Lillie McFerrin Writes

Yearning - #5SentenceFiction

2012-02-29T20:55:00.002-05:00

She thinks about it when her eyes are open, when they areclosed, and every flutter in between. A constant parade of letters marchthrough her mind, fusing together to form words before bursting apart to floataround in search of new syllabic companions. The characters created in theprocess become her friends, enemies, and wards. They are hers to mold, hers todestroy.

It’s a daily hunger to construct the perfect weaving ofletters that form a story strong enough to climb to the top, outlast its creator,and live forever.

Link up your own story of YEARNING here.

Check out past Five Sentence Fiction posts here.

Lillie

Five Sentence Fiction - Yearning

2012-02-23T00:00:00.000-05:00

What it’s all about: Five Sentence Fiction is about packing a powerful punch in a tiny fist. Each week I will post a one word inspiration, then anyone wishing to participate will write a five sentence story based on the prompt word. The word does not have to appear in your five sentences, just use it for direction.

This week: YEARNING

This inspiration word was chosen by the lovely Anna Meade. She just wrapped up a truly inspiring competition; head over and check out all of the talented entries!

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below.

Check out past Five Sentence Fiction posts here.

Also, be sure to visit everyone's FSF post

Lillie

Giveaways Gallore!

2012-02-19T12:50:00.000-05:00

If you've missed any of these givaways, check them out today!

Amazing prizes from talented bloggers:

Leigh Covintgon is giving you the opportunity to win a copy of EVERNEATH by Brodi Ashton.
Lori M. Lee is giving away fourteen stellar prizes in all.
Rachelle is giving away a book of your choice.
Victoria is giving away the entire Hunger Games trilogy.

You still have one day to enter Anna's awesome blog hop!

Fairy Fiction - Iridescent Love

2012-02-18T23:05:00.000-05:00

Here's my entry for Anna Meade's awesome blog contest.

Iridescent Love

It’s like gazing directly at the summer sun. After looking away his light leaves a bright haze, setting tiny fireballs dancing across my vision. Iridescent blue-green wings flap frantically as he zips around my bedroom.

A memory from last year tugs at the corners of my mouth.

We had passed each other in the hall at work for a year, smiling and awkwardly locking eyes. Then one day he showed up in my office.

“You’ve never worn that shirt before,” he said, casually leaning against my desk.

“Nope, got it last week.” Yes, I was enamored with him for noticing my new shirt.

“I like it. Feel like taking a walk with me?”

“Anything,” I said lamely. Wiping the moisture from my palms down my slacks, I dazedly followed him outside.

Once we were away from the office, he grasped my shoulders, suddenly serious. “You feel it too, right? This…thing between us? It’s like electricity or lightening or something. I don’t know. You make me shaky…In a good way…I think. My mind gets scrambled when you look at me.”

I brushed a finger across his lips. “I’ve felt it since the first time our eyes met.

“There’s something you have to know about me before this goes any farther. I’m a fairy."

Brows raised, I just stared him.

“Really. Sure, I know most people think it’s only a girl thing, but it’s not.”

I continued to stare in disbelief.

“Okay, wait right here,” he said, before disappearing behind a bush.

Next thing I knew there was a slight pressure on my shoulder. My six foot man had become a six inch fairy.

“Well,” I said. “I think love means taking you as you are.”

He smiled, flapped his shimmering wings and planted the faintest of fairy kisses on my nose.

****

Five Sentence Fiction - Exquisite

2012-02-16T00:00:00.000-05:00

Source

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below.

Check out past Five Sentece Fiction posts here.

Also, be sure to visit everyone's FSF post

Lillie

Five Sentence Fiction - Sacred

2012-02-09T13:07:00.000-05:00

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below.

Check out past Five Sentece Fiction posts here.

Also, be sure to visit everyone's FSF post.

Lillie

Shiver

2012-02-07T22:38:00.001-05:00

The wave of emotion ripped through me from head to toe,sending shivers down my spine. I narrowed my eyes on him waiting for the laughthat would let me know it was all a big terrible joke.

He stepped closer, taking my hand and said it again!

“But, I’m noisy, messy, unorganized chaos,” I said inexasperation.

“Yes,” he nodded, “and that’s exactly why I love you."

Link up your own SHIVER story here.

Check out past Five Sentence Fiction posts here.

Lillie

Blog Hop Winners!!

2012-02-07T07:51:00.000-05:00

This was an extraordinarily difficult decision for us to make. There were so many amazing entries for the Blog Hop!!!

But, Angie, Angela, Daniel, and I finally came to a decision on the five winners. Thanks to everyone who participated and spread the word to make our blog hop a success. You guys rock!!

And the winners are:

1st PLACE: Ruth Long "Between the Lines" - 50 pg edit from Me!!

2nd PLACE: Donna McNicol "Forest Flowers" - 25 pg edit from Angie Richmond

3rd PLACE: Jo Ann Teal "Out of the Dark" - 15 pg edit from Angela Goff

4th PLACE: Brewed Bohemian "A Beautiful Place to Die" - 10 pg edit from Daniel Swensen

5th PLACE: Gwen Tolios "Extinguishing Souls" - a copy of Stephen King's On Writing

Make sure to grab the winner button for your blog :)

Five Sentence Fiction - Shiver

2012-02-02T00:00:00.000-05:00

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below.

Check out past Five Sentece Fiction posts here.

Also, be sure to visit everyone's FSF post.

Lillie

Clandestine

2012-02-01T14:15:00.000-05:00

Meet mebehind the tree, his note said. Be there at four, written in blue.

I put on theyellow sundress as he requested, stuff my purse with the amount I owe just incase things don’t go according to plan.

When I pullup, he’s standing there looking out at the peaceful lake beyond like it’s anordinary day where ordinary things happen.

I wish,again, that I had a gun, but take a deep breath and focus on the weight of theknife in my pocket knowing it will be him or me, hoping it’s him.

Link up your own Clandestine story here.

Check out past Five Sentence Fiction posts here.

Lillie

Five Sentence Fiction - Clandestine

2012-01-26T00:00:00.000-05:00

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below.

Check out past Five Sentece Fiction posts here.

Also, be sure to visit everyone's FSF post

Lillie

Blog Award Bliss

2012-01-25T14:43:00.000-05:00

It’s raining blog awards!!

I am ecstatic over the awards I’ve been given by these talented bloggers!

Big thanks to the lovely ladies over at Thinking Through Our Fingers for this awesome award!

The Versatile Blogger Awards are compliments of a few of the very best:

Kelley, J.A. Bennett, and SJI Holliday.

Thanks again to J.A. Bennett for the Great Comments Award.

Thank you Kelley at Between the Bookends for this pretty Kreativ Blogger award.

Be sure to visit the all of these blogs. They are not to be missed!!!

The rules for these awards are all similar. (Find out more about the rules here)

So, I will combine them by telling you five things about myself and passing all of these to five amazing bloggers!

1. I adore dogs. This may be a shock, but it's true ;)

2. I am lucky enough have been asked to contribute to the awesome Pyjama Club blog. Head over and check it out!

3. Blue is my favorite color. I think just about anything looks better blue!

4. Each and everytime I watch Steel Magnolias I find a new reason to love it and cry over it.

5. In my mind I play tennis like Kim Clijsters; even when I make a flying leap and catch nothing but air with my racket.

Now I get to pass these awards on!!

If you've received these awards before feel free to do with them as you wish :)

Hope Roberson at Writing with Hope

Mark Koopmans at Aloha, and Hi! from HI

Angela V. Cook at The Starving Novelist

Felicity at Dronezone

McKenzie at The Other Side of Sorrow

It's a Blog Hop!!!

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000-05:00

I amteaming up with Angela Goff, Angie Richmond, and Daniel Swensen for a fabulous bloghop to celebrate all of our amazing blog followers and writing cohorts!

Here'sthe deal:

Write apiece of flash fiction, poem, or song (300 words or less) using the photo aboveas your inspiration. Post it on your blog any time between now and when thelinky closes. Every eligible entry will qualify for a chance to win one of theprizes listed below. The linky will be open from January 23 through January 30.

Angie,Angela, Daniel and I will read, debate, and decide on five winners for thefollowing:

1^st: Fifty pagecritique by Lillie McFerrin

2^nd: Twenty-Fivepage critique by Angie Richmond

3^rd: Fifteenpage critique by Angela Goff

4^th: Ten pagecritique by Daniel Swensen

5^th: A copy ofSteven King’s On Writing

Copy and paste the linky code below with your entry. Spread the word! We lookforward to reading your take on this amazing photo!


<script type="text/javascript">
document.write('<script type="text/javascript" src=http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=116954&' + new Date().getTime() + '"><\/script>');</script>

Creativity Block

2012-01-21T02:16:00.001-05:00

If you write, you’ve likely experienced writer’s block atime or twenty. It’s part of the journey, one of the things we have to findways to work through. I like to change the location of where I write, maybetake a notebook and pencil down to the beach or a coffee shop. Anything to getmy brain in gear.

Writer’s block has not been a problem for me so far thisyear, mostly thanks to the genius of Cara Michaels and #WIP500. I have writtenevery day this year, no problem filling up page after page on my new WIP. The issue I’ve run into is that the words are there, but they are void ofimagination.

I am officially suffering from creativity block. I mentallyball up the pages I’ve typed and chunk them into a tall metal waste basketsaying, ‘Garbage, garbage, ridiculous garbage.’ Some of it reads like anarticle for a newspaper specializing in how paint dries.

In an effort to work through the creativity block, just as Ido with writer’s block, I found a few helpful sites. Check them out if you findyourself in this dusty, dry place with me:

http://lauragraceweldon.com/2011/04/27/16-ways-to-spark-creativity/

https://sites.google.com/site/scottdistillery/dumblittlewritingtricksthatwork

http://makeyourblog.net/blogging/200-ways-to-spark-creativity

Over the next few weeks I am going to put some of these tipsand ideas to the test. I’ll let you know how it goes!

What ways do you get your creativity rolling?

Lillie

*Cartoon Source

Radiance

2012-01-21T00:08:00.001-05:00

We wind down slowly, inch by inch, toward the bottom of thesea. Headlights burst through the water revealing plants that dance to a tuneonly they know and fish wearing colors that only exist here. As we near themouth of the algae covered cave it’s clear, by the presence of spear wielding guards,this will be no ordinary exploration. I look to Vince for answers, but herefuses to return the glance by looking straight ahead, seemingly enraptured bythe vessel controls. After the swift docking, things happen so quickly I don’trealize at first that I’ve been betrayed, but when the restraints appear I’msure I was right to slip the silver pistol in my ankle holster.

Source

Link up your own RADIANCE story here.

Check out past Five Sentence Fiction posts here.

Lillie

Five Sentence Fiction - Radiance

2012-01-19T14:49:00.000-05:00

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below.

Check out past Five Sentece Fiction posts here.

Also, be sure to visit everyone's FSF post

Lillie

Delirious

2012-01-16T20:59:00.000-05:00

Flickers fly from my heated skin, fireflies dancing in thewind. I am entranced as sparks turn to flames with each caress. We feed theblaze, mustn’t let it wither to ash carried far and distant by a breeze of chance.Searching ocean eyes dare me to embrace it, be consumed by it, be bold with it.Grabbing the frenzied warmth with both hands I close my eyes and let it catchmy heart ablaze.

Link up your own story here.

Check out past Five Sentence Fiction posts here.

Lillie

Five Sentence Fiction - Your Choice

2012-01-12T18:29:00.001-05:00

What it’s all about: Five Sentence Fiction is about packing a powerful punch in a tiny fist. Each week I will post a one word inspiration, then anyone wishing to participate will write a five sentence story based on the prompt word. The word does not have to appear in your five sentences, just use it for direction.

This week: Your Choice

Last week was an amazingfor Five Sentence Fiction! More people linked up than ever before. Thank you so much for participating and writing!!! So, in celebration of you amazing writers, I want this week to be your choice. Check out the Five Sentence Fiction tab and pick whichever word from a past week that inspires you or rework one you've already done! Have fun :)

source

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below.

Check out past Five Sentece Fiction posts here.

Also, be sure to visit everyone's FSF post

Lillie

Wacky Wednesday

2012-01-11T18:14:00.001-05:00

My dog, Duke, likes to talk. I got a video of him today and wanted to share it with you guys. Enjoy his weirdness :) Don't forget to check back tomorrow for this week's inspiration word for Five Sentence Fiction. Come join the fun!

The Versatile Blogger Award

2012-01-10T16:50:00.001-05:00

Blogger Award!!! It’s super awesome andpretty, too.

Thanks so much to the amazingly talentedAngie Richmond over at Write Me Happy and Angela Goff over at Anonymous Legacyfor passing on the Versatile Blogger Award to me.

So here are the rules:

1. In a post on your,blog, nominate 15 fellow bloggers for The Versatile Blogger Award.

2. In the same post,Add the Versatile Blogger Award.
3. In the same post, thank the blogger who nominated you in a post with a linkback to their blog.
4. In the same post, share 7 completely random pieces of information aboutyourself.
5. In the same post, include this set of rules.
6. Inform each nominated blogger of their nomination by posting a comment oneach of their blogs.

Fifteen awesomebloggers:

Be sure to head over and check out these blogs!!!

Seven things about me:

1. I think squirrels are awesome! I have so muchfun watching them play in the trees behind my house.

2. Last week I bought a touch-free soap dispenser.One of my new favorite things. I get a little excited every time I have to washmy hands J

3. I love trees. I don’t know if I could livesomewhere that wasn’t full of them. There is a super awesome tattoo of a treethat I would get if I wasn’t so scared. Maybe one day!!

4. I have a notebook, journal obsession. Whenever Isee a new interesting one, I buy it even knowing it may not be written in foryears.

5. I am addicted to Twitter.

6. Sitting in my pajamas, watching Golden Girlsreruns all day is my bliss. And, eating chocolate. Must have chocolate.

7. The Australian Open starts in six days. I will be glued to my TV for twoweeks, watching tennis in the middle of the night because I like to watch themlive. Who needs sleep when tennis is on??

MORE NEWS:

I am planning a blog hop with some amazing bloggers for when I hit 100 followers on my blog. Keep an eye out! There will be great writitng and prizes!!

Hunger

2012-01-06T23:22:00.001-05:00

The foggy haze floating atop the water is thick tonight, athin layer of cover, just the way I like it. Sun will be coming up any timenow, so I have to finish hunting soon. That new albino gator who showed up lastweek has really been hogging my territory. Wait, there it is, what I’ve beenlooking for all night, just standing there waiting. Tourists always make for afine feast when the hunger is strong.

Source

Link up your own HUNGER story here.

Check out past Five Sentence Fiction posts here.

Lillie

Five Sentence Fiction - Hunger

2012-01-05T00:15:00.000-05:00

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below.

Check out past Five Sentece Fiction posts here.

Also, be sure to visit everyone's FSF post

Lillie

Plans for 2012

2012-01-01T10:36:00.004-05:00

This is not a post about my New Year’s resolutions. This isabout my plans for 2012. I’m excited about what this year has to offer. And,like Angie Richmond, I don't like the idea of making resolutions that will be left in January. I am a planner, though,so this should work out just fine.

Plans for 2012:

~~1: I will buy my first Aston Martin.~~

1: I would like to enter at least one writing contest. I’venever done this, but it should be a great way to work on my short fiction. Mayeven try to tackle a short story, my nemesis.

Hereare links to some upcoming writing contests if you’re interested:

www.gemini-magazine.com/poetryopen.html

http://hootreview.com

www.themedullareview.com/Oblongata_Contest.html

june.english@btinternet.com

www.ecoartsawards.com

www.amyfound.org/amy_writing_awards/amy_writing_awards.html

www.ruminatemagazine.com/submit/contests/nonfiction/

http://christopherprofeta.webs.com/writingcontests.htm

2: This was my first year participating in NaNoWriMo. I amso glad that I did. I won, and along the way met some amazing writers andwriting buddies. In 2012, I plan to edit my Nano story, that I fell so much inlove with.

Someamazing bloggers who motivate me to write on Twitter:

Angie Richmond - @write_me_happy

Steven Watson - @ashviper

Jo-Ann Teal - @jtvancouver

Angela Goff - @Angela_Goff

Natasha Guadalupe - @GirlWriter

3: I have joined up with Cara Micheals for WIP500. Her ideais that we make a commitment to write at least 500 words a day on a writingproject. I love this idea! For WIP500, I will be working on a brand new story.

4: Last year I didn’t read near the books I would’ve liked. Forthis year, I have a list of books I hope to read that I plan to continue to addto throughout the year. Twenty books is the plan.

5: When I jog regularly I feel amazing, my writing isbetter, and I’m all around happier. So, in 2012 I plan to jog more. The goal for 2012 is 1000 miles.

Here’s to a 2012 filled with writing, editing, jogging, andnew adventures.

Five Sentence Fiction will start back up this week onThursday. Join in the fun!

Happy New Year!

Lillie

Mistletoe

2011-12-28T21:06:00.001-05:00

She was finished sitting around waiting for him to finallyleave his noisy, big haired wife. It was time to take matters into her ownhands, and what better time than the Christmas party? Armed with a ball of waxyleaves sprouting tiny white flowers that hung from a red bow, she marched up toher target and grinned wickedly holding the ball above them as high as her armwould allow. He looked around them at everyone and shot her a death glance, butleaned in for a good-natured peck on her cheek, but at the last moment sheturned her head, in an age old girl move, forcing him to kiss her smack on thelips. When she wound her arms possessively around his neck, and deepened thekiss, she heard the satisfying sound of his wife gasp followed by her loud exit

Link up your own MISTLETOE story here.
Check out past Five Sentence Fiction posts here.

Lillie

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2011-12-20T19:33:00.000-05:00

I am taking a blogging break for the holidays. On the first of January I will be back with a blog about my hopes, plans, and goals for 2012.

I hope you each have a beautiful holiday and the happiest of New Years!!

There will also be a link open at the bottom of this post until January 1, 2012 for anyone who wants to link up for the holiday Five Sentence Fiction.

The inspiration word: MISTLETOE

Lillie

Poison

2011-12-17T16:32:00.000-05:00

Jacob snuck down the stairs, looking back over his shoulderto be sure his parents weren’t following, and stopped at the bottom to peekaround the door to the chimney. Santa wasn’t here yet, but Jacob knew it wouldn't be long now. Since putting those worms in Suzie Jo Martin’s hair had madeeveryone so angry, he was sure his name was on the naughty list. He knew Santa wouldn’tbe able to resist the milk and cookies, so Jacob had left a note to ensure the shinyred bike would finally be his. There was no poison in the milk, of course, butSanta wouldn’t know that.

Link up your poison post here.

'Wrap it up' Blogfest

2011-12-15T11:36:00.002-05:00

Three awesome bloggers are hosting this blogfest,

Leigh Covington , David Powers King, and J.A. Bennett.

To get all the details click the picture below.

My entry:

You came into my life as the birds began their Spring song. Brightlycolored blooms surrounded us in the park that day. I remember the way yousmiled with your whole face as you jogged over to me, apologizing for Brutus’sforgotten manners. I looked down at my new white skirt, freshly stained withthe coffee I spilled when Brutus greeted me, and just laughed. We’d never metbefore, but I loved him. He looked through me with the intelligent eyes of adog who knows a broken person when he sees them.

The Summer was one of cherished memories, our spring crushturned to summer love. I remember the long, lazy days on the beach with you andBrutus. The day Brutus saved the little boy’s ball from being swept out to seawas a special one for me. You glowed with pride watching him dive right in tograb the ball tightly between his teeth and, after shaking the salty wetnessfrom his back, trot over to the toddler and lay the ball at his feet.

Soon the leaves turned fiery shades of orange, red, andyellow. In a blink the beauty was gone, and the leaves became dry, brown,crunches beneath our feet. It was then Brutus began spending more time on thecouch, less time chasing his favorite tennis ball. I think you knew before I did;you tried to protect me. I watched thespark die in Brutus’ eyes a little more each day. You and I would sharedesperate glances over his furry head, knowing there was nothing we could dobut love him.

We were given a year of bliss with Brutus. I owe my life tohim for what he taught me about love and happiness.

Because of him, I have you.

Lillie

Five Sentence Fiction - Poison

2011-12-13T20:01:00.001-05:00

Photo found here.

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below.

Check out past Five Sentece Fiction posts here.

Also, be sure to visit everyone's FSF post

Lillie

Nineteen

2011-12-10T22:36:00.001-05:00

She glares at the cursor, irritated by its mocking blink remindingher she spent too much time using backspace, Facebook and Twitter. Five hours at the desk with only nineteen wordsto show for her numb rear and strained eyes. Sure, there had been more words atcertain parts of the day, but in the end only nineteen remained. Sitting backin her brown leather chair, she imagined how it might feel to take her laptopoutside to run over it with her car a few times, or throw open the window andhurl it down to the cold hard ground below, or take it out back, toss it on theold charcoal grill and watch it go up in glorious flames. But, she knew shewould be sorry if she killed her laptop, because while it had been a rough day that hunk of gigabytesand ram housed pieces of her heart and soul.

Link up your own NINETEEN story here.
Check out past Five Sentence Fiction posts here.

Lillie

Five Sentence Fiction - Nineteen

2011-12-08T19:16:00.001-05:00

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below.
Check out past Five Sentece Fiction posts here.

Also, be sure to visit everyone's FSF post!

Lillie

Write on Wednesday - Nine Ladies Dancing

2011-12-08T16:57:00.001-05:00

Write On Wednesdays Exercise 27 - Mel suggested that we look at the "12 Days of Christmas" poem/song and select one of the days/lines for our writing inspiration. So, whether a Partridge in a Pear Tree or Five Golden Rings, write your line at the top of your page, set your timer for 5 minutes and write the first words that come into your head.

Martinique watched the nine ladies dancing elegantly acrossthe polished hardwood floor. Her mouth curved into a smug smirk. She would soonbe the tenth. Poor Elizabeth, the former number ten, had fallen down an entireflight of stairs last week, leaving her with multiple broken bones and not asingle chance of staying in the show.

Closing her eyes, breathing in the satisfaction, Martiniquesmiled. No one saw who pushed Elizabeth down those stairs. It was such a darkarea. Must’ve been an accident, they all said. Martinique knew better. She knewhow to get what she wanted, so that’s what she’d done.

“Ah, Martinique,” the rail thin instructor said, tapping hisfingers together in front of his face. “So happy to have you. You’ve quitegraceful shoes to fill. Come on, let’s see what you’ve got.”

Martinique fought the grimace trembling behind her lips. Shewanted to spit in the man’s face. How dare he treat her like some green, offthe street, dancer? Pushing down the burst of red fury behind her eyes, shelifted her chin and headed out onto the floor.

First she sprung into her classic chasse, that led to a flurry of perfectly pointed toes asshe executed a flawless sous sous.She ended with particularly difficult grandjete, which she nailed. Slowly letting her arms fall from above her head,she kept her eyes focused triumphantly on the doubting man.

“Is that what you had in mind?” she questioned.

He snapped his fingers at the other nine dancers, who hadpressed in a line against the wall to watch her performance. “Okay, break timeis up, let’s get started.”

She fumed. He didn’t so much as nod at her work. As she tookher position in line, she pondered the ways to make him pay for his disrespect.

Check out the other WoW posts here.

Only Writing in my Head!

2011-12-05T20:14:00.001-05:00

Ever get to that place in the novel writing adventure whereit’s all you think about, but writing is still difficult? I’m so there.

My dog gets my frustration!

I am still working on my NaNo novel. It is a story I love,full of characters I want to be friends with, but I still have a hard timegetting the words out. Sometimes, I want to start back at the beginning andedit, edit, edit. Other times, I think I should continue writing and editlater.

The story is always on my mind. I don’t have the slightestproblem thinking of things that I want to happen, things I want to tweak, orcharacters that need a little something extra. The story plays alive and wellacross my mind; everything is magic and harmonious in my head, but as soon as Isit down to get all of it down the creative factory closes, an iron door fallsshutting in everything I wanted to say. It’s the strangest case of writer’sblock I’ve ever encountered.

Sometimes I think the pressure I feel to write perfectly,self-inflicted pressure of course, harms my writing more than anything else. I wantthe words to flow as beautifully on paper as they do in my mind. So, when I sitdown to write I fear I won’t live up to my own expectations. It’s a constantbattle between me, myself, and I.

How do you get past this?

On a happier note, an amazing writer has started a blog!Check out Steven’s blog. He basically kicked NaNoWriMo rear, and is still goingstrong. Also, if you’re up for #wordmongering on Twitter, he is around formotivation. Just try and keep up with his 30 minute words counts. I dare you!Find him on Twitter: @ashviper

Secrets

2011-12-03T23:30:00.001-05:00

They are the gumdrops and lollypops in our day. The sweetthings, whispered late at night that no one knows but us. Separated in a crowdedroom, it's the single shared glance that is an entire conversation.

It’s the worn spot under the weeping willow where we sit onsunny afternoons.

Shared hearts, sharedsecrets.

Five Sentence Fiction - Secrets

2011-12-01T23:06:00.001-05:00

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below.

Check out past Five Sentece Fiction posts here.

Also, be sure to visit everyone's FSF post!

Lillie

Write on Wednesday: Flames

2011-12-01T13:36:00.001-05:00

Write On Wednesdays Exercise 26 - Look at the photo at the top of this post. What does it inspire in you? Set your timer for 5 minutes. With the photo in mind, write the first words that come into your head until the buzzer rings. If you aren't a visual person, you could try lighting a few candles and writing by candlelight. Different sensory experiences can be useful for inspiring creative writing so please play around to make the prompt suit your writing needs. If you do try writing by candlelight, let us know. I'd love to know how it works for you!

A hand curved carefully around the tiny flame, providingshelter from the storm. Lost between here and there, desperate to remain. She walkedpast angry faces, shadows carved from crippled branches dipping and swaying ina devilish dance.

Once, twice the light threatened to die.

The only beacon, she willed it to burn on through the storm.Stronger than the curved hand. Stronger than the beating heart. Her anxietygrew as she felt the slipping of sand through the hour glass like bouldersfalling from a steep incline, barreling towards expiration.

It was like that here.

Where no light was found, but for the faint spark on a dyingcandle stick. But there was hope. Hope that sparks became flames and flamesbecame life. She glanced down at the flickering orange oval that was her future.Her mission was not an easy one, but she’d give her life readily to protect theradiance it promised.

Not a fleeting thing. But, a pulse growing stronger, steadier.

Her mouth lifted at the slight brightening of the light, asthough it understood their mission. Together they would set the fire of life tothis dead place.

Check out the other WoW posts here!!

Sacrifice

2011-11-28T20:05:00.000-05:00

Anna sat comfortably where Joeparked her, enjoying the mingling crowd of family and friends at her thirtiethbirthday party. She looked up and smiled warmly as her cousin came to crouch infront of Anna’s wheelchair for a chat. It had been a rough few weeks as Anna’sMultiple Sclerosis roared loudly as if to remind her it was bigger than she andwould ruin her birthday party if it felt like it, but with her husband’s loveand never ending devotion as caregiver, the party was a hit.

“Youlook lovely, and I just want you to know what an inspiration your strength isto us all,” her cousin said, squeezing Anna’s hand.

“Wellthank you, but the credit goes to him,” Anna replied, nodding at Joe who wasbusy filling a plate full of Anna’s favorite treats.

Link up your own SACRIFICE story here.
Check out past Five Sentence Fiction posts here.

Lillie

A Writer's Treasure Hunt - Week Four

2011-11-27T18:19:00.001-05:00

After NaNoWriMo wraps up, we’ll all be proud ofourselves for our hard work, but also ready for a break. So, I would like togive away two books to one lucky winner as an end of November treat!

Thefirst book you can win is an autographed copy of The NaNoLand Chronicles By: Chris Baty. The second is a surprisethat you will have to uncover. Each week in November I will post clues so thatyou can hunt down one of the words in the title of the mystery book.

After all clues are posted, thefirst ten people to unscramble the words, and comment with the correct booktitle, will go into a drawing to win both books! The winner will be announcedon December 1, 2011.

Cluesfor Week Four: The word you are looking for this week is five letterslong.

1) Head over to Becca's fantastic site.

2) The first letter can be found under The Why tab. When you findout what Becca love's beginning, the letter is the last letter in that word.

3) Under categories find short stories. The next letter is the seventhletter of the title of Becca's story.

4) Locate Becca's post from January 20,2011. The next letter is the ninth letter of the second subheading in thispost.

5) Go to the contact section for thefourth letter. Click the link to see Becca's twitter feed. The letter is thesixth letter in her blurb about herself.

6) The fifth letter is in Becca's postfrom September 7, 20011. Becca gives an example for 'the alternative' inparenthesis. The letter is the eigth letter in her example.

Ifyou need to catch up:

Thefirst week's word can be found here.

Thesecond week’s word can be found here.

The third week's word can be found here.

Once you have the title of the mystery book post it below.
Winner announced December 1, 2011.

Bestof luck,

Lillie

Five Sentence Fiction - Sacrifice

2011-11-25T06:26:00.001-05:00

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below. Also, be sure to check out the other link ups! Any feedback on Five Sentence Fiction is welcome!

Lillie

Write on Wednesday: The saddest thing I ever heard

2011-11-22T13:26:00.001-05:00

Write On Wednesdays Exercise 25 - I heard a song on the radio during the week and I thought the lyrics would make an interesting prompt for WoW. So, write the words "The saddest thing I ever heard" on your page, set your timer for 5 minutes and write the first words that come into your head based on the given prompt.

Everything about the weather is wrong. The sunis shining brilliantly in the clear blue sky, even while a storm ravages mysoul. Chirping birds busy themselves nearthe stone bath, making a cheery fuss over the freshly blooming spring day. Eventhe blue tulips around my mailbox seem to dance in the light breeze.

It's all wrong. I would preferrain falling steadily from a dark and angry sky, while lightningbolts pierce through the clouds like javelins. That, at least, would makesense.

With the perverse humor of the weather, Hunter strollsfrom the house with his last bag, whistling. Whistling! It is the final stitch unravelingfrom the tattered mess our relationship has become. He is happy to leave me. Thelast fifteen years meant so little to him that he can leave me behindhumming a merry tune all the way. I watch him from the porch of our home thatin an instant becomes just a house, a stack of bricks and mortar: a tomb of memories.He tosses his bag into the passenger seat as he climbs into his recently acquiredcherry red coupé.

The last sound before he heads off into his life after me is the resolute slamming of the car door. It is the saddest thing I everheard.

Be sure to check out the other WoW posts here.

Lightning

2011-11-20T19:13:00.001-05:00

He pulled the bill of his hat lower over his eyes, shook hishead once, twice, then nodded. Rolling his shoulders slowly back, he adjustedhis fingers. Two seam, it was his money ball. Sucking in a breath he steppedback, lifted his right leg, twisted at the waist, and let out a whoosh of air ashe dropped his shoulder letting it fly. He grinned discretelywhen the bat swung catching nothing but air, can’t hit lighting.

Link up your own LIGHTNING story here.
Check out past Five Sentence Fiction posts here.

Lillie

Five Sentence Fiction - Lightning

2011-11-17T17:07:00.001-05:00

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences onyour blog, and link up your post below. Also, be sure to check out the otherlink ups! Any feedback on Five Sentence Fiction is welcome!

Lillie

Picture found here.

A Writer's Treasure Hunt - Week Three

2011-11-17T11:00:00.001-05:00

After NaNoWriMo wraps up, we’ll all be proud ofourselves for our hard work, but also ready for a break. So, I would like togive away two books to one lucky winner as an end of November treat!

Cluesfor Week Two: The word you are looking for this week is three letterslong.

1) Head overto Maureen’s fantastic blog.

2) The firstletter can be found in the About section. It is the first letter of the month thecomments were written in.

3) On theopening page of the blog find her perfect take ‘On Writer’s Block’. The secondletter is the last letter in the second word.

4) FindMaureen’s post on ‘twitter jail’. Whatdoes she say being booted for a whole day is for someone with [her] affliction?The second letter is the fifth letter in that word.

Once you’ve hunted down this week’sword hold on to it and link up below so other treasure hunters can check outyour blog!

Ifyou need to catch up:

Thefirst week's word can be found here.

Thesecond week’s word can be found here.

Bestof luck,

Lillie

Conquering Fears

2011-11-15T21:37:00.001-05:00

Tonight I did something I always try to avoid at any cost.

The idea of talking to a group of people makes me lose sleep, no matter the group or the subject. In mypublic speaking class in college I considered it a success as long as I didn’tpass out during my speech. Whenever I present to a group my face heats up and turns a lovely shade of red. I hate it. I know people see it, but no matter how hard I try topsych myself out there’s nothing I can do to prevent it from happening.

Two weeks ago, a fellow NaNoWriMo participant invited me toa creative writing group near my house that meets once a week. When he asked I waselated – just the thing I’ve been looking for! But, then the reality of it setin. I would be sharing my writing, MY writing, to a group of other writers face to face.That is scary.

Well, I sucked it up and went to the meeting. I’m so glad I did.Red faced, with a shaky voice, I read out loud an excerpt of my NaNoWriMo novelto them. The responses rocked my socks! Also, the pieces everyone else readwere amazing. I never realized how much I could learn by listening todiscussions of writing, any writing. When I left I was giddy and proud ofmyself.

For me, it was truly a fear conquered. Can’t wait until nexttime!

Picture found here.

NaNoWriMo: Halfway There!

2011-11-13T00:26:00.001-05:00

It’s thirteen days into my first NaNoWriMo attempt, and I’mfeeling pretty good. Two hours ago I reached twenty-five thousand words. Halfway there! The best part - I adore my characters.

This is a new style of writing for me. It’s been a greatthing, because I often get stuck in an edit-as-I-go routine, which slows medown considerably. The need to reach a particular word count in a limited timeframe has forced me to dig in, put my head down, and keep typing.

It’s also my first time writing a novel with the assistanceof a detailed outline. Wow! I’m hooked. It was like nails on a chalkboard toget the outline done, but it was worth every second. I haven’t followed itexactly. I’ve left things out, added things, moved things around, but that’sthe way it goes. I am a definite reformed ‘pantser.’

Another huge contributor to my word count are my amazingTwitter buddies. Writers are a supportive, motivational group. They truly wanteach other to succeed and write their very best.

So, go visit some of these amazing writers!

Angela Goff

Angie Richmond

Becca Campbell

Cara Michaels

Stant Litore

Tonya

Where are you in your NaNoWriMo progress? What has helpedyou so far?

Delectable

2011-11-12T20:41:00.001-05:00

Smoothand creamy, a hint of shimmer, they are beautiful. His mouth waters thinkingabout the pink and plump perfection. It’s been two long days since he's had ataste, only able to daydream about how perfect they felt on his mouth. But, thehunger ends now, today. He smiles in anticipation as he leans forward to presshis lips gently to hers, delectable!

Link up your own delectable story here.

Lillie

Five Sentence Fiction - Delectable

2011-11-10T14:23:00.001-05:00

prettyprowler.blogspot.com

Write on Wednesday - We are learning to make fire

2011-11-09T22:23:00.000-05:00

Write On Wednesdays Exercise 23 - Write the words of Margaret Atwood at the top of your page "We are learning to make fire". Set your timer to 5 minutes. Write the first words that come into your head after the prompt. Stop when the buzzer rings.

A leaping, licking, luscious thing.

Flickers fly from heated skin, fireflies dancing in thewind.

Easy now.

Don’t look away, sparks turn to flames with a glance, acaress, a murmur.

A voracious, vicious, vibrant thing.

Feed the blaze, don’t let it wither to ash carried far anddistant by the wind.

Don’t drown it in a hurricane of tears.

Embrace it, be consumed by it, care for it.

Be bold.

Grab the frenzied warmth with both hands, let it catch yourheart ablaze.

Be sure to check out the other WoW posts here.

A Writer's Treasure Hunt - Week Two

2011-11-08T16:21:00.000-05:00

After NaNoWriMo wraps up, we’ll all be proud of ourselvesfor our hard work, but also ready for a break. So, I would like to give away twobooks to one lucky winner as an end of November treat!

The first book you can win is an autographed copy of The NaNoLand Chronicles By:Chris Baty. The second is a surprise that you will have to uncover. Each week in November I will post clues so that you can hunt down one ofthe words in the title of the mystery book.

After all clues are posted, the first ten people tounscramble the words, and comment with the correct book title, will go into adrawing to win both books! The winner will be announced on December 1, 2011.

Clues for Week Two: The word you are looking for this weekis five letters long.

1) Head over to Abby Fower's amazing blog.

2) The first letter can be found inAbby's post "Bits of Awesome" from 9-25-2011. Find the word ALSO inthe post. The letter you're looking for comes right after this.

3) Find the categories section ofAbby's blog. Click on "Blogs to See". The letter you're looking foris the 1st letter of the 12th word in the very last sentence of the post.

4) Next find Abby's 'eye candy'!!! Youneed the middle letter of the 9th word in the caption. Enjoy.

5) Check out her contest tab. Why notput in your suggestion while you're there? The letter you want is the 2ndletter in the 3rd subheading.

6) Last, find Abby's post fromNovember 7, 2011. You need the 3rd letter in this post's title.

Once you’ve hunted down this week’s word hold on to it and link up below so other treasure hunters can check out your blog!

If you need to catch up, the first week's word can be found here.

Best of luck,

Lillie

Bewitched

2011-11-05T14:29:00.001-04:00

“Sarah, stop looking at me like I'm a huge piece of ooey gooeychocolate cake.”

“You stop looking at me like I'm a mint condition Captain America comic book.”

His eyes sparkled with delight as he said, “Seriously, stop,you're creeping me out.”

“Can't, may never be able to,” she said, taking his hand.

“I love you too,” he replied, entwining their fingers.

Link up you're own bewitched story here.

Lillie

Five Sentence Fiction - Bewitched

2011-11-03T11:58:00.000-04:00

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences onyour blog, and link up your post below. Once you've posted, be sure to checkout the other posts. Any feedback on Five Sentence Fiction is welcome!

Lillie

A Writer's Treasure Hunt - Week One

2011-11-01T19:25:00.001-04:00

After NaNoWriMo wraps up, we’ll all be proud of ourselvesfor our hard work, but also ready for a break. So, I would like to give away twobooks to one lucky winner as an end of November treat!

The first book you can win is The NaNoLand Chronicles By:Chris Baty. The second is a surprise that you will have to uncover. Each week in November I will post clues so that you can hunt down one ofthe words in the title of the mystery book.

After all clues are posted, the first ten people tounscramble the words, and comment with the correct book title, will go into adrawing to win both books! The winner will be announced on December 1, 2011.

Clues for Week One: The word you are looking for this weekis three letters long.

1) Head over to Lora Rivera’s awesome blog.

2) The first letter can be found in Lora’s March2011 post "Turns out the Chicken was Bad." It is the first letter of the fifthword in the last sentence of the post.

3) Find Lora’s post from Friday, January 21, 2011.The letter you want is the first letter in this post’s title.

4) The second letter can be found in Lora’s August2011 post "A Little Calendar Fun." Find ‘How am I involved?’ The letter you’relooking for is the last letter in the word describing a four legged furrycreature.

Once you’ve hunted down this week’s word hold on to it and link up below so other treasure hunters can check out your blog!

Best of luck,

Lillie

Write on Wednesday - When the music's over.

2011-10-30T16:15:00.006-04:00

Write On Wednesdays Exercise 22 - Select a piece of music that reflects the mood of writing you'd like to aim for. Press play. Start free writing. Write the first words that come into your head. When the music's over, so is the writing. I'd recommend finding out how long the song is before you start the exercise. You may feel cheated in your writing time if you pick a song by The Ramones. Of course, if you feel like writing a short, punky piece by all means, go for it!

It’s like searching for the perfect seashell at low tide. Countless dozens crowd the beach, each with their own unique design. Some have been buffed smooth, aged by time and salt; others are worn jagged from rocks and heavy feet. Each fantastically flawed in its own way. I know if I look, the perfect seashell is out there waiting in the jumbled heap just for me. It’s not always an easy search. I must carefully pick through the other shells to find mine, and in the process I may be left with cuts or scars, but it's all part of the journey. Those wounds heal in time.

When I see my perfect seashell I’ll know. Over the rush of the waves, it will call to me from the sand demanding to be picked up, put it in my pocket and carried home. Once I’ve found it, all other seashells will pale in comparison. Their beauty and individual differences surely still appreciated, but I will always long to hold the one that washed up, and waited, just for me.

I long to find the seashell that’s mine all mine. I will clean off the salt, caress the edges, and forever keep it safe.

Be sure to check out the other WoW posts here!

Lillie

Horror!

2011-10-30T12:10:00.000-04:00

My heart beats faster, my hands are clammy, and I want to scream. I can’t even look it’s so horrible and grotesque. I’ve heard of this happening to others before, but you just never think it will happen to you. Especially not when I have the biggest, first date ever tonight.

Finally I make myself open my eyes and look at my reflection, and I still see the worst hair day in history!!!

Link up you're own five sentence horror story here.

The Versatile Blogger Award

2011-10-29T21:49:00.004-04:00

I have been given the Versatile Blogger Award by Krista at I Take the Pen. Yay!!!!

Now, I get to pass it on!

Here are the rules:

Thank the person who nominated you. Tell 7 things about yourself, so that your readers may learn more about you, and nominate 15 other newly discovered bloggers, then let them know you nominated them.

7 Things About Me

1. Tennis is my favorite sport! I am glued to my TV during any of the grand slams, and any time I can catch a Federer, Clisters, or Isner match. I also enjoy playing, quite badly, every chance I get.

My Boy Duke

2. A little over a year ago I moved to the beach, and this past summer I started paddle boarding. It is so much fun being out far enough to see the awesome creatures swimming around in the ocean up close. But, not too close!

3. I have a Boston Terrier, named Duke. He is firmly of the mind that he is in charge of our relationship, all 16 lbs of him, but pull out a tasty treat and he’ll do just about anything.

4. I get antsy when it’s too quiet. My favorite background noise is Ray Lamontagne, Andy McKee, Adele, and Grace Potter, but I will listen to almost anything with a tune. Singing loudly in my car, pretending I can carry my own tune, makes me look forward to driving to work.

5. This past March, I finished my first novel. It’s a romantic suspense set on Amelia Island, and I am constantly going back to edit it and thinking about editing it. Does this feeling ever go away?

6. I love receiving cards. I look forward to the card just as much as the gift on holidays. There is a box in the top of my closet filled with every card I’ve ever been given, organized by occasion. Because of my serious addiction, I spend hours in the greeting card aisle each time I get the chance to give a card to someone.

7. Earlier this year I took up quilting. Prior to that, I had never so much as sewn a button on a shirt. Now, I’m addicted to finding new patterns and fabrics.

Christmas quilt I'm working on.

Winners!

I am happy to pass this lovely award onto the following fantastic bloggers:

1. Stephanie at Madness of the Heart

2. Car at End’o the Road

3. Sif at At the Bottom of the Garden

4. Kate at Spring Days, New Growth

5. Claire at Quilt of Dragonflies

6. Tasha at Random Thoughts

7. Adam at Merry Wanderer of the Night

8. Eloise at The True Adventures of Eloise

9. Rain at Iridescent Rain

10. Kimberlee at Scraps & Sass

11. Kirsty at Bowerbird Blue

12. Raymund Hensley at Raymund Hensley

13. Kristy at House of Prowse

14. Tiffiny at My Peculiar Journey

15. Angie at Write Me Happy

NaNoWriMo Prepared!

2011-10-28T22:13:00.000-04:00

National Novel Writing Month is a new and exciting experience for me. I finished my first novel earlier this year. The first draft took much longer than 30 days, but I feel ready for the challenge of NaNoWriMo. The impending time crunch forced me to evaluate my writing process. I have completed a detailed outline, and have a clear vision of my novel, beginning, middle and end. Normally, I approach writing with a make it up as I go attitude, so the planning was daunting to me at first.

However, now that I have the outline, character profiles, and index cards full of random information, I feel more prepared to write this NaNoWriMo novel than anything I’ve ever written. I may just be a truly reformed ‘pantser’ now!I participate in a weekly writing prompt called Write on Wednesday. A few of us, who are taking on NaNoWriMo, were asked to write a short blurb on how we were preparing for the experience. Check out what the others are saying here.

If you’re planning to write 50,000 words in the month of November, I’d love to know what your plans and hopes for the experience are. Also, if you’re looking for ways to work on your writing each week be sure to check out Write on Wednesday and Five Sentence Fiction. It’s a great group of writers who will give you feedback and encouragement on your writing.

Five Sentence Fiction - Horror

2011-10-26T21:40:00.000-04:00

What it’s all about: Five Sentence Fiction is about packing a powerful punch in a tinyfist. Each week I will post a one word inspiration, then anyone wishing toparticipate will write a five sentence story based on the inspiration word. Theword does not have to appear in your five sentences, just take your inspirationfrom that word.

This week’s inspiration word is: HORROR

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences onyour blog, and link up your post below. Once you've posted, be sure to checkout the other posts. Any feedback on Five Sentence Fiction is welcome!

Bad Writing is Good

2011-10-25T22:46:00.000-04:00

“If you don't allow yourself the possibility of writing something very, very bad, it would be hard to write something very good.”

Steven Galloway

I have a nasty habit of taking myself too seriously. Or, rather, taking my writing too seriously. I don’t always have to have on matching socks, the most fashionable shirts, or be in touch with hot trends. I’m perfectly fine with my awkwardness. If I trip on my way into the store, that’s okay. Sometimes the pavement gets in my way. Cooking is always an experiment, and I will certainly fail at math without a calculator. Those things I’m at peace with. I’m flawed. Who isn’t?

But, until recently, I was unable to laugh at my writing. Well, unless I was sure I had written something full of comic genius. That quote by Steven Galloway is something every writer should have in 25pt Times New Roman painted on the wall above their desk.

I have notebooks full of ramblings and notes on novels I would like to write. For years, I carried around the idea for my first novel in my head, afraid that if I sat down to write it I would mess it up. It was such a beautiful story, with characters I loved, as long as it was in my head. I didn’t trust myself to recreate the plotting and dialogue without losing some of the spark in translation.

Then, life stepped in. In 2009, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. That’s not exactly something anyone wants to hear, but it is what it is. Everyone has something they deal with. Anyway, I’ve figured out, mostly, how to live with this disease and have adjusted my life accordingly.

I am certain, without the MS, I may have never written that first novel. I had to quit working for a while to get my symptoms under control. In the span of that year I wrote down all of the action that had been stored in my brain for the past five years. The sense of satisfaction in finishing that novel is without equal. It’s hardly literary genius, I am constantly thinking of things that need work, and my query letter is still a painful work in progress, but I am no longer a girl with just an idea, I have a completed manuscript. I am now working on my second, where I am putting all the lessons of what-not-to-do that I learned from the first novel to good use.

Write on Wednesday - I thought I saw

2011-10-25T13:13:00.001-04:00

Write On Wednesdays Exercise 20 - Write the words " I thought I saw" at the top of your page. Set a timer for 5 minutes. Write the first words that come into your head after the prompt. Don't take you pen off the page (or fingers off the keyboard). Stop only when the buzzer rings! Do this exercise over and over if you wish. Write beyond 5 minutes if you like, you can link it up as an extra post.

Always looking for any reason to hope, I cradle his words close so that I can replay them over and over again. He thinks I am wonderful, brilliant, and a great friend. If it weren’t for the friend part, this would be as good as a marriage proposal to me. I am on alert for a sparkle in his eye, telling tug of his mouth, anything to validate my heart’s reaction to him. We’ve been friends for seven years now. I have detailed memories of every second spent together. Dinners with his family, meeting his boss, helping him move last year when he got the job. Not a day goes by without his phone call. We talk about his day, my day, when we’ll see each other next. I can’t stop the school girl grinning anytime I think of him.

He’s not mine though, except in my heart. We’re just friends. Although, that’s temporary. It’s not the right time. He’s got a lot going on with the new job now, so maybe when he gets settled he’ll be ready to get serious. That’s what I tell myself. He loved the tie I bought him to wear on his first day. Said it was his good luck charm.

Friends say I’m pathetic, deserve more, should move on. My head knows they’re right, but my heart won’t listen.

Besides, yesterday I thought I saw something...

Be sure to check out the other WoW posts:!

Shenanigans

2011-10-22T15:12:00.001-04:00

Amy smiled over her glass of orange juice at Lisa, smug in her ability to dupe her dad once again. Nope, he so didn’t have a clue they’d snuck out of the house last night. In another life, she and Lisa could’ve been cat burglars.

Stifling a giggle as her dad walked into the kitchen, she said, “Morning Dad!”

“You’re grounded,” he replied.

Link up your own Five Sentence Fiction and read the others here.

Five Sentence Fiction - Shenanigans

2011-10-19T22:53:00.000-04:00

What it’s all about: Five Sentence Fiction is about packing a powerful punch in a tiny fist. Each week I will post a one word inspiration, then anyone wishing to participate will write a five sentence story based on the inspiration word. The word does not have to appear in your five sentences, just take your inspiration from that word.

This week’s inspiration word is: SHENANIGANS

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below. Once you've posted, be sure to check out the other posts. Any feedback on Five Sentence Fiction is welcome!

Write on Wednesday - Sunshine in a Cup

2011-10-17T18:32:00.000-04:00

Write On Wednesdays Exercise 19 - Sunshine in a cup. Write the words of Emily Dickinson: "Bring me sunshine in a cup" at the top of your page. Set a timer for 5 minutes. Write the first words that come into your head after the prompt. Don't take you pen off the page (or fingers off the keyboard). Stop only when the buzzer rings! Do this exercise over and over if you wish. Write beyond 5 minutes if you like, you can link it up as an extra post.

Drowning in the pool of bitter memories swallowing up my soul, I frantically tread. Flailing my sweeter memories about, willing them to sprout feathers to haul me from this vortex of agony, I search for a brighter place. But, these slick talons relentlessly grasp at me from every angle, pulling me towards the darkest of the dark. To a place light has never touched. A place without a glimmer or a shine, a rise or a set, a smile or a delight. As my toe unwillingly inches over the precipice, leaving drag lines in the water, a face flashes across my crippled mind. A face full of optimism, blue eyes big as saucers, and a pale pink bow of a mouth. She tosses me a rope, determined that I will use it to pull myself from the void. I strain to hear her words, as I see her mouth moving, but the wild whooshing whip of emotions drowns out all other sound. Widening my eyes, I read those sweet lips saying ‘I’ve got you Mama,’ and know I can tread forever or choose to pull myself from here and refill my soul with the sunshine of her heart.

Bloggers to Blog About

2011-10-16T21:23:00.000-04:00

Just nearing the two month mark, I’m still a blogging novice in many ways. Thankfully, along the way, I have found many blogs packed with valuable information. The amazingly talented people behind those blogs have helped me tremendously.

A few of my favorites that are not to be missed:

J.A Bennet at A Book, A Girl, A Journey
Her blog is packed to the brim with information on blogging, tweeting, and writing, with a spicy side of humor.

Stephanie at Madness of the Heart
An amazing writer. I always enjoy reading her poetic prose.

Adam at Merry Wanderer of the Night
I look forward to reading Adam’s blog and his take on Write on Wednesday. Soulful, honest, and humorous.

Gill at InkPaperPen
Home of Write on Wednesday. Great weekly prompts to get you writing.

Abby at Something to Write About
An entertaining, informational award winning blog.

There are many other bloggers I've been inspired by, and I'm thankful to all of them. Writers rock!!!

Jubilant

2011-10-14T21:16:00.001-04:00

Five Sentence Fiction: Jubilant

Face turned upward, she smiled triumphantly as the sun warmly caressed her skin. In the beginning, it felt like those five years would go on for an eternity. Now she just wanted to wrap her arms around them, hold them close, and never let them go. Those years turned into memories, and now armed with the knowledge she'd aquried, she had new memories to make. Older, wiser, prouder than she’d ever been, she stepped up to shake the outstretched hand, grasp the hard earned diploma, and head out to place her personal stamp on the world.

Five Sentence Fiction Week Two - Jubilant

2011-10-13T14:27:00.000-04:00

What it’s all about: Five Sentence Fiction is about packing a powerful punch in a tiny fist. Each week I will post a one word inspiration, then anyone wishing to participate will write a five sentence story based on the inspiration word. The word does not have to appear in your five sentences, just take your inspiration from that word.

This week’s inspiration word is: JUBILANT

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your sentences on your blog, and link up your post below. Once you've posted, be sure to check out the other posts. Any feedback on Five Sentence Fiction is welcome!

Embracing Chaos

2011-10-11T19:58:00.002-04:00

I am an absolute control freak. I need things just so in order to function properly. There are times when I let my control issues keep me from writing. Seemingly simple things will throw me off. Like if the desk isn’t as clean as I’d like, the curor is blinking too fast - almost mocking, or the dictionary is sitting on top of the thesaurus. When clearly the thesaurus should be on top because it’s smaller; That’s just how the universe meant things to be.

There are other things, outside of the harmony of my writing space, that keep me from writing. Conflict in my life, from a bad day at work to a nasty note from the mailman about where I park my car, can throw my whole writing mood askew. I’ve been fostering a Daschund for the past month, and today his adoptive parents took him home. He is a very special dog that will make an excellent addition to their family. I’m heartbroken that he’s gone, but I know he will be well taken care of.

So, today as I let myself shed a tear or twenty over this precious dog leaving, I realized that real life and emotions are what make writing great. It’s not about everything being perfect. How boring would that book be? If I embrace the chaos, harness it’s power, it will just enhance my writing rather than hurt. I must get over my need for everything to be just so and write through the irritation, anger, or tears.

I’m curious if there are things that keep you from writing? And, if so, what do you do about it?

Write on Wednesday - Make it better

2011-10-10T15:22:00.001-04:00

Write On Wednesdays Exercise 18 - Look through your previous WoW posts (or select a short writing piece that you would like to work on). Read through your piece carefully and let's attempt to make it better. Look for redundant words, cliches or overused phrases. Chop and change. This is not an exercise in word count, it's not about simply whittling it down. Make it a better piece of writing. Post your original and edited piece. THEN, throw it to the*wolves. Ask for advice from WoWers. With help you can make your writing shine.

I chose a small section from the first chapter of my WIP that has bothered me lately.

Original:

         A few tears swept down the slopes of her cheeks, and she nodded forlornly, “You’re right. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have come here. I had no right.”
         His heart clenched recognizing her raw pain, but instead of softening it made him angrier. “Damn straight you had no right. I don’t know what game you’re playing, but I’m not interested. Either you wanted to be with me or you didn’t. Either you loved me or you didn’t. You, all by yourself, for your own reasons, decided you didn’t want or love me. I wasn’t even important enough to rate an explanation. I used to want to know, but honestly I don’t care anymore. It’s over. Just like you wanted.   You shouldn’t be here. There’s nothing left to say.”
         She stared at him in stunned silence for a moment. He’d never said those things to her before. Never been so blatantly hurtful. This Ethan wasn’t the man she’d fallen in love with. Her Ethan was level headed, funny, tender, and always mindful of how his words could effect someone. What had she done? Had he become this way because of her? “Ethan, I’m sorry…I’m…just so sorry.”
       Fumbling for composure, she stood to leave. She looked down at him like she had more to say, but just shrugged, turned sharply and jogged the distance back to her car.
       Coward. She was a damn coward. She ran when she should’ve stayed. She deserved every flicker of anger that flashed in his eyes.

Edited:

       Four tears escaped, tracing down the slopes of her cheeks. Each tear carried the weight of the past eight months. Savannah swiped them away quickly, not wanting him to see. She hadn’t come here for his sympathy. At least she didn’t think so. Why had she come?
       “You’re right. And, I’m sorry. I don’t know why I’m here,” she whispered.
       As Ethan watched the tears stream down her face, he felt each one like a sucker punch to the gut, but instead of softening they left him angrier. “Damn straight you had no right. I don’t know what game you’re playing, but I’m not interested in your twisted version of love anymore, Savannah. Either you wanted to be with me or you didn’t. Either you loved me or you didn’t. You, all by yourself, for your own reasons, decided we were done. I wasn’t even important enough to rate an explanation. I’ll be honest, I used to need to know so much I thought I’d go crazy not knowing, but honestly I don’t care anymore. It’s over. Just like you wanted. You shouldn’t be here. There’s nothing left to say.”
         She stared at him through the fog of hate his words left hanging thickly between them. He’d never said those things to her before. Never been so blatantly hurtful. This Ethan wasn’t the man she’d fallen in love with. Her Ethan was level headed, funny, tender. What had she done? Had he become this way because of her? “Ethan, I’m sorry…I’m…just so sorry.”
        Fumbling for composure, she stood to leave. She looked down at him wanting to tell him everything. Maybe he would understand. No, she had been right not to tell him, that was the single thing she was sure of. Unable to stand the stark despair playing across his face, she stood and quickly jogged the distance back to her car.
       Coward. She was a coward. She ran when she should stay. She deserved every flicker of anger that flashed in his eyes, but running had become an unwelcome habit, her only weapon.

Be sure to check out the other posts for Write on Wednesday

Taking Flight

2011-10-09T19:27:00.000-04:00

This is the only poem I've ever attempted. When I was in college, it was published in our literary magazine. I use poem loosly because it is a craft I've never honed. Enjoy!

Wildly wandering wherever the wind flows.
Firm foundations further from grasp blows .
Meaning muddled by manic material phases.
Savvy soul searching surfaces melancholic faces.
Bravely blundering burdened by inescapable disgraces.
Learning life leaves lesions only love replaces.

Five Sentence Fiction - Delirious

2011-10-06T21:25:00.000-04:00

For the past two weeks I've participated in Words on Wednesday. If you haven't visited Gill's amazing blog, check it out!! I've enjoyed WoW so much, I wanted to create something similar on my blog that would be a quick, fun weekly writing exercise.

Five Sentence Fiction has been one of the ideas that keeps coming back to me. It's about packing a powerful punch in a tiny fist. Each week I will post a one word inspiration, then anyone wishing to participate will write a five sentence story based on the inspiration word. The word does not have to appear in your five sentences, just take your inspiration from that word.

This week's inspiration word is: DELIRIOUS

My contribution for this week:

"From my perch on the log, I watched the squirrels watching me. Between us sat one fat, rugged brown nut. We were all thinking the same thing. Who would get to that nut first? But, when I lunged the squirrels vanished, taking their nut with them, and my eyes fluttered to reveal stark white walls, a nurse, and curious looking monitors."

I look forward to reading everyone's five sentences. Post your Five Sentences on your blog, and link up your post below. Once you've posted your Five Senteces, be sure to check out the other blogs. Any feedback on Five Sentence Fiction is welcome!

Happy Writing!

Write on Wednesday: Choose your own adventure!

2011-10-03T19:45:00.003-04:00

Write On Wednesdays Exercise 17: This week, we are going with Karen's idea for an open choice week. So take a look at the old writing exercises (you can find them listed in my sidebar: WoW Writing Exercises), find one you'd like to try (or retry!) and link it up to the linky below. Short and simple instructions this week. If time is an issue perhaps you would like to try one of the 5 minute stream of consciousness exercises.

This being just my second week participating in WoW, I was excited to be able to do an exercise from a previous week. I chose: Write On Wednesdays Exercise 3 - I remember: Write "I remember" at the top of your page. Set a timer for 5 minutes. Use "I remember" as your prompt and write down the first words that come into your head for 5 minutes. Stop when the buzzer rings!...

I remember when I would leave my house giving no thought to anyone but myself, when I filled my pantry with food only I wanted to eat. I remember when all my shoes were safe, my leashes for surfboards, and my leftover plastic bags for banana peels or watermelon rinds.

I remember when my couch was free of hair, my floor pristine and shiny, my pockets empty of crumbs.

I remember the day I learned to worry about the safety of my shoes, my couch growing a beard, or mystery spots on my floor. It was the same day I found complete, unconditional devotion in a wriggling, black and white package.

I remember the day I fell in love.

My Love-Hate Relationship with And

2011-09-29T21:22:00.001-04:00

Two weeks ago, I began a final edit of my first manuscript. About the third paragraph in, I felt like I was reading it for the very first time--I’ve read it about seven times. Turns out I have a real problem with the word AND. I must have used it every third heartbeat while I was writing. I used it where I should simply have put a comma, period, or nothing at all.

After editing my way through the rest of it, taking out about sixty or so dozen ANDs, I am amazed how much smoother it reads. That I read it so many times without ever noticing that glaring problem was disturbing. But, it’s fixed now! As I’m working on this new book, I’ve been hyper vigilant not to let the same thing happen. I’ve learned my lesson. While I think AND is an important word, obviously needed, there are definite advantages to finding a way to write around it.

Now, I’m curious if anyone else has a problem word?

Write on Wednesday: Songbird

2011-09-26T22:19:00.002-04:00

This is my first time doing Write on Wednesdays. I'm excited to get started!

"The Write On Wednesday Rules: Get creative with the writing exercises - there isn't a right or wrong. Please do try to visit the other members of Write On Wednesdays and leave a comment.

Write On Wednesdays Exercise 16:
Hadge says: Take a favorite (or even random play) song and write the story behind the lyrics, not something inspired by the lyric, but the flesh on the bones of the story. It gives lots of scope for interpretative writing. Use the lyrics or theme of a song for a piece of flash fiction (50 to 200 words). To clarify, write your version of the story behind the lyrics in a song"

Be sure to check out the other writers: http://inkpaperpen.blogspot.com/2011/09/songbirdits-write-on-wednesday.html

I chose to write about my favorite song of the moment: Grace Potter's "Medicine." Listen here:

He stopped talking when she walked in the door. He sat up straighter, forgot I was sitting across from him, and sat down his beer. As she sashayed through the crowd, men everywhere seemed to zero in on the silky hair, shapely hips and crimson lips. They stared, drooled, panted. She was a walking illusion. Sex in heels.

I knew the moment it happened. Her eyes met my husband’s as she glided her way past the other hungry men, focused only on him. Whispering silky words she took his hand, seducing him to the dance floor. Without a backward glance in my direction, he went willingly after his new drug of choice.

She may be what he thinks he wants, but I am not a woman to sit back watching what I love taken from me. Head held high, I sauntered over to where they danced. She saw me coming, eyes locking with mine in challenge. But, I had the one thing she didn’t: His heart. Reaching them I focused on my husband, took his chin, forcing my stupid man to look me in the eye. All it took was one look to remind him that she was fleeting, but I was forever.

I took back what was mine, threw her out of the bar, and put on those heels myself.

No Sycophants Allowed!

2011-09-23T22:22:00.001-04:00

When I began the process of finding an agent I purchased a book called Putting Your Passion into Print, by Arielle Eckstut and David Henry Sterry. I would recommend this book to anyone looking to be published. It is as entertaining as it is educational.

One of my favorite entries in the book is about getting feedback on your manuscript. Should you let other people read it? Who should you let read it? What do you expect from them? They sum it up by saying, “stay away from obsequious sycophants! The last thing you want is people telling you your proposal/manuscript is good when it’s not. Be sure to let people know you want the you’ve-got-a-wart truth.”

I was reminded of the American Idol hopefuls who faithfully line up for hours each year only to be turned down. I always wonder why their support system failed them? Where were the friends and family to say, “we love you, but maybe this isn't your thing. Let's find what you are amazing at. Or, let's get you some lessons.” If any of my brother’s ever set their sights on going on national TV and singing, I would have to dash their dreams firmly. Musical talent is a gene that was left out of my family’s make-up, sadly. However, that doesn’t stop us from singing! We just restrict it to the shower, car, or one drink too many karaoke night.

With this in mind, I have only let three people read my entire manuscript. I was careful to choose people I felt would be honest, even if it hurt. Because, this is my dream, and I’d never want to put my name on tone deaf writing. While I would always recommend listening with an open mind to anyone’s suggestions or concerns about your writing, it’s also important not to lose your voice trying to follow everyone’s advice. Take the critiques, learn from them, use them, but stay true to yourself at the same time. At least, that’s what I’m trying to do.

So, who do you get feeback from?

What's in a Name?

2011-09-20T21:27:00.001-04:00

I spend a lot of time thinking about what to name my characters. Sometimes certain names stick out for different reasons. It can be that a name conjures up images of a sweet, caring person or a not so sweet, caring person. If a character changes as I write, perhaps turns evil, when at the start they were meant to be a neutral character, I change their name.

Researching names, what they mean, what time period they were most popular is fun to me. I really enjoy that part of my research when writing. But, I’ve often wondered if all the time spent on names is time well spent. When I read books the names are important to me, too. If I don’t like the name, sometimes I will change it in my head. If the name is difficult to say, I will shorten it.

I’m curious if other readers or writers have these name issues? Do you ever read books where the name just doesn’t fit for you? Or, do you ever change the names of characters while reading a book?

Cliff Jumping

2011-09-18T20:42:00.001-04:00

I’ve often heard it said that great writing comes from sadness and heartache. Numerous authors, producing what became great works of fiction, were thought of as tormented artists. Through their works they expressed the grief or madness so present in their everyday lives. Edgar Allen Poe is one of the most prominent examples of this phenomenon. Another is Charlotte Perkins Gilman. Her well known short story “The Yellow Wallpaper” is one of my all time favorites. It is a journey through a woman’s battle with mental illness, and the way her husband’s ignorance contributes to her spiral into madness. If you’ve never read it check it out: http://www.library.csi.cuny.edu/dept/history/lavender/wallpaper.html

While I fully buy into this theory, and the proven results of literary genius, I believe happiness and joy lend to great writing equally. Although, perhaps in different ways. The journey to becoming a published writer is difficult, and at times downright depressing. But, when I become impatient with the process or doubtful of my abilities I am renewed by the people around me. As with most things, a solid support system is invaluable. I have this support system through close family and friends. When I have a day where I feel like shredding my manuscript and recycling my computer, I only have to call one of them to be reminded that all good things come through hard work.

If you are trying to climb that seemingly impossible publishing mountain, I encourage you to find your motivator. Following a dream can feel like jumping off a cliff, but like most adrenaline sports, the fun can’t begin until you jump.

Thank you to all of my motivators!

Character Driven

2011-09-14T22:25:00.003-04:00

I often wonder where in the world authors get their ideas. Some of my favorite novels are simple stories of tragedy, love and triumph. Others are outrageous tales of suspense and impossible adventures. But, in all of these the defining quality that pulls me in, and keeps me going back for more, are the characters. While I spend hours and hours and hours pouring over the intricacies of plot, I truly feel it would be all an exercise in futility without relatable and endearing characters that the reader can champion.

Most of the time when movies or books become timeless it’s because of the stand-out characters. Characters like Huck Finn, Jay Gatsby, Scarlett O’Hara, and even Harry Potter. Each of these characters are different, with their own triumphs and troubles, but the thing that ties them are the ways they impact our lives and our thinking.

At times I will say I just feel like finding a book that’s an ‘easy read.’ Meaning I don’t want to have to think too much. I just want to get lost in a fun story. Often these so-called ‘easy reads’ are the most entertaining. But, just as in Great American Novels these stories are held up by outstanding characters that I want to spend time with, getting to know, cry with, and laughing with.

So, I guess what I’m trying to say here is that, to me, character development is one of the most important aspects of creating a novel with staying power.

Persistent Characters

2011-09-13T12:25:00.002-04:00

Today I sat down to work on my new novel, but was quickly distracted by thoughts of the characters in my completed novel. I kept thinking about Ella and Riley, and new conversations or adventures they could have. They were running through my mind, until I had to give them my full attention. I put away the new work and went back to the old, supposed to be completed, novel.

So, for three hours this morning I worked on it, adding over two thousand new words before I was done. I truly am happy with the result from each addition. I’m glad I listened to them, but it left me wondering what will happen once the book is published. Will I ever feel it’s complete, needing no changes or additions? I suppose like most art forms, the artist can always find a flaw or a way to enhance the final product. Maybe it’s that Ella and Riley are the first characters I created that ended in a completed manuscript, that I have such a difficult time letting them go.

It made me think that these two characters might need a sequel. Maybe they have another story that needs to be told. How exciting!

What I Write

2011-09-10T09:30:00.002-04:00

When it comes to reading, I am a fan of just about everything. I have dozens of favorite authors. Some of my favorites are F. Scott Fitzgerald, Dean Koontz, Sandra Brown and Heather Graham. But, I have been influenced in my own writing by so many others. When I read now it’s part entertainment, part education. As I read through books I jot down things that interest me, new words, new ways to structure sentences or chapters. By the end of the book I’ve thought of half a dozen ways the query letter for the book would have been written.

While my reading tastes vary, I am most comfortable writing Romantic Suspense. A true sucker for romance, I wouldn’t know how to write an entire book without it. I enjoy the process of building the relationship and the way love can make a strong character even stronger. But, the suspense is just as important to me. Each time I come up with a new idea for a novel, the first focus and thought is about the antagonist. What kind of villain will they be? What will their motivation be? And, most importantly, how will they change my main characters? How will they make them stronger, and how will they be overcome?

Currently, I’m working on a novel set on Amelia Island, FL. The romance comes from a broken, seemingly irreparable, relationship. Their biggest hurdle is a life changing secret. However, like in most romantic suspense novels, the chaos surrounding them eventually paves the road to rebuilding the broken relationship. What’s fun about writing is that even when the very base of the novel seems ordinary, it’s your characters and how they get where they’re going that make it extraordinary. I am drawn to funky characters and characters who are a little bit unusual. Who have issues and quirks, but strong moral compasses and goals.

At the end of it all I want my novel to be one that a reader can get lost in. The characters should become a reader's friends and enemies. I love when I finish reading a book and miss the characters. That’s my hope for anyone who reads my writing.

Query Letter Top Five

2011-09-08T15:34:00.001-04:00

Writing a query letter, a great query letter, has been a trial and error experience for me. But, along the way I found some amazing blogs and websites filled with must have information.

My top five Do’s in a query letter:
1. Do sleep on it. Take a day and revisit a query letter before sending it out.
2. Do have someone read it. Always have a trusted friend give feedback on your query letter.
3. Do pay close attention. Never send out a query letter before giving it a thorough spelling and grammar check.
4. Do get to the heart. Queries are not a place to leave the agent asking questions. They want to know how you tie up the story at the end.
5. Do put your genre and word count in the letter.

My top five Blogs/Websites for researching how to write query letters:
1. http://www.write-and-publish-fiction.com/
2. http://agentquery.com/
3. http://pubrants.blogspot.com/
4. http://bookendslitagency.blogspot.com/
5. http://queryshark.blogspot.com/

Hope in Rejection

2011-09-05T22:06:00.001-04:00

Today I received my first official rejection from an agent. It will certainly be the first of many; Just part of the process. I’ve had many rejections in response to query letters, but this is the first from an agent who requested additional material. The agent’s website advised to allow up to twelve weeks for a response. It took almost nine weeks to the day. So, for nine weeks I had hope. Now, I just have this letter.

There was encouragement embedded in the ‘no thanks,’ though! The agent said, “[my] writing is good, and the imagination behind it is great, but [she] just was not passionate enough about this project to ask to see more. [She] found that [my] dialogue, characters, and plot were fine and well-crafted.” I was grateful she added the positives she saw in my work. It definitely helped to soften the blow!

I am energized by this rejection for a few reasons: I feel legitimate now that I’ve officially been rejected. It’s fantastic to know that someone who is completely immersed in the field found some merit to my work. And finally, most importantly, even though it stung a little, this did not at all make me doubt myself as a writer. It did not make me want to slow down at all, rather it made me all the more determined to go out and get rejected again and again until I find that one agent who is equally as passionate about my story as I am. Because, that’s what’s important. This agent rejected me for the right reasons! She could love my writing, but if she’s not ‘feeling’ my work then she’s not the best person to represent it. It’s important to remember agents have to be true to their own passions just as writers do.

When is it enough?

2011-09-03T15:08:00.001-04:00

For years when I had a thought I would jot down a sentence or two in my blue and pink “novel” notebook. I wrote about who my characters were, their favorite things, things that made them cringe and the things their hearts yearned for most. Even before I had written the first chapter the novel was a part of me. When I finally had the opportunity to sit down and write and write and write it was amazing. Most of the time the words flowed easily and chapter after chapter piled up neatly because I knew these people very well; I knew their story as well as my own and I was excited to share their lives.

About ten months after I wrote the opening sentence I had a complete manuscript. But, it was my first and, being a novice, I had many doubts and insecurities about my writing. Was it enough? Enough words, enough description, enough to hold a reader’s interest? So, for the next few months I revised and rewrote. I even changed one of the character’s names. Some days this novel was all I could think about. I wanted everyone I know to read it and give me feedback.

It took a long time for me to decide it was truly finished. At least finished for me. I know the revising process will start again when an agent, editor or publisher gets their hands on it, but that is something I’m very much looking forward to being involved with. Right now, it feels like I started a new job and worked for 18 months without my boss telling me how I am doing, where I need improvement and where my strengths lie. I still think about those characters and that novel, but now my focus is on my second story. I am only five chapters in and I already know this novel is stronger than the first. More than anything I hope to have each novel I write published, but in the end if my first novel, Ella and Riley’s story, becomes the best lesson in novel writing I ever had I will consider my time spent on that manuscript an overwhelming success.

Always Write!

2011-08-30T21:33:00.001-04:00

At times I have a problem silencing the writer. For example, I can be in line at the local supermarket and I’m studying the cashier. What kind of character would they be? What are their goals, quirks and weaknesses? In my mind I’m running dialogue between this cashier, who I’ve named Melanie, and her best friend. Melanie found five thousand dollars cash in her husband’s tackle box. She knew fishing couldn’t be that costly a hobby so why would he have this kind of cash? For two months straight they’ve struggled to pay the power bill, among other things, so why was he holding out? They must be after him again. She hopes they won't have to move.

The story is cut off when the cashier politely reminds me that I have to hit YES on the card reader to accept the purchase. I’m holding up the line. Again. Sometimes I get lost between where reality begins and fiction ends. It’s a thin, thin line. Inspiration is everywhere. The next great character could be sitting on the bench beside you at the bus stop.

For this reason, people sometimes view me as shy and maybe even a bit antisocial. When really they would be right, but not because I’m afraid of people or because I dislike people. Quite the opposite; I study people. They fascinate me. My family would simply say that I’m weird, but show me one writer who’s not a little, well, different. But, we’re okay with that. One of my favorite things to say is “I’m much better on paper.” It happens to be true. Most of the time I feel socially awkward, even a little out of place, because there aren’t many situations where I’m not writing in my head, creating dialogue to go with a new idea that just hit me.

Last year I had the amazing opportunity to hear Sandra Brown speak in Savannah, GA. She is hands down one of my favorite authors. So, when she said she can’t always silence the writer in her head I decided maybe it wasn’t such a problem after all.

The Dreaded Query

2011-08-28T22:41:00.002-04:00

It starts with hours of research. Which, as long as you’re a writer, you’re probably good at anyway. So, that’s a breeze. My go to website is http://agentquery.com/default.aspx . Most agencies have websites now, and you can find links to them directly from this site. Agents generally prefer your submissions by email, and a growing number will not accept snail mail queries at all. Find out which agents enjoy the same literary leanings as you, and then find out their submission requirements.

Query letters are clearly the work of the devil. They may be evil, but they are the necessary kind. They are your literary foot in the door. Stop by Publix and purchase a large supply of your favorite chocolate, or whatever happens to be your personal stress reliever, then research some more. This time focus on how to write the perfect a query letter. This one page summary of what you and your novel are about is almost as important as the manuscript itself. Do not ever take this lightly, and never send it without sleeping on it and revising, sleeping, revising.

This is a great list of some Do’s and Don’s to get started with: http://www.writing.com/main/view_item/item_id/844651-How-to-Write-a-Query-Letter
Pick your query letter apart by word, sentence, paragraph. Make it the best, most persuasive, morsel you’ve ever written. When the agent finishes reading the first paragraph they should be salivating to read your book. Above all make the letter grammatically flawless and give it a reason to shine above the rest. This is the agent’s first taste of your writing. Make it a delicious one!

Happy writing!

Hello World!

2011-08-25T13:36:00.002-04:00

For a year I sat diligently at my desk, assaulting my keyboard and overusing linking verbs. Now, I have a novel that’s complete. Beginning to end. Written entirely by me.

Each word was placed with purpose. Every sentence was arranged and rearranged for proper impact. Without a doubt writing is a labor of love. Some days the page fills up before you even realize you’re thinking, but other days you watch the steady blink of the cursor for hours waiting for inspiration. Blank pages can be your best friend and your worst enemy.

It’s an extreme sense of achievement to complete a novel. Seeing the manuscript printed out, bound together was proof that, yeah, I can actually do this.

Turns out writing the novel was the easy part. Where to go from “the end” is really the tough part. No one ever talks about what happens to Cinderella after she rides off into the sunset with her prince charming. That’s a story worth telling. Well, only if her life is filled with intrigue, she remains the strong woman we know and love, and prince charming doesn’t get a beer gut. My own story following “the end” has yet to be written. That’s exciting and anxiety inducing. That’s why I’m sitting here writing now, telling the after story. I’m fairly certain my novel doesn’t suck. Some days I’m even convinced it’s quite good.

So, what do you do with both free minutes in your day once you’ve written your first novel, are steady working to get it published, and hard at work on your second novel? Start a blog of course!

My hope for this blog is a mutual, respectful and enlightening sharing of information that any aspiring author needs to know. Through my journey I hope to make the road slightly less rocky for another writer.

Lillie