HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT CHALLENGES?

I know, you're thinking not now!  School just started back and I can't even begin to consider adding something new to my schedule.  But perhaps this is exactly when you should do it. 

While we're trying to adjust to routines and schedules and a clock demanding our attention again, it's easy to let our writing time get the worst end of the deal.  Allowing whatever hurried thoughts we scribble on paper napkins, the back of a cereal box or our child's forehead suffice as quality writing or journaling time in our scramble to fix lunches, help with homework and get everyone to their respective appointments.  Before you know it, that great idea is being washed off in a first period classroom, and you're left clueless.  (An extreme example, but is it so far from the truth?)  *smile*

I have a treat for you!  Join me in taking the

  27 Days Self-Discovery
Journaling Challenge

 

by Mari L McCarthy

 

 

We'll let someone else lead us by the hand through an amazing journey of discovery AND make sure we squeeze in time to write each day!  What could be better?  I've heard and seen rave reviews of this program, so I'm willing to give it a go.  And you know they say it just takes 27 days to make a habit, so...whaddya say?  Are you willing to try it with me?

 

While you're at Mari's website, (here:   http://www.createwritenow.com/)  be sure to check out the other FREE items she offers for new friends, like ebook chaps, Journaling Tips, Writing Prompts and Ideas - priceless!    September 3rd, here I come! 

 

Let me know if you plan to participate, so we can encourage each other!   BONUS:  I have a great inspirational file from Creative Writing Now that I'll pass along to anyone who contacts me and says they'll take the challenge.  It's called "Photo Prompts With Secrets," and is filled with delightfully mysterious, thought-provoking writing prompts.

 

Today's selection from my portfolio is one you can share with the kiddies.  I hope you enjoy!  Remember to make it a great day!!  (You're in charge!) 

 

 

Special Me!

 

I can't do what the bumblebee does
But I'm special just the same
I can't flutter or fly or softly buzz
But the Lord God knows my name

I'm not strong like the elephant
That roams in the tall, tall grass
But the Lord God thinks I'm relevant
And draws close each time I pass

I'm not as tall as a giraffe's brown nose
And I'm not so lovely to see
But the Lord God hears and always knows
I'm special because I'm me!    

And hey!  Don't forget to feed the fishies!  They get hungry down there.....   *smile*

 

NO EXCUSES !!  heehee 

After I completed my book, Melinda Heads West, I found that I had actually worn the printing off several of the keys on my poor keyboard.  I couldn't tell my 'o' from my 'i' any more!  You'd think that wouldn't make a difference, but believe me, it did.  When I went to the store to buy a new keyboard, what did I find?  A hot pink, jeweled version -- and it just screamed my name!  

So now when I'm at my keyboard, I'm inspired in a whole different way than ever before.  I highly recommend it.  The cost was reasonable (Hobby Lobby, $30.)  And it makes typing even more of a pleasure ~   They have matching desk items to go along:  pencil holders, calculators, scissors, etc.   --- No, I was strong.  I didn't purchase any of those...yet.

Today, I have been suffering the after-effects of a migraine, so I thought I'd share one of my more tongue-in-cheek pieces with you.  Hope you enjoy.  Please remember to Make it a Great Day -- you're in charge!

The Art of Over-Reaction

It's never too early -- or too late -- to learn to over react.

Take steps to hone your skills or you will soon be left behind in this ever-advancing, impatient population. Here are a few quick tips:

Never get all the facts. Always assume you understand every situation exactly as you see it.

Expect the worst. Never let positive attitudes undermine your over reaction.

Jump to conclusions.

Always speak before you think. Your friends and family expect this.

Never completely trust anyone, including your husband, friends or children. Many wonderful opportunities to over react have been lost in this way.

Marry someone who over reacts. Make sure in every situation one of you over reacts. You may take turns if you like.

Finally, teach your children to over react. Someone must carry on the tradition

***

Hello blog, old friend.

My goodness -- There's been so much going on lately I've been very neglectful. It seems my upcoming books and new facebook pages have been demanding too much of my time.  Nope - those are just excuses.  I'll do better, I promise. 

Let me catch you up. 

My historical romance/western, "Melinda Heads West", is set to be released as an e-book on October 8th, 2012.  A POD (print-on-demand) paperback will follow, but I'm not quite sure of the date (rats!).   The story follows a young woman (Melinda) who travels from Mississippi to Kansas to pick up a family deed.  Trouble with a capital "T" nips at her heels the whole way.  Lucky for her she makes the acquaintance of two 'gentlemen' to help see her through the dangers.  One is tall and blond (Lucas), and one is tall and dark (Boone).  Poor Mindy struggles to decide which man will win her heart...though Boone is married.  Or is he?

I am blessed to say I have a second book coming out in November!  It is a collaboration with 17 other poets and is a collection of Japanese short-form poetry.  (senryu, kyoka and haiga)   It is FABULOUS and I am honored to be in such esteemed company!  I can't wait to share it with the world!

In trying to prepare for the release of the books, my editor told me to find people to write endorsements/blurbs for the book cover.  Little did she know what a firestorm she would create.  I've been writing, emailing and calling everyone I can think of!  Starting with my favorite writers, of course -- why not shoot for the best, right?  All they can say is no and I haven't died from one of those, yet.

Imagine my surprise and shock when I received a return phone call last night from one of my favorite authors, Lavyrle Spencer!  She kindly informed me that although she no longer read manuscripts or participated in the book industry in any way, she would be happy to share a few of her best writing tips with me, a beginning writer - IF I WAS INTERESTED.   I barely managed a garbled yes through my tears.   What followed was probably some of the most gracious few minutes I've experienced, while Mrs. Spencer shared some fab tips she had learned in the trenches.  And yes, they are now CLEARLY printed and posted above my writing area where I can see them at all times. 

This has been an adventure of the best sort.  While it has included some of the things I expected and looked forward to, the odd and unusual rabbit trails that have popped up have made the journey even more thrilling. 

It's been a happy day, so I'll close with a happy poem, if you don't mind. 

What makes me happy? Let me say:
Watching children hard at play

Blowing bubbles in the air
Going to a county fair

Little pups that fall and run
Lying in the summer sun

Stealing kisses from Granddad
Four-leaf-clovers make me glad

Pushing children on a swing
Seeing the first flower of spring
Christmas gifts under a tree
(The biggest one marked for me!)

Canoeing down a river stream
Having the best sort of dream

Getting the last slice of pie
Fireworks glowing in July

Best friends who will see me through
Spending extra time with you

What makes me happy? Let me say:
Another day just like today!

Thanks so much for reading.  I hope YOUR day is inspirational, and that you have steamy, dreamy nights!

robyn

photo credit: geishaboy