So things have been rough around Chez Quinn recently. The Man spent seven hours in the E.R. yesterday, but we confirmed that the pain in his left arm is not heart related. It's muscle related. Which is a big relief. But I really could use some better Juju around this place. I'm feeling a little like this Muddy Waters song.
Until next time, Citizens. Gotta say though, that my super villainy plans are sounding more and more reasonable.
Showing posts with label sea monkeys. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sea monkeys. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Saturday, April 18, 2015
Surviving The Strain On The Crazy Train
So, I'm drowning in my annual kid science days. I only got eight parent volunteers this year as opposed to 21 and 25 the two previous years. I have a new principal who doesn't know what he's doing and apparently lacks the ability to answer emails.
The first of the two days is this Friday, and I've done virtually everything myself. It's been a nightmare of epic proportions. So directly after I take 140 first and second graders tromping through the woods from science station to science station with seven teachers and eight parent volunteers, I'll be retreating to the hermetically sealed environs of My Happy Place.
Until it's time to do it again with 200 third, fourth and fifth graders next month.
Speaking of elementary schoolers. Why in the world didn't they offer a program like this when I was a kid? This ROCKS!!
They also perform Led Zepplin, Jimi Hendrix and James Brown. Among others.
If I survive, I will see you all next time, Citizens. Though I may be forced back into super villainy. Only time will tell.
The first of the two days is this Friday, and I've done virtually everything myself. It's been a nightmare of epic proportions. So directly after I take 140 first and second graders tromping through the woods from science station to science station with seven teachers and eight parent volunteers, I'll be retreating to the hermetically sealed environs of My Happy Place.
Until it's time to do it again with 200 third, fourth and fifth graders next month.
Speaking of elementary schoolers. Why in the world didn't they offer a program like this when I was a kid? This ROCKS!!
They also perform Led Zepplin, Jimi Hendrix and James Brown. Among others.
If I survive, I will see you all next time, Citizens. Though I may be forced back into super villainy. Only time will tell.
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Loni Townsend's Sea Monkey Interview
Loni Townsend
Wife. Mother. Writer. Ninja. Squirrel.
By day, she writes code. By predawn darkness, she writes fantasies. All other times, she writes in her head.
People call her peculiar with a twisted sense of fashion, but don't let those understatements fool you. Her behavior is perfectly normal for a squirrel disguised as a human. That's part of being a ninja—blending in.
She makes her home in Idaho with her sadistically clever—yet often thwarted—husband, two frighteningly brilliant children, and three sneaky little shibas.
Find her on her blog or social media.
Contact info:
Blog — http://www.lonitownsend.com
Facebook — http://www.facebook.com/squirreltalk
Twitter — https://www.twitter.com/LoniTownsend
Google+ — http://www.google.com/+LoniTownsend
Goodreads — https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7390512.Loni_Townsend
A.Q. - Thanks for agreeing to answer some interview questions about yourself and your new book.
Thank you for having me on your blog! I must say, the first time I came across your blog was when Melissa Maygrove linked to the boxing squirrels for the A-Z challenge. I couldn’t resist. I mean, squirrels! How could anyone resist them?
A.Q. -Exactly! So, What is your book about?
I always seize up when it comes to this question. It’s about a girl… Oh, wait, you mean I can just show you what’s on the back of the book? Well if that’s all it takes…
It’s her first day on a new world and Cera’s already found trouble. Michael, her guardian, has been bitten by a zombie and will soon join the undead ranks.
Everyone tells her there’s no cure, but Cera isn’t one to be deterred. She’s willing to face off with zombie hordes, demon slavers, and black market informants if it means she’ll find a cure for Michael. But she’s not the only one hunting for something.
Something is hunting her.
A.Q. - That sounds awesome. Can you share an interesting behind the scenes tidbit about your story?
I have a cannibalistic pygmy in my story! Okay, so that’s not really behind the scenes. But Fues (my pygmy) wasn’t a pygmy when I first conceived him. He was just a tribal huntsman. And he wasn’t a cannibal either. He became a pygmy after I walked up to my husband with the statement, “hey, I need help with an idea,” and my husband (not knowing at all what I was referring to) blurted, “add a cannibalistic pygmy.” It didn’t solve the problem I was working on at the time, but Fues morphed in that moment from just a tribal guy to a pygmy.
A.Q. - Lol! What is your favorite part of the story writing process?
My favorite part is staring off into space and watching the scene play out in my head. I occasionally mumble lines along with my characters. Usually my husband asks, “You’re thinking about your book, aren’t you?”
A.Q. - Writing can be such an isolated enterprise. Yet, I’m sure there are people who have helped, guided or inspired you along the way to becoming a published author. Could you tell us about one of them and how they helped you?
Inspired, yes. My husband is one of my inspirations. He’ll shout out ideas, meaning them completely in jest, and I’ll use them. Like Fues, mentioned above. He also said, “hey, wouldn’t it be cool if a zombie was haunted by its own ghost?” And thus, This World Bites was born.
A.Q. - Fantastic. What are you working on now/next?
I have two main projects and then a third I want to finish before the year is out. First and foremost on my mind is Isto, book 2 of the ninier series. I have a ton written for this book, but I keep tripping up on flow and timeline. So things keep changing. The second main project is a novella called Lust. It’s part of a collection I’m working on with six other authors. We’re each taking one of the deadly sins. The last project is Murder Most Fowl, the next Cera Chronicle. I wrote super quick installments for the A-Z challenge, but I want to fill it out, clean it up, and actually turn it into a good novella.
Now for the S.A.T. portion of the interview:
Fill in the blank –
If I were a villain, I would have _mechanical squirrels_ for minions to deliver my wrath because _we’re all a little nuts_______. (And remember, sea monkeys are already spoken for. Mostly)
Sea Monkeys are to __Squirrels____ as zombie stinkbugs are to __sharks with lasers___.
A.Q. - Please tell us where we can find out more about you and where we can buy your books.
If you really do want to know more about me, I recommend my blog at HYPERLINK. You can buy both of my books on Amazon, though This World Bites is also available through other stores.
This World Bites – Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/This-World-Bites-Townsend-Loni-ebook/dp/B00S74T0SO
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24481680-this-world-bites
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/This-World-Bites-Townsend-Loni-ebook/dp/B00S74T0SO/
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1121064991?ean=9781941022047
Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/this-world-bites
A.Q. - Thanks again for stopping in!
Thanks again for having me!
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Vicki Smith and the Sea Monkey Author Interview
Hi everybody! I told you the month of May was author interview month! Please welcome another of my writing chapter mates, Vicki Smith. Her book, Cursed Fate will be released from Liquid Silver in just a few days!
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A.Q. - Thanks for agreeing to answer some interview questions about yourself and your new book. So, What is your book about?
V.S. - My book is about a family curse and the daughter who has to break it.
The Blurb…
When artist and occasional witch Taylor Reed finds her ex-husband murdered in her kitchen, she denies what she really saw. Fearing the ominous presence will make her its next victim, she runs—right into Ben Jones.
Ben is a retired demon hunter, and though he’s left his former life behind, he’s compelled to help Taylor find answers and stop the demon hunting her. That’s not all he’s compelled to do…
A family curse, a binding ritual neither knew they were part of, and a demon who can’t be stopped unless Taylor and Ben resist their feelings—Cursed Fate is a journey of survival, and proof true love really can conquer all.
A.Q. - Can you share an interesting behind the scenes tidbit about your story?
V.S. - This story takes place in my favorite place – The Outer Banks of North Carolina, though I never really specify that.
The references to B&E brewing company and the weird beers is a shout out to my husband and brother-in-law’s beer brewing name and the weird beer the hero mentions was one they actually made.
A.Q. - What is your favorite part of the story writing process?
V.S. - It all depends… Sometimes it’s getting that first idea down and writing like the wind. Sometimes it’s working through the saggy middle. Sometimes it’s hitting The End.
A.Q. - Writing can be such an isolated enterprise. Yet, I’m sure there are people who have helped, guided or inspired you along the way to becoming a published author. Could you tell us about one of them and how they helped you?
V.S. - Oh. There are lots. Very top of the list has to be my husband. At the beginning of this whole thing, I read a book where the ending was so unsatisfying, I threw the book across the room. He told me if I thought I could do better, I should. I stopped making excuses for why I wasn’t writing and wrote.
A.Q. - What are you working on now/next?
V.S. - Now I’m working on a Halloween story to submit to my publisher. Next, I will be doing edits/submissions for some of my grittier stuff. New writing… I’m not sure yet… Definitely a post apocalyptic, but the idea isn’t fully formed yet…
Now for the S.A.T. portion of the interview!
Fill in the blank –
If I were a villain, I would have _gnomes_ for minions to deliver my wrath because _they are tough and totally out of control. (And remember, sea monkeys are already spoken for. Mostly)
Sea Monkeys are to gnomes as zombie stinkbugs are to training a puppy that is going to weigh more than me.
A.Q. - Please tell us where we can find out more about you and where we can buy your books.
V.S. - My books are available on Amazon and at LSBooks.com. You’re always welcome to stop by my blog or vickismith.wordpress.org. I’m on Twitter, but I kind of stink at that - @smith_victoria. I also have an author page on Facebook – www.facebook.com/AuthorVSmith
A.Q. - Thanks again for stopping in!
V.S. - Thank you for having me!
A.Q. - Thanks for agreeing to answer some interview questions about yourself and your new book. So, What is your book about?
V.S. - My book is about a family curse and the daughter who has to break it.
The Blurb…
When artist and occasional witch Taylor Reed finds her ex-husband murdered in her kitchen, she denies what she really saw. Fearing the ominous presence will make her its next victim, she runs—right into Ben Jones.
Ben is a retired demon hunter, and though he’s left his former life behind, he’s compelled to help Taylor find answers and stop the demon hunting her. That’s not all he’s compelled to do…
A family curse, a binding ritual neither knew they were part of, and a demon who can’t be stopped unless Taylor and Ben resist their feelings—Cursed Fate is a journey of survival, and proof true love really can conquer all.
A.Q. - Can you share an interesting behind the scenes tidbit about your story?
V.S. - This story takes place in my favorite place – The Outer Banks of North Carolina, though I never really specify that.
The references to B&E brewing company and the weird beers is a shout out to my husband and brother-in-law’s beer brewing name and the weird beer the hero mentions was one they actually made.
A.Q. - What is your favorite part of the story writing process?
V.S. - It all depends… Sometimes it’s getting that first idea down and writing like the wind. Sometimes it’s working through the saggy middle. Sometimes it’s hitting The End.
A.Q. - Writing can be such an isolated enterprise. Yet, I’m sure there are people who have helped, guided or inspired you along the way to becoming a published author. Could you tell us about one of them and how they helped you?
V.S. - Oh. There are lots. Very top of the list has to be my husband. At the beginning of this whole thing, I read a book where the ending was so unsatisfying, I threw the book across the room. He told me if I thought I could do better, I should. I stopped making excuses for why I wasn’t writing and wrote.
A.Q. - What are you working on now/next?
V.S. - Now I’m working on a Halloween story to submit to my publisher. Next, I will be doing edits/submissions for some of my grittier stuff. New writing… I’m not sure yet… Definitely a post apocalyptic, but the idea isn’t fully formed yet…
Now for the S.A.T. portion of the interview!
Fill in the blank –
If I were a villain, I would have _gnomes_ for minions to deliver my wrath because _they are tough and totally out of control. (And remember, sea monkeys are already spoken for. Mostly)
Sea Monkeys are to gnomes as zombie stinkbugs are to training a puppy that is going to weigh more than me.
A.Q. - Please tell us where we can find out more about you and where we can buy your books.
V.S. - My books are available on Amazon and at LSBooks.com. You’re always welcome to stop by my blog or vickismith.wordpress.org. I’m on Twitter, but I kind of stink at that - @smith_victoria. I also have an author page on Facebook – www.facebook.com/AuthorVSmith
A.Q. - Thanks again for stopping in!
V.S. - Thank you for having me!
Monday, May 19, 2014
Just A Boring Update
Hey everybody! I'm back from retreat and I was BRUTAL on my manuscript. RUTHLESS, I tell you!! Those sea monkeys are now MY Padawan learners. I have one more pass to do, then it's off to my crit partners.
I was Mommy again as soon as I walked in the door and was answering questions from the Youngest Urchin about the scientific origins of flatulence. So it kinda deflated my writing mojo, (I'll save you from posting the transcription. Some of the crazy at Chez Quinn is just too bizarre for public consumption.)
I got nominated for a Leibster Award by the fabulously awesome Marci Koski. If you haven't yet checked out this cool kid, you're missing out! I'll be answering all her probing questions later this month. So stay tuned for an unadulterated peek at me.
Speaking of answering questions, Vicki Smith will be here on Thursday to run the sea monkey interview gauntlet and to tell us a little about her up coming release.
So tell me, how's your writing going? Got a book out you'd like to tell us about? Any probing answers you'd like to give about your life? The comments are yours!
I was Mommy again as soon as I walked in the door and was answering questions from the Youngest Urchin about the scientific origins of flatulence. So it kinda deflated my writing mojo, (I'll save you from posting the transcription. Some of the crazy at Chez Quinn is just too bizarre for public consumption.)
I got nominated for a Leibster Award by the fabulously awesome Marci Koski. If you haven't yet checked out this cool kid, you're missing out! I'll be answering all her probing questions later this month. So stay tuned for an unadulterated peek at me.
Speaking of answering questions, Vicki Smith will be here on Thursday to run the sea monkey interview gauntlet and to tell us a little about her up coming release.
So tell me, how's your writing going? Got a book out you'd like to tell us about? Any probing answers you'd like to give about your life? The comments are yours!
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Sara Walter Ellwood's Sea Monkey Author Interview!
Please welcome Sara Walter Ellwood to Tongue in Cheek today.
A.Q. - Thanks for
agreeing to answer some interview questions about yourself and your book.
S.W.E. - Thanks for having me here today, Ava!
A.Q. - So, What is your book about?
S.W.E. - Sure,
Gambling On A Secret is a
contemporary western romantic suspense. Here’s the blurb and excerpt.
Blurb:
When Charli bets everything on a secret, will she find the deck stacked against her?
Former runaway-turned heiress Charli Monroe is
hiding her sordid past and planning a future in Colton, Texas. Attending the local college for
a degree in social work, she intends to raise cattle on her newly purchased
ranch, which she plans to open as a home for troubled teens. Only a few
glitches—the Victorian mansion is crumbling, the barn needs a roof, and her
oilman neighbor wants more than friendship. When she meets Dylan Quinn, Charli
is willing to take a chance on the town drunk to help her rebuild the rundown
ranch.
Dylan has his demons, too. The former Special Forces commander can’t
get past his ex-wife’s betrayal and the botched mission that left him with much
more than a bad limp. Certain the greedy oilman next door to Charli wants much
more than just her heart, Dylan’s even willing to stop drinking in order to protect
her.
When things get dangerous and secrets of the past are revealed, is he
only looking out for his new employer, or is she the new start he so
desperately needs?
Excerpt:
“Ferguson, what are you doing here?” Dylan barked.
Leon ambled toward them on the stone path. “I’m saving a
young maiden from torment. What are you doing here, playing the part of the
devil?”
“I’m Miss Monroe’s new manager.” The deadly edge of his
voice matched the flintiness of his eyes. “If there’s anyone to save the young
maiden from, it’s you.”
“Mr. Quinn, please.” She turned to Leon. “Leon, is there
something I can do for you?”
He smiled, showing off perfect white teeth in a face
handsome enough to belong to an actor. “I was just passing by on my way home
and decided to stop. How are the boys working out?”
Dylan’s stance widened and his hands flexed at his sides.
“What boys?”
“Charli and I have entered into a business arrangement.”
She lost the battle with the urge to wrap her arms around
herself. As much as she appreciated Leon’s kindness, respected him, and was
even a little attracted to him, something about him didn’t sit right with her.
He represented her peers in the community. According to Mrs. Pratt, besides the
Cartwrights, she and Leon were undoubtedly the wealthiest residents in the
county. No one in Colton could learn about her past. It would ruin her, and
Leon, no doubt, had the means to dig up the dirt.
“Really?” Dylan stepped closer to her in a protective
manner. Whiskey tainted his breath as the warmth of the exhalations tickled her
cheek. “What kind of business arrangement?”
She could protect herself. Dylan Quinn wasn’t any safer than
Leon Ferguson. Stepping away from him, she forced her arms to her sides. “Mr.
Quinn, I can handle this.”
She faced Leon. “I’m amazed by how much the men got done
since starting on Monday. The foreman told me last evening they’d be reseeding
another fifty acres for hay this morning. And they have the corrals fixed and
started on the fencing in the north pasture.”
“Good, good.” He glanced at Dylan. “I’ll be going, unless
you need a more reliable exterminator. I couldn’t help but overhear about your
snake infestation. I can give you the name of the company that has gotten rid
of the snakes in our lakes over on Oak Springs for years.”
Although he presented the perfect solution, she didn’t the
like way Leon had looked at Dylan as he said the word exterminator. “No,
Mr. Quinn is quite capable of getting rid of the snake.”
“Oh, I’m sure he is.” Leon tipped his hat. “Let me know if
there’s anything else I can do for you, Charli.” Dylan’s jaw tightened as his
uncle glanced at him. “It’s good to see you up among the living again.”
Leon headed back to his Porsche. With no pretense of
lowering his voice, Dylan said, “Now, there’s a snake no one wants in their
garden.”
Upon hearing the jibe, Leon’s shoulders jerked in
mid-stride.
Rattled by Leon’s attention and the snake fiasco, she turned
on Dylan. “You aren’t off the hook. I want those snakes gone.”
“We’ll see.”
“I hate snakes.” She shuddered and put her hands on her
hips. “Maybe I should have asked him who the exterminator is.”
A.Q. - Can you share
an interesting behind the scenes tidbit about your story?
S.W.E. - The original title of the book was “Butterfly”, which
reflected how I came up with the story after watching a butterfly hatch from
its cocoon, and the theme of changing into something better which is heavy in
the plot of the book. But my editor said, (rightfully so) “Butterfly” would
never suit for a western title. So, she suggested trying to tie the books
together with a common word in the title. I came up with “gambling” because the
history of the three main families in the books are tied to three gamblers who
won the county land in a poker game. Within a few minutes I had titles for all
six books---Gambling On A Secret,
Gambling On A Heart, Gambling
On A Dream, Gambling On A Wish, Gambling On A Song, and Gambling On A Lady.
A.Q. - What is your
favorite part of the story writing process?
S.W.E. - Believe it or not, I love the revision/editing process.
I find writing the first draft painful at times, but I love to edit and polish
that horrible rough draft into a book.
A.Q. - Writing can be
such an isolated enterprise. Yet, I’m sure there are people who have helped,
guided or inspired you along the way to becoming a published author. Could you
tell us about one of them and how they helped you?
S.W.E. - There are several people who stand out, but my very good
friends and critique partners D’Ann Lindun, Martha Ramirez and Carol Grosser
have been wonderful and helped shape the writer I am today. They each bring
something different to my writing and I value their opinions greatly
A.Q. - What are you
working on now/next?
S.W.E. - Right now, I’m working on two projects at once—book 3 of the
Colton Gamblers called Gambling On A
Dream and a standalone I plan to shop around to agents called A Family for Jesse. Both are
contemporary western romantic suspenses.
Now for the S.A.T.
portion of the interview:
Fill in the blank –
If I were a villain,
I would have __cute little puppies and kittens__ for minions to deliver my wrath because __everyone loves puppies
and kittens—so they are the perfect Trojan Horse__.
(And remember, sea monkeys are already spoken for. Mostly)
(And remember, sea monkeys are already spoken for. Mostly)
Sea Monkeys are to ____________
as zombie stinkbugs are to ________________.
I have no freakin’ idea!!!! Sorry.
I have no freakin’ idea!!!! Sorry.
A.Q. - LOL!! Please tell us
where we can find out more about you and where we can buy your books.
Sara Walter Ellwood is an award winning author whose novel Gambling On A Secret was named by bestselling author Carolyn Brown in the Happy Ever After Blog on USA Today as one of her favorite romances of 2012. Although Sara has long ago left the farm for the glamor of the big town, she draws on her experiences growing up on a small hobby farm in West Central Pennsylvania to write her stories. She's been married to her college sweetheart for nearly 20 years, and they have two teenagers and one very spoiled rescue cat named Penny. She longs to visit the places she writes about and jokes she's a cowgirl at heart stuck in Pennsylvania suburbia. She also writes paranormal romantic suspense under the pen name of Cera duBois.
Sara Walter Ellwood is an award winning author whose novel Gambling On A Secret was named by bestselling author Carolyn Brown in the Happy Ever After Blog on USA Today as one of her favorite romances of 2012. Although Sara has long ago left the farm for the glamor of the big town, she draws on her experiences growing up on a small hobby farm in West Central Pennsylvania to write her stories. She's been married to her college sweetheart for nearly 20 years, and they have two teenagers and one very spoiled rescue cat named Penny. She longs to visit the places she writes about and jokes she's a cowgirl at heart stuck in Pennsylvania suburbia. She also writes paranormal romantic suspense under the pen name of Cera duBois.
For Gambling On A Secret
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iTunes | Kobo
For Gambling On A Heart
For Heartstrings:
Author Links
~*~
Follow the Second Honeymoon Blog Tour HERE
A.Q. - Thanks again
for stopping in!
SWE - You bet!!!
Monday, May 12, 2014
Don't Hate Me Because I'm Going To Writer's Paradise
Remember that annoying commercial? No? Then by all means, let me inflict it upon you.
*subtext I hear
I'm really going to get you to hate me by the end of this post, I'm afeared. But I had to share. After all the craziness of the volunteerism gone mad from my life last month, I get to go indulge in my yearly writer's retreat. My local writer's group--whom I love like my youngest Urchin loved Alice Cooper when she was 4--goes away for three glorious days to a beautiful facility close to Pittsburgh. And all we do is write. And eat. And laugh. And then write some more. And it's BEAUTIFUL!!
No taxiing Urchins everywhere. No making meals. No doing laundry. No dealing with parental volunteers and evil principals and buying and creating supplies in the name of science education. No three year olds from my preschool yelling MORE JUICE!!. No glitter.**
**
Just me and my WIP that I've completely ignored in order to bring outdoor science education to 320 school children in a fun learning environment.(If I say it like that, I'm a little less bitter about it taking over my life. A very little bit.)
Some of my older followers may remember that I got partial requests from Harlequin and Sourcebooks for this one. And you may remember that Sourcebooks sent me a revise and resend for the full. Well, I'm going to revise like sea monkeys vie for world domination. Ruthlessly. (except with much less slime.) I want to make huge progress to make up for all the time I lost in April. Needless to say, I'm pretty damn excited!
The month of May is also turning into author interview month here at Tongue In Cheek. Last week I had the fabulous Melissa Maygrove over for the Sea Monkey Author Interview. I will be having two other authors from my writers' group here--one a week--to answer questions and then traverse through the sea monkey SAT portion of the interview.
So what are you doing this month? How's your writing going? Any insane volunteering going on in your life at the moment? Have your children/nieces/nephews/neighbor children had unhealthy obsessions with 70s rock stars? I wanna know!!
*Hate me because I'm a self absorbed ninny who thinks no deeper than appearances.
*subtext I hear
I'm really going to get you to hate me by the end of this post, I'm afeared. But I had to share. After all the craziness of the volunteerism gone mad from my life last month, I get to go indulge in my yearly writer's retreat. My local writer's group--whom I love like my youngest Urchin loved Alice Cooper when she was 4--goes away for three glorious days to a beautiful facility close to Pittsburgh. And all we do is write. And eat. And laugh. And then write some more. And it's BEAUTIFUL!!
No taxiing Urchins everywhere. No making meals. No doing laundry. No dealing with parental volunteers and evil principals and buying and creating supplies in the name of science education. No three year olds from my preschool yelling MORE JUICE!!. No glitter.**
**
Just me and my WIP that I've completely ignored in order to bring outdoor science education to 320 school children in a fun learning environment.(If I say it like that, I'm a little less bitter about it taking over my life. A very little bit.)
Some of my older followers may remember that I got partial requests from Harlequin and Sourcebooks for this one. And you may remember that Sourcebooks sent me a revise and resend for the full. Well, I'm going to revise like sea monkeys vie for world domination. Ruthlessly. (except with much less slime.) I want to make huge progress to make up for all the time I lost in April. Needless to say, I'm pretty damn excited!
The month of May is also turning into author interview month here at Tongue In Cheek. Last week I had the fabulous Melissa Maygrove over for the Sea Monkey Author Interview. I will be having two other authors from my writers' group here--one a week--to answer questions and then traverse through the sea monkey SAT portion of the interview.
So what are you doing this month? How's your writing going? Any insane volunteering going on in your life at the moment? Have your children/nieces/nephews/neighbor children had unhealthy obsessions with 70s rock stars? I wanna know!!
*Hate me because I'm a self absorbed ninny who thinks no deeper than appearances.
Friday, May 9, 2014
Melissa Maygrove-Author Interview-Sea Monkey Style!
Hi everyone! Today we have an author interview with Melissa Maygrove. Her historical Western comes out in just a few days, and I for one, can't wait. She was brave enough to come over and take the Sea Monkey SAT portion of the interview as well, so this gal's got grit! Please welcome Melissa to Tongue In Cheek.
Native Texan Melissa Maygrove is a wife, mother, nurse, freelance editor, and romance writer. When she's not busy caring for her tiny nursery patients or shuttling teenagers back and forth to after-school activities, she's hunched over her laptop complicating the lives of her imaginary friends and playing matchmaker. Melissa loves books with unpretentious characters and unforgettable romance, and she strives to create those same kinds of stories for her readers.
A.Q. - Thanks for
agreeing to answer some interview questions about yourself and your new book, Melissa.
M.M. - Wait. That looks an awful lot like S&M? Yikes! People
will think I write bondage. (:P Kidding) Thanks for inviting me! I’m honored to
be here.
A.Q. - Lol! So, What is your book about?
M.M.
- Come Back is a western historical romance
(Adult / New Adult) about a young woman
who gets left behind by a wagon train. She’s rescued by a hunky hero, of
course. :)
Left behind by
everyone she loves...
Rebecca Garvey had the promise of a California future dreams
are made of, until the wagon train her family was traveling with left her
behind. Now she’s slowly dying in the wilderness, abandoned and stripped of her
self-worth. Once the shock of her desertion turns to embittered despair, she
doesn’t want to be found. Then a handsome stranger challenges her convictions
and changes her mind.
Headed for Texas,
chased by the demons of his past...
Seth Emerson knows exactly what he wants. Working to save
for a cattle ranch of his own keeps him busy and keeps his pain buried. Rescuing
a stubborn woman from the hills of New Mexico Territory isn’t part of his
plan—but she’s exactly what he needs.
Making greater
sacrifices than either of them could foresee...
Seth and Rebecca set off on a risky journey and a quest for
truth, each healing the other’s love-starved soul along the way. Will they give
in to their growing attraction? Or will
they honor their commitments when Seth returns Rebecca to civilization... and
her betrothed?
A.Q. - Can you share
an interesting behind the scenes tidbit about your story?
M.M. – You’d think after more than two years spent writing
this novel I’d have a whole list of behind-the-scenes stories, but this
question stumped me. One thing people might find interesting is where the
inspiration for the story came from.
I home-schooled my daughter for a few years. As part of one
of her history lessons, we read a book about a teenage girl traveling west. It
was written in the form of a diary and mentioned various belongings westward
travelers would dump to lighten their loads on the trail. I imagined a young,
abandoned woman using these things to survive, and the first sketchy plot note
for Come Back was born.
A.Q. - What is your
favorite part of the story writing process?
M.M. – I love the idea stage, when you can barely jot your
thoughts down fast enough, and the research stage is often fun (I did a LOT
with this book). But I’d have to say doing the final read-through and seeing a
story in its polished, finished form is the best part of all.
A.Q. - Writing can be
such an isolated enterprise. Yet, I’m sure there are people who have helped,
guided or inspired you along the way to becoming a published author. Could you
tell us about one of them and how they helped you?
M.M. – I have been blessed by many talented people during my
journey, but the one who’s helped me the most is Carrie Butler. We met by chance
when I put an ad online for a CP. She kindly stuck with me through my first
WIP, bless her heart (Come Back is my
third), and she has grown to be as much a dear friend as a colleague. I
wouldn’t be where I am as an author—and I mean writing, techy skills, social
media, everything—if it wasn’t for
her.
A.Q. - What are you
working on now/next?
M.M. – Publishing my debut novel has kept me crazy busy. I
haven’t had time to think about much else. I do have a NA dystopian in the
works. I also have an idea for a novella (or short novel) featuring two
supporting characters in Come Back.
Can’t say who they are, though. It’d be a spoiler. ;)
Now for the S.A.T.
portion of the interview:
Fill in the blank –
If I were a villain,
I would have __chemical mutagens__
for minions to deliver my wrath because __they can silently slip between
your DNA__. (And remember, sea monkeys are already spoken
for. Mostly.)
Sea Monkeys are to __kids__ as zombie stinkbugs are to __Beetlejuice__.
A.Q. - Please tell us
where we can find out more about you and where we can buy your books.
M.M. – The best place is my website: www.melissamaygrove.com. Everything
is there, including links to my social media haunts and my writer’s blog. Come Back is my debut and is set to
release May 12th. Buy links will be added as they become available.
A.Q. - Thanks again
for stopping in!
M.M. – Thank you! Now I can say I took the sea monkey SATs
over at Ava’s. :)
A.Q. - And lived to tell the tale!! lol!
A.Q. - And lived to tell the tale!! lol!
Melissa is also having an awesome giveaway! Check out the details here, then stop over at Melissa's blog to enter!
Contest starts May 5th
and ends at midnight on May 19th.
Winners will be announced May 21st.
The two prizes are:
A $50 gift card to your choice of Amazon
or Barnes & Noble (Book Depository for international entrants)
A signed paperback copy of Come Back for winner living in the cont.
U.S. or Authorgraph + e-book copy (international entrant)
Good luck!!
Friday, April 25, 2014
AtoZ Villanous Minions Needed
Hey there all you AtoZ participants! Thanks for stopping in. As you read, I'm most likely in the woods with 180 kids, making sure they get a huge dose of outdoor environmental science. And also probably a little insane. Here's hoping I bounce back!
Anywho! My theme this year is a sampling of the zaniness that has gone on around here in the years Tongue In Cheek has evolved. My only regret is that there are only 26 days in which to post six years of crazy nonsense that has occurred. Definitely not enough time to expose you to the true level of my insanity. Which is actually probably a good thing. So, on with the freakshow! Here's a glimpse of my sanity levels from 2010. Enjoy this...
Thursday Ridiculousness
Super Villain Update - Well, I'm scouting some new minion talent since negotiations with the sea monkeys are stalled. Right now I'm courting bandito lobsters, which as you know are the badasses of the crustacean world. I'm sure you've seen their work. But just in case you haven't, here's a little sample.
They really reek of harbingers of doom, huh? Huh? Definitely capable of delivering my wrath. So I'm considering them. If I contact them, I'll do some trial runs, see how we work together. You know, run of the mill stuff.
I'm also thinking about hiring this group to write my theme song once I decide on who will become the deliverers of my wrath. What do you think?
Anywho! My theme this year is a sampling of the zaniness that has gone on around here in the years Tongue In Cheek has evolved. My only regret is that there are only 26 days in which to post six years of crazy nonsense that has occurred. Definitely not enough time to expose you to the true level of my insanity. Which is actually probably a good thing. So, on with the freakshow! Here's a glimpse of my sanity levels from 2010. Enjoy this...
Thursday Ridiculousness
Super Villain Update - Well, I'm scouting some new minion talent since negotiations with the sea monkeys are stalled. Right now I'm courting bandito lobsters, which as you know are the badasses of the crustacean world. I'm sure you've seen their work. But just in case you haven't, here's a little sample.
They really reek of harbingers of doom, huh? Huh? Definitely capable of delivering my wrath. So I'm considering them. If I contact them, I'll do some trial runs, see how we work together. You know, run of the mill stuff.
I'm also thinking about hiring this group to write my theme song once I decide on who will become the deliverers of my wrath. What do you think?
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
AtoZ Super Villain Plans
Hi there, AtoZ Challengers and any other happy campers who've happened upon Tongue In Cheek. Today we take a stroll down TiC memory lane with two posts written in 2010 when I decided to broaden my horizons and wrath delivery options by becoming a super villain.
My Evil Plans Are Coming Together
So I haven't been around in the internets for a while. I've been up to no good, of course. Most recently I've been studying up over at ISS (International Society of Supervillains). I've been busy taking the evil ranking quiz, checking out the faq, designing and discarding different costuming ideas. You know, the usual.
You may ask what brought on such drastic and evil preparations, but there's no one concrete event. I'm just getting ready for the distribution of my wrath when I reach the very edge and am thrust over into the boiling chasm of evil. It's always good policy to be prepared.
I'm attempting to convert the sea monkeys to my will. Many, I know, would mock the seemingly wuss-like reputation of the sea monkeys. Only I understand the full range of their power. Only I understand their determination. Only I understand their need to spread their slimy society like a virus until it covers the Earth! Soon I will be their mistress, and they will deliver my wrath! Bwa haa haa haaaaacoughcoughcough!
Uh. whoops. Heh, heh. Did I blog that out loud? Never mind. Condition normal. All is well. Back to the grind!
Super Villain Update
So the Super Villain plans are on the back burner right now. My negotiations with the sea monkeys are bogged down in lawyer speak. The sea monkeys, which hitherto will be referred to as the first party, have resisted my attempts at a hostile take over and flat out refuse to become my minions. Sigh. I was so sure I could bend them to my will.
Also, the costuming is becoming a problem as I field test. Each material has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Leather, which had been my first pick, really doesn't breathe well. And it constricts movement. So my kung-fu actions would be hindered. Though it does afford a certain amount of protection, especially if I decide that a motorcycle will be my main form of transportation. Spandex, on the other hand, allows for free range of motion, yet no protection whatsoever. Plus, I just don't have the body for it any more. I mean, I want to be taken seriously as a major player in the realm of Super Villains, right?
Also, in my sea monkey negotiations, they want a nod. One of their demands is that I must wear a sea monkey crest or logo of some sort. And while I have a long history of battling sea monkeys and am aware of their wily and nefarious nature, their PR people are just too darn good. For years they've been cleaning up their image. I mean, you tell me, how is this supposed to strike fear into the hearts of an unsuspecting populace?
So I'm stalled. I'm sure everything will turn out all right in the end and my minions will come online. And the costuming issues will fall into place. Until then, I guess I'll just have to be patient.
But, faithful legions, I would appreciate your input on an impromptu poll regarding my costuming and transportation issues. Please select your favorite from each category. Post your selections to the comments. All opinions welcome. Thanks, and have a slimy sea monkey day!
Transportation
motorcycle
amphibious landing craft
armored personnel carrier
Vespa and water wings
Costume material
leather
Spandex
sea weed
breathable 100% cotton
Sea monkey logo
just the head with crown
crossed tridents with sea monkey hand, head, pet sea horse and castle in the four spaces to form a shield crest
Stylized SMW which stands for Sea Monkey Woman
My Evil Plans Are Coming Together
So I haven't been around in the internets for a while. I've been up to no good, of course. Most recently I've been studying up over at ISS (International Society of Supervillains). I've been busy taking the evil ranking quiz, checking out the faq, designing and discarding different costuming ideas. You know, the usual.
You may ask what brought on such drastic and evil preparations, but there's no one concrete event. I'm just getting ready for the distribution of my wrath when I reach the very edge and am thrust over into the boiling chasm of evil. It's always good policy to be prepared.
I'm attempting to convert the sea monkeys to my will. Many, I know, would mock the seemingly wuss-like reputation of the sea monkeys. Only I understand the full range of their power. Only I understand their determination. Only I understand their need to spread their slimy society like a virus until it covers the Earth! Soon I will be their mistress, and they will deliver my wrath! Bwa haa haa haaaaacoughcoughcough!
Uh. whoops. Heh, heh. Did I blog that out loud? Never mind. Condition normal. All is well. Back to the grind!
Super Villain Update
So the Super Villain plans are on the back burner right now. My negotiations with the sea monkeys are bogged down in lawyer speak. The sea monkeys, which hitherto will be referred to as the first party, have resisted my attempts at a hostile take over and flat out refuse to become my minions. Sigh. I was so sure I could bend them to my will.
Also, the costuming is becoming a problem as I field test. Each material has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Leather, which had been my first pick, really doesn't breathe well. And it constricts movement. So my kung-fu actions would be hindered. Though it does afford a certain amount of protection, especially if I decide that a motorcycle will be my main form of transportation. Spandex, on the other hand, allows for free range of motion, yet no protection whatsoever. Plus, I just don't have the body for it any more. I mean, I want to be taken seriously as a major player in the realm of Super Villains, right?
Also, in my sea monkey negotiations, they want a nod. One of their demands is that I must wear a sea monkey crest or logo of some sort. And while I have a long history of battling sea monkeys and am aware of their wily and nefarious nature, their PR people are just too darn good. For years they've been cleaning up their image. I mean, you tell me, how is this supposed to strike fear into the hearts of an unsuspecting populace?
So I'm stalled. I'm sure everything will turn out all right in the end and my minions will come online. And the costuming issues will fall into place. Until then, I guess I'll just have to be patient.
But, faithful legions, I would appreciate your input on an impromptu poll regarding my costuming and transportation issues. Please select your favorite from each category. Post your selections to the comments. All opinions welcome. Thanks, and have a slimy sea monkey day!
Transportation
motorcycle
amphibious landing craft
armored personnel carrier
Vespa and water wings
Costume material
leather
Spandex
sea weed
breathable 100% cotton
Sea monkey logo
just the head with crown
crossed tridents with sea monkey hand, head, pet sea horse and castle in the four spaces to form a shield crest
Stylized SMW which stands for Sea Monkey Woman
Monday, April 21, 2014
AtoZ The 3 R's Writing, Rummaging and Ridiculousness
Helooooooo Atozers! So glad you've stopped by! I'm trying to keep up with answering comments and visiting anyone who stops in (as well as venturing out to others), but please know that this is an extremely hectic time of year for me, which is why I decided to participate for the first time by utilizing reruns. So If I don't get to you now, be assured I will get to you later to share the love and the good karma!
Today we have the three R's of Tongue In Cheek...
Writing Rummaging and Ridiculousness
So, okay, those are the 3 Rs here at Tongue In Cheek. They may not necessarily be your three.
Anywho, here we go.
Writing
Yeah, pretty much nonexistent right now. The oldest Urchin has started up again with what brought her down last fall. And of course, every crazy test the doctors could think of was done to her. So they're at a loss as to what else to try. They just say inane things like, "Stay the course" and "A thousand points of light" and get me so irritated that I switch around everything in their exam room while we're left alone waiting. Yeah, that's right, search for those tongue depressors. Search for them!
Ahem. Sorry.
I've also been sick for the past week, so my drive is not what it should be. Getting out of bed takes so much effort that opening and editing a wip is more than I can stand right now.
But, I'm leaving on Friday morning for the New Jersey Romance Writer's conference. If I ever look up the directions on how to get there, that is. I attended two years ago, and found it worthwhile. Even though the fire alarm went off in the middle of the night at the hotel. So hopefully going to the conference will get some of my writing mojo to return.
Rummaging
I am a rummage sale junkie. I love a good rummage sale like stink bugs love my underwear drawer.
Whilst arriving early to a particularly good one late in the summer, I eyed the crowd. They were a feisty looking bunch. Frazzled moms with fidgety children, little blue-haired old ladies with huge shopping bags made of recycled plastic (you know, the ones with the sharp, pointy corners), unkempt, overweight, sweat pant wearing men with stringy comb overs.
Yes they were a well seasoned, yet motley crew of hard core rummage maniacs. This is the kind of crowd where the little old ladies will run you over with their wire baskets-on-wheels as soon as look at you. The unkempt men will use every available body odor in their human stink arsenal to clear a section they want. And the mommies will sic their little mucus encrusted darlings on your ass before you can say viscous liquids.
Hard. Core.
All they needed were some eye patches, peg legs and a touch of scurvy, and they'd be the masters of the Seven Seas.
So as I walked down the sidewalk, eyeing the line of competition, and receiving the hairy eyeball in return, I busted out my best professional wrestling announcer voice and yelled, "Let's get ready to RUUUUUMMMAAAAAAAGGE!!!!"
Everyone gave me a lot of room after that, leaving me to browse sections at my leisure. (I owe all my psychological warfare tactics to the sea monkeys.)
Ridiculousness
No, that last section wasn't the ridiculousness. Sheesh. This will be some random ridiculousness.
I found a dead, dried out, cracking apart stink bug.
In my underwear drawer. EEEEEEEEWWWWW! All right, that was more like the "What's Grosser Than Gross" jokes that permeated the early eighties. (You all remember those, right? What's grosser than gross? Finding out your brother's scab collection is missing after eating a bowl of Cornflakes.)
My Reign as the county 'Possum Queen is soon coming to an end, and I'll need to attend the Moonshine and Fried Possum Carnival in the first weekend of November to hand over my crown of taxidermied 'possums with rhinestone accents to the next queen. Ahh, the memories I'll be taking with me after this year of excitement. If you haven't accompanied me on the journey and missed it, check out the 'Possum Queen category to the right and catch up on all the 'possumy goodness this year has wrought.
So I'm off to get my annual haircut today for the writer's conference. My hair is ridiculously long. It reaches my waist. Time to get a few inches off.
So tell me. How are your writing, rummaging and ridiculousness going?
Today we have the three R's of Tongue In Cheek...
Writing Rummaging and Ridiculousness
So, okay, those are the 3 Rs here at Tongue In Cheek. They may not necessarily be your three.
Anywho, here we go.
Writing
Yeah, pretty much nonexistent right now. The oldest Urchin has started up again with what brought her down last fall. And of course, every crazy test the doctors could think of was done to her. So they're at a loss as to what else to try. They just say inane things like, "Stay the course" and "A thousand points of light" and get me so irritated that I switch around everything in their exam room while we're left alone waiting. Yeah, that's right, search for those tongue depressors. Search for them!
Ahem. Sorry.
I've also been sick for the past week, so my drive is not what it should be. Getting out of bed takes so much effort that opening and editing a wip is more than I can stand right now.
But, I'm leaving on Friday morning for the New Jersey Romance Writer's conference. If I ever look up the directions on how to get there, that is. I attended two years ago, and found it worthwhile. Even though the fire alarm went off in the middle of the night at the hotel. So hopefully going to the conference will get some of my writing mojo to return.
Rummaging
I am a rummage sale junkie. I love a good rummage sale like stink bugs love my underwear drawer.
Whilst arriving early to a particularly good one late in the summer, I eyed the crowd. They were a feisty looking bunch. Frazzled moms with fidgety children, little blue-haired old ladies with huge shopping bags made of recycled plastic (you know, the ones with the sharp, pointy corners), unkempt, overweight, sweat pant wearing men with stringy comb overs.
Yes they were a well seasoned, yet motley crew of hard core rummage maniacs. This is the kind of crowd where the little old ladies will run you over with their wire baskets-on-wheels as soon as look at you. The unkempt men will use every available body odor in their human stink arsenal to clear a section they want. And the mommies will sic their little mucus encrusted darlings on your ass before you can say viscous liquids.
Hard. Core.
All they needed were some eye patches, peg legs and a touch of scurvy, and they'd be the masters of the Seven Seas.
So as I walked down the sidewalk, eyeing the line of competition, and receiving the hairy eyeball in return, I busted out my best professional wrestling announcer voice and yelled, "Let's get ready to RUUUUUMMMAAAAAAAGGE!!!!"
Everyone gave me a lot of room after that, leaving me to browse sections at my leisure. (I owe all my psychological warfare tactics to the sea monkeys.)
Ridiculousness
No, that last section wasn't the ridiculousness. Sheesh. This will be some random ridiculousness.
I found a dead, dried out, cracking apart stink bug.
In my underwear drawer. EEEEEEEEWWWWW! All right, that was more like the "What's Grosser Than Gross" jokes that permeated the early eighties. (You all remember those, right? What's grosser than gross? Finding out your brother's scab collection is missing after eating a bowl of Cornflakes.)
My Reign as the county 'Possum Queen is soon coming to an end, and I'll need to attend the Moonshine and Fried Possum Carnival in the first weekend of November to hand over my crown of taxidermied 'possums with rhinestone accents to the next queen. Ahh, the memories I'll be taking with me after this year of excitement. If you haven't accompanied me on the journey and missed it, check out the 'Possum Queen category to the right and catch up on all the 'possumy goodness this year has wrought.
So I'm off to get my annual haircut today for the writer's conference. My hair is ridiculously long. It reaches my waist. Time to get a few inches off.
So tell me. How are your writing, rummaging and ridiculousness going?
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
AtoZ Greetings From the Sea Monkeys
Welcome back AtoZ fans! I hope you're having as much fun visiting blogs as I am. The list of participants are linked to the AtoZ badge over there in my sidebar if you'd like a quick link to who's participating. (After you're finished here, of course. lol)
Today's rerun comes from a post back in 2008. It was a piece I wrote for my writing group's newsletter, and contains the first official mention of sea monkeys at this blog. The Sea Monkeys made many more appearances as the years went on. For instance, any author who does an interview here, must complete the Sea Monkey S.A.T. portion at the end. Though I've been unable to bend them to my will and force them to become my minions to deliver my wrath, enjoy this first peek at why they're so dominant here.
Writing Versus Reality
Sea monkeys are living in my bathtub. Or, at least, that’s what I’m telling my husband. They come in the night and commandeer the shower, creating an environment conducive to sea monkey survival. That’s why I haven’t cleaned it lately. It’s a little known fact that sea monkeys are on the endangered species list. If I cleaned the tub more often, I’d literally be wiping out one of the largest known colonies on the planet. How could I live with myself?
The dust rhinos, on the other hand, are beginning to bully my dogs. I may need to do some eradicating in that arena soon. What am I talking about? Reality. Yes, reality. Reality crashing in and taking away from my time to write.
I wasn’t raised to be a slovenly housekeeper. On the contrary, being raised in the home of my grandmother, I can house clean with the best of them. I can shampoo rugs by hand, mix a powerful cleaning solution out of Borax, and fix an old Hoover faster than Macgyver. However, my ability to clean is not under scrutiny right now. The fact that I choose to sacrifice a supremely clean house for time to write is.
As an aspiring author, I’ve found I need to make trade offs with reality to fit in time to write. I’m sure I’m not alone. We all know it’s crucial to make time for the things important to us. In this case– writing. Unfortunately, no matter how sacred writing time is, reality continues to rear its ugly head and take bites out of any carefully laid schedule. Deftly gobbling up chunks of time set aside to write.
Tell me if this sounds familiar. Have to stop at the bank. Must do holiday shopping. Got to get the oil changed. Holy moly, what’s for dinner? Who used every square of toilet paper in the entire house?! Why didn’t you tell me before that you volunteered me for that? How come there’s no dish detergent? What happened to all the towels? Tell me again why you need to be driven to the library right now? If I don’t do the laundry soon I’ll have to beat it back with a stick when it walks out of there of its own volition.
You get the idea. Reality one; writing zero.
My advice? Let go of something small before all your writing time is eaten away. Having time to write is the only way an aspiring author can make it to authordom. Don’t let the reality time-eaters win!
Here are a few guidelines I’ve created to get that writing score a little higher and to ease my conscience from all the housework I am currently dodging. Feel free to adapt it to whatever you might decide to let slip in the name of that elusive writing time.
1. Dust leaves a lovely patina on furniture, especially if left undisturbed.
2. Dust bunnies make excellent pets.
3. Dog hair is the dog’s contribution to decor.
4. Same thing goes for cats.
5. Dish washing builds character in children.
So now you know my dirty little secret. My house is a bit messy, but I’m feverishly typing away in the small intervals of the day to change my status from aspiring to published. I refuse to let the small time-eating realities of everyday living erode what time I have to write. So fight the good fight and struggle on. And know that the sea monkeys are on your side.
Today's rerun comes from a post back in 2008. It was a piece I wrote for my writing group's newsletter, and contains the first official mention of sea monkeys at this blog. The Sea Monkeys made many more appearances as the years went on. For instance, any author who does an interview here, must complete the Sea Monkey S.A.T. portion at the end. Though I've been unable to bend them to my will and force them to become my minions to deliver my wrath, enjoy this first peek at why they're so dominant here.
Writing Versus Reality
Sea monkeys are living in my bathtub. Or, at least, that’s what I’m telling my husband. They come in the night and commandeer the shower, creating an environment conducive to sea monkey survival. That’s why I haven’t cleaned it lately. It’s a little known fact that sea monkeys are on the endangered species list. If I cleaned the tub more often, I’d literally be wiping out one of the largest known colonies on the planet. How could I live with myself?
The dust rhinos, on the other hand, are beginning to bully my dogs. I may need to do some eradicating in that arena soon. What am I talking about? Reality. Yes, reality. Reality crashing in and taking away from my time to write.
I wasn’t raised to be a slovenly housekeeper. On the contrary, being raised in the home of my grandmother, I can house clean with the best of them. I can shampoo rugs by hand, mix a powerful cleaning solution out of Borax, and fix an old Hoover faster than Macgyver. However, my ability to clean is not under scrutiny right now. The fact that I choose to sacrifice a supremely clean house for time to write is.
As an aspiring author, I’ve found I need to make trade offs with reality to fit in time to write. I’m sure I’m not alone. We all know it’s crucial to make time for the things important to us. In this case– writing. Unfortunately, no matter how sacred writing time is, reality continues to rear its ugly head and take bites out of any carefully laid schedule. Deftly gobbling up chunks of time set aside to write.
Tell me if this sounds familiar. Have to stop at the bank. Must do holiday shopping. Got to get the oil changed. Holy moly, what’s for dinner? Who used every square of toilet paper in the entire house?! Why didn’t you tell me before that you volunteered me for that? How come there’s no dish detergent? What happened to all the towels? Tell me again why you need to be driven to the library right now? If I don’t do the laundry soon I’ll have to beat it back with a stick when it walks out of there of its own volition.
You get the idea. Reality one; writing zero.
My advice? Let go of something small before all your writing time is eaten away. Having time to write is the only way an aspiring author can make it to authordom. Don’t let the reality time-eaters win!
Here are a few guidelines I’ve created to get that writing score a little higher and to ease my conscience from all the housework I am currently dodging. Feel free to adapt it to whatever you might decide to let slip in the name of that elusive writing time.
1. Dust leaves a lovely patina on furniture, especially if left undisturbed.
2. Dust bunnies make excellent pets.
3. Dog hair is the dog’s contribution to decor.
4. Same thing goes for cats.
5. Dish washing builds character in children.
So now you know my dirty little secret. My house is a bit messy, but I’m feverishly typing away in the small intervals of the day to change my status from aspiring to published. I refuse to let the small time-eating realities of everyday living erode what time I have to write. So fight the good fight and struggle on. And know that the sea monkeys are on your side.
Thursday, January 9, 2014
Tongue In Cheek 2013 In Review
Hi everyone. I'm actually getting my year in review out a little earlier than usual. Go figure! I started blogging in 2008. Yes. That long ago. And yes, I probably should have more followers by now, but it takes a special person to sign on publicly for my particular brand of crazy. And for your dedication, I salute you! (insert Three Amigo's salute here***)
Here are the three years in which I did do a review. Just in case, you know, you'd like a disturbing look back at what goes through my head on a yearly basis.
2010's year in review
2011's year in review
2012's year in review
And now, on to 2013!
January
I expounded on my conspiracy theory about how Bratz are the precursors to an alien takeover. A deer T-boned my mini van. I revealed what a girls' night in at Chez Quinn with the Urchins looks like (hint, Star Wars played a major role). I regaled singers and songwriters/storytellers of The Blues and shared one of my favorite female Blues artist. Among other things.
February
I explained how my carny goldfish and the Sea Monkey tribe from my bathtub were in cahoots. Author Sara Walter Ellwood stopped by for an interview. A very dear, old friend of mine, WWII veteran, Marine, wonderful man, passed away. I got to escape into the real world with my bff. Craziness, of course, ensued. I drove my daughter's former teacher home from conferences in her brand new, one day old car as she puked into a trashcan, riding shotgun. I lamented on the brutality of February and retaliated against it with some excellent Funk Music.
March
The flu raged through Casa de Quinn. I took a closer look at the mutton chop in my series on the sideburn. Mii music and my secret imaginary boyfriend attempted to kill me. I also offered pirate translation services.
April
I made a plea to myself to stop volunteering. The oldest Urchin was again inflicted with a semi-serious affliction. I found the upside of impatience when it comes to my writing. I declared my new found love of guacamole. And I shared a clip of the absolutely astounding Nicholas Brothers.
May
I did way too many things. I had a motorcycle accident. I did even more volunteer work. I visited paradise for three days. And did even more work.
June
I saw the powerful movie Girl Rising. My 71 year old mother enjoyed the roller derby. I worried about my Youngest Urchin's villain tendencies and then figured I shouldn't look too closely at myself. And then my opthalmologist tried to shiv my eye.
July
I found an AC/DC playing, fire shooting bagpiper. I again did way too much. We went to Montana to visit my parents and I set up some moldy-oldy TiC reruns.
August
I had double eye infections. The Oldest Urchin had eye troubles and I reminisced about the crazy things that went wrong with her birthday parties. I rejoined the work force. And other stuff.
September
I shared my impressions of working with three year olds. I had some more fun with taxidermied squirrels. I lamented with Madeleine Kahn that I was tired. I participated in Melissa Maygrove's awesome brainchild, Follow Fest.
October
My Urchins and I reveled in watching Star Wars. Again. I lamented that I didn't get a flu shot. I went to the NJRW conference and later got a very nice award from the very nice Ashley Nixon. I ruminated on selling my beloved motorcycle. And I went all soft and geeky over Star Wars jack-o-lanterns.
November
A head cold laid me low. Much hilariousness ensued. I participated in the fabulous Mina Lobo's Resurrection Blogfest II. I discussed rocket ship underwear, and writing and music. And I celebrated Thanksgiving with Arlo Guthrie.
December
I lamented that I didn't stop volunteering and proposed some great products to facilitate your holiday shopping. I shared the last of the roller derby bouts and put my motorcycle into hibernation. I made some excuses for not blogging due to all my busy-ness, I started to develop a personality test based on the parts of Christmas specials that a person liked best. And the Oldest Urchin and I got the flu. Again.
So there you have it. Almost all the zaniness of a year full of Tongue in Cheek in one blog post. I hope it didn't make your brain explode.
Here's to a great 2014 for us all!
***
Here are the three years in which I did do a review. Just in case, you know, you'd like a disturbing look back at what goes through my head on a yearly basis.
2010's year in review
2011's year in review
2012's year in review
And now, on to 2013!
January
I expounded on my conspiracy theory about how Bratz are the precursors to an alien takeover. A deer T-boned my mini van. I revealed what a girls' night in at Chez Quinn with the Urchins looks like (hint, Star Wars played a major role). I regaled singers and songwriters/storytellers of The Blues and shared one of my favorite female Blues artist. Among other things.
February
I explained how my carny goldfish and the Sea Monkey tribe from my bathtub were in cahoots. Author Sara Walter Ellwood stopped by for an interview. A very dear, old friend of mine, WWII veteran, Marine, wonderful man, passed away. I got to escape into the real world with my bff. Craziness, of course, ensued. I drove my daughter's former teacher home from conferences in her brand new, one day old car as she puked into a trashcan, riding shotgun. I lamented on the brutality of February and retaliated against it with some excellent Funk Music.
March
The flu raged through Casa de Quinn. I took a closer look at the mutton chop in my series on the sideburn. Mii music and my secret imaginary boyfriend attempted to kill me. I also offered pirate translation services.
April
I made a plea to myself to stop volunteering. The oldest Urchin was again inflicted with a semi-serious affliction. I found the upside of impatience when it comes to my writing. I declared my new found love of guacamole. And I shared a clip of the absolutely astounding Nicholas Brothers.
May
I did way too many things. I had a motorcycle accident. I did even more volunteer work. I visited paradise for three days. And did even more work.
June
I saw the powerful movie Girl Rising. My 71 year old mother enjoyed the roller derby. I worried about my Youngest Urchin's villain tendencies and then figured I shouldn't look too closely at myself. And then my opthalmologist tried to shiv my eye.
July
I found an AC/DC playing, fire shooting bagpiper. I again did way too much. We went to Montana to visit my parents and I set up some moldy-oldy TiC reruns.
August
I had double eye infections. The Oldest Urchin had eye troubles and I reminisced about the crazy things that went wrong with her birthday parties. I rejoined the work force. And other stuff.
September
I shared my impressions of working with three year olds. I had some more fun with taxidermied squirrels. I lamented with Madeleine Kahn that I was tired. I participated in Melissa Maygrove's awesome brainchild, Follow Fest.
October
My Urchins and I reveled in watching Star Wars. Again. I lamented that I didn't get a flu shot. I went to the NJRW conference and later got a very nice award from the very nice Ashley Nixon. I ruminated on selling my beloved motorcycle. And I went all soft and geeky over Star Wars jack-o-lanterns.
November
A head cold laid me low. Much hilariousness ensued. I participated in the fabulous Mina Lobo's Resurrection Blogfest II. I discussed rocket ship underwear, and writing and music. And I celebrated Thanksgiving with Arlo Guthrie.
December
I lamented that I didn't stop volunteering and proposed some great products to facilitate your holiday shopping. I shared the last of the roller derby bouts and put my motorcycle into hibernation. I made some excuses for not blogging due to all my busy-ness, I started to develop a personality test based on the parts of Christmas specials that a person liked best. And the Oldest Urchin and I got the flu. Again.
So there you have it. Almost all the zaniness of a year full of Tongue in Cheek in one blog post. I hope it didn't make your brain explode.
Here's to a great 2014 for us all!
***
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Follow Fest at Tongue In Cheek
Hi everybody! I found out about the Follow Fest at the last minute, and couldn't help but join in, even though I've never participated in a blog hop/fest before. Thanks to Melissa Maygrove for coming up with such a great idea! Be sure to check out all the cool authors signed up by clicking the Follow Fest picture above.
Now for the questions.
Now for the questions.
Name: Ava Quinn
Fiction or nonfiction? Fiction. (Though everything on this blog is true. Except for the stuff that isn't.)
What genres do you write? Contemporary Western Romance.
Are you published? Not Yet.
Do you do anything in addition to
writing? I mom, I work with a room full of three year olds 4 days a week, and I write. Did I mention that I mom?
Where can people connect with you?
Here at Tongue in Cheek or at my website avaquinn.com.
Is there anything else you’d like
us to know?
I'm currently the president of my local chapter of Romance Writers of America. I ride a motorcycle. I'm the former 'Possum Queen of my county. I battle against the Sea Monkey tribe attempting to take over my bathtub when not trying to convert them to be my minions. And I occasionally find time to write.
Sunday, May 26, 2013
Last Week I Was In Paradise
No, it wasn't a tropical getaway. No, it wasn't my happy place. It was my writing group's annual retreat!
Three days of writing and talking and writing and eating and writing and laughing. All with otherlike minded crazy people writers.
I roomed with the fabulous Delynn Royer. We had a wonderful time talking shop and everything else under the sun.
I painted my nails- which is a well known fact that I paint them every year at the retreat and then anything else I get done is gravy. Unfortunately, the fingernail polish is all but chipped off already. It was a lovely shade of what Delynn insisted was taupe. Which I wouldn't have been able to name even if Sea Monkeys were ready to launch a deadly, soggy assault if I didn't.
So I got to put aside the huge science field day for a little while and focus on my writing again. Which was heavenly.
What constitutes paradise for you?
Three days of writing and talking and writing and eating and writing and laughing. All with other
I roomed with the fabulous Delynn Royer. We had a wonderful time talking shop and everything else under the sun.
I painted my nails- which is a well known fact that I paint them every year at the retreat and then anything else I get done is gravy. Unfortunately, the fingernail polish is all but chipped off already. It was a lovely shade of what Delynn insisted was taupe. Which I wouldn't have been able to name even if Sea Monkeys were ready to launch a deadly, soggy assault if I didn't.
So I got to put aside the huge science field day for a little while and focus on my writing again. Which was heavenly.
What constitutes paradise for you?
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Sara Walter Ellwood Gambling On A Secret Author Interview
Please welcome Sara Walter Ellwood to Tongue in Cheek today.
A.Q. - Thanks for
agreeing to answer some interview questions about yourself and your new book.
S.W.E. - Thanks for having me here today, Ava!
A.Q. - So, What is your book about?
S.W.E. - Sure,
Gambling On A Secret is a
contemporary western romantic suspense. Here’s the blurb and excerpt.
Blurb:
When Charli bets everything on a secret, will she find the deck stacked against her?
Former runaway-turned heiress Charli Monroe is
hiding her sordid past and planning a future in Colton, Texas. Attending the local college for
a degree in social work, she intends to raise cattle on her newly purchased
ranch, which she plans to open as a home for troubled teens. Only a few
glitches—the Victorian mansion is crumbling, the barn needs a roof, and her
oilman neighbor wants more than friendship. When she meets Dylan Quinn, Charli
is willing to take a chance on the town drunk to help her rebuild the rundown
ranch.
Dylan has his demons, too. The former Special Forces commander can’t
get past his ex-wife’s betrayal and the botched mission that left him with much
more than a bad limp. Certain the greedy oilman next door to Charli wants much
more than just her heart, Dylan’s even willing to stop drinking in order to protect
her.
When things get dangerous and secrets of the past are revealed, is he
only looking out for his new employer, or is she the new start he so
desperately needs?
Excerpt:
“Ferguson, what are you doing here?” Dylan barked.
Leon ambled toward them on the stone path. “I’m saving a
young maiden from torment. What are you doing here, playing the part of the
devil?”
“I’m Miss Monroe’s new manager.” The deadly edge of his
voice matched the flintiness of his eyes. “If there’s anyone to save the young
maiden from, it’s you.”
“Mr. Quinn, please.” She turned to Leon. “Leon, is there
something I can do for you?”
He smiled, showing off perfect white teeth in a face
handsome enough to belong to an actor. “I was just passing by on my way home
and decided to stop. How are the boys working out?”
Dylan’s stance widened and his hands flexed at his sides.
“What boys?”
“Charli and I have entered into a business arrangement.”
She lost the battle with the urge to wrap her arms around
herself. As much as she appreciated Leon’s kindness, respected him, and was
even a little attracted to him, something about him didn’t sit right with her.
He represented her peers in the community. According to Mrs. Pratt, besides the
Cartwrights, she and Leon were undoubtedly the wealthiest residents in the
county. No one in Colton could learn about her past. It would ruin her, and
Leon, no doubt, had the means to dig up the dirt.
“Really?” Dylan stepped closer to her in a protective
manner. Whiskey tainted his breath as the warmth of the exhalations tickled her
cheek. “What kind of business arrangement?”
She could protect herself. Dylan Quinn wasn’t any safer than
Leon Ferguson. Stepping away from him, she forced her arms to her sides. “Mr.
Quinn, I can handle this.”
She faced Leon. “I’m amazed by how much the men got done
since starting on Monday. The foreman told me last evening they’d be reseeding
another fifty acres for hay this morning. And they have the corrals fixed and
started on the fencing in the north pasture.”
“Good, good.” He glanced at Dylan. “I’ll be going, unless
you need a more reliable exterminator. I couldn’t help but overhear about your
snake infestation. I can give you the name of the company that has gotten rid
of the snakes in our lakes over on Oak Springs for years.”
Although he presented the perfect solution, she didn’t the
like way Leon had looked at Dylan as he said the word exterminator. “No,
Mr. Quinn is quite capable of getting rid of the snake.”
“Oh, I’m sure he is.” Leon tipped his hat. “Let me know if
there’s anything else I can do for you, Charli.” Dylan’s jaw tightened as his
uncle glanced at him. “It’s good to see you up among the living again.”
Leon headed back to his Porsche. With no pretense of
lowering his voice, Dylan said, “Now, there’s a snake no one wants in their
garden.”
Upon hearing the jibe, Leon’s shoulders jerked in
mid-stride.
Rattled by Leon’s attention and the snake fiasco, she turned
on Dylan. “You aren’t off the hook. I want those snakes gone.”
“We’ll see.”
“I hate snakes.” She shuddered and put her hands on her
hips. “Maybe I should have asked him who the exterminator is.”
A.Q. - Can you share
an interesting behind the scenes tidbit about your story?
S.W.E. - The original title of the book was “Butterfly”, which
reflected how I came up with the story after watching a butterfly hatch from
its cocoon, and the theme of changing into something better which is heavy in
the plot of the book. But my editor said, (rightfully so) “Butterfly” would
never suit for a western title. So, she suggested trying to tie the books
together with a common word in the title. I came up with “gambling” because the
history of the three main families in the books are tied to three gamblers who
won the county land in a poker game. Within a few minutes I had titles for all
six books---Gambling On A Secret,
Gambling On A Heart (releasing 9/2013), Gambling
On A Dream, Gambling On A Wish, Gambling On A Song, and Gambling On A Lady.
A.Q. - What is your
favorite part of the story writing process?
S.W.E. - Believe it or not, but I love the revision/editing process.
I find writing the first draft painful at times, but I love to edit and polish
that horrible rough draft into a book.
A.Q. - Writing can be
such an isolated enterprise. Yet, I’m sure there are people who have helped,
guided or inspired you along the way to becoming a published author. Could you
tell us about one of them and how they helped you?
S.W.E. - There are several people who stand out, but my very good
friends and critique partners D’Ann Lindun, Martha Ramirez and Carol Grosser
have been wonderful and helped shape the writer I am today. They each bring
something different to my writing and I value their opinions greatly
A.Q. - What are you
working on now/next?
S.W.E. - Right now, I’m working on two projects at once—book 3 of the
Colton Gamblers called Gambling On A
Dream and a standalone I plan to shop around to agents called A Family for Jesse. Both are
contemporary western romantic suspenses.
Now for the S.A.T.
portion of the interview:
Fill in the blank –
If I were a villain,
I would have __cute little puppies and kittens__ for minions to deliver my wrath because __everyone loves puppies
and kittens—so they are the perfect Trojan Horse__.
(And remember, sea monkeys are already spoken for. Mostly)
(And remember, sea monkeys are already spoken for. Mostly)
Sea Monkeys are to ____________
as zombie stinkbugs are to ________________.
I have no freakin’ idea!!!! Sorry.
I have no freakin’ idea!!!! Sorry.
A.Q. - Please tell us
where we can find out more about you and where we can buy your books.
Sara
Walter Ellwood is an award winning author whose novel Gambling On A Secret
was named by bestselling author Carolyn Brown in the Happy
Ever After Blog on USA Today as one of her
favorite romances of 2012. Although Sara has long ago left the farm for the
glamour of the big town, she draws on her experiences growing up on a small
hobby farm in West Central Pennsylvania to write her stories. She’s been
married to her college sweetheart for nearly 20 years, and they have two
teenagers and one very spoiled rescue cat named Penny. She longs to visit the
places she writes about and jokes she’s a cowgirl at heart stuck in
Pennsylvania suburbia.
She also
writes paranormal romantic suspense under the pen name of Cera duBois.
Buy Links:
Author links:
Website: http://www.sarawalterellwood.com
A.Q. - Thanks again
for stopping in!
You bet!!!
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