Stacy Henrie, Author

Confessions of a Chocoholic

2012-02-29T05:00:00.001-07:00

If a sweet tooth can be genetically passed on, then my love of chocolate is an inherited trait from my paternal grandmother. Frequently, when we'd make the trip to visit her, we'd pick up some chocolate frozen custard for her (and us) to enjoy. If we wanted a treat or dessert for grandma, we knew she'd most enjoy the chocolate ones. And I'm the same way.

In my humble opinion a dessert is not a dessert unless it is partially or wholly made up of this delectable ingredient, but it has to be the right kind. I don't mean like European vs. American chocolate, though I do appreciate the creaminess of the chocolate from across the ocean. I'm really not a big chocolate candy or bar fan. I much prefer something with real chocolate substance like gooey brownies with ice cream, fresh-baked cookies or moist cake.

But if we're out of the good stuff, then I may slightly lower my chocolate expectations to include hot fudge a la mode, or lower them further still to snitch a piece of candy from the kids' stash. I will admit to even pilfering chocolate chips in times of a chocolate famine.

Are you a chocoholic? If so, what type of chocolate do you prefer? What's your favorite dessert?

*Picture from here.

Clearing Out the Clutter - Most of the Time

2012-02-22T05:00:00.001-07:00

I am not a hoarder - quite the opposite. I love to get rid of things I'm not using or don't need: clothes, household items, papers, etc. There's constantly a box in my basement for goodwill items. Once I take them to the store, it's not long before I start another box.

For me, there's something thrilling about organizing a drawer or closet or space and purging out what isn't necessary or useful. My husband jokes when I get into organizing mode that the rest of the family should watch out or Mom might organize them all out of the house.

Interestingly this need to organize and purge doesn't apply to the various manuscripts on my hard drive. And thank goodness for that! As I was going through my edits the other week, I found a spot where my editor felt one chapter ended too abruptly. She wanted me to add more to the scene. To my relief - and luck - I found a continuation of that scene, which I'd written about five years ago and kept on my computer - just in case. Having that scene already written made it easy to rework and plug it into the spot I needed it. So, as much as it pains me to say, there are times when it's good to keep a little clutter around.

Are you a hoarder or are you all about clearing out the clutter (a get-ridder)? What things are easy to let go of? What things are harder?

*Photo from here.

I Heart These . . .

2012-02-15T05:00:00.002-07:00

In the wake of Valentine's Day, I thought I'd share some love - movie love that this. My husband and I love watching movies and quoting movies. We even had a tradition going to watch Out of Africa every year, though that sort of fizzled out - why that movie, I don't really know, especially since it's very sad and long.

But here's Five Movies I Love to Watch Again and Again.

1. Dan in Real Life

2. Confessions of a Shopaholic

3. Persuasion

4. North and South

5. The Bourne Identity (see, they aren't all romance movies!)

What movie(s) could you watch over and over? What's your favorite type of movie?

*Pictures from here, here, here, here and here.

To Borrow or Buy - That is the Question!

2012-02-08T05:00:00.001-07:00

In high school I worked at a large city library. I checked in books from the drop box, put books away on the shelves - I used to be able to carry quite a large stack at once - and did the dreaded shelf reading to make sure things were in order - the nonfiction sections were the worst. I even contemplated being a librarian as a career.

To this day, I still love libraries - all those shelves with seemingly endless possibilities for what to read. And my local library is fantastic. If there's a book I want and they don't have it, I can send a request via their website and they always get it in quickly.

I will on occasion buy/or order books to own, but largely, I get my reading material from the library. I've discovered some favorite authors from books I randomly selected from the shelves - authors who's books I've gone on to buy, whose future books I'll be watching for.

What about you? Are you more likely to buy a book or borrow one from the library? Have you ever asked your library to get a particular book for you?

*Photo from here.

Ninja Novel Conference

2012-02-03T05:00:00.001-07:00

I'm popping in today to tell you about a FREE and AWESOME online writers conference going on tomorrow, Saturday, February 4th. It's NiNoCon. Check out all the event info here. There's stuff going on from 11:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. (EST).

Conflict is Key

2012-02-01T05:00:00.001-07:00

When I started writing my first book - sort of my pre-draft - I was sure I didn't need conflict. I would have a nice, lovely story without all the angst - characters happily would go about their business. Thankfully I wised up to the importance of conflict and wrote a story rife with it - fires, attempted kidnapping, illness, death, loss of home and wealth, unrequited love.

Because a story without conflict is boring, meaningless, with little power to draw us in.

I once attended a writers class where the instructor talked about what made successful books and movies. He believed the key was the way these books and movies upped the stress levels in readers and viewers, taking their stress above their current level, then resolving that stress at the end. Good conflict creates that vicarious stress and resolution, sucking us into the story and keeping us caring about these fictional characters.

One of my favorite tv shows that does a fantastic job with conflict (especially interpersonal/relationships) and upping those stress levels is Masterpiece Theater's Downton Abbey. It's about the lives of a wealthy, titled family in England during WWI and the lives of their servants. After this last episode - full of relationship strife, war, death, impediments to love and dreams - I told my husband what a big mess things had become for the characters.

And we love it. We have to keep watching until that stress is resolved. We're drawn in. We care about these people.

Have you watched Downton Abbey? What are your favorite types of conflict in books or movies (physical, internal, familial)? What other movies/tv shows or books are examples of good conflict?

*Photo from here and here.

A True Bait & Switch

2012-01-25T05:00:00.001-07:00

When I married my wonderful husband more than ten years ago, he didn't count calories or diet. He didn't regularly exercise or opt for healthy foods. And I was great with that. I've never enjoyed exercising myself, except for the occasional walk or bike ride, and the thought of counting calories was laughable. We were in sync.

Fast forward to last month when my husband pulled a bait and switch on me! Not only did he start exercising regularly and counting calories, but he became what I fondly call "plant man" because of all the veggies he's consuming.

He never insisted I join him in his new choices, but being the competitive person that I am, I couldn't let him be the only healthy one. So I started exercising regularly and longer (on our stationary bike) and eating more veggies than I ever thought possible and being more cognizant of what I'm eating. And though it does pain me to admit it, I've liked the changes in us both. We are in sync.

Have you always enjoyed exercising? Who helps keep you motivated in living healthy? What's your favorite thing to do to get moving?

*Photo from here.

The Post I've Waited Seven Years to Write!

2012-01-18T05:00:00.002-07:00

Before my blog, before I knew how long and tough this road might be, before I began seriously writing, I dreamed of one day writing and publishing a book.

That dream will become a reality in September of this year when my book will be published by Harlequin's Love Inspired Historical.

This weekend has been a whirlwind, to say the least. I received an offer from Harlequin and now have the fabulous Jessica Alvarez of BookEnds, LLC as my agent. I couldn't be more excited for both!

I want to share my journey getting to this point because I love reading other people's stories, but it's hard to know where to start.

Back in 2004, after the birth of my first son, when I decided to write my first novel? Back in 2007, when I finished writing this story that will become my first published book? Maybe back in 2010 when I went to my first national conference and an agent requested the full manuscript of this book? That was really when I realized I had a viable, fun story.

All of those would work as beginnings - certainly as stepping stones to this point - but I'll save time and fast-forward to 2011 when I entered a pitch contest for Love Inspired Historical. (I wrote about it here.) I was one of six winners selected to do an online chat, and they requested the full manuscript. Though there were things they liked, initially they passed, mostly because my hero was too perfect.

So I took a chance and wrote them back to ask if they would read the manuscript again if I fixed my hero. To my surprise and delight, I got a "yes" response. That began a seven-week task of revising before I sent the manuscript off again.

Then I waited, hoping, wondering what they thought. Last Friday, I got my answer. Harlequin wanted to publish my book. I told my editor it was the best Friday the 13th I'd ever had!

In addition to the sort of dazed state I'm walking around in this week, I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for the many people who have lent support to my writing over the years - chiefly, my husband and my Father in Heaven. Thanks to all of you - including my blog friends here - for taking this journey with me!

What good things have you experienced lately? What fills you up with gratitude?

*Photo from here.

A Second Try

2012-01-11T05:00:00.001-07:00

I heard a quote in church on Sunday about courage that I'm still thinking about today and hope to remember often. Normally when I think of courage I think of doing something hard but doing it bravely - like David vs. Goliath or me traveling alone to England (blogged about that here) or my husband starting his own business or my kids conquering worry or playing in a piano recital for the first time.

While each of these show courage, I learned this last weekend we're also showing courage when we have to make a second try at something. When we stretch toward our goal and don't quite meet it, but decide we're going to make a second attempt tomorrow.

I don't typically think of myself as a courageous person, so this idea of showing courage through second tries was eye-opening. How many times in my life have I made a second attempt at something? Like trying out for the ballroom team multiple times and finally making it in college. Or becoming pregnant after losing a baby. Or sending out another query after a rejection. Or getting up each day and attempting to parent a little better than I did the day before.

This idea of courage is so positive, so deliberate, and best of all, so doable. It's more than gritting my teeth and "sticking it out." It's making a conscious decision to try again, and again, and again. It's realizing we are and can be courageous not just in the big things, but in the every day things too.

Do you like this definition of courage? What in your life have you courageously attempted a second (or third or twelfth) time to reach your goal? What experiences have helped you gain courage?

*Photo from here.

Straight from the Horse's Mouth

2012-01-04T05:00:00.001-07:00

I won't be talking about New Year's resolutions today - though I did actually make them this year and they're all MEASURABLE, which I'm pretty stoked about. Instead I'm talking about animals.

By and large, I am not an animal-lover. I like cats and bunnies, and that's about it. I believe some of this dislike stems from watching too many tear-jerker movies as a kid involving the tragedies and triumphs of every animal imaginable. (The dog ones were the worst.)

When it comes to horses, the main contributor to my disinterest is one too many bad horseback riding experiences. Nearly every family vacation growing up involved us signing up for a horseback ride. There was the time we were led to believe we'd be galloping along the beach in Hawaii, only to experience about five minutes of riding on the sand and the rest in weeds about as tall as the horses. Another time the horses brought on a bout of allergies.

Our final horseback riding adventure as a family, while in Mexico, didn't go well either. The memory burnt into my mind from that trip is FEAR as my horse maneuvered down the mountain of at what felt like a 90 degree angle.

The irony in all of this is that the man I married trained race horses for several years. He likes horses, has worked with horses, knows how to ride horses. The other ironic thing is that I write historical romances set in the West where people rode - and often adored - horses. Thank goodness for my critique group or the horses in my last book wouldn't even have had names!

Maybe I should enlist my husband's help in creating a positive horseback riding experience. Or maybe I'm content to look at horses from a far and stick to writing fiction where animals and people live in harmony - or pretty close.

Are you an animal-lover or not? If not, why not? Have you ever been horseback riding? Do you like movies/books centered around animals/pets?

*Come "like" my new writer page on Facebook!
**Photo from here.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-21T05:00:00.001-07:00

Christmas 1984 - San Diego, California
With my unicorn and a My Little Pony castle

Wishing all of you the child-like magic and wonder of Christmas! Thank you for making this such a great blogging year. I've loved getting to know new friends and learning more about each of you. I can't wait to continue the journey in 2012. Happy Holidays!

What's been your favorite thing about blogging this year? What's your favorite Christmas memory/toy from your childhood?

Mommy Failed-it/Mommy Nailed-it

2011-12-14T05:00:00.001-07:00

My five-year-old told me last Friday he hadn't received a Christmas candy-gram at school (parents and friends can buy a candy-cane and send it to a student) while one of his friends got three. I'd forgotten about the candy-grams and told him we'd see if they were still doing it this week. Unfortunately we learned Monday the candy gram event was over. My son ran to his room, heartbroken. We tried consoling him by telling him that they do the same thing at Valentine's Day, but he said that was too far away. Mommy Failed-it.

That same night, out of the blue, my seven-year-old asked me, "So how's your book going?" I told him what I'd been working on lately. "Are you going to publish it?" he asked. "That's what Mom's trying to do," I said. He replied, "That'd be cool to get the book." Then he asked this insightful question, "Has anybody said 'yes, it's good?'" Mommy Nailed-it.

Okay, so I can't really take credit for this, but I appreciated his excitement and was pleasantly surprised at his grasp of the situation. Where I feel like I nailed it as a mom is I didn't have to tell him I'd quit or I wasn't doing that anymore. I was able to tell him I was still working toward my dreams.

After a conversation with my hubby earlier that day, I realized how often I site my Mommy Fail moments - or the other things I'm not doing or getting right - but that's easy. Anybody can write a list a mile long of the things they aren't doing or getting wrong. It's much harder to think of and REMEMBER the Mommy Nailed-it moments, the things I do right. And that is what I am going to focus on - now and this coming year.

What are some of your Mommy Nailed-it moments? What do you do to avoid focusing on what you haven't accomplished? Do you think the toddler in the photo above is trying to say,"Mom, you failed it" or "Mom, you nailed it"?

*Photo from here.

Curing My Stress

2011-12-07T05:00:00.003-07:00

Last week was crazy - the flu bug we had a couple weeks ago made a slight return along with a dose of coughs/colds. All adding up to STRESS for this mom. But no worries, I found me some great stress cures over the weekend.

First, I got to hang out with my good friend and critique partner Ali Cross at the launch of her YA novel BECOME. And since I brought my second son along, I got a mini-date too. The party was incredibly fun. Ali's main character Desi rocks in the ninja-moves department and so there were karate shows and a sweet bow-staff demonstration at the launch. My son and I had a great time.

Second, I went shopping by myself that night. What made this even more blissful, besides being in my own little cocoon of quiet as I roamed the store at will, was I told myself I wasn't going to get all the Christmas shopping done in one night so I just needed to enjoy the time to myself and do what I could/felt like. And I did.

Third, I bought myself a chocolate treat - the good Swiss kind. These Toblerone chocolates with nuts are delicious and can be found at most grocery stores.

All in all, positive outlook was restored, stress levels were contained, and thankfully the sickies are all on the mend!

What do you do to turn around a bad day/week? What keeps your stress levels down?

*Photo from here.

Keepin the Season Simple

2011-11-30T05:00:00.001-07:00

I love the Christmas season - the decorations, the anticipation, the magic, the remembrance of the birth of Christ. But I do tend to get overwhelmed with all the preparations. Here's a few tricks I've picked up over the years that help simplify the season for me:

1. I put up my Christmas decorations the day after Thanksgiving. Since the kids are out of school and the hubby's off work, it's a great time to deck the halls and put up the tree (yes, it's artificial - and I'm okay with that). That way this part of the season is completed early and we can enjoy it longer.

2. I try to purchase gifts (with some exceptions) in the order they're needed. If my husband's family's party isn't until after Christmas, then I don't need to stress about those gifts right now.

3. We have several holiday activities that have become tradition for our family. But some of these, like going to see Christmas lights, can actually be done early on in the month to free up time later for other fun things.

4. I don't mail out Christmas cards - I know, shame on me. Instead I digitally scrapbook a card with our pictures and e-mail it to those on our list.

5. Since it's sometimes hard to feel the holiday spirit during all the prep, I try to make time for things that sweeten the season for me, like watching holiday movies, playing Christmas music on the piano, and finding ways to reach outside myself.

What things do you do to simplify the busyness of the season? What holiday traditions do you and your family have? What is one of your favorite things about this time of year?

*Photo from here.

Grateful for the Ride

2011-11-23T05:00:00.002-07:00

Two weeks ago I blogged about some of the things I'm grateful for here - like family and electricity. But I thought of one I didn't mention. Today I'm grateful for my writing journey.

Over the weekend I decided to document my experiences since I started seriously writing seven years ago. As I wrote down the things I've done in that time, I realized how much I've grown as a writer and as a person. I'm thankful for this journey thus far, even though I still have dreams/goals I haven't yet accomplished.

Some people say this business is like riding a roller coaster, but I think being on a Ferris wheel is more apt of a comparison. In the past seven years, there have been times of soaring height, times of plummeting lows, and times of waiting - either at the top or the bottom of the ride.

One of my favorite songs - The Middle by Jimmy Eat World - says it best. Here are some of the lyrics:

Hey, don't write yourself off yet
It's only in your head you feel left out
Or looked down on
Just do your best, do everything you can.
And don't you worry what the bitter hearts, are gonna say

It just takes some time, little girl in the middle of the ride
Everything, everything will be just fine
Everything, everything it'll be alright

This year, in addition to all the other things I'm grateful for, I'm also thankful for this ride - and that I chose to hop on. Happy Thanksgiving!

What are you most grateful for as a writer - whatever stage you're in? What would you tell yourself if you could go back to when you started seriously writing? What have you learned along the way?

Giveaway Winner!

2011-11-17T05:00:00.012-07:00

Thanks to everyone who entered the BECOME giveaway yesterday. The winner is . . . Vivien! Congrats.

If you didn't win, you can still purchase BECOME - either the paperback or Kindle version - at Amazon here. The weekend's just around the corner - have a great one!

Ali Cross and a BECOME giveaway!

2011-11-16T05:00:00.002-07:00

Last week my husband was out of town for four days, which meant holding down the fort here solo. For me that's tough, but to complicate things further, my youngest son got the flu - around midnight the first night my DH was gone. While the next day was tough, dealing with a sick child and very little sleep on top of everything else, I was reminded once again that I can do hard stuff. I made it through the week and came out stronger for it.

A lovely woman who's gone through tough stuff and come out on the other side stronger than ever is my good friend and critique partner Ali Cross. I met Ali three and a half years ago when our critique group formed and I've had the chance to watch her journey to publication. It hasn't been an easy road - she's had to keep going when open doors have suddenly closed. But I've seen firsthand how Ali chose to use these experiences to better herself and her writing.

Not only is Ali a phenomenal writer - often lyrical in style - she is also multi-talented. She's been an opera singer and runs the writing dojo at her blog with lots of information and help for writers. She's also a loyal friend and has a snappy wit.

Last but not least, her YA novel BECOME released last week! It is well-written and is a fabulous story about choice and not letting one's past dictate the future. To celebrate, I'm giving away the e-version of her book today. To win, leave a comment on this post. The giveaway will close at 10:00 p.m. MST tonight and I'll announce the winner tomorrow.

Sixteen-year old Desolation Black wants nothing more than to stay in Hell where it’s cold and lonely and totally predictable. Instead, she’s sent back to Earth where she must face the evil she despises and the good she always feared. When Desi is forced to embrace her inner demon, she assumes her choice has been made—that she has no hope of being anything other than what her father, Lucifer, has created her to be. What she doesn’t count on, is finding a reason to change—something she’s never had before—a friend.

How have your friends inspired you? What tough things in your life have shown you that you are stronger than you think?

*Check out these other ways to win BECOME!
On these blogs:
Thursday, November 17: LT Elliot
Friday, November 18: Nichole Giles

On Twitter:
Thursday, November 17 - 4 pm PST, 7 pm Eastern
Friday, November 18 - 3 pm MST, 5 pm Eastern
We'll be chatting with the hashtag #BECOME so join in for your chance to mix and mingle and win!

Or through this Google form.

Feelin' Thankful

2011-11-09T05:00:00.001-07:00

Last week Abby Fowers over at Something to Write About awarded me the Versatile Blogger award. Thanks, Abby! I need to share seven things, and being November and a few weeks before Thanksgiving, I thought I'd share seven things I'm grateful for today.

1. I'm grateful for my DH. Though he's not a writer or even a real reader (I joke that of the two books he reads annually, one is usually a manuscript of mine), he's got a sharp eye for what works and his help has been invaluable.

2. I'm grateful for the three little people who call me "Mom."

3. I'm grateful for heat and electricity. My thoughts and prayers go out to those who've been without both recently.

4. I'm grateful my favorite TV show Chuck is on again and that my famine from reading will soon be quenched by the pile of books on my bedside table.

5. I'm grateful my sister-in-law sees to it that we have some sort of chocolate dessert at the family Thanksgiving.

6. I'm grateful some radio stations have chosen NOT to start playing Christmas music yet.

7. Lastly, I'm grateful for friends who get where I'm coming from.

Speaking of friends, a good friend of mine Ali Cross is launching the release of her YA novel BECOME this Friday! Check out her blog for all sorts of cool things associated with the launch.

What are you feeling grateful for today? What good things are happening in your life? Are you a fan of Christmas music before December 1st?

I'm passing the Versatile blog award on to:
Kim at Confessions of a Bibliophile
The gals (Angela, Sara, and Amy) over at Live to Write . . . Edit When Necessary
Loree Huebner

*Photo from here.

Never Too Old to Try

2011-11-02T05:00:00.001-06:00

My third year of college I signed up for a beginning ballet class. I took ballet when I was ten or so and enjoyed it. Then my family moved and I never did start up again. During the ensuing years, I wondered if it was a talent I should have pursued. Hence the college class ten years later.

Dreams of being a prima ballerina were quickly dashed. It's one thing to parade around in a leotard at ten and something ENTIRELY different to do so at age 20 in a room full of my peers. Needless to say, after the class was over, I shelved that dream. But it was okay. If I hadn't tried it again, I might have always wondered.

After the birth of my first child, I decided to try my hand at another dream - writing a novel. I learned as I wrote, so that first book took me a year and a half to write. That's a lot of time to devote to a dream, but unlike my college ballet experience, I realized I could be a writer and I loved it!

My DH and I have been watching The X Factor USA. One of the 12 finalists is a 60-year-old man named Leroy Bell. He has an amazing voice, but he's always been the opening act for other popular singers. Now he's trying to make a name for himself. Watching him find success on this show has been a great reminder to me that you're never too old to pursue your dreams and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Some dreams may not end up being the right fit for you, like ballet for me, but at least you tried and won't always wonder. Other dreams, though, might just surprise you, if given a chance.

What dreams have you pursued in adulthood? What things did you do as a kid that you wouldn't dare do as an adult? Have you watched The X Factor? If so, who are you rooting for?

*Photos from here and here.

Life Unplugged

2011-10-26T05:00:00.004-06:00

We drove to Bear Lake this weekend for the kids' fall break. My DH's grandma has a cabin up there. The weather was cool but pleasant and the view was gorgeous - can't beat azure blue water surrounded by red and gold fall leaves.

I'm always interested to see how the kids, and us as a family, do sans computer, Wii, and Internet, since the cabin doesn't have any of these. While we did watch TV together, we also played Monopoly and hide-and-go-seek, went for walks and to the park, and had fun outside and by the water. My hubby and the boys also went golfing and on mini-adventures while my daughter slept and I revised one of my manuscripts. It was a nice break.

Now that we're back to "normal life" with all its technology, homework, housework, jobs, church responsibilities etc., I want to find ways to incorporate that simpler, unplugged time at the cabin into our lives here. [My kids apparently had this down yesterday :) - as I wrote this, they'd clogged the stairs with pillows, blankets and couch cushions and were having a hey-day riding down it!] Ah - the simple things.

What's your favorite thing to do on family vacations? How do you maintain balance between all those technological devices and living life? What tricks do you have for keeping things simple?

*Picture from here.

What's on Your Nightstand?

2011-10-19T05:00:00.002-06:00

The books on my nightstand tend to be inspirational historicals since that's what I write. But every so often, I get in the mood for a funny, contemporary romance. I recently discovered Beth Pattillo's Jane Austen-based novels and they totally fit the bill!

I've read Mr. Darcy Broke My Heart and The Dashwood Sisters Tell All. If I had to choose, I'd say the latter was my favorite. Each book is based around one of Jane Austen's books and some aspect of her life. The characters are flawed but lovable, the romance is clean but exciting, and the conflict is superb. And of course, you've got the underlying humor throughout.

What books are on your nightstand? What genre(s) do you tend to read most? What book or author have you recently discovered that you're excited about?

*Pictures are from here and here.

Life Lessons Learned Abroad

2011-10-12T05:00:00.001-06:00

After completing junior college in Idaho, I signed up for a study abroad that would travel to Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, Belgium and France. I was so excited - I'd wanted to visit England for so long.

Then I lost my passport - right before I was supposed to leave. We looked everywhere but couldn't find it. I went to the airport on the day the group was to depart (without me) and talked to the directors. Once I got my new passport, I would fly alone to Ireland, and the group would pick me up at the airport in Dublin. But I would miss the first three days of the trip.

I was very anxious about flying alone and getting where I needed to. There was a moment of panic in the Atlanta airport when I came to the tram that takes you to the other terminals and I didn't know where to go. Thankfully I made it to Dublin and the group picked me up right on time. The only parts of Ireland I saw, beyond the airport, were from the bus window, but I also missed the trip's worst accommodations by coming late.

Even though the start of the trip went much differently than I'd expected, I had an incredible time and made new friends. Best of all, that experience of traveling alone, helped prepare me for later opportunities when I would have to get out of my comfort zone and figure things out. In that way, losing that passport was a blessing in disguise.

Life is all about rolling with the punches, finding the good in spite of things not meeting our expectations, discovering those less-than-obvious blessings among the challenges.

Would traveling to a new place by yourself excite or frighten you? What are some of your vacation mishaps? What helps you remember the goodness in your life, despite the craziness or the missed expectations?
*This post is similar to one I shared last year.
**Photo from here.

A Few of My Favorite Things (the autumn version)

2011-10-05T05:00:00.002-06:00

I love fall - not just because of the changing leaves or the relief from scorching summer - but because we have some great autumn memories and traditions that make this time of year my favorite.

1. My DH and I were married at the end of September and I really wanted a bridal picture with the fall leaves as background. So in order to get said picture, I hiked - in my wedding dress - up this mountain trail where the leaves had changed sooner than those in the valley. It was so worth it!

2. We love going as a family to one of the fall festivals in the area where the kids can ride on rides, shoot a corncob cannon, see farm animals or do a corn maze.

3. This past weekend we went up the canyon to have some family pictures taken. The mountain air was the perfect temperature, the gold and green colors were gorgeous, and the pizza we brought along for dinner tasted better than normal.

4. While I am not a Halloween-enthusiast, I do enjoy carving pumpkins and seeing my kids dressed up in their costumes.

5. My husband typically does some sort of canning or jam in the fall and I love to see the fruits of his labors (pictured above). He did peaches this year, and not only do they look amazing - they remind me of Autumn sunshine trapped in jars - but they taste terrific.

What are your favorite fall memories? What traditions do you celebrate this time of year?

Back Again!

2011-09-29T05:00:00.001-06:00

I'm guest bloggging for amazing writer, dear friend and crit partner Ali Cross for her Narley Ninja Thursday. Hop over there to read about how I stay grounded in life and writing! Have a great Fall day.

Perfectly Flawed

2011-09-28T05:00:00.003-06:00

I've realized the last while that I struggle with writing flawed male characters. I guess the reason may have something to do with my DH, who is a very easy-going guy. And while that is a fabulous combination for my high-strung personality, it doesn't translate well into fiction, where we want to see both the hero and heroine struggle. So I've been analyzing the male characters I've run across in books and movies and trying to determine what male character flaws I like best.

One of my favorites, portrayed so well by the character Mr. Thornton in the BBC adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell's North and South, is the hardened hero. The man who's past circumstances or rejections or both have made him a bit hard towards love, but over the course of the story, he softens toward love, toward the heroine (and in this movie that leads to one of the best kissing scenes ever!).

What are your favorite male character flaws (in books or movies)? What things are overdone? What would you like to see more of in fictional heroes?

Photo from here.

For Love of the Game

2011-09-21T05:00:00.002-06:00

I'm sort of known around our house - at least to my husband - as the game hater. As a kid and teenager, I dutifully played board games with friends and family (and even enjoyed it, for the most part). As an adult, though, I discovered I could actually say "no, thanks" when it came to games. I could opt out of playing and the world didn't careen out of control, nor did anyone hate me (I think). I still like to wield this particular tactic when it comes to strategy games - soooo not my favorite.

However, I am pleased to report that my anti-game phase is wearing off - a product of reluctantly joining in and then having a great time (the story of my life, for sure). While I still wouldn't choose playing a game over other activities like reading or watching a movie or going out to eat, I have rediscovered the fun of board games. My newest favorites are Apples to Apples, Telestrations, and the dice game Farkles.

What about you? Do you like playing board games? What are your favorites?

*Photo from here.

Growing Up

2011-09-14T05:00:00.001-06:00

In the Redwoods National Forest, my husband and I saw some amazing trees. Coastal redwoods are the tallest living thing on earth - the tallest being more than 360 feet. They live about 500-700 years on average, and some even live to be 2,000 years old.

While I'm in awe of these tree giants, if I were a tree, I'm pretty sure I wouldn't be a Redwood. I'm a let's just hurry up and grow a couple hundred feet in a week kind of girl, not a let's work and grow a little at a time for the next 1,000 years!

I want my book written and done by the weekend, I want to change for the better over night., I want to learn that new skill or concept in an hour. Slow, almost imperceptible growth is tough for me.

So I've decided instead of gazing up at the 100 feet or so of growth ahead of me, I'm going to pay more attention to how far I've come and trust the Master Gardener that inch by inch, year by year, I'll grow to His liking.

Do you find waiting easy? What have you done to learn patience? How do you look at your own growth?

*Photo from here

Makes Me Smile!

2011-09-07T05:00:00.005-06:00

1. Homemade loaves of wheat bread (courtesy of my husband)

2. Reading Little House in the Big Woods to my boys (they actually seem to enjoy it, while I'm reminded each time of why I love historicals)

3. Fixing my bike (I liked riding my bike pre-kids, so I'm excited to get back to doing it - now it's just figuring out when)

4. Seeing the word count go up even faster on my current manuscript now that I have a consistent time to write

5. Sunshine and nice breezes

6. Watching Phineas and Ferb with my kids (Every time I watch an episode, I can't help but either laugh or smile. One of my favorite lines is "Ferb and I wrote a twenty-eight volume science fiction swashbuckling historical romance tell-all potboiler mystery satire buddy cop adventure tragedy how-to action novel!")

What makes you smile lately? What do you do for exercise and how do you squeeze it in?

*Photo from here.

A Quick Hello!

2011-09-01T09:13:00.000-06:00

The fabulously sweet and talented Chantele Sedgwick interviewed me over on her blog today. You can check it out here.

And here's a picture from my Pacific Coast trip to inspire all sorts of calm and relaxation today - the weekend is almost in sight!

Heceta Lighthouse, Oregon

Battling the GPS

2011-08-31T05:00:00.001-06:00

My husband loves to use the GPS device on his phone, so when we went to the Oregon coast the other week, he opted to use that instead of paying for one in our rental car.

As we left the car place, the GPS lady began navigating our way. Though neither of us had been to Portland before, I was SURE Miss GPS had no idea what she was doing. She had us driving up small streets and through residential areas. I kept thinking we just need to get to the freeway - that would be the fastest way to get out of Portland and on our way to the coast.

After what seemed like a crazy list of directions, we eventually did reach the freeway and were on our way.
But that wasn't the only time the GPS lady led us through what I knew had to be the wrong way. Each time we ended up where we wanted to be, despite what felt like a series of odd turns and roads. (One time she was off by a quarter of a mile - and boy, did I gloat about that!)

So often in life and on this journey to publication, I feel like I did in the car listening to the GPS. I'm doing my best to follow God's will, but sometimes I think, "this can't be the right way. Isn't there a faster road, God, a more direct route to get me where I want to go, to what I want to be?"

But if I can stop and put aside that impatience, I realize no matter the twists and turns, the odd side roads, the detours, in the end I'll be right where I'm supposed to be - as long as I keep listening and moving forward.

Do use a GPS device for directions, stop and ask someone or just wing it? What detours or side roads in your life have brought about surprising success?

*Jenilyn M. Tolley awarded me the Liebster Award the other week (thanks so much, Jenilyn)! This award is meant to connect us even more and spotlight new bloggers who, at the moment, have less than 200 followers. The rules are:

1. Show your thanks to the blogger who gave you the award by linking back to them.

2.Reveal your top 5 picks and let them know by leaving a comment on their blog.
3.Post the award on your blog.
4.Bask in the love from the most supportive people on the Internet – other writers.
5.And best of all – have fun and spread the karma!

So here's five blogs I've enjoyed reading for a while or newly discovered:

Mark Noce
Peggy Eddleman
Rosslyn Elliott
Canda Mortensen
Kym McNabney

Lovin the Journey

2011-08-24T05:00:00.001-06:00

I know I've regaled you with a lot of travel stuff the past few months - like how many hours I've spent in the car so far this summer - but my DH and I just got back from a trip down the Pacific Coastal Highway and I'm bursting with blog ideas and pictures!

We flew to Portland, rented a car, and set out to see as much of the coast as we could in four and a half days. We drove more than 900 miles, from Oregon to Oakland (logging another 15 hours in the car), and we saw and did so many cool things.

As we were driving through the forest on our way to Tillamook from Portland, I realized we wouldn't be coming back this way since we were flying home from California. There wouldn't be another chance to enjoy the gorgeous scenery - this was it.

It hit me then how much Life is like that. We can't go back; we can't return to an earlier time. NOW is the time to enjoy where we are, whatever our season in life. When things get a little chaotic (especially with school starting for the kids yesterday) I'm trying to remind myself of this - to enjoy where I am right now.

How do you make the most of where you are in life right now? What helps you find joy in the journey?

*Thanks to everybody who entered the contest last week! It was so much fun to read your answers about the cleanliness or absence of it in your cars and what bizarre things you've got stowed away in them. :) The winners are Sarah Forgrave and Rosslyn Elliott. Congrats ladies! I'll send along your prizes today.

Time for a Giveaway!

2011-08-17T05:00:00.004-06:00

While my daughter and I were on a walk yesterday morning, we passed a parked car - an old Cadillac-looking type - that had a GIANT pine cone (see picture for size) sitting in the back window, which got me thinking about what stuff we have in our car.

To win one of two $15.00 Amazon e-gift cards, answer one of these questions in the comments: Are you currently storing something unusual in your car? Do you keep your car cleaner or messier than your house?

(Even though I'm kind of a neat freak, I'd have to say my house gets straightened way more often than my car does! At different times, the kids have had all sorts of little toys, feathers, and very old snacks stored in the various cubbies or crevices.)

The contest will close this Sunday, August 21st at midnight (MST) and I'll announce the two winners on my blog next Wednesday.

*Photo from here.

Hit the Road!

2011-08-10T05:00:00.001-06:00

My hubby and I have spent A LOT of time in the car the last while. Between our vacation to South Dakota, a funeral in Nevada, and another in Idaho, I think we've driven something like 40 hours in the past five weeks!

With all this driving I've realized there are a few things I need to manage long car trips. The two things I must have are the IPOD and gum, specifically Trident spearmint gum. Runners up would be snacks - not any particular kind, just something yummy to munch on - and occasionally Dramamine (Did I mention I get carsick riding passenger to the store?). I'm looking forward to sticking close to home this week - with no drives over 10 minutes!

What things are essential for you on a long drive? What's the most time you've ever spent in the car?

*Photo from here.

Remembering

2011-08-03T05:00:00.001-06:00

My 95-year-old grandmother passed away a week ago. Born in 1915, she lived during both world wars, the Great Depression, and all the advances in technology as well as raised six children.

She had a voracious appetite for reading, which I inherited, and would stay up very late to finish a book. Her hair was always strawberry blond, but just a year or two ago when we asked her where it came from (meaning who did she inherit it from), she said, "the kind that comes from a bottle." And I never knew!

As I've been thinking about her, I realize it isn't so much the things she accomplished or the places she lived that I remember but who she was as a person. Her faith, her quiet strength, her service, her unconditional love - those are the things she's left as her legacy. And while I hope my grandchildren will be able to one day say "Grandma was a published author," I hope, like my own grandmother, to pass on much more than what I did in life. I hope to pass on who I strived to be.

What traits or interests have you inherited from your parents or grandparents? What legacy do you want to pass on to future generations? What do you hope your children or grandchildren will say about you one day?

To Tweet or Not to Tweet

2011-07-27T05:00:00.001-06:00

I've been thinking (at least more seriously) the last while of joining Twitter. I've been reluctant in the past because I'm not sure how to squeeze one more thing into the schedule, but I'm leaning more in that direction and want to know your opinions.

If you are on Twitter, what do you like about it? What do you use it for? How much time do you devote to it?

If you aren't on Twitter - there are a few of us left, right? :) - what are your reasons for waiting to make the plunge?

*Photo from here

Great Expectations

2011-07-20T05:00:00.001-06:00

During Sunday dinner at my parents' house, my mom announced to my kids that she had a game for them. Clearly with high expectations for what the game might be, my oldest son said, "I hope you don't disappoint us!"

Subconsciously I think the same thing when I start reading a book. I have expectations (sometimes high ones) and I'm hoping the book won't disappoint.

Recently I started a new book with high hopes - loved the cover, the concept, the characters - but sadly I was disappointed after the first chapter. The more I read the more I became aware of the author's device for avoiding overused actions like stared or smiled. While this can be a good thing, in this case, it led to overwriting. Because the actions were so well described or lengthy, I found myself constantly being pulled out of the story.

On the flip side, I recently re-read Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larson. This book doesn't disappoint - even the second time around. The writing is concise and powerful. The historical details lend to the story, not overshadow it. And best of all, there's a little romance. My favorite books are ones like this - ones where I fall effortlessly into the story.

What do love about the books you love? What disappoints you in a book?

*Photo from here

Flash Fiction Blogfest

2011-07-15T05:00:00.005-06:00

The rules for Ali's flash fiction blogfest were to write 250 words or less about something unexpected that occurs on Independence Day. Since I can't write short stories to save my life, I resorted to my PR background and wrote a very cheesy, "fictional" news article. It even has a picture. For those familiar with The Onion, this is the kind of article you might find there. Enjoy!

“UTTER” CATASTROPHE MARS MOUNT RUSHMORE

MYSTERY COW HEAD APPEARS OVERNIGHT

Rapid City, South Dakota, July 4, 2011 – Workers at Mount Rushmore National Monument were startled Monday morning to discover a giant cow head carved into the rock beside the four presidents. No one can account for how the gaffe came to be.

“I’ve never seen anything so bovine in my life,” an unnamed night guard said. “Who wants to watch Fourth of July fireworks coming up over the head of a cow?”

Local cattle spokesman, Hugh Heifer, defended the position of the mystery sculptors. “I don’t know who they are,” Heifer said. “But if I did, I would applaud their expression of patriotism. Cattle have played an integral role in the history of this great country and the artists clearly felt this would best show that.”

Much debate has been sparked regarding what to do with the cow head. Some argue for blasting it off, though there is concern of how that might affect the rest of the monument. Others believe the new addition should stay, a tribute to the bullheadedness and hard work of unknown artists.

“In the end, being Independence Day,” Heifer said, “whether you’re a cattle lover or not, there's no reason not to celebrate until the cows come home!”

Trip Take-Aways and an Award

2011-07-13T05:00:00.012-06:00

My longtime friend Becki, who's also a writer, passed on this award (thanks, Becki!). Instead of sharing seven random facts about myself, though, I thought I'd share seven Trip Take-Aways from our recent vacation to South Dakota.

1. The Black Hills are beautiful. I couldn't get over all the green and the trees.

2. Parts of Wyoming can be beautiful too.

3. Technology is heaven-sent for long trips in the car. My older two watched movies with headphones, I listened to my I-POD with headphones while I drove, and my daughter got to listen to a lullaby channel on my DH's phone!

4. Knowing someone who lives (or has been to) our destination meant seeing things regular tourists might miss. Like this church in Rapid City - it's an exact replica of one in Norway.

5. I can do hard things. I know I've said this before, but I keep running into this lesson. I was terrified (nearly couldn't sleep the night before) about driving so far with a toddler. But we did it. And now that the long drive is behind us, it's amazing how other trips now seem much more manageable.

6. I can enjoy the journey - as much as reaching the destination. Because of car sickness, I was the main driver to and from South Dakota. But I really enjoyed listening to my music and watching the scenery (and discovering a new book idea).

7. Seeing Mount Rushmore in person was worth it.

Is there a destination you've visited that surprised you with how beautiful or fun it was? What's the best vacation you've been on? Is there a certain place you return to every year?

The other part of accepting this award is passing it on to five others. So here are five people who's blogs have brought "sweetness" to my life:

Jessica R. Patch
Sarah Forgrave
Terri Tiffany
Wendy Paine Miller
Sara V. Olds

*Check back here on Friday - I'm participating in Ali Cross's flash fiction blogfest.

Back to Reality

2011-07-06T05:00:00.001-06:00

We're back today from our fab summer trip to South Dakota - with plenty of laundry, exhaustion, fun memories and blog ideas in tow.

What fun things did you do this week? What fun things are you going to do? How many days does it take to recoup from vacation? :)

*Photo from here

Flecks of Gold

2011-06-29T05:00:00.001-06:00

There's a story of a young man who sold all his possessions and left Boston in 1849 to join the California gold rush. He worked hard, but all he ever found were rocks. One day an old prospector came by and commented on the large pile of rocks the young man had collected.

The man complained that he hadn't found any gold. To this the old prospector took two of the rocks and smashed them together. He showed the young man the flecks of gold inside.

"But I want the big nuggets like the ones in that pouch of yours," the young man said.

The prospector handed over his pouch. When the young man looked inside, he found it was full of gold flecks. The old prospector had made a fortune out of the small, seemingly insignificant flakes of gold.

Too often in my efforts to parent and publish and serve and grow, I discount the little flecks of gold because I'm looking for the big nuggets. I forget that the patient accumulation of hundreds of gold flecks - a moment of laughter with my kids, getting a full manuscript request, bringing a smile to some one's face, adjusting a negative attitude - amounts to quite a fortune indeed.

What are the gold flecks in your life this week? Why do we disregard our small efforts/accomplishments for something bigger? What "fortunes" have you discovered in your life from seemingly small efforts?

*Photo from here

It's Done!

2011-06-22T05:00:00.001-06:00

After twelve weeks, our basement project is FINISHED. Instead of one big room, we now have a storage room (that's the door you see), bedroom/office and large pantry closet.

We worked like crazy to get it done this weekend - putting away everything we'd been storing in the garage and taking a load of things to goodwill that we'd hung onto.

And how did I celebrate the completion of this project? I did more organizing. Why can't I take a moment to relax and celebrate? Something to put on my to-do list. :)

What are your current projects? What things have you finished lately? How did you celebrate?

Just to Make You Laugh

2011-06-15T05:00:00.001-06:00

We were at a barbecue last night and one of the guys there had some Chinese candy from work. My boys tried some, and then my second son came over and quietly asked me: "Does eating that candy make you speak in Chinese?" I laughed and laughed!

What funny things have your kids said or done lately? What's been a LOL moment for you? What ethnic candy/food would you love to eat and instantly be able to speak that language (me: a tie between French and Italian)?

*Photo from here

Never Give Up

2011-06-10T05:00:00.002-06:00

I mentioned in my last post about my boys' entrepreneur spirit, selling Popsicles to the neighborhood kids. They enjoyed it so much that the next day, loaded with more goodies my DH bought them to sell, they tried again. But this time they had no customers. When I helped my oldest son move his table closer to home, I asked him if he wanted to take a break. He replied, "No. I'm not giving up!"

Not too long after that, they had a little crowd around their stand and ended up selling much more than they had the day before. It was a great reminder to me of how much we can learn from our kids.

Another person who's inspired me with her "don't give up" attitude is my good friend and critique partner Elana Johnson. I had the opportunity to attend her launch party here in Utah Wednesday night for her book Possession. The evening was fun, funny, and inspiring.

Elana recalled how she'd been on the other side of the podium numerous times, watching other authors speak. But Wednesday night she was behind the podium, giving her own speech about her book. Knowing the obstacles she's faced on this journey, I am in awe of her determination not to give up and all that she's been able to accomplish. She's taught me to keep going, keep reaching, keep believing.

What people have inspired you in your life to never give up on yourself or your dreams? What helps you keep going when discouragement sets in?

Summer Plans

2011-06-08T05:00:00.004-06:00

1. Going to South Dakota next month to visit friends and see one of the wonders of the World.

2. Hoping to get up to Bear Lake at some point. This is one of our favorite places to vacation here in Utah.

3. Writing more on my work in progress - I think I've found some of the joy again.

4. Watching some America's Got Talent and The Voice.

5. Reading. I have about 350 pages to go of 1,037 until I finish Gone With the Wind! Next in line is That Certain Spark by Cathy Marie Hake and She Walks In Beauty by Siri Mitchell (if I can squeeze in another reading before book club at my house).

6. Enjoying our summer schedule but also the moments of spontaneity. Like my boys selling Popsicles with their friends to passersby today.

7. Last, but definitely not least, celebrating Simon and Schuster's release of Possession written by my good friend and critique partner Elana Johnson! This sci-fi young adult book is a fun, fast-paced read about a controlling society and how far you'd go for what you believe in.

(Here's me with my brand new, store-bought copy!)

There are all sorts of cool things happening with the release of this book. Check out the Possession fan site, and mark your calendars for the Virtual Launch Party on June 16th at 7:00 p.m. MST. (More info to follow on the fan site and on Elana's blog.) Elana will be answering questions LIVE about herself and her book!

What are your summer plans? Any great tips for traveling LONG distances with kiddos (particularly one under two years of age)?

*Mount Rushmore picture from here; Bear Lake picture from here.

True to You

2011-06-02T05:00:00.001-06:00

Every year, our elementary school does a dance festival. All the grades perform a dance outside, on the black top, for the parents. This year my oldest son's class performed to a luau song from Grease 2. My fun-loving guy really got into it - even threw in some head to knee moves that were pretty sweet. The best part was seeing him having so much fun up there, which made it even funner for us watching him.

This experience and a great (re)post by literary agent Rachelle Gardner about writing your own truth got me thinking. I've been struggling with my work-in-progress. I've been trying to write it according to what other people think/want and not just letting it come from the heart. But it's only when we write honestly and from our heart, silencing the critics at this stage, that we are inspired, and in turn, those reading our work will be inspired too.

What helps you write from the heart? What things do you try to stay true to? What sweet dance moves can you bust out? (I don't have any break dancing moves like my little guy, but I can cha, cha, cha!)

Better With Age

2011-05-26T08:54:00.001-06:00

In one of the book clubs I'm in, we're reading Gone With the Wind this month. I tried to read it in high school, and due to procrastination, I only made it about 800 pages. I almost wasn't going to attempt to read the book again - I LOVE the movie and have seen it enough times to know the story and characters.

However, I decided to give the book a second chance, and I'm glad I did. I don't know if I'm enjoying it more because it's not an assignment this time or because I started well in advance of the book club deadline. Or maybe I appreciate the writing and storycrafting more because I'm writer too. Or maybe I like the book better because I'm older and wiser, with more life experience, than as a teen. Whatever the reason I'm glad I'm giving this book another shot.

What book(s) did you struggle reading as a teen, but now you enjoy as an adult? Or vice versa? What have you read recently that you surprisingly enjoyed?

Feeling Poetic

2011-05-20T13:18:00.000-06:00

Literary Agent Rachelle Gardner is hosting a fun poetry contest about the hard parts of publication. Here's my entry:

Queries, submissions, and such

To dreams of publication I clutch;

The waiting’s the worst,

The rejections are terse;

Queries, submissions, and such.

Have a great weekend - my plans are lunch with a friend and getting rid of this flu bug that's made the rounds of our family this week.

What are your plans for the weekend?

Moments of Goodness

2011-05-13T13:09:00.000-06:00

1. Having Blogger up and running again! Yay!

2. Reading all your well-wishes and congratulations for the eHarlequin contest. Thank you!

3. Doing the online chat with one of the senior editors of Harlequin's Love Inspired Historical line. The ten minutes went really fast, but she requested the full manuscript of Pistols and Petticoats!

4. Attending a fiction awards gala last weekend with my DH. I helped judge the historical fiction category for the awards. It was fun to have my hubby in the writer world and meet a local author who's books inspired me as a teenager.

5. Hearing my boys sing "Happy Birthday" yesterday morning when they got up and (re)gift me with Silly Bands and rocks and books from their room.

6. Watching my daughter's fascination with the outdoors and finding these flowers.

7. Seeing Jane Eyre last night with my DH. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I have lots of admiration for Charlotte Bronte, the novel's author. Publication didn't come easily to her either, but she persevered. She also got married after Jane Eyre was a success, and that's a sweet love story in itself. Hope they make a movie of that one day.

8. Enjoying the beautiful weather we're having.

What things or moments have brought you goodness lately?

*Jane Eyre photo from here

Too Excited to Wait

2011-05-10T20:44:00.000-06:00

I was going to share my news on Thursday, but I can't wait! I entered a pitch contest through eHarlequin for their Love Inspired Historical line (I pitched my Pistols and Petticoats book) and I found out tonight I'm one of the six winners!!!

On Thursday I'll have a chance to chat online with one of the editors about my book. I'm a little nervous, but mostly just excited. Thanks, eHarlequin.

Closer Than You Think

2011-05-05T05:00:00.001-06:00

Last month I got lost driving to book club! I left in plenty of time, had a map, and was (fairly) confident I'd find it. However, when I reached the street I thought I was to turn down, the number was something completely different than the map's. I pulled over and stewed (fearful of really getting lost if I kept driving around) and finally decided to drive the 10 minutes back home to see if I could figure out another way to get there.

After discovering a different route to my destination, I set out again. This time I found the house easily - only to realize the spot where I pulled over before was just up the street. I had literally been three houses away from where I needed to be and hadn't known it.

Isn't life like this? Mine is. I'm moving along and I hit a roadblock and I think "I can't keep going." I hit a similar point in my writing journey the other week. But what I didn't know - that the Lord did - is that I was much closer to success than I realized. Literally it was right up the street from my place of discouragement.

A week later, some great news came - a little illumination from the Lord that I was indeed on the right path, that good things were closer than I'd thought.

As it says in Hebrews 9:11, the Lord is "an high priest of good things to come." In the midst of trial and challenge and discouragement, those good things to come are closer than we think. Sometimes, both figuratively and literally, they are right up the street.

What successes have you had lately? What ones have been closer than you thought? What good things do you hope are close?

*The winner of my blog giveaway is Chantele Sedgwick!!! Congrats Chantele. E-mail me through my Contact page and I'll send along your prize.

**I'm going to a local writers conference this weekend and then to a fancy dinner event with my DH afterward!

Blog Birthday Giveaway!

2011-04-28T05:00:00.001-06:00

My blog is one year old today and to celebrate I have another giveaway! To win a $20 Amazon e-gift card, answer the question below in the comments and make sure you're following my blog. Giveaway will end at midnight on Tuesday, May 3rd. I'll announce the winner Thursday, May 5th.

If your life was a movie, what genre would it be (action, comedy, drama, family, fantasy & sci-fi, romance, etc.)?

My answer: a humorous drama!

Weekend Equation

2011-04-26T05:00:00.001-06:00

Last week's projects + Easter plans + son's birthday fun + annoying head cold = too tired to think.

BUT stayed tuned Thursday for my next giveaway - this one's in honor of my blog's first birthday!

* Photo from here

Our "B" Projects

2011-04-19T05:00:00.001-06:00

1. Our basement is really starting to take form - the sheet rock is done and now they're on to mudding.

2. Our mama bunny had babies again - just in time for the babies to go to new homes for Easter. From about now until the end of summer (every time Fluffy has a new litter), our house is very popular. The neighborhood children love to see and hold the baby bunnies.

3. I've also got birthday party planning for my oldest.

4. And I'm trying to think of accesories to glam-up my little black dress for a formal dinner/event in a few weeks.

5. Finally, my book projects. I'm still querying my WWI book and researching/working on the companion novel.

What projects are you working on lately?

**I was tagged over at Christine Bryant's blog today! Come see why I like historical fiction and what historical past time I've always wanted to attend.

Confessions of a (non) Cook

2011-04-14T05:00:00.001-06:00

I do not like cooking, at all. Not one little bit. My husband, on the other hand, is a very good cook and baker, who comes from a family of master cooks and bakers. Out of the two of us, he's more likely to talk about recipes with (my) friends or work in the kitchen until he gets something down to perfection.

However, I do have one secret weapon in my nearly empty (though growing) arsenal of cooking skills, and that's cookies. I can make chocolate chip cookies with oat flour like nobody's business.

When a friend asked me how I made them the way I did, I wasn't sure what to say at first. I'd NEVER been consulted on cooking matters. "I just add more flour," I said a little tentatively. But actually knowing the answer to that question boosted my confidence and so have the requests for said cookies.

So what the heck does this have to do with writing? When all is said and done, after you've read all the writing advice, after you've met the "masters," after you've devoured every book in your genre, the most important thing is to BE YOURSELF.

Maybe you aren't a culinary bread maker (like my husband) or a dessert extraordinaire (like one of my sisters-in-law) or the next J.K. Rowling, but that's okay. You are you and somewhere inside you've got a secret weapon - your unique writing voice - that no one can match because it's yours.

What's the best advice you've heard on being true to your voice? What boosts your confidence in being youself? Do you like to cook? If so, what's your favorite thing to make?

*Photo from here

Being Brave

2011-04-12T05:00:00.002-06:00

Hey friends - sorry for the silence last week. My second son and I went out of town and my DH left for a business trip the day after we got back. So in essence, life was too hectic to think/blog last week.

I was a drama kid in high school. Probably because as an introvert acting gave me a way to be someone way more outgoing. My senior year I entered our city's scholarship pageant and chose to do a humorous monologue for my talent. I prepared and practiced, but I was still really nervous when my turn came. I was going to have to do this act in front of an auditorium full of people, including the judges. As I took my first position, my heart hammering, I decided to just have fun with it. Because of that choice, I was able to overcome my nerves, have a blast, and make people laugh. I even won third runner up.

This last weekend I felt impressed to make a similar decision - this time with my life. I'm striving to do things with more bravery and enthusiasm. I want to focus more on the doing and less on the nerves. I've done tough, scary things in the past, but it's usually been with lots of fear and worry BEFORE, DURING, and AFTER. Not anymore.

This last week I tackled two things with bravery and enthusiasm: queried some agents and performed a fun lip sync with some other moms (see the video that inspired us here) for a church activity. Because I was prepared and focused on being brave and enthusiastic, I accomplished both tasks without so much of the nerves. And especially in the case of the lip sync, I had an absolute ball doing it.

What have you done lately that's required bravery and enthusiasm? Is bravery something we lose a bit as we get older? How do you live your life bravely and enthusiastically?

*Photo from here

I Remember . . .

2011-04-01T05:00:00.002-06:00

As part of the workbook on worry I've been doing with my son (read more about it here), he needed to think of several happy memories. The book explained that one way of re-setting our minds and driving out worry is to remember a happy memory. My son recalled things like when he saw a rainbow or when he got a new toy or when we played a game together.

The last couple of days have brought some disappointments and chances for worry, so I tried this little memory trick yesterday. And it works!

I thought back to a day before my DH and I were married. We'd talked about marriage and wedding plans, but I didn't want to go ring shopping until I had my answer about us getting married. The memory I recalled was the day I told him "let's go ring shopping." His face was priceless because he knew I was saying so much more with those words. Remembering this happy memory really did lift my mood and helped the worries retreat.

Have you ever tried this trick? What helps drive worry from your mind? What's one of your happy memories?

*Check out my guest post over at InkSlingers today, a writing group that Bethany Mattingly is a part of and whose blog I really enjoy reading.

Ali Cross on The Choices I Make

2011-03-29T05:00:00.001-06:00

I've known my friend and critique partner Ali Cross for almost three years now and have long been impressed with how well she manages all the different facets of her life: wife, mother, homeschooler, writer, Christian, blogger extraordinaire. Today she shares how she does it.

The Choices I Make

There's a lot I could say about how to juggle all the balls we each have in the air. But none of it would really matter, because my story isn’t your story.

All I can say is this: We all have our priorities and our own choices to make.

Your priorities, your choices will be different from mine. But I think if you took the time to examine what your priorities are, then you might find you’ll do a better job of keeping those balls moving right along.

For me, my priorities are first, myself. This was a really hard one to accept. Nowhere, in any self-help book, parenting book, or even scriptures, does it say to put yourself first. And yet, this is what feels right for me. My health and happiness are paramount—without those things the juggler loses the strength to launch each ball into the air. Without the juggler, the balls won’t be launched or caught at all. Because I am the juggler. So I come first.

Next, comes my relationship with God. And this doesn’t include my “calling” or the activities I do as service within my church. This is just me, in prayer, in scripture reading, in constant association with my Heavenly Father. He brings the skill, the patience, the awareness, and the knowledge to get those balls moving in an orderly fashion.

My husband and children represent most of those balls. They include being kind, loving them, serving them. The nice thing about these balls, is that once I get them going and I pay attention to them, they return the favor to me by imbuing me with strength and happiness each time they pass through my hands.

And finally, my writing, which is really back to me again. Because I am my writing. Writing is an essential element in my care for myself. If I’m giving priority to myself, then I’m giving priority to my writing as well.

Notice, I didn’t include homeschooling or housework as any of my balls. Of course I have them, and they do take their turns whirling among the other colorful balls that I swing through the air. But they come and go.

It isn’t necessary for me to juggle all the balls at once. I am not always serving my husband, so I can throw up the homeschooling ball during those times. I am not always serving my children or writing, so I can replace those balls with housework for a while.

Really, the only balls that I try to keep going all the time are the ones that represent my love and care for myself, and the ones that represent my love and care for my God.

I never have all my balls up in the air at the same time, and I think this is how I manage everything I have to do—by making my priorities, and then building my life around those things. Also, I try never to expect perfection. If a good juggler drops a ball, he doesn’t drop all of them in search of the one rolling away. He simply keeps going, knowing that when he stops he can gather up the dropped ball and include it in his next round.

The same holds true as I juggle all the things I’m responsible for. I’ll drop a ball from time to time, but that’s okay. I just keep going with the balls I have until the day is done. Tomorrow is a new day, my balls will all be assembled and ready for me to animate them, and because I’ve taken care of myself, my hands and mind will be all the more nimble, and perhaps I’ll do a better job of keeping my balls in the air.

It all comes down to the priorities you set and the choices you make. Each juggler is different, and so are we!

How do you juggle all the different facets of your life?

Wish You Were Here

2011-03-24T05:00:00.003-06:00

With spring in the air (and spring break on the horizon), I'm feeling a familiar itch to travel. And while one of these destinations may not end up on the itinerary this year, I love to look at these pictures and dream.

Scotland

I've visited just a tiny portion of this country and loved it, but I want to see so much more.

Ireland

Most of what I saw of this country was from the bus heading north.

So again, I want to go back and really explore!

Mackinac (Mackinaw) Island, MI

I lived in Michigan for a year and half but never got up to the upper peninsula. The Grand Hotel (above) was built in 1887 and featured in the movie Somewhere In Time. No one is allowed to drive a car on the island.

Prince Edward Island

Anne of Green Gable's home - need I say more?

Do you love to travel? Is there a place you visit often? If you could go anywhere this year, where would it be?

*Photos from here: Scotland, Ireland, Mackinac Island, Prince Edward Island

Under Construction

2011-03-22T05:00:00.002-06:00

This is a picture of our newest project - finishing our basement. It's one tall room that we're converting into a bedroom and a storage room.

Since I have construction projects on the brain, I was thinking that sometimes my manuscript resembles the above picture (in all its rawness) after it's been through critique group. Structurally, they say, it's all there, but as far as the pleasing details (the walls, carpeting, paint) that's where it's lacking. And so I go back and tear down the sheet rock and rip up the flooring and give it another go.

As hard as those critiques can be, if I'm honest with myself and listen to that inner writer voice, I realize they are so right--again! Yes, that wall was so not working there, and that shag carpet? We can do way better than that. Once I tear down, build up, and smooth out, I discover what they were able to see all along - the beauty and power of what my work could be. And having friends like that who want me to succeed, who want to help make my stuff the best it can be, well, those friends are worth their weight in gold. (So thank you: Ali, Elana, Jenn and Sara! )

Do you have crit partners or a crit group? How have they helped you? Do you find the "re-construction" of your manuscript hard but worth it in the end?

Weeding Out Worry

2011-03-17T05:00:00.001-06:00

I used to be major worrier, especially as a new mom. Is Junior still breathing? Is he too hot, too cold? Is there some logical explanation for his crying? Is he sick; how can we fix it? And on and on. Once I recognized the fruitlessness of worrying, with a lot of help from my non-worrier husband, I worked hard to combat this weakness and I thought I'd done a good job - I was no longer a worrier - until recently.

My second son inherited my former worrier nature, so to help him, we bought a great little workbook for kids called "When You Worry Too Much." The premise is that like plants his worries grow as he pays more attention to them.

He and I started going through this book together and learning about what worries are and how they make kids physically feel, and BAM, I had a epiphany. I'm still a worrier. Naively I thought I'd mostly dispensed with the worrier part of me.

Now I realize that even though I've come a long way, I've still got some worry weeding to do myself, and thankfully working through this book with my son has given us both that opportunity.

Are you a worrier? Have your worries changed over the years? Can we ever be completely free of worrisome thoughts?

Historical Preferences

2011-03-14T09:17:00.002-06:00

Like my novels, my reading preferences don't cover one particular period of history. I like most historicals and historical romances - Regency (Jane Austen's time, early 1800's), Victorian (1837-1901), Frontier, Post-1900. If anything, my favorite historicals are those that cover a lesser known period of history. For example, one of my favorite Christian fiction authors, Siri Mitchell, has a book set in New York City in 1891 called She Walks in Beauty. Having never read anything set in this place and time period, I found the historical details very fascinating.

This last weekend I had an idea for a new novel (it seems the new-idea-muse comes most often when I'm in bed sick - go figure), but the story could really take place in one of several periods in England. Right now I'm thinking either Regency or late 1870's-1880's.

So which time period do you like reading or watching best - Regency (Pride & Prejudice, Emma), Victorian (North and South, Christmas Carol, Gone with the Wind), Frontier (These Is My Words, Lonesome Dove), or Post-1900 (The Great Gatsby, Grapes of Wrath)?

*photos from here, here, and here

Things That Make Me Smile

2011-03-10T05:00:00.004-07:00

1. Getting flowers from my DH

2. Watching these two little feet crusin' around

3. Seeing my oldest son's excitement about reading

4. Witnessing my other son's creativity (this is a robot)

5. Creating this four-leaf clover chain

6. Reading this and realizing what divine miracles

went into the fight for American independence

What makes you smile?

Our Own Stories

2011-03-07T05:00:00.002-07:00

Did you see this Yahoo News headline last week: Buckles, last WWI doughboy, dies at 110 in W.Va? Having written a novel set in this time period and thinking about all of those eyewitnesses gone, I felt a sense of loss, especially when I learned there are only two WWI veterans left in the entire world. I hope these men have shared their stories with their descendants so their eyewitness accounts are not lost to future generations.

I think this is what fascinates me most about history - not so much the events themselves, but the individual stories of those who were eyewitnesses to the events. A quote from the book Over There: The United States in the Great War 1917-1918 by Byron Farwell sums it up this way: Corporal Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, a stretcher bearer in the 1st Moroccan Division, said after a battle, "You could see nothing of the agony and passion that gave each little moving human dot its own individual character and made them all into so many worlds."

All of us have a story, our eyewitness accounts to historical moments, the details that make up our unique lives. I hope we're sharing those stories and asking those who have come before us to share theirs.

If you could sit down and talk with an eyewitness from any event in history, who would it be or what event would you choose?

Giveaway Winner: Thanks so much to everybody who entered my giveaway. It was really fun to see the different books all of you are reading. And the winner is . . . Pamela! I'll e-mail you today, Pam, to send your prize.

*Photo from here

If At First You Don't Succeed . . .

2011-03-04T05:00:00.001-07:00

My husband heard this awesome story the other day about Soichiro Honda, the founder of Honda Motor Company. Before WWII, while in college, Mr. Honda used all the credit he could get to develop a new way for piston rings to run. When he presented the idea to Toyota, though, they laughed at him. He even became a laughing stock among his colleagues.

He didn't let these setbacks stop him, though. He spent several more years refining the piston rings. Eventually he decided to build his own warehouse to manufacture them, but with the onset of WWII, he couldn't get the concrete he needed to build. So he developed his own concrete company so he could have the materials to build his warehouse. During the war, the warehouse was bombed several times and an earthquake damaged it. Finally Mr. Honda had to sell the business.

Later he invented a little bike with a motor (pictured above) to get around quicker and people started asking for them. He began making and selling those, along with other motorcycles, and then he turned his attention to making cars. Today Honda Motor Company is the world's fifth largest car manufacturer and the largest manufacturer of motorcycles and internal combustion engines.

What if Mr. Honda had given up when Toyota laughed at him? Or when he couldn't get the concrete he needed? Or when his warehouse was bombed?

I hope I have the gumption and fortitude to keep reaching for my dreams. Because I can't know if this next step might just be the ONE, the one I might miss if I threw the towel in now.

Have you almost given up on your dreams? What made you keep going?

*Don't forget my first giveaway ends tonight at midnight! I'll announce the winner on Monday.
**Photo from here.

My First Giveaway!

2011-02-28T05:00:00.001-07:00

What book are you currently reading?

To win a $20 Amazon e-gift card, answer the above question in the comments and make sure you're following my blog. Giveaway will end at midnight on Friday, March 4th. I'll announce the winner next Monday.

My answer: I just finished Whisper on the Wind by Maureen Lang. It was really interesting learning about occupied-Belgium during WWI.

Slowing Down

2011-02-25T05:00:00.001-07:00

(photo from here, along with another post on taking things slower)

I hate driving in the snow or heavy rain and last Saturday I did just that. I was driving with my boys to a store about twenty minutes from our house. It was raining and I was nervous to traverse the wet, busy, and construction-clogged freeway. Because we didn't have to be anywhere at a certain time, though, I reminded myself I didn't need to hurry. And guess what? My confidence increased as I allowed myself to take things at a slower but steady pace.

How many times in life do we get moving at breakneck speed and all sorts of stress, worry, or fear set in as a result? Of course there are things we have to do and places we have to be. But if we could slow down and proceed through life at a less rushed pace, I think our confidence in ourselves and what we can do would increase and so would our enjoyment of life.

What do you do to slow life down a bit?

Quantity or Quality?

2011-02-23T05:00:00.001-07:00

( photo from here)

[This is one of my absolute favorite writing quotes.] Ray Bradbury once said: "I believe that eventually quantity will make up for quality. How so? Michelangelo's, da Vinci's, Tintoretto's billion sketches, the quantitative, prepared them for the qualitative, single sketches further down the line, single portraits, single landscapes of incredible control and beauty. Quantity gives experience. From experience alone can come quality."

Do you agree? Why or why not?

Also, be sure to check out my guest post over at Ali Cross's blog today and find out the five things you need to have a successful critique group!

Elana Johnson - Challenges and Creativity

2011-02-21T08:00:00.003-07:00

(October 2009 - Four of my critique group members -

Jenn Wilks, Elana Johnson, Me - with pregnant belly - and Ali Cross)

I had the opportunity to attend a women's church group that Elana Johnson, my friend and critique partner, spoke at last week about surviving challenges and finding happiness. Elana's debut YA novel, Possession, will be coming out this June from Simon and Schuster.

Following some difficult life circumstances, Elana took up writing, beginning with her life history. She said creativity and her faith helped pull her through her challenges. She reminded us about the need for women to do something creative in their lives, doing something creative would help bring happiness. So many times we think to ourselves "I'll be happy when . . ." Maybe we fill that blank in with a new job, or marriage, or children, or a new home, or publication. But Elana talked about choosing to be happy RIGHT NOW. Her talk was very inspiring, especially because it applies to all of us, whatever our life situation.

If you want to read more about what Elana has to say about navigating life and the publishing world, check out her blog. Also, Elana is dishing about why she likes being in critique groups over at Ali Cross's blog today.

Setbacks or Stepping Stones?

2011-02-17T11:00:00.005-07:00

Two years ago, I submitted one of my novels to a small publishing house. They'd requested the manuscript after the first chapter won in a local contest. I REALLY, REALLY wanted them to publish it. That seemed like the best, the most important thing for my manuscript at the time. But in the end, they declined, and of course, I was heartbroken.

The other day I realized I'm now grateful for that rejection. I wouldn't have discovered what I really wanted to do with my writing and what industry I wanted to pursue if that publisher had agreed to take on my manuscript.

It brings to mind that quote about when God closes a door, somewhere He opens a window. Our struggles, rejections, and detours can ultimately bring us to achieve something greater than we might have imagined. As long as we keep working and believing and reaching.

What setbacks in your writing journey have become stepping stones?

K-I-S-S-I-N-G

2011-02-10T08:12:00.000-07:00

In honor of Valentine's Day next week, I thought I'd post about kissing. I enjoy sharing kisses (with my DH, of course), reading about kisses, and watching kisses. But I am NOT a fan of writing kisses. And yes, this is ironic, given that I write historical romances.

I like writing the scene the kiss takes place in, but for some reason, I dread/stumble through penning the actual kiss itself. If only I could convey the emotion and sweet passion of my favorite of all fictional kisses from the BBC miniseries North and South, based on the book by Elizabeth Gaskell.

The hero and the heroine are very much opposed to each other throughout the story. Then, at the very end, they are reunited at a train station - he's just been to her old house and she's on her way to go see him about a business proposition. They sit down on a train bench and talk, while the hero stares tenderly at the heroine. Filled with equal tenderness, the heroine lifts his hand to her lips and kisses it. Then the hero leans in, cups her face between his hands, and hallelujah, they kiss at last.

So what's your favorite fictional kiss? What makes it good? Is it the emotion, the actual words, the characters or something else?

What I've Learned about Fiction from The Bachelor

2011-02-03T09:09:00.001-07:00

Yes, I'll admit it. I like watching The Bachelor, and so does my hubby. I've enjoyed this season the most; the bachelor seems much more mature and open than in past seasons. But inherent to the show, there are always things that compel most of America to tune into the inner workings of one man dating numerous girls at the same time. And guess what? Those same things make for good fiction.

A Goal - For The Bachelor participants this is easy - win the man's heart and get a ring - or is it so easy? In the show it's not necessarily "what" is standing in these girls' way, but "who." Main characters also have to have a goal, something they want so badly they are willing to fight whatever or whoever to reach that goal.

Conflict - This is the reason we watch the show isn't it? What conflict/drama will result from all these girls falling in love with the same guy? Contrary to what I believed when I first started writing - you can't have a good story without conflict. It has to be there. Just like viewers of the show, readers find long lapses of happiness and calm BORING. It doesn't have to be shoot outs or natural disaster, but we need challenges and conflicting personalities to make us keep watching or reading for the resolve.

Motivation - or for Bachelor fans "the right reasons" - My husband and I joke that we'd be rich if we got a dollar for every time somebody on the show said "I'm here (you're here) for the right reasons." It doesn't matter so much what those reasons are, but like these girls, every character has to have some motivation - some reason for going after that goal. The awesome thing about motivation is it's largely tied into conflict because every one's motivations are different. Why do you think there's always drama in the Bachelor house? Because everyone has their own agenda/their own motivation for doing things that doesn't often gel with everyone else's agenda.

Emotion - There is never a small supply of this on The Bachelor. In just one episode you can see tears, fears, jealousy, frustration, compassion, and the thrill of falling in love. A novel needs just as much varied emotion and emotion in every scene. We want to "see" the characters laugh, cry, hurt, angry, fearful (and because I write historical romances) fall in love.

So any other Bachelor fans out there?

The First Step is the Hardest

2011-01-27T09:09:00.000-07:00

I got this crazy idea the other week to totally change the color scheme in my living room from lighter green and red, to blue and green. But as you know, wanting to do something and doing it are two very different things. Making the change all at once felt like a daunting task (not to mention out of the budget), so after some stewing, I took that first step toward my goal. I purchased curtains that would still work with the old colors but would also compliment the new ones. And now the transition seems more manageable.

Something similar happened this last week with increasing the word count of one of my novels. At first I stewed, and stressed, and didn't think I could do it. Three thousand plus words to add - impossible! Until I took that first step. I went through my first chapter, and lo and behold, I increased my word count by a little. I kept going, and now a week or so later, my word count is right where I wanted it to be.

So many things in life are like that, for me at least. I have something to do or want to accomplish and at first it looks like this huge, scary, stressful monster UNTIL I take that first step toward doing it. Then all of sudden, that monster shrinks in size and is so much more manageable. Sometimes taking that first step is the hardest one to take.

What first steps in your life or writing journey have been the hardest?

I'd Like to Thank . . .

2011-01-22T08:38:00.000-07:00

With the Golden Globes behind us and the Academy Awards coming soon (though I'll admit I don't watch either one), I was thinking yesterday about acceptance speeches.

Like a film, a book is a very collaborative effort. Sure the writer or writers actually write the manuscript, but there are so many other people who work behind the scenes to make a book possible. That's why I love reading a book's acknowledgements (typically before actually reading the book itself) to see who helped the author(s).

So here's my "acceptance speech" for my WIP: Ahem. First off, I'd like to thank my husband and kids for supporting my drive to create stories. Second, thanks to my writer friends for understanding and my non-writer friends for your interest in what I'm doing. Lastly, much thanks to the sweet woman in Iowa who answered my e-mail inquiries about schools in 1918 in such a timely manner.

Who would you be remiss in not mentioning in your book's "acceptance speech?"

Sharpening My Vision

2011-01-13T09:41:00.000-07:00

In the next few weeks, I will inevitably make my annual trip to the eye doctor. Without contacts or glasses, my world is VERY blurry. Those who've also been to the eye doctor likely remember this funny contraption.

The doctor uses this to determine your prescription, asking a series of questions about which view - 1 or 2 - is best. Sometimes there is a major difference between the two, but sometimes it is very subtle. And sometimes one seems good enough (you can see pretty well, though maybe not completely clear). But then one more click and everything is sharpened.

I discovered that clarifying "click" last night with my WWI book. I was fine-tuning some research and adding a few minor setting details when I stumbled onto a picture of this - a chateau in a village west of Paris.

This was almost exactly the way I'd pictured the hospital run by Catholic sisters in my story to look like - a large stone building with beautiful grounds and long, gravel drive. And then came the click - my hospital could be an old chateau! So I inserted those extra details about the renovated chateau/hospital. For me they helped sharpen the setting and round out the story. I'm still giddy about it!

What things have "clicked" for you in your stories?

Happy New Years

2010-12-31T08:33:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all your great comments this year - I'm looking forward to another one of new insights and friendships.

I haven't made goals for New Years in a very long time, but I figure this blog is a good place to make and write down some writing resolutions for the coming year. So here they are for 2011 . . .

Query my WWI book
Finish companion novel
Have fun while doing both

What are some of your goals for this next year?

How Many Words Makes a Writer

2010-12-17T09:45:00.002-07:00

I've been playing a stupid game - the comparison game. Anyone else play that? Lately it's gone like this: Am I a real writer - because I don't write as many words a day/week as so-and-so? Am I a real writer - because I didn't participate in NaNo like so-and-so?

Then I had an epiphany. When someone tells us he/she is an avid reader, do we automatically assume that means they read a set number of books each day/week/year? More than likely, we think that means the person really loves to read.

I'd like to think it's the same for writers. We're writers because we love to write! Not because we write a certain number of words a day/week/year, but because we are doing something that we love.

Sticking To It (Long Enough)

2010-12-07T08:22:00.001-07:00

I learned something valuable from the cold/cough I had for three weeks. The last week I was very vigilant about taking care of myself, and it was helping - but very slowly.

Being the not-so patient person that I am, I kept thinking maybe I needed to change up my approach to knock this thing out. It brought to mind something I once heard about doing the right thing long enough.

Sometimes in writing or blogging or parenting or starting a new business, we think because things aren't happening or they're going really slowly that we're doing something wrong - maybe we need to change up our approach. But it might just be that we haven't done what we're doing long enough.

Success might just be around the corner, if you stick to it long enough. For me, when I'm unsure if I'm on track and need to just keep at it or change something, I look to the sources in my life that I trust: my husband, my crit partners, successes in the past, and ultimately, God. Only then can I have the confidence to change things up or find the patience to keep at it a little longer.

What things have you stuck with long enough and found success?

Life's Surprises

2010-11-23T17:00:00.000-07:00

My creative writing teacher in high school had us write a letter to ourselves at the end of our senior year. We had to predict where we'd be in ten years and what things we'd accomplish in that time. She collected them and told us she'd mail them to us. True to her word, she held on to those letters and mailed them eight years later. Just the other night, I found my letter again and had a good chuckle over where I thought I'd be ten years after high school.

A few things I got right -- I predicted I'd marry a man who was my best friend, graduate from the two colleges I later attended, do some traveling, and be living near my parents. But some of the things like having only girls or receiving two marriage proposals or being involved in theater didn't come true.

And thank goodness.

Thank goodness we don't know every detail of our lives before it happens. Some of our greatest growth and happiness comes from embracing life's surprises. Who knew I'd be the first in my family to have a son? Or that I'd still be living in Utah? Or that I'd finally write a book and then another and another?

Of course we need to have goals and plans and ideas for what we want to do and where we want to be, but we also need flexibility because, thankfully, life is full of surprises.

I Heart Chuck

2010-11-11T20:50:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I were latecomers to this TV show. Since we don't have regular television, we watch stuff online, and one night, we remembered seeing a preview for the show and thought we'd try an episode. It didn't take long before we were hooked. Basically it's the story of a nerdy computer guy who winds up in the middle of the spy world and must use the computer in his head to fight the bad guys.

What I love about Chuck is that not only does the show have a little bit of everything (action, humor, and romance), but it is brilliant storytelling. Here's why:

There's a story goal in every episode - something Chuck is trying to accomplish
There's always opposition to said goal - someone or something blocking Chuck's way
There's identifiable motivation driving the characters to act the way they do
There's a subplot that usually mirrors the struggles Chuck is going through in the spy world
There's always (especially now that we're in Season 4) a major plot twist, typically near the end of the episode and of the nature of "I never saw that coming"
And finally there's our flawed but likable hero who is put into extraordinary circumstances and we want so much for him to succeed

Just like a great book grabs my interest and has me thinking about it later, I love how well-written shows and movies like Chuck inspire good storytelling.

Finding the Fun

2010-11-05T11:20:00.002-06:00

The weather has been GORGEOUS here. Who knew November could be so full of sunshine? The other day Child #2 wanted to earn some money to buy a toy, so we trooped outside to pick up the leaves Child #1 had raked as his money-making job. The sun was shining and the damp fall leaves smelled wonderful. We had a great time working together.

It got me thinking about finding the fun factor, even in work. I've pretty much finished outlining the novel I want to write next, and admittedly stressing about the story, then I read something on a blog that sort of brought me up short. The person was talking about writing her next book after being published and how different it was this time with a deadline, etc. And suddenly I realized, "Why am I stressing about this project? Writing is supposed to be fun for me. That's what I need to remember."

Sometimes in the midst of whatever we're doing (writing, querying, editing, publishing, parenting), we can lose sight of what made us start on this journey in the first place. Hopefully it's because we love what we're doing. Sometimes we need to remember in all the "work" to find the fun. Maybe it's letting go of expectations (or that annoying editor in your head), or writing something totally new and different, or leaving the computer altogether and going to soak up the sun.

How do you keep the "fun" in your writing journey?

Honest Scrap

2010-10-29T09:05:00.000-06:00

My friend and crit partner Ali Cross passed on this fun blog award:

It requires I share 10 things about myself.

1. I have this weird aversion to drive-throughs, if I'm driving, but the drive-through at the bank is just fine (and very essential when you're with kids).

2. I did some ballroom dancing and acting in high school and college, and some days I miss doing them (especially after watching Dancing With the Stars).

3. My husband and I love to quote movies in our conversations or to let the other person know how we're feeling. One of our favorite lines (from Remember the Titans) is "You're cookin' my grits, Yost."

4. Though I consider myself an organized person, the thought of planning out every hour of my day (or every detail of my book) makes me squirm. I like looser outlines (or to-do lists), with wiggle room.

5. I've never had a real positive horse-back riding experience, which is ironic, considering I married a man who loves horses and used to train them for racing. (Still need to put training race horses into a book).

6. I LOVE chocolate, but not citrus, cherry, or raspberry-chocolate combinations.

7. I have a fear of heights and sharks - so parasailing over shark-infested water would probably not be my thing.

8. Despite the fear of heights, I rode in a hot air balloon as a kid, which was pretty cool.

9. I get motion sick very easily (in cars, on planes, watching Mario Kart on the Wii). One time my DH and I were at a movie and I had to go sit on the floor at the side of the theater because I was so sick.

10. My great-grandfather, Leslie Turner White, was an author whose books were published in the 1950's and 60's. One of them, Lord Johnnie, I've read and quite enjoyed. And though he died before I was born, we share the same birthday.

And now to pass the award on to Jolene Perry. I'm fairly new to Jolene's blog, but I love the funny honest way she writes her posts.

Turning Points

2010-10-21T21:51:00.000-06:00

Last night at book club we were discussing life-changing moments. I didn't voice a comment - mostly because I couldn't think of much to say - but I've been mulling over today what I might have answered.

I can think of a few obvious life-changing moments: college, marriage, the birth of my first child. Then there's others that are more personal, less obvious: losing a baby, supporting my husband as he started his own business, and writing my first book.

The turning point, the life-changing moment in my writing was that first book. I'd wanted to publish/write a book for a long time, but the year my oldest was born, my husband gave me some plotting software that I used to start writing my first book.

At that point, I'd never been to a writers conference. I knew very little about publishing and even about writing a novel. I read The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing a Novel (which is actually a great book) and some other writing books and I learned as I went! I wrote the book and I finished it. I became a writer. That was one of my life-changing moments.

What moments in your writing journey have been turning points for you?

Who Matters Most

2010-10-14T08:30:00.000-06:00

Have you ever watched the TLC show Hoarding: Buried Alive? My hubby and I have watched it a little bit and I watched an episode one night in Indiana during my conference. It's a reality TV show about people who hoard things in their apartments or houses. It could be food, trash, papers, clothes, anything. But the problem is they have so much of whatever it is that they really can't LIVE.

The woman on the episode I watched said something I thought was truly profound. She'd been working with a professional organizer to go through all of her stuff and it wasn't easy for her. She said how sad it was when the things in your life block out the people.

I've thought about her words a bunch the last month. And while I don't hoard physical stuff, what "things" do I allow to crowd out the people/relationships in my life?

We all work to strike a balance, trying to keep the scale from tipping too far one way or another. And this stranger's words helped remind me of that. Sometimes the "things" in our lives need to be momentarily set aside, weeded through, or weeded out to make room for what--or who--matters most.

Those First Stories

2010-10-06T07:01:00.000-06:00

Since I'm up to my eyes in revisions (with a deadline for next week), I thought I'd enlist the help of Child #2 for this week's blog post. He's always telling us these funny little stories, so a month or two ago, I decided to type a few of them up while he dictated them to me. This one is my favorite - it's ripe with conflict, action, characters, and an emotionally satisfying ending.

One day we were all in the forest. We saw a bear coming toward us, but it was nice. There was a tiger heading for the bear, but it was bad. It was coming really toward us, but we were not afraid. There was a guy chasing the tiger and he shot the tiger. And the tiger was dead. Then we were saved. But there was another animal—it was an elephant, but it was nice. It let us aboard and it took us back home.

To Thine Own Self Be True

2010-09-23T20:56:00.000-06:00

The ACFW conference last weekend was phenomenal. I learned so much--I think I've got blog ideas for weeks--and had a great time meeting new people and hearing their stories, both written and in life.

One of the classes I attended was on author branding. Now before your eyes glaze over or you think this might not apply to those who are unpublished, I heard something really cool. The editor teaching the class told those of us who didn't yet have a book published that the first thing we could do toward developing an author brand is to figure out who we are. Once we know that, then we need to reflect that in the genre we choose to write.

I've heard other things before about branding and author platforms for fiction, but this little nugget of advice made it all click. And it really goes back to being yourself--in all aspects of life.

As Dr. Seuss said, "Be who you are . . . because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.”

Not What It Seems

2010-09-14T15:41:00.001-06:00

I saw the play Mama Mia in London some years ago. At the time, my mom, aunt and cousin and I thought the play was about some Italian girl who gets married. Yeah, not exactly. The scenery, dancing, and ABBA songs were way different than what we'd expected. I only knew a few of ABBA's songs at the time, but it wasn't until I got married and my husband had this ABBA CD that I really got into their music.

Often we do the same thing with people - without knowing what's really going on we make snap judgments (positive or negative). She/he has it all together or doesn't, she/he handles her/his life or kids better or worse, she/he easily made it to publication.

Like the play, though, things aren't always what they seem. We may not know about the really bad day someone had, or the challenges faced to learn peace, or the hundreds of rejections before that one "yes."

I want to remember that people/things aren't always what they seem. Who knows, you might end up rockin' out to "Dancing Queen" without expecting to!

p.s. Thank you to the lovely Ali Cross for these two blog awards last week.

She's not only a good friend but a member of my crit group (I know, be jealous, very jealous). Alas, because I'm leaving on a jet plan very soon, I won't be able do all that the awards entail. I'll share the required seven things about myself and call it good.

1. I sleep with a pillow next to my back because I'm on the side of the bed closest to the door. Something about not having anything to block me from the door freaks me out. And yes, I realize a mere pillow isn't going to do much against intruders -- it's psychological.

2. I don't like cooking. My DH is the real chef/baker of our family.

3. Despite #2, I can bake a mean cookie.

4. I like oldies music - and no, I'm not talking post-1980's. I grew up listening to the stuff with my dad and I still like it.

5. I want to visit Minneapolis because I have a novel that takes place there - research in person, baby! I just need to convince my husband this would be a fun vacation.

6. I need sleep, like a good eight hours. I'm not one of those people who can go to bed late and have no repercussions (read grouchiness) the next day.

7. I've never read a Harry Potter book. I know, I know. I did listen in as my husband read the first one out loud to my kids. Maybe once they get into them, then I'll jump on that bandwagon

Take a Chance

2010-09-08T09:46:00.004-06:00

I discovered an inspirational romance author this year who I really like. Her humor, her writing, her stories make for great reading. On a whim, I decided to e-mail her and tell her how much I enjoy her books. Other than the unrealistic hope that she and I would become best friends, I didn't expect much to happen after I sent the e-mail. A few weeks later I was pleasantly surprised when she e-mailed back.

Her e-mail was gracious and kind--she thanked ME for taking the time to e-mail! Then she asked if I was going to the American Christian Fiction Writers Conference this month.

Of course the answer was no. I looked up the conference just for fun and found out it was in three weeks in Indianapolis. The next day I looked up flights - just for fun, remember. But I kept thinking about the conference and what an great opportunity it would be. When I talked to my DH about it, he said, "Go for it." (And yes, I thank my lucky stars he decided to marry me!)

So next week I'm flying to Indiana. I'm thrilled (a bunch of the editors and agents from the inspirational market will be there), but I'm also scared. I don't like flying or being forced out of my comfort zone to meet new people (did I mention I don't know a soul there?) or unfamiliar situations or having to talk about my books out loud. But I'm going!

If I hadn't taken the chance to e-mail that author, I wouldn't be going to this conference. That's taking another chance in itself. But even if the only thing I get out of it is learning to be more bold personally and professionally, I think it'll be worth it.

Happy Where I Am

2010-09-01T11:37:00.000-06:00

For a last hurrah to summer, we went hiking last week as a family up the canyon near our house. As I was looking at the mountains that I've lived around for years, I realized how amazing they really are--how majestic and beautiful and less than 15 mins away.

There are times I wish I lived near an ocean (I am a California-born girl after all) or some place with lots more trees (like Michigan where I lived for a year and a half), but living near these mountains is pretty awesome too.

Sometimes we live too much in the past or worry too much about the future, but then we miss the cool things about where we are RIGHT NOW.

Though I may be unpublished right now, there are some great things about where I am: no deadlines, other than my own, and time to explore and write what I want.

Life IS sweet and it becomes even sweeter when I remember the moments/the things I'm grateful for in where I am right now!

Next week I'll spill the beans about the crazy thing I'm doing in TWO weeks, something that'll force me to face up to quite a few of my fears!

Don't Panic!

2010-08-23T08:40:00.001-06:00

One of my awesome crit partners Sara (who's background in military weapons has come in super handy) brought us these postcards from England where she traveled this summer to study Winston Churchill.

I LOVE this thought and it's applications to so many things in life. For example:

Just found out one of my top agents isn't accepting queries for an undetermined amount of time - keep calm and carry on.

Wishing for more writing time and wondering if the WIP is any good - keep calm and carry on.

School and shuttling back and forth to commence in t-minus two days - keep calm and carry on.

No butter to make our delicious (healthy) oatmeal and chocolate chip cookies - keep calm and carry on.

When faced with challenges/problems, we can slow down, not panic, think things through, and most of all, keep going. Don't give up. Keep calm and carry on!

Check out what my other crit partners said about this: Ali Cross, Elana Johnson, Jenn Wilks.

Stage Fright

2010-08-19T09:12:00.003-06:00

Last weekend I did something out of the ordinary, something scary. I performed a monologue at our neighborhood talent show.

Acting used to be a regular part of my life. I took drama in junior high, high school and college. I even performed this same humorous monologue (about a mother-of-the-bride who's daughter won't come out of the bathroom and get married) in front of a high school auditorium full of people.

But doing acting again after all these years and in front of people I see on a regularly basis really made me nervous. What if I forgot my lines? What if no one laughed? What if they all thought I was weird (most of them didn't even know I'd ever done anything like this)?

I really wanted to back out - big time. Still, I'd already told my kids about it and how I was scared. I wanted them to know grown-ups get scared too, but we can all do hard, scary things.

So I performed it and the monologue went great! In fact, I even won second place and a chance to perform at the next stage of the competition.

As I prepare to query my third completed novel in the next month, I think this will be my mantra - I can do hard, scary things! Because you just never know how they'll turn out or what you really can do, until you try.

A Little Variety

2010-08-12T08:51:00.002-06:00

I teach a small group of kids at my church. Last week the lesson was on friendship. One of the points was how a good friend appreciates that we're each different. The kids had to pick the best and worst colors out of a stack of five (dark blue was declared the best, gray was deemed the worst). Then I reminded them how boring the world would be if everything was the same color (that even gray has its place).

It got me thinking - probably more than it did them - about how often we compare ourselves to others and wish we could do/write/be more like "so and so." And yet, the world needs variety. How boring our lives would be if everybody spoke the same, wrote the same, did and knew the same things.

Too often we compare our weaknesses against someone else's strengths. Just because someone has a particular strength doesn't mean we have none. We all have things we're good at, but chances are they're different from somebody else's. And that's a beautiful thing!

Motivation (Or Why One Hulk is Better Than Another)

2010-08-04T15:02:00.001-06:00

I've learned a lot about motivation from my children, particularly Child #2. For example, he wears the same thing every day, and if this certain shirt and pair of shorts are being washed or I've hidden them in the dirty clothes, then he has NO motivation to get dressed.

Last night he and Child #1 were given identical McDonald's Hulk action figures. Then through a toy mishap (caused by Child #2 throwing both toys on Child #1's bed), Child #2 claimed he no longer had the Hulk that was his. In his words, "It doesn't have a hard head." (Translation: His Hulk's head swiveled too easily when turned, instead of stiffly like his brother's.)

Major meltdown ensued. He was mad, crying, and motivated enough to get what he wanted to maim and torture his older brother - all for a stiff headed Hulk. (This morning, though, he seems resigned and even happy about his swively headed Hulk. His motivation to have a toy apparently out weighed having NO toy.)

Characters in books and movies always require motivation (however silly) to act. If they don't, we as readers or viewers figure it out and the world loses some of its believability. But if those motivations are strong enough, then they will (believably) kick, cry, change, fight, flee, lie, risk to get what they want. And we will be drawn in right along with them. Even if all they want is a hard headed Hulk!

All Roads Lead to Rome (or Dublin)

2010-07-27T10:26:00.003-06:00

As a teenager/young adult I dreamed of visiting England. So after completing junior college in Idaho, I signed up for a three-week study aboard to visit Ireland, Scotland, England, France, and Belgium. Then disaster struck.

I lost my passport right before I was supposed to leave. I went to the airport on the day the group was to depart (without me) and talked to the directors. Once I got my new passport, I would fly alone to Ireland, and the group would pick me up at the airport in Dublin. But I would miss the first three days of the trip.

Being somewhat of an introvert, I was not thrilled with the idea of traveling across the ocean alone. But I did it, and the rest of the trip was amazing.

Was my experience aboard any better or worse from anyone else's because I came late? No; it was just different. Traveling by myself helped me gain courage for other life experiences to come. And though I only saw Ireland from the bus window, I apparently missed having to spend the night in the least desirable accommodations of the trip because I joined the group later.

All of us have dreams, some of us even have similar dreams, but the way we get there is totally unique. It's not necessarily better or worse than somebody else's journey. It's just different, because it's your journey.

Don't Knock It Till You've Tried It

2010-07-20T10:17:00.000-06:00

Seven years ago, sans children, my husband and I went with my family to Maui. One of the things we got to do was hike to some waterfalls to swim. When we reached the first waterfall, I didn't go into the water. Not that I'm scared of water (okay, maybe I'm a little nervous about swimming in the ocean - but that's what Jaws will do to you); I just don't like cold water.

So I sat on the shore for an hour, working up the gumption to go in and watching the rest of the group having a great time swimming underneath the waterfall. Finally, I mustered up enough courage to wade in the shallow part and then I dove in. Soon after, it was time to go, but now I didn't want to get out. I was having too much fun!

Sometimes in life there are things we want to do but don't because they look too hard, too scary, too big, too (fill in the blank). But you'll never know what you can do - write a novel, travel to a new place, learn a language, make a change within yourself - until you try.

Too often we let our fears (particularly fear of failure) get in the way. The title of a book I read several years ago, Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway, says it all. Feel the fear, but don't let it paralyze you. Maybe you'll write the next bestseller, or turn into an amazing chef, or simply become a better person. You can't know until you try.

Been There, Done That

2010-07-09T19:04:00.005-06:00

Another fun story from Child #2. He was telling me a couple of weeks back about when he was six. "But I thought you were three, almost four," I said. He replied, "I grew back down to three." My youngest sister did the same thing as a kid - talking about all the stuff she'd done when she was older.

We as writers do something similar. For example, I was watching Flyboys last night (James Franco used to be my movie crush), which takes place in France during WWI. One of my novels takes place in the same country three years later. But as I watched the show, I kept thinking how familiar it felt. Though I didn't live then, I've experienced that place, that time period through my story and research.

As writers (and readers) we get to be "six" before we even turn "four," or visit London in 1868, or rescue a runaway stage out West. I think that's one of the cool things about being a writer - how real our stories, our characters, our settings can become.

In the Water

2010-07-01T14:38:00.001-06:00

picture from flickr

My 2nd child is quite scared of the water, but I want him to learn to swim. So my hubby and I decided it would help if I took the parent/child swim class with him. Of course, he still says he doesn't want to do it. But I think it's less scary to him now because I'll be right there in the water with him.

I've been thinking lately about those who are "in the water" with me on this writing journey, those who support me, who hold my hand and let me know it's not so scary because I'm not alone.

First and foremost would be my husband, not only for encouraging me to pursue this dream but for helping me figure out plot points, character motivations, etc. I like to refer to him as the plot police.

Next would be my critique group - these gals are definitely in the water with me, and boy, have they helped me work on my backstroke, er, I mean, writing craft. Other writer friends have been a support to me, and then there are those who I don't even know but find encouragement in their stories/journeys of being "in the water" themselves.

What I Wish I'd Known

2010-06-15T09:35:00.000-06:00

I started this summer with great plans: a schedule of jobs for the kids, time to practice school stuff, and a way to cut down on the TV viewing, Wii playing, etc. And while I still think those things are still important, I got to thinking last night about how I might feel differently in the Fall. Would I wish I'd been less rigid, because once school starts things naturally have to be more structured? If my future self could talk to me now, would she say "let your hair down a little this summer?"

Then I started thinking about my writer self. What do I wish I'd known back when I first started writing? If I could talk to that girl then, what would I say? I think I would tell her to enjoy the writing journey even more. It's harder to write now - I like the end result more than the writing of it, but back then, I was more into the process.

What would my future writer self tell me now? (Like on The Office when Jim sends Dwight faxes from Future Dwight!) I hope she'd say that publishing is closer than I think and to not give up - the dream will be realized. I think she might say again to enjoy the journey, the process, a little more. This is the time in my career when I can write what I want, explore, hone, and take the time.

WIP & Painting

2010-06-03T12:07:00.004-06:00

My hubby and I recently updated our kitchen cabinets to blue-gray and added hardware. It took a lot of paint to cover up the old oak grain and two coats to make the cabinets look great.

The first time through with the paint, we were most concerned with getting the color on and making sure there weren't any major drips. We knew the second time through we'd polish things up. If we took too long on that first coat, the project would take even longer and we might get burned out too soon.

Same with my WIP. I've done both the edit-as-you-go method and the slap-down-the-whole-thing-first method. Right now, I prefer the latter. I want to get everything down, taking care not to have major drips -- like plot holes, motivation issues, etc. Once I have that "first coat" then I can go back and work on the parts that didn't stick so good, where the "grain's showing through," and eventually make them great. That way I have a complete manuscript to work with later and I stay interested (at least enough to keep writing) in the project.

My Reading List

2010-05-18T20:01:00.000-06:00

Here it is:

I've read Sarah's Key before and really enjoyed it. And no, I haven't read The Hunger Games yet (probably one of the few writers who hasn't). Isn't that a beautiful pile? Maybe a tad heavy on the historical fiction side, but hey, that's what I like to read and what I write. Can't wait to dive in!

Work those Writer Muscles

2010-05-13T16:30:00.004-06:00

I started my own exercise regime several weeks ago to work on the post-baby tummy. Though the routine is short, I was pretty sore the second day. When I told my husband I thought I might be doing something wrong, he told me the soreness meant it was working and I should keep at it. Days I exercise I feel better. Maybe it's more psychological, but I like to think it's helping physically too. If I want results, I need to do it every day.

The same with writing. I certainly applaud those who actually write every day. About two years ago I wrote nearly every day, trying to meet a personal deadline, and it was awesome. But my life/schedule has changed, and with three young kiddos, it's much harder to do that. But I do advocate doing something writer-ish every day, even if it's small. That might be working on your WIP, researching agents, reading books in the genres you're writing, editing, getting ready for critique group or critiquing others stuff, blogging, etc. Then, like my exercise routine, you're putting in the effort every day toward your writing career/journey and one day you'll see the results.