This whole "learning-to-be-a-writer" thing has ruined books and magazines for me. I see and read everything differently. And I notice the stupid things that people print on magazine covers:
"Kate's Private Hell": Um...how can anything be 'private' if it's a headline?
(Commenting on her divorce) "I Feel Like I Failed": Um...you're getting a divorce. Marriage? Failed!
There were a few others today (as I waited in line at Meijer...forever) but those are the two that jumped out. I might not have noticed them a month ago...now my brain has been branded.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Good-bye Winter Blues
Finally, finally it's summer!
The thermometer has pushed past 70 degrees. The sun shines. The breeze keeps perspiration at bay. And I can finally pack up my hats and boots.
This past summer nearly killed me. Not physically, but emotionally and mentally. I don't think it's typical for husbands to hug their wives and TELL THEM to leave the state. I was so miserable that I could stop crying, which made me angry, which made me yell, which led to more crying...I was a wreck.
Thank God for sisters with frequent flyer miles.
But now, finally I'm comfortable in flip-flops! I'm wearing a sundress! I can leave the house with less than four layers of clothing and not worry about my hands freezing to the steering wheel - woo hoo!!
I've waited five longs months for this day.
And now that it's here, I'm stuck at my computer?? I don't think so! I have a few more things to type up, but then I'm outta here!! I've got a back full of books and a bottle of water...there's a beach with my name on it folks!
Happy, happy summer!!!!
The thermometer has pushed past 70 degrees. The sun shines. The breeze keeps perspiration at bay. And I can finally pack up my hats and boots.
This past summer nearly killed me. Not physically, but emotionally and mentally. I don't think it's typical for husbands to hug their wives and TELL THEM to leave the state. I was so miserable that I could stop crying, which made me angry, which made me yell, which led to more crying...I was a wreck.
Thank God for sisters with frequent flyer miles.
But now, finally I'm comfortable in flip-flops! I'm wearing a sundress! I can leave the house with less than four layers of clothing and not worry about my hands freezing to the steering wheel - woo hoo!!
I've waited five longs months for this day.
And now that it's here, I'm stuck at my computer?? I don't think so! I have a few more things to type up, but then I'm outta here!! I've got a back full of books and a bottle of water...there's a beach with my name on it folks!
Happy, happy summer!!!!
Sunday, June 21, 2009
The Newest Addiction
Canada Dry Ginger Ale with Green Tea - whew!
My sister picked some of this up on sale the when I was visiting. It didn't last long. It's not too sweet and the tea gives it a truly refreshing zing. Ah!
I've been telling Matt about it for a while and it was finally on sale today! We bought a 5 qt. pail of vanilla ice cream last week for root beer floats and he decided today to buy some ginger ale for floats too. I convinced him to pick up some with green tea and we went home. He had a ginger ale float. I had a baby one with green tea (4 oz, tops).
Fast forward five hours and I returned from the baseball game. I'm running around the kitchen and pick up the two liters to move them. Over HALF of the GA with GT is gone!! I looked a Matt.
His eyes turned into saucers. "I think you're gonna need to buy some more of that this week."
Another convert.
On a similar (but different) note, we also tried the Pepsi Throwback - made with sugar (not high fructose corn syrup). Another round of thumbs up. Once again, it's not as sweet at the regular Pepsi. Granted we don't drink a whole lot of soda anyway, but when we do Matt and I usually have to split a can (yes, a can) because it's too sweet to handle.
So there you have it folks: two sweet, but not too sweet, soda alternatives.
Enjoy!
My sister picked some of this up on sale the when I was visiting. It didn't last long. It's not too sweet and the tea gives it a truly refreshing zing. Ah!
I've been telling Matt about it for a while and it was finally on sale today! We bought a 5 qt. pail of vanilla ice cream last week for root beer floats and he decided today to buy some ginger ale for floats too. I convinced him to pick up some with green tea and we went home. He had a ginger ale float. I had a baby one with green tea (4 oz, tops).
Fast forward five hours and I returned from the baseball game. I'm running around the kitchen and pick up the two liters to move them. Over HALF of the GA with GT is gone!! I looked a Matt.
His eyes turned into saucers. "I think you're gonna need to buy some more of that this week."
Another convert.
On a similar (but different) note, we also tried the Pepsi Throwback - made with sugar (not high fructose corn syrup). Another round of thumbs up. Once again, it's not as sweet at the regular Pepsi. Granted we don't drink a whole lot of soda anyway, but when we do Matt and I usually have to split a can (yes, a can) because it's too sweet to handle.
So there you have it folks: two sweet, but not too sweet, soda alternatives.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Civic Duty Served
Hey y'all! I'm back from the court house. What an interesting couple of days!
I didn't really want to be on the jury. Who wants to say 'yes, you're guilty' or 'sorry, this isn't the person who violated you, please try again'? Okay, fine...it didn't really bother me to say that. But it is intimidating to know that you will directly effect someone's future. I mean, what if both sides presented their cases and I still didn't know? What if I was the person who hung the jury? That's a lot of pressure.
On the other side of the coin, however, was my desire to know how it really works. To read most of my observations, please go here. Most of my curiosity stems from being a writer and wanted to someday be able to accurately represent what happens in a court room. Let's be honest, we know that TV shows are just that - they're shows. But even though we know real people don't look like those actors, and even though we know the actors have scripts are are performing, people still believe a court runs like Law & Order and we get evidence the way they do on CSI.
Sorry folks. Didn't happen.
But I like knowing that! I like knowing that someday I can write a story about a young court reporter who falls in love with the handsome court officer (no bailiff), or catches the eye of Juror #8 (in the front row). I like knowing that I can tell the story of the cramped jury room with the tall windows and gourmet donuts (Potters...yummy). I have a whole new arsenal of info here, folks!
And most importantly I played my part. Though I try to be sympathetic to most people (I'm not always good at that), I have no place for uninvolved whiners who complain without ever taking action (if you didn't vote, I'm pointing at you). Now I could have come up with excuses to get off the jury. I could have said any number of true things that might have dismissed me (I'm a Christian), but I also could have lied. Certain things would have gotten me booted. But would I want that on a jury if I ever had to go to trial? Would I want to know that an intelligent, educated, mostly-sane (though overly dramatic) woman just didn't want to be bothered? That's not really fair to the defendant or the plaintiff, so I stuck it out.
I'm not sure how long my name stays in the pool now. And I'm not sure what this means for my future. You see my hubby has never even received the questionnaire to fill out, and I've gotten it four times since I turned eighteen. And then our jury consisted of two people who had already each served on two juries - this was their third! Kinda seems like someone people get it and others don't.
Shrug. That's okay with me. I'd rather go and let my sugar daddy take care of the bacon for me. I can take the time off (oh wait! I'm on summer vaca...that's right).
Okay, I've rambled enough.
In case any of you are curious we had to decide two matters: Utter & Publishing and Larceny in a Building. We found her guilty on the U&P and not guilty on the larceny.
I didn't really want to be on the jury. Who wants to say 'yes, you're guilty' or 'sorry, this isn't the person who violated you, please try again'? Okay, fine...it didn't really bother me to say that. But it is intimidating to know that you will directly effect someone's future. I mean, what if both sides presented their cases and I still didn't know? What if I was the person who hung the jury? That's a lot of pressure.
On the other side of the coin, however, was my desire to know how it really works. To read most of my observations, please go here. Most of my curiosity stems from being a writer and wanted to someday be able to accurately represent what happens in a court room. Let's be honest, we know that TV shows are just that - they're shows. But even though we know real people don't look like those actors, and even though we know the actors have scripts are are performing, people still believe a court runs like Law & Order and we get evidence the way they do on CSI.
Sorry folks. Didn't happen.
But I like knowing that! I like knowing that someday I can write a story about a young court reporter who falls in love with the handsome court officer (no bailiff), or catches the eye of Juror #8 (in the front row). I like knowing that I can tell the story of the cramped jury room with the tall windows and gourmet donuts (Potters...yummy). I have a whole new arsenal of info here, folks!
And most importantly I played my part. Though I try to be sympathetic to most people (I'm not always good at that), I have no place for uninvolved whiners who complain without ever taking action (if you didn't vote, I'm pointing at you). Now I could have come up with excuses to get off the jury. I could have said any number of true things that might have dismissed me (I'm a Christian), but I also could have lied. Certain things would have gotten me booted. But would I want that on a jury if I ever had to go to trial? Would I want to know that an intelligent, educated, mostly-sane (though overly dramatic) woman just didn't want to be bothered? That's not really fair to the defendant or the plaintiff, so I stuck it out.
I'm not sure how long my name stays in the pool now. And I'm not sure what this means for my future. You see my hubby has never even received the questionnaire to fill out, and I've gotten it four times since I turned eighteen. And then our jury consisted of two people who had already each served on two juries - this was their third! Kinda seems like someone people get it and others don't.
Shrug. That's okay with me. I'd rather go and let my sugar daddy take care of the bacon for me. I can take the time off (oh wait! I'm on summer vaca...that's right).
Okay, I've rambled enough.
In case any of you are curious we had to decide two matters: Utter & Publishing and Larceny in a Building. We found her guilty on the U&P and not guilty on the larceny.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
The Golden Child
There is a benefit to being the only VB daughter still within driving distance of my parents. I got to go to my dad's retirement party this week. Apparently everyone was completely fascinated by me and my hubby - they couldn't wait to tell my parents.
Although, it's not TOO surprising. I mean, I did tell everyone that Cam and Shell weren't there because they don't love my dad as much as I do. Do you think that mattered? ;)
Although, it's not TOO surprising. I mean, I did tell everyone that Cam and Shell weren't there because they don't love my dad as much as I do. Do you think that mattered? ;)
Monday, May 18, 2009
Does being young make you better?
Okay, there's a 66 year-old pregnant woman. There's controversy. She's too old. She can't do it. Blah, blah, blah.
Have you noticed that you're a 30-something who can't run a mile, but there are 70-somethings running 10K races?
Why is AGE the issue - it should be health! Are you HEALTHY enough to have children. It angers me that a 20 year-old who eats Doritos and drinks Mountain Dew can have a baby because she's young enough, but if a 60 year-old who exercises, eats well, and is financially secure gets pregnant SHE'S the irresponsible one? What?!?!
Yes, that mother won't get to see her grandchildren, but she'll get to raise a child. But what about the 24 year-old single mother living on welfare and raising her three kids by three different daddies. Who's live will be better? The kid who's mom dies when he's in his early twenties, but has a good, safe home and a college education, or the kid lived in a two-bedroom apartment with his sibs, mom, and "uncles" and will have to go to work after high school because college is too expensive and he has to get job to help raise his sibs.
Yes, I used extremes here to make my point. Not ALL 60 year-old women are like that; neither are all 24 year-old mothers. But THAT is my point. You can't tell ANYTHING about a person by their age - other than when they were born.
And I'm just going to point out THIS sexual inequality - how old was Larry King when his last child was born? If we're going to tell women they can't have babies past a certain age then we damn well better give every man a vasectomy at the same time...we wouldn't want them to grow up without a father.
Let's stop being so superficial folks. Granted I don't want to have a kid when I'm that old, and I'm not really promoting or encouraging it, but just pointing out that saying you're a WOMAN and you're OLD are two really bad reasons to say you aren't qualified to have kids.
Okay, I'm done.
Have you noticed that you're a 30-something who can't run a mile, but there are 70-somethings running 10K races?
Why is AGE the issue - it should be health! Are you HEALTHY enough to have children. It angers me that a 20 year-old who eats Doritos and drinks Mountain Dew can have a baby because she's young enough, but if a 60 year-old who exercises, eats well, and is financially secure gets pregnant SHE'S the irresponsible one? What?!?!
Yes, that mother won't get to see her grandchildren, but she'll get to raise a child. But what about the 24 year-old single mother living on welfare and raising her three kids by three different daddies. Who's live will be better? The kid who's mom dies when he's in his early twenties, but has a good, safe home and a college education, or the kid lived in a two-bedroom apartment with his sibs, mom, and "uncles" and will have to go to work after high school because college is too expensive and he has to get job to help raise his sibs.
Yes, I used extremes here to make my point. Not ALL 60 year-old women are like that; neither are all 24 year-old mothers. But THAT is my point. You can't tell ANYTHING about a person by their age - other than when they were born.
And I'm just going to point out THIS sexual inequality - how old was Larry King when his last child was born? If we're going to tell women they can't have babies past a certain age then we damn well better give every man a vasectomy at the same time...we wouldn't want them to grow up without a father.
Let's stop being so superficial folks. Granted I don't want to have a kid when I'm that old, and I'm not really promoting or encouraging it, but just pointing out that saying you're a WOMAN and you're OLD are two really bad reasons to say you aren't qualified to have kids.
Okay, I'm done.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Bubble Butt: Take Two
I did it again...signed up for Weight Watchers. Why? Because I'm an emotional eater and I can't do this alone.
I did great last summer, then I blew it. I stopped exercising and ate whatever I wanted. Now I feel awful, I look just as bad, and I'm frustrated with myself.
Perhaps the most frustrating thing is the fact that I don't even realize what I'm eating. There are times when I KNOW I'm being bad (hello...pizza and ice cream, it doesn't take a genius). But then there are times when I don't even realize what I'm puting in my mouth. I think, "I did GREAT today", but then I think about everything that I ate: the handful of M&M's at school, the cookie from the bank, popcorn made my hubby (which was cooked in oil and covered it butter). Without even thinking about it I'm shoving that into my face.
This is a real frustration for me. I don't have energy and my clothes are tight. I'm sick of watching my waistline reflect my mood. I really can't keep this up for the rest of my life...it's too frustrating. But I also know that I can't run five times a week an hour each time because that's not realistic for me.
I don't know why I put this up here. I just did. I needed to vent. Sorry.
I did great last summer, then I blew it. I stopped exercising and ate whatever I wanted. Now I feel awful, I look just as bad, and I'm frustrated with myself.
Perhaps the most frustrating thing is the fact that I don't even realize what I'm eating. There are times when I KNOW I'm being bad (hello...pizza and ice cream, it doesn't take a genius). But then there are times when I don't even realize what I'm puting in my mouth. I think, "I did GREAT today", but then I think about everything that I ate: the handful of M&M's at school, the cookie from the bank, popcorn made my hubby (which was cooked in oil and covered it butter). Without even thinking about it I'm shoving that into my face.
This is a real frustration for me. I don't have energy and my clothes are tight. I'm sick of watching my waistline reflect my mood. I really can't keep this up for the rest of my life...it's too frustrating. But I also know that I can't run five times a week an hour each time because that's not realistic for me.
I don't know why I put this up here. I just did. I needed to vent. Sorry.
Saturday, May 09, 2009
My Husband's New Obsession
Beer.
For most of you, this doesn't seem like a big deal, but for anyone who really knows Matt (I'm thinking Jamie here) you'll understand why this is kinda funny.
You see Matt is NOT a drinker. He didn't have the "traditional" college experience. He started his own business when he was 16 yrs. old and worked at that until he closed shop in 2005. When he has free time he grabs a backpack and tent and heads to the woods. Alcohol has never been a temptation or desire.
Then he met me.
If you knew me pre-2001, then you know I used throw down a 6-pack without blinking. Not so much anymore. However, I still enjoy adult beverages. I like to buy a bottle of wine or some beer and finish it over the course of a few months ;) I mean, really - what's a fresh grilled burger without a cold beer, right?
Now that Matt works at the recycle center he sees dozens of kinds of beer bottles/cans every day, and his curiosity is high. We've had some beer before, but usually because I pick it up for some reason. Well that has changed.
A couple of weeks ago Michelob ran a special: buy (4) 6-packs, get a $15 rebate. Matt nearly burst with excitement! We bought all four and sent in for the rebate. The NEXT WEEK he wanted to try another brand...and he's got some ideas for what else he wants to try.
Here's why this doesn't work very well: Matt is a super light-weight. Plus he's not quite used to the beer taste yet, so he drinks about 6 oz. at a time. You heard that right...if he had some beer every night it would take him almost two weeks to kill a 6-pack. And that's IF he has a beer every night...which he doesn't.
So right now I'm holding him at bay and INSISTING that we finish at least 1/2 of the beer that we have before we start getting more. He's chompin' at the bit, but still drinking vveeerrryyy slowwwwwllyyy. I'm not sure what flavor we'll try next, but at this rate we should be ready it sometime toward the end of June.
For most of you, this doesn't seem like a big deal, but for anyone who really knows Matt (I'm thinking Jamie here) you'll understand why this is kinda funny.
You see Matt is NOT a drinker. He didn't have the "traditional" college experience. He started his own business when he was 16 yrs. old and worked at that until he closed shop in 2005. When he has free time he grabs a backpack and tent and heads to the woods. Alcohol has never been a temptation or desire.
Then he met me.
If you knew me pre-2001, then you know I used throw down a 6-pack without blinking. Not so much anymore. However, I still enjoy adult beverages. I like to buy a bottle of wine or some beer and finish it over the course of a few months ;) I mean, really - what's a fresh grilled burger without a cold beer, right?
Now that Matt works at the recycle center he sees dozens of kinds of beer bottles/cans every day, and his curiosity is high. We've had some beer before, but usually because I pick it up for some reason. Well that has changed.
A couple of weeks ago Michelob ran a special: buy (4) 6-packs, get a $15 rebate. Matt nearly burst with excitement! We bought all four and sent in for the rebate. The NEXT WEEK he wanted to try another brand...and he's got some ideas for what else he wants to try.
Here's why this doesn't work very well: Matt is a super light-weight. Plus he's not quite used to the beer taste yet, so he drinks about 6 oz. at a time. You heard that right...if he had some beer every night it would take him almost two weeks to kill a 6-pack. And that's IF he has a beer every night...which he doesn't.
So right now I'm holding him at bay and INSISTING that we finish at least 1/2 of the beer that we have before we start getting more. He's chompin' at the bit, but still drinking vveeerrryyy slowwwwwllyyy. I'm not sure what flavor we'll try next, but at this rate we should be ready it sometime toward the end of June.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Would YOU Believe It?
Catherine Zeta-Jones wants to play Susan Boyle in a movie about Boyle's life. Yeah, cuz when I look at Zeta-Jones I think, "She knows what it's like to be under-appreciated because of her looks. SHE can relate."
[Serious eye-roll here]
[Serious eye-roll here]
Thursday, April 23, 2009
K-mart, how I love thee
Two words: Double coupons.
Saving over 60% on items...stocking up...buying extras to donate. And the best part? Over $56 worth of cat food - $13. Midgie and Bucket are happy kitties :)
Saving over 60% on items...stocking up...buying extras to donate. And the best part? Over $56 worth of cat food - $13. Midgie and Bucket are happy kitties :)
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Too Many Stupid People
I've been reading about illegal guns to/from Mexico. Miss California/Perez Hilton. American Idol. The housing market.
In the past few months I've been making a lot of comments about the things going on in our country, but I've decided to stop. Why?
Because there are too many stupid people getting too much attention.
I'd have to devote my LIFE to sitting here responding to them all. I can't keep up. And if I can't comment on everything I don't want to just comment on a few things. The fact of the matter is that I care about EVERYTHING that happens in my country, but trying to be a voice of reason amongst the hip/cool/stupid is too time consuming. I'd rather enjoy my life then spend it hating and slandering others.
Besides, there's only so much I can do. Being frustrated with that won't help. Doing what I can and then moving on...that's the best I can do.
The days are coming when it will get worse. I'm not being a gloom/doom gal, just pointing out what most Christians should have a suspicion of. Don't get me wrong - I am NOT trying to prophesy or anticipate any coming day or event. I'm just stating a fact - things will get worse until they get horrid. And then...it'll be heaven :)
In the meantime I'll briefly step into the choleric shoes that I infrequently wear and get it all off my chest:
DO YOU REALLY THINK I'M THAT STUPID? I KNOW THAT -4+-4 DOES NOT EQUAL 8, SO DON'T TRY TO TELL ME DEBIT WILL MAKE ME RICH!
DISAGREEING WITH YOUR OPINION DOES NOT MEAN I AM SCARED OR HATE WHAT YOU LIKE - IT JUST MEANS I DISAGREE WITH YOU!
GO AHEAD AND SWEAR - PEOPLE USE SWEAR WORDS BECAUSE THEY'RE TOO STUPID TO USE A DICTIONARY AND FIND A REAL WORD.
I DON'T THINK YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO TELL ME WHAT TO THINK JUST BECAUSE YOU WERE IN A MOVIE! THAT DOESN'T MAKE YOU ANY SMARTER THAN LASSIE!
JUST BECAUSE MY OPINION IS DIFFERENT THAT YOURS DOESN'T MAKE ME AN EXTREMIST! ACTUALLY, THE FACT THAT YOU'D CALL ME AN EXTREMIST JUST BECAUSE WE DISAGREE MAKES YOU THE EXTREMIST...NOT ME!
Is there anything else? Any other recent hot topic that I didn't mention? Oh, yeah...
CFL'S SUCK! WHY ARE WE IN SUCH A HURRY TO PUT TOXIC SUBSTANCES IN ALL OF OUR HOMES?? I'D LIKE TO KNOW HOW MANY CONGRESSMEN OWN STOCK IN PHARMACEUTICALS...THAT MIGHT EXPLAIN IT.
Okay, I'm done now. No more political comments. They tire me.
I need donuts...
In the past few months I've been making a lot of comments about the things going on in our country, but I've decided to stop. Why?
Because there are too many stupid people getting too much attention.
I'd have to devote my LIFE to sitting here responding to them all. I can't keep up. And if I can't comment on everything I don't want to just comment on a few things. The fact of the matter is that I care about EVERYTHING that happens in my country, but trying to be a voice of reason amongst the hip/cool/stupid is too time consuming. I'd rather enjoy my life then spend it hating and slandering others.
Besides, there's only so much I can do. Being frustrated with that won't help. Doing what I can and then moving on...that's the best I can do.
The days are coming when it will get worse. I'm not being a gloom/doom gal, just pointing out what most Christians should have a suspicion of. Don't get me wrong - I am NOT trying to prophesy or anticipate any coming day or event. I'm just stating a fact - things will get worse until they get horrid. And then...it'll be heaven :)
In the meantime I'll briefly step into the choleric shoes that I infrequently wear and get it all off my chest:
DO YOU REALLY THINK I'M THAT STUPID? I KNOW THAT -4+-4 DOES NOT EQUAL 8, SO DON'T TRY TO TELL ME DEBIT WILL MAKE ME RICH!
DISAGREEING WITH YOUR OPINION DOES NOT MEAN I AM SCARED OR HATE WHAT YOU LIKE - IT JUST MEANS I DISAGREE WITH YOU!
GO AHEAD AND SWEAR - PEOPLE USE SWEAR WORDS BECAUSE THEY'RE TOO STUPID TO USE A DICTIONARY AND FIND A REAL WORD.
I DON'T THINK YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO TELL ME WHAT TO THINK JUST BECAUSE YOU WERE IN A MOVIE! THAT DOESN'T MAKE YOU ANY SMARTER THAN LASSIE!
JUST BECAUSE MY OPINION IS DIFFERENT THAT YOURS DOESN'T MAKE ME AN EXTREMIST! ACTUALLY, THE FACT THAT YOU'D CALL ME AN EXTREMIST JUST BECAUSE WE DISAGREE MAKES YOU THE EXTREMIST...NOT ME!
Is there anything else? Any other recent hot topic that I didn't mention? Oh, yeah...
CFL'S SUCK! WHY ARE WE IN SUCH A HURRY TO PUT TOXIC SUBSTANCES IN ALL OF OUR HOMES?? I'D LIKE TO KNOW HOW MANY CONGRESSMEN OWN STOCK IN PHARMACEUTICALS...THAT MIGHT EXPLAIN IT.
Okay, I'm done now. No more political comments. They tire me.
I need donuts...
Friday, April 17, 2009
I got it! Check it out...
...I finally have a theme for my writing blog!
I know, I know...it sounds like it already has a theme (uh...writing), but that is VERY vague. I was never sure if I should offer helpful hints, questions, problems, ideas, samples...there's just SO much involved that I was never sure where to go.
Now I have it.
My writing blog is going to be my on-line journal capturing the madness of my attempt to get a novel published. It could go on for years. Or I could get lucky and end it in 12 months. adkvnowvnovnwejvno (Sorry, I was laughing so hard that I just kind of fell on the keys).
Anyway - that's the plan!
To know how I feel, what I'm thinking, and see how the process works, check it out :) I'd love to have you stop by...
I know, I know...it sounds like it already has a theme (uh...writing), but that is VERY vague. I was never sure if I should offer helpful hints, questions, problems, ideas, samples...there's just SO much involved that I was never sure where to go.
Now I have it.
My writing blog is going to be my on-line journal capturing the madness of my attempt to get a novel published. It could go on for years. Or I could get lucky and end it in 12 months. adkvnowvnovnwejvno (Sorry, I was laughing so hard that I just kind of fell on the keys).
Anyway - that's the plan!
To know how I feel, what I'm thinking, and see how the process works, check it out :) I'd love to have you stop by...
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Finding Spaghetti in a Cookbook
As some of you may know, I'm a writer. Right now I do some freelance work for a small, weekly newspaper. It's not much, but it's a start.
My dream, however, is to publish novels. I've already written a few (which I'm still working on), but I want to see them in print.
As part of this journey, I started attending conferences and submitting to publishers and contests. I also do research on the various publishing houses, just so I know what people want. I mean, I don't want to waste any one's time by sending an 83,000 word novel to a publisher that only prints 10,000 non-fiction.
It was during this research that I found it - one of the most confusing titles I've ever seen: Finding God in "The Shack".
Um...are you serious?
For those of you unfamiliar with The Shack by Wm. Paul Young, it is an amazing story about God, where He is during the hard times in our lives, and His amazing love for us. It would take too long to tell you what a positive effect it had on me, but I'll say this - if you want to believe what the Bible says about God, but you struggle with understanding how there can be evil in the world, pick this up. No book can replace the Bible in it's truth and wisdom, but The Shack can help you relate to it better.
With that said, there is NOTHING about this book that makes God hard to find. The back cover tells you - Mack gets a note, apparently from God. It only takes a couple of chapters for God to appear. I don't want to give anything away, but you'd have to be BLIND to miss God in this book!
And yet some wrote a book on finding God in The Shack? And then someone published it??
What's next? Finding God in The Bible. Finding Spaghetti in a Cookbook. Finding Words in a Book.
Duh. Seriously, I want to published as much as the next person, but I have my limits. Please know that you will never find a book published by me that could have been entitled:
Captain Obvious does it again!
My dream, however, is to publish novels. I've already written a few (which I'm still working on), but I want to see them in print.
As part of this journey, I started attending conferences and submitting to publishers and contests. I also do research on the various publishing houses, just so I know what people want. I mean, I don't want to waste any one's time by sending an 83,000 word novel to a publisher that only prints 10,000 non-fiction.
It was during this research that I found it - one of the most confusing titles I've ever seen: Finding God in "The Shack".
Um...are you serious?
For those of you unfamiliar with The Shack by Wm. Paul Young, it is an amazing story about God, where He is during the hard times in our lives, and His amazing love for us. It would take too long to tell you what a positive effect it had on me, but I'll say this - if you want to believe what the Bible says about God, but you struggle with understanding how there can be evil in the world, pick this up. No book can replace the Bible in it's truth and wisdom, but The Shack can help you relate to it better.
With that said, there is NOTHING about this book that makes God hard to find. The back cover tells you - Mack gets a note, apparently from God. It only takes a couple of chapters for God to appear. I don't want to give anything away, but you'd have to be BLIND to miss God in this book!
And yet some wrote a book on finding God in The Shack? And then someone published it??
What's next? Finding God in The Bible. Finding Spaghetti in a Cookbook. Finding Words in a Book.
Duh. Seriously, I want to published as much as the next person, but I have my limits. Please know that you will never find a book published by me that could have been entitled:
Captain Obvious does it again!
Friday, April 03, 2009
That's Customer Service for You
I'm not the type of person who stays quiet when things happen. If I see something I like, I make it known. When I experience something not-so-hot, I say something, usually to try to fix it. I'm a firm believer that the squeaky wheel gets the oil. Besides, if I did something for someone and they didn't like it, I'd want to know, because chances are good that I was trying to do something nice.
Have I lost you yet? Let me explain.
I've had some problems with the post office. The first was because of a postage situation. I wrote a letter explaining the situation and agreeing to pay for more postage, but the post master took care of it. My packages were mailed and I didn't have to pay extra. Three cheers for the postal dude!
That was pretty easy. This is a small community. People get to know each other, so you can talk to the post master when you need to. I like that about where I live. But what do you do when it's a bigger problem? What if it's not MY post office, but the post office in general? How do you figure out the problem?
Simple - go to the website and contact them (there's a place to express concerns).
Okay, so I'm trying to print postage for a package I want to send. I follow the procedures, but the last two times nothing happens. It just doesn't print anything. Granted I'm not charged for the lack of postage, but there's obviously something wrong. I send a message to the trouble shooters and wait.
Pop quiz: how do you get people to leave you alone? Make communication with you the most annoying thing in the world.
I got an email back from the USPS tech people. Excited, I opened it. POOF. That's the air escaping my lungs as I read the email: [paraphrased for dramatic effect]
We're sorry this isn't working, but I can't help you until you give me the following info:
- what were you trying to print?
- what kind of printer do you have?
- is it a color printer?
- what kind of computer do you have?
- what system do you use?
- how old is your system?
- are you using the factory installed drivers, or did you install your own?
- what color was your paper?
- did you plug the printer into the computer?
Seriously - they sent me about ten questions that needed to be answered about my system before they could help me. But didn't I tell them that I've been able to print postage before? This is a new development, and none of the hardware on my end has changed?
Since I pretty sure my computer ISN'T the problem, and since I'm pretty sure some geeky guy in a cubicle in Virgina doesn't care about my printing problems, I ignored it.
Then came my magazines. I only have two subscriptions. I finally got them in the mail - both of them had the backs ripped off (one had the entire back HALF ripped off). Since they came across country I contacted local and national postal people.
Local post master - concerned, caring. Spoke to me and looked into it for me.
National computer center - [again, paraphrased]
Sorry about your mail. In order to figure out what happened, please give us the following info:
- when was the magazine sent?
- where did it come from?
- how long did it take you to get it?
- what does the label say?
- what's the code on the label?
- is the label white or pink?
- was there enough postage on it?
- did you buy the magazine, or was it a gift?
Once again, I don't think they even read my message. If they did, then they missed the part where the cover was ripped off. You know, the cover - the part with the labels and postage and codes on it??
With all of this said I want to make sure you know that I'm not anti-post office. I like dealing with the locals. I know them. They understand that my two magazines are important to me. I live in TC...it's still snowing here. There's nothing else to do if you don't have your magazines.
But those folks in Virgina...they don't seem to care. And they've made their point. I won't be dealing with them anymore. I will only talk with my local post master. He gets me. He's nice. He really does care about making a good impression, because he lives here, too.
Great big national organizations - they're really losing their appeal.
Have I lost you yet? Let me explain.
I've had some problems with the post office. The first was because of a postage situation. I wrote a letter explaining the situation and agreeing to pay for more postage, but the post master took care of it. My packages were mailed and I didn't have to pay extra. Three cheers for the postal dude!
That was pretty easy. This is a small community. People get to know each other, so you can talk to the post master when you need to. I like that about where I live. But what do you do when it's a bigger problem? What if it's not MY post office, but the post office in general? How do you figure out the problem?
Simple - go to the website and contact them (there's a place to express concerns).
Okay, so I'm trying to print postage for a package I want to send. I follow the procedures, but the last two times nothing happens. It just doesn't print anything. Granted I'm not charged for the lack of postage, but there's obviously something wrong. I send a message to the trouble shooters and wait.
Pop quiz: how do you get people to leave you alone? Make communication with you the most annoying thing in the world.
I got an email back from the USPS tech people. Excited, I opened it. POOF. That's the air escaping my lungs as I read the email: [paraphrased for dramatic effect]
We're sorry this isn't working, but I can't help you until you give me the following info:
- what were you trying to print?
- what kind of printer do you have?
- is it a color printer?
- what kind of computer do you have?
- what system do you use?
- how old is your system?
- are you using the factory installed drivers, or did you install your own?
- what color was your paper?
- did you plug the printer into the computer?
Seriously - they sent me about ten questions that needed to be answered about my system before they could help me. But didn't I tell them that I've been able to print postage before? This is a new development, and none of the hardware on my end has changed?
Since I pretty sure my computer ISN'T the problem, and since I'm pretty sure some geeky guy in a cubicle in Virgina doesn't care about my printing problems, I ignored it.
Then came my magazines. I only have two subscriptions. I finally got them in the mail - both of them had the backs ripped off (one had the entire back HALF ripped off). Since they came across country I contacted local and national postal people.
Local post master - concerned, caring. Spoke to me and looked into it for me.
National computer center - [again, paraphrased]
Sorry about your mail. In order to figure out what happened, please give us the following info:
- when was the magazine sent?
- where did it come from?
- how long did it take you to get it?
- what does the label say?
- what's the code on the label?
- is the label white or pink?
- was there enough postage on it?
- did you buy the magazine, or was it a gift?
Once again, I don't think they even read my message. If they did, then they missed the part where the cover was ripped off. You know, the cover - the part with the labels and postage and codes on it??
With all of this said I want to make sure you know that I'm not anti-post office. I like dealing with the locals. I know them. They understand that my two magazines are important to me. I live in TC...it's still snowing here. There's nothing else to do if you don't have your magazines.
But those folks in Virgina...they don't seem to care. And they've made their point. I won't be dealing with them anymore. I will only talk with my local post master. He gets me. He's nice. He really does care about making a good impression, because he lives here, too.
Great big national organizations - they're really losing their appeal.
Friday, March 27, 2009
March 27th, 2009
I don't really have a topic today. In fact, there's no reason at all for me to write. I just feel like it. It's been a few days since I've posted, so why not.
Spring Break started today. I know that I don't teach full-time, but I'm really looking forward to this week off. I just want to write and work on selling some more articles. I'm determined to make more money as a writer. I just need to get myself going. You know how it is, when there's SO MUCH to do that you just don't know where to start? That's how freelancing has been for me. I've been content with my two little by-lines, but they don't pay the bills...they barely pay for the postage. I need to put some time into it.
I don't have the entire break to myself, though. Tomorrow morning I'm leaving town WAY too early on a Saturday to go to Warsaw, IN for a worship concert. I'm staying the night, going to church Sunday morning, then hiking back up to Michigan.
Monday will be a fun day :) A friend of mine is starting a job as a make-up artist at a local salon. She has to go through some training and needs to bring a model. Ta-da! Karin on Spring Break = available face for make-up training. I can handle sitting around and being made pretty for an afternoon. Just hoping it include a little brow tweezing ;) hee, hee
Other than that, I can't really think of anything that I HAVE to do for the week. That works for me. I'm at the library right now and realizing how much I miss it. I really do accomplish a lot when I'm at the library. Maybe it's the no-food policy, or the shushing librarians. Whatever it is, there aren't a lot of distractions and I usually do well here.
That's pretty much it. Did I forget anything? I don't think so. Oh! Props to the older sis and b-i-l and their new pad. I'm jealous. They spent two days looking, offered, and are now closing on a condo. Matt and I started looking last spring. Oy. We don't agree on much. But that's a long story best saved for another three posts.
Okay folks - enjoy the weekend! (Gotta go pee)
Spring Break started today. I know that I don't teach full-time, but I'm really looking forward to this week off. I just want to write and work on selling some more articles. I'm determined to make more money as a writer. I just need to get myself going. You know how it is, when there's SO MUCH to do that you just don't know where to start? That's how freelancing has been for me. I've been content with my two little by-lines, but they don't pay the bills...they barely pay for the postage. I need to put some time into it.
I don't have the entire break to myself, though. Tomorrow morning I'm leaving town WAY too early on a Saturday to go to Warsaw, IN for a worship concert. I'm staying the night, going to church Sunday morning, then hiking back up to Michigan.
Monday will be a fun day :) A friend of mine is starting a job as a make-up artist at a local salon. She has to go through some training and needs to bring a model. Ta-da! Karin on Spring Break = available face for make-up training. I can handle sitting around and being made pretty for an afternoon. Just hoping it include a little brow tweezing ;) hee, hee
Other than that, I can't really think of anything that I HAVE to do for the week. That works for me. I'm at the library right now and realizing how much I miss it. I really do accomplish a lot when I'm at the library. Maybe it's the no-food policy, or the shushing librarians. Whatever it is, there aren't a lot of distractions and I usually do well here.
That's pretty much it. Did I forget anything? I don't think so. Oh! Props to the older sis and b-i-l and their new pad. I'm jealous. They spent two days looking, offered, and are now closing on a condo. Matt and I started looking last spring. Oy. We don't agree on much. But that's a long story best saved for another three posts.
Okay folks - enjoy the weekend! (Gotta go pee)
Friday, March 20, 2009
I couldn't help myself...
As a registered voter and one of the millions of people who elect others to represent me in Washington D.C., I often email my reps to express my opinions on various bills/issues. Because I've done this I also get updates from time to time. I got the email today. I couldn't help it...I sent off a speedy response (posted below):
Dear Mrs. Beery:
I thought you might be interested in the speech I gave in the Senate yesterday regarding the outrageous bonuses given to executives at American International Group (AIG).As has been widely reported, AIG chose to dole out sizeable performance and retention bonuses last week to executives of the very financial services division that was responsible for creating many of the exotic securities that brought the company to its knees.
This tone-deaf decision represents not only an egregious misuse of taxpayer funds, but highlights just one of the many double standards that have been applied to companies receiving federal assistance.
It was only four months ago that our nation’s struggling domestic auto-makers asked for government loans that amount to a small fraction of the money we have given to Wall Street. Hardworking Americans, who put in an honest day’s work building automobiles, were summarily criticized for making a living wage as executives at financial services companies receiving billions of taxpayer dollars rewarded themselves with obscene bonuses.
Unlike the autoworkers, A.I.G.’s executives didn’t step up to the plate. I felt compelled to highlight this shameful double standard when I spoke yesterday on the floor of the United States Senate.You can view my full statement by clicking on the following link: [http://www.levin.senate.gov/newsroom/release.cfm?id=310035]
Sincerely,Carl Levin
Thank you for the notice about your opposition to the AIG bonuses. However, I wonder if you read the stimulus bill before you signed it. Sen. Dodd ADMITS that he wrote in a loop hole ALLOWING the execs at AIG to get bonuses.
It leaves me to believe one of two things:
1 - you didn't read the bill and are now trying to cover your butt
2 - you DID read the bill and are now being called on the carpet by the same people who didn't want you to sign the bill in the first place.
Your attempt to destroy consumer confidence in businesses is noted, but so is your irresponsible voting and bill-making.
Dear Mrs. Beery:
I thought you might be interested in the speech I gave in the Senate yesterday regarding the outrageous bonuses given to executives at American International Group (AIG).As has been widely reported, AIG chose to dole out sizeable performance and retention bonuses last week to executives of the very financial services division that was responsible for creating many of the exotic securities that brought the company to its knees.
This tone-deaf decision represents not only an egregious misuse of taxpayer funds, but highlights just one of the many double standards that have been applied to companies receiving federal assistance.
It was only four months ago that our nation’s struggling domestic auto-makers asked for government loans that amount to a small fraction of the money we have given to Wall Street. Hardworking Americans, who put in an honest day’s work building automobiles, were summarily criticized for making a living wage as executives at financial services companies receiving billions of taxpayer dollars rewarded themselves with obscene bonuses.
Unlike the autoworkers, A.I.G.’s executives didn’t step up to the plate. I felt compelled to highlight this shameful double standard when I spoke yesterday on the floor of the United States Senate.You can view my full statement by clicking on the following link: [http://www.levin.senate.gov/newsroom/release.cfm?id=310035]
Sincerely,Carl Levin
Thank you for the notice about your opposition to the AIG bonuses. However, I wonder if you read the stimulus bill before you signed it. Sen. Dodd ADMITS that he wrote in a loop hole ALLOWING the execs at AIG to get bonuses.
It leaves me to believe one of two things:
1 - you didn't read the bill and are now trying to cover your butt
2 - you DID read the bill and are now being called on the carpet by the same people who didn't want you to sign the bill in the first place.
Your attempt to destroy consumer confidence in businesses is noted, but so is your irresponsible voting and bill-making.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Let's think about it...
I am truly saddened by the death of Natash Richardson. I enjoyed her work (what I've seen), but that's not what really grieves me. It's her two sons, 12 and 13 yrs. old, who will miss her. It's a sad, sad situation.
What's got me thinking, however, is the responses that I have heard, thus far, about the prevention of her death: Wear a Helmet.
Um...yeah. That might have helped. But let's consider this: You're not a doctor - go see one.
There was apparently an ambulance at the ski lodge waiting to take Richardson to the hospital. She felt fine, so she didn't want to go. Now, if it's a known fact that ski falls can result in head trauma (which is why the use of helmets is encouraged), why wouldn't you go have your head examined? While I don't know this for a fact, I feel confident in the assumption that Richardson could have afforded to go to the hospital.
The reason I bring this up is that two months ago a read an article in a women's magazine about a lady who had been in a car accident. She was sore, but thought she'd be okay. She had the insurance, but didn't want to miss work. Instead, she went about her life.
Two years later she is broke and in constant pain because of the injuries that she couldn't see that she didn't treat. She ended up missing work because she was in pain. She was gone for so many days that she lost her job.
It took her almost six weeks before she went to see her first doctor. By that time the damage was done, and some if it became permenant.
So this is what I'VE been thinking about...if you have the opportunity and the resourses SEE A DOCTOR!! I'm not sure why we as a people think we know more than doctors. Fifteen years of "ER" doesn't make up for years of medical school.
Maybe it would help to understand that by the time we feel sick, something is already wrong. A check-up can never hurt...ESPECIALLY if you have the insurance/money to get help!
That's what's going on in my head today. I'm not one to visit the doctor for every runny nose (I know how to treat that), but when someone serious happens, I have the time and resources to get a second opinion. The worst that can happen is being told you're fine. The best? Living to see another day.
Please folks...wear your helmet. And see a doctor!!
What's got me thinking, however, is the responses that I have heard, thus far, about the prevention of her death: Wear a Helmet.
Um...yeah. That might have helped. But let's consider this: You're not a doctor - go see one.
There was apparently an ambulance at the ski lodge waiting to take Richardson to the hospital. She felt fine, so she didn't want to go. Now, if it's a known fact that ski falls can result in head trauma (which is why the use of helmets is encouraged), why wouldn't you go have your head examined? While I don't know this for a fact, I feel confident in the assumption that Richardson could have afforded to go to the hospital.
The reason I bring this up is that two months ago a read an article in a women's magazine about a lady who had been in a car accident. She was sore, but thought she'd be okay. She had the insurance, but didn't want to miss work. Instead, she went about her life.
Two years later she is broke and in constant pain because of the injuries that she couldn't see that she didn't treat. She ended up missing work because she was in pain. She was gone for so many days that she lost her job.
It took her almost six weeks before she went to see her first doctor. By that time the damage was done, and some if it became permenant.
So this is what I'VE been thinking about...if you have the opportunity and the resourses SEE A DOCTOR!! I'm not sure why we as a people think we know more than doctors. Fifteen years of "ER" doesn't make up for years of medical school.
Maybe it would help to understand that by the time we feel sick, something is already wrong. A check-up can never hurt...ESPECIALLY if you have the insurance/money to get help!
That's what's going on in my head today. I'm not one to visit the doctor for every runny nose (I know how to treat that), but when someone serious happens, I have the time and resources to get a second opinion. The worst that can happen is being told you're fine. The best? Living to see another day.
Please folks...wear your helmet. And see a doctor!!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Creative Cooking
As you may know, Matt and I are really getting into cooking these days. We've even made some casseroles together (and they were yummy). Last week we made up some of our own recipes. They're a bit off kilter, but we like 'em!
While suffering uncontrollable cravings (cyclical in nature, not prenatal) I NEEDED something salty...and sweet...and chewy...and hot. I created:
WURSTLOAF (or Bratloaf)
1 lb. brats, remove casings
Oatmeal (I just dumped it in - 1/3-1/2 c. I guess)
1 egg
Brown Sugar (again, I dumped - 1/4 c?)
Mix all ingredients together. Put in a small, greased loaf pan. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes. HEAVEN!!
Later in the week we wanted popcorn. We LOVE popcorn (the real stuff, not microwave). Matt is very creative with his spices, using anything from the cabinet that suits his fancy. Last week it was taco seasoning. We had emptied a spice jar, so he cleaned it out and dumped in a few packages of taco mix. We sprinkled it on our popcorn and, VIOLA! Yumminess.
I'll let you know if any other fabulous creations leave our kitchen, but I don't guarantee they'll be "normal" :)
While suffering uncontrollable cravings (cyclical in nature, not prenatal) I NEEDED something salty...and sweet...and chewy...and hot. I created:
WURSTLOAF (or Bratloaf)
1 lb. brats, remove casings
Oatmeal (I just dumped it in - 1/3-1/2 c. I guess)
1 egg
Brown Sugar (again, I dumped - 1/4 c?)
Mix all ingredients together. Put in a small, greased loaf pan. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes. HEAVEN!!
Later in the week we wanted popcorn. We LOVE popcorn (the real stuff, not microwave). Matt is very creative with his spices, using anything from the cabinet that suits his fancy. Last week it was taco seasoning. We had emptied a spice jar, so he cleaned it out and dumped in a few packages of taco mix. We sprinkled it on our popcorn and, VIOLA! Yumminess.
I'll let you know if any other fabulous creations leave our kitchen, but I don't guarantee they'll be "normal" :)
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