2013 flew by way too quickly and life is quite different as we start 2014. When I set my 2013 Goals, I knew there were a great many demands on my time as I was beginning my new position at work, with FGS, and the conference, along with being a new homeowner, yet I wanted to maintain my friendships and make time for myself.
My goals for 2013 were :
1. Dedicate 10 minutes a
day to a workout or stretching routine
2. Dedicate an hour a day to myself
3. Establish a routine to handle my
condition
4. Spend more time with Erin's children
Sorry to say, I did not accomplish any of them. Workouts are infrequent, time to myself seems impossible, and I spent one day with Erin's children. And at my recent six month evaluation, the doc told me that we needed to formulate a new plan for handling my condition since establishing, much less maintaining, a routine is a near impossibility for me.
Though I did not accomplish any of these 2013 goals, there are many aspects of my life that have made me proud.
1. Managed not to totally screw up any of my new responsibilities.
2. Have been given further responsibilities since I've proven myself more than capable.
3. Maintained those friendships that mean the most and learned to shrug off those who were negative influences in my life.
4. Gained a better understanding of my relationships and where they fit in my life.
5. Lost myself then found myself again.
6. Began a journey of acceptance of myself: pre-2000, past, present, and future.
7. Learning to balance everything.
I've decided not to set goals for 2014 because this year is looking as busy as last year and I'm sure I'll stumble along the way but I'm also sure that with the help of my loved ones and friends, I'll make it through.
Showing posts with label dream. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dream. Show all posts
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Busy Gal
2012 has been a busy year so far. I feel like I've barely had time to process everything, yet it's been almost seven months already. Time to evaluate my 2012 Goals and see how far I've come this year.
1. Send my manuscript to agents
You hear those birds chirping in the background. They are still waiting. After receiving such promising feedback from my reviewers, cleaning up my manuscript so that I felt comfortable sending it to agents was the top goal, yet I haven't touched that story since presenting it to the reviewers. How have I let this slip away? I need to grant myself time to sit and read over this material. November is looking promising as a time to work on the manuscript.
2. Step up my career plans
My career has been full-throttle. I've given a speaking engagement at minimum once a month and I think I maxed out at five in one month. These have included two local libraries' staff development days, Indiana Library Federation, Indiana Genealogical Society, Southern California Genealogical Jamboree, and contracting with Jasper County Public Library to give a half-day presentation plus my regular ACPL lectures. I've been working actively on the 2013 FGS Conference Programming Committee and wrote a review for Forum magazine on the side. I'm wiping my brow after that recitation.
3. Join UDC and DAR
My UDC application is completed and has been verified by the local Regent who is also DAR. I have to admit to a little exhaustion after researching Laban. He was a fascinating individual, but it was an amazing amount of work, especially writing up an explanation proving the connections. Laban is the brother of my direct ancestor, so I submitted information on their father to prove kinship. My Regent shared with me if I could prove the father to his father then I would have the application material for the DAR since she found this line has been accepted into the DAR already. I wasn't aware that my maternal line had Rev. patriots. I've always been aware of two of my paternal relations, but since I have the majority of this application completed, I might as well prove the final generational gap.
4. Complex research
I found some interesting information while research hubby's Polish family, but I require help from a NJ researcher. Due to time and money, I've set this aside for the moment, but plan to return to it soon. I figure my research for the UDC application on Laban qualifies as complex research.
5. House decision
Ha-ha! This goal is done! We purchased a house and have spent the past six weeks painting, repairing and cleaning. In the next two weeks, we'll move into our new home, ending the housing dilemma.
Whew! I'm ready for a nap now. Wake me when it's 2013.
1. Send my manuscript to agents
You hear those birds chirping in the background. They are still waiting. After receiving such promising feedback from my reviewers, cleaning up my manuscript so that I felt comfortable sending it to agents was the top goal, yet I haven't touched that story since presenting it to the reviewers. How have I let this slip away? I need to grant myself time to sit and read over this material. November is looking promising as a time to work on the manuscript.
2. Step up my career plans
My career has been full-throttle. I've given a speaking engagement at minimum once a month and I think I maxed out at five in one month. These have included two local libraries' staff development days, Indiana Library Federation, Indiana Genealogical Society, Southern California Genealogical Jamboree, and contracting with Jasper County Public Library to give a half-day presentation plus my regular ACPL lectures. I've been working actively on the 2013 FGS Conference Programming Committee and wrote a review for Forum magazine on the side. I'm wiping my brow after that recitation.
3. Join UDC and DAR
My UDC application is completed and has been verified by the local Regent who is also DAR. I have to admit to a little exhaustion after researching Laban. He was a fascinating individual, but it was an amazing amount of work, especially writing up an explanation proving the connections. Laban is the brother of my direct ancestor, so I submitted information on their father to prove kinship. My Regent shared with me if I could prove the father to his father then I would have the application material for the DAR since she found this line has been accepted into the DAR already. I wasn't aware that my maternal line had Rev. patriots. I've always been aware of two of my paternal relations, but since I have the majority of this application completed, I might as well prove the final generational gap.
4. Complex research
I found some interesting information while research hubby's Polish family, but I require help from a NJ researcher. Due to time and money, I've set this aside for the moment, but plan to return to it soon. I figure my research for the UDC application on Laban qualifies as complex research.
5. House decision
Ha-ha! This goal is done! We purchased a house and have spent the past six weeks painting, repairing and cleaning. In the next two weeks, we'll move into our new home, ending the housing dilemma.
Whew! I'm ready for a nap now. Wake me when it's 2013.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Balance
In the past six months my life has become very focused and driven towards one goal though many options remain available. I have chosen to ignore everything except my research, which has led to me being out of balance. I love socializing with my friends, knitting, and writing, yet these aspects of my life are limited or non-existent at this time. I have been very focused on my career lately and with that in mind, my research projects have consumed my minimal free time. Don't get me wrong, I'm enjoying my research and find it fascinating. But I feel compelled to work on it because with each reveal, I discover a new example I can use in a lecture or someday write about the discovery process.
Every evening and weekend, I promise myself that I will spend a bit of time on my writing or just relax and watch t.v. for the night, but it never happens. I'm still coordinating the writing group, but have not even touched my own writing in months. I had written down a goal of two hours of writing during my three day weekend. It never came to fruition though I did find several documents that will help my UDC application instead.
I have been desperately seeking a balance in my life so I can enjoy all my interests, but can't seem to shake this compulsion. This weekend was filled with several shocks and I rolled with the punches until last night. Suddenly, all the emotions I had been tamping down, emotions that I vent in my writing, came to the surface because they've had no outlet. Maybe this will be my motivator to balance things out, to learn how to juggle all the interests rather than giving myself over to one. Hopefully, I'll find my muse again and discover myself along the way because there is more than one aspiration for my life.
Every evening and weekend, I promise myself that I will spend a bit of time on my writing or just relax and watch t.v. for the night, but it never happens. I'm still coordinating the writing group, but have not even touched my own writing in months. I had written down a goal of two hours of writing during my three day weekend. It never came to fruition though I did find several documents that will help my UDC application instead.
I have been desperately seeking a balance in my life so I can enjoy all my interests, but can't seem to shake this compulsion. This weekend was filled with several shocks and I rolled with the punches until last night. Suddenly, all the emotions I had been tamping down, emotions that I vent in my writing, came to the surface because they've had no outlet. Maybe this will be my motivator to balance things out, to learn how to juggle all the interests rather than giving myself over to one. Hopefully, I'll find my muse again and discover myself along the way because there is more than one aspiration for my life.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Trapped Sensation
Hubby and I had the "talk" again this weekend. It has been four years since hubby moved to Muncie in what we thought was a temporary situation, which has become a permanent situation. Hubby flounders at what he can do to improve our situation, but has a sinking feeling of being trapped, which permeates into how he handles all of our critical decisions.
We moved up north for my career. It was a decision we made together and one we both don't regret, except for the fact that we have to live apart. Hubby likes his job and feels secure in it, which many others in today's economy can't say the same, so it is hard for him to imagine leaving his position. He doesn't live and breathe his job the way I do. It's a way for him to feel secure, have funds, and he likes what he does, but if something similar came along, he would be okay with trading it out, whereas my job is not transferable. Hubby has applied for jobs more local, but has had no luck. I have offered to move down there and do the commute, but hubby has an irrational fear of me doing that drive day in and day out, which is the reason he lives down there during the week. So the overall living situation is beginning to weigh on him.
I was curious if anyone knew of work that can be done at-home. I don't mean the type of work they advertise for on tv, but rather things like database work or other types of jobs that a reference librarian is familiar with. I'm hoping to provide him options so he doesn't have this trapped sensation.
We moved up north for my career. It was a decision we made together and one we both don't regret, except for the fact that we have to live apart. Hubby likes his job and feels secure in it, which many others in today's economy can't say the same, so it is hard for him to imagine leaving his position. He doesn't live and breathe his job the way I do. It's a way for him to feel secure, have funds, and he likes what he does, but if something similar came along, he would be okay with trading it out, whereas my job is not transferable. Hubby has applied for jobs more local, but has had no luck. I have offered to move down there and do the commute, but hubby has an irrational fear of me doing that drive day in and day out, which is the reason he lives down there during the week. So the overall living situation is beginning to weigh on him.
I was curious if anyone knew of work that can be done at-home. I don't mean the type of work they advertise for on tv, but rather things like database work or other types of jobs that a reference librarian is familiar with. I'm hoping to provide him options so he doesn't have this trapped sensation.
Monday, January 2, 2012
2012 Goals
I hope everyone is having a great New Year! Every year, I shrug off resolutions, choosing to map out goals for the coming year instead. In 2011, I chose not to have goals, since my 2010 goals went up in flames thanks to my health issues, but I am back to thinking ahead for this year. Based on demands on my time and agreements I've made, my goals are of a singular nature this year, yet are raising the bar on what I expect of myself.
1. Send my manuscript to agents.
The majority of publishing houses will not look at your work without an agent bringing it to their attention. The field is changing drastically, so I may try a different route, but as of today, I plan to clean up my manuscript, have my reviewers look it over again, and send it off to see what the publishing world has to say.
2. Step up my career plans.
There are several opportunities I plan to take advantage of this year involving my professional career. Several of them have already come to fruition; I have a contract to speak at a conference in FL in 2013, I am currently negotiating to speak at a nationally recognized regional conference this year (if we agree to the terms, I'll let you know), I am representing Indiana for a committee for a national conference, and there are some other things in the air, which I will be forthcoming about as soon as I can publicly discuss them.
3. Join UDC and DAR
Some of my contracted talks require more advanced research methodologies and I would prefer to discuss examples from my own research. Applying to both of these organizations will require me completing my own in-depth research, which let's be honest, I have barely touched my personal research in years.
4. Complex research
Hubby's family research is a bit chaotic, what with the fact hubby denies having family with the exception of his brother, there are unofficial adoptions, and both sides consist of twentieth century immigrants from Eastern Europe. But our nephew can obtain a scholarship to a private college in Florida if we can prove his Polish ancestry, so my brother-in-law asked if I could look into it. Completing this project will give me amazing examples for my presentations, plus help my nephew.
5. House decision
I'm almost afraid to place this on the list, since a few years ago my goal was to make a decision about having children, in which my body made the decision for me. Hubby and I have owned a home in Florida, hired a realtor when we moved to Indiana, decided against it, and now question if we should own a home again. We are so indecisive concerning this topic, so I hope to make a final decision this year and move forward.
Those are my goals for 2012. Care to share yours or comment on my insanity?
1. Send my manuscript to agents.
The majority of publishing houses will not look at your work without an agent bringing it to their attention. The field is changing drastically, so I may try a different route, but as of today, I plan to clean up my manuscript, have my reviewers look it over again, and send it off to see what the publishing world has to say.
2. Step up my career plans.
There are several opportunities I plan to take advantage of this year involving my professional career. Several of them have already come to fruition; I have a contract to speak at a conference in FL in 2013, I am currently negotiating to speak at a nationally recognized regional conference this year (if we agree to the terms, I'll let you know), I am representing Indiana for a committee for a national conference, and there are some other things in the air, which I will be forthcoming about as soon as I can publicly discuss them.
3. Join UDC and DAR
Some of my contracted talks require more advanced research methodologies and I would prefer to discuss examples from my own research. Applying to both of these organizations will require me completing my own in-depth research, which let's be honest, I have barely touched my personal research in years.
4. Complex research
Hubby's family research is a bit chaotic, what with the fact hubby denies having family with the exception of his brother, there are unofficial adoptions, and both sides consist of twentieth century immigrants from Eastern Europe. But our nephew can obtain a scholarship to a private college in Florida if we can prove his Polish ancestry, so my brother-in-law asked if I could look into it. Completing this project will give me amazing examples for my presentations, plus help my nephew.
5. House decision
I'm almost afraid to place this on the list, since a few years ago my goal was to make a decision about having children, in which my body made the decision for me. Hubby and I have owned a home in Florida, hired a realtor when we moved to Indiana, decided against it, and now question if we should own a home again. We are so indecisive concerning this topic, so I hope to make a final decision this year and move forward.
Those are my goals for 2012. Care to share yours or comment on my insanity?
Thursday, December 29, 2011
The Reviews are In
I received reviews of my latest manuscript this past month, but before I share, I have to thank my reviewers profusely. Not only did these gals take the time to read over my work, but they truly critiqued it like pros. I have notes written all over the print versions plus five pages of recommendations. They truly worked on these reviews, which I greatly appreciate.
The story I gave them to review was my experiment into a new subgenre, a paranormal romance where the characters come from other realms. Not only was it a new topic, but I wrote it in first person without plotting or outlining it. I created my character and setting notes as I wrote the story.
As I said there were pages of notes, so I'll only post a few comments.
- "Let me begin by saying, I'm excited. This story has tremendous possibilities and there were parts of it that had me riveted to what was going on. And I think with some 'cleaning' up you should send this one off ... You did a good job and I'm looking forward to seeing an entire series. I think you have created a good idea that just needs to have a few tweaks. This should be the one that you ship off."
These were amazing words from someone who maintains a popular book review site.
- "Your changing from one scene to the other was pretty smooth."
Loved hearing this since there are flashbacks and dream sequences throughout the story. It does not flow in a straight line.
"As I said before, the story really kept my interest and the pacing was very good. Just enough information was revealed to keep me going without telling the whole story at once."
I had worried about not revealing enough and holding back.
- "I wanted more of your other world ... and that means you created a fascinating place."
- "When do I get book two?"
Not only did I enjoy the positive commentary, but was pleased with their critiques and recommendations, which included a misunderstanding of the ending scene, which needs to be rewritten; more hints leading to the big reveal; more of the other realm; and flesh out the two secondary villains.
Then there were the discrepancies between my reviewers, who each read different types of subgenres. One reviewer said, "The intimate scenes were hot and well written," while another stated, "I think there may be too much sex, unless you are going to send to an Erotica publisher ..." I asked my reviewer who regularly reads paranormal for her opinion and she said it was the right amount of sex. Two of my reviewers thought I should tone down some fight scenes, but another thought they were required to show how volatile the other beings behaved.
Right now, I plan to set this story aside for a month and think on it. I plan to jump on some of these recommendations in February, but I need to think over the others. For January, I plan to start cleaning up the first half of my Nano 2010 project, which is book two of this story. I hope that by working on the next book and paying attention to the direction it is heading, I will know what to fix in book one.
So my many thanks and love to my reviewers for your support and guidance through this harrowing experience. I plan to make the necessary changes, ask for your reviews again, so I can send this story to several agencies and begin the next phase of this adventure.
The story I gave them to review was my experiment into a new subgenre, a paranormal romance where the characters come from other realms. Not only was it a new topic, but I wrote it in first person without plotting or outlining it. I created my character and setting notes as I wrote the story.
As I said there were pages of notes, so I'll only post a few comments.
- "Let me begin by saying, I'm excited. This story has tremendous possibilities and there were parts of it that had me riveted to what was going on. And I think with some 'cleaning' up you should send this one off ... You did a good job and I'm looking forward to seeing an entire series. I think you have created a good idea that just needs to have a few tweaks. This should be the one that you ship off."
These were amazing words from someone who maintains a popular book review site.
- "Your changing from one scene to the other was pretty smooth."
Loved hearing this since there are flashbacks and dream sequences throughout the story. It does not flow in a straight line.
"As I said before, the story really kept my interest and the pacing was very good. Just enough information was revealed to keep me going without telling the whole story at once."
I had worried about not revealing enough and holding back.
- "I wanted more of your other world ... and that means you created a fascinating place."
- "When do I get book two?"
Not only did I enjoy the positive commentary, but was pleased with their critiques and recommendations, which included a misunderstanding of the ending scene, which needs to be rewritten; more hints leading to the big reveal; more of the other realm; and flesh out the two secondary villains.
Then there were the discrepancies between my reviewers, who each read different types of subgenres. One reviewer said, "The intimate scenes were hot and well written," while another stated, "I think there may be too much sex, unless you are going to send to an Erotica publisher ..." I asked my reviewer who regularly reads paranormal for her opinion and she said it was the right amount of sex. Two of my reviewers thought I should tone down some fight scenes, but another thought they were required to show how volatile the other beings behaved.
Right now, I plan to set this story aside for a month and think on it. I plan to jump on some of these recommendations in February, but I need to think over the others. For January, I plan to start cleaning up the first half of my Nano 2010 project, which is book two of this story. I hope that by working on the next book and paying attention to the direction it is heading, I will know what to fix in book one.
So my many thanks and love to my reviewers for your support and guidance through this harrowing experience. I plan to make the necessary changes, ask for your reviews again, so I can send this story to several agencies and begin the next phase of this adventure.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Why oh why did I think ...
I created this blog to write about my experiences trying to in trying to write a manuscript as well as the craziness that is my life. I have detoured from my mission in the last six months, but I am back, bound and determined to write again. Of course, every irrational fear about my dream of being a writer is floating in my head.
I finished my second manuscript a while back. Knowing it needed a lot of work, I allowed one person to read it, to get a feel for where I went wrong in my story. I knew I had messed up the story since there were sections I couldn't stand reading. My "reviewer" did not get back to me about the story and honestly, I was afraid to hear what she had to say, so I let time drift by, until I saw information on the latest RWA Conference.
The authors speaking at the conference are some of my favorite and it's within driving distance, hence no airfare, so I decided I have to attend. The dilemma is I have to make the conference expense worthwhile, so I need to be prepared to meet with an agent, which means I have to complete my manuscript.
Now that I had a goal in mind, I asked my "reviewer" for her feedback. My hero is too weak. Need to rewrite the hero and all of his conversations. There is no conflict. The emotional draw is lacking. These aren't her exact words, but you get the point (and I thank her for her honesty cause I needed to hear it).
So I am currently working on an almost complete rewrite keeping the central theme of my story, while making the hero more heroic and ramping up the conflict. The conflict is a real issue though. I am struggling my way through and hope to have something productive finished in the next few months. July will arrive soon enough and I need to be ready!
I finished my second manuscript a while back. Knowing it needed a lot of work, I allowed one person to read it, to get a feel for where I went wrong in my story. I knew I had messed up the story since there were sections I couldn't stand reading. My "reviewer" did not get back to me about the story and honestly, I was afraid to hear what she had to say, so I let time drift by, until I saw information on the latest RWA Conference.
The authors speaking at the conference are some of my favorite and it's within driving distance, hence no airfare, so I decided I have to attend. The dilemma is I have to make the conference expense worthwhile, so I need to be prepared to meet with an agent, which means I have to complete my manuscript.
Now that I had a goal in mind, I asked my "reviewer" for her feedback. My hero is too weak. Need to rewrite the hero and all of his conversations. There is no conflict. The emotional draw is lacking. These aren't her exact words, but you get the point (and I thank her for her honesty cause I needed to hear it).
So I am currently working on an almost complete rewrite keeping the central theme of my story, while making the hero more heroic and ramping up the conflict. The conflict is a real issue though. I am struggling my way through and hope to have something productive finished in the next few months. July will arrive soon enough and I need to be ready!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Where did the Year Go?
It's already October. 3 months and counting to the end of the year. September flew by and October is speeding fast away, so I fear its time to see if I will meet my goals by year's end.
1. Travel
I've been to Michigan, Florida, North Carolina, Illinois (2x), and Ohio (2x) this year. Hubby and I head for NYC in Nov, which I'm really excited about. So I've met this goal. Check it off my list.
2. Writing
Midway thru the year I had decided to alter this goal to include finishing my second story and having people review it. I should be proud that I finished my first story earlier in the year and braved people's reviews, yet I feel so close, yet so far with the altered goal. I finished the "story" but need to really clean it up before having people review it. Unfortunately, with everything going on, I haven't touched my writing in 2 months.
3. Workout
I'm not at my goal, but I'm close. I'm back to a routine workout, but I've decided to maintain the weight rather than try to lose the remaining 5. It seems impossible to lose them, plus they'll never leave the area I want gone (my hips). I'm not sure if my body will ever tone down, but I'll be happy with being healthy, working out routinely and without a goal.
4. Society Membership
I need to not think on this. Just give it a rest, since I seem incapable of getting the paperwork and completing my own research. Not enough time in the day.
Well, I'm happy with my completion of my goals and the ones I haven't completed, apparently, were never meant to be.
1. Travel
I've been to Michigan, Florida, North Carolina, Illinois (2x), and Ohio (2x) this year. Hubby and I head for NYC in Nov, which I'm really excited about. So I've met this goal. Check it off my list.
2. Writing
Midway thru the year I had decided to alter this goal to include finishing my second story and having people review it. I should be proud that I finished my first story earlier in the year and braved people's reviews, yet I feel so close, yet so far with the altered goal. I finished the "story" but need to really clean it up before having people review it. Unfortunately, with everything going on, I haven't touched my writing in 2 months.
3. Workout
I'm not at my goal, but I'm close. I'm back to a routine workout, but I've decided to maintain the weight rather than try to lose the remaining 5. It seems impossible to lose them, plus they'll never leave the area I want gone (my hips). I'm not sure if my body will ever tone down, but I'll be happy with being healthy, working out routinely and without a goal.
4. Society Membership
I need to not think on this. Just give it a rest, since I seem incapable of getting the paperwork and completing my own research. Not enough time in the day.
Well, I'm happy with my completion of my goals and the ones I haven't completed, apparently, were never meant to be.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
What Goals?
It's midway through the year hence time to review my goals. I'm a little scared to see where my priorities have shifted.
1. Travel
I've been to Michigan, Florida, North Carolina, Illinois, and Ohio this year, so I've met my 4 trips plus one goal. Also Michelle and I will visit Chicago again this fall along with the hubby and I continuing our hiking expeditions, so I will exceed my plans.
2. Writing
Even with the injury I have finished my second story and am currently editing and cleaning it up. I've had 4 people review my first work and have now shut it away for the time being while keeping their critiques in mind while looking over my current work. I want to alter this goal to incorporate finalizing the second story and having people review it before the end of the year.
3. Workout
What workout? With the wrist and elbow problems and resulting stomach issues thanks to the pain medicine, I had stopped working out and met my all-time "Indiana" weight, not to be confused with the all-time top weight. I have started another heavy workout routine this week, plus hubby and I have been hiking again, so maybe I can get back into the groove.
4. Society Membership
Once again, I have dropped the ball, but not intentionally. I really was making an effort, but certain (clearing my throat) family members have not sent me copies of specific documents.
Curious how it will end.
1. Travel
I've been to Michigan, Florida, North Carolina, Illinois, and Ohio this year, so I've met my 4 trips plus one goal. Also Michelle and I will visit Chicago again this fall along with the hubby and I continuing our hiking expeditions, so I will exceed my plans.
2. Writing
Even with the injury I have finished my second story and am currently editing and cleaning it up. I've had 4 people review my first work and have now shut it away for the time being while keeping their critiques in mind while looking over my current work. I want to alter this goal to incorporate finalizing the second story and having people review it before the end of the year.
3. Workout
What workout? With the wrist and elbow problems and resulting stomach issues thanks to the pain medicine, I had stopped working out and met my all-time "Indiana" weight, not to be confused with the all-time top weight. I have started another heavy workout routine this week, plus hubby and I have been hiking again, so maybe I can get back into the groove.
4. Society Membership
Once again, I have dropped the ball, but not intentionally. I really was making an effort, but certain (clearing my throat) family members have not sent me copies of specific documents.
Curious how it will end.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
More Writing Reviews
I have received two more reviews on my writing and thought I would share. I have to qualify by saying, yes, I know I shouldn't write historicals. I've learned my lesson. Though I research and research and research, apparently, I need more research on the subject. I had the same thought about midway through the book, but I had to continue on.
I find it humorous that both individuals wanted to know if I would still be their friend after reading their reviews and if I would allow them to read my current work. I have to thank the four individuals who were kind enough to read through 200+ pages of my writing. I truly appreciate your critiques and thoughts and have taken them to heart in the aspect that I'll implement the ideas in my current work.
Here are some of the comments:
- Plot was good. Kept me interested.
- More description
- Staccato (Steve says this about my articles as well)
- Pretty good. Kept me reading
- Twilight Zone Town of Terror (not where I was going)
- Can't determine the hero's condition
- Creative bone was good
- Love scenes were great!
- One scene in Chapter 12 an example of some good writing. (Yeaaaa)
- Short sentences made into one dynamic sentence.
- More dialog. The dialog you had was really good, I wanted more.
- Show me, don't tell!
I've had other people offer to critique my work and I will call on you in the future, I promise. At the moment, I think I'm going to set the historical aside and focus on my current project, especially since I'm nearing the end of it. I feel I have a better understanding of the current work. Once again thanks to all the people who have offered to help.
I find it humorous that both individuals wanted to know if I would still be their friend after reading their reviews and if I would allow them to read my current work. I have to thank the four individuals who were kind enough to read through 200+ pages of my writing. I truly appreciate your critiques and thoughts and have taken them to heart in the aspect that I'll implement the ideas in my current work.
Here are some of the comments:
- Plot was good. Kept me interested.
- More description
- Staccato (Steve says this about my articles as well)
- Pretty good. Kept me reading
- Twilight Zone Town of Terror (not where I was going)
- Can't determine the hero's condition
- Creative bone was good
- Love scenes were great!
- One scene in Chapter 12 an example of some good writing. (Yeaaaa)
- Short sentences made into one dynamic sentence.
- More dialog. The dialog you had was really good, I wanted more.
- Show me, don't tell!
I've had other people offer to critique my work and I will call on you in the future, I promise. At the moment, I think I'm going to set the historical aside and focus on my current project, especially since I'm nearing the end of it. I feel I have a better understanding of the current work. Once again thanks to all the people who have offered to help.
Monday, April 27, 2009
My Writing
I keep getting asked how my story is going. To tell you the truth...it's moving. I finished my first 80,000+ word manuscript this past February. In my mind, it was not a good story. I struggled through it. If I found it hard to write, obviously it would be difficult for others to read. Note to self: why did I think I could write a historical? I accepted it was my first try and allowed two people to read it. I truly appreciate their complete honesty. Here are some of their comments (I mixed them up, so no one could determine the reviewer):
- I like the story. It is engaging and I found myself thinking about it when I was not reading it, good sign!
- I liked the main characters and could see why they would appeal to each other.
- Work on your dialogue, it is almost too formal in some places and doesn't flow properly in others.
- Need more background.
- Too much tell, not show.
- The love scenes are well written
- Writing kept me interested - it wasn't a chore to read through and I looked forward to seeing what would happen next.
- Good twist.
- Need to clear up fantasy v. not fantasy.
- Major story concept doesn't work - the villain
In the meantime, I have been working on a contemporary story. Instead of mapping out the course, I have been free-styling. The current story wants to escape from me and I'm letting it. I figure it can be polished up later. Maybe this new one will be the one I feel more comfortable sharing with others and may submit as a query to agents.
- I like the story. It is engaging and I found myself thinking about it when I was not reading it, good sign!
- I liked the main characters and could see why they would appeal to each other.
- Work on your dialogue, it is almost too formal in some places and doesn't flow properly in others.
- Need more background.
- Too much tell, not show.
- The love scenes are well written
- Writing kept me interested - it wasn't a chore to read through and I looked forward to seeing what would happen next.
- Good twist.
- Need to clear up fantasy v. not fantasy.
- Major story concept doesn't work - the villain
In the meantime, I have been working on a contemporary story. Instead of mapping out the course, I have been free-styling. The current story wants to escape from me and I'm letting it. I figure it can be polished up later. Maybe this new one will be the one I feel more comfortable sharing with others and may submit as a query to agents.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Goals Review
My countdown to my Florida trip has begun. I will be in Florida in 2 weeks. I'm excited and a little disappointed. I planned this as a quick trip because of all the extenuating circumstances involved in the last vacation. With the downturn in the economy, it will most likely be my only trip to Florida this year. Unfortunately, with the time allotted, I will not be able to see everyone I want to visit. It's a bit frustrating, but there are not enough hours in the day. I feel compelled to state I'm sorry to those who I won't see.
This trip will be my second this year. I'm getting a little stingy with my sightseeing, so I'll claim my speaking engagement in Michigan as a trip. I had never been to Michigan before that visit with the exception of the airport. I had the joy of viewing Michigan through a blizzard and spent 8.5 hours on the road, so it was an interesting way to travel. As for my goal this year, I am halfway to completing my travel goal.
As for my work out routine, I am averaging 3 times a week. I am maintaining but not making strides in getting toned. Thanks to my giving up caffeinated sodas for Lent, I've lost a few extra pounds, so I'll claim mid-completion of this goal.
As for my writing goal, my second reviewer has my book in hand. I appreciated the first review and feel some relief, yet added pressure to clean up the manuscript. I have started to work on the second book. I'm trying to set aside time to complete a chapter per week. I am about to begin my 4th chapter. I had hoped to have all reviews and corrections concerning my first story and query letters ready to be mailed by April, so I'm far behind in this goal, yet proud that I've had the gumption to trust others to read my work.
I said I would not join any lineage societies this year, but "pressure" I have placed on myself to help others has inclined me to apply. As a southern lady living in the north and since my research focus is the south, I am working on my application for the UDC. It's slow going, but I hope to have it done in the next month or so. We'll see how well I do on completing it.
How are your New Year's Goals going?
This trip will be my second this year. I'm getting a little stingy with my sightseeing, so I'll claim my speaking engagement in Michigan as a trip. I had never been to Michigan before that visit with the exception of the airport. I had the joy of viewing Michigan through a blizzard and spent 8.5 hours on the road, so it was an interesting way to travel. As for my goal this year, I am halfway to completing my travel goal.
As for my work out routine, I am averaging 3 times a week. I am maintaining but not making strides in getting toned. Thanks to my giving up caffeinated sodas for Lent, I've lost a few extra pounds, so I'll claim mid-completion of this goal.
As for my writing goal, my second reviewer has my book in hand. I appreciated the first review and feel some relief, yet added pressure to clean up the manuscript. I have started to work on the second book. I'm trying to set aside time to complete a chapter per week. I am about to begin my 4th chapter. I had hoped to have all reviews and corrections concerning my first story and query letters ready to be mailed by April, so I'm far behind in this goal, yet proud that I've had the gumption to trust others to read my work.
I said I would not join any lineage societies this year, but "pressure" I have placed on myself to help others has inclined me to apply. As a southern lady living in the north and since my research focus is the south, I am working on my application for the UDC. It's slow going, but I hope to have it done in the next month or so. We'll see how well I do on completing it.
How are your New Year's Goals going?
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Irrational Fears
I met my deadline! I finished my big project by February 14. Now to determine what to do? Since most know and there is no point in hiding what I have been working on, I might as well say my big project has been writing a book. I have finished an 80,000+ word manuscript.
I have some wonderful people who have offered to read over my work and critique it. I hesitate to send my work because I fear facing these same people after they have seen my words. I imagine them being embarrassed after reading what is in my head or thinking, how the hell does she think she can be a writer. These scenarios scare me every time I decide okay I'll send the first few chapters to so-and-so.
My original idea had been to have a group critique my work and then send query letters to some agents this spring. Now I cringe at the idea. How could I think I could face people reading my work? Maybe I should just keep it to myself. What if I am as bad as I am beginning to imagine? I know other creative people have these same fears, so I'm not alone.
I have another story I have already begun to write. The new one covers content I am more comfortable writing. I keep telling myself the second one will be better, so I should set the first one aside and focus on the second. The naive part of me believes the second story is better and I will fell more comfortable having people read it. Or is this another delay tactic on my part? It's hard to tell.
So at this time, I am torn between wanting to share my work that I have struggled through for the past year or letting my fears control me. Now I sound like one of my characters. If you know me at all, you know fear dominates most of my decisions. I either fear something and plow ahead to show I can or I let the fear take over. In both of my stories, the main character is facing a great fear. Art imitating life in my case.
I have some wonderful people who have offered to read over my work and critique it. I hesitate to send my work because I fear facing these same people after they have seen my words. I imagine them being embarrassed after reading what is in my head or thinking, how the hell does she think she can be a writer. These scenarios scare me every time I decide okay I'll send the first few chapters to so-and-so.
My original idea had been to have a group critique my work and then send query letters to some agents this spring. Now I cringe at the idea. How could I think I could face people reading my work? Maybe I should just keep it to myself. What if I am as bad as I am beginning to imagine? I know other creative people have these same fears, so I'm not alone.
I have another story I have already begun to write. The new one covers content I am more comfortable writing. I keep telling myself the second one will be better, so I should set the first one aside and focus on the second. The naive part of me believes the second story is better and I will fell more comfortable having people read it. Or is this another delay tactic on my part? It's hard to tell.
So at this time, I am torn between wanting to share my work that I have struggled through for the past year or letting my fears control me. Now I sound like one of my characters. If you know me at all, you know fear dominates most of my decisions. I either fear something and plow ahead to show I can or I let the fear take over. In both of my stories, the main character is facing a great fear. Art imitating life in my case.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
2009 Goals
Now that a month has gone by, I wanted to see how I've been progressing on accomplishing my goals. I realized as well that I did not actually post my list this year. I think it's because I'm still reticent over some of my ideas, therefore will not be posting about them until I decide to act.
So here's where I stand so far.
1. Become more tone. Workout 3 times a week and build myself up to a routine everyday.
Results so far: 3 out of 5 possible weeks, I accomplished this goal. Now, I'm upping it to 4 times a week.
2. Finish my big project by Feb 14.
Results so far: I believe I will meet my deadline. My fear is I will be too scared to have people critique my work. I have a wonderful group of individuals who have offered, but I am still terrified. I keep psyching myself by saying everyone's first try is not on par. It's acceptable that my work will be substandard. Right?
3. Take at least 4 trips this year.
Results so far: I have booked a trip to Florida in April. It will be short and sweet, but enjoyable.
I guess I'm on my way to completing some of my goals. It's good to know I'm starting the new year off right. How about you?
So here's where I stand so far.
1. Become more tone. Workout 3 times a week and build myself up to a routine everyday.
Results so far: 3 out of 5 possible weeks, I accomplished this goal. Now, I'm upping it to 4 times a week.
2. Finish my big project by Feb 14.
Results so far: I believe I will meet my deadline. My fear is I will be too scared to have people critique my work. I have a wonderful group of individuals who have offered, but I am still terrified. I keep psyching myself by saying everyone's first try is not on par. It's acceptable that my work will be substandard. Right?
3. Take at least 4 trips this year.
Results so far: I have booked a trip to Florida in April. It will be short and sweet, but enjoyable.
I guess I'm on my way to completing some of my goals. It's good to know I'm starting the new year off right. How about you?
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Happy New Year
So in honor of the New Year, I think we should discuss resolutions. I'll be honest, I had four resolutions for 2008.
- I had the requisite lose 10 lbs and become more toned. Well, my weight fluctuated and I can be comfortable in the fact that I am the same weight as I was last year again. I started a strict workout regiment which I'm sure is good for me, but no tone.
- I planned to have my project completed by July. Well considering I am still working on it, I'd say it's a rollover resolution.
- My DAR application has been sidelined. I was completing hardcore research at the beginning of the year into April, but haven't touched it since.
- Finally I wanted to travel a bit. I went on 8 trips this year. This was the one resolution I am proud of completing. It was a lot of fun.
So for 2009, I have four resolutions again. Some of them are repeats of last years. Anyone willing to share their resolutions for the new year or discuss last years pitfalls.
- I had the requisite lose 10 lbs and become more toned. Well, my weight fluctuated and I can be comfortable in the fact that I am the same weight as I was last year again. I started a strict workout regiment which I'm sure is good for me, but no tone.
- I planned to have my project completed by July. Well considering I am still working on it, I'd say it's a rollover resolution.
- My DAR application has been sidelined. I was completing hardcore research at the beginning of the year into April, but haven't touched it since.
- Finally I wanted to travel a bit. I went on 8 trips this year. This was the one resolution I am proud of completing. It was a lot of fun.
So for 2009, I have four resolutions again. Some of them are repeats of last years. Anyone willing to share their resolutions for the new year or discuss last years pitfalls.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Big Project in the Works
I know I ranted over this last spring but once again, there is not enough time to finish everything. This is a little crazy considering I took a week off from work to dedicate all my energy to one goal. Yet I am only half way finished with my project. Let the grousing begin!
For those who don't know about my pet project...sorry, you can personally e-mail me and we'll discuss it. I'm still a little self-depreciating over it, yet it's extremely important to me. Think, big major dreams coming true. Well, at least I wish! If only I could finish it. I was not lazy this past week, I actually worked hours on my project to the exclusion of everything. One evening I realized it was five in the morning and I needed to get some sleep since I had been focused since three in the afternoon.
I really am closer to being finished. I'm in the final stages, so I should feel some relief. Right? Wrong, I feel a sense of urgency. I wish I could discover more time somewhere so I can complete my task, especially cause another one is looming on the horizon.
I know this makes no sense to those who don't know what I am talking about. Once again, my apologies. For those who know what the crazy lady is talking about...I have a favor...who is willing to be my critic? I've had people offer before, but now it's seriously game time in the coming month or so. Before you readily offer, I have a few thoughts 1) I request absolute confidentiality (no discussing it with other friends) and 2) remember my fragile ego but 3) give total honesty 4) knowing that we'll still be friends and have to see each other. Let me know who is willing to be my oh-so-suffering-friend. BTW, I have to thank Kay, Delia, Sonia, Michelle, and James for listening to all my grousing the past few weeks and supporting me in my endeavor and insanity.
For those who don't know about my pet project...sorry, you can personally e-mail me and we'll discuss it. I'm still a little self-depreciating over it, yet it's extremely important to me. Think, big major dreams coming true. Well, at least I wish! If only I could finish it. I was not lazy this past week, I actually worked hours on my project to the exclusion of everything. One evening I realized it was five in the morning and I needed to get some sleep since I had been focused since three in the afternoon.
I really am closer to being finished. I'm in the final stages, so I should feel some relief. Right? Wrong, I feel a sense of urgency. I wish I could discover more time somewhere so I can complete my task, especially cause another one is looming on the horizon.
I know this makes no sense to those who don't know what I am talking about. Once again, my apologies. For those who know what the crazy lady is talking about...I have a favor...who is willing to be my critic? I've had people offer before, but now it's seriously game time in the coming month or so. Before you readily offer, I have a few thoughts 1) I request absolute confidentiality (no discussing it with other friends) and 2) remember my fragile ego but 3) give total honesty 4) knowing that we'll still be friends and have to see each other. Let me know who is willing to be my oh-so-suffering-friend. BTW, I have to thank Kay, Delia, Sonia, Michelle, and James for listening to all my grousing the past few weeks and supporting me in my endeavor and insanity.
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