Macy left for London today and I'm so jealous I could puke. Just kidding. I'd love to be en route to London, but I'm not feeling nauseous.
I don't know why I'm so madly in love with London. I've never been there in person. However, I've visited vicariously through books and movies, so tonight I thought I'd post a "Six" in honor of Macy's trip -- my six favorite romantic comedies set in London.
1. Love Actually
Love Actually is a charming, distinctly British, Richard Curtis film that weaves together, through vignettes, the tale of eight couples as they struggle to work out their baggage and find love in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The separate story arcs all come together and we discover connections between the characters as the timeline progresses . There's a heck of a lot of British talent in this film--Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Kiera Knightley, Liam Neeson, Alan Rickman and so on -- but Bill Nighy provides most of the film's funniest moments as aging rock star Billy Mack. I started cracking up almost the moment he appeared on screen. This is just a fun, feel good movie with a great soundtrack. Check it out if you haven't seen it already.
2. Shakespeare in Love
You remember this one, right? Set in London in the late 16th century, William Shakespeare, as a young playwright. struggles with his latest work "Romeo and Ethel the Pirate's Daughter". He meets Viola, who has always dreamt of being an actress and they, of course, fall in love and she becomes his muse. Here's a quote from the director--
"A script like this comes along once in a lifetime," says John Madden. "I never expected to find something that I would feel so strongly about. I've spent my life around Shakespeare - I've acted in it, directed it, I've studied it and I've even taught Shakespeare at university - and to find a script that actually gets behind it all and is so incredibly funny and fresh and brilliantly imagined is just wonderful. I am very proud of this film. We all are."
3. Bridget Jones' Diary
The film adaptation of Helen Fielding's bestseller chronicles the trials and tribulations of a thirty something singleton living in London. Bridget drinks too much, dresses unwisely and obsesses over finding love. She also makes foolish choices. Both the book by Helen Fielding and its film adaptation struck a chord with young, single women who identified with its "real" heroine. I loved both the book and the movie. Of course, I loved the whole chick lit phenomenon and I' m a Pride & Prejudice freak. I'm sure you've heard this before but the plot was loosely based upon the masterpiece by Jane Austen. To play that up, Colin Firth was cast as Mark “Darcy” in the film. He is the same actor who played Mr. Darcy in the much-heralded BBC/A&E version of the classic novel.
4. About a Boy
My favorite Hugh Grant movie. I just loved this film. It is an adaptation of a Nick Hornby novel. Grant is perfectly cast as Will, an unemployed, shallow, self-absorbed, trust-fund slacker who has never dated anyone for more than two months because he doesn't want to be involved or take responsibility for anyone. He tries to improve his romantic odds by preying on desperate single mothers in London. He even goes so far as to recruit the misfit son of a suicidal mother to pose as his own son in order to hang out with a particularly interesting "hot mom." Ultimately, his strategy backfires. He ends up befriending the boy and falling for the girl. Hard. A year later, he has an extended family he cares about and feels responsiblity toward. Other than that, all I can tell you is there is a very funny performance of Killing Me Softly With His Song. You have to watch it. Prepare to crack up.
5. Four Weddings and a Funeral
Just like the title says, this movie is about four weddings and a funeral. At the first wedding Charles, played by Hugh Grant, becomes smitten with an American woman named Carrie, played by Andie MacDowell. According to Amazon, this was one of the highest grossing films to come out of Great Britain.
6. My Fair Lady
This oscar winner was adapted from a stage musical based on the play, Pygmalion. I loved this movie as a kid, although I thought Henry Higgins was very mean. Now, of course, I'd say he was arrogant, but it still works for me.
If you're thinking, wow, she forgot Notting Hill, I have to say, while I loved the setting of that film, it's not one of my faves. I thought there was a distinct lack of chemistry, spark and sexual tension between the main characters. However, I did like other aspects of the movie. The flatmate, Spike? Hilarious!
Other movies set in London that I love are Elizabeth , Mary Poppins, Bend it Like Beckham and Snatch. Those are off the top of the head. I'm sure more will come to me later. For now, that should help us all get our London fix.
Have an amazing time Macy.
Cheers and happy writing,
Alyson
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Sunday, May 27, 2007
A Summer Reading Sunday Six
School is out for summer – at least here in Florida.
Summer reading lists are posted. I’m lucky. Both of my step-kids like to read. Mikaela more than Jake (the younger), but both enjoy a good book.
My “now a 6th grader” has to read 3 books this summer and write a 3 to 5 paragraph summary (synopsis) of each. One must be from a “classics” list. He chose 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea – one of my personal favorites, but a difficult book, nonetheless. He also had to pick one book from a list of pre-approved authors. He chose Lemony Snicket. The last book was completely his choice. He says he’s going to read the second Artemis Fowl book. Good choices. By the end of the summer, he’s counted that he’ll have read more than 1000 pages. (Can anyone say future accountant? He’s a numbers sort of kid.)
My “now a sophomore” (yikes) has to read 2 books. Her high school has changed how they approach summer reading. No classics in the summer. The classics will all be taught during the school year. The purpose of this year’s summer reading is to excite kids to read. Therefore, all students and teachers at her school in grades 10-12 will be reading The Hot Zone. This is one of my all-time favorite books. I’m so excited they chose it. She has already read one of Richard Preston’s other books – The Demon in the Freezer – as her non-fiction choice for English as a freshman. She loved it, so I have hope that she’ll like this one, too. The other required book is Ender’s Game. This has been a book required of sophomores at her school for awhile now. I’m not sure she’ll like it as well. It’s science fiction and she doesn’t have a science fiction mind. She’s more of a “relationship” book reader. However, I have every reason to believe that Ender’s Game will one day be considered a classic. It’s that good.
It is strongly recommended that the high school students choose one other book from the following list to read over the summer. I perused the list this morning and found a delightful selection of books – something for everyone from non-fiction to fiction to spiritual to fantasy to mystery. Some of my favorites are on there – Libba Bray, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Orson Scott Card.
Of course, there were no romances on the list. I won’t go there.
However, I decided to make my Sunday Six this Sunday a list of 6 books that I think they left off. These books should have been on the list, as well, making the list 256+ great reads instead of 250+.
Oh, yeah, here's the list and a link: Teenreads.com
#1 – I’m glad the school where my kids go selected a Richard Preston book. Neither the Hot Zone nor The Demon in the Freezer made the Teenreads.com list. They should have. He has a new book out called The Wild Trees. It’s at the top of my summer reading list. I love his books. Back to the Hot Zone. Here’s a bit about it from http://www.richardpreston.net/books/hz.html .
#3 – Let’s also add Elizabeth Gilbert’s soul-touching memoir to the list. Eat, Pray, Love may be a novel that only adult women can really “get”, but I don’t think so. I think it has something in it that can speak to everyone.
#4 – Last summer, the book on the top of my summer reading list was Elizabeth Kostova’s The Historian. I loved the book because I truly felt transported to another time and place. Salon.com sums up the book better than I could. It is about “a band of intrepid historians hunt for the real-life Dracula -- and visit plenty of far-flung European locales -- in this hypnotic multigenerational mystery.”
Here’s a bit more:
#5 ½ -- Can we all question how none of J.K. Rowling’s books made the teenreads list? Perhaps one just assumes that they will be read. This must be the list for what to read when you’ve exhausted J.K.’s list.
#6 – Finally, I’m surprised Go Ask Alice didn’t make the list. Yes, the book is controversial, but this anonymously written book is a powerful testament to the dangers of drugs and addiction.
Check out Teenreads.com. It’s a great list for teens and adults alike.
Of course, my summer reading list contains a lot of romance, too. I’ve got some Alyssa Day, Cherry Adair, and Susan Elizabeth Phillips waiting to be read.
Happy summer reading.
Macy
Summer reading lists are posted. I’m lucky. Both of my step-kids like to read. Mikaela more than Jake (the younger), but both enjoy a good book.
My “now a 6th grader” has to read 3 books this summer and write a 3 to 5 paragraph summary (synopsis) of each. One must be from a “classics” list. He chose 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea – one of my personal favorites, but a difficult book, nonetheless. He also had to pick one book from a list of pre-approved authors. He chose Lemony Snicket. The last book was completely his choice. He says he’s going to read the second Artemis Fowl book. Good choices. By the end of the summer, he’s counted that he’ll have read more than 1000 pages. (Can anyone say future accountant? He’s a numbers sort of kid.)
My “now a sophomore” (yikes) has to read 2 books. Her high school has changed how they approach summer reading. No classics in the summer. The classics will all be taught during the school year. The purpose of this year’s summer reading is to excite kids to read. Therefore, all students and teachers at her school in grades 10-12 will be reading The Hot Zone. This is one of my all-time favorite books. I’m so excited they chose it. She has already read one of Richard Preston’s other books – The Demon in the Freezer – as her non-fiction choice for English as a freshman. She loved it, so I have hope that she’ll like this one, too. The other required book is Ender’s Game. This has been a book required of sophomores at her school for awhile now. I’m not sure she’ll like it as well. It’s science fiction and she doesn’t have a science fiction mind. She’s more of a “relationship” book reader. However, I have every reason to believe that Ender’s Game will one day be considered a classic. It’s that good.
It is strongly recommended that the high school students choose one other book from the following list to read over the summer. I perused the list this morning and found a delightful selection of books – something for everyone from non-fiction to fiction to spiritual to fantasy to mystery. Some of my favorites are on there – Libba Bray, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Orson Scott Card.
Of course, there were no romances on the list. I won’t go there.
However, I decided to make my Sunday Six this Sunday a list of 6 books that I think they left off. These books should have been on the list, as well, making the list 256+ great reads instead of 250+.
Oh, yeah, here's the list and a link: Teenreads.com
#1 – I’m glad the school where my kids go selected a Richard Preston book. Neither the Hot Zone nor The Demon in the Freezer made the Teenreads.com list. They should have. He has a new book out called The Wild Trees. It’s at the top of my summer reading list. I love his books. Back to the Hot Zone. Here’s a bit about it from http://www.richardpreston.net/books/hz.html .
#2 – I think Watership Down by Richard Adams should have made the list. I remember being mesmerized by the book. This sums up nicely what the books is all about:The Ebola virus kills nine out of ten of its victims so quickly and gruesomely that even biohazard experts are terrified. It is airborne, it is extremely contagious, and in the winter of 1989, it seemed about to burn through the suburbs of Washington D.C.
At Fort Detrick's USAMRIID, an Army research facility outside the nation's capital, a SWAT team of soldiers and scientists wearing biohazard space suits was organized to stop the outbreak of the exotic "hot" virus. The grim operation went on in secret for eighteen days, under unprecedented, dangerous conditions.
The Hot Zone tells this dramatic story in depth, giving a hair-raising account of the appearance of rare and lethal viruses and their outbreaks in the human race.
Watership Down is not a sweet fable about bunnies; it's a gritty, often frightening tale, in which characters die or become injured and these facts of life are not disguised. Hunt quoted an interview with Adams, in which Adams said of his writing style, "I derived early the idea that one must at all costs tell the truth to children, not so much about mere physical pain and fear, but about the really unanswerable things—what [writer] Thomas Hardy called 'the essential grimness of the human situation." Paradoxically, Adams chose a tale about rabbits to do just that.
#3 – Let’s also add Elizabeth Gilbert’s soul-touching memoir to the list. Eat, Pray, Love may be a novel that only adult women can really “get”, but I don’t think so. I think it has something in it that can speak to everyone.
#4 – Last summer, the book on the top of my summer reading list was Elizabeth Kostova’s The Historian. I loved the book because I truly felt transported to another time and place. Salon.com sums up the book better than I could. It is about “a band of intrepid historians hunt for the real-life Dracula -- and visit plenty of far-flung European locales -- in this hypnotic multigenerational mystery.”
Here’s a bit more:
#5 – Um, how did Gone with the Wind not make the list?Elizabeth Kostova's "The Historian" is a hypnotic yarn, saturated in authentic history and eerie intrigue. Kostova has a genius for evoking places without making you wade through paragraphs of description. The "fluttering hush" of the Carpathian forests, the chaotic streets of Istanbul, a cryptic ritual dance in a Bulgarian village unchanged in hundreds of years -- all impress themselves on the reader almost as vividly as actual memories. "The Historian" also imparts a sense of how real historians work (sifting through archives of ancient ledgers to find that crucial and revealing letter, etc.) and of a sizable chunk of Central Europe's ravaged past as a borderland between Christendom and the encroaching Ottoman Empire.
#5 ½ -- Can we all question how none of J.K. Rowling’s books made the teenreads list? Perhaps one just assumes that they will be read. This must be the list for what to read when you’ve exhausted J.K.’s list.
#6 – Finally, I’m surprised Go Ask Alice didn’t make the list. Yes, the book is controversial, but this anonymously written book is a powerful testament to the dangers of drugs and addiction.
Check out Teenreads.com. It’s a great list for teens and adults alike.
Of course, my summer reading list contains a lot of romance, too. I’ve got some Alyssa Day, Cherry Adair, and Susan Elizabeth Phillips waiting to be read.
Happy summer reading.
Macy
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
INTJ
There has been some discussion of personality types on AotP and related blogs lately. Whether it be a personality test from the Oprah mag or the full-out Meyers Briggs, personality tests are enlightening of both our attributes and our flaws.
I’ve known my Meyers Briggs (MB) type for many years. One year, early on in my current bill-paying job, everyone on staff had to take the MB. Then we went on a retreat. In a huge ballroom, the hundreds of employees of my work place scattered out and stood in areas marked with their personality type. The people in charge made it a game. At the end, out of hundreds of employees, I stood at the far end of the room in a small box labeled INTJ. Out of hundreds, there were 4 of us. We had room to lounge. Others were giddily crowded into boxes far too small for that many people. All those extroverts seemed to relish their tight confines. I was happy with my elbow room … until I looked around. Four of us. It hit me now. What did I have in common with these three who studied the room as carefully as I did?
Come to find out, INTJs aren’t all that common. We are about 1% of the population. Women INTJs are even more rare than men. Eegads. (“Freak!” I screamed at myself.)
My husband humorously read the description accompanying my analysis that night. Uh… he made it sound a bit unflattering at times. I rushed out to take it again. Surely, it was wrong. I wasn’t THAT person.
I’ve taken the test several times since then. I’ve tested as an INTJ about two dozen times – very strong on the I and N and T, moderate to low on the J. I’ve tested INTP twice – both times I was in a funky mood.
My life as a writer clearly outlines why I’m an INTJ. Over the past year and a half that I’ve been writing seriously, I’ve tried everyone else’s ways of doing this writing thing. I’m finally settling on mine. I should have listened to my inner writer all along.
What have I learned about how I write that relates to my personality type? More than I can include here. But, I’ll attempt to enlighten you. Of course, I’m such a weak J, that a lot of the P info fits me, too.
First, some INTJ info:
Okay – um – I will finish this damn book and a dozen or more others. And frankly, I’m almost ready to say, I want to finish it without any more crits or any input. I want to follow wild ideas and see where they go.
This explains why the next idea and the next are so much more fun that the current one.
Yes. This is me. Always has been. I have a huge library of writing books and printouts, etc. I refer to them when I need to. I like to figure things out on my own. My inner critic sits in the classroom of mind in the front row.
Oh, can I ever see this. I realize that writers are supposed to write everyday, but really, that is just one person’s (or maybe many persons’) way of doing it. When I write every day, I get bogged down, backed up, overwhelmed. I need days off, doing other things, then I can sit down with a vengeance and pound out 10k in a month or less. It’s that conscious mind/unconscious mind thing. I really need the processing time.
Yes. I rely a lot on insight and intuition. I’m not a fact memorizer.
Oh, and if this doesn’t explain the pains of finishing my first novel. I was inspired and then I had to figure out all the whys and wherefores. I had to push myself. I still do. It’s the imagination that’s fun, not how to analyze a scene or turning points, etc. Mostly, I hope the instinct and intuition come into play on that stuff.
I tend to see big scenes and overall story lines in my head. I skip the transitions. I know I’ll have to go back, but I like the idea that I can color the trees green later. I know they are there. I see them. I’m not sure what kind they are or if the leaves are green or yellow, but I know where the cottage in the woods is and I know the path that meanders to it. I know the killer is lurking in the woods, and he's set a trap for the hero. I know the storm is coming. I know nightfall spells danger. Leaves, shmeaves. I'll get to that later.
Are you yawning yet? Sorry.
Yes, this has a point.
I’m figuring out my process. It isn’t like everyone else’s. I’m a minority in this world. I shouldn’t feel bad or like I’m doing it wrong when I do it differently. My way is okay, too.
My way: Don’t write everyday, but make writing a habit. Realize that I need some days off for idea fermentation, then the writing will blaze again. I can play with innovative ideas that others don’t get because with enough play, I can make them work. It makes my voice unique. I may not be able to explain to others where I’m going, but the concepts are all in my head even if I can’t spill the facts right now. I will eventually needs crits, but my own inner critic is such a part of me that she’s absorbing everything and applying it to my writing. She reads the books – both good and bad – with me and quickly sees the lessons I need and the associations to my own writing. I may miss a few little things (too many of which I’m aware can become big things), but the overall picture is big and clear and it’s mine.
I will own it and protect it and defend it. I will gather new ideas to it – ideas that work – and replace ideas that no longer serve an effective purpose. But I will not do it the way someone else does just because they are brilliant or it works for them. I’m learning what works for me and that’s what counts.
Macy
PS. Quoted passages from Looking at Type and Learning Styles by Gordon Lawrence, Ph.D
I’ve known my Meyers Briggs (MB) type for many years. One year, early on in my current bill-paying job, everyone on staff had to take the MB. Then we went on a retreat. In a huge ballroom, the hundreds of employees of my work place scattered out and stood in areas marked with their personality type. The people in charge made it a game. At the end, out of hundreds of employees, I stood at the far end of the room in a small box labeled INTJ. Out of hundreds, there were 4 of us. We had room to lounge. Others were giddily crowded into boxes far too small for that many people. All those extroverts seemed to relish their tight confines. I was happy with my elbow room … until I looked around. Four of us. It hit me now. What did I have in common with these three who studied the room as carefully as I did?
Come to find out, INTJs aren’t all that common. We are about 1% of the population. Women INTJs are even more rare than men. Eegads. (“Freak!” I screamed at myself.)
My husband humorously read the description accompanying my analysis that night. Uh… he made it sound a bit unflattering at times. I rushed out to take it again. Surely, it was wrong. I wasn’t THAT person.
I’ve taken the test several times since then. I’ve tested as an INTJ about two dozen times – very strong on the I and N and T, moderate to low on the J. I’ve tested INTP twice – both times I was in a funky mood.
My life as a writer clearly outlines why I’m an INTJ. Over the past year and a half that I’ve been writing seriously, I’ve tried everyone else’s ways of doing this writing thing. I’m finally settling on mine. I should have listened to my inner writer all along.
What have I learned about how I write that relates to my personality type? More than I can include here. But, I’ll attempt to enlighten you. Of course, I’m such a weak J, that a lot of the P info fits me, too.
First, some INTJ info:
“Logical, critical, decisive innovators of ideas; serious, intent, very independent, concerned with organization; determined, often stubborn.”
Okay – um – I will finish this damn book and a dozen or more others. And frankly, I’m almost ready to say, I want to finish it without any more crits or any input. I want to follow wild ideas and see where they go.
“They thrive on the surge of inspiration that comes with a new idea or interest.”
This explains why the next idea and the next are so much more fun that the current one.
“Highly independent, they often prefer to teach themselves what they believe they need to know, but they also appreciate the contributions of a teacher they regard as competent. They dislike most kinds of group work in school, and they like to find their own way through new material. They set high standards for their work, push themselves hard, and are self-critical when their results do not meet their expectations.”
Yes. This is me. Always has been. I have a huge library of writing books and printouts, etc. I refer to them when I need to. I like to figure things out on my own. My inner critic sits in the classroom of mind in the front row.
“INTJs describe their minds as a continuous flow of ideas. They construct and reconstruct mental models of their ideas, envisioning how things could be made or done. Their kind of mind is quick in seeing associations and meanings, reading between the lines, and grasping general concepts. They put a high value on intellectual quickness.
Many meanings come to them when their conscious mind is focused on something else. Some of their best problem solving comes out of unconscious processing, where ideas have been cooking on the back burner. They are most likely to be effective when they allow time for that process to happen.”
Oh, can I ever see this. I realize that writers are supposed to write everyday, but really, that is just one person’s (or maybe many persons’) way of doing it. When I write every day, I get bogged down, backed up, overwhelmed. I need days off, doing other things, then I can sit down with a vengeance and pound out 10k in a month or less. It’s that conscious mind/unconscious mind thing. I really need the processing time.
“They rely on insight more than careful observation, and on conceptual and language skills more than on their memory of facts.”
Yes. I rely a lot on insight and intuition. I’m not a fact memorizer.
“They believe competence comes through inspiration, insight, and analytical thinking. Sometimes the surge of inspiration that energizes their learning is brought up short by the reality of having to master essentials that aren’t inspiring. Many times they have to push themselves to get interested in learning some ‘essentials’ because their goal of mastery takes priority in that situation.”
Oh, and if this doesn’t explain the pains of finishing my first novel. I was inspired and then I had to figure out all the whys and wherefores. I had to push myself. I still do. It’s the imagination that’s fun, not how to analyze a scene or turning points, etc. Mostly, I hope the instinct and intuition come into play on that stuff.
“They like to see the big picture even if missing some steps or details may hinder them later.”
I tend to see big scenes and overall story lines in my head. I skip the transitions. I know I’ll have to go back, but I like the idea that I can color the trees green later. I know they are there. I see them. I’m not sure what kind they are or if the leaves are green or yellow, but I know where the cottage in the woods is and I know the path that meanders to it. I know the killer is lurking in the woods, and he's set a trap for the hero. I know the storm is coming. I know nightfall spells danger. Leaves, shmeaves. I'll get to that later.
Are you yawning yet? Sorry.
Yes, this has a point.
I’m figuring out my process. It isn’t like everyone else’s. I’m a minority in this world. I shouldn’t feel bad or like I’m doing it wrong when I do it differently. My way is okay, too.
My way: Don’t write everyday, but make writing a habit. Realize that I need some days off for idea fermentation, then the writing will blaze again. I can play with innovative ideas that others don’t get because with enough play, I can make them work. It makes my voice unique. I may not be able to explain to others where I’m going, but the concepts are all in my head even if I can’t spill the facts right now. I will eventually needs crits, but my own inner critic is such a part of me that she’s absorbing everything and applying it to my writing. She reads the books – both good and bad – with me and quickly sees the lessons I need and the associations to my own writing. I may miss a few little things (too many of which I’m aware can become big things), but the overall picture is big and clear and it’s mine.
I will own it and protect it and defend it. I will gather new ideas to it – ideas that work – and replace ideas that no longer serve an effective purpose. But I will not do it the way someone else does just because they are brilliant or it works for them. I’m learning what works for me and that’s what counts.
Macy
PS. Quoted passages from Looking at Type and Learning Styles by Gordon Lawrence, Ph.D
Friday, May 18, 2007
Happy Birthday with a chippendale
Warning-- this is pure silliness.
Okay, the scoop on the birthdays--
In January, Samantha and Roxy have back to back birthdays. Interestingly, they work in the same industry near the top of the ladder. They email on our loop a little less than the rest of us (a lot less than me, the grand master poster). They both live in cool, western cities. They have a more practical and grounded view when it comes to religion and new agey "airy fairy" stuff. Simply put, they share many similarities-- although, of course, there are differences, too, and they have unique voices. Since I'm new agey, however, I give weight to the similarities and say, "Hmmm. Interesting that there is a possible astrological basis for what they have in common."
Giggle if you wish. Whatever you believe, astrology is still fun, no?
In May, Jackie and I have back to back birthdays. May 20th for Jackie and the 21st for me. We're right on the Taurus-Gemini cusp. We have certain similarities, too. We're both of Celtic and Nordic descent. We both married Italian guys. We're both stay at home moms. Our pasts have eerie similarities. But there are also big differences. I can see that I have more of the irritable, Gemini twin in me. (Waaah, who wants to be irritable?)
Anyway, I have two different books that give little astrological revelations by birth date. The first is called the Portable Book of Birthdays. The second is What Your Birthday Reveals About You. I use them as a resource for choosing character birthdays and to amaze my friends and family. Just kidding on the latter.
Today, I sent Jackie her birthday "revelations."
From the Portable Book of Birthdays -- Such a sweetheart. Self-centered but lovable, others quickly forgive your minor faults. You make new friends easily. You're not a rocket scientist, but then who is? Still, you're bright. Your friends may need sunglasses. Fun? If you're there, it's fun.
Famous people born on the 20th-- Cher, Busta Rhymes, Honore de Balzac, Jimmy Stewart
Oddly, what I didn't mention to Jackie, is a warning to protect her own eyesight-- Always protect your own eyesight as well, bright one. To understand why that gave me chills, ask Jackie about her dental misadventures and how she ended up half-blind. Scary!
From What Your Birthday Reveals About You-- The individual born on May 20th is charming and friendly, with the easy manner of someone who has been blessed with a winning personality. You are versatile, original, communicative and imaginative. A creative thinker with an artistic temperament, your hands and brain seem to work together in perfect harmony. Sociable and lighthearted, you generally respond to people and situations more quickly and openly than other Bulls. Placid, stable Taurus exerts a calming effect on Gemini's nervous, restless nature. Even so, you tend to flip flop. You like things safe and serene, yet crave change and diversity. A good listener and a persuasive talker, you're also astute at working behind the scenes. When you're thwarted in your efforts, you mix a bit of cunning with your charm to help turn things around. As a romantic partner, you are affectionate, sensual and exciting. you want the love and security of family life, but you also want the freedom and independence to pursue your own dreams.
On this day, the Norse festival of Mjollnir celebrates Thor's hammer.
Very nice. Jackie says it rings true. So then we move on to me.
The Portable Book of Birthdays is a bit smart alecky. You may have gathered that from the rocket scientist crack. Check this out for those born of 5/21--
You're a perfect fit for a warm spring day-- friendly, not a prejudiced bone in your body, a little dynamo of sparkling activity. (SO FAR, SO GOOD.) Holding onto things can be a pain since you're not real good at keeping track. Being a little more orderly would help. (HELLO? HAVE YOU BEEN TALKING TO THE DH, CUZ I KNOW HE'S STILL PEEVED THAT I DROPPED A HUNDRED DOLLAR BILL AND DIDN'T NOTICE. LUCKILY HE DID, BUT HE 'S NEVER GOTTEN OVER IT.) A good life can turn you into a pumpkin, or at least a round radish, so exercise and watching your diet as you grow older is a must. Age slows your metabolism down. Duh. (UH OH. HOW DID THEY KNOW THAT? DID THEY SEE THE PICTURE I POSTED AT MY ALYSON BLOG TODAY. LOOK, I'M WORKING ON IT!) Learn how to budget both time and expenses because impulse shopping and sloppy bill paying come easy.
Good grief, on the pumpkin thing. Note Jackie's description says nothing at all about turning into a damn pumpkin!
Famous people born on May 21st -- Raymond Burr (yikes on the pumpkin thang!)and Fats Waller(gulp!)
I'm properly aghast, so let's move on.
From What Your Birthday Reveals About You--
I'm noting that the first part of this is funny because I recently claimed that I don't like to rush around when in truth I don't like to pack my schedule tight because I always end up rushing and whirling around no matter what, and I'd truly prefer if I didn't. Anyway--
Twins born on the 21st are the whirling dervishes of the zodiac. You whirl from place to place, meeting people and gleaning bits of news and information as you go.A consummate communicator, you can barely wait to share what you've learned with others. Although you skim the surface of most subjects, you have a knack for zeroing in on the essentials. As a result, you often have a better understanding of people and situations than those who pride themselves on probing deeply for the facts. People born on the May 21 are optimistic, versatile and independent. You believe in yourself and in your ability to overcome difficulties. You aren't afraid to act on hunches. Because you're convinced variety is the spice of life, you're always on the lookout for new challenges and adventures. Your restless temperament abhors a vacuum so you fervently resist attempts to box you in. Boring company and dull, tedious situations won't hold you for long.
In love and romance, it takes both intellectual and physical stimulation to keep you interested. Effusive emotion and unremitting intimacy can scare you off.
Okay, so that's all pretty true, and the last bit explains why I don't think I'm all that romantic although my chickies here have assured me that I am:)
Happy birthday to us,Jackie. Enjoy the video when the girls are sleeping--ha!
Alyson
Okay, the scoop on the birthdays--
In January, Samantha and Roxy have back to back birthdays. Interestingly, they work in the same industry near the top of the ladder. They email on our loop a little less than the rest of us (a lot less than me, the grand master poster). They both live in cool, western cities. They have a more practical and grounded view when it comes to religion and new agey "airy fairy" stuff. Simply put, they share many similarities-- although, of course, there are differences, too, and they have unique voices. Since I'm new agey, however, I give weight to the similarities and say, "Hmmm. Interesting that there is a possible astrological basis for what they have in common."
Giggle if you wish. Whatever you believe, astrology is still fun, no?
In May, Jackie and I have back to back birthdays. May 20th for Jackie and the 21st for me. We're right on the Taurus-Gemini cusp. We have certain similarities, too. We're both of Celtic and Nordic descent. We both married Italian guys. We're both stay at home moms. Our pasts have eerie similarities. But there are also big differences. I can see that I have more of the irritable, Gemini twin in me. (Waaah, who wants to be irritable?)
Anyway, I have two different books that give little astrological revelations by birth date. The first is called the Portable Book of Birthdays. The second is What Your Birthday Reveals About You. I use them as a resource for choosing character birthdays and to amaze my friends and family. Just kidding on the latter.
Today, I sent Jackie her birthday "revelations."
From the Portable Book of Birthdays -- Such a sweetheart. Self-centered but lovable, others quickly forgive your minor faults. You make new friends easily. You're not a rocket scientist, but then who is? Still, you're bright. Your friends may need sunglasses. Fun? If you're there, it's fun.
Famous people born on the 20th-- Cher, Busta Rhymes, Honore de Balzac, Jimmy Stewart
Oddly, what I didn't mention to Jackie, is a warning to protect her own eyesight-- Always protect your own eyesight as well, bright one. To understand why that gave me chills, ask Jackie about her dental misadventures and how she ended up half-blind. Scary!
From What Your Birthday Reveals About You-- The individual born on May 20th is charming and friendly, with the easy manner of someone who has been blessed with a winning personality. You are versatile, original, communicative and imaginative. A creative thinker with an artistic temperament, your hands and brain seem to work together in perfect harmony. Sociable and lighthearted, you generally respond to people and situations more quickly and openly than other Bulls. Placid, stable Taurus exerts a calming effect on Gemini's nervous, restless nature. Even so, you tend to flip flop. You like things safe and serene, yet crave change and diversity. A good listener and a persuasive talker, you're also astute at working behind the scenes. When you're thwarted in your efforts, you mix a bit of cunning with your charm to help turn things around. As a romantic partner, you are affectionate, sensual and exciting. you want the love and security of family life, but you also want the freedom and independence to pursue your own dreams.
On this day, the Norse festival of Mjollnir celebrates Thor's hammer.
Very nice. Jackie says it rings true. So then we move on to me.
The Portable Book of Birthdays is a bit smart alecky. You may have gathered that from the rocket scientist crack. Check this out for those born of 5/21--
You're a perfect fit for a warm spring day-- friendly, not a prejudiced bone in your body, a little dynamo of sparkling activity. (SO FAR, SO GOOD.) Holding onto things can be a pain since you're not real good at keeping track. Being a little more orderly would help. (HELLO? HAVE YOU BEEN TALKING TO THE DH, CUZ I KNOW HE'S STILL PEEVED THAT I DROPPED A HUNDRED DOLLAR BILL AND DIDN'T NOTICE. LUCKILY HE DID, BUT HE 'S NEVER GOTTEN OVER IT.) A good life can turn you into a pumpkin, or at least a round radish, so exercise and watching your diet as you grow older is a must. Age slows your metabolism down. Duh. (UH OH. HOW DID THEY KNOW THAT? DID THEY SEE THE PICTURE I POSTED AT MY ALYSON BLOG TODAY. LOOK, I'M WORKING ON IT!) Learn how to budget both time and expenses because impulse shopping and sloppy bill paying come easy.
Good grief, on the pumpkin thing. Note Jackie's description says nothing at all about turning into a damn pumpkin!
Famous people born on May 21st -- Raymond Burr (yikes on the pumpkin thang!)and Fats Waller(gulp!)
I'm properly aghast, so let's move on.
From What Your Birthday Reveals About You--
I'm noting that the first part of this is funny because I recently claimed that I don't like to rush around when in truth I don't like to pack my schedule tight because I always end up rushing and whirling around no matter what, and I'd truly prefer if I didn't. Anyway--
Twins born on the 21st are the whirling dervishes of the zodiac. You whirl from place to place, meeting people and gleaning bits of news and information as you go.A consummate communicator, you can barely wait to share what you've learned with others. Although you skim the surface of most subjects, you have a knack for zeroing in on the essentials. As a result, you often have a better understanding of people and situations than those who pride themselves on probing deeply for the facts. People born on the May 21 are optimistic, versatile and independent. You believe in yourself and in your ability to overcome difficulties. You aren't afraid to act on hunches. Because you're convinced variety is the spice of life, you're always on the lookout for new challenges and adventures. Your restless temperament abhors a vacuum so you fervently resist attempts to box you in. Boring company and dull, tedious situations won't hold you for long.
In love and romance, it takes both intellectual and physical stimulation to keep you interested. Effusive emotion and unremitting intimacy can scare you off.
Okay, so that's all pretty true, and the last bit explains why I don't think I'm all that romantic although my chickies here have assured me that I am:)
Happy birthday to us,Jackie. Enjoy the video when the girls are sleeping--ha!
Alyson
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Sunday Six - Heroines
Here at Affairs of the Pen, we have been talking about their favorite heroes and heroines. We picked six of our favorites and I will share my favorites with you.
I love my heroines because I relate to them so well, there is a little bit of me in each one of them.
1. Hermione Granger of Harry Potter: She makes being bookish cool and being a know it all rather endearing, even though it stems from being deeply insecure and feeling completely inadequate. She is spunky, calm, collected, and best of all a loyal and true friend in all circumstances.
2. Emma of Jane’s Austin’s Emma: Emma has a heart of gold, but she can take her charity too far. I relate to Emma. We both continually overextend ourselves to help others and much to our dismay disaster always ensues and we end up hurting ourselves as well as the people we care about.
3. Bridget Jones of Helen Felding’s Bridget Jones’ Diary: Ok, I know this book is a blatant plagiarism of Jane Austin, but I still love the story and her endearing Bridget. She is loyal, caring, and a real heroine. I can also relate to Bridget very well. Slightly overweight, always saying the wrong things, being a complete slob and clumsy ox...Bridget and I are twins! Plus, I too drink a little bit too much wine.
4. Madeline Hunter’s Nesta of Stealing Heaven: Proud and loyal even though she has been outcast by society. A true fighter, she never gives up even though her situation is pretty bleak.
5. Keira of Hanna Howell’s Highland Champion: I think the reason I like her is because she is an energy healer.
6. Kim Possible: Ok, I know she is a cartoon character. BUT I LOVE HER! Not only is she smart, strong, fearless, but she loves her goofy sidekick Ron...definitely not an alpha male hero. I tell my daughters the show is really about me. She really can save the world.
I love my heroines because I relate to them so well, there is a little bit of me in each one of them.
1. Hermione Granger of Harry Potter: She makes being bookish cool and being a know it all rather endearing, even though it stems from being deeply insecure and feeling completely inadequate. She is spunky, calm, collected, and best of all a loyal and true friend in all circumstances.
2. Emma of Jane’s Austin’s Emma: Emma has a heart of gold, but she can take her charity too far. I relate to Emma. We both continually overextend ourselves to help others and much to our dismay disaster always ensues and we end up hurting ourselves as well as the people we care about.
3. Bridget Jones of Helen Felding’s Bridget Jones’ Diary: Ok, I know this book is a blatant plagiarism of Jane Austin, but I still love the story and her endearing Bridget. She is loyal, caring, and a real heroine. I can also relate to Bridget very well. Slightly overweight, always saying the wrong things, being a complete slob and clumsy ox...Bridget and I are twins! Plus, I too drink a little bit too much wine.
4. Madeline Hunter’s Nesta of Stealing Heaven: Proud and loyal even though she has been outcast by society. A true fighter, she never gives up even though her situation is pretty bleak.
5. Keira of Hanna Howell’s Highland Champion: I think the reason I like her is because she is an energy healer.
6. Kim Possible: Ok, I know she is a cartoon character. BUT I LOVE HER! Not only is she smart, strong, fearless, but she loves her goofy sidekick Ron...definitely not an alpha male hero. I tell my daughters the show is really about me. She really can save the world.
Publishing news
Hmm. Like Alyson, I’m jonesing to be part of the romance writing industry. However, I received this email from a member of my local RWA today. It’s actually a post from Author’s Guild.
Yikes. As I anticipate getting a contract (sooner hopefully than later), this reminds me to read the small print AND have a really good agent. Agent Kristen talked about it over at Pub Rants, too.
I have a writer friend and a writer acquaintance who’ve both purchased manuscripts back from the publishers who originally bought them. One is a local friend. She bought her rights back from Triskelion when her book wasn't marketed or selling the way they'd promised -- it only ever got epubbed. It never went to "real" book form, as contracted. (Considering all the hullabuloo lately … not a bad move.) The acquaintance got all the way to cover art and had a fiasco ending the publication process. (Yikes, I didn’t even know that could happen.) She bought back her rights, too, and sold it to someone else.
Oh... and I know someone else whose category romances have been out of print for awhile. Her rights reverted back to her. Now she can do what she wants with them.
Simon & Schuster’s new policy would prevent that. Forever.
What author would think that’s a good idea?
No one.
Thank goodness for good agents, like Agent Kristen over at Pub Rants, who mentions she’ll likely have to shop her writers to other places – if Simon & Schuster choose to keep the new change to their contracts.
On another note entirely ….
I’m loving my story again. I think with every story (and I know because I’ve written so many) you go through periods where you like it less or more.
It’s kind of like marriage. There are moments when you are in love with it – madly, deeply, soulfully. You can’t get enough of it. Then there are other times, when you really try to avoid it. You aren’t sure what to do with it. It’s a lot more work than you thought it would be when you made the commitment. There are other attractive stories out there, but you have soooo much invested in this. And, what a loser you’d be just to jump from story to story and never see one through to the end. So, you work harder at it. You try to identify the problems. You seek some help from those who’ve been there. And then you work really hard to fix it.
I’ve always heard that good marriages took work. I have one. They do.
Good stories take work, too. I’m working on one that at least I like. It’s taken work. Lots of other stories looked better for awhile, but this is the one I’m committed to. I’ll see it through to the end.
And, I won’t sell to S&S.
Macy
Simon & Schuster has changed its standard contract language in an attempt to retain exclusive control of books even after they have gone out of print. Until now, Simon & Schuster, like all other major trade publishers, has followed the traditional practice in which rights to a work revert to the author if the book falls out of print or if its sales are low.
The publisher is signaling that it will no longer include minimum sales requirements for a work to be considered in print. Simon & Schuster is apparently seeking nothing less than an exclusive grant of rights in perpetuity. Effectively, the publisher would co-own your copyright.
The new contract would allow Simon & Schuster to consider a book in print, and under its exclusive control, so long as it’s available in any form, including through its own in-house database -- even if no copies are available to be ordered by traditional bookstores.
Other major trade publishers are not seeking a similar perpetual grant of rights.
We urge you to consider your options carefully:
1. Remember that if you sign a contract with Simon & Schuster that includes this clause, they’ll say you’re wed to them. Your book will live and die with this particular conglomerate.
2. Ask your agent to explore other options. Other publishers are not seeking an irrevocable grant of rights.
3. If you have a manuscript that may be auctioned, consider asking your agent to exclude Simon & Schuster imprints unless they agree before the auction to use industry standard terms.
4. Let us know if other major publishers follow suit. Any coordination among publishers on this matter has serious legal implications.
Feel free to forward and post this message in its entirety.
Yikes. As I anticipate getting a contract (sooner hopefully than later), this reminds me to read the small print AND have a really good agent. Agent Kristen talked about it over at Pub Rants, too.
I have a writer friend and a writer acquaintance who’ve both purchased manuscripts back from the publishers who originally bought them. One is a local friend. She bought her rights back from Triskelion when her book wasn't marketed or selling the way they'd promised -- it only ever got epubbed. It never went to "real" book form, as contracted. (Considering all the hullabuloo lately … not a bad move.) The acquaintance got all the way to cover art and had a fiasco ending the publication process. (Yikes, I didn’t even know that could happen.) She bought back her rights, too, and sold it to someone else.
Oh... and I know someone else whose category romances have been out of print for awhile. Her rights reverted back to her. Now she can do what she wants with them.
Simon & Schuster’s new policy would prevent that. Forever.
What author would think that’s a good idea?
No one.
Thank goodness for good agents, like Agent Kristen over at Pub Rants, who mentions she’ll likely have to shop her writers to other places – if Simon & Schuster choose to keep the new change to their contracts.
On another note entirely ….
I’m loving my story again. I think with every story (and I know because I’ve written so many) you go through periods where you like it less or more.
It’s kind of like marriage. There are moments when you are in love with it – madly, deeply, soulfully. You can’t get enough of it. Then there are other times, when you really try to avoid it. You aren’t sure what to do with it. It’s a lot more work than you thought it would be when you made the commitment. There are other attractive stories out there, but you have soooo much invested in this. And, what a loser you’d be just to jump from story to story and never see one through to the end. So, you work harder at it. You try to identify the problems. You seek some help from those who’ve been there. And then you work really hard to fix it.
I’ve always heard that good marriages took work. I have one. They do.
Good stories take work, too. I’m working on one that at least I like. It’s taken work. Lots of other stories looked better for awhile, but this is the one I’m committed to. I’ll see it through to the end.
And, I won’t sell to S&S.
Macy
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Len is CRAZY!
If you read my Alys on Love blog, you know I'm a big fan of the show Dancing With the Stars. As a kid I wanted to be a dancer and a writer-- my two big dreams. I've watched each season faithfully. I'm typically torn by the semifinals, but no great injustice has been done, in my opinion. Kelly Monaco had heart and was the most improved dancer that season. I didn't like when they scheduled a second dance-off, but whatever. Drew outdanced Stacey in the second season's finale. Although I not-so-secretly wanted Joey and Edyta to win the third season, he took third place and the three dancers that danced in the finale were the three that deserved it. Plus, no one can deny Emmett's charm. Mario was the better dancer but he ended up with Karina, a much better prize than the trophy, in my humble opinion. I recently read they've moved in together. This season, the three celebrities going into the finale are the best of the group. They have been my favorites since week one. HOWEVER, tonight I watched the recap of last night's show and I was infuriated with Len's assessment of Apolo's cha cha with Julianne. (Click here and scroll down to the you tube video of the cha cha if you'd like to see it.) I LOVED it! If Laila and Ian deserved 30's, Apolo sure as heck did. The only one that outdanced him was Joey, and I can't even say that with a clear conscious. WTF! Too raunchy, my left foot! That's right-- Len said it was too raunchy. There was too much gyrating for him. Puh-lease.
No worries, folks. There is a writing analogy here, believe it or not. Remember all my whining about crits and crit groups a few weeks ago? Well, I ended up asking two people from another writing group to swap drafts with me--to be crit partners. Unfortunately both of those people have had quite a bit of drama going on their lives lately-- bad, sad, life-threatening difficult drama. I truly feel for them both. I've said prayers and sent positive, hopeful vibes. However, what happened next has thrown me for a loop. It will seem trivial, of course, but remember I'm self-absorbed. Here's what happened next--
They passed my draft on to the rest of their group -- and I received crits back. Ugh! Three, possibly four, of these people remind me of Len. They're older than sin and they interpret everything as "raunch."
Okay, maybe not everything. Let's be clear here--they interpret my work as raunchy, bawdy, all heavy breathing and no substance. Clearly, they're not my target audience but WTF. Who asked you? Certainly, not moi! As one of the audience members said of Len, perhaps, they need more bran.
Maybe a lot more bran. Maybe, even, some hard core ex-lax.
Did mention I'm a bit feisty?
Exhale. I feel better now. We can return to our regularly scheduled program with Macy on Thursday -- and, perhaps, our homeschooling diva, Jackie, tomorrow.
No worries. This happened a week or so ago and I've deposited the crits in the garbage can. Protect the work. Let the public vote when the time comes.
Don't tick me off anymore, Len.
Cheers, happy writing and go, go, go Apolo and Julianne,
Alyson
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Ice cream relieves the pain
Ahhh, late night blogging again! I have been absent for a few weeks due to, well, lets just say “Oh the Drama!”, but now it is simmering down. Presently I find myself, late at night, in front of my Mac. The house is quiet, and I have all my time to myself. No laundry, no kids, no nagging. The Night Jasmine is even in bloom and the Tradewinds are carrying it down from the mountains to my window. I think I love writing at night. Yes, I am tired and words do not flow as well, but it is peaceful, and I have no interruptions.
Do any of you writers out there suffer from lack of family support? Writing is becoming a dirty word in our household. It is partially my own fault. I agreed to be the stay at home Mom, I agreed not to work during our marriage, and I agreed to home-school our children. Yet, my stories are calling me and I can not ignore them any longer.
I think the major battle began when I decided I wanted to go to the Romance Writers of America Conference in Dallas. This has been the heartache and the headache of my household. It was begrudgingly agreed upon when there was the possibility of getting to meet with agents and editors. But now, being only 25K into my story almost a year later, it is obvious that if I was lucky enough to get a general membership appointment with someone, I would have nothing to show. There in lies the problem. I bite my tongue as the fury abounds and try to convince myself that I can be a stepford wife for as long as humanly possible to have the opportunity to go. For nothing else, I will get three days of vacation, and a chance to meet these great friends who have endeared themselves to me over the past year.
So, off I will go with my workshop list in hand, and hopefully I will comeback refreshed and rejuvenated with new skills to keep my story going. So many of the workshops look wonderful. I am having a hard time deciding between the career workshops versus the writing workshops. The writing workshops would be the most helpful in finishing my story, but the career workshops will help me to sell the story. It is dubious that I will have the opportunity to go again unless I actually sell a book. Which, honestly I do not care about. I want to write, if it sells great, if not ...well, I still will have written a book. Ah- so the goals of the week are: A. Transform into the Perfect Wife and B. Decide which workshops will be most beneficial. OR alternatively C. Go to the freezer and sneak some Breyers Chocolate ice cream now that everyone is in Bed.
mmmmmm, I will let you know how it goes.
Do any of you writers out there suffer from lack of family support? Writing is becoming a dirty word in our household. It is partially my own fault. I agreed to be the stay at home Mom, I agreed not to work during our marriage, and I agreed to home-school our children. Yet, my stories are calling me and I can not ignore them any longer.
I think the major battle began when I decided I wanted to go to the Romance Writers of America Conference in Dallas. This has been the heartache and the headache of my household. It was begrudgingly agreed upon when there was the possibility of getting to meet with agents and editors. But now, being only 25K into my story almost a year later, it is obvious that if I was lucky enough to get a general membership appointment with someone, I would have nothing to show. There in lies the problem. I bite my tongue as the fury abounds and try to convince myself that I can be a stepford wife for as long as humanly possible to have the opportunity to go. For nothing else, I will get three days of vacation, and a chance to meet these great friends who have endeared themselves to me over the past year.
So, off I will go with my workshop list in hand, and hopefully I will comeback refreshed and rejuvenated with new skills to keep my story going. So many of the workshops look wonderful. I am having a hard time deciding between the career workshops versus the writing workshops. The writing workshops would be the most helpful in finishing my story, but the career workshops will help me to sell the story. It is dubious that I will have the opportunity to go again unless I actually sell a book. Which, honestly I do not care about. I want to write, if it sells great, if not ...well, I still will have written a book. Ah- so the goals of the week are: A. Transform into the Perfect Wife and B. Decide which workshops will be most beneficial. OR alternatively C. Go to the freezer and sneak some Breyers Chocolate ice cream now that everyone is in Bed.
mmmmmm, I will let you know how it goes.
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Don't call me slow
I finally understand the whole concept of an artist date. Now, don’t call me slow. I know it’s taken me awhile to get it, but realize that you’re talking to the ultimate pragmatist. Therefore, I’ve always been a tangible results kind of girl.
The idea of feeding the muses is a new one for me because, quite frankly, I starved the little foundlings for so long I’m surprised they recognized me at all. I fed them slowly at first – painting a room an interesting color, giving myself permission to lay around and daydream. Then, I began to tentatively type my stories. The muses sat up. They liked it – the color, the daydreams, the stories. The bland food, the slow feeding began to fatten them up and give them energy.
Eventually, they said, “More.”
I tried to give it to them. I tried to do the artsy things that artsy types are supposed to enjoy – museums, antique shops, quaint little stores tucked into quaint little places, crafts.
The muses yawned forgivingly for awhile and politely told me it was nice, that it was the thought that counted.
I worried. Wasn’t I doing the things that creative types were supposed to enjoy?
I was a little bored, but the muses liked it, right?
“Uh, no,” they said. “Not at all.”
When I didn’t get it, they rebelled. Nice. (Not really.) What they did was appalling to the struggling writer I’d become. They stopped handing up pages. They told me what I wrote wasn’t quite right. They fed me confusing images. They said enough bread and butter, and we don’t like the plain cakes you’re shoving at us. We want the good stuff. Eclairs, Sopaipillas, Killer Cake.
They really wanted fattening up in specific ways. Ways that were unique to me. Ways that really spoke to what I’m all about. They wanted me to remember the things that once fed them long ago before I abandoned them to practical, sane, prudent pursuits.
They wanted equal time with responsibility and duty.
Oh dear.
I’ve recently had the good fortune to recall exactly what it is the muses crave. Hikes in mountains, travel, physical challenge just because it’s there, traversing a hillside or a plain on horseback, a good movie on the DVD player, organized sacred areas, big plans, hot coffee in quaint cafes for long breaks from reality.
You see, an artist date isn’t about what you’re supposed to like as an artist. It’s about what you do like as an artist. Quite frankly, I’ve never been one for art museums. What do I like? Being outdoors. Quite cafes with good coffee. Late dinners in cozy atmospheres with ample red wine and close friends. Pajamas and movies under the covers on rainy days. Horseback riding. Decorating my new office space. Going to bookstores with absolutely no purpose in mind. Traveling to places I haven’t been. Live music. Sunrises.
When you demand the muses create daily, you need to give back to them. All work and no play just doesn’t cut it. Sometimes, however, that’s hard to remember. Between jobs that pay the bills and making (not finding – it’s harder than that) time to write and trying to get enough rest to function, soul feeding gets left out sometimes.
I have new priorities now.
First, finish the book and start the next one – whatever that happens to be.
Second, listen to the muses so I’ll know what we both need, then give it to us.
Third, remember on a daily basis that life is too short to be pragmatic, sane and dutiful all the time.
And finally, be true to the vision of who I am, to my voice, to my dreams and my desires and my paths for getting there.
Macy
The idea of feeding the muses is a new one for me because, quite frankly, I starved the little foundlings for so long I’m surprised they recognized me at all. I fed them slowly at first – painting a room an interesting color, giving myself permission to lay around and daydream. Then, I began to tentatively type my stories. The muses sat up. They liked it – the color, the daydreams, the stories. The bland food, the slow feeding began to fatten them up and give them energy.
Eventually, they said, “More.”
I tried to give it to them. I tried to do the artsy things that artsy types are supposed to enjoy – museums, antique shops, quaint little stores tucked into quaint little places, crafts.
The muses yawned forgivingly for awhile and politely told me it was nice, that it was the thought that counted.
I worried. Wasn’t I doing the things that creative types were supposed to enjoy?
I was a little bored, but the muses liked it, right?
“Uh, no,” they said. “Not at all.”
When I didn’t get it, they rebelled. Nice. (Not really.) What they did was appalling to the struggling writer I’d become. They stopped handing up pages. They told me what I wrote wasn’t quite right. They fed me confusing images. They said enough bread and butter, and we don’t like the plain cakes you’re shoving at us. We want the good stuff. Eclairs, Sopaipillas, Killer Cake.
They really wanted fattening up in specific ways. Ways that were unique to me. Ways that really spoke to what I’m all about. They wanted me to remember the things that once fed them long ago before I abandoned them to practical, sane, prudent pursuits.
They wanted equal time with responsibility and duty.
Oh dear.
I’ve recently had the good fortune to recall exactly what it is the muses crave. Hikes in mountains, travel, physical challenge just because it’s there, traversing a hillside or a plain on horseback, a good movie on the DVD player, organized sacred areas, big plans, hot coffee in quaint cafes for long breaks from reality.
You see, an artist date isn’t about what you’re supposed to like as an artist. It’s about what you do like as an artist. Quite frankly, I’ve never been one for art museums. What do I like? Being outdoors. Quite cafes with good coffee. Late dinners in cozy atmospheres with ample red wine and close friends. Pajamas and movies under the covers on rainy days. Horseback riding. Decorating my new office space. Going to bookstores with absolutely no purpose in mind. Traveling to places I haven’t been. Live music. Sunrises.
When you demand the muses create daily, you need to give back to them. All work and no play just doesn’t cut it. Sometimes, however, that’s hard to remember. Between jobs that pay the bills and making (not finding – it’s harder than that) time to write and trying to get enough rest to function, soul feeding gets left out sometimes.
I have new priorities now.
First, finish the book and start the next one – whatever that happens to be.
Second, listen to the muses so I’ll know what we both need, then give it to us.
Third, remember on a daily basis that life is too short to be pragmatic, sane and dutiful all the time.
And finally, be true to the vision of who I am, to my voice, to my dreams and my desires and my paths for getting there.
Macy
I have a new little space where I can dream big and where I can make it happen. I have some big spaces that
inspire me. Here are some pics – just thought Ishare.
Sunday, May 6, 2007
Send over the cheese . . .
To go with my whine. Yep, I'm whining again, although I managed to get a lot of it out of my system already. This time it's for our six-- then no more whining for a good two weeks, I promise.
Okay, so what drives me crazy about my writing process, situation, skills?
First, it's taken me a year to figure out my damn process, and I'm not done yet. I've listened to everyone and their uncle and the truth of the matter is I needed to hear it, read about it, play with it, BUT I've always gone to the beat of my own drummer. There are many things I didn't do on this first manuscript that I will do on my next one. For example, I'm a pantser and that's okay. Next novel, I'm just going to write, write, write what I know -- who , what, where, why, when, how. Write it out -- 50-100 pages worth of the 5 W's, stream of consciousness. Then I'll sort it out and write up a 5-7 page synopsis that highlights the turning points. From there, I will turn what I know into a complete first draft, allowing myself to veer as needed. Then I'll fix everything in another 3-4 drafts. And I will not show the first, or second draft to anyone. I will not ask everyone and their uncle their opinion. And I will not fret about how everyone else "does" it. I will know upfront that I'll need a little break once the first draft is complete. Once, I've fixed the first draft and I'm ready, I'll show my work to a critique partner or group, and consider contests or whatever. If I get stuck, I'll brainstorm with others but I'll cut back on just brainstorming to brainstorm cuz I don't know what the hell I'm doing. I think some of that stuff is procrastination, pure and simple.
Second, I have one hell of a time sticking to a daily writing schedule but it MUST be done.
Third, it drives me nuts, nuts, nuts that it takes me several drafts to layer in everything--setting, character nuances-- I want to layer in. But heck, that's the way it's done. I have to let go of envy, perfectionism, self criticism and learn to trust myself.
Fourth, it drives me INSANE that I add in so much extra crapola that needs to be cut. However, I think some of that will be addressed if I write out 50-100 pages of the 5W's upfront and really get to know the characters and what's going on.
Fifth, time--- time, time, time. I'd like nothing more than to be able to lock myself away for a month and write like a madwoman, but I have a life. I can't truly allow my obsession to take over (and I do get rather obsessed.) Hence the need for sticking to a practical, purposeful daily writing schedule.
Last, talent -- woe, woe, woe. I want to be one of those prodigies who writes with ease and magical brilliance. Such is not my situation. I'm one of those writers that has to bleed for every damn scene. And I bleed sloooooowly. ARGH!
Since I've whined a heck of a lot lately, I'll leave it at that.
Cheers and happy writing,
Alyson
p.s. Samantha went to a workshop last week and someone there said the first draft is like vomit. Oddly, that totally cheered me up. I'm not the only one avoiding the puke lying in the drawer:)
Okay, so what drives me crazy about my writing process, situation, skills?
First, it's taken me a year to figure out my damn process, and I'm not done yet. I've listened to everyone and their uncle and the truth of the matter is I needed to hear it, read about it, play with it, BUT I've always gone to the beat of my own drummer. There are many things I didn't do on this first manuscript that I will do on my next one. For example, I'm a pantser and that's okay. Next novel, I'm just going to write, write, write what I know -- who , what, where, why, when, how. Write it out -- 50-100 pages worth of the 5 W's, stream of consciousness. Then I'll sort it out and write up a 5-7 page synopsis that highlights the turning points. From there, I will turn what I know into a complete first draft, allowing myself to veer as needed. Then I'll fix everything in another 3-4 drafts. And I will not show the first, or second draft to anyone. I will not ask everyone and their uncle their opinion. And I will not fret about how everyone else "does" it. I will know upfront that I'll need a little break once the first draft is complete. Once, I've fixed the first draft and I'm ready, I'll show my work to a critique partner or group, and consider contests or whatever. If I get stuck, I'll brainstorm with others but I'll cut back on just brainstorming to brainstorm cuz I don't know what the hell I'm doing. I think some of that stuff is procrastination, pure and simple.
Second, I have one hell of a time sticking to a daily writing schedule but it MUST be done.
Third, it drives me nuts, nuts, nuts that it takes me several drafts to layer in everything--setting, character nuances-- I want to layer in. But heck, that's the way it's done. I have to let go of envy, perfectionism, self criticism and learn to trust myself.
Fourth, it drives me INSANE that I add in so much extra crapola that needs to be cut. However, I think some of that will be addressed if I write out 50-100 pages of the 5W's upfront and really get to know the characters and what's going on.
Fifth, time--- time, time, time. I'd like nothing more than to be able to lock myself away for a month and write like a madwoman, but I have a life. I can't truly allow my obsession to take over (and I do get rather obsessed.) Hence the need for sticking to a practical, purposeful daily writing schedule.
Last, talent -- woe, woe, woe. I want to be one of those prodigies who writes with ease and magical brilliance. Such is not my situation. I'm one of those writers that has to bleed for every damn scene. And I bleed sloooooowly. ARGH!
Since I've whined a heck of a lot lately, I'll leave it at that.
Cheers and happy writing,
Alyson
p.s. Samantha went to a workshop last week and someone there said the first draft is like vomit. Oddly, that totally cheered me up. I'm not the only one avoiding the puke lying in the drawer:)
Six Whines
This week’s blog is my top Six Whines.
Yep. We are going to roll around in self-pity and cry all day. (Hopefully, we’ll get this out of our systems.)
Macy’s whines:
1. There is so NOT enough time. I have a full time bill-paying job that if I quit would send us into foreclosure, so that’s not happening anytime soon. And, really, I love my job. I just like writing more. But my job is one of those no overtime pay, but lots of overtime hours sort of jobs. Frankly, it isn’t being busy that keeps me from writing. My best work is frequently accomplished under the gun of severe time constraints. My big deal is being tired. I’m a go to bed at midnight and get up at 5 kind of girl, but I’m learning that the muses are just a tad more creative when I give them a bit more rest. (Girls, I’m working on it.)
2. I wish I’d known about character arcs, hero’s journeys, and GMC’s before I started. Then, I might not be going back to them now and trying to fix my uneducated ramblings. That learning curve thing is huge. Whine #2 = I’m now paying for my early lack of knowledge.
3. Everyone is supportive of my writing – as long as there isn’t anything more important going on. And what could be more important than my writing? According to my dh, dd, and ds, everything.
4. The MIDDLE. The f&%#*ng middle!!
5. FINISHING. F&%#*ng finishing!!!!!!
6. I’ve only just begun to realize there are about a billion different ways to do this writing thing. What works for one person doesn’t work for someone else. I’ve tried just about everything that works for someone else. I’m just now getting around to trying what works for me. There has to be an easier way to learn this stuff, right?
Okay – I realize that wasn’t super whiney. However, I just got through a hellacious week. I spent more than half the day in my PJ’s. I rested and cleaned up and relaxed and watched a whole movie on TV. I’m actually not feeling too whiney right now. (Maybe at 5 am when I get up to write, I’ll add to this. I’m pretty whiney at 5 am.)
Macy
Yep. We are going to roll around in self-pity and cry all day. (Hopefully, we’ll get this out of our systems.)
Macy’s whines:
1. There is so NOT enough time. I have a full time bill-paying job that if I quit would send us into foreclosure, so that’s not happening anytime soon. And, really, I love my job. I just like writing more. But my job is one of those no overtime pay, but lots of overtime hours sort of jobs. Frankly, it isn’t being busy that keeps me from writing. My best work is frequently accomplished under the gun of severe time constraints. My big deal is being tired. I’m a go to bed at midnight and get up at 5 kind of girl, but I’m learning that the muses are just a tad more creative when I give them a bit more rest. (Girls, I’m working on it.)
2. I wish I’d known about character arcs, hero’s journeys, and GMC’s before I started. Then, I might not be going back to them now and trying to fix my uneducated ramblings. That learning curve thing is huge. Whine #2 = I’m now paying for my early lack of knowledge.
3. Everyone is supportive of my writing – as long as there isn’t anything more important going on. And what could be more important than my writing? According to my dh, dd, and ds, everything.
4. The MIDDLE. The f&%#*ng middle!!
5. FINISHING. F&%#*ng finishing!!!!!!
6. I’ve only just begun to realize there are about a billion different ways to do this writing thing. What works for one person doesn’t work for someone else. I’ve tried just about everything that works for someone else. I’m just now getting around to trying what works for me. There has to be an easier way to learn this stuff, right?
Okay – I realize that wasn’t super whiney. However, I just got through a hellacious week. I spent more than half the day in my PJ’s. I rested and cleaned up and relaxed and watched a whole movie on TV. I’m actually not feeling too whiney right now. (Maybe at 5 am when I get up to write, I’ll add to this. I’m pretty whiney at 5 am.)
Macy
Friday, May 4, 2007
Low down, Honky Tonk, Second Draft Blues
So here's the deal. In April of 2006 I decided to take a romance writing class. I wanted to write a novel. A chick lit novel. A few months later, chick lit was pronounced dead on arrival. I kept the idea, and turned my novel into a quirky romantic comedy. I'm using the term "novel" loosely here since all I had was about 8k and one hell of a learning curve to still climb. I decided I needed a push to help me move the novel along so I signed for an Advanced Novel Writing Workshop. By then, AoTP was gathering some momentum, and a 10k club was formed. The 10k club didn't work for me, but I finished my workshop and had 50K by mid-January. Most of it stunk, but I had 50k. By March I had 60-65K. Of course that included lots of throwaway scenes, iffy gray and black moments, poor transitions and so on. Whatever. I just wanted a completed draft. To push me through to the end, I signed up for another workshop, a local one, and swore on my life I'd have my first draft done by my birthday on May 21st. I finished three weeks early-- pat on the back-- and prepped for a contest and blah, blah, blah. If you've been reading along, you've "heard" me rant, rave, whine. I should be happy now, but . . .
I hate my first draft.
I think someone snuck into my files and added unnecessary words and scenes, and deleted all the moments of brilliance I was sure I had put in there. Whoever you are, I'm mad as hell and I'm going to get you.
Just kidding.
I think I need to stick it in a drawer and not think about it for a month and then start rewriting. I had hoped to dive right in and have it shiny, brilliant and stellar before the RWA conference but that simply may not happen. After I read the whole stinky thing, I wanted to put it in the shredder, pull all my hair out and beat up everyone in my workshop group. Seriously.
Have I mentioned that I can be a bit of a drama queen sometimes? If not, note that quietly, and take a bit of advice--don't call me a drama queen when I'm actually being one if you're within kicking distance. My roundhouse kick is much better than my first draft.
Anyway, everyone at AoTP is now kicking into gear to finish up their first drafts so I have no one to howl at the moon with. I have a couple new crit partners with finished drafts but they're weirdly serene people. I don't trust weirdly serene people. We're writers--aren't we supposed to be a little high strung?
Thankfully, Macy sent us a link to Tess Gerritsen's blog on second drafts a few weeks ago. It soothes my soul a bit. I'm not from outer space, and I'm not necessarily the world's worst writer. And heck, a lot of people don't complete a first draft of their novel in a year, right?
Anyway, enough whining--you'll hear plenty more on Sunday when we blog on the things that frustrate the hell out of us about our own writing, writing processes, writing situations. I'll give you three wild guesses on who came up with that topic. For now, I have to skip over to my Alyson blog and gossip about all the shite that's been going down in blog world this week. Yowza! Kathryn Falk's message to Karen Scott (or was it Kathryn?), Tony C at Smart Bitches(also see More Tony or is Tony), the debate over at Romancing the blog about whether authors should review/critique one another's books. Fun stuff if you're into drama like, uh, someone I know.
Actually, the gossip blog may not go up till tomorrow. I need a drink to go with my low down , honky tonk, second draft blues (which are not to be confused with my "so many crits, so few brain cells with which to sort it all out" blues I belted out a couple weeks ago--ha!)
Goal after Sunday-- no whining for a couple weeks:)
Cheers and happy writing,
Alyson
P.S I just found this so I'm borrowing it from Billy Mernit at Living the Romantic Comedy. Too funny, and it TOTALLY applies in its own way although I'm not exactly on my final draft. I'll have to come up with my own version for my second draft blues--
I hate my first draft.
I think someone snuck into my files and added unnecessary words and scenes, and deleted all the moments of brilliance I was sure I had put in there. Whoever you are, I'm mad as hell and I'm going to get you.
Just kidding.
I think I need to stick it in a drawer and not think about it for a month and then start rewriting. I had hoped to dive right in and have it shiny, brilliant and stellar before the RWA conference but that simply may not happen. After I read the whole stinky thing, I wanted to put it in the shredder, pull all my hair out and beat up everyone in my workshop group. Seriously.
Have I mentioned that I can be a bit of a drama queen sometimes? If not, note that quietly, and take a bit of advice--don't call me a drama queen when I'm actually being one if you're within kicking distance. My roundhouse kick is much better than my first draft.
Anyway, everyone at AoTP is now kicking into gear to finish up their first drafts so I have no one to howl at the moon with. I have a couple new crit partners with finished drafts but they're weirdly serene people. I don't trust weirdly serene people. We're writers--aren't we supposed to be a little high strung?
Thankfully, Macy sent us a link to Tess Gerritsen's blog on second drafts a few weeks ago. It soothes my soul a bit. I'm not from outer space, and I'm not necessarily the world's worst writer. And heck, a lot of people don't complete a first draft of their novel in a year, right?
Anyway, enough whining--you'll hear plenty more on Sunday when we blog on the things that frustrate the hell out of us about our own writing, writing processes, writing situations. I'll give you three wild guesses on who came up with that topic. For now, I have to skip over to my Alyson blog and gossip about all the shite that's been going down in blog world this week. Yowza! Kathryn Falk's message to Karen Scott (or was it Kathryn?), Tony C at Smart Bitches(also see More Tony or is Tony), the debate over at Romancing the blog about whether authors should review/critique one another's books. Fun stuff if you're into drama like, uh, someone I know.
Actually, the gossip blog may not go up till tomorrow. I need a drink to go with my low down , honky tonk, second draft blues (which are not to be confused with my "so many crits, so few brain cells with which to sort it all out" blues I belted out a couple weeks ago--ha!)
Goal after Sunday-- no whining for a couple weeks:)
Cheers and happy writing,
Alyson
P.S I just found this so I'm borrowing it from Billy Mernit at Living the Romantic Comedy. Too funny, and it TOTALLY applies in its own way although I'm not exactly on my final draft. I'll have to come up with my own version for my second draft blues--
THE 5 STAGES OF FINAL DRAFT WRITING
1. Denial
It's really in very good shape. Sure, I've got a ton of notes, but it's nothing I can't handle...
2. Anger
Who is the cretinous asshole who wrote this crap?
3. Bargaining
If I can just have [enough methamphetamine, a roomful of writers a helluva lot smarter than I am, a time machine, etc.], I promise I'll have this in good enough rough shape for the draft after the final draft!
4. Depression
I am SO fucked.
5. Acceptance
As awful as this one is, the next one can only be better. And I still (sort of) have my health.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Butt-kicking
Tom Hanks said, “You learn more from getting your butt kicked than from getting it kissed.”
Yes. I think you do.
But, isn’t it nice to get that kiss every once in awhile?
I think in writing, you get your butt kicked a lot.
First of all, it is a very solitary experience. Others frequently don’t understand why we do it. It’s a compulsion that few feel. So much butt kicking occurs before you ever get a sale or even an accolade that you simply wonder sometimes if it’s all going to pay off in the end. However, most writers – real writers – are visionary. Despite disappointments that their families don’t comprehend, despite sacrifices that make little sense to loved ones, despite losing too much sleep and drinking too much caffeine, writers who make it possess a fortitude that would make them successful in almost any endeavor.
And really, when the butt kicking commences, what is the most valuable skill you have? Fortitude. That ability to will shaky arms to push you back into a sitting position so that you can reach the computer keyboard and continue.
The second big butt-kicker is criticism. Writers should expect to get a lot before they ever get a pat on the back. It’s like having a loaf of dry bread and only one spoonful of peanut butter. You got to eat a lot of the old yucky stuff before you find a slice with taste. But that tiny, smooth, creamy reward laced somewhere in the middle is enough to push you forward.
The first time I ever submitted anything for others to read, I had a loaf of the nasty stuff shoved down my throat with no water at all. It happened long before AotP was even a thought -- long before I met the community of friends I have here who criticize but also lump in the peanut butter, too. (And a few morsels of chocolate every now and then, as well! What a great group!)
Anyway, I posted fifteen pages of what I really considered to be among the best romance writing anywhere (ah, the naiveté of a beginner), and I received just about that many pages back in my first crit – all problems that I needed to correct. The last sentence of my crit – my molecule of peanut butter – said, “The hero is kind of yummy. He shows some potential.”
I’ve since shelved – in a deep dark corner – that unfinished story. But the book of whoop-ass in that crit was probably the best thing that could have happened. What if some poor, sweet soul had kissed that scene with ‘it was wonderful’, when in reality it sucked. Well, I’d still be that writer “with some potential”.
Sometimes, I kick my own butt. When life is very busy and taxing – a normal day for me – I kick my own butt with guilt that time finds itself on the bottom of the hourglass and I have yet no words on the page. I look at my day and say, “Where could I get five extra minutes to write?” And really, even with only five minutes a day, won’t the book get finished someday? Of course. But, I’m a now, now, now person, so I keep kicking my butt. It’s good for me.
Pen to paper. Just write. Even crap. I can fix crap. I can’t fix a blank page.
I’ll start where I am. I’ll enjoy the journey. Yeah – because black eyes, bruised ribs, and sore muscles are preferred over kisses. Not really. But I learn more from them. I learn when to duck, when to strike, when I’m most prolific, when my idea is one to run with rather than ignore, when I have something kissable.
Hit me. Kiss me. Just tell me to write.
Macy.
Yes. I think you do.
But, isn’t it nice to get that kiss every once in awhile?
I think in writing, you get your butt kicked a lot.
First of all, it is a very solitary experience. Others frequently don’t understand why we do it. It’s a compulsion that few feel. So much butt kicking occurs before you ever get a sale or even an accolade that you simply wonder sometimes if it’s all going to pay off in the end. However, most writers – real writers – are visionary. Despite disappointments that their families don’t comprehend, despite sacrifices that make little sense to loved ones, despite losing too much sleep and drinking too much caffeine, writers who make it possess a fortitude that would make them successful in almost any endeavor.
And really, when the butt kicking commences, what is the most valuable skill you have? Fortitude. That ability to will shaky arms to push you back into a sitting position so that you can reach the computer keyboard and continue.
The second big butt-kicker is criticism. Writers should expect to get a lot before they ever get a pat on the back. It’s like having a loaf of dry bread and only one spoonful of peanut butter. You got to eat a lot of the old yucky stuff before you find a slice with taste. But that tiny, smooth, creamy reward laced somewhere in the middle is enough to push you forward.
The first time I ever submitted anything for others to read, I had a loaf of the nasty stuff shoved down my throat with no water at all. It happened long before AotP was even a thought -- long before I met the community of friends I have here who criticize but also lump in the peanut butter, too. (And a few morsels of chocolate every now and then, as well! What a great group!)
Anyway, I posted fifteen pages of what I really considered to be among the best romance writing anywhere (ah, the naiveté of a beginner), and I received just about that many pages back in my first crit – all problems that I needed to correct. The last sentence of my crit – my molecule of peanut butter – said, “The hero is kind of yummy. He shows some potential.”
I’ve since shelved – in a deep dark corner – that unfinished story. But the book of whoop-ass in that crit was probably the best thing that could have happened. What if some poor, sweet soul had kissed that scene with ‘it was wonderful’, when in reality it sucked. Well, I’d still be that writer “with some potential”.
Sometimes, I kick my own butt. When life is very busy and taxing – a normal day for me – I kick my own butt with guilt that time finds itself on the bottom of the hourglass and I have yet no words on the page. I look at my day and say, “Where could I get five extra minutes to write?” And really, even with only five minutes a day, won’t the book get finished someday? Of course. But, I’m a now, now, now person, so I keep kicking my butt. It’s good for me.
Pen to paper. Just write. Even crap. I can fix crap. I can’t fix a blank page.
I’ll start where I am. I’ll enjoy the journey. Yeah – because black eyes, bruised ribs, and sore muscles are preferred over kisses. Not really. But I learn more from them. I learn when to duck, when to strike, when I’m most prolific, when my idea is one to run with rather than ignore, when I have something kissable.
Hit me. Kiss me. Just tell me to write.
Macy.
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