Serious Wednesday: A New Day, A New Series: Raisins for Racy

 What fun it is to sleigh tonight...No! I meant, write a book...   

Seriously, I just began a new series in Children's Books, called The Character Traits. The first book is titled:  Raisins for Racy:  Unselfishness. 

These fun books are for younger children who, with their parents guiding them, will learn about Character Traits that will encourage them to strive to make the traits a part of themselves. 

In Raisins for Racy (the rabbit), he so loves raisins that he refuses to share with anyone and even goes so far as to steal them. He thinks its funny to see everyone so upset until one day Racy comes face to face with his selfishness...and what do you think happens?

Find the book here to learn how little Racy learns that sharing is the best option.

https://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1624460388&sr=1-1

I think children and even parents will enjoy this cute book! 

Happy Reading! 

Sunday Morning Peace: I Am Determined!

I Can Do All Things Through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13 

I know so many writers who are a hundred times better than me

and have longer, greater ideas than mine, but they gave up;

they stopped.

The biggest talent you can have is determination.

Do you use the writing process as your ongoing excuse to keep 

exploring the world, 

meeting people,

and learning things?

If you can do that, then the writing itself

will be its own payoff and reward.

--Chuck Palakniuk

Blessings!

Lack of Proofreading Fiascos

Hilarious Titles: Doesn't Anyone Proofread anymore?

Man Kills Self Before Shooting Wife and Daughter 
Wow; he's miraculous!

Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Expert Says 

No,do you really think so?

Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers 
Now that's taking things a bit far! 

Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over 

What a guy! 

Miners Refuse to Work after Death 
No-good-for-nothing' lazy so-and-so's! 

Juvenile Court to Try Shooting Defendant 

See if that works any better than a fair trial! 

War Dims Hope for Peace 
I can see where it might have that effect! 

If Strike Isn't Settled Quickly, It May Last Awhile 

Ya think?! 

Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures 
Who would have thought! 

Couple Slain; Police Suspect Homicide 

They may be on to something! 

Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges 
You mean there's something stronger than duct tape? 

Man Struck By Lightning: Faces Battery Charge 

He probably IS the battery charge! 

New Study of Obesity Looks for Larger Test Group 
Weren't they fat enough?! 

Astronaut Takes Blame for Gas in Spacecraft 

That's what he gets for eating those beans! 

Kids Make Nutritious Snacks 
Do they taste like chicken? 

Local High School; Dropouts Cut in Half 

Chainsaw Massacre all over again! 

Hospitals are Sued by 7 Foot Doctors 
Boy, are they tall!


Blessings!

Tongue in the Cheek Tips

Gotta say, the list is perfect for wannebe writers. The last on the list is a lot of fun put together by fellow writer Sam after a pompous wannbe writer decided to pester an excellent agent for representation. Some of us learned a lot from her/his pompous knowledge. Smile. Enjoy and take what you can use!

Mr. Greatest-writer-since-the-Gutenber-Press thought he(she) had a thing or two to teach (agent). Actually, I learned some things from him, though not in the way he intended.

1. Have a teachable attitude.
2. Be humble
3. The rules apply to you. Really.
4. Don't attempt to intimidate somone just to get your way.
5. Use appropriate self-promotion.
6. Don't take yourself too seriously.
7. And when writing, do not use big words and long sentences just to impress the reader because most of the time, the usage of extraeous, redundant, and multisyllabic verbiage; long protracted sentences; undefined acronyms; and passive voice often confuses (that is, befuddles [confounds]) the reader, thereby inhibiting communication; furthermore, the greater the length and complexity of the sentence, the easier it is to make an error in punctuation or grammar, it is therefore recommended to writer shorter sentences to facilitate improved communication as this will prevent the reader from getting the impression that you're a pompous know-it-all.

Ah, so right, Sam. Thank you for putting it so succinctly!


Quote:
We are all pencils in the hand of a writing God who is sending love letters to the world. --Mother Teresa
Blessings!

WICOE
(Women In Charge Of Everything)

is proud to announce the opening of its

EVENING CLASSES FOR MEN!
OPEN TO MEN ONLY

Note: due to the complexity and level of difficulty,

each course will accept a maximum of eight participants.

The course covers two days, and topics covered in this course include:

DAY ONE:

• HOW TO FILL ICE CUBE TRAYS

Step by step guide with slide presentation

• TOILET ROLLS- DO THEY GROW ON THE HOLDERS?

Roundtable discussion

• DIFFERENCES BETWEEN LAUNDRY BASKET & FLOOR

Practicing with hamper (Pictures and graphics)

• DISHES & SILVERWARE; DO THEY LEVITATE/FLY TO KITCHEN SINK OR DISHWASHER BY THEMSELVES?

Debate among a panel of experts.

• LEARNING HOW TO FIND THINGS

Starting with looking in the right place instead of turning the house upside down while screaming - Open forum

DAY TWO:

DO THEY BELONG

IN THE FRIDGE OR THE BIN?

Group discussion and role play

HEALTH WATCH; BRINGING HER FLOWERS IS NOT HARMFUL TO YOUR HEALTH

PowerPoint presentation

REAL MEN ASK FOR DIRECTIONS WHEN LOST

Real life testimonial from the one man who did

IS IT GENETICALLY IMPOSSIBLE TO SIT QUIETLY AS SHE PARALLEL PARKS?

Driving simulation

LIVING WITH ADULTS; BASIC DIFFERENCES BETWEEN YOUR MOTHER AND YOUR PARTNER

Online class and role playing

HOW TO BE THE IDEAL SHOPPING COMPANION

Relaxation exercises, meditation and breathing techniques

REMEMBERING IMPORTANT DATES & CALLING WHEN YOU'RE GOING TO BE LATE

Bring your calendar or PDA to class

GETTING OVER IT; LEARNING HOW TO LIVE WITH BEING WRONG ALL THE TIME

Individual counselors available

This is a "just for fun" blog. Sorry, guys, couldn't resist it. It's not really my thought or sentiments.


Quote:
Never let yesterday use of today. --Richard H. Nelson


Blessings

Another Writing Experience



Myself and two writing buddies traveled about an hour and half away to join other writing friends for a weekday noon meal at the Der Dutchman Restaurant. Several were there for the first time (seven), one for the second time, and the rest of us have joined together in writing events more than that.



It was a great time of fellowship with good food and a pleasant atmosphere. We called it a meet and greet meeting. After introductions, we asked the blessing, and enjoyed a delicious buffet. Then on to the important things--writing! It wasn't strange or unusual for our talk to center on writing. It's our favorite topic.



It was exciting to hear everyone's progress (some of those present were published. Yeah! Some have agents.) and the great diverse ideas being plotted from different brains. We ranged from regency historical set in England to western historical, German Baptist stories, suspense, romance, childrens, women's fiction, and probably a lot of other ideas germinating in creative minds.



We discussed a few problems we have and how we deal with them. We talked about getting ideas and how we carried them out. We discussed agents and editors, and what we liked or disliked about different publishers. We passed on encouragement and praise. We talked about our upcoming ACFW conference in Minnesota this year.



We explained how our close-at-home writing groups work (or don't work) and what a help it is when they do. We teased each other, laughed, listened, loved, and had the great kind of fun together that only another writer understands.



We argued (agreeably) why some of us wrote what and how we do. Why it works for us. Why we like and want to write certain things.



Two middle graders were with us for the first time and we encouraged and listened to their dreams and thoughts about writing. Three new people who haven't yet joined our group were welcomed and encouraged to become a part.



Donna won the book give-away (even though I tried every which way to get it! Laugh!)



Happy sigh. I'm looking forward to more rewarding days like this. I needed this day. It was an encouragement when discouragement about my writing has been nibbling at my heels.





Quote:

Trouble shared is troubled halved. --Dorothy Salyers



Blessings

More Conference Thoughts . . .

1. ACFW is the premier of all inspirational writing conferences.
2. What other place can a novice writer find encouragement, admonition, and strength to keep on keeping on?
3. I learned how to plot more serious conflicts for my characters. All I can say is wow!
4. I met some terrific writers!
   
5. Brandt Dodson is a great speaker and a friendly person.
6. Cynthia Hickey is a wonderful new friend! And has a brand new contract! Yeah!
7. Pam Hillman is just as sweet as last year!
8. I learned more about layering my novels.
9. Dallas is a busy place.
10. Dallas is a friendly place.
11. I don't want to live in Dallas!
12. James Scott Bell is a funny person.
13. Chip McGregor is a sarcastic person; but he's also friendly and approachable.
14. It's fun to be with famous people. Grin.
15. It was great to meet Mary and Shar and Angie!
16. I love Starbucks coffee.
17. Love dining like a "big shot." Grin.
18. My favorite classes? The suspense ones, plus Krista's late night "hello" class. Oh, and the early bird sessions.
    
19. It's okay not to plot extensively.
20. Going back next year!
    

Safety tips for women:

• If you're ever thrown into the trunk of a car (Heaven forbid!), kick out the back lights and stick your arm out and start waving like crazy!
• Keep alert: know where you are and what's going on around you.
• Watch the body language: head up, swing your arms, stand straight!
• Don't be at the wrong place at the wrong time! No alley walks or bad neighborhoods!
• Don't just sit in your car working on the checkbook or making a list. Too easy for someone to get in the passenger side! Lock doors and leave!
• Keep your eyes on cars around you. Watch for loitering people. GO back inside and ask for someone to walk you to the car.
• Don't take empty stairs; use the elevator!

Quote:
Communication means a sharing together of what you really are. With the stethoscope of love you listen until you hear the heartbeat of the other. --Bartlett and margaret Hess

Blessings!

Still Bouncing!


ACFW conference was totally awesome! On my writing group loop they're commenting on all the things they learned while there (or from those who went). Here's my list for you to scan over! Grin.

1. Sometimes you don't make the right choices. The car we chose to drive gave us trouble. Why? have no idea. Can't see any reason why God allowed it. Made our trip longer. Good thing we don't know all, huh? Might not have wanted to know the reason!
2. Sometimes you don't make the right choices. That's right. I already said that! But it goes for choosing agents, too. Don't really think the agent I talked to and I got off on the right wave length, but who knows? Maybe I should have followed my instincts . . .
3. Editors are people. Yeah, they really are. My editor choice this year was a tough one, but from get-go, we tuned in together. AND I got another invitation to submit a proposal! Yeah! That's another step in the right direction. Someday, I'll get there.
4. Things turn around. Sometimes you think something isn't working when it really is. We get to choose tables to sit at for meals (they're hosted by different agents and editors and others). One I chose for a meal didn't seem to be working out, but at the last minute, did.
   
5. Writers are nice people. Of course, I'm prejudiced, but it could be I'm right, too! Met some new friends and talked to some old ones.
   
6. I'm almost there! Had this reaffirmed once again. My paid critiquer said that. Make a few logistical corrections and . . . Closer, people, closer. I can almost feel that contract!
   
7. I've got a really super hubby!I How many husbands fuss at the time a writer spends at the computer, traveling, researching, money spent out (this is a business, you know!), and all sorts of other things. NOT mine. He's so great to take the time to go with me. Love that guy!
8. Learned some things . . . classes and information, and chats, and meetings, invitations, opportunities, and all kinds of things . . . all part of the learning process in writing.
   

I'm so grateful for this once-a-year opportunity. Thanks to all who prayed for me. Now to work to take advantage of all these invitations!




Hints to help keep you safe:

• When driving, don't line your car up with the one next to you so that your doors are parellel. Stagger your car's position.
• Don't make eye contact.
• Try your best to time your arrival at a light so that you can coast on through. Don't stop unless you have to.
• Consider taking some kind of protection training with attributes.

Quote
The only thing that can beat fear is the confidence gained from experience.

Blessings!

Flash Fiction . . . Yeah, Right!


You heard of it? It's an abbreviated version of a story. Maybe, oh, say . . 100, 150 words. Someone on a writing loop recently mentioned it. I even read a story and the writer did a fantastic job of getting her point across.

But, me? Nope. Afraid not. I'm "too wordy" . . . sometimes. Too "in love with my words." That's the advice I get back by "those in the know." In other words, other writers who've decided they can "critique."

What kind of critique is that? I mean, I'm a writer. I broadcast to each and every person who'll listen a second. There's nothing I like to talk more about than writing! Wordy? Someone needs to make sure their head's screwed on right.

Aren't writer's suppose to write? Aren't they suppose to love words? Aren't they suppose to get their points across?

Here are some rules I've had to learn since picking up the pen (computer) again:

• POV - don't jump from one person's view to another (unless, of course, you change scenes.) I want to tell you, almost every secular writer I've read after does this. Few don't!
• Adverbs and (sometimes) adjectives are bad words. No! (slap of the hand) No!
• By all means, never use the words "seem" "was" or "felt." If you do, you'd better just make sure you don't have two in one chapter.
  
• There should never be more than three, preferably two, sentences that begin with the protagonist's name on one page. Same for the word "she/he."
• You must learn to use variety in your sentence structure. Independent, dependent, simple, etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. Enough said?
• "I can't believe you used a word that ends with "ing." You are an outcast! Archaic! Unlearned!
• Cut out all unnecessary things that don't move the plot along? If that's the case, why ask for subplots and more subplots? Huh?

. . . and tons more a hard working writer's gotta learn.

My biggest problems now? Probably the plotting and disaster areas. Mysteries? Not too much problem. Romance? Now that's a different story . . . Flash fiction? Someday, maybe.

Now that I've done my whining for the day--back to writing and learning to pare those words!
Another day, another mile . . . er . . . chapter.


Want to have your home smelling scrumptious? Try these hints:

• Scented Potpourri: sprinkle in baskets, terracotta pots or teacups! Spread thru home, in view or hidden. Your choice!
• Air fresheners! Unashamedly they are a great way to spread that beloved smell.
• Scented candles: perfection.
• Homemade goodies: simmering spiced tea, warm apple cider, freshly baked gingerbread cookies, or apple pie fresh from the oven. What better way?
  

Quote:
A man of courage is not ashamed to admit his faults, failures and sins.



Blessings!

Five lessons about the way we treat people.

1. The Cleaning Lady

I handed in my paper, leaving the last question blank. Just before class ended, one student asked if the last question would count toward our quiz grade.

"Absolutely," said the professor. "In your careers, you will meet many people. All are significant. They deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile and say 'hello.' "

I've never forgotten that lesson. I also learned her name was Dorothy.

2. Pickup in the Rain

One night, at 11:30 p.m., an older African American woman was standing on the side of an Alabama highway trying to endure a lashing rain storm. Her car had broken down and she desperately needed a ride. Soaking wet, she decided to flag down the next car. A young white man stopped to help her (generally unheard of in those conflict-filled 1960's). The man took her to safety, helped her get assistance and put her into a taxicab.

She seemed to be in a big hurry, but wrote down his address and thanked him. Seven days went by and a knock came on the man's door. To his surprise, a special note read: "Thank you so much for assisting me on the highway the other night. The rain drenched not only my clothes, but also my spirits. Then you came along. Because of you, I was able to make it to my dying husband's bedside just before he passed away... God bless you for helping me and unselfishly serving others." Sincerely, Mrs. Nat King Cole.

3. Always remember those who serve.

In the days when an ice cream sundae cost much less, a 10-year-old boy entered a hotel coffee shop and sat at a table. A waitress put a glass of water in front of him.

"How much is an ice cream sundae?" he asked.
"Fifty cents," replied the waitress.

The little boy pulled is hand out of his pocket and studied the coins in it. "Well, how much is a plain dish of ice cream?" he inquired.

By now more people were waiting for a table and the waitress was growing impatient. "Thirty-five cents," she brusquely replied.

The little boy again counted his coins. "I'll have the plain ice cream," he said.

The waitress brought the ice cream, put the bill on the table and walked away The boy finished the ice cream, paid the cashier and left. When the waitress came back, she began to cry as she wiped down the table. There, placed neatly beside the empty dish, were two nickels and five pennies..

You see, he couldn't have the sundae, because he had to have enough left to leave her a tip.

4. The obstacle in Our Path.

In ancient times, a King had a boulder placed on a roadway. Then he hid himself and watched to see if anyone would remove the huge rock. Some of the king's wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by and simply walked around it. Many loudly blamed the King for not keeping the roads clear, but none did anything about getting the stone out of the way.

Then a peasant came along carrying a load of vegetables. Upon approaching the boulder, the peasant laid down his burden and tried to move the stone to the side of the road. After much pushing and straining, he finally succeeded. After the peasant picked up his load of vegetables, he noticed a purse lying in the road where the boulder had been. The purse contained many gold coins and a note from the King indicating that the gold was for the person who removed the boulder from the roadway. The peasant learned what many of us never understand!

Every obstacle presents an opportunity to improve our condition.

5. Giving When it Counts . . .

Many years ago, when I worked as a volunteer at a hospital, I got to know a little girl named Liz who was suffering from a rare and serious disease. Her only chance of recovery appeared to be a blood transfusion from her 5-year old brother, who had miraculously survived the same disease and had developed the antibodies needed to combat the illness. The doctor explained the situation to her little brother, and asked the little boy if he would be willing to give his blood to his sister.

I saw him hesitate for only a moment before taking a deep breath and saying, "Yes I'll do it if it will save her." As the transfusion progressed, he lay in bed next to his sister and smiled, as we all did, seeing the color returning to her cheek.

Then his face grew pale and his smile faded. He looked up at the doctor and asked with a trembling voice, "Will I start to die right away?"

Being young, the little boy had misunderstood the doctor; he thought he was going to have to give his sister all of his blood in order to save her.

How many Americans have learned these lessons? Have I?

Going camping this summer? Here are a few fun hints:

• Cook your eggs in canning rings for egg sandwiches
• In an emergency: Nylon rope can be used as shoe laces
• Old shower curtains make great ground sheets
• (If you're really in the outback:) Make a camp washing machine from a five gallon bucket and a toilet plunger (Laugh!)

Quote:
Live for today but hold your hands open to tomorrow. Anticipate the future and its changes with joy. There is a seed of God's love in every event, every circumstance, every unpleasant situation in which you may find yourself. --Barbara Johnson

Blessings