"Women Who Write" folder on the Club News message board
Subject: "Women Who Write" archive
Author: lots of people
Uploaded By: THopeB
Date: 9/2/1995
File: Women Who Write archive (262481 bytes)
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This is an archive file of the "Women Who Write" folder on the Club News message board. All message boards are found in the Writers Club Message Center. The postings in this file date from 4/23/95 to 5/30/95. Enjoy!
8/27/56 2:18:29 PM Opening ÒSystem Log 8/27/56Ó for recording.
Subj: Re:Fear of Success??? 95-04-23 10:11:37 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
I'd never considered the fear of failure. I don't think that's ever bothered me. It's kind of an "attitude." I can objectively look back on my life and certainly see where I have failed, but I tend to retain the happier, successful times. When I started interviewing a few of the veteran actors and actresses in Hollywood I'd go into these gorgeous homes and think..."My God...I'm nobody...I have not acheived the kind of success these people have...I guess I must be a loser." However, then I look at my five children and how much I enjoy being with them and talking and laughing with them and I figure..."Well...maybe I'm not such a loser after all." I do sincerely believe that you can certainly have a wonderful flair for writing when you are young...but I do believe you must have lived and experienced life...reached some sort of plateau, as the priorities begin to take their proper place. Then you wake up and take a deep breath...see the sunrise and you think it really doesn't get much better than this..and you look forward to the day and the sunset as it ends...that gives way to the stars and the moon. Give me some good Celtic and classical music...a CD...some earphones and mother nature and I'm on a trip. Keeps things in their proper prospective.
LelaJune
Subj: Thanks for help - need another 95-04-23 12:29:54 EDT
From: JoanL1124
Posted on: America Online
Thanks to all of you who answered my query for info about small mid-western towns. I got what I needed about Ottawa, IL - for those of you who know where that is.
Now I need one more piece of info. Are there any divorce lawyers around who might know how long it takes to get a legal separation in IL? (No kids, no real contested assets) Thanks in advance and please E-Mail me as I don't get to this folder as often as I'd like. (Must write to make a living - such as it is)
Joan Elizabeth Lloyd
Subj: Success and Writing 95-04-23 12:52:58 EDT
From: TalYof
Posted on: America Online
It's been a while since I've browsed thru this folder. In fact, the Jugglers' group we've created has been so wonderful and fulfilling, that along my AOL writers' groups, it has kept me busy.
However, I was almost suprprised to see the change in me and my perception of myself as a writer since I first posted a message here in January. Here I am, only a few months later, and I've already finished the first draft of my second novel, and I no longer question whether I'm a writer--or even an author (albeit yet unpublished.) Hotel Sputnik is now out searching for a home, and Splintered Justice practically wrote itself. (Both under the category of Intelligent Women Fiction. Is there such an official category? What books do you suggest fall under this category?)
The feedback I've recieved about my personal essays and short stories from my AOL friends must have contributed to this change in my perception--and have encouraged me to pursue my new craft.
Funny thing is, I've had my share of successes in my previous life (before writing, that it,) and I didn't go into this new stage for that big coup of the S word. But now, all of a sudden, I think that eventually, my scrap book will have records of my published writing history (if that's how we define writing success, which I'm not yet sure of.)
Best to you all, Tal
Subj: Re:Fear of Success??? 95-04-23 14:00:28 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Penny~
Which is why I eventually just push up my sleeves and tackle the assignment ;-). I *do* deal with feelings of inferiority and a lack of confidence in myself and my abilities - - I agree that a lot of that is a fear of success (combined with a fear of failure). But if one becomes "frozen" by the fear, failure is assured.
I am reminded of a scene in Chariots of Fire. The Jewish runner has just watched the precher go through the paces around the track. This is the first "real" competition he's faced - and he's angrily afraid. He tells his girlfriend, "If I can't win, I won't run."
She turns to him and states baldly, "If you don't run, you can't win."
Peace,
Leese
Subj: Re:Success and Writing 95-04-23 14:07:43 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Tal, I'm glad that the jugglers group has helped you as much as it's helped me. What's great is finding
a group of women who take you seriously when you
say "I am a writer" even if you sometimes feel like
an imposter.
Thanks everyone! Carolyn
Subj: LESBIAN WRITERS 95-04-23 14:10:35 EDT
From: Skydi1
Posted on: America Online
I am very interested in getting in touch with any Lesbian writers. My daughters lover is a writer and would like to know other women who write in this genre. Please e-mail private responses. Thanks so much!
Diane ;-)
Subj: Re: Success in writing 95-04-23 16:13:00 EDT
From: DARK PRINT
Posted on: America Online
Two thoughts on success - I went to BGSU and earned a BA in psychology. You would think I would --know-- now not to fear success, but I still do. Four years of training, and although I can spout out the correct answers, my inner feelings haven't changed.
Leese - your quote reminded me of my official AOL quote (lifted from Wayne Gretsky!) "You miss 100% of the shots you never took!"
Kelly
Subj: Re: Success in writing 95-04-23 21:57:29 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
Subj: "I'm a writer"
Date: 95-04-22 11:10:09 EDT
From: Fransel
To: All
From the recomendations on this board, I've gone to the library and got The Artist's Way. I've started the morning pages this am. I looks like this is a book I'll have to spring for. The process is definately going to take longer than the 2 wks the library allowed it to be in my posssession.
Remember the discussions about how comfortable or not we are about attaching "I'm a writer" to ourselves? Those thoughts keep coming to my mind. At first, I didn't want to tell any one I wrote, but I did because I felt I had to justify staying home and not going to a 'real job.' I don't have kids at home any more, so.... Anyway it worked for me. I could say, I'm working on this or that. I actually got a few things published in the newspaper where I live. There, I *was* working, see? True I felt a little embarrassed to say they couldn't yet read my book. "Not published, but will be someday," I'd declare. Well, now I've run into a problem. I'm designing brochures, logos, helping small business with ad copy. No problem right? Wrong. I'm afraid to charge them a decent rate! Inside I think, I'm not good enough, I'm self taught. How can my work be worth anything? I'm afraid they will go to a *real* designer or printer or their neighbor's kid who has Print Shop. EVEN WHEN THEY SAY THEY LOVE IT! Never mind that I've spent my inheritance on a laser printer, a 486 computer with upgrades and fancy fonts, clipart and now a new DTP program! ( I'm the one who was asking about scanners. I still haven't made the leap) Nuts--are all or most writers nuts?
Sign me Fransel, so puzzled I'm going to go out and buy some Milanos.
Subj: The Artists Way 95-04-23 22:29:02 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Fransel, you'll love the Artist's Way. It is definately
worth purchasing --- the hard part is doing it every day but before you know it you'll be finding a part of yourself again. This book saved my life in many ways and I can not recommend it enough. The highlights of the book are that we all have to nurture our creative selves in order to be creative and that in many ways creativity is a spiritual practice. By doing the exercises over the 12 week program I started to believe in myself again. In fact, it's been about 6 months since I finished it and I'm thinking about doing the ARtist's Way program again just to keep me on track. Carolyn
Subj: Just Today 95-04-23 23:36:16 EDT
From: Bulldoglvr
Posted on: America Online
Today I caught up on all the messages. What a good feeling it is to be among friends!
The comments on job-quitting hurt somewhat. I do feel guilty that others are out of work. However, for right now in Colorado you can get a job doing just about anything. Heck. The Subway shop will pay you a bonus just to show up for work. They are desperate for people just to work! That I really don't mind doing if it allows me to tackle my dream.
Maybe I'm just going through an early mid-life crisis? I want to live my dreams now, not 10 years from now. I have so many stories inside me and no time to put my stuff on paper. Yes, I am lucky to have a writing job...but that's what it is to me...a writing job. I am in a very select market and it's hard to get writers in my field so I do feel fortunate and guilty...However, I was raised with parents who taught "you can do anything."
Lucky for me, as long as we keep the roof over our head, the husband, dogs and cat fed, and a round of golf for my man...I am supported in taking off on my dream!
Sweet ones to you all tonight!
Subj: Re:Writing help, life help 95-04-23 23:52:55 EDT
From: Lajam1
Posted on: America Online
Happy Sunday evening to all; sure do love these "sharings," that sound sooooo familiar. I bought The Artists Way after first reading about it in the Writer's Block board. It is wonderful and I recommend it to any of you who fear anything. It is meant for anyone who wants to develop any kind of creativity. I am on the second lesson, faithfully doing my morning pages. Already stories are coming to me from the oddest places, not from only within, but from people who have stories that won't be recorded unless I do it. Blessings to everyone. LJ
Subj: Re:Fear of Success??? 95-04-24 01:41:54 EDT
From: Strywever
Posted on: America Online
Penny, LelaJune, Carolyn et al.:
May I suggest you read "Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway" by Susan Jeffers, Ph.D. (Ballantine)? I've almost finished it, and even though this first time through was just a quick read, I'm alread learning from it.
It's helping me re-train my subconscious to think "I *can* do it," rather than "I *can't* do it," to understand that everyone--even the very successful!--feel fear, and to put my fear to work for me by using it as a pointer to growth opportunities. It's also helping me to understand that there really isn't any such critter as failure--only paths that may differ from what we expected.
For example, so what if I don't sell a story? I learned from writing it, so I'm a winner even if it doesn't sell! Maybe I sharpened my skills so my next story will be even better. Maybe I learned that I really would rather write novels or non-fiction. Maybe I learned that I can't write, and that I should be doing something else. No matter what the outcome, I succeed because I learn from the experience of doing something.
The book offers very specific tools and methods to recognize and work through your fears, whatever they are. Good luck! :-)
Christine
Subj: GUESS WHAT?? 95-04-24 13:28:55 EDT
From: RSLatham
Posted on: America Online
Peggy, Lisa, June, Leese, & everyone on WWW~
Just wanted to tell you...
I got my first assignment today!!! I had finally gotten the courage to send out a query letter and I got the assignment !!!! I am SO EXCITED!!!
So this means that we are not just fooling ourselves, we can all do this! : )
Thank you to all - I get my inspiration from all of you ladies.
Rachel : )
Subj: Re:GUESS WHAT?? 95-04-24 14:14:18 EDT
From: DARK PRINT
Posted on: America Online
Congratations, Rachel! I can tell how excited you are from your post, as you well should be!
Kelly
Subj: Re:GUESS WHAT?? 95-04-24 16:08:02 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
:::::::wild applause, whistles and cheering::::::::::
Congratulations, Rachel!!! Wow. It's *wonderful* news! Thanks for allowing us to share the celebration with you!
Leese
Subj: Re:GUESS WHAT?? 95-04-24 16:10:19 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations Rachel and may this be just the start of future success! Carolyn
Subj: Okla. City 95-04-24 16:13:35 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
I'm sorry to bring this up but something just happened to me here on AOL that I had to share with
someone. I went to the talk board regarding the Ok. City bombing --- and there were several people on there who were saying quote "Tim McVie is a hero!"
There was also rampant speculation that the US gov't really is behind the bombing so quote "they can take away our personal liberties." This wasn't one or two posters but several! It was so scary I almost cried.
ARE THESE PEOPLE FOR REAL? YIKES!
Thank goodness for the sanity on this board!
Carolyn
Subj: crazies 95-04-24 16:34:25 EDT
From: SEDWilkins
Posted on: America Online
Yes, sadly, they are real, and there are too many of them! One thing this reminds us of is the power of the written word. People believe what they see in print--which is why as writers we work so hard to make our words accurate, moving, and (I hope) constructive. I'm grateful for the sanity here, too! Keep building, keep reaching, keep believing! -Sally
Subj: Re:Misc. 95-04-24 19:40:32 EDT
From: WestmorJW
Posted on: America Online
I've been gone for five days and it felt like a year! It's so much fun to read the postings and hear everyone's news. Congratulations Rachel! All the discussion about fear of success and fear of failure and being afraid to think you might be able to do something rings so true to me. I spent years being a lawyer and all the time having to pretend (I thought) because otherwise people would know I was a phoney. But, I was a very good lawyer. The pretending helped me believe and finally I did believe that, and know it to be true. I'm good enough . . I'm strong enough. . . etc. etc. A good quote to remember is: The only difference between success and failure is that with failure you have fewer re-writes!
I listened to the radio in my car on my way home today and heard about the crazies. They are real, but I am SURE they are few in number. We must respond when we hear some of these crazy things. The media gives them far too much attention, and then it generates the hate we saw exhibited in Oklahoma City. There are millions and millions and millions of people who are not hate-filled; who are educated enough to know that our govenment did not blow up a government building and all the other trash we hear; who are concerned; who care about their children and their families and their neighbors and their work associates. Look at all the women on this board who care! I believe we are in the majority.
Thanks all for being here.
Subj: Archived 95-04-24 20:17:07 EDT
From: THopeB
Posted on: America Online
Just to let everyone know that the postings in this folder have been archived (from 3/1/95 to 4/22/95). The archived file will be available to be downloaded from the Writers Club Nonfiction library in 2-3 days.
Tracey, Writers Club
Subj: Re: All right Rachel! 95-04-24 20:22:24 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
Rachel - so excited to hear about your first assignment. Way to go! I'm so happy for you.
LelaJune
Subj: Re: On being a *real* ------- 95-04-24 20:43:10 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Fransel-- with regard to being a *real* designer, here are my thoughts: you apparently don't believe in being *self-taught* perhaps? Or that *self-taught* can be not only GOOD ENOUGH (as judged by the pleasure in and value of your work accorded you by your clients?) but creative? I go through this too about writing fiction, which I love but often think: oh I can't be a *real* fiction writer because I haven't taken courses, don't have a background in literature, didn't do an MFA. Even though people whose opinions and knowledge of fiction-writing I respect have told me I write well-- and sometimes I DO know it myself.And I know I have a lot to learn too but there are many ways of learning. And some sources are even inside of us! Years ago, I started doing something I had no training for whatsoever and thought I never could do: teaching adults. One of my close friends who is the brightest woman I know, a professor of philosophy at a Midwestern University who has won many awards for her teaching, told me she thought I would be a wonderful teacher; I told her she was crazy. Then considered WHO was saying this to me, asked her why, and listened! I still thought I could never do it, suffered profoundly the first time I taught (over-prepared to the hilt!),and still suffer sometimes but over time discovered I am a really good teacher! I am still shocked by this, totally. The skills I have in other areas carried over, I learned a lot by doing and by listening to feedback (listen to your clients, Fransel!!!) but also I created something-- when I didn't know how, I made it up!
I am not in anyway disdaining formal training of any kind; I've had lots of it myself in other areas and value it deeply. But there are LOTS of ways to learn, to grow, to develop and sometimes, just like the old creation myths written by humans for thousands of years who set themselves the task of imagining how the WORLD began, we get to create-- ex nihilo sometimes. And it works! So listen to your clients who LIKE your work (I'm saying this to myself too) and take it in; let at least some of your *standards* by which you judge yourself come from the people who are pleased with what you do.
End of sermonette. :)
Kathie
Subj: Re:GUESS WHAT?? 95-04-24 20:45:07 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Rachel!! and thanks to YOU for being an inspiration to us all!
Kathie
Subj: Re:GUESS WHAT?? 95-04-24 21:21:26 EDT
From: Bulldoglvr
Posted on: America Online
Just wanted to add my "way to go" Rachel! It makes me feel so good that the dreams I have can come true!
Speaking of dreaming...I look forward to visiting the board again in 10 days...I'm headed to Hawaii for vacation. Now doesn't that seem like a dream! Hopefully I'll come back well rested -- I'll need it as I plan to start mailing and studying the freelance market!
Aloha....or some such word!!! Write you all in 10 days and will miss you!
Subj: Re:GUESS WHAT?? 95-04-25 00:16:48 EDT
From: Wiley 5
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Rachel! You're doing so well! I'm happy for you and proud of your taking the action that resulted in the assignment. Good luck! And now - breathe! : )
Peggy
Subj: Yet another HOORAY! 95-04-25 00:23:13 EDT
From: EL Coleman
Posted on: America Online
Way to go, Rachel! A success for one of us is a success for all! Just time to whirl through the last two days' postings, and as usual, they are inspiring and sustaining. Bought THE ARTIST'S WAY this afternoon and can't wait to begin it. Thanks, Penny, for your thoughts on fear of success and God-given talents. I've been listening to Catherine Ponder's OPEN YOUR MIND TO PROSPERITY SEMINAR (excellent tapes, applicable to any endeavor and especially appropriate for writers). My gratitude to all of you in WWW for your strength and sanity, your creativity and intuition. Here's to a great writing week! Elaine
Subj: Re:Okla. City 95-04-25 08:10:22 EDT
From: DeISIS
Posted on: America Online
yes, i'm afraid many of these people are for real--loons with guns. they believe things like the United Nations is taking over the country and the children, that aliens (the ones who ride in UFOs) are running the U.N., that immunizing kids is a plot (too many plots to recount here), and, of course the old stand-bys that there's a Jewish conspiracy to mix the races, etc, etc. it's almost laughable, but not when they get elected to public office and feel perfectly justified in killing people who disagree with them.
i'm sorry to ramble about this, but i've been warning folks about these so-called "patriots" for a long time. i am sick to death of these fascists. but they show us that we, too must exercise free speech and counter their hateful nonsense. Keep Writing!
Subj: Re:Okla. City 95-04-25 08:11:27 EDT
From: DeISIS
Posted on: America Online
yes, i'm afraid many of these people are for real--loons with guns. they believe things like the United Nations is taking over the country and the children, that aliens (the ones who ride in UFOs) are running the U.N., that immunizing kids is a plot (too many plots to recount here), and, of course the old stand-bys that there's a Jewish conspiracy to mix the races, etc, etc. it's almost laughable, but not when they get elected to public office and feel perfectly justified in killing people who disagree with them.
i'm sorry to ramble about this, but i've been warning folks about these so-called "patriots" for a long time. i am sick to death of these fascists. but they show us that we, too must exercise free speech and counter their hateful nonsense. Keep Writing!
Subj: Re:Yet another HOORAY! 95-04-25 08:12:57 EDT
From: LisaMuse
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Rachel! I just logged the past couple of days' postings and caught sight of your great news! Your success has helped me feel a little better (I'm at home with a terrible cold today)! Keep riding that wave!
Subj: Re:Hello Out There... 95-04-25 10:40:06 EDT
From: Marilyn159
Posted on: America Online
I've been lurking here for a bit and wanting to join your wonderfully warm and encouraging group.
Up until four years go I was head copywwriter with a major publisher, writing and overseeing paperback book cover copy and flap copy for between 30 and 45 books a month. It was a job I had for about 13 years. Before that I published book reviews and articles. But the inhouse job was so demanding that I haven't done any "real" writing in a long time. The work I was doing in publishing was so highly specialized that it doesn't seem to translate well into other areas jobwise. And now that I'm out in the world again, I'm having a difficult time shifting gears, finding a way to redirect myself. I almost feel like I've never written at all and seem to have a lot of resistance against packaging and marketing myself.
I've been working with The Artists Way, trying to do those morning pages and they do help. I've always put my creative work off, thinking that I'd do it later. Well, it is later. And it would be wonderful to have some support and to exchange with you any help I might have to offer.
Subj: Help! 95-04-25 16:30:35 EDT
From: Lo94
Posted on: America Online
Hello, everyone. I have been reading the postings, but this is first time I have posted a note. Are there guidelines for this bulletin board
about topics?
I guess I'm not sure where to start. I am currently working on a
book, but don't consider myself a writer, yet. I have not published
anything. I had the idea of writing a book about my life (I was in an
abusive marriage for close to five years) for a long time, but have just
recently been working more seriously on it. And, this has happened
because I am unable to work due to a disability. I have chronic pain,
which severely limits my activities. Lately though, I have been feeling
like it is a waste of time-I'll never finish it, and no one will ever want to publish it.
Has anyone else felt this way? How did you deal with? I would
appreciate any suggestions. Thanks.
Lorraine
Subj: Re:Help! 95-04-25 17:27:45 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Dear Lorraine,
Of course we've all felt this way, at least some of the time. Speaking for myself, I often think oh no one will want to read this, it will never be published-- even though I have published. The most effective way I've found to deal with this (yet another inner critic who isn't helpful at all!) is to tell myself a) just do the work and b) then let someone else help and/or decide if it's publishable. I usually underrate myself which I've learned over time; other people are more encouraging and supportive of my work than I can sometimes be-- so I've learned to listen more to others-- some others anyway, those whose voice I trust to be both knowledgeable and truthful. So DO your writing; tell the story you have to tell. And find others who will read it and help you both in terms of encouragement and with finding your way to full realization of what you have to say. There are people out there to draw from; this board and our chats and workshop are full of them! Read through the posts and you'll see that the rest of us struggle with self-doubt, *writer's blahs*, blocks, etc. too. And there are also a lot of things to celebrate, triumphs of the spirit both small and large. Your voice is just as important as any other!
Kathie
Subj: Re:Help! 95-04-25 17:32:32 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
P.S. I think just about DAILY that I will NEVER finish the book I am working on now. I wrote my first book in five months. This one so far has taken six years. Each work is a different process, like some crazy, unique pregnancy with its own gestation period. Very slowly this creature I am working on IS actually getting done, and sometimes I like it a lot. As someone in a chat said to me once, just keep DOING it.
Kathie
Subj: Re:Help! 95-04-25 20:02:10 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Hang in there Lorraine. Just keep writing, writing, writing. It's always worth it to get things down on paper --- even if you never finish. Believe me, some days I feel overwhelmed as well --- today, for instance I felt like just staying in bed with a good book but this is my one full day of the week to write so I had to haul myself over to the computer anyway.
Get Natalie Goldberg's book(s) Writing Down the Bones or Wild Mind --- both have some good exercises to keep you going when you want to quit!
Welcome to WWW! Carolyn
Subj: Re: Being a writer 95-04-25 20:26:03 EDT
From: WHDancer
Posted on: America Online
Hi everyone! I'm new here, and so far it feels like home. I've read Writing Down the Bones, and lots of other books about writing. I'm currently reading and doing The Artist's Way. I've been writing consistently for several years and have had two articles I submitted accepted for publication. I have been writing papers in graduate school for the past two years and only last week I asked one of my classmates a question and he said in response..."Well, Susan, that's because you are a writer." That was the first time in my life I ever really took that in and thought oh, yeah, I AM A WRITER. It is amazing to me how others see us more clearly than we see ourselves sometimes!
So, I'll be checking in here to begin associating with all you other writers out there...
Susan/WHDancer
Subj: Re: Being a writer 95-04-25 22:50:59 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
And a gracious good evening to you all fellow "wordsmiths." Enjoyed today's posts..and welcome Lorraine. Not to worry - I've been married to a functional alcoholic for 31 years and I'm still functioning. Still like old Al Franken's Stuart Smalley..."I've good enough, I'm smart enough,and doggone it...people like me!" Guess what?...I also have chronic bursitis in a hip....an old secretaries occupational malady. It get's kind of rough sometimes, but I keep finding a few more mountains to climb.
I do certainly embrace our earlier discussion of "fear of success"..."low self-esteem"...the old Garth and Wayne...flailing of the arms..."I'm not worthy!...I'm not worthy!.. but as much as I feel I'm a poor writer...I keep copies of all the narratives, retrospectives, stories...even letters...and absolutely enjoy reading them myself. I didn't even realize I did this until tonight. If I'm bored I pull out something I've written and kick back and read it...and usually enjoy it!
Last year I interviewed a veteran comedy writer, Paul Keyes, in California and he said that you must keep re-writing and rewriting and rewriting. He said absolutely everything can be written in fewer words. He told me to start not with stories...but ideas for stories...start out with about three pages and pare it down to one paragraph. Now that's a challenge.
Anyhow...welcome Lorraine and good luck on your writing.
LelaJune
Subj: Welcome aboard! 95-04-26 00:17:33 EDT
From: EL Coleman
Posted on: America Online
Lorraine: You're not alone! I often feel discouraged. I've been experiencing mild writer's block since my nonfiction book came out last summer. All I've managed to produce is one measley article. I do write and edit for a living, but I don't count the bureaucratic stuff I have to crank out. I've started a mystery, am gathering material for another nonfiction book...but basically, I am stuck and discouraged. I know I'll get out of this "woe is me" mode before long, and I'm sure you will too. WWW is such a great help. Glad you've joined us! Elaine in Santa Fe
Subj: GREAT NEWS!!!! 95-04-26 15:27:37 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
I just had to share some fantastic news. I just received an assignment to write a feature article for
Business Start-Ups magazine, a sister publication of
Entrepreneur Magazine! I am hyperventilating! Maybe I am not condemned to writing about farm animals and children for the rest of my life!!
Yeeeeeeeeek! Now I really have to prove I can do it!
Thanks to everyone for being there! Carolyn
Subj: Re:GREAT NEWS!!!! 95-04-26 16:07:55 EDT
From: DARK PRINT
Posted on: America Online
That is terrific news, Carolyn! I just ordered a sample copy of that mag last week - it sounds intriguing. Now I'll have to get a copy of the issue with your article in it!
Kelly
Subj: Re:GREAT NEWS!!!! 95-04-26 17:09:46 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
Carolyn,
Congratulations on your great news!!!! Don't forget the goats and kids....they already proved you could do it!
() () () () () () ()....Laurie
Subj: Re:GREAT NEWS!!!! 95-04-26 19:50:39 EDT
From: LisaMuse
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Carolyn! That kind of news will knock those blues to ... you know where! Welcome, Marilyn and Lorraine, to this wonderfully supportive board! I'm relatively new here, too, and I've met the most generous and talented women through this board. Stick around -- their inspiration and success is contagious!
Oh, Lorraine, try some Milanos. Just trust me on this one!
Electronic hugs to all!
Lisa :)
Subj: Re:GREAT NEWS!!!! 95-04-26 21:18:24 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Kudos and a brown paper bag to catch your breath in, Carolyn! Way to go (though I also like the goats)! :)
Kathie
Subj: Re:GREAT NEWS!!!! 95-04-27 01:10:57 EDT
From: Wiley 5
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Carolyn! I'm happy for you and obviously someone knows that you can write about more than goats! Let us know when it's coming out - we'll all buy a copy or two to boost their sale rates, and you'll be in great demand! : ) You're on your way!
I hope it's contagious - both you and Rachel in one week! : )
Peggy
Subj: This Folder "Breathes" Success 95-04-27 08:39:35 EDT
From: GerrCO
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations to all of you who are experiencing successes, small and large. I checked in about a month ago, moaning about my howling cat (aptly called "yowling muse" by Kathie, I believe), who was waking me in the middle of the night. Since the cat & I settled into our new abode, he has been just fine overall, minor episodes only.
I empathize with those of you who are at crossroads--do I keep the job or take the writing plunge? I've taken the plunge, more than once actually. When I was younger (in my 30s), the typical way I gathered momentum to make a change was to get so absolutely miserable I almost had no choice! Then I'd just do it. Now I tend to take action before I reach that state (sometimes a minute before, sometimes I don't get to the truly miserable stage at all--I just say I'm out of this).
You keep making the choice, however, in order to work toward the life arrangement that lets you do your writing. Unless you're independently wealthy, the low grade anxiety over money won't go away (nor will the overhead, no matter how much you simplify).
Right now I have a chance to take on some work that I could comfortably juggle but within a month, when another project kicks in, I'd be over extended. What to do--take this opportunity now, which gives the bank account a much needed boost, but which is at the client's site and means bye bye writing time for now and frenetic activity later. Or do I beg off. So a choice has to be made.
What's my point? If we do make the big leap so we can devote more time to writing, we need perhaps to be prepared for many additional crossroads. And we may need to be aware of other kinds of resistance. From out there and from within. You may long for the day when you sat in a boring meeting then got paid for it.
For me, it always returns to this--there's never been anything else I wanted to do more than writing. If that's you, over time you'll find a way to honor it in the way, to the extent you can. Be gentle with yourself if you can't quite devote all of you to it right now.
I drink the encouragement in this folder; thank you all. Keep writing!
Gerri
Subj: Re:This Folder "Breathes" Succes 95-04-27 09:09:39 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Gerri-- thanks for YOUR encouragement and for reminding us that making the choice to devote as much time as possible to writing is an ongoing process. I just sat down this morning to tackle my neverending book yet again and it helped to be reminded that there are others who experience both inner and outer resistance, the 'low-grade anxiety' over money that you speak about, etc. yet still choose and rechoose to make writing possible. If I worked very hard today, I could finish a chapter-- which would leave me with only 1 and 1/2 to go. When I finish this book, folks, I am going to light up this board with fireworks of celebration (and send Milanos to you all!) :)
Kathie
Subj: Re:GREAT NEWS!!!! 95-04-27 11:07:11 EDT
From: RSLatham
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations Carolyn!!
:::::wild applause:::::
What great news for you!!
Rachel
Subj: Small Triumphs (I Did It!) 95-04-27 13:08:13 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
I DID IT!!! Finished one more chapter on the book from hell (for those who don't know me, I've been working on this book for six years)! Before noon even. It just happened, for once, just flowed. One and a half chapters plus half a conclusion (plus footnotes--groan; but I';m not thinking about that today) to go! O yippee doo! Milanos for everyone-- and thanks again for ALL I have learned here, all the encouragement to just keep doing it, etc. etc.
Ecstatically,
Kathie
Subj: Re:Small Triumphs (I Did It!) 95-04-27 13:53:07 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
Bravo, Kathie!!!!!!!
Oh, the next chapter is due at 12:02 pm ET Friday : )
Laurie
Subj: Triumphs! 95-04-27 14:58:27 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
kathie, don't think of progress as a small triumph - just think of it as TRIUMPH!
I have another reading suggestion for everyone. Try and find a copy of Composing A Life by Mary Catherine Bateson. It may be out of print so I'll give you the jist of it here.
Bateson is the daughter of Magaret Mead. The book
suggests that life in and of itself is a creative process, not to be confined to narrow dictates. She tells the life story of five women who have had to make changes in their personal and professional lives. It is an excellent book for anyone who feels like you don't know where your life is headed. Here's an excerpt:
"This is a study of five artists engaged in that act of creation that engages us all - the compostition of our lives. Each of us has worked by improvisation, discovering the shape of our creation along the way, rather than pursuing a vision already defined...Even those who work on factory production lines must craft their own lives, whether graceful and assured, or stunted and askew. Today, the materials and skills from which a life is composed are no longer clear...
Our lives not only take new directions; they are subject to repeated redirection...just as the design of a building or of a vase must be rethought when the scale is changed, so must the design of lives...
This is a book about life as an improvisatory art, about the ways we combine familiar and unfamiliar components in response to new situations...Sometimes a pattern chosen by default can become a path of preference. ..Many of societies casulties are men and women who assumed they had chosen a path in life and found that it disappeared in the underbrush. ..All too often, men and women are like battered wives or abused children. We hold on to the continuity we have, however profoundly it is flawed. If change were less frightening, if the risks did not seem so great, far more could be lived. One of the striking facts of most lives is the recurrence of threads of continuity, the re-echoing of earlier themes, even across deep rifts of change...It is time now to explore the creative potential of interrupted and conflicted lives, where energies are not narrowly focused or permanently pointed toward a single ambition. These are not lives without commitment but rather lives in which commitments are continually refocused and redefined...Just as change stimulates us to look for more abstract consistancies, so the individual effort to compose a life, framed by birth and death, and carefully pieced together from disparate elements, becomes a statement on the unity of living. These works of art, these lives, still incomplete, are parables in process...."
Subj: Re:Small Triumphs (I Did It!) 95-04-27 17:00:42 EDT
From: SCUBBAHEY
Posted on: America Online
Congrats!!!
I've been long-absent from you, but you've been on my mind... have been going through hospital stuff, am now on the mend, and looking forward to downloading your wonderful words.... Best to all of you, I'll be back online in a few weeks. Stace.
Subj: Re:Triumphs! 95-04-28 00:20:49 EDT
From: Wiley 5
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Kathie! Amazing what a little encouragement mixed in with threats & a whip will do re incentive & inspiration! Good work! And thanks, the Milanos were much appreciated. : )
Peggy
Subj: Re:Triumphs! 95-04-28 00:25:43 EDT
From: EL Coleman
Posted on: America Online
WAY TO GO, Kathie and Carolyn!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Your successes made my evening.Thanks, everyone for sharing. Elaine
Subj: See-ya! 95-04-28 10:07:54 EDT
From: RSLatham
Posted on: America Online
WWW~
Way to go Kathie!!!! : )
I'm off to a writer's conference in North Carolina and will return in the middle of next week. I'm excited and nervous...
SO many people will be at this conference. The author of Forrest Gump for one...
I'll be sure to check-in with you all as soon as I return and let you know how it goes. The place is kind of a fancy country club of sorts. I wonder if they will serve Milanos.....
Have a great week and I'll be back!!! : )
Rachel
Subj: More Triumphs! 95-04-28 19:37:16 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
The book is a "go"!!! I'm actually going to be published!!! It's a book about juggling writing, home life, motherhood and marriage ~ but is mainly a soup to nuts, detailed "how-to" ... from organizing your home & office (and family) to query letters tocontracts and everywhere in between.
I really feel very blessed right now. Especially since I am able to share the news with the women who are an inspiration to me (and are the kind of women I am writing the book for). Every time I come into this folder, I leave feeling as if I have been among "friends".
{{{{{{{{{{thanks}}}}}}}}}}}} TO YOU ALL
Leese
and ... um ... not to worry - it's NOT about this folder <bwg> ... no one will be quoted & no information from here will be used ... it's more a basic "how-to" with my own personal anecdotes ;-)
Subj: Re:More Triumphs! 95-04-28 19:56:47 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
Every thing's comin up roses!....Fantastico! I couldn't imagine in my wildest dreams being able to say, "I have a book about to be published." What a trip! Now we will, of course, all want "autographed" copies when it's fresh off the press.
Subj: Re:More Triumphs! 95-04-28 20:42:20 EDT
From: CMI88
Posted on: America Online
congrats! It's an inspiration to all the aspiring for one to make it!
Subj: Re:More Triumphs! 95-04-28 21:00:43 EDT
From: DARK PRINT
Posted on: America Online
Yes, I definitely want an autographed copy of this wonderful book, Leese!
Please let me know as soon as it is available--
Kelly
Subj: Re:More Triumphs! 95-04-28 21:43:04 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
Leese,
Congratulations!!!!! I can't wait to read your book. Please keep us informed about its future release.
Many, many milanos to you!!!
Laurie
Subj: Re:More Triumphs! 95-04-28 22:48:51 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Wow...Congratulations!
It seems to me that there's a certain "magic" happening to the people who read and write in this
board!
Carolyn
Subj: Re:More Triumphs! 95-04-29 00:29:41 EDT
From: WestmorJW
Posted on: America Online
Congratuations! What wonderful news for Sgrief and for Carolyn. It does seem as if this board is enchanted! You'll have to tell us title and publisher so we can all go out and get it!
Julie
Subj: Re:More Triumphs! 95-04-29 01:21:18 EDT
From: Wiley 5
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Leese! It sounds like something we & millions of other women need (at the latest) by Monday. Please provide the title & publisher & date of publication. We need to E-mail our addresses to you for our autographed copies. : ) So many successes! 'Tis magical.
Peggy
Subj: Magical Women 95-04-29 01:41:52 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
:::::blushing:::::
I really meant it when I said I find you all so inspirational. That's the "magic", I think, of this forum. There is such creative energy here. And, I'd certainly LOVE for you all to have a copy of the book, when it's done and out.
It's really something ... I can come in here on days when I am feeling really wiped out and creatively dry ~ or on days when I'm ready to sing and tap dance, and each and every time it seems as though I've made a spacial connection with other people like "me". I mean, who else would understand popping up in bed at 2 a.m. and rushing to the computer with a brilliant idea? Or missing the freeway exit, because you're working and article or chapter out in your mind? Or forgetting laundry for days on end in the dryer... because you put it in, turned the machine on, and sat down to write? Or the agony of w-a-i-t-i-n-g to hear from an editor? The sting of rejection? The frustration of not being able to find the rigth words?
That's the "magic" of this group. We help to bolster one another along the journey. Cheering our successes, and comforting each other when loss creeps in. Sharing creative thoughts and dreams.
Peace to you all!
Leese
Subj: Re:More Triumphs! 95-04-29 13:33:49 EDT
From: CathyDM
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations to all the women who found success in the last couple of weeks--and the ones who see it just around the corner.
I'd like to add my own celebrating to the general joyous noise--I GAVE NOTICE AT MY TOXIC JOB and in one month will be gloriously, deliriously free. I'd been working half-time there for years, trying but failing to improve things. I had a basic ethical disagreement with the organization. It's clear they're not going to change, so I'm jumping ship.
In an earlier message, Shirley pointed out that writers are losing their jobs and should think twice about quitting. However, writers who want to live on a freelance income can free up jobs for the ones who prefer to be more traditionally employed. When I gave notice, another writer in the same organization learned she would be laid off due to some reorganizing. Now it's likely she can simply slide into my job, where she'll probably be a lot happier than I was. If I hadn't left voluntarily, she would have been forced to leave.
I've got technical writing work lined up and have already started it. Because I live simply, can charge a fair amount for my writing, and also make money as a musician, I can live on about 40 billable hours a month. Since I billed almost twice that many hours while also holding down my "real" job, I'm not too nervous about money. What I want now is *time*--and I'm eagerly looking forward to having it!
Cathy
Subj: Re:Still trying... 95-04-29 13:48:46 EDT
From: DorseyL
Posted on: America Online
Try the technical assist number. Insist on a real person. Once you get a live human, they are wonderful. They stopped me ffrom bombing.
Subj: Re:Good news 95-04-29 13:53:41 EDT
From: DorseyL
Posted on: America Online
Enjoyed your message. Didn't know goats were that profitable.
Subj: Re:Good news 95-04-29 18:50:52 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Cathy --- good for you! I know you will find success and happiness doing what your heart desires. Just think positive thoughts, more positive thoughts, and
more positive thoughts.
Carolyn
Subj: Re:More Triumphs! 95-04-29 20:52:10 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
A very huge congratulations to you, Leese! Soon you'll be haunting bookstores, rearranging the shelves so that yours stands out! It IS wonderful and exciting and delicious; we're all so glad for you!
Kathie
Subj: Leaving toxins/embracing risks 95-04-29 20:54:56 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Cathy, on your momentous decision! May you and your writing flourish----
Kathie (and Camelia who never does anything she doesn't want to :) )
Subj: Re:Leaving toxins/embracing risk 95-04-29 21:50:14 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Cathy!
Enjoy your new life and don't look back!
Laurie (who packed up the office and brought it home, so she could find the *time* to write)
Subj: Re:Triumphs! and thanks... 95-04-29 23:36:53 EDT
From: Marilyn159
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations! So much wonderful news here.
And so many thanks to CZLaw for the wonderful post about crossroads. It seems to me that so many times in my life the road I've been on has come to an abrupt end, through no fault of my own . And while it is always, at first, rather liberating, it is also daunting, like trying to chart a solitary path through a wilderness. In the past, I've always found my way through and come out to a better place, and I can only hope it will work that way again. I have often envied those who have had a strong continuity. Sometimes I think that now, at this time in my life, I should be sitting back with old friends and loved ones, going back over mutually cherished memories, not striking out over the next dune for a horizon I can't see and am having trouble envisioning. I struggle against the thought that it is some fault in myself and try to see it as my own way to go, a journey of growth and discovery. And I know that being identified with the last role I played is a factor in finding the way thorny (although, having been through it before, I had tried to put my identity elsewhere, in the larger arena of my life and all the different roles I have played). The threads that have been consistent throughout the years have been teaching and writing. As the sands keep shifting under my feet, I keep hoping that I will find a way to weave those threads into something new and satisfying and find some solid ground to stand on again.
Subj: Re:Triumphs! and thanks... 95-04-30 15:27:45 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Marilyn, try and find the book Composing A Life. I read it when I was in a place similar to yours --- and it helped me realize that sometimes the only way to go forward is to let go of the past....
Carolyn
Subj: The Artist's Way 95-04-30 15:29:51 EDT
From: RDMLocks
Posted on: America Online
Has anyone on this board used the book by Julia Cameron entitled "The Artist's Way"? Would be very interested to know what you think of it and hear about your experience. Thanks.
Subj: Re:Just an Update 95-04-30 16:11:56 EDT
From: LeeHarris
Posted on: America Online
It has been a month since I went online. Just another hectic month in life. Just finished reading the postings and found great inspiration!
It has been trying but through the encouragement of my e-mail pals (Hi, SierraE and Coqetta!) and WWW, I finally have started the final edit of my novel and the outline of my new one. I recently sent the first couple of chapters to someone I met through WWW for a little critique and help. What we did, was set deadlines for each other and that has been a great inspiration. Plus I found that the agent who originally expressed interest in my work is going to be at a workshop soon and my husband has "pushed" me into planning to attend and deliver the manuscript in person.
Spring comes later in the far North, but the sun is shining, the Canadian Skybirds are flying (great jet performances) and it is time for me to plant my tomatoes.
I too am struggling with which way to go. Ten days ago my CEO questioned my commitment to my job, "after all, Lee, you always mention that you want to be a novelist". I am to understand that the quality of my work is better than anyone else in the office and they don't want to lose me, but obviously I prefer spending my time on "other kinds of writing".
In the meantime, I am in the enviable position of leaving my job, if I so choose. I enjoy the type of work I do but I work in a position that will never get any better - it will only continue to exist. I spoke with the owner of the company and he understands my position, suggesting that I go into my negotiations with the CEO trying to hear his position as well as making mine plainly understood. He believes there is a place where both sets of needs can be satisfied. So, today I must write down my goals and positions for negotiations as well as for myself.
I realized that I refused to start the final edit for so long not just as procrastination, but as fear. Perhaps it was fear of success, since I would be forced to give up my technical work in order to continue the series. Perhaps of failure, because I know my job will never go anywhere and I would be destined to just continue with nowhere to go. Perhaps, just because I know that eventually I will end up writing the story of pain that is within me. Indeed, that is the most frightening prospect of all.
But for today, the sun is shining and the kids are rollerblading and I am ble to eat fresh halibut! A great advantage of living in Alaska.
Just to give you a smile - picked up a copy of Alaska Men magazine in the grocery store yesterday. It's for women who are looking to men in AK to get a relationship with and marry. -- My ex-husband was in there!! :) I laughed all day! Lee
Subj: Re:The Artist's Way 95-04-30 16:17:36 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
My understanding is that many of us have it, most have been using it ... and it's great. May I suggest another great book for aspiring and successful writers? "To Build The Life You Want, Create The Work You Love" by Marsha Sinetar
Leese
Subj: Re:The Artist's Way 95-04-30 20:36:44 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
The Artist's Way is great. I did the whole 12 week program and learned a lot about what was really important to me. If you're looking for a good book that is similar in tone but more specifically about writing try either of Natalie Goldberg's writing books - Writing Down the Bones or Wild Mind. Incidently, somewhere on these writers boards, perhaps under fiction? is an entire file dedicated to discussing The Writer's Way. There's also one on Natalie Goldberg. Carolyn
Subj: Re:The Artist's Way 95-04-30 21:22:34 EDT
From: Marilyn159
Posted on: America Online
There is an Artists Way board through The Exchange. Then click on the Community Centers icon, then go to Support Groups/Artists Way. It seems to be minimally active at the moment. Is there another one?
I did read Composing A Life some years ago. Maybe I should go back and read it again. Thanks, Carolyn.
Subj: Re:The Artist's Way/congrats 95-05-01 01:25:38 EDT
From: Lajam1
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations to you Leese--your book sounds great, and I'd love to read it. Give yourself a hug from me.
I'm am starting in on the second lesson of The Artists Way. The first week was full of little miracles that happened just because I really honored my creativity. I'm really sort of flabbergasted. Didn't sell a novel, but I am a beginner and all sorts of opportunities have plopped into my lap I wrote a brochure,and a newspaper article, but the weirdest thing is that people are telling me these wild stories that beg to be written down. I tell everyone I know to buy this book, especially my friends who teach writing in high school.
Love the way you folks write from your heart. And to the writer in Juneau, remember that pain is a pen. It is from places of pain that wonderful stories can be told and can help others heal as well. Happy creating. LJ
Subj: Breathless, Catching Up 95-05-01 10:44:14 EDT
From: Bellesprit
Posted on: America Online
Wow. Have a few days of not getting to read WWW and look what happens.
Hearty & heartfelt congrats to: Carolyn, Kathie, Leese and Cathy -- each with a unique triumph.
Way to go, ladies!!!
Belle ;->
Subj: Congrats 95-05-01 12:12:45 EDT
From: LiseMac
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Leese! And way to go, Cathy! There *has* been some incredible positive energy flowing, maybe it's spring, maybe it's just us! Taking risks, jumping in when you aren't sure if you can swim, isn't that what makes life so much fun? Go for it, girls.
Lise
Subj: Write & Win trip to England 95-05-01 12:46:42 EDT
From: Muddyfish
Posted on: America Online
Women Writers: Get published and win two round trip tickets to England. Judged by literary's most prominent indivduals (ie. Phyllis Whitney, Shannon Drake) this National Essay Contest is asking you to answer "Who Was Daphne du Maurier's infamous character Rebecca?" For more info. call 1/800/722-0726.
Subj: inspiring story 95-05-01 13:48:29 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
I spoke with a woman who writes last night. She has published numerous books and articles. Anyway, she had started collecting photographs many years ago, and decided over time to try and file them - - which turned into a book idea. But she couldn't sell the idea, so shelved it for awhile. But a friend sent her a little card that had a very small publisher's information written on it ... she sent her proposal to the publisher and the book was purchased ~ and became a best seller! Thus a new writing career was launched.
The moral? You never know when success might crep up behind you and tap you on the shoulder.
Peace and productivity to all this week!
Leese
Subj: Wow-- go ladies, go! 95-05-01 14:13:13 EDT
From: SCUBBAHEY
Posted on: America Online
Hi all--
I'm finally out of the hospital, out of my bed and at the computer once again. I just downloaded all of your wonderful news, reading as I went, of course, and got a really big grin on my face-- the first in almost a month! I get to start writing again next week, once all the medication stops-- (I feel far too young to be talking about medication!) Yippee! All your good news inspires me.
Want to briefly mention the wonders of inertia-- before I got so sick, I had lots of irons in the fire, which went on heating up even without me tending them-- I have not one, but three offers to write/co-write screenplays as soon as I'm up for them! So, even if it seems like NOTHING is happening, that it couldn't get any darker -- good things really are around the corner. Let me add me heartfelt congrats and a (figurative) jump for joy for all the success chronicled here! Way to go! Love, Stace.
Subj: CHILDREN,S BOOKS 95-05-01 22:05:26 EDT
From: MMartin181
Posted on: America Online
I am a freelance writer. I write and illustrate children,s books as well as travel articles etc...I use the Professional Adobe Photoshop on my computer.
I am looking for ideas to sell my manuscripts and illustrations
Subj: Stacy and a quote 95-05-02 12:08:10 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
First, Stacy - I must have missed something. I didn't know you were having surgery. I hope it all went well!
Now for a quote I thought you'd all appreciate <g>:
"The test of a vocation is the love of the drudgery it involves." Logan Pearsall Smith (1865-1946)
Peace in those dull moments <g>!
Leese
Subj: Thanks ! 95-05-02 17:41:13 EDT
From: Lo94
Posted on: America Online
Thanks to all for the words of supportit helped. I plan to keep working on my book. If I am not able to write any today, or I just write a few sentences, it's OK. I'll write more tomorrow. And now I know where to come when I need someone to tell me that I can do it. Thanks again.
Sorry it took so long to respond. I have had more doctor appointments lately than I care to talk about. They usually leave me drained, with no energy to do anything. Maybe when I finish my book, I'll write another one about how to survive dealing with the medical profession. I certainly have enough material.
Lorraine
Subj: Re:Artist's Way 95-05-02 20:12:48 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
Don't you think it is more than coincidence that this title keeps popping up? I just started it and the changes have been inspirational. I love doing the pages and did from the start. I all ready had been being (selfish) about garding my time and so some of what Ms Cameron says is not new. But something is working. My energy level is skyrocketing. I'm thrilled, and I'm doubley thrilled so see the path opening for so many of us. Keep on sharing. It can happen to the rest of us. We must persist. Milanos to all and a By line that will buckle our knees.! Fransel
Subj: tonado season 95-05-03 04:37:38 EDT
From: Crazyweed
Posted on: America Online
Tornado season in my brain.
I'm dodging into every ditch I can find.
I think the horizon may be clearing,
but tornadoes are tricky,
worming their way out of the sky
in ones and twos and then
a granddaddy descends,
creating chaos,
leaving the decomposing corpses
of my prior selves in it's violent wake.
In a quiet moment I come out to stumble
over the carnage of my innards,
strewn helter skelter
across the scape of my being.
It is horrific and terrifying.
The storm displaces me.
I become the storm.
I am afraid. Afraid I will be consumed.
Afraid I am starving. The storm always
uproots my crops before fruition.
I am afraid to cry in my grief,
for I may be lost forever.
If I acknowledge the power of the tornadeo
by name I may crawl into a deeper cave of fear than
any I have so far explored,
never finding my way out again.
No string to follow and my crumb path eaten up
by the scavangers of my soul.
Rainbows are no longer credible.
Everything is quiet for the moment so I have
emerged from shelter to a profound calmness
in the absence of the raging winds of my soul.
It could be a lull of hours or years.
:::::::::::::::::::the terrorist lives within:::::::::::::::::::
(C)crazyweed
Subj: Re:Thanks ! 95-05-03 06:57:27 EDT
From: RSLatham
Posted on: America Online
Lorraine~
If you really decide to write something about the medical profession you may want to read "Darkness Invisible" by William Styron. He deals with depression, but a lot of it is about hospitals, medical professionals, drugs, etc. He was a guest speaker at a writer's conference I just returned from...what a wonderful man, and his wife is a charming lady. (His wife is the author of a book a poetry called "By Vineyard's Light"- I'm not big into poetry and I thought it was WONDERFUL)
Good luck to you!
Rachel : )
Subj: I'm back! 95-05-03 07:08:05 EDT
From: RSLatham
Posted on: America Online
WWW~
I just returned from a writer's conference in North Carolina and all I can say is WOW!!!
What inspiration, interesting people, incredible authors, valuable information.... I could go on and on. There was such an exchange of information and comraderie (sp?) between everyone and I would do it again in a minute. I would recommend a writer's conference to anyone!
Let's see....I learned so many different things that I couldn't possibly include them all in one post. After I finish going over my notes, I'll make a few posts with the tidbits I did learn.
Keep your eyes open for the new author JOHN GILSTRAP. I spoke at length with this gentleman and he is beside himself with excitement. He is an unknown who has written a book called Nathan's Run. He has a MILLION DOLLAR DEAL with Harper Collins... the whole thing...book, foreign rights, 13 different languages, a movie deal...well, you get the picture. And he was rejected over 30 times for this book! Just goes to show that dedication counts and you have to find the right place to sell it.
More things I learned to follow....
SO glad to be back!
Rachel : )
Subj: Re:I'm back! 95-05-03 16:29:54 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
Rachel, your enthusiam is catching. What conference? Was it a RWA or other? I'm dropping my membership in RWA. As a mainstream writer I don't feel there is enough for me there. I'm not near a chapter so I can't even go to meetings to hear other writers speak. How do the rest of you feel about RWA? Am I being hasty?
Subj: dazed and confused online 95-05-03 18:14:29 EDT
From: Arabie
Posted on: America Online
I just got my first computer and while I'm battling with it...ugh. I am fascinated with aol. But I feel my time here is very disjointed and unproductive. There is so much here and I don't even know where to begin. I am a waitress for money but a writer at heart. I do freelance work for the alternative papers in town on women's issues and I work on my poems, a novel and short stories when I have time. I would like to know any information that anyone has concerning mastering this system and using it in a productive way. I've been reading the notes here for about a week and it is by far the most comfortable place online. Thank you and if you have any suggestions please send them my way.
Subj: sorry, have to brag 95-05-03 20:04:56 EDT
From: NEWSCAT
Posted on: America Online
Haven't been on this board in awhile, but I had to tell somebody (ies)
I WON!!!
I received confidential notification (can't publish in my newspaper until awards given) that I have won second place in personal column writing competition for the state press association. The column was about the county government's efforts to make the courthouse non smoking and my dad's own fight to continue smoking that probably helped contribute to his death.
This is the first award I've ever won from "my peers" although I did win a first place award from the state school boards' association for column writing in the 1980s.
I"M SO EXCITED
Now (let's be greedy) if I could just win the feature writing award in the other state contest my newspaper entered, the Associated Press Managing Editors.
Subj: Re:sorry, have to brag 95-05-03 20:15:40 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, NEWSCAT!
Subj: More good news 95-05-03 20:26:55 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
I don't want to clog the AOL airwaves with good news about my life but --- just received word that one of my poems has been accepted for publication in a lit. magazine (artisan). This is the first poem i've had published --- and my goal was to get one published before I turned 40. I'm 38 now so I guess I can just slack off for the next two years.
Anyhow: For those of you still waiting to TRY --- Do it! I've spent my whole life dreaming of being a
"real' writer --- but only this year have I started to
ACT like I wanted my dream to come true --- And,
guess what, my dream is not half as good as reality!
BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Carolyn
(PS also, read the WWW board religiously --- magic happens here.)
Subj: Newscat award 95-05-03 20:28:01 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
That is so neat Newscat --- like I said, magic happens here (when we believe it will.)
Carolyn
Subj: Re: WWW & Milanos 95-05-03 20:52:44 EDT
From: PoetLinda
Posted on: America Online
Yesterday while doing my grocery shopping I passed a display of cookies. Three steps beyond the display I stopped, turned and walked back. The word Milanos caught both my eye and imagination. I envisioned a huge graphic with WWW superimposed on a Milano cookie. Then I went beyond a mere graphic and visualized t-shirts, hats and tote bags- all with the WWW/Milano logo. And in a cyberspace manner of speaking I felt a surge of connection with the women who write board.
I found a copy of The Artist's Way and plan to start reading as soon as I finish the wheelbarrow of reports due at work. Congrats to all of you who won awards, published , keep writing. I am trying to put together a book of short stories, Several have been published. I find myself mired down in thinking I'll never get enough stories . Being mired makes it difficult to proceed. This board helps. Every time someone announces success it acts as a prod. Oh..how does one develop discipline?
Subj: Re: WWW & Milanos 95-05-03 21:03:58 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
Discipline: Walking past the cookie aisle without picking up a bag of Milanos.
Lack of Discipline: Turning around and going back to grab a bag.
Undisciplined creativity: Coming up with a great idea about marketing WWW/Milano t-shirts, then making megabucks.
I think this is on Pg. 400 in The Artist's Way : )
Subj: Re: WWW & Milanos 95-05-03 23:36:54 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Maybe we should rename this board --- Milano Magic?
Carolyn
Subj: Re: WWW & Milanos 95-05-04 00:24:22 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Way to go, Carolyn and NEWSCAT! I myself did not pass the Milanos today, bought and ate a whole bag of Mint Milanos (telling myself they were for soul connection with WWW), procrastinated the entire day rather than write a lecture (no time now to work on my book-- boo), and started rewriting Poe's The Raven in my head. Here's the first verse-- anyone want to add to it?
Once upon a midnight dreary,
as I pondered weak and weary
over all the chapters
that I had not writ before.
While, despairing, I was napping,
suddenly there came a tapping,
a distinct, persistant tapping,
tapping at my chamber door.
"Tis Milano Man," I muttered,
"only this and nothing more".
Ok, ladies, WHO was at the door?
:) Kathie
Subj: Re:sorry, have to brag 95-05-04 01:28:39 EDT
From: Wiley 5
Posted on: America Online
It's not bragging! It's sharing & inspiring & encouraging the rest of us. Congratulations! Be proud! You've earned it & deserve it. Enjoy!
Peggy
Subj: Congratulations, Carolyn! 95-05-04 01:31:18 EDT
From: Wiley 5
Posted on: America Online
Wow. Congratulations to you, too! All kinds of wonderful stuff happening here. I believe! And I know that it's magical. Two years to glow & grow - think what you'll do when you're actually 40! : )
Peggy
Subj: Re: WWW & Milanos 95-05-04 02:07:00 EDT
From: Wiley 5
Posted on: America Online
Ah, distinctly I remember it was in the fragrant May;
And each separate budding flower wrought its joy within my heart.
Eagerly I wished the morrow;--vainly I had sought to borrow
From my writing surcease of sorrow--sorrow for lost Milanos--
For the rare and muse-laden cookie whom we name Milano--
Memoralized here for evermore.
Next?
Peggy : )
Subj: Re: WWW & Milanos 95-05-04 03:47:52 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
Stumpy?
Subj: Promised tidbits.. 95-05-04 07:49:27 EDT
From: RSLatham
Posted on: America Online
WWW~
I've started to sort thorugh the notes from the conference, so here is a few things I learned...
1.Re: how to get a literary agents
-have a personal recommendation from another writer of that agancy
-network at conferences to make contacts
-check agent listings in the library for the right agency
-send a one-page letter to the agent stating your case.
-do not pay for "reading fees"
2. The biggest problem with self-publishing is the ability to distribute the work.
3. RE: short stories..
-fragmented availability of markets
-try getting published in a collection of short stories such as FLANNERY O'CONNNER'S COLLECTION
-women's mags are the best bet in the magazine market.
More to follow!!! : )
Rachel
Subj: Re:dazed and confused online 95-05-04 12:43:30 EDT
From: SCUBBAHEY
Posted on: America Online
Hey Arabie--
I too was a waitress by need, writer by desire -- for fourteen years!!! I found this board to be the best in aol, and soon after communicating with the ladies here, I sold a screenplay, and QUIT WAITRESSING!!! So keep going, and welcome to the best (luckiest?!?!) board on aol.... the snacks are great here, too!! Yummy Milanos -- and online, they're 100% non-fattening! Best, Stace.
Subj: Re: WWW & Milanos 95-05-04 13:57:42 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Kathie, LOL!!! You are so great! I will think of who in a second or two...Carolyn
Subj: The Milano Man 95-05-04 16:38:29 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
The Milano Man sighed wearily. His shoulders slumped toward the ground. Too many women writers, not enough Milanos to go around. What was a cowboy to do?
He saddled his horse and rode off into the sunset, headed for Connecticut. Only one woman's image haunted his thoughts, stirred his hidden creativity, and frustrated his lack of decision over what genre he wanted to write. Romance had its virtue, Mystery held suspense, Fantasy appealed to him, but only one woman had ever dared to include him in Poe's finest work.
She was a woman of substance, incredible beauty, graceful style and wit. A goddess among goddeses; she even owned a terrorist cat. Why would such a woman waste time with a lonely drifter like him? It could be the supply of Milanos he kept tucked inside his saddle-bag as he rode swiftly through the darkness to reach New Haven by dawn.
"Oh, Lady, my sweet Lady," his deep voice echoed across the plains. "Promise me you'll finish another damn chapter before I go on...."
Next....
Subj: Re:sorry, have to brag 95-05-04 17:56:18 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
:::::aplauding wildly::::
Congratulations!
Subj: Re:More good news 95-05-04 18:05:57 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Carolyn ... magic does happen here!
Subj: Re: WWW & Milanos 95-05-04 18:09:23 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
<<Oh ... how does one develop discipline?>>
You just do it. Like the Nike commercial. And it can be hard sometimes. We are getting ready to move to Ohio (in 3 weeks) and I got a call from my mom that my step-dad had a heart attack. I had a deadline & had to write an article and fedex it today. I was zombied with all of the stress. Don't know how I did, but my husband said it was good (what else would he say?) - - but I'm not a good judge of that now. It's hard, sometimes.
Leese
Subj: Re:Promised tidbits.. 95-05-04 18:10:53 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Thank you for the information, Rachel!
Subj: Re:The Milano Man 95-05-04 20:08:19 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
LOL, Laurie! You made my day.
The saga of Milano Man continues:
His deep voice and the faint smell of Milanos roused her from her slumber. She woke up abruptly from her position facedown on her computer desk. Reality hit her like her cat's midnight breath.
"gotta write the chapter, gotta write the chapter," she muttered, not knowing that from afar he had planted these thoughts in her head. She'd do anything for cookies and for true love.
" An interesting variant of the ancient god Hades," she wrote, "was discovered by the noted archaeologist Sir Pepperridge Farm in the late 1950's in a cave underneath the modern city of Milan. In an inner chamber, previously underwater until the great drought of 1949, Farm and his colleagues discovered a stone tomb. Prying it open, they found several hithertofore unseen artifacts of a nature consistant with the description of the ancient Greek god: small sculpted figures of his three-headed dog, Cerberus, several pots with pitmarks shaped like grain, and a mysterious box labelled "do not open until 1995 in New Haven, CT'. Knowing they had not come this far just to leave a stone unturned, Farm and his colleagues eagerly pried open the box-- only to be immediately overwhelmed with: The Milano Man's curse!"
She paused. There was that tap-tap-tapping at her chamber door again. Damned raven. But wait! It sounded like the whinny of a horse. A California horse. Could it be? At last? KC meets JC? Quickly she locked her vicious cat in the closet and threw open the door-- at last he had come. The only one who could lift the ancient curse!
And now who can add to the saga?
:) Kathie
Subj: Re:The Milano Man Rides On 95-05-04 20:44:32 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
"Camela," the name rolled off his tongue as if it was a bitter curse.
That green-eyed cat was nothing like the Camilla he knew from days gone by in the Idaho mining territory. Now, that was a woman after his milanos. She was quite a handful, but she left him for a slick Yankee gambler.
The Milano Man had never heard of Sir Pepperidge Farm, or traveled the dangerous trails to Milan, but the sweet woman from CT claimed the mysterious box held the secret to his destiny. Who was he to argue with a shrink?
He stood on the porch of the tawdry building, a thin cigarillo hanging from his dry mouth, then rapped (he was too macho to TAP) on the front door. The Milano Man jumped over the porch railing, climbed the tall oak tree, scaled the rooftop, and ducked into the open window on the second floor.
He peered down at the Landlord from Hell, who waved his custom-made, .45-caliber toilet plunger into the air in a threatening manner. The old man fingered the tool belt draped around his chubby belly as he glanced up at the Milano Man's steely gaze.
"Watch out for the cat!" the slum lord's warning pierced the cowboy's dull senses too late.
Camela pounced, again and again, slashing her sharp claws into the Milano Man's bronzed flesh. Where was Cerberus, the three-headed dog, when he needed him most? Jeez, Kathie, you put the wrong animal in the closet!
Go ahead...make my day : )
Subj: Re:More good news 95-05-04 20:45:05 EDT
From: NEWSCAT
Posted on: America Online
Gosh girl, are we good or what?! Magic? I believe faith, hard work, determination, a little luck and somebody "up there" hoping for the best for us.
Congrats on the poem publication, my goals include selling something to a publication outside my newspaper (even if its a humorous tidbit).
And I'm waiting on the next award competition, we get word within next two months I think....
Subj: And on.......... 95-05-04 22:16:21 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
God, he was hot! She stood in the doorway, drinking in his image: bold, bulging muscles beneath his rawhide shirt, cigarillo hanging from his sensuous mouth, and his hands, his hands-- strangling her terrorist cat.
"My baby!" she cried, reaching for Camelia.
(Cerberus was cowering in the closet.)
"Get rid of this hairy varmit!" he scowled.
Varmit! he actually said 'varmit'. Memories of Roy and Dale, of Gene and Hopalong, of Hi Ho Silver Awaayyyy came flooding back to her. She blushed-- or was it a hot flash? Whatever, she recognized the signs: True Love appeared on her doorstep. But did he bring them?What was that telltale bulge in his pocket? Orange Mint? Or Hazlenut? Was it true? Her prince had come? Could he unlock the secret of the Milano curse or was he just another Cheyenne Kid?
With trembling hands, she opened wide the door.
But he resisted
and as she never heard before,
quoth the M. man, "Nevermore!"
"Quit Fitzin' around," she said with a Wiley grin on her face.
And......?
Subj: Re:And on.......... 95-05-04 23:39:35 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
The Milano Man looked up from his corner of the closet with big brown eyes. Now his secret was out.
He clutched his baby doll closer to his broad hairy chest and said "I am proud of both my masculine AND
feminine sides!"
His mother sneered and spat on the ground. "You'll be the laughing stock of kindergarten if you don't put that doll down right now!"
The Milano man tenderly put down the doll, picked up his pistol and...
Subj: Re:And on.......... 95-05-04 23:54:54 EDT
From: WestmorJW
Posted on: America Online
From the West, more taps, more riders. A thundering herd of Milanos, in saddlebags, backpacks, suitcases, briefcases. Milano Man stepped out of the closet, touched the doll with lingering eyes, fought his way past Camela the terrorist cat, stepped on Cerberus the dog, scratched his way through the door and leaped onto his mount . . .
Subj: Re Also some news 95-05-04 23:56:33 EDT
From: WestmorJW
Posted on: America Online
A personal essay I wrote, entitled Sporting Skills, about fishing, skiing and lieing (lying?) all in one day is being published by Sports Guide in Salt Lake City, one of two lead articles on fishing, in June. Maybe some photos, too! And, I'm being paid. The magic continues. . . . . .
Subj: Re:And on.......... 95-05-05 01:08:07 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
The Milano Man's momma was a good-lookin' woman in her day, and almost as sweet as his Darlin' Kathie, until she put that six-shooter into his hand when he was only 4 years old. The furious woman had dragged him out of cowboy pre-school and ordered him to track down and shoot Lorna Doone, the brazen hussy who ran off with his pappy, Fig Newton.
"No wonder the man is such a flaky cookie," Kathie sighed, bored from reciting Poe to herself throughout the night. She longed to be in his strong arms, pressed against the plastic baby doll he kept hidden inside his buckskin shirt. "But, he'll make a sensitive and loving father for our little milanos."
Kathie pondered their differences. How could she love such a man? He had no understanding of important issues like POV, dialogue, foreshadowing, and the deep symbolism of The Fish Lady. Hell, he wasn't even Jungian.
"Momma's boy!" she muttered bitterly. He had more milanos than a man deserved. Perhaps, she should've accepted Sir Pepperidge's offer to set her up in a stylish condo in Manhattan. The archeologist was a pasty-faced Freudian, but he had lots of money to buy mint milanos and chocolate milk. Such things were more important than the raw sensuality of a rugged cowboy who ran from terrorist cats and stepped on three-headed dogs.
At that moment, Kathie experienced a hot flash (inspirational, not menopausal) and she recalled the scribbled name on her birth certificate: Lorna Doone, brazen hussy of Fig Newton. She ran, shrieking to her Landlord, "Please, please...tell me it isn't so!"
"Yep, it's true!" The slum lord's beady eyes glinted with glee as he rubbed his chubby palms together. "The sonofafig is your half-brother."
the saga continues........
Subj: Re:reading this at 2 am 95-05-05 02:08:22 EDT
From: SNewmark
Posted on: America Online
You have all gone off the deep end--writing wise!
hope no publisher gets a glance at this.......It is the equivalent of soap opera for WWWers....but funny!
Sandi
Subj: LOL & Learning from men 95-05-05 11:00:24 EDT
From: Bellesprit
Posted on: America Online
Trying to sit up straight at computer, bearing weight of world on shoulders, I open the doors to WWW after several days away. Weight is easily shrugged off as I begin to read of triumphs and. . .what's this? A saga unfolds for us. True LOLs as I read of Kathie, Camila & Milano Man. Should we call it "The Bridges of Milano Cookie"?
Also - seriously - thinking that we could learn a few things from men about accepting our triumphs. One of the news magazine TV shows had a feature several months ago on differences in male & female communication. They filmed male business people and female business people communicating in similar situations. One of the things the women did (and often) was apologize: "I'm sorry I didn't understand what you said." "I'm sorry I don't agree with you." "Im sorry I got this great opportunity." etc. A number of messages back Carolyn apologized for bragging (when giving us some great news that we'd certainly all be happy to read). Even more messages back, I remember Elaine (after a wonderful sharing of thoughts and feelings) apologized for writing so much. [I'm not criticizing you ladies by singling you out. I mention you both because I always enjoy your posts, so I particularly took notice when you apologized for something I liked reading.] I certainly recognize this tendency in myself, and I think most women do this to some degree.
I think men, in general, are much better about accepting their triumphs and being who they are and saying what they have to say without apologizing. Of course, most of us would like them to be able to apologize a little more often! ;->
Anyway - just my 2 cents (or, with inflation, should that expression be changed to "Just my 2 dollars"?)
Belle :-)
Subj: Milano Man's Moment of Truth 95-05-05 11:33:34 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
She confronted him the next evening. Absently he patted his baby doll tucked beneath his holster (oh what a liberated man he is, she noticed, sighing, though continuing her harangue) as she revealed what her landlord Sam had told her.
"How could you do this to me, you son of a Newt?" she went on.
"Hey, there, little darlin', don't get political"(she loved how these Western men talked; he was so virile, so studly, so...), "what makes you think it's true? I'm your half-brother? Sonofafig! What makes you believe that beady eyed Sam-I-am?"
She stood her ground but muttered to herself.
"That Sam-I-am, that Sam-I-am, I do not like that Sam-I-am. Can you put him in a jar? Can you lock him in your car?"
She was lost in reverie when he broke into her thoughts, his Cigarillo twitching in that oh-so-sensuous way.
"Don't you really know who I am?" He pulled out the contents of his bulging pocket. Behind him, in a swirl of dust, the herd of Milanos pulled up short and leaned over to eyeball the treasure. There, beneath the corned beef and czlaw sandwich, was none other than-------
Subj: Re:Milano Man's Moment of Truth 95-05-05 12:27:30 EDT
From: LiseMac
Posted on: America Online
Dr Suess?
Hopalong Cassidy?
Fabio?
The Keebler Elves?
Tell me--I can't stand it!!!
Subj: Re:Re Also some news 95-05-05 12:37:43 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Congrats, JW. Celebrate!
Subj: May I join you? 95-05-05 13:12:03 EDT
From: LAHWA
Posted on: America Online
I just finished reading many of the messages posted in this folder, and I enjoyed it immensely. If eating Milano cookies is part of the initiation ritual into this writing "sorority," please consider me an active member. (I also like Pepperidge Farm's Tahoe cookies, too. Try them. They're great!)
I'm a free-lance writer based in Dallas. To pay the bills, I offer a variety of services including promotional writing, technical writing, project management, and public relations counsel. So far, so good. At least I'm not living out of my car yet.
I recently ventured into fiction, and I'm stalled out on Chapter Six of my first novel. Writing a novel is not for weaklings, that's for sure. I'd be interested in hearing any thoughts about getting past this so-called block I'm having.
Thanks. Laura
Subj: Re:Re Also some news 95-05-05 13:12:03 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Yeah Julie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Carolyn
Subj: Re:The Raven continues.... 95-05-05 13:42:58 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
Presently my muse grew stronger; procrastinating then no longer,
"Sir Agent," I said, "or Madam Publisher, truly your patience I implore;
But the fact is I was napping, and so gently you came rapping,
And so faintly you came tapping, tapping at my cyberspace door,
That I scarce was sure I heard you." -- here I opened wide the e-mail
door; --
A single generic Milano and nothing more.
[Don't I deserve a bag of Pepperidge's magic lore?]
Subj: Re:May I join you? 95-05-05 16:51:11 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Welcome Laura! We can always use someone who likes Milanos...
Subj: lurker says hi! 95-05-05 16:52:37 EDT
From: KyPn
Posted on: America Online
I have enjoyed lurking around your folder. The talent here is obvious. I have decided to huddle behind your skirts whilst I lick my wounds. I am tired of researching houses and having them send stuff back saying....oh, by the by, no more unsolicitated.
I have been active in the children's folders, a nifty bunch of writer persons there. I have three children's manuscripts out wandering around in the wilderness, one middle grade mystery with its foot in the door at an agent's and one adult mystery well under way.
Have the dreadful misfortune of being allergic to chocolate but will cheerfully wallow in lattes....Kathy
Subj: Milano Man 95-05-05 17:17:18 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
Oh! Help! I'm laughing so hard I can't type. About braggin'. I think Forrest Gump would say braggin is as braggin does, And you did it!, so there. Magic, magic, magic...it's in the air she hummed as she faded into the sunset to resume her real life chores. :) Fransel
Subj: My query worked!....I think 95-05-05 19:29:20 EDT
From: JCDSmith
Posted on: America Online
Hi everyone!
This board is truly magic. I've always avoided writing query letters, sending articles that were short enough to fit into a magazine's category that didn't require queries --i.e., specific columns, etc. -- but you guys give me so much courage and encouragement just by reading all of your triumphs...so...
I submitted an article without querying and it was rejected BUT the editor invited me to "author some tour articles about my area of the country" (it's a motorcycle touring magazine). So I gritted my teeth and came up with a couple of ideas of interesting trips in my area. She wrote back, very quickly, and is interested! Yipes! Now I have to update my research and get that article in! However, she gave me no time frame, no indication of pay (although according to market books, they do pay and not too badly either!). So I assume that means she wants me to submit the article "on spec" which I am most willing to do. What do you think? Need your expert opinion. Specifically, she says: "Your story idea on touring alongside Old Man River sounds interesting. Please include details on the side trips mentioned in your letter." Does that sound like a 'go ahead' to you? Help!
Subj: Good to be back 95-05-05 20:06:19 EDT
From: Lerquem
Posted on: America Online
Hello all you wonder women who write!
If laughter is the best medicine then I'll be healthy for the rest of my life!
Thanks Kathie and Lauri for the "Bridges of Milano County" - it made my week, my month, maybe even my whole year!
I just got done logging who knows how many posts, and all I can say is- I've been away too long. I don't know how I survived without you WWW! Thanks to all of you who kept in touch while I was recovering. I'm happy to say that I'm 100% now, and actually that's why I haven't checked in for so long- now that I'm better I've been spending all my time catching up on other things- like everything I can do outside. Here in Phoenix the weather is GORGEOUS and has been for at least the last month (Ithink it rained sometime last week but who cares?). We're experiencing a cooling trend now (highs in the 80s and 70s). Those of you who are sick of winter are more than welcome to visit me- we can sit out by the pool, barbeque, write and eat Milanos! I don't have a lot of extra room so you'll have to sleep in the living room with my dogs, but they're sweet and only one of them snores. How about it?
-Laura
Subj: Congratulations! 95-05-05 20:09:18 EDT
From: Lerquem
Posted on: America Online
Congrats to everyone who is getting published or recognized for outstanding work!
::::::::::applause:::::::::::
:::::::::::cheers:::::::::
Although I'm still far away from my goal of simply *having* a completed ms for publishers to reject (or accept), I had an interesting thing happen a few days ago that I wanted to share.
Some of you may know that when I'm not writing (which, unfortunately, has been a lot lately) I'm a grad student. The other day I had to turn in a rough draft of a paper that uses statistics to explain and predict the variance among state policies. I know. Yuk. So I turn in my paper, and my model, and my profeesor (not professor, "profeeeesor" - as in Igor saying "profeeesor, I found you a brain for your experiment"- but, I digress.) Anyway, my professor actually seemed impressed, and -here's the weird part- told me my paper might be good enough to get published! He said he'd have to look into it, but these are journals he publishes in a lot, and just the thought is so exciting I had to share. I'm not expecting anything, in fact I laughed about it all the way home. I mean, I'm working on a novel that I would loved to see published but that's years away, and I whip up this paper and someone says "you should publish this."
Weird. That's what it is...weird.
Maybe I should have my professor look at my novel....
Laura
Maybe I just need a Milano.....
or a Milano Man.......
Subj: Re: Milano Mania 95-05-05 20:39:53 EDT
From: LisaMuse
Posted on: America Online
You gals crack me up! That was the best "saga" I've seen since Erica wooed husband no. 3!
Judy, Congratulations! Take a deep breath and then email me with all the details.......
Welcome to all of the ladies who have recently found the magic muse who resides here (and in all of us)! Congratulations to all of those who are caught up in the magic. I hope, hope, hope that it rubs off on those of us still plugging away!
I recently ordered The Artist's Way and Writing Down the Bones, which are both ready to be picked up. If you don't hear from me for awhile, I'll be reading! My resignation is in the works and as of May 31, I'll officially be an unemployed, unpublished, writer and full-time mom. I'm so thankful that this board is here -- I'll have a feeling I'll be needing some encouragement (probably about June 2!).
Here's hoping we all have a visit from Milano Man soon!
Lisa :)
Subj: Happy "cinco de mayo" ! 95-05-05 21:04:32 EDT
From: EL Coleman
Posted on: America Online
Here in Santa Fe, the city is aglow with 5th of May celebrations ("Cinco de Mayo" is very important in Mexican history, but for the life of me I can't remember the exact details). Trust me. At any rate, it's a great excuse for celebrations all over the city. The mood here in www matches "cinco de may" ! I've been so uplifted this week by the triumphs of all of you and by reading the saga of the Milano Man. Just as the saga seemed to end, a sassy band of Oreos from the frozen North came galloping down the mountains near my house, their eyes aglow with murderous intent, their white trim giving them a jaunty, reckless air. I could tell: they were ready to wreak havoc. My gargantuan cat Bentley snarled at them and they crumbled. Too bad, they would have brought out even more astounding attributes of our fearless hero, MM. We didn't get to meet Oreo Ollie, the sly and sexy leader of their tribe, a smart cookie if ever there was one. Might have been some firearms blazing, even crumb to crust contact, a violent showdown at high noon in the WWW corral . But alas, friends, just like Alice's Cheshire Cat, the Oreos have vanished. But... if those thundering milanos ever hit town again...they might come out of hiding. Speaking of hiding:
Welcome, Lurker Kathy (they also serve who only sit and lurk). Also, glad you're with us Laura (LAHWA). Guess what? I'm stalled on my character creation and a basic plot, if that makes you feel any better. Instead of getting on with my embryonic novel, I keep doing magazine queries (some of which succeed), going for short term gratification, i.e. getting published, rather than the long haul. A bright note: I'm happy to report that after four months of not being able to taste or smell (a strange virus attacked my sinuses in Jan.), I am at last able to do a little of both. Thanks to the wonderful support (herbal advice etc.) of many of you, and to an accupuncturist here in Santa Fe, I am recovering faster than the dire predictions (2 years minimum, only a 50% chance) of an ENT doctor I consulted about this weird malady. Had an article published (mother's day reunion) by Brigette Lang's Happy Times Monthly that I learned about here online. Also (very exciting) I learned that I will be able to have America Online at my office. I can get e-mail during the day...AND, I'll have access to the internet. That's it for now. Thanks all, for sharing your joy. It's contagious! Elaine
Subj: Lurker no more 95-05-05 23:34:31 EDT
From: LoneReadr
Posted on: America Online
Hi!
First of all congratulations to all of the successes of the past few weeks!! I've been lurking for quite some time and it's so wonderful to see all your hard work pay off.
I write poetry and keep a journal. I've keep my journal for sixteen years now, and couldn't survive without it. It calms me in some weird way.
Thank you for all the inspirational posts, WWW is my favorite location in aol. Thanks also for introduction to Milano cookies (and the Milano Man). I'll probably gain five pounds, but it's worth it.
Congrats again, and keep writing!
Charlette
Subj: Milano Man.....con't 95-05-06 09:42:36 EDT
From: Writer2544
Posted on: America Online
was none other than --------- the dusty manuscript Sir Pepperidge Farm had stashed away behind the wilted lettuce and half eaten apple. So! He had been here - but why! She dazed dreamily and then melted into the reflection of his eyes - pure Milanos! (amazing how deep a 17" NEC Monitor lense looks and when you're crossed eyed there's two - a great pair of eyes with a dark screen saver - oops where was I) "Don't you know who I am?" The words echoed until her head was swimming - then the muse suddenly went POOF! A sudden darkness enveloped her and the clock ticked on and on - TICK - TICK - TICK - TICK - then she (OH IT'S HE!) absent mindedly smoothed the crumpled bag. And then...it *struck* like a lightening bolt from the heavens - the gods and godesses came as a whirlwind from the skies - and her hands raced across the keyboard as she cried out "AH HAH! I know - I know - you're - you're - THE MILANO MAN!!!" And he stood there with a half cocked grin "Ah...Yup".
Subj: Re:Happy "cinco de mayo" ! 95-05-06 09:56:48 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
Just got on "the morning after "Cinco de Mayo"...but let me tell you in Phoenix it's a really big deal! Lots of celebrations about towns...in all the schools, etc. A great and happy time!
Subj: Re:Congrats - and more 95-05-06 12:53:19 EDT
From: LeeHarris
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations to everyone! Julie, it was great to hear of your success!
I was finally able to make a chat last Sunday and hope I can do it this weekend. It has been an absolutely outstanding week in general. I attribute it all to exercise. Yes, I finally succumbed to all the hoorah about regular physical exercise and found that although I am now fighting the urge to stop (the agony set in after 4 straight days), both my husband and I feel much, much better. I have been reading Covey's 7 Habits of Highly Effective People during my computer breaks at work and that also has been inspirational.
Thanks for the words of inspiration LJ. I truly appreciate them.
Tomorrow is my major writing day so I'll be up bright and early. I am going to be working on that point-of-view issue we dicussed, Julie and Erin. And yes, I even have my workout already scheduled. But, maybe it's also the fact that we hired someone to do the heavy cleaning in the house. Or that I finished renegotiating my contract. Or that school is almost out. Or MAYBE it's the fact that Juneau has had sunshine and high 60s, low 70s for 2 full weeks!!
Thanks for the inspiration, people. Positive writing to all of you. Lee
Subj: Re:Milano Man.....con't 95-05-06 15:24:57 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
The Milano Man lifted his sore butt from the scorching New Mexico dirt, brushed off his buckskin trousers, and rubbed the bump at the back of his head. In a daze, he eyed the crumbled Oreo cookies about El Coleman's beautiful landscape, then his eyes rested on the hot tub under the white gazebo.
"Wanna join us?" Bentley drawled, stretching his long claws into the air before he draped a paw over Camela's creamy white shoulder. "Kitty and I were gettin' to know each other better."
The Milano Man continued to stare at the love-sick felines. Camela, the terrorist cat, transformed before his eyes into sweet, demure little kitty. Her innocent blue eyes sparkled in the steamy mist, her furry white face blushed coyly. At last, the vicious catwoman had found true love with the studly, gargantuan Santa Fe cat.
"Hakuna Matata..." Bentley's sexy meow pierced her terrorist heart, "Don't worry...be happy...it's a small world after all...."
"Aw, shut up!" The Milano Man frowned. "What the hell am I doing in Santa Fe? Where's my Darlin' Kathie? Where's my czlaw sandwich? One dang minute I'm in New Haven with Sam-I-Am and the next minute I'm picking up crumbled Oreos off Senora Coleman's lawn."
"Hey, it's fiction. Anything can happen, Bud." Bentley scratched a flea off his cocked brow and flung it at the disheartened cowboy. "That no-good scoundrel, Oreo Ollie, shrinknapped your sweetheart/ half-sister and took up into the black hills. Sir Pepperidge and his band of archeo-neurotics are rustling up the million Milano ransom right now as we purr."
"Oh, Kathie, my Darlin' Kathie!" The Milano Man's cry echoed across the Coleman's patio. "I never had a chance to tell her that Lorna Doone wasn't her momma. It's all here in Sir Pepperidge's dusty manuscript...the legend of the Goddess of...."
Subj: more.... 95-05-06 16:11:29 EDT
From: SNewmark
Posted on: America Online
It began raining: chocolate chips and lemon drops.....
Milano Man sought shelter in the nearest available place. A pueblo.
"At last I've escaped the mad cats," he sighed. He stripped off his drenched clothing (raindrops mixed in w/the chips & candy)...
He was quite a sight....rippling muscles, wet chest hair, tangled mane, tired but handsome face...and crunchy chocolate filling.
He turned suddenly, to see a fireplace behind him, and lounging there, looking for all the world like Pocahontas on a fur rug, was........
Subj: Re: Milano Mania 95-05-06 16:50:17 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
Larquem - I'm over here in Tempe and we had this teeny, tiny little rain shower. Don't tell the gals on board that in a few weeks we will be sweltering! It is absolutely glorious here today! I have two American Eskimos (that AKC talks for "Spitz") and they bark every time the wind blows and every minute in between... my wind chime on the patio got quite a workout today. I agree with all - the conversation on this board is superlative...just like the weather in Arizona....and the Phoenix Suns!!!!!
Subj: Re:more.... 95-05-06 16:50:33 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
...Ginger Snaps, the Indian squaw with auburn hair and emerald green eyes, and her trusty sidekicks, 5 wiley coyotes.
"Snew," Milano Man muttered under his breath. "What mischief have you got me into now? I can deal with a cat goddess, but "Dances With Coyotes" here is Oreo Ollie's steady dessert. She's never tasted a milano in her life, but the Wiley 5 look awfully hungry."
"Run for it!" Sir Pepperidge shouted, clenching his bag of Milk Chocolate milanos. "Those coyotes are partial to Hazelnut...you know, it's a literary thing, intellectual art vs. mainstream."
Subj: Welcome Kathy! 95-05-06 17:46:36 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Welcome Kathy! If you're interested, join us for our weekly chats and critique sessions. E-mail me or EMFitz for details. Carolyn
Subj: Re:My query worked!....I think 95-05-06 17:51:13 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Julie, don't be shy - call or write the editor with a suggestion as to when you can have it in. One of the go-ahead's I just received suggested I slant the article in a "slightly" different direction ---- that seemed like a whole NEW direction to me. I called the editor and talked it over. Now I feel better. So, again, take the bull by the horns, call the editor with a smile in your voice and get that ASSIGNMENT!
Congratulations! Carolyn
Subj: Welcome Charlette! 95-05-06 17:55:15 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
I'm glad you decided to stop lurking and get in on the sharing. Carolyn
Subj: Re:more.... 95-05-06 18:09:20 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Milano man ran, hiding his bag of milano's in his holster. He jumped over a nearby fence and crouched behind a rock. Jeeze, he thought, I wish I had a tall glass of milk to wash these cookies down.
Just then, Milano Man felt something warm nudge his butt. With fear in his heart he slid his hand down to protect his Milanos and slowly glanced up.
"Maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa" said the nubian goat standing next to him. Milano Man smiled. He preferred cow's milk but Goat milk would have to do.
He was a lucky son of a gun after all.
After satiating his desires with the thick rich cream from the goat's teets, Milano Man decided it was time to cut out of this barnyard. Reaching into his backpack he pulled out a crisp, clean pair of Calvin Klein Jeans and an Oscar De La Renta silk shirt. He dropped his muddy cowboy duds next to the goat, shrugged the clean clothes over his strong, muscular
body and strode over to the waiting mercedes benz.
Flinging open the door of the mercedes, Milano Man
wondered where he would go next. He slid his body into the smooth leather seat, stuck the key in the ignition and turned the engine over. Suddenly, he knew what lay before him. He spun away from the barn, the bandits and his fond memories of the indian maiden, headed for the bright lights and smart women of Milano City...
Subj: Re:My query worked!....I think 95-05-06 18:47:16 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Sounds like a go ahead "on spec". This is fairly common. When you submit the piece, she'll decide whether or not you fit their "style" ... and if she likes it, you'll probably get more assignments - - under contract!
Congratulations!
Subj: Re: The Milano Cycle 95-05-06 22:00:11 EDT
From: PoetLinda
Posted on: America Online
The Milano Cycle
This prologue needs to be aired. A rather distraught woman, of indeterminate age , penned the following and posted it on the bulletin board of a local laundromat.
I got proof in my gunnysack. Tucked beneath fat free crackers, baked tortilla chips, low sodium fiber enriched melba triangles- the original Milano cookie recipe. Listen, before anyone even knew enough to blend the right ingredients and package them in cute wrappings, I created Milanos . My name, Margarita Inez Lucinda Annabel Nina Olive Serentino. Being poor, lacking an education and trusting everyone led me to make a fatal mistake. I asked a local scrivener to write down the recipe. He did. One afternoon..
"...I was napping,
suddenly there came a tapping,
a distant, persistent tapping,
tapping at my chamber door..."
Subj: Meanwhile back in the hills.... 95-05-07 00:46:36 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
"Heh,heh,heh," cackled Oreo Ollie to her faithful sidekick Doublestuff, 'so clever of us to hide in the black hills, eh, my pretty? They'll never find us here!" She stroked her five chinhairs and sat back on her haunches. "I'll show that doublecrossin' Milano-- thinks he can leave me for some archetypal Eastern broad; I'll show him."
"Hush," said Doublestuff, "listen!"
The shrinkette was singing in the bag they'd tied her in.
"There's a bright golden haze on the medder---
there's a bright golden haze on the medder.
The corn is as high as an archetype's eye
and my hero Milano will come by and by---"
"Totally bonkers," stated O.O., disdainfully. Milano had no taste at all anymore. He could have had his pick of Oreos or even their cousins, the Mallomars, but no, he has to run off with a shrink. Ollie shook her head.
Meantime, in New Mexico, EL's hot tub was quaking with excitement. Sir Pepperridge had arrived with his cargo of cookies and was hot on the trail of the shrinknappers. Elaine met him at the door and offered him some goat milk.
Sir Pepperridge recoiled. "But zat is against cz'law!"
he exclaimed. "Bring me some oedipal eggs!" For the rest of the night, he regaled his rapt hot tub audience with tales of his early work with Sigmund and their famous case of the Keebler elf who was cured of his terminal cuteness the moment he started to work for Nabisco.
In the hills, the Oreos were finally asleep. Deep in her bag, KC continued to sing old show tunes but under her breath she muttered alchemical formulas. "Eye of Newt and LauriGold/he is cute and I am old". She knew she was losing it but she didn't care. The love of her life was gone forever and here she was stuck in a bag.
Suddenly the smell of buckskin assailed her. The sound of a scizzors cutting the bag and then-- could it be?-- oh yes, shades of shortbread! it was him!
"Hey there, little darlin'" he whispered as he joined her in the bag.
"What's snew?" she murmured as she drank in his eyes, his lips, the smell of hazelnuts and buckskin. And then at last---------
Subj: More tidbits... 95-05-07 08:47:46 EDT
From: RSLatham
Posted on: America Online
The Bridges of Milano Cookie....the saga is wonderful!!! We should get that published! : )
Congratulations to all the recent succusses and all who have joined our magic! I sent out the article for the assignemnt I got last week. What a wonderful feeling!
Let's see... more tidbits I got at the conference...
Re:Fiction writing.
Willie Styron- "Fiction is a synthesis of various elements- a subtle mix of character, narrative energy, and form. If one element is missing, then you have a deficiency." He also said the character is what is most often missing in fiction. "We remember the great works of fiction for the characters that have been created."
Tip-
When publishing your first book, contact an author that you know, or one of your genre and ask them to review it. A positive review of a known author on your book can improve sales.
Publishers-
Did you all know that a University Press will keep your book in print on on their 'backlist' longer than a regular publisher??
Rachel : )
Subj: Re:This goofy board 95-05-07 20:19:18 EDT
From: Lajam1
Posted on: America Online
On el primo de Mayo I went all soft and schmaltzy about how you dears "write from your heart" and the next thing I read is the adventures of Milano Man! Pretty cute and fun to read. Would someone tell me when the "chat" on Sunday night is? I think I could hold my own with you goofy ladies, but can't find you.BTW, I think this is all a plot by Pepperidge Farm to sell more cookies. I've never even heard of Milanos, much less eaten any. Personally, I think Mr. Milano looks like Liam Neeson. I'll definitely be trying Milanos soon. Guess I'll go now and eat carrot sticks.LJ
Subj: The saga continues... (add on!) 95-05-07 22:46:53 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
The bag was heaving with heavy breathing.
"ah, darlin'" he whispered, "don't you really know who I am?"
She nuzzled his neck.
"My very own Milano man," she answered. "My hero."
"Think deeper, woman," he muttered. "Remember your research. And Pepperridge, that Freudian son of a slip, think about him!"
"Not now," she said, tasting his earlobe which was remarkably savory, like Orange Mint.
But he persisted.
She sighed and dutifully reviewed her research. What did she know about Pepperridge? He was always secretive about his past. Who his parents were. Whether he had really been knighted by Queen Anrol of Gif. Wait a minute! Where was Gif anyway? She asked Milano Man, feeling his hazelnut breath tickle her hair as he held her.
"Look backwards" he said, cryptically.
Backwards in time? Historically backwards? Psychologically backwards? The collective unconscious again? Deftly she enumerated the archetypes she had known. Nothing. Was Gif the Primal Ooze from which the gods created cookies? Was it the Quintessence? The Pearl Without Price? The Garden Enclosed?
"You fruitcake," he murmured to her hair (she loved it when he lapsed into shrinktalk), "Think backwards."
Suddenly she had an Aha experience! Ooops, wrong theory. Never mind, she thought; she had it. Gif was not a country at all, it was, it was--- Fig! And Anrol was Lorna! Sir Pepperridge was not who he claimed. He was the son of Lorna Doone! And it was he who forged her birth certificate and passed it on to Sam-I-am!
"But MIlano, my love", she whispered, "where is he now? What happened after the MM Curse affected him? I thought he was done in by now."
She felt the fringe on his buckskin shiver, then suddenly the bag was thrown back, and there stood Oreo Ollie, crumbling unattractively and snarling,
"Aha, my pretties, I've got you at last!"
In the distance, a mournful Doublestuff began to croon,
"Sing me a song of Milano Man..." The Wiley 5 sang backup and a gaggle of goats began to maaaaa softly in syncopated rhythm.
KC looked helplessly at Oreo. But Milano had more than one trick up his sleeve. He smiled at his little darlin'-- she still didn't realize who he truly was. But at least she had Pepperridge pegged.
Glaring at Oreo, he sprang to his feet, clutched his baby doll to draw strength from his *feminine* side, and...........
Subj: And a serious note 95-05-07 22:49:14 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Thanks, Rachel, for all the info you're passing on. And congrats to everyone's successes. Are we magical or what? Unfortunately I have to stop writing and spend the next three weeks moving-- just when my book was slouching toward completion. If only life would stop long enough..............
Kathie
Subj: Re:And a serious note 95-05-07 23:58:18 EDT
From: Lauri Gold
Posted on: America Online
----his fingers tore through Kathie's sun-streaked hair, scattering pins and sending her thick tresses cascading down her back. He'd never wanted a woman so badly in his life. Was it love or the intoxicating aroma of hazelnut within the tight enclosure? His spurs ripped the burlap sack to shreds as he rolled about the black hills with the seductive shrinkette.
"Wait!" Kathie resisted the cowboy's impatient desires, bolting upright on the hillside. "Listen...it's Sir Pepperidge Farm."
"Oh my darlin', oh my darlin',
oh my darlin' shrinkette
I've been searching through the black hills
just to make you my sweet pet"
Kathie chewed her lower lip. She thought about all that money, the luxurious penthouse in Manhattan, and Sir Pepperidge's contacts with the Keebler elves. The shrinkette hadn't quite recovered from her Snow White syndrome. She envisioned herself surrounded by millions of tiny cookie bakers, all paying homage to her virtue.
"Heh, heh, heh," Oreo Ollie cackled from her dark sanctuary above. "What's it going to be, my pretty? The Freudian cookie baron or the Milano's manhood? Fantasy or true romance?"
"Surrender the fantasy," the Milano Man panted huskily, and branded himself on the woman's heart forevermore.
Subj: Re:to be continued... 95-05-08 11:05:43 EDT
From: SNewmark
Posted on: America Online
Just as she was about to abandon herself forever in MIlano's arms, he was suddenly distracted...
and turned to see glorious Linzer Tarte, tempting him as no other female could, with her luscious raspberry jelly filling and powdered sugar sprinkled ever so sexily on top.
He dropped Kathie not very delicately, and turned to the temptation..."Milano," Linzer drawled..."you & I go back a long ways...."
Subj: Milano Man- the movie 95-05-08 12:17:21 EDT
From: Jcmaher
Posted on: America Online
I agree with Lajam1. Liam Neeson is definitely my first choice for the lead.
Subj: Changing focus? 95-05-08 17:28:07 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Have any of you found your "focus" changing? Have you written for certain publications or genres and decided that it was time to re-evaluate? I'd be interested to know how you've all dealt with this.
Leese
the pondering today
Subj: Lest we forget.... 95-05-08 18:08:35 EDT
From: Writer2544
Posted on: America Online
I thought this poem I wrote as a child summed up my feelings - this
50th year remembrance of V-Day. It could use some serious editing but I thought I'd leave it as it was - from a child's point of view.
Freedom
The cling and clang of metals
the group moves swiftly on
Beside the flag of Freedom
the sun is upward shone
And through the gray arms reeling
the horse brigade at dawn,
Men shout through pain unyielding
Enemy troops are finally gone.
We often speak of freedom now
in a manner laissez-faire,
As if to say we will not ever
suffer with such despair.
Victory was won with hope and strength
through pain and misery
Let's pray to God that all men have
recall; of that memory.
Subj: Re:Changing focus? 95-05-08 20:36:31 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Changing Focus? Me? HA! Every minute practically.
One day I swear my allegiance to trade journals, the next to parenting magazines, the next to animals,
the next to woman's magazines, the next to fiction,
the next to poetry, the next to essays.....you get the picture.
I decided that to really make a living of any sort with non-fiction, I need to focus on just two or three categories. So, I made a list of the subjects I feel comfortable with and that I have a decent shot (i.e. credentials or experience) at marketing. Once I started to focus, I started to sell.
It can't hurt to try new markets, I guess. But my own experience has been that if you don't focus you get
scattered. Carolyn
Subj: Re:KC O'Hara 95-05-09 09:15:30 EDT
From: LisaMuse
Posted on: America Online
Kathie awoke to the sound of a steady, gentle rain. She gazed at her surroundings, confused. As she began to sit up, a sharp pain stabbed her lower back. She fell back on the beds. Beds? Yes, she was sleeping across 7 little beds that had been pushed together. She tried sitting up again, grimacing at the nagging soreness, and studied the room.
There were 7 little chest-of-drawers fashioned out of elm branches. Colorful pictures of elves and cookes, crudely framed, adorned the wooden walls. Suddenly, the sound of singing mingled with the rain:
"Heigh-Ho, Heigh-Ho
It's off to work we go!
Our cookes are to die for,
Heigh-Ho, Heigh-Ho!"
She was in the Keebler tree! She tried to think backwards, as her darling Milano Man had taught her. How did she get here? Where was Sir Pepperidge? Did she lose Milano Man to that saucy Tarte?
Kathie closed her eyes, trying to think backwards, but the elves' singing grew louder.
"Milano Man......" She began to cry.......
Subj: Re:KC O'Hara 95-05-09 09:34:53 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
but her crying subsided as she realized the song they were singing was one her mother used to sing to her as a child..."The Muffin Man...the muffin man...do you know the muffin man?..." Desperately she tried to gather her wits about her....but the nagging pain gain pierced her back. Then she discovered it...there was a lump in the mattress...could it be?...she groped beneath the covers and there it was...the proverbial "Pea" that had at one time done in a fabled princess...she heaved a sigh of relief!...now she could
Subj: Re:Changing focus? 95-05-09 13:19:12 EDT
From: Jcmaher
Posted on: America Online
My focus has changed, and it took me quite by surprise at first. I wrote mostly plays for many many years. Then four years ago I started writing about a set of characters and it kept being stories instead of plays. After about a year of that, I realized I was writing a novel. What a shock! Once I recognized what I was doing, it took another two years to do it to my satisfaction. I gained a profound respect for those who've written not one, but several, wonderful novels.
When I write a play, I really only have to account for somewhere between one and three hours in the lives of a set of characters. With the novel, I felt I had to know their entire lives, their town's history, what they ate for breakfast, - in short, all the things that in a stage play would fall more to the actors and director to figure out, as well as all the things the playwright needs to address.
I think, though, that having made the shift, I'll be sticking to fiction for a while.
Subj: Re:KC O'Hara 95-05-09 13:22:30 EDT
From: Jcmaher
Posted on: America Online
identify the other verse that was gently tugging at her brain cells: Simple Simon met a pieman going to the fair....
Could it be that Simple Simon and the Milano Man were somehow connected?
Subj: Re:Changing focus? 95-05-09 16:14:28 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
At least I am not alone then, Carolyn! I have been writing for everything from religious and homeschool publications to general interest, parenting, trade and food magazines. I have done writing for writing magazines AND business writing "on the side". Lately I am feeling scattered and scatter-brained ;-).
Thanks for the insights!
Peace,
Leese
Subj: Of elves and men....... 95-05-09 18:07:04 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Things were getting out of hand. Where was Dr. Joyce when you need her? Kathie wondered. Here she was locked in a hovel with 7 tiny guys in aprons. How did she get into this anyway? She tried to think backwards but the appearance of Linzer Tarte had ravaged her memory. One line kept going through her head,
"gotta make the donuts. gotta make the donuts".Was there no end to all this?
One moment she was a simple shrinkette scholar researching an ancient Greek god, the next she was surrounded by various forms of cookie monsters. She had to swear off, yes even give up Milano. But then she remembered-- his hazelnut breath, the tendrils of hair curling on his neck as he showed her the box from Sir Pepperridge, the smell of his buckskin. Even her scholarly mind could not turn away; she had to know who he was. And get revenge on that Tarte who had knocked her out and somehow left her with these elves. I'll get her, she swore; I'll win you back, Milano, if it's the last thing I do.
She made her plans while the elves, those obsessive-compulsives, were counting chocolate chips, and when the time was right, she quietly slipped out the door only to meet. Oh no, not another one!
"what are you doing here, Pie-man?" she asked.
"I am not Pie-man," he claimed, lying through this teeth. "I am the ghost of Cooky past."
"Yeah, right," she said, "and I'm a Hell's angel"-- hmm, hell's angel; she had never thought about the curious juxtaposition. Hell and angel. The high and the low, the spiritual sky and the chthonic below, the.............
"Hey!" said Pie-man sharply. "Aren't you going to ask about the message I've brought for you?"
"LIke you could think up a message," she muttered.
Pie-man was wounded to the quick.
"I may be simple but I'm not dumb," he retorted.
She sighed. At least he didn't wear an apron.
"Ok, ok, what's your message, Pie?"
He straightened his chef's hat, mistakenly believing this increased his sex appeal.
"Linzer's a loser. She's in cahoots with Lorna Doone. And Ollie. They're all in this together."
"Who are they working for? " K asked.
"Can't you guess?" said Pie. "The Muffin Man. You who he is, don't you?"
"Look, Pie," she replied, "I've had enough of guessing games. All I really care about is getting back to my research and winning the heart of Milano Man. Can you help with that or not?"
But before he could answer, a chorus of "heigh ho"s began again.
"Quick", said Kathie, "we've got to get out of here. If they find me, I'm toast. Uh... shortbread."
In a twinkling, Pie-man swooped her up in his breadbox and whisked her away. In the bushes, a lone figure looked on this scene sad and sighed. And by his side, shamelessly shaking her raspberry filling, was Linzer. Her eyes narrowed as she watched the shrink and the pie-man disappear over the hill; she cackled softly and rattled the handcuffs she had used to bind the Milano man and said..........
Subj: this board 95-05-09 18:27:11 EDT
From: DCHAM
Posted on: America Online
what a delight this board is! i've been so wrapped up in a deadline that i've only been able to pop in a few times, but it's lovely to see the successes and the struggles and the support everyone is sharing here.
-i wanted to respond to Pisces' question from several weeks ago on agoraphobia. I too was agoraphobic, from childhood through my early twenties. i had to quit college, couldn't hold a job, etc. finally got well through learning behavioral techniques, went back to school, and eventually became a clinical social worker with a private therapy practice. then i started writing, and after a l-o-n-g time, quit my first career to focus on my second. I'm now 45, the author of 6 novels, and a long way from agoraphobia, but it has left its mark on me in many ways. My third novel, SECRET LIVES, is about an agoraphobic woman, and other such women seem to creep into my work without my even realizing it. I hope you will continue working on your book, Pisces. . .(hmm. . . i wonder how many agoraphobics are pisces? me too) agoraphobia is still misunderstood and maligned. best of luck...
--leese--congratulations on your forthcoming book! sounds wonderful. do you have a publisher?
--someone asked about RWA. I am a member although I don't write romance. These (for the most part) women have their acts together and know the business end of writing, and for that reason i've found a lot of support there. however, for those who have publsihed 2 books of fiction, Novelists' Inc. is even better and more representative of other genres.
-hope to hang around here more often now that my book's been turned in.
diane
Subj: Re:Changing focus? 95-05-09 18:28:33 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Dear Leese et al,
I raised two very different children, one of whom was very singular in his focus, one who was, even as a little girl, always multi-focussed. Both were quite creative and watching them taught me a lot. I think different people have different 'styles' and what works for some wreaks havoc for others. Someone years ago gave me a paper out of some educational journal that helped me think about this further; it spoke of convergent vs. divergent thinking. Convergent thinkers gather everything in to focus on one thing at a time while divergent thinkers appear to be all over the place but are actually multiply- focussed, working on and thinking about several different projects at once. There's no 'superior' or 'inferior' about this; they're simply different styles of working, of being. I tend to be multiply-focussed and as I look back throughout my life, always was-- yet I find it extremely helpful with writing to be able to focus long periods on the same work, at least when the work is lengthy as in writing a book. Yet often I have to leave that work when it WON'T anymore and divert to something else. I also find that while diversion sometimes becomes procrastination, often *something* in me is still unconsciously working on the first piece and often when I am focussing on something else, the ideas on what I am not focussing on suddenly come together. And I love trying to work in different genres simultaneously; my life is like that, moving between public lectures, therapy, and different kinds of writing, all of which use different parts of me.I want to do it more with writing and am still trying to get to that, though rather slow in getting it going around writing. It can feel scattered and get chaotic but I see my life as a kind of crazyquilt where all the patches are everywhichway and at different angles and one has to invent wild and diverse ways of stitching the patches together-- but when you look at the whole, it all works.
Regardless of whether one's style is more naturally convergent or divergent, it seems to me that for most of us women, our lives as "jugglers" demand a multi-focussed approach and the constant scrambling to make the bridges that knit it all together. I see this as an incredible strength in woman, a gift and a skill (that nobody gives us credit for since it's still the patriarchal linear perspective of starting at the beginning, climbing up the ladder step by step, reaching the top {puff, puff} that's used as the standard of what constitutes 'achievement'); that's part of why I admire so many of you who manage to juggle not only different jobs and different kinds of writing but writing with husbands and children as well. (That I found nearly impossible.) It may take us
jugglers longer to 'get' there than those who can be or are naturally more 'singular' or we may have to do our lives at times as a *series* of different foci during different periods of our lives, but we make an incredible tapestry of living along the way, one that includes many layers and many dimensions of reality and weaves together the realms too often separated in too many men's lives: work and love.
Whew; that was longwinded (I am not apologizing, just *divergent*!!).
Kathie (aka Shrinkette, KC, and *significant other* of Milano Man?)
Subj: Re: quote 95-05-09 18:48:52 EDT
From: DARK PRINT
Posted on: America Online
Thought I'd share this with all of you:
For peace of mind, resign as general manager of the universe.
That came up in a weight watcher discussion of how women try to take on the world, and how all the stress resulting from that wreaks havoc on our lives. It certainly hit home for me.
Kelly
Subj: Re:KC O'Hara 95-05-09 20:09:24 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
Thoughts ran wildly though her brain...she began to hyperventilate. And then she wailed..."I can name that tune in five notes!.."...and with that a tiny little Keebler elf ran to her side. "Dorothy...Dorothy...you're okay...thank God you're okay." "Who, who are you?"...her voice trailed weakly. Why I'm a cute little animated Keebler Elf that saves the cookie firm I work for from having to hire real live people do do commercials. Where am I?...I can't remember anything...but the song..and-a one and-two..altogether now...
Subj: Milano man the saga...add on! 95-05-09 21:15:05 EDT
From: Writer2544
Posted on: America Online
"who's that!" as she glanced away and over to the bushes. Several elves were hunched over a women laying there. Then all of a sudden they began to sing..." We wonder, wonder about the Milano man, disappeared at dawn - and we thought he ran, it just turned out we heard Kathie say - that someone took them both away... away ... away ..We wonder, wonder about the Milano man....."
Linzer Tarte squeezed her filling in disgust and said with distain "those rotten little Keeblers - I'll get them.. I will..!!!" "You 'll do nothin of the kind darlin", and quick as a wink the handcuffs slid off his wrists and over her puffy little hands. Click!! "Oh you - you burnt cookie!" she cried as she shook her sugar sprinkles all over him. "Whoa your filling is showing - you're just as bad as Lorna Doone, and that crumbly crumb - Oreo Ollie!" he exclaimed. Linzer was about to shout back when his hazelnut breath soothed her from tart to sweet. And then he shouted "What's goin on over there". "Heigh Oh - Heigh Oh" the elves shouted back. "It's the Milano man!"
Subj: Re:scattered vs multifacited 95-05-09 22:54:41 EDT
From: SCUBBAHEY
Posted on: America Online
Thanks Doso, for a reason behind my madness!
I seem to work best when working on at least two (divergent, utterly dissimilar) projects at once. I never knew there was a name for my condition!
It's the only way I know -- there's so much to learn about in the world, so many words to write, so many cookies to taste... am I philanderer? Nay, surely not! Merely -- a WRITER!! yee haw....
:::::hoofbeats gallop away into the sunset:::::
On a serious note: Have any of you tried research via online services such as GOPHER? I did today -- wow! It's like having the entire NYC library move into your living room...... overwheleming, but -- informative!
Subj: Re: quote 95-05-09 23:04:52 EDT
From: Wiley 5
Posted on: America Online
Thank you, Kelly!
Whew! What a relief! Thanks for giving me permission to let go. How come I need to have the obvious pointed out to me? Too busy controlling?
I do feel that I've done my bit and the rest is up to others to hold it all together. But can I really trust them???? Ok, I'll resign, but don't blame me for the result! : )
I've printed your note & will keep it in sight until it's as much a part of me as breathing.
Many thanks!
Peggy
Subj: Re: quote 95-05-10 00:50:01 EDT
From: KyPn
Posted on: America Online
I have needlepointed:
Serene women do things serenely.
It speaks to me.
Subj: Sunshine out there 95-05-10 08:05:20 EDT
From: GerrCO
Posted on: America Online
Can anything swallow us up if we're not in front of its mouth?
I'm about to start a job (THIS VERY MORNING) working on site for a few months (I've had my own business for a decade, so this is the kind of work I tended to avoid. Relocating means you do different things in order to provide basic necessities, if needed.)
How do I keep up the momentum on my novel?
Here's the plan. I will continue working on my novel (my Real Job) first thing in the morning, even if I can only get in a half hour or an hour. This will keep the flow. I am in the habit, the habit is worth keeping.
There! I've said it to you, and you couldn't hear the almost whining "but what if" that almost followed. It feels more solid somehow.
Now for the recent victories--in the last two days I wrote 31 pages of my novel. In the last three weeks, I found an agent who is willing to read my mystery (step one). I submitted two entries to a fiction writing contest.
I'll be stopping in regularly as I step into this new routine, to sit in the sunshine with you and laugh and drink your wisdom.
Gerri
Subj: Changing focus 95-05-10 08:35:02 EDT
From: Charstar1
Posted on: America Online
I have never changed my focus; it has always been scattered!
Book 3 is just releasing - all published in Christian arena, although the last book is completely main stream: Mama Said There'd Be Days Like This (but she never said just how many) Of course I always live my book titles, and this one's no difference.
I have also interviewed baseball players in the White Sox locker room for a Chicago Tribune story. I have walked in the woods at night listening for hoot owls for the Trib. I have been the recipient of a body wrap for a first person account in another newspaper. I have written about a drowned man for the Sun Times. I have done lots of profiles AND written a script for an industrial film about hearing conservation. I have tackled the subject of humility in book 2 titled How To Eat Humble Pie and Not Get Indigestion; I am referred to as Char the Star!
Any questions?
This IS my life and I love it.
P.S. If you took "Any questions?" seriously, e-mail me direct, because although I'm considered to be a leader, I cannot follow my own way back to bulletin boards!
Subj: Wed chats: remember? 95-05-10 10:30:26 EDT
From: SNewmark
Posted on: America Online
Since I can only appear on Wed. nites now (due to my night job), I'd love to see lots of you show up:
So, a reminder:
Wed nits at 10 or later, come to private room, Jugglers, for informal chats about Writing and Life.....milanos and melancholy, etc.
Sandi
Subj: Re:Changing focus 95-05-10 10:36:16 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
Thanks SGrief for bringing it up. I'm usually very focused. To the extent I can't keep my mind on 'other stuff', you know, like cooking, eating, grocery shopping. Sometimes even in conversation, I find myself drifting away to the keyboard and what I would be writing if I could just get there. Now, I find I can't work on my novel even though I like the story. (Heroine finds she has psychometric power. Becomes enchanted by image of ancient Shaman she sees when touching the cave painting he made. Hero becomes a tad disconcerted when she keeps wandering off to spend time with a medicine man who lived a hundred years ago.)
Yesterday I wrote a short non-fiction article, The Never Empty Toothpast Tube! It turned out to be an inspirational piece (love is endless, too.) so I blindly sent it off to Guideposts. I know it will get windburn from being returned so quickly. I wrote an article on grafittie, When is grafitti art? and another on Welfare Reform! Where is all this stuff coming from? Another piece on Honor, is hammering at me to write. I've NEVER aspired to write inspirational stuff! Entertaining trash is all I ever wanted to put on the page. Is this the result of The Artist's Way? I can only stand back and watch.
Thank you, DCHam for the input about RWA. When no one responded to my question I thought I had made an unforgivable faux pas. Mentioning the Sacred Intitals without due reverance. :) "Curiouser and curiouser," Fransel thought, striking off down a path marked up. "Reminds me of Wonderland," she muttered, "and we all know what happened to Alice." She sighed thoughtfully. "Here's to the continued Saga of the Milano Man."
Subj: Re:Changing focus 95-05-10 11:35:31 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
::::applauding Fransel's inspirations of late:::::::
Actually, I may be seeing a little peek at focus returning. I won't hold my breath ;-).
So, Fransel, you get windburn from rejections. I have a dented mailbox (they come flying back so fast, after all). Some writer friends and I have come to the conclusion that there's a postal person in the O'Hare airport, assigned specifically to all manuscripts and queries that are on their way to the East coast. That person cancels them in Chicago and sends them back. Which explains the speedy responses in the negative!
Charstar1 ... so THAT's why my book proposals fell flat. You were writing it! I have a humorous devotional book manuscript, my very first effort at writing - it's title? Momma Told Me There'd Be Days Like These. How funny. It's also Christian nonfiction. Collected 30 rejection slips for it. I always wondered why, since at least half of the rejections were complimentary of my writing. Now I know. God had assigned the project to you instead. Congrats! {{{{cyberhugs}}}}
To everyone here ... this place has become my virtual cup 'o java. You kick start my day, inspire me and encourage me. Thanks!
Peace,
Leese
Subj: All Mail Goes to........... 95-05-10 13:47:09 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Iron Mountain, Michigan. No matter where it's sent from. That's why it takes so LONG. :) Perhaps then it goes to the Postmaster in Charge of Writer Rejections (a burgeoning office if ever there was one) (next to the room with no windows in which a group of stuffy old men whose skin is pallid from no light decided What is ART) in Chicago.
Hugs to all.
Kathie (aka Shrinkette abandoning writing to search for a new apartment-- expletive deleted)
Subj: This and That 95-05-10 16:47:46 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
I've been using on-line research for several months now --- I have access to the world wide web, compuserve and, of course, AOL --- I have gleamed story ideas, met interesting people (including everyone here!), conducted cyber-interviews, and done all sorts of research. It is a wonderful tool for
writers.
On a different note: OK, explain this to me: I'm doing really well with my writing, whipping out query letters, selling articles, writing articles, writing poems, etc.
So why, all of a sudden, have I gotten tremendously
DEPRESSED this week? It's like someone sucked the
wind out from under my high-flying wings. I know it doesn't make any sense --- I should be really happy
so why am I moping around feeling like a little lost
girl? Does this ever happen to any of you all? What
do you do about it when it does?
Thank goodness I can come here and "confess" these
deep dark thoughts as well as "celebrate" the good things in life! Carolyn
P.S. In rereading this before posting I thought, MY GOSH, sounds like a stereotypical manic-depressive
to me!
Subj: Re:This and That 95-05-10 17:06:10 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Carolyn~
Sounds to me like you haven't carved out enought time for just "you" in the flurry of activity. I have suffered this many, many times. Now I attend a writers' group meeting every Monday nite, and then go to the library for (presumably) research on Tuesday nite. Occasionally, when the funk lingers, and talking to other writers or editor friends doesn't help ... I go for a long, peaceful drive. Have you tried that?
Peace for today,
Leese
Subj: Re:This and That 95-05-10 20:57:42 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
"No Matter How Hard a Fish Swims...He Never Sweats.."
But I shall sweating because I have begun my "unauthorized" and hopefully when it is done I can see to it that it becomes "authorized." That means it has to be good...really good. One problem...just a teensie weensie problem...I'm sitting here with tons of papers, photos,..you name it..I've accumulated it all in three years. WHERE THE HELL DO I START?... "It was a dark and windy night...the air was so thick you could cut it with a knife??.....I don't think so. Oh Dear! Work with me people!
LelaJune
Subj: Re:This and That 95-05-10 21:00:38 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
Whoops...I forgot the key word here...BIOGRAPHY. Sorry 'bout that...it's been a long day. Anyone here done a biography...authorized or otherwise?
Subj: Re:Carolyn's blue funk 95-05-11 00:56:30 EDT
From: Lajam1
Posted on: America Online
Sounds to me, Carolyn, that there might be a little voice inside your head that is saying,"you don't deserve to be happy, to have all this success." When you start feeling bummed, write or say aloud affirmations. It works. It is straight out of The Artist's Way, and I swear it works. "I'm good enough, I'm smart enuf, and gosh darn it, people like me." Maybe Stewart Smalley is on to something. LJ
Subj: Re:Carolyn's blue funk 95-05-11 09:28:25 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
CZLAW on depression. If it's a blue funk that doesn't go away even after pampering yourself with one of your favorite things, (Milanos, chocolate, making love) and taking an afternoon off to indulge in it, then try this: On a sheet of paper number lines from 1 to 20. On line 1. write, I'm depressed because,______then quickly write whatever comes to mind. On the following 18 lines continue to put down reasons. They don't have to make sense and you don't have to show them to anyone, ever. Now when you come to line 20, write: The REAL reason I'm depressed is: If you don't think about them too much, just write, by the time you get to line 20 you've weeded through the superficial stuff and got down to the core problem. Most of the time this works for me.
SGRIEF Wow, dented mail box from flying rejections, huh? With all my ms suffering windburn, do you think we should try to get insurance? :) Hey! Now there's an idea. We could offer insurance to writers for demolished egos, rejection induced depression, bankruptcy due to horrendous postage costs. The premiums wouldn't have to be much, cause there's so many of us. Course, the awards couldn't be significant either, cause there's so many of us......Well, maybe not a good idea. Unless we paid in sympathy. Nah, probably not.
LelaJune Bio: Maybe you could start with something about the person everyone knows about, ie: Everyone knows O.J. Simpson is in jail. But NOT everyone knows what led to his fall from grace. Start in the middle, go back as far as you either have information, or care to, then tie it all to the present--or the future hopes, dreams, aspirations, etc.
TO ALL: Suggestions please: A small newspaper has offered me a column. Pay: Small, small. Are there any suggestions any of you can offer? Such as don't ever start out doing....? Or what ever you do be sure to......? They said I could name it, and I don't want anything that will limit what I write about. I'm thinking I might call it Point Of View. That way I can cover almost anything the paper will print. What da ya think?
Fransel
Subj: Re: Point of View 95-05-11 11:09:59 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Fransel, sign me up for insurance!! :) And about your column, I think your idea to call it Point of View is brilliant because then you CAN write about whatever you want to and leave the horizon wide open. And save your clips (but you probably already know to do that) for future contacts that will pay MORE money!
Good luck and let us know (and maybe see some of your favorite columns?) how it goes.
Kathie (whose crazy cat is this minute flirting with a squirrel in the window three floors up-- squirrel appeared yesterday and they spent 20 minutes looking at each other through the screen, each equally curious. Ah Spring....)
Subj: Letter of resignation 95-05-11 11:42:24 EDT
From: Bellesprit
Posted on: America Online
What? You mean all along I've been *sharing* the task of general manager of the universe? Whew! What a relief. If I take a break, there are enough people helping so the thing won't fall apart. Thanks for that quote, Kelley. Actually, I hope you'll all join me in letting go and dancing away from that responsibility. I think we'll find that it does perfectly well (or at least about the same) without our efforts to fix it. For myself, I see that the more I can let go in this way, the more my creativity flows. . .and the more clearly I see ways that I truly can be useful.
:-)
Belle
Subj: Hello again 95-05-11 13:02:38 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Thanks for the helpful comments. I think Leese hit the nail on the head --- i have been running around like crazy, even dreaming about articles I'm writing.
I'm also finding it hard to draw the line at the end of the day now that my office is at home --- I find I eat dinner then go back up to the office and noodle around some more with whatever I'm working on --- and that's after I've worked all day.
I think I need to just slow down several notches.
I also think I need to stop being afraid of being
"found out" as an imposter in this writing business.
Fransel, do the column no matter what it pays. I did a gardening column for my local newspaper for a while and while it probably paid about 2 cents an hour for the time I put into it, it's paid off in terms of having good clips and being able to say in queries that I've done a newspaper column. That's great!
Congratulations.
Well, my boss, four year old Gregory, is moaning that he hasn't been properly attended to this morning so...
See you all later! Carolyn
Subj: Re:Hello again 95-05-11 16:39:48 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Hug that boss for me, Carolyn ;-).
Congratulations, Fransel. Having a column is a real coup, you know ... no matter what the pay. It keeps you writing, hones your skills and has a little prestige with it as a perk! Think about it. Erma Bombeck started as a columnist for a tiny, local paper!
I just LOVE this place!
Leese
::::passing out cyber-Milanos ()()()::::
Subj: Re:Hello again, again 95-05-11 16:49:52 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
I took Fransel's advice and dug out my copy of the Artist's Way. Strangely, When I opened the book it flipped right to Chapter 10: which is about self-blocks we throw up in our creative way.
Quoting now: "We begin to sense our real potential and the wide range of possibilities open to us. That scares us. So we all reach for blocks to slow our growth...For most of us, happy is terrifying, unfamiliar, out of control, too risky. ..."
When I saw this passage again, which I'd underlined the first time I read it, I realized that, for me,
"being blue" is a way of blocking my progress ---
I feel down so I can't write, etc.
I'm choosing to take this as a "message from my creative self" and just keep on plugging through the
blues...
THANK YOU FRANSEL FOR REMINDING ME ABOUT THE WISDOM I FOUND IN THE ARTIST'S WAY. Maybe it's time for a "refresher course"
Carolyn
P.S. I won't be able to make the critique session tonight --- I have to go to my daughter's school open house. See everyone next week, and, as usual, thanks for listening (or, reading as the case may be...)
Subj: Summertime Writing Schedules 95-05-11 17:10:40 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Okay ... BIG question ~ how do you all plan to carve out enough time to write with the kids at home, vacations, etc. this summer?
Leese
the bewildered
Subj: Re:Summertime Writing Schedules 95-05-11 17:12:16 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
... and ... em ... writing outside with a laptop is no good for this pasty white redhead!
Subj: Re:Summertime Writing SchedulesI 95-05-11 20:52:13 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
I just LOVE THIS PLACE, too! Sgrief, try it in the morning before you get out of bed. (Writing, I mean:) That's when I'm doing my morning pages. Three pages, a couple of cups of coffee--it's turned into a real treat. That is of course if you don't have to be at work at dawn. If you only do three pages each a.m. it mounts up fast. I'm going to have to get another notebook already!
Subj: Success & Driven to Distraction 95-05-11 21:17:54 EDT
From: Writer2544
Posted on: America Online
SUCCESS:
Congratulations to everyone in their success - it's wonderful to read about - YES! it actually *DOES* happen...and this seems so much closer to *home*... even though it is in cyperspace ;-) Every new success gets me motivated to stretch a bit farther.. it's terrific. Thank you for your posts!
DISTRACTIBILITY:
Thank you Kathie for your explaination of thinking types. It is very interesting. There's is something more to distractibilty I wonder if you'd comment on (when you have a moment after you are settled). I read a book "Driven to Distraction" by Edward M. Hallowell, M.D. and John J. Ratey, M.D. about Attention Deficit Disorder. I am interested in this subject because I always getting sidetracked - daydream at the most inappropriate times - and am always going in so many directions - yet I like it that way. I never considered ADD as a possible "cause" for my way doing things because there are times I can be hyperfocused - and have an incredible ability to concentrate. I thought Attention Deficit meant just that. Actually it is a misnomer. Another reason why I discounted the possibility of ADD is because it seems to be the latest fad. I may simply be a divergent person but I can't help but wonder why I have lots of ideas yet have a hard time structuring things to actually make them happen. I never noticed this before when I had a structured work schedule and stiff deadlines but now that I work at home, on my schedule, the problem is more apparent. It's something I'm going to look into - there is an ADD professional group in my state. There is help to overcome ADD - so I thought I'd mention it here since it can be the cause of extreme distractibility. The book has a list of support groups for every state and sources for further information on obtaining a diagnosis.
The book uses case studies to help the reader understand ADD and the following is Sarah and her list of symptoms:
1] Daydreamed a lot in class as a child
2] was called "lazy" and "no more sense than a jaybird" by her father
3] Got 730 on the verbal college boards but couldn't get her papers in on time and got C's in English
4] Likes novelty, lots of changing interests
5] Have lots of ideas but have a hard time structuring things so they actually happen
6] Desk cluttered
7] Forgetful
8] Often have a hard time finfding the right word so impulsively say any word or just stay silent and fell stupid
9] Work best in a framework: things need to fit into the whole picture. Feel like she's always looking for structure
10] Difficult to walk a straight line tend to veer into things or people
11] Have always felt that she thinks differently from most people
12] Unless she's involved, usually gets sleepy during lectures
13] Handwriting: sometimes she writes things she doesn't mean to, skips letters or form sthem wrong
14] Often feels like she has to push thru a wall to get things done
15] No matter how organized she tries to be, she always messes up
16] Stream of consciousness way of doing housework - hop from this to that with no apparent logic, just a schedule
17] Always try to organize things, but it doesn't come easily. If they are not organized she doesn't know where they are
18] Lose what's in her head easily
19] Organizes her life around projects that give her something to think about
20] Feel she has to push herself all the time, especially getting into things
21] like things simple - early music, not romantic
Weed the garden, remove the clutter, she likes to do this
22] She has a problem with lateness even when ther is plenty of time - she fills it up and then cuts things too close or loses track of time. She doesn't have a sense of apssing time.
23] Inwardly feel desperate. Reassurances from other people don't help. There is something inside that needs to change
24] Easily hurt and rejected
25] Doesn't clean up after herself well, gets overwhelmed by a large confused mess
26] General problems with distractibility and disorganization
Subj: Driven to distraction - con't 95-05-11 21:19:38 EDT
From: Writer2544
Posted on: America Online
27] Most at peace when doing something with her hands like gardening or pottery.
And here is a list of tips Dr. Hallowell made for Sarah:
1] Consider joining or starting a support group
2] Try to get rid of the negativity that has infested her system
3] Make copious use of external structure; lists, reminders, files, daily rituals, and the like
4] When it comes to paperwork, ue the principle of OHIO, Only Handle It Once
5] Make deadlines
6] Do what you are good at, instead of spending all your time trying to get good at what you're bad at
7] Understand mood changes and ways to manage these
8] Expect depression after success
9] Learn how to advocate for yourself. Adults with ADD are so used to being criticized they are often unnecessarily defensive in putting their own case forward
10] Learn to joke with yourself and others about your various symptoms. If you can learn to be relaxed enough about the whole syndrome to be able to joke about it, others will forgive you much more easily.
The book's ISBN is: 0-679-42177-7
Hope this is of interest to someone out there.... Pam :-)
Subj: Re:Summertime Writing SchedulesI 95-05-12 11:46:18 EDT
From: SCUBBAHEY
Posted on: America Online
If your kids are old enough, try sleep-over camp.... I was amazed at how much I was able to do in a kid-free week. If not, I've found that my stepdaughter really WILL respect my need to write for a couple of hours every day, and amuses herself quite nicely (and safetly!) with art projects or a book. Or there's always that midnight oil.... : ) Stace.
Subj: Re:Summertime Writing SchedulesI 95-05-12 13:39:03 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Already burning midnight oil here ;-). Actaully, my problem is a bit more complex. I am finishing the book (mentioned earlier), plus a few magazine articles, plus a national newsletter ... then we're moving to another state in 2 weeks - to a new area where I really don't know about programs, summer camps, etc. So, you can see that my "needs" are a bit unique.
Thanks.
Leese
Subj: Re:Summertime Writing SchedulesI 95-05-12 14:15:03 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Leese: Find out if there's a college or university near where you live with summer students; often they will have a list of students looking for babysitting and cleaning jobs. I was a single parent from the time my kids were 3 and 6 and always worked at home so I know exactly what you're going through. I had some truly wonderful college students at times who my kids really liked and fun with; they usually have the energy and creativity to play and make up new things to do, etc. as well as being pretty responsible. Another possibility would be to call churches in the area, tell them you're new in town, and need a reliable, responsibile sitter; ask what or who they'd recommend. And they might know of summer camps, etc. And one of the best sources is always the YMCA or YWCA; often they have summertime programs for kids as well. Good luck and don't get too discouraged; I have a zillion babysitter experiences ranging from horrible to fantastic and now that my kids are wonderful, delightful adults, I see that even the horrible ones weren't as disasterous as they seemed at the time-- my kids still made it, both have positive memories of several sitters over the years (and one is even coming to my son's wedding). Both too had many experiences of being told "Mommy has to work now" ; they learned, we all survived, it's all possible. Anyway good luck-- and hang in.
Kathie
Subj: Re:Success & Driven to Distracti 95-05-12 14:34:09 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
I'm no expert on ADD at all but I couldn't help notice that several of the things on the list are also characteristic of people who are gifted-- or also of what Jung called "intuitive types" who don't think 'logically' but are always dreamy and 'march to a different drummer' (of which I am one and my mother who is definitely a different type was always on me for it; but there are more ways to think and 'organize' than in linear, *logical* ways. And I was always highly creative but not particularly *school-oriented*; school and too much structure/memorization/*order* etc were boring).) Another way to look at some of this is in terms of right brain/left brain dominance (though I guess some people have discounted this theory lately-- I found it helpful). Or one could even look through a lens of gender and ask if there is a bias (i.e. using a male model of *thinking* to judge all). As I said, I really don't know a lot about attention deficit disorder but I would HATE to see a lot of people who do not do things in an *orderly*, linear, logical way take on yet another label and decide they're pathological. From what I do know, people with ADD are really DYSFUNCTIONAL, not just dreamy, scoring high on verbal tests but not getting things in on time, etc. Meaning they can't hold jobs, get anything done, literally have abnormally brief concentration spans.
Ok, end of therapist-type comments; I'd like to stick to writing (as if I *stick* to anything, verbose and dreamy creature that I am :) ).
Kathie who is longing to get back to writing but having to pack and look for apartments and Camelia who also doesn't want to move and leave her squirrel
Subj: Re:Success & Driven to Distracti 95-05-12 18:15:23 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
I have been a secretary in special ed. in the school district for 12 years - work for 14 school psychologists. ADD and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) are not considered definite diagnoses for funding purposes. The same for Autism. There are so many varied symptoms that it is very difficult to diagnose - first you have to do all the testing to rule out other emotional disturbances and physiological impacts on an individual. It's (pardon the expression) crazy. However, almost invariably Ritalin is prescribed and works for some. There are many excellent books that I can check in our psych. library, and lend you the titles if you are interested.
Subj: Re:Summertime Writing SchedulesI 95-05-13 02:28:30 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Thanks, Kathie - - those were some great tips!
:::::printer whirring:::::
;-) Leese
Subj: summer writing 95-05-13 07:02:38 EDT
From: SEDWilkins
Posted on: America Online
You're moving again, Leese? You poor thing! (I abhor packing) When my five little cherubs are home in the summer my writing schedule goes like this: Get up at regular time (6?) pour coffee, go hide in front of computer. Kids float (fall?) downstairs in ones and twos, eat (spill) cold cereal and watch Sesame Street (Bill Nye, Ghostwriter. . .whatever's on public TV) After a couple of hours I'm starving--computer off, down to breakfast and into the day--but with hard copies of whatever I'm working on. So all through swimming lessons and baseball and whatever I have my handy bag of work--which sometimes gets opened and often does not. Then in the late afternoon if the kids are fried or it's raining, I let them watch a Disney movie or have friends over to play board games and I go hide again. It's not terribly efficient but actually the time I spend running around to clubs and lessons during the school year is almost as disruptive. The moral of the story is: the TV as babysitter is okay in controlled doses. and Try to be really "present" to the kids during the time you are with them, and they're more likely to stay out of your hair during the time you're with the muse.
Hope this is worth something!
Subj: Re:Acts of Faith 95-05-13 14:18:47 EDT
From: LeeHarris
Posted on: America Online
Inspirational and supportive -- that what you all are!
It has been interesting to read about being focused. I have always been a person who does many things at the same time - used to get in a lot of trouble. In fact, I was kicked out of an apartment in graduate school for it. But after 40-plus years, have accepted that I am simply different.
While I was in Cincinnati about a month ago, I met a black woman who is a private consultant (like I am). She had a book which was amazing to me. It is written by Iyanla Vanzant, "a Yoruba Priestess, a Cultural Custodian and a Spiritual-Life Counselor". The book is called Acts of Faith, Daily Meditations for People of Color. The very first passage reminded me of all of us. Who or whatever is your divine power (God, Muse, your inner self, etc.) can be called upon in those times of need.
"The stress began the day you learned you were expected to please other people. Parents wanted you to stay clean and be quiet. Neighbors wanted you to be respectful and helpful. Friends wanted you to share and hang out. Whenever you failed to do exactly what someone expected of you, you weren't good, or good enough. You were bad, weak or dumb. Unfortunately, you began to believe it. Giving in to the demands, day by day, you lost a little more of yourself and your understanding of the truth. The truth is you are fine, just the way you are! Perfect in your imperfection! You are divine! Growing brighter and more brilliant every day, you can accept the truth of who you are. The next time you want to know who you are, what you are of if something is the right thing to do, don't ask your neighbor - ask the power within...and pay attention to the response!
The divine power within know exactly who I Am!"
Happy Mother's Day to all. Lydia "Lee" Harris
Subj: Attn Deficit Disorder etc. 95-05-13 16:07:37 EDT
From: Jcmaher
Posted on: America Online
Many years ago my son was in an unfocused uproar enough of the time that I was being pressured to put him on Ritalin. Fortunately, I lived in a city where there was a superb allergist, who pioneered in the field of food allergies as causes of hyperactivity. The culprit turned out to be salicylates (sp?) - in most food dyes, and in many natural foods I thought previously were good for my kid. Changing the diet changed his personality, literally. I often wonder how many of us are affected by foodstuffs like this and don't know it, then end up suppressing the symptoms with additional substances instead of just eliminating the ones causing the problem in the first place. Anyway, just thought I'd post this in case it's of interest to anyone...
Subj: Re:summer writing 95-05-13 16:24:15 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Thnks, Sally. It IS helpful!
Leese
the chronically exhausted these days
Subj: Going 4 Broke 95-05-13 22:38:32 EDT
From: Bulldoglvr
Posted on: America Online
It is wonderful to have such a place to visit as this room! I do read the board every night...and get such a kick out of it all!
The last time I posted, I think it was something about quitting my regular writing job to freelance.
To tell the truth, I was a little sad when some postings sort of threw cold water on the idea! Then, there were the people who said to go for it!
Well, I haven't quit my fulltime job yet, however, I have gotten some freelance work! Nothing glamorous -- just writing a grant proposal and the reworking of several handbooks, business reports and newsletters. BUT! They paid!
My husband now says, "Quit your fulltime job. So what if we have to scrimp! Dogs and cats don't require new shoes...they won't know that we're poor for awhile, and I'll be rich and playing golf every day when the book deals go through!"
What a guy! Anyway...I feel like I have a friend in all of you...I wish cookies on all of you - for me? Well, I'm on a diet...so I'll pig out on Readers Digest tonight!
Subj: Re:Going 4 Broke 95-05-13 23:22:05 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
I think you're approaching it the right way --- testing the waters to see if you can float --- but eventually, and only you'll know when, you'll be ready to jump in and start swimming the freelance lifestyle.
RE: Kids and TV and work --- I probably have the only kids in the world who beg me to let them STOP watching TV --- I do try to limit their time but some days it's the only way to get that little extra work out. On the MomLancer's board someone posted an excellent suggestion about summertime and working with the kids home --- get a big box and fill it with all sorts of art supplies like paper, neat pens, coloring books --- things kids can do on their own, then when you need some time to finish something you can let the kids have a "project" to work on at
the same time. To be honest, I'm still dreading the
summer --- it is so nice to be able to just pick up and run to the library by myself now if I need to check a fact --- plus, it is great to have a few hours of QUIET every day when I can think a thought all the way through...
I know I'll be counting on WWW to keep me sane as the summer madness progresses!
Carolyn
Subj: Re:Wombsters' day 95-05-14 01:08:14 EDT
From: SNewmark
Posted on: America Online
Happy Mother's Day to all Jugglers/Wombsters...
Lord knows, we deserve a week, not just a day.
Being a mother is even harder than being a writer!
Enjoy....
Sandi
Subj: writing pals? 95-05-14 05:54:19 EDT
From: Mikimel
Posted on: America Online
Hi! I'd love to X-change e-mail with some of you. I'm new to this arena.
Melly
Subj: Re:Going 4 Broke 95-05-14 10:24:33 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
I still say, GO FOR IT! You have already seen some success. You CAN make full-time freelancing work!
Leese
Subj: Happy Mother's Day 95-05-14 10:27:24 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Happy Mother's Day to all of the moms. I'll be in Ohio for a few days, but look forward to catching up here wwhen I return!
Peace,
Leese
Subj: Thanks 95-05-14 15:17:49 EDT
From: Deborahlea
Posted on: America Online
Just a note to say thanks for all the gfreat posts. I've printed our several from Kathie, Lee, CArolyn, et al. They touch so many things that I am feeling. I'm putting Artists Way on my list to get this week. I've posted here once before. But I'll try to keep up. This is such a great file. Deborah
Subj: Mother's day/autobiographies 95-05-14 16:56:47 EDT
From: LoneReadr
Posted on: America Online
Hi!
Just wanted to say Happy Mother's Day to all the jugglers who have children. You're amazing to me!
Also, I recently read Janet L Rosen's "The Way of The Woman Writer" it's about writing your own autobiography. It has some interesting ideas and exercises. The book list at the end is pretty good too. However, it's a little slow (or maybe lacking in enthusiasm?) and I recommend checking it out from a library before buying it. The exercises make the reading worth it.
One more thing--I'm getting started on the "Artist's Way" - thanks again for the introduction.
Hope you all have a wonderful and productive week.
Charlette
Subj: Re:Attn Deficit Disorder etc. 95-05-14 17:15:16 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
Interesting... Now are you ready for this? We have a dog, an American Eskimo (Spitz) who would become a drooling, Cujo, whenever my daughter wore a particular sweater..it took us awhile, of course to figure it was the sweater. But an animal behaviorist said it was because the dog was "allergic" to a particular dye in that fabric that drove him nutso.
Subj: Re:writing pals? 95-05-14 18:01:13 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Hi, Melly! Why don
't you join our WWW chat osmetime. E-mail EMFITZ or myself for the info! Carolyn
Subj: To all moms, present and future 95-05-14 18:03:18 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Happy mother's day!!! I spent my morning in bed with
a big box of godiva chocolate and a good book.
Somehow I feel SOOOOOOOOO much better now!
Have a great week! Carolyn
Subj: Re:Mumsy's special day 95-05-14 19:20:53 EDT
From: Lajam1
Posted on: America Online
Happy Mother's Day! Today in Montana there is blue sky and sun for the first time in weeks. Snow has mostly melted to reveal grass greener than ever, crocus and yellow bells stretching, and sounds of rushing water in the creek below the house. What a gift!
I keep looking at other boards and this one takes the prize. Friday I started my fourth week of the Artist's Way. Can't thank you people enough for recommending this book. Sure has helped me shift. Have written a nonfiction piece that I would like someone to read--about Yellowstone Park and a little boy who died there. Anyone want to edit? I have no clue how to get it to you. Just learned how to download, so I guess uploading is next lesson. Any good instructors?
Hope your day was lovely! LJ
Subj: O'Donnal Literary Services 95-05-15 00:19:54 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
Here's the news about O'Donnell Literary Services. It's a big
hoax. After telling me she liked by story, characters, plot, etc.
Kelly O'Donnall said she wanted to publish my book. The key word
here is publish, not buy. For only twelve thousand dollars she
could have 5000 copies ready by Christmas. She believes in the
ms so much she will finance half the money from her personal
account, to be paid back from the royalties. By the way,
royalties are to be divided 75% for her, 25% to me. Plus she
only charges $5 a page if the book needs any editing services.
Doesn't this sound like a great deal? Wait! there's more. If I
don't like this proposal, she would like to be my agent. For
only $450 dollars to cover expenses she will send my work out to
30 publishers a month! Ain't that a peach of a deal?
I doubt if there are 30 publishers who are even reading
adventure\romance novels. A writer friend of mine once said, "It
seems like everyone makes money from the writer, except the
writer." How true. I think the thing writers (I really mean me
here) has to guard against is despair. Stuff like this makes it
all seem like a giant rip-off. Of our time, heart & spirit. Not
to mention the money, equipment of our craft (computers,
printers), self education, books, and soul sweat. Ah drear.
Isn't it dumb? I was prepared mentally for this approach. But,
I forgot to guard my heart. Fransel
Subj: Re:O'Donnal Literary Services 95-05-15 12:47:41 EDT
From: DCHAM
Posted on: America Online
francel--thanks for sharing what you've learned about this 'agency'. i've been reading her posts with great concern, worried that some writers might be taken in by her promises. you should not have to pay an agent for anything until you start earning money from your book.
-when do you guys have your chats?
diane
Subj: Re:Summertime Writing SchedulesI 95-05-15 14:06:55 EDT
From: SCUBBAHEY
Posted on: America Online
Leese --
Whew! You do have a lot on your plate! But you'll be using up so much energy, you'll be able to eat boxes of Milano's with no worries... : )
I ditto Doso's idea of college students who baby sit -- I did this all four years I went to college, and had regulars -- I became like part of the family, was great seeing the kids grow over the four years -- its now twelve years later, and I'm still in contact with two of the familys! One of the girls I babysat has a baby of her own now -- I feel like an aunt!! Stace.
Subj: RE: Going 4 Broke 95-05-15 14:42:29 EDT
From: JEErwin
Posted on: America Online
Bulldoglvr asks about quitting a fulltime job and becoming a freelancer. I say: Yes! DO IT! I did it last Halloween after almost 13 years (since college) of working fulltime at newspaper and p.r. jobs, juggling husband and kids and house and volunteer work. When I realized I was unhappy and letting those juggled things fall more and more, I threw in the towel - well, not right away. My husband and I had several heart-to-hearts and made plans for a couple of months. I'm much happier, my family is happier, and I'm getting jobs and receiving paychecks (granted, not as regularly as I'd like ;-) ). I signed onto AOL last month and have been delighted to find all these writing topics and discussion groups; it's a great support and inspiration.
Thanks to you all and I would like to participate regularly,
jane
Subj: re: summer writing schedules 95-05-15 18:41:55 EDT
From: Arabie
Posted on: America Online
I am so amazed by all of you wonderful women writers with children and families...how do you do it? Such an inspiration to me, a single childless woman that can barely control her two cats and work let alone so many other things... but anyway besides being inspired I thought some of you might be interested in this wonderful book called THE WRITER AND HER WORK it's an anthology edited by Janet Sternburg and it addresses some of things that you all have been writing about. One of my favorites is by Anne Tyler, she writes about juggling her life and her writing. I highly recommend this. I don't know, when I have problems writing I like to read about other women writers and how they cope. This book has really helped me in that way. Just like this board...thanks for the interesting conversations...and if anyone knows of any other books like THE WRITER ON HER WORK I would love to read about them. I hope everyone is having a brilliant day. Peace love and poetry- Maria.
Subj: Trading in my day job (maybe) 95-05-15 20:46:18 EDT
From: EL Coleman
Posted on: America Online
At least I'm contemplating trading in half of it! I have a chance to write the text for a book of photos of Santa Fe's "Living Treasures" (people, some of whom are quite advanced in years) to be published by Western Edge Press. At least, I have a pretty good shot at it. My husband has agreed that I could cut back to working half time (I've been locked into an eight hour day for nine years now, many of you have had to listen to my incessant grumbling)...That is, if I get the contract! You've all been such an inspiration to me. Most of all, I see how you overcome obstacles and put writing first, how you juggle everything and write, write, write. To Jajam1, I would be glad to edit your story on Yellowstone, but if you do e-mail it to me, please do so soon...on May 25, I'm going back to Virginia to visit my ailing parents for five days, back May 31. Love and milanos to all, Elaine
Subj: Children and Juggling - Coping 95-05-16 11:40:30 EDT
From: Writer2544
Posted on: America Online
Thanks for the suggestion of food allergy and ADD - that was interesting!
Juggling with children - some things I did to cope:
When I was working, going to University, and running my own business on the side there never seemed to be enough time to do anything else. My kids were 1 year apart in age and I was a single mom. When they were really young I kept them occupied with toys and a collection of kids music. I went to as many garage sales as I had time for and collected lots of good toys like Fisher Price etc. Then I got 8 child sized cardbord boxes from the grocery store. they were about child waist high and quite wide. I bought some colorful rolls of *sale priced* odds and ends vinyl wallpaper - then I folded the box top flanges in to stiffen it - then covered the entire box inside and out with the vinyl. I put an assortment of toys in each box. When I needed some time to get things done I put a child gate in the doorway of an empty carpeted room with them and 1 box. I sat in there for a bit and showed them how each toy worked. Then I escaped to my task. Each time I put them in the playroom they got a *new* box of toys to play with. I put some *new* kids music on - not loud - mostly soothing. This usually kept them interested for at least an hour. Whenever they fought over the same toy I simply went in there and took it away - eventually they learned to share without fighting.
When they got older I started collecting things like toilet paper rolls, paper towel rolls, bottle caps left over from recycled bottles, empty shampoo bottles, - all sorts of junk. I bought colored craft paper, paper punches, sparkles, water paints, fabric bits, yarn bits, and child's paper glue. Again garage sales were good sources of craft supplies - usually inexpensive. Another good place to buy supplies is a teachers store - I found large containers of powdered paints, modeling clay and other supplies. (a modeling clay can also be made from Baking soda - and paper mache is also cheap, easy to make and fun). I stored the stuff - sorted - in old shoe boxes and covered the work area with one of those cheap plastic tablecloths. After they were done I rinsed it in the bathtub to get rid of sticky spots and hung it to dry over the shower bar. I sat down with them for a while and created a few things to give them ideas. I made certain they sat with plenty of space between to ensure that they concentrated on their projects and not squabbling. We had a little contest for the best of the day - the prize was a piece of chocolate - one of the squares from a bar. We voted on scraps of paper - each child had a number of his own - and all three would put their secret vote in a container - I'd read them out and tally - a tie meant 2 prizes - three seperate votes meant - no prize today. Toilet paper rolls and pipe cleaners are great for making animals. A flower shaped cutout slipped around the toilet roll end made a great lions head if the roll end was pinched closed. Eventually I taught them to make pom poms and tassels with bits of wool and they began to use these for noses, tails and other features. This exercise is good for making Christmas ornaments. Kids love to see the creations they made during the year, grace the tree - and they can become keepsakes too, with a date and name added - something they treasure later on in life. Paper mache is great for making halloween masks and can be painted with (water based) powder paints. Kids can have lots of fun creating costumes for themselves - with a little guidance. I found it best to create an example for them as a guideline and have a short discussion about making things too long - ie you might trip on it, making eye holes large enough to ensure good vision etc. As a preparation for the project I collected tearsheets of monsters and characters from magazines, newspaper clipping and the like and tossed them into a box - by Halloween I had a good collection for them to study and select from - their costumes were often designed from
continued....
Subj: cont'd Children and Juggling 95-05-16 11:45:43 EDT
From: Writer2544
Posted on: America Online
their costumes were often designed from a collection of ideas from these
clippings.
I found that if I took them to the park or out for exercise too close to their bedtime they were rambunctious and couldn't get to sleep - so I learned to take them out just before supper and then have quiet time thereafter. Bedtime was usually less disruptive that way.
Kids and time change - maybe you've tried it already but here goes anyway: What I used to do is 31 days before the change I'd set a small
clock and the bedside clocks either 2 minutes fast or slow each night before bed - then everyone's schedule changed the next day by 2 minutes - by the time the change came we were all used to the difference - with only 1 year apart - and my job and school well - I would have gone insane without tricks like this - and it gave me a few minutes more in the morning to get things done - and I still do it as it helps keep me on track smoothly.
I hope this is of use to those of you that juggle with young children. Extra Milanos for you - 000000 - All the best - Pam :-)
Subj: Re: Children and Juggling 95-05-16 13:17:40 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
For all of you with young kids: two things that absolutely saved my sanity as a single mom--
This idea came from my mother-in-law and was ingenuous. She loved her grandkids and longed to be with them much more often than possible so would make 'story-tapes' of herself reading stories for the kids. I took this idea and used it in two ways-- first, I often found that by the end of a long day, working, going to school, tending kids, the usual jugglers' stuff but with no other adult in the house (or other adult's income!), I was tired and cranky and just wanted them to GO TO SLEEP so I could breathe. the old 'quality time' stuff was big then and I was TIRED. So I did two things that saved us all. When I read bedtime stories to them, I started recording them-- pretty soon we built up a little library of stories complete with their comments too which they also loved to hear. Then I let them take turns choosing which stories they wanted to listen to; sometimes in addition to ones I'd read, sometimes (when I was too tired) instead of. The stories were at least 15 minutes long which a) kept them lying down quietly in bed and b) usually was enough time for even my VERY lively daughter to fall asleep. Whew!! Accomplishment! And we all liked it. I also used this whenever we made long car-trips; it was a godsend. Two kids sitting in the backseat running the tape recorder themselves listening to our library of stories-- it worked!! and kept us all sane and nonlethal. The other idea, what was the other idea? Forgot it; sorry (all brain cells are trained to apartment-hunt or avoid apartment-hunting now; writing-- what's that? Missing it a LOT.)
Kathie who sometimes now wishes she had little ones to read to
Oh -- another thing: I also used this reading stories onto tapes when the kids were separated from me, like at their dad's or grandmother's. Their one grandma was so eager to have them and when my daughter was very little it was hard for her to be away from me and for many years, especially hard for her at bedtime (and sometimes in later years I had to work at night far away and wouldn't be there for bedtime); the story tape gave her my voice at the time she needed it most and was a real help-- not as good for either of us as the full presence but enough when the full presence was impossible. Glad to pass these ideas on and to read the ingenious ideas from others. Sure wish I had had this board all the way around when I was still raising kids and despairing about how to ever be ENOUGH and still breathe and have some life of my own (BUT I am at the other end now with really lovely adult children and I can tell you, it DOES all work out and some of the things we despair over are NOT so critical in the end!)
Bye for now (back to the real estate ads).
Kathie (and Camelia who is tracking flies).
Subj: Juggling 95-05-16 13:53:11 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Thank you Kathie and Writer 2544 for all the great lifesaving ideas about keeping kids busy. I've been getting increasingly nervous as summer draws closer --- I don't want to stop sending queries out now that I'm on a roll but I'm worried that I won't have time to do it all.
Kathie, the idea of the tapes is especially timely. I just found out that my husband is going to PARIS on a business trip in June --- and I can go too. However,
it's the kid's last week of school so I have a horrible
case of the guilts about leaving them. Never been away from them for more than 2 days --- But, the tape idea is a real winner!
Elaine - Go for the book - Sounds fascinating! Hope it works out for you.
Carolyn
Subj: Hello All !!! 95-05-16 18:17:44 EDT
From: LadyKellie
Posted on: America Online
Hi everyone !! I just found this board two days ago and have thoroughly enjoyed reading the "old" posts !! What a wonderful group of women you all are,-- and what a heavenly place to retreat when the rest of the world just doesn't understand the desire, and need, to write !!
A short background bio: I am 26 yrs old and am attempting to finish school while working full time. My passion for writing, however, was rekindled these last few semesters (during several literature and creative writing courses) and has *refused* to take a back seat to anything, including school, work, marriage, etc. :) How wonderful to find that I'm not alone !! (and definitely *not* crazy)
You all have inspired me to continue my journey -- whereever it may lead -- and I hope to join the "Jugglers" one of these nights soon !!
Kelly
Subj: Re:O'donnall Lit 95-05-16 19:35:03 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
Does anyone have the above online address? I want my ms back but don't even want to waste a stamp to request it. I can e-mail a short sentence quick. (ie: Send back ms. immediately.) Thanks if you can help, e-mail me! Fran
Subj: Re:To all moms, present and futu 95-05-16 20:13:33 EDT
From: NEWSCAT
Posted on: America Online
Godiva and chocolates? Sounds positively, wonderfully decadent.
Reminds me of when I got home late once from covering a story and found everyone aslee and strawberries in the fridge. While I steeped in a bubbly tub, my favorite place for relaxation and inspiration, I ate strawberry shortcake with Cool Whip
UUUUMMMMMMM.
Subj: Good news, LOL, dance around.... 95-05-16 20:14:07 EDT
From: NEWSCAT
Posted on: America Online
Guess what?! I've won another writing award!!! When it rains, it pours! Nothing for years and now two awards in one year!
I found out today that the state Associated Press is giving me a second place award for non-deadline reporting by paper's under 25,000 circulation. It's for a story I wrote earlier this year on a former preschool teacher suing the city school system. Wouldn't have been my selection for a prize winner, but who am I to argue with these clearly brilliant judges?!
Subj: Re:Good news, LOL, dance around. 95-05-16 21:01:11 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Yippees, congrats, balloons, and Milanos, Newscat!
Subj: Re:O'donnall Lit 95-05-16 21:10:34 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Fransel, I will email you too but I feel so concerned that you sent anything to this person that I went hunting for her screen name and wanted to post it too for anyone else who needed it. It's Kelly Writ.
Kathie
Subj: Re:O'donnall Lit 95-05-16 22:13:37 EDT
From: KyPn
Posted on: America Online
There is an "interesting" batch of posts in the Writer's Market Message Center under two folders, both having agent or literay agent in the titles. One would be wise to read these before dealing with them. Not sure what it's all about, but it is entertaining. Kathy
Subj: Re:O'donnall Lit 95-05-16 21:10:34 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Fransel, I will email you too but I feel so concerned that you sent anything to this person that I went hunting for her screen name and wanted to post it too for anyone else who needed it. It's Kelly Writ.
Kathie
Subj: Re:O'donnall Lit 95-05-16 22:13:37 EDT
From: KyPn
Posted on: America Online
There is an "interesting" batch of posts in the Writer's Market Message Center under two folders, both having agent or literay agent in the titles. One would be wise to read these before dealing with them. Not sure what it's all about, but it is entertaining. Kathy
Subj: Yeah, NewsCat 95-05-16 23:47:45 EDT
From: EL Coleman
Posted on: America Online
Hooray for your SECOND award...we are all so happy for you!!!!!!! And thanks to everyone for the encouragement to go to part-time work for this potential book contract. My husband is very leery of the idea, so your support means a great deal. I'll keep you posted. Elaine
Subj: Re:Good news, LOL, dance around. 95-05-17 09:06:26 EDT
From: RSLatham
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations!!!
:::::APPLAUSE:::::::
Rachel
Subj: Alone 95-05-17 16:31:56 EDT
From: Mensor
Posted on: America Online
Alone
by:Jennifer Gordon
I sit here crying all alone while the others laugh and my" friends" moan.
I wish someone would care, i wish just one true friend would be there
Who will stand up for me and not just be there to see.
I wish one my lucky star that that someone would care not look from a far.
That ismy life as sad as it may be i'll cry and cry till a true friend will come for me.
I am only 12 and i have many other poems. I am also looking to publish them. If you liked my poem e-mail Mensor. Thanx
Subj: Re:Good news, LOL, dance around. 95-05-17 16:42:58 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Congrats Newscat!!! The sun is shining on your life!
Carolyn
Subj: Back from OH 95-05-17 17:52:04 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Just got in last night, and although I have a TON of stuff to do before the move (in one week), I just had to pop in and see how things have been.
How exciting! Possible book assignment ... awards ... lots of encouraging and helpful information ... WOW.
Milanos to everyone ()()()()()()
Leese
Subj: A question 95-05-17 17:56:16 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
An editor called while I was gone. I had sent in a requested manuscript months ago (literally), and about 2 months ago, she'd asked me to fax another copy pronot ... which I did. I had to send yet another follow-up letter, and that was what the call was about. Well, I talked with this woman today - briefly- and the gist is, she wants a rewrite. A major rewrite. The assignment had been "on spec", but I feel the need to ask for a contract at this point, because she needs "professional" information from reputable sources.
What would YOU do in this situation? When I'd queried and sent the manuscript, I had plenty of time for the project ... now I have tons going on (incl;uding some rather large projects). I don't know what the "ethical" response is. Help.
Leese
Subj: thank you 95-05-17 18:33:43 EDT
From: NEWSCAT
Posted on: America Online
thanks y'all (Newscat with Southern drawl) for the support. I think y'all are a great bunch. My response on the newswriters' board was not so nice, "Who cares...who cares."
I don't understand that, I'm happy for anyone who "does good," whether it's a win or pleasant life experience.
Subj: Re:thank you 95-05-17 21:52:25 EDT
From: Limn
Posted on: America Online
We ALL care. We all Cheer all of the bonus times! Congrats. Limn
Subj: Re:thank you 95-05-17 23:51:10 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
A bag of Milano crumbs with a hole in it to the newswriters board, NEWSCAT! What sour grapes! Accomplishments are to be celebrated; there's room and value for ALL our writing voices--
Kathie (and Camelia who also has a voice but doesn't write yet)
Subj: Re:thank you 95-05-18 01:20:01 EDT
From: Wiley 5
Posted on: America Online
Hey, Newscat, don't listen to "them"! They're just jealous, of course. We're not. We're just plain happy for you! Be pleased & proud. You deserve it! Enjoy & celebrate & listen to us - we care.
Peggy
Subj: Re:O'Donnal Literary Services 95-05-18 06:34:31 EDT
From: Bellesprit
Posted on: America Online
Thanks for sharing this information with everyone. This kind of thing is so unfortunate, and it seems that many writers are taken in by it. I met a fascinating woman who was about 75 years old. She's had great adventures in her life and had written her memoirs. Unfortunately, when it came to getting published, she didn't know what she was doing. She had paid (and, essentially, lost) hundreds of dollars to agents who charge big reading fees and was almost taken in by a publisher like this one. Happy to report that the last time I spoke with her she was looking for a "real" agent.
I hope this didn't discourage you in any way. Keep looking for the right agent & publisher. You'll get there!
Subj: Taping your stories 95-05-18 07:00:36 EDT
From: Bellesprit
Posted on: America Online
Several posts ago there was talk of taping stories for the kids. Great idea. But don't stop there. Adults also love being read to, especially by someone special to them. I started doing this quite a few years ago when a dear friend was recovering from cervical cancer. I would go to visit and read her stories - adult stories or childrens stories. Sometimes I would make up a story on the spot. I taped some for her so she could listen when she woke in the night and felt all alone. I did the same thing when I was working with people with AIDS. And again for a man I was in love with (who was quite healthy) when we were going to be in different parts of the world for a while. I've always loved telling and reading stories. *And* I also love to be read to; very soothing & comforting, I find. I highly recommend it to everyone.
And on another note - Way to *go*, Newscat!!! We're all proud of you. Forget about those grumps. They probaly feel diminished because you got this award and they didn't. Whereas, here, we feel you are part of us; so we truly share in your triumph.
Elaine, *do* go for the book. It sounds like a great opportunity to write and be around some fascinating people.
{{{{everybody}}}
Belle
:->
Subj: Re:Good news 95-05-18 09:44:20 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
Hey NEWSCAT, Artist's Way says keep negative folks at arms distance. So to Heck with'em. Congrats from those who matter! :) Also a last note on O'Donnall. I got the info from Writer Market, not any of the boards. If I'd read any of her messages beforehand, I'd have known better than to send ANYTHING. The listing doesn't read like the facts at all. Sometime I wonder if WM does any checking at all. Write good stuff, Fran
Subj: Re:O'Donnal Literary Services 95-05-18 12:24:53 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
I wonder if someone shouldn't send an e-mail complaining about how this women is misrepresenting her services to AOL --- It should come from someone who has direct experience with her. I've heard that AOL frowns on this sort of false
advertising on-line. Carolyn
Subj: Re:Newscat 95-05-18 12:28:40 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Newscat, I couldn't believe that nasty message on
the news writers board --- but then that board tends to be particularly unsupportive and nasty (IMHO).
For me personally,whenever I read of another success here on WWW it spurs me into thinking "I can do it too!" rather than "Everyone is succeeding but ME!"
I love reading about everyone's successes here --- it is a terrific motivator! So, everyone, keep on trying
I need LOT'S of MOTIVATION!!!
Carolyn
Subj: Re:O'Donnal Literary Services 95-05-18 12:24:53 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
I wonder if someone shouldn't send an e-mail complaining about how this women is misrepresenting her services to AOL --- It should come from someone who has direct experience with her. I've heard that AOL frowns on this sort of false
advertising on-line. Carolyn
Subj: Re:Newscat 95-05-18 12:28:40 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Newscat, I couldn't believe that nasty message on
the news writers board --- but then that board tends to be particularly unsupportive and nasty (IMHO).
For me personally,whenever I read of another success here on WWW it spurs me into thinking "I can do it too!" rather than "Everyone is succeeding but ME!"
I love reading about everyone's successes here --- it is a terrific motivator! So, everyone, keep on trying
I need LOT'S of MOTIVATION!!!
Carolyn
Subj: good news--but now I'm busy! 95-05-18 13:02:59 EDT
From: SEDWilkins
Posted on: America Online
Leese--
Write or call and say "so glad you're interested--I anticipate that I can have the first draft of the re-write ready for you in --months. Give yourself time to finish all the other stuff and work on it, too. Publishers don't mark time in weeks, they mark it in eons! I know two women whose re-writes took over two years between the initial sale and final manuscript acceptance--with delays on both sides. So I don't think a few months one way or another will blow your sale. After all, it took them two months to send their first letter, right?
Anybody else had similar experiences? --Sally
Subj: Re:good news--but now I'm busy! 95-05-18 18:09:39 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Sally (and everyone)~
I had to share this 'cuz it cracks me up. Yes, I waited 6 months to be told a rewrite will be necessary. But better than that is my experience today. I am doing a chapter in the book on Writers' Conferences & my publisher wants an editorial perspective included as well. I sat down with my writers' market guides and started calling editors today. After 7 calls, I'd only connected with one editor - a wonderful guy who was willing to be interviewed on the spot. The rest were either voice mail, or "Sorry, Mr. so & so has left for the day."
My point? It seems to carry over into telephone contact as well ;-)
:::sigh:::
By the way, if any of you want your critique groups or worshops listed in this book, let me know via email. The book has a Christian emphasis - but is not exclusively so.
Peace,
Leese
P.S. Thanks Sally. I'll give that a try. If she wants it fast, though, then I feel a contract is not too much to ask <g> - - all things considered.
Subj: More on editors... 95-05-18 19:39:47 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
OK here's my editorial gripe of the day. I approached an editor about an article on a business topic that I have lots of experience in. She was pretty iffy about it. Then called and asked who I would use as sources.
I gave her a list of names. A few days later she called again and said she'd assigned the topic to another writer. I wasn't thrilled but figured, hey,
maybe this other writer has oodles of writing experience.
The other writer (freelance) called ME this weekend.
She said she had no experience in this topic and wanted to interview me so she could learn the basics. I explained that I couldn't really help her out
and referred her to some additional places to look for information (yes, she'd already tried to contact my sources...) She was quite huffy about the fact that I wouldn't help her... but I felt like if I was such an expert, the editor should have given the assignment to me.
My husband, however, feels I should have been helpful in hopes of gaining favor with the editor. I don't know, what do you all think?
Carolyn
Subj: Re:More on editors... 95-05-18 21:45:50 EDT
From: CathyDM
Posted on: America Online
Carolyn,
I think you did the right thing in sending that writer on without your help. I wouldn't want to gain favor with the kind of editor who takes my ideas and gives them to writers who have less knowledge!
Cathy
Subj: Re:More on editors... 95-05-18 22:06:09 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
Personally I can't believe the gall of both the editor, And the writer. I wonder how editors ever got where they are. Not much common sense, sometimes. I don't think we are obligated to give away our 'stuff.' That's how we make a living. I've found on this business I have a better gut feeling than my husband. Trust yourself. Best, Fran
Subj: Re:More on editors... 95-05-18 23:33:49 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
I think you were MORE than generous, Carolyn! Who needs an editor who will go behind your back like that? Ick.
Kathie
Subj: Re:good news--but now I'm busy! 95-05-18 23:36:14 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Leese-- I loved your ingenious 'slip of the keyboard'! You wrote about 'worshops'-- for a Christian slant on writers' conferences! :) Ah Freud never saw we were so creative!
Kathie
Subj: Re:article 95-05-18 23:38:14 EDT
From: WestmorJW
Posted on: America Online
Carolyn, I'd do the same thing you did. That editor pulled a dirty trick on you, I think. Don't worry about the huffy woman. She can do her own leg work.
Julie
Subj: Letterphobia! 95-05-18 23:39:26 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Dear All,
I have this total block around cover letters for sending out fiction. Many people have told me HOW to do it-- but I'd like to SEE some real ones! If any of you who have published short stories have cover letters you would let me see, send copies of them to me via email. I'd be really grateful (and will you Milanos!). Thanks.
Kathie (who is giving up apartment hunting and living in a cave with her muse) (when muse gets back from Borneo) (maybe tomorrow) (or in the year 2003)
Subj: Re:Hi! (connierine) 95-05-19 04:58:45 EDT
From: BS MEYERS
Posted on: America Online
I feel about the same way you do! I've been on-line for a while... but just discovered the 'Ladies Area' tonight. I have learned a couple things already: this is a great place to come and fellowship with other writers; I NEED to go buy some Milanos; and I need to write! let's both hang in here.....!
Subj: tapping into a new resource 95-05-19 05:11:22 EDT
From: BS MEYERS
Posted on: America Online
I was happily reading previous messages... even decided to leave a response to one of them... then I realized I was reading things written three months ago! I think I've missed a great deal by not tapping into this resource months ago!
Subj: Re:My AOL trip 95-05-19 10:50:58 EDT
From: SNewmark
Posted on: America Online
Here's an update: I will be in NY-NJ -Philly-Washington area from June 9-12 (approx) & would like to meet anyone within range of Amtrak station during that time !!!! Please leave me Email direct to SNewmark, as I must make final plans by end of May.
Look forward to seeing some of you....
Sandi
Subj: Good things happen!~ 95-05-19 13:57:06 EDT
From: RSLatham
Posted on: America Online
Welcome to Kelly and BS Meyers!
Carolyn~ I would have done exactly the same thing. The nerve of the writer AND the editor. Always trust your instincts, because you were certainly right on this one.
Leese~Good luck with your move...you are amazing to have so much going on and still be smiling. We'll all still be here when you plug the computer in at your new home. The first thing in your new kitchen will be Milanos, right?? : )
Good news.... the editor that accepted my last article called me this morning and offered me another assignment AND said she would make up a file in her office for me as a contributing writer. : ) Needless to say- I'm so excited! I had never recieved a call from an editor before.
This board is magical!
Rachel
Subj: RE:The Artists Way 95-05-19 14:48:02 EDT
From: DEmery6014
Posted on: America Online
Ther is a groups of artists ( women) on the east coast of Florida who are using that book. I have bought it and read the first chapter, but the morning pages are difficult for me.
Is anyone else working with it.
It would be neat to get a group going here,
DEBE
Subj: Re:Good things happen!~ 95-05-19 16:48:57 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Rachel, that is so great!!! And what a super tagline that will be on future queries you send out to be able to say you're a contributing writer! Congratulations!
Thanks everyone for the support about whether I did the right thing. One of the best parts of this group is having a place to go for feedback. And, of course, if
Any of YOU happened to call asking for help I'd be happy to oblige...!!!
Have a nice weekend. Carolyn
Subj: Re:RE:The Artists Way 95-05-19 16:51:05 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
I think there is an artist's way folder under non-fiction or fiction....The hard part of the program for me wasn't writing the morning pages --- it was the week when you weren't supposed to read anything. I thought I would go crazy but I did get a lot done. I wonder if reading AOL would count?
I'm planning on starting a second go-round through the program this summer --- I feel like so much has changed since I did the Artist's Way last fall.
Carolyn
Subj: Re:Good things happen!~ 95-05-20 09:57:46 EDT
From: Bellesprit
Posted on: America Online
Rachel! Good for you. Congratulations on becoming an official contributing writer.
:-)
Belle
Subj: Re:Good things happen!~ 95-05-20 19:22:28 EDT
From: NEWSCAT
Posted on: America Online
Rachel, that's fantastic!!!!
Subj: Re:Good things happen!~ 95-05-20 22:23:28 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
Update: re: column. They did accept my title, Point of View. The first installlment was published Friday, 19th, I called it Honor. Now, to come up with one every week! It's pretty exciting. Small paper, small pay. Just right to learn. I'm blessed.
Fran
Subj: Re:Good things happen!~ 95-05-20 23:03:27 EDT
From: Wiley 5
Posted on: America Online
Rachel - contributing writer! How wonderful! You're on your way!
Carolyn - I wrote a note to you but AOL froze & I gave up - everyone else said the same thing I did - unbelievable that someone would do something like that! And I'd say you were more than gracious with the help you did give her.
And Cindy - CLC4158 - I made up a list of words for you as requested, but my E-mail was rejected: "not a known user" or whatever... How are we to get things to you????
So many things I wanted to respond to, but can't think of them now!! : )
Peggy
Subj: I like this folder 95-05-21 00:21:32 EDT
From: Screenfeem
Posted on: America Online
I am a woman screenwriter, and my experiences in the screenwriters folders have been less than nurturing. I even started my own folder, Women Screenwriters - guess what happened? The men are taking over. It's not that I dislike them - really!!! I just was looking for nurturing female type energy. When I read the posts in here, I feel warm and cozy - out there in movieland - it's verrrry cold. I'm wondering if it means I'm writing in the wrong arena. I know movieland is a boy's club, but I was really hoping to connect with some women like me (kinda sensitive and wholesome). Any other women who write screenplays in here?
A warm hello to all of you - Danna
Subj: Re:I like this folder 95-05-21 10:01:08 EDT
From: JuliPierce
Posted on: America Online
Hi Everyone....
I've been in and out of the writer's club message center for quite awhile now.
I must admit that this folder is more than I expected it to be.
I'll be sure to check in on a regular basis now.
Been doing too much wishing and hoping for too long. It's time to get serious about my writing. I've found an editor, locally who has been really great, she is starting a weekly publication in our area. I will be talking with her this evening about first assignments, the first issue is to be published June 15th.
She is working on a format similar to that of a magazine that she has been the editor of for three years. The copy she brought to the interview really looked good and I am enthusiastic about writing for her on a steady basis.
Still, if I am to give up my regular job, (which I dread going into each day) I know that I need to get my work out there.
Any suggestions on motivation will be appreciated....
Regards to All,
Julie
Subj: Re:I like this folder 95-05-21 10:03:34 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
Screenfem - I've been looking for you. Glad you turned up here. Have a screenplay that I use as a doorstop, and the edges are now curling a bit. I'd love to get into some dialogue about resurrecting it. In my research on a particular celebs. career I found that all of the reviews and books I read were written by men! These sensitive new-age guys...or old farts from the dark ages when chauvenism reigned supreme. My play is about a woman of strength and courage..so I guess that makes me a feminist. Hooray! LelaJune
Subj: Re:I like this folder/Julie 95-05-21 10:21:21 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Julie~
If you're tackling nonfiction articles ... think spin-off. Look at each article idea as a single facet of a larger gem, and examine other facets.
Example ... I did a piece on Homeschooling with a chronic illness, which led to another piece on coping with a child who has CP for a regional parenting mag and another piece on deaf scientists ... which led to spin-off ideas for major mags. One idea has brought (so far) 5 assignments with another in the works.
Last week, I sat with a writer friend (a woman) and we brainstormed for an hour for ideas for HER to use and pitch. She just quit her job a month ago. In one hour she had three pages of ideas. She's written 8 query letters in 3 days ... with at least a dozen more to go.
Example - her child has ADD, and there are lots of slants of that subject which haven't yet been discussed (preschoolers, college kids, etc.). Also, she writes fiction and has to do a lot of preliminary research on her topic ... that idea went to several writers' mags yesterday. She has miltary experience, so she's pitching a number of ideas to military mags. Etc.
What kinds of things have happened to you (or do you have some experience with) that could help others? Can you find a fresh angle on these things for queries? Do you have any expertise in any areas?
Think newspapers & local publications ... then specialty and trade mags ... then mainstream.
Good luck!
Peace,
Leese
Subj: Artists Way 95-05-21 11:09:05 EDT
From: Deborahlea
Posted on: America Online
DEBE, I live on east coast of Florida. Can you tell me about group using this book? Where in Florida? Thank you. Deborah
Subj: Re:I like this folder 95-05-21 13:02:34 EDT
From: SCUBBAHEY
Posted on: America Online
Hey screenfeem--
You bet! Plotpnt and I do. Happy to have you in this wonderful *safe* *encouraging* place! I don't bother with the screenplay/hollywood folders any more. Welcome to the fold (er)! Stace.
Subj: Re:I like this folder 95-05-21 15:24:38 EDT
From: LuluJay
Posted on: America Online
Hi everyone--
I, too, am happy to have found this folder. I just fired my agent 2 months ago (screenwriting & tv), and I feel liberated but somewhat adrift. I find Hollywood a pretty nauseating place, and I have no desire to be--or even work--there. I have my latest script out to a few indies, and if it happens, great, if not, that's life. I'm also writing a little for a magazine at which I'm a contributing editor, which is good, and after attending the ASJA conference yesterday, my head is swimming with ideas. I'm also working on a novel that will most likely turn into a screenplay. (I don't like the screenwriting folders, either. I think some of the nastiest people on the planet hang out there!)
I'm glad to be here, and I look forward to exchanging with other women writers.
Lori
Subj: Re:I like this folder 95-05-21 16:53:25 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Hello to all the new friends. This folder is probably the BEST motivator there is...I have found that on the days when all seems hopeless, a visit to WWW gets the words flowing again. Also, you might be interested in our weekly chats and critique sessions.
E-mail me or EMFitz if you're interested in joining us some evening.
Peggy, thanks for thinking of me. Have you forgotten to pay your AOL bill this month? (just kidding).
To everyone else who offered advice about my recent experience, thank you. I think the point is well taken that we have to all learn to trust our own judgement
(and, of course, the judgement of our fellow WWW's!)
Fran --- I am so excited for you! Your own column is
a wonderful opportunity. You'll quickly have a clip book to envy!
Leese --- thanks to your constant reminders about
spin-off articles I spent some time this weekend looking at my recently published pieces and came up
with 6 or 7 spin-off ideas for each of them (which,
since several of the articles were about GOATs for a farm publication, I found pretty surprising. I didn't think I could come up with any ideas for other stories related to GOATs --- )
Anyhow, have a good week everyone. Remember, keep believing in magic. It works!
Carolyn
Subj: Checking in... 95-05-21 18:59:47 EDT
From: EL Coleman
Posted on: America Online
Kudos to Rachel, welcome to new people, congratulations to Carolyn for doing the right thing, and cheers and milanos to Fransel (hope you can share one of your POINT OF VIEW columns with us some chat evening). I'm not going to be able to post a message from May 25 to 31, as I'll be in Virginia visiting my ailing parents, a journey I dread in many ways. (Oh, for a power book!) I will greatly miss all of you. No word yet on the possible book (Santa Fe's Living Treasures), but I hope by the time I'm back, I'll have heard something. Happy writing, all. Elaine
Subj: Re:Workshops, et al 95-05-21 22:37:37 EDT
From: AlyceMaySk
Posted on: America Online
International Women's Writing Guild, every summer at Skidmore. I was told the Guild was going on line with AOL, Internet and World Wide Web. Its a wonderful organization, and I was thinking I could go this summer, to the 9 day workshop (it's great, supportive and filled with published, inspiring women ), but since Ive just bought my computer, I may have to forgo it. I checked out "ies" or Classes or Courses and am signing up for one taught online. Im a freelance writer, teacher and am writing a suspense novel, e mail me if you know anything about crazy military personnel.
Ladies, get info on IWWG, contact Hanalore Hahn, the director at mailing address: Caller box 810 Gracie Station New York, NY 10028 fax her at 212-737-9469 or call 212-737-7536. I don't know the online name yet.
Gary Provost is dead, one of my favorite New England writer, probably the only supportive male writer Ive had the pleasure to meet. If it weren't for AOL I wouldn't have known.
Keep writing!
Subj: Re:Workshop and IWWG and Gary Pr 95-05-21 23:01:48 EDT
From: AlyceMaySk
Posted on: America Online
The guild, is, "a constantly expanding network for the personal and professional empowerment of women through writing. It is also a guide for accessing authenticity, depth and sacredness through the written word and through the joyous camaraderie of its thousands of members". There are many reasons to join....Call Hannelore and tell her Alyce Skelton suggested online that you request a copy of Network, the IWWG newsletter, it's filled with great contacts and opportunities.
Subj: Re:Workshop and IWWG and Gary Pr 95-05-21 23:25:47 EDT
From: AlyceMaySk
Posted on: America Online
Also, I forgot to mention that Gary Provost's books about writing are very helpful and inspiring. Gary and Natalie Goldberg and Larry Block are among the many talented people that are required reading in my class. Read Wild Mind by Goldberg, Writing Lies for Fun and Profit by Larry Block, and anything you can find that Gary has written. He had a small publication that showed query letters, book proposals that I had hoped to get to sell in my classes. I thought I'd have another chance to talk to him about the availability of that book.....
Well, I hope he's on another assignment up there.
Subj: Hey Scubba, Plot, and Lela 95-05-22 00:04:19 EDT
From: Screenfeem
Posted on: America Online
Glad to find you other screenwriters in here! I feel better already leaving the Hollywood folders. Lela, I just fired my agent, too and also feel adrift. Ditto on Hollywood - yuk. The last time I was there I knew I was sucked in when I asked my brother to drive me by Nichole Simpson's house. I'm so ashamed!!!
I'd like to E-mail you all - you'll be hearing from me soon. Also, hello to all of you other women writers out there. I wish you the best of luck in all you do. I, too, read the Artist's Way and it lit a small fire under me (I'm out of kindling lately, tho).
See ya - Danna (Screenfeem)
Subj: Re:I like this folder 95-05-22 09:00:41 EDT
From: GerrCO
Posted on: America Online
I had to begin this day by adding my applause and welcome.
This is a place that nurtures.
I have been whining in recent weeks about juggling work and writing, BUT I am continuing to work on my novel almost every morning. My body has adjusted to getting up at 4:30 (or 5:30, as I did this morning), even though by cat (the yowling muse) has decided to ease up a bit on his early morning mission.
What a wonderful thing, to write. This weekend, thinking about a garden scene I wanted to include, I spent an hour with an incredibly beautiful book on gardens and found a garden that would slip right into my novel. A climbing rose with purple clematis growing through.
Have a great week, all of you. Write like crazy.
Gerri
Subj: Just a few thoughts 95-05-22 13:25:43 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
First of all, I applaud everyone's recent successes.
1. Many fiction writers are ideally suited to promotional writing. I've done PR writing, and it's a nice way to pad the bank account while you're waiting for contracts. If you'd like more info. on how to get started, email me.
2. I publish a monthly newsletter called "Today's Catholic Women", and I am looking to expand it. If you're lurking in here, are Catholic and would like to contribute, email me for guidelines, etc. I'll send off a copy of the newsletter for you to review & let you know what I'm looking for.
+ + + + +
Ya'll be thinking about me as we head to Ohio at the end of this week, okay? I have a boatload of work, plus the kids - - plus the move. And a bevy of deadlines falling at the end of June.
Peace,
Leese
Subj: Re:Just a few thoughts 95-05-22 14:00:49 EDT
From: DARK PRINT
Posted on: America Online
I'm eagerly waiting here in Ohio, ready to welcome you, Leese! Ohio has a growing group of talented writers, and I'm glad we're gaining another one. I'm also glad you're not coming from a real sunny place, because the winters here can be a real shock!
It's amazing how a description can light up your day. A few messages ago, a new WWW member described gardens, talking about red and purple flowers. That sounds beautiful, and I'd love to put some of those in front of my house right now.
I just finished giving a three day seminar on business writing for a savings and loan, and that writing is drier than bones. Hearing such a lovely, colorful image brightened my day!
Hope everyone is being revitalized and re-energized by the spring, as I am - Kelly
Subj: Re:Hey Scubba, Plot, and Lela 95-05-22 18:42:27 EDT
From: LuluJay
Posted on: America Online
Hey Danna--
Don't worry about the Simpson thing. Everyone has moments of weakness. However, if you post you've dated Kato Kaelin, then I can't be responsible for my actions.
I, too, am doing the Artists Way, and it is incredible. I'm in week three. I'm getting reading to do some research on the screenplay I'm working on. It's about Hudson River School painters. How non-Hollywood can you get?!
See ya!
Lori
Subj: Re:A new Folder? 95-05-22 22:21:19 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
What would you think about setting up a folder so we could "post" some of our recent work? I'd love to be able to read some of the writing we all talk about. We could call it *Clippings* maybe. We could post short scenes if it's a screenplay or experpts from a chapter if it's a novel, or what have you, just as if we were sending a message. That way we wouldn't have to download or zip anything. I've had bad luck downloading files. When I get them, they are all scrambled and can't be read. Plus I've wasted all those precious AOL minutes in the process. Would we be in copyright touble? Whadda think gang? Fransel
Subj: Hi LuluJay 95-05-22 23:00:04 EDT
From: Screenfeem
Posted on: America Online
Loved your post! I am happy to inform you that I have not dated Kato Kaelin, but I did (ughhhh) also do a drive-by of the Mezzaluna Restaurant (again I cringe). I find I can only handle Hollywood with several large grains of salt and a big sense of humor. My two brothers have been living there and struggling in the music and film biz for fifteen years. When I go up to see them, we all take note of all the waiters who are soap-opera wannabes, the plastic surgery victims galore, and the latest - all the men at Starbucks are sporting goaties (they've replaced ponytails). I live near San Diego - thankfully.
I truly believe Hollywood is looking for non-Hollywood scripts. Keep working on your painter script - it sounds unusual. I'm finally mustering up the courage to start a new one (my third - although I don't really count the first one - it's soooo... well, I've grown since then). I really have to divorce myself from the Hollywood hype to get back to any kind of quality writing. Keep in touch!
Screenfeem
Subj: Dove Bars 95-05-23 13:12:58 EDT
From: SKFMiles
Posted on: America Online
I LOVE dove bars....cost a lot, though.
--Sara
Subj: Re:A new Folder? My 2 cents 95-05-23 13:37:57 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Wow; do you really want your unpublished work to be that *public*? Anyone can come on this board and not everyone is as supportive as most of us are. Am I the only one who already has issues with my work going out to people I don't know, have never talked with, who rarely if ever appear to comment, whose background, credentials, style, etc. are unknown? In the best of all possible worlds, we would all be extremely supportive, not mess with each other's work, and create a wonderful, nation-wide support system of women writers. But this is not the best of all possible worlds. I love this board and generally resonate with much that's said and I contribute to it as well. But I find it hard to send my work to as many people as are on the list for the WWW workshop, much less post it for all. I can appreciate your eagerness and wanting to see others' work, Fransel; I feel that too. But posting work in public multiplies the risk that already exists: of plagiarism, of unwanted critique/comments/intrusion, etc., of the few people with the my-way-is-the-only-way-to-write attitude having access directly to our work.
When I read my work in an open-to-all writer's group with many people I don't know, I never give out copies of my work-- because, despite the theoretical protection of marking our little c 1995 on our work, we really have no protection in this kind of situation. As someone on another board commented, legal suits are expensive so you better have some idea of who your work is going to. Maybe I'm paranoid too because I once had a terrible experience with giving my novel to a woman I didn't know who misrepresented herself hugely in terms of what she intended to do with it after she read it (she told me she would connect me with a *patroness* if she liked it which was not true at all) and then, after she trashed the whole thing, it turned out she had been an editor at a big-name publishing co. who had been fired for poor work and she was trying to get her hands on new writers who would pay her to edit so she could restore her self-esteem. I was naive and poor and flattered that anyone wanted to see my work so I gave it to her. Afterwards I spoke to two friends, both of whom had been editors at Doubleday and Random House, and they went crazy-- pointed out that my work was totally unprotected, she could have made copies, etc. How much more vulnerable are we if we post our work here! As women, we've made a wonderful forum here for our ideas and sharing but the more private workshop and email exist so that we can also be somewhat selective in putting our work out to others.(and for those having trouble downloading, there are people here to help.) Maybe this is just me but there are a few people I;'ve run across on other boards that I would not want to share my work with; displaying it on the WWW board opens it to all, like literally putting it on a very public bulletin board. Only my opinion and preferences but my feeling is to choose with whom I want to share. I have wonderful feelings about this board and all of you and there is much I feel fine about putting out in public-- but not my writing (except for Milano Man playing). My opinion only; maybe I'm just an introvert or extra cautious..............
Kathie (who is getting back to writing the book from hell tomorrow!)
Subj: Re:Hi Screenfem 95-05-23 13:40:20 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Hi, I live near San Diego also ( East County)...Although looking out the window today you'd think it was London! I don't think I've seen rain in May in San Diego since I moved here 10 years ago!
Carolyn (CZLAW)
Subj: Re:Hi CZLAW 95-05-23 14:39:21 EDT
From: Screenfeem
Posted on: America Online
Hi there, Carolyn! It's raining here in Carlsbad, too. And I wash going to call in a window-washing company today! Forget it - I'll wait till next week. Hasn't it been a wet year?
Screenfeem (Danna)
Subj: Re:A new Folder? My 2 cents 95-05-23 18:05:34 EDT
From: Jcmaher
Posted on: America Online
I agree with the cautious approach to putting one's work on AOL. For one thing, the legalities are still being established about electronic media (hooray for the National Writers' Union which is leading the charge to protect writers' rights). I would hate to see someone put even a page of work online, only to find themselves not legally owning their own work somewhere down the line. Anyone out there up to date (i.e. the minute) on this kind of law?
Jan
Subj: Re:Hi Screenfeem 95-05-23 19:15:14 EDT
From: LuluJay
Posted on: America Online
Danna--
California and NY maybe on different coasts, but plastic-surgery casualties, goateed coffee-swilling dudes who look like they haven't seen a box of Tide in decades and extremely tan women (yes, in May!) abound in my neighborhood! We also have our share of actor/waiters, who for the most part are pretty cool--and they always deliver my food in a timely manner with gorgeous smiles and sonorous voices.
Who was the agent you axed? It would be wild if it was the same woman! My painter script is my fourth, and if it's any consulation, script number three came the easiest. I don't know why, but it caused me the least amount of churning stomach acid.
Keep writing and keep posting. Also, don't forget your sunscreen.
Doing laundry regularly,
Lori
Subj: this is it! 95-05-24 01:42:18 EDT
From: Sgrief
Posted on: America Online
Well folks ... this is it! I'll "see" you again in Columbus!
Peace and productivity <g>,
Leese
()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()() <- a milano party ;-)
Subj: Re:I've Missed Everyone! 95-05-24 08:20:33 EDT
From: LisaMuse
Posted on: America Online
Hello Ladies! Congratulations to Newscat, Rachel, and any others that have successes to relish! I've been away from here for about a week, trying to tie up loose ends at the job I'm quitting and jump-start my freelance career. I just logged a week's worth of messages and a few things jumped out at me.
Please, please, please be careful about posting your work on AOL, or even emailing it to someone! I emailed a short story to a "friend" that I had correspondended with through AOL for about 2 months, and she used a major part of my story in one of hers! She emailed her story to me, and she told me about it, but I have no idea whether she's really going to delete it from her story, as she promised, or if she's submitting it. So do be careful!
Leese, good luck in your move!
Lisa :)
Subj: Re:New "Clip" folder 95-05-24 11:34:39 EDT
From: Fransel
Posted on: America Online
When I mention posting parts etc. I was referring to published work. Would that come under the same copyight infringment problems? But, your are right it probably was a niave suggestion. In reality, I know better, but I thought already published stuff would be okay. Keep on writing. Fran
Subj: Re:New "Clip" folder 95-05-24 12:45:14 EDT
From: Jcmaher
Posted on: America Online
I'd still be cautious about posting published work, without clear advice from a knowledgable attorney that assures that there might not be some right AOL would have to assert ownership of anything posted here or something like that....Also, most publishing contracts have very vague language in them granting publishers (of books, anyway) rights to forms not yet specified or invented. Bad clause. Bad clause. Check with NWU for better language if someone tries to get you to sign something like this. Because some writers who did sign something like this are finding their work showing up in electronic media and getting nothing for it.
Subj: Re:New "Clip" folder 95-05-24 17:22:40 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
It's sad that we have to be careful, but I still think it is necessary. Which brings up another point...perhaps we should all delete those WWW critique pieces from
our computer files (if we haven't already done so) and be more careful about screening who we put on our mailing list. Gosh but that's depressing!
Carolyn
Subj: need your thoughts 95-05-25 09:50:13 EDT
From: GenSW
Posted on: America Online
Hi, everybody. I haven't posted on this board much lately, but I posted a few messages during the winter under a different screen name, CalicoGen. And even though I don't post much, I do try to keep up with reading these messages, finding warmth and encouragement, delighting in the success stories, identifying with the tales of struggling and juggling. This is a special place. For the past 10 days or so, I've been worried and upset about one of our two cats. Sally, our 13-year-old calico, has a liver problem and things don't look good. To me and my husband, our cats are part of our family, and this is very difficult for us. Since Sally got sick, I haven't been able to work on my writing (I'm currently working on a mystery novel). It feels like my inner energy is consumed with trying to will her to get better. I don't feel guilty for taking this time off from writing, but I wonder about it. Have any of you, during a personal crisis, lost the urge to write? Did it come back later? I was just wondering if I'm crazy, or if this is an understandable reaction. And this place seemed like a safe place to talk about it. If anyone has any advice or stories they'd like to share, I'd appreciate hearing them, either here or through e-mail. I'd also appreciate any good thoughts, prayers, or positive vibes you could send Sally's way. Thanks so much for listening.
Genna
Subj: Re:need your thoughts 95-05-25 14:36:48 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Dear Genna,
So many of us on this board are animal lovers; you have all of our wishes and prayers for your kitty. As for the urge to write, of course it will come back; just needs time off while you tend to your feline family.
Hoping Sally is soon back on her paws--
Kathie (and Camelia who has taken to nesting under my chair as I write but bites me if I move my feet)
Subj: Empty Wombs!? Please read 95-05-25 14:45:14 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
I think I'm not the only one concerned about the seeming demise-in-the-making of the WWW chats and workshop. Several of us have had the experience lately of going to the chatrooms and finding no one there during scheduled times. And workshop participation too seems to be drastically ebbing. I for one would hate to see these meetings die; they have been wonderful for me, sources of friendship, of support, and inspiration. My whole sense of being a writer and of connection to my writing have been strengthened dramatically by my connections with all of you so I hope we can breathe new life into our writing *wombs*-- :). Most of us can't make every chat or workshop; we all have busy lives and it's expensive but it's still less than an hour's long distance call and how else can we talk to so many folks who share our interests simultaneously? Anyway, I hope some of you share my concern and that we don't let these wonderful resources die out........
Kathie (who has just scratched one more chapter from her book from hell-- it keeps getting shorter; hee hee)
Subj: WWWoW!!!! 95-05-25 14:57:42 EDT
From: Candidlee
Posted on: America Online
Just spent nearly an hour (!!!) logging all the entries here.Now I'm off to the store, gotta get those Milano's (What are they, why are they so good?) I'll soon know.
As spring still stubbornly refuses to visit Detroit I will spend the rest of the day reading this folder and eating those Milano's.
When I am done, I'll be back, ready to join in your sorority......
Candace (future Milano/WWW addict)
Subj: Re: Need Your Thoughts - Cats 95-05-25 15:32:00 EDT
From: Writer2544
Posted on: America Online
Holistic Health Remedies For Cats - Where to find and Read About plus contacts to reach Holistic Vets
Genna: Yes I can relate to your current experience - some months ago one of our Maltese "Hway" became seriously ill and required surgery... then she brought home a bug from the vets and all 4 of our "babies" became ill - they all were sick for a few months.
During that time - especially the week when we weren't certain if Hway would make it I was so drained I couldn't write without tremendous effort - and then whatever I wrote was so morose ... if it made sense at all ... I couldn't help but feel horrible. After she and the others recovered I felt a surge of renewal - and my writing was enlivened by the experience.
What helped the most was my post on the WWW board - everyone was so very kind and uplifting ... so yes you've come to a safe place to talk about your "baby" Sally. I'll think of her in my prayers and meditations. Meanwhile perhaps the following could be of help to you. We don't have cats but my homepathic file has some information about them....
Holistic Remedies and homepathy: 1] Hank Kostecki, DVM ph: 916-541-3551 - phone consultation. I haven't tried Dr. Kostecki as we have a local H. Vet doctor but in case you don't - he advertises in Dog World Magazine (Ap95 issue pg 149) - most vets treat cats also. 2] Tiger Tribe - holistic health for cats - magazine call 800-862-6759 (or 319-351-6698) - maybe they have an issue with an article about treating Sally's liver problem. 3] Marina Zacharias ph: 604-856-2050 or fax: 604-856-4099 in Washington state sells remedies and books, 4] Washington Homeopathic in MD products ph: 800-336-1695 sells remedies, 5] Doslisos in NV, ph: 800-824-8455 sells remedies, 6] Standard Homeop
8/27/56 2:45:30 PM Opening ÒSystem Log 8/27/56#11Ó for recording.
athic Co in Los Angelos, CA ph: 800-624-9659 sells remedies,
7] Boiran/Borneman ph: 800-258-8823 sells remedies. 8] American Holistic Verterinary Medical Association, 2214 Old Emerton R, Bel Air, MD 21015 send s.a.s.e. for info and name of H. Vet in your area. Mariana Z. may also have a list of vets. 9] Books - "Cats: Homeopathic Remedies" by George McLeod, D.V.S.M. Sold by the Homeopathic Educational Services, ph: 800-359-9051, 2124 Kitteredge St, Berkley, CA 946704. Book - "Your Healthy Cat" by H.G. Wolff, North Atlantic Books, 2800 Woolsey St, Berkeley, CA 94705. Book - "Cats Naturally" and "The Complete Herbal Handbook for the Dog and Cat" by Juliette de Bairacli Levy. Another resource for books is HIR - Homeopathic Info. Resources, Ltd, ph: 800-289-4447 in Clay, NY.
A reliable line of remedies is made by BHI - from Germany which Mariana sells. The remedies list I have from Marina is for dogs but most can also be used with a change in dosage for cats. She is very knowledgable and perhaps can help.
Thought I'd post this since there are many WWW ladies with cats - that may be interested in this as well. .... Pam :-)
Subj: Re: Empty Wombs? No way ... 95-05-25 15:35:48 EDT
From: Writer2544
Posted on: America Online
Kathie - the weather is getting better - and who can resist the outdoors - flowers perfume the air, birds chirping -the beach calls ... empty wombs? Nope - we're not empty we just need to add another 24 hours to each day.... :-D .... don't worry the cold will drive everyone back to the monitor soon enough.... Pam :-)
Subj: Re: Empty Wombs? No way ... 95-05-25 16:35:45 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Pam-- I didn't think WE were *empty*, just the *rooms* online (ok so it was a bad joke!). If I offer you all iced tea with lemon, then will you come back? Weds chat and Thurs workshop at 10 ET-- too late for flowers and sun (but then again there's moonlight..... and some of you are still in daylight then; ah well, I can hope)
Welcome, Candace! Detroit!!!!! (I used to live in East Lansing, raised my kids there through gradeschool) If you want info on chats and our workshop, email EMFitz. I forgot we were Milanoless in the Midwest; it's a kind of cookie, Candace, put out by Pepperidge Farms (here in the East? CT even?). Virtual Milanos available at any chat. :)
Kathie (and Camelia who apparently likes Winters because she is sitting in a bag today)
Subj: Re:Empty Wombs!? Please read 95-05-25 17:15:38 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Kathie, I agree with all you said. How can we fill up the womb again? Carolyn
Subj: Re:Empty Wombs!? Please read 95-05-25 20:00:03 EDT
From: LuluJay
Posted on: America Online
Kathie--
I echo your sentiments. Although I am a new WWW, I really wanted to join the chat last night, but I was fully into REM sleep by 9:30. Is the reason the chats are scheduled for 10 because of our West Coast pals? If so, I know any earlier for them would be hard. Ten is a hard time for me to be conscious, but I want to find a solution!!
Lori
Subj: Re:Empty Wombs! 95-05-25 20:36:22 EDT
From: Writer2544
Posted on: America Online
I'm the same - REM'd out - it's too late for me as well - any suggestions?
Kathie - I was teasing you...... Pam ;-)
Subj: Re:Empty Wombs!? Please read 95-05-25 20:47:10 EDT
From: Limn
Posted on: America Online
Dear Friends,
I add ditto to the concern about the 'chats'. I've been among the missing-in-action too often and have grieved at each session missed. On occasion it has been too late at the end of an arduous day and I know that my eyes won't last more than 15 minutes longer than sign-on. I'm so concerned about appearing to care less than I really do, if I drop in just long enough to say Hi --especially if one of our gang expresses the need for comradeship--so, I ponder for a longing minute, then decide to pass. I stand corrected. Better to show up, even for a short time than deprive oneself and the group of the warmth of connection. I'll work at adjusting. Can we all?? Limn
Subj: Re:Milanos 95-05-25 22:11:24 EDT
From: Screenfeem
Posted on: America Online
I'm mad at all of you - I just went to the supermarket and saw Milano cookies. I've never even been the slightest bit interested in Milano cookies, but I bought some and ate almost the whole package. Talk about subliminal!
Screenfeem (chubby)
Subj: Re:Empty Wombs!? Please read 95-05-25 23:28:24 EDT
From: Strywever
Posted on: America Online
Kathie, I've been been missing the chats and Thursday critiques so much! Please let's keep them going. Life has conspired to keep me away these last few weeks, and I've felt so unconnected and uninspired as a result. I promise to be there next Sunday. I *need* you all!
Subj: On Refilling the Wombs! 95-05-26 00:50:05 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Solution for all you who are nodding at 10 pm-- the Sunday chat is at 7 pm ET! I sometimes get to that one-- y'all come! Tonight's workshop had just three of us for most of the time; sigh.
Screenfeem-- I did the same thing! Desperately seeking Milanomuse! :)
Wish me luck, all; tomorrow I get to tell my editor that I have to scratch the last chapter of my book because it won't work. Which means restructuring the book itself. will this book NEVER end? o to be done with it all and halfway into the next one (which is singing soft siren songs in my ear......... or is that the yowling feline who thinks she's my keeper?)
Write on! (an old 60's saying :) )
Kathie (and Camelia who's asleep in her bag)
Subj: Re:On Refilling the Wombs! 95-05-26 09:32:50 EDT
From: LisaMuse
Posted on: America Online
I, Lisa, fledgling writer and harried homemaker, do solemnly promise to try my darndest to make the chat sessions and critique sessions. (7 PM Sundays is a bit early for me, considering I have kids to bathe and feed, but, I will try!) C'mon ladies, let's not let this very special forum die a slow death!
Lisa (who's sniffing and sneezing her way through Spring!)
:)
Subj: Re:need your thoughts 95-05-26 10:41:34 EDT
From: Bellesprit
Posted on: America Online
Genna, I am definitely sending good thoughts (along with my complete understanding of what animal family members mean to us). I am one of those people who tends to lose the urge to write when going through personal crisis times. Later, when the crisis itself has passed and has been woven into the tapestry of my life experience, I see that my writing is richer for it. Of course, sometimes there's a personal crisis and an assignment at the same time. On those occasions I've just had to spend some time each day pulling my powers of focus together to work. Although I tend to work more slowly when this is happening, the focus it requires helps give me a break from personal aches.
This is a good topic, Genna, I hope we hear from a few people about how they meet this particular challenge.
I write nonfiction, usually on topics with which I can be objective. Or, I write about things that I've taught; then, my love of teaching and care for the people I'm addressing kicks in; and that helps see me through. Sometimes I wonder if I would have even more trouble writing during crises times if I were a fiction or poetry writer.
As for your dear cat - I know, I had a wonderful feline companion named Pooh Bah (from the "Mikado"). He lived to be 18 years old. Although he died about 10 years ago, I still have dreams about him from time to time. Fortunately, my dog never gets jealous. ;-)
Hoping Sally makes a quick and full recovery.
Belle
Subj: Re:Empty Wombs!? Please read 95-05-26 11:00:23 EDT
From: Bellesprit
Posted on: America Online
I'm with Limn - often finding myself able to join the chats for a short time and feeling that would be a little rude. But, I am now resolved to drop in for short or for long visits. As Kathie said, "My whole sense of being a writer and of connection to my writing have been strengthened dramatically by my connections with all of you." Here, on the West Coast, I'm often just beginning to feed my dog and get my own dinner together at 10Eastern/7Pacific. Sometimes I bring my dinner to my desk so I can join in on the chats. I would never want our chats to be separated into an East Coast chat and a West Coast chat (and what how would the people who are not on a Coast make a choice?) because *all* of you, wherever you live, are valuable to me. I even tried to make the Sunday chat last week (4 p.m. out here by the Pacific Ocean) but just couldn't pull myself away from the park in time. Anyway, I join in the renewed effort to be there! Thanks, Kathie, for bringing this up. I'll see all you fellow jugglers/wombsters soon.
Belle
Subj: Re:Empty Wombs!? Please read 95-05-26 13:44:21 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
OK, I'm going to be there on Sunday . I expect to see you all and share a bag of virtual Milano's. (By the way, I had to fight a passionate desire to grab a bag or two off the shelf at the store yesterday. I resisted but spent the rest of the day longing for those tasty morsals...)
Take care, see you on Sunday!
Carolyn
Subj: A Little Princess 95-05-26 23:29:24 EDT
From: Screenfeem
Posted on: America Online
Just as I was about to lose all faith in American films, I treated myself to "A Little Princess" yesterday. If you have little girls (or, if you can coerce your little boys), take them to this wonderful film. It was so great to see such positive role models for little girls and such an absolutely beautiful film. I think I'll start writing screenplays again.
Danna (now hooked on Milanos - anyone know a twelve-step program?)
Subj: Re:A Little Princess 95-05-27 09:15:28 EDT
From: LelaJune
Posted on: America Online
Another wondrous film for little and big girls (as well as boys) is the remake of "The Secret Garden" with Maggie Smith. I found it to have a special magic; captivating film!
Subj: Re: filling up the womb 95-05-27 13:47:42 EDT
From: SCUBBAHEY
Posted on: America Online
Hi -- Mea Culpa. I've been too long absent from the chats-- I will try hard to be there sunday. I miss your "live" voices, and it's up to me to do something about it!
I agree about the "Little Princess", great film, as was "Little Women". I'm so lucky I have an eight year old stepdaughter, otherwise I would've missed these wonderful affirming movies. Best, Stace.
Subj: Re: filling up the womb 95-05-27 15:12:17 EDT
From: Jcmaher
Posted on: America Online
As long as we're listing films, there's Widow's Peak.
Subj: writing during crisis 95-05-27 23:28:58 EDT
From: DCHAM
Posted on: America Online
genna--i'm sorry for what you're going through. the first time i encountered 'writer's block' was after my dog died. the second time was after my marriage died. that time lasted six months. all i could write was bad poetry! i was on a book deadline, and finally had to call my editor and agent and tell them i needed extra time. they were great about it, but it was scary since i was more dependent than ever on my income. until that experience, i really didn't believe that a good, disciplined writer could not write through any crisis. it was a humbling experience, and what i learned is that i have to give myself permission not to write during those times, and not to feel guilty about it (that's the REALLY hard part). I hope things settle down for you soon.
diane
Subj: hello Sisters 95-05-28 01:38:35 EDT
From: CPassmore
Posted on: America Online
Just found this board
Just bored and found
Looking to connect
Connecting to look
Jumping in :)
Obviously not a poet
CPassmore
Subj: Greetings 95-05-28 13:06:48 EDT
From: AnnGardner
Posted on: America Online
Hello. I am new to AOL and am happy to have just found this board. You all remind me of the supportive energy on Women's Wire, my beloved "home" server. Yet wwire has lost their host for their "Writer's Block;" not much is going on there...so do I neen to do anything toI join-up with WWW?
Subj: Intro 95-05-28 13:43:21 EDT
From: AnnGardner
Posted on: America Online
Whoops. I mistakenly sent the above question before I could correct the typos. The message system here is different than at wwire. Anyway, is there anything I need to be informed about re joining WWW? Like your chat times, etc? (My main email is Ann_Gardner@wwire.net,Internet.) I am a social anthropologist about to rewrite my dissertation WOMEN AND CHANGING RELATIONS IN A SOUTH SINAI BEDOUIN TRIBE into a trade book and would like advice on finding a good agent and/or publisher. And I would just like to connect with other writers.
Subj: Hi Ann-- couldn't email you so.. 95-05-28 16:45:51 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
I'm posting my message here in hopes you see it. Tried to email but mail came back immediately; check your address again. Maybe too long? Here is what I tried to send:
Hi Ann! Welcome! I'm a Jungian therapist working on my second book (an
interpretation of an ancient Greek myth); I also write fiction when I can get
to it. Saw your post today so thought I'd let you know about our chats (this
is a great group, very supportive, sometimes zany, not always cohesive but
responsive to everything from moaning about juggling writing and jobs, kids,
moving, etc., all the things we women so often deal with), as well as questions about writing itself.
Our chats are at 7 pm ET Sundays and 10 pm ET Weds.
To get to them, pull down the Go To (above)
click on lobby
when lobby appears, click on rooms
for private room
Type in Jugglers and click-- and you've found us
We also have a workshop on Thurs nights at 10 pm ET
For info and the password for that, email EMFitz
Hope to see you. If you have questions you can email me at Doso81844@aol.com
Kathie
Subj: Re:Intro 95-05-28 16:47:38 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Hello, Ann. You're welcome to come to our chats ---
Weds. at 10 p.m. EST, Sundays at 7 p.m. EST --- we also have a weekly critique group. E-mail EM Fitz to
get on the mailing list.
The weather here in So. Cal. has finally turned sunny after the wettest, dreariest May I can recall in my ten years here. Out in my garden, a pair of Anna's hummingbirds have returned for the second year in
a row to build their tiny little nest in my crepe myrtle tree. It's just at eye level --- peeking in to
its fluffy greyness you can see two little white jelly bean eggs. In a few weeks, the eggs will hatch into
small balls of black fuzz---and a new generation of
hummingbirds! We also have a nest of four baby mockingbirds in the shrubs---they peep and scream
when their hassled mother appears with another
beakfull of worms....Sometimes she just looks so
frantic--- or am I reading my own feelings of
motherhood frenzy into her hopping retreat from the
nest?
Anyhow, have a good week, enjoy spring, and keep
writing.
Carolyn
Subj: Questions? 95-05-28 18:25:33 EDT
From: LeonFlet
Posted on: America Online
Ask away of me--about non-fiction writing or publishing.
I'm fulltime pro----12 books, 500+ articles published.
Nothing 4 sale: no courses, workbooks, etc. Just enjoy helping writers, and curious about their questions.
Subj: Hello Back/Email OK 95-05-28 18:35:16 EDT
From: AnnGardner
Posted on: America Online
Thanks for the warm welcome Kathie and Carolyn! My email Ann_Gardner@wwire.net, Internet is correct and should have worked, but I got the info to make today's chat, so all is well. Looking forward to meeting everyone.
Subj: Missed Again! 95-05-28 22:06:59 EDT
From: Limn
Posted on: America Online
I can't believe it. Just as I committed myself to the less-tired hour today (sunday), I got an unexpected house full of week-end 'watcha doin s'--it's a holiday! By the time I finished feeding and watering the group, I had missed our 'chat'. I may have some trouble getting to the room this week--tho I'll try. I'm off to Chicago, early Friday am for the American Bookseller's annual 'do'. I'll try to make it up with lots of insights when I return on the 11th. Anyone else planning to be there? Let me know. 'Later, with more to say--ON TIME!
Best regards, Muriel
Subj: RE: LeonFlet? 95-05-28 22:18:42 EDT
From: Limn
Posted on: America Online
Does anyone know why this person has posted the same message on EVERY writer's group board, & with the same message? I'm concerned that maybe he's suffering from writer's block and needs some support from Carolyn & others. He should be devoting more attention to his next (13th?) book--or has the number got him spooked? I don't want to sound ungrateful, but I guess I feel a 'commercial' coming on. Probably just a bit cynical? Forgive me, I'm still frustrated by my having missed you all. I need a Milano or two.
Muriel
Subj: We Missed You Too! 95-05-28 22:48:55 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
A bag of hazelnut Milanos to you, Muriel! We missed you too; had a lively chat tonight with several new people (and guilt-tripping the old does wonders! thus sayeth the shrink). The rest of you: come back! It was great tonight-- fingers were flying, the old crazyquilt multiple conversations at once, just like in the old days (can't believe a year ago I didn't even know how to use a computer).
Kathie (who is trying to convince Camelia she should get a job-- beyond her current position as cat hair-dispenser extraordinaire)
Subj: Lurking 95-05-29 00:29:24 EDT
From: Plotpnt
Posted on: America Online
Hi Everyone,
It's been a week or so since I've lurked here. I really missed the caring and support. Some people on the other boards are so arguementative that it's just depressing. For example, someone probably would have jumped all over me for misspelling "argumentative". (Or did I have it right the first time? Wish AOL had a spell check.)
I do have some good news. My screenplay is one of three finalists in the Women In Film Screenwriting Competition. I am really excited. The winner will be announced on June 1, but I feel like I'm already a winner. Just being a finalist is great! Of course, this is the first year for the screenwriting competition, so they probably didn't get a lot of submissions. But, what the heck. It still feels real good.
Elaine from Fountain Valley
Subj: Biscotti 95-05-29 00:32:37 EDT
From: Plotpnt
Posted on: America Online
I hate to cloud the water, but has anyone tried Trader Joe's Biscotti? I actually like those better that Milanos. Especially dipped in some really good coffee while I read my horoscope in the morning paper. (Could this be why I gained 25 pounds in the last 2 years? Nah, couldn't be.)
The Milano Man is probably cuter than Biscotti Boy, but looks aren't everything. Try it.
Elaine from Fountain Valley
Subj: Re:Lurking 95-05-29 12:12:41 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Elaine!! That is so exciting-- kudos and Milanos!
Kathie
Subj: Re:Greetings 95-05-29 13:49:13 EDT
From: C QUIXOTE
Posted on: America Online
New on Line in December, finally finding my way into what lives in the heart of me. . .writing. Would love to join WWW. Have printed out some informative messages and will try to attend "chats".
Hunorist here. Love Bombeck. It's another generation's turn. Just a bit younger than her, with lots to say about this crazed world and life. A syndicated column is my objective.
Hope to hear from somebody.
Carolyn Carpenter
C Quixote
Subj: RE;Lurking 95-05-29 13:52:31 EDT
From: JEErwin
Posted on: America Online
What great news, Elaine! Congratulations on being a finalist in the screenplay competition. Kudos and bags and bags of biscotti to you. BTW, you have a lovely name - the same as our youngest daughter
jane
Subj: Re:Elaine's Screenplay 95-05-29 14:45:00 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations Elaine! It must be great to get that kind of recognition! Hurray!
Carolyn
Subj: Re:Biscotti 95-05-29 14:47:05 EDT
From: CZLAW
Posted on: America Online
I, too, have discovered the joys of Biscotti for breakfast with coffee (and then again for lunch with coffee and then again for dinner with cappucino...
aren't they dietitic?)
Take care all. Keep plugging away.
Carolyn
Subj: Re:Greetings 95-05-29 16:36:01 EDT
From: Doso81844
Posted on: America Online
Welcome, Carolyn! HOpe to see you in our chats and workshop (I seem to be a greeter these days!). WE get pretty humorous (have you read our Milano Man series)--but could use a professional!! I love Erma too forever. Grab some biscottis and join us!
Kathie
Subj: Re:Lurking 95-05-29 18:35:29 EDT
From: Wiley 5
Posted on: America Online
Congratulations, Elaine! If this was the 1st, they were probably swamped with entries! : ) Be proud! It's a big honor & you won it because your work was worth it and for no other reason! Our magical board strikes again... : )
Peggy
Subj: Re:Congrats 95-05-30 00:38:28 EDT
From: SNewmark
Posted on: America Online
Elaine, so happy for you!
When you're famous, (or even now), my daughter will definitely want to meet you & pick your brain, as she hopes to become a screenwriter....what is your script about?
Leaving for my famous trip Thurs AM....see ya in 2 weeks!
Sandi
P.S. meeting lots of WWWers, I hope
Subj: Chats & Congrats 95-05-30 11:12:13 EDT
From: Bellesprit
Posted on: America Online
In spite of the early hour on the West Coast, I really tried to join the Sunday chat last weekend. Even made an early departure from a social gathering to try to get back in time to log on. Sadly - what with holiday traffic - I arrived back too late. Ran in the door, quickly greeted the dog, turned on the computer, got into Jugglers just as the 2 last people (Ann & Kathie) were saying goodbye to each other. Sigh. Well, I did try. I suspect that I'll have better luck getting there on time Wednesday. See you there.
ElaineoftheFountains, hearty and happy congratulations to you. I hope you're taking time to bask in the glory your good work has brought.
Oh, and, Sandi - have a great trip, full of fun and good adventure.
Belle
Subj: Re:Chats & Congrats 95-05-30 12:40:40 EDT
From: Plotpnt
Posted on: America Online
Thank you all for your good wishes. Posting good news here is almost as good as telling my mother.
Sandi - my script is about conflict that develops between a mother and her baby boomer daughter. Nobody gets killed. No bombs explode. There are no angry, yet indestructible cops in it. In other words, not real commercial. But it's from my heart. I'll be happy to talk with your daughter. Have a good trip.
Elaine from Fountain Valley
8/27/56 2:48:33 PM Closing Log file.
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