Terra Chandler

Publicity!!!

2008-11-23T10:51:00.000-08:00

Playing on iTunes: "Times They are A' Changin'" by Bob Dylan

Oh ma goodness, I think I know how Angelina Jolie feels. I met a reporter at Panera bread about a month ago. She said she wanted to do a story on my work. Yay! All was well until she said the dreaded sentance......"A photographer will be coming to shoot you...to shoot you....to shoot you....shoot you."

Like any photographer I know...I am rather camera shy. There is a reason we stay behind the lense.

So, the weeks dragged on...and about a week and a half ago a guy emailed me saying he needed to get with me for the article. *sigh* I was ALMOST hoping they'd forget that part. Alas...they did not. We arranged for him to meet at my house a few nights later...he didn't forget to do that either. When he finally pulled up into the driveway, I kind of floundered about for a bit...seeing if he wanted to walk down tot he park for some shots, head inside....stand in the driveway somemore. I am used to being able to tell a model what to do. In this case, I was the model and had no idea what to tell myself. *sigh....again*

He eventually just said he needed to shoot me in a way that showed that I was a photographer. So, I stood with my camera over my shoulder and stared down the barrel of his lense. Very nerve wracking...I must say. Everything like the feeling of being shot.

It all ended pretty quickly and he left.

Long story short...the article came out this morning!! It is fabulous!! The picture is awesome!!! I am very proud of it all. :)

Check it out in the Potomac News Messenger. I am headlining the "Your Life" section.

You can check out my photo blog at: www.terradawnphotography.blogspot.com .
My pet photography: www.doggonepetphotography.com
My Fashion: www.terradawnphotography.com

***The image above is not me....just an image I have taken. :)

Interviews Galore

2008-11-10T08:26:00.000-08:00

Playing on iTunes: "New Resolution" by Azure Ray

I AM BACK FROM VACATION!!! YAY!! Oddly enough, I am incredibly excited about this.... I feel like I haven't been productive for weeks.

Oh wait....

I haven't.

Well, in any case, I am starting my blogging extravaganza back off with a bang!! Today, I have an excellent interview from Celine Keirnan, author of "The Poison Throne" of the Moorehawke Trilogy.

Wynter Moorehawke, an older than her years master craftswoman, spent her childhood within the royal court. Skilled at diplomacy and game playing, she returns to her kingdom after a five year's absence to find that the Inquisition has become a real and present danger. Friendly spirits, speaking cats with no inhibitions, and days of joy in general are distant memories riding slowly from her on the wave of revolution.

Does Wynter's only chance of survival lie within or without of the resistance? Together with her powerful friend, The Lord Razi, and his mysterious friend Christopher Garron, Wynter must try and restore the Kingdom to its former stability and peace. But this new Kingdom is a dangerous place, where all resistance is brutally suppressed, and the trio run the constant risk of imprisonment, torture...and death.

*Some parts of this synopsis were taken from www.CelineKiernan.com
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1) How did "The Call" happen for you?

I actually don't remember too much about getting The Call regarding being published, believe it or not! I think I might have blown a few brain cells with the joy of it. But I clearly remember my agent's first call. I had received an e-mail from her to say that she was reading the ms for the Poison Throne whilst on holiday, and that she would like to ring me when she came back. She gave me a time and a date, and I spent the next week frantically spinning in place. On the day of the actual call, I spent the entire waiting period compulsively dusting and polishing ( I don’t think my kitchen has ever been cleaner! A state so rare that I think it tore a hole in the fabric of time and space.)

She called. We clicked immediately. She is just the most wonderful, warm, honest and tough woman you can meet. At the time, I didn't think she was calling to offer representation, because she doesn't rep in my genre at all. I thought she was ringing to give me some advice on how to present the project and perhaps offer contact names in YA oriented agencies. I was wrong. She loved the book, and despite not repping YA, she took me on! Seriously the most fortuitous moment in my life. She thought the book would be a very hard sell, though, as it is quite dark and complex, and warned me that we might have no bites for a year or so. She had contacts in the children's book world, and though she felt they would not publish The Poison Throne because it was too dark for their catalogue, she asked could she show it to them for advice. I said sure. To her surprise, they loved it so much that they decided to take a chance on it.

That's awesome!! I guess it's pretty rare to find an agent willing to represent you when they don't even represent your genre. She must really be behind your book 100%!!!!!

2) Since you seem to have blacked out on the day you received your publishing news (I think we may be able to associate that with over the moon euphoria) tell us how you feel about your publishing house. Are they what you were looking for in a "publishing partner"?

Like I said, I think I blew a few braincells that day because I have no memory what-so-ever of the moment! I'll tell you something, I couldn't have landed myself with a more dedicated publisher. Wow! The O’Brien Press are passionate about books. Every single person working there is so enthusiastic and committed to the industry. I love going to their offices because the atmosphere there is so organic and lively. It reminds me of the small independent animation studios who live and breath their craft - that level of passion, you know? But coupled with an amazing business sense, and great organizational ability. They are just tremendous.

Not only that, they are so enthusiastic about the Poison Throne! It's like the entire company has committed themselves personally to making it a success. I have no illusions about the fact that I've been incredibly lucky to get this amount of commitment. Also the O'Brien Press's international contacts are immense, I was stunned at the speed with which they got international offers for the book.

3)Writing a book, as any writer knows, is NOT an organized process. Characters are sometimes developed on restaraunt napkins and plots are fleshed out in five different notebooks at once...not to mention your computer. How organized is your writing process?

When I'm working on a project I force myself to sit and write at least four pages a day. Regardless of quality. I call it my four pages of s**t. I'll do that, then the next day I'll edit the daylights out of it, before writing the next four pages of s**t which will be edited the next day. I usually polish a chapter until I can take it no further, then hand it over to my amazing beta readers who tell me what works and what doesn't. So, in terms of the actual physical process, I guess you could say I'm very organised. At least prior to the whole publication round-a-bout I was! These days I do nothing but run about like a headless chicken or work on edits. Though I'm enjoying it, I must say I'm looking forward to getting on to writing my next book.

4)What is your planning process? Do you outline or just begin writing?

Usually by the time I get around to writing, the idea has been in its box for so long that it comes out fully fledged plot-wise. Then I throw the characters at it and see what happens. More often then not, the characters surprise me in how they react to things, and that's what makes the writing process interesting. Often I'll get to a point in a story where the characters do something completely unexpected, and I'll realise that what I had been anticipating was how I would have reacted and not how they would react. They're constantly taking me by surprise. It's thrilling when that happens.

I never write plots down. I think it's too much like writing the story and (for me) drains the sense of the unexpected from the writing process. I like to feel as though my story might shock me by running down a secret passage or turning a hidden corner. It's a kind of fake sense of suspense, as I always know where I’m going from word go, but it’s there and it keeps the process alive for me. Which is why I don't analyse stories too much before writing and why it makes me very uncomfortable to discuss stories before they're written.

Mind you, when timelines get complex I will write notes. Like: JoeJoe was born in 18** and so was 10 when Marietta turned into a fish, or, It takes seven days to get from the palace to the picnic. On day five the sandwiches will be stale. Characters must stop for bread. That kind of thing. it stops me panicking about small details and lets me concentrate on the immediate scene.

Writing is definitely half the adventure of the book. Your methods seem to make you just as surprised as your reader!

5) A lot of writers tend to procrastinate on their daily writing. What are your favorite methods of procrastination?

I don't tend to procrastinate when it comes to writing. Maybe writing is me procrastinating about real life? I adore research, though, and I tend to get lost in it, allowing one thing to lead me to another as I get deeper into a subject. This can lead to hours and hours of research as opposed to writing. This is generally a good thing for me. I find it leads to ideas or adds depths to my plot or characters that I might not have considered before. I'm looking forward to the research process on my next book as for the first time I'll be accessing old files in the central library. A very appealing process.

It sounds like you were born for this career!! So, on that note...the final and most important question.

6) How did the idea for "The Poison Throne" come to you?

Hee. I have this thing, this kind of visual in my head? Of a dark room with lots of boxes in it. Each box has a story in it, and they sit there 'til I’m ready to work on them. Inside the box, while they’re waiting for my attention, they percolate, or they grow. Like coffee, or fungus.

Anyway, The MooreHawke trilogy began while on holiday to the South of France, it was a little story about a carpenter’s daughter, a missing prince, a ghost in an avenue and, perhaps, the mention of a talking cat. It was intended as a sun soaked, bright, action adventure type thing. My kids like to tell me that it went into the box a happy, skipping child and shambled out the other end a drooling blood-soaked monster. I suppose they’re not far wrong.

That's fabulous!! I really can't wait to get my hands on a copy!! You better believe I will be recommending it to everyone. Thank you for your time Celine, and good luck on your next book!

"The Poison Throne" is out in stores and online now. I (and probably Celine, as well) would absolutely love to hear what you thought of this fabulous read!! Send your reviews to terra@terrachandler.com and I will post them in future entries.

General SHOW of...err...prizes?

2008-10-29T09:22:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "The Phrase" by Nicholas Megalis

I know I have been shirking my duties as blog hostess, BUT I AM ON VACATION(S)!!! Give me a break! *sigh* Just stop yelling at me in my head....it hurts.

Let's see....what have I been doing? We pardy-hardied (and oddly enough...I thoroughly enjoyed myself!!) on Saturday. We slept and did not much of anything on Sunday. On Monday, we drove to my beloved Santa Barbara and I held Allie hostage in the car while I showed her things like where I bought my groceries when I lived there. We also managed to get lost in the mountains on purpose...sort of. Nice.

Yesterday was brilliant. We found a fabulous store that sold a bunch of robot and other adult artistic toys (get your mind out of the gutter). It was called Wacko, and we spent a good majority of our day there. I spent about $50 on toys. I feel like I may be bringing the economy back to normality one robot at a time. After Wacko, we pretty much came home and got ready to go to a show. Let me just tell you Nicholas Megalis is awesome!! If you haven't heard of him (and you most likely haven't...he's new) you should run over to his myspace and have a listen. The show was at the Knitting Factory. He was a great performer with an absolutely gorgeous (and fun) voice. I own the cd. I shall listen to it again today.

Today.....drum roll please.....THE BONNIE HUNT SHOW!!! I would be lying if I said that I watch her show everyday and am so excited I might pee myself. I am super super excited....but I don't think I have ever seen her show a day in my life. I hope she hands out free stuff. We ended up with VIP tickets b/c the friend that hooked us up has friend on Bonnie's staff. Again, I say "nice....".

Serena, I promise, promise, promise I will tell you all about my wonderful break in the photog business, but I need to iron everything out and make sure it even has a chance of coming together first. I may be working it out tomorrow. I will write a blog specifically dedicated to you. :)

Right then, I am off. I will be sure to start blogging on my editing process just as soon as I start it. Like I said.....vacay....

Must go put my face on! Ta-ta.

I am so lost....on purpose.

2008-10-26T18:11:00.000-07:00

Playing in iTunes: "Silvery Sleds" by Army Navy

Well hello all!! I would just like to say, that I have a very good excuse for not writing last week. I FINISHED MY BOOK!!!! MY BABY!!!! MY LIBRO!!! My pièce de résistance......

She is done....and she is not at all great. lmao. I am so excited to get to the editing part it is ridiculous. Unfortunately, though, I am probably going to have to wait until next week when I am all alone-y on my own-y. I am hoping the editing will be done by January or so.

Just as good-uh news!!! I AM IN CALIFORNIA!!!! Oh the land of my father's, father's, father's, father's, cousin. It truly is home to me. I am spending one week in LA with some friends....WHO NEVER SLEEP!!!!! And then one week in Santa Barbara with my old stoner roommates WHO SLEEP ALL THE TIME!!! Life is good. (Actually, just my roommate's boyfriend was a pothead...but sleeping is definitely looked highly upon in that house.)

I would also like to say, that I may have just made a HUGE breakthrough in my photography career. I don't know. We shall see how it pans out....BUT I CAN'T BELIEVE I DIDN'T THINK OF THIS BEFORE. Allie....we are geniuses...hopefully soon-to-be self-sustaining geniuses.

Be sure to stay tuned. I am definitely back to the multiple daily postings...and tomorrow's Hop-Along Monday is ready and waiting.

See all you little literary monkeys tomorrow!!!

OMG!!!!! I LOVE LOUISE RENNISON!!!

2008-10-17T16:56:00.000-07:00

Playing in iTunes: "99 Luftballons" by Nena

I don't know how many of you guys actually read the Georgia Nicholson series but I am so stoked about the news posted on the author's website!!!

A movie of the first novel (Angus, Thongs and Full Frontal Snogging) is being made! w00t!!!! I am so incredibly excited. It's being directed by Gurinder Chadha who also directed "Bend it Like Beckham"...which is, incidentally, fabulous movie!!

The series is for teens (girls primarily). It is written from the p.o.v. of a fourteen year old girl who hilariously recounts almost every minute of her day with her friends and the guys she loves (i.e. the "sex gods").

I....am excited.

Take it as you will.....

2008-10-17T15:30:00.001-07:00

This image cracked me up!! It is actually a button being sold on Etsy. You can get it here. There are actually some GREAT pro, anti, Obama, McCain, Palin (not so much Bidin) on the website. Just do a search at the top of the page.

Belly Flop Fridays...You forgot didn't you!!

2008-10-17T10:38:00.000-07:00

I think I am looking forward to Fridays more and more. I ran across this video today and thought I would share. :)

It's a banned commercial...sounds like it might be from Sweden? Not sure though.

Glory of the Steampunk

2008-10-14T21:43:00.001-07:00

Playing in iTunes: "Let Go" by Frou Frou

I would like to do an early morning post on the glories that are Steampunk. (I capitalize that word, because I think it deserves it.) In case you are not familiar with this rather thrilling movement, I give you Wikipedia's definition. (Hold on a sec. while I go and look it up.)
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Ah-hem...."Steampunk is a subgenre of fantasy and speculative fiction that came into prominence in the 1980s and early 1990s. The term denotes works set in an era or world where steam power is still widely used—usually the 19th century, and often set in Victorian era England —but with prominent elements of either science fiction or fantasy , such as fictional technological inventions like those found in the works of H. G. Wells and Jules Verne , or real technological developments like the computer occurring at an earlier date."

Wow....that second sentence was hella-long!!! To cut through that crap jargon, Steampunk is bad-ass fiction that takes place in Victorian England and has strong ties to fantasy and sci-fi with a hell of a lot of technology. Mmmmm....purdy.

The image posted is a laptop computer that someone has decked out in the Steampunk style. Can you say FREAKIN' AWESOME!!??

I guess this post could really fall under the "inspiration" category. I would love to write a sci-fi (although really leaning more on the fiction side....think Jack the Ripper meats Willie Wonka) geared towards the Steampunk movement. I've been thinking about it for a while and have jotted down some notes, so we will see what pans out. NO ONE STEAL MY WILLIE WONKA IDEA. I KILL YOU!!

Ladies and gentlemen you are finally able to bask in the glory of the Steampunk. Now, can I just say that I really, really, really want this owl Steampunk necklace?

A Death in the Cookie Family

2008-10-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

Playing in iTunes: Silence in Memory of.......(or a dirge...take your pick)

I was on Supah Cute's blog just seconds ago when I read the news. Mother's Cookies has gone out of business!! Oh...you know them. Do pink and white frosted covered circus animals with sprinkles ring a bell? Yeah...that's them. I think I am going to go and cry now. Anyone wanna join? Check out Supah Cute's blog for a super cute t-shirt in homage to the fabulous company.

A Thought on Jam and Family

2008-10-14T17:18:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "All She Wants to Do is Dance" by Don Henley

So, you know those commercials with the Smuckers boys talking about how they are going to grow up and run the family Jam business? I was thinking the other day (Conor was part of this train of thought process) that their mother is "Mother Smucker".

GAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!

I would have demanded all of the neighborhood children call me mother smucker had I been in her position.

That is all.

No more Peaks and Hop Along Monday!!

2008-10-13T18:53:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Whatever Lola Wants" by Ella Fitzgerald

It's that time again!! (No not THAT time!! Gees...gutter head.) Hop Along Monday!! Today's phrase is, to me, just disgusting. What do you, the average Joe, say whenever if a frustrating glitch "rears its ugly head" during your day? Prime examples might include "Damn" or even "Dang it". Nope....Conor's phrase of choice ladies and gentlemen? "Crap-O'Matic Bubble". And I am so not kidding!! To me (and cover your ears if you are easily disgusted), the words crap and bubble in the same sentence evoke an image of....uh....well...I really don't wanna say because I'm easily disgusted as well. Blech!

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Here's the scenario (completely fictional of course ;): Conor and I are driving towards his parent's house, discussing the evening's dinner, when all of the sudden "Egads!" his phone rings!! It is a text.

"Can you pick up some canned corn at grocery store?" The text is from his mother, but we are already two blocks from their house.

*sigh*

"Crap-O'Matic-Bubble," he says, staring down at the message.

*sigh*
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To me, this just doesn't illustrate the emotion of this mildly frustrating event. Don't you guys worry, though...I think this may be his most disgusting crap phrase...so it shouldn't get too much worse.

THE REAL POST:
Two more chapters to go! Can I get a w00t?

I have a fabulous idea for the second book, which I will start on just as soon as I get finished editing the first. Although, this has recently becoming kind of an interesting debate within my own head. Shall I show you? Ok....take a peak in my brain, but just this once:

"...I am so writing that second book but what if none of the agents think it's saleable and I never even get a good response from an agent should I just start on the second book anyways or maybe I should start working on another book THAT ONE FOR ADULTS maybe it will sell better but then what if the agent does like the first Izzy book and I haven't even started on the second one will she not want to represent me thinking I might not finish and what if I...."

OK.....DONE! No more peaks for you.

Because I can....even though it's not Friday

2008-10-11T06:12:00.000-07:00

Beaker as Ludmeep Meep Meepthoven

Ode To Joy from Beaker on Vimeo.

Holy bueno writing, Batman!!! That was marvelous!!

2008-10-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Cigarettes and Chocolate Milk" by Rufus Wainwright

I have been avoiding writing this particular chapter for almost two weeks now. Really, it was that bad. I think the problem is, I keep getting my heroin stuck in certain precarious circumstances that I don't know how to get her out of. What's odd, though, is that in this case...it was just a simple issue of getting her from one place to another with no money. I had NO idea how I was going to do this.

Today, I decided I needed to just sit down and do it. Just write. It would come. It felt a lot like getting on an elevator only to have a seven year old hit every button between floors one and ten...but I did it. And I'm proud. And it was probably one of my favorite chapters to write once I got going.

The first paragraph looked a bit rough. "The sun was hot. She saw stuff. It was pretty." Yeah....like I said....floors one through ten. *sigh* It picked up speed once I got her on her way, though. And I must say, the cab chase was quite thrilling!! :) Cabbies are fast and really, really mean when you don't pay them!!

(I think Cab Ass'n should stand for Cab Assassin....hence the photo.)

Belly Flop Fridays

2008-10-10T08:11:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Longfellow Serenade" by Neil Diamond (Oh yeah...I broke him out. What?)

"I just called...to say...I love you." Hahahaha.....I just wanted to get that song stuck in your head. I needed to know someone else was in my boat.

Onto the post!! I spend the first hour of my day...everyday...catching up on blogs. Needless to say, I run across some pretty hilarious stuff that I really really really want to share. So, I am instituting Belly Flop Fridays (b/c Belly Flops are funny). The way I figure it, we should all end our weeks on a happy note. So, even if you don't read what I write (which you should be...so shame on you) you should at least check in on Fridays for some hardy laughs.

Knowing myself as well as I do (about as well as I know math, actually) I will be posting a lot on Fridays. :)

For my first post of the day, An Octopus Love Story:

Destroying the Universe and Taco Bell

2008-10-07T18:11:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Bagman's Gambit" by The Decembrists

Hark, what is that I hear? iTunes? It is! It is! That must mean I have my computer back!! :) That's right ladies and gentlemen...I have my computer back and it officially stays on longer than 10 seconds at a time. *sigh* sweet technology.

Alright...I have a question. I was at Taco Bell this evening, which never tastes as good as it sounds...and noticed their new dollar menu. It's called "Why Pay More!". This sign drives me nuts, as it's seems like they should be asking me a question instead of shouting at me! Why doesn't it say "Why Pay More?". Am I not understanding the punctuation? Are they really correct and I'm just a confused English major? I just don't see how this is not a question....and it kind of drives me nuts. THEY HAVE IT PLASTERED EVERYWHERE!!!!!

Alright...that is enough of the Bell. But if you have any answers...please share. I don't know if I am going to be able to sleep tonight. (And no...it isn't the beans.)

Moving on....

Since I have my computer back....I am going to finish my book! :) I am going to write a bit tonight (after this debate is over) and all day tomorrow. My computer WILL remain working, and I WILL start editing next week. EXCITEMENT ABOUND!!!

Oh! Not related to writing....I hate the people who invented the game "Spore" primarily because it does not work with the Powerbook G4's. Bastards. I was really looking forward to raising a cute alien and then destroying the universe. Damn.

This really was a depressing post. I think it's the politics on the tv. It doesn't depress me, it just changes the tone of my thoughts.

Oh!! I voted this week!! I won't get into politics...but I voted for Obama. If you want reasons...too bad. I have them (good one's too...not just Sarah Palin's SNL spoof's) and they are mine. I voted in person with a absentee ballot (I'm going to be in CA for the election). It was fun.

That is all.

Cookies and Cheese

2008-10-06T15:58:00.000-07:00

Playing on my iPod: "Summer of 69" by Bryan Adams

Mmmm....I'm baking (don't say "uh-oh" Conor!!). The recipe is called Double Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies. So, does that mean they are double double the chocolate? or just double the chocolate? (This....is why I don't bake.) Either way, they DO smell delish.

I am kind of going through writing withdraw right now. All of my work is on a little portable hard drive...but I have no computer to view it on. Very depressing. I am only two chapters from the end!!! Why, in the name of Stephen King.....why?

I am thinking about biting the bullet and just writing the rest based off of where I think I left off. I am just worried I will miss something (I've been following pretty hefty notes) or forget to tie up a loose end. I dunno...I think I only have four or five days to wait for my computer. Maybe I will just stick it out.

Ooooo!!! The cookies beeped!! Hold on......

Hmmm.....they look like they may have been a slight waste of time. They seem to be resembling bubbly Jabba the Huts.

Allie, if I ever ask...don't let me behind your bakery's counter. Just turn me away. I am much, much better at buying cookies than making them.

OH!! This little detour reminds me of something! It's Hop-Along Monday!!! Chess...chess it is. Today's phrase is being brought to you by Kraft Cheese. :)

Now, it's very normal for a human being to be surprised. Common phrases used during "said" surprise can range from "Holy S*it!!!" to the more comical "Holy Felony Batman!". One you don't hear often in the English lexicon, however, is "Goodnight Irene". Yes ladies and gentlemen, this is Conor's phrase of choice for surprising moments. You may join me now in a communal headshake.

I'm not really sure what "Goodnight Irene" means. Does it mean that the event was so flabbergasting that you just have to call it a day and hit the sack? Could it possibly be a substitution for a more foul phrase? We may never know. Only the Conor may know for sure.

Still...it's an interesting ponder for the evening...albeit one that won't last long.

That said.....Goodnight!!

P.S. I forgot to take the cookies out of the oven (I decided to let the gooey blobs cook longer) and now they are hard cracked turds. One day I will be a success....at least once....in the kitchen.

My Latest Muse

2008-10-05T18:54:00.001-07:00

Not listening to iTunes...because my computer is dead. In the emergency room. 5-7 days. Writing on hold. Very depressed. On to the post (from my mother's computer):

In case most of you don't know....I am a photographer by trade. How is this relavent to writing, you might ask? Go ahead...ask it. I'll wait.

*waits patiently*

Good question! Let me tell you. I've been thinking recently about creative ways in which I might promote my book, once it gets published. I have heard that it is a good idea to have a clear idea of how the book should be promoted in case an agent shows interest in your work. (Don't worry...I also know not to start the promotion conversation until the appropriate time). I have thought of the usual....bookmarks, posters, postcards, buttons, etc. Then it came to me. What do all of these mediums need? PICTURES!! It just so happens, i'm pretty decent at making those!!

So, I have begun looking for models who might resemble my main characters....and by accident, when I wasn't looking.....I FOUND HER THIS WEEKEND!! MY IZZY!! (She is posted above, in case you are wondering.) The image posted isn't the image I would use...she doesn't exactly look like she is running for her life here, does she? But I think she may just be perfect.

I really don't know how I am going to go about all of this. I don't want to force an image of my characters onto the reader...but at the same time, I think it could be kind of a fun gimmic. Almost like collectible art for a book promo. I dunno. Just an idea. I definitely have time to think about it, that's for sure.

Mac Medication

2008-10-02T11:31:00.000-07:00

Playing on iPod!!! "American Boy" by Estelle

My computer is at the doctor's!!! (This is just a quick post from the Mac Emergency Room.) I'll try to update with an actual post tonight at Conor's. I have a crap-ton to talk about!! (Don't worry...everything was backed up, so no data lost. Just a pain in the ass. Luckily, I think Mac has medication for that.)

Gaaaaaames!!!!!

2008-10-01T18:50:00.000-07:00

Playing in iTunes: "Piano Man" by Billy Joel

My good blogging buddy Georgie B has gone and started a war. :) Nah, he actually is a link in an interesting game for bibliofiles!!! So, I have decided to participate (against my will). I have been asked to write six book related (about me) things on my blog, and tag six other people to do the same. So, without further frivolous writing....

1) Peter Pan is my all time, all time, all time favorite book.....of all time. I AM OBSESSED!!!!!

2) I have worked for various bookstores in their children's section for a little over five years.

3) I am writing my second book! (The first one was absolute crap and is locked away in a swiss vault, due not it's value...but it's humiliation factor).

4) Talking literature and breaking down characters and ripping apart plot lines is, seriously, one of my favorite things to do in life. You have no idea.

5) I actually prefer to see the made into movies first...that way there is nothing to compare it to. The movie could be great....and then the book will be fabulous!! Win, win situation.

6) I have almost as many fashion photography books as I do fiction. (Although my collection of self-improvement is fairly extensive as well.)

Right! Very simple...kinda fun. Who doesn't like to talk about themselves? That's why we're bloggers, right?

Anyways, next comes the fun part. Tagging my poor unsuspecting friends!! SPIN THE BOTTLE IT IS!!!

Alright.....*spinning*........Pink Ink!! (Oh good!! She's playful...she might like this!!)
Again.......*spinning*........Babo!!! (I'll make him do it...he doesn't have a choice...)
My arm is getting tired......*spin*........Serena!!! (Games, games, games. I think Serena likes games.)
Alrighty.......*nudge*..........Christine!!!!! (Look, another post for ya!! Already laid out...)
*sigh*........*poke*...........Allie-Boo!! (You rarely update....so I dunno if the bottle chose wisely.)
OK...one more time....*broke the bottle* (oops)....Janna!! (You guys should check out her blog...she's always interesting!!)

AND THE RULES FOR ALL OF YOU CHALLENGEES!!!

1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on the blog.
3. Write six random bookish things about yourself.
4. Tag sixish people at the end of your post.
5. Let each person know he or she has been tagged.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

Palin, Big News, Nobel and Cute Dog

2008-09-30T20:30:00.000-07:00

I gotta new look. I gotta new look. I gotta new look hey hey hey hey.

I gave my blog a quick make-over in honor of Halloween. Tre fun...I must say.

I might as well give you a heads up on tomorrow's blog. It will be political....*sigh* Just a question, though. I am a little confused on a rumor going around about Palin and need you guys to chime in for clarification.

I am also going to talk about our dear friends on the Nobel committee.

And finally, I HAVE SOME BIG NEWS FOR THE BLOG!!! New Wed.'s are coming your way soon...and all you writers will be very excited. (I think.) (I am....but I am the blogger...so I don't know if I count.)

I feel lazy...telling you what I am GOING to blog about and not actually just writing it out now. I think these posts may take a bit of time, though....and my eyelids feel like they have been attached to small exorcise weights (you know...the small rubber kind you carry when you power walk). Anyways, off to catch some of those most-likely elusive zzzzzzzz's.

p.s. No, that is not my dog...I just thought he represented my current "fatigued" state. :)

Because it's hilarious when your not on the recieving end....

2008-09-30T11:31:00.000-07:00

Crazy Man!!! - video powered by Metacafe

Damn Good Tunes

2008-09-30T08:12:00.001-07:00

If you haven't noticed, at the top of every post I do there is "Playing in iTunes". I usually have it on random, so what comes up is....well....eclectic. (I usually skip Elvis and Neil Diamond for your pleasure....I happen to be a fan.) Since it is the last day of the month, I thought I would recap the listening library! Some of the stuff in here really is worth listening to. Great, great, great indie rock.

To Begin!!

Incubus "Make Yourself"
Muse "Knights of Cydonia"
Built to Spill "Fly Around My Pretty Little Miss"
U2 "All I Want is You"
Loudermilk "Mai"
The Pixies "Where is My Mind?"
Kerli "The Creationist"
Lenka "The Show" (only the cutest song ever!!!)
Nada Surf "Your Legs Grow"
The Everly Brothers "Dream" (This song makes me all warm and fuzzy inside.)
Timbaland feat. The Hives "Throw It on Me"
Old 97's "Question" (THIS IS THE SWEETEST MOST ROMANTIC SONG EVER!!!!)
Say Hi to Your Mom "Laundry" (This one is just fun!!)
Jim Sturgess "I've Just Seen a Face" (From the Across the Universe Soundtrack)
Fiona Apple "Criminal"
Ben Kweller "Problems"
Evan Rachel Wood "Blackbird" (From the Across the Universe Soundtrack)

And today's "Playing on iTunes" is........Hootie and the Blowfish "Only Wanna Be With You"
Now THAT's a classic.

Wow....these really are some great songs. I get so excited when they pop up on random!!!

Be sure to tell me what your favs are!! I love donating money to iTunes!!!! ;)

Attention Spans & Motivations

2008-09-29T16:58:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Blackbird" by Evan Rachel Wood

It's "Hop-Along-Monday" people...and you know what that means!! Cheesy-ness abound. Every Monday I will give you a new crap saying that my good friend Conor uses (on almost a daily basis...*sigh*). Today's cheesy saying...drum roll please...."Get over yourself." Now, that doesn't sound THAT crap, but it really depends on the context in which it is said.

Example:

Me: "Oh magoodness that work-out wore me out!"
Conor: "Get over yourself."

or......

Me: "I can't stand it when Suede talks in the third person!!"
Conor: "Get over yourself."

Do you see how this might be even remotely irritating and cheesy after a while? He has been saying this one for a few months now with no end in sight. I may have to hit him.

ON TO THE POST!!

Attention spans.........*goes to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich*.............
Oh crap! I forgot I was blogging. What was I talking about? Oh yeah, attention spans.

I am surprised that in the past two months I have been pretty diligent with my writing schedule. I write for about four hours a day, working to get at least one, if not two chapters written and have refrained from doing too much editing. (Although I am starting to get ancy.) I think I have kept my excitment for this project up, primarily b/c the story kicks ass but also b/c I have really been working to emmerse myself in the story. I have a playlist that I listen to when I am not writing. I watch a lot of movies related to the genre I am writing in. And I read a whole lot of books on writing to keep my motivation up.

QUESTION:
Out of curiosity, how do you guys keep your motivation up for a certain project? If you work on numerous pieces at once, how do you keep your excitment for all of them?

Sweet Debates

2008-09-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

Playing in iTunes: "Problems" by Ben Kweller

Firstly: I have had some requests to read something of what I have been writing, so I thought I might give you a little snippet. Kinda scary for me actually. I already see what I want to re-write in the first paragraph. Oh well, feel free to tell me what you think....or say nothing at all. If it's a negative critique, lemme know!! It's been picked apart already, so not much you can say will piss me off. :) Enjoy! (or don't). OH!! Geocities is weird, so you have to click on the document to enlarge it.

Secondly: I had a brilliant time over at my good friend Allie's house last night. We made a party out of the debate between Obama and McCain, which turned into more of a comedy show than anything else. We began laughing at the different faces Obama made, which in turn made us cackle profusely at McCain's faces. Then, our laughter turned towards the food. Allie had made Backlava (it was to die for) and I kept trying to mess up the name, to which Serena decided it should be called Baracklava!! Well, being the fair non-partisan participant of the evening, I thought McCain should have his own dessert. Serena, being the comic she is, immediately thought up McCaingel Cake. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!! It was so freakin' amusing!!!

On the actual debate (and in seriousness), I thought both senators made some great blows. McCain scored some points in talking about Obama's pork barrel spending and Obama scored points when he tied McCain into the Bush administration (only a million times!!). It was obvious that both performed pretty well, but neither was the clear winner. It will be interesting to see if the final debate gives one party or other the leverage they need to pull firmly ahead. I just can't believe the election is only a little over a month away!!

Fluff n' Stuff

2008-09-26T08:26:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Criminal" by Fiona Apple

I am COMPLETELY at a loss for what to write about this morning. No, really. For once, I have nothing to say.

*crickets.....chirping*

Maybe if I eat something first!! Hold on....twiddle your thumbs or something....
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Ok...I'm back. Had a samich.

I've got it!!! I shall discuss really bad time killers. :) Great segue, huh?

My goal for "Bulletproof ID" is to write as tight of a script as possible. As little fluff as possible. I hate fluff. Why does it have to be in books? Do authors think we want to read it? Does it serve some purpose?

I have two quotes to nail home my point. Kurt Vonnegut said "Every sentence should either be character development or moving the plot forward. Cut the rest."

Makes sense!! That is actually going to be the core of my editing process...and to be honest, I pray to Stephen King (reference to a previous post by Bookshelf Muse) that I actually have some book left and not just a great story!!

My second quote is by Dan Brown: "Writing an informative yet compact thriller is a lot like making maple sugar candy. You have to tap hundreds of trees…boil vats and vats of raw sap…evaporate the water…and keep boiling until you've distilled a tiny nugget that encapsulates the essence. Of course, this requires liberal use of the DELETE key."

If you have ever read the Da Vinci Code, you will know what he is talking about. The man has NO FLUFF ON ANY PAGE!!! It's amazing!! I think that is why it was such a page turner. His chapters ended and began with hooks, as did the scenes within the each chapter.

So, I am off to write the next page turning kick ass, no fluff novel!!!

***I would just like to let everyone that I know I should feel bad posting that image, since I do have a Bichon of my own....but she is shaved right now, so no fluff.

Since the Question has been asked.....

2008-09-25T15:28:00.000-07:00

Playing on the TV: Spongebob Squarepants

On my last post, Georgie B asked me what my book was about. I started to answer his kind question in the comments section, but it quickly turned into another post in and of itself....so here is that post! :) I just copied and pasted from the email....

"Hahaha... sure Georgie! I've been a YA avid, avid, avid reader for a long time, and my family finally talked me into putting one of my ideas into a book. It's proving quite a challenge, but I'm working diligently on it every single day. (I'm really proud of that fact.) Actually, I am enjoying the hell out of it. My goal is to write a Bourne type series for young adults. My main character finds out, in the first chapter, that her parents are hiding secrets (yes, yes...kind of cliche spy type secrets.) But wait!! they are not the secrets you think!! They get taken by the "enemy" and only Izzy (my teenage protagonist) can save them. Along the way, after meeting up with an incredibly attractive guy, she finds out that EVERYTHING she has ever thought about her life and her parent's life was wrong (including the cliche spy thing). She has to infiltrate two very secretive and dangerous organizations (no...not secret societies), save her parents, deal with romance, and deal with the moral dilemmas that her parents have now forced her to face.

Whew!!! That was a mouthful. I tried not to give anything majorly away....but that is the general gist of the storyline. There are steamy (but no adult sexual stuff) scenes, along with some car chase scenes, foot chase scenes, stuff exploding, and some Ah-ha! moments. I am thinking I will be finished by the end of this week, if not the beginning of next. Then, it is time for editing. I can already tell that is going to be even more time consuming. I am kinda anxious to get to it, though to see how polished it will be.

Right, now that I have written you a book just in this email.....

Thanks for the question!! Makes me feel proud to answer...."

So, that is basically what my book is about. It is the only time of the day that I allow myself any bit of seriousness. :) Otherwise, nothing but mayhem, anarchy....AND TAKING OVER THE WORLD!!! MUAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!

YA Signed Book Auction for a Great Cause

2008-09-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "I've Just Seen a Face" sung by Jim Sturgess (mmm....sexy)

Writer's Unboxed blogged today about a very worthy cause.The Brightspirit Relief Fund. It's probably best if you read about it on the website, but rest assured many of you WILL see yourselfs in this little girl. Be sure to flip through all of the wonderful signed books including Rick Riordan and Erin Hunter!!! There really are some magnificent items and they benefit a wide variety of causes!!

On an extremely exiting note....I'M GOING TO SANTA BARBARA, CA FOR ALMOST TWO WEEKS!!! Oh, home. I am going to cry and kiss the ground when I get there. I'm tellin' you guys, when I get the funds, do NOT be surprised when I pick and move back to the west coast. *sigh*
It is purely for vacation. I am going with a friend of mine and we are going wine tasting, burger eating (The Habit....oh yeah!!), and beach combing. :) I'm so cited!!!!**

Update on the book: I am on Chapter 17 still, since I didn't work last night. It's hard on Wednsdays with ANTM, Project Runway, Top Design, and Ghost Hunters!! Give a girl a breather, for God's sake!! So, I have to catch up today. After I stop procrastinating on my blog, I am going to get to work. It's a perfect rainy day for it. I still think it will be finished by Sat. It is just going to take a crap-ton of work.

**Yes Conor, I am fully aware that you are going to Florida.

Biggest News in Movies EVER!!!

2008-09-25T09:22:00.000-07:00

AHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! (I've been doing that a lot lately.) BIGGEST NEWS IN UPCOMING MOVIES E-VER!!!!!!!

Johnny Depp is going to be in Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland as the Mad Hatter. Oh lawd, that's going to be awesome!!!!!! I'm getting heart palpitations just thinking about it!! I just read the news off of Swivet's blog, and thought I would pass it along. I'm going to go take a look at the imdb

(Don't worry...I'm working my way towards a sane post.)

:)
Terra

Vonnegut Tips on Fiction

2008-09-24T20:31:00.000-07:00

On iTunes: Nothing b/c I'm watching Ghost Hunters on SciFi

This is a short video of Kurt Vonnegut's tips for writing great fiction. It was informative and even a bit inspirational!!!

The Brilliance of Me

2008-09-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

Playing in iTunes: "Laundry" by Say Hi to Your Mom

I almost didn't have anything to write about today *gasp* but last night, I finished an absolutely genius scene!! I accidentally introduced a character that brought everything together, while at the same time causing, even me, to go "Nuh, uh!!!" It was brilliant....

At least, I hope it was brilliant. Oh god. What if I just hinged my entire book on a character that I haven't previously developed!!?? What if I go back and read the book and realize it doesn't make any sense because I forgot one crucial plot line??!! WHAT IF MY READERS READ THIS AND THINK IT ABSOLUTELY BORING AND UNORIGINAL!!?? WHAT IF IT'S BEEN DONE BEFORE??????!!!!!!!!! AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Terra? Put down the computer...."
"Who are you!?"
"Ummm.....your inner writer."
"Oh good! Do you think the scene was brilliant?"
"Most definitely."
"Whew."

*silence*

Right. Sorry about that.

Presenting..When Hell Freezes Over...

2008-09-23T10:03:00.000-07:00

http://view.break.com/487339 - Watch more free videos

Books n' Stuff

2008-09-23T08:38:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Question" by Old 97's (This, btw, only the most romantic two minute song you will ever hear in your life!!)

I just finished a brilliant NF book that every writer should give a once over. "The First Five Pages" by Noah Lukeman tells you, not what you should do to get published, but exactly what you shouldn't do....and in order of importance!! It is, basically a detailed checklist of everything an author should avoid if he or she is seeking publication. I know, I know...you're going to say how there are tons of books out there who already do this. Let me tell you, though...Mr.Lukeman does it with flare!!! It was entertaining from beginning to end. I had to restrain myself from jumping from my lounging position to begin editing right away.

Honestly, I couldn't recommend this book any more!! It is brilliant and entertaining and most definitely got me motivated even more, to get in print. GO GET THIS BOOK, NOW!!!! You really won't regret it. Amazon let's you take a peak inside (follow the link in the first paragraph), and has used copies! Check it out.

*It should also be noted that everything he suggests writers do, should be applied to the entire manuscript and not just the first five pages. I don't think agents would be too; chapter pleased to find a magnificent partial....followed by a full manuscript in which the author can't seem to use the right "there" after chapter three.

__________________

Also you guys should check out the Debs for two reasons!!

1) They really do have some awesome posts. Check out their recent discussions on "THE CALL"!! Very inspiring, and funny in some cases!!

2) THEY ARE GIVING AWAY FREE STUFF!!! (Follow the link for the post.)

Hop-Along-Mondays

2008-09-22T14:21:00.001-07:00

Playing in iTunes: "Throw it On Me" by Timbaland feat. The Hives

"Chill out, hop along!!" - Yes, this was actually said to me in all seriousness. Oh, Conor........ *shakes head*

Cheesy title yeah? It just so happens to be the topic for this post!! A friend of mine, who goes by the name of Conor, is notoriously cheesy with sayings. So, on the way to the gym today I told him I was going to enforce "Hop-Along-Mondays". Every Monday, I will give you a saying "straight from the horses mouth" and you can decide how terribly cheesy it is.

"What does this have to do with writing?" you ask. Well, one of the characters is loosely based on this friend of mine (sort of Izzy's Ron-Stoppable) and a few of these phrases may be making their way into book one!! Should be fun to spot, nonetheless. Feel free to comment with some of your own notoriously geeky phrases!! They may just make it into the books!!

Geekily yours,
Terra

P.S. Yes Conor...I have linked to you, so now you have to update!!!!

What's Your Dream Sequence?

2008-09-22T07:44:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Dream" by The Everly Brothers (ok...so this song didn't come on randomly, but it fits!!!)

Yesterday I posted my perfect dream sequence of the publishing world. You know, which agent I wanted to call me, what THE CALL would sound like, what the advance would sound like....what the book would feel like....*sigh*

Anways...now I'm curious, what are your perfect dream publishing sequences!! If you've already had your book published, then I'm curious how your dream differed from your reality. Was your reality better than your dream, or was it a bit of a wake up call?

As always,
Terra

Gmail People Are Geniuses!!

2008-09-21T18:56:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Your Legs Grow" by Nada Surf

I must shout out towards the fabulousness of Gmail. I have had an account with them for almost four years, and have never really noticed any abnormal greatness.....and then they added "Reader".

In a nut shell, this program takes any blog and puts in one place, just a click away from your in-box. It lets you know when someone has uploaded and allows you to read them either by blog or by date. Marvelous!!

I know there are other programs that do roughly the same thing (Technorati and such)...but there is more to this fabulous system!!! They allow you to display your shared bits of news from other blogs with the world. So, if Mrs. Rowling posts a bit of wisdom to her blog that would like to share with your thousands of readers, you simply click the "share" button, and your followers get to see the info as well!!! I am in love with this, as I can see what I need to in one place without hunting.

If you are curious to see how it works, just head over to Gmail to check it out. If you are curious to the "shared" action at work, just take a look at the white box near the top entry.

Until next time!!!

Why I can't sleep at night.....

2008-09-21T10:08:00.000-07:00

On iTunes: "The Show" by Lenka

The one thing my friends and family (as well as the teachers in elementary school...and math class) have always said is that I am too much of a dreamer. I am not realistic...yadda, yadda, yadda. I may not be, but I've got dreams, damn it!!

My current dream is that I will work like a dog for the next three months (not a dream...I will be working for the next three months), I will have a perfect manuscript that everyone raves about and the perfect query letter that will catch an agents attention. I get a call from Jodi Reamer within the month saying she has read my first three chapters and is very impressed and wants to see more. Within a month of sending her my full, she wants to sign me!! (After a few revisions of course.)

After months of revisions and pushing, I get "THE CALL" saying a huge publishing house wants to buy my first novel.....and subsidiaries and movie rights are being discussed!!!

This......is why I don't sleep at night. I am fully aware that this is the ultimate dream, and most likely things will be significantly different. I am going for Jodi Reamer first, though. I've loved almost every book she's agented. "The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things" by Carolyn Mackler was HILARIOUS!!!!

Anyways, that is my dream...and I'm stickin' to it. :)

Bastard Friends

2008-09-20T18:17:00.001-07:00

Playing in iTunes: "Creationist" by Kerli

This write-in is only halfway working!!! How can I be expected to write five whole chapters when being tempted with french horns and burgers!!??? How, I ask???!!!

(I have made it to Chapter 13, though. Two more to meet my goal of 15 by tomorrow!!)

In up news, I have, most definitely, made my way, way way past the point of writer's block. Chapter ten looks a bit like the toilet paper roll if left to my Bichon, but that is for edits at a later time. :)

WHERE IS MY MIND!!???

2008-09-20T08:20:00.001-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Where Is My Mind" by The Pixies

I am having a write-in!!! This book is going down in a blaze!!! I am halfway through and wondering how long it will take to get through the next eleven chapters. I think I can actually finish this week. It takes me an hour to write a half a chapter. So, between today and tomorrow, I bet I can get to chapter fifteen...and finish by Friday. EDITING HERE I COME!!!

On another note (still related to minds) I hate it when my subconscience talks to me. For instance, I am sitting in the bathtub with the incredibly scalding-hot water, trying to determine the solution to a problem my heroin has gotten herself into when EGADS!! I have solved it!!! Then, a little part of my brain which likes to play games says in echo "EGADS!! I THINK YOU'VE SOLVED IT!!" to which the larger part of my brain goes "YES!! I THINK I HAVE!! I...NO WAIT....I LOST IT!!! BRAIN! YOU BASTARD!!" *sigh* That, unfortunately, is an actual re-enactment of a scene from two days ago. I am still struggling with that chapter...

Like I said, though......THE BOOK IS GOING DOWN IN A BLAZE OF GLORY......THIS WEEK!!!!!

(Apparently, I have had an attack of the capital letters.)

Yours (annoyed) as usual,
Terra

The Art of the Blog

2008-09-18T14:04:00.001-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Mai" by Loudermilk

So, I have been flipping through other writer's and agent's blogs (Courtney Summers, Ally Carter, and Jennifer Lynn Barnes) and I've noticed a trend. There seems to be a certain writing style that is adopted soul-ly for the blog. I've read through my past posts and determined that I DO NOT have this je ne se qua. My blog comes out completely different than my writing....more like my actual thoughts which will, very shortly, start to get kind of scary if I don't start sleeping.

I dunno, maybe I need to look at blogging like writing a novel. Edit, edit, edit? My God!!!! Is there any online real estate without a spell checker?? *sigh* I am thinking perhaps I should go back and scrap the first blog....

(That is a joke, people.)

I guess it makes sense, though. You can still come off crazy, but it's best if you come off as a professional crazy. I am going to have to start a mental check list.

1. Crazy as a duck in a shooting gallery √
2. Professional √
3. Professional Crazy Ducky - On the "To Do" list.

Ah well. I'll figure it out eventually. On to more interesting things!!

I HAVE MADE IT TO SECOND BASE WITH IZZY!!!!! - or in more literal terms...the halfway point of the book. What makes it so interesting is that I haven't had any issues with writers block until now. I swear to God this is so frustrating!! I know exactly what needs to happen next, but am not sure how to get her there. *sigh...again*

I hope to have the tenth chapter done by tonight. The Eleventh Chapter is "Romance, Romance, Romance" - a working title. ;)

On a side note....for all of those readers (those I don't have yet) who are just gripping the edge of their seats to read my work, I am going to be looking for some Beta Readers. The editing should be finished around Christmas/January and I need some unbiased views on the work. Let me know if you might be interested!!

Until tomorrow...when I may be blogging a bit tipsy (wine tasting week).

Terra

The Perfect Music

2008-09-16T13:45:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes (but only because I am not writing my book!!) "All I Want Is You" by U2

When I first began this silly adventure called "writing a book", I usually wrote in silence. This....was not a wise decision. My first couple of chapters came out well written, but with no emotion. So, I started listing to some of my favorite, more emotional music. You know...Muse, Incubus, the Mars Volta, Coheed and Cambria...that sort of thing. These guys make me want to cry, throw things, and make love at the same time. Herein lies the problem. I pay more attention to the words than I do to my writing.

So, I have begun downloading music from movies that are similar to my book. I am no best friends with the Bourne soundtracks. They're beautiful and really help me feel the strong emotions I need to write with. Methinks those first few chapters are going to need a re-write. (Not that the whole book doesn't need that anyways.

Anyways...it was definitely a wise move on my part. I will listen to Muse in the car while I think, and the brilliant John Powell while I write. :)

Every Word Counts...and I'm pissed off.

2008-09-15T11:30:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Fly Around My Petty Little Miss" by Built to Spill

When I first got the idea for this book months ago I had a few really really really great scenes in my head that I just wanted to get on paper. I hadn't considered all of the scenes in between the juicy ones. It is a well known fact, that a five chapter book is hard to publish. So...I have spent the last month really fleshing out the action and getting the characters to come alive (amidst blowing things up and some really great romance scenes). I think it is coming along nicely, if I do say so myself....and I do. Although, I did run into a tough spot this week. Izzy was trapped....in a janitor's closet, and I had no idea how to get her out. Fear not....she escaped. But it was close. It took a couple of days writing that scene to really pull her through.

That actually brings me to my writing style. I was reading a post from a fellow writer today in which he said "If you can't write everyday, then you don't want to be a writer." Now, that comment made me pissed. I mean, who is to say that we should write exactly like each other. Some writers take years to get one book out!! I write almost everyday because I have the time, and quite frankly, I feel terrible if I don't...but that doesn't mean Mary Jane isn't a writer because she can only fit in one hour a week!! (Sorry...tangent over.)

Since I write everyday, I have found that a lot of what comes out of my pen (fingers? since I type) is garbage. So, I have come to look at what I have written so far as the bare bones of the my book. I am only on chapter two editing wise but by the time the manuscript has been through twenty billion revisions, it will be nice and polished...I hope.

Anyways, join me next time where I will....talk more about whatever is bouncing around like a super bouncy ball in my brain.

"Nice alliteration, Terra!"
"Why thank you!"

Chapter Length

2008-09-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

Playing on iTunes right now: "Knights of Cydonia" by Muse

As I write this book, I am trying to figure out what the ideal chapter length is. I understand that not all young adults are bibliofiles, so most get a little ancy in their pantsy wondering when the next chapter will start. Right now, my chapter's are running about 10-12 pages long. I have them broken up into scenes which are about 4 to 5 pages long. That wouldn't seem so bad, except when you make each scene an individual chapter, I am already on Chapter 14. I still have a lot to say!! And that count means that the book will be about 40-50 chapters long. Even I know that is a bit much. I was hoping for around 25. *sigh* I hate math. I will eventually figure it out. I think I am aiming for a page count of about 300. I am on page 67 right now. If I keep on with my chapters the way I am, I am going to have a 21 chapter book.

Wait....that's not bad. Oh good! My math was, apparently, slightly off. I guess I just needed to have it in writing. See the wonders of "the word"? It makes sense of everything, even arithmetic. :)

Right, I am on to Chapter 7: Scene 1 tomorrow night. I think I need to start setting an entire day aside for editing. I only have one chapter fully edited (not counting the final thousand edits before it is sent to the agency), so it seems I have a lot to do. On that note, I better get to work...or sleep, I haven't decided yet. Wish me luck on both!!

First Posts are Weird

2008-09-10T19:44:00.001-07:00

Playing on iTunes: "Make Yourself" by Incubus

Yeah...they are. I never know what to say in a first post. I feel like I should introduce myself, but in a first post, who do you introduce yourself to? Yourself?

"Hi me, nice to meetcha. Perhaps this will result in a deep friendship....with me. Hopefully nothing more, though...as that is not what I am looking for right now." :)

Alright, might as well get it over with. The blog is to go along with my new website, as well as to document how my foray into the book writing world is progressing. I have been a fashion photographer going on five years, but I have been madly, madly, madly, truly madly in love with children's and YA books since the age of 5 (Amelia Bedelia, people!!....yeah, she still makes me laugh). Actually, I love books in general. I will read anything with words (which would be hard to do otherwise, unless we are talking about palms....but I can't do that anyways). I guess if you love to read, you just love the written word and sometimes that progresses into writing the actual words! That, ladies and gentleman, is what has happened to me. I began writing a decent horror, was asked to write a short story, and eventually began to write my book on Izzy Dagney.

Shall I introduce you to Izzy? I think I shall. Izzy is a 16 year old social recluse with just one friend, and she is currently being written into a high action, incredibly hormonoly imbalanced action novel. She probably doesn't deserve it, but the audience does. Don't worry, though....she gets the really hot guy in exchange for her pains.

Book one "Bulletproof Izzy" (that's a working title) is currently being written. I am on Chapter Five, and let me just tell you, Izzy is one smart cookie. She thinks of things I never could in her situation. The few people that have had the chance to read the manuscript have given me incredibly enthusiastic responses, which, let me tell you, is great for the confidence.

On this blog, I am going to avoid any spoilers, but will keep you informed on my writing process and any exciting developments in the publishing process. The book is scheduled to be finished in mid October, and will be sent out to publishers around December. I want to make sure they are only getting my most polished work. Feel free to ask any questions about my process, I am more than happy to share, as well as any questions about my characters and story line!! I will tell you as much as I can without spoiling it for the rest.

I look forward to hearing from anyone who happens to stumble across this page!!