In the Still Of the Night!

In the still of the night, when all was dark and quiet. A strange sound awoke me. Honestly I thought it was the gods trying to tell me that my heater was going out, but alas it was just them telling me I need to change my filter. Later on I awoke to the feeling of being trapped. My feet were being held in place by my  forty pound lab, chow mix. She apparently didn't think sleepin in the three comforters she's somehow acquired was enough to keep her warm at night so She's decided it wuld be best on me.
What can I say it's freezing in Florida. At least it is to Floridians.

PS David I think No Doubt was supposed to be in the studio again.

Music Monday! No Doubt- Underneath it all

Music Monday! Katy Perry- Firework

For that post holiday pick me up!

Thanksgiving!

This week has been a whirlwind of preparations for Thanksgiving.  I didn't grow up celebrating Thanksgiving, we had harvest and then Christmas. No thanksgiving. That isn't to say that we didn't give thanks, we just didn't have an actual day.

Everytime we got together as a family, whether it be for a Saturday afternoon at Aunt Patsy's house to pick up fresh baked bread, or monthly Sunday family dinners or even the days when my grandmother would feed whoever showed up for lunch. It was a moment of thanksgiving. those moments of camaraderie sitting around a table talking about your day, your life, and the people in it.

Those moments are precious, and often times rare. So my advice is to treasure them.

We'll be having friends and family over on Thursday. All of these people hold a special place in our lives. And no matter the stress of running around cleaning and cooking it's worth it.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone. 

XOXOXO
Chudney

On another note, I'll be combining my People of Interest post with my Wednesday post, it's just easier that way for me.

Music Monday! Matisyahu- King without a Crown.

Grammar Drama!

OK so this was wasn't the post I intended to write, but as I sat down this morning my daughter approached me about a few things. One of which is the use of hyphens and parentheses.

Funny how I forgot we have to learn all this stuff is not instinctive until you learn it. Try explaining that to someone who wants to know the answers right away.

I had her read the passage in question and then tell her what she thought the writer wanted to say. (because they wanted to explain the words philosophers in one word thinkers) An obvious use of parentheses to me, but, I forgot she's an eleven year old and needs a dictionary and has no idea what parentheses are used for. therefore she wants to use a hyphen.

Explaining all this is a lesson in patience. Which reminds me:
-One we never stop learning.
-Two everyone has to learn something at sometime
-Three we don't always know as much as we think we do, and often have to revisit what we thought we knew in order to help someone.

So without further adieu , a big thank you to The Grammar Divas who's blog on Punctuation and Capitalization Rules for the Fiction Writer came in handy this morning. Thanks Annie and Darlene!

Music Monday! Tears for Fears. Shout!

Wednesday Update!

Ok so I really haven't been feeling well the past couple of days. And so while I feel better it's time for me to make up for my non existent post. Pretty much here's what's been happening.

My brother came to visit with his family, which included my mini-sumo wrestler. But I couldn't talk about it, on the off chance that his mother in law was lurking on facebook and would see me talking about it. And since they were trying to surprise her it was a no go for me. I'm still waiting for authorization to post pics.

Then through the haze of NyQuil I discovered the Far East Movement 's like a G6 cannot be embedded. Which sucks since I wanted to post it on Music Monday. Ok so apparently it was the haze of NYQUIL that prevented me from embedding it. : ) Now picture my eleven and five year old singing Like a cheese stick, the one time they heard it.



Though it's true I can't embed Fat Boy Slim's weapon of Choice, featuring Christopher Walken. Ok so I'm going to break down the lyrics to both these songs because after listening to them, well i have to. See you on Friday.

Music Monday! Lady Gaga, Bad Romance.

Independence Day!

I was going to write about my angst as a writer today. About the fact, you face rejection every time you send out a query, or pitch to an agent, or enter a contest. That people seem to think putting together 100,000 words is easy, and if only they had the time to write a book they would. That sometimes I don't know why I write, I just do because it's something I can't stop.

Then I woke up this morning and realized that today is independence day back home in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

So I decided, Hell if it's independence day who the hell cares about the angst I do what I do. I write and I'll keep writing until I reach my goal and beyond. To hell with those who think it's OK to belittle me or condescend to me. It's my independence day as well.

Music Monday! 3 Canal

And Good day to you!

So I really had no idea what I would be writing about today. That maybe due to the fact I haven't slept well in a while. And apparently the image reloads have been disabled. So I guess I'll leave you with a quote from Mr. Anthony Bourdain.

"Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life - and travel - leaves marks on you. Most of the time, those marks - on your body or on your heart - are beautiful. Often, though, they hurt."
— Anthony Bourdain (The Nasty Bits: Collected Varietal Cuts, Useable Trim, Scraps, and Bones)

Have a wonderful day and remember even if you can't travel you can still experience something new by stepping outside your comfort zone.

Music Monday! Bond

No it's not the Bond you're thinking of. Bond is an all female string quartet. When I feel the need for instrumental with a bit of an edge this is what I listen to.

People of Interest: Bob Fosse.

Do you know who I'm talking about? Robert Louis Fosse

He was the man that directed/choreographed Sweet Charity, Chicago and Caberet. Why did I decide to feature him this week? I literally couldn't get Big Spender out of my head for the past week. so What do you do when Fosse haunts you, post a video .

AHHH!

So in addition to not being  able to find the book I know I own. The book I really want to read. I dropped my laptop and now have to work from a spider webbed screen. Hubby has the idea that if the laptop keeps working (BTW I've backed up my manuscripts) then we change out the screen. In the meantime I'll keep working from my damaged baby hopefully we can afford a new one.

Music Monday! 10000 Maniacs

I've been wnting to post this song for a while and finally I've gotten around to it. "Because the Night."

People of Interest: The IT Geek!

So many of us have no idea who that dude is. He may walk around in a polo and a pair of Khakis or a pair of Jeans and a comic book T-shirt. But the IT guy is the guy that knows how to fix that pesky thing called a computer.

He speaks in a language most of us do not understand. And when you look at him in absolute puzzlement he wonders how you managed to live this long.But he's the guy you turn to when you've lost all your info, all your pictures and in general want to shoot the screen that keeps blinking.

He'll get you that new monitor, rebuild your tower, and make sure your documents go the the right printer. Though it may not happen exactly when you want it. Especially when you manage to infect your computer with a virus for the umpteenth time and he may grumble at you. However he'll get you back up and running.  

Creative Writing!

So I'm now helping out the 11 year-old with her creative writing extra credit project. Because that's what it called for now. Because surprise, surprise, like us adults the kiddies have a hard time coming up with titles. And like us adults in the  she has no idea why she's supposed to edit. Now I don't use the term edit with her because when I was ranting and raving about my own work she looked at me in confusion whenever I mentioned the word edit.

Let me just say she knows what a synopsis is and a first draft as well because they teach them that in school. But I think their version of editing is looking for spelling errors. Which is fine. But my daughter lives in her own world and when I read the story, I could tell that half of it was stuck in that world. So now I'm trying to gently ask her questions about her story to see if she'll put them down.

Or do you think I'm being a crazy writer mom?

PS My friend Jeffe Wrote these two post Catch a falling star and put it in your pocket Which I was stuck on for a while and when I went back there was  Lamy llamas and falling stars Which I'd missed because I'd been caught up thinking about the other one. (I was also the awkward girl growing up.)

Music Monday! Winston Soso

I grew up dancing to this song at many a party, and I'm pretty sure I'll be hearing it at a wedding later this year. Winston Soso's "I Don't Mind." this song was arranged by Frankie McIntosh at talented musician from St Vincent and the Grenadines.

People of Interest: Peter Minshall

People give me a confused look whenever I say the word Mas. I know they're thinking Mass, as in going to church, specifically the Catholic church. Which leads them to look at me quizzically since I tend to mention costumes and music that moves through my body. Mas is light and color and sound and people and passion.

Peter Minshall is a Trinidadian born, Masman. A caribbean treasure who has managed to bring forth the art in the chaos. I think these two videos show you way better than I could ever explain, who he is and what he does.

What I did two weekends ago.

A friend of mine was here on vacation a few weekends ago. The families met up and off  we went to the Orlando Science Center. Here are a few of my favorite creatures from the trip.

Mr Lizard

The Distinguished Bearded Dragon

Turtles and Alligators. Don't worry the gators were small.

The inquisitive Mr. Snake.

The Hairy Tarantula.

Music Monday! Johnny Cash.

I try to be upbeat on Monday's but a friend of mine looked at a manuscript I've got out on submission, and she said I need to dig deeper into to emotion. Immediately this song came to mind. So I give you "Hurt"

Johnny Cash - (HURT) - Click here for more blooper videos

People of Interest:: Bobby McFerrin.

Do you guys remember Bobby McFerrin? Does "Don't worry. Be happy." ring a bell? Yep that's right, that's him. But I bet you didn't know He was a vocalist and a conductor. Born to musically gifted parents he's gone on to win ten Grammy awards and given us this feel good anthem.

Truth be told I had no idea who I was going to talk about today but then I heard that song rolling through my head. Then I remembered that there was more to this man than a Robin Williams filled video and a feel good song. I remembered  Sixty Minutes (at least I think it was Sixty Minutes) doing an interview with him and being struck by his seemingly unassuming self and his awesome talent.

Sometimes we only judge artist by what the popular majority feels is a hit and the truth is there are often untold depths that haven't been showcased. So I leave you with another side to Mr. McFerrin that you may or may not have seen.

Social Media?

So I had a conversation with someone the other day about .... Social Media. Is it really social? What's appropriate? Should a facebook profile determine your eligibility for employment? these were all discussed.

So is it Social? Yes, kind of. You can sit on your couch and interact with friends and family all over the world. Is it social in the way we defined social in years past no. It's not getting out there face to face but then again when you're talking a five hour time difference or an eight hour plane ride it's social. especially when your alternative  is a letter my snail mail. (Will discuss the death of letter writing another  time)

So what's appropriate behavior for social media? Please, please don't put anything on your website, facebook page, Blog, twitter, that you wouldn't want your mother to see. If you'll be embarrassed about it don't put it out there.

Watch what you say. We all suffer from foot-in-mouth disease from time to time, but please before you hit send at least re-read what you're about to put out there for the world to see. Trust me I've done this before and when I looked back on my angry rant I wasn't happy with what I saw.

Should it determine whether or not you're eligible for employment? well here's the deal, it shouldn't be the only factor. If you are doing something that's illegal and someone (lets face if everyone has a camera nowadays) or yourself decides to post a picture then, you better know someone is going to see it. remember six degrees of separation. It's a small world and I have it on good authority that companies will google you. Chances are someone is friends with you and also knows your boss or boss to be. So play it safe ramp up those privacy settings and take down any unflattering photo's.

Music Monday! Weezer!

Ladies and Gentlemen I give you El Scorcho!

Pics from NY

I swear my weekends just booked up and I have no idea how that happened. suddenly I'm running around like a mad woman I'll be happy when feburary rolls around. My aunt confirmed that she'll be spending Christmas with us and we're happy to have have her. I can't wait, soon I get to harass her. Anyway I promised you guys that I'd post the pics from NY and here they are:

The Statue of Liberty

Jillian in Battery Park.

Jillian and I

Music Monday! Kassav!

Zouk La  Ce Sel Medicament Nou Ni



I grew up on this music, known as Zouk. This is Kassav.

Wednesday Update!

I'm back from NYC. My sister-in-law and my nephew are fine. My brother completely in love with them both and my dad now has a grandson. I'm not allowed to post pics of Braden but I will describe him as my very cute mini sumo wrestler.
 Will be back on later to update this post with pics as I'm heading out the door and realized that I hadn't set up this post and I just found my cord to my camera.

Music Monday! Kool and the gang Celebrate.

In honor of the birth my nephew, and Labor day!

People of Interest: Andrew Carnegie.

My aunt who's degree is in Human resources list this quote by Andrew Carnegie on her website :
"Take away my people, but leave my factories and soon grass will grow on the factory floors… Take away my factories, but leave my people and soon we will have new and better factories" 

Born in Scotland Andrew Carnegie was an immigrant who lived the American dream. He worked his way up from a factory worker in a bobbin factory to an industrialist. Then he became a philanthropist, giving a way most of his money.


If this man can make it in this world why can't we?

So I was listening to the radio.

First of all let me apologize for my late blog. I usually write them up the night before and schedule them but it didn't happen this time.

Like I said I was listening to the radio this sunday and heard this quote from Dwight L Moody. " Character is what you are in the dark."

That got me thinking, about writing and life. But for now on the life side I'll just say I'm taking a closer look at myself and the people around me.

On the writing side: So many times we see showing someones character as showing their personality when really that's just the window dressing. Personality is what everyone see's on the exterior. Beneath that lies the character.

Character is based on the decisions we make. Not the personality we mask it in. You know that saying "actions speak louder than words." That's character.

Character can be eroded, by lack of action, or the wrong decision. We can slowly create a villain by slowly eroding character with a series of decisions and masking them with their personality. So slowly that by the end of a book the reader is surprised and when they go back they can see it but only after we've led them to the end.

We can create a hero in the same way except his decision must be the tough ones the ones that determine his character.


So tell me, have you thought about character lately?

Music Monday! By Request, Shakira!

Yes Katie this one is for you.


I'm thinking Shaggy for next week. What do you think?

People of Interest: Sir V. S. Naipaul

In high school I was required to read  V.S. Naipaul's "A House for Mr. Biswas".  To me back then and now, the story of Mr. Biswas was the story of a man who's goal in life was to create a place and a space for himself. This story stayed at the back of my mind, hiding there for many years. Until, one day I was walking through a bookstore and happened across a copy of "The Mystic Masseur".

Which I thoroughly enjoyed. Why am I telling you all this? I wanted you to understand why I decided to pick Sir V.S. Naipaul for this Friday's post.

First of all I had no idea that he'd one the noble prize, or that he was knighted. I had no clue that "The Mystic Masseur" was made into a movie. I only knew that he was an Trinidadian novelist, whom I was compelled to read in high school. To me he was simply V.S. Naipaul, a West Indian Writer I've read and enjoyed.

I've been told!

I've been told by my five year old not to post any pictures of her on the internet. But one from the back couldn't hurt could it?

This is the Hubby walking in the girls for their first day of school. One of the many reasons I love him.
It's almost fall I'm back at work and the kids are back in school. For me it's a time to refocus and knuckle down. What does it mean to you?

Music Monday! It's a very Bond music monday.

I decided to put two of my favorite Bond theme songs today.

To start us off Tina Tuner's "Golden eye"



Jack White and Alicia Key's "Another Way to Die."


 

People of Interest: Queen Noor

A few years ago I purchased Queen Noor's memoirs which has graced my TBR pile for well a few years now. Just recently I finally felt in the mood to read non-fiction so I picked it up. Though I'm not far into it I'm already intrigued by this woman. Honestly I have been for a long time.

American born, Princeton educated Queen Noor gave up her citizenship to be married to a man years her senior. She lived in a country different for her own. Converted to the Muslim fate and now finds herself the Dowager Queen of Jordan.

Don't you find that interesting? I do.

Why I love Bond.

I was hankering for a good action movie the other day and realized I had Quantum Of Solace in my collection.
It got me to thinking: What is it that I like about Bond as a character.
He's ruthless yet suave.
Adaptable.
Sexy.
Wounded yet strong.
What I love about Bond is, he's complex not a a cardboard cutout. A man with a license to kill who does so, but still has heart enough to fall in love with a woman who betrays him.
By the way don't you love Daniel Craig as the new Bond?
Do you have anything to add? Please do.


So in other news: My babies are heading back to school. My youngest daughter just turned five. I would post pictures of her birthday at Animal Kingdom but I've been told in no uncertain terms that I'm not allowed to post any pictures of her. apparently she wasn't too happy about me posting a picture of her when she was having her chin stitched.

My eldest is going to be a fifth grader. Soon she'll be in middle school. It's hard to believe she'll be eleven in September.

Music Monday!

As promised. Heavy D!
If you can I suggest you get up and dance. Get that body moving. I'm back at work so you'll have to do it for me.

People of interest: Heavy D

So who would have thought that I would have followed up Christiane Amanpour with Heavy D. Well no one. I was watching reruns of Bones and low and behold there was Heavy D as Sid the manager and owner  and Bartender of the restaurant Brennan and Booth frequent.

Then I began to question where he was now. And I learned a few things.
Heavy D is: Jamaican ( Had no clue he was)
                  He has a reggae album out.
                  He was in "Cider House Rules"

I have fond memories of Heavy D. Especially of Heavy D and the Boyz, it takes me back to high school. I wonder if you can figure out who'll be featured on Music Mondays?
PS I'll be sticking to this schedule as much as possible. Music Mondays. Wednesday, will be my free for all post and Friday's will be my People of interest. Occasionally I'll link to a blog I follow so you can see what interests me and I'll take suggestions on any of these.

Inspiration!

So I attended RWA Nationals this year, for those of you who don't know it's the Romance Writers of America convention. Here's what I took away from it.

Always have a plan B. The conference was originally scheduled for the Gaylord Palms Opryland in Tennesse, due to a devastating flood  RWA was forced to move the conference in a short amount of time. The fact that they pulled it off was incredible. Though there was a complaint about the chicken for every meal. It could have been worse, we could have had no conference.
 
You have something worth contributing. This was discussed over breakfast one morning. As writers we tend to think we have nothing to contribute if we're not published, or let people treat us this way. The truth is we come from different backgrounds. We have degrees in different fields and have worked in those fields. The wealth of knowledge that we have, shouldn't be ignored just because someone isn't published.

Just because you're not published now it doesn't mean you won't ever be published. Writing is a process. That includes learning how to finish the book. How to revise the book. How to revise the book again. How to pitch. How to submit.  How to choose an agent, and if you can't find an agent, how to read a contract. It's about perseverance and the willingness to learn and to keep learning.

It's about having a base. Nora Roberts spoke of having friends. Friends who are willing to be there for you. I'll add to that family. they may not understand what you're doing but they support you.

Research. Whether it's an agent or an editor, a publishing house, or something for your story. Do the research.

Jayne Ann Krentz spoke of killing her career three times over. what she meant was think your decisions through. Don't be afraid to try something new. However you may want to do it under a new name if you've already got an established presence.

Music Monday!

I've decided to try something new. I always need a pick me up on Mondays so I've decided to make Mondays, drum roll please: Music Mondays.

I have to warn you my taste is pretty eclectic so brace yourself. You may find yourself listening to something you've never listened to before. Today we start of with Melissa Etheridge.

People of interest: Christiane Amanpour

There are people in this world who are truly interesting. Those that have impacted my life, without knowing about. As a child I remember watching Christiane Amanpour reporting from far off places, war torn countries. Because of her, and the images I had of her I formed the opinion that women can do anything.


She has been the epitome of professionalism. A woman of grace and courage and while I do not know her personally she has inspired me. When her family couldn't return to Iran they made a new life. When her sister decided journalism wasn't for her Christiane stepped and took her classes and became an accidental journalist.

She has left CNN to host This Week for ABC News and I wish her the best of luck.

Where I've been.

So. I'll never tell you guys when I'm going on vacation. Why? Because even though I know you're all  wonderful, there are those who monitor blogs, facebook and the like, for just that information. What that means is I was on vacation in the wilds of West Virginia.

My family made the twelve and a half hour drive to Charleston, WV in one piece and spent time with those near and dear to us. My godson was one of the bunch. So we headed to the Greenbrier where we had a relaxing few days at a really awesome house. I'm sad to say I can't find the cable to my camera but I will post pictures soon. I saw Bears and deer and trees galore. It was a peaceful vacation.

Some interesting things came out of that vacation. My godson loves nature shows so we watched a video on Stoats.

Ok so the other place I went to was RWA Nationals. Which I will post pics from though not many. It was a little overwhelming with two thousand people, but it was fun and informative. I'm so glad that I decided to attend in Orlando this year versus New york as my first conference.

And in keeping with my vow to let you guys see what interests me, Have a look at one of the blogs I follow. Punctuation Mark

My Website is up!

So I guess you guys noticed that some changes have been going on. My website is now up and running. Jaxadora Design   has done a wonderful job, she nailed it on the first try and has been really patient with me. She's also changed the look of the blog. Wink , wink.

I opted to keep my blog at blogspot instead of on the site itself. that way if something goes wrong with the website it doesn't go down. well that and the fact that you guys already know where to find me and really why make you break your habit. It takes way too long to train yourself into a new one.

So, that being said, what do you think?

Blogging and Family.

I'm a lurker.
Yes, I lurk on the blogs I follow. Occasionally I pop up and make a comment on something I find interesting but not always. Sometimes I come across something that's so thought provoking or beautiful that I can't comment. (See Holly's Blog).
The point is that more people than you expect actually read what you have to say or the pictures you post and appreciate what you've done. In the end the only thing they leave is a number on your counter or info on your analytics page.

That being said. It's been a rough week for myself and my family. My cousin has been gravely ill. He still is sick, but is getting better.
I can't imagine a world without my Eddiemundo. My little cousin who's six foot something. In my head he's stuck at three year old. Chubby and inquisitive. A sweet little rascal who turned into a man.
A man who knows his own mind. Who is steady, determined and focused. With a smile. Well, what a smile.
We love you Eddiemundo!

Fear of Failure. and the Fourth Of July.

Atychiphobia is defined as the irrational fair of failure.

To some extent I believe everyone suffers from this phobia. There are always moments of self doubt. everyone I know has had them.

I have vivid memories of my mother saying "Nothing beats a trial but a failure."  Don't let those moments of self doubt turn you into a person who never attempts anything in life. Don't let your fear paralyze you. And if for the moment you get stuck, find someone anyone that you trust and voice your fears. If you don't acknowledge them you don't know how to fight them.

Just a thought.  OK. On to where I've been.


Hope everyone is having a great summer. The kids and I are taking it  easy. Though the little one decided jump into the pool this weekend and ended up cutting her chin on the swim out. I mean what is a major holiday without a trip to the emergency from.

Except I didn't have to go to the emergency room. Thank God for After Hours Pediactrics and Dr Ballelos, who patched her up.  Can't tell you how grateful I am to them. Especially since this isn't the first time we've been there. That's when she'd jumped off couch and broke her Elbow. They were excellent then too.

Here she is wearing my shades while we wait for her chin to numb.

Anyway hope you guys have a great summer!

Dreams.

I fell asleep one night and got a really clear picture of my Grandmother sitting in her favorite green Adirondack chair on her porch. With her gray streaked, thinning hair rolled into a bun. Her loose house dress on. Her brown all seeing eyes, on the sea.



It occurred to me that she'd been haunting me for a while. Gradually building up and solidifying her presence. Over time when the random voice would sound inside my head. It was her voice. When out of my mouth would come her sayings.

Now I see her clearly. So clearly in fact that when her mouth moves I can hear her voice. That is, when she talks. You see my grandmother was a listener.

She listened more than she ever spoke. She watched all those around her with an eagle, if kind eye. The weight of it fell upon you only when she wished it. She saw deeper than anyone ever wanted to admit. When she spoke more often than not, we had to listen.

It hurt more often than not, that truth. She wrapped it in her sayings, her parables. In the end they were just that, truth.

Be still. Be quiet. Listen.

This suits my mood today!

Christina Dodd's Top ten points of wisdom.

Did you know she's been writing for twenty years?
http://christinadodd.com/blog/

Character development.

I've been thinking of character development recently.
When I start a book it's most often a scene that comes to me first. Sometimes that scene is used and sometimes it's not. But the characters in that scene often have secrets, and often I don't know what those secrets are until page 100 or 200. The important question for to ask is then "Why?".

You ask that question like a three year-old would ask it. You ask it until you've gotten down to the deepest darkest secrets and still sometimes your characters have the ability to surprise you.

Characters are just like real people they are not meant to be cardboard cutouts, or stereotypes. You want the reader to identify with them, and if not, then to understand what drives them, what makes them tic.

Every character has a facade they present to the world. It's your job as the author, to make your reader to want to see below the surface. By offering tidbits of information, whether it be an abnormal response to the physical or a moment of illogical fear.

So, I ask you now, who is your favorite character?

Memorial Day!

Today we remember all of those who fell during war. Those who are brave and willing to stand in the service of this country.

The people we carry.

I have my mother's hands, my grandmothers feet and I look my like my youngest aunt.
I quote my grandmother often. If I need guidance I pick up the phone and call one of my many aunts.
My life is shaped by the actions of my family, my friends and myself.
My daughters frequently remind me of my mother. They are determined and feisty.

I get my drive, my ability to dream, my determination from both my father and my mother.
It's trickled down through our family.
My grandmother's determination that all of her children would have an education, that they would always present themselves appropriately.

I hope that in the end I have the strength of my mother's hands, the perseverance of my grandmother's feet and the grace of my aunts.

Happiness!

Happiness, is seeing someone you love truly happy. Congratulations to my baby brother numero uno on his marriage! Mommy would be proud.

Friends!

Happy Mothers Day!

Well, it's that time of the year again.

Happy Mother's Day! 

Just remember, If mommy isn't happy, nobody's happy!

Johhny Cash!

I hadn't heard this song in such a long time and then I saw the commercial for Tom Clancy's latest splinter cell game and I fell in love with Johnny Cash all over again.

Stress!

So I've been to the dentist. I'm attempting to get my werewolf short ready for submission, which means writing the dreaded synopsis and editing the darn thing. Rewriting Psychokinesis, dealing with allergies and a car that has worked fine so far but might not like me at all. Did I mention that I work part-time at a job that might just be full time in terms of the energy I put out.

Then there was making sure that my daughter did her science project and not take over. I also dislike the feeling that you get from schools and other parents. If you let your child produce something that a ten-year old would produce then you're not doing your job apparently. One must take over from the child and improve upon the product which means the end product will not resemble what the child intended.

I thought the whole purpose of Elementary school was to allow children to explore and grow. To learn how to complete projects on their own. Alas this is not the case. However, like I told my daughter I'm not the one in school the grades are not mine. Whatever she earns from putting the hard work and time are hers and hers alone.

Ok. Off my soap box now. But seriously in life your parents are responsible for the choices you make, your triumphs or your failures. the truth is you have to learn from your mistakes in order to make the right choices and if they never let you face those on your own are'nt they doing you a disservice?

I recently had someone say to me that they felt as if they had cheer and do a handstand when a particular intern walked in to work. I'm sorry but is this the way we're supposed to raise kids now?


Get dressed, show up, do the best you can do. If you need help ask for it. If no one can help you, find a way to figure it out. Don't expect people to pat you on the head because you showed up, it what you're supposed to do.

Okay seriously off the soap box now.

I'll leave you with the image of my next door neighbor and I sitting on a swing, both in a pair of shorts and t-shirts. Singing at the top of our lungs to Queens "Bohemian Rhapsody." Which made her husband head inside and the dogs look at us funny. At least they didn't howl.

The Easter Bunny is real isn't he?

Pics my friends send me.

Well Hell!

From deep in my writing cave (which is really my kitchen table-cum-desk-cum breakfast bar).

I'm hard at work and deep in self doubt. Most people have no idea just what it takes to write a novel. The plotting the research. The actual putting of words together so that they not only make sense but convey emotion, description and move the story along. Don't get me started on character development.

But as I sit here completely rewriting Psychokinesis I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. My wrist ache my eyes beg for mercy but Darcelle and Caden are now characters that people can relate too. The story richer and fuller and making a hell of  a lot more sense.So back to the grindstone go I.

Here are a few post I've enjoyed in the last few days.

I found this one through Janet Reid. This is Myra McEntire
http://writingfinally.blogspot.com/2010/03/dont-listen-to-me.html

Then there was Nathan Bransford explaining what was wrong with me. Just in case you're wondering I lack confidence.

And I do so love a man in uniform. Find an interview of one here at Dancing Branflakes

Birthday Brunch!

It's that time of the year again. I celebrated my 31st birthday on Friday. A friend of mine is hosting my birthday brunch this year. I know for the past three years I've only done brunches but really I hate having to fight traffic. Besides the hubby cooked steaks an shrimp, handed me a glass of wine and we watched the sunset from out back porch. So off I go today to spend time with good friends and family.

Friend Pimpage!

 

Introducing my friend and author K.C. Burn.

I've been writing for what feels like my whole life. I'm a sucker for a happy ending (get your mind out of the gutters!) so it's been romance almost all the way. Recently moved from Canada to Florida with my husband and cats, and shortly thereafter discovered a love of writing gay romance—the hotter the better. Who knew?

MIA Case Files: Wolfsbane 

Werewolves are coming through an open portal and one of them wants Adam Farelli.  Agent Lachlan Carmichael can't let that happen, even if it means stepping out of the closet for the town's sexiest screw-up.

K.C. Burn will be guest blogging at Naughty Author Chicks on the Sunday March the 28th.

Babylon!

Here's Wikipedia's definition of Babylon

I most frequently heard the police being referred to as Babylon growing up by the Rastafarian's. But that's not what I'm referring to right now. I'm referring to Babylon as a crisis.

Funny enough. I've been through many of these. I can handle it even though it doesn't feel like it just now. I'm still writing though it has slowed to a trickle. I leave you with this.

Hi!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What am I doing right now? Taking a brief break from working on Psychokinesis. :-)
 So here's what playing on my I-pod. Ojos asi by Shakira. It's the first song I ever heard from her.



Back to work

Some people!

My commentary on "Crab in a Barrel Mentality"

Some people aren't happy unless they're number one.
Some people like you under their thumb.
Some people like you kept dumb.
Some people will always let you down. 
Some people will always pull you down.
Some people only come around when they see you down.
Just be careful that you don't become some people.

One foot in front of the other.

Technically I'm not a stay at home mom. I work part-time outside of the home. But I was for a long while. It's different being at home. It can be isolated and isolating. People assume you have time you don't have, that it's luxurious. And when you decide to emerge from your cocoon sometimes people treat you as if your brain has turned to mush.

I have a friend that is staying at home for them it is a choice of affordable child care and not being able to work due to one person's schedule. I've been poking this individual so that they won't feel the same way I did when I emerged from my cocoon.

I felt as if no one took me seriously. That I hadn't done anything with my time. The truth is I have raised and continue to raise two wonderful girls but I hadn't taken an classes nothing to keep me current.Which in the outside world didn't make me valuable to employers. And there was fear. Fear of competing with younger more savvy  individuals. Fear of not measuring up.

The truth is I need to work part time. I have to be there for my kids. I have to be there for my husband.

I did start writing three years ago. I found my voice. I have a goal. All human beings need a goal. Something to look forward to. We get bogged down in the everyday especially when you stay at home your entire focus becomes about what is going on with that little being you're taking care of.

That's not wrong. It's a good thing.

But eventually they go to school. They need you in different ways. And you as a person need to learn and grow as well. Because eventually they leave the nest. They become adults who hopefully have become self sufficient and if you haven't had a goal in mind, you might just end up lost. Unless you're an adventurous soul who wants to find a new reason for being, and wants to have fun in the process of doing so.

I guess what I'm saying is don't take yourself for granted. Your family needs you and you need you too. Sometimes it might seem like an up hill battle. Just put on foot in front of the other and keep walking. Because sometimes it's just a matter of buying that book that interest you or taking time out to attend a lecture or even just taking five minutes for yourself. It's not selfish it's looking after you so you can look after everybody else.

Remember one foot in front of the other and you can achieve anything.

January is almost over!

January is almost over. Already the race to the finish has begun. It seems as if every time I blink another day is done.
Today one of my co workers reminded me of a childhood favorite movie. Labyrinth.
Ah yes David Bowie as the goblin king.

Meet Savannah Stuart!

Miami Heat by Savannah Stuart is now available from Loose Id!

What’s it about?
When Madison Dubois witnesses a terrible crime, she goes to the only place she knows she'll be safe, Detective Rafe Jackson's house. Rafe has been in love with Madison Dubois for longer than he cares to admit. Unfortunately for him, she views him as a big brother. When she shows up on his doorstep terrified for her life, he has no choice but to keep her safe. Undeniable sparks fly when they're forced to share a roof but unless he can keep her alive, their relationship might not have a chance to even start.

Click here for purchase info: http://alturl.com/8sba

Click here: http://alturl.com/ejnk or here: http://alturl.com/o2sd for CONTEST info. And feel free to re-tweet or blog the contest information!

To learn more about Savannah, visit her website: www.savannahstuart.com

Part of my soundtrack to Psychokinesis.

I'm rewriting Psycokenesis. It took me a while but I'm on a roll. Here's a taste of the soundtrack I work to.
 The lyrics to this song actually encompass what I'm trying to show in my characters.

All the right friends in all the right places
So yeah, we're going down
They've got
All the right moves in all the right faces
So yeah, we're going down

Let's paint the picture
Of the perfect place
They've got it better then when anyone's told ya
They'll be the King of Hearts, and your the Queen of Spades
Then we'll fight for you like we were your soldiers

I know we've got it good
But they've got it made
And the grass is getting greener each day
I know things are looking up, but soon they'll take us down
Before anybody's knowing our name

They've got...

All the right friends in all the right places
So yeah, we're going down
They've got
All the right moves in all the right faces
So yeah, we're going down

They say
Everybody knows, everybody knows where we're going
Yeah, we're going down
They say
Everybody knows, everybody knows where we're going
Yeah, we're going down

Do you think I'm special?
Do you think I'm nice?
Am I bright enough to shine in your spaces?
Between the noise you hear, and the sounds you like
Are we just sinking the ocean of faces?
It can't be possible... the rain can fall
Only when it's over our heads.
The sun is shining everyday, but it's far away.
Over the world that's dead.

They've got, they've got...

All the right friends in all the right places
So yeah, we're going down
They've got
All the right moves in all the right faces
So yeah, we're going down
[Repeat]

They say
Everybody knows, everybody knows where we're going
Yeah, we're going down
They say
Everybody knows, everybody knows where we're going
Yeah, we're going down

It don't matter what you see
I know I could never be
Someone that'll look like you.
It don't matter what you say
I know I could never fake
Someone that could sound like you.

All the right friends in all the right places
So yeah, we're going down
They've got
All the right moves in all the right faces
So yeah, we're going down
[Repeat]

They say
Everybody knows, everybody knows where we're going
Yeah, we're going down
They say
Everybody knows, everybody knows where we're going
Yeah, we're going down

Yeah, we're going down [repeat x2]

All the right moves... heeey
Yeah we're going down
They say
All the right moves... heeey
Yeah we're going down

Introducing, Author Jax Cassidy!

Release date: January 10, 2010
Publisher:    Amber Heat

ISBN-13: 978-1-60272-627-7 (Electronic) 
*Heat warning: erotic, explicit sex scenes, language

For Sage, attending the Parisian sex club, Plaisirs Sombres, was the ultimate fantasy. So when the conservative gallery assistant is cloaked behind the velvet mask, she never expected to be the object of the club owner's desire. Spurred on by D.S. Gregoire's erotic and sensual brush strokes of the exclusive club, she gives into a brief liaison that leaves her breathless and wanting.

For Damien, known to the art world as D.S. Gregoire, his art has always been an adrenaline rush. But when an exotic and mysteriously uninhibited 'sex club virgin' enters his establishment, he is willing to break his club rules for another taste of the dark pleasures she brings him.
 

Author Bio:
Jax Cassidy followed her dreams to Paris, then Hollywood to pursue a film career but managed to fall in love with penning sexy romances and happy endings—finding Mr. Right was just an added bonus. She writes contemporary, paranormal, and multi-ethnic romances and is Co-Founder of Romance Divas, and award winning writer’s website and discussion forum. Jax is also known as one-half of the retired writing team of Cassidy Kent.
     

For more information on Jax, please visit her online at www.jaxcassidy.com or www.jaxadora.blogspot.com

Resolution redux!

 It occurred to me that my New Years resolutions had a lot to do being true to myself. So I'm giving the same advice to you guys.
PS. thanks so much for reading this blog.