What's next in your life?
Well, of course, I've got several manuscripts to finish. The romance I'm about ready to submit is just about ready to hit the road. The mystery still has a few pages to go to get anywhere its transportation ride, but eventually . . .
But, really, here it is the 31st. The next big holiday is Thanksgiving, and it'll be here before we know it. Really.
This holiday use to be lower on the totem pole for popular holidays on my calendar. But lately, well, let's just say I think I've learned to really appreciate this milder time to celebrate family, God, and being alive. Now, fixing the meal, sharing with family and friends is special to me.
So who'll be at your Thanksgiving table? Will you eat out? Travel to someplace else to visit with others? Prepare your own meal with just family? Or hubby? Invite outsiders in?
That last question is a special thing for me. I think sharing my love for God shows when I can find someone that will be lonely or hungry and invite them in to share all God's blessings. I'm not thinking just of myself and family. I'm looking outside my box. I care about others.
Quote for the day:
A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. --King Solomon
One hint for today:
Prepare your house for the holidays, by breaking down those tasks. Take one room a day (or week) and do what is necessary to bring it to where you would like it to be.
Have a wonderful evening.
Blessings.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Friday, October 27, 2006
Romantic nights
What constitutes your idea of a romantic setting?
Let me tell you what I like, then you can jot down a few of your ideas. Put them in practice, pass on your thoughts to hubby or boyfriend, ever hoping he'll expand on them. Just remember, you gotta make him think it's coming from him. "What a great idea, hubby. Let's do it."
One of my favorite romantic things is to go somewhere--just the two of us--for an evening out. I like a nice restaurant, good food, soft music, and low lighting. A candle doesn't hurt or even a vase of flowers--no artificial ones, thank you. I love it when he's in a talkative mood and chatters (yes, it's a feminine word, but I love the word. Men don't chatter, do they?) away at interesting things to both of us.
Then, I love an evening at home in the Autumn or Winter with a fire in the fireplace, a good book, or piddling (there's a good old-fashion word for you)with our own jobs, together in spirit, but working on separate things. Sharing comments together.
I also love to help him with projects (sometimes, that is). Love to be his water boy, fetching (here, Rover!) and holding things for him as he constructs or researching information with him.
Then the walks on our property are something I consider romantic. I like it cause he wants to take a walk with me. We study nature, watch for wild animals, sometimes take a dog with us. We get to talk about everything then, stop and rest--when it's nice--drink some bottled water, and head for home.
So, there. That's some of the things I like to do with hubby. Some people might like to walk through the mall, and yes, I do, but it can be a little depressing with a hubby in tow. They don't always enjoy looking at what you enjoy looking at. So . . . you know the rest of the story there.
Here are some hints for the MW's to make some romantic evenings with your loved one:
* Even with the kids, plan on an evening of fun together. Turn off the lights, light the candles, put on some good music--not too loud, and read together.
* Go somewhere--just you two. It doesn't have to be a whole weekend. Get someone to babysit, or if that's impossible, then take the kids, but go somewhere where the kids can play within watching distance, without danger, and you and hubby can sit together, or walk, and talk.
* Wear your hair in a new style.
* Hint that you'd like flowers. My hubby buys me flowers, but if he can't afford them, he picks wild ones. And I love them, too! Let him know (men are dense, sometimes) you like them and want some and see what happens.
* Make sure you greet him with a smile and a hug. He needs your reassurances that you love him.
* Call him at work just to tell him you miss him.
And enjoy the results!
Weekend Quote:
You are God's created beauty and the focus of His affection and delight. --Janet L. Weaver Smith
Blessings.
Let me tell you what I like, then you can jot down a few of your ideas. Put them in practice, pass on your thoughts to hubby or boyfriend, ever hoping he'll expand on them. Just remember, you gotta make him think it's coming from him. "What a great idea, hubby. Let's do it."
One of my favorite romantic things is to go somewhere--just the two of us--for an evening out. I like a nice restaurant, good food, soft music, and low lighting. A candle doesn't hurt or even a vase of flowers--no artificial ones, thank you. I love it when he's in a talkative mood and chatters (yes, it's a feminine word, but I love the word. Men don't chatter, do they?) away at interesting things to both of us.
Then, I love an evening at home in the Autumn or Winter with a fire in the fireplace, a good book, or piddling (there's a good old-fashion word for you)with our own jobs, together in spirit, but working on separate things. Sharing comments together.
I also love to help him with projects (sometimes, that is). Love to be his water boy, fetching (here, Rover!) and holding things for him as he constructs or researching information with him.
Then the walks on our property are something I consider romantic. I like it cause he wants to take a walk with me. We study nature, watch for wild animals, sometimes take a dog with us. We get to talk about everything then, stop and rest--when it's nice--drink some bottled water, and head for home.
So, there. That's some of the things I like to do with hubby. Some people might like to walk through the mall, and yes, I do, but it can be a little depressing with a hubby in tow. They don't always enjoy looking at what you enjoy looking at. So . . . you know the rest of the story there.
Here are some hints for the MW's to make some romantic evenings with your loved one:
* Even with the kids, plan on an evening of fun together. Turn off the lights, light the candles, put on some good music--not too loud, and read together.
* Go somewhere--just you two. It doesn't have to be a whole weekend. Get someone to babysit, or if that's impossible, then take the kids, but go somewhere where the kids can play within watching distance, without danger, and you and hubby can sit together, or walk, and talk.
* Wear your hair in a new style.
* Hint that you'd like flowers. My hubby buys me flowers, but if he can't afford them, he picks wild ones. And I love them, too! Let him know (men are dense, sometimes) you like them and want some and see what happens.
* Make sure you greet him with a smile and a hug. He needs your reassurances that you love him.
* Call him at work just to tell him you miss him.
And enjoy the results!
Weekend Quote:
You are God's created beauty and the focus of His affection and delight. --Janet L. Weaver Smith
Blessings.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Birthdays--Ho Hum!
Why is it when a person reaches a certain age, birthdays start to lose their appeal? We'd just as soon forget them. Pretend there's no such thing.
Now, I'm not admitting to anything--get that straight right from the start. Torture will never work on me; I'm way too stubborn. I remember when my . . . well, never mind.
Back to the birthday thingie.
Can any of you remember the l-o-n-g-i-n-g (dragged out longing) that, as a child, you felt when you wanted to be old enough to go to school? You thought your birthdays couldn't come fast enough. (Now you hold up both hands and proclaim as loudly as you can, "Whoa! What's the hurry?) Remember when you wanted to be SIXTEEN (the magical number to date--or am I dating myself here?) so that we could be allowed to date as a couple and not a group?
Then shortly after reaching that milestone age, we changed our minds. Nothing would do (we couldn't push time fast enough) until we reached twenty-one. (If only, only I could be twenty-one. With the sappy, innocent look of longing on our face.)
But, of course, that wasn't enough. (It never is to us never-satisfied-humans.) Then we wanted to reach twenty-five, thirty. BUT, wait up here. Somewhere in that time frame, something happened. Attitudes changed. Our outlook changed. Our bodies changed. Something did anyway. What was it?
I think it's Experience. Age. Wisdom. That Knowledge that hey, we're not kids any longer. (Hubby and I are always chanting that to each other. He mentioned this morning about sledding down this monster hill at his brother's home--this winter. I looked at him like he was crazy and admonished him with those words of wisdom, "You're not a kid any longer.")
Suddenly, we get it. Life is a vapor. We'd better do our best to enjoy every single moment of it. And quit the grousing around. I challenged myself several years back to do that. Enjoy life. Sure, that doesn't change the problems, the hard places, the burdens. But so what if we don't get everything we want? How about loving, appreciating what we do have? I'll have to confess, I don't always succeed. Sometimes I grouse. But I'm working on it. How about joining me?
And I just might take a ride on that sled, down that monster hill, with hubby! Brave me!
I noticed when I read yesterday's blog that I called yesterday (Wednesday) Thursday. So . . . ooops! Today is Thursday, yesterday Wednesday. Oh, well.
After a church function long-time friends Bob and Sis took us out for ice cream for my birthday. Great to be with them. At home we listened to the answering machine. One voice came through wishing me a happy birthday--he didn't identify himself, but with a little bit of detecting, I realized it was my brother from OK. We ended up playing phone tag, then connected. It was great to talk with him, probably bored him with all my writerish talk, but I loved him for calling to wish me a H.B.
The second message was from a family of friends who sang H.B. to me (with extra parts). I laughed and listened to it three times. Friends are such wonderful things.
Hints for you today:
These are handy hints for you or hubby to try:
* For fresh stains on your driveway or garage cement floor, use baking soda or cat litter (ground to a finer texture with a brick), place on stain and leave overnight. In the morning simply sweep up.
* For a retractable tape measure: stretch out to its full length, wipe clean, then apply car wax. Make sure to wipe all wax off. This only takes a few minutes and will lengthen the life of it, cause it to roll easier, and cut down on erosion and rust.
* For a quickie measure: Use a dollar bill: length--6 1/4; folded--3 1/8; width--2 5/8; folded--1 1/4
An interesting quote:
If your dream doesn't scare you, it's not big enough. --Cathy Leckner
To all who have October birthdays, blessings.
Now, I'm not admitting to anything--get that straight right from the start. Torture will never work on me; I'm way too stubborn. I remember when my . . . well, never mind.
Back to the birthday thingie.
Can any of you remember the l-o-n-g-i-n-g (dragged out longing) that, as a child, you felt when you wanted to be old enough to go to school? You thought your birthdays couldn't come fast enough. (Now you hold up both hands and proclaim as loudly as you can, "Whoa! What's the hurry?) Remember when you wanted to be SIXTEEN (the magical number to date--or am I dating myself here?) so that we could be allowed to date as a couple and not a group?
Then shortly after reaching that milestone age, we changed our minds. Nothing would do (we couldn't push time fast enough) until we reached twenty-one. (If only, only I could be twenty-one. With the sappy, innocent look of longing on our face.)
But, of course, that wasn't enough. (It never is to us never-satisfied-humans.) Then we wanted to reach twenty-five, thirty. BUT, wait up here. Somewhere in that time frame, something happened. Attitudes changed. Our outlook changed. Our bodies changed. Something did anyway. What was it?
I think it's Experience. Age. Wisdom. That Knowledge that hey, we're not kids any longer. (Hubby and I are always chanting that to each other. He mentioned this morning about sledding down this monster hill at his brother's home--this winter. I looked at him like he was crazy and admonished him with those words of wisdom, "You're not a kid any longer.")
Suddenly, we get it. Life is a vapor. We'd better do our best to enjoy every single moment of it. And quit the grousing around. I challenged myself several years back to do that. Enjoy life. Sure, that doesn't change the problems, the hard places, the burdens. But so what if we don't get everything we want? How about loving, appreciating what we do have? I'll have to confess, I don't always succeed. Sometimes I grouse. But I'm working on it. How about joining me?
And I just might take a ride on that sled, down that monster hill, with hubby! Brave me!
I noticed when I read yesterday's blog that I called yesterday (Wednesday) Thursday. So . . . ooops! Today is Thursday, yesterday Wednesday. Oh, well.
After a church function long-time friends Bob and Sis took us out for ice cream for my birthday. Great to be with them. At home we listened to the answering machine. One voice came through wishing me a happy birthday--he didn't identify himself, but with a little bit of detecting, I realized it was my brother from OK. We ended up playing phone tag, then connected. It was great to talk with him, probably bored him with all my writerish talk, but I loved him for calling to wish me a H.B.
The second message was from a family of friends who sang H.B. to me (with extra parts). I laughed and listened to it three times. Friends are such wonderful things.
Hints for you today:
These are handy hints for you or hubby to try:
* For fresh stains on your driveway or garage cement floor, use baking soda or cat litter (ground to a finer texture with a brick), place on stain and leave overnight. In the morning simply sweep up.
* For a retractable tape measure: stretch out to its full length, wipe clean, then apply car wax. Make sure to wipe all wax off. This only takes a few minutes and will lengthen the life of it, cause it to roll easier, and cut down on erosion and rust.
* For a quickie measure: Use a dollar bill: length--6 1/4; folded--3 1/8; width--2 5/8; folded--1 1/4
An interesting quote:
If your dream doesn't scare you, it's not big enough. --Cathy Leckner
To all who have October birthdays, blessings.
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Public Speaking
Did you know that is the number one fear of all people?
I'm right in there with the majority on this. Those eyes, all those eyes focused on me, waiting to hear my mistakes, my stumbling words--worse, watching when I freeze up and brain goes dead. As in can't think of a thing to say.
Well, they say there's a cure for all that. I guess for the Christian, it's knowing God is wanting you to speak, is placing on your heart the thought you will speak about. When you know you have God's blessing, you can proceed with confidence. Not that your knees will automatically quit knocking, or that you'll not mess up. BUT you will do it and God will bless your words. He won't allow His words--through you--to return void.
Here's some hints on helping us:
* First thing, be fully prepared. Research, study, and read up on your topic. Make notes. Familize yourself with your subject, practice and revise until you are confident you know it inside and out.
* Do some breathing exercises. They really do help. Breathe in slowly, hold it for a few seconds, exhale. Do this several times. You will feel more relaxed and confident.
* You know God wants this, you've prepared and practiced. Now visualize yourself as confident and assured. This is an interesting topic, something others want to hear. They want you to succeed. You can do this.
* Use good posture, sit or stand straight, don't fiddle with your hands, hair, or use other nervous habits. Look people in the eye, look slowly around the room. Modulate your voice to keep things interesting.
* Decide if you want to use cue cards, powerpoint or an overhead projector. Practice with these mediums.
* And remember that the more you speak, the more confidence you'll gain.
Three things to remember: Get into the subject, get the subject into yourself, get the subject into your audience. When you can do this, you've become a public speaker.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is also your tip of the day for all you ministers' wives. I know, because I've had the experience, that sometime or other, you'll be speaking, whether to two or three or a group of thirty. Get ready.
And your quote for this Thursday:
Where the soul is full of peace and joy, outward surroundings and circumstances are of comparatively little account. -- Hannah Whitall Smith
How true.
Blessings.
I'm right in there with the majority on this. Those eyes, all those eyes focused on me, waiting to hear my mistakes, my stumbling words--worse, watching when I freeze up and brain goes dead. As in can't think of a thing to say.
Well, they say there's a cure for all that. I guess for the Christian, it's knowing God is wanting you to speak, is placing on your heart the thought you will speak about. When you know you have God's blessing, you can proceed with confidence. Not that your knees will automatically quit knocking, or that you'll not mess up. BUT you will do it and God will bless your words. He won't allow His words--through you--to return void.
Here's some hints on helping us:
* First thing, be fully prepared. Research, study, and read up on your topic. Make notes. Familize yourself with your subject, practice and revise until you are confident you know it inside and out.
* Do some breathing exercises. They really do help. Breathe in slowly, hold it for a few seconds, exhale. Do this several times. You will feel more relaxed and confident.
* You know God wants this, you've prepared and practiced. Now visualize yourself as confident and assured. This is an interesting topic, something others want to hear. They want you to succeed. You can do this.
* Use good posture, sit or stand straight, don't fiddle with your hands, hair, or use other nervous habits. Look people in the eye, look slowly around the room. Modulate your voice to keep things interesting.
* Decide if you want to use cue cards, powerpoint or an overhead projector. Practice with these mediums.
* And remember that the more you speak, the more confidence you'll gain.
Three things to remember: Get into the subject, get the subject into yourself, get the subject into your audience. When you can do this, you've become a public speaker.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is also your tip of the day for all you ministers' wives. I know, because I've had the experience, that sometime or other, you'll be speaking, whether to two or three or a group of thirty. Get ready.
And your quote for this Thursday:
Where the soul is full of peace and joy, outward surroundings and circumstances are of comparatively little account. -- Hannah Whitall Smith
How true.
Blessings.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Hindrances
What keeps a person from accomplishing what they want to do?
Oh, a variety of things, I'm sure. I can only speak for myself.
The first thing that comes to mind is the state of overextension. That is, too much to do. I'm sure no one else ever finds herself there. But I do, quite often. The reason? I love to be busy. I strive to be a good mother, a good wife, a good christian. But then there's what comes with all that. And all of you who are those things know what I'm talking about. The duties of everyday life. But it's not only duties. There's also the stuff that comes because we love someone. Because we care. That's why I go outside to help hubby with something rather than stay inside and get that chore done that's been hanging over my head for a week. That's why I prepare that special meal because my son likes it, and invite him over, rather than eat cereal for supper, or a grilled cheese sandwich, or worse buy carryout food. Why do I run all over the country with hubby every weekend instead of staying home and getting something done? Because I love and care about him, don't want him to have to travel by himself.
And besides, we have fun together.
Overextension is saying yes too often. Friends, church, family always need someone willing to work, willing to participate, willing to help out. When you have a caring heart, you find that "yes" word coming out of your mouth much too often for comfort.
All of the above takes away my writing time. That's precious time to me. Some of you might like to scrapbook, or sew, or paint. Study music, sing, whatever . . .
One lesson I learned awhile back--and though I don't always practice it, I've been trying to do better--is learn when to say no! A sweet-plastered-on-your-face-smile that let's others know you'd love to help them out, but maybe so-and-so could handle that better. You have need to finish what you've already got on your plate.
Learning it will keep large amounts of stress from our lives. Learning it will give you more time to do what's important in your life. What God wants you to do. Even time to find out what He wants from you.
MW's Tip of the Day:
Here are some for your laundry:
* Stubborn greasy stains? Use a Coke with detergent to help get rid of them.
* Chocolate stains? Soak with club soda before washing.
* Yellowed silk or wool? 1 tablespoon of white vinegar in 1 pint of water. Sponge, rinse, wash.
* Perspiration stain? Use white vinegar or lemon juice. Use a weak solution. Takes out odors, too. May take a few times, but works.
Quote of the day:
Happiness is excitement that has found a settling down place, but there is always a little corner that keeps flapping around. --E.L. Konigsburg
Blessings.
Oh, a variety of things, I'm sure. I can only speak for myself.
The first thing that comes to mind is the state of overextension. That is, too much to do. I'm sure no one else ever finds herself there. But I do, quite often. The reason? I love to be busy. I strive to be a good mother, a good wife, a good christian. But then there's what comes with all that. And all of you who are those things know what I'm talking about. The duties of everyday life. But it's not only duties. There's also the stuff that comes because we love someone. Because we care. That's why I go outside to help hubby with something rather than stay inside and get that chore done that's been hanging over my head for a week. That's why I prepare that special meal because my son likes it, and invite him over, rather than eat cereal for supper, or a grilled cheese sandwich, or worse buy carryout food. Why do I run all over the country with hubby every weekend instead of staying home and getting something done? Because I love and care about him, don't want him to have to travel by himself.
And besides, we have fun together.
Overextension is saying yes too often. Friends, church, family always need someone willing to work, willing to participate, willing to help out. When you have a caring heart, you find that "yes" word coming out of your mouth much too often for comfort.
All of the above takes away my writing time. That's precious time to me. Some of you might like to scrapbook, or sew, or paint. Study music, sing, whatever . . .
One lesson I learned awhile back--and though I don't always practice it, I've been trying to do better--is learn when to say no! A sweet-plastered-on-your-face-smile that let's others know you'd love to help them out, but maybe so-and-so could handle that better. You have need to finish what you've already got on your plate.
Learning it will keep large amounts of stress from our lives. Learning it will give you more time to do what's important in your life. What God wants you to do. Even time to find out what He wants from you.
MW's Tip of the Day:
Here are some for your laundry:
* Stubborn greasy stains? Use a Coke with detergent to help get rid of them.
* Chocolate stains? Soak with club soda before washing.
* Yellowed silk or wool? 1 tablespoon of white vinegar in 1 pint of water. Sponge, rinse, wash.
* Perspiration stain? Use white vinegar or lemon juice. Use a weak solution. Takes out odors, too. May take a few times, but works.
Quote of the day:
Happiness is excitement that has found a settling down place, but there is always a little corner that keeps flapping around. --E.L. Konigsburg
Blessings.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Falling Leaves
Love raking all those gorgeous leaves that sprinkle my lawn. What fun! What glorious exercise it provides! What invigorating air to breathe in.
Yeah, right!
First off, we only have about a million (only a slight exaggeration!) trees surrounding and on our 35 some acres. Lots of maples, poplars, oaks, hickorys. So where do all those gorgeous leaves go? You got that right! On my lawn, porch, pond, car, etc. etc.
They stain my car with leaf imprints, especially if you don't wash the car every day. They don't do much for my decorative efforts on the porch, or add any sense of beauty to my fish pond (What a nuisance!)
So, why would anyone enjoy falling leaves?
Okay, I might as well confess. Autumn is my favorite time of the year (followed closely by spring). The colors alone are enough to give you a feeling of euphoria. Dazzling, vigorous colors preparing one for cold, drab November. Giving you that extra warmth to help you make it through.
They say that this weekend is peak weekend for the colors in lots of states. I looked at the trees and the mist hanging over the valleys this morning on my way to work. A cloudy sky, but colors of pink, blue and violet clashing with the oranges, reds, and yellows of the tree leaves. Gorgeous!
In spite of having to clean out the fish pond every spring (thank you, dear hubby!), and what a job that is, the crunch of leaves in the nippy wind, the scent of crushed leaves, the mischievous pleasure of scattering raked leaves and kicking them into the air, gives my writing nature a boost to begin that new mystery novel.
And the Autumn air. There's absolutely, positively nothing like it in the world. Crisp, mysterious air that hints at winter in the mornings and evenings, then tantalizes you with the promise of summer weather in the day light hours. Ahhhh.
And talk about fun! What is more fun with Autumn activities? Bonfires and hayrides are two of my favorites. And having a friend to laugh with, a companion to snuggle up beside is the height of earthly fun.
What was that poem about Autumn being a gypsy? Read and loved it as a child. Still do, for that matter.
MW's hint for this October Thursday:
October is Sweetest Month: So . . . when you get flowers from your sweetie, here's a few hints to help them last longer:
* To make your cut flowers last longer, add a multivitamin, a aspirin, a teaspoon of sugar, or a pinch of salt and bicarbonate soda.
* Make sure you remove all leaves below the water line.
* For that real, growing plant, water them with the water from your boiled eggs. Excellent minerals!
* And to nourish your plants, place egg shells in the pots.
A good Autumn quote:
Love is the seed of all hope. It is the enticement to trust, to risk, to try, to go on.
Blessings.
Yeah, right!
First off, we only have about a million (only a slight exaggeration!) trees surrounding and on our 35 some acres. Lots of maples, poplars, oaks, hickorys. So where do all those gorgeous leaves go? You got that right! On my lawn, porch, pond, car, etc. etc.
They stain my car with leaf imprints, especially if you don't wash the car every day. They don't do much for my decorative efforts on the porch, or add any sense of beauty to my fish pond (What a nuisance!)
So, why would anyone enjoy falling leaves?
Okay, I might as well confess. Autumn is my favorite time of the year (followed closely by spring). The colors alone are enough to give you a feeling of euphoria. Dazzling, vigorous colors preparing one for cold, drab November. Giving you that extra warmth to help you make it through.
They say that this weekend is peak weekend for the colors in lots of states. I looked at the trees and the mist hanging over the valleys this morning on my way to work. A cloudy sky, but colors of pink, blue and violet clashing with the oranges, reds, and yellows of the tree leaves. Gorgeous!
In spite of having to clean out the fish pond every spring (thank you, dear hubby!), and what a job that is, the crunch of leaves in the nippy wind, the scent of crushed leaves, the mischievous pleasure of scattering raked leaves and kicking them into the air, gives my writing nature a boost to begin that new mystery novel.
And the Autumn air. There's absolutely, positively nothing like it in the world. Crisp, mysterious air that hints at winter in the mornings and evenings, then tantalizes you with the promise of summer weather in the day light hours. Ahhhh.
And talk about fun! What is more fun with Autumn activities? Bonfires and hayrides are two of my favorites. And having a friend to laugh with, a companion to snuggle up beside is the height of earthly fun.
What was that poem about Autumn being a gypsy? Read and loved it as a child. Still do, for that matter.
MW's hint for this October Thursday:
October is Sweetest Month: So . . . when you get flowers from your sweetie, here's a few hints to help them last longer:
* To make your cut flowers last longer, add a multivitamin, a aspirin, a teaspoon of sugar, or a pinch of salt and bicarbonate soda.
* Make sure you remove all leaves below the water line.
* For that real, growing plant, water them with the water from your boiled eggs. Excellent minerals!
* And to nourish your plants, place egg shells in the pots.
A good Autumn quote:
Love is the seed of all hope. It is the enticement to trust, to risk, to try, to go on.
Blessings.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Silence is golden . . . sometimes
Ever been by yourself in the evening in the country, enjoying a good book, soaking in the tub, piddling (what a word!) around with a few chores, and heard a sound? A dog barking? A tree branch creaking? An unexpected crash? Scary. Silence, then, is not soothing and restful. It's loud. The silence of being alone.
Okay, you say. How can silence be loud?
I can't explain it. You have to experience it. I think it's more the knowledge that whatever happens (or doesn't) you're there alone, you have to depend on your smarts, your strength, yourself. You're not stupid enough to go bounding outside to see what made the noise. Instead, you hover near the window, peeking out into the dark world outside, straining to see that ghost, that weird peeking Tom, that stranger in the night. You make sure doors are locked, windows closed, phone is handy. Then you wait. And wait. And wait.
Your imagination is going full tilt ahead. All the scary stories you've ever read, the tales you've heard come bouncing back, crying "Aha. aha. We are real."
Yeah, right. It's about that time, I get tired of that dreadful silence and hightail it to bed. If all the things that go bump in the night want to have a heyday, they can do it without me.
I need my rest.
MW's tip:
A quote for your enjoyment:
We need both: the joy of the sense of sound and the equally great joy of its absence. --Madeleine L'Engle
Blessings.
Okay, you say. How can silence be loud?
I can't explain it. You have to experience it. I think it's more the knowledge that whatever happens (or doesn't) you're there alone, you have to depend on your smarts, your strength, yourself. You're not stupid enough to go bounding outside to see what made the noise. Instead, you hover near the window, peeking out into the dark world outside, straining to see that ghost, that weird peeking Tom, that stranger in the night. You make sure doors are locked, windows closed, phone is handy. Then you wait. And wait. And wait.
Your imagination is going full tilt ahead. All the scary stories you've ever read, the tales you've heard come bouncing back, crying "Aha. aha. We are real."
Yeah, right. It's about that time, I get tired of that dreadful silence and hightail it to bed. If all the things that go bump in the night want to have a heyday, they can do it without me.
I need my rest.
MW's tip:
Window Cleaner
12 to 16 ounces water
1/2 cup white or apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup rubbing alcohol (70%)
1-2 drops blue or green food coloring, if desired
1-2 drops lavender, cinnamon, clove or orange essential oil. Combine the ingredients and put into a labeled spray bottle.
Use newspapers rather than paper towels, because they leave no lint and you are recycling!
1. Spray the newspaper first, then wipe down the window to avoid drips.
2. Wipe vertically one side of the window and horizontally on the other side so you will know which side a streak is on!
This bottle of nice-smelling window cleaner can cost as little as 25 cents and also works well on mirrors or glass shower doors.
A quote for your enjoyment:
We need both: the joy of the sense of sound and the equally great joy of its absence. --Madeleine L'Engle
Blessings.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Kentucky Musings
It's good to be back--to Ohio, I mean.
Not that we didn't have a wonderful time with friends and serving the Lord in Kentucky. We did. The weather was beautiful, most of the time. A couple of days of cold rain, but lots of sunshine and temperate weather, too.
We took our motor home and parked beside friends' home. I was able to get some writing done--not enough--but some. Hubby worked on his studies and read, among other things. It was great being by our lonesome, but close enough to friends to associate when desired.
We met some new friends, fellowshipped and worshipped with old ones. On Saturday, we visited Cumberland Lake Island. A beautiful rocky shore with lots of water. Enjoyed the afternoon walking, taking in the sunshine, and watching the birds and boats, talking with our friends, Cary and Catrina.
Kentucky is a beautiful state. We always enjoy traveling through it when we go to the Smokies. Lots of rocks and hills, grassy fields and fancy horses. Several years ago we stopped at the Kentucky Horse Farm where the famous racehorse retired. We've also visited the Mammoth Caves, big and impressive. And lastly, my dad was born there. I just found out while there this time, that the area he was born in was something like the Hatfield and McCoy thing. Great!
My ancestors are a bunch of hotheads.
Anyhow, hope we get the privilege of going again soon.
MW's Tip of the Day:
Going on a special trip with hubby and the kids? Try this money-saving tip:
Freeze your water (jugs or bottles) to help keep the food cold. When it melts, you can drink it. Cool, huh?
Your pick-'em-up quote:
I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all. --Laura Ingalls Wilder
Blessings.
Not that we didn't have a wonderful time with friends and serving the Lord in Kentucky. We did. The weather was beautiful, most of the time. A couple of days of cold rain, but lots of sunshine and temperate weather, too.
We took our motor home and parked beside friends' home. I was able to get some writing done--not enough--but some. Hubby worked on his studies and read, among other things. It was great being by our lonesome, but close enough to friends to associate when desired.
We met some new friends, fellowshipped and worshipped with old ones. On Saturday, we visited Cumberland Lake Island. A beautiful rocky shore with lots of water. Enjoyed the afternoon walking, taking in the sunshine, and watching the birds and boats, talking with our friends, Cary and Catrina.
Kentucky is a beautiful state. We always enjoy traveling through it when we go to the Smokies. Lots of rocks and hills, grassy fields and fancy horses. Several years ago we stopped at the Kentucky Horse Farm where the famous racehorse retired. We've also visited the Mammoth Caves, big and impressive. And lastly, my dad was born there. I just found out while there this time, that the area he was born in was something like the Hatfield and McCoy thing. Great!
My ancestors are a bunch of hotheads.
Anyhow, hope we get the privilege of going again soon.
MW's Tip of the Day:
Going on a special trip with hubby and the kids? Try this money-saving tip:
Freeze your water (jugs or bottles) to help keep the food cold. When it melts, you can drink it. Cool, huh?
Your pick-'em-up quote:
I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all. --Laura Ingalls Wilder
Blessings.
Friday, October 06, 2006
Day Four of My Musings on Writing Conference
When you attend ACFW you get one editor and one agent appointment. BUT you can hover, approach, and ask them wherever else you can catch them (except breakfast & bathroom) if they would be willing to listen to a short presentation. I did that with one editor. She'd finished up with her appointments on Saturday afternoon. I hurried into the room and asked. She consented. Result: permission to submit.
Another way to approach an editor or agent: At the tables the names of agents and editors & a few others were written on placards. If you were quick enough you could get the table you wanted to sit at and talk with that person. Results for me: Two more requests.
The third way: I went to the appointment scheduler after arriving at Dallas and asked for an extra appointment. She said the only one they had was with an editor that I wanted to talk with. That was fine with me. So, I explained to that editor that I didn't have the book written but would she be interested in such and such an idea? She definitely was. I told her I could have it ready by Spring. That was a perfect time to submit to her publishing house.
So all in all, five editors to submit to. Now, not all of them (maybe none, I'm not that naivete!) will want my manuscripts, but if just one does . . . Oh, glory!
That's in the future, but I can hope, pray and work my knuckles and brain to smidgens. And I will.
One more thing, then I'll move on: The agent I talked to was very friendly. We had a lovely talk, she wants to see my work. Well.
I've got my work cut out for me. But this is a calling. I love writing. Love the research. Love the struggle (sort of) to find the words. Love meeting my own deadline. Love finally, finally finishing that manuscript, only to discover, alas, I've got to add another 20,000 words.
Crazy? Yep, I plead guilty.
A mention: I spoke to a writer's group in West Virginia yesterday. They are such a wonderful group of people. Gave them a contest to help me out on something. If you all are reading this, don't forget about that. Send your answers and suggestions to my email address or give them to Betty to forward to me. Love to all of you!
Best to friends Sharen, Joyce, Trish, Nona.
Upcoming information:
* I'm hoping to have an interview with a new writer soon.
* An interview with a friend who won first in the prestigious ACFW unpublished contest
* An interview with a friend who just recently acquired an agent.
Hopefully, this fall and winter, these will get done. Suggestions, anyone?
MW's tip:
Today's tip will be about keeping a clutter-free home (Yeah, right!)
* Procrastination is the major obstacle to clutter-freeness. Start immediately. And, yes, I know we don't always feel like doing it. Okay, maybe the next hint will help in this area. It does for me when I'm feeling overwhelmed with everything there is to do and don't feel like doing any of it.
* Choose a small task to complete. Set a certain amount of time to complete it, 15 minutes or so. Put some music on, think about why you want to get this done. Then quit when your 15 minutes is up. Setting a specific time for a specific task is great. That out-of-control feeling gets balanced when you can portion all those tasks into smaller bits.
* Get rid of unnecessary or unwanted things. They might be your favorite socks, but if you don't plan on darning all those holes in them, get rid of them. As quickly as you can. Use yard sales, recycling, second-hand clothing stores (don't give them the holey things, please!), and pass good stuff on to friends and family members.
* Use storage space wisely. Twenty percent of items are used frequently, so keep them in an accessible area. Others: use bins, boxes, shelves, closets. Everything should have a place.
Quote:
Kind words are the music of the world.
I'll be in Kentucky next week, but I'll be back the week after. Thank you, faithful readers, one of these days I'll have time to figure out how to get those comments to work.
Blessings on a great week!
Another way to approach an editor or agent: At the tables the names of agents and editors & a few others were written on placards. If you were quick enough you could get the table you wanted to sit at and talk with that person. Results for me: Two more requests.
The third way: I went to the appointment scheduler after arriving at Dallas and asked for an extra appointment. She said the only one they had was with an editor that I wanted to talk with. That was fine with me. So, I explained to that editor that I didn't have the book written but would she be interested in such and such an idea? She definitely was. I told her I could have it ready by Spring. That was a perfect time to submit to her publishing house.
So all in all, five editors to submit to. Now, not all of them (maybe none, I'm not that naivete!) will want my manuscripts, but if just one does . . . Oh, glory!
That's in the future, but I can hope, pray and work my knuckles and brain to smidgens. And I will.
One more thing, then I'll move on: The agent I talked to was very friendly. We had a lovely talk, she wants to see my work. Well.
I've got my work cut out for me. But this is a calling. I love writing. Love the research. Love the struggle (sort of) to find the words. Love meeting my own deadline. Love finally, finally finishing that manuscript, only to discover, alas, I've got to add another 20,000 words.
Crazy? Yep, I plead guilty.
A mention: I spoke to a writer's group in West Virginia yesterday. They are such a wonderful group of people. Gave them a contest to help me out on something. If you all are reading this, don't forget about that. Send your answers and suggestions to my email address or give them to Betty to forward to me. Love to all of you!
Best to friends Sharen, Joyce, Trish, Nona.
Upcoming information:
* I'm hoping to have an interview with a new writer soon.
* An interview with a friend who won first in the prestigious ACFW unpublished contest
* An interview with a friend who just recently acquired an agent.
Hopefully, this fall and winter, these will get done. Suggestions, anyone?
MW's tip:
Today's tip will be about keeping a clutter-free home (Yeah, right!)
* Procrastination is the major obstacle to clutter-freeness. Start immediately. And, yes, I know we don't always feel like doing it. Okay, maybe the next hint will help in this area. It does for me when I'm feeling overwhelmed with everything there is to do and don't feel like doing any of it.
* Choose a small task to complete. Set a certain amount of time to complete it, 15 minutes or so. Put some music on, think about why you want to get this done. Then quit when your 15 minutes is up. Setting a specific time for a specific task is great. That out-of-control feeling gets balanced when you can portion all those tasks into smaller bits.
* Get rid of unnecessary or unwanted things. They might be your favorite socks, but if you don't plan on darning all those holes in them, get rid of them. As quickly as you can. Use yard sales, recycling, second-hand clothing stores (don't give them the holey things, please!), and pass good stuff on to friends and family members.
* Use storage space wisely. Twenty percent of items are used frequently, so keep them in an accessible area. Others: use bins, boxes, shelves, closets. Everything should have a place.
Quote:
Kind words are the music of the world.
I'll be in Kentucky next week, but I'll be back the week after. Thank you, faithful readers, one of these days I'll have time to figure out how to get those comments to work.
Blessings on a great week!
Day Four of My Musings on Writing Conference
When you attend ACFW you get one editor and one agent appointment. BUT you can hover, approach, and ask them wherever else you can catch them (except breakfast & bathroom) if they would be willing to listen to a short presentation. I did that with one editor. She'd finished up with her appointments on Saturday afternoon. I hurried into the room and asked. She consented. Result: permission to submit.
Another way to approach an editor or agent: At the tables the names of agents and editors & a few others were written on placards. If you were quick enough you could get the table you wanted to sit at and talk with that person. Results for me: Two more requests.
The third way: I went to the appointment scheduler after arriving at Dallas and asked for an extra appointment. She said the only one they had was with an editor that I wanted to talk with. That was fine with me. So, I explained to that editor that I didn't have the book written but would she be interested in such and such an idea? She definitely was. I told her I could have it ready by Spring. That was a perfect time to submit to her publishing house.
So all in all, five editors to submit to. Now, not all of them (maybe none, I'm not that naivete!) will want my manuscripts, but if just one does . . . Oh, glory!
That's in the future, but I can hope, pray and work my knuckles and brain to smidgens. And I will.
One more thing, then I'll move on: The agent I talked to was very friendly. We had a lovely talk, she wants to see my work. Well.
I've got my work cut out for me. But this is a calling. I love writing. Love the research. Love the struggle (sort of) to find the words. Love meeting my own deadline. Love finally, finally finishing that manuscript, only to discover, alas, I've got to add another 20,000 words.
Crazy? Yep, I plead guilty.
A mention: I spoke to a writer's group in West Virginia yesterday. They are such a wonderful group of people. Gave them a contest to help me out on something. If you all are reading this, don't forget about that. Send your answers and suggestions to my email address or give them to Betty to forward to me. Love to all of you!
Best to friends Sharen, Joyce, Trish, Nona.
Upcoming information:
* I'm hoping to have an interview with a new writer soon.
* An interview with a friend who won first in the prestigious ACFW unpublished contest
* An interview with a friend who just recently acquired an agent.
Hopefully, this fall and winter, these will get done. Suggestions, anyone?
MW's tip:
Today's tip will be about keeping a clutter-free home (Yeah, right!)
* Procrastination is the major obstacle to clutter-freeness. Start immediately. And, yes, I know we don't always feel like doing it. Okay, maybe the next hint will help in this area. It does for me when I'm feeling overwhelmed with everything there is to do and don't feel like doing any of it.
* Choose a small task to complete. Set a certain amount of time to complete it, 15 minutes or so. Put some music on, think about why you want to get this done. Then quit when your 15 minutes is up. Setting a specific time for a specific task is great. That out-of-control feeling gets balanced when you can portion all those tasks into smaller bits.
* Get rid of unnecessary or unwanted things. They might be your favorite socks, but if you don't plan on darning all those holes in them, get rid of them. As quickly as you can. Use yard sales, recycling, second-hand clothing stores (don't give them the holey things, please!), and pass good stuff on to friends and family members.
* Use storage space wisely. Twenty percent of items are used frequently, so keep them in an accessible area. Others: use bins, boxes, shelves, closets. Everything should have a place.
Quote:
Kind words are the music of the world.
I'll be in Kentucky next week, but I'll be back the week after. Thank you, faithful readers, one of these days I'll have time to figure out how to get those comments to work.
Blessings on a great week!
Another way to approach an editor or agent: At the tables the names of agents and editors & a few others were written on placards. If you were quick enough you could get the table you wanted to sit at and talk with that person. Results for me: Two more requests.
The third way: I went to the appointment scheduler after arriving at Dallas and asked for an extra appointment. She said the only one they had was with an editor that I wanted to talk with. That was fine with me. So, I explained to that editor that I didn't have the book written but would she be interested in such and such an idea? She definitely was. I told her I could have it ready by Spring. That was a perfect time to submit to her publishing house.
So all in all, five editors to submit to. Now, not all of them (maybe none, I'm not that naivete!) will want my manuscripts, but if just one does . . . Oh, glory!
That's in the future, but I can hope, pray and work my knuckles and brain to smidgens. And I will.
One more thing, then I'll move on: The agent I talked to was very friendly. We had a lovely talk, she wants to see my work. Well.
I've got my work cut out for me. But this is a calling. I love writing. Love the research. Love the struggle (sort of) to find the words. Love meeting my own deadline. Love finally, finally finishing that manuscript, only to discover, alas, I've got to add another 20,000 words.
Crazy? Yep, I plead guilty.
A mention: I spoke to a writer's group in West Virginia yesterday. They are such a wonderful group of people. Gave them a contest to help me out on something. If you all are reading this, don't forget about that. Send your answers and suggestions to my email address or give them to Betty to forward to me. Love to all of you!
Best to friends Sharen, Joyce, Trish, Nona.
Upcoming information:
* I'm hoping to have an interview with a new writer soon.
* An interview with a friend who won first in the prestigious ACFW unpublished contest
* An interview with a friend who just recently acquired an agent.
Hopefully, this fall and winter, these will get done. Suggestions, anyone?
MW's tip:
Today's tip will be about keeping a clutter-free home (Yeah, right!)
* Procrastination is the major obstacle to clutter-freeness. Start immediately. And, yes, I know we don't always feel like doing it. Okay, maybe the next hint will help in this area. It does for me when I'm feeling overwhelmed with everything there is to do and don't feel like doing any of it.
* Choose a small task to complete. Set a certain amount of time to complete it, 15 minutes or so. Put some music on, think about why you want to get this done. Then quit when your 15 minutes is up. Setting a specific time for a specific task is great. That out-of-control feeling gets balanced when you can portion all those tasks into smaller bits.
* Get rid of unnecessary or unwanted things. They might be your favorite socks, but if you don't plan on darning all those holes in them, get rid of them. As quickly as you can. Use yard sales, recycling, second-hand clothing stores (don't give them the holey things, please!), and pass good stuff on to friends and family members.
* Use storage space wisely. Twenty percent of items are used frequently, so keep them in an accessible area. Others: use bins, boxes, shelves, closets. Everything should have a place.
Quote:
Kind words are the music of the world.
I'll be in Kentucky next week, but I'll be back the week after. Thank you, faithful readers, one of these days I'll have time to figure out how to get those comments to work.
Blessings on a great week!
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Day Three of My Musings on Writing Conference
Hi.
The first thing (besides breakfast, devotions, etc. etc.) that happened on Friday morning was my appointment with an editor--Joanne at Heartsong Presents. I was nervous, of course, but quickly got into the presentation. I love talking about writing (have I told you lately?) She made it easy, listening, asking question, giving suggestions. The end result: she requested a proposal. DOUBLE YEAH!
What is a proposal? It's approximately three chapters of your manuscript, a detailed summary of your book (usually chapter by chapter, but not always, depends on what the publishing house wants), your marketing plans, a bit about your life, experience, plans for other books, and anything else you can think of (that's appropriate) to be impressive.
But first and foremost is good (should I say excellent?) writing. If your writing stinks, well, you're sunk. That's not to say you can't improve. Practice, study, and reading all helps. Critique groups and conferences help. There you can meet other writers, editors and agents. There you can learn, mingle and maybe bribe (grin) someone to mentor you. Gain encouragement. OH, there's tons of stuff to be gained by going to a writing conference.
It was well worth my investment and I'll do it again. Lord willing, of course.
Secondly, lunch and dinner was set up in a huge dining area. Tables were big; seating ten people. Placards were placed with the names of agents and editors, and big time writers. If you were quick enough and smart enough, you could grab a table with the person you wanted to sit with, hopefully get a chance to talk about your book.
I did that twice. Results (can you see the grin I've got?) two more requests for proposals. OH, wonderful!
Out of time. More tomorrow.
TIP for MW's today:
* Burnt food? boil a cup of cola for a minute or two, removes the burned food. Tuff stuff? Repeat process.
* To loosen cooked cheese from pans and dishes? Soak in cold water, not hot. The hot just melts the cheese again.
* Never spray furniture polish directly onto furniture. This can leave streaks. Spray onto your cloth, then polish.
Quote of the day:
Take a risk. Open up your heart. Find a real friend (never stop searching till you do.) and grow together. Be a real friend and see what happens. -- Sheila Walsh.
Blessings.
The first thing (besides breakfast, devotions, etc. etc.) that happened on Friday morning was my appointment with an editor--Joanne at Heartsong Presents. I was nervous, of course, but quickly got into the presentation. I love talking about writing (have I told you lately?) She made it easy, listening, asking question, giving suggestions. The end result: she requested a proposal. DOUBLE YEAH!
What is a proposal? It's approximately three chapters of your manuscript, a detailed summary of your book (usually chapter by chapter, but not always, depends on what the publishing house wants), your marketing plans, a bit about your life, experience, plans for other books, and anything else you can think of (that's appropriate) to be impressive.
But first and foremost is good (should I say excellent?) writing. If your writing stinks, well, you're sunk. That's not to say you can't improve. Practice, study, and reading all helps. Critique groups and conferences help. There you can meet other writers, editors and agents. There you can learn, mingle and maybe bribe (grin) someone to mentor you. Gain encouragement. OH, there's tons of stuff to be gained by going to a writing conference.
It was well worth my investment and I'll do it again. Lord willing, of course.
Secondly, lunch and dinner was set up in a huge dining area. Tables were big; seating ten people. Placards were placed with the names of agents and editors, and big time writers. If you were quick enough and smart enough, you could grab a table with the person you wanted to sit with, hopefully get a chance to talk about your book.
I did that twice. Results (can you see the grin I've got?) two more requests for proposals. OH, wonderful!
Out of time. More tomorrow.
TIP for MW's today:
* Burnt food? boil a cup of cola for a minute or two, removes the burned food. Tuff stuff? Repeat process.
* To loosen cooked cheese from pans and dishes? Soak in cold water, not hot. The hot just melts the cheese again.
* Never spray furniture polish directly onto furniture. This can leave streaks. Spray onto your cloth, then polish.
Quote of the day:
Take a risk. Open up your heart. Find a real friend (never stop searching till you do.) and grow together. Be a real friend and see what happens. -- Sheila Walsh.
Blessings.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Day Two of My Musings on Conference
When we arrived in Dallas, we promptly got lost (sort of). It really wasn't a big deal, cause after one phone call, we found the hotel without any more problem.
At first I was overwhelmed; wanted to hide out in my room. But I knew I hadn't spent all that money, energy, and time on this thing to do that. So I hightailed it downstairs and strolled around. Met two of my critique partners right away. We had our reception that evening, for which I'd volunteered to greet and got into that very well.
The food was exellent ( turkey, beef, veggies, fruit, cheeses, and lots of other stuff) and the speaker entertaining--Liz Curtis Higgs. She is lively and not afraid to poke fun at herself. Later on that evening I attended my first late night chat which was informing and fun.
I also volunteered (I know the best way to start feeling right at home is to volunteer; you meet people and get out, no time for hiding) for breakfast greeting for Friday and Saturday mornings.
There must have been close to five hundred people there. Strange, all these weird thoughts I had that important people have wings (or horns: Big Grin) or funny looking faces, or something. Most everyone was kind and helpful. Informative and friendly.
Anyhow, that gives you a little taste of what the atmosphere was like. I'll tell a little about my talks with the editors tomorrow.
Quote: Great things are accomplished by talented people who believe they will accomplish them.
More on children's rooms for you MW's:
* Implement several activity areas in your child's room: reading area, art area, game area, doll or toy area, etc. This helps your child be able to place his play items in the appropriate space.
* Use stickers. Place sticker on shelf (box, drawer, cabinet) and the same stickers on the toys that belong in that place. Especially good for pre-readers.
* Store small toy items ( such as blocks, game pieces, marbles, etc.) in zipper lock bags. They're clear and easy for children to see.
* Use bunk beds. Today's furniture for children are safe and colorful. Allows you more space.
* Get kids in the habit of cleaning their room on a regular basis. They can put away toys (use the above tips) and laundry (hey, they might not stack them as nicely as you would, but don't worry about that; this is their room, they're in training. Let them do it!). Give them a feather duster (fun, fun, fun!) to eliminate dust on their shelves and toys.
Responsibility for cleaning their rooms can increase their sense of maturity and self-confidence.
Have a good evening.
Blessings.
At first I was overwhelmed; wanted to hide out in my room. But I knew I hadn't spent all that money, energy, and time on this thing to do that. So I hightailed it downstairs and strolled around. Met two of my critique partners right away. We had our reception that evening, for which I'd volunteered to greet and got into that very well.
The food was exellent ( turkey, beef, veggies, fruit, cheeses, and lots of other stuff) and the speaker entertaining--Liz Curtis Higgs. She is lively and not afraid to poke fun at herself. Later on that evening I attended my first late night chat which was informing and fun.
I also volunteered (I know the best way to start feeling right at home is to volunteer; you meet people and get out, no time for hiding) for breakfast greeting for Friday and Saturday mornings.
There must have been close to five hundred people there. Strange, all these weird thoughts I had that important people have wings (or horns: Big Grin) or funny looking faces, or something. Most everyone was kind and helpful. Informative and friendly.
Anyhow, that gives you a little taste of what the atmosphere was like. I'll tell a little about my talks with the editors tomorrow.
Quote: Great things are accomplished by talented people who believe they will accomplish them.
More on children's rooms for you MW's:
* Implement several activity areas in your child's room: reading area, art area, game area, doll or toy area, etc. This helps your child be able to place his play items in the appropriate space.
* Use stickers. Place sticker on shelf (box, drawer, cabinet) and the same stickers on the toys that belong in that place. Especially good for pre-readers.
* Store small toy items ( such as blocks, game pieces, marbles, etc.) in zipper lock bags. They're clear and easy for children to see.
* Use bunk beds. Today's furniture for children are safe and colorful. Allows you more space.
* Get kids in the habit of cleaning their room on a regular basis. They can put away toys (use the above tips) and laundry (hey, they might not stack them as nicely as you would, but don't worry about that; this is their room, they're in training. Let them do it!). Give them a feather duster (fun, fun, fun!) to eliminate dust on their shelves and toys.
Responsibility for cleaning their rooms can increase their sense of maturity and self-confidence.
Have a good evening.
Blessings.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
American Christian Fiction Writers Conference
Sunnybank Meanderings: Writing and Writers
Wow. We got home about 2:30 a.m. this morning. It was a lo-o-o-ng trip home. Hubby was sick almost the whole way, but as is typical for him, refused to let me drive. He has this thing about driving. He readily admits I'm a good driver (don't I have him fooled? --Big Grin-- ) but he likes to do most of our driving when we travel by car.
So I slept, listened to the radio, talked, gazed at the scenery, yelled at him to pull over so I could take pictures of scenery, and plotted more episodes -- and books.
On to ACFW conference . . .
It was awesome. I feel so humble and thrilled at the encouragement I received. Met with four different editors and all requested proposals. Talked to one agent and she wants to see my work. I learned a lot, enjoyed meetings others, praised with those who met with success, tried to encourage those who were down.
Found out something. Was able to put a myth to rest: Editors and agents are people. Yeah, that's right. They really are. Most of the ones I met were super nice. And patient with all of us pushy wannabes. Whether never published or moving-on-writers.
It was a special time in my life. I've climbed another rung in the publishing ladder, grown another inch. I thanked hubby over and over that he was supportive and caring enough to want me to go, willing to go with me, and encourage and pray for my endeavors.
Thank you, ACFW, for this wonderful opportunity.
I'm grateful.
"I shut the door on yesterday and threw away the key. Tomorrow has no fears for me since I have today."
This came from an old cooking book with sayings and hints that's proported to be 100 years old. Enjoy!
Hint for MW's:
For mothers with children:
Use storage room in their rooms wisely. Sturdy cardboard boxes (decorate yourself or buy) and plastic bins work well to store toys. Keep them under their beds or build shelves (not too high) and encourage your children to store their toys there. Nets strung across a corner of the room can be filled with stuffed animals, dolls or lighter toys.
More tips for mothers with children tomorrow.
I'll share some thoughts about my trip the rest of the week.
Blessings.
Wow. We got home about 2:30 a.m. this morning. It was a lo-o-o-ng trip home. Hubby was sick almost the whole way, but as is typical for him, refused to let me drive. He has this thing about driving. He readily admits I'm a good driver (don't I have him fooled? --Big Grin-- ) but he likes to do most of our driving when we travel by car.
So I slept, listened to the radio, talked, gazed at the scenery, yelled at him to pull over so I could take pictures of scenery, and plotted more episodes -- and books.
On to ACFW conference . . .
It was awesome. I feel so humble and thrilled at the encouragement I received. Met with four different editors and all requested proposals. Talked to one agent and she wants to see my work. I learned a lot, enjoyed meetings others, praised with those who met with success, tried to encourage those who were down.
Found out something. Was able to put a myth to rest: Editors and agents are people. Yeah, that's right. They really are. Most of the ones I met were super nice. And patient with all of us pushy wannabes. Whether never published or moving-on-writers.
It was a special time in my life. I've climbed another rung in the publishing ladder, grown another inch. I thanked hubby over and over that he was supportive and caring enough to want me to go, willing to go with me, and encourage and pray for my endeavors.
Thank you, ACFW, for this wonderful opportunity.
I'm grateful.
"I shut the door on yesterday and threw away the key. Tomorrow has no fears for me since I have today."
This came from an old cooking book with sayings and hints that's proported to be 100 years old. Enjoy!
Hint for MW's:
For mothers with children:
Use storage room in their rooms wisely. Sturdy cardboard boxes (decorate yourself or buy) and plastic bins work well to store toys. Keep them under their beds or build shelves (not too high) and encourage your children to store their toys there. Nets strung across a corner of the room can be filled with stuffed animals, dolls or lighter toys.
More tips for mothers with children tomorrow.
I'll share some thoughts about my trip the rest of the week.
Blessings.
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