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Woman's World Magazine Arrived!
What thrillled me the most is they chose to include a picture with my boys. Bummed me that the pics with hubby weren't included, though. He is my rock and well, I guess the whole world should know that from the article anyway, huh?
Thanks to Kristin Higson-Hughes for making my story so interesting. I hope everyone who reads it is touched in a positive way and finds a new idea for making ends meet!
God Bless, y'all!
Woman's World
If you've followed me, you know that it has always been my life mission, my calling to help other women succeed. So, it delights me to share with you, my dear readers, that my work will be featured in the August 2nd edition of Woman's World magazine. I hope that the information shared will help you along your personal and financial journeys!
And, as always, be sure to keep up with the frugal fun on MOMdotCOM.net and my daily blog, RuralMom.com where you'll find oodles of free frugal advice and informative women's topics.
Get Crafty!
Ranking right up there with writing, paper crafting is one of my creative passions......so I'm thrilled to be recently appointed as a Feature Crafting Contributer at Associated Content
Stop by and get crafty with me!
MyShelf.com Interview
In anticipation of the I Confess 3 anthology (including my short story, "Fire") I was interviewed by columnist/author Carol Ann Culbert Johnson for her "Beneath The Covers" column on Myshelf.com...
If you're interested in learning more about my personal writing process or my thoughts on writing, in general, you can read the interview HERE
If you're interested in learning more about my personal writing process or my thoughts on writing, in general, you can read the interview HERE
Tips for Writing Cross-Over Fiction
Here are a few notes I took at the Writing and Selling Crossover Fiction workshop at the RWA National Conference:
(Disclaimer: The notes from this talk are exactly that, notes. While I did my best to record each bit of information accurately, it is my interpretation of what was communicated and should not be construed as quoting the speakers.)
The publishing world is full of crossover fiction novels and many readers love having a blend of genres.
With women still comprising the bulk of fiction readers, romance and romance elements are readily accepted in combination with other genres, for example, sci-fi romance.
The writer needs to be cautious about what you are marketing and to whom. For example: If you market heavily on the romance side, you might turn off your sci-fi/fantasy readership.
Most often it's best to let the publisher/editor decide what genre it falls in and how to best bring the book to the market.
Read what the publishers are publishing. Does your book fit in? It's necessary to explore the markets you wish to write for and find out what publishers are actively publishing your genre(s.)
Do you know how to determine the basic genre you are writing for? To help, ask "what is my primary goal in this novel?"
Is it the romance?
Is it the "saving of the world?"
Is it the heroine's growth and emotional development?
By understanding the primary goal of your novel, it will help you determine what genre the novel fit in the best, even though it may have strong elements of other genres.
In cross-over fiction, the publisher's biggest challenge is the bookstore. There's only one section in the bookstore that the novel can be placed in. Again, it's important to try to decide what is it "more" of- romance, sci-fi, fantasy, women's fiction, etc.
Who will it appeal to the most?
It's highly important to remember that when you are writing cross-over fiction that you have to have resolution to all elements of the novel
as it pertains to the genres. For example, in sci-fi romance, there must be closure/resolution of the romance (meaning boy and girl get together or there is at least the clear potential that the relationship will continue... and there must be closure/resolution to the sci-fi element (cure is found, world is saved, goal is met, etc.)
Pictures from San Francisco's China Town
No trip to San Francisco would be complete without an adventure in Chinatown (noted to be the oldest Chinatown in the U.S. and the largest Chinatown outside of Asia.)
Totally a delightful neighborhood to experience!
My bestest writing bud, the fabulous Marie, and I had a great time exploring the all the sights, sounds, and shops. Not to mention, the amazing food!
We stopped at the Oriental Pearl Restaurant on 778 Clay Street... and WOW! about sums it off. Awesome food, atmosphere, and service. If you get the chance to dine there- jump on it! (And order the Walnut Shrimp- OMG good!)
The dragon mural pictured is on the building adjacent to the Oriental Pearl.
Well... I'll be back tomorrow with more pics and tips... stay tuned...
Also be sure to visit http://www.momdotcom.net/ for freebies, contests, and more conference notes.
(Disclaimer: The notes from this talk are exactly that, notes. While I did my best to record each bit of information accurately, it is my interpretation of what was communicated and should not be construed as quoting the speakers.)
The publishing world is full of crossover fiction novels and many readers love having a blend of genres.
With women still comprising the bulk of fiction readers, romance and romance elements are readily accepted in combination with other genres, for example, sci-fi romance.
The writer needs to be cautious about what you are marketing and to whom. For example: If you market heavily on the romance side, you might turn off your sci-fi/fantasy readership.
Most often it's best to let the publisher/editor decide what genre it falls in and how to best bring the book to the market.
Read what the publishers are publishing. Does your book fit in? It's necessary to explore the markets you wish to write for and find out what publishers are actively publishing your genre(s.)
Do you know how to determine the basic genre you are writing for? To help, ask "what is my primary goal in this novel?"
Is it the romance?
Is it the "saving of the world?"
Is it the heroine's growth and emotional development?
By understanding the primary goal of your novel, it will help you determine what genre the novel fit in the best, even though it may have strong elements of other genres.
In cross-over fiction, the publisher's biggest challenge is the bookstore. There's only one section in the bookstore that the novel can be placed in. Again, it's important to try to decide what is it "more" of- romance, sci-fi, fantasy, women's fiction, etc.
Who will it appeal to the most?
It's highly important to remember that when you are writing cross-over fiction that you have to have resolution to all elements of the novel
as it pertains to the genres. For example, in sci-fi romance, there must be closure/resolution of the romance (meaning boy and girl get together or there is at least the clear potential that the relationship will continue... and there must be closure/resolution to the sci-fi element (cure is found, world is saved, goal is met, etc.)
Pictures from San Francisco's China Town
No trip to San Francisco would be complete without an adventure in Chinatown (noted to be the oldest Chinatown in the U.S. and the largest Chinatown outside of Asia.)
Totally a delightful neighborhood to experience!
My bestest writing bud, the fabulous Marie, and I had a great time exploring the all the sights, sounds, and shops. Not to mention, the amazing food!
We stopped at the Oriental Pearl Restaurant on 778 Clay Street... and WOW! about sums it off. Awesome food, atmosphere, and service. If you get the chance to dine there- jump on it! (And order the Walnut Shrimp- OMG good!)The dragon mural pictured is on the building adjacent to the Oriental Pearl.
Well... I'll be back tomorrow with more pics and tips... stay tuned...
Also be sure to visit http://www.momdotcom.net/ for freebies, contests, and more conference notes.
FTHRW Event Pictures ~ RWA Conference
Here's a few pics from our fabulous FTHRW Meet n Greet at the RWA National Conference in San Francisco.Pictured first is speaker, Scott Eagan of the Greyhaus Literary Agency http://scotteagan.blogspot.com/, and member, Arwen who is one half of the Marilu Mann writing team http://www.greatmta.com/
We always have the best get-togethers with terrific guest speakers, yummy food, and lots of give-a-ways.FTHRW is truly an awesome chapter to belong to. Don't believe me? Check it out for yourself at http://www.FTHRW.com - you'll be amazed by all the benefits of belonging to this fab group.
In the group of five pictured above, the two on the left are Secretary, Shoshana Brown and Newsletter Editor, Laurie Darcey. (If you know the names of the other members pictured, please let me know- it's tough to remember who all I met that night!)
In the picture of three (from left to right,) is Critique Loop Co-Chair, Helen Scott Taylor, http://helenscotttaylor.com/ (also a Golden Heart Finalist!) Helen's husband, and member, Lynn Goodale.
The gal in the polkadot dress is me (I love FTHRW so much that I'm the president this year and last.)I was honored to introduce Denise Pattison (pictured next to me) who is the '07 FTHRW Cyber Rose recipient. The Cyber Rose Award is given in recognition of extraordinary service to the chapter.
Looking on, near the window, is our vice president, Marie Benesh. (Couldn't have done this without you, Marie! And wouldn't want to!)
Members Tawny Weber (on right) http://www.tawnyweber.com/ and Beth Burgoon (w/a Beth Andrews) http://bethandrews.net/ are all smiles......as were we all :) What a great time!
Thanks to everyone who helped make it happen!
PAN Retreat '08
Gail Blanke http://www.lifedesigns.com, a bestselling author, Real Simple magazine columnist, business owner, and advisor to CEOs worldwide, shared with us her thoughts about leaning into change and mastering the art of re-invention.
(Disclaimer: The notes from this talk are exactly that, notes. While I did my best to record each bit of information accurately, it is my interpretation of what was communicated and should not be construed as quoting the speaker.)
We are children of the universe and playing small doesn't serve the world.
We were meant to be bold, meant to reinvent.
It's not the weakest or the strongest, it's the species that adapts to change -they are the ones who survive.
People will not get "it" about you until you get "it" about yourself. Get "it" and use "it!"
Six Steps to Thriving on Change
1. Tap Into the Incredible Power of a Vision
- nothing bold, nothing beautiful happens without a vision
- motivation comes from having a vision
How good could you make it?
What would it look like?
2. Let Go
- let go of being right, of stereotypes, of regrets, of limitations, of resentments, of anger...of anything that is holding you back
- take a leap of faith and courage
- let go of the trapeze to catch the next one
- sometimes you don't ever see it, but something great is waiting for you
- never wait for the courage, courage isn't given, courage comes of action
- don't confuse falling with failing
3. Acknowledge Your Hardest Won Achievements
- follow the ground you've already covered. It isn't always necessary to re-invent. What have you done well in the past? What can you improve upon?
4. Dust Off the Entrepreneur Spirit
- re-kindle that spirit, that drive to create
- entrepreneur's thrive in chaos, never thing what they know is enough, never think that's the only way things can be done
- have new eyes, look at things in a fresh way
- you can't change if you hang onto the past
5. Know Who You Are and Who You Are Not
- create and develop your special brand
- you don't have to be everybody's everything.
- think about women who have branded themselves exceedingly well- Madonna, Rosie, Cher. When you know who you are you know how to act... and you will know what to write
- if enough people like it, it doesn't matter who doesn't
Answer this question:
I'm (insert your name) and I'm the one who _________________
6. Decide What is the Truth
- the power to distinguish between fact and interpretation is essential to dealing with life and change
Additional Notes:
Sometimes it takes a crises for us to know who we are. A defining moment is when you found something in yourself you didn't know you had.
When you said "yes I can!"
When you said "no, I don't"
When you drew a line
Can you recall your defining moments? Try writing about them.
Sometimes you have to have everything ripped away from you. Say, "I will build back." Don't confuse falling with failing.
Don't stereotype yourself... don't say "I'm not good enough" or "I'm not that type of person"
Dare to test your limits, to be the person you know yourself to be.
In a changing market (world, etc.,) don't be afraid of change!
.
(Disclaimer: The notes from this talk are exactly that, notes. While I did my best to record each bit of information accurately, it is my interpretation of what was communicated and should not be construed as quoting the speaker.)
We are children of the universe and playing small doesn't serve the world.
We were meant to be bold, meant to reinvent.
It's not the weakest or the strongest, it's the species that adapts to change -they are the ones who survive.
People will not get "it" about you until you get "it" about yourself. Get "it" and use "it!"
Six Steps to Thriving on Change
1. Tap Into the Incredible Power of a Vision
- nothing bold, nothing beautiful happens without a vision
- motivation comes from having a vision
How good could you make it?
What would it look like?
2. Let Go
- let go of being right, of stereotypes, of regrets, of limitations, of resentments, of anger...of anything that is holding you back
- take a leap of faith and courage
- let go of the trapeze to catch the next one
- sometimes you don't ever see it, but something great is waiting for you
- never wait for the courage, courage isn't given, courage comes of action
- don't confuse falling with failing
3. Acknowledge Your Hardest Won Achievements
- follow the ground you've already covered. It isn't always necessary to re-invent. What have you done well in the past? What can you improve upon?
4. Dust Off the Entrepreneur Spirit
- re-kindle that spirit, that drive to create
- entrepreneur's thrive in chaos, never thing what they know is enough, never think that's the only way things can be done
- have new eyes, look at things in a fresh way
- you can't change if you hang onto the past
5. Know Who You Are and Who You Are Not
- create and develop your special brand
- you don't have to be everybody's everything.
- think about women who have branded themselves exceedingly well- Madonna, Rosie, Cher. When you know who you are you know how to act... and you will know what to write
- if enough people like it, it doesn't matter who doesn't
Answer this question:
I'm (insert your name) and I'm the one who _________________
6. Decide What is the Truth
- the power to distinguish between fact and interpretation is essential to dealing with life and change
Additional Notes:
Sometimes it takes a crises for us to know who we are. A defining moment is when you found something in yourself you didn't know you had.
When you said "yes I can!"
When you said "no, I don't"
When you drew a line
Can you recall your defining moments? Try writing about them.
Sometimes you have to have everything ripped away from you. Say, "I will build back." Don't confuse falling with failing.
Don't stereotype yourself... don't say "I'm not good enough" or "I'm not that type of person"
Dare to test your limits, to be the person you know yourself to be.
In a changing market (world, etc.,) don't be afraid of change!
.
More RWA Conference '08 Tidbits
Before I get to the tips... I have to post of pic of my buds because what's a conference without good friends?Authors, Gail Dayton www.gaildayton.com ; Marilu Mann http://www.greatmta.com/; Kacey Smith www.kaceysmith.com ; Carolyn Hughey www.carolynhughey.com and my bestest writing buddy, Marie and I had dinner at an cozy neighborhood Italian restaurant. Remember the Casamatta wine- yeh, this is where we found it. :)
Okay, on to the goodies...
Killer Fiction is celebrating their 1 year anniversary starting on Sunday, August 11. Stop by http://killerfictionwriters.blogspot.com for hot models, special guests, and prizes.
Get your conference fee paid next year by entering the Pitch Perfect Contest where the grand prize is Free Registration to the RWA National 2009 conference. All RWA members are eligible to enter. See the MWV-RWA website at http://www.midwillamettevalleyrwa.com/ for details.
Wikkibird Web Design creates awesome business cards, too. For original websites and redesigns or custome bookcovers, bookmarks, postcards, or business cards with reasonable prices, check out www.wikkibird.com
Heard from several reliable sources: Harlequin Nocturne and Intrigue are seeking new writers and series books, too. (Not that every Harlequin line isn't looking for new talent, but these two lines kept coming up in conversations and workshops.)
Interesting dichotomy here in this trend... Erotic Romance and Christian Inspirational Romance are both very big sellers right now.
Paranormal is still hot, but publishers are looking for more stories that break the norm (meaning: containing characters other than vampires and shape-shifters, and unique situations/settings.)
Tomorrow I'll be popting notes from the PAN Retreat and pictures from my chapter, FTHRW (online chapter- very cool- be sure to check them out) meet n greet.
Also be sure to visit www.MOMdotCOM.net for freebies, contests, and more conference notes
RWA Conference '08 Tidbits
Today, we interrupt the San Fran pics for some tidbits of important writer information for our viewing audience...
Author, Debby Giusti created a beautiful writer's prayer that she distributed at the conference. If you haven't had the pleasure of reading it, jump on Debby's website and click on the "Writer's Prayer" sidebar link. A fabulous bit of inspiration to print out and peg by your desk.
While standing in line to register, a top name editor at Kensington mentioned that they are seeking quality Historical Westerns. If you write in this genre, you might want to investigate.
Break Into Fiction will be hosting Plotting Retreats throughout the remainder of this year and into 2009 in Chicago, Atlanta, Seattle, Los Angeles, St. Louis, and Denver. For new writers and published authors, this amazing retreat will help push your writing to the next level.
Ninth Moon is now offering scene cards for sale. These well-designed 3 x 5's are a handy tool for planning, editing, plotting, and simply keeping everything in your novel on task. You'll find this nifty product here: http://www.ninthmoon.com/detail.aspx?ID=368
Want to win a $1500 check to defray your costs at the 2009 RWA National Conference to be held in Washington, DC? Valley Forge Romance Writers is hosting a 2nd annual VFRW Writer's Rafflemania! For more information, visit http://www.vfrw.com
Agent, Scott Eagan of the Greyhaus Literary Agency spoke to our FTHRW in depth about what he's looking for right now... and guess what, he's listed it all on his blog too. Check it out at http://scotteagan.blogspot.com/2008/08/thoughts-on-conference.html
Stay tuned this week for more tips, notes from workshops and the PAN Retreat, and of course, more fun pics!
Also be sure to visit www.MOMdotCOM.net for freebies, contests, and more conference notes.
.
Author, Debby Giusti created a beautiful writer's prayer that she distributed at the conference. If you haven't had the pleasure of reading it, jump on Debby's website and click on the "Writer's Prayer" sidebar link. A fabulous bit of inspiration to print out and peg by your desk.
While standing in line to register, a top name editor at Kensington mentioned that they are seeking quality Historical Westerns. If you write in this genre, you might want to investigate.
Break Into Fiction will be hosting Plotting Retreats throughout the remainder of this year and into 2009 in Chicago, Atlanta, Seattle, Los Angeles, St. Louis, and Denver. For new writers and published authors, this amazing retreat will help push your writing to the next level.
Ninth Moon is now offering scene cards for sale. These well-designed 3 x 5's are a handy tool for planning, editing, plotting, and simply keeping everything in your novel on task. You'll find this nifty product here: http://www.ninthmoon.com/detail.aspx?ID=368
Want to win a $1500 check to defray your costs at the 2009 RWA National Conference to be held in Washington, DC? Valley Forge Romance Writers is hosting a 2nd annual VFRW Writer's Rafflemania! For more information, visit http://www.vfrw.com
Agent, Scott Eagan of the Greyhaus Literary Agency spoke to our FTHRW in depth about what he's looking for right now... and guess what, he's listed it all on his blog too. Check it out at http://scotteagan.blogspot.com/2008/08/thoughts-on-conference.html
Stay tuned this week for more tips, notes from workshops and the PAN Retreat, and of course, more fun pics!
Also be sure to visit www.MOMdotCOM.net for freebies, contests, and more conference notes.
.
The View from Pier 39
The fog in San Fran lifted long enough for some great views off Peir 39. Alcatraz was clearly visible...and this is about as close as I'd like to get to that rock. ;-)
Had a ball watching the sea lions - very personable critters. Stinky, but personable.Along with all that water and fresh air, a stop for some seafood was in order. My bestest bud, Marie, and I checked out Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and were delighted with the food and fun atmosphere. Good times telling the waiter to "Run Forest Run!"
The stop at the pier ended blissfully with a little street dancer eye candy.
Enjoy :)
If you are looking for more San Fran fun, be sure to check out www.MOMdotCOM.net for pics and a special contest too.
Tomorrow I'll begin posting notes and tips learned from the conference... so tune back in then... same bat channel!
.
San Francisco ~ RWA National Conference '08
The Romance Writers of American 2008 National Conference was fabulous (of course) this year. Throughout the next week or so, I'll be posting my workshop notes, pictures, and tips picked up in the elevator for your enjoyment- so stay tuned!
Starting out, how about a few pictures from Sonoma and Napa Valley (it's San Francisco... naturally, I had to take a wine tour ;-)
Happily... found a few new wines to enjoy, too...
I'm not a big white wine drinker, but Viansa has a 2006 Reserve Chardonnay that has me reconsidering that decision. Smooth, citrus, with a delicious note of pear.
Kirkland Ranch http://kirklandwinery.com/ sports a 2002 Jamieson Canyon Sangiovese with a hint of cranberry, which is absolutely delightful! Their 2006 Jamieson Canyon Late Harvest Viognier is also not to be missed, a light, semi-sweet dessert wine with hints of mandarin and pineapple - total yum!
Not from California, but well worth mentioning is Casamatta. We chose this to accompany a wonderful Italian meal in down town San Fran and found it to be a perfect choice. I'm hoping to find it somewhere locally. If not, I may have to drive back to CA and grab a case- it's that good!
Want more pics, info, and even a contest or two? Visit www.MOMdotCOM.net
Starting out, how about a few pictures from Sonoma and Napa Valley (it's San Francisco... naturally, I had to take a wine tour ;-)
Happily... found a few new wines to enjoy, too...
I'm not a big white wine drinker, but Viansa has a 2006 Reserve Chardonnay that has me reconsidering that decision. Smooth, citrus, with a delicious note of pear.
Kirkland Ranch http://kirklandwinery.com/ sports a 2002 Jamieson Canyon Sangiovese with a hint of cranberry, which is absolutely delightful! Their 2006 Jamieson Canyon Late Harvest Viognier is also not to be missed, a light, semi-sweet dessert wine with hints of mandarin and pineapple - total yum!
Not from California, but well worth mentioning is Casamatta. We chose this to accompany a wonderful Italian meal in down town San Fran and found it to be a perfect choice. I'm hoping to find it somewhere locally. If not, I may have to drive back to CA and grab a case- it's that good!
Want more pics, info, and even a contest or two? Visit www.MOMdotCOM.net
American Title Contest
http://www.romantic times.com/ 2008/04/american -title-v. php
Hey everyone, the above is the link for the American Title Contest, sponsored by Romantic Times Magazine and Dorchester Publishing. The guidelines are on the site.
So go check it out. The deadline for the submission is June 15th.
.
Hey everyone, the above is the link for the American Title Contest, sponsored by Romantic Times Magazine and Dorchester Publishing. The guidelines are on the site.
So go check it out. The deadline for the submission is June 15th.
.
FTHRW May Online Workshop
FTHRW has the best online workshops... here's the upcoming one for May:
The Plotting Wheel
Dates: May 5th-31st, 2008
Instructor:Becky Martinez and Sue Viders
Cost: FREE to FTHRW members; $20.00 for all others
Registration Deadline: April 30th, 2008
Course Description:
Building a plot and creating characters go hand in hand. Both have to work for the readers or they may feel cheated. This class can help the writer interweave plot and character so that both work together. The result is a character who truly belongs in this novel and a plot that moves along at a good, structured pace.
The plotting wheel is actually a series of elements that all good books contain and that the writer needs to move the character through the plot. Filled with examples, quick exercises and lots of interaction, this class can help structure a novel and build an interesting character as well. Whether you're a beginning writer or working on your tenth book, this class can help you put character and plot together.
About the Instructors:
Becky Martinez is a former broadcast journalist and multi-published romance author. Her romance LOVE ON DECK was an Aspen Gold finalist. She was a contributor to TROUBLE WITH ROMANCE, an anthology, which was a 2007 New Mexico Book Award finalist. Together with Sue Viders she co-authored the popular book on writing TEN STEPS TO CREATING MEMORABLE CHARACTERS.
Sue Viders is the author of more than 20 books, and is an international art marketing consultant. Her first book for writers, HEROES AND HEROINES, SIXTEEN MASTER ARCHETYPES, has become a popular writing tool. She also co-authored with Becky Martinez, the new writing book TEN STEPS TO CREATING MEMORABLE CHARACTERS.
Sue and Becky have taught numerous writing classes, online and in person.
The Plotting Wheel
Dates: May 5th-31st, 2008
Instructor:Becky Martinez and Sue Viders
Cost: FREE to FTHRW members; $20.00 for all others
Registration Deadline: April 30th, 2008
Course Description:
Building a plot and creating characters go hand in hand. Both have to work for the readers or they may feel cheated. This class can help the writer interweave plot and character so that both work together. The result is a character who truly belongs in this novel and a plot that moves along at a good, structured pace.
The plotting wheel is actually a series of elements that all good books contain and that the writer needs to move the character through the plot. Filled with examples, quick exercises and lots of interaction, this class can help structure a novel and build an interesting character as well. Whether you're a beginning writer or working on your tenth book, this class can help you put character and plot together.
About the Instructors:
Becky Martinez is a former broadcast journalist and multi-published romance author. Her romance LOVE ON DECK was an Aspen Gold finalist. She was a contributor to TROUBLE WITH ROMANCE, an anthology, which was a 2007 New Mexico Book Award finalist. Together with Sue Viders she co-authored the popular book on writing TEN STEPS TO CREATING MEMORABLE CHARACTERS.
Sue Viders is the author of more than 20 books, and is an international art marketing consultant. Her first book for writers, HEROES AND HEROINES, SIXTEEN MASTER ARCHETYPES, has become a popular writing tool. She also co-authored with Becky Martinez, the new writing book TEN STEPS TO CREATING MEMORABLE CHARACTERS.
Sue and Becky have taught numerous writing classes, online and in person.
What the Blog?
I've been a little lax at blogging... um, okay, I've been MIA for like five months on my personal blog now. Where did the time go?
But, I've decided to post all kinds of writing tidbits here and maybe a few inspirations, too. Need to get back in the groove of things.
Now whether it gets read or not, that's the question... LOL
Hugs,
Barb
But, I've decided to post all kinds of writing tidbits here and maybe a few inspirations, too. Need to get back in the groove of things.
Now whether it gets read or not, that's the question... LOL
Hugs,
Barb
Brief Bio
Barb WebbEmail: ruralmoms@gmail.com
A Frugal Living expert, Barb Webb has written over 200 curriculum manuals and numerous fiction and non-fiction published works including how-to guides, novellas, anthologies, articles, and poems.
She has been featured in magazines such as Woman's World, Redbook, MSN Money, Women’s Day, True Romance, and American Profile.Her recent non-fiction work includes The Mom's Guide to Earning and Saving Thousands on the Internet (McGraw Hill, ISBN 0071457763)
Barb Webb is also the owner of the MOMdotCOM.NETwork which includes the popular website RURALMOM.com, Past-President/Advisor to From The Heart Romance Writers RWA Chapter 177, Expert Advisor to Lean Forward Media, Expert Advisor to Moms Making Millions, and a ClubMom® Cost-Cutting Expert.
This savvy mom and multi-talented writer currently resides in Kentucky with her husband and three children
New Blog
I've been mixing it up on LIVING WITH ZERO DEBT now. Please stop by to chat! http://www.livingwithzerodebt.blogspot.com/
Hugs,
Barb
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Hugs,
Barb
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Best Seller Numbers
Well, I have yet to make a bestseller list... some day! (grin)... but I did run across this fantastic blog entry by Jessica Faust from BookEnds, LLC on understanding bestseller lists.
So... stop checking your Amazon numbers and go read this:
UNDERSTANDING BESTSELLER LISTS http://bookendslitagency.blogspot.com/2007/09/understanding-bestseller-lists.html
Hugs,
Barb
.
So... stop checking your Amazon numbers and go read this:
UNDERSTANDING BESTSELLER LISTS http://bookendslitagency.blogspot.com/2007/09/understanding-bestseller-lists.html
Hugs,
Barb
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Who Wants to be a Superhero?
I do!
Seriously, I love this show.
From the time I was, oh... about 7, I wanted to be Wonder Woman.
My hubby and kids think I'm a little nutty, but those who love comic books, certainly understand :)
I think that's apropos to the reason I like to write Paranormals, of course. The ability to endow characters with super-human capabilities and to explore the basics of good vs evil comes from my comic book roots.
Superheroes rock!
Here's hoping Stan Lee has a 3rd series!
Hugs,
Barb
PS- For those who aren't sure what show I'm talking about... visit http://www.scifi.com/superhero
.
Seriously, I love this show.
From the time I was, oh... about 7, I wanted to be Wonder Woman.
My hubby and kids think I'm a little nutty, but those who love comic books, certainly understand :)
I think that's apropos to the reason I like to write Paranormals, of course. The ability to endow characters with super-human capabilities and to explore the basics of good vs evil comes from my comic book roots.
Superheroes rock!
Here's hoping Stan Lee has a 3rd series!
Hugs,
Barb
PS- For those who aren't sure what show I'm talking about... visit http://www.scifi.com/superhero
.
This is an email forward, the author is anonymous (would love to meet him/her some day! LOL) but it certainly struck a chord with me, as a mother, and as a writer. There are many times in our isolated careers and in raising our children, that we do feel invisible. I hope you find some comfort and inspiration in these words...
I'm invisible.
It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, "Can't you see I'm on the phone?"
Obviously not.
No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because noone can see me at all. I'm invisible.
Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm noteven a human being. I'm a clock to ask, "What time is it?" I'm a satellite guide to answer, "What number is the Disney Channel?" I'm a car to order, "Right around 5:30 , please."
I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again.
She's going ... she's going... she's gone!
One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England . Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hardnot to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a banana clip and I was afraid I could actually smell peanut butter in it.
I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, "I brought you this."
It was a bookon the great cathedrals of Europe . I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: "To Charlotte , with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees."
In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which Icould pattern my work:
1. No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names.
2. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished.
3. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.
4. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.
A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, "Why are youspending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it." And the workman replied, "Because God sees."
I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, "I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked,is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become."
At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.
The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime becau se there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.
When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, "My mom gets up at 4 inthe morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself.
I just want him to want to comehome. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, "You're gonna love it there."
As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has beenadded to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.
.
I'm invisible.
It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, "Can't you see I'm on the phone?"
Obviously not.
No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because noone can see me at all. I'm invisible.
Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm noteven a human being. I'm a clock to ask, "What time is it?" I'm a satellite guide to answer, "What number is the Disney Channel?" I'm a car to order, "Right around 5:30 , please."
I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again.
She's going ... she's going... she's gone!
One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England . Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hardnot to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a banana clip and I was afraid I could actually smell peanut butter in it.
I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, "I brought you this."
It was a bookon the great cathedrals of Europe . I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: "To Charlotte , with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees."
In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which Icould pattern my work:
1. No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names.
2. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished.
3. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.
4. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.
A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, "Why are youspending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it." And the workman replied, "Because God sees."
I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, "I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked,is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become."
At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.
The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime becau se there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.
When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, "My mom gets up at 4 inthe morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself.
I just want him to want to comehome. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, "You're gonna love it there."
As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has beenadded to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.
.
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