Writing on Monday--Edits!

First off, congrats to all the 2008 ACFW Genesis (unpublished manuscripts) and BOTY (published novels) winners! Great list of writers and books--wish I could have been there to see the awards handed out! I had the opportunity to be a judge this year for the Genesis contest, and I'm thrilled to see one of my favorite reads make the winner's list! Oh, and Katie Cushman, who's visited this blog many times, won 3rd place (Women's Fiction) for her debut novel, A Promise to Remember. Excellent job, my friend!

If you're a writer interested in knowing more about ACFW, click here.

On to Writing on Monday...These are the best of times, these are the worst of times. Lol...I'm told that sometime this week I'll receive the edits for my next book. Some writers abhor this part of the process, while others get simply giddy over it (hello, Colleen Coble :)) My own feelings are mixed. I love the results that edit notes--revisions suggested by an editor on a project--bring to the completed book. Oh, but the work of it all! Sometimes going back in means slaying your little darlings, and that can be tough. Of course, maybe I'll just hear..."Perfect! It's a wrap!" Ha...dreaming is good.

Anyway, as you've probably heard before, writing is really more of a RE-writing process. When you read a book that's smooth as buttah, you better believe that plenty of globs of fat were removed along the way.

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This has nothing to do with anything, except that it made me laugh. Check out the name of this Idahoan hog caller ;)

Writing on Friday--Publicity Photos

So earlier this week, I had some head shots taken for my new publisher. Let me just say, there's a reason I'm a writer. As a writer, I can work super hard--in my jammies. I don't need makeup or nice hair...or even to talk to anyone (except, of course, my characters. But that's a story for another day...) Basically, the in-studio process of smiling for the camera is way (way, way...) out of my comfort zone.

Anyway, out of more than 15 pictures, I could accept (sort of) 3. And out of those 3, I'm currently down to 1 (thanks Dad for the photoshopping! ;)

So over the weekend, I'll be doing it all again. Only this time, I'll be at my beloved beach, and I'll also be taking a kid or two to make me laugh. My pub. should be pleased to learn that they'll have a choice of more than, uh, one picture. I'll let you know how it all turns out...

On another note, Chocolate Beach made an appearance on author J. Timothy King's latest YouTube video. Cracked me up. Please take a minute to check it out here.

And have a beachy weekend my friends--wherever you are!

Happy trails

Just a quick post to say 'hey' to all my ACFW friends who are about to head off to Minnesota for the annual writer's conference. I opted not to go this year, partly because in just a few weeks I'll be leaving for New York (woo-hoo, can't wait!!!) Still, I'm thinking about you all, and praying for a successful event!

And the winner is...

Rebecca LuElla Miller, aka Becky Miller! Congrats! And thanks for playing everyone. Becky, I'll be getting Waiting for Daybreak out to you.

I'm peeking out my office window into beautiful California sunshine at the moment. The past few mornings have been thick with fog, so I welcome the light. Last Saturday, despite that fog, and some ripples on the water, Elementary Girl and I kayaked out in the Ventura Harbor. Both on the way out and back, we ran into a big ol' fat sea lion, and I couldn't help but think about Sweet Thing. If you read Truffles by the Sea, you know that lonely and drama-prone heroine Gaby befriends a sea lion named Sweet Thing.

Anyway, the problem was that the sea lion Elementary Girl and I kept coming across was fairly HUGE and intimidating. She lounged crossways in a rather narrow channel, making it tough not to get too close when we passed. Making it tougher was the way Elem. Girl screeched and fearfully clutched the side of my boat--how am I supposed to steer when I can only put the paddle in one side??? I just knew she was going to dump us (Elem. Girl, not the lion), but thankfully, I was wrong about that. Despite that, ahem, roadblock, our time on the water was a super fun respite after a busy week.

So fill me in. What fun stuff did you do this weekend?

Writing on Friday--Katie's new book!

It's Friday, and today I'm working on the acknowledgments page for my next book. That, and several other 'pick up' things that need to happen before jumping into a new writing project. But--stop the show--I wanted to mention that I just received a copy of Kathryn Cushman's newest release, Waiting for Daybreak. Katie and I have been pals for a few years. We traveled to Dallas together last year for the ACFW conference, participated in a Borders author event with Jim Bell in the fall, and took our books on the road via train travel last spring. She puts up with me--which is reason enough to give her books a plug--but she's also a phenomenal story teller. We like to say that I make you laugh (hopefully) and she makes you cry (definitely).

Drop me a comment, and I'll randomly choose someone to win a free copy. It won't be the copy on my nightstand, though--that one's mine :)

Have a beachy weekend--wherever you are! Drawing on Monday. Click here for more info on Waiting for Daybreak.

A new day

Unless you are very young (and if that's the case, why aren't you in school?), you remember the morning seven years ago that rocked our country. I was getting my kids ready for school, when my mother called and said to put on the news. All I remember is lowering myself onto the bed as the infamous images played over and over again. Tears, shock, sadness, and kids who wanted to understand what was happening. Every time I see that bumper sticker that says, "Never Forget", I'm reminded that I never will.

And yet today, I'm thankful to have a new memory attached to this day...my cousin's sweet baby girl was born during the wee hours of this morning, and we're thrilled (tears again!). I can't wait to see her, and hold her, and be reminded of the Bible verse that promises, "I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow."

Can we talk?

Argh...more computer problems the last few days! Thankfully, after a full day of researching and tinkering and screeching at speaking lovingly to my no good blessing of a computer, it's fixed. Yay.

I did take a break this morning to attend Bible study after the summer off. We're doing a study on the tongue called Can We Talk?, by Priscilla Shirer. Considering I spent much of the day humiliating my computer with my one-sided verbal sparring--lol--I think the timing's great. Don't you?

Speaking of verbal sparring, i.e., 'politics', (ha)..I just read that opticians around the country are having a difficult time keeping up with a sudden demand for rimless, titanium eyewear. Lovely librarians...unite ;)

Tomorrow, more on Can We Talk? (unless another random idea takes over...)

Writing on Friday--CAN

Heading into the weekend but wanted to stop in and let y'all know about the launch of the new CAN (Christian Authors Network) website. I'm happy to be a part of this organization, which serves both readers and writers. For readers there's the You've Got Books! book club, giveaways, and sneak peeks. For writers there's tons of networking fun. I'll refer to the organization periodically, but for now, feel free to click here to poke around the site yourself.

Have a beachy weekend--wherever you are!

Chocolate Beach at Starbucks

Here's a shout out to the book club of Westminster Presbyterian. Aren't they all super cute? The gals read Chocolate Beach and invited me for coffee to talk about it (skinny decaf cinnamon dolce, thanks very much ;) Not exactly sure what the hand under the chin means, but Kathy (in lavender) says it's tradition...so why not? I'm game :)

Thanks, Gals, for a terrific night!!!

Movin' Slow

So I took this holiday weekend off. Didn't go out of town, but went to dinner with friends, breakfast with family (or 'brat feast' as one daughter coined it ;), and biked, ran, and kayaked. Yeah, I'm Sarah Palin. Lol...kidding. I couldn't do all that and have my hair look so good.

Anyway, it's Tuesday in September and time to get serious. Not quite the brand-new-start feel of New Years, but doesn't the fall bring about its own 'fresh start' appeal?

Before I get too serious, though, I was tagged for a meme by J. Timothy King. Admittedly, these often make me yawn (especially reading my own--ha), but his kept my interest. So here are 7 weird and random facts about me. Feel free to scroll on down if you'd prefer. Back to serious stuff tomorrow. Maybe.

1. For 9 months, I was a phantom shopper for Taco Bell.

2. I was a ghost writer for 3 years.

3. I've had brain surgery (explains a lot, I know).

4. I went to the Donny & Marie show as a kid--and saw Bob Hope up close.

5. Team Chocolate Beach, of which I was part, participated in an outrigger race last summer.

6. My brothers are both creative types: one's an animator for major motion pictures, the other is an architect for rich folks in LA. I can draw stick figures, barely.

7. Found out I was pregnant while training for the LA Marathon, so on the day of the race, I ran three miles of event--then went and had waffles.

Reading on Friday...and all weekend long

Happy Friday-before-a-holiday-weekend my friends! As I said earlier this week, I've been catching up on all kinds of stuff now that my latest projects are off to editors. Yesterday I listened to the entire Wicked soundtrack while cleaning Teen Son's room. I know what you're thinking--TS should clean his own room--but in his defense, we've been storing stuff in there all summer because of a project going on in another part of the house. It had gotten SO BAD, that somebody older and wiser had to step in (and she did ;). Anyhoo, it's up to him to keep it clean now.

Anyway, with some prime reading and relaxing time ahead of you this weekend (and for you moms at home--now that school has begun), I wanted to make a couple of recommendations:

Last night I finished a novel that's both strange and entertaining, hilarious and wise. Skid by Rene Gutteridge (who I met at a conference once) is the third in her Occupational Hazards series. The 'Hazards' are a bunch of grown circus kids whose parents have died in an unfortunate spa accident leaving them to find new careers and lives. If that doesn't catch your attention, what will? LOL. Anyway, Rene's a master at quirky humor, evidenced by the flying pig, petrified prisoner, and quizzical captain, and yet I found myself tearing up over the final scenes which served as a metaphor for trusting God with our lives (my interpretation).

I mentioned Rachel Hauck's latest book, Love Starts with Elle, in an earlier post, but somehow I deleted it. So here's a two-fer. This is a super-romantic story that kept me reading into the night. It's about a woman who gives up her dreams to follow love only to end up questioning her future with him. Cool love triangle in this one. And there's a thought-provoking subplot involving Elle's sister, a single mother with a secret.

Today, my first book, Chocolate Beach, got a mention on Becky Miller's site, A Christian Worldview of Fiction. Glad to see interest continues with CB, and that it's still available! And I continue to receive fan letters about Truffles by the Sea (thank you very much!). Five stars on Cbd.com--yahoo! (There's a deep discount here if you buy them together.) I loved writing Gaby's story, and call me strange, but sometimes I wonder what she's up to now...;)

Next up, I think I'm going to read a classic Jane Austen novel. There are a few to choose from, so I'll peruse a bit before deciding. Might even watch the Jane Austen Book Club this weekend, to help me decide ;)

So here's to hitting the books, and a wonderful holiday, my friends. Have a beachy weekend--wherever you are!

Today I think I'll...

It's a weird feeling to send off one's manuscript after cleaving to it for many months. I did that yesterday. And last week, I sent off the revision of another book idea that a pub. had been requesting. So basically, I'm FREE!!! (clears throat) Um, until I get feedback from my editors...

In the meantime, I've rehung some drapes, sold items on Ebay, cleaned out overstuffed school folders that hold my kids' work, contacted teachers about various issues--basically, all the stuff I've been ignoring for a while. Today I think I'll clean out & reassess my makeup drawer--especially since Teen Daughter's been pilfering (I just know it)--and spruce up the fridge. I'm also meeting a friend for lunch (have to eat, you know).

Ever have a season like this? I bet teachers who take summers off do. Yeah, we all think they're lolling at the beach, and maybe they do, but something tells me that summertime is also when they clean out the dustbunnies that have been holding tea parties beneath the beds all year.

So, when's your nesting season?

Here Comes the Judge

As Sarah pointed out yesterday, American Idol just hired a new judge: Me. Haha, kidding. I don't know a cowbell from a triangle... Actually, it's Grammy-nominated songwriter Kara DioGuardi. According to the AI website, the original plans for the show called for four judges, rather than the three we've all come to love (or hate, as the case may be ;)

My guess is it's more than that. We know the show can survive on three judges, but what if one of them leaves? It's probably a good idea to get audiences used to a new face, so if the time comes and someone drops, it'll be an easier transition. Don't you think?

In other American Idol news, David A's first cd, Crush, is about to be released. David Cook's cd is supposed to be released soon...I hope!

Anyway, auditions have already begun (not sure if they're over yet), so another season--#8--will be here before we know it. With all the homework the kids already have this year, and more writing deadlines for me--oy vey--will we be getting any sleep at all?

Spread Thin

I've noticed a trend lately among my blogging buddies: Burnout. Weekly I run across blogs announcing that they're taking a break, or never coming back. Just today I learned that the Blogging Chicks Blogroll that I've been on for a couple of years is about to go dark.

Even I've had less to say lately (although hubby would probably not back me up on this...) Is it the proliferation of online communities that have spread us too thin? (Myspace, facebook, shoutlife, CCM, yadayadayada...) Have businesses caught on and blocked users? Is it the reality of what sitting too long does to a person's bum? (I'll be heading out for a walk after this, btw)

Eh. Don't know. What do you think? Have you noticed this too? What's the cure? Hm...I think the folks in this video may have found one...;) Take a min. to watch--it's worth it.

Happy Mother's Day

That's what someone said to me one year when I told them I'd just dropped of my kids for their first day back at school :)

Back to School came a little too quickly for me this time around, partly because this summer's been rougher than usual. Two dear people in our lives passed away, and I find myself thinking of them--and eternity--often.

I've also had the book deadline to contend with--a blessing for sure, but tough with three kids and a revolving office door. (Note to self: Next summer, thicker insulation and a new lock for the office...)

So yesterday, after the kids were settled in their classes, and after I'd spent some time editing my book, I hopped on my bike and headed to the beach. The sand was virtually empty, except for gulls and the occasional mom with toddler in tow. Blue sky, breezy sunshine, warm air--a welcome, meditative mindset. Why don't I do this more often? Why do I allow myself to regularly miss days like this?

I'm not sure of the answer, and I'm still a little sad that summer's come to a close (maybe not on the calendar, but in the household for sure). I'd like to think, though, that as my kids began a new season yesterday, so did I.

Welcome to my World!

For all who've wondered, here's a looksy into the publishing world. Notice the importance of rhythm to the process, LOL... My favorite part is when the editor shoves his current manuscript off his desk, haha, that's classic. Wish I'd thought of it!

Listen to your preacher :)

Footloose!

Let's Hear it for the Boy... Almost Paradise... Holding Out for a Hero...

Lol...yeah, some of the old classics for you. Last night Teen Kids and I saw a live production of Footloose, a musical based on the film about midwestern kids fighting for their right to dance. Lots of terrific characterization and faith questions too. (Word is that a remake is in the works, with Zach Efron. Perfect.) I've waxed poetic about live theater on several occasions, including when Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber appeared on Idol.

Anyway, in case you missed it, Kevin Bacon's a dancing maniac in the 1984 movie of the same name. I had the album in college (Go ahead; do the math. I'll wait. Ready?) Anyway, I played that thing constantly in my dorm room. Actually, it went more like this: I'd put on the album, and jump onto the bed while my roommate Tracy threw open our door and shouted into the hall, "Everybody get foot-loose!" Then we'd scream and dance and occasionally throw a trashcan out each other. Not sure why on that last one.

Ah, memories. Lol...

So back to last night. Kudos to the Rubicon Theater Company!!! What an amazing, electric production! The singing, the dancing, the serendipitous trip down memory lane... Especially fun since the kids all new at least a couple of the performers. Wish I could see it again.

Have a beachy weekend...wherever you are!

p.s. If you're a Footloose fan, I'd love to hear about it :)

Random writings...

Author and reviewer, Donald James Parker, over at The Christian Pulse posted a super nice review of Truffles by the Sea. Fun to read a guy's perspective. (Other than my hubby and father's--since they have to be nice to me ;) Please stop in, and while you're over there, check out the Pulse's cool features.

Just finished up a 10-page marketing packet for my editor over at B&H Publishing Group. Phew! Wrote it while watching more of the Olympic swimming semi-finals, so I hope I didn't accidentally change the hero's name to Phelps or anything...Lol

Anyone have a Kindle? Yeah, me neither. But if you do, and you'd like to see my books on Kindle, you can do a one-click request over on Amazon. Click on the page, look beneath the book's cover and click on "Please tell the publisher: I'd like to read this book on Kindle." Here and here.

It's nearly midnight, on a school night (still finding that hard to believe), so I'm off to get some sleep. Sweet dreams, everybody...

Summer...don't go

Elementary Girl started school already. Already! Teen Kids start up in a week. Hello, summer? Where'd you go?'

Despite the rigors of early mornings and homework, summer's still here, and I'm not ready to let it go just yet. Admittedly, the weather's turned to the breezy, cool side here along the central coast (Global cooling perhaps?) But just a momentary blip, I'm sure. Until the calendar makes it official, I plan to enjoy the long days as much as possible.

My dad gave me an email lashing of sorts the other day because I've not been talking about the Olympics. Um, sorry 'bout that. I guess since the latest news loads up every time I log on, I figured 'nuffs been said. That and my own watching of it has been spotty (too much time hitting the beach--not)

I missed the fabulous French trouncing the other day by Phelps, but caught most of his other great races. Watched in awe last night as a super-strong Chinese gymnast wowed the crowd, and took in those graceful synchronized divers too.

The swimming events are probably my most favorite to watch--I competed for three years on my high school swim team back when (100 Free, 100 Back, and 500 Free, not that you asked). Too out of shape to swim more than a lap these days (working out, another thing on the to-do list), but it's still a thrill to watch those maniac swimmers attacking the water they way they do.

Anyway, what's been your favorite race so far?

That's SO ... Raven

Today's the last day of the Ventura County Fair at Seaside Park. Waaah! Our fair's a hit along the central coast because it's practically on the beach. When the ride lines get to long, you can get your hand stamped and actually walk over to the beach for a breather.

Went twice this time around, and don't even ask how many times Teen Kids went (I'm broke. 'nuff said). One of the nights, I accompanied a group of girlies to the Raven Symone concert. That's Raven in the pic, shaking her booty. Wasn't as much a concert as it was a dance show, but the girls loved it so what do I care? They even opened the mosh pit half way through so the girls could see the sweat on Raven's brow.

Btw, I've embraced texting--the only way I could truly communicate with Teen Daughter all the days of the fair. I mean, it's so loud you can't hear enough to talk, but whenever I needed to find her, texting was the way to go. I used to abhor the idea, until I heard Bible teacher Beth Moore talk about how she texts with some of the teens in her small group. I realized that if I wanted to keep up with the times, with my own kiddos, then I'd better join the program.

Now my kids can't get rid of me, Lol...

Ah well, the sun's out, and God is good, so I'm heading out to spend the day with family. Have a beachy day, my friends, wherever you are!

What's your philosophy?

Elementary Girl had a couple of teeth pulled this morning. Three kids, and three dental surgeries in the past two months. I'm thinking of getting a second job...kidding.

Seriously, though, I watched in awe as the dental assistant prepped EG for her minor surgery. She gave her some laughing gas, and adjusted a flat screen to eye level so she could watch The Parent Trap as the doctor pulled her teeth. How cool is that? We could've had them knock her out, but then she'd have to deal with all the lovely aftermath of that. This escapism thing was much better, in my opinion

Lately, I've been working with a publisher on a non-fiction project. I mentioned this months ago, and some of you kindly responded to my survey for SAHMs. The project continues to morph, and at this writing, I'm re-working it in various ways, including writing it with all busy mothers in mind.

But in the process, the issue of escapism has come up, and we're not talkin' teeth here.

We all have our ways of dealing with hard things, and even just the daily tough stuff. Is it escapism when we run off to the beach to heal? Or distract ourselves with Disney movies during dental surgery? Or is that just learning to deal with life's tough stuff in ways we humans know how?

I admit, I've want to escape at times. Often in raising kids mothers get to a point of no return, a place where they're so worn and frazzled that they need to refill somehow. I'm not blaming this on the kids (at least not at the moment, haha). There's just a lot to do--a lot I want to do--and sometimes I just run out of steam. Know what I mean?

As a Christian, I know the power of the words God left for us. Often, I pull out my Bible (I love The Message version), and I don't need to read long before feeling a Supernatural strength holding me up.

Other times, though, I still have to get out of my disorderly house, or I'll go crazy. I'm enormously thankful to live near the beach, where I can go to pray without someone asking 'what's for dinner'--others prefer the mountains or a park or a river, and hopefully, they can find access to one. Many, many other people do not have the luxury of 'escape', their lives too oppressive, cluttered, demanding.

So is this escapism? Or reaching for solace in times of need? Maybe it's what we reach for that's important. Hm... I'm still working through some things, so tell me what you think...

Finding Stephanie

Finding Stephanie is touring this week! I've been reading this novel in between editing my own book, and really enjoying it! It's got romance, suspense--and horses :)

About the book: When she put her dreams on hold to help run the family ranch, she never imagined they would slip out of sight. Luckily for Stefanie, those dreams are about to come knocking at her door.

Lincoln Cash has gained fame and fortune on the big screen, but a crippling secret leaves him one last chance to make his mark on the movie industry. With dreams of hosting a new film festival, Lincoln intends to remodel a sprawling ranch in eastern Montana to make it the new Hollywood hot spot.

Unfortunately, a house fire threatens his plans. So does opposition from his new neighbor Stefanie Noble, who's not thrilled about his Tinseltown changes. What Lincoln and Stefanie don't know is that the fire won't be the last disaster to threaten Lincoln or his future. Someone is out for revenge... but who? And who is the real target?

Read an excerpt here.

About Susan: Susan May Warren is the award-winning author of seventeen novels and novellas with Tyndale, Steeple Hill and Barbour Publishing. (She's also a fabulous teacher and fun person--we met in Dallas last year.) Her first book, Happily Ever After won the American Fiction Christian Writers Book of the Year in 2003, and was a 2003 Christy Award finalist. In Sheep’s Clothing, a thriller set in Russia , was a 2006 Christy Award finalist and won the 2006 Inspirational Reader’s Choice award. A former missionary to Russia , Susan May Warren now writes Suspense/Romance and Chick Lit full time from her home in northern Minnesota.

Grab your magnifying glass and join Susan on a Fact-o-Find!

Answer these questions about (some of) the bloggers on the tour and be entered to win a $50 gift certificate to the movie theater of your choice (you know, so you can see some of Cash's great movies *G*)! Email Amy your answers ( amy@susanmaywarren.com )

Ready, get set, giddy-up!

1. Which blogger is adopting a girl from China ?

2. This word 'featherbunkle' is found on which blog?

3. Which blogger is supporting the 'Pickens Plan'?

4. Which blog is "The Cutest Blog on the Block"?

5. Which blogger is a S@HM and also a wife, daughter, sister, friend, nursery director, and woman that is just trying to keep it all together?

6. Which blogger is taking the Southern Reading Challenge?

7. Which blog asks 'How may we serve you'?

8. Which blogger refers to her son as 'super good big guy'?

9. Which blogger is a self-proclaimed 'Starbucks Addict'?

10. Which blogger is a big Trekkie?

See blog tour schedule here.

Changed for the better

Just got in from seeing Wicked at the Pantages, a classically ornate theater in Hollywood. Hubby, kiddos and I drove down early and parked at my cousin's home, then made the less than a mile walk to the theater. Along Hollywood and Vine, we walked over a bunch of 'stars'--Audrey Hepburn, Shirley Temple, The Beach Boys, to name a few.

Loved the show! Have you seen it? It's a 'wickedly' creative precursor to the Wizard of Oz. Lots of fanciful story twists (always fun for a writer to see), awesome effects, and good music. Teen Daughter sang a solo/duet of For Good at several performances during her final year of middle school, so of course we all new that one by heart ;)

And yeah, we're the diehard fans who wait behind the theater by the stage door, hoping for autographs. Took an hour, and some tired feet, but we got (most) of 'em! (One actress wasn't feeling well...:( )

p.s. The title of this post is a nod to the song, For Good. Just can't seem to get that one out of my head...!

Kara Down Under's giving away a copy of the book that started my novel writing career: Chocolate Beach. Click on over (or would it be 'under'?) and leave a comment to be entered.

Took Elementary Girl and friend to the fair today. They rode every crazy ride in sight; things that twisted them around, spun them upside down, shook them side to side. At the end of the day they decided to go on a 'baby ride' over in the kiddie section, just for old time's sake. It's one of those tea-cup style attractions that has a turnstyle in the center for participants to control.

Well, when they emerged from spinning themselves silly, they were both green. (And we're not talking the environment here, unless you consider restless stomach bile to be environmental in nature ;) They had to sit down, and recover, from the 'baby' ride. Isn't that the way...?

And no, I didn't ride any rides. But I had a nice vanilla latte, and at least a dollar in change leftover on the way out, so I've no complaints. Have a beachy weekend, my friends--wherever you are!

Writing on Mon., er, Tues.--Have laptop will travel

Using a laptop to write my novels has revolutionized my writing career. Take today. I was working on the final chapter of my book (35 to be exact), but Teen Son had to have some gnarly dental surgery. So after dropping Teen Girl off where she needed to be, and taking Elementary Girl to soccer camp, Teen Son and I arrived for his appointment. Right away, I took stock of the outlets in the small waiting area and found an empty one to plug my computer in to. After that, I was set. During the nearly 2 hour surgery, I wrote, and wrote, and wrote. Fortunately, I also found a stray wireless signal to hop onto for Internet breaks :) Hey, a girl's gotta find some fun in her day...

This scenario is becoming more and more common for me, and while it's increased productivity, the downside is that I'm, um, exhausted more often than not. Not a lot of downtime when I'm on deadline and momtime. Still, I can't complain. I'm thankful to have the laptop working and making my writing accessible (especially since it's crashed once already, and the power cord lost, well, power). I'm grateful that I can both work and mother my kids during daytime hours (and never ever let him forget he's a man... If you don't know the song I'm referring to, ask your, um, older sister. Lol...)

So, anyway, here are a few quick things I've learned about the mobile writing life:

1. Email a copy of work to yourself, or save it on a thumb drive. Every time. Always!!! (Don't ask.)
2. Do a spell check later, when the distractions are at a minimum. Prepare to laugh. A lot.
3. Investing in a car changer for the laptop isn't a luxury--it's a necessity.
4. Keep your eyes open for those freebie wifi signs. Never know when one'll come in handy.
and 5. Don't leave your radio and fan on while you sit by the side of the ocean writing in your car. (Hint: Bring jumper cables.)

How about you? Has a laptop given you more freedom to work where you want--or has it caused more stress?

Fashion faux pas

So I'm in line to check out at the orthodontist's office this morning when Teen Son points at the woman in front of us, and laughs. She's a brunette, and she's wearing jeans, black flip flops, a black and white sleeveless blouse from Ann Taylor, with a black tank underneath it.

I was wearing the Exact Same Thing. I kid you not.

We giggled a lot, she and I, but neither of us mentioned that our blouses, acknowledged to be from Ann Taylor, are at least a year old. Yeah, great minds think alike...

(P.S. Finishing up next novel today, so I'll be blogging about writing tomorrow. Have a beachy day--wherever you are!)

Hangin' with Kev

So Hubby, Teen Son, and I took a bike ride through downtown Ventura tonight, and check out who we ran into--Kev, KC...KEVIN COSTNER! Lol... Yeah, Kev grew up in this town, so he threw a 'little' party, which included dinner & movie (Swing Vote) for $500 a pop (money goes to local charities). After the premier, he and his band gave a free concert in the center of town.

We ended up watching the whole thing unfold from our spot at the top of California St., aka the famed 'C' street, known for great surf where it meets the beach. Anyway, there we were, focusing our binocs on the stage below when look who shows up within kiss-blowing distance! He was staring right at me, I'm sure of it...yeah, uh-huh. So I fumbled the camera and only got this profile shot. See him?

He was attempting to make a sneaky entrance when someone in our section called out, "Isn't that him?" That's when the cheering started, and Kev playfully shushed us with a forefinger to his boyish lips. Haha...sorry, started lapsing into scene writing...

Where was I? Yeah, the concert. Here's a pic of Kev with his guitar, and band, Modern West, tellin' stories, and singin' songs. Who knew the guy could sing? Tell me this...!

Here's the theater where the big premier took place. This is a shot of the crowd milling about, you know, just in case Somebody Big stepped out.

Pretty much the population of Ventura, right there on Main and California.

p.s. Click on the last picture to enlarge it, and see the ocean view over top of that stage. Mah-ve-lous.

All the pretty colors

I cannot pretend to feel impartial about colors. I rejoice with the brilliant ones and am genuinely sorry for the poor browns.

~ Winston Churchill


...unless they are chocolate browns, of course ;)
~ Julie Carobini

So in between writing, and a million other things, I've been trying to help my girls--who share a room--pick just the right shade of green for their bedroom walls. They're about to get a fresh coat of paint. Oh, baby, there's a lot of greens! Bright kinds, muted shades, ones that cast a yellow pall in unnatural light. Ack. At the moment, we've settled on a bright happy color that I can only call #430, since I, uh, forgot to write down its trendy name.

Speaking of God's beautiful and varied palette, here are a few pics from our trip up north last week. The top one shows my "office," since this was a working trip. Although it's tough to see in the pic, the view above the tree tops is of the vast and mesmerizing Pacific Ocean, in vibrant blue, no less (translation: I didn't get much written ;)

We had deer. Lots and lots of fearless deer--spotted babies, mommies, and bucks--day and night, all over the place. Loved it, even when I had to hike right next to them to get back home.

And hubby took this picture at rosy sunset as I sat in my favorite spot. I miss that view!!! And the island-time pace...(happy) sigh.

Writing on Monday--a day late--CAN

Did I mention that while on vacation last week, in California no less, there was nearly zero cellphone access? And to get wireless for my laptop, I had to sit in my car, in a restaurant parking lot, and catch a stray signal. LOL... The proliferation of cell phones, etc., has made story writing all the more difficult. I mean, when the heroine gets lost, or her boyfriend turns up missing, don't you sometimes want to say, "Hey, just use your cell phone!"? If it weren't for dropped (or in last week's case, missing) signals, I don't know what we novelists would do...

Speaking of writers (we sort of were, weren't we?), I've recently joined up with a fabulous organization called CAN (Christian Authors Network). If you're interested in the writing field (non-fiction included!), the network offers a wealth of career info from seasoned professionals (how's that for a brochure-worthy sentence?) Feel free to stop by and check them, I mean 'us', out :)

Catchin' up

Just checking in. We're back from our little trip up north where we saw deer in the yard of our rented house, heard sea lions barking all night long, and had a killer view that made the dinky rental totally worth it.

Came back to a house in disarray due to some refurbishing we're having done (that isn't done yet), Teen Daughter's b'day celebration (fun!), and a touch of a bug that's wearing me out.

While I recoup, and deal with more computer issues, catch me up on what's going on in your neck of the world. Talk to me!

Happy Saturday! I've been awol, primarily because the humidity in my neck of the coast has turned my mind to mush. Did y'all register the worldwide shock when Deanna picked Jesse last week? (Except you, Mrs. Sidney) We'd been out, so I just caught the end of the show, and what a shocker. Watched it back on tivo the other night though and kept thinking how nice that Jesse cleaned up, lol. Haircuts are a good thing, you know? Speaking of reality shows, sweet Shane left Food Network Star last weekend. Knew that would happen soon, but he's a good kid. Kind of intense, but a sweetheart. I'm rattling on about reality t.v....did I tell you my mind was mush this week or what?

We're off for some r&r along the central coast of California, one of my favorite spots ever. I've told you before that my next three books are set around there. Lots of moonstones, and rocky coves, and foggy mornings followed by sunny days. Can't wait. When I can find a hot spot (and I'm not referring to the fires!), I'll stop in with news. Otherwise, have a beachy weekend, wherever you are!

Summertime 'boardom'

Since Teen Kids are out of town all week, Elementary Girl hoodwinked talked hub and me into a perpetual game of Monopoly. Of course, we don't play your average Monopoly around here, but the Surfing Edition (what were you thinking?). It's been set up on the dining room table for going on 3 days now, and may I say, it's starting to get ugly. Desperation set in last night for one of us (nameless, of course) who began under the table negotiations for property, tsk, tsk.

Aside from that dark moment, this version makes me want to go on vacation--or better, own rental property in exotic locales. So far this week I've been to Waimea Bay, Cloudbreak, Bells Beach, Pipeline and Teahupo'o. Good thing I'm going on vacation in a few days...or else I might become bitter. Lol...

Even if you don't get away this summer, tell me you pull out the ol' games and have some lazy day fun that doesn't involve computers, plasmas, the wii, cellphones or ipods. Quick--what's the last board game you played?

Writing on Monday--Gettin' it done

I'm in the thick of writing my next book, but summer keeps getting in the way ;) This week, Teen Son and Teen Daughter are away at camp, and Elementary Girl has day camp to attend. So I'm upping my daily word count to get this puppy done. Next week we're heading north (hopefully the fires will have subsided) to the area along California's central coast that has inspired this particular book series. It'll be a vacation-slash-research trip, and I can't wait to set up my computer near an ocean view window and edit away...ahhh!

Speaking of fires, my good pal, Katie Cushman and her family are under mandatory evacuation orders--yikes! Please offer a prayer for them and the whole Santa Barbara community that is once again under heavy smoke. She's been posting pics on her blog, and just looking at them makes me want to cough.

Happy 4th!

Took this little quiz, and may I just say: "Phew!" I ain't dumb, I guess (first try, I promise!). Go on now and eat some apple pie, take this quiz, then let me know how you do. It's so good to be free, isn't it? (And to my friends outside the US--hope your day is 'spectacular' too!)

Have a beachy weekend--wherever you are!

You Are a Smart American

You know a lot about US history, and you're opinions are probably well informed. Congratulations on bucking stereotypes. Now go show some foreigners how smart Americans can be.

Are You a Dumb American?

Miss me?

Had a little computer crash the other day--something that's super fun when you're on deadline. Sigh. But I'm back, and working to get used to the laptop again in its factory-restored state.

Anyhoo, I'm looking for some advice. Just booked tickets for a little trip to NYC for our fam of five for October. We'll have four and 1/2 days there before driving to Penn. to see hubby's family. So. If you know New York, what are the must sees? I'm planning to 'hit the ground running' as if we're on a tour (ala 'Bri' my tour hosting heroine in Chocolate Beach. Sorry. Couldn't help the comparison...;). So far, my own must sees are:

Statue of Liberty
Broadway Show (We already have tickets for Wicked in LA this summer, so any other suggestions???)
Central Park
Time Square (Hoping to stay near there)

Please! Send me your ideas!

waterlogged

Elementary Girl's been keeping me busy these days with trips to Grandma and Grandpa's pool, the local water park, and yesterday, I bought a slip 'n' slide. Remember those? This one's cool with an inflatable landing surface and adjustable water spouts. The one I had growing up provided zero softness, but enough speed to slide me right into one of our rusty sprinkler heads. Tetanus anyone? Lol...yow-zah

Yesterday, June gloom hovered over my morning, but today, the sun's been shining since dawn. Love days like this. Makes me feel like more'll get done, or then again, maybe nothing at all...

Still working away on the great american novel :), and really enjoying this story--especially the romantic thread (be still, my heart). Last night I caught part of the Bachelorette and thought, "You think that's romance? That's nothing compared to my Josh!" (Josh is the hero in my next book ;))

Ah well...off to take advantage of the sun while it lasts in our fog prone section of CA. Have a beachy day, my friends!

Writing on Monday--ACFW Conference

Last year, I was almost homeless. Well, for or a night anyway. I'd booked a room for the ACFW conference in Dallas, but needed to fly in a night early, and the hotel was full. That's how popular this event has become. Thankfully, author Cara Putman came to my rescue and invited me to share her room for the night since her own roommate wouldn't arrive until the next day.

I'd never attended this conference before, but had heard of its reputation. Kathryn Cushman (A Promise to Remember) and I flew in together from LAX, feasting on chocolate and Xanax (um, wait, that second morsel was mine alone ;0) Okay, so I'm not a good flyer? It doesn't stop me from traveling, as I've been over the pond, as they say, as well as across the country many times.

Ahem. Where was I? Oh yeah, the conference. If you've been following the ACFW conference blog tour, you've probably read about the non-stop lobby gatherings that run all day, every day of the event (you know, in between all that eating and learning). Anyway, Katie and I found a couch that first night with a clear view of the hotel's sliding lobby doors. People watching at its finest.

"Hey, isn't that?"
"Psst...look what bestseller just came in."
"Omg--she looks just like her blog picture!"

Did I mention that I met Colleen Coble and Diann Hunt in (different) bathroom lines? Try being tongue-tied with a full bladder! Lol...I also sat in on classes by other fabulous authors such as Susan Meissner, Susan May Warren, and Rachel Hauck. I love learning, and their classes offered me fresh perspectives, innovative techniques, and lots of discussion with writers at all levels.

If you've ever wanted to write a novel, especially one with elements of faith, the ACFW conference is the place to start. You'll make new friends (Cara and I had never even met before she got stuck hearing me snore all night!), meet some of your favorite authors (bathroom lines are good for that), and most importantly, learn from accomplished and amazingly giving teachers.

This year the conference will be in Minneapolis, MN with a multi-author booksigning on Saturday at the Mall of America. You can find out more info here. Also, check out the ACFW POSTS on my sidebar to read about some of my adventures last year (including meeting Vader's Mom face to face). And you can also visit the ACFW conference blog for more attendee insights.

Have a beachy day--wherever you are!

Will laugh for food

So last night I laughed my face off while talking to old friends at a party. Year ago, this particular group loved to give surprise parties. It became so old that victims just learned to put on a 'startled' face, as if. Anyway, fast forward a few years (okay, more than a few, but still), and someone decides to throw a surprise party. We didn't know if it would work, but figured, hey, it'll be a good place for free food (haha...kidding, you know).

Well, our victim was surprised, and oh so happy, and while the free food was yum, the yakking was even better. So here's to tradition and old friends--may you have them both!

Have a peaceful and beachy, Sunday! Tomorrow I'll be talking about the ACFW conference in MN. Hope you'll stop by.

I missed writing on writing last Monday (bad blogger, bad), but in my defense, the summer has turned my schedule upside down. Anyone else feel like that? And once again today, I have to run, but not before directing you over to Eileen Astel's blog: A Christian Romance Writer's Journey, where I'm being interviewed. And we're giving away a copy of Truffles by the Sea too!

See you tomorrow, my bloggity friends!

Zzzzzz!

My kid's taller. I mean it. Hubby and I circled LAX a few times this morning until I spotted Teen Son's crew of 18 who had just flown in from Belize. It's a weird feeling letting your child, your baby for heaven's sake, fly off to some foreign country without you. But he has a zeal for missionary work, so we step out of the way.

On the drive back from the airport, some of team told us stories of humid days, busy children, orphanages, hospitals, mosquitos and prayer (lots of that last one, especially). They talked about families living in thatched huts, and a group of children walking ten miles to participate in VBS (the pastor arranged to pick them up the rest of the week).

I'd tell you more but Teen Son's still sleeping, and I'm feeling a little woozy myself from the late night--er--morning... On a side note, while we circled the airport like lost pelicans, I got a kick out of seeing so many different people coming into LA at all hours and from all over. Made me want to travel more. In the fall we'll be going to New York, and next year I'm hoping for Italy.

What about you, my bloggity friends? If fuel costs were not an issue, where would you like to go?

Writing on Friday--Mentoring Groups & Debbie Fuller Thomas

A friend has just given birth to a new "baby" and I'd like to share in her joy :) Debbie Fuller Thomas and I met at the Mt. Hermon Christian Writer's Conference in Northern California. We were both part of a mentoring group led by author Randy Ingermanson. Probably one of the most terrifying experiences of my writing life. Actually, there've been others more terror-worthy since, but that one took the scary cake at the time.

Anyway. The mentoring groups meet during the conference. Participants sit around a table after having pre-read each others' manuscripts, and then offer face to face critiques. I'd submitted Chocolate Beach that year, and let me tell you, I was nervous. It turned out fabulously well though because after receiving my knee-shaking critiques, I went home and re-worked the story, and as I've said (maybe a little ad nauseum ;), it sold.

Debbie was part of that same group, with her manuscript, Tuesday Night at the Blue Moon. I remember her story well because it was dripping with emotion and conflict, and it gave me chills. I wanted so much to know how it ended, and finally--publishing can take years--I get to find out. My daughter also read through the manuscript and is anxiously awaiting the finished book, but she'll have to fight me for it, ha.

Here's a terrific review of Debbie's debut over at Novel Journey. I hope you'll check it out. And if want to write, and you're able to attend the Mt. Hermon Christian Writer's Conference, I urge you to do it.

Have a beachy weekend, my bloggity friends--wherever you are!

xtremely silly

In honor of the basketball finals last night--I'm not really a fan, but it was on in the background--I give you this sports-oriented quiz. And let me just state for the record, there's no way I'd skydive! I might consider bungee jumping though (Lol, yeah right)

You Should Try Skydiving

Don't look before you leap and you'll become a hardcore extreme sports addict

What Extreme Sport Should You Try?

Inspiring week

Here's a pic of my son and the missions team he's with in Central America. These kids are out building houses, sharing the gospel, and playing sports and games with children who live in an orphanage. You know, doing the kinds of things that really matter.

I'm especially inspired because of the memorial service I just attended for my friend, Andrea. Andrea was 47 years young, a loving wife, the devoted mother of two, and a good friend to so many. It's been a heavy week, thinking of her long battle with cancer and ultimate passing. And yet, her memorial was such an inspiration to me, and to many, I'm sure. Andrea had much in her short life: family, nice home, fancy car. But it's her zeal for life, and faith in God that I'll remember the most. You know, the kinds of things that really matter.

Writing on Monday--Interviewing your characters

Brief post today because I'm a little delirious after a full weekend, including visiting my coochy-coo nephew (5 months old!) and then sending Teen Son off to central America last night on a missions trip with a local church. (Tossed and turned some over that one...)

But I wanted to talk to you about getting to know your characters. I know I've said that my writing related posts probably wouldn't fall into the how-to category, but this simple idea helped me so much that I wanted to pass it along to you.

One of the best classes I've taken about this subject was taught by author Susan Meissner at the ACFW conference in Dallas. Instead of making lists of her character's needs, desires, and favorite things--which can come out flat and lifeless--she interviews them. (I've always talked with my characters, but I don't often share that bit of my madness...)

Anyway, I love the spontaneous aspect of interviewing my characters. Like when I asked Tara, my newest heroine, how she would handle failure and she snapped at me: "Fail? Why would I fail?" She then furrowed her brow and said, "You need to think more positively."

Well. She didn't need to get so huffy about it, but I know more about her now, don't I? I could've asked myself how Tara would handle failure, and that would have been fine, but more of her voice came out when I turned the question around and asked it of her.

If you're a writer, try playing reporter and turning your lists around. Instead of asking yourself "What is so-and-so's favorite movie?" Ask her "What's your favorite movie, and why?" Never know what she might say...

Writing on Friday--Planning

Today's the first official day of summer break for our family (sigh of relief blows through the house...). All three kiddos are home (Wait. Did I say that sigh was of relief? haha). Anyway, my deadline is a couple of months away, so I'll need to figure out a good plan to get this book done and spend quality time with each one of the kids. If you're a writer too, chances are you do this from home and face the same schedule challenges. Right?

Admittedly, it's getting easier. Teen Son drives and Teen Daughter & friends are self-sufficient. Elementary Girl, however, still needs her mama pretty much 24/7 :) So I've worked out a plan to be super mom and get the book done while having the time of our lives here at kid central.

First, I've dropped my word count by half. For the past couple of months, in anticipation of summer, I've written and written and written. Now that it's here, I can cut back a little and still make my deadline at the end of summer.

Second, my girls don't roll out of bed until late morning (apple didn't fall far from the tree...), so I need to write in the morning. But my brain doesn't always work until mid-day. Oh, the conundrum! So what I've done is some pre-planning. For ex., last night everyone was sawing logs while I planned out what I'd be working on this morning. That way, I don't have to face the morning with sleepy eye AND a blank page.

Third, when I'm done, I'm done. It's summer, and I don't want to miss it. The word count I've assigned myself is do-able, and if the kids are still sleeping, and I can do more, I will. But once I've hit it, I let myself be free to hit the beach or the ice cream shoppe or whatever.

One caveat, I might be making it easier than it sounds. It's not easy. At all. And if you work full time and write and have a family, this schedule may not work for you. But in the land of laptops,I'm also finding that writing in snippets has become easier. Just last week I sat in the car and wrote during Elementary Girl's piano lesson. The time would have been idle anyway. Bottom line, to enjoy the summer best, you'll need to make adjustments--that fit your family.

On Monday, I'm 'planning' (get it? planning...) to talk about interviewing your characters. In the meantime, have a beachy weekend--wherever you are!

Pomp & Circumstance

Teen daughter graduated from middle school last night, and is officially on to high school. Wa-hoo! As we settled in for the ceremony, a couple of people informed us that these things "usually take 3 hours." We hadn't eaten, and besides, I wasn't sure we were all capable of actually sitting that long. Thankfully, though, these were exaggerations. The ceremony went zippity zip and completed in two hours. Very nice!

Lots of tears and hugs afterward, and I suddenly became like the paparazzi, following Teen Daughter around and snapping pics whenever she stopped for a 1/2 second. "Look there she goes." "Wait--where'd she go?" "Oh, quick, over there!" Yeah, me and a camera--it's a beautiful thing. LOL... She'll be thanking me later, I know it.

Can I be honest about something though? I am so very happy to get the drama of middle school behind us. She learned much from some terrific teachers, and has matured beautifully, and has made some sweet friends, but those 11-13s are rough, rough, rough, I tell you. (Mean girls ain't just a movie!) Can you relate?

So congrats to my precious daughter for rising above the drama ~ and to the rest of our household who survived ;-)

Save gas

A lot of you told me you wouldn't be taking vacation this year because of the gas crunch. I so get that. With three kiddos, I drive around town a lot, and spend way too much time and moola at the gas pump.

Then last week, I got a nail in one of tires, and had to have it patched. The tire company offered to fill my tires with nitrogen instead of regular air, saying it saved mileage along with wear and tear. We agreed. Oh. my. goodness. My 1/2 tank lasted a week!!! I did a little search on google, and found that Nascar's been using nitrogen for years.

Not everyone agrees that it makes any difference, but for me it's been huge. And it only cost 4 bucks per tire--same as a gallon of gas, these days (yikes). Just wanted to pass that along...vacation, anyone?

Idol Chatter

It's been a few weeks since we talked about American Idol. Let us all have a moment of silence. *sniff* Okay, feeling better? First off, have you all heard David C singing Time of My Life on the radio? The first time I heard it I did a double take, then a "turn it up!!!" shout out. It's apparently hitting all kinds of records. He'll be singing the national anthem at the 3rd game of the NBA finals, too :)

And David A just signed a deal with Jive records, same one that signed Jordin Sparks, so losing AI isn't necessarily a bad thing.

Oh! And I found Chris Sligh's (from season 6) new release, Running Back to You, on CBD.com. How fun is that? He's also got a praise cd coming out later this month. Always liked him...

In other reality show news, I just read that Amy Finley, last season's Food Network winner, has quit her own show, The Gourmet Next Door, and moved with her family to France for the summer.

Well. I would if I could! How about you? If you could follow a new dream, and money didn't matter, what would it be?

Writing on Monday--Videos

Summer's here for some of you outside CA, but we're still in those last few days of rush with finals and a graduation and elementary school parties! (Calgon, take me a way, you know?) As a mom and a writer, I'm toiling to get in my daily word count while still being available for all that's on my plate. My deadline is my deadline. It's not going to change, so I'm the one who has to adjust, but that's okay because I've gotten used to it.

How about you? Do you work a job that you can adjust in the summer? How will you balance it all over the next couple of months?

Sorry if this post is a bit rambling...the blogging's the first thing to go when the hours become so filled ;) In addition to writing the next book, I'm also continuing to get the word out about my current babies. Remember this if you become a writer: just because you're writing something new, doesn't mean you can forget about what's already out there. Kind of like real kids, you know (ha).

Anyway, I've been playing with animoto.com lately, putting together super fun videos to let people know about the beach reads I've written. (Kudos to Teen Son's high school pals who posed with my books :)) It's fun and free and anyone can do it (trust me on this). If you decide to do one yourself, post the link in my comments so we can all check it out. (I learned about this over on Brandilyn's blog.)

Click here for the latest version of mine. What do you think?

Me? Quirky?

Not long ago I was sent back to the drawing board to re-write a book proposal. The editor (who knows me well) basically said I needed to put more of 'me' into the proposal. It lacked my quirk value, apparently. Hate it when that happens. Lol...

So anyway, I found this super-scientific quiz (not), and all I gotta say is...whatever. Ha. Let me know your results!

Your Quirk Factor: 55%

You're a pretty quirky person, but you're just normal enough to hide it. Congratulations - you've fooled other people into thinking you're just like them!

How Quirky Are You?

kids, and books, and funny food

So Teen Daughter took off this morning with her 8th grade class for a three-day trip, Teen Son's getting ready for a mission's trip out of the country, and Elementary Girl's nearly as tall as her teen sister. Waaa! How'd they grow so fast?

Have to admit, though, that it's fun to watch :)

Just a few things to catch you up on. First, if you're looking to pick up a signed copy of Chocolate Beach, it's now available through signedbytheauthor.com. People love getting these as gifts~just click on the link on my sidebar to go straight to my book's listing.

And if you're summer book club's thinking of reading Truffles by the Sea, let me know so I can send you a stack of bookmarks. I also wrote some bonus questions (extras that you won't find in the back of the book) for cbd.com, and you can find those here.

And in a truly unrelated post, is anyone else addicted to Food Network Star? The new season just started and my dvr recorded it (probably because we obsessed over this show last year). Anyway, it's gonna be good again...I can tell ;) If you watch it, what'd you think about the unfunny comic chef? LOL...those of you who don't watch it are going to want to see a recap!