I received a call from the radiologist this morning with the results from the biopsy: I have a mucocele-like lesion which is benign and not atypical. He said that two courses of action are available: be referred to a surgeon for consultation and have it excised or opt for "close" monitoring. I've already received a phone call from my referring physician's office. I'll be referred on to a surgeon at the hospital.
I've never heard of a "mucocele-like lesion," which after looking it up makes sense. It's considered rare. Go figure. I took comfort in that the radiologist said that because the lesion is small, it's very likely they took enough of the tissue to be accurate in their findings. After reading about these things, I have a pretty good idea the surgeon will suggest having it excised. While that's not the best of news, it's so much better than the alternative.
I guess I've created a mini-diary here of my medical procedures. The next step is the surgeon's visit.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Not exactly what I'd planned on for Christmas
What started out as a routine yearly mammogram has morphed into what's called a "vacuum assisted core needle biopsy." I'm used to getting the typical "everything is fine" letter in the mail about a week after my mammograms. I hadn't gotten anything and really didn't pay that much attention. Then I received a phone call, saying they'd like me to come back in.
I had myself convinced that the mammogram tech had screwed up or that a previous surgical scar threw them off. But when I went in, I was told, "oh, no, this is in a different area entirely." And then that it was "larger on this year's mammogram." I thought, heck, I didn't know it was there last year. I was scheduled for an ultrasound on the 10th. The ultrasound tech said they were pretty sure it was a cyst and nothing further would probably be needed, but she'd have to consult with the radiologist. She comes back a few minutes later to say I needed to be scheduled for an aspiration.
Today, I went in for the aspiration. Of course they couldn't get fluid from the cyst after going from one needle to a larger one. Hence, the "vacuum assisted core needle biopsy." Um. This was one honkin' big needle. I swear it looked like a darning needle. And what was weird was it actually sounded like a vacuum when they took out the various tissue samples.
The assistant to the doctors didn't help matters by saying, "I wasn't prepared for a biopsy today" in a cheerful voice. Then again cheerfully chirping, "Merry Christmas" after she finished with my mammogram to make sure this little clip was in place to show where they'd done the biopsy. I wanted to smack her upside the head.
So, now I get to wait until Monday or Tuesday of next week for the biopsy results. They assured me that it could still be a cyst. I am taking comfort in that they did take numerous samples at least.
I'm trying to be optimistic. Phyllis was saying that the waiting is what's hard. And even though I'm sore now and the biopsy wasn't a pleasant procedure at all, I do agree that the procedure is much easier than the waiting.
I think I'll try to do some writing in the next couple of days and over the weekend to get my mind off of things. Maybe Amy, Lisa, Frankie, and Stacy can help me forget about my troubles, if only for a little while.
Anyway, may you all have a very Happy Holiday season. And may your new year be full of hope, promise, and joy.
I had myself convinced that the mammogram tech had screwed up or that a previous surgical scar threw them off. But when I went in, I was told, "oh, no, this is in a different area entirely." And then that it was "larger on this year's mammogram." I thought, heck, I didn't know it was there last year. I was scheduled for an ultrasound on the 10th. The ultrasound tech said they were pretty sure it was a cyst and nothing further would probably be needed, but she'd have to consult with the radiologist. She comes back a few minutes later to say I needed to be scheduled for an aspiration.
Today, I went in for the aspiration. Of course they couldn't get fluid from the cyst after going from one needle to a larger one. Hence, the "vacuum assisted core needle biopsy." Um. This was one honkin' big needle. I swear it looked like a darning needle. And what was weird was it actually sounded like a vacuum when they took out the various tissue samples.
The assistant to the doctors didn't help matters by saying, "I wasn't prepared for a biopsy today" in a cheerful voice. Then again cheerfully chirping, "Merry Christmas" after she finished with my mammogram to make sure this little clip was in place to show where they'd done the biopsy. I wanted to smack her upside the head.
So, now I get to wait until Monday or Tuesday of next week for the biopsy results. They assured me that it could still be a cyst. I am taking comfort in that they did take numerous samples at least.
I'm trying to be optimistic. Phyllis was saying that the waiting is what's hard. And even though I'm sore now and the biopsy wasn't a pleasant procedure at all, I do agree that the procedure is much easier than the waiting.
I think I'll try to do some writing in the next couple of days and over the weekend to get my mind off of things. Maybe Amy, Lisa, Frankie, and Stacy can help me forget about my troubles, if only for a little while.
Anyway, may you all have a very Happy Holiday season. And may your new year be full of hope, promise, and joy.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Great trip to Atlanta and Charis....
The book signing today at Charis in Atlanta in celebration of their 36th birthday was a blast. It was good seeing everyone again at the bookstore. I also purchased books and enjoyed talking to Jane and the other authors. This will probably be my last book signing/reading until spring with the winter weather settling in here soon.
The drive down was beautiful. Since we visited Jane first, we took a different route and drove through Kentucky and the mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina. When Phyllis took over driving about halfway down, I was able to enjoy the view from the passenger seat. I think the word I kept repeating was, "wow." And when we hit North Carolina and the mountains there, Phyllis said it best: "Truly the magnificence of God."
When I wasn't driving, I worked through my latest book and should be sending it into Jane and Em this week. Sometimes, this is the hardest part of writing...knowing when to let go. But it's time for Eleanor to tell her story to someone other than me.
It's nice to get away, but it's always a good feeling to sleep in our own bed again. We leave tomorrow morning for Indy. I know this sounds a little Dorothy-ish, but there really is "no place like home."
The drive down was beautiful. Since we visited Jane first, we took a different route and drove through Kentucky and the mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina. When Phyllis took over driving about halfway down, I was able to enjoy the view from the passenger seat. I think the word I kept repeating was, "wow." And when we hit North Carolina and the mountains there, Phyllis said it best: "Truly the magnificence of God."
When I wasn't driving, I worked through my latest book and should be sending it into Jane and Em this week. Sometimes, this is the hardest part of writing...knowing when to let go. But it's time for Eleanor to tell her story to someone other than me.
It's nice to get away, but it's always a good feeling to sleep in our own bed again. We leave tomorrow morning for Indy. I know this sounds a little Dorothy-ish, but there really is "no place like home."
Thursday, October 28, 2010
A good feeling
"Finishing" a book is always a good feeling, but it especially feels good on this one. Because of the nature of this story, I thought the best way to approach it was to write in third and first person. I wasn't sure if it'd work, but going back through it recently, I believe I've pulled it off. I'd said in an earlier post that one of the main characters, Eleanor, was in control of this one, and that never changed. She'd speak to me sometimes when I was at work and I knew by the time I got home, I'd be writing long into the night. Other times, when I wanted to write, she was silent, playing hard to get.
It's a romance. Actually two romances wrapped into one book. I love writing the Playing for First series because I love baseball. But this one's touched my heart. I hope it touches readers in the same way.
It's a romance. Actually two romances wrapped into one book. I love writing the Playing for First series because I love baseball. But this one's touched my heart. I hope it touches readers in the same way.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Watching my wife go through a rough summer...
Phyllis broke her foot in two places on Memorial Day, the day before we were to leave for Orlando and the GCLS Conference. After many tears and discussion and after a visit to the doctor's office, we realized she couldn't make it to Orlando and be comfortable. Off to Cleveland she went for her family to watch over her for the week and I went to Florida, miserable and lost without her. After trying the boot and hoping it'd heal both breaks, she finally consented to surgery to insert a screw on July 20. Another eight weeks ensued and today she received the glorious news that she's free from the boot. The foot is now 90% healed. She'll have to be careful and it'll be back to the doctor/surgeon in three weeks for a final look-see, but she can now wear two shoes and not just one.
It's been a summer of lessons for her in patience and acceptance that I didn't mind taking care of her. That I love her and I wouldn't have it any other way. She's learned that she can't do everything. I know she went through some depression--she's never had anything like this happen before. She's never been knocked off her feet--literally. Phyllis is a "go go go" woman. It's hard to hear "slow slow slow" and accept it.
But through it all, this has made us even closer. I didn't think that was possible. Life sometimes throws these things at you, though, and God teaches you that there's an even deeper love than either of you knew was possible.
I just thank God that she's healed.
It's been a summer of lessons for her in patience and acceptance that I didn't mind taking care of her. That I love her and I wouldn't have it any other way. She's learned that she can't do everything. I know she went through some depression--she's never had anything like this happen before. She's never been knocked off her feet--literally. Phyllis is a "go go go" woman. It's hard to hear "slow slow slow" and accept it.
But through it all, this has made us even closer. I didn't think that was possible. Life sometimes throws these things at you, though, and God teaches you that there's an even deeper love than either of you knew was possible.
I just thank God that she's healed.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
When a character takes control of a book...
Fellow authors understand the phenomenon when a character decides when, where, how much, and what you'll write. With the other novels I've written (Playing for First, Come Back to Me, and Two for the Show), I've not had a character take over as much as this character, Eleanor, in my latest novel, a romance. In the book, she is telling her story to two other main characters and in the course of setting the pace with them, she's doing the same with me. There will be a night where she's very talkative and I'll write 3,000+ words. This will be followed by two nights of 2,000+ words and then maybe two nights where she has nothing to say at all. And it's not that I'm slacking off in my writing. I've never done that before and doubt that I ever will. It's that she doesn't want to tell me her story one night, just as she's told the two main characters to "come back tomorrow morning."
It's a fascinating process. I've written 33,500 words so far, know where I'm going in the book, but also am very where that Eleanor will only lead me there in her good time.
Those who aren't writers may think all of this sounds a little far fetched--"Right. Your characters talk to you. Sure." But as I said, those who do write will know exactly what I'm saying.
Sometimes Eleanor frustrates me, but I only hope that when the book is done, she'll be pleased with the finished project. She's such a remarkable woman, I wouldn't want to disappoint her.
It's a fascinating process. I've written 33,500 words so far, know where I'm going in the book, but also am very where that Eleanor will only lead me there in her good time.
Those who aren't writers may think all of this sounds a little far fetched--"Right. Your characters talk to you. Sure." But as I said, those who do write will know exactly what I'm saying.
Sometimes Eleanor frustrates me, but I only hope that when the book is done, she'll be pleased with the finished project. She's such a remarkable woman, I wouldn't want to disappoint her.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
What do you want to be when you grow up?
The words "President of the United States" never slipped passed my lips. And neither did the words, "daughter of the President of the United States." Of course my dad being in the Air Force with no aspirations at political office helped color my response. My mom never wanted to go into politics either. But I wonder how hard that life is, being under constant scrutiny as Chelsea Clinton has been since her father was President and then her mother went on to the Senate, a run at the White House, and now Secretary of State. What about this weekend and the wedding? I have to admire Bill and Hillary for trying to make it as "normal" as possible for her. And to those out there bemoaning the money spent on the wedding...get a life! It's their only daughter and they have the money. I say let her have the wedding she wants and to hell with what anyone else thinks.
Phyllis has been so cute all weekend, though, trying to find anything and everything she can on the wedding coverage. I had to tease her a little.
But back to the original question..."what do you want to be when you grow up?" My stock answer for much of my youth until I reached high school was "an artist." Now, I can't remember the last time I picked up a pencil or a piece of charcoal to sketch anything. Which is a shame. I used to get so caught up in my drawings, holing myself up in my room for hours on end, bent over my work until my neck and shoulders screamed at me to stop. Then life began to speed by and instead, I returned to writing. Don't get me wrong, I'd always enjoyed it and had since grade school. I became more serious about writing in high school and later in college. I now find that I hole myself up in my room for another kind of art, one I enjoy once I get swept up in a story and allow the characters to spirit me away into their lives, whispering in my ear as to what happens next.
It's still an art, yes. But that yearning returns sometimes to pick up that pencil or piece of charcoal and lose myself into a world of lines, shades, and shadows. One of these days I'll listen again to that muse when she taps on my shoulder.
She's waiting....
Phyllis has been so cute all weekend, though, trying to find anything and everything she can on the wedding coverage. I had to tease her a little.
But back to the original question..."what do you want to be when you grow up?" My stock answer for much of my youth until I reached high school was "an artist." Now, I can't remember the last time I picked up a pencil or a piece of charcoal to sketch anything. Which is a shame. I used to get so caught up in my drawings, holing myself up in my room for hours on end, bent over my work until my neck and shoulders screamed at me to stop. Then life began to speed by and instead, I returned to writing. Don't get me wrong, I'd always enjoyed it and had since grade school. I became more serious about writing in high school and later in college. I now find that I hole myself up in my room for another kind of art, one I enjoy once I get swept up in a story and allow the characters to spirit me away into their lives, whispering in my ear as to what happens next.
It's still an art, yes. But that yearning returns sometimes to pick up that pencil or piece of charcoal and lose myself into a world of lines, shades, and shadows. One of these days I'll listen again to that muse when she taps on my shoulder.
She's waiting....
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Update on the Minneapolis/True Colors book signing
Sorry to say that Cathy Rowlands, Liz Ridley, and I won't be making it to Minneapolis and True Colors this time around (August 7) for various reasons, some of which are health-related. Phyllis's surgery on her foot was scheduled for later than we anticipated and would cut it too close to our travel up to the Twin Cities. But the three of us do hope to get together sometime soon for a joint venture. Probably in Milwaukee and *crossing fingers* maybe in the fall. I'll keep you posted.
In the meantime, back to my latest and writing....
In the meantime, back to my latest and writing....
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Enjoyable weekend with my friend and Phyllis
A very good friend came for a visit here with Phyllis and me for the weekend. We had fun talking writing and Reds baseball. Speaking of Reds baseball, they looked good for the open of their roadtrip, then fell apart, losing four straight in Philly. *sigh* I think they're tired.
On the writing front, I'm 10,000 words into my next novel, a romance. I know I won't come up with 50,000 words for the month (our BABA writing group is doing a JulyWriMo). But as long as we're all doing just a little, it's a plus.
Hey, as a test as to who all who may be reading this blog (because I have no idea if it's anyone but me lol), write me at frodobaggypants@gmail.com for a chance to win either an autographed copy of my latest, Come Back to Me, or of my debut, Playing for First. The cutoff will be Saturday night, July 17, at 9:00 PM EST. If you have both of these books, then how about early dibs on Two for the Show, the sequel to Playing for First? You won't get the book for a while, since editing hasn't started, but I'll definitely send whoever wins a copy if that's the one that interests them. I'll take the names of those who enter and put them in a hat. Two lucky winners win the book of their choice!
Time to go get some relaxing reading in for the night.
On the writing front, I'm 10,000 words into my next novel, a romance. I know I won't come up with 50,000 words for the month (our BABA writing group is doing a JulyWriMo). But as long as we're all doing just a little, it's a plus.
Hey, as a test as to who all who may be reading this blog (because I have no idea if it's anyone but me lol), write me at frodobaggypants@gmail.com for a chance to win either an autographed copy of my latest, Come Back to Me, or of my debut, Playing for First. The cutoff will be Saturday night, July 17, at 9:00 PM EST. If you have both of these books, then how about early dibs on Two for the Show, the sequel to Playing for First? You won't get the book for a while, since editing hasn't started, but I'll definitely send whoever wins a copy if that's the one that interests them. I'll take the names of those who enter and put them in a hat. Two lucky winners win the book of their choice!
Time to go get some relaxing reading in for the night.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Happy Fourth of July weekend to all you Yanks!
To everyone else around the world, it's still Fourth of July weekend, but it's not quite the same. I hope you still have a nice weekend, though. That is if there are people around the world who read this... LOL! Talk about ego!
I'm sitting here with Phyllis after working on "work work" today (formatting articles for the law journal I work for) and she flipped channels. Guess what! We found a disaster movie!! Yay!! Hahahahahaha! I love these things and have no idea why except they're so mindless and silly. This is called "NYC: Tornado Terror." Tee hee. And why is it the diasters (tidal waves, hurricanes, tornados, etc.) always hit the major American landmarks?? For example, in this one, the tornado just wacked off the arm of the Statue of Liberty.
ANYway...a nice, relaxing Saturday afternoon with Phyllis. Unfortunately, we found out she has to have surgery after all. This week we should find out when.
Enjoy your weekend...whether it's a long holiday weekend or simply a weekend!
I'm sitting here with Phyllis after working on "work work" today (formatting articles for the law journal I work for) and she flipped channels. Guess what! We found a disaster movie!! Yay!! Hahahahahaha! I love these things and have no idea why except they're so mindless and silly. This is called "NYC: Tornado Terror." Tee hee. And why is it the diasters (tidal waves, hurricanes, tornados, etc.) always hit the major American landmarks?? For example, in this one, the tornado just wacked off the arm of the Statue of Liberty.
ANYway...a nice, relaxing Saturday afternoon with Phyllis. Unfortunately, we found out she has to have surgery after all. This week we should find out when.
Enjoy your weekend...whether it's a long holiday weekend or simply a weekend!
Friday, July 2, 2010
I'm a guest "chatter" on Beth Wylde's yahoo group...
...this afternoon and tonight from 7:00 to 9:00 PM EST. Follow this link:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bethwylde/, join the group and post a question. I'm giving away autographed copies of Playing for First and Come Back to Me. Hope to see you there sometime this afternoon or evening!
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bethwylde/, join the group and post a question. I'm giving away autographed copies of Playing for First and Come Back to Me. Hope to see you there sometime this afternoon or evening!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
I'll be on Lara Zielinsky's radio blog show tomorrow night
The show starts at 10:30 PM. I know it's late, but like I said in a forum, darn it, we're worth it! HAHAHAHAHA! I'm soooo funny. Anyway...here's the link:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lara-zielinsky
I do hope you can listen in, or if it's too late for you, please listen to the recording the next day. I enjoyed my last interview with Lara in September. This time, we're discussing Come Back to Me and will probably also discuss Two for the Show and what I'm working on right now.
I had a blast in Orlando at the GCLS Conference, but it was a muted blast. Phyllis broke her foot the day before we were to leave and was unable to make it. I really didn't want to go and wouldn't have if her family hadn't looked after her for the week. It looks like she'll be in a walking boot for 6-8 weeks. So, please send out good thoughts to her.
I hope to write later to talk about the Conference in more detail.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lara-zielinsky
I do hope you can listen in, or if it's too late for you, please listen to the recording the next day. I enjoyed my last interview with Lara in September. This time, we're discussing Come Back to Me and will probably also discuss Two for the Show and what I'm working on right now.
I had a blast in Orlando at the GCLS Conference, but it was a muted blast. Phyllis broke her foot the day before we were to leave and was unable to make it. I really didn't want to go and wouldn't have if her family hadn't looked after her for the week. It looks like she'll be in a walking boot for 6-8 weeks. So, please send out good thoughts to her.
I hope to write later to talk about the Conference in more detail.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
"Come Back to Me" now available as an ebook!
For those ebook readers out there, you can now order Come Back to Me through Bella at this link: http://www.bellabooks.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=bella&Product_Code=9780982285855e.
If you do get the book, which I hope you will, please let me know what you think. All of us author folk love to hear from readers.
Phyllis and I are preparing for our trip to Orlando and the GCLS Conference next week. Poor Buddy has to go to the doggy hotel at the vet's office, but it's for the best. Got my tux for the awards program. I keep telling everyone, I probably won't win, but I'll look damn good sitting there. LOL!!
Time to go to bed and get some rest.
If you do get the book, which I hope you will, please let me know what you think. All of us author folk love to hear from readers.
Phyllis and I are preparing for our trip to Orlando and the GCLS Conference next week. Poor Buddy has to go to the doggy hotel at the vet's office, but it's for the best. Got my tux for the awards program. I keep telling everyone, I probably won't win, but I'll look damn good sitting there. LOL!!
Time to go to bed and get some rest.
Friday, May 14, 2010
"Come Back to Me" released today!
Emily Reed, my publisher, made the announcements on all of the forums! Come Back to Me is now available for purchase through Blue Feather Books, http://www.bluefeatherbooks.com, and Bella Books, http://www.bellabooks.com. It will be available soon from Charis Books and More, one of the few feminist bookstores remaining in the country and as an e-book soon from Bella. You can find those links once they're available via my website.
It's a special feeling having another book published. I kept looking at my "Available Now" link on my website. It's slowly sinking in....
Sitting here tonight watching the Reds losing 4-2 to the Cards. I hope the Reds can at least take 2 of 3 out of this series. I hate having them having all of this momentum only to let it die when they play St. Louis. grrrrrr....
Okay, time to check in on the characters to my next book and see what they have in store for me.
It's a special feeling having another book published. I kept looking at my "Available Now" link on my website. It's slowly sinking in....
Sitting here tonight watching the Reds losing 4-2 to the Cards. I hope the Reds can at least take 2 of 3 out of this series. I hate having them having all of this momentum only to let it die when they play St. Louis. grrrrrr....
Okay, time to check in on the characters to my next book and see what they have in store for me.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Had a great time in Atlanta and a shameless request :-)
We had a fantastic time in Atlanta. The reading went well. The weather was poor...it was the day/night that the tornadoes ripped through Mississippi. It rained Friday night into Sunday, when we were heading home. lol The crowd wasn't huge at Charis, but it was still nice to meet new people and practice reading. It was so nice to meet a friend I made through another forum. We had chatted about Playing for First and writing. Phyllis and I met her and her partner and we had dinner with them, Mavis Applewater, Mary Phillips, and Sherry Mills. It was fun reading with Jane and Mavis. The next time I read will be in Orlando at the GCLS Conference.
Speaking of the GCLS Conference...nice segue, huh? lol Any of you out there who are GCLS members who liked Playing for First, get your vote in sometime before May 18th. It made the shortlist, but a new twist this year allows members to vote again on the nine finalists.
There, I've made my shameless plug for my own book. We joke that we're shameless self promoters as authors--this is especially true in the lesbian publishing world. So, in the ultimate self promotion, VOTE FOR MY BOOK! hahahahahaha!
Time to get back to writing for the evening....
Speaking of the GCLS Conference...nice segue, huh? lol Any of you out there who are GCLS members who liked Playing for First, get your vote in sometime before May 18th. It made the shortlist, but a new twist this year allows members to vote again on the nine finalists.
There, I've made my shameless plug for my own book. We joke that we're shameless self promoters as authors--this is especially true in the lesbian publishing world. So, in the ultimate self promotion, VOTE FOR MY BOOK! hahahahahaha!
Time to get back to writing for the evening....
Thursday, April 22, 2010
"Playing for First" chosen as a finalist for the Ann Bannon Award!
I found out this week that Playing for First was voted by the members of the Golden Crown Literary Society as one of nine finalists for the Ann Bannon Popular Choice Award. The award will be handed out at the GCLS Conference the first week of June in Orlando. I'll give you more info the closer we get to the date, but visit here to check out the Conference: http://www.goldencrown.org/site/index.php/conference-conference. In two weeks, another vote will be held for members to vote on the remaining nine finalists to determine the winner. Heck, I'm flabbergasted to have made the short list!
Anyone in the Atlanta area, please swing by Charis Books and More at 1189 Euclid Avenue NE this Saturday, April 24th at 7:00. Jane Vollbrecht, Mavis Applewater, and I are having a Blue Feather Books shindig, otherwise known as a reading and book signing. lol Jane and Mavis are always fun. Jane was nominated this past week for her book Detours in the Dramatic General Fiction category at the GCLS. Fellow Blue Feather author, Val Brown, is also up for the Ann Bannon Popular Choice Award for her book, In the Works. Pretty darn cool, huh?
I'll be reading from Playing for First and Come Back to Me, scheduled for a May release. I'll also give readers a sneak peek at Two for the Show. We're hoping the weather holds out for us so we get a good turnout.
Hope to see you there!
Anyone in the Atlanta area, please swing by Charis Books and More at 1189 Euclid Avenue NE this Saturday, April 24th at 7:00. Jane Vollbrecht, Mavis Applewater, and I are having a Blue Feather Books shindig, otherwise known as a reading and book signing. lol Jane and Mavis are always fun. Jane was nominated this past week for her book Detours in the Dramatic General Fiction category at the GCLS. Fellow Blue Feather author, Val Brown, is also up for the Ann Bannon Popular Choice Award for her book, In the Works. Pretty darn cool, huh?
I'll be reading from Playing for First and Come Back to Me, scheduled for a May release. I'll also give readers a sneak peek at Two for the Show. We're hoping the weather holds out for us so we get a good turnout.
Hope to see you there!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Cover finalized for "Come Back to Me" AND...
Two for the Show has been accepted for publication. We'll sign the contract soon. Woo hoo!! It's a good day. You can find my new cover on my website, http://www.ckpaynter.com. I'm very pleased in how it turned out. It captures the story perfectly. You'll see once you read it. :-) I should be receiving the PDF version very soon for the final read-through prior to publication. We're getting down to the nitty gritty. I'm anxious and excited for this one to become available.
On another note, I was so excited to see Butler make it all the way to the final game in the NCAA National Men's Basketball Championship. They came within a hair of winning it all. They only graduate two seniors and now that Butler has signed Coach Brad Stevens for the next 12 years, they have a legitimate shot every year to make it. Wow. How great for mid-level teams, huh?
Baseball started this week. WOOOO HOOOO!!! Not sure if this is the Reds' year. I have a feeling they'll finish over .500, but I think it'll take until next year to really make a run for the playoffs. One can always hope and dream though.
Alrighty, time to get back to writing. I've already gotten one chapter finished for my next one, another romance.
On another note, I was so excited to see Butler make it all the way to the final game in the NCAA National Men's Basketball Championship. They came within a hair of winning it all. They only graduate two seniors and now that Butler has signed Coach Brad Stevens for the next 12 years, they have a legitimate shot every year to make it. Wow. How great for mid-level teams, huh?
Baseball started this week. WOOOO HOOOO!!! Not sure if this is the Reds' year. I have a feeling they'll finish over .500, but I think it'll take until next year to really make a run for the playoffs. One can always hope and dream though.
Alrighty, time to get back to writing. I've already gotten one chapter finished for my next one, another romance.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Just submitted "Two for the Show" to Em and Jane
I feel a sense of relief. But also, a sense of loss at giving up one of my "babies." It's a contradiction, I know, but it's one I'm sure a lot of authors share in. I'm pleased with the story and hope that those who read Playing for First will enjoy the continuing saga of Lisa, Frankie, and Amy and the new storyline involving Amy and Stacy. This one's told from both Lisa's and Amy's points of view, which I feel gives it a more fulfilling ride for the reader. I enjoyed writing it. I hope the readers enjoy it and keep in mind that this isn't the end of the story. This is the second in the series. I'll let you know when I hear from my publisher regarding Two for the Show's fate. I have a good feeling, though.
I plan to start on the next book here this week. It'll be a romance. Come Back to Me is still on schedule for a May release. Once the cover is finalized, you'll find it on my Facebook page and website.
Take care, all!
I plan to start on the next book here this week. It'll be a romance. Come Back to Me is still on schedule for a May release. Once the cover is finalized, you'll find it on my Facebook page and website.
Take care, all!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
I love Sunday...
It's usually our day to relax and be home alone together. I've been watching the NCAA tournament games while Phyllis visited Cleveland. She's back and out with Buddy. I plan to work on the Two for the Show edit today. Also, after reading Amy Dawson Robertson's freakin' awesome debut novel, Miles to Go, I'm ready to start on fellow Blue Feather author Erica Lawson's debut, Possessing Morgan. I'm excited about the future of lesbian fiction with such wonderful authors publishing their debuts.
I have a new laptop. I keep joking I did not order it because of the Cincinnati Reds cover, but, um, it was one of my choices when building it through Dell. Sooooooo...I picked out a Reds' cover and paid a little more. lol It's very nice. I've been working on Two for the Show on it and have been reading over the final version of Come Back to Me that is with our line reader. I was excited to see that the laptop came with Chess Titans on it. Yay! I hope I don't let it divert me from my writing. Boo. hahahahaha
Okay...off to TFTS.
I have a new laptop. I keep joking I did not order it because of the Cincinnati Reds cover, but, um, it was one of my choices when building it through Dell. Sooooooo...I picked out a Reds' cover and paid a little more. lol It's very nice. I've been working on Two for the Show on it and have been reading over the final version of Come Back to Me that is with our line reader. I was excited to see that the laptop came with Chess Titans on it. Yay! I hope I don't let it divert me from my writing. Boo. hahahahaha
Okay...off to TFTS.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
A new excerpt to my latest, "Come Back to Me"
Howdy everyone. I have a new snippet to Come Back to Me posted on my website. As a reminder, here is the synopsis: http://www.ckpaynter.com/comingsoon.htm. Here is the newest excerpt, a scene where the two main characters, Angie and Meryl, first meet in college in their creative writing class: http://www.ckpaynter.com/excerptcomebacktome2.html. Let me know what you think.
The second edit is back to my publisher and on to the line reader. It's still on schedule for a May release. Yay!
Okay, time to relax for the rest of the night. Peace to all!
The second edit is back to my publisher and on to the line reader. It's still on schedule for a May release. Yay!
Okay, time to relax for the rest of the night. Peace to all!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
BIG NEWS!! "Playing for First" now available in ebook format
Jane let me know and Emily Reed, my publisher made the annoucements on the various forums, that Playing for First is now available in ebook. You can find it at Bella Books Distribution: http://www.bellabooks.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=bella&Product_Code=9780982285831e.
There is a limited selection of other Blue Feather titles available via Bella Distribution, but more will be added soon. All of my future titles will also be available in ebook format. As always, the book is offered in trade paperback for those of you who still like to hold a book in your hands. I have to admit, I'm old-fashioned that way. I'm sure I'll own a Kindle or some other e-reader in the future, but for now, I enjoy cuddling up with a book that I can turn the pages.
We had a great time visiting friends in Cincinnati this weekend. It was nice to get away and spend a couple of days outside of Indy. But it's also good to get home. I'm very much a homebody and have been my whole life. I love writing, of course, but also read as much as I can in the comfort of my Lazy Girl Chair.
Speaking of which, I think I'll go read now. :-)
There is a limited selection of other Blue Feather titles available via Bella Distribution, but more will be added soon. All of my future titles will also be available in ebook format. As always, the book is offered in trade paperback for those of you who still like to hold a book in your hands. I have to admit, I'm old-fashioned that way. I'm sure I'll own a Kindle or some other e-reader in the future, but for now, I enjoy cuddling up with a book that I can turn the pages.
We had a great time visiting friends in Cincinnati this weekend. It was nice to get away and spend a couple of days outside of Indy. But it's also good to get home. I'm very much a homebody and have been my whole life. I love writing, of course, but also read as much as I can in the comfort of my Lazy Girl Chair.
Speaking of which, I think I'll go read now. :-)
Friday, February 19, 2010
Finished my first edit of "Come Back to Me"
My editor and I talked and I rewrote a few scenes, created a few, cleaned up the inordinate, obsessive love affair I had with adverbs in this one--don't ask me why, couldn't help myself I guess lol--and got it done before my brother got in from Afghanistan so I can visit with him these next couple of weeks. It was so good to see him last night and listen to him play his guitar. I'm taking a break from writing to read some books, ones I've been wanting to read, but haven't had the time with the edit. I started with Starting from Scratch by Georgia Beers. Excellent book, told in the first person. I admire authors who try something new. Her other novels have been told in the third person. Maybe one day, I'll be brave enough to try it. I'm still getting my feet wet, though. lol I'm happy with Come Back to Me. It's still amazing to be living my dream. I thank God, and I thank my wife, Phyllis, who is so patient and giving when I become obsessesed with my writing. We just had a wonderful dinner over at Amici's, an Italian restaurant a few blocks from here. We walked in the cold, but it was so romantic to sit with her and just enjoy her. I said this once on Facebook: I'm so happy, it's scary.
On another note, the Colts lost the Super Bowl. Although I was very disappointed, I was happy for Drew Brees and the city of New Orleans. There's always next year.....
Okay. Off to bed....
On another note, the Colts lost the Super Bowl. Although I was very disappointed, I was happy for Drew Brees and the city of New Orleans. There's always next year.....
Okay. Off to bed....
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
I need to quit making "new year's" promises...
Because so far, I've sucked about getting on here as much as I say I will. ANYway...
I finished my first, second, and will soon be doing my third and "final" read-through of Two for the Show before proposing it to my publisher, Blue Feather Books. I'm anxious to see what Emily Reed and Jane Vollbrecht, my editor, will think of it. I've had two author friends be gracious enough to look at it for me and give me their feedback. So far, so good.
I've written a rough draft of the dreaded synopsis to be included with the m/s. I feel like writing: "Blahblahblah happened. And then blahblahblah. Which was followed by blahblahblah." lol BUT I can't do that...I don't think.
Everything seems to happen so fast these days. It seems like yesterday we were in Orlando attending the Golden Crown Literary Society Conference. Now, in four months, it'll be upon us again. In April, Phyllis and I are headed down to Atlanta to do a reading/signing with Jane and Mavis Applewater at Charis Feminist Bookstore--Saturday, April 24th at 8:00, to be exact. Since I've only done one reading/signing, this will be good practice for me. Also, I'd like to start branching out to various parts of the country for book signings. Of course "like to start" and actually doing are two different things. But now, it looks like I'll be getting something set up in Milwaukee this spring or summer at Outwords Books with Bold Strokes author, C.P. Rowlands. It's in the planning stages. More on that as we get all the details worked out. If you haven't read Rowlands's Lake Effect Snow or Collision Course, please please do so. The woman can write. She has a fervent fan here in Indy in me.
Well, I'm going to reread my synopsis, iron out any wrinkles, and then go through the book one more time before sending it off to Em and Jane. I'm excited about this sequel because I think it's a very good story. If you knew me, you'd know how difficult it is for me to say that about my own writing.
Oh, on another note, how 'bout them COLTS???!!!! I'm again staying away from the hype as much as possible to not make myself a nervous wreck. I'm worried a little about the defense if Freeney can't play, but they're an excellent unit. Very very underrated. I think they'll be playing with a chip on their shoulder. Hopefully I can come back on here next week saying, COLTS WIN! COLTS WIN!!
Time to pay attention to a neglected beagle.
I finished my first, second, and will soon be doing my third and "final" read-through of Two for the Show before proposing it to my publisher, Blue Feather Books. I'm anxious to see what Emily Reed and Jane Vollbrecht, my editor, will think of it. I've had two author friends be gracious enough to look at it for me and give me their feedback. So far, so good.
I've written a rough draft of the dreaded synopsis
Everything seems to happen so fast these days. It seems like yesterday we were in Orlando attending the Golden Crown Literary Society Conference. Now, in four months, it'll be upon us again. In April, Phyllis and I are headed down to Atlanta to do a reading/signing with Jane and Mavis Applewater at Charis Feminist Bookstore--Saturday, April 24th at 8:00, to be exact. Since I've only done one reading/signing, this will be good practice for me. Also, I'd like to start branching out to various parts of the country for book signings. Of course "like to start" and actually doing are two different things. But now, it looks like I'll be getting something set up in Milwaukee this spring or summer at Outwords Books with Bold Strokes author, C.P. Rowlands. It's in the planning stages. More on that as we get all the details worked out. If you haven't read Rowlands's Lake Effect Snow or Collision Course, please please do so. The woman can write. She has a fervent fan here in Indy in me.
Well, I'm going to reread my synopsis, iron out any wrinkles, and then go through the book one more time before sending it off to Em and Jane. I'm excited about this sequel because I think it's a very good story. If you knew me, you'd know how difficult it is for me to say that about my own writing.
Oh, on another note, how 'bout them COLTS???!!!! I'm again staying away from the hype as much as possible to not make myself a nervous wreck. I'm worried a little about the defense if Freeney can't play, but they're an excellent unit. Very very underrated. I think they'll be playing with a chip on their shoulder. Hopefully I can come back on here next week saying, COLTS WIN! COLTS WIN!!
Time to pay attention to a neglected beagle.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Finished with the first draft of "Two for the Show"
I know there's no writing, only rewriting, but tonight I'm allowing myself the luxury of feeling very good about the accomplishment. I started the book in NaNoWriMo. I had to take a break after a month of intense writing, but began again later in December. This weekend, I was more earnest in my writing. Today, it was one of those obsessive, "I have to finish this" days. I worked on it for over seven hours straight. The story ending was right there in my brain, ready to make the move down to my fingers and onto the computer screen. I'm sore. I'm tired. My vision is blurry. But it was all worth it. I'll step away for tonight, but will start with the first total read-through tomorrow--I haven't done that in weeks. Snippets and chapters, yes. Entire book, no. I only hope everyone enjoys Amy's journey in this one. It's much more her story. Lisa and Frankie are there for support, of course, and they have their own issues to deal with. But Amy and Stacy spoke to me more in this sequel. And once your characters take you by the hand and lead you, you can't say no.
I know I promised to get better about writing once a week. I'll reiterate it here. I'd like to keep a weekly blog of how the rewriting's going.
Aside from my book, HOW 'BOUT THEM COLTS???!!!!! It wouldn't have mattered who won the Chargers/Jets game. Either team scares me since the Colts are so close to going back to the Super Bowl. I'll try to limit reading about them this week. It'll only drive me crazy.
I know I promised to get better about writing once a week. I'll reiterate it here. I'd like to keep a weekly blog of how the rewriting's going.
Aside from my book, HOW 'BOUT THEM COLTS???!!!!! It wouldn't have mattered who won the Chargers/Jets game. Either team scares me since the Colts are so close to going back to the Super Bowl. I'll try to limit reading about them this week. It'll only drive me crazy.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
What a way to start a New Year...
...by finding out this past week Playing for First was chosen as one of Curve Magazine's Novels to Start Out the New Year: http://www.curvemag.com/Curve-Magazine/Web-Articles-2008/Novels-to-Start-Out-the-New-Year/. It's an honor to be named in the same list as Ellen Hart, Lee Lynch, and Jane Fletcher, as well as fellow Blue Feather author, Joan Opyr, and the other fine authors. I have Ellen's The Mirror and the Mask, but need to catch up on the other Jane Lawless mysteries. I also have Lee Lynch's Beggar of Love. I've heard great things about both. And thank you to fellow author Amy Dawson Robertson. I'd never known about this without her posting the link on my Facebook page. I need to stay more in the loop!
If you like a good crime/law mystery with a dose of romance, definitely read Carsen Taite's It Should Be a Crime, one of the books on the list. Since I work at the law school here in Indy with second- and third-year law students, the storyline with the law school and professor was fun to read.
We had a restful, quiet New Year's here at home. Do you know how to spell daiquiri?? I sure didn't. lol Sooooo...I've learned a new spelling for the new decade. Yay! I'll have to drop this in a book sometime with a joke about the spelling. Something like, "Well, I don't know how to spell it, but I sure as hell know how to drink it."
Today, I plan to finish writing a short piece for an anthology, plus hopefully get back to Two for the Show. Right now, Amy Perry's waiting for me after a game to lead her where to go. I need to tell her, "Hey, you're leading me. I'm only along for the ride."
Happy New Year, everyone! I hope to get on here at least once a week this year. That's my goal.
If you like a good crime/law mystery with a dose of romance, definitely read Carsen Taite's It Should Be a Crime, one of the books on the list. Since I work at the law school here in Indy with second- and third-year law students, the storyline with the law school and professor was fun to read.
We had a restful, quiet New Year's here at home. Do you know how to spell daiquiri?? I sure didn't. lol Sooooo...I've learned a new spelling for the new decade. Yay! I'll have to drop this in a book sometime with a joke about the spelling. Something like, "Well, I don't know how to spell it, but I sure as hell know how to drink it."
Today, I plan to finish writing a short piece for an anthology, plus hopefully get back to Two for the Show. Right now, Amy Perry's waiting for me after a game to lead her where to go. I need to tell her, "Hey, you're leading me. I'm only along for the ride."
Happy New Year, everyone! I hope to get on here at least once a week this year. That's my goal.
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