Saturday, November 27, 2010

Guilty much too often of this...


...not of blowing up cars. That would be illegal. And probably dangerous.

But I am guilty of what this writer refers to as "bore-geous" writing. Writers, and whoever else works with words, read this. Now.

Ayelet Waldman discusses the importance of avoiding pointless beautiful writing. She emphasizes how important it is to move the plot forward with each scene, each sentence, each word, and when it doesn't, cut it. It's hard to let go of my "babies"--those favorite scenes, characters, stories, whatever that don't really do much of anything.

It's so true! Let's get some action happenin!

Monday, November 15, 2010

Other sources of inspiration

My pets always inspire me--this is Penny

...and Lucy on Lake Michigan

Places inspire me--this is sunset at Lake Michigan

And Colorado, my home state is always inspiring

Colorado, near Buena Vista

Surprising places inspire me--this is the beautiful ceiling of Macy's in Chicago

My family inspires me



The gorgeous Colorado scenery inspires me


In Colorado - Rocky Mountain National Park

Thursday, November 11, 2010

My place of inspiration

 This is my sunroom where I love to work and write. Where do you like to write?

Friday, November 05, 2010

A Shout-Out to My Sisters!

So, as a virtual **hug** to all the women in my life who inspire or support me, I want to give a shout out this Friday. Yes, this reads a bit like a book dedication, but hey, let's face it, I'm never going to write a book long enough to actually include a dedication longer than one sentence. :) So, indulge me...

To my mom who can remember every detail, including all state capitols as well as my dog's birthday, and who has given support to me every day of my life; who taught me to sing every day and bloom where I'm planted.

To my sister-in-law, Jennifer, whose grace and love and understanding is always just a phone call away.

To my mother-in-law Jody who is always so supportive of my writing.

To my niece Allie, who is growing to be a lovely young woman.

To Jean who is like a big sister to me and we can always pick up where we left off, just like I saw you yesterday.

To Carol whose creativity and understanding never ceases to amaze me (and I don't think you even realize how brilliant you are).

To Pam and Sara and Rachele and Lori who always keep in touch thought we live far apart (and I'm so bad at staying in contact).

To my adopted "moms" Shirley, DiDi and Barb who help to take care of me.
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To Peggy Kuethe whose work helps so many and who has been such a wonderful mentor to me.

To all of you and so many more...hugs!!

P.S. Sometimes, I have recently realized, I don't take enough time to thank those who mentored me or helped me through the years. I encourage you all to "pay it forward" and give your own shout-outs!