Somewhere between sunrise and sunset, the publishing world changed directions. Totally.
I'd like to say these changes are for the good, and in some perspectives, they are. BUT, for many others, no. As a new author in this field of cat and mouse play, like a sponge I'm soaking in the information being thrown at me from every direction.
To say I'm quiet, reserved, dedicated, and well, shy...is an understatement. All my life all I wanted to do is write. And now, I'm watching the writing world spinning in circles around me as I try every day to do the one thing I love doing. Seems big promotions, gathering blurbs, and running all over the planet is expected now of writers. The constant promoting is what boils my blood, the rest of it I can take it or leave it.
Promoting requires one to get their face out there. I hear it time and time again, how only the "pretty people" get noticed. Not true. Promoting requires one to get noticed...period. And for someone like me who likes sitting on the back row, rarely raising her hand, promoting myself probably won't happen very often. Being upfront-on-stage is NOT in my DNA. It's like this, I'll never audition for a part in a play.
So why am I talking about promoting and the publishing world? Limitations. Whether you are an up-front-in-your-face type gal/guy, or not -- bookstores, access to books, and now avenues to getting in libraries are now LIMITED. Your average writer is not published out of New York, we are published in what the writing world terms, small press. And doors for the small press are being slammed shut every day lately. Yes, my publishers have won some worthy battles, but why should they have to struggle so hard to stay afloat?
Folks who love to read are only getting to know a tiny portion of authors through large promotional pockets and the stigma coming out of certain publishing houses out of NY. Yes, they are good writers, but what would the average reader think if they knew they could have access to millions of books in any genre they enjoy reading by well written authors they've never heard about? If I were still a kid, I would have thought I had died and gone to heaven. Literally!
I wish I could direct them to the local library, but unfortunately they seem to have changed their policies also. For me, this is a sad day in America. Times are a changin'.
Get on the internet, Google "small press/and or/ publishers" and gander through all the many wonderful authors out there writing stories to fill every soul. You'll be amazed!
Now, it's time for me to climb down from the podium before I faint,
Cherri
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Writing For Life
Whenever I think I'm not quite good enough to be a writer, I remember something "snippety" another writer said to me several years ago. Her lack of encouragement and uppity attitude changed a few things in the way I thought about becoming a published writer. And I held back when I should have moved forward.
But everything happens for a reason at the right time, being in the right place. As I look forward to having my SECOND novel published later this year, I walk without fear, without that dreaded trepidation in the pit of my stomach. The momentum is in full swing, and I am moving forward.
For anyone out there who wants to write that novel, but can't find the time, let me tell you, that's all right. Just keep trying to get a few words down every day. (that really is the key to finishing a novel.) I know from experience that life can certainly get in the way of your goals. When the time is right, you'll know and the curtains will part, giving you center stage to complete all those wonderful words you just have to get out. As time keeps interrupting your writing goals, lending you one tragedy after the other, keep in mind that the word "goals" simply means something is unobtainable at the moment, but not lost forever.
If for some reason you encounter a writer with attitude and he/she tells you, "if you ever find the time to write and you do get a contract, call me," walk away and smile knowing your ship is about to sail home. No one has the right to discourage another writer from doing what they love passionately.
Keep on writing,
Cherri
But everything happens for a reason at the right time, being in the right place. As I look forward to having my SECOND novel published later this year, I walk without fear, without that dreaded trepidation in the pit of my stomach. The momentum is in full swing, and I am moving forward.
For anyone out there who wants to write that novel, but can't find the time, let me tell you, that's all right. Just keep trying to get a few words down every day. (that really is the key to finishing a novel.) I know from experience that life can certainly get in the way of your goals. When the time is right, you'll know and the curtains will part, giving you center stage to complete all those wonderful words you just have to get out. As time keeps interrupting your writing goals, lending you one tragedy after the other, keep in mind that the word "goals" simply means something is unobtainable at the moment, but not lost forever.
If for some reason you encounter a writer with attitude and he/she tells you, "if you ever find the time to write and you do get a contract, call me," walk away and smile knowing your ship is about to sail home. No one has the right to discourage another writer from doing what they love passionately.
Keep on writing,
Cherri
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Making A Pot Of Coffee
Discombobulated--describes my thought patterns to a tee! (thank you Susan, I love that word!)
Went to the kitchen yesterday morning to make a pot of coffee. But first I had to throw out the old grounds in the trash can. The trash can was full and I decided to go ahead and empty the trash and put it in the big can out in the garage.
Out in the garage, carrying the bag of trash I noticed the dryer door ajar and sat the bag of trash next to the washing machine. In the dryer was a load of clean towels which I put in the basket and carried to the living room. Just as I sat down on the sofa to fold the towels, the phone rang. My husband calling to remind me to please wash him a load of jeans and that he'd be working late and that he'd bring home some bar-b-que for supper. No problem. I headed to the bedroom where we keep the clothes hamper and sorted out the jeans on the bed. I needed the clothes basket to put them in but the basket sat in the living room filled with towels to be folded.
Sitting down on the sofa again to fold towels so I could put them away so I could use the basket, my eyes kept darting down to the carpet noticing all the dog hair that seemed to have accumulated over the last two days. (we have four large forever-shedding dogs)
I couldn't stand it a minute longer and went to the closet, pulled out the vacuum cleaner and plugged it in only to discover the bag was packed full and had to be changed. In search of another vacuum cleaner bag, I glanced at the clock in the kitchen...and gasped at the time. I had a hair appointment and would be late if I didn't leave right then.
Throwing on clothes (because I still had on my jammies), I drove like a crackhead on speed, making it to the salon without a minute to spare. Loving my "new do," I chatted with my hair dresser, getting caught up on all the latest gossip.
Afterwards, on the way home, I stopped by the drug store to pick up some mascara. An hour later and four plastic sacks filled full of "stuff" plus the mascara, I left for the grocery store to buy milk and eggs. And felt rather pleased with myself for only getting those two items.
Back at the house, putting the milk and eggs in the fridge, the door bell rang. My mail lady had a package for me. A friend who lives out of town had sent me the cutest long sleeve shirt. Well, I had to try it on right then and ran to the bedroom.
Admiring myself in the mirror with a "new do" and a new shirt, the phone rang. My neighbor wanted me to come over to help her hang a new painting on their wall. I hopped over to her house across the street. We hung the picture, which is gorgeous, she liked my new hair style and shirt and we talked up a storm about girl stuff. Eventually, I noticed through her living room window the light outside seemed to be fading.
Every evening, a friend of mine and I walk the race track over at the nearby middle school. Hurrying home to change into my walking clothes, I called Lisa to let her know I was running late and would be there shortly. At the track we both got tickled with each other because she too, had been to her hair dresser and had gotten a new cut and style. Which looks adorable on her. We lost track of time, talking and laughing and walked for an hour and a half.
Back at the house again, I stripped my clothes off on the way to the bathroom to bathe. In the shower with the hot water cascading over my neck and shoulders, exhaustion settled in my old bones. I couldn't beleive how tired I felt as one yawn came after the other. It dawned on me in the shower that being the caffeine addict I am, I hadn't had any all day.
Too pooped to care, I dried off and put my jammies back on. The dogs went nuts running to the garage door, which meant my husband had made it home with our supper. It was 9:00pm. I slipped on my house shoes and shuffled my way to greet him in the garage.
On the way, I looked at the jeans piled high on the bed, still unwashed. The pantry door stood open in the kitchen with the trash container jutting out waiting for a fresh plastic bag. On the counter top lay four bags stuffed with goodies from the drug store. In the living room, in the middle of the floor like a soldier standing sentry, stood the vacuum cleaner with a packed bag sticking out its side. The laundry basket sat on the coffee table piled high with unfolded towels.
Out in the garage the large trash bag sat next to the washing machine.
My husband's eyes scanned my body, clad in jammies and said laughing, "Hi Honey. I see you're still in your pajamas. What did you do today?"
Smiling sweetly, I kissed him hello and replied, "Tried to make a pot of coffee."
Signing off and Happy Trails to all--
Cherri
Went to the kitchen yesterday morning to make a pot of coffee. But first I had to throw out the old grounds in the trash can. The trash can was full and I decided to go ahead and empty the trash and put it in the big can out in the garage.
Out in the garage, carrying the bag of trash I noticed the dryer door ajar and sat the bag of trash next to the washing machine. In the dryer was a load of clean towels which I put in the basket and carried to the living room. Just as I sat down on the sofa to fold the towels, the phone rang. My husband calling to remind me to please wash him a load of jeans and that he'd be working late and that he'd bring home some bar-b-que for supper. No problem. I headed to the bedroom where we keep the clothes hamper and sorted out the jeans on the bed. I needed the clothes basket to put them in but the basket sat in the living room filled with towels to be folded.
Sitting down on the sofa again to fold towels so I could put them away so I could use the basket, my eyes kept darting down to the carpet noticing all the dog hair that seemed to have accumulated over the last two days. (we have four large forever-shedding dogs)
I couldn't stand it a minute longer and went to the closet, pulled out the vacuum cleaner and plugged it in only to discover the bag was packed full and had to be changed. In search of another vacuum cleaner bag, I glanced at the clock in the kitchen...and gasped at the time. I had a hair appointment and would be late if I didn't leave right then.
Throwing on clothes (because I still had on my jammies), I drove like a crackhead on speed, making it to the salon without a minute to spare. Loving my "new do," I chatted with my hair dresser, getting caught up on all the latest gossip.
Afterwards, on the way home, I stopped by the drug store to pick up some mascara. An hour later and four plastic sacks filled full of "stuff" plus the mascara, I left for the grocery store to buy milk and eggs. And felt rather pleased with myself for only getting those two items.
Back at the house, putting the milk and eggs in the fridge, the door bell rang. My mail lady had a package for me. A friend who lives out of town had sent me the cutest long sleeve shirt. Well, I had to try it on right then and ran to the bedroom.
Admiring myself in the mirror with a "new do" and a new shirt, the phone rang. My neighbor wanted me to come over to help her hang a new painting on their wall. I hopped over to her house across the street. We hung the picture, which is gorgeous, she liked my new hair style and shirt and we talked up a storm about girl stuff. Eventually, I noticed through her living room window the light outside seemed to be fading.
Every evening, a friend of mine and I walk the race track over at the nearby middle school. Hurrying home to change into my walking clothes, I called Lisa to let her know I was running late and would be there shortly. At the track we both got tickled with each other because she too, had been to her hair dresser and had gotten a new cut and style. Which looks adorable on her. We lost track of time, talking and laughing and walked for an hour and a half.
Back at the house again, I stripped my clothes off on the way to the bathroom to bathe. In the shower with the hot water cascading over my neck and shoulders, exhaustion settled in my old bones. I couldn't beleive how tired I felt as one yawn came after the other. It dawned on me in the shower that being the caffeine addict I am, I hadn't had any all day.
Too pooped to care, I dried off and put my jammies back on. The dogs went nuts running to the garage door, which meant my husband had made it home with our supper. It was 9:00pm. I slipped on my house shoes and shuffled my way to greet him in the garage.
On the way, I looked at the jeans piled high on the bed, still unwashed. The pantry door stood open in the kitchen with the trash container jutting out waiting for a fresh plastic bag. On the counter top lay four bags stuffed with goodies from the drug store. In the living room, in the middle of the floor like a soldier standing sentry, stood the vacuum cleaner with a packed bag sticking out its side. The laundry basket sat on the coffee table piled high with unfolded towels.
Out in the garage the large trash bag sat next to the washing machine.
My husband's eyes scanned my body, clad in jammies and said laughing, "Hi Honey. I see you're still in your pajamas. What did you do today?"
Smiling sweetly, I kissed him hello and replied, "Tried to make a pot of coffee."
Signing off and Happy Trails to all--
Cherri
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Making Headway
I admit I've been slow to post on my blog...but really, I've been busy. And that's pretty much a pet peeve with me when people tell me how busy they've been. Life's short, slow down a bit. The earth won't turn any faster trying to keep up, so why is everyone trying to outrun it?
Well, I blinked and POOF! time got ahead of me. During the Christmas Holidays, my husband and I took an incredible road trip driving from Houston, where we live, to New Mexico, Arizona, California, and over to Nevada. Then reversed it all and drove back home. IN SIX DAYS!!! Just driving through Texas ate up twelve of our precious hours on the road.
Then we returned on the day before I was scheduled for back surgery. Which I might add has been successful and that's another reason for not posting. So, my excuses are legit, as I've been out of town, on the road, and surgery- recuperating.
Getting back into writing mode full-throttle, rockets blaring makes me VERY happy--
So, I'm returning at a snail's pace once again and here's wishing everyone a prosperous and joyous NEW YEAR ahead,
Cherri
Well, I blinked and POOF! time got ahead of me. During the Christmas Holidays, my husband and I took an incredible road trip driving from Houston, where we live, to New Mexico, Arizona, California, and over to Nevada. Then reversed it all and drove back home. IN SIX DAYS!!! Just driving through Texas ate up twelve of our precious hours on the road.
Then we returned on the day before I was scheduled for back surgery. Which I might add has been successful and that's another reason for not posting. So, my excuses are legit, as I've been out of town, on the road, and surgery- recuperating.
Getting back into writing mode full-throttle, rockets blaring makes me VERY happy--
So, I'm returning at a snail's pace once again and here's wishing everyone a prosperous and joyous NEW YEAR ahead,
Cherri
Thursday, December 6, 2007
A Day For My Keepsake Book
Saturday, December 1st, I held my first booksigning ever! That day will stay with me for the rest of my life.
From surprises to sheer thrills, the day unfolded. And many thanks goes to everyone who attended for making my debut signing for THE SCENT OF MONEY one of the greatest days in my life.
Debo, Stacie, you two knocked me off my feet when you hugged me...how cool is it to have one of my best friends and her little sister travel all the way from DeRidder, Louisiana just to see me? I can tell you, that was one of the most endearing moments of my day. Especially when it's been years since we've seen each other!
Publishers, Linda Houle and Lisa Rene Smith stood at my side and made me feel more special than I could have dreamed possible.
Author, John Foxjohn dropped in to say hello and gave us some laughs to keep us going for the rest of the day.
Several of my best friends came to eat cake, laugh, and of course buy a copy of my book. To Lessie, Bella, Dave, and Bill--my heart is yours. (Lessie and Bella are part of my Sisters By Heart)
And what would a signing be like without my friend and Veterinarian, Dr. Karla Hilliard and her husband, Nate? She came with her husband and two gorgeous children in tow to participate and share in my debut signing. And to you Dr. Karla, I thank you! To Sheridan and Rowan, I am so glad your Mommy brought you and thank you Nate for coming to the gala.
For all the strangers I met that day, you are no longer strangers--thank you! And to a special little boy, age 8, named Caleb...thank you for bringing to us a delightful sense of where our country's future is headed. You are most definitely on the right track. Keep loving to read, Caleb. You are an inspiration to us all!
A hearty thank you goes out to Debbie, my friend in Victoria, Texas for opening a window into the world of dogs and their behaviors, strengths, and companionship! (she is also a Sister By Heart) And for running one of the greatest boarding kennels ever. Kleinen Zwinger Kennels, where they have warm hearts for cold noses.
To my niece, Jen Fletcher, for creating (in my eyes) the prettiest and best web site in the world!!! She is an amazing woman and convincing her of this is going to take a lot of doing. To Jon, her husband, my nephew, I give you my love every day--for you make me so proud! And to their baby boy, my grand-nephew, catch those kisses sweetie, they're flying your way!
Most importantly, thanks goes to the one man who has always believed in me, encouraged me and has given me every single day since we met his unconditional love...my husband, Steven. He is my rock and my shelter. He's also very smart and makes me laugh every single day! I love you.
For my neighbors, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for coming and sharing in one of the most important days of my life.
And special thanks goes to Woof's Gourmet Pet Bakery for extending their generosity to me in grandest ways...Mark & Mark, you two are the best!!
If I have overlooked anyone, I am sorry--that day flew by in a flash and left me breathless, filled with complete joy, and happiness that'll stay with me for a lifetime.
Oh, and to Tanya, the cake decorator from Kroger's--you did an outstanding job on my cake, girl! Thank you!
The day went more wonderful than could be imagined, and I'm still looking like a plastic surgeon will have to remove the grin off my face -- to everyone, thank you.
Grinning, giggling, and grateful,
Cherri
From surprises to sheer thrills, the day unfolded. And many thanks goes to everyone who attended for making my debut signing for THE SCENT OF MONEY one of the greatest days in my life.
Debo, Stacie, you two knocked me off my feet when you hugged me...how cool is it to have one of my best friends and her little sister travel all the way from DeRidder, Louisiana just to see me? I can tell you, that was one of the most endearing moments of my day. Especially when it's been years since we've seen each other!
Publishers, Linda Houle and Lisa Rene Smith stood at my side and made me feel more special than I could have dreamed possible.
Author, John Foxjohn dropped in to say hello and gave us some laughs to keep us going for the rest of the day.
Several of my best friends came to eat cake, laugh, and of course buy a copy of my book. To Lessie, Bella, Dave, and Bill--my heart is yours. (Lessie and Bella are part of my Sisters By Heart)
And what would a signing be like without my friend and Veterinarian, Dr. Karla Hilliard and her husband, Nate? She came with her husband and two gorgeous children in tow to participate and share in my debut signing. And to you Dr. Karla, I thank you! To Sheridan and Rowan, I am so glad your Mommy brought you and thank you Nate for coming to the gala.
For all the strangers I met that day, you are no longer strangers--thank you! And to a special little boy, age 8, named Caleb...thank you for bringing to us a delightful sense of where our country's future is headed. You are most definitely on the right track. Keep loving to read, Caleb. You are an inspiration to us all!
A hearty thank you goes out to Debbie, my friend in Victoria, Texas for opening a window into the world of dogs and their behaviors, strengths, and companionship! (she is also a Sister By Heart) And for running one of the greatest boarding kennels ever. Kleinen Zwinger Kennels, where they have warm hearts for cold noses.
To my niece, Jen Fletcher, for creating (in my eyes) the prettiest and best web site in the world!!! She is an amazing woman and convincing her of this is going to take a lot of doing. To Jon, her husband, my nephew, I give you my love every day--for you make me so proud! And to their baby boy, my grand-nephew, catch those kisses sweetie, they're flying your way!
Most importantly, thanks goes to the one man who has always believed in me, encouraged me and has given me every single day since we met his unconditional love...my husband, Steven. He is my rock and my shelter. He's also very smart and makes me laugh every single day! I love you.
For my neighbors, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for coming and sharing in one of the most important days of my life.
And special thanks goes to Woof's Gourmet Pet Bakery for extending their generosity to me in grandest ways...Mark & Mark, you two are the best!!
If I have overlooked anyone, I am sorry--that day flew by in a flash and left me breathless, filled with complete joy, and happiness that'll stay with me for a lifetime.
Oh, and to Tanya, the cake decorator from Kroger's--you did an outstanding job on my cake, girl! Thank you!
The day went more wonderful than could be imagined, and I'm still looking like a plastic surgeon will have to remove the grin off my face -- to everyone, thank you.
Grinning, giggling, and grateful,
Cherri
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