Pony rides, carnival rides, and best yet, they had a wild animal exhibit. WITH TIGERS!!!!! And it was up close and personal!!
Time to kick up my tired feet and order pizza! Enjoy your weekend weather!
Saturday, May 30, 2009
A Wonderful Weekend
It has been such a good weekend, I'm too tired to really describe much of this. haha. Kids and I went to a Farmer's Market in the morning, and then after spending lunch in the vet's office with Mr. Nervous (the nickname the vet gave my dog), I took Sophie to a festival downtown.
My First Bloggy Review
YAY! I love firsts. First dates. First kisses. First... REVIEWS!!
I guess it's not an official review since the ARC's aren't available yet, but a few people got a chance to preview The Naughty List. And now, I'm so happy to see that The Frenetic Reader mentioned The Naughty List on her latest Vlog review! And omg, how dang cute is she?? haha.
Here it is, my first review!!! http://freneticreader.blogspot.com/2009/05/unicorns-marshmallows-and-cheaters-oh.html
I guess it's not an official review since the ARC's aren't available yet, but a few people got a chance to preview The Naughty List. And now, I'm so happy to see that The Frenetic Reader mentioned The Naughty List on her latest Vlog review! And omg, how dang cute is she?? haha.
Here it is, my first review!!! http://freneticreader.blogspot.com/2009/05/unicorns-marshmallows-and-cheaters-oh.html
Friday, May 29, 2009
Auctions are dope! Starring Bridget Zinn
Well, excuse this post because I just got home from a silent auction (there might be some typos!) So for now, here is a post in pictures--I'll post some links later.
Tonight I had the opportunity to go to a silent auction benefitting Bridget Zinn. I was so happy to go, help with the raffle, and bid on items. By the way, I was high bidder on a three night getaway!!!!!! Yay! Husband is VERY happy!
The guest of honor, the beautiful Bridget Zinn and hubby, Barrett
Matthew Holm, the man responsible for BABYMOUSE, and wife Cindy (love her!)
Carolyn Conahan who donated two books--although I didn't win them. :-(
Bridget looking gorgeous with author Roseanne Parry and Carmen T. Bernier-Grand
Johanna Wright with her fabulous painting (which I didn't win ):-( But it was AWESOME!
Me and the Very charming Kim Kasch
me and the SUPER DOPETASTIC CINDY!
Jone and Lisa Nowak!
Money was raised, spirits were high, and it was great night. I was so happy to be a part of it!! Thank you, Jone MacCulloch!. And it was wonderful seeing you Bridget and Barrett!!!
How to beat the revision blues...
Cupcakes!! I decided to get all mommed out yesterday and baked cupcakes with Sophia. I woke up this morning to an empty pan, meaning my children got up in the middle of the night to devour them. Not surprised. At all.
Anyway, here are our masterpieces:
(Hint: Don't eat the ones that she frosted--they've been licked, and you've been warned)
Happy weekend and see you Monday for A Very NAUGHTY Contest!!!!!!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
A very NAUGHTY contest
Contest alert! Starting next week, I’m going to have a give-away! One book will be given out every day, Monday-Friday. And this is good stuff! I’ll have a list from my own shelves next week, but it’ll include my favorites—like The Forest of Hands and Teeth! I might even take requests and go to the store and buy something. Just for you. Because I love you.
So what do you have to do??? Easy—but it’s a little Naughty. ;-)
On contest day, I'll give you a scenerio and you tell me the best way to catch a cheating boyfriend. (have you heard about my book, The Naughty List? It’s about a group of girls who investigate and catch cheating boyfriends). The funnier the better.
Now keep it clean! It is for teens. And it doesn’t have to be long. For example: Put a tracking device in his underwear. :-)
Enter as many times as you want and the winner will be chosen by Sophia—although I won’t let her read the entries. I’ll just let her pick the name out of an Easter basket (we have a ton of those things laying around!) One entry per comment, so do it up!
Only one winner per day and you can’t win twice, but you can still participate, because this stuff will be FUNNY!
Thanks, everyone! And I can’t wait to start reading!!!!!
So what do you have to do??? Easy—but it’s a little Naughty. ;-)
On contest day, I'll give you a scenerio and you tell me the best way to catch a cheating boyfriend. (have you heard about my book, The Naughty List? It’s about a group of girls who investigate and catch cheating boyfriends). The funnier the better.
Now keep it clean! It is for teens. And it doesn’t have to be long. For example: Put a tracking device in his underwear. :-)
Enter as many times as you want and the winner will be chosen by Sophia—although I won’t let her read the entries. I’ll just let her pick the name out of an Easter basket (we have a ton of those things laying around!) One entry per comment, so do it up!
Only one winner per day and you can’t win twice, but you can still participate, because this stuff will be FUNNY!
Thanks, everyone! And I can’t wait to start reading!!!!!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Thinking ahead...
I want to give something away. But what?? My ARC's are weeks out, but you know I will get ALL CRAZY on here giving some away. Right now, I have some other pretty cool stuff.
I have TONS of wonderful, fabulous books. Even some audio tapes. I do have an adorable, signed picture book to give away next week, but other than that, I want to do something.
Hm... let me think about it. Once the book comes out, I'd love to have a book trailer party (I don't have one yet), cupcake party (chocolate with sprinkles), and even a zombie squirrel party! (Decorations provided by Sophia).
So I'll be back with a SUPER FUN GIVEAWAY!!!! If you can think of something you'd like (don't do the million dollars joke. It's been done), let me know! I need ideas!
-Suz
Sunday, May 24, 2009
My writing weekend
I'm nearing the end of my revision, but to get there, I had to check into a hotel to work. Due to overuse of my brain, I can't really think of anything clever to say right now. Except that during my quiet and peaceful trip I got to listen to other people's kids scream and yell, and best yet, the fire alarm went off near midnight. We had to evacuate the hotel. For fun, I took a picture. And tweeted the entire event while I waited to get back inside.
So by Sunday, I called it quits and went to the zoo, although I was too mentally exhausted to take more than this picture.
Okay, time for me to lay on the couch and rest. But Susan Meyers did a quickie interview of me on her blog. You should check it out! http://susanameyers.blogspot.com/
Have a nice Memorial Day :-)
So by Sunday, I called it quits and went to the zoo, although I was too mentally exhausted to take more than this picture.
Okay, time for me to lay on the couch and rest. But Susan Meyers did a quickie interview of me on her blog. You should check it out! http://susanameyers.blogspot.com/
Have a nice Memorial Day :-)
Friday, May 22, 2009
The Friday Temptation: LA SCBWI 2009
I am so lucky to interview Holly Cupala, author and readergirlz diva! She is an amazing conference success story. Any aspiring writers who are wondering what could happen from a conference, Holly’s journey is the ultimate in awesome!
Thanks for being a part of this, Holly! I love your blog over at http://www.brimstonesoup.blogspot.com/ (everyone should check it out!)
One of the first things I noticed on your blog is that your novel, A LIGHT THAT NEVER GOES OUT, won a SCBWI work in progress grant! How did that play into you getting an agent?
Thank you, Suzanne!
Oddly enough, not at all—though it helped quite a bit in getting queries read. In keeping with my general strategy of time conservation, I would only send e-queries to agents accepting multiple submissions, and I would put “SCBWI WIP Grant Recipient” in the subject line. I had a 100% request rate (though I accrued some rejections, of course).
I met my agent, the very awesome Edward Necarsulmer IV of McIntosh & Otis, at the 2008 SCBWI Winter Conference in NYC at the Writer’s Intensive—a very cool event introduced a couple of years ago (yay, Steve and Lin!). There are two roundtable sessions of ten writers and one random professional. You bring 500 words (two pages) to read and receive feedback, all in a snappy 12 minutes. I read my two pages, and Edward said (and I quote with relish): “W-w-w-w-wow. I..I…I…can’t think of anything to suggest on this.” (Me: Woohoo! He likes it!)
Later, he stopped me to chat and proceeded to completely freak me out.
Edward: “Have I done something to offend you…”
Me: (oh, crap)
Edward: “…that you haven’t sent me this manuscript yet?”
Me: (whew!) “Uh, no!” (but I had no idea how to pronounce your name…)
So I sent it. At the time, there were several other agents looking at the manuscript—which is great for lighting a fire, actually—and he asked me to keep him posted. Another agent contacted me to offer, and I gave him a heads up. He wrote back with an offer. I ended up talking with both of them and deciding he was a better fit. Actually, that I would be completely crazy not to sign with him because he’s pretty much the agent bomb.
How soon after submitting your work did you sell your novel(s)?
Of the two possible agents, he was the one who wanted me to revise—and that was part of why I liked him. He really “got” the manuscript and had some great suggestions. So I worked on a revision for a few months. Then he sent it to a group of editors: several I had met at conferences, and one hand-picked by him. His choice was pie-in-the-sky for me, because I’ve been blown away by her previous work (especially The White Darkness, which I loved) and thought there was no way she would like my book. But she did! She ended up offering a preempt two-book deal. So it was about three months of revision and three weeks of pure torture. I actually got the news as I was catching a plane for the 2008 SCBWI Summer Conference in LA (where I met you, Suzanne!).
I love the title A LIGHT THAT NEVER GOES OUT (which was changed from BRIMSTONE SOUP). Can you tell us a little bit about it? When’s the release date?
Ha, the title will change again before this book hits the shelves! Though it’s not official yet, since it’s currently in the cover design stage and might not stick. It’s supposed to come out in August of 2010. Here’s a little of the teaser I’ve been working on:
It’s tough, living in the shadow of a dead girl…her name is my family’s purest form of blasphemy.
In the five years since her bad girl sister Xanda’s death, Miranda Mathison has been holding her family together. For five years, she has wondered about the secret her sister took to the grave, and what really happened the night she left. Now, just as Miranda has everything she’s ever dreamed of—a ticket to art school, a best friend to unlock the secrets of her sister’s world, and a boyfriend to fly her away from it all—Miranda has a terrible secret of her own…one that will blow it all apart.
How much of a role do you think the SCBWI conferences played in your success?
HUGE. Huge. I owe enormous thanks, boxes of chocolates, and flowers to the wonderful people
at SCBWI. Here are my official conference tips: get your work in the best possible shape, then get it in front of editors who will request it. Once you have several requests, start querying and meeting agents—they will love you for your manuscript, and for coming to them with a handful of editors hungry for more. Always be gracious and thankful, and don’t be discouraged if you haven’t found the right fit yet—keep trying!
Holly, I think you’re awesome (and I’ve met her folks! She’s really this cool!) And I know I’m looking forward to the release of A LIGHT THAT NEVER GOES OUT, and can’t wait to start hearing more about Book 2!!
Thanks again!!!
Thanks for being a part of this, Holly! I love your blog over at http://www.brimstonesoup.blogspot.com/ (everyone should check it out!)
One of the first things I noticed on your blog is that your novel, A LIGHT THAT NEVER GOES OUT, won a SCBWI work in progress grant! How did that play into you getting an agent?
Thank you, Suzanne!
Oddly enough, not at all—though it helped quite a bit in getting queries read. In keeping with my general strategy of time conservation, I would only send e-queries to agents accepting multiple submissions, and I would put “SCBWI WIP Grant Recipient” in the subject line. I had a 100% request rate (though I accrued some rejections, of course).
I met my agent, the very awesome Edward Necarsulmer IV of McIntosh & Otis, at the 2008 SCBWI Winter Conference in NYC at the Writer’s Intensive—a very cool event introduced a couple of years ago (yay, Steve and Lin!). There are two roundtable sessions of ten writers and one random professional. You bring 500 words (two pages) to read and receive feedback, all in a snappy 12 minutes. I read my two pages, and Edward said (and I quote with relish): “W-w-w-w-wow. I..I…I…can’t think of anything to suggest on this.” (Me: Woohoo! He likes it!)
Later, he stopped me to chat and proceeded to completely freak me out.
Edward: “Have I done something to offend you…”
Me: (oh, crap)
Edward: “…that you haven’t sent me this manuscript yet?”
Me: (whew!) “Uh, no!” (but I had no idea how to pronounce your name…)
So I sent it. At the time, there were several other agents looking at the manuscript—which is great for lighting a fire, actually—and he asked me to keep him posted. Another agent contacted me to offer, and I gave him a heads up. He wrote back with an offer. I ended up talking with both of them and deciding he was a better fit. Actually, that I would be completely crazy not to sign with him because he’s pretty much the agent bomb.
How soon after submitting your work did you sell your novel(s)?
Of the two possible agents, he was the one who wanted me to revise—and that was part of why I liked him. He really “got” the manuscript and had some great suggestions. So I worked on a revision for a few months. Then he sent it to a group of editors: several I had met at conferences, and one hand-picked by him. His choice was pie-in-the-sky for me, because I’ve been blown away by her previous work (especially The White Darkness, which I loved) and thought there was no way she would like my book. But she did! She ended up offering a preempt two-book deal. So it was about three months of revision and three weeks of pure torture. I actually got the news as I was catching a plane for the 2008 SCBWI Summer Conference in LA (where I met you, Suzanne!).
I love the title A LIGHT THAT NEVER GOES OUT (which was changed from BRIMSTONE SOUP). Can you tell us a little bit about it? When’s the release date?
Ha, the title will change again before this book hits the shelves! Though it’s not official yet, since it’s currently in the cover design stage and might not stick. It’s supposed to come out in August of 2010. Here’s a little of the teaser I’ve been working on:
It’s tough, living in the shadow of a dead girl…her name is my family’s purest form of blasphemy.
In the five years since her bad girl sister Xanda’s death, Miranda Mathison has been holding her family together. For five years, she has wondered about the secret her sister took to the grave, and what really happened the night she left. Now, just as Miranda has everything she’s ever dreamed of—a ticket to art school, a best friend to unlock the secrets of her sister’s world, and a boyfriend to fly her away from it all—Miranda has a terrible secret of her own…one that will blow it all apart.
How much of a role do you think the SCBWI conferences played in your success?
HUGE. Huge. I owe enormous thanks, boxes of chocolates, and flowers to the wonderful people
at SCBWI. Here are my official conference tips: get your work in the best possible shape, then get it in front of editors who will request it. Once you have several requests, start querying and meeting agents—they will love you for your manuscript, and for coming to them with a handful of editors hungry for more. Always be gracious and thankful, and don’t be discouraged if you haven’t found the right fit yet—keep trying!
Holly, I think you’re awesome (and I’ve met her folks! She’s really this cool!) And I know I’m looking forward to the release of A LIGHT THAT NEVER GOES OUT, and can’t wait to start hearing more about Book 2!!
Thanks again!!!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Book two + Swine Flu = Not Good
Okay, I know I don't have the swine flu. Most of the pigs I know are clean (they swear!) and I haven't really been THAT sick. Just sick enough to not be able to write. Fever, body aches, hallucinations (not really)--all combining to make my life miserable.
So this week I'll be posting a Friday Temptation with an interview with the fabulous Holly Cupala, but other than that, I'm chillin' in bed. BUT, this weekend I'm getting a hotel room for the night to finish off the book. I hate missing deadlines. And as long as I can breathe, I won't miss one.
Unless they have cable.
:-)
So this week I'll be posting a Friday Temptation with an interview with the fabulous Holly Cupala, but other than that, I'm chillin' in bed. BUT, this weekend I'm getting a hotel room for the night to finish off the book. I hate missing deadlines. And as long as I can breathe, I won't miss one.
Unless they have cable.
:-)
Monday, May 18, 2009
Washington SCBWI Conference: Day 2
So here are a few more pictures. I have to say, this conference has gotten me so excited to go to LA this year. It was amazing to be surrounded by writers and other people in the business. People that get you.
How I felt the next morning after... writing so much.
The wonderful carpool crew! Laini Taylor, Jim Di Bartolo and Emily Whitman
A picture to show I wasn't excessively smiling the ENTIRE time.
Why, yes. That is the amazing Nathan Bransford. As an aside, can I just say, he is the nicest, most humble person I met. Unbelievably charming and smart. I was very happy to put a face to the blog.
The breakout sessions were fantastic--and very funny (I'm looking at you, Jon Scieszka!) And honestly, it was one of those experiences that made me think, Damn. I have the best job in the world. :-)
How I felt the next morning after... writing so much.
The wonderful carpool crew! Laini Taylor, Jim Di Bartolo and Emily Whitman
A picture to show I wasn't excessively smiling the ENTIRE time.
Why, yes. That is the amazing Nathan Bransford. As an aside, can I just say, he is the nicest, most humble person I met. Unbelievably charming and smart. I was very happy to put a face to the blog.
Huh. Not sure how I got to be first in line for Adam Rex to sign my book... but I was pretty stoked about it!
What an awesome group to hang with! Liz Gallagher, Holly Cupala, Jolie Stekly, Jim Di Bartolo and Laini Taylor.
Me and Jolie snuck out to enjoy some sunshine
Before I was assaulted with a lemon. I'm not naming names....
Hangin' at the wine and cheese party with the Stinky Cheese Man himself
Me and Jennie, taking notes....
Go Team SCBWI, Go!
So, I'm not the most thorough conference goer... but I always have a good time. I love to chat and meet people (I won't mention the severe social anxiety disorder) and for me, that's what I enjoy most. I attended a bunch of workshops and loved them. I tweeted some tidbits, but mostly, it was the inspiration I took away from them. A desire to make my career last forever.
Because writing ROCKS!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Washington SCBWI Conference: Day 1
What a weekend! First of all, let me say that I'm blown away by the faculty that attended the SCBWI Western Washington Conference. Just to name a few, Michael Stearns, Nathan Bransford, Kelly Sonnack, Steven Malk, Krista Marino, Adam Rex, Ellen Hopkins and Jon Scieszka. Not only were these fabulous people there, they were available. Friendly. Good looking. Seriously!
But there were also awesome writers, organizers, and free drinks... I mean, meals. Oh, yeah, and I got TONS of writing done (not really) and am completely ready for the next project. :-)
Well, I just got back to lovely Oregon and I need some sleep. Too much writing (not really) has worn me out!
So for now, just a few pics. Tomorrow, I'll let you in on the good stuff! But for on the spot twittering, feel free to check my updates from the last few days on my twitter feed to the right.
Have a great day!
-Suz
Jolie, me and Jennie
Um, yeah. Adam Rex.
Me and fabulous author Laini Taylor
Jolie, Jaime and me (Part of this year's LA SCBWI team bloggers!)
It's Ellen Hopkins!
More tomorrow!
But there were also awesome writers, organizers, and free drinks... I mean, meals. Oh, yeah, and I got TONS of writing done (not really) and am completely ready for the next project. :-)
Well, I just got back to lovely Oregon and I need some sleep. Too much writing (not really) has worn me out!
So for now, just a few pics. Tomorrow, I'll let you in on the good stuff! But for on the spot twittering, feel free to check my updates from the last few days on my twitter feed to the right.
Have a great day!
-Suz
Jolie, me and Jennie
Um, yeah. Adam Rex.
Me and fabulous author Laini Taylor
Jolie, Jaime and me (Part of this year's LA SCBWI team bloggers!)
It's Ellen Hopkins!
More tomorrow!
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Such a cool day starring Melissa Marr!
I had a very cool day today! I've been excited for a while because I have been a huge fan of the Wicked Lovely series by Melissa Marr. And today, she was in Beaverton to sign books! Yay!!!
And I even got the chance to bump into her ahead of time while grabbing a latte. Here's the best part... she recognized me! I got all nervous and sweaty and babbled some incoherant things, but luckily Sophie was there asking her if she was my friend Elissa and stuff like that. SMOOTH!
Anyway, she is a wonderful speaker! Her talk was great and afterwards I got my books signed. I even got to see another author L.K. Madigan there! It was a night of awesome!
On top of that, my friend Sasha Vivelo sent me signed copies of her latest books (and I'm in the acknowledgements). So today, I feel super duper cool!
This author thing is sort of fun sometimes!!!!
(Me getting ready for the signing)
Me, Melissa and Sophie.
Sasha's Books!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Field Trip!!
I'll be out of town this weekend at the Western Washington SCBWI conference. YAY! I'm so looking forward to chatting with authors, agents and editors from all over.
But I'm going to be a very good (writer) girl. I plan to spend my evening typing away in my hotel room. A room that is quiet and free of dogs, makeovers, and dirty dishes. A room that is gloriously all mine.
Only problem is, a bunch of my friends will be at the conference too, and I have no will power! (see the lack of personal trainer posts!) Such a dilemna. But I will take lots of photos and when I get back, I should have some fun and entertaining stories!!!!
Just hope they don't have people selling knock-out spray like they did at the Portland Blogger Conference..... Those pyramid schemes are SCARY!!
Anyone else gonna be up in Washington this weekend? I'd love to say hi!
But I'm going to be a very good (writer) girl. I plan to spend my evening typing away in my hotel room. A room that is quiet and free of dogs, makeovers, and dirty dishes. A room that is gloriously all mine.
Only problem is, a bunch of my friends will be at the conference too, and I have no will power! (see the lack of personal trainer posts!) Such a dilemna. But I will take lots of photos and when I get back, I should have some fun and entertaining stories!!!!
Just hope they don't have people selling knock-out spray like they did at the Portland Blogger Conference..... Those pyramid schemes are SCARY!!
Anyone else gonna be up in Washington this weekend? I'd love to say hi!
Monday, May 11, 2009
My First Date!
I was talking with a friend today about writing books (go figure!) and I mentioned how I LOVE the feeling of writing something new.
I said, “It’s like a first date—completely exciting and full of possibilities. I’m on my best behavior and we get along so well! But then, when you start working on the revision, it’s not fresh anymore. It’s like you’ve been together for years.”
To which he responded, “Yeah, and you get all comfortable—stop shaving your legs—”
Best. Analogy. Ever.
It’s time to put some romance back in my revisionlationship! So if I'm not around, just pretend I'm out buying revision lingerie--aka: new character love interests! That'll spice up any revisionlationship!
Suz
I said, “It’s like a first date—completely exciting and full of possibilities. I’m on my best behavior and we get along so well! But then, when you start working on the revision, it’s not fresh anymore. It’s like you’ve been together for years.”
To which he responded, “Yeah, and you get all comfortable—stop shaving your legs—”
Best. Analogy. Ever.
It’s time to put some romance back in my revisionlationship! So if I'm not around, just pretend I'm out buying revision lingerie--aka: new character love interests! That'll spice up any revisionlationship!
Suz
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Friday, May 8, 2009
The Friday Temptation: LA SCBWI 2009
Thinking about the conference, I thought maybe I’d do a round up of what the SCBWI LA 2009 blogging team has been up to. Pretty soon we’ll be in LA full-force—blogging, tweeting, interviewing, drinking…wait, I mean networking. If you don’t recognize us, we might have T-shirts (Personally I’m hoping for headbands!) But if you see us, feel free to introduce yourself! I love meeting new people. And if it’s your first conference, let me know! I’d love to interview you!
The Team:
I’m sure you know the brilliant Alice Pope, who I had the fortunate chance to meet over sock puppets last year. Her blog is the complete publishing business package. This week she has some great interviews.
The wonderful Paula Yoo has been doing amazing things with NaPiBoWriWee on her blog! If you haven’t seen it (and I’m sure you have) you MUST check it out.
Jolie Stekly showcased the most awesome birthday cake ever, along with a picture of the elusive Mt. Clothesmore.
The recently hitched Jaime Temairik has been talking about the conference and showing us pictures from the low-riders convention!
And finally, my dear Lee Wind has been keeping me up to date on the latest law changes, AI, rainbow cakes and some great interviews!
With all of these fabulous bloggers, how could you not go to LA?? It’s gonna be super fun!!
Oh, and I think I just found THE PERFECT COSTUME for the Saturday Night Party! Want to know what it is?? Sorry.... You’ll have to be there to see….
The Team:
I’m sure you know the brilliant Alice Pope, who I had the fortunate chance to meet over sock puppets last year. Her blog is the complete publishing business package. This week she has some great interviews.
The wonderful Paula Yoo has been doing amazing things with NaPiBoWriWee on her blog! If you haven’t seen it (and I’m sure you have) you MUST check it out.
Jolie Stekly showcased the most awesome birthday cake ever, along with a picture of the elusive Mt. Clothesmore.
The recently hitched Jaime Temairik has been talking about the conference and showing us pictures from the low-riders convention!
And finally, my dear Lee Wind has been keeping me up to date on the latest law changes, AI, rainbow cakes and some great interviews!
With all of these fabulous bloggers, how could you not go to LA?? It’s gonna be super fun!!
Oh, and I think I just found THE PERFECT COSTUME for the Saturday Night Party! Want to know what it is?? Sorry.... You’ll have to be there to see….
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Kids say the Darnest things
I was helping my daughter put her dollhouse back together when I got an email on my phone. I read it and then said to Sophia, "I'll be right back, I have to send my agent an email real quick."
Her face lit up. "You have an AGENT!"
I stood up and nodded. "Uh... yeah."
She was beside herself with excitement. "Wow! Is that like having a butler or something?"
"Or something."
Other terms that could work: Therapist, friend, mother, devil, genius.... Did I catch them all, Melissa? haha.
Have a great day everyone!! I'm busy as all heck!
Her face lit up. "You have an AGENT!"
I stood up and nodded. "Uh... yeah."
She was beside herself with excitement. "Wow! Is that like having a butler or something?"
"Or something."
Other terms that could work: Therapist, friend, mother, devil, genius.... Did I catch them all, Melissa? haha.
Have a great day everyone!! I'm busy as all heck!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
An Important Family Day
It has been a crazy few days. If I’m being honest, it’s changed me in a lot of ways. Many of you know I write obsessively. Not because I want to sell a bunch of books and be a millionaire (although, hey, who would turn that down). I write because I love the feeling of creating new characters, new lives, a new book.
But on Saturday my eight-year-old showed me a bump on his leg. A lump. I took him to the urgent care to be told that he had a bone tumor. Ever see in a movie when the actor’s face seems to come at you while the background fades away? That was me.
I had to wait a few days to see a specialist, although they did get him in VERY FAST! And thankfully, even though my husband and I both lost our jobs, I was smart enough to have individual health insurance policies on my kids.
This morning… was hard. I was so terrified to go to the doctor. I considered waking up my son, getting him dressed, and just going to the beach and never coming back. I actually considered that more seriously than I should have.
But something wonderful happened. A doctor actually told me something I wanted to hear. Last time I took someone to the doctor, she died three weeks later. This time, the doctor saved my life. He said that the tumor is benign and that we’d x-ray it every few months to determine if surgery would be needed. He said this was the best possible tumor to have.
And right now, that’s the best possible answer to have.
But on Saturday my eight-year-old showed me a bump on his leg. A lump. I took him to the urgent care to be told that he had a bone tumor. Ever see in a movie when the actor’s face seems to come at you while the background fades away? That was me.
I had to wait a few days to see a specialist, although they did get him in VERY FAST! And thankfully, even though my husband and I both lost our jobs, I was smart enough to have individual health insurance policies on my kids.
This morning… was hard. I was so terrified to go to the doctor. I considered waking up my son, getting him dressed, and just going to the beach and never coming back. I actually considered that more seriously than I should have.
But something wonderful happened. A doctor actually told me something I wanted to hear. Last time I took someone to the doctor, she died three weeks later. This time, the doctor saved my life. He said that the tumor is benign and that we’d x-ray it every few months to determine if surgery would be needed. He said this was the best possible tumor to have.
And right now, that’s the best possible answer to have.
So when we were done, it was too late (and rainy) to go to the beach. So I bought my boy a fake mustache and took him to get pancakes. Because in the end, that’s all I ever really need to achieve in life.
It's time to REGISTER!!!!
Registration for the SCBWI LA 2009 Conference (that's a mouthful) has opened today! If you sign up, please comment so I can look forward to seeing you there!!
Happy Cinco de Mayo!!!!
REGISTER HERE: http://www.scbwi.org/Conference.aspx?Con=2
Happy Cinco de Mayo!!!!
REGISTER HERE: http://www.scbwi.org/Conference.aspx?Con=2
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Moved! And interviewed...
Well, we're settled into our new place... except for all the boxes piled around us. We had a hectic weekend--dogs running away, moving TONS of stuff, spending the afternoon in urgent care with my son. We also saw the Wolverine movie and my daughter is suddenly obsessed with him. Like has a crush. It's WEIRD!!!
I also got a chance to do an interview. You can check it out here: http://writerinterview.blogspot.com/
I have more craziness this week and next, but I'm hoping to tie everything up to chill all through June. YAY!!!
Have a great week!
I also got a chance to do an interview. You can check it out here: http://writerinterview.blogspot.com/
I have more craziness this week and next, but I'm hoping to tie everything up to chill all through June. YAY!!!
Have a great week!
Friday, May 1, 2009
The Friday Temptation: LA SCBWI 2009
The Friday Temptation: LA SCBWI 2009
If you’ve never been to a National SCBWI Conference, you’re seriously missing out! They have everything there—writers, artists, fire-breathers…. Okay. I’m kidding about the fire-breathers (although I’m sure you can find a dragon book or two there). But the conferences do hold tons of fun, information and inspiration. Don’t believe me? Well, I’m here to provide The Friday Temptation. Ways to convince you to come visit us at this year’s LA SCBWI 2009!
But don’t just rely on my opinion. Here are some actual first timers that recently attended their FIRST conference!
Dan Flannery, writer
I put so much energy into the concept for my book, but I needed an outside perspective to know how take it further. It’s easy to love your own writing and ideas, but falling in love with what you do isn’t exactly the best way to improve your craft. Firsthand, honest feedback from editors in the field is a rare resource, and I learned that the best thing for my book was to change the format from a picture book to a short chapter book. The SCBWI conference succeeded in walking the fine line between harsh realities and inspiring speeches, and by the end I was feeling confident in my ability to tackle the once daunting task of completing my first chapter book. Perhaps more importantly, I met some fantastic authors, illustrators, agents, and editors, and now I actually have somewhere to send my manuscript when it is done!
Sophia Sciacca, writer
I attended the SCBWI National Conference because I was sure the editor at my table would be impressed and blown away by my picture book. However, the feedback offered was totally contrary, and made me transparent as a writer. The reality was that this piece just wasn’t good enough for publication—yet. So my ego pulled a chair up beside me and whispered into my ear, “Now what?”
While the conference did not offer me the instant gratification of winning the “literary lottery,” it helped to rewire my thinking. Instead of approaching the conference with the expectation of being published, I wanted to leave with knowledge as to how to become a better writer, pure and simple. The conference was indeed a watershed moment, a challenge. I am truly excited about my future endeavors, and I can’t wait to bring my new writing to future conferences, armed with improved skills and knowledge.
**
Now I swear, I did not pay them for that. In fact, I hope they are self-Googling right now so that they can see their names up in lights (of computer screens).
Thank you Dan, Sophia and Danielle for sharing your stories!! Who’s next? I need some more fresh perspectives….. REGISTRATION BEGINS MAY 5th!!!!!!!
Suz
If you’ve never been to a National SCBWI Conference, you’re seriously missing out! They have everything there—writers, artists, fire-breathers…. Okay. I’m kidding about the fire-breathers (although I’m sure you can find a dragon book or two there). But the conferences do hold tons of fun, information and inspiration. Don’t believe me? Well, I’m here to provide The Friday Temptation. Ways to convince you to come visit us at this year’s LA SCBWI 2009!
But don’t just rely on my opinion. Here are some actual first timers that recently attended their FIRST conference!
Dan Flannery, writer
I put so much energy into the concept for my book, but I needed an outside perspective to know how take it further. It’s easy to love your own writing and ideas, but falling in love with what you do isn’t exactly the best way to improve your craft. Firsthand, honest feedback from editors in the field is a rare resource, and I learned that the best thing for my book was to change the format from a picture book to a short chapter book. The SCBWI conference succeeded in walking the fine line between harsh realities and inspiring speeches, and by the end I was feeling confident in my ability to tackle the once daunting task of completing my first chapter book. Perhaps more importantly, I met some fantastic authors, illustrators, agents, and editors, and now I actually have somewhere to send my manuscript when it is done!
Sophia Sciacca, writer
The SCBWI National Conference was electric! Chatting with others generated synergy connecting like souls and kindred spirits, united by a hunger for self-expression and desire to learn. Everyone was supportive, and from all walks of life. We are parents, teachers, single, married, retired, professionals, all armed with imagination. Workshop Sessions and the Agents’ Panel provided an education on the nuts and bolts of the business. I listened intently as editors stated what stands out to them in manuscripts, answered questions, and shared insights from their side of the desk. If I could bottle the good vibes and high-as-a-kite feeling I left with, I would!
Danielle Youngblood, writer
Danielle Youngblood, writer
I attended the SCBWI National Conference because I was sure the editor at my table would be impressed and blown away by my picture book. However, the feedback offered was totally contrary, and made me transparent as a writer. The reality was that this piece just wasn’t good enough for publication—yet. So my ego pulled a chair up beside me and whispered into my ear, “Now what?”
While the conference did not offer me the instant gratification of winning the “literary lottery,” it helped to rewire my thinking. Instead of approaching the conference with the expectation of being published, I wanted to leave with knowledge as to how to become a better writer, pure and simple. The conference was indeed a watershed moment, a challenge. I am truly excited about my future endeavors, and I can’t wait to bring my new writing to future conferences, armed with improved skills and knowledge.
**
Now I swear, I did not pay them for that. In fact, I hope they are self-Googling right now so that they can see their names up in lights (of computer screens).
Thank you Dan, Sophia and Danielle for sharing your stories!! Who’s next? I need some more fresh perspectives….. REGISTRATION BEGINS MAY 5th!!!!!!!
Suz
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