Weathering the Storm

So we all know the economy sucks, right? The most frightening part is that even the supposed financial experts are clueless as to what exactly will fix the problems and how long it will take. Just like everyone else, those of us who write books have to adjust our plans in order to weather the storm. I've been trying to set up book signings for my RWA chapter, but stores are pulling back, laying off their community relations people and tapping employees with no experience to coordinate events. In many cases, the stores won't even commit to hold a signing. So now is the time to think outside the box. Offer to speak at a women's group then sign some of your books. Send out a few more books to reviewers and local newspapers and magazines. Participate in charitable events to get your name out there (and to get your feel-good on).
What about you? What are you doing to make it through the lean times?

Letting the Muse Have Her Way

I was all set last week to begin writing this YA paranormal that's been cooking in my mind for the past year. I plotted, I outlined, I drew out character sketches and GMC charts. Then DH threw me a curve ball -- he came home from work and told me about a situation there he's been dealing with. His tale was just too juicy, held too many possibilities for me to not use it in a book. So, I started developing that idea with every intention of setting it aside until after the YA manuscript was finished.
Enter my CP. When we met last week to do some plotting work, I told her about DH's story and how it was gnawing at me.
"Write it," she advised. Plus, she was really excited about the idea and said she loved the premise. Since CP writes RS and this new book would be RS, I decided to take her advice. Now I'm about 10,000 words into it and so far, so good.
So, I shelved the YA book, for now. I just sent CP the first chapter and can't wait to find out what she thinks of it!
What about you? Do you sometimes derail a project when another idea won't leave you alone?

Must See Movies

I've only seen a few Indian movies, but Slumdog Millionaire is one I won't soon forget. This impressive film features everything from adventure to a love story to deeply disturbing violence. The story of two brothers from the slums of Mumbai is both tragic and uplifting. With masterful cinematography, a great story and talented young actors, this movie won't disappoint.
Another worthwhile offering is The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. It's an unusual story that takes all sorts of unexpected twists and turns. As a writer, I was really impressed with the intricacies of the plot and the use of omniscient point of view in parts of it.

It's unusual lately to find two great movies in theaters at the same time, so take advantage - have a movie date - or two.

The Waiting Game

I know I've said this before, but the patience required of a writer is nothing less than cruel and unusual punishment! I currently have a couple submissions under consideration from publishers and the long wait for acceptance (or rejection) is brutal. Sometimes I'm lucky and get a quick response. I love those fast responders! Efficiency is near and dear to my heart and I simply can't stand when my submissions are mishandled, as one recently was by a certain large erotic e-publisher who shall remain nameless. Needless to say, I'll never send them another thing.

Speaking of time, I got the coolest calendar from a friend. It's called Porn for Women and features half-naked men doing housework. Now that's my kind of erotica!

In With The New

2008 has been quite a roller coaster year for most of us. Be it the economy, the price of gasoline or the political merry-go-round of the election, the past twelve months have been anything but uneventful.
On a personal note, I've been fortunate enough to have two books released and signed two more contracts. I've watched my kids continue to mature and become better citizens of the earth. I've gained several friends, grown closer to one I made a couple years ago and sadly, lost a dear friend of more than twenty years. I finished a two-year run as president of my RWA chapter that taught me more than I'd ever have imagined.
2009 will hopefully bring some wonderful things to us all. I hope the state of the economy will improve and eventually recover. I'm keeping my fingers and toes crossed for a dear friend with a secret. I pray her tiny wish comes to fruition. I have lots more requests, way more than I care to share. But I wish you all the best year ever.
What about you? What's on your list?

Happy Holidays vs Merry Christmas

I keep hearing that people are sick and tired of not being able to say "Merry Christmas" to strangers because it is sometimes politically incorrect. They say they refuse to wish people "Happy Holidays" just because it's more inclusive. This year, I'm hearing more and more Christmas wishes. Yes - it's the old backlash against politically correct.
But you know what? It irritates many of us to be told we should enjoy a holiday we don't celebrate. I'm much more comfortable with the generic "Happy Holidays." Sorry if that offends anyone, but why do people assume the customers they wait on or the workers that help them are Christian? Isn't that prejudice?
Now I have no problem with someone you know wishing you the best whatever holiday you celebrate - that's appropriate. But if you don't know me, please don't make assumptions about me.
Okay - I'll step off my soap box and wish everyone the best of holidays. May your cup runneth over, may your load be light and may your journey be safe.

Carving Out Time

We're in the midst of the holiday hoopla and life is busier than ever with gift buying, party going, baking and wrapping. Finding time for writing isn't always easy, but I've cut myself a little slack. You see, last year I used the holidays as an excuse to take a little vacation from writing and that threw me out of my routine - a bad, bad thing. So this year, I'm allowing myself to take one day - occasionally two - in a row off from writing. That way I don't feel guilty for slacking off sometimes and snowballing into a several week period of no work. And so far, it's worked for me. Most of the year I try to write or edit at least a little every day, hopefully, a lot every day!
What about you? Do you stick to your usual word count goals during the holidays or do you take a breather?