** Saturday Writers - Part Two **

Steve explained his reasons for writing Megan's story the way he did. He didn't want it to be the typical "Who, What, Where, When, Why & How" kind of newspaper article. He began it with the happy words Megan said to her mom about a new boy who was nice to her on My Space. His title did not include any words about suicide the way the online version does. I apologize for not remembering the title in the print version Steve brought with him. I should've written it down. He also spoke about his decision to not print the name of the neighbor who was involved in this horrible tragedy. She had a daughter Megan's age, who was once Megan's good friend, and he didn't want his article to possibly cause her to end her life, too.

There are several reasons why I enjoyed Steve's presentation. One, I haven't heard a newspaper journalist speak since I attended my first Missouri Writers Guild Conference in April of 2007. I find it so interesting to hear the ins and outs of writing columns for a paper, which is obviously much different than writing a book.
I enjoyed learning of his integrity, especially in today's world of Junk Journalism and the sick delight some people feel when they read about others' troubles. Thank you, Steve. It was a pleasure meeting you.

My buddy Sioux Roslawski agreed to be VP of Saturday Writers.

Yay, and thank you! (By the way, I'm the short one!)

(Boy, do I look like my mother in this picture! Scary!)

I won this awesome basket of chocolate goodies at the raffle.

I squealed and ran up to receive my prize as if I was on The Price is Right.

I didn't think to photograph it before I ripped off the pretty cellophane wrap!

Uh...I think there's a couple of things missing, too.

It was donated by the amazing Barb Hodges complete with one of Barb's poems!

Speaking of amazing Barb, she presented me with a little gift bag yesterday, which held these two adorable tea cups sets and Afternoon Tea book! What a sweet woman! I asked her why she was giving me a gift, and she said, "Just because". She went on to say how much she enjoys seeing the tea cups I post on my blog from time to time. Whenever I see her, she is a joyful, blissful woman. Thank you, Barb!

One more thing...Lou Turner of High Hill Press, worked night and day to get some brand new Cuivre River Anthology, Volume V books to our meeting. Isn't the cover beautiful? And look how nicely it blends in with my blue and white table lamp and blue mouse! Pat Wahler, Sioux Roslawski, Donna Volkenannt, Lou Turner and I all have a story or poem in it. I'd be happy to get their signatures, if anyone would like to buy a book or two. They'd make nice Christmas gifts! hint...hint

There are many other writers's stories, obviously, but these are the ones who have blogs or a website that you may be familiar with. The books are $16.95 and I will ship them anywhere in the US at no charge, to anyone who buys them from me. What a deal! A book with many autographs, and shipped free!

And I'll be happy to get as many signatures as I can, if someone would prefer that.

If you are interested, contact me at: Writergal53@aol.com.


P.S. I'll post my terrible poem at a later date. I don't want THAT to be what sticks in your mind, when you think about buying a book which contains a story of mine!

“To read a writer is for me not merely to get an idea of what he says, but to go off with him and travel in his company.” -- Andre Gide

** Saturday Writers - Part One **

The Saturday Writers workshop on October 30, 2010 was a huge success. We had two wonderful speakers; Susan Swartwout, publisher of Southeast Missouri State University Press, and Big Muddy: Journal of the Mississippi River Valley. And, Steve Pokin of the St. Charles County Journals. Both were very personable, answered questions, and seemed to enjoy us as much as we did them.

Susan spoke about the proper ways to submit your writing, whether it be a manuscript, essay, short story, or a magazine article. It was suprising to hear how many writers just don't do it professionally and totally ignore a publication's requirements. She had us laughing over some of the ridiculous things she's come across as an editor and publisher. One big note: If you're also a scrapbooker...DON'T stamp cutsie things all over your paper! Be professional.

At the end of her session, she had us participate in a poetry writing exercise. I won't go into all of it, but it was fun and there were some wonderful poems written. I tried to get her to accept mine to share with other classes, as an example of either How To Not Write a Poem....or Winner of the Worst Poem Contest. I could see in her eyes, she seriously considered it. Since she didn't, I'll post it at the end. (By the way, I apologize for not having a photo of Susan. I forgot to take pictures during her presentation. The link I provided, though, goes directly to a page all about Susan and contains a great photo.)

Steve writes a column titled, "Pokin Around". How perfect is that? How'd he get so lucky to be born with a name to go with his column?! His are human interest stories. The link I provided above is a good example of what he writes. I was happy to see this article, because just a week ago, I drove past the "tree" in his story, and wondered What the heck? (I am one who thinks it's a great tree.)

Steve was also the journalist who broke the story about Megan Meier, a St. Charles County teenager who committed suicide after being the subject of a cruel hoax on My Space in 2007. Steve brought copies of that edition and talked about his interviews with Megan's grieving parents during that time. His story was like the shot heard 'round the world. Surely no matter where you live, you've heard the extremely sad story.

To Be Continued.................

Friday Night of Halloween Weekend

Playlist now playing: What Child is This? (aka: Greensleeves.) I love this song, and the harp is so beautiful. Anyone who's known me for a long time, knows that when the first really cold days arrive, I dig out some Christmas music to play! It makes me happy!☺

Welcome to my 2 newest followers: Sierra Godfrey & Traci Harrell! Thank you so much. I hope you enjoy what you read and see!
List of Calls for Submissions & Contests:
Whispering Angels Books is now accepting stories for an upcoming book. Deadline is March 15, 2011.
Wisdom Has a Voice: accepting daughters memories of mothers, or mother figure. Deadline February 1, 2011.
YA Novel Contest: This contest looks really awesome! I know so many of you are writing this genre right now. It's open only from November 1st to November 30th, so get on over there and check it out!
Long Story Short: This is a monthly e-zine. I don't really know that much about it, but wonderful blog friend, Janel of Janel's Jumble recently had a fantastic story published there! Congrats again, Janel!
Blue Mountain Arts: Seventeenth Biannual Poetry Card Contest! Deadline December 31, 2010.Who wouldn't want their writing to be on one of their greeting cards?!
The Animal Anthology Project: Tentative deadline for submissions is December 31, 2010.
Funds For Writers: 9th Annual Essay Contest. The theme is: When Writing Made a Difference. Looks like a great contest, but HURRY. Deadline is October 31, 2010!
Memoir and...: I'm not very familiar with this, but it looks interesting. Next submission period: November 1, 2010 until February 16, 2011.

I think that's about it....for now, anyway. Hey, when I promise a list, I give you A LIST! I told myself I was really going to enter some (one?) of these, before Monday....but, hhmmm, I haven't even thought about any of them yet!

(courtesy: tvguide.com)

Have a wonderful, fun, blissful & safe Halloween weekend. I leave you with this hilarious quote from It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.

Linus: "You don't believe the story of the Great Pumpkin? I thought little girls always believed everything that was told to them. I thought little girls were innocent and trusting."

Sally Brown: "Welcome to the 20th century!"

Finally Feeling Like Fall: Frost on the Punkin'

If you have your sound on, you'll notice I have only one song.."Baby it's Cold Outside", by Dean Martin. I love his version. I chose it because....baby, it's cold here!! It finally feels like fall...and you know I'm loving it!

I'm almost embarrassed because of all the wonderful comments I've been getting lately. Truly! I feel a need to clear up a couple of things. First of all, the two anthologies I just posted covers of, are not two brand new acceptances. I wrote about them previously, but this was the first I had the covers to show. So, I don't have as many acceptances as it may have appeared!

Pertaining to NANOWRIMO, I'm really honored and pleased that some of you have already asked to buddy-up with me, but I don't think I qualify to "really" participate. As I said in today's earlier post, "I decided it's a fantastic challenge, so I'm going for it, in my own little way." Since I'm already way into my memoir, I can't actually count it as a new book and all that. I just want to participate, on my own, to try to get the words flowing faster, easier, etc! I didn't mean to mislead anyone. All of you who have signed up....please keep us posted on your blogs!

I'm really on a roll as far as getting all my other "office work" taken care of before Monday arrives. The bills, junk mail, notes to myself, actually doing and crossing off some of those notes to myself, etc. I have all day tomorrow and most of Sunday (except when the Rams game is on TV!) to get it all completed. Most of Saturday will be taken up at the Saturday Writers workshop, from 10:00 to 3:00. I'm really looking forward to that. We're having guest speakers, and there will be lots to learn. Plus, what's better than spending all that time with fellow writer friends?

As you may have noticed, I never got around to getting any more photos taken of the beautiful fall leaves. There are two bloggers who've posted some breathtakingly gorgeous pictures of the trees in their area. You may want to stop by and enjoy them. One is Dancing With Daisy. Daisy lives in Ohio and posts lots of pretty photos.....trees, sunsets, her town. Also, there is Susan at Writing Straight from the Heart. Susan, too, posts beautiful pictures...and pertaining to the fall foliage....she lives in New England!! Oh yeah!

I also came across more Calls for Submissions and Contests that I want to share, but I'll save that for tomorrow's post. Have a blissful evening or day, depending on your part of the world! That is so amazing to think about all the people and places....and we are united right here on our computers and laptops! Wow!


"There comes that mysterious meeting in life when someone acknowledges who we are and what we can be, igniting the circuits of our highest potential." -- Rusty Berkus

** Thursday's Tidbits **

I've decided to participate in Nanowrimo, National Novel Writing Month. If you don't know what it is, click on the link and you'll learn all about it. It runs from November 1st until November 30th. The point is to write a 50,000 word novel in those 30 days. Don't bother with grammar and editing....just write! This year is my first attempt. I haven't done it before because: A) I'm not writing a novel. I'm writing a memoir. B) It's the month of November, for Pete's sake!!... Hello?!....Thanksgiving, shopping, decorating for Christmas, etc.? BUT, I decided it's a fantastic challenge, so I'm going for it, in my own little way. I'll keep y'all posted and I'm sure I won't be posting as often, unless it's a sentence or two, describing my angst! And my comments will be left even less than they are now, which I feel really bad about. Please know that I read as many and as often as I can, but sometimes I just don't leave comments. All my blog friends mean the world to me!

Also, I've accepted the position of President of Saturday Writers for the upcoming year. It's a matter of volunteering to be on the Board, and I said I'd give the presidency a try! For some reason, I think I heard distant hysterical laughing after I said I would do it. Wish me luck!!

Hot off the presses: the cover of the newest Thin Threads anthology. More Real Stories of Life Changing Moments. (due out next month) I think it's a beautiful cover. How about you? My story about Tara Rhodes, a Hurricane Katrina survivor, and Habitat for Humanity home recipient, is included. I can't wait to see it!

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One more, hot off the presses: The cover of the newest Patchwork Path book, Treasure Box. (due out next month) I think this is a cool cover, too. My humorous story about "something" of my dad's is included. Can't wait to see that one, too!

"The world needs dreamers and the world needs doers. But above all, the world needs dreamers who do." -- Sarah Ban Breathnach, Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy, 1996

** This 'n That & Tea Cups, Too! **

Life gets in the way sometimes, and disrupts our schedules, doesn't it? That happens to me a lot!

As I mentioned yesterday, I planned to photograph some beautiful trees today in a nearby neighborhood, but I just didn't make it over there. Hopefully, the leaves will hang on another day or two, waiting for me to get there with my camera! BUT, I did take this picture of my back yard neighbor's trees. Remember I posted some on September 30th, and said I'd share more later? They still haven't reached their peak, but I thought the one in particular was really pretty.

Can you see those two round-ish looking things in the top? I've decided those must be owls' nests, because they are huge and that's the direction I've heard some hooting coming from! Maybe I'll get to see some of those beautiful birds sometime soon.
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Tiger-Gal had to get her nails clipped today. All of a sudden, they were way too long. She even got a cute Halloween bandana from her favorite doggie place, Kennelwood Pet Resorts!

I love both photos, don't you?




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I'd like to welcome my newest follower, Ms. Lou Turner! Hey, Lou....great to have you stop by! If Lou's name sounds familiar, it's because she's also a member of Saturday Writers  AND my publisher from High Hill Press. Welcome, Lou!

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And last, but certainly not least....I'm finally participating in Tea Cup Tuesday again! It's been quite a long time, mostly because I just couldn't get my act together in time to post my photos, etc. I'm joining Terri at Artful Afirmations and Martha at Martha's Favorites.

 I bought this beautiful cup and saucer just this past Saturday, the 23rd. I found it at one of my favorite consignment shops, Garvey Decor. I not only buy things there, but I also sell some of mine, too!

 I never look for anything in particular. No particular brands or colors or patterns. Just whatever catches my eye, and is what I consider a reasonable price!

 I loved everything about this one. The beautiful colors, the delicate handle and the pedestal "feet" on the cup!

      My camera doesn't take the greatest pictures, but just the inside of the cup has an iridescent shine. I know I'm probably not describing it properly. Hopefully, someone knows the name for that.

The name on the bottom of the cup and plate says: Original Napco China, Hand Painted. Then it looks like the number 1, and two capital D's and 239. 

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A bit of a hodgepodge post today, but that's what makes life interesting I think! Hope you thought so, too!

 “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” -- Oscar Wilde

** Finding Bliss in Every Day Life **

 Nick Nixon & me 10/23/10.



A few months ago, I wrote a little on my blog about Nick Nixon. Nick was a country music singer/guitar strumming star in the 1970's. I'm pretty sure when he first began, I wasn't "into" country music yet. I grew up mostly on The Beatles and Motown, and didn't care much for what I thought was "that-old-twangy-hee-haw" kind of stuff!  But, that changed when I was married to First Husband (FH). Country music was a regular part of military life, especially the years we lived in Germany. There wasn't any American television, but we had one radio station: Armed Forces Radio Network. I listened to every kind of music they played and that's when I began to like country.

Okay...getting back to Nick... jump ahead about 40 years and I discover he's a member of Saturday Writers , plus the "Coffee & Critique" group I recently joined! That man can write stories as well as he can still sing!  He's currently working on his memoir and we know thousands of readers out there will also recognize his talent.

 These 2 pictures were taken Saturday at the Kisker Road Library in St. Peters, Missouri. Nick participated in an event which featured local authors. I surprised him when I walked in with this old LP of his, which I found on E-bay! (I wish y'all could've seen the look on his face when I first held it up!) I asked him to autograph it and he signed it to The Ronald and me. Of course, I've already played both sides a couple of times, and he sounds great. His voice is obviously different, but I can tell it is him. I really believe his voice has gotten better with age. I think these days he sounds a little like Merle Haggard, whom I love. AND, the best thing about all of this.....Nick Nixon is one of THE nicest, most talented men you'll ever meet.....And he's still so darn cute, isn't he?!  Here's a You Tube link, if you'd like to see and hear a slightly younger version of Nick:  Trust me...you'll love it!!

                                                        

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The trees in my part of the world are so gorgeous right now! Some are a little past their peak and some are just getting there. This one is in my neighborhood and I just had to stop and take a picture of it Friday. My subdivision is a fairly new one, therefore we don't have large, old trees. But the colors on this one just took my breath away. That's what fall leaves do to me. They literally make me stop to catch my breath, and utter words out loud, even when I'm alone. It's like watching fireworks on the 4th of July: Ooooh...Aaahhhh!  I SO wished I had my camera Sunday, because a friend and I went shopping and passed dozens of trees that shouted out to be photographed. Then Sunday night, we had thunder storms and I'm so afraid the trees will look entirely different today, but I'm going back to the one area that is nearest my home, and this time I'll have my camera with me.                                                                                                                              

I took the picture below to share one of the views from our deck. That large, dead-looking tree is where we've seen our owl friends, sitting on the very top branches. There's usually just one owl, but a couple of times, we've seen two of them. Maybe a mom and a pop? In the late evenings, I hear the hooting quite often, but it's usually too late and dark by then, and so I can't see anything.

Hopefully, tomorrow I'll have quite a few magnificent tree photos to share!

“Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree” -- Emily Bronte

** It's a Grateful Friday **

♪♫   Just a quick note to mention I've changed my Play List again. If you normally hit your mute button the second you arrive here.....I totally understand! I can't really read and/or write with music playing, either. I like to listen to it as background music as I do filing, de-cluttering, etc.   ♪♫

So, today I'm playing what I call Beautiful Music. You'll hear Vivaldi, Susan Boyle, Beethoven, Michael Buble, and Charlotte Church....just to name a few! Hope you enjoy it as much as I do.....but if not, go right ahead and hit that old mute button!
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I wasn't feeling very grateful a couple of hours ago, yeah....ME! Can you believe that?! Every now and then, the old "woe is me" comes to visit and it takes me awhile to drop-kick it back out into the atmosphere. Ooops, look out! I hope I managed to send it to the middle of nowhere, where it won't hit anyone!

We all have mini incidents & inconveniences that disrupt our lives. And there's those major issues.....illnesses, accidents, family quarrels, financial problems, and loss of loved ones due to divorce or death. So, occassionally I have to remind myself that no matter what I may be going through at the moment, it is so minor compared to what millions of other people have to deal with....maybe on a daily basis.

Therefore, I've changed my attitude and I'm truly experiencing a "Grateful Friday"! I wish one for you, too!

Willow Tree - "Grateful"

(courtesy google search)

“When we are grateful for the good we already have, we attract more good into our life. On the other hand, when we are ungrateful, we tend to shut ourselves off from the good we might otherwise experience.” - Margaret Stortz

** Happy Birthday, Mark! **

Today is my youngest son's birthday. Happy Birthday, Mark! Wow...you are 23 years old! Where have the years gone? I still feel the same age I was when you were born. How can that be? I'll never forget the day I truly saw you in a new way. We lived at our other house and I was standing in the kitchen. You just got home from school and you looked like an entirely different kid than the one who was there that morning! It was as if you went to school as a little boy and came back as a mature boy. That was a sad day for me. But I got over it, of course! I knew you had to grow up and become a man....and you truly have. I couldn't be any more proud of you than I am at this moment. Well...at least not until your next wonderful accomplishment!

The following quote is one that Mark sent me a couple of years ago. He knew that I would love it, and I do.

When I was 5 years old, my mom always told me that happiness was the key to life. When I went to school, they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up.

I wrote down "happy".

They told me I didn’t understand the assignment and I told them they didn’t understand life.

Anonymous

** Family Fall Festival - Fundraiser & Fun **

"Bring the Swing" Family Fall Festival   

Please join the Cottleville Firefighters Community Outreach (CFCO) to "Bring the Swing" at the Family Fall Festival. All proceeds to benefit the purchase and installation of the Liberty Swing.


When: This Saturday, October 23, 2010
Time: Noon - 11pm
Where: Cottleville's Legacy Park (behind Cottleville City Hall)

SPECIAL EVENTS:
Ronald McDonald Magic Show: Noon - 1pm
Clydesdale appearance: 1 - 3pm
Washers Tournament: 4pm registration

Event Includes:
Hayrides, DJ, face painting, raffles, bounce house, basketball shootout, hay maze, pony rides, petting zoo, pumpkin painting and much more! After dark, enjoy a band, bonfire and the Haunted Hayride! Also, bbq, chili and beer brought to you courtesy of Mannino's Market and the Cottleville Rotary Club.

** The Liberty Swing is a state of the art playground swing that locks wheelchairs into the swing and allows children and adults with disabilities to swing without leaving their chair!

The mission of the CFCO is to "raise our community's educational and awareness levels of safety and health issues in hopes of preventing misfortune..." The CFCO has been raising awareness and funds to bring the Liberty Swing to Cottleville, which will be the 2nd in the state and 13th in the nation! For more information about the CFCO, Fall Festival, Liberty Swing or to donate on-line please visit http://www.cottlevilleswing.com/.  ** Obviously if you don't live near St. Louis, Missouri, you won't be able to attend. If you'd like to be involved, though, and make a donation, please go to the link provided.**

This magnificent swing was invented by an Australian man named Wayne Devine. Please check out the You-Tube videos included on the CFCO website. You'll probably need a hankie when you see the joy and smiles on the children's and adult's faces!

I hope everyone knew I couldn't be in another disheartened temperament again tonight, right? Two days in a row? Never! (that pertains to my political post of yesterday!) And look what a wonderful event I have to share. ☺

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow." -- Melody Beattie

** From Sweet to Sassy **

A BIG Thank-You to Ellie for awarding me this Happy 101 Sweet Friends Award! Anyone who reads her blog will surely know that she, too, is very much a Sweet Friend! Thanks for thinking of me, Ellie!

Ellie has also just inspired me to "attempt" to make an addendum to my Writing Schedule. As much as I LOVE blogging....writing my own, reading others', leaving comments, meeting newer bloggers, etc....I MUST cut out some of that blogging time and put it toward Writing Time! I hope to announce my decision sometime tomorrow.

P.S. - Posted on 10/18 @ 9:25pm

           Because of a couple of comments I've received already, I just want to make it clear that I am definitely NOT going to stop blogging! I'm just going to cut back on the amount of time I spend on it. I need to get a handle on my time management in general, in order to get all the things accomplished that I sincerely need and want to do. Hopefully, you won't even notice a change. But I'll know! I'll know that I am using all the hours in my day in a productive way....Starting tomorrow!

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I really, truly prefer to not discuss politics and/or religion because we all know where those discussions lead. (You just knew there was a "but" coming, didn't you??) ...BUT, How many of you are sick and tired and disgusted and annoyed and angry at those local political commercials we're bombarded with?? WHEN did the ads stop telling us what GOOD a candidate would do for us....and turn into one that says what BAD stuff the opponent has already done, and will continue to do?? THAT'S the kind of junk that makes us apathetic. Why bother voting? Is every single politician a scoundrel of some sort? How are we to know?

I always think of those famous lines in the movie "Network" made in 1976. Just look how the following words are still true today....34 YEARS LATER:

 "I'M AS MAD AS HELL, AND I'M NOT GOING TO TAKE THIS ANYMORE! I want you to get up right now, sit up, go to your windows, open them and stick your head out and yell - 'I'm as mad as hell and I'm not going to take this anymore!' Things have got to change. But first, you've gotta get mad!... You've got to say, 'I'm as mad as hell, and I'm not going to take this anymore!' Then we'll figure out what to do about the depression and the inflation and the oil crisis. But first get up out of your chairs, open the window, stick your head out, and yell, and say it......"  (Spoken by Howard Beale, portrayed by Peter Finch)  

I leave you with the following quotes. All said by the remarkable, extraordinary, the genius...Mark Twain.


"Loyalty to the country always. Loyalty to the government when it deserves it."


"We have the best government that money can buy."

"Reader, suppose you were an idiot. And suppose you were a member of Congress. But I repeat myself."

♫♪ So Much to Say ♫♪

Every time I say, think or hear the words "so much to say", I always think of the Dave Matthews song. I must admit I rarely understand most of the lyrics to his songs, but I love the tone of his voice and all the magic he does with it. I love most of the music, too......lots of great dancing songs. And...oh yeah...he is definitely easy on the eyes!! Woot!

One: I was surprised and saddened to hear of the death of Barbara Billingsley, one of America's greatest TV Moms, but, she lived a wonderful life, right up until the age of 94 years young. Thanks for all the memories, Mrs. Cleaver!

Two: Yesterday, The Ronald and I took grandson Scotty to the Life is Good Festival in St. Charles. The weather was perfect and we had a great time. All proceeds went to the Life is Good Kids Foundation.

I love the entire Live is Good story. If you don't know about it, or the merchandise, etc. click Jake's on Main (Street). I didn't have time to buy anything, but since we're fortunate to have a Genuine Neighborhood store so near, I can certainly get by there sometime soon.

Three: I'm still in a very good writing mode. In fact, I've been working diligently on a Saturday Writers contest that must be snail-mailed by the 20th of this month. (a birthday for a special person, too!) I'm also getting other contests and submissions written on my schedule, in hopes to keep better track of them. I actually got a little networking in at the festival yesterday, too!! Ah yes, Life is definitely Good!!

(courtesy Jake's on Main site, one of T-shirt logos)

* Anthology Acceptance & Other Writing Info *

First of all, I am thrilled to announce that an essay I submitted for the anthology, Cuivre River Anthology, Volume V, has been accepted! More on that at a later date.
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The newest Tiny Lights Sparks newsletter came out today.  Susan Bono is Editor-in-Chief ....extraordinaire! Please check it out, especially the section: Lights Online and then Searchlights & Signal Flares. That's where I submit monthly "answers" to Susan's very curious "questions". I've mentioned quite a few times, too, that anyone can submit their answers and they will be published online. There are no requirements, other than keep it "nice". There is no entry fee, judging, or money award involved, but "Hey...You get to see your work published!" I can't figure out why more of my writer friends haven't sent in some of their scathingly brilliant work!! Also, this month's "Featured Writer" is none other than fellow Missourian and great friend, Theresa Sanders (or Teri as most of us know her!) Why not go to the site and sign up for the monthly newsletter? Tell Susan, "Becky sent me!" ☺

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Welcome to my newest follower!... Betty Henderson, whose blog is Windy Ribbons. Betty's brand new book is just out: From Trash to Treasure; Evolution of an Ozarks Junkyard. Just the title made me curious! I've included the link to High Hill Press, Betty's publisher, where you can read Chapter One, for free! 

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In an attempt to find A GOOD WAY to keep track of the submissions I've sent, PLUS keep track of places I WANT to send my writing to, I typed up a "Writing Schedule", which is similar to the one in Bylines Desk Calendar. Sylvia Forbes, publisher & editor, included a really cute Top Ten Reasons to Buy Bylines Calendar on the website. (Sylvia also came to speak at one of our Saturday Writers meetings and she was excellent.) I hope the writers chosen to be part of the 2011 calendar will be announced sometime soon, because I submitted something and haven't heard yet. Even if I don't make it into the calendar, I'm surely going to purchase one because it is so much more than a calendar. Find out more on the site.
Last of all:  Happy Writing.....and Follow Your Bliss!

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“I began to have an idea of my life, not as slow shaping of achievement to fit my preconceived purposes, but as the gradual discovery and growth of a purpose which I did not know” -- Joanna Field

** Visions of Blissful Messiness **

This is the left front corner of my desk. I noticed it after I uploaded some photos from my camera, which sat on my desk, while plugged into my laptop. I thought it looked so interesting from this angle So, I thought if it looked kinda cool to me....it may also look that way to others!


I wish I could say this is my pile of submissions, but alas...it's mostly junk mail and bills. I have a tendency to ignore that which I do not want to face. But, on top of those envelopes, are some notebooks and calendars which help me with my writing.....and yes, there is ONE anthology submission which I worked on so diligently yesterday afternoon and into the night! I AM writing again! I AM writing again!

(P.S. I inadvertently forgot to mention and welcome my two newest followers: Sandra and DanPloy. Thanks for becoming followers! I hope you enjoy visiting.) 

“If a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind, of what then, is an empty desk?" Albert Einstein

** Dogs Rule Day **

Did you know that today, October 9th, is "Dogs Rule Day"?  I didn't until I read it on The Strawberry Mallard. Anyone who knows me very well and/or reads my blog knows that I am crazy about my dog, Tiger. I really do love all animals, but I'm especially crazy about DOGS!!

Pedigree

Click on the pedigree link to see suggestions of how to spoil your dog....as if we NEED any ideas on that??!!... and also how to post photos on their Facebook page!

I'll just post some of my Tiger favorites right here.

ADDENDUM: SATURDAY, 10:20AM

By the way, I know SHE has a boy dog's name, but SHE is a girl!

I guess I should refer to her as "Tiger Girl", or "Tiger Gal" when I post about her! ☺

And to those of you who have already left a comment, please do not fret. I'm only adding this, so the newer readers will know.

                  LAST, BUT NOT LEAST....I COULDN'T GET HER TO STAND STILL!!

I'm ending with 8 quotes today, because I couldn't choose just one!!

My goal in life is to be as good of a person my dog already thinks I am.  ~Author Unknown

Did you ever notice when you blow in a dog's face he gets mad at you? But when you take him in a car he sticks his head out the window. ~Steve Bluestone

Happiness is a warm puppy. ~Charles M. Schulz

Dogs feel very strongly that they should always go with you in the car, in case the need should arise for them to bark violently at nothing right in your ear. ~Dave Barry

I wonder if other dogs think poodles are members of a weird religious cult.  ~Rita Rudner

There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face. ~Ben Williams

My little dog - a heartbeat at my feet.  ~Edith Wharton

I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive. ~Gilda Radner

** Forgetful, Forgetful Not **

I don't think I've mentioned publicly, here on my blog, that I have a terrible short-term memory. It's not just terrible. It's awful, horrendous, ridiculous and downright embarrassing! (Good thing my long-term memory is in great shape...considering the fact that I'm writing my memoir!)

I once forgot to meet a friend for lunch. Yeah....me and food and a friend....I forgot! I even had it written on my kitchen calendar. For some reason, I was really lazy that morning and stayed in my jammies. I watched TV and just lounged around the family room. Around noon, my cell phone rang. When I saw my friend's name as the incoming call, that's when the load of bricks hit me. OMG! What was I to say? I forgot?? I was SO embarrassed, but fortunately this particular friend was very understanding. Whew!

Lucky for me, I haven't done anything quite that bad since. Sometimes, I still forget to answer e-mails, totally misplace notes I've written to myself, miss writing deadlines, forget to enter blog contests, etc. So, if you haven't heard from me in an amount of time that seems etiquettely correct.....please contact me and let me know that I've once again, screwed up.

I'd also forgotten that (most likely due to my low energy level) I can't be on the go for more than one day at a time. (another one of my favorite old sitcoms!) And since I forgot that little fact, the same thing happened to me today that always happens......I had a very busy Monday and Tuesday.....and so today, I was pretty much totally worthless. Ahhh, but tomorrow is another day!

Two Announcements: Welcome new follower Joe Mirakev! Hey Joe, Whadda'ya know?! Joe is a new friend from Saturday Writers. He's a fun guy, and I can't wait to read some of his writings! It appears he's just started his blog, too, so congratulations, Joe!

Speaking of blogs: Another friend from Saturday Writers, Bea Siros, has just joined the blogging world, too! Yay for Bea! (Soon, you'll both discover how addictive it can be. Bwa ha ha ha!)

"Real friends forgive you when you mess up. Superficial ones don't." -- Becky Povich

First of all, thank you to Terri of Artful Afirmations and Patti of Fill My Cup With Beauty for becoming my two newest followers. I am always so thrilled when I see a new face or two! I truly appreciate all of you.

I posted a while back that I gave myself permission to not write, or think about writing my book...for however long it took to get back into The Zone. It has worked out really well. The self-imposed pressure was lifted. My other creative ideas began to creep back into my thoughts. It's been a nice, little "vacation" from writing!

Today, I woke up with the inkling that Today is Almost The Day! I think attending yesterday's weekly Coffee & Critique group had a lot to do with it. I didn't bring anything to read, but just being around my writer buddies and hearing their thoughts and ideas, caused my cooled-down writing desire to begin percolating again!

"You may be able to take a break from writing, but you won't be able to take a break from being a writer." - Stephen Leigh

** Tea Cup Tuesday **

First of all, I'd like to welcome my newest follower -- Michaele Malta! Hello Michaele! I hope you stop by often and enjoy what you see.

It's been quite a long time since I participated in Tea Cup Tuesday. It hasn't been because of lack of interest, or not having a pretty tea cup to share. It's mostly been a problem with my time management skills, or lack there of! But not this week! I'm very pleased to join Terri of Artful Affirmations, and Martha of Martha's Favorites for Tea Cup Tuesday!

This is my newest find! I bought it last week at my favorite consignment store, Garvey Decor, in St. Peters, Missouri. I've purchased a few items there and also sold a few of mine.

At first, I didn't even realize it had a Christmasy pattern. I just loved everything about it.

Notice the scalloped edges of the saucer. Both saucer and cup have gold trim. 

In this photo, I tried to show the crack in the cup. It's in the middle and goes all the way from the top to the bottom. Whoever glued it back together, did a wonderful job. It can barely be seen on the outside. In fact, I didn't even notice it, until I saw it on the inside. I haven't filled the cup with anything to see if it leaks, because I really hadn't planned on using it. I just like to look at it!

I just love the shape of the cup! I don't know the right terminology to describe the "round, poofy" areas!

The stamp says: Royal Albert, Bone China, England.

Flower of the Month Series. Set of Twelve.

"Holly" No. 12

Okay...now to reveal the price I paid for this lovely cup & saucer.....$3.00!

I just looked on Ebay to see if anyone had this set, and what they were going for.

I found 16 of them, most listed under Buy it Now, with prices ranging from $8.99 to $39.99!

I'd say I got quite a wonderful bargain, wouldn't you?!

"If you are cold, tea will warm you. If you are too heated, it will cool you. If you are depressed, it will cheer you. If you are excited, it will calm you." --Gladstone, 1865

** First Monday of the Month **

Every first Monday of every month, at exactly 9:00 am, our town and/or county, does a "test" of our Warning System. You know, those obnoxious blaring sirens that go off when there's a tornado warning.

When one of my grown sons was younger, he was terribly afraid of storms. This lasted for a few years and even interfered occasionally with his school days. Some months, I would be aware enough to warn him that today was Test the Sirens Day, before I dropped him off at school. Even at that, I would practically hold my breath when that horrible noise started up and blasted on and on and on. Would he remember that it was just a test?

To this day, whenever I hear that test siren (or any sirens, for that matter!) I stop for a moment and recall those long-ago years when I was a young(er) mom. Memories wrap around me like a swirling fog, a bittersweet smile comes to my lips and I feel cozy and contented.

"Rainbows apologize for angry skies." ~ Sylvia Voirol

** Sweatshirt Weather is Here! **

The fall temperatures have arrived and I noticed more leaves beginning to change colors.
I had a wonderful weekend. I didn't really do anything special. Just living in the moment, ya know?

I'd like to welcome my newest follower - Joanne Fox! Thanks, Joanne. I hope you'll enjoy stopping by from time to time!

I took this photo a couple of days ago and thought I'd share it.

Right now, I have candles & autumn decor items inside the fireplace...until it's time for wooden logs and fires!

I took a couple of close-ups to show the items on the mantel better, but I haven't gotten them onto my laptop yet. ~ Thanks to Kathy at Oregon Gifts for reminding me I don't need to post any other photos. Clicking on this one, enlarges it, and you can see everything really well. ~

"Listen! the wind is rising, and the air is wild with leaves, we have had our summer evenings, now for October eves!" - Humbert Wolfe