Saturday, February 27, 2010

the happy rule

It's the freakin' weekend baby, I'm about to have me some fun!!

I figured it's Saturday, there isn't any reason to have a serious post... a writing post... real hard questions. Well that and I really don't have much to say on the subject. I've writing 15,000 words for Finding Me and still going strong, I have a lot to write down before I hit the wall of "can't look at it anymore even if I tried" my husband read it for the first time last night, just to see how it was. He admitted after that he was really nervous, unsure of what he would get but that he loved it! He is impartial yes, but it was still a huge confidence booster and I couldn't have thanked him enough. Though there were many choppy parts he said he would have continued reading it. Luckily I hadn't written anymore or my nerves would have been shot! My goal is to have 20,000 words by the end of the week!

Tonight is movie night with the girls. It's part of my friends 30 things to do before she is 30. She is currently blogging about it over at Thirty on the Horizon. We are going to be watching 16 Candles and Breakfast at Tiffany's. She hasn't seen them and since they are must-sees we thought it was time! I haven't seen Breakfast at Tiffany's so it should be fun!

The Happy Rule - To be happy all weekend, no matter what it takes. Don't waste precious days off over things that are minuscule.

So Happy Saturday!!! What will you be doing to put a smile on your face?

Oh just a note, I'll be unplugged for the rest of the day and tomorrow so have a great weekend!

Friday, February 26, 2010

is it too soon?

So Finding Me has officially started. I have been toying around with different ideas for the book I want to focus on, not solely but at least give it a good go. Get my writing focused into one piece and in the end each piece will flow a little easier. Now since I am trying to soak up as much information in the wonderful world of writing I figured it is only right to ask some of my fellow blogger friends! You are very knowledgeable and since I am not, I guess you could say I'm being schooled.

Editing as been on the mind, not because I am in the process of beginning, I have only just begun the novel itself, piecing together the best parts that I have written. It normally starts as a cluster and works itself out. I was wondering however what part of your novel do you begin editing? I know everyone is different, but I would love a feel of what everyone does. Do you stop your book before hand, let it rest a day or two and then begin, or do you start that evening after you've finished your draft... a chapter... two chapters?

I know that once I get closer editing will be something that I do need to focus on, so I figured why not have the information stored up in my brain, something to work towards. I have also read that crit groups are great, and I think it will be nice to break out of my shell and show people (caring people) my work. I took the plunge to start this blog and it has turned out to be a fabulous experience, yes this is via the worldwide web, but this is also a step by step process!

Side note - since I have several trips this year I have cut costs for extras however my husband told me that when I reach 300 followers(because he's so sweet and think I will) I will be giving away a giftcard, or possibly a book, depends what is currently coming out!!! Just thought I'd give you exciting news!

Also Guinevere from This is Not My Day Job is hosting a fantastic contest for her 101followers so check it out here!!!!

I've joined twitter as well, so please add me since I am still a bit technically challenged (jenunedited is my tweet thingy....)

Thursday, February 25, 2010

where the music takes us

As writers we all have our own unique ways of learning more about our characters. We also use very basic tools to make us feel the emotions we want for our characters. One thing I do is scope out where I think my character might go, if she is an avid musician I'll go see live music play some place nearby to learn what an event would be like. If she loves coffee shops I'll visit a coffee shop and pretend I am her to get a feel of how I would act. It is nice to live in the life of your character, it only makes them more real.

I have recently found my playlist for my character Lauren in Finding Me... here it is

Cut by Plumb
The Moment I said it by Imogen Heap
Hide and Seek by Imogen Heap
Bird of the Summer by A Fine Frenzy
Swan Song by A Fine Frenzy
Walking on Air by Kerli
The Creationist by Kerli
Droplets (feat. Jason Reeves) by Colbie Caillat
Imaginary by Evanescene

Music can take you almost anywhere, make you feel sadness, happiness, betrayal... that is the true beauty. Some of these songs may mean something entirely different for you than they do for me. Lauren's song is Cut by Plumb, the feel of the song and lyrics define her. I wasn't even thinking of giving her a song, but thanks to pandora.com they put it on my playlist and I immediately loved it. As for Bird of the Summer and the Swan Song I love a Fine Frenzy and they give me the feel of Laurens personality.

Do you have your playlist created? What works best for you when creating your character? What kind of feelings are you striving for the reader to feel?

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

comfort books

We often read new books without thinking about all the old books we once read, there are those that didn't change us or our lives in any way, and then there are those few that never get old, you'd read a hundred times and still cry at the same parts, you could read the book frontwards and backwards and still want more. Those are called Comfort books, (Yes I'm stealing Caroline's post... check out her blog here, she is fantastic!!!)

So here is a list of my favorites those near and dear to my heart!


Rohl Dahl Books - They are brilliant, I read them as a child and they've never gotten old, I can't read them to my children, the silly fun tales. The BFG, The Twits, Matilda and many more.


Judy Blume - Another childrens writer that I truly enjoyed reading growing up!


Beverly Clearys - Ramona's books are fantastic! Another set that I can't wait to read to my children!


Harry Potter Series - I love the adventure and excitement, the magic and the struggles Harry endures, it's an amazing story for any age!


The Truth Tellers Tale by Sharon Shinn - THIS IS A MUST READ! By far one of my favorite books, out of all of these books you really must check this one out, I can not rave enough about Sharon Shinn, she is a fantastic writer!


Ella Enchanted - I know this is a movie, but I read the book long before the movie ever made it's debut. I remember reading it in the little cubes in our school library where there were so many pillows to snuggle with!

The two books that inspired me most to write was To Kill a Mockingbird and The Catcher in the Rye, those books I would recommend anyone and everyone to read!

So there you have it, my comfort books!! What are yours? Do you have a certain book you read each year?

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

teaser tuesday

This isn't a long teaser, which I think is nice since some of us have several blogs to look at, but you can still enjoy it!!

I sat hidden behind the trees, still adjusting to where I ended up, confused and disorientated from what felt like I'd been sucked through a tight space. I find myself standing near two boys by the river, they jumped into the river, I wanted to join them but was nervous. I sat still for a few more minutes until I had gotten the courage to walk closer, the acreage was large, I saw a house a few miles away, I assumed the boys lived there since no other houses were around, I finally approached them "hi" I said... No one answered. "Hi" I said louder. Still no one answered. I suddenly felt the hairs on the back of my neck stand up, something wasn't right, I turn and see him walking towards them... Terrified I stand frozen. I want to warn them but they don't hear me. he doesn't even seem to notice me. He walks... The boys laughing and playing in the river. Why don't they hear him?Don't they feel the something is off. I shiver... Though it isn't cold. He continues to walk, and approaches one boy, they notice him. Fear captivates them, then I see a boy fall. He's been stabbed, the other boy stands over him... motionless

Monday, February 22, 2010

200 Followers & Awards

Wow I am impressed and feel loved!! 200 Followers, I could have never imagined, you are truly wonderful bloggers and I love that you take the time to read my work everyday, or when you can!! It means a lot to me, the opinions and thoughts are much appreciated! I never expected the blogging world to be so open and kind but you have shown me that and then some, also the world of writers couldn't be kinder, and I love to be apart of the group! So thanks for following and I look forward to many newcomers!!!


Thanks to Kimberly Franklin for awarding me the From Me to You Award, I am sorry it took me so long to hand this one out or post it, but I haven't had the time to sit down and award them and I wanted to make sure to do that!! If you haven't checked out her blog you must, she has recently revamped her blog and it looks fantastic!!! You must list seven things about yourself!!!

1. I love Home Improvement shows
2. Sundays is my lazy day, I do nothing except hang with the hubby
3. Rain gives me more inspiration for scary stories
4. I'm an author addict, when I find an author I love I read all their stuff until I can't find anymore!
5. The Catcher in the Rye and To Kill a Mocking bird is what made me want to write
6. I love snow, even though I moved to Houston to get away from it
7. I'm a clean freak, when my house isn't picked up I tend to fall into a tizzy!

WINNERS:

Mireyah Wolfe over at Crimson Ink has a very cool blog! Having also just reached 100 blogs you simply must check out her amazing blog!!!

Stephanie over at the Writers Cocoon is amazing! She is in the last stage of editing! Hooray!!! Check her out!

Janice Hardy over at The Other Side of the Story, she is a brilliant writer with one fantastic blog!!


Thanks to Guinevere over at This is Not My Day Job, she has awarded me the Sugar Baby Doll Award! I must name 10 things about myself as should you when I award this too you!! Though we often cheat!

1. I'm addicted to blogging
2. I've always wanted to be a dancer, but never have a taken a dance class
3. My best writing comes from my dreams
4. I love to decorate and build things
5. I love road trips, some of my best times have been in a car
6. Structure is key in my life, without it I feel lost
7. writings on the wall has been one of the best ideas to make a better story
8. I love Life Saver Gummies Sours
9. When I'm sick I have to clean before I rest
10. I love board games, my favorite is clue

I'm awarding this too a few people!!!

WINNERS:

MissIvySparkle is a sweetheart and I would love to learn more about her!

Erin Kuhns is a doll over at Musings of a writer chick living in paradise! She is super sweet and recently talks about her love for her thesaurus which I think most of us can related too!

Crystal Cook over at write because you must, she is a sweetheart and I love reading her posts!!

writings on the wall

I see myself lying in a creek, my red locks entangled in the rocks, curls flowing in the water, my body appeared breathless, beaten and cut at the chest. My lips are blue and my whole body appears numb. I am me, but I am not. As I lay over my body tears fall lightly down my cheek, upset but can do nothing while sitting here. I stand up and look around it is an old unfamiliar place, a small creek that appears to go one for miles, and my body lying in the middle. There is no one around, I hear no birds, no animals, the silence is eerie. We are surrounded by trees, they are untouched trails covered with twigs, they seemed abandoned, no one walks through here. Alone I appear, though the hairs on the back of my neck would say different, someone or something is watching me. I want to run. My body remains motionless, I am looking at me and yet I am not me, I am confused and scared at what is going on. Why am I lying still in the creek, what happened? Why am I standing over my body and not in my body? The cuts ran deep over my chest, I was clearly losing blood and I could feel my energy running low. I couldn't stay here, I had to help myself. So I walked. The bushes rubbed against my skin, I could see the cuts but I continued to walk, something wasn't right, this was clear, but how to handle it I was still unsure. I felt around in my pockets and pulled out a rubberband, I tied my frazzled hair out of my face to start making some real ground in these woods. Untouched was an understatement, there had been several fallen trees that I had to work on moving when they were to large to pass, or find the end to walk around. Whoever put me here must have known it would be difficult to escape, or they must of known I wouldn't be alive. Either way... I wasn't to be found.

Saturday, February 20, 2010

unplugged....but


Happy Saturday!!! I am going to be unplugged for today, and quite possibly tomorrow, just giving you the heads up!!! If you haven't already checked out my experience with author Ally Carter please do so here!


Everyone have a wonderful weekend!!! I'm about to head out to Habitat for Humanity... what are you doing?!

Friday, February 19, 2010

Blue Willow Heist


Ally Carter author of the Heist Society stopped by Blue Willow Bookshop this evening. She was truly amazing! She was sweet enough to answer as many questions as she possibly could for all those eager teenagers! It was refreshing to see all of them glued to her every word. How each work inspired them, kept them wanting more. They asked excellent questions, many pertaining to what she was working on next, who her favorite characters were, and what made her write in the first place!!

The bookshop was adorable! I am a sucker for a good bookstore (as most of you are) and I must say this beats any Barnes & Noble out there, you cannot get the love for books like you can at a small locally owned bookstore. Valerie Koehler is the owner of the store, and as she stood up in front of all of us eager readers you could sense her love for books, she was so sweet to everyone along with the rest of her fantastic staff! The hundreds of books that graced the walls of the bookshop looked so enticing, I'll have to go back for more! I love the look of a brand new book, no creases, freshly bound pages just waiting to be opened. It is my favorite part about buying a new book!!! So if you live in the Houston area please check this little bookstore out, Blue Willow Bookshop They also happen to have a cute little picture of their front entrance, it's like your walking into a fairytale!


I was #9 for the signing line, and she took time to speak to each and every one of us, learn a little bit about us and sign away! She talked about how wonderful it was to tell lies and wear pajamas for a living, but at times how it could often be portrayed as a bit nutty! Her energetic and carefee attitude made you want to stay forever and listen to more about her experiences and how she came up with all the ideas. It's always amazing to see how a fellow writer came about a brilliant idea!!

As you can see I added a few pictures to the mix of the experience, my wonderful sister Kim over at Under the Umbrella shared the experience and was behind the camera! I hope you enjoyed the journey with me, and I look forward to many more trips to the local bookshop for more amazing authors!!! A big thanks to Kristin for posting about Ally Carter being in town, if it not for me reading her blog I would have never known!!!

fantastic freakin' friday


Hello my fellow early morning bloggers!!! (and afternoon for those who read at that time!) I am super excited for this weekend, or the fun that begins at 5pm (central time) this afternoon!!

I am going to see Ally Carter at a local bookstore!!! She is promoting Heist Society, and I am uber excited to meet her! It will be my very first time meeting an author and I am super excited!!! I am dragging my sister along for the ride... I get terrible nerves, and firsts must be done with a friend or family member!!

I also am pre-ordering Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins and Before I fall by Lauren Oliver this morning! I am so excited, I've waiting to purchase them, and now the wait is officially over!!!

Saturday I get to volunteer for Habitat for Humanity which I am also elated about! I've wanted to do it for years and never took the plunge, well this week my hubby and some friends of ours are going too!!!

If you could choose who would you like to see come into town for a book tour? Anyone else have anything exciting going on this weekend?

Thursday, February 18, 2010

I've been hoarding

forgive me my lovelies! I've me hoarding blog awards, and it's about time I hand some out!!!!



Thanks to In a box for this wonderful award!!! I'm excited because I don't have to do any work!!! Love it!!!

and the award goes too...

Shooting Stars - they give so much information, and there blog is beautiful! I can't rave enough! Tons of inspiration from them!!!

Summer at ...and this time concentrate! Can you tell I love her! I give her a ton of awards... I know I'm terrible, I'm inpartial!!

Kim over at Under the Umbrella - she has re-vamped her site, her pictures are fantastic and she is getting even better each day! Her latest picture truly inspired me!!!




Krystal also awarded me The Beautiful Blogger Award. I know I'm supposed to write 7 interesting things about myself... but here is one... I don't have time!!! forgive me loves!!!

and the award goes too...

Magically Ordinary!!! - She is fantastic, and your blog is beautiful! Please check her out!

Kristi Faith at R.A.W. - another awesome blogger!!! Check her out!


I just wanted to give a shout out to the award winners, now those who don't have these awards feel free to take it!!!! Love it!!! You deserve it!!!

endless thoughts

I wake up most mornings with several ideas and thoughts in my mind, I have found that the best time of day for me to write is in the mornings, and then right around
6pm (central time) I know it's funny to have it mapped out like that, but that is normally when the air has been cleared and I am able to focus solely on writing. That is often why you find the latest post in the morning, because I've written it that evening or first thing in the morning.

Is it the fact that we are writers that our brain never stops? I could be in full conversation with a friend, but at the same time I am currently allowing a story to marinate in my brain until I'm ready to write. Before bed I have several thoughts and my mind is never clear. Is that also why I could be a little crazy?!

One thing I love about my husband is he gladly puts up with it, I will rant about how my writing hasn't gone well, or I'll rave about the wonderful bloggers (YES YOU!) that I've met (I call you friends... he calls you followers... what does he know!) or just the several stories I have decided to write! Another thing I love about my husband is that he doesn't mind my evening rituals, which is simple, I talk as I drift off to sleep it could last anywhere from 10 minutes to 30 minutes, sometimes they are real thoughts, other times they are about pancakes and riding horses (which I've never done) and he doesn't mind!!! I also talk in my sleep, so it only proves my mind never rests!

So I ask you, what is your favorite time to write? Do you talk in your sleep, or talk as your drifting to sleep? Any crazy... weird... yet loveable quirks?!

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

success through the notebook

I wrote!!! I know most of you are saying "Duh, wasn't that what your blog was about?!" but all you regular blog readers know that I haven't exactly had the best week of writing, ran out of time, stressed, or making excuses, those are all valid reasons for why I didn't write (well they are valid in my book" however I am happy to say that walking away from my laptop for the evening and using the old school way of a notebook worked! I sat with no TV on, only the music I enjoy (currently 4 songs, yes I'm working on expanding!) and a pen and a notebook, and suddenly the words came. I wrote several different things, a piece of the collector, Emily which is another piece I am currently working on and then my latest little trial and error. I guess you could say that at the moment I'm just having a little fun! Anyway here is a piece that I have written (no it's not from the collector that's for later!)

The Single Gal

5:21pm
I sit mortified at the local coffee shop, I'm sure your wondering why, and I will explain in a moment. I ordered the usual, which is a cinnamon muffin and an ice cold Dr. Pepper - don't judge me coffee shops are great places to think - I go to pull a pen out of my purse and instead pull a tampon out. My face immediately turns beat read -trust me I know, I could feel it- and I quickly check to see if anyone has spotted my little mishap. Two High School students, bratty little teenage cheerleaders start chuckling, I've been caught, and by the last two people on the planet I wanted. Luckily they didn't stay long but they talked about me on their way out carrying their cute little red and pink laptops, disgusted by their apparent need for everything fabulous and the fact that they spotted my tampon I stuff my face with my muffin, though it eases the hurt a little I am still quite embarrassed at what I'd done. Happily enough there were only two other women in the coffee shop, both too consumed with themselves to notice anything else in the coffee shop. Whew, very close call but I know I'll recover with an evening of Ben & Jerry. Luckily no handsome men witnessed that public display of humiliation, not that it would have mattered , the ratty hair and miss-matched sweat pants and t-shirt would have made me want to crawl in a corner and die. I don't make a habit of wearing ridiculous clothing out of the house but the cinnamon muffin wouldn't stop calling my name, I rationalized that since it was across the parking lot I would be in and out and no one would notice. Suppose the tampon will now make me think twice.

So it's nothing special, just something a little silly I thought up... hope you all enjoy!!! Have any of you ever done anything super embarrassing that you only wished you could have crawled up into a ball and died?!

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

currently crazed

Yes I said it... I am currently crazed. My mind has been giving itself quite the work-out these past few days, and with Presidents Day yesterday and having the day off it only went faster. Thanks to the book that my friend gave me I have been learning a lot from Julia Cameron, she allows time for your mind to open to the flow of writing, taking the time to do silly exercises that at one moment might not make any sense, but after writing three pages of nonsense I suddenly have a whole new set of words that can be placed on paper.

As you can see I have skipped Mondays Writing on the Walls along with Teaser Tuesday, this is really due to being quite busy and stressed with other daily life activities. I plan on jumping back on the bandwagon for next weeks, holiday weeks tend to make you do crazy things! I can't wait to share more of the collector with you next week, once I get my life on track a little more!

How is everyone handling the weather? Any more blizzards headed your way? Any new leads on that wonderful novel you are working on?

Monday, February 15, 2010

the right to write

I know most of you are looking for writings on the wall, but due to Presidents day I have had to clean, do laundry and other things!!! So instead I'll talk a little bit about the book I'm reading...

One of my friends let me borrow a few books, and since you all know I love to soak up as much information at this moment that I can I gladly accepted. One of those books was The Right to Write by Julia Cameron. I am very excited to start reading it, well I have already started it therefore I know that I will enjoy it!

First Chapter is Begin, she shares a bit about the situation she is in and then at the end she gives an Initiation tool, which is what I have listed below...

Take three sheets of 8 1/2 by 11 paper. Start at the top of page one and for three pages decribe how and what you are feeling right now. Begin where are-physically, emotionally and psychologically. Write about anything and everything that crosses your mind.
This is a free-form exercise. You cannot do it wrong. Be petty, critical, whining, scared. Be exciting, adventurous, worried, happy. Be whatever and however you are at this moment. Get current. Feel the current of your own thoughts and emotions. Keep your ahnd moving and simply hang out on the page. When yu have finished writing there pages, stop.

I think this book is going to be very helpful and I want to thank Erin from Thirty on the Horizon for letting me borrow it!!! She has started a blog where she has listed 30 things she'd like to accomplish before she is 30, so you should check it out!!!

Sunday, February 14, 2010

per request - monkey bread recipe

It never accured to me that I hadn't posted the recipe for the monkey bread, so for those of you who have never had it, the recipe is super simple! Trevor's mom made it simple, and super yummy!!! Enjoy!!!

MONKEY BREAD

Ingredients:
3 cans of buttermilk biscuits
white sugar
ground cinnamon
brown sugar
1 stick butter

Recipe:

Oven Temp - 350 degrees
Time - 35 minutes

1. 3 cans of buttermilk biscuits cut into fourths, combine 1 cup white sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon in a ziploc bag. Roll each fourth in this mix.
2. Place each covered fourth into greased bunt pan.
3. Melt 1 stick of butter, add 1 cup of brown sugar. Boil this for 1 minute (smells delicious!!!)
4. Once boiled pour all this yummy goodness (aka brown sugar mixture) over the fourths in the bunt pan...

Then bake!!!! Allow 10 minutes for cool down time (thats the hardest part!) After 10 minute cool down flip over on round pizza pan, or whatever dish you prefer!!!

Let me know if you make it and love it!!!! There you have it, the yummiest monkey bread!

happy valentines day


I know a lot of you do not celebrate Valentines Day... I don't do anything special on valentines day, but I do enjoy the day off with my husband so it's a win for me!!! I am going to have coffee with my friend and then the rest of the day will be spent with my hubby!!!

Last night I made monkey bread and chili, I have never had monkey bread with chili until I met Trevor and his family, they love it, and after I had it once I loved it... this was my first time making monkey bread so I have of course added pictures to show you!!!

This picture is of all the buttermilk biscuits being cut in fourths for some cinnamon sugar goodness to be covered all over them!



Here I have completed the coating process, have them all neatly placed in the bunt pan!!!



Monkey bread is finished!!!! We waited 10 minutes for it to cool down so we could turn the bunt pan upside down!



The completed project, I must say it doesn't look nearly as appetizing in the picture, but the gooeyness look so yummy and the smell is fantastic.



So there you have it... I successfully made monkey bread! Go Me!!! I'm sure you've noticed the past two days I haven't had much to write about... hoping I get some excitement in my life or some inspiration here in the next few days!

Any plans for Valentines Day? Any new leads on your writing? Happy Sunday Blogging!!!

Saturday, February 13, 2010

saturday quiet time

I woke up this morning feeling fantastic and fresh, my husband however did not. He is not feeling well and is still resting. We don't make a habit of sleeping in, more or less because we wake up to early to do so! However with him currently sleeping that leaves me plenty time to do what I want.

There are so many options I don't even know what to choose!!! I of course have chosen to read blogs, one of my new favorite things to do! Sex and the city is on in the background, what can I say I can't get enough of that Carrie Bradshaw! I plan on writing a letter to a friend, I haven't hand written a letter in years but when I recieved one in the mail yesterday I loved it and though I'd return the favor! I also have several books I'd like to read so that will most likely take up quite a bit of time as well!

What are your plans for Saturday? It's cold here in Houston,TX so staying inside is first on the list, I know some of you have snow though... are you going sledding?!

Friday, February 12, 2010

bring it back friday

Why not? Bring back some good books, movies, music or writing… give us a little inspiration or nostalgia to get our spirits lifted even further for another wonderful weekend ahead!

I was listening to Hometown Glory by Adele (whom I love!) the song itself is not an old song, however the memories I get while listening to makes me happy. Reliving where you grew up, some of your favorite places, how united you were in your own town. I’m sure everyone remembers their high school events, whether it was drama, book club, or some sport you were all united as one, your team was better than all the other schools around. Mine was the South Side… South Side proud… to this day I still find myself saying the little “south side pride” chant in my head, nothing takes that away, good or bad you will always remember what made you who you are. I find that attending High School wasn’t necessarily the best years of my life but they certainly taught me the most, to trust in myself and I would surely succeed, and with the help of my favorite English teacher Ms. Malmberg I learned what it was like to really love books, really love the English language, the words the way they make you feel, the absolute brilliance of those who take the time to write an amazing novel.

Macbeth, To Kill a Mockingbird, and The catcher and the rye were the words that changed my life forever, she allowed me to understand how to read a Shakespeare play and what the true meanings of the other two were. I will never forget her, and listening to certain songs just brings me back to those days where I felt free and able to soak every word in she shared with my class.

So what are you favorite memories? An old song, movie or book that inspires you, or reminds you of how far you have come? A piece of writing when you were in high school?

Thursday, February 11, 2010

coffee shop calm


So the past two days I haven't been writing. Not because I don't want to, but because I just haven't had the time. With the stress of life in general sometimes its hard to get my head screwed on straight, at this point I would much rather have my head in the clouds. However I am happy to say that this evening I plan on writing, and it is the perfect day to do so, it's cold and rainy. Normally I am not a fan of this weather during the week, but when I am working on my Natalie story and The Collector I find that I work best when it is dark and rainy, gives me more of an eerie, terrifying feeling.

Now depending on the weather this evening I might make a visit to my local coffee shop. The Daily Brew, it is my favorite, now I am not a coffee drinker, but they serve cinnamon rolls!!! I must make an exception since as you all know that is my favorite snack! I also find that when I take my writing outside of the house I can concentrate more on just the work at hand, rather than the laundry that needs done, kitchen counters needing to be clean, catching up on DVR'd shows, you know... daily life. It's also very quiet and peaceful, they choose a light blend of music and it just adds to the inspiration!!

Where is your favorite place to write?

PS - Due to my busy schedule I have yet to be able to comment on several blogs, don't worry I haven't forgotten about you, I plan to take a look at your blogs sometime this week :)

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

for the love of genre

Frustration kicked in a few days ago, and I believe that I am finally mellowing out, though it has been a tough. Genre frustrates me, it could be because I am a beginning writer and just haven't found my niche, or maybe I am just all over the place.

Let me explain the problem, I love to write and I am good at it, not trying to sound arrogant. I was born to write, God has given me a gift, and I intend on using it as he has planned. The problem is that I have three different stories and none of them are in one specific genre.

Horror/Suspense/Thriller
Supernatural/Fantasy
Contemporary Romance

See my problem? Now I don't know if this is just inexperience talking, or if it is okay to dabble in each. I have started a story for each, and I love them all, the problem is that each day I have a different favorite.

So has anyone had several different genre's they enjoyed writing? Or did you only start with one, and that one was awesome enough!?

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

who doesn't love them...




Awards!!! Who doesn't love them! I have decided to hand out a few fun awards this evening!!! Some of my fellow bloggers that I just can't seem to get enough of!!!

In honor of Carrie Bradshaw I am hand out the Stylish Blog Award! You must name 5 fun-tastic things about yourself!!!!

Anissa from Anissa Off the Record, her blog is amazing, I love the layout and she always gives me such sweet comments!

Margaret at Finding Neverland she is brilliant, I love her background, so peacful and fun!

Katie Ganshert I love her posts, and her comments are always so wonderful!!! Stylish in my book for sure!

Kimberly Franklin is A-M-A-ZING!!!! Her blog is something I can't wait to read everyday!!! She also gives some of the best advice!!

Kristin Creative is fantastic!!!! Her blog is so stylish and her posts are brilliant! Plus she lives in Houston!!! Who doesn't love to live near a fellow blogger!

Heather at See Heather Write is also fantastic... she is amazing!

Guinevere at This is Not My Day Job is another fantastic person and blog that I love to read!!!

There is many more... and I have a few other awards to hand out... but I will do those later in the week!!! Oh and who doesn't love Carrie Bradshaw!!!

teaser tuesday

So here is just a piece of the collector, a story I am working on... If you haven't seen the first part you might want to get yourself up to date... check it out here

I break away… I throw the metal towards meat, expecting it to blow up, but it doesn’t. Terrified that he tricked me I am afraid that something worse is about to happen, I bolt to the trees, unaware of what might happen to me, but I also know that staying out in the open will only kill me faster. I crouch down hoping to not be seen, my heart beating so loudly I am afraid that he will hear it. I cover my mouth and take deep breaths, I must calm down or I will never escape. I see the gravel path, and the house, a few lights are still on, and I think I see a shadow walking around. I have no idea who is in there, I can’t tell if it is him, it’s too blurry, I know he drugged me and I am not sure that it has worn off yet. I am not as aware of my own body but I try and get myself to focus. I hug the tree and peer around the corner, still no movement, I have to keep moving, I must get out of this place. I try and re-trace my steps, I know that I will have to pass the main house to get to the exit, this only terrifies me more, I don’t want to die, I don’t want to pass by the house and get caught, tears roll down my cheeks at the thought, could I die today? What have I done to deserve this? I try not to psych myself out but just the thought of once again being captured makes me want to stay put. I gather my courage and strength and quietly tip toe my way on the grass, I am afraid to move to the gravel in fear that he might be watching me and can see me, instead I try and remain friends with the tall trees and the bushes nearby. As I inch closer to the house one of the lights goes off, I run and hide for a moment, is he coming outside? Oh god what have I done, what have I done?! My mind is screaming at the possibility of once again being captured, it’s now or never. I RUN, on the gravel, my bare feet being cut with each step I take, I try to focus on the gate I see at the front of the path, it is where I must be if I want any chance of escaping.

As always let me know what you think!!!!

Monday, February 8, 2010

it's raining awards!!!!!

Okay well Monday is over... well work wise, and on my way home from grabbing some frozen yogurt it started to rain! I have only lived in Houston for about 3 years and I must tell you, I have never experienced a down pour in Iowa like they are in Houston... so I am loving the awards I have gotten, it gives me a little more cheer today!!!!



I have been given the Circle of Friends Award by Kimberly Conway, check out her blog, she is brilliant!!!!



I have been given the Honest Scrap Award by Christine at Christine's Journey I love reading her blog, she is fantastic!!!

I have to now list 10 honest things about myself... they are a bit strange, and some just fun but they are me!!

1. Sex & The City DVD set and movie I love to watch over and over again
2. I wish I could own all seasons of Criminal Minds, but I'll have to stick with the first two.
3. Big Bang Theory is a fun comedy on Monday nights that makes the week complete!
4. I do not like condiments, yes that means I don't like ketchup and french fries
5. I don't like to re-use a tooth brush more than two weeks in a row
6. I like relaxed structure
7. I wish I didn't have to work and could devote all my time to writing
8. I wish I was able to conceive a child
9. I love showing off my apartment, it is the best one I lived in
10.I love showing my husband off to friends and family, because he is amazing and should be adored by all!!!



And last but certainly not least I have been given the Happy Award by Stef at 52 Weeks of Wordage reading her blog makes me super happy! Check her blog out!!!

I am too wiped out about sharing honest things with myself, and since I have already filled out 10 happy things about myself I choose to cheat and skip this!!! Though I stick by the fact that I love cinnamon rolls, and any chance I can mention those I will!!!

Thank you very much to those of you who thought I deserved these awards!!! They are super sweet!!!!

I would love to give these awards to a ton of people, but I have chosen three to give these awards too!!!

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS AWARD: Bish at Random Thoughts
HONEST SCRAP AWARD: Sherry at Flipping pages for all pages
HAPPY AWARD: Rebecca Lynn at New Kid on the Writers Block

I also plan on cheating again... I just wanted to showcase those blogs, but if you do not have these awards I know that all of my followers, and peeps that I follow are fantastic!!! So the award is well deserved! So congrats to everyone for their awards!!!

writings on the wall

Another addition of writings on the wall! So Happy Monday! Todays will be shorter, not because I wrote less but because one of the stories is part of the collector, and I am thinking about making that something for teaser tuesday... so you will have to stay tuned and see what I decide!

I stood there as he took his last breath, frozen with terror I watched as it all unfolded. His best friend cried as he passed on, I unable to move did nothing, they still could not see me. I wanted to help, to console, to tell what happened, but being invisible was next to impossible to have anyone hear me. I stood behind the trees watching, I had seen it all happen, the man meeting them by the river and murdering that boy, they couldn't have been any older than 12, I only say this because they looked about my age, and I just turned 12. Somehow I woke up here and when I tried to talk to them they couldn't see or here me. Frustrated I stayed close, I had no idea where I was, or why I was here, as I tried to piece everything together one of the boys parents showed up, they pulled their son away from the incident, they were thankful he was still alive but then began the questions. I knew he was in trouble as the police arrived, no one else had seen a thing, only the three of us, and now only two.

Sunday, February 7, 2010

the barnes & noble experience

Like a kid in a candy store I walk through the front door mesmerized by the selection, newly released books, classics, and then the world of genre. The starbucks it buzzing with talk of books, I don't stop for coffee, I'm in the zone. Too many books to look through and never enough time!!! What to do what to do!

I must tell you that we first stopped by the 1/2 half price book store, this too was overwhelming but fantastic. I am so unfamiliar with new authors that it was too much for yesterday, but Barnes & Noble has all the books laying out so beautifully you can't help but want to pick up a bunch of them! Luckily my husband was there to help me make a good selection, I picked three, one's I wouldn't normally purchase, but I wanted to try something new!!! Oh did I tell you, I am also now a member of B&N and I am so excited about it!!! I don't know what too me so long but it is awesome!!! Here are the three I chose:

I Promise Not to Tell by Jennifer McMahon
Watchers by Dean Koontz
The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz

My husband loves Dean Koontz so I was a team player!! I'll let you know how the search goes!!!

What's your favorite bookstore? How often do you visit? Do you ever try new books?

Side Note: Lauren Oliver is giving a way a signed copy of her new book Before I Fall before it even goes on sale in stores!!!! Check out her site here for more details!

Saturday, February 6, 2010

and the winner is....

I was so excited to get up this morning and choose the winner for the 100 Followers Contest! My husband chose a number between 1 & 21 to find the winner! But before I announce who that person is I want to thank everyone for signing up and also for being a follower! I never realized how many people really enjoyed reading my blog and all the support you give me is fantastic!!!

So now for the winner, it is Guinevere from This is Not My Day Job!!!! Congratulations! I love her blog so if you haven't checked it out, it is a must!!!!

Now for a few shout-outs to my fellow bloggers who have contests going on!!!

Jan Jones has a big fat gold book giveaway, Loves Me Loves Me Not, closing date is February 14th!!!!

Melissa at Chasing the Dream is having her 100 Followers contest!!! Congratulations to her!!! Her blog is fantastic so be sure to check it out!

Congratulations again to Guinevere!!!

Have a great blogging day!!!!

Friday, February 5, 2010

point of view

I am in the middle of my novel, and currently using third person (multiple points of view) and I realized I chose this point of view, this style, how did I choose it? Because it felt perfect for the story. However I wondered if in the next book or genre I worked on would I change to possibly first person? Does one change? It just got me wondering what others did in a situation like this...

How do you determine what point of view your going to write? Do you ever change your mind through your story, or for multiple books?

Sorry for the short post, I am currently reading A bump in the road and I am almost finished, not to mention that I have a ton of work to do at my day job, and will be working on my WIP this evening, so I hope to have time to comment on everyone's posts!!!

Also this is the last day for my 100 follower contest!!! I have a link to it on my sidebar!!! Sign up!!! :)

Happy Friday Everyone!!!

Thursday, February 4, 2010

must reads

Hello fellow bloggers!!! I have decided to list a few of my favorite books, this is just a traditional must read list, I thought that I would put four books that I really enjoyed, all different type of Genres and you could all add a few extra!!! I always love trying new books and a chance to see what others really enjoy reading!!! When posting your selection try and make sure that no one else has it already written down!! I want a great listing! Let's see what we can come up with!

Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
Match Me If You Can by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
The Truth Tellers Tale by Sharon Shinn
If I am missing or dead by Janine Latus

Also if you haven't signed up yet, I am doing a 100 Followers contest and I pick the winner Saturday morning!!!! Sign up by Midnight on Friday (Central Time) CLICK HERE!

Happy Blogging!

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

one lovely blog award


Thank you to Melissa over at Chasing Dreams for giving me the One Lovely Blog Award! If you haven't gone to her blog you must check it out!!!! She is super close to her 100 followers, and I just recently found her and love reading her posts each day!

I feel so honored to be recieving so many wonderful awards, I am glad that I can bring happiness to your each of your days!!!

I suppose it is time to pick someone to also get this lovely blog award, and I have selected Suzanne Young she is fantastic, her blog is amazing! She also is the author of The Naughty List series which is going to debut tomorrow!!! February 10th, 2010! So check out her blog!!!

work space fun



So the other day several blogs were sharing their work space with everyone... some were cozy, some were disorganized and exciting! Mine is organized and neat... And nice and open... here are a few pictures for you too enjoy!!!



I can see the freeway out of one set of my windows and a green patch that becomes a lake when it rains on the other! I love my space! We do have a computer room in the apartment, but I feel constricted and blocked from inspiration when I am trapped in there!!!

Feel free to share your spaces! I would love to see them!

Well for now I have a little writing to do before my daytime job, and I am currently reading a new book titled A bump in the road, by Maureen Lipinki so I will try and check out everyone's blogs later! I love to comment, just like I love your comments!!!!

Happy Blogging!

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

the terrifying too or to

I've noticed lately that when I'm writing I seem to have trouble when using To or Too, it seems that sometimes I use it incorrectly.

So I decided to fix this issue first hand. There are so many variations of words in the english language, and that makes nothing easy. However I will try and give the easiest explanation, so that from here on out I won't use it incorrectly. Maybe I will help a few friends along the way.

“To” is a preposition. It can be used when going towards something. “To the store” or “To bed.” Or, when your doing something in the direction of something or someone. “Speaking to your friend“, or “looking to the right“.

“To” is also used when you’re using a verb in the infinitive. “To go home“, or “to open the door.“

Now here comes an exception, which in the english language seems to be inevitable. To can be used at the end of a sentence if a verb is dropped. For example, you could have a conversation like this…… “do you need to stop?”, “no, not right now”, “OK, let me know if you need to”….

The verb stop was dropped at the end, so the sentence ends in to.

On the other hand, too means the same as also, so if you can substitute also at the end of a sentence then use too.

Too, can also mean excessively or more than enough, as in; “too hot” or “too big“.

So from now on I can always look at this post in teaching myself when too or to is most appropriate, and if I helped a few others along the way then I am glad! This was more of a tip I needed and since I took the time to figure it out, I figured why not post it!

Happy Blogging!

Monday, February 1, 2010

HAPPY MONDAY!


I recieved to wonderful awards from two wonderful bloggers!!! One is from Natalie from Sound of Rain she was kind enough to award me with The Creative Writer Award! Thank you so much Natalie! You are fabulous, and for those of you who have yet to check out her blog check it out!!! I am super excited to share this 5 follwers who I believe are super creative!!!

1. B.J. Anderson - Who doesn't love twinkies!!!
2. Alissa at Slightly More than Dirt - love your posts!
3. Caroline at Caroline by Line always has excellent things to say!
4. Terresa at the Chocolate Chip Waffle - who wouldn't love the title alone? However she is so much more! You must check her out!!
5. Pam at Woven with Pixie Dust - Amazing blog, stories, and thoughts, I love to read her stuff!!!

Thanks again to Natalie, and Congratulations to the followers above!



My second award is just as special and it comes from magically ordinary who awarded me with the Sunshine Award!! For those of you who have yet to check out her blog you must do so now!!! Thank you so much! These awards are amazing, and I am honored that you chose me!!!

I would like to share this award with Kristin Rae at Kristin Creative because she always has fantastic things to share!!!

I believe that Stef at 52 Weeks of Wordage also deserves this award because she always puts a smile on my face! One of the many blogs I look forward to reading each day!

Michelle at Southern City Mysteries - She always keeps me happily intrigued!

Last but not least I would like to award Summer from and this time concentrate this award, she is fantastic!! And I can't help but love her! She loves Criminal Minds just like I do!!!


Michelle at Beautiful Chaos awarded me and several others with the Silver lining award! She is fantastic as is her blog, so you must check her out when you get the chance!!!!

So for anyone who doesn't have this one yet... please feel free to take it for yourself!!! You all deserve it!!!

So thanks again for the amazing awards!! And Congratulations to all the winners!!! I am honored!!

Also don't forget I am having a contest for having 100 followers!!! You will receive a $10 e-gift card for Amazon.com so check out the link on my sidebar!!

mondays writing on the wall


Two ideas I am working on...

One Story:
A collector he was, the paintings on the trees cared for with pride. The images burned into her mind. Closing her eyes made her relive it over and over. Nathan stood at the foot of the bed concerned as he faced her. She'd met him shortly after her kidnapping and together they've tried to piece the story together. It had been three months and they were no closer to finding him. Her description had been detailed, the places she visited were real, but no trace of Casey and the collector.

Two Story:
Natalie stared at the front door. The Parkers all piled in, Their life hadn't changed, their cares remained the same, excpet now Natalie had been invited in. She knew they were kind, well she at least felt that way, the thought though of possibly altering their lives did upset her. Right now she had nowhere to go and at this point no idea who she was. She inched closer to the door, once she would cross the barrier it would be real, was she ready for that?

Just a few ideas I have been working on!!