The Quirky Gem Awards

Happy Friday Folks,

Yesterday's post had a couple of gems in it. Specifically "The Great Llama Escape" and 5 cups of coffee. I don't know how I'm ever going to top myself. I mean I came up with the whole manne-vamp idea awhile back.

I don't know where these things come from. Like I've said, I have a goofy sense of humor and sometimes things just pop into my head and I think, "Wow, that's actually hilarious." Other times I wonder if I try too hard.

This time, the Gem Award (something I've made up for those who come up with something so cool, so funny, quirky and fun that I just have to give it recognition...hence, the Quirky Gem Award) goes to my friend, Ryan. He suggested "a story about Pious Monk Ninja Kitties" So I absolutely have to give him credit for that. He gets a Quirky Gem Award.

So...now, I'm opening this up to everyone. In the comment section of this post come up with the quirkiest, goofiest, funniest idea you can either for a story or a saying (pertaining to writing or a story idea) and I'll post it on my blog (in the margin on your right-hand side as you look at this blog). I'm going to call it The Quirky Gem Awards and I'll credit you. I'm closing entries by 6 PM Central Standard Time (on today, Friday, May 21, 2010), so be sure to get them in. (If you're a little late getting in your entry, don't worry...I'll look at the time stamp and give a grace period).

This is your chance to be your quirkiest, goofiest, funniest best. Take advantage of it! It'll one of those rare moments people will actually applaud you for being quirky!

And if it's really popular I'll pick someone for a Quirky Gem Award every week. But it depends on how many people comment how often I give this award :-)

Have A Funny Friday!

Affirming One Another

Howdy Folks,

Yep, I'm going Southern again...you'll have to pardon me, every now and again it comes out. You can take the girl outta Texas, but you can't take the Texas out of the girl (to go cliche on everyone).

Welcome to Thursday's post...the wonderful anticipation of Friday and the chance to remind oneself every day is a gift.

Today is say something positive about another blogger day. Pick one person, any person you know who blogs and say something cool about them.

We're gonna focus on building each other up, because that's part of being fellow writers...helping each other. And sometimes a person just needs a pick-me-up.

Now, I'm not saying this to try and get someone to write anything about me, I just feel in the world where there's a lot going on (some good and some not good) we all need that spark of "life is good" every now and again.

Picking one person is very hard for me. There's several bloggers out there that I enjoy and so it was no easy task to come down to just one, but since it's just one person, this is who I'm gonna go with:

Regina of Regina Rhythm.

Here's why: She's very good at giving out extremely good tips for fellow writers and artists. She's professional and extremely smart. She can give constructive criticism that's helpful and she's nice to boot.

Now you can take a turn...pick a blogger whether a published author, or not...there's a catch though:

1. It can't be yourself. Yes, loving yourself is definitely important, but we're cultivating positive words of reinforcement for others for today.

2. Can't be the same person you saw on this blog (or someone else's blog).

3. Pick only one person (remember Highlander?).

Oh and nobody has to do this on their blog. I just like posting upbeat and positive things.

Like I said, choosing just one person was really hard! There's some really great blogs out there! Keep up the good work everybody :-)

Have A Terrific Thursday!

I Couldn't Do It Without You

There's so much that goes into writing and publishing. When writing, there's a combination of all the knowledge, experience, imagings, etcetera into just putting the words upon the page--formulating the story and characters. I can't even begin to go into what a big subject publishing is--I sometimes wonder if I've even begun to scratch the surface. It's quite vast.

However, most writers have some kind of support system. And that goes for me, as well. You know who you are! Family, friends, fellow writers I've talked to (whether published or not)--even teachers I've had. You're the ones on the sidelines saying "Go Bethany! You can do it!" (Which puts me in mind of the Home Depot commerical, but anyway...) This includes my husband (my son does in his own way, as well). The list is long and I am so blest to have all of you "in my corner".

You're the ones who remind me of my dream of doing this. Regardless of what happens, you're the ones who buoy me when I'm sinking into the "What am I thinking?" blues. You read bits and pieces of dialogue, scenes, listen when I read aloud what I wrote and give me your honest feedback. (And the more honest you are, the more helpful you are).

So, this posting is for you. To applaud YOU and thank you for everything. It means the world to me.

Give yourself a pat on the back!