Jax's Artistic Journey...

This is one of my favorite holidays but this year I've promised myself that I would write and get my proposal done...the one that never ends...before I can enjoy any more days off. It's a tough project and I am committed to getting it finished no-matter-what!

Which leads me to committing myself to laying off the internet except for research reasons this weekend ... maybe parts of next week. However, I will only be online to post on blog days at various places but I am going to buckle down and avoid everything and everyone otherwise. Drastic times calls for drastic measures so I'm grounding myself...sort of.

Wish I was going to some kind of fancy party--ooh, I love dressing up--but I'll be okay about missing all the fun this year because it will be a party for me when I can finally shut up about my proposal and totally brag that "I SENT IT OUT".

Watch me.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN. Please be safe and have fun. Just stay away from the vampires and werewolves this year!

It's been a while since I've shared awesome news but today I wanted to kiss the folks at Amber Quill Press.

I SOLD! Yes, I sure did. I've got a short erotic contemporary that will be available the weekend of January 17th 2010 (unless it's moved up)! No cover yet but as soon as I get one, it's going up! :) This is a quick, exotic, and sexy read that I hope will keep you turning the pages. I totally loved writing it because it contains memories of Paris mixed with my love of art. I hope you'll put this short story on your TBR list. I'm glad I'll be starting the new year with one of my beloved publishers!

Every sale is a special one and I'm just enjoying the high...

BRUSH STROKES

For Sage, attending the Parisian sex club, Plaisirs Sombres, was the ultimate fantasy. So when the conservative gallery assistant is cloaked behind the velvet mask, she never expected to be the object of the club owner's desire. Spurred on by D.S. Gregoire's erotic and sensual brush strokes of the exclusive club, she gives into a brief liaison that leaves her breathless and wanting.

For Damien, known to the art world as D.S. Gregoire, his art has always been an adrenaline rush. But when an exotic and mysteriously uninhibited 'sex club virgin' enters his establishment, he is willing to break his club rules for another taste of the dark pleasures she brings him.

I'm sorely lacking on posts, I know...

I'm still pulling my hair out as I work on my current proposal. Man, I didn't realize I would be dragging so much. I am usually the quickest writer I know but lately it's been a real chore. No, I still love writing...I just need to get to that place where everything clicks and I haven't gotten there yet. Believe me, some days are easier than others but it seems like taking a hiatus from writing really kills your writing chi.

I will say that this time of year is my favorite. I've been bundled up in my comfy PJs and monkey sox slippers and sipping on either coffee or hot tea with honey. It makes me feel oh-so happy. Silly--but the little things really make everything better. I'm currently stuck on the over editing portion of my writing. I've freakin' re-written my first chapter 5 times now. I'm officially done....psychologically I'm going to assume I'm avoiding the moving forward part. Maybe I'm afraid of getting rejections, maybe I'm afraid there are hundreds of other authors who will fit their 'trend' and I'll be waiting forever for a response. Even though I know it's a kickass idea, I totally must learn to focus on me. Don't know why I'm getting insecure because I'm normally the type that hits 'send' and move on. Gosh, I'm growing soft. However, I swore I'd start changing things after I lost that bet to Mr. Right. :( But I couldn't help being sick for a week....right, no more excuses. Double or nothing, that's what I told him...

No more time-wasting...got to go hide in the writing cave. Without distractions I may just make it by the end of the month!

Why does the EUREKA moment feel like such a labor intensive journey?

Mr. Right and I were driving around town on his day off. He decided to ask me about my writing progress. I was reluctant to discuss it with him since I've been stuck for a few months now. I'm in what authors call the 'ick' zone--y'know, when everything reads like crap. I couldn't seem to get into the storyline hardcore like I used to because there was too much churning in my head. In fact, I was having sleepless nights from not being able to shut down my brain before bedtime. I told him about my world building and at a stop light he turned his head, pushed his sunglasses down his nose, and peered at me.





Mr. Right: You know what you need to do?

Me: What?!

Mr. Right: Keep it simple.

I pouted.

That was the end of the conversation.

Not the one in my head, mind you, but at least it dawned on me that he was right. If anyone knows me, I'm the most stubborn soul and I can argue for days on any topic...but in this case I knew it was a losing fight.

When I think up a storyline I tend to build my universe like I would in a high concept movie. My ideas take on a life of its own and when it does, I want to put everything I see in my mind's eye into the manuscript. I want to fill in enough details to help the reader understand what I'm seeing...but as readers, no one wants to have to learn about the world--they want to live it.

A part of maturing as a writer is understanding and accepting defeat. I realize that to be a successful writer I need to think like a reader again. I need to make the world I build more intimate and believable. Mostly, I need to keep it simple. I'm one who totally hates re-writes but I know when I do start over I'm going to do it right the second time around. Now that I've caught up on all my graphics work, I must do the thing that I've been pushing aside. I'm going to finish my proposal so I can finally send it out. I'm hoping that this eye opening words of wisdom from Mr. Right will help me get a contract by the end of the year! That's my goal and I'm sticking to it.

Now go write....

People have been passing the bloody cold around like it's candy. Mr. Right brought it home from work last week and while I was nursing him all weekend (and most of this week), I could feel myself feeling not so Jax. I personally enjoy being healthy because I love being obsessive and work like a fiend. It's a natural part of me... Unfortunately, I had to endure all kinds of crazy aches and pains and congestion. Not to mention that it only added to additional body pains I already have to live with but that's another story. I'm hoping that I'll be back to normal by the end of the week because I still have a heck of a lot to do!

Funny how much television you watch when you're laid up. I watched several documentaries and one was on HBO about Maurice Sendak who wrote WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE. It was a brilliant piece and really gave insight into the artist/author. He's so tortured, says it like he means it, and there's a deep pain and vulnerability to the man. It really made me think about artists and authors and what we share inside our own projects. Watching this documentary made me more eager to see the actual movie that was written and directed by Spike Jonze. Coincidentally, Spike is doing the interview in this and he's adorable! I hear WTWTA movie is a great adaptation that really shows the essence of the book. You can tell that he'd do it justice because of the visible friendship and camaraderie he has with Maurice. YAY, SPIKE!

I was pretty much caught up on all my reality tv dosage. I'm not so sure I should have watched Hell's Kitchen. I knew Gordon Ramsay would go for the underdog...but DAVE! C'mon, I couldn't stand him nor did I have any sympathy for his constant whining throughout the season! He broke his own bloody wrist washing a firetruck! HE was a total jerk during the last food service by acting like a wannabe Gordon Ramsay. There's no respect for it. As much as I have a love-hate for KEVIN, I truly saw how professional he was by keeping his cool during his food service. I was literally yelling WTF so many times that Mr. Right had to laugh...dear Gordon did it to me again! Last year it was DANNY and I about boycotted the show. Don't you all see a resemblance to the two guys who won? I realize that Gordon may see some special spark in the two men he's chosen but for goodness sakes, they look like they wouldn't know what to do at a five star restaurant if it hit them in the face! At least attempt to be savvy! Don't get me wrong, I love the underdogs but when I see professional chefs acting like morons and still win the love of the viewing audience ... I just have to shake my head and let it go or I'll have an aneurysm for over thinking it. Anywoo, I'm going to consider seriously if it's worth watching next year when I know Gordon will disappoint me, yet again...

Okay, I'm rambling but it's simply that when I'm on some sort of meds I feel the need to be vocal. LOL -- I'm going to spare you all and shut up so I can get back to whatever I was doing. But on a happy note....I did get to see THE PROPOSAL and it's a delicious eye candy movie. I totally love Ryan Reynolds even more than I do already. These RomComs are so formulaic but I can't help loving them anyway. It's all about the way it makes me feel when I'm down and icky...I get all warm and fuzzy inside and oh-so emotional. Colds + RomCom = Crybaby. I think the hormones like to be stirred and I get all weepy at the drop of a hat. Not that I cry often but sometimes it's good to, y'know.

On that note, I need to try to get some work done today even if my head is in a haze and all I want to do is eat soup and sleep!

When I think of passion, beyond the pages of my novels, I think of other creative-types and what drives them to make their dreams a reality. Being such an art lover, in all forms, it's always nice to be able to share things in common with your partner. Lately, Mr. Right and I have really been enjoying documentaries, especially fashion ones. We've talked about the 'Valentino' documentary for a long while and decided to pick it up at Blockbusters last night. I have to say, it was one of the most beautifully made movies I've seen in a long while...

The movie VALENTINO, THE LAST EMPEROR gives insight into one of the most beloved designers of our time. It showcased his passion for life, his art, his gorgeous creations. The story didn't just focus on his fashion empire, but also about his love affair that spanned 50+ years with his partner, Giancarlo Giammetti. I was pulled into the story from the beginning and was engaged to the end.

There was so many interesting facets of the movie, especially seeing Valentino's seamstresses hand-stitch every gown just from his renderings. I was deeply inspired. I could imagine how amazing it would feel to put so much love and detail into each piece. Although Valentino was the face of the documentary, without Giancarlo, there would not have been an air of intimacy to the film. Without seeing both points-of-view, we would not see that the brand is spectacular because of both of them working side by side. They poured their passions into building the empire...and they poured their hearts into their relationship.

The highlight of the movie for me was seeing Valentino do all the hand-sketches of the designs. He was the sole creator and he didn't use assistants like other fashion houses who have a team to create their designs under their umbrella. I totally adored Giancarlo's business savvy tactics and the behind-the-scenes drama in order to make sure everything ran smoothly. Most of the time Valentino was oblivious to the inner workings of the company and the couple's bantering was hilarious and endearing.

What did I take from the movie? I totally related to Valentino because he was so passionate about his designs that he often neglected the responsibilities that lay beyond the fashion. He walked among the clouds when it came to his vision and his art...which I most definitely do. I could see Mr. Right being my Giancarlo. He always walks alongside me in every facet of my life and is the one who brings me back to reality.

This movie was a reminder that sometimes achieving success doesn't have to be a sole venture. Success comes quicker when you have that support system, when you allow someone you totally trust--who is your other brain, your conscience, and your anchor--to help you along. I've always been a stubborn person but it's not so bad when you can share your space with someone who completes you. In the past, when I felt like there was no one around that understood me...there is now...and that's when I see the passion and the force behind what drives a person to make things happen.

It's funny how easy it is to lose momentum and then...motivation. I had to laugh at the text on the picture I posted.

I'm not a lazy person, honest! And I definitely care or else I wouldn't choose writing as a career. I guess I'm the type of person who wants to do too many things at once...which is the curse of an artist. I am currently trudging through this paranormal and as much as I love love it, I'm letting a lot of my fears and anxieties get to me. The market is tough right now and unless you've established yourself pre-economy dump, then you've got more to prove to the editors if you want a slot for 2010 and beyond. I've got a paranormal circulating and it's gotten a handful of rejections so far because it's not vampires or werewolves. It's too complex, it's not what they're looking for. Well, it makes an author's life difficult when they want you to go outside the box and do a storyline that isn't the typical and when you present it, they don't know what to do with it so they pass. It's about the sure deal, the sure reader pick and if our stories don't fall into what's hot right now...you better hold onto that manuscript for when the trend swings another direction. Why am I rambling about this? Well, I've pretty much forgotten about that paranormal series because I know once I've got a product that will sell, I'll eventually get to pick that Project X back up again.

Right now, I'm putting on my fast draft hat because I've got a bet to win. As I was going through the storyline in my head and fleshing it out even more...I thought I'd start sharing some tips to get a writer going....I think I'm the only one so far in my Los Angeles chapter LARA that has ever finished writing a novel in two weeks so I still hold the record even though I'm no longer with them...that's why I'm going to share my secret with you...

1. Write as if your literary career depends on it. -- Basically, put yourself in a position where you give yourself a deadline. Maybe a month, maybe three but write without re-reading or editing. When you stop for the day, don't look back because tomorrow you're going to keep going from that stopping point. No peeking until you reach 'the end' because once you stop, you might as well forget finishing.
2. Leave out details and subplots. -- The point is that you want to write out the story so you shouldn't dwell too much on the details and subplots. You'll have time to fill in the holes during the editing process. I'm one of those authors who like to over-edit and can't seem to shut off but when I am able to, I've surpassed my writing goals. Your head will naturally write down the most important parts even if you don't realize it. The point is that if you dwell too much on the subplots you'll forget the writing part. It's okay to take notes on your notepad of things that need to change like inconsistency, new h/h names, or general things that must be included but don't let the notes make you lose the momentum.
3. Be realistic, be wise. -- Everyone's got a life whether you're a mother, have a day job, or going to school..but you have to pace yourself. Carve a little time out of each day and make yourself stick to it. Make it your 'career' and you know what office hours you want to keep. Don't make unrealistic goals like you're going to finish in a month when it will take you 6 months to a year to complete due to all those personal and outside obligations. Make wise choices and as much time as you can dedicate to writing is a step forward. Don't be discouraged because even if you write 1-5 pages a day, that's progress.
4. Believe in yourself. -- If you miss a work day or two, it's bound to happen. Don't be so hard on yourself because you can always make up for loss time. The important thing is to have faith in your writing and your abilities. If you don't believe in yourself or your writing, why write? Look, we all have those bad days but by allowing yourself to stay in that mindset isn't going to make you a better writer. It takes plenty of practice, plenty of rejections, and plenty of tough-love ahead to get you to that place you're finally comfortable with. I've written a little more than a handful of books and I still haven't reached that place. I know it takes time and if you really really want to be a writer--YOU HAVE TO WRITE!

Good luck! I'm heading back into the writing cave. Yes...I will stay off social networks for the next week....ok, at least I'll try. :)

I've been consumed with graphics and web stuff. Besides re-designing my website, I just finished up Romance Divas as well. It was loooooong overdue, let me tell you.

But distractions keep coming...my good friend Gemma Halliday just had a bouncing baby boy late last night and I'm excited to be an auntie! I'm also happy to report mother and baby are both doing well :)

Then there's going to be a giveaway at Nikki Duncan's blog on Sunday where Joyfully Reviewed is sponsoring the event. My book THE LOTUS BLOSSOM CHRONICLES is among the ones they're giving out.

On the writing front...I know...I was supposed to start earlier this week but design got in the way. So, I'm starting my schedule Monday--pronto! Looks like I'll be locked up in the writing cave because I have a deal with Mr. Right that I'll be done in 2 weeks. That's including the polish. I work better under deadlines and I will totally be gloating when it comes true--You know it!

Things are looking up now and I'm going to ignore the distractions so it's gonna be a whole lot better. I'm excited about picking up my paranormal because the heroine is SO Kick-A$$ that I wish I was her. The hero is a yummy Japanese science geek which I kind of modeled after Agent Zero (Daniel Henney) in Wolverine. For some reason, I have a good picture of the heroine in my head but no celebrity image comes to mind. She's a sassy Frenchie with lots of sarcasm and fashionable to boot! Okay, as I keep the dialogue going...I will let you all know if this project lands a home in the very near future...which would only mean I will be perpetually under the gun to write. Hummm, not so bad really. But then there's the five other projects I have right behind this one....

Enjoy the changing season...slip on those UGGs! (I know I will...)