It's Out! - Heaven Talks To Children

A year ago, I wrote a piece for a book on life, death, the afterlife, and children. 

Chris Duminiak put together a great resource for both adults and children dealing with a difficult topic.

I'm pleased to announce that the book has gone to publication and is far better than I would have imagined.

Be Careful What You Ask For

I thought I knew what I wanted ... I thought I wanted a gravel yard in the back of my house and grass in the front.  I thought just because I wanted it, the universe would provide (that is if I watered, tended, etc.). 

I didn't count on the fact that all of the years I tried to grow grass in my backyard and I got nothing, it would all change when I got gravel.  Now, I have more grass in the back than there was when I applied tender loving care, all weed resistant.

The front?  Well, it came in with grass - and didn't look too bad.  Unfortunatley, the grass that grows well is Bermuda. The hotter, the faster the grass grows.  Last night I went from reasonable to a jungle.

Next time, I'll ask for a thirteen year old with ambition to keep the gravel grass free and the front mowed.

In Praise of Story Tellers

My entire family has always told stories. I don't know if it is because my grandparents and parents were influenced by radio plays or if it was a way to entertain kids when they were on vacation. 

It doesn't much matter.

What does matter? 

Stories.

Varying and unusual stories. Stories where the people don't always behave the way the audience wants.  Stories where people grow and develop.  Stories about the little things that are/were important.

Why do I want to write stories?

Easy. 

I want to see if I can take my imagination and make it (somewhat) credible. Can I get characters to speak in his/her own voice (opposed to all sounding the same)?  Can I elicit an emotional response from the reader? Can I entertain my family and friends?

Some days I think I am up to the challenge.  Then there are other days - the days when the editor sends back a piece that was emotional and difficult and he/she doesn't get it.  There are weeks when the muse is silent and sipping tropical drinks on an island somewhere and didn't invite me.

We'll see how it all goes - and if it continues to go.

Crossing fingers.

decisions, decisions

Do you remember being a kid and being set free on the playground?  All of the choices and they were all amazing, wonderful, and an adventure.

Unfortunately, when we get older, sometimes the number of choices is overwhelming.  Where to start?  How long to stay?  Which is the best thing and why?

That's what writing feels like now - too many choices to the point of overwhelm.  Sometimes I wish there were still a playground monitor available to hold the choices down to a dull roar and focus my energy. 

What happens after the HEA?

I have always believed in HEA - happily ever after. I think it is part of the American culture, at least the one that little girls grew up with.

The thing is, I've always wondered about what happens after the HEA?

• Did Cinderella have an incredible life with Prince Charming after he whisked her away and married her or were the kids spoiled brats?
• Did Snow White let Prince Charming kiss her again or did he send her to the dentist because she had halitosis?
• Did Red Riding Hood secretly wear a fur coat, stroke it and gloat?

I think each of us actually is granted at least one HEA in our lifetimes.  There is a condition on it; we are required freeze that moment in time as proof that it can and does happen.  It is the what happens next that isn't always so clear.

Just something to ponder.