Southern Sass

TELL ME THAT YOU LIKE IT TRAILER

2009-09-08T17:05:00.002-04:00

LOOKING GOOD!

2009-09-05T23:33:00.003-04:00

I just received a rough copy of the cover for my new book and I am excited! It looks great! In many ways, writing the book is the easy part. Getting the word out - and making all the little decisions about the final product...these things are much more difficult for me. Self promotion does not come naturally to a southern gal! Actually, I have often joked that my self confidence couldn't fill a matchbook! So, it is a challenge, to say the least, for me to market myself - and my books.

That said - I AM proud of them. I think they are good reads. I try to write books with the same kind of pacing that I like to read. Kind of like a thrill ride. So, I will continue to keep you updated on the progress of book two - and hope that you will spread the word. And - if you have read my first book, please leave a review. I would be interested to know what you think.

WHO KNOWS WHAT LURKS IN THE HEARTS OF MEN...

2009-09-01T16:08:00.003-04:00

Here we go again. My second novel will soon be coming out! Anyone who thinks writing is lucrative, is sadly mistaken. Unless you are J.K. Rowling! I love to write - and I want people to READ what I write, and I think that is the only pay off. At least, I am entering into this publication with a more realistic view of what to expect.

The world of publishing has changed so much - and everything seems to be moving into the digital medium. Online bookstores are the way to go - and I am going to make that my exclusive base for sales. When my first book was published, I went into Barnes and Noble proudly carrying my copy, thinking they would certainly want to stock 20 copies! Ha! After much begging, they agreed to stock 5 - and then 5 more - and finally, I stopped bugging them and just directed people to Amazon.

Anyone who knows me thinks of me as funny and light - but when they read my books they are shocked. I write crime thrillers. I write grizzly crime filled with real bad guys. I never thought much about it until I kept running into people who claimed they couldn't read anything with bad words in it. These same people read lurid romance novels - I suppose they are edifying. I struggled with this for quite awhile. Being a people pleaser, it was hard to think that I was horrifying anyone! But, I've decided that they just have to get over it! News Flash! Bad guys say bad words - and they do bad things! AND - in my books, so far, the good guys win.

Crazy how we (okay - I) can let other people's opinions paralyze us. The hardest part about writing crime is crawling into the minds of the criminals - going into the dark places and trying to think like they think. That's why I try to balance everything by spending time doing art - and reading fun books and playing with Bizy and Sophie. But, when it comes down to it- when I write, crime comes out.

Hmmm...maybe I have some dormant murderous tendencies. Hee, Hee!

ONE PERSON'S POOP IS ANOTHER PERSON'S POETRY

2009-05-29T13:05:00.003-04:00

Last night I attended a "Writing Show". The topic was writing fiction for Young Adults. I hadn't been to one of these events in over a year, but this topic interested me, so I decided to go. For days the weatherman has predicted rain - and not a single drop has fallen. So - yesterday's prediction was the same - except that the heaven's actually opened just about the time I was leaving the house. Fortunately, every time I had to get out of the car - the rain stopped...but I was enveloped in a blanket of humidity so thick it was difficult to breathe. And - it was DEATH to my hair. A slow death, actually. As I was sitting inside, listening to the speakers, I could feel my hair slowly falling, getting flatter and flatter - and my bangs stretching longer and longer until they rested uncomfortably on my eyelashes. I've seen women whose hair is deliberately in their eyes, and I don't know how they stand it! Plus - humidity and hair spray makes for a sticky mess.

The speakers were not stellar - I really didn't learn anything new...but I did enjoy going, and had an interesting conversation with the woman next to me, especially during the parts of the program when we couldn't hear. (screwy sound system) It is always nice to meet new people. I think we might get together again sometime over coffee or something.

It was really crowded. Mostly because one of the speakers was a middle school teacher and she was offering her students extra credit if they attended. I was seated behind four squirming preteens who were busy texting each other. Guess they weren't learning anything new either!

One writer said that she had an idea for her next book: The Haiku of Poo...not "Pooh" as in Winnie the Pooh...but poo as in poop. I certainly won't be rushing out to buy that one - but it did serve one purpose. I realized that maybe my ideas aren't crazy after all. In my opinion - nothing could be dumber than poetry about poop!

IF YOU SEE A DEAD BODY...

2009-05-02T15:20:00.003-04:00

Last night I watched the latest episode of the new police drama, "Southland." I really like this show - actually, I am a sucker for all the crime drama shows on TV. In this episode, however, I saw something that disturbed me. It was a scene in which three or four middle-school-aged kids came upon a naked woman's dead body in an alley. They threw rocks at it and took videos of themselves kicking the body and laughing. At first, I tried to tell myself that this would never happen, but the more I thought about it, I knew that it was completely realistic. Later that evening on Nightline, there was a story about a teenager who set his house on fire and murdered his parents. And - Dateline was advertising a story about another young man who murdered his mother for no apparent reason. Dear God.

Earlier yesterday, I caught an interview with Lenore Skenazy - the woman who let her nine year old son ride the subway by himself, and has now written a book entitled, "Free Range Kids - Giving Our Children the Freedom We Had Without Going Nuts With Worry." (A ridiculously long title for a book!)

I started thinking about what it was like when I was growing up. Yes - I roamed the neighborhood, stayed out past dark playing...I didn't know anyone who was ADD or ADHD...no autism...and I certainly didn't know anyone who would throw rocks at a dead body for fun!

So - what's happened??? It is certainly a different world. I have no idea what is causing the ADD/Autism. Could be immunization...could be additives in our food...could be a lot of things. As for the violence and desensitization of our children I can find easy answers by blaming violent video games, movies and TV - but I think there is more to it. We make sure our children have an education - we fill them with facts and skills - but no one seems to be teaching them character. No one is teaching our kids the value of life.

I don't remember adults giving me "character" lessons - or sitting me down and lecturing me about how important life is - but I think I was taught these things through community...through church. I have to add that the church of my youth seemed a more gentle and kind variety than the ones I know now. And, my school teachers were excellent examples of character. We had boundaries then - and a no-brainer kind of respect for other people. We talked and communicated face to face - not filtered through a computer screen or abbreviated conversations via text messaging.

I realize that it is impossible to return to the good old days - and I wouldn't want to, anyway. But there must be a way to reclaim integrity and character in our lives. I still think teachers are a vital part of this - but they have been so limited in what they can offer our children. They are constrained by the fear of being sued - and their salaries are abysmal. You have to be Mother Teresa these days to want to be a teacher!

Anyway - I have no real answers here - just lots of questions. And, I can't get that scene out of my mind.

ANOTHER BIRTHDAY

2009-04-28T14:38:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was my birthday. 55. Someone sent me a message asking "Where have the years gone?" Good question. I don't feel 55. Oh - sure, my body feels it. But inside - the real me - doesn't feel 55. I remember my mother seemed so old at 55 - and she acted that way. Perhaps it was simply a different era then. I remember she wore muted colors and was so reserved. Not me. I LOVE bright colors and am happy to own a fabulously wild collection of Reebok Hi-top sneakers. Makes me feel good to dress "happy". At least, that is how I think about it.

I am still growing and learning something new every day - and life seems to be more interesting the older I get. Maybe it's that I don't take things so much for granted and so I see life with more appreciative eyes. I'm not locked into any rigid beliefs - and feel more courageous to try new things than I did when I was younger. I don't feel hampered by outside opinions as much as I used to. That's a move in the right direction, I think.

I'm not so hard on myself. I've learned to be quick to forgive - others and myself. I try not to look back at my mistakes, and not place too much energy in tomorrow. Today is enough for me - and I try to be aware of my blessings on a daily basis. There are a lot of them. Actually, I have discovered that the things I value most at this point in life were not even on my radar when I was younger. The person I thought I wanted to be at 21 is nothing like the person I am at 55. I like the older version so much better.

So - to answer the question "Where did the years go?", I would have to say that perhaps a lot of them passed without me paying attention. Maybe life's circumstances were leading me along. But now, I am aware - I am more accepting of what happens each day - and I feel blessed and happy to have each new day before me.

I would highly recommend age 55 and I hope I have even more praise for age 56. Besides, the alternative to growing older sucks!

INNER HARBOR

2009-04-19T16:17:00.003-04:00

I am back from a mini-vacation to Baltimore. It was a little spur-the-moment -but very much needed and enjoyed. We went to the Inner Harbor. Our hotel (Hyatt) was right on the harbor - with a lovely view. That was wonderful during the evening - but as soon as the sun came up - it was an OVEN in the room!!! Of course we enjoyed the little shops and fun restaurants - but our favorite day was spend in good old Barnes and Noble! I have to defend myself, though - it was a really nice - really big - Barnes and Noble. Some refurbished factory or station of some kind with wood floors and such an open feeling. Also we had fun at the Aquarium. I love going to the aquarium to see all the bizarre creatures of the sea. It is beyond me how anyone could doubt the presence of intelligent design. Such vibrant colors and patterns on little things that float around in the darkness of the sea. Wow. Loved watching the huge rays float along - even liked the sharks.

So am now refreshed and rested. On with life!

PROCRASTINATION

2009-04-11T15:12:00.004-04:00

This has not been an unusually busy week - just a week - and yet, I have not found time to update my blog. Some of it is procrastination. Okay - maybe MOST of it is procrastination. I think I have Spring fever. There is this small window of perfect weather here in Richmond. Not too hot - not humid - and I start staring out the window, thinking of planting flowers, etc. But, reality sets in quickly and I remember that I hate to mess with plants when it is HOT - so I just let the inclination pass. Guess we do get smarter with age.

I just finished reading "Sunday at Tiffany's". DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY ON THIS BOOK. I usually love James Patterson - he is a quick read - perfect for something to read before bed. I especially love his Alex Cross series. This book was a change - I knew that when I got it (on Kindle - which I continue to LOVE). But - it was so stupid, and poorly written. Just goes to show that James Patterson can write crap and still have it soar to the best seller list. It was about a woman who had an imaginary friend as a child - and when she grow up she meets him and they get married. STUPID!!!!! I am still mad about it.

I like to keep a non-fiction book going - and am currently reading "Spiritual Liberation" by Michael Beckwith. I didn't think I would like this book - but so far, he is right on. I especially like his explanation of The Secret. He said that if you put your ATTENTION on your INTENTION then you make decisions moment by moment that cause your desired result to manifest. In other words - if you want to have a new house...your intention...you pay attention to that desire and you make decisions - like getting out of debt, saving money, etc. etc. that will lead to your new house. I have always been disturbed by the idea that you just THINK about something you want and it appears. You have to DO something. I think the Secret is just a revamping of the old "name it and claim it" preaching. Whatever - life doesn't work that way.
I still cannot completely endorse this book - since I haven't finished it yet. Will let you know.

Hope all of you have a Happy Easter!

GET A KINDLE

2009-04-05T15:52:00.002-04:00

The Kindle is FABULOUS!!! It is so easy to use - if you know how to use the computer, it is a cinch. Do not be tempted to buy the Sony version. It requires you to attach the device to your computer and download through the USB port. Kindle does it wirelessly - from anywhere!

I went to Borders on Friday - just to relax. Bookstores do that for me. Better than drugs! Anyway - had a delicious Blueberry Latte and then looked at some new books. I found three I was interested in reading, so I wrote down the titles and looked them up on Kindle. Two of the three were available - so downloaded them in less that a minute for a fraction of the price. Can't beat that! The one that was not available was an older title, so I bought it used from Amazon for $2. I know - I'm not supposed to accumulate any more books, but this was one I will keep.

Filled up my first box of books to donate - now I have to drop it by the library. One box is just the proverbial "drop in the bucket" of what needs to go! May have to up my plan to TWO boxes a week.

Love this Spring weather. Wish it would last for a long time - but I know that heat and humidity are on the way!

CATCHING UP

2009-04-02T15:00:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I went to the oncologist for my three month check-up. Everytime I go, I am filled with gratitude for continued good news. While I was going through all of this, I didn't let my emotions get the best of me. But, once it was over, I realized how scary the whole thing was - and how fleeting life can be. I have a terrific doctor - and again, that is such a blessing.

The Kindle arrived yesterday. I entertained the idea of waiting to open it until my actual birthday - but this morning, curiousity got the better of me, and I ripped open the box. It is SO SMALL! Hard to believe it can contain so many books! I plugged it in and charged it in no time. Now I plan to devote the rest of the afternoon to figuring it out.

I called the local library and asked about book donations - and so I plan to fill one box a week and cart these books out of here - at least the ones that I no longer want. It will be really nice to have a book shelf that actually LOOKS like a book shelf and not some cluttered conglomeration of stuff. I couldn't find a book I wanted in this mess if I tried! Too much to sort through, especially since the books are 4-deep on the shelves!

Simplify, simplify...declutter, declutter. My new mantra.

HELLO WORLD

2009-03-30T13:07:00.002-04:00

"I tell you, the more I think, the more I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people." Vincent van Gogh.

Lately I have been reconnecting with people. It started with Facebook - and Classmates.com. Then it was texting - and this morning I was even instant messaging. I've been reluctant to dive into the constant communication age - but now that I have, I see what I have been missing.

I have made contact with friends from high school (yes, I know - the DARK AGES), communicated with a lost relative or two, and have just been more accessible to everyone. It's a good thing. I think I had become a little too insular. I forgot how much we all need a "community" - a "tribe". I forgot how interconnected we are with one another. How much we are all the same. And how much we can learn from each other.

Every day holds a new lesson - if our hearts are open to learn.

MY LIFE IS MANY, MANY OPEN BOOKS!

2009-03-28T17:48:00.002-04:00

When the Kindle first came out - I was vehemently opposed to it! I love book stores and books, and even wrote a blog entry, I think, about being surrounded with stacks of books and loving it. I love the feel of the page, and the smell of a new book. And - I read a lot. A whole lot.

Since the end of February, I have finished reading six novels. I just kept stacking them by my bed - and they toppled over in the middle of the night and scared the Bejesus out of me. Every bookshelf is filled to overflowing. I have books stacked on the shelves three-deep - piles of books, stacks of books, layers of books...there is simply no more room.

So, I broke down and ordered the Kindle Two.

I feel like a traitor to the literary world. It's like all the zillions of books in my house are glaring at me - and the damn thing hasn't even arrived yet!

I suppose the simple moral to this tale is the proverbial "never say never".

I will let you know how this jump into the modern electronic age goes. Should be interesting, anyway.

TRASH BAGS AND HUMILIATION

2009-03-22T15:13:00.004-04:00

Last week the Almighty Oprah did a show about reducing clutter. Actually, I think she is doing a series of shows on this subject, but, I digress. In this episode, she was responding to a couple who wanted help de-cluttering their vehicle. They had two children who were active in several sports - so all their gear was in the car and there was no room for the kids. However, they underestimated the commitment of this wise talk show host. She had their car transported to the studio - just as it was - without them knowing about it. When the curtain opened on that filthy car, those two people looked like they wanted to simply die. For good reason. I have never seen such a mess! It was literally piled to the ceiling with crap, leaving just enough space for one little child in the back seat, one in the front seat and the driver. Oprah smiled triumphantly and handed them trash bags - and told them to clean it up by the end of the show. I have to admit, the combination of trash bags and worldwide public humiliation was probably effective.

It sure worked on me!

I had put off cleaning my van for over a year. In my defense, I didn't have a lot of trash - just some receipts, pennies (which I believe secretly multiply when we are not looking), umbrellas (okay, a LOT of umbrellas), flashlights (I don't know why), and two packages of fossilized cheese crackers. It took about thirty minutes to empty everything. Then, it was off to Car Pool.

Let me say, that somewhere in my twisted southern upbringing, I was raised to believe that men handle anything to do with cars. But, somehow my husband never received that memo - or, if he did, he is choosing to ignore it. So, over the last few years I have been forced to compromise my Scarlett O'Hara values, and do the necessary maintenance things, like oil changes and state inspections, etc. But I still don't like it. The car wash was next on the list of automotive things to conquer. Surprisingly, I discovered that it really wasn't a bad place to be, except for the loud speaker announcing when the cars were finished. I didn't even have to wait in a long line - and when it was over, my van sparkled. I could almost hear it give an audible sigh of relief. And, I did feel better driving in a clean van.

So, I continue to marvel at the power of Oprah to change lives. I slept well last night knowing that if she comes to check on my van - I'm ready for her. But, I get a little queasy just thinking about what will happen if she turns her de-clutter spotlight on my closet. Then, I will be a goner!

WHEN YOUR NUMBER IS UP!

2009-03-20T12:24:00.004-04:00

The sudden and unexpected death of Natasha Richardson has everyone thinking about the fragility of life. During my recent bout with cancer, I certainly pondered this topic - and I kept wondering if I had done all that I was supposed to do. Who decides what we are supposed to do anyway? And - if we put aside all the "suppose tos" and the "shoulds" and the "ought tos" would we finally be free to live in the moment and find that true path that our hearts are always whispering to us about? (When we are quiet enough to listen!)

William Hurt said, "But I am not going to live forever. And the more I know it, the more amazed I am by being here at all." Knowing our mortality can enhance our awe for being alive. But I am beginning to think that the only way to settle into that groove of life where we follow the call of something - SOMEONE - greater than who we are is to renounce the expectations imposed on us by others. Irving Wallace said, "To be one's self and unafraid whether right or wrong, is more admirable than the easy cowardice of surrender to conformity."

My generation was raised to weigh our actions against the plumb line of "What will people think?" It is a hard habit to break. It affects everything we do - it affects the energy we put out in this world. For example, in writing, I find that I am constantly worrying about what friends, family, even unknown people, will think about ME. Not so much about what I write - but what my writing says about ME. Then, I am super-aware of every word - every letter. Hard to be creative that way.

But what if I broke free from that self-imposed prison? What if I just lived moment by moment trying to be true to my spirit? I think it will take a lot of practice. And, I won't always get it right - but I want to try. If I shock, disappoint, challenge, or perhaps, inspire someone else - then that is living.

Kenny Ausubel said, "Each of us has a spark of life inside us and our highest endeavor ought to be to set off that spark in one another."

If that is our intention moment by moment, day by day - then whenever this life ends - we will have started something that lasts.

LOOK WHO'S BACK!

2009-03-19T15:08:00.002-04:00

Well, I'm back. Sort of. I have found that I can procrastinate forever. Not that I didn't have excuses. I had this little detour called "Cancer". I must admit that it took the proverbial wind out of my sails. I really thought I was prepared for anything - but when the doctor finally said that horrible word, it came as a shock and all the emotions and fears spilled over. But, I weathered the storm and am fine. Just have to keep those dreaded doctor appointments every 3 months. Like looking over my shoulder all the time.

I'm trying not to do that, though. I'm trying to just look ahead and find the best in every day. Difficult during these tough times, however. I am thrilled with Obama as President. We certainly endured what seemed to be an eternal dark night of the soul with Bush. As crazy as our economic crisis is, I think Obama is the one to help lead us out of it. Now - if people will just give him the time to do it. We always want instant answers - instant fixes to everything. This will just take time, patience, and a willingness to put aside our political differences for the common good. (That last part is directed at the current Party of "NO")

I finally took the plunge and signed up for Facebook. Actually, the reason I did it was so that I could see pictures that were posted on my son's page. I have "bumped" into two people I went to high school with. Back in the dark ages. It is kind of fun - and nostalgic. Days and years pass, and before we know it, so many have piled up and we are a long way from where we started. Recalling these two people - remembering who we were then and sharing who we are now - is really wonderful. A gift.

So, even though I am the most computer challenged adult alive...I'm on Facebook! Now I find out there is something called Twitter.....hmmmmmm....maybe next year!!!

SNEAKING BACK IN TO MY BLOG

2008-04-17T14:43:00.002-04:00

I will ease my way back to blogging by posting this quote I found the other day.

"Someday, after mastering the winds, the waves, the tides and gravity, we shall harness, for God, the energies of LOVE - and then, for a second time in the history of the world, man will have discovered fire." Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

Perhaps you will find comfort in these words like I did - especially in this time of too many political debates, too many soldiers dying, the horrible mess with the polygamist's sect in Texas, and the seemingly eternal presidential term of George W.

Enjoy a moment of quiet today.

IF YOU'RE HAPPY AND YOU KNOW IT...SMILE!

2008-02-18T12:40:00.002-05:00

This is a picture of Mr. Happy. I used to love these books when my son was little. There was Mr. Grumpy and Mr. Messy and Mr. Silly, etc. Actually, I think I just used my son as an excuse to buy them! Just reading them and looking at the simple pictures made me smile.

Last night on 60 Minutes there was a segment on the happiest country in the world: Denmark. The weather there is cold, the people are heavy drinkers and smokers, there is not a lot of affluence - and yet, everyone is simply content. They interviewed quite a few of the people, and the one thing that sets them apart from the rest of the world is that they don't appear to worry or struggle with self-doubt like so many of us. Of course, they do have universal health care, they are paid to go to school, they work 37 hours a week - with 6 weeks vacation, they have 6 months paid parental leave for both the mother and the father (with each child) and they have free care for the elderly. There doesn't seem to be the continual "striving" for more or the angst, depression and anxiety that we have here in America. Actually, when interviewed, they admitted that they don't really have any high expectations. They just take things as they come. They don't come out of the womb programmed to expect excellence.

America was rated #23. We did score higher than Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan. Whoopee. As the 60 Minutes report said, the pursuit of happiness in America, is a booming business. The bookstores are filled with volumes that promise the reader he will find happiness and inner contentment if he will only follow "x" number of easy steps. If we don't find it in books - we can certainly find it in shopping! More stuff, newer and improved stuff, etc. - which is constantly in a state of change. Look at the phenomenon of the Iphone for example. People stood in line for days to get that thing - and they already have a newer version out that does more stuff than the old one. So - if shopping doesn't do it...then there are always pharmaceuticals. Pills that will numb the pain of anxiety - pills that will rev you up, or bring you down, or keep you calm. Of course, they come with some nasty side effects - but don't worry, they have pills for the side effects, too.

So does attaining the prize of happiness really boil down to that goofy song from years ago? You know the one: "Don't Worry, Be Happy". Maybe. Perhaps the answer is in being present in the moment. Right now. Not worrying about the past, or the future - but just being like a Dane - and live in the moment and accept it as it comes. I think it helps to have a positive attitude, though. And to be grateful for all we have - because we do have a lot.

Maybe happiness is simply focusing on the good stuff and not obsessing about the bad. Mr. Happy did that in the book. No matter what life brought his way - that little yellow man kept smiling....all the way through the book.

AMERICAN PATRIOTISM

2008-02-03T14:51:00.000-05:00

Somethings that seem up for debate are simply ludicrious to me. I cannot understand, for example, the vigorous opposition to drafting stricter gun laws. Is there any possible good that could come from a private citizen owning a semi-automatic rifle? If we are willing to practically physically violate every human being in an airport with body searches, why do we draw the line at violating someone's privacy by not selling a gun to a mental patient?

Another baffling debate for me, is this reluctance to oppose the use of torture by supporting legislature that would prohibit waterboarding, mock executions, induced hypothermia, and other harsh interrogation techniques. With all the chest-pounding bravado of what it means to be an American patriot, this issue should be a no-brainer. There are those who argue that harsh interrogation techniques can save American lives. At what cost? Who are we??? Since when do we throw out the moral high ground and become a country with the reputation for being ignorant bullies who govern by criminal force? Oh...that's right...sadly the moral lines have been blurred during this current administration.

But, it isn't too late to redeem ourselves, is it? In December, the House of Representatives passed Section 327 of HR 2082, the Intelligence Authorization Act. Section 327 would ban the CIA, its contractors, and all other agencies of the intelligence community from engaging in interrogation techniques that are prohibited by the Army Field Manual on Interrogations. Now, it is up to the Senate. Maybe it is time that we take a stand...that we let our Senators know we want them to support this piece of legislation. Maybe it is time for America to return to being the "good guys"...the country that inspired other countries to be better, to do the right things, to take the moral high ground.

The image of an American patriot has become distorted in the eyes of the world. But, we can fix it. We can. I just have to believe that. It won't happen if we don't speak up. It won't happen if we leave these decisions to the politicians in Washington. It won't happen if we forget that these politicians work for us. We are not as helpless as we sometimes feel. It's just that we have forgotten how to use our voice.

Speak up. Contact your senators. Tell them what you want them to do about Section 327 and other "no brainer" issues. Someone has to be the voice of reason - and maybe it has to be all of us, using our collective voice to say, "Enough is enough."

CUTENESS WORKS!

2008-02-01T17:15:00.000-05:00

I am a sucker for anything cute. That is just the bottom line. I become especially weak-kneed when I see photos of baby animals. That's why I was a goner yesterday at Costco. As always, I migrate to the books for sale. Costco has a dreadful way of displaying them - at least for me. The books are piled in stacks on a table. Since I am in the wheelchair - all I can see are the edges of books - so I can never tell what is in the middle of the table. Sam's Club is better - since they display their books on a rack - so you can see everything. But - I digress....

Marilyn pulled a book from the middle of the table yesterday to show me. It had the catchy title, "Baby Animals" - and she knew I would love it. At first, I tried to quickly leaf through the pages - and smile - and then put it back. But, it kept calling to me. I reasoned with myself that I certainly didn't need it...that I could spend $8.99 on something else more edifying...but then I realized that there was nothing more edifying than a smile - so in the cart it went!

Along with adorable pictures are some great quotes. Here are just a few:

"The trouble with a kitten is that when it grows up, it's always a cat." Ogdan Nash

"Whoever said you can't buy happiness, forgot about puppies!" Gene Hill

"It is impossible to keep a straight face in the presence of one or more kittens." Cynthia Varnado

"You can put wings on a pig, but you don't make it an eagle." BILL CLINTON (okay - that one was a surprise, even to me!)

"When you feel lousy, puppy therapy is indicated!" Sara Peretsky

So - I guess I spent $8.99 on a therapy session. Not a bad price - and I can turn the pages anytime and find a smile hidden in there somewhere!

Oh - I have to leave you with one more quote:

"The majority of husbands remind me of an orangutan trying to play the violin." - Honore De Balzac

Are you smiling?

JUST DO IT!

2008-01-30T14:34:00.000-05:00

"I always wanted to be an author and be published. I figured the way to do that was to write a book." - Steve Martin

I think this quote must be part of his stand-up comedy routine! As anyone who writes will tell you - it isn't that easy. Especially the being published part! Still, there is something to the fact that in order to be a writer - you have to write! Not just talk about writing, or think about writing, or even read about writing...you have to sit in front of the blank page/screen and fill it up with words. Lately - this has proved to be difficult, if not impossible, for me. I decided that I just needed a swift kick in the pants - and so I bought this book. Pretty good, actually - although there are no magic words in it that have alleviated my problem - but lots of commiseration and encouragement. There is the account of John McPhee, who is considered to be one of the pioneers of creative nonfiction, with more than thirty books and one hundred articles to his credit. The story goes that in his early writing days, he tied the sash of his bathrobe to the chair in order to keep himself in the chair writing. Hmmmm....might work. Dennis Palumbo is quoted, "Writing begets writing; not writing begets not writing." See...nothing profound here, but truth put in a memorable way. And, I loved this paragraph:

"Your task as a writer is to write. Imagine if you were a plumber and you went to the house of someone who had hired you to fix his pipes. Would you tell him that you are afraid of failure so you are not really ready to work yet? Or that you have "plumber's block" and don't really know how to proceed? Or would you wait for the house to be completely quiet, with no distractions? Or would you attend plumbers' conference after plumbers' conference and listen to people say what a cutthroat business plumbing has become, much more competitive than when they started as plumbers? Or read book after book about plumbing before you touched a pipe? Or would you sit for hours trying to work out a strategy for approaching the pipes in an optimum way? No, you would think about it a little and then dive right in, working out the problems as you go."

Pretty good stuff. The author is a psychotherapist - so he jumps right in and shines a light on all the goofy excuses we give ourselves to keep from writing. So, I guess I have to stop reading the book now, and write something.

Does this blog entry count????

CARS - AND I DON'T MEAN THAT CUTE PIXAR MOVIE!

2008-01-26T22:03:00.000-05:00

I HATE dealing with cars. I absolutely hate it. First of all - I know nothing about cars - and really, I don't WANT to know anything. I just want to put the key in the ignition and drive. That's it. So - taking my car into the shop is always a big deal. Friday, I took it in for the State inspection. Actually, I was rather proud of myself for getting it done before the last day of the month. The car (van, actually) was driving just great - no problems. I just wanted a quick inspection - pay the 10 bucks or whatever it costs - and get on with things. No such luck.

First there was the bad news. The brakes would pass inspection...but just barely - so they needed to be replaced. I agreed. I had visions of my van careening down a steep road and my brakes failing. Okay. AND the roters (roaters? routers? rotars?) needed replacing. Have no idea what they are, but, I agreed. Okay. There was something else I agreed to, but I can't remember what it was. Then she said something about "seepage" in the racket pinion steering...but I was not agreeing to anything else. SO - it cost me $464 for my state inspection. When we picked up the van and drove it out of the parking lot it started making this horrible vibrating sound whenever I turned the steering wheel. I was not happy. It seemed to happen when I was driving slowly - not on the open road - so we turned around and went back to the mechanic. Some little guy got in the car with me while I drove around the parking lot and he heard the noise and said.....(drum roll here) "Something's wrong." No fooling! They had a mechanic look at it - and then they announced it was the racket pinion steering! (Remember the seepage???) AND - they insisted it was making that noise when I brought it in. I was furious. As a consolation, they added that they didn't think it was life-threatening. Can you believe it??? I decided I would have to take it in to the dealer - and I will NEVER go to that service station again. Never. I drove it today - and it only made the noise once or twice. Not that it makes me feel any better. It is so frustrating when you feel like someone is taking advantage of you. That is how I always feel when dealing with cars. ARRRGHHH!!!

On a lighter note - Marilyn and I had another fun lunch with Marty. As always, we laughed bunches - which is definitely good medicine! Eased away all the tension from the car fiasco...and that is saying a lot!

JUST A LITTLE DUSTING OF SNOW GOES A LONG WAY!

2008-01-20T14:44:00.000-05:00

There is something magical about snow. Yes, I know the uniqueness of every little snowflake may be part of it - but it is more that that. It is a mental/emotional/spiritual thing. Just the mention of snow on the weather report sends crowds to the store to buy bread and milk, and whatever else they can cram into grocery carts. It's like we think we will be snowed in for weeks! That NEVER happens here in Richmond. NEVER!! But that reality does nothing to change the behavior.

As a child, snow meant an unexpected holiday. I grew up in Warrenton, Virginia - and we really had snow! Sometimes we were out of school for two weeks at a time. If I close my eyes, I can still hear the sound of tire chains hitting the pavement in front of our house...I can almost sense that stinging sensation of being in the wet snow and cold for hours...I remember the heavy vanilla taste of "snow cream" - and I even remember being pulled behind a car on my sled. I guess parents weren't so concerned with safety in those days - but, I survived.

Snow is not as captivating to me, now. At least, not in the same way. Afterall - a wheelchair and snow do not mix! Still, I find myself watching the school closings (even though my son is grown, married, and lives in Oregon!). I feel excited - that same childish wonder - at the possiblity of the white stuff - and I just enjoy watching it fall. Everything is beautiful and quiet...and I still feel a little bit like I have that unexpected holiday. Yesterday, I had to postpone plans for a fun lunch with Marty - but I know we will do it next weekend. So, I relaxed into the day and stared out the window. We fed the squirrels - and our usual batch of raccoons...and a couple of cats who wandered on our deck for a treat. Mom and Pop cardinal showed up for a few bites of bird seed. (I always think they know they look wonderful against the white background!) I read a book - sipped sugar-free hot chocolate, and enjoyed the gas fireplace.

Today, the sun is out - the snow is nearly gone - and it is frigid and bright! I am hoping we have a few more days like yesterday before winter is done! After all - the hot, HUMID summer looms just ahead!

ENCOURAGEMENT COMES WHEN LEAST EXPECTED!

2008-01-17T14:06:00.000-05:00

Well -it's official. My second novel - "Where No One Can Hear You Cry" is one of the semi-finalists for Amazon's Breakthrough Novel contest. This is the same manuscript that was one of the top three finalists for the James River Writer's Unpublished Manuscript award last year. It always seems that just when I am about to give up writing, I will get a little nudge from the universe that reminds me that despite my failed attempts to acquire an agent, my writing ability, in reality, does not "suck." Good to know, I guess.

This business of getting an agent is beyond frustrating. Sure, it would be great to win this contest - at least then I would be published by a mainline publishing house (Penguin). Then I would have some credentials to ATTRACT an agent. But that seems backwards, to me. In the current publishing market, agents want a sure thing - they want someone who has already proved themselves in the market...which is next to impossible to do without an agent.

Some authors insist that they cannot stop themselves from writing - that it is a compulsion. For me - writing a novel is hard work. I have finished two - and have two others partially completed. Every word is an effort. Oh sure, there are parts of it that flow - but for the most part, it requires a lot of research and rewriting. So, without the hope that someone somewhere will actually read the damn thing, then I find it hard to keep at it.

But now I have received another jolt of encouragement...and it makes me consider pulling out the unfinished manuscripts and having another go at them.

We'll see. If you are interested in a free download of the first 17 pages of "Where No One Can Hear You Cry" - just go to Amazon, and scroll down the left side of the page...choose Amazon's Breakthrough Novel Contest....once directed to that page, click on "Mystery, Thriller, Suspense" category...go to page 4...look for the title. Gee - that's not too complicated, is it???

Sigh. There are 202 semi-finalists in this category. Sounds like a lot - but not considering the thousands of entries. So, who knows how this will turn out? Keep your fingers crossed for me!

AN AFTERNOON AT THE OPERA

2008-01-15T12:51:00.000-05:00

I went to the opera - and I loved it! I have to admit, that was a big surprise to me. Yes, I had been a music major in college, but that was in the dark ages - and my exposure to opera has been "slim to none." The Metropolitan Opera in New York has begun a campaign to make its performances accessible to everyone by offering live simulcasts (filmed in HD) of some of this season's matinees - to be shown in movie theaters around the world. Marilyn and I attended Verdi's "Macbeth" this past Saturday. She has long been an opera buff - and this was part of her birthday celebration. I just didn't expect it to be a real gift to me, as well!

There are some fabulous bonuses in seeing a performance this way. There are cameras in the orchestra pit, backstage interviews between Acts, and close-ups that make opera glasses obsolete! Subtitles are unobtrusive - mainly because the music requires that sentences be sung over and over - so you are not busy reading when you want to focus on the action taking place on stage. It was truly great fun.

I have read that Broadway theaters are going to be doing this same thing - beginning in Canada. I will be so happy when it takes place here.

We have tickets, now, to "Manon Lescaut" in February - and "La Boheme" in April. So - I am happy to be one of opera's newest fans!

Who knew?

OUTSIDE THE FOXHOLE

2008-01-09T12:26:00.000-05:00

I have long been a fan of Mary Anne Radmacher. Several of her prints are on my walls- and I have enjoyed many of her calendars. I didn't know that she was a writer - as in a BOOK writer. I knew she created incredible word art - but now she has her first book published and it is wonderful. I usually do not recommend a book until I have finished it - but this one is too good to keep to myself. Also - I find that I read a little bit, and put it down - just to give the words time to resonate within me. So - finishing it might take a while!

The book is entitled, "Lean Forward into your Life." In my short reading yesterday, I read about a man who fought in the Vietnam War - and whose commanding officer used to tell his soldiers to "lean forward in their foxholes". He went on to say that life on the battlefront was never about what was going on in the foxhole, but was about dealing with what was "out there". He then made the analogy that we tend to create foxholes in our lives - thinking we will be safe. We buy the cars with the side airbags, we have the 401k's, we buy life insurance and health insurance...we take our vitamins and go to the gym and build fences and have Homeland Security...BUT, somehow, in someway, life has a way of blindsiding us. There is no such thing as safety, as security - all of us have to learn to deal with what is "out there".

So true. Of course, that doesn't mean that we shouldn't take precautions - but that we shouldn't count on them to keep unexpected things from coming into our foxholes. How do we deal with these surprises? Do we allow ourselves to be overwhelmed? Do we use these events as an excuse to give up - to give in - to become a victim? Do we medicate away our fears, our confusions? Or do we dig deep and find the strength to "lean forward" into the wind of tough times, and make something positive from darkness.

See - a lot to think about. Buy this book - I can't think of a better reading experience to begin this new year.