A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: Happy Day Before the Crazies Attack The Retail Sto...

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: Happy Day Before the Crazies Attack The Retail Sto...: Yes!  It is that time of year again!  Time to rush out and, um, see your relatives... Yeah, that's it!  We won't mention that they h...

Happy Day Before the Crazies Attack The Retail Stores!!!

Yes!  It is that time of year again!  Time to rush out and, um, see your relatives... Yeah, that's it!  We won't mention that they happen to live not far from a Target store.  Do I think the workers should be at home with their loved ones, yes, I honestly do.  Do I need a vacuum (3rd one this year), yes, I do.  Can I afford to continue to buy them at a full price, no.  Seventy dollars or twenty-five?  hmmm.  I would rather they did it on Friday which, as the name implies, would make sense.  

To be truthful, I am more than likely going to pass this year.  Ten degrees is not exactly my idea of a fun time of it.  Last year I went by myself which was also no fun, but I only needed two items and got them both.

When did the greed factor become so high that businesses take people from their families on a day they should be able to stay with the ones they are thankful for?  Everything would still sell just as well on Friday as it does on Thursday.  

I have put out links to my children's book for anyone that is interested.  If you live nearby or even wish to mail me the book to sign any copies and personalize them, I would be more than happy to do so.  

And no, no writing today.  My daughter is still recovering but, as of yesterday is back home at her apartment with her little one.  Once the chaos has died down and the routine of the boys' is back, we should be good to go.  Weekly trips to Omaha are still there, but not as bad as they were.

So, I am now getting good sleep, eating better and am de-stressing, so prepare yourselves for an onslaught of questions and idea requests!!  lol!!

Question of the day - What are your thoughts on 'Grey Thursday'?

Quote of the day - "It will be a killer, and a chiller, and a thriller, when I get the gorilla in Manila." -Muhammad Ali

Have wonderful dreams, amazing rest and wake with a smile on your lips.  Good night!

I would love it if you would share your cutest Halloween pics! The more unique the better!!

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: IT's Saturday!!!: Okay, maybe it wasn't exciting enough for three exclamation points, but it was good.   First off, Saturdays are my repair days. This r...

IT's Saturday!!!

Okay, maybe it wasn't exciting enough for three exclamation points, but it was good.  

First off, Saturdays are my repair days. This round was the dishwasher (gorilla glue), the bathroom cabinet door (wood Gorilla glue), the door jamb strip (nails and Gorilla glue) and two of the hallway closet doors.  The third couldn't be fixed due to the hardware going awol.  

Second,  I do two loads of laundry a day.  Four on Saturday.  Add in a baby and a sick one to care for that requires a lot of towels and it goes up a bit!  

Third, BIRTHDAY PARTY TOMORROW!!!!   My grandson's first birthday is tomorrow and I am so blessed that he is with us!  Every day I thank God that his and my daughter's lives were spared in the accident.  He is so sweet and special and amazing.  He is truly a gift.

So, no writing today.  Plenty of living.  Plenty of prayer and a whole lot of patience.  But, no writing.  Tomorrow I will be starting a book for my Ayden.  Just a little one for little guys, but one that I hope I can read to him for years to come.

Instead of a question of the day, I have a request.  I would love it if you would share your cutest Halloween pics!  The more unique the better!!

Quote of the day- Caretaker from Ghost Rider: [voiceover]" It's said that the West was built on legends. And that legends are a way of understanding things greater than ourselves. Forces that shape our lives, events that defy explanation. Individuals whose lives soar to the heavens or fall to the earth. This is how legends are born."

Good night, my sweet Ayden.  Happiest of birthdays and dreams!  Good night, all!

Question of the day: If you have sons and daughters (or sisters), which do you think are the easier to raise?

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: Another surgery.  I am sure that otherwise that I ...: Another surgery.  I am sure that otherwise that I would have gotten at least a third of my story done. (Ducks down to avoid the lightning ...

Another surgery.  I am sure that otherwise that I would have gotten at least a third of my story done.

(Ducks down to avoid the lightning streaking right for me through the sky.) We went in for three (yes, three) separate doctor's appointments and the second doc called the third doc and instead of the third being two hours later, the third doc said to go, 'now'.  Within 2 hours she was in pre-op and going under.

If you have ever had to wait for a loved one for surgery you know that there is no concentrating on anything actually.  I don't think that I could write, let alone do any story plotting.  Oh, well.

So, if you are gone overnight and someone is watching the boys and when you get back the dishwasher is broken, the handle to the sink is broken, a panel from a wood cabinet door and beans on the ceiling is it considered that the babysitter was very effective?  I have to say, no.  Just the frustration of dealing with everything and extra people and all the housework and laundry has made me want to run around in circles and do the Tarzan yell.

OOOHHHHHMMMMM..  much better.

Boys, I have boys.  Boys, I have boys.

That is my new mantra.  Much less drama but, man oh man.  While girls need to come with manuals, boys should come with repair manuals.

Question of the day:  If you have sons and daughters (or sisters), which do you think are the easier to raise?

Quote of the day- “Where I'm from, we believe in all sorts of things that aren't true... we call it history.” 
― Gregory Maguire, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West

Good night and bless you!

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: I DID IT!!!

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: I DID IT!!!:  How do you relax and find normalcy?  What do you do to make the bleary, weary world that much better to face the next day?

I DID IT!!!

I did it!  I honestly thought about how I would like to be typing right now!  AAAAHHH!!!  

But, please, do not be mistaken.  It was only a thought.  I, in no way, took part in any writing or spent any effort to try to attempt to act on this particular urge.  My informal disclaimer.

However, I will admit that more than a twinge of sadness comes over me each time I am at the computer and could possibly have the time to write and instead end up on Facebook or something along those lines.  

My sister Kristen who is an amazing person and mother has three boys as well that she also does an excellent job homeschooling is the one reason I still even consider writing, though she may never know.  Her honesty and love have given me so much encouragement and made me feel like I could do so much more.  She is my cheering section.

Did you get out and enjoy today?

Well, the weather here has been beautiful.  Warm sunlight cutting through the canopies of leaves beaming down on us as we lay on the grass and read our lessons for the day.  Glancing around at the faces of my sons as they laugh or giggle at some line or other in our reading.  My youngest picking the grass lazily and letting it fall gently to the ground through his fingers.  The other two laying back with their arms behind their heads stretched out and gazing up at the sky.  It doesn't get much better than this.  This is a very acceptable trade off for not writing.  These are the days you cherish and treasure.  This little bit of heaven in the midst of chaos and havoc.  

Question of the day- How do you relax and find normalcy?  What do you do to make the bleary, weary world that much better to face the next day?

Quote of the day-“Sometimes the right thing feels all wrong until it is over and done with.” 
― Alice Hoffman, Practical Magic

"For my sister, Kristen."

Have a blessed night and take care, all!

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: I honestly have not forgotten!!!

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: I honestly have not forgotten!!!: Hiyeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!! I have not forgotten about you!!  I have just had a doozy of a month!  My daughter and grandson were in a scary c...

I honestly have not forgotten!!!

Hiyeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!

I have not forgotten about you!!  I have just had a doozy of a month!  My daughter and grandson were in a scary car accident.  My grandson escaped with only minor bruising.  My daughter was a completely different story.  Fractured and dislocated jaw which has required two surgeries and a fractured sacrum (pelvis part) which requires her to put no weight on it and various loose ligaments in her neck.

She is staying with me for the duration as she cannot lift my grandson and has other needs which need attending.

.......

Hows that for an excuse for not writing?  The hospital with her three specialists?  a hundred miles away, two hundred round trip.... we are up to 19 visits with who know how many more to go.  I just keep praying for the patience of Job and the Mines of Solomon!  lol!!  

I love them both so much and am just thankful that they are even still here with us.  The van flipped and twirled and pirouetted across a dark field with no highway lights at midnight.  We could not find them for almost an hour and emergency vehicles had floodlights and such out.  She was completely incoherent for the first part and when I finally got her to understand a bit about what was going on she was able to call 911 and then they could pinpoint her location.  It was a scary chunk of time, but find her, we did.  Worse for wear but still here and no injuries she couldn't recover from.  

Youth can be a gift and a hindrance.  Young enough to not realize and appreciate how blessed and lucky you are.  Add in the curse of impatience and the inability to see your own mortality and you have a recipe for disaster.  It will come with time and age and wisdom, but I think the rest of us can be thankful enough for everybody.

Question of the day:  What have you had happen to you in your life that made you feel truly blessed to be alive?

Quote of the day:Charlie Brown- "I think I’m losing control of the whole world."

Hug someone you love tonight.  Call someone you haven't talk to in a while and tell them how much they mean to you.  Never go to bed angry.  Good Night

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: It's Fall!!! No more heatstroke!!!

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: It's Fall!!! No more heatstroke!!!: It was a sultry night.... Love that movie.  First off, today's question of the day.  A little unusual I know, but it has been an unusu...

It's Fall!!! No more heatstroke!!!

It was a sultry night....

Love that movie.  First off, today's question of the day.  A little unusual I know, but it has been an unusual day.

Question: What movie is that a quote from and referenced to?  

So.  Okay. It is NOT a sultry night.  It is cold, chilly and lackluster.  We cuddled on the couch for school today and covered history, reading, english class and math.  No better way, I think, to enjoy the freedom of homeschooling.  

Writing is going to get easier and more interesting!!!  I found my case holding all of the previous versions and pages of my large opus!!  AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!  I even found the original outline that I made back in my freshman year of high school.  I am so excited!!

This is it!  I have so very much looked everywhere for this.  I lost it in the basement of our old house and have not seen it since.  It turns up, of all places, under my desk with a collection of other cases and computers no longer working.  How does this happen?  Lol!!

It ain't exactly little!

Now, for the writing excuse- not enough duct tape to keep the kids down long enough to reach the keyboard.  Bwahaahaahahaha!!

Seriously, my little monsters are my heart and wouldn't have the chaos, wall drawings or tree swinging any different!!  They drive me crazy and send me into hysterics, but never fail to bring a smile to my face.

I thought I would share a recipe with you guys tonight.  It is a drink that I take most mornings and it truly does keep you well and suppress your appetite as well as clear the skin right up.  At least, it does for me.  I will not write a whole disclaimer hear about making health claims and such, just sharing something that works for me.  Do not let the cider vinegar put you off because the other ingredients mask the flavor.

Morning Tea

1tbs honey (raw or organic is best)
1tbs cinnamon
1 1/2 tbs fresh lemon juice
2 tbs apple cider vinegar

Just put it all into a cup and add 16 0z water and let steep for 3-5 minutes and drink.  I do not recommend adding ice to cool it as the honey and the cinnamon work together to make this icky clear sludge.  Ugh!  

Also, one little disclaimer:  It does not aid in helping you complete your book!

Quote of the day:  "Artie, things just got cray-cray!" -Pete, Warehouse 13.


If you have never seen that show, it is really good!

Goodnight and God be with you all!

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: Doggy Doggy where's your home?

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: Doggy Doggy where's your home?: You might remember a certain lovable scruffy mutt having entered our homes this week.  Well.  We found the family.  I had the boys take the ...

Doggy Doggy where's your home?

You might remember a certain lovable scruffy mutt having entered our homes this week.  Well.  We found the family.  I had the boys take the dog on a walk hoping that if the family were out they would see him, and they did.  

I had to wake up my sleeping five year old to tell his new found best friend goodbye...  Not a dry eye.  I was so proud of him.  He wanted to cry so badly but loudly proclaimed that he was just happy hat the puppy found his family.  My heart broke and was filled with pride all at the same time.  

The dumbfounded look on his face when the family turned to him and asked if he wanted to keep him was priceless!  I could hardly believe what I was hearing!  They feared for his safety by the busy road and saw how much the boys had bonded.  

The horrible part, the kids there had taken care of him since he was a puppy and were heartbroken.  But they knew that since I had almost hit him in the road that it just wasn't safe and loved him enough to let him go.  I think we were all pretty teary eyed at that point.  I was about to simply say 'no' when she said that they had been looking out for somewhere for him before he was hit like their last dog in the same spot even.  

Again, thank you Lisa and kids for entrusting us with your little guy and we will do our best to take care of him and show him all the love we can.

Natalie, hilariously, though- The name you picked worked beautifully and guess why?  You suggested Roscoe, his actual name is Oscar.  And that is how Nik (5 yr/o) pronounces it.  

Nope.  Not a lick of writing today, but some life lessons that are incomparable can take prescience, right?

Question of the day- What is a life lesson your child, sibling or niece or nephew has had that you were able to witness?  

Quote of the day -

Han Cho Bai: [about Frank] " I'm going to enjoy killing him. Get me a gun that really hurts."

It's just beautiful.  I look at this and think of it as being made of ice.  

Have a good one guys!  God be with you all.

"Has anyone come up with any Victorian Era names for distinguished women/gods? I want to hear from you! HELP!!"

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: Little bit of writing, lot a bit of fun!: Hi, all!   I was able to have my grandson for most of the afternoon and early evening today and as much as I miss the cooing and laughs, I...

Little bit of writing, lot a bit of fun!

Hi, all!  

I was able to have my grandson for most of the afternoon and early evening today and as much as I miss the cooing and laughs, I am very happy that my youngest is 5 now and things are settling down.  I don't think I could keep up!  lolol!

Not withstanding the obvious cute interruption, I was able to get a paragraph or two done on the children's book.  I was happy with how it was going and then I had my daughter read it and her too-cool-to-smile most of the time self actually giggled during part of it!  Heeeheeeheee.  I was as giddy as a kid in a candy store.

As for the opus work, well, I think tomorrow I will plot it out and see where I want it to go.  I think that is part of it.  I can see the parts I have written as clearly as if they were scenes in a movie.  My dilemma is that past where I left off, there is nothing.  I had a clear view in mind (or at least a quasi-destination) for it while I was writing.  I think that is what is holding me back. So maybe just a day or two of rereads and grammar checks and such would not only refresh it, but give me a new perspective as well.

Well, the dog is still with us.  He is potty trained as far as we can tell.  He spends all day glued to my lap, tripping me up or the same with my 5 year old.  The very first name we were given was the very first time that all three boys agreed on a name.  (Thank you Natalie!)  

And when your son walks up to you and brings you a bowl with what looks like pork and beans with ground beef and ketchup in it...it probably is and you should directly go find a Maalox or two..

Question of the day-"Has anyone come up with any Victorian Era names for distinguished women/gods?  I want to hear from you!  HELP!!"

Quote of the Day- "Miranda Priestly: ...You have no sense of fashion...

                            Andy Sachs: I think that depends on...

                            Miranda Priestly: No, no, that wasn't a question."

He is my baby.  Always will be.  He's five already...sniff sniff sniff  :(

Happy birthday, my love.  Daddy would have been so proud of you.

Gods blessings to you all!

New member of the family! What off the wall male movie character name can you come up with for our cuticus mutticus?

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: New member of the family!: Hi, all!! Yesterday was one of those days where you stop and know that God has directly intervened for whatever the reason.   So, I&#...

New member of the family!

Hi, all!!

Yesterday was one of those days where you stop and know that God has directly intervened for whatever the reason.  

So, I'm driving along a side street and this dog comes out in front of the car and sits down.  I'm going slow enough that I can stop, thank goodness.  I honk the horn to try and get him out of the road, he just tilts his head to the side.  I get out, go around the car and try to shoo him off but he runs under the car.  I go around to the other side and look under, and he is not there.  I look around the grassy area and nothing.   I then proceed to get back into the car, close the door and I hear something.  In the passenger seat is the dog- calmly sitting and waiting on me to drive!  

It was late enough I didn't feel comfortable with knocking on doors so I posted that he was found and am waiting to hear from anyone.  I am not thinking that anyone is going to be calling.  He was so matted, his claws too long and a blanket of fleas.  

Yes, I drove home with this smelly little fluffball's head on my chest and paws in my lap.  Yes, I picked up dog food and a leash and collar.  Yes, the boys are completely head over heels in love.  Ugh... So am I..

Well, the good news is he is house trained.  The bad news is we are going to have to reteach him a name having no clue as to what his actual name is.  He isn't coming to the three or four different names that the boys are coming up with and shouting out to be heard over their brothers' picks.  

So, the answer is, no.  No writing today.  Not even a complete thought.  Not a dry cheek in the house (he's a licker..big time).

Question of the day- What off the wall male movie character name can you come up with for our cuticus mutticus?  All suggestions are appreciated.  And keep in mind, he is a dog like Benji but colored like Toto.

Quote of the day- "A dog teaches a boy fidelity, perseverance, and to turn around three times before lying down."

—Robert Benchley

Glad the cats hate the dog more than the dog even notices the cats....

Peace be with you all and God bless!

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: Battleship and sinking ships...

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: Battleship and sinking ships...: I don't really know who won or who lost.  I think technically the 8 year old won because he sunk my battleship and one other.  I only ha...

Battleship and sinking ships...

I don't really know who won or who lost.  I think technically the 8 year old won because he sunk my battleship and one other.  I only had one of his and was desperately searching for others.  Oh, the humanity!!  I think he was distracted just a bit and then wandered off.  So, did I win by forfeit or did he win and just cut his losses?  I'm confused...

Herbert now has some structure in his life.  The silly fly I have been writing about has been now placed in the crux of his issues and will be flying in no time, I feel.  (You have to have read a previous blog to know what this refers to, so feel free....lol!

So, still no suggestions for a few archaic names.  Grecian will do, as well.  I do not like the names I have for my 4 women originals in my opus. A brief synopsis: It is a sci fi style novel that includes the originals from a planet trying to take control of other realms using various forms.  But by the forms rules, not theirs.  These will be the only four women in power, though.

Question of the day-Did I lose or was it just sad on my part?  lol!

Quote of the day-"Daniel: When do I learn how to punch?

                                      Miyagi: Better learn balance. Balance is key. Balance good, karate good.                                                   Everything good. Balance bad, better pack up, go home.                                                             Understand?"

                                           Learn, grasshopper, learn all you can!

Good night and God's blessings, everyone!

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: No writing, but, isn't life fun!!

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: No writing, but, isn't life fun!!: LOL!!  I can tell you that life changes and grows and twists on a roller coaster downhill and uphill minute by minute and I would not be tel...

No writing, but, isn't life fun!!

LOL!!  I can tell you that life changes and grows and twists on a roller coaster downhill and uphill minute by minute and I would not be telling you anything new.  Yesterday, frogs loose in the living room, day before, worms in the washer, day before that-most of a bat in the hall, today-mouse parts under the table.  I have cats who love to show me how much they love me.

If anything, we have no shortage of specimens for science class.

Writing today, not so much.  We got a new sofa sleeper couch and it was almost impossible to get them to concentrate on anything after that.  You would think the mouse spleen would have been much more interesting.

So, Herbert (the main character in the latest children's book) has issues.  Many flies who are scared to fly do.  But, hey, we are not here to judge.  I just haven't determined if there is enough here to make this into a junior book or if the subject matter is interesting enough to stretch it out.  I'll figure it out, I guess.

I am looking for name suggestions for three archaic characters.

Question of the day- "What would you be willing to do if you had the opportunity to be able to fly?"

Quote of the day-
"Dan Mott: What are you doing?

Jerry Conlaine: Taking off my shoes

Dan Mott: Why?

Jerry Conlaine: Because I run faster with no shoes

Dan Mott: You can't out-run that bear!

Jerry Conlaine: I dont have to out-run the bear, I just have to out-run you!"

"Just Breathe.."

Have a most blessed evening, all

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: Happy Labor Day!!

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: Happy Labor Day!!: For all of those who fought for our current rights and wages, for all of those who lost so much just to earn a living for their families- Th...

Happy Labor Day!!

For all of those who fought for our current rights and wages, for all of those who lost so much just to earn a living for their families- Thank you.

We had a cook out today and had sock battles and played games and watched some mighty impressive Dr. Who.  The boys just found out Dr. River Song is Amelia's daughter....Lost? It's ok, a lot of people are.

Well, I got to do some writing today for my children's book but have yet to get back into the swing of my larger opus.  I would like to start over and take my notes and such and just start from there.  I would love to lunge back into it, but have just been too far removed to do so.

The children's book ideas come so easy, but I know it is just a way to distract me.  I don't think I am going to feel whole or productive until I have started on it again.  My kids take up so much of my time, but I have to admit that I don't fight for very much of my own, either.

Question of the day- If you have to be crazy to think you are crazy, does that sound crazy?  LOL!  Really though the question is - What are some ways you have found that help you keep from procrastinating?

Quote of the day- “You want weapons? We’re in a library! Books! The best weapons in the world!”
— The Doctor, Season 2, Episode 2

Definitely a crazy man in a blue box.

Have an amazing night, everybody!

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: 2 rejections...4 to go

A Writer Writes...well, sometimes: 2 rejections...4 to go: Well, heard from two of the publishers.  "Not what we are looking for", "Maybe at a later date", etc...  Oh, well.  I wo...

2 rejections...4 to go

Well, heard from two of the publishers.  "Not what we are looking for", "Maybe at a later date", etc...  Oh, well.  I won't get depressed until the last one comes in.  Hope springs eternal.  ( I will try to convince myself of this).

How in the world am I supposed to concentrate and write when I am nervous like this?!?!

TOTALLY unrelated-  Have any of you ever gone on a dating website?  I was just rejected by kermit the frogs shorter, grey cousin.  REALLY!?!?!  He said he was never married on his profile (referred to his wife the entire evening), 5'4" (he might have been 5 foot with the shoes) and kept pointing to the seat next to him as his ex girlfriend while regaling me with stories of how much contact he still has with her dad.  Oh, and the reason the marriage didn't work?  After six months she decided that she  was going to tell him he had to help around the house more and help take care of her two kids.  Hmm... did he really just say that to a woman with five kids?  Really?  Ugh.  At least if he was a decent frog I could have kissed him and found a prince.  Just sayin'.

So my question of the day- Have you had any luck on internet dating sites and if so, which ones?

Quote of the day- "But I never saw the good side of the city, 'Til I hitched a ride on a river boat queen." -Creedence Clearwater Revival (Proud Mary)

One final thought, if the entire Earth were painted black, would aliens still be able to know it is there?

Suggestions?

Suggestions?  Any would be great. I have gotten to where I just don't have it in me to write anymore.  I have tons of ideas, just no motivation to do anything with it.  I am in the firm grip of the blahs and just want to get out of it.  I have tried funny movies, getting out in the sun, playing with the boys....nothing.  

Loneliness is a determining factor in what you can accomplish.  It is hard to have a discussion with yourself about the last joke you heard at the movies.  Not impossible, just remarkably harder.  My idea bouncer-off-er is not there anymore.  It is hard to try to continue to write with no other input but your own.  At least for me.

Question of the day - How many great ideas does it take to get anything done?

Quote- "I ask for so little.  Just fear me, love me, do as I say and I will be your slave."  -Jareth

Had such a crush on him!!  Lol!


Good night and God's blessings on you all!
Tanya

Just thought I'd Check in...

Good Afternoon!  I thought I would just check and see how everyone was doing?  I see quite a few people have visited, I thank exuberantly!   

So, one letter of rejection came, and no word from the others yet.  But that is alright, I guess.. No news is sometimes good news, right?

It is a beautiful, breezy day and a wood pecker is trying my nerves for two hours now.  Peck, peck, peck.... Lol!!  

So, since I last wrote this, I have done absolutely no writing.  None.  Nada.  Zilch.   Zip.  I just can't bring myself to find time to to do it.  Summer is here which is always much more inspirational than winter, but, the kids want to run around and play with me, they want to go on walks and go to the park and such.  Not a bad thing at all, just distracting.

Question of the day:  What is your favorite relaxing ritual?  Is it to read in a certain spot, climb a wall or what have you?

Quote of the day- "If you are going to fail at something, remember you can fail at hat you don't want to do, or, you can fail trying to do something that you love."  - Jim Carey

I have no idea who this little guy is, but I highly suspect his father had something to do with this!

Have a great weekend, all!

Tanya

paralegal eagle

I am now a paralegal eagle.  No, I am not a paralegal.  I am now well versed in the job descriptions for at least five different paralegal assistant's duties.  Better than the 80,000 word ebook on building decks.  Geesh.

I have come to realize that my sons may not be 'normal'.  Okay, I think that mostly anyone who meets us would definitely agree that we do not fit the cookie cuter mold of normal.  And I kinda like that.  In fact, I am not really sure what I would do with them if they were normal.  I spent the day teaching iron man, a dragon and a nerf fighter.  Did you know Iron man has troubles counting to 20?  The dragon cannot fly from the fourth stair from the bottom of the stairway and the nerf fighter has bad aim past 10 feet? Well, obviously other than the counting, these are not normally courses that are covered during our school day.  Though, they do try quite often.  They normally don't get to wear their costumes to school, but it was kind of a reward for having done a pretty good job for the first half of the week.

I now have a more long term writing job from the same individual and am enjoying it.  Well, as much as you can enjoy typing all day.  I do love to type, but I would rather have a slightly different subject to write about.

I had no umph today to any writing, as expected.  We did have a picnic by a historic bridge in the next town over and enjoyed a little creek we found there.

Excuse #14 - Sunshine on my shoulder!  Just loving it up today!

Question of the day- Can anyone tell me the historical story of the bridge in Pender, Nebraska?

"What I am is what I am.  Are you what you are, or, what?"  -Edie Brickell

Lovely Lady in the Red Hat.  I always wonder if she was just caught off guard or something that was said surprised her.

Have a most blessed night,

Tanya

Writing gig and baby prayers

Okay, so its not much, but I just finished a day gig for my freelance work and I think the guy is looking for more of a regular basis type work.  Yay me!  It's not rocket science, but the pay is better than the average (though still kinda low)  but at least it's work.

On a more serious note.  Could you all keep my grandson, Ayden in your prayers?  He is going in for a rather serious surgery and we all love him so much.  He has gone through so much already, but he and his momma are an unstoppable team and I am so proud of them both.  I love the way she is approaching it not as a 'poor poor little guy'  but like a champ and a warrior.  Some of his issues are simply a part of him.  They don't make him any less, they make him more than he could be!  She is just...amazing.

Writing was kind of put on hold today due to the whole writing job thing.  But, I am not one to look a gift horse in the mouth.  Money is money and is always appreciated, honey!  Lol!!

And, guess what?  No, really,guess...No?  Okay, so I finally got the rest of my submissions for this round mailed off!!  Yay, again!  I am going to look for another list of possibles next week. I don't think my nerves could take another one this week!

Excuse #13 - A few extra bucks in my pocket for the circus couldn't hurt too much, right?

Question of the day- "How come nobody comments on my blog?"  lol

“Amy Pond, there’s something you’d better understand about me ‘cause it’s important, and one day your life may depend on it: I am definitely a mad man with a box!” - The Doctor

(Shameless plug for my grandson, Ayden!)  Love you little guy!

Goodnight,all.

Tanya

The squirrels is twitterpated!!!

Twitterpated little squirrels are running everywhere!!!  A couple seemed to have lost their nuts.  Gosh.  There is also this insane woodpecker that only knocks on the trees during meal times.  That's pretty cool.  Niki, my four year old, runs out there full tilt to watch him peck at the tree and then scolds the boys for being too loud and scaring him off!

Not much writing done today.  There was just too much sunshine and too much boy!  We had so much fun today in school.  If you weren't aware, my two oldest sons have Aspergers.   Any day we can have a good day at school all the way across the board is amazing.  I just went with it.

I know that there are different strokes for different strokes, but...  Okay, we were covering types of poetry today. We were studying sound poetry.  Now, I do not know if you have ever listened to or even heard of sound poetry before, but... I tried.  Um... it seems to be a version of scat in jazz only done in a poetic form.

.....I don't think I would say that I am a fan, but having to scrape my son off of the floor who was rolling around in stitches on the floor.  I do not think he appreciated the..artistic quality of it all.  I also think it may be a while before the pain in his side from laughing is gone.

Question of the day- Could you please share a haiku poem on here for everyone?  5-7-5!

"I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul."  - William Ernest Henley

This is just-scary.  I like the Madea movies, but, wow...

Despite the image have a great night.

Tanya

This House is Clean

How are you doing today?  Well, I for one, have gotten to the point where I am starting to get a handle on the house thanks to a couple good days of weather.  Boys outside mean clean house inside. For me a clean house means a clear mind.  Thus...

LOTS OF WRITING!!!

Not anything in particular, though, unfortunately.  More ideas, story line and character development.  Blah, blah, blah blah blah.....

Anywho, we had a nice quiet Sunday at home since we missed church.  I cleaned the kitchen, they dirtied the kitchen.  I cleaned the living room, they dirtied the dining room.  I cleaned the dining room, they got sent out to play in the yard.  I finally got caught up to a certain degree.

I have a character I am working on that is a bit, well, odd.  He has taken on the form of a six foot tall amazon type woman who is preparing to give birth from her back.  Freeeaakkkyy, right?  Well, I gotta tell you, trying to figure out the logistics on that while preserving the form is a bit much.

Question of the day -  Instead of me asking a question today, is there anything you would like to know?  I'm a pretty much open book, so I would welcome your inquiries.  I look forward to your questions!

" I close my eyes only for a moment, and the moment's gone."  - Kansas

Take care and have a good night,

Tanya

My late husband and my first three went and saw this in Michigan.  It is the World's largest Man eating clam.  They all posed in front of it and behaved as though the clam was attacking them.  That was a good day.

Do I get my nap now?

I want a nap.  I want to be grounded and sent to my room for the rest of the day.  Please?

Oh, well.  It was worth a try.  

Today was a great lazy day kind of Saturday.  The boys seemed to be marginally normal which is not normal.  They went to the park and I wrote.  They played in the den, and I wrote.  They walked to the store, and I watched the Conjuring.  If you have not seen this movie I am telling you it is awesome.  It is the only movie to actually scare me in a very long time.  Post Stephen King.  Watch something funny afterwards to get it out of your system,though.

So, again, I only really did rewrites but it was something.  I actually started to get lost in the story again.  I forgot how much I enjoyed the characters.

Today my question is ....well...I guess I just am starting to lose umph.  No one comments on here so it just becomes a sounding board for my own ramblings.  There are 'likes' and people are reading.  As of today there have been over 700 views of my blog.  But no one adds it, follows me or comments.  I actually do want to hear what your answers are.  They are not rhetorical.  Your interest is important to me.  

So, I guess my question would be -  Have you ever watched Lawrence Welk and danced or bopped along with it?  My daughters and sons have danced together in extravagant costumes and whirled and twirled with skirts billowing around them.  My oldest son was their partner.  They're too old for this now, but my sons still have me as a partner.

“When I was your age, television was called books.” 
― William Goldman, The Princess Bride

The beautiful Overlook Hotel from 'The Shining'.   Love this.

Take care, all.

Tanya

Ugh! It's just too bright out!!

Snow.  Again.  I am working on the last vestiges of a migraine that is just clinging on with it's long, red talons.  Ugh.  The snow outside didn't help.  

On a lighter note... Do you like my new page design!?!?  I kinda lost the 'like' button after I did it, but it only took an hour to get it back this time.  I thought it needed some freshening up.

So.  SEVEN PAGES!!  I rewrote and edited seven pages today.  I probably shouldn't have with my head being icky, but I really felt drawn in.  It is a sci-fi/horror book that is currently at 256 pages long.  This has been in the making since my freshman year of high school.  Talk about procrastination.  It was only a few dozen pages long at the time.  Years later after I was married, I pulled it out again.  My late husband read it and, being a sci fi geek, he went berserkers!!  I couldn't believe it.  No one had ever read it before then and only one person has read it since.  (Honestly, I think she just skimmed and pretended to read it, as she had no clue as to what my questions meant. She was more of a romance novel type.)

Well, my sons were stuck in the house again due to the weather.  Combine that with a drum set for the four year old, forty questions from the eight year old and piano lessons for the thirteen year old and the headache doesn't seem so surprising anymore.

My youngest has the wonderful habit of coming in to my bed each night and pretty much wrapping himself around my head and shoulders complete with full head embrace.  This is the main trigger for my headaches. I love him and love to cuddle, but the migraines are a bit much.  How do I tell him no?  I have begun to be a bit more forceful in getting him to at least pull back to my side and shoulders.  I need to keep a pry bar next to my bed on my nightstand to get him off during the night.

Excuse #12  - I did write, but not as much as I would have liked to have.  I also should have sent off the other emails.  But, do you know what havoc a computer screen plays on your head?!?

Question of the day - How do/did you get your child to stop coming in to your bed every night?

"A common mistake that people make when trying to design something completely foolproof is to underestimate the ingenuity of complete fools." - Douglas Adams

Goodnight, all!

Tanya

Loving C. S. Lewis

Right now, as two of my boys lay rolled up in blankies in the living room for a sort of camp out, they are listening to C. S. Lewis' The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.  It is a wonderful reading I found on YouTube.  

We found the neatest barber in town who does the most amazing job on the boy's hair.  They have thirty thousand cowlicks and their dad's crooked part.  He thinned here, trimmed here and cut there and I ended up with three very handsome boys.  And I didn't have to do it!  I have every intention of taking them there from now on!  NO more wiggling, giggling boys writhing about under very sharp instruments of torture!

In regards to the writing:  I did it!  I sent off yet another manuscript and am hoping you cross your fingers, toes and eyes for me along with many, many prayers that these are met with acceptance.  I have several kids books that were written for my boys, but, again, that whole procrastinating thing was (and is) still going on.  One book at a time, guys.  I should have done it sooner, but - there it is!
I did try.  You know.  W -R-I-T-I-N-G.  I did submit the manuscript AND manage to run a load in the dishwasher!  

I don't know if you knew it, but I homeschool my boys.  Today was the day that we needed bright sunshine to throw them outdoors for recess but instead had a slushy rain fall.  They are stir crazy, I am manic trying to keep everything clean behind them.  The difference with homeschooling:  There is no catchup time.  The mess continues throughout the entire day....

Maybe if I just duct taped them to the ceiling, but then I would have to climb a ladder to clean the ceiling.  LOL!

Excuse #11  -  Too much rain, and too much boy.  I know I stated that rain is good for my writing, but that is not what this is!  This is just Poe-depressing.

Today's question - Should the Narnia series be changed to chronological order from its original order with Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe being the first?  

"Every night, before he turned in, he would write in the book. He wrote about things he had done, things he had seen, and thoughts he had had. Sometimes he drew a picture. He always ended by asking himself a question so he would have something to think about while falling asleep." -The Trumpet of the Swan  E. B.White


Good night, you!

Tanya