Teresa Nordheim News

Found This Cool Site

2009-08-28T15:58:00.000-07:00

Become a Fan

2009-08-23T19:27:00.000-07:00

Become a fan and win a book! Starting today 8/23/09 and ending 8/30/09. All you need to do, is become a fan. At the end of the week, all names will be entered in a hat and my daughter will draw a winner. The winner will receive a free copy of, Bite of Washington. Check it out on Amazon.com.

Payment Received Today From Fun For Kidz

2009-08-22T16:10:00.001-07:00

Payment came today for a short article. A small step, but still a good day in the my writing World.

Appleseeds Magazine Assignment

2009-08-22T16:03:00.000-07:00

I received the go ahead for my article "The Body Farm" in their Dirty/Messy Jobs issue. I can't wait. Now I need to dig out my interview and do some revisions. Currently it is about 1500 words and needs to be 450. Who cares! It's another small success.

Learning Through History Magazine Closing Down

2009-08-19T18:36:00.000-07:00

I just received the official email from Rebecca Thompson, chief editor at Learning Through History. They were in negotiations with another company who wanted to take over the magazine, but the negotiations failed. Their last issue will be "The Great Space Race". Very sad news. I have subbed many articles and made it through the final read on one. I never did get published before the closure.

Highlights Check Arrived

2009-06-01T12:46:00.000-07:00

My mailbox brought me another small surprise. I received a check from Highlights for Children Magazine. In my list of goals, Highlights was due next year. So I skipped a step and moved on up. I'm very excited to see what the year will bring now.

I'm currently working on another submission for Highlights and revising with suggestions from the editor.

I enjoy writing non-fiction for children, but I have had even more fun doing these pieces which highlights kids who are making a difference in the world. It surprises me each time I do the research. The kids today are smart, innovative, and goal oriented!

Highlights Contract Arrived Today!

2009-05-18T16:51:00.001-07:00

I almost fainted in front of the mailbox. I pulled a huge stack of work mail for my hubby and hidden inside was one small envelope for me. Inside was a contract from Highlights Magazine requesting to purchase my story about Sydney Martin for the Gallant Kids section.

Highlights!? SCREAM!!! Beware publishing World...I've reached another goal and this mean the book goal is next in line.

Bite of Washington May Sampler

2009-05-09T11:40:00.000-07:00

May 17th celebrates Norwegian Constitution Day. The Pacific Northwest shows off it's Scandinavian heritage with a huge parade and day of celebration in Ballard, WA.

Rice Cream (Riskrem)
A Heavenly rice cream pudding with an almond hidden inside.
By Ingeborg Nordheim from Grytting, Norway (translated by Sverre Nordheim)

Ingredients:
3/4 cup white rice (not Minute Rice)
1 tsp salt
1 qt. milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp almond extract
2 cups heavy cream, whipped and sweetened to taste
1/2 cup almonds, chopped
1 whole almond

Directions:
Bring milk to boil. Wash rice and add to hot milk, with sugar to taste. Simmer over med heat until well cooked (25 to 35 min). Remove from heat and stir in gelatin which has been dissolved in a little hot water. Add raisins, sugar and butter. Allow to cool well. Whip the cream and fold into rice pudding.

SFC Writing Contest

2009-04-29T10:46:00.001-07:00

Wacky Dream Story Contest
Entry Fee: $10 for adults. Young authors (17 and under) free
Deadline: May 30, 2009
Send Stories for Children Magazine a short story for children ages 12 and under about a wacky dream. You can either write about a dream you've actually had or about a dream one of your characters has. It's up to you, but remember the story has to be for children ages 12 and under. This means no sexual content, violence, or anything related to drugs.
Submissions are due: March 1, 2009 thru May 30, 2009
Who can enter? Adults and Children (17 and under)
Contest Fees: Adults $10
Children 17 & under FREE
Contest Prizes:
The Top Three stories for both categories will be published in the following months-
1st place in the July 2009 SFC issue
2nd place in the August 2009 SFC issue
3rd place in the September 2009 SFC issue
On top of being published in Stories for Children Magazine our Top Three Winners in both categories will also receive-
For Adults -
1st Place: A year subscription to Children's Writers put out by The Institute of Children’s Literature.
2nd Place: Writer's Little Instruction Book: Craft & Technique by Paul Raymond Martin published by Writer's Digest
3rd Place: Writer's Little Instruction Book: Getting Published by Paul Raymond Martin published by Writer's Digest
For Youth (17 and under)- a $10 gift certificate to a store of their choice.
To find out more visit http://storiesforchildrenmagazine.org/WackyDreamStoryContest.aspx

New Proofreader For Stories For Children Magazine

2009-04-28T16:04:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't heard, I made it through three interviews and was offered the job as proofreader at Stories for Children Magazine.

I've followed this magazine online, since it's start and even contributed a story or two. The growth of this once small e-zine is incredible. I look forward to working with the great people at SFC and can't wait to see what and where the magazine will lead all of us.

Writers: Check my blog on occasion and whenever possible I will pass on information about submission needs.

Readers: This monthly magazine for 3-12 year olds has a little something for everyone.

Haven't heard of SFC Magazine? We'd love for you to stop by and check it out. CHECK IT OUT

CHECK THIS OUT

2009-04-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

Love beautiful jewelry? Love seeing kids who totally rock! Here is the link to my amazing WIP star:

SYD ROCKS NECKLACES

Preview Bite of Washington

2009-03-29T09:22:00.001-07:00

Jacket Flap Rocks!

2009-03-28T19:07:00.001-07:00

Finish the Sentence Writer Style

2009-03-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

Finish The Sentence.... With a relation to writing

1. My ex is...eating crow from when he told me I couldn't be a writer.
2. Maybe I should... start a new romantic suspense.
3. I love... writing non-fiction for children.
4. People would say that I am...devoted to success in my field.
5. I don't understand...why celebrities can publish children's books.
6. When I wake up in the morning...I think about writing.
7. I lost...a contract due to an editor leaving the company.
8. Life is full of...rejections, consider them badges of courage.
9. The past taught me...to submit to the correct publishers the first time.
10. I get annoyed when...I wait months for a generic rejection.
11. Parties are...are best when your editor is footing the bill.
12. I wish I was...arranging a book signing for myself.
13. Dogs...are a poor substitute for cats.
14. Cats...are best when they come from Thailand.
15. Tomorrow...I will start a new writing project.
16. I have a low tolerance for...people who look down on others.
17. If I had a million dollars...buy a yacht and sail the Caribbean with a laptop to write.
18. I'm totally terrified of....never getting a book published.

Blog and Website Promotion

2009-03-22T14:23:00.001-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-15T08:53:00.001-07:00

Send this eCard !

Book Sale Fundraiser

2009-03-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

One of my daughter's first grade classmates lost her mother. After a battle MS, I'm certain the family is left with medical bills and memorial expenses. As a room parent, I'm working with our school and other parents to start a fund for the family. It will be given as a gift from our elementary school. We will have a bake sale during PTA BINGO night and gather funds through other activities as well. I'd like to do more, so here is the deal...

If you have ever thought about purchasing Bite of Washington, now is the time. All proceeds received from the sale of my cookbook dating from March 1st-March 31st will be donated to the memorial gift fund. After printing cost, I net around $3 per book. It doesn't seem like much, but every cent counts. If you, or someone you know would like to help out, please feel free to forward my message.

Bite of Washington is available via Amazon.com

"Product Description
Fourteen chapters highlight Washington food festivals and event through out the year. There are over 180 recipes utilizing foods grown in Washington. The book includes several recipes from local, professional chefs. Visit Washington, and take a bite home with you!"

Where can you buy Bite of Washington?

2009-02-28T15:34:00.000-08:00

CLICK HERE ---->www.amazon.com Offers my book printed for $10 plus shipping or a Kindle download for only $4.

March Sample Bite of Washington

2009-02-28T09:59:00.001-08:00

I thought it might be fun to feature small samples of my cookbook, bite of Washington. It is available on Amazon for $10 print and $4 Kindle. The book starts with a brief description of Washington's climate and culture. It then takes you through the main types of apples grown in our state (our biggest food find). Then each chapter travels month by month, highlighting 5 food festivals and 3 recipes for each of them. Some recipes are donated by professional/local chefs. The entire books has delightful photos from around the state.

Please note all works posted here are copyrighted by Teresa Nordheim 2009 Don't distribute without written permission.

In the coastal town of Ocean Shores, excitement is hopping every March as visitors stop by to try a tasteful treat from the sea. This one day event features a cook-off, events for the kids, and even a clam shovel / gun decorating contest.

The Razor Clam Festival
Toll Free: 1.800.762.3224
Email: chamber@oceanshores.org
Website: http://www.oceanshores.org

Pacific Northwest Clam Chowder

Nothing warms a cold day better then a steaming hot bowl of clam chowder. For an extra special treat, cut the center from a large sour dough loaf. Fill the bread bowl with chowder.

Ingredients:
2 Tbsp diced bacon
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 cup diced raw potatoes
2 cup water
1 pint clams ground or chopped and liquid
1 can evaporated milk
3 Tbsp butter
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp white pepper

Directions:
Sauté bacon until crisp. Remove scraps from pan and keep for use later as a garnish. Add chopped onion to hot fat. Sauté until tender but don’t brown. Combine cooked onion and diced potatoes in a deep saucepan. Add water and bring to a simmer for about fifteen minutes or until potatoes are done. Stir in clams and all other ingredients. Heat until piping hot, but do not boil.

February Sample Bite of Washington

2009-02-20T13:13:00.001-08:00

I thought it might be fun to feature small samples of my cookbook, bite of Washington. It is available on Amazon for $10 print and $4 Kindle. The book starts with a brief description of Washington's climate and culture. It then takes you through the main types of apples grown in our state (our biggest food find). Then each chapter travels month by month, highlighting 5 food festivals and 3 recipes for each of them. Some recipes are donated by professional/local chefs. The entire books has delightful photos from around the state.

Please note all works posted here are copyrighted by Teresa Nordheim 2009 Don't distribute without written permission.

February Sample:

Wine Country Red, Wine and Chocolates
Toll Free: 1-800-258-7270
Email: info@wineyakimavalley.org
Website: http://www.wineyakimavalley.org/

Pairing Wine and Chocolate
Do chocolate and wine really mix? Most people believe chocolate goes with anything, and if you pair correctly, wine it a perfect mate to chocolate. The number one rule in pairing these two, is that the wine should be as sweet or sweeter then the chocolate. Otherwise, both will sour.

White chocolate goes with Sherry, Moscato, Muscat, or Champagne
Milk chocolate goes with Pinot Noir, Merlot, Rieslings, dessert wines, Chardonnay
Dark chocolate goes with Zinfandels, Cabernet Sauvignon or Port

Teresa Nordheim in Highlights Magazine?

2009-02-19T10:10:00.000-08:00

It's possible. For those of you who have followed this blog, you might remember the article I did on Sydney Martin. She is an incredible young girl who has over come a rare blood disorder and turned it into a way to education and comfort others children. The story I submitted would be featured in "Gallant Kids" section of Highlights Magazine. I received an email this AM to work out a few final kinks, and a promising note that a contract could develop very soon!

It has been a long wait, but if it turns out successful, then it was well worth every second. I'll keep you posted.

Resume Updated

2009-02-15T21:10:00.000-08:00

I just completed a few revisions on my resume. New resume has been posted on my website and will be sent to a couple of publishers this next week.

Price reduced and made electronic

2009-01-27T09:11:00.001-08:00

My cookbook is now offered at a reduced price. For only $10, you can own a copy of the best Washington state cookbook ever written. This makes for a great gift for visiting friends! I have also uploaded it to the electronic version on Amazon.com. You need to viewer to view this version.

Enjoy!

Query Tracker

2009-01-08T09:08:00.000-08:00

Wonderful writing site, which I like to visit.

QUERY TRACKER

2008 in Review

2008-12-26T11:20:00.000-08:00

Goals and Actual Numbers From 2008

Goals Agent Submissions 50
Agent Requests 12
Publisher Submissions 50
Publisher Requests 12

Actual Agent Submissions 41
Agent Requests 2
Publisher Submissions 52
Publisher Requests 4

*I did sign my story, Kat, Got Your Tonsils? with an agent, Elizabeth Jote of Objective Entertainment.
*I did have 6 stories published this year. Three in print and three online.
*My first major print article came out this year.
*My earnings were an even $100!
*I sold two copies of my cookbook, Bite of Washington, on Amazon.com.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2009 Goals

Agent goals- Work with Liz to sell my story in 2009. Submit other stories for her to review.

Publishing goals- Sell at least one article/story per month. Break into Highlights. Break into Bug Magazines. Sell 10 cookbooks. Make postcards to send out advertising cookbook. Continue doing what I love to do...WRITE!

Happy Holidays

2008-12-18T13:09:00.000-08:00

No matter which of the many winter time holidays you celebrate, I'd like to wish you and your family a joyous and healthy holiday!

Happy Winter Solstice!

Merry Christmas!

Joyous Advent!

God Yule!

Delightful Diwali!

Happy Hanukkah! (spit of saying it included at no extra charge)

Beautiful Boxing Day!

Happy Kwanzaa!

My agent

2008-11-28T14:49:00.000-08:00

I'm pleased to announce, Elizabeth Jote of Objective Entertainment has signed a contract to represent my story, "Kat, Got Your Tonsils?". I look forward to working with her and hope the publishers will accept my story soon. Ron and Joe of Art Parts have agreed to illustrate and I look forward to working with them as well.

"Elizabeth Jote began her publishing career at Carol Mann Agency before joining OE. Her client list reflects her interest in works which straddle the line between commercial and literary genres. She is most interested in commercial fiction (women’s fiction, lad lit, thrillers, mysteries, young adult, urban fiction and multicultural books), narrative non-fiction, pop culture, current events, lifestyle books and graphic novels."

Objective Entertainment
Ron & Joe

New article published

2008-11-28T14:48:00.001-08:00

My story, Nature's Fireworks was published in Boy's Quest November/December issue.

CLICK HERE

Yeah, I went there...

2008-11-27T09:01:00.001-08:00

I'm advertising my book, again! Please feel free to pass this on to friends and family who might be interested.

Friends and Family,

If you are still looking for a nice holiday gift, look no further. My book is list for $12.45 and eligible for FREE shipping. It would make a wonderful gift for anyone who likes to cook, travel, or just learn about new areas.

Fourteen chapters highlight Washington food festivals and event through out the year. There are over 180 recipes utilizing foods grown in Washington. The book includes several recipes from local, professional chefs. Visit Washington, and take a bite home with you!

CLICK HERE

Just received my contributor copy

2008-09-20T14:41:00.000-07:00

Waaaahooo! Just received my contributor copy of my newest magazine article. It looks awesome. I will post photos to my web later.

Is an agent in my future?

2008-09-05T08:23:00.000-07:00

At this moment I have a contract sitting on my desk for review. How exciting is that? I will keep you all posted as it progresses. INSERT SNOOPY DANCE

Best Cookbook EVER!

2008-08-27T09:33:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone!

It's a great time to think of holiday gifts for friends and family. The current price is $12.45 (+shipping). Inside photos are black and white to reduce the cost but still look great. I ordered my proof and it looked awesome!

Bite of Washington is a fourteen chapter cookbook featuring over 60 food festivals and events held in Washington State. Each festival/event has 3 recipes utilizing the specific food. Thus making over 180 wonderful recipes (several by local professional chefs).

Please feel free to forward this information to anyone who might be interested. Thanks for your time.

Teresa
www.teresanordheim.com

BUY BITE OF WASHINGTON

Check this out!

2008-08-25T14:49:00.000-07:00

Here is a site of awesome artists in which I may be lucky enough to work with on a future project. Their style is off the wall great and exactly what I was looking for.

RON & JOE

Teresa sees an agent in her future!

2008-08-16T19:00:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased to announce I am in the negotiation process with a real, live New York literary agent. More details to follow!

An Amazing Young Girl

2008-06-24T16:33:00.000-07:00

Through a bit of internet research I stumbled upon an article detailing the story of one amazing your girl. Her name is Sydney Martin and she was diagnosed with a rare disease called Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Instead of giving into the depression she was feeling, she began making beautiful necklaces. Syd Rocks can be purchased for $15 and the money goes Langerhans cell histiocytosis research. I look forward to learning more about Sydney. In the meantime, I recommend checking out her necklaces.

BUY A NECKLACE

Interested Agent?

2008-06-13T08:36:00.000-07:00

With her fingers and toes crossed, children's author, Teresa Nordheim sits at the computer hoping Friday the 13th will bring her the luck she needs to snag an agent. She just received a request for a full manuscript. Now we just need to hope the story sells as well as the query letter.

For Luck

Good Luck For This Here Site

May Luck Be Upon This Site

Coming in April 2011

2008-05-30T11:30:00.000-07:00

Nadia Elena Comaneci an article highlighting the great successes of this gymnast who changed the World with perfect 10's and continues to encourage young girls. I was lucky enough to obtain the use of photos from Nadia's personal collection. Can't wait to see how it all turns out! Hopscotch for Girls April 2011

Second Once Upon a Time Article

2008-05-04T11:43:00.000-07:00

180 Washington Recipes for $10!

2008-05-04T11:38:00.000-07:00

I've reformatted this book to reduce the cost to you. Sells for $10 with around $4.10 media mail shipping. That is less then $15 for over 180 recipes! Make a great gift! Your mother would love it! You'd love it! Tell your friends!

BITE OF WASHINGTON

Take a bite out of Washington the next time you visit. Visitors immerse themselves into local foods and culture specific to an area and often want to take home more information. Washington State works its way into people’s hearts and kitchens with its diverse and interesting dishes offered at local food festivals. Bite of Washington is the working title for my fourteen chapter travel guide and cookbook. Each chapter will feature one month, five food festivals, and fifteen recipes. Words and photos describe each local festival. Basic event information will be listed and followed with recipes reflecting the event. Local, professional chefs, friends, family, local businesses, and myself, have donated recipes to this collection. This makes it possible for tourists to replicate what they loved during their visit.

Test

2008-04-27T10:36:00.001-07:00

Please disregard.

Amazing Mazes of Maize

2008-04-25T11:56:00.001-07:00

Amazing print article coming...

2008-04-20T10:10:00.001-07:00

Amazing Mazes of Maize will be appearing in the May/June 2008 issue of Fun for Kids Magazine. Don't miss this exciting article detailing the fun mazes created out of maize (corn) and experience first hand traveling through maze making from start to finish.

Bite of Washington is ready for purchase

2008-03-09T11:12:00.001-07:00

I would like to extend a special offer to friends, family and website visitors.

I have completed my Washington State cookbook, and would like to offer friends and family a chance to purchase it at my reduced price. I will keep it at this price for a week and then it will increase. If you miss the deadline, but would like a copy, please let me know and I will be help you out.

Visit Teresa's Book Store

Thanks for taking the time to visit the site and check out the preview. Special thanks to all of you who helped in the making of this book.

Sicnerely,
Teresa

Norway 2008

2008-03-04T10:32:00.001-08:00

My first print article

2008-02-19T16:32:00.000-08:00

I'm pleased to announce that I received a nice surprise in my mailbox today. I found two contributor copies of my first in print magazine article! Yes, that was a sweet surprise! Can't wait to frame it.

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T08:27:00.000-08:00

Just sending out a happy Valentine wish to all of my cyber friends. May roses and chocolates come your way (and if they do, send the chocolates to me!)

Small preview of my current work in progress

2008-01-23T09:43:00.000-08:00

Washington Food and Fun (recipe and event guide)

Each month will contain five food events highlighting Washington foods. There will be three recipes for each event and one photo to show the beauty of the state.

COPYRIGHT 2008 by TERESA NORDHEIM
Often visitors submerse themselves into the local foods and cultures that are specific to the area. Washington State is no exception and has managed to work its way into people’s hearts and kitchens.

7-Up Sturgeon
By Butch Smith at Coho Charters

Ingredients:
1-2 cups fresh sturgeon
3 cups 7-Up
Garlic butter

Directions:
Cut white sturgeon filets into 1/2'' to 1'' cubes. Bring 7up to a boil place. Add cubed sturgeon skin off, into 7-Up. When fish floats to the top and turns white, it's ready. Tastes great dipped in melted garlic butter.

I am soooooooo excited

2008-01-15T11:29:00.000-08:00

MO WILLIEMS will be at the 2008 SCBWI writer's conference! That is so awesome I can hardly wait to meet or at least see my very favorite children's author. That could mean an autographed copy my book, Leonardo The Terrible Monster. Did I mention I am excited??? MO ROCKS!!!

2008 New Year Writing Resolutions (& 2007 results)

2008-01-02T09:15:00.001-08:00

2007 Results

Agent Submissions 63
Agent Requests 6
Publisher Submissions 33
Publisher Requests 8

2008 Goals

Sell 12 stories
Submit at least 5 stories per month
Complete editing on at least one of my suspense manuscripts
Query at least one agent per month
Blog at least one time per month
Sell to Carus Publishing (bug magazines)
Sell to Highlights

Merry Christmas

2007-12-22T13:00:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas 2007!

The 2007 Cybils

2007-11-29T16:55:00.000-08:00

VOTE FOR ME TO WIN

2007-11-16T14:52:00.000-08:00

The Round One reading and voting period for the Court TV Search for the Next Great Crime Writer Contest has officially begun! Below, please find all the eligible entries listed in alphabetical order by book title.

From now through December 9, 2007, you may read and vote for as many entries as you like. The fifteen chapters with the most "10" votes will proceed to Round Two, along with the ten chapters selected by the Gather Editorial Team.

My story is titled: Love on Hold

Please help vote me through to the next round!

www.gather.com

Happy Halloween

2007-10-31T11:39:00.000-07:00

Is it possible I have been way too busy to blog? I can't believe November is almost here. I'm behind on my writing goals for 2007 and I only have two months to complete them The race is on.

I'm currently working on some non-fiction magazine pieces, a Washington cookbook, and several rewrites.

Watch out for all the little ghost and ghouls on Halloween!

Join Jacketflap

2007-08-28T10:24:00.000-07:00

This awesome site has been around and I yet I don't see many of my fellow writers from my home state. So it must be we need to get the word out more. Heard of Myspace? Jacketflap is a Myspace for anyone connected with children's literature. It holds one of the best collections of publishers on the web, book reviews, and allows you to be in contact with other writers, illustrators, editors, agents, and publishers. I give Jacketflap a TWO THUMBS UP and recommend it to everyone.

Hey friends, where are you from?

2007-08-01T12:00:00.001-07:00

I have a new fun feature on my website. You can stop by for a visit and mark your place on the map. Just click on "view map" below and add your flag, icon and message.

View my Guestmap

Free Guestmaps by Bravenet.com

Article accepted!

2007-07-21T22:51:00.000-07:00

My article, Writing for Children's Magazines, has been accepted and will appear in a future edition of Once Upon a Time (a magazine for children's writers and illustrators).

SCBWI writing contest win!

2007-06-12T14:24:00.000-07:00

I just received word from the SCBWI Webmaster. My poem, A Memorable Moment has won honorable mention in their "June Looms" writing contest. There were over 250 entries this month, with one winner and two honorable mentions.

SCBWI Contest Link

I'm not sure if all children's writers are aware of these contests, but they are great. About two years back, I won a writing contest and one free year membership. The contests run 'about' every other month. There is one for illustrators and one for writers.

Time off from writing

2007-05-30T17:38:00.001-07:00

Due to personal problems I will be taking some time away from writing. Please check back for details.

Slow month

2007-05-26T08:11:00.000-07:00

It's been a slow month. I have many ideas floating around about my 'Gem Series' and most of my time has been focused on perfecting that project. I still haven't heard back from McGraw Hill about the story they were holding, so I am preparing to take the series to other publishers and see what happens. It's disappointing, but I guess this is what happens when your contact leaves a company.

CTB McGraw Hill

2007-04-16T08:47:00.000-07:00

WOW! I received an email from the editor at Wee Ones Magazine this morning. My story, The Tired Chipmunk appeared in their November/December 2006 edition and will be reprinted by CTB McGraw Hill for the New York State Test.

Remodeling and renovation?

2007-04-12T07:41:00.000-07:00

Yes, I applied and was accepted to work for a company who produces a website for remodeling and renovation. I'm looking forward to working with them. You can visit their site at: http://www.alphabetlane.com

What editors say about my work

2007-04-08T15:02:00.000-07:00

When the stack of rejections begin to grow a writer must find a way to see the positive in them. Fellow writers have said they thought about wallpapering their bathrooms. Others used the paper to light fires in the winter. Here are some positive words I found in my rejections from various publishers:

Whidbey Island Writer's Association Contest (Dare to be Different)

- Nice story. Good lessons, without being pushy.
- Great beginning. You start off at 60 MPH.
- Wonderful story. The lesson learned was great!
- Good, believable dialogue.
- Great use of showing, not telling.
- Imagery though out is very good. Kids would love it.
- Send this to a publisher! Good luck.

The Wright Group McGraw Hill (Dare to be Different)
Thank you for the opportunity to review Dare to be Different for publication consideration. The publishing committee has reviewed your material and, although the materials you have created are interesting and varied, a project of this nature does not fit into our current publishing plan.
However, we do feel that your manuscript is well-written and appropriate, and we will continue to keep it on file for any future projects.

Silhouette
- I found much to like about this project (Love on Hold)
- Aspects of this story are compelling. (From the Ashes)

Hopscotch for Girl
-Your story is great! We enjoyed reading it.

Perfection Learning Corporation (Dare to be Different)
- Our editors enjoyed your manuscript

Sasquatch (I Love it When it Rains)
- Your story idea is very cute and has potential.

Illumination Arts (In Daddy's Arms)
- We read, In Daddy's Arms with great interest.

Highlights
-Thanks for thinking of us with your work (hand written on reject)

Blogger promotion

2007-03-26T14:53:00.000-07:00

Technorati Profile

I'm BEARY happy today!

2007-03-23T12:41:00.000-07:00

Today I received my first postcard from Highlights Magazine. It's a cute card with bears on it stating, "Please bear with us as we are looking over your manuscript"! Of course, this means I have only broken past level one at Highlights, but it's a big step for me. The rest of my manuscripts were eagerly rejected in record time. Snoopy dance time!

Tiger Tech

2007-03-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

Occasionally I'm asked where my site is hosted and are they meeting my needs. I love my hosting company and would recommend them to anyone. They are affordable, and offer awesome features that can't be beat by some others out there. If you are thinking of starting your own website, please check them out.

Spring Has Sprung

2007-03-18T19:47:00.001-07:00

It has been awhile since I hit the blog and figured it was due. Not much new in my world. My youngest daughter, Katerina had her tonsils taken out and is healing very well. I have been writing, and submitting like crazy. Such is the life of a writer.

My apologies to the wonderful duo at Variteck Web Design, Jason and Sara. (You two know my ability to wait patiently is little to none.) They did the wonderful design on my webpage, and I have attempted a few updates since their original design. This normally sets Jason's head in a spin as he is left with tons of re-programming work to do. If you need a web designed by two awesome folks, check out their site at: http://www.varitek.co.uk Sara does the graphics and Jason does the programming. Between them, they create eye catching sites that get rave reviews.

Tonsil Project

2007-02-20T16:21:00.000-08:00

Well, if my youngest daughter wasn't under going tonsil surgery in two days, I could be evenmore excited about this project. I have just completed my manuscript for, Kat, Got Your Tonsils? This picture book manuscript is designed to help parents explain tonsilecotomies to their children when the cat has their tongue.

I found a wonderful illustration online and contacted the artist. They are willing to work with me on this project. I am utterly excited! The illustration style is perfect for this story. Check out their awesome work:

http://www.fotosearch.com/art-parts/

Books Available - Lulu Press

2007-02-20T13:20:00.000-08:00

Nordheim Press (with the help of Lulu Press), presents two of my tales in print and download. There are hardback and paperback editions of the children's story. I wish they could be offered at a lower price, but publishing is not a low cost world. It is quite fun to see my work in print. More stories to come, as I get some time to prepare them.

Follow the link to find In Mama's Arms and Love on Hold.

http://stores.lulu.com/store.php?fAcctID=778864

Article Accepted

2007-01-26T16:27:00.000-08:00

Received word today from Fun for Kidz. They will be publishing my article titled, Amazing Mazes of Maize in their May 2008 fun on the farm edition. One more small leap in the right direction.

Happy New Year

2007-01-13T12:18:00.000-08:00

I don't have much for new news, but thought I better post something to start 2007.

My romantic suspense stories are not doing well. I recieved a reject for Love on Hold this week. The editor said, "there was much to like about this project", but as you can imagine, it ended with "but it doesn't meet our editorial needs". Forward we move, and off to the next publisher.

I just typed up my entry for the 2007 Highlights Fiction Contest. This will be my third year of entering, and they say the third time is a charm.

One of my new year resolutions is to blog more. So look forward to updates.

Happy 2007 and well wishes to everyone!

I'm a winner!

2006-11-22T15:36:00.000-08:00

Last night I typed in word number 50,000! I have offically completed my first NANO. Even better, the story really came together and I think with some revisions it will be a keeper.
Looks like they have already been updating the NANO site. When I logged in tonight to update my word count to 53,000, I found myself surrounded with WINNER signs all over the place. SWEET!

Rejected!

2006-11-16T16:41:00.000-08:00

The mail person was mean today. She delivered a big, fat R from Harlequin Intrigue. I guess it is time to go back to the drawing board.

I will finish my NANO project, but then it will be time to take a serious look at my writing career. I think it is time to decide if I can really make it in the writing world, or continue on the path of insanity.

Writing is easy. All you do is sit staring at a blank sheet of paper until the drops of blood form on your forehead.~ Gene Fowler

Fun For Kidz Acceptance

2006-11-06T15:32:00.000-08:00

The mailbox held a small surprise for me today. Fun For Kidz will publish my article, "Real Funny Names" in 2009.

Requested Manuscript has arrived

2006-11-03T14:32:00.000-08:00

The Acid Monster was requested by Free Spirit Publishing. This is a company who specializes in self help books. They requested my manusript last month and it arrived in their office today. Their email said 2-6 month wait to hear back. Another wait. Oh well. At least it is sitting on an editor's desk.

NANO Day 1

2006-11-01T21:31:00.000-08:00

I'm still alive, but only 1440 words into the 50,000. It has been slow going at the start and I am not happy with the first chapter. I hope that will all smooth out in the rewrite. Here is the rough, rough, rough first paragraph:

The third watch at Station 30 was known to be chaotic and thrilling, but after a twenty-four hour shift it was close to impossible to think clearly or even function. Sleep was an unknown verb. Relaxation was unheard of. If the crew was lucky, these smoke eaters had enough time to fix a quick bite to eat between calls. That was if they were lucky. Some nights it seemed the calls were neverending. Tonight was no exception, especially with their elusive arsonist reeking havoc through the town.

NANO 2006

2006-10-26T20:21:00.000-07:00

I am hoping this counter will work. I may have entered wrong. If it works, you will be able to watch my progress into NANO 2006. Last year I finsihed with 48,000 words. This year I intend to win with 50,000!

Harlequin Intrigue

2006-09-29T17:01:00.000-07:00

GASP! I went to the mail box today and retrieved an envelope from Harlequin. They enjoyed my romantic suspense, LOVE ON HOLD and have requested to see the full manuscript. I am jumping up and down. Well, I would if I had time, but I need a final revision and then printer ink! Wish me well.

Dragonfly Spirit

2006-09-11T22:14:00.000-07:00

Wow. I can now say my name has been on the front cover a children's magazine. How cool is that? http://www.dragonflyspirit.com/sept_2006_cover.html

Once Upon A Time

2006-07-12T18:46:00.000-07:00

I am proud to announce my article, Little Badges of Courage will appear in the next issue of Once Upon a Time. This is a magazine for children's writers. This will be my first official PRINT article. http://onceuponatimemag.com/

Highlights Fiction Contest 2006

2006-07-07T11:38:00.000-07:00

The winners of the Highlights 2006 Fiction Contest were announced yesterday. Sadly, my name wasn't on the list. Looks like we will try again next year. Congrats to the three winners.

Big Thank You

2006-06-30T15:01:00.000-07:00

I wanted to take a moment to thank my friend, Jason Boyd. He is the one who transformed my website. Thanks a million.

Welcome

2006-06-09T19:47:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog. If you are only able to view the first two posts, please click on my profile to visit my webpage and view the full blog. This is an area where you can keep up-to-date on the latest happening in my writing career. I hope you will enjoy.