October 26, 2010

Little Witch

You’d think someone who awaited Nancy Drew sequels with a fervor matched by Harry Potter fans would have kept them all, but only one childhood book survived my many moves and purges: LITTLE WITCH, the story of Minx, a witch's daughter who learns that love can change your life.

Like Minx, I wondered if I’d been born into the wrong family, although my parents insisted that distinction belonged to a sibling. I didn’t believe there was a beautiful fairy waiting to claim me (sorry for the spoiler), but Minx’s courage and happy ending gave me hope there were better days ahead.

I doubt my torn and taped Scholastic paperback would sell for $59, a price I found online. Then again, it’s one of those keepsakes whose value can’t be measured in dollars and cents.

What childhood books hold special memories for you?

October 19, 2010

What Fools These Writers Be!

Haven't consulted the Tarot in months, so when The Fool appeared you can imagine my dismay, especially since I pulled the card the day after posting my first 250 words online.

As it turns out, the meaning of this card is totally in sync with writing.

How? 

Writers undertake life-changing journeys.

We may be unaware of all the hardships in store, but we accept whatever comes our way (sometimes with grace, sometimes not).

We'll take risks, even if it means venturing into the unknown.

We're on a path to mastery.

If that makes me a fool, then I'll gladly answer to the name.

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Mega thanks to everyone who stopped by and commented on my blogfest entry.  I so appreciate your feedback!

I know this post is brief, but the Giants are playing in just a couple of hours and I need to work on my WIP before the couch claims me.

October 12, 2010

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes

You know how it is. Writing transports you to another place, you lose track of what's going on in the real world. Yesterday, there was a fire at the local airport, about a mile away. I'd opened all the windows early in the day, then retreated to my den to write, loaded my CD player, and turned on my essential oil diffuser (rosemary oil sharpens the mind, they say).

When I emerged from the imaginary world of my MG fantasy, the sun was hidden behind a cloud of foul smoke and my house reeked. I closed windows, turned on ceiling and exhaust fans, rubbed mentholatum under my nose, but the damage was done. Had to stay up late to let in fresh air and got up early to rinse off my poor, wind-whipped, dusty plants. Fortunately, there's a fair breeze today so the odor should be completely gone by nightfall.

Lesson learned? Butt-in-chair is well and good, but life needs your attention, too.

In other news: I usually post on Tuesdays only, but this week I'm participating in my first blogfest, hosted by Elle Strauss (scroll down right side for info). I'll be putting up my first 250 words on Friday. Hope you have a chance to stop by and share your thoughts.