Slow Stir

Get Lucky with Free Par-Tay!

2012-03-13T21:22:00.000-06:00

Love FREE books? You're in luck because because the biggest PARTY on web has them.

Welcome to the Lucky Days Free Par-Tay, a party for readers!

Over 40 ebooks, all FREE through Amazon.com

March 14-18

There's a genre for every reader's taste.

If Mysteries and Thrillers are your thing you can't go wrong. Police action, Murderous Mayhem, Amateur Sleuths and more.

You'll also find Horror, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and Woman's Fiction.... A fantastic selection!

Got kids? We have books for elementary school age and teens alike.

Don't miss out! Soon these amazing ebooks will be back to their usual prices. Grab them while they're FREE! March 14th-18th.

Who says you can have too much of a good thing? You can never have too many great books. Load up your Kindle and tell your neighbors to do the same.

Where do I start?

2012-03-12T17:02:00.000-06:00

All social creatures, large and small have their own behavioral practices when it comes to meeting and greeting each other. The behaviors, of course, vary depending on whether the meet-and-greet is between strangers, acquaintances, or friends. Lions who know one another rub foreheads. Wolves of the same pack wave tails and lick faces, while outsiders are approached with a guarded stance. Dolphins whistle, as if introducing themselves by name.

And humans? For many, a handshake is accompanied with a hello.

For obvious reasons, introductions between books and readers don't follow these rules. Nor could they afford to in today's hurried pace of life. When readers browse book shelves, they already know what they like and what they don't. There's no time for the polite, age-old introductions of "Once upon a time," to precede any sit-down-and-cuddle-and-get-to-know-one-another-session. Today, the cover of the book serves as an unspoken hello, an indication of what kind of story is held inside.

With just one look, readers know if they'll want to extend a hand, pick it up, and start a conversation by turning to the first page. And given what they are expecting based on their preconceived notions, that first line or two will tell the reader whether the rest of the story is worth the time for furthering the development of a relationship between reader and writer. As Charles Lamb said, "What is reading but silent communication?"

Thus, since gaining an audience,or a relationship, with a reader, is the goal of any writer, that first line is critical. It's the hello! here i am! please want to get to know me! introductory statement for the book. So, where to begin?

Many writer guides suggest beginning in the middle of the scene. And while that is good advice, I suggest it is not enough. There needs to be something more.

In order to truly foster an immediate connection with the reader in such a way that they will want to keep reading, the first line of any book should be designed or layered, however subtlely, to trigger an emotional response.

A few examples:

When I wake up, the other side of the bed is cold. ~ The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Why does this work? One half of any couple can connect with the slight feeling of emptiness or longing that the touch of the cold side of a bed--where a partner normally sleeps--would elicit.

"Where's Papa going with that ax?" ~ Charlotte's Web by EB White. The term Papa triggers immediate nostalgia of a family bond, while the image of the ax heightens a sense of danger or alarm, especially combined with the fact that the child feels a need to ask, meaning, this isn't a regular trip outside to fetch wood.

When Giuseppe found the green violin, he did not think it would help him escape. ~ The Clockwork Three by Matthew Kirby. First of all, a green violin is unusual, and with the added tension of iminent danger... I'm hooked!

They had been happy people, thought Eleanor. ~ Strangers at the Feast by Jennifer Vanderbes. Triggers curiosity in wanting to know what went wrong, as well as fostering an emotional connection with any person's innate desire to be happy. It makes the reader wonder, Why aren't they happy? What happened?

I was supposed to play the piano. ~ A Crooked Kind of Perfect by Linda Urban. Emotional response is a concern over why the main character is disappointed. If she's not playing the piano, then what is she playing now, if anything? And what brought about these state of events?

Perhaps when writing about characters, which by and large, should be emotional muli-layered beings full of dimension and substance, creating the first line of any story should be second-nature. Afterall, writers are, in and of themselves, emotional beings. However, I can tell you it doesn't always go that way. (Check out the first sentence of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Go on! You might be surprised.)

Nevertheless, there are as many beginnings as there are stories. Which are your favorites? I'd love to see some shared.

Don't Miss the Festival of Words on Saturday

2012-03-07T21:03:00.000-07:00

Storytelling
Singing
Dancing
Workshops
Kids activities
Cookies & more

What could be better?

Nothing, if you love books, love listening to stories, or dancing to music.

You'll get it all at the Bullen Center in Logan on Saturday, March 10, starting at 2pm.

Bring yourselves, bring your kids, and settle in for an enjoyable afternoon with talented storytellers, such as, Omar and Lori Hansen, David Sidwell, Clive Romney, Ted Erekson, Dan Bishop, Leah Adkins, Gary Hanen, and Daniel and Emma Kate Coleman.

See you there!

World Read Aloud Day, March 7

2012-03-06T21:46:00.000-07:00

So we've gone from sitting down and taking a few quiet moments with a new ebook on your Kindle/Nook/WhathaveYou to READING OUT LOUD.

March 7 is World Read Aloud Day, which is a world-wide initiative Take Action for Global Literacy, Celebrate the Power of Words, and Change the World by sharing the joys of reading with those in our lives.

How do I plan to celebrate? I'll start in my science classroom by challenging the students to read from the text as if they were a newscaster delivering a "Breaking Story" on the news. Or, other students might choose to read as if they were auditioning for the leading role in the next blockbuster movie. We've done this before, and it's always a lot of fun.

I'll round out my day by sharing a few chapters from the latest books my kids are reading. Then, perhaps if I still have some energy left, I'll write a new chapter of my own.

Read ON and Read LOUD!

Read an Ebook Week

2012-03-05T06:57:00.000-07:00

To read a book for the first time is to make an acquaintance with a new friend; to read it for a second time is to meet an old one. ~Chinese Saying

It's back! For those who haven't tried reading an ebook, or for those who have been too busy with life to sit down and give yourself some much deserved time with your kindle, nook, or reading device, This Is A Reminder for you to enjoy a few quiet and creative moments this week.

To help celebrate Read an E-Book Week, many titles are available for reduced price at Smashwords, Amazon, and B&N.

Don't have an ereader? No problem. Ebooks on Amazon can be downloaded to ANY digital device. [Isn't that nice?] So, you have no reason not to take a walk on the wild side....

And if you know of a young reader who is looking for a fun read, The Ghost in Me is reduced to 99 cents on Amazon (just saying). ;)

Teen Author Boot Camp

2012-03-04T13:18:00.000-07:00

Hurry!

On March10, the 2nd Teen Author Boot Camp will be held at Utah Valley University. Our keynote speaker is Brandon Mull. Last year more than 130 teens attended and had tons of fun, along with feedback on their work. I know UTAH has some phenomenal young writers, so pass this information along.

When: Saturday, March 10, 2012
From: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Utah Valley University
Who: Teens ages 13-18, no adults allowed :)
Cost: $39 Includes, tuition, lunch, unlimited drinks, backpack, and more.

How to register: www.teenauthorbootcamp.com

To put a FUSE to the Muse

2012-02-24T18:32:00.000-07:00

You've heard this phrase before: "Feed the muse."

Writers, painters, actors, and creative peoples in general are always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to keep the creative juices flowing, myself included. Recently, I was asked what I did to inspire my creative soul. Did I take walks? Listen to soothing music? Study the stars?

Uh, no. I'm not so artsy-idylic as that. Instead, I keep it simple.

Basically, I drink Rockstar... stock Rockstar (yes, the drink)... think like a Rockstar... and play like a Rockstar. You see, the mind is a powerful thing, and I like to boost it up in as many fun and legal and legitimate ways I can think of (within reason). The adrenaline rush I get in return gives me the confidence, drive, and endurance I need in pursuing all my goals, including those related to writing.

How do I play like a Rockstar? Well, I do things that normal, responsible persons normally wouldn't do like...

1. Defy gravity whenever possible. For example, in winter, I challenge myself on the ski slope by thinking I can tackle any steep mogul run that gets in my way by keeping my skis actually pointed downhill, and then I make myself ski that way (downhill) (yes, tricky, I know), even though I may lack all forms of grace in the process.

2. Defy the limits of biochemistry. Specifically, MY biochemistry. This is particularly helpful when I feel like I'm spinning my wheels with a story. What do I do? I run myself into the ground (literally) by running to the gym. The kickback is a special bonus if I happen to accomplish this task in cold weather, when every muscle, including my all-powerful, yet not-so-indomitable-brain, would rather not cooperate. Then when I reach my destination, I let myself feel impressed with having done something that was in its own small way, (not so) amazing.

3. Defy boundaries. Normally I'm a shy person. Reaching out to connect with other people, whether it be simply making small talk in line at the supermarket or making a comment on a new blog I've visited, rejuvenates my spirit. In a way, it's reassuring to realize that we're all human, despite living among one or two awkward monkeys, or llamas, or turtles, or whathaveyou.

All in all, keeping the little things in life sparkling with a daily dose of renewed energy helps keep the well brimming when it comes to tackling my daily writing goals, which in turn, extends into all other parts of my life.
Putting a fuse to the muse... I've found, can be a very fun thing.

Dear Book Bloggers,

2012-02-17T04:00:00.001-07:00

You make the world go round!

You are the threads in a perfect homespun, ever-growing quilt, that tie readers to writers, and writers to readers.

You are like a dating service, taking some of the anxiety out of that first date. You diminish the fears in our pressing questions like,.... Will I like this new story? Will I keep coming back for more? If I put the effort into reading, has the author put effort into writing? And, if I've put effort into writing, will readers like what I offer?

You are the whipped cream, the ice cream, the hot fudge and butterscotch ripple, the NUTS, the sweet CHERRY, the clear glass dish, and the big whopping spoon that make the perfect ice cream sundae--the kind of sundae that reminds us of what is was like to dip into that FIRST and best sundae that we, as a child, ever had the pleasure of tasting.

You are the light of the world.

You are like friends, sharing secrets, good secrets, that feed our souls.

You are you, and that is what makes you so fantastic.

[Just letting you know] [to share the love]

;)

Today's the Day!

2012-02-17T00:00:00.006-07:00

The Book Blogger Love-A-Thon!!!

Jump on the link to visit some favorite book blogs--both new ones and tried-and-true ones--to see what stories are waiting to connect with you! And while you're out and about visiting, make new friends, connect with old friends, and just enjoy what this wonderful world has to offer.

Thanks to Katelyn at Tales of Books and Bands for getting this all started!!!!!

Enjoy! See where the wide world of internet links and cool people posting about #stuffworthreading will take you

Book Blogger Love-A_Thon => #SharetheLove

2012-02-05T13:09:00.001-07:00

I don't think there is ever a sort of thing as TOO MUCH LOVE or TOO MUCH FUN for the spirit of February's favorite holiday. Here's a fun event for book lovers to take part in! Special thanks to Katelyn at www.TalesofBooksandBands.com for putting this 1ST EVER event together!

HERE ARE ALL the DETAILS

What: A Blogger Love-A-Thon! This will be a day full of commenting on blogs, following blogs, tweeting about blogs, thanking blogs, sharing the word about awesome blogs, telling another blogger how freaking awesome they are, the list goes on and on.

When: February 17th 2012 at 12:00 a.m. EST until February 18th 2012 at 12: a.m. EST.

Where: Twitter, blogs, Facebook! All of your posts will be on your blog but OF COURSE links are welcomed on Twitter and Facebook!

So EASY So Fun to Meet new people, check out new blogs, and visit your FAVORITES by just stopping by to #SharetheLove!

CHECK BACK for more information ; )

Picture book MARATHONS and FREE PAR-TAYs!

2012-02-01T20:59:00.001-07:00

It's February again,... already?! That means the Picture Book Marathon is now underway. I'm going to do my best to participate during the second week. My schedule dictates that I must bow out of the rest. But I'll be checking in with my fellow writers to see how everyone is doing.

Want to join in? Visit www.picturebookmarathon.blogspot.com

Long Live the Beloved Picture Book!

As for Parties!!! Do you like them?

Sure! Who doesn't? For this one, you don't even need to get out of your seat. That's because the folks at the Indie Book Collective are bringing the bash to you with a huge assortment of great books for FREE!!!

So many genres and selections to choose from, and no budget to limit the taking! Load up your PC or Kindle or Android or whatever reading tablet you prefer and see what Indie Writers are doing.

Check it out at
http://web.me.com/craftycmc/Free_Par-Tay/Free_Par-Tay_Home.html

But HURRY! These deals only last from Feb 2-4. !!! And they are only available at Amazon.
In addition to my own titles (The Ghost in Me and Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again), you might also like these FREE titles:

TAKEN by Charlotte Abel... Love, magic and betrayal. Not everyone survives.

EXILED by RaShelle Workman... An alien princess exiled to earth. Can she survive?

GIFTS OF BLOOD by Vicki Keire... She can only hope the vision won't come true.

DARK WATERS by Shannon Mayer... A sensual mix of monsters, magic, and deception

PIBBIN THE SMALL by Gloria Repp... Is Pibbin too small to be brave?

IN DREAMS by J Sterling... Unconditional love, unimaginable heartbreak.

I think I LOVE my new cover...

2012-01-21T21:46:00.000-07:00

for the paperback edition of LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD, INTO THE FOREST AGAIN

(both front and back sides are shown)

What do you think?

New Cover for Little Red Riding Hood

2012-01-07T15:53:00.002-07:00

I participated in a workshop yesterday with the Indie Book Collective, which are a totally rocking group of Indie Writers who know a lot about what it takes to be successful in the ebook world.

One of the things we talked about was covers: What makes good covers. What makes not so good covers. My cover for Little Red is one that I've struggled with for a long time. While it looks great on the paperback edition, the thumbnail that shows up on Amazon and other book searches is just too small to show any appealing detail. Author Carolyn McCray (30 Pieces of Silver) affirmed what I'd long suspected. My cover illustration wasn't doing my book justice. Little Red needed to be bigger, because she was lost in the thumbnail.

While looking at other Little Red books available on Amazon, I realized my cover looked similar. And while this was an aspect I considered to be appealing and reflective of my book's content, it did little to help make my book stand out from the crowd. As it stood, Into the Forest Again, didn't show that it offered something new to the traditional tale, something different, something exciting, and even something a bit suspenseful.

I happened to come up with this new cover almost by accident. Well, not quite by accident. I was exploring photo-effect options on my beloved photo editing site (Picnik.com), when I stumbled upon the invert feature. Voila!

Actually, changing the cover involved a lot more than a simple press of the button, as well as use of some other beloved software on my computer. I'll spare you the details. But! I am very interested in hearing what you think.
New Cover:

Old cover:

Happy 2012!

What I've Learned about Amazon categories

2012-01-03T22:18:00.001-07:00

With readers having found The Ghost in Me over the holidays, I finally got to learn a little bit about how category placement in Amazon translates into sales. The Ghost in Me had inched up into the Top 10 and Top 25 in categories for Arts and Music, Theatre and Spine-Chilling Ghost Stories. (Whoot!) And I could understand the first two listings, since The Ghost in Me is centered around a play that the characters get involved in. However, my book isn't overly scary, and that concerned me. I wondered, Would it find its way to the right readers since it was listed in the HORROR category? What about readers looking for lighter, more humorous stories?

I decided to test the waters. I went to Amazon and changed the category listing to Sci Fci, Fantasy and Magic, thinking it might be a better fit. I left the Theatre category in tact. It took about a week for the category change to take place. Low and behold, today I found out my book dropped off the search engines on Amazon for Children's Horror and Ghost Stories, even though yesterday, it was listed in the Top 25 among those sellers. Today, if readers want to find a ghost story like mine by surfing this category in Kindle, they won't find it.

Yikes. I didn't realize that would happen, especially since the word "ghost" is in the title. My book is still selling well, its just that readers now have to find it by name, which makes it a little bit of a bummer in realizing I'm missing out on readers who are browsing the Ghost shelves.

Thus, back to Amazon I went and changed the category listing back to Horror and Ghost Stories. Interestingly, The Ghost in Me is still in the top 10 in three other categories related to Arts and Theatre, but for now, I'll have to limp through a week with having lost the top 25 rank among Ghost listings.

Here's hoping that happy readers can continue to get the word out until my flub is fixed, and that I can get that ranking back by next week. It really does help when your book is seen on the first few pages at Amazon in a category of interest.

I guess you never know what you don't know, until you realize what you didn't know,... and then you know it, sometimes a little too late.

Best wishes to all you authors and readers out there who are surfing the dominions of the book categories holding the golden rings.

Little Red Riding Hood is Turning Heads Again | USPRwire

2012-01-01T15:14:00.001-07:00

Little Red Riding Hood is Turning Heads Again USPRwire

Project Writeway contest

2011-12-27T11:22:00.000-07:00

The talented group of writers at the Throwing Up Words blog are hosting a contest that starts next week. Check it out! It should be a worthwhile experience to participate.

2011-12-26T13:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Holidays!

I am taking a break this week from writing/blogging in order to catch up on other business in my life that was neglected over the past month--like studying for a major exam that's coming up--but I wanted to thank my readers and fellow writers for their support. The Ghost in Me found a home on many Kindles over the holidays, and that couldn't have happened without word-of-mouth. So, thank you! And let me know what you think of Myri and Wren.

Also, I've decided to keep the 99-cent price on the ebook edition of The Ghost in Me, as well as Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again, for the next couple weeks in order to celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas. Didn't they start yesterday? Take advantage, and happy reading!

But thanks to you, my ranks on Amazon have never been so high.

#3,451 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store)

#2 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Children's eBooks > Arts & Music > Performing Arts > Drama & Theater
#4 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Fiction > Children's Fiction > Arts & Music
#18 in Books > Children's Books > Science Fiction & Fantasy > Spine-Chilling Horror

Moving up in the Book Lists

2011-12-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

Found out my book, The Ghost in Me, holds #3 and #10 spots on two kindle lists:

#3 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Children's eBooks > Arts & Music > Performing Arts > Drama & Theater
#10 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Fiction > Children's Fiction > Arts & Music

Seeing this is great, because the characters are involved in a play, and it is one the driving elements for the plot.

Plus, it's a little better than the last list that The Ghost in Me was on, which was "spine-tingling horror" in children's ebooks. If my book is anything, it is definitely NOT that. ; )

Update. And do Nook users exist?

2011-12-19T17:15:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since my last post. Happy Holidays!

I have some good news to report. Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again is now available on Kindle. An extra bonus with this edition is that the images are in full color for those lucky enough to have the lastest version of Kindle or some other full color reader device. And although I haven't put my marketing into place for this edition, I'm glad that a few people have already found it. I hope they and the kids they'll be sharing it with will enjoy it.

Which brings me to my next question. Do Nook users exist? Although The Ghost in Me has been available on bn.com for a while, and Little Red has been available there for at least a few months, sales are absolutely flat. Compared to Amazon, those sales are not even out of the gate. Although other authors have reported similar trends, it seems odd. Perhaps the fact that Amazon offers the ebooks in other formats for other devices helps those sales as well. But for a nontechie like me, who has a hard time keeping up with gizmos from the last decade, this is a question I can't really answer.

But here's another question that I finally can. I've been asking it for a while now: What will the cover for my next book look like? I've struggled with it for a long time now, but it seems I've got something put together that works. Let me know what you think. I hope to release this next book in June 2012, if all goes as planned.

Last, but not least, The Ghost in Me is part of a 12 Days of Christmas IndieBookBlowout. This event features ebooks from indie authors for 99 cents thru Dec 24. So, if you have time, you may want to head over to the site to see what titles are available. I've noted a few that are on my list to read. www.indiebookblowout.com

Have a wonderful holiday season!!!!

Surf's Up!

2011-11-29T18:12:00.000-07:00

Soccer, surf, and taking in the coast at Dana Point, California. A Thanksgiving tournament that was a lot of fun with friends. Good job to the Infinity Girls U16 soccer team!

Audiobook Bootcamp for Little Red Riding Hood

2011-11-08T00:34:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I had it in me, but I actually made an audio recording in mp3 format of Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again. Why did I put myself through such pain and suffering (never having done this before?) It's all because of that big word called Opportunity. Last month Little Red made it onto the 2011 Kart Kids Book List. As it turns out, Little Red may be selected to be read on Kart Kids Radio sometime in December and/or throughout 2012. So...... That sounds pretty exciting. Thus, I learned how to do all this technical stuff in the span of one weekend, in my sound-studio-slash-office. I think I'm beginning to love technology, or at least my computer's end of it, which I didn't know was so handy and capable....to think I've had it for more than a year... I feel like we're just beginning to get to know each other.

If I get brave, I'll post a sample of the audio file here. Who knows? Maybe it will come in handy for a kid or two that you know who is travelling over the holidays.

Oh, and I almost forgot,.... Kirkus Reviews magazine, which claims to hold the toughest children's book critics in the industry, gave Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again a nice review! Whoot! They wrote: "Wenger’s tale is filled with catchy rhymes that impart a rhythm to the story, balancing fun and humor with a dark undercurrent of suspense. ...A fun fairy tale with an enduring message: friends come in all shapes and sizes—and they all love cake."

Happy reading, writing, and eating, everyone!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T20:06:00.000-06:00

Top 5 reasons to love St. George in October.

1. Warm weather! After missing out on the sunny skies last weekend due to a video project that came up, I was rewarded with great weather for the last weekend of the month. It worked out perfectly since Eric was playing baseball all weekend.

2. Palm trees. Life can't be too bad, when you've got palm trees right outside the hotel room door.

3. Kneaders! Need I say more? The boys were treated to their first Kneaders soups and sandwiches. YUM!

4. 50% on Saturday nights at Kneaders. Yes, we returned for dinner here on the second night. I asked the cashier if he'd rung up the bill wrong, because it seemed way too low.... but surprise, surprise! It was 50% off! We immediately ordered seconds on dessert.

5. Finding a reason NOT to give up chocolate. ...At least, Kneader's chocolate.... After giving up beer and then coffee this year, I thought I might be ready to add chocolate to the list. But then I had one of those chocolate mint brownies from Kneaders. My son had ordered it, and I tasted it--reluctantly, because I wasn't sure I'd like it. Wham! I was wrong. Now I know what heavenly chocolate should taste like. And the timing couldn't be better, because all those Hershey's treats waiting to be given out at the door tonight definitely don't measures up. Woot!

6. Okay, so I know I was only going to give 5 reasons to like St. George, but here's another: scary movies to entertain us at night in the hotel room. Tis the season.

Trick or Treat!
Happy Halloween!

Skyping with 3rd Graders, and other giveaways

2011-10-20T20:16:00.000-06:00

This morning was a lot of fun. I got to spend it with the 3rd graders from Amherst Street school in NH, who had read Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again. We talked about what makes a book become a favorite and they shared with me a poster they had made of one of their favorite quotes from the book.

I've also had an interview and giveaway posted at www.Readinista.com for The Ghost in Me. Readinista offers a treasure trove of information on the latest books. I highly recommend checking out her site, if you are looking for ideas for fall and winter reading lists.

Another interview and giveaway for both of my books is at www.beachildagain.com. This beautiful site is new. Given its focus on kids books and its wonderful layout, is definitely one to start following. I'd recommend a visit.

Good News for Little Red Riding Hood!

2011-10-13T14:46:00.000-06:00

Wooot!

Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again is a winning book selected for the 2011 Kart Kids Book List. It's placed on the list for middle school books (4th-6th grades).

I'm so excited! I know as parents and authors we aren't supposed to have favorites, but for me, this book was one of my favorites to write. I'm glad others have found it worthy as a favorite to read and share with kids.

One of the options for winners is to be featured on Kart Kids Radio. In order to do that, I'll need to make an audio version of the book for broadcast.

I guess it's off to the studio and other new experiences!

A Good Week with Reader Reveiws

2011-10-04T23:45:00.000-06:00

I've had a good few weeks. The sun has shined more days than not. The kids have made me laugh often. (Check out the art project one student made of my computer! It's the most adorable elephant I've ever seen!) And tasks continue to get done.

Plus! A few more readers have posted nice reviews about my books on their blogs. And I guess it makes sense. Since it IS October, The Ghost in Me has been getting some attention.

The first nod was at Melissa T Liban's blog. She is an illustrator with a unique, clean style. I just love the characters that she has created throughout her site. They are so adorable, I'd love to take one home, or at least let one take up residence on my own website. Her site is definitely one worth visiting!

The second was at Cathy Witbeck's blog. This posting was such a nice surprise to wake up to. It definitely made my day. And Cathy is right. The Ghost in Me definitely fits in with October's Hallowed Eve theme.

The Ghost in Me has also shown up on a few other sites: www.NewBookJournal.com, www.BunnyCates.com, www.Readinista.com, and www.thechildrensbookreview.com.

And last month I posted about the wonderful review that Little Red got at www.kid-lit-reviews.com

Writers couldn't go it alone in this muckity world without readers! So, THANK YOU so much to everyone who is helping get the word out!

Moose!!! Or, Batty Moosen!!!

2011-09-18T23:50:00.000-06:00

My youngest son captured this photo while standing on the roof of my truck. Meanwhile, my other son and daughter warned us of the dangers of unpredicatable, charging meeses, or mooses, or specifically, the moosen we were capturing with our digital camera.

But he and I feared not.

As far as mooses go, this was a small moose.

And as far the English language goes, I think it needs to take care of words like moose, which for some reason don't like to be associated with plurals. If I had followed the rules, I would have repeated the word moose far too many times in the paragraphs above, driving my readers batty.

Into the Forest Again nets a great review

2011-09-17T17:06:00.000-06:00

This review made my day, so I thought I would share. Thanks so much to Suzanne Morris at Kid Lit Reviews for giving her time to one of my favorite "babies."

If you'd like to find some other recommendations for children's books, visit Kid Lit Reviews.

Indie Book Blow Out

2011-09-02T11:40:00.000-06:00

It's started! And will only last through Labor Day Weekend. The first-ever Indie Book Blowout. You'll find lots of ebooks to choose from in lots of categories. You'll find my title, The Ghost in Me, under the YA category. It is available on Kindle and other formats at Amazon.com and Nook at Barnes and Noble.

Have a great weekend!

First Ever Indie Book Blow Out Sale on Labor Day Weekend

2011-08-25T15:50:00.000-06:00

COMING 9/2 – 9/5 #INDIEBOOKBLOWOUT EXTRAVAGANZA!

The Ghost in Me & dozens of other ebook titles will be available for just 99¢!

I hope you'll take advantage of this offer to find some new authors, like me.... ; )

http://bit.ly/pNbZKA

Nook vs Kindle for the Indie Author

2011-08-21T23:59:00.000-06:00

First, good news! The Ghost in Me is now available at B & N for the Nook reader. It includes the graphics that are included at the beginning of each chapter in the printed edition, with the added bonus of the pics being in color! Based on what I've seen so far, I love effect that the color images like this one add to the story. >>>>>>>

Now for my comparison of the Nook vs Kindle with respect to Indie Authors...

After going through the steep learning curve of converting The Ghost in Me to digital format for the Kindle last December, I was less than enthusiastic about repeating the process for the Nook. I'd heard that all the different readers weren't necessarily compatible. And so I slipped into the ease of procrastination--a habit I've mastered when facing difficult challenges. However, after mustering up the courage to tackle the task TODAY, I couldn't believe how easy publishing my story on Nook turned out to be!

Unlike Kindle, which required me to use Amazon's digital conversion software, Nook allows the author to simply upload their publish-ready manuscript directly from their word processing software. (I use MS Word). Nook does the conversion to digital format for the author in mere seconds. Plus, Nook was also able to handle the images that were included within the Microsoft document. The images showed up exactly where they needed to be on the reader, in color, which was a nice bonus. The whole process, beginning with setting up my indie account at B&N to publishing my book in digital format, along with all the supporting information needed to go along with it, took about an hour.

If only Kindle were so easy. Perhaps, in the near future it will be. After all, the kindle direct publishing site keeps adding new features all the time, with the intent of making it author friendly. But for now, Nook wins out in my opinion.

I can only hope that the next two stores where I will be uploading my books--Apple's istore and Smashwords--are equally author-friendly.

Living, Loving New Hampshire Again

2011-08-03T01:23:00.000-06:00

My summer vacation with the kids was truly incredible. It was wonderful to connect with family and friends. The days were so full of sunshine, sailing, boating, fishing, and swimming, it was amazing to think I actually found time to sit back and relax in one place from time to time and simply enjoy the scenery.

Yet, even in those quiet moments, I was reminded of how when we settle down and be still, the world continues to move and breathe and fill in all the spaces around us with some form of energy, however subtle that may be.

The same can be said for writing, or more specifically, for writing about settings. (Yes, I always try to connect my posts to the subject). In a previous post, I said that a story is lost without a sense of setting. However, a setting is not simply colors and temperatures and textures and sounds. It's not enough to say, "The ridge was lined with green trees."

It's important that the setting be layered with a sense of movement, or energy.

Avi begins The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle with a setting that moves with the character:

Just before dusk in the late afternoon of June 16, 1832, I found myself walking along the crowded docks of Liverpool, England, following a man by the name of Grummage.

In Drowning Ruth, Christina Schwarz's setting seems nearly alive:

Lakes were scattered all over this part of the country, their outlines different, but their innards just the same. They were drops and drips and splashes on the land. They were holes and craters lined with skin too thin to hold back the springs that rushed to fill them, and most of them were dotted here and there with stubborn little islands, knobs of land that refused to dip their heads under water.

Good stories are written with settings that carry their own form of action, their own essense of life. In the real world, in nature, we become unsettled when something goes wrong, when the world becomes suddenly still--like the calm before the storm, causing us to stop, step back, and wonder what has happened.

Likewise, a reader can be thrown out of a story, or become disengaged, when the setting is too quiet, or too stark, or too absent (unless that in itself is part of the storyline). If too much is missing, if the reader doesn't become connected with a living world inside a book--one that moves and pulses with energy--then the reader isn't likely to stay too long. They'll wonder what is wrong, and perhaps, if they can't connect on a personal level with the character, they may walk away and connect with the energy of another.

I'm happy to say, my vacation, with all the combined energies of the quiet and action-packed moments, was far too hard to walk away from. But it's one that I can relive in the memories again and again.

Cache Valley Outdoor Photo Contest

2011-07-27T11:59:00.000-06:00

Yes, I entered! If you like this photo or the next, give one or the other or both a quick vote
; )

Details Matter for Setting a Sense of Place

2011-06-19T23:09:00.000-06:00

I started carrying my camera a while ago, not wanting another moment to go by where I'd find myself wishing I had it with me. Today, the tumultuous sky captured the attention of my daughter and I.

I believe that in the deepest sense of being alive, whether each of us realizes it or not, we are connected to the world around us--both biologically and spiritually. That is why we're drawn to the outdoors--to watch and to experience what nature has to offer. And that is why we are drawn to books and to stories--to connect with something outside ourselves and to deepen our understanding of what it means to exist.

Creating a setting is one of the most important aspects of creating a story. It gives a foundation that readers can connect to. It the is foothold that keeps both your plot moving along. Without it, your characters and your readers can be left adrift, lost, and without balance. And when key aspects are missing from your setting, their absence echoes.

This spring, with the unusual weather, the absence of one of nature's pivotal species--the director of new life--has been sharply brought to my attention.... Bumblees.

The bees are gone. They have been missing from my yard. Whether it be due to the long, rainy spring we've had or disease, I'm not sure; but their gentle flitting among flowers has been missed.

Thus, I've been reminded. Details matter. Even the faint buzzing of a bumblebee--or, lack thereof--doesn't go unnoticed, both in stories and in life.

So, in both places, take care to not overlook the small stuff.

Trolling Deeper Waters, Pelican-style

2011-05-29T23:14:00.000-06:00

Pelicans "hunt" for fish in much the same way that sheepdogs herd sheep. They swim together, fanning out in a line, which spooks the fish into swimming ahead of them. The pelicans continue swimming forward, herding the fish into shallower waters where the pelicans can scoop them up into their expandable bills. I love pelicans! And I'm so happy we have a flock nesting in Cache Valley this year.

But of course, I'm not just a pelican lover, I'm a writer, and so now, I'll connect the dots between these two, because there's a lot to be learned from these magnificent birds.

Re-writing or editing a novel can be a lot like fishing, pelican-style. You swim over the surface of your story, checking plot, sharpening your characters, defining their motives, while herding the entire story into the shallows. Doing so allows you to focus in on what you've been mining for all along, the underlying message you really want your story to say, the emotional connection that feeds readers and keeps them connected.

Herding the "meat" of your story takes patience; it takes time; it might even take a little team work from your critique group; but it is entirely necessary for bringing up the treasures lying beneath the surface.

And if you do your job right, perhaps those treasures will even take flight.

Happy writing everyone!

E-volution. How e-books have made publishing easier for local authors

2011-05-13T16:10:00.000-06:00

Local authors go digital - The Herald Journal: Center Feature: "Admit it, you've always wanted to write a book."

Challenge for the Week....

2011-05-10T22:57:00.000-06:00

Do something different, something you wouldn't ordinarily do, just for the heck of it.

What have you got to lose?

Not the experience. That, you get to take with you.

Winners of Children's Book Week Giveaway.....

2011-05-08T11:25:00.000-06:00

Thank you to everyone who stopped by and entered the giveaway!

Christie won The Ghost in Me
Ruthie won Duck Duck Moose
Elizabeth won Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again

This was a fun week, and I hope you had time to participate in some local events in your area.

Happy Mother's Day!

Giveaway for Children's Book Week! May 2-8, 2011

2011-04-29T22:43:00.000-06:00

http://ning.it/huxAjk
To celebrate Children's Book Week, I am giving away 3 signed books.

The Ghost in Me by Shaunda Kennedy Wenger
Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again by Shaunda Kennedy Wenger
Duck Duck Moose by Judith E. Torres

Each of these books has been talked about and summarized on this site, so browse around to find out more about them. ;)

Entering the Giveaway is simple. Simply leave a comment telling me which book you'd wish to receive, and leave an answer to these two questions:

Who is most likely to hear about a great book you have read?

Where do you find new books to read? (friends, reviews, sites, etc)

Check back at the end of the week to see if you are a winner!

Lastly, jump on the link here to see other book giveaways.

Children's Book Week is hosted by Mymcbooks & Co-host Family Literacy and You

Good luck, have fun, and spread the news of a good book or two!

Children's Book Week May 2-8

2011-04-20T22:01:00.000-06:00

kids and books! What could be better? To help celebrate, I am giving away 1 copy of each of The Ghost in Me and Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again, and another book or two that will be announced during that week.

My site will be linked to a bunch of other sites giving away children's books as well. All you have to do is hop on the blog link and hop away to enter free books! Details will be posted at the end of the month, so stay tuned!

Photo - Op with a Star (sort of)

2011-04-17T21:56:00.000-06:00

How many times do you get to have your picture taken with a movie star?

For me? Never.

Until today. A day that will go down in history for the celebration of birthdays.

Because today, I got my picture taken with Tina's son, Elvis.

You remember Tina.... The llama from Napolean Dynamite?

She was great. Is great. And I got to meet her son, Elvis. He's a new neighbor of mine.

Isn't he cute?

I had to duck, because he was getting ready to spit on me. I'm sure it was a friendly birthday kind-of-spit,... because I told him it was my birthday.

Book-signing event at Hastings in Logan, Utah

2011-04-17T14:19:00.000-06:00

Fun evening! Hastings did a great job promoting the event.

Who is that gorgeous girl on the cover?

Baby Animal Days at the American West Heritage Center

2011-04-10T21:21:00.000-06:00

Fun times with Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again

Judy and kids enjoying "Duck Duck Moose"

Out and About

2011-04-08T14:58:00.001-06:00

I'm starting to like the idea of being published again, especially when I have a friend who can share in the experience.

Judith Torres (author of Duck Duck Moose) and I went to the UELMA conference together, where we shared a booth and got the opportunity to introduce our books to school librarians in Utah. It was a great weekend. As it turns out, we were able to schedule some school visits, the first of which is coming up at the end of April at Edith Bowen. We're both looking forward to spending the day with those students.

On our way home, we learned once again, the power of perserverance and the importance of never turning down an opportunity when it presents itself. As Judy was driving toward my house, we passed a red-tail hawk sitting on a fence post. It's one I had seen a few times over the previous week. Great minds think alike, and we both decided as we drove past, that we wanted that picture. We immediately went into "stalking" mode. Judy put the car in reverse and rolled down the window, and at the just the right kodak moment, I snapped the picture.

We're proud of this one, even if it turns out the hawk wasn't really cooperating and only showing its butt.

This weekend, we are presenting our books in story time at the American West Heritage Center in Wellsville, Utah, as part of the Baby Animal Days celebration. I'm storytelling and singing with the kids for my book, Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again, while Judy is sharing Duck Duck Moose. Both of these books fit into baby animal days, because of all the little critters that star in the books.

I'll post more photos on that later.

Litte Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again

2011-03-28T22:54:00.001-06:00

It's been a busy few months. I'm thrilled with my latest announcement. Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again is now available.

This book is a chapter book for ages 7-10 that follows Little Red, as she makes a second journey through the forest. Will she follow the advice of her mirror, who warns her about talking to strangers?

I wrote this story several years ago, and it was one of my favorites to write and illustrate. It's a great feeling to finally see it published.

Here is the book trailer, if you'd like to see what it's all about.

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Roll it!....... A book trailer is born.

2011-03-20T12:17:00.000-06:00

Hello friends! Here is my new video for The Ghost in Me. I hope you like it!

If you like it, please feel free to go ahead and share it. ; )

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Goodreads Giveaway

2011-03-15T09:26:00.001-06:00

My book, The Ghost in Me, is being offered in a giveaway contest on http://www.goodreads.com/. Enter if you like. Contest ends on the 20th.

Find the link under the "explore" button.

Or, try the link here.

Goodreads Book Giveaway

The Ghost in Me

by Shaunda Kennedy Wenger

Giveaway ends March 20, 2011.
See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.

Enter to win

Good luck!

In the meantime, I am recovering from a 3-hour Genetics mid-term.

I Love Living Life. I Am Happy.

2011-03-12T10:52:00.000-07:00

famous last words...

2011-03-02T14:37:00.001-07:00

Can you guess which movies this line is from?

My, what big eyes you have....

I've actually been looking forward to this movie, so I hope the writing and desire to stick to the original story doesn't make it as ridiculous as the new trailer leads me to believe. It IS supposed to be a thriller, right? Not comedy?

I think most people know what the classic story of Little Red Riding Hood is about, so I fear that lines like "My, what big ears you have.... and My, what big eyes you have.... are just going to put me over the edge, because WHO talks like that in a creeeeeepy forest?

Maybe I'll just watch the movie with earplugs, because the visuals look pretty intense.

Memories, and lack thereof....

2011-03-01T15:18:00.000-07:00

My recent blog post to extreme donuts brought me down memory lane, at least in regards to telephones. I remember when my family owned a Mickey Mouse telephone, like this one.

I loved that phone! But where did it go?

I don't remember.

I fear Mickey may have met his demise after one to many falls off the counter.

Which brings me to my new quest. Or, request.

I think I'd like a new phone. One that is reminiscent of the character and zest of the good ol' days.

Mickey would be nice, but I think the stilletto phone shown below is more my style.

Why? Because I figure, if I can't learn to walk in a pair of shoes like this, at least I can have fun talking in one.

Any takers?

Anyone not worried about giving up 20 pounds or so for the investment? (It's available in the UK).

As for the rest of my rant today on memory, mine is ka-put. I knew I should have noted the steps I was following while I was transforming my Word doc into PDF format in a way that would not compress the pictures. So far, in my goal to repeat that process and move beyond the last stage of copy-editing my next book, Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again, I can not remember what I did before. All my pics are being saved at a low dpi in the PDF document, which doesn't bode well for printing in quality form. Thus, I can't release the book. YET.

UGH!

Picture book marathon

2011-02-19T10:57:00.000-07:00

I have learned a lot on this month's journey. It occurred to me during a discussion about chordates in my Biology class the other day that I've also learned a lot about the nature of things from reading and writing. Specifically, from the scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz, I learned that you don't need to have a brain in order to learn how to use one. So that's it! Perhaps this organ between my ears is a stumbling block.

JK ; )

Thus, the latest picture book from the mixed up files of Shaunda Wenger

Picture Book Marathon

2011-02-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

I am floating somewhere in the midst of the middle of the marathon, realizing I may only finish a half-marathon, but I'm totally digging that, especially since this month's running has been piggy-backed with the release of The Ghost in Me, and readying the release of Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Forest Again. It's been busy. And Little Red would be ready to go, but I need to find a pdf conversion program that will not compress the resolution of my images inside the book to a quality that is lower than 300dpi. (IF ANYONE has any SUGGESTIONS on this, please send them my way. I would be so appreciative!)

Aside from that FRUSTRATION, I'm completely thrilled with the picture books I have drafted so far, and can't wait until I can dive into creating them sometime in the next couple months!

I have so much going on right now in my life, it is crazy! I hope someday I feel like I'm getting it all done.

Love you all,
me

ShiftHappens

2011-02-15T20:22:00.000-07:00

Picture Book Marathon

2011-02-14T00:25:00.000-07:00

Given the hour, I'm not sure what day it is in the picture book marathon. Today, I didn't get a new pb written, but I did work on revising the proof copy of Little Red Riding Hood: Into the Forest Again. This is a chapter book for ages 7-10, and I'm hoping it will be ready for publication by the middle of March.

Little Red Riding Hood was a favorite bedtime story of mine when I younger. I loved Little Red's bravery as she set out to walk throught the forest by herself to visit her grandmother. This sequel came to me one sunny winter's day in February 2007. I loved all of the characters as they met Little Red, but Big Bad surprised me the most.

Here is the cover, based on today's changes. It shows both the back and front sides of the cover.

Other than that, I am so amazed at the talent and skill of other Utah authors and illustrators. Julie Olsen and Will Terry announced the release of a new picture book as an application for ipad and iphone users that allows the interactive viewing of children's picture books. I'm so impressed with the direction that digital books are taking. This is yet another way to enjoy literature, while embracing the world's expansion into new technologies. Check this app out at http://www.jujubeeillustrations.com/. I bet this will be a much-loved application of parents who travel with toddlers, but want to lighten their load with the books/entertainment they carry.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Day 3 for Me. Picture Book Marathon

2011-02-09T22:05:00.000-07:00

Another day near done. Here is part-word, part-photo essay of the day's and past week's events.

Started another pb, and will finish it tonight, then write the other that just popped into my head.

After the catastrophe of dropping my paper with my handwritten story in the puddle, I switched to creating little 32-page booklets, that I scribble my text out on. It's working great actually, because I can see the structure of the book in my hands as it unfolds with each page-turn, and it helps keep the word-count to a minimum, since my page space is only about 5x5inches.

Shot a video of Judy Torres reading her book, Duck, Duck, Moose, to some school kids today. It went great! The kids loved it. The teachers loved it. "Book Trailers R Us" is the next venture. ; )

A few days ago, I was lured to the side of the road--or rather, the side of a speedy highway--to capture this photo of some hopeful, patient ducks. At first, I thought they might be waiting for the ice to thaw, but perhaps they are waiting for the fish to bite?... Ice fishing, anyone?

The rest of my week and the days to come is recorded in a list a that is five pages long. Yes, that's my to-do list. I'm getting thru it, bit by bit, but I also have always been good at cramming, especially when it comes to crunch time.

For now, I'm just fueling the muse with chocolate, as shown by the wrappers piling up on my desk...

Happy writing everyone!

My 2nd Day of the Picture Book Marathon

2011-02-08T19:33:00.000-07:00

If you are a writer, who strays from the computer and scribbles your ideas out on paper, then you need to read this bit of advice.

Do not use felt-tip pens.

Mine was part of a set of 4 that I got as a Christmas gift. I thought they were so neat. That colorful set of four: black, red, green, blue. So, of course, when I sat down to write my first pb for the marthon, I turned to this thoughtful gift.

Unfortunately, the ink of this thoughtfut gift runs right off the paper, if you happen to be rushing into work and your paper that holds your new story, that you shoved into your notebook, falls out of that notebook in the midst of all your rushing and lands in a puddle. A deep, dark, wet puddle.

And stays in that puddle all day, because you are inside working, where you should be, and even end up staying after-hours, because that is what you do when students ask for extra help, and you don't return to your vehicle until the end of the day and find that paper soaked all the way thru, with a few hints of that coloful, red ink blotching up the edges. It even tears in half when you try to pick it up, because it is drenched and would prefer to stay stuck to the pavement where it has been laying for 7 hours....

7 hour-work-day. Rough, I know. I shouldn't complain.

I don't. And I didn't, because this is how life works for me.

So, I did my best to pick up the sopping paper that once held the words to my story, and put all three pieces of it in the back of my car, because I don't litter, and headed home, and sat down, and rewrote my story.

The good news? I think I like it even better the second time around!

Now I just have to find a safe place to put the paper that it's written on....

And the funny thing is, the title still includes the word, CAUTION!

Picture Book Marathon

2011-02-07T22:06:00.000-07:00

I told myself I would do this event this year. Despite crazy hectiness (yes, that is my new word, in the spirit of picture book creativeness (another new word), I finally made it to the starting line. Last night I woke a little after midnight with 3 ideas rattling my brain. I had told myself I had to wait until Monday (today) to start, so at 1:30 in the morning I got out of bed and started writing. I'm so excited to be digitally and spiritually connected to so many wonderful people--especially those who love to create books for children.

This year's logo for the marathon was designed by author-illustrator crazy-man Nathan Hale. Isn't it cool? His website has tons of fun stuff, so if you want to check it out, visit http://www.spacestationnathan.com/

As far as my tally on pb so far, my first picture book is based on the word, Caution. Don't know if that's a good sign or not. We'll see!

Thich Nhat Hanh

2011-02-03T19:43:00.001-07:00

More Apps for the Print-on-Demand or Self-Publishing Author

2011-01-30T14:48:00.002-07:00

In designing the covers for my two latest projects (see links at the top of this page), The Ghost in Me (Feb 2011) and Little Red Riding Hood (March 2011), I found two useful and FREE tools online. Although both are available for purchase in more advanced platforms, if you desire.

The first program is photo editing software at Picnik.com

I used this program to create, enhance, and adds effects and text to both book covers. For The Ghost in Me, I started with a photo I had taken of my models. Obviously, what I ended up with is far different from what I started with. The original photo is shown here.

I also used Picnik to enhance photos that I had created for the extreme donoughts project that Rick Walton and I are working on. (Merged photos were first made in Jasc Paintshop Pro).

The second program that I've found I cannot live without is Artweaver 1.0, which I downloaded from the web. It follows the same format as Paintshop, which is nice since I'm already familiar with that program. And overall, it is even easier to use. Artweaver helped me fine tune the watercolor image I had painted for the Little Red Riding Hood cover. This program can also be used to create original digital artwork on your computer. I used this feature to create my company logo.

Simple, I know. But simple is good.

Also, as far as scanning in the artwork I had created for Little Red Riding Hood, I made life easy with the fine folks at Alpha Graphics in Providence, Utah. They scanned all my images on to my flashdrive for a reasonable rate, which saved me from buying hardware and taking time needed to learn to use it.

Other artists/writers have had success going with this sort of route, as an alternative to scanning in images themselves. I know that Judith Torres, author of Duck, Duck, Moose (Lazyone.com, Feb 2011), was very pleased with similar tasks completed for her at Square One Printing in Logan, Utah.

So, if you want to create your own artwork, but don't want to deal with uploading it into digital format yourself, look into local printing stores as a resource.

What Works, and What Doesn't

2011-01-23T22:03:00.001-07:00

Here's what works on the road to publication: Lots of long hours at the computer, while wearing many different hats, but it's oh-so-worth-it.

If all goes well, I will officially be releasing The Ghost in Me for publication in early Februray. I'm pushing for the 5th,... just because it sounds nice. The ghost's face is more prominent on the actual book cover, than how she appears here, btw.

Here's another thing that works:
Skechers tone ups!
Especially when those long hours at the computer keep you from the gym, provided you at least get up and walk around a bit.

Heres what doesn't work:

at least, if you're a NY Jets fan.

Here's another thing that works:

Smiles. Even when you want to pull your hair out.

Food, of course always works, too.

But here is what doesn't work for writers, who type, think, and talk with their hands......

Doritos, 3rd Degree Burn

yes, jalepenos go a long way

And that is all I know. for now.

What works for you? What doesn't?
Post here. ; )

The Week in Children's Apps: December 23, 2010

2011-01-02T11:56:00.001-07:00

The Week in Children's Apps: December 23, 2010

One of the children's books featured in this article, which is now an e-book, was a favorite for me to read to my younger sister when I was a child. So neat to see it here! The Monster at the End of this Book.

Emerging Technologies Debated in France

2011-01-02T11:52:00.000-07:00

Emerging Technologies Debated in France

New Tools for the Writer's Toolbox. Part 1

2011-01-01T17:41:00.000-07:00

In my last post I said I would share what I learned on this journey in print-on-demand publishing. The first tool I'm going to talk about is one that I believe is crucial to anyone who is submitting manuscripts to editors today: the Kindle Previewer.

Note that I wrote PRE-veiwer.

I'm not suggesting every writer needs to purchase a Kindle, or a Nook, or a Reader.

However, I do believe writers who are trying to break in with a traditional publisher should consider using the Kindle Previewer tool prior to submitting a manuscript. It is available as a FREE download at Amazon through their self-publishing/e-store link.

WHY the Kindle Previewer?

I'll give you 3 good reasons.

1. In the paperless age, most editors now request manuscripts to be submitted via email. But what they see probably isn't what you see on the computer screen in your standard word processing program. Based on what I've heard at several conferences, many editors now upload submitted manuscripts on to their digital readers, which puts your manuscript into digital book form. And believe me, viewing manuscript pages as "real" book pages, makes typos, strange formatting, poor grammar, long sentences, etc., stand out. ....It gives editors all the reasons they look for in considering whether to reject a manuscript, or not. Digital readers show editors how well you have done your job as a writer, and how hard or easy their job as an editor would be if they were to take on your manuscript.

Sound like bad news? More work? Maybe, considering that just because a manuscript looks "clean" in Word, it may show errors on a digital reader due to hidden codes in the document.

2. Here's the good news. Editing your own manuscript has never been easier, if you use a digital previewer. Typos, wordiness, orphans, unnecessary tags, etc., jump out at you.

In years past, one of the steps I used in editing was to view/print my manuscripts in a font other than what I typically used. For example, Times Roman is my standard font. Thus, during editing, I would print my manuscript out in Comic sans, or Courier. This helped errors stand out, and tricked my mind into reading the story with a fresh point of view, probably because I was seeing it in a different form.

As writers, we are all readers. Uploading and viewing your manuscript with the Kindle Previewer immediately gives you a reader's point of view in examining your story, because it puts the story in book form.

3. If the editor of your dreams happens to be one of those editors that uses the Kindle or the Nook as a tool for doing their job, then going through this extra step will not only help you fine-tune and copy-edit your manuscript, it will also help assure you that your submission is formatted appropriately for easy viewing, giving the editor one more reason to love you and your story.

Comments? Questions? Post them here. ;)

Publication on Kindle: Middle Grade Novel

2010-12-20T16:30:00.001-07:00

It's here! After lots of hard work, The Ghost In Me is available for purchase here as an ebook from Amazon for the Kindle and most other electronic platforms. The paperback will be ready in about 2 weeks. Amazon hasn't uploaded the book's description yet, so I've typed that at the end of this post.

My hopes are high for 2011. The publishing world has been changing so quickly in the past five years. With the ease and accessibility of formatting for digital platforms and the internet making it possible to connect with other businesses in the industry around the world, I've decided to go for it on my own after working/writing within this business for 15 years. Thus, The Ghost In Me is the first title to be launched by "Essemkay Company Productions." A few more books and products are scheduled for release in the months ahead.

Because I've learned much on this road, I'll be blogging about tips I can share in order to help put other writers ahead in their own journeys. If you're interested in learning what I've come to know, I've added a button for anyone who might want to follow me on this publication highway. Aside from publishing and writing, I also blog about life, love, and funny things that happen along the way; so if anything, maybe you'll find some of those topics entertaining.

Thanks so much to my friends and family for all your support and encouragement. You are all incredibly wonderful, and I'm blessed to have you in my life.

Dear Santa, ...

2010-12-15T13:53:00.000-07:00

Blue Bonnet Margerine Update

2010-12-10T20:14:00.000-07:00

Good news! The good folks at ConAgra foods, who make Blue Bonnet margerine, are working hard to correct the issue of the apparent shortened sticks. Apparently, the graphics/artwork on the wrappers are not correct in depicting where each tablespoon begins and ends. Rest assured, they assured me via email that the problem will be corrected henceforth in margerine stick production. So, we can all sleep a little easier, knowing Santa will get the correct calories and texture per cookie on Christmas Eve night.

Amazing to think I may have made the world better one stick at a time! Or maybe a whole bunch of them, all at once.

On a lighter note, I am looking forward to seeing Voice Male in concert at the Ecceles Theatre on Saturday night with my son. Can't wait to be filled with a little holiday spirit.

Poll for Teen/Pre-teen boys

2010-11-27T10:34:00.000-07:00

Author Ken Baker is hosing a poll on what boys like or don't like to read. It's quick. Visit his site to participate.

http://www.kenbakerbooks.blogspot.com/2010/11/do-teen-and-pre-teen-boys-like-to-read.html

I am Grateful .. Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T20:11:00.001-07:00

Consumer warning! Users of Blue Bonnet margarine

2010-11-21T13:55:00.000-07:00

First of all, this product does not come with batteries.... Just thought you should know....

Secondly! Details matter. Writers are told this all the time: get the facts, the details, the little things about your character, your setting, your plot right, lest your reader be thrown into a mild attack of panic, should he happen to pick up on your error. Panic could lead to heart palpitations, which could lead to cold sweats, or gasp,...lawsuits!--none of which are pretty (remember James Frey's A MILLION LITTLE PIECES?--superbly written, btw, just a bit murky on facts). Which is why I feel inclined to share the following warning--which doesn't have anything to do with writing.

It has to do with baking. Another hobby of mine where details matter.

Attention Bakers! Both New and Experienced! If you happen to be a user of Blue Bonnet sticks of margarine, then BEWARE! Santa's cookies are at risk! As well as any other goody you happen to be baking for the holidays. Because after months of cafeful observation and monitoring, I have come to the undisputable conclusion that sticks of Blue Bonnet margarine don't appear to deliver what we, the consumers, are led to believe we're purchasing. Each stick appears to be a tablespoon too short. Rather than 8 tablespoons, each stick seems to have a 1/2T cut from each end, leaving you, the baker, with only 7 tablespoons.

Thus, if you're baking your favorite batch of cookies that call for two sticks (i.e., two cups), and you blindly dump those two Blue Bonnet sticks into your batter, then you will end up Two TABLESPOONS short.

And what does that mean?

Dry Cookies!!!!!

Dry Cakes!!!!!

Dry Pastries!!!!!

Dry! Dry! Dry!

Take heed, my friends. I want you all to have a happy set of holidays. ;)

Farewells

2010-11-09T22:56:00.011-07:00

My grandmother passed today. Tipped her hat off to the world after 94 years. It's amazing to me to think that she lived nearly a century. In the little time we shared, I barely touched a part of her time spent on this earth. But when I was a part of it, we shared a lot--much in the way of conversation.

Talk,...yes, she could talk. She'd talk of dress shops, and farm trucks carrying vegetables, and huge sides of beef hung to cure in the upper room of her mother-in-law's farmhouse. She'd talk of walking across fields in winter for Thanksgiving dinner with friends on the other side of town, meeting the man who would become her husband, and boast of a sharp wit and accomplishments that only a woman of strong will and spirit could have done. I'll never forget the day she took me on a jaw-dropping tour of the place she worked in the capitol--all during a time when few women worked outside the home. She had a quick temper that she wasn't ashamed of, an equally quick laugh, and a fondness for pretty clothes, hats with attitude, and dinners out on the town.

She loved traveling, especially to see family and research her roots. Being a tall woman, she owned a big car. And I believe it tickled her fancy to travel in it with her sister, her aunt Kate, and other friends up and down the East coast. Her eyes sparkled when she reminisced her various adventures, especially if they involved moments when she had to stand up for herself--take a stand on being a woman, if the situation demanded it. And some situations did demand it. After all, she grew up and out of a time when the ideas of womanhood are different than they are now. At one time, she said she slept with a gun, and if she needed to, she wouldn't be afraid to use it.

She was a woman of the road, so to speak--molded out of a period of history that saw the progression from horse and wagon, to Model T, to Chevy Bel Air. I can only imagine how she must have felt commanding her own auto, making her own way, captaining her own freedom. Among the other women in my life, she was definitely a source that fueled my own drive, my own courage, my own strength to move out and into the world to find my way simply through her example of what it means to take hold of something and go with it.

She was also a bit of sleuth, and took pride in uncovering the family history--discovering secrets that old city files and libraries held for those that possessed tenacity and perseverance, like herself. She had a laugh that rang like jingle bells.... Well, maybe not quite,... but its sound definitely made you want to inch closer and find ways to hear more.

We shared a fondness for sweets, and we both had a weakness for Devil's Food chocolate cake. She was proud of her own recipe. Even her mother-in-law, Elizabeth Shade Kennedy, had recorded it in her own cookery diary. ...At the moment I'm at a loss for what else to say. I know that after what she went through in the past few years, she is in a better place. I'm glad she was a part of my life, and I'm thankful for all she taught me--both from the good and the bad. She lived what she knew. And I will miss her.

******************************************************

Gina,

You definitely left this earth too soon, but not without having touched many lives. Some of the best memories I have were created with you, my friend. It's strange to think how deeply those fresh, young experiences shaped who I would become. Because of that, they have been, and always will be, part of who I am. Now that your eyes are looking down from heaven, mine will be looking up, hoping to catch hints of that beautiful smile that could light the world.

New Olympic sport!!!!!

2010-11-01T23:26:00.006-06:00

Yo-yo-ing spiders.

As in, yo-yo action.

Yes, you heard it here first, folks! See it first, too!

Real, live yo-yo manuveurs featuring such tricks as ...

Walk the dog.

Round the world.

Loop D loop....

Pictures to follow. Complements of an adventurous young son.

Check back soon.

Signs

2010-10-28T20:16:00.006-06:00

There are so many different types of signs.

Stop signs.

Street signs.

Warning signs.

Signs of love.

Signs of hate.

Signs of the times.

Good signs.

Bad signs.

Hand signs.

Plus signs.

Reading-between-the-lines signs......................

It seems to me that there should be a rule that when you come across one--at least, a really important one--then, some sort of instructions should come with it. Kind of like a sign with the sign. An interpretation. An explanation. A footnote.

Because I've been told SO many times that the Lord, and Fate, and Karma, and WhoKnowsWhatElse work in mysterious ways. And usually, those works are shown in signs. The Trick is knowing when you're getting one, or seeing one--a real-live, relevant sign from some other Power That Be. It all seems so nice, doesn't it? So comforting. So-glad-to-know-someone's-looking-out-for-me.

The problem is, that throughout the course of the day, or the week, or the month, or the year, I'm bombarded with signs. Some of them I follow. Some of them, like this one, I shouldn't (long story). But I worry that most of them--the ones that might be worth noting--I probably just miss. And the ones I do come across, I don't know what what to think about, or if I should think about them at all. Like the crystal blue forget-me-not found on a bench, or the flying 50-pound chimney cover that missed my head by an inch.

I guess it shouldn't matter. Some signs are easier to follow than others. And if someone IS looking out for me, planting signs, some of which I see, and eventually, I end up in the places I'm supposed to be, then maybe I don't need those directions with the signs, afterall. Maybe I'll just settle into being comfortable, bumbling along, enjoying what it means to be me.

Mark Twain....

2010-10-10T21:30:00.013-06:00

has not

lost his touch

with the ladies....

I guess it's only fitting that these latest escapades happened while I was at a writer's retreat deep in the mountains somewhere near a place called Wolf Creek. Obviously, Mr. Twain was not in attendance given his current occupation in attending to other distractions.....

Stay tuned. More details to follow, as they become available....

Through a child's eyes

2010-10-05T15:40:00.005-06:00

Recently, my son and I were having some sort of discussion centered on what we would do if we could do anything. Our ideas were far-flung. Learn to fly like a bird. Swim like a dolpin. Sail the world. Eat a billion gallons of ice cream.

Then, of course, I got silly and decided to dream smaller. More tiny. Focus on something I could nearly pinch between my fingers. Rather than wish for something as grandiose as sailing the world, I'd just get one freckle removed. Specifically, I'd get rid of the small blotch above my right eye. An age spot I seem to have acquired after finding too many ways to have fun outside.

My son looked at me like I was crazy. "Why would you want to do that?"

I asked why he was concerned--if he was worried I might actually get rid of it. If he'd miss that freckle when it was gone.

"Well, it's in the shape of a heart," he replied. "I like it."

In all the times I've spent looking in the mirror, getting ready for work, or wondering how I might lighten that blotch, I never realized there might be something good about it. Something to like. In that moment, as simple and trivial as it may seem, I actually felt better about myself. Some say I wear my heart on my sleeve. I never thought I might being toting a tiny bit of it above my right eyebrow.

Later, I began thinking about the pure and beautiful outlook kids have for the world.... What if more people made the effort to see things in a better light? Find the good in bad situations? Find the good in others and then share that opinion?

What if we didn't assume people whom we care about knew all the good things and reasons we have for liking them? What if we voiced those thoughts? Wouldn't that goodness go forth like a ripple?

I like to think it would.

Maybe life really does come down to the little things. Maybe changing the world for the better or helping people heal inside and out doesn't really take so much effort. Maybe it just starts with something as simple as telling someone you like that divet in their forehead, the curve of their smile, or that constellation of agespots streaming their way over their eyes.

The Power of Pink

2010-09-22T14:14:00.019-06:00

Recently, I tasted the color of pink, thanks to a frosting from Pillsbury. Although the flavor was called "pink vanilla," it was definitely heavy on "pink" and light on vanilla.... Life just gets fuller all the time, doesn't it? Because where would I be without the opportunity to contemplate the power of pink?

After reviewing the facts, I've realize I haven't given PINK the respect it deserves. More so, I've totally underestimated it.

Not only does pink have it's own flower,

it has its own fragrance from Victoria's Secret. Want to know what PINK smells like? Check it out at your nearest VS or Bath & Body Works store. This shower gel is one of my all-time favorites.

And who doesn't know what this pink ribbon stands for?

Or who owns this car?

Or, what a "pink slip" means? (Yikes!)

Pink even has its own celebrity musician.

If that isn't enough to show pink's new-found power in the world, then take a look at this...................................................

Pink construction equipment!

Whoot!

Now if only I could find myself a pink lawnmower. Or even, a pink hammer. Or, a pink power-drill. Surely, this world has room for one of those, if not all of them. Connections, anyone? Because I'm tickled pink at the thought.

Names!

2010-09-13T17:24:00.003-06:00

What's in a name? A lot. Ask any parent who has looked at their baby for the first time. Or, any author who has chosen a name for a character. Names can say so much. Who can forget Severus Snape? Or, Ember's Doon? Or, Roald Dahl's Charlie Bucket?

Which is why I had to laugh when I saw the names on these football uniforms at a recent game. Who can't believe in the skills of players with names like Killer, Fat Boy, Sweetness, and Magic? Turns out this team can. According to parents of players who have gone against them, this team is dominating the Wasatch Front Football League in Utah. ...Something to think about, or at least chuckle over.

Dinner!

2010-08-07T13:46:00.003-06:00

Living, Loving New Hampshire

2010-08-06T23:07:00.016-06:00

I've been back in Utah for a while now, land-locked, but adjusting to life without Lake Winnipesaukee out the back door. The week in New Hampshire was finished off with a few more "firsts."

First time handling the sailboat in strong wind for a couple hours without handing the reins over to dad.

First time water-skiing for daughter (woot!)

First time attending church on Bear Island--yes, we had to get there by boat, then hike the half mile to the church at the top of the hill.

First time water-skiing back home from church.

First time I actually considered the merits of lake-front property in the form of a rock. A rather large, unoccupied rock that sat on the wooded lakeshore. Any other rock in any other old place might not have value, but this one, I'm guessing is special.... It has a view. It offers a solid foundation for a house. It probably is available. The only problem is, it probably won't be mine unless I can dig up a sweet mill or two. You see, rocks--particularly those lakeside, or even within the lake, are prime real estate. Plenty of houses have been built on rock, like this one that happens to be its own island.... I'd like that. Some fine day.... Heck, if I had my rock, I'd be happy with a hammock--two poles sunk in the granite with a net strung between them. That'd be enough for me. For a while anyway. With a boat moored off-shore a wee bit away.

It's amazing that after going to the lake for so many years, I can still find so many firsts to experience.

As for the rest of summer, it's back to tackling projects--finishing up some old ones (hoping to get those manuscripts out the door) and jumping into some new ones. Haven't had much time to fish lately, but maybe I'll find a bit of time on the rafting trip next week that my school administrators are hosting. Idaho! Here we come! Sorry, kids, I think you'll enjoy a day of school without us. The sacrafices teachers have to make every now and then.....

Happy days!

New experiences

2010-07-15T07:28:00.002-06:00

Vacation has been absolutely incredible. The weather is perfect and events of the past week so far have proved that we're never too old to experience new things. Some of my "firsts" are:

-- seeing five loons swimming on the lake together in front of our cabin

-- watching a big turtle climb up on the deck at the back of a boat to sun himself

-- taking a ride on dad's new sailboat....awesome! Love it.

-- finding out I really do know how to sail a boat, despite the doubts of all my years

-- witnessing the look on dad's face as my daughter cast his new rod and reel into the lake after he'd just taught her how to use it.... the only thing he forgot to tell her was "to hold onto the rod"...

-- fileting first pair of fishes, thanks to the idea of sons who want to eat what they catch

We'll see what the rest of the week brings us.

Signs of Summer

2010-06-19T23:00:00.011-06:00

The official list.....

1. It may not seem possible that flip-flops on snow could be listed as a sign of summer, but for me, it is. After enduring an unreasonably long, cold, wet spring, my daughter and I found both sun and snow in Colorado over Memorial Day weekend. With a free day to do whatever we pleased before the soccer tournament, we headed up to Rocky Mountain National Park where they had plenty of snow and 90 degrees of heat--which is why we were wearing flip-flops.

It worked out great, actually, because I'd never hiked on snow in a pair of flip-flops before. And I never would have thought I'd enjoy it. But I did. Not only was it refreshing, but it tickled my feet, which made me laugh as I ran through it on tip-toes....all the better in my opinion.

2. Being chased by kids for a car wash....not that they had the wash-thing down--just the sign, which they found in a nearby field.

3. Boys on rope swings on the Blacksmith Fork River. Oh! to be young again.

4. Baseball......and more baseball. 4 days a week. Need I say more?

5. Movies! All the good ones are coming out. Prince of Perisa was fun. And so was Shrek. And Iron Man 2.

Which leads me to my next topic. I'll be brief....

Titles.

My daughter's friend recently commented that he went to see the movie, Killers. Based on the previews, he thought it was going to be a romantic comedy. Not having seen the previews myself, I thought he was kidding. Afterall, the movie was called, Killers. But no, he was serious. "Everyone wound up getting killed, in all sorts of horrible and different ways," he said. "It was bad. Not what I expected."

?!? Not what he expected !?!

Okay. So maybe the movie delivered what it promised. You can't be any more clear with a title like Killers. But in support of our seemingly clueless friend, I did see the preview after our conversation, and it really does look like the movie is going to deliever lots of laughs. So, until I see the movie myself, I guess I have to give him the benefit of the doubt and accept his surprise. Because it's funnier that way.

And besides, as I've discovered, there are movies that do seem to offer different content that what you would assume you're going to get.

For example, 1408 is not a historical drama (it's a ghost story). And The Secret Life of Bees is not a documentary.

Silly, I know.

One more thing....If America is missing the Statue of Liberty, I saw her in the back of truck on Highway 7, heading south, near Boulder. ... Just passing that information along, in case anyone was wondering.

Rambling, Again

2010-05-02T22:38:00.003-06:00

A copy of In Black Bear Country arrived last week on my doorstep (yes--it was actually put there by the postman), and I must say, it looks great. I'm so excited to think it may soon be reaching kids in classrooms. Thanks so much to the editors at Richard Owens Publishers for giving this book a chance. I tried getting my camera to upload a copy, but it's a no go at the moment. Agch technology!

It's been a while since my last post. I've gotten a new manuscript written--which could be a creative nonfiction companion to In Black Bear Country--and am now going through the critique-group route with it. I'm hoping to have it sent out to an editor or agent by the end of summer.

In the meantime, Rick and I are keeping our fingers-crossed on a new manuscipt we wrote together at our last retreat. The whole process of writing it was so hilarious and fun, it almost still makes the waiting game bearable. Almost................

Twiddle, twiddle, ...let's see if that chunk of chocolate cake I just ate for a near midnight snack will kick in and spark some sort of imagination into these ramblings.... Sugar rush, anyone? Maybe not such a bright idea for one who has not slept much the last week. I still need to get up and work tomorrow. New quarter starts for the kids at school.

As for being mom to my own kids, I took my youngest to the dentist to check up on a tooth his brother yanked out this past winter....(they wanted cash from the toothfairy, who tends to be a bit of a slacker in this household and who doesn't seem to be too worried of threats to have her replaced...). Anyway, seems the boys loosened and yanked a tooth they shouldn't have. That tooth they plucked wasn't really ready to come out for another 2 years or so... SO, youngest will have a gaping hole in his smile for another 2 years. Poor guy. His brother wasn't too remorseful. Played the big brother part to form by laughing while reminiscing their whole foolish adventure.

(Nearly) Hot off the Press!

2010-03-21T11:19:00.006-06:00

I admit, I can be a glass-half-full sort of person. But I also know I am quite capable of completely filling that glass up. All it takes is allowing myself to get into one of my chipper, carefree, no-worries-in-the-world kind of moods.... And a little bit of good news is more than helpful in putting me there. Like finding out that after more than 7 years your book is finally going to be published. Plus the fact that you've actually just seen the layout of the pages and are actually making final proof edits. Yes, that is more than a little helpful in filling my glass up for the day. Or the week. Or the month.... And if I can tie all this into a few good days of fishing, it could definitely last longer than that.

In Black Bear Country is going to the printer on Wednesday. It's being published by Richard C. Owen Publishers of Katonah, NY, for the educational market, and my editor expects that they will have books in house on April 9... just in time for my birthday a few days later. (I won't tell you what year I'm celebrating.) This has all come as quite a shock over the past 24 hours, since I thought the books weren't going to be ready until April 2011. Suddenly, it seems like all sorts of exciting things are happening. Although really, to be honest, not all that much is unfolding here on my end of the spectrum, but it's neat to think that a flurry of activity is happening somewhere out in the broader world that is linked directly to something I did.

I'm especially excited that this book is going to be published for a lot of reasons. One, it will show kids, teachers, and parents an aspect of black bear ecology they probably don't know about. Two, it may rekindle or strengthen an interest in the the protection of black bears and preservation of their habitats, which include much more than a cave on mountain in the woods, which seems to be the limit of what most young kids know. Three, it shows how preservation and protection has been accomplished for one area in Vermont. Four, did I mention 7 years? Yes, it's been a long wait. Good thing I'm patient. Although, in truth, I didn't expect publication would happen at all for In Black Bear Country, because 4 years ago I'd been told the project had been dropped. It wasn't until 3 months ago I received a letter telling me it'd been picked up again. So, here we are--sitting on a small, yet happy, mountain of news.

To celebrate, I'm heading out to enjoy the sunny, blue-sky weather with my dear friend Kristen and kids. They'll soak up the sun, and with a little luck, I'll hook a finny or two with a lucky cast on the fly.

Enjoy the day, everyone.

March Madness and Other Things

2010-03-14T14:06:00.004-06:00

Believe it or not, I'm actually taking part in March Madness. Not the basketball stuff so much--although I will watch a good game when I come across one--but another kind of madness I've never actually done before. Writing madness. In public, that is. I signed on to participate in a writing marathon set to run Thursday thru Saturday, as hosted by the wonderful ladies who blog at Throwing Up Words. Since I'm working, I won't be able to write round-the-clock over these 3 days, but I have set a goal of putting down 5,000 words on a new novel. We'll see how it goes.

Other than that, I have a question. What is up with Hollywood these days and the apparent lack of ability to write a good ending to a movie????? Recently, I watched THE BOX, and this movie rates as one of the worst I've seen in a while. My daughter put it right up there with the ending, or lack there of, for DEAR JOHN. And then there was PREMONITION, which my daughter and I watched last night. Another let-down, because apparently, after waiting and wondering all through the movie how Sandra Bullock was going to beat Fate and save her husband from a horrible death, she didn't. Fate won.

...Well, fate can be good and bad. I know this. You probably know this, too. But I don't necessarily like being reminded of the fact that it can suck big time. Especially after you're hoping the heroine of your movie will work it out somehow. Authors are supposed to do that. Find amazingly brilliant ways of working it out in the stories they write, leaving the rest of us with the hope that we can work things out in our own lives, too. Maybe even apply some of those brilliant ideas we've read about or watched. Sheeesh. I felt significantly cheated.

...But on to other things....The weather is warming, the snow is melting, and I'm looking forward to brighter days. Which reminds me. Today is daylight savings. And I have no idea what time it is, although I realize I just lost an hour. And there's still a lot of work to be done....Yikes! Signing off. Until next time.

Ciao!

Beauty Tips

2010-02-25T21:53:00.002-07:00

For attractive lips,
speak words of kindness.

For lovely eyes,
seek out the good in people.

For a slim figure,
share your food with the hungry.

For beautiful hair,
let a child run his fingers through it once a day.

For poise,
walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.

People, even more than things,
have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed;
never throw anyone away.

Remember, if you ever need a helping hand,
you will find one at the end of each of your arms.

As you grow older,
you will discover you have two hands;
one for helping yourself,
and the other for helping others.

--Audrey Hepburn

Valentine's Day

2010-02-08T22:56:00.012-07:00

Happy Valentine's Day to all my friends and family...

Yeah, I know this post is early, but the week is a busy one, so I'm taking time now to send this one out; ...because I'm truly thankful for the sources of love in my life that flow like fountains.

Here are some favorite quotes.

"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive." -- Anais Nin

"I love you, not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you." -- Roy Croft

"A single rose can be my garden...a single friend, my world." -- Leo Buscaglia

"Friendship isn't a big thing--it's a million little things." -- unknown

"Love is a condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own." --Robert Heinlein

"A hug is worth a thousand words. A friend is worth more." -- unknown

"A good friend is hard to find, hard to lose, impossible to forget." -- unknown

"If I could reach up and hold a star for every time you made me smile, I would have the whole night sky in the palm of my hand." -- unknown

"Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light." -- Helen Keller

"Love, actually, is all around us." -- from the movie, Love Actually

And because I enjoy writing and reading stories, I'll list some of my favorite books/movies touching on love and friendship.

Tristan and Isolde (James Franco)

Pride and Prejudice (Colin Firth)

The Lake House (Sandra Bullock, Keanu Reeves)

The Proposal (Sandra Bullock)

Titantic (Leonardo DiCaprio)

While You Were Sleeping (Sandra Bullock)

Love Actually (Hugh Grant)

The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks

The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare

Jane Eyre by Jane Austen

Vanishing Acts by Jodi Picoult

The Saving Graces by Patricia Gaffney

Happy Valentine's Day!

52nd Grammy Awards and 2nd Bear Lake Retreat

2010-02-02T15:08:00.005-07:00

Have you ever thrown a fist full of glitter in the air?

A productive and fun writer's retreat at Bear Lake was capped off with the 52nd Grammy Awards. My favorite performance of the evening was Pink's "Glitter In The Air." http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dls0GznlQeE

Despite the fact that an offer to publish a project that Rick and I had been working on was withdrawn right before our retreat, Rick and I managed to pick up my spirits and co-write another fun manuscript. Hope blooms eternal! We were also treated to Randall Wright reading the first 10 chapters or so of his next novel, which he co-wrote with Carmen Deedy. I can't wait to see this manuscript in print. It's sooooo good. I know my kids will love it!

All in all, the company and time spent together, along with the impromptu guitar-playing and late-night conversations, were fantastic. And to think I managed to get through the weekend this time without fainting, proving it was not Rick, nor Mark, who have that effect on people. Plus, having an unexpected foot and a half of fresh powder for me to ski in at Beaver Mountain before I headed back down Logan Canyon served as icing on the cake!

Bucket List

2010-01-21T12:00:00.004-07:00

It's amazing how surprises and kindred connections can pop up in the most unlikely of places.

Last night I met with my writing group in Mantua, which happens to be one of my favorite spots in Utah. Not only is it beautiful--a small town sitting at water's edge--but a feeling of peace always seems to envelop me when I visit.

As a group, we always set goals for each other that need to be met during the two weeks that follow. While doing so, I mentioned one of my goals that I'd set for 2010, which was to learn the ins and outs of sailing. Turns out, going for a sail is on Claudia's bucket list for 2010, too. (She doesn't want to learn; she just wants to be a passenger enjoying the ride, which is all good.) And, to top that, Karen's neighbor has a boat and loves, loves, loves to take people out on it.

So, we came up with a 2010 bucket list for our writing group as a whole.

1. Go on writing retreat to Idaho cabin

2. Go sailing ... Mantua works! Time to look into boat rentals and such....Or, neighbors.

3. Go for a hot air balloon ride ... Park City, here we come!

4. Publish a book ... one for each of us!

It's a short list. Nothing too daunting, right? All we need is perseverance, and we'll get her done.

MLK Day

2010-01-18T10:19:00.002-07:00

With a child sick in bed today, and no new snow in which to go play, I am feeling like those 2 kids in The Cat in the Hat. But there is work to be done. Chores. Recipes. Driving the other kids to their activities, so we'll stay out of trouble. At least until we decide to make some of our own.

2010 Goals

2010-01-14T10:25:00.011-07:00

So,... here we are in 2010. Rather than make resolutions, I'm making a list of goals. Things I'm planning on for the next few months. Things to look forward to and work toward.

1. Weekend with fellow writers at Bear Lake in January, where we'll get that next cookbook done! Hurrah! Hurrah!

2. Lots of skiing with kids in February....We should have more snow, right?

3. Weekend in Vegas with daugther in March. (Why Vegas so much? Vegas is far from my favorite place on the planet, but it's funny that I'm running out of fingers to count the number of times I've been there. I owe it mostly to soccer. And books, I guess.)

4. Get back to water. Fishing should be geared up in April.

5. Spend week helping friends build their yurt as soon as the snow melts. That power drill handed down from a friend should come in handy, so long as the tape holding the battery holds up.... Make mental note...bring tape.

6. Here's a resolution... learn to sail with confidence. I mean, really learn to sail, by reading books this winter, so that when I take the tiller with my dad this summer, I can get rid of that nagging fear that I'm about to knock everyone overboard. (Because I've been there, done that,... in Boston Harbor, while crossing the finish line in a sailing race. It wasn't pretty.... And although it was many years back, some things you never forget. And although I've sailed a boat many a time since then, I've never really thoroughly enjoyed it because of that nagging doubt that I don't know what I doing. So, for 2010,...here's to conquering self-doubt!)

Trials and Tribulations of a Loose Tooth

2010-01-04T12:28:00.007-07:00

Okay, so living through the experience of loose teeth has never been dull in this household. From dealing with a daughter who would not pull or tug on any of her teeth until they were hanging by mere threads to coping with a son who would rip them out with fingers, or pliers if needed, at the first signs of them being loose, I'm now left with shielding the youngest of the three from their antics.

I've always hoped for a happy medium with him. Unfortunately, I don't think I'll get that. Since the older brother no longer has teeth to lose in his mouth, guess who he's turning his teeth-ripping skills on?

You guessed it. And said young son has fell victim in the past. And right now, that son has a loose tooth. And although he would very much like it out of his mouth, the memories of loosing his last tooth still burn a little too brightly in his mind. And mine.

I mentioned pliers. And I was totally serious, although my olders son's fingers have served pretty well without them as a pair of vice grips when it comes to pulling a tight tooth. This son has also resorted to other adventureous tactics--tying strings to the bathroom door, then slamming it shut with his foot (it worked on the second try--although why and how he would have repeated this feat a second time after a failed first attempt, I have no idea). And those strings remained until the doorknobs were recently changed out. There have also been heavy objects launched off the top of the stairs (tied to his tooth, of course). And who knows what else. His younger brother's fingers, I think.

Anyway, I mentioned the last tooth extraction of my youngest son. He'd had a loose tooth, and his older brother found out about it. An older brother, who knows the ins and outs of the capitalistic advantages of the tooth fairy. So, when the youngest complained about his loose tooth, he said, "Let me get it out for you."

At first, his younger brother refused, but after a bit of prodding along the lines of, "You want money, don't you? Then lie down on the floor and let me pull it out!" he finally agreed to have some help. Help that began with him lying on the floor and offering up his mouth, while his older brother straddled him and started pulling.

Yes, he pulled. Pulled and yanked and pulled some more. And he didn't stop, even though his brother writhed in pain and screamed for mercy.

Finally, the tooth yielded. My older son held it up with pride, asking, "Did I get the right one?"

The younger could only hold his mouth, and nod, and hope that he had.

"Then, that'll be a buck, please."

Yeah. The older, magnaminous brother charged his younger brother a buck. A fee for his services. Which could be paid after the tooth fairy's visit.

How much does she usually leave? A buck.

Ah, my enterprizing young sons....

We'll see what happens this time. Since my youngest has come to me many times in the past 24 hours about his tooth, I kind of get the feeling that he wants me to take care of it. He probably thinks I won't charge him.

Good thing I got that new tool kit from my folks this year. I might have my first opportunity to dig into it.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T11:56:00.007-07:00

Yes, Happy New Year.

I won't tell you who's in this picture, but I think it says it all, as I'm sitting here staring down the dawn of 2010.

So, I've found that I like snow again. All it took was getting outside to enjoy it by doing something fun. Like skiing at the local Beaver Mountain. All the locals have been complaining there wasn't enough snow, yet--including some folks I know who work there--but wanting to get out of the valley for a change of scenery and better air, I went.

At first, I was going solo. Daughter was sick, sons were at a sleep-over and were not interested in leaving friends behind. But by the time they got home, saw me packing up, heard me talking about 6 inches of new powder, they decided to come along. Which made the day so much better. It's more fun to ski with someone else, especially a couple of boys who know how to tear it up on the slopes. And I was able to keep up, thanks to the fitness training my daughter has kept me working at for the past many months as she's worked to stay in shape for soccer. It was a great day. We found plenty of untracked powder, and even the numerous branches sticking out through the snow weren't a problem. We just turned around them.

Cheers to more of that fluffy white stuff.

Happy New Year!

The Lights at Temple Square in Salt Lake City...

2009-12-24T09:22:00.007-07:00

were beautiful last night.

We started the evening with A Christmas Carol, which was performed at the Hale Center Theatre in West Valley City. Highly recommended! Then we feasted at The Macaroni Grill in Salt Lake, and finished the evening with a walk through Temple Square. It was incredible! Every little branch supported a string of lights. My favorite spot was the reflecting pond with the illuminated floating bubbles.

That said, I'd like to remind everyone of the four basic food groups at Christmas. Candy, candy canes, candy corn, and syrup. ...Anyone know what movie this is from? It's one of my favorites.

And, to top things off, my youngest has decided to put Santa to the test this year. When he sat on his lap last week, he asked for a squirrel.

Yes, a squirrel.

A real, live, teeth-and-claws-squirrel.

His older brother, who visited with Santa next, asked for a pony and a girlfriend. To which Santa replied, "You're too old for the first, and too young for the second." Unfortunately, he didn't give the youngest a witty reply, so Christmas morning will be interesting, unless Santa finds a way to bait and trap some furry rodent while traveling over Wyoming or other nearby state that hosts such critters.

Happy Holidays!

Good Times

2009-12-03T14:16:00.010-07:00

It's been a while since we met, but holidays and other events have a way of bringing friends back together, especially friends who love to talk about books (and many other things--some of which I could never talk about here--but that's what makes them so fun).

We met at local restaurant and were treated to many surprises of the evening, including dessert on the house and a bottle of wine bought for our table by a friend of a friend. Thank you, Paul! The 7 Deadly Zins is a new favorite vino. And thank you, Ted! You helped make the evening special.

I love these ladies. They are one of the many blessings in my life.

I don't know what I'd do without them.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-27T11:00:00.004-07:00

So, it's the day after we devoured turkey and stuffing with all the fixings, and I'm still feeling incredibly blessed. I do have much to be thankful for, even though some days I feel completely overwhelmed. And here it is, Black Friday, a day I opted not to shop and woke instead to see why I'm the luckiest mother in the world.

I'm thankful for two boys who will wake themselves at the crack of dawn to make sure they can surprise me with breakfast in bed. (I tend to be an early riser.) It was one of my favorites. French toast, a mini ham and cheese omelet, and OJ. And they did it all on their own.

I'm thankful for a daughter who tells me she loves me and that I'm her best friend. A daughter who showers me with hugs and plays uplifting, empowering songs when I need them, even though I'm not telling her I do. A daughter who stands by me in the kitchen before and after the Thanksgiving meal to help with preparations and clean-up. A daughter who hands me her size 3/4 jeans because she thinks I can wear them, after I see that mine are too big and no longer fit. (I won't tell you if hers fit, though!)

I'm thankful for family and friends who show their support and share their love and help keep me focused on my hopes and dreams. I'm thankful for a wonderful home, good schools that help educate my children, the means to put food on the table, and strong health. I'm thankful to have full days to enjoy, the sun when it shines, and a future that keeps me looking forward. And I'm thankful to live in a state and a country that affords us so many freedoms to do the things we do.

Happy Holidays!

On Moving Forward

2009-11-19T09:37:00.003-07:00

My friend Darla shared her favorite quote with me. I thought I'd post it here.

Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving. --Einstein, in a letter to his son.

Make it great day!

What were they thinking? (Patriots)

2009-11-16T23:22:00.003-07:00

Okay, so I turned off the game and sent the boys to bed, so that I could watch my movie (Nights in Rodanthe--yes, it was good) before it got too far past my bedtime. After all, with 2:38 minutes left and a 13-point lead, and Tom Brady handling things, while Peyton and crew seemed to mangle key plays, I thought all would be well. And so did my boys. They marched off to bed in good faith.

However, I lost all credibility on the football front when my youngest brought in the morning paper and asked through a veil of confusion, "Who lost by one point last night? Was it the Colts?"

He was trying to sound hopeful.

I spun from my desk.

"One point! Did you say, one point! They had been leading by 13! With two minutes left to play!"

But I knew before I even snatched up the paper, deciphered the meaning behind the amazing photograph of Reggie Wayne's catch, that I should not have doubted Peyton. I knew he was capable of amazing come-backs such as this. After all, the announcer had reminded me so on their last failed drive before I clicked off the TV with confidence.

I won't doubt him again. Watching those two drives would have been fun. (Don't tell my sister. She's a true Patriot fan.) Me? I just hate missing out a good game. What was I thinking?

Sights are on the playoffs for sure.

Another blog, and interview

2009-11-12T07:21:00.006-07:00

Okay, so life has been a bit crazy the past few months, and while surfing the web this morning, catching up on what my writer friends have been doing, I realized I forgot to share an interview that I did with Lori Nawyn in August. August.

The calendar tells me that was 2 months ago.... To me, it seems like that was merely days ago, or at least a handful of them. But, if you're interested, you can check out the interview here, as well as the other useful and insightful posts and interviews she has. Hopefully, I'll soon have good news to share on some of the projects I talked about. (Fingers crossed!)

Lori has her own good news. The book she illustrated, What Are You Thinking?, written by Valerie Ackley, is a 2009 National Best Books Awards finalist. What a wonderful accomplishment! Congratulations to Lori and Valerie!

Make it a great day, everyone.

The Proposal, a great movie

2009-11-08T09:03:00.008-07:00

My new favorite movie is The Proposal, and I owe all thanks to my daughter who said we absolutely had to watch it (She'd already seen it with a friend, and wanted to see it again--and a third time, as it turned out, by the time she watched it with me.) Anyway, I loved it. I had no idea I would be laughing so much, until the end, when I cried, but only because the ending was a happy one. Even my boys liked it, which was surprising, since they are boys, and The Proposal is a romantic comedy, which is all good, because it means they have soft spots in their hearts and are willing to sit down and enjoy a movie that a mom, or a sister, or a girl would like to watch.

As for the rest of the week, it's work, work, work, a bit of rewriting on a manuscript, and then the SCBWI conference in Salt Lake on Friday and Saturday. I'm looking foward to hanging out with fellow friends and writers Judy Torres, Laura Madsen, Sydney Salter (My Big Nose and Other Natural Disasters), Bree Despain (The Dark Devine), Karen Nelson, and many others, and meeting editor Elizabeth Law from Egmont and agent Kendra Marcus, if I'm lucky.

Survivor!

2009-11-01T11:06:00.008-07:00

Yes, I survived. Or, rather, we. My daughter and I, when we rode the Big Shot on top of the Stratosphere in Las Vegas last weekend.

We were there for the Las Vegas Mayor's Cup soccer tournament that her team was playing in, and a friend had suggested we take that ride on the Big Shot, or at least get to the top of the Strat for the view. Lucky for us, these plans became part of the team's agenda for Saturday night, since they didn't have an early game scheduled for Sunday morning.

But as the captured Kodak-moment shows, even 4Gs of being shot 160 feet upward at 45 miles an hour isn't quite enough to zap my brain into motion. It took more than a few moments for me to realize, that yes, we were indeed moving, possibly and quite quickly, toward death. And by the time I was in full comprehension of my experience--that I may not survive--the zero-G's bestowed on us as we plummeted back downward kept me from vocalizing any of the sheer terror I felt in comprehending that there really was NO WAY off until it was over.

But of course, once it was done, I kind of wished I could do it a second time. And maybe a third.... What's up with that?

All in all, getting away to Las Vegas was great. The sun was warm enough to kiss my skin, the soccer games well-played and enjoyable to watch, the watershow at the Bellagio perfectly timed to impress upon my teenage daughter that I really might have clue as to what we were doing as we toured the strip, and the singing bus driver on route to the terminal was fabulous enough to end the weekend with a smile. Although the singing vacuum cleaner--i.e., the fellow who was riding a motorized vacuum cleaner at the SLC airport while singing Kumbaya upon our return--left me a bit perplexed over the intricacies of human nature.

As for daily life, the sun and warm weather have returned for at least a few more days in northern Utah before the snow truly starts to fly for good. Although I like to ski, here's hoping the sun will stick around for a little while longer.

Finding Inspiration in Kokanee Salmon

2009-10-10T22:29:00.009-06:00

A couple weeks ago I took my kids to see the bright red kokanee salmon making their way upstream in the Little Bear River above Porcupine Reservoir. As I watched these beautiful fish swimming among the rocks in the shallow water, I struggled with wondering what sort of inspiration could be drawn for both life and writing from a journey in which a fish returns to its hatching grounds after a few short years of life solely to spawn and die. What drives that undeniable urge? And why?

Although as humans, we're nothing like fish, I've come to realize that in some ways we may mirror this behavior when we allow ourselves to give in to that gut-wrenching pull toward something or someone we like in hopes that the journey forward will lead us to a place that resembles our roots, shapes the foundation of our soul, and sharpens our senses to the point of knowing what it means to truly be alive. So that at the end of it all, we can say, yes, life's ultimate journey was worth it, even if we did get battered among the rocks along the way. Because feeling something is the first step toward believing, and believing in something provides the purpose for moving forward, even if we're swimming against the current and dodging all sorts of debris coming our way.

For me, I want to believe that the ultimate journey will have been about love. I want to be able to say that I held on to it when it was found. That I did everything I could to make it grow, and that in doing so, in sharing it with those around me, made my corner of the world a better place.

Last week, I came across a quote I liked from Souza. Here's part of it:

Love as though you've never been hurt before....Live as though heaven were on earth.

Out of the Dust ...

2009-09-30T06:29:00.019-06:00

and chaos and complete utter mess that a remodel can bring.

I had no idea what I was in for when the remodel on our house started, and now that the largest part of it is done, and we are back to living on the first floor, it almost seems like the summer has been a surreal existance, at least as far as trying to stay connected with the writing and publishing world. I learned that I can not necessarily write "anywhere," at least as far as keeping up with office to-do lists. Being limited to 2-square-feet of floor space at an itty bit desk-that-is-not-a-desk in my daughter's room underneath the watchful starry eyes of Ashley Tisdale and Taylor Lautner (who is now wallpapered on my screen, thanks to youthful daughter) did not do a lot for inspiring the muse to keep the blog updated. (Or the photos downloaded--sorry, Mom! Those will follow.) But thankfully, the embers that feed the creative side--at least as far as making fiction--kept burning and I managed to wrap up my middle grade and get a picture book hammered out by writing in quiet pockets outside.

It's hard to believe summer has passed by and fall is well upon me. The first big rain of the season lured me from bed early this morning, and already I'm looking forward to drier and warmer weather to return. There are too many things left to be done in the garden. Green beans and corn plants are ready to be ripped out, and limas, carrots and beets are standing tall for harvest. Thank the Lord for a friend like Kristen, who does not have a garden and who has found a new passion for helping in gardens that are not her own. We have a date to do all good things with beets, carrots, and a bottle of wine on Tuesday. Yesterday, we tackled the beans, tomatillos, zuchinis-that-are-now-listed-as-deadly-weapons, cucumbers, and tomatos. Good times, good times.

I'll leave you with a few photos of summer journeys 2009.....