Into a Writer's Head

Life...

2012-02-04T16:49:00.000-08:00

Life is getting pretty twisty and turny lately. I've got my eye on three different book projects, I'm back to work on National Boards, and I'm still working on the whole life/work balance.

In other news, I also realized that sometimes, fear is what holds us back and sometimes it's what pushes us forward. I'm more afraid of NOT becoming a success than I am of being successful. It is what has pushed me forward these last ten years, and it's what continues to push me. Blame my high school, blame my parents, blame my friends and family. It doesn't really matter where you lay the blame, I'm still going to push myself to be the best I can in my life.

Now if only that weren't so exhausting. :)

Realizations and personal milestones

2011-11-16T20:45:00.000-08:00

12 years ago I lost a significant amount of weight using a very popular diet/weight-loss program. When I moved to Washington State I took a job working for them, and worked there for over 10 years. I worked there because I believed in the program. I believed that by watching what I ate, I'd keep that weight off. I knew I needed to exercise, and I did.
But here's the thing, after all that time I found myself becoming increasingly more frustrated. During this time I developed the hand problems that ultimately lead me to discover the joy of strength training.
Yes, you read that write, I said joy.
As writers, we spend way too much time sitting around with our computers. Heck, as I type this I'm sitting on my couch with my laptop. If we're lucky we get up and go for a walk, or maybe hit the elliptical a few times a week. And I, like many writers, was frustrated. I was so frustrated that weight was coming back on, that I was eating what I was supposed to be eating but not losing weight. I was exercising 4-5 days a week and not feeling any better about myself.
Then I realized something. I was lifting more weight than I had every lifted before. Without pain! I had a routine of cardio and strength training, and I wasn't skipping just to go out with friends. I was putting ME first for once.
And it felt good.
As of this week I am now able to lift 15 lbs. on a bicep curl...that's up from 5 lbs. (on a good day) last spring. The fact that I'm lifting 15 lbs. just blows my mind! I was telling everyone I saw about it, that's how good it felt.
There's another realization that came with all this, though. I can do anything if I give it enough time, and enough energy. I can turn my body around. I can publish a book. I can make my life exactly what I want it to be.
And that's a pretty powerful feeling.

Who said all multi-tasking is bad?

2011-10-23T18:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, if you've been listening to the news at all...or even to my dear friend The Happy Writer, you know that multi-tasking as not nearly as effective as we once believed. Apparently when you aren't giving your full attention to something it takes longer to do.
Imagine that.
But the last few days I've been testing out a new theory. This theory is that not all multi-tasking is bad. For example, putting on your favorite dance music while cleaning can, in fact, make things better. Alas, I'm not hear to talk about how to make your daily household chores more palatable. Instead I'd like to talk to you about how you can improve your writing while exercising.
I know, the two are pretty much mutually exclusive, unless you have one of those fancy writing treadmill desks (which, fyi, I want...I'm just sayin'). We all know that turning up the volume on faced paced music can not only get us moving faster, but it can also provide incentive to get our buts on that treadmill or elliptical machine.
The other day, rather than turn on the tunes when I started my weight routine, I decided to turn on a workshop from RWA '11. I ordered the CDs over the summer, and I've had them downloaded to my iPod for months. But had I listened to a single one yet? Of course not. Who has the time?
Except I did. Sort of. I'm doing my weight routine twice a week now. It takes between 30-45 min. to complete. That's 30-45 min. I could spend listening to a workshop (almost all of which are under an hour). So I decided to give it a try. I've now worked through three different sessions, and I have to admit this may be my new thing. First of all, I'm not getting tired of my music. Second of all, because I don't have to "think" as much when I'm doing my weight routine, I can pay attention to the workshop. And since I'm not walking or ellipticalling (is that even a word?), I don't have to worry about my pace.
It's a win-win I figure. So here's my weekly challenge to you: find time to perfect your craft in a way that is non-writing related. Listen to a workshop at the gym. Go for a walk with a friend and brainstorm your heart out. But do something different.

Take time, take 2

2011-10-15T14:26:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago I talked about taking care of yourself. In the past, this concept has mostly fallen by the wayside in the fall when I start back at work. I find that I'm often working longer hours during that time. Add in time with friends and family (relaxing), and that leaves less time for actually taking care of myself. In this case, I'm talking about things like getting enough sleep, eating right, and exercising often enough. Let's face it, it's easy to let these three things slide. We want to see friends so we go out to dinner. Mamma Mia is on t.v. so we stay up late on a work-night to watch it. Since we went out to dinner with our friend, and because we're tired, we skip the gym.
They add up.
This year I challenged myself to not fall down that path. I challenged myself to get my 8 hours of sleep a night, to not eat out as much, and to keep up with my exercise. It's not always easy, and takes a lot of planning. And let's face it, most night it's more like 7 or 7.5 hours. I'm still seeing friends and family, just not as frequently. Instead, I'm making myself a priority.
The funny thing about it? My friends totally get it. I thought they'd feel left behind, or upset that they didn't see me enough. Instead? They are either looking for activities we can do together that let me get my workouts in (hike anyone?) or they're meeting me for a quick coffee instead of a full meal. It takes a little less time, but let's me still get to meet up with my friends.

So I challenge you: put yourself first. Put your writing, your body, your needs first. Believe it or not? Those who love you will be more supportive than you think. And you will reap the benefits.

New find...

2011-09-19T20:02:00.000-07:00

Anyone else fall into food/drink ruts? Especially in the school year, I end up eating a lot of the same foods all the time. I'm convinced I'm missing key vitamins...but that's not what this post is about.
It's about my newest find: Trader Joe's bottled White & Green Tea. With a hint of mint, and a little bit of splenda, it's my newest love. It's especially coming in handy as I'm trying to stay away from pop again. As I work on becoming the healthiest me possible, one of the keys (to me) is finding those little substitutions that give me the most bang for their buck. I love tea, and I really love ice tea in warmer weather. While fall is definitely on its way in, there's still enough sun around here to keep on drinking it.
So what's your latest keeping you healthy find?

Quick check...

2011-09-07T20:25:00.000-07:00

The school year is back in swing, which means I'm back to waking up at 0-dark thirty. Which also means that I'm more tired on day two than I was on the first day. I'll get used to it soon enough, but until then it's a struggle to do anything, let alone take care of myself.
So, what do I do to combat this? I make myself a deal. I know myself well enough to know that if I come home (in this frame of mind), I won't leave again. It'll take too much energy. Instead I give myself twenty minutes. That's it. Twenty minutes of some kind of movement. If all I can do afterward is collapse on the couch, so be it. If, after twenty minutes, I have more energy and can go longer I do.
What does this all have to do with writing? Well, it's simple. Give yourself twenty minutes. You don't have to keep track of the pages. You don't have to stay up all night. Just spend twenty minutes writing. If, at the end, you're ready for bed then go to sleep. If you're not? Well, maybe you can do another twenty!
Remember, in exercise as well as in writing, something is better than nothing.

Creativity...

2011-08-22T14:57:00.000-07:00

Most people I know need some kind of creative outlet. They write fiction, take photos, make scrapbooks, sing, dance, and the list goes on. Which got me thinking about a peculiar phenomenon I noticed. Creativity in one area can sometimes sap our creative activity for another area.
For example, several years ago I knew several scrapbookers. They were very talented, and I loved their creations. But they found that when they spent time scrapbooking, it left little creativity behind for their writing.
Which of course, got me thinking. Is it truly that there was no creativity left? Is it that they only had so much energy and time to spare? Is it that their brain needed an outlet, and once achieved went to sleep?
I don't know the answer for sure. But I do know that when I'm in the thick of things, and writing my heart out, I don't have the time or desire to spend putting together photo albums. I have to put all my creative juice into my writing.
What about you? How does your creativity work?

Make time to take care of you...

2011-08-16T14:27:00.000-07:00

Okay, time to 'fess up. We've all done it. We've all promised to ________ (fill in the blank with your choice: go see your doctor/chiropractor/dentist/acupuncturist, go get a manicure/pedicure, get a massage, go to the beach, read a book, watch a movie). And we've all used the regular excuse of not having time or money to do so.
Well, it's time to take a step back and re-evaluate. It's no secret I've dealt with hand problems for the last several years. It's also no secret that in recent months I've finally moved a whole lot closer to being back to normal.
The reason? I started taking care of myself. For years I've talked about going to get a massage once a month, or once every other month, you know the drill. Then a month passes and funds are low, so I don't go. And I don't go. And again I don't go. Let's face it, few of us can afford the $70+ it costs for a good one hour massage. Instead they become little treats that we hold out for. Last spring I stopped making excuses for not taking care of myself enough. I had a choice. I could continue to lived a stress-filled, pain-filled life, or I could do something about it. About that time I saw a physical therapist and started taking advantage of a little known benefit in my health insurance...massage therapy.
That's right folks. For simply the cost of a co-pay, I'm getting twice monthly massages, and I feel great! My stress levels are lower, and most importantly my body feels good.
Now, I'm not telling all of you to go get a massage every other week, or to spend lots of money. What I'm telling you to do is to start making the time for you. Make that doctor appointment. Go see a chiropractor or acupuncturist. Go get a manicure, or treat yourself to lunch out. Don't break the bank, but do treat yourself well.
So tell me, what have you done lately to take care of you?

Meditation

2011-08-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

Okay, raise your hand if you can successfully meditate for more than 10 minutes at a time? If you're like me, your hand is down in your lap and you're currently glancing awkwardly around the room. Meditation and I are not friends in the strictest meaning of the word. Don't get me wrong, I've tried. I've tried so many times I should get a gold star for effort. I've taken meditation classes, yoga classes, I've listened to CDs and videos online.
I sometimes feel I've tried it all, and failed.
And as you all know, I don't take failure lightly.
But while taking with my good friend The Happy Writer, I realized something (as I often do after talking with friends). I realized that I actually do meditate, in my own way. It's just that others may not see it as meditation. I meditate by getting out of my own head. I go for a swim, or a walk, or a bike ride. I put on my headphones and I just move. I listen to the music instead of my own thoughts, and when those thoughts intrude, I take them in, then move on. I don't dwell in them, but let them flit in and out.
Most important, I find that when I come home, I'm ready to face whatever it is I need to face. I'm ready to write, or deal with work. I can think more clearly.
So for those of you who find traditional meditation too difficult, give it a try. Let me know what you think.

Biceps challenge...

2011-07-23T17:37:00.000-07:00

The other day I went for a walk with my mother, and was telling her about my adventures in strength training. I fully admit to taking the slow route here, folks. I started by building up strength in my shoulders, and as that has now become a normal part of the routine, I've begun to add other exercises.
Like the standard bicep curl.
I was so proud of myself too. I'd built up to a whole 5 lbs. per side! Yes, this was big news for me, considering I started out with my 3 lbs. weights.
My mom, proud of my progress, had a suggestion that I'm going to share with you (along with the usual caveat that I'm not a trainer, I have no training in sports medicine, or the like. I'm not a doctor). My mom IS a personal trainer, and is always great to go to for suggestions on simple tweaks that I can do at home.
You'll need two hand weights in varying sizes (ex. 3 and 5 lbs., or 5 and 8 lbs.). The lower weight should be something you could curl 8-10 times without having to stop for a break. The heavier weight should be heavy enough that your muscle is exhausted within 3-4 repetitions.
So here it is, a small modification that can make a world of difference. Start with the lesser of the two weights. Starting with your right arm, do your standard bicep curl 5-6 times. Then immediately switch to the heavier weight for 2-3 curls.
Switch to your left arm, and repeat the routine starting with the lighter weight.
You'll go though the whole routine 2 times to start with. According to my mother, this will actually help you build up your strength a faster than doing 2-3 sets of 8-12 repetitions of a lighter weight. The key is to fatigue the muscle.
At first I wasn't so sure, but I gave her suggestion a try, and was amazed at the result. After going through this routine only a few times, I can already lift the heavier weight 4 or 5 times, instead of just 2 or 3.
I've even tried it with a tricep press. I'll have to let you know how that one goes after I give it a few more times.
***
So, what have you done recently to challenge yourself and go a little further?

We've all heard it...

2011-07-14T10:37:00.000-07:00

But how many of us do it? Take a break that is. I've read several articles recently reminding people to get up from the computer at least once an hour for several minutes. Get up. Move around. Look at something other than a computer screen.
Now, if you're anything like me, you get up and you may not sit back down for another hour as you become engrossed in various other timewasters (ie. housework). For a long time I felt badly about this. I thought I was being unproductive. Recently however, I began to realize that those aren't the timewasters I thought they were. In fact, what they are is the mental, physical, and visual break my poor body needs.
Challenge time! I challenge you to take a 5 min. mini-break every hour. You can walk around, you can read a magazine (stay away from the books, or your break will likely become two hours of wasted time), dance to some music, load the dishwasher, make some tea...anything! Just remember to sit back down when you're done.

Did everyone have fun?

2011-07-07T14:20:00.000-07:00

I'm back from RWA's National Conference, and finally caught up on all mail, cleaning, and email. It's amazing how much that piles up when you're not looking.
I hope you all had a good time, and that those who couldn't go this year got together with other writer friends and still had a good time. It's so important to have that time with like-minded individuals. It's easy, in the days of email and internet to forget how important actual face-time is. This is true in any industry, but especially in the writing world. We are a solitary industry. We sit in front of our computers and we type away. We might call up a friend to moan or complain. We might get online and vent our frustration at how long this process can take sometimes. But face-time is so very important.
I have a group of ladies I meet with at least once a month, without fail. If one of us has a conflict we do everything we can to reschedule. If rescheduling is impossible, we'll sometimes make a second meeting just so we can get together. At Conference I met up with a girlfriend who I haven't seen in almost 6 years (seriously, Karina, that's too long). It was like no time had passed us by.
These face to face meetings recharge me. They energize and feed my soul in a way that email and facebook simply can't.
So what about you? How do you get your face-time in?

Wide Pull-Down

2011-06-22T13:43:00.000-07:00

I do this exercise with one of the free cable machines when I'm at the gym, and with (very) light hand weights at home. When you're setting the machine up, you want your arms to create a wide V. Make sure that while you are doing this exercise that you are shoulders are down, and that you are squeezing your shoulder blades together. Think about it like you have a tennis ball that you are trying to hold between your shoulders. The motion is a simple one. Start with your arms wide, palms facing away from you. When you're ready, pull down and in, rotating your hands so that they face in. Start with two sets of 10.

Staying sane at Nationals

2011-06-15T19:58:00.000-07:00

For all my friends attending RWA's National Conference in the next few weeks, here are a couple of tips for staying sane (at the conference and in NY).
-Accept that you won't get enough sleep. Consider a power nap before lunch.
-Eat breakfast. Pick up some granola bars or yogurt to keep in your room. Breakfast will give you the energy boost you need to get through those early morning workshops.
-Bring your walking shoes. The hotel isn't that far from Central Park. If you find yourself getting overwhelmed by everyone and everything, take a walk!
-Keep snacks on hand. Nothing ruins a day faster than a blood sugar dip.

And my most important tip? Have fun. Most of us writers like to keep to ourselves. Let's be honest, we don't get out much. This is your chance to step outside your box.

Sunshine...does a body good.

2011-06-06T18:52:00.000-07:00

I know sometimes it's so hard to pull yourself off the couch. You're tired. You've got laundry to fold, writing to do, a bathroom to clean, papers to grade...the work never ends. Sometimes the last thing you want to do is get home from work and go back out.
But sometimes you have to. Our bodies need Vitamin D. It helps us sleep better, feel better, look better. You can have all the work in the world, but it's worth it to take those 15 min. (or if you can spare it, 30 min.) to get outside in the sunshine. Now, maybe it's because I live in the Pacific NW, but I don't know many people that aren't made happier by a sunny day. The benefits compound themselves. For example, you go out to get some sun, it puts you in a better mood so you go for a short walk. The walk wakes you up and energizes you, which makes you extend that walk from a short one around the block to the walk down to the corner. Then you get home, and you're so energized you're just raring to go on that manuscript. You sit down and you crank out five new pages.
All because you let yourself enjoy the sunshine.
So go on, frolic. I dare you!

Switch it up!

2011-06-01T17:45:00.000-07:00

Over the years I've learned some important things about myself. Primarily, I get bored easily. Maybe it's the Gemini in me...or maybe it's just that I have a short attention span. I need to be challenged. It's one reason I love writing. Writing to me provides an opportunity to constantly push myself a little harder, a little further.
Our bodies are the same way. We need to challenge ourselves, almost constantly. If you do the same thing every day, for the same amount of time, eventually your body gets bored. You may still enjoy it, but your body isn't reaping the same benefits.
So switch it up! If you like to walk, find a new path or trail. Maybe try a hike with more hills. If you like to run, push yourself further. Try training for a 5k. If you're feeling really adventurous, try something entirely new. Go for a swim, take a bike ride, try a new exercise class (Go Zumba!). It doesn't matter what you do, just as long as you're pushing yourself.

Strength time!

2011-05-24T17:37:00.000-07:00

Okay, for this exercise you'll want an exercise band of fairly light resistance to start with. You can do this sitting or standing, though sitting is easier for getting started. This exercise will help to strengthen those shoulder muscles in the middle of your back. As you're doing this exercise, imagine squeezing a tennis ball between your shoulder blades.
Step 1: hold your arms out in front of you, a little wider than shoulder width. Hold the band on either end.
Step 2: Pull your arms (and the band) out toward your sides, squeezing your shoulder blades.
Step 3: Return to start (slowly), then repeat.

Do two sets of ten.

I challenge you...

2011-05-17T18:54:00.000-07:00

I challenge you to try something new. Take up a new sport, try a different genre of books or music, go see a drama if you're more of a comedy type person. Break out of your mold and expand your horizons.
You may even find that you like it.
Here's the reasoning though...We get so stuck in our day to day life that they become routine. We forget to marvel at the simple pleasures in our life any more because they are no longer "special." The simple act of trying something new can reawaken your love for the old.
Not to mention it opens your brain and can reawaken those stubborn creativity muscles. How many days have we sat down at the computer and stared at it blankly wishing for divine intervention? Well, sometimes you have to help the old muse along. Muses are fickle. They don't like to be bored. If you want their help, you have to pay it forward.

So step outside the box. Try something new, then come back and tell me all about it.

Taking care of you...

2011-05-09T17:47:00.000-07:00

As a writer we are in complete control of our characters. Yes, they may have minds of their own. Yes, they may travel down paths that lead to a dead end, causing you to backtrack (read: erase) many pages. But ultimately, we're the one really in control.
The same is true for ourselves. We are in control. We choose to get up and face the day with a positive attitude or as if we're walking to the guillotines. We choose to eat five brownies or one apple. We choose to lay on the couch all day or to go for a walk in the sunshine.
We choose.
It's so simple really. We make choices all the time. So why is it we so rarely make the choice to take care of ourselves? To put ourselves first?
Part of being a healthy writer is knowing when to put yourself first. You need to know when to refill the well. The how is up to you. But in order to be any good to anyone, you have to take care of YOU. It's hard. We have family and friends, husbands and children. We have work and after school activities. It's easier to say, "Sure! I'll come out to (fill in the blank)," because we haven't seen our third cousin twice removed's daughter's son in eight years. We want to spend time with these people. But be careful because that dinner date (or coffee date, or play date, or...well, you get the drift) doesn't always refill the well. Instead, it more often than not adds to the stress.
So take a moment today. Think about what you need to do to take care of you. Then schedule it. If you don't, the opportunity will slip through your fingers.

The ballet stretch

2011-05-02T08:15:00.000-07:00

Ever since I did this stretch at the end of a yoga section, I've been calling it The Ballet Stretch because I feel like I'm doing a ballet move...only lying down.
This is a great stretch for at the end of a long day, especially if you've been hunched over the computer, as it stretches the muscles at the front of your chest. This is especially important because as you hunch forward and those muscles tighten, they will continue to pull your shoulders forward even after you've stepped away from the computer unless you stretch them regularly.

This stretch is to be done 10 times on each side. Start out lying on your left side, with your arms out at a 90 degree angle from the rest of your body, one on top of the other. The sweep the top arm upward trying to keep your hand connected with the ground as you come around in a circle.
I love how effective this stretch is. As writers we spend so much time sitting in front of our computers, or reading a book, we don't even think about what it does to our bodies. Hopefully this will help with that a little bit.

Why exercise?

2011-04-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

Most of us seem to fall in to one of two camps: you either love exercise and do it willingly, or else you hate it and do it grudgingly. I fall somewhere in between the two. I used to hate exercise. I did it because I had to, and only when I had to. It was a means to lose weight, that's about it.
In the last year or so, I've finally come to view exercise as something different: it's a stress reliever. I don't think most of us realize this.
Exercise serves many purposes. Yes, it can help you to lose weight, or maintain a weight loss. But it has an even greater purpose: your mind. See, exercise increases blood flow everywhere, especially to your brain. The more blood flows to your brain, the better your brain can work.
It's that simple.
They've done many studies on this. One recent study by the National Institute of Health has recently released a study that shows a connection between exercise and lower rates of Dementia. Dr. John Medina has written an entire book on how the brain works, and devotes an entire chapter of to exercise and movement.
Exercise also helps to relieve stress. And yes, I realize many of us connect exercise with adding more stress, but the fact is, getting up and moving around will actually help to lower your stress level. For me, it's become what keeps me sane (or saner, according to my husband).
So here's my challenge to you (because exercise does not need to be horrible and painful), take a walk. That's it. Take a walk, once a day for 20 min. Or twice a day for 10. Or four times a day for 5. You get the picture. Get up and move! You may just come back with a great new idea.

Stretching those writer muscles...

2011-04-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

As writers we spend most of our time hunched over a computer. Or hunched over a book. Or hunched over our...well, you name it, we're probably hunched. I swear, it's a miracle most of us don't have a hump from sitting around the way we do.
So, what can you do to help it? Well, supposing you already have an ergonomic computer set up, the next best thing is stretching. Spending all that time hunched over means the muscles in your shoulders are probably getting weaker, while the muscles in your chest are way too tight. So, try this:
Stand in a doorway. Place your left hand against the door so that your arm forms a 90 degree angle. Step forward with one leg, gently pressing your chest past the door frame. You should feel a gentle pull across the left side of your chest. Now, switch sides and repeat with your right arm. Try doing this a few times a day. You'll be amazed at how good it feels.

A Healthier You...

2011-04-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

The other day I found myself in the bookstore looking at all the diet books, self-help books, beauty books, etc. and realized that everyone is out there trying to tell you the same thing: How to be a Healthier You. The last several years have been a journey in health for me as I've taken control of chronic problems that I've had for years. Now I'd like to share that journey with you, and hopefully inspire YOU to become the healthiest you, you can be.
They say the first step is recognizing you have a problem. This is usually followed by denial. In my case, both were true. About 9 years ago I was diagnosed with Repetitive Stress Injury in both my hands. All this really meant was that the doctors didn't really know what was wrong with me, they just knew I had a lot of pain. No one knew what to do, and I spent the next 9 years searching for alternative therapies to avoid creating more problems and the avoid potential surgery.

Now, 9 years later, I'm finally on the road to being pain free. At the same time, the weight I fought so hard to take off 12 years ago has started to creep back on. I'm frustrated by this, as I'm sure many of you can relate. So, what does this all have to do with you? Simple, the new direction for this blog is to help you, and in helping you help myself, become the healthiest writer I can be. To that end, you can look forward to healthy eating tips, losing weight strategies that I learned through my many years of working for one of the leading weight-loss programs, exercise tips, as well as some mental exercises to help you be healthy both physically and mentally.
First up? The stretch every writer must do.

***Disclaimer*** I am not a doctor, a nurse, a health practitioner of any kind. I'm not a personal trainer, and everything I share here are just ideas to get you started on a healthier road. Please talk to your doctor before starting a new physical routine.

New directions...

2011-04-04T18:43:00.000-07:00

Those of you who have been following this blog for any great amount of time may have noticed that I've gotten more sporadic in my postings over the last year or so. I could give you a bunch of stories about the reasons for this, but I prefer not to dwell in the past too much. Instead, I'd like to look toward the future. Over the next few weeks I will begin the next phases of this blog. It's a new direction for me, but the right direction. Check back next week to see what's in store for you all.

Back on track...

2011-03-13T15:20:00.000-07:00

Sometimes all it takes is a little rest and relaxation to get back on track. Over mid-Winter Break R and I took our honeymoon. We went on a cruise to the Mexican Riviera. While there we snorkled, and parasailed. We sat in the sun and soaked it in (hey, living in Washington that vitamin D was in desperate need).
Part of my relaxation routine was hitting the gym on board. There is something about being able to watch the water float by while I walked/ran on the treadmill got all my creative muscles firing. I had more ideas race through my head in those 40 min. sessions than I've experienced in good long while.
I couldn't wait to come home and get to work. And I did. I began working on a middle grade novel that my mind has played with since last October. It's on the backburner for a few weeks now, while I finish up report cards and my new Board entries, but the fire and the passion for the writing are still there.
And that's all I need to get back on track.

I forgot...

2011-02-10T21:24:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I forget the most basic things, those things that feed my soul and make me happy. They are simple, everyday things too. Like music. Not music in the car, or music on your iPod, but music you can hear throughout the house. The CD you stick in just to relax and come down from all the craziness and running around of the day.
It's easy to forget. I haven't had an actual CD player in years. In the apartment, I always just used my computer. Now, the computer is in my office. Music doesn't leave that room, unless I turn it way up. So when I come home, the television often goes on to act as background noise and break the silence. It's been on a lot lately, since R is still working on the other side of the state. But I missed my music. So over the weekend R and I treated ourselves to a CD player that can be heard throughout the condo...without being turned up to the max. One we'll have for years to come.
And now it sits in my dining room, happily playing my mix of French Jazz, while I do my laundry and make lunch for tomorrow.
I'm lovin' it! It's like a piece of my soul has been returned. It's got my creativity flowing again, in a most unexpected way.
What have you forgotten lately? What feeds your soul that you've been ignoring?

My life is mine again...

2011-01-23T20:33:00.000-08:00

Well, sort of.
I was warned about a month ago that it was normal if I felt a sense of malaise after the wedding. And recently I've seen several articles online and in magazines talking about this phenomenon. Apparently after spending upwards of a year planning the "perfect day," getting back to real life can lead to the blues.
Thankfully, I have not experienced this. In fact, I felt a sense of release once the wedding was over. Now, don't get me wrong. It was the most beautiful event I could have wanted. The night was wonderful and amazing, and now I'm married to my best friend.
The release comes in knowing that all the planning, all the meetings, all the time consuming little details are OVER.
Done.
Fini.
My life is mine again.
I spent the first week exhausted. I can't imagine taking our honeymoon right now. I wouldn't have had the energy! So I tried to get back into my workout schedule, and returned as many borrowed items as possible. This weekend I read Susan Elizabeth Philips much-anticipated Call Me Irresistible, and loved it! Today, after Ray left to drive back for work tomorrow, I ran errands, hit the gym, read. I relaxed for the first time in what felt like months.
Most importantly, I feel like writing again. I feel like I've had time to refill the well, finally, and that I can be creative once more.
And all I have to say for that is Hallelujah!
I'm starting small. My friends know I like to have weekly goals for myself. A guideline to keep me on track and moving forward. These same friends were the first to kick me in the rear when not meeting those goals almost sent me into a corner to rock back and forth. Now, those same goals energize me. They are small, manageable, but infinitely doable. And that's just what I need right now to get myself back in the saddle.

Winter cleaning...

2011-01-09T12:55:00.000-08:00

Some people go through a major cleaning in the spring. I like to do it in the winter. This year, it has been a month long process of pulling out sweaters I really shouldn't wear any more, and finding a new home for the dishes I won't be using soon.
Today marks one week before the big day. How am I spending it? Cleaning. And I'm strangely excited about this. It's like by cleaning the condo today, I'm leaving it open for all sorts of wonderful energy tomorrow and for the rest of the week. Plus, then I'm not panicking about how long it has been since I vacuumed when my grandparents insist on seeing the new couch.
Do you like cleaning? Does it refresh you or repulse you? Inquiring minds want to know...

2011-01-03T19:34:00.000-08:00

<a href="http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-US&from=sp&vid=079cd314-c39a-451a-88de-697f7c5c4548" target="_new" title="Happiest Penguin Ever">Video: Happiest Penguin Ever</a>
This is kind of how I'm feeling this week. In a good way, of course. Lots going on, and not a lot of time to just stand around and enjoy it all. Still, it's all for a great reason, so I'll take it. Less than two weeks, my friends, and life will change forever. Or at the very least, I'll have an additional ring to weigh my hand down.
Happy New Year to you all!

Thoughts on the year...

2010-12-20T21:51:00.000-08:00

Winter break has always been a time of relaxation for me. A chance to recharge and revive. This year it's also a time for me to look back on all the amazing events of the last year.

I began the National Board process. This can take up to three years, and is a very intense process.
I planned a wedding. This has been an amazing journey. It has challenged me in ways I never would have imagined, but I have come out stronger for it.
I continued to turn my condo into a home. Ray replaced all the lighting in the condo, creating a more warm and welcoming feel.
I finished and polished my YA novel, and began work on another Contemporary novel. While the first begins to make the submission rounds, the second is about 1/4 the way done. This is my 7th or 8th manuscript (it's getting hard to keep track people).
My writing support group morphed and grew, and I can now count some of the most amazing women, writers, and people as my friends. I love you all! (and yes, you know who you are).

As the year 2010 draws to its close, take a moment and think about all the blessings in YOUR life. It's so easy sometimes to glom on to the negative, but the positive has so much more power.

Really?

2010-12-10T06:23:00.000-08:00

Are you sure it's December? What do you mean it's almost the middle of the month? Yikes! So much to get done, and I'm not even talking Chanukah, since that ended yesterday. Nope, we're talking finishing touches people. The wedding is so close I can see the lights of it shining over the horizon. They are big, red, and flashing lights, warning me not about marriage, but about the myriad of tiny little details I need to put on this thing.
Details that frankly no one will notice if they are or aren't there. That's probably why I've left them this long. I'm not a detail person, I'm more of a big picture kind of gal.

How about you? Do you like to focus in on the minutae? Or are you more of a whole shebang kind of person?

Of showers, hats and more...

2010-11-20T20:36:00.000-08:00

I just came home from the bridal shower my aunt threw for me. We went to one of my favorite places, The Queen Mary Tea Shop and enjoyed wonderful tea and yummy treats. But better than all that tea (which yes, I'm still buzzing from), were my friends. I laughed, I cried (yes, I'm a sap), and I felt loved. What better way to celebrate the upcoming changes to my life?
A few highlights from the affair:
A happy hat to "watch over me" (no, literally, it has an eye).
Marriage/Life advice - including lots of reminders to focus on what is really important in life.
Tea!
A giant rolling pin (seriously! It's longer than my torso).
A giant wooden cutting board (this puppy can inflict serious damage).
Several hours of laughing with my family and friends.

Now comes the ultimate decision though...do I wait to use all my goodies until after the wedding? Or do I indulge now? Hm...decisions, decisions.

To feed my mild Star Wars obsession...

2010-11-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

My lovely friend Eileen had this link posted the other day, and I couldn't help but share it myself. Anyone who knows about me well, knows that I just about peed my pants laughing at this. And considering it's the middle of report cards, I needed that laugh.
So, for your viewing pleasure, go here and see what the Evil Dark Lord of the Sith does on his time off.

An open letter to the man sitting in the car next to me...

2010-10-27T18:51:00.000-07:00

Air-quotes are a very important visual tool. They come in pretty handy when I want to make a point. Wildly gesticulating also helps me to get my points across.
But neither make a darn bit of difference when the person you're talking to IS ON THE OTHER END OF YOUR CELL PHONE.

Realizations, but not revelations.

2010-10-19T21:13:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just have to give in and realize you can't do it all. This is probably the hardest lesson in the world for me. But about the time I was using my lunch break (and my last real break for the day) to call Verizon about my wonky phone, it really hit home.
I'm not Superwoman.
I know, shocker, right? I blame the movie, "Supergirl," for planting the idea in my head that I could have it all. I mean, she beat Faye Dunaway! Clearly I was mislead.
So I'm really going to do my best over the next 89 days to cut myself some slack and recognize when I'm going overboard. And if I don't, I'm sure someone will yell at me (much like they did last night and today).

How about you? What's your latest realization?

Some days...

2010-09-29T21:50:00.000-07:00

Some days you just need a call from your best friends. They aren't the happiest days, and yet they are some of the best. They make you laugh, they make you think, and most of all they don't let you take yourself too seriously.
We all need someone like this. We need the friend who has your back unconditionally. Who knows all your secrets. Who would sit next to you in jail and say, "Dang, that was fun!" Who tells you when the dress looks stupid, or when the hair-do is fabulous.

In my latest manuscript, my main character has two of those friends. One is a co-worker, the other has been her friend for years. Neither is afraid to tell it to her like it is, and call her on all her, um, stuff.

NY C is one of mine, and I can't wait to see her in the next few months. Who's yours?

I was funnier five years ago...

2010-09-25T17:30:00.000-07:00

I've been reading through some old blog posts lately, and realized something very important. I was a lot funnier five years ago. I'm not sure why, exactly. I can honestly say I'm very happy with my life these days. Maybe I'm under more stress? Maybe I just have a lot on my plate? Maybe facebook posts have killed my blog? Who knows.
But in honor of the blog the way it used to be, I thought I'd share a couple random thoughts I've had in the last couple of days:
-It doesn't seem to matter what time of year you're driving. Bugs go kamikaze any time of year. It was so bad recently that I could barely see through my windshield. What I did see appeared to be thousands of hail-sized bugs aiming straight for me on a suicide path.
-Wedding registries are weird. They are the opportunity to ask for things from people you'd never have the guts to ask for in person. I'd never ask anyone to get me some of this stuff for my birthday, but apparently because I'm getting married, it's okay?

So it's your turn now, what's your random thought for the week?

It's not a wedding unless...

2010-09-14T22:15:00.001-07:00

According to books I've read, and my family, it's not a Jewish wedding without lots of music and dancing.
Now, according to the newest viral video, it's not a wedding without Jewish (themed) music. Feel free to discuss amongst yourselves...

Night out with the girls...

2010-08-31T19:06:00.000-07:00

There is nothing more treasured than time spent with some of your favorite people. With all the traveling back and forth I've done this summer, I feel like I haven't spent enough time with all my favorite people.
But then I get together with my Girls and it's like we were just out to dinner the night before. I need that time. It recharges me more than anything.

What recharges you?

The thing about writing is...

2010-08-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

Here's the thing about writing: When you are a writer, you're writing every time you think about the book. You don't need to be at the computer, or with pen in hand. When you brainstorm, critique, or ponder your characters, you're writing.
It's taken me a long time to get my head around that concept. I joke that I'm "slacker writer" because my page count doesn't match the higher counts of my critique partners. But it's a joke, because even if I'm not actively writing, I'm pondering. And that pondering helps the pages flow better when I do sit down.

How about you? What is something you love to do, that you don't always have as much time for as you'd like?

On the road again...

2010-07-27T08:17:00.000-07:00

I'm very jealous of all my writer friends who are currently winging their way to RWA Nationals in Orlando this year. My only consolation is that next year it's in NY and I'm there! It's not like I haven't gotten to travel this summer, cause I have. In fact, much of it is mini-road trips to see my honey. So I've discovered the wonderful concept of books on CD. The last time I tried these, I always went for books I knew. Books that were familiar, and that I knew would make me laugh. This time around, I'm trying authors I know but books I haven't read. So far they keep me entertained...as long as I have enough caffeine. And yes, we all know what caffeine does to me. But as R puts it, I have about a 2 hour attention span, and the trip is 3 hours.
You do the math.
Right now I'm "reading" JD Robb's Salvation in Death. Not sure what I'll pick up next. One friend suggested the Harry Potter series. Any other suggestions?

In which wedding planning ensues...

2010-07-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

I met a co-worker for coffee the other day and she asked how the wedding planning was going. I told her we'd just about settled on a venue, so pretty well. Then she asked when the wedding was. "Next summer, right?"

Erm...no.

No, it's in just over 6 mos. actually.

Eep! Is it any wonder that my big project for the summer is to get as much planned for this shindig as possible? Still having some of the more important details figured out at this point definitely helps.

And anyway, it's all fodder for my books, right?

Right?

***PS...no, this is not my dress.***

Sunny days...

2010-07-08T11:44:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry. I know it's hot out. I know you don't want to be trapped in your car running errands (most likely). And I know that being on a diet sucks.

But please, leave me and my light Green Tea Frappucino alone. Don't covet. Don't sigh and force yourself to stop banging your head against the car door in a vain attempt to get at me.

Just give in. Go buy yourself one. It's hot out. You deserve it.

As for me? I'm trying to work up the courage to go knock the wasp's nest growing on my porch out, so I can enjoy sitting in the shade. Wish me luck!

You know you're a writer when...

2010-06-25T14:39:00.000-07:00

On a cruise to Bermuda, the only thing to calm you down after a meltdown of epic proportions is writing the opening scene for your new manuscript.

Inspiration...

2010-06-09T05:47:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the hardest part about being a writer is not being around other writers. Other times, that's the best part.
Last night was one of those times.
Writing is interesting. There are so many avenues to consider, and as the writer, you get to play puppet master.
As P.M., I've been struggling for MONTHS trying to figure out the hero of my current WiP. I couldn't get a lock. But last night I had a breakthrough. I finally figured out his deal, his shtick, his motivation.
And realized I was writing the wrong book.
D'oh!
Well, at least I was only 30 pages in. And some of it can still be used. But a lot can't. I guess it's time to get cracking...

How to make me smile in the morning...

2010-05-30T21:15:00.000-07:00

Stand on the overpass above I-90 and wave for no apparent reason. Made me smile for the rest of the day.

What has made you smile recently?

Birthday musings...

2010-05-23T21:16:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows by now how much I love celebrating birthdays. Not just mine, but anyone else's too. I believe in celebrating for the entire month if I can get away with it. This is sad, really, because I really don't like having to actually plan it all. I'd much rather that took care of itself.
Last year's birthday was the big 3-0, and I clearly took this to mean big changes. So, let's recap what-all I did in my 30th year:
-Bought a condo
-Moved into condo
-Finished another manuscript
-Started (slowly) to work on manuscript number 7
-Completed my National Boards (though I won't know results for 6 more months)
-Turned in Maisy the Milan for MayBelle the Forester
-Got engaged
-Began to plan a wedding
You know, when I look at it this way it becomes painfully obvious why I'm so excited for Summer Vacation.

Note to the man jogging on the trail the other day...

2010-05-16T21:12:00.000-07:00

Please put on pants, instead of those super-tight shorts. I really don't need to see what-all you have. Also, please make sure your t-shirt fits. I understand it's your favorite, and that your wife accidentally shrunk it in the dryer, but that does not mean you should continue to wear it. If you simply can't bear to throw it out, then donate it to a good cause. Just please, please do not wear it. The sight of your rounded belly hanging out the bottom really almost ruined my walk.

Thank you.

Reminders of childhood...

2010-05-09T20:21:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks have been full of reminders from childhood. The big one is my return to swimming. My gym opened a new location near the condo, and they have a pool. I've taken to swimming at least 1-2 times a week. I used to love swimming and being in the water, but go out of the habit as I grew older. This may have had something to do with lack of access.
Not only do I swim there, but I've also started participating in the water aerobics class. This class reminds me so much of the stuff my sister and I would do in the pool when we were growing up. Minus the handstands of course. But it involves lots of jumping around, and hanging on to the side and kicking for all I'm worth.
And, thanks to our beautiful weather, R and I pulled out our baseball gloves this weekend and threw around the softball. Lil' Sis joined us today for more softball fun. I played on our school team in middle school and high school, but not since. It was great to know I still have it in me...even if my throwing arm is clearly weak and prone to pain.

What have been your recent reminders of childhood?

What I'm reading...

2010-04-11T18:10:00.000-07:00

It's the end of Spring Break, and I've used my time very, very wisely. I spent it reading, of course. I looked at this last week as a time to fill the well.

And to possibly test myself on how much reading I can still do in a week.

Now it's Sunday night, and I've finished 4 books and started a 5th. The were all fantastic reads, but my favorite still has to be The Girl Who Chased the Moon, by Sarah Addison Allen. She has such a magical (no pun intended) way of writing. There's something about knowing I had a full week all to myself (sort of), with nothing pressing to worry about. With Boards basically done, there was nothing dangling over my head any more.

It's such a fabulous feeling. I wish I could bottle it up and partake of it any time the well felt dry. Sadly, that's not an option.

Instead I'll soon dive back into my novel writing, and the Great Agent Hunt. Between the two, the well should slosh around just fine I think.

What about you? How did you spend the weekend?

I'm not here right now...

2010-03-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

I'm out celebrating finally finishing my NB entries. Whew! I thought this day would never come. Now it's time for rest and relaxation, right?

What do you mean I'm supposed to go back to work tomorrow? Isn't this my time to enjoy the fruits of my labors?

Oh, fine. Be that way. I'll celebrate tonight, go back to work tomorrow and start it all over again. But at least the portfolio will be done.

And this one...

2010-03-22T20:37:00.000-07:00

But shhhh...don't tell R I put him up here. He might not like it.

Creativity has been sucked out of me...

2010-03-15T20:35:00.003-07:00

I'm sure it will return some time around April 1st. Until then, enjoy this picture. Oh, how I wish i was back there.

Contest Opportunity!

2010-03-10T19:45:00.000-08:00

My good friend Emily is running a contest in conjunction with the release of her latest online novella, A DUKE FOR ALL SEASONS. Each month my readers vote for the direction the story should take and I write the next chapter. March is the last month a vote will enter readers in my March 31'st drawing for a $100 gift card. The link to the contest is: http://www.emilybryan.com/contest.htm
Now, even if you're not a huge historical reader, you know you want a chance to win, so what are you waiting for? Go vote!

I'm trying

2010-03-06T08:30:00.000-08:00

to be a better blogger. So here you go, the second post in a week. Go me!
I have about 4 weeks left to finish my National Boards, and I've come to some serious realizations:
1) It is not fun analyzing yourself. Especially not when you do it over. And over. And over.
2) It's way more fun writing books.
3) I used to be able to work on two projects at a time. Those days are long gone. Now I'm lucky if I can work on one project at a time.
4) Did I mention analyzing yourself stinks?
5) Too much thinking leaves you with a serious hurting brain, and no amount of ibuprofen or aspirin will help it.
6) There is a light at the end of the tunnel. But the light is very far away and somewhat dim.

But I'm almost there, for better or for worse. Then it's back to 52 Weeks and planning my wedding. Gosh, why do those two things sound so easy right now?

At a loss for words?

2010-03-03T20:27:00.001-08:00

This is how I'm feeling right now.
I find that lately I'm feeling decidely un-witty. This could be due to many reasons. I'm going to chalk it up to the biggest reason...stress.
Stress sucks, did you know that?
So rather than try to think of some long rambling musing, I'm going to leave you with this:
http://weffriddles.com
It's evil. R turned me on to it last weekend and I spent 2 hours trying to solve one riddle. It's completely addictive.
And you just gotta give it a try. Here's a hint, make sure you keep a word document or text document of the clues, because you may need them at various points.

So odd...

2010-02-14T10:02:00.000-08:00

I've always been amused by how people connect. Some days it seems so very random. Case in point, several months back, an old friend from sleepover camp found me. Now, I've blocked most camp memories from my mind, as frankly, they are too scarring to deal with. Let's just say I'm not, nor have I ever been, a good overnight camper. She found me on facebook through one of my cousins, and asked to friend me.
But it's getting to be even crazier. Now I'm starting to get postcard from wedding venues...despite not having contacted them about my engagement. Facebook, because of my "engaged" status, now recommends photographers, stationary types, and other wedding-ish ideas.
And it just keeps coming. No wonder some brides go crazy early on. We haven't set a date, we haven't talked about much (really, all my fault, I swear), and yet I'm still inundated with wedding stuff.
It's just so odd.

Sunday morning musings...

2010-02-07T14:20:00.000-08:00

My brain is too scattered this week to pull together anything remotely coherent, so you get to benefit...
1) Yesterday was an absolutely beautiful day. The sun was shining, the temps were mild. It was the perfect day for a walk on the waterfront, and I spent it indoors.
2) It's important to set goals for yourself, even if the only goal is to be out of bed by 10 a.m.
3) Sometimes a walk around Greenlake is the perfect way to start your day. It's even better when Starbucks has your tea to make your tea latte.
4) Sometimes you just have to be proud you didn't steal the donut.
5) Sometimes a video game is the perfect soundtrack to your work...especially when you have to get said work done and don't want to be distracted by the television.

What are your random thoughts this Sunday?

Wandering...

2010-01-24T13:00:00.000-08:00

Since I moved into my condo a couple of months ago, I've taken to wandering my new neighborhood. Partially I'm trying to familiarize myself with it, partially I want to see what kind of homes there are. But there's a small part of me that's looking at these houses and picking out a few and thinking to myself, "I could live there one day."
*snort*
I've been a homeowner since October and I'm already looking for my next place.

What have you been up to in this dreary weather (though admittedly, it's been beautiful the last few days)?

Random thoughts...

2010-01-19T19:04:00.000-08:00

Why is it we so often hear the bad news but rarely the good? I've started watching a new (to me) show on HGTV called Holmes on Homes. In a nutshell Mike Holmes, contractor extraordinaire, goes around the country fixing the mistakes other contractors have made...but refuse to fix. His show, while not my cup of tea as far as it's all construction, reminds me there are still good people out there trying to make a difference.
In other news, I've veered from my normal reading to pick up Have a Little Faith by fellow Detroiter Mitch Albom. It leaves me crying half the time, but I don't care. It's well written and I constantly find myself mulling over what he has said at different points in the book. This is my favorite part about reading. When a book sticks with me long enough that I find I can't stop thinking about it.
Of course, I also love the lighter reads that don't require me to polish off a box of kleenex while I read. It all just depends on my mood I guess.
So I've shared my randomness with you, now it's your turn. What's on your mind this week?

You know you're engaged to a geek when...

2010-01-04T21:45:00.000-08:00

He sends you a spreadsheet comparing your current car to the 4 other makes/models you're considering swapping it for. I do love this man.

Goodbye 2009

2009-12-31T15:24:00.000-08:00

I've been hearing a lot about how this is the end of the decade lately. It's making many people nostalgic as they think back over the last ten years. Personally, I was clueless until yesterday. That just goes to show where my attention is these days.
Rather than think about this decade or the next decade, I'd rather focus on most recent events. 2009 has been a year of mass changes for me. I tried my hand at writing young adult fiction, I bought my first condo/home, and I got engaged. It doesn't sound like all that much when I look at it...only three things really. But these are all fairly major accomplishments.
Looking forward to the next year, I forsee changes continuing. I can't wait to see what happens next, but I'm fully enjoying the right here, right now.
Happy New Year to you all!

Best wishes...

2009-12-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

As I sit here at my future mother-in-law's house, amidst much Christmas excitement (I know, odd for a good, little Jewish girl), I wanted to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.
It's been a very exciting week for me, and I'm still adjusting. What better way to do that than with forced relaxation and several good books? Right now I'm re-reading Nalini Singh's Mine to Possess in preparation of reading Hostage to Pleasure (I'm a little behind these days). I'm also getting to read the new hit in my classroom, The Lightening Thief.
Winter Break is one of my favorite times of year because there's little time for me to get bored, but just enough time for me to recharge.
So what are you reading right now? What books do you recommend I get for my Kindle? Inquiring minds want to know.

Few things

2009-12-20T15:23:00.000-08:00

There are few things in life that overshadow all else. Usually these are the negative, but this week I'm choosing to focus on the positive.

Winter Break...we all need a chance to recharge.
Friends and family
Someone who loves us above all else.

So here's smiling on all of you. I love sharing my thoughts with you, and I especially love hearing from you. What are some of your positives this week?

Chanukah and all that jazz...

2009-12-13T20:49:00.000-08:00

I hope you all were able to come join me over at Emily Bryan's blog last Friday. Emily invited me over to share a little of my Chanukah traditions, as well as a recipe. If you didn't get a chance, you can visit here.

A few of the readers followed up with some questions about Chanukah, and I thought I'd take this week's blog to answer them. Please remember that I am NOT the spokeswoman for all things Jewish. Some families have different traditions and beliefs. Everything that follows here is my understanding, and there may be some inaccuracies.

First off, both spellings are correct. You can spell it Chanukah (which is translated from the Hebrew letters used to spell the word) or Hannukkah. I promise, you won't offend me if you use one over the other. My guess is that the second spelling comes more from American traditions, where the "ch" sound is unproducable by over half the country (see The Boy).

Second, despite common misconceptions, Chanukah is a minor holiday. It has become bigger mostly due to the proximity to Christmas. In short, it's the celebration of a miracle that occured after the Maccabee's defeated the Seleucid Empire. The Seleucid Empire had desecrated the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. After battling, and eventually defeating the Empire, the Maccabees set off to re-consecrate the temple. The oil used to light the lamps was only supposed to last a day, and it last eight. This is why we celebrate Chanukah for 8 nights and 8 days. With that said, it is still considered fairly minor when compared with most of our other Holy Days, such as Rosh Hashanah.

Third, the gifts. This one is very dependent on the family. I do not remember ever receiving one gift a night for 8 nights. I wouldn't have made it that long. If you ask the Boy, he'll vouch for me. I'm horrible at waiting. Heck, if my parents didn't insist, half my presents were opened the week before. Traditionally, small amounts of Chanukah gelt, money, were given to children for Chanukah. Over time this has changed greatly. My opinion is that this tradition has changed due to Christmas and social pressure...but that's just my two cents. Typically my family does small gifts all around, but then again, that's just us.

I hope this gives you a little better idea about Chanukah. Feel free to ask questions, I promise I'll do my best to answer. And if I don't have the answer? Well, I'll try to find it for you.

Almost!

2009-12-09T21:08:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling very proud of myself, so I had to share. I've got almost all my Chanukah shopping done...and 2 days before the actual holiday!
Okay, so I like to leave things to the last minute. That's when I think of (or randomly find) the best gifts for people. Apparently I think well under pressure.
Of course, it's not all about the gifts, but it sure feels good to have that off my plate.

And in more exciting news...I'm guest blogging over at Emily Bryan's blog on Friday, in celebration of Chanukah. Come join me!

Back in the saddle...

2009-11-23T05:58:00.000-08:00

With the craziness of the new school year, finishing my YA manuscript, sending off requested partials of other manuscripts, getting into National Boards, and buying and moving into my condo let's just say writing hasn't been on the top of the list for a little while.
But that's about to change.
With the long Thanksgiving weekend approaching, and a handle on my grading for report cards, I'm planning to get at least a couple of pages done on my new manuscript. There are still a ton of kinks to work out, but just the act of pulling out the alphasmart to charge last night already has me feeling a little less shaky, a little less antsy.
Now, I'm not expecting to get a ton done. Not with so many people around. But a little bit. I'm good with a little bit. It's like dipping a toe into the baby pool.
What are your plans for Thanksgiving?

Settling in...

2009-11-17T18:59:00.000-08:00

The Stuff Fairy hasn't left the condo yet, but at least everything is finding a home. The Boy and I worked most of the weekend to finish putting away all that was left after Wednesday's move.
Okay, let's face it, I would have left it sitting in boxes through the weekend. I deserved the break! But knowing how irked this would make R, I gave in to the unpacking. Now my office is mostly useable, my bedroom is gorgeously neat, and my living room is oh, so comfy.
This doesn't mean I refrained from launching a few koosh slingshots at him, though.
I'll have pictures for you soon, but we all know the disaster that is my camera. Plus, I'm drowning in report cards. So I'll leave my Toasted Coconut office to your imagination for now.

Quickie...

2009-11-09T20:48:00.001-08:00

Dad's in town, the rain is back, and the move is on. Needless to say the week is a wee bit crazy. Thankfully, the crazy has sent me back to the gym tonight, with plans to go back tomorrow. It's been too easy to let most of my good habits slip over the last two months. The stress is definitely not good for me.
So it's back to the gym for me. How about you? What good habit are you getting back into?

Shtuff...

2009-11-02T20:44:00.000-08:00

Where does it all come from? I swear, when I moved here 6 years ago I made it in a couple of car trips. The movers took all the heavy furniture, but they were done in a couple of hours...and that was with the monster stairs.
So where in the world did all this stuff come from? R and I took 4 loads of boxes to the condo this weekend...and there's still more! I'm pretty well convinced that the Stuff Fairy comes to visit me in the middle of the night and leaves behind piles for me to pack and shlep.

What does she leave you?

Favorite things...

2009-10-26T06:16:00.000-07:00

Everyone has their favorite time of year. Mine is usuallly the spring, when all the plants start to bloom again. That said, all seasons have at least one thing I like about them. Fall brings the leaves in all different vibrant shades. It's the time of year when I miss living in the midwest. This last weekend I got a taste of those colors when The Boy and I drove back to his hometown for a few days.

What are some of your favorite things?

Nap time?

2009-10-13T21:01:00.000-07:00

Is it nap time yet? I spent the weekend at the Emerald City Writers Conference, hosted by the Greater Seattle chapter of RWA. All I can say is, wow, what a weekend. I love going to our local conference. It's an opportunity to catch up with old friends, make some new ones, sing bad karaoke, and hopefully make some headway with my writing career.
This year is the one where I made headway.
A few months back I mentioned I finalled in the Emerald City Opener, the annual contest associated with this conference. Every year I think about entering, and this was the first year my nerves didn't talk my hands out of it. And boy, am I glad I followed through.
First was the call to tell me I finalled.
Then was the unbelievable moment when I heard my name announced as the...1st place winner! I'm still in shock. I swear, I sat there for a good 30 seconds before it sunk in. I'm so thrilled to have shared that moment with so many good friends. Their cheers drowned out my nerves for once.
Of course, now I'm home and it's time to button down and send out those lovely requests that the editors and agents I met are all eagerly waiting for.

Book Fair time!

2009-09-29T18:22:00.001-07:00

While I'm busy trying to find out if my floors are dry, while trying to stay dry, I thought I'd let you in on a fabulous book fair happening in just a couple of weeks.
The Greater Seattle Romance Writers of America is sponsoring a Book Fair on October 10, 2009 at the Bellevue Hilton. The event runs from 4:30-6:00 pm in the Skyview Ballroom and includes signing opportunities with more than fifty best selling and award winning authors including Cherry Adair, Susan Anderson, Claire Delacroix, Robert Dugoni, Yasmine Galenorn, Lisa Jackson, Susan Mallery, Bob Mayer, Katie MacAlister, Jane Porter, Christine Warren and many more. This is a free event and open to the public. The Bellevue Hilton is located at 300 112th Avenue SE in Bellevue, Washington. Their phone number is 425-455-1300. Visit www.gsrwa.org for more information and full list of authors.
GSRWA 2009 Book FairOctober 10, 20094:30-6:00 pmBellevue Hilton, Bellevue Washington300 112th Avenue SE in Bellevue, Washington.Free, Open to the publicFor more information: www.gsrwa.org

Updates

2009-09-24T21:30:00.000-07:00

Parent Night is over, and all left happy...well, as far as I can tell.
Beyond that, I was told today that the floors in the condo will be dry enough next Wednesday that I can bring my inspector back again. Hopefully I won't be calling him again for a good long while. As nice as he is, and as great an inspector as he is, I'm really not liking how much we've gotten to know one another. It's just not right.
So, keep your fingers crossed, folks. If all goes well, my current closing date may actually hold true!

New year, new plans?

2009-09-19T18:04:00.000-07:00

Why is it that the beginning of the new school year always means fewer blogs? It's like the teaching saps my creative energy. And it's been a whirlwind few weeks. For those of you wondering, no, I haven't moved yet. I haven't even closed yet. We're still working on the floor situation. But if the new year 5770 is in my favor, the final clean-up will run smoothly and quickly and I'll be in before the end of November. This is because I still plan to take my time once I close. I want to paint and set up a few important shelving options before I move myself in.
This hasn't kept me from thinking, planning, and basically driving The Boy and I crazy with all my ideas and wants.
And there are many of both.
In the meantime I'm re-focusing my energy on finishing my YA and gearing up for the ever-fabulous Emerald City Conference. The most exciting part? I get to find out if my manuscript won the Emerald City Opener. Woot!!
So it's been a busy few weeks, that's for sure. Here's to the rest of the new year running swimmingly.

A final look at summer...

2009-09-07T10:03:00.000-07:00

On the last day of this Labor Day weekend, I thought I'd leave you with one of my favorite images from the summer. It was taken at the river that runs near my aunt and uncle's cabin.

It's only been a week...

2009-09-01T19:16:00.000-07:00

Oh, don't look at me that way. It's not my fault my posts are few and far between these days.
Well, okay, it is. But it's not really. It's the first week of school. I'm closing on my condo. I have to paint said condo. And I actually managed to forget I have a nice long weekend this weekend.
See? It's not my fault, I've just lost my mind.
On the upside, I finalled in the Emerald City Opener contest, hosted by the Greater Seattle RWA chapter. I'm thrilled beyond belief, even if that thrill is slighly under the shadow of the fact that I'm about to hand over most of my savings to people I've only met a few times.
So what's keeping you up at night?

Finding my zen...

2009-08-24T08:02:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, I tend to stress about things. And not stress in a good way, but in a way that makes me into a raving loon. At least on the inside. I try to keep it in, keep it to myself, but eventually it all breaks free.
So this summer I've focused on finding my zen. It's been quite the experience. For example, did you know that apparently I need to work out 5 days a week? Crazy talk, for sure. But it's really helped. I also need to take time to relax. This might be reading a book, or watching House Hunters. It might be baking, or cooking dinner.
Even with buying a condo, I've been remarkably stress free this summer. I love it!
Now, if only I can hold it together when school starts back up. What do you do to find your zen?

I realized...

2009-08-15T13:23:00.000-07:00

how geeky I really am. I arrived home to discover my Kindle was finally delivered. My reaction? To rush in, wake the boy and show him.
I don't think he appreciated being woken up...but I sure appreciate my new toy.
So far I've only downloaded one book, mainly because I have so many physical ones left to read...but I'm not sure I can restrain myself for long. It's way too easy to buy books for this thing.
Eep! Maybe this wasn't such a good plan after all...

Visits, packing, and trips...oh my!

2009-08-05T08:21:00.000-07:00

Last week one of my dearest friends from high school came to visit. She visits about once a year, so finding new and fun stuff to do is always a challenge. This time around we drove up to my aunt's cabin for a couple of days. It was so beautiful and so quiet up there. The best part? Lots of time to relax with good laughs.
She left the other day and now I've started packing up my books. I figure they are an easy place to start. I don't want to get too far ahead of myself, because frankly I don't have the space to put the boxes...but I needed to make a dent. It's weird, sitting here next to a nearly empty boookcase.
And very soon I'll be off to Vegas for Girls' Weekend. NYC and A (of last week's visit) will join me in laughing my rear off for a few days.
Now if I can just stay focused enough on my revisions before I leave...

Homeownership...

2009-07-28T19:51:00.000-07:00

I've discovered a new danger to homeownership, but before I share I'll tell you that I just made a deal to purchase a condo. Big step for me, considering I still watch cartoons many days.
Then I discovered a very large, very real danger...
Tar-jay. Target to those of you not in the know.
I went there to buy a fan, which apparently they've been sold out of since Saturday. I stayed to pick up a few other items. That's when I realized my mistake.
See, Target has everything. They have shower heads, toilet seats, window shades/blinds/sheers/valances, wall hooks, organizational caddies...I could go on. Thankfully, a friend called me to congratulate me, and was very persuasive when she said, "Get out of there, now!"
She was right. I haven't even closed, and I'm already ready to buy all sorts of doodads, gadgets, and various other pretties.
So dangerous...
Which of course begs the question...what is your "danger" store?

Save the School of Gallantry Series

2009-07-23T08:03:00.001-07:00

Frequent readers of this blog know I love to share what I'm reading. Even more, I love to support other writers...especially those I can count among my friends. Delilah Marvelle is one of those writers. She's the author of the deliciously sexy Mistress of Pleasure, one of my top recommendations from last year.
Her next book, Lord of Pleasure, will release Aug. 4th, and you know I'll be at the store waiting to bang the door down.
Unfortunately, her publisher has decided to end this decadent series...which means Lord of Pleasure will be the last in the School of Gallantry. But maybe, if we all go and buy a copy, it doesn't have to be the last.
So August 4th, get thee to the bookstore to purchase Lord of Pleasure by Delilah Marvelle. You won't regret it!

Hot stuff...

2009-07-18T11:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Seattle Metro area, where the average temp has hovered in or near the 80's for the last couple of weeks. Yesterday may have hit 90. This kind of weather usually only hits for a few days every summer, before returning us to our normal low to mid-70's. This year, it's lingering.
While admittedly I'm not a hot-weather kind of gal, I've been loving this weather. Gorgeous weather means early morning bike rides, long walks, evening walks, and lazy afternoons on my balconey reading and watching the air.
Amidst all this relaxation, I've managed to get in some crucial revision time on my YA, as well as begun to play with an idea for my next manuscript. I'm beyond excited to start that project. It's going to be a lot of fun to write, and a bit of a return to some of my favorite styles of writing.
This weekend brings visitors to town, good food, and maybe even a festival or two.
What are your plans?

Sunshine-y day...

2009-07-11T13:20:00.001-07:00

It's so beautiful outside, I just had to share. We've had the most amazingly beautiful summer since I moved here. Of course, it's beautiful and I should be inside working on my YA revisions.

I may have to go play instead.

How are you spending this lovely weekend?

How are you spending your summer vacation?

2009-07-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

If you're anything like me, you're spending it trying to do all the things you put off during the rest of the year...filing, shredding, reading.
Ah, reading. It was so nice to sit down on my couch the other day and just read. And read. And read some more.
I think I'm probably trying to cram as much reading into my summer as I can, since I know I won't have nearly as much time to enjoy it during the rest of the year. In light of this, I thought I'd share some of my more recent reads, which include (but are not limited to):

Mr. Cavendish, I Presume by Julia Quinn
How to Ruin My Teenage Life by Simone Elkeles
Oh. My. Gods. by Tera Lynn Childs
The Neighbor by Lisa Gardner

And I'm currently in the middle of Adios to my Old Life by Caridad Ferrer and Brain Rules by John Medina.

So many books, so many thoughts. Strangely, the best part of all this reading is that it's giving my creative brain the break it needs to really think through my current WiP. I've made more progress on revisions and edits since I've had the time to read, simply because I'm more relaxed about it all. Which doesn't make the revision process any easier, really, but at least the ideas are there.

Home sweet home...

2009-07-02T11:35:00.000-07:00

I'm finally home from L.A. (well, technically, I got home on Sunday, but haven't really been in MY home all week), with lots of pictures. What a great way to start my summer break! Sun, good food, fabulous friends, and flights that took off and landed on time.
What more can a gal ask for?
Pictures you say? Well, that I can do. So while I'm working on revisions and marvelling that I haven't managed to kill the orchid a student gave me, enjoy!
It's all about brunch. Or was it lunch? Frankly, time seemed to run together. But The Newsroom, just up the road from the now famous Ivy, had some of the best french toast ever!

After a long day wandering around Los Angeles, we drove up to The Getty Museum. The museum has some of the best views in the city. After wandering through one of the photo exhibits, and grabbing a snack, we took a few moments to relax before getting ready for the evening's entertainment...The Groundlings Theater.
The trip would not have been complete without a visit to Venice Beach. Have I mentioned how much I love the water? And the beach? I wanted to stay here all day...but we had things to do.

Like find C's fiance who'd gone off to park the car. Eventually she called him to find out where he was. You'd think she was famous, the way she avoided the camera, though. She's got it down to an art.

Just a few more days...

2009-06-21T21:26:00.000-07:00

and then school is officially out for the year. It's been a roller coaster folks. This year really pushed my leadership skills, not to mention my teaching skills. It made me really think about how I am as a teacher, and as a person.
I'm going to miss these guys.
But, it's not all sad. Nope, not at all. With the end of the year comes a much needed, and well-deserved, break.
In the meantime, I got my nightstands and I ordered my coffee table. I can't wait to see it in my apartment. It's big, and takes up space, but it'll be such an improvment.

But alas, there are a few more days to go, so off to bed with my book & a cup of tea.

Almost there...

2009-06-18T06:26:00.000-07:00

As I'm closing in on the end of the school year once again, I'm finding my brain capacity for blog posts dwindling. Frankly I'm tired. Just tired. And my brain is pudding on top of it all.
I sit in meetings and I hear stuff...important stuff! I just can't absorb it any more.
So rather than think about how many report cards I still have left to write, or how many assessments are left to grade, I've decided to look at the positive stuff coming up in my life.
Including but not limited to:

my first visit to LA.
Girls' trip to Las Vegas (also first time ever)
paring down my TBR shelf
Nightstands!
A Kindle?
more sunny days that I can actually enjoy

There's more. So much more. Like I said before though, my brain is pudding. So this'll have to do. What are you looking foward to?

Givin' it up for free...

2009-06-11T20:51:00.000-07:00

Those of you deeply saddened by the loss of your very own copy of Giving Up the V, never fear! Not only has this fabulously sweet and funny book FINALLY released, but author Serena Robar is Giving It Away For Free (the only time Momma would approve).

Serena Robar is giving it away for free the entire month of June. That’s right. A book a day, every day in honor of her latest book release Giving Up the V. All you have to do to is sign up for her newsletter and you are entered to win. Enter once and you are in the running to win a book every day the entire month of June.

*Contest only open to US and Canada

More fun!

2009-06-08T20:47:00.001-07:00

As the end of the school year approaches several of my favorite YA authors are hosting contests. Check in over the next few days to hear about them...and make sure to come back by the end of the week to hear all about my tea party last weekend!
Our first contest offering hails from the ever-fabulous Eileen Cook. Eileen's a fellow Michigander, a fabulous friend, and funny as heck. If you haven't already read What Would Emma Do, then what are you waiting for?

CONTEST DETAILS
Remember your first serious relationship and how you celebrated every milestone? You couldn’t wait for your official one year anniversary because you were having so much fun you wanted to celebrate every milestone in between? This is the anniversary of our first date/kiss/time we said I love you.That’s how I feel about What Would Emma Do. End of June marks the six month celebration since it hit the shelf and that calls for a celebration and a celebration needs prizes.YOU COULD WIN A $75 GIFT CARD TO AMAZON/BARNES AND NOBLE/CHAPTERS/ OR INDEPENDENT BOOK STORE!!!!
Do you realize how much summer reading goodness you can buy with $75? You can order a copy of WWED for a friend, pre-order the nifty covered Getting Revenge on Lauren Wood and still have money left over for fun reads like: Swoon, Giving Up the V, Being Nikki, Look Both Ways, any of the recent GCC reads, or zillions of others! Think of all that book fun that could be yours. Be the envy of your friends!
Entering the contest is simple. Between now and July 2nd send me a link or email me if you do any of the following:- post on Facebook/MySpace/Your Blog about why you liked WWED, a review of the book, or why you want to add it to your to-be read list- Email your friends about the book- Email or write your library about the book- Email or write your local bookstore about the book- Choose WWED for your book club- Any other way you have of spreading the word!
All names will be entered to win. A winner will be selected at random and announced on July 3rd. It could be you!
Start planning your to-be-read list!

Another contest!

2009-06-05T06:08:00.000-07:00

Only this one isn't mine :)

My good friend Emily Bryan has another contest on her website. Check it out:
STROKE OF GENIUS CONTEST
Want to see your name on the acknowledgment page of Emily Bryan's next book? Here's your chance! Emily is giving her readers an opportunity to name an important secondary character in her upcoming STROKE OF GENIUS. The winner will receive signed copies of Emily Bryan's entire backlist (including A CHRISTMAS BALL anthology, due out Sept 29th). PLUS you'll be mentioned on the acknowledgment page of STROKE OF GENIUS. The contest begins June 1st and entries close July 1st. For more information, visit Emilybryan.com.

Any one else?

2009-06-01T06:05:00.000-07:00

Is anyone else besides me feeling the crunch? There's never enough time, we all know this. But now there's really not enough! Three weeks left of school, with at least four-five weeks worth of material I still want to cover. Oy.
On the other hand, three weeks until summer! It's felt like it around here, what with all the sun-shiney weather we've had. Bee-you-tee-ful!
So to celebrate summer's approach, please congratulate the winner of Giving Up the V...Allison (aka Anonymous). Wooh-hoo! I'll get it into the mail shortly.

I spent most of the weekend working, but managed to get some outdoor time in by rollerskating around Greenlake with The Boy. How about you? What did you do?

Contest Time!!

2009-05-22T08:01:00.001-07:00

I don't know about you, but I've been biding my time until I could post my latest contest. Since it's both my birthday and a holiday weekend, I decided to share the joy. Serena Robar's Giving Up the V comes out next month, but you can win it here early!

What Amazon.com has to say:

What's So Wrong With Waiting
Spencer Davis just turned sixteen. But unlike most hormonal teenagers who seem obsessed with sex -- like her entire crew of friends -- Spencer just doesn't get it. She'd rather wait for the right guy and the right moment. But that moment may be arriving sooner than she'd thought.
Enter Benjamin Hopkins, a new transfer student who seems to have his eyes on our V-card-carrying heroine. He's gorgeous, funny, suave, athletic, and capable of making Spencer's knees wobble with a single glance. Spencer has never felt this way about anyone before, but is Ben truly V-worthy?

I devoured this book in just a day once I got my greedy little hands on an ARC. Now it's your turn. Simply leave a comment telling me how you plan to celebrate the holiday weekend by Monday, 12 noon, and I'll draw a name at random to win a signed ARC of Giving Up the V.

Conversations with The Boy

2009-05-13T07:49:00.001-07:00

Me: I'm so excited! I have an idea for my next book.
Him: You just finished the other one. Don't you ever give yourself a break?

Oh, hon, so sweet :) But no. I don't.

Am I the only one?

2009-05-10T14:59:00.001-07:00

I tend to be a very vivid dreamer. I often remember my dreams, at least for the first few minutes. Longer if they really made an impression. My dreams tend to be more on the bizare-side of things, which most of the time I can handle. But this latest bought is just too much. Frankly, I'm blaming the big, beautiful full moon.
I'm a pretty good sleeper these days. A miracle, really, from how it used to be. In the last year I've developed the ability to fall asleep (most of the time) within the first few minutes. It's a skill The Boy envies a great deal.
Last night I was envying it. Took an hour to fall asleep, and this was already well past my usual turn in time. Then, once out? Bizarro dreams that refused to quit. They felt so real I thought I'd woken up and lived through 2 full days.
And this was before I actually woke up.
Definitely not a quality sleep night. Which I why I'm sitting here in great debate. Nap? Or write the last 5 pages of my manuscript.
Sleep. Write.
Sleep. Write.
Oy, just the decision alone is enough to drive me batty. What do you think I should do?

I had a great post...

2009-05-04T20:39:00.000-07:00

I swear, I had a great post in mind. It was fabulous! Entertaining, witty...it was all this and more.
Too bad I forgot it.
After a long few days, I'm back. Sorry about all the quiet, but it's been a little nutty around here. I know, I know, nothing new, right?
Right.
So in light of the fact I forgot the topic of my fantabulous post, you get the next idea floating through my head. And light that it's a Monday, and I'm very tired, I've decided to focus on some good things in my life, like:

fabulous family and friends
good books
entertaining movies
I'm so close to the end of my current WIP I can practically taste it

How about you? What are some good things in your life these days?

New toys...

2009-04-29T21:55:00.000-07:00

I'm testing my new toy tonight. I call it Dragon. It's the voice recognition software I have been waiting to buy. This is my way of continuing to write while also saving my hands. In fact, I'm using the software right now!
The test is going pretty well all things considered. I do a lot of deleting, correcting, and general gnashing of teeth. But I figure it's all worth it. Especially if it prolongs my ability to write and use my hands.
Of course it was pretty weird talking into my headset while the boy sat on the couch watching basketball the other day. I kept expecting him to comment on what I was "writing."
I can even secure file my nails why talk! What writer can say that? It's taking some getting used to, learning the commands for what I can change and what I can't. Supposedly the more I correct, the more it gets to know my voice and eventually I won't need to change half as much as I do now.
I really hope they're not wrong.
In meantime I'm having fun. Even if I do feel a little foolish.

Just when you think you're close, then knock you back down...

2009-04-23T17:23:00.000-07:00

I opened up the mail today to find the little slip of paper I've been waiting on. The little slip announcing a package in the manager's office. Wahoo! My Dragon NaturallySpeaking arrived. For those of you not in the know, DNS is voice recognition software. Theoretically, it should allow me to speak into a microphone, and have then type what I say. Crucial, in my opinion, if I'm to continue to write while working on my National Board Certification.
And yes, in case you're wondering, I probably am a bit on the crazy side.
So I have my software, I have my headset (which, to be honest, pinches a bit and will have to be replaced eventually. I have a small head, people, and yet this is too small for me. What about all the big-headed people in the world?), I have my computer, I have the will to train the software to recognize my speech variances (I said hockey, not hackey). What I don't have? Is a DVD-rom drive.
Sigh.
Just when I was set to spend the rest of the evening on it...
Good thing The Boy is a techie, and a talented one at that. Fry's, here we come.

Working weekend...

2009-04-19T16:26:00.000-07:00

It's been a weekend of work, writing, cleaning and errands. Yesterday, after working in the morning, the boy and I ran errands for the bulk of the day. This includes stopping at two separate Barnes and Nobles to find a copy of Cathy Yardley's Turning Japanese (along with Confessions of a Little Black Dress by Elizabeth Boyle and Sudden Death by Allison Brennan).
Today was the day to clean, clean, clean. I'm on wash load two, with at least two to three more on the way, as I'm in a fit of spring cleaning apparently.
And the cleaning bug hasn't only struck me. The Boy took it upon himself to clean off one of my counters (where did you put that tray again?), and is currently helping out by removing some liquid adhesive stuff from a plate/cup set of mine.
Through all this, I still got about 8 pages written, plus ordered my copy of Dragon NaturallySpeaking 10.
What have you been up to?

Oh, my head...

2009-04-15T21:03:00.000-07:00

As a writer, I'm always looking for ways to make my books stronger. It's my job. Making each book better than the last is the goal.
In light of this, I found myself listening to a workshop from last summer's National Conference on my walk tonight. The topic? How to heat up your manuscript. Not the specific title, but the topic. The speaker was engaging, and full of good advice. She was thought provoking and entertaining all at the same time. The problem? She provoked too many thoughts on how I can fix my last manuscript, and also on what I can do for my next manuscript.
Too bad I'm working on a middle grade novel geared toward fifth grade and up. She was absolutely no help for that one. And seeing as how I'm about 40 pages from the end, I can use all the help I can get.
*sigh*
I probably should have done a better job choosing which workshop to listen to...but it was too much fun to stop.