I have to say, one of my biggest all-time gripes is people who are rude. Whether it's a speed demon cutting me off in traffic, a store clerk ignoring my request for help, or a teenager's roll of the eyes, it's all rude and impolite, and absolutely unnecessary.
I've never understood how it is that people can treat others so cavalierly, being dismissive or downright insulting, with no consideration for the other person's feelings. Do they get some kind of adrenaline boost out of it? Are they asocial personalities, with no feeling for others at all? Or are they just so narcissistic that they only care about themselves?
The world would be a much better place if people treated each other politely. Can you imagine a war starting if people said, "Oh, you're a Protestant? How interesting! Tell me about your beliefs," or "You need more land? We have a plot over here that's just sitting idle. Do move in!"
That may be a little simplistic, but honestly, if people always treated each other with respect, so many little disagreements would never have the chance to escalate into anything serious.
I've spent my life trying my best to be polite to everyone, regardless of how they treated me. "Take the high road," I told myself. "At least then you have nothing to feel guilty about, no matter how things turn out." And that's true, as far as it went.
Yet, when I'm treated rudely or unfairly, it causes stress and emotional fallout. And I find more and more often I'm asking myself, why should I suffer on the account of someone who clearly has no respect for me?
So I'm venturing one toe into the water of "well-deserved rudeness." I would never treat anyone disrespectfully just because I feel like it. But in the case where someone treats ME poorly first, for no good reason...then, I'm starting to think, all bets are off.
It's difficult to be rude, purposely, after a lifetime of polite. But in some cases, it seems warranted and more, it seems to be the only thing certain people understand.
But that's how wars start. Isn't it? Oy.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Friday, February 19, 2010
Friday Happies 2/19/10
I've missed a week with the Gripes and the Happies, due to being out of town with my DH on a Valentine's trip to the White Mountains. Definitely all happy, nothing to gripe about there!
So I'm trying to get back on track.
Happy, happy, happy. Let's see. I'm happy it's Friday! But I guess there's a lot of that going around. What else?
It's a little warmer today, and the snow is melting. After the most recent ten-inch storm, I've decided that it should be against the law for me to have to sing "Let It Snow!" ONE MORE TIME this winter. I love snow; it's pretty and Christmassy and the snowflakes are a marvel of nature's engineering. But enough is enough, already. By the time it hits mid-February, I'm ready for temps in the fifties and crocuses popping up. So today's high of 41 and drip, drip, drip from the roof makes me think spring might actually come. Soon, I hope!
Lately, I'm driving myself crazy trying to figure out what bird I've seen several times on the tree out my front window. I've seen more than one of them, but I suspect they're moving through and not native to this area as I've never seen them before this year.
I love watching birds, and I keep a couple of bird books handy for quick and easy identification when I see a new one. But this time I'm stumped. It LOOKS like an eastern bluebird, perhaps; but the book's description of its eating habits and natural habitat don't sound right. It's a little blue bird about the size of a sparrow, with a red breast and white tummy. Any guesses from bird experts out there?
Birds are such delicate creatures. I don't know how they survive brutal winters without turning into little birdie popsicles. I try to keep food out for them, but I know their lives must be harsh.
I remember once hearing a bang coming from the direction of our sliding glass deck door. I looked out and there was a small finch lying on the deck. I was so afraid he'd killed himself by flying into the glass door.
I picked him up and held him, and I could feel his heart beating. Good sign; he wasn't dead. I pulled out one wing to examine it, then the other, then turned him over to check his feet. They all seemed to be in good shape, as far as I could tell. No blood, no obvious wounds.
So I just held him in my hands, keeping him warm. (It was a chilly autumn day.) I hoped against hope that he'd just stunned himself and would recover, given time.
And sure enough, in a few minutes, he seemed to be coming out of his daze. He realized where he was--in the hands of a giant--and started to flap his wings. I opened my hands and he flew/skittered across the deck floor. After a minute, he hopped up onto the railing and flew away.
That was one of the most special moments of my life--holding one of God's tiniest living creatures in my hands, and playing some small part in helping it recover from a trauma. I've always remembered that with a smile.
So, whatever those blue birds are, it doesn't matter...they bring me joy. And that's what counts, right?
So I'm trying to get back on track.
Happy, happy, happy. Let's see. I'm happy it's Friday! But I guess there's a lot of that going around. What else?
It's a little warmer today, and the snow is melting. After the most recent ten-inch storm, I've decided that it should be against the law for me to have to sing "Let It Snow!" ONE MORE TIME this winter. I love snow; it's pretty and Christmassy and the snowflakes are a marvel of nature's engineering. But enough is enough, already. By the time it hits mid-February, I'm ready for temps in the fifties and crocuses popping up. So today's high of 41 and drip, drip, drip from the roof makes me think spring might actually come. Soon, I hope!
Lately, I'm driving myself crazy trying to figure out what bird I've seen several times on the tree out my front window. I've seen more than one of them, but I suspect they're moving through and not native to this area as I've never seen them before this year.
I love watching birds, and I keep a couple of bird books handy for quick and easy identification when I see a new one. But this time I'm stumped. It LOOKS like an eastern bluebird, perhaps; but the book's description of its eating habits and natural habitat don't sound right. It's a little blue bird about the size of a sparrow, with a red breast and white tummy. Any guesses from bird experts out there?
Birds are such delicate creatures. I don't know how they survive brutal winters without turning into little birdie popsicles. I try to keep food out for them, but I know their lives must be harsh.
I remember once hearing a bang coming from the direction of our sliding glass deck door. I looked out and there was a small finch lying on the deck. I was so afraid he'd killed himself by flying into the glass door.
I picked him up and held him, and I could feel his heart beating. Good sign; he wasn't dead. I pulled out one wing to examine it, then the other, then turned him over to check his feet. They all seemed to be in good shape, as far as I could tell. No blood, no obvious wounds.
So I just held him in my hands, keeping him warm. (It was a chilly autumn day.) I hoped against hope that he'd just stunned himself and would recover, given time.
And sure enough, in a few minutes, he seemed to be coming out of his daze. He realized where he was--in the hands of a giant--and started to flap his wings. I opened my hands and he flew/skittered across the deck floor. After a minute, he hopped up onto the railing and flew away.
That was one of the most special moments of my life--holding one of God's tiniest living creatures in my hands, and playing some small part in helping it recover from a trauma. I've always remembered that with a smile.
So, whatever those blue birds are, it doesn't matter...they bring me joy. And that's what counts, right?
Monday, February 08, 2010
Monday Gripes 2/8/10
I know I'm not the only one with THIS gripe. Many of my favorite shows are on ABC. Come December, they disappeared. "Well," I told myself, "it's just because of the holidays and all the holiday movies and specials. They'll be back come January."
January came...and went. Most of those shows haven't returned. Heck, "Lost" didn't even start the season until February. Oy! And other shows are returning at the end of March...or later.
What's up with that?
It's not like there's a writer's strike this year. So what's their lame excuse? Are other networks doing this as well, or only ABC?
All I can hope is that this means they'll continue showing new episodes well into summer. Hmmpfff.
Another thing that bothers me is that no one writes letters anymore. I'm as guilty of that as the next person, I confess. Since the invention of the personal computer, people have been getting farther and farther away from the pen and paper. I'm not even sure anyone could read my handwriting anymore. (sigh)
Now, I know it's easier to pop open an e-mail program and type a note, or open up that IM box and "chat" away. But those things are ephemeral and once you close the box, it's gone. (Or once your computer crashes.)
I remember writing love notes to my then-boyfriend (now husband) and using scented stationery. I remember shopping for stationery, and there were lots of choices: floral and opulent, cream-colored and official-looking, or dotted with terminal kitten cuteness. I always had two or three boxes on hand and chose based on who I was writing to.
And when I received a letter...oh, that was special. I'd get a cup of tea, sit down in a comfy chair, and open the letter. What news would it contain? Questions for me to answer in my next letter? Jokes? Sad tales?
After reading it, I could save it in my desk drawer, to read and reread whenever the fancy struck me. Something permanent and real, to hold onto, something that symbolized a relationship between two people.
I guess I've talked myself into it...I'll have to go write someone a letter!
January came...and went. Most of those shows haven't returned. Heck, "Lost" didn't even start the season until February. Oy! And other shows are returning at the end of March...or later.
What's up with that?
It's not like there's a writer's strike this year. So what's their lame excuse? Are other networks doing this as well, or only ABC?
All I can hope is that this means they'll continue showing new episodes well into summer. Hmmpfff.
Another thing that bothers me is that no one writes letters anymore. I'm as guilty of that as the next person, I confess. Since the invention of the personal computer, people have been getting farther and farther away from the pen and paper. I'm not even sure anyone could read my handwriting anymore. (sigh)
Now, I know it's easier to pop open an e-mail program and type a note, or open up that IM box and "chat" away. But those things are ephemeral and once you close the box, it's gone. (Or once your computer crashes.)
I remember writing love notes to my then-boyfriend (now husband) and using scented stationery. I remember shopping for stationery, and there were lots of choices: floral and opulent, cream-colored and official-looking, or dotted with terminal kitten cuteness. I always had two or three boxes on hand and chose based on who I was writing to.
And when I received a letter...oh, that was special. I'd get a cup of tea, sit down in a comfy chair, and open the letter. What news would it contain? Questions for me to answer in my next letter? Jokes? Sad tales?
After reading it, I could save it in my desk drawer, to read and reread whenever the fancy struck me. Something permanent and real, to hold onto, something that symbolized a relationship between two people.
I guess I've talked myself into it...I'll have to go write someone a letter!
Friday, February 05, 2010
Friday Happies 2/5/10
My happiest event of the day today was meeting my husband for lunch. Friday is always my "grocery stock-up" day, and it's anything but fun. Plus, it delays when I can get my "real" work done by carving out the highest-energy portion of the day. And Dan, of course, is in the middle of yet another long workday. So we meet for lunch, and it gives us something to look forward to and a chance to debrief a little.
Today we went to Taco Bell. It's one of my favorites, because I'm a vegetarian. It's tough to eat at any fast-food restaurant if you're a vegetarian, in this burger-is-king culture. But at Taco Bell, I can order *anything* on the menu and just ask for beans instead of meat. Simple! And don't think they don't know it...I saw a sign up today reminding people that during Lent, they can get any item made without meat.
My second happy of the week was Groundhog Day. Now, I know that good old Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, so that means six more weeks of winter. And I have to say, are you really surprised? At least in our neck of the woods, spring never comes this early.
But for many years, I've been a fan of the movie "Groundhog Day," with Bill Murray. I especially enjoy the scenes at Gobbler's Knob, when the groundhog is pulled out of his burrow and, with much pomp and circumstance, foretells six more weeks of winter.
So imagine my surprise when this year, I went to the Reuter's website to see what Phil had predicted, and found a video of the event. I viewed the video, and it's almost a carbon copy of the movie. I was so excited! I've watched it three or four times and now, I really have to watch the movie again.
Have you had any surprises or unexpected little tidbits of info about your favorite movies? Do share!
Today we went to Taco Bell. It's one of my favorites, because I'm a vegetarian. It's tough to eat at any fast-food restaurant if you're a vegetarian, in this burger-is-king culture. But at Taco Bell, I can order *anything* on the menu and just ask for beans instead of meat. Simple! And don't think they don't know it...I saw a sign up today reminding people that during Lent, they can get any item made without meat.
My second happy of the week was Groundhog Day. Now, I know that good old Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, so that means six more weeks of winter. And I have to say, are you really surprised? At least in our neck of the woods, spring never comes this early.
But for many years, I've been a fan of the movie "Groundhog Day," with Bill Murray. I especially enjoy the scenes at Gobbler's Knob, when the groundhog is pulled out of his burrow and, with much pomp and circumstance, foretells six more weeks of winter.
So imagine my surprise when this year, I went to the Reuter's website to see what Phil had predicted, and found a video of the event. I viewed the video, and it's almost a carbon copy of the movie. I was so excited! I've watched it three or four times and now, I really have to watch the movie again.
Have you had any surprises or unexpected little tidbits of info about your favorite movies? Do share!
Monday, February 01, 2010
Monday Gripes, 2/1/10
I was reminded today of a catastrophic misspelling (the offender shall remain nameless) that really sets my teeth on edge. It's an adverb that's defined as "without much doubt, seems reasonably true."
The word is "probably," and as you may guess, it comes from the word "probable."
What really drives me batty is when people spell it "prolly." Oy! My only guess about this flagrant misspelling is that those people are spelling it phonetically--and "prolly" is the way they pronounce it.
(Suitable interval while Liz faints from the pain of it all, falls to the floor with a thud, slowly reawakens, shakes her head and staggers to her feet)
Oh. My. God. Please people, please, the word is PROBABLY. Pronounce and spell it right, and you'll add years to my life. I swear.
Okay, I feel better now that I've gotten that off my chest!
My second gripe for today is my own failing memory. I suppose everyone forgets things now and then; it's only human. And as we get older, we tend to forget more than we used to. (For instance, we forget what it feels like to be able to do a hundred sit-ups in a row. Seriously.)
What really irritates me is when I forget things that have a timely nature to them, i.e., a doctor's appointment, a phone call that needs to be made, when the post office closes. It's not so much that I forget them that bugs me, but that I remember them when it's too late to do anything about it but smack my forehead and swear.
What, exactly, is up with that?
I mean, if I'm going to forget I have a doctor's appointment until it's too late to go, why remember it then? I'd be much happier, if I have to forget, then to never remember at all. Because you see, remembering too late creates guilt and stress, something that's bound to only make me forget even more things.
So that's my request of my own peculiar gray matter: either do your job with one hundred percent efficiency (okay, I'll take ninety), or just forget about it. Tell me, is that too much to ask?
The word is "probably," and as you may guess, it comes from the word "probable."
What really drives me batty is when people spell it "prolly." Oy! My only guess about this flagrant misspelling is that those people are spelling it phonetically--and "prolly" is the way they pronounce it.
(Suitable interval while Liz faints from the pain of it all, falls to the floor with a thud, slowly reawakens, shakes her head and staggers to her feet)
Oh. My. God. Please people, please, the word is PROBABLY. Pronounce and spell it right, and you'll add years to my life. I swear.
Okay, I feel better now that I've gotten that off my chest!
My second gripe for today is my own failing memory. I suppose everyone forgets things now and then; it's only human. And as we get older, we tend to forget more than we used to. (For instance, we forget what it feels like to be able to do a hundred sit-ups in a row. Seriously.)
What really irritates me is when I forget things that have a timely nature to them, i.e., a doctor's appointment, a phone call that needs to be made, when the post office closes. It's not so much that I forget them that bugs me, but that I remember them when it's too late to do anything about it but smack my forehead and swear.
What, exactly, is up with that?
I mean, if I'm going to forget I have a doctor's appointment until it's too late to go, why remember it then? I'd be much happier, if I have to forget, then to never remember at all. Because you see, remembering too late creates guilt and stress, something that's bound to only make me forget even more things.
So that's my request of my own peculiar gray matter: either do your job with one hundred percent efficiency (okay, I'll take ninety), or just forget about it. Tell me, is that too much to ask?
Friday, January 29, 2010
Friday Happies 1/29/10
Friday Happies time again. The thing I'm most grateful and happy for today is indoor heating! It's SO cold here today, only 15 degrees and with the wind, it feels like it's close to zero outside. I'm also happy that today I was driving the car with the heater that works! Lucky me.
Seriously, indoor plumbing and electricity and heat has to be one of the best inventions ever. I can't imagine what it must be like to have grown up in a home with only a fireplace and/or woodburning stove for heat. My mother tells stories of rushing down to the kitchen on frigid cold mornings to dress by the stove, as her bedroom was just too cold.
That leads to my second happy: I'm happy I live in a temperate zone, where winter is truly only one season of the year. Soon it will be spring; then summer; then fall. Just when you think you've had enough of the heat or the cold, it changes. What a great system!
And while we're talking about marvelous inventions, how about the microwave? I remember how troublesome leftovers were, when you had to either put them in a big pan in the oven, or try to reheat them in a saucepan on top of the stove. They'd stick and burn and make a mess, and just didn't seem to be worth the effort.
Now, I can put that leftover spaghetti or omelet or stew on a plate, pop it in the microwave, press a few buttons and, voila! (Practically) instant hot food. I absolutely love the microwave, and sure can't imagine any circumstances under which I'd go back to life without it.
What are your favorite convenience inventions--or those that you truly can't live without?
Seriously, indoor plumbing and electricity and heat has to be one of the best inventions ever. I can't imagine what it must be like to have grown up in a home with only a fireplace and/or woodburning stove for heat. My mother tells stories of rushing down to the kitchen on frigid cold mornings to dress by the stove, as her bedroom was just too cold.
That leads to my second happy: I'm happy I live in a temperate zone, where winter is truly only one season of the year. Soon it will be spring; then summer; then fall. Just when you think you've had enough of the heat or the cold, it changes. What a great system!
And while we're talking about marvelous inventions, how about the microwave? I remember how troublesome leftovers were, when you had to either put them in a big pan in the oven, or try to reheat them in a saucepan on top of the stove. They'd stick and burn and make a mess, and just didn't seem to be worth the effort.
Now, I can put that leftover spaghetti or omelet or stew on a plate, pop it in the microwave, press a few buttons and, voila! (Practically) instant hot food. I absolutely love the microwave, and sure can't imagine any circumstances under which I'd go back to life without it.
What are your favorite convenience inventions--or those that you truly can't live without?
Monday, January 25, 2010
Monday Gripes, 1/25/10
Rain, rain, go away, come again another day. That's what I've been chanting all day today, as it drizzles, drips and pours. Flooding alerts are up everywhere, as not only do we have the rain to deal with, but also the melting of the over one foot of snowmelt to deal with.
Rain has always been one of my gripes. I know it's necessary to the foliage, the water table, and the planet...but I just can't feel happy on gray, wet days. Snow, I can deal with, but not rain.
Speaking of rain, one of my favorite short stories is called, "Rain, Rain, Go Away" by Harlan Ellison. In this story, a normal, average fellow finds that this magic chant of childhood really DOES have power when he repeats it...and he learns the consequences. Check it out in his story story collection, ELLISON WONDERLAND: http://www.amazon.com/Ellison-Wonderland-Harlan/dp/0759298149/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1264445557&sr=8-1
Another thing that really bugs me is the way the grocery store constantly freaks me out. Just when I find a product I like, they stop carrying it. Or they instead carry a different size or shape of bottle, or change the label. Or they raise the price. Or they move it to a different shelf, or section.
Don't get me wrong, I love to try new things. But I also like the comfort of the tried and true, and it really burns my toast (my latest favorite saying, BTW) to get used to something and really learn to love it, only to have it transmogrify or disappear.
And that goes for lots of things beyond food products. For example: a new TV show appears. I watch an entire season of it and really become a fan, only to have it disappear.
I find a clothing store, or bookstore, or restaurant, and it's my new favorite place. Then one day it's gone, boarded up or turned into a flooring store or tobacco shop. Sheesh.
So what has changed or disappeared on you and invited your ire?
Rain has always been one of my gripes. I know it's necessary to the foliage, the water table, and the planet...but I just can't feel happy on gray, wet days. Snow, I can deal with, but not rain.
Speaking of rain, one of my favorite short stories is called, "Rain, Rain, Go Away" by Harlan Ellison. In this story, a normal, average fellow finds that this magic chant of childhood really DOES have power when he repeats it...and he learns the consequences. Check it out in his story story collection, ELLISON WONDERLAND: http://www.amazon.com/Ellison-Wonderland-Harlan/dp/0759298149/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1264445557&sr=8-1
Another thing that really bugs me is the way the grocery store constantly freaks me out. Just when I find a product I like, they stop carrying it. Or they instead carry a different size or shape of bottle, or change the label. Or they raise the price. Or they move it to a different shelf, or section.
Don't get me wrong, I love to try new things. But I also like the comfort of the tried and true, and it really burns my toast (my latest favorite saying, BTW) to get used to something and really learn to love it, only to have it transmogrify or disappear.
And that goes for lots of things beyond food products. For example: a new TV show appears. I watch an entire season of it and really become a fan, only to have it disappear.
I find a clothing store, or bookstore, or restaurant, and it's my new favorite place. Then one day it's gone, boarded up or turned into a flooring store or tobacco shop. Sheesh.
So what has changed or disappeared on you and invited your ire?
Friday, January 22, 2010
Friday Happies 1/22/10
A second installment of Friday Happies. I hope whoever is reading this blog enjoys the new features!
Yesterday was my grandson's birthday, and that reminds me how happy I am to be a Nana. I enjoyed raising our children, but it was a 24/7 job with the heavy responsibility of raising them "right," instilling in them our values, and seeing that they could stand on their own as adults and be happy. That can put a lot of strain on a person!
As a grandmother, I can enjoy the hugs and kisses, the pictures presented with pomp and solemnity, the excitement of Christmas and birthday mornings, and the sheer innocent love of a child for a grandparent...and I don't have to worry that child won't turn out right because of me.
I think grandchildren are a reward, and I'm so delighted I did something right to deserve them! Far from making me feel old, they make me feel young again as I remember their mother's childhood years, and I get to enjoy them over again.
And my second bit of happiness today is that it's Friday. TGIF! I'm sure people the world over feel the same way. Friday for me is a break in my everyday routine. Instead of writing and editing all day, I put in a mere hour or two. Then I grab my shopping list (and the cooler, if it's much above freezing outside) and get the groceries, stashing the perishables in the cooler. Then I meet my husband at his workplace, and we go out for lunch. It's become a tradition that we both look forward to, to mark the start of a weekend where we'll get at least a *little* free time.
How about you? What traditions do you have that bring you joy?
Yesterday was my grandson's birthday, and that reminds me how happy I am to be a Nana. I enjoyed raising our children, but it was a 24/7 job with the heavy responsibility of raising them "right," instilling in them our values, and seeing that they could stand on their own as adults and be happy. That can put a lot of strain on a person!
As a grandmother, I can enjoy the hugs and kisses, the pictures presented with pomp and solemnity, the excitement of Christmas and birthday mornings, and the sheer innocent love of a child for a grandparent...and I don't have to worry that child won't turn out right because of me.
I think grandchildren are a reward, and I'm so delighted I did something right to deserve them! Far from making me feel old, they make me feel young again as I remember their mother's childhood years, and I get to enjoy them over again.
And my second bit of happiness today is that it's Friday. TGIF! I'm sure people the world over feel the same way. Friday for me is a break in my everyday routine. Instead of writing and editing all day, I put in a mere hour or two. Then I grab my shopping list (and the cooler, if it's much above freezing outside) and get the groceries, stashing the perishables in the cooler. Then I meet my husband at his workplace, and we go out for lunch. It's become a tradition that we both look forward to, to mark the start of a weekend where we'll get at least a *little* free time.
How about you? What traditions do you have that bring you joy?
Monday, January 18, 2010
Monday Gripes 1/18/10
Week two of Monday Gripes. And my first gripe is that I have to write about my gripes! Hah! But seriously...
Related to the current 8+ inches of snow that just fell with more coming, I have a gripe with the snowplow drivers. Now, I know they can't help but pile snow up against my mailbox or the end of my driveway when they go by. But how do they manage to come by the very second I've finished, when I'm leaning on my shovel and thinking, "Ah, a job well done!" and then they come by and plow me back under?
Do they have ESP? A secret spy scope to watch me? Do they have bets on how I'll react when they roll by and leave me with several more feet of snow to shovel? Or do they get a chuckle when I have heart failure from shouting and gesturing wildly?
(sigh)
And my second gripe for today is related, though it may not seem to be. So bear with me.
I have a lovely cat named Burt. He's friendly and likes to hang out with us as much as possible. And there's nothing he likes better than a warm lap to sleep on.
The problem is *when* he decides to get on my lap. He has the uncanny ability (like the snowplow driver...) to know when I'm about to get up, and THEN he gets on my lap. So then I have to pick him up and move him and he gives me an evil glare.
I've watched him do this time and time again. I'm not giving off any signals...he doesn't wait till I start to rise. But inevitably, I will have been sitting on the couch watching a movie for two hours and in the final sixty seconds of the movie, he jumps onto my lap.
So what do you think...are the snowplow drivers and my cat in league?
Related to the current 8+ inches of snow that just fell with more coming, I have a gripe with the snowplow drivers. Now, I know they can't help but pile snow up against my mailbox or the end of my driveway when they go by. But how do they manage to come by the very second I've finished, when I'm leaning on my shovel and thinking, "Ah, a job well done!" and then they come by and plow me back under?
Do they have ESP? A secret spy scope to watch me? Do they have bets on how I'll react when they roll by and leave me with several more feet of snow to shovel? Or do they get a chuckle when I have heart failure from shouting and gesturing wildly?
(sigh)
And my second gripe for today is related, though it may not seem to be. So bear with me.
I have a lovely cat named Burt. He's friendly and likes to hang out with us as much as possible. And there's nothing he likes better than a warm lap to sleep on.
The problem is *when* he decides to get on my lap. He has the uncanny ability (like the snowplow driver...) to know when I'm about to get up, and THEN he gets on my lap. So then I have to pick him up and move him and he gives me an evil glare.
I've watched him do this time and time again. I'm not giving off any signals...he doesn't wait till I start to rise. But inevitably, I will have been sitting on the couch watching a movie for two hours and in the final sixty seconds of the movie, he jumps onto my lap.
So what do you think...are the snowplow drivers and my cat in league?
Friday, January 15, 2010
Friday Happies
In conjunction with my new "Monday Gripes" column every Monday, where I share a few of my pet peeves and invite you to share yours, I'm also going to end the week on a happier note with Friday Happies. I'll try to share a couple of good thoughts, positive emotions, or great things that have happened to me. Things to be thankful for. And I definitely want to hear yours!
Although I didn't envision it when I came up with the idea for this column, I'm happy to be alive and living in a safe area. After the devastating earthquake in Haiti and the horrendous loss of life, I realize how lucky I am to not live in an earthquake zone--or in "Tornado Alley" as I used to--or any place threatened regularly by Mother Nature's violence. And I'm proud and happy to see American's quick response to the disaster, pouring money and medicine and workers into Haiti, to help get her back on her feet again. I'm very proud to be an American.
And I'm happy that my family is whole and healthy and happy, and most of my family lives nearby. That's a blessing I never take for granted, but especially so in times like these.
Next week I'll return to more mundane sources of happiness. :-) After all, one of my firm life beliefs is that you have to appreciate the little things, because 99% of the time, that's what your life is made up of. But today seemed like time to remember the big ones.
So, what makes YOU happy?
Although I didn't envision it when I came up with the idea for this column, I'm happy to be alive and living in a safe area. After the devastating earthquake in Haiti and the horrendous loss of life, I realize how lucky I am to not live in an earthquake zone--or in "Tornado Alley" as I used to--or any place threatened regularly by Mother Nature's violence. And I'm proud and happy to see American's quick response to the disaster, pouring money and medicine and workers into Haiti, to help get her back on her feet again. I'm very proud to be an American.
And I'm happy that my family is whole and healthy and happy, and most of my family lives nearby. That's a blessing I never take for granted, but especially so in times like these.
Next week I'll return to more mundane sources of happiness. :-) After all, one of my firm life beliefs is that you have to appreciate the little things, because 99% of the time, that's what your life is made up of. But today seemed like time to remember the big ones.
So, what makes YOU happy?
Monday, January 11, 2010
Monday Gripes
I've decided to start a new weekly feature, "Monday Gripes." Each Monday, I'm going to post about a thing or two that really burns my toast. :-)
And naturally, I want to hear about the things that gripe YOU. So, here we go!
The first gripe I have for today is a grammatical one. You've heard it everywhere and no doubt it has just flown right over your head, since you're not an obsessive/compulsive editor like me. It's when people say "try and" instead of "try to." Examples:
We'll try and get there on time.
I will try and help you change your flat tire.
She'll try and make you an appointment.
Wrong, wrong, wrong! "Try and" implied you're doing two things at once, trying plus something else such as getting, helping, or making in the above examples. But what you're actually doing is trying TO do something--trying to get, trying to help, trying to make. So it should be:
We'll try to get there on time.
I will try to help you change your flat tire.
She'll try to make you an appointment.
If everyone who reads this will make that one small change, Liz will be a much happier camper!
My second gripe is something that happens to me all the time while driving. It seems there are many people out there who don't know how to MERGE. It happens all the time: I'm driving along an interstate or other limited access road, minding my own business. Someone drives up an on-ramp, much slower than the speed of the traffic they're trying to pull into, and simply, majestically, lumbers into my lane, forcing me to either speed up to get ahead of them, move into another lane, or, more likely, hit the brakes sharply to avoid rear-ending them.
This too is wrong, wrong, wrong.
When you're merging onto a highway, it is YOUR job to adjust your speed and merging so you move evenly into the flow of traffic, without causing said traffic to speed up, slow down, brake, or move to another lane. The ongoing traffic doesn't have to do anything; you're the one merging, it's up to you to make the adjustments.
There! I feel so much better now. Let me know what your Monday Gripes are, and we can commiserate! Happy Monday.
And naturally, I want to hear about the things that gripe YOU. So, here we go!
The first gripe I have for today is a grammatical one. You've heard it everywhere and no doubt it has just flown right over your head, since you're not an obsessive/compulsive editor like me. It's when people say "try and" instead of "try to." Examples:
We'll try and get there on time.
I will try and help you change your flat tire.
She'll try and make you an appointment.
Wrong, wrong, wrong! "Try and" implied you're doing two things at once, trying plus something else such as getting, helping, or making in the above examples. But what you're actually doing is trying TO do something--trying to get, trying to help, trying to make. So it should be:
We'll try to get there on time.
I will try to help you change your flat tire.
She'll try to make you an appointment.
If everyone who reads this will make that one small change, Liz will be a much happier camper!
My second gripe is something that happens to me all the time while driving. It seems there are many people out there who don't know how to MERGE. It happens all the time: I'm driving along an interstate or other limited access road, minding my own business. Someone drives up an on-ramp, much slower than the speed of the traffic they're trying to pull into, and simply, majestically, lumbers into my lane, forcing me to either speed up to get ahead of them, move into another lane, or, more likely, hit the brakes sharply to avoid rear-ending them.
This too is wrong, wrong, wrong.
When you're merging onto a highway, it is YOUR job to adjust your speed and merging so you move evenly into the flow of traffic, without causing said traffic to speed up, slow down, brake, or move to another lane. The ongoing traffic doesn't have to do anything; you're the one merging, it's up to you to make the adjustments.
There! I feel so much better now. Let me know what your Monday Gripes are, and we can commiserate! Happy Monday.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Writing Workshops Online
Is your Christmas cash burning a hole in your pocket? Do you plan to make a New Year’s resolution to become a better writer? If so, check out the classes I have coming up at Writers Online Workshops:
Accelerated Fundamentals of Fiction Writing: starts March 11. Develop effective creative writing techniques, believable characters and compelling plots that can be applied to any long or short fiction form.
Advanced Novel Writing Workshop: starts January 14. Continue working on your novel manuscript with help and critiques from a published novelist, and the encouragement and feedback of your peers.
Essentials of Romance Writing: starts December 31. Learn what sets romance writing apart from other types of fiction including the hero and heroine, sexual tension, plot and conventions of the genre.
Focus on the Novel: starts February 25. Work with a published novelist to develop an idea suitable for a novel, develop a working outline for your novel, and write and revise the opening chapters.
Write Great Fiction: Description & Setting: starts Dec. 31. Learn how striking, yet credible, description is formed—and what such description allows you to accomplish in your own work.
For more information or to register, click on this link: http://www.writersonlineworkshops.com/retail/faculty.aspx . Scroll down to my name and click on the course(s) you’re interested in. Hope to see you there!
Liz
Accelerated Fundamentals of Fiction Writing: starts March 11. Develop effective creative writing techniques, believable characters and compelling plots that can be applied to any long or short fiction form.
Advanced Novel Writing Workshop: starts January 14. Continue working on your novel manuscript with help and critiques from a published novelist, and the encouragement and feedback of your peers.
Essentials of Romance Writing: starts December 31. Learn what sets romance writing apart from other types of fiction including the hero and heroine, sexual tension, plot and conventions of the genre.
Focus on the Novel: starts February 25. Work with a published novelist to develop an idea suitable for a novel, develop a working outline for your novel, and write and revise the opening chapters.
Write Great Fiction: Description & Setting: starts Dec. 31. Learn how striking, yet credible, description is formed—and what such description allows you to accomplish in your own work.
For more information or to register, click on this link: http://www.writersonlineworkshops.com/retail/faculty.aspx . Scroll down to my name and click on the course(s) you’re interested in. Hope to see you there!
Liz
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Dazzling Dialogue Workshop
Is your dialogue deadly dull? Do your characters open their mouths and put your readers to sleep?
If your dialogue could use a little dazzle, check out Writing Great Fiction: Dialogue, offered by Writers Online Workshops.
http://www.writersonlineworkshops.com/retail/courses.aspx?r=writing-effective-dialogue
I'm teaching the section starting November 19. The course runs for 6 weeks, and will give you lectures, reading assignments, writing assignments, and group critiques. Soon, you'll be the dialogue king!
Hope to see you there.
Liz
If your dialogue could use a little dazzle, check out Writing Great Fiction: Dialogue, offered by Writers Online Workshops.
http://www.writersonlineworkshops.com/retail/courses.aspx?r=writing-effective-dialogue
I'm teaching the section starting November 19. The course runs for 6 weeks, and will give you lectures, reading assignments, writing assignments, and group critiques. Soon, you'll be the dialogue king!
Hope to see you there.
Liz
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
New Workshop at AllWriters' Workplace & Workshop
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AllWriters’ Workplace & Workshop brings two more instructors on board!
WAUKESHA – Into a studio already overflowing with creative talent, two more instructors are finding their way. Authors Elizabeth Delisi and Karlyn Thayer are joining the online faculty at AllWriters’ Workplace & Workshop!
ELIZABETH DELISI will be teaching an online course on using Tarot Cards to enhance your writing. Elizabeth has wanted to be a writer since she was in first grade, and probably would have written in the womb if she could have convinced her mother to swallow a pencil. But life hasn't always gone the way she planned, and on her road to publication she worked as a motel maid, waitress, secretary, administrative aide, substitute teacher, and newspaper reporter. Elizabeth's novels include a Fatal Fortune, first in the Lottie Baldwin paranormal mystery series; Lady Of The Two Lands, a time-travel romance; and Since All Is Passing, a suspense. She's written contemporary and paranormal romance novellas for One Touch Beyond; Enchanted Holidays; Holiday Hearts; Holiday Hearts 2; and Cupid’s Capers, and has also published two short story collections, Mirror Images and Penumbra. In addition to her writing, Elizabeth edits for several small publishers and individuals, and besides teaching for AllWriters’, she teaches for Writer's Digest. She's taught at Barnes & Noble online, and for various RWA chapters. Elizabeth lives in New Hampshire.
KARLYN THAYER will be teaching a how-to class in writing the romance and a refresher course in grammar. Karlyn has had numerous romance stories published, along with a few literary-type tales. One story was nominated for a Pushcart Prize. Her work has been published in the literary journal of Ball State University and many more magazines. When not writing, Karlyn takes care of seven former race horses, along with dogs and cats. Karlyn is a member of Toastmasters International and is known for presenting humorous talks. "I try to include a little humor in everything I do. I think the world needs more humor. Sometimes we have to work to find the funny side of situations, but doing so is worth the time and effort if we can bring laughter to our own lives and the lives of others. Yikes, I just realized this paragraph is way too serious!"
AllWriters’ Workplace and Workshop offers on-site and online writing courses in all genres and abilities of creative writing, as well as coaching, editing, and marketing services. A schedule of classes and registration is available online at http://www.allwriters.org or you can call 262-446-0284.
AllWriters’ Workplace & Workshop brings two more instructors on board!
WAUKESHA – Into a studio already overflowing with creative talent, two more instructors are finding their way. Authors Elizabeth Delisi and Karlyn Thayer are joining the online faculty at AllWriters’ Workplace & Workshop!
ELIZABETH DELISI will be teaching an online course on using Tarot Cards to enhance your writing. Elizabeth has wanted to be a writer since she was in first grade, and probably would have written in the womb if she could have convinced her mother to swallow a pencil. But life hasn't always gone the way she planned, and on her road to publication she worked as a motel maid, waitress, secretary, administrative aide, substitute teacher, and newspaper reporter. Elizabeth's novels include a Fatal Fortune, first in the Lottie Baldwin paranormal mystery series; Lady Of The Two Lands, a time-travel romance; and Since All Is Passing, a suspense. She's written contemporary and paranormal romance novellas for One Touch Beyond; Enchanted Holidays; Holiday Hearts; Holiday Hearts 2; and Cupid’s Capers, and has also published two short story collections, Mirror Images and Penumbra. In addition to her writing, Elizabeth edits for several small publishers and individuals, and besides teaching for AllWriters’, she teaches for Writer's Digest. She's taught at Barnes & Noble online, and for various RWA chapters. Elizabeth lives in New Hampshire.
KARLYN THAYER will be teaching a how-to class in writing the romance and a refresher course in grammar. Karlyn has had numerous romance stories published, along with a few literary-type tales. One story was nominated for a Pushcart Prize. Her work has been published in the literary journal of Ball State University and many more magazines. When not writing, Karlyn takes care of seven former race horses, along with dogs and cats. Karlyn is a member of Toastmasters International and is known for presenting humorous talks. "I try to include a little humor in everything I do. I think the world needs more humor. Sometimes we have to work to find the funny side of situations, but doing so is worth the time and effort if we can bring laughter to our own lives and the lives of others. Yikes, I just realized this paragraph is way too serious!"
AllWriters’ Workplace and Workshop offers on-site and online writing courses in all genres and abilities of creative writing, as well as coaching, editing, and marketing services. A schedule of classes and registration is available online at http://www.allwriters.org or you can call 262-446-0284.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Two Exciting Writing Courses
I'm teaching two exciting writing courses, starting this month.
ESSENTIALS OF MYSTERY WRITING
Do you love reading a good mystery? Have you always wanted to write one? During the Essentials of Mystery Writing workshop, you’ll have the choice of creating a brand new mystery story from scratch or working with a story you already have in progress.
In this course you will:
* Learn how to construct a compelling mystery plot
* Develop fascinating characters
* Plant clues
* Keep your readers turning the pages, eager to find out what will happen next
Course Structure
The workshop will consist of six one-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with a writing assignment to be submitted to the instructor for private review. In addition, work will be posted each session for group review and feedback. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussion and be encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing and creativity exercises. (1.2 CEUs)
For more info or to sign up, go here: http://www.writersonlineworkshops.com/retail/courses.aspx?r=essentials-of-mystery-writing
ESSENTIALS OF ROMANCE WRITING
Do you yearn to write a romantic story? If so, you need to know what sets romance writing apart from other types of fiction. This course explores why romance is the same, yet different. Some essential components of romance are unique to the genre, while some romance requirements are identical to those of any good fiction story. Neither Stephen King nor Tom Clancy could sit down and write a romance unless he first familiarized himself with the specific factors that create a successful romance. This workshop will help you to understand those specific factors that make up the specialized world of romantic fiction.
In this course you will:
* Learn how the hero of an action novel differs from the hero of a romantic novel
* Master the tricky business of putting your hero and heroine together and keeping them together-yet-apart until the story's close
* Create the sexual tension that will have your readers turning the pages late into the night
* Discover conventions must be followed and what rules can be broken for readers to embrace your work
Course Structure
The workshop will consist of six one-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with a writing assignment to be submitted to the instructor for private review. In addition, work will be posted each session for group review and feedback. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussion and be encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing and creativity exercises. (1.2 CEUs)
For more info or to sign up, go here: http://www.writersonlineworkshops.com/retail/courses.aspx?r=essentials-of-romance-writing
And for those of you who read all the way down here, use this code to get a 10% discount: ED9A
Hope to see you there!
Liz
ESSENTIALS OF MYSTERY WRITING
Do you love reading a good mystery? Have you always wanted to write one? During the Essentials of Mystery Writing workshop, you’ll have the choice of creating a brand new mystery story from scratch or working with a story you already have in progress.
In this course you will:
* Learn how to construct a compelling mystery plot
* Develop fascinating characters
* Plant clues
* Keep your readers turning the pages, eager to find out what will happen next
Course Structure
The workshop will consist of six one-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with a writing assignment to be submitted to the instructor for private review. In addition, work will be posted each session for group review and feedback. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussion and be encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing and creativity exercises. (1.2 CEUs)
For more info or to sign up, go here: http://www.writersonlineworkshops.com/retail/courses.aspx?r=essentials-of-mystery-writing
ESSENTIALS OF ROMANCE WRITING
Do you yearn to write a romantic story? If so, you need to know what sets romance writing apart from other types of fiction. This course explores why romance is the same, yet different. Some essential components of romance are unique to the genre, while some romance requirements are identical to those of any good fiction story. Neither Stephen King nor Tom Clancy could sit down and write a romance unless he first familiarized himself with the specific factors that create a successful romance. This workshop will help you to understand those specific factors that make up the specialized world of romantic fiction.
In this course you will:
* Learn how the hero of an action novel differs from the hero of a romantic novel
* Master the tricky business of putting your hero and heroine together and keeping them together-yet-apart until the story's close
* Create the sexual tension that will have your readers turning the pages late into the night
* Discover conventions must be followed and what rules can be broken for readers to embrace your work
Course Structure
The workshop will consist of six one-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with a writing assignment to be submitted to the instructor for private review. In addition, work will be posted each session for group review and feedback. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussion and be encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing and creativity exercises. (1.2 CEUs)
For more info or to sign up, go here: http://www.writersonlineworkshops.com/retail/courses.aspx?r=essentials-of-romance-writing
And for those of you who read all the way down here, use this code to get a 10% discount: ED9A
Hope to see you there!
Liz
Monday, June 08, 2009
10% Discount on Writing Workshop
10% Discount on Writing Workshop
In case you've been waiting to take a writing workshop when the price comes down and you can get a good deal, your time is here.
Use coupon code ED9A when you register, and you can take 10% off any 2009 writing workshop at Writers Online Workshops, the online writing school of Writer's Digest magazine.
Here's the upcoming workshop I'm teaching:
Essentials of Romance Writing, July 23 - September 2, 2009
Description: Do you yearn to write a romantic story? If so, you need to know what sets romance writing apart from other types of fiction. This course explores why romance is the same, yet different. Some essential components of romance are unique to the genre, while some romance requirements are identical to those of any good fiction story. Neither Stephen King nor Tom Clancy could sit down and write a romance unless he first familiarized himself with the specific factors that create a successful romance. This workshop will help you to understand those specific factors that make up the specialized world of romantic fiction.
In this course you will:
* Learn how the hero of an action novel differs from the hero of a romantic novel
* Master the tricky business of putting your hero and heroine together and keeping them together-yet-apart until the story's close
* Create the sexual tension that will have your readers turning the pages late into the night
* Discover conventions must be followed and what rules can be broken for readers to embrace your work
The workshop will consist of six one-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with a writing assignment to be submitted to the instructor for private review. In addition, work will be posted each session for group review and feedback. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussion and be encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing and creativity exercises.
For more information, or to register, go here: http://www.writersonlineworkshops.com/retail/courses.aspx?r=essentials-of-romance-writing
~~~~~~~~
Hope to see you there!
Liz
In case you've been waiting to take a writing workshop when the price comes down and you can get a good deal, your time is here.
Use coupon code ED9A when you register, and you can take 10% off any 2009 writing workshop at Writers Online Workshops, the online writing school of Writer's Digest magazine.
Here's the upcoming workshop I'm teaching:
Essentials of Romance Writing, July 23 - September 2, 2009
Description: Do you yearn to write a romantic story? If so, you need to know what sets romance writing apart from other types of fiction. This course explores why romance is the same, yet different. Some essential components of romance are unique to the genre, while some romance requirements are identical to those of any good fiction story. Neither Stephen King nor Tom Clancy could sit down and write a romance unless he first familiarized himself with the specific factors that create a successful romance. This workshop will help you to understand those specific factors that make up the specialized world of romantic fiction.
In this course you will:
* Learn how the hero of an action novel differs from the hero of a romantic novel
* Master the tricky business of putting your hero and heroine together and keeping them together-yet-apart until the story's close
* Create the sexual tension that will have your readers turning the pages late into the night
* Discover conventions must be followed and what rules can be broken for readers to embrace your work
The workshop will consist of six one-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with a writing assignment to be submitted to the instructor for private review. In addition, work will be posted each session for group review and feedback. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussion and be encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing and creativity exercises.
For more information, or to register, go here: http://www.writersonlineworkshops.com/retail/courses.aspx?r=essentials-of-romance-writing
~~~~~~~~
Hope to see you there!
Liz
Monday, May 18, 2009
Guest Blogging
Hey, everyone, just a quick note to let you know I'm guest-blogging this week at Star-Crossed Romance:
http://star-crossedromance.blogspot.com/2009/05/guest-elizabeth-delisi.html
I've posted an article on how to use your words to enhance the atmosphere and mood of your story. And if you post a comment, you might be a lucky winner of a free e-copy of my suspense novel, SINCE ALL IS PASSING. Check it out!
http://star-crossedromance.blogspot.com/2009/05/guest-elizabeth-delisi.html
I've posted an article on how to use your words to enhance the atmosphere and mood of your story. And if you post a comment, you might be a lucky winner of a free e-copy of my suspense novel, SINCE ALL IS PASSING. Check it out!
Friday, March 27, 2009
Developing Your Story With Tarot
PERMISSION TO FORWARD
Looking for a new way to breathe life into your outlining process, your plots, your characters? If so, have we got a class for you! Registration is now open for the Southern Tier Authors of Romance (STAR) April On-line Workshop: I PREDICT A NEW STORY IN YOUR FUTURE: Developing Your Story with the Tarot, with Elizabeth Delisi.
Elizabeth Delisi, a.k.a. Madame Liz, will teach you how to use the ancient art of the Tarot to develop stories, plots and subplots, heroes, heroines and villains. And more! You’ll learn the history of the Tarot, how to choose a deck, how to read the cards, and how to use those readings to develop and improve your writing.
THE INSTRUCTOR: Elizabeth Delisi’s novels include: Fatal Fortune, first in the Lottie Baldwin paranormal mystery series; Lady of the Two Lands, a time-travel romance, and Since all is Passing, a suspense. She’s written contemporary and paranormal romance novellas for One Touch Beyond, Enchanted Holidays, Holiday Hearts, Holiday Hearts 2, and Cupid’s Capers, and has two short story collections, Mirror Images and Penumbra. In addition, she edits for several small publishers and individuals, and teaches on-line writing course for Writer’s Digest. Visit Elizabeth’s web site at: www.elizabethdelisi.com. Registration begins March 1, and runs through April 1, 2009.
THE CLASS: The class will run from April 2 – 30, and will consist of a mix of lectures, exercises and discussions that will be conducted via a private Yahoo Groups listserv. All writers are welcome. If you know how to send e-mail, then you’ve mastered all of the technical skills you need to participate in our workshops. You will be automatically enrolled in the workshop’s listserv just before the class beings. All of the messages posted by the instructor and other students will be delivered directly to your inbox, although you may also view them from the Yahoo website.
THE COST: $20 for RWA members; $25 for non-members.
TO REGISTER: To register, send a check or Money Order in U.S. Dollars, made out to STAR On-Line Workshop, and mail to: Carol A. Henry, STAR On-line Workshop Coordinator, 90 Dry Brook Road, Willseyville, NY 13864. Alternatively, if you have a PayPal account, you can pay by going to http://www.PayPal.com. Select the “send money” button, enter the amount due, and STAR’s email address for payment: starpay@gmail.com. Then send your registration information to Carol at: carolhenry@frontiernet.net).
REGISTRATION INFORMATION: name, address, phone number, email address, RWA#
NEED MORE INFORMATION: Visit STAR’s website at: www.STARRWA.ORG, or contact Carol at carolhenry@frontiernet.net.
Looking for a new way to breathe life into your outlining process, your plots, your characters? If so, have we got a class for you! Registration is now open for the Southern Tier Authors of Romance (STAR) April On-line Workshop: I PREDICT A NEW STORY IN YOUR FUTURE: Developing Your Story with the Tarot, with Elizabeth Delisi.
Elizabeth Delisi, a.k.a. Madame Liz, will teach you how to use the ancient art of the Tarot to develop stories, plots and subplots, heroes, heroines and villains. And more! You’ll learn the history of the Tarot, how to choose a deck, how to read the cards, and how to use those readings to develop and improve your writing.
THE INSTRUCTOR: Elizabeth Delisi’s novels include: Fatal Fortune, first in the Lottie Baldwin paranormal mystery series; Lady of the Two Lands, a time-travel romance, and Since all is Passing, a suspense. She’s written contemporary and paranormal romance novellas for One Touch Beyond, Enchanted Holidays, Holiday Hearts, Holiday Hearts 2, and Cupid’s Capers, and has two short story collections, Mirror Images and Penumbra. In addition, she edits for several small publishers and individuals, and teaches on-line writing course for Writer’s Digest. Visit Elizabeth’s web site at: www.elizabethdelisi.com. Registration begins March 1, and runs through April 1, 2009.
THE CLASS: The class will run from April 2 – 30, and will consist of a mix of lectures, exercises and discussions that will be conducted via a private Yahoo Groups listserv. All writers are welcome. If you know how to send e-mail, then you’ve mastered all of the technical skills you need to participate in our workshops. You will be automatically enrolled in the workshop’s listserv just before the class beings. All of the messages posted by the instructor and other students will be delivered directly to your inbox, although you may also view them from the Yahoo website.
THE COST: $20 for RWA members; $25 for non-members.
TO REGISTER: To register, send a check or Money Order in U.S. Dollars, made out to STAR On-Line Workshop, and mail to: Carol A. Henry, STAR On-line Workshop Coordinator, 90 Dry Brook Road, Willseyville, NY 13864. Alternatively, if you have a PayPal account, you can pay by going to http://www.PayPal.com. Select the “send money” button, enter the amount due, and STAR’s email address for payment: starpay@gmail.com. Then send your registration information to Carol at: carolhenry@frontiernet.net).
REGISTRATION INFORMATION: name, address, phone number, email address, RWA#
NEED MORE INFORMATION: Visit STAR’s website at: www.STARRWA.ORG, or contact Carol at carolhenry@frontiernet.net.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
10% Discount on Writing Workshops
10% Discount on Writing Workshops
In case you've been biding your time, waiting to take a writing workshop when the price comes down and you can get a good deal, your time has come.
Use coupon code ED9A when you register, and you can take 10% off any 2009 writing workshop at Writers Online Workshops, the online writing school of Writer's Digest.
Here are the upcoming workshops I'm teaching:
Essentials of Romance Writing, April 9 - May 20, 2009
Description: Do you yearn to write a romantic story? If so, you need to know what sets romance writing apart from other types of fiction. This course explores why romance is the same, yet different. Some essential components of romance are unique to the genre, while some romance requirements are identical to those of any good fiction story. Neither Stephen King nor Tom Clancy could sit down and write a romance unless he first familiarized himself with the specific factors that create a successful romance. This workshop will help you to understand those specific factors that make up the specialized world of romantic fiction.
In this course you will:
* Learn how the hero of an action novel differs from the hero of a romantic novel
* Master the tricky business of putting your hero and heroine together and keeping them together-yet-apart until the story's close
* Create the sexual tension that will have your readers turning the pages late into the night
* Discover conventions must be followed and what rules can be broken for readers to embrace your work
The workshop will consist of six one-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with a writing assignment to be submitted to the instructor for private review. In addition, work will be posted each session for group review and feedback. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussion and be encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing and creativity exercises.
Essentials of Mystery Writing, April 23 - June 3, 2009
Description: Do you love reading a good mystery? Have you always wanted to write one? During the Essentials of Mystery Writing workshop, you’ll have the choice of creating a brand new mystery story from scratch or working with a story you already have in progress.
In this course you will:
* Learn how to construct a compelling mystery plot
* Develop fascinating characters
* Plant clues
* Keep your readers turning the pages, eager to find out what will happen next
The workshop will consist of six one-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with a writing assignment to be submitted to the instructor for private review. In addition, work will be posted each session for group review and feedback. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussion and be encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing and creativity exercises.
Writing the Novel Proposal, April 23 - July 29, 2009
Description: Congratulations! For months, maybe years, you've worked diligently to craft well-rounded characters, map out every plot point and intricate sub-plot. You've researched your setting and made sure every detail is accurate. You've written and revised and revised some more and now—finally—your novel is finished. After you've taken a well-deserved break and toasted your accomplishment, it's time to find a home for your masterpiece. But just how, exactly, do you go about finding an agent or editor, and—even more important—getting one of them to say "yes"? If your goal is commercial publication, you need to know how to approach the market the way successful novelists do—with a professionally presented novel proposal.
At the conclusion of this workshop you will have developed a proposal package to submit to agents or editors—including query/cover letter and synopsis. You will also revise and polish the opening chapters of your novel (up to 12,000 words) with your instructor's feedback. In addition, you'll identify appropriate potential editors and agents to send your proposal when you're finished.
This workshop will consist of seven two-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with a writing assignment specifically related to your novel, which will be submitted to the instructor for private review at the end of the first week of the session. During the second week of each session, work will be posted for group critique. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussion and group critique sessions, and encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing exercises. (2.8 CEUs)
Please note: This workshop is ONLY for students with completed novel manuscripts; it is specifically intended to help you market your finished novel with the goal of commercial publication.
For more information, or to register, go here: http://www.writersonlineworkshops.com/retail/courses.aspx?r=writing-the-novel-proposal
~~~~~~~~
Hope to see you in one or all!
Liz
In case you've been biding your time, waiting to take a writing workshop when the price comes down and you can get a good deal, your time has come.
Use coupon code ED9A when you register, and you can take 10% off any 2009 writing workshop at Writers Online Workshops, the online writing school of Writer's Digest.
Here are the upcoming workshops I'm teaching:
Essentials of Romance Writing, April 9 - May 20, 2009
Description: Do you yearn to write a romantic story? If so, you need to know what sets romance writing apart from other types of fiction. This course explores why romance is the same, yet different. Some essential components of romance are unique to the genre, while some romance requirements are identical to those of any good fiction story. Neither Stephen King nor Tom Clancy could sit down and write a romance unless he first familiarized himself with the specific factors that create a successful romance. This workshop will help you to understand those specific factors that make up the specialized world of romantic fiction.
In this course you will:
* Learn how the hero of an action novel differs from the hero of a romantic novel
* Master the tricky business of putting your hero and heroine together and keeping them together-yet-apart until the story's close
* Create the sexual tension that will have your readers turning the pages late into the night
* Discover conventions must be followed and what rules can be broken for readers to embrace your work
The workshop will consist of six one-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with a writing assignment to be submitted to the instructor for private review. In addition, work will be posted each session for group review and feedback. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussion and be encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing and creativity exercises.
Essentials of Mystery Writing, April 23 - June 3, 2009
Description: Do you love reading a good mystery? Have you always wanted to write one? During the Essentials of Mystery Writing workshop, you’ll have the choice of creating a brand new mystery story from scratch or working with a story you already have in progress.
In this course you will:
* Learn how to construct a compelling mystery plot
* Develop fascinating characters
* Plant clues
* Keep your readers turning the pages, eager to find out what will happen next
The workshop will consist of six one-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with a writing assignment to be submitted to the instructor for private review. In addition, work will be posted each session for group review and feedback. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussion and be encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing and creativity exercises.
Writing the Novel Proposal, April 23 - July 29, 2009
Description: Congratulations! For months, maybe years, you've worked diligently to craft well-rounded characters, map out every plot point and intricate sub-plot. You've researched your setting and made sure every detail is accurate. You've written and revised and revised some more and now—finally—your novel is finished. After you've taken a well-deserved break and toasted your accomplishment, it's time to find a home for your masterpiece. But just how, exactly, do you go about finding an agent or editor, and—even more important—getting one of them to say "yes"? If your goal is commercial publication, you need to know how to approach the market the way successful novelists do—with a professionally presented novel proposal.
At the conclusion of this workshop you will have developed a proposal package to submit to agents or editors—including query/cover letter and synopsis. You will also revise and polish the opening chapters of your novel (up to 12,000 words) with your instructor's feedback. In addition, you'll identify appropriate potential editors and agents to send your proposal when you're finished.
This workshop will consist of seven two-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with a writing assignment specifically related to your novel, which will be submitted to the instructor for private review at the end of the first week of the session. During the second week of each session, work will be posted for group critique. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussion and group critique sessions, and encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing exercises. (2.8 CEUs)
Please note: This workshop is ONLY for students with completed novel manuscripts; it is specifically intended to help you market your finished novel with the goal of commercial publication.
For more information, or to register, go here: http://www.writersonlineworkshops.com/retail/courses.aspx?r=writing-the-novel-proposal
~~~~~~~~
Hope to see you in one or all!
Liz
Monday, February 23, 2009
Guest Blogger Cindy Green
Please help me welcome today's special guest blogger, Cindy Green. Cindy is an author who writes in several genres, so she definitely has something for everyone. I've asked Cindy a few questions and I think you'll enjoy reading her answers. Take it away, Cindy!
Q: Welcome to The World According to Liz. First, can you tell us a little about you and your books?
Hi Liz! Well, I was born in California and moved almost four years ago to North Carolina. I’ve been married for 14 years and have two boys. Previous to my writing career, I was a middle school teacher. I taught just about every subject with degrees in both history and education. I am now a stay at home mom and a homeschooler. I write in several genres: Contemporary, Inspirational, Romantic Suspense, Fantasy and Historical. I love to read them—love to write them. To date I have ten book titles of varying lengths from three different publishers. In my spare time, (ha) I love reading, photography, scrapbooking, Period Dramas, and spending time with family.
My most recent releases have been historicals. I have a steamy little historical western called The Heart Never Lies from Champagne Books. I’m new to this genre and I just had so much fun with it. Long and Short Reviews called it, "An Exceptional Read." And You Gotta Read Reviews gave it a "Need to Read" rating: Cindy K. Green was able to give us human emotion, love, lust, and adventure in a very well written novella. It's hard to imagine that in 28 very short pages The Heart Never Lies had it all.
Here is the blurb: When ranch hand Beau Tucker announces his intent to leave the Double C for California, Kit McCauley tells herself, "Good riddance." Unfortunately her heart isn’t quite in agreement with her head. Perhaps she’ll just have one more talk with the handsome cowboy before he disappears out of her life forever.
Temperatures rise as their interlude is interrupted by an injured horse thief who shoots at Beau and kidnaps Kit. Will Beau be in time to save her or did the ruffian’s bullet ring true, bringing his young life to an end and forever keeping their revelations unsaid?
You can get a copy at Champagne Books and Fictionwise for just $1.00. Read an excerpt on my website: Cindy Green.
Dilemma of the Heart was my second release this year and it is also a historical. This time it’s a sweet historical taking place in post-Civil War Philadelphia. I loved writing this story. I have a degree in history and have done special research on this time period, so I’d always wanted to write a historical set at this time. Dilemma is the story of loss and making a decision that could affect the rest of your life. It is poignant, moving and yes, I threw in some sass as well. There is a full-length sequel in the works.
Here is the blurb:
Cassandra Huddleston has a dilemma. Her heart still resides with her sweetheart, Frederick Adair, reported as killed in action at the close of the Civil War. Now she has a new suitor, Emerson Bryce, powerful, attractive, and dominant; he usually gets what he wants. Cassandra must decide if she can forget the man of her heart and learn to love the man offering her a future.
As she struggles with her feelings, Cassandra is faced with the possibility that Frederick’s death might have been greatly exaggerated. If that is true, will Emerson be willing to let her go?
It’s available now at The Wild Rose Press. Read an excerpt on my website.
Q: When did you first start writing, and what inspired you?
I feel as if I’ve always been writing ever since I was a young girl. In fact, I used to write fun little stories for my younger brothers and sisters. (I’m the oldest of five.) I have a folder full of great stories I started throughout my junior high and teen years. In college, I was a history major and so my focus shifted to my non-fiction writing. In fact, I actually won some awards for my historical scholarship. Then I started teaching and there was no time for writing. When we moved to NC and I became a stay at home mom with a baby and a 2nd grader, I decided I needed something more. I started to write again and within the first year, I had a book contract.
Q: Do you have any writing rituals?
Not really. I have a loud and busy household, so I have to work through the noise. I have to take whatever moments of time I have to write a little. In a perfect world, I sit at my desk with some inspiring music playing and write for several hours straight. But that doesn’t happen often.
Q: What's your writing schedule like?
When I’m on schedule, I write 2 nights a week without interruption (thanks to my hubby), a few hours on the weekend and whenever I can throughout the day. My mornings are busy with the boys, schooling, and household chores. In the afternoons, I try to get them set up with a project, reading, or a movie and I get a little writing done.
Q: What books are you reading right now for pleasure?
North & South by Elizabeth Gaskell (classic) This is favorite of mine. I try to read several classics a year.
Wizard of EarthSea (fantasy) by Ursula K. Le Guin
Masked by Moonlight (Historical Inspirational romance) by Allie Pleiter
Q: Who's your favorite author and why?
Without a doubt—Jane Austen. She’s been a favorite since I first read Pride and Prejudice as a twelve year old girl. Through the years I’ve come to appreciate and love her writing. Miss Austen had a special gift, a talent if you will, not just in writing but in knowing people. Think about it. Here is this prim and proper (though some would argue this point) Regency-era woman, unmarried, and coming from the middle of the social pool—and she has this uncanny ability to write the most terrific characters. She wrote characters to hate, laugh at, and fall in love with. Some of the other greats of classic literature also had this remarkable ability—Dickens, for instance, and Shakespeare. Think of their casts of characters that once read, will never be forgotten.
My favorite book from Austen is actually Persuasion. This is a second-chance love story, which is my very favorite kind. Throughout the entire book, these two characters are still in love with each other and the tension continues to build and build that they should be together. It is so romantic when the hero, Captain Wentworth, writes a letter to his lady love, Anne Elliot. “I must speak to you by such means as are within my reach. You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope. Tell me not that I am too late, that such precious feelings are gone forever.” It just gives me chills every time.
Q: What historical figure is your hero or heroine?
I love John and Abigail Adams. First of all, they were just a terrific couple. Both smart and caring for each other and the nation. Their letters to each other over the years are just heartwarming. They truly were in love, and they sacrificed so much for their country. They suffered great separations from each other, but always remained faithful. They were great patriots. Abigail should have been in Congress. Seriously! They were perfectly matched for each other. Abigail was John’s helpmate in so many ways at a time when he (and this nation) really needed one. A great pair and an inspiration to us all.
Q: What's your idea of a perfect man?
Oh Lord! Does one exist?? LOL! I love a Gamma man. Forget those overbearing Alphas and give me a Gamma. I love a man who can laugh and make me laugh. I love a smart, intelligent man, too. Put those two together and I’m lost. The great thing about a Gamma is that he can be sensitive and strong. He can exhibit the good characteristics of the Alpha and the Beta. I love a thoughtful man. One who surprises me on my birthday. Who brings me flowers for no other reason than "just because." A man who knows I need a break from the kids and sends me off on a girl’s night with my sisters. And honestly, that really is my husband. You gotta love him.
Q: What's your image of an ideal date with your perfect man?
Dinner at an expensive, dark and quiet restaurant. I love to dress up once in awhile. Then, off to the theater to see a show. Musical theater is my favorite, but I like the ballet, too. Afterward, some dessert and a walk outside with lots of time to talk and relax. Then, back to a bed and breakfast for the night.
Q: Can you give us a hint of what story you're working on next?
I am working on the sequel to Dilemma of the Heart. It’s called Emancipation of the Heart. I took the antagonist from Dilemma and made him the hero in the sequel. He was more the misunderstood type more than the dastardly villain. Though, he is all Alpha male for sure. This one is set entirely in Philadelphia in 1865 and I had to recreate the whole social set of that era. It really does feel like a Victorian-era novel.
Q: And finally, is there anything else you'd like to tell my blog readers?
Come by my website: Cindy Green to read more about me and my books. I also blog at Cindy's Musings. Join my newsletter. Not only will you get my news and an opportunity to join into subscriber-only contests, but I send out book recommendations and I have a quarterly Free Read serial story called "Valentine’s Challenge." In fact, if you send me an e-mail right now at newsletters@cindykgreen.com, I will send you all three parts of the story, along with the most recent newsletter.
Thanks for having me today!
Cindy
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