Annie Doyle

Beautiful Families

2009-06-27T21:22:00.004+10:00

My own beautiful family holds enough inspiration for any would-be writer of Super Romance novels. Here is a pic from our family album:
(Photo not taken by me, sorry!)
Aren't they gorgeous? Desperately devoted duo becomes trio!!

The Bride and Groom

2009-02-20T20:28:00.002+10:00

Wedding Bells

2009-02-10T23:27:00.002+10:00

Start the wedding bells a-tinkling!!! We're having a Valentine's Day wedding, - that's THIS week. My son and his lady are finally getting married. Her three littlies will form part of the wedding party as well as my other two offspring. It will be held in the garden of a friend and then afterwards we've hired a room at a local club.
Once again, I have been heavily involved: flowers, cake, decorating, the list goes on...
I must say, I love weddings. What's not to love for a romance writer? It has to be the epitome of all we stand for. Love, so deep, so committed, that two lives are joined as one, in all it's traditional glory. Even if elements of the ceremony or reception are not so traditional, we still cling to it in a fairytale-like state, dreaming of the happily ever after.
Like I said, what's not to love?
regards Annie

Mayana update

2009-02-05T08:21:00.002+10:00

Isn't she adorable??? This was our first visit!!

Love story

2009-02-05T07:59:00.004+10:00

I received this email from my brother-in-law and had to share it with you!

The love story of Ralph and Edna...

Just because someone doesn't love you the way you want them to, doesn't mean they don't love you with all they have. Ralph and Edna were both patients in a mental hospital. One day while they were walking past the hospital swimming pool. Ralph suddenly jumped into the deep end.

He sank to the bottom of the pool and stayed there.

Edna promptly jumped in to save him. She swam to the bottom and pulled him out. When the Head Nurse Director became aware of Edna's heroic act she immediately ordered her to be discharged from the hospital, as she now considered her to be mentally stable.

When she went to tell Edna the news she said, 'Edna, I have good news and bad news. The good news is you're being discharged, since you were able to rationally respond to a crisis by jumping in and saving the life of the person you love. I have concluded that your act displays sound mindedness.

The bad news is, Ralph hung himself in the bathroom with his bathrobe belt right after you saved him. I am so sorry, but he's dead.'

Edna replied, 'He didn't hang himself, I put him there to dry. How soon can I go home?'

Happy Mental Health Day!

You can do your bit by remembering to send this to an unstable friend...

Done my part!!!

Welcome Precious Princess

2009-01-18T20:07:00.006+10:00

Welcome to the world, Mayana Joy Shanae my first grandchild.

The Waiting Game

2009-01-13T07:54:00.001+10:00

Annie is still awaiting the arrival of first grandchild, soon, pleeeeze!!

First Message for 2009

2009-01-08T15:00:00.003+10:00

Hi All
Hope you are surviving the new year - happily, healthily. Sorry to say I have had a nasty touch of a viral infection and have not been a 'happy camper' to say the least. Never mind, I shall survive.
We are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the lil munchkin grandbaby, any day now. That poor mummy tummy doesn't look to be able to stretch much more. How quickly we forget when a couple of decades have passed!! LOL
I shall be in touch, so stay tuned!
Regards Annie

New from old

2008-12-15T17:28:00.004+10:00

Hi all,
Well today I am very excited to show you some pictures of my work space. And yes, I have been doing some work, so there!
We have been gradually adding some overhead cupboards and some full height bookshelves, so I can now un-store my many boxes of books hidden during the rest of the house renovations. Add some lovely timber blinds and clear off the years of non-filing from the top of those beautiful timber bench tops and voila!! A very lovely working office once again. We have used new and recycled goods during this process and it's a rather eclectic look. But never mind, you get that being married to a builder who won't throw ANYTHING away. Just as well, coz I'm still here too.
The shelves used to be old kitchen cupboard doors. My desk was recycled too. It used to display our sons train set several decades ago. Add a couple of legs and now it's a desk. Now don't laugh too much, it just happens to be true.
Outside, the two large windows reveal a beautiful entry/patio area complete with water feature, lovely tropical plants including orchids, and oh, did I mention the rubbish bins? We can't have everything it seems.
Regards
Annie

Adapting reality

2008-11-22T14:34:00.004+10:00

Hello to all of my online followers. I miss you all.
As most of my posts include some element of photography, I thought I would talk about that topic today. Not sure if I have mentioned one of my favorite things to do with a camera - to find the abstract within reality. Maybe it's my warped view of looking at life causing me to think this way, LOL.
I recently purchased a new camera to zoom in on smaller abstractions or larger ones, whichever way you look at it. The larger than life problem now is I'm having a nervous breakdown learning to use it! With little success. What I have been keen to do is find new editing software to fine-tune the pictures. So, I've now downloaded the free software (because I can't afford to buy any)and have to learn to use both the new camera and the new software. I'm not really happy about that fact, but thought I would share the first one I think would look lovely on the wall.
Family - growing tummies all around, all are round!! Future babies doing well.
- visitors!!
- birthday parties everywhere!!
- wedding planner/decorator Annie has a job to do!!
- renovations still under way!!
- health so-so, actually well, but torn tendon in wrist still excruciating!!
- medication - fabulous!!!!!
Regards
Annie

One of my favorite photos

2008-10-13T17:03:00.004+10:00

As the sun sinks in the sky I'm assured that night will darken the earth and the giver of light will rise again in the morning. I'm hoping this is true of my writing.
I have some more exciting news. We are expecting grand-baby Number 2!!! This little one will be born in Mid May, just weeks after the parents were to be married. So one door closes but another one certainly will open!! Just like those sunsets and sunrises.
I sincerely apologize to all my readers for not updating this blog as often as I'd like. Hope you understand that life does get in the way some times.
Regards Annie

Bring back Spring - it is inevitable

2008-08-29T13:21:00.004+10:00

Here down under we will soon be lapping up the warmth of Spring. What I would love more than that is some spring in my step. Still experiencing ill health and NOT enjoying what usually brings me pleasure at the moment finds me determined to build my immune system to make it work for a change!! I am really hoping the new season will not only occur weather-wise but also health-wise. When I am feeling better my doctor has promised he will attack my wrist with a scalpel - now isn't that something to look forward to?
Now that you know how I'm feeling, do you think it's possible that I would jump up on a stage and start singing and dancing? Nope, you guessed that right.
Let's look at this scenario regarding characterization. Valerie Parv says it's inevitable for characters to react a certain way that isn't contrived. In other words, if you have set the heroine up as a timid, li'l thing with a people phobia, she would never consider jumping on the stage with me to sing a duet and dance too. Once a writer has gifted characters with their personality there's an inevitability as to how they act and react.
As a writer, care has to be taken to portray characters true to their created personalities for what Ms Parv calls the 'ring of truth'. As a reader I am so frustrated when I see this abused. I could put a recent example in here but don't want to hurt the published author!! There was a scene that I could never, EVER see the heroine indulging in for the sake of her hero. Sorry, but there are just some things that are inevitable and this scene was SO contrived that I was getting annoyed. Still, she's published and I'm not. I guess if the story is good enough there are some things we can skip over. But I won't be picking up this author again.
How about you? Have you read something that was so out of character it turned you off the story or even the author?
Regards Annie

Go Ahead... look the part!

2008-07-31T00:05:00.004+10:00

I haven't done anything on the blog this week because I have been sick. Nothing too serious just quite nasty, and hopefully, short-lived.
It did give me the perfect opportunity to look the part. (What is she talking about? I hear you ask.)
We Aussies are experiencing the chilly days of winter 'down under'. Here in Queensland where the promotional tourist banners brag 'beautiful one day, perfect the next' we get... hmm let's see now... maybe a couple of cold days hmmm let's be generous and say, we get a week. Well, we are having that now! LOL
My hubby is what we 'down under' would call a tuff Aussie male. That means, he will sit there in his Tshirt and shorts and deny that he is cold and tuff it out, macho like! Aahh but I can see his feet edging closer to the heater. Oh didn't I tell you that he makes sure the heater is on but 'tuffs it out' just the same!
That's right, I forgot I was talking about looking the part. Well, here it comes.
Sick, warm cuppa beside the bed, great book in hand, doona up around the ears, trackie dacks (that's what we call 'em anyway. The translation would be... the lower part of the track suit) Tshirt or maybe a sloppy joe (oh translated kinda like the long sleeved trackie top LOL) AND let's not forget the fluffy dressing gown and slippers (but not while in bed - well - most times anyway!!). But Queenslanders rarely even own slippers, we just wear socks with our thongs. OOPs translated that would be flip flops. Now I don't know what would look worse, fluffy bed socks with your thongs or ours!!! ROFL cough cough (holding crutch, don't ya hate it when ya have to do that?)
I forgot the best bit. Because there is a book in hand we can stay there all day (oh I mean in bed not with hand in crutch!! Come On) and call it research.
Until a food craving comes, then that would be time to get up and do some exercise - walk downstairs, boil kettle and make another cuppa, raid the fridge (but only briefly, too cold to linger), zap whatever is in your hand (from fridge - preferably leftover chicken/vegie soup) in microwave, trudge back upstairs, and settle in for more research!!!
My dog is so desperate for company he has taken to running away all day. AND he hates the cold so much he wraps himself in the tiny mat we wipe our feet on at the back door (I guess that's what you do with a mat anyway isn't it?) - when he's at the back door of course!
Well, back on subject, the looking-the-part bit, NO I AM NOT taking PHOTOs!!!
Regards Annie sniff sniff cough cough
PS Announcement - any reference to real life is purely fictional of course, and bears no resemblance to anyone/canine living or dead ROFL cough cough (hold the crutch)

Floor Plans

2008-07-22T09:18:00.005+10:00

Design - Homestead 37 - copyrighted to Newstart Homes

Whenever a new house is about to be built, the owners and builder pour over their floor plans making sure every detail is accounted for before construction begins. My DH is a builder and my bro is a house designer and my DD and her hubby are developing several properties, so I have seen my fair share of plans in my time.
As I am about to start a new story, I am still researching a couple of ideas. One of them includes the house where a lot of interaction will take place. In order to do it justice I think it is always important to draw a floor plan. I have done this several times: once for the main house of my last story, the other was a pub where several scenes were set (although the detail here wasn't as complete as for the house).
I not only use the collage for visual accuracy but I draw the floor plans to give credibility and ease for describing scenes.
Go to March 14 for my blog on collage or copy and paste this link - http://anniedoyle.blogspot.com/2008/03/collage-helps-my-creative-process.html
If the heroine turned to walk away from the dining table and walked into a wall it could prove a little embarrassing. It also helps when it comes time to describe the light or shadows or views from a room or balcony etc.
Do you use this floor plan kind of planning in your research or do you merely go with the flow and design around your characters wants and needs? I would be interested to hear your comments.
Regards Annie

Abstract expressionism and music

2008-07-03T11:17:00.004+10:00

My friend Froyle Neideck is an artist who uses music to inspire the creative process. Concentrating on abstract expressionism she conducts workshops to inspire original thought and encourage self expression. Creativity, she says, is the language of the heart. Read more on her website - by clicking the title of this blog - and check out the testimonials and her paintings. I have several! Now read here what she says about the importance of music in her creative process.

"My inspiration comes from colour itself, and my approach to art is most akin to abstract expressionism. My paintings are a celebration of the creative process; whereby the initial inspiration is the spring board and from this the art evolves.
At the moment music is playing a vital role in my creativity. It is the catalyst from where I am drawing my emotional expression and my paintings are often the execution of a visual colour melody."

I think any workshop that develops this kind of creative expression is always valuable to anyone in the arts. There are never too many roots to support a healthy plant.

When my wrist gets better I look forward to doing one of Froyle's workshops and when I do I will post a pic of the masterpiece here!!! Now that's confidence for you.

I'd love to hear what you think on this one... Do you think we, as creators of the written word, need to develop creativity or just concentrate on crafting words alone?

Regards Annie

Heroes, heroes everywhere!!

2008-06-25T00:38:00.002+10:00

I've been looking to the music scene for some inspiration for a hero. There seems to be plenty, but which will I choose? Bonnie Taylor is holding out for a hero. Metallica’s hero of the day isn’t John Lennon’s working class hero. Thank goodness we don’t believe as Tina Turner does, because she doesn’t need another hero. I do. I always need another hero. Bring on the hero and bring him on now. My friend is like Neil Young, sharing appreciation for the western hero as does ELO with and even wilder western hero. Then there’s Loverboy’s home town hero, Terri Clarke’s unsung hero and the Days of Yore sole hero while Jamie O’Neil has somebody’s hero, but it seems he doesn’t belong to Trixter because according to them nobody’s a hero. There are all the other heroes, the list goes on… TV hero, Juke box hero, war torn hero, space-age hero, Zero the hero and let’s not forget yesterday’s hero (though he’s probably a bit out-of-date for us LOL). And the birth of a hero probably means a series or a very long wait! What we want is for our heroine to join Emery in holding out for a hero or, no wait, yes, yes… I’ll have what Reel Big Fish is having – a brand new hero!! Will you join me? I promise to share!

Our Hero has a 'Soft-Spot"

2008-06-12T12:44:00.003+10:00

Don't we all love a great hero? Of course, that's why we read and (some of us) write romance. Recent conversations have brought up the issue of how strong (or alpha) writers should make the hero.
One statement kept coming up. 'He should never be weak.' The last thing writers want to portray is a weak hero but how to make him a sensitive new-age guy while still have the strength to take the 'hero' role of a story is the balancing act of every writer who wishes to steer away from the true alpha portrayal.
But even an alpha needs a soft-spot.
Cynthia VanRooy says most romance novels portray the hero as the macho, alpha male type character. So, how does the writer develop him further? She says to “create a hero the reader will fall in love with… by showing the little boy within the man.”
Well, little boy within the man, hmmm… my DH quoted for a good many years that he was just a “growing boy”. Please let the man emerge, and quickly! LOL
Cynthia continues ”I don’t mean you should have him [the hero] exhibiting childish, immature behavior, but rather show what hurts him, excites his enthusiasm, makes him proud. Show his soft spot. Is he a sucker for kids, does he love animals, worry about his mother? You can get away with a lot in terms of macho behavior… as long as he demonstrates what Suzanne Brockmann refers to as the save-the-kitty factor”.
How to portray the ‘save-the-kitty factor’ will vary with each hero, but let’s never forget to show his soft-spot – especially the one in his heart for the heroine.

The Role of a Lifetime

2008-05-29T16:05:00.003+10:00

My good friend Jennifer Shirk has just had her book released and you really should check it out.
Here is part of the set-up as per her website - to access it directly click on the title above...
There’s more to life than playing make believe...

Sandra Moyer has a good reason to distrust actors. She was once married to one who left her and her child. However, she’s desperate for publicity to help her struggling preschool. Hollywood playboy Ben Capshaw’s request to access her classes to prepare for a role is an offer she can’t refuse.

Check it out by reading more plus an excerpt (on her 'My Books' page) and don't forget to watch the trailer on her homepage.
Regards Annie

Eagle Rock

2008-05-27T15:22:00.001+10:00

But wait, HERE IS THE NEWS

2008-05-26T09:49:00.004+10:00

Some of the news I wanted to share with you is not so earth shattering, though for me it is sensational news. All my family who have been staying here to recoup finances etc have moved out. Several times a week our household bulged with up to seven extra people (though usually it was only five) with the lounge/dining area transformed to resemble multi-bedroomed sleeping quarters. While it is always lovely to have family here and I enjoy them heaps, the addition of three little ones under four meant all our time went to just running this household.
So, now I am home alone while DH is at work and I can hear the bubbles popping in the fish tank!!!
You have no idea how excited I am.
But wait, there's more.
We found out while on holidays that we will be grandparents (our first natural grandchild) in the new year. Everyone is in 'excited hyped up mode' about this little new addition to our family. It was totally unexpected news for us as the couple is still studying but unbeknown to us they had been trying for some time. They are a truly amazing couple and will make fantastic parents and, of course, they will have some of the best grandies on the planet!! Two lots actually!!
Well that's all for today. Stay tuned for more holiday pix...
Regards Annie

Holiday Pix

2008-05-21T18:43:00.002+10:00

Click on pic for larger size of shots of the 1st day.
Geelong and Port Phillip Bay.

Home from holidays

2008-05-16T22:29:00.002+10:00

Hello to all my cyber friends.
Sorry if you've been checking here an found nothing, because I haven't written in ages. I've been away with DH on holidays. We had a lovely 10 days traveling by plane 1200 kms to drive over 1700 kms from Melbourne in Victoria to Adelaide in South Australia. Of course, it isn't that far between the two state capital cities. But using the coastal roads where we could, there have been many a photographic opportunity to take advantage of and add the ks on the dial. Unfortunately I lost my voice somewhere in Victoria and haven't found it since. This is DISASTER for someone who loves to speak as much as I do!!
If I can, I'll upload some pix over the next week or so. I also have some fantastic personal news coming soon so - Stay Tuned!!
Regards Annie

Love conquers all

2008-04-29T17:50:00.005+10:00

Everyone who as ever been in love or dreams of being in love can tell their own version of how it should be or how it came to happen that they fell in love with the person they are with. And don't we all love to hear a good love story?
I am so glad falling in love is not a straight forward process. It is as varied for each couple as we are individually unique. Without the diversity of situation, circumstances and the individuality of participating characters, romance writers would have nothing to bring their readers. And the more complex the better. It is that thrill of discovery that lures a reader to find out the answer to that all important question. How will this seemingly impossible situation resolve itself? I love to read about them, as much as anyone, to find out what happens of course.
Do you have an amazing story of love reunited, or everlasting love or love lost?
I'd enjoy hearing about them. Regards Annie

Dreaming write

2008-04-19T11:16:00.002+10:00

Some concepts made on other blogs and their comments have inspired my new train of thought. Dreams. As writers we could use more time in our week and someone suggested we lose sleep. I could NEVER do that. Not a happy chappy without my sleep!! LOL
I had a lovely romance story dream last night (while sleeping blissfully - it does happen occasionally) and then I tossed and turned trying to write the thing in my head. I have had a few of these but have never taken the time to write them down straight away to see where such a plot or thought would take me.
I have often imagined some of the other genres inspiration may well come from dreams, having marveled at their inventiveness - especially in 'other world' type scenes depicted.
I am wondering if anyone else has used an actual dream scene to include in their novels. And if so, did they turn out successfully and inspire other plot paths to enhance the overall story? Or not work at all?
Annie

Networking

2008-04-11T14:54:00.002+10:00

Networking is another facet to the writing of romance that enhances our ability to get our name out there. Blogging is one way. I love the comments (as, I'm sure, we all do) from you all who take the time to leave one. It also helps me know whether to keep writing here or not. So keep at it one and all - even if it's just to say hello.
Networking either face-to-face or online can provide us with answers to our professional questions and build those professional relationships we all need in this business.
I have been busy this week setting up some social networking pages and we all know how much time can be wasted there!! LOL But in the process I have learned a little (the tip of the iceberg really) about some basic webpage editing. Also found another photo site I like which includes an editor so I can fuss over my pix a bit more. WOW, there goes another major chunk of time.
Anway, I would encourage you to take a look at myspace.com/annie_doyle. Please add me as a friend as I would love to see you there.
Regards
Annie

To cling or not to cling

2008-03-28T22:53:00.002+10:00

Mentoring and receiving instruction
“If you be a lover of instruction, you will be well instructed.” Isocrates
While I was on my morning walk the other day I saw a vine clinging to a tree. It reminded me of mentoring. Weird I know, but then, that’s how my crazy mind works sometimes. Most times. The vine starts out crawling along the ground, it makes its way to the tree, then clings while it grows ever upwards.
Mentoring is partnering with someone more knowledgeable for the purpose of instruction. The corporate world has grasped this concept in a big way, and it's successful among youth programs. Have you ever thought about a mentor in the ‘trade’ of romance writing?
How would I do that? While the question seems a big one, may I add some of my own thoughts on this topic? While you may not need a mentor in the true sense of the word, there is a wealth of information out there already available for newbies to glean from.
Firstly, read widely and generally. Find the niche within the market you feel most comfortable with, (that is, if you haven’t already decided). The one you enjoy reading will prove to be the most obvious place to start. For example – It’s no good trying to write a paranormal if you don’t enjoy reading paranormals, even if the market is huge.
Secondly, find a few writers whose work you love and examine their content, voice and technique. Check out if they have a web presence and learn all you can from them.
Next - join groups, associations and forums with the aim of seeking out those more knowledgeable on topics of interest to you. Historical writers could do worse than forming a professional relationship with a history buff. And, while you’re involved in those group/forum situations don’t be afraid to ask questions. Make a list if necessary, to be prepared. Most people are happy to share their insight of what they’re passionate about. You may find someone who will help you more than you could ever imagine.
Even by entering competitions with feedback, you are submitting your work to others who’ve walked further up the road to publication than you. This feedback can be a valuable source of instruction.
Like the vine, use the strength of the other for your upward growth.
“Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.” Lou Holtz
Any othe ideas I haven't thought of?
Regards Annie

What is Romantic?

2008-03-22T15:05:00.003+10:00

Tell me your thoughts about a romantic setting?
It's funny how we all have a different opinion, even about what constitutes a romantic setting. Last night there was a beautiful full moon with clear sky and stars. Lovely. I called my family out to see it and the response was varied. One howled like a wolf!! And so did his fiance (they are the perfect match aren't they? LOL) My husband wished he was on the beach fishing. The children were just in awe and looking for the cow that jumped over it. I thought it was romantic.
My family lives in a gorgeous sub-tropical paradise on the coast of Australia and although we love where we live, appreciate it's natural beauty and get out in it as much as possible, to us it's still just home. Many come for honeymoons, weddings and romantic get-aways while everyday life goes on around us. However, I never take it for granted and even though I have traveled quite a lot, there's no place like my home.
Valerie Parv wrote about romantic settings in her book The Art of Romance Writing. She says "many writers are surprised to find the setting is not the most important element" when writing a romance. She says many of her powerful settings are just everyday places. While setting is important, it is the relationship between the hero and the heroine that keeps us glued to the page.
What's you idea of a romantic setting and have you used your special place in a manuscript yet?
Regards Annie

Collage helps my creative process

2008-03-14T11:27:00.008+10:00

As promised here is my collage of ideas which feeds my creative process regarding story construction.
I love Powerpoint. Starting with a blank page, I can add big or small pix, text or whatever. For my writing collages it's mainly for pix, though.
I'm attaching some jpg files of the Powerpoint slides I have used for my previous story. I usually keep one page or more for each topic. EG the first one is for heroine's setting: (Click on images to see larger versions.)

I just look for pix online that feature aspects I'm thinking I might use. (Add to page via copy and paste) In this story the heroine owns a B&B and is where she meets up again with school friend hero. Quite a lot of interaction and different scenes happen here and in the garden.
Another slide is setting pix for the rockclimbing and abseiling aspects of the story.

Here the main characters H/h have a slide but other settings like the country pub are here too. If I can't find a pic that's exactly as I visualize, I just insert a couple of different ones for an eclectic mix!!
The pix can be edited easily and shuffled on the slide to format or resize or cut and pasted to another page as required.

This slide was for careers, cars and children.
The best thing about a Powerpoint file is it can be as big or small as needed because if more inspiration is needed then an entire slide can be inserted, cut or the order rearranged by dragging and dropping.
I found these slides most useful for getting the feel for the settings. Pix mostly came from real estate ads, these helped big time. AND the entire display is always only a click away, filed with my WIP.

As usual photo files can be quite large, though usually online they are already resized. In order for the Powerpoint file to remain small, it is important to format the pictures before saving the file. Here's what I do: Right click on the pic, then choose Format Picture, then choose in lower left of box Compress, in Compress Pictures box click on all of these: All Pictures in Document; Resolution to Web/Screen (you will notice the res changes to 96 dpi) and BOTH lower options for compressing and deleting cropped sections of pictures. Click OK then OK again in the other Format Picture box.
Also when I am done I select all pix on each page by clicking the mouse in the top left of the slide and dragging it to form a box down to the bottom right. This selects all pix on the slide and then I do the following: In box after right click choose Grouping > click Group (this selects all pictures within the dotted line box made from the mouse). If you want to edit or add pix you need to do the same only Ungroup beforehand. This step is not necessary but I find it useful. Once these are grouped they can be saved as jpg files or whatever, which is what I did for this blog.
I hope none of this sounded basic or condescending - that was not my intention.
Let me know if any of this was useful or not, or if I omitted some aspect.
Regards Annie

A novel, creative process

2008-03-08T18:02:00.002+10:00

I wanted to extend the ‘creative flow’ theme of my blog entries lately to include the creative process of constructing a story worth writing.

Emma Darcy says in The Secrets of Successful Romance Writing that she starts with a single situation and visualizes it in her head. She asks herself questions about this one scene—like what is happening, why it happened and for what purpose. I like how she equates this part of the creative process to a jigsaw puzzle. If pieces don’t fit or if she has too many mixed pieces, she aborts the project and starts again.

First ideas for my next story have just been put down on paper and I hope it is worth writing! It’s certainly shaping up that way, so I may soon be in a frenzy to get those words on the page. In my previous manuscript I had included a couple who were already married. As I’d already nutted out their personalities and really liked them, I started asking myself those questions of how did they meet and what circumstances drove them into each other's arms. The answer took months to come but now it has just dawned on me and it is so obvious that it just isn’t funny. Actually it’s a bit of a ‘doh’ moment for me because it should have been clear all along.

Not sure if you’ve noticed my problem or not yet. Because this story precedes the previous one, I will have to lay the older one down for a while. The new one is set a decade before but the old one has already helped the new story because a lot of the dramatic ending I have in mind has already been mapped out, but the consequences of that event are revealed in the older manuscript.

Has anyone else had this happen during their creative process or has there been such conflicting ideas that you've just had to abort and start again?

Regards Annie

Creative Play

2008-03-04T16:44:00.012+10:00

Thanks to everyone who commented on my Creativity post last week. It is a subject we could discuss forever and probably will.
Here are some pix we took showing creativity at play. I am amazed at just how creative littlies can be-though the clever ones belong to 'teacher-in-the-making' Aunty Zoey.

A child looks at an exercise bench and sees a bus. So everyone has to get on board and pay their money before they climb on board! A child draws, paints and plays with play-dough creating another world not restricted by perspective. A child tells a story with full expectation that imaginations will be perceived as reality. Aah to be a child again with no restrictions on our creativity.

Oh and here is a pic of the gorgeous necklace Zoey made for me. I love it.

(Not my pearly complexion or pretty neck!!)
Regards
Annie

Creativity

2008-02-19T21:19:00.006+10:00

I went to a workshop on the weekend for creativity. It used drama to release the creativity within each of us. It was fun and actually turned out to be very relaxing.
We were each asked to define creativity. Here's my answer: the outward expression of an inward yearning.

Creativity can take many forms. The most obvious is within the arts. We understand clearly the outward expression of artists, writers, potters, handicrafters, dramatists and other arts creators. But what of a smart business person who finds a gap in the marketplace and cleverly finds a product to fill the niche? I consider that as 'creativity'. How about you? In what other unusual areas do you see the outward expressions of an inward yearning?

My daughter-in-law creates the most beautiful hand-crafted jewelry. My son has a very inventive mind for business ideas. My brother is an artist who now sees the abstract within the reality, expressed via his digital camera, to amazing effects. Many people I love are musicians. They make such beautiful creations. My hubby builds with his hands, creating something new every day. I don't really like cooking, but I know others who love it and create the most awesome meals etc. My best friend decorates cakes for special occassions. My sister-in-law is a floral artist. As a family, we have also examined how creatively we can incorporate learning into child's play. And of course, there's all of you out there, creating new sentences and stringing them together! Amazing.
The options for using creativity in our everyday lives are almost endless.

What do you think?

Regards Annie

Holiday coming up

2008-02-10T20:48:00.000+10:00

Thanks Chicki, Eric and Suz for responding to my last post. I forgot to say that we are not going on holidays until May. So I guess I will have to wait a little while heh?
Regards Annie

Rewrite

2008-02-05T10:26:00.000+10:00

I wasn't going to post about writing as I am not doing any ATM. But then I thought about what I am doing and thought I would share with you.
I have decided to change the ending of my story. As it is a finished manuscript it will affect most everything. Someone challenged me (prob reading this now) to put the characters motivation in one word. That did make me think because I'd never defined it that precisely. In doing so I realized that by changing the ending of the story the motivation of the major characters is changed, therefore their entire perspective and portrayal within the story changes along with it. So carefully she must proceed. In order to do this correctly and because of some big personal issues also ATM I am laying this down just for a week or so.
Now, personally we are planning a holiday. I would like to share it with you. I managed to get some great sale priced flights to Victoria and from South Australia back to Queensland. You Aussies have already preempted me I guess. We are doing the Great Ocean Road. Flying to Geelong then hiring a car, then driving along the iconic coastline for 10 days to Adelaide where we will fly home.
For those of you who don't know about this amazing part of the world - this is the southern end of Australia and has some magnificent coastal views. We are planning to drive about 200ks per day and visit a friend half way. I'm sure I will let you know how it all goes, both itinerary and actual trip, not to mention photos. Speaking of which, do a search on flickr.com for 12 Apostles, you won't be disappointed.
Regards Annie

To honour you

2008-01-30T12:10:00.000+10:00

My ALL TIME favorite shot that I took in the Privy Garden of Hampton Court Palace in London, England.
I post this to honor those who have passed this week.
My Auntie Jean, my neighbor Bruce, and a little girl called Clare, aged 11.

Click on image to see its delicate beauty...

Australia Day weekend

2008-01-27T21:46:00.004+10:00

CLICK ON AN IMAGE TO SEE THE LARGER SIZE:
Views from Point Glorious lookout. Abseiling is done from the rocks here. I have based my story around consequences from an abseiling, rock climbing accident. Meanwhile enjoy the views. No drought here...

Warning: This is a 7MB movie. Sorry if you don't have broadband.

Now, here are the ones I promised some of you...

Tragedy, fiction and reality

2008-01-21T15:18:00.000+10:00

Okay, now I am feeling pretty terrible. The tragedy my heroine has to deal with has just happened for real. Close to where I live, a young woman fell to her death during a climbing accident. Of course in my story the victim was a male. The situation sounds very similar to what I conceived in my head (well, with the help of my rock-climbing instructor son).

The Sunshine Coast Daily reported the news on its website - the original article can be found here.

It was a news article that ignited my first thoughts for my first manuscript. A group of climbers got into difficulty in the Blue Mountains in New South Wales in Australia. I researched the topic and found many instances where accidents occurred, similarly to the one mentioned here. I figured where there was a group of young people on adventure there was bound to be a love interest. Then the 'what ifs' started happening. And my story was born.

While the loss of a loved one is a sad thing in real life, don't forget the power of a tragedy to build emotion, action or progress the plot in a work of fiction.

Regards Annie

Making something from nothing

2008-01-16T11:17:00.000+10:00

Here's a pic of my frangipani in flower. Just a year ago I was given two lovely pots as a gift. I wanted to put something special in them and checked out the stock at the local plant nursery. I decided I could achieve the look I wanted by raiding my own garden. What you see here is the result.
What you can't see is the determination to make something from nothing. To use what was in front of me, taking some effort to plant the thing, water it and watch it grow. Funny thing about frangipani is that it may look like it's growing, then all of a sudden it has used up the sap within the branches and struggles to survive. I've got to say I thought this one was going to die. After waiting a LONG time, along with a commitment to keep watering while it looked dead, I started to see some signs of life. Now I am enjoying its reward.
Not sure if you've picked it yet (excuse the pun), but this whole process can be juxtaposed with the writing process. It takes a lot of hard work, patience and a commitment to nurture the gift within, even as it struggles for life.
We must take something which only exists as a thought and put the ideas down on paper, make them coherent, throw in some complications, resolve the issues and with any good fortune, it will be entertaining. But then even when the words are already on the page, we need to prune it by editing, plant it by targeting it where it will flourish, water it by networking and marketing and learning more about our craft, and then wait for signs of life!! Hopefully one day we will all reap the reward of our labors.
Annie

Effervescent personalities

2008-01-09T19:12:00.000+10:00

An Inside Sport magazine article has broached on the topic of personality on the tennis court, saying there was a complete lack of effervescent personalities.
Do your characters have effervescent personalities? It is an interesting question. If they don't, then what kind of appeal do they have?
A personality profile is one of the first things I fill in around the skeleton of my new characters. Not everyone can be that "effervescent" person but it is important to give your story real personalities. I recently read a sentence during a critique that seemed totally out of character for this particular character in the story. By compiling the personality profile, the writer is able to regularly check to make sure real personalities are being portrayed.
Of course, the alpha male, in my opinion is totally unreal but that's another topic.
How do you make your characters appear real or true to their personalities? Do you do a profile or just model them after 'real people' you know?
Regards
Annie

Invincible summer

2008-01-01T12:12:00.000+10:00

Greetings all. Happy New Year.
Although the Christmas holidays weren't really kind to our family, there were no disasters or tragedies. Even in the hard times, glimmers of hope often emerge to bring a smile to our face or joy to our hearts. I cling to those and look forward to more of them in 2008.
The new year gives us a time of retrospect, to look back but also look forward. What are you looking forward to? Soren Kierkegaard's quote about living life forward but understanding it backwards, caught my eye this week. Don't you wish you had hindsight today! If only we knew then what we know now. How differently would we act or react or make decisions. If only we had hindsight sooner. But then that would deter from the experience of life itself.
Albert Camus wrote "In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer". Some times we must dig deep to find that invincible summer but it is always there. Never lose touch with it. If you don't know what your invincible summer is, I really hope you find it in 2008.
Your life's destiny dwells there.
Annie

Family time of year

2007-12-17T20:21:00.000+10:00

One of my brother's lovely shots

Hello, to all my friends in cyberspace. I hope this festive season isn't causing too much stress for you.
My brother has returned home, my 50th birthday party was held on Saturday night (it was a hoot) and just when I thought life would settle down before the Christmas day food binge, more changes are in the air.
My son and his fiance and three little ones under four, are moving in indefinitely. My other son and his wife are already here for three months and my daughter and her hubby come regularly for weekends and holidays. Just as well the renovating is almost finished!
As family is number one in my life, I shall be putting all other priorities after them. So writing and critiquing will have to take a back seat for a while. Maybe my TBR pile of books will get some attention, as a good read is easier to fit into smaller time frames than using my own brain!!
Just in case I don't get another chance, I would like to wish you all God's grace and peace during this special time of year. May His blessings and prosperity reign over you through the new year and I pray you find the reason for the season.
Bless you heaps, Annie

Holiday mode, learning new things

2007-12-11T18:22:00.000+10:00

Hi all,
Here is a beautiful shot of our favorite place where we live.
I am in holiday mode at the moment. My brother is visiting and we are doing the 'tourist thing'. The main past-time is photography as he has just purchased a new camera and having lots of fun figuring out the settings.
It reminds me of when I started writing. I knew all the basics, so I thought, but when I started learning more, I realized just how much I didn't know in the beginning. Whatever new avenues we open ourselves up for in life, there is always more to learn.
My dear friend who passed away this year said, gaining new knowledge is never wasted. How true this is.
It doesn't matter how old we are, we should always endeavor to learn new things, discover new places, plunge into new adventures, and let's not forget to make new friends in the process. Being outward focused, not inward centered will lead to an exciting year ahead.
Regards Annie

My life from A to Z

2007-12-06T22:38:00.000+10:00

My online friend Patricia did this on her blog so I am copying the idea. I have changed some things coz I am not into them or don't know what they are, here down under!!

Click on my title to go to Patricia's blog entry

A - Age: 50 (soon)

B - Best Friend: Colleen & Vicki

C - Choice of Meat: Beef, rump

D - Dream Date: Hubby & I had an amazing 6 week date in 06. Every day was like a dream date. From the intimate dinner watching the lights of the Colosseum illuminate at night, to Venice (no place like it for romantic atmosphere) to the Eiffel Tower laser light show in his arms while standing over the river Seine, to crowded Irish pubs. I could rave forever, and probably will!!!!

E - Exciting Adventure: Apart from the above trip of a lifetime, I’d have to say for adventure it was climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

F - Favorite Food: I love chicken curry and smoked salmon, when I dine out, I usually order one of those two. If I am on a diet which is most of the time, then its Greek salad.

G - Greatest Accomplishment: Starting university at 44 years of age. Finishing with a double major.

H - Happiest Day of Your Life: My wedding day, but there is always something special about watching your children commit their lives to their life-partners too.

I - Interests: Reading and writing, photography, surfing the net (on it you can travel anywhere in the universe, that's pretty cool.

J - Joke: That would be me, the joker!!

K – Koalas or Kittens: I’m allergic to cats, so I would have to say Koalas.

L - Love: John 3 16 or in the words of a song lyric, ‘what the world needs now, is love sweet love, it’s the only thing that there’s just too little of’

M - Most Valued Possession: My wedding ring. After 25 years of marriage I had my wedding and engagement rings remodelled. It is gorgeous. Always was, still is.

N - Name: Ann but my girlfriends call me Annie, so I write as Annie because I would like all my readers to think of me as a girlfriend (the female ones anyway)

O - Outfit You Love: I love longer line Tshirts to wear around the house, or sleep in but don’t have one ATM because I don’t like them saggy baggy with big sleeves either. Hard to come by.

P - Pizza Toppings: Garlic and olive supreme

Q - Question Asked To You the Most: Have you got a job yet?

R – Results or relationships: I like to see results for my efforts, but on the whole I am a relationships person. Life is full of them.

S - Sport: Australian rugby league football, watching not playing LOL

T - Television Show: Other than the footie telecasts, Enough Rope with Andrew Denton

U - Umbrella in the rain?: It doesn’t rain much where I live. Just enough for it to be lush but not overdone!! So gotta say on the whole – nope.

V - Video: How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days, Serendipity, and an older one Shining Through, oh and The Thomas Crown Affair with Rene Russo and Pierce Brosnan. AND All romances, old or latest releases!!!

W - Winter: It is lovely here in winter, only crisp days (not too cold) and often beautiful clear blue skies. This is the winter haven for Aussies to holiday!

X - X-rays recently?: No. Though I did have a brain scan once, and yes I do have one!!!

Y - Year Born: 1957

Z – Zoo animal: chimpanzee, coz he’s always funny and he’s always doing something

Tautologies and RAS syndrome

2007-12-03T15:06:00.000+10:00

Are we afflicted with RAS? What is it you may well ask?

RAS syndrome is, as Wikipedia explains, a repetition of one of the words making up an acronym. The most common uses are ATM machine, HIV virus and PIN number.

Wikipedia says the Redundant Acronym Syndrome syndrome, “is itself a humorous example of a redundant acronym”.

Which brings me to tautologies. For those who don’t know what a rhetorical tautology is, let’s ask Wikipedia again. It says it is the unnecessary and often unintentional repetitive use of words or meanings that, in effect, mean exactly the same thing. Exactly is the same. So, I need only have written their meaning is exact or their meaning is the same. To use both was a redundant use of words. A free gift, is another example. Though sometimes it is written to emphasize that the gift has no expectations with it, as opposed to say, a gift with purchase.

As I see this happening in many of the critiques I’m doing at the moment, I thought I would write about it here. Forgive me, crit partners, but I will mention a few, to give you an idea of how easily they can sneak in to our manuscripts.

He hesitated answering a moment.

I sucked it up, taking a deep breath.

At a loss for words, I said nothing.

Do you have any questions, class?

LOL Annie

Recorders of Paradigm Shifts

2007-11-29T07:49:00.000+10:00

Emma Darcy wrote "Romance itself never changes...passions are eternal. The value systems that give rise to conflicts do change."
Without conflict in a novel, it would be a very boring read and, I imagine, the reader would put it down before finishing it. As value systems change, and they are changing at an amazing rate, there is opportunity to grasp the conflicts created therein.
As writers/authors it might not be a bad idea to be on the alert to these changing value systems, or as we call them now, paradigm shifts, and include them in our plots. Emma Darcy says the change in value systems in modern times are recorded in category romance fiction. Now, there's a thought. We are recorders of modern paradigm shifts!
But there is a warning here too. Emma says that we should move and adjust our writing to these changes in order to stay modern. Aah, the challenges of being a contemporary writer.
I would be interested to hear what you think on this topic.
Regards Annie

Where I Live

2007-11-26T10:11:00.001+10:00

I am not getting much work done on this manuscript of mine. It seems I have some flaws needing my urgent attention. One of the pitfalls of being a 'new' writer is this first manuscript is suffering multiple edit syndrome! Poor thing. Hope it isn't fatal!

Wanted to share this photo I took yesterday afternoon, during one of our strolls to check out the beach and sunset. Oh, no sunset? Okay, here it is...

My, but we do love living where we do!
Regards Annie

Imagination and story concepts

2007-11-21T09:59:00.000+10:00

There has been some chat on other sites about where story ideas come from. While many of us get an inspiration, as I’ve spoken about before, what happens if it just doesn’t come.

I would like to share with you how I came to write my newly completed manuscript.

I had stored a copy, on computer, of a newspaper article about an accident in a rugged part of the Australian landscape. It was an interesting topic, might be developed later. It involved a group of 20 yr-olds out seeking adventure. When I came to write a story, I thought, surely in this group of young people there could have been a love interest. It all developed from there. The news article spurred research into similar accidents. The activity, accident, and outcomes all changed by the time I wrote my story. The setting for the heroine was actually a component of one of my uni courses. A PR hospitality business and publicity plan. I had already developed the concept, of the B&B idea for that purpose, so changed it slightly for some of the settings in my story. A friend of mine has hair like my heroine, some life experiences fill in gaps. It all helps.

The old ‘what if’ scenario comes into play for me a lot. What if this happened, what if he reacted like this… and so it goes on. There are no limits with fiction. The only limit is our imagination. And like Anna Jacobs says “I think the imagination is like a muscle: the more you use it, the stronger it grows - and the more ideas it throws out.”

So go ahead people, use it.

Annie

Emotions, set the pace

2007-11-16T12:03:00.000+10:00

I listened to an audio this week from published author, Cher Gorman who said, 'The key to great pacing, in whatever genre, is the emotional component.' She said if there is something emotionally important in the scene, it moves the story quicker. In all scenes with an emotional component, the story flies. I agree with her, do you?

Another quote I heard this week was from John Mayer during one of his concerts. He was talking about blues and whether you get that blues music stirs you. He said 'if you are human, you get it'. Does he mean, blues music has an emotional component? Well, I think all music does to a certain degree, but yes, I do agree that blues stirs the emotional component within me.

During the Gorman audio, even though I am not into her erotic category within the romance genre, I received insight about engaging the senses and even more so, that emotions will invoke a response from the reader. Hopefully, when masterfully written, readers will say 'I get it'. It is that age old saying in writers circles of showing not telling. And if shown correctly, the emotions and senses are used to portray what the author feels for their characters.

I'd be interested to hear from you...Regards Annie

Cricket and Romance: Are there similarities or not?

2007-11-10T22:28:00.000+10:00

If you cannot think how it is possible that cricket and romance can have a connection I suggest you check out Romance Bandit's blog. To go there (after you finish reading my blog, of course) simply click on this heading - Cricket and Romance to take you to Romance Bandit's blog. It
s a very interesting entry by Anna Campbell and Keira.
I've left a comment, so why don't you go check it out and leave a comment too. Besides having your say, you could also win a prize.
Regards Annie

Inspiration

2007-11-07T08:58:00.000+10:00

I am interested to know how and when you have that 'penny has dropped' inspiring moment for a story scene, plot or even a particular character who may turn out to be pivotal in your next manuscript.
I often find when I first wake in the morning I have clarity for ideas. Often one will just dominate all others. Sometimes a section of the plot will make sense when discussing it with a peer. At other times it takes a lot of research before the next page can be turned.
What does it for you? Music, your favorite 'serenity spot' or just head down and research, research. Or like one of my writing friends, do those characters live so much in your head that they speak to you until you let them out?
Let me know
Regards Annie

2007-11-02T18:46:00.000+10:00

One of my favorite spots on the planet. Moon rise on the beach. I took this photo about a year ago. Hope you like it. Regards Annie

Editing within an inch of its life

2007-10-30T13:04:00.000+10:00

At the moment I am editing. I like what some say the result is-edited to within an inch of its life. I always chuckle when I hear that statement. But oh how true it needs to be. Fine tuning is a necessity for many facets of life. Take the accomplished musician. They tune until that instrument is perfect pitch. One slight deviation and the performance is off.
Our manuscripts should be like that. Though I am getting thoroughly sick of mine now.
Remember as a child cutting out those dolls from a sheet of paper with umpteen folds? One wrong move and the chain of dolls was broken. No more dancing dollies!! Just shattered pieces and a major reconstruction or start over to bring the desired outcome.
I seriously hope I don't cut an important chain and ruin what I started. Paranoia is setting in!!
Regards Annie

Truth stranger than fiction

2007-10-24T19:57:00.000+10:00

Isn't it amazing when you least expect it, up pops an idea for a novel or story. Right out of the blue! Well this discussion is about truth and fiction.
This week I heard a romance story that would make my hair curl-and that usually takes a lot. It had tension, yearning desire, forbidden love and spanned generations. It did end with a satisfactory resolution to cap it all off. What more could anyone ask for? It just happens to be a true story, and I am not into writing memoirs, yet anyway.
So can I use some elements of this true love story in my next novel? Well, I guess, as readers you will never know the truth behind the answer to that question because where does truth stop and fiction begin?
I know as one observant people-watcher, I often use an eclectic mix of people I know, those in my head and even those I see but don't know for my characters in my stories . Even settings have been jumbled or contrived from reality to accommodate the story to greatest benefit.
I'd be interested to know how others handle the mix between truth and fiction in their story-telling.
For my latest manuscript I envisioned a beautiful waterfall as part of my setting. I even knew which one I would use from my actual teenage memories. Trouble was, when I went as part of a family outing to photograph it for inspiration, it wasn't there. I don't know where I stored that memory from but the recall didn't produce accurate details. I know what I imagined I saw but couldn't find the reality.
Never mind, my imagination is more fun anyway. How's yours?
Regards
Annie

Plotting

2007-10-19T17:59:00.000+10:00

Just wanted to respond here on the main page to Suzy's question about plotting. And you knew I would have to answer that open question hah?
I like to plan my timeline with spreadsheets. One event per cell, then I can rearrange them by copy and paste etc. I often use this for a tricky scenes where I want the timing exact (well shouldn't they all) but sometimes you need to see it in black and white.
Re plotting in tables - this is where I do most of my work with plots. I start by putting in the characters and their personality/profiles interview results or important relationships next to them. Then I will do a separate one for my outline. I use this for the duration of writing my novel. I put chapters down left hand side, next column is for headline for that chapter eg Sarah intro and the POV used (in this case Sarah POV), the next column I put each main detail for that chapter on separate lines, next I have my wordcount which I add to as I proceed. In the extended details I can rearrange to suit as I feel the story changes as it sometimes does. Main thing is I put the conflict here and bold it. So I can see at a glance where my weaker chapters are. Of course also I can add or subtract a chapter's details POV by inserting columns or rows whatever. It also helps with synopsis and that dreaded fear of what do I write next. The outline give you an idea of when to say what!!!
I was interested to see Jenny Crusie's theory of sectioning novels into four with main conflict in each section. I can see this would translate nicely into the way I plot too.
I am keen to hear how others do their planning if they aren't pansters of course!
I also use a spreadsheet to keep track of my word count. I especially use this during BIAW but also for my novel. Can you tell I like it organised??
Regards Annie

Next step

2007-10-18T21:58:00.000+10:00

I have been trying to plot manuscript # 2 and wanted to continue with the story form my 1st manuscript. Now I am having second thoughts. It seems very time consuming and conflict constricting to use characters from a previous ms. Double mindedness! I always have trouble with it. And I also don't like to start something until I know I can finish it. So I will plot (in my head first then using tables and spreadsheets) 'till the cows come home'.
Today is our 32nd wedding anniversary. Wow! It really doesn't seem that long. In the words of a friend of mine - 'that's 2 life sentences!' Well I guess that there are two lives involved. But while good times, hassles, joys, sadness, riches, poverty, sickness, health and all those things covered by the vows do occur - sometimes love prevails.
Take the time to discover it... However you can.
Annie

The challenge ahead

2007-10-16T08:34:00.000+10:00

Many of my writing friends are challenging themselves in November with NaNoWriMo which I fully support them in their endeavors. They are putting their hands up and saying 'I am committing to this' and I would love to join them. But I am giving in to the external pressures in my life at the moment, namely, renovations.
Our entire house has been turned upside down-literally. We are ripping up floor tiles. Jackhammers, dust and noise-and an over-abundance of all. Just when I thought the dust would settle, along comes another project-sanding timber stairs and benches. Different tool, same affect-dust.
Also in November we have our son's engagement party here in our home and I am catering for this exciting event. November sees some overseas visitors coming to stay for several weeks and then my other son and his wife come for the annual 'after uni holidays'. I really hope at least some of the renovating is complete by then.
I am between manuscripts now and having finished my first I now see there is another story in there that should be written which precedes it. I have already developed the new hero and heroine character profiles so I might run with their romance. Amid all the dust, a plot is building-I hope! When I have a spare moment, I whip out my laptop and jot a few things down or research a topic I think will develop it further. Not all writing is words on a page.
So for me, my November challenge will be to have my plot plotted! If you aren't doing NaNoWriMo what are you challenging yourself to do to advance your writing?
Annie

Venice

2007-10-13T15:12:00.000+10:00

Thanks to Eva for raising the question about the photo above. It is indeed Venice. In fact it is sunrise in all its intricate glory. I had to lighten the photo so you could see the buildings more clearly. But it does bring back wonderful memories of our visit there last year. This was, in fact, how Venice said goodbye to us. We left shortly afterwards on the early morning train headed for Salzburg. We traveled there via Villach and the six-hour trip was sensational and more than DH and I could have expected a train journey through the alps could be. Austria is beautiful. But oh, I do love Italy. And what's not to love about Venice.
The highlight for me was the gondoliers serenade as they passed by our window each evening. Naturally I figured they were singing to me not their passengers. The atmosphere-Magic!
Oh, and yes, I did get to experience my own gondola ride.
Very romantic!

Using the senses

2007-10-12T09:41:00.000+10:00

Sparked by my critique group's monthly exercise, I recall a time at high school when we were asked to write a piece using our senses. In order to do this more successfully we had to blind-fold each other and describe what we encountered. I have never forgotten this experience. It forced me to 'look' at things in a totally different way.
One of my childhood influencers was a blind lady. She taught me to knit using two colors. Still to this day I don't know how she did it. She would say the cotton felt different. It was the same brand, same ply, same labels but she could still tell when she was using pink and not blue.
I have always thought there was a particular type of personality who likes to touch and feel. You know her. She's the lady who enters the boutique and immediately grabs to feel the material. She doesn't respond to color or patterns but will purchase on the feel of the material or how the garment makes her feel when she puts it on. (Yes I used to work in a ladies-wear boutique)
Well now I apply these types of sensory awareness situations to my writing. And yes, I am one of those touchy, feely type of people. So I guess that helps.
If you have trouble with putting the other senses to work in your writing, try the old exercise above. Blindfold yourself and spend some time listening, tasting, feeling and smelling or even sixth sensing. There is a spiritual world out there. Let's not forget about that one.
You will be amazed at those other worlds that exist.