Something to Lift You Up

Even though each day seems to get a little better, I still seem to be struggling with the events in the past few months that have left me frantically searching for someone to believe in my book--to believe in me--the way I do. After weeks of rewrites and edits, days and days of polishing my query and synopsis and even more time sending them out to prospective agents, I feel I've done all I can--but wait. I wish I knew what the Lord has in store for me. To have been led down a path of disappointment, and now to have no real hope of recapturing that magic of attaining my dream, I feel I'm wandering aimlessly, with no direction. I pray. I hope. I dream. But still no answers.

Today, I seek peace and have found some while spending time with my family and listening to some uplifting spiritual music. So for all those who are also feeling a bit down or discouraged, I have a song to share with you. Perhaps it will help you feel the warmth of the Savior's love, as I have.



Lift Me Up - Jericho Road

Every now and then I lose my way
I wander off the path
And I need Someone to find me
When I think the pain is here to stay
And I might not make it back
You remind me

I think it's one of those mysteries
We're not meant to figure out
You'll be there when I need You most
I have no doubt


Even when my thoughts are far from You
Even when I wander from the truth
You are always there beside me
Everytime I try and walk alone
Thinking I can make it on my own
And I fall when I begin
You're there to lift me up again
It always happens right out of the blue
When I'm in my darkest hour
And it's feeling like forever
Something always makes me think of You
And I can feel Your power more than ever

I think it's one of those mysteries
We're not meant to figure out
You'll be there when I need You most
I have no doubt


Chorus
Even when I'm barely hanging on
I am weightless in Your love
And my fear is gone


Chorus

Friendly Friday - Nichole Giles

Nichole Giles was born in Nevada, the oldest of seven, and moved with her gypsy-esque parents to a number of cities in and around the Midwest, mostly staying in Utah, Nevada, Arizona, and snatches of time in Texas. Her future aspirations include adding a tropical island to her list. For now, she plans to travel to as many tropical locations as possible, scouting for her future home in paradise. In the meantime, Nichole lives in Pleasant Grove, Utah with her husband, two sons, two daughters, two golden retrievers, and the community of fairies that live in her yard. As her family and friends will tell you, laughing is at the top of her list of daily to-do’s, and she believes laughter is the perfect cure for a broken heart.

What Drives Me?

By Nichole Giles

I’ve done a bunch of blogging recently. Probably to make up for the fact that I didn’t blog much at all during December and the first half of January. Or maybe it’s because I’m inspired lately. No reason in particular. Usually, winter is a time of introspection for me, a time of deep thinking. Which doesn’t generally translate into inspiration, but instead steals my desire to write. Strange, I know.

I’m not a big fan of winter. Or, well, winter in Utah. I’m sure I’d feel differently if I lived in Hawaii, or the Bahamas, or somewhere else tropical and beautiful. The cold and gloom often feels like a heavy weight that sits on my chest. And who can write with a brick on their chest?

But I do write during the winter. I’ll often catch myself staring at a blank screen, my fingers unmoving, but every day I force myself to get something onto the page. Some days I’m actually productive. Others, I’m happy to have gone through my emails, updated Facebook and Twitter, and read a few blogs. Regardless of the day, though, I always, always try.

Because I’m driven to write, and motivated that what I write will someday be published. This isn’t just a goal for me, but a lifestyle. A mission. A purpose. Sometimes, it’s a reason for existing.

Okay, so I’m driven to write. But driven by what? Because, putting words on a page is just that. Words on a page. Right? Hm. So, what really drives me? Geeze. Now I’ve stumped myself. Good one. Let me think for a minute.

*Taps side of head, chin, elbow. Stares out the window at the mucky, icky air. Listens to children come in from school and pound on piano and play guitar. Helps with homework. Comes back to the computer. Sighs at life’s twists and turns.*

I’ve got it! I’m driven by life. By the endless possibilities in my future, and the futures of my family, my children. I’m driven by human emotion, by what my words might someday accomplish. By the example I set for others—especially my children—by following my dreams. I’m driven by what lies ahead, as well as my experiences from the past. And hope.

I have so much hope inside me that someday I’ll write something that will change someone, help someone, inspire someone. I hope to be remembered when I die. To leave an imprint on the world—hopefully a good one. These hopes, desires, dreams—whatever you want to call them—burn like lava in my gut and translate into my writing.

I am driven to write, so I do. I am determined to be published, so I submit. I hope, I dream, I live. I’m driven.

Someday, maybe I will live in a tropical paradise, and writing in the winter will be easier. Cake even. But if not, I’ll continue to try. As long as I live, I’ll feel the drive that pushes me onward and upward. I’ll live my life with hope and determination. Because those two things have a history of changing the world.

And every change starts with someone.

Thanks, Christine, for inviting me to be your guest. I’ve enjoyed my time visiting with your readers. To see more of my work, visit my blog or website.

Until next time, WRITE ON!

Thanks for being my guest today, Nichole. The best part of having a guest on my blog is getting to know each of you better.

Keep writing.
Keep submitting.
Keep dreaming.

Don't forget to pick up one or both of Nichole's books.


The Sharp Edge of the Knife will be available for purchase any day now.
She'll be announcing her launch party in a week or two, so watch her blog for the announcement.

Next week my guest blogger will be
Rachelle J. Christensen.

Overcoming Limitations & Obstacles

My niece sent me these pictures in an email this morning and as I scrolled down, taking in each exquisite detail of the artist's rendition of these beautiful animals, I thought how wonderful it would be to be born with such a natural talent. To be able to pick up a simple pencil in your hand and craft something so real, so breathtaking, so extraordinary.

I thought about my own talents and my meager gift as a writer and wondered if I'd ever be at the same degree of excellence, jealous that someone could have an easier time expressing themselves and letting their muse flow out on the page.

I thought about all the limitations and obstacles I have each day that keep me from fulfilling my dream. The mundane day to day chores, children interrupting, church callings, phone calls, errands and all those little things I let get in the way of my own muse.

And then there are the excuses. Writer's block. Too busy. Not enough hours in the day. Self doubt. Listening and believing those that have negative things to say, like you're too old, too young, not educated enough, not outgoing enough, not GOOD ENOUGH.

By the time I got to my favorite, this tiger, I thought of my character, Toran. He's a white tiger. I thought of the scenes I'd put him in and how much I enjoyed creating him, believing in him and loving him. Me--I created Toran. I breathed life into him. I gave him a personality, a voice. And then I thought of how much I loved doing that, how it is my passion and how horrible it would be if I lost my talent and couldn't create anymore. It was then that I came to the last picture, a photograph of the artist. The lead of his pencil perfectly poised against the surface of the paper.

Meet Doug Landis. A man who has let nothing get in the way of his gift, nothing stop him from achieving his dream. A man truly without excuses, without obstacles, without limitations, not because they are not there, but because he chose to ignore them, to beat them. Regardless of the fact that he has no arms, he has overcome those things that held him back, not listened to those who told him he couldn't, and become the best at what he does.

So, to all of us, no more excuses! Keep trying, keep writing, keep submitting, keep believing and keep dreaming. It will come.

Writing in Present Tense

I just finished reading Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins. Actually, that's not true. I just finished listening to it--my first audio book. I have to say it was a first for me in a lot of ways. I have a tendency to lean toward romance when I pick a novel, and even though this has a bit of "love" twisted in with the danger and suspense, it's more a Dystopian Young Adult. I've only read a handful of those. I must say I really liked Hunger Games and can't wait to get the sequel.

The other thing that was different, was the tense. I'd only read one other book in present tense and at first it seemed strange. By the time I was finished, I love it. I've never written present tense, but am seriously considering it on my next project. I'd love to give it a try and see if I can do it. I imagine it to be hard at first, stumbling over my words and catching my habit of writing past tense in every sentence, but after a while, I think it will be easier, just like listening to Hunger Games was.

So, I'm curious. Have you tried writing in present tense? Is it always in 1st person or can it be done in 3rd? Do you have any advice? Is this something just for YA or do you think adult fiction can handle it too?

Tagalong Tuesday

It's getting harder and harder to choose from all the bloggers out there. I love all the posts I come across. I hope I picked enough of a variety to keep you all interested. Enjoy!

Unfortunately, the Universe decided to give me strep throat. Thanks a lot Universe! Now you owe me! Ha! Talk about backfiring! All you have to do is get me all published and stuff and we'll call it square. Okay? *crickets chirping* (Jenn Johannson - What I Learned From Miss Snark...)

Q: Do you write fiction because you're scared of the Truth?

A: I write fiction because it's my favorite vehicle for Truth. The True parts are what remain after the story is over. (Becca Wilhite - FAQ)

I'm excited to share the first chapter of my upcoming book with you. I'd love to know what you think. Enjoy! (Rachelle Christiensen - First Chapter of Wrong Number)

Unfortunately, whenever large groups of girls play sports together, it has the potential to become a popularity contest more than a sports competition. Sometimes, it’s a lot of both, and that’s where things get very difficult. (Nichole Giles - What Happy Taught Me)

I am now the proud owner of one whopping shiner. It takes all the attention away from the bags under my eyes and from my crow’s feet. It has turned into the most flattering shade of deep plum and rests over my left eye like a Portobello mushroom, only purple. (Jane Still - The Shiner)

On the road to success it is sometimes easy to get distracted. This is especially true when we see other people bringing forth such fruitful successes while we are still planting a seed. We feel defeated.
(Amber Lynae - French Inspiration)

You can never please a complainer, don't even try. Like Gangrene, it will infect your optimism and decay your well-being. It is better to amputate a complainer than to allow the bacteria to affect your life. (Debbie Hibbert - Terminate Complaint)

I’ve found my writing is like shoveling. Occasionally, I write a great sentence and I have a profound thought or two, but like when snow comes out of the side of shovel or I miss a spot, I have to go back and do it again. (Keith Fisher - Finding the Method)

Music Monday

As I continue to work on "The Keeper of the Crystor" I'm constantly aware of the love that the two main characters, Kira and Octavion, have for each other. For Kira, it is a new love, something she's never experienced before, but for Octavion, who's watched her from afar for years, it's a dream finally coming true. After denying his feelings for Kira and putting distance between them to keep her safe, he's finally able to hold her in his arms and allow himself the luxery of loving her.

This song, Wherever You Are, by Laava, reminds me of this new and everlasting love. No matter where they are or how far apart they may become in their journey, they will always love each other. Enjoy.

The Invisible Woman

A friend of mine sent me this video and I wanted to share it with all of you.



Her message is quite clear, that what we do, we do for the Lord and that He sees everything. Please think about this when you don't feel you'll ever get published or that you don't think you or your writing is good enough. The Lord knows every word you put on the page, every second you spend improving on the gifts and talents He gave you, every tear shed when that manuscript comes back after being edited by your critique group. He knows you and He loves you and it will all be worth it . . . in His time.

Friendly Friday - C. Michelle Jefferies

My guest today is C. Michelle Jefferies. I'm so glad to have her post on my blog today. She's a wonderful writer and an even better friend. Welcome to Day Dreamer, Michelle.

C. Michelle Jefferies writes science fiction, a stark contrast to her rural life in south eastern Utah with six kids, house, husband, and pet birds. Although her heart resides in the stars, she has been known to be distracted by romance and the occasional vampire story.

Do You Want It?
By: C. Michelle Jefferies

Do you want it bad enough to work for it?

It’s a common thing now days to see a child or teen given something they want because we don’t want to see the tantrum or damage their self esteem. I ask you to ponder this though. If someone is given everything they want without working for it, where is the real reward of hard work? I was just talking to a friend who’s teenage granddaughter is a dreamer, she watches figure skating and wants to be a skater, she watches a movie and wants to be an actress, she wants to be famous but doesn’t want to work for her success. This is becoming more apparent as it is becoming popular to be your child’s friend instead of their parent. Unfortunately I see this as a short trip to disaster.

When I was young it was acceptable to not have everything we wanted and to work for what you really did want. I was taught if you want something bad enough that you could get it with hard work.

If you want to be a NBA basketball player you have to get a ball and work at gaining the skills necessary to be a good player. You have to play for hours every day, as well as get good grades. You can’t just walk on a team. You need to get into college and on their team to be noticed. If you want to be a skater or dancer you need to skate or dance for hours a day. Same thing about getting good grades, and doing well in school.

The same thing goes for writing, if you want to be published you have to work for it. You have to sit your butt in that chair and write. You have to learn your craft and be willing to change things that you may even love in order to make an editor or publisher happy. Writing takes money, most people have laptops and spend lots of their own money on paper, printers, and ink. As well as writers conferences and postage as they send their babies out into the world.

They also put their hearts on the line when giving their work to people knowing that it might come back looking like a “blood donation” , or someone might tell them that their babies are ugly and need work. Or that their first story is just that, a first story and therefore deemed to never see the publishing light of day.

I know what some of you are thinking. What about this author or this author? They made it in less than ten querys. While things like that happen, it’s a drop in the publishing bucket. Most people have to work for their success. It usually takes somewhere between five years and 100,000 thousand hours to get to that publishing point. Lots and lots of hard work.

While what I am saying might seem discouraging, don’t let it get to you. What I want you to gain from this is that if you REALLY want it you have to be willing to put in the hours. I know a guy who have traveled across the Atlantic Ocean to attend a writers conference in Utah. That’s dedication to his craft. I have friends who have written numerous drafts of the same story until its perfect only to revise it again because they are so close. I have a dear friend who literally took her book and split the story into two books and has started the writing process on a ten year old story AGAIN. I have had friends who have taken a first person book and changed it to third person. I myself have written millions of words and thousands of pages. This is my fifth year of writing and I feel that the hard work has paid off. I feel that I might be almost there.

If you want it bad enough, you need to work at it.

Besides, isn’t it more worth it when you have worked for it?

To visit Michelle's blogs, go HERE and then go HERE.

Thanks for being my guest blogger today, Michelle. I love your post and totally agree with you. There are far too many people out there that think this world owes them a living and aren't willing to put in the long hours and sweat to get what they want out of life. Unfortunately, paying your dues is part of the process of writing.

My guest blogger next week will be, Nichole Giles. If you'd like to be a guest, please leave a comment and let me know how to contact you. Enjoy.

Look Out Blogging World, Here She Comes!

HOLY COW!!

What has the blogging world come to?

There I was minding my own business when my friend Ali Cross sent me an instant message about something new she wanted to do on her blog. I was like . . . WHAT? You want to do WHAT? At first I was totally blown away and thought she was out of her blogging mind, I mean, I would never do such a thing on MY blog.

NO WAY!

But then she explained it a little better and told me how she would tweak it to suit her blogging buddies and I found myself totally on board with it. The idea is new and wonderful and groundbreaking. I just wish I'd thought of doing it first.

So here is the first step:

Yep, that's right. The first step, and the title of her fresh idea, is "Ask Ali" where you simply ask her a question and she answers it every Friday. Nothing new there, right. Well, hang onto your britches, 'cause here's the kicker.

She answers with a VLOG! A WHAT? you might ask. A VLOG!!! That's a VIDEO BLOG and here's a little taste of what you can expect over on ASK ALI.



So make sure you hop on over there tomorrow and check out her first VLOG. I've already seen a sneak preview and it ROCKS!!

Creating a Lovable Hero

While all writers strive to create a believable hero--one that is strong, unique and lovable--we sometimes fall short of our expectations.

In our mind we may see:

Brad Pitt

Matthew McConaughey

or

Hugh Jackman

What red blooded American woman wouldn't swoon to baby blue eyes, wavy blond hair and all those muscles, right? But what about the other kinds of heroes? The real everyday heroes?

I'm talking about those men in our lives that put up with all our little strange habits, late hours and household chores that remain undone. The ones that let you lock yourself away in a room for hours, while they watch the kids. The ones that step up to the plate when you have a deadline and get those dishes out of the sink or fold those clothes that have been in a basket at the end of the bed for a week.

Yes, ladies, the real heroes are our loving husbands.

My hero is Ed. He not only works hours and hours at our restaurant, allowing me the luxury of writing full time at home, but when he does happen to be home, he can been found doing all those things I mentioned above and more. This past Saturday he helped me take down all the Christmas decorations, hauled the boxes out to the garage and then proceeded to help me put the house back together. When I was tired and ready to quit, he just kept on going.

I couldn't ask for a better hero in my life.
A real life hero.
Back away from the computer ladies.
He's taken.

Tagalong Tuesday

I can't believe all the great blog posts out there to choose from. I had a hard time deciding which ones to pick. In the end, I think I have a great selection. Hope you enjoy.

Have you ever heard somebody say, "If God truly existed, he wouldn't allow people to suffer." (Daron D. Fraley - Did God Punish Haiti?)

I tend to write by the seat of my pants. I let the story flow from my fingers and just hope it makes sense in the end. (Stephanie Humphreys - Finding What Works)

Today we’re kicking off our series on tension, suspense and surprise. (I mean . . . surprise!)

It’s easy to look at those elements and think, “Oh, that’s good for a mystery or a romance, but my story doesn’t need those things” or “I’m not writing suspense, why does that matter?” (Jordan McCollum - The Tension Begins)

I may be swimming with the sharks, but I'm not getting eaten alive. (Kimberly Job - Swimming With the Sharks)

I know that no matter what, Heavenly Father will bless him to do exactly what he needs to do despite what doctors may say. (Rebecca Talley - A Reminder)

The whole experience reminded me how important it is to give our children time, experience, and love. These are the gifts that will never break, wear out, or be forgotten. It is the ultimate gift of family. (Nichole Giles - The Ultimate Gift)

“Honey when you wake up and find someone waving their arm over you like a magic wand it’s a creepy feeling. Like your being put under a hex or something." (Jane Still - The Nap)

Thanks for sharing your blogs with us. I've really enjoyed getting to know all of you better through reading them.

Crank It Up and ENJOY!!

I have no reason to post this video for my Music Monday except that I'm in a great mood and I love this song. So crank up the volume and have a GREAT day.

Another Character From My Book

Toran

Meet my favorite character in my book, The Keeper of the Crystor.

I can't tell you everything that he can do for fear of giving all the secrets of my book away, but I can tell you he's a big pussy cat and that the main character, Kira, falls in love with him.
Here's a little scene from the book.

Toran and Kira untangled their bodies as Octavion attempted to help her to her feet. Unfortunately, Toran stood at the same time and came up between them, pushing Octavion aside. Both man and beast let out a growl in protest.

Kira couldn’t help but laugh. “I think he likes me,” she said, giving Toran a good rub on the back.

“He had better watch his manners, or he will be my next meal,” Octavion teased.

Toran let out a ferocious roar as if to tell Octavion the same thing, then sauntered off toward the clearing.

“I think he just got the last word,” Kira said.

Octavion smirked. “He usually does.”

That's it. Join me next week when I introduce you to Lydia and Altaria.

Finding Time To Read

READ? What's that? I've tried to read the same book 3 times now and can't seem to find time to get more than a couple chapters into it before it disappears. I found it in the back seat of my car today and wondered if I even remembered what was happening with the characters when I put it down. I see my fellow writers blogging their book reviews, one after another, and wonder how they do that AND find time to write. How do they juggle it with their families and work and taking care of the house and going to lunch with friends and church callings and and and and.....

What am I doing wrong?

I mean, it's obvious (because I found the book in the car) that I took it everywhere with me, in hopes to catch a spare moment to read it. And I don't think it's the book, it came highly recommended by a friend and I do vaguely remember enjoying what I'd read so far. So why am I having such a hard time finding time to read? Isn't reading part of writing?

So, please tell me how you squeeze in your reading time. I'd love to hear how, where and when you find the time.

Friendly Friday - L.T. Elliot

"A Good Friend"

L.T. Elliot is a mother to two exemplary children and the wife of a man she can’t live without. She also happens to write speculative fiction. You can read about her insanity-in-progress at Dreams of Quill and Ink. She’s grateful to guest-post for Christine, a writer she admires and a friend she adores.

When Christine first asked me to guest post here at Day Dreamer, I was sure I’d come up with something writerly and wise—like other clever guests have done. To those who know me, it should be little surprise to find out otherwise. To the rest of you, my sincerest apologies.

Sometimes an idea creeps up on me and wriggles into my mind, waiting for my considerable lack of will so that it can occupy the whole of my thoughts. Other times, I’m struck by a single line and it is those moments I have come to trust my pen to scrawl the words while my heart provides the ink. Now is one of those times.

I have a deep, intimate relationship with God. It isn’t something I talk or write about often. In no way because I’m ashamed of it but rather because that which is most sacred to my heart is often played close to the vest. But I heard the line in my mind and I’ve learned never to ignore the siren call.

As a small girl, raised by church-going Christians, my relationship with God was pretty simple. I knew He existed. Christmas brought the birth of Baby Jesus and Santa Claus. Easter meant Jesus came back from death and a giant rabbit brought eggs and candy. I’d pray for My Little Ponies and blessed meals and trusted God would do the rest. Easy Peasy.

Somewhere along the way, I began to worry less about ponies and more about life. It was right around that delightful age betwixt angsty poetry and songs of unrequited love.

I remember, clearly, walking home from a friend’s house, chock-full of all these things I could never say to anyone—things I thought no one else could understand. If I told my friends, they’d laugh or drop me quicker than this week’s crush. I couldn’t talk to my parents. What was left to me?

So I just started talking.

Teenagers are a weird breed in most situations so I didn’t worry that people would see me talking to myself and call for the nearest Charter hospital. I just opened my mouth and watched as it tumbled and frothed and spilled free. Things I didn’t know how to put to words, things I couldn’t keep stuffed low in my belly, things that felt like poison scorching through my veins.

And slowly, the venom was bled. I was removed from the heated coil and whatever was bubbling up inside of me cooled and was still. Something new filled its place. There wasn’t a celestial voice that parted sky or sea but there was the blanketed quiet of knowing someone heard me and understood.

After that, I found that whenever I had a moment of solitude, I filled it with my voice and offered up my daily cares. It wasn’t like any prayer I’d ever heard of, but that didn’t matter to me. To me, I didn’t see it as a prayer so much as a conversation, one that was much more reciprocal than I could ever have expected.

Over time, those conversations became more than a release valve for the things I couldn’t handle. I poured out all the details of my life and a friendship flourished that has become essential to me in every way.

Since that long ago lonely walk, I can only recall one time in all those years that I thought God had abandoned me. Standing on the other side of that darkness, I can say with glowing truth that I have never been more wrong—and glad to be so. That one time, that unfathomable, despairing trial, provided the foundation for a joy so full, I cannot possibly measure it.

That is not to say that I’ve never suffered since then. I make plenty of mistakes and my relationship with God has seen a few awkward distances, but never because He drew away from me. Our friendship only wanes when I stop talking.

Truth be told, I’m not sure why I felt so strongly about writing this particular post but like I’ve said, I’ve learned when to listen. Maybe someone else will read this and find that, even when we are so miserably lonely, we are never alone.

After all these years and all those talks, I’ve come to recognize His voice. A more merciful God, I’ll never know; a better friend I’ll never have. No one has ever understood me better and loved me more. When I begin to doubt and despair, I take a walk or go on a drive.

And chat it out with a good friend.

I'm so grateful for having L.T. Elliot blog for me today. Her story has truly touched my heart, as I'm sure it has yours. Please join me next week when my guest blogger will be C.Michelle Jefferies.

Meet My Characters

Meet Kira, as played by Leighton Meester, an actress. Of course, Kira's hair is much longer, auburn, and her eyes a stunning emerald green, but Leighton's facial features and body structure is how I envision Kira.

From the book:

“You’ve come a long way, Mouse,” Kira said to her reflection in the bathroom mirror. It was sarcasm, of course. She knew she wouldn’t be where she was today if it weren’t for her best friend, Lydia. And the nickname no longer held any kind of sentiment, but mocked her way of life.

Instead of proving her mother wrong by being a strong and independent woman with visions of success in the real world, she’d become exactly what she swore she’d never be. From her mousy red hair to her worn-out sneakers, she was her mother’s daughter. Kira had turned inward, rarely venturing outside the tiny one-bedroom farmhouse she rented, not even for the necessities.

Yep, this is how I see Octavion. Isn't he yummy. This is actually a romance novel model, Nathan Kamp. I'd put the link to his website here, but I don't want you drooling all over my blog.

In my book, Octavion's hair is just past his shoulders, and he's a little bit more buff, but other than that, this is him. Grrrowl.

From the Book:

From where Kira sat, she could only see him from the back, most of which was a mass of bulging muscle. His hair was light brown with blond streaks highlighting each wave—a bit disheveled, but it looked natural atop his broad shoulders. His outfit was right out of a historical romance novel. His dark brown leather pants were tucked into a black pair of boots that laced up with leather straps and went almost to his knees. His shirt was…well, he really wasn’t wearing a shirt. It was more like a vest, also made of leather.

Was it love at first sight? You be the judge:

Kira put her hands in the dirt and tried to push herself up, but stopped when he turned to face her. The rage in his eyes froze her where she sat. She was only inches from the knife, so she leaned forward, plucked it from the dirt, and put it up between them.

His focus quickly shifted to the bloody weapon, then back to Kira—the confusion clearly visible in his eyes. “You did this?” he asked with a resonating voice. With one fluid motion, he turned, picked her up, and slammed her back against a tree, knocking the breath out of her. He took the knife by the blade, pitched it into a nearby stump, then turned his attention back to Kira. He had one hand knotted in the front of her jacket, holding her up, the other quickly tightening around her throat.

“Why?” he roared as a rumbling growl escaped his chest. His dark blue eyes were laced with tiny threads of yellow. As he held her there, he began to breathe heavily, the pupils of his eyes narrowing from large, round orbs to slits of black surrounded by more yellow.

Kira opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out. Lowering his chin, he brought his cat-like eyes even closer to hers. His warm breath washed over her as she tried to inhale, but the only air she drew in was his scent. The woodsy musk coming from his body seemed strangely familiar.

Sorry, folks. That's all you get for now. Maybe next week I'll give you a glimpse of Lydia and her kindred spirit, Altaria. Oh, and I'll be sure to include Toran. You'll love him.

I Killed A Tree Today!

In order to submit my book, The Keeper of the Crystor, to DAW (Penguin) Publishing, I had to print the entire manuscript out on paper. I've always wanted to do that, to see the stack of pages all crisp and clean lying there on the desk with my name printed under the title. But the one thing that kept me from doing it was EDITS. I felt it was a waste of paper and ink to print something when I wasn't finished with it, when there might be one more scene I could add, or word I could change. It never seemed to be DONE . . . until now.

So here it is, all 467 pages of glorious fiction, all of which came from my twisted little mind.

Okay, so I have to give SOME credit to my writing friends and critique group who told me what to change and what stunk, and I also have to give a lot of credit to an editor and her partner in crime (you know who you are) for asking all the right questions and making me work my butt off to get this book to where it is today. And last, but definitely NOT least, there's the voice that constantly whispers in my ear, telling me just what keys to press my fingers to. My muse? Nope, I'm talking about a much greater influence in my life. My Heavenly Father, without whom I'd have no talent at all.

But for the most part, it is MINE . . . ALL MINE.

So now what do I do with it? Well, first of all, I'm sending it off to DAW and then I may do the same to TOR. Why not start with the big fantasy publishers? I mean, if anyone knows what good writing is, they do, right? Besides, it will take up to 6 months to hear back from them, so that will give me plenty of time to query agents, work on book two, "Death's Betrayal" and write the fun little romance I started a few months ago. I've got plenty to do, however, there is a little snag in my plan. When I do a search on "Query Tracker" for those agents that represent authors who write fantasy/romance, it comes up with 51. That's right. ONLY 51. When you take away the ones that work for the same agency, don't accept queries at this time and just don't look good, I sent out a whoppin' 12 queries. Woo Hoo!

Now what?

Well, to start with, I'm doing a more intense search, reading all there is to read about each agent I come across and narrowing it down as best I can. The problem is having a book that borders two genres. When I first wrote the book it was supposed to be a romance with a touch of fantasy, but with the help of others I've been told it's really fantasy with a little romance. I've also been told to market it as ONLY fantasy, but when I look into that genre I don't find any other books like mine. There are a few in Young Adult, but next to nothing in the adult catagory.

*SIGH*

I keep asking myself if I've done something new and wonderful that will take the publishing industry by storm, or something stupid that will give me no place on the bookshelf and no one who's willing to represent me or believe in my book as much as I do. I guess time will tell. In the meantime, I will push forward and do whatever it takes to get Kira and Octavion the audience they deserve. Their lives, no matter how ficticious, are wonderful and beautiful and deserve to be shared with the world.

Tagalong Tuesday

WELCOME! WELCOME!

To Tagalong Tuesday, where I surf the net and find quotes from my favorite bloggers. I hope you enjoy today's selection.



I feel a strong pulse, but she’s lost a lot of blood. Time will tell, but I think she’ll pull through. Oxygen, please. Stat. (Linda Garner - Trimming the Fat)
Now, I'd like to make a Public Service Announcement to readers everywhere. Do not eat and read at the same time. (Kasie West - A PSA for Readers)

On another note, the past few YA novels I have read are starting to make me mad. I won't mention any titles, since I did like the books, but there is so much junk, and swearing in them, that I just want to read something worthwhile and clean. (Chentele - New Book Idea and...Outlines?)

In the rough times in life, always remember the big picture. In life, as in art and literature, some of the darkest shades are what bring out the depth and beauty of the whole. (Jenn Johannson - Seeing the Big Picture)

2) You can't invited anyone over. Every time the door rings he gets excited and pees on the floor. (Kristi Stevens - Top Ten Signs You're Dating a Werewolf)
Never give up your dream! You can do it, no matter your age. If you are willing to put in the time, to do the work, it will happen! (Melissa J. Cunningham - You Can Teach an Old Dog)

The hand gripping my shoulder clenched, holding me tighter against the back of the seat. “I said, pull over,” Gayle demanded. “I’ve used this knife before, and I will not hesitate to use it again.” (Nichole Giles - Take a Guess While I'm Gone)

Thanks for visiting my blog and those above. To read more from my blogging friends, click on one of the links on my side bar. There's a lot of great writers out there.

What's Next?

I had an idea for a new book pop into my head today and I found myself wondering what to do with it. It's not like I haven't had ideas before, it's just that it's been so long since I started a new book. I think it would be good for me to start something new, to breathe life into a new child and dream of it being loved by the reading world.

I've worked on my Blood Bound series for almost two years, rewriting and editing again and again, determined to get it just right. I've also worked on a romance I started a year or so before that, but unfortunately, it still remains unfinished and neglected because of my focus on my series.

So now, I'm at a crossroads of sorts. Do I work on the second book in the Blood Bound series? I've already written it once, but it still remains in 1st person and doesn't reflect all the revisions I made in the first book. It's the victim of the dreaded Domino effect that happens when you make a change in your plot or give your character a new magical power. The entire series will suffer if the errors aren't found and you can be sure the readers and fans will catch them if you don't.

Or do I go back and finish the romance. I really hate to leave things undone. It's completely outlined and I know exactly what happens in every scene. I've let it play out in my mind like a Lifetime movie over and over, so finishing it would be easy.

But then my mind wanders back to this new idea and my muse gets all excited and starts whispering in my ear. I know if I don't let her have her way, the tiny sweet voice will become loud and keep me up at night, so should I give in? Oh, what to do, what to do?

So, all my writing friends out there. Tell me what you would do.

Hey, maybe I'll get an email tomorrow from an agent and she'll put me to work looking over a contract and I won't have to decide. *sigh* Don't laugh. I'm trying to be positive here.

I Had A Dream

I hesitated sharing this with you, because it is so sacred to me, but then I realized that in doing so, I would be sharing what I've learned and that is a good thing. My hope is that reading this will somehow bring you the same kind of peace it brought me. That perhaps whatever it is you are dealing with in your life, whatever burden brings you sorrow, will be lifted or at least lightened in some way. I apologize for its length.

Most of you are aware of the journey my writing career has taken lately, with its ups of being published and downs of losing my contract. Among all the little things mingled between the normal disappointments of life, I found myself slipping into depression. For many reasons, this past Thursday was one of the roughest days.

As I lay in bed that night, praying to understand the Lord’s plan for me and begging for direction, I suddenly felt peace. It was as if I were wrapped in a warm embrace, as though I were literally in the arms of the Savior. I rolled to my side and curled into a ball, surrendering to the comfort I knew He was giving me. As I did, I continued to pray, this time not holding back the tears I’d managed to suppress moments before.

As I fell asleep, I could still feel the Savior’s presence as I dreamed, and I knew what I was being shown was something I needed to see, but still didn’t understand. I was in a room without walls, and now that I think about it, I guess that would mean they went on forever, but honestly, I saw no boundaries. There was nothing, just white, but not the blinding kind, just a soft comfortable lack of darkness.

All around me there were beautiful women, some walking in lines, as if they were moving with purpose, and others gliding around in small groups. None seemed lost or confused. In fact, they all stood straight, facing forward, their heads held high. Each one had a peaceful smile on her face and all were dressed in white, yet their clothes seemed to reflect their personalities. The garments were all modest and made of the purest weave of fabric, flowing with the breeze the women made as they walked.

As I stood there, wondering why I was being shown this, I noticed something else about them. Each one held a small box in her hands about the size of a small loaf of bread. Each box was unique and woven with a natural material like reeds or wicker or a variety of grasses, yet were all the same color, a warm reddish-brown with darker grains within each woven strip. The corners were rounded with no sharp edges. The women held them close to their hearts, as if what was inside was precious to them.

Although I didn’t see Him, I continued to feel the Savior’s spirit around me. Questions about what was inside the boxes escaped my thoughts, but instead of getting answers I was given the impression to look into my own arms. There, held tightly in my hands, was my own box. It was at that moment I woke.

I lay flat on my back, something I never do. I can’t sleep on my back, or so I thought. I closed my eyes, hoping that, with the dream still fresh in my mind, I might be able to fall back to sleep and finally get answers to my questions, but sleep didn’t come. Instead, the dream continued to unfold in my conscious mind, as though I were asleep. It was then that I notice something strange. None of the boxes had hinges. They didn’t have clasps or individual pieces that made a lid or a base either. I somehow knew they were hollow, but could see the outside was one solid weave, with no way to be opened—at least not by our own hands.

I didn’t understand, and I wanted so badly to understand. Why would I have this dream if it didn’t answer any of my questions? But then I had a sudden understanding and I knew what was inside each box. They were filled with our gifts and talents, our futures and those things we don’t know yet. The things we brought with us to this life, but that we are not allowed to see. If I were to open my box, seeing what lies before me—my future—the precious box would be destroyed, would crumble in pieces to the ground.

Then I looked up at the women again and realized what I was really seeing. They were all walking upright, with heads held high, their eyes forward. Not for a moment did they waver or deter in any direction. They all knew they had a purpose and trusted that the Lord would guide them. They all had faith, something I was obviously lacking in my life. It was not my place to question what was in my box. It was enough to know that it was unique to me and that it was filled with wonderful, glorious things that were promised to me by my Father in Heaven.

I’m so grateful that I was given such a precious gift, that I was shown something so sacred. I know now that I, too, need to walk as those other women were walking, with faith, not wavering. I need to trust the Lord and know that the wonderful things he has in store for me will come in His time, not mine, and that I need to hold that future close to my heart and protect it and honor it by being obedient.

I hope, in some small way, my sharing this dream has helped you to realize that the Lord loves each one of us and has a plan for us. Just because we can’t see it right now, doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. May the Lord bless each of you with whatever your heart desires. And may all your dreams come true . . . in the Lord's time.

Friendly Friday

Shanna Blythe

I’m not sure what to put here—I love to write. I’ve written two books and I’m currently revising the second one so I can submit the heck out of it! I’m plotting out another novel and hope to write it in the summer.

I teach Language Arts at a junior high and like it most days, love it sometimes, and hate it sometimes too! I’m only in my second year teaching, so I still have a lot to learn.

I love to hang out with friends and family, watch movies on our home theater, visit with my writing friends, go to taekwondo, and read. I love to read. And eat chocolate!

I blog sporadically, nothing like C .K., but I’m hoping to become more consistent. I also periodically blog on “Pushing Past the Pounds”. Feel free to visit my blog anytime!

"Finding Happiness"

By Shanna Blythe

We went to San Diego for our Christmas vacation this year and my husband thoroughly enjoyed the warmth—even to go so far as to say, “Let’s quit our jobs, you can find one teaching here, and I’ll just find something. I don’t care what.” I couldn’t help but wonder if this was the start of a mid-life crisis for my husband. I just couldn’t see him giving up his entire career just to move someplace warm.

But the thing is, I don’t think it was a mid-life crisis. Or maybe what we call a mid-life crisis is really something else—the pursuit of happiness. I have often heard other people, and I’m guilty myself, say things like, “If only I had this in my life I’d be happy, if only I could do this thing in my life I’d be happy . . .”

What brings happiness? Is it having things? Having financial security? Religion? Having a loving family? Having a great job that we love? What if we don’t have these things? Can we be happy?

I believe we can, but we have to find things that bring happiness—lasting happiness. And it has to be things we actually have some control over. Most of us can control our thoughts. However, if you have depression you may have to see a doctor and use medicine to help you on this one. Today, I’ve found myself wishing for the weekend. But why can’t I just appreciate the moment I’m in? Even if my students are noisy and rambunctious or not turning in the homework, why can’t I still enjoy that moment? Once it’s gone, it’s gone. I’ll never have it back. Ever. I think one way we can be happy is to live in the moment—to appreciate the moment just as it is.

Serving others is a great way to forget about yourself and find happiness. My husband and I volunteered to go help can food one day and before we left the house, we both groaned and complained about doing it. By the time we were finished we were both in great moods and happy we’d gone.

Some kind of physical exercise or exertion can help. Whenever I go to taekwondo, no matter how grumpy I am before, I always come home happy.

Another way is to get outside and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. I have a husband who hates the outdoors, but even if you hate it, if you forced yourself outside with the intent on finding one beautiful thing, you might surprise yourself at what you find. If you can’t go outside? Look out your window. What do you see? There is something about the earth, the beauty of it that brings peace and even joy.

I could go on, but I’m interested in finding out what you, the readers, believe finds happiness. I think the answer may be very different, but I also think we may find some similar truths that apply to everyone.

Thanks for being my guest today, Shanna. Sometimes after years of searching, we find that what really made us happy was right under our nose. The little things bring me the most joy. To visit Shanna's personal blog click HERE.

Next week my guest blogger will be L.T. Elliot.