Even my daddy, always quick with a negative comment delivered with his trademark pessimistic attitude, was thankful for certain things.
He thanked "JC" often for not allowing it to rain while he was fishing ... on the rainy side of Washington state ... as the clouds gushed forth.
While in the throes of end-stage cancer, he was thankful for someone to drive him to his favorite watering hole, to have "one last" Canadian Club and water--no ice.
He was thankful for all of the mistakes he'd made in his life and made every attempt to repeat some as often as possible.
I'm thankful for the opportunity to have had our home full of family and friends for the last four days. We celebrated: Thanksgiving on our schedule--on Saturday--and son's birthday on Sunday.
I'm thankful for a wonderful husband, children, grandchildren, and our ten-year-old one-eyed cat who seems to be slipping into senility. If only there could be some sensibility in senility.
I'm thankful to have been given the ability to form letters of the alphabet into words worth reading. Writing has opened a new world for me to explore with new friends and acquaintences.
I've learned to take the opportunity--OFTEN--to list what I'm thankful for. Reading these lists sometimes makes the more harsh times easier to withstand. A positive attitude may be just what we need to make those times happen less often. I happen to believe that we draw to us what we believe we deserve.Attitude is a state of mind.
Only I can change my attitude. Being thankful keeps me grounded.
Linda
November 26, 2007
November 15, 2007
Letter to the Editor that Couldn't Get Published
This was sent to me by my cousin, Agnes Nein. We share the same German, English, Welsh, Irish heritage. All of our in-common descendants came through Ellis Island. I thought it worthy of publication here.
To what Rosemary LaBonte has written, I could only add "Amen".
Linda
Newspapers simply won't publish letters to the editor which they either deem politically incorrect (read below) or which does not agree with the philosophy they're pushing on the public. This woman wrote a great letter to the editor that should have been published; but, with your help it will get published via cyberspace!
New Immigrants
From: "David LaBonte"
My wife, Rosemary, wrote a wonderful letter to the editor of the OC Register which, of course, was not printed. So, I decided to "print" it myself by sending it out on the Internet. Pass it along if you feel so inclined.
Dave LaBonte (signed)
Written in response to a series of letters to the editor in the Orange County Register:
Dear Editor:
So many letter writers have based their arguments on how this land is made up of immigrants. Ernie Lujan for one, suggests we should tear down the Statue of Liberty because the people now in question aren't being treated the same as those who passed through Ellis Island and other ports of entry.
Maybe we should turn to our history books and point out to people like Mr. Lujan why today's American is not willing to accept this new kind of immigrant any longer Back in 1900 when there was a rush from all areas of Europe to come to the United States, people had to get off a ship and stand in a long line in New York and be documented. Some would even get down on their hands and knees and kiss the ground. They made a pledge to uphold the laws and support their new country in good and bad times. They made learning English a primary rule in their new American households and some even changed their names to blend in with their new home.
They had waved good bye to their birth place to give their children a new life and did everything in their power to help their children assimilate into one culture.
Nothing was handed to them. No free lunches, no welfare, no labor laws to protect them. All they had were the skills and craftsmanship they had brought with them to trade for a future of prosperity. Most of their children came of age when World War II broke out. My father fought along side men whose parents had come straight over from Germany, Italy,France and Japan . None of these 1st generation Americans ever gave any thought about what country their parents had come from. They were Americans fighting Hitler, Mussolini and the Emperor of Japan. They were defe nding the United States of America as one people. When we liberated France, no one in those villages were looking for the French-American or the German American or the Irish American. The people of France saw only Americans. And we carried one flag that represented one country. Not one of those immigrant sons would have thought about picking up another country's flag and waving it to represent who they were. It would have been a disgrace to their parents who had sacrificed so much to be here. These immigrants truly knew what it meant to be an American. They stirred the melting pot into one red, white and blue bowl.
And here we are in 2006 with a new kind of immigrant who wants the same rights and privileges. Only they want to achieve it by playing with a different set of rules, one that includes the entitlement card and a guarantee of being faithful to their mother country. I'm sorry, that's not what being an American is all about. I believe that the immigrants who landed on Ellis Island in the early 1900's deserve better than that for all the toil, hard work and sacrifice in raising future generations to create a land that has become a beacon for those legally searching for a better life . I think they would be appalled that they are being used as an example by those waving foreign country flags.
And for that suggestion about taking down the Statue of Liberty, it happens to mean a lot to the citizens who are voting on the immigration bill. I wouldn't start talking about dismantling the United States just yet.
(signed) Rosemary LaBonte
KEEP THIS LETTER MOVING. FOR THE WRONG THINGS TO PREVAIL THE RIGHTFUL MAJORITY NEEDS TO REMAIN COMPLACENT AND QUIET!! LET THIS NEVER HAPPEN!!
I hope this letter gets read by millions of people all across the nation!!
Lisa Rubin
To what Rosemary LaBonte has written, I could only add "Amen".
Linda
Newspapers simply won't publish letters to the editor which they either deem politically incorrect (read below) or which does not agree with the philosophy they're pushing on the public. This woman wrote a great letter to the editor that should have been published; but, with your help it will get published via cyberspace!
New Immigrants
From: "David LaBonte"
My wife, Rosemary, wrote a wonderful letter to the editor of the OC Register which, of course, was not printed. So, I decided to "print" it myself by sending it out on the Internet. Pass it along if you feel so inclined.
Dave LaBonte (signed)
Written in response to a series of letters to the editor in the Orange County Register:
Dear Editor:
So many letter writers have based their arguments on how this land is made up of immigrants. Ernie Lujan for one, suggests we should tear down the Statue of Liberty because the people now in question aren't being treated the same as those who passed through Ellis Island and other ports of entry.
Maybe we should turn to our history books and point out to people like Mr. Lujan why today's American is not willing to accept this new kind of immigrant any longer Back in 1900 when there was a rush from all areas of Europe to come to the United States, people had to get off a ship and stand in a long line in New York and be documented. Some would even get down on their hands and knees and kiss the ground. They made a pledge to uphold the laws and support their new country in good and bad times. They made learning English a primary rule in their new American households and some even changed their names to blend in with their new home.
They had waved good bye to their birth place to give their children a new life and did everything in their power to help their children assimilate into one culture.
Nothing was handed to them. No free lunches, no welfare, no labor laws to protect them. All they had were the skills and craftsmanship they had brought with them to trade for a future of prosperity. Most of their children came of age when World War II broke out. My father fought along side men whose parents had come straight over from Germany, Italy,France and Japan . None of these 1st generation Americans ever gave any thought about what country their parents had come from. They were Americans fighting Hitler, Mussolini and the Emperor of Japan. They were defe nding the United States of America as one people. When we liberated France, no one in those villages were looking for the French-American or the German American or the Irish American. The people of France saw only Americans. And we carried one flag that represented one country. Not one of those immigrant sons would have thought about picking up another country's flag and waving it to represent who they were. It would have been a disgrace to their parents who had sacrificed so much to be here. These immigrants truly knew what it meant to be an American. They stirred the melting pot into one red, white and blue bowl.
And here we are in 2006 with a new kind of immigrant who wants the same rights and privileges. Only they want to achieve it by playing with a different set of rules, one that includes the entitlement card and a guarantee of being faithful to their mother country. I'm sorry, that's not what being an American is all about. I believe that the immigrants who landed on Ellis Island in the early 1900's deserve better than that for all the toil, hard work and sacrifice in raising future generations to create a land that has become a beacon for those legally searching for a better life . I think they would be appalled that they are being used as an example by those waving foreign country flags.
And for that suggestion about taking down the Statue of Liberty, it happens to mean a lot to the citizens who are voting on the immigration bill. I wouldn't start talking about dismantling the United States just yet.
(signed) Rosemary LaBonte
KEEP THIS LETTER MOVING. FOR THE WRONG THINGS TO PREVAIL THE RIGHTFUL MAJORITY NEEDS TO REMAIN COMPLACENT AND QUIET!! LET THIS NEVER HAPPEN!!
I hope this letter gets read by millions of people all across the nation!!
Lisa Rubin
September 27, 2007
Emergency Room Procedures
A friend recently sent this to me. It sums up my feelings pretty well:
The other day, I needed to go to the emergency room.
Not wanting to sit there for 4 hours, I put on my old Army fatigues and stuck a patch that I had downloaded off the internet onto the front of my shirt. When I went into the E.R., I noticed that 3/4 of the people got up and left. I guess they decided that they weren't that sick after all.Here's the patch. Feel free to use it the next time you're in need of quicker emergency service. ** * It also works well if you ever have to use a Laundromat
*
The other day, I needed to go to the emergency room.
Not wanting to sit there for 4 hours, I put on my old Army fatigues and stuck a patch that I had downloaded off the internet onto the front of my shirt. When I went into the E.R., I noticed that 3/4 of the people got up and left. I guess they decided that they weren't that sick after all.Here's the patch. Feel free to use it the next time you're in need of quicker emergency service. ** * It also works well if you ever have to use a Laundromat
*
September 26, 2007
Buster (the Boxer) and the baby goat
Some of my friends at The Writer's Chatroom are waiting to hear the story of how I came to have a bucket of broken blackboard chunks to write all of their names on for the door prize drawing last Sunday. (They've requested the story for tonight's Open Wednesday chat.) Up for grabs was Dr. Gregory Spencer's Guardian of the Veil. I usually don't read fantasy, but this one is very good.
So ... since I've been driving most of the day, I've decided to borrow from a letter sent to my friend from fifth grade who now lives in Anchorage, AK. This is, of course, only part one. I'll still need to explain how the 3 year-old boy was involved.
An excerpt:
Hi Dave,
It's been awhile. I spent most of April in Louisville helping Raylene and Jeff get moved (with 5 kids--2 of them requiring birthday parties), and then taking care of Jeffrey after he had bone spurs removed from his neck/spine. He's had a rough time of it.
Had an X-ray done before the last trip to L'ville. My doc called just as Jeff and I were leaving the mini-animal farm with a baby pygmy goat, to tell me I now have arthritis in my neck and she was setting up an MRI. The goat and mini-horses were so much fun--until my phone rang.
So we got the goat home and put her in the laundry room, blocking the door with a child gate. We'd stopped to pick up some groceries on the way home. Just as I was balanced with a gallon of milk in each hand and had gotten the storm door opened on the front door, their boxer, named "Buster", lunged at the goat, who cleared the child gate and flew through the open storm door.
Here we were, me with arthritis in my back, hips, and now-neck, and Jeffrey recovering from neck surgery--trying to chase this baby goat through the ravine, across the creek, and over the neighbor's field. We must have been some sight because the neighbor who owns the property we were on came over with his two kids to help us corral the goat in their barn. The dad closed the door and we cornered "Lil Bit" so that Jeff could get hold of her.
It was after we got her back in the house that I remembered I had my cat's harness and leash (I know, this is not normal, but then neither am I--or my cat) in the trunk of my car. It fit the goat perfectly and she was not allowed out of her pen without it from then on. We figured if she got loose again, we'd at least have something to grab at! She is quicker than a bullet.
Daughter--who didn't want the goat--brought her in from the kennel during a thunderstorm a few days later thinking the little goat was lonely and frightened. They now have 2 baby pygmy goats--and I am so happy to be back home!
Don't yet know what's in store for me health-wise. Jeff and I have often laughed and said they should just put both of us on gurneys in the same O.R., open us both up and remove everything that is non-essential to life.
So, I'm back home and have been a lawn-mowing fool. Love the new John Deere! When I'm cutting that grass on my big green machine, I'm on top of the world. Funny, hubby got a big red diesel F-250--and I got a John Deere LA-120 ... Wonder what the shrink assigned to help me with pain issues will think of that ...
Linda
So ... since I've been driving most of the day, I've decided to borrow from a letter sent to my friend from fifth grade who now lives in Anchorage, AK. This is, of course, only part one. I'll still need to explain how the 3 year-old boy was involved.
An excerpt:
Hi Dave,
It's been awhile. I spent most of April in Louisville helping Raylene and Jeff get moved (with 5 kids--2 of them requiring birthday parties), and then taking care of Jeffrey after he had bone spurs removed from his neck/spine. He's had a rough time of it.
Had an X-ray done before the last trip to L'ville. My doc called just as Jeff and I were leaving the mini-animal farm with a baby pygmy goat, to tell me I now have arthritis in my neck and she was setting up an MRI. The goat and mini-horses were so much fun--until my phone rang.
So we got the goat home and put her in the laundry room, blocking the door with a child gate. We'd stopped to pick up some groceries on the way home. Just as I was balanced with a gallon of milk in each hand and had gotten the storm door opened on the front door, their boxer, named "Buster", lunged at the goat, who cleared the child gate and flew through the open storm door.
Here we were, me with arthritis in my back, hips, and now-neck, and Jeffrey recovering from neck surgery--trying to chase this baby goat through the ravine, across the creek, and over the neighbor's field. We must have been some sight because the neighbor who owns the property we were on came over with his two kids to help us corral the goat in their barn. The dad closed the door and we cornered "Lil Bit" so that Jeff could get hold of her.
It was after we got her back in the house that I remembered I had my cat's harness and leash (I know, this is not normal, but then neither am I--or my cat) in the trunk of my car. It fit the goat perfectly and she was not allowed out of her pen without it from then on. We figured if she got loose again, we'd at least have something to grab at! She is quicker than a bullet.
Daughter--who didn't want the goat--brought her in from the kennel during a thunderstorm a few days later thinking the little goat was lonely and frightened. They now have 2 baby pygmy goats--and I am so happy to be back home!
Don't yet know what's in store for me health-wise. Jeff and I have often laughed and said they should just put both of us on gurneys in the same O.R., open us both up and remove everything that is non-essential to life.
So, I'm back home and have been a lawn-mowing fool. Love the new John Deere! When I'm cutting that grass on my big green machine, I'm on top of the world. Funny, hubby got a big red diesel F-250--and I got a John Deere LA-120 ... Wonder what the shrink assigned to help me with pain issues will think of that ...
Linda
September 21, 2007
Publicity Firms and Guest Authors at TWC
I’ve had the privilege the past few months to interact with four representatives of three public relations firms while booking guests for The Writer’s Chatroom. They’ve graciously given of their time on behalf of their clients to get all the details right, set up appointments, and to donate books for the half-time door prize drawings.
Rebeca Seitz is the president of Glass Road Public Relations, LLC in Nashville, TN. She is the publicist for debut author and former Mrs. Nebraska Tosca Lee. Tosca will be our first Celebrity Sunday guest in 2008. Her book has quickly moved to the top of my TBR pile. Their motto at Glass Road is “A Novel Approach to Reflecting Your Light”. http://www.glassroadpr.com/
Also with Glass Road is Danielle Douglas, whom I’ve been working with to book Dr. Gregory Spencer for September 23rd. Greg writes “of Welken”. I’m currently reading Guardian of the Veil, the second book in the series. Very interesting fantasy. The word-play is entertaining in and of itself.
PJ Nunn of BreakThrough Promotions represents our November 18th guest, Dr. Bruce Cook. I read Philippine Fever several months ago to review for FMAM, and wanted to book this author before I’d finished reading it. PJ has been wonderful to work with. http://www.breakthroughpromotions.com/, http://www.criminalpursuits.com/, http://crimespace.ning.com/profile/Rebelssong (and you gotta love this one!) There's a Dead Guy blog http://heydeadguy.typepad.com/heydeadguy/
We’re planning a “first” for the chatroom in late March 2008. Debut author Jordan Dane will have three books hitting the stores in three consequtive months. More details to follow. I’m currently working out those details with Sherry Rowland of Two Sisters Promotions, LLP. I don’t have a website addy for them, but the phone number is (918) 625-6526.
I have no idea how much these firms charge their author clients, what their contracts include, or how each one operates. I do know that each of them has been exceptionally professional in representing their clients to me.
We have many other guests coming up, who have been booked without the benefit of a publicity firm. Anyone who knows us here at TWC knows we’re not the least bit snobbish about that kind of thing. We’re much more interested in bringing in guests who are entertaining, write well, and are willing to share information with our members.
I just like to give credit where credit is due. These ladies have been terrific to work with.
And, btw, I finally got my own website updated today. I’m ashamed to say how long it’s been neglected. Please don’t do as I have done. It isn't good publicity. http://www.lindajhutchinson.com/
Rebeca Seitz is the president of Glass Road Public Relations, LLC in Nashville, TN. She is the publicist for debut author and former Mrs. Nebraska Tosca Lee. Tosca will be our first Celebrity Sunday guest in 2008. Her book has quickly moved to the top of my TBR pile. Their motto at Glass Road is “A Novel Approach to Reflecting Your Light”. http://www.glassroadpr.com/
Also with Glass Road is Danielle Douglas, whom I’ve been working with to book Dr. Gregory Spencer for September 23rd. Greg writes “of Welken”. I’m currently reading Guardian of the Veil, the second book in the series. Very interesting fantasy. The word-play is entertaining in and of itself.
PJ Nunn of BreakThrough Promotions represents our November 18th guest, Dr. Bruce Cook. I read Philippine Fever several months ago to review for FMAM, and wanted to book this author before I’d finished reading it. PJ has been wonderful to work with. http://www.breakthroughpromotions.com/, http://www.criminalpursuits.com/, http://crimespace.ning.com/profile/Rebelssong (and you gotta love this one!) There's a Dead Guy blog http://heydeadguy.typepad.com/heydeadguy/
We’re planning a “first” for the chatroom in late March 2008. Debut author Jordan Dane will have three books hitting the stores in three consequtive months. More details to follow. I’m currently working out those details with Sherry Rowland of Two Sisters Promotions, LLP. I don’t have a website addy for them, but the phone number is (918) 625-6526.
I have no idea how much these firms charge their author clients, what their contracts include, or how each one operates. I do know that each of them has been exceptionally professional in representing their clients to me.
We have many other guests coming up, who have been booked without the benefit of a publicity firm. Anyone who knows us here at TWC knows we’re not the least bit snobbish about that kind of thing. We’re much more interested in bringing in guests who are entertaining, write well, and are willing to share information with our members.
I just like to give credit where credit is due. These ladies have been terrific to work with.
And, btw, I finally got my own website updated today. I’m ashamed to say how long it’s been neglected. Please don’t do as I have done. It isn't good publicity. http://www.lindajhutchinson.com/
August 20, 2007
Excuses, Promises, and Random Thoughts
Blogs 08/18/07 Word count: 528
I’m ashamed to say this: I haven’t written much since springtime hit.
This was our first planting season in the new house. (It’s new to us, but not a “new” dwelling.) Husband Michael and I have taken the exterior on a wild ride from ugly-dirty-yellow-with-brown-everything-else to vibrant barn red with avocado and cream shutters and doors.
We’ve painted, papered, built shelves, and decorated until we only have three rooms to go on the interior transformation. We’ve moved cabinets around in the kitchen, turned a tiny, dismal, master bathroom into a little piece of paradise, and even run the water line for the refrigerator twice because we changed our minds on its location.
As we’ve gotten to know our neighbors on either side we’ve learned more and more of the history of our home. We now understand why the flowerbeds have recurrent ten-foot-long weed tubers that never seem to get completely dug out. We know why the lawn is more like a thistle feeding frenzy than a grassy bare foot-friendly stroll.
I’ve been taking full advantage of all those allergy shots. I’m actually spending time outdoors and enjoying it! And, I’m learning the names of all the perennial flowers as we’ve planted them in the new beds. Today, we actually “planted” a big white metal headboard in our new shade garden under the twisted, artistically and symmetrically-challenged tree next to the little creek that meanders through our property. (We’re going to tell the grandkids that that’s where our flowers take naps.)
Yep, I’ve managed to make all of my deadlines as a freelance writer because no matter how much my muse has dawdled and dinked around, the thought of disappointing my editors is not something I’m willing to do.
I’ve written epistles to my children and a few friends. I’ve congratulated my friend Ronii on the birth of her eighth child. Yes, eighth! I’ve forwarded funny emails with my comments added.
I’ve written many emails to potential guests for The Writer’s Chatroom, and I’m proud to say we’re booked through the end of 2007! And, former beauty queen and debut author Tosca Lee has agreed to be our first guest of 2008.
We’ll also be heavily involved in the “launch” of debut author Jordan Dane. She’s got three books coming out back-to-back next spring. For a writer, that’s the equivalent of launching a 40-foot sailboat you’ve just spent every available moment building in the back yard for five years.
I’ve honored my commitments. However, my fiction writing seems to have gotten buried in the “back 40” right along with my resolve to write every day.
I’m also ashamed to say that my website hasn’t been updated in so many months I’m embarrassed to give out the address. My blogs have become strangers.
So … Renee Barnes (Trailer Park Gazette and The Writer’s Chatroom fame) and I have committed to writing every day—to get ourselves back on track. And just to keep us honest, we’ve also committed to sending each other what we’ve written every day!
So, here it is Renee! And this was after spending 7 hours outside with dear husband—planting and digging. I promise to do better tomorrow!
Oh … and today would have been my Daddy’s 76th birthday. Happy birthday Dad! I sure do miss you.
I’m ashamed to say this: I haven’t written much since springtime hit.
This was our first planting season in the new house. (It’s new to us, but not a “new” dwelling.) Husband Michael and I have taken the exterior on a wild ride from ugly-dirty-yellow-with-brown-everything-else to vibrant barn red with avocado and cream shutters and doors.
We’ve painted, papered, built shelves, and decorated until we only have three rooms to go on the interior transformation. We’ve moved cabinets around in the kitchen, turned a tiny, dismal, master bathroom into a little piece of paradise, and even run the water line for the refrigerator twice because we changed our minds on its location.
As we’ve gotten to know our neighbors on either side we’ve learned more and more of the history of our home. We now understand why the flowerbeds have recurrent ten-foot-long weed tubers that never seem to get completely dug out. We know why the lawn is more like a thistle feeding frenzy than a grassy bare foot-friendly stroll.
I’ve been taking full advantage of all those allergy shots. I’m actually spending time outdoors and enjoying it! And, I’m learning the names of all the perennial flowers as we’ve planted them in the new beds. Today, we actually “planted” a big white metal headboard in our new shade garden under the twisted, artistically and symmetrically-challenged tree next to the little creek that meanders through our property. (We’re going to tell the grandkids that that’s where our flowers take naps.)
Yep, I’ve managed to make all of my deadlines as a freelance writer because no matter how much my muse has dawdled and dinked around, the thought of disappointing my editors is not something I’m willing to do.
I’ve written epistles to my children and a few friends. I’ve congratulated my friend Ronii on the birth of her eighth child. Yes, eighth! I’ve forwarded funny emails with my comments added.
I’ve written many emails to potential guests for The Writer’s Chatroom, and I’m proud to say we’re booked through the end of 2007! And, former beauty queen and debut author Tosca Lee has agreed to be our first guest of 2008.
We’ll also be heavily involved in the “launch” of debut author Jordan Dane. She’s got three books coming out back-to-back next spring. For a writer, that’s the equivalent of launching a 40-foot sailboat you’ve just spent every available moment building in the back yard for five years.
I’ve honored my commitments. However, my fiction writing seems to have gotten buried in the “back 40” right along with my resolve to write every day.
I’m also ashamed to say that my website hasn’t been updated in so many months I’m embarrassed to give out the address. My blogs have become strangers.
So … Renee Barnes (Trailer Park Gazette and The Writer’s Chatroom fame) and I have committed to writing every day—to get ourselves back on track. And just to keep us honest, we’ve also committed to sending each other what we’ve written every day!
So, here it is Renee! And this was after spending 7 hours outside with dear husband—planting and digging. I promise to do better tomorrow!
Oh … and today would have been my Daddy’s 76th birthday. Happy birthday Dad! I sure do miss you.
May 25, 2007
In God We Still Trust by Diamond Rio
A friend sent this to me recently. I'm not a bible-thumper, but if you ask I'll tell you that God lives in my home and in my heart. I prefer to let my actions speak louder than my words most of the time--a tough comment to dig out of a writer.
My friend's email: "In March, 2005, this song was performed at a Diamond Rio concert. They received an immediate standing ovation, and continue to do so every time they perform it!
Sadly, major radio stations wouldn't play it because it was considered politically incorrect. Consequently, the song was never released to the public.
If this song speaks to your heart, share it with friends and loved ones. Then let us cease being the silent majority and join together as Americans!"
Turn up your speakers!
Click here -----------> http://gunbarrelcityradio.com/InGodWeStillTrust.wmv
My friend's email: "In March, 2005, this song was performed at a Diamond Rio concert. They received an immediate standing ovation, and continue to do so every time they perform it!
Sadly, major radio stations wouldn't play it because it was considered politically incorrect. Consequently, the song was never released to the public.
If this song speaks to your heart, share it with friends and loved ones. Then let us cease being the silent majority and join together as Americans!"
Turn up your speakers!
Click here -----------> http://gunbarrelcityradio.com/InGodWeStillTrust.wmv
April 11, 2007
The Sun Shines at TWC
I sure wish Spring would get here! We had another dose of snow this week—as always seems to happen in April here in Ohio.
The potted plants, peat pots, and seeds are beginning to take up much space in the house and garage while we await warmer planting weather. I’ve even found myself researching bamboo, which I’m sure is some unconscious blathering deep within my soul which has reached near-screaming pitch from the need for sunshine and warmth.
I WANT to take the storm windows off and give the windows a good scrub both inside and out. The front door is in need of fresh paint—I’m thinking geranium red—but haven’t quite sold hubby on that one. The previous owners painted everything that wasn’t beige—brown. Brown just isn’t my color! Give me ruby, emerald, sapphire, garnet, even peridot or aquamarine, but don’t expect me to live with brown and like it. The only two things I like to be devoid of color are water and diamonds. Biggie-size both, please!
Since the weather hasn’t cooperated, I’ve spent my time searching out the best guests I could find for The Writer’s Chatroom’s Celebrity Sunday chats. The lineup Audrey, Renee, and I have come up with is impressive! This Sunday will feature Jonathan Maberry, followed by Vicki M Taylor, Tim Bete, Mari Atherton, Karen Syed, Vicki Delaney, Sandra Tooley (Lee Driver), Cyndy Salzmann, Hailey Lind, Robert Walker, and Bob Avey. Hope Clark of FundsForWriters and The Shy Writer fame is a friend of the chatroom and bi-monthly guest.
I’ve also found renewed inspiration for the newbie writer’s ebook in process. Now if I could come up with a suitable title. That pesky title issue is beginning to poke holes in my dream time. If you have any ideas, let me know.
Hope your writing time and “duties” have been as productive as mine. May we all not lose that momentum when the sunshine doth finally find us.
The potted plants, peat pots, and seeds are beginning to take up much space in the house and garage while we await warmer planting weather. I’ve even found myself researching bamboo, which I’m sure is some unconscious blathering deep within my soul which has reached near-screaming pitch from the need for sunshine and warmth.
I WANT to take the storm windows off and give the windows a good scrub both inside and out. The front door is in need of fresh paint—I’m thinking geranium red—but haven’t quite sold hubby on that one. The previous owners painted everything that wasn’t beige—brown. Brown just isn’t my color! Give me ruby, emerald, sapphire, garnet, even peridot or aquamarine, but don’t expect me to live with brown and like it. The only two things I like to be devoid of color are water and diamonds. Biggie-size both, please!
Since the weather hasn’t cooperated, I’ve spent my time searching out the best guests I could find for The Writer’s Chatroom’s Celebrity Sunday chats. The lineup Audrey, Renee, and I have come up with is impressive! This Sunday will feature Jonathan Maberry, followed by Vicki M Taylor, Tim Bete, Mari Atherton, Karen Syed, Vicki Delaney, Sandra Tooley (Lee Driver), Cyndy Salzmann, Hailey Lind, Robert Walker, and Bob Avey. Hope Clark of FundsForWriters and The Shy Writer fame is a friend of the chatroom and bi-monthly guest.
I’ve also found renewed inspiration for the newbie writer’s ebook in process. Now if I could come up with a suitable title. That pesky title issue is beginning to poke holes in my dream time. If you have any ideas, let me know.
Hope your writing time and “duties” have been as productive as mine. May we all not lose that momentum when the sunshine doth finally find us.
March 07, 2007
New Reviews Are Up at The Review Hutch!
Reviews have been posted at the Review Hutch
"The Grail Conspiracy" by Lynn Sholes & Joe Moore
"T: An Auto-Biography" by Feather Schwartz Foster
"A Red Dark Night" by A.P. Fuchs
"Phil and The French Country Inn" by Cree Forman
Happy reading!
Linda
www.lindajhutchinson.com
http://writerschatroom.com
"The Grail Conspiracy" by Lynn Sholes & Joe Moore
"T: An Auto-Biography" by Feather Schwartz Foster
"A Red Dark Night" by A.P. Fuchs
"Phil and The French Country Inn" by Cree Forman
Happy reading!
Linda
www.lindajhutchinson.com
http://writerschatroom.com
February 20, 2007
Dr. Seuss Writing Romance? Now?
Writer-buddy Lisa Logan sent this to me recently. Computer issues prevented me from posting it earlier. Linda
Author Mix-up Has Dr. Seuss Writing Romance
Redlands, CA February 4, 2007--Fans of Theodore Seuss Geisel, i.e. Dr. Seuss, may be in for a surprise when they learn that the renowned children's writer has changed genres... more than a decade after his death.
Author Lisa Logan had just celebrated the release of her debut novel, Visions, on January 30 when she received a complaint from a Borders in Illinois. They could not find the romantic mystery to order it into their store. In checking other bookseller listings, she discovered an error on Barnes & Noble's web site.
According to B&N, the romantic mystery was authored and illustrated by Seuss in November of 2005. The author/illustrator of forty-eight children's books, including The Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs & Ham, died of cancer in 1991. Logan's cover and title were featured in the listing, which had appeared correctly the day before.
Logan took the mix up in stride. She quipped, "I'm as big a fan of Dr. Seuss as any, but I can't sit by and let the guy take credit for my work. That is, unless they want to send me his royalty checks."
The Redlands, CA author sought help from the publisher of her novel, Draumr Publishing, who is currently working with the distributor to correct the listing. No comment from Barnes & Noble on the error.
For more information, contact Lisa Logan at writerlisalogan@verizon.net. or via her website at http://lisalogan.net .
Author Mix-up Has Dr. Seuss Writing Romance
Redlands, CA February 4, 2007--Fans of Theodore Seuss Geisel, i.e. Dr. Seuss, may be in for a surprise when they learn that the renowned children's writer has changed genres... more than a decade after his death.
Author Lisa Logan had just celebrated the release of her debut novel, Visions, on January 30 when she received a complaint from a Borders in Illinois. They could not find the romantic mystery to order it into their store. In checking other bookseller listings, she discovered an error on Barnes & Noble's web site.
According to B&N, the romantic mystery was authored and illustrated by Seuss in November of 2005. The author/illustrator of forty-eight children's books, including The Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs & Ham, died of cancer in 1991. Logan's cover and title were featured in the listing, which had appeared correctly the day before.
Logan took the mix up in stride. She quipped, "I'm as big a fan of Dr. Seuss as any, but I can't sit by and let the guy take credit for my work. That is, unless they want to send me his royalty checks."
The Redlands, CA author sought help from the publisher of her novel, Draumr Publishing, who is currently working with the distributor to correct the listing. No comment from Barnes & Noble on the error.
For more information, contact Lisa Logan at writerlisalogan@verizon.net. or via her website at http://lisalogan.net .
February 02, 2007
My editor is happy--and that makes me happy!
I’ve been writing monthly articles for a national construction publication for almost a year and a half. I write about concrete and asphalt, heavy equipment, roads, turnpikes, bridges, and mud. Occasionally I’ll showcase a major player in the constuction industry.
I also preach to new writers about how important it is to proofread their work from the pulpit of The Writer’s Chatroom. (http://writerschatroom.com)
This came in an email about fifteen minutes after turning in this month’s story:
Linda,
I just finished reading your Brent Spence story. It was an easy with no errors. Really nice work...just wanted to say that. I look forward to the photos.
Thanks.
The story wasn’t difficult to write. I like writing about bridges, especially old bridges. They just seem to have character, something most freeways lack.
Here’s proof that it’s important to proofread! And a happy editor usually equates to more assignments-and more income.
Linda
www.lindajhutchinson.com
I also preach to new writers about how important it is to proofread their work from the pulpit of The Writer’s Chatroom. (http://writerschatroom.com)
This came in an email about fifteen minutes after turning in this month’s story:
Linda,
I just finished reading your Brent Spence story. It was an easy with no errors. Really nice work...just wanted to say that. I look forward to the photos.
Thanks.
The story wasn’t difficult to write. I like writing about bridges, especially old bridges. They just seem to have character, something most freeways lack.
Here’s proof that it’s important to proofread! And a happy editor usually equates to more assignments-and more income.
Linda
www.lindajhutchinson.com
January 26, 2007
Fibromyalgia and Me
Today I’m writing about my health, something I don’t often do. You see, I have a host of auto-immune issues I’d love to forget about. Unfortunately the pain that keeps me company around the clock won’t allow that.
I have advanced osteoarthritis in my spine (degenerative disc disease), complete with spondylolisthesis and stenosis. What all that means is that my spine is deteriorating.
Visits to the spine institute here in central Ohio proved that surgery would help neither my spine nor my knees.
I endured not one set, but two, of epidural steroid injections—a most unpleasant experience—hoping to stop the pain radiating from my lower back to my knees. Each time, I had two and one half days of relief. Certainly not enough to make another round worth the effort. My specialist agreed.
Back to my primary care physician. She, like the two doctors I’d seen when we lived on the west side of the state, diagnosed me with Fibromyalgia. Damn.
There is nothing quite like having all over flu-like muscle pains and cramps for three years straight. I had to accept that I must have this disease, disorder, or syndrome—what it’s called depends on which report you read. Many doctors believe Fibro is all in your head. May they be blessed to receive it. I’m sure the other three million Americans who have this would agree.
I’ve set out on a self-directed study to find something that will help me—other than the brain-numbing, bone-killing, cancer-causing drugs touted as the end-all by the big drug companies.
Depression is a big part of Fibro. At the urging of my insurance company’s “chronic care” nurse I joined an online self-help group. After two weeks of the pity party, I unsubscribed.
I don’t want pity. Even on the bad days. I want to know how to deal with this frustrating disease to improve the quality of my life. It IS a quality of life issue because the disease, while not fatal, is life-long.
I’m not a doctor, I’m a patient. What works for me may or may not work for you. Fibro has no set-in-concrete symptoms or treatment. Fibro “flares” are caused by any number of things, but stress is highly regarded as a main trigger.
A multi-vitamin, good for most people, isn’t good for me. They are loaded with vitamin C and bee pollen. Vitamin C gives me hives and bee pollen gives me the headache from hell.
After much research, this is what I’m currently doing and taking to deal with MY fibromyalgia:
Yeast Fighters, Inflamation/Immune system
Zinc, Immune system
Vitamin E, Immune system
Echinacea, Immune system
Beta Carotene, Immune system/anti-oxidant
Calcium w/vitamin D, Bone health
Magnesium, Joint health
Glucosamine sulfate, Joint health
Mucinex (guaifenesin), Pain relief
Cayenne Fruit, Pain relief
Alpha Lipoic Acid, Anti-oxidant/free radicals
Fish Oil, Heart health
Folic Acid, Heart and nervous system
Vitamin B-12, Cardiovascular and nerve health
DGL (licorice extract), Enzymatic therapy
Cinnamon, Regulate blood sugars
Odorless garlic, Cholesterol
I take naps when I need to. I work from home so that I can take care of my health. My husband gives wonderful massages—and NO, I won’t rent him out.
Please check with your doctor before adding any of the above to your health regimen! This combination works for me, but it may not work for you.
Other than the vitamins, I’ve added one supplement at a time. Over time, some that had been added have been dropped because they simply didn’t help.
I also take Neuronton (Rx) for the nerve damage and stenosis in my spine, and have muscle relaxers and pain remedies to be used as needed. I avoid NSAIDs like the plague—I do not suffer from an Aleve deficiency.
So there it is. I haven’t had a Fibromyalgia flare since two days before Christmas. My arthritis also seems to be under control. I’m sleeping better. I’m writing every day and meeting my goals.
I urge you, if you have Fibromyalgia, to do your homework. The disease is NOT in your head. You do NOT have to suffer.
Recommended:
http://www.fmaware.org/index.html The National Fibromyalgia Association
“Get a Grip on Arthritis, and Other Inflammatory Disorders” by Lorna R. Vanderhaeghe
That’s it. I’m done writing about my health. I have four articles to get out this week. Deadlines don’t wait.
I have advanced osteoarthritis in my spine (degenerative disc disease), complete with spondylolisthesis and stenosis. What all that means is that my spine is deteriorating.
Visits to the spine institute here in central Ohio proved that surgery would help neither my spine nor my knees.
I endured not one set, but two, of epidural steroid injections—a most unpleasant experience—hoping to stop the pain radiating from my lower back to my knees. Each time, I had two and one half days of relief. Certainly not enough to make another round worth the effort. My specialist agreed.
Back to my primary care physician. She, like the two doctors I’d seen when we lived on the west side of the state, diagnosed me with Fibromyalgia. Damn.
There is nothing quite like having all over flu-like muscle pains and cramps for three years straight. I had to accept that I must have this disease, disorder, or syndrome—what it’s called depends on which report you read. Many doctors believe Fibro is all in your head. May they be blessed to receive it. I’m sure the other three million Americans who have this would agree.
I’ve set out on a self-directed study to find something that will help me—other than the brain-numbing, bone-killing, cancer-causing drugs touted as the end-all by the big drug companies.
Depression is a big part of Fibro. At the urging of my insurance company’s “chronic care” nurse I joined an online self-help group. After two weeks of the pity party, I unsubscribed.
I don’t want pity. Even on the bad days. I want to know how to deal with this frustrating disease to improve the quality of my life. It IS a quality of life issue because the disease, while not fatal, is life-long.
I’m not a doctor, I’m a patient. What works for me may or may not work for you. Fibro has no set-in-concrete symptoms or treatment. Fibro “flares” are caused by any number of things, but stress is highly regarded as a main trigger.
A multi-vitamin, good for most people, isn’t good for me. They are loaded with vitamin C and bee pollen. Vitamin C gives me hives and bee pollen gives me the headache from hell.
After much research, this is what I’m currently doing and taking to deal with MY fibromyalgia:
Yeast Fighters, Inflamation/Immune system
Zinc, Immune system
Vitamin E, Immune system
Echinacea, Immune system
Beta Carotene, Immune system/anti-oxidant
Calcium w/vitamin D, Bone health
Magnesium, Joint health
Glucosamine sulfate, Joint health
Mucinex (guaifenesin), Pain relief
Cayenne Fruit, Pain relief
Alpha Lipoic Acid, Anti-oxidant/free radicals
Fish Oil, Heart health
Folic Acid, Heart and nervous system
Vitamin B-12, Cardiovascular and nerve health
DGL (licorice extract), Enzymatic therapy
Cinnamon, Regulate blood sugars
Odorless garlic, Cholesterol
I take naps when I need to. I work from home so that I can take care of my health. My husband gives wonderful massages—and NO, I won’t rent him out.
Please check with your doctor before adding any of the above to your health regimen! This combination works for me, but it may not work for you.
Other than the vitamins, I’ve added one supplement at a time. Over time, some that had been added have been dropped because they simply didn’t help.
I also take Neuronton (Rx) for the nerve damage and stenosis in my spine, and have muscle relaxers and pain remedies to be used as needed. I avoid NSAIDs like the plague—I do not suffer from an Aleve deficiency.
So there it is. I haven’t had a Fibromyalgia flare since two days before Christmas. My arthritis also seems to be under control. I’m sleeping better. I’m writing every day and meeting my goals.
I urge you, if you have Fibromyalgia, to do your homework. The disease is NOT in your head. You do NOT have to suffer.
Recommended:
http://www.fmaware.org/index.html The National Fibromyalgia Association
“Get a Grip on Arthritis, and Other Inflammatory Disorders” by Lorna R. Vanderhaeghe
That’s it. I’m done writing about my health. I have four articles to get out this week. Deadlines don’t wait.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)