third page. I'm about to make it, but I touch...
AND BAM!!
Full screen image of The Exorcist screaming like a banshee.
Now, Linda Blair doesn't scare me. But I didn't realize my laptop had mysteriously been pushed to full volume. And I didn't realize it was Linda Blair. I thought it was the wrinkly witch from The Ring, who incidentally DOES scare the shit out of me. So, of course, I scream. LOUD. I jump back so hard I nearly knocked hubby off the bed, which sets him yelling, "OMG, what's wrong? What happened? What's wrong with the baby?" (Moo reverts to the "baby" when hubby is half asleep) I hit the screen on my laptop and I'm desperately trying to hit Command+Q to quit and shut the program down. Finally get it done and by this time there has been at least three minutes of seriously loud screaming.
Note my neighbor, outside my window, who is loudly on the phone after midnight.
Does he ask if everyone is okay? Does he come over to knock on the door? Does he call 911 to report mysterious screams in the night followed by eerie silence?
Nope.
He waits ten minutes to make sure I'm not going to disturb his phone call again,then gets back to business.
There's not a lot of point to this post, lol, but seriously, wouldn't YOU at least call out to make sure people don't need help? I mean, he HAS a phone.
Or is it just me?
So, it's late. Just about to go to bed, check my email. Remember my boss, the one with the funny jokes? Well, he sent me to a maze. I like puzzles and so I'm thinking, okay, I'll do that real quick and go to sleep. You're supposed to manuever the maze and not touch the walls. I get through almost all the way through the third page. I'm about to make it, but I touch...
AND BAM!!
Full screen image of The Exorcist screaming like a banshee.
Now, Linda Blair doesn't scare me. But I didn't realize my laptop had mysteriously been pushed to full volume. And I didn't realize it was Linda Blair. I thought it was the wrinkly witch from The Ring, who incidentally DOES scare the shit out of me. So, of course, I scream. LOUD. I jump back so hard I nearly knocked hubby off the bed, which sets him yelling, "OMG, what's wrong? What happened? What's wrong with the baby?" (Moo reverts to the "baby" when hubby is half asleep) I hit the screen on my laptop and I'm desperately trying to hit Command+Q to quit and shut the program down. Finally get it done and by this time there has been at least three minutes of seriously loud screaming.
Note my neighbor, outside my window, who is loudly on the phone after midnight.
Does he ask if everyone is okay? Does he come over to knock on the door? Does he call 911 to report mysterious screams in the night followed by eerie silence?
Nope.
He waits ten minutes to make sure I'm not going to disturb his phone call again,then gets back to business.
There's not a lot of point to this post, lol, but seriously, wouldn't YOU at least call out to make sure people don't need help? I mean, he HAS a phone.
Or is it just me?
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Husbands
I think part of the reason I enjoy writing romance is because my husband makes such a great character. He's manly, he's artistic, he's caring, occasionally he's thick as a brick. He's funny and he's romantic. He's annoying. He's cute. I love his feet, not because they're pretty, but because they have so much personality. I love how he cooks and that he doesn't mind that I snitch off his plate--he makes extra because he knows I will. I love when he knows to hold me. I don't love that sometimes he doesn't. He's a very real guy with layers and problems and issues. I think a lot of my heroes are based on him, or at least, the reality of him.
I wonder if he were not so good to me if I would be so enamored of romance. Would I be bitter because I hadn't found some fairy-tale guy who can overcome all with the flick of a page? Or would I just be lonely looking for one? I know for a fact I wouldn't be writing them--my hubby is the one responsible for my continued writing and submitting. I never would have bothered without him. (That's not romantic, he was yelling at the time, lol.)
I know single women write romance. Shoot, I know men write romance. But I do often wonder if my husband makes my heroes work out because he provides a level of reality that I have to include. I have no illusions of men without a rough edge or two. Couldn't write one if I wanted to. And I really don't.
So the question of the day is mostly this: Do the men in your life shape your imaginary heroes too?
I wonder if he were not so good to me if I would be so enamored of romance. Would I be bitter because I hadn't found some fairy-tale guy who can overcome all with the flick of a page? Or would I just be lonely looking for one? I know for a fact I wouldn't be writing them--my hubby is the one responsible for my continued writing and submitting. I never would have bothered without him. (That's not romantic, he was yelling at the time, lol.)
I know single women write romance. Shoot, I know men write romance. But I do often wonder if my husband makes my heroes work out because he provides a level of reality that I have to include. I have no illusions of men without a rough edge or two. Couldn't write one if I wanted to. And I really don't.
So the question of the day is mostly this: Do the men in your life shape your imaginary heroes too?
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Every Now & Then...
Something goes right with the world!
Go check in on Larissa Ione and congratulate her! Girlfriend just sold to Red Sage's "Secrets" series!!! Way To Go, Larissa!
EDITED:
Okay, I'm lazy. One, I don't want to blog again, but more importantly, I don't want to push Larissa's great news down the blog page or it'll get missed. That one sounds highly noble, so I'll stick with that. :) (But seriously, SOOOO happy for Larissa!)
So, I did several blog stops this morning as I attempted to wake up and make sense. Moo has been on a psuedo-vacation all week and finally goes back to school tomorrow. I am miraculously feeling pretty good but as you can imagine, no writing has really taken place. It just doesn't happen amidst all the mommy-mommying. And that's okay. I've had a lot of stirring ideas and thoughts and I imagine I'll be able to hit the pages hard tomorrow.
Today, we're going out with Moo's best friend to give them some playtime so us Moms can get a little breathing room. This is new to me. I've never done the play-date thing. This sucks for Moo, I know, but what is so commonplace these days is laughably ridiculous to the previous era of childrearing. You know, the one my mom raised me in? Her idea of a playdate was locking the kids outside so they'd play and she could clean the house without interruption. We were only allowed to come in to pee. Grudgingly. Then again, there were six of us. And we had a yard. And a neighborhood of kids to play with. Moo has no sibs, no yard and no neighborhood.
Hello, have we met? I am Crappy Mommy.
So, I am about to get over my fear of crowds and people who I don't know and wander out with my more-socially-adept-than-me autistic child into the land of Play Dates.
God have mercy on my soul.
(I'll let y'all know how it goes!)
Dee
Go check in on Larissa Ione and congratulate her! Girlfriend just sold to Red Sage's "Secrets" series!!! Way To Go, Larissa!
EDITED:
Okay, I'm lazy. One, I don't want to blog again, but more importantly, I don't want to push Larissa's great news down the blog page or it'll get missed. That one sounds highly noble, so I'll stick with that. :) (But seriously, SOOOO happy for Larissa!)
So, I did several blog stops this morning as I attempted to wake up and make sense. Moo has been on a psuedo-vacation all week and finally goes back to school tomorrow. I am miraculously feeling pretty good but as you can imagine, no writing has really taken place. It just doesn't happen amidst all the mommy-mommying. And that's okay. I've had a lot of stirring ideas and thoughts and I imagine I'll be able to hit the pages hard tomorrow.
Today, we're going out with Moo's best friend to give them some playtime so us Moms can get a little breathing room. This is new to me. I've never done the play-date thing. This sucks for Moo, I know, but what is so commonplace these days is laughably ridiculous to the previous era of childrearing. You know, the one my mom raised me in? Her idea of a playdate was locking the kids outside so they'd play and she could clean the house without interruption. We were only allowed to come in to pee. Grudgingly. Then again, there were six of us. And we had a yard. And a neighborhood of kids to play with. Moo has no sibs, no yard and no neighborhood.
Hello, have we met? I am Crappy Mommy.
So, I am about to get over my fear of crowds and people who I don't know and wander out with my more-socially-adept-than-me autistic child into the land of Play Dates.
God have mercy on my soul.
(I'll let y'all know how it goes!)
Dee
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Not A Teach Day...YET!
But I have made a good start on one of my other goals. I've made a committment to do a project or two for Romance Junkies, which I'll post about when I have it set. Suffice it to say, I'm very excited and glad that Cat has the opportunity available!
I'm hoping to get teach day restarted next week but for now, I'll be working on my other goal of writing and working. Then it's tax time. Those things WILL get done, daggnabbit.
A friend at eHQ, during a really great craft discussion on the Writing Blaze page said something particularly stirring about keeping the story from lagging and maintaining the tension by working on the characters fears. It's not something new--Internal conflict, "Trample, Trample, Trample" after all--but it's something I deeply needed reminding of. They're doing some writing exercises and some Golden Hearts valuing, lol. (I'd comment, but as I don't do contests for the very reasons they're mulling, I'm not really a voice of any knowledge.) Might be worth peeking in for you.
As for me, I'll head over there a bit later. I'm going to go poke my hero in the eyes a few times. :)
Smooches,
Dee
I'm hoping to get teach day restarted next week but for now, I'll be working on my other goal of writing and working. Then it's tax time. Those things WILL get done, daggnabbit.
A friend at eHQ, during a really great craft discussion on the Writing Blaze page said something particularly stirring about keeping the story from lagging and maintaining the tension by working on the characters fears. It's not something new--Internal conflict, "Trample, Trample, Trample" after all--but it's something I deeply needed reminding of. They're doing some writing exercises and some Golden Hearts valuing, lol. (I'd comment, but as I don't do contests for the very reasons they're mulling, I'm not really a voice of any knowledge.) Might be worth peeking in for you.
As for me, I'll head over there a bit later. I'm going to go poke my hero in the eyes a few times. :)
Smooches,
Dee
Monday, February 20, 2006
BlogSlap!
I'm tired of myself. I really am. Since the move, particularly, I've managed to whine, complain, explain and maintain a blog filled with pretty much no value whatsoever.
I woke up the other day and realized, I need a blogslap. I need to focus my blog, my writing, my life and my work. Now. No meandering here, meandering there. I need to get back to Tuesday Teach Days because, dammit, I need to start learning again. I need to plan out exactly how my future PR plans must roll out to give my book the best chance and show my publisher that I'm willing to work to make it a success. I need to get my ear back to the railroad and pay attention to the Industry. I need to widen my scope and approach the world I'm hoping to become known in like it's a battle plan, not a walk in the park.
So, I need to set some goals.
1) Finish the fricken taxes. Our refund is going to go a long way toward my goals of paying for my website and RWA registration, which I deeply want this year. (I want a pink ribbon, I want to fantisize about RITA noms someday, so I need to get into position.) I want to take my boy to Disneyland.
2) Finish the fricken book. I'm halfway and I've made a lot of progress. There is no reason to slow down now.
3) Work out a daily schedule. Each day of the week needs to be given a number of duties including days for specific modes--Website work, Scheduling, PR development, Fresh Proposals--and each weekday must include a minimum of 2 hours writing time. It must also include blog reading, as this is an important part of keeping up with the Industry.
Now, each of these goals is pretty large, so I'm going to stop at 3.
Anyone out there have a list of goals they need to make? Lets make a list and see if we can keep each other on them.
I woke up the other day and realized, I need a blogslap. I need to focus my blog, my writing, my life and my work. Now. No meandering here, meandering there. I need to get back to Tuesday Teach Days because, dammit, I need to start learning again. I need to plan out exactly how my future PR plans must roll out to give my book the best chance and show my publisher that I'm willing to work to make it a success. I need to get my ear back to the railroad and pay attention to the Industry. I need to widen my scope and approach the world I'm hoping to become known in like it's a battle plan, not a walk in the park.
So, I need to set some goals.
1) Finish the fricken taxes. Our refund is going to go a long way toward my goals of paying for my website and RWA registration, which I deeply want this year. (I want a pink ribbon, I want to fantisize about RITA noms someday, so I need to get into position.) I want to take my boy to Disneyland.
2) Finish the fricken book. I'm halfway and I've made a lot of progress. There is no reason to slow down now.
3) Work out a daily schedule. Each day of the week needs to be given a number of duties including days for specific modes--Website work, Scheduling, PR development, Fresh Proposals--and each weekday must include a minimum of 2 hours writing time. It must also include blog reading, as this is an important part of keeping up with the Industry.
Now, each of these goals is pretty large, so I'm going to stop at 3.
Anyone out there have a list of goals they need to make? Lets make a list and see if we can keep each other on them.
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Halfway Mark!
Phew! I broke 30k! I love half way, somehow it all seems downhill speed from there! Sky is rambling along and it's really becoming one of those stories that you had to get to a certain maturity to understand what you were trying to say. A long time ago I came up with this man with all these hidden depths and colors to him. But 8 years ago, I didn't know how to convey those depths or colors. I just said he had them.
Have any of you come across a character YOU had to grow up to understand? Is that what makes us writers look back on old works and revamp them? What do you think?
Dee
Have any of you come across a character YOU had to grow up to understand? Is that what makes us writers look back on old works and revamp them? What do you think?
Dee
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Anyone Got A Map?
Okay, so, I'm starting to realize there's quite a bit to promoting your book than I anticipated. Or rather, I knew there was, I just wasn't sure how to begin. I mean, it's not like I can go on eHQ and blather on about my upcoming release. So, where does an e-girl go for other reader communities?
I tried to check out All About Romance...I'm sure it's great but I can't seem to navigate it properly. I just can't seem to tell what goes to where or why.
Romance Junkies--am I wrong, is that only a chat and contest site? Not that I'm adverse to either, but I'm not quite ready for them since the book doesn't hit until Summer.
Romance Divas I've been to once before and I'm pretty sure I can get the hang of it when I have some more free time.
Are there more?
I know the point is not to go scream "Buy my book!" even though, hey, I'm not too proud to admit I'd like to do that. But I'm utterly unaware of other communities on the web and methinks that's not a good trait. Anyone got a clue or a direction to send me to find out more about what's out there? I'm ALLLLLLL eyes. :)
I tried to check out All About Romance...I'm sure it's great but I can't seem to navigate it properly. I just can't seem to tell what goes to where or why.
Romance Junkies--am I wrong, is that only a chat and contest site? Not that I'm adverse to either, but I'm not quite ready for them since the book doesn't hit until Summer.
Romance Divas I've been to once before and I'm pretty sure I can get the hang of it when I have some more free time.
Are there more?
I know the point is not to go scream "Buy my book!" even though, hey, I'm not too proud to admit I'd like to do that. But I'm utterly unaware of other communities on the web and methinks that's not a good trait. Anyone got a clue or a direction to send me to find out more about what's out there? I'm ALLLLLLL eyes. :)
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!
For the first year ever, I've sent Gio off to school with his Valentine's and treats ON TIME!! YAY!
Usually, something goes horribly wrong and I forget to get him something to take to his friends. This time, I had cards from last year (his class only had 6 kids last year!) and I remembered to make fudge cupcakes. Mind you, couldn't finish them. My pill was making me sleepy (second? Maybe the third one I'd had that day) and I wanted to stay awake and do it right. So, I stood up (that usually helps) and got started. I made the first batch and sister Pet had to take care of making sure they baked as well as the second batch. Sadly, I crashed. BUT I did get the decorated this morning and packed off to Moo's school!
So, here's to starting Valentine's Day on the right foot and wishing you all a great, romantic day!
Smooches!
Dee
Usually, something goes horribly wrong and I forget to get him something to take to his friends. This time, I had cards from last year (his class only had 6 kids last year!) and I remembered to make fudge cupcakes. Mind you, couldn't finish them. My pill was making me sleepy (second? Maybe the third one I'd had that day) and I wanted to stay awake and do it right. So, I stood up (that usually helps) and got started. I made the first batch and sister Pet had to take care of making sure they baked as well as the second batch. Sadly, I crashed. BUT I did get the decorated this morning and packed off to Moo's school!
So, here's to starting Valentine's Day on the right foot and wishing you all a great, romantic day!
Smooches!
Dee
Monday, February 13, 2006
Vicodin and Progress!
Well, ladies, after much scientific experimenting, it appears that drugs DO help you to think!
LOL, mine did anyway. After three days of steady vicodin use, the cramps are now at a tolerable enough state that I can stand upright and remain that way. There's some complaint in there, but nothing that requires the power of that kind of pain killer, I don't think. I guess the area just needed some rest instead of new pain compounding old pain.
That said, I got quite a bit done. Organized and sorted my books and the shelf they go into. I've probably got it down to about two or three hundred books now and I've packed up the other 2-300 books into a box for a friend of my mothers who has a father who is bedridden and loves to read. Hope he likes the frisky stuff!
And, along with about 8 small loads of laundry, I've gotten back to Sky. We had quite a dark breakthrough and though the couple has yet to even kiss, they've managed to have a great big passionate explosion! I also had the realization that this series has become something of a collection of my favorite classic tales. Sky is really a version of Hades and Persephone, Raven is Cinderella and Tara is really something of a Sleeping Beauty. Once I had that breakthrough, so much more that I was trying to relay came into stunning focus!
And that's how I ended up with 3441 words from this morning's session!
Even better, it brings my new total to 27,000 words out of 60k. That's a whopping 45% folks!
Talk about channeling Jimmie Hendrix!
Dee
LOL, mine did anyway. After three days of steady vicodin use, the cramps are now at a tolerable enough state that I can stand upright and remain that way. There's some complaint in there, but nothing that requires the power of that kind of pain killer, I don't think. I guess the area just needed some rest instead of new pain compounding old pain.
That said, I got quite a bit done. Organized and sorted my books and the shelf they go into. I've probably got it down to about two or three hundred books now and I've packed up the other 2-300 books into a box for a friend of my mothers who has a father who is bedridden and loves to read. Hope he likes the frisky stuff!
And, along with about 8 small loads of laundry, I've gotten back to Sky. We had quite a dark breakthrough and though the couple has yet to even kiss, they've managed to have a great big passionate explosion! I also had the realization that this series has become something of a collection of my favorite classic tales. Sky is really a version of Hades and Persephone, Raven is Cinderella and Tara is really something of a Sleeping Beauty. Once I had that breakthrough, so much more that I was trying to relay came into stunning focus!
And that's how I ended up with 3441 words from this morning's session!
Even better, it brings my new total to 27,000 words out of 60k. That's a whopping 45% folks!
Talk about channeling Jimmie Hendrix!
Dee
Friday, February 10, 2006
Good News, Bad News...
Okay, so I'm back from the doctor, who was wonderful.
Good news--I've been referred to a surgeon. The doctor says there's no reason I should be in this kind of pain and that as it's so debilitating, odds are surgery (even just exploratory) is obviously needed. She agrees, I've pretty much been in labor for a year. Still, the surgeon will be the guy to decide for sure.
Bad news--I've not had an actual menses since roughly September. Dr was a titch horrified by this as my going this long leaves me open for infection and possibly even endometrial cancer, so I'm going to have to take some meds to bring it on. Unfortunately, this usually feels like I'm giving birth to a ball of razor blades. However, I'll tell you the reason I love my new doctor. She prescribed me pain killers, unlike my last doctor who believed advil was all I should ask for. So, I can't promise I'll be blogging all that well the next couple of weeks. But I'll do me best. :)
On the whole, I'm happy. SOMEthing is getting done instead of my being told to just live with it. There's finally some hope again that it doesn't have to stay like this. Even if I don't get pregnant again, I stand a good chance at walking without pain. :)
Big smooches to everyone!
Dee
PS: Got this on Tanya's site!
Good news--I've been referred to a surgeon. The doctor says there's no reason I should be in this kind of pain and that as it's so debilitating, odds are surgery (even just exploratory) is obviously needed. She agrees, I've pretty much been in labor for a year. Still, the surgeon will be the guy to decide for sure.
Bad news--I've not had an actual menses since roughly September. Dr was a titch horrified by this as my going this long leaves me open for infection and possibly even endometrial cancer, so I'm going to have to take some meds to bring it on. Unfortunately, this usually feels like I'm giving birth to a ball of razor blades. However, I'll tell you the reason I love my new doctor. She prescribed me pain killers, unlike my last doctor who believed advil was all I should ask for. So, I can't promise I'll be blogging all that well the next couple of weeks. But I'll do me best. :)
On the whole, I'm happy. SOMEthing is getting done instead of my being told to just live with it. There's finally some hope again that it doesn't have to stay like this. Even if I don't get pregnant again, I stand a good chance at walking without pain. :)
Big smooches to everyone!
Dee
PS: Got this on Tanya's site!
I am 58% Evil Genius.
Evil courses through my blood. Lies and deceit motivate my evil deeds. Crushing the weaklings and idiots that do nothing but interfere in my doings.Thursday, February 09, 2006
See, this is how I get in trouble...
I played with my blog. Discovered some new things and liked the look better. I was content. (Well, as content as I get.)
Then hubby had to work REALLY late last night. He came home for dinner, then headed back in. I promised to stay up. I don't trust myself to write when I'm tired, so I thought, well, I'll just work on that annoying header resizing problem on my webpage.
You'd think I'd realize by now that I don't just work on one thing when I hit the HTML. There's about a thousand "While I'm here...."s and before you know it, you're neck deep in some serious updating. Thankfully, hubby didn't get home until nearly 2 am, so I had plenty of time to dig myself out of my hole (take that however you please).
Unfortunately, it was a really big hole.
But a worthwhile one!
So, this morning, up at 7. Remember that "morning person" post? Yeah, once I'm up...I'm up. I'll pass out sometime tonight, I'm sure, but since I was foggy, I hit the HTML again and got most of the pages back in order. There's a lot that needs fixing (I'm making use of subdirectories to make all the sections have their own page IDs. :) ), but it's moderately operable for now. :)
So, if you're inclined to look, the site has been revamped yet again. Not so drastically, though I did off the Black background y'all hated so much, lol. Now it matches this one. :) I solved the resize problem (and feel moderately dumb, but it was tricky, I'll save the REALLY dumb feeling for something else.) and I think it came out pretty cool. :)
Much love to everyone!
Dee
Then hubby had to work REALLY late last night. He came home for dinner, then headed back in. I promised to stay up. I don't trust myself to write when I'm tired, so I thought, well, I'll just work on that annoying header resizing problem on my webpage.
You'd think I'd realize by now that I don't just work on one thing when I hit the HTML. There's about a thousand "While I'm here...."s and before you know it, you're neck deep in some serious updating. Thankfully, hubby didn't get home until nearly 2 am, so I had plenty of time to dig myself out of my hole (take that however you please).
Unfortunately, it was a really big hole.
But a worthwhile one!
So, this morning, up at 7. Remember that "morning person" post? Yeah, once I'm up...I'm up. I'll pass out sometime tonight, I'm sure, but since I was foggy, I hit the HTML again and got most of the pages back in order. There's a lot that needs fixing (I'm making use of subdirectories to make all the sections have their own page IDs. :) ), but it's moderately operable for now. :)
So, if you're inclined to look, the site has been revamped yet again. Not so drastically, though I did off the Black background y'all hated so much, lol. Now it matches this one. :) I solved the resize problem (and feel moderately dumb, but it was tricky, I'll save the REALLY dumb feeling for something else.) and I think it came out pretty cool. :)
Much love to everyone!
Dee
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
PMS Rage...over?
I know, shocking! I've redefined the word bitch for more than a week, but I think--like a fever--it's finally broken. Yesterday hurt, I'm not going to lie. But I could think clearly. I laughed with my son, even when he interrupted me. It's like my brain cleared, though I'm not sure when it happened. Today, I actually hopped up and walked around and made tea and felt like a reasonable woman. Not sure how long it'll last, but the heebie jeebies about writing have faded along with the pleas for death and the 8 month waddle!
I'm probably going to have to take it easy for a bit longer, but at least this bout is on it's way out!
That said, I went trolling the blogs I know--and a few I didn't--and discovered much of the world is at peace today. WOW! To that end, I have only a fun quiz I picked up at Julie Cohen's blog. I'm SCOOTER!!
And if that wasn't enough to thrill you, lol, here's the Online Fortune Cookie of the day:
Good advice will be given to you; do not ignore it!
Hmmm, wonder what THAT will mean!
Smooches,
Dee
I'm probably going to have to take it easy for a bit longer, but at least this bout is on it's way out!
That said, I went trolling the blogs I know--and a few I didn't--and discovered much of the world is at peace today. WOW! To that end, I have only a fun quiz I picked up at Julie Cohen's blog. I'm SCOOTER!!
| You Are Scooter |
 Brainy and knowledgable, you are the perfect sidekick. You're always willing to lend a helping hand. In any big event or party, you're the one who keeps things going. "15 seconds to showtime!" |
And if that wasn't enough to thrill you, lol, here's the Online Fortune Cookie of the day:
Hmmm, wonder what THAT will mean!
Smooches,
Dee
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Anniversary?
It occurs to me that this blog is now, technically...a year old! How's that for a shock? I'm not sure if it really counts, I was TOTALLY spotty for the first four or five months (which I feel really bad about). But this blog has been good to me. I've met a lot of great people and found out I'm only half as boring as I thought. Plus, if it weren't for this blog--or the act of blogging and the great advice of my CP, X--I wouldn't have sold. How do you not love a blog that works so hard for you?
So, here's to a great blogsite that is every day somewhere to unload my itty, bitty brain. :)
But, I'm officially out of Tuesday Teach Day topics. Anyone have some ideas for good conversation? Y'all are more than welcome to teach me. :)
Smooches,
Dee
So, here's to a great blogsite that is every day somewhere to unload my itty, bitty brain. :)
But, I'm officially out of Tuesday Teach Day topics. Anyone have some ideas for good conversation? Y'all are more than welcome to teach me. :)
Smooches,
Dee
Friday, February 03, 2006
Grumble...
I'm not used to fighting with my writing too much. Not that I haven't had rough spots. Or that I haven't pushed the damn book away and done something else. Often times, writing can be a battle and I admit, it's hard to get back in after such a long bloody time off. But I spent hours trying to get back into my groove...and ended up writing a comedy scene for a serious book. Worse, it was slapstick. I HATE slapstick, and yet, I had my resolute and reluctant hero accidentally tear off the bottom of my heroine's dress with his truck door and throw water on her silk dress when she accidentally lit her sleeve on fire.
Have I lost my mind?
Apparently.
Thankfully, I've been blessed with a delete button.
Oy ve....
Have I lost my mind?
Apparently.
Thankfully, I've been blessed with a delete button.
Oy ve....
Friday, God Bless You!
Ah, up from the penniless scraping! Today's payday--for hubby!
Also, the new fridge arrived and it's virtually silent, particularly compared to the nearly violent rambling groans of the last one. It ain't fancy, of course, but it works and that's all I can really ask. I'm pondering how much it might cost to have an external small freezer, just to keep meats and such in because this puppy has a much smaller freezer than my old side-by-side. Someday, I plan to have a really dream fridgy. Not with a computer in it or anything, lol, but something silent and lovely and roomy.
Even better, have redone my lovely computer and the baby runs like a dream now. Much love to the comp's restore disks and the joy of software updates!
Also, much of my home is put away. It's still a disaster--my desk is overrun with so much crap I'm actually afraid to look at it--but most things have a place now.
The only downside is that hubby will be responsible for purging quite a bit more of his stuff. It took me ten years to get him to get rid of what he dumped before the move, so I'm not really thinking I'll get very far...but wish me luck anyway. I'm hoping his attraction to being able to enter a room without falling down will help in this aim.
Also, I'm hoping to have some time to update pages and edit this weekend. Not holding my breath, but at least I've caught up on so much already!
Off to make tea and dig into the rewrites!
Dee
Also, the new fridge arrived and it's virtually silent, particularly compared to the nearly violent rambling groans of the last one. It ain't fancy, of course, but it works and that's all I can really ask. I'm pondering how much it might cost to have an external small freezer, just to keep meats and such in because this puppy has a much smaller freezer than my old side-by-side. Someday, I plan to have a really dream fridgy. Not with a computer in it or anything, lol, but something silent and lovely and roomy.
Even better, have redone my lovely computer and the baby runs like a dream now. Much love to the comp's restore disks and the joy of software updates!
Also, much of my home is put away. It's still a disaster--my desk is overrun with so much crap I'm actually afraid to look at it--but most things have a place now.
The only downside is that hubby will be responsible for purging quite a bit more of his stuff. It took me ten years to get him to get rid of what he dumped before the move, so I'm not really thinking I'll get very far...but wish me luck anyway. I'm hoping his attraction to being able to enter a room without falling down will help in this aim.
Also, I'm hoping to have some time to update pages and edit this weekend. Not holding my breath, but at least I've caught up on so much already!
Off to make tea and dig into the rewrites!
Dee
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Take THAT, Pop Ups!
I kept trying to figure out why my blog had all these annoying pop up ad things. It's been bugging me but I couldn't figure it out. Finally, I realized last night in a fit of cleaning that it was my tagboard! After eliminating that, I've now got a clean blog, so many apologies on that if it was bugging you too.
Also, while I was looking around for things to steal...I mean, TRY, I realized that you're able to use regular hexadecimal codes for color instead of the odd three number combinations that are so limited. (I'm new to blog codes), so this page will soon be adjusted more to my liking! :) Sorry it's taken so long to get back up to date.
Alas, prolly not til the weekend. Moo surprised me by projectile vomiting last night. The last time he was like that, he had pneumonia. Have no idea what brought it on, but he's home today. And fine. Seriously, what is it about kids that makes them bounce back in half a night's sleep?
Well, off to more catching up. With any luck, I'll unbury my desk today. :)
Smooches,
Dee
Also, while I was looking around for things to steal...I mean, TRY, I realized that you're able to use regular hexadecimal codes for color instead of the odd three number combinations that are so limited. (I'm new to blog codes), so this page will soon be adjusted more to my liking! :) Sorry it's taken so long to get back up to date.
Alas, prolly not til the weekend. Moo surprised me by projectile vomiting last night. The last time he was like that, he had pneumonia. Have no idea what brought it on, but he's home today. And fine. Seriously, what is it about kids that makes them bounce back in half a night's sleep?
Well, off to more catching up. With any luck, I'll unbury my desk today. :)
Smooches,
Dee
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
I WROTE!!
It wasn't murder I wrote, lol, but it was words! And sentences! And hallelujah, PAGES!! For the first time in three weeks, I was able to settle down and write! Bliss! Sweet heaven! Now maybe I'll stop biting people's heads off, lol.
Well, let's not get carried away...
Anyhow, I'm now firmly on my way to Chapter 5 of Sky. Woohoo! I found several things I needed to repace from my partial and it's moving MUCH smoother now. Added one other thing about my heroine's secret past and current present, so I'm thinking it should go pretty good from here. Back to my two hours of writing time or someone dies rule. I'm rebuilding the middle and I've taken SO much out, but I'm really pleased so far.
As for interesting things...well, I am a housewife, I don't expect there will be a ton of that stuff anytime soon. Laundry, kidlet and most likely, the joy of cooking will be my daily schedule now. But at least I'm going again. It's kind of like being told you can eat ice cream again! Oh, the fridge we have here is sorta half dead and needs replacement. It's being delivered Friday and I'll be needing to cough up half the money for it. Assuming I can FIND half the money for it. With any luck though, that will be the last thing to break down for a while. :)
Big smooches all around, I also hope to return to blog rounds this weekend. :)
Dee
Well, let's not get carried away...
Anyhow, I'm now firmly on my way to Chapter 5 of Sky. Woohoo! I found several things I needed to repace from my partial and it's moving MUCH smoother now. Added one other thing about my heroine's secret past and current present, so I'm thinking it should go pretty good from here. Back to my two hours of writing time or someone dies rule. I'm rebuilding the middle and I've taken SO much out, but I'm really pleased so far.
As for interesting things...well, I am a housewife, I don't expect there will be a ton of that stuff anytime soon. Laundry, kidlet and most likely, the joy of cooking will be my daily schedule now. But at least I'm going again. It's kind of like being told you can eat ice cream again! Oh, the fridge we have here is sorta half dead and needs replacement. It's being delivered Friday and I'll be needing to cough up half the money for it. Assuming I can FIND half the money for it. With any luck though, that will be the last thing to break down for a while. :)
Big smooches all around, I also hope to return to blog rounds this weekend. :)
Dee
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)