Alvor

You've written a book, now what?

2012-01-30T09:27:00.002-07:00

It's the topic of the last panel I will be discussing at the LTUE Feb. 11.

And it's a relevant topic for me, personally.

Only, if I were to revise that sentence to include all my writing situations right now, it would sound something like this...

You've written three books that aren't yet published, you've lost your agent, you've got a full manuscript out with an agent AND an editor.... now what?

Now what indeed.

What I'm actually doing is slowly writing another book. I say slowly because I've never gone at such a pathetic pace before. Instead of writing like wildfire ready to devour the forest, I'm sort of picking away at it one page at a time.

It may or may not end up being a great story. I'm not sure. I just know that in the middle of all this waiting, I just haven't had the same urge to write.

And I feel like I have the last book of the Alvor series looming over me. I want to write it, but I'm not entirely convinced my publisher will step up to the plate like I need them to. I know, for some of you that seems like a lame excuse. For others, you may not know what I'm talking about. Since this isn't my complain blog, I won't get into it. But it's the conflict that has kept me from writing that last book.

So now what? I'd say in terms of furthering my career, I've sort of done what I need to. Waiting is part of the book industry, after all. Probably the worst part.

If I could give myself advice, I'd say, "Keep writing, Laura. Sooner or later you'll either have an answer, or another book on your hands. And whether you land an agent this time, or secure a contract with a publisher and then land an agent, the best thing you can do today is write. It's the only thing you have control over."

Today. It really is the only thing we can do anything about.

I know I didn't answer the big question- You've written a book, now what?

The short answer to that is: edit like crazy, write a killer query letter, send it out to agents or publishers and then cross your fingers and hope. And wait. And while you're waiting, write something. It's a vicious cycle. Write-send it out- wait- write.

LTUE, baby

2012-01-20T10:07:00.002-07:00

It's almost here. And I get to go this year. I Can't Wait!

The LTUE is one of my favorite writer conferences. Quick catch up for those who don't know...

Life, The Universe & Everything
The Marion K. "Doc" Smith Symposium on Science Fiction and Fantasy

February 9-12, 2012
Cost: $30 Students Free with Current ID

Utah Valley University

And here are some of the stars you'll get to meet...

James A. Owen

(“Starchild” and “Here There Be Dragons”)

Special Guests:

Writing Excuses Podcast Team:

Chris Schoebinger

Acquisitions Editor for Shadow Mountain.

Featured Guests:

Larry Correia

James Dashner

David Farland (Saturday only)

Tracy & Laura Hickman (Saturday only)

L.E. Modesitt, Jr. (Saturday only)

Brandon Mull (Saturday only)

Are you starting to see why I love this conference? It's simply a blast. I guess that's really why it's one of my favorites. This is the conference where writers become friends. Authors have conversations. There's hardly any pressure (no pitches to national editors or agents) and it's just a bunch of great information from people who know the business.

I know I'm not the only one who knows this, but I'll let you in on the secret to this conference.... yes be good and go to classes- but also SKIP some classes too. I know. It sounds counter-intuitive, but it's the key. Plan on what classes will make you happy, and then plan on some blocks of time outside of the rooms. This is how you get to have conversations. Or think. Or write. But at the end of the conference, if you do this, you'll end up with new friends.

Friends that will be in the writing industry for a good long time, and if that's where you plan on being, it's good to have some friends there.

Go if you can. It's the cheapest conference, and there is so much to learn. The panels are awesome, and there are plenty of editors there to keep things real. Tons of authors too.

So excited.

"It's a mind game."

2012-01-13T09:01:00.006-07:00

Here we are, in the middle of January. I thought for sure I'd have something amazing to say by now. Hmm. I guess not.

So here's a little twist to mix things up. I'm a dancer and a writer- what if those worlds collided?

From this month's issue of Dancespirit, I give you YOUR TOP 10 COMPETITION FEARS, Everything you worry about on Comp day- and how to deal. And geniusly changed to fit the world of a writer...

Fear #1- the nemesis move-

In dance, this is that one trick that makes your dance pop, but what if you miss it?
In writing, this is that one streak of pure perfectness in your story line that makes every reader in your target audience want your book.

The fix: "Now is the time to trust your training." If you don't hit it this time, you will next time. Keep breathing and practice, practice practice.

Fear # 2 -costume malfunction-

I think it's safe to skip this one in the writing world.

The fix: You know, just in case you're a dancer...uhm, dress rehearsal, body glue, sticky tape, and just leave your hat on the floor should it fall off. I'm guessing you really didn't want to hear all of that.

Fear #3- Forgetting to pack something

In dance, we're talking dance bag. There is nothing worse than arriving without an essential item.

In writing, this is each scene. Does it have enough in it to make it shocked with emotion and movement? Or do you have a dead chapter?

The fix: In dance, "make a list and check it a million times". In writing, read your chapters objectively and ask yourself why anyone else would want to read it.

Fear #4- Blanking Onstage (AKA Deer in the Headlights)

In dance- nuf said.

In writing, blanking on the story. The "I've got nothing" scenario.

The fix: "Any performance-related opportunity builds confidence and decreases the chances that you're going to freeze onstage." Actually, I believe this 100%. In writing, if you're really stuck, ask people leading questions. For example, last night I asked someone what could go wrong if you're riding a horse. The list I was handed was full of possibilities that I hadn't considered. Let the story simmer if you have to, but also get back to your computer and keep trying.

We're going to skip the next few...#5 losing a team member at the last minute, #6 dealing with unpredictable props, #7 Unpredictable stages, #8 the quick change and #9 Letting the team down

Having said that, I can personally tell you that these are all valid fears that my dancers face at shows and competitions on a regular basis. Sometimes it makes you feel better when you realize that you're not the only one. But I like this quote, "Don't be mean to the girl who messes up, because the next time it might be you."

That said, we come to...

Fear #10 Getting psyched out by your competition

The fix: Do it for yourself, not for them. "But if you do choose to check out the others, make the experience a positive one, not a scary one. Try to get inspired."

Bits and Pieces

2012-01-04T09:38:00.002-07:00

The last month has been a whole bunch of madness with a sprinkle of this and that. And now that we are officially in twenty twelve, I'm trying to find that sense of normal I used to know.

But here are the pieces I do have.

*Did you know that if you pass the right things when taking your TCRG exam, it qualifies you for your TMRF? But, should you accept your TMRF, you would have to RE-TAKE all five exams to qualify for the TCRG. Uhhg. If you have no clue what I just said, consider yourself lucky and move on.

*A "D" is a passing grade at my son's high school. Hmmm. Not that I'm happy with a "D". I'm still going to be a mean mom and work endlessly for at least a "C". Yes, I called the school just to make sure it was really true. Who knew? Okay, don't answer that. I was one of those kids who never got a C from 7th grade on.

*I'm in the mood to edit. Weird. Really weird. Because I'm supposed to be in the mood to write (which I'm still doing). But I'd rather be editing. Is this some rare disease?

*Thank goodness it's twenty twelve. I'm so ready for a brand new year.

*I've been getting a lot of e-mails asking for the third book. Is that kind of pressure a good enough reason? I'll probably fold and write it after I get done with the book I'm writing right now.

*Working with free weights has improved my posture. I know this sounds really random, but I'm here to tell you that seven months of working with free weights has not caused me to lose weight, look like a model or give me to-die-for parts of my body. But it has improved my posture, and the awareness of my posture, especially when I'm dancing. Just thought I'd throw that out there for you.

*"See that mountain over there? One of these days, I'm gonna climb that mountain." From an old country song I clogged to when I was a kid. It's true though. The figurative mountains- one of these days I'm going to get to the top of them.

*"Believe in yourself and then live so as to reach your possibilities." Thomas S. Monson This is my motto for the new year. It's hard to top those words.

Here's to New

2011-12-30T10:41:00.004-07:00

I thought about doing a reflective post about 2011, but honestly, all I really have to say is stuff that happened in my life. Not only is it not-so-inspirational, it just wouldn't apply to most people. All that reflective stuff is something that will end up where only I can read it and weep.

Instead of focusing on the past, I decided to look to the future. The unwritten pages of the new year. Now that is exciting.

And every single person in the world has the same thing to look forward to.

A couple years ago I bought a bracelet for myself, one that I wear virtually everyday. I bought it for two reasons.

First, it doesn't stop giving encouragement.

And second, I believe that if you think positive things everyday, it helps.

Here are the words I think of everyday.

"Love Life, Be Brave" "Smile" "Laugh" "Sing" "Play!" "Dream" "Dare to be different"

"Wish" "Dream Big" "Be the Change you Wish to See" "Shine" "Love" "Choose the Moment"

So what are my new year's resolutions? Other than a couple things on my list, they are the same ones I've had for two years. It's all the little quotes on my bracelet reminding me what my life should be like.

It doesn't stop a bad day in its tracks, but even through hard times, it helps me to know that I've really given these things my best shot. I've tried to live up to those words. I've dreamed so big that I was sure I could never even begin to climb the mountain. Even when I've failed, at least I know I tried. And more, I know so much more about that mountain that I'm still going to climb it.

"Be the change you wish to see" This one is harder. Try it.

"Choose the moment"

There are so many. My bracelet seems to have better advice than anything I could come up with.

But when I slip that silver on my wrist, I feel like I'm re-committing. It's like I'm reminded of my new year resolutions every day.

"Love life. Be brave." Loving life may well be a learned behavior. A daily choice. To love life in spite of itself. That's where being brave comes in. Being brave enough to look hardship in the eyes and head straight through it with a smile.

So here's to your new year's resolutions. May you have some, however simple they may seem. More courage. More commitment. More determination. More integrity in doing those things you set out to do.

Words can be cheap, or they can be so valuable they change your life forever. It's what you make of them.

Transcendent- a new paranormal book

2011-12-22T05:00:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for bite size pieces of YA yumminess? Try this one. Its' like an assortment of chocolates waiting to be tasted. Each story is it's own tale with flavors so different you'll be wanting to take a bite out of everyone.

For more information on this book and the wonderful writers behind it, go to this blog. They're doing a blog tour with some cool things, so go check it out.

Whether you like a ghost story, a fantasy or a little romance, this book really does have it all.

Silver Bells and Silver Linings

2011-12-20T14:19:00.003-07:00

Okay, I'll admit it. It's been a tough month. It isn't going out with some miraculous bang, either, more like an explosive one. It won't be hard to say goodbye to 2011.

But in the midst of trials, I've found out a few things.

First, even when you're having a pretty bad day, you can still handle another blow. You may not like it, but you can handle it.

Second, just because nothing makes sense, doesn't mean that everything is without a reason. It just sometimes takes us a while to see the bigger picture.

Third, good things pop up at the most unexpected moments in the least expected ways. Cherish them. Sometimes noticing the good things helps you deal with the hard things.

Fourth, yes, there is such a thing as a silver lining. I know I don't see it most of the time, but it's there. In fact, when I do finally notice it, it's so amazing that it makes me wonder how I could have been so blind not to have seen it sooner.

So although there are not likely any amazing miracles on the horizon for me, I'm happy. As happy as I decide to be. That's the one thing I can control.

And it's such a good time of the year to decide that.

Celebrating Failure

2011-12-13T09:46:00.003-07:00

Once again, I'm dropped into the deep pool of failure and I'm learning to swim all over again.

The failure... unsuccessful on my TCRG exams... meaning I have not a clue what I passed and what I didn't, or whether I can take just one or two parts over or if I would have to retake the whole thing.

The swimming...

Did I learn anything? Definitely

Am I a better person for having gone through this year? Probably

Will someone please come put me out of my misery? Not likely

Okay, it's more like treading to keep from drowning. I know I'll formulate some kind of plan and figure out how to live with me and all my inadequacies. I mean, it's not like this is the first time I have failed, even this year.

In fact, I'm so experienced in failure that I should be able to teach a class on it.

But the thing that I can't ignore is the fact that I can only fail when I try something hard. If it were easy, I would always succeed.

So why do I keep putting myself in precarious situations that leave the door wide open to another failure?

Because I want more. I'm never going to be satisfied sitting in my own mediocrity (definition... moderate to inferior in quality; ordinary). Wait, isn't that what all my failures are trying to prove? That I am the definition of mediocre?

Maybe. I guess I'm rebellious.

So world, I give you proof that I'm trying to be better, even if I'm still not there. Failure is proof that I tried.

For how to handle success, please find someone who knows more about it. I don't happen to be an expert in that field. We don't have a happy dance at our house. Or a this-is-what-we-do-when-things-go-insanely-right tradition. It seems like we spend most of our time figuring out how to get over the next hurdle.

A Better Attitude

2011-12-07T11:08:00.003-07:00

I've lost a lot of sleep worrying about things- all things I can't control, but can't stop worrying about.

And then I've seen others with hearts of gold and know that they have worries too, but somehow balance it so well that the world would never know.

So thank you, to all who have been an inspiration to me lately. There are so many. Many who are thoughtful enough to share and honest enough to make it mean something.

I want to be more like you. I'm working on it. Worrying less and blessing more- like you.

It all starts with gratitude, I think. And I have so much to be grateful for. Everyday- and I know it. I just have to think about it more often. And think of all the things that go wrong less often.

It's not going to change all those things I'm worried about, but maybe it will change me, and in the end, that's all I can do anything about. So I'm going to try harder to look at the world differently. To see the good more than the bad and to realize that I can do something to make it even better.
Kind of like this picture- it's feels more real than the one where everyone's smiling perfectly- Life is tiring, but if you look closer, it's not hard to find things to love. I'm going to try harder to find those things.

The Twelve Days

2011-12-06T08:57:00.005-07:00

Ever been so busy that you don't know if you got anything done? That's been me lately.

When I think about what cool, exciting things I have to write about here, I come up blank. I mean, I'm busy, but let's face it, who would want to read about my life.

So, in the spirit of the holidays, I give you my real-life version of the twelve days of Christmas.

Clearing throat...

On the first day of Christmas, it was a surprise to me, the front gate fell apart literally.

On the second day of Christmas, it was a surprise to me, our newest microwave fried, and the front gate fell apart literally.

On the third day of Christmas, it was a surprise to me, the dryer wouldn't dry, our newest microwave fried, and the front gate fell apart literally.

On the fourth day of Christmas, it was a surprise to me, the washer suddenly died, the dryer wouldn't dry, our newest microwave fried, and the front gate fell apart literally.

On the fifth day of Christmas, it was a surprise to me, the ceiling finally got done!!! The washer suddenly died, the dryer wouldn't dry, our newest microwave fried, and the front gate fell apart literally.

On the sixth day of Christmas, it was a surprise to me, the other microwave door broke. The ceiling finally got done!!! The washer suddenly died, the dryer wouldn't dry, our newest microwave fried, and the front gate fell apart literally.

On the seventh day of Christmas, it was a surprise to me, we stayed up til 3 to fix the counter, the other microwave door broke. The ceiling finally got done!!! The washer suddenly died, the dryer wouldn't dry, our newest microwave fried, and the front gate fell apart literally.

On the eighth day of Christmas, it was a surprise to me, the kitchen faucet has no pressure, we stayed up til 3 to fix the counter, the other microwave door broke. The ceiling finally got done!!! The washer suddenly died, the dryer wouldn't dry, our newest microwave fried, and the front gate fell apart literally.

On the ninth day of Christmas, it was a surprise to me, we took a break fixing the house and bought a Christmas tree, the kitchen faucet has no pressure, we stayed up til 3 to fix the counter, the other microwave door broke. The ceiling finally got done!!! The washer suddenly died, the dryer wouldn't dry, our newest microwave fried, and the front gate fell apart literally.

On the tenth day of Christmas, it was a surprise to me, we got the new used washing machine repaired. We took a break fixing the house and bought a tree, the kitchen faucet has no pressure, we stayed up til 3 to fix the counter, the other microwave door broke. The ceiling finally got done!!! The washer suddenly died, the dryer wouldn't dry, our newest microwave fried, and the front gate fell apart literally.

On the eleventh day of Christmas, it was a surprise to me, another child with an abscessed tooth, we got the new used washing machine repaired, we took a break fixing the house and bought a tree, the kitchen faucet has no pressure, we stayed up til 3 to fix the counter, the other microwave door broke. The ceiling finally got done!!! The washer suddenly died, the dryer wouldn't dry, our newest microwave fried, and the front gate fell apart literally.

On the twelfth day of Christmas, it was a surprise to me, I love my new microwave, counter, and used dryer and washing machine and fixed gate, another child with an abscessed tooth, we got the new used washing machine repaired, we took a break fixing the house and bought a Christmas tree, the kitchen faucet has no pressure, we stayed up til 3 to fix the counter, the other microwave door broke. The ceiling finally got done!!! The washer suddenly died, the dryer wouldn't dry, our newest microwave fried, and the front gate fell apart literally.

Aaah, the holidays.

Register for the 2012 LDStorymakers Conference

2011-12-01T08:59:00.007-07:00

Today's the day you've been waiting for. Well, maybe not all of you, but some of you.

Today is the first day you can register for the coolest writers conference on the planet. Here's the link.
The conference is May 4-5.

2-Day Conference: $170
Friday-only Conference: $95
Saturday-only Conference: $75

Location:

The Provo Marriott Hotel
101 West 100 North · Provo, Utah 84601 USA

Registration

Registration for the 2012 LDStorymakers Writers Conference is now open. It will close April 3, 2012 or until we are full. IMPORTANT–attendance is capped at 450 participants each day, so register early.

And here's more cools stuff you need to know.

The Boot Camp is AWESOME. It's held May 3 and if you have a manuscript you would like some editing with, this experience is invaluable. Not only will you get personalized attention, you will learn a lot. This is often the most rewarding experience to conference attendees after the weekend is over.

If you have a manuscript you are ready to pitch, they have the agents and editors there for you. Sign up early for a pitch session. Trust me, they sell out so fast. Secret... you can get on a waiting list for a pitch session.

Here's our stellar list of agents and editors:

Weronika Janczuk

Molly O’Neill

Kathleen Ortiz

Holly Root

Michelle Wolfson

Besides all of that, I'm telling you, this conference is life-altering. You will not be the same person when you leave- you'll be smarter, more aware, deeper and clearer about the writing industry. And you'll meet other writers who you will never forget. Whether you're a beginner or a published author, this conference has everything.

Don't forget to check out the master classes designed to dig deep into the writing skill sets. There's so much here. And no, you don't have to be LDS to go. At all. This is a fabulous chance to hone your craft regardless of where you are in your writing. Don't miss it.

Still waiting...

2011-11-29T09:07:00.002-07:00

It's still November, but only barely. Thanks to all who nominated WINGS OF LIGHT for the Whitney award. It is now officially up for the 2011 books in the General Youth Fiction category.

Some people are waiting for Christmas. Some people are waiting for finals to be over, or for the holiday break. Some people are rushing to get everything done in the next four weeks.

And I'm... feeling very much in limbo. Waiting. Waiting for my TCRG exam results. Waiting to hear from the agent who was kind to me. Waiting to see if good things are on the horizon, or if I'm back to being the same girl I was this time last year.

I have lots of good things in my life, don't get me wrong. It's just that I've been working hard for specific things, and now all I can do is wait to see what happens next.

I know I need to get busy too. And I will. It's not like I'm not busy... I just feel like I'm waiting.

In the meantime, thank you all you wonderful people who have made each day brighter.

November observations

2011-11-22T10:22:00.003-07:00

It's been a different kind of November this year. Here's something I learned from my pool of author friends, and it seems to be true. Agents and publishers make decisions around Thanksgiving.

I'm not saying they don't make decisions all year round, but as writers, we sometimes get it in our heads that no one works in November and December. At all. Which simply isn't true.

I just heard from a fellow writer that her manuscript she submitted to a publisher nearly a year ago was accepted the other day. And another author reminded me that he signed with his agent a week before Thanksgiving. And another author recently signed with a big house last week. There are more stories than that, these are just a few.

I've been speculating as to why this is, and all I can come up with is National Novel Writing Month. As writers, we tend to view November as our sit-down-and-write-a-ton month. It's therapeutic- I mean, an excuse to write for hours on end is sort of like unlimited chocolate for a month. And it's professionally helpful- we get a good jump on a novel- or keep writing on that novel we've already started.

So where does that leave the book industry professionals? Good question. Here's where I jump to speculation. I would suggest that there are fewer queries in the month of November than any other month of the year. It's a guess, not a fact, but still something to consider.

And to support my theory of agents and editors having more time in November- I have received a handful of rejections from queries I sent out last April. Why November?

But more exciting by far, I was lucky enough to receive a full editorial letter from an agent with suggestions on how to make my book more marketable. Wow. I can't tell you what an honor that was. Even if she doesn't decide to sign me at the end of the process, I learned a lot. And after spending many hours with the piece, it is better for her efforts. That is priceless.

Of course, my heart nearly flattened when I read a rejection letter this morning- before I realized it wasn't from the same agent. Note to self- always read to the end of the form rejection letter so you know who it's from.

But still, it supports my theory that agents have a little more time in November. Here we are two days before Thanksgiving and I'm getting a rejection from a query sent last April (again). Oh yeah, I should mention that I stopped sending queries after April.

So instead of spending the month immersed in NaNoWriMo- I've done sort of a half and half. Half writing, half editing. And half dancing, half remodeling the front of our house and half housecleaning/laundry. Don't even bother mentioning my fraction skills. I've probably spent half the month helping my older boys with math homework too.

Are you taking November off of querying because you think it's a pointless month? My advice- if you're ready, go for it.

The Impossible Dream

2011-11-15T09:20:00.003-07:00

Have you nominated a book for the Whitney Awards? Click on over and do. It's easy, and it's something you can do to encourage authors of your choice.

Yes, Wings of Light is eligible, should you feel inclined to make my day.

I've been thinking about writing goals, and general book industry things. The goal of writing in general has never been something I had stress too much about. I love writing.

It's figuring out how to juggle the industry and what I'm going to focus on there that is a little more ominous.

Do I spend a lot of time promoting the book I have out right now and hope that somehow a few more people discover how awesome my series is? It is awesome. I feel good about the soundness of the Alvor series.

Or do I let the marketing flop have its way and look to the future as I write yet another book and get back on the big house publishing horse?

It's a tough one. I usually lean toward the latter. If there is one thing that is clear in my mind, it's where I want to end up in my writing career. Sure, I'm not there- but the goal is. And I'm stubborn enough to keep working toward that goal. Loyal enough to not sway from what I want. And stupid enough to think that it's possible.

Shrug. I'm a writer.

And the beauty of writing- it has no time limit. I never have to quit.

I guess that's the beauty of life. No matter what it is, we all have the choice to make goals and keep them. To make life worth more because we put more into it.

Maybe you're like me and have such lofty goals/dreams that they seem impossible to catch. It's okay. If you don't know what you want, you'll never get it.

I make imaginary people.

2011-11-08T14:14:00.002-07:00

Some have imaginary friends. I make imaginary lives.

Which sounds crazy.

I love it.

You guessed it. I've drunk the writing juice and I'm riding the wave again. I'm in love with my character. Love who she is and what's happening. I don't know how I survived seven months without writing. It's like going without chocolate.

The horror.

But now I'm thinking about my story. Wanting more time with it. Which is why this post is going to be short. I need to get back to writing.

And, note to all you writers out there, bring the cord of your netbook with you when you leave the house. Yes, even the dentist's office has a place to plug in, if you bring the CORD. Darn the dead battery anyway.

Oh, and my poor seven-year-old with an infected tooth that made half his face swell up. He had it pulled today. I was going to let him play a game on my computer before I realized it was dead. He's recovering. He's going to have a black eye from the infection- at least that's what the dentist said.

Sad.

Okay, enough rambing. Back to work!

It was a dark and stormy night...

2011-10-31T09:08:00.006-06:00

NaNoWriMo The best excuse out of the whole year to write starts tomorrow. Are you going to do it?

There are contests for people who write the most words. Support groups for people sprinting through a novel in a month.

Me? Uhm, I'm celebrating by actually getting my laptop and flashdrive out of hiding. If I can find my flashdrive. It's been SEVEN months since I last wrote.

I feel like I'm at an AA meeting. My name is Laura Bingham and I haven't worked on a novel for seven months.

Wait, I just found my pink flashdrive. (Why couldn't have been green?)

Now I want to plug it in and see if the story I started is still any good. Maybe I'll start over. It would be the perfect excuse...November starting tomorrow and all.

Then the question is, can I still write?

Yes, the seven month writing diet was painful. Necessary for studying for my TCRG exams, but agonizing all the same. And yes, it turns out this was a successful weight-loss strategy, not that I intended it to be, but as long as we're talking about diets...

But now that the diet is officially over, it's time to see if my brain still knows how to string a story. There's only one way to find out. I can't believe I'm nervous that I might have lost my touch. Maybe I wont' be any good at it any more. Writing might have been one of those flukes.

Even if it was, there's no way I could live without it. Bring on November. I'm ready.

The Day After

2011-10-24T09:56:00.003-06:00

Never before have I seen so many worn blue Ar Rinci Foirne books; clutched in front, opened and fervently studied, or sitting hopefully on the exam table before all items were required to be removed from the candidates' tables.

There was no need to present a badges labeling candidates for the October Vancouver TCRG exams. The nervous energy prior to the written exam would have kept any normal human out of the area. All of us standing there as if either impending doom or eternal glory awaited the outcome of what we were about to undertake.

The anxious air was thick.

I'll admit, sweat trickled down my spine.

Then off to the races. Two hours have never gone by so quickly. The intensity of answering each question felt so focused that by the end, I could not even remember what all of the questions were. Each one held my absolute attention and there was no room in my head for any other thoughts.

Then another half hour waiting in the hall for the next test.

My legs shook for a full ten minutes. I don't even know why, except that every ounce of me wanted to pass all of these tests and two hours of sheer focus must have taken its toll.

They played 19 set tunes twice while we wrote down their names, time and bars. This was the easy part of the night. Until I realized that one of my questions had been answered wrong and after scribbling my four different guesses, there was no more room on the space provided for my final answer. Hopefully the panel will have a magnifying glass to read what I wrote.

And then the days to follow were filled with dancing and studying. A little sleep and a quick bite in between, but not much else.

At the end of my last test, my panel leader told me I could go relax and enjoy the rest of my day. I could be happy. She told me I could be happy.

And where I thought I would be instantly filled with a rush of relief, I found that she was right, I did feel happy. Later as I flew over San Fransisco I found another feeling. Deep gratitude. So strong I could not do it justice in words. This is the feeling that has stayed with me since the end of my test.

My brain is still recovering from overdosing it with Irish dancing, but my heart is filled with gratitude. The whole experience taught me more than I could have ever projected. It changed me. And in spite of my flaws and weaknesses, I have no honest regrets. I came and gave what I could, and left with more than I had.

Stolen Inspiration

2011-10-17T14:10:00.002-06:00

Read it. Believe it. As far as I can tell, it's all true.

“What nobody tells people who are beginners — and I really wish someone had told this to me . . . is that all of us who do creative work, we get into it because we have good taste. But there is this gap. For the first couple years you make stuff, and it’s just not that good. It’s trying to be good, it has potential, but it’s not. But your taste, the thing that got you into the game, is still killer. And your taste is why your work disappoints you. A lot of people never get past this phase. They quit. Most people I know who do interesting, creative work went through years of this. We know our work doesn’t have this special thing that we want it to have. We all go through this. And if you are just starting out or you are still in this phase, you gotta know it’s normal and the most important thing you can do is do a lot of work. Put yourself on a deadline so that every week you will finish one story. It is only by going through a volume of work that you will close that gap, and your work will be as good as your ambitions. And I took longer to figure out how to do this than anyone I’ve ever met. It’s gonna take awhile. It’s normal to take awhile. You’ve just gotta fight your way through.”

Alias

2011-10-07T23:47:00.003-06:00

Check out a new book- there are so many out there right now that I'm excited about. Here's a new one.

ALIAS by Mandi Slack

Hop on over to her blog.

She's doing a virtual tour all month.

Wings of Light up for grabs

2011-10-06T13:07:00.004-06:00

MMmmmm, I'll take that one....

If I could pick any kind of cake in the world, you should know it would be a Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake. Is there anything closer to heaven? (Don't answer that. I'm still dreaming of Godiva chocolate cheesecake.) Of course, we're pretending that this gorgeous cake is said cheesecake that I will never be cured of.

The best part about it being my birthday is that I get to share it. I love sharing my birthday! My kids love it too. Funny how that works... But I can't think of a better way of spending my birthday than making the people around me happier.

So, although I would go completely broke if I tried to give EVERYONE something, I'm going to give you a chance to win a copy of WINGS OF LIGHT.

All you have to do is leave a comment and tell me what your to-die-for-dream-birthday cake would be.

And tell me your e-mail address so I can get a hold of you.

Contest ends Saturday, as in October 8. Love you all! Hope you have a beautiful day.

Almost There...

2011-10-05T09:36:00.005-06:00

I'm freaking out. I am taking the biggest test of my life in two weeks. TWO WEEKS!!!!! AAAAaaaahhhhh. I've studied my brain out and I think it's melted into puddles and the steam is leaking out of my ears.

Am I going to remember anything?

I seriously need a miracle. Sort of counting on one. I'm planning on studying until the very last second, but will it be enough?

Oh yeah, and I'm turning older tomorrow and that really can't help my odds. They say one year older and wiser too, but I'm sort of thinking- one year older and more forgetful. Maybe being forgetful makes you wiser. Hmmm, there could be some correlation.

And dancing. Oh the dancing. I need one FABULOUS day. Just one day of doing what I know how to do without messing it all up. So many dances- I just need to be my very best for a few hours.

Okay, I'm done ranting publicly. I'll save my freaking-out session for loved ones and strangers on the street.

Meanwhile, if you live around here- COME to my book launch next Friday from 7-9 PM at my studio (2840 Wildwood St., Boise 83713). It's just a bit of fun. Bring the kids.

And the best part of today- my older sister's birthday. Happy birthday Tonia! It's always nice to know that someone will always be older than me. It makes me feel young. Ha ha... Good thing you never come to my blog! ;)

Book Launch Party!

2011-09-28T09:19:00.004-06:00

I had one of those weird dreams last night that carried over to my waking thoughts. Someone wanted to buy a book from me, but when I went to grab one, there wasn't any there. Instead, I found boxes and boxes of other people's books.

Uhmmm.

So I went to my "box of books" and found four copies of Alvor and no copies of Wings of Light. What? Upon further investigation, I found three copies of Wings of Light on my bookshelf.

And then I got to thinking... I never really had a proper book launch when Wings of Light came out. Sure, we splattered things all over the internet, but we missed any kind of hands-on experience.

So here's what I decided to do.

Book Launch party- at my studio (2840 Wildwood St., Boise, Idaho 83713) October 14 from 7-9 PM. We'll have food, music and something fun for kids to do. This is a chance to hang out, chat, meet people, and if you haven't already bought a copy, we'll have Alvor and Wings of Light for sale at a super price.

And if you do already have a copy, come anyway. I mean, if you live around here. It's a party.

In the meantime, I'm scheduled to do book signings at Book Nook- 705 12th Ave Road, Nampa, Idaho this Friday from 1-3 and Saturday from 12-2. Then I'm hopping over to Crowley's 1485 Poleline Rd. E. #139 Twin Falls, Idaho from 6-8 PM on Saturday as well. If you live close to those stores, drop in and say Hi!

Oh, you mean me?

2011-09-25T13:34:00.006-06:00

I spent most of the week in San Diego at the bay.

First impression:

It's so cold! I thought I was staying at the beach. I thought this was California with sand, sun and waves. What gives?

Second impression:

Look at the diversity of the downtown area. Cool outdoor mall. I love the bay. I love to see the ships, boats and yachts. Look at the pelicans, herons and egrets. Can you believe how amazing these ships are? The Midway is incredible. I can see why someone could spend everyday watching the water.

Last impression:

I'm going to miss the bay. The boardwalk. The cute little shops, the beautiful walk along the water and the diversity of people and things.

I know the road to where I want to be looks a lot like the first picture, and sounds a lot like my impressions of San Diego Bay. It's not "all that" all the time. It's probably going to take some twisting turns, a walk through downtown with a group of people dressed in black giving away free hugs and seeing how many homeless there are before I see how much more there is.

But even when I didn't see it, it was there. I just had to see it through a different set of eyes. I had to experience it to know.

Yes, we'll jump on the writing business and tell the same story. The more I write and read, the more I see the whole industry through new eyes. And yes, I still believe that in the end, I'll see the it, like the bay, for what it really is- a marvel of new and old, nature and man's creation all working together to be a thing of beauty.

Now

2011-09-16T09:09:00.006-06:00

It was my first time in Manhattan. The top two pictures were taken last month.

It's hard to explain why seeing the Freedom Tower filled me with such hope. As I looked up at the skyline of buildings, I saw what people were able to build out of devastation.

If you didn't know the horror that had happened only ten years previously, you would have never guessed it standing on the sidewalk and looking up at this tall building that defies the crushing events of 9/11. Defies, or defines.

We don't give up. It's an American trait.

The picture below shows what the Freedom tower will look like after completion. If you look at how it compares with the building next to it, the whole things comes into perspective. That's not exactly a short skyscraper standing beside it.

I have to be honest, I stood there looking at the Freedom Tower and couldn't even imagine it being twice again as tall as it already was. Amazing.

I didn't know anyone that lost their life that day. And yet, I can say with all sincerity of my heart that the event affected me deeply. We're all one nation, under God, indivisible. And when a piece is torn from our land, we all feel it. We all cry. We all mourn the loss of lives and find a deep respect for those heroes who stepped up to do what they could- heroes who are still stepping up to the call.

But out of the ashes, I see a nation who's hope is brighter than the darkness. A nation that is willing to fight against evil. And I know that it's a world I can send my children into. A nation that has enough good to keep believing.

Reading when I should be doing...

2011-09-12T10:05:00.005-06:00

Ordered clogging shoes...check
Choreographed five different dances...in progress
Picked out costumes for this year...in progress
Ready for my Irish Exams...I wish
Miss writing like crazy...check

It must be fall. That time of year when reading a book is a guilty pleasure. Which explains why I've had a couple people ask me to review their books in the next couple weeks.

I'm seeing this as a mandatory distraction. This must be a good thing.

Hmmm, speaking of good things... I am reading a book that is really good. And like my fourteen-year-old told me last night, I don't usually say that about the books I'm reading. This one is a lucky draw- sort of a chance finding. I picked it up, bought it, never heard of it, and Bang, this thing is awesome.

UNEARTHLY by Cynthia Hand

I told myself I was over the well-worn concept of angels in paranormal stories. Vampires and werewolves too, to be honest. but Cynthia proves that it's not the tool, but the story, voice and writing that makes the novel so good. You don't always have to invent the wheel- just make a really cool new one.

I almost read the whole thing yesterday. Just like that.

When I should really be focusing on all the stuff I started listing at the top.

But what's life without a little distraction? I never regret reading a good book.

Three agents and an editor...

2011-09-08T10:04:00.003-06:00

We're already getting things set up for the 2012 LDStorymakers Conference. So far we've got Michelle Wolfson, Kathleen Ortiz and Holly Root as well as Molly O'Neil from HarperCollin.

Are you excited yet? I so am.

I love working with these people. I've learned so much over the last year and a half by getting to be involved in this side of things.

And, I've learned how very sweet most everyone in the book industry really is. People, in spite of the rejections you are surely getting (if you're submitting) it isn't because they're vindictive.

They're just professionals trying their best to do their job- to sell books.

The good news is that agents and editors are so great to work with so when you finally find the right one for your work, it's usually a good experience from there out.

We won't get into edits and how you might feel about those today. I'm on the love-editing side of the fence anyway.

For those of you who like to plan ahead, the LDStorymakers conference will be at the Marriott Hotel in Provo may 4-5. Hope to see you there!

The Little Things

2011-09-06T08:56:00.003-06:00

A couple weeks ago, I was staying in Pennsylvania- and besides the usual splendor, I found all sorts of tiny miracles.

This was one of them. It hardly seems real that a gorgeous black and blue butterfly would let me pick it up, but it did.

And then it let me hold it for almost a minute.

I've always believed that if you catch a butterfly in the wild and let it go, it's better than any star you could wish upon. And I made a wish. Okay, you caught me, I made more than one. I always do.
I know it's silly- or superstitious. And really- like my little girl always says- "Dreams don't come true- I always dream I can fly."

But there is something significant about knowing what you want deep down in your heart. That dream, or wish is a way of acknowledging hope. Faith. And ultimately means work.

If you're like me, you've always worked for it, but it doesn't hurt to catch a butterfly.

And whether I have a good reason or not, I still wake up some mornings and believe that anything is possible. I don't know when, or how, but I know it is.

Let them eat cake

2011-09-01T09:17:00.003-06:00

"Failure is the reward for those who try." Me- last night after baking a cake for my dad the DAY AFTER his birthday.

And here's my kids and my sister's kids right before we eat said cake WITHOUT my dad- because he's going to be gone too late for a school night.

Yeap. My special brand of brilliance.

Don't worry, we gave him the half-eaten cake later, even though I wasn't there to see his confused expression.

Just for the record, I was going off my grandma's calendar (in Pennsylvania). I spent the a week looking at his birthday written on the wrong day on her calendar- not that I would have suspected it. She is his mother. She would know when his birthday is... right? I guess we all make mistakes.

But do I really believe in the motto that failure is the reward for those who try? Absolutely. Anyone who tells you different probably doesn't live in the real world. I can't think of a single successful person in history who didn't experience failure.

The important thing is that failure is not the ONLY reward for trying. Eventually you might even reach your dreams.

So was it worth making the cake a day late, even though I never got to see my dad? Yes.

I appreciated the comment someone left on my last post.

"I figure if I keep writing (umm, and submitting), eventually the pieces will fall together. Either that, or I'm going to be ninety-something and still sending out queries." MKHutchins

I feel the same way. Truly. Sadly, maybe, but exactly to be sure.

Not only in life, but in writing. Failure is inevitable. Once you get over that fact, there really is nothing holding you back. If the worst thing that can happen is you fail, and you know that failure is part of the process, then at the very least, or at the very base of every goal, we have nothing truly to lose- and everything to gain.

My nutshell

2011-08-29T10:15:00.002-06:00

To all writers, aspiring or otherwise...

My writing history in a nutshell-

Wrote first book. Sold it immediately to a small press. It went into a bunch of stores and with the help of over 50 book signings and tons of school visits, sold thousands.

Wrote more books.

Got an agent.

Rejected a few times from publishers, but in the meantime sold second book of series to the same small press at agent's advice.

Said book was not given a chance. It made it into almost no stores. Four months later, it's only sold a few hundred copies.

Agent decided YA wasn't her thing. Told me to find a new agent.

In the meantime, wrote another book that agent said she loved.

More rejections. Lots more.

Now studying for my TCRG exams and not writing at all. Could only focus on one big thing at a time.

Miss writing. So much. Fantasize about writing my next novel. Dread the next slew of rejections.

Wondering if I'm crazy for not giving up.

But insane enough to know that rejections will never win. I am too addicted to writing. Even when I fail.

But I want to succeed. Badly. Bad enough to write better. To face the future.

Because I'm convinced that one of these days I will get there. Even though I have no proof.

The last drops of summer

2011-08-26T10:19:00.003-06:00

I'm reading the ARC for THE DEATH CURE by James Dashner. It doesn't stop moving. Kind of like my week.

Which explains why I haven't finished it yet.

Soon though.

Okay, I need to send you all over to the Lateiner Gang Book Review Spot so you can sign up to win a copy of Alvor or Wings of Light. Dave talked me into giving away four books, but I'm not going to do it unless we get a bunch of people over there.

And while we're at it, if you leave a comment here, I'll give you an entry to their giveaway. Simple. You have to visit their blog for more entries.

Coming soon, second grade for my twins, fifth grade for my son, High School for my oldest guy and preschool for the baby girl of the family. I know we're starting later than usual, but I'm barely keeping up. I guess that's what happens if you leave town in August. Doh.

We have sacks of school supplies waiting for their new classrooms and this morning my kids are going through their entire wardrobes sorting out what still fits. School is in the air. It's the early mornings that we're going to have to get used to.

So, tell me what your favorite part of this time of year is!

Testing... Testing...

2011-08-24T12:06:00.003-06:00

I'm back. I nearly fell off the internet planet for a couple weeks, but I've landed smack dab on earth again and my list of things to do has become significant.

To spare you a travel-log, it sufficeth to say that New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania were in my recent past and not only did I learn valuable driving tips, how not to land a penny on Ben Franklin's grave and other life skills, I found a side of Pennsylvania that I've only hoped existed.

They really do have enormous butterflies constantly visiting the flowers just outside the window... just like my story Alvor. Who knew? It was amazing.

And now that I'm back in Idaho, I'm looking forward to the adventure of school, studying for my Irish exams, and most delectably, WRITING. Oh how I miss it. I've put myself on a writing diet so I could focus on studying.

Where I thought the fire would extinguish and I would finally realize that deep down inside I've only pretended to be an author- the opposite has happened. I've seen more clearly what my next book needs. I see my career from a different perspective. I know I'll write another story and I've got a better idea of what needs to happen next.

So what am I saying? I hate to admit it, but taking a break from the pressure of succeeding has done me a lot of good. Instead of being stressed daily about whether my writing is good enough to see my dreams come true, I've been able to process what I need to do and how I'm going to do it.

And my writing advice to you? Well, I don't have any. This is the first REAL break I've taken from writing for four years. And my days are literally numbered. I know exactly when I'm going to get my manuscript back out and start again. Had it not been for something as huge as studying for my TCRG I would have never done it. But I'm glad I did.

Are you stressed to the point that it's taking over you life? Your every other thought? Maybe it's time for a break. Maybe. Just a short one. you never know where it will lead.

Free Writer's Conference- WriteOnCon

2011-08-08T09:24:00.004-06:00

If you love writing, want a chance to visit with editors, agents and authors, but don't want to pay a lot of money and spend time traveling, then check out WriteOnCon.

It's coming up August 16-18. The conference allows live online chats and question/answer sessions. The best part, besides that it's free, is that you can read all the info after the conference is over.

No matter what your schedule is, you don't have to miss this incredible opportunity.

Who is participating?

Agents include Michael Bourret, Mary Kole, Holly Root, Joanna Volpe, Natalie Fischer, Marietta Zacker, and Sara Megibow, Steven Malk, and many more people you’ll want to learn more about.

Authors and editors too.

It's an education you can get at home without the expensive registration fee.

Elana Johnson, author of POSSESSION helps run it. And I'm super excited. I will have the chance to get to know her better over the next year as we organize for the 2012 LDStorymkaers conference. Have you read her book? Do it. This is a tell-everyone-to-read it kind of story.

And speaking of cool author friends of mine, a big congratulations to Jeff Savage. He just landed a 3-book deal with Harper Collins for his Middle Grade series. Way to go Jeff!

And now a little plug from Jeff Savage about my newest book WINGS OF LIGHT (Oh, yes. You need this book)

“Warning: If elves, spells, dragon-riding, intrigue, mystery, danger, romance, and intercontinental pizza hopping are too much for your heart, you should NOT read this book. Otherwise, pick it up, take it to the cash register, pay for it through whatever means possible, take it home, lock the door (you won’t want any interruptions), and read it- NOW! Laura Bingham has penned another novel that fantasy readers of all ages will devour.” J. Scott Savage, author of Far World series

Dashner Does it Again

2011-08-06T10:50:00.003-06:00

My friends over at the Lateiner Gang Book Review Spot managed to get their hands on an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of The Death Cure. Which I think is totally awesome. Okay, yeah, a little jealous, but then I already know I'm going to buy this one. The end of The Maze Runner series. Action-packed stuff.

Dave's reading it right now and will be posting his review, so check his blog for that.

For those of you who have never met James Dashner, I'm going to tell you (again) what a great guy he is. Down to earth. Thinks he might look great in a Speedo on the beach, but, uh, no that image may forever be burned into my imagination. Ouch. I wish you would have never said that James.

And in case you haven't picked up on it, he does have a sense of humor too.

Check out the Maze Runner series if you haven't already. What's taken you so long? Oh yeah, and go read my books too.

A Winner, and other stuff

2011-08-05T09:45:00.004-06:00

Thanks for joining my evil scheme! We had more than 25 places called. Hopefully we'll see "Wings of Light" in more stores and libraries.

Thanks to Random.org, our winner of the $25 gift certificate was ChiChai Hana

Yesterday I had two different people tell me that they REALLY WANTED Book 3 of the series. I just smiled. What I was really thinking was, "If you want it so bad, go tell 25 people to read my book."

If you love a story, you should tell everyone. Write reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. Tell your friends that you loved a story and they should read it too. I am constantly making book recommendations- obviously other than my own book :)

People want to read what you liked. It saves them time. They don't have to sift through the hundreds of books in their favorite genre, they can go straight to the one that someone else liked.

And, people, I'll say this next part out loud... there's not going to be a third book unless I can sell a decent number of this one. Yeap. I have other things I'm working on. Things that have nothing at all to do with this series. YA novels, and one MG, but unless I see a demand for a third book in the Alvor series, I'm holding off.

It's not that I don't love those few people who have read "Wings of Light" and are asking for more. I do. But writing is a business too. Yes, it's an art, but at the end of the day, I have to do what's best business-wise.

So, how do we get the third and final book of the Alvor series into your hands? Get as many people to read/buy "Wings of Light" as we can. I need to sell a few thousand, not just a few hundred.

Otherwise, the next published book you'll see from me won't be an Alvor book. I have my sites set on other things. And I have to. I'm a writer, an artist, a mom and a full-time trying-to-do-it-all-whether-or-not-I-can lady. I want to make everyone happy, but sometimes I need a little help.

Books I've been reading

2011-08-04T09:57:00.002-06:00

It should come as no surprise that regardless of what else is happening in life, I manage to squeeze reading time into it. Sometimes, it's only a few minutes, but it all adds up to a book read after a while.

I usually have a thing about watching a movie before I've read the book. I always read it first. but in the case of "I am Number Four" I watched the movie...twice. Then read the book.

While I rarely review books, I'm thinking this one is so popular that it won't hurt. And I learned a few writing lessons along the way.

The movie made the characters more relate-able, real, and made me sympathetic for them. The book was a lot more cardboard in terms of character development.

The book had a lot more detail and a cooler turn of events when it came to the legacies and how they fought the battle in the end.

So where the author fell short, the movie people jumped in, and where the author had better stuff, the movie people cut it into bits.

My lesson: develop the characters. Give the readers a character that not only seems real, but that they can't help caring about.

Plot counts. While the characters make the book, the plot makes all the difference. Something cool needs to happen or we'll get tired of reading it and loose interest.

More books I'm reading/read lately.

The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan. Confession on this one... I drug my feet getting to this book because I thought it would be too much like all the other middle grade fantasies I've read. I was pleasantly surprised to have been proven wrong.

Illusions by Aprilynne Pike. Again, I was wary that she wouldn't be able to top her last book. Series can be hard to write, but I enjoyed the new elements and characters and felt she breathed fresh air into this book.

Possession by Elana Johnson. I just started reading this (I know, finally, but I've been saving it for dessert.) I was right. This book is dessert. I love the voice. Completely. Combined with the fast plot, so far, all I can do is think about this book when I'm not reading it. Seriously. You need this one.

Now it's your turn. And while I'm at it, check out Wings of Light.

It isn't over yet...

2011-08-02T14:50:00.002-06:00

Today's theme: It isn't over yet.

For those who haven't entered my Evil Scheme Giveaway there's still time. We have to have 25 to make the contest complete.

Also, due to an employee changeover in both the national and publicity marketing department from my publisher at the time of it's release, Wings of Light never saw the "light of day". It never found a home in a brick and mortar store.

But it's not over yet. With the help of some new marketing people, there's a pretty good chance we'll get to have Wings of Light get into Costco and Barnes & Noble. We'll probably have to start close to where I live, but there's still hope.

And that is to say, there is always still hope. No matter what happens in life - there is always hope. It isn't over yet. As long as a new day waits, a new opportunity is there. Disappointments strive to take over the day, but like my husband said last night, "I keep waiting for something to make your day." And I said, "Sometimes you have to make your own day."

I hope you're not giving up on what may seem like your impossible dreams. The fight to get there makes you stronger, and you will never be the same because of the battle.

Tristi Pinkston's newest book!

2011-07-31T00:00:00.000-06:00

Author Tristi Pinkston is excited to announce the release of the third novel in her Secret Sisters Mysteries series.

Titled Hang ‘em High, this novel takes place on a dude ranch in Montana. When Ida Mae’s son invites her to come for a visit, of course she brings Arlette and Tansy along with her. They are expecting to spend the week looking at horses, avoiding the cows, and making amends in Ida Mae’s relationship with her son. What they don’t expect is to be stuck on the ranch in the middle of a blizzard and to be thrust headlong into the middle of a mystery.

***

Help Tristi celebrate her new novel in two ways. First, come participate in the two-week-long blog contest, where you can win a book nearly every single day! All the details are up on Tristi’s blog.

Second, come to the book launch!

You are invited to an

August Authorama!

Saturday, August 13th

Pioneer Book, 858 S. State, Orem

12 – 4 pm

Games, prizes, balloons, face painting,

and Dutch oven cobbler

prepared by world champion cook

Keith Fisher.

Authors Tristi Pinkston, J. Lloyd Morgan, Cindy Hogan,

Nichole Giles, and Heather Justesen

will all be there to sign books.

This is one book launch event

you will not want to miss!

Check out this Giveaway!

2011-07-26T08:08:00.003-06:00

My friends over at the Lateiner Gang Book Review Spot have made a big splash. Hop on over to their blog for details on how you can win.

He talked me into giving away two sets of the Alvor series, so let's make it worth it!

And here's a bit of odd trivia. Wings of Light has sold more copies in New Jersey than any other state. And no, Dave Lateiner didn't even know that.

I am hoping to spread the word to more places. Check out the Evil Scheme to get points in helping me do this.

Yesterday Heather from Ireland got it in her local library. I was super excited to read that. Wings of Light not only visits Ireland, but a new spunky character in that story is from the Emerald Isle. Very cool. Thanks for helping Heather!

No matter where in the world you live, there is a good chance you can get this book into a library at the very least. My publisher works with an internationally recognized distributor. And thanks to the internet, no matter where in the world you live, you can enter our contests.

So, "Top o' the morn to you," and I can't wait to see where all of your help takes this story.

Join my evil marketing scheme...

2011-07-25T09:45:00.001-06:00

Just when I thought I would hang up my writing hat for a while as I work towards my Irish exams, I find myself working on marketing.

Remember that fabulous book you've been meaning to buy? You know, Wings of Light... Oh yeah, that one. Well, I'm trying to get it into some stores near you.

A little trick that you could do to help me in this quest...

Call your local bookstore or library and ask if they have Wings of Light by Laura Bingham. When they say no, or offer to special order it for you, just say, "That's okay, I'll just order it from Amazon," and then hang up.

Here's the carrot for you, leave a post saying that you did this and you will be entered to win a $25 Amazon gift card. For each store or library you call, you get one entry.

And, we'll only give away $25 if we get at least 25 stores or libraries called by August 6. We'll use Random.org to choose the winner.

Alright, get your phones out and let's do this thing. It takes people like you to make things work. Thanks for your help.

Six Seconds with my Son

2011-07-22T10:39:00.001-06:00

You'll probably have to click the video to see him- my blog cuts him off. But hey, what's six seconds. Sometimes it's the little things in life that make it worth remembering.

Hot summer nights are overrated

2011-07-12T09:49:00.004-06:00

"I was really hoping for a break, but instead, everything broke." - my husband last night

I don't know why, but it's starting to make me laugh.

Let's see... the AC went out just when summer kicked in.

Last night we discovered that someone used our credit card to buy $147.50 worth of products on itunes. Said credit card has been canceled- ten day wait for our new debit/credit card :(

And, just to top it off, this morning I find that my e-mail account has been hacked. A different one this time, and the hacker was a commercial. At least the police didn't show up at my house to see if I really was stuck in Europe somewhere like they did last time.

And just for fun, let's look at how this relates to the world of writing. Oh yeah, it sounds exactly like writing. Whether we're talking about obstacles for characters in your book or the obstacles you face in publishing, this is all sounding very familiar.

Have you ever read a book or watched a movie and it seems like so many bad things have happened that you really don't know how this character can go on? Well, I see it a lot. In fact, that is what makes books (or movies) so good. It's when they've painted themselves into the proverbial corner that I have to know how they get out.

In the writing industry, the same feelings of failure can apply. I know, there are the exceptions. I like to think of them as just that. Exceptions to the rule. But for a great number of people, rejection and disappointment is a part of the process that can't be avoided.

In those books and movies the main character does find a way out of the problem. Writers who don't give up will too.

It might not fix the air conditioning in the middle of July, but slushies and popsicles have never tasted so good.

Plan A on a Silver Platter

2011-07-05T10:27:00.002-06:00

If you want you Plan A to be served to you on the theoretical silver platter, then may I suggest a few things.

Plan B should be served on a gold platter and Plan C on a platinum one.

I've been thinking about how my "best laid plans of mice and men" have been working out for me over the last three years. Well, let's just say that NOTHING in writing has worked out exactly how I planned. Thus the "Mice and Men" theory. Ever read that book? It's a depressing tale of how making plans doesn't equal realizing them.

But I think that's pretty common in the writing world. And the fact is, there is a good chance you don't know what would be best for your career experience and growth. Maybe Plan B is better, and Plan C,D,E,F or Z is better yet.

Don't be afraid of it. The only element entirely in control of the author is the writing itself. What happens to it after that can be shaped, shifted and influence, but never completely controlled alone by the writer. It becomes a product of others.

I'm not saying you're off the hook once you've written your work and revised it to death, actually, it's the opposite. If you don't do everything in your power to push it into the world, I guarantee it will never get there. (Agents and editors don't knock on the door and ask non-famous writers for their latest manuscript.)

Wherever you are in your writing career, don't be afraid of change. Especially changing your mind. That winning book you wrote might be the ticket to get an agent, but then they never sale it. No worries. Write another one.

You published with a small press and you are doomed to stay small potatoes. Not to fear. You can write as many new books as you want and try your hand at the national market.

You lost your agent when she decided to go into retirement. Okay, this sounds a little familiar to me... Get back on the horse. If you can't sell your manuscript to another agent, yeap, you guessed it, write another novel.

And most importantly, don't give up. Giving up isn't a plan. Taking a break is a plan. Rethinking is a plan. Quitting is not.

I know how hard it is to see your dreams take on shapes so different than the ones you had in mind, but trust that the future is still there waiting for you. And that in it, your dreams still have a chance to come true, even if it is served on a different colored platter.

Winner Announcement

2011-07-01T08:10:00.002-06:00

Okay, okay... I know I said June 30- but that was before I knew I would be leaving town. I'm back now and finally have time to post our winners. Thanks to all who stopped by to leave a comment.

Without further ado, here are our lucky winners for today:

Winner of a copy of WINGS OF LIGHT van_pham

Winner of an electronic copy of THE BOOK BLOGGER'S COOKBOOK: Wicked Walker

Both winners were chosen using Random.org

When there are no words

2011-06-25T09:56:00.005-06:00

Do you see that look of adoration, even from my then four-month-old daughter? We all looked at him that way. And on the other side, nothing will change about that.

Things I learned from my grandpa...

*a little bit of humor goes a long way

*hard work pays off

*if you take care of things, they will take care of you

*blueberries are good any time, any day, and there are always more in the freezer in the cellar

*don't give up

*never stop learning

*the world is a beautiful place

I love you Grandpa. Thanks for giving me a glimpse of what beauty the world has to offer. Thanks for giving me your green eyes. And thanks for making me laugh. You may understand now better than ever how much you have meant to me all my life. You will always be in my heart.

Christy Dorrity's The Book Blogger's Cookbook

2011-06-23T06:00:00.002-06:00

Okay, here it is again! MMMmmm... what could be a better combination than delicious books and delectable recipes?

If you miss this one, I'm telling you, I warned you not to. Not only will you find recipes that even a kitchen-impaired individual such as myself can master, but every single book represented in her cookbook is a must-read. You can't go wrong with this.

So, to inspire you all to hop over to this site we have a couple of carrots to dangle.

First is her grand prize of a kindle. Mega awesomeness here.

And second, I'm giving away my first copy of WINGS OF LIGHT from this blog...wiping tears of joy...my latest baby... yes, I'm finally going to give a copy away.

And, one lucky winner will get a kindle copy of The Blogger's Cookbook. You can download this onto your PC if you don't have a kindle.

Rules for winning my book....

*be a follower
*leave a comment telling me your favorite summer food or recipe

Okay... We'll give this a week. The winner will be announced June 30 using random.org.

Meanwhile, you need to go sign up for that kindle and get your hands on a copy of this amazing cookbook.

Book Review from the Lateiner Gang

2011-06-15T09:50:00.002-06:00

How is it that an Idaho girl can end up with friends from New Jersey even thought she's never been there?

Books are amazing things.

Two years ago, Dave Lateiner walked into his local Barnes & Noble and walked out with a copy of Alvor. He read it, loved it, reviewed it, and the next thing I know I get an e-mail from him. But that wasn't all. He wanted to do an author interview.

I was kind of shocked that my book found its way into the hands of someone like him, but I've been so glad it did.

And here to share his magic touch with book reviews (ignore his grammar mistakes, he'll get those fixed later today when he has a little more time)....

I give you the Lateiner Gang.

He wants a popping water fountain installed in his backyard and a changing brooch that actually works. So do I.

But since I can't give anyone those things, I can offer some free books instead. And yes, this time we're giving away Alvor and Wings of Light. You'll have to hop over to his blog over the next week or so for the details.

Here is another giveaway for the series you should check out. Squeaky Clean Reads

The Blueberry Patch

2011-06-14T10:02:00.004-06:00

I suppose it should come as no surprise that my family has a variety of artistic tendencies. I mean, I had to get it from somewhere. It's just that I hadn't ever really stopped to think about it that way before.

My older sister is a film maker. She specializes in documentaries (and doesn't read fiction, nope, not even if her sister wrote it.)

She has been lucky enough to spend a lot of time in one of my favorite places in the whole world- my grandparents' house in Pennsylvania. They live in a little village tucked away in the mountains. It feels like a miracle every time I visit- fresh air, green everything for as far as you can see, and of course, the miracle of having my grandparents there.

My grandpa is a cancer survivor. He's had it several times. Now he has Parkinson's disease too. He's been through a lot, but it never could take away his sense of humor. I wish this video showed a little of that side of him, but you're just going to have to take my word for it on that one. When I'm there that my grandma and grandpa have me laughing every day.

My grandpa has a gift with plants. The video shows off that the most. My grandma is an angel, but it's harder to capture that on film.

And what does any of this have to do with writing?

Everything.

The last time I was in Pennsylvania, it practically broke my heart to have to go back home to Idaho. I wanted to take it with me. I wanted to be able to live in both places. And that is how my first book found a home. I could see the magic anytime just by writing it down and making it permanent. Alvor was born in a little village tucked away in the Pennsylvania hills. Erin and Bain live in my grandparent's house (with the addition of an imaginary basketball court).

If you've read Alvor, check out the house in the video. Take a look around the yard and you will see where the main characters live. It's amazing. And yes, I miss Pennsylvania so much. I wish wish wish I could go there again soon.

Till then, enjoy the virtual tour.

Books + Food = Yummy Read

2011-06-12T20:40:00.005-06:00

"Books you'll devour with recipes you can't put down."

Christy Dorrity has a brilliant eye for finding good books and a savvy skill at bringing the flavors to life. As she reviews her literary finds, she invents recipes that bring the foods of the story straight to your kitchen.

And it's amazing.

Super yummy.

Easy.

And I can't wait to taste the creations waiting in her recipe book.

The 2011 Book Blogger's Cookbook

Christy is having a two month blog tour you won't want to miss. And as the big bang giveaway at the end- a kindle is up for grabs. Oooh.... I want one!

Alvor and Wings of Light have recipes waiting for your taste buds- along with some other great novels....

Books were selected from the author’s book review blog and paired with delectable recipes like “Fairy Touched Calico Brownies” from the Fablehaven series by Brandon Mull, “7-Day Layer Dip” from Lauren Oliver’s Before I Fall, and “I Hate Chocolate Cake” from Amanda Hocking’s Switched. Mouthwatering photos complement every recipe.

This is not to be missed. Go check out the tour and go get an electronic copy.

And while you're at it, take some notes on Christy's book reviews. She picks good ones, and I know you'll need something to read this summer. (or winter should you be reading this from the land down under. A big wave to you mates.)

Write because you have something to say

2011-06-06T10:31:00.006-06:00

It's a motto that I have lived by since I can remember. Before I considered it writing, I wrote only what meant something to me. I either let no one else read it or I threw it away.

Now I write things that mean something to me and give it to the world to see.

But I still try to only write when I have something to say. And today...

all I have is randomness.

Truly. I've been editing like it's my new favorite sport. Has this ever happened to you? All I want to do is sit and revise- edit- revise- change- oooh, and revise some more. It's like a disease.

And then my grandma sends me a random e-mail that makes me laugh so hard I can't breathe- so I'll share some of it with you in case you have my demented sense of humor...
Church Ladies With typewriters . . .

They're Back! Those wonderful Church Bulletins! These sentences (with all the BLOOPERS) actually appeared in church bulletins or were announced in church services:

The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals.
--------------------------
The sermon this morning: 'Jesus Walks on the Water.' The sermon tonight: 'Searching for Jesus.'
--------------------------
Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your husbands.
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Don't let worry kill you off - let the Church help.
--------------------------

For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.
--------------------------

At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be 'What Is Hell?' Come early and listen to our choir practice.
--------------------------

Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.
--------------------------
Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered..
--------------------------

Potluck supper Sunday at 5:00 PM - prayer and medication to follow.
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The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.
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This evening at 7 PM there will be a hymn singing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.
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Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM . Please use the back door.
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The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement Friday at 7 PM . The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.
--------------------------
Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.
--------------------------
The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new campaign slogan last Sunday: 'I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours.

So as you can see, I'm breaking my own rule. I don't really have anything to say... but I'm still laughing. Aaah. Okay, I'll come back and entertain with something more thought-provoking ...next time.

Finding Ruts

2011-05-31T10:03:00.002-06:00

In between checking e-mails, I stumbled across an MSN article about exercising ruts. Okay, I admit, I read the whole thing.

And I was surprised to see that I was stuck in a rut or two myself. After thinking about it, I realized how simple it would be to make a couple of adjustments and *ding* my rut would be gone.

For you exercise enthusiasts out there- I decided I needed more resistance training. I kind of let that one go out the window at least six years ago. I know- kind of bad of me. But I can change. It would be easy. I just needed to think about it and realize that I should do it.

What about writing ruts?

1- Just like in exercising, sometimes you need to switch things up. If you go on the same walk for 30 minutes every single day, your muscles get used to it and you plateau.

Instead of doing exactly the same thing everyday, be aware of when you need to be diverse. When you're writing there are many things that take time- planning your plot, developing your characters, creating scenes, finding weak spots in your plans, editing, writing, etc.

The list can really keep going for a long time. In fact, if you're simply writing and never planning or thinking into your story, it won't be as strong of a book.

2- Is the story itself stuck in a rut? This is where stepping back and doing resistance training will help. Get your weights out and find new ways to strengthen your plot and characters. Figure out what's missing. Maybe the stakes aren't high enough, we need more time in the character's head, more action, less info dump, more dialogue, less dialogue... you get the picture.

Sometimes the only way we can see the problem is to step back and think about it from a different angle.

3- And lastly, we're setting our workout machine on "fat burning" so that we stay in a zone that is easier, but ultimately burns fewer calories and ends up being a less effective workout.

There's a chance you could push yourself a little more when it comes to the writing industry. Maybe you need more social media, writers conferences, a writers group, etc. Or perhaps you could handle writing more hours in the day than you do. If you could be doing more than you are, try to.

And in the end, we'll have a better story- uhm, and a better body too I guess if you apply all the same exercise principles. So get your tennis shoes out, or your computer, and have fun!

The Brutally Honest Truth

2011-05-27T09:22:00.003-06:00

I can't believe how impossible it's been to tell the whole world, but I think it's about time. Maybe just for my own sake. Or maybe it's just so you know- in case you're still convinced I'm some kind of superstar... ha ha ha... so kidding.

First, let me tell you that I acknowledge how teeny tiny and not universally important the following is. Whew. Glad I got that out of the way.

In April my little bubble of my writing career popped. My agent, who I had signed with nearly a year previous, decided she was no longer interested in representing YA. (As a small consolation, I have reason to believe she gave the same news to her other clients. I received collective e-mails addressing her former YA writers.)

So there I was, standing with finished manuscripts in my hands and no one to represent them. I thought I had been patiently waiting for the process to work. I know how busy agents can be and for that reason I tend to leave people alone to do their job unless something important comes up.

I have to admit that I felt like a complete idiot when she said she thought she dumped me six months previously. SIX MONTHS. Uhm, she didn't. The beauty of e-mails. I read every single one she sent me, and nothing remotely referred to this. But I had left her alone for six whole months, busily writing the book she had given her enthusiastic blessing on, the whole time thinking that any day, a contract would magically pop out of the ground like a tulip.

Do I take any of the blame? Yes.

I learned that if I don't hear anything from my agent at all, I should check in at least once a month via e-mail just to be sure we're still on the same page.

Other than that, I think the hardest part has been getting over my own reaction to the hit. All I could think was that my writing wasn't good enough. Which of course equates to- I'm not good enough. And if my writing and me aren't good enough, what the heck do I think I'm doing in the book industry?

And then, after nearly two months, I've finally come to a new conclusion. People are willing to give me more chances. I have to be willing to take them.

The light went on. I was trying to convince myself that I didn't need writing, that it wasn't worth the pain I felt because I couldn't be happy unless I aspired to the career I knew I wanted. That I still want.

But in the process of trying to leave it, story ideas have tracked me down and followed me around like Marley's chains. The only way I can ever feel free is if I write.

And now- I am in love with it all over again. I still don't have an agent. I don't know how long it will take to get one. I may end up having to write a whole new story and start over with the queries.

But now I know that I will.

Not so much that I can, but that I will.

To write or not to write, that is the question

2011-05-25T09:16:00.003-06:00

Okay, so, I don't know if y'all noticed, but all of the entries but one were from Boise for the new books. Hmm, I guess that means I'll have to see if I have a book that you guys might want.

emfawcett - gets to pick YA or Middle Grade

Everyone else on the list- you guys live around here, so come to my house and choose which book you want. Seriously. I have some new books you can take a look at.

As for the rest of you- are you ready for summer? I am. So ready.

We've been getting these half committed days that act like a combination of winter and spring. Choose one already! Of course, by that I mean choose summer.

Considering the weather nationally though, I'm not going to complain.

But this does bring me to the topic of commitment.

What does it mean to be committed to writing?

For me it means a few things.
First, to write in spite of everything. This one is the hardest. To write in spite of everything means that no matter how many times I get a rejection letter or watch my books NOT sell, I keep writing. In the face of failure, I write. When I'm sure I'm probably a washed up wanna be, I write. When I've convinced myself that I never really had a gift with words, just a lucky moment here and there, I write. When I don't believe a single encouraging word I've said to someone else, or that someone has said to me, I write. When I've finally decided I should just give the whole thing up... I'm still shaking my head... I write.
In spite of the fact that there is not one shred of proof that all the hours I spend on this craft will ever end in success, I write.

Second, to write because of everything. I know this sounds like a close cousin to the first reason, but it feels different to me. Given all the discouragement listed above, I can not keep the stories from following me around. I can't help but notice the rare perfect moments when the world feels right. It's impossible to ignore the fact that maybe all I need is to keep writing because one of these days I might get it right. Life creates moments that beg to be used in a story.

And what if I didn't write? Would the stories in my head slowly sink into the ground and leave me alone? Would I feel as though my life was profoundly more fulfilling having escaped the flood of rejections that writing necessarily causes?
I ask myself these questions all the time. The problem is I am pretty sure giving up wouldn't end in happiness.

It seems the only way to be happy is to be miserable. Or maybe one has to go through the misery to get to the moments of sheer joy.

Whatever it is, I haven't successfully talked myself into quitting, and I've been trying really hard to lately. I want to be happy. There has to be a way to strike a balance between the heartbreaks of never reaching goals and the satisfaction of knowing that persistence will win in the end.

Randomness in no particular order

2011-05-20T10:10:00.002-06:00

First, I must tell you how excited I am about my fourteen-year-old son taking first place in Districts yesterday for the high jump. YAY! Today he runs- and for the life of me I still can't keep straight which distances they are. I can remember the relay- I know, lame mom of me. But he's a great runner and I'm hoping he can get out there and do something he feels happy about at the end of the day.

And, yesterday we had a fabulous Spring Show with the Boise Cloggers. Honestly, I don't know how I ended up getting so many fantastic families to come to my studio. I feel so blessed. My dancers are more than talented athletes, they are true friends and bright individuals.

Speaking of gratitude. I had a surprise e-mail to made my day this morning...

I found and read Alvor one day at the BYU bookstore and loved it. Several months later I found myself interning at Cedar Fort. That was last summer and fall. Last week I read your book, Wings of Light and loved it. I'm a fan.

How awesome is that? It was very cool for me to hear from someone who found my book and fell in love. Oh, and please go to Amazon.com and buy a copy. Read it. Post a review for me.

You'll love it. You know you will. ;)

I found out last week that Wings of Light may or may not make it onto very many Brick and Mortar bookstore shelves. Complicated explanation, but it's usually cheaper online anyway. They say that online sales are higher than in-store sales now too. I never thought the day would come.

Okay- so I realized that I still have a couple of books sitting around that need a new home. I'll pick two winners- and the winners get to pick if they want a Middle Grade or Young Adult book as their prize.

What do you have to do?

*Leave a comment and tell me something random of your own.
*Make me feel better by promising you will read my book soon- or that you already have. Seriously people, Wings of Light is good. And summer is coming. You're going to need something fun to read.
*Your e-mail so I can tell you if you won.

Winners will be posted May 25.

Let the randomness begin!

To TCRG or not to TC, that is the question

2011-05-17T09:34:00.005-06:00

(My oldest son in the middle and me on the left- St. Patrick's Day 2011)

The first week of February I sent in my ominous application to take the TCRG exams in October. About a month later, a packet came from Ireland with lots of study material in it. How exciting.

Then April and May hit me like a waterfall and I haven't been able to keep my head above water long enough to study anything. Zip.

So when I got an e-mail this morning with a confirmation letter to take the exams in October, I decided it was time to recommit to my original plan.

What would happen if I decided not to take the exams in October?

I would likely be barred from ever taking the TCRG exam. In my life. That's a pretty long time, and what if I regretted giving up because it was hard? Would I ever regret it?

Most likely. Darn it. When has hard ever stopped me before?

Oh yeah. Never.

It doesn't mean I'll pass my tests with flying colors, although that is the goal. But to get this close and give up because it will be a ton of work would be...depressing, pathetic, defeating or, yes, in the back corner of my mind I can admit that it would also be a tiny sigh of relief.

But then, giving up on anything hard would give an instant sense of relief, followed by a lifetime of what-ifs. It's the what-ifs that can kill you in the end.

Mmm, and for those of you who have no clue what in the world I'm talking about- I know you're out there- yeap, you- TCRG is a world-recognized certification to teach Irish Dance. It also allows your students to compete Irish dance at feis (pronounced fesh).

Yes, technically you can teach Irish dance without any certification at all, but only TCRG teachers are universally recognized as having credentials, which is why only TCRG students can compete in feis. There's also ADCRG- and that's one step above TCRG. Those are the adjudicators for feiseana.

So- yes, I'm gonna do it. Yes, I'm a little terrified. I really don't want to fail. I guess life is about taking risks, and lately I've been doing a lot of that. Gambling that one of these days, I'm going to get it right.

But if I never try, I never will.

Next on the List

2011-05-15T19:54:00.005-06:00

It's been a crazy couple of months. I mean busy-no-time-to-sit-down-and-write crazy.

I"m home again and very much looking forward to what used to be known as a regular schedule. We still have the Spring Show coming up on Thursday... but soon, very soon, I will reclaim my normal life.

Which will include a brand new book to write. Aaah. Yes. I've settled on an idea that I'm excited to work on.

And, unlike anything I've tried so far, it will have no fantasy or science fiction in it at all. It's not a dark depressing story either, so I think I'm gonna have some serious fun with this.

That's the beauty of YA. I can write whatever I want and it's still considered the same category.

What is it? Think romance tripping over a suspense in a glamorously awkward way. This is going to be such a great ride to write.

Had to share that with you.

Reaction

2011-05-10T10:30:00.002-06:00

My four-year-old just now, "Mom! It's spring! I saw two butterflies."

Maybe it's because I've just had the most amazing week, but everything seems to have more color in it today. The wind is blowing and we lack flowers or even leaves on some of our normally gorgeous bushes. Outside spring is having a debate, but inside of me, it's here.

New life. New color. My heart is full.

I always come away from writers conferences feeling inspired and ready to take on my career with more enthusiasm, but this time that feeling has been multiplied in ways that I never thought possible.

To say I loved the LDStorymakers Conference does not seem to come close to expressing the depth of how this last week affected me in so many positive ways. Yesterday when I thought about it, it brought tears to my eyes. I don't know if people are allowed to have as many perfect experiences as I had in just four days.

I will never be the same person again.

That's not to say that I won't experience more and more failures as I reach towards my writing dreams, but at least my bucket is full now and whether I deserve it or not, I feel so much hope.

How can I say thank you enough to all the talented friendly people that made this last week so unforgettable? It takes a small army to accomplish what they did and they have my deepest gratitude.

For those of you who took the time to talk to me... and you know who you are... I can't say thank you enough. Thank you for filling my heart so full that it might just burst. And would that be such a bad thing? I will never be the same again. I am a different person than the girl who left for Utah last week. And I have you to thank for that.

Writers Confernce thoughts

2011-05-03T08:47:00.005-06:00

If you're a writer, make writer's conferences a planned part of your life. Period.

That said, now you have to figure out which ones to go to. There are so many wonderful choices, it really is hard to go wrong.

For me, it comes down to a few criteria.
*How much does it cost?
*How many days do I have to be away from home?
*Do the dates conflict with other things in my life that I cannot (or should not) get out of?
*Are there nationally recognized presenters in attendance?

If I had a limitless supply of money, I would absolutely attend more conferences. I love them.

At the SCBWI conference I attended a few weeks ago, someone asked me if I had gotten anything out of it. I have to admit I was taken back from the question because it's the last thing I would have expected to hear. But the answer is always the same- yes. I always get something out of writers conferences, no matter how big or small they are.

Sometimes I'll hear the same exact things, but I think about it in a new way or apply it to my WIP. Because where I am in life changes everyday, what I hear and learn when I go to classes changes too.

The LDStorymakers Conference is coming up this weekend. I've been working with some talented people to help organize some of the aspects of this conference- but that aside- I can honestly say that this is my favorite writers conference hands down.

Do you have to be LDS to attend? No way. We have nationally recognized agents, this year a St. Martin's Press editor and national authors both LDS and not presenting. If you've never considered this Utah conference, look into it.

And the price is extremely reasonable. How can that be? I still don't know, but I'm not complaining.

Agents attending this year...
Sara Crowe with Harvey Klinger, Inc.
Sara Megibow with Nelson Literary Agency
Becca Stumpf with Prospect Agency

And we have Marcia Markland, Senior Editor with Thomas Dunne Books, which is a part of St. Martin's Press.
Other editors are...
Lisa Mangum with Deseret Book
Kirk Shaw, Senior Editor for Covenant Communications

And the list of presenters is incredible as well. There are so many subjects covered in presentations that you have up to eight choices of classes to attend every hour for two days.

Don't forget the pitch sessions. Each agent is taking 25 pitches and the editors nearly as many. Since attendees can only sign up for one pitch, it means we have well over 100 people pitching to an editor or agent this weekend.

Just under 500 people are registered for the LDStorymakers Conference this year. There's a good reason for that. This is simply one of the most organized, well put together, professional and helpful conferences in the Northwest. People fly from all over the country to attend.

It makes me feel lucky that it's only a six hour drive for me.

So, if it seems I've disappeared off the face of the earth this weekend, it's only because I'm busy loving the writers conference, catching up with old writing friends and having the time of my life.

Y and Z

2011-04-30T10:40:00.002-06:00

Okay, I missed a day- but those two little letters are such good friends, I didn't think they would mind sharing.

I have some winners to announce....

Diana D
M.A.D.
Julie S
Van_pham
Nebraska Filemans

Congratulations to all you book winners.

And, I noticed someone finally got brave enough to leave a review on Amazon.com for Wings of Light. Thanks for that. I would love some more!

Y is for YES.

We don't hear that word very often in writing. On a professional level, we hear the word "unfortunately" a lot more. So what are some of the yeses of writing?

*Yes, you can write. Everyone is allowed to write, no matter your age, occupation or social standing. There are no limits to who can put thoughts together in a written form.

*Yes, it does matter. I have to remind myself of this a lot. It's easy to forget about all the people that have proven that this journey has been worth it. Sometimes the road is so hard that it seems like nothing I have done has amounted to anything, and then something comes in my e-mail box, or like yesterday, in the mail and reminds me that it does matter.

Here's a snippet of something I got in the mail yesterday from a girl in Washington whom I've never met....

I wanted to thank you for writing Alvor and Wings of Light. I really enjoy reading, but I am finding it more and more challenging to find a good book that has a great storyline and is clean. I was really excited to find Alvor... I just finished reading Wings of Light, and once again, you have created a fantastic book that is clean... Thanks for being thoughtful and keeping morals in your books.

Wow. Thanks Emily. It really made my day to hear from you.

A different kind of Yes is YES- the LDStorymakers Conference is coming up next week and I'm so excited to see everyone!

And Z is for the end. The last letter of the alphabet, and probably the last time I'll ever try to blog everyday for a whole month.

X is for Xavene

2011-04-28T09:02:00.002-06:00

Tall, dark and handsome and ready to take over the world. You remember him?

He's the villain in my fantasy series Alvor and Wings of Light. And soon to be the final book....- well, I'm still working on the title. And some major plot lines. And let's face it, I still have to write it.

But what to call it? My husband said something manly and testosterone-filled. Uhhhm. So that's still under construction.

But let's talk about Xavene. In my story we have a clear bad guy with certain evil objectives. He must be stopped.

Is there anything about Xavene that we like? I hope so. I mean, not only is he brilliant, he once had a serious crush. Someone who is capable of love is capable of some hate issues too. In book two, Wings of Light, I bring out a little of Xavene's past. In the coming book, we're going to see even more of this character. And, as strange as it may seem, I want him to be even more relatable in the final book.

He'll still be the bad guy, but a bad guy with depth. That's something to think about as you're writing.

*Why should the reader care about the villain?
*How well does the reader know the villain?
*Are there ever moments where the reader sympathizes with the bad guy?
*What are some human qualities of the villain?
*Weaknesses?
*What is the motivation behind the villain's goal? Is it worth stopping?

Not all stories have or need a villain. But if your book has one, or two, figure out a way to make that role interesting and three dimensional.

And in other news.... go down to the V is for Valuable post and enter to win some book!

W is for Writing

2011-04-27T09:07:00.002-06:00

I read an agent's bio where she said she was not impressed by authors who blog, facebook, twitter, do linkedin or Goodreads. She said that if a writer was doing all that, when were they writing?

While I respectfully disagree with her opinion that writers should not utilize the internet to market, it is important to write.

The fact is, even when I'm not writing, I'm thinking about it. It's a hovering thought that follows me around. If I'm in middle of writing a story, I ponder what events should happen next and how that will affect the characters.

If I'm editing, I think about that.

And, when I have finished a manuscript, I think about what I might want to write next.

The fact is, although a writer must take time to write, one cannot sit and do nothing else all day. I often think it's the time away from a piece of work that makes the piece any good at all. It's when I'm thinking about it that fresh ideas come. Yes, that happens while I'm writing too, but I look at the bigger picture so much better when I don't have a computer screen in front of me.

To write, one must live. I believe that.

Alright, just another reminder to check out the V is for Valuable post and sign up to win a book.

Write On!

V is for Valuable- now come win some books

2011-04-26T10:16:00.004-06:00

All writers need to understand what is valuable to them. In the craft of writing, here are some things on that list.... family, friends, readers, writing friends, book reviewers, publishers, editors and agents.

All these people make it possible for your words to come to life and end up in the hands of even more people.

Okay, now for the book you see at the top of this post. May I present to you Bryan Bostick. I met him at an SCBWI conference in Boise- and he lives in Utah. Talk about dedication to his craft. He has this awesome book coming out in October. Check out his website.

As a writer, I can honestly say that it's the people I've met that make this whole journey worth it. People like Bryan, who take the time to talk to someone new. Readers who are kind enough to send an e-mail or leave a book review telling me how much they enjoyed my words. Authors who step out and let their hand of friendship rest on my shoulder. And, of course, where would I be without my publisher?

There is much to be thankful for. And if you keep in mind that all these people are valuable, your world will become a richer place.

And, since I have some brand new books sitting around waiting for a new home, I'm going to give some away. You've all endured the alphabet blogging experience so well, it's time we partied.

I'm going to choose five winners. FIVE WINNERS. I have two middle grade books and three YA. To enter to win....

*Go to B.K. Bostick's blog and be a follower.

*I know you are probably already a Very Cool Person, but if not, sign up to follow this blog.

*Leave a comment and your e-mail address, or, if you prefer, e-mail me at laurabinghambooks@gmail.com- okay people, we need an interesting subject. Tell me the name of the last book you read.

*Winners chosen April 29- this Friday. Random.org to the rescue.

U is for Understanding

2011-04-25T10:00:00.004-06:00

I don't know if I've been like this my whole life, or if it's something that started somewhere in my adulthood. I'm a people watcher. Some might think I'm quiet and shy, but really, I'm watching.

I watch because I find it fascinating. I want to understand what makes people tick.

If you're a writer, this is a great way to do character research.

Here's an example of what I'm talking about....

I'm sitting in a restaurant and can't help noticing a couple sitting a two tables away. He can't stop smiling, and she doesn't smile much at all. Hmmm. He's doing a lot of the talking. She engages in the conversation, but isn't over the top with the hand motions and giddy smile.

Then I go through a list of possibilities. He's trying to impress her, that's clear. Now is it on a romantic level, or is it some crazy big business opportunity that he is sure he's about to nail?

Giddy smile. I'm thinking romantic.

Hmmm, her nails are seriously manicured, neither on wears a wedding ring, she looks like she tried to dress up and he's in jeans. If this were a business meeting, he would have dressed up for it.

Romantic for sure.

He uses big hand motions as he talks. The smile never leaves his face. She seems interested, but not half as committed. Does she like him? Maybe. She could be a watcher like me who takes time to figure someone out before diving in headfirst.

Or she could be hoping the date will be over soon.

But the dinner takes too long for me to know whether it involved dessert.

And how do I know any of this stuff? I don't. But when I'm writing, I have to give the readers enough impressions that the character's actions tell a story of their own. What is human nature? What makes us believe certain motivations might be involved? If a writer doesn't know the answers, it will never come out in the story.

Sure, we can cheat by planting the reader directly inside the main character's head, but what about all the supporting characters? That's where this whole level of people understanding becomes critical. Recognizing signals and body language that sends messages is part of what makes a story real.

If you're not a people-watcher, try it sometime. Everyone has a story; maybe you can figure some of them out.

T is for Time

2011-04-23T22:00:00.002-06:00

It's the one thing that is as elusive as it is oppressive.

"The only reason for time is so that everything doesn't happen at once." Albert Einstein

"Don't count every hour in the day, make every hour in the day count." author unknown

A universal question for writers no matter what their occupation is "When do you write?" Or rather, "When do you find time to write?"

I'm here to tell you that that answer will change as your life shifts with the ever moving sand in the hourglass.

Finding time is a choice. What you do with the time you have is also a choice. You know your schedule and yourself better than anyone. Figure out what will work for you. Make it a part of your life.

One page a day goes a long way. In a year you have a novel. Of course revisions and editing are part of the process too. Make a schedule and then make it work.

You do have time to write, you just have to find it.

S is for Synopsis

2011-04-22T16:00:00.000-06:00

Someone asked me how to write a synopsis the other day. Other than the fact that it is more difficult than writing a full-length novel, there are some guidelines that make the task less ominous.

Here are some things to keep in mind...

Your synopsis should have the following qualities:

Goal/ motivation/ strength/ weakness/ age/ setting/ plot trigger/ initial problem/ complicating events/ darkness/ present tense/ third person/ tone like book/ strong words- verbs/ no cliff hangers/ character driven solution/ satisfying ending

3 Part Synopsis

1- Hook

2-Problem (middle of the book- Complicate big problem, add excitement)
3- Climax (serious confrontation that combines strengths and flaws to get to solution)

R is for Reviews

2011-04-21T10:22:00.004-06:00

Book Reviews are an interesting thing.

First of all, what qualifications does a person have to have to do a book review?

None. Other that hopefully reading your book.

Do book reviews have an impact?

Absolutely. With the internet now at the fingertips of the world, we are able to communicate with masses with very little effort.

Example: Go to Amazon.com, post a review, choose a star rating and bam, the entire universe can now read what you have to say. Seriously.

Are book reviews important? Do authors need them?

Big yes. Without reviews, it seems as though no one has taken the time to read your book, even though reviews cannot possibly reflect the entire population of people who have.

Positive reviews ensure future readers that their choice is worthwhile. Negative reviews leave potential readers skeptical.

Do people pay attention to book reviews?

Definitely. I am still getting comments about the book reviews left for Alvor. It's as though those reviews shade how the reader goes into my book.

As a consumer, I constantly read reviews. I want to know what the positives are, along with the negatives. I want to buy products with my eyes open. I admit, when it comes to book reviews I have a different slant. Not all books are for everyone. If someone reads a book that they're not thrilled with, it does not necessarily mean that I won't like it... or my kids. In fact, I have found many reviews for books that I don't agree with.

Do authors want people to review their books?

YES!!!!! As has been said again and again, even bad press is press. The more people read and review books, the more others' interest will peak. Reviews help books find their way into more hands.

So please take time to review books. Amazon, Barnes & Noble, goodreads, blogs, etc.- there are many options.

And be thoughtful as you write your reviews. Authors are people too.

Remember that once a book is published, it can't be changed. Offering critiques to the author once a book is out is like telling a peach tree to grow apples. The only thing a writer has control over are books that aren't published yet. If you're good at reviews, contact publishing houses and ask for ARCs. These advance reader copies are a way to reach into the publishing world before everything is set in stone.

Okay, did I motivate you yet? Now read Wings of Light and write a review for me. Please!

Q is for Questions

2011-04-20T15:18:00.003-06:00

I thought about writing a post about query letters. But I did that almost a year ago and I don't have anything new to say.

Instead, I've been thinking a lot about questions. I think one of the best ways to learn anything is through questions.

Last week I took my kids to Barnes & Noble to meet Brandon Mull. I found out about his visit five minutes before we climbed into the car. Half way there I thought of books of his that I have that still aren't signed, but onward we went. A couple years ago when he was here the line was forever long.

This time, it wasn't so bad. Well, it would have gone a little faster, but he was taking his time with people.

I have to admit, I wondered how twenty people could take an hour, but as our turn came next in line, I found out.

His exact words to the people in front of me were, "Do you have any questions for me?"

And it hit me. That single sentence opens a floodgate. No wonder it took an hour.

And then, since I was so busy thinking about how amazing it was that he was talking so personally with all these people, my turn came up and I didn't have a question for him.

I'm a writer, so I always have something to say, right? I wish.

He said hi to my kids. I told him I was an author. He told me it's impossible to make it as a new author in today's economy.

It wasn't great. I left there feeling yet again, like a failure.

Why couldn't I have thought of a question?

One of the things I love the most about teaching is when people ask questions. I usually end up learning something or thinking about things from a new angle when people ask questions. It's my favorite part of any class, even if I'm the student.

Questions are sincere. Someone really wants to know. Don't be afraid to ask questions. And, unlike I did, take a minute and think of things to ask.

P is for Publishing

2011-04-19T10:26:00.003-06:00

The ultimate goal for all writers is to have their work read. Notice, it doesn't say that the ultimate goal for all writers is to make millions of dollars (but sure, we'd take it in a heartbeat.)

The fact is, I have to remind myself all the time that one of the greatest things I can hope for is for my words to find their way into another person's head. Whether they read it off the internet, check it out of the library, borrow their friend's copy, or actually make a purchase.

And really, there is only one way your words will make it into the hands of complete strangers. You have to get published.

Okay, you have some options. Each option is optimal for different things, so don't completely discount any of the choices. In spite of the stigma some people choose to attach, there is a need and a place for everything.

Self Publishing or Vanity Press. This is optimal for books that have a specific target audience. That's it. Whether your target audience is your friends and family because it tells something of an autobiography or it's instructional geared towards a very specific occupation, self publishing can be a great tool. People sometimes choose this route when things fall through with their other publishing opportunities as well.

E-book publishing. This is getting bigger everyday. Some people choose to have their books published strictly digitally. There are arguments that this is the wave of the future.

Small traditional press. You don't need an agent for this and the wait time for a book can be significantly faster than the big publishing houses. A small traditional press is exactly that. It has a smaller budget for marketing, a smaller sphere of influence in the book industry and as a result, they print fewer books. You will be in the bookstores, but for a shorter time-line than the bigger presses.

Big Traditional Publishing House. This is the full-meal-deal. You are going to need an agent. Even if you somehow manage to secure interest in your manuscript without an agent, you will be advised to get an agent to work out the contract negotiations. A big publisher means a better marketing platform, highly trained editors and media specialists and a better representation of your book when it is released. The trick here is that not only is it difficult to sign with an agent, it is equally as difficult for the agent to sell your book to the publishers. There are a lot of writers competing for the limited spots in the publishing houses.

O is for Opportunity

2011-04-18T09:31:00.004-06:00

"You'll always miss 100% of the shots you don't take." Wayne Gretzky

Opportunity and Carpe Diem have so much in common.

I'm writing this post from the angle of an author's life. If you are knee-deep into writing and you're willing to go until you're up to your eyeballs, this post is for you.

First, if you don't already know it, being a writer does not follow logic. You're likely to spend years at it an not once make enough money to make your house payment and feed your kids for more than a few months out of the year. Writing is not a financially lucrative career.

Usually.

Yes, there are the superstar exceptions. Could that be you someday? Anything's possible.

But fame and fortune isn't what drives you to write. That's the secret normal-minded people don't often understand. You write because you love it. In the face of failure, you write. When your life is wonderful, you write. You write because it's part of who you are.

But we would all love to see our words in the hands of others, and that's where today's topic applies.

You can't sit and type on your computer at home and never reach out to the book industry and still expect your publishing dreams to come true.

This is where you have to look at the Carpe Diem chart. We'll pretend you have your basic survival needs met. Do you have the motivation?

If you want to get published, you have motivation.

We jump right into the fear pool so fast we don't notice how cold the water is until it's clear over our heads. You submit your manuscript, or you query agents. You were motivated enough to write the query letter and synopsis, now you have to test it out there in the big brutal world.

Then you face the battery of rejections.

But, in writing, we go through the steps so fast that you may not even realize that you made it to the Carpe Diem level until you're there. You sent your query- you ceased the day.

Don't worry, you'll get a chance to go through this cycle all over again very soon.

Will you learn anything? Absolutely.

Will you be better because of it? I hate to admit it, but yes, rejection makes you stronger.

But most importantly, will you make more opportunities? Opportunity isn't a field full of wild flowers waiting to be picked, it's an empty field where you plant the seeds.

N is for Networking

2011-04-16T22:29:00.003-06:00

I know I'm just barely making today's post. This alphabet thing is tough. I've never tried to post everyday for a month.

Anyway, today I practiced what I preach.

Networking.

I went to the Boise SCBWI conference and talked to people. It wasn't monumental or life-changing for me, but it was information and nice. A good chance to think about things again from another point of view.

Take time to talk to people. All kinds of people. You never know who your next friend will be or where that will take you.

Take a chance. Talk. Relax. That's what networking is all about.

The writing sandbox really is small. We have to get along. You will see the same people over and over again. If you have a friendly face to look forward to, the whole experience is sweeter.

Don't intentionally offend someone. Trust me, it isn't worth it. No one wins. And worse, you will have to see those people again and again if you plan to stay in the writing world.

Play nice. Have fun. It really is worth it in the end.

M is for Marketing

2011-04-15T09:24:00.004-06:00

If you want to be in the book industry, you have to be able to wrap your brain around the concept of marketing.

In today's world, the author is responsible for creating a buzz about their book and to do that, there are some resources you will want to acquaint yourself with....

*Business cards. Simple, I know. But don't underestimate these little guys. They work great as a bookmark and never once have I wondered if they were worth it. I've given these away in the oddest places... the post office, the store.. and of course in all the professional places too... book signings, conferences. Get some. Use them. Make sure your website presence is represented.

*Speaking of the internet- get there. The internet is the single most useful tool when it comes to promoting your book. Blogs are free. Websites can be too. Facebook. Twitter. Linkedin. Amazon. Goodreads. You can be all over the place for free. Do it.

*Do you want to see a seriously beautiful website page? This is new today- a gift from my publisher. You must check it out.

*Blog tours. Don't have a blog? Get one. Then go find a bunch of other people who have one and do a blog tour. This is a great way to find new traffic and let people know about your latest release.

*Book Signings. Do some.

*Writers conferences. Go.

*Find book reviewers and get a book to them. It's amazing how many people are willing to spend their time with your book and then tell everyone what they thought about it. Book reviewers are awesome.

*School presentations. We might get into this subject more on another day, but it's a great way to meet a bunch of new people. And it's fun. A no-lose situation all around.

Oh, and M stands for Mush. My brain is kind of that today... I think I sat in a jury box for more hours than my tiny brain could handle without melting a little. So, uhm, if I e-mailed you in the last two days and I forgot something important, you know, like your NAME, I'm really sorry.

And that's not even the worst thing I've forgotten in the last two days. My goal today is to get my brain back. Now if I could just figure out where I left it....

L is for Love

2011-04-13T23:25:00.003-06:00

"To my mother, Candy, who taught me that love is the best part of any story." Stephenie Meyer, dedication page of "The Host"

Not very often does the dedication page stay with me for years, but this one did. I've thought about this statement constantly as I've written.

Is is true?

Well, it's not the only element critical to making a story riveting, but in the end, if the story has no level of love in it, I can't relate to it.

It doesn't have to be the romantic love to be love.

And if there is no love for self or others anywhere in the story, I don't know how to understand what the characters are feeling.

Love is central. In our most basic sense, love is what sets humans apart from the rest of the planet. We need love. Love in self, family, friends and eventually true love. Love for our fellow beings. Even love for the things we are doing.

K is for Kindle

2011-04-13T07:52:00.001-06:00

It's for people who want a whole library in the palm of their hand.

And really, who can blame them?

Wings of Light is now available on Kindle and let's face it, it's cheaper than the book version. But I won't be able to sign it for you.

There's one of the down-sides.

What kind of reader are you? Are you a kindle-reader or a paper-reader? I know, there's also all the other brands out there too. I don't mean to leave anyone out.

Me? I'm totally a book reader. It's hard to imagine snuggling up with a kindle and a cup of hot chocolate. It just doesn't give me the same feel.

Sometimes I wish I had one, mostly when I'm away from home. But I know me well enough to know that if I liked the book enough, I would end up buying the paper version anyway. I'm a read-it-again-and-again kind of girl.

I have to be. I can't afford to buy hundreds of new books and until my kids are a little older, I'm not seeing the library as my first option.

And, well, confession... I love books. Love them. They're like having friends in my house. I see the books and not only do they represent the stories inside, but the people who wrote them. My bookshelf is rich with thoughts of others. I love having them there. I love sharing them. It's so much fun to see my kids take to the books on my shelves.

I'm raising kids who think that being in a bookstore might be even better than being in a candy shop. They love books too. My kids told me today that our house is practically overflowing with books. It looks like there's nothing wrong with their imaginations! We don't have that many books, do we?

J is for Janette Rallison, James Dashner & Jeff Savage

2011-04-12T10:07:00.004-06:00

Over the last few years I've had the exquisite opportunity to get to know other authors better. I can truly say that my perspective has improved thanks to these three people, and many others too.

Janette, James and Jeff are all lucky enough to have J names.

It all started with James Dashner. Before I knew anything about him or the thought of writing ever crossed my mind, I had read all of James Dashner's "Door in the Woods" series. And it turned out that my now 14-year-old son (then 9) thought that those books were super cool.

He used one of the books for his school project. Naturally, the name James Dashner stuck in my head.

Eventually I made the decision to write (which wasn't due to hitting my head, although now I'm wondering what in the world could have gotten into me) and like all writers, I got to the end of my book.

Now what?

I had no idea.

Oh yeah. Edit. So I did. Join a writers group. I did that too.

Uhm, now what?

Sell the thing. Okay, knowing that I knew nothing and had zero experience in the book industry, I decided to go the safe route and submit to a small traditional press.

Then the fateful day came when I got a contract.

I had no idea what I was getting into. I was scared. Sounds kind of stupid, I know. So what did I do? I e-mailed my complete stranger pal, James Dashner. He's an author. And it turned out that the whole "Door in the Woods" series was with the same publisher which more or less made him the expert in my opinion.

The strangest thing happened. He e-mailed me back. Without knowing me at all, he not only answered my questions, but was gracious enough to do a blurb for the back of my book.

James Dashner is a great guy, and to me that's even more important than all the success he's run into since I first met him.

And since then, I've had the pleasure of meeting Janette Rallison and Jeff Savage, who also gave of their time to someone who was a complete stranger to them.

Don't underestimate the power of being friendly. Take the opportunity to get to know others. If you're a writer like me, get out of your comfort zone and take a chance on other authors. It turns out that most of them are really nice. And then you have someone you can turn to to ask questions that almost no one else you know could have the answers to.

Thanks to all my J friends. And all my other friends too. You are what makes life a happy place.

I is for Ideas

2011-04-11T09:16:00.004-06:00

Fresh ideas It's where ever story begins.

I'm going to focus on fiction writing, since that's what I do. Before 70,000 words can bleed into a riveting story, there has to be an idea strong enough to compel the story to be written at all.

Here are some idea tips...

*High fantasy is for people who can think in an entirely different universe and stay focused and excited about it for many months at a time.

*Low fantasy/science fiction. This one is where I enjoy hovering. I find it easier to stay in the real world, but tempting to add a dose of different. Sometimes I'll pour a lot of fantasy on, as in Alvor and Wings of Light, where other times I like to keep it light. Science fiction I use literally as a tool in my story. It's never the focus, just a means.

*Contemporary novels are for writers who have a strong story and character with a driving force. Strict contemporary novels must have enough juice to keep the story interesting the whole way through. Make sure you have enough of an idea in the first place before committing your life to this genre.

For me, stories start with an idea and then grow from there. I always explore the possible characters and story development to see if there is enough there to write a whole story.

Often a writer will be working on a manuscript only to find out that the same story line just signed a contract with a major publishing house.

Is that bad? Yes and no.

It's good to have a story that the population can relate to. Your story needs to be unique enough that it carries it's own interest level without conflicting with an already established novel.

But it can be hard to get interest from publishers if your story feels too much the same as another novel that they have recently signed.

How do you know if your novel is the same enough to be comfortable but different enough to grab the attention of major publishers?

You don't.

The only answer I know is to keep writing. If one story didn't hit the mark, write another one. I know, it's discouraging. Stories take a really long time to write, but if you want to make this into a career, it's what you do.

H is for Hope

2011-04-09T13:48:00.003-06:00

When all is said and done, this is what writers live on. Hope. Of course there is work. Plenty of work. Without work, nothing is possible.

But when a writer has done everything in their power to move forward in the industry, hope defines the rest. It's the reason you don't give up.

Hope is hard to kill.

My husband told me last night that his biggest fear is that things will get so hard that I'll finally quit. And I'm not a quitter.

I was touched by his statement, but I've been thinking about why it's not my nature to quit- and I think it all comes down to hope. I have hope. In spite of everything, this keeps me going.

G is for Genre

2011-04-08T09:08:00.004-06:00

Oh the wonderful thing about genre
Is genre's a wonderful thing.....

If you write young adult or middle grade, you're one lucky writer. Unlike the boxes that the rest of the world has to sit in, YA and MG writers can go all over the board and still be in the same category.

Oh, the freedom!

I'm one of those people who when asked what my favorite book is, I stumble and stutter to figure it out. Because I love so many. I can't pick one. It depends on my mood.

It's like food. I'm not always in the mood for the same thing.

So writing YA and MG is really perfect for me. I get to try my hand at all kinds of things and it's still all the same category.

And which is my favorite?

I still don't have one. So far I've written urban fantasy, dystopian and contemporary with a touch of science fiction and romance. Well, for that matter, my dystopian has a tiny bit of science fiction in it too. And all of my books have some level of a love connection in them.

I think I would write anything if I felt a strong passion for it. That's what makes any story worth writing.

What's your favorite genre?

Switching gears for a second. Head on over to LDS Fiction and rate Wings of Light. You just click on the stars below the picture.

Today is the official release day for Wings of Light. Yay!

F is for Failure

2011-04-07T08:51:00.003-06:00

So, you want to be a writer? Welcome to the world of epic failures. In fact, I don't know a success story where failure held no part in it. Name your favorite author. Now go see if you can find out how many rejections that person faced in the process.
If you want to make it in the writing industry, you're going to need some armor. You will get rejections and face disappointments. It's simply a fact.

Does it hurt? Sure. I would be lying if I told you that rejections made me feel wonderful. They stink. But, I will tell you another truth- I have learned from them.

What have I learned?

*Failure is proof that you're working. If you never face rejection, you never had the courage to submit in the first place.

*If you endure, there's a good chance you will be rewarded in the end.

*You can't give up. Unless you can seriously live without this in your life, you can't afford to.

Think of failure as a phoenix. After going through an entire process of what seems like a whole lifetime, everything goes down in flames. Then from the ashes, a new life is born. Failure is a chance to start over. You can get back up.

E is for Editor

2011-04-06T06:00:00.000-06:00

Editors. They could be the author of the book "Has it Ever Occurred to You That You Might Be Wrong?"

Not only do editors have the job of selecting manuscripts from an undaunting pile of submissions, they have to turn their choice into gold.

Meaning, their job is to show the writer all their mistakes. A good editor will do more than point out errors though. The best kind of editor shines a light on the work and makes it easier for the author to see what parts of the work need to be cleaned up. Or cleared up.

As a writer, you love editors. And sometimes, for about five or ten minutes, you hate them, only to love them again once it's finally gotten through your thick skull that they're right. They're almost always right. I'd say they're always right, but I'm sure there are exceptions.

So here are my tips for writers out there. Whether your editor works for a publishing house, freelance, or is your critiqueing buddy....

*Listen.

*Seriously think about the advice.

*Most of the time it takes about 30 seconds to take advice from an editor. 30 seconds per tiny change. A sentence here. A word there. A comma. These are the easy-to-take pieces of advice.

*If you have extensive revision suggestions, take more time to think about it.

*Don't tell the editor they're wrong. 99% of the time you'll regret it.

*Assume they're right and give yourself time to adjust to it.

*If for some rare reason, they are way off, you will know it only after letting the thoughts simmer in your brain for a couple days. It takes time to see things through someone else's perspective. If you think the suggestions are not right for your work, take enough time to know for sure.

*The level your editor is working on often corresponds to how imperitive their suggestions are. Your good buddy's advice will not be the same as the publisher's. Don't take your buddy's advice over the publisher's.

*Take advice on faith, and see how that works for you. I've done this before a few times. At first I didn't know if I would be okay with it, but in the end, I nearly always agreed.

*Don't give up your rights as an author. If something refuses to seem right in spite of how much you've tried to like it or make it work, then stand by your feelings. Editors are human too.

D is for Day Off

2011-04-05T06:00:00.001-06:00

Enough said, right? I've got a lot on my list of things to do, and now I'm evaluating what new things I need to put on it.

For example, do I write the final book of the Alvor series next, or something totally different? Again. I keep doing that. Maybe I'll be sad to see the series end, but I still need to get to it.

Oh, and next week I have Jury Duty. Not looking forward to it.

What is keeping all of you busy? Come on, please share!

C is for Characters

2011-04-04T06:00:00.001-06:00

I just finished reading Cross My Heart by Julie Wright. Since her book starts with C, it's safe for today's discussion.
Which leads me to caramel steamers, which also start with C and are therefore pertinent to this post.So what does Cross My Heart and Caramel steamers have to do with characters? Everything.

When I read a book that makes me want to eat what the character is eating, see the sights, hear the sounds, feel the flutter or horrors that the character is experiencing for myself, then the character is real.

In Cross My Heart, Jillian, the main character, does not care for chocolate. I know, it sounds like a conspiracy. But instead of turning into one, she honestly lead me to believe that caramel steamers were one of life's pleasures that should not be missed.

Simple, but effective. No, this story isn't about food. But when you make your character real enough that the reader cares about what the character's preferences are- you've successfully drawn your audience in.

So here are some Character tips for the day:

*Know what your character looks like. Be specific to yourself. Hair, eyes, face, height, weight, complexion, etc.

*Know your character. Even better than your best friend, you have to know how your character would react in every situation.

*Give your characters flaws and quirks and then figure out how to make those things flow with your story. Characters without flaws are boring cartoons. People want something to fall in love with. No one is perfect, if your character is perfect, no one will relate to him/her.

*Let you amazing hero make mistakes. Stupid mistakes. Use their flaws against them.

*Know how your character is going to change by the end of your book. You can't start out with a finished product and then expect to make a convincing story. If your character isn't going to grow in some way or change as a result of the story you're writing, something is wrong with your plan. Go back and figure out how your character is going to change.

*Change isn't just good, it's critical.

*Let your reader into the character's heart and head. The reader wants to fall for your protagonist. They're anxiously waiting for any excuse to relate and love this person. But we have to get to know a person (even an imaginary one) before we can love them. Be open about how the character feels and thinks.

Okay, just for the record, I made a homemade caramel steamer- and it was awesome. I made homemade caramel sauce and added warm milk. Mmmmm. I'm thinking of adding cool whip next.

But for the record, no it hasn't replaced my beloved hot chocolate. But still, it's worth the treat. I'd definitely make some again in the near future. Right now sounds good...

ipod winner

2011-04-02T21:35:00.002-06:00

Thanks to all of you for supporting the Wings of Light Book Launch.

Our lucky winner of the ipod shuffle is

Wicked Walker.

My fourteen-year-old son is already in mourning about this. He's gone as far as to tell me I've lost my mind to give away a brand new ipod shuffle. Don't feel too sorry for him- he has an ipod nano- whatever that means.

Now all of you get out there and buy Wings of Light. You know you want it.

Oh, and if you review books on your blog- let me know- I'll see if I can get my publisher to send you a copy.

Cheers!

B is for Book Signings

2011-04-02T09:55:00.003-06:00

They're all different, but unless you are incredibly famous, you might want to read these tips on book signings.

* Plan ahead. If you're going to be there for two to four hours, bring something to do. Read a book, write on a tiny laptop, study for a test or whatever will make you feel productive. This is usually the last thing people think of when they go to their first book signing. But trust me, that many hours can be tedious without a plan.

*Bring signage. A banner on an easel is a great eye-catcher. Make sure people know that you are the author and of which book.

*Bring business cards. These can be called bookmarks. Make sure your website/blog is listed.

*Have a cool table topper. I usually bring my gold stuffed dragon. It's cute and odd enough that people can't help but look at my table. And it's super portable, not breakable, and very kid friendly. When kids stop, the parents have to. It's a tricky tool.

*Make sure there are plenty of books on your table. You don't want to look sold out unless you really are. And, if you really are, congratulations. Very cool.

*Make eye contact with people and SMILE. That's it. You don't have to accost them. If they want to talk to you, they'll stop.

*Encourage people to read the back of the book instead of spilling into a synopsis. This gets the book in their hands and, believe it or not, that always attracts other people to your table. Now you're free to talk to them because the other people are busy reading the back of your book.

*The more people surrounding your table, the more others assume you must be famous. I know, this sounds weird, but it's true. So don't discourage friends from talking to you at book signings even if they're not there to buy a book. It usually works in your favor to have people around.

*Have something reliable to sign with. Make sure you've tested it.

*Have a few catchy things you can pull out of your hat so that when you're signing more than one book for a family, you have more than one phrase to sign with.

*Ask people how to spell their name.

*Listen to them. If they want to go on a rambling spree for too long, you can always politely cut the conversation, but most of the time, people are reasonable. Have fun talking to them. It's really the best part of the whole experience.

*Be positive. And confident. If you're having a lousy book signing, don't tell anyone until you get home.

*Keep a tally of how many books you've signed. This is a way to feel like you really are selling books. It's strange how time seems to pass during a book signing. Knowing how many books you've sold gives you a sense of accomplishment.

*Look professional. Okay, it's Saturday at Costco and everyone is dressed like it- not you. You're the author. You should look like you meant to be there.

A is for Agent

2011-04-01T09:21:00.007-06:00

and April Fool's Day, and Author...

I decided to do the A to Z challenge on writing. So, if I'm creative enough, you'll get 26 posts on writing and the book industry.

Do you need an agent?

That depends. Are you hoping to sell your work to the national market? If so, the answer is a solid "yes". You need an agent if you plan to work with the big publishing houses.

Are you satisfied with staying with a small traditional press for your writing career? If so, then no, you don't need an agent.

Does getting an agent guarantee you will sell your manuscript and end up with a big juicy contract?

No. You might not even sell the manuscript that landed you the agent in the first place. But, if you keep writing and working with your agent, you are likely to hit a vein sooner or later and get into a decent-sized publishing house.

Is it easy to get an agent?

No. It's rare for a writer to land an agent without spending considerable time on queries and studying the agents out there. Brush up your synopsis. Make sure your manuscript is glowing.

ipod Shuffle- win it

2011-03-31T12:04:00.004-06:00

It's the last day of March! I'm happy to report that the sun is shining and that we are having an awesome week.

As for the giveaway, if you have entered in any of the giveaways this month, you are entered to win the ipod shuffle. But it you want a second entry, leave a comment and be a follower.

My goal is to get to 300 followers- so see if you can help me out with that. I only need ten more! In fact, I think I'll wait to get 300 followers before I choose my ipod winner.
Not fair to all of you who are already on the list, I know, but go grab a friend who's not and tell them to enter to win an ipod shuffle.

I'm also happy to announce that Wings of Light is officially available at Amazon.com

Yay!

It looks like I'm gonna need some reviews there. It's a pretty lonely place right now. If you get a copy and find time to read and review it, you will be officially awesome in my book.

Good luck everyone! And, I'm still sitting on a few books. I think I need to choose some book winners from the list of comments below!

Win Beyonders

2011-03-30T08:37:00.004-06:00

Christy is whipping up more than amazing recipes and book reviews, today as part of the Wings of Light book launch, she's giving away a copy of Beyonders by Brandon Mull.I've mentioned Christy several times in the last month. If you haven't visited her blog, it's about time you made the trip. She is talented in so many ways, and then shares it all on the internet. Not only does she enjoy reviewing books, she has a habit of putting together amazing recipes to go with them. Each book she reviews has a slice of something from the book that you can take to your kitchen and replicate.

And she Irish dances. Enough said.

But then she's an incredible writer who is working on an urban fantasy novel that has incredible potential. Oh, and she has a gift for editing. I know, she's brilliant.

Have fun visiting her.... http://www.dearestdreams.com/

Today I'll be at the Library on the corner of Cole and Ustick from 12-1:00 presenting. If you're in town and bored, come to the library. It will be more fun with you there!

Checking in

2011-03-29T15:01:00.004-06:00

It's a good day. Satisfying.

So, here's to the five lucky winners. I'll give you one week to e-mail me your mailing address before choosing a new winner. (laurabinghambooks@gmail.com)

Chantele Sedgwick
emfawcett
LouMac
Danyelle
Jaidis
Just so you all know, I've got more books up my sleeve, so I might randomly choose more winners.
Last night I finished my latest work. It's a contemporary YA novel with a tiny hint of science fiction. I hate even calling it science fiction because that tiny part is based on a science that could exist, but doesn't. Alas, it's really a contemporary novel called Dancing With Black. It may or may not get to keep that title and you may or may not ever get to see it published. Oh, the realities of writing.

But I'm going to dig into edits. I've got plenty of other things to write. I keep thinking of new ideas everyday. Too bad it takes so long to write a story. It really limits how many I can write. And, I'm a write-one-story-at-a-time kind of girl.

And, if you haven't heard, my books got done early. I should have a few copies on my doorstep any day now. Yay!!!

And speaking of Wings of Light, Christy has come up with a clever recipe called "Raised by Magic Quick Rolls". Oh they look yummy. I'm definitely making some this week! Doesn't this picture make your mouth water?

Now I really want to do the Happy Dance

2011-03-28T09:51:00.003-06:00

Early! Yay! I got an e-mail this morning that said my books were ready to ship. I get to see copies of Wings Of Light this week. I can't believe it!
Now I really feel like celebrating.
So here's the deal. Head on over to Rebecca Talley's blog for a chance to win her newest release
The Upside of Down.

I feel so lucky to have Rebecca helping with this launch. If you haven't read this book, please consider it. She has a way of making you look at life through another set of eyes. Beautiful and inspiring.

And, because I'm feeling crazy good, I want to give away more books. I'm picking five winners tomorrow. Yes, five. You are at the mercy of whatever books I send you, but I'm gonna tell you right now that I have a lot of YA fantasy and middle grade novels waiting for a home. These are brand new books, and honestly, if I don't give them away soon I'm going to hoard them and keep them for my very own.

To enter to win a random book, leave me a comment and be a Very Cool Person (i.e. a follower of this blog). That's it. Tomorrow I'll pick five winners and then you have to e-mail me your address or I won't have a clue where to send your books.

Let the happy dance begin!

Janette Rallison- a fresh sense of humor

2011-03-25T08:49:00.004-06:00

Today we are honored to have Janette Rallison join our book launch and she has Fame, Glory and Other Things On My To Do List up for grabs. Take a quick stroll over to her blog to see all her books that will keep you smiling.

Janette has a gift when it comes to teen romance. Not only can she make you feel that same rush of falling in love for the first time, but she has a way of taking you straight through the fire of teen life's most awkward moments and then back again. Her work will make you laugh out loud with the scenes that resonate with what we do for love.

To win a signed copy of this book, please e-mail the answers (laurabinghambooks@gmail.com) to me and I'll draw a winner next Tuesday.

*What is the name of her newest book being released in April? Ahh, our books have the same birthday!

*This one's kind of hard... Janette wrote a book that was a little more serious and not as much a comic romance. It's about a sister helping her brother... What's the name of this book?

*Become a follower of Janette Rallison's blog.

*Be a Very Cool Person (follow this blog).

And while you're there, you might as well sign up for her giveaway too. One can never have too many books! Don't forget, all who enter any of my giveaways go in the drawing for an Ipod shuffle at the end. Stick around for that!

From L. T.- don't miss this

2011-03-23T08:48:00.005-06:00

Hey all! I've been having so much fun with this giveaway. Thanks to all the amazing people who have been helping me out along the way.

Today's tour takes you to my sweet friend whom I've grown to love more every day. We are like sisters in every way. Not only is she a completely talented writer, the mother of twins, but for some strange reason she seems to get my weird and quirky personality. That alone is a rare quality.

If you haven't had the pleasure of meeting L. T. Elliot, now's the time. Her blog points constantly at her gift for writing and she will find her way into your heart, I assure you. She's giving away this fabulous book...

And now we need to announce another winner...

Linda Kish is the winner of a YA book- she gets to pick her favorite genre. Congrats!

We have lots more prizes on the horizon, and remember, anyone who enters gets into the iPod shuffle drawing at the end. It's gonna be good!

It's Tristi Day!

2011-03-21T08:53:00.003-06:00

Today's the day you can sign up to win Tristi Pinkston's novel Dearly Departed. To enter, hop over to Tristi's blog and follow her rules. This is a fun mystery novel infused with humor. You're not going to want to miss this one.

Today is also your last day to enter to win a book through Rachelle's blog. See the post below for details.

I hope you're all anxious to read some new books. Good luck to all of you!

The day after

2011-03-18T08:43:00.005-06:00

I woke up this morning and my head buzzed. My muscles told me to go back to sleep. Yes, today is the day after St. Patrick's Day. (Dancing, not drinking, people. You must know this about me.) I usually post a whole big exciting thing for St. Patrick's Day but this year I was too busy to do even that.

But I'm here now and I'm catching up with our prizes. First, to announce the winners so far this week....

Lindsaywrites wins the book of her favorite genre.

Aik Chien takes home The Mark by Marilyn Bunderson.

Congratulations. And, I'm going to keep choosing winners from those who are participating, so keep watching.

So how was your St. Patrick's Day? I know the day is so different for civilians. As a family of dancers, we packed in the car at 8:00 AM, me and four of my children, and set off for a day of adventure. Our first show was at an elementary school at 9:00 AM. We didn't stop dancing and driving until 4:00. Seven shows in seven hours.

And since I'm the mom, I can say that my six-year-old twins were adorable even though they couldn't really dance, and my two older boys were straight up fabulous. Everyone on the team worked together to make it happen. By the end of the day the girls were itching for an excuse to pinch the boys and my tiniest son announced, "Finally we get to go home."

Corned beef, Irish potatoes, cabbage and the world's best soda bread waited for us and nothing in the universe could have been better than that. Aaaahhh.

Then a little more dancing and a lot of hot chocolate later, the day finally ended. I'm tip-toeing around the fact that Saturday we're dancing from 10-4. Barnes & Noble at 2:00 for any locals wanting to see some action.

And then we're done with the St. Paddy's performances.

Thanks to Christy for posting a surprise author interview today! Check it out.

And for another chance to win, go over to Rachelle Christensen's blog . She was nice enough to make me look good- you're gonna lover her.

To win, e-mail me at laurabinghambooks@gmail.com the answer to the following questions....

*Name one book that Rachelle wrote.
*How many of her short stories were published by Story Time Felts? (hint... it's in the About Me section)
*And, tell me your favorite YA genre so I can pick something nice out for you.

Okay, winner announced on Monday, March 21.

On the Mark

2011-03-16T08:58:00.002-06:00

Today Marilyn Bunderson is giving away her book titled The Mark.
Head on over to her blog for your chance to win her YA fantasy romance that will have you turning the page. If you like a little mystery and suspense wrapped in there, you will love eating this one up.

For today's giveaway, you need to e-mail me (laurabinghambooks@gmail.com) the answers to the following questions...

*Name one song on Marilyn's book playlist
*What percent of her WIP (work in progress) has she completed?
*Last but not least, you need to be a follower of her blog.

Good luck to all of you! I will be choosing a winner Friday. And speaking of winners, if you haven't signed up to win your favorite YA, today's your last chance!

Red Friday

2011-03-15T09:01:00.004-06:00

It's not very often that I start my Tuesday with tears, but after a friend with a deployed husband sent this to me, I had to share it with you. Especially considering how the world is rallying together right now to bring aid where it is needed, here is a way to show that you care no matter where you may be.

I don't have the name of who wrote this.
As a Company, Southwest Airlines is going to support 'Red Fridays.'

Last week I was in Atlanta , Georgia attending a conference. While I was in the airport, returning home, I heard several people behind me beginning to clap and cheer. I immediately turned around and witnessed One of the greatest acts of patriotism I have ever seen.

Moving thru the terminal was a group of soldiers in their camos. As they began heading to their gate, everyone (well almost everyone) was abruptly to their feet with their hands waving and cheering.

When I saw the soldiers, probably 30-40 of them, being applauded and Cheered for, it hit me. I'm not alone. I'm not the only red-blooded American who still loves this country and supports our troops and their families.

Of course I immediately stopped and began clapping for these young unsung heroes who are putting their lives on the line everyday for us so we can go to school, work and home without fear or reprisal.

Just when I thought I could not be more proud of my country or of our Service men and women, a young girl, not more than 6 or 7 years old ran up to one of the male soldiers. He kneeled down and said 'hi...'

The little girl then asked him if he would give something to her daddy for her...

The young soldier, who didn't look any older than maybe 22 himself, said he would try and what did she want to give to her daddy. Then suddenly the little girl grabbed the neck of this soldier, gave him the biggest hug she could muster and then kissed him on the cheek.

The mother of the little girl, who said her daughter's name was Courtney, told the young soldier that her husband was a Marine and had been in Iraq for 11 months now. As the mom was explaining how much her daughter Courtney missed her father, the young soldier began to tear up.

When this temporarily single mom was done explaining her situation, all of the soldiers huddled together for a brief second... Then one of the other servicemen pulled out a military-looking walkie-talkie. They started playing with the device and talking back and forth on it..

After about 10-15 seconds of this, the young soldier walked back over to Courtney, bent down and said this to her, 'I spoke to your daddy and he told me to give this to you.' He then hugged this little girl that he had just met and gave her a kiss on the cheek. He finished by saying 'your daddy told me to tell you that he loves you more than anything and he is coming home very soon.'

The mom at this point was crying almost uncontrollably and as the young soldier stood to his feet, he saluted Courtney and her mom. I was standing no more than 6 feet away from this entire event.

As the soldiers began to leave, heading towards their gate, people resumed their applause. As I stood there applauding and looked around, there were very few dry eyes, including my own. That young soldier in one last act of selflessness turned around and blew a kiss to Courtney with a tear rolling down his cheek.

We need to remember everyday all of our soldiers and their families and thank God for them and their sacrifices. At the end of the day, it's good to be an American.

RED FRIDAYS ----- Very soon, you will see a great many people wearing red every Friday. The reason? Americans who support our troops used to be called the 'silent majority'. We are no longer silent, and are voicing our love for God, country and home in record breaking numbers.

Our idea of showing solidarity and support for our troops with dignity and respect starts this Friday - and continues each and every Friday until the troops all come home, sending a deafening message that.. Every red-blooded American who supports our men and women afar will wear something red.

By word of mouth, press, TV -- let's make the United States on every Friday a sea of red much like a homecoming football game in the bleachers.

If every one of us who loves this country will share this with acquaintances, co-workers, friends, and family. It will not be long before the USA is covered in RED.
The first thing a soldier says when asked 'What can we do to make things better for you?' is.....We need your support and your prayers.

Let's get the word out and lead with class and dignity, by example.

March Giveaway Day 1

2011-03-14T09:12:00.002-06:00

Let's do this thing!

We're starting the month of March giveaway with a surprise. The winner will receive a YA novel- and since I have a few to choose from, we'll wait and see what the lucky winner gets.

We have some exciting things coming up over the next three weeks. Check in often for the latest bloggers who are getting in on the fun.

Today's giveaway requirements....

*tell me what genre of YA is your favorite- I'll try to match the winner up with a book that fits
*be a Very Cool Person (a follower of this blog)
*include your e-mail in your comment so I can contact you if you win

I'll draw the winner on Wednesday March 16 using random.org.

Just for fun

2011-03-10T09:15:00.002-07:00

I don't know why, but this song just hit me perfectly today. Life isn't always easy. Sometimes you have to go for it with all that you've got. That's my life.

From the words of Bon Jovi

This is for the ones who stood their ground
For Tommy and Gina who never backed down
Tomorrow's getting harder, make no mistake
Luck ain't even lucky, gotta make your own breaks

It's my life
And it's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just wanna live while I'm alive

Starting next week

2011-03-09T09:10:00.003-07:00

For those of you who have been paying attention, this is the month I'm doing a great big giveaway. My new book Wings of Light will be released April 8 and I am excited to kick it off with a bang.

We'll get the party started next week. You're going to want to keep checking back. New things will be up for grabs VERY OFTEN and you won't want to miss your chance to win.

What do you win?

Mostly books. I'm going to be giving away lots of books.

But I do have a grand prize of an IPOD shuffle that we'll be giving away at the end of our fling. My kids are so jealous.

In the meantime, you'll never guess what is keeping me so busy.... and no, it's not writing. St. Patrick's Day is next week! Next week! I can't believe it's so close. So much to do. It's like Christmas, except that instead of buying presents, I'm learning dances. And helping in the costume department. And like Christmas, when St. Patrick's Day is over, I'll be able to go back to my normally scheduled life.

Kind of. I mean, I still have to study like crazy for my TCRG exams. But I'll get to write again. Oh, how I miss it.

And, can you hear the choirs of angels singing, I get to go to writers conferences!!! I miss that so much. I'm still not over missing the LTUE. So I'm making up for it by going to the SCBWI conference in April, the LDStorymakers conference in May and the CONduit in May. I'll be presenting at the last two.

And what could be better than a new book to really get my spring going? Yeah, I'm excited for my new release. It's gonna be fun.

Okay, I'll see you guys here next week. International players allowed! Too bad I don't get to deliver the books in person.

Realities of Writing

2011-02-25T09:07:00.004-07:00

I was browsing through my facebook and ran across a friend's post where he laments yet another rejection. This one after the publisher showed initial interest. Oh, how I could relate.

But what really got me thinking was a comment posted underneath. "Your hobby sucks."
Sure, it's not delicate, but then the writing business is really no place for the delicate of heart. From an outside perspective- i.e. a nonwriter's perspective- it's completely true.

What other hobby can you spend literally hundreds of hours on and then have nothing to show for it but a flashdrive copy and something saved on your PC? It's not even up for public entertainment like a blog or website, or even an e-mail. No one sees it unless you put it in front of them and beg them to read.

Add to that the hundreds of dollars writers spend to hone their craft. Anyone serious about writing needs to understand the book business. While the internet is helpful, it can't replace writers conferences where you sit at the feet of experts and learn.

Okay, yes, there are exceptions to the rule. Some people- one or two every three decades- write their first novel and it becomes pure gold. After submitting their work to a grand total of 15 agents they are offered representation and shortly thereafter a six figure contract.
Can you say Cinderella? Only these Cinderella's actually exist.

But if you're a writer, you can't plan your future on being the next Cinderella.

In fact, one of the biggest factors of success in the writing business is persistence. Keep writing, editing and submitting. Regardless of how many people tell you "no", you don't give up.

And honestly, real writers can't give up because they're not writing for money. They're writing because they love doing it. Sure, we'll take a truckload of cash, but honestly, that's not why writers sit at the computer another day penning their thoughts and weaving another story.
It's simply part of who they are.
Yes- most writers face a lot of rejections.
Yes- writing is a solitary thankless job 99% of the time.
No- not every manuscript ends up as a published book.
No-you probably won't make enough money to support your family writing.

And really, it's better to face those realities before you commit your life to writing. But if you're like me, it wouldn't have mattered either way. I fell in love with writing and there's no turning back. I need it. I love it.

Does my hobby suck? Not to me. How could I ever say that? Some of the most profound moments have been when I see a child reading my book or getting e-mails from complete strangers thanking me for the story. How could I ever put a price on that? Even though I haven't sold a tremendous number of books yet, I have reached out and touched people from all over the world with my story- something that would have been impossible any other way.

And you will too. Or you already have.

That is the most important reality of writing.

Even so, I can't help wishing that my dream (the one where my agent finally sold my book) was a reality. I think every writer relates with the need for acceptance every once in a while. Sure, writers are supposed to have tough skin- and like it or not we grow it out of necessity. But underneath it all we're still dreamers hoping that one of these days we'll see a miracle contract.

Buttons and other Impossible Hurdles

2011-02-23T10:26:00.004-07:00

Okay, so maybe I'm the last person to finally learn how to do it, but I'm still going to celebrate. Today I made my first blog button.

Let's see, it took me two hours of wandering around aimlessly on the computer yesterday just to figure out how to make an image and save it. Then, let's face it, I still couldn't figure out how to make it into a "Grab it" button.

A big thanks to Rachelle Christensen who was kind enough to send me in the right direction. Seriously. She found people that speak English, not just html. I not only understood the directions, but wala! I have a button.

Okay, now I just need to get graphic savvy. Yeah, I pretty much am still wandering around aimlessly when it comes to an artistic flare on the computer. I'm going to have to study that one a little more.

But hey, I have some super cool stuff coming up in March. Thanks to some generous people, we are going to have a mega-book giveaway. We're talking something practically EVERY DAY. I'm still waiting to get all my ducks in a row before I let you all know the killer details, but I do know that you're not going to want to miss this.

Oh man, and I got my full cover today for Wings Of Light. It's completely amazing. Wow. It made me smile. And you're going to wait until the book is in your hands to see it. Sorry.

Okay, and the other impossible parts... March 17 is only three weeks away! Holy cow! I have a lot of dancing to catch up on. And, oh yeah, I was planning on FINISHING my work in progress book by the end of the month. We're talking Monday. I can do it. ha ha ha... I've been telling myself that all month. Well, I guess I better get off my blog and get busy.

2011-02-23T09:55:00.001-07:00

I'm Ready

2011-02-21T20:12:00.004-07:00

The Boise clogging competition is over. It was awesome, and honestly, a big sigh of relief to have that done.

I'm still grieving over the missed LTUE (Life the Universe and Everything) conference that I missed last week because I had to be in Idaho. Oh why can't I clone myself?

But now that the weekend is over, I'm starting to feel that before-Christmas excitement about my new book coming out. I'm ready. Waiting until April seems way too long.

And, I'm writing. I'm loving it. In a few months after I finish edits on this baby I'm sending it to my agent.
The writer side of me is waking up after a long winter. I'm ready for book signings, conferences and blog tours. I'm ready for a whole new slew of rejections from top publishers. Nothing like a rejection e-mail to start your day. Proof that you're a real writer.

Better yet, how 'bout a contract? I think I'm ready for that too.

Until then, I've got the Whitney Awards finalist s to read up on so I can vote. I love the excuse to read like crazy. There are some awesome books on the list this year. Seriously people, these are some of the best books published in 2010. Pick your favorite genre and get reading too.

Hmmm, I smell a month of giveaways coming right up. We have to celebrate Wings Of Light's debut.