I am so glad that we are in warmer weather. Kids are home from school. The evenings are more active with youth softball and other activities.
Yet
Somehow we get bored. In the area where I live, we are 121 miles from the nearest mall. The small towns in our area manage to put together great activities for everyone.
The first weekend of June, Miami, TX has their national cow calling event. They have a 5K and 1 mile run with the cows. (akin to running with the bulls?)
and a steak cook-off with a band and some singers. There is cowboy church and The Follies!
Be sure to go to The Follies on Friday! It features local singers, great costumes, and a lot of fun. It will be worth your time. If you don't know where Miami, TX is, google it and find out.
This week I am interviewing Sherry Polf. I spoke briefly with Sherry at the North Texas Book Festival at Denton, TX.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Sherrilyn Polf...A Matter of Trust, Engineers of Flight Series
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I am pleasant and interesting (I hope)
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
When I was about eleven. I had ateacher who made writing fun. Don't remember the teacher's name though.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Storytelling.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes.
6. What are you reading right now?
A Trail of Broken Promises by Jess Davon Joslin, The Cat Who Said Cheese by Lilian Jackson Braun and The KJ Bible.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes. It's the second of a trilogy... If In Doubt...Believe. It should go to the Publisher by Summer. The time span runs from August 1940 to October 1941. It continues the story of Dena and her engineer friends dealing with blueprints, formulas and general world problems. It also tells of her spiritual growth along with her maturing.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Not having enough time. Schedule more effectively.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Stanford University is out of reach for most Colorado teens in 1939. The opportunity to gain an education there is beyond nineteen-year-old Dena Caulter’s wildest rural dreams. Yet Uncle Walter, a professor at the prestigious university, extends an open door to his home as well as the Howard Hughes Aeronautics program, and Dena is more than willing to spread her wings. Upon arriving in California, Dena feels her rustic roots showing but easily adapts to a more sophisticated lifestyle alongside her cousins, Emily and Stuart. Life may be offering opportunities and fun Dena never thought existed, but her naïve world is about to get a huge dose of reality. Uncle Walter is chosen to work with Howard Hughes in Virginia as part of an elite, top secret team working on NACA technology, and the move threatens to break up the family with the mention of an unfathomable divorce. Talk of war also breaks up the previously pleasant conversations and laughter that once provided the soundtrack for gatherings between Dena and friends. With opinions voiced, she worries that the boy she secretly crush on—Clay—will be whisked away before she gets the chance to truly know him. Even her beloved brother wants to join a war effort she has yet to understand, and her younger sister decides to marry straight out of high school. Studying blueprints no longer offers the intriguing escape it once held for Dena. Struggling to find balance in a life moving faster than one of Mr. Hughes’ airplanes, she must hold on to the Christian values her mother always instilled in her youth, especially when the bright future of her friends and family begins to dim under the threat of war and A Matter of Trust.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. sherpolf@ptsi.net or www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore or at any major bookstore, amazon.com and ebay.
Showing posts with label tate publishing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tate publishing. Show all posts
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
The Old Account Was Settled Long Ago
Today is the deadline to file your income tax in the USA. Yep, I said it. Sorry if it panics you. I have found that working in a tax/accountant office during tax season is a great way to study people.
In January, people come in and file expecting a refund. In February and early March the waiting room is jammed with people wanting the work done ASAP. In April...things are different. Beginning with April 10 or so it gets pretty busy, but few are expecting a refund. There is a reason for the procrastination. As April 15 dawns upon us many businesses file extentions. The truth is, THERE IS A DEADLINE.
You will notice that the title of this post is "The Old Account Was Settled Long Ago". Let me wax spiritual here. This is a song we sang at church when I was a kid. "There was a time on earth, when in the books of heaven, an old account was standing for sins yet unforgiven. My name was at the top and many things below. I went unto the keeper, and settled long ago. Long ago, long ago, yes the old account was settled long ago; and the record's clear today, for He washed my sins away, when the old account was settled long ago."
I want to remind you that one day the "deadline" will come. For some of us it will be our death. For some it will be when Jesus comes back. Consider doing your business with God before it is too late.
This week I am interviewing Linda Wiggins-Edwards. You will want to read this interview with a real live scientist!!!!
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Linda Wiggins-Edwards and the name of my upcoming book will be "God's Angels in I Am Beautiful" TM
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I think readers would find it interesting to know that I'm a trained scientist. I have a B.S. in Biology and a M.S. in Medical Sciences. I've previously worked in research & in the diagnostics industry. I also have an education background. I've owned two tutorial services, and I've also been a classroom teacher, teaching 4th & 6th grade science, and 9th grade advanced algebra & Biology. Even though these have been my career choices, I've always made a hobby of writing, ever since I was a little girl. I've written stories, plays, poetry, and started writing children's books for the last 7 - 8 years.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
As I said, I've always made a hobby of writing, ever since I was a little girl. However, I didn't think of publishing any of my work until my husband read a poem that I had written for our youngest daughter when she was born. When he read it, he told me how good it was, and that I could turn it into a children's book. I thought about it for about 6 months to a year, before I really believed that he could be right. Once I decided to really pursue this, I re-wrote the poem into a story and began submitting it to publishers. What happened next however, caused me to stop writing for a while, because it made me feel as if my writing was not any good. I submitted my work to agents and publishers, and started getting one rejection letter after another. Once that happened, I stopped writing, even though I had several stories in progress by that time. It took until I submitted my work to Tate Publishing for me to realize what I had been doing wrong all along. I was submitting my work to publishers that published children's books, but I wasn't specifically looking for a Christian publisher. This is what made all the difference in the world. Once I realized that my purpose was to write Christian children's books and that I needed to find a Christian publisher, my work got accepted immediately, and I've been blessed with being able to write again, with a renewed spirit.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I think my strongest point is being able to write about Christian values, and to honor & glorify God through my writing, but to be able to do it at a level that a young child will be able to understand.
5. Are you a reader?
Absolutely. I've always loved reading. A good writer must also be a good reader.
6. What are you reading right now?
A book called "Hearing God's Voice" by Henry and Richard Blackaby.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes. I have the one that is currently being published, and I've already completed another one and I'm in the process of finishing a 3rd. The 2nd one is about children as God's gifts and the 3rd one is about a parent's love.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I guess my biggest obstacle is being able to focus on what I'm writing at the moment. So many times while I'm writing one book, I get great ideas for other books and then I have to switch to another document to write down my notes and ideas, and then come back to the first book that I was writing. It doesn't cause me too many problems though because I always pray when I write, to make sure that I stay focused, and that I write about the things that God wants me to say.
9. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
When my book is complete (which will be in about 6 months or so), readers will be able to purchase my book from the Tate Publishing website. I am also in the process of building my own website, blog and Facebook fan page, so readers will be able to also find my book and more information about my books on these. These will become active once I have the illustrations completed for my book.
In January, people come in and file expecting a refund. In February and early March the waiting room is jammed with people wanting the work done ASAP. In April...things are different. Beginning with April 10 or so it gets pretty busy, but few are expecting a refund. There is a reason for the procrastination. As April 15 dawns upon us many businesses file extentions. The truth is, THERE IS A DEADLINE.
You will notice that the title of this post is "The Old Account Was Settled Long Ago". Let me wax spiritual here. This is a song we sang at church when I was a kid. "There was a time on earth, when in the books of heaven, an old account was standing for sins yet unforgiven. My name was at the top and many things below. I went unto the keeper, and settled long ago. Long ago, long ago, yes the old account was settled long ago; and the record's clear today, for He washed my sins away, when the old account was settled long ago."
I want to remind you that one day the "deadline" will come. For some of us it will be our death. For some it will be when Jesus comes back. Consider doing your business with God before it is too late.
This week I am interviewing Linda Wiggins-Edwards. You will want to read this interview with a real live scientist!!!!
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Linda Wiggins-Edwards and the name of my upcoming book will be "God's Angels in I Am Beautiful" TM
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I think readers would find it interesting to know that I'm a trained scientist. I have a B.S. in Biology and a M.S. in Medical Sciences. I've previously worked in research & in the diagnostics industry. I also have an education background. I've owned two tutorial services, and I've also been a classroom teacher, teaching 4th & 6th grade science, and 9th grade advanced algebra & Biology. Even though these have been my career choices, I've always made a hobby of writing, ever since I was a little girl. I've written stories, plays, poetry, and started writing children's books for the last 7 - 8 years.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
As I said, I've always made a hobby of writing, ever since I was a little girl. However, I didn't think of publishing any of my work until my husband read a poem that I had written for our youngest daughter when she was born. When he read it, he told me how good it was, and that I could turn it into a children's book. I thought about it for about 6 months to a year, before I really believed that he could be right. Once I decided to really pursue this, I re-wrote the poem into a story and began submitting it to publishers. What happened next however, caused me to stop writing for a while, because it made me feel as if my writing was not any good. I submitted my work to agents and publishers, and started getting one rejection letter after another. Once that happened, I stopped writing, even though I had several stories in progress by that time. It took until I submitted my work to Tate Publishing for me to realize what I had been doing wrong all along. I was submitting my work to publishers that published children's books, but I wasn't specifically looking for a Christian publisher. This is what made all the difference in the world. Once I realized that my purpose was to write Christian children's books and that I needed to find a Christian publisher, my work got accepted immediately, and I've been blessed with being able to write again, with a renewed spirit.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I think my strongest point is being able to write about Christian values, and to honor & glorify God through my writing, but to be able to do it at a level that a young child will be able to understand.
5. Are you a reader?
Absolutely. I've always loved reading. A good writer must also be a good reader.
6. What are you reading right now?
A book called "Hearing God's Voice" by Henry and Richard Blackaby.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes. I have the one that is currently being published, and I've already completed another one and I'm in the process of finishing a 3rd. The 2nd one is about children as God's gifts and the 3rd one is about a parent's love.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I guess my biggest obstacle is being able to focus on what I'm writing at the moment. So many times while I'm writing one book, I get great ideas for other books and then I have to switch to another document to write down my notes and ideas, and then come back to the first book that I was writing. It doesn't cause me too many problems though because I always pray when I write, to make sure that I stay focused, and that I write about the things that God wants me to say.
9. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
When my book is complete (which will be in about 6 months or so), readers will be able to purchase my book from the Tate Publishing website. I am also in the process of building my own website, blog and Facebook fan page, so readers will be able to also find my book and more information about my books on these. These will become active once I have the illustrations completed for my book.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Authors and Other Stuff
Mikey, my son, called and told us that he and Cari had been talking to Maci, our 2 yr old granddaughter. It went like this:
"Maci, do you know that you have a middle name?"
"No"
"Your name is Maci Hope."
"Maci ope?"
"Yes, Maci Hope Littau"
"Maci ope itta?"
They then had lunch the next day and Cari was sitting there. Mikey said to Maci,
"Maci, do you remember your whole name?"
"Maci ope itta." She declared.
Mikey said, "Yes, I am a Littau, Mommy is a Littau, Mee Mee and Pea Paw are Littau."
"OOOOOOh"
Cari said, "Mam ma and Paw paw are not Littau, they are Warren."
Maci grabbed her by the face. One palm on each cheek and said, "That's too much!"
I hope you are enjoying getting to know about the authors I have been interviewing. These people are inspiring to me.
I have "met" most of them through facebook and the Tate Publishing fan page. This week I am interviewing Esther LoPresto
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Esther LoPresto and my book is “Where’s My Other Sock?”
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I am usually a quiet person, but I can be very random. In addition to being a writer, I am a dancer, and a flutist. I graduated in 2007 and I am in community college working on my associate’s degree in accounting. With all these things going on, writing is a great stress reliever.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
Well, I have always enjoyed making up stories since I was about three years old. As time went on and others encouraged my writing, I dreamed of seeing my works published. In high school, I found that I liked accounting and decided to major in it in college. During my second year, I had a professor that made the concepts so difficult that I became discouraged. With only one class remaining for my degree, I plan to finish it, but the contract from Tate has encouraged me to write more than ever. I hope to write as long as the ideas come and as the King’s scribe, my only hope is to write the words He wants to be read.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?Much like the filming of a movie, I write out of sequence. Usually, I see an interesting scene in my head and start from there, molding the story around that point no matter where it winds up in the finished product. I’m also pretty picky about proper grammar and punctuation, etc. It bothers my friends, but editors seem to like it.
5. Are you a reader?
I think I love reading more than writing! My favorite categories would be fantasy and mystery, but I’ve been getting a little bit into thrillers too. Anything that puts me on the edge of my seat, or makes me think (or both) will find its way to my shelves.
6. What are you reading right now?At the moment, I’m in the middle of a Brandilyn Collins mystery.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I’m constantly making notes on various ideas that might make a good story and I have several works in progress. To explain them would take awhile and I’m pretty private about them until I feel I need an outside opinion. After awhile, you may notice that I use “legends” quite frequently in reference to myself or my stories. This is my biggest project. It is an allegorical fantasy trilogy about life’s trials and faith in the One True King..
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Motivation and time. Ideas come to me at very obscure times: right before falling asleep; walking through a store; in the shower; while reading another book; listening to music, just to name a few. Also, in my last year as a teenager, I find myself using every excuse possible to procrastinate. Then, when I finally do sit down to write, and I get stuck, I feel like giving up. That’s where I am with my next story: stuck and not sure how to continue. But once that obstacle is defeated, I find out where the story is taking me and have a lot of fun with it.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Two socks go into the washer, only one comes out of the dryer... Tori never could have imagined the cause of her missing socks. But one day, after finishing a load of laundry, she started hearing voices in the basement. The voices discussed stealing her family's socks! She knew she had to get to the bottom of this mystery. After her brother calls her crazy, Tori recruits the help of her friends, Sally and Suzie. Together, they learn of secret alliances and sinister plots taking place literally under their feet. The only way to uncover the truth is to send their faithful pets into an unknown world linked directly to the dryer. Join Tori and her friends on this journey to a strange place where they encounter the most unlikely creatures and ultimately answer the question “Where's my other sock?”
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My book is still in the publishing process, but when it becomes available, information will be on my blog. Readers can email legends149@gmail.com and my blog is Ramblings of a Random wRiter found at http://legendsofxenos.blogspot.com
p://www.facebook.com/pages/Esther-LoPresto/127908277538
Enjoy!
To see other author interviews go to
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com
See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this.
"Maci, do you know that you have a middle name?"
"No"
"Your name is Maci Hope."
"Maci ope?"
"Yes, Maci Hope Littau"
"Maci ope itta?"
They then had lunch the next day and Cari was sitting there. Mikey said to Maci,
"Maci, do you remember your whole name?"
"Maci ope itta." She declared.
Mikey said, "Yes, I am a Littau, Mommy is a Littau, Mee Mee and Pea Paw are Littau."
"OOOOOOh"
Cari said, "Mam ma and Paw paw are not Littau, they are Warren."
Maci grabbed her by the face. One palm on each cheek and said, "That's too much!"
I hope you are enjoying getting to know about the authors I have been interviewing. These people are inspiring to me.
I have "met" most of them through facebook and the Tate Publishing fan page. This week I am interviewing Esther LoPresto
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Esther LoPresto and my book is “Where’s My Other Sock?”
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I am usually a quiet person, but I can be very random. In addition to being a writer, I am a dancer, and a flutist. I graduated in 2007 and I am in community college working on my associate’s degree in accounting. With all these things going on, writing is a great stress reliever.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
Well, I have always enjoyed making up stories since I was about three years old. As time went on and others encouraged my writing, I dreamed of seeing my works published. In high school, I found that I liked accounting and decided to major in it in college. During my second year, I had a professor that made the concepts so difficult that I became discouraged. With only one class remaining for my degree, I plan to finish it, but the contract from Tate has encouraged me to write more than ever. I hope to write as long as the ideas come and as the King’s scribe, my only hope is to write the words He wants to be read.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?Much like the filming of a movie, I write out of sequence. Usually, I see an interesting scene in my head and start from there, molding the story around that point no matter where it winds up in the finished product. I’m also pretty picky about proper grammar and punctuation, etc. It bothers my friends, but editors seem to like it.
5. Are you a reader?
I think I love reading more than writing! My favorite categories would be fantasy and mystery, but I’ve been getting a little bit into thrillers too. Anything that puts me on the edge of my seat, or makes me think (or both) will find its way to my shelves.
6. What are you reading right now?At the moment, I’m in the middle of a Brandilyn Collins mystery.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I’m constantly making notes on various ideas that might make a good story and I have several works in progress. To explain them would take awhile and I’m pretty private about them until I feel I need an outside opinion. After awhile, you may notice that I use “legends” quite frequently in reference to myself or my stories. This is my biggest project. It is an allegorical fantasy trilogy about life’s trials and faith in the One True King..
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Motivation and time. Ideas come to me at very obscure times: right before falling asleep; walking through a store; in the shower; while reading another book; listening to music, just to name a few. Also, in my last year as a teenager, I find myself using every excuse possible to procrastinate. Then, when I finally do sit down to write, and I get stuck, I feel like giving up. That’s where I am with my next story: stuck and not sure how to continue. But once that obstacle is defeated, I find out where the story is taking me and have a lot of fun with it.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Two socks go into the washer, only one comes out of the dryer... Tori never could have imagined the cause of her missing socks. But one day, after finishing a load of laundry, she started hearing voices in the basement. The voices discussed stealing her family's socks! She knew she had to get to the bottom of this mystery. After her brother calls her crazy, Tori recruits the help of her friends, Sally and Suzie. Together, they learn of secret alliances and sinister plots taking place literally under their feet. The only way to uncover the truth is to send their faithful pets into an unknown world linked directly to the dryer. Join Tori and her friends on this journey to a strange place where they encounter the most unlikely creatures and ultimately answer the question “Where's my other sock?”
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My book is still in the publishing process, but when it becomes available, information will be on my blog. Readers can email legends149@gmail.com and my blog is Ramblings of a Random wRiter found at http://legendsofxenos.blogspot.com
p://www.facebook.com/pages/Esther-LoPresto/127908277538
Enjoy!
To see other author interviews go to
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com
See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Fishing and Camping
Terry and I went with our oldest son and family on a weekend camping trip into the mountains of Colorado. We were tent camping! Yay! I love it. We purchased some cheap little fishing rods for the grandkids and all the stuff that goes with fishing. (We aren't that practiced at fishing...or would that be: We aren't that good!) Anyway, I love the mountains and the kids so we had fun!
The only problem was...We had visitors!
Terry had taken the kids to the bathrooms in the car and my son and his wife were sitting with me around the campfire. We had just finished dinner (chicken fajitas cooked on a plow disc with a propane flame...I am so thankful for that gift from my nephew-in-law, Clifford!...) anyway, we were drinking campfire coffee and sitting around the campfire. My son very quietly said, "Mom, there is a bear."
I responded, "Stevie, you are not funny."
He said, "For real!"
I turned my head and a medium sized black bear with a tan muzzle casually walked about 12 feet from us. He maneuvered the length of our campsite. I then remembered what my mid-kid's wife told me about bears and stood up with one hand over my head. (the other hand held my coffee) and said, "Git outta here."
He turned his head and walked on into the dark.
We went to the van (my door was locked) and watched him as he came back and looked through the high cabinet at the table. Terry and the kids came at that time and the bear walked to the other side of the table and stretched his neck and stared at Terry. He then walked into the darkness.
Terry and Steve took a pitiful little flashlight and searched for him. He came and went off and on to the cabinet thingy.
I went to the tent and went to sleep. They said that the bear walked next to the tent....I didn't know it and he didn't care that I was there. We discovered that he had swiped our bread and marshmallows and bitten through Steve's deodorant and eclipse gum.
The next night about 2 or 3 a.m. we heard a racket that sounded like a train wreck. Two or so bears were dumping our cast iron pots and pans out of the box. Then we heard the sound of bubble wrap busting...They found Terry's jug of tea in the stream and were drinking it!
By the way, we fished a bunch and caught no fishes, but had a ball with the grandkids. Terry and the little boys biked around the lake a couple of times and all over the campground. We still love camping.
I am continuing with featuring Tate Publishing and Enterprise Authors. I have "met" most of them through facebook and the Tate Publishing fan page. In the following weeks you will have the opportunity so see the dedication and heart each person puts in their writing. This week I am interviewing Caroline Alden.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? My name is Caroline Alden and the names of my books are "Blended" and "Unspoken Story".
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I enjoy the simple pleasures in life.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
When my youngest child was in kindergarten. I began writing at age 32 as a hobby and became hooked.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My main characters develop
so easily because I feel passionate about them once they are created.
5. Are you a reader?
I enjoy reading a lot.
6. What are you reading right now?
I am currently reading a Nora Roberts book.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
Tell about it. I am working on my third book. The title has not been determined yet. The main idea of the book is learning to trust. Like my first and second novel (Unspoken Story) my third work is also family fiction.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle has been in choosing the perfect settings for my story's.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Blended is about a New Hampshire family. The main character Sarah will capture your heart, with her cheerful outlook on life. Sarah is full of passion and warmth for her not so functional family. Sarah can handle the worst situations, while wearing a smile. You will laugh at Sarah's not so typical mother. You will cry when you learn why Sarah's nephew Ryan doesn't like being alone. As you journey through many of life's twist and turns with the Benson family.
Unspoken story is about a boy named Danny who has never spoken a single word. Danny has no voice but can communicate better without words than most able to speak can. You will feel a strong connection to Danny as his world crumbles around him. Danny shows us how one small mistake can have years of consequences. He also shows us that time is a healer and that actions definitely speak louder than words.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. I can be contacted at shancar3@hotmail.com My book can be purchased through Tate publishing, or at Amazon, Target, Borders books and Barnes and Noble.
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com
See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this.
Terry and I went with our oldest son and family on a weekend camping trip into the mountains of Colorado. We were tent camping! Yay! I love it. We purchased some cheap little fishing rods for the grandkids and all the stuff that goes with fishing. (We aren't that practiced at fishing...or would that be: We aren't that good!) Anyway, I love the mountains and the kids so we had fun!
The only problem was...We had visitors!
Terry had taken the kids to the bathrooms in the car and my son and his wife were sitting with me around the campfire. We had just finished dinner (chicken fajitas cooked on a plow disc with a propane flame...I am so thankful for that gift from my nephew-in-law, Clifford!...) anyway, we were drinking campfire coffee and sitting around the campfire. My son very quietly said, "Mom, there is a bear."
I responded, "Stevie, you are not funny."
He said, "For real!"
I turned my head and a medium sized black bear with a tan muzzle casually walked about 12 feet from us. He maneuvered the length of our campsite. I then remembered what my mid-kid's wife told me about bears and stood up with one hand over my head. (the other hand held my coffee) and said, "Git outta here."
He turned his head and walked on into the dark.
We went to the van (my door was locked) and watched him as he came back and looked through the high cabinet at the table. Terry and the kids came at that time and the bear walked to the other side of the table and stretched his neck and stared at Terry. He then walked into the darkness.
Terry and Steve took a pitiful little flashlight and searched for him. He came and went off and on to the cabinet thingy.
I went to the tent and went to sleep. They said that the bear walked next to the tent....I didn't know it and he didn't care that I was there. We discovered that he had swiped our bread and marshmallows and bitten through Steve's deodorant and eclipse gum.
The next night about 2 or 3 a.m. we heard a racket that sounded like a train wreck. Two or so bears were dumping our cast iron pots and pans out of the box. Then we heard the sound of bubble wrap busting...They found Terry's jug of tea in the stream and were drinking it!
By the way, we fished a bunch and caught no fishes, but had a ball with the grandkids. Terry and the little boys biked around the lake a couple of times and all over the campground. We still love camping.
I am continuing with featuring Tate Publishing and Enterprise Authors. I have "met" most of them through facebook and the Tate Publishing fan page. In the following weeks you will have the opportunity so see the dedication and heart each person puts in their writing. This week I am interviewing Caroline Alden.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? My name is Caroline Alden and the names of my books are "Blended" and "Unspoken Story".
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I enjoy the simple pleasures in life.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
When my youngest child was in kindergarten. I began writing at age 32 as a hobby and became hooked.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My main characters develop
so easily because I feel passionate about them once they are created.
5. Are you a reader?
I enjoy reading a lot.
6. What are you reading right now?
I am currently reading a Nora Roberts book.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
Tell about it. I am working on my third book. The title has not been determined yet. The main idea of the book is learning to trust. Like my first and second novel (Unspoken Story) my third work is also family fiction.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle has been in choosing the perfect settings for my story's.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Blended is about a New Hampshire family. The main character Sarah will capture your heart, with her cheerful outlook on life. Sarah is full of passion and warmth for her not so functional family. Sarah can handle the worst situations, while wearing a smile. You will laugh at Sarah's not so typical mother. You will cry when you learn why Sarah's nephew Ryan doesn't like being alone. As you journey through many of life's twist and turns with the Benson family.
Unspoken story is about a boy named Danny who has never spoken a single word. Danny has no voice but can communicate better without words than most able to speak can. You will feel a strong connection to Danny as his world crumbles around him. Danny shows us how one small mistake can have years of consequences. He also shows us that time is a healer and that actions definitely speak louder than words.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. I can be contacted at shancar3@hotmail.com My book can be purchased through Tate publishing, or at Amazon, Target, Borders books and Barnes and Noble.
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com
See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Elk's Resolve is Ready to Send Out ...to You!
Elk's Resolve is Ready to Send Out ...to You!
This afternoon the boxes of "Elk's Resolve" were on the deck when I came home from work. They arrived sooner than I expected and I am very happy about that. Complete your order with the paypal button or send me a message at elainel45@msn.com and let me know how many and how you want your books signed. Of course you can give those instructions on paypal too! It is very easy.Thank you for walking with me through this process! Just think book #3 is ready to submit for consideration to the publisher. I just need to sell a bunch of these other books before I send it in to them. They need to know that there is a demand for books by Elaine Littau. (smile smile)Please tell your friends about these books and blog about them...help me spread the word if you like them. I really appreciate it!
This afternoon the boxes of "Elk's Resolve" were on the deck when I came home from work. They arrived sooner than I expected and I am very happy about that. Complete your order with the paypal button or send me a message at elainel45@msn.com and let me know how many and how you want your books signed. Of course you can give those instructions on paypal too! It is very easy.Thank you for walking with me through this process! Just think book #3 is ready to submit for consideration to the publisher. I just need to sell a bunch of these other books before I send it in to them. They need to know that there is a demand for books by Elaine Littau. (smile smile)Please tell your friends about these books and blog about them...help me spread the word if you like them. I really appreciate it!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
A Sample of "Elk's Resolve" Audio Was Sent To Me!
The Audio department of Tate Publishing and Enterprises sent me a sample of a portion of the first chapter of "Elk's Resolve" on Friday. I believe that everyone who takes advantage of the free download with the purchase of the paper version will really appreciate the work involved in voicing the book.
With the sample the man doing the voice for the book asked for any corrections or input from me for the audio version. He kindly accepted my instructions and we are to speak on the phone soon to be certain that certain words are pronounced correctly. (Would you believe that people have trouble figuring out how to pronounce 'Littau'? Hint: it rhymes with Utah...smile)
Things are moving along... I hope you are getting ready to get your hands on a copy of "Elk's Resolve".
With the sample the man doing the voice for the book asked for any corrections or input from me for the audio version. He kindly accepted my instructions and we are to speak on the phone soon to be certain that certain words are pronounced correctly. (Would you believe that people have trouble figuring out how to pronounce 'Littau'? Hint: it rhymes with Utah...smile)
Things are moving along... I hope you are getting ready to get your hands on a copy of "Elk's Resolve".
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Reflection of 2008
My best friend from Jr. High and High School sent me a Christmas card with a sweet note jotted in it. She reminded me that 2008 has been a remarkable year for me. I was struck that she wrote about me instead of herself. (I want to know her things too!) The point is: She spent those several words encouraging me. That is so like her!Sometimes I get bogged down with talking about the book and promoting, selling, and writing, that I forget how awesome it is that it is published. Man alive, IT IS PUBLISHED!!! If you know me, you know that I'm not all that...but God is! You may not believe in miracles, but I want to tell you, This has been a real life miracle!2008 has been a year of discovering priorities. What is my platform? What am I trying to say? What is important to me? What will I spend my time on? What will I spend my money on?Answers to these questions coming soon...I will have to chew on them a bit to put the right words to it.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Marketing
Like many people who dream of becoming an author, I had some lofty ideas of what being a published author was like. It must have come from a "Hollywood" movie or something, but I had dreams of going up on a mountain in the quiet of the woods and typing away on my laptop while my publisher marketed my most recent brilliant work of fiction. There were visions of book signings with rabid fans waiting in long lines just to meet me. (Did I tell you I have a vivid imagination?) I hate to burst any one's bubble, but it just doesn't happen that way for most first timers out there.I am so blessed to find a publisher who will read unsolicited manuscripts. I participated in a web instruction event by a book agent. He said that most of the "stuff" he got in the mail was pitched after the first paragraph. If it didn't "grab him as something fresh and compelling" in those few words, it wasn't worthy of his time! After listening to his brilliance for an hour I was one very depressed author. The experience with Tate Publishing and Enterprises is a very personal one. Every phone conversation has been productive and helpful. The professionals assigned to each phase of the book development are invested in the success of each book.I have to say that marketing is not something I knew much about, but after reading a ton of information and studying the blogs of various authors and groups, I have gotten my feet wet. I keep a journal about every last thing that I have tried. Each attempt is marked with the number of books sold or people affected by the event. Every mail out is registered as to how many cards, letters, author/speaker brochures, or event fliers were sent and what the response was. I think I will have a better idea of how to spend my marketing dollars for my second book, "Elk's Resolve".At a book signing in a small book store the proprietor told me that Tate is very aggressive in putting their author's names and titles "out there". With every box of books from Ingram/Spring Arbour are fliers about the offerings from Tate authors. I was impressed with that bit of information. There have been time when I had felt that I was shouldering a lion's share of the marketing, but after talking with her, I realized that there is so much more to the publishing business than I will ever learn or know. I am glad to leave those parts to Tate. The very next time I looked at a blog from a group of authors, I saw that they were discussing how their "big house" publishers were having them do their own marketing. They were upset that times had changed. At this time those publishers are downsizing and a bunch or authors were let out of their contracts. I imagine they would be glad to do a little marketing if they had a chance.I said ALL of that to say this. Tate does a lot of things for the author that we do not see every day. Eventually we see the effects of it. It takes a lot of publicity to get name recognition for authors. If you don't believe me, ask "the man on the street" to name their favorite author. They will most likely say someone from the New York Times best sellers list. Then ask them who their favorite Christian author is or to name ten television preachers. I promise you that the majority of Christians are somewhat stumped. We have to be out there with our face and our voice connecting with people. That has been the best way that I have found to market my books.Elaine LittauTate Authorof"Nan's Journey" and "Elk's Resolve"
Monday, November 3, 2008
The Schedule of Conceptual Editing of "Elk's Resolve'
Today I got the schedule for the editing for "Elk's Resolve". The process is well underway. If you enjoyed the action, twists and turns, and emotion of "Nan's Journey", you won't be disappointed with "Elk's Resolve". Already over 100 people have contacted me wanting a pre-release copy. I have no idea what the publisher's price will be for "Elk's Resolve", but for those contacting me during the pre-release phase, I am selling them for $10. You won't have to send the money until I receive them. These copies won't be in my hands until spring/summer of 2009, but if you want me to write your contact information down so that I can send you a notice when I have them, please let me know.I put the third book in a contest on Christianstoryteller.com. Hopefully it will get some recognition there. The fourth in the series is coming along nicely. I write when I am nervous or bored. Waiting for publishing makes me a little crazy even though it is fun. Please continue to pray for me as I try to follow Him with all my heart.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Women's Conference with Lisa Bevere
This weekend I am going to Oklahoma City to a women's conference featuring Lisa Bevere. I am so excited! When I first signed up to go I asked Tate Publishing to help me get a book signing in the hours after the conference on Saturday. It happens that the big Texas vs OU game is on that very weekend. We decided that a book signing would be unprofitable. Now I am so glad that I don't have an event of my own to distract me from the things I know I will learn at the Bevere conference.
I am looking forward to recharging my mental and spiritual batteries. I have been running on empty for awhile. (I heard you say airhead!) Anyway, I think these times away with no other agenda are vital to strong mental health. If you haven't taken time like this for yourself, consider it a priority. Give yourself permission to get away to a conference like this one or a ballgame or concert. These times bring texture to your life when everything seems bland.
I am looking forward to recharging my mental and spiritual batteries. I have been running on empty for awhile. (I heard you say airhead!) Anyway, I think these times away with no other agenda are vital to strong mental health. If you haven't taken time like this for yourself, consider it a priority. Give yourself permission to get away to a conference like this one or a ballgame or concert. These times bring texture to your life when everything seems bland.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Elks Resolve book Teaser
Raised by a loving family in a Ute village, Elk faces the challenges of prejudice within the camp and the yearning of his heart to see the rest of the world. In “Elk’s Resolve”, Book II of the Heritage Series, author Elaine Littau, reveals characters who struggle with hatred, depression, loss, and fear.
Set against the rugged beauty of the Colorado Rockies of the 1800’s, “Elk’s Resolve” follows Elk as he discovers himself becoming the rescuer of a family at the verge of starvation. After a final conflict in the village of his youth Elk is driven to escape his past and the demons who taunt him. Guided by the hand of God he finds himself in the midst of the family he was cruelly separated from at birth. Full of passion, heartbreak, romance, rivalry, and hope, “Elk’s Resolve” will fascinate you from the first page.
Set against the rugged beauty of the Colorado Rockies of the 1800’s, “Elk’s Resolve” follows Elk as he discovers himself becoming the rescuer of a family at the verge of starvation. After a final conflict in the village of his youth Elk is driven to escape his past and the demons who taunt him. Guided by the hand of God he finds himself in the midst of the family he was cruelly separated from at birth. Full of passion, heartbreak, romance, rivalry, and hope, “Elk’s Resolve” will fascinate you from the first page.
Monday, July 28, 2008
The Real Work Begins Now
The contract for "Elk's Resolve" has been signed and now the real work begins. At this time we are waiting to hear from the editors to set up our time table. I will update you on the process as things happen so you can go through it with me. (smile smile)
"Elk's Resolve" shares some characters with "Nan's Journey" and introduces a few more very colorful characters that I think you will enjoy. The point of view is the same as "Nan" was written in. The overall theme is about depression, spiritual warfare, and overcoming negative thoughts and behavior. The setting is Trinidad and Montrose, Colorado. (some of my favorite places on earth)
Answers to the questions raised in the first book will be answered. I have been accused of only writing "Nan's Journey" so that I could write a series. Yes, it does lend itself to a series and I am happily writing it as a series. Each book in the series features different characters. I could have written it in one book, but who wants to read a 450 page book! (I know there are people out there who love to read large books, but the rest of us need something more managable.)
The third book is almost at the half-way point on the first draft. I want to have it completed before the edits on "Elk's Resolve" begins. It does help to have something to occupy my mind while I am waiting between the steps to publication, so I think I have a good chance of getting it done. I want to put it in a contest that christianstoryteller.com is hosting. The deadline is December 31st so I need to get going!
"Elk's Resolve" shares some characters with "Nan's Journey" and introduces a few more very colorful characters that I think you will enjoy. The point of view is the same as "Nan" was written in. The overall theme is about depression, spiritual warfare, and overcoming negative thoughts and behavior. The setting is Trinidad and Montrose, Colorado. (some of my favorite places on earth)
Answers to the questions raised in the first book will be answered. I have been accused of only writing "Nan's Journey" so that I could write a series. Yes, it does lend itself to a series and I am happily writing it as a series. Each book in the series features different characters. I could have written it in one book, but who wants to read a 450 page book! (I know there are people out there who love to read large books, but the rest of us need something more managable.)
The third book is almost at the half-way point on the first draft. I want to have it completed before the edits on "Elk's Resolve" begins. It does help to have something to occupy my mind while I am waiting between the steps to publication, so I think I have a good chance of getting it done. I want to put it in a contest that christianstoryteller.com is hosting. The deadline is December 31st so I need to get going!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
The Contract for Elk's Resolve Has Been Signed!
July 11, 2008 I received a contract for "Elk's Resolve" to be published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises of Mustang, Oklahoma. The book, which is the second in the Heritage Series and follows "Nan's Journey", should be ready for release in April or May of 2009. Leave me a message/comment here if you want to reserve a pre-release copy!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)