So I know I said this would be up yesterday (Friday) but my parents went out for the night and I wanted to surprise them by getting the entire house cleaned, as well as buy and wrap their Christmas gifts. So... MISSION ACCOMPLISHED. (HI Mom and Dad!! *waves* Because I'm not sure if they will read this :)
Again, I will put a disclaimer on these posts. The three things, and by the end of the month the twelve things, I am grateful for are in absolutely no particular order. (And some may even sound silly!)
Item #1
My car, Jack. I was able to buy my first car, a Honda CR-V around this time last year. I knew that I wanted a larger vehicle with all wheel drive capability. (I live in WI, where it snows...a lot) So I was choosing between the CR-V or the Hyundai Santa Fe. Clearly the CR-V won.
Now what makes me thankful for this little car that could, is that my mom and I just traveled to and from North Carolina to visit family. And we took Jack. We only had one little issue, the TPMS light came on in the mountains in WV/V, but it really wasn't an issue. AND we got 31 miles to the gallon!
Love my little Jack!
Item #2
The giant beast that is the Interwebs, or Internet. I love that with a click of a mouse or type of a keyboard, I can keep in touch with family that lives across the country! I have family in MI, CA, WA, and NC, being able to post pictures, videos, tweets and instagrams as well as Face time is fantastic! And of course making new friends as well. I really feel like the communities are there for the exploring, and I am so grateful to have met, at least online if not in person, some great people!
Item #3
The last item is greatly related to my last posts regarding NaNoWriMo. I am so very grateful to be a part of my region! Every single day last month there was an event held for write ins! Everyone was so supportive, and the community has grown, and we saw so many new faces this year. I hope that I can continue on with supporting the local writers and that we continue to grow.
Saturday, December 6, 2014
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Where did you go? O.o
Hello everybody! My apologies for disappearing on you all like that, but I was busy writing 100k words during the month of November for NaNoWriMo.
*happily dances in chair*
Yes, I actually did it! I completed the challenge for my second NaNoWriMo with 100,122. I did not actually finish either of the two novels I worked on, but the fantasy novel is really close to having a first draft done. I do plan to finish the fantasy and start fixing it up because I have a beta reader that is chomping at the bit for it!
The romance might sit until Camp NaNo in April. I think I might just go back and fix it, as well as finish it then and leave it sit for now. But who knows? Maybe I'll pick it up again here and finish.
Moving Onwards.
Lately it feels like I've been seeing too much negativity. I've seen it on the news, in person, and on my social media feeds, specifically FaceBook.
I am so tired of seeing and hearing people complaining about the weather, sports teams, the economy, their family, jobs etc. You name it, I've probably heard someone complaining about it!
So instead of getting mad and wanting to punch people through my computer screen (it's okay, I love you too much little MacBooky to actually hit you), I've decided that every Friday through the end of the year, I will put up a blog post with three things that I am grateful for. I don't know how much good it will do, but maybe putting a little more positivity out there will help!
Because, really, most of us have SO much in our life to be grateful for!
So, for now that is it. I will see you all on Friday with my first three things I am grateful for! (Not necessarily ranked in any particular order of course)
*happily dances in chair*
Yes, I actually did it! I completed the challenge for my second NaNoWriMo with 100,122. I did not actually finish either of the two novels I worked on, but the fantasy novel is really close to having a first draft done. I do plan to finish the fantasy and start fixing it up because I have a beta reader that is chomping at the bit for it!
The romance might sit until Camp NaNo in April. I think I might just go back and fix it, as well as finish it then and leave it sit for now. But who knows? Maybe I'll pick it up again here and finish.
Moving Onwards.
Lately it feels like I've been seeing too much negativity. I've seen it on the news, in person, and on my social media feeds, specifically FaceBook.
I am so tired of seeing and hearing people complaining about the weather, sports teams, the economy, their family, jobs etc. You name it, I've probably heard someone complaining about it!
So instead of getting mad and wanting to punch people through my computer screen (it's okay, I love you too much little MacBooky to actually hit you), I've decided that every Friday through the end of the year, I will put up a blog post with three things that I am grateful for. I don't know how much good it will do, but maybe putting a little more positivity out there will help!
Because, really, most of us have SO much in our life to be grateful for!
So, for now that is it. I will see you all on Friday with my first three things I am grateful for! (Not necessarily ranked in any particular order of course)
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
NaNo Tips, Tricks, and my plans for this November!
It’s that time of year again. The time when the weather
turns colder, the leaves change color, and the whole world gets ready to
refresh itself. (At least in the Northern Hemisphere)
It’s almost time for NaNoWriMo!!
Once again National Novel Writing Month is right around the
corner, and many of my friends, myself included, are starting to feel the
crunch of time. That last hour panic has started reaching its icy fingertips
around our hearts. But do not lose hope!
So in the spirit of
NaNoWriMo, I have a few tips and tricks that I have found are helpful in
the last three challenges.
Tip One:
Do NOT let yourself feel overwhelmed. Take it ONE day, and
one sentence at a time. Concentrate on little goals instead of that deadline at
the end of the month.
Trick One:
Reward yourself for those Mini-Milestones. Set a goal of
writing for so long, say half hour, hour whatever. Or a Mini goal of writing
500 words then your reward. I like using cups of hot really good quality hot
chocolate for my rewards!
Tip Two:
Have an idea of where your story is going. You don’t
necessarily need an intricate outline, pages of character sketches, loads of
backstory, or detailed world building. Just a rough concept of where the
beginning, middle, and end of the story is, and maybe some major points that
should happen. This will help keep the
story moving forward even when you don’t feel like moving forward.
Trick Two:
Tell everyone that you are participating. Scream it from the
rooftops…well maybe not. But announce it on all your social media, at work, at
school. Tell friends and family that you will be busy writing a novel. You will
need both the cheerleaders and the accountability to keep going even when you
want to stop.
Tip Three:
Your muse will not show up if you don’t. Write. Every.
Single. Day. Even if it’s only a couple hundred words a day. The water does not
flow until the faucet is turned on.
Trick Three:
Limit social media. I mean it! I have a rule about being on
Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and yes, even Netflix. Same goes for TV shows. I
only get to watch those AFTER I’ve completed my word count for the day.
My plans for NaNo.
This time around I am planning on writing two books, for a
total of 100,000 words.
The first is a romance set in Doolin, Ireland, and focuses
around a woman, Aubree Harper. She heads off to Ireland at the suggestion of
her best friend and is swept up in the beauty of the land, and the warmness of
the people. Not to mention Declan O’Tyne.
The second is the first of the next trilogy in my Ryder
Chronicles. The first was the Incalescent Trilogy; this will be the Descendants
Trilogy. The events take place 25 years after the Incalescent Trilogy, and
focus on some of the children from the first as well as few new friends.
Several more cultures, people, and even more dangerous enemies.
Wish me luck! And happy writing to you all!!! J
Sunday, October 26, 2014
Something I've been working on...
Just a little snippet of something that I've had in my head, and have recently started working on.
I will preface this with a "no editing" done yet clause. So be nice!
I will preface this with a "no editing" done yet clause. So be nice!
The fog rolled clear throughout the
camp ahead of her and her men. And the silence that came with it helped to
conceal their weapons. She didn’t mind the fog though. While it did help to
conceal her, her men, and their cloth muffled weapons, the fog meant more to
her than anything any of her men could have imagined.
She could almost see the swirling
designs playing through the mist. Dragons, maidens, knights. All of them figured
from her imagination playing through the ever changing forms around them. The night
beckoned her home, made her feel safe.
Safe.
The word brought an unuttered laugh
to her lips.
Safe was one thing Talon Mercini
Falk had rarely felt.
The sabre that hung at her waist
was all the safety she could afford. Even Kaiji, the wild mountain cat she had
saved as a cub and raised herself, had been left behind for this hunt. Another
smile brushed across her full lips in the darkness. They had almost had to
chain the giant cat this time. Two fully roasted oxen had managed to preoccupy
him long enough for her and her small raiding party to move before he noticed.
A strand of her raven black hair
was sticking to her neck. The edge of the glades was not their territory.
Usually they gave this land a wide berth, but the mention, the very rumor of treasure
had her mens tongues waggling. And she didn’t want to ruin their fun.
The glades were a dangerous place.
She shifted her weight from the ball of her left foot to the right, ready to
move as soon as her scouts gave the signal.
The camp they were raiding was one that looked run down, but she was
still sure there was not only plenty of loot, but weapons. And if there were
any decent swordsmen in the camp, she licked her lips, she wanted to meet them
and find out how decent they were.
A shrill cry from a mourning dove
echoed through the grasses to her right. It was the signal. Gently she loosened
her sabre from its sheath, thankful that she still had knives hidden on her
person should she need them.
She moved in a half crouch right
between two of the bigger men of her party. They had insisted. Despite most of
her group being made up of brigands and former thieves, they still demanded her
to be “protected”.
Her lip curled up as they neared
the sentry of the enemy camp before them. Faster than either of the two men
next to her, she had a blade in her hand, and was carefully lowering the dead
man to the rushes. She wiped the mans blood across his shirt before placing the
small knife back in its hiding spot.
Like she needed protection.
Slowly they made their way through
the camp. She watched as some of her men entered this or that tent. Not a
scream escaped into the night.
That was one of her rules.
There were to be no battle cries, no
screams. The deaths were to be fast and as painless as possible. And no women
were to be raped. She wouldn’t stand for that.
In exchange her men received
ninety-five percent of the takings to be shared amongst the raiders. She never
lacked for volunteers.
Soon her two “body guards” had
slipped off to examine the contents of a tent, leaving her by alone. She
breathed a sigh of relief. It was never a good idea to inhale too deeply around
her men. Some of them bathed but once a twin moon.
Carefully testing the ground with
her feet she crept along to the last tent that stood near the center of the
camp. From the sticky texture of the ground, and the large, single pole erected in the middle, she had to guess that someone had
been flogged not too long ago. She had seen floggings. Nasty events, but they
often served the correct purpose.
Her sabre was in her hand, a comfortable
weight. Something that she knew would not fail her.
She stepped into the darklit tent
and waited for her eyes to further adjust to the moonless interior. The smell
of blood, sharp and metallic assaulted her nose as did the smell of human rot
and waste.
Whatever had happened here had
happened a few days ago, and no one had bothered to clean it up.
Soundlessly she slid her sabre home
at her side and was about to leave when a moan coming from the other side
stopped her. Her whole body stopped moving, even her breath stopped. Instantly
she regretted sheathing her weapon. Yes she had others, but the sabre had a
farther reach than any of her knives. Though none of them would do much good in
the dark.
She made another step to move when
she heard the groan again. This time it sounded like there was a word trying to
escape the lips of the dying man. She poked her head out of the tent to find
most of her men standing near a pile of what appeared to be loot with
torches lit around. Catching the eye of her two “body guards” she gestured them
over.
Thankfully they brought a torch
with them, and she took it wordlessly instructing them to stand out side of the
tent. They nodded and she closed her eyes before ducking back into the tent.
Carefully she cracked one eye open and then the other to avoid night blindness,
and allow her eyes to adjust.
She moved carefully around the
center pole to the darker side, and furthest side, from the tent opening. The
smell of rotten flesh assailed her nose once again, and within the ring of
torchlight she saw what it was from.
The mans back was a criss-cross
pattern of open lash marks. Some looked a few days old, and others looked like
they had just happened. She hung her head. Most good floggers let their victims
heal before the second round, made the event much more interesting for the
audience that always gathered.
But this, this was something else
entirely.
This was brutality for brutalities
sake.
A groan escaped the mans lips
again. This time she thought she heard the word more clearly.
“Cass-”
She knew that she should give him a
quicker death. She looked his back up and down once more. Hellfire, he was
already knocking on deaths door. It really would be merciful to kill him now.
End the suffering. Lifting the torch into a rung to hold the light, she moved
silently to his side, the little black knife leaping into her fingers.
She knelt
before carefully turning him towards her. She dared not lay him on his back,
the pain would probably send him into shock, or wake him. But she tilted his
shoulders far enough towards her to see the golden stubble across his cheeks
and the ugly purple bruise across his left eye.
“What did you ever do to them?”
She spoke without thinking, and
regretted it immediately as he seemed to rouse under her hand. But thankfully
the eye nearest her was swollen shut.
“Cassandra?” His voice came out
paper thin and raspy. But there was something underneath, something that
sounded hopeful.
Well, she thought, why shouldn’t
it? He just asked for the goddess of healing herself. She slowly placed the
knife back in its holder on her corset. Rising to her feet swiftly, she laid a hand on
his brow. He was burning up.
She crossed to the tent opening.
The two men still standing outside nearly fell over when she appeared
soundlessly between them.
“Get my horse.” Neither one moved.
“Now, or the other will be burning with the rest of the bodies.”
Suddenly they both moved, and the
men standing nearest the pile of loot stopped to watch before commencing
loading the spoils onto their horses and ponies. She rolled her eyes, thankful
that she was hidden in shadow. She slipped back inside and taking off her cloak
moved once again to the mans side.
Slipping out her wineskin, she held
the man down with one hand while pouring a small amount over his back. Not the
best that she could do, but it was all she had until she could get him back to
her camp. The man stiffened under her hand and wheezed out another “Cassandra”
before collapsing back onto the rough cot.
Carefully she got her cloak around
his fragile back to protect it, and keep some of the wine against his ragged
flesh.
“Captain?” She rolled her shoulders
and placing her hands under the mans slightly less damaged shoulders and his
knees, she lifted. If he hadn’t been a captive, starved, and then lashed to
within a hand of his life, she would never have been able to lift him.
But she gritted her teeth and
lifted, taking it a step at a time she made her way to the tent opening.
“Open it.” A giant arm appeared and
the flap lifted quickly. Giving her all the room to move through without
banging the poor mans head against the poles. She turned to the first man.
“Hold him while I get on. Then hand
him to me.”
Her horse stood as still as stone
while the large man handed the unconscious body to her. She could see the
questions in their eyes as the sun had started to rise.
“I am heading back to camp. Round
up the others and be back before full dawn.” The man was hardly sitting
upright, but she fastened her belt around his middle to hers. She barely had to
put her heels to her destreirs sides, and he moved fast despite carrying two
people.
They had put some distance between
the raiding party before she slowed her mount to a gentle canter. The man
strapped to her suddenly sagged against her.
“I don’t know who you are, or what you did to piss off Ziurk, but I’m going to find out.”
Sunday, October 19, 2014
No significant other? No problem!
So my year of not dating is almost to a close. The self imposed "ban" ends on December 1st, and I have to say that this year has been one of my best!
The reactions I have received vary from person to person, but most often the best reactions are when friends or acquaintances of my parents find out about my decision, or people who are older and have been married for some time.
"You're smart, of course you could find someone!"
"You're too beautiful to stay single!"
"There's plenty of guys, just put yourself out there!"
I only smile politely and change the topic.
You see, I didn't place this ban on dating because I couldn't "find" a guy. I placed this ban because I was sick and tired of "finding" men that were basically babies in adult form. Men who did not want the same things I want. Men who do not hold the same beliefs as me (or at least similar). Men who didn't want to grow up and get a good job.
And while dating is fun, I don't "date" to have "fun". I typically know within two weeks to a month if I can be with someone long term. I simply don't see the point in being with someone who is a drain on me mentally and physically, just to say I have a boyfriend.
So without further ado, my top 5 reasons I love being single!
Reason 1:
No extra money being bled out of my wallet for gas, movies, dinner, cards, gifts, dates etc.
When I get paid, I simply pay my bills, and save a little. If I decide to go out, it's only one person. I've actually been able to pay of debt that I got into when I was in college!
Reason 2:
I can watch any damn thing on TV/Netflix I want, and no one is there to judge!
All day crocheting marathon of: Gilmore Girls, Supernatural, Bones, Castle, Grimm, Dracula, Hell On Wheels (etc)....No Problem!
Reason 3:
My gym habits do not get in the way of a relationship. I've recently (for the last 5 weeks) been refocusing on my health and being fitter. Which means, I have been following the Weight Watchers plan, and going to the gym four to five times a week. This past Friday I was too jazzed up to sleep, so at 9PM I went and lifted some weights. This would have probably been frowned upon by a significant other. But I loved it!
Reason 4:
Speaking of getting in shape, and food. I don't have someone sabotaging my efforts! Usually when dating you go and get rich food like Chinese, Mexican, Italian, etc, at some restaurant. Being single, I cook at home, thus controlling better the ingredients included in my food. (Homemade, healthy, Mac n Cheese anyone? :)
Reason 5:
I'm happy! The only person I have to worry about is me. Well, and Roy of course! But if I decided tomorrow to move back to Washington State to go to school, or get a different job, I don't have to run it past anyone. I am twenty-four years old, now would be the time in my life to make any large(er) changes. I am not responsible for another person's happiness and well-being. And for now that is just fine with me!
DISCLAIMER:
While some of these reasons seem to be "shallow", I truly believe that many people stay in a dysfunctional, not healthy, relationship just to "have someone". I don't believe this is how we should live. People must learn about themselves before they can be in a healthy, loving relationship.
The reactions I have received vary from person to person, but most often the best reactions are when friends or acquaintances of my parents find out about my decision, or people who are older and have been married for some time.
"You're smart, of course you could find someone!"
"You're too beautiful to stay single!"
"There's plenty of guys, just put yourself out there!"
I only smile politely and change the topic.
You see, I didn't place this ban on dating because I couldn't "find" a guy. I placed this ban because I was sick and tired of "finding" men that were basically babies in adult form. Men who did not want the same things I want. Men who do not hold the same beliefs as me (or at least similar). Men who didn't want to grow up and get a good job.
And while dating is fun, I don't "date" to have "fun". I typically know within two weeks to a month if I can be with someone long term. I simply don't see the point in being with someone who is a drain on me mentally and physically, just to say I have a boyfriend.
So without further ado, my top 5 reasons I love being single!
Reason 1:
No extra money being bled out of my wallet for gas, movies, dinner, cards, gifts, dates etc.
When I get paid, I simply pay my bills, and save a little. If I decide to go out, it's only one person. I've actually been able to pay of debt that I got into when I was in college!
Reason 2:
I can watch any damn thing on TV/Netflix I want, and no one is there to judge!
All day crocheting marathon of: Gilmore Girls, Supernatural, Bones, Castle, Grimm, Dracula, Hell On Wheels (etc)....No Problem!
Reason 3:
My gym habits do not get in the way of a relationship. I've recently (for the last 5 weeks) been refocusing on my health and being fitter. Which means, I have been following the Weight Watchers plan, and going to the gym four to five times a week. This past Friday I was too jazzed up to sleep, so at 9PM I went and lifted some weights. This would have probably been frowned upon by a significant other. But I loved it!
Reason 4:
Speaking of getting in shape, and food. I don't have someone sabotaging my efforts! Usually when dating you go and get rich food like Chinese, Mexican, Italian, etc, at some restaurant. Being single, I cook at home, thus controlling better the ingredients included in my food. (Homemade, healthy, Mac n Cheese anyone? :)
Reason 5:
I'm happy! The only person I have to worry about is me. Well, and Roy of course! But if I decided tomorrow to move back to Washington State to go to school, or get a different job, I don't have to run it past anyone. I am twenty-four years old, now would be the time in my life to make any large(er) changes. I am not responsible for another person's happiness and well-being. And for now that is just fine with me!
DISCLAIMER:
While some of these reasons seem to be "shallow", I truly believe that many people stay in a dysfunctional, not healthy, relationship just to "have someone". I don't believe this is how we should live. People must learn about themselves before they can be in a healthy, loving relationship.
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
30 Facts About Me
So I'm being a bit of a stealer...I saw my friend Tash do a 30 Facts post and thought it was a good idea.
Link to her Blog post/blog page: http://www.tash-b-gosh.blogspot.com/
Check her out!! She is amazing :)
1.) I have lived in WI the majority of my life, but I still don't feel like a "midwesterner"
2.) I followed my dream, and studied Creative Writing and Celtic studies in college.
3.) I used to have a horse, but a few months back made the hard decision to donate her to a kids camp. Now I only have my Chinchilla named Roy.
4.) Roy actually picked me out at the pet shop. He was only 6 moths old when I brought him home on September 25th, 2009.
5.) Though people think I'm outgoing, or a "people person" I am actually more of an introvert, and somewhat shy.
6.) But on the flip, I am totally honest and what I consider an "open book" personality.
7.) I am an avid reader.
8.) My mom taught me to read, and home school-ed me for Pre-K/ Kindergarten and I think part of 1st grade.
9.) My father was in the Navy and stationed in Washington state when I was born. So I spent the first 7 or so years of my life surrounded by large evergreens, beautiful mountains, and the spectacular pacific ocean.
10.) The first "job" I wanted as a child was that of a Orca trainer. (Like at Sea-World). Orcas and Sea Otters are still two of my favorite animals.
11.) I was able to purchase my first car, a 2011 CR-V, without a co-signer and for the monthly payment I wanted as a 23 year old. Go me! (And good credit :)
12.) The vehicle that I drove until then was a '97 Ford F-150, that I still love to pieces. Someday I want to own a truck again.
13.) Speaking of which, I can pull, back up, and attach a trailer all by myself. (Impressed yet?)
14.) I have 9 piercings on my ears. And I kinda want more...but I'm running out of room. Haha
15.) Recently I have recommitted my self to being healthier which includes practicing Yoga (which I love), trying to get to the gym a few times a week, and not eating fast food.
16.) I watch and love Disney films. I don't care how old you are, Disney never goes out of style.
17.) My favorite Disney movies are: Beauty and the Beast, Pocahontas, Mulan, Tangled, Brave, and How to Train Your Dragon 1 and 2.
18.) Most of my life I have considered myself a "tomboy", even now to a certain extent. I never went through the "typical" girly phase of trying clothes and tons of makeup. But lately I've gotten interested in dressing well, and doing my make-up almost everyday.
19.) At least one day a week I wear no make-up and do not use any hair products or a blow dryer. (Something I picked up working as a Beauty Advisor)
20.) While my hair naturally turns red in the sun, I love it so much that I add red to my hair all year.
21.) And yes, my eyes really are naturally green. I am the 2% of the population, go me!
22.) I consider myself a very logical person.
23.) While my grandmother used to crochet, she had stopped by the time I came along. So I have taught myself to crochet. I've done dozens of scarves, one giant afghan, a pair of slippers, a tea cup cozy, a shawl/wrap, and am working on several other projects including a new afghan.
24.) I have officially finished my first trilogy. Which also happens to be part of a 9 to 12 book series.
25.) If I never come up with another idea for books, I could write 23 more books.
26.) And ideas never come to me in the shower. (That's just silly! They happen when I drive lol )
27.) I am pretty low maintenance. If I could live in jeans and a t-shirt I would be happy.
28.) My family used to camp 3 to 4 times a year. I miss it! We tent camped, no TV, RV or camper for us!
29.) I fell in LOVE with Scotland and the Lake District in England. If I could pack up right now, and have a job waiting for me, I would leave in a heartbeat. Something about the land and the people really captured my imagination.
30.) My dream is to live off of my writing so that I never have to get up before 5 am. I have stories and characters I want to share with others, and think that they will enjoy them as much as I have :)
So that's it. 30 Facts about Me, fun stuff right? Most of it's pretty random...but OH well!
Link to her Blog post/blog page: http://www.tash-b-gosh.blogspot.com/
Check her out!! She is amazing :)
1.) I have lived in WI the majority of my life, but I still don't feel like a "midwesterner"
2.) I followed my dream, and studied Creative Writing and Celtic studies in college.
3.) I used to have a horse, but a few months back made the hard decision to donate her to a kids camp. Now I only have my Chinchilla named Roy.
4.) Roy actually picked me out at the pet shop. He was only 6 moths old when I brought him home on September 25th, 2009.
5.) Though people think I'm outgoing, or a "people person" I am actually more of an introvert, and somewhat shy.
6.) But on the flip, I am totally honest and what I consider an "open book" personality.
7.) I am an avid reader.
8.) My mom taught me to read, and home school-ed me for Pre-K/ Kindergarten and I think part of 1st grade.
9.) My father was in the Navy and stationed in Washington state when I was born. So I spent the first 7 or so years of my life surrounded by large evergreens, beautiful mountains, and the spectacular pacific ocean.
10.) The first "job" I wanted as a child was that of a Orca trainer. (Like at Sea-World). Orcas and Sea Otters are still two of my favorite animals.
11.) I was able to purchase my first car, a 2011 CR-V, without a co-signer and for the monthly payment I wanted as a 23 year old. Go me! (And good credit :)
12.) The vehicle that I drove until then was a '97 Ford F-150, that I still love to pieces. Someday I want to own a truck again.
13.) Speaking of which, I can pull, back up, and attach a trailer all by myself. (Impressed yet?)
14.) I have 9 piercings on my ears. And I kinda want more...but I'm running out of room. Haha
15.) Recently I have recommitted my self to being healthier which includes practicing Yoga (which I love), trying to get to the gym a few times a week, and not eating fast food.
16.) I watch and love Disney films. I don't care how old you are, Disney never goes out of style.
17.) My favorite Disney movies are: Beauty and the Beast, Pocahontas, Mulan, Tangled, Brave, and How to Train Your Dragon 1 and 2.
18.) Most of my life I have considered myself a "tomboy", even now to a certain extent. I never went through the "typical" girly phase of trying clothes and tons of makeup. But lately I've gotten interested in dressing well, and doing my make-up almost everyday.
19.) At least one day a week I wear no make-up and do not use any hair products or a blow dryer. (Something I picked up working as a Beauty Advisor)
20.) While my hair naturally turns red in the sun, I love it so much that I add red to my hair all year.
21.) And yes, my eyes really are naturally green. I am the 2% of the population, go me!
22.) I consider myself a very logical person.
23.) While my grandmother used to crochet, she had stopped by the time I came along. So I have taught myself to crochet. I've done dozens of scarves, one giant afghan, a pair of slippers, a tea cup cozy, a shawl/wrap, and am working on several other projects including a new afghan.
24.) I have officially finished my first trilogy. Which also happens to be part of a 9 to 12 book series.
25.) If I never come up with another idea for books, I could write 23 more books.
26.) And ideas never come to me in the shower. (That's just silly! They happen when I drive lol )
27.) I am pretty low maintenance. If I could live in jeans and a t-shirt I would be happy.
28.) My family used to camp 3 to 4 times a year. I miss it! We tent camped, no TV, RV or camper for us!
29.) I fell in LOVE with Scotland and the Lake District in England. If I could pack up right now, and have a job waiting for me, I would leave in a heartbeat. Something about the land and the people really captured my imagination.
30.) My dream is to live off of my writing so that I never have to get up before 5 am. I have stories and characters I want to share with others, and think that they will enjoy them as much as I have :)
So that's it. 30 Facts about Me, fun stuff right? Most of it's pretty random...but OH well!
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Nightmares
Nightmares, almost everyone has had them at some point or another.
Some are more silly, like anxiety inducing dreams that include being naked or somehow dis-clothed in front of a group of people. Or perhaps darker, of some unknown figure stalking you in the night. Maybe even things that "go bump in the night."
My nightmare are different.
My nightmares usually start off like any other dream, but they morph over the length of the dream.
My nightmares are not about me being pursued, or me getting hurt; they're about the people that I love getting hurt and I am powerless to help them. The ones that really get me are when I can't stop something, or someone, from hurting someone I care deep down in my soul for. That sort of terror worms its way up and grips my heart with icy fingers.
I am not sure if that reveals a character trait of the negative or positive. I only know that it's the way that I am, and I really can't change how much I care about others, because I would then lose much of my personality.
And yes, I wrote this at 4:30 AM because I woke myself out of a nightmare from crying in real life.
Just a fantastic start to my Tuesday!
Some are more silly, like anxiety inducing dreams that include being naked or somehow dis-clothed in front of a group of people. Or perhaps darker, of some unknown figure stalking you in the night. Maybe even things that "go bump in the night."
My nightmare are different.
My nightmares usually start off like any other dream, but they morph over the length of the dream.
My nightmares are not about me being pursued, or me getting hurt; they're about the people that I love getting hurt and I am powerless to help them. The ones that really get me are when I can't stop something, or someone, from hurting someone I care deep down in my soul for. That sort of terror worms its way up and grips my heart with icy fingers.
I am not sure if that reveals a character trait of the negative or positive. I only know that it's the way that I am, and I really can't change how much I care about others, because I would then lose much of my personality.
And yes, I wrote this at 4:30 AM because I woke myself out of a nightmare from crying in real life.
Just a fantastic start to my Tuesday!
Monday, July 21, 2014
A Dreamer
So I know that this going up late for Motivational Monday...But oh well, it took me longer to find what I wanted to write about. So I was procrastinating, and on Pinterest....And I found:
"A single dream is more powerful than a thousand realities."
~J.R.R. Tolkien.
I was once accused of being a "dreamer" and that I "needed to pull my head out of the clouds".
I took it to heart, and for awhile I let it change who I was and what I did. Then I realized something.
Dreamers are the ones who come up with brilliant ideas, like logic, math, philosophy, great literature and so on. They are the ones who sat, and with heads in the clouds, made our lives better.
It was the dreamers who thought about being independent from other countries, to build better lives for others.
Dreamers and Doers are not opposites, but rather two sides of the same coin. Dreamers need Doers, or to have a tad of Doer in themselves to accomplish what they dream about. The opposite is true for the Doers, they need a Dream or a Dreamer to believe in to work towards.
Our world needs both. Ying and Yang. (Though I don't think they are truly opposites)
A dream of writing books has led me to where I am now. Studying Creative Writing in college, and finishing the first draft of a trilogy as well as planning out many more books. The dream of seeing my books in print will hold me through the grueling process of countless rounds of editing, querying agents and publishers, and getting critiques (both positive and negative) from readers. While the Doer in me will keep me striving towards that dream.
So I feel proud to count myself among the Dreamers, with a little bit of Doer in me as well.
"A single dream is more powerful than a thousand realities."
~J.R.R. Tolkien.
I was once accused of being a "dreamer" and that I "needed to pull my head out of the clouds".
I took it to heart, and for awhile I let it change who I was and what I did. Then I realized something.
Dreamers are the ones who come up with brilliant ideas, like logic, math, philosophy, great literature and so on. They are the ones who sat, and with heads in the clouds, made our lives better.
It was the dreamers who thought about being independent from other countries, to build better lives for others.
Dreamers and Doers are not opposites, but rather two sides of the same coin. Dreamers need Doers, or to have a tad of Doer in themselves to accomplish what they dream about. The opposite is true for the Doers, they need a Dream or a Dreamer to believe in to work towards.
Our world needs both. Ying and Yang. (Though I don't think they are truly opposites)
A dream of writing books has led me to where I am now. Studying Creative Writing in college, and finishing the first draft of a trilogy as well as planning out many more books. The dream of seeing my books in print will hold me through the grueling process of countless rounds of editing, querying agents and publishers, and getting critiques (both positive and negative) from readers. While the Doer in me will keep me striving towards that dream.
So I feel proud to count myself among the Dreamers, with a little bit of Doer in me as well.
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Finished!
As of this morning, (7/20/2014), I have finished the first draft of the last installment in my first trilogy!
I can't believe I've actually finished it. I first had this story idea when I was 15/16 in high school, and some of the characters journeys are at an end. In about a year I have written all three, revised the first 3 times, and the second once. I never in my wildest dreams thought that I could do something like this. I'm feel both at peace and nervous; kind of a surreal moment.
The only thing left to do is to polish them and start querying agents!
And of course if no one bites, then I will start looking into self publishing! :)
In the meantime, I am planning out the next 3 to 4 books in the series, and will be writing a romance set in Ireland for NaNoWriMo in November this year-- a very far deviation from my fantasy genre roots!
So onward and upward dragon friends! Keep those keys typing and your pens scratching!
I can't believe I've actually finished it. I first had this story idea when I was 15/16 in high school, and some of the characters journeys are at an end. In about a year I have written all three, revised the first 3 times, and the second once. I never in my wildest dreams thought that I could do something like this. I'm feel both at peace and nervous; kind of a surreal moment.
The only thing left to do is to polish them and start querying agents!
And of course if no one bites, then I will start looking into self publishing! :)
In the meantime, I am planning out the next 3 to 4 books in the series, and will be writing a romance set in Ireland for NaNoWriMo in November this year-- a very far deviation from my fantasy genre roots!
So onward and upward dragon friends! Keep those keys typing and your pens scratching!
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Motivational...Sunday?
So I know last week I mentioned writing something about motivation every Monday. BUT something happened this past Friday that I just needed to share. And it is pretty motivational.
I was at work on Friday, and my dad texted me asking for a ride home from the car rental place. (He travels for work and the car rental place is literally 10 minutes from my work.) I go down and pick him up, and I ask him, like I always do when he travels, if he had read more in my revised first novel.
And before you guys think "he's my dad" and "wouldn't give me an honest opinion", my dad is HARSH but fair when it comes to my work. He goes line by line, reading each line twice. Once for grammatical errors and the second time for content. When I get my manuscripts back they usually have red marks all over the pages. But I digress.
He said yes, that he was pleased with the added and revised scenes so far, and that the overall tone was much improved. I was excited, and we moved on to other topics. I think I got on the topic of anxiety and worrying over something and he casually says, "Don't worry about it Little One."
It was very glib and I only said, "I'm not that little".
He whipped his head around and waited for me to get it.....
MY FATHER USED A REFERENCE FROM MY BOOK ON ME!
I was so stunned! It was a cool, surreal moment to know that someone read the books, remembered a detail, and then used it correctly in a real life situation.
I literally had a fanish girl moment...except I was the one who created the entire books.
If that's not motivation to keep going I don't know what is!
I recommend finding someone in your life that appreciates your work, who supports you, and who wants you to succeed. And if you manage to find more than one person, like I was lucky to, hoard them! Hoard them like a squirrel stashing nuts for winter!
Because those critics, naysayers, and even your inner editor can be as harsh as a mid-western polar vortex wind. And those people will keep you safe, sane, warm, and motivated to continue your project.
Until next time, keep up that Creative Life!
I was at work on Friday, and my dad texted me asking for a ride home from the car rental place. (He travels for work and the car rental place is literally 10 minutes from my work.) I go down and pick him up, and I ask him, like I always do when he travels, if he had read more in my revised first novel.
And before you guys think "he's my dad" and "wouldn't give me an honest opinion", my dad is HARSH but fair when it comes to my work. He goes line by line, reading each line twice. Once for grammatical errors and the second time for content. When I get my manuscripts back they usually have red marks all over the pages. But I digress.
He said yes, that he was pleased with the added and revised scenes so far, and that the overall tone was much improved. I was excited, and we moved on to other topics. I think I got on the topic of anxiety and worrying over something and he casually says, "Don't worry about it Little One."
It was very glib and I only said, "I'm not that little".
He whipped his head around and waited for me to get it.....
MY FATHER USED A REFERENCE FROM MY BOOK ON ME!
I was so stunned! It was a cool, surreal moment to know that someone read the books, remembered a detail, and then used it correctly in a real life situation.
I literally had a fanish girl moment...except I was the one who created the entire books.
If that's not motivation to keep going I don't know what is!
I recommend finding someone in your life that appreciates your work, who supports you, and who wants you to succeed. And if you manage to find more than one person, like I was lucky to, hoard them! Hoard them like a squirrel stashing nuts for winter!
Because those critics, naysayers, and even your inner editor can be as harsh as a mid-western polar vortex wind. And those people will keep you safe, sane, warm, and motivated to continue your project.
Until next time, keep up that Creative Life!
Monday, July 7, 2014
Motivation Monday...
Hello Everybody!
(And yes I did say that like Gru from Despicable Me 1 and 2)
So today is Monday, and as such I have decided for the next month, at least, I would post something about staying motivated to live your creative life!
The quote for the day comes from Joss Whedon:
I write to give myself strength.
I write to to be the characters I am not.
I write to explore all of the things I'm afraid of.
Whoa, whoa, whoa there.
Hang on...JOSS WHEDON said/wrote that?
Awesome!
Never the less, this is an important concept that both creative people and non creative types need to understand. Not always do we "write what we know". Case in point: I have never actually seen, spoken to, or ridden a dragon...yet! But through my writing I am able to imagine what it might be like.
To create something from nothing, to explore these different personalities and situations that I would otherwise never be in, that is why I write.
And that is something powerful that all creative-types should embrace.
(And yes I did say that like Gru from Despicable Me 1 and 2)
So today is Monday, and as such I have decided for the next month, at least, I would post something about staying motivated to live your creative life!
The quote for the day comes from Joss Whedon:
I write to give myself strength.
I write to to be the characters I am not.
I write to explore all of the things I'm afraid of.
Whoa, whoa, whoa there.
Hang on...JOSS WHEDON said/wrote that?
Awesome!
Never the less, this is an important concept that both creative people and non creative types need to understand. Not always do we "write what we know". Case in point: I have never actually seen, spoken to, or ridden a dragon...yet! But through my writing I am able to imagine what it might be like.
To create something from nothing, to explore these different personalities and situations that I would otherwise never be in, that is why I write.
And that is something powerful that all creative-types should embrace.
Friday, July 4, 2014
July Camp
Hello everyone!
Today is July 4th, so for Americans it is a Holiday! Go Freedom! Fireworks, Hotdogs, Brats (midwest thing), Hamburgers and Salads galore!
At least that's what it means for most people. For me it means that it is Day 4 of Camp NaNoWriMo!
I participated in Camp back in April, and I decided to participate in the July session as well.
Though I must admit that this Camp I have not been as motivated as I have been in the past.
The seeming problem?
My mind keeps wanting to work on the next three to four books in the series instead of finishing this trilogy. I mean, at least I am working on the same series and not bouncing between projects, but still. It's very distracting.
I think the problem is that in my head this trilogy is completed. It just needs to actually be finished on paper for my readers. (And yes, my beta readers are somewhat impatiently waiting for the conclusion)
I know that I just need to buckle down and work on it, but everything is just SO suddenly distracting.
...I think I need to buckle down on my time spent on the internet/netflix/youtube and work on getting back into a writing schedule.
Thankfully this weekend there is a write in taking place with the region I am a part of. There will be plenty of other people there participating in Camp, and it will be 3 hours of dedicated writing time.
No excuses this weekend!
Today is July 4th, so for Americans it is a Holiday! Go Freedom! Fireworks, Hotdogs, Brats (midwest thing), Hamburgers and Salads galore!
At least that's what it means for most people. For me it means that it is Day 4 of Camp NaNoWriMo!
I participated in Camp back in April, and I decided to participate in the July session as well.
Though I must admit that this Camp I have not been as motivated as I have been in the past.
The seeming problem?
My mind keeps wanting to work on the next three to four books in the series instead of finishing this trilogy. I mean, at least I am working on the same series and not bouncing between projects, but still. It's very distracting.
I think the problem is that in my head this trilogy is completed. It just needs to actually be finished on paper for my readers. (And yes, my beta readers are somewhat impatiently waiting for the conclusion)
I know that I just need to buckle down and work on it, but everything is just SO suddenly distracting.
...I think I need to buckle down on my time spent on the internet/netflix/youtube and work on getting back into a writing schedule.
Thankfully this weekend there is a write in taking place with the region I am a part of. There will be plenty of other people there participating in Camp, and it will be 3 hours of dedicated writing time.
No excuses this weekend!
Thursday, June 26, 2014
So a funny story...
Yesterday while I was at lunch I decided to take my notebook and jot down some thoughts that I've been having for the next 3-4 books in my Ryder Chronicles. No big deal, I do it often enough.
Well, yesterday the quality manager happened to be in the lunch room and he saw me furiously scribbling down notes instead of eating.
This is how the conversation went:
"Noveling?"
"Kinda, just jotting some ideas down for a story before I forget them."
"Seems like a lot of work. What's it for?"
"The next 3 to 4 books in my series. I'm finishing up the third in July and one of my beta readers has a new version of the first book."
"Wow, you seem pretty serious about it."
"Yeah, it's what I love. I just can't seem to find enough hours in the day to do everything I want."
*Somewhat blank stare*
"I mean, I want to read, write, crochet, watch TV/Movies, hang out with friends, and go to the gym." * I gestured around us* "And of course work."
He laughed. "Sounds like you need to find a wealthy husband who will bring home the money."
I laughed, "If you know someone, let me know."
We laughed some more and then he had to get back to work.
And it got me thinking.
At first I laughed off the remark about needing a husband who makes money, then I realized that it wouldn't be so bad, but my final thoughts were and still are:
I like being independent. I like being able to take care of myself and my living expenses. Yes, I do wish that I could fast forward a few years and be happily married or dating someone who loves me and wants to have a future with me. Yes, I would love to be a stay at home mom raising kids and taking care of a house.
But right now, I finally feel like my life is where it's supposed to be. I am happy, for the most part healthy, and I am working on my novels which is something I am passionate about. And I know in my heart, that I will be published. Whether that means taking the traditional route, or self publishing.
So thinking back, I still laugh at the conversation. But I know that my life, right now, is how it's supposed to be. And I am content with that.
Well, yesterday the quality manager happened to be in the lunch room and he saw me furiously scribbling down notes instead of eating.
This is how the conversation went:
"Noveling?"
"Kinda, just jotting some ideas down for a story before I forget them."
"Seems like a lot of work. What's it for?"
"The next 3 to 4 books in my series. I'm finishing up the third in July and one of my beta readers has a new version of the first book."
"Wow, you seem pretty serious about it."
"Yeah, it's what I love. I just can't seem to find enough hours in the day to do everything I want."
*Somewhat blank stare*
"I mean, I want to read, write, crochet, watch TV/Movies, hang out with friends, and go to the gym." * I gestured around us* "And of course work."
He laughed. "Sounds like you need to find a wealthy husband who will bring home the money."
I laughed, "If you know someone, let me know."
We laughed some more and then he had to get back to work.
And it got me thinking.
At first I laughed off the remark about needing a husband who makes money, then I realized that it wouldn't be so bad, but my final thoughts were and still are:
I like being independent. I like being able to take care of myself and my living expenses. Yes, I do wish that I could fast forward a few years and be happily married or dating someone who loves me and wants to have a future with me. Yes, I would love to be a stay at home mom raising kids and taking care of a house.
But right now, I finally feel like my life is where it's supposed to be. I am happy, for the most part healthy, and I am working on my novels which is something I am passionate about. And I know in my heart, that I will be published. Whether that means taking the traditional route, or self publishing.
So thinking back, I still laugh at the conversation. But I know that my life, right now, is how it's supposed to be. And I am content with that.
Saturday, June 21, 2014
"Lies" by Oliver Dahl-Review
“Lies” is by now 16 year old, self-published author, Oliver
Dahl. Twitter brought me into contact with him. In one tweet he was looking for
bloggers to review his third novel. I have to say, that I jumped at the chance.
“Lies” is a novella set during the Salem witch trials. The
story is told in first person from Ann Putnum Jr’s view. The novella is
shorter, which is satisfying with every turn of the page as you near the climax.
Dahl has said that the first draft of this book was written during the first
half of NaNoWriMo. Which is of course (if you read my blog/follow my Twitter) something
that I participate in and support strongly.
Like I stated above, this novella is written in first
person. Now, some people really enjoy first person because they feel closer to
the character and can really see their views. For me, first person is
distracting and slightly insulting to the reader. As the old writing adage goes, “Show don’t
tell.” With first person I find it hard to show the reader and let them come to
the conclusions rather than telling them what to think about the story, or what
the character is feeling.
Dahl in “Lies” avoids this pitfall of first person
because the main character is so young, and her mind is not always made up. She
swings wildly in her feelings even in the same sentence at times. Ann Putnum is
a very interesting character, and it was fascinating to read from her POV. This
take on the Salem witch trials feels fresh and exciting.
The element of the fantastical was interestingly juxtaposed
against the everyday life of a young girl in the late 1600’s. Dahl really
captured the reader’s imagination and curiosity as well the sense of unease as we
were swept in the hysteria and anxiety of the trials.
There were a few sentences that needed to be rearranged for
the prose to really flow for the reader. I also found a few typos; but this is
my college editing years coming back to me. Dahl has some wonderful descriptions
sprinkled throughout. He truly captured the wintery scene in Salem and the
agitation of the town. These images stay with the reader and contribute to the
atmosphere of the novella.
I greatly enjoyed this novella and its unique perspective of
the Salem Witch Trials. “Lies” clearly shows that we as readers can expect
great things in the future from Dahl. And I for one, am looking forward to
following his progress!
Sunday, June 15, 2014
My Year so Far...
So this year's theme has been the year of doing scary things.
And so far I have lived up to it. Between the new job and adjusting my schedule to that, as well as writing and trying to keep up(ish) with this blog, my writing has really taken center stage.
The main scary thing I have done so far is to donate the horse that I owned for eight years to a kids' camp four hours away. That was probably the hardest thing I have EVER done, hands down. Worse than going to a new school in the middle of the year, speaking in front of people or breaking off my engagement a few years ago.
But moving on...
I did have to back up my plans for querying agents as I was thrown behind in my editing. However, I am only a few weeks behind in my initial new years resolution of querying by the end of June. I am still on track to finish writing the third book in the series during the Camp Nano session. But I am having a beta reader go through the newest version of the first book before.
Next up: Planning the ending of the third, writing it, and working on the second book as well. And then, once I get back the first from the beta reader it will be time for another edit and polish before querying. Not sure how that process will go....but we will learn as I go, and I will take you guys along with me!
Until next time keep those keys typing and the pens writing!
And so far I have lived up to it. Between the new job and adjusting my schedule to that, as well as writing and trying to keep up(ish) with this blog, my writing has really taken center stage.
The main scary thing I have done so far is to donate the horse that I owned for eight years to a kids' camp four hours away. That was probably the hardest thing I have EVER done, hands down. Worse than going to a new school in the middle of the year, speaking in front of people or breaking off my engagement a few years ago.
But moving on...
I did have to back up my plans for querying agents as I was thrown behind in my editing. However, I am only a few weeks behind in my initial new years resolution of querying by the end of June. I am still on track to finish writing the third book in the series during the Camp Nano session. But I am having a beta reader go through the newest version of the first book before.
Next up: Planning the ending of the third, writing it, and working on the second book as well. And then, once I get back the first from the beta reader it will be time for another edit and polish before querying. Not sure how that process will go....but we will learn as I go, and I will take you guys along with me!
Until next time keep those keys typing and the pens writing!
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
What Shin Splints Taught Me
So....If you have read my blog before you will know that I started running in the past month or so. I have actually made progress in "leaps and bounds"....pun intended ;) I can run further and faster despite having asthma, and I even run outside on the weekends.
The problem?
I must have done too much too soon. As I was finishing my run on Sunday, I started having pains running up the insides of my shins and calf muscles. So off I went home to ice, put on my ace bandages that I used to wear when riding, and get off my feet. They felt better, but the next day it hurt to walk without shoes on. Once again, I iced, put on wraps and elevated my legs. Also a low grade pain reliever.
Ugh, now it's Wednesday and I haven't been back to the gym or running outside. I'm actually frustrated that I can't work out instead of the other way around. It's shocking.
But, what has this taught me? This painful, annoying situation?
To take things slow, and enjoy the ride. It's not just the end destination that is important, but the journey. So from now on I will take my running slower so that I don't get any more posterior shin splints.
I think it's a good lesson for everything, and not just running.
The problem?
I must have done too much too soon. As I was finishing my run on Sunday, I started having pains running up the insides of my shins and calf muscles. So off I went home to ice, put on my ace bandages that I used to wear when riding, and get off my feet. They felt better, but the next day it hurt to walk without shoes on. Once again, I iced, put on wraps and elevated my legs. Also a low grade pain reliever.
Ugh, now it's Wednesday and I haven't been back to the gym or running outside. I'm actually frustrated that I can't work out instead of the other way around. It's shocking.
But, what has this taught me? This painful, annoying situation?
To take things slow, and enjoy the ride. It's not just the end destination that is important, but the journey. So from now on I will take my running slower so that I don't get any more posterior shin splints.
I think it's a good lesson for everything, and not just running.
Monday, June 2, 2014
6 months...halfway mark
I can't believe it's June 2nd!!!
I swear it was just January!
Well if it's June then that means that my self-induced dateless year is half over. (Crowd Cheers) Since being 18 this is the LONGEST I've ever gone without dating, having a Boyfriend, or love interest.
I've found it oddly freeing, and refreshing.
It's not that I dislike having a beau, bae, or whatever kids these days are calling it. No, I actually love being in a relationship.
So why did I commit myself to being single for a year?
Well you could go back and read my blog post about it...or this it in a nutshell:
I was getting my self esteem and self worth from the person or persons I was seeing.
It's not that I've never stood up for myself or that I even dislike myself. But was was happening was I started measuring my worth as a human being by how my significant other saw me. And that's just not healthy. Plus it was such a drain on my emotional energy and physical time. I was just tired of playing the games people now seem so keen on playing.
So what have I done in the past six months?
I've written 1 and a half books, and about to finish the other half in July. I have edited two novels once, and am on my second (actually its like the 6th but whatevs) large pass through on my first novel. Came up with ideas to further the series. Read a half dozen books. I have kept and excelled at my new job. Loving my once a week Yoga class. And I started running.
I know, I know, me running.
It is a little weird, and I have to take it slow thanks to asthma, but I actually enjoy it.
So here's to the next 6 months! Bring it on!!
I swear it was just January!
Well if it's June then that means that my self-induced dateless year is half over. (Crowd Cheers) Since being 18 this is the LONGEST I've ever gone without dating, having a Boyfriend, or love interest.
I've found it oddly freeing, and refreshing.
It's not that I dislike having a beau, bae, or whatever kids these days are calling it. No, I actually love being in a relationship.
So why did I commit myself to being single for a year?
Well you could go back and read my blog post about it...or this it in a nutshell:
I was getting my self esteem and self worth from the person or persons I was seeing.
It's not that I've never stood up for myself or that I even dislike myself. But was was happening was I started measuring my worth as a human being by how my significant other saw me. And that's just not healthy. Plus it was such a drain on my emotional energy and physical time. I was just tired of playing the games people now seem so keen on playing.
So what have I done in the past six months?
I've written 1 and a half books, and about to finish the other half in July. I have edited two novels once, and am on my second (actually its like the 6th but whatevs) large pass through on my first novel. Came up with ideas to further the series. Read a half dozen books. I have kept and excelled at my new job. Loving my once a week Yoga class. And I started running.
I know, I know, me running.
It is a little weird, and I have to take it slow thanks to asthma, but I actually enjoy it.
So here's to the next 6 months! Bring it on!!
Friday, May 23, 2014
Do you ever?
Do you ever have one of those days that you just want to end?
That seems so terrible you just want to stop whatever you are doing/saying/working on and hide under a pillow fort somewhere?
Well that was tuesday this week for me.
It started off innocently enough. Not a sign of how things would change as the hours ticked by.
It just felt like I couldn't do anything right. Nothing at work was working. (Though my computer not working was/is NOT my fault, the stupid thing hasn't worked right form day 1) But just stupid mistakes adding up to give me this horrible stomach pains. I didn't feel good either, I felt like I was going to have to hurl.
Luckily I did not, and I somehow managed to make it through the day. When I got home I did hide, but not in a pillow fort, sadly. I just stayed inside away from other people, and away from whatever else the world had in store for me.
Maybe there was hint that I should have stayed in bed...I missed my first two alarms for work.
Ahh universe, you cruel teacher!
That seems so terrible you just want to stop whatever you are doing/saying/working on and hide under a pillow fort somewhere?
Well that was tuesday this week for me.
It started off innocently enough. Not a sign of how things would change as the hours ticked by.
It just felt like I couldn't do anything right. Nothing at work was working. (Though my computer not working was/is NOT my fault, the stupid thing hasn't worked right form day 1) But just stupid mistakes adding up to give me this horrible stomach pains. I didn't feel good either, I felt like I was going to have to hurl.
Luckily I did not, and I somehow managed to make it through the day. When I got home I did hide, but not in a pillow fort, sadly. I just stayed inside away from other people, and away from whatever else the world had in store for me.
Maybe there was hint that I should have stayed in bed...I missed my first two alarms for work.
Ahh universe, you cruel teacher!
Friday, May 16, 2014
Is it just me..?
So the other day I was driving home from work, like I do 5 days of the week, and something happened that doesn't often.
Some one was following me, and I didn't recognize the car.
Now a normal person would simply continue driving home and not think or notice anything out of the ordinary. Well let me tell you the reason why I start to panic when someone follows the same path I am driving.
Several years ago, I was driving to my then boyfriend's house after college classes. I happened to take the back ways, which means country roads. Almost all of the roads are 45MPH, and so I was turning onto a road, watching traffic, and decided to merge. Clearly the woman driving the car that I went ahead of had been speeding up instead of actually going anywhere near the speed limit. As such, I watched her tap her breaks and continue on a distance behind me.
I continued on my way, and it was only when I turned on to the small side street the house I was going to was on, did I realize that she had been following me.
Now let me quantify something...I had been on backroads...the college I was driving from was a half hour away from the house I was going to...and this lady had followed me for over 20 minutes.
I opened my car door to get out, and lo and behold the woman was already out of her car, and walking towards mine. She proceeded to shout at me claiming I was irresponsible, and that I had forced her to brake so hard that her sleeping baby had slammed its head against the carrier. All the while, she left her car door open, the vehicle running and she had no idea who I was or if I had a weapon with me.
Clearly I was not the irresponsible one. I managed to get her to go away, and only when she was gone did my then boyfriend come out of the house. Instead of being understanding, and considerate of my feelings, he chastised me for showing her where he lived. (Again I don't know why I didn't realize we were not good for each other sooner)
Since that day, if a car following me takes too many of the same turns and I am near my house, suddenly I am interested in not going home. Instead of going right home, I now take random turns until I am sure that the car has turned off.
Suddenly I am in a chase and must escape the (enter in whatever force you want to)!
Some one was following me, and I didn't recognize the car.
Now a normal person would simply continue driving home and not think or notice anything out of the ordinary. Well let me tell you the reason why I start to panic when someone follows the same path I am driving.
Several years ago, I was driving to my then boyfriend's house after college classes. I happened to take the back ways, which means country roads. Almost all of the roads are 45MPH, and so I was turning onto a road, watching traffic, and decided to merge. Clearly the woman driving the car that I went ahead of had been speeding up instead of actually going anywhere near the speed limit. As such, I watched her tap her breaks and continue on a distance behind me.
I continued on my way, and it was only when I turned on to the small side street the house I was going to was on, did I realize that she had been following me.
Now let me quantify something...I had been on backroads...the college I was driving from was a half hour away from the house I was going to...and this lady had followed me for over 20 minutes.
I opened my car door to get out, and lo and behold the woman was already out of her car, and walking towards mine. She proceeded to shout at me claiming I was irresponsible, and that I had forced her to brake so hard that her sleeping baby had slammed its head against the carrier. All the while, she left her car door open, the vehicle running and she had no idea who I was or if I had a weapon with me.
Clearly I was not the irresponsible one. I managed to get her to go away, and only when she was gone did my then boyfriend come out of the house. Instead of being understanding, and considerate of my feelings, he chastised me for showing her where he lived. (Again I don't know why I didn't realize we were not good for each other sooner)
Since that day, if a car following me takes too many of the same turns and I am near my house, suddenly I am interested in not going home. Instead of going right home, I now take random turns until I am sure that the car has turned off.
Suddenly I am in a chase and must escape the (enter in whatever force you want to)!
Saturday, May 10, 2014
Saying Goodbye
Today is D-Day.
Today I say goodbye to my best friend for the past almost 8 years of my life.
Today I will load Electra onto a trailer so that she, and I, can each start the next chapter in our lives.
I have been thinking about not having a horse for many months now. And have finally made the decision to donate her to a camp. She will be taking kids and adults out on the trails all day, which she will absolutely adore and love.
No, there is nothing wrong. Either with me or her, no one is sick, lame or a terrible horse. In fact she is probably the best behaved horse I have ever met. She has had kids falling on her face, sitting under her and poking her belly, pulling her tail and ears, and running behind her. As well as my shenanigans over the years. Like going over tarps, jumping ditches, trail riding where there was no trail, some horse shows, and of course throwing cats on her back. And she has taken it all in stride.
I took an un-rideable, scared little 4 yr old horse that no one could break, and molded her into the great, loving, and safe horse that she is today. She has also changed and molded me. I hate to think what my life would have been like after my first horse died had I not had her. We have helped and saved each other in so many ways, and I will be eternally grateful to her.
If I could say one thing to her, and have her understand. it would be:
"You have been an incredible partner, and I will always love you. Now, go make some kids very happy, and show them what a great horse you are."
This is the hardest decision I have ever made in my life. But I know that for me and for her, right now, this is the best choice.
So please do not say "I'm sorry" when you see me or when you read this. I am not sorry, and neither should you be.
Today I say goodbye to my best friend for the past almost 8 years of my life.
Today I will load Electra onto a trailer so that she, and I, can each start the next chapter in our lives.
I have been thinking about not having a horse for many months now. And have finally made the decision to donate her to a camp. She will be taking kids and adults out on the trails all day, which she will absolutely adore and love.
No, there is nothing wrong. Either with me or her, no one is sick, lame or a terrible horse. In fact she is probably the best behaved horse I have ever met. She has had kids falling on her face, sitting under her and poking her belly, pulling her tail and ears, and running behind her. As well as my shenanigans over the years. Like going over tarps, jumping ditches, trail riding where there was no trail, some horse shows, and of course throwing cats on her back. And she has taken it all in stride.
I took an un-rideable, scared little 4 yr old horse that no one could break, and molded her into the great, loving, and safe horse that she is today. She has also changed and molded me. I hate to think what my life would have been like after my first horse died had I not had her. We have helped and saved each other in so many ways, and I will be eternally grateful to her.
If I could say one thing to her, and have her understand. it would be:
"You have been an incredible partner, and I will always love you. Now, go make some kids very happy, and show them what a great horse you are."
This is the hardest decision I have ever made in my life. But I know that for me and for her, right now, this is the best choice.
So please do not say "I'm sorry" when you see me or when you read this. I am not sorry, and neither should you be.
Monday, May 5, 2014
A new Venture
So aside from all of the other personal things and adult type decisions, I have been inspired and thinking about starting a youtube channel.
I have my favorite YouTubers, and I find them really inspirational as well as entertaining. While watching I think, "Yeah I can make people laugh. I have things to say about adult life, writing, being creative, and some nerd-y interests." I already have a screen name or YouTube name in mind, but my question is:
Would you listen to me for a minimum of 5 minutes in a video?
I haven't decided if I would do a video a week or every two weeks. I know that my life is NOT exciting enough to have a daily vlog, since it would basically be me driving to and from work and writing. But I have brainstormed some ideas for at least 3 videos so far.
So, yeah, just let me know either by liking this on FB or by recommending this on Blogger.
Who knows? Maybe I'll just do it anyways :P
I have my favorite YouTubers, and I find them really inspirational as well as entertaining. While watching I think, "Yeah I can make people laugh. I have things to say about adult life, writing, being creative, and some nerd-y interests." I already have a screen name or YouTube name in mind, but my question is:
Would you listen to me for a minimum of 5 minutes in a video?
I haven't decided if I would do a video a week or every two weeks. I know that my life is NOT exciting enough to have a daily vlog, since it would basically be me driving to and from work and writing. But I have brainstormed some ideas for at least 3 videos so far.
So, yeah, just let me know either by liking this on FB or by recommending this on Blogger.
Who knows? Maybe I'll just do it anyways :P
Friday, April 18, 2014
The dreaded words no writer wants to hear....
That's right, this post is going to be about Writers Block.
All writers at some point or another have felt this much feared aspect to living a creative life.
Most blame TV, Movies, Books, our families or life in general. They say, it's a bad writing day, I'll just come back to it tomorrow. Or maybe it starts slowly with writing a little less each day until the writing stops. However it comes about, Writers Block usually has nothing to do with the actual story the person is working on, it's usually not even an outside force. Rather it is a psychological blockage.
In my own writing life I have encountered Writers Block in a few forms.
Some of the worst Writers Block I had was when I was emotionally drained from a relationship I was in. It probably didn't help that I was also working 32+ hours a week, as well as attending college full time. I was so drained from trying to be everything to everyone that my personal writing sadly fell to the wayside.
The only thing that helped, and this was only one of the two good things that I took from my capstone professor, was an assignment to write 500 words 5 days a week. They had to be new words of fiction. Unlike the two stories we were supposed to write, they could be anything. So digging deep I unearthed a story idea that I had started when I was 16 but had stopped writing.
Ta-DA. I got so jazzed about this new project that completing my 2500 words a week soon became easy, and was actually enjoyable. I could easily hammer out my weekly word count in an hour or two. It was me time. Time to escape.
Fast forward to now when I am participating in Camp NaNoWriMo. My chosen project is the third installment in the series, and while I may always hit my word count, my spirit was lacking. My heart wasn't really in it.
Finally earlier this week I had an epiphany.
I had been trying to figure out how to take the events needed to finish this series into books three and four. And I suddenly realized that this needed to be a trilogy and not a cycle.
I quickly started writing more and more this week. Each day getting close or over 2k words. My passion for this project is back.
Morals of the story?
Don't spread yourself too thin.
Make your writing sacred, and do not cancel your writing time, FOR ANYONE.
Do anything to get yourself excited about a project. Take the time to flesh out your characters. Write scenes or background that your audience will never see. Anything to get excited and passionate about your project.
The world deserves the story you're writing. Your story matters. You matter.
Take the time for yourself, and your writing will follow.
Happy Writing!
All writers at some point or another have felt this much feared aspect to living a creative life.
Most blame TV, Movies, Books, our families or life in general. They say, it's a bad writing day, I'll just come back to it tomorrow. Or maybe it starts slowly with writing a little less each day until the writing stops. However it comes about, Writers Block usually has nothing to do with the actual story the person is working on, it's usually not even an outside force. Rather it is a psychological blockage.
In my own writing life I have encountered Writers Block in a few forms.
Some of the worst Writers Block I had was when I was emotionally drained from a relationship I was in. It probably didn't help that I was also working 32+ hours a week, as well as attending college full time. I was so drained from trying to be everything to everyone that my personal writing sadly fell to the wayside.
The only thing that helped, and this was only one of the two good things that I took from my capstone professor, was an assignment to write 500 words 5 days a week. They had to be new words of fiction. Unlike the two stories we were supposed to write, they could be anything. So digging deep I unearthed a story idea that I had started when I was 16 but had stopped writing.
Ta-DA. I got so jazzed about this new project that completing my 2500 words a week soon became easy, and was actually enjoyable. I could easily hammer out my weekly word count in an hour or two. It was me time. Time to escape.
Fast forward to now when I am participating in Camp NaNoWriMo. My chosen project is the third installment in the series, and while I may always hit my word count, my spirit was lacking. My heart wasn't really in it.
Finally earlier this week I had an epiphany.
I had been trying to figure out how to take the events needed to finish this series into books three and four. And I suddenly realized that this needed to be a trilogy and not a cycle.
I quickly started writing more and more this week. Each day getting close or over 2k words. My passion for this project is back.
Morals of the story?
Don't spread yourself too thin.
Make your writing sacred, and do not cancel your writing time, FOR ANYONE.
Do anything to get yourself excited about a project. Take the time to flesh out your characters. Write scenes or background that your audience will never see. Anything to get excited and passionate about your project.
The world deserves the story you're writing. Your story matters. You matter.
Take the time for yourself, and your writing will follow.
Happy Writing!
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Scene
This is something that I just wrote, with little to no editing.
Enjoy!
PS- Nairn is a dragon :)
Enjoy!
PS- Nairn is a dragon :)
“As you can see, we come with nearly a
thousand warriors.”
“I only see half of that.”
Yaretzi, Chimalli, and Damien were all seated
in Cisneros’ large tent with his two sons. He seemed to be letting the eldest
son do most of the talking.
“What are talking about?”
“I mean, you brought men and women. Meaning
that you only brought half of what you think.”
Damien sat back, his arms crossed over his
chest; he noticed that Cisneros also had an amused expression. Clearly Ciccero
had much to learn about women despite his being a grown man. Yaretzi stood from
her crouched position.
“I would take ten of my best female warriors
for every thirty of your males.” Her hips swung to the side, and her hands
planted on them in a gesture that Damien was beginning to be familiar with. He
was just glad that it wasn’t at him this time.
“Is that so.” Ciccero stood as well. His
arms, while not overly large, were corded with lean muscle. He clearly had had
practice swinging a sword.
“Yes.” Damien watched as Yaretzi’s eyes
sparked. “I challenge you to a duel. First blood wins.” She shrugged, “Nothing
serious. Nothing that you can’t handle, I am sure.”
Ciccero looked to his father, a questioning
look on his face.
“Well, you’re the one who claims women can’t
fight. This would be the time to learn.” Cisneros looked past his son to wink
at Damien before sipping from his drink.
“I accept. First blood wins.” He smiled his
teeth glinting. “I will try not to mar that pretty face of yours that my
brother likes.”
“And I will try not to take your manhood
away.” Yaretzi spun on her heel and left the tent leaving Ciccero with a
confused look on his face.
Cisneros coughed, “She means…” he pointed
down the middle of his son’s body until a look of understanding came across
Ciccero’s features.
Without another word Ciccero stomped out of
the tent, followed by Crosns, leaving Chimalli, Damien, and Cisneros.
“Well this should be interesting.” Chimalli
stood and stretched before leaning to grab some nuts and fruit off of the
table. “Better take some snacks.”
Damien followed after Cisneros, and blinked
rapidly while his eyes adjusted to the bright light. When he could see again,
he found a ring of people already around where Yaretzi and Ciccero stood. The
young man stood with several of his mates, while Yaretzi stood alone, fastening
her long handled blade together. Damien calmly walked up to her.
“Please go easy on him, we do want to make
friends.” She smiled fiercely up at him before leaning up closer to him.
“He won’t know what hit him.” She turned and
met him for a passionate kiss before she broke away. He walked out of the ring
to where Nairn had wedged himself so that he could see as well.
‘She’s going to whoop him.’
‘Yep.’
‘Be fun to watch though.’
‘Yep.’
‘At least you got better, I was worried that
you would never amount to much of a swordsman.’
‘Hey!’ He swatted at Nairn’s nose.
‘Well she was always beating you. Until you
learned to read the ground and how people move.’ Nairn moved his head and nearly
knocked over Chimalli. ‘Ooh it’s starting!’
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Preparation
It is March 29th and I am sitting in a very crowded Starbucks.
What, might you ask, am I doing here? Especially since I do not like crowds...or coffee for that matter.
It is two days before the spring session of Camp NaNoWriMo begins and I am ironing out some of the details of my plot cards and adding to my character list. I have been sorted into my cabin, and I have to say that I am excited to have been sorted with my fellow cabin mates! Everyone is writing some kind of fantasy novel (it seems) and there are a few people included that sound like they are just as excited as I am to start this crazy journey again.
I have fully planned out the third installment of my fantasy series, and am starting to get excited at seeing all of my characters again. It has been very difficult to wait to write this next book until April 1st. I was so excited for this coming month that I even took off of work on Tuesday, April 1st!
My plan is to get up at the normal time for work and write for a solid 3/4 hours and then treat myself to breakfast at a place I love but haven't been to for a while.
Once again my goal for the month will be high. My goal according to the webpage is 60 K in the 31 days. But my real goal is to write 2,500 words each day, hopefully almost 5K on the days when I am off. I really want to finish this story in the 31 days, and I know that it will be between 75-80K.
I cannot accurately describe the joy that this will bring me. Even if no one ever reads my stories, I love writing. I love creating characters and then letting them take me on an adventure.
Though I do hope someday, people will love the characters as much as I do.
What, might you ask, am I doing here? Especially since I do not like crowds...or coffee for that matter.
It is two days before the spring session of Camp NaNoWriMo begins and I am ironing out some of the details of my plot cards and adding to my character list. I have been sorted into my cabin, and I have to say that I am excited to have been sorted with my fellow cabin mates! Everyone is writing some kind of fantasy novel (it seems) and there are a few people included that sound like they are just as excited as I am to start this crazy journey again.
I have fully planned out the third installment of my fantasy series, and am starting to get excited at seeing all of my characters again. It has been very difficult to wait to write this next book until April 1st. I was so excited for this coming month that I even took off of work on Tuesday, April 1st!
My plan is to get up at the normal time for work and write for a solid 3/4 hours and then treat myself to breakfast at a place I love but haven't been to for a while.
Once again my goal for the month will be high. My goal according to the webpage is 60 K in the 31 days. But my real goal is to write 2,500 words each day, hopefully almost 5K on the days when I am off. I really want to finish this story in the 31 days, and I know that it will be between 75-80K.
I cannot accurately describe the joy that this will bring me. Even if no one ever reads my stories, I love writing. I love creating characters and then letting them take me on an adventure.
Though I do hope someday, people will love the characters as much as I do.
Saturday, March 22, 2014
Changes
Sadly my laptop computer that I have had for the past 5 years was dying. So with a slightly heavy heart I started shopping around for another computer. I finally settled on a Mac, and after careful thought and good info from my dad, I picked a MacBook Pro. So far so good.
I am looking forward to exploring the programs and being able to write my novels without fear of having my laptop crash and losing all of my work.
Oh and check out the NaNoWriMo personalization :)
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Just Stories
Last week
I went with my mother on a mission trip downtown. It was a lovely experience helping
others, and I adored the kids who came by. The ladies that we carpooled with
are members of a group that my mother is a member of. Naturally these ladies
have never met me, and the question of “What do you do” popped up. So I gave
the normal response of my day job, and then I said that I am a writer and that I
am currently fixing both my first and second novel as well as planning out the
third. My words were rewarded with impressed nods and smiles. Then the next
logical question: “What do you write”. Without flinching I explained that my
current project was a high or epic fantasy series similar to Tolkien (always good
to use a reference most people will understand). I was rewarded with another
nod. Then the Kicker:
“But
those are just stories. I only read stuff I can learn something from, like
history, biographies. You know, that kind of stuff.”
I take
it as either a sign of maturity or of acceptance of other peoples opinions,
that I didn’t slap her. My mother must have seen my initial reaction before I switched
to a neutral expression, for she laid her hand on my arm. I let the woman
rattle on and inserted the appropriate “yes”, “I see”, and the non-committal
noises. But all the while my emotions were scrambled. I couldn’t believe how
easily this woman just offended me, how flippant her words were. And not only
that, but with one sentence she essentially told me that the five years I spent
in college learning about Creative Writing and all of my passion for writing is
nothing.
All week
her words have been ringing around in my mind. “They’re just stories. “ I am no
longer offended, but rather I have a response that I wish I would have come up
with when she had first said her piece. Yes, they are “just” stories. Yes, I
like to both read and write them. However, there are a few things about writing
and about “stories” you should know.
When I
write I am getting into another persons mindset; their lives, thoughts, hopes,
dreams, and desires. I am not escaping from reality, I am diving head first
into the human condition. It is messy and convoluted, just as “real life” is.
As for
the history of stories: telling stories whether histories or something that was
come up with on the spot. Stories bring people together. They teach about the
past, the present and the future. Stories and ability to come up with new ones
is something that is unique to modern humans. It separates us from every other
animal on the planet. While the rest of the animals were cowering in the dark,
we were telling stories around the campfire.
Stories
tell us who we are. And besides, history is usually written by the “winners”, which means they are often skewed. How are the histories and biographies NOT stories? The only difference is
that these stories happened. All of the stories, whether they are fiction or
fact teach us something about ourselves. They teach us of our faults, our
prides, our aspirations as a species.
We need
stories. Both fiction and fact to be who we are. I am no longer upset with her
and her ignorant comments, I actually feel sorry for her that she can’t see
past her own bias.
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Pitch for Novel #1
Okay, I feel like I have a good handle on a Pitch for my first novel...Whatcha guys think? Would YOU read my novel?
It’s been 21 years since Moriels’ betrayal. 21 years since
the destruction of the Ryders. 21 years for the four Realms to fall into
distrust and complacency. Magic hadn’t been a part of the people’s lives for
centuries; it was now only a weapon to be wielded against the common people. It
was something to be feared. And besides, who did they need protection from?
Moriels’ vengeance was complete… or so they thought.
Isolated
from the Realms a young girl, Riona, grew up in the shadows of the Rhal-Dages
mountains in the Rhydian Valley. Among their craggily peaks and unforgiving
landscape, she learned to hunt and provide for herself. Until a chance
encounter with a mysterious figure unlocks something within her, and propels her
into events she does not understand. Stalked by nightmarish shadow figures, she
tries to uncover the truth of who she is.
Plotting
and backhanded attempts on the life of a King in the Mountain Realm capitol of
Erskine prompt Riona, and her companions to action. With no one else aware of
the impending threat, the unlikely companions are standing on the precipice of a
change that will echo through the annals of time.
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