Corner Store Jewelry, the review

I'll be the first to admit that I don't wear much jewelry. I had my ears pierced as a tween—against my mother's wishes (her friend talked her into letting me get it done)—and let the holes close up as an adult. So when a friend or family member gives me the gift of jewelry I graciously accept the piece and make an effort to wear it whenever we go out with the gift giver. Otherwise, the jewelry sits in a drawer, collecting dust.

Still, when I received these gorgeous (pictures do not do them justice) rock earrings as a gift, I was very excited.

You see, they brought back memories of the times my mother would drag me to "Rock and Mineral" shows with my grandmother. We'd spend all day walking up and down aisles as my Grams searched out the perfect rocks for her collection. And on the rare occasion she couldn't find what she was looking for indoors, we'd head out to the nearest rocky beach and do a search on the shore.

When the package arrived it came in the cutest brown box. I just love packaging that reminds me of the old west!

Once opened, I could see that it was carefully wrapped in bubble wrap.

I carefully removed the bubble wrap to discover two pairs of handcrafted stone earrings with clips for us "no holers".

Because each stone comes direct from nature, the design on each earring is slightly different, as is the design on each side of the stone.

They clip easily onto one's ears and hang beautifully, don't you think?

If you, too, would like to own one of Eleanor Burian Mohr's original jewelry pieces, I encourage you to head on over to her blog at http://cornerstoregoddessjewelry.blogspot.com where you can read beautiful poetry that is then illustrated with Eleanor's creations, or visit the Corner Store Shop.

Disclosure: The reviewer received this product as a gift.

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

Review © Alyice Edrich, All Rights Reserved. www.alyiceedrich.net
Artwork © Eleanor Burian Mohr, All Rights Reserved. www.cornerstoregoddessjewelry.blogspot.com
Photos of artwork used for review purposes only.


~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

This post was sponsored by The Dabbling Mum.

For more articles geared towards busy parents, check out The Dabbling Mum eMagazine.

Interview with Mark Glamack

Mark Glamack is a director, producer, and writer for the family entertainment industry, specializing in motion pictures and television. He was elected to six terms as a Governor for the Academy of Television and Sciences and has recently written an award-winning, Christian-based, Young Adult , "Littluns: And the Book of Darkness", geared towards the whole family.


When did you start writing?
When I realized that was the only way I could capture what was in my head for a film and television project. Becoming and author is a different story.

About five and a half years ago, I was in the process of funding any one of six projects that I created and developed over several decades. And I had what can only be described as an epiphany. It was an experience of pure love like nothing I had ever experienced before, asking me to write “Littluns".

Now, contrary to popular opinion and perception, not everybody in the entertainment industry is rich… and certainly not me. I would make a living directing a show for a studio and when my work was completed, only then would I have the time to work on my projects. This is something I have been doing all of my professional life, never being able to completely realize my dreams. I keep thinking that our Lord had me going around the mountain until He thought I was ready for "Littluns".

Well, I had written scripts and other writings, but a novel? Not in a million years would I have ever considered writing a novel. Not that I wouldn’t have wanted to do so, but I always thought there were those far better qualified than I to take on such a difficult and demanding journey. Besides, I already had more on my plate than I could possibly handle and just couldn’t take on any more.

After completing the first draft of the first chapter, I quickly threw it away telling myself I can’t do this. I then told my closest friend Stella about my dilemma as she knew me better than anyone else, understanding that I wouldn’t be satisfied with just writing a book.

If I were going to do this, it would have to offer much more. But, could I be more than just another author?

In all her wisdom she said two things to me: Find your own voice; it’s what made all great writers great through their own unique style, and write from your heart.

Well, I shut myself up in a 10 x 11 room working between ten to fourteen hours a day and I would only get out a few hours each week, usually to go grocery shopping for the following week. Except for a few real friends, most people I had known over the years left me for dead.

Now, after five and a half years later, and amongst every unimaginable deterrent, obstacle, negative distraction, and relentless invasion, the novel “Littluns: And the Book of Darkness” was complete.


What was your path towards publication like?
A nightmare with rejection after rejection, and the publishers who wanted to publish “Littluns” proved to be less than what I had hoped for. So, I was forced to self-publish.


Who was "Littluns: And the Book of Darkness" written for?
“Littluns” was written for both Christian and secular readers.


Can you tell us a little bit about your latest book?
My novel, "Littluns: And the Book of Darkness" triggers EVERY emotion. From life and death to truth, peace, love, hope, joy, and the heart's desire; to mystery, terror, and the end times; to friends and family, to extreme good and evil, to our choice in this life for His Light, or that of darkness.

"Littluns: And the Book of Darkness" is a fantasy based in reality and truth.

This may be the first animation-like novel for grown-ups that is also family friendly. And the first novel over 150 pages printed with full color illustrations.

My work in guided to inspire and enlighten readers beyond what is, to what can be and the infinite possibilities beyond.


If you could choose just one thing for your book to accomplish, what would it be?
What it means to be a true Christian under the most challenging of circumstances, and hopefully that it inspires people to read the Bible, and welcome Christ in their lives.

Kevin James Richardson wrote: ' "Littluns" is to Christians what "Harry Potter" was to the secular world - yet "Littluns" is written for both.' I want others to see the book the same way.


What is your best advice for getting past writer's block?
Stop making “Writers Block” excuses. The problem here is a state of mind. Sometimes just walking away and doing something else will get a writer back on track.


What was the best writing-related advice you ever received?
Find your own voice. All great writers became great because they stood out from the crowd. And write from your heart.


What do you feel is the single most detrimental thing a writer could do to destroy his/her career as a writer?
A bad attitude in taking it all for granted will sooner or later destroy any career.


What’s ahead for your writing?
There's talk about a “Littluns” prequel half-hour television special. Also, if sales dictate there could be a sequel or two for "Littluns".

Visit Mark Glamack at http://www.littluns.net or http://www.littlunsblog.com/

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

This post was sponsored by The Dabbling Mum.

For more articles geared towards authors and writers, check out DM's Writing Center.

Interview with Charly Emery

Few people think of business and love together, yet in her new book, "Thank Goodness You Dumped His Ass - Use Those Mr. Wrongs to Lead You Straight to Mr. Right", personal strategist Charly Emery uses the savvy, straightforward approach she's known for, to deliver a simple, clear cut strategy that empowers modern women to create relationship portfolios that pay big dividends in love!


What was your path towards publication like?
The path toward publication was incredibly empowering for me, much like the purpose and content of my book I was publishing. I knew I had something that women all over would love and benefit from, and I had just begun pitching my book to agents when I had the opportunity to have an editor from a major publisher read my manuscript.

She gave me one great note to strengthen my book before telling me to run with it and publish it myself. She told me that she thought my content was solid and I shouldn't wait on major publisher. At first I felt overwhelmed, so I had my moment and then began researching everything I needed to do. Less than four months later I had a physical book in my hands!


What was the first market you queried and why did you choose that market?
I queried a couple of different markets to begin with including how-to, women's issues and relationships, because my book is relevant to all those areas. I wanted to maximize my options by creating more avenues for opportunities.


What is your biggest obstacle when it comes to pitching yourself as a writer and what steps have you taken to overcome that obstacle?
My biggest obstacle as a writer is remembering that I'm more than a writer. I learned a long time ago after healing from a trauma that I needed to filter all I do through myself first.

In other words, it's important not to pitch myself too specifically as a writer, actor or anything else. Instead, I pitch myself as a personality with a vast life experience and the chops to write, speak and teach.

It has greatly increased my opportunities because I decided that rather than focusing on having people see me as one thing, I'd present myself along with my skills so they could come up with ideas I might not have even thought of. For example, I'm now writing my own concepts for TV along with a movie treatment I just finished because of what others saw in me and suggested I do...


Aside from magazine articles and book contracts, how can someone earn money writing?
My life has been an unbelievable path of twists and turns that has taken me further than I could have ever imagined, therefore when it comes to writing and making money, I believe you need to do what you love, get your thoughts, stories and insights out on the web but also be open to using other mediums that will bring people to your written words, such as video summaries of articles or books, guest blogging on other people's websites and establishing yourself —people will come to you with new and unique opportunities and ideas that will make you money.

Why try to come up with every avenue yourself, when sharing yourself will prompt others to come up with ideas you might never think of on your own...?


Can you tell us a little bit about your latest book?
"Thank Goodness You Dumped His Ass" is the first relationship book to take a purely strategic business approach to relationships by delivering a clear-cut, step-by-step formula for how to attract a fabulous and fulfilling relationship. Most importantly, it empowers modern day women to use their independence to own who they are in and out of the dating process so they truly win big in the game of love!

They learn how to poise themselves to attract what they want, while learning how to assess their previous relationships for vital personal information they can use to make crucial corrections to achieve the results they desire. Being called the "bible of relationships" by readers on Amazon, it is truly the ultimate how-to for elevating your love stats —written from an intimate, experiential rather than clinical perspective!



If you could choose just one thing for your book to accomplish, what would it be?
My purpose in writing my book was to give women specific steps they could apply to increase their awareness, accountability and skill so they could attract and enjoy the relationships they crave. I want more women in fulfilling relationships!


How do you balance your life as a writer with your duties as a parent or spouse?
I have many projects and passions I juggle. Sometimes my other responsibilities in life give me ideas to write about, and sometimes they point out where I need to balance myself and my interests better. I plan my days as best I can with my list of priorities in hand, and I challenge myself to look at the deeper message in those responsibilities that arise to be sure I'm enjoying my present life and not just focusing or working toward something in the future —but it is a continuous lesson and challenge.


What do love you most about being a writer?
I love knowing in my spirit, that the words I write are feelings, insights and emotions that touch, teach, guide and lead others to live better lives with greater love and satisfaction.


What is your best advice for getting past writer's block?
Step back. Ask yourself what it is you want to say and who you wish to speak to. You can always tweak how you've said it or add metaphors later, but if you get caught up in how you're writing, you'll often miss the magic of the message —which means the reader will too...!


What was the best writing-related advice you ever received?
Write to one person and don't worry about everyone relating to it because what you write will be so intimate that those who relate will really relate strongly, and those who don't, you don't need to worry about.


What do you feel is the single most detrimental thing a writer could do to destroy his/her career as a writer?
I come from many tough times and personal challenges. I resonate with the Phoenix, therefore the only thing I can imagine doing as a writer to destroy your career, is not writing.


What’s ahead for your writing?
I'm currently working on two concepts for television that I created along with a movie treatment, and I've begun writing the follow up book to Thank Goodness You Dumped His Ass.

You can learn more about Charly Emery at http://www.CharlySense.com And don't forget to check out her interview.

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

This post was sponsored by The Dabbling Mum.

For more articles geared towards authors and writers, check out DM's Writing Center.

Watercolor Portrait Art on Italian Paper, the review

I've never ordered anything from Italy before—and this was only the second item I have ever ordered from outside of the United States—so to say I was a bit nervous was an understatement. I worried that the art wouldn't travel well. I worried what Customs might do once the package got into their hands, and I wondered just how long it would actually take to get into my hands.

Still… when I discovered Vincenzo's art, I knew I just had to own at least one piece.

His art is simple, and bold, and far from the folk artsy stuff I normally find myself gazing upon. And yet, it called to me… buy me… put me in a black frame with a white matte, and hang me in your living room.

I contemplated buying the piece. I put it in my shopping cart, then I pulled it back out and browsed around some more, then I put it back in my shopping cart. I kept telling myself that it wouldn't match my décor, but then I realized that my décor is changing because I am changing and I could see an entire wall filled with black and white frames and original art pieces. So I did what any new art junkie would do, I bought it!

Then I waited…

I purchased the piece on May 9, 2011 and it arrived on May 17, 2011. Pretty quick if you ask me!

After carefully opening the manila envelope, I discovered another package securely wrapped in white tissue paper.

The back was glued down for extra security, which made me a little nervous. I feared I'd cut right through the tissue paper and ruin my painting.

But I had nothing to fear!

Vincenzo had wrapped my painting in tissue paper then placed it inside two pieces of sturdy cardboard.

Once I removed the tissue paper, I was in for a real treat! The art I purchased was indeed simple, but it was also stunning and beautiful and such a welcome treat!

Here's a close-up of the paper.

It's a page from an old, 1900 Italian dictionary. Which as you know means it's not archival… but I'm sure it'll hold up through my lifespan, at least. And at just $9 US, plus shipping, how could I pass it up?

If you, too, would like to own a piece of Vincenzo Rizzo's original art, I encourage you to head on over to visit the Vincenzo Rizzo Art Shop. His art pieces range from $9 to $200 per piece, depending upon complexity and archival quality.

Disclosure: The reviewer purchased this product to review.

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

Review © Alyice Edrich, All Rights Reserved. www.alyiceedrich.net
Artwork © Vincenzo Rizzo, All Rights Reserved. www.etsy.com/people/vincenzorizzo
Photos of artwork used for review purposes only.


~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

This post was sponsored by The Dabbling Mum.

For more articles geared towards busy parents, check out The Dabbling Mum eMagazine.

Artist Interview with Nathan Ernst

Nathan Ernst spends his days emerged in literature and his nights creating stunning works of art. As a child, he enjoyed watching this father create doodles and maps…just for him. As a teenager, he was inspired by his art teacher and began creating his own comic book characters. As an adult, life took hold and art was put on the backburner. Then one day everything changed and art once again found its place in his life. Inspired by another artist, he took the plunge to create affordable art pieces for the average, hardworking American.

Read the full interview at The Dabbling Mum.

Interview with Jane Bernard

Jane Bernard has been a writer for 25 years, starting as a technical writer for educational think-tanks, educational television, ghost writing speeches, re-writing books, screenplays, and proposals, as well as publishing creative writing. She has also been an adjunct writing professor at several universities. Today she discusses her latest book, "Am I Really Hungry?", (coming out later this year) and addresses some key points to help writers succeed in their writing careers.


What was your path towards publication like?
Magazine publication was spontaneous. However, once I started writing books, I joined the club of those writers who paper their walls with rejection slips.

My first book, "Fine Tuning, Connecting with Your Inner Power" was written for myself. I felt that there was no passion in my life and I started writing to try to find it. On the way I discovered my intuition. I also discovered that my trip was to a universal destination... everyone needs to feel connected to their passion; hence the book. And since I wrote from the heart, it was immediately picked up and followed by an appearance on The Montel Show where I talked about intuition.


What was the first market you queried and why did you choose that market?
My first query was a response to a writing contest and it turned out that one of the judges was from Writer's Digest and he bought my essay.


What is your biggest obstacle when it comes to pitching yourself as a writer and what steps have you taken to overcome that obstacle?
The biggest obstacle is to be succinct and be able to pitch a whole book in one sentence. I keep trying until I get it right. Refining and distilling a book into a one line pitch is a powerful exercise for compelling communication.


Can you tell us a little bit about your latest book?
My latest book, "Am I Really Hungry?: 6th Sense Diet:Intuitive Eating", was written based on interviews with dieters and intuitive eaters. It reveals how to eat what you what when you want it and be your healthy weight by sharing intuitive tools that work! It addresses diet and eating hot buttons and gives practical help. Right now people are using it for losing weight successfully.


How does your intuition figure into writing?
Intuition is a flow and so is writing. When I connect with my intuition I really feel in sync with myself. It lets me trust myself. As a writer that trust translates into an open mind and open heart. When you use your intuitive tools there is no writer's block. Intuition is a door-opener.


If you could choose just one thing for your book to accomplish, what would it be?
I would like it to help people connect with their intuition, feel excited about Life and good about themselves.


How do you balance your life as a writer with your duties as a parent or spouse?
It's challenging. I am a driven writer. When my kids were young I wrote while they slept and often got up pre-dawn to have a few quiet hours. Writing is a passion that gets balanced by real-time responsibilities. Where there's a will there's a way.

Tips:

Always carry a small notebook to jot down ideas or notes. Then when you have a few moments you will be ready to 'go'.

Set goals for yourself. For example: today I will write 1 page or today I will re-read and edit the first section. Just like all writing has a beginning, a middle, and end, the work process needs that too.


What was the best writing-related advice you ever received?
Write from the heart. When you write from the heart everything is easier. Plus, your heart energy, a.k.a your passion, comes through your words and this engages the reader.


What do you feel is the single most detrimental thing a writer could do to destroy his/her career as a writer?
The single most-detrimental thing a writer could do would be not to be responsible or reliable.

For example: You are asked to write a 500 word paper but hand in 750 words. Or, you hand in 500 words full of typos, inaccuracies, or formatting no-nos. I think what is really important for writers who want to be published is to realize they are part of a team. There are several people who have to do their jobs between the writer and her readers.


What’s ahead for your writing?
I am re-writing a book about re-writing right now. (not a joke but please laugh anyway!) All good writing is a process of re-writing. My approach is based on my Zen practice of 30 years plus my experience as a writer and writing professor. Knock Your Block Off is a taste of what is coming in the new book. I write to educate and enable people to succeed.


You can learn more about Jane Bernard at http://www.IntuEating.com or http://www.finetuningbook.com/

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

This post was sponsored by The Dabbling Mum.

For more articles geared towards authors and writers, check out DM's Writing Center.

Gnomeo and Juliet, the review

Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” is given a bright and cheery twist in this live-action animation about two garden gnomes who fall in love despite the feuding between their two clans.

When I saw the commercial for the film, "Gnomeo and Juliet", I thought it would be more along the lines of “Shrek meets Toy Story”. I was expecting a lot of witty comedic antics mixed in with child-appropriate action sequences. But what we got was something far from these two classics.
That’s not to say that it’s a bad thing, just not something I was expecting.

Gnomeo lives with the blue hat gnomes. Juliet lives with the red hat gnomes. Both live side-by-side in an English suburb where lawns are meticulously kept and lawn mowers and hedge trimmers are coveted.

One day, during a mission to spy upon each other’s lawns, Gnomeo and Juliet meet and it is love at first sight. Upon realizing that they are on opposite sides, they agree to meet secretly to confess their love and build their relationship.

During their courtship, Gnomeo ends up in a race with Tybalt, from Juliet’s clan. Determined to win at any cost, Tybalt ruins Gnomeo’s lawnmower and walks away the “winner”. Gnomeo’s clan, upset over the win, orders a very powerful lawnmower that plays havoc on both sides and has everyone believing that Gnomeo is dead…only unlike Shakespeare’s original story, Gnomeo is resurrected and the couple are re-united.

Die-hard fans of Shakespeare aren’t going to be happy with this rendition of the beloved play; especially with Romeo’s resurrection. I, however, was glad to see such a dark tale retold in a light and cheery way… especially since it was written and created with children in mind.




Truth-be-told, I have mixed feelings about this film.

On the one hand, I loved the animation and the premise of the film. I even enjoyed the characters, and found the gnomes to be such a unique and fun twist!

But…I felt the storyline was lacking and I really HATED the fact that Elton John’s songs were the main focus of the film.

That, of course, comes from an adult’s perspective.




I invited a few kids to watch the film with me and they loved it just the way it was… they thought it was witty and entertaining and felt the songs were fine since they accompanied action sequences.

And that, I believe is key…

If you have young children at home, "Gnomeo and Juliet" just may be the welcome bedtime treat you’ve been waiting for. You can order it on Amazon for just $19.99.





Bonus features include: alternate endings, deleted scenes, a featurette on Elton John and the impact his music plays on the film, a music video, and a behind-the-scenes look at Ashley giving voice to the frog.




~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

This post was sponsored by The Dabbling Mum.

For more articles geared towards busy parents, check out The Dabbling Mum eMagazine.

Interview with Sheila Lowe

Like her character Claudia Rose in the award-winning Forensic Handwriting Mysteries series, Sheila Lowe is a real-life handwriting expert who testifies in handwriting-related court cases. With more than forty years experience in the field of handwriting analysis, she’s a frequent guest in the media. Sheila holds a Master of Science degree in psychology and is the author of the internationally acclaimed "The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Handwriting Analysis", "Handwriting of the Famous & Infamous", and Sheila Lowe’s Handwriting Analyzer software.


What was your path towards publication like?
Long and tortuous! Non-fiction was a very different experience from fiction, which was much harder. I sold my first non-fiction book ("The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Handwriting Analysis") from a proposal and without an agent. A year later a publisher asked me to write my second non-fiction book ("Handwriting of the Famous & Infamous"). Around the same time I started writing my first fiction work, "Poison Pen", which even won in a competition, but it was seven years before that book got sold to a small press called "Capital Crime" and came into print.

The book got a starred review in Publisher’s Weekly, which brought it to the attention of a senior editor at "Penguin". That resulted in a four-book deal. They re-published "Poison Pen", quickly followed by "Written in Blood". The next year "Dead Write" came out, and the year after, "Last Writes".


What was the first market you queried and why did you choose that market?
After attending Book Expo in 1998 I heard about a publisher who was looking for a book about handwriting analysis. I contacted them and offered a proposal. They agreed to read it and subsequently bought it. I wasn’t thrilled to have the “Complete Idiot’s Guide” as a title, but nobody else was offering to let me fill 356 pages with whatever I wanted.

As it happens, they were so happy with my manuscript, they had me write another 100 pages. Several years later, after the series was sold to another publisher, the new publisher decided to have me cut 100 pages (!). It’s still selling very well around the world.


What is your biggest obstacle when it comes to pitching yourself as a writer and what steps have you taken to overcome that obstacle?
Today, I think any author’s biggest obstacle is that publishing today is a hugely crowded field, so it’s really hard to get traditionally published. Also, it’s a changing field, with e-books replacing print books, which also makes it easier to get published in other venues. I’m still figuring that one out.


Can you tell us a little bit about your latest book?
My most recent book was "Last Writes", the fourth in my Forensic Handwriting Mystery series, which was published last summer.

It answers the question, "What does an old stuffed bunny have to do with a religious cult and a missing three-year-old?"

Erin Powers is a member of a religious sect, living in an isolated compound called the Ark. Now her husband and young child have disappeared, leaving behind a cryptic note with a terrifying message. In desperation, Erin seeks help from forensic handwriting expert Claudia Rose, who seizes on an unexpected opportunity to use her special skills and become one of the few outsiders ever to be invited inside the cult compound. With time fast running out, Claudia must uncover the truth about Erin's missing child before the prophecy of a secret ancient parchment can be fulfilled and a child’s life is written off for good.


If you could choose just one thing for your book to accomplish, what would it be?
Get me a lot of new readers so there can be many more books in the series!


How do you balance your life as a writer with your duties as a parent or spouse?
My kids are all grown and gone (and so is my husband!). I can’t say I’m balanced, but I do whatever work comes in from my consulting practice as a handwriting analyst, then I do my writing late at night. My biggest lack of balance is spending far too much time on email. I haven’t yet disciplined myself on that front.


What is your best advice for getting past writer's block?
Put the work away and do something completely different. I play Bookworm or go read somebody else’s book or go to lunch with friends. Don’t try to force the writing. On the other hand…there are some times when, if I can force myself just to write something (even if it’s just crap), it sometimes breaks the block and the next day I can rewrite it and move forward.


What was the best writing-related advice you ever received?
Don’t expect your publisher to do much (if any) marketing on your behalf, even if they’re a major publishing house. They don’t do that anymore, but they expect you to do it. If you are receiving any kind of an advance, they’ll expect you to roll that back into marketing, which may include a website, attending conventions in your genre, produce bookmarks to hand out, etc., etc.


What do you feel is the single most detrimental thing a writer could do to destroy his/her career as a writer?
Badmouth your readers publicly when they criticize you on Amazon or other sites. Word gets around very quickly on the Internet and even big name authors who have struck back at readers who wrote really nasty critiques (which some people seem to feel is okay) have learned this to their detriment.


What’s ahead for your writing?
I’m 2/3 of the way finished with my new book, which is a standalone thriller. Even though it’s not part of my series, some of my series characters appear in it. I now have a fabulous agent and hope they’ll be able to sell this book for me. I’d also like to go back to writing my series and see it published in foreign markets. And I’m working on a book about personal relationships and handwriting.

Visit Sheila Lowe at http://sheilalowe.com or http://www.claudiaroseseries.com

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

This post was sponsored by The Dabbling Mum.

For more articles geared towards authors and writers, check out DM's Writing Center.

Find DM Speaks at 365 Blog

Last March (2011), I realized that if I wanted to get my passion for writing back, I needed to be inspired.

It wasn't enough to simply post a few reviews on a blog, or join in group discussions in forums, or even write queries for possible paid writing gigs. I needed to feel the passion others felt for their writing.

And I figured that if I needed that, there were probably other writers who did too. After all, so many have shared with me that they were in the same boat when it came to their writing...

To learn more about how I did it, check out my interview on the 365: Make Something Blog here:
http://makesomething365.blogspot.com/2011/05/dabbling-mum-speaks.html

Interview with Gerald Fierst

Gerald Fierst has officiated at wedding celebrations, and performed as a storyteller, throughout the United States. He is author of "The Heart of the Wedding", a discussion of wedding ceremonies, marriage, and love in 21st Century America.


What was your path towards publication like?
At one point, I stood in the library and looked at the stacks and thought, “All these people have written books, and some of them have done it more than once.”

It took five years from the first sample chapters to the final release of my book. I kept on looking at my author’s picture and thinking, “Do I still look like that?”

I began thinking I would write a stylebook about flowers and food. Some agents expressed an interest but no one bought. Often, I would receive personal, handwritten note, all turning me down and wishing me luck. Then, an acquaintance who had been a publisher and sold the business asked me to do a favor and drive him to Pennsylvania to pick up a new car he had bought.

On the trip he started to tell me about his new press.

“Want a book?” I asked.

“Sure, send me a proposal and I will show it to my editor.”

So I did.

At first they, too, were going to pass. “This proposal seems more like your second book. We’d prefer you to write something about issues.”

Then they called back to say a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. But by that time I had rethought my proposal and wanted to send the new pitch. They thought this new conceptualization was great and we had a deal. Then I had to write it. Every step was a lesson. You learn how to write a book by writing one. I had written plays and stories but a book needs an arch and a scope that makes you rethink one’s habits.


What was the first market you queried and why did you choose that market?
First market was the agents I found in directories. I figured they would help me get the widest possible range of publishers. In fact, they either passed or thought the book was too slight. Part of my problem was I didn’t know how to pitch what I really could do best. Finally, because a publisher knew me and dialogued, I ended up with a much stronger concept and final book.


What is your biggest obstacle when it comes to pitching yourself as a writer and what steps have you taken to overcome that obstacle?
Pitching is very hard. I like complication. Pitching has to be simple. I try to be unique. Pitching calls for branding and identifying markets. I have learned more about the simple and direct style needed to pitch but I am still learning. You really need a mentor to show you.


Can you tell us a little bit about your latest book?
My latest book, "The Heart of the Wedding", has a lot of practical advice about planning a wedding ceremony, but instead of trying to sell product, as so many books and web sites do, I try to sell an idea.

The words we say are more important than the wine, food or flowers. I give historical context as well as real stories of lovers and their weddings. I discuss the whole concept of marriage in the 21st Century and speak to the debate on marriage in a secular society. Including same-sex weddings, recommitment ceremonies, and partnerships.

"The Heart of the Wedding" is non-fiction. Many of the stories I have published are adaptations of folklore. The Heart of the Wedding uses traditional tales to reveal the transformational power of ceremony and uses folktales to frame the true-life stories that parallel the symbolic traditional material stories.

If you could choose just one thing for your book to accomplish, what would it be?
I would like to change the way people marry in the United States so that the first thing they do after they decide to marry is to speak to a civil celebrant about what kind of ceremony they want and then have the celebration reflect the ceremony.


How do you balance your life as a writer with your duties as a parent or spouse?
I find it hard to work at home and found that I had to go to the library, coffee shop, or the local Christian Science Reading Room (they were great in giving me a quiet comfortable place without any pressure to as to why I was there). When working at home, your family always feels you are available. Phones ring as folks know where you are. You have to stop listening to who is calling and say from this time to that time I am working.


What is your best advice for getting past writer's block?
Set the timer. Sit and write whatever you can that day in that many hours. Two or three hours was often all I could do, but I wouldn’t do anything else but write and if I got a page finished, I was a page closer to my goal.


What was the best writing-related advice you ever received?
The best writing advice I received was to make yourself write every day. Get up, go to work, and do as much as you can. I also enjoyed the person who told me that everyone should do three things in life, Raise a child, Plant a Tree, and Write a Book. And the person who told me “Do one thing every day and soon people will start to respond.”


What do you feel is the single most detrimental thing a writer could do to destroy his/her career as a writer?
Don’t assume that people don’t want to hear from you. Reach out to everyone big and small. Everyone is looking for ideas and everyone who is good appreciates the struggle. When you stop reaching out, you began to atrophy until you just give up. Having a community energizes; No one accomplishes anything if you don’t put yourself out there to be heard.


What’s ahead for your writing?
Right now I hope to increase my work with clients writing their ceremonies, but also begin to find new ways to reach out. I still combine theater and writing in my career and will be interested in seeing if some of my true love stories might lead to a fictionalized script.


Gerald Fierst can be reached at http://www.geraldfierst.com/

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

This post was sponsored by The Dabbling Mum.

For more articles geared towards authors and writers, check out DM's Writing Center.

Artist Interview with Marisa Peterson

Marisa Peterson, of Colorscapes, started creating art the minute she could hold a paintbrush (or pencil) in her hand, then in high school, she began studying art. As life progressed, her skills as an artist also grew. Today, she creates beautiful abstract art that encompasses an array of color, patterns, and textures.

Read the full interview on The Dabbling Mum.

Interview with Kevin Benton

Kevin Benton is an inspirational speaker determined to share the message of hope, healing, and hell with all who will listen. His latest book, "A Field Trip To Hell", takes the reader into the depths of Hell, exposing them to its 30 revealed torments, while sharing Biblical accounts of Hell in a non-threatening, yet entertaining way.

What was your path towards publication like?
My path towards publication was one of just believing in my manuscript or soon to be book and soliciting it to publishers for publishing consideration. Out of the three publishers that I sent my manuscript to, all three expressed an interest in publishing my book. I felt in my heart that Liberty University Press was the publisher for me because they provided the much needed personal touch that I desired.

In this business, sometimes your relationship with your publishers can very be impersonal and distant but because I really valued whose hands I placed my manuscript in, Liberty University Press was the unanimous decision. It also helped that Liberty University Press is my Alma matter and I already had a relationship with the people and the school.


Can you tell us a little bit about your latest book?
My recent book is called "A Field Trip to Hell". It is a Christian-fiction book that is, despite the title, very encouraging, inspirational, and informative.

It is a versatile book with various characteristics to it. Some have even described it as being two books in one. It is autobiographical, doctrine, and theology. It is also Christian-fiction and evangelistic in nature.

I begin by telling my personal story of experiencing pain and suffering, or what we sometimes classify as going through "hell". In this portion I describe many of the insurmountable odds that I had to overcome to go from the worst basketball player in the playgrounds all the way to the professional basketball ranks.

One of the trials I had to overcome was being sick to the point of death and the doctors giving me one day to live and the miraculous event that caused me to walk out of the hospital in three days. Afterwards I transition into answering some questions about the ultimate place of pain and suffering…Hell.

In this part of the book, I answer some of the most widely asked questions about Hell. Next, I take my readers on an actual descriptive field trip, or tour, of Hell and expose them to the 30 revealed torments of hell firsthand. I even explain why there are 30.

Next I encourage readers to understand that God loves them, which is the true focal point in life.


What is your biggest obstacle when it comes to pitching yourself as a writer and what steps have you taken to overcome that obstacle?
The biggest obstacle when it comes to pitching myself as a writer is the topic of my book itself. Hell is an avoided and shunned topic and many people will not even venture to find out what the book has to offer simply due to the book's topic.

I overcame this obstacle by using an elegant looking picture of myself that says “author” and not "devil worshipper". Sometimes people perceive me the wrong way because of the topic of my book so my picture sends a message that I’m just a humble and down to earth guy who wrote a book on the topic of hell.

To add to this, when I send a pitch about my book, I convey the total message of the book which is surprisingly encouraging, inspirational, and informative.

Lastly, I let them know that I make a transition to what is deemed the ultimate place of pain and suffering by taking readers on a field trip there, expose them to the 30 revealed torments of Hell firsthand without them having to stay for eternity. After that, they go back home for a lack of a better statement.

This makes the topic more appealing, less dreaded…as people wonder, "What are the 30 torments of Hell and why 30?" All of which are answered by reading my book.


How do you balance your life as a writer with your duties as a parent or spouse?
Balance is not only the key but a must because giving birth to a book is almost like having a child, so-to-speak. The hard work begins after publishing the book because it is 90% marketing… which is an ever-turning and sometimes tiresome wheel.

What works well for me, and my family, is my work schedule. I am a Child Care/Social Worker who works the midnight to eight in the morning shift. When I come home from work my wife is heading to work. When she comes home I’m pretty much done with my work for that day and we are able to spend our quality family time together. Still…Sometimes during the more busy times, you just have to put your work down and for the sake of keeping your priorities in order to make sure that your family comes first.


What is your best advice for getting past writer's block?
When experiencing writer's block, take a break and go do something that you find relaxing, enjoyable, and fun and then return to your writing with a handy thesaurus next to you to help you through it. If you can find antonyms and synonyms to words that you may want to use, you will eventually find the word that you need or want. In the more severe cases of writers block, you may want to take a day or two hiatus from writing and come back refreshed.


What was the best writing-related advice you ever received?
When writing, use the technique called "Show and tell". You want to not only just tell what is happening, but describe what is happening. This keeps readers engaged and makes for captivating books… books that once you start reading them, you just can’t seem to put them down.

There is a plethora of writing-related advice that I have received but his technique has helped me tremendously. It is so rewarding to hear people say, in reference to my book, “Once I started reading your book, I can’t seem to put it down.”


What do you feel is the single most detrimental thing a writer could do to destroy his/her career as a writer?
In my humble opinion, plagiarism is a detrimental and very quick way to destroy your career. To me, this is the unpardonable sin for all writers. You lose credibility but most of all respect as a writer and as a person. If this label is attached to a writer, it will most likely follow you for the rest of your writing career and it will be very hard to shake.


What’s ahead for your writing?
To be honest, I’m not sure but I do have some other field trips that I would like to take my readers on. I have an idea about some other concepts but I really have not decided. That the one thing that I like about fictional books is that you can take your readers anywhere you want and it accepted.

Visit Kevin Benton at http://www.kevinbentonministries.com/

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

This post was sponsored by The Dabbling Mum.

For more articles geared towards authors and writers, check out DM's Writing Center.

Teas Tea, the review

Are you making plans for summer barbecues and want a delicious, cool, and refreshing drink without a lot of calories? Then you've got to try Teas' Tea. I got a chance to review a batch this past week and I was really impressed!

Normally, I'm a create your own iced tea at home kind-of-gal and I usually go for simple green tea or the occasional Earl Grey, Constant Comet, or Orange and Spice. I NEVER ever vary. And it's always light tea, one small tea bag to a 32 ounce pitcher of water and never, ever any sugar or honey.

My husband, on the hand prefers flavored teas and the more flavor the better. My son, he's a Sweet Tea drinker all the way. And my daughter, she avoids tea like the plague.

So when I got an email from Teas' Tea offering me the opportunity to review their teas, I jumped at the chance. I knew we'd be out and about this summer and a pitcher of tea just wasn't going to cut it—and sadly, my favorite bottled tea is no longer sold here in South Dakota.

They have several flavors of unsweetened tea to choose from: Pure Green Tea, Jasmine Green Tea, Lemongrass Green Tea, Rose Green Tea, Mint Green Tea, and Golden Oolong Green Tea. These are also no calorie teas.

Then they have classic teas: Country Peach Black Tea and Crispy Apple Black Tea which are just 70 calories each.

And finally a lightly sweetened variety of teas: Mango Oolong Tea, Blueberry Green Tea, and Lemon Black Tea which are just 40 calories each.

Each tea comes in a non-leaching, recyclable, PETE 1, BPA free bottle--which I VERY MUCH appreciate since my daughter is very big on recycling plastics and bottles these days.

Having said all that, I must confess, I am a bit confused on how they get the flavor for each tea as blueberries aren't listed as an ingredient, therefore I can only assume that it's the ascorbic acid making the flavor…which isn't necessarily a bad thing, just a bit confusing for a gal who is finally taking the time to actually read labels as I gear myself up for eating more whole foods.

As I taste-tested the bottles of teas that arrived on my door, I was happy to discover that each tea smells and tastes just like the label describes.

The Rose Green Tea, took me back to a time when my Aunt Sue used to make her own rose water and her own dried flowers scented in rose oil.

But it was the Country Peach Black Tea that really surprised me! It was DELICIOUS! It was sweet, but not heavily sweet. It was like drinking ripe, juicy, sweet peaches with a hint of tea. Definitely something I'd like to buy more of. And the irony of this statement, if you knew me, would be that I am NOT a big peach fan.

You can learn more about these teas at TeasTea.com


~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

This post was sponsored by The Dabbling Mum.

For more articles geared towards busy parents, check out The Dabbling Mum eMagazine.

Interview with Shirley Enebrad

Shirley Enebrad, author of "Over the Rainbow Bridge", is an award-winning television producer and advocate for children with cancer. She has spent more than 25 years advocating for children with cancer and working with grieving children and their parents. Today she serves families dealing with pediatric cancer issues through the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Washington.


What was your path towards publication like?
Intuitively I have always known that I would write a book someday. When I was blessed with a brilliant little boy who was doing everything in fast-forward, I knew that a childhood premonition that I had about having a sick child who would eventually die and together we would teach people not to fear death was coming true.

So, because of this premonition about that part of my life’s mission I had kept a shoebox filled with little scraps of paper with funny things my son said or notes about experiences we shared knowing that these stories would become the book I had to write.

When I felt that the time had come I spent six months every evening after dinner and weekends putting my words on the computer. After waiting eleven years for the ending to happen I completed the book and researched publishing options. A good friend of mine encouraged me to work with an ala carte publishing group to retain complete control and integrity of my son’s story.


What was the first market you queried and why did you choose that market?
Inspired by previous authors I tried Hay House but they told me it was too spiritually out there. I heard this even from the people who publish Sylvia Browne so that was a conundrum for me!


What is your biggest obstacle when it comes to pitching yourself as a writer and what steps have you taken to overcome that obstacle?
The biggest obstacle I have experienced is finding trustworthy marketers for my book. I have been let down twice and it was expensive and discouraging. So, I sought coaching from a wonderful man who is a successful author and public speaker and have been doing a lot on my own marketing plus working on a format for public speaking.


Can you tell us a little bit about your latest book?
My book, "Over the Rainbow Bridge", tells the story of one child’s life (my son’s) experiences from birth to death and how his courage inspired so many; including Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross famed researcher and author of "On Death and Dying", his friends David Hasselhoff (the actor) and Chip Hanauer (the famed hydroplane driver).

Through Kubler-Ross and now my book, my son has taught thousands of people of all ages not to fear death.


If you could choose just one thing for your book to accomplish, what would it be?
My purpose in writing "Over the Rainbow Bridge" was to fulfill my promise to my son Cory because our joint goal was to teach people not to fear death so that we could all live as fully as possible no matter how much time we are given. And, Cory was so wise and wonderful I wanted to share his knowledge with the world in addition to keeping his memory alive.


What does your book give to readers?
Everyone experiences the death of a loved one. My son’s wisdom and courage gives people hope and comfort. His wisdom was touted worldwide via his friend Elisabeth Kubler-Ross as she conducted her grief workshops, sold-out speeches and through her latest books where she always made sure to include stories about her friend Cory. Kubler-Ross has passed on but she helped ensure that Cory’s legacy would live on.


How do you balance your life as a writer with your duties as a parent or spouse?
I am self-employed so I really have to fight to stay focused and use my time wisely. So many family or home requirements come up during the day that staying focused is the biggest challenge. I schedule my writing time on my daily calendar and I also get up early to write before everyone else is up needing my attention.


What is your best advice for getting past writer's block?
If you aren’t feeling it…go do something pleasurable just for you. Take time off and don’t stress…stressing makes it worse. Go to a movie…go for a walk or go have tea with a friend. Then, go back to your desk and write anything that comes into your mind for five to ten minutes….even emails get me going…then, try to get refocused.


What was the best writing-related advice you ever received?
I was reminded that Jack London (my family’s only famous ancestor) scheduled a certain amount of time to write every day, so even if you don’t feel like writing do it anyway and your thoughts will flow. It is like “priming the pump.” Writing a Blog really works well for this purpose.


What do you feel is the single most detrimental thing a writer could do to destroy his/her career as a writer?
I have seen a number of people let their egos get in their way. You cannot form the relationships necessary to connect with the people you meet if you get a swelled head and become difficult to engage in conversation.

No one wants to read your book if you are not a real warm human being. I witnessed a man who wrote a first novel and self-published it…admitted that he did not spend a dime on marketing because he didn’t think it was necessary…throw the most embarrassing crybaby fit ever in the middle of very large popular bookstore because he felt that his book should have been prominently displayed during a group signing.

First of all, his entitled attitude did not inspire anyone there to want to read nor purchase his book. And it certainly didn’t create a good rapport with the people who worked in the bookstore. Yikes.


What’s ahead for your writing?
I am writing a book about a young woman who was falsely accused, charged and convicted for a crime she didn’t commit. She was sentenced to “life with the possibility of parole” at age 18 and I championed her case via investigative news stories, which lead eventually to her release. By the time she was released with clemency she had served 20 years.

Shirley Enebrad can be reached at http://www.overtherainbowbridge.info/ or http://overtherainbowbridgemyson.blogspot.com/

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

This post was sponsored by The Dabbling Mum.

For more articles geared towards authors and writers, check out DM's Writing Center.