My last post was about the greeting card ideas I sent out to a publisher. I was told a final decision would be made by mid-June. Maybe their running late? Maybe my ideas were so hot that they called in their international greeting card gurus to clammer over them. Unlikely, but just maybe.
I e-mailed the editor today to find out the final decision. I have questions running in my mind like, have they not told me because my card ideas weren't accepted? Should I have e-mailed sooner? Would that have put me on their radar more? Maybe this whole thing is a scam and all greeting card companies take all the submissions and print them as their own idea. I mean, who would know? I'm not going to be scanning their shelves for my ideas just incase they stole them. Unlikely, but just maybe.
On another note, I've really got to start writing again. I've acheived much on the home front, and some things, like my piano playing has gotten so much better. The dedicated time for writing though is still a challenge. They say if you want something enough, it's not so hard, you just get it done. I don't think that's quite true. There's some truth there, but not the whole truth, is it?
And the Winner is?!
Watch out children's literary world, here I come! I blog about lessons I learn while I write children's picture books and young adult novels. I've been doing a bit here and there for years when priorities allowed. I've recently been able to make larger time commitments, and I have a finished picture book that I'm preparing to attempt the publishing relm. My brain and journal hold so many more stories that are waiting to be hatched. I'll document tips, lessons and processes from conception through publishing (let's think positively, here), all on my blog for all to enjoy. What a beautiful adventure it is!
Occupation? Greeting Card Author
I'm super excited about the prospect of being a writer of greeting cards. Hmm, what would my title be? Greeting Card Author? Greeting Card Writer? Conveyor of Relationship Strengthening Ideas? When I was growing up I thought about that sort of thing. Ditties, poems, sentiments, silly and clever hahas. When asked, "So, what do you do?" I would love to reply, "I am a mother of two, and an author of children's stories, novels, and greeting cards." Yep, I'd like all of those in my repertoire, how fun!
There are many greeting card companies. For my first submission, I chose one that fits my witty side. If you are thinking you might want to submit all those clever ideas you have, just do a good Internet search and find a company that has cards that fit your style. There are many types; funny, naughty, sentimental, Christian, and there are even a couple of web sites that you can create your cards, and customers can order your designs, have them printed, and sent out by the host company. The largest companies seem to have staff writers instead of free-lance. For the companies that accept free-lance work, some companies want the ideas sent snail mail, and some are e-mailed. Some have a minimum number of ideas that must be sent together. Just make sure you follow the company's guidelines (usually found on their website) to make sure your ideas would fit what that company does. In all my experience...well, that's what I've learned so far.
I'll let you know how it goes!
Watch out children's literary world, here I come! I blog about lessons I learn while I write children's picture books and young adult novels. I've been doing a bit here and there for years when priorities allowed. I've recently been able to make larger time commitments, and I have a finished picture book that I'm preparing to attempt the publishing relm. My brain and journal hold so many more stories that are waiting to be hatched. I'll document tips, lessons and processes from conception through publishing (let's think positively, here), all on my blog for all to enjoy. What a beautiful adventure it is!
Toilet Monster...Still
And I thought I was done, ha!
I was happily typing along, doing what I thought were the last few changes to my Toilet Monster story,
when during a conversation with my sister, I discovered that if I rearrange the storyline it would be so much better! Arg! Yeah!
Don't worry, the basic premise for my story about a giant is well noted and is contentedly waiting it's turn. I am going to finish my Toilet Monster story first. Once it is written, I'll hand it over for illustration.
While the story is out for illustration, I'll search and study how to e-publish. I'm so excited to learn how to e-publish, and I can't stop smiling about the thought of one of my stories being accessible to others to enjoy. I can sense the feeling of momentum and smell the coming accomplishment. The end result of the changes will be well worth the extra effort, and as I find out how to e-publish an illustrated children's book, I'll let you know.
Check out my handmade deadlines on the right. I'm incorporating time dedicated to writing into my daily routine to meet my deadlines. It seems if it's not on the schedule, it doesn't get done...so now it's on the schedule.
I was happily typing along, doing what I thought were the last few changes to my Toilet Monster story,
 |
| An awesome illustration by my son. I figure it's close to what I look like when happlily typing along. ;) |
when during a conversation with my sister, I discovered that if I rearrange the storyline it would be so much better! Arg! Yeah!
Don't worry, the basic premise for my story about a giant is well noted and is contentedly waiting it's turn. I am going to finish my Toilet Monster story first. Once it is written, I'll hand it over for illustration.
While the story is out for illustration, I'll search and study how to e-publish. I'm so excited to learn how to e-publish, and I can't stop smiling about the thought of one of my stories being accessible to others to enjoy. I can sense the feeling of momentum and smell the coming accomplishment. The end result of the changes will be well worth the extra effort, and as I find out how to e-publish an illustrated children's book, I'll let you know.
Check out my handmade deadlines on the right. I'm incorporating time dedicated to writing into my daily routine to meet my deadlines. It seems if it's not on the schedule, it doesn't get done...so now it's on the schedule.
Watch out children's literary world, here I come! I blog about lessons I learn while I write children's picture books and young adult novels. I've been doing a bit here and there for years when priorities allowed. I've recently been able to make larger time commitments, and I have a finished picture book that I'm preparing to attempt the publishing relm. My brain and journal hold so many more stories that are waiting to be hatched. I'll document tips, lessons and processes from conception through publishing (let's think positively, here), all on my blog for all to enjoy. What a beautiful adventure it is!
Giants!
Announcing my new illustrated children story's key element: giants! It's going to be a story inspired by and written for my youngest child. I don't know the characters or premise yet, just that at least one character will be a giant. I'm also going to attempt illustrating. I'm terrified of the outcome, but I won't improve unless I practice. Here's my first practice piece. I sat down with the intention to create something with a giant's something-ness. IPad doodling I suppose. It was actually a lot of fun! I realize I lack training, knowledge, know-how and experience, but I've got to start somewhere!
I think certain giant stories and ideas have been overdone, so I'm doing some research. I want to discover what's been done, what works, what doesn't and why. In my community's many libraries, there was an abundance of Jack and the Beanstalk re-tellings, and even a spin on it from his sister's perspective. Boy oh boy has that one been done. There's also a tale from Ireland that I found many versions of, but I'm not familiar with it, so I want to read a few and find out why it's been copied so many times. Those two seemed to dominate the giant themed books.
I chose one that I was hopeful to be unique to read before I left the library.
It's a book called Mangaboom, by Charlotte Pomerantz and pictures are by Anita Lobel. At first glance I thought the illustrations were playful and inviting, but I was hesitant at the length of the text. I was also concerned when Mangaboom said, among other things, that she spoke Spanish and English, and the little boy said he knew a few words in Spanish. I was afraid this promising story was going to turn out to be a language lesson.
When I began reading, the story was intriguing and the characters were charming. The languages did not detract from the story, but added to it in a welcoming manner. Mangaboom, the lady-giant, lives in the top of a mango tree. A boy happens upon her. They become fast friends. He is an honored guest as she receives love letters and is set up with eligible giants by her aunt. He is a witness to a true lady finding love. A beloved, who loves her for all she is. The story is charming, witty, and I was gently taught by Mangaboom what a lady is. This story is a gem among giants.
What Works:
The lady-giant seems normal and mostly because she believes she's great the way she is, and it's not preachy or overbearing
Each character has a distinct voice; the lady, the boy, the over-bearing aunt, the unworthy eligibles, and the Romeo
Colorful, inviting, fitting illustration without the perfect angles, perspectives, planes...per my sister who I asked what the proper vocabulary is. Apparently I need to learn more about this! I loved the playful imperfection!
There wasn't any danger! It seems giants are usually deemed dangerous, and why wouldn't they be? If a giants were angered, they could certainly squash us poor tiny folks. This was just a story whose characters happened to be giants. Very neat.
What Doesn't Work:
Mangaboom likes to "skinny-dip and turn cartwheels on the beach". While it gives insight to her character, and it's hilarious to think about, I'm undecided as to whether it's appropriate for a children's book to refer to skinny-dipping. Hehe! I'm still giggling.
I think certain giant stories and ideas have been overdone, so I'm doing some research. I want to discover what's been done, what works, what doesn't and why. In my community's many libraries, there was an abundance of Jack and the Beanstalk re-tellings, and even a spin on it from his sister's perspective. Boy oh boy has that one been done. There's also a tale from Ireland that I found many versions of, but I'm not familiar with it, so I want to read a few and find out why it's been copied so many times. Those two seemed to dominate the giant themed books.
I chose one that I was hopeful to be unique to read before I left the library.
It's a book called Mangaboom, by Charlotte Pomerantz and pictures are by Anita Lobel. At first glance I thought the illustrations were playful and inviting, but I was hesitant at the length of the text. I was also concerned when Mangaboom said, among other things, that she spoke Spanish and English, and the little boy said he knew a few words in Spanish. I was afraid this promising story was going to turn out to be a language lesson.
When I began reading, the story was intriguing and the characters were charming. The languages did not detract from the story, but added to it in a welcoming manner. Mangaboom, the lady-giant, lives in the top of a mango tree. A boy happens upon her. They become fast friends. He is an honored guest as she receives love letters and is set up with eligible giants by her aunt. He is a witness to a true lady finding love. A beloved, who loves her for all she is. The story is charming, witty, and I was gently taught by Mangaboom what a lady is. This story is a gem among giants.
What Works:
The lady-giant seems normal and mostly because she believes she's great the way she is, and it's not preachy or overbearing
Each character has a distinct voice; the lady, the boy, the over-bearing aunt, the unworthy eligibles, and the Romeo
Colorful, inviting, fitting illustration without the perfect angles, perspectives, planes...per my sister who I asked what the proper vocabulary is. Apparently I need to learn more about this! I loved the playful imperfection!
There wasn't any danger! It seems giants are usually deemed dangerous, and why wouldn't they be? If a giants were angered, they could certainly squash us poor tiny folks. This was just a story whose characters happened to be giants. Very neat.
What Doesn't Work:
Mangaboom likes to "skinny-dip and turn cartwheels on the beach". While it gives insight to her character, and it's hilarious to think about, I'm undecided as to whether it's appropriate for a children's book to refer to skinny-dipping. Hehe! I'm still giggling.
Watch out children's literary world, here I come! I blog about lessons I learn while I write children's picture books and young adult novels. I've been doing a bit here and there for years when priorities allowed. I've recently been able to make larger time commitments, and I have a finished picture book that I'm preparing to attempt the publishing relm. My brain and journal hold so many more stories that are waiting to be hatched. I'll document tips, lessons and processes from conception through publishing (let's think positively, here), all on my blog for all to enjoy. What a beautiful adventure it is!
Time to Write!
The last few days have been really busy! I've been switching a couple rooms around in my house including my office. I'm excited to have a more organized space to do my writing in, and I think it will help me be more focused during my dedicated time.
Which reminds me, I need to figure out when that is going to be! During the day is difficult because I have other responsibilities with my children and my home. After my children are in bed things get quiet enough, but I'm busy wrapping up the day or spending time with my hubby.
I would need to get up by 6 a.m. to have any significant amount of time to write in the morning, and sitting still while writing would probably help me fall back asleep. When I wake up, I like to get moving and on to my to-do list. I think my best bet on most days is to finish my to-do list by the kiddo's bedtime and write very soon after they're in bed before I get too sleepy.
I'm super excited to be writing again!! I'm going to refine the Toilet Monster, add to the New King story, and start another children's book. Hopefully I'll have a bit to share with you very soon!
Which reminds me, I need to figure out when that is going to be! During the day is difficult because I have other responsibilities with my children and my home. After my children are in bed things get quiet enough, but I'm busy wrapping up the day or spending time with my hubby.
I would need to get up by 6 a.m. to have any significant amount of time to write in the morning, and sitting still while writing would probably help me fall back asleep. When I wake up, I like to get moving and on to my to-do list. I think my best bet on most days is to finish my to-do list by the kiddo's bedtime and write very soon after they're in bed before I get too sleepy.
I'm super excited to be writing again!! I'm going to refine the Toilet Monster, add to the New King story, and start another children's book. Hopefully I'll have a bit to share with you very soon!
Watch out children's literary world, here I come! I blog about lessons I learn while I write children's picture books and young adult novels. I've been doing a bit here and there for years when priorities allowed. I've recently been able to make larger time commitments, and I have a finished picture book that I'm preparing to attempt the publishing relm. My brain and journal hold so many more stories that are waiting to be hatched. I'll document tips, lessons and processes from conception through publishing (let's think positively, here), all on my blog for all to enjoy. What a beautiful adventure it is!
Test blog!
So it's been a while since I last posted, yikes! I just loaded the Blogger app to my phone. It seems to be where I do most of my media postings, so I thought I'd try blogging. While typing on my phone isn't the most convenient, sometimes just having a device close makes the post happen! Here's to a fabulous year of progress!
Watch out children's literary world, here I come! I blog about lessons I learn while I write children's picture books and young adult novels. I've been doing a bit here and there for years when priorities allowed. I've recently been able to make larger time commitments, and I have a finished picture book that I'm preparing to attempt the publishing relm. My brain and journal hold so many more stories that are waiting to be hatched. I'll document tips, lessons and processes from conception through publishing (let's think positively, here), all on my blog for all to enjoy. What a beautiful adventure it is!
Jump on the Freight Train!
I've been wanting to work toward my NaNoWriMo goal, but I freeze up when I feel overwhelmed, and dear oh dear I feel overwhelmed! I need to melt my nerves!
I thought I had my plot lined out and my characters sorted, but it seems to be a freight train riding off without me. I'm not sure if I should take back control (which my natural tendencies dictate), or if I should just hop on and see where it goes. The latter is likely to take me to a messy, but a more interesting story, so I feel more inclined to hop on the train. It sure is hard to let go of control though! Ah!
Ok, so the plan: Refocus. Turn off the editor voice. Let go and just write, write, write. Dedicate time to it each day. I really do have so much to do during the day as a mother and homemaker. I suppose I'll be getting lots of great practice at time-management and prioritizing. As much as I would love to super scrub my floor right now, I need to realize that some things can wait until my daily or weekly quota is met. After my story is completed with over 50,000 words by the end of November, I'll have lots of material to work with to make a fantastic novel that I will be proud to show to you all!
Any other suggestions?
I thought I had my plot lined out and my characters sorted, but it seems to be a freight train riding off without me. I'm not sure if I should take back control (which my natural tendencies dictate), or if I should just hop on and see where it goes. The latter is likely to take me to a messy, but a more interesting story, so I feel more inclined to hop on the train. It sure is hard to let go of control though! Ah!
Ok, so the plan: Refocus. Turn off the editor voice. Let go and just write, write, write. Dedicate time to it each day. I really do have so much to do during the day as a mother and homemaker. I suppose I'll be getting lots of great practice at time-management and prioritizing. As much as I would love to super scrub my floor right now, I need to realize that some things can wait until my daily or weekly quota is met. After my story is completed with over 50,000 words by the end of November, I'll have lots of material to work with to make a fantastic novel that I will be proud to show to you all!
Any other suggestions?
Watch out children's literary world, here I come! I blog about lessons I learn while I write children's picture books and young adult novels. I've been doing a bit here and there for years when priorities allowed. I've recently been able to make larger time commitments, and I have a finished picture book that I'm preparing to attempt the publishing relm. My brain and journal hold so many more stories that are waiting to be hatched. I'll document tips, lessons and processes from conception through publishing (let's think positively, here), all on my blog for all to enjoy. What a beautiful adventure it is!
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