15 Books

I saw a friend post this on Facebook and thought it sounded like fun.

Fifteen books you’ve read that will always stick with you. First 15 you can recall in no more than 15 minutes.

1. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
2. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
3. The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand
4. The Awakening by Kate Chopin
5. Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver
6. The Guernesy Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Anne Shaffer and Annie Barrows
7. Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott
8. Traveling Mercies by Anne Lamott
9. Plan B by Anne Lamot
10. Ariel by Sylvia Plath
11. East of Eden by John Steinbeck
12. Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf
13. The Journals of Sylvia Plath
14. The Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson
15. Self Reliance by Emerson

It’s funny to Anne Lamott & Sylvia Plath keep repeating. They’ve been my favorites over the past few years. Now it’s your turn. Leave your list in the comments, or a link to your blog.

Family Time (WARNING: CUTE PICS!!)

I traded big city buildings for big rolling mountains last week and went to visit my family in Narrows. Sometimes life gets a bit confusing and a girl just needs to go home and be with the people that have known her the longest.

It was a good trip full of family fun, gardening, writing and enjoying the beauty of mountains.

It rained nearly every day I was there, but we had one beautiful summery day and spent it playing in the pool with my nephew and nieces. Of course, this means you are about to be overwhelmed by their cuteness with a few pictures I took.

Kennedy

Kaydance

Landon

Kennedy

Kaydance

Fawntane and the girls

Fawntane & Kennedy

Kaydance

The girls watering flowers I planted

Landon asking me not to take his picture

Tags: Family

Overcoming Brain Fog

Yesterday I heard the end of All Things Considered, just in time to catch the You Must Read This segment. Author Jeffery Eugenides shared one of his writing secrets: how to overcome fog brain. I don’t know if you struggle with fog brain, but I battle it most days. And most days I give up and take a nap.

I found Eugenides words to be very inspiring, and wanted to share them here.  (Or if you would prefer to listen to the segment, visit You Must Read This.)

There’s a little thing I do when I can’t write: When I’m feeling sleepy, when my head is in a fog, I reach across my desk, digging under the piles of unanswered mail, to unearth my copy of Herzog by Saul Bellow. And then I open the book — anywhere— and read a paragraph.

It always works. Right away I’m restored to full alertness and clarity. Style, in literature, has gone out of style. People think it’s just ornament. But it’s not: The work that goes into a writer’s style, the choices that are taken, the cliches that are chucked, represent a refining of thought and feeling into their purest, most intelligent, most moral form.

Of course, there is a danger, with a great stylist, that the sentences will outclass what the sentences are about. Not with Bellow. Bellow gets the mix between form and content about as right as possible. His sentences pack maximum sensual, emotional and intellectual information into minimum space — all the while generating an involving, deeply moving story.

Published in 1964, Herzog is about a middle-aged college professor, in the midst of an emotional crisis, who begins writing letters: “He had fallen under a spell,” Bellow writes, “and was writing letters to everyone under the sun. . . . Hidden in the country, he wrote endlessly, fanatically, to the newspapers, to people in public, to friends and relatives and at last to the dead, his own obscure dead, and finally the famous dead.” The book zooms off from there. Herzog goes from New York, to Martha’s Vineyard, to Chicago, to the Berkshires, penning his funny, serious, brilliant, self-lacerating, accusatory letters, each one acting like a new screen in a hypertext novel that opens an entirely different piece of his life: his immigrant childhood in Montreal; his indomitable ex-wife Madeleine; his numerous lady friends; his free-falling career, his pain at losing his daughter in divorce. Bellow, the supreme realist, discovered in Herzog a new form — the self-reflexive epistolary novel — without any of the obscurantism or self-preening of so-called “experimental” novels.

Herzog worried that his frantic letter-writing meant he was “out of [his] mind.” But, in the last 45 years, his predicament has become universal. Herzog’s life resembles the way we live now, where we’re forever sending off e-mail and texts, fielding cell phone calls: where we’re no longer any one place but everywhere — and nowhere — at once. Our life in shards, randomly returning.

The mark of a truly original work of art is that is gets truer the older it is.

The impulse here is to quote. Every single page of Herzog teems with jokes, apercus, deep-thinker riffs — little genius moves every other sentence. The impulse is to read the entire book out loud. But I’ve only got a minute here, time to make the pitch but not go nine innings.

So let me say this: If you’re in the market for a safe neuro-enhancer, something to break you out of your foggy-headedness, a pill more powerful than Adderall or Provigil, with no side effects other than pleasure, then pick up Herzog and open it — anywhere — and read.

Sylvia Plath has been my safe neuro-enhancer over the past few years. It never fails that when I’m feeling fog brained and lose sight of why I want to write I can pick up Ariel or her unabridged journals and instantly feel renewed.

Who or what gets you through those moments when you feel exhausted with everything in life?

70 pages a month

In “Writing Down the Bones”, Natalie Goldberg tells stories and gives tips from her life as a writer. She calls her daily writing “practice” and equates it to meditation and practicing Zen. Over and over she talks about her spiral bound notebooks. Years ago she made a commitment to herself to fill a 70 page spiral bound notebook each month. I’ve heard of other writers making similar commitments. Write everyday for 1 hour each day. Or, as I have done in the past, practice Morning Pages from “The Artist’s Way”, which is writing 3 pages each day. Write 500 words a day. Keep a dream journal. Write the day’s events before going to bed each night. Keep note cards in your purse because you never know when or how inspiration will strike. Share your writing with others. Write all the junk that goes through your head that says you are not a good writer and should be washing the dishes instead – then throw it away.

I’ve tried them all. And here is what I’ve found that works: just write. Find a balance that works for you. If you can write everyday, that’s fine. If you can write one evening a week, that is fine too. Be gentle with yourself, don’t judge and don’t feel guilty for not writing more or better, or without spelling errors. Just write.

My interest in writing grew out of my passion for literature, and I’ve found that writing takes me to places I could not have gotten to otherwise. It is space to explore my emotions, problems, dreams and even boredom. It takes me to the place inside where I store all my truths. I love the experience of pouring everything that I have out onto a piece of paper until I think I have nothing left to give, but then feeling myself become full and whole again. I’ve known nothing else like it. The closest experience I can think is the release and centering that happens after having a good, hard cry.

There is no wrong way to practice writing. Everyone has their own tricks and tips, that is why there are thousands of books and blogs about writing. Also because I think writers often enjoy reading about writing as much as they actually enjoy writing.

Anyway, here are some tips that I do practice with my writing:

• I do not edit while writing.
• I keep a list of topics at the front of my notebook for times when I want to write, but don’t know what about.
• I tend not to set a limit, I just write until I’m done or tired – then I try to write a little more. I’ve got this funny idea that is how I will build up endurance.
• I can’t buy pretty, expensive notebooks – they are too intimidating.
• Sometimes I write, “I don’t know what to write.” Over and over again until something comes up.
• A walk or a few minutes of yoga is a great way to start a writing practice.
• Sometimes a new practice can energize my writing because I like the challenge. For example, for the month of May I’m going to attempt Natalie’s practice of filling up a 70-page spiral notebook.
• I am one who enjoys reading about writing as much as I enjoy writing because I need to be fed. I need the encouragement, the inspiration, the words of wisdom – and the reminder that nearly every writer struggles from time to time.

For those of you who write or journal, what pieces of wisdom have you picked up over the years?

Flavor of the Week

On my iTunes:

Loving “Writing Down the Bones”  by Natalie Goldberg.

I splurged to buy the audio recording, and it was well worth it. Listening to Natalie tell stories is becoming what I look forward to most each day.

Book on my nightstand:

Debating on what to read next. Here are some options, what do you guys think:

The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

One Writer's Beginnings by Eudroa Welty

Drink in my cup:

Virginia made beer.

This weekend I fell in love with Star Hill's The Love.

Task keeping my hands busy:

Gardening & yard work. Lots of work has been done, and there is still lots to do. Maybe if it ever stops raining I will take some pictures for you.

Stay Tuned

I’ve been a slacker lately with blogging, but that’s about to change. Over the next few weeks I’ll be adding some new stuff on here about writing, my journey over the past several months and finding (err…searching for?) fulfillment in life. On my professional blog I’ll be writing about social media, communication, marketing and fun businessy stuff. Also over the next few weeks I’ll be re-launching my website and growing my business.

Lots of plans, here’s hoping I get most of it done. Along with the laundry and gardening.

It’s April….

Notice the lack of posting around here? Well, that is because it’s April. The most difficult time of the year for me as I “prepare” for the anniversary of when Jarrett was killed. I’ve been feeling a lot of stress and worry about the upcoming anniversary, but I’m trying to be gentle on myself.

Anyway, some very nice folks in Giles County have offered to host a golf tournament in honor of Jarrett, with all proceeds going to his memorial fund. Even if you are not a golfer, please help us spread the word!

Here are the details:

Castle Rock Golf and Recreation of Pembroke, VA will host a golf tournament in honor of Jarrett Lane, one of the 32 students killed at VA Tech on April 16^th, 2007. All proceeds will benefit the Jarrett Lane Memorial Fund and its mission to better the future of deserving youth in Giles Country.

The tournament will be held on Saturday May 9th, with a tee time of 9:00am. Teams of four will play on one of the area’s most beautiful and challenging golf courses. The registration fee is $300 per team, and teams can register by calling the golf course before May 8^th at (540) 626-7276.

Just to let you know, the Jarrett Lane Memorial Fund is used to provide college scholarships to Narrows High Grad. We have a vision of expanding this to provide financial assistance to deserving youth in Giles County who wish to participate in various academic, athletic and leadership development programs.

Tags: Family, Insanity, jarrett

Clothes Swap!

It’s time for another clothes swap, ladies!

"My Wife Needs Clothes" by House

Clean out your closets and bring all your unwanted clothes to my house on Saturday for the ultimate swapping event. Trade in that ugly sweater your aunt gave you at Christmas for your friend’s cute pink skirt that you’ve been lusting after!

Clothes, shoes, purses, accessories, and anything else you want to get out of your house (husbands, children and pets are not included in this offer). I might throw in some home decor stuff.

I will have snacks and mimosas. Also, it’s an open invitation to all women who have junk in their trunk…I mean, unwanted clothes in their closets.

When: Saturday 3/21, 11am-2pm

Where: My house (leave comment or email for directions)

Why: Because we love new clothes, even “new-to-me” clothes.

Image by House.

Tags: clothes swap

High School….a decade later

This year marks 10 years since I graduated high school, so that means it’s time for a reunion. Mine has been scheduled for sometime this summer, but tonight some of my former classmates are gathering to plan the celebration. I’ve decided to make the drive back  home to attend the planning party.

I still have extra envelopes from these announcements and the matching thank-you cards

There were only 5o-some people in my high school class, but even with a class so small we still had our cliques and drama. I wonder how that will affect us 10 years later. I don’t think I was really involved in the drama. I guess it was hard to get involved since I kept my nose in a book or was too busy with sports & clubs. But, that also meant I didn’t have a lot of close friends who knew me well. I think most people considered me a “friendly” person, but I only had a couple of close friends. And, since our graduation a decade ago, I haven’t spoken to, seen or had any contact with most of the people from my class.

Don't you think more people should wear solid gold gowns?!

Needless to say, I’m a little nervous about tonight. Luckily we are meeting at a place that I hear has good beer. That should help take the edge off. Plus it will be entertaining because only two or three of my former classmates have seen me drink or heard/understood my slightly inappropriate sense of humor.

Tags: high school, Narrows

A Tribute to My Devote Blog-Reader

Rarely do I let my reader(s) now how much you guy(s) mean to me and how wonderful you are.

So, here is a little tribute, just for you.

Tags: Blog, silly

Blogging Thoughts

Last night I went to Refresh Richmond’s monthly meeting. This month they gathered a panel of local professional bloggers. Telling us their stories, we got an pretty good review of the start, growth and success of This Young House, Mac Rumors, and, one of my favorite blogs, Tobacco Avenue.

The discussion got me thinking about my blog, and just blogging in general. If you’ve got a minute, would you mind answering a couple questions about your blogging habits?

What are some of your favorite blogs?

Do you read your favorite blogs for information, inspiration or entertainment?

Do you blog? Why?

Tags: blogging

Flavor of the Week

On my iTunes:

I found my iPod and want to load it up with podcasts that will help me focus more on work.

Book on my nightstand:

I finished reading The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society, and I loved it!

Now I’m reading The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion.

Ms. Didion recorded her journey through grief in this book which she wrote a year after her husband suddenly died from a heart attack. This will be the first book that I’ve attempted to read about grief since Jarrett died and I’m nervous about what it may unveil within me. But, I’ve realized that I need find ways to understand my grief, and I think this book may be a helpful tool.

Drink in my cup:

I have decided to attempt making my own Kombucha (fermented tea). I’ve heard and read the praises of many people who have felt the health benefits of Kombucha, so I thought I’d give it a shot.

Latest add to my Google Reader:

So, this is not the newest addition to my must-read blogs, it’s actually one of the first blogs I ever fell in love with (aka, became addicited to).

Adorable banner LJC created for her blog.

If you like things such as DYI projects, crafting, photography/design, gardening/home-improvement projects and cuteness, then you must check out LJCFYI.

Tags: Flavor of the week, Reading

Top 3 Internet Time-Wasters

I’m going to guess that like me, many of you have a lengthy to-do list you’d like to tackle this weekend. Mine includes finishing up some projects for work, cleaning out my flower beds and conquering the mountain of laundry that I’m fairly certain has devoured at least one of my cats.

But, instead of getting started on my to-do list, I’ve decided to waste time playing on the internet. Here’s a list of my favorite things that I’ve discovered on the internet while procrastinating on my to-do list:

1. I found a way to express my inner-hero.

My super powers include flying throughout the city saving stray cats!

2.  I started following askastripper on Twitter. You never know when you might have a question that only a stripper could answer, or what valuable insight she might have into life’s everyday dilemmas. Also, I love that she uses phrases like “Peace, love & boobies”!!!

3.  Much to her disliking, I’ve decided to search the internet for a boyfriend for one of my single friends. Let’s just call this friend Kitty. Kitty isn’t the kind of girl that’s desperate for a boy, but this isn’t about her, it’s about me finding new ways to waste time on the internet. By using one of my other friend’s Match.com account I have found the perfect guy for Kitty. I’ve spent some time trying to stalk this guy on Facebook & MySpace, but still haven’t found him.

So, there you have it, my top 3 internet-time wasters. Go forth and have fun creating your own hero. Maybe you can ask the stripper for advice. And please, give your superhero the power of internet stalking so I can continue to embarrass my sweet friend, Kitty.

Tags: Friends, goofing off

Work, Bad Circus and Cute Kids

Work

I’ve had a run of good luck lately with obtaining new clients and projects! Which has been good when realizing I need to make money, but not so good when I realized this means less time can be spent napping.

Circus

Yesterday I drove to Roanoke to attend the circus with Fawn, her kids, my mom and grandmother. This circus was organized by the Shriners, and from what I can tell it was the George Carden Circus. I’ve been to the circus a few times in my life, but tend to avoid them these days because I’m afraid of clowns. Although, when offered a ticket to go with my nephew & nieces on their first trip to the circus, I couldn’t decline.

Luckily for them they are so young they will not remember this circus. However for me, I will be forced to live the rest of my life haunted by things I saw. Here are three reasons why I will never again go to a George Carden circus:

1.  All the circus ladies wear thongs under their very, very short skirts. Well, except for two special ladies who I swear were wearing hand-me-down Playboy Bunny costumes with big purple bows placed right where the good Lord split them. I saw more ass at this family-friendly event than I’ve seen in women’s locker rooms.

2.  In one of their skits, a clown paraded around with a pistol, held a clown at gun-point and killed the other clowns. The killings were complete with sound effects of shots. Um, wtf?? I don’t even know what to say.

3.  Over-priced everything. Sure, the kids got in free, but the cost of activities and food inside now means that one of them will not be able to go to college. After spending about $60, the kids got to ride an elephant twice around a 20-ft circus and ponies around another small ring.

Cute Kids

Need to recover from the circus nightmare? Got the image of circus ass stuck in your head? Well, replace it with these sweethearts. I’m saving my money to buy some kisses.

Kisses for Sale

Ewww....

Practicing for V-day

Ladies Man

Kennedy

Kaydance

Sweet Sisters

Tags: Family, Honey

Why I write

I spent some time reading The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society last night and came across a passage that perfectly showcases why I want to devote my energy and time to writing.

The following passage is from one of the literary society members in letter which he said that he had not really touched a book since he was in school, but in the literary society discovered Shakespeare. He realized the power of words, especially a famous quote from Antony & Cleopatra.

“I wish I’d known those words on the day I watched those German troops land, plane-load after plane-load of them – and come off ships down in the harbor! All I could think of was damn them, damn them, over and over. If I could have thought the words, ‘the bright day is done and we are for the dark’, I’d have been consoled somehow and ready to go out and contend with circumstance – instead of my heart sinking to my shoes.”

Yes, I know, that Shakespeare guy was sort of a genius at storytelling and quite the wordsmith. But, I sill have hope that my words may find the right person, at the right time and give them hope.

Tags: the guernsey literary and potato peel pie society, Writing