I was reading on my Kindle the other day at lunch when the boss walked by. He asked if I was reading my own or someone else's book. I had to laugh about it. I don't think I would have written a book or two if I didn't already like reading.
The last two books I've read have been great. And I didn't think about it at the time, but they both had very vengeful wives. One book was Gone Girl, which most people probably know by the recent movie. It was suggested to me at one of my book events. The preface I was given: it seems like 2 possible ways for the book to go, and then it takes a whole different turn you wouldn't expect. I read looking for clues of what might happen, but I wasn't prepared for the major plot twist. A very good book, and I highly recommend it.
The other one I just finished last night, and stayed up late to get to the ending. It was called After the Fire, and I think I read it is the first of a five part series. The general overview: three siblings are on a fire department and are all involved in a major fire. They decide they are going to do something to change their lives after the fire- have a baby, work on family and marriage problems. Fast forward about 6 months and the story picks back up again. There were also some pretty good twists in the plot, and I got to a point where I just couldn't put it down.
I've got two people reading my second book right now as proof readers and to suggest any changes before I send it off to the publisher to start the rounds of changes. The book is due out in May, and I want to have it before Mother's day. There is a lot to do before then, including scheduling more events. With the first year under my belt, I think I will make a few changes to my schedule. It's hard to turn down events, but I do need to limit myself a little bit but also choose events with the most promise.
In case I don't post again before Christmas, I wish everyone the best. My celebrations start this weekend, and I can't wait.
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Becoming 'that' Parent
The holiday hustle is in full swing, and it's clear in the way things are running at home. The boys are wild and crazy, more so than they normally are. Tempers are short and quick to flare. There are messes to be cleaned, and prep work to be done.
That being said, I thought I was making a point to the boys last night about their behavior. Growing up, we had our stockings out the whole month of December, and on occasion, there would be something inside in the morning. This same tradition has been passed on to my boys. The are eager to check if there is something special waiting for them.
I do not like to reward bad behavior, and there has been more than I care to have around here lately. Out shopping, I saw a little bag of coal. It wasn't real coal, just chocolate wrapped to look like coal. Last night, after a rough morning and picking them up from school, I slipped a few into each of their stockings and waited. After bath time, the older one found his, and was excited to get chocolate in his stocking.
"But it's coal," I tried to reason with him. No dice.
Then again this morning, he hoped he would have something in his stocking tonight. Even some chocolate coal.
"You get coal when you've been bad." I had to remind him.
"But it was chocolate, so maybe we were kind of good and kind of bad," was his reply.
The chocolate coal (and I hope the chocolate tasted bad) didn't do the trick, so tonight when the fight erupted shortly after getting home, I tried Plan B.
What is Plan B? The most feared move a parent can do. I took some of their presents from under the tree. It was a warning I gave them when I first put them under the tree. If they touched them or tried to open any present, they would go back to the store. The boys have been good about staying away from the gifts, the large packages with their names are too exciting to lose.
The gifts will eventually go back. After all, this is the time of year for giving, and the gifts I took are clothes. But they don't need to know that.
That being said, I thought I was making a point to the boys last night about their behavior. Growing up, we had our stockings out the whole month of December, and on occasion, there would be something inside in the morning. This same tradition has been passed on to my boys. The are eager to check if there is something special waiting for them.
I do not like to reward bad behavior, and there has been more than I care to have around here lately. Out shopping, I saw a little bag of coal. It wasn't real coal, just chocolate wrapped to look like coal. Last night, after a rough morning and picking them up from school, I slipped a few into each of their stockings and waited. After bath time, the older one found his, and was excited to get chocolate in his stocking.
"But it's coal," I tried to reason with him. No dice.
Then again this morning, he hoped he would have something in his stocking tonight. Even some chocolate coal.
"You get coal when you've been bad." I had to remind him.
"But it was chocolate, so maybe we were kind of good and kind of bad," was his reply.
The chocolate coal (and I hope the chocolate tasted bad) didn't do the trick, so tonight when the fight erupted shortly after getting home, I tried Plan B.
What is Plan B? The most feared move a parent can do. I took some of their presents from under the tree. It was a warning I gave them when I first put them under the tree. If they touched them or tried to open any present, they would go back to the store. The boys have been good about staying away from the gifts, the large packages with their names are too exciting to lose.
The gifts will eventually go back. After all, this is the time of year for giving, and the gifts I took are clothes. But they don't need to know that.
Sunday, December 7, 2014
The one that got away
I purchased a compound bow this summer with the intent of getting good at it and eventually take it hunting. I practiced quite a bit with it, and thought why not get my bow license right away. If I didn't get a deer before the gun season, I would be out $30, but at least I would get out and have more of a chance at getting one. The first night I sat out, I saw more deer than I ever had in my years of gun hunting. It was a different area, and that may be a factor, but I was excited and hooked.
The regular gun season came, and I didn't have a deer yet, so I went opening weekend. The weather was not ideal for hunting, and again I went home empty handed. I had quite a few events in November, and didn't get out again with my bow. I didn't realize the bow season goes from mid-September all the way to the end of the year until a few weeks ago.
My brother was out hunting last week, and told me he has seen deer at a close enough range that I could use my bow to shoot one. Currently, my sights are only set at 20, 25, and 30 yards, so I don't have a real far range to work with. But I decided I would make another trip to the woods.
Yesterday afternoon, I packed up all my hunting things and headed out to the woods. I had to walk to the spot where my brother had sat and looked around. There were tons of tracks from various critters, and I spotted many deer tracks as well. I put my bucket in the weeds, and got myself ready to sit.
I was out for about an hour before I checked the time for the first time. My fingers were getting cold, so I had to open the bucket and get my second pair of gloves out. Another hour passed, and I still hadn't seen anything. The sun went behind the trees, and the temperature dropped more. About 4:30, I was thinking about walking around a patch of woods in the middle of the field. Something told me otherwise, so instead I just stood up.
Another 15 minutes passed, and I looked to the left. A large buck was coming out of the woods. My heart raced. I had told myself no matter what, if I had the chance I was going to take a shot. I had yet to actually get a shot in, waiting for the perfect shot.
Here's where things started going wrong. I didn't use my range finder to see how far away he really was. When I got out there, I had looked around to pick out markings at least so I about what my range was. The hardest thing about seeing a deer is making sure they don't see you. It felt like he was looking right at me more than once. I had my bow up, but I still needed to connect my trigger and draw back.
He took his time walking from the woods, across the field closer to me. I got the trigger connected, but couldn't get the bow pulled back. That's when I should have used my range finder to watch him come into my range. But I didn't. It took all I had to pull the string back, and then I waited. I thought I knew about where my 30 yards mark was, and watched this monster come closer. Finally, I hit my trigger, and made an even bigger mistake. I closed my eyes.
The arrow missed him completely, flying in front of him. The twang from the bow caught his attention, and I watched him run back into the woods. The speed and ease let me know I didn't hit him at all. I let my heartbeat slow down, and then went in search of my arrow to confirm how badly I had missed him.
I am very protective of my hunting gear, knowing the cost that goes into it. I have cheaper arrows, but they still cost around $7 just for the arrow, and another $7 or so for the broadhead. I don't want to lose them. The snow made it easier to find, and it was clean. I stood watching the woods for another ten minutes before going back to my seat and packing up.
I'll go back out hopefully this week or next. Just getting to see something and taking a shot brings all the excitement back. I still have a few weeks to hunt, and it might be just enough time to add some meat to the freezer.
The regular gun season came, and I didn't have a deer yet, so I went opening weekend. The weather was not ideal for hunting, and again I went home empty handed. I had quite a few events in November, and didn't get out again with my bow. I didn't realize the bow season goes from mid-September all the way to the end of the year until a few weeks ago.
My brother was out hunting last week, and told me he has seen deer at a close enough range that I could use my bow to shoot one. Currently, my sights are only set at 20, 25, and 30 yards, so I don't have a real far range to work with. But I decided I would make another trip to the woods.
Yesterday afternoon, I packed up all my hunting things and headed out to the woods. I had to walk to the spot where my brother had sat and looked around. There were tons of tracks from various critters, and I spotted many deer tracks as well. I put my bucket in the weeds, and got myself ready to sit.
I was out for about an hour before I checked the time for the first time. My fingers were getting cold, so I had to open the bucket and get my second pair of gloves out. Another hour passed, and I still hadn't seen anything. The sun went behind the trees, and the temperature dropped more. About 4:30, I was thinking about walking around a patch of woods in the middle of the field. Something told me otherwise, so instead I just stood up.
Another 15 minutes passed, and I looked to the left. A large buck was coming out of the woods. My heart raced. I had told myself no matter what, if I had the chance I was going to take a shot. I had yet to actually get a shot in, waiting for the perfect shot.
Here's where things started going wrong. I didn't use my range finder to see how far away he really was. When I got out there, I had looked around to pick out markings at least so I about what my range was. The hardest thing about seeing a deer is making sure they don't see you. It felt like he was looking right at me more than once. I had my bow up, but I still needed to connect my trigger and draw back.
He took his time walking from the woods, across the field closer to me. I got the trigger connected, but couldn't get the bow pulled back. That's when I should have used my range finder to watch him come into my range. But I didn't. It took all I had to pull the string back, and then I waited. I thought I knew about where my 30 yards mark was, and watched this monster come closer. Finally, I hit my trigger, and made an even bigger mistake. I closed my eyes.
The arrow missed him completely, flying in front of him. The twang from the bow caught his attention, and I watched him run back into the woods. The speed and ease let me know I didn't hit him at all. I let my heartbeat slow down, and then went in search of my arrow to confirm how badly I had missed him.
I am very protective of my hunting gear, knowing the cost that goes into it. I have cheaper arrows, but they still cost around $7 just for the arrow, and another $7 or so for the broadhead. I don't want to lose them. The snow made it easier to find, and it was clean. I stood watching the woods for another ten minutes before going back to my seat and packing up.
I'll go back out hopefully this week or next. Just getting to see something and taking a shot brings all the excitement back. I still have a few weeks to hunt, and it might be just enough time to add some meat to the freezer.
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Time Flies
It's unreal how soon Christmas will be here. I spent most of the weekend getting our house ready for the holidays. The tree is up and there are presents under it, the nativity is out, lights hung on the outside of the house, and my first batch of cookies made. I've also been working on some homemade ornaments for gifts.
This time of year is always fun with young children in your life. The boys are still little enough to easily surprise. They have been eagerly checking their stockings, wondering what Santa will leave them. I'm waiting for them to write a letter to Santa to find out what they want from him for Christmas.
It might be a sign of getting older, but I have more fun seeing them get presents than receiving gifts myself. It's a good thing. I know Christmas won't be this special forever, so I plan on enjoying it as much as I can. I am also very excited to spend Christmas day at home with my family. We usually have somewhere else to be, and with having to work the day after this year, the time at home is even more important.
There are more cookies to be made, but tonight is a rest night :)
This time of year is always fun with young children in your life. The boys are still little enough to easily surprise. They have been eagerly checking their stockings, wondering what Santa will leave them. I'm waiting for them to write a letter to Santa to find out what they want from him for Christmas.
It might be a sign of getting older, but I have more fun seeing them get presents than receiving gifts myself. It's a good thing. I know Christmas won't be this special forever, so I plan on enjoying it as much as I can. I am also very excited to spend Christmas day at home with my family. We usually have somewhere else to be, and with having to work the day after this year, the time at home is even more important.
There are more cookies to be made, but tonight is a rest night :)
Saturday, November 15, 2014
I had a blast at my last library event. Ok, it wasn't actually in the library, but was sponsored by them. We met at the White Rabbit Cafe in Cold Spring, and even with a small group, had a good time. I enjoy talking about writing and the process with anyone interested. There was an aspiring author at the cafe, and I think the two of us will talk more in the future.
One good thing that may come out of the night is a new writer's group to be hosted by the White Rabbit. We'll have to see if there is enough interest first, but it would be great to have other people to meet with and bounce an idea off of. There aren't a lot of groups in this area, so we may have quite a bit of interest.
As I stand in my kitchen writing this, I am also watching the light snow flakes fall. It will be a good day for writing and maybe some baking. I have some squash in the fridge that I could make into bread or maybe some cookies.
One good thing that may come out of the night is a new writer's group to be hosted by the White Rabbit. We'll have to see if there is enough interest first, but it would be great to have other people to meet with and bounce an idea off of. There aren't a lot of groups in this area, so we may have quite a bit of interest.
As I stand in my kitchen writing this, I am also watching the light snow flakes fall. It will be a good day for writing and maybe some baking. I have some squash in the fridge that I could make into bread or maybe some cookies.
Thursday, October 30, 2014
Book #2 and Other updates
I met with the publisher the other day to talk about my second book. They are prepared to publish the book in May of this next year. I have quite a few things to do by the end of the year, like pick out the cover and get the final manuscript to them. It's a very exciting time.
One thing I would like to do differently this time is have 2-3 people proofread the book before I send it in, and then again before agreeing to the final proof. Extra eyes are beneficial, and there might be a free book in it for the readers.
I've also put in an application to join a fire department. I am very excited to see how that goes, and hopefully get accepted. The longer I have been around people on various departments, the more it has interested me. Can you tell? I've written two books connected to the industry now :) The initial training might take me away from doing so many events, but once I get my certifications, I'll be able to do more again.
One thing I would like to do differently this time is have 2-3 people proofread the book before I send it in, and then again before agreeing to the final proof. Extra eyes are beneficial, and there might be a free book in it for the readers.
I've also put in an application to join a fire department. I am very excited to see how that goes, and hopefully get accepted. The longer I have been around people on various departments, the more it has interested me. Can you tell? I've written two books connected to the industry now :) The initial training might take me away from doing so many events, but once I get my certifications, I'll be able to do more again.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Long time, no see
I didn't realize how long it's been since I've updated here. This is my favorite time of year, and I tend to stay rather busy. We just got back from a nice little vacation. Brian and I went to Vegas for a few days. I don't think the boys missed us too much, but they were happy to get gifts :)
This weekend starts another round of book events for me. Saturday I am going to be at the St. Cloud Armory for a fall craft and vendor show. I hope it's a good sales day. The next weekend, I am going to be at Generations Ballroom in Kimball for another show. I also have 3 library events in November. Richmond on the 3rd, The White Rabbit Cafe (Cold Spring Library event), and the St. Cloud library on the 17th.
I haven't done a whole lot of writing, but plan on working on the next story some more. I think my 'writer's block' is a little show called True Blood, and once I finally finish the series, I will be able to focus. I've been thinking about the story frequently, so I do have some ideas to work with at least.
This weekend starts another round of book events for me. Saturday I am going to be at the St. Cloud Armory for a fall craft and vendor show. I hope it's a good sales day. The next weekend, I am going to be at Generations Ballroom in Kimball for another show. I also have 3 library events in November. Richmond on the 3rd, The White Rabbit Cafe (Cold Spring Library event), and the St. Cloud library on the 17th.
I haven't done a whole lot of writing, but plan on working on the next story some more. I think my 'writer's block' is a little show called True Blood, and once I finally finish the series, I will be able to focus. I've been thinking about the story frequently, so I do have some ideas to work with at least.
Friday, October 3, 2014
Birthday Weekend Special!
I am celebrating my birthday on Saturday and wanted to offer a sale on my book. This weekend only, you can order my book for $10 instead of the usual $14.95. I will also honor this at my events this weekend. I will add the link for the sales price tonight when I get home from work.
*Updated @ 6 pm. This little button below was a bugger to get on here. I will keep it available until Monday morning, and then my special price will be gone :)
*Updated @ 6 pm. This little button below was a bugger to get on here. I will keep it available until Monday morning, and then my special price will be gone :)
Monday, September 29, 2014
Fall is here!
This is by far my favorite time of year. It's getting cooler out, the leaves are falling and it's time to think about those hearty fall/winter foods. I have been craving chili for a few weeks, and with the temps getting back to the 60's this week, I might finally make a batch.
I have a few more events lined up for October. This upcoming weekend I will be at the Millner Heritage Winery Grape Stomp. I've never attended in the past, but have heard great things about it. Saturday is also my birthday and a good friend's wedding, so I will have to make it a short book event. After a nice vacation, I am also going to be at the St. Cloud Armory on the 25th.
My aunt sent me a nice little message this morning that the Hutchinson paper had an article about me and my first book. Back when I interviewed with the Litchfield Leader, the person interviewing me had mentioned sharing it with their sister paper in Hutch. I guess I knew it was a possibility, just wasn't sure if or when it would be published.
This past week also added one event to January. I will be back at the Waite Park Library for an author round table. I am also considering a ladies night out in Annandale in December. I have also gone back to doing some more writing, and will continue as it gets cooler outside. There are few things that beat wrapping up on the couch with a quilt and my computer.
I have a few more events lined up for October. This upcoming weekend I will be at the Millner Heritage Winery Grape Stomp. I've never attended in the past, but have heard great things about it. Saturday is also my birthday and a good friend's wedding, so I will have to make it a short book event. After a nice vacation, I am also going to be at the St. Cloud Armory on the 25th.
My aunt sent me a nice little message this morning that the Hutchinson paper had an article about me and my first book. Back when I interviewed with the Litchfield Leader, the person interviewing me had mentioned sharing it with their sister paper in Hutch. I guess I knew it was a possibility, just wasn't sure if or when it would be published.
This past week also added one event to January. I will be back at the Waite Park Library for an author round table. I am also considering a ladies night out in Annandale in December. I have also gone back to doing some more writing, and will continue as it gets cooler outside. There are few things that beat wrapping up on the couch with a quilt and my computer.
Thursday, September 18, 2014
Back in Action
Tonight I had my first event in just over a month. I was at the Litchfield library. The nice weather and sporting events may have kept some people away, but I had the opportunity to chat with a young writer. She was full of questions, and it was fun to talk about our craft. The librarian from another library I have been at also met me there, and had a gift for me. She made a bag with a fire truck fabric. She said is spoke to her at the quilt shop. As a quilter, I know the feeling.
There's lots going on around home. The garden is just about done. I'm waiting for my tomatoes to finish up so I can make some salsa before I pull everything out. All my practice with my bow can finally be used now that the deer bow season has opened. Brian has even helped me make a ground blind and gave me a camo jacket. The boys are excited with the idea of Mom getting a deer with her bow :) I've got a lot to live up to!
My next event is next weekend. I will be at the Westwood Church in St. Cloud. After that, I am back to around 4 events a month until December. It's hard to know how much I want to plan when there are so many holiday events I would like to be doing with my family. It's kind of sad to think Christmas is only 90 so days away now! My book makes a great gift (I had to add that).
There's lots going on around home. The garden is just about done. I'm waiting for my tomatoes to finish up so I can make some salsa before I pull everything out. All my practice with my bow can finally be used now that the deer bow season has opened. Brian has even helped me make a ground blind and gave me a camo jacket. The boys are excited with the idea of Mom getting a deer with her bow :) I've got a lot to live up to!
My next event is next weekend. I will be at the Westwood Church in St. Cloud. After that, I am back to around 4 events a month until December. It's hard to know how much I want to plan when there are so many holiday events I would like to be doing with my family. It's kind of sad to think Christmas is only 90 so days away now! My book makes a great gift (I had to add that).
Friday, September 5, 2014
Week of Interviews
I spent two of my lunch breaks this week on the phone doing interviews about my book. The first one was with 1420 AM out of Litchfield. I spoke with Tim, the news guy, who recorded our phone call and will be airing it at about 8:20 on September 10th, and advertising/mentioning my event at the Litchfield library scheduled for September 18th. It was strange being on the phone, pretending we were live. I'm sure I said 'so' a lot more than I normally would.
Today I talked to Andrew at the Independent Review in Litchfield, also to talk about my event with the library. He's going to run an article on me and Moving On, but I need to find out when it will be published. I'd like to get a copy when it comes out. It was a long interview, and he asked a lot of questions. I just hope my answers made sense.
I'm thinking about adding another event to October, and look ahead to December. The holidays will be here before we know it and my book makes a great gift- just had to throw that out there :)
Next week, I am taking a few days off of work and going on a ladies' retreat. Most of the people at camp are into scrapbooking, but my mom and I bring our sewing machines. I've been trying to decide what projects to bring. It would also be a good time to do some writing and editing. Some time away to unwind is long overdue.
Today I talked to Andrew at the Independent Review in Litchfield, also to talk about my event with the library. He's going to run an article on me and Moving On, but I need to find out when it will be published. I'd like to get a copy when it comes out. It was a long interview, and he asked a lot of questions. I just hope my answers made sense.
I'm thinking about adding another event to October, and look ahead to December. The holidays will be here before we know it and my book makes a great gift- just had to throw that out there :)
Next week, I am taking a few days off of work and going on a ladies' retreat. Most of the people at camp are into scrapbooking, but my mom and I bring our sewing machines. I've been trying to decide what projects to bring. It would also be a good time to do some writing and editing. Some time away to unwind is long overdue.
Monday, September 1, 2014
Not the Labor Day Weekend I was Expecting
It has been a sometimes long, stressful weekend. We finally had our house warming party, about a year later. Friday night I had to get the food, Saturday we had a birthday party and kept getting things ready. Yesterday was the party and it rained! Thankfully, Brian was able to patch the holes in the sheet rock in the garage and paint it (he started that project Thursday night) so we had a nice clean garage to party in.
I was mad about the rain, not only because we couldn't be outside, but I have been looking out the window at a huge pile to burn, and yesterday was the day but it didn't happen. We had about an inch and a half of rain just yesterday afternoon and evening. Knowing there are plenty of critters making the pile a home, I really want to light a match and get it burnt so they don't decide to move in with me.
I didn't have much planned for today, and the way it turned out, that was a good thing. I wanted to get some quilt pieces cut for my weekend away in 2 weeks, and shoot my bow a bit. About 8:20 this morning, the pager went off, and I listened to the page- a garage fire. The address: my brother's house. I was a little more alarmed, because their attached garage is a tuck over (part of the garage is under their living room). It scared me more that my sister-in-law had talked about going shopping and leaving my niece and nephew home with my brother. I tried calling and texting them both, and she called me back to let me know she was at the neighbor's house with the kids.
After Brian came home from the call, I loaded up the boys, and we went to their house. It was truly a sign of how wonderful our small-town community can be. One of the neighbors was dropping off coolers of food, another was helping pull things out of the garage. Another was watching the kids of the families there to help. Someone else had let my sister-in-law shower at their house. Many of the guys from the fire department had returned to the house to help tear out the water soaked drywall and insulation.
The fire was along the back wall of their two stall garage, right in the middle. A few more feet to the right, and it would have been directly under their living room. They were sleeping when someone passing by knocked on the door and told them about the fire. The smoke alarms in the house didn't go off, but the one in the garage was completely melted. There is no doubt, it could have been much worse. By the end of the afternoon, a new garage door was in place, the melted and burned items were in a dump trailer, and the items they might be able to still use were also loaded up.
I was mad about the rain, not only because we couldn't be outside, but I have been looking out the window at a huge pile to burn, and yesterday was the day but it didn't happen. We had about an inch and a half of rain just yesterday afternoon and evening. Knowing there are plenty of critters making the pile a home, I really want to light a match and get it burnt so they don't decide to move in with me.
I didn't have much planned for today, and the way it turned out, that was a good thing. I wanted to get some quilt pieces cut for my weekend away in 2 weeks, and shoot my bow a bit. About 8:20 this morning, the pager went off, and I listened to the page- a garage fire. The address: my brother's house. I was a little more alarmed, because their attached garage is a tuck over (part of the garage is under their living room). It scared me more that my sister-in-law had talked about going shopping and leaving my niece and nephew home with my brother. I tried calling and texting them both, and she called me back to let me know she was at the neighbor's house with the kids.
After Brian came home from the call, I loaded up the boys, and we went to their house. It was truly a sign of how wonderful our small-town community can be. One of the neighbors was dropping off coolers of food, another was helping pull things out of the garage. Another was watching the kids of the families there to help. Someone else had let my sister-in-law shower at their house. Many of the guys from the fire department had returned to the house to help tear out the water soaked drywall and insulation.
The fire was along the back wall of their two stall garage, right in the middle. A few more feet to the right, and it would have been directly under their living room. They were sleeping when someone passing by knocked on the door and told them about the fire. The smoke alarms in the house didn't go off, but the one in the garage was completely melted. There is no doubt, it could have been much worse. By the end of the afternoon, a new garage door was in place, the melted and burned items were in a dump trailer, and the items they might be able to still use were also loaded up.
Monday, August 25, 2014
Time for Typing
I have been working some on a new book, which is exciting for me. It's fun to come up with new characters and situations. There is more of me in this female lead than I may want to admit. She is a very strong willed gal, but has a softer side that will break out at some point in the book.
I'm not sure if it's evolution in my writing or what exactly it would be, but I have listened to different music with each book written. The first- Moving On, was Cake, Weezer, and the like. The second book, Trying, it was more current alternative rock/girl music. Now I'm hooked on Ed Sheeran and John Mayer on Pandora. I love putting in my ear buds and blocking the world out so I can write.
We took the boys to the state fair over the weekend. That was an adventure. The biggest hit with them was the DNR building where they had fish and taxidermy animals. Guess my renewed interest in the outdoors is rubbing off on them.
I'm not sure if it's evolution in my writing or what exactly it would be, but I have listened to different music with each book written. The first- Moving On, was Cake, Weezer, and the like. The second book, Trying, it was more current alternative rock/girl music. Now I'm hooked on Ed Sheeran and John Mayer on Pandora. I love putting in my ear buds and blocking the world out so I can write.
We took the boys to the state fair over the weekend. That was an adventure. The biggest hit with them was the DNR building where they had fish and taxidermy animals. Guess my renewed interest in the outdoors is rubbing off on them.
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Now that our summer is coming to an end, and things are slowing down a little bit, I have been able to find time to get myself organized. I've had the start of my next book for most of the summer, but I've been stuck in the same spot for a while. Last night I found time to make my character outlines, and have a better feel for what I want to write. If I get out of the garden fast enough tonight, I might even get a few more pages written.
My break in events will be short lived, which is good and bad. I am adding to my Events page as I get dates finalized. The most recent addition is the Richmond library in November. I was also contacted by the Cold Spring and St. Cloud libraries, but we don't have dates set yet.
My first official book review was posted on Facebook today, and should also show on Amazon and Twitter. Thanks to 2 Indie Girls for the review!
My break in events will be short lived, which is good and bad. I am adding to my Events page as I get dates finalized. The most recent addition is the Richmond library in November. I was also contacted by the Cold Spring and St. Cloud libraries, but we don't have dates set yet.
My first official book review was posted on Facebook today, and should also show on Amazon and Twitter. Thanks to 2 Indie Girls for the review!
Friday, August 8, 2014
Weekend Goal and Other Information
I might regret staying up late tonight knowing how long of a day I have ahead tomorrow. Tonight kicked-off our town festival- Kimball Days. I took on running the Craft & Vendor Fair this year, so I have to get out there early tomorrow to get myself set-up before the vendors start showing up. We have 21 spaces paid for, and that is close to a record number. I've got a few other authors coming out too, and I'm excited to meet them and hear about their books.
My goal for my booth is to sell 20 books. If I hit 20, I will donate $100 to the Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial in St. Paul. Random bit of information: there have been 208 line of duty deaths in Minnesota since 1881. One of those was from Kimball.
The beer sales and softball tournaments this weekend will keep the people on our fire department busy, and some of the spouses. I've signed up for 3 shifts this year. I don't expect to see the hubby too much. He's not only in charge of the whole Kimball Days as the chair of the committee, he's also one of the main people from the fire department running the beer sales. If I'm lucky, I will get to have a meal with him tomorrow.
I added another library event to my schedule for this fall, and have 2 more getting set-up. There are also 2 book stores who have contacted me about setting up signings. After the major push this summer, I am looking forward to a few less events and more time writing the next book. I might have to change the name of one of my characters since we just hired someone at work with the same name.
I was lucky enough to be featured in the Annandale Advocate this week with my book. They also purchased some books from me to sell and will put the book cover in filler ads as they have space. The article was very nice, and I've heard a lot of feedback on it. I am thankful they published the story and for the good press.
My goal for my booth is to sell 20 books. If I hit 20, I will donate $100 to the Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial in St. Paul. Random bit of information: there have been 208 line of duty deaths in Minnesota since 1881. One of those was from Kimball.
The beer sales and softball tournaments this weekend will keep the people on our fire department busy, and some of the spouses. I've signed up for 3 shifts this year. I don't expect to see the hubby too much. He's not only in charge of the whole Kimball Days as the chair of the committee, he's also one of the main people from the fire department running the beer sales. If I'm lucky, I will get to have a meal with him tomorrow.
I added another library event to my schedule for this fall, and have 2 more getting set-up. There are also 2 book stores who have contacted me about setting up signings. After the major push this summer, I am looking forward to a few less events and more time writing the next book. I might have to change the name of one of my characters since we just hired someone at work with the same name.
I was lucky enough to be featured in the Annandale Advocate this week with my book. They also purchased some books from me to sell and will put the book cover in filler ads as they have space. The article was very nice, and I've heard a lot of feedback on it. I am thankful they published the story and for the good press.
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Ahhhhhh, time to relax!
After I realized how crazy busy my next two weeks would be, I decided to take a day off from my full-time job to relax a bit before the madness starts. I do fully understand that when I get to work Monday morning, I might not be able to see my desk, but I need a mental day. I have 3 events this weekend, and a few other plans.
I'm excited for Friday- the Braham Pie Festival. From what I've found online, the town is only about 1,800 people, and the festival brings in over five thousand people. That's a huge event for the town. Of course, at some point in the day, I will have to get a piece of pie. It is the pie festival for a reason. I'll be sharing a booth with another North Star Press author who I haven't met yet, but do know she writes mysteries.
Saturday is looking to be my longest day. I start in the morning at the Clearwater Craft & Flea Market, then head to Willmar for an author round table in the afternoon, and that evening is the Watkins Kraut and Wurst where I will be volunteering with our fire department. I'm not sure if we are in the food or beer stand this year, but both are a good time with friends.
So far, I have sold about a third of the books I purchased upfront from the publisher. I feel pretty good about that number, and hope this weekend gives me a nice boost. I have started to look for more events this fall and winter since after mid-August, I only have 2 events planned. It will be nice to have a little break too, since we have to get ready for back to school and hopefully have a house warming party- only about a year late.
I'm excited for Friday- the Braham Pie Festival. From what I've found online, the town is only about 1,800 people, and the festival brings in over five thousand people. That's a huge event for the town. Of course, at some point in the day, I will have to get a piece of pie. It is the pie festival for a reason. I'll be sharing a booth with another North Star Press author who I haven't met yet, but do know she writes mysteries.
Saturday is looking to be my longest day. I start in the morning at the Clearwater Craft & Flea Market, then head to Willmar for an author round table in the afternoon, and that evening is the Watkins Kraut and Wurst where I will be volunteering with our fire department. I'm not sure if we are in the food or beer stand this year, but both are a good time with friends.
So far, I have sold about a third of the books I purchased upfront from the publisher. I feel pretty good about that number, and hope this weekend gives me a nice boost. I have started to look for more events this fall and winter since after mid-August, I only have 2 events planned. It will be nice to have a little break too, since we have to get ready for back to school and hopefully have a house warming party- only about a year late.
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
New Ideas
Last weekend, I did a two day event at Millner Heritage Winery in Kimball. It was nice and close, and the price was right. Saturday I had one other author with me, and Sunday two different ladies joined me. I've got to say, they gave me a lot to think about and some very useful information on where to sell, who to talk to, and ideas for things I hadn't thought about.
My sales were pretty decent too. The people purchasing came as a surprise in some cases, like the older gentleman who was once a Minneapolis fireman. He even had me personalize it with his name, so I know it wasn't a gift.
I've been busy at home outside, so there hasn't been a lot of spare time to write or work on lining up more events for this fall, but I am hoping to get more of both done in the next week. August 1-13 I have 6 book events, and several other personal and family items on the calendar. I have a feeling life will be a blur.
My sales were pretty decent too. The people purchasing came as a surprise in some cases, like the older gentleman who was once a Minneapolis fireman. He even had me personalize it with his name, so I know it wasn't a gift.
I've been busy at home outside, so there hasn't been a lot of spare time to write or work on lining up more events for this fall, but I am hoping to get more of both done in the next week. August 1-13 I have 6 book events, and several other personal and family items on the calendar. I have a feeling life will be a blur.
Saturday, July 5, 2014
Summer finally here?
It's sad when on July 1st, I was working in my garden wearing pants and a sweatshirt. The weather sure has been strange this year, but it's beginning to finally feel like summer, and not a moment too soon.
I hadn't paid much attention, but my July events all have something to do with alcohol. July 10th, I am at Glacial Ridge Winery for their summer concert series. July 17th, I am doing what I call a Wine and Sign at Payless Liquor in St. Cloud. They are going to have wine samples that afternoon while I sign my books. And then the last thing I have scheduled is at Millner Heritage Winery just south of Kimball July 19-20th. They have their annual celebration- free music and wine samples. I think they also do tours those days. There will be other authors with me both days, so that is an added bonus.
Oh yeah, and my blog has reached 1,500 views! Thanks to everyone for checking in on my posts. I hope everyone had a great and safe 4th and continue to enjoy the weekend.
I hadn't paid much attention, but my July events all have something to do with alcohol. July 10th, I am at Glacial Ridge Winery for their summer concert series. July 17th, I am doing what I call a Wine and Sign at Payless Liquor in St. Cloud. They are going to have wine samples that afternoon while I sign my books. And then the last thing I have scheduled is at Millner Heritage Winery just south of Kimball July 19-20th. They have their annual celebration- free music and wine samples. I think they also do tours those days. There will be other authors with me both days, so that is an added bonus.
Oh yeah, and my blog has reached 1,500 views! Thanks to everyone for checking in on my posts. I hope everyone had a great and safe 4th and continue to enjoy the weekend.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Book Events
I have a little break until my next event, and I'm trying to get a few things caught up before then. The next thing on my schedule is on July 10th at Glacial Ridge Winery. I'm excited to see what the winery is like, I've never been to that one before. In the meantime, I want to add some info to my bookmarks, trim my banner, and send info out to some libraries or other venues so I can start adding events to my fall schedule.
This last weekend, I was up in Park Rapids at the Sister Wolf Bookstore. Well, actually it was Dorset, but if you blink driving through, you would miss the whole place. The store was great, and they had brought in close to a total of 30 authors for the day. I enjoyed talking with the customers and the authors. It's amazing what others have created, and the work they have poured into their books. I'm also amazed at the number of people who attend events and are authors. One older gentleman and his wife were talking about his writing to me, and she said she can't throw out any papers in fear there is something he jotted down on the piece. I don't think I could handle that. I would lose something.
I did learn some useful information from another romance author at the event. Her name is Deb Jensen, and I have to admit, I want to get her book after meeting her and hearing about the story. She gave me some tips on events and offered suggestions on a few awards to apply for. It would be really cool to have an award-winning novel....
Last week I also submitted my first book review through 2 indie girls. You can read more about the novel I reviewed at their website: http://2indiegirls.weebly.com/book-reviews.html or on their Facebook page.
This last weekend, I was up in Park Rapids at the Sister Wolf Bookstore. Well, actually it was Dorset, but if you blink driving through, you would miss the whole place. The store was great, and they had brought in close to a total of 30 authors for the day. I enjoyed talking with the customers and the authors. It's amazing what others have created, and the work they have poured into their books. I'm also amazed at the number of people who attend events and are authors. One older gentleman and his wife were talking about his writing to me, and she said she can't throw out any papers in fear there is something he jotted down on the piece. I don't think I could handle that. I would lose something.
I did learn some useful information from another romance author at the event. Her name is Deb Jensen, and I have to admit, I want to get her book after meeting her and hearing about the story. She gave me some tips on events and offered suggestions on a few awards to apply for. It would be really cool to have an award-winning novel....
Last week I also submitted my first book review through 2 indie girls. You can read more about the novel I reviewed at their website: http://2indiegirls.weebly.com/book-reviews.html or on their Facebook page.
Saturday, June 28, 2014
Park Rapids
I am looking forward to my event today. Park Rapids has a festival of Artists and Authors, and I managed to get in. The part I'm not as excited for: the drive. It should be an easy drive, but I will be spending more time in the car than at the event. Hopefully, my Pandora stays connected, and I have decent music the whole time.
Events like today work different than say a vendor fair. In a way, today is a breeze for me. The bookstore handles the sales, and all I have to do is show up and sign my book. Since the store takes care of the money, I will only get royalties, and see them at my bi-annual payout. A vendor fair is different because I do all the work, but also get paid for it right away. Either way, people get my book and get to chat with me.
I feel like I need to work on my small talk skills. I've spent a lot of time at work away from people, and now going to events I have a harder time thinking about what to talk about. The weather is always one thing to start with. Maybe what they like to read or the last book they purchased. I guess that's something I can think about in the car :)
Events like today work different than say a vendor fair. In a way, today is a breeze for me. The bookstore handles the sales, and all I have to do is show up and sign my book. Since the store takes care of the money, I will only get royalties, and see them at my bi-annual payout. A vendor fair is different because I do all the work, but also get paid for it right away. Either way, people get my book and get to chat with me.
I feel like I need to work on my small talk skills. I've spent a lot of time at work away from people, and now going to events I have a harder time thinking about what to talk about. The weather is always one thing to start with. Maybe what they like to read or the last book they purchased. I guess that's something I can think about in the car :)
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Survived My first Vendor show
Yesterday was my first vendor show. I think had the weather been rainy or cold, there would have been a whole lot more people out. I can't say I blame them. I would have loved to be outside as well instead of inside the mall. I did sell a few books, so it wasn't a total loss.
I've also had many people congratulate me on the article published by my local paper. They had a few pictures and a very nice write-up about me and my first book. My dad had to get a few copies to show off. I think he's a little proud :)
As if I don't already have enough to do, I decided to volunteer myself to be a romance book reviewer for 2 indie girls. They have a Facebook page (I suggest following them if you're into that sort of thing) and a blog, from what I understand. I'm excited to find out what they will have me read first.
Off to enjoy the rest of my night!
I've also had many people congratulate me on the article published by my local paper. They had a few pictures and a very nice write-up about me and my first book. My dad had to get a few copies to show off. I think he's a little proud :)
As if I don't already have enough to do, I decided to volunteer myself to be a romance book reviewer for 2 indie girls. They have a Facebook page (I suggest following them if you're into that sort of thing) and a blog, from what I understand. I'm excited to find out what they will have me read first.
Off to enjoy the rest of my night!
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Second Event
Last night was the St. Cloud Art Crawl. Books Revisited was nice enough to ask my publisher to invite some authors to their store for book signings during the crawl. It was a beautiful night, and 8 authors were there from North Star Press. I got to talk to a few of the authors at length, and found myself sitting next to Karlajean Kirk Becvar, who has written about the great Hinkley fire. She has 2 printed in the 4 book series, with the third book coming out in September.
The four hours we sat there went rather fast. It was what has been coined a night for 'exposure'. In other words, I didn't sell any books, but there were plenty of people looking at the book and took my cards. There were also photographers out and about so my cover or myself might show up somewhere.
Next weekend I will head to Hutchinson for a vendor show at the mall. I'm excited to go to Hutch since that is where the story takes place. I might also get to see people I used to work with, and that would also be nice.
I've been trying to do a little more writing again. I've decided to let the third book to this first series sit for a while and start a whole new book. The next characters are Molly and Drew. I haven't quite decided what town to center around, but have the general story sorted out in my head.
Happy early father's day to all the dads.
The four hours we sat there went rather fast. It was what has been coined a night for 'exposure'. In other words, I didn't sell any books, but there were plenty of people looking at the book and took my cards. There were also photographers out and about so my cover or myself might show up somewhere.
Next weekend I will head to Hutchinson for a vendor show at the mall. I'm excited to go to Hutch since that is where the story takes place. I might also get to see people I used to work with, and that would also be nice.
I've been trying to do a little more writing again. I've decided to let the third book to this first series sit for a while and start a whole new book. The next characters are Molly and Drew. I haven't quite decided what town to center around, but have the general story sorted out in my head.
Happy early father's day to all the dads.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Art Crawl
Tomorrow night is my second event. St. Cloud is having an art crawl, and North Star was able to invite some of their authors to Books Revisited. Last I checked, there are about 8 authors who will be at the store to sign their books. I can't wait to meet some of the others. I've heard about their books for so long, I'd love to see what they have written.
I bought a book today, intending on it being a Father's day gift for one of three people, but it sounds good enough that I might read it too. It's called The Last Ferryman by Gregory Randle. He had books at In Hot Water Coffee shop in Annanadale.
I've still been selling books almost every day to people who couldn't make my launch or just heard about the book. It's really neat to have such excitement over something I did. I've never been the type who looks for attention, so it's a strange thing to adjust to.
Books are also now at the Tri-County News office in Kimball and In Hot Water in Annandale.
I bought a book today, intending on it being a Father's day gift for one of three people, but it sounds good enough that I might read it too. It's called The Last Ferryman by Gregory Randle. He had books at In Hot Water Coffee shop in Annanadale.
I've still been selling books almost every day to people who couldn't make my launch or just heard about the book. It's really neat to have such excitement over something I did. I've never been the type who looks for attention, so it's a strange thing to adjust to.
Books are also now at the Tri-County News office in Kimball and In Hot Water in Annandale.
Friday, June 6, 2014
Wow!
Tonight was my first event, and it was great to see so many people come out to support me. A year ago when I first started writing this book, I had no real idea or plan for what I wanted to see happen. Sure, I thought I might get it printed at some point, but I was not expecting to have a book contract and a full summer of events planned.
It's funny how I'd never paid attention to where a book gets signed. The very first page or the second page with the author name and publisher. After checking a few of the signed books I own, I settled for the latter option.
I sign my name all the time at work. I sign checks, paperwork for my boys at school. But signing a book I wrote is a strange new feeling.I guess I will just have to get used to it :)
I said it on my Facebook page, but I am truly thankful for all the people who have helped me along the way, and continue to support me by coming to events and purchasing the book. I would love to see where all the book travels, so if you have one and take it on vacation, snap a picture and send it my way. I might have to put together a new page for this site highlighting the places it goes.
Again, THANK YOU!
It's funny how I'd never paid attention to where a book gets signed. The very first page or the second page with the author name and publisher. After checking a few of the signed books I own, I settled for the latter option.
I sign my name all the time at work. I sign checks, paperwork for my boys at school. But signing a book I wrote is a strange new feeling.I guess I will just have to get used to it :)
I said it on my Facebook page, but I am truly thankful for all the people who have helped me along the way, and continue to support me by coming to events and purchasing the book. I would love to see where all the book travels, so if you have one and take it on vacation, snap a picture and send it my way. I might have to put together a new page for this site highlighting the places it goes.
Again, THANK YOU!
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
The Waiting Game
My first event is this Friday night, and I'm getting excited and nervous for it. The books have not come in to the publisher yet, so that adds to my nerves. I know they will get to me in time, all the same, I want to check them out well before anyone else does.
Aside from that, I think I have everything else I need lined up. I have an acid-free, no bleed Sharpie for signing. I have bookmarks and business cards. I have something to display a book and a banner for the table.
And I have people who want to purchase the book. That's also important. It will be fun to get out and talk with folks about the book and later hear what they think of it. I just hope I can handle any criticism well. This book is not quite a third child in the sense it is something I made. There are bound to be errors or minor imperfections, but I'm still going to love it. Hopefully I'm not the only one :)
Aside from that, I think I have everything else I need lined up. I have an acid-free, no bleed Sharpie for signing. I have bookmarks and business cards. I have something to display a book and a banner for the table.
And I have people who want to purchase the book. That's also important. It will be fun to get out and talk with folks about the book and later hear what they think of it. I just hope I can handle any criticism well. This book is not quite a third child in the sense it is something I made. There are bound to be errors or minor imperfections, but I'm still going to love it. Hopefully I'm not the only one :)
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
27 Bananas
I took the boys for a little shopping trip on Sunday to get some flowers for my garden and groceries. At the grocery store, I found a deal I couldn't pass up. Bundled up in produce bags were bananas that were starting to turn brown. Most just had spots, but they still looked good. They were marked down to 99 cents a bag, and there were two bags. Jackpot! I took both, dreaming of making smoothies and banana bread.
At home, Brian was also happy with my purchase. He likes them ripe, not green. I took them out of the bag and counted them out. 27 total. My counter is pretty full yet. I haven't taken the time to mash and freeze them or make bread, but we have had a few smoothies and eaten some. I just laugh at myself when I think about all those bananas.
In about a week, I will be having my first book event! I swear it feels like it was just September when I found out North Star wanted to publish my book. I have also added to my calendar yet again. I will be at the St. Cloud Art Crawl on June 13th at Books Revisited downtown. I also have a lead on an event in Hutchison, and really hope it pans out.
There is so much little stuff I need to think about and get ready for my launch. I've had to think about what to sign- more than just a signature. Something cute or catchy. I ordered a banner and a matching phone case. I got a canopy for outdoor events. Then there is deciding what to bring with me. So much to think about.
One think I keep thinking about: I can't wait until I get my books and get to hold my book for the first time. I might just tuck one under my pillow for a while :)
At home, Brian was also happy with my purchase. He likes them ripe, not green. I took them out of the bag and counted them out. 27 total. My counter is pretty full yet. I haven't taken the time to mash and freeze them or make bread, but we have had a few smoothies and eaten some. I just laugh at myself when I think about all those bananas.
In about a week, I will be having my first book event! I swear it feels like it was just September when I found out North Star wanted to publish my book. I have also added to my calendar yet again. I will be at the St. Cloud Art Crawl on June 13th at Books Revisited downtown. I also have a lead on an event in Hutchison, and really hope it pans out.
There is so much little stuff I need to think about and get ready for my launch. I've had to think about what to sign- more than just a signature. Something cute or catchy. I ordered a banner and a matching phone case. I got a canopy for outdoor events. Then there is deciding what to bring with me. So much to think about.
One think I keep thinking about: I can't wait until I get my books and get to hold my book for the first time. I might just tuck one under my pillow for a while :)
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Off on a Tangent~ Working Outside
The weather has finally changed gears and it feels like spring should. After such a long, cold winter, I can't help but spend as much time outside as possible. And there is no shortage of work to be done.
We purchased a foreclosed home this past fall. Brian did a complete over hall on most the house, and I painted and packed. We knew there was going to be a lot of work needed outside, but had to wait until this spring to tackle it.
The area formally know as the flowerbed is so overgrown with weeds and trees. I was digging out some of the flowers I knew I would want to keep and found the edging stones we didn't know were there. I have dug 4 brown bags of iris, 7 bags of peonies, 2 bags and 2 buckets of some kind of lily, 2 bags and a bucket of sedum, and two buckets of hostas. Brian has been asking when I will get them all out of the garden shed, and I'm really hoping by the end the weekend I will have my garden all done.
The mess of weeds in the flowerbed was not the only eyesore we wanted to work on. I dug out what I wanted in front of the house, and another goal is to do new landscaping around the whole house. I pulled out the blocks around the front too. I think there are over 30 blocks from the flowerbed and another 50 some retaining blocks and 8 cinder blocks that I removed last weekend.
Then there is the tree line where brush was piled for who knows how long. Brian has been trimming some of the trees and we have hauled out over a dozen truck and trailer loads of brush to our land where we can burn it. There is still more, but we have to return the trailer my dad was nice enough to let us borrow. I can't wait to light up the pile.
We had someone come in and cut down some trees, and now there are stumps to grind. And a vegetable garden to build and plant...I can't wait for the long weekend to start!
We purchased a foreclosed home this past fall. Brian did a complete over hall on most the house, and I painted and packed. We knew there was going to be a lot of work needed outside, but had to wait until this spring to tackle it.
The area formally know as the flowerbed is so overgrown with weeds and trees. I was digging out some of the flowers I knew I would want to keep and found the edging stones we didn't know were there. I have dug 4 brown bags of iris, 7 bags of peonies, 2 bags and 2 buckets of some kind of lily, 2 bags and a bucket of sedum, and two buckets of hostas. Brian has been asking when I will get them all out of the garden shed, and I'm really hoping by the end the weekend I will have my garden all done.
The mess of weeds in the flowerbed was not the only eyesore we wanted to work on. I dug out what I wanted in front of the house, and another goal is to do new landscaping around the whole house. I pulled out the blocks around the front too. I think there are over 30 blocks from the flowerbed and another 50 some retaining blocks and 8 cinder blocks that I removed last weekend.
Then there is the tree line where brush was piled for who knows how long. Brian has been trimming some of the trees and we have hauled out over a dozen truck and trailer loads of brush to our land where we can burn it. There is still more, but we have to return the trailer my dad was nice enough to let us borrow. I can't wait to light up the pile.
We had someone come in and cut down some trees, and now there are stumps to grind. And a vegetable garden to build and plant...I can't wait for the long weekend to start!
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Old Love
It's the eve of my 7th wedding anniversary, and as I did some yard work today, I thought about relationships. Brian and I dated a little over 3 years before we got married. It was a nice wedding, I remember the church being hot and not air conditioned. The details I had worked hard on, forgotten that day as I celebrated with everyone and my new hubby.
There is one moment of the day that I still often think of. My cousin had taken me to get my hair done, and on the way to the church for pictures, she told me a story my grandpa had told her. Grandpa died in 1997, ten years prior to my getting married. On the day of my wedding, the sky was a bright blue, with the big puffy white clouds. She told me Grandpa used to say 'I love days like this. They look just like the day I got married.' And in that one sentence, I felt I had him there with me.
My family is in no way touchy-feely or very vocal on feelings. That being said, they have still been a source of the way love and a marriage should be. My parents have been married just shy of 35 years, my grandparents almost 62 years, and if Grandpa was still alive, my other set of grandparents would have them beat. They didn't fight much in front of us kids, but worked out their problems.
There are many things I love about Brian. He's got a sense of humor similar to my own, he knows how to work, and can still have a good time. He takes time to do things with our boys, and as they grow up, I know there is more he wants to do with them.
We are both very stubborn people. Ask anyone who knows us. One good thing about that: we have both agreed to never give up on what we have with each other. We often tease each other, 'you said yes' or 'you're stuck with me now'.
In the seven years we're been married, we have had 2 boys, changed jobs, bought land, home renovations, bought a different house, and he joined the fire department. I'm not sure what in that list has had the largest impact. As I think about all we have done, and what we talk about doing, I look forward to seeing where we are in the next 7 years.
There is one moment of the day that I still often think of. My cousin had taken me to get my hair done, and on the way to the church for pictures, she told me a story my grandpa had told her. Grandpa died in 1997, ten years prior to my getting married. On the day of my wedding, the sky was a bright blue, with the big puffy white clouds. She told me Grandpa used to say 'I love days like this. They look just like the day I got married.' And in that one sentence, I felt I had him there with me.
My family is in no way touchy-feely or very vocal on feelings. That being said, they have still been a source of the way love and a marriage should be. My parents have been married just shy of 35 years, my grandparents almost 62 years, and if Grandpa was still alive, my other set of grandparents would have them beat. They didn't fight much in front of us kids, but worked out their problems.
There are many things I love about Brian. He's got a sense of humor similar to my own, he knows how to work, and can still have a good time. He takes time to do things with our boys, and as they grow up, I know there is more he wants to do with them.
We are both very stubborn people. Ask anyone who knows us. One good thing about that: we have both agreed to never give up on what we have with each other. We often tease each other, 'you said yes' or 'you're stuck with me now'.
In the seven years we're been married, we have had 2 boys, changed jobs, bought land, home renovations, bought a different house, and he joined the fire department. I'm not sure what in that list has had the largest impact. As I think about all we have done, and what we talk about doing, I look forward to seeing where we are in the next 7 years.
Friday, May 16, 2014
Birds of a Feather Stick Together
The whole experience of becoming a published author is still amazing to me. I was talking to a co-worker the other day and she was excited that she knew an author now. Heck, I'm excited and a little surprised that I know an author too!
In the last few months, I have been putting time and effort into getting events lined up to get myself out there and sell my book. Some of the events I was able to find on my own or just by luck of asking to do an event. But there are also a few events on my calendar that were brought to my attention by fellow North Star Press authors. The publisher has done a great job of creating a network for the authors to bounce ideas off of each other and offer to share a booth at different venues. It's a great support system to have in place. I've seen some of the reviews on other books, and it makes me want to read them too. One author has also sent me information about being a guest blogger for another nationally know author. That could be huge publicity for me, and I am thankful she thought to offer me the information.
Of course, I wrote my book, so I'm bias, but I am going to have a successful book.I've got my mind set on making it a success. And with the help and support of the publisher, other authors and my readers, I know it is possible.
In the last few months, I have been putting time and effort into getting events lined up to get myself out there and sell my book. Some of the events I was able to find on my own or just by luck of asking to do an event. But there are also a few events on my calendar that were brought to my attention by fellow North Star Press authors. The publisher has done a great job of creating a network for the authors to bounce ideas off of each other and offer to share a booth at different venues. It's a great support system to have in place. I've seen some of the reviews on other books, and it makes me want to read them too. One author has also sent me information about being a guest blogger for another nationally know author. That could be huge publicity for me, and I am thankful she thought to offer me the information.
Of course, I wrote my book, so I'm bias, but I am going to have a successful book.I've got my mind set on making it a success. And with the help and support of the publisher, other authors and my readers, I know it is possible.
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Approaching the Finish Line
In about 20 days, I will have my books! It's amazing how long the process felt at first, and yet how quickly it has gone. I added another June event to my calendar last week.
Also added to the blog are a few things on the side. You can now get emails when I add a post and you can also share posts on Facebook and Twitter.
I've had a few more questions about what made me want to write the book. It all started after I got my Kindle as a birthday present. I was reading more books, and gravitated towards the romance books. Wanting to related to the female characters in the story, I looked for books featuring a fireman. I am married to one, why wouldn't I want to read about some stud of a fireman?
I tossed around the idea of a story for a while, and once I had enough of a storyline in my head, I sat down and began writing. It only took me the summer, and as luck would have it, North Star Press was looking for submissions at the time I was done. They liked it, and here we are.
Also added to the blog are a few things on the side. You can now get emails when I add a post and you can also share posts on Facebook and Twitter.
I've had a few more questions about what made me want to write the book. It all started after I got my Kindle as a birthday present. I was reading more books, and gravitated towards the romance books. Wanting to related to the female characters in the story, I looked for books featuring a fireman. I am married to one, why wouldn't I want to read about some stud of a fireman?
I tossed around the idea of a story for a while, and once I had enough of a storyline in my head, I sat down and began writing. It only took me the summer, and as luck would have it, North Star Press was looking for submissions at the time I was done. They liked it, and here we are.
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Measure Twice, Cut Once
As I sit in the recliner at the end of the day, listening to the rain beating on our metal roof, I'm faced with a problem no writer wants to face. I have a typo on one of my marketing tools that I proofread. Or I thought I did when I submitted the order at 1 am last weekend. It could be a learning mistake, something I just have to accept and order new cards, or I could get more creative yet again, and try to fix it. It is a hard choice to make.
I stopped by the publisher today to pay for my books, sending things in motion to be ready to go to press. That is basically just my final go-ahead that I approve what they have shown me and the book is how I want it. In less than a month, I will have my first event, and copies of my book. It felt like such a long process when I got started, but it has gone by very fast. This summer will also fly by as I go to different events promoting my book.
The rain is still pounding away, and I'm debating getting some white out and a pen to correct my error. Would people really notice a missing letter?
I stopped by the publisher today to pay for my books, sending things in motion to be ready to go to press. That is basically just my final go-ahead that I approve what they have shown me and the book is how I want it. In less than a month, I will have my first event, and copies of my book. It felt like such a long process when I got started, but it has gone by very fast. This summer will also fly by as I go to different events promoting my book.
The rain is still pounding away, and I'm debating getting some white out and a pen to correct my error. Would people really notice a missing letter?
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| Get you book? |
Saturday, May 3, 2014
I have a book cover!
Yesterday I was able to get a preview of my book cover from the publisher. We still have to get the back finished up, but this is what you can expect to see when you get your copy:
I like that it is timeless, and doesn't give away the story. I have a hard time reading a book and trying to picture the characters if there are pictures of the people on the cover. When I'm reading a story, I picture certain things, and it doesn't always match what the book shows. I guess it's just one of my personal preferences.
Next step: My picture of me for the back cover.
Next step: My picture of me for the back cover.
Thursday, April 24, 2014
A few Pictures
There have been some things I have talked about on here that I thought people might like to see pictures that go with the stories/events.
Probably the biggest photo of interest- the snake. I understand it's not very big, but the fact that this pest was in my house makes it kind of a big deal. The bucket is still covering the floor drain to this date.
This was at the training I got to be a part of. My boys and I were in the car with one of the soon to be retired firemen.
His wife is the one holding his neck.
A closer photo of the van getting cut apart. The person posing as the driver was still inside at this time.
Saturday, April 19, 2014
#9 and a little Reflection
I took advantage of the warmer temperature again today and went for a bike ride before supper. Of course, if it wasn't for getting close to a foot of snow this week, we probably also wouldn't have had another mouse in the basement, making me paranoid to just ride the exercise bike. But I digress.
I got to thinking on my ride about cycles. There are things I did when I was younger, that I tried to get away from, and now the same things are coming back around to me. I hunted when I was younger, but as I got older, I stopped. It wasn't the 'in' thing to do, my interests changed, and I pushed that part of me down. Fast forward through the rest of high school, college, and two boys later, this last fall I went deer hunting for the first time in nearly 10 years. I didn't get to shoot, but the excitement of being in the stand on edge all day, waiting to see one come through that I could get a shot at was enough to make me want to go again next year.
Writing is another one of those things that I pushed away for far too long. I wrote a lot through high school, even starting to write my first novel at that time. I hope to some day go back to that first book and finish it. It's so easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day and not take time to do the things we enjoy and are meant to do.
Last year, began thinking about a story. The more I thought about it, the more I needed to get it out. I sat down on June 4th, and started writing Moving On. I got back into reading the fall prior after receiving a Kindle for my birthday. I tend to read romance books, and considering who I'm married to, it only made sense to look for novels about firemen. Who doesn't want to imagine themselves as the person in the story? It was hard to find a good story with a fireman, so I thought, I can do this. I made a list of some of the characters I wanted to use, and hit the ground running. In just over a month, anyone will be able to read the story I came up with, and that is something very amazing to me.
I got to thinking on my ride about cycles. There are things I did when I was younger, that I tried to get away from, and now the same things are coming back around to me. I hunted when I was younger, but as I got older, I stopped. It wasn't the 'in' thing to do, my interests changed, and I pushed that part of me down. Fast forward through the rest of high school, college, and two boys later, this last fall I went deer hunting for the first time in nearly 10 years. I didn't get to shoot, but the excitement of being in the stand on edge all day, waiting to see one come through that I could get a shot at was enough to make me want to go again next year.
Writing is another one of those things that I pushed away for far too long. I wrote a lot through high school, even starting to write my first novel at that time. I hope to some day go back to that first book and finish it. It's so easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day and not take time to do the things we enjoy and are meant to do.
Last year, began thinking about a story. The more I thought about it, the more I needed to get it out. I sat down on June 4th, and started writing Moving On. I got back into reading the fall prior after receiving a Kindle for my birthday. I tend to read romance books, and considering who I'm married to, it only made sense to look for novels about firemen. Who doesn't want to imagine themselves as the person in the story? It was hard to find a good story with a fireman, so I thought, I can do this. I made a list of some of the characters I wanted to use, and hit the ground running. In just over a month, anyone will be able to read the story I came up with, and that is something very amazing to me.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Can you judge a book by it's cover?
I sent back my second proof for additional edits this week. There hasn't been much that I have needed to fix, which is nice. I couldn't tell if there were things that the publisher changed from how I originally had it, so whatever they did change, it works.
After a few hours on Pintrest, I had a few ideas for my cover. The problem was taking a few pictures. I was able to convince the hubby to pose as my guy, but told him he had to be in full gear, since he really doesn't look like the male character. One of the wives from the fire department agreed to be the photographer, and we were all set.
Sunday was a big fundraiser for the department, and late in the afternoon, there were just a few people left at the hall, so we took some pictures. I wrapped my legs around Brian and took a few shots against a truck. It was going okay until one of the guys had to come investigate and mock us. In the end, he was caught posing with a purse, so I think we are even.
I did a little editing to a few of the pictures and sent them to the publisher to see if they thought any of them would work for my cover. They were shot down, being too suggestive for what they would like to see on the cover, and the other one I liked could have revealed part of the plot.
So now I'm back to searching for the perfect cover photo. Should it be a couple walking in the woods, a hunky fireman at a call, or something else all together?
After a few hours on Pintrest, I had a few ideas for my cover. The problem was taking a few pictures. I was able to convince the hubby to pose as my guy, but told him he had to be in full gear, since he really doesn't look like the male character. One of the wives from the fire department agreed to be the photographer, and we were all set.
Sunday was a big fundraiser for the department, and late in the afternoon, there were just a few people left at the hall, so we took some pictures. I wrapped my legs around Brian and took a few shots against a truck. It was going okay until one of the guys had to come investigate and mock us. In the end, he was caught posing with a purse, so I think we are even.
So now I'm back to searching for the perfect cover photo. Should it be a couple walking in the woods, a hunky fireman at a call, or something else all together?
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Crash Victim 101
Last night, Brian came home and asked if the boys and I had plans for tonight. I let him know we just had hair cuts scheduled. I was not expecting the next question.
"So do you want to be victims for car extrication training?"
Of course! The boys were a little nervous, but when I explained that they wouldn't be cutting apart my car, it was better.
We met at the fire hall and rode to the training center with the other 'victims'. Our fire department has an area with some of those big metal containers you see on trains and semis that they use for burn trainings. They also use that area for other trainings.
An area junk yard brought in two vehicles, an old Ford Tempo and a Windstar mini van. We were given our list of injuries. My boys were put in the back seat of the car. The older one was to be alert, responsive, and complaining of neck injuries. The younger one was shaken, and kept saying he spilled something and he was wet. My passenger was not responsive and had a weak pulse. I was also unresponsive. The lady in the minivan was belligerent but responsive.
That was our set-up. The fire fighters were in their turn-out gear and began pulling out their tools to take car of getting us out. The first thing they needed to do was stabilize the vehicles- blocking the tires so they wouldn't move, disconnecting the battery, etc. Then it was time to check on the people inside the vehicles. The boys had the lead amount of injuries, and were taken out right away. I had to be taken out to get to the passenger, who was worse off than me.
It was interesting to watch the rest of the training unfold. They had to pop open the door on the minivan and remove the windshield. A blanket was put over the driver to keep from getting anything on her. A neck collar was put on, and they had to cut apart the dash and roof to get her out. She was put on a backboard and taken out of there.
The passenger also had to be cut out. The roof was pulled back, it really looked like the old sardine cans that rolled back when you opened them. They secured it back with some straps. The doors and the same safety measures for him were taken.
When it was all done, the fire department got to play with their tools. Windows were removed, the remaining doors, trunk, hood- everything was detached by some saw, spreader or other weapon of destruction.
Overall, it was an interesting training to be part of. I have never been involved or at an accident where they had to remove anyone, and in this situation, I knew there were no actual lives in danger. I am glad I was given the opportunity and saw first hand the teamwork and coordination needed at an accident scene. I give these people a lot of credit. It certainly isn't something for everyone, but the work of a fire fighter speaks to the right people.
"So do you want to be victims for car extrication training?"
Of course! The boys were a little nervous, but when I explained that they wouldn't be cutting apart my car, it was better.
We met at the fire hall and rode to the training center with the other 'victims'. Our fire department has an area with some of those big metal containers you see on trains and semis that they use for burn trainings. They also use that area for other trainings.
An area junk yard brought in two vehicles, an old Ford Tempo and a Windstar mini van. We were given our list of injuries. My boys were put in the back seat of the car. The older one was to be alert, responsive, and complaining of neck injuries. The younger one was shaken, and kept saying he spilled something and he was wet. My passenger was not responsive and had a weak pulse. I was also unresponsive. The lady in the minivan was belligerent but responsive.
That was our set-up. The fire fighters were in their turn-out gear and began pulling out their tools to take car of getting us out. The first thing they needed to do was stabilize the vehicles- blocking the tires so they wouldn't move, disconnecting the battery, etc. Then it was time to check on the people inside the vehicles. The boys had the lead amount of injuries, and were taken out right away. I had to be taken out to get to the passenger, who was worse off than me.
It was interesting to watch the rest of the training unfold. They had to pop open the door on the minivan and remove the windshield. A blanket was put over the driver to keep from getting anything on her. A neck collar was put on, and they had to cut apart the dash and roof to get her out. She was put on a backboard and taken out of there.
The passenger also had to be cut out. The roof was pulled back, it really looked like the old sardine cans that rolled back when you opened them. They secured it back with some straps. The doors and the same safety measures for him were taken.
When it was all done, the fire department got to play with their tools. Windows were removed, the remaining doors, trunk, hood- everything was detached by some saw, spreader or other weapon of destruction.
Overall, it was an interesting training to be part of. I have never been involved or at an accident where they had to remove anyone, and in this situation, I knew there were no actual lives in danger. I am glad I was given the opportunity and saw first hand the teamwork and coordination needed at an accident scene. I give these people a lot of credit. It certainly isn't something for everyone, but the work of a fire fighter speaks to the right people.
Friday, April 4, 2014
Scavenger Hunt
Last weekend, the hubby and I stopped by two book stores in St. Cloud. First was Barnes and Noble when we went out for a date night. I wandered around for a while, before catching myself searching for a certain logo.
This is the logo for North Star Press, and I will have at least one of these on my book. It's like a scavenger hunt, and I get excited when I see it on other books. I challenge others to start looking for this on the spine of books at your house, the stores, library, where ever you find your books. It's rewarding to know that the books with this logo are published by a local company, with local authors. There are many books coming out this summer and fall by this publisher that I will be searching for. I will add my recommendations as I get my hands on my own copies.
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Proofreading Process
I got the first edited version of my book this week. It feels mildly dorky of me, but as I am reading it, I can't help but enjoy it all over again. I suppose I should since I wrote it.
My current task is to read the book and mark what I think needs to be changed, then give it back to the editor for her to make changes, then give it back to me to see if there are any addition corrections to make. This will be repeated until we are both comfortable with the finished product.
Somewhere in the mix, we are also going to be settling on the cover design. I am still working on adding more events to my calendar as well. I have a few shops and libraries that I want to get lined up. Now that I also have a better idea on the release date, I would like to find something in Hutchinson during their water carnival week in June. It only makes sense since the book is based in Hutchinson.
I am excited that it feels like things are finally picking up speed and moving along again. I should have my finished product in only 2 months!
My current task is to read the book and mark what I think needs to be changed, then give it back to the editor for her to make changes, then give it back to me to see if there are any addition corrections to make. This will be repeated until we are both comfortable with the finished product.
Somewhere in the mix, we are also going to be settling on the cover design. I am still working on adding more events to my calendar as well. I have a few shops and libraries that I want to get lined up. Now that I also have a better idea on the release date, I would like to find something in Hutchinson during their water carnival week in June. It only makes sense since the book is based in Hutchinson.
I am excited that it feels like things are finally picking up speed and moving along again. I should have my finished product in only 2 months!
Monday, March 31, 2014
A Meeting with my Publisher
I asked to meet with my publisher today to go over a few things I had questions on. I did find out three things I was not expecting to hear.
1. The first edit by the editor has been done, and is ready for me to look it over.
2. It made her cry a few times.
3. She was happy I didn't use the words 'manhood' or 'member'.
It's looking like things are on track for me to still get my book on time for my original June release. We are going to start getting the cover design done, and proofreading. It still seems unreal that I'm getting my first book published, but it's also an amazing feeling.
1. The first edit by the editor has been done, and is ready for me to look it over.
2. It made her cry a few times.
3. She was happy I didn't use the words 'manhood' or 'member'.
It's looking like things are on track for me to still get my book on time for my original June release. We are going to start getting the cover design done, and proofreading. It still seems unreal that I'm getting my first book published, but it's also an amazing feeling.
Friday, March 28, 2014
Ready for the Weekend
I am very excited to have added another library event to my calendar this week. It's even more exciting that the Waite Park library is allowing me to meet with their writer's group. I can't wait to pick their brains and see what other writers do. That being added, I for sure have the 10 events I wanted by April 1st.
We've had two birthdays this week at our house, and with all the parties going on here, the weekend is a very welcome thing for me. I want to carve out some time this weekend to work on book #3 more too. I haven't decided yet what to name it. Once I get a better feel for the storyline, I'm sure it will come to me.
We've had two birthdays this week at our house, and with all the parties going on here, the weekend is a very welcome thing for me. I want to carve out some time this weekend to work on book #3 more too. I haven't decided yet what to name it. Once I get a better feel for the storyline, I'm sure it will come to me.
Friday, March 21, 2014
Filling up the Calendar
I don't know if I can officially say I have 10 events or not. I have a weekend booked with Millner Winery in Kimball, and if I count it as 2 separate events, I would have the ten I wanted by April 1st. I planned on posting a preview of the book once I hit 10, and I'd say close enough. We haven't started the editing yet, so it might be a little different when the book comes out. Here goes nothing:
Chapter 1
Chapter 1
Just keep pushing.
Only a little further. Beth watched the numbers on the treadmill approach
the end of her workout. She hadn’t always been faithful to her gym membership
but that had all changed nearly two years ago. Of course, she didn’t start
getting the nightmares until then either. Nothing seemed to help break the funk
she was in like a getting sweaty running.
The nightmares weren’t always the same, and had gotten to be
less frequent. The one last night was the first in over a month. She closed her
eyes as it came back to her. A red car pulling up in front of her house.
Captain Sam Peterson, or Petey as everyone called him, stepping out. The first
knock on her front door, and the fear of why he was at her house. It could only
mean one thing. Her biggest fear had come true.
********************************************************************************
Beth had known Josh since the first year of college. He was
from Hutchinson, the town they later called home. She grew up in the cities,
and wanted to get out of the busy, urbanized area. Beth had always felt trapped
by the tall buildings and fast paced way of life. Both had attended many of the
same general education classes, and the friendship grew into love. He proposed
the week after graduation, and they got married the following April. Even at
23, she knew with him was where she was meant to be.
One thing that drew Beth to Josh was his willingness to
help. It was no surprise to her that he desired to follow his dad’s footsteps
and become a member of the Hutchinson Volunteer Fire Department. He joined the spring before school was out,
and commuted from Hutch to school every day. He didn’t want to miss any called
and let his numbers slip. The fire department was a second family to him. His best friend Petey, the brother he never
had Josh always said, was the best man at their wedding. It was a great source of friendship for both
Josh and Beth.
They had been married 3 years when they started talking
about having a baby. They were lying in bed tossing around ideas of what to
name the future little one when Josh’s pager went off. He kissed her good-bye,
and told Beth he loved her before grabbing his socks and getting his jeans on
as he ran out the door. Beth caught part of the end of the page, hearing it was
a car wreck on the main highway. Please
keep the guys safe and get the people the help they need, she said in a
quick little prayer. It became habit when she knew he was on a call.
A few minutes later, Beth heard the sirens. Their house was
less than a mile from the fire hall, which usually resulted in Josh getting on
the first rig to leave. About ten minutes later, there were more sirens. Car
accidents meant at least one fire truck, the rescue rig, and an ambulance. She
waited to hear the third set of sirens, and then got out of bed to get some
things done. Josh wouldn’t be back for a while, longer if it was a really bad
accident.
Beth worked on getting laundry done, cleaning the living
room, and headed to their office in the half story of the house. The office was
on the main level, and their room and a third room that was mainly used for
storage in the top level. Beth went upstairs and stood at the doorway of the
storage room, trying to picture what it would look like with a crib. They were
ready to be parents. Josh would be a great father.
As the afternoon went on, Beth found herself cleaning the
spare room. There were a lot of things kept in the room that could be moved to
the basement already. She took a trip down memory lane as she flipped through
photo albums of their wedding and honeymoon. Beth found a box in the garage and
labeled it “Photos” before adding the albums and other pictures to it. She
brought the box to the basement, along with a few other boxes.
As she came up the steps the last time, she took a look at
the clock and decided to start making supper. Beth was filling a pot of water
when she looked out the kitchen window and froze. The Hutchinson Fire
Department car had just rolled up to the curb in front of their house. Petey
got out, wearing a tired look. This couldn’t be good, Beth thought. He rubbed his face for a second, and then
crossed the street and walked up to the door. The first knock on the door
jarred Beth back to the present, and she turned off the water. Walking to the
door, she knew Petey wouldn’t have shown up unless something had happened to
Josh. She opened the door, and saw it was grim by the look in Petey’s eyes.
“Can I come in?” he asked her, leaning on the doorway.
“Sure.”
They walked into the living room, and Petey sat on the
couch. Beth stood with her arms crossed.
“I think you should sit down, Beth.”
Beth let out the breath she hadn’t realized she was holding,
and sat on the couch with Petey.
“What happened?” she asked, fearing the reason he was there.
“Do you know what the call was for?” Beth nodded yes, and
Petey continued. “ We were out on 7 for a roll-over. The car was smashed so
bad, but being the first crew on the scene, we were doing as much as we could
to assess the victims’ conditions. Josh was on the driver’s side when a truck
came barreling through our scene. The driver didn’t see Josh.” He put his head
down in his hands. “He hit Josh.”
Beth didn’t notice the tears falling until they started
hitting her arm. “Where’s Josh? I need to go see him.”
Petey looked up, his eyes also wet.
“He’s gone.”
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
My Mother Might be Reading this
There have been some people whose first reaction to me telling them I wrote a romance novel is "Is it like 50 Shades of Kimball?" No, it's not.
Sorry to disappoint anyone who loves the 50 Shades books. I've read them, and there is a great love story buried under a lot of sex. Kudos to E L James for being able to write like that. My first book, Moving On, does have a little sex, but the whole time I was writing the book, I kept thinking What if my mom reads this?
I hope that the sex scenes in my first book are tasteful enough that it won't shame my mom. All good romance books need some spice to show the build of the relationship. There have been a few books I've read that the sexual tension is so thick, I keep turning the page to see if anything will actually happen. That's a good read because it keeps the reader engaged.
On a more PG note, I got another event booked today- my first on on the calendar with a library.
Sorry to disappoint anyone who loves the 50 Shades books. I've read them, and there is a great love story buried under a lot of sex. Kudos to E L James for being able to write like that. My first book, Moving On, does have a little sex, but the whole time I was writing the book, I kept thinking What if my mom reads this?
I hope that the sex scenes in my first book are tasteful enough that it won't shame my mom. All good romance books need some spice to show the build of the relationship. There have been a few books I've read that the sexual tension is so thick, I keep turning the page to see if anything will actually happen. That's a good read because it keeps the reader engaged.
On a more PG note, I got another event booked today- my first on on the calendar with a library.
Sunday, March 16, 2014
Getting closer to my goal
I had set a goal for myself of having 10 events lined up by April 1st. The publisher had said before the book can go to press, they need 10 events scheduled. I have 7 or 8 if you count one two day event in July on my calendar now. Check out the events page to see where all I am going to be.
I sent a few requests out Friday night so hopefully that also turns something up. It's been about 2 weeks now that I sent letters to 15 libraries, and haven't heard anything from them. I can be such a chicken about calling people, but I might have to push myself to call the libraries to follow-up. I also had talked with a few businesses who said they would work with me, but we haven't set dates on an event.
Maybe I will reach my goal by the end of the week and celebrate with a sneak-peek of the book.
I sent a few requests out Friday night so hopefully that also turns something up. It's been about 2 weeks now that I sent letters to 15 libraries, and haven't heard anything from them. I can be such a chicken about calling people, but I might have to push myself to call the libraries to follow-up. I also had talked with a few businesses who said they would work with me, but we haven't set dates on an event.
Maybe I will reach my goal by the end of the week and celebrate with a sneak-peek of the book.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
I nearly crapped my pants
There are only a handful of things that truly terrify me. I'm not talking about things that make me jump or scare me for a moment, then leave my mind. Spiders can surprise me, but then I realize I can smash them and end the problem. My boys being reckless can scare me, and then they escape without a scratch.
Some people are afraid of heights, or swimming, or flying. My top two are mice and snakes.
I had thought mice scared me more than snakes. Let me give you a little background. When I was in college, still living at home, I had two years in a row, a mouse or two in my bedroom that woke me up in the middle of the night. In the roughly 7 years of being married, we had 1 mouse in the house about a year and a half ago. Even months later, I was still watching for turds and other signs of more critters.
Then we had to decide to go and buy a different house this last fall. Out of town, a foreclosure that sat empty for close to a year. Great idea, right? Overall, yes. But the over grown yard and grain bins across the road should have prepared me for uninvited house guests.
Before we moved, I had put out some glue traps, just in case. Moving day came, and we tried to get settled in, despite the unfinished kitchen remodel. Our first morning, I went downstairs to see what Brian and the boys were doing, and noticed one of the traps was missing. Brian didn't know where it had gone, so he did a little searching. The trap had been moved a few feet away from where I had it, and the peanut butter was gone.
This was not going to be an easy battle. It was time for war.
I went the next day and got some of the old-fashion snap traps. We were sitting in the living room that night and heard the ominous sound from the basement. It was the first of six in our first two weeks.
I wasn't going to take any chances, and left a few traps out in the basement. Then one day in January, we got another one. I looked at Brian and said, "If we get any more, the cat is going to come into the house for a few days." He didn't argue. The next night, there was another one. Granted, it was the first week where the temps hit -20 degrees, but that didn't make me feel any better. The traps have been empty since then.
Fast forward to today. I have started to be more comfortable in the basement. I've even ventured down there to ride the exercise bike again without too much worry. I still check the traps as soon as I get downstairs, but it's just habit. I woke up, got my Kindle and ear buds, and went down to ride the bike for a while. After that, I set up my quilt frame and worked on tying a quilt until lunchtime, doing a few loads of laundry in between. I had taken a load out of the dryer, and was moving some clothes from the washer to the dryer when I saw it.
At first, I thought there was a string, maybe a shoe lace tangled up in the floor drain. Then I saw said string move. I couldn't get upstairs fast enough. Forget that the boys were down there watching a movie. I paced back and forth in the kitchen, vocally expressing my discomfort and disgust. Tyler came up and asked what I thought was gross. I didn't want to tell him. I sent Brian a text to find out how soon he would be home, and let him know what I saw. He asked if it was dead. I said *$%# no.
I calmed myself down enough and went back to the basement with my phone. I wanted to document that I wasn't crazy. A few minutes later, I slowly approached the drain and snapped a picture. Tyler was curious enough to look. I sent it to Brian and my cousin, who couldn't believe it. I didn't want to either.
Then I decided to call my mom. She suggested covering the drain, so I took an ice cream pail and made Tyler cover it. It made me feel a little better that at least it wouldn't be able to go anywhere.
It's funny how being scared out of my mind makes me want to clean. Before long, the kitchen was spotless, and all the clean laundry was upstairs. When Brian did get home, the snake was no longer tangled in the cover. He did pour hot water to flush it out, just in case.
I put the bucket back over to make myself feel better. I still need to finish that quilt, but I'm not sure how long it will take to heal the mental scaring from today.
Some people are afraid of heights, or swimming, or flying. My top two are mice and snakes.
I had thought mice scared me more than snakes. Let me give you a little background. When I was in college, still living at home, I had two years in a row, a mouse or two in my bedroom that woke me up in the middle of the night. In the roughly 7 years of being married, we had 1 mouse in the house about a year and a half ago. Even months later, I was still watching for turds and other signs of more critters.
Then we had to decide to go and buy a different house this last fall. Out of town, a foreclosure that sat empty for close to a year. Great idea, right? Overall, yes. But the over grown yard and grain bins across the road should have prepared me for uninvited house guests.
Before we moved, I had put out some glue traps, just in case. Moving day came, and we tried to get settled in, despite the unfinished kitchen remodel. Our first morning, I went downstairs to see what Brian and the boys were doing, and noticed one of the traps was missing. Brian didn't know where it had gone, so he did a little searching. The trap had been moved a few feet away from where I had it, and the peanut butter was gone.
This was not going to be an easy battle. It was time for war.
I went the next day and got some of the old-fashion snap traps. We were sitting in the living room that night and heard the ominous sound from the basement. It was the first of six in our first two weeks.
I wasn't going to take any chances, and left a few traps out in the basement. Then one day in January, we got another one. I looked at Brian and said, "If we get any more, the cat is going to come into the house for a few days." He didn't argue. The next night, there was another one. Granted, it was the first week where the temps hit -20 degrees, but that didn't make me feel any better. The traps have been empty since then.
Fast forward to today. I have started to be more comfortable in the basement. I've even ventured down there to ride the exercise bike again without too much worry. I still check the traps as soon as I get downstairs, but it's just habit. I woke up, got my Kindle and ear buds, and went down to ride the bike for a while. After that, I set up my quilt frame and worked on tying a quilt until lunchtime, doing a few loads of laundry in between. I had taken a load out of the dryer, and was moving some clothes from the washer to the dryer when I saw it.
At first, I thought there was a string, maybe a shoe lace tangled up in the floor drain. Then I saw said string move. I couldn't get upstairs fast enough. Forget that the boys were down there watching a movie. I paced back and forth in the kitchen, vocally expressing my discomfort and disgust. Tyler came up and asked what I thought was gross. I didn't want to tell him. I sent Brian a text to find out how soon he would be home, and let him know what I saw. He asked if it was dead. I said *$%# no.
I calmed myself down enough and went back to the basement with my phone. I wanted to document that I wasn't crazy. A few minutes later, I slowly approached the drain and snapped a picture. Tyler was curious enough to look. I sent it to Brian and my cousin, who couldn't believe it. I didn't want to either.
Then I decided to call my mom. She suggested covering the drain, so I took an ice cream pail and made Tyler cover it. It made me feel a little better that at least it wouldn't be able to go anywhere.
It's funny how being scared out of my mind makes me want to clean. Before long, the kitchen was spotless, and all the clean laundry was upstairs. When Brian did get home, the snake was no longer tangled in the cover. He did pour hot water to flush it out, just in case.
I put the bucket back over to make myself feel better. I still need to finish that quilt, but I'm not sure how long it will take to heal the mental scaring from today.
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Sunday, February 23, 2014
I've been spending a little too much time reading as of late, and not enough on getting author events lined up, so my goal for the next month is to get my scheduled event up to 10. The publisher requires at least that many before they will take the book to print anyway. Right now I have 2 on the calendar, and another 3 without dates.
March 1st I can start writing book #3, since I was allowing myself some time to relax and take care of other things before starting the last of this series. I have other ideas for more fire fighter romance books, so no doubt there will be more to come.
March 1st I can start writing book #3, since I was allowing myself some time to relax and take care of other things before starting the last of this series. I have other ideas for more fire fighter romance books, so no doubt there will be more to come.
Monday, February 17, 2014
Last week, I issued a challenge on my Facebook page for one or two sentences as a writing prompt. I'm gearing up to start writing book #3, and want to get a little practice writing done first.
Here's the prompt I got, and what I've written:
Sammy couldn't believe her best friend had just slapped her. It could only mean one of two things. Chelsea had either found out about Sammy ruining her favorite pair of $400 shoes, or she saw her with Chelsea's recent ex-boyfriend.
Sammy rubber her cheek, feeling the sting of her friend's hand. "What was that for?" she asked.
Chelsea crossed her arms over her chest. "You know damn well what that was for."
"Is it about the shoes? I swear, I'll buy you a new pair, just as soon as I get my paycheck."
Chelsea let her arms fall. "What shoes?"
Sammy's eye brow shot up. "I guess that's not what the slap was for. Nevermind."
Chelsea sat down on the couch. "I thought I knew you better than this, Sam. It's only been two weeks since I broke up with Tommy, and then today I had to hear from Patty at work that she saw the two of you at the bar last night. I don't get it."
Sammy paced in front of the coffee table. "It's not what you think."
Chelsea gave a snort. "You have no idea what I think it is." She stood up and pointed at Sammy.
"For all I know, you could have been seeing him before we broke up."
"Chelsea, I wouldn't do that to you."
"But you would go out with my ex. I can't stay here with you any more. I'm moving out."
"Chelsea, you can't. Your name is on the lease."
Chelsea walked towards her room. "Good point. But your name isn't. I want you out by the end of the day. I can't believe I call you my friend." She stepped inside her room and closed the door.
Sammy looked at the closed door, debating if she should press Chelsea more and make her understand what had happened. It wasn't like she meant to see Tommy at the bar, but things did get out of hand. If it wasn't for the whiskey sours, she wouldn't have kissed him out on the dance floor and left the bar with him. Maybe she could call him, and convince him to talk Chelsea into letting her stay.
Sammy went to her room and grabbed her purse. She was short on cash, but her credit card wasn't maxed out yet. She had a pair of shoes to buy, and hopefully convince her best friend that an old boyfriend wasn't worth ending their friendship.
Here's the prompt I got, and what I've written:
Sammy couldn't believe her best friend had just slapped her. It could only mean one of two things. Chelsea had either found out about Sammy ruining her favorite pair of $400 shoes, or she saw her with Chelsea's recent ex-boyfriend.
Sammy rubber her cheek, feeling the sting of her friend's hand. "What was that for?" she asked.
Chelsea crossed her arms over her chest. "You know damn well what that was for."
"Is it about the shoes? I swear, I'll buy you a new pair, just as soon as I get my paycheck."
Chelsea let her arms fall. "What shoes?"
Sammy's eye brow shot up. "I guess that's not what the slap was for. Nevermind."
Chelsea sat down on the couch. "I thought I knew you better than this, Sam. It's only been two weeks since I broke up with Tommy, and then today I had to hear from Patty at work that she saw the two of you at the bar last night. I don't get it."
Sammy paced in front of the coffee table. "It's not what you think."
Chelsea gave a snort. "You have no idea what I think it is." She stood up and pointed at Sammy.
"For all I know, you could have been seeing him before we broke up."
"Chelsea, I wouldn't do that to you."
"But you would go out with my ex. I can't stay here with you any more. I'm moving out."
"Chelsea, you can't. Your name is on the lease."
Chelsea walked towards her room. "Good point. But your name isn't. I want you out by the end of the day. I can't believe I call you my friend." She stepped inside her room and closed the door.
Sammy looked at the closed door, debating if she should press Chelsea more and make her understand what had happened. It wasn't like she meant to see Tommy at the bar, but things did get out of hand. If it wasn't for the whiskey sours, she wouldn't have kissed him out on the dance floor and left the bar with him. Maybe she could call him, and convince him to talk Chelsea into letting her stay.
Sammy went to her room and grabbed her purse. She was short on cash, but her credit card wasn't maxed out yet. She had a pair of shoes to buy, and hopefully convince her best friend that an old boyfriend wasn't worth ending their friendship.
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