Writer's Block

NaNoWriMo Bust

2011-12-23T09:36:00.001-06:00

Man, I'm bummed about missing out on Nano this year. I was ghost writing an eBook and helping to write a training program, and with my regular mom duties, there just wasn't any time left over. Perhaps I'll resolve to write a book in the New Year, just because. Kudos to all of you who went for it, whether you passed 50,000 or not. It's a fabulous experience. I hope to do it again next year. And kudos to all of you who write all year round. That's the way to do it anyway, right? Go for it! Happy Christmas, and Happy Holidays to all!

Return to Reality

2011-09-11T12:10:00.000-05:00

Although I keep returning to the NaNo site in the hopes that it will be reset for 2011, it is time to get back to work on the project that got tabled earlier. This project I will get paid for, so I need to concentrate on it. I already have a rough outline, but I will flesh that out some more today and do some more research. I think this is going to be great. I just hope I can move it along at a respectable clip. I'm excited to see how it will shape up.

NaNoWriMo is Returning

2011-09-04T07:00:00.002-05:00

On November 1, 2011, all the novelist hopefuls who have signed up for this awesome adventure will be hitting their laptops with abandon. Many will be returning winners, like myself. I have returned ever year for the past three years and now I'll be at it again. Each year marks a return to a state of frantic creativity. Trying to find that one great idea that is book material. 50,000 words is no easy task if you don't have the right premise. I think I've got one that will fly. I still have to work out some details in my mind. I hate outlines. Wish me luck. Here's one of the goodies I got for "winning" last year.

Return to Solvency - I Hope

2011-09-03T12:31:00.001-05:00

Well, it's September 3rd already! I've been so caught up in my shrunken budget that I didn't realize I should "return" to my blog. Ha, Ha.

The most important return for this month, however, is the return of my most recent writing job. It sort of fizzled out last month, along with the income it would have generated. Now it's back, and I'm thrilled. In fact, I should be working right now. I'll return tomorrow and tell you how it's going. :) Thank's for reading and have a safe Labor Day weekend.

Maybe - What a Wonderful Word

2011-05-02T10:35:00.000-05:00

Perhaps it will lead me to do even better than last month where I made it half of the days with the word "sprout".

I like "maybe". It has so much potential - it is potential. "Maybe" just hangs on the air waiting to happen. I think we can have a lot of fun with "maybe".

Sprouting Bunny Ears

2011-04-16T09:33:00.000-05:00

All morning I've been working on Easter baskets. I'm doing one for my daughter and her boyfriend, his little boy, my son, and my best friend. I bought some plastic Easter eggs to go in them yesterday and, of course, I had to wash them out before I could put anything in them. I'm debating whether or not to wrap my best friend's in one of those basket bags - I have so many. I know I will do the boyfriend's that way - his basket is very plain. The little boy is getting a giant plastic egg with eggs in it and age appropriate goodies, including a chubby book.

I do love doing stuff like this. I just wish it didn't add up so fast.

On another note, my replacement computer is on its way, so I will soon be back to business as usual - as soon as my computer guy transfers my info over, that is. Wish me luck.

Angry Sprouts

2011-04-14T13:24:00.001-05:00

Have you ever noticed that when you are angry with someone, even yelling at them, that your anger isn't sustained? It comes out in spurts, like it's sprouting from your mind and heart. Thankfully, these sprouts die back quickly, or at least we hope they do.

The Easter Bunny Tradition also Sprouts from Pagan Soil

2011-04-13T07:00:00.002-05:00

The bunny, or rabbit, is one of the most fertile and prolific of creatures and served as a pre-Christian symbol of new life in Springtime.

It appears that the Germans may have been the ones to introduce the bunny as an Easter symbol. There is evidence in writings in the 1500s to that effect. It wasn't until the 1800s that the first edible bunnies were made, again by the Germans. These were not chocolate, but pastries.

Apparently, the Germans brought the concept of the Easter bunny to America in 1700s when they traveled here with the Pensylvania Dutch.

Please see http://www.easterbunnys.net/easterbunnyhistory.htm for more information.

Interestingly, it seems that the goddess Eastre, or Eostre, had a consort. That consort was a Hare, similar to a rabbit, but even larger. The egg, like the hare, was also a symbol of fertility. It was believed that the goddess gave the hare the power to lay eggs, but only once each year.

When the Germans came to America, the concept of the Easter Bunny,or Oschter Haws, came with them. The children would make nests out of their bonnets and caps, then hide them, hoping the Oschter Haws would leave them colored eggs.

Please see
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/19144/the_origin_and_history_of_the_easter.html?cat=7 For more detailed information.

Easter Sprouted from a Pagan Ritual

2011-04-12T11:51:00.001-05:00

It seems that in 200 AD, while missionaries were still working hard to spread Christianity, Saxons were holding a festival honoring their goddess, "Eastre", and celebrating children and the coming of spring. Sound familiar? (except the goddess part, of course). Anyway, in any effort to win them over to Christianity, and since the festival coincided with the Christian celebration of the birth of Christ, the early missionaries sort of snuck in the idea of Christianity over time as they celebrated with the Saxons. Ultimately, the name "Easter" was taken for the holiday.

For a more in depth treatment of the subject, please see Arlene Wright - Correll's blog @ http://www.phancypages.com/newsletter/ZNewsletter2599.htm.

Sprouting Frustration

2011-04-11T20:56:00.000-05:00

As time goes by without my replacement computer I'm getting more and more frustrated because I can't work on my book. I went 5 months writing every single day to not writing at all. It's maddening. Right now the feeling is still in the sprouts colossus stage, but it's going to be in full bloom soon.

I think I'll write a short story. That might appease my mighty need. Who knows?.

Bloomin' Sprouts

2011-04-10T13:35:00.000-05:00

The thing about sprouts is they often go on to bud, and then to bloom. The sprouts "colossus" that I posted earlier are now buds and blooms colossus. Check them out.

You know, ideas are alot like these flowers. They sprout, they form into little buds, then, if you're lucky, they can bloom into something as amazing and beautiful as these Amayrillis.

I'm still frustrated, not being able to work on my book. Some time next week I'll get my replacement computer and probably go into shock trying to get my writing fix.

Sprouts of Love

2011-04-09T10:52:00.002-05:00

My son and I have a very good relationship though it's hard to see from the outside. He's 17 and "I love you" just isn't something that comes out of his mouth. However, yesterday, I took a tumble and hurt my knees. It was so stupid; I tripped over a cooler in the kitchen. I should have put that thing away. I was in a hurry to get my son's computer set up to print and the cooler was next to the printer. It was lucky I didn't hit my head on the open dishwasher. I had been filling it. It seems my knees took the brunt of the fall, even though I ended up quite sprawled out. In any event, my son came running and immediately moved the dishwasher out of the way. Then he held out his hands to help me up. Unfortunately, I couldn't see them, and he thought I was just being stubborn when I got up on my own.

Later, I made a special dinner for him. He has been hating everything I fix and not eating well for a while now - very frustrating. So, I broke down and bought some fish - which I hate - and got a great recipe for it from my sister - in - law. He loved it. He even complimented me! He said he wished I'd cook like that all the time. Unfortunately, I have no other ideas. I've tried stuffed steaks, stuffed chicken, backed chicken, burgers, beef and pork tenderloin. roast (which is too expensive). Other than steaks, which I just can't afford, and sushi, which I don't know how to make, I don't know what else to do.

In any event, having those kind gestures from my son yesterday meant the world to me. It just confirms that he really does love me, that the sprouts are there, and that maybe they just need a little water splashed on them from time to time to shoot up.

Sprouting Madness

2011-04-08T09:18:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, 12 children were killed by a gunman who opened fire in a school in Rio De Janeiro. Witnesses were likening it to American incidents. See http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/video/rio-de-janeiro-shooting-claims-12-lives-13327420 for more on the story.

Synonyms for the word sprout include develop, grow and emerge. How do the types of thoughts that lead to such actions develop, grow or emerge in these shooters?

This devil left a note. Wellington Oliveira, the 23 year old man who perpetrated this nightmare, talked about chastity and the forgiveness of God. He gave no indications as to why he did this heinous thing, only discussing how his body was to be handled and his possessions disposed of. For a complete translation of the letter see http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory?id=13324247.

This man left us no real clues as to his motives. The families are now left with this horrible tragedy and no reason why.

Baby Sprouts

2011-04-07T09:55:00.004-05:00

When I was a kid, my greatest fear at dinner time, besides liver of course, was Brussels sprouts. I absolutely detested them. My mom loved them, so naturally, we had them from time to time. My parents weren't complete dinner Nazi's, but we did have to eat some of everything.

I remember going to a friend's house for dinner one night. She had those type parents who made you clean your plate regardless. You know the type. Anyway, they served Brussels sprouts. I panicked. I managed to choke down one or two. I tried to feed one to the dog, but he wasn't interested, so I stuffed them in my glove. It was snowing outside and I had full snow gear with me. I don't think I'd ever done anything so sneaky before in my life. I felt terrible, but I just couldn't eat those awful things. When I got outside to walk home, I threw them out in the snow.

Well, many years later, as an adult, somehow I discovered baby Brussels sprouts. Man, dress those up with some butter and they're wonderful. Even my daughter loves them. Talk about full circle! This is a sprout I can love.

Can You Say Münchhausen?

2011-04-06T09:12:00.005-05:00

The first question you may ask is, "what does this have to do with sprouts?" Well, I've considered, what could cause the beginnings of this disease or syndrome or whatever it is to sprout in a person. What starts it? Why do they need attention so badly that they would hurt their own flesh and blood? I have no good answers. I think there are none.

I was watching GMA this morning and they had this little boy on with his mother. Apparently, the little boy - 8 years old - was maced when he threatened some teachers with a sharp piece of wood. He seems to have a history of anger and aggression problems at school. His mother allowed him to be interviewed directly on the subject! I couldn't believe she just sat there and let her son talk about his anger management problems and how school and the teachers made him mad and that he "sort of" meant that he wanted to kill them. It seems the teachers may even have hidden from him in another room. The police have been called three times for problems with the boy.

What mother would expose her child to such national scrutiny? Now everyone will know who Aiden Elliot is. She made some vague reference to the fact that it might be the school's fault since he didn't have the same problem with his other activities. Personally, I think, as apparently do most of the people posting on GMA's facebook page, that the mother is to blame. But more than that, I think she is clearly seeking attention for herself as a result of the trauma dealt her son when he was maced by the police officers in this incident. I think it's disgusting.

See the whole story and interview:

http://abcnews.go.com/US/aidan-elliot-pepper-sprayed-colorado-elementary-classroom-police/story?id=13307371

Phantom Sprouts

2011-04-05T08:32:00.005-05:00

As I sit here writing this, I have so many ideas for the book I've been working on, fleeting thoughts, concrete plot points. Unfortunately, I received the word yesterday that my computer is officially DOA. I'm typing this on my son's uber old Precision M60 Workstation that I got from the Dell warehouse more years ago than I can recall. It is the back-up, back-up computer. The keyboard is lifted up and the screen is wonky. I hope it holds out until I can replace my Dell Latitude.

I'm afraid to work on my book on this machine because I have an older version of Word on here, and although I own the licence, I'm having difficulty getting it registered, so I have only 32 more uses before it shuts down. Fun. I don't want to lose my work.

Luckily, I saved my book to a flash drive every day, so I didn't lose anything when I lost the computer. Plus, the hard drive is okay, so my computer guy can transfer my data to the new computer anyway. Yeah! But it's going to be the end of next week at least before I can get a replacement.

It's just so difficult not being able to put my ideas down on paper. It's as if they sprout and then go back into the ground. I hope they will lie dormant there until I can write again.

Sproutus Interruptus

2011-04-04T10:02:00.003-05:00

I had this idea for a sprout post yesterday, but it required cooking. I thought about it all day. Unfortunately, I never did the required cooking, so I forgot to post. I'm really beginning to think I'll never get a full month of posting.

But, I'm not giving up on this month yet. I'll keep trying. With any luck, I'll cook what I need to today and that will comprise my post tomorrow.

Happy posting and congratulations to all of you who haven't missed a day yet. Keep it up!

Sprouts Colossus

2011-04-02T10:01:00.005-05:00

I planted these Amaryllis bulbs last year. At that time, they had a bit of green fronds peeking out from my mother's tender care. I plunked them in the ground and proceeded to water them and I may have given them some plant food.

As you can see, this year they have produced incredible sprouts. I can't wait for the buds to open so I can see what the blooms will look like.

Little Jack Sprout

2011-04-01T09:55:00.005-05:00

Almost the first thing that came to my mind when I read about the April theme (my garden was first) was my son. Recently, he "sprouted" to 6'4 and 1/2" tall. Aside from feeling a bit overwhelmed, I'm 5'6", I feel the most amazing sense of pride. Pride. Like growing tall is a special accomplishment. Perhaps it's that he is a very attractive young man all around, with broad shoulders - and I could go on and on.

Both of my kids are blessed. They got the best of their dad and me and don't seem to have gotten any of our bad physical traits. I can't say they didn't pick up a few of our bad habits along the way.

When my daughter did her sprouting and was suddently taller than me, I felt left behind somehow. It was the strangest thing. I guess it was because I had to face the fact that she was growing up and learning to get along without me. She is fiercely independant.

Letting go is the hardest thing. Truthfully, the taller my son gets, the more I know I have to let go of him too.

Radiation Panic at Home

2011-03-19T12:17:00.001-05:00

Today's word is Fear.

As you all know, Japan is dealing with the horror of impending nuclear meltdown at the Daiichi plant in Fuchushima. The news is filled with stories of the brave volunteer firefighters who are risking their lives to keep it under control.

Another story involves radiation poisoning, who is at risk, and what can be done. Clearly, many Japanese are in danger.

However, it appears Americans here at home are concerned for their safety as well. And not just on the West coast. Understand that Tokyo is 5478 miles from Los Angeles. Now, think about this. I heard a news story this morning about the town where I grew up, Fort Walton Beach. Apparently, the shelves in all of the health food and vitamin stores they checked were empty of potassium iodide. This is supposed to protect you from radiation poisoning in some way. By the way, Fort Walton Beach is on the Gulf Coast of Florida, 1870 miles from Los Angeles.

I got curious. So I did some calling around near where I live now, 40 miles West of FWB. I got through to a couple of major stores in Pensacola - sold out. I called a smaller establishment and they were sold out too. When I told the lady I wasn't interested in the supplement for myself, but that I was writing a little article, she told me that we weren't being told everything by our government about radiation exposure and we had another two to two and a half months of exposure yet to deal with. She recommended these potassium iodide supplements for pregnant women and children. (Please understand that I am not making any such recommendation. I believe a doctor's advice should be sought before taking anything like this especially if you are pregnant, or if you intend to give it to a child.)

Another lady I spoke with said these could be dangerous if taken too much, that Iodine isn't something you want to keep introducing to your system.

I'm sure this isn't the only item people are stocking up on. The question is, are they being paranoid, or is it possible, somehow, that we could be affected by this disaster?

DayGlow A Go Go

2011-03-18T17:46:00.002-05:00

So, in an effort to save a bundle, ladies you know whereof I speak, I decided to color my hair myself. But instead of the drug store box - yuck - I ordered a professional haircolor application from an internet company. Everything looked great. It came with detailed instructions and all the tools I needed to do the deed. I invited a friend to come and help. We followed all of the instructions, but when I emerged from the shower, I was purple. You know the shade I mean. The color you get when you're going for red and you miss it.

What to do now is the question? I sent an inquiry to the company and they called me withing ten minutes! Now they're looking at pictures of the issue. The more I deal with these people, the more I like them. Hopefully, there is something they can do about the glow. The underlying color is very pretty. I tell you one thing. I don't have any stubborn roots! lol.

And no, I won't be updating my profile picture any time soon.

Villain

2011-03-17T11:42:00.002-05:00

My word for today is Villain. My villain is about to get his comeupance. It's only taken 1212 pages, but it's going to be good. All of the story lines should be involved in this. Things are finally coming to a head, a big one anyway. Hopefully, I can put an end to this puppy.

Severe Weather

2011-03-09T09:14:00.004-06:00

My word for today is Weather. I'm sitting here listening to a blow by blow of the Severe Weather bearing down on my little city in northwest Florida. We're under a tornado warning, there have already been 55,000 lightning strikes with this system and we are looking at possible inch size hail. The winds, of course, are an issue as will be the rain, with possible flash flooding.

The only room in my house that is suitable to hide from a tornado is a small internal bathroom built in under the stairs that you can barely stand up in. My son is 6' 4 1/2 " tall. The bathroom is not made for two, but I've used pillows to try to make it so. I will be sitting in the sink - lol. Of course, we'll have pillows to cover our heads. I really hope we don't have to cram in there.

Description

2011-03-08T21:06:00.003-06:00

My word for today is Description. I don't have enough of it in certain areas of my book. I know 1160 some odd pages - what am I writing? Lots of dialog, lots of description of how characters are feeling and what they are thinking. What I'm missing is more about their physical appearances, their surroundings, and the characteristics of the world they live in. Don't get me wrong. That sort of stuff is in there, but for the size of the book, it is woefully lacking. So, my word is Description. Got to get to work on that.

In A Word

2011-03-06T22:46:00.003-06:00

The March theme for NaBloPoMo is "In a Word" I think my word for today would be "behemoth". My novel is currently topping 1165 words and I'm still writing. I've slowed down a bit recently. It think it's because I'm in new territory. Until recently, I had already decided on the story in my head, so it was easy to write. Now, I'm having to create new situations as I go along. And I have to constantly go back to make sure my characters don't act out of character and don't do the same thing twice. It's definitely a labor of love though. I think when you can get caught up in reading past chapters of your book and they bring you to tears, you must be doing something right. Anyway, that's my word for today. I'll try to have another ready for tomorrow. I realize I'm behind again, but that's the story of my life.

What is my Book About?

2011-02-23T12:08:00.004-06:00

For the kind person who asked this question, I will tell you. It is an erotic fantasy, though I'm afraid it has evolved into a more traditional romance. The fantasy part is alive and well I'm happy to say. I've got lots of conflict, adventure, betrayals. But now that I think about it, I am going to have to start spicing it up again.

As for February's challenge, right now I'm working with a character who is in love with one woman, obsessed with another, and taking up with a third to hide his relationship with the second. It's great fun. And, he's a good man, not a sleeze bag. But remember, this is fantasy.

NaBLoPoMo - February

2011-02-01T07:00:00.000-06:00

February's Theme is Character. That can mean quality, temperment, personality, to be "in character", your favorite character, or typeset. I'm going to do my best to write about all of it. I've been falling down on the job lately, but if at first, right?

Google New Blog This

2011-01-25T09:42:00.001-06:00

I’m giving this new extension a try to see what happens. The set up is pretty strange and I’m not sure exactly what the fields are, but I guess I’ll figure them out as I go along. One thing I don’t like already is the typeset is so very small my eyes are straining. But, this could still be very conveinient, who knows. Let’s see how it works.

Google

Blogging Bust and Computer Crash

2011-01-25T09:07:00.003-06:00

Well, I have utterly failed to to keep up with my blogging. In my defense, I have been totally absorbed in my book. In fact, I was up to 719 pages before my computer came up with a fatal system error. I freaked out. I had 5 chapters that I hadn't backed up on my flash drive yet. My computer guy has had it for 4 days now. He says he was able to back up all my info, so I think my book is saved, thank goodness! But I don't know yet if my computer can be saved. I'm using my son's old broken computer. I'm writing on an older version of word, trying to write new chapters that I can paste into the book later. I also have a few unfinished chapters that I can work on. Let me tell you. As soon as I'm done every day, I copy them to the flash drive.

I'm still really nervous about those five chapters. I really did a lot of cross over of the story lines, bringing things together. Once the book is more integrated, I will start working on the ending. But I think there is still quite a bit yet to go. I imagine I will break the book up into two or three books in the end.

Thank you to those who are following. Sorry for the blackout.

Writer's Block

2010-12-02T19:23:00.004-06:00

I have it! I did a million and 1 things today, but when I sat down to write, all I could do is stare. I have three story lines going and a fourth I left hanging earlier and I'm completely blocked. I've got nothing - bupkiss. I know where I'm going with the most recent story line, but the style I've been writing in sort of requires a switch to another storyline at this point. That's why I'm stuck. I suppose it may be time to introduce another character. I have three more to go before the book can be finished, maybe four. I've already got over 200 pages. I'm telling you, it's going to be too big. I may have to break it up into two books. Once I have it written, I'll know better. So, wish me luck and send the inspiration fairies my way. Thanks!

As for ZeitGeist, I think part of the mood of the times at least is fearful because of the economy. I can't tell you how many times I work and rework my budget. I'm obsessive about it. I just have to see the figures on paper, or excel in my case. What do you think about the economy?

December is all About ZeitGeist

2010-12-01T12:30:00.005-06:00

I have a million and two things to do today, not the least of which is pay bills, and I'm not getting any of it done as I am going through my grotesquely engorged email box, trying to get it under control. So, I've speed dated, read my horoscope, deleted about 50 mails, so far, corresponded with twitter pals, updated my NaBloPoMo account and who knows what else. Here's December's badge. The theme is ZeitGeist. I have no idea what that means. I'm going to look it up now. The translation from the German is "the spirit of the time". A more in-depth definition is - "ideas and spirit of(the) time: the ideas prevalent in a period and place, particularly as expressed in literature, philosophy, and religion." Definition courtesy of MSN Encarta Dictionary. And this is what we will be blogging about.

So what are the ideas and spirit of this time and place? What is being expressed in our literature, philosophy and religion? I don't think you can leave music out of this mix. There is the philosophy of three generations right there. I'm going to think about this while I attack my in box and hopefully get the shopping done.

So November Dies

2010-11-30T15:05:00.004-06:00

Arrrgh! I missed a day. Kept it up all month until the second to last day. I don't suppose confusion is a good enough excuse. Ah well. What's done is done. I will tell you what had me so rapt last night. I made a pot roast for the first time. After all these years, I've never made one. So, I bought all the stuff and went to it. Do you have any idea how expensive a 3.38 pound chuck roast is? It's criminal! So naturally I was under a lot of pressure not to screw it up. It took way longer than mom said, but it came out pretty good. Julia Child has nothing to worry about from me.

Today, I'm just trying to get things done. I have this whole long list. I've done like 3 or 4 things. I just don't want to go out in the rain to drop off the stuff to Goodwill or go shopping. I have 4 or 5 places to go. I don't want to do it in the rain - just not up for it. So that leaves the dishes and laundry - yuck! Why don't these lists ever include really fun things? I did have writing on there, but I've already spent a couple of hours doing that and I just can't justify any more. I suppose I could do the shredding while I watch a movie. That might work. lol. My luck, I'd miss a staple and cause a meltdown.

Wish me luck. It's the last day of November. December is going to be even wilder.

Christmas Shopping and the Almighty Budget

2010-11-28T10:43:00.005-06:00

Well, naturally I missed the Friday sales because I was on the road. Probably a good thing in the long run. But now I have to try to find other sales to get something decent for my kids. The rest of the family is getting cookies. lol. I have these beautiful tins I bought on like 90% off, so that's covered. Now I just have to make the cookies.

Oh, and did I mention my son's birthday is only a few days from Christmas? Isn't that just peachy? I don't even really know what he wants. I've gotten him an 8 GB jump drive (USB drive) and I need to get him a mouse, but those aren't that exciting. I think there may be a concert coming to town soon. I need to check on that. The big ones usually skip us. I'm not making a cake this year. I'm making him two pecan pies. One to hoarde and one to share. He loves pecan pie. Might as well give him what he wants, right. What he really needs is a pair of shoes. But at 13 1/2 you can imagine what they cost and how hard it is to find a decent pair. He'd really be mad if I called it one of his birthday presents - darn!

I started decorating outside yesterday and I'm so proud of me! Unfortunately, I hammered my thumb a little more than the little nails I was using to hang the decorations on the brick mailbox. Oh well. I got them up. That's what counts. Right? Now for the hard part. I have to start putting out the decorations with lights. So far, it's just been wreaths and topiaries and what not. Now, I'm going to get serious.

And, I'm going to do some writing too.

NaNoWriMo Winner!

2010-11-27T12:31:00.005-06:00

Well, I'm home safe and sound and you know the first thing I wanted to do was get my NaNo novel validated. I feel great! It's just wonderful getting the recognition. I'm still no where near finished, but I buzzed past 50,000 and that's what counts. I put up my winner's banner for the sheer fun of it. I'm going to post them everywhere. I hope you all had wonderful Thanksgivings, full of those moments that make you stop and realize why we give thanks. Better get some "real" work done. My freezer melted down while I was gone and the frige lost its cool, so I had to throw every thing away and start over. Now I have to drag all of that mess to the outside garbage can. Time to wake the boy. lol.

The Long Road Home

2010-11-26T21:47:00.001-06:00

Well it was another long, long, day on the road. We had to come back today because one of my kids has to work tomorrow - bummer. But, still, it was a good visit. I've REALLY missed my writing. I've been tempted to do it by hand! We'll that's all for me for one week. Hope it was great for you all.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T19:40:00.000-06:00

As you can imagine, Thanksgiving with so many people was a free-for-all. My mom made like 9 pies and cookies and brownies and stuffed dates and my sister-in-law made this 12 pound turkey and two great big hams. There was just SO much food. But the best part, sappy time, was being with my family. I don't get to see them that often and it was worth this horrible headache I've been sporting for days to see them all. I hope you all get to be with the ones you love today and have a Happy Thanksgiving. And don't forget to give thanks for everything you've been given!

Family Reuinion

2010-11-24T19:36:00.001-06:00

Today we had our whole family together for the first time in the same place in years. It was awesome. All the kids had grown and changed so much. But like I told mine, children do that. Glad I brought my camera! Didn't really get any writing done though, as you can imagine. I tried a bit in the morning, but it wasn't too fruitful.

A Zero Word Count Day

2010-11-23T22:29:00.002-06:00

I actually spent a day where I wrote not a single word. I was traveling in the car for over 10 hours to get to my brother's house for Thanksgiving. I'm exhausted and only typing this to comply with my NaBoPoMo commitment. So, enough for today. More tomorrow. I hope. I missed my people today.

Quitting Early to Pack for Thanksgiving

2010-11-22T19:43:00.003-06:00

I had to quit early today because my start time just got moved up to tomorrow morning. Long drive ahead - 11 hours. Yikes! But, it will be worth it in the end. My whole family will be together for the first time in years. Today I managed 4,009 before I had to quit for a total of 108,780. I hope I'll be able to post while I'm away. I may not be able to pick up a signal. It will ruin my NaBloPoMo run.

Breaking 100,000 Words

2010-11-21T21:56:00.004-06:00

I did it and I did it pretty big. I wrote 4,965 words today and did my other work too: budgets, dishes, eBay listings lol. Actually, this week eBay is listing for free. You don't pay unless you sell. So, I did a few listings and did some Christmas shopping too. My total words are now 104,771. I still haven't settled on an ending. I have to find a way to tie all the storylines in together.

Can You Say Double NaNo?

2010-11-20T20:27:00.002-06:00

I am 194 words away from hitting 100,000 words. I'm just too tired to do any more tonight. Too funny. I wrote 6, 444 words today, for a total of 99,806. Watch me go over the top tomorrow. I need to go back to a languishing story line and let the poop hit the fan. Then I can come back here and let romance blossom.

A NaNoWriMo Comeback

2010-11-19T20:19:00.002-06:00

Yeah, I making a comeback! I managed 4,676 words over two storylines today. The bad guys are being very bad. Things are heating up. Hopefully tomorrow will be a banner day. My total now is 93,362. I must say though, if my son keeps playing his screamo "music" for hours on end, my nerves won't be able to take it. There's only so much your natural filters can deal with before you snap.

Slowing Down

2010-11-18T20:13:00.003-06:00

I'm definitely slowing down. Of course life is keeping me busy lately, but the story lines are screeching to a halt on me as well. I've started a new one, but it isn't what I'd hoped. I may have to abandon it and go with another. Ah, the perils of noveling. The word count for today is a whopping 2882. Not stinky, but not what I have been capable of so far. My total is 88,686.

Another Slow NaNoWriMo Day

2010-11-17T19:37:00.002-06:00

Had another slow day. Errands to run, dishes and laundry to do, same ol, same ol. I only wrote 1985 words today. I'm trying to work my way to a particular conflict without being boring. Don't know if I'm succeeding. I'm thinking I should have introduced the new storyline first. We'll see. Oh my total is now 85,804. That's 179 pages.

Writer's Block

2010-11-16T20:31:00.004-06:00

I'm stuck. I finally got the two story lines to intersect and now I'm stalled. IEEEE. I just need to spend some time rethinking the story. I already know both of the stories, but there's a time issue. I think it may be time to introduce the next storyline. That will advance the timelines for me. I only got 1,962 today. My new total is 83,819.

Breaking Personal NaNoWriMo Records

2010-11-15T21:23:00.003-06:00

I broke another personal record today. It's my birthday, so I just wanted to write. Some of the words are from a short stint last night after I "Quit" for the night. lol. I don't know how many. Any way, I've got 9,900 words for a total of 81,857 words so far. My story arcs are just beginning to cross, so thing are gonna get good. And, I'm going to introduce another story line.

Bleary Eyed Blogger

2010-11-14T18:22:00.002-06:00

I've typed until my arms are stiff and I'm bleary eyed. I really don't want to stop, but it's time to take a break. Today I've typed or at least kept, 6,731 words. My new NaNo total is 71,957. I'm about to get to a pivotal point and cross the story lines so it's doubly hard to stop. I may do a little more later. Who knows.

Killer NaNo Day

2010-11-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, after I had "quit" for the day, I started typing again. I put down another 1285 words for a total 8274 for the day. Wow! My personal best. Now I'm up to 65,226. I'm starting to get bored with this story line though. The conflict seems to far away. At least there's a lot of erotic moments.

NaNoWriMo Marathon

2010-11-13T16:18:00.003-06:00

I'm quitting early for today. I got at it early and stayed with it, so I've got a rocking word count, 6,989 for a total of 63,941. The pain in my back is slowly becoming manageable. A few stretches as I go along and I can stand it again. I've got work to do today, and doing the dishes doesn't count. So, I'd better get the errands done and get to editing.

And The NaNo Beat Goes On

2010-11-12T21:09:00.003-06:00

Well I started a new story arc, so I've been excited, trying to get to the point where it likes up with the first. But I've actually got a ways to go. So, for now I'll just have to be satisfied with enjoying this new storyline. I have to try not to rush it too much. Since last night I've written 6,830 words for a grand total of 56, 982. I think this book is going to be a whopper, especially if I put in all the characters I have storylines for.

Success!

2010-11-11T16:46:00.001-06:00

I made it! I finished my work and scored 50,152 words. Now I have to go and take a nap. I've got an honest to goodness date tonight and I want to be fresh. lol. Wish me luck.

Almost to the NaNoWriMo Finish Line

2010-11-10T19:43:00.002-06:00

I am so tired. I had some editing to do for work and I kept going back and forth between NaNo and work. Still, I got my work done, and the dishes finally. lol. Today's word count is 4581 for a grande total of 47,176. Only 2824 to go. Of course, the book won't end at 50,000 words, and that's a good thing, not only for the book, but also for my NaBloPoMo posts. lol.

Slow NaNoWriMo Day

2010-11-09T20:53:00.003-06:00

Well, it was a slow day for me on the novel. Life intruded. I had shopping, work and laundry. Worse, I didn't even get the dishes done - oh no! Well I guess there's always going to be days like these. Still, I got a respectable word count: 2577 with a total of 42,595. I'm almost done with this story arc, so I'll be moving on to another one soon. Should be a lot of fun.

Early on, I felt like this book stunk, but now I think it's definitely salvageable. I'm looking forward to fleshing it out and glitzing it up a bit. After all, it is supposed to be "erotic." lol

Color Me Obsessed

2010-11-08T20:57:00.003-06:00

Have you ever gotten into something that you just can't stop? I'm that way about my NaNo novel. I need to make this story happen, stinker or not. I sat down to write this morning and before I knew it, it was time for my son's bus to be here. I didn't get the laundry done, or the shopping. All I did was write. It's all I want to do. And I get these terrible back and shoulder cramps, but I keep writing anyway. I think I have a problem. lol.

Anyway, today's total, when I finally made myself stop is 6694. I think this beats yesterday's topper. My total is now 40,018. I'm finally coming to the end of this character's arc, but I have at least 5 more characters to introduce. lol. Wish me luck!

Book Writing and Back Aches

2010-11-07T19:09:00.003-06:00

My back is killing me. It's that place off to the side of my shoulder blade. Oh, it just gets so painful, it forces me to stop typing. Right now my shoulder is hurting to and my hand is going numb - you think maybe I'm taking this word count thing too far? lol

Well the official word count for today is 6485. I believe that's my record so far. The new total is 33,324. I'm going to stop typing now.

NaNoWriMo on a Roll!

2010-11-07T07:00:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, I had a banner day. 6029 words. I finally had to stop because my back and shoulder were killing me. My total is now 26,839. I pains me because I've just gotten to one of the most important love scenes thus far. I guess I'll just have to do it first thing tomorrow.

It's hard writing a book like this; you never know how much is too much, or not enough. I think I've erred on the side of "not enough" so far, but I'm going to fix that.

Don't you hate those people who call you up with this high pressure sales pitch and tell you that they can't offer it to you after today, when they've already called you three other times? Doesn't that just burn your bacon?

What about the ones who call you because ONE time you said you were interested in online schools. Now they call every few weeks - all of them. Yikes! lol

Early Bird Gets the Word Count

2010-11-06T07:28:00.007-05:00

I got up uber early this morning- just couldn't sleep, so I decided to do some more research into my characters. As it stands now, I'm only going to get to introduce a handful of the main characters before I hit 50,000 words. I have nine and 1/2 story lines to introduce and I'm still on the first one at 20,810. I may have to rethink this book a bit. The last four are by far the better stories - I remember them best, and they have more conflict. I think I may just gloss over the others because the characters' presence in the story is still important.

Time for more coffee. Hope you have a stellar day. Mine is starting out great. Got some laundry done, a few dishes. Go me! lol. Now to start writing.

NaNoWriMo Benchmark

2010-11-05T20:53:00.003-05:00

Well I've hit a high note with my word count anyway. I wrote 3904 words today for a total of 20,810.

Of course life isn't all about NaNoWriMo. What?! lol. Yeah, our wireless router went down yesterday and we had to trade the ethernet cord back and forth to have internet. Got it fixed today, but I had to pay the manufacturer to help me reconfigure it. What a pain. It was really horrible last night being without internet. It shocked me how much I rely on it.

Internet Woes

2010-11-04T20:47:00.003-05:00

Our router went out today, so we've been passing the internet cord around the room so everyone can get a turn on the net. Here's the update, 5,460 words today. Yeah me. It was a good day. Too bad I don't really like my book so far. It has its little jewels, but over all, its a stinker. lol. Well gotta pass the cord. Check you tomorrow.

Freelancing and NaNoWriMo

2010-11-03T20:32:00.005-05:00

Had to work for many hours on my freelance project today - an eBook first draft. It cut into my NaNo time rather drastically. I still managed to get 2363 words down. So far, I'm not liking this book as much as my other two, or the one I wrote outside of NaNo. C'est La Vie. Such is life. I'm trying to stay ahead with my word count so that when my freelance work does come home to roost, I won't get behind. My total word count so far is 11,446. My last scene was pretty good. I liked it pretty well. I think I'm just terribly out of fiction practice. I'm going to try the word count widget again.

NaNoWriMo Inspiration

2010-11-03T07:00:00.004-05:00

For all you Wrimos out there: A diamond is a piece of coal that finished what it started ~Unknown. Be that diamond. Take that lump of words and make it into a novel. You can do it.

Still Writing

2010-11-02T16:46:00.002-05:00

I'm writing by itty bitty lamp light. Gotta get those words in! I have 2055 so far, but I'm about to get back to it. So far I'm already thinking about the editing I'm going to have to do. lol. Oh well, it's about getting it all down on paper after all.

Word Blitz

2010-11-02T07:00:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I wrote 5,215 words. Amazing since my kitchen lights shorted out. That's where my desk is. I'was afraid that I was going to have to go back to work soon, so I worked as long as I could. I'll do the same thing today if I can.

Now I've got to hire an electrician to fix the lights. They've shorted out in three rooms. Can't catch a break. Oh well. That's life.

NaBloPoMo

2010-11-01T07:00:00.002-05:00

It's time for November's NaBloPoMo. I'm going to try - again - to be a daily poster. I've noticed that they have daily prompts now which should help if I run out of things to say about NaNoWriMo and my eBooks. They also have this great web badge which definitely fits my theme this month.

My neighbor across the street recently lost her husband. I knew he was sick. I bought a sympathy card, but I don't know how to give it to her. I feel like if I give it to her in person, it should be with another gift or at least a casarole, which I don't know how to make. I'm really lost here. I just don't think it's right to slip it in her mail box.

NaNoWriMo Cover Art

2010-10-31T18:38:00.003-05:00

Hey, thought I'd post my cover art and banner too. My cover art is pretty amateurish, I did it in a hurry. But it gets the mood across, I think.

Nanowrimo Eve

2010-10-31T18:04:00.004-05:00

NaNoWriMo is finally upon us! Tomorrow is the big day and I've actually done a synopsis of parts of Chapters one and two. Yipee! Here's my word count widget to show everyone how I'm doing.

It will show my progress throughout the month. I've already marked each day with the number of words I have to make to get to 50,000 by the 30th. Wish me luck. Oops, more trick -or-treaters. I'm dressed as the Queen of Hearts tonight. Wonder if that holds any significance other than that I got the outfit on super sale a couple of years ago. lol.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Halloween Glitter

eBook heaven

2010-10-30T20:01:00.003-05:00

I did it! I finally finished the draft of eBook number two. Now I can take a day off. I wish tomorrow was November 1st so I could start NaNo. I really want to get some words down.

Sigh

2010-10-30T11:18:00.005-05:00

Well, It looks like I'm going to finish the first draft of that eBook by the first of November after all. Of course, I'll have the revisions of the first book I wrote to do soon - alas. In any event, I will do my best to tap out my 50,000 words anyway. I have a vague idea what to write about.

In the meantime, I've got two nights of trick-or-treaters to contend with. One town nearby decided to do it a day early, so we expect they will descend on us tonight while our town will hit us tomorrow. Fun, fun, fun. Happy Halloween everyone!

NaNoWriMo Time

2010-10-23T22:10:00.002-05:00

Well, it's nanowrimo time again and I'm in a real pickle. I've gotten two really choice ghost writing jobs, but there is no way I'll be finished by November 1st. I haven't even had time to come up with a plot. I have a vague idea, but no time to outline. I also don't know if I'm going to be able to make the time to write while I'm supposed to be writing for my jobs. I may have to start late and really hump it to catch up. I just don't know. Anyway, I am determined to participate again this year and win if humanly possible. Wish me luck.

2010-07-27T11:50:00.000-05:00

Fishing Families on the Gulf Coast

2010-07-27T10:38:00.003-05:00

As you all know, the fishing industry has been hit hard by this collosal oil spill. My own hometown, near Pensacola, FL has been hurt badly. But there are organizations, like this one, popping up to help in this crisis. Even now, events are being planned along the Gulf coast to raise money for fishing families. Please check your local area. See what you can do to help and join the cause. http://www.bloggersunite.org/event/citizengulf-national-day-of-action The link is at the bottom of the page. On the rest of the page you will find other ways to help. Thank you!

NaBloPoMo - January 2010 - BEST

2010-01-01T07:05:00.002-06:00

This year we're going to start NaBloPoMo with a bang. The theme is BEST. There are so many permutations. I'm so looking forward to this year. I hope it will show in my work. Here is a wonderful badge created for this campaign.

Here's hoping we can all do our best in all that we do this year - even in finding joy in the little things. That's so important.

My Entry For the Kia Sorento Ultimate Road Trip Sweepstakes"

2009-12-09T09:01:00.004-06:00

This is in response to momlogic's challenge "If I could take my family on a road trip, where would we go and why." To get the link back to the sweepstakes just click on the title above or click here, momlogic's Kia Sorento Ultimate Road Trip Sweepstakes.

My ultimate road trip would be to take my son to Key West for his birthday. He's turning 16. He already has it mapped out and has picked out our hotel for the first night on the road. We live in extreme Northwest Florida. That's in the panhandle, where the state curves to the left on the map. We are only an hour from the Alabama border to our West. So, as you can see, we would have to travel the entire length of Florida to reach Key West. It would take us a good two days to get there, but; this is his dream. He wants to see the coral and the fish. He wants to snorkel and swim off the Key. I'm doing my best to work out a way to give him this trip. He deserves it. He's never asked me for anything like this before. I think it's time to get the car tuned up and make some reservations.

I Did it! I "Won" NaNoWriMo.

2009-11-25T13:03:00.005-06:00

I've crossed that 50,000 mark for the second year in a row. I can't tell you how good it feels. It's going to feel even better if I can make something marketable out of what I've written. lol.

NaNoWriMo Update

2009-11-06T15:17:00.003-06:00

Here's a little update for anyone who may be interested. This is my word count widget. It updates automatically when I update my word count.

This is my new banner.

Stuck at the 11th Hour

2009-10-30T20:45:00.003-05:00

I'm stuck. I can't seem to even think about my novel. I need to outline what happens next and I haven't a clue. I know what happens in the end, but there's a large chunk of space in between the middle and the end that isn't accounted for. And NaNo starts in 2 days! Help!

Perpetual Non-exclusive Publication Rights

2009-10-29T15:41:00.003-05:00

And the answer is, perpetual, non-exclusive publication rights. It is supposed to be only the winner's who give up these rights, but that is not the way the provision is currently worded. And until they upgrade it, I'm afraid I won't be entering this contest. Such a pity as I had worked so hard and come up with a pretty darn good story too. Even so, I don't think I would be too keen on giving perpetual rights to anyone, even if they are non-exclusive. It just doesn't "feel" like a wise thing to do.

Anyone Planning Anything Unusual to Prepare for NaNoWriMo?

2009-10-29T08:19:00.004-05:00

I know Jennifer N. over at Gather is planning her snacks. http://bit.ly/23SVfs . I'm just wondering if anyone else is planning for NaNowriMo in a Unique or Unusual way. Me? I'm going to empty my piggy bank and go get my nails manicured. Yep, you heard right. I'm going to have the lady cut them very short, then paint them so they will be strong. (I might even get a pedicure while I'm at it -lol) That way, I can type faster and my nails won't keep getting caught between the keys. Don't you just hate that? :-) Naturally, having pretty nails to will be a warm fuzzy bonus. lol. What are you doing?

I Won't Give You That - Publication Rights

2009-10-28T20:31:00.005-05:00

Well I discovered something interesting today and I hope I can get it cleared up before Nov. 2. That's the deadline for the Writer's Digest Popular Fiction Awards. According to the official rules, the winners give Writer's Digest one time publication rights to their stories. However, at the end of the sign up process online, before you can submit your entry, there is a box that says you give perpetual non-exclusive publication rights to your story when you sign up. Now that's a big difference. I deleted my entry when I got to that point. I'm not giving anyone perpetual rights to my story. Also, it wasn't limited to just the winners. I hate stuff like this; it's enough to make you pull your hair out. Now with only 5 days to go, and one of them a Sunday, I had to send an email to Writer's Digest to try to get this worked out. What do you suppose my chances are of getting a response in time. There is a phone number, and I will call tomorrow, but, I need something in writing clarifying the error. It also doesn't make sense for those who mail their entries in to get one set of rules, and those who enter online to get another.

We'll see what happens. Wish me luck.

NaNoWriMo - National Novel Writing Month

2009-10-26T11:41:00.003-05:00

NaNoWriMo is in five days and I have managed to waste the entire morning twittering and commenting on other sites around the net. I've done my shopping for the day, checked my mail and driven my son to swimming. Now it's time to get down to business. I've got to get my first novel firmly in my head - no more living dead villains, lol. I want the sequel to flow naturally from the first book. The only way that is going to happen is if I'm back into the first book as much as possible. Working on that now. Can't help editing while I'm there though, darn it. Enough talk, it's all work for me from here on in today. Well, except maybe for a nap that is. :-). NaNo on!

Attention Published Authors

2009-10-25T13:17:00.001-05:00

You can help U.S. troops and promote your books at the same time. To learn more about this program see http://www.operationdesertswap.webs.com. How it works is you send your books to a military serviceman or woman and they get to enjoy reading it. Then they give it to someone else to enjoy. Your book gets passed from person to person and brings happiness to those posted so far away from their homes. It’s a great program. Everybody wins. Apparently romances and the like are not allowed, but other genre are welcomed. See the website for more details. Note: The mailing deadline has been extended. I just got an email from ODS and they still need 11 more people. They mailing deadline is now Friday, October 30, 2009. I hope you will check it out and participate if you can in this worthy cause.

Fall Back and NaNoWriMo

2009-10-25T08:01:00.002-05:00

I just realized that we turn the clocks back 2 hours into NaNoWriMo this year - 2am November1, 2009. Isn't that a hoot?! Personally, I won't be starting right at 12:01am like many of my comrades, but it will still be nice to have that extra hour in the morning to work.

NaNoWriMo Cover Art

2009-10-24T06:34:00.001-05:00

Well, I've finally hit upon something I like. My model has given me the go ahead, so I'm posting it. NaNo is only 7 days away, I'm still outlining and I just realized one of my bad guys is already dead! Ha. Ha. Time to raise up another boogey. It's all in good fun. I certainly intend to have some.

Homeschooling

2009-10-23T09:30:00.004-05:00

I've got to tell you, this home schooling is definitely a challenge. First of all, I'm sure I'm not doing it right. Although there really are so many great sites on the web to help you. Second of all, I have to relearn algebra as I go along so I can teach it to my son. What kind of way to do thing is that? We have less than two months until the end of the term to get through, but I'm still sweatin it.

I'm also covering his health class that requires physical education. I have a plan for him. Unfortunately, the weather isn't cooperating and we don't have adequate indoor facilities. Wait! I could dig out that old total gym I bought years ago. It's still got all of the pieces. He could do a light workout on rainy days. That would certainly comply. Now all I have to do is teach him all of the required health related subjests, like health safety, all about the heart, depression, that sort of thing.

Still, algebra is my big bugaboo. I have to work out all of the problems before I give them to him so that I know I can help him out. Naturally we're about to get into some complicated funcions with polynomials. I'll be studying math while trying to write my NaNo novel. Wonderful!

Swine Flu Vaccine Will Come Too Late

2009-10-22T07:30:00.002-05:00

The delays in the production of the H1N1 vaccine have been caused in part by its slow growth in the whites of chicken eggs, a purportedly out of date method for creating such vaccines. According to a study done by Purdue University, the virus will peak in mid-October, with 63% of the U.S. population getting the virus by the end of December. This is alarming not only because of the number of the people expected to become infected, but also because the doses of vaccine promised for October have not been delivered. There will be a partial delivery by mid-November with the remainder in December. Obviously this will be too late. Has the epidemic hit your area yet?

Here's a map showing the latest tracking statistics on the flu as of yesterday, October 21, 2009. You can keep zooming the map in to show your state and more information will pop up.

Balloon Boy Drama

2009-10-21T12:57:00.003-05:00

Okay, enough is enough. These people are getting just what they want. Free publicity. You couldn't buy exposure this complete. Sometime down the road, maybe not for a while, they are going to profit from this despite the Colorado Law to the contrary.

I just want to say that these people are pathetic. What they did was childish and beyond irresponsible. And look at the mom. During one of the TV interviews she conveniently has a Tupperware for the kid to throw up in. What's up with that? And the dad just goes on talking like nothing is going on.

Then there's the older boy, name unknown, who said his brother, Falcon, was in the balloon. Why doesn't anyone question him after Falcon is found hiding in the attic? He obviously didn't see what he said he saw.

I think they deserve all of the charges that are being requested against them: conspiracy, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, attempting to influence a public servant and making a false report. That may seem harsh, but what they did was stupid and put a lot of other people at risk. They took away public services that might have been sorely needed elsewhere. There is no telling the actual damage they caused.

I truly hope they do not profit in any way from this fiasco, but I fear that at some point in the future they will.

Scientists in Greenland Study Ice Bubbles

2009-10-20T08:41:00.006-05:00

There is ice in Greenland that contains tiny bubbles from a period in Earth's history, the Eemian Period, when the climate was about 5-9 degrees warmer than it is now. This period occurred about 130, 000 years ago. Scientists hope that by studying these bubbles, which contain ancient atmosphere, they will gain some insight into our own global warming scenario.

Currently, Greenland is losing a record amount of ice. In 2007, it lost 340 billion tons.
They hope the bubbles will also show how much ice Greenland lost during the Eemian Period. Apparently the sea level was 13 to 20 feet higher during that Period than it is now. When talking about sea levels rising, the scientists here are making their projections for the next 100 to 200 years. Still, our children and grandchildren would be affected by whatever happens with global warming. I know if sea levels rose that much now, I would definitely be out of a home. I don't even live on the coast.

I am amazed by the dedication and ingenuity of the scientists who go to places like Greenland. The research base here is well above the arctic circle. They have to have a special plane to fly them and all of their equipment in. Then they take core samples of the ice and study them tirelessly. Now, they have this ice from the Eemian Period, which is much closer to home as these things go. They will study these bubbles for any and all information to tell us what happened during that time that might impact our time. I am in awe. Of course I have a thing for scientists in general. lol.

Irish Aid Worker Freed In the Sudan

2009-10-19T11:21:00.006-05:00

An Irishe girl who had gone to the Darfur region of Sudan with a group called GOAL was abducted 100 days ago on July 3, 2009 at gunpoint with her companion, Hilda Kawuki. The Irish government sent its jet to retrieve Sharon Commins who was released Saturday.

I'm glad they're going home. I can't imagine the courage it must have taken to enter that region in the first place. I don't know what to say about Darfur. It has gone on for so long and as usual it is the women and children who suffer the most. I don't understand a government that can allow, much less participate in the abuse and torture of its own citizens, civilians! In the face of all of that horror, I am truly thankful for this one simple mercy. I shudder to think of those who may not have made it home. The article merely says that it was a gang that abducted them, not what its affiliation may have been. The girls thanked the Sudanese government among others for their release, but I suppose I would have too under the circumstances.

Darfur is a region comprised of three states/territories in Sudan, a country in Africa along the border with Chad, another country in Africa. The conflict in Darfur has been going on since 2003. The death toll cannot be accurately measured due to all of those displaced who have died of malnutrition and disease, but it is measured in the hundreds of thousands.[1] I saw in one report that over two million people had lost their homes. Many people fled to Chad and when trouble began to escalate there, they fled back to Darfur. The people suffer murder and rape at the hands of the government as well as a government backed militia calling itself Janjiweed. This group was instrumental in the origins of the Danfur conflict as were the rebel groups the Sudan Liberation Movement/Army and the Justice and Equality Movement.[2]

[1] Wikipedia, War in Darfur
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_in_Darfur#Mortality_figures

[2] Wikipedia, War in Darfur
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_in_Darfur

The International Criminal Court, ICC, has issued warrants for Ahmad Muhammad Harun ("Ahmad Harun"), Former Minister of State for the Interior of the Government of Sudan; Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs of Sudan.

Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman ("Ali Kushayb"), alleged leader of the Militia/Janjaweed.

And, Omar Hassan Ahmad Al Bashir , President of the Republic of Sudan since 16 October 1993. Warrant of arrest issued by Pre-Trial Chamber I 4 March 2009. Which of course, he has ignored and even flaunted.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Counts

The warrant of arrest for Al Bashir lists seven counts on the basis of his
individual criminal responsibility under Article 25(3)(a) of the Rome
Statute as an indirect (co) perpetrator including:

• five counts of crimes against humanity: murder - Article 7(1)(a);
extermination - Article 7(1)(b); forcible transfer - Article 7(1)(d); torture -
Article 7(1)(f); and rape - Article 7(1)(g);

• two counts of war crimes: intentionally directing attacks against a
civilian population as such or against individual civilians not taking part in
hostilities -Article 8(2)(e)(i); and pillaging - Article 8(2)(e)(v).

All perpetrators are still presently at large.[1]

However, today Bahr Idriss Abu Garda, a rebel leader charged with three war crimes alleged to have been committed during the Haskanita attack in 2007 has appeared before the ICC in The Hague in Netherlands.[2] While The Hague is the governmental center, Amsterdam is the Capitol of the Netherlands.[3]

[1] International Criminal Court
http://www.icc-cpi.int/Menus/ICC/Situations+and+Cases/Situations/Situation+ICC+0205/
[2] TIMELINE: The International Criminal Court and Sudan
http://www.reuters.com/article/newsMaps/idUSTRE59I1RI20091019?pageNumber=1&virtualBrandChannel=11604
[3] Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hague

African Children Denounced as Witches

2009-10-18T10:00:00.002-05:00

I could barely make it though this article. I can't believe so much evil exists in this world. You can dress it up and call it religion - it's certainly not Christianity - but it's still pure evil. Those pastor's know what they are doing is wrong. Many of the parents do too. These are just church sanctioned abusers, many of them extracting money and gifts for their crimes. I feel sick that the Church has become so twisted in a place that can least afford or guard against it. I just feel sick.

Working Manuscript

2009-10-17T17:28:00.003-05:00

Finally, I have a working manuscript of my second book. I plugged so many holes and rewrote half of the last quarter of the book. I added 10 pages! I've got 180, 000 words now. Whew! Now it's just a matter of edit, edit, edit, until it's as perfect as it's going to get. I may go back to my first book for a while first. I need to have it in my head quite solidly since I'm going to be writing the sequel soon. Good plan.

Navajo Code Talker Dies

2009-10-15T09:56:00.003-05:00

William Varnell Oliver, a Navajo Code Talker died yesterday at the age of 88. He was one of the elite who helped to confuse the Japanese in World War II. Joe Shirley Jr., the Navajo Nation President ordered their flags flown at half mast for the next week.

It doesn't seem right to me that someone so important to the war effort should be allowed to pass away so quietly. True, he is no longer here to care, but his family is. He has a son, Lawrence Oliver, who deserves to be shown the respect his father earned. It seems that all of our heroes are being allowed to pass away without a sound.

Well here's my sound William Varnell Oliver. THANK YOU! Rest in Peace.

Working Title for New Book

2009-10-14T21:06:00.003-05:00

Okay, so I have a working title for my new book, soon to be written during NaNoWriMo in November. Soul Jumpers II Blood Heat. I wish I could come up with a good enough name for my Romance novel. It's driving me batty. Also on the no go list is cover art for Soul Jumpers II. I've tried two covers and they aren't working one bit. I've got one more idea, but I'll have to do some traveling. Wish me luck.

Freelance Finale II

2009-10-13T11:20:00.002-05:00

Finally, I am finito! And the client seems pleased. That makes me happy. I always worry about that so much.

Now I can spend a little extra time editing my romance novel and outlining for NaNoWriMo. It's just around the corner. Yikes.

I need to hurry up and enter my Writer's Digest story before I miss that deadline. I am actually pretty excited about that. Of course my chances are pretty slim, but you just never know.

Mayans Say The World Will Not End On 2012

2009-10-11T08:35:00.005-05:00

Contrary to popular hype and a popular movie coming out soon, Mayans, including archaeologist Jose Huchim, say the artifacts and information left behind to not point to such a conclusion. Sadly, some people are taking this newest end of the world scenario to heart and have become fearful, even young children. One poor child emailed a website run by Cornell University's Ann Martin, saying he was too young to die. Apparently he was not the only one. Martin's website is Curious About Astronomy? Ask An Astronomer.

Apparently there may be some science behind this fear. On December 12, 2012 , the sun will line up with the center of our milky way galaxy on a winter solstice, the lowest point in the horizon. Then the sun will appear to rise in the same spot where the bight center of the milky way galaxy sets. Some believe this will cause pole shifts or other major phenomena, while others think nothing will happen.

What do you think?

NASA's LCROSS Mission

2009-10-10T22:12:00.003-05:00

NASA's LCROSS Mission certain gives us something to think about. With our space program in trouble, finding water on the moon could be just what we need to jump start it. I don't know about anyone else, but I think dismantling the space program would be a huge mistake. Apparently there were a lot of disappointed observers, but NASA seems pleased with the data it collected. We can only wait and see.

Plot Breakthrough

2009-10-09T10:31:00.003-05:00

I just finished the first draft of my second book. I had some major plot holes and discrepancies, but I just had an epiphany. I know just how I'm going to make it work. All of the problems have just fallen into place like dominoes. Okay, there are still a few kinks to work out, but I have faith now that the major issue is resolved that I can smooth those out. The really cool thing is I get to add a whole new major scene to the book. That means more original writing. Yay! Time to go back up what I've already done. An extrememly important practice. I don't do it often enough as it is. When I wrote my first book, I'm sure I backed it up every day.

Publishers and Agents

2009-10-08T13:24:00.005-05:00

Wow, this can be so confusing. I've been reading about them for some time this morning and I still don't really know that much. It does appear that most if not all of the major publishing houses won't accept a submission unless it's through an agent. There are alot of other publishers who will, but it's hard to know much about them, even if they have great websites. They certainly paint a bleak picture for first time authors.

And then there's that pesky Platform business popping up again. How does a fiction writer really get the kind of followers you need to qualify as a "platform"? I admit that I'm a bit lost when it comes to that whole concept. I mean, between freelancing and writing, I don't have a lot of time for playing around on the social networks. But I guess I'd better find it if I want to sell my book. The problem is, you can't print excerpts because some publishers don't go for that, so how do you get people interested in your book?

I was amazed at how much the agents took. They really take a bite out of whatever royalties you get, unless that percentage is just for the advance, but I doubt it. Yeouch!

Lizards and Other Housemates

2009-10-07T08:32:00.002-05:00

I had a large lizard living in my house with me for about six weeks, maybe less. I let him/her be because they eat bugs. And he/she was big enough to eat big bugs. Everyday this lizard would make his rounds starting beside the refrigerator, behind it, then under my feet at my kitchen desk - he would always stop to look up at me - then he would continue on around the tile covered areas of the kitchen and breakfast room in one large loop. Once, he ventured into the den and startled my son who was working on his homework. I don't know where my lizard had gone, but I miss his daily routine. I've also had to spray for bugs and put out traps. More's the pity. He certainly was a lot of fun to have around.

One day, I was wearing pants with red splashes all over them. When he got under my desk and looked up at me, he got really scared and backed up under some notebooks and wouldn't come out until I left. Most of the time, I think he was just checking to make sure I wasn't going to chase him.

Maybe it was mating season and he'll come back with a whole family - Yikes!

Family - Cherish Them Now

2009-10-07T08:12:00.004-05:00

Well, I missed another day. Guess I'm not so good at this. I went to see my 80 year old mother yesterday. She lives less than an hour away and I don't visit her nearly enough. She wanted to share some things that she's gotten on sale with me. She's so sweet. I know where I get my sale - o - holic tendencies. Of course these days, with the economy the way it is, if I don't already use something I don't keep the coupon just because it "might be" a good deal. I only get what I'm used to. If I get a discount, more's the better. I also shop at places that give you cash back, like CVS. I get my Rx's filled there too. Every so often you get a cash voucher to use on anything in the store, except Rx even though they did count toward your voucher. It's a great deal. But I digress.

My mom is a treasure. She is 80 and going strong. She takes care of herself, is perfectly with it and gets around fine. I pray that I'm doing so well at 80. I need to get my time with her in now because I think she will be leaving for an extended visit with my brother soon.

So, I didn't post yesterday. I'll post twice today. lol.

Freelance Finale I

2009-10-05T11:05:00.003-05:00

I finally finished the chapter I was working on! Now I've got to get to the other book pronto. That chapter is going to be even more challenging I think. But first, I do have some housekeeping matters on the first book to make it print - ready. Also, I've got another job I've been neglecting that I need to do today. Work, work, work. Happy problems.

I hope you liked my little tip. I will have some more as time goes by. One thing I am definitely learning is that you can and must get free publicity for your book and you can do it yourself, without the help of an agent or publisher. Think on that and I'll have more for you soon.