Reflections and the New Year

With 2012 coming fast, I’ve been reflecting on all the things that have happened over the last year.

I kicked my writing butt in gear to get my first book ready to query. Of course, I went through a handful of critiques to hone it into what it is now. The journey was agonizing. Developing a thick skin from crits wasn’t an easy feet at all. Ugh! Crying was a common occurrence. But it helped me to become a better writer.

I learned how to write a query letter as well as the dreaded synopsis. Querying was a battle for me. The ups and downs were awful. There were nights I only wanted to crawl on the couch and vege out, stuffing my face with chocolate.

But it paid off in the end when I achieved my goal to have an agent by the end of 2011. A lofty aspiration, I know! But it miraculously happened. I feel blessed for it and lucky.

I’ve also gained more confidence in my writing skills. Just weeks ago, I wondered how the devil I got an agent. It dawned on me I need to trust that I can write a story worth reading. An agent thinks so and others believe in me, too. It’s time for me to accept that I’m good at this.

I don’t say this in a prideful or pompous way. I am my own worst critic. We all are! It sucks, huh? I only share this to encourage all of you to believe in yourself.

Anyway, 2011 has been a fine year. I have high hopes 2012 will be likewise.

I hope we can all hail in a great 2012! Let’s make this a fantastic year!

What are things about 2011 that have made it a good year for you? What do you want to happen during the coming year?   

Happy New Year!

Writing. Jewels.

Moving. Moving. Moving.

Today's post is going to be on a personal level. No, I'm not going to drag out all the skeletons in my closet, of which are not very many. . . No comment. I'm just going to tell you some great news! After a while of living with my parents, I've moved. Finally! 

I know you are all gasping at that, but hey in other cultures adults live with their parents for their entire lives. I would know cuz I got a degree in Anthropology. So don't give me any crap about it. Bahahaha! The good thing was while living with my parents I was able to pay off some debt that was nagging at me. So all in all it was a super good excuse to have some Mommy and Daddy time. 

Well, I knew it was time to get out of dodge and find my inner independent self again. I've lived away from home many times, though. Let me tell you, the first time I ever left the nest, I moved to England. If that's not a drastic change for a first-time-out-of-the-house-nineteen-year-old girl, what is?

Being in my new place (which is wicked nice) is liberating. I've put my life on hold for far too long and now its time to fly like a bird in a great new life and experiences. I'm going to encounter lots of new people including two room mates I've never met before. It's going to be great. And I'm happy about it! 

And what's even better is it is way closer to where I work. Great for a girl that has a hard time getting her butt out of bed in the morning. 

What new things are going on in your life? Have you had a time where you felt like you've put your life on hold? How did you break free from the chains? 

Well, I better get back to unpacking all my books. Sheesh, I'm glad I had some muscle help me move.

Writing. Jewels.

Aspiring or Author: That is the Question

When I started writing, I referred to myself as an aspiring writer. I do have to say it was quite the aspiration that I never, ever thought I would achieve. Basically, I had an idea for a book, and I started writing it. That was that. For reals, I didn’t think I’d ever get to where I’m at now. But inside, I wanted to have the chance to have lots of people read my book, now books. I desired to inspire others to read through my words as reading had done for me. It was and still is a humongous hope. 

The closer I get, the more I want to see my stories on the shelves at bookstores or listed on Goodreads.

It’s every authors dream, right? That’s just it: an AUTHORS dream.

Lately, I’ve been noticing a lot of people referring to themselves with the title “Aspiring Writer.” But folks, if you write, you ARE an author, no matter what stage you’re at. Don’t slight yourself! Right now, you can refer to yourself with the lovely and prestigious title of AUTHOR.

Have you referred to yourself as an aspiring author in the past? When did you start calling yourself an author? If you are still referring to yourself with the word aspiring, are you ready to step off the ledge and call yourself an author? What are your thoughts on this subject?

I know I’m being blunt, but it is a great reason to be frank, my AUTHOR friends.

Writing. Jewels.

Destiny's Fire by Trisha Wolfe

My talented critique partner and friend, Trisha Wolfe, had her book's cover released yesterday. It's super pretty on a way-beyond-this-universe scale. Gorgeous! I'm gonna share it with you if you haven't seen it yet. Plus, she's a brilliant author! I've had a chance to crit another one of her books and was amazed at her ability to craft a catching story.

Here's the cover for DESTINY'S FIRE coming January 10, 2012.

Stunning! Dazzling! Striking! Huh?

Goodreads Blurb:

Sixteen-year-old Dez Harkly is one of the last of her kind—a part of a nearly extinct race of Kythan descended from ancient guardians who protected the pharaohs of Egypt. As Shythe, they must keep their shape-shifting ability and electric power hidden from the humans of their steam-powered world.

It’s the year 2040 and the Shythe Council has lowered their barrier, allowing the Narcolym—the dominant race of Kythan whose Flame ushered in the steam era—to enter their haven. As the Narcolym airships get closer, Dez secretly trains for an attack that her best friend Jace believes is coming despite the Treaty Act. Not only is Dez wary of war, and her growing affection for Jace, but she fears the change her fast-approaching birthday will bring.

When her power rockets out of control, Dez knows she’ll never attend the Shythe Academy with her friends, and worse, her mother’s planning to run. But a Narco named Reese could change her fate . . . if she can trust him. After Dez discovers why the Narcos have really come to Haven Falls, her guarded world crumbles. She’s forced to choose between the race who’s raised her and the enemy she’s feared her whole life.

DESTINY'S FIRE is an emotional journey of Dez’s struggle to overcome her fear and embrace her power—her destiny.

Check it out, friends!

BTW - What books coming in 2012 are you excited to read?

Writing. Jewels.

Writer's Patience

I have never, ever been a patient person. Just ask my parents. They can definitely attest to my needy ways. I want things. Now. NOW. NOW!

As a writer, you never get things right when you want 'em. What it's called is the awful waiting game. First, the initial writing/editing can take forever. Second, querying can take ages. Waiting for agents to get back to your query, or partials and fulls can be agonizing. It made me turn into an obsessive email checker. I'm still trying to shake the ugly habit. Your life revolves around getting the all-important response.

Getting to the point, over the past week, I've had a huge epiphany that's so against my nature. It scares me lots. I wonder who stole me and where they put my body. Well, folks, I'm learning to be patient. Not only in this area of my life but others, too. If anything, my perspective has changed to I won't get everything right away. I've decided to take a serious chill pill. There's no reason to be a stress bucket as usual. Just breathe and be happy!

I'd say if anyone wants to obtain the virtue of patience, then become a writer. It'll try you more than you could ever think possible.

Writing requires waiting for the right time for those beautiful yes's to come. It may be the hardest thing you'll ever deal with, but will help you to achieve that inner peace or zen desired in life. Embrace the waiting. Love it! Feel it! Cry for it if you must, then pick yourself up and move forward.

One thing that helped me during the waiting was writing my next book straight away. I was able to detach from the manuscript I was querying. Focusing my energy elsewhere proved extremely useful in not getting down. I fell in love with my WIP to the point I was able to cope with the rejections.

Anyway, what's the hardest part about being patient in writing for you? How do you cope with it? What's your advice? 

Fictional Love Triangles: Which Team Are You On?

Love triangles are ever so sweet, don’t you think? Two guys fighting over one girl. Tender, huh? Wouldn’t we all like to be chased after by a couple people at the same time? Aye, Aye! I definitely would. Ok, I’d just like to have one guy chasing after me.

Here are some examples of love triangles in young adult literature:

• Jace—Clary—Simon (The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare)
• Peeta—Katniss—Gale (The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins)
• David—Talley—Zane (Pretties by Scott Westerfeld)
• Ky—Cassia—Xander (Matched by Ally Condie)
• Edward—Bella—Jacob (Twilight by Stephenie Meyer)

As for the last example, it was nice to see the movie Breaking Dawn. Finally, I was able to visually see the nuptials of Bella and Edward. Pardon my spoiler, but who doesn’t know this anyway? 

From the very moment Bella entered Forks High School’s office and Edward smelled her out, I wanted them to be together . . . forever. In my opinion, Jacob just got in the way. If Jacob was meant to be with Bella, it would have been him, not Edward, appearing at the very beginning of the book. Many people out there may beg to differ, so I apologize for any offence. 

No cat fights, please!

Anyway, I’m a Team Edward gal all the way. Always was and always will be.

So are you a Team Edward or a Team Jacob fan? Why? Which fictional love triangles are your favorites? Why?

Writing. Jewels.

Call the Presses: Phenomenal News!!!

I'm officially letting the cat out of the bag (sorry for the lame cliche). I've had this news for a while, but have been holding off telling anyone until . . .

NOW!

Julia King (aka: Writing Jewels) . . . Oh my gosh, I'm writing in the third person. Let me start that over again.

I, as in me, have a literary agent!!!

It all happened on a dark and stormy night when the phone rang . . . Just kidding, but a great start to a wicked awesome story of two years in the making.

I am represented by the lovely Lauren Hammond of ADA Entertainment Group. I feel so blessed to have an agent love my book, FÉLICITÉ FOUND, enough to help me get it into the hands of publishing houses. 

Thanks to all my family, friends, tweeps, co-workers, followers, and all the cute puppies in the world for your support. You've helped me get here. I appreciate my dearest parents for putting up with my writing journey. They are brilliant!

I feel like I won an Oscar Award by thanking so many people!

I want to thank Lauren so much for having faith in my writing skills. It means the world. Merci Beaucoup!

I'm so happy! But I wish all those who are querying agents great luck! Keep on going! There's light at the end of the tunnel! You can do it! Mwah!

Writing. Jewels. Out.

Wheel of Fortunate Editing

Yesterday, I watched an episode of Wheel of Fortune. Yes, Wheel of Fortune, you read correctly. One of the contestants solved the puzzle a bit prematurely. The only problem was he didn’t know the last word.

As I watched the sad moment, I couldn’t help but think about editing. I’m about to start that blessed part of writing—cleaning up the first draft. Tonight will commence this stage of my WIP. This element of writing definitely is not my favorite. I enjoy the creative process of writing the most—piecing together a story from start to finish. But, ya know, unless if you are a writing prodigy (and really, could there be a person like that *laughs*) then it’s a necessary evil.

As I compare this to Wheel of Fortune, it shows the rough draft may need that extra word(s), maybe even lose a bunch of words in order to make it complete—a masterpiece. Thus, my friends, editing is needed.

I’m going to try to loveth to deatheth the experience to make my book as good as it can be before I hand it off to CP’s and betas. One thing that has helped me, though, is I’ve had people critiquing it while I’ve been writing. I’ve been able to gauge it as I go. I knew what it lacked and what was super good about it.

I hope this technique will make sure I don’t have to go through it as many times as I did with Félicité Found, my first book. Yet, with that book, I learned a lot to make my WIP easier to type out.

Anyway, please cheer me on during my first edit of ???. I’m so not giving away the name of this book . . . yet. I’ll leave you in suspense. But I’m going to announce to the blogosphere that I plan on finishing this edit in two weeks. At that time, I will let you know my success in polishing my lovely book.

What's your favorite part of writing? Is it the initial writing, editing, or seeing the piece complete? Maybe it’s a mixture or all stages.

Writing. Jewels. Out.

Writing Anniversaries

As I drove to work this morning, I realized it's been two years since the idea for my first book, FÉLICITÉ FOUND, came together. I'm blown away by the fact that it's been that long. And time has flown so fast I'm not sure if any of it really has happened.

The idea for it came from a short dream that exploded into a book. I would never have thought something like that could change the course of my life forever. I feel blessed to have found my life's passion over the last couple years. And I've been able to imagine up more ideas for many years to come.

What writing anniversaries have you encountered? 

PS: Here is my work Christmas Tree. We decorated it yesterday. It. Is. So. Pretty. *giggles*

Merry Month of December!

Writing. Jewels. Out.

Touch Down at the Finish Line

Last week, I finished the first draft of my WIP. I took the day off work to get it it done, but the closer I got to the end (of the first book in a trilogy), the harder it was to write. I swear it was the first time during the process I had any real form of writer's block. The sad thing is I knew exactly how it was supposed to end. Yet, typing out the words felt forced. 

I finally gave up, ate some lunch, did the dishes, and thought about going at the whole writing escapade again. Nothing came as I stared at the laptop screen. Again, I gave up, throwing myself at the mercy of the couch (or on the couch rather) and flipped on HGTV. Hours and a short nap later, I pulled out the computer again. Still nothing. Argh! So ridiculous not to be able to write, especially when I knew exactly where I wanted to go with it.

I realized it was like someone running a long distance. When they're nearing the finish line, it gets harder to keep going. They start telling themselves if they just make it to the tree way off in the distance then they can stop. Once they get there, they pick another focal point to keep them running.

This is how I felt. I was so blasted close to a finished first draft of my book, but so far away. Crunching out the words became difficult. I couldn't do it even though I only had a few pages left. Yet, I somehow got there just as I was about to quit. 

At that point, I was exhausted. It felt surreal to have all the words on the pages. However, for some reason I felt empty. After contemplating my feelings, I realized I was coming off of a writing high. I'd been typing furiously for so many weeks that not having the creative force pushing me along anymore was depressing.

Now, I get to partake of my most favorite part of writing: editing. Uh, so not my favorite, but it is a necessary evil. I look forward to it, though. I can take the things I know have to be fixed (and CP's have told me as well) and make it super fantastic. 

It's rather rewarding to know I've finished a first draft of book number two. I stash it under my belt, happy I actually got here and so fast, too. I can smile for that!

How have you felt after finishing a first draft?

Writing. Jewels. 

Giving Thanks

After yesterdays huge meal and feeling like I was about the burst at the seams from stuffing myself, I went home from a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner with thoughts in my mind of my family.

The most prominent parts were my nephew's hugs and "I love you, Julia's" that sounded beautifully in my ears. The youngest of the lot has the cutest voice in the world. Hearing him say my name is like angels singing. I love those little guys, but can't forget their little sister, too. Yet, she's not quite at the talking stage other than cute mumbles. 

I am thankful for my family. They are the best in the West. Um, yes I do live in the Western United States. Haha. I love my family lots!

Now, on to a more writing note . . . 

I am extremely thankful for all those who have stuck by me over the past two years while I've struggled through writing two books. These people are family, friends, writing buddies, and followers. You all know who you are! 

I thank you for getting me here. And here is a great place to be.

Mwah! 

I feel blessed in so many ways when it comes to my writing craft. If only I could name them all . . .  But that would take way too much time and blog space.

Thanks! Gracias! Merci! Xie Xie! Arigato! Grazie!

What are you thankful for?

Writing. Jewels. Out.

I Loveth Blogging to Deatheth

Over a year ago I started blogging. I'll be honest, it took me around 10 months to get into the swing of things. And I'm still learning. It hasn't been easy for sure but it's worth it especially because when you are getting into the writing scene, no one knows who you are. A blog is a fantastic way to make yourself known.

There are some intimidating factors I feel play a roll in blogging.

1. Writing content   
2. Getting people to actually follow your bloggy friend
3. Figuring out what it should look like 

I will go through some things I've done to help the process become a little less daunting. 

One: Your blogs content: Pick an audience. Once you've done that, write posts that apply to them. Mine is writers. Now you ask how to figure out what to write. Well, I'm constantly thinking of blog topics. Sometimes they come to me in the middle of the day and I stash them for later use. Other times, like right now, they come to me right as I sit down at the computer. It never ceases to amaze me how many posts I can come up with. If you need to just start writing and it'll come.

Two: Followers: Scary, huh? You are putting yourself out there in intergalactic world for anyone to see. Well, this is good. Love it. Embrace it. This is how you get followers. This also goes back to (one). Write content that they will want to return to. 

I've also done contests to gain a following. Book giveaways, Amazon.com gift cards, etc...

It may take some time, but they'll come. But don't feel bad if no one comments on your posts or there isn't a high number of followers listed on your sidebar. It took me forever to get into the 200's. Even here its hit and miss. 

Plus, you have to market it. I send out a Twitter message and put it on my Facebook page as well as the FB writing group I'm in. How else are people supposed to find out about what you've posted. I also have the URL listed with my email signature.

Another thing is, you've got to be consistent. Pick days of the week that you will always post on. I post on Tuesdays and Fridays. Hopefully people know those are my post days and they'll come visit it to see what's up in my writing world.

Three: The Look: Make sure your blog is easy on the eyes. Its hard to read blogs where there are funky florescent colors and weird fonts. Make it as non-obtrusive as possible. Play around with how you want it to look. I've gone through 4 different styles so far. I think I've finally found one that sings to me. 

Anyway, I hope that my little bit of blogging wisdom has been helpful. 

Now, what are your ideas that will help others with blogging, myself included?

Better Late than Never, Right?

Wow! It's Friday and I haven't posted yet. Many a sorry from me to you! I know you've been waiting in great suspense. Haha.

Anyway, the last couple days have been filled with crazy busyness. Lots of work stuff and writing my WIP and not feeling super good. I just woke up from an I'm-not-feeling-so-hot nap and thought it was Saturday morning already. That made me feel bad because I didn't check in with the blogosphere yet. But alas, it's still Friday and I can say, "Hello!"

Well, last night I saw Breaking Dawn. Eep! It was super good. Yes, the poor person next to me probably wanted to wring my neck for all the giggling, but I couldn't hold it back. Bless people's hearts who have to deal with my while watching movies. Or while I'm reading books. You can't hate me for being a super active watcher of movies and reader of books. It could be thought of as hilarious if you really think about it. 

Well, I'm going to get on my soap box for a minute. Ok, I pretty much hate it when people won't read a book because there's way too much hype about it (ie: Twilight or Harry Potter). Just read 'em, silly people. It's just literature which has probably inspired many a person to read, myself included. You never know, you may just like 'em, too! :D 

*Steps off soap box*

All right, Breaking Dawn was pretty great. A couple cheesy parts but what are you to do? And the end scene was A-FREAKING-AWESOME! Pretty much prime bam-hit-you-in-the-face videography.

Have you seen Breaking Dawn? What were your thoughts?

Well, these are my Friday thoughts—even if they are a little late. Yet, better late than never, right? And I just thought of how funny my blog post title is when put in context with Breaking Dawn—better late than never . . . Get it? Anyway, bye!

Writing. Jewels.

The Countdown Begins

Picture this:

A group of people crowd around an iPad perched upon a desk. All eyes focus hard on the small screen as if it's the last thing they will ever see. A hushed silence presses the air out of their lungs. Breathing becomes heavy, almost desperate. Sweat billows from the nape of their necks. Hearts beat fast. Nerves feel as strong as a lightning storm. Hands clench into fists in eager suspense of what's to come.   

And then . . . The Hunger commences. The Games begin. 

What I've recounted happened yesterday as my coworkers and I joined in a half circle to watch The Hunger Games movie trailer. I can't speak for how the others in my office felt, but I sure had an overwhelming rush of excitement explode through my senses. Enough to make me watch the trailer six times in a row. And enough to make me write a blog post about it.

Now, I can't wait until March 23, 2012 to see the movie for real. I will for sure be at the theater, front and center.

Anyway, what did you think of the trailer? Do the actors match what you felt was the essence of the book's characters?

I am well-pleased with the choices of most of the characters. Although, I envisioned Prim rather differently, smaller and more breakable. But, you can't make everyone happy with the choice of actors for book characters.

But I will enjoy the movie quite a bit, I think. The countdown begins!

Jules. Writes.

Madly in Love with What You Write

On Tuesday, I blogged about an idea for a book that randomly popped into my mind. One of my wonderful writing buddies and good friend, Morgan Shamy, brought something up in her comment that interested me. She expressed that authors have to enjoy and be excited about what they're writing.

Seriously, what's the point of writing if you aren't madly in love with the idea. I can tell you from first hand experience, if I'm not giggling or crying while writing a scene, then I know there's something terribly wrong with where I going with the story.

Authors should enjoy what they're crafting with words. If you aren't, then how will your reader love it and fall deep into the book's world.

Find an idea that keeps you up late at night because you can't stop thinking about it. That is when you know you can and will write a winner. Like my WIP and the idea for my future project, I am overjoyed to write them. They've caused many a sleepless night for me. Even though I'd rather have been asleep dreaming of chipmunks and faeries, it was a delight to get to know my characters, setting, and plot instead.

So, make sure you love what you're writing. If not, think of something else and fast. Why waste time on something that isn't making you smile and jump for joy?

What are your thoughts on this subject? Have you ever had to stop a project because you weren't feeling it? How have you felt when you absolutely adored your story?

A Burst of Inspiration

Have you ever been in a completely normal situation, then BAM, an idea for a book bursts into your head?

That happened to me the other day. It was like I had been transported into another dimension with the premise of the book lightning bolted into my mind. I felt a surge of energy as though I had been plugged into the largest power source known to man—the universe. Bubbles of giddiness made concentrating on the present situation almost impossible. I surrendered to the idea of my next project. Although, it will have to wait until I finish up my current projects—a trilogy in which I've only finished half of the first book. 

Yet, perhaps, I'll pop this project in-between writing the other two. Who knows? Just depends on if I need a short break from my sweet trilogy.

But, alas, an idea is trapped in my mind, awaiting being written into reality. Well, just the initial premise is there, but the rest will come I'm sure in the midst of a sleepless night (how most of my plot thickening experiences take place).

Have you ever had one of these types of experiences? How did it make you feel? And, guys, look around everywhere for ideas for books. You'll never know what might inspire a book!

Design and Writing

Since I was a wee lassie, I’ve enjoyed watching shows about home improvement. Ie: Hometime or This Old House. Nowadays, I really, reaLLY, REALLY love HGTV! Typically, if I’m watching TV, it’s definitely tuned in to that channel. Unless if NCIS is on, of course. I have a tiny-little-maybe-super-huge-gigantic crush on Mark Harmon (Gibbs). *wink’s awkwardly at him* Winking isn’t quite on the list of things I’ve exceled at.

Any who . . . From shows like Color Splash with David Bromstad to Divine Design to Home by Novogratz, I’ve become rather savvy with home décor. I know what looks nice and what doesn’t. If I had a little extra time, I’d probably head off to an interior decorator school. But alas, I haven’t the time for such an awesome degree to be added to my resume.

With all that said, it makes me think about writing. With being an author, I read a lot (as much as I can, but not quite as much as I’d like). It’s through reading that a writer can gain a wealth of knowledge about their craft.

These are things I look for when I’m reading:

• Sentence structure (including grammar and punctuation)
• Dialogue usage
• Beats
• Showing
• Character development
• Plot thickening
• Hooks
• And of course, a great wicked awesome story to revel in!

These things have helped me develop my own writing skills. Like all the HGTV I’ve watched has given me the designer’s eye, feasting upon words has enriched my writing. I pay attention to what I read so it can give me ideas to strengthen my own prose.

What do you pay attention to while reading? How has reading helped your own writing skills? Or, what books have inspired your writing?

NaNoWriMo

It’s November 1, guys, and I’m on Cloud 286 right now! I could pass out! I might just decide to run a marathon! I may very well use exclamation points at the end of every sentence in this post!

Why, you ask?

Because . . .

Today commences my very first National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) experience! It means that I’m super motivated to kick some writing buttocks.

Are you participating? If not, why not? Get on the writing band wagon for heaven sakes and join forces with me, Writing Jewels (aka: Super Jules). If you don’t I will fire sparkly jewels out of my blue eyes that will definitely pinch your bum until you sign up for the challenge.

Basically, NaNoWriMo’s objective is to help you finish a book within the month of November; more specifically to write 50,000 words.

Eep! I’m about to dance around the room with the delight of knowing I’m going to do this. I AM GOING TO DO THIS WITH A HUGE SMILE PLASTERED ON MY FACE!

So, I started writing my WIP in September. My goal was to finish it in 5 months—as in be querying it by the end of the duration of that time. Well, guys with the help of NaNo and some great kick rocking writing buddies, I’m gonna do it! Quite possibly sooner than I expected as well!

Woot Woot!

Now all you need to do is follow this link to sign up to become a NaNoWriMo-ista. Become my buddy on there (just search JuliaWritingJewelsKing and you’ll find me). Let’s write up some dust!

Have you ever participated in a Nano? What has been your experience? Are you going to join forces with me in this adventure? We definitely will make up a secret handshake including an Elaine-esque type dance from Seinfeld and eat ice cream to our tummy’s content. Sigh!

Bring on the words! Bring on the motivation! Bring on tons more exclamation points!

Happy Halloween: Dean Style

I want to wish you all a spookalicious, horrifying, shivers up your spine, agonizing torture, goosebumps on your arms, screaming coming from the forest, hook dangling from your car door handle, blood splattered on the wall, nails scrapping on the chalkboard, crow eating your eyes out, psycho knife killing, zombie gnawing at your leg, ghost haunting, shrieking, pumpkin on fire, trick-or-treating, Edward sucking your blood, and Jacob turning into a wolf Happy Halloween!

Here's one of my favorite scenes from the TV show Supernatural to bring the scariness of Halloween into your day. Pardon it's French! haha (When you click the play button below, you'll have to click watch on YouTube)

Boo!

Typos: The TerribleTerrors

As I go through my writing (WIP, Blog Posts), I find the silliest typos. Sometimes it takes a CP/Beta to catch them. Thank the heavens for editing! Huh?


Here are my most common:

• YOU when I meant YOUR or vice versa
• HE when I meant SHE or vice versa
• AN when I meant AND or vice versa
• ON when I meant IN or vice versa
• HOW when I meant WHO or vice versa
• And, I’ll be honest, an occasional mix up on the THERE when
  I meant THEIR or vice versa (I know the difference, though. Haha)

Spell check doesn’t always catch them because they’re spelled right. *shakes head repeatedly*


I guess my fingers have a mind of their own. I blame it on those blasted synapses. They flood from my brain to my phalanges, resulting in the loss or addition of some letters in the process.


I wonder how writers handled these circumstances in the past when technology wasn’t available. All they had was a quill and parchment. They’d have to rewrite a whole page if they fell prey to an evil typo. By hand. Ugh! It makes me respect authors from ages past all the more. Talk about dedication.


I’m glad I have technology and great CP’s to help me with these issues. I don’t think I’ll ever become a typo free author, but I can sure try to excel at my craft by writing wicked good stories.

What typos are your arch-nemeses? How would you have felt being an author from hundreds of years ago?

Bigger and Better

The other day, I was tweeting back and forth with one of my good friends, author Jack Flacco. Our witty banter turned into us making up a bigger and better story.

The tale began with a panda bear and a monkey eating sushi. Soon the story included pirates carrying around Barbie and Ken dolls. The ship was being stalked by a poisonous anaconda, but with great luck, the boat’s parrot saved the vessel from devastating destruction.

However, the ship was haunted by a monkey (not the monkey that was eating sushi with the panda or the other monkey that got onto the ship without a passport and really needed deodorant). At the next port, the pirates had to find a priest to exorcise the ghostly monkey. Johnny Depp was an option, but the Ken dolls would have been jealous. With the help of a witchdoctor and the Ghostbusters, the Barbie and Ken dolls attacked the monkey until there was nothing left.

Then they all lived happily ever after.

We came up with something quirky and over-the-top during a twenty minute period of time. Regardless of how strange the plot was, it pumped my creativity in to overdrive.

This could be a useful and successful way to pull you out of a bit of writer’s block or just get you in the writing mindset. Plus, it’ll bring some giggles into your day. Take it from me; I was in a laughing fit the whole time.

Next time you need some writing help, call up, tweet, or message a writing buddy and make up a silly story together. In the end, you’ll be super happy and ready to write.

How bout we start a bigger and better story via comments to this post! I’ll start then the first person to comment add onto what I write. Then the next person to comment continue with what was written before and so forth.

• A fish flopped up to a haunted house and knocked it’s head on the front door. The heavy entrance into the home creaked open and . . .

Now it’s your turn to add onto the story . . .

Seasons

As I watch the leaves changing colors on the mountains surrounding the valley where I live and see the leaves piling up on the grass in the yard, I ponder the seasons. 

It brings to mind the different seasons of my life. I’ve gone through my formative years all the way up to high school graduation. Lots of stamps reside in my passport. A university diploma has been obtained. And now I’m in the author season—one in which will swirl throughout the coming seasons of my life.

At the beginning of this ongoing chapter of my life, all I had under my writing belt was the endless research papers I had to write during college. Uh, that certainly wasn’t the most entertaining time of my life. But when I was inspired to write my book Félicité Found and amazingly started plucking away at the keyboard, I started the journey of a life time.

These are some things I’ve learned during this part of my life:

• Actually finishing something that I never thought I’d be able to do
• Having complete adoration for my book
• Learning patience
• Feeling comfortable using the technical elements of writing (grammar and punctuation)
• Being able to craft a story that people really like
• Developing characters to the point where you feel they’re your best friend
• Utilizing dialogue to make the story real
• Editing
• Becoming a social networking-ista (like a fashionista but for social networking)
• Developing and maintaining a blog that I’m proud of
• Becoming good friends with other writers
• Showing, not telling
• Writing a great query letter and synopsis
• Did I mention patience? :) 
• Gaining confidence in my writing skills
• And accepting constructive criticism and rejection

With all these things in mind, I look back over the past two years and see just how far I’ve come. I’ve fallen in love with the written word, if not by writing it, reading it. I’m so grateful I’ve found this excellent skill in my life. It has altered my existence forever. I will never be the same for it. And I like who I’ve become because of it.

Next time you look at the crisp autumnal colors brightening the trees, think about just how far you’ve come in the joyous adventures in your life and the season you’re experiencing now. Embrace them and never, ever let them slip out of your hands.  They are priceless!

How have you grown throughout your present season? Writers, how has becoming an author enriched your life?

Finding THE Name

So, two nights ago, I was struggling to fall asleep. What typically happens when I’m tossing and turning in bed is I begin thinking about writing. During that period of time, I decided to find a name for my WIP. For a couple minutes, I threw around ideas and thought about the essence of my book.

Suddenly, a name popped into my mind. Then the names for the following two books in the trilogy cascaded into existence. I played around with them until they were perfect. Soon, they stuck in my mind like super glue.

A huge smile exploded on my face. I wanted to tell the world because of the joy of finding the name of something so precious to me, something that gives my life meaning. It’s bound to me.

I’m thrilled that it’s no longer called my WIP or the book I’m writing, but it’s called . . .

Sorry, guys, I’m not releasing it out or the last two book’s names quite yet. I’ll leave you in intense suspense. Now, you all must comment telling me to kick my butt into gear to bring my book “. . .” into reality.

Do it! I dare you.

Anyway, how did you find the name of your book(s), short stories, or even your dog’s name? Was it in the thick of the night? On your drive home from work? Or while you were writing?

A Funny for Your Friday

I went to see the play My Fair Lady last night at the Hale Center Theatre in West Valley City, Utah. Great play! Go see it if you live in Utah! Well worth it! By the time I got home I was super tired. Totally forgot to prepare a blog post for today. Due to that, I'm posting a YouTube video that one of my coworkers shared with me a few days ago. It made me laugh so hard I snorted. Yes, I do that! Embarrassingly endearing.

Seriously, what are the chances of this cyclist crash happening? Crazy! I do apologize to the man who the terrible occurrence happened to. I'm sorry I laughed at your misfortune. I hope you're okay! See this is why people must wear helmets.

Have a great Friday and a wonderful weekend! Do you have any fun plans for this weekend? You gonna be typing away at your WIP? Editing? Revising? Or relaxing? I will be watching a scary movie with friends tonight. Tomorrow will be dedicated to my WIP! Woot Woot!

Any who, see you next week!