Writing

What's that saying about the best laid plans of mice and men? They often go a stray...

My lofty (okay, they really aren't that lofty) writing goals this past week were not exactly met. However, I did manage to add more words to my current untitled WIP, I did write the first draft of my children's picture book, and I did some editing on my first novel, The Rush of Betrayal, for my upcoming writer's group meeting, so I am moving forward on multiple fronts. I know, I know, I mentioned how I dislike working on many projects simultaneously, but...but...what can I say--I'm human. I change my mind from time to time. Besides, the muse decided to nudge me into writing the children's book and now I have to polish that a bit more so I can bring it to my other writer's group meeting next week.

Yes, I belong to two different writer's groups. I'll talk about them more in an upcoming entry.

My oldest son is anxious to read more of my current WIP. He'll turn 15 later this month, and over the weekend he was pestering me to let him read the new pages. I must say, it's very strange listening to him talk about my characters and the problems they're facing. We spent a good hour in the car just discussing various aspects of the story. I got a kick out of seeing how enthusiastic he was--and that alone is quite a writing boost. I have a fan. (And considering how picky he is about what he likes to read, I'm happy).

My youngest son (he'll turn 5 in November) listened to the rough draft of my picture book (obviously, it had no illustrations). After I was done reading, he bluntly said, "Daddy, I liked the story, this much." He spread his index finger and thumb open almost as far as they would go. "And I didn't like it, this much." He held those same fingers about a half an inch a part.

"I'm glad you liked it, but what didn't you like about the story?"

"It didn't have any pictures..."

So there you go.

My little girl (she'll turn 2 in November) waited until he was done talking, and then walked over and gave me a hug. I don't know if that meant she liked the story, or that she felt sorry for me for the harsh criticism I'd just received from her brother, but honestly the reason really didn't matter. Hugs from her are just sweet.

Take care, my friends. Be well, and write often.