A Writing Journal

Characters of Peanuts – Charles M. Schulz

2012-01-27T15:29:00.001-05:00

Charles M. Schulz, was the author of the comic titled ‘Peanuts’. The character Lucy defines a strong female who is a winner and presents a challenge to the other characters especially Charlie Brown. Lucy falls in love with Schroeder. Mr. Schulz drew more than 18,250 strips in nearly 50 years. The NY Times interview reveals: Jeannie Schulz once said that all the characters in ''Peanuts'' are parts of her husband. ''He's crabby like Lucy, diffident like Charlie Brown. There's a lot of Linus -- he's philosophical and wondering about life.'' Like Schroeder, he loved classical music, though he preferred Brahms to Beethoven. And like Snoopy, he was a war buff. Snoopy had all of World War I covered.

In writing novels, I find that my characters often possess some characteristic of my own. Most authors identify with their characters in some way or know other individuals well enough to use their characteristics. My favorite character of the comic strip Peanuts is Lucy.

Lucy Van Pelt - Also known as Fussbudget and once called ''Crab grass on the lawn of life'' by Linus.
First appearance March 3, 1952. Inspiration Mr. Schulz's daughter Meredith. (''We called our oldest daughter, Meredith, a fussbudget when she was very small.''). Brothers Linus, Rerun. Unrequited love Schroeder (smitten on May 30, 1953). Accomplishments Pulling numerous footballs out from under Charlie Brown, beginning on Nov. 16, 1952; ran curbside psychiatric clinic for five cents a visit, beginning on March 27, 1959; master of the short psychiatric session. Famous words spoken to Snoopy on April 25, 1960, ''Happiness is a warm puppy.'' Traits Crabby, vain, loud, bossy, lousy outfielder. I love the following image:

1953

Perhaps the writer conjures up these little character images in the mind while writing? The characters become the voice of the writer. Through the characters we can be and say what we otherwise would remain quiet. In my study of Graphic novels I discovered that sometimes just words on paper are not enough to define a character. Images bring the character to life. Schulz was a Master at it.

Technorati Tags: Comic Strip,Peanuts,Writing

Weekly News & Chat – Jan.24, 2012

2012-01-24T17:33:00.001-05:00

This week has gone by rather quickly. Not keeping up with the Presidential candidates as well as last week in S.C. I have not decided yet which candidate I would endorse. I would like to see Santorum get ahead in the primaries. Tonight our President gives a speech – State of Union address, however, this will probably be a speech to influence people in their votes for November candidates.

That cruise ship accident reminds me of the Titantic – horrible, tragic, and unbelievable. I have never taken a cruise but I have driven and been a passenger on a sternwheeler and a regular boat as a water-skier. How frightening for the elderly and children. I’m not afraid of water so I probably would have been one of the individuals to jump in the water and swim to shore.

I have finished my 4th book “My Sermons, Volume 1” and wait for the proof copy before publishing with CreateSpace. I plan to finish my 5th book “My Sermons, Volume 2” in the next few weeks. I keep a reading.daily journal to record my thoughts about books, movies, and programs. Actually, I had writers block until I just wrote whatever came to mind and then some fruitful words came. Perhaps that is one way of beating writers block? Just write – something – anything – until something good comes. I have been reading books about writing newspaper and magazine articles. Way different from writing fiction or poetry. One of my dreams or items on my ‘bucket list’ is to write a column for the newspaper. That would be neat. You know like ‘Dear Abby’ or an editorial line or two. Then again, on my bucket list is to be the next ‘Minnie Pearl’. Ha! I would love that role but she can’t be replaced. Do you have a ‘bucket list’?

If you have an ingredient in your cupboard and desire to have a recipe, go to URL: http://www.supercook.com/

Facebook News from Yahoo News: The Timeline differs from the default profile pages we know and love in several ways. Now, rather than showcasing only your most recent posts, your personal front page can be scrolled back months or years at a time. Most importantly, this change can offer visitors a glimpse at your entire social networking past, all the way back to the day that you joined up. The revamp can be both a blessing and a curse for seasoned social networkers, as it can produce a bit of pleasant nostalgia, but also drag up some of your less proud public moments.The mandatory Timeline rollout will undoubtedly catch some by surprise, but you don't have to fall victim to the ghosts of past updates. Take some time to review your social networking history and don't hesitate to prune anything that you wouldn't want on the front page of a local newspaper. Because as of right now, the clock is ticking – 7 more days to go.

If you shop online, get any promotional code to use at URL: http://www.promotionalcodes.com/

Technorati Tags: A Writing Journal,Newspapers,Chat

My poem – Choo choo Woo woo

2012-01-23T19:24:00.001-05:00

I wrote a poem today to share with my family and friends.

Choo choo Woo woo

Get on board the old man sang.

On a locomotive, a long dark train.

Tickets, tickets, and greets of adieu.

Big wide windows fit the country view.

Flash by towns, skirt across bridges;

fly above waters; pass mountain ridges.

Cows and horses, here then gone,

old red barns and a rooster’s song.

Old steam engine chugs and toils,

shakes, rattles, and plenty of rolls.

Long smoke tunnels left behind

yet the train stays on track number nine.

At the crossing, choo choo and woo woo.

Hands wave back howdy do.

My heart beats a drop

as the train rolls to a stop.

At the end of the line,

choo woo - a trip sublime.

Technorati Tags: Poetry,Trains,Locomotives

Wise Blood by Flannery O’Connor

2012-01-21T20:11:00.001-05:00

My short review of the book titledl ‘Wise Blood’ by Flannery O’Connor.

Flannery O’Connor, raised in a small town, studied Creative Writing in college. She is known for her writing short stories, mostly religious in context. The cover of her book ‘Wise Blood’ depicts a symbol of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ, an icon of the Roman Catholic Church. The title depicts blood shed for a sacrifice. Individuals have been reading this book for ten years or more. The author presents herself as an ordinary person. The main character Haze Motes is depicted as a Christian struggling with his faith. His deep set eyes stand out among his characteristics for other characters in the book. The author describes the characters in detail nudging readers to think about them. The physical actions of the characters describe the main character’s environment. Several short stories in this book replay past events and situations of the main character. Motes carries objects which aid in his memory and his desire to be home. A Bible and his mother’s eyeglasses suggest his childhood home, his family members, and values of his home life. His clothing suggests he is a preacher. The story revolves around what the main character sees and experiences. The events suggest that he is separated from the material world. He analyzes this material world, not in a subjective way, but in a religious way using archetypes and words found in the scriptures. For example, the pigs in the book remind readers of the story of deliverance in the Bible by Jesus sending the evil spirits into pigs. Motes rarely stares into the faces of the other characters as if he doesn’t really care about their feelings or presence. The other characters appear to be involved in ordinary activities. However, the focus of Motes on the characters involves the actions of body parts and words that paint the landscapes. Nothing in the book moved me to suggest others read the narrative, although the flowery style of rhetoric is excellent.

Technorati Tags: Book Review,Wise Blood,Flannery O'Connor,Writing

Doggie in the Window

2012-01-20T15:38:00.001-05:00

Ah – memories of songs from my childhood! This was created the year I was born. Enjoy!

Technorati Tags: Music,1953,Doggie in the Window

Free English and American Lit courses online

2012-01-13T15:48:00.001-05:00

Here are some free English and American Lit courses online:

American Literature courses online

http://www.americanliterature.com/ American Literature

http://www.learner.org/resources/series212.html Intro World Literature

English courses online

http://www.udemy.com/the-american-novel-since-1945-with-amy-hungerford/ English 291 [I am taking this one for winter]

http://www.udemy.com/english-300-introduction-to-theory-of-literature-with-paul-h-fry/ English 300

http://www.udemy.com/milton-with-john-rogers/ English 220

http://www.udemy.com/engl-3327/ English 3327

Some of these courses are from well known higher ed universities and most of the classes are videos also found on You Tube.

Technorati Tags: Free Courses,English,American Literature

The importance of editing well

2012-01-09T16:53:00.001-05:00

I edited my novel over 50 times and another editor worked as well to insure my novel was in top shape. I ordered copies of my novel to hand out to my family. Not one mentioned the many errors I found in the published book. I am humbled and have learned a lesson well.

Here are the lessons I have learned as I work to offer a revision of my novel to the public:

Don’t be in a hurry to publish. Read other books published by the publisher you choose.
Print out your entire novel after several times of editing.
Make sure there are divisions when the story moves to a new location.
Order one copy and go over it with a fine tooth comb.
Make sure you have deleted the instructions if pasting your novel into a publisher’s template!!
Delete the published novel and upload a new copy.
Pray the public will accept the revised copy.
Don’t stop writing.

Technorati Tags: Writing,Publishing,Editor,Novel,Author

Free Webinar on Publishing WD

2012-01-06T12:07:00.001-05:00

FREE Live Webinar: Seven Secrets of Successful Self Published Authors

Session Date: Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Starting Time: 2:30 PM EST

Duration: 1 Hour

Register Now

Why is it that some writers are able to reach their publishing goal and market their books successfully while others never get it done?

Keith Ogorek, SVP of marketing for Author Solutions and self published author of two books, shares seven secrets he's learned from his own experience working with hundreds of authors that will help you understand your publishing options and the key things to know about effective marketing. Confused or overwhelmed by the changes in publishing today? This seminar will help you gain clarity about your opportunities.

Don't miss your chance to take part in one of Writer's Digest most highly attended webinars!

Technorati Tags: Writing,Webinar,Writer's Digest,Publishing

Weekly News & Chat – Dec. 26, 2011

2011-12-26T21:34:00.001-05:00

Hope your Christmas Day was family and friend fun! Our family gathered together on Christmas Day, had a great meal, and opened gifts. What a special day to be with the ones you love and to remember those who could not be present. Our menu: Honey Ham, Shrimp n Cocktail sauce, Bacon & Chestnuts, Buttered Asparagus, Potatoes, Noodles, Spinach dip & Pumpn. bread, Fruit bowl, Rich Chocolate cake, Monster Cookies, Peanut butter n Chocolate Fudge. Yum.

I found some fun while surfing the web. Go to Google Search and put “Let It Snow” in the search box – wait – and it will snow! Type “Christmas” or “Santa” into Google search to reveal a row of Christmas lights.

If you go to Yahoo's home page and click on the exclamation mark, you'll get to hear the classic Yahoo Yodel, made hugely popular by a series of commercials in the 90's. Make sure your speakers are on!

A bit of history: Washington's true funeral was held on December 18. He had stated his wish for a simple burial in his will: "[I]t is my express desire that my Corpse may be Interred in a private manner, without parade, or funeral Oration." His family and friends could not let him go to his final rest completely without ceremony, however, and so his Masonic fraternity arranged a procession, complete with a military band and a parade of soldiers on foot and on horseback. Washington's horse was led along the procession route, its saddle empty. The funeral procession in Philadelphia, attended by 4,000 mourners, was held on December 26. The result of a Congressional order, it was the first of many such observances held across the new nation in his honor. The procession also had a riderless horse and pallbearers who carried an empty coffin. Sixteen cannons were fired at daybreak, and every 30 minutes thereafter, until 11 o'clock a.m., when the troops and mourners began assembling at the State House. The procession made its solemn way through the streets of Philadelphia to the German Lutheran Church, accompanied by muffled drums.

My son will be celebrating a graduation to E8 in the Air Force. We are so proud of him and his hard work and service to our country. Prayers for all families in the military.

Getting ready for a Family New Years Dinner: Duck n Sauerkraut, Dumplings, Mash Garlic Potatoes, Buttered Broccoli, Hanky Pankys, Coconut Cake, and Red Velvet Bread Pudding.

I gave up T.V. for a week and listened to music. Still editing my first novel for a second revision. Learned some things about that first publication.

Technorati Tags: My Writing Journal,Writing

Writing Prompt of the Week

2011-12-18T18:47:00.001-05:00

You have been asked to host a talk program for television. What is the theme? Name your top five guests. Describe characteristics. List three major questions you would ask each guest. Think of other things you would do on your show like cooking (What recipes?); selling products (List them). What is the title of your show? Describe the seats, background, decor of the set. What tactics would you use to keep your guests on the answer to the question? Show the struggle to maintain and facilitate the conversations. Give yourself a few days to finish this short story.

Technorati Tags: Writing,Writing Prompt

Where is Santa Clause? Click here

2011-12-17T14:32:00.001-05:00

For all of you have so much free time or are looking for a way to entertain children this week. Follow the magical journey of Santa Clause at: http://www.noradsanta.org/en/ .

Have fun!

Technorati Tags: Santa Clause,Noradsanta,Christmas

Weekly News & Chat – Dec. 16, 2011

2011-12-16T16:00:00.001-05:00

This has been a restful, peaceful, transforming week! I am republishing my first novel “Bass Mountain:Cut in Two” probably with Smashwords. I am writing a book about my aging journey with a new title. Still working on a Genealogy & History book – have too many pages and I need to break them down. I am also publishing a book with Smashwords which will include all my old sermons.
There have been so many GOP debates for presidential candidacy! All of the Republicans running for President have good qualities except for one. I won’t mention his name because I really can’t figure out why he is running as a republican. Gingrich is intelligent, knows American history, and has the experience of Speaker of the House, etc. to get the job done. Romney reminds me of Reagan – a good character, funny at times, is a middle conservative, and he has governing and business experience. Bachmann is serious about her candidacy, a high conservative, not afraid of debates, stands firm in character. Santorum is finally speaking more, has a working relationship with the senate, and lots of experience and loyal to the conservative base. I left Perry for last here, however, he is my first choice for President – he is high conservative, bold with his faith and values, can get the job done, has military and governing experience. So far, this is where I am right now. Yes, this could change for my vote in the next year. I have only voted for a Democrat once in over 30 years. That won’t happen in 2012 [even if the President is my cousin?].
With no more courses to take, I am busy with discernment about my final thesis. Oh, I could just write about something good and get it over with, however, the finances to finish with my thesis, and writing a thesis for a secular institution are difficult. I am thankful for the college I am enrolled in but I just can’t write the paper I want to write. When I think of the expenses, I can think of other courses I would rather take at my age and courses that would be exciting – like writing and art. Should I put the finances into writing courses or writing a thesis and earn my graduate degree? If I was younger and looking for a career the answer would be simple. What kind of a job can I get at 58? I have until March to send in a new DCP and a Prospectus. Topics include religion, ethics, and sociology.
Other than writing, I enjoy art. If you want to change any photo into a cartoon for free – go to: http://www.befunky.com/ . If your looking for keyboard emotion icons (asii), go to: http://vnamedia.net/social-network/facebook-special-symbols-emoticons-ascii-art-shapes/ .
Getting ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. I have my Nativity set outside with some angels that light up at night. Inside decorations and tree are done. I am putting together a menu for the last few weeks of December. Hope all my family and friends enjoy Christmas and New Years this year.

Technorati Tags: A Writing Journal,Writing,Art,Politics

The 12-Day Plan of Simple Writing Exercises

2011-12-12T13:27:00.001-05:00

Have you finished Day 1 writing exercise with Writers Digest? [< http://www.writersdigest.com/online-editor/a-12-day-plan-of-simple-writing-exercise > Write ten titles of your next ten books. I wrote ten questions Jesus asked the people from the book of Matthew in the Bible. I paraphrased the words into a title. I have 12 pages set aside in my journal for this exercise. Each day the exercises will contribute to those ten titles or books.

Day 2 exercise: Create a character with personality traits of someone you love, but the physical characteristics of someone you don’t care for.

This stretches the mind to create a character already in your imagination. Since I am following the exercises using biblical concepts, I have quite a long list – but I don’t like putting the two together and creating one character. Then again, that one character is interesting, not quoting Sherlock Holmes. I also created two separate characters with this exercise – protagonist and antagonist.

On with Day 3 exercise: Write a setting based on the most beautiful place you’ve ever seen.

Thanks to BrianKlems for this article in WD. His blog: TheLifeOfDad.com .

Technorati Tags: Writing,Fiction,Writing Prompts

Recipe of the Week – Creamy Hash Brown Casserole

2011-12-10T21:22:00.001-05:00

Family loved this recipe! I added diced ham to this and 1/2c water to mix together. Instead of crushed potato chips I used bread crumbs. Yum!

Creamy Hash Brown Casserole

From Paula's [Deen] Best Dishes

Ingredients

1/4 cup butter, plus more for dish
1 onion, chopped
1 (16-ounce) container sour cream
1 (10 1/2-ounce) can cream of celery soup
1 (8-ounce) package shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 (30-ounce) package frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups crushed potato chips

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly butter a casserole dish. In a small skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add onion, and cook 3 to 4 minutes, or until soft. Pour mixture into a large bowl. Add the sour cream, cream of celery soup, cheese, garlic powder, hash browns, and salt and pepper. Combine until well blended. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Top evenly with crushed potato chips and bake for 45 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Technorati Tags: Recipe,Hash Brown Casserole

Illustration–Lords of the Library

2011-12-08T16:36:00.001-05:00

The Lords of the Library

Once the books in the library had a quarrel. "We are the lords of the library," said the rich leather-bound books behind glass doors. "See how much money our master has lavished upon us. See what care he takes of us. See how we glitter and shine."

"No, we are the lords of the library," urged the encyclopedias and dictionaries. "See how big we are. See how many we are. And we embody the substance of all knowledge.

"No," urged the volumes of belleslettres and philosophy, "we are the only lords of the library, for we are the climax of human thought. Our pages contain the most profound and most lofty of human imaginings and hopes .

"Pshaw!" sneered the volumes of science. "You are all dreams, but we are the realities. We come down to facts. Real life is based upon us. We are the lords of the library."

"You are all wrong," cried the novels. "The lords of the library are the books of refreshment and charm. When our master is weary, does he turn to you? No, only when he has more work to do. But he comes to us for delight. We are the lords of the library."

As the dispute was at its height and all were speaking together, suddenly, no one knew why, a mysterious silence fell upon them, and a quiet voice came from a book on a table in the center of the room. It was a worn book, its pages were much marked, in places they had been wet with tears. Gently it spoke: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. Come unto me, all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

That was all it said, but no other word was uttered in the library that night. The books knew that the Lord of the library had spoken.

From: Amos Russel Wells – 1918

Technorati Tags: Bible,Books,Library

12 Writing exercises for 12 days Christmas

2011-12-06T17:38:00.001-05:00

Writer’s Digest has created 12 writing exercises to help writers maintain writing. I plan to use this list during the next few weeks. Here’s the URL: http://www.writersdigest.com/online-editor/a-12-day-plan-of-simple-writing-exercise .

Did you know that a butterfly has 6 legs? I’m not smarter than a 5th grader.

Snippet of Day 1 writing exercise from WD:

Day 1: Write 10 potential book titles of books you’d like to write. [ I would add, then check if a book already exists with the titles chosen. If so, change them.]

Have fun!

Technorati Tags: Writing,Writing prompts

Free Poetry Courses

2011-12-06T00:14:00.001-05:00

Open University website has several free college courses. Under Arts & Humanities I found a course entitled ‘Approaching Poetry’ at: http://openlearn.open.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=3007 . Snippet of course description: Do you want to get more out of your reading of poetry? This unit is designed to develop the analytical skills you need for a more in-depth study of literary texts. You will learn about rhythm, alliteration, rhyme, poetic inversion, voice and line lengths and endings. You will examine poems that do not rhyme and learn how to compare and contrast poetry.

If you are new to poetry, OU has another free course “What is poetry?” URL: http://openlearn.open.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=2753 .

Winter projects…

Technorati Tags: Poetry,Creative Writing

Seven Days in Utopia – Movie review

2011-12-04T21:39:00.001-05:00

At present, I am watching the movie ‘Seven Days in Utopia’ on DirectTV. A professional golfer, Luke, takes a drive down the road in the direction of a town ‘Utopia.’ He barely misses a cow, hits a wooden fence, and his car slides down a hill. He emerges from the car and sits on the ground. A cowboy, Johnny, galloping on a horse approaches him and offers medical attention. Johnny takes him to an eatery in a nearby town. A waitress treats his head wound as several men return to the accident to bring his car in town. The waitress, Sarah, drives Luke to the ‘River Inn.’ Luke carries his bag of golf clubs and enters the inn. A woman takes him to a room filled with western country decor. Luke turns on the t.v. and watches a big league golf game where he played the loosing game in the past. The t.v. show Luke watches from the bed is a tool for back-story – his childhood flashbacks and up to the big game where his anger grows as he misses the holes. He snaps his club in half and throw it in a nearby pond. People in the eatery are also watching the game on a t.v. mounted high on the wall. Luke strolls through golf pictures near the front desk. The inn owner takes him to a town celebration where Luke talks with Sarah, not to the delight of another man. Luke leaves the populated area, sits on a rock, and more memories of his Dad teaching him golf. Johnny interrupts the childhood memories and talk about Johnny’s time as a golfer at a tournament. He tells Luke that if he spends 7 days in Utopia he will help him regain his talent as a golfer. Johnny leaves and Sarah joins Luke. She tells him about his father’ cancer. Luke asks Sarah if he should take Johnny up on his offer. She agrees as fireworks display in the background.

Next morning, Luke takes his bag of clubs to the golf area and Johnny joins him. The first step to winning a game is conviction. Luke begins to write in the journal Johnny gave him while back in his room. He hears noises in the next room and finds Johnny watching videos. Johnny explains the importance of confidence. The next morning, the two meet at the golf area as lessons continue. Their conversation continues on the front porch of the inn. Luke questions Johnny about how he arrived in Utopia. The next day they go fishing and Johnny teaches him how to have victory. Luke attempts to catch a fish standing on a boat. Balance is important and controlling your emotions. Luke catches a fish, the boat rocks, Luke falls into the water. Luke dives down deeper in the water and catches the fish.

They meet in an open area, however Luke is late with the appointment. Johnny tells him the importance of being on time. Johnny is painting on a canvas and encourages Luke to paint out his plan to land the golf ball in a distant hole. Again Sarah enters the picture when Johnny leaves. She invites him to travel to an area to remember the death anniversary of her father. Luke returns to the canvas and attempts to paint his plan. He attempts to plant the ball into the hall and wins. Flashback to a time with his father who is proud of his golfing.

Back at the Inn, Sarah arrives on horseback holding the reins of another horse. They gallop through the valley and overlook a beautiful river and distant mountains. Sarah shares that she enjoys life in Utopia where she is free to pursue her interests. The other jealous man emerges and soon Luke is involved in a fight. Luke is challenged to a rodeo fight in an arena. The ole bull enters the arena while the players must hold on to their chairs and avoid a disaster. Luke is the winner. The jealous man grows angry. Luke has a flashback to the voice of his father. Sarah tells Luke that the greatest wins in life are family, love, and faith.

Later that evening Johnny shares with Luke that drinking alcohol got in the way of his golf pursuits. Luke signs his painting in gold. Johnny takes him to play a gambling game with the jealous man Jake. Luke whips his coin right into the open hole and wins. Johnny takes him to the golf course with Jake. Both men hit the hole. Johnny gives Luke a favorite club to use someday. Johnny shares that his wife is gone but not forgotten. All part of God’s plan. Johnny leaves for the night.

Next morning Luke and Johnny drive a truck to a big garage that holds a small airplane. Once the plane hits the air, Johnny teaches Luke how to fly. Suddenly the airplane stops and Johnny teaches him how to land safely. As they come near the landing Johnny discovers that the engine was turned off. Back at the Inn, all the characters are gathered around a table for dinner. They hold hands and pray. After dinner, Luke practices hitting the ball properly. Sarah emerges with a glass jar and encourages Luke to hunt for fireflies. When the flying insects are trapped in the jar, their lights go out. Outside the jar they light up.

Next morning, Johnny grabs his bag of clubs and meets Luke at the golf for another lesson. Luke has improved with his puts and hitter style. Flashback to his loss with an 80. A terrible thunderstorm threatens the end of the lesson, however, Luke continues. Johnny tells Luke he is not his father and they should quit. Luke fears to quit. What do you want people to say about you when you are gone? Your golf score? Luke had no answer other than a golf game. Johnny teaches Luke about God’s presence and leading. He encourages Luke to trust God. Luke opens a chest and reads a letter that encourages him to write in the diary about what he has learned in Utopia and about every lie that defines him. Luke was lost before he entered Utopia. Now he has a new perspective into who he really is in the world. In the next scene, Luke attends church in Utopia. After church, Luke packs his bags to leave Utopia. He says goodbye to Johnny who gives him a present – a picture of Johnny’s last tournament. Johnny’s friend offers him a place in the next Texas tournament. The Inn keeper gives him food for the trip. Sarah emerges and gives him a gift, they hug goodbye.

He arrives home and embraces his mother. His father gives him a present – a golf club. His father asks for forgiveness for being so strict about his talent. They hug. His father picks up the Bible from the bag. Luke asks father to caddy for him at the Texas Open. The next scene is at the Open with Luke playing the game with professional golfers. On the finishing hole, down to two players, Luke, confident, puts close to the hole. Luke finds Johnny in the audience and begins to cry knowing that God has a purpose and a plan greater than his own. He analyzes the shot prayerfully and swings. Utopia is a place where truth resides, there are no accidents. Does it really matter if he wins? http://www.didhemaketheput.com .

Homework: Make a list of the lessons Luke grasped during his time in Utopia. Where is your Utopia?

Technorati Tags: Movie,Film. Seven Days in Utopia,Self-Identity,Faith

Thanks – 12,650 reads!

2011-12-04T12:08:00.001-05:00

Just had to stop today and say: Wow! A big thank you family and friends!

12, 650

hits to this blog thus far!

Celebrate life!

Wow! 12, 650

Technorati Tags: Blog,Blogging,A Writing Journal

Show me the details

2011-12-03T11:42:00.001-05:00

Don’t Forget the Senses in writing!

In your writing notebook of ideas, Write and record the five senses at a location or place, or outside around nature. This can apply to the five senses of your characters in each scene. Here is a good format to use:

Place/Person/Animal	Smell	Hear	Taste	Touch	See

Some at home writers research the senses of characters as they watch a movie or read a book. Others uses search engines. Think back to past experiences and record from memory any strong sensations. Smoky sacredness of incense at rituals. Fruity flowers at funerals. Sweet roses on anniversaries. Grandma’s bread or Grandpa’s cigar. Do sensations bring back memories of events? Or remind you of certain people?

Sherlock Holmes was a great detective because he was aware of his environment and he used his sensations to solve criminal cases. He was more than a causal scientist and went beyond observation and reasoning. He learned to see with all his senses.

For those of us who enjoy reading the Bible. Take one character and record everything they sense without actually telling the reader the subject, place, person, or animal. Let the reader look and absorb your words and ignite their imagination. What did Jesus smell? hear? taste? touch? see? How about Moses? Adam? Try going to www.biblegateway.com and search for the five senses. How do these senses apply to the location or person?

Write a free verse poem with each line expressing one sense. All the lines together would ‘show’ the topic.

Technorati Tags: Writing,Senses,Books,Authors,Writers,Creative Writing,Poetry

Acrostic poems

2011-12-01T14:49:00.001-05:00

My ‘poetry’ journal has several different types of poems. The acrostic poem is interesting, appears easy, and displays creativity. First, choose one topic – one word. The word chosen is the topic or theme of the poem. . The most common acrostic poem takes each letter of the word chosen and expresses the topic in a line or sentence. Each sentence begins with a letter of the word.

One old game is to express yourself using your name. Or express yourself using the letters of your name with titles of programs or movies. For example, here is my name in acrostic:

D DR. Quinn, Medicine Woman

E Eat St., Everybody Loves Raymond

B Bonanza , Biography

O Only in America

R Restaurant Impossible

A Amazing Race , Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader

H House Hunters

Instead of movies and programs, use a sentence from the Bible to spell the topic, or the name of a famous person. Or, write sentences where at least one letter of your name is in the same place in each line. This forces the reader to spell your name or topic using a bold letter in each line.

Types of acrostic poems: Name, Occupation, Famous Person’s Name with descriptions of that person, Seasons, Holidays, etc. Acrostic poems can help a writer’s block moment, or motivate writing any poem, or teaching a lesson to a class. Go to this URL: http://heartofthematteronline.com/how-to-use-acrostics-for-homeschool-lessons/ for an example used for homeschooling.

Technorati Tags: Acrostic,Poetry,Writing

Writer’s Block - Tips

2011-12-01T12:10:00.001-05:00

How to ‘pass through’ the writer’s block stage and become more creative.

1.First, when writer’s block presents itself, write down why you think you have it, the symptoms, how you overcame it, and what were the results. Turn the blockage moments into a story. The character is you. Your stuck somewhere in time. You are like a blank page waiting for something happen. Something interesting. For me, writer’s block occurs when my creative juices desire to write about something I don’t want to write about. Talk about the battle of the mind! I Sometimes I struggle to write about what is really going on or did occur in the past. Almost like the brain is divided into two sections – the real versus the interesting. One mistake I made in writing freely in my journal was spending too much time worrying about what I was writing about and what my readers would think. Well, there is no way to know what our readers think, right? One secret of good writing is to not worry and just type words that come – no matter how silly they sound. Don’t try to edit as you write. For example, read my blog. :>) . The greatest writers, in my opinion, are unique and touch upon major human emotions and real life experiences.

2.Many times, writers run from writer’s block and do something else like paint or re-arrange the kitchen cupboards. New experiences enable more creativity. Start a character notebook and write about every person you meet. Describe physical characteristics, strengths and weaknesses, occupation, location, their life experiences. Or start a location notebook. Describe where you are without a title. The building, or inside a tent, etc. What emotions do you feel being in that place? One time I described my visit to an emergency room without telling the reader where I was in one sentence. I described the people, their clothing, their actions, the pictures on the wall, the machines, the floor, the color of the walls, the lights on the ceiling, the buttons on the bed, etc. Get out of your room without a view.

3.Not too long after writing stories I noticed that major television programs and movies simply used old characters like Sherlock Holmes, gave them new names and occupations, and new experiences. Take an old character like Popeye and turn him into a conductor on a train or leading a concert symphony. Make Olive a flute player. Get the picture? Keep moving the character into new experiences found in books, theatre shows, or television series. This is so fun to do. The main problem most writers have is creating this exciting character who stands out and is predictable. Study old characters or real individuals in your life that you enjoy.

4.Don’t write to sell a book. Write because you enjoy creating characters and telling a story that will touch lives. Pretend your not writing a book. Just write. I find that a real story comes when I don’t plan and the characters emerge on their own. Let the characters have freedom.

5. There is a story waiting to be told and you alone have the words. Go for it.

Technorati Tags: Writing,Writer's Block,Storytelling,Writers,Authors,Creativity

Weekly Chat – News & Discussions – Nov.2011

2011-11-29T09:59:00.001-05:00

My writing projects are in progress. First, I had to rewrite my first novel due to an editor mistake which is a hard lesson to learn – re-edit after editor re-writes. My second novel “Castle Fire” is slow to sell for some reason. My best fiction so far. My 3rd cook “My College Courses’ consists of all my college research papers and notes (310 pages). I put these into book format with Blurb mostly to preserve the research work and time and possibly use to write my Master Final. I am taking a leave from college courses until March to prepare and to better finance. My 4th book is my Genealogy & History material found on that blog. I continue to write in my ‘Aging Journal’ and keep my Reader’s notebook up to date. My Reader’s notebook holds all my responses to what I read and to what I watch in programs. My computer is set up so that I am facing my computer and my television, so I am absorbing material all the time.

How precious are those times we spend with family. Thanksgiving Day was a day to relax, watch the Macy parade, and prepare for my children to visit. How good to see my two grandchildren who live out west. My daughter-in-law did not have to go to Iraq due to the President bringing home troops. All of the family was together for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. My grandchildren had a ball at the mall participating on the bungee! How brave to jump in the air, flip upside down, and giggle the whole time. Even my 2 year old grandson enjoyed the feat! The constant rain prevented us from watching the local parade. Today we are shopping with great grandmother and eating lunch nearby. Missed Black Sunday sales on purpose. Some shopping online, but not as much as in the past.

Facebook is going public in the spring according to news resources. Gone will be family time there. I can imagine some people being somewhat embarassed after being free to converse, etc. I have been blogging online since the internet began with my first webpage being from Sprynet, than AOL, Geocitties, Rootsweb, Host Monster, and now Google Sites & Blogs. I’m not addicted to the computer but I have more free time as I age. And, I simply enjoy the computer.

The aging process continues. We are all traveling the same path. The body is dying however the soul is growing, learning, and gaining wisdom. Writing about the life journey, especially on my blogs, gives me a sense of sharing my identity, views, and debates. Sometimes we never really know the author behind the blog. Words mold into thoughts and birth ideologies. The daily life of most people centers on the news and media influence. Knowing thyself is so important today. Being able to express our beliefs and values without fear is so important for society. For so long I believe that most people go along with what other people believe rather than dig in and learn about issues and come to some definition on their own. They are afraid to go against the grain, speak out for what is right, and overcome fear or rejection. It’s too easy just to agree and go on with it. Education is the number one tool to discovering who we are and define the world we live in. Question everything. Seek and find. Make life a priority. Be responsible for what you know and use it to change the world for the better – justice and peace.

Where am I as far as my choice of a Presidential candidate? I am still undecided at this point. I have a few favorites. I am a registered Republican, however, I admit voting outside my party in the past. For at least thirty years I have always chosen a Presidential candidate who wins. No kidding. This is the first time I am stumped. I think the media is getting better at influencing and persuasion. I look for many things in choosing a President. Leadership skills are necessary. Speaking skills are not as important as getting the job done. Representing the majority seems to be difficult. Candidates mirror the diversity of our nation. In time the selection will be easier.

Keep on learning. Keep on writing. Keep on enjoying life.

Technorati Tags: Chat,Blogging,Bloggers,Facebook,Politics,Writing

America and I - Anzia Yezierska	Poetry – Mind Map	Websites – Arts & Humanities
Write a limerick poem	Writing your Memoir	The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock
Mind Map of Rhetorical Strategies	Poetry Lesson #3 – Form	Links - My College Papers
Photojournalism & Ethics research paper done	Links to the topic of “Books”	Sherlock Holmes – College paper

Deborah Tannen – Gender Differences chart	Culture Stress	Research paper – Rudy Guiliani & Leadership
Self Identity – Walker Percy	Being creative	Research paper – Shared Ethos
America–Self Identity	Thanksgiving – George Washington	7 billion people
Euthanasia: Medical Ethics – Research paper	Book of Genesis and Darwinism – research paper	America – Founding Fathers

Bible Study – Children – King Solomon	Shema – Hebrew Prayer	50 Elite Academics discuss God
Sermon – Christ the King	Sermon – We give thanks and praise	Sermon – Keys of the Kingdom
Bible Study – Psalms – evil	My Gospel Music	The Christian Right Movement – Research paper
Separation of Church and State	Sermon – Why do you seek Jesus?	Sermon – Discipleship