Ramblings of a Writer

Following my Dreams

2011-08-15T07:16:00.000-06:00

For as long as I can remember, I've had two dreams: publish a novel and attend law school. Writing had been much easier to incorporate into my life because I could still do it with my job. Law school, on the other hand, seemed to be an impossible dream.

Until now.

In April I found out I'd been accepted to law school. Like most educational programs, law school is likened to a full-time job. In fact, most schools discourage students from working while attending law school. So I've quit my job and have decided that writing (and this blog) will need to be put temporarily onto my back-burner. When life settles down a bit and I have more time, I plan on writing again.

Thank you for all of your thoughtful comments these past couple of years. If you'd still like to follow my adventures (of law school instead of writing), please visit my new blog at:

http://the1lbalancingact.blogspot.com/

Weak vs. Strong

2011-03-29T06:45:00.001-06:00

I'm tired of female characters who make stupid decisions. Like going out at night, alone, when you know someone's been stalking you for weeks. I mean, really? Even if it's a technique to build suspense, I don't like it. My friend and crit partner refers to this as the BSS, or the Bella Swan Syndrome.

I prefer kick-ass female protagonists (picture Buffy or Katniss). Aren't those the models we want for teenage girls, ones who stand up for their beliefs and protect their friends and family? Yet, I keep reading YA books with female characters that make me want to hurl my Kindle across the room (don't worry, I love my Kindle too much to actually follow through with it).

As a writer, my characters don't start off strong. They have struggles. They're naive. They're unsure of themselves. But they grow into better versions of themselves as they face their fears and self-doubt. These are the kinds of protagonists I want to read about.

But maybe that's just me. What about you? What kinds of characters do you prefer to read or write?

The Hell I'd Like to Call Revision

2011-03-21T06:45:00.005-06:00

I'm embarrassed to admit this: I don't know how to revise. I'm an English teacher. I encourage my students to revise all the time. So what's wrong with ME? Why am I struggling so hard to revise my novel and get it ready for submission this summer?

I don't think this makes me a terrible English teacher. I can help my students revise essays, especially the persuasive ones that the state and district seem so fond of using in writing assessments. But my novel? My baby? It's so hard! (And yes, I know I'm on the verge of whining. I can't help it!)

After spending an entire week feeling overwhelmed, I received an email that helped me see the light at the end of my revision tunnel. A couple of months ago I signed up for the Writer's Boot Camp at WIFYR (Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers). The class will be taught by Ann Cannon, author of several books including The Loser's Guide to Life and Love. She sent a welcome letter yesterday that gave me nearly three pages worth of questions to think about during the revision process. Thank you, Ann! This was exactly what I needed. I have about three months to whip my baby into shape because 55 pages will be read by Ann and nine other strangers (I cringe just thinking about it!).

But now I have direction, and I intend to approach each question one step at a time. I'd love to hear any suggestions about how you tackle revision.

Does anyone have any sage advice about revision? Tricks that have worked well for you? Website links of golden information?

Am I a Literary Snob?

2011-03-15T09:10:00.000-06:00

I've heard people say that being a writer takes away the joy they used to have as a reader. I thought, No! That will never happen to me! I love books too much. I never cared about whether or not the book I was reading would win any awards; I only wanted a good story that kept me turning the pages.

Lately, though, I've had a harder time finding books that I enjoy. I don't focus only on an engrossing story. I look at the way the writer has crafted it. And then I express my frustration to my critique partner and wonder if she sees the same flaws I see!

I don't think this is necessarily a bad thing. It opens me up to recognizing the same kinds of flaws in my own writing, to see what I need to avoid doing. There's a reason why people recommend reading widely if you're going to be a writer. On the positive side, when I do find a book that I enjoy, I can look at it from a writer's perspective to see how the author succeeded with his or her craft.

Do you look at books differently now that you're a writer? Is it a positive or a negative experience for you?

Books, Books, Books

2011-02-06T06:02:00.001-07:00

I was at the doctor's office the other day for a routine physical exam. Although the doctor goes to church with my parents, I'd never met him before. Like all new doctors, he asked me questions to get to know me, probably to help me feel at ease in his office.

I had a book with me--which I'm never without in a doctor's office because of all the waiting and waiting and waiting--so it sparked some conversation. Okay, a lot of conversation. (I now know that half of his kids like to read, the others don't, his wife reads, but he reads nothing more than scientific journals. But I digress.) He asked me what I do when I'm not reading. My response? I write.

The truth is ... books are a huge part of my life. I'm either reading them, writing them, or teaching them. I can't image life without them, and I've passed on my love of reading to my son. It makes me proud to see his eyes light up when he talks about a book. And the great part? It happens over and over again each time he submerges himself in a new book. I hope he never loses his enthusiasm for reading.

I consider myself lucky that my parents supported my love of reading too. Every summer or Christmas vacation, my mom took me to the library, and I'd come home with stacks of books. And even better, my family provided me the means to buy a Kindle for my birthday.

Yes, I own a Kindle. That doesn't mean I won't ever buy a regular book again (my Kindle will NOT be joining me in a bubble bath!). But I like the ease of finding a good book to read without having to worry about shipping or waiting for my holds to come in at the library. Even better: my suitcase will be tons lighter the next time I travel.

I know there are those who fear what eBooks may do to the publishing industry. But I think anything that makes reading accessible to more people is a good thing. I've even had students bring their Kindles or Nooks to class during independent reading. eBooks are just one more way to enjoy reading.

What about you? Do you have an eReader? Why or why not? And most important, what books should I buy for my Kindle? :)

Becoming a Writer (and the Giveaway Winner!)

2011-01-25T06:00:00.001-07:00

I've made a breakthrough in my life as a writer. A couple of weeks ago, I confidently stood in front of a group of people and called myself a writer. To many, that may not seem like a big deal. Yet, to me, it was a huge moment.

I'm not a new writer. I remember as a child writing stories, like the modern version of Rumpelstiltskin starring Kirk Cameron (it was the 80s after all) that my friends and I performed in front of the neighbors. Or the ABC Christmas story I wrote for my parents that my sister unearthed from boxes of old school work and shared with our family on Christmas Eve. Or the short story I bravely submitted in 6th grade to a local magazine and received my first rejection (I wish I still had this!).

But having the courage to follow through on my dream of writing a full-length novel was new. Sadly, I lost the first chapter I wrote when my laptop was stolen over two years ago, but that didn't stop me. I started again, and a little over a year ago, I finished the first draft of my first novel. Since then, I have started a second novel and completed the first draft of my third. Now I'm working on revisions on my third novel.

I've moved beyond dipping my toes into the pool of writing and have submerged myself entirely. So, after a year of blogging, I've decided to drop "novice" from my title. I hope you continue to follow me along my journey!

And now, the winner of my 1st Blogoversary Giveaway (drum roll, please):

Andria from My Meandering Musings

Congratulations!

Have You Done It Yet?

2011-01-21T10:19:00.000-07:00

Today is your last chance to win a $15 Amazon gift card for my 1st Blogoversary Giveway. Go here to enter and to view the rules.

The contest ends tonight at 10pm MST. Good luck!

The Ever Elusive Voice

2011-01-17T09:24:00.000-07:00

Recently I read Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins. I'd read a lot good reviews about it, so I was excited to read it. From page one, I was hooked. It made me wonder, what made it so fantastic? I reread the first page and realized it was one important thing: the voice.

In the past year, I've been to several writing conferences. Time and again, agents and authors mention the importance of having a good voice. Yet they admit that they can't define voice; they just know it when they see it. I agree. It's the books with an awesome voice that keep me reading into the wee hours of the morning.

But as a writer, the term "voice" terrifies me. I want my characters' voices to shine on the page. I want them to be original. I want people to care about them. Yet I fear that I can't do it. I'm not sure that voice can be taught. But what if it can't be learned either?

What do you think? Can voice be learned? How? Does the term "voice" keep you up late at night like it does to me?

Oh, and don't forget to sign up for my $15 Amazon gift card giveaway here. It ends on Friday, January 21, at 10pm EST.

1st Blogoversary Giveway

2011-01-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

One year ago I decided to embark on a new journey in the blogosphere. I began with trepidation. Who would be interested in hearing what I had to say? When my followers rose above 100, I was shocked, yet delighted.

The best part was the writing community that I found. There are so many writers who understand what I'm feeling and support me in my efforts. I couldn't have survived an entire year as a blogger (or a writer) without you. Thank you!!!

Help celebrate my 1st blogoversary by participating in my giveaway! The winner will receive a $15 Amazon gift card. Please complete the form below to enter. You must be a follower and at least 13 years old. The contest will end at 10pm (MST) on Friday, January 21, 2011.

Thanks for supporting my blog!

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The Ride of My Life -- Welcome 2011

2011-01-05T06:30:00.001-07:00

I anticipate that 2011 will be a roller coaster year: one of many ups and downs. But to fully appreciate the ups, I must have downs, right? My first goal is to keep a positive attitude about whatever the Universe brings my way.

Here are my writing goals for 2011:

1. Revise BENEATH THE SURFACE: This is my 3rd YA manuscript, but this will be the first one that I'm attempting to do a full revision. Right now it's full of holes and inconsistencies. I'm excited to see what the final version will look like.

2. Finish OVER THE EDGE: I hit writer's block with this novel during the early part of last summer. My goal is to rewrite what I already have written to see if I can get back into the story again. I really liked my premise and the characters, yet I buried myself in self-doubt.

3. Submit BENEATH THE SURFACE: This is the goal that scares me the most because I know how tough it is to secure an agent. But I truly look forward to my first rejection letter because it will be proof that I'm finally on my way toward reaching my lifelong goal of being a published author.

Unlike last year, I didn't include any daily writing goals. My life isn't that predictable and I rarely met last year's goals. This year, I want attainable goals. I certainly don't need any additional reasons for self-doubt.

What are your writing goals for 2011? Anything scary but exciting like mine?

Goodbye 2010

2010-12-31T17:12:00.000-07:00

As December 2010 comes to a close, I thought the best way to reflect on the past year would be to create a Wordle of my 2010 blog. You can view it easier if you click on it. I love how my three biggest words are time, summer, and writing! I wonder what that says about me?

I wish everyone a Happy New Year!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T08:43:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I've included a list of the things I'm thankful for as a writer.

I'm thankful for:

The time to write (no matter how minuscule it seems on some days);
My son who has written 1,001 words of his first novel and has developed a love of writing;
My writing friend (and my BFF) who lets me read her writing and gives me hope that I can one day write as well as she does;
My online critique friends who keep letting me send them my writing;
Published authors who write amazing stories and provide me with wonderful mentor texts;
My friends in the blogosphere who inspire me on a daily basis; and
The desire to write, even on the days when I'm filled with self-doubt.

I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving!

NaNoWriMo

2010-10-16T15:27:00.002-06:00

I challenge you all to participate in November's NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month): 30 days, 50,000 words, and a whole lot of fun! If you've ever thought about writing a novel, here's your chance. And hold back those excuses -- I'm a single mom working two jobs, and if I can still find the time, so can you!

Join here and add me as one of your Writing Buddies!

Check out what John Green (Looking for Alaska, An Abundance of Katherines, Paper Towns) has to say about NaNoWriMo:

Circle of Friends Blogger Award

2010-08-09T08:00:00.002-06:00

I received this wonderful award from Catherine A. Winn at The Writing Room. Thanks Catherine! My job is to pass it on to five other bloggers.

Andria at My Meandering Musings

Renae at The Write Groove

Debbie at Writing Soup

Jessie at Read Between the Lines

Michelle at Michelle Teacress

Juggling Time

2010-08-05T13:43:00.008-06:00

You may or may not have noticed, but I've been absent from my blog (and other blogs) for most of the summer. I had grandiose visions of being a full-time writer and dedicating my summer to finishing my novel.

But, like some well-thought out plans, my vision failed rather quickly. I discovered that I work better on a tight, rigid schedule. With too much free time (like my summer as a teacher out of school), I tend to fill in the gaps with non-work: reading, playing with my kids, going to movies, etc. It surely didn't leave me enough time to write. In my mind, I was on vacation (loosely translated, no work!). Then it became easier and easier to push writing to my "back-burner."

Now, three weeks before I have to return back to school, I can't imagine where the time went. Did I write every day? No. Did I finish the first draft of my novel? No. Did I stay caught up on blogging? No.

But I can say that I had an enjoyable summer. Three months ago, my kids and I made a list of the top 50 things we wanted to do this summer. We didn't accomplish everything, but we did manage to hit 24 activities on the list. Not too bad, I think.

What I realized this summer is that I tend to accomplish more when I have less time. Surprising, isn't it? I think I prioritize better when there's less time. I'm looking forward to getting back into a rigid schedule again, one that includes time to write.

What about you? Did you achieve all that you wanted this summer?

Once Upon a Read-a-Thon Begins Today!

2010-07-12T08:58:00.001-06:00

Get ready ... Get set ... Start reading!

Today is the first day in a three day read-a-thon, sponsored by Angela at The Reading Angel. You can join in the festivities from her blog. Each day from July 12 to July 14, there will be mini-activities that you can complete (and there are PRIZES!).

These are the books on my list to read:

A Blue So Dark by Holly Schindler

Glimpse by Carol Lynch Williams

The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe

So grab your own books and start reading! What's the next book you're going to read?

Developing Character

2010-07-06T12:42:00.000-06:00

I admit that I don't spend a lot of time before I start writing a manuscript to outline my plot, sketch my characters, or create an emotional arc. Instead, I write and let the characters develop themselves and the plot.

I know that there isn't only one right way to be a writer, but here's some advice that I learned about character development from published authors at the Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers conference:

All characters--heroes, villains, and secondary/tertiary characters--need to have strengths and weaknesses. (Alane Ferguson)
As characters matter more to each other, they matter more to the reader. (Brandon Mull)
Make sure secondary characters aren't "cardboard"--especially parents and young children. (Sara Zarr)
Avoid stereotypical characters. Each character must be "fresh." (Alane Ferguson)
Characters need to relate to others, be interesting, and be likeable. (Brandon Mull)
Be personally involved. Be passionate about your characters and connect on deeper levels. (Sara Zarr)

What about you? Is there any other advice about developing characters that you can add, either with your own experience or from conferences you've attended?

Gateway Books

2010-06-30T06:00:00.025-06:00

In celebration of today's release of Eclipse, I want to praise the Twilight saga. Now, this is not meant to be a forum to debate Stephenie Meyer's writing skills (we all know there are passionate feelings on both sides of the spectrum). Instead, I want to focus on her books from the viewpoint of a high school English teacher.

As writers, it's easy for us to question why some books get published, especially when we feel adamant that we are better writers. But as an English teacher, I've learned to appreciate any book that my students read. My job is to get my students to read. And to enjoy reading. If it means they read a Twilight novel rather than Shakespeare, I'm okay with that. Because at least they're reading.

We've all heard the term "gateway drugs." (If not, Dictionary.com defines it here.) But have you ever heard of gateway books? These are the books that turn non-readers into readers. I see that happen every school year.

That's why I put every book I buy (or win in a contest or obtain as a donation) on my classroom shelf. Because I never know which book will be the next gateway book for my students. If I can help at least one non-reader become a reader, I'll feel like I've done my job.

Let's be realistic as writers. We need readers. How else can we make a living as writers? I applaud those writers, the ones like Stephenie Meyer, who can spin a great story and create energetic teen readers.

Here's my question to you: What were your gateway books? Which ones helped you to become readers and/or writers?

Why Do You Write?

2010-06-22T10:04:00.005-06:00

I spent the past week at the Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers conference (WIFYR). It put me on a rollercoaster of emotions. Being around so many fabulous published and pre-published authors made me feel inferior at times.

Several presenters asked the following question: Why do you write? I thought it would be interesting to find out why everyone writes. I admit this is somewhat selfish of me because I really could use the inspiration right now (but I doubt I'm the only one who could be lifted up from other people's examples).

Here's my answer to the question: Why do you write? I write because:

I have stories to tell.
I like the sense of accomplishment I feel after finishing a first draft.
It's a rush of excitement when characters or scenes write themselves.
When I'm not writing, I can't stop thinking about my characters.
Even though it's hard at times, I really enjoy writing.

So now it's your turn: Why do you write?

Attack of the Inner Editor

2010-06-08T12:48:00.000-06:00

I have a very strong inner editor. In arm wrestles, she always wins. What does this mean for my writing? Sometimes it takes hours for me to write a chapter.

I envy those who can sit at their computer and just write. Even when they know it's not perfect and it will ultimately need some serious revision.

I can't do that. I've tried, trust me. But I can't stop myself from going back to reread and rewrite. In fact, before each writing session, I review the previous chapter and rewrite words, sentences, even entire paragraphs. I suffer from a bad case of perfectionism.

In her book Bird by Bird, Anne Lamott spends one chapter championing bad first drafts and another chapter denouncing perfectionism. She states, "Perfectionism is the voice of the oppressor, the enemy of the people. It will keep you cramped and insane your whole life, and it is the main obstacle between you and a shitty first draft" (28). She continues, "Perfectionism will ruin your writing, blocking inventiveness and playfulness and life force ... Perfectionism means that you try desperately not to leave so much mess to clean up. But clutter and mess show that life is being lived" (28).

Do you agree with Anne Lamott? What do you do to restrain your own inner editor?

Point of View Preferences

2010-06-04T06:00:00.001-06:00

I never really spend time considering the point of view of my manuscripts. I just write whatever feels "right" as I begin my story. That means that my first manuscript is in first person, while my current WIP is in third person.

Now, I'm wondering if I should be less arbitrary with my point of view decision. Fifty pages into my current WIP, I'm considering a change to first person, like my first novel. I just don't think third person is working well, especially since a major conflict of my story is my main character's mental illness. In a first person point of view, I think I'll be able to better capture her inner turmoil.

Before I take the time to transform my entire WIP into first person, I'd like a second opinion from my wonderful blogging community. What do you think?

Do you have any POV preferences? How do you choose what POV to use? Are there any POV's that you dislike as a reader? As a writer?

Contest Winner!!!

2010-06-01T06:00:00.003-06:00

Thanks for everyone who participated in my 100 Follower Contest!

I've been busily preparing for the end of the school year, and this week is no exception (final grades, yearbook stomp, graduation, etc.). Consequently, my blogging has been pushed to the back of my mind. I apologize for my absence!

But I promise to return in full force next week. Somehow I'll figure out how to balance blogging with my writing time. I'm so excited to begin writing full-time!

OK, here's what you've been waiting for: the winner of the 100 Followers Contest! I used Random.org to generate my winner from the comments. And the winner of a $20 Barnes and Noble gift card goes to ...

Congratulations to #15 ...

Amanda

Thanks again for participating! Have a great week!

Reading Like a Writer

2010-05-24T06:00:00.002-06:00

I've noticed a subtle change lately in the way I read. I've always been a voracious reader; it's not unusual for me to finish 2-3 books in a weekend. But now, I read differently. I pay attention to the language used, I analyze the characters, and I critique the plot. Who knew writing would interfere with my love of reading? Now, I'm not saying it's a bad thing. It's just different.

Does it make me a better writer? Definitely. Whenever I give my high school students a new writing assignment, I provide them with models. Reading good books provides the same benefits. We can learn from the experts. Earnest Gaines, author of A Lesson before Dying, provides writers with sage advice: "The Six Golden Rules of Writing: Read, read, read, and write, write, write."

But what about poorly written books? Is there a benefit in reading them too? Stephen King, in his book On Writing, believes that "bad books have more to teach than good ones." When we can identify the weaknesses in a poorly written book, then we can find out what to avoid or to improve in our own writing.

What do you think? Is reading beneficial? Would you spend your time reading "bad books" too? How has reading affected your own writing?

Be sure to comment on my 100 Follower Contest here. It ends at midnight (MST) on May 31st.

Interview: Author Sara Zarr

2010-05-20T06:00:00.003-06:00

In a single week, I got not one, but two opportunities to meet Sara Zarr, a young adult author who writes realistic fiction. She has published three novels: Story of a Girl, Sweethearts, and Once Was Lost.

First, Sara spoke to a group of teachers from my school district. She was very personable and willing to answer any questions about her books, her life, and her writing/publishing experience. Sara explained she writes realistic fiction because she believes that the genre allows teens to make connections to the characters in ways that help them adjust to their own adolescent experience.

The second time I met her was when she signed a book for me at the Children's Book Festival at the Provo Library, an event celebrating reading and Utah children and young adult authors.

Out of the kindness of her heart (and a little bit of Leatherby's ice cream), she agreed to do an interview on my blog! Check out the interview below:

How would you describe your most recent novel in 140 characters or less?

Fourteen days of youth group, mini-trucks, record heat, local news, and crime in a small town!

What was the hardest part of becoming a published author?

The hardest part on the journey was having patience and faith that it would eventually happen. Once I arrived, the hardest part was realizing there is no such thing as arrival. It's just forging ahead on the same path, passing through different cities and countrysides with different companions... Like a lot of people, I thought being published would change my fundamental identity and writing would magically be easy and I'd never be insecure again. Haha!

What was the most rewarding part?

Knowing that something I wrote moved other people and mattered to them, that I made a connection.

What advice do you have for aspiring writers?

Be patient and diligent. Don't fret over how much talent you may or may not have. Work hard and put your all into making your writing the best it can be. If you're spending more time researching markets and reading agent blogs than you are writing, change that.

If you could have lunch with any author, dead or alive, who would it be? Why?

Oh, I'm sure my answer would change every minute. There is no ultimate person for me. Right now I'm in a Wallace Stegner phase and would love to resurrect him for a conversation. He just really seems to understand himself as a writer, and goes deep into that.

* * *

Thank you, Sara, for answering my questions! I will be in her morning workshop at the Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers conference this summer. Although I'm intimidated to share my own writing with this award-winning author, I can't wait to learn from her!

BLOGFEST: Let's Talk

2010-05-18T06:00:00.006-06:00

It's been awhile since I've participated in a blogfest, so I've decided to jump back in and participate in the Let's Talk blogfest, hosted by Roni Griffin at Fiction Groupie.

Below is an excerpt from AGAIN, my YA paranormal. Enjoy!

[Excerpt has been removed to protect my work.]

My First Contest

2010-05-17T19:55:00.000-06:00

The most amazing thing happened on Friday: exactly four months after my first post, I hit 100 followers! (Thank you Kaylie for being #100!) I never imagined that so many people would be interested in my blog, especially within such a short time frame.

To thank everyone for reading and commenting on my blog, I'm hosting a 100 Followers Contest. Based on posts from across the blogosphere, it seems that people prefer simple contests. Since I, too, like to keep it simple, my rules will be short:

1. You must be a follower to enter the contest.
2. You must enter a comment to this post. Share with us a piece of writing advice that you've learned.

Although I'm not requiring that you post this contest on your blog, I'd appreciate it if you'd spread the word.

Entries will be accepted until midnight (MST) on May 31st. I will use Random.org to choose one winning comment. The winner will receive a $20 gift card from Barnes and Noble.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Page-a-Day Challenge

2010-05-15T08:59:00.000-06:00

To jump-start my summer plans of being a full-time writer, I have joined forces with other bloggers to complete a Page-a-Day Challenge. Initiated by Weronika Janczuk, the month-long challenge from May 15 to June 15 encourages writers to write a minimum of one page a day, a less intimidating goal than a daily word goal.

The idea is that if you write that much daily, then within a year, you'll have completed a novel. Of course, many writers will write more than one page a day because who truly can stop writing when they're on a roll? But at least they'll be writing every day.

Be sure to check out our progress here. Or you can follow on Twitter at #padc. My personal goal is to have completed the first draft of my WIP by mid-summer (July 15). Wish me luck!

The Arrival of Summer

2010-05-14T15:10:00.001-06:00

Summer. I can nearly taste its arrival. Blame it on the nasty weather we've experienced lately or the huge stack of essays on my desk I need to grade, but until today, summer seemed more like a dream than a reality.

The best part? There are only three weeks left until I get to be a full-time writer. Well, at least for the summer (the benefits of being a teacher who gets summers off). This will be the first time that I'll be devoting my summer to writing, and I'm excited!

Of course, if I had my way, this would be my view from my desk:

But since I don't own a private paradise--at least not yet--I'll settle for my humble writing desk. Besides, how could I write with that outside? If my full-time writing experience is going to be effective, I have to limit as many distractions as possible.

I'm curious, what do you do to limit distractions? Do you set a writing schedule or a word count? Do you plan your blogging/commenting time? Do you reward yourself for good behavior? I'd love you hear your suggestions before I embark on my new adventure.

In My Mailbox #3

2010-05-11T18:10:00.000-06:00

A new week means another trip to the library. Truthfully, I went last week too, but I never got around to updating my blog because my brain was mush after my Novel Revision Workshop. So this week, you get two week's worth of books for the meme In My Mailbox, hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren.

Last week's books (I've read them all this weekend and liked them enough to recommend to you):

The Girl Who Chased the Moon by Sarah Addison Allen

Heist Society by Ally Carter

Rules of Attraction by Simone Elkeles

And don't forget this week's books:

Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien

Jekel Loves Hyde by Beth Fantaskey

Jumping Off Swings by Jo Knowles

Mr. Darcy Broke My Heart by Beth Pattillo

Be sure to check out my Goodreads widget on my sidebar where I rate each book I finish (between 1 and 5 stars). Like always, if you've read any of these, let me know what you thought about them. With so many options, I always struggle deciding which one to read first!

To Be or Not To Be

2010-05-09T10:14:00.001-06:00

I don't know why I have such a hard time referring to myself as a writer. Maybe it's because I've only been seriously writing for less than a year. Maybe it's because being an English teacher has defined me for so long. But probably it's because I'm afraid. Afraid that I'll never be good enough to see my books sitting on the shelves at Barnes and Noble. Afraid that I'll never be able to quit my day job to write full time. Afraid that I'll never truly reach my writing dreams from over a decade ago.

Yet, my son has no trouble with it. I received the best Mother's Day gift from my eight-year-old: the validation that I am a writer! This is what he wrote in his fill-in-the-blank Mother's Day card that he made at school:

"My mom is a writer and an English teacher. She likes to read long books and write stories. She always tries to write 500 words every night."

If my son can call me a writer, then why can't I? He even put it before my day job! And I love the word goal that he's put into writing. How can I not fulfill it when my sweet little boy is watching out for me, making sure that I obtain what I want to accomplish?

The greatest joy for me will be if I can teach my boys that they can achieve anything they want in life with a lot of determination and hard work. I will publish books that will sit on book stores' shelves, I will be a full time writer, and I will reach my writing dreams. Thank you, my two sons, for your belief in me.

Happy Mother's Day to my blogger friends!

I've Been Tagged ...

2010-05-04T21:30:00.000-06:00

Thanks to Michelle Teacress, I've been tagged in a fun blogging game. Here are the rules: I must answer the following questions five times each and then tag five people to do the same.

Are you ready? Get set. Go!

Where were you five years ago?

1. Living in Midvale, UT, where my landlady charged me $50 for not mowing the lawn in April

2. Desperately counting down the days until my lease ended and I could buy a home

3. Dipping my feet into online dating (yeah, I can't believe I just admitted that)

4. Raising my two young sons on my own

5. Finishing up my second year of teaching

Where would you like to be in five years?

1. Published at least one young adult novel

2. Traveled to Italy

3. Purchased a new house

4. Have an office for writing

5. Found someone to cook gourmet meals for me and my family

What is on your To-Do list today?

1. Catch up on grading (high school and college students' papers)

2. Buy milk at the grocery store

3. Write in my WIP

4. Start reading a new book

5. Stay sane at work (only about 21 days of school left before summer!)

What snacks do you enjoy?

1. Dove chocolate

2. Leatherby's ice cream

3. Gummy bears

4. Junior Mints

5. Chocolate-covered orange sticks (I'm sensing a sugar/candy theme. Oops!)

What would you do with a billion dollars?

1. Build my own home with a custom library/writing room

2. Buy a vacation home somewhere warm and near water

3. Put money aside for my children's college educations

4. Quit my job to be a full-time writer

5. Add stamps to my passport

Who I've Tagged:

1. Andria at My Meandering Musings

2. J. Kaye at 365 Days of Novel Writing

3. Angie Paxton at Answering the What If

4. Liz H. Allen at Writing Mommy

5. Sandy Shin at In My Sandcastle

As my son would say, "You're it. No touch-backs!"

Novel Revision Retreat

2010-05-03T15:10:00.000-06:00

I had the most amazing weekend: my first SCBWI regional retreat. If you ever get the opportunity to attend Darcy Pattison's Novel Revision Retreat, do it!

In Pattison's book Novel Metamorphosis, she breaks down revision into smaller, manageable chunks like characters, plot, and setting. At the retreat, she gave us mini-lessons in each of these areas, providing us with several examples from published novels and picture books.

Pattison is a strong supporter of whole manuscript critiques. Before the retreat, each participant exchanged completed manuscripts with three others. We didn't do line-by-line edits; instead, we looked at the "big picture" for inconsistencies, strong and weak chapters, and good examples of characterization, setting, and language. I stayed with this group throughout the retreat as we discussed each of Pattison's mini-lessons and how they pertained to our own manuscripts. It was so helpful to receive input from three other people who knew my manuscript.

Another suggestion that Pattison gives is to use a shrunken manuscript. She describes this more in her book, but it's a way to visually represent your entire manuscript in about 30 pages to look for places where your conflict, dialogue, and scenes may be weak. I'm a visual learner, so seeing my manuscript this way was amazing!

I admit that my brain hurt when I left Idaho and headed back home. But it was a good hurt. I have so many ideas of how to revise my manuscript. Now I have a summer project: to make my novel better so I can start querying by the fall. Of course, there's that other WIP that I'd like to finish. It's going to be a busy (but productive) summer!

Thank You, Thank You (Awards)

2010-05-02T08:15:00.000-06:00

OK, you know you're an official member of the blogosphere when you start to get awards. In the past week, I've earned two, which really made my week. Once again, it's the little things that excite me!

My first ever award cam from Angie Paxton at Answering the What If. Thanks Angie!

I'd like to pass award to these wonderful bloggers:

1. Charity Bradford at My Writing Journey

2. Jennifer Daiker at Unedited

3. Terry Lynn Johnson

4. Sandy Shin

5. E. Elle at The Writer's Funhouse

My second award came from Anne Gallagher at Piedmont Writer. Thanks Anne!

I'm passing this award onto these fabulous buddies:

1. Andria at My Meandering Musings

2. Crystal Cook at Write Because You Must

3. Roland D. Yeomans at Writing in the Crosshairs
4. Angie Paxton at Answering the What If

Thank you everyone! I started my blog about four months ago, and I'm almost at 100 followers. Yes, that's right: a contest is on the horizon! I'll give you more details when I get a little bit closer, so stay tuned ...

Last Lines Blogfest

2010-05-01T07:24:00.002-06:00

Note to self: Do not sign up for a blogfest until after I make sure I have a piece to submit! I get so excited when I learn about new blogfests that I forget to think about whether or not I will have time to put a piece together. The Last Lines Blogfest, hosted by Lilah Pierce, was more difficult than I anticipated.

Some of my best "last lines" occur during crucial plot moments that I'm not ready to share yet. So, rather than posting a significant cliffhanger moment, I've chosen a lighthearted scene between my main character and her friends. It's from Again, the novel I'm currently revising.

[Excerpt has been removed to protect my work.]

Moving Past the Negative

2010-04-27T09:48:00.001-06:00

Why are we so willing to believe the negative and forget about the positive? We could receive a dozen positive reviews about our writing, but it just takes one negative comment for us to break down and cry or to begin doubting our ability to write.

So how do we overcome these bumps in our confidence? Here are a few tips (trust me, I have to remind myself of these on a daily basis):

1. Writing is subjective. There will never be a manuscript that 100% of people will love unconditionally. We all bring our own experience (background knowledge) into what we read. I may like someone's plot because I connect with it, but someone else may hate it because it seems ridiculous. Don't even get me started with characters (just think Team Jacob vs. Team Edward). So it's unrealistic to think that everyone who reads my manuscript will like it (as much as I wish it were possible). We can't get upset when someone has different taste than ours.

Similarly, we all have our own strengths and weaknesses as writers. Sometimes we're more attune to our weaknesses and tend to look for them in our critique partner's writing (maybe because it's at the forefront of our minds when we write). Make sure to take the time to focus on your strengths too.

2. We don't have to give in to every criticism. Just because someone thinks you've done something wrong doesn't mean that you have to change what you've written. As the writer, you ultimately get to decide what your manuscript looks like. If a suggestion makes you feel uncomfortable, don't change it. This even applies to suggestions made by agents and editors. Of course, you run the risk of losing them as agents or editors, but you shouldn't let anyone force you to make changes that you don't want to make.

3. Don't give up! Most writers, at one point or another, have allowed their self-doubt to creep in and make them wonder whether or not they should continue writing. Maybe you gave up a job to become a full-time writer. Maybe you're sacrificing a couple hours of sleep each night. Maybe you've spent oodles of money on a writing workshop or retreat. Don't let one negative comment derail you from your purpose. Instead, take a step back and use it as a learning experience. How can you use it to improve your writing?

What other tips do you have to add? What do you do to get past the negative?

In My Mailbox #2

2010-04-24T23:00:00.009-06:00

During the past three days, the students at the high school where I teach participated in a poetry slam. We were fortunate to have some local authors donate their time to help judge: A.E. Cannon, author of The Loser's Guide to Life and Love; Kim Williams Justesen, author of My Brother the Dog; Ann Dee Ellis, author of Everything is Fine; and Carol Lynch Williams, author of The Chosen One. Thanks again to those wonderful judges!

Two of the authors gave me a copy of their book, which I will place in my classroom library for my students (as soon as I reread them, of course!). They are the first two books In My Mailbox, a meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren.

Everything is Fine by Ann Dee Ellis

The Chosen One by Carol Lynch Williams

I also took a trip to the library yesterday to pick up books that I'd put on hold awhile ago. I haven't finished reading the books from my last In My Mailbox post, but my hold was about to expire.

Balancing Acts by Zoe Fishman

Breathless by Jessica Warman

Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder

Now I just have to find the time to read all of these interesting books ... without sacrificing my writing time!

Body Language Blogfest

2010-04-24T11:14:00.008-06:00

I admit that I nearly forgot about the Body Language Blogfest, hosted by Harley D. Palmer at Labotomy of a Writer. Thanks to Roland D. Yeomans for reminding me!

Below is my excerpt from Again, the Young Adult manuscript that I'm currently revising. I haven't spent much time revising the chapter that my excerpt is from, so please understand that it's still a work-in-progress (the self-conscious side of me needed that disclaimer). It was so hard to eliminate all the dialogue and only use body language!

[Excerpt has been removed to protect my work.]

A Rep to Protect

2010-04-20T19:51:00.000-06:00

Writing is a roller coaster ride of emotions. It's easy to succumb to its ups and downs. We love the thrilling rush of writing the perfect scene, a snappy exchange of dialogue, or a blush-worthy description of our character's first kiss.

Yet we despair at the constant feelings of insecurity: Will our novel attract an agent or editor? How much rejection is normal? Should we give up?

So how do we prevent our bi-polar emotions from discoloring our online reputation?

Any interested agent can instantly peruse our online presence through a simple Google search. Every comment, every post is up for immediate viewing. Have we displayed ourselves well?

Here's my question to you: What would you consider inappropriate to list on your blog? Or comment about on another blog?

What Happens Next?

2010-04-17T07:25:00.000-06:00

Last summer I participated in the Central Utah Writing Project, a program that helps teachers become better writers and better teachers of writing.

I credit the program and its members for giving me the courage to start writing my first manuscript, a dream I'd had for over a decade.

During the Summer Institute, A.E. Cannon, author of The Loser's Guide to Life and Love, gave us valuable advice about writing. She said you should always end your daily writing in a place where you know what is going to happen next. That way, you won't waste time the next day staring at your computer screen, wondering what to write.

You know what made me think of her advice? Sitting in front of my screen, wondering what to write next, and wishing I'd followed her advice. I'm at a point in my novel where I'm stuck. I've hit the dreaded writer's block.

What do you do to overcome writer's block? How do you avoid it?

In My Mailbox #1

2010-04-13T20:16:00.001-06:00

To celebrate National Library Week (April 11-17), I've decided to begin my first "In My Mailbox" post. For those who are unfamiliar with an In My Mailbox post, check out The Story Siren. Since I read far more books than I can afford to buy, my books come from today's trip to my local library.

Boys, Girls & Other Hazardous Materials by Rosalind Wiseman

The Everafter by Amy Huntley

Sing Me to Sleep by Angela Morrison

The Unwritten Rule by Elizabeth Scott

So many choices! Have you read any of these? What did you think? Any suggestions about which one I should read first?

Weekly Check-up

2010-04-12T18:53:00.001-06:00

Whew! I did it. I survived my first week after setting my writing goals. It wasn't easy, nor did I complete every goal. But I wrote more than I would've written without the goals, so that makes it all worth it in the end. Oh, and still no word from VCFA ...

My check-up on last week's goals:

Write 500 words a day for at least 5 days on my current WIP. I wrote 500 words for only 4 days, but now my manuscript has 2000 more words than it did a week ago.
Work on revisions for chapters 9-11 on my previous manuscript. I'm going to a revision workshop in the near future. When I told my friends that I was going to work on revisions before the workshop, a wise friend told me that it was like washing my clothes before taking them to the dry cleaners. So I abandoned this goal ... for now.
Finish critiquing a writing partner's manuscript before my writing group meets on Saturday. I finished all but one chapter on my writing partner's manuscript, but I also read the first chapter of her new WIP (so I think I made up for it).
Submit online. I didn't do this one because I'm not sure my manuscript is ready to be submitted (see goal #2). Maybe after the revision workshop.

My new goals for this week:

Write every single day, but at least 500 words on 4 days.
Finish critiquing a manuscript for my group at my upcoming revision workshop.
Read The First Five Pages by Noah Lukeman (homework for the revision workshop).

What I learned this week: Even with my goals, time has proven once again to be an elusive foe. I've learned that I give in to far too many distractions. Of course, some distractions take a priority over my writing (like my darling children), but I learned that my best writing time last week occurred when my kids were in bed asleep. And I mean really asleep, not in their rooms awake, preparing to come out every five minutes.

I also learned that it will not be the end of the world if I don't get into the MFA program that I applied to weeks ago. Everyone had great suggestions of how I can work on improving my craft, namely practice, practice, practice. Thanks for all the helpful suggestions!

Happy Library Appreciation Day!

Revision Tip

2010-04-11T10:52:00.001-06:00

At ... and this time, concentrate!, Summer introduced me to Wordle, a website where you can post an entire manuscript and it will visually display the words you use the most.

To better see my Wordle results for my WIP Again, click on the image below.

Wow, what an eye-opener! I'm aware of some of my overused words, but others surprised me. Now I can go through my manuscript and utilize the "search and edit" function to change these words.

Thanks Summer for this great revision idea!

Still Waiting ...

2010-04-08T21:34:00.009-06:00

Still no word from VCFA*. But that's OK ... now that I know I'm not the only stalker out there. (But I do feel sorry for postal workers worldwide!)

Thanks for all the encouraging words and suggestions. It's a relief to know that I'm not alone, that there are plenty of impatient writers like myself.

I'm discovering one major downside: my confidence keeps slipping lower after each disappointing trip to my mailbox. I keep questioning my writing ability and whether or not it's up to the standards of an MFA program.

No matter what, even if I don't get into VCFA, I refuse to give up. It just means I may need to take a few steps backward and work on becoming a better writer.

So, here's my question: Where do you go to improve YOUR craft? Are there any excellent books or online classes that you would recommend?

Just in case. Of course, still keep your fingers crossed for me!

*Update: The admissions counselor emailed me and said they had more applications than they'd expected, so it could be another week or two until I receive something in the mail. I guess that means I can postpone the mailbox watch for a little while.

Search for Sanity

2010-04-06T22:05:00.006-06:00

I've started stalking my postman. No, really. I mean, does it have to take an entire hour to stuff the mailboxes in my neighborhood? That's just counting the time I arrived home from work. Who knows how long he was out there before I saw him.

I'm not normally a stalker. I promise. You see, at the beginning of March, I sent in my application to the MFA program at Vermont College of Fine Arts. The admissions counselor advised me that I would hear back from them in 4-6 weeks. It's now Week 5; hence, the close relationship with my mailbox. (Actually, it started after Week 1, but who's really counting?)

My impatient waiting has made me question my ability to stay sane when I finally begin the querying process later this year. I know that it could take months (or years!) of querying before I receive a favorable response.

How do you all stay sane throughout the process? I'd really like to stop stalking my postman. (I'm sure he'd like it too!)

Thanks and Goals

2010-04-05T09:35:00.006-06:00

I owe a great big thanks to all of you who commented on my blogfest entries! All the thoughtful comments were filled with encouragement, which I greatly appreciated. Even better, the number of followers on my blog more than tripled this weekend. As a newbie blogger, my heart sings to see all those who showed an interest in my blog! I can't wait to be one of those bloggers who celebrates having 100 followers.

Thanks to the example of Crystal Cook on her blog Write Because You Must, I'm going to start setting weekly goals. They seem more manageable than monthly or quarterly goals because I tend to procrastinate. I commend all of you who manage to write 1,000 or 2,000 or 3,000+ words per day, but I'm not there yet. As much as I'd love to be able to write that much, I know that if I set my goal too high, I'll give up before I even begin. Besides, I haven't written since the March Marathon on Throwing Up Words, so any word count will be better than my current situation!

This week's goals:

Write 500 words a day for at least 5 days on my current WIP.
Work on revisions for chapters 9-11 on my previous manuscript.
Finish critiquing a writing partner's manuscript before my writing group meets on Saturday.
Submit online.

I can do this, right? What weekly goals you set for yourself? (For when I begin to aim higher, of course.)

First Page Blogfest - Part Two

2010-04-02T12:06:00.009-06:00

I figure that while I'm exposing myself with my first manuscript, I might as well do it with my second one too (see previous post for more information).

Below is the first page of Over the Edge:

[Excerpt has been removed to protect my work.]

First Page Blogfest

2010-04-02T11:33:00.004-06:00

I ran across an interesting idea today: a First Page Blogfest hosted by Kelly Lyman. Basically, it involves posting your first page of your WIP and letting readers comment about it. I've done this several times on Miss Snark's First Victim ... but anonymously. I know I need to develop a thicker skin, so I'm crazy enough to try this. Please feel free to provide as much constructive criticism as you'd like. Being the nervous sort, I do have to add a disclaimer: this is still a work in progress, so please don't expect perfection. :)

Okay ... (deep breath) ... below is the first page of Again:

[Excerpt has been removed to protect my work.]

The Big "R"

2010-04-01T16:39:00.001-06:00

Revision. It's a word that makes my students groan ... every time. To them, when they finish a first draft, it's their last draft. I used to be the same. Mostly because it was a writing assignment that I didn't enjoy. Once I got to the final period, I was finished. Period. :)

Not anymore. I've learned to love revision. It's my chance to fine tune every word, phrase, sentence, paragraph, and so on. I've lost count of how many times I've revised the first 1-2 pages of my manuscript. I jumped into the hook faster, I changed the tense from the past to the present to the past again, I made it less telling and more showing, etc. Each time I revise, I'm confident that it's so much better.

And then I discover another error I've made. Sometimes I wonder if the revision will ever end. I know that my manuscript needs to be the best it can possibly be before I seek representation and/or publication.

So, here's my question to my wise readers: How do I know when my revision is finished? Or will it ever finish? Will I ever be fully satisfied? I know, that ended up being more than one question, but I'd really love some advice!

In the meantime, I'm sure I find find something else to revise.

Right of Passage

2010-03-23T18:58:00.004-06:00

On every agent/editor blog or website I see lately, they post a disclaimer that if you don't hear from them, consider yourself rejected. Whatever happened to the rejection letters sent in the mail?

I remember going to a presentation by author Shannon Hale a few years ago where she talked to teachers in Jordan School District. She showed off her rejection letters, yards and yards of letters that she'd laminated together into one long row of papers.

Stephen King, in his book On Writing, talks about how he used to post his rejections on his wall until he ran out of room and had to find something larger to hold them all.

Am I going to miss out on this particular right of passage? I'm pragmatic enough that I expect rejection. But I was really looking forward to celebrating my first rejection letter. Am I out of luck? I guess I'll have to find another reason to celebrate.

March Marathon

2010-03-20T21:35:00.003-06:00

Whew! I did it. I accomplished the goal I set for the three-day March Marathon (a writing marathon engineered by Ann Dee Ellis and Carol Lynch Williams on the Throwing Up Words blog).

My goal was to write 5,000 words in my new novel. Two days ago, my novel had 329 words and I wasn't sure where I was going to go with it. Today, I have 5,341 (!) words and a better understanding of the novel's plot.

I'm starting to realize that I work really well with competition, especially when the competition is with myself (like where I've set a goal that I will be really disappointed in myself for not meeting). Normally, I procrastinate far too much and let life get in the way of my writing. Maybe I'll have to set up more writing marathons for myself in the future.

Now, it's time for me to reward myself!

Constructive Criticism

2010-03-15T19:45:00.007-06:00

Accepting criticism is hard, no matter who you. As a writer, it's been difficult for me to put my "baby" out there for others to see. Lately, I've had to learn to suck in my pride and accept help from others. It hasn't been easy, but it's been worth it.

My crit group, Writers in Paradise, has been supportive and helpful throughout my first draft. But I knew I needed additional help. A couple of months ago, I stumbled across Miss Snark's First Victim, a blog that has random contests where writers can anonymously place parts of their writing for others to view and comment. Excited for a new opportunity, I submitted an excerpt of of my manuscript in the Talkin' Heads contest.

Then the comments began. Fourteen people wrote essentially the same criticism over and over again: my characters sounded stiff and unnatural. Although I was frustrated, I didn't give up. I went back to my manuscript and started reworking all of the dialogue to make it sound more authentic (more like teenagers were speaking).

I decided to try again. This time I entered the blog's Secret Agent contest that examines the first 250 words of a manuscript to see if it "hooks" the reader. When I entered the contest, I knew that my beginning needed work. And I was right. Some liked it, but others thought it was "unremarkable." So I went back to my manuscript -- again -- and reworked the beginning. In fact, I changed my beginning so much that now it's in the present tense instead of the past tense.

The biggest lesson I've learned is that I need to stay humble and be willing to accept criticism. Revision is a long and challenging process, but it's necessary. After each new revision, I feel like my manuscript is stronger and better than before. I can't wait until I learn more at the two workshops I'm attending in April/May and June. After those workshops, I hope to be one step closer to sending my manuscript off to an agent.

In the meantime, I've started my second manuscript. It's a long, hard road as a writer, but I'm loving it!

March Contests

2010-03-08T15:46:00.005-07:00

I don't know about you, but I love contests. Starting today, I will post contests that I've heard about. Here are two writing contests for March:

March Marathon at Throwing Up Words. The best part of this contest? You get to set your own goals and prizes! Be sure to sign up soon because it begins on March 18. Oh, and mention my name as a referral.

"Dear Lucky Agent" contest at Guide to Literary Agents. Submit the first 150-200 words of your novel-length manuscript. It must be an urban fantasy or a paranormal romance. Hurry and submit because this contest ends on March 14.

Good luck!

My Future

2010-02-21T19:45:00.005-07:00

The past two weeks have forced me to second guess my future plans. I've been an educator for seven years, and it never occurred to me that I would abandon teaching. Until two weeks ago. Now I'm not sure if I will survive as a career teacher. It's disheartening to see how people in my state do not value education and how easy it is for them to take away funding, increase class sizes (we're already at 40+!), and lower teacher morale.

While reading Scribbler of Dreams by Mary E. Pearson this weekend, I found this quote: "I am through writing about regret and what might have been. I cannot change the past--only the future. And the only thing I can really change about the future is me. I have me, and I have my writing, two gifts ... and that is a lot to built a future with. Enough" (215).

What perfect advice for me! I've recently been regretting my decision to be a teacher instead of a lawyer, a choice I made over ten years ago. But regret doesn't get me anywhere. Moving ahead does. And I want to build my future, particularly my writing future, which is why I applied this week for Vermont College's Master of Writing for Children and Young Adults. When I told my parents about my decision to apply, their first question was, "Will this help you earn more money in your job?" No! And why should it? This is something that I'm doing entirely for ME. The degree is great, but it's what I will learn along the way that is more valuable to me.

Now I just have to wait the 4-6 weeks to see if I'm accepted. If I don't get in, I may need chocolate. Lots and lots of chocolate.

Change of Priorities

2010-02-07T10:19:00.005-07:00

Isn't it amazing how three short weeks can change someone's perspective? Last month, I was all about getting published: who to talk to about my novel, where to send my manuscript, and how to make it happen.

This month, I've accepted reality: my manuscript is far from being ready for publication. Truthfully, there were some days when I wanted to chuck my manuscript into the garbage and abandon my dream of writing. It's taken some time, but I've realized that I need to change my priorities.

Anne Lamott in Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life sums this idea up quite well: "I just try to warn people who hope to get published that publication is not all that it is cracked up to be. But writing is. Writing has so much to give, so much to teach, so many surprises. That thing you had to force yourself to do--the actual act of writing--turns out to be the best part ... The act of writing turns out to be its own reward."

It's time for me to take a step backwards and start working on becoming a better writing. To do this, I am going to apply to the low residency MFA program at Vermont College, an idea that terrifies me completely. Not only do I have to battle my self-doubt about whether or not I'll even get accepted, but the two-year commitment of 25 hours a week is overwhelming. But as my good friend Andria reminded me, I was able to write 50,000 words in one month during NaNoWriMo. If I found the time to do that, I certainly can devote the necessary time in the MFA program, especially because I really do want to become a better writer.

In the meantime, I'm going to do the one activity that truly makes someone a better writer: WRITE!

Patience is a Virtue ...

2010-01-17T15:36:00.004-07:00

We all remember the Heinz ketchup commercials: "Good things come to those who wait." Did I ever really expect that slogan from my childhood to apply to myself as a writer? Absolutely not. But, I'm slowly discovering that patience and writing are not mutually exclusive. I'm trying really hard to develop more patience in these areas:

The patience to put my novel aside. Stephen King, in his book On Writing recommends putting your novel in a drawer for an entire month, giving yourself some distance before you start revision. That sounds easy, right? Not for me! I wrote the damn thing, so don't I deserve to read it? Well, here's the problem. I sent my novel to a few close friends who are daring enough to give my rough version a first read. Of course, not wanting to come across as a totally incompetent writer, I did a complete run-through of my manuscript, looking for typos and errors. Despite my hard work, I received my novel back from my sister, Heather, this weekend, and lo-and-behold, she found so many typos that I completely missed! Thank you, Stephen. I have now learned my lesson, and with a resounding thud, I'm throwing my novel back in its "drawer."

The patience to postpone sending out query letters until my revision is complete. I am so excited to start the process of finding an agent that I've already done my research and found one that I feel good about. However, as clearly evidenced above, my manuscript is FAR from perfect. Now, I'm dealing with this inner struggle: when do I send a query to an agent? Finding an agent could be a long, drawn-out process of potential rejection after rejection. (I mean, come on. Even Stephenie Meyer was rejected by several agents. I'm just being realistic.) So, do I send in my first ten pages, like most agents require, and spend the two-month waiting period working on revising the rest of my novel? Or do I polish my novel first, just to make sure my novel is even agent-worthy?

The patience to wait ... and wait ... and wait. Writing is not a career full of instant gratification. It takes time to write a novel, time to complete the revision process, time to find an agent who deems you worthy of representation, time to woo a publisher, and time to get the manuscript turned into a book sitting on the shelves at Barnes and Noble. In my agent and publisher research, a common wait time is two to three months. That's two to three months waiting to see if they even want to read more than just the first ten pages. And most only want you to send a query to one agent or publisher at a time. Added up, all that time could equal years and years of patience.

So if you have any ideas on how to develop more patience, I'm waiting ... (just not very patiently).

In the Beginning

2010-01-14T13:42:00.003-07:00

As a novice writer, it seems appropriate to begin my blog by emulating the experts. I've noticed that the trend seems to be a twist on traditional New Year's resolutions, centering them around writing goals. To me, I've always had a love/hate relationship with writing: I struggle with the process, yet I love the sense of accomplishment I feel when I'm finished. Therefore, my writing resolutions are ways to help me kick-start myself with writing:

1. Write each day. This seems like a "duh" resolution to me. Writers need to write, right? But, it's so easy to let life get in the way. So, my goal is to write, even if it's just a little, every day, no matter what. Even with my children begging for another cup of water before bed, even with my psycho cat running up and down my desk, and even with the half-finished novel sitting on my nightstand calling my name to finish reading it.

2. Let myself write crap. I'm the kind of writer who has an inner struggle with being able to move on to the next sentence without being 100% satisfied with all that has come before. What does that do to a writer with very limited time to write? Very little gets written. Instead of continuing this habit, I'd like to embrace revision, to recognize that I'll have plenty of time later to polish what I've written.

3. Adopt an "I can do it!" attitude. For far too long, I've resisted the urge to write a novel by convincing myself that it'll just end in failure. But, you know what? I can do it. Thanks to the motivation of NaNoWriMo, I've completed a first draft of my novel. Now, I just have to remember to push back that fear and self-doubt as I attempt to find an agent. Of course, I hope this is just the beginning, that I will continue to write other novels, never giving in to my lack of confidence.

And there I'll stop. After all, I'm just a novice. Wish me luck!