From the Desk of Ashley Ludwig

change of address!

2009-04-08T20:11:00.000-07:00

We're moving!

Please visit:

www.ashleyludwig.com

For more Words of Inspiration and Romance...

And for your reading pleasure, pick up an e-read: By Another Name - Available after April 11, 2009 - at White Rose Publishing.

~Ashley

Visit the Site: How to Critique and Be Critiqued

2009-03-17T10:20:00.000-07:00

Come over to the site, and read up on how to be critiqued and critique others. When to use a precision instrument on another writer's work, and when to just "rub some dirt on it" as my hubby would say.

Critiquing others is a skill. Accepting the criticism of your peers is another skill entirely.

Visit: http://ashleyludwig.wordpress.com to learn how to handle both!

For more information on how to be an excellent critique partner, read up here!

A TISKET A TASKET, PUT ROMANCE IN YOUR BASKET

2009-03-11T20:04:00.000-07:00

Spring is in the air! Bees are buzzing. Children anxiously await the big morning where they can graze on candy all day. What about mom? We've got a treat for you! Come join a group of romance authors in celebration of spring. Enter to win a prize a day as well as enter to win the grand prize. All you need do is begin at Silver James' blog on April 1st at http://www.silverjames.com/.

Silver will host the day's contest and provide the link to the next day's location. Don't forget to enter to win the grand prize! Here's the dirt... A TISKET A TISKET, PUT ROMANCE IN YOUR BASKET Grand Prize:

To enter to win prizes from the authors donating treasures to the grand prize (see each day's post for what an author is donating to the grand prize), find the four Easter eggs in the A TISKET A TISKET, PUT ROMANCE IN YOUR BASKET blog event.

You will be searching for the above egg. Just visit all of the authors' websites, locate the 4 eggs, make a list of their locations by pasting the urls to the website pages in an e-mail, then send the entry to happyendings2007@aol.com by midnight CST on March 1st, 2009.

The winner will be randomly drawn and announced March 2nd at http://blog.skhyemoncrief.com/.

Tip #1, subscribe to http://blog.skhyemoncrief.com/ to learn if you're the winner! And don't worry. If you start in on the blog event late, just head back to Silver James' blog on April 1st at http://www.silverjames.com/ to begin your website search for the Easter eggs. Don't miss the fun! See you next to the burgundy tulips!

100 posts - and a change

2009-03-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

Good morning, everyone! well, we made it to 100 posts here at this blogger site.

Please visit my new blog site: http://ashleyludwig.wordpress.com

Still words of inspiration on my journey, but moreso - it is a place where I can display my titles as they are coming available for print!

Please pop on over to see what's going on...

Ashley

All or Nothing - The Trailer!!

2009-03-06T17:14:00.000-08:00

All or Nothing's trailer has released today...

Pop on over and take a peek!

Many blessings to you all for a wonderful weekend!

~Ashley

What is The One Flaw In Women?

2009-03-05T06:28:00.000-08:00

This was an e-mail forward that bore repeating... to my friends - both near and far - remember how special you are.

By the time the Lord made woman,
He was into his sixth day of working overtime.
An angel appeared and said,
'Why are you spending so much time on this one?'

And the Lord answered,
'Have you seen my spec sheet on her?
She has to be completely washable, but not plastic,
have over 200 movable parts, all replaceable
and able to run on coffee and leftovers,
have a lap that can hold four children at one time,
have a kiss that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart-and she will do everythingwith only two hands.'

The angel was astounded at the requirements.
'Only two hands!? No way!
And that's just on the standard model?
That's too much work for one day.Wait until tomorrow to finish.

''But I won't, ' the Lord protested. 'I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my own heart.
She already heals herself when she is sick
AND can work 18 hour days.'

The angel moved closer and touched the woman.
'But you have made her so soft, Lord.'

'She is soft,' the Lord agreed,'
but I have also made her tough.You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish.'

'Will she be able to think?', asked the angel.

The Lord replied,'Not only will she be able to think,
she will be able to reason and negotiate.'

The angel then noticed something,
and reaching out, touched the woman's cheek.
'Oops, it looks like you have a leak in this model.
I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one.'

'That's not a leak,'the Lord corrected,'that's a tear!'

'What's the tear for?' the angel asked.

The Lord said, 'The tear is her way of expressing her joy, her sorrow, her pain, her disappointment, her love,her loneliness, her grief and her pride.'

The angel was impressed.
'You are a genius, Lord.You thought of everything!
Woman is truly amazing.'

And she is!
Women have strengths that amaze men.
They bear hardships and they carry burdens,
but they hold happiness, love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy;
and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take 'no' for an answer
when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel
and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear abouta birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member,
yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss
can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you
to show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideals.
They give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give
HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE TINY FLAW IN WOMEN,
IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.

PLEASE take a moment today to remind your women friends and relatives just how amazing they are.

Love, Ashley

Blogging today at White Roses in Bloom

2009-03-04T06:40:00.001-08:00

Good morning, everyone! come over and join me at White Roses in Bloom!

Look forward to seeing you there...

~Ashley

Why do I Blog?

2009-02-27T16:09:00.000-08:00

I was asked today at work - of all things - what is the purpose of a blog. That got me thinking... because--as you know--I love to blog. It's my journal. It's my way of keeping in contact with people who have similar likes and interests (such as you all!), and of course, it's a way of sharing triumphs and tragedies, and contemplating this fast paced world we live in. Things change by the minute around here. Okay. Sometimes, even by the second.

Blogs are a great way to stay connected. Add a follower, or two, and you have people who are pinged when you post something new! If you have a contest, people can participate by the tens, twenties, and even hundreds! If you keep up with the latest technologies, it's a great place to pool resources, and find out if other folks can rate a product (see e-reader posts), or e-book Applications to see what we're all talking about. We keep up with predators and editors, and congratulate one another on a job well done.

Most of my readers are either small press authors, e-book authors, mothers, friends, family, or all of the above. Perhaps even a co-worker or two. I cherish each and every comment, and do my best to respond to every one. It's how we roll. Blogging is just a natural part of my thought process, much as FaceBook has become part of my social life. (See my husband shake his head, in his inability to understand my need for online interaction).

I'm an odd case. I work remotely, for a company in New Jersey. I keep odd hours, as I'm a full time working mother, so my writing time comes in the late evening and early morning. When asked, I'm sure most don't understand - but my husband can attest to my idiosincracies. He always knows when I'm deep in edits or writing, as the house descends into utter chaos!

So, why add blogging on top of all that? Because of you. So, thanks for stopping by. Leave a comment, and I'll answer. :) Have a wonderful weekend.

Love Story

2009-02-21T09:07:00.000-08:00

Taylor Swift wrote the epitome of a love story in but a few minutes. I was wondering this morning what it is about the song that chokes me up so. Is it watching my 5 year old daughter clasp her hands under her chin, staring dreamy eyed at the prospect of a princess and prince finding each other? Is it watching their dad dance around the room, uninhibited and singing with his little girls? Is it hearing Ellie's rich, little girl voice belting out "Romeo, Save me! I've been feeying so ayone!"

I think it must be all of the above. The romance novelist inside is in awe of such a succinct story - with the pitfalls, heartbreak, and ultimate unabashed joy at the h/h finding their true love. The mommy in me sees the girls as budding romantics. The wife in me only has eyes for her own Romeo, turned amazing dad.

If you haven't seen it, you must. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wRkoGKQ8qQ

Have a wonderful Saturday!

Hearing Voices at MamaWriters.com - 2-17-2009

2009-02-16T14:23:00.000-08:00

Happy President's Day, everyone! I'm enjoying a day off from just about everything. Laundry. Dishes. Work. Parenting. (What?!) Yes, the girls are playing over with their best friends this week -- delighted to leave the house! And, frankly, it's been pretty peaceful. So, maybe that's why I opened myself to the challenge at hand. What to blog about tomorrow.

Many of you know I'm blogging with www.mamawriters.com -- a site of women, mothers of kids young and grown, who are making a living doing what they are called to do: Write fiction -- romantic, inspirational, and *blush* other sorts.

I'm honored that tomorrow is my day (February 17, 2009) -- so come on over and let's chat about our favorite books, authors, and that elusive, ethereal concept of a Writer's Voice.

What is that, you say? Come on over to mamawriters.com and we'll talk about it!

Look forward to seeing you there!

~Ashley

The Most Romantic Husband Award...

2009-02-12T07:47:00.000-08:00

A quick note to recognize my DH as the Most Romantic Husband in Temecula. (Feel free to nominate yours as a comment to this blog!)

Yesterday afternoon, the phone rang. Frazzled, I answered in what Perry calls my "business mode."

I could almost hear him grinning. "What are you doing at 4:00 today?"

"Getting ready to get the kids." I quipped back.

"Let me get the kids today. Why don't you go on over to South Coast Winery, and have an hour-long massage."

(This is where you hear dead silence from my end of the phone.) Was I dreaming? Did those words just come out of MY husband's mouth? Mr. Penny Pincher? Mr. I Don't Even Want To Discuss Buying Anything Right Now? Mr. Rolls His Eyes Every Time I Mention Things I Want To Do To The House?

The answer, dear readers, is yes. He sent me to South Coast Winery for a full body, rose petal massage, to be finished off with -- get this -- toes curl just thinking about it... Sparkling wine and chocolate dipped strawberries!

So, taking a few minutes to throw dinner in the crockpot (sure I'd return home to crying children and a hungry husband), I wrote a quick note not to expect me for dinner), I set off for Temecula Wine Country and an evening of decadence.

South Coast becons like a Disneyland for adults. It's tall spire reaching to a SoCal blue sky, feathered with bright white clouds. Arbors reach their welcoming arms out, dripping with flowering geraniums. The low, stone wall seperates this from the rest of the wineries. Individual villas house lovers, away on private trysts in this wine-lover's paradise.

The spa, set back from a crystal clear pool, waterfall, and bubbling jaccuzi, greets you in its warmth. Classical music wafts from hidden speakers. The staff speaks in low tones, gentle, inviting. And, once you find yourself wrapped in a delightful, ankle length, chennile robe--you have the option of dipping into a private spa, immersing yourself in a steam bath, or retreating to the lounge to await your appointment. I chose the latter, dragging my volume of Twilight along, for the bliss of an uninterrupted half-hour of reading.

Soon, I found a glass of Syrah in my hand, and joined Bella for some quality evaluation time of Edward and her other new classmates. Then, it was my turn for an hour of nothing but breathing. Inhaling rose peta aromatherapy while my masseuse worked out the kinks of five years of parenting from my shoulders, back, arms, legs, hands, and feet. *sigh*

When all was finished, and I lay like a pile of rosy goo, my masseuse informed me that there was a special treat waiting for me in the lounge. After redressing (that robe like silk on my warmed skin), she greeted me with my decadent snack. Thickly dipped strawberries, surrounded by raw sugar, and a lovely brut sparkling wine.

The sun painted Mt. Palomar's snow covered slope with umbers, fuscia, and amethyst. The observatory gleamed brilliant white. I sighed into the sofa, not even with the slightest desire to see if Bella and Edward had exchanged words. Instead, I spoke softly with a lovely couple from Missouri--sharing tidbits about Temecula, the new home of my heart. When the sweet lady smiled and said, "Wow. You get to live here!"

I tilted my head in wonder. Yes. I do. I get to live HERE. With my fantastic husband -- who gives me romance enough to keep wanting to write about it! two rambunctious daughters, and a circle of closely knit friends. I'm grateful. I'm happy. I love my life and thank the good Lord for His many blessings.

I won't go on about the state of the house when I got home. Who cares! Or the strain on my husband's face as he offered to take the girls to go visit friends for a bit. I smiled, kissed him deeply, and put the big kabosh on that idea. The massage was a lovely getaway, but I happily shuttled my girls upstairs and got them ready for bed. We curled up and watched American Idol as a family.

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!

Kindle Part Deux - Kindle 2 Makes An Appearance

2009-02-10T06:41:00.000-08:00

Well, Amazon has answered the criticism of its device... which might be the reason it's been so difficult to find a Kindle in these parts. Kindle 2 is on the scene. It's leaner, faster, pencil thin, and sleek. The advertisment shows a Kindle Savvy reader sitting with her $375 device on the beach.

Let me say that again. The advertisement shows a Kindle Reader SITTING ON THE BEACH, reading her Kindle quite happily.

Here's what you don't see. You don't see her kids filling her beach bag with sand. You don't see them pouring a bucket of sea water on her unsuspecting, romance reading head, and running off to merrily gather shells.

What I mean is simply this. The paperback novel is perfect in its design, but perhaps not perfect for our green-thinking. It's highly portable, completely disposable (though I keep my favorite dog-eared, sun-stained, water-warped, sandy copies on my shelf). Okay. Read that again.

Highly Portable. Pencil thin, light, with an available cover for $30.00. (I'm on my way to buying one with my Amazon One Click right now!)
Dog eared. Kindle can bookmark pages and favorite passages. (That's a good thing. A pre-order is still looking good.)
Sun-stained. With the special e-ink or whatever they're calling it now, reading in the sun shouldn't pose a problem and might even be easier on the eyes than the white-hot sun reflecting off pages. Hmm. Can one read at night without an itty bitty booklight? Gotta go back and see.)
Water-warped. Hmm. That's where I freak out, and leave the poor thing in my shopping cart wish list. I wish I could break down and buy one. This gadget girl is DESPERATE to own an e-book reader. BUT, I don't think I'd bring my Kindle to the pool. How can I swim around our community pool, wondering, worrying if my $300+ device is going to be swiped from my stuff?! But even if I can find the zen state I need to reach to free myself from that worry, what about water damage? Did any of you see the Michael Phelps commercials from ESPN last year? They were hysterical...I'll find one for you to watch. Hang on. Just watch, and you'll see my point.
Finally, this. Sandy...I know I wouldn't shove it in my sandy beach bag, the bottom littered with broken shells, fistfulls of sand, and last year's unfinished Stephanie Plum novel.

I would travel with it in the car, on a plane, or to a waiting room. I would attach an itty bitty booklight to it and read into the night while my DH snores away. I do want one, just for the cool factor.

I still feel like Roger Rabbit, trying not to do the "Two Bits" part of "Shave and a haircut..."

The question remains. Is it the right thing to do, right now?! Please, help me out!

Congratulations to The Wild Rose Press!

2009-02-08T07:54:00.000-08:00

I have to give a HUGE whoop & holler to my publisher, The Wild Rose Press.

There is a group that many of us writers know about. It's called Predators and Editors - and is a wealth of information (of the "warts & all" variety) for anyone who is looking for an agent, publisher, and/or editor. And this week, it was announced that The Wild Rose Press WON a coveted P&E award as BEST PUBLISHER!!!

Let's face it. Our books are our babies. We spend every waking moment thinking about them, planning for them, figuring out the traits of our characters, naming them (something that was described in detail last week on www.mamawriters.com) - and when it comes time to let them leave the nest & fly, this is one of the first places a new writer should look.

When I was looking for All or Nothing's home - I searched P&E looking for agents. Then I went through (okay, scoured) the Writer's Market, Publisher's Lunch, etc. in search of an agent. I had a few nibbles, but to be quite frank, the story was rough and needed some polish. It then sat on my desk, as I needed to find my hook. I wrote and rewrote the first few chapters again and again. Worked with the Temecula Writer's Group (HUGS) until it sparkled. But the agent route had left me cold. I joined Query Tracker. I put together some lists and almost started searching for an agent, again. Found one close, but I didn't have the proper initials in my name...(her current criteria for finding new authors?!)

But, at my "day job" I kept seeing new listings for titles of the same genre as All or Nothing. From, you guessed it! SO, I researched them on P&E and what did I find? "Predators & Editors is hearing good things about this publisher." Hmm. Go straight to a publisher? So, I read their submissions criteria, wrote a fantastic (writer's group approved) query letter, followed their guidelines to the LETTER, and submitted.

Within a week, they'd notified me my query was being sent to the Senior Editor of the Inspirational Romance line. Within a day or two, the Senior Editor requested the full MS. Within another week, I heard from my editor. If I was willing to roll up my sleeves and go to work, they were willing to send me a contract. WHAT!? A contract? Just like that? Suspicious and excited, I checked the circles. Searched message loops. Nothing I heard was negative, only positive. Could it be true?

I took the biggest leap of faith of my writing life, and agreed. I had a contract. All or Nothing had a home. I had an editor. My writer's group cheered me on! And suddenly, I felt like I could do anything. My editor gave me some pointers, and I went back to work. All of her guidance was gentle, leading, and encouraging. My screw ups became our projects. And my words suddenly gleamed with her polish. My fledgling story soon had the beautiful cover you can see, by Kimberlee Mendoza, with my name emblazoned on the cover. All writers know this in itself is a dream come true.

Creative fervor had me entering one of their contests, and thus, By Another Name was born - a winner in The Easter Lilies contest. Now - I'm working on two other submissions requests. Could I seek homes for these titles elsewhere? perhaps. But I tell you what I know about The Wild Rose Press. Rhonda and RJ care. When someone says something negative about them, she rolls up her sleeves to defend her editors, her cover artists, and her authors. They are family - spread out in a virtual office across the globe. Saying I'm glad to be planted in this garden is a given. I've learned more about writing in the past year than I ever have before.

Congragulations, The Wild Rose Press authors, as well as Rhonda & RJ! You deserve this, and all the accolades that go along with it.

Romancing February - First Crushes & True Love! Contest Winner!

2009-02-06T08:36:00.001-08:00

Thank you -- everyone -- for playing yesterday. We loved reading all of your entries, and everyone's take on true love. I enjoyed them all, and passed the posts on to my DH, who read each with careful precision.

He is announcing the winner - Emma Lai!

* I think he saw a bit of himself in your post, with the turning a blind eye to the number of books you buy! LOL

Congratulations! Please e-mail me - Emma, to receive your Preview Copy of By Another Name!

Check Back on 2/6/2009 - for the Romancing February - True Love - Contest Winner

2009-02-05T17:34:00.000-08:00

Read the blog below for some FABULOUS posts from the day! Click to view the new trailer!

The winner will be announced in the morning! Pacific Coast Time, that is! You have until Midnight Tonight to add your definition of True Love... I look forward to reading them all! and remember - Visit Once again... to "compete" in the Romancing February grand prize - a $75 gift certificate for The Wild Rose Press - please join our blog-hop, starting with the wonderful blog-talents of Amber Leigh Williams. Next stop: Nan Jacobs - for her Silver Fox Tales!

http://silverfoxtales.blogspot.com/

Remember to visit http://www.mamawriters.com/ - a new blog by writer mamas, for mama writers. It's all about the love...

Romancing February - First Crushes & True Love!

2009-02-05T06:47:00.000-08:00

Good morning, everyone! Let me pour a cup of coffee and tell you a funny story...Ah! Now, then.

As a little girl, I dreamed about who my true love would be. A hopeful romantic, science fiction fan, and want-to-be-author, I remember playing house with Han Solo as my husband at the ripe old age of 7. He was a tough act to follow.

When I was a bit older, my best friend Kymmie and I chased boys in the playground (subtle, huh?), practiced cooking in her mother's kitchen (mine would have died before she let us concoct such fare at my house!) and wondered what it would be like to grow up, get married, and have homes of our own.

Now, the mother of two little girls - I recently had the honor and horror of discovering my 4 - almost 5 year old has her first crush. First Crush? At almost 5?! I fell out of my chair. Specifically, I tipped off my perch on the bathroom counter as DD#1 splashed in the tub and told me she wanted to talk about boys, because SHE had a secret crush on a BOY! This sent her and her little sis into peals of laughter. Either at the concept of boys, or at the look on my face, I'm not sure which.

Boys?! okay. It's not like I didn't know it was coming. I just am not ready for it to come quite this soon. So, briefly closing my eyes and praying for the right words (a new habit of mine - knowing that God knows what the girls need to hear far more than I know what to tell them!)

"Sweetie?" I asked, voice low. "What does it mean to have a crush?"

"It means you whisper a lot." She laughed, continuing to splash around. "Oh! And that you always have someone to play tag with." Then, she began chanting her 'boyfriend's' name over and over again.

Watching my baby, in all of her innocence, my heart warmed. True love--brilliantly defined by a 5 year old--means having someone to whisper with, and always having a partner to play your favorite game.

Late in the night, I shared this with my DH as we lay in the dark, my head in the hollow of his shoulder. He is my true love. My someone who whispers with me. Laughs with me. Knows what I need him to say or do, before I realize I need it. And, as a bonus--he shares the day to day like a champ. He will always be my Valentine. Last year he stood in line last year for over an hour to get me my favorite See's candies -- and the best part is, he could care less what it does to my waist-line.

So - for the Romancing February prize of the day -Tell me what True Love means to YOU!

We'll review the answers, and my DH will help make the decision (Give him some good ideas, ladies!) The winner will receive a preview edition of my redemption-themed contemporary romance, "By Another Name" - Releasing April 11, 2009 from The Wild Rose Press.

Thanks for playing!

Once again... to "compete" in the Romancing February grand prize - a $75 gift certificate for The Wild Rose Press - please join our blog-hop, starting with the wonderful blog-talents of Amber Leigh Williams. Next stop: Nan Jacobs - for her Silver Fox Tales!

http://silverfoxtales.blogspot.com/

Remember to visit http://www.mamawriters.com/ - a new blog by writer mamas, for mama writers. It's all about the love...

The Art of Saying No

2009-02-04T09:49:00.001-08:00

Here's something I'm still attempting to master. As a mother and a writer, how do you say no...and mean it?

Visit MamaWriters.com - for my latest article, "The Art of Saying No"

I offer some suggestions on how to say NO when you've over-committed yourself in order to regain some quality YOU time -- and how to REALLY mean it.

I'm a firm believer that if you don't take care of yourself, you'll lose more than your sanity. You'll forget who you really are. As a writer, that can be of horrible detriment, and even deadly for your muse.

Today, I had to say NO to many things in order to care for my aching head, AND take care of two sick little girls. (Daddy played Mr. Mom yesterday...he's well, but I caught the flu!)

I'd be interested to hear how YOU say "No"... because at the moment, I have two little girls doing whatever they want so I can finish writing this post before going downstairs to make their snack! To their credit, they are illustrating some lovely cards for their daddy's birthday, spreading blank papers all over the floor of my office for their creations. I've said "NO" to my inner housekeeper, who insists on a tidy house. At least their entertained, but it never ends...

February - a contest, and a Pesky Ground Hog!

2009-02-02T08:24:00.000-08:00

It's February - the month of romance. And it's contest time again!

28 romance authors invite you to participate in a month-long event of love and laughter. Each day starting Feb. 1, 2009 an author will throw a romance party at her blog and host a contest with a prize. The link to the next day's blog location will also be provided at each location. Just drop by and enter the contest. And get ready to heat up the cold wintery days of February. You could win a prize a day!

Visit: http://www.amberleighwilliams.blogspot.com to join in!

Out here in sunny SoCal, it's already 70 on the back porch. Our tulips are reaching for the sun as it warms the valley through the morning mist. All is right with the universe.

And yet, Punxatawnee Phil declares 6 more weeks of winter?! How dare that little ground hog!

I refuse to give in. I've cleaned off the back patio and resurrected fountain! I cleaned out the dead leaves from around my budding geraniums. I spent my "me" time yesterday teaching my daughters how to deadhead the marigolds and replant the seeds. We rode bikes, drank beer, and watched my Arizona Cardinals put up a noble fight on Superbowl Sunday. The sun is shining, and yet, a cold front is moving in for the weekend.

So, what are we going to do if 6 more weeks of winter do come? I'll have to invest in frost cloth, because I started gardening too soon. I'll have to bring in the outdoor cushions - AGAIN! We'll have some more fires in the fireplace, hot cocoa and popcorn, and hunker down with some good old 80s/90s princess movies. This weekend, I think we're going for "Ever After" with Drew Barrymore. We might make one last trip to the snow up in Idyllwild and build a snowman, and watch my daughters laugh as they slide down snow-mountains, pink-cheeked, and frozen.

Regardless, it's Spring time for my soul, and spring-cleaning of my priorities is in order! And, rest well...I feel a story coming on...

Mama Writers Blog - Live Today!

2009-02-01T09:01:00.000-08:00

The Mama Writers Community is officially launched!

Come join the Mama Writers as they blog about writing romance, raising kids and everything in-between. Look for our special pages of mama tips, writing resources, forums, and more!

Meet the Mamas: Renee Knowles, Jeannie Ruesch, Kris Kennedy, Eliza Knight, Melissa Mayhue, Tiffany James, Stacy Dawn, Tina Gerow, Viola Estrella, Ashley Ludwig, Helen Hardt and Allie K. Adams.

Don't forget to leave a comment—with the launch of our new site we've got a fabulous and oh-so-perfect $50 Universal Spa gift card (can be used at over 5000 locations worldwide!!!) along with some Mama Writer's goodies!

In addition to the Mama Writers blogging daily, we have a spectacular line-up of weekly special guest authors—who also happen to be moms! Here's a sneak peek at who will be visiting with us: Roxanne St. Claire, Brenda Novak, Eloisa James, Allison Brennan, Monica McCarty, Jill Sorenson, Carrie Lofty, Delilah Marvelle, Christina Katzs, and many, many more.

Faith Bicknell-Brown kicks off the line-up on February 4th.

Don't miss out!

Raising Kids. Writing Romance.

It's all about the love.

www.mamawriters.com

Thoughts on a Saturday

2009-01-31T08:26:00.001-08:00

I've joined a new group of authors who are writers, mothers, fellow jugglers like myself - who are trying to do a bit of everything. We started as a support group, and after realizing how much we needed each other, we realized that we all blog- and by combining our efforts, we can share our experiences in the publishing world with all of you!

Case in point. This blog was just interrupted by serving breakfast, administering a dose of Claratin to fight an extremely runny nose and allergy cough, and breaking up a squabble that I think started because mommy was only loosely paying attention to the equal distribution of tinker toys!

When do we find time to write? Whenever we can. Now I have to go re-plan a backyard scheme to include my oldest daughter's birthday present...

Back again. What was I saying? Oh, right. Finding time. It's Saturday, at least. I overslept, otherwise I would have been writing at 5:00AM, like usual. Looks like I'll be up long after everyone's gone to bed editing my latest WIP (Work In Progress).

My New Year's Resolution was to be better organized with my time. When you're juggling family, work, writing, blogging, and now MARKETING (*argh!) something has to give. So, tomorrow I'll be planning out my posts for the month of February. So, dear reader, please let me know what you want to know about...

How to become a published author?
Waxing rhapsodic on romance as a genre, a past-time, or a way of life?
How to juggle a budding writing career?

Looking forward to hearing what you want to read...

Release Date!!

2009-01-22T17:10:00.000-08:00

Hey, everyone!

I have a release date for All or Nothing! September, 25, 2009 -- All or Nothing will be available in print and e-book format!

I'm too exhaustsed to be anything but relieved.

What's next? Marketing! Back to finishing my current projects, and research on my next historical WIP. Last but not least--A vacation--hopefully more than one before summer gets here!

Thank you, everyone, for your enduring support. I'm so grateful for each and every one of you.

All the best,

Ashley

How to Get What We Want

2009-01-22T07:43:00.000-08:00

I'm thinking this moring of the art of getting what you want. More to the point, how do little girls learn to get their way, or accept that they won't get their way, and change their tactics?

As I'm writing, I have my daughter curled up beside me, whining because she wants a puppy for her birthday. Her birthday - turning 5 - is becoming quite the event in her mind. She has plans, boy oh boy, and her party better not disappoint! she's planning everything, down to the decorations, the party favors, the guest list, the color of balloons. Everything. And she's changed her mind on all of it, at least twice.

As her mother, I can only listen, smile, and wait for her to change her mind for the thousandth time. She is a fickle little flower. A sweet, demanding little thing, with a disposition like a partly sunny day. One moment, she's sunshine and rainbows, and the next--she's a storm, ready to weep rain over the bitterness of her disappointment. I sit by, with sunscreen or umbrella handy, as one never knows what you're going to get.

Her little sis is easy. Easy to please. Easy to distract and make laugh. And though she gets frustrated with her little toddler body, me, and learning the boundaries, she is my bubble. The older one, she is another story. Who knows why. Some say drama-queen. To me, it's just her. Just typing this post, I've waited her out. Now she wants orange juice with the same abandon of the forgotten puppy.

This is motherhood.

Blog Tag!

2009-01-19T18:57:00.000-08:00

I've been tagged by my friend and colleague Skhye Moncrief over at: http://blog.skhyemoncrief.com

The rules are simple. Link to the person who has tagged you. Write down six things that make you happy. Post the rules, tag six others and let them know you did it. Then tell the person when your entry is complete.

Six Things That Make Me Happy...
1. Making my daughters belly-laugh
2. Seeing notes from my friends on FaceBook
3. Seein God's perfection in a sunset, a snowstorm, or the swelling waves on the shore
4. 4 o'clock high-tea parties
5. Packing my suitcase the night before a trip somewhere... anywhere!
6. Walking into a bookstore - especially an old one, and inhaling that musty, aroma of old paperbacks.

Now I tagged:
Bess McBride at: http://www.rvromance.com/
Eliza Knight at: www.historyundressed.blogspot.com
Renee Knowles at: http://authorsandbooks.blogspot.com/

All the best, everyone! Have a wonderful week...

Ashley

All or Nothing - Galleys are RELEASED!!

2009-01-17T07:02:00.000-08:00

Good Morning, everyone!

It's finally happened. All or Nothing has been released to my editor. At first, I was struck by abject terror. I knew receipt of the galley meant that the story, for all practical purposes was done. But that also meant one other thing. RuthAnne and Bowen's journey is now set in stone. I've told their story, and now it's time to share it with all of you.

So, prepare to catch a stagecoach, travel over the mountains and into the wilds of the Arizona territory, into a journey into the American West. Part mystery and adventure, part romance -- this spring! All or Nothing's release date is to follow.

Stay tuned to my blog for contests, prizes, and updates! I'm thrilled to have you all along for the ride.

If you haven't had the opportunity... download my Free Read -Tessa Takes A Chance - from The Wild Rose Press. If you'd like to hear more of Tessa's story, shoot me a comment!

All the best on this holiday weekend!

Ashley

Chasing Monsters

2009-01-14T06:47:00.000-08:00

A scream pierced the darkness. 5:15 a.m.

I flew down the hall to the shaking, sitting up form of my oldest daughter. She sobbed into her hands, "The little man downstairs. He had a knife!"

Just a dream, I knew. I soothed. But the knowing of that, and the soothing of her didn't take the terrors away. Her daddy tried to share his wisdom in the wee hours of the morning with little ears that only heard one thing. He didn't believe her.

I shushed them both and picked her up. Carrying her back to my bed, I wrapped my hands around her, held her close. Not until this moment have I realized how much she's grown. Long legs, slender arms, ocean blue eyes that see far more than we give her credit for.

When she was a baby (toddler) 5 a.m. was her time to relive incidents from the day before. I'd perk my ears as I stroked her back, and she talked in her sleep, wailing about unresolved daycare issues. 5 a.m. is her witching hour, the time that she shares her soul with me, and I stand on the sideline and watch her subconscious deal out the blows to the bad ones that my soft spoken little miss couldn't perform while awake.

Now, she's reliving a movie we watched last night: Arthur & The Incredibles. An innocent enough tale with fanciful creatures, good and bad. A secret universe, under our very noses, with a princess, a prince, and a happy ending. And of course, where there is good, so there is evil. A tiny, scary creature with a sword and a vengeance. The story is all about balance of good and evil. Yin and Yang. Light and dark. We laughed, we danced to the music, and we cheered when love conquers all.

But, in her dreamland, convinced that she truly crept downstairs in search of a secret snack only to find the little scary man with his knife.

Was it real? Real enough for a 4 year old on the edge of turning 5. Real enough to curl up with her mama under the covers and stare, wide eyed at the horizon and wait for the first fingers of dawn to unfold the blanket of dark. Real enough for me to hold on to her, stroke her back, and keep the nightmares at bay.

Romancing February - Mark Your Calendars for Your Chance To Win!

2009-01-12T10:13:00.000-08:00

ROMANCING FEBRUARY
28 romance authors invite you to participate in a month-long event of love and laughter. Each day starting Feb. 1, 2009 an author will throw a romance party at her blog and host a contest with a prize.

The link to the next day's blog location will also be provided at each location. Just drop by and enter the contest. And get ready to heat up the cold wintery days of February. You could win a prize a day! On February 28th, one person will be awarded the grand prize of a $75 WRP gift certificate.

All you have to do to enter the grand prize contest is make a list of each author in this blog event and name one title she has available. Submit your list to Christmasrideblog@live.com by midnight CST, February 27, 2009.

The winner will be announced on February 28th--just in time to warm up that person's February. Visit http://www.amberleighwilliams.blogspot.com on February 1st to begin.

E-books & Reading Habits

2009-01-11T07:24:00.000-08:00

Hey, everyone

I'm researching more about how and what we are reading - collectively. So, if you care to play - comment below:

1. List the last book you've read/purchased & plan to read (at LEAST 1)
2. Where you picked it up (Amazon.com, Library, Borrowed from a neighbor)
3. Answer this question: Have you ever read a chapter/story on your phone or computer?
4. How many hours a day/week do you spend reading blogs?

For me:

Nora Roberts, The Pagan Stone -- Next up on the nightstand: Courting Trouble by Renee Knowles! -- Ordered from Amazon.com
Christmas gift - bought at Costco & it MYSTERIOUSLY appeared in my stocking
YES - on my computer. Still have yet to purchase an e-book & don't yet have an iPhone or Kindle.
TOO Many!! At least a half-hour to an hour a day.

Short Covers - An answer for the expensive Kindle?

2009-01-09T11:50:00.001-08:00

This is a new e-reader program that's launching the end of January. They are on target for iphone, as well as blackberry storm - basically an e-reader to kick Kindle's butt... based out of Canada - they are owned/sponsored by Indigo.ca - Canada's version of amazon.com

http://www.shortcovers.com/splash/ - The ShortCover's splash page.

http://indexmb.com/indigos-ereading-initiative-shortcovers-is-out-in-the-open/ - a discussion on the product.

http://www.truveo.com/Talking-Tech-CES-Short-Covers/id/4035412680 - a podcast with the owner.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfgate/detail?blogid=19&entry_id=34327 – another description of the service.

I'm most curious to hear my fellow romance writer/reader friend's thoughts on this as a method of distributing our medium... Feel free to comment!

Happy New Year! This year, it's ALL OR NOTHING!

2009-01-09T06:55:00.000-08:00

I must have still been celebrating the 12 days of Christmas. But, Happy New Year, everyone!

After taking a small break for the cold and rainy Southern California holidays, I'm back to writing full steam ahead. I'm giving serious attention to detail on the galleys for All or Nothing. It's almost ready (hang in there, Elizabeth! :) and mostly, it's formality. My editor rocks, so there is nothing that as of yet has risen its evil head and proclaimed itself "deal-breaker!" I'm not expecting anything, but it is interesting the power of the mind, of night terrors, of wondering if your writing will be good enough when it is released to the world at large.

There's power in print, you see. Not that e-books and pdfs don't have just as much merit. I am a HUGE e-book fan - and self proclaimed super hero name is "Gadget Girl!"

Though I have yet to purchase a reader, (my laptop works just find in my opinion) and a net-book might be just what I need for an e-reader... if they get slim enough, and I can convince my husband that it's worth it -- with all the money I haven't spent on e-readers and gadgets! But, that iphone is so cute, the Kindle is so cool, as I said... I love gadgets. So, I'm frugally scanning Craigslist for one to crop up.

At any rate - back to print. Print is permanent. I've been in the industry for 6 years - and I know, once the galleys are approved, that's it! It's done! warts and all, Professor Soren would say. Yes. At this point, I have to stop mothering the story. It's a baby of a different sort, almost ready to be put on display for the world, to stand on its own merit. I know the characters, the setting, the plot twists, and jokes inside and out. And though I love it, it's time to let it go.

This is even more profound a feeling than sending the synopsis to the Senior Editor at TWRP all those many months ago! So, hang with me, friends... a release date and many posts of shameless marketing are soon to follow.

Christmas is Coming

2008-12-18T06:35:00.001-08:00

With yesterday's sleigh ride (thanks to all participants!) and this morning's chilly temperature (currently 34 degrees outside!) it is beginning to look a lot like Christmas around here! That brings to mind all that's left to be done:

* Last minute gifts
* Last minute groceries
* Finish the ridiculous christmas cards!

So, what's a busy mom to do? Here are some quick tips on how to finish without pulling out the last bit of your hair! so you can actually enjoy some of the pre-holidays this season.

Last Minute Gifts
This year, pay close attention to those holiday panic gifts you purchased while waiting in line. Don't hesitate to return them. Do you really need to gift every relative with a gag gift? or a pen topped with a blinking light? No. Take the time to rethink the "extra" gifts that you purchased just for the sake of the sale. It was only 4.99! you say. Well, that's a latte at Starbucks for you, on your way home. Or half the price of a pizza, for that night you just can't bear to cook. Better yet, by the time you've returned all 6 of them, that's a matinee movie with popcorn for you and your kids! Lots of little dollars add up quickly, and this year the thoughtful gift will go a great deal further than the panic prizes.

Last Minute Groceries
We all have to grocery shop for the staples - each and every week. So, this week while you're picking up your milk and eggs, grab some extra holiday baking items to store in your cupboard in case the mood strikes. Here's a quick list of holiday baking/last minute entertaining items that I like to keep on hand at this time of year:

1 or 2 cans sweetened condensed milk
1 or 2 cans evaporated milk
1 bag powdered sugar
1 bag brown sugar
2 packages chocolate chips
2 packages Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie mix
Almond extract & Vanilla extract
Food Coloring
Apple cider
Cinnamon sticks
Hot Cocoa mix
Mini Marshmallows
Taco Chips & Salsa
Brie Cheese
Craisins
Walnuts
4 pack of crackers
Extra unsalted butter
4-6 bottles of "good" - not "great" wine (I'm partial price wise to the Yellow Tail Cab-Shiraz, Shiraz, and Cabernet.)
Frozen chopped spinach
Artichoke hearts
Cream cheese

With these items, you have all the elements you need for impromptu baking of holiday cookies, frosting, and serving up a quick appetizer and coctails for those caroling neighbors who drop in for some unexpected holiday cheer! Here are some ideas. But tell me, can you think of anything else you can put together with these on hand ingredients?

I get:

Stuffed Brie baked with cranberries will delight any crowd.

Quick Artichoke Dip is both tasty and impressive.

Chips and Salsa go with everything.

Fudge. Yikes. Both brown sugar fudge, and the traditional chocolate kind.

A Sugar Christmas Cookie party to please the kiddos!

Let me know if you have any other brilliant ideas from this exercise. And PLEASE tell me if I've left anything off my shopping list.

Finally, for Finishing the Ridiculous Christmas Cards:

It's happened again. I've created our family Christmas card, as Perry relies on me to do. However, in so doing, I've also created a project for the girls and I (one that they bored of within the first hour), and a headache for myself. So, at the prompting of my FaceBook friends, I have come up with a delightful cheat for all that you would love to send cards to, but don't have the dinero for extra stamps, or time for sitting and stuffing envelope after envelope with holiday cheer. And to you over achievers who finished your task after Thanksgiving, I have choice thoughts for you that I will keep to myself. Largely based on jealousy for your superior time management skills.

For the rest of us, here's a time saving tip! Post your christmas card .jpg online! e-mail it to friends and family overseas. Add it to your FaceBook profile, so everyone can see your little ones as they stayed still enough for the perfect pose, or a photo collage for those of us whose little ones WOULD NOT stay still enough for the perfect pose. Or were crying on Santa's lap! Not the right message for a happy holiday.

Let me know your time saving tips! I'd love to add them to this next year of living on less... as we all adjust to this new depression mentality - there's no need to be depressed! we just need a new way of thinking.

Christmas Sleigh Ride is Here!

2008-12-17T07:28:00.000-08:00

Welcome one, and welcome all! Sorry we're late for all you east coast Christmas Riders! I'm still on my first cup of coffee out here on the west coast...wait! What's that I hear?

The jingle jangle of bells? The thunder of hoofbeats? The shoosh of the sleigh, flying across the snow? It's here! Christmas time! and Christmas weather to boot, which is a feat here in sunny Southern California. So read on, gather a recipe to fold into your holiday treats, and my first gift to you all is a chance to pick up my short romance, an inspirational Free Read - Tessa Takes a Chance, available from The Wild Rose Press.

No matter the time of year, Southern California is usually the land of sunshine and flowers, of beach walks and barbecues all year long. However, the cold, thick clouds have moved in. The day is gray, wet, and calls for a hot mug of cocoa and a crackling fire in the fireplace. It's the kind of day that reminds me of my mom, of being cared for so completely, of decking the halls and singing our favorite carols, and listening to my father's deep, gravelly voice as he reads us the Christmas story, and reminds us of the reason for the season. So curl up and let's talk about our favorite holiday traditions.

I'm the mother of two little girls, ages 4 and 3, and the most amazing thing has happened this season! My oldest asked when they were getting their advent calendars. She's been singing Rudolf and Frosty. We settled in to watch the first Christmas movie of the season at our house, The Polar Express.

Then, of course, we roll up our sleeves for some good old fashioned holiday baking! a feat, with such little ones. The house is filled with aromas of melting chocolate, baking cookies, the kids are covered in flour, powdered sugar, and sticky whatnots that I do my best to ignore. That's when I think about what I remember about growing up under my mom's roof. I don't remember a sparkling kitchen. I remember my mother, who accidentally quadrupled a batch of spritz cookies, and her bribing us to frost about 400 tiny christmas tree cookies. We frosted that year until we didn't even want to sneak a taste!

And, for our Sleigh Ride Song of the Day - I must recall the sturdy, towering, warm embrace of my father telling us the Christmas story, on a cold night in Bethlehem. I often wondered what Mary must have thought, following her husband in such wretched conditions. Such faith is wonderous to me.

Finally - for the bakers & candy makers out there... At our house we've already made the gingerbread house, the sugar cookies, and the first batch of holiday fudge. Unfortunately, making horrible fudge is one of the traditions around here, too. You'd have to know my sister to understand. She's the candy maker of the family, I'm the baker. BUT, this year, with the help of Epicurious.com, I've finally mastered the art of fudge making. So, my final gift to you is the best butterscotch fudge I've ever tasted.

So, add your favorite recipe here! and guess the song, collect all of them for your chance to win!

~Ashley

Tessa Takes a Chance, Free Read! now available
at The Wild Rose Press

Coming Soon:
By Another Name, April, 2009

All or Nothing, Spring, 2009

The Wild Rose Press

And so, here is your Christmas Song Clue: (CONTEST RULES AT THE BOTTOM OF THE POST!)

"Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day walk on water?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new?
This child that you've delivered, will soon deliver you."

Send your guess to the song! then hop along to http://annakathrynlanier.blogspot.com/ for your ride tomorrow!

ABOUT THE CONTEST: Spread more Christmas cheer, everyone hosting the CHRISTMAS RIDE came together and we’re giving one lucky person a $75 Wild Rose Press gift certificate!

To enter, simply:

review each day's blog post
identify the carol
make a complete carol list to submit after the final blog post on Christmas Eve.

Send it to Christmasrideblog@live.com by midnight, CST Dec. 31st 2008!

Start at P.L. Parker's Blog to begin the Blog Ride that connects all the blogs and all the carols. Visit each blog to hunt for the clue to the carol of the day!

Hop along to http://annakathrynlanier.blogspot.com/ for your ride tomorrow! Ho Ho Ho and off we go!

God's greatest gift - a big sister...

2008-12-16T09:07:00.000-08:00

I had a special opportunity to gaze into the huge, amazing heart of my big sister, Paige Day. For those of you who don't know her, Paige is an amazing woman. She's been through the fire and come out on the other side. She's raised three amazing children, survived an abusive, alcoholic first husband, she nearly lost her soul-mate in a motorcycle accident, and she is the strongest woman I know. She is the stuff that romance heroines should be made of. She never quits. She never surrenders. She is eternally faithful to God. She is the kind of woman I strive to be.

Here are some random thoughts that I came across on her facebook page today, and I pray she doesn't mind! but I'm sharing them in today's post. My heart bursts with pride for my big sister, who has always ALWAYS taken care of me. Even when it broke her heart to do so, she's always told me the truth. With my big sister, I can share my deepest secrets, my darkest fears, and my wildest hopes. She is the extrovert this introvert has always striven to be. She is the lead role in the school play while I was the towns-person in the background. She is the soccer star while I cheered on from the sidelines. She is the reason God made me more of a fan, and less of a competitor. I continue to cheer for her every day.

I pray that my girls have a relationship as strong as ours. So, without further ado - here are 16 things about my big sister. My best friend. Some of them I knew, and some of them dampened my eyes, and stirred my soul...

Paige Day at 7:54am December 16

I have enjoyed growing up with my kids.....
I love being a paramedic and a firefighter
Tucson really feels like home, even though I love the different seasons
I have a dragon tattoo on my back (it's way cool, my husband drew it)
Living through Mark's accident and getting our family through it was the hardest thing I ever did
I love roses
I love animals (from fish to dogs, turtles, lizards, rats.....we have them all)
I am starting my master's degree in January
I can't believe I am 41 when I still feel 18 on the inside
I knew I was a grown-up when I started having extra lightbulbs in the pantry for replacement
I love to watch football
I bought a book to learn about the rules of wrestling so I could support my boys.
I love to play American girl dolls with my daughter
When I run it is my favorite time to pray and sort out my life
I love Christmas and get as excited about Santa as the kids......
I think snow is beautiful

I love you, Paigie. Thank you for sharing.

Out of the mouths of babes...

2008-12-09T13:23:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I had to share this with you all - as the honesty of kids floors me on a regular basis. Take Ellie, who told me the other day she had Jesus in her heart, and was wondering how he could get out!

Anyway, here is a chain mail I got today... enjoy the read...

HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHO TO MARRY?
-You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and she should keep the chips and dip coming.
-- Alan, age 10
-No person really decides before they grow up who they're going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out later who you're stuck with.
-- Kristen, age 10

2. WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO GET MARRIED?
Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person FOREVER by then.
-- Camille, age 10

3. HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED?
You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids.
-- Derrick, age 8

4. WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON?
Both don't want any more kids.
-- Lori, age 8

5.WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE?
-Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough.
-- Lynnette, age 8 (isn't she a treasure)
-On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date.
-- Martin, age 10

6. WHEN IS IT OKAY TO KISS SOMEONE?
-When they're rich.
-- Pam, age 7
-The law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn't want to mess with that.
- - Curt, age 7
-The rule goes like this: If you kiss someone, then you should marry them and have kids with them. It's the right thing to do.
- - Howard , age 8

7. IS IT BETTER TO BE SINGLE OR MARRIED?
It's better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need someone to clean up after them. -- Anita, age 9

8.HOW WOULD THE WORLD BE DIFFERENT IF PEOPLE DIDN'T GET MARRIED?
There sure would be a lot of kids to explain, wouldn't there?
-- Kelvin, age 8

And the #1 Favorite is.........
9.HOW WOULD YOU MAKE A MARRIAGE WORK?
Tell your wife that she looks pretty, even if she looks like a dump truck . -- Ricky, age 10

Wow! Take a look at Wowio!

2008-12-08T18:30:00.001-08:00

I came across a read today which I can't put down. And, what's more, it's an E-book, downloadable for free from Wowio.com

I'm suddenly a huge Jack Cavanaugh fan. I've never read the story about how the Bible was ultimately translated out of Latin, and I find myself entranced after page 1.

Review to come!

Christmas Sleigh Ride! Hop on board for your chance to win!

2008-12-05T08:19:00.001-08:00

And WHO wouldn't want to hop on a sleigh ride FULL of fun, sassy, and savvy romance writers?

Here's your chance to win a $75 gift certificate, plus one of 25+ other prizes. All you have to do is guess which Christmas song each author has chosen by the clues they give.

Just follow the blog train each day to its new stop.....discover the song of the day and keep track of them. On December 24th, you'll learn where to send your song titles to so you'll be eligible to win the $75 The Wild Rose Press Gift certificate. In additional, posting a comment on the daily blog will make you eligible for daily prizes! Here's a list of where to start.

They've already held their daily drawing, but checking out their blogs and discovering their song will get you in the running for the the $75 G.C. Good luck and have fun!

Nov 29 http://plparker.blogspot.com/
Nov 30 http://lynnreynolds.blogspot.com/
Dec 1 WRP at http://thewildrosepress.blogspot.com/ (MAKE SURE YOU LOOK FOR THE SLEIGH RIDE BLOG FROM DEC. 1)
Dec 2 http://michelehart.blogspot.com/
Dec 3 2 today!-- http://www.freewebs.com/teriwilson/terisblog.htm
DEC 3! http://www.elainepcantrell.blogspot.com/
Dec 4 Roni Adams at http://thewildrosepress.blogspot.com/

FYI: There are TWO different posts at The Wild Rose Press, one on the Dec.1 and one on Dec. 4th. So be sure to look for both of them.

Our Juggling Act

2008-12-04T07:09:00.000-08:00

I was recently asked how I can do it all. By "it" she meant: write, be a wife, be a mother, and be full time employee.

The truth is, I'm not sure. This morning, for example, I got up at 5 with Perry. We spent some quality morning time together, I sent him off to work, and started going through my final edits for All or Nothing. Quiet music, coffee, a fire in the fireplace. I managed to get through almost 10 pages before I heard the voice from upstairs. "Momeeeee! I want yooooou!"

Now, my daughter is snuggled up next to me, watching Nick Jr. and deciding what she wants for Christmas. Seems like a good time to blog. Check facebook. And do any number of things. Suddenly, she realizes that she wants me, and grabs my arm. I put the computer down and we snuggle, watching the rest of Wonder Pets. The computer waits. The final edits to All or Nothing are quickly saved, and set to the back burner until tonight, after everyone goes to bed. That's the way it has to be.

Being a working, writing mama, I have involved myself with a wonderful group of women in the same boat. We offer each other encouragement, enthusiasm, and support when things go awry, as they inevitably do. Were it not for this support group, I'm not sure I'd be able to keep writing, or have the creative energy to even try. And the introductions to this group all stemmed from becoming part of The Wild Rose Press (TWRP) garden of authors.

The owners of TWRP can be credited by encouraging authors and readers to communicate with one another through message board posts, scheduled chat sessions, and online social networking sites. However, I doubt that they envisioned what a phenomenal creative environment that they were planting. We all have a common goal. I know, through my frequent communication with my world-wide network of author friends, that there is a common thread that runs through us all. We write because we always have. We write because we love books. We love to read them. We surround ourselves with them.

As the medium grows and changes into a digital format, with a new revolution in the development and encouragement of the short story, each submission becomes an online crash course in creative writing. At TWRP, I've been paired with three amazing editors. Each submission, I've learned how to be a better writer. And, All or Nothing has just improved because of what I learned writing and submitting Tessa Takes a Chance, By Another Name, and another story still in the works for resubmission, Solstice Moon.

And, through it all, I've had to learn balance in my life. How does a working, writing, wife and mother balance her day so that none of the plates she's juggling crashes down around her head? I attribute my success in all categories to my project management experience. My life has become my project. Each day requires planning. Each week requires goals in every area. Each goal requires prioritization. Because it is categorically unacceptable to let any one of the important plates in the air fall. Not my kids. Not my husband. Not my job. Okay, sometimes the housework goes to the dogs. (And by that, no, Millie doesn't pitch in and do the vacuuming!)

This is an ongoing adventure, a roller coaster that I don't want to get off. So, how do you do it, my writer friends? How do you keep your plates in the air?

Totally Cool

2008-11-26T06:45:00.001-08:00

Good morning, all!

This just in! By Another Name is going to galleys! Woo Hoo! I just got word from my fabulous Senior Editor, Nicola Martinez. Most exciting to reach this point. This short story was a blessing from the get go. Easy to write, it flowed from my fingers. Those are the best. I have, in the past, said that contemporary shorts are my "cheats." In fact, I now believe it's my therapy. What's more therapeutic than weaving a little redemption love story? Can these little snippets make the world a better place? I think so. Why, you ask?

Because I believe in happily ever after. I tell the girls that their daddy and I are living ours, and they are our little princesses who someday will have their own. After college. After grad school. After they develop into strong, confident young women, which seems to be a recurring theme with my heroines.

So, this is almost Thanksgiving day. I braved the grocery store last night, thinking I'd be all sneaky and get my holiday groceries ahead of time. Along with half of Temecula. Aye, yai! yai! Anyway, the fridge is packed. We've opted for a free range turkey, never frozen rather than the traditional block of ice to sit in the sink for a day. This year, recovering from surgery, and still unable to lift more than 10 lbs - a fact I forgot BEFORE I went to the grocery story - so, today, Perry's going with me before we brave Costco together. Lord, we must be crazy.

At any rate, have a happy Thanksgiving weekend. Good luck braving Black Friday, for you kamakaze shoppers out there! Many blessings, and safe travels to you and yours!

~Ashley

Final Edits are Rolling In!

2008-11-22T15:28:00.000-08:00

When it rains, it pours. I say this as if I know. I live in sunny, southern California -- and we all know it rarely, if ever, rains here.

At any rate, I have that rainy day feeling. The high, thin, gray clouds are rolling in ahead of the so-called storm that's been forecast for our area. AND, if that isn't enough of a hint, this week saw both of my current manuscripts (MS#1 - All or Nothing, and MS#2 - By Another Name) were returned to me for my final touches. Raining. Pouring. Both due by early December. And Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner!

GULP. This means, hands off! only make a change if it's ABSOLUTELY necessary. The pages are basically laid out. All or Nothing looks like a book. It FEELS like a book. By Another Name reads beautifully, if I do say so myself. I'm like a proud mama, seeing my babies come of age. They're almost ready to meet society. And that's going to leave me without a full length project.

Uh-Oh.

I've started and stopped Castles by the Sea about 89 times. I bailed out of NaNoWriMo this year. I just didn't have the energy, even though I did have the time. Now, I need to find a new focus. A new place to throw my energy, my spirit, and my heart. I prayed for inspiration, and now I have it falling out of my ears. In a conversation with my editor. In a song. In a child's tale. In a verse from the Bible - Romans 12:12. And, of course, in seeing the Twilight revolution, and knowing that there must be something better to offer teenage girls than that. Not that it isn't great that kids are reading. But... AND I can't really say, as I haven't read the stories yet myself. But does it leave them edified? better kids for having read such a story? maybe. After all, it's a love story, and what's better than that?

Again, there is much to be plotted and planned. But, again, I have time. Hopefully, about the time All or Nothing goes to print, my next novel will be starting its journey to publication. I'm blessed to have an opportunity to write, a publisher who believes in me, and the heart to pour out onto paper.

Someone once told me that if I published a book, he'd buy me a ranch of my own. Soul ties are powerful things. We went down different paths, and if the ranch is in my future, the good Lord will keep whispering great stories in my ears. I just thank you all for reading, for believing in me, and the best -- I pray -- is still yet to come.

Spend Some Time in The Shack

2008-11-19T08:44:00.001-08:00

The Shack by William P. Young

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book intrigued me from the word "go." Working as I do for R. R. Bowker, I keep my ear to the trades, plus as my friends know, I'm a new novelist - - so any story of how a new author becomes published is of interest to me. ESPECIALLY this one. Windblown Media blew my mind. Way to go, guys.

At any rate, I was intrigued by the fact this book couldn't find a home at a "traditional" publication house, but hit the world with such powerful timing. No matter how this book found the shelves, demanded distributorship, and now can be purchased everywhere from Walmart to Costco, I can't tell you enough how I suggest everyone read it. The funny thing, I found myself recommending it to others before I even purchased my copy. And that, I think, is testament to the power of word of mouth.

First and foremost, the story of Mack. Man, as a Mom -- the trials that Mack and Nan went through as parents leveled me before I even picked up the book to inspect the cover. I, as a rule since becoming a mother, refuse to watch my once favorite show, Law and Order SVU. I stay away from movies like The Changeling, even though I know at one time I would have eaten that up. But after encouragement of a friend, I started reading. (Simultaneously, as it turns out, with my Mother -- which I find cosmically cool.) Once I started, I couldn't put it down.

All spoilers aside - because I wouldn't do that to you, Mack, Papa, or Willie - this story shows the heart of God in a way I've rarely seen. Wrap The Shack up and give it as a Christmas gift, to yourself, and others. Read it for the heart in which it was written, whether you choose to agree or disagree with its philosophy. You won't regret the journey.

View all my reviews.

Constructive Criticism

2008-11-12T15:03:00.000-08:00

One of the most helpful books I've ever read is Dale Carnegie's "How to Stop Worrying and Start Living."Sure, everyone says "How to Win Friends and Influence People" is his best work. I tend to disagree. Though I honestly couldn't tell you the majority of what is in that book. What I do know, is that it changed my life -- it taught me how to be critiqued - which is imperative for my growth as a writer. Who knows what else Mr. Carnegie expounded upon. This is what impacted me, at that low point of my life, and what I can share with others as a turning point towards a better day in mine.

What's changed in my life since I read that book? Back then, I was in a crappy relationship (read UNDERSTATEMENT, and fodder for many villains in my stories), I was trying to make extra money selling soap. I honestly was miserable, but I longed for a career as a writer of fiction. I longed for love and for friendship and a home and a family that loved me.

Well, let's see. About 14 years later, (oh Lord! feeling REALLY old) I'm happily married to my soul mate (the very saying would make him cringe), I have two lovely daughters, a great "day job" career - if they'll still have me (going to see when I can go back to work tomorrow!), and I am a working Author of romantic fiction. I also have befriended numerous authors, editors, cover artists, and publishers, who are all working to define this new dawn of the Print on Demand publishing industry.

Perhaps I have my head in the clouds with aspirations of being a full time writer, but realistically, I know that is several years in my future. Right now, I'm in writing boot camp. I'm learning from my editors at TWRP - I'm on my THIRD! now working with the Senior Editor of the White Rose Line. (Hi, Nicola!) I've been brow-beat, lovingly guided, and instructed on how to improve my writing techniques on everything from: Showing - not telling, maintaining proper POV, getting rid of the dreaded words: was, felt, seemed, etc. which I'm still working on. And so many other points. They are basically bad writing habits that many of us fall into -- I'm sure you notice I have a comma problem. Apologies to that regard. I tend to comma splice when I'm thinking. Crazy.

What I can say is this. For aspiring writers out there: if you ask for criticism, be ready to take it in for the spirit in which it was given. Your manuscript will return to you, bleeding and ripped through with "suggestions" and "pointers" on the errors of your ways. Your editor is now your partner, with an equally vested interest in your success. Make no bones about it. It is the hardest thing you've ever done.

I was given an excellent piece of advice by one of my writer-buddies. She told me to breathe. Then, read through the entire thing - absorbing all of the comments. Then, pick up a pen and make your notes. Develop your tricks. Use find and replace. But, pay attention to what they say and don't assume your first pass is your best work. Give your editor's comments the chance they deserve, and soon you won't believe what you were capable of producing.

The back and forth can be difficutl. Honestly, your baby -- your precious pages -- will be the bane of your existence by the time it goes to galleys. But, having it go to galleys?!?! Having your story receive a gorgeous cover?!? an audience to read your words?!?! That's my idea of heaven on earth.

Wine Tasting in Temecula

2008-11-12T10:38:00.000-08:00

So, you want to go wine tasting in Temecula, California - but there are so many wineries - what's a wine lover to do? Tell me - are you interested in a few tastes at really great wineries? or are you interested in eating a great meal as well? Either way, your palette won't be disappointed.

Due to our unique climate, Temecula is most amenable to the Italian reds. A climate that is warm in the day, cool at night, with the ocean breezes and misty mornings, which I have been told is the perfect combination for the Sangiovese, Syrah, Cabernet, and Barbera grape varietals. What does this mean to you? It means that one does not need to drive eight hours up the coast to Napa or Sonoma to taste fine wine or to fill your cellars with pricey "brand names." A tour of Temecula Wineries is just the thing to get you in the spirits for this holiday season.

The best day to go wine tasting is Monday through Thursday. Come on a weekend, if you must; but wine tasting on a weekday will all but guarantee that you will actually get more out of your tasting experience than arm-wrestling with a limo full of tipsy bachelorettes jockeying for elbowroom at the tasting bars.

For the most relaxing, yet sensory experience - I highly recommend starting with an early lunch at Ponte - one of my favorite outdoor lunchtime spots. GREAT food, excellent wine pairings. Then, you can either taste at the lovely tasting room there, or move on to some of the others.

South Coast Winery is truly a destination in and of itself. It boasts a fantastic, sweeping landscape - villas where one can enjoy all of the pampering of a 5 star spa - and a heated pool to bask in the sun while sipping Chardonnay. Their dining experience is a must for a night on the town, save for the cheesy player-less piano music - and you can book ahead for private or patio dining. This is a fabulous way to end up your trip if you don't want to drive home. For day tasting, however, the tasting room is a bit cavernous; though their wine is is spectacular, don't get me wrong. I am a huge fan of the Cabernet, the Ruby Cuvee (a sparkling Syrah). Plus, I have many friends who work there, which makes the whole experience quite pleasant.

Wilson Creek, at the far end, just redid their tasting room - I haven't been there, but their dessert wines are delicious. Almond Champagne, and their dessert wines, such as port is a must try. The grounds are flower filled and the tasting room has just been updated.

Stewart Cellars offers a fantastic Cabernet, among other things, and has the feel of one of the "old" Temecula wineries. The staff is quite knowledgeable and you might learn a thing or two while sipping.

On your way out, I'd definitely give Hart a try - it's very small, but OLD Temecula, one of the first wineries, and the owners are usually mulling about. GREAT Barbera - and other rich, Italian reds. Talk about old Temecula!

Remember, always have a designated driver, or look up a ride from one of the many places to stay in town. The Grapeline offers stops at wineries throughout - or you can plan a private tour through DesTem.com.

For more information, a private tour, or a tasting-buddy, don't hesitate to leave me a comment!

Cheers!

An Historic Day

2008-11-05T08:41:00.001-08:00

All I can say is, wow. This is an amazing day. Perry and I stayed up late in the night watching CNN, MSNBC, and seeing how it all came together. We have a new president. Change is coming. Change is needed.

Did you know other countries were beginning to see us as being a hypocritical democracy? After being under the Bush and Clinton leadership for 24 years? When you look at it that way, it's startling.

We can agree to disagree on our politics. We can agree to disagree about the direction that the next president might take the country. But one thing we must agree on - is this time in our lives will be remembered forever.

By Another Name - Book Cover has arrived

2008-11-03T08:17:00.000-08:00

Once again, I am floored by the beauty, artistry, and amazement of seeing my name on the cover of this story.

By Another Name, an Easter Lilies contest winner, came from the heart. It's a sweet, romantic story of redemption.

By Another Name, by Ashley Elizabeth Ludwig

What happens when a reformed high school bully falls for the girl he tormented seven years earlier?

When Kade Sinclair crashes into the girl of his dreams, she quickly wrecks his heart. Not one to take no for an answer, he pulls out all the stops to win her over. What he learns changes his life forever.

Rosalee Timmons is coming home. A single mother, new business owner, and the object of the most popular guy in town’s attention, starting over will be the biggest hurdle of her life. She may be hiding behind a new name, but that doesn't heal the old scars on her wounded heart.

When Kade realizes that confident, aloof Lee is actually little Rosalee Timmons all grownup, it seems he hasn’t a snowball’s chance. But when opportunity knocks, he finds a way back into her life.

Will Lee accept an apology seven years in the making, or will Kade give up before she finally gives in?

What Makes a Book a REAL Book?

2008-10-31T09:01:00.001-07:00

I'm a member of RWA - and now I'm not sure I'll renew. Thanks to the letter from our new president, it seems that small press and POD publishers are being kicked to the curb. That's unfortunate. For RWA, in my opinion.

If I may quote, our esteemed leader has said that her Theme for her presidency will be "...to help her writers become career focused." And that POD publishing houses take "...no risk" in the publishing of these works.

I disagree. Wholeheartedly. Is a working mother who stays at home stuffing envelopes not career focused? What about any other kind of cottage industry, where women and men post items for sale on Craigslist.com or slave over crafts to sell online to earn their living. Are they not career focused? Are they paid up front? or do they have to put in a little bit of work ahead of time? Does that make their income any less earned?

My publisher has taken a risk with me, an unproven writer. They've hired a cover designer to design this awesome book cover. They have provided me with an exceptional editor. They are laying out and designing my galleys, for Kindle, for PDF, and for a trade paperback finished product. And they are providing a distribution point, an ISBN number, and outreach to Baker and Taylor, Barnes and Nobel, Amazon, etc. for the online distribution of my book.

Due to my "day job" at R. R. Bowker, I happen to know ISBN numbers are not cheap. I also happen to know that each one of the services I mentioned above comes with a price tag. So, I didn't receive a check for a few hundred or a few thousand or more. Does that mean I am not a writer? An author? or that my book is not a book?

I've seen my publications with a small press as a partnership. A learning experience. I would LOVE to have it develop into a career, but until that point, it gives me a much needed outlet for my creative fervor. Did they purchase my book up front? no. Have they charged me for the phenomenal editorial service I've received? The astounding book cover I've been given? or the encouragement to become a much better author? YES. It's been like writing boot camp. I now have the capability to crank out a short story, conceive a novel with the knowledge that it will find a home. That is worth its weight in gold, in my opinion.

I don't know that we so much need to bow to what RWA feels is a "real book" or a "real author." I think we need to focus on how to prove what we do [Print on Demand Literature] is a valid, viable industry. SO, how do we do that?

One thing we have to focus on is how what we do is in its earliest stages. We are the new kids on the block, like mp3s were, once upon a time. Hmm. Download music? What a novel idea.

So, perhaps our POD publishers need to work with us to revise the contract process so that residuals are higher, more advertising is included with the publications. Or perhpas we need to develop a new romance writer's association - for POD writers. I think perhaps a combination of all three.

I challenge you to see who the new writers for RWA are, every reported month. Half of them are Wild Rose Press authors. And, while the RWA is moving to new headquarters and giving themselves a raise by increasing our renewal memberships, have they considered who their new members are?

One thing is sure. What it means to be a POD author needs to be better defined. I see us as authors in a time like when Louisa May Alcott was just starting out, with the invention of the printing press. Many more doors were opening at that time. There were questions as to what made a woman capable of being an author. We all know what happened there. So, what about now? Where does that leave the product of our blood, sweat, and tears? Who is New York to determine who is a quality writer and who is not?

I propose that we - POD writers - find our own solutions and not throw in the towel.

What do you think?

Holiday Meals...

2008-10-29T16:13:00.000-07:00

Heavenly Holiday Roast Beef
Here's an easy recipe that any cook can master. Prepare a feast for your whole family that's a breeze to prepare and delectable for your taste buds.
View more »

Renewed and Revitalized

2008-10-28T13:34:00.001-07:00

I'd like to take a quick moment and thank all of you who read this blog. Throughout my journey to publication, I've made many friends -- and I also have come to realize that there is nothing more important than the friends and neighbors we see every day. The subtle encouragement of the familiar sometimes gets lost... but I've been thinking about this place I live - in suburbia. There's a saying that goes, "anyone can make a friend. Only God can make a neighbor." And when your neighbors become your friends, it makes every day so much more interesting.

Yes, in our corner of Southwest Riverside County, our houses are elbow-width apart. Yes, we all moved into this corner of the world within days of one another. We've seen neighbors come and go. We've watched with despair as foreclosure signs have appeared on streets other than our own. We celebrate each others' triumphs and are there in times of need. I know my neighbors and friends have been there for my family during my healing process.

So I want to say a heartfelt thanks. You know who you are. I was told by a dear friend that I was given the gift of encouragement, which I've never really considered as a God given spiritual gift. But is it? And if it is, I feel even more inclined to use it!

God gives us each a special gift - or talent, as the Bible so wonderfully translates it in the parable. I don't think that is a coincidence at all that the gifts each man received is translated as a talent. Even the man who broke even was a-ok in the Lord's book. But hiding it. Wasting it. That is unacceptable. God would rather us go out into the world, try and fail, than hide away in our basements.

My writing adventure is just that. I'm not publishing with a huge house, that's true. But The Wild Rose Press houses some wonderfully talented writers - (I'd say women, but I know one or two of them are actually men writing inspirational romance. Ladies, how awesome is that?!?!) Who doesn't want to know what kind of hero/heroine relationship a man can put together?

I'm rambling now, on a roll. Thanks, Elissia! :) Still - the point remains, I am revitalized by knowing that you all are out there, cheering for me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Don't waste your talent. I'll do my darndest not to waste mine. And we can all celebrate together.

Back in the Saddle

2008-10-19T09:51:00.000-07:00

Good morning, friends! It's football Sunday, and you wives of Fantasy Players know what I'm talking about.

I'm resting and recovering - after being significantly fussed at by my doctor. What did I expect? I'm the mother of two kids under the age of 5. Of course I'm doing too much. Just sitting here, resting, listening to the herd of wild buffalo running around upstairs while daddy is changing bed sheets - I'm cringing. But I'm not running up to take over. Or even crawling up. I'm resting. With half-crescents in my palms from squeezing my hands too tight. But he's doing it. And he's wonderful. God bless him. REALLY. He needs all the help he can get!

At any rate - the big news is the contest entry. My story, "By Another Name" won one of three contracts for The Wild Rose Press Easter Lily Contest. It will be released in April - I need to get out the contract, the manuscript information page, and everything this week. I'm hoping Kimberlee Mendoza will do another lovely cover for me. :) Shameless plug, Kim, if you're listening!

That shot me to the moon last week. I'm waiting on two other entries - but am back to writing new and interesting stories. I have a project with a dear friend I'm fleshing out, as well as rewrites for Castles by the Sea and the final Final final? edits for All or Nothing. Elizabeth is giving me a run for my historical money. God bless editors - and the writers who do their bidding. ha ha. She's a fantastic editor and I'm in boot camp every time she shoots me an email with a question, request, or added bit of historical tidbits to make the novel soar. So, this author is beaten. The few things I was clinging to, I've let go, following her superior advice, letting go of my stubbornness and following her lead. Authors, be thankful for editors as diligent as mine. :)

At any rate, I'm looking forward to sending her Castles, so that she can see how much she's taught me. Total rewrites are a chore, but when you put the tools you've learned into play, hopefully the revisions won't be nearly as painful. If I can get A or N out by a year from my contract date, I'll be lucky.

SO- thanks everyone for your well wishes. I'm going back to watch some old Ginger Rogers flicks for my "research" - while the kids "help" their dad. Better get in what I can before the Chargers game starts! Until next time,

Ashley

Notes before taking some leave...

2008-09-26T07:04:00.001-07:00

Good morning - all. Friends, fans, and family... I had a few minutes with my morning coffee and almost picked up my journal - but decided here was as good a place as any. We're about to go through some changes at our house. I'm off work for awhile, as many of you know... but before I go, we're taking our little trailor down to the beach for a relaxing family weekend WITH FRIENDS this time.

This should be fun. For once, it's Perry's group of work friends we're going with. I'm truly looking forward to meeting these people he spends time with. I've been promised many hands to help with the girls - which should be great - and I'm frankly looking forward to parking myself in a lounge chair and watching the waves, having a few glasses of wine, toasting marshmallows, and listening to laughter and great music... quality time with no computer. Ha! no phone (save for the cell to call my sis/bro in law when we have a trailor "emergency") and just "roughing it" together.

Life is good. I'm set for surgery on Monday, and will be in recovery a bit after wards. Don't expect much from me until middle of October - when my birthday extravaganza begins! :) Mine and Ellie's. This year will be cause for great celebration. We have our wonderful girls, our friends who have been coming out of the woodwork to lend their support and their good wishes. I'm genuinely blessed, and finally feel at home in this little town of Temecula, California.

Will I ever consider myself a non-Arizonan? I don't think so. It's the home of my heart. But, being able to take an easy trek to the beach for a few days is a joy that I always longed for. I've got a husband who loves us so well. And mom and dad are coming out to lend a hand. All is good. So, here's to a quick recovery, time to work on "Castles by the Sea" -- my WIP that's in rewrite now. And some enjoyable time researching the 1930s - one of my favorite periods in history.

Love and blessings to you all... and I'll catch up in a week or so... Meanwhile, good reading, and good writing to you, all!

~Ashley

Book Review - The 10th Gift

2008-09-11T07:01:00.000-07:00

The Tenth Gift by Jane Johnson

My review rating: 4 of 5 stars
Jane Johnston's the 10th Gift is an amazing first person adventure into the life of a young woman, on the verge of falling apart. Her long-standing affair at an end, she is bound to her ex-lover only through the pages of an antique book - her parting gift. What she finds is an invaluable treasure: the story of a young woman from 1625 who is kidnapped from the Cornish coast by Barbary pirates to become a Christian slave.

Soon consumed by this story, she finds herself rootless, homeless, and following the young Catherine's trail to the coasts of Moroccco. She learns that there are two sides to every story, and that true love can find even those who've made mistakes.

Not just a romance, it is a mystery frought with intrigue and well researched historic detail. She maintains a fast pace for all of her characters, even though the story flip-flops back and forth between time periods, and locations. It is a highly recommended, entertaining read.

Edits complete - Double Phew!

2008-09-03T16:17:00.000-07:00

All or Nothing edits are DONE! DONE DONE DONE.

I'm so exhausted.

One more read straight through and then Elizabeth can have it back. Fingers crossed that this time it'll go to galleys!

Show Don't Tell

2008-09-03T16:10:00.000-07:00

Here's a hump-day question for you lovers of romance.

Would you rather your husband SHOW you he loves you, or TELL you he loves you?

I've been pondering this one this afternoon - as I am a romance writer, and I have a husband who is a shower. He tells me, too, yes. But sort of in that robotic way. The obligatory "I love you, bye" kind of way.

Now, for those of you who know him, he is a first generation American, born to Germans straight off the boat. Germans are very stoic sorts. They're gruff. They're a happy bunch when they've had a few brewskies. They're also not terribly lovey dovey. HOWEVER, back in the day, we were a schmoop-fest. Things change. Kids come. Diapers. Years of spit up in the hair. Later, up all night with sick tummies and snotty noses. The romance is sure to dim somewhat.

So, is it better to have your lover SHOW you they love you - by pulling some weeds? doing dishes? playing with the kids so you can take a night off? bringing home takeout?

Or would you rather a sudden, unexpected heartfelt hug to all the soap bubbles in the world? This tired mommy wants to know, what works for you?

Who Needs Sleep?

2008-08-27T07:01:00.001-07:00

I vaguely remember what it was like to sleep through the night. Or, I should say, I remember waking up feeling refreshed, and less like I was punched in the face. :)

I think the difference between adoptive mommies and mommies that went through the biological process is that preperation the Lord gives you with not sleeping before the munchkins arrive. Personally - I slept like a log through R's entire delivery. Didn't even know she arrived until 10 hours later. *sigh* I wanted so badly to be there. Consequently, I didnt' put rachel down or sleep without her for probably 9 months, when she became determined to walk and no longer required a sherpa. HA.

With E, my DH and I drove back and forth to Anaheim 3 times the night of her labor, returned home to sleep once things were settled, then awaited the call - which of course came at 4:30 am that E was rapidly on her way. I was able to help in the delivery room - which was a blessing I'll never forget. ANOTHER STORY. I'm going to cry - and that's not the reason for this post.

I've also heard about adoptive parents with older kids - who have night terrors or trouble sleeping at all. I can't imagine what that must be like. To know your baby had such a hard time while you were waiting so desperately to bring them home...

Today, I was mulling over how parents cope with sleep. Do you have a "family bed?" or do you cherish your pillow time and relegate the little ones to their own rooms? R didn't sleep when she was a baby. That kid would wake up and want to play. She didn't sleep until I had E around, and then I guess she gave up on waiting for me. Now, she sleeps like an angel - and only rarely appears at my bedside in the night.

E on the other hand is having issues again. She hasn't wanted to go to sleep without one or both of us in her room. She's been scared of shadows. She's been needing water. She's been coming up with any excuse possible to delay the inevitable. SO, Perry had the brilliant notion this week to tell her -- you dont' have to try to sleep. Just lay back, close your eyes, and think of your favorite things. Sleep will find you. And, IT WORKED. I couldn't believe it. She stopped wandering the halls. She stopped screaming for me. She actually has slept through the night for three nights in a row.

Is there light at the end of the proverbial tunnel? Of course, we're going out of town for Labor Day Weekend - so all this hard work will probably be tossed out of the window. *sigh* BUT, I'm hopeful. I've slept through the night, and it felt GREAT!

If anyone has any sleep tricks they have to add, please do so!

I should be...

2008-08-26T06:42:00.000-07:00

I should be doing the final edits on All or Nothing.
I should be writing a chapter on His Darling.
I should be reading something to improve myself in some manner.
I should pen an article for Constant Content that I've been mulling over.
I should be getting things ready for our Labor Day trek to Laguna.
I should be... sitting right here, listening to the birds sing, enjoying a gorgeous Tuesday morning.

It is a beautiful morning, too. The sky is just brightening to that pre-dawn, orangey-blue. And since when was it pre-dawn at 6:48 a.m.? The huingbirds are battling for position at their feeder. I really need another one. There are as many as eight out there, darting around like fighter jets. The birds are enjoying their feeders. The fountains are just getting started, with our latest edition - either "Shiney" or "Peek-a-boo" - whoever it was that decided to stay in our pond - is floating with his head up, like he loves to do. We have one red eared slider turtle now - the other decided to abandon ship or was absconded with, we're not sure which. We've thus far managed to convince the girls that we still have two. LOL.

Anyway, my goal is to finish the edits on A or N by the time I get out of here on Friday, so I can do a final run through on vacation. Ha! what a vacation. Rereading a story I've read a million times over. Maybe I'll read it backwards. I heard people do that sometimes. Pick each page apart individually, of its own accord.

What can you do to keep your story fresh? Any ideas? Back to edits. *SIGH*

Did I mention?! Ellie slept ALL NIGHT LONG in her OWN BED. And she's still asleep at 6:53 a.m. Lord, am I ever pushing it. I'd better go or I won't get even a page done.

Have a great day, everyone!

Feeding a Finicky Family

2008-08-25T15:07:00.000-07:00

Okay - in 4 1/2 years, I still don't have this right. Meal time is stress time at our house. At least for me. Maybe it's because I work from home, so I'm here. Though if I were in an office, I wouldn't be thinking that there's nothing started for dinner at 3pm - but, since I'm right upstairs, I'm already consumed by the notion that 6 o'clock is approaching and nothing is defrosted.

I have to ask. How do you all decide what to do for dinner? Do you have the same 5 or so meals you cycle through like my mom used to? Or do you experiment and try new recipes? Does everyone eat the same thing at the same time? or do you try and cook for the kids and have "grown up food" for you all?

I have an issue with a husband whose mother raised him on meat and potatoes. When I serve him chicken piccata he blanches! give him a salad of any kind, and he looks at me like I've asked him to eat one of the bushes in the backyard. The man was never more excited than when I made chicken strips and fries for the girls. WHO KNEW?!

I've since stopped trying to impress him with my cullinary skills, and am turning my attentions to my finicky 4 year old. I've convinced her after the weekend that she must eat protein or she might shrink to the size of Thumbelina. SO, any suggestions for a kid that would rather eat corndogs than anything at all?

How to tame a toddler

2008-08-21T07:37:00.000-07:00

There were posts going around on our message board for TWRP yesterday about writing with toddlers around. Yeah. That's a real trick, isn't it? Rachel's in that phase now that she can be kept busy for hours coloring, watching a favorite show, or working on her projects (see Rachel at the kitchen table with a pair of child-safe scissors and a bunch of hastily printed out family pictures. The kid is an amateur scrap-booker extraordinaire!)

Ellie is another story. The girl is a ball of energy, needing constant attention and wanting to talk all of the time. ALL of the time. These days, she still sounds vaguely like Elmer Fudd. All of her "L's" are "Yuh" sounds. Hear: Eh-yee instead of Ellie. Yost instead of Lost. At any rate, they've settled down again. I have a full day of work ahead of me, and we're going to race off with the "school kids" and meet our day care at the elementary school.

Will I have time to work on edits for All or Nothing today? I've reviewed the full MS --returned to me from Elizabeth on Tuesday--and I can absolutely make the changes needed in just a few short weeks if not sooner without breaking a sweat. The only question mark is with the kids! will they let me? Working on my writing before and after work, staying up late into the night, waking early in the morning, my friends ask me "When do you have time to sleep?" perhaps writing with small children in the house gives you just what you need to do that. I wasn't sleeping anyway...I might as well write.

Tessa Takes a Chance Released!

2008-08-18T12:40:00.000-07:00

My free read was released today - and I'm sailing. I can only imagine what it's going to feel like to have my full length novel released! Wow.

SO - if you have 10 or 15 minutes - download Tessa Takes a Chance for a fun "mommy length" read.

As reviewed by my dear friend, Wendy:

Bravo!!!I loved the story. Just long enough for me to enjoy as I ate a quick lunch. Perfect Mom read without feeling mom focused. I really like Tessa.

Wendy

Saving Face...

2008-08-06T16:30:00.000-07:00

I'm undergoing a little experiment. I've recently signed up for facebook and I'm trying to determine if it's a fun diversion or a time sucker.

Any thoughts on the matter?

Points for:
1. Finding old friends
2. Staying in touch with friends out of town
3. Networking with fellow employees
4. It's like instant messenger on steroids

Points against:
1. Time spent adding silly applications is basically wasted, while we pin flair on each other and serve up margaritas
2. Time wasted looking for people who I could care less if I ever talked to again
3. Be careful what you post online - see networking with fellow employees. ha ha.

The jury is out. Are any of you face-bookers? Feel free to friend me and we can chat about it!

~Ash

Three more chapters to go!

2008-08-05T07:51:00.000-07:00

I've got three more chapters to go - or so - on my current work in progress (WIP). It's getting very exciting... even though I know what happens, you never know how the characters will end up working out their story.

I've already been suprised by my main character a couple of times, and the guy she loves is nowhere near the scoundrel I thought he was going to be in the beginning. More of a tragic hero, actually.

The bad guys have had their own suprises along the way-- which is also cool. The act of developing a story is just as exciting for the author as hopefully it will be for the reader. I look forward to reading the finished product as much as someone who plucks a book off of the shelf. I always know when it's ready when I can read it without a pen in my hand.

Does anyone else feel that way? When do you know if your story is truly ready to share with the world?

All or Nothing - Cover

2008-08-04T07:11:00.000-07:00

Hey, everyone!

Good morning! we're freshly returned from Arizona - and I'm on my third cup of coffee, trying to get going before the "Momeeee!"s start at the top of the stairs.

I was scanning a week's worth of e-mail and found the note from Rae Monet and my editor that All or Nothing has been covered. Not just any cover - but a STUNNING cover.

Kimberlee Mendoza is my hero. She designed an incredible cover for All or Nothing - truly capturing what I wanted. It looks mysterious, intriguing, romantic, and a little dangerous...

Thank you, Kimberlee!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm so excited...

What does it say to you?

~Ashley

Where were you when the earthquake hit?

2008-07-29T12:14:00.001-07:00

I was sitting at my desk when the world went BOOM.

In fact, I just had opened an e-mail from my editor with my formal, final blurb attached. I take that as a powerful sign from above.

There are some things about earthquakes that you just don't think about. For example, you don't expect an earthquake to have volume, but they do. There's a jolt, combined with a sonic-thunder. It kind of reminds me of when the A-10s used to hit the city limits of Tucson and bump it up to break the sound barrier - right over our house! the windows would rattle in the frames. My mom would invariably be in the kitchen, looking out the window and muttering something about that damned air force under her breath. As she was allowed to do, being the wife of a former Lt. Colonel.

I'd look for the airplane, but my dad would squeeze my shoulder with his strong hand and say, "Honey, if you can hear them, they've already gone."

As for earthquakes, by the time you first feel them, get up, get under a doorway, or duck and cover, they're pretty much over. Unless you're on the 17th floor of a building on rollers. Then the fun just keeps going and going and going... (ask Wendy)

As for me, I'm still not used to them. This Arizona girl doubts if she ever will be. Oh, yeah. I say they're exciting. But, inside, my mind screams "GET THE HECK OUT OF THE HOUSE!" Millie (our dog) was outside, because she knew it was coming. Come to think of it, that must be why she's been barking at every opportunity - MOST unlike her. In fact, she's been barking about it for days...

Dogs are awesome. Earthquakes, not so much.

Mornings with Ellie...

2008-07-29T07:09:00.000-07:00

Ellie greets me every morning at the top of the stairs, usually while I'm having my morning coffee. I hear her sweet, raspy little voice:

"Mommeeee! I 'wake!"

So I go greet her, usually wrapped in her shiny pink blanket and laying at the top of the stairs, waiting for me with a slight, pearly grin.

"Morning, mommee... I want to go down-stay-ahs..."

So, I'll carry her down and we snuggle, listen to music, or watch her favorite show... this week, Scooby Doo. Last week it was Mrs. Spider. Before that, Dora. We like to mix it up. Ha.

Ellie's getting so big, but still, she's my baby. I'm struggling, because my surgery is coming in September, and I have 8 weeks or so where I won't be able to pick her up and carry her. Of course, at almost 40 lbs, I have a bit of a time carrying her around anyway, and she is almost 3... but, I love it. It's our time. So what will our time be after the surgery? I'd say, just like this. Me, typing one handed, and Ellie's head in my lap.

After all, I did write All or Nothing with Ellie in the crook of my arm... I can do it again... of course, she was about 30 lbs lighter back then...

What are you doing right now?

2008-07-24T10:32:00.000-07:00

This one came from my WRP message board - but it was such a fun exercise I just had to share...

The trick is - give a ONE WORD ANSWER only to each of the following questions (see mine here...) -- It's harder than you think! I'd love to hear yours!

Here are mine:
1. Where is your cell phone? KITCHEN
2. Your significant other? WORK
3. Your hair? HIGHLIGHTS
4. Your mother? SLEEPING
5. Your father? READING
6. Your favorite thing? CHOCOLATE
7. Your dream last night? WILD
8. Your favorite drink? COFFEE
9. Your dream/goal? PULITZER
10. The room you're in? MESSY
11. Your High School years? REUNION
12. Your fear? LONLINESS
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? BEACH
14. Where were you last night? HOME
15. What you're not? THOUGHTLESS
16. Muffins? ZUCCHINI
17. One of your wish list items? SHOES
18. Where you grew up? TUCSON
19. The last thing you did? CHAT
20. What are you wearing? COMFIES
21. Your TV? NEW
22. Your pets? BARKING!
23. Your computer? BUSY
24. Your life? LUCKY
25. Your mood? FOCUSED
26. Missing someone? WENDY
27. Your car? WONDERFUL
28. Something you're not wearing? POLISH
29. Favorite Store? MACYs
30. Your summer? VACATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

~Ashley

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Coming Soon...
Tessa Takes a Chance, Summer, 2008
All or Nothing, Spring, 2009
The Wild Rose Press

What's your love story?

2008-07-20T06:54:00.000-07:00

My friend Skhye is highlighting her valentine's tale - Sacraficial Hearts...(new to my must read list...)

Today - she posted this question: What have you given up for the love of the person you love(d) enough to marry?

In answer--Before I met my husband, I'd just about given up on ever finding real love. I had become determined to just enjoy myself - that marriage was no longer for me, and that my true soul-mate (HS Sweetheart) had gone off and married another while I was dithering around with the wrong guy.

Then, one summer night at a beach party - there he was. Handsome, funny, sexy, and completely into everything I did or said. And, he lived a world away in San Diego.
Proximity wise, he was all wrong. But he was everything that I had ever dreamed of in a life-mate...but to make a life together, one of us had to start over.

Like any hero, he offered to come to me - but I knew his heart. So, like any heroine in my own romance, I gave it all up for love. My home at the beach, my career, hardest of all, leaving my best friend... and I never was more certain it was the right thing.

We married a year to the day after we met. Two daughters and 9 years later, it was still the best decision I ever made...

It's all automatic...

2008-07-18T13:02:00.000-07:00

This morning I had the strangest notion. Do you realize, in 2008, it is entirely possible to integrate yourself into the consumer process, without having to ever interact with another human? At least, another human you aren't on the phone with.

I'm not talking strictly being able to order goods and services online, and have them delivered to your house. That's been around since Sandra Bullock lost her identity on The Net (for those who didn't catch that reference - it's a late 80s/early 90s movie... more believable in this day and age then it was back then).

Humor me for a minute.

This morning, after working since 6am - halting to make breakfast & drop the munchkins off at my dear friend, Alina's, (my one bit of adult - non work interaction - where they will play, socialize, and basically learn how to be social animals)

I set out for a morning of errands before I finished up my half-day Friday (ha ha) see me working a full day, anyway - and here's what happened:

I Purchased gasoline at the island - no human interaction ($4.33 a gallon at Costco!)
I checked myself out at the grocery store - no human interaction.
I sold a posting to my Craigslist Posts through e-mail, no human interaction.
I received payment from Pay-Pal - No human interaction.
I conducted an online banking transfer - No human interaction.
I stopped by ATM - DIDN'T even get out of the car.
I printed out my own mailing label - No host uman interaction.
I dropped off my pre-packaged item to the post office counter - no human interaction.

What I didn't admit above - was practically the whole time I was chatting away into the blue tooth that I now clip to my head every time I set foot out of the house. We now have a society of Californians who wander the streets, looking like they're talking to themselves...but that's another story...

I also work from a home office, conduct conference calls with my co-workers 2,000 miles away... and my most frequent "in person" conversations of late are with my friend and daycare provider, my husband, and occasionally the neighbor over the fence in a Tim Allen, Home Improvement sort of way. Thank heavens for my writing group, a few of us who meet every other week for a coffee at Cosi's!

I'm not an antisocial person. I love people. And I love chatting LIVE over coffee. However, I've made a pledge to myself:

Remember to take off the blue tooth that seems etched to my
ear, smile, and say hello to at least one new person each day.

Some reviews for All or Nothing from my fabulous friends...

2008-07-13T09:50:00.001-07:00

"Reading a novel by Ashley Ludwig is a delicious treat. Her characters and scenery come alive to feel like long lost friends. This book is a must-read for my book club!" -- Kay Rather, Tucson, AZ

"I was on pins and needles waiting to see what would happen with RuthAnne and Bowen. Great story! Very suspenseful ending." -- Denise Harmer, Fallbrook, CA

"I would recommend All or Nothing to lovers of historical romance and inspirational fiction alike… [All or Nothing] has a great story line…that will appeal to a wide variety of readers." -- Robina Shultz, Golder Ranch, AZ

"All or Nothing has rich characters, vivid historical detail, and an intriguing mystery! All in all, a fun and exciting read." -- Suzanne Radcliff, Tucson, AZ

"Ashley Ludwig has a rich writing style, and a lovely tone. Readers will fall in love with the characters and setting, alike." -- Paige Day, Tucson, AZ

"Watch for cactus thorns, Ashley Ludwig masterfully paints the Arizona desert with such passion, you'll feel the heat." -- Dan Harmer, first time romance novel reader, Fallbrook, CA

"Ludwig’s description of 1800’s Arizona captured my imagination in a romantic story that, amid the cactus and coyote, slowly warms like the sun rising over the morning desert." Beverly Nault, Temecula, CA"

"I connected with so many of the strong, feminine and real characters in All or Nothing. Thinking about them now, I want to read the story all over again." --Wendy Nield, LA, CA

All or Nothing - Returned - AGAIN!

2008-07-11T06:37:00.000-07:00

Okay, second round of edits have been returned to Elizabeth. I have until August 20th for a creative reprieve. How do I feel?

Exhausted.
Elated.
Wrung out.

I had every intention of writing something creative today, so I'd better get to it. Just wanted to share my total relief, after having to slash out paragraphs, sew up my was-clusters, seek out problem repeated words, and all of those stray punctuation marks that seem to find their way to the forefront while you're elbow deep rewording paragraphs and pages.

Amazingly enough, the story is better than its ever been. My editor is a genius. I'll shout it from the rooftops. I've learned more about writing this year than I ever have - even in college. So, on that note, here's to the next project. Something short that I can finish quickly. And then, back to Castles by the Sea.

How to write a must read...

2008-07-09T12:39:00.000-07:00

This is a question that keeps authors up at night.

How does a book become a "Must Read?"

Is it a catchy title?
Is it a beautiful book cover?
Is it word of mouth advertising?
Is it excellent mechanics?
Is it excelling in english 101?
Is it creating intimacy with your audience...and if it is, how do you do that?

So, intimacy, huh? Are we talking behind closed doors, or sensual intimacy? No. I'm talking intimacy of sharing the details and minutia of your day with your mom or best friend. I'm talking about the intimacy you put in your journal that is shoved in a drawer where no one would ever think to look. I'm talking intimacy of honesty in your writing that makes you believable in every way, shape, and form.

This is how I feel intimacy is developed - please chime in if you have any ideas on the subject...or, call me out if you think I'm way off base! I'm still learning, here!

I believe it's creating characters that could be your reader's sister, best friend, lover, crazy ex, or odd next door neighbor that no one ever sees and everyone talks about.

I believe it's honesty in the writer's voice...so that your reader becomes enveloped in your story, becomes invested in your characters, and digs their toes into the beach sand or the bed covers, turning page after page until the story is finished.

I believe it is a setting that you know so well, it's like taking your reader by the hand and on a personal field trip through your mind.

I believe that it's listening and learning from your editor, taking tips and tricks from successful writers, and weaving them all into your current story, and starting from there - using them when you weave your next tale. This is what will make your next story the best book you've ever written.

Plotting, Pant-sing, Character building exercises aside. Us authors need to work on developing our voice, first and foremost - and the only way to do that, is to write. Write every day. Write about anything and everything. And like my friend Dan Harmer said, write like your parents will never read what you've written down. (He said something slightly different, but I don't even like to think about a world without my parents in it - so I'll say it this way: Write like you're jotting your story in your diary that NO ONE knows about.)

This is nowhere to be timid. This is your opportunity to confront your subconscious. To drag those deep, dark, scary, sensual, inspirational, and/or devotional thoughts into the light of day. Fillet your soul and let the world see what you bleed... And that is what I feel makes a must read:

True Intimacy.

Edits complete - Phew!

2008-06-30T09:47:00.000-07:00

Well, three cheers to Elizabeth, for her fantastic editorial contribution to the All or Nothing project. That's what it has become. A project. A comprehensive effort - that will be reviewed by me ONE more time, and then forwarded on its merry way - to be designated with a cover, back cover copy, blurb, etc. and so on. Lord, I can't wait to see the cover. It'll be amazing. A dream. I used to stroll book stores to envision where Ashley Ludwig would reside - and now, it's happening.

What a phenomenal effort on the part of The Wild Rose Press - whom I couldn't be more excited to work with. I am so excited about seening the cover. About the rest of the publishing process, which is, as of yet, a mystery to this writer. I'm ready to go back to work fleshing out my next historical, inspirational story - Castles by the Sea... set in the golden era of Hollywood. I'm looking forward to it - but have so much plotting to do, I should change the concept to plodding. Why oh why can't I be a pantser? Every story I've ever "pants-ed" together has gone nowhere. Oh, well. That's a topic for another day.

Popsicle summer

2008-06-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

Saturday heralded the official arrival of summertime -There is nothing like seeing the popsicle smiles on their sweet faces, and enjoying that cool California breeze off the coastline. My girls are getting bigger, learning to swim, and can still strip and run naked through the sprinklers in 5 seconds flat. The video camera is on the fritz, so as soon as I can get it to the geeks at Best Buy, the more video I can capture of that reckless abandon.

The garden is spectacular - the flowers have outdone themselves, even though the heat index has been screwy. And, now we are in construction of our newest Ludwig Family Project...the river. Yes. Perry is constructing a river in the side yard. Complete with tricklng fountain, tadpoles to turn into froggies, and fish. I imagine we'll even find a home for a turtle or two. Lord, I'm going to turn into my sister. There are worse things than that. My sister rocks.

Speaking of sisters - I often wonder how my mom did it with us. Granted. We had more of an age difference between us. Three and a half years instead of 19 months. I am bound and determined to see these little misses lean on one another the way that Paige and I do. To hear them speak about each other once they reach adulthood - the way Paige and I speak about each other. What does a parent have to do to engender that? All I can say is, patience. Fights are not allowed. Hurting feelings on purpose is a definite no-no. Respect. Love. Fun. Play. All of these things are mandatory. Hateful words must be apologized for as much as physical contact. But, you know what? There is something about hearing them play, invent games, giggle in secret, and plan together that makes my heart flop around in my chest.

People ask me, as an adoptive mother - if my girls are related. *CRINGE* first of all. Second, comes the smile that states - you have no idea what you're asking me, do you? You might as well ask a person who physically bore their children - oh, is your husband the sperm donor for both your kids? But - no, I don't do that. What I do say is my pad-answer: "God made us a family. We're not biologically related, but Rachel and Ellie are sisters. I'm their mother...Perry's their father, and Millie's our dog."

Aye-yai-yai... that's a whole other topic for a later date!

We're all part of the same gene pool. Jump in and take a swim. After all, it's summer. And have a popsicle, while you're at it.

Some notes on editors...

2008-06-16T15:48:00.000-07:00

Wow. I've gone through over 300 pages of detailed notes from Elizabeth. Yikes.

First thoughts, after seeing my bleeding, disected manuscript... AAARGH!!!
After catching my breath, my second thoughts (no pun intended) are... wow. How lucky am I?!?

I have an editor who is brilliant. She not properly and politely chastised me for the overuse of "was" - she fact-checked all of my historical elements. Bowie or Buck knife? When in the world did "threw me for a loop" enter the public vernacular? and other things that make me blush, and slap my forehead with a good-0le Homer Simpson " 'DOH!"

So, notes on editors. WHERE would we be without them? I shudder, suddenly, thinking of how many editorial mistakes I have made on this blog. Apologies, dear readers, for any overuse of commas, misplaced modifiers, lonely words, and other editorial attrocities that more than likely exist in this here blog.

So, with every edit, this writer is putting herself back to school.

Quickie Reads...

2008-06-11T12:34:00.001-07:00

Okay - now is the time. I'd like to present a new review source for short and full-filling e-reads.

Quickie reads is a place where anyone can highlight a favorite short story - be they rosette or miniature rose, or any other length.

Today we're highlighting: Catching the Bouquet by Kara Lynn Russell. Have you read it? Post a quick review! or download it when you have a quick minute...

Add a Quickie by commenting on the Add a Quickie page.

Read Quickie Reviews - for both paid and fun reads...

Or, add a "Full-Filling Reads" for full length novels that are worth the time and cost of admission.

Please, take a glance. Contribute. There are so many titles, and so little time - I really need your help filling the site with quick reviews!

It's a great place to showcase your work - whatever the link. Please take a look and let me know your thoughts. Post your title, or post a friends. Let's fill this up with lots of great stories that can fill the moments, when you only have a moment to spare.

~Ashley

Love and Loss...

2008-06-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to a new world. A world without a man who was central to my dear friend's life. The father of her child. My heart aches with the loss. The part that is the worst, is the mystery behind it.

He was a mere shadow of his former self. Once upon a time he was strong, brave, funny, caring, true. But something happened. Somewhere along the way, the demons found him. A blank slate. A man who had doubts. They peppered his life with shadows. They took what was true and kind and good and turned him into something else. Someone who was lost. Who was unsure. Who was scared. Who despaired. Who couldn't find the joy or the will to go on.

And this world has lost of a good man. A man who if he would have just asked for help, would have had so much offered him. A man, who if he saw himself the way the world saw him, could have found hope. My heart hurts. My reason is rent in two. I pray God that he found peace. Today, I thank God for my steady husband. Today, I pray peace for my dear friend, and her sweet daughter. His loss will not be forgotten.

Where in the universe are you from?

2008-06-09T13:04:00.000-07:00

Thanks, to my friend Skhye Moncrief - now it's officially official. My compartments I've diligently organized for myself (see post from this morning, below!) now look exactly like the top of my desk, counter, bar, and kitchen table. :) Still, this is my life. I'm from Mercury. Where in the universe are you from?

You Are From Mercury

You are talkative, clever, and knowledgeable - and it shows.

You probably never leave home without your cell phone!

You're witty, expressive, and aware of everything going on around you.

You love learning, playing, and taking in all of what life has to offer.

Be careful not to talk your friends' ears off, and temper your need to know everything.

What Planet Are You From?

Thoughts for a Monday

2008-06-09T09:23:00.000-07:00

Listening to: Birds singing in the backyard
Price of Gas: $4.25 a gallon
Stress Level: low to medium

I spent the weekend with my parents -and my mother took it upon herself to share with me that I've been a wreck lately. Thanks, mom. No one can completely level you like your own mother. Thank the Good Lord that my mother knows how to pick me back up again, dust me off, and set me on a better path. She told me to compartmentalize. To not try to do everything all at once. Work during work time. Take care of my family during family time. And write when no one else is around.

Well, that's the trick, isn't it. When you work from home, there's always work to do. There's always someone around, because I'm a parent of a four year old and a two and a half year old. And then there's Perry. And we do everything together. So that leaves, when everyone is asleep. Okay, so we're going to try that this week. Now that Rachel's in school, and Ellie's playing with PJ at Niki's house - it's time to go to work. And what happened? My e-mail's full. I'm archiving. So that buys me about 10 or 15 minutes to blog about my Monday morning thoughts. Uhoh. In attempting to compartmentalize, I'm blurring the boundaries. This is supposed to be work time. Thank heavens I don't actually have to drive anywhere to go to work.

Never have I been more glad to telecommute than this summer. I can hardly believe that Perry and I are considering buying a new SUV. I've been calculating my weekly mileage, and suppose if you consider my commute is walking upstairs to my desk with a cup of coffee, than perhaps I've done my part for the gasoline crisis.

After two weeks, and a few trips out to Lake Skinner for the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival, I racked up a total of 115 miles. Not bad. Perry only drives slightly more, so perhaps we can swallow the cost of an SUV and cruising around in comfort, rather than scrinched in the minivan. I'm still on the fence about that one.

Still waiting patiently for Tessa Takes a Chance to go live. Stay tuned for the sweet little read to grace the Free Reads section of www.TheWildRosePress.com

Another thing to do today - after work (and believe me, I want to get to work, my E-mail is still auto-archiving and disallowing me any access...argh!) I will get through at least another 50 pages of All or Nothing edits. I was going to this morning. I even woke up early with Perry so I could get to work right away. I don't even think I had my face washed when Ellie's little voice called from my doorway. Mommy! I wake! Go downstairs watch Dora! Lord, the child's addicted to Dora The Explorer!

Did I mention it is impossible to write a romance novel with Dora the Explorer on the television? Not much better with Miss Spider, Max and Ruby, or anything else considered Pre-School time on Nick Jr. Aye yai yai. So, I whipped out my journal, and we wrote her name awhile. We wrote down every word she could think of, and I swear the child talked for two hours and forty-five minutes, nonstop.

My mother says this is my karmic payback. My nickname, they remind me, when I was a toddler was the mouth. So, I set the edits aside (sorry, Elizabeth!), I picked her up, and we talked and tickled, and I remembered how once upon a time I wrote a novel with her happily cooing in her swing. Perhaps by the time I'm ready to start the next one, she'll be sleeping in a bit more. In the mean time, it's ridiculous to let this add to my stress. I have until July 10 to return the MS. I've been advised to take the entire time to get it right, and Lord knows, I'm following the sound advice of my fellow authors. *grin*. I just love saying that.

So, with that in mind, back to the day-job. I'm going to do my darndest to solve the world's bibliographic issues today. Diving whole focused into work, now that e-mail is done archiving. Edits come later. Then to the park with the munchkins. I'm compartmentalizing - work during work time. Play during play time. Edits and writing after my family and other obligations are complete. And someday, maybe, this will be the only work I ever have to do again. And wouldn't that be sweet?

Edits Received!

2008-06-06T09:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was crazy. Life has been beyond insane as of late, and I was taking a few hours out of my schedule to actually get my hair done. My therapy under the expert hands of Dina at the Temecula Salon and Day Spa, with the added benefit of getting an awesome cut and color in the bargain.

At any rate, with one foot out the door, and a final check to e-mail - it came. A note from Elizabeth West. My hero. The one who saw something publishable about All or Nothing. The one who loved my book enough to buy it. AND, I'm discovering, the one who keeps me honest with my writing. She has located every nook and cranny in the pages where I subconsciously cheated. Would RuthAnne say this that way? How could they walk past the stable when they just left it five minutes ago? How could a stagecoach perched on a ledge be wedged in a crevasse? All of the questions on continuity where needless to say - I blew it.

So, time to roll up the sleeves! Elizabeth rocks. I will review each comment with my own fine-tooth-comb, and make sure the characters remain true to themselves and their story. To make sure that my bandit is just as dastardly as he needs to be, and of course, that everyone lives happily ever after.

When I handed the pages back to her last time I thought I was sick of them. Now that they've been returned to me - as one of my editor friends mentioned - bleeding from all of the comments and deletes and changes - I am prepared to go to work. To dress the wounds. To resolve the unfinished issues. To find all of my choppy sentences and flesh them out. To not change my name to Miss Placed Modifier (haha) but to institute good grammar wherever I have broken a Chicago Manual of Style rule. Except in conversation!

I'm in school. I'm learning every day. My husband asked me this week where all of this entrepreneurial and creative energy stems from, and honestly I don't know. All I do know is that I write because I love it. I love this story as much as I love the home that I am cozying up each and every day. Each wall that I've painted. Each plant that I've dead-headed, planted, grew from a seed, or hole I've dug with the strength of my arms and the sweat of my brow.

The story is growing, as my garden is growing. The fact that Elizabeth is pouring her heart into these pages is stunning to me. She is equally involved in RuthAnne and Bowen finding each other. Realizing they are made for one another. Making sure that nothing tears them asunder. This project that began in the wee hours of a fall morning, with Ellie asleep in the swing, in a post-newborn, hormone induced frenetic moment - is now a labor of love for my editor and me. And so, it is with great care that I will go back and read each note. Evaluate each one in the spirit it was given, and finish this story so that we can get this book to print. All by July 10th. Holy cow.

Thank you, all of my author friends who've been up this creek I'm frantically paddling... for your sage advice. I honestly don't know where I'd be without you!

~Ashley

Anniversary...

2008-06-03T09:28:00.000-07:00

Today is Perry and my 8th wedding anniversary. Lace and Linen, they say. Ooh la la. Well, it would have been - in life before toddlers! ha. My question to you is - what is the most romantic memory you have of your spouse? Anyone can be sexy... but romance? That is an art form.

My most romantic memory of my sweet husband is this... and it may seem silly to some, but those of you who know him know that Perry - world's greatest sports fan - is also the world's biggest softie. Here goes:

It was 1999. Summer. One of those long, lingering Hermosa beach days - where I beat both the marine layer and the sunset home from a marathon day at Adwire. I had the convertible top down on my red Mitsubishi Eclipse as I cruised down Sepulveda Blvd; in 99 I was probably blasting Train on the stereo, singing along about meeting Virginia at the top of my lungs...

That was back when I shared a beach house with two room-mates, our balcony had a sliver view of the Pacific on Manhattan and 2nd. Right across the street from Le Petite Bistro and Mickey's Deli. This was where the boys played volleyball and girls like me loved the eye-candy. Back when I was going on dates, enjoying the company, the free meals, wine, and deciding for myself if I would or would not even give in to a goodnight kiss. What I loved about Hermosa, was that with so much to drink in, I knew that when a guy REALLY turned my head, I'd be in love for sure.

Perry was different from the get-go. He made me laugh. He made me think. He knew how to have fun and not worry about strings. He knew we were just getting to know each other, and that I was not serious about anything with anyone. Including him. But, one day, when I had a date with someone I don't even remember his name and was hurrying home to get ready... there, on my doorstep, was a little tiny Star Wars - Phantom Menace dixie cup, full of Hershey's kisses. He'd left a note, that he'd dropped by knowing I wouldn't be home - on his way to a Dodgers/Padres game. He just wanted me to know he was thinking of me.

Whoever that guy I went on the date with (yes, I still went...) was toast. Sure, I devoured some Rockin' Sushi on Hermosa. But, I floated home on a dream of Perry - His smile, his deep, tanned skin, his sweet, thoughtful nature. Was it possible this sexy, romantic guy was really into me? And why, darn it, did he live 90 miles south, in San Diego?

My life in LA LA land was drawing to a close. I knew it. Wendy, my best friend and boss, knew it. I had every intention of being Tucson bound. That summer Perry stepped in and changed all of my plans. He changed my life. He changed my future. And, take it from a gal who's taken a LOT of wrong turns... He is the true love of my adult life - my soul mate - my partner in parenthood - and my very best friend.

My hope is that Rachel and Ellie will give themselves a chance to find true love, and not sell themselves short - and to find their soul mates - after they've gone to college and have fantastic careers, of course. ;-)

~Ashley

Writing in Haste...

2008-05-27T09:36:00.000-07:00

Haste Makes Waste... an interesting thought for the day, really. Today we're told that haste makes waste in publishing, so be careful what you write when writing quickly. Isn't that the truth? And here I am, hastily blogging about that subject.

I've recently switched WIPs away from contemporary - which was fun (my promotional short story Tessa Takes a Chance will be available soon from Wild Rose Press - YAY! :) -- so, I'm back to re-writing a White Rose Historical - set in the golden era of Hollywood. It was one that was tabled and reviewed by Harlequin ages ago - but never made the final cut due to (looking back on it now) some hasty writing that was long on dialog and short on research and historic detail. *How mortifying to admit to this! but I was young. What can I say?*

What I love about writing historicals - is that you must research a subject, know it, practically live it before you can etch one word - rather than just streaming it all down off the top of your head. Granted, we are living in contemporary times - but I digress.

When researching All or Nothing - I made a home for myself in the reference room at Fort Lowell Museum. Now, I have my favorite online research sites I haunt on a regular basis; there's nothing like hesitating mid-sentence to wonder: What sort of underclothes would my heroine be wearing? What does her hat look like? Her hair style? how would she voice that particular thought? The deeper I research, the more in tune with her I become, and the better able I am to weave her plights, and share in her victories!

I remember Jude Deveraux once saying that she was always most interested in underclothes and where people went to the bathroom. Think about it. What's more intimate than that? I've also read that with regards to setting - the worst thing a writer can EVER do is to jar their reader out of the universe you are creating. Setting is such an important part of that universe. As is avoidance of all anachronisms.

So, perhaps the internet allows historical writers to conduct our research a little more hastily - however, it also enables us to get the details spot-on as we don't have to stop writing, get in the car, drive to the library, get sidetracked by the new releases, etc. and so on.

Finally, this begs the question: Where do you, as readers, find yourselves most intrigued when diving into a historical? What gets you flipping pages? What do you want to know about - regardless of the time period you are reading? Do you want to know how they cook? sew? gossip? shop? how much things cost?

Please comment - I'd love to know your thoughts

Plotting

2008-05-21T06:48:00.000-07:00

For the next few weeks, I'm digging deep into the craft, working on that elusive concept of plotting. And, I'm very interested in how my process varies from other writers...how do you plot your tales? weave your universes?

I've asked the writers and readers in my Yahoo Publisher's Group on what types of reads they were most interested in. Short, "quickies" if you will - fulfilling stories you can read in 10 minutes or less (frankly, for the mother of toddlers, this is an awesome idea).

Personally, and the general consensus is - that the full length novel is still our over-arching favorite. To read and to write. But in either case, you must give way to plot. A conceivable, believable plot that will draw your readers in from sentence #1, and keep them turning pages late into the night.

If you're like me, you have a trunk full of stories that you've been writing since you could hold a pencil. Most of them are unfinished. Un-plotted. Written by a plotter who was writing like a pantster.

Okay - what's the difference? A plotter knows basically where the story is headed. A pantster writes "by the seat of their pants" - giving life to their characters and letting them go and do as they will.

Writing like a pantster for the past two weeks, working on a short, has been an excellent exercise for me. Allowing my organized self to just let it go and see what happens. Of course, once the bones are there, then the plotter goes back in, fills the holes, revamps the ending, and ties up all loose ends in a nice, neat little bow. We'll see if the latest submission has any merit soon. Hopefully. Perhaps what I've written is actually a first chapter and not a short story, as one of my writer friends mentioned. Aye yai yai. Too late now.

So, with regards to plot - here is what I do when laying one out:

Pour a cup of coffee
Pick up a yellow note pad
Write a quick scene, off the top of my head, introducing me to the hero or heroine I've been chewing on (if no one particular is in mind, I'll add someone into the scene and ask them who they are...)
When the mind clicks, (authors, you know what I mean), I give the hero/heroine a problem, and then introduce them to each other. Do they like each other? Have they ever met before?
Write out the storyline for the two to solve their problem together.
If all of the above clicks, you have a story to write through to fruition. If none of the above works, it's back to step 1 tomorrow.

Now - though I'm a plotter, I'm vicious with my stories. I am known to hack my darlings to pieces if I don't believe what they're up to. Often, I'm surprised by what happens. I mourn when someone dies. I laugh with them, cry with them, and lose myself - much to my family's chagrin. Even Rachel now "writes books" at her little student's desk in my office, telling me, "Mommy, read what I've written here!" - okay, voices from MY past - I did the same thing to my mommy. Ha.

If they aren't going anywhere, back in the WIP pile they go. I flip flop from story to story until I fall in love and can't let go. Historical Romances are slightly different, as my plotting process depends a great deal on historical events, research, and finding believable voices and points of view.

I would LOVE to hear your plotting schemes - how your story arch comes into play. Feel free to comment!

Have a blessed day!
~Ashley

Another Thursday...

2008-05-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

Perhaps it's just another Thursday night - but I got to thinking... This has been an insane week, life wise. Everything has had to fall to the back of my list to take care of my kids. Whenever it didn't, all heck broke loose. I think I had the fortune -can't say misfortune here- of praying for patience not too long ago. There's a line in Evan Almighty, where God tells Evan - "If you pray for patience, I'll give you more opportunities to be patient..." And, oh, I got them in spades this week.

I've also had the opportunity to finish a book, plot three new stories, read some amazing shorts from my fellow authors at www.thewildrosepress.com, and what's more, I have a clearer idea on where I need to be in the world.

I also got word from my editor that she's working on my MS - so, prepare! the trimming of the darlings is bound to be coming soon...

Okay, back to it. Rachel & Ellie need to go to bed. Story time...which now involves each of them telling me one thing to tell a story about. Last night had to be about a bunny rabbit and a jewel. Yikes. Try coming up with that one off the top of your head!

Goodnight!

Crossroads

2008-05-06T06:33:00.001-07:00

Clicking away through WIP - I'm still wondering what project comes next? DO I attempt something beyond my current comfort level? Stretch my writing to leap out of that zone? Or do I comfortably click away through another historical?

I'm enjoying writing in contemporary - in a way I never thought I would. No research - except in cooking, as my heroine is a fantastic caterer. My family is reaping the benefits as I'm cooking and experimenting in the kitchen.

I was thinking of having a log line poll to see who likes which one best - to determine what to do when my rosette is complete. Please let me know if that is something you'd participate in... curiousity of knowing where to throw my soul next is just killing me...

Have a blessed day~ and keep writing!

Of Little Girls and Ladybugs...

2008-05-05T19:19:00.000-07:00

My sister gave us a "new" used hybrid trailer for Christmas - that means, it has a 17' long body, and pop out beds to 23'. We're planning on putting it to good use this summer, having already braved a trip in February - when we discovered the heater didn't work (BRRRRR). All freshly fixed up and serviced, we just spent a lovely getaway to the lake over the weekend. Perry fished to his heart's content (though I think I heard the fish laughing... we didn't see ANYONE catch ANYTHING all weekend.)

The girls and I collected ladybugs and butterflies and played on a hidden beach.We had a picnic under an enormous oak tree on a field of grass. Flew a kite. Connected the dots with the stars, and woke up with the birdies. Idyllic? well, we were camping in a pop-out trailer. I did my best this time not to envy all of the lovlely, shiny new 5th wheels and Class Cs that were parked all around. Class As didn't even bother to try camping where we were parked... So, social envy was curtailed in that arena.

We still love Lake Skinner - the best place close by, thus far, for a cheap weekend getaway - with no computer, no work, no bad days...

Let's just say, we returned home with far less beer (and stress) than we hauled out with us. The girls are tan and happy, with some bandaid scars to share with their friends today at school. We spent last night finding many more places in and around SoCal to wander in our little tiny trailer. Can't wait to see where we take it next!

All or Nothing - Blurb

2008-05-01T10:38:00.001-07:00

A widow who finds love. A soldier who seeks redemption. And, a murderous bandit who will stop at nothing to keep them apart.

RuthAnne Newcomb nearly dies in a rockslide on the winding road to Tucson, Arizona in 1876. But, what seemed to be an accident was a cover-up for a heinous crime; the murderous bandit, El Tejano, has struck again. Robbed and left for dead, all that remained for RuthAnne Newcomb was her faith, and the gifts God gave her. She never guessed she would need both to endure the handsome, vengeful soldier who saved her life.

Captain Bowen Shepherd offers aid in exchange for information leading to the criminal's capture. El Tejano is bound to strike again and RuthAnne is the only living witness to his crimes. Left with nothing but her savvy and unwavering faith, RuthAnne is forced to return to the scene of the crime and work with the intolerable soldier. She never expected to fall in love with him. But can Bowen let go of his troubled past long enough to give her all of his heart?

Already, the criminal is after the one witness that can destroy him. The soldier and the widow must risk everything to work together, to unmask the bandit once and for all, before he can strike again. Will their love be the cost of bringing a murderer to justice?

Funny Scenes...

2008-04-30T07:28:00.000-07:00

I was thinking this morning, while choosing a funny scene from All or Nothing, that isn't love funny? What is more fun than falling in love? the thrill of the chase? the making up? the tension? the drama? all of it can tumble away in the blink of an eye with a laugh. That's what makes someone human--our ability to laugh at ourselves. For, what is more funny than being utterly vulnerable together?

I think that's why I love the romance genre so much... because in all things, in all situations, you put together a hero and heroine and there is always comedy before passion. At least, in my experience. Ha! don't know what that says about me... You get mystery, intrigue, comic relief, and then, that blissful happily ever after that little girls dream about. In my life, I'm lucky. I tell my kids that they are part of my happily ever after... that their daddy is my prince charming. And the day we got married, was my princess day.

Oh, don't get me wrong. Before I met him, I had to kiss a lot of toads along the way. :) And we can't always be princes and princessess. Somedays I wonder if Perry's been eating flies. Of if I'm not acting more like a wicked stepsister than the heroine... God has a phenomenal sense of humor. If you can't laugh with him, what's the fun of living?

Wine Notes...

2008-04-29T11:27:00.001-07:00

This week is for celebrating. And abject terror. I sent my official final draft of All or Nothing in to Elizabeth yesterday - thanks to feedback from my Temecula Writer's Group... special thanks go out to Dan and Denise Harmer. Denise is now my hero. You have a gift for technical writing. A gift that skipped me, I might add! *embarassed to the max with the majority of my repeated technical errors.* Let's all pause for a note of thanks to the proofreaders out there. All right? ;-) Let's move on!

I felt like I was at AA last week during writing group - I admitted that whenever I pause in thought during heated writing - I type a comma. this results in TONS of revisions as my comma splices are identified and plucked out, one by one. Does anyone else have such bad writing habits?

So - all worry aside that Elizabeth will receive All or Nothing and want to throw it in the trash! - This week will be for celebrating. I need to scare myself up a bottle of Ruby Cuvee from Southcoast Winery... EXCELLENT offering, I might add. Ideal for celebrations.

To be Two Again...

2008-04-25T10:48:00.000-07:00

Oh, to be two and a half again...
To not care that you're covered in sand. To grab on to your mommy when a wave plows you over. To know that she'll be there to catch you and bring you up to the surface again. To build sand castles and see magic in the air when a kite takes flight on an unseen breeze. To trust. To love. To laugh. To live. I suppose that's what Jesus meant, when he said let the children come to me. We all need to remember what it is like to be truly childlike. Ellie and Rachel are my teachers. They're my education on how to dance like no one is watching. How to be goofy and fun and that it's more fun to hear your favorite song a hundred times than to skip around the radio looking for something else. If I were two years old today, I'd want to dig the deepest hole I could. To look for seashells. To sit and let the waves slap at my legs. To spend all day with my mom and dad. To play. To eat too much ice cream. To fall asleep on the way home and know that I'd wake up in the comfort of my own bed.

Point of View

2008-04-22T09:47:00.000-07:00

I've been reworking All or Nothing - per my editor's comments - to look for Point of View violations. Point of View, interestingly enough, is also the focus of my writer's group this month. And, it just so happens that I've learned a few things in the process of fixing these Point of View errors.

You generate suspense when your character/reader doesn't have all of the information.
The need to go back and reread something for clarity is all but removed when the POV is right.
Deciding who has the most to lose in a scene - and therefore should be the POV - is a challenge. A BIG one.

I've got 30 pages or so to finish and then I can call it a book. Read it one more time and send it on its merry way to Elizabeth. Who, incidentally, has the same name as my sweet Ellie. A God thing? Maybe. I'm just terribly grateful for such a professional, wonderful editor. She's really helping me become a better writer and I am learning to love the process.

Does anyone else feel that when you are forced to edit something, nothing is so juicy as all of those ideas that are floating in the aether? I have to force myself to edit when all I want to do is idea generate. To plot and plan. I have three books waiting to get started - new ideas, not to mention the three ideas on the back burner to be rewritten from scratch. *SIGH*

30 pages. Not insurmountable. Just need to knuckle down and get it done.

What a week.

2008-04-18T11:21:00.000-07:00

I found out on Wednesday night that I had tonsilitis. What adult gets tonsilitis? Me, apparently. At least it explains my ping-ponging fever, and why I could no longer swallow. Perry was sick last week, me this week, I'm praying the girls stay healthy.

I'm 50 pages from being done with my first pass at revisions - then it's off to the next phase - the Editorial phase - of which I've never been on this side of the coin. Scary! exciting! I'm so ready. Reading all of these authors - these women on the Wild Rose Press message board - I can't wait to say that my book is on the market.

I'm also toying with several ideas on stories for the White Rose Line. So, we'll see what happens next. For today, I need to go play with Ellie. Rachel and Perry are doing the Dino Dad Day at school. Ellie needs some mommy time. If I can work in edge wise around Grandma. Ha!

Coffee and comments

2008-04-14T07:06:00.000-07:00

Listening to: Flight 26
Drinking coffee.
Going through e-mail.
A stack of edits waiting to be entered.
Another week about to begin.

This week, I'll be spending more time at my work work - and less time dealing with new contract stuff, working with marketing at TWRP, etc. The contract is signed and on its way back.

We spent the weekend in Carlsbad, enjoying the sun, surf, and sand. Perry built the most amazing sand castle I've ever seen. Every kid on our part of the beach came by to help out. I have the most amazing husband in the world. It's nice to have him back after he was so sick last week.

The girls are sleeping. I'm going to work a bit on All or Nothing - just wanted to keep honest, as blogging every day is part of my New Years Resolution. Or I should say, new LIFE resoultion. It helps my brain stay flexible. The ideas are coming like water. I'm very impressed with the group of writers at TWRP and need to be able to keep up!

~Ashley

Where do the ideas come from...?

2008-04-11T12:40:00.000-07:00

I'm in a think tank meeting, and I was just realizing that I am one of those people. Those idea people who think, why not? Why can't we do this? instead of that? And what's more... Where do all of the great ideas come from?

I think that most great ideas must stem from people being ticked off in one way or another. Wondering why something doesn't work as well as it should. Or why there isn't a better way to do something. Quicker. Faster. Cheaper. Better. Or maybe that's just me.

I've been thinking about agendas and organizing and planning, and really - I make fits and starts at it - but the question of the week is - what is your 5 year plan for writing?

That one has kept me up at night. So here's the deal with my writing background. I have always written. I used to dictate to my mother and she would read me back my elaborate tales. I fabricated great stories about riding on fire engines, or seeing a gorilla jump up and down on a policeman. (Some call this fibbing or - lieing. I call it a stellar imagination.)

so, I've always written. Since I was a child and could put pencil to paper. When I hyphenated words after consanants. When I misspelled everything. Okay, so I still need to edit myself - but who's asking. The point is, writers write. Because they have to. Because it is in their blood. Because they need to have that fix. Create that universe. Live in an alternate reality. It's who we are.

So, my 5 year plan for my writing is - to be the best writer I can be. To never give up. To write as many stories as I can. Enter contests. Publish multiple titles in e-book and print. To hone my craft. And, to learn how to juggle the important things, and let the little things drop where they may.

I have a few quotes from the prolific Nora Roberts that really made me understand my craft. And what I need to do to get to the next five years.

(I'm paraphrasing - but this is what I remember from her interview...)

"Write. Write the best story you can. Write what you would want to read. Enjoy
your characters. If you don't enjoy them, no one else will, either. Don't play
favorites. And remember, there are 88 keys on the piano - and think of all of
the beautiful and different songs and types of music."

(This is me again) Every story and character is a unique universe. And with regards to my process, I guess you could say that I write with my heart. I write what I have loved to read, or love to read now. Sometimes it's historical. Sometimes it's a mystery. Sometimes a thriller. But there is always a love story at the heart, because I'm a hopeless romantic. As my daughter Rachel reminded me the other day...

"Every story should start with Once upon a time and should end with ...And they lived happily ever after..."

We only have a limited amount of time on this earth - and personally if I read a book, I want to be entertained. To escape for awhile. To fall in love with a place. The sights. The smells. To miss them when I close the cover. And that, my friends, is how I want to write everything I pour my heart into.

A few minutes to organize!

2008-04-10T07:38:00.000-07:00

Listening to: Flight 26 - XM Radio
Things to Do:

Plan and Solitude
Write list of things to do for work
Write list of things to do for kids/Perry
Write list of things to do for me

Today's schedule - thanks to my new online friend - is to plan and organize. I used to do this all of the time - but things have been most frenetic this week. I am a planner. I have to be, as I work from home and if I don't I have that ever present pile of papers staring me in the face. Taunting. Waiting for me to address them. Good heavens - I haven't even filled out my last two months of expense reports! Talk about needing to make a list of things to do.

Today - edits need to go on the back burner.

Author Page Up on The Wild Rose Press

2008-04-09T12:05:00.000-07:00

Well, ladies and gentlemen...I'm officially "in the garden" as they say. I have my author's link up on The Wild Rose Press website. View it here...

I'm also meeting some fantastic fellow authors - the ladies in the garden are most prolific. It's actually most exciting and gives me a great deal of hope that All or Nothing will be more than a single title for me. Those who know me well know that writing has always been my heart's desire. And, wow. Here we are in rewrites.

Speaking of rewrites, here's a note as to progress:
I'm up to page 87 of 304. I feel really good of about 80 of them. (The page number/total changes as I rip scenes out, rewrite the POV, and I have to admit - some I mourn the loss of and others I can't believe I ever clung to as if a liferaft in a stormy sea!)

My overwhelming issue has been with my supporting cast, if you will. Yes, it's interesting to know who they are and how they think and feel, but as Elizabeth has reminded me again and again, the story is about RuthAnne and Bowen. And come to think of it, I'm a glosser over myself when I'm reading chapters such as these. AND when you gloss over your own chapters, that would be a big warning bell I would think.

The Online Writer's group I've joined is really neat. So far, I've "met" an author/cover artist from San Diego - and Canada - and various other well wishers who all lend phenomenal support. I've evaluated my character's opinions about me... (yikes. Never suspected Bowen would consider me a gossip!) and all of that. Crazy. Now I am looking to consider my writing process. Well, fits and starts seems most appropriate these days.

I have a stack of half finished plot outlines, WIPs and scraps of paper with ideas that I had at 3:45 am - which apparently is when my brain wakes up with creative fervor! my body however, flings a pillow over my head and forces me back into a restless slumber. That is, until I'm summoned by two year old Ellie to soothe a nightmare, fetch a cup of water, and now for heaven's sake! take her to the potty. She's 2! she potty trained herself and doesn't even use her pull up at night! must limit her fluid intake prior to bedtime. MUST. *sigh* Maybe I'll finally get the hang of motherhood by the time they go to college.

Of course, last night - my inspiration is this love of time travel romances that is flitting through the garden. I have one in my drawer - in need of a rewrite since many elements from that one migrated to All or Nothing (my stories are by no means monogomous in their pre-published formats).

SO - perhaps this one - Working title "The Hawk and the Raven" - a 3:47 am inspiration - might get my attention next. I will say this. Seeing all of these amazing women working on multiple projects, juggling family, career, life, the universe, and everything is incredibly inspirational. I finally feel like I've found where I belong.

Until tomorrow!

Priorities!

2008-04-08T10:04:00.000-07:00

Guess who was more excited to meet Jasmine and Aladin? Rachel or Me?
FYI: Ellie is missing from Pic as she couldn't stop climbing the Cave of Wonders, and had to be removed by her daddy - whom I am quite sure was bummed about not watching Jasmine. Look at her! I would have been bummed, too!

This morning, Rachel slept in and I spent some serious snuggle time with Ellie watching Dora. Then we wrote names on her Leap Frog clickstart computer. She's learning how to use the mouse. She's also digging the song I taught her to spell her name - what 2 year old can spell Elizabeth? Mine can. :) So proud. Then Rachel came downstairs, hair looking more like Madeline Kahn after becoming Mrs. Frankenstein, asking when Grandma was coming. HOLY COW. My mother's coming out this weekend. My house! Where's the housekeeper! What about my rewrites????

Then I remembered. Priorities. First my immediate family. Then my extended family. Then the rest of my life (writing, work, etc. etc.). I've added a new plate into my juggling routine. I now have to write in order to remain accountable. BUT - suddenly, it's all I want to do. BUT - therein exposes my need to prioritize. Daily. Hourly. By the minute. What the heck am I doing blogging right now, anyway?

Anyway, after a nice note from my editor, I'm able to breathe again. Did I mention how cool it is to write for TWRP? They are endlessly helpful, my fellow authors are enormously encouraging, and I feel I'm drinking from this well off creativity - so much I'm overflowing! However...

It's impossible to maintain a certain level of excitement for an extended period of time. I'm also going to have to step back from the message boards so I can get something done today other than lurk. Ha. SO - this morning, I'm contemplating the questions that the moderator of our online author's group asked of us. Namely:

How does your main character feel about you?
What position do your characters sleep in?
Describe your story in under 25 words.

All challenging. I love this. So, I'm submitting my responses -and must go back to solving the world's bibliographic problems! so that I can pick up my kids and take them to the park. Oh. And go to writer's group tonight. Thank heaven for an understanding husband. If only I could find him underneath all of the laundry.

Things to do today:

2008-04-07T09:59:00.000-07:00

Listening to: Ingrid Michaelson - The Way I Am
Things to do today...

1. work
2. work work work
3. edit All or Nothing for POV
4. send in contract!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
5. e-mail my editor (grin!)
6. pick up the girls
7. dinner? what the heck can I make for dinner?

The phone hasn't stopped ringing all morning. It's been one of those days already. So much to be done, and where to start? That's what I get for praying to be organized. I started plotting my short story submission for TWRP today - and want to work on that...

SO, guess what I'm having to do now? Amazingly, it's the same thing I talk to Rachel about constantly. There are things you WANT to do and things you HAVE to do. The trick is, the careful balancing act that keeps you in the middle. How much of a Libra am I today? :)

Well, if that doesn't explain my mood. Out of balance! Out of my element! Thank heaven for the writers groups and messages of encouragement. Time to make a list of Have Tos so I can get to the Want Tos!

Overwhelmed, and ready to work...

2008-04-06T15:49:00.000-07:00

SO, now the real work starts. All or Nothing - a historical romance, set in the American west - the story of RuthAnne Newcomb and Bowen Shepherd - the patriarchs of the Shepherd clan - whose story I hope to continue writing.

BUT, here goes. I'm the mother of two little girls. Rachel's 4, and Elizabeth is 2. They are my world. The girls, and my sweet husband - who took us all to Disneyland on Friday to celebrate All or Nothing's recent success. :) Sounds corny, but yeah. I got my first book contract, and I went to Disneyland!

At any rate - I also work full time for a large corporation and spend most of my days attempting to be a professional person. If they could only see me in my home office. We joke about my going to work in my bunny slippers and robe. Some days, it isn't far from the truth. NOW, Rachel goes to Preschool, so I have to get my butt out the door - wearing clothes and makeup and having actual conversations wiht real adults. It's kind of exciting for all of us. Let alone, that she's learning sweet little songs like "Where is Jesus?" and making friends that I've never met. I'm loving it, and hanging on a little tighter to Ellie all the while. Their childhood is not something I want to rush. Four years already, and I feel like life is on fastforward.

Still, in the past year, I've refound my ability to write. Something I lost except in fits and starts since the kids came. Last year, I wrote a shortstory that won an award. I completed www.NanoWriMo.org, and I finished All or Nothing. It's been in revisions every since. And now, after some divine inspiration, stepping out on trust, and the support of my phenomenal writer's group - TWRP has put their trust in its success.

Here's to the future. Here's to a budding career as an author. Here is to RuthAnne and Bowen. For all of her strong will and his hard headedness - they found each other. A story wove around them, and the bandit they worked to capture. And here we are. As my mentor Nancy Taylor Rosenberg said, "Writing is re-writing." and you know what? It's okay by me.

Tomorrow, the contract goes in the mail. I continue to attack the dreaded POV and weather report issues that I'm sure plague my story. I continue plotting WIP #2 "The God Quotient" and WIP #3 "Mammoth Secrets" - we'll see which one takes off first. And, another day goes on. I am so blessed to have a hubby that is behind me, even if all of this process mystifies him to no end, and two little girls who hang on me. I wouldn't have it any other way.

I have never been more nervous or excited all at once.

I'm in the Garden!

2008-04-03T14:58:00.000-07:00

Well, it finally happened today. I think I'm having an out of body experience. I'm really doing it. I'm getting published. I am an author. I did it. I have an editor who believes in me, my ability, and everything I've read and researched about them is wonderful. My editor gets back to me, she is giving me great advice, I have my notes and I'm off to start the next revision.

She sent the contract...and all of the paperwork... and I didn't get one of those knife-in-the-heart moments, when the rug gets pulled from your feet and you realize they want money from you. Not a moment's hesitation while reading the contract, wondering, are these people for real? It is just good business. An excellent plan. Talk of cover art, edits, galleys, and production.

I'm doing the happy dance! All or Nothing is going to be published... BREATHE.

Thank you, Wild Rose Press for believing in this book!

Now, the real work starts. Once again - I'm thrilled to do it. I have reams of papers to read and fill out, and edits to begin.