I am happy to announce that I am done with "I Remember." I have finished with the rewrites and my part of the editing and it is now in the hands of my editor.
While I am waiting to hear what kind of changes are needed in the book, I am already putting the final touches on the outline to part two in the Remembrance Series, called "Loving You." Thanks to pulling a major scene and pushing it into this book, I already have a 7,000+ word head start.
The day I finished, I took a moment to reflect on how long this journey has taken and how wonderful it feels to have completed it. I decided to take a few days to catch up on some much needed sleep and reading. My TBR (to be read) pile has grown considerably and it is time to take a few books out of the pile.
Some may ask, why spend time reading when you should be writing. (I have actually been asked this question numerous times.) The answer is easy...sometimes when you are writing, you stumble across a brick wall, or writer's block. I don't know about everyone else, but for me, I like to step away from the scene and either jump to another area of the book or stop working on it entirely and read a book. I find that reading allows my mind to let go of anxiety, imagine, and become one with the story. It also provides you with new thoughts and ideas. Let me ask this, "How many times have you read a story and said to yourself, 'That's a nice idea, but what if it went this way instead?'" That is the writer in all of us! This is why we read a lot!
Today I decided to take a look at a story that I have had on hold while I finished up my other story. I have decided to go through a round of edits, to refresh me on the story and hoping to start back up on writing by next week. I am about two-thirds complete with the story at this point and would like to see what I can do to complete it, before bouncing back to my other series. Besides, the two main characters are giving me heck in my dreams, demanding that I complete this portion of their story! :-)
I am also trying to get everything finalized for my website, so it can finally be up and running. I will let everyone know on here when it is ready to go. Also, be sure to check back sometime within the next week. I will go ahead and post my cover for I Remember.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Friday, March 29, 2013
Monday, March 18, 2013
Edits, Edits, and More Edits
Can you tell, by the title, what I am working on? LOL.
I made a rookie mistake of getting too detailed and wordy with the first book and I am now paying my dues trying to tighten the story and trim as much as possible. I have been doing an on again/off again, approach to the editing, so I don't become numb to the story line.
To date, I have been able to trim 25,000+ words, pushed one major scene over to book two, Loving You, (which now has a good start at 6,000+ words) and am slowly approaching the end of my editing. Only about 75 pages left. Can I get a big WOOHOO, from everyone?!
My only fear is that I still need to cut some more. There are two scenes that are emotional, but could due with less detail and still have the book survive. However, I am holding out until I absolutely have to trim them, because they mean a great deal to me. Plus, I fear a scene that I am coming up on needs several more lines of clarification.
Sorry this blog is short this week, but my focus is on getting this done. I want to stop talking about the book and release it already!
Back to editing.... ;-)
I made a rookie mistake of getting too detailed and wordy with the first book and I am now paying my dues trying to tighten the story and trim as much as possible. I have been doing an on again/off again, approach to the editing, so I don't become numb to the story line.
To date, I have been able to trim 25,000+ words, pushed one major scene over to book two, Loving You, (which now has a good start at 6,000+ words) and am slowly approaching the end of my editing. Only about 75 pages left. Can I get a big WOOHOO, from everyone?!
My only fear is that I still need to cut some more. There are two scenes that are emotional, but could due with less detail and still have the book survive. However, I am holding out until I absolutely have to trim them, because they mean a great deal to me. Plus, I fear a scene that I am coming up on needs several more lines of clarification.
Sorry this blog is short this week, but my focus is on getting this done. I want to stop talking about the book and release it already!
Back to editing.... ;-)
Monday, March 11, 2013
What Are You Working On?
I have written posts about my first Valentine's with my sweetie, about sources of negativity that has, at times, affected my ability to write, and about how much is involved in getting a thought from your head to actual publication. But, I just realized that I never mentioned anything about my works in progress (WIP).
For eight years, I held a story idea in my head, never fully believing that I had the ability to convey the concept into words. I allowed the story to grow, gathering new insights and details, based on my life and the world around me. Try as I might, I was never able to complete the vision or allow myself to write it down.
Several months later, some of my mom friends were discussing various books and authors. We compared our likes and dislikes of various genres, when one finally asked, "Have you ever written anything, and if so have you thought about writing a Young Adult novel? They are currently quite popular for a variety of age groups."
I had admitted to writing a couple of children's books, tales my father had spun to me as a child, that I wanted my family to know. Our group encouraged me to give it a try, but I dismissed the idea, or so I thought, until my dreams started to demand the written word.
Over the course of the next week, the tale in my head intensified through my dreams and played out to fruition. I discussed the concept with my husband, wondering what I should do. He told me not to dismiss the idea and give it a try. He said, "You never know until you try. If it is something you want to do, I will support you. But, you need to take that first step."
He was right. I fought the idea of sitting and writing, believing myself doomed to failure before I even started. However, my story would not let up, as the characters developed even further until one day I found myself in front of my laptop and began to type out a few words. Granted, it took six attempts to get the right words to start the book, and since then I have completely re-written the beginning, but it was enough to get me going.
I promised myself that if I reached 50 pages, I would keep going. Then, once I hit 100 pages, I would commit to the next 100, until the book was complete. Of course, I stopped, started, stopped, started, and so on, thanks to negativity, fear, and a severe case of writer's block, along with the need to continually edit what I had written, to ensure perfection, before finally letting go.
So after much time and effort, the first book in the series is ready to come out soon. The cover will be revealed on my author Facebook page this week. My final round of edits, prior to an editor, will be done by end of week. So I do not have a release date as of yet, but hope to soon.
But, what is the book about? It is called I Remember, part 1 of 4 in the Remembrance Series. It follows two main characters, a hero named Gregory and a heroine named Jordan, who discover an inexplicable bond to one another. They share similar dreams about both the present and past and have been given clues to unlock the mystery of who they actually are. Along the way, they unleash mysterious capabilities that defy explanation and they learn of a darkness set to destroy all that stands in its way. They are guided by a divine visionary to help right where their paths went askew in the past, but will it be enough to keep their future moving forward?
Some questions that might come from this book are: If you are faced with death, can you see life? Can the heart trust or can it be clouded with judgement? If you discovered you were born to hold back the evil of humanity, could you go forward on that path or would you try to alter it? and of course... Is love strong enough to survive against all odds, even one that can destroy life?
Just wait and see....
For eight years, I held a story idea in my head, never fully believing that I had the ability to convey the concept into words. I allowed the story to grow, gathering new insights and details, based on my life and the world around me. Try as I might, I was never able to complete the vision or allow myself to write it down.
Several months later, some of my mom friends were discussing various books and authors. We compared our likes and dislikes of various genres, when one finally asked, "Have you ever written anything, and if so have you thought about writing a Young Adult novel? They are currently quite popular for a variety of age groups."
I had admitted to writing a couple of children's books, tales my father had spun to me as a child, that I wanted my family to know. Our group encouraged me to give it a try, but I dismissed the idea, or so I thought, until my dreams started to demand the written word.
Over the course of the next week, the tale in my head intensified through my dreams and played out to fruition. I discussed the concept with my husband, wondering what I should do. He told me not to dismiss the idea and give it a try. He said, "You never know until you try. If it is something you want to do, I will support you. But, you need to take that first step."
He was right. I fought the idea of sitting and writing, believing myself doomed to failure before I even started. However, my story would not let up, as the characters developed even further until one day I found myself in front of my laptop and began to type out a few words. Granted, it took six attempts to get the right words to start the book, and since then I have completely re-written the beginning, but it was enough to get me going.
I promised myself that if I reached 50 pages, I would keep going. Then, once I hit 100 pages, I would commit to the next 100, until the book was complete. Of course, I stopped, started, stopped, started, and so on, thanks to negativity, fear, and a severe case of writer's block, along with the need to continually edit what I had written, to ensure perfection, before finally letting go.
So after much time and effort, the first book in the series is ready to come out soon. The cover will be revealed on my author Facebook page this week. My final round of edits, prior to an editor, will be done by end of week. So I do not have a release date as of yet, but hope to soon.
But, what is the book about? It is called I Remember, part 1 of 4 in the Remembrance Series. It follows two main characters, a hero named Gregory and a heroine named Jordan, who discover an inexplicable bond to one another. They share similar dreams about both the present and past and have been given clues to unlock the mystery of who they actually are. Along the way, they unleash mysterious capabilities that defy explanation and they learn of a darkness set to destroy all that stands in its way. They are guided by a divine visionary to help right where their paths went askew in the past, but will it be enough to keep their future moving forward?
Some questions that might come from this book are: If you are faced with death, can you see life? Can the heart trust or can it be clouded with judgement? If you discovered you were born to hold back the evil of humanity, could you go forward on that path or would you try to alter it? and of course... Is love strong enough to survive against all odds, even one that can destroy life?
Just wait and see....
Thursday, March 7, 2013
What's Taking So Long?
I have been asked this question, numerous times, by a variety of people. A little over a year ago, I would be asking someone the same thing if I found out they were writing a book. I, too, had believed that all that was required was to write it, send it out to get published and then wait for it to appear online to buy. Seems simple enough; however, there are so many steps one must follow to get to the finish line.
An author first has to have a good idea, obviously, then they have to research it to make sure no one else has anything too similar. If they do, they must rethink their writing plan or write something entirely new. After the research regarding your initial thoughts, other investigation may be required, especially if you are writing anything factual in terms of medical, health, certain business processes, historical accuracy, specifics on cars, geographical locations, the list is endless.
Once the idea is in place and the research is completed, one can start to write. For some, they have the ability to write everyday, a certain amount of time a day and can complete things in quick order. But, for others, you are limited by your environment. If I had the time to just sit and devote to nothing other than writing, I could probably pop out a book every few months or more. Unfortunately, that is not the case for me. My family takes priority with their needs coming first, with schooling, work hours, errand running, cooking, and so forth, essentially all the duties that would typically accompany a mother and wife. So my writing time is severely limited to early mornings, late evenings, the wee hours past midnight and the occasional weekend. So my pace is a little slower than some, but each day I add a little more to the process and take one step closer to my goals: Finishing my first book (done), editing it (in process), cover art (done), beta/critique readers (waiting for the final edits), setting up an Author Twitter page (done), setting up an Author Facebook page (done), setting up a blog (done), setting up a website (work in progress), setting my information up on Goodreads, Amazon and Barnes & Noble (still to do), releasing the book (holding pattern - trying to determine date)....once again the list is endless.
There are so many steps involved in the process of a story. When the book is done, you have to go back through it to edit areas you find are unnecessary, overly stated, not enough information, could be left out entirely, and so on. Then you have to secure an editor to read over what you have written, as they can help smooth things out, show you details you missed and essentially assist in tightening up your writing. After the editor, you sometimes consider enlisting the help of a proofreader, to help pinpoint errors in grammar, sentence structure, misuse of words, and even spelling mistakes or type-o's. Once this is done, you make all the corrections and then send to your beta/critique readers, to see if what you have done is appealing to them or if they have suggestions on what would make the story even better. During all of this, if you are tyring to get picked up by a publishing house, you have to submit query letters that summarize your work in a couple small paragraphs, to various literary agents and hope to get positive responses back and wait, for an undetermined amount of time. If you choose the become an Indie (independent) author, you try to locate a cover artist who can best represent your book. One has to admit, that when looking for a good book to read it is the cover that first draws you in and then the blurb on the back of the book that entices you further. So these two items must be perfect.
While all the above is going on, you need to start branding your name or advertising yourself, via means of the Internet, word of mouth, attending various author events, and so forth. You could wait until it is released, but why, when you can put some effort into it now. So one needs to decide on how much time they will allot to this action and begin the marketing side of things, along with the writing, and your everyday life.
When you have all of the processes done, though I think I may be missing a few bits and pieces here and there, but at least you get the general idea that there is more to this than just writing and getting it published, you then have to focus on publication. If you get signed with an agent and a publishing house, then you have to move at their schedule and what they want to do with your book. If you are an indie author you have the responsibility of getting things done by setting a release date, printing the books, uploading the books to the various websites for purchase (Amazon, B & N, Smashwords, etc.), scheduling a book release party and doing a lot of public relations/marketing for your book. One author friend summed up the process very nicely to me in these simple words, "Writing is about 10% talent and 90% being able to market yourself." While I disagree about the low percentage of it being talent, which I feel is a much higher number, it is about being able to represent yourself to the public and getting them to listen. Once you have their attention and they read the book, it is then carried by word of mouth, reviews, and so forth.
My apologies on the length of this blog, but I wanted to emphasize there is more to writing and publishing than what the words suggest. I admit I have taken a long time to get the first book done. I will honestly state that I have stopped writing on numerous occasions falling into the negativity zone buying into the idea that writing was a waste of my time, nearly giving up entirely on the idea of my dream. But, once I finally realized that writing made me happy and that I am doing it for myself and my family, I committed to the idea of seeing everything through to completion and have since been moving much faster. Granted there are still hiccups in the road from time to time, but I strive to spend at least an hour or more on writing/editing, every day, to ensure it is a part of my daily routine. I have also learned to just write, not continually re-read and edit everything to get all things perfect right out of the starting gate. If you do this you will never make your way down the track unless you learn to let go, write freely and know that you can go back and fix things when you are done; getting to the finish line is priority. This is one reason my writing was slow in the beginning, I wanted perfection up front and did not allow myself to progress.
As for the status of the first book, it is completed, in terms of writing, just needing to finish the final steps in preparation process for release, which will happen this year. I don't have a date set, but as soon as I know something I will post it on here. I already have an outline to books two and three in the first series and have written a couple of scenes for book four. The second series I have been working on, kind of back and forth, has one book nearly done (which I also plan on releasing this year), the cover art has already been selected and so on. I have an outline to the second, in the series, nearly complete and the third of the series will have to wait for now, though I have several ideas. I have been trying to keep new ideas about other books at bay, only writing down what I have to, in order to keep my focus, since it is easy to get caught up in a new thought. I have established a tentative schedule of what I am writing, when, how long I will allow myself on it and when I would like to see publication, barring any unforeseen factors that life can sometimes throw at you. So I use the word "tentative" loosely.
I am hoping this blog helps everyone understand all that is involved in getting from point A to point B in terms of writing. Essentially, ALOT!!! Plus, from what I hear, the first book is always the hardest because you want it to be perfect, putting so much extra care into it, which I am definitely guilty of.
Have a great week everyone!
An author first has to have a good idea, obviously, then they have to research it to make sure no one else has anything too similar. If they do, they must rethink their writing plan or write something entirely new. After the research regarding your initial thoughts, other investigation may be required, especially if you are writing anything factual in terms of medical, health, certain business processes, historical accuracy, specifics on cars, geographical locations, the list is endless.
Once the idea is in place and the research is completed, one can start to write. For some, they have the ability to write everyday, a certain amount of time a day and can complete things in quick order. But, for others, you are limited by your environment. If I had the time to just sit and devote to nothing other than writing, I could probably pop out a book every few months or more. Unfortunately, that is not the case for me. My family takes priority with their needs coming first, with schooling, work hours, errand running, cooking, and so forth, essentially all the duties that would typically accompany a mother and wife. So my writing time is severely limited to early mornings, late evenings, the wee hours past midnight and the occasional weekend. So my pace is a little slower than some, but each day I add a little more to the process and take one step closer to my goals: Finishing my first book (done), editing it (in process), cover art (done), beta/critique readers (waiting for the final edits), setting up an Author Twitter page (done), setting up an Author Facebook page (done), setting up a blog (done), setting up a website (work in progress), setting my information up on Goodreads, Amazon and Barnes & Noble (still to do), releasing the book (holding pattern - trying to determine date)....once again the list is endless.
There are so many steps involved in the process of a story. When the book is done, you have to go back through it to edit areas you find are unnecessary, overly stated, not enough information, could be left out entirely, and so on. Then you have to secure an editor to read over what you have written, as they can help smooth things out, show you details you missed and essentially assist in tightening up your writing. After the editor, you sometimes consider enlisting the help of a proofreader, to help pinpoint errors in grammar, sentence structure, misuse of words, and even spelling mistakes or type-o's. Once this is done, you make all the corrections and then send to your beta/critique readers, to see if what you have done is appealing to them or if they have suggestions on what would make the story even better. During all of this, if you are tyring to get picked up by a publishing house, you have to submit query letters that summarize your work in a couple small paragraphs, to various literary agents and hope to get positive responses back and wait, for an undetermined amount of time. If you choose the become an Indie (independent) author, you try to locate a cover artist who can best represent your book. One has to admit, that when looking for a good book to read it is the cover that first draws you in and then the blurb on the back of the book that entices you further. So these two items must be perfect.
While all the above is going on, you need to start branding your name or advertising yourself, via means of the Internet, word of mouth, attending various author events, and so forth. You could wait until it is released, but why, when you can put some effort into it now. So one needs to decide on how much time they will allot to this action and begin the marketing side of things, along with the writing, and your everyday life.
When you have all of the processes done, though I think I may be missing a few bits and pieces here and there, but at least you get the general idea that there is more to this than just writing and getting it published, you then have to focus on publication. If you get signed with an agent and a publishing house, then you have to move at their schedule and what they want to do with your book. If you are an indie author you have the responsibility of getting things done by setting a release date, printing the books, uploading the books to the various websites for purchase (Amazon, B & N, Smashwords, etc.), scheduling a book release party and doing a lot of public relations/marketing for your book. One author friend summed up the process very nicely to me in these simple words, "Writing is about 10% talent and 90% being able to market yourself." While I disagree about the low percentage of it being talent, which I feel is a much higher number, it is about being able to represent yourself to the public and getting them to listen. Once you have their attention and they read the book, it is then carried by word of mouth, reviews, and so forth.
My apologies on the length of this blog, but I wanted to emphasize there is more to writing and publishing than what the words suggest. I admit I have taken a long time to get the first book done. I will honestly state that I have stopped writing on numerous occasions falling into the negativity zone buying into the idea that writing was a waste of my time, nearly giving up entirely on the idea of my dream. But, once I finally realized that writing made me happy and that I am doing it for myself and my family, I committed to the idea of seeing everything through to completion and have since been moving much faster. Granted there are still hiccups in the road from time to time, but I strive to spend at least an hour or more on writing/editing, every day, to ensure it is a part of my daily routine. I have also learned to just write, not continually re-read and edit everything to get all things perfect right out of the starting gate. If you do this you will never make your way down the track unless you learn to let go, write freely and know that you can go back and fix things when you are done; getting to the finish line is priority. This is one reason my writing was slow in the beginning, I wanted perfection up front and did not allow myself to progress.
As for the status of the first book, it is completed, in terms of writing, just needing to finish the final steps in preparation process for release, which will happen this year. I don't have a date set, but as soon as I know something I will post it on here. I already have an outline to books two and three in the first series and have written a couple of scenes for book four. The second series I have been working on, kind of back and forth, has one book nearly done (which I also plan on releasing this year), the cover art has already been selected and so on. I have an outline to the second, in the series, nearly complete and the third of the series will have to wait for now, though I have several ideas. I have been trying to keep new ideas about other books at bay, only writing down what I have to, in order to keep my focus, since it is easy to get caught up in a new thought. I have established a tentative schedule of what I am writing, when, how long I will allow myself on it and when I would like to see publication, barring any unforeseen factors that life can sometimes throw at you. So I use the word "tentative" loosely.
I am hoping this blog helps everyone understand all that is involved in getting from point A to point B in terms of writing. Essentially, ALOT!!! Plus, from what I hear, the first book is always the hardest because you want it to be perfect, putting so much extra care into it, which I am definitely guilty of.
Have a great week everyone!
Monday, February 25, 2013
Negativity - A Writer's Demise
I know the title is a bit strange, but the topic of negativity is forever present in the life of a writer. Granted I have tons of ideas in a variety of different genres to write about. However, for every idea and for every person who says, "Go for it," I have at least two or three people who try to tell me otherwise.
The statements, "What makes you think you can write?" "Why bother?" "You are just wasting your time." "Couldn't you do something more constructive?" "Who would want to read something like that?" The comments are endless and to say a little hurtful.
My stories started to develop in my mind about eight years ago, but I failed to write anything down, because the mere mention of writing ended with the above comments. The naysayers kept my thoughts at bay, until the stories continued to build and finally my family, and a few friends, sat me down and said to go for it.
I finally sat down to writing my first story a little over a year ago. It was hard allowing my mind to wonder and just let go, as I kept hearing those wonderful statements fill my mind. So the work ethic of starting, stopping, feeling like giving up, starting again, stopping again, and...well you see the pattern, started to develop.
It wasn't until I recently committed to become a writer, found a couple of author groups that welcomed me in and guided me along the way that I finally decided....WHO CARES what others think! I love to write. It makes me happy and I enjoy it. I don't have to be a mega success like Stephanie Meyer or E.L. James, Sylvia Day, or Nora Roberts. To me, the greatest success in writing would be to see my book available for sale on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords and any other areas that I can possibly think off. If a few people like it, then great, but I am doing something I love, so what is wrong with that!
I guess what I am trying to get across is that if you are an author or would like to give it a try, then go for it! Don't listen to those around you. If you love writing then by all means do it. Negativity is a writer's worst enemy. Buy into it and you are sure to fail; ignore it and the world of writing is only limited by your imagination.
The statements, "What makes you think you can write?" "Why bother?" "You are just wasting your time." "Couldn't you do something more constructive?" "Who would want to read something like that?" The comments are endless and to say a little hurtful.
My stories started to develop in my mind about eight years ago, but I failed to write anything down, because the mere mention of writing ended with the above comments. The naysayers kept my thoughts at bay, until the stories continued to build and finally my family, and a few friends, sat me down and said to go for it.
I finally sat down to writing my first story a little over a year ago. It was hard allowing my mind to wonder and just let go, as I kept hearing those wonderful statements fill my mind. So the work ethic of starting, stopping, feeling like giving up, starting again, stopping again, and...well you see the pattern, started to develop.
It wasn't until I recently committed to become a writer, found a couple of author groups that welcomed me in and guided me along the way that I finally decided....WHO CARES what others think! I love to write. It makes me happy and I enjoy it. I don't have to be a mega success like Stephanie Meyer or E.L. James, Sylvia Day, or Nora Roberts. To me, the greatest success in writing would be to see my book available for sale on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords and any other areas that I can possibly think off. If a few people like it, then great, but I am doing something I love, so what is wrong with that!
I guess what I am trying to get across is that if you are an author or would like to give it a try, then go for it! Don't listen to those around you. If you love writing then by all means do it. Negativity is a writer's worst enemy. Buy into it and you are sure to fail; ignore it and the world of writing is only limited by your imagination.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
My 1st Married Valentine's
Valentine's Day, and I, never really meshed well in the past. My hopes for my first ever Valentine's, with my newly married husband, was quickly approaching. We were, each, secretly planning a memorable day for the other. I had plans on purchasing some wonderful chocolate covered strawberries from one of the local chocolatiers and along with a bottle of his favorite champagne. I had already been perusing the store ads to see who had the best price on some surf and turf options for dinner. A romantic dinner by candlelight, with soft music playing in the background was definitely in the foreseeable future.
I felt giddy with anticipation of this Valentine's going off without a hinge, especially since the previous year had permanently tainted the month of February for me, with the death of my father. My hubby was out to prove that good memories could be made. He kept telling me this would be a Valentine's to remember!
Something in me told me to hesitate on buying everything. I could not understand why, but would soon find out. Less than a week before Valentine's Day, my husband calls me up with the distressing news, "Honey, I am sorry to tell you this, but we may have to postpone our Valentine's celebration. The company has some issues at our south Florida office and I am being sent down to try and straighten up their mess. They want me to drive down tomorrow morning, for an indefinite stay."
My heart numbed, as the words slowly sank in. "How can they do this? Don't they realize we have only been married for a couple of months?" Tears began to form at the corners of my eyes, wondering why every Valentine's was doomed to repeat itself.
My husband came home that night and took me out to a romantic dinner, in an attempt to smooth things over. "Believe me when I say that I would rather be here with you. I know how much you needed this week to be wonderful and I promise to do my best to make sure it is!"
The next morning came and I kissed and hugged him tightly, before he pulled out of the driveway, taking my heart with him. Work helped to keep me busy, but my peers continual chatter over their plans for Valentine's put a damper on my spirits.
As promised, my husband called me several times a day to let me know how much he loved and missed me. Neither one of us could go to bed without talking with the other. He kept getting surprised by the numerous cards I had placed strategically throughout the course of his suitcase, expressing how much I loved and missed him. In turn, I kept receiving cards in the mail, one a day, telling me how much he wished I were with him.
Valentine's day came and I went to work, not wanting to hear of everybodys plans for the evening or seeing the various romantic deliveries being dropped off at the office. I managed to hide out in my office for most of the day, diving head first into work. It wasn't until late afternoon that I received a call from the reception area, citing an issue with one of the computers. I walked to the front and saw the biggest arrangement of long stemmed red roses, I had ever encountered, along with a bouquet of balloons. I quickly asked which computer was causing problems, when everyone smiled and said the arrangements were mine.
I walked over to the flowers, and nervously looked at the card. I could not believe that it had my name on it. My hand shook as I removed the note, which read, "To the love of my life, my reason for existence. I cannot wait to hold you in my arms tomorrow. You are my forever Valentine! Loving you always and forever, your hubby."
My mind instantly honed in on the words tomorrow. Before I knew it, a phone was being thrust into my hand and I heard his voice, "I hope I have managed to save some portion of Valentine's honey. Know that if I had my way I would be with you right now. Unfortunately, the best I can do is fly in tomorrow and show you just how much you mean to me. Can you pick me up tomorrow at the airport?" Tears streamed down my eyes at his attempt to keep this day special.
The next day I left work early to go to the airport and pick him up. I awaited anxiously with a long stemmed red rose and Mylar balloon in one hand and his favorite chocolate covered strawberries in the other. My heart began to sink when his plane arrived at the gate, but he was nowhere to be found. Then, without warning, I felt familiar arms encircle around my waist, as he kissed me gently below the earlobe, whispering, "You are my forever love, my forever Valentine. I have missed holding you in my arms." I turned around to get lost in his kiss.
Our Valentine's day may not have gone as planned, but that day and the weekend will forever live as one of the most memorable times of my life.
Happy Valentine's Day Everyone!
I felt giddy with anticipation of this Valentine's going off without a hinge, especially since the previous year had permanently tainted the month of February for me, with the death of my father. My hubby was out to prove that good memories could be made. He kept telling me this would be a Valentine's to remember!
Something in me told me to hesitate on buying everything. I could not understand why, but would soon find out. Less than a week before Valentine's Day, my husband calls me up with the distressing news, "Honey, I am sorry to tell you this, but we may have to postpone our Valentine's celebration. The company has some issues at our south Florida office and I am being sent down to try and straighten up their mess. They want me to drive down tomorrow morning, for an indefinite stay."
My heart numbed, as the words slowly sank in. "How can they do this? Don't they realize we have only been married for a couple of months?" Tears began to form at the corners of my eyes, wondering why every Valentine's was doomed to repeat itself.
My husband came home that night and took me out to a romantic dinner, in an attempt to smooth things over. "Believe me when I say that I would rather be here with you. I know how much you needed this week to be wonderful and I promise to do my best to make sure it is!"
The next morning came and I kissed and hugged him tightly, before he pulled out of the driveway, taking my heart with him. Work helped to keep me busy, but my peers continual chatter over their plans for Valentine's put a damper on my spirits.
As promised, my husband called me several times a day to let me know how much he loved and missed me. Neither one of us could go to bed without talking with the other. He kept getting surprised by the numerous cards I had placed strategically throughout the course of his suitcase, expressing how much I loved and missed him. In turn, I kept receiving cards in the mail, one a day, telling me how much he wished I were with him.
Valentine's day came and I went to work, not wanting to hear of everybodys plans for the evening or seeing the various romantic deliveries being dropped off at the office. I managed to hide out in my office for most of the day, diving head first into work. It wasn't until late afternoon that I received a call from the reception area, citing an issue with one of the computers. I walked to the front and saw the biggest arrangement of long stemmed red roses, I had ever encountered, along with a bouquet of balloons. I quickly asked which computer was causing problems, when everyone smiled and said the arrangements were mine.
I walked over to the flowers, and nervously looked at the card. I could not believe that it had my name on it. My hand shook as I removed the note, which read, "To the love of my life, my reason for existence. I cannot wait to hold you in my arms tomorrow. You are my forever Valentine! Loving you always and forever, your hubby."
My mind instantly honed in on the words tomorrow. Before I knew it, a phone was being thrust into my hand and I heard his voice, "I hope I have managed to save some portion of Valentine's honey. Know that if I had my way I would be with you right now. Unfortunately, the best I can do is fly in tomorrow and show you just how much you mean to me. Can you pick me up tomorrow at the airport?" Tears streamed down my eyes at his attempt to keep this day special.
The next day I left work early to go to the airport and pick him up. I awaited anxiously with a long stemmed red rose and Mylar balloon in one hand and his favorite chocolate covered strawberries in the other. My heart began to sink when his plane arrived at the gate, but he was nowhere to be found. Then, without warning, I felt familiar arms encircle around my waist, as he kissed me gently below the earlobe, whispering, "You are my forever love, my forever Valentine. I have missed holding you in my arms." I turned around to get lost in his kiss.
Our Valentine's day may not have gone as planned, but that day and the weekend will forever live as one of the most memorable times of my life.
Happy Valentine's Day Everyone!
Sunday, February 10, 2013
A Chance at Love, A Lifetime of Loss
Since Valentine's Day is quickly approaching, with stories of forever love, I thought it would be nice to tell of the day going horribly wrong and share with you a short story regarding the worst date for Valentine's Day. Enjoy!
There are stories of love in the air and visions of Cupid flittering about with his bow drawn, ready to aim his heart tipped arrow at the first person he sees that is lonely. Well in my estimation, Cupid is blind as a bat!
I used to be one who dreamed of having Cupid's arrow hit my heart, where I would fall in love on Valentine's Day; having the perfect date, with the perfect guy and of course, dare I say again, the perfect kiss?! Sadly, fate played a much darker card turning my Valentine's romance into a Valentine's nightmare.
Chloe started her week off with a wonderful start. Her workplace was shifting some individuals around to one of their new offices, opening up some of the managerial positions at the financial institution where she worked. Her boss, Derrick, offered her the chance to move up from an administrative assistant to an entry level manager of the business division. To top things off, the guy she had been conversing with online, Vincent, for weeks on end, wanted to take her out to a romantic dinner, at the end of the week on Valentine's Day. Everything in her life appeared to be falling into place for the first time in her life.
Mid-week came and Chloe received a call from her mother, mid-day at work. She lifted the receiver with trepidation, knowing her family would only call work in the event of an emergency.
"Honey, I hate to bother you at work, but it's your father. He passed out, fell and hit his head on the coffee table at home. We are, currently, at the emergency room where he is being admitted and tests are being run to determine why he passed out and why he hasn't been eating much the past couple of weeks," her mother, Sandra, stated.
"I'll talk to Derrick and see if I can get a few days off work. I should be able to make to your place by early evening. Is there anything I can do in the meantime?" I asked, feeling totally helpless and heartbroken all in one.
"No honey, just get here when you can."
Derrick offered to give me as much time off as I needed, offering to loan me some of his vacation time, if necessary to allow me to care for my family. He was a strong manager, but somehow had a soft side when it came to her.
Over the course of the next two days, the doctors ran numerous tests on Chloe's father until they finally had an answer.
She felt her heart being ripped from her chest, as Dr. Smithson explained, "I'm very sorry to inform you that Mr. Logan has an advanced stage brain tumor that is inoperable. We estimate his life expectancy to be a few weeks, at best. How he has managed to live this far without and symptoms is beyond comprehension. All we can do now is to keep him comfortable."
Chloe entered her father's hospital room, wondering what to say, when her father spoke instead, "You still going on your date for Valentine's?"
"Why would I do that while you are in here dad?"
"Because I don't want to ruin your day and would prefer you go have a little fun. You know your mother and I only want your happiness and who knows, maybe this guy could be your Prince Charming." The determined smile on his face showed that he would not be reckoned with, despite the situation.
I argued my case anyway, but mom suggested I give in to appease my father and give him some hope. If it were only that simple. I knew I was in no condition to enjoy going out on a date, especially not a first date with someone I hadn't met in person before. However, despite my better judgement, I called Vincent, explained the chaos going on in my life and to my surprise he wanted to continue with our date, even requesting to pick me up at my apartment.
I answered the door to a tall, very tan, dark haired, blue eyed goddess. Vincent was definitely everything his picture had promised. My heart had skipped a beat when he said, "Hello Chloe."
My common sense told me I should make apologies and call the date off, but I made a promise to my father and I couldn't pass up this fine specimen of manhood. Apparently, my dog had the same hesitation, because the sight of Vincent caused him to bark and growl continually, until I asked Vincent to wait down the hallway for me to grab my things and lock up.
Vincent was the courtly gentleman, holding my hand as he led me towards his SUV. Once there, he opened the door and reached in to pull out a long-stemmed red rose that smelled amazing.
We ended up eating at a local Italian restaurant, close to my apartment. Our conversation started out fine; however, my mind kept drifting to thoughts of my parents, in particular, my father. I could not shake the feeling that I needed to be with him, because his time was drawing short.
Despite my best efforts, I could tell Vincent was growing frustrated. He kept demanding I pay him my full attention, otherwise he would leave. I tried to explain my worries and how I was feeling. His only response, "You are born, you grow up, you die and then life moves on. Deal with it!"
I respectfully requested that we call the date off and maybe try another time. I guess I should have mashed the trigger to a ticking time bomb instead. He excused himself from the table to go "calm his nerves," only he didn't return. Instead I ended up paying for the entire meal, having to call a cab home, only to have an email waiting for me calling me, "A cold hearted witch, who was a waste of his time."
The next day I grabbed some things and headed back to my parent's house. While in route, I called Derrick on his cell, to update him on my father's health and the need to take a couple of weeks off.
Derrick sensed I was hurting and asked, as a friend, to tell him what was bothering me. I took the opportunity to vent, so we ended up talking the full two hours of my drive. He managed to soothe my nerves, calling my date a callous individual who may enjoy taking advantage of others. He felt Vincent would have left me with the bill either way and it was probably best that our date had gone so horribly wrong.
My nerves had calmed by the time I reached my father's hospital room. He instantly asked about the date, so I simply explained we were just not a match.
Over the course of the next week, my father's health took a turn for the worse. We could tell his life was slowly slipping away from us.
Derrick, at first, called every couple of days to see how I was handling things. When he heard that my father might only have days remaining, his calls came daily, with words of wisdom, offers to sit with us or help us with anything we might need.
To my surprise, after my father had passed and my heart felt crushed, Derrick continued to call, even dropping by to offer his condolences during the viewing. His friendship did not stop after I returned to work. Over time it developed into something deeper; love.
I guess everyone can tell that the worst Valentine's Day/date of my life, also turned into one of the best. The following year, I did not have a date with a potential boyfriend for Valentine's. Instead, I had a date with my first Valentine's Day with my wonderful husband, Derrick! ;-)
Here's hoping your Valentine's is something special. If you end up having a terrible date, don't despair. Sometimes out of horrid situations, comes the hope of eternal love.
I know...I couldn't go through with making it the worst date ever. I am a sucker for a happy ending. Now to those who know me...can you pick out what parts are fiction and what parts are reality?
There are stories of love in the air and visions of Cupid flittering about with his bow drawn, ready to aim his heart tipped arrow at the first person he sees that is lonely. Well in my estimation, Cupid is blind as a bat!
I used to be one who dreamed of having Cupid's arrow hit my heart, where I would fall in love on Valentine's Day; having the perfect date, with the perfect guy and of course, dare I say again, the perfect kiss?! Sadly, fate played a much darker card turning my Valentine's romance into a Valentine's nightmare.
Chloe started her week off with a wonderful start. Her workplace was shifting some individuals around to one of their new offices, opening up some of the managerial positions at the financial institution where she worked. Her boss, Derrick, offered her the chance to move up from an administrative assistant to an entry level manager of the business division. To top things off, the guy she had been conversing with online, Vincent, for weeks on end, wanted to take her out to a romantic dinner, at the end of the week on Valentine's Day. Everything in her life appeared to be falling into place for the first time in her life.
Mid-week came and Chloe received a call from her mother, mid-day at work. She lifted the receiver with trepidation, knowing her family would only call work in the event of an emergency.
"Honey, I hate to bother you at work, but it's your father. He passed out, fell and hit his head on the coffee table at home. We are, currently, at the emergency room where he is being admitted and tests are being run to determine why he passed out and why he hasn't been eating much the past couple of weeks," her mother, Sandra, stated.
"I'll talk to Derrick and see if I can get a few days off work. I should be able to make to your place by early evening. Is there anything I can do in the meantime?" I asked, feeling totally helpless and heartbroken all in one.
"No honey, just get here when you can."
Derrick offered to give me as much time off as I needed, offering to loan me some of his vacation time, if necessary to allow me to care for my family. He was a strong manager, but somehow had a soft side when it came to her.
Over the course of the next two days, the doctors ran numerous tests on Chloe's father until they finally had an answer.
She felt her heart being ripped from her chest, as Dr. Smithson explained, "I'm very sorry to inform you that Mr. Logan has an advanced stage brain tumor that is inoperable. We estimate his life expectancy to be a few weeks, at best. How he has managed to live this far without and symptoms is beyond comprehension. All we can do now is to keep him comfortable."
Chloe entered her father's hospital room, wondering what to say, when her father spoke instead, "You still going on your date for Valentine's?"
"Why would I do that while you are in here dad?"
"Because I don't want to ruin your day and would prefer you go have a little fun. You know your mother and I only want your happiness and who knows, maybe this guy could be your Prince Charming." The determined smile on his face showed that he would not be reckoned with, despite the situation.
I argued my case anyway, but mom suggested I give in to appease my father and give him some hope. If it were only that simple. I knew I was in no condition to enjoy going out on a date, especially not a first date with someone I hadn't met in person before. However, despite my better judgement, I called Vincent, explained the chaos going on in my life and to my surprise he wanted to continue with our date, even requesting to pick me up at my apartment.
I answered the door to a tall, very tan, dark haired, blue eyed goddess. Vincent was definitely everything his picture had promised. My heart had skipped a beat when he said, "Hello Chloe."
My common sense told me I should make apologies and call the date off, but I made a promise to my father and I couldn't pass up this fine specimen of manhood. Apparently, my dog had the same hesitation, because the sight of Vincent caused him to bark and growl continually, until I asked Vincent to wait down the hallway for me to grab my things and lock up.
Vincent was the courtly gentleman, holding my hand as he led me towards his SUV. Once there, he opened the door and reached in to pull out a long-stemmed red rose that smelled amazing.
We ended up eating at a local Italian restaurant, close to my apartment. Our conversation started out fine; however, my mind kept drifting to thoughts of my parents, in particular, my father. I could not shake the feeling that I needed to be with him, because his time was drawing short.
Despite my best efforts, I could tell Vincent was growing frustrated. He kept demanding I pay him my full attention, otherwise he would leave. I tried to explain my worries and how I was feeling. His only response, "You are born, you grow up, you die and then life moves on. Deal with it!"
I respectfully requested that we call the date off and maybe try another time. I guess I should have mashed the trigger to a ticking time bomb instead. He excused himself from the table to go "calm his nerves," only he didn't return. Instead I ended up paying for the entire meal, having to call a cab home, only to have an email waiting for me calling me, "A cold hearted witch, who was a waste of his time."
The next day I grabbed some things and headed back to my parent's house. While in route, I called Derrick on his cell, to update him on my father's health and the need to take a couple of weeks off.
Derrick sensed I was hurting and asked, as a friend, to tell him what was bothering me. I took the opportunity to vent, so we ended up talking the full two hours of my drive. He managed to soothe my nerves, calling my date a callous individual who may enjoy taking advantage of others. He felt Vincent would have left me with the bill either way and it was probably best that our date had gone so horribly wrong.
My nerves had calmed by the time I reached my father's hospital room. He instantly asked about the date, so I simply explained we were just not a match.
Over the course of the next week, my father's health took a turn for the worse. We could tell his life was slowly slipping away from us.
Derrick, at first, called every couple of days to see how I was handling things. When he heard that my father might only have days remaining, his calls came daily, with words of wisdom, offers to sit with us or help us with anything we might need.
To my surprise, after my father had passed and my heart felt crushed, Derrick continued to call, even dropping by to offer his condolences during the viewing. His friendship did not stop after I returned to work. Over time it developed into something deeper; love.
I guess everyone can tell that the worst Valentine's Day/date of my life, also turned into one of the best. The following year, I did not have a date with a potential boyfriend for Valentine's. Instead, I had a date with my first Valentine's Day with my wonderful husband, Derrick! ;-)
Here's hoping your Valentine's is something special. If you end up having a terrible date, don't despair. Sometimes out of horrid situations, comes the hope of eternal love.
I know...I couldn't go through with making it the worst date ever. I am a sucker for a happy ending. Now to those who know me...can you pick out what parts are fiction and what parts are reality?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)