tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70001451751193020292024-03-12T19:02:02.987-07:00Everything CreativeAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-18662228054654297732016-05-01T06:02:00.000-07:002016-05-01T06:03:21.602-07:00Concussions<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Concussions are funny things. They cause your brain to hurt just by thinking. It doesn’t make much sense until you understand the brain is bruised and requires time to heal.</div>
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Symptoms can appear right away or not for hours. The most common symptoms include a headache, dizziness, and spotty vision. For parents, signs to watch for are confusion, vomiting, and stumbling or falling. This brain injury can be mild or severe and lead to death. The following three incidents had three different outcomes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ohio Fastpitch Umpire, James Simpson, took an indirect, foul tip to head and passed away two days later on April 25, 2016. Jim was unaware the hit caused internal bleeding. Additional information is not known at this time. Jim’s family is our hearts and prayers. <a href="http://tinyurl.com/Umpire42516">http://tinyurl.com/Umpire42516</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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A lacrosse player took a shot on goal to his helmet. He shook his head and remained motionless while the game went on around him for a few seconds. He had two black eyes from the incident, but no symptoms or complaints. The coach nor referees took him off the field. Concussion? Probably.<sup><o:p></o:p></sup></div>
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A softball player, who is a catcher, took a foul tipped ball to the helmet right between the eyes. She stood, shook her head, and chased after the ball. Everything seemed normal. Twelve hours later, she complained of a headache and the street lights gave her spotty vision. She even became nauseated and dizzy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The softball player had a mild concussion. The doctor wrote her off school for a day and advised her not to watch T.V. or use her phone and to get plenty of rest. She’d have to pass the Base-Line Concussion test to return to the game. <o:p></o:p></div>
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When she returned to school, looking at a smartboard and trying to concentrate caused the symptoms worsen to the point of having to leave and see a Sports Medicine Doctor, who specialized in treating concussions. The doctor wrote her off school for a full week and gave her specific instructions on what she could and could not do. These included: sleeping as much as possible, only watching TV an hour a day (no big action shows with lots of colors and/or explosions, etc.), no softball practices or games, not even to watch (too much action and thinking), only fifteen minutes on a computer, tablet or cell phone per day, and only walking five minutes at a time until symptoms lessened and went away. The return to play protocol is completed one on one with the school’s athletic trainer and includes light aerobic exercise, sport-specific exercises, no contact training drills, full contact practice, and finally return to play.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In my new young adult release, Rae and the Ruby Scepter, Rae takes a hit to the head when she collides with the runner she’s tagging out. Hours later, Rae fears she has a concussion when she finds herself in a strange place, the world of Ferane. She’s been enlisted to save the world instead of chasing her dream to earn a softball scholarship from a PAC-12 college. You’ll connect with her constant thoughts about the game and how she uses her experience as a player throughout the book. To read more about Rae and be part of her everyday life visit her on Instagram (Rae.degraff.0416) or Twitter (@RaeDeGraff0416). Check out Amazon.com on May 3<sup>rd</sup>, 2016 for a print copy, or pre-order the e-book now <a href="http://tinyurl.com/RATRS.50316">http://tinyurl.com/RATRS50316</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-26060249468885927212015-03-12T06:25:00.001-07:002015-03-12T06:25:09.248-07:00Rae and the Ruby Scepter Updates<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have been very busy the last several weeks, including uploading two parts of the story to WattPad (a platform that allows you to read books for free). Here is the link: http://www.wattpad.com/story/33192230<br />
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I am on Twitter as Lily.M.Knight1.<br />
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Additionally, Rae is now on Instragram and Twitter. If you would like to see what she is up to, her user name is Rae.DeGraff.0416<br />
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Rae was tweeted about by ACProductions46, in a link to Divergent.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-18709553255185157972015-02-12T13:14:00.001-08:002015-02-12T13:14:50.273-08:00Rae and the Ruby Scepter<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Check out the first 5000 words of Rae and the Ruby Scepter on Wattpad.com by searching for LilyMKnight. Let me know what you think.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ypp7nGt5Qrw/VN0XuCJZFGI/AAAAAAAAAFY/FrwE0wvE1eo/s1600/LilyKnight-72dpi-1500x2000%2BEBook%2BCover%2BRae%2Band%2Bthe%2BRuby%2BScepter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ypp7nGt5Qrw/VN0XuCJZFGI/AAAAAAAAAFY/FrwE0wvE1eo/s1600/LilyKnight-72dpi-1500x2000%2BEBook%2BCover%2BRae%2Band%2Bthe%2BRuby%2BScepter.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-79393390023670815332015-02-03T07:48:00.003-08:002015-02-04T04:23:35.054-08:00Knights Templar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">The
Knights Templar were a medieval military order from 1119-1312. They aligned with The Pope and their job was
to protect Christian Pilgrims.
Officially endorsed, the Order became the favored charity and grew
rapidly in power and membership. At the
peak of the Order, there were between 15,000-20,000 members. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Headquartered
at the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, the knights battled marauding highwaymen and
other religious factions. The
non-combatant members of the Order managed a large economic infrastructure
across Europe. This first banking system
allowed pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem to deposit their valuables with a local
Templar branch, receive a document indicating the value of the deposit, then
retrieve their funds in an amount of treasure of equal value once they reached
their destination. This made the
pilgrims less attractive targets for thieves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">In The
Ruby Scepter, some of the Knights' Templar members, including Grand Master Jacques De Molay, escape the Friday, October 13, 1307 execution when they flee
from the Order's Portuguese branch
located in Tomar, Portugal.
Convent of Chirst Castle was built in 1160 by Gualdim Pais, founder of
the city of Tomar. The Knights Templar
travel through Castile, now known as Spain, then stay close to the coast as
they travel through France and Brabant, known as the Netherlands to Friesland
where the portal to Ferane is located.
The Knights arrive on Ferane on February 9, 1308. These Knights have taken with them some of history’s
most notorious symbols of faith including the Holy Grail. Along with the Holy Grail, the Knights took
with them The Star, carved from the first tree on Earth by God, and the Mirror
of Knowledge, both of which can see the future.
The Star, if you are lucky, tells you your future. The Mirror of Knowledge gives kings the sight
of what the future holds, but beware, you have to be wise to understand the
images it shows you.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-89925935249981698002014-11-04T05:56:00.000-08:002014-11-04T06:25:30.680-08:00The History of Mother Nature<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Times, serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Mother Nature, sometimes referred to as Mother
Earth, has roots dating back to 12 and 13 BC in Mycenaean Greek, ma-ka which
translates to ma-ga or Mother Gaia. Mother Nature is the
personification of nature, focusing on the life-giving aspects of a mother.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">In Greek Mythology, 900-800 BC, Mother Nature
was the goddess of harvest, Demeter. We didn't have the seasons then as
we do now until her daughter, Persephone, was taken by the god of the dead,
Hades, to be his queen. It is then that Demeter became so distraught that
no crops would grow. The entire human race would have perished during
that time if Zeus had not stepped in and forced Hades to return Persephone.
Demeter's grief is reflected in the barren months of winter and her
happiness for Persephone's return is reflected in the warm summer months
in which we grow our produce.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">During medieval Christian times, 5th to 15th
centuries, it was believed that God created Mother Nature. He granted
her the space below the heavens and moon. She had angels above her and
demons below her. Mother Nature was only a personification, not a goddess
as early Greeks believed with their goddess, Demeter.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?id=HN.607989368833771301&w=103&h=103&c=8&pid=3.1&qlt=90&rm=2" /><br />
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Mother Nature image, 17th century alchemical text</div>
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<span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times","serif"; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;">In Inca Mythology, Mama Pacha or Pachamama is
the the fertility goddess. She reigned over planting and harvesting.
The literal translation is Mother Universe. Pachamama is seen in
the form of a dragon which causes the earthquakes. In pre-Hispanic
literature, Pachamama was a cruel goddess, eager to collect her sacrifices.
But as Peru began to form as a nation, Pachamama became seen as a giving
goddess. Issues only arise when the people take too much from nature.</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fa/Santa_Cruz_Pachacuti_Yamqui_es.gif/220px-Santa_Cruz_Pachacuti_Yamqui_es.gif" /></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; line-height: 17.3185615539551px;">Representation of the cosmology of the Incas, according to </span><a class="new" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Juan_de_Santa_Cruz_Pachacuti_Yamqui_Salcamayhua&action=edit&redlink=1" style="background: none rgb(249, 249, 249); color: #a55858; line-height: 17.3185615539551px; text-decoration: none;" title="Juan de Santa Cruz Pachacuti Yamqui Salcamayhua (page does not exist)">Juan de Santa Cruz Pachacuti Yamqui Salcamayhua</a><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; line-height: 17.3185615539551px;">(1613), after a picture in the Sun Temple </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qurikancha" style="background: none rgb(249, 249, 249); color: #0b0080; line-height: 17.3185615539551px; text-decoration: none;" title="Qurikancha">Qurikancha</a><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; line-height: 17.3185615539551px;"> in </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cusco" style="background: none rgb(249, 249, 249); color: #0b0080; line-height: 17.3185615539551px; text-decoration: none;" title="Cusco">Cusco</a><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; line-height: 17.3185615539551px;">, with </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inti" style="background: none rgb(249, 249, 249); color: #0b0080; line-height: 17.3185615539551px; text-decoration: none;" title="Inti">Inti</a><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; line-height: 17.3185615539551px;">(the Sun), </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mama_Killa" style="background: none rgb(249, 249, 249); color: #0b0080; line-height: 17.3185615539551px; text-decoration: none;" title="Mama Killa">Killa</a><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; line-height: 17.3185615539551px;"> (the Moon),</span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pachamama" style="background: none rgb(249, 249, 249); color: #0b0080; line-height: 17.3185615539551px; text-decoration: none;" title="Pachamama">Pachamama</a><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; line-height: 17.3185615539551px;"> (Mother Earth), </span><a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mama_Qucha" style="background: none rgb(249, 249, 249); color: #0b0080; line-height: 17.3185615539551px; text-decoration: none;" title="Mama Qucha">Mama Qucha</a><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; line-height: 17.3185615539551px;"> (Mother Sea), and </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chakana" style="background: none rgb(249, 249, 249); color: #0b0080; line-height: 17.3185615539551px; text-decoration: none;" title="Chakana">Chakana</a><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; line-height: 17.3185615539551px;">(Southern Cross) with Saramama (Mother Corn) and Kukamama (Mother Coca).</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-39681837735392464722014-10-20T08:01:00.001-07:002014-10-20T08:01:37.871-07:00Debute Novella, Devil May Care by Lily Vega<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This hot, erotica novella will have you reading from start to finish without taking a break. Lily will have you thinking of the Devil in a whole new, hot and sexy way when he is the reluctant hero in this story. Blake Owens masquerades as a human security guard for a wealthy man's Halloween Party. Little does he know, but he will save the hot, angel costumed Arianna Prince from certain death before the night is over.<br />
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This must read is well written, thought provoking, and highly stimulating. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-913363461026065622013-09-09T10:32:00.003-07:002013-09-09T10:32:21.255-07:00Book Review - The Tempestuous Debutante<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">The Tempestuous Debutante by Becky Lower<br /><br /> In Becky's fourth book of the Cotillion Ball Series, she will have you believing in the power of a first kiss. Jasmine has her sights set on an engagement to an English Aristocrat to advance her social standing before the next season of debutante balls. If she fails, she will become known as a 'poor unfortunate', a debutante who did not find love during <span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show">her first season of balls. Your heart will race right along with Jasmine's as she discovers what is truly important in life along with true love.<br /><br /> With fresh writing and endearing, believable characters, this lighthearted historical romance may be Becky's best yet.<br /><br /> You can find this book and others of Becky's on Amazon.com. Happy reading, my friends!</span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-57919894057825594252013-05-19T09:05:00.001-07:002013-05-19T09:05:57.573-07:00Super Nova Crashes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span class="userContent">Have you ever seen a child who is pumped up on sugar running around and around and around? I know you have! And you probably thought to yourself that it will be funny when they crash? Well, friends, kids aren't the only ones to get that hoped up. Remember how I went SUPER NOVA? Well this is me, shortly thereafter...</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-28908427325479439372013-05-19T09:01:00.003-07:002013-05-19T09:01:26.131-07:00Entangled<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">My second pitch was late in the afternoon with Entangled Editor, Shannon Godwin. Now Shannon smiles a lot. And I really liked that because that is the way I am. She wanted to hear about my completed ms first. Although we only had seven minutes, we spent a lot of time on RAE. She really liked my high concept for this paranormal/fantasy. Having seen nor heard of any ms like this, she requested<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show"> the first three chapters and synopsis. My time with her was up, but she said if you can tell me your second ms in two or three sentences then go for it. So, I said, "It isn't until rich girl, Candance, mets Tucker after she has been arrested and sentenced to community service for bungee jumping off a building in Houston that she realizes she is broken. Tucker knows why she is there because it was all over the news, but why is he there?" <br /> <br /> Shannon immediately asked for the first chapter of Candace along with a synopsis.</span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-88635645325762625232013-05-19T08:58:00.001-07:002013-05-19T08:58:52.632-07:00The Knight Agency<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I had the time of my life at the conference yesterday. My first pitch ever was with Elaine Spencer from The Knight Agency. I was soooo nervous! One because it was my first time, and two, Elaine is a very sophicated young lady. It's not <span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show">everyday in my world that I meet someone like her. Anyway, I stumbled my way through the pitch and in the end she told me that both Rae & Candace are sellable! She requested the first 100 pages of which either WIP I thought showcased my work the best even if it takes me six months to send it to her (because Candace is only in her second draft). Yeah me!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-58463271998042685722013-03-17T11:04:00.001-07:002013-03-17T11:04:37.570-07:00GILDED AGE ~ A Novel by Claire McMillan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I recently met author, Claire McMillan at my chapter's
monthly meeting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She spoke about her new
novel Gilded Age, which is a contemporary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This really threw me and at first I wasn't interested in the book at
all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides, the novel is set in
Cleveland of all places.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I look at
Cleveland, whether I'm driving up 71 or 77, all is see is dirt, crime and an
unexciting skyline.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now that I have began reading, I have to say her writer's
voice hooked me right away so I read another page and then another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The story doesn't start in a dirty,
crime-ridden, unexciting location.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Instead, the story unfolds in the beautiful Severance Hall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fretwork is rumored to have been modeled
after benefactor John Severance's wife's wedding veil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How romantic!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">To enjoy this promising novel yourself, visit:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">http://www.amazon.com/Gilded-Age-Novel-Claire-McMillan/dp/145164048X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1363541898&sr=1-1&keywords=gilded+age<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-58109080901540559702013-03-03T08:50:00.000-08:002013-03-03T08:50:02.369-08:00Surround Yourself with Positive People<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="userContent">Yesterday morning as I laid in bed, I thought about staying there all day instead of attending my monthly NEORWA meeting and lunch afterwards with Claire McMillian. I am so glad I went! Although I have only known these ladies for less than a year and see that at best once a month, they are family to me. The first thing we did at at the meeting was Congratulate good news members presented from r<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show">eceiving a contract on a manuscript they wrote to a Movie Star's agent requesting a novel be flipped into a screen play. We ask, "How did you do it?" We were all genuinely happy for our other group members.<br /> Any of that sound strange to you? It probably does. Working out in the real world...my coworkers seem angry when I succeed. No one congratulates me on a job well done, or asks me how I did it. No wonder so many Americans hate their jobs and are truly unhappy.<br /> If only the world could be filled with Romance Writers!</span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-58023886260860194172013-02-23T12:33:00.001-08:002013-02-23T12:35:06.618-08:00NEORWA Cleveland Rocks Contest 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I entered both RAE AND THE RUBY SCEPTER and CANDACE'S CHOICE in the Cleveland Rocks Contest for the YA category. Submissions closed at midnight February 21st. At last count, that I know of, there were sixteen submissions for YA. Group member, Sheila Larkin, is the coordinator this year for the YA category.<br />
<br />
Although I have only been a member of the group since May 2012, I am the coordinator for the Mainstream category. I have received 34 entries. Distributed those to 68 judges, along with the judges letter, judging guidelines and scoresheets. It may sound simple, but it's not. Sometimes, judges decide they don't want to judge a particular category so you end up reshuffling the enteries amoung the judges, verifying receipt and then fielding questions as they arise. Another issue I ran into was juggling one contestants submissions as they had three related entries. I didn't want any of my judges to review more than one of because I wanted the contestant to receive the best critique she or he could.<br />
<br />
I have received a few judged entries back already as we began sending them out a week ago. I have to say, so far I would be pleased with the feedback given if I were the contestant. Mind you, some entries are not as good as others, but the judges have taken the time to explain why the score might not be as high as the contestant was hoping for. The judges have pointed out POV shifts and different ways to avoid those along with reference guides to help, run-on sentences, and the story starting in the wrong place and specifically why they felt that way.<br />
<br />
I am blessed to belong to such an amazing group.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-82886705600812202602013-02-13T06:17:00.001-08:002013-02-13T06:17:26.990-08:00Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span class="userContent">TOTALLY BUMMED...I just discovered that I didn't pass the first cut in the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award competition with a pitch for RAE. The competition was steep...10000 contestants weeded down to 400 in my category. I suppose making it to the next round would have been like winning the lottery.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-62876715593259964152013-02-10T07:43:00.003-08:002013-02-10T07:43:55.077-08:00Writers and Research<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="userContent">When writers make mistakes,you know research was neglected. Did you know Ohio teens learning to drive can't practice with just anyone?<br /> <br /> Imagine my disappointment when I read just that thing in a recently published book. On top of that, once you have your DL, you can only have one passenger with you that is not a family member.<br /> <br /> Now, I suppose these teens had more important things to worry about o<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show">ther than breaking state laws because they are zombie slayers, but still....<br /> <br /> AS A WRITER the error got under my skin. Needless to say, there were other mistakes throughout the book. Many, teens may not even notice. In my opinion it was a reckless disrespect to the art.<br /> <br /> I forced myself to finish the book. the author can be sure, I won't be reading book 2.</span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-81409715024112380822013-01-29T13:23:00.004-08:002013-01-29T13:23:38.906-08:00Contest - ABNA<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="userContent">I stumbled upon a new contest to enter the other day. This one is for all genres with only 5 categories; YA being one of them. The contest...Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award. Yes, that is the Amazon that we all know and love. I must be crazy to compete against 10k other contestants, but I did it. I entered the contest. First round is all about pitches (which I can't really share because an ed<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show">itor pitch gives away the ending). However, I can share the summary I prepared for customers and Publisher's Weekly to read before they read my first two chapters and review...if I make it past the Pitch Round.<br /> <br /> Let me know what you think...<br /> <br /> RAE AND THE RUBY SCEPTER<br /> <br /> Life unravels for fifteen-year-old Rae when she finds herself in the magical dimension of Ferane in the Eden Realm. The realms survival depends on her aid to the dying Princess Claire in her quest to find the Ruby Scepter before the dark wizard does and the Blue Moon Eclipse. Without her own magic, Rae cannot return to Earth or to Dirk, the boy she loves.</span></span></div>
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<br /> Before the unwilling Rae can remember her past, she meets Prince Mogens who causes her to doubt her feelings for Dirk. However, he seems to despise her and may very well be the dark wizard.</div>
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<br /> Mentally and physically challenged, Rae will have to trust a princess, defeat the dark wizard, and find the Ruby Scepter before time runs out.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-78602269701472580972013-01-22T07:59:00.001-08:002013-01-22T07:59:34.514-08:00POV Character Emotions <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span class="messageBody"><span class="userContent">While the weather is bitter cold in North East Ohio today, I step onto my new treedmill, turn on my music and drift off to Ferane. If only every place was magical and took away the everyday burdens that tense our muscles and make us wish we could go back to bed. When a novel can change our mood to match that of the POV character, the author has done something right. For that, I am grateful today.</span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-854046042550632982012-10-08T09:42:00.000-07:002012-10-08T09:42:00.461-07:00Third Place- 2012 HOW Contest<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Awards Ceremony was held Saturday, October 6th at the Utah RWA Conference. I placed third in the YA category. I'm happy, but sad all at the same time. Happy because my first time out, I made the finals in a writing contest. How amazing is that? Pretty damn amazing if you ask me! Then sad of course because I didn't win. How can I allow that to sadden me at all? It shouldn't. First manuscript, first contest, I can't expect to be perfect already, the next JK Rowling. What I do have, is validation that I have a nack to pull others into my world of make believe.<br />
<br />
I need to continue writing, learning and perfecting my craft. Someday, my name will be a household name. I know it.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-84974854179073939672012-09-28T17:08:00.003-07:002012-09-28T17:08:38.070-07:00HOW Romance Contest Finalist!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />While working on WIP - CANDACE, I received an email stating I am a finalist in the HOW Romance contest YA category! RAE scored an 86 and 94! (that's out of 100) I am beside myself! Now RAE is being judged by a Lit Agent from NYC! They are announcing the winners at their Conference in UT on October 6th. I'm not going so I won't find out until after that date. Wonder if I will still have any nails left by that time?</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-27171590477085722302012-09-28T17:07:00.002-07:002012-09-28T17:07:25.721-07:00WIP CANDACE'S CHOICE<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have a new WIP thanks to Candace that has been keeping me pretty busy as of late. My working title is Candace's Choice. I am so excited about this WIP because I feel so close to my characters and what I find funny is that I've only been with them for such a short while unlike WIP - Rae. These characters just magically came alive. I only knew the minimum about them, age, looks and what has made them who they are. After two weeks, I had over 280 hand written pages. Took me a little longer to finish it off because I took a few days break and then I didnt make myself write 20 pages EVERYDAY. I hand wrote 343 (going back and typing some along the way with my hubby's help) and then the end of the book I wrote on a Sunday so I sat down and typed 17 pages. Wow! Now I have to go back and type pages 279-343. Wish me luck! And then comes the editing. UGH!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-31287952098283352532012-08-19T07:42:00.004-07:002012-08-19T07:42:34.519-07:00Candace Havens' One day workshop.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I'm amazed! Candace stuffed so much new information in my brain in one eight hour day than I know what to do with! Good thing I took notes! HA-HA! She taught me that there are a lot of ways to plot my story before I begin, such as a synopsis, scene wish list, guide posts and six stage plot structure, which includes opprotunity, intising incident, point of no return, all is lost, climax and resolution.<br />
She reminded me that I we have to give our hero what they need and not what they want. That reminds me, when I wrote my first novel my heroine had the chioce of two boys, the one she knew her whole life or the new boy. I like both boys, but now I know why I picked the boy I did.<br />
Candace's workshop however, was about FAST DRAFT in TWO WEEKS. No whining, no excuses, unless you are dead or in a coma. The hardest thing to learn and perfect, if we can ever actually do that, is to turn off our internal editor. This means no going back, no looking for the perfect word, no spell check. Then let your story rest, do the research you need for editing, then enter EDITING HELL in TWO WEEKS.<br />
If you are a writer, I highly recommend this course. Desk clean, distractions eliminated, pens up, get writing.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-49935750199143759672012-07-16T16:27:00.003-07:002012-07-16T16:27:30.193-07:00The Emotions ThesaurusSeveral years back, I purchased a book on body language in hopes it would help give my characters emotions without me 'telling'. Needless to say, the book didn't not help me much, at least not in the way I wanted it too. The book talked more about power plays, stand during the meeting, have your enemy sit with their back to the door, etc., how to tell if someone is available and interested in you and more.<br />
<br />
With the book recommended by my writer's group, THE EMOTIONS THESAURUS, I can hit the trifecta in expressing a character's mood or behavior with physical signals, internal sensations, and mental responses.<br />
<br />
Take for example:<br />
<br />
Sam made Jacob mad. He knew he was lying.<br />
<br />
or<br />
<br />
Jacob loosened his collar. Being careful not to say what he really wanted to, he bite those words back. He knew Sam had kissed MaryBeth but he wouldn't get him to admit it like this.<br />
<br />
The book even gives you cues on long-tem effects of the emotion, such as anger and what other emotion it may escalate to, like rage. They even give you examples of suppressed anger. <br />
<br />
I give this book the thumbs up!<br />
<br />
You can buy the book on Amazon for $4.99.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-83258493952700616542012-07-12T16:31:00.001-07:002012-07-12T16:31:30.168-07:00First Publisher InterestI came home from work Monday evening and found my husband in the kitchen going through the mail. He looks at me with the most seriousness I've seen in a while and says, "You're in big trouble, Missy." In his outreached hand, was postcard. I knew then I didn't go over my Kohl's limit so it must be a postcard that I slipped in with my manuscripts that I mailed out the beginning of June. <br />
<br />
So, I'm excited someone opened my manuscript. But then, I flipped over the card. Not only did I see my handwriting, but there is red ink all over it! They wrote me a note! I begin reading it, to my joy the editor not only said she was intrigued by my story but wanted to see more! I was so excited! I didn't know what to do with myself. So, like an other rationale adult female, I ran around the inside of my house happily screaming with my dog, Birdy, running and barking with me.<br />
<br />
A new cartridge of ink ($38), postage ($9.20), the knowledge that someone in the publishing field thought my first chapter and query letter were intriguing, PRICELESS!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-75733784812279282642012-07-08T14:07:00.003-07:002012-07-08T14:07:46.878-07:00ContestsI never understood the importance of writing contests until recently, but since I joined NEORWA, I understand that contests are another way to present your work to the experts. Whether they are an editor or agent, I couldn't think of a better way to showcase your work because editors and agents who are judges are seeking a particular book to publish and since there are a limited number of entries, this gets you out of the slush pile! Now, I wouldn't go and enter all the contests just because, instead, I would enter the contest that appeal to you and have judges that you want to see your work that may not otherwise see it.<br />
<br />
I have listed a few contests that peak my interest from the latest ROMANCE WRITERS REPORT:<br />
<br />
Kathryn Hayes "We Need a Hero", Fee $25-30, Deadline: Sept 10, 2012, <a href="http://www.rwanyc.com/">www.rwanyc.com</a><br />
Launching a Star Contest, Fee $25-30, Deadline: Sept 15, 2012, <a href="http://www.authorsofromance.com/">www.authorsofromance.com</a><br />
2012 Heart to Heart, Fee $15-20, Deadline: Aug 31, 2012, <a href="http://www.sfarwa.net/">www.sfarwa.net</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Also, I have listed below the elements and grading scale of contests.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Scoring: </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">5 = Excellent, ready for an editor’s eyes. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">4 = Well done, minor improvement may be possible <br />
<br />
3 = Element lacks spark or could use polishing <br />
<br />
2 = Element there, but should be strengthened/revised. <br />
<br />
1 = Element missing or needs major work. <br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">Writing Techniques </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total possible: 25 points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">____ Strong Opening Hook <br />
<br />
____ Consistent use of Point of View <br />
<br />
____ Transitions <br />
<br />
____ Word usage, strong verbs, specific nouns, free of clichés <br />
<br />
____ Rhythm (Varied sentence structure, readability) <br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">____</span></span></b><span style="font-size: small;">Total Points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">Setting </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total possible: 25 points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">____ A strong sense of place and time without being intrusive <br />
<br />
____ Accurate Research/Details <br />
<br />
____ Backstory/Information relayed is necessary <br />
<br />
____ Atmosphere appropriate for story <br />
<br />
____ Starts in appropriate place <br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">____ </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total Points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">Characterization </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total possible: 25 points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">(Heroine or Primary character)___________________ <br />
<br />
____ Distinctive voice <br />
<br />
____ Motivation <br />
<br />
____ Multi-dimensional/Well-rounded <br />
<br />
____ Consistent/Believable <br />
<br />
____ Appropriate Actions/Reactions <br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">____ </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total Points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">Characterization </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total possible: 25 points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">(Hero or Secondary character)____________________ <br />
<br />
____ Distinctive voice <br />
<br />
____ Motivation <br />
<br />
____ Multi-dimensional/Well-rounded <br />
<br />
____ Consistent/Believable <br />
<br />
____ Appropriate Actions/Reactions <br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">____ </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total Points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">Relationship </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total possible: 15 points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">____ Attraction believable <br />
<br />
____ Sparks from emotional as well as physical attraction <br />
<br />
____ Develops at an appropriate pace <br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">____ </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total Points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">Conf l ict </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total possible: 20 points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">____ Strong enough to sustain the story <br />
<br />
____ Wel l -mot ivated <br />
<br />
____ Internal , very clear <br />
<br />
____ External , very clear <br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">____ </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total Points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">Dialogue </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total possible: 25 points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">____ Sounds natural <br />
<br />
____ Characters have their own consistent voices <br />
<br />
____ Appropriately tagged (Both amount and kinds of tags) <br />
<br />
____ Advances the plot/reveals character <br />
<br />
____ Wel l balanced wi th the narrat ive <br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">____ </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total Points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">Manuscript Preparat ion </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total possible: 20 points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">____ Grammar <br />
<br />
____ Punctuat ion <br />
<br />
____ Spel l ing <br />
<br />
____ Proper format (Double spaced, margins, headers, font size, e tc.) <br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">____ </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total Points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">Plot </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total possible: 25 points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">____ Easi ly understood chronology <br />
<br />
____ Logical <br />
<br />
____ Characters goals and act ions advance the story <br />
<br />
____ Consistent Tone <br />
<br />
____ Sat isfactory Pacing <br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">____ </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total Points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">Synopsis </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total possible: 25 points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">____ Appropriate amount of detai l for the proposed length <br />
<br />
____ Shows character/relat ionship change or growth <br />
<br />
____ Bel ievable and sat isfactory conf l ict resolut ion <br />
<br />
____ Loose ends t ied up <br />
<br />
____ Does the synopsis make you want to read the book? <br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">____ </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total Points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">Overal l Impression </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total possible: 20 points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">____ Wri t ing is fresh and original <br />
<br />
____ Strong Emot ional Impact <br />
<br />
____ Great ending Hook <br />
<br />
____ I would l ike to read the rest of this book <br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">____ </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Total Points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;">________ </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Rockwell,Rockwell; font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Grand Total Points Total possible: 250 points </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000145175119302029.post-71979695625816792782012-06-22T10:42:00.000-07:002012-06-22T10:42:16.330-07:00SuicideDo you know someone at risk for suicide right now? Chances are you do. We are in the worst recession since the Great Depression of the 1930's wherein suicides jumped from 12.1 per 100,000 to 18.9. The average number of suicides in modern times jumped from 33,000 Americans per year to a staggering 1.1 million suicide attempts in the year 2008!<br />
<br />
With numbers like that, I imagine you are going through a checklist of your family and friends. You are wondering who is at risk and who is not. People think of suicide as a last resort, when all hope has vanished. They see no way to make the pain in their heart or mind to go away, or the physical pain is to much to bear especially since the medical community is unable or unwilling to help, or it maybe the financial burden they find themselves in.<br />
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I once had a wise friend that told me he had no respect for people who commit suicide. At first I thought how harsh and rude. How can you say that about someone when you don't know the pain they were going through? I mean, come on! Some people just aren't that strong.<br />
<br />
He said suicide is a cop out. The harm you cause to the ones who love you is much greater than the pain you endure in silence. As I thought about his words, they began to sink in. I thought about my own family and how something like that would affect them. I have to say, it would be a scar that would never heal. They would live their whole life with that pain just below the surface.<br />
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I suffer from cluster migraines - the female version. Cluster migraines have been nicknamed the suicide headache. Yes, that is right. Clusters are not like normal migraines, they are much worse. I know what you are saying, a normal migraine can last 3 days with no sign of ending. I'd agree with you, I've had them and they are not fun. Clusters, heck they only last about 15 minutes two or three times a day. So what's the big deal? I used to wonder the same thing.<br />
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Well, let's start with the fact they happen everyday for 6-12 weeks, then you have the inability to lie down when you are having an episode because the pain increases tenfold. Sitting down doesn't help much either. Now let's trying pacing the room. Ah, that's better. Except I'm dizzy and my eyes are out of focus. Then there are the hallucinations when they are at their worst. Is it real or is it not?<br />
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The point is, I made it through. Although God did not seem close at hand during the time, I know he was there. He saved me when I could take no more. When other doctors insisted on pushing new, high dollar drugs down my throat and the insurance company wouldn't approve a different doctor to care for me, I went out on my own and paid for a doctor who would listen to what I said about the way I felt and what my suspicions were. She diagnosed me within five minutes of being in her office and took me off all my medications in order to detox me.<br />
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I'm alive and well today because of her.<br />
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I have two friends right now that are depressed. One has mentioned thinking about ending it, the other, I know went as far as pulling the trigger...just decided to miss and hit the wall instead. The source of their pain? Physical, and mental, a feeling of inadequacy. We've had many talks and I'm confident neither of my friends will leave me; they understand the consequences.<br />
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They also know they need to look at the positive. Find one thing they love to do and make sure they make time for it every day. We have to look at the positive. For me, the cup is always half full, not half empty.<br />
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I was recently informed that my cousin Marty, who I haven't seen in nearly 20 years committed suicide last month, the day before the 2nd anniversary of his mother's death. My heart is saddened that he couldn't find one thing worth living for. From the bottom of my heart, Marty, I'm sorry for not being there for you.<br />
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Think, the next time someone cuts you off on the freeway, getting into the elevator, being next in line at the grocery store. Instead of being angry and trying to let them know that, try a smile. Maybe it will be contagious.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13282723529150892633noreply@blogger.com0