Changes for the Better

Lately, I've been asked about my choice of "going Indie." But the best question was, "are you happy?"

Simply put, I'm always happy. Can't help it. To answer the question though, "Yes, I'm very happy with the choices I've made with becoming and Independent Writer." Who wouldn't be? I set my own writing schedule, don't have to compete with anyone else, and certainly don't have to put up a "publisher's list of favorites" which ticks me off. For Pete's sake, this is a business, not a competition at being the teacher's pet. Too much drama.

Like I've said in the past, I'm a writer, always wanted to be since I was a child--now my career choices are settled and I'm doing exactly what I should be doing. It isn't a mystical dream that materialized. This is what was supposed to happen. It took work. A goal was set into motion at an early age and I'm fulfilling it. It's not magic people, it's sweat, tears, and research. 

Am I successful? Success can be measured in many ways. Not just monetary. Yeah, I consider myself extremely successful. I wake up every day doing what I love to do--Making up stories in my head! LOL! 


As time goes on and life extends itself to an older age, I'll look back and can honestly say, "I've lived my dream." 


Smilin' and keeping it simple, and sippin' on my coffee with Cheyenne at my side----
Cherri

NaNoWriMo Lift off

This Sunday night at midnight-01, will begin another NaNoWriMo marathon for the month of November! Yeah, I know, last year went miserably--BUT there's always hope on the horizon. This year, I'm prepared! Coffee, cool dogs, cool weather, and hot cocoa; my tools for a happy NaNo (I have such simple needs-LOL)


With the slate cleared, the office thoroughly dusted, and my CD's lined up, I have no excuses for making it all the way through this year. In 2008, I won--I can do it again! Now the only thing left to do is tie my internal editor up in pink duct tape. ^oo^ 


For anyone who isn't familiar with NaNoWri (National Novel Writing Month), it's all about literacy. Getting kids and adults both involved in writing a 50,000 word novel in a single month. There are all kinds of forums to be joined, for the social adept, or not. For the Houston area here, there are quite a few writing kick-off parties and gatherings...something to consider for those who wish to not go it alone. It's great fun and no matter what, we're ALL winners! 


Yay me, for being a participant for FOUR years straight!
Cherri

Two-week writing treat

Actually, my husband's in L.A. for two weeks, which will allow me to buckle down without too many interruptions to do nothing but write. (except for the fur-kids, but they're angels. lol) 

To kick-off this fortnight, I've ground 3lbs of Houstonian Blend coffee beans, pulled out my favorite CD's, picked up a case of printer paper, and have dipped my muse's wings in creative juice. Now, we'll just have to wait and see where these characters take me. They have been evolving in my head (or more like screaming) for about a month--it's time to let them loose! 

I think most of my readers are going to fall in love with Penny. She walks through this life with a definite style all her own. And wait till you meet her German shepherd. This gorgeous GSD is gonna steal your heart (and the murderer's also). 

Recently, an acquaintance approached me with some questions. Here's the answers: 
1) Have you always wanted to be a writer.
     Ans: No, and yes. Obstacles kept throwing themselves in front of my life, detouring my goals--until I reached forty. Then I didn't give a rat's right ear and decided it was time to fulfill the void my heart ached for. I now have. :) 

2) Do you write anything other than mysteries? 
     Ans: No,...and yes. Recently I wrote the sweetest short story I've ever written, Halo and Holly. It isn't a mystery. It's a sweet canine Christmas short story about two Great Pyrenees. Also, I have a different kind of romance short story I'll be publishing on Kindle soon. But other than those two, all the rest of my novels and short works are mysteries. The Scent of Money, and Impact For Murder--both are novels and are on Kindle. 

3)Do you always write with dogs in your stories. 
     Ans: Yes. Always.

Thank you Shawna for your questions! 

With a huge mug of hot coffee and my writing partners curled up near my feet, it's time for me to begin...my two-week writing treat!


Cherri