Overwhelmed - #WritersLife 12 Results

Hey Everyone. Time for an Insecure Writer's Support Group LAMENT...

Does it seem like I'm always complaining that I wish I had more time to write and blog? Well, that was nothing compared to what's happening these days. I like my job, even though it takes up most of my waking hours. I'm so swamped! Then add on several changes and dealing with some frustrating situations that have come up all at once, and I can barely fit in any writing at all.

Like, I really wanted to get a story submitted to the IWSG ANTHOLOGY CONTEST. I tried so hard to get it done and came very close, but I just didn't have enough time to finish. (fitting since the theme was time)

I also feel like I'm neglecting my duties to my next release: DISPOSAL on NOV 14th. I've barely planned anything. I'm usually so organized, but lately I feel so behind as I rush around trying to get to everything. I've already cut back to the minimum on blogging and turned off my social media notifications a while ago... Seems like all I do is tutor and grade papers and laundry - don't forget the laundry...

Once this job is through, I know I'll have some time to work on writing, but I'm already filling it with appointments and other things I've been putting off. Not to mention Christmas is looming!

That felt good. Sometimes a good cry helps let the stress out...

Don't worry. I'll carry on and make it through. Just needed to vent.

How about you? How are things going in your life? Managing?

Now for some GOOD NEWS!

I'm so glad I took the time to do the WEST VIRGINIA BOOK FESTIVAL with my steady book event buddies, Elizabeth Seckman and Ashley Chappell-Peeples! Also met some other savvy writers, including Darin Kennedy - a fellow Curiosity Quills writer. Had a lovely time. And sold many books!

And here are the scintillating results from my Writer's Life Survey #12:

Which of these spine-tingling genres do you like the most?

Have you written any horror or scary stories?

How about a mystery/suspense/thriller?

Ever been to an inspirational place for a murder scene?

• There are some old buildings and castles in England that would be great locations.
• Just send me out after dark alone and my mind runs wild
• I've been camping a few places that had that vibe.
• Lots of back country roads
• Any place can make a great murder scene!
• Hiking in the Grand Canyon. Could only imagine the stuff that goes on/has gone on in those canyons!

Well, that was fun! Hope you had a Happy Halloween and got some of your favorite candy!

Thanks to all those who played!

Next month, since I'll be releasing DISPOSAL on NOV 14th - I'll have a special survey to go with the release party. Still time to sign up if you'd like to host a post or give me a shout or read an ARC copy for review.

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Also wanted to give a shout out for FULL DARK - What happens in the dark will come to light.

FULL DARK is a collection of eleven short works with impressive depth and range. Twisted tales of ghosts, villains, and the paranormal await you—mystery, heinous fantasy, and pure suspense. Acclaimed and award-winning authors as well as a few talented newcomers have joined forces to be your guide. Venture into the dark if you dare.

Just A Matter of Time by Loni Townsend
Forerunner by David Powers King
Taking Care of You by Carrie Butler
The Apartment by Lisa Buie-Collard
The Caricature by Nick Wilford
Shifting Sands by Elizabeth Seckman
Shadows Falling on Rainbows by Celeste Holloway
Meringue, Murder or Marzipan by Tonja Drecker
Haunted Lake by Michelle Athy
Soul Coin by Laura Rich
Retribution by Melissa Maygrove

FULL DARK is a benefit anthology. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Gary Sinise Foundation, an organization that does many wonderful things for our country's active military, its veterans, and the countless first responders who sacrifice so much to keep us safe.

Goodreads --- Amazon

Gary Sinise Foundation

Published by Obsidian Books

PS - Is anyone out there doing NANOWRIMO this November? If so, GOOD LUCK!!

#WritersLife Survey 12 - Writing is Scary!

I feel really lame this year. No pumpkins, no fall decor, no Halloween decorations... As my boys keep getting older, they don't care about these things as much. The wonder and excitement is gone to sarcastic teenage apathy. Ugh.

Ah well. I still have pumpkin flavored everything and candy to give out. Halloween is what you make it, right? And I have this fun-filled spooky survey treat for you guys... enjoy!



Thanks for playing! I love finding out who likes what and sharing it with everyone.
Hope your October is full of bone-chilling thrills and tasty treats!

PS - My quarterly newsletter came out this month AND Thanks to those signing up to with my form for DISPOSAL's release coming up November 14. I might have to forego a survey for November... we shall see.

Vanished! #IWSG and #WritersLife Survey Results

I want to express heartfelt grief, sending hope and prayers to all those affected by the recent tragedies around the world. Hurricanes and psychotic terrorism are running rampant! But it strengthens my faith in humanity to see so many people working together to help others.


Now, on to less important drivel...

October? Really? Time has vanished again...
Well, I'm working again, so time is flying and I'm overbooked. I keep chugging along and that's fine with me. But I miss blogging around like I used to. I was so happy to be a hostess last month--it forced me to visit, and I so enjoyed it!

This month for IWSG, I'm dealing with change. I don't like change all that much. I deal with it, but I don't really like it. I like sticking with my old phone, my old computer, and all my old ways of doing things (I hate online banking - too many glitches and cyber-thieves!). If it ain't broke... But life moves on and we have to adjust if we want to succeed, whether we like it or not sometimes. The changes in my life are still up in the air too. We are planning to move soon, but we aren't sure where we want to go. Lots of things up in the air. I'm sure we'll be fine, but the stress of it all is starting to wear me down.

Anyone else resistant to change??


Moving on... Here are the results of my Writer's Life Survey #11 - Getting into Character

Who was your first main character?

A Characterful Word Cloud

Do you normally write characters the same gender/sex as you?

Do your characters have backstories?

Do you identify with any of your characters?

Well, I hope you enjoyed the survey results. Can you relate?
And how do you deal with change?

PS - I'm doing a day of class presentations to some 7th graders on Monday about VOICE - Any advice you think I should pass on? And wish me luck!

BTW - If you're interested in helping me spread the word about DISPOSAL - Pop Travel #3 coming out in November, here's a link to the FORM.

Thanks, y'all!!