Total words for the week: 6,220
Total words for the year: 84,458
Still working on the novel I started in January. Started a short story last week, but it's longer than I expected so I didn't finish it yet. :-)
Monday, March 26, 2007
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Thursday, March 22, 2007
John Edwards, his wife, cancer, and running for President
Today John Edwards announced that his wife Elizabeth's cancer had returned. (You may remember that Mrs. Edwards was diagnosed with cancer around the end of the 2004 presidential election). He also announced that he would continue his run for President.
I'm sure he's going to catch flak for this. He should make his wife the priority, etc. etc.. Some might even see his decision as cold.
I probably won't vote for Edwards. But I don't think he's a monster for continuing what he is doing.
What is he supposed to do? Bring his life to a screeching halt? I get the impression his wife doesn't want him to do that. She wants him to continue his avocation. And she will support him as much as he is able.
He stated that he will be with her when he needs to be. It seems to me he will put her before the campaign. That is right. But it doesn't mean he must abandon it entirely.
John Edwards will probably get criticized by me at some point. But not for this.
My prayers are with the Edwards family.
I'm sure he's going to catch flak for this. He should make his wife the priority, etc. etc.. Some might even see his decision as cold.
I probably won't vote for Edwards. But I don't think he's a monster for continuing what he is doing.
What is he supposed to do? Bring his life to a screeching halt? I get the impression his wife doesn't want him to do that. She wants him to continue his avocation. And she will support him as much as he is able.
He stated that he will be with her when he needs to be. It seems to me he will put her before the campaign. That is right. But it doesn't mean he must abandon it entirely.
John Edwards will probably get criticized by me at some point. But not for this.
My prayers are with the Edwards family.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Catchup on the writing status...
It's been a while, but I've been really tired and trying to catch up on my sleep.
Anyway, while in Oregon I did write 30, 547 words. That was 2 short stories and a lot done on my current novel. All in all a successful time.
This past week I wrote only 2,425 words. But I was tired, in and out of town, and college kid came home for Spring Break, so it's understandable. I did make a massive push to get stuff out in the mail.
This week I need to get some more queries out on my novels and try to get caught up on paperwork.
And the blog. I promise.
Anyway, while in Oregon I did write 30, 547 words. That was 2 short stories and a lot done on my current novel. All in all a successful time.
This past week I wrote only 2,425 words. But I was tired, in and out of town, and college kid came home for Spring Break, so it's understandable. I did make a massive push to get stuff out in the mail.
This week I need to get some more queries out on my novels and try to get caught up on paperwork.
And the blog. I promise.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Monday, March 12, 2007
Back in town...
Was out in Oregon from the third until today for a writers retreat. At the moment I'm exhausted, tired, jet-lagged, whatever you want to call it.
Will spend the next day or two catching up on the home front, including this blog.
Will spend the next day or two catching up on the home front, including this blog.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Writing - week 8
A little behind in posting this week...
Total words written this week: 6036
Total for year: 42,813
Also got a short story written. Had a couple come back that need to go out again and need to get the short story in the mail.
Still working on this writing thing. :-)
Total words written this week: 6036
Total for year: 42,813
Also got a short story written. Had a couple come back that need to go out again and need to get the short story in the mail.
Still working on this writing thing. :-)
Friday, February 23, 2007
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Writing - week 7
Words for week - 6208
Words for year - 36,777
Total words out - 218,100
Did get a new short story done and mailed out.
Nothing really new this week - just maintaining.
Words for year - 36,777
Total words out - 218,100
Did get a new short story done and mailed out.
Nothing really new this week - just maintaining.
Tired of it...
Am I the only one tired of the coverage of the aftermath of Anna Nicole Smith's death?
Don't get me wrong. I'm sorry she died. I'm also sorry for her baby daughter - it is crazy how this child has been thrown into such a questionable state while several men play "I'm the daddy."
But is it really breaking news? Is it really something we need to follow every second of? Something to be treated as hard news?
Or am I crazy?
Don't get me wrong. I'm sorry she died. I'm also sorry for her baby daughter - it is crazy how this child has been thrown into such a questionable state while several men play "I'm the daddy."
But is it really breaking news? Is it really something we need to follow every second of? Something to be treated as hard news?
Or am I crazy?
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Monday, February 12, 2007
Writing - week 6
Week 6 – 6,015 words
Had to fight to get that much and did it on a very strong medication (which is scary because I don't remember writing some of it - it's not bad, but I'm wondering where it came from).
Total words for 2007 - 30,569
Broke the 30,000 word mark this week. Happy about that.
Total words out: 214,700 Finished a short story and it's out in the mail today.
Sold a short story to Leading Edge last week, my second fiction sale. So a nice week overall.
Had to fight to get that much and did it on a very strong medication (which is scary because I don't remember writing some of it - it's not bad, but I'm wondering where it came from).
Total words for 2007 - 30,569
Broke the 30,000 word mark this week. Happy about that.
Total words out: 214,700 Finished a short story and it's out in the mail today.
Sold a short story to Leading Edge last week, my second fiction sale. So a nice week overall.
Monday, February 05, 2007
Writing - week 5
Words this week: 2789
Total words for 2007: 24,554
No new short stories out this past week. A lot of real life stuff kept me away from the keyboard.
On the plus side, I got some queries out for two novels I am shopping around.
Back to work...
Total words for 2007: 24,554
No new short stories out this past week. A lot of real life stuff kept me away from the keyboard.
On the plus side, I got some queries out for two novels I am shopping around.
Back to work...
Friday, February 02, 2007
January's Writing
Word count for January: 22,878
That comes to an average of 738 words/day. About half of what I wanted to be doing.
I wrote 4 short stories in that time - happy about that.
Here's looking at improving some of those numbers in February.
That comes to an average of 738 words/day. About half of what I wanted to be doing.
I wrote 4 short stories in that time - happy about that.
Here's looking at improving some of those numbers in February.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Life juggles
Sometimes I feel as if I'm juggling a ton of glass balls.
There's the Christian ball.
There's the wife ball.
There's the mom ball.
There's the daughter-in-law ball (inlaws live with us).
There's the writer ball.
And there are countless other ones as well.
My problem is balancing all of these without losing my mind. Sometimes I feel I'm doing great in one area but two other balls are crashing to the floor. Sometimes I want to drop ALL the balls and run away from them.
It would be nice if I could be Superwoman, and cover all the areas of my life without a hitch - but it never seems to work out that way.
Am I the only one to feel this way?
There's the Christian ball.
There's the wife ball.
There's the mom ball.
There's the daughter-in-law ball (inlaws live with us).
There's the writer ball.
And there are countless other ones as well.
My problem is balancing all of these without losing my mind. Sometimes I feel I'm doing great in one area but two other balls are crashing to the floor. Sometimes I want to drop ALL the balls and run away from them.
It would be nice if I could be Superwoman, and cover all the areas of my life without a hitch - but it never seems to work out that way.
Am I the only one to feel this way?
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Writing goals for 2007
I already posted these on Dean Wesley Smith's site, but thought I'd put them here as well. I'll try to keep you up to date on how I'm doing with these goals throughout the year.
1) Write 10,000 words/week (weekly column counts towards this total)
2) Write at least 1 new short story/week
3) Complete 4 new novels in 2007 (cheating slightly on this one - counting a novel I finished the first draft on in December but will be working on 2nd draft next week).
So last week I got 6,012 words done (not quite 10,000 but a nice start) and 2 new short stories out.
Will keep you posted. :-)
1) Write 10,000 words/week (weekly column counts towards this total)
2) Write at least 1 new short story/week
3) Complete 4 new novels in 2007 (cheating slightly on this one - counting a novel I finished the first draft on in December but will be working on 2nd draft next week).
So last week I got 6,012 words done (not quite 10,000 but a nice start) and 2 new short stories out.
Will keep you posted. :-)
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Monday, January 01, 2007
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Merry Christmas!!
A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!
"And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. {taxed: or, enrolled} (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. {taxed: or, inrolled} And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. {taxed: or, inrolled} And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. {watch: or, the night watches} And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
(Luke 2:1-14 KJV)
"And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. {taxed: or, enrolled} (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. {taxed: or, inrolled} And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. {taxed: or, inrolled} And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. {watch: or, the night watches} And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
(Luke 2:1-14 KJV)
Friday, December 22, 2006
Okay, this is just wrong...
I mean, if you don't like fast food, don't go there...
http://my.earthlink.net/article/str?guid=20061221/458a14d0_3ca6_1552620061221-367676292
http://my.earthlink.net/article/str?guid=20061221/458a14d0_3ca6_1552620061221-367676292
Monday, December 18, 2006
Mt. Hood Rescue
I have been riveted to Fox News watching updates about this. At this point, they have found the body of one of the climbers and they are continuing to search for the other 2, though hope is fading.
No one could mistake me for a mountain climber. I am, though, fascinated with those who do it and the risks they willingly take. I've read "Into Thin Air," and realize it is a sport that fascinates those who indulge in it.
My prayers go out to the familes of the hikers. For the family who lost a family member, and the others still waiting for hopefully good news.
No one could mistake me for a mountain climber. I am, though, fascinated with those who do it and the risks they willingly take. I've read "Into Thin Air," and realize it is a sport that fascinates those who indulge in it.
My prayers go out to the familes of the hikers. For the family who lost a family member, and the others still waiting for hopefully good news.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Meanwhile, back at the ranch...
I have to find a way (besides Tina nagging me) to remember to update this thing on a more regular basis!
So what have I been doing?
Writing and (this week at least) getting over a virus. Preparing to send queries out for a novel - a first for me.
And if you go to misssnark.blogspot.com, you'll see my first ever query get critiqued (and chewed up, but it's my first!) Mine is #24.
So what have I been doing?
Writing and (this week at least) getting over a virus. Preparing to send queries out for a novel - a first for me.
And if you go to misssnark.blogspot.com, you'll see my first ever query get critiqued (and chewed up, but it's my first!) Mine is #24.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Finished Nano...
With 3 and 1/2 hours to spare on November 30th, I got my 50,000 words verified.
Whew!
Whew!
Monday, November 27, 2006
A dangerous balloon
About 11:30 pm Thanksgiving night I was sitting on the couch typing my Nano novel and John was working on something on HIS laptop.
Then the power went off.
My poor mother-in-law was stuck in a very dark dining room. John and I still had the lights of our laptops to see by (let's hear it for batteries). James grabbed a flashlight and rescued his grandma.
Turns out a wayward balloon hit a power line and you know the rest of the story.
Power came back around 3 AM.
So is this the start of the holiday season?
Then the power went off.
My poor mother-in-law was stuck in a very dark dining room. John and I still had the lights of our laptops to see by (let's hear it for batteries). James grabbed a flashlight and rescued his grandma.
Turns out a wayward balloon hit a power line and you know the rest of the story.
Power came back around 3 AM.
So is this the start of the holiday season?
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Happy Thanksgiving!!
May your turkey be moist,
Your mashed potatoes at the perfect consistency,
Your cranberry sauce come out of the can,
Your pies be flakey,
And your dishes washed by someone else!
Your mashed potatoes at the perfect consistency,
Your cranberry sauce come out of the can,
Your pies be flakey,
And your dishes washed by someone else!
Friday, November 17, 2006
Writers beware
Check this link out - if you are serious about being a published writer and/or are participating in National Novel Writing Month this is important!
http://accrispin.blogspot.com/2006/11/ac-crispin-66-nanowrimo-write-in.html#links
http://accrispin.blogspot.com/2006/11/ac-crispin-66-nanowrimo-write-in.html#links
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Ok, I can't make stuff like this up...
I hope this link works. If it doesn't, let me know and I'll find a way to print this...
http://my.earthlink.net/article/str?guid=20061116/455bf050_3421_1334520061116873820706
http://my.earthlink.net/article/str?guid=20061116/455bf050_3421_1334520061116873820706
Monday, November 13, 2006
Adjusting to all kinds of things...
I upgraded to the new Blogger beta and am having to adjust to the new stuff. Fun, fun, fun.
On Saturday we moved my in-laws into our home (if you think that's a bad idea please keep it to yourself - the deed is done). That also takes adjustment as we get used to two more people living with us and adjusting to blending our families. An adjustment, but a necessary one.
Meanwhile, I'm trying to catch up with my writing, having lost several days due to being in Vegas and moving in the folks. Got a little over 2300 words in today - not bad.
And next week college kid will be home! :-)
On Saturday we moved my in-laws into our home (if you think that's a bad idea please keep it to yourself - the deed is done). That also takes adjustment as we get used to two more people living with us and adjusting to blending our families. An adjustment, but a necessary one.
Meanwhile, I'm trying to catch up with my writing, having lost several days due to being in Vegas and moving in the folks. Got a little over 2300 words in today - not bad.
And next week college kid will be home! :-)
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Lost in Las Vegas
All I wanted was a sandwich.
So far today I spent a lot of time resting - allergies were flaring and my body was tired.
I decided around 1 o'clock to go get a quick bite to eat. I knew there was a Subway somewhere in the casino.
I found the Subway and got my six-inch meatball sub. I remembered near the lobby was a dessert shop that had something they called Chocolate Decadence. Sounds good, right?
I couldn't find the way back to the lobby.
I wandered around the casino. I wandered OUTSIDE the casino. I wandered back into the casino.
The direction signs were less than helpful.
I finally stumbled across a familiar path and got to the lobby and my dessert.
Maybe I need breadcrumbs to leave when I go get food!
So far today I spent a lot of time resting - allergies were flaring and my body was tired.
I decided around 1 o'clock to go get a quick bite to eat. I knew there was a Subway somewhere in the casino.
I found the Subway and got my six-inch meatball sub. I remembered near the lobby was a dessert shop that had something they called Chocolate Decadence. Sounds good, right?
I couldn't find the way back to the lobby.
I wandered around the casino. I wandered OUTSIDE the casino. I wandered back into the casino.
The direction signs were less than helpful.
I finally stumbled across a familiar path and got to the lobby and my dessert.
Maybe I need breadcrumbs to leave when I go get food!
I'm in Vegas....
I am spending a few days in Las Vegas to attend a writers and firearms seminar (yes, you read that correctly).
I got here a day early and I am glad I did, for jet lag is in full force here. There is a three hour time difference between Vegas and Florida - which means by the time I staggered into my hotel room last night I was exhausted.
Plus, all the restaurants, etc., are in the casino area, where there is a lot of smoking going on. My allergies are not fond of cigarrete smoke.
BUT, I am looking forward to meeting up with some fellow writers and attending the seminar. Plus today I'm going to take some time to work on a new novel.
I got here a day early and I am glad I did, for jet lag is in full force here. There is a three hour time difference between Vegas and Florida - which means by the time I staggered into my hotel room last night I was exhausted.
Plus, all the restaurants, etc., are in the casino area, where there is a lot of smoking going on. My allergies are not fond of cigarrete smoke.
BUT, I am looking forward to meeting up with some fellow writers and attending the seminar. Plus today I'm going to take some time to work on a new novel.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
The insanity that is Nano...
...otherwise known as National Novel Writing Month, officially began yesterday. 50,000 words in 30 days. Sanity not only not required, but could hinder you. :-)
Anyone who is curious about it can click here. Warning: thing loads slowly.
Anyone who is curious about it can click here. Warning: thing loads slowly.
Monday, October 30, 2006
Message you do NOT want to get from your printer...
"Parts inside your printer are near the end of their service life"
Sigh...
Time to go shopping!
Sigh...
Time to go shopping!
Back from Vulkon...
Well, honestly, I got back Saturday night, totally exhausted. But it was a blast.
First off, hanging out with fellow Trek fans is always a blast. Though Nat has promised to smack me good for not letting her know I got back in one piece...did I mention what a fine human being Nat is? (grovel grovel)
I had my picture taken with Tim Russ and Armin Shimerman, who is slightly taller than me. I was kicking myself because I forgot my camera - Maria took pics for me and she and Nat have both promised to send me copies. Lucky me!
At the moment I am printing the first draft of a novel I've written so I can go over it. Want to be amazed? Print out the 100,000 word novel you spent the last 5 months writing. That's a LOT of paper
First off, hanging out with fellow Trek fans is always a blast. Though Nat has promised to smack me good for not letting her know I got back in one piece...did I mention what a fine human being Nat is? (grovel grovel)
I had my picture taken with Tim Russ and Armin Shimerman, who is slightly taller than me. I was kicking myself because I forgot my camera - Maria took pics for me and she and Nat have both promised to send me copies. Lucky me!
At the moment I am printing the first draft of a novel I've written so I can go over it. Want to be amazed? Print out the 100,000 word novel you spent the last 5 months writing. That's a LOT of paper
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Vulkon
Well, a friend of mine commented that I don't update this blog enough (hi Nat!) so here is a quick post.
I'm attending Vulkon today, a Star Trek/sci fi convention in Orlando. Part of the reason I'm here is to hang out with some friends I haven't seen in a while (hi Nat again! Hi Maria!) and that's always a treat.
Plus, cons can be fun. Wandering around the dealer room, actually meeting actors from your favorite shows...pretty cool.
I shook hands with Tim Russ last night (Tuvok, "Voyager") who is also an excellent musician. He had a concert last night which included dessert (yum!).
I also saw Armin Shimerman (Quark, "DS9", Snyder, "Buffy the Vampire Slayer"). He is shorter than I thought - I might be able to look him in the eye at my 5' 2". I'll check.
Anyway, they are gonna throw me out of the breakfast area in my hotel so I'll update later (SOON, Nat, I promise!)
I'm attending Vulkon today, a Star Trek/sci fi convention in Orlando. Part of the reason I'm here is to hang out with some friends I haven't seen in a while (hi Nat again! Hi Maria!) and that's always a treat.
Plus, cons can be fun. Wandering around the dealer room, actually meeting actors from your favorite shows...pretty cool.
I shook hands with Tim Russ last night (Tuvok, "Voyager") who is also an excellent musician. He had a concert last night which included dessert (yum!).
I also saw Armin Shimerman (Quark, "DS9", Snyder, "Buffy the Vampire Slayer"). He is shorter than I thought - I might be able to look him in the eye at my 5' 2". I'll check.
Anyway, they are gonna throw me out of the breakfast area in my hotel so I'll update later (SOON, Nat, I promise!)
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
I have a Myspace page!
Don't ask me why - I'm not sure myself. :-)
But you can click on the link if you like...www.myspace.com/lauraslook
But you can click on the link if you like...www.myspace.com/lauraslook
Christmas came early....
Don let me get a 30 GB Ipod as an early Christmas present! I'm enjoying my new toy and trying to figure out everything I can do with it - pictures, music, etc...
Am I a geek?
Am I a geek?
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Electronic destruction
Today our local recycling center was taking what they called "e-waste" - or end of life electronics. We had several, after building several computers this summer and breaking some parts in the process.
One of the computers still had the hard drive in it. I didn't want to turn it in with an intact hard drive so my original plan was to remove it before we turned in the tower.
James asked if he could have some fun. In a moment of insanity I said yes.
After a few fun-filled minutes with a baseball bat and James' rather large shoes, the tower was dented and the hard drive was in such shape that the data on it is lost forever.
Then we had to pick up all the little pieces that resulted from the carnage but it was quite entertaining. Killing a hard drive isn't as easy as it looks, but we managed it.
One of the computers still had the hard drive in it. I didn't want to turn it in with an intact hard drive so my original plan was to remove it before we turned in the tower.
James asked if he could have some fun. In a moment of insanity I said yes.
After a few fun-filled minutes with a baseball bat and James' rather large shoes, the tower was dented and the hard drive was in such shape that the data on it is lost forever.
Then we had to pick up all the little pieces that resulted from the carnage but it was quite entertaining. Killing a hard drive isn't as easy as it looks, but we managed it.
Monday, October 02, 2006
A new era occured this weekend...
James, my 17 year old, discovered that he can pick me up this weekend.
I am shorter than he is, and he has been working out. He can lift me right off my feet.
Can't carry me very far yet, but that's coming...
Eek.
I am shorter than he is, and he has been working out. He can lift me right off my feet.
Can't carry me very far yet, but that's coming...
Eek.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Which party?
When I first became eligible to vote, I registered as an independent. I figured I didn't know enough abut either party to decide which one to join.
Later, I became a Republican, because at the time, I thought we were going somewhat in the same direction.
These days I am not so sure.
I believe in a limited federal government and fiscal responsibility. I believe that judges should interpret the law and not pull new ones out of thin air. On most social issues, I would be considered conservative.
Yet the Republicans lately seem no more fiscally responsible than the Democrats. Nor do they object to bloated and ineffective government programs. They pay lip service to these things, but when you get right down to it, they don't practice what they preach.
Because I am pro-life I can't bring myself to go to the Democratic Party (yeah, tell me about their big tent. Pro-lifers are lepers in the tent). I am looking seriously at returning to my independent beginnings. Only reason I haven't done it yet is the whole issue of primaries, and I find that being a member of a party just so I can vote in that party's primary isn't a strong enough reason anymore.
Who left? Me or my party?
Thoughts?
Later, I became a Republican, because at the time, I thought we were going somewhat in the same direction.
These days I am not so sure.
I believe in a limited federal government and fiscal responsibility. I believe that judges should interpret the law and not pull new ones out of thin air. On most social issues, I would be considered conservative.
Yet the Republicans lately seem no more fiscally responsible than the Democrats. Nor do they object to bloated and ineffective government programs. They pay lip service to these things, but when you get right down to it, they don't practice what they preach.
Because I am pro-life I can't bring myself to go to the Democratic Party (yeah, tell me about their big tent. Pro-lifers are lepers in the tent). I am looking seriously at returning to my independent beginnings. Only reason I haven't done it yet is the whole issue of primaries, and I find that being a member of a party just so I can vote in that party's primary isn't a strong enough reason anymore.
Who left? Me or my party?
Thoughts?
Thursday, September 21, 2006
The problem of being out of town a few days...
...is the fact that when you get back there is a ton of stuff to catch up on and often you aren't motivated enough to do it the first couple of days back.
Today I am finally trying to deal with stuff - dishwasher, laundry, and finding the floor in my office (long story on the last one).
I also have a checkbook to balance, and stories to mail out, and stories to FINISH.
Time to get busy!
Today I am finally trying to deal with stuff - dishwasher, laundry, and finding the floor in my office (long story on the last one).
I also have a checkbook to balance, and stories to mail out, and stories to FINISH.
Time to get busy!
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Nice rejection
Rejection is part of the deal of being a writer. You send stuff out, and a lot of times you'll get your self-addressed stamped envelope back with a "thanks, but no thanks" form letter.
You learn to take your encouragement where you can get it. I got a chance to do that last week, when The New Yorker sent a rejection email for a short story I sent them.
In the email, they said the story had "evident merit."
I checked with fellow writers and they assured me this was indeed a positive rejection.
So the story is out to another magazine, and I have hope someone might buy it at some point.
You learn to take your encouragement where you can get it. I got a chance to do that last week, when The New Yorker sent a rejection email for a short story I sent them.
In the email, they said the story had "evident merit."
I checked with fellow writers and they assured me this was indeed a positive rejection.
So the story is out to another magazine, and I have hope someone might buy it at some point.
A lotta words.
I have said that I my goal for August was to write 30,000 words.
My total on my novel came to 26,932. That does not count my column or any work I did on short stories.
I have written at least 1,000 words/day since August 6th.
So I figure if I didn't hit 30,000 I came pretty close.
Also, for the Labor Day weekend, a group of us writers challenged ourselves to a high goal - 30,000 words from Saturday (or Friday night) to Monday bedtime. Some people set different goals, being at different points in their careers.
I shot for 30,000. It was hard work. You might not think that sitting at a keyboard making stuff up is hard, but I was whipped today.
And my novel was 24,003 words longer.
It wasn't my goal, but close enough to make me pleased.
Gotta admit that's a LOT of words...
My total on my novel came to 26,932. That does not count my column or any work I did on short stories.
I have written at least 1,000 words/day since August 6th.
So I figure if I didn't hit 30,000 I came pretty close.
Also, for the Labor Day weekend, a group of us writers challenged ourselves to a high goal - 30,000 words from Saturday (or Friday night) to Monday bedtime. Some people set different goals, being at different points in their careers.
I shot for 30,000. It was hard work. You might not think that sitting at a keyboard making stuff up is hard, but I was whipped today.
And my novel was 24,003 words longer.
It wasn't my goal, but close enough to make me pleased.
Gotta admit that's a LOT of words...
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Much ado about nothing
Ernesto came, and really wasn't any worse than a moderate thunderstorm. Everyone panicked over THIS?
Worse thing today wasn't the storm - it was a headache that was impervious to rest or Motrin. I think I did something to my neck that my head doesn't like.
Still on my 1,000 words/day. Will total August up very soon.
Worse thing today wasn't the storm - it was a headache that was impervious to rest or Motrin. I think I did something to my neck that my head doesn't like.
Still on my 1,000 words/day. Will total August up very soon.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Writng update
Well, I'd said I wanted to write 30,000 words in August.
As of today, I have written 11,118 this month.
Now I feel as if I'm getting in the habit of writing every day - it bothers me if I don't. At this point I have written every day since August 6th. And I have written 1,000 words each of those days.
It adds up...
As of today, I have written 11,118 this month.
Now I feel as if I'm getting in the habit of writing every day - it bothers me if I don't. At this point I have written every day since August 6th. And I have written 1,000 words each of those days.
It adds up...
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
New Computers, writng, and school starts next week!
John and I have spent the last couple of weeks trying to get 3 computers built. That's one for Don, one for John, and one for James. (Me? I took possession of John's, which is a year old and the one we built last year).
At this point all computers are up and running except for Don's. We had to reorder a motherboard for his (this is the second motherboard we've had hassles with). I put a new hard drive into the one I got from John so I would have more space and of course THAT has meant reinstalling stuff and the associated headaches. Not done with that yet but working on it.
I'm aiming to write AT LEAST 30,000 words in August. so far I have 4800 words in - will have to work a little harder to make the goal, but I'm going to give it a shot. Novel is almost at 30,000 words and I am bound and determined to finish the short stories on my hard drive.
James starts 11th grade next week. Hard to believe it! It seems like summer just started and here we are in August!
At this point all computers are up and running except for Don's. We had to reorder a motherboard for his (this is the second motherboard we've had hassles with). I put a new hard drive into the one I got from John so I would have more space and of course THAT has meant reinstalling stuff and the associated headaches. Not done with that yet but working on it.
I'm aiming to write AT LEAST 30,000 words in August. so far I have 4800 words in - will have to work a little harder to make the goal, but I'm going to give it a shot. Novel is almost at 30,000 words and I am bound and determined to finish the short stories on my hard drive.
James starts 11th grade next week. Hard to believe it! It seems like summer just started and here we are in August!
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
The past 20 days...
Just an update on what's been going on here. (Happy now, Tina? )
We got back from Guyana late Sunday afternoon, after being there since the previous Saturday. The trip went well - two doctors saw 557 patients, and 17 people were baptized.
Only thing was that a bug went through about 1/3 of the team. Yep, I was one of the 1/3.
Was sick on Thursday and became dehydrated, causing Don to force fluids into me. Felt a little better Friday, relapsed on Saturday, got on the plane Sunday feeling woozy. Was GLAD to get back to the US - glad I went to Guyana but was ready to be home.
Took yesterday to rest and recuperate. Now I'm trying to catch up on stuff before going out of town (again!) Thursday for a couple of days.
I sat down and figured out we are out of the house at almost 1/2 of the month of July.
No wonder this blog isn't being updated!
We got back from Guyana late Sunday afternoon, after being there since the previous Saturday. The trip went well - two doctors saw 557 patients, and 17 people were baptized.
Only thing was that a bug went through about 1/3 of the team. Yep, I was one of the 1/3.
Was sick on Thursday and became dehydrated, causing Don to force fluids into me. Felt a little better Friday, relapsed on Saturday, got on the plane Sunday feeling woozy. Was GLAD to get back to the US - glad I went to Guyana but was ready to be home.
Took yesterday to rest and recuperate. Now I'm trying to catch up on stuff before going out of town (again!) Thursday for a couple of days.
I sat down and figured out we are out of the house at almost 1/2 of the month of July.
No wonder this blog isn't being updated!
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Where do you want to be in 10 years?
This is a question writer/editor Dean Wesley Smith asked recently. Where did we, as writers, want to be 10 years from now?
If we didn't want anything to change, then we shouldn't change anything.
If we wanted to be best selling authors, then we should begin to make changes towards that now.
I am still working towards that. But every now and then I need to be reminded of this stuff.
10 years from now I want to be a best selling author.
What am I doing now to make that happen?
If we didn't want anything to change, then we shouldn't change anything.
If we wanted to be best selling authors, then we should begin to make changes towards that now.
I am still working towards that. But every now and then I need to be reminded of this stuff.
10 years from now I want to be a best selling author.
What am I doing now to make that happen?
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Time flies...
Some writing done this week, not as much as I would have liked. A trip to visit family (and to beat my older sister's computer into submission), a light attack of a bug that ran through my family, and a trip to help out my in-laws all cut into the writing time.
Except for the bug, I don't feel bad about those reasons. I do wish I hadn't goofed around so much as well - had a bad case of the "I don't want to work" a day or two.
But I can't believe 2/3 of June is already gone! It doesn't feel like it should be so late in the month...
Except for the bug, I don't feel bad about those reasons. I do wish I hadn't goofed around so much as well - had a bad case of the "I don't want to work" a day or two.
But I can't believe 2/3 of June is already gone! It doesn't feel like it should be so late in the month...
Monday, June 12, 2006
Three
Well, that's the number of unfinished stories STILL on my laptop. I got two finished and some readers gave their opinions on them - they go out in the mail sometime this week.
The other three will take a little longer to finish...they were not as far along as the first 2.
Also working on Chapter 6 of my novel now. Got very bogged down with it, then realized what I needed this chapter to do and have some decent ideas for it.
Also watching a bunch of rain fall as Alberto plays in the gulf...it isn't too bad, we really need the wet stuff given the drought we've been going through here in Central Florida!
:-) It all goes well...
The other three will take a little longer to finish...they were not as far along as the first 2.
Also working on Chapter 6 of my novel now. Got very bogged down with it, then realized what I needed this chapter to do and have some decent ideas for it.
Also watching a bunch of rain fall as Alberto plays in the gulf...it isn't too bad, we really need the wet stuff given the drought we've been going through here in Central Florida!
:-) It all goes well...
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Five
Five is the number of unfinished stories on my hard drive at the moment. One is a potential entry to Strange New Worlds, the other 4 are of various genres. Actually, I may have MORE than 5 unfinished stories, but I think one of THOSE is just going to be torn up and restarted - it's a Strange New Worlds Story that I just think won't work in its present condition.
But the five in question bother me. I'm pretty sure I can finish them, not sure why I haven't. Well, I just started the Strange New Worlds one. But why do I keep starting stories and not finishing them?
Well, I set a goal. By the end of this week I plan to have all these unfinished stories done. Hopefully setting a goal will give me the motivation I haven't had to finish them.
But the five in question bother me. I'm pretty sure I can finish them, not sure why I haven't. Well, I just started the Strange New Worlds one. But why do I keep starting stories and not finishing them?
Well, I set a goal. By the end of this week I plan to have all these unfinished stories done. Hopefully setting a goal will give me the motivation I haven't had to finish them.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Doing Writing Stuff Without Much Writing...
Yeah, I know it sounds crazy, but it sums today up.
I did not do a lot of writing today. Instead, I finally finished a binder that contained markets I have submitted to. I also researched markets for 4 manuscripts that had come back and needed to be sent to new markets.
All this took a couple of hours. When I was finished I hadn't written much but was much better organized. I also have stuff ready to mail.
I'm wrestling with a couple of short stories that are resisting finishing. I have Chapter 4 of my novel planned out in my head and I have to figure where it goes after that.
Well, back to the keyboard...
I did not do a lot of writing today. Instead, I finally finished a binder that contained markets I have submitted to. I also researched markets for 4 manuscripts that had come back and needed to be sent to new markets.
All this took a couple of hours. When I was finished I hadn't written much but was much better organized. I also have stuff ready to mail.
I'm wrestling with a couple of short stories that are resisting finishing. I have Chapter 4 of my novel planned out in my head and I have to figure where it goes after that.
Well, back to the keyboard...
Friday, May 26, 2006
Lazy Days of Summer
Things are settling down to the laid back slow days of summer. School is out for the boys, Ladies Class is over until the fall, and my schedule gets a little lighter.
Lighter is fortunate, too, since John is working in Human Resources at the hospital Don is at staff at. This means he needs a car, and so I am doing without wheels for now.
I've been working on Novel #2 and have 3 chapters done. I'm also working on some short stories. In June I will begin to crank out Star Trek stories to submit to the Strange New Worlds contest (curious? Check out http://www.simonsays.com/content/feature.cfm?sid=44&feature_id=5261 for details).
We'll be getting ready for our mission trip to Guyana that will take place in July. I intend to try to write some while there as well. I went there last year - readers of this blog might remember that.
Anyway, summer will hopefully be filled with writing and time with my sons. :-)
Lighter is fortunate, too, since John is working in Human Resources at the hospital Don is at staff at. This means he needs a car, and so I am doing without wheels for now.
I've been working on Novel #2 and have 3 chapters done. I'm also working on some short stories. In June I will begin to crank out Star Trek stories to submit to the Strange New Worlds contest (curious? Check out http://www.simonsays.com/content/feature.cfm?sid=44&feature_id=5261 for details).
We'll be getting ready for our mission trip to Guyana that will take place in July. I intend to try to write some while there as well. I went there last year - readers of this blog might remember that.
Anyway, summer will hopefully be filled with writing and time with my sons. :-)
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Back from Oregon
Got back Wednesday from the 2 writing workshops in Oregon. Still recovering from that ugly condition known as "jet lag."
John got home from college yesterday. It's good to have him back for the summer. Our dog thinks so too.
Soon things will settle into the leisurely pace of summer. I plan to be busy writing and studying writing during that time. And maybe even keeping up this blog, which will no doubt delight some of you. :-)
John got home from college yesterday. It's good to have him back for the summer. Our dog thinks so too.
Soon things will settle into the leisurely pace of summer. I plan to be busy writing and studying writing during that time. And maybe even keeping up this blog, which will no doubt delight some of you. :-)
Monday, May 08, 2006
The blessing of a good writing workshop
One of my problems as a writer is an issue of self-confidence. Yes, I have a well received weekly column in a newspaper. Yes, I have been a contributing writer on a reference work (The International Book of Days). Yes, I am currently working on short stories and finished a novel.
But sometimes, I wonder: do I have what it takes? Can my fiction stuff get PUBLISHED????
That's why writing workshops like the one I am currently attending in Oregon are so important.
First off, Dean Wesley Smith (remember that name!) is not only a great writer and editor, he is a fantastic teacher. He has no problem with just hanging out with us and answering our questions. He emphasizes that while we have to tell our fellow writers what they did wrong with their novels, we also have to tell them what they did right. And when people are telling us what we did right, we'd better be writing it down!
This workshop (and the one right before it - I have been here since Friday, fueled by coffee, chocolate, Diet Dr. Pepper and bagels with cream cheese) has been an encouragement to me because the people here are WRITERS. Most of them are farther along the writing path than I am. Yet none of them see me as anything less than a writer. Like them. They take me seriously and urge me to get past the whole self-confidence issue and WRITE!
And I get a glimpse of the future and realize I can.
That alone is worth the price of admission.
But sometimes, I wonder: do I have what it takes? Can my fiction stuff get PUBLISHED????
That's why writing workshops like the one I am currently attending in Oregon are so important.
First off, Dean Wesley Smith (remember that name!) is not only a great writer and editor, he is a fantastic teacher. He has no problem with just hanging out with us and answering our questions. He emphasizes that while we have to tell our fellow writers what they did wrong with their novels, we also have to tell them what they did right. And when people are telling us what we did right, we'd better be writing it down!
This workshop (and the one right before it - I have been here since Friday, fueled by coffee, chocolate, Diet Dr. Pepper and bagels with cream cheese) has been an encouragement to me because the people here are WRITERS. Most of them are farther along the writing path than I am. Yet none of them see me as anything less than a writer. Like them. They take me seriously and urge me to get past the whole self-confidence issue and WRITE!
And I get a glimpse of the future and realize I can.
That alone is worth the price of admission.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Do What You Love...
One of the writing websites in my favorites folder is http://www.deanwesleysmith.com/mt/. Dean Wesley Smith is a writer and editor and if you have any questions about writing he is more than willing to teach. In fact, he's teaching two writing workshops next month that I am attending.
The link above opens to his latest article, which is titled, "Do What You Love." It is of course about deciding to be a writer, but the principles could apply to other professions.
It reminds me that if I want to write, I can make it happen or hold myself back. I know this is what I want to do, I just need to say "no" to the excuses and do it. :-)
Anyway, thought I would share...
The link above opens to his latest article, which is titled, "Do What You Love." It is of course about deciding to be a writer, but the principles could apply to other professions.
It reminds me that if I want to write, I can make it happen or hold myself back. I know this is what I want to do, I just need to say "no" to the excuses and do it. :-)
Anyway, thought I would share...
Monday, April 17, 2006
One thing I want...
Today I drove to St. Pete to drive my mother-in-law home after she had laser surgery on her eye (it was to help prevent glaucoma). While in St. Pete, I decided to treat myself to a trip to Barnes and Noble.
I walked in the door and there it was. A display with a new Diane Mott Davidson novel. For those who don't know, this fabulous author writes a series concerning a caterer named Goldie who solves mysteries. There are delicious recipes through the book (including a fantastic brownie recipe in a book appropriately titled "Dying For Chocolate")
So I saw the book, and I said to myself, "OK, I have a lot of reading to do for the upcoming workshop. I don't have time to read this novel. It will be there later, it's not going to disappear. I haven't balanced my checkbook."
I walked away from the display.
I was back there picking up a copy before too long.
I paid for it with a snack and latte and started reading it, getting caught up in a few pages.
I write this not to demonstrate a lack of self control on my part (though yeah it does) but because I want to write that kind of book one day. The kind of book that makes someone not able to talk themselves out of buying it. The kind of book that makes a person WANT to read it.
Someday, I hope...
I walked in the door and there it was. A display with a new Diane Mott Davidson novel. For those who don't know, this fabulous author writes a series concerning a caterer named Goldie who solves mysteries. There are delicious recipes through the book (including a fantastic brownie recipe in a book appropriately titled "Dying For Chocolate")
So I saw the book, and I said to myself, "OK, I have a lot of reading to do for the upcoming workshop. I don't have time to read this novel. It will be there later, it's not going to disappear. I haven't balanced my checkbook."
I walked away from the display.
I was back there picking up a copy before too long.
I paid for it with a snack and latte and started reading it, getting caught up in a few pages.
I write this not to demonstrate a lack of self control on my part (though yeah it does) but because I want to write that kind of book one day. The kind of book that makes someone not able to talk themselves out of buying it. The kind of book that makes a person WANT to read it.
Someday, I hope...
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Drip...Drip...
Ok, I recently got diagnosed with glaucoma. This means I have the questionable joy of putting in eyedrops every day.
Because I had an allergic reaction to the first eyedrop medication, I am on liquid tears for the next few days. Unlike the medicine, which is once a day, I have to use these 2-3 times a day. Lots of opportunities to practice.
The thing is, I have trouble putting on eye makeup, much less dripping fluid into my eyes. One reader of my column emailed me after I wrote about this with some tips. I'm wondering if any of the rest of you have any ideas on how people who blink a lot get eyedrops in their eyes.
Because I had an allergic reaction to the first eyedrop medication, I am on liquid tears for the next few days. Unlike the medicine, which is once a day, I have to use these 2-3 times a day. Lots of opportunities to practice.
The thing is, I have trouble putting on eye makeup, much less dripping fluid into my eyes. One reader of my column emailed me after I wrote about this with some tips. I'm wondering if any of the rest of you have any ideas on how people who blink a lot get eyedrops in their eyes.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Coming back up for air...
Yes, Virginia, the novel is finished. It came to around 77,000 words.
I finished it while dealing with a horrible stomach flu last week. For the most part I lived on Gatorade and slept a lot when I wasn't writing.
This week I worked on a novel proposal. I had never written one before, so I had to research how to do it.
When I started writing it, I had to keep referring back to my manuscript. Which is how I discovered I had to reprint half of it - understand that the manuscript is 365 pages long. That is a lot of paper. Reprinting half of it meant more trees died.
Add two copies of a thirteen page proposal, a one letter query, the first 50 pages of the novel for an editor to see, and a cover letter, and I probably mailed nearly a ream of paper.
I admit looking at the novel fully printed was a funny feeling. I almost couldn't believe I had typed all that in the space of five months. It was a major stack, believe me.
Now that it's off to Oregon (in preparation for a Novel Workshop I'm attending next month) I can concentrate on some short stories that have been neglected.
And, yes, the blog that has been neglected too.
Am I forgiven, Tina? ;-)
I finished it while dealing with a horrible stomach flu last week. For the most part I lived on Gatorade and slept a lot when I wasn't writing.
This week I worked on a novel proposal. I had never written one before, so I had to research how to do it.
When I started writing it, I had to keep referring back to my manuscript. Which is how I discovered I had to reprint half of it - understand that the manuscript is 365 pages long. That is a lot of paper. Reprinting half of it meant more trees died.
Add two copies of a thirteen page proposal, a one letter query, the first 50 pages of the novel for an editor to see, and a cover letter, and I probably mailed nearly a ream of paper.
I admit looking at the novel fully printed was a funny feeling. I almost couldn't believe I had typed all that in the space of five months. It was a major stack, believe me.
Now that it's off to Oregon (in preparation for a Novel Workshop I'm attending next month) I can concentrate on some short stories that have been neglected.
And, yes, the blog that has been neglected too.
Am I forgiven, Tina? ;-)
Friday, March 24, 2006
Entering the deadline cave
I have a firm deadline to get this novel finished - next week! This is because I am attending a novel workshop in May to learn more about writing such a thing and part of the qualifications for attending is a finished novel.
I have been working on it and sometimes wish I could just find a box to crawl into with my laptop and room service. It's hard to write at home sometimes because there is so much here that cries out for my attention. Plus John is home from college this week and silly me I want to spend a LITTLE time with him...
Well, I'm going to chain myself somewhere and get this finished. I will warn family and friends I may be very focused this week and just be patient with me I WILL get back to normal (or what passes for normal with me)
I have been working on it and sometimes wish I could just find a box to crawl into with my laptop and room service. It's hard to write at home sometimes because there is so much here that cries out for my attention. Plus John is home from college this week and silly me I want to spend a LITTLE time with him...
Well, I'm going to chain myself somewhere and get this finished. I will warn family and friends I may be very focused this week and just be patient with me I WILL get back to normal (or what passes for normal with me
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Back from Tennessee...
Hardest part of the trip was the drive - Central Florida to Tennessee is a long hard drive, even with Don and I taking turns. But the benefits were worth it.
One great part of the trip was seeing my oldest friend Tina. We figured out we have known each other 20 years and we have kept the friendship up in one form or fashion all that time. She is probably my best friend, one I can tell ANYTHING to, and I was happy to see her house for the first time. It was great seeing her husband and son as well.
The real goal of the trip though was to visit John and his college and see for ourselves how things are going. They are going pretty well. We have some minor concerns, but the president of the college told us many parents would give anything to have a son like John. He is doing well in his studies and seems to be growing more comfortable in interacting with others, though he will never be Mr. Life-of-the-party. We left feeling pretty good about stuff there.
I got some writing done as well. Going through Atlanta enabled me to get a lot of stuff for my novel, which is partly set in the area. Tina here was again a big help, and I have promised a glowing acknowledgement in the book if it gets published. :-)
Today was the first day back from the trip - I unpacked, checked online stuff, deleted a TON of email and started organizing a long list of stuff that needs to be done. Will write my column after Bible Study tonight and work a little bit on the novel. The next few days will be busy with writing and family stuff as I try to finish the novel, get some short stories mailed out and other stuff.
One great part of the trip was seeing my oldest friend Tina. We figured out we have known each other 20 years and we have kept the friendship up in one form or fashion all that time. She is probably my best friend, one I can tell ANYTHING to, and I was happy to see her house for the first time. It was great seeing her husband and son as well.
The real goal of the trip though was to visit John and his college and see for ourselves how things are going. They are going pretty well. We have some minor concerns, but the president of the college told us many parents would give anything to have a son like John. He is doing well in his studies and seems to be growing more comfortable in interacting with others, though he will never be Mr. Life-of-the-party. We left feeling pretty good about stuff there.
I got some writing done as well. Going through Atlanta enabled me to get a lot of stuff for my novel, which is partly set in the area. Tina here was again a big help, and I have promised a glowing acknowledgement in the book if it gets published. :-)
Today was the first day back from the trip - I unpacked, checked online stuff, deleted a TON of email and started organizing a long list of stuff that needs to be done. Will write my column after Bible Study tonight and work a little bit on the novel. The next few days will be busy with writing and family stuff as I try to finish the novel, get some short stories mailed out and other stuff.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Funny quote...
My friend Tina sent this quote to me. Since I am a columnist (not a "communist" like some of my friends like to joke) I see a lot of truth in the funny:
"A reporter gets an assignment and writer the necessary coverage, but a columnist always starts with nothing but a deep hole to fill."
-- James Qwilleran, The Cat Who Dropped A Bombshell
"A reporter gets an assignment and writer the necessary coverage, but a columnist always starts with nothing but a deep hole to fill."
-- James Qwilleran, The Cat Who Dropped A Bombshell
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Plugging away
I have written short stories. Some have taken around a day - others longer.
Right now I am working on my first novel. This incarnation of it was begun back in November. I have nearly 56,000 words into it and counting.
A novel is so much more complex than a short story. There is so much more to keep track of, to keep on top of. It is a challenge - my biggest challenge ever as a writer.
I had hoped to have it finished by the end of January. Then by the end of February. At this point I'm hoping to have the first draft completed by mid-March.
Back to the Word Document...
Right now I am working on my first novel. This incarnation of it was begun back in November. I have nearly 56,000 words into it and counting.
A novel is so much more complex than a short story. There is so much more to keep track of, to keep on top of. It is a challenge - my biggest challenge ever as a writer.
I had hoped to have it finished by the end of January. Then by the end of February. At this point I'm hoping to have the first draft completed by mid-March.
Back to the Word Document...
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Losing battle...
Anyone else ever feel keeping an area of your house clean and straightened up was an exercise in futility? I'm feeling that way with my office. Every time I come close to getting the clutter and stuff cleaned out, something happens and it resembles a disaster zone.
For example, I recently cleared out a bunch of old newspapers and had gotten some stuff cleared off. Then my youngest needed me to work on his computer. Things were disrupted because we had to make a work surface for his tower. So once again things are scattered about...
I need "Clean Sweep" to come pay a visit...
For example, I recently cleared out a bunch of old newspapers and had gotten some stuff cleared off. Then my youngest needed me to work on his computer. Things were disrupted because we had to make a work surface for his tower. So once again things are scattered about...
I need "Clean Sweep" to come pay a visit...
Friday, February 03, 2006
It's been almost a month...
...since I updated this thing. My apologies. Real Life kicked me in the teeth some in January.
Some of it was holiday blues, some of it was anniversaries of my mother's death and the death of a good friend. Some of it was sleeping and concentration problems. In all, it was a lousy month in a lot of ways.
The one bright spot was my 23rd wedding anniversary. I am blessed with my husband, who loves me in spite of some of the difficulties I've been having.
And yes, Tina, I owe you an email. I've been out of town a couple of days, but I will get around to it. :-)
Some of it was holiday blues, some of it was anniversaries of my mother's death and the death of a good friend. Some of it was sleeping and concentration problems. In all, it was a lousy month in a lot of ways.
The one bright spot was my 23rd wedding anniversary. I am blessed with my husband, who loves me in spite of some of the difficulties I've been having.
And yes, Tina, I owe you an email. I've been out of town a couple of days, but I will get around to it. :-)
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Writng stuff
Well, I looked through my stuff for 2005. Last year I wrote (or finished) 16 short stories and around 50,000 words of a novel. I sent out 17 short stories (some had been written in previous years and were retweaked and sent out again). I got 12 rejections (some stories got rejected by more than one editor) and none bought.
This week I found out my number of rejections is up to 22, since 10 stories I submitted for the Star Trek Strange New Worlds anthology were rejected.
One of my goals this year is to write and mail out 36 short stories. Another is to get my novel finished. This year I intend to get a lot more writing done and hopefully I will improve in it as I go.
This week I found out my number of rejections is up to 22, since 10 stories I submitted for the Star Trek Strange New Worlds anthology were rejected.
One of my goals this year is to write and mail out 36 short stories. Another is to get my novel finished. This year I intend to get a lot more writing done and hopefully I will improve in it as I go.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Happy New Year!
Greetings from the New Year! I didn't stay up to see it happen this year - I am dealing with what Don calls "reactive airways." In English this means my airway is irritated from a recent cold and/or allergy flareup, which means I've been coughing a lot and flirting with laryngitis. So I took medicine and went to bed early in hopes of getting this through my system.
Later today or tomorrow I am going to review how my writing went in 2005. I have set writing goals for this new year and may share them here. I am also setting personal goals that I want to meet.
Hope the year starts off right for you today! :-)
Later today or tomorrow I am going to review how my writing went in 2005. I have set writing goals for this new year and may share them here. I am also setting personal goals that I want to meet.
Hope the year starts off right for you today! :-)
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas to all of you reading this! I hope your holidays are happy and you get at least ONE thing you want under the tree! ;-)
Monday, December 12, 2005
A Bird Flies the Nest...
This was a column I wrote when my oldest left for college. It was published in the Highlands County News Sun on August 28th, 2005 in my column, "Laura's Look." Please don't copy without permission... :-)
The fact I would cry at some point was a given.
Don knew it, John knew it, all my friends knew it, and I knew it. My hope was I wouldn’t burst into tears in front of the whole college.
We had spent two days driving from our home in Florida to this small university in western Tennessee. The van was packed with the things John would take with him for his new home – a dorm room. These included a computer, a two drawer filing cabinet, and several suitcases filled with clothes and linens.
John did some of the driving on that long journey. I looked at him over these past few days as I have in the past few months, with wonder. I can still remember when he was so small I could hold him comfortably in one arm. Now he towers over me, well over six feet tall.
When did his voice get so deep? Will he always look like a child to me? I searched his face, wondering when I would see not the boy I raised, but a man on his own. Other parents assure me I will see that one day. Now, I still see the boy.
I knew this day was coming – this time of severing more of the apron strings that bound him to me. Don and I knew that this was a process, that one doesn’t let go all of a sudden, but step by step. This was the biggest step of all.
As the days of John stepping into the college world approached, I know I asked myself all kinds of questions. I have said in the past that John was the first teenager I ever raised. That much is true. Because he was the first, he got two parents who were inexperienced and not yet broken in. Obviously, mistakes were made. (This is not to say we’re doing a perfect job with his brother James – we’re just making different mistakes).
I think most parents at one point in time or another ask themselves if they are doing a good job. As the child enters the late teens, I think the question acquires a new urgency, as the parent realizes the window of influence they have is closing. The young man or woman is no longer under their wing – they are on their own.
Back to the trip. Don, John and I set up his stuff in his room once we got there. College dorms haven’t changed that much since I lived in one more than 20 years ago – the walls are still cinderblock, the furniture still utilitarian. We discovered we had forgotten minor things, such as a trash can and a phone. These things were obtained.
Finally, Sunday afternoon came. It was time. John had an orientation event to attend. Don and I had a fifteen hour drive to start. The bird was ready to fly.
Yes, I cried. I didn’t make quite the fool of myself I thought I might, but there were tears shed. To his credit, John put up with them with a minimum of eye rolling.
I am more fortunate than my parents were in this day of the Internet. We no longer are restricted to expensive long distance calls or snail mail for contact. Email and various chat programs give us more opportunities for communication than there were in the past, though they still haven’t figured out how to drag long detailed answers out of your college student when you ask how things are going.
The bird has flown. Mommy can’t help but watch him go with mingled tears of sorrow, pride, and joy.
The fact I would cry at some point was a given.
Don knew it, John knew it, all my friends knew it, and I knew it. My hope was I wouldn’t burst into tears in front of the whole college.
We had spent two days driving from our home in Florida to this small university in western Tennessee. The van was packed with the things John would take with him for his new home – a dorm room. These included a computer, a two drawer filing cabinet, and several suitcases filled with clothes and linens.
John did some of the driving on that long journey. I looked at him over these past few days as I have in the past few months, with wonder. I can still remember when he was so small I could hold him comfortably in one arm. Now he towers over me, well over six feet tall.
When did his voice get so deep? Will he always look like a child to me? I searched his face, wondering when I would see not the boy I raised, but a man on his own. Other parents assure me I will see that one day. Now, I still see the boy.
I knew this day was coming – this time of severing more of the apron strings that bound him to me. Don and I knew that this was a process, that one doesn’t let go all of a sudden, but step by step. This was the biggest step of all.
As the days of John stepping into the college world approached, I know I asked myself all kinds of questions. I have said in the past that John was the first teenager I ever raised. That much is true. Because he was the first, he got two parents who were inexperienced and not yet broken in. Obviously, mistakes were made. (This is not to say we’re doing a perfect job with his brother James – we’re just making different mistakes).
I think most parents at one point in time or another ask themselves if they are doing a good job. As the child enters the late teens, I think the question acquires a new urgency, as the parent realizes the window of influence they have is closing. The young man or woman is no longer under their wing – they are on their own.
Back to the trip. Don, John and I set up his stuff in his room once we got there. College dorms haven’t changed that much since I lived in one more than 20 years ago – the walls are still cinderblock, the furniture still utilitarian. We discovered we had forgotten minor things, such as a trash can and a phone. These things were obtained.
Finally, Sunday afternoon came. It was time. John had an orientation event to attend. Don and I had a fifteen hour drive to start. The bird was ready to fly.
Yes, I cried. I didn’t make quite the fool of myself I thought I might, but there were tears shed. To his credit, John put up with them with a minimum of eye rolling.
I am more fortunate than my parents were in this day of the Internet. We no longer are restricted to expensive long distance calls or snail mail for contact. Email and various chat programs give us more opportunities for communication than there were in the past, though they still haven’t figured out how to drag long detailed answers out of your college student when you ask how things are going.
The bird has flown. Mommy can’t help but watch him go with mingled tears of sorrow, pride, and joy.
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Between Nano and Christmas - beware, rambling!
50,175 words. That is my total count for National Novel Writing Month. I felt a great sense of joy and relief when I uploaded the wordcount to the Nano Website and got a "good job!' message. That was a lot of work. Now I have to finish the thing, but at least I'm on a less crazed timetable with it!
The column still goes on. I'm lucky that I can usually find something to talk about every week. Reader input is always a joy. Even criticism. It means someone is reading the thing.
I got a reject on a story I wrote before Nano consumed me. It's waiting to get booted back out into the cold cruel world. I need to decide where to send it next.
I also need to finish a short story I started before Nano. It's a little different for me - more of a suspense kind of story. I also need to do some research on the thing.
We are now an iguana-less household. We've had 3 iguanas for a while. The boys decided to give the two big ones to a local pet store, because they were not exactly friendly. The third, a little one, must have missed them, because she turned up dead in her aquarium one evening - we aren't sure why.
I would like to get 4 short stories written and sent before the year is up. That would make 20 short stories I've written and sent out this year. A start. Right now I am trying to pick my writing goals for 2006.
Hope everyone is doing well and not too insane during this season...
The column still goes on. I'm lucky that I can usually find something to talk about every week. Reader input is always a joy. Even criticism. It means someone is reading the thing.
I got a reject on a story I wrote before Nano consumed me. It's waiting to get booted back out into the cold cruel world. I need to decide where to send it next.
I also need to finish a short story I started before Nano. It's a little different for me - more of a suspense kind of story. I also need to do some research on the thing.
We are now an iguana-less household. We've had 3 iguanas for a while. The boys decided to give the two big ones to a local pet store, because they were not exactly friendly. The third, a little one, must have missed them, because she turned up dead in her aquarium one evening - we aren't sure why.
I would like to get 4 short stories written and sent before the year is up. That would make 20 short stories I've written and sent out this year. A start. Right now I am trying to pick my writing goals for 2006.
Hope everyone is doing well and not too insane during this season...
Monday, November 28, 2005
Okay, this was embarrassing
I was WIPED this morning. We drove John and his roomate to Orlando to catch a plane back to school, and got home late. I went to bed even later to allow the caffiene I had drunk to stay awake to drive to wear off. Big mistake.
This morning after I drove James to school I was exhausted, so I decided to turn the radio on low and lie down for a bit. I fell asleep. Big mistake number 2.
A few times I woke up a little and heard Perky barking, but they are delivering fill to the property next door so I didn't think much about it. However, at one point his barking sounded like he was outside, so I got up and checked.
The front door was ajar. I have no idea how it got that way. I called for Perky and he came trotting right up to the house. I decided to get the mail.
At the end of the driveway, I heard one of my neighbors call me in an alarmed tone of voice. He said he had chased Perky to the house, seen the door ajar, and tried ringing the doorbell (which I obviously didn't hear). He assumed the worst and called the cops.
Now, on the one hand, I am thankful we have such good neighbors. On the other hand, the cops might STILL find a dead body here if the embarrasment I'm feelling kills me.
Anyway, it's not boring around here...
This morning after I drove James to school I was exhausted, so I decided to turn the radio on low and lie down for a bit. I fell asleep. Big mistake number 2.
A few times I woke up a little and heard Perky barking, but they are delivering fill to the property next door so I didn't think much about it. However, at one point his barking sounded like he was outside, so I got up and checked.
The front door was ajar. I have no idea how it got that way. I called for Perky and he came trotting right up to the house. I decided to get the mail.
At the end of the driveway, I heard one of my neighbors call me in an alarmed tone of voice. He said he had chased Perky to the house, seen the door ajar, and tried ringing the doorbell (which I obviously didn't hear). He assumed the worst and called the cops.
Now, on the one hand, I am thankful we have such good neighbors. On the other hand, the cops might STILL find a dead body here if the embarrasment I'm feelling kills me.
Anyway, it's not boring around here...
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Nano update and college kid home
Well, as I continue in the insanity that is Nano (National Novel Writing Month) I have passed the 28,000 word count milestone. That means I need to write a mere 22,000 words between now and November 30th. I'm pretty sure I can do it, though I might have lost what's left of my mind by then...
Meanwhile, John is home for Thanksgiving Break, and that has been great. I'm not sure who missed him more - me or the dog. I've been spending some time with John in the evenings - bad news is that sometimes means I've been up with him until 3 am or so, and am exhausted - I've slept away the past two mornings. But I'm not sorry. I'm glad to spend time with him.
Hopefully things will approach normal next week, and I will be back to working on short stories and getting them into the mail. Meanwhile, back to work...
Meanwhile, John is home for Thanksgiving Break, and that has been great. I'm not sure who missed him more - me or the dog. I've been spending some time with John in the evenings - bad news is that sometimes means I've been up with him until 3 am or so, and am exhausted - I've slept away the past two mornings. But I'm not sorry. I'm glad to spend time with him.
Hopefully things will approach normal next week, and I will be back to working on short stories and getting them into the mail. Meanwhile, back to work...
Friday, November 11, 2005
What I've been up to...
Yeah, bet you've been wondering...
Well for one thing, I'm participating in National Novel Writing Month, where the challenge is to write 50,000 words of a novel in the month of November. I've been meeting with some friends in a local coffee house to help motivate me (and vice versa) to grind out those words. I have good days and bad days with it, up to nearly 12,000 words now (I think). Will keep plugging away...
Earlier this week I sent off three short stories that had been rejected by various markets. Currently I have 10 Star Trek stories submitted to the anthology Strange New Worlds and 6 short stories sent out to various editors. I have another short story partway done that I need to finish up and mail somewhere.
I am also playing World of Warcraft and trying to get in and chat with with my IRC friends.
At some point I am going to finish organizing my office so it doesn't look like it got hit by a hurricane....
Anyway, still alive, still nuts, still trying to do my best.
Well for one thing, I'm participating in National Novel Writing Month, where the challenge is to write 50,000 words of a novel in the month of November. I've been meeting with some friends in a local coffee house to help motivate me (and vice versa) to grind out those words. I have good days and bad days with it, up to nearly 12,000 words now (I think). Will keep plugging away...
Earlier this week I sent off three short stories that had been rejected by various markets. Currently I have 10 Star Trek stories submitted to the anthology Strange New Worlds and 6 short stories sent out to various editors. I have another short story partway done that I need to finish up and mail somewhere.
I am also playing World of Warcraft and trying to get in and chat with with my IRC friends.
At some point I am going to finish organizing my office so it doesn't look like it got hit by a hurricane....
Anyway, still alive, still nuts, still trying to do my best.
Monday, October 24, 2005
We're still here!
Yes, Wilma has come and gone, but we are fine. Our fence took another hit (I think vines on a chain link fence are pretty, but it sure makes it easy for the winds to knock it around). It was VERY rainy and windy, but we didn't even lose power, though my cell phone seems a little dicey at the moment.
Pray for those who have yet to go through this thing. But rest assured, we are OK.
Pray for those who have yet to go through this thing. But rest assured, we are OK.
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
WIL-MA!!
Just when you thought it was safe to scrap your hurricane plan...
Looks like we're gonna get a visit from a hurricane after all this year. Wilma looks like a nasty one too. I'm going to go out today to fill up the van, get some supplies, and I'm checking the freezer to see what will be for dinner the next couple of days. (One vow I made last year is that I would NOT be caught with a bunch of food in the freezer to spoil after a hurricane).
We were supposed to have hurricane shutters up by now, but they kept putting us off. Too late now, let's hope we won't miss them this weekend.
Keep us and everyone in the path of this beast in your prayers.
Looks like we're gonna get a visit from a hurricane after all this year. Wilma looks like a nasty one too. I'm going to go out today to fill up the van, get some supplies, and I'm checking the freezer to see what will be for dinner the next couple of days. (One vow I made last year is that I would NOT be caught with a bunch of food in the freezer to spoil after a hurricane).
We were supposed to have hurricane shutters up by now, but they kept putting us off. Too late now, let's hope we won't miss them this weekend.
Keep us and everyone in the path of this beast in your prayers.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
It's been a while...
Yeah, still here, still alive, just keep forgetting about this blog.
Right now I'm working on another series of short stories; these are non-Trek in nature. I'm with a group of fellow writers who have challenged each other to write and send to magazines five short stories this month. I have one out, am working on #2, and have ideas for the other three. It's just a matter of sitting down and writing them.
It doesn't help that I have gotten readdicted to World of Warcraft. For those who don't know, WOW is an onlne multi-player game that can suck you right up if you are not careful. It's a way to spend time with my yougnest though.
But I really want to make writing my career and if I'm going to do that, I have to buckle down and do it.
I will be working on getting my act together. keeping this blog up, and other things.
Meanwhile, back at the ranch...
Right now I'm working on another series of short stories; these are non-Trek in nature. I'm with a group of fellow writers who have challenged each other to write and send to magazines five short stories this month. I have one out, am working on #2, and have ideas for the other three. It's just a matter of sitting down and writing them.
It doesn't help that I have gotten readdicted to World of Warcraft. For those who don't know, WOW is an onlne multi-player game that can suck you right up if you are not careful. It's a way to spend time with my yougnest though.
But I really want to make writing my career and if I'm going to do that, I have to buckle down and do it.
I will be working on getting my act together. keeping this blog up, and other things.
Meanwhile, back at the ranch...
Friday, September 30, 2005
Whew!
Finished 4 Star Trek stories I am submtting for an anthology (Strange New Worlds) and got them to New York before the deadline.
That makes 10 Star Trek stories and 5 non-Trek stories that are lookng for homes.
So far all I've gotten for any of this is rejection letters, ranging from generic to helpful. Taking the weekend off and plan to finish up another short story I was working on and get it out in the mail by the end of the week.
Tonight Don and I are drivng to Orlando to see Sean Hannity and others in a "Battle of the Mouths." Looking forward to it.
That makes 10 Star Trek stories and 5 non-Trek stories that are lookng for homes.
So far all I've gotten for any of this is rejection letters, ranging from generic to helpful. Taking the weekend off and plan to finish up another short story I was working on and get it out in the mail by the end of the week.
Tonight Don and I are drivng to Orlando to see Sean Hannity and others in a "Battle of the Mouths." Looking forward to it.
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
Monday, September 19, 2005
Do you watch Battlestar Galactica?
I watch this show, currently running on the Sci Fi channel. It's a recreation of the 70's show tby the same title. Since the second season, I've also been writing reviews of the episodes.
If you want a look at them, check out my friend Dale's online sci-fi mag, located at http://www.home.earthlink.net/~cylon12/MP.html, and click on "Commentaries."
If you want to check out Battlestar Galactica, the episodes run on the Sci Fi channel on Fridays at 10 PM.
If you want a look at them, check out my friend Dale's online sci-fi mag, located at http://www.home.earthlink.net/~cylon12/MP.html, and click on "Commentaries."
If you want to check out Battlestar Galactica, the episodes run on the Sci Fi channel on Fridays at 10 PM.
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Ok, this is NOT my day for plumbing
OK, so the septic guy comes and pumps out our septic tank. He says everything should run fine.
So I start to run once again the load of sheets and towels I had in the washer, and throw together dinner.
Suddenly James says, "Mom, the sink is filling up!"
Sure enough, the kitchen sink was filling up with water, and as I ran to the sink I looked into the laundry room and saw fresh water on the floor.
We turned off the washer. Further research determined the water in the laundry room was bubbling up from the drainage pipe behind the washing machine.
While Don and James go to church I am sitting at home, waiting for the plumber to call me back.
Sigh.
So I start to run once again the load of sheets and towels I had in the washer, and throw together dinner.
Suddenly James says, "Mom, the sink is filling up!"
Sure enough, the kitchen sink was filling up with water, and as I ran to the sink I looked into the laundry room and saw fresh water on the floor.
We turned off the washer. Further research determined the water in the laundry room was bubbling up from the drainage pipe behind the washing machine.
While Don and James go to church I am sitting at home, waiting for the plumber to call me back.
Sigh.
*Scream*
Ok, as I type this, there is water on the floors of my kitchen (a little), laundry room, and pantry (was a lot more but some of it has dried) and the water to the house is turned off.
The 3 plumbers I called could not fit me in today. A friend who is a realtor sent her handyman over to take a look.
When he found out we hadn't cleaned out our septic tank in the 10 years we've been here, he explained that was a BAD idea.
I only had to call 2 septic people to get one of them to promise to try to get here today.
Waiting to hear back from them.
Why does this kind of stuff happen on days I plan to get massive amounts of work done? :-)
The 3 plumbers I called could not fit me in today. A friend who is a realtor sent her handyman over to take a look.
When he found out we hadn't cleaned out our septic tank in the 10 years we've been here, he explained that was a BAD idea.
I only had to call 2 septic people to get one of them to promise to try to get here today.
Waiting to hear back from them.
Why does this kind of stuff happen on days I plan to get massive amounts of work done? :-)
Monday, September 05, 2005
For those who were forced to abandon their pets in Louisiana
A friend of mine asked me to post this to get the word out. Feel free to share it with others.
Forward this? Post it on your blogs? The idea is to get as much information out as possible.
There's hope for stranded pets in the New Orleans area. The Louisiana SPCA, New Orleans' animal control agency, has begun rescuing pets from owners houses.
Louisiana SPCA director Laura Maloney said shelter workers follow other agencies and crews through neighborhoods and rescue pets, some that are locked in houses. At the owners' request, "we break in," she said.
Owners have to call or email the operation and give their name and address and information about where the pet is confined.
The hotline number is: 1-225-578-6111. E-mail should be sent to Katrinaanimalrescue@yahoo.com.
The hotline already is in effect, Maloney said. "It's busy an awful lot. We are trying to get a bank of telephones"
Forward this? Post it on your blogs? The idea is to get as much information out as possible.
There's hope for stranded pets in the New Orleans area. The Louisiana SPCA, New Orleans' animal control agency, has begun rescuing pets from owners houses.
Louisiana SPCA director Laura Maloney said shelter workers follow other agencies and crews through neighborhoods and rescue pets, some that are locked in houses. At the owners' request, "we break in," she said.
Owners have to call or email the operation and give their name and address and information about where the pet is confined.
The hotline number is: 1-225-578-6111. E-mail should be sent to Katrinaanimalrescue@yahoo.com.
The hotline already is in effect, Maloney said. "It's busy an awful lot. We are trying to get a bank of telephones"
AHHH! Who is blocking my writng?
The lonely land of writer's block...here I am, wandering around here, looking for my muse. I am trying to find my way out
Doesn't help that I have a deadline for some of these stories. Grrrrr.
Anyone see my muse wandering around, please send her my way...
Doesn't help that I have a deadline for some of these stories. Grrrrr.
Anyone see my muse wandering around, please send her my way...
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
OK, I get the Stupid Award today...
Last week the company that does our pest control called and asked if they could come today. I said, "Sure."
Yesterday James told me he had a two hour early release today. I thought, "No problem." I forgot the pest control people would be coming 1/2 hour after I was supposed to pick up James.
In an unusual move on my part, I left my cell phone off. Normally I have it on, but it wasn't charged and I didn't take the time to plug it into the car charger.
To top it all off, I nearly missed picking James up and when I went running out the door I didn't check to see if the front door was locked.
Well, the pest control person came to the door, found it unlocked, figured I had done so on purpose (some people who work outside the home do so) and came in and started to spray.
Then the alarm went off.
Because my phone was off, I couldn't be reached. The cops showed up to find the pest control person scared out of her wits in her truck. They got hold of Don who came to the house and cleared everything up. He is NOT happy with me.
So I am going to go sit in a corner for a while...
Yesterday James told me he had a two hour early release today. I thought, "No problem." I forgot the pest control people would be coming 1/2 hour after I was supposed to pick up James.
In an unusual move on my part, I left my cell phone off. Normally I have it on, but it wasn't charged and I didn't take the time to plug it into the car charger.
To top it all off, I nearly missed picking James up and when I went running out the door I didn't check to see if the front door was locked.
Well, the pest control person came to the door, found it unlocked, figured I had done so on purpose (some people who work outside the home do so) and came in and started to spray.
Then the alarm went off.
Because my phone was off, I couldn't be reached. The cops showed up to find the pest control person scared out of her wits in her truck. They got hold of Don who came to the house and cleared everything up. He is NOT happy with me.
So I am going to go sit in a corner for a while...
Monday, August 22, 2005
A bridge crossed...
Don and I just returned from delivering our oldest son, John, to college. He is attending Freed Hardeman University in Tennesee, a 15 hour drive from home.
I cried less than you might expect me to, but maybe it hasn't fully hit me yet.
Anyway, I'll post more later. I have a ton of email and other stuff to plow through first...
I cried less than you might expect me to, but maybe it hasn't fully hit me yet.
Anyway, I'll post more later. I have a ton of email and other stuff to plow through first...
Monday, August 08, 2005
Arrgh, me hearties!
Ok, years ago, when Windows 3.1 was the standard (yeah, THAT long ago) I became enchanted with a game called Pirates! You might remember it - it took the history of pirates and wove a game that was enchanting, challenging, and just plain fun. I spent many hours on that game, until my operating system outgrew it.
Earlier this year I discovered that the game had been updated. I saw it several times in the store, but the $50 price tag helped me to resist the lure of the 7 seas.
Well, today I gave in. My fate was sealed when I found one copy of it in Electronics Boutique for $29.95. Yes, I bought it. And I just spent 4-5 hours pirating on the 7 seas and enjoying every minute of it.
It will take major doses of discipline to get any work done this week...
Earlier this year I discovered that the game had been updated. I saw it several times in the store, but the $50 price tag helped me to resist the lure of the 7 seas.
Well, today I gave in. My fate was sealed when I found one copy of it in Electronics Boutique for $29.95. Yes, I bought it. And I just spent 4-5 hours pirating on the 7 seas and enjoying every minute of it.
It will take major doses of discipline to get any work done this week...
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Wow
I am trying to figure out how to take this past week and boil it down to the couple of paragraphs I only have time to write before I go to bed.
I can't.
There is so much to tell. About the medical mission trip. About the people I met. The things I saw. I am still absorbing it all.
I'm back tired, a little bruised, bug-bitten, and very humbled.
We are so rich in this country. I met with people who don't have electricity where they live. Who don't have indoor plumbing. People who manage to make do without air conditioning, dishwashers, expresso, television, Internet access, and a number of other things we tend to take for granted here in the United States.
Yet these people are not unhappy people. The children are not bored. They smile and laugh. They were good to us who came to provide medical care and spiritual teaching.
Yes, we went to give. But we took back as much as we gave.
I was blessed by the opportunity to go there.
More later...
I can't.
There is so much to tell. About the medical mission trip. About the people I met. The things I saw. I am still absorbing it all.
I'm back tired, a little bruised, bug-bitten, and very humbled.
We are so rich in this country. I met with people who don't have electricity where they live. Who don't have indoor plumbing. People who manage to make do without air conditioning, dishwashers, expresso, television, Internet access, and a number of other things we tend to take for granted here in the United States.
Yet these people are not unhappy people. The children are not bored. They smile and laugh. They were good to us who came to provide medical care and spiritual teaching.
Yes, we went to give. But we took back as much as we gave.
I was blessed by the opportunity to go there.
More later...
Friday, July 22, 2005
Off on a mission trip
I've been in a pre-trip crazed fog this week, as Don, the boys and I get ready to leave the country for a week on a medical mission trip to Guyana.
This is not a just going on vacation trip. We are bringing medical stuff (Don and other doctors will be seeing patients all next week) and other things, including stuff for us to pack for snacks. It's not like you can run to Walmart there if you forget something.
I am excited and nervous. It's a great opportunity to share the Gospel with others, and to provide help. But it's my first time doing something like this. I hope I serve God well down there and am the light He wants me to be.
I don't know if I will be able to update the blog from there - we are supposed to have Internet access, but who knows? If not you'll hear from me when I get back. :-)
This is not a just going on vacation trip. We are bringing medical stuff (Don and other doctors will be seeing patients all next week) and other things, including stuff for us to pack for snacks. It's not like you can run to Walmart there if you forget something.
I am excited and nervous. It's a great opportunity to share the Gospel with others, and to provide help. But it's my first time doing something like this. I hope I serve God well down there and am the light He wants me to be.
I don't know if I will be able to update the blog from there - we are supposed to have Internet access, but who knows? If not you'll hear from me when I get back. :-)
Friday, July 15, 2005
List 5 reasons you are a geek (dork)
List 5 reasons you are a dork. And make them good reasons. Justify them. Explain them. Be loud and proud of how big a dork you are! Then pick the 5 biggest dorks you know and have them do the same.
Ok, Brenda challenged me on this, though I prefer the term, "Geekette."
Sooo...5 reasons...
1) I have built a computer from the case up.
2) I have Star Trek TNG, DS9, and VOY companions PLUS the Star Trek Encyclopedia which I use for references.
3) I have a stuffed Porthos in my office. (Porthos is the beagle in Star Trek: Enterprise)
4) My bookshelves have books from Star Trek, Forgotten Realms, and of course, The Lord of the Rings.
5) I have a Bible program on my PDA that I often use to follow the sermon.
Now...five fellow geeks (I assume they are people who might read this and have blogs...)
Nat, Dale, Evil Bill, Nelson, and even though he doesn't have a blog, Bryan, because he is truly a geek with a capital G.
Ok, Brenda challenged me on this, though I prefer the term, "Geekette."
Sooo...5 reasons...
1) I have built a computer from the case up.
2) I have Star Trek TNG, DS9, and VOY companions PLUS the Star Trek Encyclopedia which I use for references.
3) I have a stuffed Porthos in my office. (Porthos is the beagle in Star Trek: Enterprise)
4) My bookshelves have books from Star Trek, Forgotten Realms, and of course, The Lord of the Rings.
5) I have a Bible program on my PDA that I often use to follow the sermon.
Now...five fellow geeks (I assume they are people who might read this and have blogs...)
Nat, Dale, Evil Bill, Nelson, and even though he doesn't have a blog, Bryan, because he is truly a geek with a capital G.
Thursday, July 14, 2005
He's now legal!
John passed his drivers' test without any trouble. I asked him where he wanted to go, and he said, "Dairy Queen." Worked for me, so we got celebratory Blizzards.
I was a lot calmer going home slurping my French Silk Pie Blizzard. Why hadn't I considered eating chocolate while he was driving sooner? ;-)
I was a lot calmer going home slurping my French Silk Pie Blizzard. Why hadn't I considered eating chocolate while he was driving sooner? ;-)
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Pray for me!
John takes his driver's test tomorrow. I am almost certain he will pass it - he does well.
What I can't figure out is why, since he DOES do well, I am a wreck when he's behind the wheel! Is this just part of being a parent? Is it all the times I saw him handling a bumper car? Is it because his reflexes are superior to mine so he does things I can't?
Anyway, I'll let you know how it turns out. :-)
What I can't figure out is why, since he DOES do well, I am a wreck when he's behind the wheel! Is this just part of being a parent? Is it all the times I saw him handling a bumper car? Is it because his reflexes are superior to mine so he does things I can't?
Anyway, I'll let you know how it turns out. :-)
Monday, July 11, 2005
Steaming mad...
I heard someone on Sean Hannity's radio show today call the United States a terrorist nation. This same woman said years ago that she hoped Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas' wife fed him a lot of eggs and butter so he would get heart disease and die. She says she won't apologize for THAT statement, either.
I get mad when people talk about conservatives being hateful yet someone from the left says something like this and it's OK. When will they call their own into account for what they say?
I get mad when people talk about conservatives being hateful yet someone from the left says something like this and it's OK. When will they call their own into account for what they say?
Monday, July 04, 2005
Building a Computer From the Ground Up 3
It's alive...it's ALIVE!
With a cable provided by our preacher (who has asked I not bug him for 2 weeks in payment) I FINALLY have John's new computer up and running. Windows is installed, and all the drivers.
Right now it is taking up half my workbench in my office. John has taken that over so he can install stuff and try it out. We took the network cable that went to my bedroom and hooked him to the Internet with that.
It means I share my office with my 18 year old for the next month or so. I guess that's not so bad, given he goes away to college in August...
With a cable provided by our preacher (who has asked I not bug him for 2 weeks in payment) I FINALLY have John's new computer up and running. Windows is installed, and all the drivers.
Right now it is taking up half my workbench in my office. John has taken that over so he can install stuff and try it out. We took the network cable that went to my bedroom and hooked him to the Internet with that.
It means I share my office with my 18 year old for the next month or so. I guess that's not so bad, given he goes away to college in August...
Saturday, July 02, 2005
Building a Computer From the Ground Up 2
We got the power working!
(Note to those who might ever get it in their heads to build a computer: they include those golden posts for a REASON! Use them!)
So John and I merrily start installing things now that we know we haven't broken anything. Then we find out the ribbon that attaches drives to the motherboard will plug into the hard drive, or the CD/DVD drive - but not both.
Ok, realize I live in a rural town in Central Florida, which has NO decent computer stores, especially no decent computer stores open on Saturday night. So John and I go to a Radio Shack, get a ribbon there, and think our problem is solved.
John says he can handle it. He plugs the middle plug in the ribbon into the hard drive. Nope, still not long enough. He tried to pull it out. It won't budge. He pulls harder. The plug breaks, part of it still firmly inserted into the back of the hard drive.
This is NOT good.
With pliers, a screwdriver, and a lot of kindness from God, we got the broken plug off the back of the hard drive without turning the hard drive into an expensive paperweight. But we are still without a ribbon. Oh, Bryan...
(Note to those who might ever get it in their heads to build a computer: they include those golden posts for a REASON! Use them!)
So John and I merrily start installing things now that we know we haven't broken anything. Then we find out the ribbon that attaches drives to the motherboard will plug into the hard drive, or the CD/DVD drive - but not both.
Ok, realize I live in a rural town in Central Florida, which has NO decent computer stores, especially no decent computer stores open on Saturday night. So John and I go to a Radio Shack, get a ribbon there, and think our problem is solved.
John says he can handle it. He plugs the middle plug in the ribbon into the hard drive. Nope, still not long enough. He tried to pull it out. It won't budge. He pulls harder. The plug breaks, part of it still firmly inserted into the back of the hard drive.
This is NOT good.
With pliers, a screwdriver, and a lot of kindness from God, we got the broken plug off the back of the hard drive without turning the hard drive into an expensive paperweight. But we are still without a ribbon. Oh, Bryan...
Friday, July 01, 2005
Building a Computer From the Ground Up 1
Oookay.
Well, we got the case open, the CPU and the memory on the motherboard, and the motherboard in the case.
We hooked up all the power supply things we could figure out.
I installed the hard drive and hooked up a monitor and keyboard.
I hit the power switch.
Nothing.
I unplugged and replugged things in, checked the instructions, thought about calling it names, switched power cords...nothing.
It won't turn on. I have no idea why.
I now have a headache and explained to Don that asking me to cook dinner tonight was dangerous.
I'll tackle it again tomorrow.
Well, we got the case open, the CPU and the memory on the motherboard, and the motherboard in the case.
We hooked up all the power supply things we could figure out.
I installed the hard drive and hooked up a monitor and keyboard.
I hit the power switch.
Nothing.
I unplugged and replugged things in, checked the instructions, thought about calling it names, switched power cords...nothing.
It won't turn on. I have no idea why.
I now have a headache and explained to Don that asking me to cook dinner tonight was dangerous.
I'll tackle it again tomorrow.
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