Author S.R.Claridge

I know all too well the irrational hopelessness that comes with depression. There is nothing more overwhelming than being controlled by it and being unable to shake it. You can be fine one moment and it will blindside you the next. You can be happy on Monday and on Tuesday you can hardly get yourself out of bed. There is no rhyme or reason for its onset. There is no logical pattern for its existence. Depression comes and goes as it pleases. It hurts you because it destroys you from the inside out. Make no mistake... depression is a destructive force, a would-be killer, and it is not something you should attempt to tackle on your own.

Depression is a disease, just like diabetes. Fight it like you would fight any other physical disease... with a doctor's care, with the support of family and friends, with prayer and diligence. Depression doesn't mean you are crazy, at least not any crazier than most the population.  It simply means the chemicals in your brain are not balancing they way they should.   

I spent years fighting depression and there are still times when it tries to take hold of me again. To those of you battling it now, let me encourage you to remember God is greater than any circumstance in your life and more powerful than the grip depression has on you at this very moment. I've walked in your shoes. I've curled in a ball in my closet sobbing until my body ached, and prayed to die. I've felt the shame that comes with feeling like eveyone thinks you're crazy. I've sat motionless for hours, staring thru glassy eyes, unable to function, much less to live. I understand the depth of sadness you feel and I know it seems like it will never go away. But it will. If you grab the hand of Jesus, He will walk with you through the darkness and you will once again bask in the light of joy and feel the weight of depression lifted from you. The darkness of depression cannot exist in the midst of God's light. Reach to Him and He will rescue you.

When one word works, don't use two.  Here are some examples of common phrases we use and probably don't realize are unnecessary redundance:

• return back

• progress forward

• forests of trees

• other alternatives

• continue on

• evacuated out

• regress back

• penetrate through

• speeding too fast

• refinanced again

• a human person

• charred black

• reiterate again

• fast forward ahead

• socialize together

• two twin towers

I met with a group of writers and during our discussion it became clear that they were so focused on what they deemed to be the proper etiquette of writing, that they were stifling their own creativity.

One woman commented, “a real writer writes at least four hours per day.”

A man tacked on, “oh, at least!”

I listened intently as their conversation continued. “A real writer outlines their novel before writing a single word,” the woman said.

Another woman sighed with disdain, “and have you seen these people that think they can write without first creating a character sheet for each character?”

I never interjected into the conversation, but it got me thinking. The most prevalent thought in my head was this: there is no wrong when you write. This isn’t math we’re talking about. There isn’t one right answer and a million wrong ones. This is writing. There is no limitation on how much or how little time you write each day, no restriction on how much characterization you do, no rule on whether a full outline, partial outline or any outline is needed. There is no wrong in the act of writing. Sure, there are grammatical laws to be followed and formatting rules to obey, but even those don’t apply to the first draft of your creative masterpiece.

I think when we concentrate on what we think we should be doing, we lose focus on what we are actually accomplishing.

Life gets in the way of writing sometimes and so our creativity must adapt to the ebb and flow of our constraints. Even if you can only jot down one sentence in a day, it very well may be the most powerful sentence you’ve ever written. From it may stem the idea for your next novel. Every idea counts. Every word is useful, even if it merely directs your mind to a better word. From one utterance of the brain stems a plethora of creative pathways. So if you are in the stage of life where writing four hours a day cannot be your reality, don’t be discouraged. You are no less of a writer and no less creative than the person who sits in front of their computer all day every day. There is no wrong when you write.

As every published author can attest, publicity, promotion and marketing eat up hours of time, often forcing creative juices to be put on hold. Finding a balance between time to promote and time to write can be maddening; but it is a necessary evil. There are people out there who will tell you what you should be doing, and how you should be doing it; but only you can determine what works best for you. Only you can find the creative balance you need to be productive in your writing.

So, no matter how you do it…write on… because there is no wrong when you write!

SPOTLIGHT AUTHOR: JASON MORGAN

(J. Lloyd Morgan)

Before we get started talking about your books, tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from? What is your occupation outside of writing? I grew up in Utah, but have lived all over the USA. After 7 years in Connecticut, we moved to North Carolina, where we plan on staying for a good, long time. I have been a TV director (primarily of newscasts, talk shows, and public events). What do I do now? Only the shadow (and my boss) knows.

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert?

I'd have to say a combo of both. I enjoy spending time alone--hence a lot of hours in front of a keyboard writing. While I don't seek out large groups or events, I can be quite the outgoing person. I've enjoyed giving author talks and hope to do more in the future.

Do you have any pets?

With 4 daughters, I have enough little things running around the house as it is--so no, no pets. However, when it was just my wife and I, she brought home the smallest puppy on planet Earth. He was a terrier-poodle mix (or "ter-a-poo"). Since he was so little, I decided he needed a big name, so I called him Armageddon. We nicked-named him "Argy".

What are your favorite books to read?

Primarily Sci-Fi and Fantasy books. I do enjoy a good techno-thriller time and again. I also really enjoyed "The Work and the Glory" series which was historical fiction.

Where is the most unique place you have traveled?

Probably the jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. I was able to visit the ruins of Chichen Itza. The Castillo there was actually an inspiration for part of the sequel to The Hidden Sun.

Aside from your successes in the writing industry, what in your life has given you the greatest sense of accomplishment?

My family, by far. I have the best wife and most wonderful daughters. I've won awards for different things in my life, but nothing compares to seeing my daughters make good choices and lead good lives.

How many books have you written and how many of those are published?  The Hidden Sun is actually my first book, and the one that is published. The sequel, called The Waxing Moon is written and in the final editing stages. I'm about 14,000 words into my third book. (For reference, the other two books are roughly 100,000 words each)

Do you have one particular genre that all your books fall under (i.e. suspense, romance, etc.) or do you write in many different genres?

Actually, it's hard to pin down which genre The Hidden Sun belongs to. It's set in Medieval times, but there isn't any magic nor non-human characters in the story. I've heard it described as action / adventure / romance / political intrigue. I did write a short story recently for a contest which was fantasy--and I may flush it out to a full blown novel one day.

How much character and plot detailing do you plan out before you begin writing a novel, or are you a “pantser” (fly by the seat of your pants) ?

I'm a combo of both. I plot out the characters, setting, and basic outline. Now this next part is may sound strange. From there, I put the characters in the setting with a general idea where they are headed. However, I'm surprised time and again which path they take. I think by doing it that way, it helps the characters come alive--which I've heard from readers is something they have really liked about my writing.

Prior to becoming a published author, how many rejections did you receive? How did you handle the rejections?  Oh, goodness. Rejections are part of the publishing world. I see it like a marriage. It's a big commitment, and not everyone you ask out is going to want to marry you. I have certain authors and genres I like to read, and it is the same for everyone. Just because someone doesn't like your work, doesn't mean it's necessarily bad. I did have one agent tell me she liked my work--and if I added more swearing and sex scenes, she would represent me. I was one that did the rejecting there.

How and when do you write? Do you keep yourself on a schedule or do you work while the muse is with you?

I have to set time aside to write. I wish I had the freedom to write when to mood struck, but my life as of the moment is too busy. What's the saying? "I have too many hands on my time."

If you have a new release coming out, tell us about it.

The Waxing Moon takes place four years after The Hidden Sun. It's much more of an adventure novel than the first one. The primary character is a minor (but interesting) character from The Hidden Sun. I really don't want to give too much away, because it will spoil the fun and surprises in the book.

Out of all the books you’ve written and the characters you’ve created, which is your favorite character and why?

My favorite character is Abrecan--the antagonist in The Hidden Sun. Why? Well, he's just such a jerk. I've had many readers tell me how much they really dislike him--some going as far as wanting to reach into the pages and strangle him themselves. Anytime you can cause an emotional response like that in a reader, I think that is saying something.

If you could give one piece of advice to writers trying to get published, what would that advice be?  I'd say four things. #1 Don't give up. #2 Put on a thick skin. #3 Keep an open mind. #4 Don't give up. (Yeah, 1 and 4 are the same--but it is important)

What's up next for you and your writing?

Goals for this year are to get The Waxing Moon published and the first draft of the third book in the series completed.

Anything else you'd like to share with my blog readers?

Yes, thank you for taking the time to read this! Oh, and buy a copy of The Hidden Sun. It's by far the best book every written by someone named J. Lloyd Morgan.

Where can we read more about you and your work?

My website is http://www.thehiddensun.com

There is a link to my blog from there (which I update twice a week) as well as reviews, and a section called "behind the secrets" of The Hidden Sun--which you should only read *after* you have read the book.

Jason, thank you so much for sharing more about yourself and your work. Best wishes on your upcoming release!

FAN of the Week: KELLY SEALE

Hi Susan, and everyone on your fB page, and fan pages, blog twitter, and others...I am very excited to be Susan's FFF of the week!

I am a retired 20 yr. Navy Vet. (Since 1999) Originally from Murray, Ky. Moved to Michigan after retiring from the Navy. Spent 10 yrs. in Lansing, Michigan working as a Steam Production Engineer. Got tired of the cold, the Michigan economy, and coal dust, and up and quit my job and moved my family (wife Victoria of 23 yrs, and two sons, Trent 13, and Coalton 11,) to Las Cruces, New Mexico. I Landed a fantastic job as a Gas Turbine Power Plant Engineerr in September 2008 at PNM Resources. We lived in the city for 2 1/2 yrs, and just moved out to the country where we live at the base of the Robedilo Mountains on 14 acres of beautiful desert mountain country.

I love to photograph anything from sunrises, sunsets to desert life to almost anything at all. My passion; however, lies in writing. I write from my heart and attempt to touch as many people with my words as I can. Please look me up on Facebook and request to be my friend! I've written numerous poems and short stories and am currently working on a submission for the Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition this spring. My New Year's Resolution is to get published in 2011. I have included for your enjoyment, several poems and photographs.

Thank you for this opportunity, and I hope everyone enjoys it!

V/R, C.Kelly Seale.

_________________________________________________________________________

"Just Listen"

These Words, are my attempt

to reach you.

Without all the resentment felt

between the both of us.

The blaming game has been played out,

Satisfaction niether found, nor enjoyed.

Lives changed forever,

Relationships destroyed.

I will keep this short and sweet.

Attention to the next stanza...

I have, and always will... care for you.

My feelings are now driven by self-preservation.

In order for you to grow,

and be the person that you want to be...

You have to let go.

The past is a bitch

at reminding us of all our mistakes,

No need to relive old wounds

Just do what it takes..

The place where you are at

is approaching the rock at the bottom,

Nobody can help you

till you get there.

And you will know...

That this dark, deep hole

you are in...

Has only one way out,

And it won't be an easy climb.

Just Listen...

To the next few words I say,

You can do this

For there is no other way.

You must leave all the crap

behind you,

The needle, the bottle, the pill...

For they will pull you back down

and drown you,

I know you can do this

I know you have the will.

When you have broken free

of all these things that bind you,

I will be here to help hold you

and get you thru the next day...

If only that you will listen

to these words that I say.

Just Listen...

To me now, just this once

To these precious words from above,

And your life will be better than ever before...

You shall earn the respect

you deserve,

And have a life filled up with Love.

cKs.

____________________________________________________________________

One of our most basic needs, from the time of conception, to birth,

and from childhood throughout our entire adult lives, and even in death-

Is touch. The need is so strong, so omnipresent,

that without it, we would surley die. Through my writing, I attempt to touch.

I invite the reader; you, to experience life and love, death and tragedy, suspense and excitement.

To feel my touch-

"Touch"

The human touch -

flesh against flesh,

skin against skin,

I crave it so much,

where do I begin.

My fingers trace-

the shape of your lips,

the outline of your face.

They gently carress-

your favorite place-

The back of your neck

where passion lives.

It awakens your soul,

it quickens your heartbeat,

and shortens your breath.

Without your touch I'm afraid

I'd withdraw into myself,

and enter the throes of death.

You take my hand in yours,

you smile and laugh

as we walk and talk.

You hold me tight

and whisper,"I love you!"

You playfully give me a bite.

Your fingers expertly roam

the contours of my back,

I'm almost there, in heaven-

You're on the right track.

Anticipating the touch of

your lips upon mine,

That's what touch is all about.

Our eyes meet as you tell me-

"Kiss me now, or I'll cut your heart out!"

cKs.

________________________________________

"December's Magic"

Christmas Eve in Walmart was a nightmare. The crowds of people in their shopping frenzy, were for the most part, pleasant. Last minute gifts for their children and loved ones were on their minds. And I, like several shoppers in front of me, was in the check-out line from hell.

My basket filled to the brim of Christmas Dinner entrees and all the trimmings.Twenty-five pound Butterball, the prize of my shopping safari. The pickin's were indeed slim, and I was lucky to nab this prized bird, for all of the other's were frozen and this would not due. No, not on Christmas Eve.

You see, I had been tasked by my wife, to run this errand while she continued making preparations for our move, which deadline was only one week away. It seems that our Christmas celebrations were taking a back seat to this untimely, yet unavoidable move from our current house in the city, to a new life in the foothills of New Mexico's desert mountain region.

Hey, I'm not complaining. It might be farther to drive to work, and more gas to burn, but oh, such a view. Acres and acres of land for our two boys, our two horses, our two dogs, our two cats, and lets not forget Bugsy, the rabbit. Anyway, my wife is more or less, in charge of the move. Well, to be honest, she is more or less in charge of everything. She always has been the person that gets things done. Everybody loves her for this. Especially me. Her friends flock to her like kittens to a moma cat. They love her honesty and her giving of herself to others. Those who don't, the're just jealous.

So here I am, standing in line to check-out, getting all the fixin's for tomorrows grand feast. Hey, at least I'm missing out on all the fuss of packing, sorting and tossing all the stuff we have accumulated in our two years since our "last move" from Michigan to New Mexico. Why do people keep so much stuff? And at Christmas time, they just go out and buy more stuff.

Getting closer to check-out. Guy in front of me has two brand new bikes, already put together. Smart guy. Thinking back , seems like yesterday, buying bikes in a box for my boys. Staying up past midnight, Christmas Eve to Christmas morning, trying to put em' together. My wife, of course, took the job over, not even using the directions. How do they do that?

The guy with the bikes, balances the two wheelers out of the store, on their way home to await his children's delight in the morning's suprise. My turn. Wheeling my overstuffed basket up to the pleasant, smiling cashier. Noticed the lady behind me with two small children. The're hands combing through the goodies set up strategically adjacent to every check-out ailse, just to drive us parents crazy as we try to get-in, get-out, with our sanity intact.

The lady behind me has a small amount of food in her basket. Small roasted chicken, two cans of green beans, two cans of corn, box of instant mashed potatoes, and two candy bars that her children begged for. I noticed her patience wearing thin, as she tried her best to maintain her children in line.

"Excuse me ma'am," I spoke up. "Would you like to go ahead of me?" I asked her, smiling, knowing the relief I just gave her. She nodded politely, and said thank you as she pulled her basket and two children to the front. I smiled at her two little ones, wondering what surprises await them in the morning.

The cashier totals the lady's bill, and she slides her card through the machine. The cashier sheepishly tells her that it's declined. She looses her composure just then, and remarks about her drunken husband spending the last of her pay on booze. She's in tears now, as she mutters an explictive in-between Merry and Christmas, and storms out of the store, emptyhanded except for her two children in tow.

I just stood there. Watched it all. I did nothing. And then it was too late. The cashier apologized as I pushed my cart up and started to unload my prized bird and all her treasures. For some reason, I tuned out all that was around me. My mind wondering what kind of Christmas that family would have. I didn't even hear the cashier's voice as she gave me the grand total.

I'm not feeling pity, I want you to know. I was angry. Angry at myself. I did nothing! Then, I thought, if I had it to do over again, I'd of offered to pay the lady's bill. Yes, I told myself. That's what I'll do next time. Next time. Too late for her and her family. The cashier wished me a 'Merry Christmas', and I replied the same back to her. My heart still with the lady that had left emptyhanded.

Out of the store, cold, fresh air to greet me. I looked up at the Christmas colored sky, stars winking at me. What a magical night this is. On the bench, next to the exit, was the lady who was in front of me. She was still in tears, oblivious to her two children's cries. She was so upset that I was a little apprehensive as I approached her.

" Excuse me, Ma'am," I said, trying not to upset her even more. "I want you to have this." My words following my heart, as I not only offered her my prized bird, but my entire bounty, overflowing basket and all.

She looked up from her tear-stained, make-up smeared eyes, and at first, couldn't say a word. Then,"I- I don't want your pity!"

"No Ma'am!" I calmly offered. "Ma'am, It's Christmas! Please, Take it. Take it all. It is my present to you. Please."

She could not believe her ears. "Na- nobody does this crazy thing?" She protested. And I just smiled.

"Merry Christmas Ma'am!" She got up and gathered her children, and slowly pushed the stuffed cart towards her parked car, miles away I supsect, parking lot madness in full effect.

She looked back and stopped an oncoming car, honking an oblivious objection to our magical moment.

"Merry Christmas to you Sir!" She smiled back at me. I turned away, just then. Not able to hold back my tears any further. Tears of joy. Magical tears of joy that only seem to happen at this magical time of the year.

As I started back into Walmart, I looked again, to the sky. There was a special glow, that I did not notice before.

It was the glow of Christmas Love. It was the glow of December's Magic. I re-entered the store and the cart lady offered me a cart, and before i could retrieve it, a heavy-set lady in a hurry, grabbed it and was off to the races!

I gladly took the next cart offered to me by the cart lady. Smiling all the way into the store as the left front wheel squeeked and skided with every step I took.

cKs.

____________________________________________________________

"Fade In"

Fade In...

The moning sun breaks through

a crack in the curtains,

And shines down upon your face,

Awakening you from your dreams.

You reach over to hold him-

Not expecting him to be gone,

And your heart breaks wide open-

As you just keep on reaching on.

The smell of him

lingers-

In the tangle of sheets in your bed,

The memory of his face, his eyes-

Burns deeply into your head.

You can still feel his touch-

On the most intimate places of your skin,

And yet, there can be no doubt-

That you will never see him again.

Fade in...

Fade out.

cKs.

___________________________________________________

"Dancing Girls"

The eternal war

Of sea against shore,

Raged on-

Holding no quarter.

Earth and stone, grinding away,

Blood and bone, decadent decay.

Dancing Girls-

Sharing secrets, flesh against flesh.

As the girls danced-

Under the bright moonlight,

They were something to behold-

Oh, they were a sight.

Dancing Girls-

Holding eachother tight.

Throwing care to the wind,

Dancing past the waltz's end.

Onlookers stop and stare-

Oh, how they gossip and drool,

Whisperers a knife in their back,

How can people be so cruel.

But the girls

Just kept on dancing on-

Not caring to ever look back,

Forever entwined, beauty untouched.

They shared thier passion with the crescendo-

Of the wind, and the sea, with the moon, and the stars,

The musicians recognized thier beauty-

And they joined in with thier guitars.

The crowd of people thinned out,

And very soon, they were gone.

Leaving the girls alone-

Alone in their trance,

Alone to their dance-

As the eternal war

Of sea against shore,

Raged on.

cKs.

_________________________________

Thank you Kelly for being my FANtastic Friday FAN and for sharing your heart with us through your beautiful writing.

It has been a pleasure getting to know you better.

Best wishes!

SPOTLIGHT AUTHOR:  V I L A    S P I D E R H A W K

Before we get started talking about your books, tell us a little about yourself.

I’m a retired teacher, having taught French at community colleges, at a four year university, at high schools, and at middle schools. I very much enjoyed that and miss it on occasion. I love the smell of chalk and the joy of introducing students to a different culture and perhaps to a new way of thinking.

Before that I was an accountant, a job I didn’t particularly enjoy but that paid the bills. In between I held several boring and mundane jobs, again to pay the bills. Now, however, I write, which has always been my dream.

I was born in Philadelphia but have lived all along the east coast, from Connecticut to southern Georgia with a very brief stint in northern Florida. When we retired, however, we came back to Pennsylvania, since our aging parents were still here and we wanted to be near them.

From the very beginning of our relationship, we agreed that one day we would live in a log home in the woods, and so we spent about twenty years designing our home, learning that erasing walls on graph paper is much easier than ripping them down once they’re built.

We finally had the plans for the house of our dreams, but we needed five more years to find the perfect plot of land on which to build. We thought we had died and gone to heaven when we finally found it. And, of course, we built the house immediately. In 1999 we moved in or, more accurately, oozed in. We brought our household goods over by the car load until we got down to the very large items. Then we rented a U-Haul and finished up the task. It was a relatively painless move, since we put everything away as we brought it over. And this is where we have lived ever since.

We have four cats now: Freckles, Cadeau, Puck, and Callie, who give us a great deal of pleasure except on the days when we feel as if we’re living with a house full of naughty two year olds. And, of course, we enjoy frequent visits from our many woodland friends. The cats seem to enjoy seeing all those beasties outside the windows except for the deer and the bear. They’re not too fond of large mammals.

I take a great deal of pleasure in playing in the dirt. I love to plant and nurture things, particularly herbs. In fact, we don’t have any grass. We use herbs as ground covers. The deer seem to enjoy that. So do the rabbits.

I also love to cook, which is why I wrote Forest Song Cookbook. Since I enjoy cooking (and eating) so much, my characters do a great deal of that. People became interested in the dishes the characters were enjoying and asked me all the time how to prepare them. Well, I got so tired of sending individual recipes out, that I decided to write a book containing recipes for all the dishes served in the first two Forest Song books. I am currently working on another cookbook for the second two Forest Song books.

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert?

I am definitely an introvert. I have always been shy and relatively reserved. I’m the kind of person who likes to people watch. I enjoy listening to conversation and watching body language. I could not, by any stretch of the imagination, be called the life of the party. I’m fine with small groups. But crowds seem to close in on me. I try to avoid them if I can.

There is no question you have a deep love for your cats. Why don’t you tell us a little bit about them:

Oh yes! The oldest is Freckles, and he’s our little athlete. His favorite trick is jumping on top of open doors and then pouncing down on me when I go through the doorway. He thinks that’s a great game. I tend to disagree.

Puck is the next oldest. He came to us with an attitude. He was aggressive and unpleasant. But, given the struggle he had just to survive at a very young age, that’s not surprising. Someone had thrown him into a stream as a kitten, and he came very close to drowning. I found him and fished him and his sister out, and they were barely alive. Well, to make a long story even longer, I nursed them back to health and then gave the sister to our neighbor whose heart simply melted at the sight of her.

Cadeau also had a tough time. He was left on the doorstep of our vet’s office in a carrier. Unfortunately, the rocket scientist who had dropped him off had opened the carrier door. Cadeau, of course, escaped. We were in the midst of a very violent thunderstorm at the time, and, terrified, he sought safety in a bush. Unfortunately, it was a thicket of wild berries. He screamed and screamed, and the techs who work there searched and searched for him. They finally freed him, bloody and scared, and brought him into the office. There he got all the medical attention he needed and thrived. However, they could not keep him indefinitely. Since we had lost a cat to cancer a few months before, and since Cadeau looked like the cat who had died, the vet called us. And he asked those six deadly words—Would you like to hold him. Well, needless to say, Cadeau became part of our family. Cadeau means gift in French, and that’s why he has that name. He was a gift from our vet and, I am convinced, from Merlin, the cat whom Cadeau so resembles.

Callie came to us last year on 9 October. I had been out running errands. When I got out of the car, I heard a cat’s distress call and found a beautiful mostly white calico kitty sitting on a rock screaming her head off. Of course, I went to her. She leapt into my arms and would not let me go. Well, I brought her in and fed her and examined her for wounds and ticks and other nasties. While she had a few ticks, she seemed okay. That’s when I discovered that she had been declawed! This cat had been out in the woods for who knows how long with no means to protect herself and no way to feed herself. That broke my heart.

I assumed that she had gotten out of the house somehow and imagined her family frantically trying to find her. I made up flyers and stuffed mailboxes. I made up posters and pinned them up in all the local businesses. I put ads in the local papers. I called all the local vets. Nobody knew anything about this cat. And so after a full veterinary check-up, I integrated her into the family. It’s been touch and go ever since. She is clearly used to being the only cat in the house, and so she’s very aggressive with the others. But I trust that, like Puck, once she feels secure and loved she’ll mellow out.

Puck is now a champion at cuddling. I think Callie has the same potential.

What are your favorite books to read?

I generally prefer non-fiction, truth to tell, though I enjoy a good story. I particularly enjoy novels that explore human relationships. I don’t care where they’re set or what their genre is. I care that the relationships are honest and ring true. I want to understand the characters, to know what makes them tick, what causes their behavior. I am always disappointed when a story doesn’t offer me that.

Where is the most unique place you have traveled?

I loved Hawaii. I was there for R&R when my first husband was on leave from the Vietnam war. We stayed top drawer at the Hilton Hawaii Village. We were able to do that, because everything was half price for military people. We had such a wonderful week, almost like a second honeymoon. However, I am not particularly interested in returning. That was a special moment that cannot be duplicated.

Aside from your successes in the writing industry, what in your life has given you the greatest sense of accomplishment?

Oh every time I saw that “AHA” look in a student’s eyes I went home feeling like wonder woman. There is nothing better than watching a kid catch on, to see the absolute bliss in her or his eyes when he or she does! That is priceless.

How many books have you written and how many of those are published?

I have written four books of fiction: Hidden Passages: Tales to Honor the Crones, Forest Song: Finding Home, Forest Song: Little Mother, and Forest Song: Letting Go. I have also written Forest Song Cookbook. Thus far all the books I’ve written have been published. I am currently working on another novel as well as another book of stories and, of course, another cookbook.

How much character and plot detailing do you plan out before you begin writing a novel, or are you a “pantser” (fly by the seat of your pants) ?

I plan nothing. I channel my characters. That is, I go into a light trance and let my main character tell me her story. I basically take dictation from her. Once I have the chapter sketched out from her input, I go back and make art of it. But the basic story comes through me, not from me.

Prior to becoming a published author, how many rejections did you receive? How did you handle the rejections?

I have been outrageously blessed. I have never received a rejection letter.

(This is where readers gasp and writers stand in awe and applaud you. You are the first author I have met who has never received even one rejection letter. Kudos!)

How and when do you write? Do you keep yourself on a schedule or do you work while the muse is with you?

I write in the living room. I have a corner of the sofa where I prop my laptop on the sofa arm and the end table. It’s right in front of the hearth, and so I enjoy having a fire going when the weather is appropriate. Of course, I have four feline assistants that make sure I get things right. Mimi used to be on my lap at all times, but we just lost her. Now Puck is usually on my lap. Freckles likes to lie on my left arm. And Cadeau and Callie enjoy lying on the back of the sofa or draped across my shoulders.

I write at night. I promise myself every night that I’m going to start writing by about ten, but the truth is I never can. By the time I take care of everything else that needs my attention each day, it’s at least eleven or twelve by the time I actually sit down to write. Then I work until I can’t hold my head up anymore.

My character is my muse, and I find that if I call her, she comes. She wants her story told. In fact, she can be a bit of a nag. Some days she refuses let me rest until I at least jot down what she wants me to know. But I don’t wait for any special inspiration. I simply write.

If you have a new release coming out, tell us about it.

Forest Song: Letting Go was just released in October. This is the third book in the Forest Song series in which World War II is in full swing. There is tragedy in this book, though I prefer not to go into it here. It’s better if the reader lives the experience first hand. There is betrayal. However, the characters meet the terrible challenges they encounter with courage and cleverness, even humor. At bottom, it’s a book about the triumph of the human spirit.

If you could step into the world of anyone else’s novel or meet with any character, which/who would you choose?

Among others, I’d like to step into the world of Luciente in Marge Piercy’s Woman on the Edge of Time. I admire Luciente and her people. I love that the genders are genuinely equal in her culture, that she is free to be who she is, to take up as much space as she wants, to speak loudly or softly, as she desires. I love that her culture truly treasures the earth and understands that it must be protected and nurtured. I love her culture’s attitude toward the old. I love that people are free to change their names as they mature and the old names no longer fit them. I love their attitude toward sex, toward mental illness, toward property, toward war. I would love to live in Luciente’s world.

If you could give one piece of advice to writers trying to get published, what would that advice be?

First and foremost, get your manuscript professionally edited. I’ve seen some wonderful concepts that sloppy grammar and poor sentence structure have wrecked.

The second thing is to do your homework. It’s easy enough to research publishers that will handle your genre. But that’s just the beginning.   There are many unscrupulous or just inept publishers out there. Learn as much as you can about a house before submitting.

And then be prepared to spend every waking moment promoting your book.

(I have to add an “Amen” to that!)

What's up next for you and your writing?

I am currently working on three books: the next Forest Song novel, a book of stories, and a cookbook. That should keep me out of mischief (or get me into some) for a while.

Anything else you'd like to share with my blog readers?

I’d like to tell them what a pleasure it was to do this interview with you and to thank you for your gracious hospitality. Thank you for this.

Where can we read more about you and your work?

I have a blog at Xanga: http://tiny.cc/6ocas

I also have a facebook page: http://tinyurl.com/2axy9n9

They could check my author’s page at Vanilla Heart Publishing: http://tiny.cc/5CNNS

And I have a website: http://www.vilaspiderhawk.com

Thank you for stopping by today, Vila. It has truly been a pleasure to learn more about you and your writing.

SPOTLIGHT AUTHOR:   M I S H A   C R E W S

Before we get started talking about your books, tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from? What is your occupation outside of writing?

Well, I was born in Charlottesville, Virginia, and I've lived in and around DC all my life. I'm a DC girl from way back! Aside from writing, I work in the accounting field. So I'm a book-keeper as well as a book-writer.

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert?

Hmmm...I'm either an introverted extrovert or an extroverted inrovert, I'm not sure which, lol. I defintely have my introverted moments, but I really like meeting new people and hearing their stories. :-)

What are your favorite books to read?

I love all genres of writing, although my favorites are probably mysteries and romance. I usually have several books going at once; right now I'm reading a Harlequin romance called "Texas Trouble" and I'm reading the Harry Potter books.

Where is the most unique place you have traveled?

Well, to be honest I haven't traveled as much as I would have liked. One of the most memorable places I've visited in the last 10 years was Venice Beach. I loved seeing the mural of Jim Morrison, and walking along the beach, thinking of all the artists who have stared out at those very same ocean waves.

Aside from your successes in the writing industry, what in your life has given you the greatest sense of accomplishment?

The time I've spent working with children, working as a tutor and writing coach. I really can't think of very many things that are more rewarding than teaching a child and watching his or her world open up. It's a remarkable thing to experience!

How many books have you written and how many of those are published?

I've written three novels: Homesong (2008 and Still Waters (2010) were published by Vanilla Heart Publishing. My third novel, Her Secret Bodyguard (2010) was self-published.

Do you have one particular genre that all your books fall under (i.e. suspense, romance, etc.) or do you write in many different genres?

All of my books are definitely romance! Homesong has historical elements to it; Still Waters and Her Secret Bodyguard are both romantic suspense.

How much character and plot detailing do you plan out before you begin writing a novel, or are you a “pantser” (fly by the seat of your pants) ?

I like to have a general sense of things before I start writing: main characters and the direction of the plot. At some point during the writing process I usually do a full outline, but sometimes I'll have a large chunk of the actual writing done before I do the outlining.

Prior to becoming a published author, how many rejections did you receive? How did you handle the rejections?

I was fortunate and got an acceptance pretty quickly. The rejections that I did get were no fun, that's for sure! I usually handled them with a liberal dose of commiseration from my fellow hopeful writers. :-)

How and when do you write? Do you keep yourself on a schedule or do you work while the muse is with you?

I try to write on a schedule, and I try to write every day, even if it's only for ten minutes. If the muse isn't around, I disconnect my "overthinking" mechanisms and throw words at the page until I feel I've accomplished something. Re-writing is a wonderful thing, lol!

If you have a new release coming out, tell us about it.

I had two books come out this year, so if it's all right I'll tell you about both of them!

STILL WATERS (available in paperback and on Kindle)

A tragic death….

A disturbing photo that can't be explained….

A woman drowning in an ocean of secrets….

In 1950s Virginia, beautiful, serious Jenna Appleton seems to have found the life she's always wanted. But underneath the shallow gleam of her bright suburban world, murky truths are waiting to surface.

On the morning that her husband dies in a tragic accident, Jenna finds a shocking photograph of him in the arms of a beautiful woman. And before she can ask him about it, he's gone forever.

Five years later, Jenna has buried her questions and remade her life. But the reappearance of an old love stirs up guilty questions, and she realizes that some secrets weren't meant to be hidden. The deeper she dives for answers, the darker the water gets. How will she find happiness for herself and her family, when every step she takes towards the strange and awful truth seems to lead her right back to her own home shores?

HER SECRET BODYGUARD (on Kindle)

When a Special Forces veteran is hired to protect a Malibu playgirl, sparks fly faster than bullets. But will they live long enough to realize they're falling in love?

In an exciting twist on her timeless tales of heart and home, author Misha Crews sets her latest story in Los Angeles, playground of former model Blake Sera. Although she's not yet thirty, jaded Blake is sure she's seen it all. Until she discovers that the man she's been been living with is up to his neck in the murky underworld of crime. When Special Forces veteran Caleb McKenna is secretly hired to protect the glamour gal, he's sure that Blake is just another pretty face whose only interests are sunning, funning and shopping till she drops. But soon he realizes that there's more to her than big blue eyes and a killer smile. Can they survive their passion? Can they survive at all?

If you have many books already released, tell us which is your favorite and why.

That's a toughie! I think that HOMESONG, my first book, will always be my favorite. I have a real soft spot for that book.

Out of all the books you’ve written and the characters you’ve created, which is your favorite character and why?

Again, when you ask me that question I'm going back to HOMESONG, lol! My two favorite characters in that book are Pleasance Fitzgerald and Billy Lewis. Pleasance is the grandmother of Reed Fitzgerald, the hero of HOMESONG. She had a tough life, and she made life tough on those around her, but she loved her grandson beyond measure, and everything she did was for him. Billy Lewis was a traveling preacher, who happened to cross paths with the Fitzgerald family one summer, with interesting results. :-)

If you could step into the world of anyone else’s novel or meet with any character, which/who would you choose?

Great question! Do I have to choose just one, lol? I would love to visit the Bennet family from Pride & Prejudice, and have Christmas dinner with Ebenezer Scrooge's nephew Fred and his wife and friends. I'd also love to take a tour through the worlds of Roald Dahl - stop for a snack in the Chocolate Factory, go for a ride in the Great Glass Elevator, maybe even poach a few pheasants with Danny, Champion of the World! And of course, I'd want to have tea with Jane Marple and hot chocolate with Hercule Poirot!

If you could give one piece of advice to writers trying to get published, what would that advice be?

Be persistent, and be patient. Realize that rejection doesn't mean your writing is unworthy - ALL writers are rejected. Keep writing! (Okay, that's more than one piece, but I hope it's helpful!)

What's up next for you and your writing?

I am always working on my next project! I have about three books that I want to write all at once, but I'm not sure yet which I'll finish first!

Where can we read more about you and your work?

You can read book excerpts and short stories on my website: www.MishaCrews.com  , and I hope you'll also check out my blog: www.mishacrews.blogspot.com

Thank you for stopping by Misha, and for letting us take a glimpse into your world as a writer!

SPOTLIGHT MILITARY FAMILY: Mike & Ruth Dickmeyer (Kansas)

It is with great pleasure that I introduce Mike and Ruth to you on this MILITARY MONDAY segment. Mike and Ruth are not only my previous neighbors, but they are wonderful people and dear friends.

Before we hear what Mike and Ruth have written, I want to share a memory of the day Mike came home from his first tour of duty. It is a moment I will never forget.

Our street knew from Ruth when Mike would arrive and that morning neighbors lined their yards and filled the cul-de-sac with flags.

The children on our street colored and painted signs to welcome him. As the hour neared we all excitedly waited, watching the top of the street for Ruth’s car. When it finally appeared the kids jumped on their bikes or ran and followed Mike and Ruth down the street to their home, cheering and applauding.

Neighbors, like me, soaked it all in, with teary eyes and goose bumps … thankful he had returned safely, grateful for the service and sacrifice Mike and Ruth were making for our freedom, and reminded of the thousands of families who earnestly await the homecoming of their loved ones.

WORDS FROM MIKE DICKMEYER

I am SFC Mike Dickmeyer (Medical Platoon Seargant) and my last time deployed to Afghanistan was spent in two roles throughout the year: one was running an Aid station in Mehter Lam for the Unit and the other was in Jalalabad moving needed equipment in and out of the country.

The Unit I was with was a small Agriculture and Development Team that was the first in our Province. We met with local Elders and Farmers, and used some of their old world technology mixed with a little of ours, to help raise better livestock and crops.

Typical day and nights would vary depending on whether or not we had missions traveling outside our Bases. In our downtime, we would use the Gym, watch movies or work on Distance Learning Courses offered through sometimes sporadic Internet connections.

Phone calls with family and loved ones were always a highlight for me, as it would temporarily take my brain to another place. Keeping busy was always important to me because it would make the time go faster, and each day was one day closer to going home. ~

WORDS FROM RUTH DICKMEYER

I am Mike’s wife, Ruth, and this is my perspective and how I handled Mike being gone.

Mike was deployed twice. His second deployment was a little easier because we knew more of what to expect. Also, we knew far in advance which helped in getting things in order. But... no matter what, it is still very hard to say goodbye, knowing you will not see them for a long time and having the awareness that they are in harms way. I have always felt for the families that have children in which it becomes much more complex.

The advice I would give to other families and to loved ones for the first and all deployments is first of all take care of yourself and your family in all forms- Physically, Emotionally, Spiritually, Mentally. You do not want to make it worse by having lifestyle behaviors that will cause more stress for you and your family.

Second, do not be afraid to ask for help. Mike and I have had such a great support system with our wonderful neighbors, friends and family members and even my coworkers. We feel very blessed. Do not hesitate to ask for help when you need it. We have found that most people really do want to help you.

Lastly, take advantage of the military support systems in place and accept all the support you are given.

There is one more thing that helped Mike and I tremendously during his deployment. We figured out ways to communicate while he was there. Technology is amazing now, so take advantage of it and include the entire family.

I also want to extend A Big Thanks to all the loved ones in the military and your contributions to keep us free and to all the soldiers who fight for us everyday. ~

Thank you Mike and Ruth for sharing your experience, perspective and advice; and thank you, most of all, for your sacrifice and service. It is because of families like you that we are able to proclaim “One nation, under God, with Liberty and Justice for all.”

If you know someone serving in our military, remember to take a moment and extend your gratitude. Whether at the grocery store, shopping mall, church, school, airport or on your neighborhood street, stop and utter a simple “thank you.”

We cannot fathom the sacrifices they make for our safety and freedom. They put their entire lives on hold to fight for us. They miss their kid’s ballgames and dance recitals. They don’t get to kiss their spouse goodnight at bedtime, nor wake up being snuggled and held. Some don’t know if they’ll even live to see the next day. They put their dreams on the back burner so that we would have the freedom to pursue ours. They give all of their body, their emotions and their minds to the mission at hand. Their wives, husbands, fathers, mothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, brothers, cousins, nieces, nephews, grandparents, and friends miss them, long for them and pray every day for their safe return. I urge you to join them in those prayers, to fly your flag in recognition of every soldier giving up their daily freedoms to defend ours… to recognize and honor them at every turn… as the true American hero. ~

FANtastic Friday FAN of the Week :   D A L E    E L D O N

Dale Eldon is originally from Colorado Springs. He works the night shift at McDonalds to pay the bills, while he is in the process of writing a sci-fi/thriller series.

The first book of his four part series is called Unequivocal Evil and it starts out with an explosion at the Super Bowl. The FBI and CIA are set on a quest to find the terror cell responsible.

As they go further into the intricate web of this organization, they discover a secret political syndicate that has ties with new major corporations; some of which are responsible for strange scientific events occurring all over the world.

For more information on Dale and his writing, visit his awesome blog called The Wordsmith’s Attic. http://dale-eldon.blogspot.com/

Thank you, Dale, for being my FANtastic Friday FAN. Good luck on your quest toward being published. I look forward to reading Unequivocal Evil and the rest of the series.

SPOTLIGHT AUTHOR: J A N E T   W A L T E R S

Before we get started talking about your books, tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from? What is your occupation outside of writing?

I'm Janet Lane Walters married for fifty years to my psychiatrist husband who contends writing is my obsession and he doesn't want to cure it. I'm the mother of four. My youngest is an adopted biracial girl. Actually all my children are over their teenage years. I have five and soon to have six grandchildren. Four are biracial and the two will be Chinese. We have an eclectic household and that fits since I bill myself as an eclectic writer. I was born outside of Pittsburgh, Pa and have lived in Pa, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas and now New York. Here I'm in the scenic Hudson River Valley and can see the river from my upstairs windows. At one time I was a nurse but have been retired for many years.

Do you have any pets? If so, what kind and tell us their names.

Had Robspierre, a twenty-three pound Maine Coon cat died have no desire for another pet. He is featured in some of my books.

What are your favorite books to read?

Reading favorites are many and varied. I generally read a book every two or three days. Some are re-reads and some are new. Love mysteries, fantasy, romance, science fiction, action adventure and almost anything. I do not like or read horror. No Stephen King or Dean Koontz, except for his early science fiction stories

Where is the most unique place you have traveled?

I believe Northern Ireland was the most unique. This was back in the days of the "troubles" We did a tour of the island in five days and then went to the Giant's Causeway with a group of Irish teenagers. Now that was an experience not to be repeated. Loved the scenery and enjoyed the accents. Went swimming in Galway Bay and the natives thought my friend and I were touched in the head.

Aside from your successes in the writing industry, what in your life has given you the greatest sense of accomplishment?

Watching my children grow and becoming human. All have careers and seem to be doing well.

How many books have you written and how many of those are published?

I will say all the books I've written have been or are about to be published. I'm not sure exactly how many but somewhere around forty. There are some novellas, poems and short stories floating about on paper and in electronic form. Several, maybe four of my books are non-fiction, the rest are fiction.

Do you have one particular genre that all your books fall under (i.e. suspense, romance, etc.) or do you write in many different genres?

Once again, we have the eclectic writer. There are mysteries, suspense, fantasy for the young and for adults, romance from sweet to spicy. I tend to go on binges of writing in one genre and then drift to another to give myself a break.

How much character and plot detailing do you plan out before you begin writing a novel, or are you a “pantser” (fly by the seat of your pants) ?

I tend to do both. While I have my characters developed, my settings known and a general idea of the story. The end is always known. Then I sit down to do a rough draft. This is the one only a mother can love. It tends to ramble and also to be a lot of dialogue and things written like must look up a or b or must do a love scene here but I do not take time to do more than mention them before I get to the end. Often there are turns I never expected in the road but always I have the end goal in mind.

Prior to becoming a published author, how many rejections did you receive? How did you handle the rejections?

I began writing short stories and had many rejections before I sold one. I think somewhere there is a box that contains these. Some have short notes. When I turned to novels, my first one received 17 rejections and was re-written that many times since in those days editors often gave ideas for making the book better. Things like what is your heroine's motivation? Your setting needs work. People do not exist in a vacuum.

How and when do you write? Do you keep yourself on a schedule or do you work while the muse is with you?

I write every day from four to eight hours depending on what's happening in other areas of my life. I do not have a muse, what I have is applying my seat to the chair, my fingers to the pen or my hands to the keys.

If you have a new release coming out, tell us about it.

I believe the next release I have is the third book of a YA fantasy Series called Quests. The four young adults plus five friends set off on three different quests. They are looking for certain talismans, other young people with affinities for the elements, air, water, earth and fire. They also seek the four missing heirs of the four princedoms of their world. While doing this they face natural disasters, the evil dom and his underlings and their own internal problems.

Out of all the books you’ve written and the characters you’ve created, which is your favorite character and why?

Actually maybe I have one favorite character and that's the serial killer in Obsessions, a man who operates in the shadows.

If you could give one piece of advice to writers trying to get published, what would that advice be?

Persistence pays and be true to your own vision.

What's up next for you and your writing?

Finishing the fourth of the Henge Betrayed YA fantasy series -- Confrontations. Then a novella, contemporary, spicy A Sudden Seduction and then on to the second of the Egypt series. I think this is the Pharaoh of Horu.

Where can we read more about you and your work?

http://wwweclecticwriter.blogspot.com/

This is my blog where I do a lot about writing, not necessarily my own.

I do not have a web page as such but there is a great one up on http://www.angelfire.com/stars4/kswiesner/jewels10.html

Thank you, Janet, for being my spotlight author on this Special Thursday Edition of TUESDAY TALKS.