Sarah Kades, Writer

Writing communities

2012-01-22T08:25:00.001-08:00

I know I've talked about it before, but I'm going to chat about it again. The power of having a supportive writing community is incredible. It doesn't have to be super organized, although that is nice.

I recently did the proverbial coffee with a writer friend and that hour and a half or so completely spiked my focus and attention. It breathed fresh air into my writing practice.

The following week my critique group and I had our bi-weekly meeting. We met at a new place (more fresh energy) and I thought it was a good meeting but after reflecting and processing I realized it was a frickin' amazing turning point for me and the story I am working on.

The choice is yours who you include in your writers' circle. Remember trust and relevance to you.

And of course remember to have fun. That's why you are writing in the first place, right?

Happy weekend.

The power of the synopsis as a writing tool

2012-01-16T07:37:00.000-08:00

I consider myself a pretty organic writer, but I am learning the benefit of using the synopsis as a writing tool. I suppose it is part of the writing journey and finding your own groove, but when I first heard of this it sounded very different than how my brain does the creative process and I shook my head in oh-no, not a chance. I want to flow.

The more I write, though, the more my brain and my creative process wants that organized synopsis. It sounds almost counter-intuitive to me and my vision of flow (I'm still in my writing style transition), but I am realizing now that scenes are freer to flow when I know what I want them to do ahead of time. I can sit down and write the scene fully, not with my attention split between the scene and wondering how the story is going to unfold. It is less stressful, too. People are masters at creating unnecessary stress. Why do we do that?

It also saves a lot of time rewriting scenes. And as characters develop and take on a life of their own, stay flexible and fluid to roll with your authentic character. Seriously, sometimes those characters feel so real in their persistence on how a story is going to go. You know what I'm talking about.

An older colleague of mine always says make a choice. If you find it doesn't work for you, make another choice. Don't stall yourself in indecision, though, that in itself is a choice, too. Make a choice, you can always make another one later if you need to, but don't have your life stall in indecision.

Works for stories, too. Make a choice. Decide your story, you are always free to change your mind, but in the meantime, you have a conscious game plan.

Happy Monday!

Happy New Year

2012-01-03T19:55:00.001-08:00

Welcome 2012! I've been thinking about goals lately. What can I say, the new year is inspiring. What writing goals do I have? Hmm. Good question. That bland I-want-to-write-more is just that, bland. Give yourself a real goal. You're worth it. Jump in. Take on the writer inside and let her out.

I'm going to look my time management in the face and rock it.

Happy Solstice, and getting creative with time

2011-12-21T08:50:00.000-08:00

Happy Solstice a day early! Writing has taken a back burner to getting ready for the holidays, but a bit of reading here and there has helped kept me grounded, though.

Now is a good time to remind myself - and anyone else it could help- to take advantage of the 'thinking airtime' when doing the more mindless household and holiday (you know, dishes, wrapping, baking, cleaning, etc.) tasks to keep your head wrapped around your manuscript so when you do get back to it you can rock and roll!

Happy Holidays everyone!

Comedy in our writing, what is the perfect amount?

2011-10-25T15:24:00.001-07:00

I've noticed something in the current fiction book I am reading, there is a threshold for comedy.

Who knew, right? This author is brilliantly funny . . . which I love, but because there is so much of it, the jokes have less punch than they would if there was more space in between punch lines. The zingers are getting lost among joke after joke after joke after joke. Each one of these jokes, independently, would have me on the floor in hoots laughing, nearly peeing my pants. But the sheer volume has made me numb to them. Shoot!

How can this be? I love to laugh when I'm reading. I had no idea you could have too many snappy lines. Dang!

So, how much is too much? How much comedy is just right? What amount for each story is at that perfect equilibrium, that perfect harmony that makes each zinger have zam!

Good question. Hmm, how about trust the handy tips of reading your work out loud and asking your trusted writing partners for a read-through. There is also the completely tangible you'll just know.

Whatever you decide, good luck!

Writing Conflict in Scenes

2011-10-18T19:51:00.000-07:00

A writer friend of mine laments her ability to write conflict in scenes. First off, she is way too hard on herself! She writes scenes with fantastic, unexpected conflict. But the topic raises an interesting question - how do we put more conflict in our scenes, and not just any conflict, fresh conflict? As a writer you want your work to be new and fresh. That includes the conflict.

I love the idea of conflict that makes you laugh, too. I want to laugh when I'm reading novels and writing conflict can give you an opportunity for that, a comedy of errors sort of thing.

So, have fun with your conflict! I know I am!

Happy Writing, Happy Reading!

Writers' conferences

2011-10-17T20:42:00.001-07:00

I know I'm a bit tardy checking the stats for this, but my blog got a fantastic spike during the month of August. The steamy month of August prompts people to check out romance novelists blogs? Maybe . . . but I'm guessing it has more to do with me being a panelist at the When Words Collide Conference that was held in August in Calgary.

Take home message to other new writers - get out there! I had a great time, and got advertising to boot. Sure I had those public speaking butterflies. You know, speaking, about romance writing, to a group with a lot of non-romance writers in the crowd was a bit intimidating and made me second guess what in the world I had been thinking. But it was awesome!

So if any of you are wondering if you want to jump into something like that, I hope you do, and I hope it is an incredibly rewarding experience!

Happy Writing and Happy Reading!

Scene Sequences

2011-10-16T18:22:00.000-07:00

Right now I am working on scene sequences. . . shuffling, moving around, finding just the right place for each scene I've have so far. I know there are writers way more methodical than me, but this is how my creative process rolls.

A story idea kicks around in my head. I start writing, sometimes writing and writing and writing, before I decide it is time to hammer out a rough outline. And to me, outlines are more a suggestion to follow then set in stone. Then writing those scenes, give or take, from the outline.

And now I am finding the joy. . . and maybe indecision . . . with scene sequences. Hmm, about that methodical approach, might have some gems in that . . .

But through it all, I can say I am having a great time! That's one of the cool parts about writing, even when you are working on the mechanical parts of a story - where do I put everything - it is still creative and fun and figuring out how you are going to communicate your characters' stories.

For all of you writers out there, hope you are having a blast. For all you readers out there, hope you are digging what we are writing!

PS, I finally saw Pearl Jam in concert last month - now I know what the big Eddie deal is. Ok, not fair, the whole band rocked! Thanks PJ.

Page Turners

2011-09-12T13:45:00.000-07:00

Hey friends. I was just reading a romantic suspense, a genre I am quite fond of, btw. The story started good, plot interesting enough, tension between the characters good, dialogue good, but it started to fizzle. I kept reading, hoping it'd come back around. It had a few bursts of inspiration, then tanked enough I put the book down. Aw crap. I hate that. I started out caring what happened to the characters, but then I found my mind wandering to what else I had to do that day, what I should make for dinner, etc. Red flag, but the book down and go make dinner, or run those errands, whatever.

Silverlining? Gets me thinking how I can write stories that keep my readers engaged, riveted even? What do my stories need that will keep my readers turning page after page after page, running late for work or staying up way too late at night because they are so into the story?

Those are the kind of stories I am striving for. Those are the stories I love to read.

Hope everyone finds a fantastic new author they love today!

Happy reading, happy writing!

Women's Writers' Weekends

2011-08-17T16:11:00.000-07:00

I'm scheduled to participate in a Women's Writers Weekend. Hours of writing intermixed with discussion, assigned topics, and I'm thinking wine. Excellent. I've never participated in one of these before, but sounds like a great idea/time to me.

I'll keep you posted.

When Words Collide, Calgary 2011

2011-08-14T13:08:00.000-07:00

This weekend is the first annual When Words Collide conference/festival in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. I popped in yesterday for way less time than I would have liked, but what I did experience was wonderful! The sheer volume of attendees was inspiring. Special thanks goes out to the lovely woman working the registration table who helped this frazzled panelist get to the right spot on time! Thank you!

So yes, I had the great pleasure of being a panelist in one of the sessions. It is pure magic sitting in a room full of writers, of all genres. Writers coming together is such a powerful thing. And fun! Talking about romantic components to all genre fiction writing was great, especially with that crowd. To everyone who attended, thank you, hope we helped, and have a GREAT rest of your weekend. Happy writing! Especially the tension parts. . .

Take care writers and readers! Happy Summer!

Calgary Stampede, Camping, Writing, When Words Collide, oh my!

2011-08-04T12:42:00.001-07:00

Good grief, summer is blasting by! What fun, though!

The novel continues. For anyone who ever wondered about writing, try it. It's REALLY fun! Each time I get back to my manuscript, it feels so good diving back into my characters. Fantastically fun. Try it!

The Calgary Stampede was last month. I went three times. . . I'm a bit horse-happy. Incredible animals. Just being near them makes me a happy kid.

I also went to see Kevin Costner and the Modern West perform. I had no expectations, just thought it sounded like fun to check out. I had a great time! His voice and the actual playing is good, but it's the energy of the songs and lyrics that pack the real punch. Some music you listen to and are entertained. Other music you listen to and you feel it it at your very core. Nice work Kevin and company!

Special thanks to my friend who accompanied me. You know who you are. What a blast! Thanks for the straight up good fun! And the mini donuts.

Last weekend was the Long Weekend in Canada. I had the pleasure of camping in Kootenay Lake country in British Columbia. Dang, that's heaven! I just want to go jump in the lake!!

I've got a Women's Writing Weekend coming up. What's that? I'm so glad you asked. It is when a group of women writers congregate at the same spot for a weekend and write write write. Ok, there might be a bottle of wine in there sometime, too.

Then there's the When Words Collide conference/festival. Stay tuned for more info!

Happy Day!

Book Signing

2011-06-02T20:45:00.001-07:00

I have my first store book signing this weekend. Exciting and nerve-wracking all at the same time.

So I wrote of writing schedules the last post and I have to say I'm digging having one. Ah focus, it's a powerful thing.

Happy Day Eveyone.

Type A

2011-04-01T15:26:00.000-07:00

I'm thinking I could use a bit more Type A in my personality. Anyone else? I feel this amazing drive to organize everything in my, well, life. How exciting. Must be spring.

Anyway, I was playing back a conversation I had with a friend of mine who is very organized. She loves order, and structure. I was marveling what a different life I would have if I followed that. Hmm. something to ponder.

That leads me to writing schedules . . . pro or con? When is writing creative and when is it on a timeline. How can I effectively reconcile those two energies and make them play brilliantly well together?

Guess you guys know what I'm doing this weekend.

Happy Day Everyone. May the World have a Great Weekend!

climbing and bouldering . . .

2011-03-29T13:05:00.000-07:00

My climbing chronicles continue. I checked out Stronghold on the weekend for the first time. Ooh, I am delighted!! I'm still sticking to bouldering. That height thing might get in the way of the whole fun thing. And, I like not having to fart around with harnesses and ropes . . . and scheduling playtime when climbing friends can come out for belaying partners.

Ahem, if you guys are reading this, seriously, lets go!

Anyway, so I went. And had a ball. Now might be a good time to share my love of green runs for skiing. How does this apply to my climbing adventures? Keep reading. I can ski, by myself, all day on green runs. I know, sounds boring to many. Why stick to green runs? Well, I don't go often, so the few times I do go I want to play all day, not scare the bageezes out of myself in the Rockies. So, I stick to green runs, and have my happy, safe time. . . I did ski my first bowl at Kicking Horse, though . . .

Back to bouldering. So I stayed on the simple wall for the most part. Had a great time just playing and practicing moving across the wall. I tried some of the wee overhanging walls and learned I need to work on building up my giganto muscles (that was a joke). Tons-O fun and I did a lovely job of ripping open several fingers. Writers need callouses, too! How about that. :o)

Spring . . . kinda

2011-03-29T12:56:00.000-07:00

So spring is here. . . technically. I saw a robin when I opened the curtains on Spring Equinox (I know I'm tardy writing about it, equinox was a week and a half ago). Anyway, the robin, that was cool. A welcome sign. And a smile in what was a rather grumpy start to such an extraordinary day.

Writing continues. It is different going for the full-length novel instead of the novella. Different, but I dig both of them. Storytelling is storytelling. And I love it.

On the reader front, I was ecstatic to find a new-to-me author, Christie Craig. I read her Shut Up and Kiss Me first, followed by Gotcha. I enjoyed both, but Shut Up and Kiss Me was my favorite of the two. I like it when a book inspires me to laugh out loud. Well done Christie!! Your characters - awesome! Thank you!

Happy Day!!

Climbing Gym and bouldering

2011-01-28T15:37:00.001-08:00

I finally went to a climbing gym for the first time. Wall climbing was fine, but bouldering was incredible.

I loved it.

When can I play again?

And again, and again, and again!

Now, which new character is going to climb? He's going to be really hot.

I love writing romance novels . . .

Went to a writing workshop on the senses last night. Tune into your senses. Now that is another way to be present.

That and climbing.

Happy Day everyone.

2011-01-13T16:37:00.000-08:00

Why do we love the characters we do?

One of my yardsticks is do I want to have a coffee or beer with them. Some of my favorite books have characters I want to be friends with . . . you know, if they were real and all. :o)

Of course I love strong characters that have vulnerable sides/facets - often hidden, tucked away to emerge only with certain people, experiences, etc., but are overall strong, alpha.

Ok, and hot. I write romance.

I love writing. I love getting to know characters as the story progresses. Like getting to know a friend, I guess.

Happy Day All!

2011-01-12T18:39:00.000-08:00

I bought my dog one of those dogie backpacks. My plan is to maximize our walks and try out the whole concept of dogs having a job, i.e. carrying the backpack. I'm taking Cesar Millan's advice (just read Cesar's Way). Ok, and the advice of my local pet store's, too.

Now, if the weather could lighten up on the -35 degrees, that would be great! Didn't bode well for the busted furnace at work, either. Brrr.

Story plots and character development really do flow on those dog walks, too.

Happy night everyone!

2011-01-11T19:40:00.000-08:00

Ah friends! Life savers, really. :o)

I have a story that has a million, ok maybe twenty different directions it could go. So what do I do. Well . . . I might have done a bit of fretting. Maybe even a bit of cursing. And I shook my fist at this story and these characters and wondered what in the heck they were trying to tell me.

Their seemingly chaotic limbo is really just a way for me to settle down. Then they'll settle down.

I asked a friend for help, too. What a beautiful grounder. Thank You!!

2011-01-02T21:02:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone! 2011, WELCOME!!

I'm so excited for this year. It's a great feeling when each year feels even better than the last. I'm totally digging the current story I'm writing and more are banging around in my head.

So now the question, one story at a time, or not? I'm sticking to that for now, but geez, some of these other stories are certainly loud. What fun! It's a good issue to have that - multiple stories bubbling up.

Cheers to more time writing! More time playing! More time Living!

Happy New Year indeed.

2010-12-10T16:44:00.000-08:00

Hmmm, more and more writing!! Yippie!! Time to carve out chunks of time to writing than the 5 minute snippets. How exciting!

The last story had a few road blocks. So I took the plunge and used my delete key. Why is that such a charged thing to do? Aaaah, feels better though. I feel the flow again. More excitement!!

The delete key CAN be our friend if we let it. :o)

My local writing group started ticking along after the summer "holiday". Sadly, I missed a good month or two while the rest of life was flying.

Happy Holidays All!

2010-08-23T09:46:00.001-07:00

Ah Monday! I'm pretty stoked about how Aaron and Savannah's story is going. I love it when I'm writing and the characters get more and more like friends instead of words on a page.

The writer's group I belong to is having an editor event in a month. Geez, it's coming up fast!! Anyone who wants to check out a workshop with Chris Roerden, check out Alberta Romance Writer's Association!!

Now, for the TO-DO list!!

Happy Day All!

Pacific Northwest Holiday

2010-08-19T18:16:00.000-07:00

We just got back from an incredible holiday to the Pacific Northwest of the U.S.! Wow, gorgeous. Camping, hiking, playing on the coast, visiting family, tons-O seafood. Yup, even with a broken arm it was a great trip. Special thanks to my husband for all the work and to my little one for being *for the most part* easy-going with momma's casted arm!

2010-07-23T19:14:00.000-07:00

Tuesday night, soccer game, rec soccer game, the other team's goalie beats me to the ball and kicks it. Sadly the palm of my hand got in the way. Ow. My radius and ulna - busted. Really big ouch.

I'm learning how to type one-handed. Makes my writing . . . different. But I'm getting the hang of it.

Still excited Claiming Love will be out in print in a Wings anthology. Stay tuned!

2010-07-16T19:33:00.000-07:00

We went to the Calgary Stampede today. Ohmygoodness . . . on so many levels. Grumpy moods do not improve with rather ridiculous traffic en route to Stampede and even crazier pedestrian traffic inside the grounds. BUUUUUT, big events are always good places for inspiration. And hey, all that traffic I just grumped about I can use as conflict in a story line. See? Silver lining to everything.

Now, onto the weekend. I need to get writing back on the forefront pronto! Hmmm, maybe a hike in the mountains, AND writing!!!!

And patiently waiting the print run for the Wings Series (i.e. Claiming Love!!!!!)

Happy weekend everyone!

2010-06-28T15:22:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been awhile. Lots to catch up on. I went to Spruce Meadows for the opening tournament of the season. Two thumbs up. AND it was super cool to see one of my favorite musical artists ever - Mr. Bruce Springsteen, and wife, supporting their daughter who was competing.

Camping in the mountains . . . only once this season so far, but it was awesome, and memorable. We hiked up a trail, something with Old Goat something in the name of it. No trail marker, just the trail head across from campsite 16. Great directions. They worked, though. Lots of snow higher up still and we had one jolly 'ol time bombing down that stretch of snow, surfing on our boots.

Catch up more later!

Rec Soccer

2010-05-11T20:30:00.000-07:00

Tonight I played my first outdoor soccer game of the season. It started two weeks ago, but house guests and a snow cancellation made tonight my first game. It's a local rec league. Good friends, good games, and a wonderful physical compliment to all the brain work the rest of the day. Ya hoo! Next round of house guests are here. Happy night Everyone!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-10T17:18:00.000-07:00

Hey Friends.

A very Happy Mother's Day to all Mothers past, present and future, too, by the way.

Yesterday was Mother's Day, and my husband surprised me by taking me golfing for the first time. I've been wanting to go for years. It was awesome.

A very big thank you to Mother Nature for the turn of the weather to more golfer friendly!!

Our rounds of house guests are nearly done. The plan is to get back onto a productive writing schedule!! Guests are fun, but I usually slack on the writing then.

Happy Night!

2010-04-17T19:16:00.000-07:00

Today we went to Kananaskis. What a gorgeous day in the mountains. . . frolicking in the water, soaking up the sun, and checking out the wildlife- two moose, a herd of rams, and one really stunning hawk.

Ahh, the outdoors. Thank you.

Happy Weekend everyone.

2010-04-15T16:45:00.000-07:00

Hills, I'm still learning to embrace them.

Today was the second week I rode into work one day. I figure it is for the best if I ease into the biking season. My husband and I used to bike into work year round, everyday, snow and all. I could blame it on the other side of town the trails get shoveled more, but nah, that's not it. I just have to get back into that mentality.

So for all of you biking/walking commuters out there, well done. Good job! May I get to be one of you again.

Happy Thursday all!

2010-04-14T08:00:00.001-07:00

Hey friends. Aaron's story is coming along quite nicely. Aaron, from Claiming Love, informed me awhile ago he wanted his story told. Enter Savannah. Savannah's character is letting me know who she is, too. It's funny how you can start in a direction for a character and then he or she will let you know if that is the way of it or not. Savannah and Aaron certainly have continued the tradition. And I thank them very much! Characters can be so rich, so full of life if we let them be.

So can we, if we allow ourselves to be.

Thank you Keely.

May the world have an amazing day.

2010-04-12T18:21:00.000-07:00

I just started reading the book Last Child in the Woods. I type this as my 21 month old is doing laps around the first floor. I know it's freezing rain outside now, but she could have used some outdoor time today for sure!

So far the book has hit on exactly what the outdoors does for me. It is my sanctuary, my friend, my perspective - it is essential to me, grounds me, and lifts me up. When I haven't had my outdoor time, I feel it in every area of my life.

We just got back from a trip to Oregon. I feel the waves of the ocean, still. Thank god. It's hard not to.

Have fun, go play outside.

Oregon Coast

2010-04-09T16:49:00.001-07:00

We just got back from a road trip to Oregon. Road tripping with the family (could have been sketchy, we have a toddler), was awesome!

Oregon is a beautiful state with a ton of different ecological regions. I had never been, so driving through was a treat. My favorite was the coast (I'm a water kid through and through). Those relentless, pounding waves - they move me, inspire me, every time I see them.

Characters and story ideas were everywhere. We really can draw inspiration from all around us.

This week I have gotten back into my 'regular' schedule, but the glow of our trip remains.

Thank you Oregon for the incredible time!

Spring Equinox

2010-03-20T14:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Ostara everyone!

It is the first day of spring. I celebrated by planting house plants. It is gorgeous outside, so a walk or a cup of coffee outside sounds pretty darn good, too.

I've been meaning to decorate for spring the last two weeks. But, meaning to and actually doing are two different things. So, the decorations are in my head for the time being.

The writing keeps going. Snippets at a time more than full blocks of time. But that's ok. It still works and is still fun!

I went to the Calgary Flames game last night with a few co-workers. 4-3 Calgary over San Jose. Thank you work.

Happy Spring Equinox everyone!

2010-03-18T17:12:00.000-07:00

Ostara is on Saturday. Welcome Spring!

I haven't written in awhile. My time management skills need honing. But, I have been keeping busy with a local writer's group I joined last fall. The sense of community and knowledge sharing and inspiration and regular workshops/meetings are an incredibly potent mix.

Calgary Flames hockey game tomorrow! Cheers to work functions that include NHL tickets, burgers and beer.

Have an awesome Thursday night everyone!

2010-02-14T17:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

We spent the day hiking in the mountains. Not enough snow for snowshoeing, so we went hiking instead. As luck would have it, we saw the coyote on the east side of Calgary- nothing in the mountains.

Whoo-hoo! The Olympics are on!! I'm digging them!

Have an awesome day, everyone!

Vancouver 2010

2010-02-12T16:50:00.000-08:00

The Winter Olympics start today. Vancouver 2010.

I went to the Atlanta Summer Games in 1996. There is something magical about the Olympics to me. I know the luster has been tarnished over the years, but they still give me hope. I'll watch them on TV everyday. I love sport and I love events that bring people together. Maybe cheesy, and even naive in these times, but that's okay.

Happy Olympics, Happy Valentine's Day, Happy Family Day Weekend.

Adventures of Website Creation

2010-02-03T16:18:00.000-08:00

Writing is simmering. I love it when a story is simmering in my brain, when I catch myself thinking about the current book I'm writing throughout my day, plotting, figuring out characters, weaving... It's a good sign for me. That's the sign I've plugged into a story, when it consumes waking moments previously reserved for the grocery list, or diaper bag contents, or replaying whatever happened in my day. Now I'm testing dialogue and story development.

My daughter and I went to the Garden Centre today. I know, it's February only, but I wanted that dose of spring and hope and anticipation that garden centers are so good at providing. I was not disappointed. We have a cheery pot of Narcissus as a souvenir.

My website is still in-the-works. I've hit a few snags to unravel/figure out. This might be a job for Super Brother!

Happy Wednesday Everyone.

2010-01-28T17:21:00.000-08:00

Ok, so we are getting back on track after a rather nasty, and blessedly short, stomach flu or something. Nearly back top myself. I celebrated with reading a book. Sounds weird, maybe, but in my world, that is a breath of fresh air.

This is short. Happy Night everyone!

2010-01-25T12:32:00.000-08:00

So my Reiki appointment was cancelled, but, the Universe winked anyways in that amazing, Divine Wink sort of way. Vague, I know, but it worked out splendidly!

I'm also learning, first hand, the amazing power of working with rocks and crystals. The earth heals and teaches. I always knew that intuitively (go for a walk outside and you know what I mean), now I'm actually getting it in the physical life. Cool.

My little one had a GREAT nap this am and I got several hundred words written! This is an awesome feat. Yaah!

Happy Monday!

Reiki

2010-01-23T08:22:00.000-08:00

I'm going to my first Reiki session today. I've been thinking about checking it out for years. Well, here goes! I don't know what to expect, but I think that is a good thing. Often expectations limit us.

Snow has returned to southern Alberta. The Chinook was long and welcome. Now, time for winter sports. Next weekend snowshoeing and cross country skiing is on the plate. Along with some serious hot tub time.

Good Weekend everyone!

2010-01-22T16:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday Everyone. Wow, what a week...

So tomorrow I am having lunch with a friend. Such a simple act, but it means the world right now. Family, writing, work, me, all jockey for time. I'm not complaining. I am blessed in a million different ways everyday.

The uncharacteristic fog and chilly temperatures made for a gorgeous crystal display on everything today. I wonder if mascara was inspired by that. Seriously beautiful. My am walk with my four-legged one was a thing of beauty and wonder.

Look around. See the beauty.

2010-01-13T13:13:00.000-08:00

Another gorgeous, sunny day in Alberta. We took a field trip to one of my favorite, wee bookstores in the neighborhood, too. I haven't popped in in ages. The owner, who has kids too, hung out w/ my little one while I part shopped, part kept on eye on my beautiful little mischief maker.

I have been working on time management, writing management, life management. The list is long and eventful (wink). I had 10,000 words on my latest work done, only to cut 600 words during an edit. I edit as I go, good or bad, that's what I do. But, the great news is, I'm writing!

Happy Wednesday World,

Sarah

The Chinook Continues

2010-01-12T06:05:00.000-08:00

The Chinook Continues. Blessedly, beautiful, balmy weather for the middle of January. I love winter, but I welcome most chinooks. A breath of spring periodically throughout winter. Sure, the wind can blast you, but it is warm.

I love winter sports, but this season I have barely gone out. Hmm, must remedy that now! I still have several months, I guess I shouldn't be too hard on myself - snicker.

Happy Tuesday everyone!

December 24th

2009-12-24T13:55:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve. I stood on the shores of Lake Ontario today. Blustery and beautiful. The park was quiet. Not everyone has an affinity to whipping wind and rolling waves. But I do, though. I thought it a wonderful way to pay my respects to the season.

Whatever you may be celebrating tonight, may you be merry and surrounded by those you love, and who love you.

Blessings.

Holiday Shopping

2009-12-09T12:42:00.000-08:00

I ventured out to do some holiday shopping with the 1.5 year old. Entertaining! She fell asleep before the toy store. That is a blessing and a disappointment. I don't know who likes the toy store more, me or her!

So, that trip will have to wait for another time.

The days are getting shorter. And colder . Winter Solstice is almost here! I've had the opportunity to live outside during the spring and summer for work, but never the fall and winter. For obvious reasons, BRRR. But, the connection to the natural world when you are so submersed in it, is awesome. I've never had that in the other seasons. Simple remedy, get my butt outside more!

Happy Holidays, Everyone!

Sun coming up.

2009-12-08T17:13:00.000-08:00

Two hours to get into work this am. Yikes. Silver-lining- we watched the sun come up while waiting in traffic. There is beauty everywhere. It is up to us if we notice.

Happy Night

Christmas shopping at the Zoo

2009-12-07T11:23:00.000-08:00

We went Christmas shopping at the zoo this am. I know, zoos, issues. So do malls. I must say, though, that it is wonderful to have a conservatory to get a splash of vegetation on a blustery, bright Alberta morning, and get Christmas shopping done.

May everyone have a wonderful day and cheers to all the reasons to celebrate in life!

Winter is here!

2009-12-06T17:47:00.000-08:00

You know those types of snowstorms that snow and blow and cars get stuck everywhere? We had one of those on Friday that rolled into Saturday. So, it was a weekend of staying at home. I have to admit, I'm a bit stir-crazy, and this was only a couple days. This does not bode well for the -30 weather that usually makes an appearance here sometime in the winter... That's ok, though. I've got a new pair of cross country skis to lay with. Playing outside in the snow makes the weather better... it does, really...

Snowshoeing is calling my name, too.

Happy Day Everyone! Cheers to Winter!

2009-09-16T20:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Wednesday!

Special thanks to Tatti today. She took me out for lunch and it had been one of those days where the simple act meant the world. So, thanks!

Never do for someone else, what you won't do for yourself. That line whispered into my consciousness today. Take care of yourselves, everyone! Remember self-care.

Spruce Meadows

2009-09-14T18:07:00.000-07:00

We went to The Masters Tournament at Spruce Meadows last Thursday. I love it there. What a gem to have it so close. Thank you to everyone who makes the various tournaments happen.

Ruby has stopped calling horses 'doggies' and they are now 'horsies'.

Fall is tickling summer here in the shadow of the Rockies. Gorgeous. The seasons turning are beautiful.

Happy Monday everyone!

2009-08-11T17:28:00.000-07:00

Ta-da! Thank you Tara for the help putting the contest up! Looks good. Good Luck everyone who enters!

Tara told me about the picture before I actually saw it. It's cool how each of us can take the same subject matter and run with it. I had so much fun writing Claiming Love. Thanks again Tara!

Happy Tuesday Everyone

A contest with Wings

2009-08-11T11:40:00.000-07:00

Take flight with four Amira Press authors by participating in a great contest giveaway! Each author will be giving away one copy of their book from the Wings Series available through Amira Press.

This whole project started with a simple picture, a man with strap on wings walking through a forest. After gathering like minded authors, we put our heads together and came up with a few ground rules, basically, there weren't any. We had a few fall backs, our original publisher closed but Anastasia and Brieanna quickly thought of Amira Press and we were on our way again. Once all of the stories were in Brieanna made sure everything was as it should be and Anastasia created our beautiful covers.

The stories range from sensual to hot.

All you need to do is email us at wingsseries@gmail.com, list the book(s) you are interested in, and we will sign you up for our author newsletters. The contest starts August 5th, 2009, and ends October 5th, 2009. All Winners will be notified via email.

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A Walk Between Worlds by Anastasia Rabiyah

Author Website

bio:

Anastasia Rabiyah writes erotic romance, paranormal erotic romance, and dark fantasy. She often crosses genres in order to follow her muses into the darkness where they seek out destiny in all its forms. She believes in fairies, demons, angels, magic, passion, chocolate, supportive friends, e-books, and writing critique groups. Her deepest desire is to pursue her creative dreams and realize them. Every spare moment she devotes to writing for her haunting muses. Visit her online at http://RabiyahBooks.com

Book Link

Book Blurb:

Treila is the second born twin and heir to the Telen throne after her sister’s untimely death. Her sister, whose magic was of the light, of faith, love and hope, was the one intended to rule Telen, not Treila, whose magic is so obviously of the darkness. Faced with having to wed the Nor King in order to save her city from destruction, she leaves Telen, hoping to discover what became of her sister. She ventures to the cliffs of Plemae where the angels dwell, for it was a dark angel who stole her sister away, but before she can get any answers, she is captured and brought before the demon king in the sky palace. There she is thrown into an unwieldy alliance with the very dark angel who kidnapped her sister—Kolar, now an outcast traitor for standing against his master. Together, she and her enemy must escape the demons and return to Telen before the full moon and the Nor King’s attack. As much as she wants to hate Kolar, Treila can’t deny her heated attraction to the dark winged angel despite who he is and what he has done to change her life.

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Honey Wine by Brieanna Robertson

Author Website

Bio:

If someone were to ask me what I am, it could be summed up in one, simple word: Dreamer. Ever since I was a small child my imagination has run wild. I have been telling stories for as long as I can remember, creating grand worlds in my head and going on adventures that were invisible to others around me. Am I eccentric? Yes. Am I proud of that? Absolutely.

I write about the things that inspire me, both in this world and in realms only seen with the imagination. My heroines are sassy and strong. My heroes are sometimes shy. I have an obsession with music (and musicians) and a fascination with wings. I believe true love does exist, and sometimes it is found in the strangest, most unexpected places. I also believe that family and close friends are the glue that hold people together.

Above all things, I believe in being true to yourself and seizing the day. Life is an amazing gift. Make your experience as beautiful as you possibly can.

Book Link

Book Blurb:

When Autumn finds a sexy, winged statue among her deceased uncle’s belongings, she thinks he’ll make a great decoration for her bedroom, as well as her solitary life. What she doesn’t expect is to wake up in the middle of the night and find her statue replaced by a living, breathing, gorgeous man made up of the four elements.

Gabriel’s been a statue for 500 years. He’s lost, confused, and wreaking havoc on the human realm.

In an effort to get Gabriel home, Autumn experiences adventure she’d never even dreamed about. But will they be able to survive the greatest adventure of all - falling in love?

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Awakening the Blood

Author Website

Bio:

Ever since Tara Nichols was a little girl she has had an affinity for romantic adventures. With crushes on the likes of Tarzan and Hans Solo she grew up looking for the perfect gentleman rogue. When she is not writing about romance, erotica or paranormal fiction she can be found tending her garden, keeping bees or reading a spy novel. Tara roams free on the flat prairie land in Manitoba Canada where she lives with her young son and husband.

She can also be found at her author website and guestbook. www.tarasnichols.com

Book Link

Book Blurb:

Reeling from her recent break up, Meara ditches a Halloween party held in a cemetery at the edge of town, and seeks out the one reliable man in her life - who just happens to be a statue with large bat wings. The winged man had always intrigued her, but that just seems to go along with her other idiosyncrasies – her ability to read emotions and dream the future.

Even after years imprisoned in marble, D'iamonte can feel and see everything that goes on around him. Most of the time, his encounters have been unpleasant, but when his beautiful young mortal comes calling, late one Halloween, he is surprised and pleased that she feels bold enough to crawl in to his lap and have her way with him.

Neither of them expects him to wake up.

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Claiming Love by Sarah Kades

Author Website

Bio:

Sarah Kades has always loved happy ending. Her love of adventure, the great outdoors and the past, led her to become an archaeologist. Surrounded by the inspiration of the natural world for years, Sarah couldn’t keep all those stories bubbling up inside any longer. When she is not writing romance novels, you can find her day dreaming new stories, reading whatever story or non-fiction tome catches her fancy, or playing outside. Sarah lives in Calgary, Alberta with her husband, young daughter and their rough-coat collie.

Book Link

Blurb:
As an archaeologist, Elle loves her job. She just doesn't love all the airplanes she has to take. Before her latest flight, she says a quick prayer and as an afterthought throws in a request to meet her Mr. Perfect.

The Goddess, Gaia, assigns Bodin. He is a human angel-in-training who just happens to not believe in love. Grumpy and usually a divine pain, Bodin has met his match with the beautiful archaeologist.

The two explore their budding attraction working in the wild northern forests, but will love come too late or just in time for forever?

2009-08-09T20:05:00.000-07:00

I have the #2 spot on Amira Press' top ten bestseller list!! Yaah!

My father-in-law is visiting, and him and my husband have been on a roll with the house to-do list. Oh yeah!! My mother-in-law calls it a Honey Do list.

So, back to writing. I love it and I am so glad I found it in life. Sounds cheesy, but it's true. It's fun.

I'm still perfecting the art of time management. It's cool, though, and coming together.

This post is all over the place, but I want to add a big Thank You to everyone who has been so supportive of my writing and my first book. I love this journey. Cheers to a lot more fun!

Happy Sunday night everyone!

Waterton National Park

2009-07-31T08:42:00.000-07:00

I'm still floating, I'm so excited my first book is out!! A million thank you to everyone who has helped support it!! I appreciate it!! Thank you!!

We're heading out to Waterton National Park for the weekend!!! Oh yeah.

For those of you not sure where that is, it shares a border with Glacier National Park in Montana and it is gorgeous.

Claiming Love is available!!

2009-07-28T21:23:00.000-07:00

Last Friday Claiming Love was released through Amira Press! I'm so excited!! What a cool journey. Cheers to many more! It was amazing writing it. I had so much fun. I always thought work should really be something fun and something a person enjoys. Well, I found it.

A heartfelt Thank You to Tara S. Nichols.

Now, to figure out the time management. Seriously, that has really been a challenge, so far. Well, here's to figuring it all out, and having a blast doing it.

Thank you to everyone who has purchased Claiming Love. I appreciate it and hope you love it.

Happy Tuesday night!

2009-07-06T19:55:00.000-07:00

And the edits continue. . . :o)

In my nerdiness, I'm actually enjoying this part of the writing process. I'm learning tons and I love it! Thank you super awesome editor.

Happy Independence Day and Happy Canada Day everyone! We celebrated by taking our wee one tent camping in K-Country. She loved it!

FYI, next time, the play yard is coming along!

Hey, Xavier Rudd was in town last night. Ticket miscommunication, so my husband had to tell me what an awesome concert it was. He got me a swanky t-shirt, though. :o) Happy music.

The Calgary Stampede is going on. Yee-haw.

Happy Monday night everyone!

2009-06-14T16:28:00.000-07:00

Ooh the joys of figuring out how to create a website . It's going pretty good actually. I say this now. I haven't tried putting it online yet .

My first book is coming soon from Amira Press. YAH!

Check out this awesome cover . . .

2009-06-11T18:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday Everyone. My first round of edits are in and I've been meaning to pop on here and say YAH!. It was a really cool learning experience. Here's hoping round two is just as nifty. :o)

I took my daughter to Spruce Meadows today. The National tournament is going on now through Sunday. That's horse jumping, by the way. Two thumbs up! Now that's loads of inspiration for a zillion books. 'Course I'm simmering a story with Western riding, not English. Not to fret! The Calgary Stampede is in a month!

I'm working on time management for all the goodies of being a writer. It's good.

2009-05-21T20:35:00.000-07:00

I just played a Fender Stratocaster. My music education is seriously lacking, but I'm told that is a pretty cool guitar. When I say played I really mean picked up and strummed. Felt cool, though.

2009-05-18T06:59:00.000-07:00

I'm back in the eastern woodlands, well, for a couple more days anyway. So many cool landscapes and so many cool settings for even cooler stories. It's good to see Lake Ontario again, and Lake Muskoka. This is living, being outside. Soaking up life.

Claiming Love is flowing through the process. That makes me so happy. Hope you guys love it! I sure loved writing it.

Happy Day after Earth Day!

2009-04-23T09:38:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went hiking in a park called Nose Hill. It is an oasis of prairie in the midst of a sprawling city. It is also a huge park, so you can almost feel like you are out on the rolling prairie and not within city limits. Walkers, runners, dogs, hikers and mountain bikers all enjoy the park. As well as mule deer, coyotes and smaller critters. The sky was huge and wide open. Big Sky country applies to more than Montana. Gorgeous, if you let yourself feel the land and not get hung up on what surrounds it.

May everyone find an oasis if they need it.

Happy Earth Day everyone.

2009-04-14T14:02:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Happy Tuesday! My little girl is napping more. Yesss... actually, hot damn! For all you stay-at-home moms or dads, you know what I'm talking about! The cutie is amazing, as everyone's kid is but I'm stoked to get a bit more work time.

So I thought I was writing about rafting and turns out the story actually wanted to be on horseback instead. Go figure. Works for me, though.

I'm also learning the joys of website development. Ok, so it is still in the preliminary stages, really preliminary stages, but that's cool. It's coming. I've worked on websites for work and for friends, but neat-O, now I'm working on my own. :o) Hmm, now to solicit the help of one of my friends... you know who you are, please help!

Now for a mundane weather update, it is snowing. I know it's April and all, but April showers bring May flowers. I guess Gaia wrote her own memo. Right on Sister!

2009-04-01T16:00:00.001-07:00

So my 9 month old discovered the joy of potted plants. Soil, leaves, all inside! How cool, I know. I suppose the daughter of two archaeologists, what did we think she would do with them!

I've started working on my next book. The story keeps... darting in my mind. I need to sit down and focus for a bit. It's jumping to come out, though.

Here in the shadow of the Rockies, I'm trying to be patient waiting for spring. I love winter, but I am so ready for spring... and then summer. Yup, shorts, sandals, tank tops and warm breezes... aah.

Happy Wednesday everyone.

2009-03-29T17:00:00.000-07:00

Howdy everyone! Alright, a right of passage for every author; first submissions! I'm one step away from taking the plunge. Cool.

So I took our 9 month old hiking in the Rockies. Two thumbs up for those baby/toddler back carriers! My Little One loved it! She loves the mountains as much as we do.

Happy Spring!

2009-03-21T14:29:00.000-07:00

I celebrated the first day of spring yesterday with a trip to Banff. For those of you unfamiliar, Banff is in the Canadian Rockies and only a blink away from Calgary. Ok, so it is a bit longer than a blink. But, it's nice and close and gorgeous. The herd of elk we saw on the way out was wonderful icing on the happy day cake.

Tonight, snow.

Aerials at COP last weekend!!

2009-02-24T12:33:00.001-08:00

Last weekend we went to see the aerials competition at Canada Olympic Park in Calgary. That sport is amazing! I still shake my head when I see how steep the landing hill is. It looks like flying! I pretty much stick to the green runs when I'm skiing but it's cool to watch others with bigger Kaunas fly through the air.

Claiming Love is still patiently waiting for edits. Grandma is here and helping with baby duty (thanks Grandma!!). So time to dive back in!!

Hope everyone is having an awesome day!

New Banner, thanks Tara!!

2009-02-19T18:12:00.001-08:00

2009-02-11T18:12:00.000-08:00

The Edits for Claiming Love are simmering. I'm excited!! Soon, very soon it will be ready to claim it's wings. I know, I know, that's puny!!

I chose a title (psst, Claiming Love). It was cool, the title waited patiently to be ready to come out and then it just flowed.

I love it when life flows.

Now for something completely different, checked out the Koalas visiting from San Diego. Two thumbs up. Another puny!! I'm on a role!!!!!!!!! (Koalas have two thumbs on each hand)
Oh wait, the thumbs up sign in Australia doesn't mean the same thing as it does here... oh crap.

Happy Day everyone!

Soccer and Stories

2009-01-28T14:31:00.001-08:00

Last night I had my first soccer game since I partially tore my ACL a couple years ago. It's a rec league, so not competitive or crazy, just a bunch of friends playing soccer against other friends playing soccer. It's fun, gets me out of the house and tearing around a gym for a while. Ok, I tear it up a little and then rotate out, wondering where all the air in my lungs went to.

I have three new stories simmering in my head. It's good. Keeps me up at night, though, I'm excited to write them. Now, to make the time. I have to make the time. It's good for me.

Happy day everyone!

2009-01-25T13:02:00.000-08:00

Another story idea was banging in my head last night. I couldn't sleep, character dialogs were traipsing through my head. It was good and irritating. Seriously, has there always only been 24 hours in a day?

Happy Weekend!

first draft done!

2009-01-24T21:34:00.000-08:00

Feels good, but almost anti-climactic. I finished the first draft of my first book today. My mind has already been chewing on other story ideas, so maybe that has muffled the joy and coolness of the occasion. I'm just so excited to keep going. Writing is fun. More fun than I imagined, actually. It has been on the back burner, simmering, for years. It feels really good to slip the leash on that part of me.

Now, I just have to think of a title...

2009-01-16T15:10:00.000-08:00

Friday, woo-hoo! It's sunny and warm here with the snow melting like crazy! I love winter but days like this feel good!

Ok, so my leading lady needs attention in the story I'm writing. She's banging in my head, wanting me to fill in her blanks. She's pretty cool and needs her story told. Characters take on a life of their own and let you know when you still have work to do.

I don't mind, feels like a Muse is talking.

Have a good weekend everyone.

2009-01-15T06:22:00.000-08:00

Went cross country skiing with a couple friends last night. Two thumbs up! There is something magical about skiing at night as the snow is falling. We were on top of the river valley and could see the lights of downdown through the snowy haze. It actually was quite beautiful. I usually don't ooh and aah at seeing a bunch of skyscrapers, but it looked pretty cool last night.

I just got the skis for Christmas. I love them! I could actually ski instead of just shuffle along. Ok, there was some shuffling when I started to get tired and needed to suck in a few big gulps of air .

Well, happy Thursday everyone!

2009-01-12T10:16:00.000-08:00

oooh, sooooore! My body is still sore from my bobsledding escapades! Yowsa!

Monday, back to reality. I'm closing in on the first draft. It feels good. Exciting. I keep wanting to add things, though. So, the question is, when are the additions fabulous and when are they blah blah blah- overkill?

I have the same question when I'm painting. Do I stop now because it looks good, do I add more and risk messing up, do I add more and make a good painting great? Who knows. That's the cool part about creative pursuits, reminds us we have choices.

2009-01-10T16:18:00.000-08:00

Exhilarating! The bobsled run was absolutely incredible!! I'm still grinning, hours later!
123 km/hour and 4.5 G forces!!! Tee hee hee!!! Our steer person said it right, TV does NOT do it justice.

Man, that was fun!

2009-01-09T12:36:00.000-08:00

Did I say magic? I meant sometimes it's magic, other times it's really irritating. Tee hee. Patience. It's been on my to-do list for oh, about 15 years.

2009-01-09T11:36:00.000-08:00

Ok, so writing didn't go as planned the last couple days. I'm still trying to work out that writing schedule with my wee one and husband. The little darling (daughter, not husband ) has a serious aversion to nap time.

So bobsledding is still on for tomorrow. It's for our work Christmas party. Another spot just opened so I can go down twice! Does that mean I can pee my pants twice?! My husband is doing the skeleton! Crazy fellow! I love watching it, but laying on my belly, head-first, roaring down an iced shoot w/ only a helmet and elbow pads, sounds, well, more like a spectator sport!

Last year I went to the Aerials competion held in town. A friend of mine used to compete and is now a coach. I watched athletes ski down a hill, hit a jump, do lots of crazy cool acrobatics in the air and then land on this super steep hill. I was preggo at the time and wondered what I was going to do if my kid wanted to take up aerials, or bull riding. I imagine a lot of deep breathing!

Oh yes, back to writing. So I'm working on a story and I love it. It has been really cool the process and the flow. When you can't write as fast as the story is coming to you, it's great! But then BOOM, I hit a block. Literally, I'll be posed over the keyboard and it's like the taps have been turned off. Nothing. Waiting... False start... more waiting... I know the direction I want to go in is keeping quiet for the moment. Elusive... As life would have it, more from circumstance than planning (thank you six month old daughter and messy house), I let the story simmer, incubate. But it's ok because, POOF, in the shower or walking the dog, or other regualr, mundane living sort of experiences the next piece of the story is revealed. Or slams into consciousness. Sometimes that's a better description.

But that kinda makes it magic, ya know?

2009-01-07T15:47:00.000-08:00

Ta-da! Made it to the wonderful world of blogging! (Thank you Tara!)

Ok, so Saturday, as in three very short days away, I'm going to hurtle down a bobsled run. I know I'll be in a bobsled and have pros (I hope... I think...!!) there with me to make the experience, well, real and official and somehow make me feel saver choosing to spend 60 seconds of my life doing this. I'll keep you posted.

As for today, the wild exotic world of grocery shopping and errands with a six month old! Weird how both the mundane and the wowsa can be full of story potential.

As for tonight- WRITING!