In many ways, 2019 was a year of treading water for me. There were accomplishments, milestones, victories and losses but the revolution of the sun and of myself was mostly in an ability to stand my ground. In the personal, we lost my grandfather-in-law, the adopted grandparent who loved and guided us, who united my … Continue reading Reflecting on 2019 with 2020 Hindsight
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Two Years Is Enough Anticipation
A while back I spoke of my concern with my third book's title, due to a few unrelated yet troubling posts made by other authors and asked readers of my blog or other social media sites to help me select a name. So I'm pleased to announce that I've finished the first draft of my … Continue reading Two Years Is Enough Anticipation
Kill Your Darlings – Not Like That, You Murderer!
You've heard the expression "you have to kill your darlings," right? I think there's a lot of confusion about which darlings and how much killing should be involved. Originally, the saying was meant to help remove "precious" scenes. Anything that doesn't contribute, is "so beautiful" but wordy etc. should be ruthlessly removed by the hopeful … Continue reading Kill Your Darlings – Not Like That, You Murderer!
Nah, No, WriMo (And Go Vote!)
It's November! So let me start with two questions: Who is doing NaNoWriMo? and Who definitely is not doing NaNoWriMo? I feel like this is all over my everything. Twitter, Facebook, GoodReads, and don't even get me started on tumblr! I love that everyone is motivated and pushing themselves! Writing sprints don't work for me. … Continue reading Nah, No, WriMo (And Go Vote!)
Well, We Found THIS At Least
Writing is work. Artistic work is real work. All kinds. Like with your day job or volunteer work, sometimes you wake up motivated, inspired, and ready for a full day of progress and achievement. But most of the time, Facebook seems way more interesting than whatever is on the to-do list. But that's not an … Continue reading Well, We Found THIS At Least
A Real Character
Sometimes when I'm telling stories I wish I had a fun character thought up already for a quick cameo. Someone memorable, who stands out from the rest, but doesn't require a lot of back story or fleshing out. In case you, like me, wish you had that available, here's a list of a few character … Continue reading A Real Character
Just Like Grandma’s
I have sent the first four chapters of Blood and Bone to the first beta reader, because I am mean and she is a great person who tells me I am not mean, I am merely offering her a chance at a new serial story. And because I am vain, I let myself believe her. We'll … Continue reading Just Like Grandma’s