The Writer's Block

A Picture is Worth 300 Words: Writing Exercise

2012-02-10T15:12:00.000-06:00

Last week, in my Creative Writing class, we had a fun little exercise that I couldn't wait to share with you. It was inspired by our book Master Class in Fiction Writing by Adam Sexton. It's one of the best books I've read on writing. I highly recommend it.

The exercise was to take a photo with our camera phones of people (without getting caught, beat-up, or arrested). lol We had to go incognito for this one. Then we were to describe the people as best we could in approximately 300 words. Here was mine:

In a crowded restaurant a young couple sits at a small tablefor two. His eyes flutter from person to wall to table, as hers stay focused onher salad. He stuffs bread sticks and pasta hurriedly down his throat, as ifthere is some race to finish. She shuffles her greens from one side of theplate to the next. The only time her eyes flash up to his is when she reachesfor her water. Her diamond sparkles in the dull lighting on the Italianrestaurant. They’re married? Theysend a mutual forced smile each other’s way. He breaks the stare before shedoes.

He’s dressed nicely with the exception that his button upshirt is not tucked into his slacks. She wears a wine colored dress that looksnew or maybe it’s just well-pressed. Her face is fancied with loads of makeup,too much rouge, as if inexperienced. Her heeled feet sit crossing at the anklelike a real lady.

She wipes the bright lipstick off the empty wine glasscarelessly with her manicured fingers, and occasionally tugs at the bottom ofher curled hair. He is still oblivious to her solemn demeanor and seems contentthat way.

They both sit mostly silent, with the exception of theoccasional sentence to the waiter, for the entire meal.

What happened? Why isshe so sad?

I glance back at my husband, who has been talking everyminute that his mouth is not full of food, and smile.

When doing this exercise, we were to focus on four types of descriptions:
1.) Concrete
2.) Specific
3.) Original (no cliche' descriptions; i.e. raining cats and dogs)
4.) Careful (choice of words)

I thought this was a unique way to capture not only what we were seeing but what we were thinking too. It also captures a bit of the narrator's character. There's so much you can learn from a short bit of writing. Maybe a good saying is, "A thousand words have a million meanings."

Read you later, friends!

Photo by Photl.

Ode to the Simple Life: How to Make Your Own Laundry Detergent

2012-02-09T16:47:00.000-06:00

Quick post today. This is a bit off-topic for me, which I usually try to avoid, but I'm doing some shameless promo for my other blog Ode to the Simple Life. My husband and I have been having a crazy journey while trying to escape from the ever-sticky grasp of debt, and the blog is following that journey. We are also remodeling a lake house that we bought for practically nothing, which is also documented on the blog. We'd love to have you stop by, take a look, leave a comment, and follow us while we learn how to live more simply.

Today's post was about how to make your own laundry detergent. Click here to find out more.

Please excuse my digression from my usual writing posts.

Many blessings!

Words for the Moment

2012-02-08T14:34:00.001-06:00

I have been feeling a bit restless with my writing lately. I've had a few things published, but my dream is to get one of my novels out there. I know that in order to make that happen I should be sending out queries, contacting agents, and revising to perfection my novel, but with this being my senior year in college, it's hard to find the time to do that. I sometimes have trouble pushing my way through this stagnation, but always when I'm feeling like this, some divine intervention takes place and helps me back to my feet. Today I was reading some personal letters of John Keats (one of my favorite poets), and his words jumped out as if he had wrote that letter to me. In the letter he wrote a little poem which ends like this:

O fret not after knowledge - I have none
And yet the Evening listens - He who saddens
At thought of Idleness cannot be idle,
And he's awake who thinks he's asleep.

I can't think of anything that I needed to hear more today. I'm not sitting around like a bump on a log doing nothing to further myself. I'm not asleep. I'm awake; and I'm learning. I shouldn't about not doing enough. It is just not my season yet, but there is a season for everything (Ecclesiastes). For now, I will just enjoy the writing process.

I found it incredibly reassuring that he thought the same thoughts that I think sometimes: What if it never happens? He gives the best answer, and I will choose to respond to that question the same way:

I feel assured I should write from the mere yearning and fondness I have for the Beautiful even if my night's labours should be burnt every morning and no eye ever shine upon them.

Amen to that. We have to write because it's who we are. It's not what we do. We were created this way. We write in order to live fully.

Cheers!

Photo by Photl.

Meet my Friend - Procrastination

2012-02-07T16:27:00.000-06:00

Hello blog friends!

This week I have a deadline. By Sunday, I need to have written a fairly lengthy short story for a creative writing class. I have the idea in my mind (and a little on paper), but I'm having a difficult time just sitting down and knocking it out.

I have been wasting time re-doing my blog. You like? lol

Every time I go to sit down and write or do any kind of homework, my long-lost friend, Procrastination shows up and keeps me so distracted that I rarely get anything done. So, here's my question for all of you on-your-A-game people out there (if there are truly any that actually exist), how do you stay focused? What are some helpful tips that you've found that keep you on track with your writing?

Here's a few quotes that I've found that fit my situation perfectly. These are for all of us sometimes-more-than-we-admit procrastinators!

"My evil genius Procrastination has whispered me to tarry 'til a more convenient season." -Mary Todd Lincoln

"Procrastination is like a credit card: it's a lot of fun until you get the bill." -Christopher Parker

Cheers to kicking Procrastination to the curb! :)

Read you later!

Photo by Photl.

Quotes from BrainyQuote.

The Study of Our Craft

2012-01-27T15:54:00.000-06:00

It's amazing, now looking back, that I completed my first novel without ever stepping foot into an upper-level English or Creative Writing class. After two years of reading, writing, and learning English and literature, I feel a whole new appreciation for the study of my craft.

I received as Associates in Science in 2006, and that was no big deal to me. After all, I had only completed my basic classes. I wanted more. My desire to finish college, despite my lack of financing, stayed with me until in 2010 I went back with the blessing of some long, lost VA financing. It's a God thing. I am still studying English with a minor in History (to help me understand the context of literature), and now I realize how much I needed the education to further my writing.

Let's be honest, reading always helps us write better. We learn from the best, presumably, the published (this I say lightly because I realize that there are many talented people who have not been discovered yet). We learn structure, plot, character analysis, and other general writing techniques from reading, often without even realizing it. As people, we generally tend to search out and mimic patterns; I suppose that's how I wrote my first novel without any formal training. There is nothing wrong with this tactic because some people are just brilliant, talented. Not saying that I fall into that category but some do. With that being said, there is nothing but good that can come from studying your craft, whether that be on your own or formally. The training is meant to enhance the talent/gift/drive that is already resting in your hearts.

I started my second novel, Realm of Desire, immediately after I finished my first. I'm still working on it in between school assignments, and I have to tell you that it sounds like a different writer is writing the later stuff all because of everything I've been learning. We evolve.

I encourage you, as a serious writer, to search out helpful books, workshops, and techniques from other writers. We need to learn from each other. Also, read about publishers and follow agents' blogs. They are very helpful.

I agree with Sir Philip Sidney when he said in his "An Apology for Poetry" :

Orator fit, Poeta nascitur
[The orator is made, the poet is born.]

We were born writers, but we are not born at our fullest potential. While perfection is impossible, the pursuit of it is necessary to become the best we can be. Horace had it right when he said in Art of Poetry:

Mediocribus esse poetis,
Non Dii, non homines, nor concessere Columnae
[Mediocre poets are not endured by gods, men, or booksellers]

Cheers to the aspiration and conquering of becoming great writers.

Happy writing!

Photo by Photl.
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Midday Coffee and Fairy Tales: Trends for 2012

2012-01-06T14:25:00.000-06:00

Two posts in one day! I am on a roll here. ;)

I've heard that when people become adults, they have a hard time embracing the things they once loved as a child, i.e. fairy tales. Well, I'm here to proclaim that this is not always the case.

Over the past few months, I've fallen in love with T.V. shows like Once Upon a Time and Grimm. (If you haven't seen these, you need to ASAP. You'll love them, I promise!) I never get a chance to watch them on their scheduled air times, so I watch them on Hulu. (To whoever invented Hulu: You're awesome!) I digress. Anyway, my dad, knowing the nerd I am, got me a copy of the Brother's Grimm fairy tale book. I cannot tell you how much I love it! My husband and I started on Christmas reading a story every night. Come to think of it, I guess that makes both of us nerds. lol

I'm making a prediction that fairy tale revisited books/novellas with an adult edge will be the "it" thing for 2012. I'm no stranger to writing my own versions of fairy tales. I wrote a play last year that was a spin off of the Snow White story. If I'm right on this, maybe it's time to get out our old fairy tale books to draw some inspiration. When looking to get published, it's (although sometime unfortunate for us) important to follow trends. That doesn't mean we write the same thing as everyone else. It simply means that we need to know what hot before the world knows what's hot, and I have to admit that this is one trend I'm happy to explore.

Check 'em out!

Happy writing!

Side Stories: Love 'Em or Hate 'Em?

2012-01-06T13:10:00.000-06:00

I know I've talked about Character Haunting before on here, which leads me to this post. In my second novel Realm of Desire, I have a bit of a side story about a teenager and her dad ... The point is, this character is fascinating me. I want to know more about her. I want to explore her story further, but there is no room for it in the novel. I know I can write more about her later. Maybe a whole other novel where she is the MC would work. Who knows?

What I want to know from you (the writer/reader) is do side stories enhance or distract? Or, does it depend on how it's written?

I've seen side stories work if they are somehow tied to the main plot. My side story is tied to a character's relative, so hopefully it works. BUT I've also seen side stories not work (at least not for me). An example that most of you might be familiar with is in the Twilight series. When the writer went on and on about the Indian history about werewolves. You know, the part where they are sitting around the fire? I think it's in the third book. I must admit, while I enjoyed the series, I hated that side-story so much that I skipped a few pages. I certainly don't want readers to get bored and skip through any of the pages in my book.

What are your thoughts? Do they work for you or not?

New Year, New Goals!

2012-01-04T14:13:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone! I trust that you had a wonderful and merry Christmas and New Year. Mine was great, although very busy. The time with friends and family was the greatest gift ever.

I was sipping my coffee this morning and thinking about how much things will be changing for me this year. I will be working a lot on our new, little lake house. Details, here. I also should be graduating with my degree in English in December of this year. I'm so excited! Our lives are feeling absolutely blissful for the first time in a long time. We are truly blessed.

I'm not usually one for New Year's resolutions, but this year feels different.

1.) Read the Bible in a year. (It's only three chapters a day. Totally doable!)
2.) Graduate college!
3.) Write more! (The Creative Writing class that I have this semester should help with this one.)
4.) Publish one of my shorter works (poetry/short stories).
5.) Finish my second novel.
5.) Embrace every moment!

These are a few of my top resolutions; I hope I can stick to them. What are some of your New Year's goals for your writing? Whatever they are, I hope all of you have a wonderful, prosperous, and very creative 2012!

Many blessings.

Ode to the Simple Life: An Invitation

2011-12-19T23:44:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone! I hope that all of you are having a wonderful Christmas week! I just wanted to write and invite you to stop by my new blog.

Ode to the Simple Life is a blog intended to inspire and encourage others to live life outside the box. We hope that telling our story will help others get ideas for living a simple, wonderful life. What you are about to read is the story of our journey to a more simple way of living. We are trying to escape the chains of debt, one bill, one remodel, and one home at a time. Won't you join us?
Be sure to check out the Our Story page for more details.

Thanks so much for all of your support.

Many blessings, my friends!

The Mask of the Belle

2011-12-15T20:42:00.000-06:00

TheMask of the Belle

By: Vanessa K. Eccles

That is whenI saw it, sitting inexplicitly on the third step. I was keenly aware that I hadseen it before, and that the memory, though almost forgotten, had beenimportant, pivotal actually. The silver sequins gleamed in the dull light. Thebright, royal blue paint was unscratched. I stared; trying to place the timewhen I had once saw this thing before, the time when I had once worn it. Thatdéjà vu moment faded into a faint memory from my childhood.

***

I waseight. The Christmas lights in October stood out to me as odd. Mom had spenthours decorating our back patio into a masquerade paradise, adorning everycranny with white lights. On our brand new patio table, she layered wineglasses into a small tower. Sparkling Champagne sat tauntingly on the tablebefore me, eye height. Anything that sparkles is like chocolate to a child.

***

I watched mymom put on her make up while she sat on a red velvet stool in front of herantique vanity. She looked excited, happy. Her mask lay on the bed. We hadspent a couple of hours the night before with supplies sprawled out in front ofus on the floor making the perfect mask for each of us. Mine was blue; hers wasred. She had feathers; I had sequins. Mine matched my dress and hers hers. Shepainted her lips a dark red that made them shine in the light. I sat on the bedand picked up her mask to hand to her when she was done.

“Mom?” Iasked.

“Yes,sweetie?”

“Why are wewearing masks?”

She bent downand placed her arms around me.

“Sometimespeople like to wear masks to make them feel like someone else. It’s for fun.”She smiled, took her mask, and placed it on her face.

“How do Ilook?” she asked.

“Like someoneelse.” I smiled.

She laughedher little laugh and stood in front of the mirror smiling at her reflection.

***

I went backto my room and stood in front of my princess mirror and mimicked my mom’sactions. I put on my Barbie lip gloss, my blue dress, and my sparkly mask. Ilooked at myself in the mirror and tried to smile, but I was instantly annoyedat how I could hardly see anything. The mask was itchy too. I crinkled my noseand pushed the mask up on my head like a headband.

***

I satquietly, curled up on my dad’s recliner in the living room as the guestsarrived; each dressed in elegant attire and masks. Mom seemed to know who allof them were, but I was completely confused. I only knew who people were basedoff the children they brought. A few of the guests had children, of which I hadgrown to know and despise, with the exception of Tiffany. She was my bestfriend. As soon as she walked in, I knew that tonight was going to be fun.Tiffany had a pink mask on her face and lace gloves on her hands. She lookedlike a princess.

Once all theguests arrived, Mom and Dad made a toast, and the music started. The kids weretold we could play in the garden or inside.

“Put yourmask on, Ally,” Mom said as she slid it down my face. “Remember, tonight is forfun. Pretend like you’re someone else.”

“Who should Ibe?” I asked curiously.

She smiled.

“You’re aprincess.”

***

Darwin ranloudly about the yard with the other two boys that were there. They playedhide-and-go-seek, and after a while of playing with our dolls, Tiffany and Idecided to join them.

“We want toplay,” Tiffany said as we approached the boys.

“No girlsallowed!” they screamed in unison.

“That’s nofair!” She pouted.

I watched herangry, hurt face. Then I thought of something.

“We aren’tgirls!” I screamed back to them.

“Then whatare you?”

“We’reprincesses,” I sassed.

They laughed.That was not the response I had expected. Why were they laughing?

Finally,Darwin said, “Tiffany may be a princess, but you aren’t!” They giggled again.

“Why aren’tI?” I asked innocently.

“Princessesare pretty.”

Darwin andthe boys laughed incessantly. Tiffany glared at me with sad eyes. I felt myface burn with anger and tears, and I knew of nothing else to do but run. So Idid. I ran out of the yard and into the woods right behind my house. There wasa giant oak spreading its huge arms out in the night, and that’s where I fellto my knees. Tears poured down my cheeks. I ripped the stupid blue mask off myface threw it in the dirt. I curled up at the base of the tree and cried forwhat seemed like forever. I felt my eyes grow tired and droopy, and that iswhen I saw her.

***

It was day.

She wassitting and reading in a hammock way up the oak tree. She was wearing a long,simple white dress. Her dark hair was loosely braided, and it hung over herright shoulder. She was pretty in a natural sort-of-way.

There was asmall, round tree house perched at the edge of one of the big limbs on the oaktree, almost like a fruit would hang from a fruit tree. I noticed that the treelooked different in the daylight. There were dead vines from the base of thetree up to where she was. Each vine felt coarse and prickly as I ran my fingersacross it. The vine was broken in parts, and it looked almost like snakescrawling up.

Apparently,she could not see me, which was good since I did not know how to approach heranyway. She hummed a sweet song, and I saw her smile when she saw a red bird.

I watched herfor a while until I heard something in the distance. I heard several voices.They were loud and brutish in tone. She heard them too. She let out a long ropeladder that reached to the ground. She climbed down and waited at the base ofthe tree for the guests.

She was soclose that I could almost touch her, but there was something telling me not todo or say anything. I just felt the need to be quiet. I noticed that a longnecklace with a fish emblem hung from her neck. I also noticed that she wasprobably in her twenties.

“Can I helpyou?” she asked as the people approached.

There weretwo ladies and one man. He was dressed in a black but rather casual suit andthe ladies were dressed in Sunday clothes, all were about her age. They lookedlike people from my mom’s party because all of them were wearing masquerademasks. The blonde lady wore a black one that had blue tears down one eye. Theother lady wore an orange one with feathers that reminded me of flames. The manwore a simple gray mask with nothing else on it.

“We werewondering if you could help us find Richman?” They looked at her with a strangeexpression. They looked as if she was the one that was wearing a mask on anormal day.

“You followthe road that you were on for another half mile, and you’ll be there,” sheanswered.

“Thanks.”They turned to leave but hesitated.

“We’ve heardabout you,” the one with the orange mask said. “You’re the girl who never wearsa mask.”

“That’sright,” the tree girl said boldly.

“Why?” theman asked curiously.

“Because Ihave nothing to hide.”

“We don’thave anything to hide either. These are who we are,” the one with the cryingmask said.

“Well, thisis who I am,” my girl answered softly.

“Do you justwant to be different? Do you want to be rejected by society? Why would youchoose not to wear a mask like everyone else? They represent who we are aspeople,” the man pressed for an answer.

“I don’t carethat I’m different. A mask only represents who you want to be as people, notwho you are. This is me.”

They leftmurmuring something about how strange she was and how strange she looked.

***

I spent allday watching her doing everything from brushing her hair to feeding the birds.Her life seemed peaceful. She is a princess.

At dusk, weheard a horse coming towards the tree house. I sat, huddled up against thetree, while she sat at the window of her house looking out.

A boy cameriding up on a dark brown horse with large white spots. He wore a mask that wassilver with white trimming, but he looked to have a handsome face. My tree girllooked at him through her tree house window.

“Sarah, won’tyou come down to speak to me?” he yelled up to her.

“There isnothing more for me to say. I’ve said everything that I have to say to you,James.”

She turnedher back on the window, and I lost sight of her.

“I come totell you that I’m ready to take this mask off for you. I don’t care if we haveto live in exile. I don’t care if we will be persecuted for by nearly everyone.I want to marry you, Sarah.”

I saw therope ladder be slung out of the house. She climbed down hurriedly; when shenearly reached the ground, he came and scooped her up in his arms. She buriedher head in his shoulder and cried.

“Please don’tcry. I love you for who you are.”

“I don’t wantyou to choose a life without a mask because of me. I want you to believe in whoyou are without it. I want you to believe,” she cried.

He sat hergently on the ground and tilted her face to him.

“I believe,”he said and slowly removed his mask.

Anoverwhelming sense of joy passed over me, and I clapped in excitement. Then Irealized my loudness and ceased. They did not notice. She glared lovingly inhis eyes and he in hers.

I smiled.

***

I woke up atthe base of the old oak. I could hear my parent’s party music still playing. Myface was still moist from the tears. I stood up, dusted the dirt off of my bluedress and walked to where I had thrown the mask. I picked it up and went backto the base of the tree. I dug a small hole in the loose dirt and buried themask.

***

“Where did you go?” Tiffany asked when I walked back intothe backyard.

I did notanswer. I just walked straight over to Darwin and said, “I am a girl, and I ama princess. You can just get over it!”

We all playedtogether for the rest of the night.

***

As thatmemory came back to my mind, I understood the meaning of the dream more. Ithought back on last night’s events and realized that I had somehow foundmyself like everyone else. I was wearing a mask trying to impress the “man ofmy dreams” when really the real man of my dreams loved a princess for who shewas.

***

I took themask home with me that day as I went to visit my mom. She laughed when I toldher how I remembered that party from way back when.

Before Ileft, I went outside and found that same old oak where I had buried that mask beneathlong ago. I dug in the same spot and found it. Old, peeling, and falling apart,it lay. I put the new mask next to it and covered them both back up with dirt.

I stood upand felt the breeze blow across my face. I let my long brown hair down, lookedup into the massive arms of the tree, and for the first time, in a long time,there was hope.

***

When I gothome to my apartment, I walked into my sunlight-filled bathroom, stared atmyself in front of the mirror, and realized that without the mask I lookeddifferent. I hardly recognized myself. It was like seeing an old friend’s faceagain that had been locked away in a distant memory.

I laughed.

Based off the prompt: On the third step, I saw...
Photo from Photl.

Prompt Response: "Shh... Tell Me a Secret."

2011-12-10T23:27:00.000-06:00

Based on the prompt: Tell Me a Secret

“Shh… tell me a secret,” she said with her eyes closed and with her warm breath lingering on the side of my neck.

“I don’t have any secrets,” I answered her and turned to look at her.

I glared at her long, dark lashes as they opened and revealed her bright blue eyes. There was a sort-of darkness about her. Her lips curled at the right corner, causing gentle wrinkles on an otherwise porcelain face. That look; her look, sent chills down my spine as I watched her glide to the seat in front of me. But I knew what she wanted.

“You tell me a secret,” I dared. While my heart raced a thousand beats a second, I focused on keeping my body relaxed, yet firm.

She smiled and raised her eye brow in amusement.

“You are a beast, aren’t you?”

“If a beast is an ordinary woman, then yes.” I sat back further in my chair. I placed my arms confidently on the armrests and struggled to pace my breathing.

“Ordinary? Really? That’s the word you’re going with?” she laughed under her breath.

I let my lungs fill with air. I uncrossed my legs and then crossed them in the opposite direction, while I leaned forward and looked her straight in the eyes.

“Sometimes the ordinary can be terrifying,” I whispered.

Just a quick response/intro to something bigger based off the prompt "Tell me a secret." I'd love to hear what you think so far. :)

Character Haunting

2011-11-08T14:43:00.000-06:00

Happy Fall Ya'll! Hoping that the cooler weather has left all of you inspired. I've found that fall and winter are some of the best times to write. There is no longer anything to do outside. It is too cold for the beach, lake, or park, so why not write?

A few weeks ago I read this play called Six Characters In Search of an Author by Pirandello. In the play there are six people who come to a producer and ask him if he'd be their author. One of the characters ask: "Isn't it your job to give life on the stage to imaginary people?" This got me thinking. A piece of paper or a blank document in Word is our stage. We are to create a life for imaginary people. The only problem with imaginary people is that they sometimes seem real to their author, as the play so perfectly points out. The stepdaughter in the play says:

"It is true, I would go and tempt him, time after time, in his gloomy study just as it was growing dark, when he was sitting quietly in an armchair not even bothering to switch a light on but leaving the shadows to fill the room: the shadows were swarming with us, we had come to tempt him."

Have you ever felt haunted by a character? Have you ever caught your mind exploring characters, scenery, or plot too often? I have felt haunted by every one of my MCs. It's like they are stuck in my mind and are begging to get out. They never really "live" until they are put into words.

The father says: "A character, my dear sir, can always ask a man who he is, because a character really has a life of his own, a life full of his own specific qualities, and because of these he is always "someone." While a man - I'm not speaking about you personally, of course, but man in general - well, he can be an absolute "nobody."

As writers, we have a unique opportunity to create life, to invent a new reality. We need to embrace our imaginations and explore the boundaries of the "someones" we create. We need to dive into the world inside our head and do our best to replicate it with beautiful words on a page or computer screen.

Next time you're tempted by your character to write/ give them life, I challenge you to do it. I challenge myself to do it because just as the play says: "A character never dies."

Happy writing, friends!

Weekly Prompt: "On the third step, I saw..."
Photos from Photl.
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Be Inspired: Quotes from Literature

2011-10-28T12:00:00.000-05:00

Who says writers can't be inspired by other writers? Of course they can! I am taking several literature classes right now, and I have been inspired by several one-liners that I've found throughout my reading. Sometimes these quotes can open up whole new worlds inside of our minds that can be moulded into a wonderful, new pieces of literature. I hope you enjoy.

- "One truth is clear, Whatever Is, Is Right." - Alexander Pope, "An Essay On Man"

-"...we must cultivate our own garden." -Voltaire, Candide

-"One might say that my heart and my mind do not belong to the same person." - Rousseau, Confessions: Book III

-"Our birth is but a sleep and a forgetting." - William Wordsworth, "Ode on Intimations of Immortality"

-"Beauty is truth, truth beauty." - John Keats, "Ode on a Grecian Urn"

-"[His] life had been most simple and most ordinary and therefore most terrible." - Leo Tolstoy, "The Death of Ivan Ilyich

-"If I let you kiss my hand, you'll be wanting to kiss my elbow next, and then my shoulder." - Anton Chekhov, The Cherry Orchard

-"A terrible beauty is born." - William Butler Yeats, "Easter 1916"

-"The ceremony of innocence is drowned." - Yeats, "The Second Coming"

-"Or say there is beauty with no soul at all." - Robert Browning, "Bishop Orders His Tomb to St. Praxed's Church"

-"Out went my heart's new fire and left it cold." - Robert Browning, "Childe Roland to the Dark Tower Came"

-"No Coward Soul is Mine" - Emily Bronte

-"Her tree of life drooped from the root" - Christina Rossetti, "Goblin Market"

-"Make the shut eyes of stricken spirits weep." - Algernon Charles Swinburne, "Ave Atque Vale"

-"My enemy is Madness"- Eugene Lee-Hamilton, "The New Medusa"

-"May He within Himself make pure." - Alfred Lord Tennyson, "The Epic/ Morte d' Arthur"

-"The wild unrest that lives in woe." - Alfred Lord Tennyson, "In Memoriam"

Hopefully these quotes have left you inspired. Happy writing, my friends! :)

New Orleans!

2011-10-18T13:21:00.000-05:00

As promised, these are a few pictures that I took while I was at the PCAS Conference in New Orleans. Everything went well, and we had a wonderful time!

The Tennessee Williams House

In the words of Yeats, "a terrible beauty." Most of New Orleans was terribly beautiful.

The Oak Alley Plantation. These are 300 yr. old oaks. In a word: amazing.

This is the place where William Faulkner wrote his first novel Soldier's Pay. It was amazing to see where he lived. Of course, I had to buy the book. Oh, what a weakness I have. :)

[Sarah, me, and Jennifer]

That's us all dresses up for the PCAS Conference.

PCAS Conference in New Orleans: Pop Culture Association in the South

2011-09-30T10:54:00.002-05:00

Riverwalk at the Hilton

This year I will have the privilege of attending the PCAS Conference in New Orleans. I will be presenting a paper that I wrote entitled "Falstaff and the Seven Deadly Sins" (for those of you who know Shakespeare). I am very excited and nervous because speaking in public has never been a fuerte of mine. Luckily, there are a couple other friends that are speaking as well which makes me feel a bit better.

But isn't this what it's all about? Going out there, getting your voice heard, and letting your writing speak for itself? Yes, my paper is an academic writing, not creative, but it is my writing. I plan on continuing to throw myself, head first, into anything that may expand myself and my writing.

Failure is never trying at all, and my motto has always been, "Failure is not an option." If you are on the query-go-round, or you have a chance to present your writing in any way - do it again and again! Don't let fear stifle your dreams. Take advantage of every opportunity. Embrace the curve balls. Life is truly beautiful if you live it without fear.

I will update everyone on how the conference went in a few weeks. I also promise photos. :)

Until then,

Advice?

Thoughts?

-Picture from the PCAS Website.

Encouragement

2011-09-29T20:44:00.000-05:00

My birthday was earlier this month, and it has been one of the best birthdays ever. I am blessed to have great friends and family that encourage me to tackle my dreams.

My dear friend, Jessica, got me a book signed by one of my favorite authors, with an inscription that said, "Persist." As a writer, I cannot tell you how much that meant to me. My other friend from Texas, Laura, send me a book on how to write a Christian Romance. I cannot wait to dive into that one. I am really inspired by these friends and many others who have went out of their way to encourage my dreams of writing.

I believe that encouragement is a priceless gift, and I am more than thankful.

I'd like to take this time to encourage every writer out there: PERSIST!

Encouragement- Pass it on. :)

Contest Winner And Other Thanks

2011-08-18T21:10:00.000-05:00

Drum Roll Please... And the Winner is... *cough*... *awkward silence*...

Sarah!

Many thanks to everyone who entered the contest. Sarah won my personal copy of One Day. The movie comes out tomorrow.

Also, I'd like to thank everyone who participated the the Finish The Story writing exercise that I hosted a few weeks ago. Here's what the story ended up being:

I looked down at my license - Carol Lyn White. That's not me anymore. I looked up and saw a large white crane swooping across the lake. It looked to be the epitome of grace. I glanced down at muddy water, slipped off my Christian Louboutin heels, threw my wallet as hard as I could, and placed my feet in the lake. The sun hung low among the horizon; darkness was near. I slowly stepped further into the vast water until the edge of my dress embraced the wet. I took a deep breath and immersed my body with the warmth of the lake. I stood up and brushed my hair back out of my face. My dress clung to me like a glove. As the sun faded, I walked out of the water. I took one last look back. Carol Lyn White drowned. Now I'm Vivian Crane.

I went back home and burned all the things that reminded me of Carol, it's over now. I took my car keys and drove away.

I drove non-stop for hours and hours, now sleep is creeping upon me and hunger pains are invading my stomach. Only four miles until i reach the next rest spot and 12 miles til the next motel.

Exhausted and on edge,I drive on to the motel. It had definitely seen better days, like maybe half a century ago.

Thanks to Franny, Sidne, and Blue Shedevil for your participation!

Enter For Your Chance to Win A Copy of One Day

2011-08-10T11:27:00.001-05:00

This is the first contest that I've ever had on my blog, so I am really excited! I am also excited about the movie One Day, which will be in theatres August 19th. I've read the book, and I must admit that it brought more than a few tears.

I'm giving away my personal copy of One Day. No dog-ears, I promise. ;) I thought it would be fun to get it out there in time for someone to read it before going to see the movie. Trust me, it's a quick read. You'll enjoy it.

I thought at first that it wouldn't be for me because of the reckless lifestyle one of the characters has, but in the end it shows how life has a way of beating the reckless out and filling us with the truth and meaning behind everything and everyone.

The winner will be sent an e-mail and will have 48 hours to respond before another winner is chosen. Contest ends August 17th. This contest is for US residents only, due to shipping prices.

To Enter, Click HERE.

How to Create the Greatest Character You've Always Known

2011-08-09T11:11:00.000-05:00

I can't even count the times that I heard "write what you know" in my creative writing class. As much as I do not like that saying (mostly because my life is too boring to write about), it hit me that I'm not boring. I thought that it might be fun to take aspects of myself to create a character.

Here is a few questions to ask yourself if you want to create the greatest character you've always known.

1.) What are three words that describe you?

Ex: Classy, Smart, Introvert

2.) What are two of your favorite qualities about yourself?

Ex: Kind, Generous

3.) What are two of your favorite flaws?

Ex: A tendency of being sassy and being brutally honest

4.) What are two of your favorite physical aspects?

Ex: Eyes and curly hair

5.) Write three things that your pride yourself on being?

Ex: Deep thinker, Open-minded to a point, and Analyze everything

6.) What are some of your catchy phrases that you use?

Ex: Patience is a virtue that I don't have. There are three sides to every story- your side, my side, and

the truth.

7.) What is your favorite perfume- what you always smell like?

Ex: Curious

8.) What era would best describe your personality?

Ex: 1920s

9.) Would you consider yourself a free-spirit or old-soul?

10.) Write a detailed paragraph using the answers to these questions. Be sure to describe what you would look like (your ideal self) using clothing that you would really wear and focusing on your favorite attributes. Also add a description of your personality using what is great about yourself and your flaws. Remember that for any character to be real, it has to have flaws. Luckily some flaws are charming. :)

If you have ideas for more questions, please leave them in the comment box. I'd love to read them.

Have fun!

Add Two and Share Some You: Finish the Story

2011-07-19T18:25:00.000-05:00

Grab a chair, get a cup of Joe, warm up those fingers. We've got work to do!

This is a writing exercise that I've been wanting to do for a while. Here's the rules. Below is the beginning of a story. Add two sentences to the last comment posted. You may comment more than once but not consecutively. Write whatever you want - give it some "you" flare. :)

I looked down at my license - Carol Lyn White. That's not me anymore. I looked up and saw a large white crane swooping across the lake. It looked to be the epitome of grace. I glanced down at muddy water, slipped off my Christian Louboutin heels, threw my wallet as hard as I could, and placed my feet in the lake. The sun hung low among the horizon; darkness was near. I slowly stepped further into the vast water until the edge of my dress embraced the wet. I took a deep breath and immersed my body with the warmth of the lake. I stood up and brushed my hair back out of my face. My dress clung to me like a glove. As the sun faded, I walked out of the water. I took one last look back. Carol Lyn White drowned. Now I'm Vivian Crane.

Please leave a link to your blog. I will post the final story in a separate posting on my blog, along with each of your names and links to your blogs so others can follow.

I can't wait to see what happens next. Thanks for your participation and have fun! :)

Write It and It Shall Live

2011-07-13T13:47:00.000-05:00

I receive daily devotionals via e-mail from Dr. David Jeremiah which gets my day started off right. Today's topic is one that all writers can relate to.

He quoted: "In a popular Tom Clancy novel, one of the characters continually jotted notes in a small notebook. "You have to get used to me," she said apologetically. "Whenever I have an idea, I write it down right away." It isn't safe, she explained, to entrust important matters to memory alone, adding, "If you don't write it down, then it never happened."

I don't know about you, but I have a little notebook that I keep my ideas for future pieces in. I normally take it wherever I go, so I can totally relate to the character here.

In a writer's world...

Words become living when we write them. They outlive our lives. They morph into purpose for readers. They form a world that people want to escape to. They teach morals, offer lessons, reap drama, and conjure tears. Our words live a life of their own. After each key is pressed, each sentence is completed, and after every "the end" - our story takes on life. It begins to live and breath in a world that is far larger than the one we as writers live.

We are each entrusted with a story, one that (if you're like me) we can't wait to get out. Each character screams at us until what they wanted to say is on paper. It really makes me wonder.

Is the reason why we feel guilty when we don't write because - "if I don't write it down, it never happened?"

Are we committing murder to the characters we possess if we never tell their story?

Character Confusion: The Boundary Between You and Your Character

2011-07-07T15:11:00.000-05:00

As you all know, I have been working hard on my second novel. I've found that it is more difficult to reach the end of this book than it was with my first one. I'm having a bit of a dilemma that I'm hoping for some advice on.

I've been told who knows how many times in my literature classes that just because as author writes it, doesn't mean that's their personal opinion. I've been able to look past that judgement when reading, but I wonder... what about mainstream readers? Are they always associating fictitious characters, plots, ideas with their writer? Or, do most people take it for what it is - fiction.

This is why it's a bit of a problem for me. My character, Sophie, is nothing like me. She's loud, promiscuous, and gets into more trouble than she knew existed. Also, the novel is a paranormal romance. I'm writing about a little of what I believe to be true and a lot of just "for fun" details. There is good moral and ending to the novel, but that's just it - it's the ending. I just don't want every reader to think that I believe everything that I put in my book.

So, here's where I need your help:

As a reader, as a writer - do you associate ideas/characters in a novel to the writer?

The Writer's Block: My Forum for Writers

2011-07-05T10:21:00.000-05:00

Hello all!

I just opened up a forum on my blog for writers. I am super exctied to see what everyone has to say. I thought this would be a great way to help encourage and support one another in the literary process. The forum is geared mainly for writers, but readers are welcome too.

You can post:
-About Query Process
-About Favorite Books
-About Writing Contests
-About E-books vs. Traditional Publishing
-About Vanity Publishing
-Questions
-Tips
-Comments

These are just a few ideas. Have fun with it!

And Welcome to the Writer's Block!

"Curiouser and Curiouser," Alice says to the white rabbit.

2011-07-03T21:27:00.000-05:00

Quick Post: First of all, I hope all of you are having a wonderful and blessed 4th of July weekend. It's been a fun time here with eating, swimming with the gators, and getting little to nothing accomplished. Gotta love those kinds of weekends, right? :)

Anywho - I am totally a fan of Alice in Wonderland. The quote in the title really got me thinking today how our words (as writers) can really stick with people. We need to take thought into creating these sort of "catch phrases." Why? Phrases remind readers of the mind set they were in when reading your work. Of course, it's easier to remember phrases when we hear them in movies. That's only more reason to make ours stronger, more gripping.

I'm reading a book right now by Karen Kingsbury, and I've noticed that she knows what she's doing with readers. She ends every chapter with a phrase that makes me want to keep reading.

We all try to captivate our audiences with words. We are word wizards in search for the perfect phrase that will entice our readers enough to keep reading. And not only keep reading but love it while they do it.

So here's my challenge to you... fellow writer, reader, or friend... Give it your best shot. What's the best one-liner you can come up with right now- this minute. Have fun with it; sell me on your story, character, or idea. Make me want to turn the next page.

Make me curiouser and curiouser. :)

Chapter Excerpt from My Novel

2011-06-24T14:12:00.001-05:00

I am excited to share with my readers a short chapter in my book Realm of Desire. I've decided to leave it unedited - with all the original scrapes and dents, which only add character, right? I wanted to give readers a glimpse of Sophie in her rawest form- a torn woman in every sense of the word. Leave comments if you like. I'd love to read them. Oh, I almost forgot... Enjoy! :)

Chapter 21

After dinner, Trevor sat in front of the T.V. completely fixated on whatever comic crap was on. It’s amazing to me how people are so oblivious to life because they spend so much time trying to avoid it by filling their heads with meaninglessness.

I wandered into my bedroom, thinking of my mom. I just couldn’t believe that I was going to see her again. Why had I not ever saw that as a possibility before? I’ve seen Lily and countless other dead people. Why not her?

There was a sense of guilt for not having thought of her in so long.

I walked to my closet. I pushed back all of my clothes until I reached the very edge wall. There hung my mom’s favorite dress and a few other things of hers. The social worker had only sent me the things that I requested, things that I thought that I would spend a lot of time clinging to. The truth is, I hadn’t so much as looked at this dress in years. I pulled it out of the closet. I held it to my nose and inhaled the scent. Her scent. The scent of knock-off Chanel perfume and Suave body wash. How could it still smell like her after all this time? Tears filled my eyes. I put the hanger around my head and lay the dress in front of me. I looked in the mirror, and as the dress covered the front of me, I swayed from side to side remembering how she had danced around the kitchen in this dress the one time that I could remember getting an A in class. Oh, how I regret being such a bad daughter to her.

I lay the dress down on the bed, and I walked over to where I kept her urn. I reached down to pick it up and a cold chill came over me. Chill bumps lined my limbs. I lifted it to my stomach and clung to it as I did on the long ride to Alabama. This was my mother; this is what a hug from her feels like now.

To read the rest of the chapter click here.

How to Create Your Own Chapbook

2011-06-22T14:50:00.000-05:00

As promised, I decided to do my very best to write a "how-to" guide to creating your very own chapbook.

So, here's my disclaimer:

I've only done this once, but I printed several copies. Yep, and I have to admit that it was the biggest nightmare ever. But I was pleasantly surprised with the results.

Here's mine:

I made this one for my Creative Writing class last semester. I chose to do the simple black and white look (mostly because I only keep black ink in my printer). lol These make great mini-books to give away to friends and family or sell them for a few bucks a piece.

What to include on the front page:

1.) Title

2.) Sub-title (optional but it looks more professional)

3.) A graphic design of some sort

4.) Author's name (do not put "written by")

What to include on the inside:

1.) Table of Contents

2.) Dedication (optional)

3.) Several pages of your work (make sure it's even numbered)

4.) About the Author page (include photo and short bio)

5.) Page numbers

Don't forget to add something to the back of the book. You know; you're hallmark. :)

Okay. Here's what I found worked best. I created a template. I laid the appropriate amount of sheets of paper, folded them in half, and numbered every page. (This means that there is two numbers on the front and back of every piece of paper.) The tricky part is figuring out how to place the work so that it reads from one page to the next. Use Microsoft Word's two column option to start the process. Copy and paste your work in the first column and place the rest of that work (if needed) on the page that you labeled 2. Keep in mind that your work will be split up when you look at print preview. Part of a work will be on one page and the rest may be on another separate sheet. Another thing that I've discovered is that when you start to copy and paste for the pages on the back, reverse them. Be sure to print the front of one page and the back of that page immediately after. Okay, I know super confusing. Here is some additional help: eHow.

A lot of making a chapbook comes through trial and error, unfortunately. Only format and print two pages at a time to make sure that it is working when they are folded. I always print the cover last with a thicker paper/card stock.

Also, when you go to print... turn it to the landscape option. Print the first page and then stop. Turn that page over and print the back of that page.

Making a chapbook is tough to figure out in the beginning, but once you've done a couple, you'll get the swing of things. I hope my feeble attempt at directions helps bring your work to print.

Playing Catch Up!

2011-06-21T13:23:00.001-05:00

Hello to all my faithful blog followers... a BIG thanks to y'all for that, by the way. My summer has been flying by and with it so have my summer goals. There have been so many things I wanted to post and talk about, but instead I've been moving across the country. For anyone who has never done that, it is a monumental task.

Anyway, there are a few things that I have been needing to catch up on. I wanted to say a BIG thanks to my friend Pam Asberry for giving me the Stylish Blogger Award. You're the best! ;)

I am suppose to send it to 7 people and tell you 7 interesting things about myself. I've recently done this on previous post, so instead I'm going to tell you 7 projects that I am working on or going to be working on soon.

1.) A book of Inspirational Poetry
2.) My second novel (expecting to be done by end of summer)
3.) A book of my short stories
4.) Re-edit my first novel
5.) Start on a novella (medieval modern)
6.) Do some character analysis with my next few MC's
7.) Start another creative writing class

Now to the fun part - the winners!

1.) Donna
2.) Deborah Lawrenson
3.) Elizabeth
4.) Fairday Morrow
5.) Diana
6.) BookLuvr Mindy
7.) Miss Good on Paper

If you have time, you should really check these wonderful blogs out and leave positive comments. There is much to be said about words of support and encouragement.

Well... I have better be getting back to writing. Got to meet those daily goals...

Next post: The joys (more like the nightmare) of making a Chap Book. :)

Moving Right Along

2011-05-25T15:28:00.000-05:00

We found out that we are moving back to Alabama for good. My husband received another job, and we are very excited. We will finally be back home with our friends and family. While this is great news for us, it has really put a damper on my writing. I've been packing, preparing for our house to sell, and planning for where we go next. Things are crazy right now, but we are so blessed. We're moving this weekend. I'm hoping after we get settled that I'll be able to focus the rest of the summer to writing. Even if my plans have fallen a part a little bit, getting to move is more than I could have ever hoped for.

May 14th: Journal Entry

2011-05-14T17:03:00.000-05:00

May 14, 2011

Between movies, music, and general occurrences, the circus keeps coming up. I recently watched Water for Elephants, which was awesome by the way, and there is a train nearby that reminds me of some of the characters in the movie. I’m feeling extra inspired by some of these circus folk. They are dynamic and unpredictable, which makes for a good story or in this case – a poem.

It’s a Circus

By: Vanessa K. Eccles

Once upon a dreary land,

There was circus girl.

She was an orphan that could land

On her feet and give a twirl.

She could twist and turn

and flip and spin.

Watching would make stomachs churn,

but she’d do it again and again.

She was petite and white

as a porcelain doll.

Her curls were tight

but soft as they’d fall.

Her eyes gleamed blue.

Her lips were red.

Her dressed glimmered too,

and her arms were graceful as she lead.

She’d guide the beast

from left to right.

The audience had no idea, in the least

what had been her fight.

She related to these wild things

because she was one of their kind.

At night her pearly teeth would turn to fangs,

and often she would find

herself in a room with a stranger

But this time… she was not the one in danger.

© Copyright 2011

Character Development: Let's Play 20 Questions

2011-05-11T19:25:00.000-05:00

First off, I just wanted to provide a little update on how the 80 Days of Writing is coming. All is well! It's been fun to sit down and write everyday. I have mostly found myself writing poetry, but I'm hoping to get in a few short stories eventually. It's been nice to focus on writing instead of school.

I thought it would be fun to play 20 questions with our characters. I strongly feel that the more we know our own characters, the more likely it is that we will think like them when we write. These may helpful for your upcoming pieces.

1.) What is their name? [full name: first, middle, last]
2.) How old is he/she? Birth date?
3.) Where did he/she grow up?
4.) What time period do they live?
5.) What do they do for a living?
6.) What age range does the book cover?
7.) Was there any specific event in their past that has helped develop their character?
8.) Who is their closest friend?
9.) What will they face in your story or book?
10.) Married?
11.) Single?
12.) Divorced?
13.) Any children? Names?
14.) What is he/she's goals in life?
15.) Who is their love interest?
16.) What do they look like? [hair, eyes, frame]
17.) What is he/she's character strengths?
18.) What is he/she's character flaws?
19.) What will they overcome in your story or book?
20.) What do they cherish the most? [family, child, love, job]

Hope this list of questions will help you develop your characters a little more. Have fun with it! These could easily turn into a character analysis. Good luck on your summer writing!

Read you later!

Summer Write-A-Thon: 80 Days of Writing

2011-04-16T19:37:00.000-05:00

This photo was taken last summer in Texas. That's me with a real dragonfly on my nose (I promise). I have been looking so very forward to my summer this year. I will be leaving beautiful Alabama to go back to Texas.

I have been thinking of what I'm going to do with all my extra time when I get there, and I've decided that I am going to write! I still have a ways to go to finish my second novel, so that is first on the agenda. But second to that, I have been thinking of doing a write-a-thon. I will write something (even if it's just a short poem) everyday for 80 days. I will then compile the pieces and have them published (mostly for myself), but if others are interested, I wouldn't mind selling them (affordably, of course) and donate the earnings to a charity.

I've been feeling so stifled because I have not been able to write like I would like to. It's been a tough past few months, and my schedule never seems to slow down. That's why I'm looking forward to some quiet time back in Texas.

These are my plans for the summer; what are yours?

What is a Poet?

2011-04-13T13:26:00.000-05:00

I used the Oxford English Dictionary's definition of poet and developed it with my own thoughts. Here is what I come up with:

What is a Poet?

By: Vanessa K. Eccles

A person with an emphatic sense of wonder
with verses distinguished by unimaginable insight.
A work of utter inspiration.
A seer, sensitive to his/her surroundings.

A poet is one with forcible vision,
the remarkable power of imagination.
Never short in inventing creative worlds.
Never lacks words of expression.

A poet is a scientist
mixing formulas of words.
A person who captures moments
and releases them even more beautiful.

They are truth seekers,
looking for the striking.
They are master photographers,
turning 1,000 words to a line.

They are image producers
with the slash of a pen.
They are thought provoking,
keeping readers at wonder.

Can a poet be created?
With practice be invented?
They have an extraordinary eye,
one that sees the soul.
Poets are born.

A poet is a bird
with an unusual song.
You want to listen
and sing a long.

(C) Copyright 2011

My Indulgent Escape in Words

2011-04-12T00:01:00.000-05:00

Wow! When I feel that I cannot get any more stressed, I always find out that I'm wrong. My professor told us today that we will have a speaking engagement on Wednesday night at a local trendy restaurant. I suppose that it will be sort of like a poetry slam. He's giving us two days to prepare. Thanks for the heads up [insert hint of sarcasm here].

The stress is mounting. I am having a really hard time keeping everything together these past two weeks. My life is going in every direction, and I'm finding it hard to keep up. My 15 credit hour schedule at school is slowly killing me. I have over-extended myself, and the only way to release my frustrations is through written words. It reminds me of that Babyface song (showing my age here) "Nobody knows it but me." But there is one other that knows; it's my notebook. The place where I spill my words and tears, sometimes.

Have you ever felt like no one could possibly understand you better than your pen and paper? I think all writers feel this way at times.

I guess my question is - Is writing a form of escapism?

Do we, as writers, tend to use our forms of expression as ways to escape from the often times painful worlds that we live in? Most people rely on video games, music, or television to escape, but we rely on our over-indulgence of words. When I get bored or upset with my own life, I simply dive into Lizzie's or Sophie's life (the MCs in my novels). I can't get away fast enough, and I find myself thinking about them when I know that I should be thinking of other things.

It's an interesting thing- the mind of a writer. There are always multiple worlds in our minds, and it's not hard for us to escape into them. Does this then blur the lines of reality for us? Okay, now I'm getting deep. I shall save that conversation for a later date.

Anyway, when you are down and out, do you turn to ice-cream and television or a beautiful white piece of paper (screen)? Maybe this is a good way to tell how serious your writing obsession has become. I know my answer, what's yours?

Research and Writing

2011-04-08T17:42:00.000-05:00

What a week! I have been avidly working on a research paper for my Shakespeare class for a week and a half now. I had to read an entire book, spend countless hours looking up information, and writing and re-writing.

It reminded me of all the research I did when I was writing my first book. The novel took place in 1880, so I had to look up everything. I needed to know how they dressed and talked. I needed to know popular names for the time period. I also needed to know what were popular professions. I even had to know how Lizzie would have worn her hair in order to note every detail. Whatever ideas I had about my characters had to fit in with the truth about society during that time.

I had notes on random sheets of paper, in several differnt notebooks, and even a few on a computer file. The entire process became total chaos. It's a lot harder to write what you don't know, but it's so much fun learning about the world that you are hoping to create.

When you were in college, were research papers fun or torture? For me, it depends on what I'm writing about. I love to try and bring up something new and unusual and then argue my point. But it has to be something I'm passionate about. I think it's the same way with novels. We have to be passionate about our projects, enough to work on them diligently, day and night, until every last detail is figured out.

That brings me to my question - Do writers have to become professional researchers?

Plot, Theme, Summary - And all that complicated stuff...

2011-04-04T15:15:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone! This is going to be a quick post. I am currently writing a monster of a research paper that has kept me confined to the books all weekend.

Anywho - Happy Monday!

I have been inspired by some Shakespeare this week. Okay, well... not really Shakespeare but a Shakespeare assignment. My professor asks us to fill out play checklists after reading each play. I think that some of these questions are perfect for creative writing.

When we are planning to write a short story, novella, or novel, we need to be able to answer the following questions quickly.

Who are the impact characters of your story?
What is the main setting and time period of your story?
What are the thematic concerns?
What is the plot?
What is the summary of the story?

After answering these questions, we also need to be able to break the summary up into major events. This creates a working outline.

The Beginning
The first major event/problem
The climax/the most important major event
Another major event/problem
Conclusion

This outline should be pretty easy to sum up if you've thought a lot about your story. You should also be able to reflect and answer these questions for anything that you've written in the past. Of course, this outline can become really complicated when you get to longer pieces (esp. novels).

Answering these questions can help us focus our thoughts about our stories, before ever beginning to write. Ideas will develop more throughout the writing process, but it's good to know where you're going and how you plan on getting there.

I plan on posting more about all of these things in the future. These are the rocks in the foundation of our writing, and we don't need to take them lightly.

Hopefully, this is an exercise that you can use to help focus your writing. I know it sure is helping me.

Read you later. :)

And the Award Goes To...

2011-03-26T22:30:00.000-05:00

It's Blogger Award time! YaY! My friend, Gabby, just passed this award to me. Much obliged, my friend. Now I have to pass it to 7 other people and answer 7 interesting questions about myself.

This should be fun, right?

Humm... Let's see.

1.) I won my first short story contest at the age of 6. It was a "big book," and it landed me a seat with real (adult) authors in a creative writing conference at Troy University Dothan.

2.) My first poem was published at the age of 12.

3.) I started my first novel way back in high school, and it wasn't until 6 years later that I picked it up and actually finished it.

4.) I met the love of my life way before I knew he was. If you would have told me that we would be married back then - I would have laughed.

5.) I hated reading when I was a kid/teen. I know, I know... pure sinful for a writer. I'm making up for lost time now.

6.) My major in college was originally History. It was my first love, and is now my minor.

7.) I would love to live in a big red barn someday. Yes, I'm serious.

You can't get much more random than that. (lol) That wasn't too bad. Now I must nominate 7 bloggers for the award.

1.) From Sarah, With Joy
2.) a tailored line
3.) Veritas 4 Five
4.) girlaboutbooks
5.) TheSecretWriter
6.) Paperback Writer
7.) TLC Photography

These are some amazing blogs. A couple of them are good friends, and the others are just blogs I love. Check them out! Anyway, I've done my job. Happy writing or reading - whatever your thing is. :)

100th Birthday of Tennessee Williams

2011-03-26T18:03:00.000-05:00

Tennessee Williams would have been 100 years old today. He was a remarkable dramatist, and he remains an important writer in American literature.

Ironically, this week in my American literature class, I read my first work by Mr. Williams. A Streetcar Named Desire was absolutely wonderful. I found myself loving or hating the characters early on, and I can't tell you how much I've thought about the play since I've read it. Now that is good writing. There have been two movies (that I know of) based off of the play. One was filmed in the 50's and the other was in 1995 and features Alec Baldwin. It was a great movie.

It is always amazing to think about how words outlive us. Writing is like a time capsule of our thoughts in a solitary moment that will engrave itself on paper/screen for years. Our work, ideas, and creativity can grace the pages of literary books long after we're gone.

It reminds me of Shakespeare... the greatest quote I've heard about him is: "Shakespeare never grew up knowing he'd be Shakespeare." He just did what he loved. We will never know how vast our potential can spread. All I know is that maybe somehow, somewhere in 100 years, my words will still be read.

Mr. Tennessee Williams - Happy Birthday. May your words still captivate audiences for 100 more.

My Beautiful Spring Day

2011-03-25T21:37:00.001-05:00

Okay, so admittedly this is not a "real" post about creative writing, but it is a post about things that inspire me. Nature is my muse very often - especially in poetry. Spring has given me much to write about this year. I don't think that I've ever been more excited to see warmer weather come! Winter is the worst season for me. The gray skies, cold temperatures, and dead vegetation is nothing short of depressing.

I just figured that I'd share with all of you what I did today. I planted some herbs (super excited about that). To your left I have Lavender and Rosemary, which smell wonderful!

Below is my tomato plant. I've never had much luck growing tomatoes, but who knows, maybe this is my year to get it right. Hopefully, I'll have some plump, red balls of yum hanging from it soon. :)

I gave my mom my beautiful Ric-rack cactus, and I've been sad about it ever since. I decided to take some clippings of it and see if I can't get it to work for me.

My sweet mom allowed me to get some clippings from her beautiful jasmine plants. I really hope they take. I have always wanted some. I can't wait to smell their sweet blooms.

Below is a picture of more of my herbs and some jalapeno peppers (yum). I can't wait to see little green goodies hang from the branches. So excited.

This is the mother of all spider plants, is it not? There are 11 clay pots carrying the babies of the mother plant that is sitting in the middle. It is craziness! What's even more surprising is that if we had more pots, we would still have more babies to put in them. Wow - that's all I can say.

Anyway, sorry if I got a bit off topic with this post. At least I was able to add some pictures (which is the downside to a writing blog). Hope you are feeling inspired by the season.

Be blessed!

New York Times Creative Writing: Poetry waiting to be written

2011-03-23T10:20:00.001-05:00

The other day, the assignment in my Creative Writing class was to write a poem using headlines out of the New York Times. He passed us all out papers, and he gave us 30 minutes to complete at least a 20 line poem. At first, I think we all were panicking a bit, but it turned out to be a little adventure. It really was poetry waiting to be written.

We could split the headlines, use half here, half there. We also could add a few words to the line to make it make sense. It was the March 14th copy. Here is what I came up with. The * means that this is the headline.

The Tricky Times

I've never been good at *betting on not-so-sure things*.
I always leave *feeling burned*.
I detest the *twilight's mysteries*.
And the gambler *winning at cards*.
My *aim is true*.
I don't gamble *for all the wrong reasons*.
For a bid *can be brave or foolhardy*.
And *very tiny packages can lead to very bad things*.
A beautiful flower can be *a prickly pear* instead.
So this is this *woman's desperate proposition*:
If there's *lockouts and loopholes* be aware!
The sudden *lack of rules and penalties* extends to us all.
*Beginners luck* makes for an ominous beginning.
We all turn out to have *not-so-kind enemies*.
*Our culture will proceed*.
*Soaring ambitions* can lead to disaster.
Bet only when you're *in the glow*.
Let your heart and magic *roll the dice of chance*.
When you have *questions and amendments to reshape your path* remember:
Every dog *has its day*,
Especially in *love and trick*.

Ode to The Ones I Love:

2011-02-14T11:33:00.000-06:00

Hello and Happy Heart Day to you! Love is in the air today. You can smell it like a sweet perfume. And oh, how enticing it is. We all (meaning ladies) get into the chocolates, flowers, and teddy bears this time of year. All of that is well and good and all, but are we really taking in the true meaning of this lovely day? Today is the day to tell and show people you love them, not with just gifts, but with actions. Go out of your way to do something for your spouse, friend, and family. Say something nice; really think kind thoughts about them. Share the love to everyone you meet today!

To my wonderful husband: You are the love of my life. You make everything better by just being there. You bring adventure to our little lives, and I love you for it. Thanks for all that you do, and thanks for loving me as much as you do. You are the best.

To my family: Oh, how I've missed you since I've moved to Texas. I am more than happy to be back and active in your lives again. Y'all are wonderful and supportive of everything I do, and I cannot tell you how much that means to me. Thank you for everything. I love you.

To my friends: Y'all are the people who I feel safe enough to share myself with. Thank you for your support, love, and kindness. Thanks for your open hearts, open ears, and open arms. I love you.

To my Discipleship Class: Y'all are the biggest blessing I've received this year. Your smiles and hugs have been wonderful. Your eager and loving hearts have strengthened my heart. Y'all encourage me so much. You are the light to my week. I love y'all.

What's Taking You Captive?

2011-02-13T23:30:00.000-06:00

For the past few weeks, I've become aware of things that are captivating my attention. Things that really don't deserve my attention at all. The past few months my time has been spent in one of three ways: church, school work, computer. Church, of course, deserves more time than I can possibly give, and in order to pass my classes, I have to concentrate a lot of effort on school work. But the computer? It's given that I need the Internet a lot in order to do research for papers and such, but I spend more time on places like Facebook than I should.

My pastor spoke the other week on how things captivate our minds, and those things end up stealing our time. I know that what I do on Facebook will not matter to me (or anyone else probably) tomorrow or the next day. It has become a thief of my time. I think I spend more time reading what other people are doing than I devote to sharing my feelings. This has drawn me to the conclusion that I'm must be more interested in reading about other people's lives than I am living mine. How crazy is that? I would log on 4-5 times a day! Yes, it's only for a minute or two at a time, but it's ridiculous. So, I've decided in order to ween myself off a bit, I'm going to take a sabbatical from Facebook for a few weeks. Wish me luck!

I'm taking captive my thoughts again. I'm going to devote time to things that matter. Things that will influence my future. Things that will improve my life and the life of others. So long idol time. My life is wonderful, and I need to rejoice in that.

I'm going to leave you with a thought - What accomplishments are you most proud of ? Now, of those accomplishments, which will affect your life or other peoples' lives in 5 years? 10 years? 25 years? 100 years? 1,000 years? What you do today can affect the lives of everyone in your town, country, or world. My pastor asked us that today. Our world is changed by actions not idol time.

Update: Spoken Word

2011-02-09T10:47:00.000-06:00

I told you all that I'd let you know about my Spoken Word performance/ Creative Writing assignment. I went ahead and added a video of me reading the poem. I didn't get as animated or loud in the reading as I did in class - consider yourselves spared. (lol) Anyway, everything went okay. I didn't get up and pass out in front of everyone. I didn't even break out in hives. So all went well. I got some great feedback and some helpful critique. Keep in mind that this is still in it's rough draft form because I have yet to make any changes.

The piece is inspired by the pressure and frustration that some young women, including myself, sometimes feel by society. The "perfect woman" doesn't exist, let's just face it. This is my rant about how society shouldn't expect certain things from women. We are all individuals with different goals, dreams, beliefs, and purpose. What's beautiful is that it's okay. It's okay to be you, and it's okay to be me. We are all perfectly imperfect.

I just wanted to share. Hope you enjoy. :)

-Vanessa

Power in the Spoken Word

2011-02-04T22:57:00.001-06:00

This week in my Creative Writing class we were assigned to give a Spoken Word. What is that? According to Answers it is:

(spō'kən-wûrd')

adj.
1.Spoken aloud, especially in performance: spoken-word poetry.

2.Performing or involving a performance of the spoken word: "Whenever [a newspaper] covers the poetry world, you can bet you will find spoken-word and street poets railing against the prudishness of the 'academic poets'" (Maureen McLane).

I have found it challenging to think of something that I can find such emotion about and still capture the attention of my audience (which is my class). I have to find something they can relate to. This woman (in the video) does an amazing job of saying how amazing Jesus is. This video truly inspired me.

I have an idea for my little performance, and although I'm terrified, it's always good to step outside that box. Expanding yourself into something you never knew you could be. It's amazing... this whole creative process. Sometimes I wonder how I've ever lived or breathed without writing or at least thinking about writing.

It's funny, I used to pray for inspiration. Now I just pray for a chance to write it. Ideas are flowing like running water; I'm just trying to keep up.

Who knows? Maybe I'll fall in love with writing Spoken Word. I'll get back to you on that one AFTER I have my first taste of it on Monday. :)

Prompt-A-Thon: Send me a prompt idea!

2011-01-30T15:11:00.000-06:00

Happy Sunday, friends! I thought that it might be fun to send a shout out to gather up some prompts for a project that I may be starting soon. I've found that prompt writing is fun, and I have written dozens of short stories based on them.

So what is a prompt? A prompt is a word, idea, or phrase. They are typically not a sentence. A few examples:

Nature of the Beast
Honor
Love at first sight

What I'm asking ALL of you (seriously, everyone) to do is send me a prompt. It can be anything. Have fun with it. I need your help. Send me one; send me five! It doens't matter how many.

Be my next piece of inspiration. Be my muse!

This Week in the Story of My Life:

2011-01-29T00:29:00.002-06:00

One of my many New Year's Resolutions was to better manage my time. I have been doing a lot better. This is only my second semester back in college, so it has taken me some time to adjust. Last semester I was having a hard time keeping up with my homework, my daily Bible reading, and every other obligation that I have. Sometimes I honestly feel like I'm drowning, but I am blessed to have new opportunities.

So, what am I doing differently? I make it a point to do a little homework/studying every day. Yes, every day! If I miss a day, then I'm swamped the next day. To get my Bible reading in, I've started listening to the Daily Audio Bible (which is really awesome). I am totally hooked.

Unfortunately, I still haven't been able to write like I would like. When I'm done with school, homework, intern work, listening to the Bible, and leading a class at church - I'm exhausted! I am in my first Creative Writing class (which I'm loving), and it has helped me get those creative juices flowing. So far I've written 2 poems and three short stories. You may see a few on here sometime, who knows. Speaking of writing, I submitted in a First Paragraph Contest, which is pretty brilliant. It's all in good fun. I've also sent my poem entitled "I Stand Alone," for possible publication, and I've entered a novel contest. My theory is I just send something in every week. I'm bound to increase my chances at getting more of my pieces published. Right? :)

I also added some information on the pages to your right --> . There are links to more of my writings under the About Me section. In the About My Novel section, you can read one of my many query letters for my novel Georgia. There is also a small except from my new novel currently entitled Realm of Desire.

So for now, I'm still trying to keep up with this crazy life that I have, but the goal is to be able to fit everything into one day/24 hour period. There truly is not enough hours. I feel like I need a vacation at the end of every day. All I got to say is, thank God for Sundays!

A Few of My Favorite Things...

2011-01-22T15:44:00.001-06:00

Being as I am an avid reader, it may come as a surprise that I can limit my favorite books to so few. Well, guess what? I can't. These are only a handful of my favorite books. There is no possible way to fit them all into one picture.

What made me think of my favorite books was yesterday, Friday (my thrift store shopping day), I found a Jane Eyre book. I instantly had a flash back to senior year in high school, when I read this book. I can remember sitting in my big ol' chair in my purple bedroom reading a beautiful love story and loving it. My heart for Literature was only starting to form then, and I accredit books like Jane Eyre to the reader/writer that I am today. I found it interesting, also, that the book (which is pretty old) originally cost 65 cents! Amazing, right? Unbelievable, actually. How nice it would be to walk into Barnes and Nobles and NOT spend fifty dollars. I would have many libraries filled if all books were under a dollar.

My complied list of favs are as followed:

Radical By: David Platt - Very inspirational, non-fiction, Christian
Cast of Characters By: Max Lucado - Inspirational, Modern Bible Stories, Christian
Pride and Prejudice By: Jane Austen - Wonderful Romance
Book of Poetry By: Robert Frost - One book that stays on my nightstand

How to Know the Most Famous Person in the World

2011-01-16T23:46:00.001-06:00

Have you ever wanted to meet someone famous? Have you ever thought about what you would do if you walked up on your favorite actor/actress? What if they sat at the table right next to you at the coffee shop? What would you say? Would you ask them for their autograph?

In a world where Entertainment is the center and famous people determine what we wear, what slang we use, and how we see "beautiful," there is an entirely differnt famous person that should be the model of our lives. He has been the most famous person in the world for the past 2,000 years. He's made the most headlines. More songs and books have been written about Him than any other. His word has inspired archeological digs and has changed countless lives. Meet Jesus.

How can you get to know Him?
1.) Find a church. Find a place that will feed your soul. We are created to live in community with one another and Him. Chuch provides encouragement that we often don't find in our everyday lives. We also need accountability. If no one is asking us if we're reading, praying, growing - we may find that we don't. We get the substance we need from church, and we use what we learn there when we go home, work, etc.
2.)Pray - Use a prayer model. Just start talking. It doesn't matter if you know how. Don't worry about feeling stupid, sounding stupid - He doesn't care. He has been with you at your worst moments and has seen every sin and deed that is locked away in your closet. There is nothing hidden between you and your Father. Realize that, and instead of hiding, build a relationship with the One who loves you most.
3.)Read His word - Reading the Bible is the most active ways to learn what God wants you to do. He gives descriptions of who He wants us to be, and how He wants us to treat others. He reveals Himself in every passage. This is His living word that speaks to us. It is our road map to life. All we have to do is read it. Want to know how He feels about marriage? Read it. How He feels about adultry? Read it. What about how He loves His children? Read it. It's all there. Everything you have ever wanted to know. How to raise children to how to prosper - it's there.

A little about the Bible:

The Bible tells of His story and the miracles that He performed. It explains His death at the cross for our sins. The Bible was written over the span of 1,500 years, written in 3 different languages, and ranges from divinely inspired kings to peasants. It covers every topic and every walk. Although it was written ages ago, it still speaks to every generation. How a book can be relevent from century to century is beyond human explanation.

Remember:
There is no one worth knowing or meeting more than our Father. What's amazing about it all is that He is there knocking- waiting for you to open the door of your heart. He wants to know you. He is waiting to be the man sitting next to you at the coffee shop, the man standing next to you at work giving you a smile, and the man holding you when you break down in tears. He is waiting to dwell within you always. No matter where you are or where you go - He is wanting to be there comforting you, encouaging you, loving you. And perhaps on one of those meetings you decide to ask the most famous person in the world for His autograph... I have a feeling that He would simply write, "Love."

Special Thanks:
I give a special thanks to my wonderful pastor who inspired me with one of his sermons today. To hear life changing messages, visit here. Also I'd like to thank my dear friend, Laura, for the sweet little gift pictured above.

Be blessed.

American Lit. Lesson 1

2011-01-09T15:14:00.001-06:00

THE CHAMBERED NAUTILUS
by: Oliver Wendell Holmes (1809-1894)

HIS is the ship of pearl, which, poets feign,
Sails the unshadowed main, --
The venturous bark that flings
On the sweet summer wind its purpled wings
In gulfs enchanted, where the Siren sings,
And coral reefs lie bare,
Where the cold sea-maids rise to sun their streaming hair.

Its webs of living gauze no more unfurl;
Wrecked is the ship of pearl!
And every chambered cell,
Where its dim dreaming life was wont to dwell,
As the frail tenant shaped his growing shell,
Before thee lies revealed, --
Its irised ceiling rent, its sunless crypt unsealed!

Year after year beheld the silent toil
That spread his lustrous coil;
Still, as the spiral grew,
He left the past year's dwelling for the new,
Stole with soft step its shining archway through,
Built up its idle door,
Stretched in his last-found home, and knew the old no more.

Thanks for the heavenly message brought by thee,
Child of the wandering sea,
Cast from her lap, forlorn!
From thy dead lips a clearer note is born
Than ever Triton blew from wreathèd horn!
While on mine ear it rings,
Through the deep caves of thought I hear a voice that sings: --

Build thee more stately mansions, O my soul,
As the swift seasons roll!
Leave thy low-vaulted past!
Let each new temple, nobler than the last,
Shut thee from heaven with a dome more vast,
Till thou at length art free,
Leaving thine outgrown shell by life's unresting sea!

"The Chambered Nautilus" is the perfect example of early American poetry. It rhymes, it has a great happily-ever-after ending, and it keeps true to form. Oliver Wendell Holmes, along with 4 other poets, were among the most widely read and studied during the early to mid 1800s.
-Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
-John Greenleaf Whittier
-James Russell Lowell
-William Cullen Bryant
The need for happy endings was great in America during this time because life was hard. People died young. Death and tragedy were knocking at everyone's front door.

The speaker is walking upon the beach, and he comes across this Nautilus shell. It's broken and weary. There is nothing living inside it - it's just a shell of a life once lived. Instead of seeing it only in its brokenness, the speaker sees that there's a story to be told and a lesson to be learned by this shattered shell.

"The Chambered Nautilus" speaks of a sea-creature called a Nautilus that grows out of its shell every year. It has to add a new, bigger chamber annually to live in. Since it is always adding to its former body, it creates a round vessel. When the Nautilus leaves its old chamber for its new chamber, it builds a wall closing off the old one. The Nautilus is always moving forward, never able to move backward. Every chamber is bigger and better than the one before it. As the Nautilus closes one door, a better one opens. At the end, the Nautilus has passed on and the speaker describes it as a glorious event, "Till thou at length art free / Leaving thine outgrown shell by life's unresting sea." (ll. 34-35) No matter what happens- life goes on. We keep moving forward, even when we think we can't. There is a true blessing in that.
Terms:

Sirens (l. 5) - They are mythical creatures. Women, who sing to sailors in order to capture their attention. They are often saw as irresistible. Their purpose is to lead sailors to their death.Another poet who uses them is Samuel Taylor Coleridge in "The Rhyme of the Ancient Mariner."

Main (l. 2) - A body of water.

Bark (l. 3) - A boat.

Triton (l. 26) - Another creature from mythology that is saw to be the "King of the Sea." He is often seen as a fish-like creature that uses a horn, like in this poem.

Hooties

2011-01-03T16:51:00.003-06:00

The other night my husband and I were driving home in Del Rio and we turned a corner only to find a beautiful owl standing right in the middle of the road. His big round eyes gleamed as our headlights hit them. He stared. We stared. It was amazing to us since we had never seen an owl before (in person). He had brown markings with white. After a minute or two he started to look around - all the way around. We sat in awe at such a beautiful animal. We decided we were going to try and get closer to him. We pulled the car forward a little. He didn't move. We moved it a little more- nothing. And just as I thought that I could get a barely visible picture of him through my terrible camera phone - he flew away. His wings spread across the night sky, and it took my breath away. My husband and I continued our way home in utter disbelief. We felt that God had just blessed us. One of His amazing creatures of the wild had let us see him. Enjoy him.

We went home and looked up what the symbolism was to seeing an owl. There are many ancient beliefs, but the most common and one that we chose to believe is that he is a sign of upcoming wisdom. I pray that this is the case.

God blesses us in the small things, and sometimes it's the small things that mean the most. For some reason, I have been drawn to owls the past few months. I have even decided to start collecting them. There is something inspiring about its allusive nature. God knew that, and showing me that owl was a pleasure the He gave me.

I read this when doing some research on them, and I thought it was cute.

There is this nursery rhyme that says:
"A wise old owl lived in an oak
The more he saw the less he spoke
The less he spoke the more he heard.
Why ...can't we all be like that wise old bird?"

I was reminded of the movie Legend of the Guardians, so I decided to add the trailer. It was a good movie, and I thought it to be appropriate for my topic today. Enjoy.

Have you ever come in contact with an owl before? I'd love to hear your story. Leave comments! :)

Cheers and Happy New Years!

2011-01-02T22:58:00.001-06:00

It is another year, and I am reminded of all the things that I wished I'd done last year. My "New Year's resolutions" seem to be piling up. I think the main thing I need to remember as I embark on another year is that balance is the key to a happy life.

I need to balance:

-work with play
-self-determination with letting go

-prayer with taking initiative

-life with dreams

-realism with wonder

-simplicity with immense creativity

-veggies with chocolate

-exercise with relaxation

-responsibilities with enjoying letting someone else do it

In addition to needing major balance in my life, simplicity seems to be a word that has been haunting me. A simple life – my dream in three little words. No matter what happens this year, whether my husband gets his dream job or I publish my first book or nothing significant happens at all, I WILL work on simplifying my crazy life.

My dear friend, Laura, inspires me so much and she doesn’t even know it. She told me that he color for the year is purple. Colors truly inspire. I think mine this year will be red. No sure why, but I’m going with it.

Inspirational animal for the year? Uhmm… the owl. For some reason I’ve been drawn to owls for the past few months. Maybe some wisdom is in my future???

Just a little jingle for you,

To bring in the new:

Another new year is here.

Exciting adventures are near.

2010 sure went by fast.

Hope 2011 is better than the last.

To peace and joy –cheers!

From one heart to another – Happy New Years!

Be blessed my friends!

Vanessa K. Eccles

Realm of Desire

2010-07-08T00:31:00.001-05:00

"Isn’t it funny how we always think that things will be better if we have something else? Is the grass always greener? Or is the other side only full of scary creatures and a world of darkness?" -Sophie- The lead character in my new book, REALM OF DESIRE.

Curious yet? ;)

Honor

2010-06-30T20:02:00.000-05:00

Prompt: Honor
Flash Fiction Challange
www.AbsoluteWrite.com

Dearest Love,

There’s so much that I want to tell you. I don’t think that it is possible to fit it all in a letter, so I’m sure that this won’t be the last.

Let’s start out with the two most important things. I love you. I miss you. There’s nothing in my life that I’ve found so far that can distract me, even temporarily, from those facts and feelings. You’ve been my best friend for years, and you are no doubt my soul mate. The piece that completes my puzzle, the moon in my night of stars, the sun that lights up my world; you are the love of my life. I know cheesy, right? I can’t help it. It’s like Shakespeare said, “My bounty is as deep as the sea, My love as deep; the more I give to thee, The more I have, for both are infinite.” My love for you is immeasurable.

You’ve been gone so long that I’m not sure where to start. My life has changed a little bit since the last time that we have seen each other. I did end up getting into the culinary school that we spent so much time applying for. I can’t believe it, can you? Thanks for all your help on that, by the way. Sugar, our sweetest pup, is doing great. She keeps me company on those lonely nights. She was the greatest birthday present that you’ve ever given me. All the family is doing well. Your mom is even doing better. She’s taking everything in stride. So, all in all things are okay.

Do you remember the first time we met? It was a cold winter day in the park, and I was completely lost. I had just moved to New York, and I’m sure it was painfully obvious. You were laughing as you approached me. You were so cute. Remember? I could barely speak when you came up. I thought that you had to be the most handsome man that I had ever seen. My heart had to of skipped a beat. We ended up sitting on a bench and talking all night long. Then we ate at that little diner on the corner, the one that we now have labeled ours. That was the most magical evening that I’ve ever had. That’s when it all began.

And what about our wedding day? You surprised me so much when you proposed, and instead of handing me a ring, you gave me plane tickets to Vegas. That was brilliant, I might add. You knew that I never had any desire to have a wedding, or to have to go through the nightmare of planning one. But I always thought how brave that was of you. What if I would have said no? Anyway, you knew I wouldn’t. That trip always makes me laugh when I think about the cliché of an Elvis impersonator marrying us.

I often find myself running through these memories in my mind. I’m trying to keep them alive because I never want to let go of any part of you. The day that you left me is the only day I wish I could forget. Kissing you good-bye at the door that morning is hard for me to recount. It was the last time that my lips would ever touch yours, and I hate myself for not making it linger longer. There are so many things that I would change. There are so many things I would do differently.

I wonder where you are and what you’re doing. I wonder if you’re happy, or if you’re alone. Are you some place warm or cold? Do you miss me? Will I ever see you again? There are too many questions. There are too many that won’t ever be answered.

I talk to God a lot now. He’s been the only man in my life for quite a while. He makes me feel like there is somewhere after this, which gives me hope that I’ll be seeing your sweet face again.

I can’t lie in saying that after you died I was strong. I wasn’t. I was devastated, broken, hopeless. I stayed in bed for weeks. I could barely breathe most of the time. It was horrible to have to bury the man of my dreams. The perfection of our love was a miracle. But with that miracle was a brief time line that has torn me apart.

I’m going by to see you this afternoon. I’m bringing roses this time. I’m also going to leave you this letter. As impossible as this may seem, I feel like you can read them. I need you to read them. It gives me peace to know that I’m finally able to tell you what I never had the chance to that say.

I just hope that no matter where you are you know that I loved you more than anything. Someday I know we will meet again. You were a gift from God, and I thank Him for you everyday. I am honored to have been your wife.

Eternally yours,

Kayla

Vanessa K. Eccles

Mattie Pearl

2010-06-26T19:17:00.000-05:00

My Granny and Grandpa

Mattie Pearl Dekel Bruce

1921-2010

The Sweetest Slumber

On one Monday night, in her sleep,

Mattie Pearl’s heart could no longer beat.

Tired and weary from all her days,

But tried and perfected in so many ways.

A golden heart as pure as snow,

Only the lucky ones had chance to know.

The radiant light that glowed from inside,

A life full of sorrow and love, both tied.

More life was lived in those years,

Than many will experience here.

The beauty of a humble soul,

That never knew any foe.

A laugh that lit up the whole room,

I remember the sweetest scent of her perfume.

Nothing like any other person I’ve ever met,

No one has even come close yet.

A fire for God, peaceful and sweet,

She was where faith and beauty meet.

As perfect as a human soul could get,

Held as much love as she could fit.

My sweet Granny, I will miss you so,

I was blessed to have known you, this I know.

And although you are gone away from me,

I will hold you in my heart where you will always be.

One day Mattie Pearl went to sleep,

And opened her eyes to a world of our Savior’s keep.

A marvelous place where she could rest,

A place she deserved, because she passed the test.

No suffering, no sorrow, no place for tears,

A reward for all her faithful years.

One day, my precious Granny’s number was called,

One day she had the sweetest slumber of all.

Vanessa K. Eccles

Although I Am Thirsty ...

2010-06-24T11:02:00.000-05:00

These beautiful flowers came up around the lake about a month ago. They were a solitary color in the vast aray of green and gray. It was just a reminder that something beautiful can come from the desert.

Sometimes I wonder how I'm going to grow in the area that I live, and God is continuing to show me that it is possible with His help. Just like these beautiful flowers, I will bloom with His love no matter where I am.

Getting Down To the Nitty Gritty...

2010-06-24T10:43:00.000-05:00

Okay - So I have given myself a goal to finish novel number 2 by August 1st. That is a pretty stiff deadline for me, being as I'm only 126 pages through it so far. : / BUT I've got to kick myself into gear somehow.

I created a musical playlist to kind of get myself in the mood of my book. Writing a paranormal romance has turned out to be a little bit of a challenge for me. It's been hard to get my mind focused on the spooky things in life, but it has helped to listen to a list of songs during my initial writing process every day.

To meet my goal, I will have to write some ten pages a day! I'm not totally unrealistic! lol I know that this is a near impossible task. I just want to finish as much as possible. Oh- but it sure would be nice! :)

Wish me luck!

Just another lil something....

2010-05-21T23:38:00.003-05:00

Why I Love Night…

In the midnight hour, I see,

The globe of light directly above me.

The only bright flash in the darkened sky,

Its very presence, I question why.

If dark were meant, then why the light?

Is it to offer us some sight?

But who needs sight during the time of sleep?

For the answer we must take a leap.

Read it with different eyes,

The ones that read between the lines.

A deeper meaning is bound to emerge,

One with spiritual insight and a Godly surge.

The only light in a darkened globe,

Is only reference for what we already know.

A daily reminder that His light helps us see,

In a world where darkness takes captives, we are free.

With no other known purpose for the moon, I must say,

That it’s nice to be reminded of The Way.

May the Lord always be the lamp to my feet,

May His word and light I always keep.

A light in the darkness, our God is to us,

Now I see why the moon is a must.

Now are you gaze upon it in the sky,

I pray you remember its purpose and why.

Vanessa K. Eccles

2010-04-06T22:27:00.003-05:00

Like A Flower

Like a flower I bloom,

A burst of color in the room.

Laced with leaves and petals,

I provide softness against the metals.

Bright and alive like a tree,

You’ve planted this life in me.

You water me with Your reign,

Providing purity and releasing stain.

Radiating I am in the meadow, so full.

Providing a way for others, using Your tool.

Dancing in the wind against the sky so blue,

I wonder what You did to make me more like You.

Ya see, this is the way I want to be,

A shining messenger for You, in me.

But I can’t seem to be that precious flower,

I’m like a seed looking up a tower.

Searching for soft ground to lay,

Me, the seed, searches day after day.

Your purpose for me is real, this I know.

I’m just waiting for that opportunity to show.

No matter what, this seed, will search for that door.

That door that will open and allow me to share You more.

Vanessa K. Eccles

2010-04-06T22:22:00.003-05:00

Warm

Like the wind I sway in mind,

Searching for and hoping to find,

Something that is unknown to me,

Happiness I hope it to be.

I’m like a buoy floating in the lake,

Back and forth for goodness sake.

I no longer want to be hot or cold,

Can’t I be warm and still live outside the mold?

Keeping in mind that failure may be apart of life,

All I need is to be a servant and wife.

No matter what dreams may have gone,

Those open doors were never shown.

I can kiss some hope good-bye today,

But I know that for my purpose You’ll provide a way.

No matter what all I need,

Is to find contentment in the life You feed.

I’m sorry, Lord, for my failing heart,

My solemn prayer is to find a promising start.

A start of life without failed dreams, what if’s, sadness, and regret,

One where Your dreams for me are met.

Vanessa K. Eccles

© Copyright 2010

Kute Lil Koala

2010-03-18T19:16:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone, my name is KiKi the Koala.

Kiki is just another lil snuggly animal that I've made for fun. This was a free pattern that I found on Crochet Pattern Central. I'm using these free patterns in addition to some that I've purchased to get some good practice in, so that I can start writing more of my own patterns. These lil animals are too fun, and they make great lil gifts.

Poetry

2010-03-14T20:56:00.003-05:00

Shelter

Never have I ever been so lost before,

That I’m unable to find refuge through any door.

No matter where I go, only despair I find,

I feel lost; I need help to keep a straight mind.

Desperation is showing its ugly face,

And anger is coming up inside, I can taste.

Is this how it has to be?

Is this the only way, really?

Well, be that as it may,

I’m still choosing to smile today.

No matter what happens, no matter how hard it gets,

I’m not going to waste my days complaining and throwing fits.

I know that things will turn out good, for those who follow the Lord,

So, I’ve got to just hang in there, and hope I can handle more.

You never promised things would be easy, only that I would make it through,

You never worried I wouldn’t make it, because I can find rest in You.

I just have to convince myself that happiness is a state of mind,

And hope that you lead me around corner, and there it I will find.

I will keep pushing through the grim, no matter how hard the rain,

Because I know no matter how hard the storm, Your shelter will remain.

Vanessa K. Eccles

Recycled

2010-03-14T20:12:00.000-05:00

Description

This is something new for me, but I'm pleased with how they turned out. These lil books would be great for an artist who wants something unique to sketch it. They would also be good for someone who journals in a scrapbooking way. Pictures/stamps/stickers/fabrin pieces can all be glued inside. A memory book for a vacation/event will also be a good purpose.
They are 7in tall and 10in wide. And they are made out of recycled paper bags. I have painted the pages inside off white and peach - neutral colors, but they can be repainted to your choice. They are bound together using thick embroidery thread, in addition to hemp. They have 14 pages, including inside pages. The outside of the book can be painted/fabriced/or whatever floats your fancy. Have fun with it! :)
Please keep in mind that these were made out of USED paper bags, and they do have minor imperfections due to previous use. But that just adds to the character. :)
Business card holder's are available upon request.
Price is $10 and includes 1 book.

Marley the Mushroom...

2010-03-13T16:27:00.000-06:00

Hi, my name is Marley the Mushroom!

This is my first crochet stuffed pattern. He came about as a total accident. What started out a simple experiment, turned into this. I was just trying to play around with increasing and decreasing, and before I knew it I had his shroom finished. Then I had to figure out what I was going to do with it. After all, I didn't want to waste all that time... so I added a stem, some spots, and some eyes... and here he is. He kinda reminds me of the 1 UP on Super Mario Bros... or one of the Toadstools. I'm really pleased at how he turned out. I guess accidents aren't always bad things. :)

Meet Pinky...

2010-03-12T13:11:00.000-06:00

Meet Pinky. He's cute and cuddly and perfect to get you in the Easter spirit! He is my FIRST crochet stuffed creation. This particular pattern I found on http://www.crochetpatterncentral.com/directory.php .

I have Pinky sitting on my shelf, and I'm looking forward to looking at him during this Easter season. I'm going to try my hand at making my own patterns for some lil crochet stuffies. And who knows? Maybe some of them will pop up in my shop soon. :)

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ColorfulCreations4u

Savannah, GA - My Favorite Place

2010-02-22T16:15:00.001-06:00

Flash Fiction Challenge
Prompt: The Dance

“Are you scared yet?” Joe whispered as he came from behind to pull me close to him.

“Yes.”

This was our first time in Savannah, and we were determined to have the best time possible. It was the big St. Patrick’s Day festival, and there were thousands if not millions of people there. Us and a few friends decided about a month ago to come.

We arrived early yesterday morning. We are only going to be here 3 days so we’ve planned every moment out. There were four bus tours that we wanted to take, and then, of course, was the haunted mansion tours that were a must.

Jill, Jonathan, Joe, and I walked all day today, it seems like. I’ve always been fascinated with everything and anything old, so being here is a real treat for me. We ate at Mrs. Wilkes Boarding House restaurant for lunch and then we had dinner at an English pub. It was wonderful. We went on a few excursions today, but the best is yet to come. At midnight tonight we are going on a tour of the Sorrel-Weed House. We’re all really excited, but I must admit that I’m sort of afraid of that stuff.

As midnight approached, Savannah’s southern-happy-feel began to change. Without the sunlight illuminating the old buildings and alleys, everything looked much more old, dark, and scary. When we pulled up to park next to the mansion, the feeling of dread swept over me. The house stood tall and the general feeling of gloom hit me in a rush. On top of everything it started to mist outside. It wasn’t enough to classify as a sprinkle, but it was really playing a number on my curly hair.

“I’m nervous,” Jill said as we approached the back of the home.

The start of the tour begins in the carriage house, which in itself is pretty spooky to me.

“Don’t be scared, baby. I’m right here,” Jonathan said with a pervious smile on his face.

“Come on in, and take a seat in here,” the tour guide said as she led us into an adjoining room in the carriage house.

“This place freaks me out,” I whispered to Joe.

“It is kind of creepy,” he replied.

“We will begin our tour by taking a short stroll around the block,” the guide said.

We followed her out into the street, and around a park. We stopped and looked at a few mansions that were rumored to be haunted. One of which was the home in the movie Midnight In The Garden of Good and Evil. The stroll was interesting, besides the mist. Jill and I took pictures all along, hoping to catch some ghostly image.

Then we were escorted back to the house, of which we were led into the basement. The guide didn’t tell us anything about the basement, we just moved right through it and went up the stairs. We were put into a room; I’m not sure what it was supposed to be used for. But we all stood there while the guide told us background about the past owner. Legends of voodoo, and dead wives, and suspicious accusations were told to us. It all seemed neat to me, but the validity of it was completely theory.

All of the sudden I started to feel a little sick. My stomach was churning, and I began to experience severe cramping. I went on about the tour for a few more minutes, hoping it would pass. It didn’t.

“Is there a restroom I could use?” I asked the guide.

“No, there’s one across the street they keep open,” she answered.

“I’ve got to go. I’ll catch back up with ya’ll,” I said as I flew out of there. I could hardly wait. I run through the rooms, back down the stairs to the basement, and out the back door, and across the street.

When I came out, I felt better. I must have eaten something bad earlier, who knows. I walked back to the house, and almost immediately when I stepped into the basement I began to feel sick again. I didn’t need to go to the restroom again. My stomach just felt uneasy. The basement was dark, pitch black, actually. There were no lights at all. All I could see was the stairs, which were illuminated by the lights on the second floor. I walked up in a hurry, and followed the same path that we took when we all came in. When I came to the living room or parlor area, I slowed down and peaked in. Something told me to not walk in the room, so I stood in the foyer just looking in. I couldn’t hear the guide or anyone, but then something caught my eye.

There was a huge mirror above the fireplace. I stared at it. I couldn’t take my eyes off of it, and that’s when I saw it. I could see a person’s head and shoulders moving in the mirror. I looked around the room again, and there was nothing. But the person kept moving in the mirror. It was a woman. Her hair was pinned back in a fancy twist, she was gleaming. She looked happy, like she was having fun. At first, I couldn’t understand why she was moving in circles, but then I realized what it looked like. It looked like she was dancing.

I was in awe. I just stood there, frozen. I had never seen anything remotely paranormal, and here I was experiencing something that I would probably never experience again. After watching her for what seemed like forever, she turned to face the mirror. The happiness wore off her face, and she stared back at me with a somber look.

“Are you scared yet?” Joe whispered as he came from behind to pull me close to him.

“Yes.”

*This story is fiction.

Vanessa K. Eccles

This is what really happened...

This is the basement to your left. There really were no lights at all. I couldn't see anything when I took this picture. The flash is the only source of light on this photo.

Below is the living area or parlor. See- it really does have a huge mirror on top of it. This room adjoins to another living area. They are only seperated by two incredibly large pocket doors. These doors were opened when the family had a large party, which they did very often.

If you're ever in Savannah, you need to take time out to visit the Sorrel-Weed house at night, late at night if you can. It really is something to see.

My husband and I visited here in December of last year. We had an awesome trip. Our first night there, we visited the Sorrel-Weed house. And it was sprinkling, dark, and midnight. There was only us and the tour guide that night. I became sick, really sick, when I first began our tour. I didn't leave to find a restroom. I would have never have been that brave, but I did have to stop the tour early. The guide told me that people get sick in the house all the time. I later spoke to a Savannah historian who verified that. The strange thing was that I felt fine as soon as I left. I took a lot of pictures in and around the house, and I got a couple of strange things in my photos. I've sent those photos to the Savannah historian as well as Sorrel-Weed website.

This was one of the strange photos. Some people see nothing, and others see it. You be the judge. I sent it to the Historian, and she saw exactly what I saw. You may need photo software to get a closer look. **Hint: look below the reflection of the flash.

Finding Joy In the Simple Things...

2010-02-21T14:14:00.000-06:00

I've been trying to keep myself busy for the remainder of this wintery season. It's been difficult, I might add. I am more than ready for spring and summer.

I have recently been visiting a few local antique stores because I've been in search of blue and white "made in England" plates that feature people and landscaping. I've had some luck, but not as much as I have hoped for. BUT what I did find last week, has brought me a new interest. I found these three large spoons, which could are probably small serving spoons. They are absolutely beautiful! I had no idea what they were worth, if anything, when they caught my eye in the store. They were taped together and for sale for a dollar (for all three). Crazy, huh?

So, anyway... I started doing some research and what I found out was amazing. These spoons are stamped WM Rogers. They also have a stamp on the back "Pat 1900." How neat is that? They are the York pattern, which I assume was popular because I was able to find others online. They are worth approx. $7.50 each, and I paid a dollar for all three. I've attempted cleaning them up, and they look better than they did.

So that got me thinking... do I have any other old silverware? Yes! I do. And here it is to your right. This is an antique heirloom set that was given to me by my mother-in-law, and it was her mothers. It was in serious need of some polishing, so I spent hours last night polishing each piece, and this is what it looks like now. I wish that I would have taken a before picture, but coulda-shoulda-woulda, right? :) I started researching the brand of these, and I found out more neat information. The only marking on the back of the pieces is "Monarch Plate." I googled it, of course. And I found out that Monarch Plate was made by the National Silver Company, which was in prodution in the early 1900s until the 1950s. It took me hours to go through every known design to them to find out which design these were- they are the Mildred design circa 1936. They have a place for monograming, but they are not monogramed. Their worth, from what I research is about $150-175. They are in their origional box, from my knowledge, and they even have the original warranty certificate still with them. After doing all the reseach, it was thrilling to realize that there was value in something that I already had. I never would have guessed. I suppose, that goes to show you that Christmas can come at anytime during the year.

Question From Me...

2010-02-11T15:19:00.000-06:00

Dreams

Once in my sleep, I dreamed.

Of a life of perfection, or so it seemed.

A life so planned, with every detail.

That had life catching me if I fell.

It’s funny how these things work,

How dreams haunt you, forever they lurk.

College degrees, big house, and nice cars,

Lead to mortgages, debt, loans, and happiness afar.

Once upon a time, I thought.

Maybe I could be more than even what I sought.

I challenged myself with an education,

Only to find that it’s not always possible, even with determination.

Sometimes I wonder, my dear Lord,

Didn’t You give me these dreams to be more?

Or is this all a shadow of my ego?

A figment of mind, brought on by thoughts of long ago.

If it’s just me, and I’m not meant,

To be this person I want, and all my life spent.

Just let me know Your will,

I will wait for it, O’Lord, in the still.

Vanessa K. Eccles

Poetry

2010-02-05T13:24:00.000-06:00

The Rain

The kiss of rain,

Dancing on my cheek,

The moist stain,

Offers solace to the meek.

The enticing smell,

Puts a smile on my face,

It’s saying, “All is well.”

Flowers yearn for a taste.

Brown to green,

I can almost see the fade.

Sometimes the sun can be mean,

But rain provides the shade.

A much needed break,

From it’s brutal rays,

Sweet moisture it will take,

And hold onto during rough days.

Your Spirit pours Your love,

Down like the rain,

Quenching our thirst from above,

O’ how mighty You reign.

Thank You for thirsty days,

A time to endure,

Thank You for the rainy rays,

That gives me strength to seek You more.

Vanessa K. Eccles

New Year/New Goal:

2010-02-04T16:00:00.000-06:00

2010 is flying by already, and although I may be a little late... I've decided to make some short term goals for myself. My husband has agreed to fund a trip to a Wrtiers Conference this summer IF and only IF I finish my second book. To be honest, I've been taking a little break from it, and this is just what I need to kick myself back into gear.

But here's the kick. Not only do I have to complete Book #2, but I have to have it edited. On top of that I have to have a query and synopsis written for it, and THEN I have to have a written proposal for Book #3! Woo... I've got a long road ahead, but I'm determined to make this happen. I'm very much goal oriented, so him giving me this little deadline is going to do me wonders.

I'm excited to get this ball rolling again. I've been working hard, and so far in the past three days I've written 5 chapters. I just hope I can keep it up!

Wish me luck! :)

A little More Info...

2010-02-04T15:44:00.000-06:00

I've started to post a few short stories that I've written. All of them that I will post were written for Absolute Write's (http://www.absolutewrite.com/) Flash Fiction Challenge, unless otherwise stated. It's a weekly challenge that a few members participate in on Sunday nights. They give us a prompt, it's usually a word or phrase. For there we have 90 minutes to write, edit, and post a short story. It's a think-on-your-toes type of deal. It's something that I've become really fond of. They are a lot of fun, and I some of them I will be sharing with all of you. Please remember that all writing is (c)Copyright 2009-2010 by me.

Another thing that I would like to add is that most, if not all, of the stories are inspirational. They are apart of a book that I'm putting together. So, I guess, you can consider them a sneak peak. :) They are all about 4 pages long or under 1,500 words. Most are quick and to the point, making them an easy read. They are fiction, but some are inspired by something in my life. Those stories with some real detail will be noted.

I hope that you enjoy them, and leave comments, if you like. I love to read them.

Vanessa K. Eccles

Absolute Write Flash Fiction Challenge

2010-01-29T23:17:00.001-06:00

Prompt: Flood

I’m amazed at how much time I actually spend walking dogs. Let me see, each walk is anywhere between twenty and thirty minutes, and I do that about five times a day. How much of my life is that? Hold on. That’s approximately one hundred to one hundred fifty minutes A DAY walking dogs. That’s over 8% of my time each day! Do I really have nothing better to do than wait for my dogs to pee and poop, you ask? Sadly, it’s true.

As a matter of fact, right now I’m on one of those walks. After practically begging Coco to go, so we can get back inside to the air conditioning, I find myself looking up at the piercing blue sky. It’s really quite beautiful today, and I suppose this is one of the benefits to these walks.

In Texas sky is in abundance. Blue is a color that your furniture matches, because somehow the outside always flows in. Brush, cactus, and dirt are the only vegetation, and the land is quite unattractive. But the sky, the sky is always amazing. I think God gave us, Texans, the vast blue to make up for the lack of green.

Today feels different than most of those sunny days though. It’s still hotter than heck, but there’s a slight bit of humidity in the air. The smell of rain is a reminder of my childhood in Alabama, and instantly I feel excited for a change of pace. A change, maybe a storm or at least more than a half inch of rain.

Monotony is like a demon in my life, boring days that seems to run together like a string of pearls. No day is different than the last, and there never is anything to look forward to. But, I guess, it could be worse.

After their walk, I let all of them inside. I unhooked their leashes, took off their harnesses, took off my shoes, and collapsed on the coach. The heat is killer out there. As I stretch out to grab the remote, my phone rings.

“Hello?”

“Did you hear about what happened?” my mama asked frantically.

“No. What are you talking about?” I could feel the hesitation grow in my voice.

“It’s the Twin Towers in New York, and the Empire State building. They ran planes through them. They’re expecting thousands to be dead. Oh my goodness, Mary, what if this is just the beginning of more attacks? Where will be next?”

I could hardly breathe. I felt my heart flutter with terror, sadness, and anger all at once.

“Turn on your television. I love you baby. Call me back,” Mama said as she hung up the phone.

I spent the next few hours watching people jump out windows and hearing screams that shattered my heart in two. For hours, I sat there watching the horror that my fellow citizens in my great country were feeling, and here I was. Helpless.

Something in me grew that moment. It was the first time in my life that tragedy struck my home…stuck my heart. The next several hours there was talk of terrorism and war, and our world seemed to be in chaos and despair. Everyone was afraid to go anywhere, and so was I. No one knew what would happen next.

What if this is the beginning of the end? What if we’ve went too far, and a world war is on our brink? With tears in my eyes and fear in my heart, I grabbed my Bible. I closed my eyes, and opened it. I set my eyes is the middle of the page.

I read, “The Lord smelled the pleasing aroma and said in His heart, ‘Never again will I curse the ground because of man, even though every inclination of his heart is evil from childhood. And never again will I destroy all living creatures as I have done.’”

And then, “Then God said to Noah, ‘I now establish my covenant with you and with your descendants after you and with every living creature that was with you- the birds, livestock and all the wild animals, all those that came out of the ark with you- every living creature on earth I establish my covenant with you.’

Then God said, “This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you, a covenant for all generations to come I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all the living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life.” (Genesis 8:21, 9:8-10, 9:12-15 NIV)

And there I sat at the edge of my bed, with tears in my eyes not able to make sense of everything.

That’s when little Coco came to my side and whined. It was past time for their walk, and they had been more than patient. I got everyone ready, and I tried to prepare myself mentally to step away from the T.V.

I didn’t walk twenty feet before I looked up at the sky, and then I saw it. There peaking from the big Texas clouds was a rainbow, in its glorious wonder shining its beautiful colors down on the world… down on me.

I couldn’t help but stop moving, and I couldn’t help but marvel at it. Before my eyes I saw God- His remembrance of an ancient covenant with His sinful people. More tears appeared, and I fell to my knees. On the worst day of my young life, God was speaking to my heart. I could feel His words, “I see the flood of tears among my people, and I want to remind you that I am here, but remember that your life is eternal, an immortal, an everlasting soul.”

If I would have never taken my dogs out, I would have missed it. Now, 8% of my day feels less like a chore and more like an opportunity.

Confirmation in tragedy is what we all seek, and somehow- I don’t know why- but He chose to give it to me on that day. What happened on that awful day will never be forgotten by my generation, and I’m sure that there will be more awful events ahead of us. I just hope that in the midst of pain we can all take time to see the rainbows.

Vanessa K. Eccles

Now is the Time...

2010-01-09T22:08:00.001-06:00

Harvest

You reap what you sow,

Doesn’t everyone know?

We are who we are,

But a working progress, by far.

The seeds we plant,

Shows if we can or can’t,

Produce goods from the heart,

That will be the start,

Of the sun-filled harvest.

That offers a peaceful nest.

A nest for our lives,

And a way to plant tithes.

Now is the time to begin,

Planting your crop without sin.

It is time to sow,

To learn what you don’t know.

To pray for the rain,

And a peace that will sustain.

God will supply every need,

And he will fertilize every seed.

Intentions from us must be pure,

For us to have more,

More joy, more peace, more love,

In our lives, from the Father above.

The Harvest time has come.

Let no man keep us from,

Our abundant life here and now.

Seek and God will show us how.

This is only the beginning of our lives.

The past is gone, and the future is left to our dreams.

But now is the time of abundance. Now is the time of Harvest.

Vanessa K. Eccles

A Piece of Me...

2009-12-30T22:16:00.003-06:00

Wanderer

Like the dusty tumbleweed blowing on a hot summer day,

I wander aimlessly, not knowing if we should go or stay.

Is this all that life has to offer someone like me?

Is this who I am and what God wants me to be?

It’s hard to find purpose in situations such as these.

I’m praying for a great revelation that will make me hit my knees.

He’s given me a love that’s more pure that I have ever knew.

I just want a purpose. I want my cake and eat it too.

Bouncing from idea to idea on what I’m supposed to do with my life,

I know that there’s got to be more for me than just being a wife.

Living in the dessert is the greatest irony that I have ever seen,

If you get lost, there’s no way to find your way out. It can be mean.

Ferocious heat, scorching sand, and no direction can be found.

That’s the way I feel. I’m in the silence waiting for a sound.

When do you think He will tell me? Will it be clear?

Or more importantly, will I take to heart what I hear?

I pray, Oh God, that you hear my desperate plea.

Fill my heart with wisdom that will set this wanderer free.

My Christmas

2009-12-24T21:59:00.003-06:00

My Christmas

It was the night before Christmas,

And as I look around,

Every pup is sleeping,

No one makes a sound.

My hubby is resting,

But I’m still awake.

Waiting patiently for tomorrow,

And thinking about the dishes I will make.

Presents decorate the floor,

Lights glitter in the dark.

The stars light up the sky,

Reminding us of how Jesus made His mark.

Gentle wind is blowing,

As I reflect on it all.

Why Christmas is Christmas,

He was born, and I am in awe.

For now the world seems perfect,

In it’s warm embrace,

But soon it will be over,

And reality we will face.

Christmas will soon be gone,

In January it will all fade,

But for now I will rejoice,

In the sacrifice that was made.

So… It was the night before Christmas,

And as I look around,

I thank God for His blessings,

And His love that I’ve found.

So before I lay my head down,

To fall asleep tonight,

I wish you all a Merry Christmas,

And a good night.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-19T22:09:00.001-06:00

I just wanted to wish everyone out there a Merry Christmas! I've enjoyed my time here in Alabama, spending time with friends and family... but unfortunately, it's time to go back to Texas. Although, I won't physically be home for Christmas, my heart will always be.

Be sure that you remember the real reason for the season. Love like there won't be a next year, hope like life will change tomorrow, and have faith that every day will be better than the last.

Spend time with your family; that's the greatest gift of all. Tell them you love them, and be sure to offer thanksgiving for the one who created it all.

Thank God for your sacrifice to me. I pray I never forget that you let your son die for me because you loved me that much.

Merry Christmas, my friends.

Vanessa

Triond Publication

2009-11-27T15:59:00.000-06:00

I've recently become a member of Triond. I'm going to see if there is any money to be made in online publication. The key is, that pay depends on views. So, for goodness sake folks, view! lol :)

It's an inspirational poem- Fatherly Advice

http://authspot.com/poetry/fatherly-advice/

Please feel free to leave comments. Enjoy!

Vanessa

In my own lil world...

2009-11-24T18:24:00.000-06:00

Lately I've been in my own little world, writing a LOT. I've decided that I'm going to try and share a few of my pieces with all of you out there in the cyber world. :) The items posted on here are inspired by prompts, often posted on http://www.absolutewrite.com/ . These pieces are mainly for practice and future inspiration, but every post is (c) copyright 2009 by Vanessa K. Eccles (had to throw that out there). I love feedback, so feel free leave comments. I hope y'all enjoy!

Keep Inspired.

Vanessa

Poetry Challenge

2009-11-24T16:08:00.001-06:00

A Christmas Winter

As trees shed their suit of spring,

Winter sets in and Christmas bells ring.

Holly and mistletoe adorn the halls,

Sparkling lights and wreaths hang from the walls.

Snuggling together in front of the fire,

Listening to carolers and children that never tire.

With the tree dressed in its finest décor,

And an abundance of presents sitting on the floor.

Drinking eggnog and watching it snow,

Reminds me that I am blessed more than I know.

Reality

2009-11-24T00:41:00.001-06:00

Reality

The misty mornings that envelope the Carolina beaches are ones to inspire. I spend most of my mornings walking the shore in search of a deeper understanding of life and peace.

Losing contentment is a battle that I daily face. Fortunately, though, the beach serves as a middle ground between utter defeat and ultimate happiness. It is my sanctuary, if you will.

Last week I was facing a particular difficult challenge. I had lost my contract with a local art museum. It seems that some other, more talented, artist had shown interest in some space. Being as I have not sold one painting in 7 months, I was the first to be booted. It was not a surprise really, just a reality.

It was then when I was walking along the beach trying to find purpose in my failure, that I saw it. I could see a glimmer of gold in the wet sand. It sparkled although the sun was barely out that morning. When I got closer, I saw that it was a locket. I gently wiped the sand from the top of the oval pendant. There was a cross engraved on the front with a tiny diamond in its center. It was beautiful, and I knew that someone must have really been missing it.

When I opened it, a small piece of paper fell to the ground. I bent over, picked it up, and read:

Blessings often come from loss, because it is loss that forces thanksgiving.

These words offered me a sense peace. I went home and made a list of everything that I was thankful for, right down to the shoes on my feet. Within a week, I was offered a job at the local college teaching art classes. The pay was more than I had ever hoped for myself. I do not believe that I would have ever been bold enough to take a step passed failure if I had not dug up that locket and read those words.

Now I find myself walking along those very same beaches thinking, not of what I need or desire out of life, but what I have and love about life.

-Vanessa K. Eccles
(c) Copyright 2009

When You Feel Lost, Follow The Bread Crumbs.

2009-10-23T23:00:00.000-05:00

Something that has been bothering me lately is that I'm losing my stamina for writing. I know that everyone goes through their ups and downs, and I know that this too shall pass. I'm feeling guilty for not writing but not guilty enough to continue. It's like everything that can come up to distract me, does.

My husband just added a new member to our family- Harvest. She's an Australian Shepard puppy only a few weeks old. She's an absolute handful, and she makes #4 to our dog count. We already have Sugar, Honey, and Coco. Things like this keep me distracted to no end.

On top of all of this, getting little positive feedback of my novel from agents is a major downer. I know that there is nothing uncommon about having a few form letters under you belt, but since I'm new to this each letter tears a little piece of hope out of my heart.

I realize that I've got to keep motivated. It's just that sometimes the odds get to me. Luckily, I write for pure enjoyment. I pray that I find my determination again and start writing on a regular, steady basis. After all, my inspiration is abundant.

Sometimes I find that God gives me the crumbs I need to just sustain me from one day to another. This too shall pass, and this is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.

I'm glad.

Vanessa

How Do You Make Lemonade If You Ain't Got Any Sugar?

2009-10-10T23:08:00.000-05:00

Ever heard the phrase, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade?" This phrase is one of the most commonly used sayings when people are trying to make you feel better about your life. Unfortunately, it never works!

There is nothing more frustrating than telling someone about your troubles and them give you some lame- cop out- saying that doesn’t help in the least.

It’s just like when someone asks how you are, but they couldn’t care less. You know those people. Heaven forbid that someone actually answer truthfully! (haha)

These days people are only interested in very impersonal responses, such as, “fine.” With the invention of technology we’ve created a whole generation of people who never actually say what they mean, or if they do it’s not face to face (i.e. texting, facebook, twitter, and blogging). This has become the only source of truly being able to speak our mind without ever having to face personal conflict. We don’t need any help making our life less personable.

The point is, instead of using lame phrases to put a wall up against the true feelings of people- just listen. You might just learn something. Encourage someone. Next time someone is having a bad day, ask how you can help. Be genuine; be interested. Why, you ask? Because it’s the right thing to do.

Besides you can’t make lemonade without any sugar, or else it’s really gross. 

Until Later – Don’t be a sour!

Vanessa

Captivating...

2009-10-03T13:46:00.002-05:00

Captivating written by John and Stasi Eldridge may very well be my favorite book. I get asked all the time who my favorite author is, and what is my favorite book. Well, here is my answer. Being as I write fiction, it may seem odd that my fav book is a Christian non-fiction. But I learned so much about myself, and I found it to be truly enlightening. This blog post is not about the book, but I just wanted to do some shameless advertising. ;)

I recently posted a comment on twitter stating, "Don't we all want to captivate our audiences the way that our characters captivate us?" I live by the thought of taking captive the thoughts and imaginations of my readers. This is my goal as a writer.

With that being said... to take captive your readers is a very powerful thing. If you read, then you have experienced a few books in your lifetime that took you away from this world and into another one. One of either fantasy, romance, humor, or mystery. You may have experienced the few times when a book keeps you up reading into the wee hours of the morning, and you find yourself yearning to read the next word and the next. I LOVE these books!

As writers, this is what we want! Most people don't realize it, but writers very often are just as taken by the characters as their readers. Unfortunately for us, most of the time our characters don't leave us alone until every word is out. I even find myself missing my characters when they are gone (crazy, right?). But it is the same way when you read that awesome book and you feel almost depressed when it's over. We feel it too.

I find that the word captivate is what motivates me with my writing. Captivate means to take hold of someone through their mind, heart, and spirit. It's stronger and deeper than if someone we're to bind you physically. It's inescapable! Undeniable! And utterly wonderful...

I look forward to my opportunity to share my work with the world, and to see if my words can truly captivate.

Vanessa

On my nightstand...

2009-09-27T19:14:00.000-05:00

I always have found it interesting what books authors read, so I decided that I would let y'all know what books were sitting on my night stand right now. These are the books that I have not read yet, but am looking forward to reading in the near future.

We, unfortunately, do not have a book store here in the little border town that I live in (I know, what a shame, right?) Sometimes I wonder how I can stand living in a place without a decent coffee shop and a Barnes and Noble (my favorite book store in the world!!). But somehow I do it.

So, how do I get books? Good question. I order them sometimes, but usually I wait until I take a trip back home to Alabama. I load up there, which is the reason I have so many unread books sitting around. The last time I was home, I bought several books, half of which I've already read.

Being an avid reader must be a prerequisite to being a writer. They go hand-in-hand. I haven't been able to read as much as I normally do since I've been working on my second book. Time has not been on my side this past month, but I'm hopeful that them days are over. *fingers crossed* :)

I enjoy letting everyone know what I think about the books that I read, so stay tuned to get my thoughts on each of these. Of course, I don't believe I've ever read a bad book. I don't know if it's just that I'm good at picking out what I'm going to like when I read the cover, or what. But while I may have never read a 'bad' book, I certainly have read some dang near awesome ones. It also helps that I have a vast range of interest.

I am currently reading the first three books of R.A. Salvatore. I will also list my thoughts on these, once completed.

Read on, my friends!

Vanessa

Inspired

2009-09-24T23:53:00.000-05:00

You never know when you're going to be inspired by something. Two weeks ago, my husband and I were on our way to San Antonio, TX. We were doing some antique shopping in a small town right outside of SA, named Castroville. While riding the roads, we stumbled upon this old, beautiful shack. It was obviously in shambles, but it spoke to me.

The cracks in the exterior walls and the rotting wood door frame onloy reminded me how the past still tangles itself with the present, and remnants will still remain in the future. My second book is all about the blending of two times. The brief inspiration of one moment in time will affect my creative view for this next story.

This shack will have a place in Sophie's world. I chose to share it with you so that you can see that anything can be an inspiration. Creativity can be helped, if we only chose to see things in a more appreciative way.

Until Later...

Be Inspired.

Vanessa K. Eccles

See Me

2009-09-24T23:22:00.000-05:00

You can find me on other websites as well. I've always been a crafter, so you can see some of my work on Etsy. http://www.colorfulcreations4u.etsy.com/

Or check out my shop blog: http://www.colorfulcreations4u.blogspot.com/

You can also see me on Twitter. Yeah, I like to tweet! :)
www.twitter.com/VanessaKEccles

Financial Peace...

2009-09-18T14:25:00.000-05:00

Okay, so here's the deal. My husband and I have been on this financial crusade since June. We have made a plan that will ensure that being in debt will be a thing of the past for us. Back in June, we rented out our home. My in-laws had offered to let us borrow their camper for a year. We made the hard decision to move into the camper for a year, so we could pay off almost the entirity of our debt (excluding our home). People keep asking me if I'm serious. Yes. I'm serious. My husband and I and our three little dogs live in a camper trailer as we speak. I thought that this would be the hardest thing that I've ever done, but honestly... it's awesome! I know, that sounds crazy, right? Well, we've been able to pay a lot down already, and we are on our way to being financially secure. This is a big thing for a couple of twenty-something-year-olds. With the help of Mr. Dave Ramsey and his book shown above, we've made the difficult decision to seek financial peace. Although, the radical technique of moving into the camper was our idea, the idea of thinking outside the box for solutions was inspired by Dave. Being here in this camper, leaves me little to do, so I've been more motivated to write. My passions have returned. There are so many wonderful things that have came from take a leap of faith- and stepping outside my comfort zone. Being free from financial burden leaves the mind and heart open to explore new possibilities. So I wanted to let everyone know about the genius that is Dave Ramsey. I encourage each of you- in debt or not- to read up on his theories and his investment ideas... Brilliant! Thanks Dave! ;)

Recent Read

2009-09-18T02:48:00.000-05:00

I just got through reading The Host tonight. What an awesome book. I started it about two weeks ago. It was slow go at first, mainly because I don't really like Sci-Fi much. The beginning didn't get me hooked in like the Twilight Saga did, but I gave it some more time. Before I knew it though, I was finding it hard to put down. The night before last, I lay down and picked up my current read, which was this, and started to read a few chapters as I always do, and then a few chapters turned into a couple hundred pages. It seemed like I had just started reading, when the sun came up. Wow. Stephanie Meyer never ceases to amaze me. It was well written, even without the steamy scenes like in New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn, it could definately hold your attention. If you haven't read it, give it a chance. It just might impress you too.

First Form Letter

2009-09-18T02:35:00.001-05:00

Ahh... I just recieved my first form letter for my book Georgia. I was expecting it though, so it made it a lot less painful. I couldn't help but wish that they had given me some reason as to why they didn't like the book, but the letter was pleasant enough, stating, "This is a very subjective business, and you may very well still find sucess." - Or something to that affect. Well, I sure hope they are right. I really want to believe somewhere deep inside that, despite my skepticism, I will see my book on a book shelf at Barnes and Noble someday. :) No one ever said that this was a very encouraging business, so I'm keeping my head up. I sent to my second agent today, and who knows, maybe I will get lucky.

# 2

2009-09-12T13:41:00.000-05:00

I'm officially starting book number 2 today. I've been working feverishly on Georgia, for months now. I am so ready to start fresh with a new life. Sophia my new main character will be a sharing her story with me starting today. I got great joy in writing Lizzie's story (main character in Georgia), but now it's time to work on my second historical romance novel. It will be different than anything that I've ever read, but it will be personal enough to find a way to relate with her. I'm excited about getting started, and I pray that through my words I can find a way to share her story sucessfully. Wish me luck!

Vanessa K. Eccles

Finding an Agent ???

2009-09-12T13:00:00.000-05:00

It's been interesting trying to find an agent to represent my first novel, Georgia. I sent out a query letter, a synopsis, and the first ten pages of my novel to my first choice agent two weeks ago. I have not heard anything from her so far, but I hope to soon. I have been unable to decide if I should send to multiple agents at one time. I've read pros and cons, so I'm just playing it by ear. I have heard that authors such as Stephanie Meyer had several rejection letters from agents, before finding one. This gives me a little hope. Of course, I hope that my first agent will fall in love with my manuscript, but I realize the absolute irrationality in that actually happening. All the same though, all I can do is hope for the best. I will keep y'all posted. Fingers crossed! :)

If there are any of you out there in the computer world that are in the same waiting game as me... stay positive. Be inspired and force yourself on to the next project.

Much love,
Vanessa K. Eccles

Road to Publication...

2009-09-12T12:56:00.000-05:00

Wow! I have finally finished my book and in the past month I have been dedicating a lot of time to my query letter and the synopsis. Both have been the hardest thing to write so far. I can't tell you how hard it is to put into a few pages of words everything in your book and do it justice. It's been really overwhelming and intimidating to me, but I realize that it is a must in order to get to my ultimate goals. Beware writers when writing these two very important pieces-they could make or break your book! Good luck!

xoxo
Vanessa K. Eccles

Finished

2009-08-08T16:41:00.000-05:00

I'm finally finished with my book. I've been working on it for a two months now, and now it's over. It's been fun, but now it's a little sad. I feel like I will miss my characters now that they are out of my thoughts. I hope that others enjoy the book as much as I've enjoyed writing in.

Be Inspired!

Vanessa

Character Evolution

2009-07-30T13:51:00.000-05:00

When I first started writing my book, I had a specific idea about who my character's were. Now that I am getting further and further into it, my main character, Lizzie, is totally evolving into someone else. It's so wierd that I lose control of her as soon as my fingers hit the keys. She's definately a free spirit.
Some of my other supporting roles are changing as well. They all seem to be set free as I type. Sometimes I sit down and not even know what I will be writing. I just start, and then the words just fall out. It is a wonder how I make anything make sense. haha It's been a blast though! I never know what I'm going to get. I'm even curious about how this book will end. :)

Don't Look at The Page Numbers!

2009-07-17T13:44:00.000-05:00

I have found that the one thing that always seems to mess me up, is looking at the page numbers. It's amazing that I'm actually getting page by page done, but it is also distracting. I get nervous if I think that I'm not writing enough. I start to wonder if I'm telling enough detial, or if I'm describing things the way I need to. Wow, this book writing thing is really overwhelming.

One important thing to remember when writing a book:
DON'T LOOK AT THE PAGE NUMBERS! haha :)

Twitter

2009-07-17T12:46:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone! I just opened a Twitter account, and I desperately need some followers! Be sure to check it out! :)

Much Love!
Vanessa

Book Writing 101

2009-07-13T14:50:00.001-05:00

I was just sitting here wasting some time creating this blog, when I realized that I should writing. One thing I've learned so far is that I have to write everyday. If I don't, then I do nothing but think about what I should be writing. It is a complete take over of the mind. It's almost like my characters are screaming at me until I get what they want down on paper. I feel like I am living half my life in the present and the other half is stuck in the 1880's. This has really been an experience! I hope that I can get some work done today, so that my mind can be at peace tonight.

Much Love,
Vanessa