Motivational Gun Posters

Okay, not getting political here (so if you hate guns, post your thoughts elsewhere); however, I did think some of these were funny...in a 2nd amendment sort of way. Enjoy.

Baby Makes Three!

I have a confession, in addition to moving and job hunting, there's another reason why I've been neglecting this blog. I'm pregnant. Yep, the hubby and I are expecting our first baby on March 2nd. I wish I had a cool ultrasound picture to share with you all, but that comes in 2 more weeks at our 18 week appointment. Until then, isn't the picture of this baby adorable?

Checking In

Hello fellow Bloggers,

Just wanted to stop by and say "hi!" to all of you. I seem to be neglecting all of your wonderful blogs, but I PROMISE to get back with all of you. Soon. Like tomorrow.

And I really shouldn't feel too bad, it seems like a lot of you have been busy too!!!

I could use a NaNoWriMo

Couldn't you? I think once again this year NaNoWriMo will be perfect timing for me, as I'm currently outlining my WIP and researching away. Sometimes the camaraderie of writing with others really gets me motivated. I'm not big on the whole writer sit-ins, as I need solitude to write well, but the thought of thousands of others laboring away is quiet inspirational.

What about you? Any plans for NaNoWriMO?

Dipping my toes in

It's no secret cozies are my favorite genre, but as a writer, sometimes we have to explore new waters if we're to expand our craft. My latest WIP is a testament to that fact. The title is tentatively Blackwater Baby and it seems to be a cross literary fiction/thriller work. It's outlined in a journalism-like fashion, but who knows if that will last. Like I said, it's a work in progress.

So far the research has been eye-opening. I feel I could take this novel a million different ways and I want to make sure I choose the right one. You know, find a way to tell the best story.

It's definitely deep--full of the dark human desires and raw emotions I tend to avoid in my writing, but I'm going to hold my breath and dive in. If it doesn't work, I've always got another cozy waiting to be written :)

Once upon a time...

Stephanie started a new novel, and this novel, her third full-hearted attempt, finally granted her publishing dreams!!!

Okay, so that's what I'm hoping for anyway. It hasn't happened yet, but it will. I mean, something's gotta happen if you keep at it long enough, right? Life's not a fairytale (because if it was we'd all be published by now), but dreams do come true.

I'd like to believe it's the current state of industry that's making it so hard to break into the biz and not a sole reflection of my writing. At least that's what I'm telling myself. Focus on what you can control.

They say (philosophers and metaphysical folks) that life is about facing challenges and learning lessons. I'm not sure what lesson my trip down publishing lane is going to teach me, but I'm eager to find out.

Back to our regualarly scheduled program

Hey guys, how ya doin'?

Well, I'm finally starting to get settled in Pittsburgh after moving here last week. What a mess. Moving is no fun.

But that's behind me.

Now it's time to get back to writing. I'm working on a new novel, it's a thriller (I think) and I can't wait to get finished with this outline. More to come soon!