Write What Your Heart Desires

Please follow me to my new website

2010-05-25T10:25:00.002+01:00

A number of my followers have already moved over to my new website http://terriehope.webs.com/ . For those of you that haven't, please go over and join. It will only take a few minutes. And you won't get mountains of e-mails from me.

P.S. For anyone who goes to my site: So that I know you've joined please remember to fill in details on your profile

Please move with me

2010-03-21T20:17:00.002Z

If anyone has visited this blog over the last few weeks, you will have noticed that I haven't posted here. That is because I am now posting on my new blog site.

So please go and visit me there. You will have to become a member in order to post a comment, but I would love to have you join me there.

So, I will end by saying, Looking forward to seeing you in my new home.

A Catch Up

2010-03-01T09:36:00.002Z

I missed posting something last week. I've been busy.

First, I posted a while ago that I had sent a story for publication consideration. Well, I waited for weeks with not a word. Then last week I received a reply. I'm sorry to say it was rejected. But, you know, I'm not in the least bit bothered. Yes, it was disappointing to get a rejection, but life must go on. So my story is now ready to be sent out again. It will be winging its way out again in the next few days. One day it will get to the right place.

Next, I've been trying hard to get another story ready for sending out. It's no fun trying to juggle many diiferent tasks at the same time.

Along with that I've had to fit in housework. I'm sure the dust follows me around. I clean and the next time I look everything is covered again.

Lastly, I've been setting up a new website. It is one of those everything in one place sites. Once it is up and running, it will hopefully make life just a little easier. I hope you will all move there with me. So, if you want to have a look around, please follow this link http://terriehope.webs.com/

It is still a work in progress, and I hope that you will give me suggestions on improvements that I could make to the site.

Interview or other, Instalment #2

2010-02-23T08:12:00.002Z

A few posts back, I spoke about, blog interviews. There are so many blogs and so many bloggers doing interviews. Because of this, I decided to look for another way of interviewing people. I think I have found it.

So, all I will say at the moment is watch this space. I will soon have my first "interview" up. And, when I post the first one I hope to get some feedback from you so I'll know if it works.

Also regarding interviews, is there a question you want to ask me? If there is something you want to know, please ask. All questions will be answered (provided they are not of a too personal nature).

I look forward to posting more interviews and other writing related information.

Proof reading - Do you do it?

2010-02-15T12:05:00.002Z

I have found, since I started writing seriously, that pretty much everything I read has to be proof read. It is fun to point out the faults of a fellow writer. Reactions are also interesting.

Many years ago, my first task when I arrived at Church was to pick up the weekly bulletin, to read through it, and then to point out the mistakes to the writer. As you can imagine, at first this was seen as helpful, but as time went on, it was less help and more frustration. Why was he frustrated? I was only trying to help.

Well, that was the start of proof reading everything that came into my hands in the way of reading matter.

One time that I wish I didn't do this is at the moment. I have been "studying" for a test. The information is around history, dates, statistics, etc., ,my weakest points. I have been very half-heartedly reading, and yet, I find I'm proof reading with great enthusiasm. Determined to find fault.

Though a good thing when it comes to writing stories, books etc., I wonder if it is a good thing when reading other things. Unfortunately, the information I've been reading is from the government. They would, no doubt, not appreciate me pointing out their mistakes in a publication such as this.

Maybe I should just stick to proof reading and critiquing stories etc., it's safer. What do you think? Your opinions on the why's, when's and wherefore's of this subject would be interesting and greatly appreciated.

Interview or other

2010-02-09T18:28:00.002Z

As I read through some blogs, my own included there is an increasing number of people doing blog interviews. I have been thinking recently about doing something different.

Don't get me wrong. I am not saying the interviews aren't good, I just think there are too many people doing the same thing.

So - within the next few weeks I will be doing something else.
What are the types of people information posts that you, my readers, would like to see?
What would bring you back day after day, week after week?

I want to bring you news, views, highs, lows, and other information from people who have the same love as you and me, to write for children, teens and young adults.

Until next time, I'm signing off. Please look out for something new, and happy writing.

When Life gets in the way

2010-01-23T12:28:00.002Z

As 2010 dawned, I made a promise to myself that I would add a post to my blog every day, well most days anyway, and I would write everyday, no question about it.

Well, as the days have changed to weeks, I still haven't added a daily post to my blog, and my writing has all but gone by the wayside.

The annoying thing is as I said in my title, life has got in the way. There is housework, shopping, a disabled son, telephone calls, to name but a few things. My best intentions never bring about the achievements I strive for.

But, although "Life" is a natural part of the day to day workings of the world, I know that one day, hopefully sooner rather than later, I will be where I want to be. I will not give up. We can all reach our goals, climb that mountain no matter how high, and just be who and what we want to be.

Do you have the problem of how do I reach my goal, how do I climb that mountain? I do it by carrying on carrying on.

Someone once gave me a picture - a stork trying to swallow a frog. The frog is hanging on for dear life head in the birds beak, and feet around its neck. He is doing everything he can to avoid being swallowed. On mention of the picture, the person in question told me that he felt it suited me as I never seemed to give up. No matter how hard things get, although I might moan about it, want to give up on it, or just forget about it altogether, I always find some way of bouncing back.

So, my question to you is:
When "Life gets in the way" how do you deal with it?

To Submit, or not to Submit? That is the question

2010-01-18T18:12:00.003Z

As writers we all have that time that we want to send that story or book manuscript out to a publisher. But once we get to that point, we wonder if we can let that baby go.

Have you had this problem? I have.

I wrote my first assignment and sent it in thinking I would get a letter back from my instructor telling me all the things she thought were wrong with it. Well, it had faults, but how many don't? As I took the envelope and opened it, my heart stopped. Is this how I am going to feel every time I send something in? I am being stupid. Afterall, its only a story, right? Right.

But this was just an assignment, a practise run.

Anyway, Having opened the envelope, and reading the comments from my instructor, I was pleasantly surprised. It wasn't nearly as bad as I thought.

So, back to the reason for this post. That first assignment was written about six years ago. WOW!! And only now I have managed to revise it, edit it, and send it out. Gulp! Well, its a good story (of course I think it is, I wrote it didn't I?) The writing, the revising, the editing, the re-revising, re-editing, .........

Was I ever going to have it ready? Well, long story short, the process took a few weeks, thankfully with the help of some very helpful, more knowledgeable writer friends. I did and redid, and thought this would never end.

Well, I'm pleased to say, it is finally finished, and it is finally on its way. I went through the whole process, printed the manuscript and cover letter, put them in the envelope with the return envelope and relevant return postage. Then came the "part with it" time.

Do I, don't I. Of course I do, but I know that when I get to the mail box the envelope will mysteriously stick itself to my hand, and will stay out of the box. I'll have to go back home and try again later.

So activate plan B. My husband came home for lunch the other day, and was informed that my story was in the envelope and ready to go. He was happy to hear this, and told me that I could have the car. My response, oh, you can stop by the mail box and put it in on your way back to work.

I'm pleased to say, he agreed, and my story was/is winging its way to the publisher. So, now starts the waiting game.

So I suppose the best way to end this is to say please keep checking back to see if my submission was a success, or if it came back with that all too frequent, dreaded rejection form letter.

Interview with Simon Rose

2010-01-15T13:09:00.008Z

Welcome to my latest author interview.

My guest today is Canadian children's author Simon Rose. His novels include The Doomsday Mask, The Heretic's Tomb, The Emerald Curse, The Clone Conspiracy, The Sorcerer's Letterbox, and The Alchemist's Portrait.

He's also a contributing author to The Complete Guide to Writing Science Fiction: Volume One and founded the almost legendary networking group Children's Authors and Illustrators on Facebook. Here's what Simon has to say about his work.

Welcome, Simon. Could you please tell us a little about your books.

My books are in the science fiction and fantasy genre for middle grades, around ages eight to twelve. You can see full details of each of them, including excerpts and synopses (and you can even listen to recording of my readings) at the Books page at simon-rose.com.  

The Alchemist's Portrait is a time-travel story, in which Matthew journeys through the centuries using magical paintings which act as doorways into the past, in order to save the world from the clutches of an evil alchemist.

The Sorcerer's Letterbox, another time-travel tale, is based on the famous mystery of the Princes in the Tower about Edward V and his brother Richard, Duke of York, who were supposedly murdered on the orders of Richard III in 1483.

The Clone Conspiracy is a science fiction thriller involving clandestine laboratories and secret experiments, while The Emerald Curse, based on my own reading of comic books while growing up, concerns Sam's adventures in a bizarre, and at times deadly, superhero universe.

The Heretic's Tomb is set in the medieval period once again, this time during the Black Death in 1349. 

My latest novel, The Doomsday Mask, was published in the spring of 2009. It's once again for ages 8–12 and in the science fiction and fantasy genre. It's a fast-paced adventure about ancient civilizations, mysterious artifacts, and shadowy secret societies.

A seventh novel for middle grades, The Time Camera, will be published in spring 2011, along with Flashback, a novel for young adults, and synopses are available here. I have also written several books for younger readers with Weigl Educational Publishers due for publication this year and have a regular column ‘Simon Says’ with the National Writing for Children Center.

What drew you to writing books for children?

One of the best things about writing for kids is that I can write about the kinds of things that fascinated me when I was young. Stories can be very imaginative if they are for children, which makes writing them so much fun. And, of course, in science fiction or fantasy, more or less anything you can imagine is possible, as you craft stories involving ancient mysteries, the unexplained, the paranormal, science fiction, time travel, parallel universes, alternate realities, weird and wonderful characters, and a multitude of "what if" scenarios. Once I had children of my own, I came into contact with children's books again for the first time in many years. Picture books initially, of course, but then early chapter books and novels. When I decided to try my hand at writing novels and stories, I found myself drawn to the types of things I used to read as a child. I read lots of science fiction, as well fantasy writers and ghost stories while growing up. I also read a tremendous number of comic books, in which the stories took me across the universe, into strange dimensions, into the land of the Norse gods or had me swinging from the New York rooftops. At high school, I studied a lot of history and have retained my interest in the subject up to the present day. I also read voraciously on ancient civilizations, mysteries, the supernatural, and the unexplained.

What are you working on now?

I have another completed novel on a paranormal theme which I am seeking a home for, if there are any interested editors and publishers reading this. I'm working on a number of editing projects for other writers, have numerous projects of my own for future novels, and I am collaborating on several picture books with a local illustrator. In addition to novel writing, I offer copywriting services for business, such as editorial content for websites. I have a few of those types of projects, as well as upcoming articles for magazines and online publications on a wide variety of topics, such as the articles written for Dark Roasted Blend on a bewildering variety of incredible and fantastic topics You can search or my articles on the Dark Roasted Blend home page. I'm also involved in a large local event set for the fall called the Calgary Children's Book Fair and Conference.

Any advice for aspiring children’s writers?   

Writing is in some ways the easy part. It can be a very long process not only to write a book, but also to get it published. A book is a marathon measured in years rather than weeks or months. Don’t be afraid to revise and revise over and over again. Most authors go through many revisions before their work reaches its final format. Remember, too, that your book will never be to everyone’s taste, so don’t be discouraged. A firm belief in your own success is often what’s necessary. After all, if you don’t believe in your book, how can you expect other people to?  

Read as much as you can and write as often as you can. Keep an ideas file, even if it’s only a name, title, sentence, or an entire outline for a novel. You never know when you might get another piece of the puzzle, perhaps years later. You also mustn’t forget the marketing. You may produce the greatest book ever written. However, no one else is going to see it if your book doesn’t become known to potential readers. Be visible as an author. Do as many readings, signings, and personal appearances as you can. Get your name out there and hopefully the rest will follow. Especially for newly published authors, books don’t sell themselves and need a lot of help. You can read some of my tips and advice for writers at Ezine Articles. I also belong to a number of writing organizations and am the Assistant Regional Advisor for the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators in Western Canada.

Where can readers find out more about you and your books?
 
Autographed copies of my books are always available from me directly, but they are also available at all the usual places such as Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and many other places online — and details can be found for each book here. You can also easily order any of the novels from your local bookstore if they don't have copies on the shelf.

You can stay up-to-date with me and my work by visiting my author site and blog, connecting as a friend on Facebook, joining Children's Authors and Illustrators on Facebook or my own groups for each of the novels or following me Twitter.

Do you offer any other services?

Yes, I offer a wide range of presentations, workshops, and author-in-residence programs for schools and libraries. I cover such topics as where ideas come from, story structure, editing and revision, character development, time-travel stories, history, and research. You can learn more about them here and I offer study guides for all the books. I also conduct virtual author visits via video using the Skype network, and you can get some idea of how it works from my videos on YouTube.

I also offer workshops for adults, both in person and online, as well as online workshops for children, which are proving very popular.

I was also involved in a large local event in November 2009 called the Calgary Children's Book Fair and Conference.

I did a lot of work in summer camps this year, some of which you can learn about here. In addition, here in Calgary I work as a writing instructor with home school children, the local school board's continuing education program, the University. I am also an instructor with the National Writing for Children Centre and will be presented at schools libraries in the UK as part of the Off the Shelf Festival of Writing and Reading in October 2009.

Thank you Simon for agreeing to do this interview. You certainly lead a varied and busy life.

To my readers: I can recommend Simons books, and have read 4 of the books he has available at the moment (see above). I am now starting the fifth.

Until the next interview – Happy writing, and much success in all you do.

New Blog Interview

2010-01-14T10:12:00.000Z

M E D I A R E L E A S E

CONTACT: Terrie Hope, Children’s Author
Email: terriehope@btinternet.com
Blog: http://tbhope.blogspot.com

For Immediate Release

Guest Author, Simon Rose at Terrie Hope’s Write What Your Heart Desires

Terrie Hope explores the written word through your heart desires at http://tbhope.blogspot.com. Come along with Terrie on her weekly chats such as “This Business Called Writing” and interviews of professionals in the trenches of writing for children.

Stop by Friday, January 15th and visit with Terrie’s guest author, Simon Rose. Simon will be checking-in throughout the day to chat and field any questions you may have.

Thank you in advance for your interest.

New Years Resolutions

2010-01-05T17:51:00.003Z

We all make new years resolutions at the end of the year, and try to convince ourselves that we are going to keep at making them work. But how many resolutions are still being followed a few days after the beginning of January? If you're anything like me, they are all broken by the 3rd of January.

With this in mind, I decided this year that I would not make any resolutions. I am making writing goals instead.

I will start small - one submission a month. Possible, yes. Doable, definitely. Then there's my blog, and my critique group.

So, there's plenty to keep me busy.

What are you going to do make resolutions, or make goals? Whatever you choose, I wish you luck and success.

I am determined to make 2010 my best writing year yet. Are you?

A New Day, A New Year

2010-01-01T08:00:00.003Z

As I write this the clock has just struck 8am on January 1st 2010. I sit here and think of the things I am hoping to achieve in this new year.

There are many things, that come to mind, but my greatest priority is to get my writing life in order. I have procrastinated through 2009. That voice has kept saying "Oh, tomorrow is another day", "Publishers don't want your stories, they're not good enough", " Just do this first, and then write".

There has always been something to stop me writing. And, yet, while that little voice nags me to not submit. There is that other voice that tells me to do more.

So which one do I listen to?

I could listen to the procrastination voice. I know where that will lead me - straight down the road to nowhere. But I will listen to the other voice. It is time to get my writing hat on, to put aside all the things that keep me from writing, and to get those babies on paper and out to those publishers who I know are waiting for them.

So, as I write this, I know that my first task is to set my goals for this brand new year. What are they? I think #1 will be to submit at least one story every month this year. Doable, yes, achieveable, definitely.

2010, here I come. No New Years resolutions. They are too easily made and too easily broken. This new year will bring dreams to reality, words to paper, and achievements to be proud of.
I thank everyone who has read my blog for taking the time to visit.

My wish for you all for 2010 is success in all that you do. May this be a happy and prosperous writing year for us all.

The countdown has begun

2009-12-29T16:34:00.004Z

As I write this, the countdown to 2010 is well and truly underway. In a few days we will be looking back over 2009, and reminiscing over the things we have done.

When I look back, the only real achievement I have is finishing the advanced course, Beyond the Basics, with the Institute of Children's Literature. Well, I suppose that is, in itself a great achievement, but I would like to have taken things further, and submitted some of the manuscripts I've worked so hard on.

So, on friday it will be the start of a new year. The old will be gone, and I am hoping and praying that with the new year, will come the chance to submit - regularly. I will do it no matter what it takes. Even if I have to start small and increase slowly, I am determined to leave that starting block and race to the finish line.

In closing, I would like to wish all my followers, and anyone else who reads this, a very happy and prosperous New Year. For my writer followers and readers, I hope you have a very successful writing year.

Until next time.....

Let it snow!!!

2009-12-21T16:06:00.002Z

As I write, the snow is falling. It has fallen all afternoon, the only change is the speed at which it comes down. Where the cars were parked overnight, the snow has covered the bare earth. Everywhere I look the ground is white.

Oh what a beautiful scene it makes. But there is the down side to the snow as well. Travel is difficult or even impossible, outdoor work is totally impossible, unless you are a livestock farmer, and have to feed the animals.

Writing is like snowy days. As the snow falls, and disrupts travel, work, shopping and other things, writing has its share of problems too.

If you are anything like me, there is every distraction available. In my case its a house, a family, and everything that goes with them. Writing comes in fits and starts. Some days I can write pages, and others, well I'm lucky if I can get even one word on the page or computer screen.

Now, having said that, how much writing do I really expect to get done with all there is to do before Christmas? If I had my way - loads. But, I don't have my way - so none. Every word I write will be a bonus, and, hopefully come the New Year, I will be able to write regularly. Time will tell.

Anyway, I would like to take this opportunity to wish every one that reads this a very merry Christmas and a Happy and prosperous 2010.

What a wonderful day today is.

2009-12-18T17:20:00.002Z

My last two posts were about the new critique group I have started. I am happy to say that at the time of writing this, there is a total of 18 members in the main group. From that we have 7 groups, of which one is now full.

And all this in two days. Am I pleased, yes. I never expected this.

Writing is a lonely business, but its times like this that you can find friends. I am grateful to those people who have joined up so far. I think I can safely say that this is turning out really well.

Come back to see where we go from here.

Following on....

2009-12-17T08:28:00.002Z

from my last post. I mentioned my critique website at http://critiquecafe.ning.com

Well, since posting, I have moved the site to the above address. So some of the members only stuff doesn't necessarily exist any more. Anyway, to cut a long story short. I found a place where I feel we can do so much more, and went for it.

We all need that support in the lonely world of writing. And, if you're anything like me, you are alone with your writing in the big wide world of life.

So, if any one is reading this, and wants to join, please go on over and take a look around. We would love to welcome you onboard.

Writing and Critiques

2009-12-15T12:59:00.003Z

There is so much more to writing than just putting words on paper or the computer screen. Just writing will not necessarily get us published. There is a small matter called editing, or to some revising.

We all want our story to stand out from the rest. We all want that "wow" factor. We all want that letter or e-mail of acceptance for that baby that we have slaved so hard to put out there.

So, one way that we can iron out some of those flaws that like to creep into our work, is to join a critique group. Yes, we are sharing that hard work with other people. But while they are reading, they are finding all those little faults that we have more likely than not overlooked.

That fresh pair of eyes, or should I say, those fresh pairs of eyes, are a godsend. And, if we can put our feelings about our story to one side, and reflect on the comments that others have made about our story, we are bound to have a better story than before they read it.

Writing is a lonely business. How often can we go to our family and friends for constructive, helpful and positive comment. In my case, the comment is generally the same, "Oh,it's okay".

Yeah, right, its okay. But can I improve it? Did I spell something wrong? Is my punctuation correct? Questions, Questions!

I write what comes to mind, and feel that I don't really have a specific genre to put my writing into. I suppose you could say I lean more towards adventure, but then I feel I don't want to be stuck in one genre. I want to go with my heart, my feelings.

So, with this in mind, I find that open genre critique groups are few and far between. And, if this is the case, I stand little chance of getting into a critique group.

So there was a solution to this. Yes, you got it. Start a group of my own. This group is very much in the early stages, but I hope that what I picture for the group will take me and the members that join to new heights. I hope that we will all take the comments made and use them to make our work even better.

In 24 hours, I have a membership of 7, including myself. I am hoping that more people will join, and we can have a multi genre, helpful, constructive, friendly community of writers whose main ambitions are to help others to get their work published, and through other peoples help, get our own work published.

New members are welcome. Groups sizes are four to six. The first group is already established, and I hope to see the group critiquing early in the New Year.

So if you are looking for a critique group, keeping in mind that this is a group for Children's literature, please consider my group. You are not obliged to join, but would be most welcome if you decide it is for you.

I have a web site for the group which can be found at http://critiquecafe.ning.com

Take a look. You need to be a member to see the forums, but the places you can get into will give you an idea if its for you. I look forward to your membership if you join.

Until next time, happy writing.

2009-12-09T09:06:00.003Z

Nano is finished and Christmas is almost here.

As I look back over 2009, I wonder what exactly I have achieved. Really there is nothing great to speak about. As with most years lately, I feel as if I went to bed on January the 1st, and woke up at the end of the year.

But, thinking back, I did finish my writing course. I was torn. I suppose its just the fact that the close bond between instructor and student is suddenly, overnight, broken. You are suddenly on your own. No one to give the reassurance that you have become so accustomed to. Your writing lifeline has been taken away.

But, as they say, all good things come to an end. And after two courses, I suppose its time to take a break.

So, looking forward to 2010, somehow, I am going to write more, work harder at all aspects of my writing, and put my writing where I really want it to be - second only to my family.

My next interviews will be up soon, so please check back to read them.

So, as I close, I just want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and successful New Year.

Nano and my blog

2009-11-30T13:11:00.003Z

The month of November has raced by, I can't believe I'm writing this on the last day of the month. Only a month left of this year, WOW.

Well, you may be thinking that I've been pretty quiet on here lately. Yes, I have. November has been a busy month with Nano. But hey, it was well worth it. I did my 50,000 words. More to come on that in another post though.

So now that Nano is done, I can get back to concetrating on my writing - stories, my blog etc. etc.

My next interview will be posted shortly, so look out for that.

I look forward to posting my next news, so until then. Chow for now!

Writing Books

2009-11-20T09:30:00.003Z

Want to write a childrens book? Don't know where to start? Got questions?Looking for a book that will help with your writing? Look no further.

Yes! You Can Learn How to Write
Children's Books, Get Them Published,
and Build a Successful Writing Career
BY NANCY I. SANDERS
http://www.nancyisanders.com/

In this ground-breaking book, best-selling and award-winning author Nancy I. Sanders shares insider’s tips and explains the secrets to landing a contract before you write your manuscript -- even if you’re an inexperienced or unpublished children's writer. Whether you’re just starting out or have numerous published credits to your name, Nancy teaches you how to manage your time and focus your energies so that you are writing each day with purpose in order to get published, earn an income, and satisfy your personal fulfillment as a writer. Follow Nancy’s instructions, and you, too, can establish the foundation for building a successful career as a children’s writer. Yes! You can.

"Yes! You Can is like having your own personal writing coach at your side."
-Aimee Jackson, Senior Editor, Sleeping Bear Press

"Here, at last, is the book on children’s writing I’ve been looking for to offer my writing customers."
-Sally E. Stuart, Christian Writers’ Market Guide

E & E Publishing
ISBN: 0979160669
Writing/Reference
Paper, $19.95
368 pages
Available at Amazon.com

What am I Up to?

2009-11-05T10:44:00.002Z

If anyone is wondering if and when I am posting another interview, the answer to the If is yes. When - well that may be a few weeks.

I am one of those crazy people who decided to take on NaNo, and it is taking up all my spare time. I do have another interview planned, and in fact the questions and answers are almost ready for posting. But there is still work to be done, behind the scenes so to speak.

Please do keep an eye on my blog, and I will let you know when my next interview will be up.

Otherwise, NaNo has taken up much of my time since november 1st. I am hoping to make it two wins out of two, but that remains to be seen. I am enjoying seeing how all the other participants are doing, both on the ICL boards, and on the NaNo site.

To all my followers who are doing NaNo, have fun. I hope to be able to support you through this month of madness.

Thank you again

2009-10-31T08:10:00.002Z

Well, my second interview has been posted. I think I can safely say that it was a great success. Thank you to Jan for allowing me to ask her the questions I did. I really do appreciate it.

Thank you, too, to the people who took the time to read the interview. I really appreciate you all. I'm getting the hang of this now.

I hope to see my followers and others here for my next interview.

Thank you again.

Interview with Jan Fields

2009-10-30T09:26:00.006Z

It is my privilege to be able to post my interview with Jan Fields, Children's Author, ICL Instructor and Web Editor. I feel honored to know Jan, even if it is only through the medium of computers, message boards, and live chats. I hope you will enjoy reading my interview with Jan, and that you may learn just a little more about her.

Terrie: Please tell us something about yourself?

Jan: Something relevant or something weird? Let’s go with weird. I once rode on an elephant. I’ve also been licked in the face by a puma (it gives you a bad case of cat tongue burn). Oh, and I once almost drowned because a tall young woman was standing on my back in a pool (she was afraid of the water and I’m assuming she mistook me for a ladder.) How’s that for odd things?

Terrie: Where or how do you get your ideas for your books and stories?

Jan: At the idea store. Actually I’m not sure. A lot of times they originate from questions that come to me when I see something or read something that makes me think. For instance, I was dragging garbage cans out one day and noticed a spider had hung egg cases on one of them. I thought of how much trouble the spider had gone to in spinning this snug waterproof case, but then hung it on a garbage can – which seemed ironic. At any rate, thinking about egg cases and perception (my garbage can was her safe place) led to a story about a spider who won’t tell her neighbours what she’s spinning so they all guess based on their own perceptions of what is important. And that became “Spider’s Riddle” which eventually published in Spider magazine.

Terrie: You’ve adapted a few children’s favourites. Where did the inspiration come from to do these adaptions? From who’s POV were the adaptions written? And how many more do you plan to adapt?

Jan: Ah, the adaptations were all done as work-for-hire for an educational publisher. So the number that I’ll ultimately adapt is totally up to them. If I had to guess (and I love to guess) I would guess that I’ll probably do about a dozen ultimately. These were all classics and not necessarily children’s books, though I look for the things that the kids will most enjoy in each book and try to really stay true to that. For instance, Moby Dick and Great Expectations have parts that are laugh out loud funny and I wanted to make sure to keep that in my adaptation – that sense of surprise that makes a reader laugh. The point of view of the adaptations always match the point of view in the original.

Terrie: What drew you to the ICL and becoming an instructor with them?

Jan: I was a writer for a number of years before I had a computer so my “writing world” expanded hugely when I got online. I had been writing my own course material to teach writing at community colleges so I was familiar with teaching but I’d never considered distance learning. Still, online I “met” more and more people with experience either taking the Institute courses or teaching them and they raved about them. Also, I got married and had a child and found I couldn’t really keep teaching in the college setting but I wanted to keep that part of my life – the part where I pass on what I know. So ICL seemed a great outlet for that. I applied, was accepted…and the rest is history!

Terrie: What is the best and/or worst thing about being an instructor?

Jan: I learn a lot. My students bring a constantly fresh perspective to writing. There are plenty of things I teach them about getting published but they always teach me things about thinking…about approaching ideas. And many of them also teach me about the world since I have students all over the globe.

Terrie: How do you juggle your writing projects with your instructor commitments?

Jan: Sometimes not so well. I try to do my instructor commitments first and all my other writing projects after. Responding to students takes my best, more creative efforts so I
try to jump on that while I’m fresh. But it’s actually amazing because sometimes it seems I
couldn’t possibly add another thing to my work schedule, but then I do (because I’m not so
good at saying no) and yet everything still gets done. It’s kinda magic that way.

Terrie: I’m sure you’ve had many rejections in your writing career. How do you overcome the disappointment and go on to the next project?

Jan: Well, first I call the editor names. No, not really. Though …you know…they are making a mistake. I sulk a little but I have so many irons in the fire that I really cannot spare a lot of energy on getting too bummed. When I finish one project, I’m starting another before the first gets mailed out. Plus with all the commitments that come to me – there’s never really time to get too “blocked” or stopped in any way. I might take a couple hours off and watch “Bones” on TV while nibbling chocolate, but that’s really about all I can do.

Rejection still hurts, don’t get me wrong. I hate it. I want to sell everything first time out. I
really want kids to connect with my work and that doesn’t happen with it sitting on my hard
drive, but I’ve become a bit more accepting that everything happens in its time. For some of
my stuff, the right time hasn’t come yet.

Terrie: The writers market is a difficult one these days. Do you have any
suggestions for giving our work the “wow” factor? Anything that will make an editor read our work over someone elses?

Jan: Have fun. People forget to have fun when they’re writing. And new writers can be positively grim. They get really wrapped up in making their work “meaningful” and
therefore pick the grimmest stuff to write about sometimes. You know, I rarely shop for a
story by looking for the most dismal thing or the thing that assumes I need a good lecture –
and kids don’t either. If you have fun, you’ll help them have fun…and that’s something
editors look for.

Another important thing it to be careful who you’re connecting with. I see so many stories
where the mom is this amazingly fleshed out character with strong motivation and heroic
actions. And the kid is practically a cardboard cut-out marked “Fix me Mom.” Kids aren’t
looking for stories about mom. So editors aren’t looking for stories about mom. If you find
that your attention (as writer) shifts to the mom as soon as she walks into the story, you really
need to consider not letting her in at all. You have to relate to the young characters. If you
can’t, then your reader can’t either because young readers just aren’t going to connect with
the mom character.

Terrie: Thinking about your writing career, if you could do anything
differently, what would it be and why?

Jan: I would have stopped writing crap more quickly J. Actually, I don’t know. I’ve not been terribly focused in my career and that’s had an effect on how “successful” I am. I mean, I make a decent living on writing and related activities – but because my work is scattered over so much, I don’t have much celebrity, you know? But then, I suspect I’m probably not really the celebrity writer sort. I’m more of a workhorse. I do go work and it’s consistently good so a publisher can count on me, BUT I suspect I’m not really bestseller material. I sort of like the fickle writing life…though, you know…sometimes being a household word would be cool too.

Terrie: Have you ever been asked something about your writing (stories, books or career) that you really didn’t want to answer, but had to? If you have are you willing to share it, and tell us how you dealt with it?

Jan: No, I have no personal boundries so that isn’t likely to pop up J. I mean, folks have asked me things like, “Will you look at my book?” Or “I have this idea for a book you could write – wanna hear it?” And mostly I don’t. Well, that’s not totally true…I do look at people’s writing a good bit in a very cursory “this is why it’s not selling” kind of way. Folks rarely ask me twice. I suspect most people don’t really want to be told what’s actually wrong with something when they come up to a writer on the street – they want to be told something like, “This is too daring for publishers, that’s why they rejected it.” Or “You’re just too new and different.” And when the answer is “this really doesn’t work because of XYZ…no one seems to like that.” So I hate strangers popping up with “will you read my book” because I know they won’t like what they hear. Students and real beginning writers, on the other hand, they tend to actually take criticism and run with it so I love helping them. It’s just hard sometimes to tell which kind of person is asking and I’ve had folks pretty disgruntled with me before.

Terrie: You are the editor of Kids Writer Magazine. Do you write the articles for this magazine, or do others write them and you just edit them?

Jan: I used to write ALL of it. You wouldn’t believe how much I wrote for that thing. But over time, more and more folks have been willing to step up and help. And sometimes I beg friends. I am totally shameless about begging. I started KMW because I believed it was needed. Children’s magazine were a revelation to me when I was a kid – the idea of stories and articles that come to your house every month. That was like heaven! We couldn’t afford to subscribe but I read them at school and the library and I wanted subscriptions so much. I remember that excitement and how important they were to me. So I value them. But lots of people don’t value children’s magazines. They’re too ephemeral. They aren’t as “good” as books. But that’s not true. They’re amazing. And honestly, if you get a story in HIGHLIGHTS, it’s going to be seen by more kids than most kidlit bestsellers – if your goal is to be read by tons of kids, magazines are where it’s at. So I wanted to start an online magazine that showed magazine writers and magazines some respect. And I wanted to give the writers tools to help them meet the needs of editors. KMW can be a wicked time suck for me, but it’s important to me so somehow I always find time.

Terrie: If I remember correctly, you used to be a journalist. Why did you start writing books and stories for children?

Jan: Well, I’ll write anything for money J. Actually when I escaped from newspapers, I wrote for magazines. I wrote for the magazines that *I* was familiar with so that meant magazines my mom read. I’ve had stuff in craft magazines like Teddy Bear and Friends and National Doll World because my mom read those. I got stuff into Christian magazines because those were available at church. I went into magazine writing assuming that the way to do it was to get to know the magazine well, then write what they seemed to use – it was the only way I could figure to go about it. No one was there to give me hints. I was getting submission information off the masthead because I had no idea things like market guides existed.

Then, I began to do some parenting stuff (because I didn’t have any children. I find it so
much easier to be an expert parent when you don’t have kids J) and my craft stuff started
being more and more kid oriented (because I designed crafts to do with our church groups of
kids). I ended up writing some children’s church curriculum for a large Christian publisher. I
just kind of fell into these things. But I could see more and more of my work was relating to
kids. So I started really looking at kid magazines and that’s when they brought up all these
memories – and I started writing for them. And they bought the work or sent really nice
rejection letters (better than I deserved sometimes). But I brought the same technique I’d used
to sell to adult magazines – I read them like crazy and then started submitting. I do that
because I hate rejection and I seem to sell more when I start with the magazine and then
write.

Now I also do work for hire. That again sort of fell in my lap – friends telling me about
openings. I applied. Now I do them. I like work for hire because it’s a sure paycheck and a short deadline. It’s easier for me to handle it when time is kept short.

Terrie: Thank you Jan for answering my questions. I really appreciate you giving of your time to do this. I hope my readers have found answers to some of the questions they might have, but didn't want to ask.

Thank you to my readers for visiting my interview today. I hope you have enjoyed your visit. I look forward to my next interview - details to follow.

What Do you see out of your Writing Window?

2009-10-29T17:00:00.006Z

Writers seem to enjoy talking about where they write, what their writing space looks like, and what computer system they like using, amongst other things.

Yes, I enjoy this subject too. I used to have a desk to write at, my writing space was filled with piles of books, papers, and other things writing. Now I have the end of my dining table, and no personal space to write. This is mainly due to a lack of space in our house. You can only put so much furniture in a shoe box, right?

Anyway, I didn't want to write about what my writing space looks like. I wanted to write about what I see out of the window while I'm writing. I am lucky enough to live in the country, so the views from all my windows are beautiful.

Those people who have been following my blog for a while may recognise this picture. I had it at the top of my blog until I decided to do a little decorating. Well, this was the view out of the window at my last house. Rather dark, rather misty, but beautiful all the same.

Now, when I look out of my window, I see a small pond with ducks peacefully gliding on its surface. I see trees and bushes surrounding the pond, and I see fields stretching far back.

At the moment, there is a group of water buffalo cows and a calf inhabiting the field directly behind our house. To think that in their natural surroundings these are wild animals, yet here they are so friendly. At times when I need to clear my head, all I need to do is to go and stand at the fence for a while. The buffalo are there to see what I am doing.

I'm lucky, I have a peaceful environment. I have the wildlife. I have the farm animals. But most of all, I have a beautiful view. What more can a writer want?

M E D I A R E L E A S E

2009-10-27T16:49:00.003Z

CONTACT: Terrie Hope, Children’s Author
Email: terriehope@btinternet.com
Blog: http://tbhope.blogspot.com/

For Immediate Release

Guest Author, Jan Fields at Terrie Hope’s Write What Your Heart Desires

Terrie Hope explores the written word through your heart desires at http://tbhope.blogspot.com/. Come along with Terrie on her weekly chats such as “This Business Called Writing” and interviews of professionals in the trenches of writing for children.

Stop by Friday, October 30th and visit with Terrie’s guest author, Jan Fields. Jan will be checking-in throughout the day to chat and field any questions you may have.

Thank you in advance for your interest.

###

Thank you

2009-10-24T20:49:00.003+01:00

This post is just to say thank you to everyone who visited my blog yesterday to read my interview with Donna. I appreciate all the lovely comments left by those who chose to leave comments.

I will have a new interview up on friday the 30th October. Details to follow.

Interview with Donna McDine

2009-10-23T11:22:00.004+01:00

Welcome to my first Author interview. I’m hoping this is the first of many to come. Thank you to Donna McDine for being my "guinea pig" for this project.

Please read through the interview, and feel free to leave any questions you have for Donna. She will be popping in throughout the day to answer questions.

Terrie: Please tell us a few things about yourself.

Donna: I am a wife, mother, and writer. Married for 20 years and raising now 14 and 11 year old daughters certainly has its roller coaster moments. Fortunate enough to work from home the last 11 years, first as an administrative assistant and since January 2010 as the Marketing Manager at Stories for Children Magazine, I cherish the moments I’m available for my girls, especially when they come home from school.

Terrie: Why and when did you start writing?

Donna: I first came across the Institute of Children’s aptitude test in 2006 and longing for something more fulfilling for a career I took the plunge, completed the test and mailed it in. I graduated in 2007 and haven’t looked back since. My first publishing credit was July 2007 with Stories for Children Magazine. Needless to say having VS Grenier offer me the marketing manager position definitely brought my writing career full circle.

Terrie: What genre do you like writing the most, and why?

Donna: At the beginning of my writing career I felt I wanted to write for the young adult, but my research and ideas lead me to the early reader and middle grade range. I’ve finally finished the first draft of my historical fiction manuscript and now I must get my editor hat on and begin the next task in accomplishing a finished manuscript for submission.

Terrie: What is your best age group to write for?

Donna: Hmm. This is hard to say. This may sound like I’m avoiding the question, but it depends what topic I’m brainstorming on. For example, for several of my non-fiction articles I originally envisioned them for the 12 plus range and after research and staying within the word count guidelines I find myself writing more in the 5-8 year old range.

Terrie: Is there any particular reason for this?

Donna: I believe this is the age range I’m most comfortable with.

Terrie: Thinking of books you've read, which one stands out, and why?

Donna: This is a tough one. I’ve read so many books over the years it truly is hard to pick one. So I’m going to name a few:

Victory by Susan Cooper. The author seamlessly transports the reader back and forth from current and past eras and you almost forget you are reading about two different main characters.

The Rock of Realm by Lea Schizas. I have never been one to pickup and enjoy a fantasy novel, but with the superb writing talent of Schizas I found myself mesmerized from the onset.

Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines by Beverly Stowe McClure. I’ve always been fascinated by history and McClure expertly brings you into this fascinating era. You can practically hear the echo of the cannons from within the caves, and the rustling of the crinoline skirts. Now that’s great writing.

Terrie: Is there another writer that you have aspired to be like, or have you always enjoyed your own unique writing style and methods?

Donna: I really can’t say who I’d aspire to be like without sounding like a stalker. LOL. With all seriousness, there are many who I admire especially with all the juggling they do with not only their writing careers, but always taking the time to help others. I’m not going to list names in fear of missing someone. And as my wise Nana used to say, “Be yourself my dear, no one else sees the world as you do, take your dream and soar.”

Terrie: If you were ever stranded on a deserted island, what are the three things you would like to have with you, and why are they important to you?

Donna: Husband, Nicole & Hayley, Graf Von Faber-Castell Pen & Refills, a trunk load of writing pads, and my best girlfriend. Why? Without family I’m not whole, without my writing I may explode, and without my best girlfriend I may become an emotional mess. I’ve gone outside the guidelines (and I know in the writing world that’s a no-no), but my choices are imperative.

Terrie: If you hadn't become a writer is there anything else you would have wanted to do?

Donna: Web design.

Terrie: You started a writers newsletter. What inspired you to take on this project, and what are you looking for as contributions to the newsletter?

Donna: In the midst of attending the 2008 Muse Online Writers Conference I began to learn about platform. One of the main points of platform is to get your name known before your book deal. I was then inspired to publish a monthly newsletter of interviews from the children’s publishing industry and include one book review (normally tied into one of the interviews), proclaim your successes column, and a submission based Reflections or Dreams column. This is a non-paying market at this time. Submissions can be either fiction or non-fiction up to 500-words on any aspect of one’s life whether it be writing or not.

Terrie: Can you give us one highlight of your writing career?

Donna: One highlight? What’s with the tough questions? Not to sound like a cliché, but each publishing success holds a special meaning. I’ll narrow it down to three: Entering the 77th Annual Writer’s Digest Contest and placing 12th in the Children’s/Young Adult category; Meeting Lynda Burch, publisher of Guardian Angel Publishing at the 2008 Muse Online Writers Conference and submitting my Writer’s Digest winning manuscript The Golden Pathway and have it accepted by GAP resulting in my first book contract, and unexpectedly being offered the Marketing Manager position at Stories for Children Magazine by VS Grenier.

Terrie: Is there anything else you've never been asked, but would love to tell others?

Donna: Go with your inspiration and instinct. If you feel something is NOT right steer clear, if something FEELS right, go for the adventure and bloom!

Terrie: Donna, thank you so much for taking the time to answer these questions. I’m sure my readers will have questions for you. I would like to take the opportunity to wish you great success with your new book.

NaNo, I'm looking forward to it

2009-10-21T18:34:00.002+01:00

Well, November is rapidly approaching, and so is NaNoWriMo - or maybe better known to some as National Novel Writers Month. Its the month we all go crazy, and our keyboards don't know what has hit them.

I did NaNo for the first time last year. I really thought I was mad - 50,000 words in 30 days. You have to be totally crazy to write 50,000 in one month, right? Well, not altogether. Look at NaNo as fun. I hear that maniacal laughter.

Believe me, it is fun. Its also hard work. But just think of the end result. You could be sitting with the first draft for a long thought up novel by the time you pull yourself away from the computer at midnight on the 30th november. On the otherhand, you could be sitting with a load of trash, that is only fit for the shredder, or the delete button.

But whatever the end result, you can look back on the month with a smile on your face, knowing that you have put all of 50,000 or more or less words on the computer. Give yourself a pat on the back, walk away from the computer, and give your life back to your family.

Now what about cleaning, meals, drinks and all the other things that go with family life? Well, the better half will just have to take your place. Afterall, it is only 30 days, {maniacal laughter again}. The rest of the family will just have to fend for themselves. You will probably look like you haven't slept in days, your eyes will be square from looking at the computer screen, and you and your keyboard will be the greatest of buddies - you'll wonder how you managed without it at your fingertips until now.

And, once you've stocked the freezer with ready meals, filled the water bottles, done all the other preparation needed to get going on NaNo, you will be wondering when you are going to edit your masterpiece. Well, wonder no more. Just send that inner editor on a 30 day vacation. Throw him or her out and lock the door. There is no need to do any editing for the whole 30 days. That comes later.

And once you've finished NaNo, what are you going to do? Well, if you are lucky enough to be on the ICL Writers Retreat {biased here}, you will have your fellow NaNoers to share with. There will no doubt be a post NaNo thread where you can get over your no more NaNo blues.

Now, lastly, for those new NaNoers. If you are worried, don't be. You are amongst over 100,000 other people writing those, ummm, words in 30 days. We are all in it together. You are not alone. And you will look back at the end of the month, and see your achievements.

Roll on November,and let's have some fun.

M E D I A R E L E A S E

2009-10-19T21:06:00.003+01:00

CONTACT: Terrie Hope, Children’s Author
Email: terriehope@btinternet.com
Blog: http://tbhope.blogspot.com/

For Immediate Release

Guest Author, Donna McDine at Terrie Hope’s Write What Your Heart Desires

Terrie Hope explores the written word through your heart desires at http://tbhope.blogspot.com/. Come along with Terrie on her weekly chats such as “This Business Called Writing” and interviews of professionals in the trenches of writing for children.

Stop by Friday, October 23rd and visit with Terrie’s guest author, Donna McDine. Donna will be checking-in throughout the day to chat and field any questions you may have.

Thank you in advance for your interest.

###

Interview

2009-10-17T15:13:00.002+01:00

I will have an interview with Donna McDine, childrens author, posted here on Friday 23rd October. Please come along and read what she has to say.

Also watch this space for more information about the interview.

This business called Writing

2009-10-16T07:28:00.002+01:00

One thing I've noticed since I've been on the Writing boards is the passion everyone has for writing. Whether we are amongst the lucky ones who get plenty of time to write, or amongst those of us who have to catch a few minutes here and there, we all have the same goal. To write.

We all have our favorite subjects, well I write whatever comes to mind. We have our favorite age groups. Umm, again I write for any age group. I don't know if this is a problem, I just don't want to restrict myself to something I don't necessarily want to do.

But the one problem that I think many writers have is loneliness. Writing is a lonely business. Yes, we can get ideas from other people, we can find someone to type up our story, if we so choose. We can get others to read our master piece. Yet, at the end of the day, it is ours, and we have to put our stamp on it. That means taking that time to put pen to paper, fingers to keyboard. Most of all, we need to concentrate and get the best story we can from that idea that came to us in the middle of the night as the house was still.

The upside of that loneliness is the end result. Once we've put those words on paper, or the computer, we've edited, taken out all the trash, and polished up that piece that we've worked so hard on, we put it together to send out to our chosen publisher for possible inclusion in a magazine.

Having said that, can anyone understand the frustration we have while we wait for news on the fate of our baby? This is a real test of our patience. But, somehow we do it, and finally that letter comes through the door. And if we are amongst the lucky ones, the letter is an acceptance. If not, it is getting over the rejection, picking ourselves up, and starting again.

This is a lonely business, it is sometimes a hurtful business. But it is a rewarding business. To my fellow writers on the boards, we are all in this together. And while we sit alone at our desks, kitchen tables, or wherever we churn out those stories, we can remember that we have support from the friends, though virtual, that we have made on the message boards, oh and the critique and writing groups that we may have been lucky enough to join.

Until next time, happy writing, and wishing you all success.

Distractions in Writing

2009-10-13T09:39:00.002+01:00

I sit at the computer and look at the screen. I want to put words on paper, but they are just not there. The phone rings, my son wants my attention, the dogs bark, distractions that take me away from the computer, away from the blank page, away from the writing.

Even adding a post to my blog is difficult. I am frustrated, even annoyed that I am unable to write. It is all I want to do, and there are so many things that take me away from writing. I so want to have a story ready for publication, maybe, hopefully one day soon I will have the success I crave.

It is good to know there is such a great support network on the message boards I frequent. These too are another distraction, but even if I am not writing a story or doing some research, or some other writing related exercise, when I'm touring the boards I am constantly reminded of why I am there.

I know that one day I will take the plunge and submit that story or article, I will sit and wait for the reply, hoping that it will be good news. I will one day be published in a magazine. I will be happy.

And, when that day arrives, I will have time to write, research, edit, read, and enjoy the one thing I love to do.

And while I ponder the day I will be able to send a story for possible publication, I think back to a week or so ago, when my college diploma came through the door. It is great to get the diploma, but it will be even better when I get that acceptance letter through the door.

I know that day will come, and I look forward to it.

Time Flies

2009-08-12T14:02:00.002+01:00

The saying goes that time flies when you're having fun. It seems in my life I see time flying without the fun.

We have recently moved to a new house, a new town or should I say, village, and a new job. When the problem arose that a field had to be fenced with electric fencing, where's the problem in that, you say, we knew it could be done. And here's the problem - it had to have pigs on it in two weeks.

My husband came home and told me his predicament, and hearing this, I offered my services for a few hours to get them started, while they looked for some people to do the job.

Well, the fencers never arrived. We did have a team to put in wooden posts, but that was all. Anyway, the time was running out and the job needed doing. So, my few hours turned into a few days, which turned into two weeks.

Those two weeks flew by, and at 9.30pm on the last night, we were able to stand back and see the pigs on the field. I'd better add here that the fencing was nowhere near finished, but it was useable. I thought my fencing was at an end.

I couldn't have been more wrong. The existing paddocks and housing for the pigs was filling up fast and more was needed, so it was back to the grindstone for me. I finally finished the fencing about a week ago. It had to be done around the other chores of everyday life. Thinking it would be an hour or so on the last day, I set to work, now helped by two of the farmhands. Soon after we arrived on the farm, I noticed two boars fighting, not a pretty sight, and phoned my hubby to help. He asked if we could split them. Do I have to? I thought, as I went off to get the farmhands to help. We split them up and finished the fencing.

And I sighed, with relief of course.

Well, I said all that to say say this. I have put my writing on the backburner again. But I am getting back to it. One day, I will be able to write the way I want to, all day.

So in closing, time does fly and I can continue to dream.

2009-06-26T11:58:00.002+01:00

As this year races by, I was reminded that I haven't been back to my blog for a while.

I have though about posting something, but have just not got round to doing it. I suppose that is a problem we all have at some time.

Well, as I write this, I have one more course assignment to write. I have mixed feelings about this. But I know that although I may be at the end of a great period, I still have friends with the same interests as me. I know I can still chat with them all, and most of all, the support will remain.

But as I get to the end of one chapter, I know a new chapter will begin. I am hoping to put more time into my writing, and most of all, I want to get my stories out there and published. I really want to see the benefits of the work I have put in over the years.

So, until my next post. here's wishing any writer friends who may be reading this, a very happy successful time until the next time.

Where have the days gone?

2009-04-29T08:05:00.002+01:00

I have been putting off posting a new message for ages now. I have thought about it, but the stresses and strains of todays living have taken priority over other things.

I sit here today, pondering what to add to my blog. The months are flying by, and we have made some changes. In March we received the bad news that we would need to find other employment, you know, the economic situation, the credit crunch ....

Well, luck was on our side, and two interviews later, we had secured a job. Needless to say, it has been one of the best moves we have made. The house is small, the views are great, and the job is a dream (so far), even if it is very hard work. We are living right next to the farm dairy, and wouldn't even know it is there.

One of the highlights here is the water buffalo. These animals are very inquisitive and love the attention given to them by humans. They will back off when approached though. But they are great. We were watching them in a field one day, and they bounce around just like calves playing.

The break between messages has been a long one. I hope that I will be able to get on here more often. I look forward to your visits, and hope you enjoy coming to my place.

Sign up for a new and exciting Newsletter

2009-01-03T15:29:00.003Z

Looking for a newsletter with lots of information. Sign up for this new newsletter. Please see the following information about it.

Free Newsletter – “Write What Inspires You!” by Donna M. McDine

Coming off the inspiration of The 2008 Muse Online Conference, I have embarked on creating my FREE newsletter, “Write What Inspires You!” to be published monthly.

Each issue will contain:

Welcome Message
Author, Editor and Illustrator Interviews
Book Review(s)
Proclaim Your Successes
Reflections or Dreams
Additional categories may be added.

The newsletter is currently book through June 2008 with exciting interviews and submissions from all levels of expertise, except for the category Proclaim Your Successes. Go ahead and submit your news to be included in the next issue.

Momentum and interest continue to build on a daily basis and the opt-in subscriber list stands at slightly over 90 all with just two issues released.

If you would like to contribute to future issues please contact Donna McDine at dmcdine@optonline.net and pitch your idea.

To subscribe to the Free “Write What Inspires You!” Newsletter, send an email to Donna McDine at: dmcdine@optonline.net and indicate Free Newsletter in the subject line

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I look forward to hearing from you.

Here’s to your inspiration!

Regards,
Donna M. McDine
Children's Author
Member SCBWI

Website:
http://www.donnamcdine.com

Blog:
http://www.donna-mcdine.blogspot.com ~ Write What Inspires You!

Newsletter:
Write What Inspires You! - opt-in @ http://www.donnamcdine.com

Email: Tel: Cell:
dmcdine@optonline.net 845-359-6646 845-721-7802

A New Day, A New Year

2009-01-01T20:24:00.003Z

It took a lot to stay awake until midnight last night. But how can you go to bed when the new year is just around the corner.

Well, midnight finally arrived, with a second added on before the clock struck 12., something to do with the earth going round the sun, or something like that. A few fireworks later, and we were headed for bed.

Warm and comfortable, we were just dozing off, when we were woken by the late setting off of more fireworks. Although we weren't in a deep sleep at the time, it wasn't far off. If it wasn't for the fact that work required an early start today, this wouldn't have been a problem. The fireworks had started our dogs off, and they then barked for the next few minutes. The joys of New Year.

Well, we got through last night, we've struggled through today, and we look forward to this year. It can only get better, or should I say, it can only be better than the last few.