What an exciting time it was to be in New York! My Aunt Dorothy and her friend, Jack, were great hosts and the Rockettes rocked! My brain is on overload with all the wonderful sights of the city...epecially at Christmas. You'd think with all the walking we did I would have lost at least 10 pounds...but we also ate wonderfully delicious food...Gi Gi's Cafe is awsome! And Jack's kosher veal meatballs were incredible! Did you know there are 72 steps up from the street (72nd Street) to Aunt Dororthy's apartment door on the 4th floor? She climbs them everyday! No wonder she is in such great shape and has enjoyed such a long life!
Flying was another experience...let's just say there were a few challenges. Shortly after Bob took me to the airport in Omaha, the snow began to fall...and fall...and fall. There was a lot of activity around the check in counter and finally the announcement telling us that our flight was not taking off because the pilot refunsed to fly unless there was a break in the storm. I knew this would mean that I wouldn't make my connection in Detroit, so I called the airline to see what could be done. Within minutes my connecting flight was rescheduled...problem solved...I thought. Well, there was no break in the storm and the plane was still on the ground waiting to be boarded. I realized I wouldn't make the new connecting flight so I called again to reschedule. This time I was too late to get the soonest connection and had to take the next available flight which would get me into New York around 10:15...I took it. I felt so bad that my aunt and Jack would have to drive so late to the airport and offered to just take a cab...but they wouldn't hear of it and would be there for me. I was so glad to see them when I arrived at LGA. I thought for sure the flight home would be better because the weather in New York was fine. I boarded the plane on time, but it didn't take off for 45 minutes...which meant I would once again miss my connecting flight in Detroit. When we landed in Detroit I called the airline and they confirmed that I would probably miss the connection as I only had about 7 minutes to get to the gate which was a whole other terminal area, but they assured me I would be on the next flight...IN THE MORNING!!!! AUGH!!! I got off the flight and ran to the other terminal. (It's a good thing I did as much walking in New York as I did so I could run my marathon at DTW!) When I arrived at the departing gate, the plane was still there and people were de-boarding. Apparently, the plane only had one pilot and couldn't take off. They realized this AFTER everyone had boarded so they had everyone exit the plane while they located another pilot...lucky for me...but the other passengers weren't as happy. I was thrilled! Maybe I wouldn't have to spend the night at the Detroit airport after all! I had called Bob and he told me there was a storm supposed to hit Omaha later that night. If I ended up staying overnight I might have been stuck even longer! Anyway, they found a pilot, we took off and got to Omaha and I made it home...YAY! While on the flight, I had an enjoyable conversation with a sweet young woman...Ashley, my prayers are with you.
I am still trying to grasp the emotional impact this little trip to New York has had. I feel as if part of me is still there and I am still trying to reconnect. The time I had with my aunt was priceless. She has a smile that can light up the darkest subway coach and her energy amazes me. She made me feel young, but created an excitement about growing old...I could barely keep up with her. Our time together was like a big slumber party...including sharing make-up and the talk about "boys"! I took many notes!
I will write more about New York again soon.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
S.A.S.E.
I have learned that when you really want someone to reply to you one of the best ways to encourage this is to include a self-addressed stamped envelope in the correspondence. I have done this with my children and grandchildren and for the most part it is effective. I may not hear back right away, but eventually they discover the envelope buried beneath some papers or stuffed in a drawer and send it back with a short letter or drawing. In the case of my youngest daughter, they have yet to come back...but I will continue sending and hoping...and praying.
Once, I included a SASE in a card to my youngest brother (estranged from the family) and he simply used it to send the card right back to me...no note...just the card...funny. I guess it was his way of letting me know he is still alive, but nothing more. I have also included them in query letters to publishers and have a good collection of those returned.
When I arrived home this evening, there was an envelope (with familiar handwriting) on the table from Ethan Ellenberg Literary Agency of New York. I had sent them a package with some information about my books and requesting an opportunity to discuss representation by them. I also included a SASE and it served its purpose. I could tell by the "thinness" of the envelope that it was probably not good news. Inside was a standard form post card stating, "Please accept my apology for this form response, but the volume of mail received in my office makes a personal reply impossible. I have reviewed your material and it is not anythng I wish to work with at this time. Thank you for the submission and I wish you the best of luck with other agents."
And so that is the way it goes. Sometimes there is good news and sometimes there isn't...but it is nice when the SASE is returned becasue some news is better than no news at all...and hey, the card does say they reviewed my material. That's something to hope for!
I also want to let you all know that you can go to www.amazon.com/abna to find out information on the contest that my book, "The Scrapbook" is entered in. Here is the latest news:
Once, I included a SASE in a card to my youngest brother (estranged from the family) and he simply used it to send the card right back to me...no note...just the card...funny. I guess it was his way of letting me know he is still alive, but nothing more. I have also included them in query letters to publishers and have a good collection of those returned.
When I arrived home this evening, there was an envelope (with familiar handwriting) on the table from Ethan Ellenberg Literary Agency of New York. I had sent them a package with some information about my books and requesting an opportunity to discuss representation by them. I also included a SASE and it served its purpose. I could tell by the "thinness" of the envelope that it was probably not good news. Inside was a standard form post card stating, "Please accept my apology for this form response, but the volume of mail received in my office makes a personal reply impossible. I have reviewed your material and it is not anythng I wish to work with at this time. Thank you for the submission and I wish you the best of luck with other agents."
And so that is the way it goes. Sometimes there is good news and sometimes there isn't...but it is nice when the SASE is returned becasue some news is better than no news at all...and hey, the card does say they reviewed my material. That's something to hope for!
I also want to let you all know that you can go to www.amazon.com/abna to find out information on the contest that my book, "The Scrapbook" is entered in. Here is the latest news:
- Over 5,000 authors have registered for the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award
- Registered authors represent nearly 2,000 different cities worldwide and 22 countries (including South Africa, Denmark, Malaysia, Argentina, and more)
- There is at least one author from every one of the 50 states (and the District of Columbia, too) registered for the contest
- Of the novels submitted for consideration, 42% fall into the general fiction category; 25% are mystery, thriller, and suspense; 18% are science fiction and fantasy; 8% are historical fiction, and 7% are romance (The Scrapbook is this category)
If you are an Amazon.com customer you will be able to view excerpts from the semi-finalist manuscripts starting January 15. Hopefully you will give favorable reviews and cast your vote for "The Scrapbook". What an opportunity! I just keep pinching myself to make sure I'm not dreaming! Thanks for all your encouragement and support...it means so much. I feel so blessed to be a part of it. It would be a dream come true.
Thursday I am leaving for another dream come true. I will be going to New York City to visit my Aunt Dorothy. I have always wanted to see New York during the Christmas season. It is a short trip, but will be fun. Dorothy and her friend, Jack, have gotten us tickets to see the Christmas Celebration and Radio City Music Hall on Friday morning. That should encourage some holiday spirit! Lord willing, the weather will be good and all flights on time. I will be gathering material for my next novel, "New York Winter Love"...more to come on that in later posts!
Well, I need to go spend some time with my sweet husband...Hallmark has some great holiday shows on right now! I will write again when I get back from the "Big Apple"!
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
I'M IN!!!!
Wow! What a wind of change has blown my way!
I received an email from ABNA again stating the manuscript and information had been received and I would be notified by the 12th if I am eligible for the contest. I received my email late yesterday and opened it today. It states:
Congratulations! We are emailing to notify you that your entry is eligible for the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award.
We take the contest review process very seriously, and are working diligently to consider each submission carefully. Submissions are now being reviewed by a team of Amazon editors and Amazon top reviewers. You should expect to be notified no later than January 15, 2008 if your entry will advance to the semi-final round.
Of course I realize they can disqualify me at any time if they find anything that violates eligibility (I don't think there should be...but who knows!) but I am going to enjoy the excitement while I can. For now...I am IN! I am one of the 5,000 being considered out of the thousands of entries from 24 countries around the world...awesome! This is truly an answer to my prayers and God gets all the glory.
I received an email from ABNA again stating the manuscript and information had been received and I would be notified by the 12th if I am eligible for the contest. I received my email late yesterday and opened it today. It states:
Congratulations! We are emailing to notify you that your entry is eligible for the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award.
We take the contest review process very seriously, and are working diligently to consider each submission carefully. Submissions are now being reviewed by a team of Amazon editors and Amazon top reviewers. You should expect to be notified no later than January 15, 2008 if your entry will advance to the semi-final round.
Of course I realize they can disqualify me at any time if they find anything that violates eligibility (I don't think there should be...but who knows!) but I am going to enjoy the excitement while I can. For now...I am IN! I am one of the 5,000 being considered out of the thousands of entries from 24 countries around the world...awesome! This is truly an answer to my prayers and God gets all the glory.
Friday, November 2, 2007
Opportunity????
What a day I had the other day! As some of you know I work part-time as a manager at an all women's fitness facility. I love this job as it coordinates well with my other part-time job as a greeting card merchandiser and also allows me some time to write and do my art. Apparently I might be having more free time as the owner approached me with the idea of making the facility a mostly self-maintained 24 hour center. Which means my hours could be cut back to as few as three hours a week...YIKES! That won't pay the medical bills! (I am feeling better finally, however) I spent the day trying to figure out the pros and cons of this conversion for me personally. Finally I just decided that it didnt' matter. There are still alot of logistics to figure out before the change happens...if it happens. She is thinking of trying to accomplish this by the first of the year...so I guess there could be only a couple months of regular paychecks...bummer!
Anyway, when I got home that evening, I decided I needed to go on-line and see if I can figure out how to find an agent to help me promote my books and writing. As I was searching, I came across a site that told about a current contest with Amazon.com and Penguin Publishing...Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award...a search for the next great novel. The deadline is November 5! So I thought, what the heck, and entered. However, only 5000 submissions were going to be accepted and I received an email stating registration was full but they would place me on a stand-by list. So, I went to bed laughing and telling my husband that I am probably now one of another 5000 who are on stand-by. The next morning, I got up and (after my Bible reading time) I went to check my email and there it was...a message from Amazon congratualing me that a submission spot opened up and I had 7 days to submit my manuscript for consideration. I was stunned...but then I thought...WOW, what an opportunity! And immediately called my husband, who was cautiously enthused. I received a new hope of excitement for "The Scrapbook" , oh, I know the odds of my little romance book being chosed as the "next great novel" are slim, but I'm excited about the opportunity anyway. I finished the final edit and sent the manuscript in this morning. They thanked me for the submission and wished me luck, stating they would notify me in approximately 48 hours with confirmation of receipt and by November 12 if my submission is valid and accepted as an entry into the contest. Whooohooo! It took three attempts to complete the submission form accurately with the exact information required...the right number of words, character count, etc. I said a prayer as I clicked the "submit" button.
On another note, I am feeling much better. (Thanks for the prayers!) I have been told I have a slightly enlarged thyroid (the lump in my neck) and that it is nothing to be worried about...just to have it checked annually. Everything...I mean everything else checked out fine. I did do a trip to the emergency room with lower right abdominal pain which ended up being a packed bowel (Yes, I was full of crap...medical confirmation for those of you who always suspected!) The last virus played havoc on my whole system...but I think I'm finally over it and have much of my energy back....PRAISE THE LORD!
Well, that's all for now.
Anyway, when I got home that evening, I decided I needed to go on-line and see if I can figure out how to find an agent to help me promote my books and writing. As I was searching, I came across a site that told about a current contest with Amazon.com and Penguin Publishing...Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award...a search for the next great novel. The deadline is November 5! So I thought, what the heck, and entered. However, only 5000 submissions were going to be accepted and I received an email stating registration was full but they would place me on a stand-by list. So, I went to bed laughing and telling my husband that I am probably now one of another 5000 who are on stand-by. The next morning, I got up and (after my Bible reading time) I went to check my email and there it was...a message from Amazon congratualing me that a submission spot opened up and I had 7 days to submit my manuscript for consideration. I was stunned...but then I thought...WOW, what an opportunity! And immediately called my husband, who was cautiously enthused. I received a new hope of excitement for "The Scrapbook" , oh, I know the odds of my little romance book being chosed as the "next great novel" are slim, but I'm excited about the opportunity anyway. I finished the final edit and sent the manuscript in this morning. They thanked me for the submission and wished me luck, stating they would notify me in approximately 48 hours with confirmation of receipt and by November 12 if my submission is valid and accepted as an entry into the contest. Whooohooo! It took three attempts to complete the submission form accurately with the exact information required...the right number of words, character count, etc. I said a prayer as I clicked the "submit" button.
On another note, I am feeling much better. (Thanks for the prayers!) I have been told I have a slightly enlarged thyroid (the lump in my neck) and that it is nothing to be worried about...just to have it checked annually. Everything...I mean everything else checked out fine. I did do a trip to the emergency room with lower right abdominal pain which ended up being a packed bowel (Yes, I was full of crap...medical confirmation for those of you who always suspected!) The last virus played havoc on my whole system...but I think I'm finally over it and have much of my energy back....PRAISE THE LORD!
Well, that's all for now.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired
Hi again! I haven't posted lately. I haven't been feeling well for about eight weeks. It is extremely frustrating as I have so much I want to try to accomplish, but don't have the energy to do it. It seems I am getting this way more frequently.
In 2003 I had West Nile and was sick for about 4 months. It really wiped me out, and now whenever I pick up a virus, I feel very much the same way as I did when I was sick back then. Adding to the frustration is the fact that doctors can't seem to diagnose why I feel so badly. Currently, I am trying to find out why I have such swollen glands in my neck and what the mysterious lumps are...lymph nodes???? fatty tumors???? All tests so far have returned normal, including a CT scan. I am going to an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, throat physician) on the 19th for one more shot at a determination and treatment to feel better, but I may have to simply accept the fact that it really is a virus that has once again attacked my suppressed immune system and will just have to "run it's course" however long it may take. I don't like this.
I haven't worked on "The Scrapbook" since getting it back from a friend who helped edit it. I was informed by Publish America that they could not offer me a contract on it though based on the sales performance of my previous published book, "Third & Grace". When I asked what volume of sales warrants a consideration for a contract they replied, "We can not give out sales information at this time. We urge you to focus on the promotion of your published work and invite you to resubmit your manuscript in the future for another evaluation." So...I replied, "Hmmmmm...let me make sure I understand you correctly. You are unable to offer a contract on my current book based on the sales performance of my previously published work, but you are also unable to give out any sales information to justify this decision...does this make any sense to you? I just simply want to know how many of my previously published books need to be sold before you will consider offering a contract on another book? Is your decision to publish based on quality of material or sales generated for you by the marketing abilities of the author? I find it extremely difficult to market and write at the same time...have you heard this from other writers? I also work two part-time jobs to bring in some consistent income, as writing is more of an emotional fulfullment than a monetary one. Thank you for your response and please understand that I am not trying to be difficult...I just want to know what is truly expected from you as my publisher...because that is what I considered you to be and didn't plan on going anywhere else. Thank you for any clarification you can offer. Sincerely...." I never heard anything back from them. I guess I'm not surprised...but I'm not really disappointed either. I think this is an opportunity to maybe hook up with a publisher that will better meet my needs. All I need is the energy to pursue one...and right now I don't have any to spare.
Yes, I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired. I'm crabby and my neck aches. Think I'll just go to bed...maybe tomorrow will be better.
In 2003 I had West Nile and was sick for about 4 months. It really wiped me out, and now whenever I pick up a virus, I feel very much the same way as I did when I was sick back then. Adding to the frustration is the fact that doctors can't seem to diagnose why I feel so badly. Currently, I am trying to find out why I have such swollen glands in my neck and what the mysterious lumps are...lymph nodes???? fatty tumors???? All tests so far have returned normal, including a CT scan. I am going to an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, throat physician) on the 19th for one more shot at a determination and treatment to feel better, but I may have to simply accept the fact that it really is a virus that has once again attacked my suppressed immune system and will just have to "run it's course" however long it may take. I don't like this.
I haven't worked on "The Scrapbook" since getting it back from a friend who helped edit it. I was informed by Publish America that they could not offer me a contract on it though based on the sales performance of my previous published book, "Third & Grace". When I asked what volume of sales warrants a consideration for a contract they replied, "We can not give out sales information at this time. We urge you to focus on the promotion of your published work and invite you to resubmit your manuscript in the future for another evaluation." So...I replied, "Hmmmmm...let me make sure I understand you correctly. You are unable to offer a contract on my current book based on the sales performance of my previously published work, but you are also unable to give out any sales information to justify this decision...does this make any sense to you? I just simply want to know how many of my previously published books need to be sold before you will consider offering a contract on another book? Is your decision to publish based on quality of material or sales generated for you by the marketing abilities of the author? I find it extremely difficult to market and write at the same time...have you heard this from other writers? I also work two part-time jobs to bring in some consistent income, as writing is more of an emotional fulfullment than a monetary one. Thank you for your response and please understand that I am not trying to be difficult...I just want to know what is truly expected from you as my publisher...because that is what I considered you to be and didn't plan on going anywhere else. Thank you for any clarification you can offer. Sincerely...." I never heard anything back from them. I guess I'm not surprised...but I'm not really disappointed either. I think this is an opportunity to maybe hook up with a publisher that will better meet my needs. All I need is the energy to pursue one...and right now I don't have any to spare.
Yes, I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired. I'm crabby and my neck aches. Think I'll just go to bed...maybe tomorrow will be better.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Finally Finished (Well Almost)
Hello again. Exciting news! I finally finished my second novel...the first draft that is. It is just so good to have all 20 chapters complete now and in a binder which I will go through page by page and read. I don't know if other writers do it this way, but it works for me. I like to see how the story flows and then I can scribble my changes right on the page as I go.
I am so new at this, but am amazed at how, sometimes, the story seemed to take on a life and direction of its own...apart from what I had originally intended or thought. But when it was finished...I just knew and the joy and explosion of emotions was incredible. I was so thrilled, relieved, and spent! When the last words were written, and the burst of joy experienced, I just sat back in the afterglow of it all.
There were many life happenings that distracted me from being able to write as much as I would have liked to...but those life happenings are what is important...my writing is second to the lives of those I love...always...AKWAYS. My father died. A baby granddaughter was diagnosed with cancer. My god-mother had brain surgery for cancer. And of course even the good things can be a distraction from writing. Another new granddaughter born...and now a new grandson just today! We now have an even dozen grandchildren...together in our blended family...amazing!
But, the hard work on the book is yet to come....EDITING!!!! Before I have anyone else see the manuscript I go through it myself several times and will do so while on vacation the next week or so. I guess it could be easier if I had a lap-top computer...but I don't so...oh well. If one wants to write you do it any way you can.
While on this little trip, I plan to finish gathering material to complete another book I started last year. It is more of an informational book and is a project that I am doing for fun. Would like to incorporate some photos in it...maybe.
I am so happy to hear that my wonderful Aunt from New York City is coming for a visit. She has had an amazing life and has been writing notes for me so I can create a book about her. I am going to try and spend several days with her, at a family gathering, to go over the notes and (hopefully) come up with an idea and story. I would like to get started on it as soon as possible.
I had hoped to work on another children's book after this current novel, but not sure if I will. I try to plan my direction, but many times God creates situations in my life or inspirations that take me a whole other direction. I am always open to His leading. And then there is that little factor of having to generate a certain amount of consistent income to pay bills...the "jobs"...and I have several part-time ones. This allows me the flexibility to still do some writing, but oh how I look forward to the day when I can just write and paint and draw...someday.
I am so new at this, but am amazed at how, sometimes, the story seemed to take on a life and direction of its own...apart from what I had originally intended or thought. But when it was finished...I just knew and the joy and explosion of emotions was incredible. I was so thrilled, relieved, and spent! When the last words were written, and the burst of joy experienced, I just sat back in the afterglow of it all.
There were many life happenings that distracted me from being able to write as much as I would have liked to...but those life happenings are what is important...my writing is second to the lives of those I love...always...AKWAYS. My father died. A baby granddaughter was diagnosed with cancer. My god-mother had brain surgery for cancer. And of course even the good things can be a distraction from writing. Another new granddaughter born...and now a new grandson just today! We now have an even dozen grandchildren...together in our blended family...amazing!
But, the hard work on the book is yet to come....EDITING!!!! Before I have anyone else see the manuscript I go through it myself several times and will do so while on vacation the next week or so. I guess it could be easier if I had a lap-top computer...but I don't so...oh well. If one wants to write you do it any way you can.
While on this little trip, I plan to finish gathering material to complete another book I started last year. It is more of an informational book and is a project that I am doing for fun. Would like to incorporate some photos in it...maybe.
I am so happy to hear that my wonderful Aunt from New York City is coming for a visit. She has had an amazing life and has been writing notes for me so I can create a book about her. I am going to try and spend several days with her, at a family gathering, to go over the notes and (hopefully) come up with an idea and story. I would like to get started on it as soon as possible.
I had hoped to work on another children's book after this current novel, but not sure if I will. I try to plan my direction, but many times God creates situations in my life or inspirations that take me a whole other direction. I am always open to His leading. And then there is that little factor of having to generate a certain amount of consistent income to pay bills...the "jobs"...and I have several part-time ones. This allows me the flexibility to still do some writing, but oh how I look forward to the day when I can just write and paint and draw...someday.
Monday, July 23, 2007
A new week...let's try something new!
Okay, here I go. I'm really not very good at this, but thought it might be a good way for friends and family to keep up with what I am doing with my writing these days. Just what I need another thing to try and keep current! Oh well...if one doesn't try something new occasionally life can become dull.
Have been busy working on my second novel. Trying to write some everyday. Have made a goal to try and have it ready for first edit by the end of this month. The story is presenting well so far, but haven't quite determined how it will all come together in the end.
"Third & Grace" is still out there available on-line at Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.com but haven't had the time to market it to the brick and mortar yet. Would like to get it into one of the local businesses and hope to accomplish that soon. Have received good reviews from those who have read it though and that makes me happy. My first royalty check from the publisher bought a nice dinner out for my husband and I...better than nothing! Next royalty comes in August.
"The Mystery History Trunk" is still making appearances around the area. I have had the opportunity to do some personal readings using my interactive trunk and props. It is so much fun and people of all ages seem to enjoy it. My most recent reading was at the local college for a group of high achiever junior high kids at an Honors Institute Camp. Boy, could they post the questions! Made me feel like I needed to go back to school to learn the English Lit lingo all over again!
Well, that's about all for now. We'll see how this goes. I'm not so sure I can figure out how to utilize this medium, but will do my best.
Have been busy working on my second novel. Trying to write some everyday. Have made a goal to try and have it ready for first edit by the end of this month. The story is presenting well so far, but haven't quite determined how it will all come together in the end.
"Third & Grace" is still out there available on-line at Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.com but haven't had the time to market it to the brick and mortar yet. Would like to get it into one of the local businesses and hope to accomplish that soon. Have received good reviews from those who have read it though and that makes me happy. My first royalty check from the publisher bought a nice dinner out for my husband and I...better than nothing! Next royalty comes in August.
"The Mystery History Trunk" is still making appearances around the area. I have had the opportunity to do some personal readings using my interactive trunk and props. It is so much fun and people of all ages seem to enjoy it. My most recent reading was at the local college for a group of high achiever junior high kids at an Honors Institute Camp. Boy, could they post the questions! Made me feel like I needed to go back to school to learn the English Lit lingo all over again!
Well, that's about all for now. We'll see how this goes. I'm not so sure I can figure out how to utilize this medium, but will do my best.
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