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Two quick things before you head off to enjoy the weather (which I am really hoping will warm up! Seriously, Texas, what is up? It is May!) Anyway...
First, I'm presenting at DFWCon tomorrowup in Hurst, Texas, right near Fort Worth and Dallas. I cannot wait for this conference! It's going to be such a blast. I'll be talking at 4:30 on Saturday about writing for kids and teens and about other writerly things that will hopefully captivate the entire audience. So please come see me!
Happy Friday!I hope you all have tons of wonderful weekend plans made. Or maybe you plan to relax. Maybe, just maybe, there is a perfect medium between the two. If so, let me in on your secret :)
It's been a few weeks since my last five on a Friday, but here are my five:
1) I had a blast earlier this week presenting at St. Stephen's Episcopal School as part of their Literary Fest. I caught up with Austin author Sara Bird (who I haven't seen in ages), met Texas Tribune CEO and Editor-in-Chief Evan Smith who helped orchestrated the whole thing, had a wonderful lunch with Austin author Mari Mancusi, met Nita Shuffler who is the librarian extraordinaire at St. Stephen's, and even met former Go Go Kathy Valentine who was just a doll. The event was really well run, and the faculty and parents were so appreciative. So let's hear a big "Woot" for people who love books and reading!
2) There's nothing quite like wearing a tiara! So I couldn't resist donning one during the reception after my daughter's First Communion last weekend.
(yes, I realize I look like I'm getting married)
3) Over on the Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels this week, we're featuring Danny and Julie Woodfill, co-owners of The Book Spot in Round Rock, Texas, and the creative minds behind the upcoming YAB Fest on May 11th at Round Rock High School! If you have a moment, stop over and show some love for an awesome, local indie bookstore!
4) I am so so so behind on reviewing books! It's not that I haven't been reading. In fact, I've read some amazing stuff recently. So that said, I am going to be doing some whirlwind reviews to catch up.
5) As for what I'm working on these days, revisions are keeping me happy and busy. Day and night, it's the Egyptian mythology book, TUT (Starscape/Tor, 2014). Why happy? Because there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Why busy? Because that light is kinda far away.
So that's it for me this week! How about you guys? What is going on? And I leave you with my favorite video of the week. Enjoy!
4 Comments on Five on a Friday, last added: 4/12/2013
Happy Friday! Hope you're all having a lovely week!
Here are my five:
1) Why do I love Texas? Because it's like 70 degrees out right now. I'm wearing a tank top. I think I got a suntan while driving today. I know, you all want to move here, right?
2) I had a blast this week visiting Taylor Middle School! They gave me an incredible welcome and were awesome listeners. You know what makes an author visit a success? Awesome librarians and awesome teachers talking about the books and the author to the kids ahead of time and getting them excited about it! Thank you, Taylor!
Love the transformation of the white board!
Me with librarian Renee DeHoyos!
3) As it turns out, I am our Girl Scout Troop's cookie coordinator this year. Sounds, scary, I know. And it's my first time selling girl scout cookies in some horrible amount of years. After a week and a half in, here's what I've discovered:
Girl Scout cookies sell themselves. No hand-selling required.
Thin mints are delicious! How could I have gone so many years without eating them?
It's not a difficult job as long as I stay organized and on top of things.
You know girl scout cookies are called different things in different parts of the country?
Nobody wants the new, "healthy" cookie. Bring on the thin mints.
5) Have I given a Wizard101 update in a while? What, I haven't? Okay, here it is. I am now level 55! Seriously, so cool, right? And look how very awesome I look, too.
That's it for me! Happy weekend!
5 Comments on Five on a Friday, last added: 1/25/2013
First time GS cookie mom and I have 22 cases between my house and van. Snow on the ground here in Blacksburg VA. VT cancelled classes this afternoon. (Juat a little FYI from SW VA)
Hey Susan! I miss VT! Wish I was there to enjoy the snow day. Those were the best :) Well, you're probably not thinking so, and I guess it is hard to sell cookies in the snow. Stay warm & eat lots of cookies.
1) I mentioned I was going to be guest-blogging on Tor.com about the cover of SOLSTICE. You can find the guest blog here!
2) In a few weeks, the Austin SCBWI Digital Symposium is coming up! I wrote a guest blog about the importance of being able to "Do it Yourself!"that you can find here.
3) I have postcards for SOLSTICE! If you are interested in any, please email me, let me know how many you want and where to send them, and I will get them out!
4) I interviewed Gretchen McNeil for The Enchanted Inkpot! Please check it out here and show Gretchen some book love!
5) This week, we're happy to welcome our first Featured Sweetheart of the fall, librarian and blogger, Naomi Bates, over on The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels blog! You can learn all about Naomi here!
6) I'm busy reading THE DIVINERS by Libba Bray (Little, Brown, September 18, 2012).
Hope you all have a happy weekend!
3 Comments on Five on a Friday, last added: 9/21/2012
1. I've had a glorious Cape Cod vacation, despite family craziness and all. Seems it's somewhat difficult to get three independent girls to agree on what to do when away from all their friends and things. One wants to bike, the other wants to go to the beach, another wants to hang out and shop, etc., etc., etc. Thankfully, we developed quite a nice routine and a good time was had by all.
2. Limited Internet: Dear Internet, as much as I love you, it's been nice to not have to bow down to your every whim and become captive to virtual time suck. Amazing how much more time I found to write, spend time with the family, read, and simply relax. I vow to take more vacations from you in the future. We'll both be the better for it. Truly.
4. Spy Girl is on her third book this summer! My reluctant reader is really into Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson books - she is now on The Titan's Curse.
5. My incredible critique group likes my changes to PB, and this makes me so happy! I'm starting to realize all my hard work is coming together and it is very empowering.
How was your week?
7 Comments on Five on a Friday, last added: 8/31/2009
Jama,<br />You'll really enjoy I Capture the Castle! The protagonist is wonderful and the tone of the book is similar to Jane Eyre. <br /><br />Nowheymama,<br />Thanks!<br /><br />Heather,<br />It is good to do--if just to clear your mind. Good luck!
Just reading about the Cape makes me feel more relaxed. I do love it there. I'm glad you all had such a nice time, and yay to more time for writing!
Isn't I Capture the Castle so much fun? I've recommended it to so many friends. It was a great book club read. Love to hear other people enjoyed it.
It's been so long since I last posted, I fear I've lost my blogging touch. Thanks everyone, for your patience! Hopefully, this is just like riding a bike...
1. I'm making progress on my revisions and I'm excited with how everything is pulling together. I'm now a little more than half-way through what I hope to be the FINAL revisions of PB!
2. The kids will be in school in 13 more days!!! Not that I'm counting. We're all ready for school to start. The kids miss their friends and have pretty much had it with sisterhood. I'm tired of all the bickering. If I hear one more, "You're a pea-brain," or "I'm bored," or "We never do anything fun," I think my head will explode.
3. My sister posted some of her artwork on Etsy! She's an architect turned artist and will donate 10% of your purchase to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Check out WonderRoom!
5. It's been so hot and humid here in Massachusetts, I've been making refreshing homemade smoothies! We're soymilk drinkers in my house, but you can easily switch to milk. Also, you can freeze leftovers (if any) into ice pops.
Here are a couple of the kids' favorites: Strawberry Banana Smoothie: Bag of frozen strawberries, two frozen bananas, ice cubes, soy milk, a pinch of sugar -- Blend -- Four Generous Servings Blueberry Banana Smoothie: Three frozen bananas, 1/2 bag frozen blueberries, ice cubes, soy milk, pinch of sugar -- Blend -- Four Generous Servings
Here is my favorite: Coffee Latte Smoothie: 1 mug fresh brewed coffee, 1 mug soymilk, ice cubes, pinch of sugar -- Blend -- Just for Me Serving - Relax and Enjoy!
Have a great weekend!
13 Comments on Five Things on a Friday, last added: 8/24/2009
T. Anne,<br />Enjoy your smoothie!<br /><br />Angela,<br />The 27th! Bet you're planning your writing time...and while you're at it, try a smoothie!<br /><br />Beth,<br />Thank you.<br /><br />Sarah,<br />I messed up the measurements for the coffee smoothie and just posted the adjustments. Hope you enjoy!<br /><br />BrittLit,<br />Thanks for stopping by. The smoothies are amazing. Hope
Ben,<br />You're so sweet. Glad you like the avatar--makes me feel all cool and glam. You can get a Mad Men avatar, too. Go <a href="http://www.amctv.com/originals/madmen/madmenyourself/" rel="nofollow">to the Mad Men Yourself site.</a> I'll stop by your blog in a few!
Your sister's artwork is lovely! Does she live near the aquarium? Or what's her connection there? (I'm in California not far from the aquarium.)
Hey, Susan! My sister used to live in Oakland and loves the aquarium, but she's now on the East Coast. Glad you like her artwork--there's a sample of it up now--with more on the way!
It's been a busy week, catching up from last week's vacation and conference, preparing for family and friends to come over tomorrow to celebrate Middle One's First Communion, writing a newsletter for The Husband's clients, and getting PB wrapped up tight. I'm running a thousand miles a minute today, but wanted to share my gratitude for some of the fun things this week.
1. I found a beautiful First Communion dress for Middle One yesterday. Whew! Down to the wire. She didn't fit into Eldest's white dress or shoes as I had hoped, so the hunt started a few weeks ago to no avail. All the agony was worth the smile on her face--she looks incredible.
2. Middle One and Eldest still give me hugs when I drop them off at school. I've heard warnings from parents not to expect public displays of affection for much longer and I cling on to every moment, not ready to let go. Thankfully, they're not ready either.
3. While I was away for the weekend, the kids and their friends borrowed the Flip and made movies. Hysterical, hysterical stuff.
4. After two years, I've finally come up with blog monikers for my children. Going forward, Eldest will be Spy Girl. Middle One is Ninja Girl. And Youngest is Princess Rock Star. Now I have to figure out what to call The Husband. Jon Bon Jovi is taken. Sigh. So...Nicolas Cage? Colin Firth? Harrison Ford? Hugh Jackman? Hmm....Suggestions?
5. I saw this cool video over at Miss Erin's and had to share it here. It's fascinating how the artist, Jon Schmidt, combined two songs that seem different, yet merged common rhythmic elements and underlying notes, and created a whole new idea. You've got to love how this guy thinks.
6. I'm going to add one more thing since I figured it might be helpful to some of you. One of the presentations I went to at the conference was called "Everything You Wanted to Know About Agents...But Were Afraid to Ask." As you can imagine, the room was packed. Kate Messner was one of the panelists and here are some tips.
Have a great weekend!
10 Comments on Five on a Friday: Catching Up is so Hard to Do, last added: 5/1/2009
So many wonderful things to be happy for! Mine's First Communion is this weekend, too, and he looks like a little heart throb in the suit I got him. So darling!
Spy Girl was part of my e-mail address once upon a time. [email protected], I think.<br /><br />As for your husband... I'm partial to Jimmy Smits, but Hugh Jackman is all over the place right now.
Sara,<br />Just tried out your idea. <br /><br />Sarah,<br />Glad to see another Spy Girl in the mix. Mine is into the Harriet the Spy antics, and she loved the Spy Girl name when I tested it out on her. And Jimmy Smits--yes, he is quite something. See. There are too many choices out there.<br /><br />Priya,<br />Glad you liked it!
Oh, I'm so glad that she found a dress. First Communion is a big deal--and the most vivid detail I remember from mine is how special I felt in the new dress!! :)
Thanks, Calliope!<br /><br />Beth,<br />I don't know. Jon Bon Jovi would be a tough one to let go. <br /><br />Beth,<br />The dress. I know Middle One feels special in it so that makes me happy.
1. Greek pizza from Sweet Tomatoes. Fresh spinach, feta cheese and loads of garlic slathered on pizza dough and crisped up to perfection. Salty, savory goodness with every bite. Yum.
2. Spring is finally here and the heat in the house is OFF! The weather has been great this past week--lots of sun and fresh breezes. The kids have been able to go outside, run around, ride their bikes and have fun. And that makes me happy.
3. A great story idea. This always makes me happy.
4. 7 more days until the NESCBWI conference. I'm getting psyched!
Beth,<br />I'm glad! You are awesome.<br /><br />PJ,<br />Thank you! I'm nervous but very psyched.<br /><br />Nowheymama,<br />I agree. A total winner.
Solvang Sherrie said, on 4/17/2009 7:05:00 PM
I made my kids watch the Susan Boyle video. It's awesome!<br /><br />Can't wait to hear about your conference.<br /><br />The pizza sounds yummy! Maybe I should go make dinner...
Sherrie,<br />I can't wait to hear about your conference! I know you'll do great. Thank you again for the award. I'll post about it soon.
Jeannine said, on 4/18/2009 7:37:00 AM
Hi! I'm doing a poetry workshop at the conference on Sunday, and will be around from Friday night. I hope we run into each other and can say hello, at least! I know there's always quite a crowd, but I'll look out for you! Jeannine Atkins
Jeannine,<br />I'll be there Friday and Saturday. I'll look for you, too!
Suzanne Casamento said, on 4/18/2009 12:07:00 PM
Sounds like you've got a lot to be psyched about! : )<br /><br />Thanks for the info about the Katherine Paterson Award. I'm going to pass it on to my writer friends.
1. I had been debating whether or not to blog about this particular sweet surprise, not wanting to embarrass a friend, but this is such a delight, that I have to share this with the world. A couple weeks ago, I came home and found a package at the door. Inside, was this little poppy doll nestled in tissue paper.
Isn't she the sweetest? (Picture on the left is Poppy exploring my 70-year-old clover--click on the photo to see the detailing.)
Farida surprised me with this handmade flower doll! She knew poppies were one of my favorite flowers (which I always associated with hope and my sister) and made Poppy for me! See her inspiration photo on the right. Thank you so much Farida! You cannot know what this means so much to me. I am so honored and blessed and will take very good care of Poppy. And folks, if you want a treat, check out the lion Farida made!
2. I've been working on my 2009 New Year 30 Day Challengethis week and it's ALL about organizing and decluttering. Yesterday, I cleaned the mounds of paperwork around my printer, and found a gift card I'd been searching for. Now I can go to the bookstore!
3. I tried this new salmon recipe and my family raved. RAVED. My husband was suspect of how the salmon looked. Pale pink salmon without the nice crisp edges from my regular method of broiling. Reluctance spread across his face; change is hard for my man. But, my kids were enthusiastic about this meal and my husband took a bite. And another. And declared his surprise at how good it was. Emeril, we have a winner!
Case in point. Middle child was reading the book and youngest reached over to grab it. Middle child whisked the book away and was ready to smack little one with it. Little one ran off, put her hands at her waist and said, "That's not nice!" Middle one hestitated. "I know." She looked at the book, looked at her sister and sat down on the rug. "Come sit here and I'll read the book to you."
If that's not nice, I don't know what is. Go get the book!
5. I pick up my kids from school every day. Sometimes they've had a bad day and it takes awhile to draw out what happened. This week, they couldn't wait to tell me what was going on at school and we had such a great time talking about the day's events. That made me so happy.
Have a great weekend!
9 Comments on Five on a Friday: Nice Surprises, last added: 1/10/2009
All of these were fun to read, and I'm clipping that salmon recipe!! P.S. Look how those mouse ears resemble hearts on The Nice Book---no wonder your daughters fell under its loving spell.
I new that was Farida! I knew it. How adorable.You are always so ahead of me, Vivian, with life and recipes.(and I know that I've backslipped on my embedded blog postings; will return to all you've taught me once these work pressures clear a bit.
Vivian, that poppy doll is beyond adorable. I find sometimes that my kids didn't so much have a bad day at school but that they are very tired and hungry and can't focus on anything but the bad things. (hmmm, that just gave me a writing idea.) Anyway, sometimes snacks and quiet give the bad stuff a chance to recede and more positive stuff to come forward. But, I know what you mean about how
What an uplifting post! Yummy salmon (which I'm definitely going to try), plus that Poppy doll. SOOO adorable. And so lovely how your kids were eager to share good things from their day. :)
Aww, the Poppy doll is so cute (and you're actually one of the first people I've seen who has poppies as one of their favourite flowers, I like that -- daisies are my favourite). :)-Lanna
1. Life has a habit of getting in the way. Especially when I want to do something. I've shaken off my sullen mood and am back on track since I've written one particular action scene in PB. I'm midway into revisions and conflict has never looked better.
2. Hope. Hope. Hope. Need I say more?
3. My best friend from college who always listens.
4. I've been working on a few interviews with some wonderful authors for the upcoming WBBT and have been wowed with the generosity of their answers. Wait until you read what these talented writers have to say.
I got to write a VERY short fight scene yesterday. You can barely call it a fight scene; my hero so totally rocked. Amazing what that'll do for your mood.:)
You got a new picture!And yes, Hope!Life does get in the way, but I'm trying to make sure when it's my kids, I let it. And let's shove the sullen mood where the sun don't shine!
HWM: I'm looking forward to those interviews! I had a really good voice lesson today. My voice teacher said I've come a long way from our first meeting. I'll admit I wasn't sure how much I would improve, but it's really cool to feel and hear how things are changing... for the better.
I'm all about the hope. I have to believe in the power of hope.Thanks for the link to MotherReader's challenge -- like I needed another one this November! This is actually my fifth post today. Now back to NaNo :)
1. Great news for one of my critique pals...Chris signed her first publishing contract!!! Wahoo! Our critique group has had the privilege of reading the evolution of Chris's manuscript--in the near future, you'll be able to read her book! I am so proud of Chris's dedication and persistence to seeing her dream through. Go on over and congratulate her!
3. I'm starting to get back the critiques from my latest submission and am so excited to get back to revisions. There is specific stuff to wrap my hands around and it makes my job easier to rewrite.
4. The great discussions over at readergirlz this week in celebration of YALSA's Teen Read Week. If you want great writing tips and fun discussions about books, go follow these links:
5. Beth Kephart's books. Oh, my goodness. Talk about poetry in motion. And versatility. Beth is a National Award finalist and has written non-fiction, memoirs, and YA (Undercover, House of Dance and Nothing but Ghosts (to be released June 2009). I'm reading one of Beth's non-fiction books, Into the Tangle of Friendship: A Memoir of the Things that Matter, and savoring every word. No boring non-fiction text here. It is beautifully written, a lyrical treat. If you're a writer, this book will help you analyze the dance of friendships and help convey the emotion, the power of friendship, lost and gained, onto paper. Go read it. You'll want to read her other books, too.
Have a great weekend!
13 Comments on Five on a Friday: The Books and Writing Edition, last added: 11/1/2008
Congrats to your critique group pals on their accomplishments, signings, and more!Beth's books are great. I've read and enjoyed Undercover and House of Dance.See you at the chat tonight. :)
Lorie Ann,You're welcome. I'm in the middle of House of Dance and it is wonderful.-----Chris,Thank you. And enjoy the rush of the publishing contract! Your new adventure has begun! Congrats!
Vivian!!!!!I was sitting here enjoying your Five, then going over to congratulate Chris, then wishing I could see PJ in Austin, then thinking about checking in to see what An Na has to say on ReaderGirlz and I absolutely was not prepared for your number five.I humbly thank you, my dear.xob
I've really enjoyed Beth Kephart's nonfiction, too, HWM, especially "A Slant of Sun: One Child's Courage" and "Seeing Past Z: Nurturing the Imagination in a Fast Forward World," an excellent book about children's reading and writing.
Thank you so much for the mention!And yay for all your five! Speaking of which, I'll do your critique tonight!And Beth's books are moving way to the top of the list! Wait - Amazon hasn't shipped House of Dance yet! I need to check on that!have a great weekend :)
Hi. I teach 4th grade here in Madison, Indiana. I spent a good amount of time browsing your site. Thanks for your words. My site has many issues like yours. I hope to come back soon and read more. Have a good day.
I cleaned out my kitchen closet and found my favorite hat. Perfect for bad hair days and attitude problems, this pumpkin colored hat reminds me that LIFE IS GOOD.
Yesterday, I had about fifteen children, from the ages of four to eleven, in my yard. Thankfully, I found plenty of cornstarch and let the kids make oobleck -- a cornstarch, water and food coloring mixture. The kids had the best time playing with this stuff. In case you're wondering, this is an OUTDOOR activity and occupies a lot of time.
I had a good writing week and was able to tighten up a few chapters of PB. My critique group gets this on Monday.
I found a mouse in my coat pocket. Before you get totally grossed out, let me assure you it was a plastic mouse. After I calmed down, I was on a mission to hunt down the child who planted the darn thing in my pocket. Of course, all of my little ones denied it. Turns out, my husband was the culprit. This little plastic critter has been providing my family with much entertainment and laughs this week. Now I need to come up with new prank. Any suggestions?
Have a great Columbus Day weekend!
13 Comments on Five on a Friday, last added: 10/15/2008
How about sewing their pj bottoms closed? That's what my mom did one April Fool's Day. I recommend waiting until they think you've forgotten the mouse.This week, keep a lookout for interesting mail.:)
I so admire your ability to have MANY children around. Me--mine and one or two more, and I'm maxed out.Short-sheeting? Except that doesn't really get Dad. I'll think on it.
Alkelda,That must have been funny to watch. I'll have to try that sometime. And you're right about the element of surprise...----Becky,Can't wait to find out what you come with!BTW, the kids play outside. As long as they do that, I'm okay. There's no way I could fit 15 kids in my house. But I like it, because I know what my kids are doing. :-) Right now, there are 9 children playing in my
m. thompson said, on 10/10/2008 8:06:00 PM
The stuff from the Life is Good website looks great. Thanks for sharing the website!And I agree with Becky--you are way too brave to have all those children around. Even if they are outside. I couldn't do it.
A snake on a string rested on the top of the doorframe rigged to fall once the door is opened. It's a good oe.Can't wait to read PB!And yes, we call it goop, and it is a blessing!
M,I'm a huge fan of the Life is Good hats and t-shirts. Talk about comfortable! Plus, they are big into doing good and giving back. -----P.J.,This sounds good! I can already imagine how this will play out...
You found your hat! You found your hat? Where was your hat when I needed your hat, as in, say, yesterday, when at a conference full of beautiful women and well dressed men I felt like the most ragged creature in the room (and wished for a hat).I like the sound of your household, plastic mouse and all.Gas is still 3:31 around here.
Home alone with my boys since Thursday, I could have used some oobleck. I do believe we'll be picking up some corn starch on the way home from church today...
Chris,Oobleck is the best stuff. Science experiment and fun hands-on-creativity rolled in one. If you use food coloring, make sure the kids are in play clothes, since they could get stained. And while this is messy, it is so easy to clean up. Have fun!----Beth,I bet you looked great. And yes, we do have fun over in this crazy household of mine. Enjoy your weekend!
I love this post in its entirety, but I am especially fond of the pieces which, when quoted out of context, create a mental picture that differs from the whole truth - example 1: "Yesterday, I had fifteen children" = visions from The Nutcracker, with all of the children emerging from the skirt; and example 2: "I found a mouse in my coat pocket." = Turn it into a story, or I will! :) Congrats on
Your post made me smile for so many reasons! First, I love Life is Good stuff. Second, I made oobleck as a kid. Such fun memories. And, we grew up using the expression, "Have a mouse in your pocket?" you know, when we asked for help with something trivial. Too fun. Thanks for the smiles!
Get some Bluetak and affix that mouse to the underside of his toilet seat. Or the end of his shoes. In his cereal! Or pour him a cup of coffee with wee mousie in the bottom. Yes, this is what happens to this mother's mind when surrounded by boys. Rude, crude and effective.
This has been a tough week, with what I thought was slim pickin's of the good stuff. But, life is full of joy, if you only know where to look, and as my dad told me during a tough time when I was in my teens, "There is always a rainbow after a storm..."
My youngest is now FIVE!!! I look at this miracle of a child and am blessed.
My other two blessings, her older sisters, helped organize a spontaneous birthday party for five-year-old and four of her little friends at our house. This is the first friend birthday party she's ever had and she had a blast. Her sisters helped with the different stations--painting bat masks, face painting, balloon animals (thank goodness for YouTube and good instructions), and a singing/dance area. A good time was had by all.
I decided I needed a break this week and took time to take care of my family. I played with the kids. Did lots of cooking and baking for loved ones. Visited with family and friends.
I didn't write this week. No 1,000 words-a-day and it was strangely liberating. It actually gave me time to think about different scenarios that could lead to one crucial scene and I started writing again today.
The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson: First of all, the cover is simply stunning and perfect for this book. Then there is the premise...How far would you go to save someone you love? Finally, there is the read, which unlayered psychological, physical and philosophical questions that made me finish this book in one gulp. Go read this book and give all your loved ones hugs and kisses.
Hope you're all enjoying your weekend!
3 Comments on Five on a Friday: Sunday Edition, last added: 9/22/2008
Congratulations on knowing when to take that break. It is huge, isn't it, to just let something go for a few days--even something you love. Sometimes all the multi-tasking we do is too much. :)And, yes, TOTALLY agree with you about Jenna Fox. Whew.
I loved Adoration also! And I'm glad you took a break this week. I can see the liberation of it.Glad you're doing OK and looking at everything positive in life.
One of my critique buddies, Patty Palmer, likes to start her "New Year" in September, when the kids start school, and there is a fresh start to everything.
I really like this idea. Last September, I started up a 30 Day Challenge to to get back on track after a relaxing summer. I hoped to put a call out for the 30 Day Challenge this fall, but I need to focus on some family things. But, there's nothing like setting goals, and I figure, my Five on a Friday post would be a great place to post my goals. Nothing like keeping accountable!
This will be the Year of Eating Well. It's time to revamp my family's eating habits so we think of food as healthy and fun. Food is such an emotional topic over in my household because of my middle daughter's food allergies. It's been exhausting, juggling to find foods everyone in my family will eat while trying to help my kids feel "normal" in this food-centric world. I'm tired of all the "How come we can't eat blankety blank blank like other people?"
GOAL: Add the fun quotient to our daily palate. I've researched tons of recipes, and now that I finally have a stove, it's time to experiment and see what brings a smile to everyone's faces.
Becky Levine posted a Writing Thought from Rick Riordan. You know all those great chapter titles? If Rick Riordan can't think of a funny or crazy chapter title, he rewrites the ENTIRE chapter!
GOAL: Do not to fall so much in love with a chapter. Be willing to cut out and revise, but save in case it can be used in another life form. Remember, it's the little details that make the whole.
One of my critique buddies, P. J. Hoover, shared this great plot exercise, and our critique group has been working on it all week. Talk about being able to hone in and sharpen focus on what a manuscript needs (or maybe...done...just right!)--conflict, motivation, character strengths/weaknesses--all great stuff for revisions! I'll be the first person to say that I'm not a fan of writing exercises, but this one is a must do. It is really good.
GOAL: Work on this exercise for all manuscripts.
My children have grown so much over this summer, and I'm realizing that before I know it, they'll want to spend more time with their friends rather than family. I'm being a little selfish here, but I want to enjoy being with my children without life stuff getting in the way.
GOAL: Do at least one fun and spontaneous thing with family every week.
Enjoy your weekend!
8 Comments on Five on a Friday: It's Goal Setting Time!, last added: 9/7/2008
These sound like such great goals. I got off track last week - with the start of school. I need to set myself some writing goals for the weeks to come.
Beth,Yes. Titles are hard. For chapters and manuscripts. Hope your son is enjoying college!----Chris,Can't wait to see what your writing goals will be!
I'm with you on the goals! I'll figure mine out for the rest of the year this weekend and post them!Nothing like writing them down to make you focus on them!Now off to do something spontaneous.
I love your goals. The one about enjoying your children is probably the most rewarding. They grow quickly and even though everyone knows this, it can still come as huge shock when they no longer have time for you.I also agree that I'm not exactly a fan of writing exercises-feeling a little inadequate most of the time--but this one was good. Yeah for PJ!
Vivian-I totally flaked on this last year but I need to do this. Especially now that school has started.My goal is to finish my WIP. At least get a first draft done. I'm almost there. I just need to get to the finish line!Kim Baccellia
Vivian,Thanks for the link. I just got back from a conference, and I'm adding one more thing to REMEMBER in this revision--emotional depth. Not overdone, not too many words, but that layer of real, true feeling.Love your goals!
My family and I went on vacation in Cape Cod. There's nothing like the incredible views, salt air, and relaxation by the water.
We went into Boston on Thursday for my middle daughter's appointment with her allergist. She needed some dreaded bloodwork for her food allergies and immunology readings. When it was her turn in the lab, I let her sit on my lap while she had her blood drawn. My heart pounded when I felt her slump in my arms. There is nothing so freaking frightening as when the words, "CODE BLUE" are shouted out because of your child. We spent almost four hours in a triage room while the fine doctors monitored my daughter's heart and lungs. The good news is the emergency response over at the Boston Children's Hospital is beyond superb and most importantly, my daughter is fine--turns out she hyperventilated and fainted. She was admitted into the ER since she was shaking, so they wanted to check if she had a seizure...which she didn't. I think about 30 new grey hairs popped out since then...
Said daughter rode her bike and ran on the beach the next day because she had to prove to me she was okay. I sweated it out and kept my mouth shut.
Eldest daughter created a salad she dubbed her "famous salad." Baby spinach, strawberries and a sweet vinaigrette. She mentioned she'd like to add feta cheese on it next time. Delicious!
My critique group assigned a one sentence plot premise for our manuscripts. How can one sentence be such hard work? But, I've come up with a couple, that I've just submitted to my group. Cross fingers and toes!
Hope you all had a great Labor Day Weekend! Enjoy the week!
12 Comments on Five on a Friday: Labor Day Version, last added: 9/3/2008
Oh gosh, did she pass out from the blood jab? Scary.One of my kids had febrile seizures for a brief time when he was small. The first one was definitely the worst, although I never did get over watching him have them. Being a parent is like having to hand over your heart, isn't it?
Sheila,You said it perfectly...being a parent is like having to hand over your heart. And yes, my daughter hyperventilated and fainted. I just read my post and realized I omitted this, so I updated the info. What a twist of emotions! I'm glad your son grew out of the febrile seizures--that must have been difficult to watch.
Code Blue.No.My heart skipped a few beats when I read that..... Just so glad she was biking happily the next day.On a very different, non sequitor note — loving Book Thief so far. A real book!
You are such a wonderful mother. Your daughter--all your kids--are so lucky to have you in their lives. Congrats to you for letting her "prove" she was okay--what a kid!I've tried that spinach/strawberry combo and just haven't been able to get it work. I wonder if there's a trick about WHEN to mix it all together. Or maybe I just need your daughter's dressing recipe. :)
PJ does this every week. And I've often thought it's a nice way to celebrate the good things in the week on a consistent basis. Usually, I just visit Jules and Eisha and share stuff with them. But then I thought, wait...I can do both! So, here's my first Five on a Friday...posted on a Saturday. Drumroll please....
1. I fixed the deadbolt on my side door. As in, unscrewed the whole thing, pulled it apart, and tried to figure out why the bolt wouldn't move. I kept at it, even though I couldn't fit the pieces together again. At least not right away. I was so relieved when I finally got the lock to work and put it together without breaking anything.
2. We met our new neighbors and they are lovely. Youngest daughter is thrilled since she now has a new friend who gravitates towards mischief as often as she does.
3. The children are going back to school after the Labor Day weekend, and they can't wait. It took awhile to negotiate on school supplies, book bags, and first day of school outfits, but everyone is all set to go now. Dare I say it will be nice to have some writing time while the girls are in school?
4. Speaking of writing, progress on my manuscript coded PB is coming along. I had hoped to finish this by the end of this summer, but kids and summer entertainment duties got in the way. Though I got in plenty of plotting--thanks to my husband, who helped brainstorm a few great scenes which changed the direction and the ending of my manuscript. Man, it's good to get the guy point of view. I've found it interesting how this manuscript has changed since I started it in January--from first person to third, from pure historical fiction to something a bit more mystical. Curious? My new goal is to have this done by the end of September.
5. My children, particularly my middle one, are of the mindset that I must exercise everyday. So in their overwhelming need to slow down my middle aging process, I've decided to placate them. Plus, the kids like exercising with me. So we all benefit.
Note: By the way, I haven't forgotten about the Character Development posts. It's actually more work than I thought. I'll have the posts up after Labor Day, once the kids are in school, and I have time to organize my thoughts on this.
How was your week?
11 Comments on Five on a Friday (A Saturday Version), last added: 8/28/2008
Sara,Oh, not the whole door, that would give the neighbors an interesting show if I did that but couldn't get it back on the hinges, wouldn't it? I took apart the deadbolt lock, which was very cool to figure out how to do. And you're right, it would make for an interesting character action. Thanks!
Impressive on the lock! Those things are so way complicated!And I'm so excited PB is going well! I love that story :)OK, I need to start on the daily exercise also. Next week I'll start...
Sounds like you had a good week. It is good to have the kids ready to go back to school and all those important decisions made.My week was pretty good. 1. I survived being the new kid. It is interesting working on the same staff but being in a different department that is in a different location. I know it is where I am supposed to be. It is just different. I let the dean of students know
Suzanne! I love your new avatar! -----Ms. Mize,Wow, you must be in great shape! 20 miles! And best of luck this new school year!-----PJ,I'm glad you love PB. Can't wait to find out how your exercise routine is going!
I like the Friday Five--seems like a little less thinking than some of my posts! :)Congrats on PB--keep us posted on the progress. And yay for school starting & more writing time.
I love the guy perspective, too. I remember when I was having trouble with a scene--I needed a class of kids to start chaos on the spur of the moment, and the best I could come up with was a girl screaming mouse! (lame and cliche, I know). Talked to the husband. He said, "Why don't the boys just get in a fight?" And that problem was solved :)
Love hearing what you've been up to...can't wait to read more of PB. Don't you love how a novel can have a mind of it's own? Good luck with the redirection and back-to-school.
Your children are of the mindset that you must exercise everyday! That cracks me right up for some reason. I'm with you on the placating bit, though; always good to placate someone. You will feel good, if nothing else. I exercise because I'm becoming a big fat cow as I get older. Good for you on the lock business. I set up an electronic watering timer in my yard this year, with easy-snap-off
I do the Friday Five thing too on my live journal blog.Sounds like you had an interesting week, Vivian. School starts next Thursday for my son. He's excited and so am I.
Have an awesome time at DFWCon!
It was a blast, Angela! Now it's time to relax :)