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Seasons of Writing

2011-08-05T18:45:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

I just finished my first book titled Seasons of Writing. During my years of working hard on my novel (still ongoing), I was able to give birth to a small but helpful non-fiction book. It's light, fun and filled with humor along with some helpful hints if you've ever toyed with the idea of writing.

And even if you never thought of becoming a writer, it's still a must-read. You can purchase my book on Amazon.com at a low price of $2.99. Just follow the link below.

Thank you all for your continued support.

You can purchase my latest book Seasons of Writing on sale now athttp://www.amazon.com/Seasons-of-Writing-ebook/dp/B005FB4BEA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1312423054&sr

Where Do I Turn Now?

2010-11-01T19:40:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had explicit directions and still managed to get lost. On the seat next to you are printouts from Mapquest, Google Map, and a globe so huge, it's blocking your side-view mirror. And just to be sure, your car comes equipped with the latest navigational system.

I know I have the tools to make it as a successful writer. I've always been an avid reader so I understand the principals of starting a novel... 'read and study the genre you're interested in writing.

When I was in school and was majoring in Screenwriting, I took creative writing classes, worked on outlines and character descriptions. I wrote short stories and poetry; all in preparation for that day when I would actually sit down and type that last sentence... The End.

When my novel was done, I made sure I was prepared before I mailed out any query letters. First I draft and redraft and wrote and rewrote. Next I edited and edited and then re-edited.

I brought the latest Writer's Market Guide then went online and checked out agency's websites on submission guidelines. I visited writer's groups, gave chapters to friends to read. Recently I even spent hundreds of dollars on a writer's conference.

But for the life of me, I feel more stagnant than ever. I feel like those little whined-up dolls that just go around and around in circles or the ones that you push to go straight and when they hit a wall, their little feet just keep on moving while their bodies go nowhere.

I'm at a point where I want to just toss everything and move to Montana. Why Montana? because when my friends and family try to look for me, I know it will be the last place they would think of. They know I hate the cold.

Today I feel like I am at the end of my rope. On Sunday's I'm already hyperventilating just thinking about another week at a job that is beating the life out of me and where the only thing I can do is think about what I want to write or do about writing. I'm zapped by the end of the day.

And by the end of the week, I don't want to look at a computer or think about anything else until the next Monday.

But damn if I'm going to keep complaining and complaining about not having enough time to do what I need to do.

I got to get out. So I'm coming up with a plan. A plan that will get me to writing at least a couple days a week. A plan that will get me blogging at least once every other week. A plan that will get me to send out a query letter or look up some information on an agency or publishing company. And a plan to redraft my book again so I can move it along to an editor who will help me get to the next avenue.

Simply put... the plan is to move my butt into a position where I am doing something every week to reach that goal.

After all, if I can find the energy to complain about my circumstances, I can find the energy to do what needs to be done.

I can keep traveling down the same rocky road and keep triping over those same stupid rocks or I can move them out of my way. The most important thing to remember is that I can't move those rocks all at once but I can sure move them one day at a time.

If you decide to use my method, remember to lift with your legs.

Write, Type, Scribble or Text - Just Do It!

2010-10-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

I aways hear creative folks say to keep a pad near your bed for ideas. I've tried this technique a few times but when I wake up during the night and have an idea, writing it down is not my first thought. Can I hold it is my first. (I drink a lot of fluids during the day) My next...how long will it take me to go back to sleep.

I don't keep what you might call a typical journal. I've tried that routine a few times and it just doesn't do it for me. I have writing pads and pieces of papers where I've written down my thoughts over the years. I've even taken note of what my writer-friends use to keep ideas in front of them. Some use those huge calendar/blotters on their desk. Others have little post-its all around their computer and walls. Some keep journals and neat pads and for the techie, it's an ipod or ipad with perfect bullet points.

The problem with my note taking is remembering where I've put them after I've written them down. Weeks, months or even a few years later I'll come across something I've written down and then I say for the umpteenth time, I need to get better at keeping my thoughts organized.

Because I have a day job, I can't afford to be loose with my written thoughts and ideas. More importantly, if I want to become a successful writer, I need to build on these ideas.

I'm sure I'm not the only writer that picks up a book, sees a new television series or hears of a new movie coming out and say, "Damn, I had the same idea. If only..." If only is for losers and I ain't no loser. Or am I...

After You've Done All You Can - Part II

2010-10-02T16:47:00.000-07:00

Some days. No, let me rephrase that. Daily, I think of writing. And what I think about the most is when I'll be able to write full-time and when I'll be able to make a living as a story-teller. Often, it's bits of new ideas that float around in my head duking it out with each other with the winner hoping to make their debut onto paper.

Unfortunately, these ideas disappear with the beginning of another busy day at work. And I keep telling myself (justifying) that it's OK not to write daily. That even though I daily pray for a career of writing and don't write, God will see my heart and bless me.

But then I get real. God can only help those who help themselves and right now I am not writing so why would He help me?

There was a time when I would stay up til two or three in the morning just writing. Now, I make excuses; I work long hours, I'm exhausted when I get home. I turn on the TV because it relaxes me.

But then I hear about the tons of successful writers who speak about getting up at dawn to write for at least an hour or two which only depresses me more because though these ideas taunt me in the early hours, I just want to go back to sleep.

Lack of motivation could be one of the reasons. After finishing my novel, I felt drained. Not by the writing itself but the next step. The hours it takes to research agents and publishing companies and the many rules dictated by those companies. The drafting of query letters followed by mailing those letters. Then, the constant silence of waiting followed by the stream of rejections. This brings me to the brink of believing I've done all I can. But I know that's not true.

So I begin a list of what to do:

Do another search for agents and publishers
Look into attending a writing conference
Ways to improve my query letter
Ways to improve my book
Research and enter writing contest
Network with other writers

It's important to be your own voice, cheerleader, and ass kicker to motivate getting back on track.

In part III, I'll tell you how I decided not to just make a list, but to complete everything on that list.

Here's to making lists!

After You've Done All You Can - Part I

2010-08-29T17:36:00.000-07:00

How do you know when you've done everything you can after you've finished your book?

There are plenty of books that tell you how to prepare after your manuscript is done. They give you a list of agents and publishers who are interested in your genre, provide you information on self-publishing and how to write a query letter.

But none of them mention the fear that often comes when you've finished that book and the silence that comes after you've written the last line and your characters have spoken their last word.

And the most significant question...can I do it again?

After a few months of decompressing from writing my first novel, I sat down to work on my next and guess what? Nothing came. I was lost on what to do next.

There was a time when words just floated out of me...poetry, short stories, scripts but now I was lucky if I could write a general email. I was empty. And I wasn't sure what to do about it.

At first I had a pity party. I told myself, this is it. There's nothing more to give. I read over things that I had written and wept at how good it felt when it flowed but I would never again know that feeling.

This went on for months. I would come up with wild ideas on what to write...should it be drama, love, comedy, thrillers? Eventually, I finally pulled myself out of it. How did I do it?

First, I told myself to calm down because I didn't want my writing to come from forced ideas or desperation. Next, I decided to do some leisurely reading.

After a short period I again sat down at the computer and I asked myself a very important question--what if an agent or publisher ask me what I have to offer besides that one book, what can I tell them.

The answer was clear; stay with the genre I love and start from there. That helped me to start work on a new outline for my second book and I was even able to come up with an idea for a third.

It's important to take some time for yourself after you've written a major piece of work. Writing takes a lot out of you and can leave you feeling like a damp cloth (you know that there is more water but no matter how much you squeeze that cloth, nothing else will come out.

I'm sure there are writers who can start on a project right after they've finished one. I'm just not one of them.

There is no one formula. Just remember to always utilize the one that works for you.

Don't Ignore Your Writing Voice

2010-08-21T17:48:00.000-07:00

I'm mentally trying to get back to where I used to be 3-years ago; where I wrote almost daily. Now with another new chapter in my life (do we go through a rewrite every 10-years), it's another stumbling block.

After I was out of work for 4 months, I landed a job with a video game company. The dilemma; it's a permanent one.

Doing temp work for over 10+ years, my body went into shock when I had to come up with yearly goals and go through quarterly reviews. My goal is have a successful career as a story-teller and during the reviews when they ask me where I see myself, that is what I want to say.

But I keep that other little voice quiet and I tell them what I think they want to hear that will keep me on the job another week, month, or God forbid a year until my dream turns into an actuality.

Just 'bout every temp job that I've had wanted me to stay on. I try my best to do a great job no matter what my goals are. But I can't help but daydream about the day I can hear those words from a publisher..."We want to keep you on as a client."

This job is no different and because it's a permanent one, I feel more obligated.

Now over 2-years later, I have an opportunity to head-up a new project which will come with a promotion and more responsibility.

When my boss first proposed me heading this process, I almost hyperventilated in his office. Then, I went home and cried feeling defeated. I was also fearful to tell friends--afraid that they would tell me that it was probably God's will.

But I finally snapped out of it. I realized that if I was not happy about this, if it did not stop me in my tracks and did not make me do a u-turn about about starting a new career, then what was the problem.

Every opportunity that comes your way does not mean the end of your passion; your dreams. It could just be a way to make extra money. It could teach you skills that you may need to use when you finally get to where you want to be.

Don't let it get you twisted into thinking this is the end if this happens to you. Now of course if you get an offer or an opportunity and you're excited about it, then go for it.

However, if it stops your heart or makes you want to toss your cookies, then pay attention. It's your inner voice telling you that this is not your final destiny.

Make sure you don't ignore it!

Better the Second Time Around

2010-08-15T14:36:00.000-07:00

In my last blog, I mentioned that I hadn't written anything since 2007 but I didn't say why.

I've been a temp/contractor for over ten years. During those years when an assignment was over, I'd take a few weeks off then look for a new one. I love the idea of temping. Because the jobs were only temporary, I felt free to write, to think about my writing and often depending on the job, the freedom to write in the office during slow periods. It never mattered that the assignment was one, two or even three year just the idea of not working as a permanent employee made me feel unfettered.

But in November of '07 when my contract job was over I found myself out of work for four months. During that time, I was evicted from my apartment and ended up staying with my friend's son sleeping on an air mattress in their home office for almost two months.

People may think that with four months of being out of work you have lots of free time to write and in a way, that is true. However, I was so choked up with fear and anxiety about being out of work, I could barely find the strength to write on my blog. I did however continue writing for a dating advice website.

Those three years had not lessened the desire to write just the ability. Finally back on my feet, I'm still a bit shaky. And now I'm challenged with a new fear. Do I still have what it takes to become a successful writer?

While looking through my writings from only a few years back (my novel is finished, a screenplay, short stories and some poetry) I am amazed how lyrical I was; even questioning if those lines really came from me.

So for the last few months I've written in small doses--a poem here, an outline there; afraid to go full blown but still pushing myself to get back to where I was or to be even better.

I'm sure I'll get there but some days, I wonder.

Buried Alive

2010-08-14T16:19:00.000-07:00

December, 2007... The last time I’ve written anything on my blog. I've gone through a few journeys during these almost 3 years; some that have increased my faith and made me stronger, while others have completely tore me down to a mere shell. Both have made me aware of who I am as a person--stronger and more passionate than ever before about life and the goals I have dreamt of achieving. During these voyages, I've completely buried my writing. Like treasures that float down with a sinking ship, my God-given talents have recessed. By resurrecting this blog, I hope to once again be where I used to be. Writing daily and enjoying that excitement of seeing those black words prance on that white background.

This blog was and still is intended to help writers communicate about their writing struggles. Life can stop you dead in your tracks, knock you on your ass, and keep you from that goal of writing daily.
The ability to write; my passion and love for writing during those times was still alive; struggling to be liberated; to break to the surface.
Am I completely free yet from these struggles? No, but I'm fighting to get back to where I was; a born storyteller, dying to share with the world the stories that are constantly floating in my head and are looking to make their debuts on a bookstore shelf or an HBO special.

Therefore, my promise is to take it one day at a time, to not beat myself up during this struggle and to share those struggles.

Here’s to doing this together…

Reading is More Than Fundamental

2007-12-24T14:13:00.000-08:00

One of my fondest memories growing up besides eating mudpies was reading. I always had a book in my hand. Even in school when the teacher would call on someone to read, I would be the first to raise my hand.

My parents, specifically my father were also advent readers and I remember how we would sit in the living room reading our books. I remember loving to read way before I realized I wanted to be a writer.

Recently, I came across a bio about one of my favorite authors Mary Higgins Clark and the moment when she decided to become a writer. Someone told her to write what she loved to read. She discovered she loved reading mysteries, which is why she is one of the number one mystery writers in the country today.

You cannot be a good writer unless you have a passion for reading. Forget about the excitement that comes from reading a great novel (I know it’s good when I’m sad that it’s ending), but also what you can learn from reading a good book.

Whether you’re a fiction or non-fiction writer, reading your genre can help you in a few ways. It can motivate you to write, it can help you be more creative with dialog and character building and in the end, help you to become a better storyteller. You can also identify and target agents and publishers who you know are interested in your specific genre.

It was easier to pick up a book when I lived in New York because I was constantly riding either the metro or subway. In California, it’s a little more challenging because I drive more and though I’m often busy working on my various writings, I still try to make time for reading. I have what I call my summer reads; where I will read a certain amount of books before the season is over or read more when my schedule slows down.

Reading a good book always gets my creative juices flowing whether I’m reading a how-to book from Joel Olsteen or reading a simmering southern cuisine from J. California Cooper. It keeps me apprised of what is out there while also giving me the motivation to get out there myself. So make sure you take out the time to read not just for the joy of it, but because of the lift it can give you. You never know when someone will want to read one of your books for the same reason.

Writing is a Career, Not a Hobby

2007-12-02T14:09:00.001-08:00

This article is targeted to the friends, family, and associates of someone who is aspiring to be a writer. I recently reconnected with a friend of mine after a few years. We spoke for awhile catching each other up on what's been happening in our lives. I shared with him my experiences since I've moved to Southern California, along with the many opportunities and goals achieved in regards to my writing such as the film I co-wrote, 'Spin' that's been in more than a few film festivals and has won an award, my finished screenplay and my novel. I then decided to email him links to where he could read some of my writings including this blog.

His comment was "I think that you are a good writer, and that journaling and sharing are great activities."

The word activity threw me. I've never thought about my writing as an activity. It also made me think of my other friends who don't understand the work or the hours it goes into becoming not just a writer, but a successful one.

After a full days work, I must take a few hours no matter how tired I am to write either on my screenplays, short stories or novel. Then I search the web to see if there might be some freelance writing jobs that can pay me enough to where I can concentrate on my writing full-time instead of working in an office.

Then I search for writing contests or blogs where I can enter some of my writings or write for a blog to get my name out there as a writer and to bring in a little more money. There is also the searching a writer must do to keep themselves in the know like what's the latest in the world of publishing, screening writing, etc.

Plus, there is also the mailings and emailing of your sample writings and resume which can bring on a stream of rejections. Does any of this sound like it might be just a mere activity?

My friend back east might not understand the hours I put into my writing and why, but my friends here in California should. Just as much as I respect them for their jobs and careers is the same respect I want for mine.

So when your friends and family need a few hours a day to write or even weekends, please remember they're not just working on a hobby, but they are trying to build a career.

What are some of your writing struggles?

The Journey to Creativity

2007-11-23T14:46:00.000-08:00

We are definitely living in a world where patience is no longer an admired virtue and immediacy is the name of the game. Dial-up is out and DSL is in. Snail mail is passé and text messaging and instant email is the fastest way to connect, and we no longer mop, but Swift clean.

Last week, I was flipping through channels and came upon this infomercial advertising this new equipment that allows you to create music. After the creator showed the well-versed host what the average person could do, she said excitedly, “Wow, instant gratification to creativity.”

Why would someone want creativity to be instant, I thought? Isn’t the process of creativity; the inspiration, the vision, the conception all a part of the journey?

This made me think of writing and how often it can be a very slow process. I know that there are sites that show you how to complete a novel in 30-days and in away I could see it being helpful, however for me it would ruin the progression.

Writing a novel or a screenplay can be slow, but necessary for the development of the story. Flushing out your character descriptions, your chapter outlines, along with drafts and many edits, could lead to a few years before you even see your piece come into fruition. For me that's part of the journey.

Don't get me wrong, I like that the world keeps progressing. Most of the time I like to use my Swift instead of a mop. But I know that if I really want a thorough cleaning, I need to use a regular mop or even get down on my hands and knees so that I can reach every nook and cranny.

The same goes with writing. There are times where I might not have enough time to spend on my writing say for instance if I'm working on an article for a client. Regardless, I still have to make sure it's letter perfect and eye catching to the readers. But when it comes to my creative writings I take my time because I want my reader to take their time when reading my stories so that it won't be just an instant gratification read, but a long simmered experience, a fulfilled and satisfying type of gratification, way after the story is over.

What type of writer are you?

Knowing Your Writing Voice

2007-11-11T16:32:00.000-08:00

Recently, I started writing for an online dating and relationship site. Always excited when I have the opportunity to share my writing with a larger audience, I quickly told my network of writing friends to check out the site.

Unfortunately, that excitement was short lived, when one of the writers stated that my article among other things did not have my voice and suggested that topic be my next article on my blog.

Not one to run from criticism, I asked my writer friends (those who would give me honest feedback) to give me their critiques. All said they loved the article including the publisher.

But still the comment "know your voice' stayed with me and I wondered what does it mean to have a voice in your writing.

I believe everyone has a style that they bring to their writing. I also believe if you are truly a gifted writer, your voice can change based on your audience, based on the genre or based on the person you're writing for.

I know that my writing has a style that is often lyrical, comical, always personal and always introspective. But when it comes to having a voice it can be dark, controversial, thought-provoking and moving because I can pull from many periods in my life.

My writing is not one-dimensional, but many. It is not based on one color, but is a multitude. It is not based on a simple backdrop, but many settings. Restricting yourself to one voice can limit you in your writing.

Just like when writing a screenplay or novel, you have many characters and each of those characters must have a different voice based on their gender, race, or even their cultural background. Would you want to write everyone with the same voice... no of course not. So why should your writing be any different.

Your thoughts...

Lonely but Never Alone

2007-10-07T15:04:00.000-07:00

I grew up as an only child, so for the most part, I've always managed to entertain myself. My parents liked to take long road trips on the weekends, and often we would end up at a place that had nothing but adults so I had to find ways to keep from being bored.

As I became older, and started working in corporate America, I found that companies wanted someone who was a team player, so I had to conform. And when I eventually wanted a career instead of a job, my first choice was to become a singer. However, whether you're a part of a group or a soloist, you're never alone. You're either surrounded by background singers or musicians and of course your audience.

But when you decide that you want to have a career as a writer, you've probably come to the realization that there will be many days and nights of isolation and unless you've decided to co-write a novel or a screenplay, being alone is the standard existence for writers.

Because I grew up as an only child, the thought of being isolated when I decided to switch my career goals to writing did not bother me in the least. I can't write when there are others around, because I need complete peace. Often I may stay at work when everyone leaves instead of going home. My friends constantly ask me why I choose to write at work and when I try to explain to them that the constant walking of my neighbors above me, the passing by of loud music from cars, the sound of music or television coming from a neighbor's apartment or even children playing on the streets can become a distraction for me, some don't get it.

So mostly I crave the loneliness, but there are a few times where it becomes unendurable leaving me a little gloomy.

That's when my characters come alive and I spend hours with them and eventually they become my best friends and the loneliness disappears.

So next time you find yourself getting a little dispirited from your writing seclusion, talk to your characters. Just like spending time with your friends and family, it can help you find out many things about them including; their personalities, traits, likes and dislikes and basically what makes them who they are. Then the solitude will disappear and as a bonus you'll end up with richer and more rounded characters.

How do you handle the loneliness of writing?

Hey, I'm going to Disneyland

2007-09-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

I'm not actually going to Disneyland, but I used to love the commercials where the football player who made more touchdowns in a Superbowl or a baseball player who made more hits in a World Series was asked by a reporter "where are you going after this" and he would say excitedly "to Disneyland."

Well if you ask most writers where they want to go after they've sold there first novel they will probably say Oprah. After all who wouldn't want their book to be read by millions of readers.

Well recently I was told a story about a young girl who wrote a book and optioned it to a well-known production house for a million dollars. However she didn't scream "I'm going to be on Oprah!" She said she wanted to be on the Daily Show.

After all, being on Oprah would be wonderful for any writer. I mean she's great and I adore her and I think she is fabu. But for me, if I had to choose a talk show to be on, I would choose Ellen.

Ellen is so enjoyable to watch and she makes me laugh each and every time. And believe me with the struggles of writing, including the hours of isolation, the many rejections, not to mention the 9-to-5 pressures, what I will need to do the most when I sell my novel is to be up on stage dancing and chatting away with Ellen.

So Ellen, try to stay on the air as long as you can, because I'mma commin'!

Something Old, Something New

2007-09-29T13:16:00.000-07:00

I love going through stories that I've written years ago and seeing how my writing style has changed. I like to think back on where I was mentally when I wrote a certain story or poem. Often I'm amazed how some of the words are almost lyrical and I can't believe they actually came from me or sometimes I read them and wonder what the heck I was thinking.

Although I'm a big believer in leaving things in the past, I don't agree when digging up old writings. I'm sure there are many of you who may have written a short story, a great essay, a poem or even a novel and thought it wasn't good enough so you tucked it away. Or maybe you did send it to a few writing contests, agents or even a publisher and it got rejected. But so what?

Just like in any other business, writing is ever-changing and people's taste are often fickle and vary with the times. A story that might not have been interesting a few years back, may be exciting today.

So don't be afraid to dust it off, make a few edits or add a few more characters. Start sending it out again. Hey you never know!

To find out more about writing contest, check out these great links!

http://www.writersdigest.com/contests/
http://www.pw.org/
http://newpages.com/npguides/litmags.htm
http://fictionwriting.about.com/

A Writing Process...What's That?

2007-09-09T14:08:00.000-07:00

I love reading suggestions from established authors on the processes of writing. Recently, while sitting under a very hot dryer at my hairdresser's salon, I came across an article by Walter Mosley. It was a great article and after reading the small excerpt, I decided I would buy it.

Walter's book discusses the avenues of novel writing and I would love to comment about each one of the steps, however one of his steps really stuck out; he suggest writing every day. I've read other articles or books on writing, and that is a common statement. Could this be possible, I wonder? Is that how they were able to have a career as a writer?

Mosley states that the first thing he does in the morning is write and he writes 3-hours a day. Wow, 3 hours a day? That would mean that I would have to start writing at 4:30am before work and that would be hard for me 'cause I loves gettin' my sleep on!

Then I start thinking about these authors and their lives and I wonder how they were able to pull it off. Did they have a full-time job, do they have kids and were they able to work at home? Did they have a husband or wife or significant other who let them take time off to write or were they financially able to write full-time? Or did they have daily struggles and obstacles, but still had the drive and the passion to write daily?

Even though Walter Mosley mentions the circumstances that might keep you from writing daily, he states that he doesn't have an answer for how to get around them and how could he? We each have our obstacles.

I don't think there is one single writing process. I believe it's different for each author. I've written short stories, poetry, screenplays and am now working on my novel. For each story I've written, I was always at a different stage of my life. I've been out of work and written. I've been working full time and going to school and written and I've had the opportunity to work at home and written. But I've also had all those things and never wrote a thing.

Do I agree with the many authors who say you should write everyday? Possibly, especially if you are trying to finish that novel or screenplay. Especially if you feel that if you work one more 9-5 job you're going to loose your ever lovin' mind. Especially if you want to see the fruits of your labor come into fruition. And especially if you want to be able to make a living as a writer.

So I will try to write daily and if I can't, I won't stress myself out. But what I will do is try not to miss more than 2 days because for my own mental state, how can I afford not to write?

For more information on writing see links below:

Walter Mosley, This Year You Write Your Novel

The Writer's Digest

Spring Forward or Fall Back

2007-09-05T17:38:00.000-07:00

Spring Forward, Fall Back is a cute way to remember what time to set your clock to when DST (Daylight Savings Time) sneaks upon us. My mother taught it to me when I was younger and I still remember it to this day.

September always reminds me of this little saying especially when I wake up around 6:00am and it's still a little dark or if I'm driving home around 7:00pm and the sun is setting.

However, this time it made me think of another popular saying my mother used to say... make sure you have something to fall back on.

In school, I sang in the choir actually winning an award in music when I graduated high school. As I got older, I used to perform at weddings and other functions. I loved to perform. But after graduation and it came time for me to go to college, I settled for an easy major; secretarial science. Who ever even heard of secretarial science? Regardless, I took my mother’s advice and learned how to type so I would have something to fall back on.

But fall-back wasn't just a phrase my mother created because I would hear it from others. I remember having a long conversation with my best friend's husband about his parents making that comment in regards to him wanting to be a drummer. For him the word fall-back meant giving up his passion and settling for a nice respectable job. No one had ever broke it down for me like that. But even after that conversation, I still went on to use my fall-back for 12 years.

The phrase "Fall-Back" means that you've given up and now you can "fall-back" to the safe and familiar. Don't get me wrong. I definitely believe that while you're working on your writing or whatever your passion is and if you're like me and you need to pay the bills, then by all means get that day job.

However, don't fall-back on it. The problem with that advice is that if you’re not careful, you’ll look twenty-years down the line and realize you used that little valuable tool as a crutch.

Working at a 9-5 job can definitely turn into a fall-back. It's familiar, a steady income, most have benefits and it provides a stable environment. Unless you already have a stable career as a writer these attributes are very attractive.

But when I have to work full-time I make sure I keep the word temporary in my mind. I stay focus by writing as much as I can in my spare time so it will help me keep my eye on the prize...a career as a full-time writer.

So instead of looking on what I can fall-back on, I concentrate on springing-forward. After all, isn't that what us writers are supposed to do?

Do you have any Fall-Back Stories?

Please share...

Happy Writing!

SMB

From Creating to Preparing - The Transition Process

2007-08-31T13:09:00.000-07:00

Often writers believe that when they’ve finished writing their story, it’s ready to be sent out. That could not be any further from the truth. Writing the story is just the beginning. There are many important items that need to be done before an agent, publisher or magazine will even think about looking at your work. Years ago, a writer could send there work as is, and a story editor or line editor would be waiting on the side-lines with red pen in hand. But no longer. Structure, style, formatting, and most importantly grammatical perfection are now the name of the game.

Below is a short bullet proof list of steps to take in regards to sending out your work:

Appearance
When submitting a manuscript for possible publication, you can increase its chances of making a favorable impression by adhering to some fairly standard matters of physical format. Most standards formats are based on common sense, but some formats need to be followed depending on the editor’s taste (Writer’s Market 2007.)

Format for Text Pages
Always double-space your manuscript and use standard paragraph indentations of five spaces. Margins should be about 1 1/2 inches on all sides of each full page of manuscript.

Title Page
Center the title in capital letters one-third of the way down the page. Set your word document to double-space. Type “by” and your name centered one double-space beneath that. After the title and byline, drop down two double-spaces, paragraph indent and begin the body of your manuscript. If you are submitting novel chapters, leave the top one-third of the first page of each chapter blank before typing the chapter title

Headers and Footers
On every page after the first, type your last name, a dash and the page number in either the upper left or right corner. The title of your manuscript may, but need not, be typed on this line or beneath it. Page number two would read: Brooks—2. “Title of Book”

Blessings and happy writing!

SMB

How To Trust That Your Manuscript Is Finished

2007-08-26T13:59:00.000-07:00

While blogging on Craigslist I came across a person who asked the question "Do you ever feel that your writing is not good enough?" I wanted to scream, "Yes of course!". I can't imagine that even the most established writer doesn't sometimes go through those feelings. But when we come across this problem, we have to break through it because if we don't, we may end up with years of half written stories with no endings.

Below are a few suggestions that I hope will get you over that writing hump:

1. Read your manuscript out loud. Recording yourself, or reading to some of your trusted friends (friends that will give you valuable feedback) is very helpful.

2. Get together a group of writers and readers, invite guests to a tea or brunch and have your reader/writer friends act out or read their favorite chapters.

3. Let someone edit your work (story editor). However, hiring a professional to edit your work can be expensive. If you have a writing mentor like a English teacher, ask if he/she will be willing to work with you or if you have the money, then by all means hire one.

4. Surround yourself with other writers or join a writer's group.

5. Find out what other writers are saying about their writing experiences.

Hope these help!

Below is a list of writer's group in the Southern California area.

Los Angeles Writer's Group

Los Angeles Playwriters

Alameda Writer's Group

The Writer's Life

Happy Writing,

SMB

So You Want to be Considered a Serious Writer

2007-08-18T14:55:00.000-07:00

I personally believe everyone has a story to write, but not everyone decides to put pen to paper or in this day and age, fingers to the computer keyboard. When I decided I wanted to be not just a writer, but a successful one, I realized I had the creativity, but not the technical know how.

How to make my dream as a writer come into fruition was a big question and I also wondered how and where I'd begin? If you are just writing for the love of it, then there is no special way. However, if you want to have a career as a writer, and what I mean by that is to become published either in a magazine or write the next great novel, no matter what the genre; mystery, suspense, horror, science fiction/fantasy, romance or a particular style; short story, novella, it is important that you learn the most fundamental skills.

The library and the Internet are full of books and facts for any beginning writer to find information. But because there are so many sources, it can become a drag trying to sift through everything. For a creative person, it can also be overwhelming when all you want to do is get your story out to the reading public.

Below is a list of sources I use for information on agents, publishers, workshops and writer's networks. I hope this helps you.

Your Pen Pal,

SMB

To find out more information on fiction writing

To find out more information about literay agents

To find out more information on creative writing

To find out more about writing jobs

Never Limit Yourself as a Writer

2007-08-15T15:44:00.000-07:00

I remember a few years back watching the Queen of Soul on televisionAretha Franklin standing in for Pavarotti who was ill. I knew that Aretha could sing anything from gospel to pop, disco to jazz, but watching and hearing her perform opera (an Italian opera) was quite a surprise.

Of course she knocked it out of the ball park and received a standing ovation. But what else did I expect. I mean it is the Queen of Soul.

I recently thought about this when someone approached me about writing a proposal for a reality television series.

Immediately I said to myself, I can't. After all, I'm not a big watcher of the genre. Sure, I've watched a little of American Idol, The Apprentice and FAME, only because I'm a big fan of Debbie Allen and I've taken a class or two on the subject, but my experience is writing for film and television.

I didn't tell the person I wouldn't do it, but said I needed time to think about it. After a few weeks of deliberating, I decided yes. But I was gripped by fear. How was I going to write something I've never written before?

But then I thought that I would handle this like any other assignment. I would do my research. So I scanned the Internet and libraries and even spoke to a few writers. Unfortunately, I came up empty. I could not find anything on writing for Reality Television. That's why it's called Reality. They don't want their audience to think that it is anything but reality.

Then a week later while I'm still getting over the fact that I made a promise that I might not be able to keep, another person approached me about writing for the same genre. Two weeks later I received a call from someone else.

Even though I believe that when you're shown something 3 times, you should act on it, I still believed I couldn't do it.

It took someone talking to me about suggesting to one of the persons who approached me to find someone with more skills and the crazy thing was I was agreeing with them.

But then I had to stop and say wait a minute. I'm a writer. That definitely does not mean that I can write any and everything, but I sure can try before I tell myself or let anyone else say that I can't.

Seven years ago, I started out just having a passion for writing. In less that 3, I was published as a freelance writer and writing press releases. Five years later, I was hired as a ghost writer for a celebrity for a non-fiction book and 6 years later, I co-wrote a film with two established writers.

When you are approached by someone who is interested in hiring you as a writer, be honest about your limitations, but be very clear about the skills you do have.

I discovered that writing a reality treatment, outline or proposal is the same as writing one for television. You need to understand your key elements; target audience, premise, format, the end result, outcome and/or rewards.

So never limit yourself or let anyone else limit your abilities. Before we could walk, we had to crawl. Before we... well you get the picture.

How To Get That First Writing Gig

2007-08-13T17:02:00.002-07:00

When I first moved from New York to Los Angeles, I wasn't sure how to network when it came to writing. First of all my background was singing and in New York, it's very easy to put yourself out there as a singer. There are so many venues to showcase your talents like, open-mics and clubs where you can put on shows as long as you bring in enough people and they're willing to pay the cover charge.

But since I was new to the whole writing scene having only written song lyrics, when I moved out here I wasn't sure where to start.

Thank goodness for the Internet. I didn't think I had enough writing experience yet to apply for a typical writing job, so I did the next best thing. I interned. I started out working once a week for an award winning PR firm and although the experience in terms of management was, to say the least, undesirable, I could not have asked for a better teaching ground. At the PR firm, I was taught to write celebrity and profile pieces, press releases and to write articles quickly while still keeping your audience interested.

It also helped me to network and I got my first freelance job that paid me $3.00 an article. Sounds small, but I was so excited having only lived in California for a few months. I was proud to see my name in print.

From there, I looked for other writing opportunities. For one, my church was starting a paper and needed a few writers. With just a little experience, I volunteered and in only a few months became co-editor for the paper. Although I wasn't making any money, I was able to work on perfecting my writing craft.

By then my experience as a writer grew to where I had enough articles in my portfolio to start looking for freelance work and get paid a fair amount.

And when freelancing wasn't creative enough for me, I decided to go back to school where I took English and creative writing classes and networked with other writers.

So when considering where to get experience as a writer, don't discount interning. Although it can be for little or no money, you can still gain valuable experience.

Much love,

SMB

How To Get That First Writing Gig

2007-08-13T17:02:00.001-07:00

When I first moved from New York to Los Angeles, I wasn't sure how to network when it came to writing. First of all my background was singing and in New York, it's very easy to put yourself out there as a singer. There are so many venues to showcase your talents like, open-mics and clubs where you can put on shows as long as you bring in enough people and they're willing to pay the cover charge.

But since I was new to the whole writing scene having only written song lyrics, when I moved out here I wasn't sure where to start.

Thank goodness for the Internet. I didn't think I had enough writing experience yet to apply for a typical writing job, so I did the next best thing. I interned. I started out working once a week for an award winning PR firm and although the experience in terms of management was, to say the least, undesirable, I could not have asked for a better teaching ground. At the PR firm, I was taught to write celebrity and profile pieces, press releases and to write articles quickly while still keeping your audience interested.

It also helped me to network and I got my first freelance job that paid me $3.00 an article. Sounds small, but I was so excited having only lived in California for a few months. I was proud to see my name in print.

From there, I looked for other writing opportunities. For one, my church was starting a paper and needed a few writers. With just a little experience, I volunteered and in only a few months became co-editor for the paper. Even though at the beginning I wasn't making any money, I was able to work on perfecting my writing craft.

By then my experience as a writer grew to where I had enough articles in my portfolio to start looking for freelance work and get paid a fair amount.

And when freelancing wasn't creative enough for me, I decided to go back to school where I took English and creative writing classes and networked with other writers.

So when considering where to get experience as a writer, don't discount interning. Although it can be for little or no money, you can still gain valuable experience.

Much love,

SMB

Is Collaborating With Other Writers Always A Good Idea

2007-08-11T15:24:00.000-07:00

I've always been the independent type when it comes to working. I'm not sure if it's because I just like working alone or I have that "only child syndrome". I'm sure it's the latter.

When you go on interviews, most often the interviewer ask the question, "Are you a team player?" Of course my answer is always yes. After all, I do have to pay the bills. But in the back of my mind, I'm saying I'd rather work independently.

This brings me to writing. As a creative writer, I like writing by myself. I enjoy the solitude and the peace. Besides, I have so many other voices in my head, it often gets a little to crowded.

But awhile back I had the opportunity to collaborate with two other writers--Keta Brown and Camille Tucker on a short fiction film entitled SPIN. Having worked with their mother, Martha Tucker, author of "The Mayor's Wife Wore Sapphires" and co-editor with me for our church paper, New Dimension a publication of Faithful Central Bible Church http://www.faithfulcentral.com/ I was honored. Both had already established themselves as screenwriters in the Hollywood community.

I have to admit that it was challenging for a couple of reasons. One, not only do you have too respect each other's input, but two, you also have to respect each other's writing process.

My process was/is very different. I'm not a note taker. In most of my English courses in college I hardly ever took notes and I was never crazy about creating outlines, treatments and synopsis. I believe writing is more of a visual/mental process. However, I had to change this since I was not just dealing with my ideas, but two others.

Also we prayed before every meeting. Asking for peace, respect, harmony and God's will were very instrumental.

This collaboration became a great lesson for me. It helped me with patience which is a great asset when working on other people's projects or as a ghost writer. It also taught me that creating an outline or treatment can make you a better writer and help structure your idea into a great story.

Writing on my own individual projects is still my number one priority but working on SPIN has allowed me many open doors. So be open to work with others, but make sure they respect your input and your creativity.

For more about SPIN, please feel free to visit the website athttp://www.pneumaentertainment.com/

For more information on "The Mayor's Wife Wore Sapphires, please visit http://http://www.urbanclassicbooks.com/

Congratulations to Tamika Lamison, Director and Screenwriters, Camille Tucker, Keta Brown and Sheilah Brooks for SPIN-- winner's of The Global Art Film Festival Hollywood 2007 Awards http://http://www.gaffers.org/winners.html

Screenwriters

2007-08-08T17:09:00.000-07:00

A few years back, I sent out more than a few query letters hoping to see if I would get any nibbles on my first novel. After a few rejections, I received a positive letter from a reputable agent in NYC asking for a synopsis, then the first 3 chapters, and finally the whole book.

I was so happy about receiving a positive response, but went into panic mode when I realized that my book was not near completion. So I rushed the last 10 chapters for fear that they would move on to the next person and sent my manuscript out only to receive a letter a few short weeks later that stated my novel was not word count worthy.

This sent me into a head spin and I put the novel away for two years. I felt rejected, but most of all I feared that if I added to my novel, it would ruin the story. Although I continued to write short stories and scripts, I was afraid to touch my novel, but most of all afraid to send out any more queries or even consider entering any contests.

Now after two years I am again sending out my writings and working on lengthening my novel. A few months ago, I finished my first screenplay and decided to send it out to various contests. After a few months, I received a reject letter and realized that I had not even placed among the top 200. (ouch!)

As a freelance writer I've been published in several local magazines and papers in the Los Angeles area, but have yet had any of my creative writings published or accepted.

I say all this because I still refuse to give up. Unlike my 2 year shutdown, I got right back on the writing horse and started sending out stories once again.

As I think about what is different in me now, I have to give props to my increased faith and trust. Faith in believing in the unknown and trust that one day the seeds that I have sown will eventually come into fruition.

If you have a similar experience, be a Pen Pal and share your story.

Spiritually yours,

SMB