MERRY CHRISTMAS !
Bob and Margaret joined me Thursday night for our meeting. And I did have some Christmas baking to share.
Bob brought an article Susan had sent him, that she had written and which was published in The Telegram in St. John’s. It was a personal article called “Baby Wonder”, about her and Chris having Declan, their fifth child, after the failure of his vasectomy. The article had a full page spread and family pictures, and a warm and fuzzy ending. Nice to see that Susan is in print again.
Bob also brought an article by Pete McMartin in the Vancouver Sun about restaurants being too pretentious, and they are now losing patrons who are becoming more conscious of their spending since the economic meltdown of 2008.
He didn’t have any writing of his own to read, but Bob did say he replied to the letter he received from the Lt. Colonel.
Margaret read from the Peabody collection about Sir Donald Die being unable to rid the town of Wickerton of all its ghosts. But Rev. Peabody didn’t believe his manse had any ghosts and he went up to bed. Shortly after, Marie came in and saw the swaying rocking chair and smelled tobacco smoke, but nobody was there and the Reverend didn’t smoke. And Rev. Peasly was beginning to think the reason Barker gnawed on furniture was that he sensed the presence of ghosts.
I read the next chapter in “Fire”. Cam and Miles and Lucy are together at Cam’s. Miles had arrived to say there is a fire at #337, which is owned by Lucy’s Dad. Cam phones his Mom. Lucy phones her Dad, who is very angry and she becomes upset. Cam tries to comfort her even though he has his own suspicions. Miles just wants to go watch the fire. There are a number of phone calls from news media wanting information, and Miles is even more anxious to be out where the T.V. cameras might be. Cam gets his jacket and dons his favourite baseball cap as well, and the three of them go to watch the fire. Cam’s Mom is avoiding the media, but Miles rushes toward the T.V. crew.
We are taking a break over Christmas now. The next meeting will be Thursday, January 8th at 7:00 p.m. at my place. In the meantime, have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, and be sure to spend some time with your Muse.
Best Wishes to All the Ram’s Head Writers and hope to see you in the New Year,
Lisa
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Sunday, November 23, 2008
THE REVIEW
LAUGHING ALL THE WAY
Margaret was still laughing at Thursday’s meeting about her exploits trying to vote in the civic elections on the 15th of this month. She wrote and sent a letter to the editor at both The Langley Times and The Langley Advance, which I spied in both papers. The mavens in charge of voter registration were making her jump through hoops they couldn’t see to prove who she was and where she lived, just to cast a ballot in voting booths where the pens didn’t work. And her son, with the same last name and the same address, had just voted. Only a writer would laugh at and write about the ambiguity of bureaucracy. Thank God for free speech (press).
Margaret also had a bad bruise on her right arm. There was a paper jam in her photo copier, so she pushed her hand in to pull the paper out, but got stuck. Not able to reach the phone or carry the copier over to it, she resorted to giving her hand a mighty pull and injured herself. Who says writers don’t need WCB coverage? This is dangerous work!
Bob read first, a letter he received in response to his letter he sent to “any Canadian soldier”. The reply that he received was from Lt. Col. Mark John Gendron. He is a legal advisor to the Regional Command in Afghanistan. This is his 3rd deployment overseas, and he has been there this time for almost a year. He is married and lives near Kingston, Ontario. Fascinating.
Bob also read a short piece he had written that day, called “Retirement”. It was an introspective piece musing about how his life had always been too busy to just sit and enjoy watching nature, as he had done for an hour on Thursday. It’s an excellent piece of writing and we encourage him to send it to Today’s Senior Newsmagazine. We could tell Bob put his heart into writing this piece and think he should do more of that.
Margaret re-wrote her chapter “Ghosts”, deleting some names and changing others. She read the second draft for us and we all agreed it reads much better.
I read Chapter 15 from my novel, which has Fiona and Tanner doing dinner at a local restaurant after he gets his car from the impound lot. He is grilling her about the complex she manages, trying to find somewhere to look for the arsonist, some motive for the crime. She takes a call at the end of their dinner, thinking it’s her son asking when she’s coming home. But he’s calling to tell her there’s another fire and #337. Tanner starts to ask her what’s happening, when his own phone rings and he’s told the same thing by the police department.
A couple of years ago, I wrote a short piece called “Nostalgia”, about a New Year’s Eve that Bryon and I listened to old records. Last week I submitted it to Today’s Senior Newsmagazine and hope they will use it for their January issue.
Next meeting here at my place Thursday, December 4th at 7:00 p.m. Really hope to see you then.
Lisa
Margaret was still laughing at Thursday’s meeting about her exploits trying to vote in the civic elections on the 15th of this month. She wrote and sent a letter to the editor at both The Langley Times and The Langley Advance, which I spied in both papers. The mavens in charge of voter registration were making her jump through hoops they couldn’t see to prove who she was and where she lived, just to cast a ballot in voting booths where the pens didn’t work. And her son, with the same last name and the same address, had just voted. Only a writer would laugh at and write about the ambiguity of bureaucracy. Thank God for free speech (press).
Margaret also had a bad bruise on her right arm. There was a paper jam in her photo copier, so she pushed her hand in to pull the paper out, but got stuck. Not able to reach the phone or carry the copier over to it, she resorted to giving her hand a mighty pull and injured herself. Who says writers don’t need WCB coverage? This is dangerous work!
Bob read first, a letter he received in response to his letter he sent to “any Canadian soldier”. The reply that he received was from Lt. Col. Mark John Gendron. He is a legal advisor to the Regional Command in Afghanistan. This is his 3rd deployment overseas, and he has been there this time for almost a year. He is married and lives near Kingston, Ontario. Fascinating.
Bob also read a short piece he had written that day, called “Retirement”. It was an introspective piece musing about how his life had always been too busy to just sit and enjoy watching nature, as he had done for an hour on Thursday. It’s an excellent piece of writing and we encourage him to send it to Today’s Senior Newsmagazine. We could tell Bob put his heart into writing this piece and think he should do more of that.
Margaret re-wrote her chapter “Ghosts”, deleting some names and changing others. She read the second draft for us and we all agreed it reads much better.
I read Chapter 15 from my novel, which has Fiona and Tanner doing dinner at a local restaurant after he gets his car from the impound lot. He is grilling her about the complex she manages, trying to find somewhere to look for the arsonist, some motive for the crime. She takes a call at the end of their dinner, thinking it’s her son asking when she’s coming home. But he’s calling to tell her there’s another fire and #337. Tanner starts to ask her what’s happening, when his own phone rings and he’s told the same thing by the police department.
A couple of years ago, I wrote a short piece called “Nostalgia”, about a New Year’s Eve that Bryon and I listened to old records. Last week I submitted it to Today’s Senior Newsmagazine and hope they will use it for their January issue.
Next meeting here at my place Thursday, December 4th at 7:00 p.m. Really hope to see you then.
Lisa
Sunday, November 9, 2008
THE RAM'S HEAD REVIEW
NOVEMBER RAIN
In spite of the heavy rain, Bob and Margaret joined me for a meeting of three on Thursday.
Bob read first, listing three different jewellery manufacturers. They were Birkett & Cobold, Dave Manson, and H.J. Anstie. Bob is finding it hard slogging collecting information for his informal history. It’s hard to get motivated to search the archives for the data he thinks he needs. He finds that endeavor very dry and boring. Hmmm. Maybe the project needs a rethink.
Margaret read another chapter from her Peabody collection, entitled “Ghosts”. The collapse of the mine under the cemetery disturbed a bunch of ghosts, which started haunting the residents of Wickerton. Residents were all relating tales of being haunted by spirits in their own homes. Sir Charles Coffin, Baronet of London, was called in to help with the situation. There were quite a few characters in this chapter, all with names starting with the letter “C”. As a listener, it was difficult to keep straight who was who. It might be easier to do so when reading the actual words on the page. We suggested Margaret change a few names. She said she would do that and then we can compare the two versions to see which reads best.
I read chapter 14 from my novel, “Fire”. Cam arrives home just after 10:00 p.m. after he gets off work at the bowling alley, and finds his Mom isn’t there. The answering machine has a nasty message threatening his Mom, and he starts to panic, wondering where she is. Lucy, his girlfriend arrives, and tries to calm him down. He eventually phones the Detective to ask if he knows where his Mom might have gone. The Detective says he’ll have her call him. When she calls right away, he clues in to the fact his Mom is with the Detective, having dinner. He’s not impressed, but no longer afraid for her safety. He turns his attention to Lucy and takes her jacket. A lighter falls out of her pocket, but she doesn’t smoke. He wonders what else he doesn’t know about her, and wonders if she has anything to do with the fires.
On Friday, I picked up the November issue of Today’s Senior Newsmagazine at the IHOP restaurant in Langley, and was pleased to see Gemma’s story “How My Sister Saved Her Marriage?” was in it on Page 6. Congratulations Gemma!
I had a request from a writing website called Writing Raw to exchange links. Unfortunately, since Sonny, our administrator, is still in Afghanistan I have no way of updating our website until he returns next spring, except for using this blog. He can’t do it from over there, and I’m not technically savvy enough to do it myself. This particular website is for writers who want to “meet” online and submit pieces and critique for others as well. I will forward the link to you in a separate email in case anyone is interested.
Next meeting will be Thursday, November 20th, here at my place at 7:00 p.m. May you all be motivated to write in the meantime. Love to see you on the 20th.
Lisa
In spite of the heavy rain, Bob and Margaret joined me for a meeting of three on Thursday.
Bob read first, listing three different jewellery manufacturers. They were Birkett & Cobold, Dave Manson, and H.J. Anstie. Bob is finding it hard slogging collecting information for his informal history. It’s hard to get motivated to search the archives for the data he thinks he needs. He finds that endeavor very dry and boring. Hmmm. Maybe the project needs a rethink.
Margaret read another chapter from her Peabody collection, entitled “Ghosts”. The collapse of the mine under the cemetery disturbed a bunch of ghosts, which started haunting the residents of Wickerton. Residents were all relating tales of being haunted by spirits in their own homes. Sir Charles Coffin, Baronet of London, was called in to help with the situation. There were quite a few characters in this chapter, all with names starting with the letter “C”. As a listener, it was difficult to keep straight who was who. It might be easier to do so when reading the actual words on the page. We suggested Margaret change a few names. She said she would do that and then we can compare the two versions to see which reads best.
I read chapter 14 from my novel, “Fire”. Cam arrives home just after 10:00 p.m. after he gets off work at the bowling alley, and finds his Mom isn’t there. The answering machine has a nasty message threatening his Mom, and he starts to panic, wondering where she is. Lucy, his girlfriend arrives, and tries to calm him down. He eventually phones the Detective to ask if he knows where his Mom might have gone. The Detective says he’ll have her call him. When she calls right away, he clues in to the fact his Mom is with the Detective, having dinner. He’s not impressed, but no longer afraid for her safety. He turns his attention to Lucy and takes her jacket. A lighter falls out of her pocket, but she doesn’t smoke. He wonders what else he doesn’t know about her, and wonders if she has anything to do with the fires.
On Friday, I picked up the November issue of Today’s Senior Newsmagazine at the IHOP restaurant in Langley, and was pleased to see Gemma’s story “How My Sister Saved Her Marriage?” was in it on Page 6. Congratulations Gemma!
I had a request from a writing website called Writing Raw to exchange links. Unfortunately, since Sonny, our administrator, is still in Afghanistan I have no way of updating our website until he returns next spring, except for using this blog. He can’t do it from over there, and I’m not technically savvy enough to do it myself. This particular website is for writers who want to “meet” online and submit pieces and critique for others as well. I will forward the link to you in a separate email in case anyone is interested.
Next meeting will be Thursday, November 20th, here at my place at 7:00 p.m. May you all be motivated to write in the meantime. Love to see you on the 20th.
Lisa
Sunday, October 19, 2008
THE REVIEW
TOGETHER AT LAST
Finally on Thursday, October 16th, at least three of us were able to meet and honour The Muse, after several cancelled meetings. Bob and Margaret joined me, and Bob also brought his dog, Sidney (spelling?).
I did mention to them that I had found some letters my father had written to my mother during WWII, on R.C.A.F. stationery and asked if there was somewhere that would be interested in having them for historical purposes. Both Bob and Margaret suggested the R.C.A.F. Museum at the Langley Airport. I will have to make enquiries there.
Margaret read first, two chapters from the Peabody collection. The first one, “A Plan Hatched”, saw Rev. Peasly dressed up and hiding beside a headstone in the cemetery, trying to spy on Marigold. Unfortunately, Marie spotted this strange figure and reported it to the police. In the meantime, Peasly goes home but the Constable later knocks on his door to ask if he’s seen any strange character around. In “The Second Plan”, Peasly is again hiding in the cemetery and hears strange noises he thinks are coming from the grave. Scared, he runs up the hill and disappears into a sinkhole caused by the underground mines. Found next morning by Mrs. Ticks, two inebriated miners are later cajoled by Mr. Lamb into rescuing him, but he wasn’t down very far and only had to step onto the first rung of a ladder to get out. After his night in the sinkhole, he learns that Marigold is marrying Jasper Bond, not Rev. Peabody after all.
Bob read an extra piece he wrote that he will add to the section on E.J. Trailing. He wrote that because of meeting Margaret in our writing group, he learned that she had met and remembered David Laird (who later became a jeweler) when they stayed in the same house one summer as teenagers. He had offered to fix her watch and had taken it all apart, but was unable to put it back together again. Margaret’s father had to pay a jeweler to fix it properly.
I read Chapters 12 and 13 from my novel. Cam and Lucy make plans to spend the evening together watching a movie at his place, but Miles shows up and they snub him by saying they’re going to spend the evening as boyfriend and girlfriend. Miles leaves. And Fiona and Tanner are getting to know each other when she drives him to get his car at the impound lot. She doesn’t know if she should stick to just business or if she’s really attracted to him. (Bob said he could see kissy-kissy coming.)
Next meeting here at my place on Thursday, November 6th at 7:00 p.m. Really hope to see you then. In the meantime, keep your pen to paper or your hands on the keyboard and keep writing. Happy Musings!
Lisa
Finally on Thursday, October 16th, at least three of us were able to meet and honour The Muse, after several cancelled meetings. Bob and Margaret joined me, and Bob also brought his dog, Sidney (spelling?).
I did mention to them that I had found some letters my father had written to my mother during WWII, on R.C.A.F. stationery and asked if there was somewhere that would be interested in having them for historical purposes. Both Bob and Margaret suggested the R.C.A.F. Museum at the Langley Airport. I will have to make enquiries there.
Margaret read first, two chapters from the Peabody collection. The first one, “A Plan Hatched”, saw Rev. Peasly dressed up and hiding beside a headstone in the cemetery, trying to spy on Marigold. Unfortunately, Marie spotted this strange figure and reported it to the police. In the meantime, Peasly goes home but the Constable later knocks on his door to ask if he’s seen any strange character around. In “The Second Plan”, Peasly is again hiding in the cemetery and hears strange noises he thinks are coming from the grave. Scared, he runs up the hill and disappears into a sinkhole caused by the underground mines. Found next morning by Mrs. Ticks, two inebriated miners are later cajoled by Mr. Lamb into rescuing him, but he wasn’t down very far and only had to step onto the first rung of a ladder to get out. After his night in the sinkhole, he learns that Marigold is marrying Jasper Bond, not Rev. Peabody after all.
Bob read an extra piece he wrote that he will add to the section on E.J. Trailing. He wrote that because of meeting Margaret in our writing group, he learned that she had met and remembered David Laird (who later became a jeweler) when they stayed in the same house one summer as teenagers. He had offered to fix her watch and had taken it all apart, but was unable to put it back together again. Margaret’s father had to pay a jeweler to fix it properly.
I read Chapters 12 and 13 from my novel. Cam and Lucy make plans to spend the evening together watching a movie at his place, but Miles shows up and they snub him by saying they’re going to spend the evening as boyfriend and girlfriend. Miles leaves. And Fiona and Tanner are getting to know each other when she drives him to get his car at the impound lot. She doesn’t know if she should stick to just business or if she’s really attracted to him. (Bob said he could see kissy-kissy coming.)
Next meeting here at my place on Thursday, November 6th at 7:00 p.m. Really hope to see you then. In the meantime, keep your pen to paper or your hands on the keyboard and keep writing. Happy Musings!
Lisa
Sunday, October 5, 2008
THE REVIEW
THE UN-REVIEW?
The past several meetings have not materialized, so it is a little difficult to send out a Review to keep members updated. Meetings were cancelled when main participants were away or had other reasons for not attending. However, I’m still hopeful that the group will continue and so I keep scheduling meetings anyhow. The next meeting is set for Thursday, October 16th at 7:00 p.m. at my place.
Margaret has had a short story accepted by the Poetry Institute of Canada for inclusion in an anthology. I’ve had one story accepted by them as well. They do not pay for submissions, but neither do we pay for entry in their “contest”. However, we are invited to purchase the anthology. Which, when you think of it, is no different than giving your writing to a non-paying newspaper or magazine and then buying that same issue that you are published in. Anything to say and prove we’re published, right?
Marilyn had an article (or story?) published in the September issue of Senior Newsmagazine. I haven’t seen it, but thanks to a tip from Carolann, I’m hoping Marilyn was able to get a copy of that issue for her own collection of tear sheets.
Saturday, I attended the used book sale at the Fraser Valley Regional Library in Langley City. As well as a number of paperback novels, I bought two reference books. One is “Amateur Detectives: a writer’s guide to how private citizens solve criminal cases”. The other is “2008 Martin’s Annual Criminal Code – Canada Law Book”. The law book has some fascinating information and even though it is very dry reading, it does give the definitions of crimes and the range of sentencing for same. Both these books have lots of incredible background for writers of crime/mystery stories, if anyone is looking for that sort of knowledge. The book sale continues until October 11th.
That’s all the current news I have for this week. Hope you’re still writing and would love to see you and your Muse on the 16th. Happy Thanksgiving in the meantime.
Lisa
The past several meetings have not materialized, so it is a little difficult to send out a Review to keep members updated. Meetings were cancelled when main participants were away or had other reasons for not attending. However, I’m still hopeful that the group will continue and so I keep scheduling meetings anyhow. The next meeting is set for Thursday, October 16th at 7:00 p.m. at my place.
Margaret has had a short story accepted by the Poetry Institute of Canada for inclusion in an anthology. I’ve had one story accepted by them as well. They do not pay for submissions, but neither do we pay for entry in their “contest”. However, we are invited to purchase the anthology. Which, when you think of it, is no different than giving your writing to a non-paying newspaper or magazine and then buying that same issue that you are published in. Anything to say and prove we’re published, right?
Marilyn had an article (or story?) published in the September issue of Senior Newsmagazine. I haven’t seen it, but thanks to a tip from Carolann, I’m hoping Marilyn was able to get a copy of that issue for her own collection of tear sheets.
Saturday, I attended the used book sale at the Fraser Valley Regional Library in Langley City. As well as a number of paperback novels, I bought two reference books. One is “Amateur Detectives: a writer’s guide to how private citizens solve criminal cases”. The other is “2008 Martin’s Annual Criminal Code – Canada Law Book”. The law book has some fascinating information and even though it is very dry reading, it does give the definitions of crimes and the range of sentencing for same. Both these books have lots of incredible background for writers of crime/mystery stories, if anyone is looking for that sort of knowledge. The book sale continues until October 11th.
That’s all the current news I have for this week. Hope you’re still writing and would love to see you and your Muse on the 16th. Happy Thanksgiving in the meantime.
Lisa
Sunday, September 7, 2008
THE REVIEW
TO SWEAR OR NOT TO SWEAR?
Bob and Margaret faithfully came for a meeting Thursday night. They both had something they had written to read.
Margaret brought a copy of the September issue of Today’s Senior Newsmagazine, which had published a compilation of James Moffatt’s anecdotes about being a conductor with B.C. Electric. Jim was Margaret’s late husband. The piece was called “B.C. Tram Memories”.
Bob brought along a booklet entitled “Windows To Our Past” which was a small pictorial history of B.C. Interesting photos to look at.
Bob read about Hawken & Company. He told about the younger brother, Roy, who started as a delivery boy and told Bob one of his jobs each morning was to go to three places and get the day’s take for Sam Albert. Those were places of prostitution. The three Hawken brothers manufactured jewellery and did repair work when they had their own business.
Margaret read two chapters from the Peabody collection. Rev. Percy Teasdale invites Marie to Jasper’s 50th birthday party, but she declines. At the party, Jasper’s Aunt Hester and Uncle Hedley announce that Jasper is engaged to Marigold. Jasper is expecting a Jewish wedding ceremony, and Marigold is expecting an Anglican one. In the next chapter, Rev. Peacock listens as Marigold (who is his housekeeper) comes in late. He has to get up and light the morning fire as she sleeeps in. When she does get up, she flashes her engagement ring at him. But he thinks she’s going to marry Rev. Peabody. Then Peacock and Teasdale decide they have to verify who she is actually engaged to and they decide Peacock, dressed in disguise, will follow her when she leaves the house.
I read Chapter 11 from my novel, where Fiona meets Detective Verttersly, who is upset that his car, which he had parked on the roadway inside the complex, has gone missing. In this chapter I had him use the word “hell” three times. Bob insists no policeman would swear like that. And I think otherwise, especially since his car, owned by the police department, was impounded by Fiona. Does anyone else have any insights on this? To swear or not to swear?
You will be glad to know that Sonny, our website administrator, is on his way home to Kingston from Afghanistan for a two week leave. Their first child is due any day, so we are all hoping he will be there for the happy event, before he heads back to Afghanistan till his next leave in January.
Next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, September 18th at 7:00 p.m. Hope you can attend and bring a Muse, yours or anyone else’s. Any Muse will do.
Lisa
Bob and Margaret faithfully came for a meeting Thursday night. They both had something they had written to read.
Margaret brought a copy of the September issue of Today’s Senior Newsmagazine, which had published a compilation of James Moffatt’s anecdotes about being a conductor with B.C. Electric. Jim was Margaret’s late husband. The piece was called “B.C. Tram Memories”.
Bob brought along a booklet entitled “Windows To Our Past” which was a small pictorial history of B.C. Interesting photos to look at.
Bob read about Hawken & Company. He told about the younger brother, Roy, who started as a delivery boy and told Bob one of his jobs each morning was to go to three places and get the day’s take for Sam Albert. Those were places of prostitution. The three Hawken brothers manufactured jewellery and did repair work when they had their own business.
Margaret read two chapters from the Peabody collection. Rev. Percy Teasdale invites Marie to Jasper’s 50th birthday party, but she declines. At the party, Jasper’s Aunt Hester and Uncle Hedley announce that Jasper is engaged to Marigold. Jasper is expecting a Jewish wedding ceremony, and Marigold is expecting an Anglican one. In the next chapter, Rev. Peacock listens as Marigold (who is his housekeeper) comes in late. He has to get up and light the morning fire as she sleeeps in. When she does get up, she flashes her engagement ring at him. But he thinks she’s going to marry Rev. Peabody. Then Peacock and Teasdale decide they have to verify who she is actually engaged to and they decide Peacock, dressed in disguise, will follow her when she leaves the house.
I read Chapter 11 from my novel, where Fiona meets Detective Verttersly, who is upset that his car, which he had parked on the roadway inside the complex, has gone missing. In this chapter I had him use the word “hell” three times. Bob insists no policeman would swear like that. And I think otherwise, especially since his car, owned by the police department, was impounded by Fiona. Does anyone else have any insights on this? To swear or not to swear?
You will be glad to know that Sonny, our website administrator, is on his way home to Kingston from Afghanistan for a two week leave. Their first child is due any day, so we are all hoping he will be there for the happy event, before he heads back to Afghanistan till his next leave in January.
Next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, September 18th at 7:00 p.m. Hope you can attend and bring a Muse, yours or anyone else’s. Any Muse will do.
Lisa
Sunday, August 24, 2008
THE REVIEW
THE LEGEND
Thursday’s meeting was so much fun. Michael has his car back on the road, so he attended and brought his 15-month old son, Legend. He is such a cutie, but was a little apprehensive of strangers and stuck very close to his Daddy.
Bob read first about a family-run jewellery manufacturing business I’m not going to name because Bob said the only gossip he could come up with about them was that the grandson was an a--. And he couldn’t put that into his accounting of their business to liven it up.
Michael brought a short story collection which included one of his stories. The book was put together by friends of Jay, who was battling cancer. Michael’s story was “Off-Season at Jay Lake”, where the narrator is observing strange insects and creatures at Jay Lake. But when Michael started reading, Legend started competing with his own story-telling in a language we didn’t understand. The louder Michael talked, the louder Legend talked. Michael handed the story to me to finish reading, but that didn’t stop Legend. He is definitely going to upstage all of us. He’s already a storyteller.
Margaret read about Marigold enjoying dinner with Jasper at the hotel after the play. Even though he’s almost 50, Jasper is now contemplating marriage in order to inherit from his Uncle. He invites Marigold to his 50th birthday party at his Aunt and Uncle’s. In the meantime, Marie has contacted Percy Teasdale, a relative of Rev. Peabody, and he asks her to go to the party with him.
Marilyn wrote a story on Mario’s ongoing life saga which she read to family and friends when they were recently celebrating Mario’s 75h birthday. Hope she comes sometime to a meeting and reads it to us.
Margaret had been looking for a box for her manuscript, and I picked one up for her at Packaging Depot (on 200th by Logan) for $1.67. If anybody needs one, that’s where to look. And Margaret has a Laser cartridge free for the asking. It is compatible with Samsung ML-4500. Also, this is the week to re-stock your home office. Just about everything is on sale for students right now, so load up on paper, pens, notebooks, dictionaries, etc. And then write, write, write!
Next meeting is here at my place on Thursday, September 4th at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then.
Lisa
Thursday’s meeting was so much fun. Michael has his car back on the road, so he attended and brought his 15-month old son, Legend. He is such a cutie, but was a little apprehensive of strangers and stuck very close to his Daddy.
Bob read first about a family-run jewellery manufacturing business I’m not going to name because Bob said the only gossip he could come up with about them was that the grandson was an a--. And he couldn’t put that into his accounting of their business to liven it up.
Michael brought a short story collection which included one of his stories. The book was put together by friends of Jay, who was battling cancer. Michael’s story was “Off-Season at Jay Lake”, where the narrator is observing strange insects and creatures at Jay Lake. But when Michael started reading, Legend started competing with his own story-telling in a language we didn’t understand. The louder Michael talked, the louder Legend talked. Michael handed the story to me to finish reading, but that didn’t stop Legend. He is definitely going to upstage all of us. He’s already a storyteller.
Margaret read about Marigold enjoying dinner with Jasper at the hotel after the play. Even though he’s almost 50, Jasper is now contemplating marriage in order to inherit from his Uncle. He invites Marigold to his 50th birthday party at his Aunt and Uncle’s. In the meantime, Marie has contacted Percy Teasdale, a relative of Rev. Peabody, and he asks her to go to the party with him.
Marilyn wrote a story on Mario’s ongoing life saga which she read to family and friends when they were recently celebrating Mario’s 75h birthday. Hope she comes sometime to a meeting and reads it to us.
Margaret had been looking for a box for her manuscript, and I picked one up for her at Packaging Depot (on 200th by Logan) for $1.67. If anybody needs one, that’s where to look. And Margaret has a Laser cartridge free for the asking. It is compatible with Samsung ML-4500. Also, this is the week to re-stock your home office. Just about everything is on sale for students right now, so load up on paper, pens, notebooks, dictionaries, etc. And then write, write, write!
Next meeting is here at my place on Thursday, September 4th at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then.
Lisa
Sunday, August 10, 2008
THE REVIEW
HISTORY LESSON
Bob and Margaret showed up faithfully Thursday night in spite of the heat wave. He brought a number of 3-ring binders he gave to me and Margaret, and some magazines I will send to some soldiers.
Margaret said she was writing an article about the Wigwam Inn at the north end of Indian Arm. Bob brought in a map to show her its location. Margaret and I both remembered visiting the Wigwam when it served as a tea room, a day trip by boat up the Arm. Bob remembered there being a bar in the basement, and a bartender who drank all the leftover dregs from visitors’ glasses. He said it was also a cat house in its timel. He thinks it is now owned by a yacht club.
Many thanks to Susan for all the lovely pictures she sent showing scenes from their holiday on the west coast of Newfoundland.
Ann spent some time in Gimli, Manitoba, connecting with family she had never met and learning more of her Icelandic heritage.
Margaret read first, “Marigold’s Date”. To thank her for the ride to the stag party, Rev. Peabody was taking Marigold to a play in London. She had to buy new clothes for this overnight trip with the man she hoped to marry. She bought traveling clothes, evening dress, and brand new undergarments. But then Peabody was asked to do a eulogy at a funeral, so he told Marigold he would meet her in London. She traveled alone, and he arrived late and then took her to a lowly restaurant for dinner instead of to the hotel dining room. They attended a risqué play about Adam and Eve, and Peabody said he couldn’t stay to continue watching, especially after Eve made a remark to Adam when he dropped his leaf that he had neither of his nethers. Then Marigold learns Peabody isn’t even staying at the same hotel as her. She’s affronted, but stays to watch the play. And then Jasper, who had sold her the new clothes, takes the empty seat beside her.
I read Chapters 9 and 10 from my novel, where Fiona meets with the Fire Chief and then has the Detective’s car towed off site, thinking it is an errant visitor parking in the roadway. And Cam is at home and tries coping with the family that is burned out of their Unit, and then a resident Fiona had just fined, as well as the Detective wanting to know where his car is.
After reading the submission information to the Poetry Institute’s creative writing contest that Margaret had forwarded, I submitted 3 entries. Deadline is August 11th, and today is the 10th.
Next meeting is here at my place on Thursday, August 21st, at 7:00 p.m. Hope your Muse will bring you along that evening.
Lisa
Bob and Margaret showed up faithfully Thursday night in spite of the heat wave. He brought a number of 3-ring binders he gave to me and Margaret, and some magazines I will send to some soldiers.
Margaret said she was writing an article about the Wigwam Inn at the north end of Indian Arm. Bob brought in a map to show her its location. Margaret and I both remembered visiting the Wigwam when it served as a tea room, a day trip by boat up the Arm. Bob remembered there being a bar in the basement, and a bartender who drank all the leftover dregs from visitors’ glasses. He said it was also a cat house in its timel. He thinks it is now owned by a yacht club.
Many thanks to Susan for all the lovely pictures she sent showing scenes from their holiday on the west coast of Newfoundland.
Ann spent some time in Gimli, Manitoba, connecting with family she had never met and learning more of her Icelandic heritage.
Margaret read first, “Marigold’s Date”. To thank her for the ride to the stag party, Rev. Peabody was taking Marigold to a play in London. She had to buy new clothes for this overnight trip with the man she hoped to marry. She bought traveling clothes, evening dress, and brand new undergarments. But then Peabody was asked to do a eulogy at a funeral, so he told Marigold he would meet her in London. She traveled alone, and he arrived late and then took her to a lowly restaurant for dinner instead of to the hotel dining room. They attended a risqué play about Adam and Eve, and Peabody said he couldn’t stay to continue watching, especially after Eve made a remark to Adam when he dropped his leaf that he had neither of his nethers. Then Marigold learns Peabody isn’t even staying at the same hotel as her. She’s affronted, but stays to watch the play. And then Jasper, who had sold her the new clothes, takes the empty seat beside her.
I read Chapters 9 and 10 from my novel, where Fiona meets with the Fire Chief and then has the Detective’s car towed off site, thinking it is an errant visitor parking in the roadway. And Cam is at home and tries coping with the family that is burned out of their Unit, and then a resident Fiona had just fined, as well as the Detective wanting to know where his car is.
After reading the submission information to the Poetry Institute’s creative writing contest that Margaret had forwarded, I submitted 3 entries. Deadline is August 11th, and today is the 10th.
Next meeting is here at my place on Thursday, August 21st, at 7:00 p.m. Hope your Muse will bring you along that evening.
Lisa
Sunday, July 20, 2008
THE RAM'S HEAD REVIEW
SUMMER AT LAST!
Hello fellow Rams. Gorgeous weather we’ve been having. Finally. The trip Bryon and I made to the Okanagan was a lot of fun. A daytrip to Vernon while up there saw us at an independent bookstore on the main drag. Interesting to see what interests the local population. The two largest sections were automotive and cooking. I asked to be directed to the section on writing, and it consisted mostly of dictionaries. The only book connected at all to the writing field was “Get Published” by Meg Schneider and Barbara Doyen published by Adams Media. Not quite finished reading it, but it has a lot of pertinent information on what to do after you’ve finished writing an article, short story, novel or non-fiction book.
Bob and Margaret joined me here on Thursday to appease The Muse. Bob still hasn’t done any writing but had brought a number of magazines for Margaret. However, I asked a favour of them: I asked to keep about five mags to forward to some of our soldiers in Afghanistan who never receive any mail at all. Two of the National Geographic issues have articles about issues in Afghanistan, so they are especially appropriate. Thanks Bob and Margaret.
Bob also brought a pile of piano sheet music to give to Margaret, who now wants to get her piano tuned. She hadn’t played at all since her husband passed away.
Margaret showed us an article from a 1939 Star Weekly (Toronto Star) that she had saved about the clans of Scotland. She also had a book she used for research, “Tartans And Highland Dress”. Then she read to us “The Reverend’s Kilt” from her Peabody collection. Peabody was going to a stag party for the innkeeper that was being held at the Duke of Marsh’s residence and he had to wear a kilt, which he was very reluctant to do. He went shopping and was told if he’s not a member of a clan, he should wear a Jacobite or Caledonian tartan, but Peabody thought them too colourful. When the tailor learned he was a Reverend, he showed Peabody the dull grey clergy tartan, and matching shorts to wear underneath. Peabody purchased the outfit and left in trepidation as he would have to ride his bicycle to the event.
Then Margaret read the next chapter, “Malcolm, Where’s Your Trousers?”. Peabody dressed in the clergy kilt and shorts, and left for the stag. He planned to walk and then catch a taxi. Marie saw him walking away, and he appeared to be dressed only in a hat and overcoat. She phoned Peasly, who tried phoning Peacock but got Marigold first. She listened to their conversation and decided to go searching for Peabody to rescue him. Meanwhile, Peacock phoned the police. But Marigold found Peabody and offered him a ride to the stag and they had a good laugh about the predicament, and foiling the police search.
The next chapter was “Rev. Peabody Reflects”. After the stag, he was home and remembered the Duke showing him some art he bought, “The Last Supper”, painted by Marie. He recalls the debacle of mistaken art that had become “The Last Slipper” instead. Peabody went to bed and Marie cleaned up after him. She found a slip of paper with Teasdale’s address.
I read Chapter 8 of my novel, which sees Cam at home the next morning after the fire. His Mom is out, the ringing doorbell gets him out of bed. It’s Detective Vettersly, looking for his Mom, and he leaves his card. Then Cam’s friend Miles shows up and the two boys discuss their Moms, their girlfriends, over breakfast, and we see the common circumstances in their lives that are part of their friendship. They then make plans for the rest of the day.
Gemma’s husband, Laszlo, is home recovering after his surgery. Lynette and her family are off to Europe next month for her son’s wedding. Marilyn is super busy with the ham radio and community policing activities she is involved in.
Many thanks to those who have volunteered to write or send parcels to Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan who have received no mail. It is appreciated by both me and Sonny. Caring about these people as individuals in a difficult situation does not automatically translate into an endorsement or promotion of war, only compassion for other human beings. Thanks for letting your heart take precedence.
Next meeting here at my place, Thursday, August 7th at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then, and Happy Writing in the meantime!
Lisa
Hello fellow Rams. Gorgeous weather we’ve been having. Finally. The trip Bryon and I made to the Okanagan was a lot of fun. A daytrip to Vernon while up there saw us at an independent bookstore on the main drag. Interesting to see what interests the local population. The two largest sections were automotive and cooking. I asked to be directed to the section on writing, and it consisted mostly of dictionaries. The only book connected at all to the writing field was “Get Published” by Meg Schneider and Barbara Doyen published by Adams Media. Not quite finished reading it, but it has a lot of pertinent information on what to do after you’ve finished writing an article, short story, novel or non-fiction book.
Bob and Margaret joined me here on Thursday to appease The Muse. Bob still hasn’t done any writing but had brought a number of magazines for Margaret. However, I asked a favour of them: I asked to keep about five mags to forward to some of our soldiers in Afghanistan who never receive any mail at all. Two of the National Geographic issues have articles about issues in Afghanistan, so they are especially appropriate. Thanks Bob and Margaret.
Bob also brought a pile of piano sheet music to give to Margaret, who now wants to get her piano tuned. She hadn’t played at all since her husband passed away.
Margaret showed us an article from a 1939 Star Weekly (Toronto Star) that she had saved about the clans of Scotland. She also had a book she used for research, “Tartans And Highland Dress”. Then she read to us “The Reverend’s Kilt” from her Peabody collection. Peabody was going to a stag party for the innkeeper that was being held at the Duke of Marsh’s residence and he had to wear a kilt, which he was very reluctant to do. He went shopping and was told if he’s not a member of a clan, he should wear a Jacobite or Caledonian tartan, but Peabody thought them too colourful. When the tailor learned he was a Reverend, he showed Peabody the dull grey clergy tartan, and matching shorts to wear underneath. Peabody purchased the outfit and left in trepidation as he would have to ride his bicycle to the event.
Then Margaret read the next chapter, “Malcolm, Where’s Your Trousers?”. Peabody dressed in the clergy kilt and shorts, and left for the stag. He planned to walk and then catch a taxi. Marie saw him walking away, and he appeared to be dressed only in a hat and overcoat. She phoned Peasly, who tried phoning Peacock but got Marigold first. She listened to their conversation and decided to go searching for Peabody to rescue him. Meanwhile, Peacock phoned the police. But Marigold found Peabody and offered him a ride to the stag and they had a good laugh about the predicament, and foiling the police search.
The next chapter was “Rev. Peabody Reflects”. After the stag, he was home and remembered the Duke showing him some art he bought, “The Last Supper”, painted by Marie. He recalls the debacle of mistaken art that had become “The Last Slipper” instead. Peabody went to bed and Marie cleaned up after him. She found a slip of paper with Teasdale’s address.
I read Chapter 8 of my novel, which sees Cam at home the next morning after the fire. His Mom is out, the ringing doorbell gets him out of bed. It’s Detective Vettersly, looking for his Mom, and he leaves his card. Then Cam’s friend Miles shows up and the two boys discuss their Moms, their girlfriends, over breakfast, and we see the common circumstances in their lives that are part of their friendship. They then make plans for the rest of the day.
Gemma’s husband, Laszlo, is home recovering after his surgery. Lynette and her family are off to Europe next month for her son’s wedding. Marilyn is super busy with the ham radio and community policing activities she is involved in.
Many thanks to those who have volunteered to write or send parcels to Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan who have received no mail. It is appreciated by both me and Sonny. Caring about these people as individuals in a difficult situation does not automatically translate into an endorsement or promotion of war, only compassion for other human beings. Thanks for letting your heart take precedence.
Next meeting here at my place, Thursday, August 7th at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then, and Happy Writing in the meantime!
Lisa
Sunday, June 22, 2008
THE RAM'S HEAD REVIEW
JUNE BLOSSOMS
Four of us gathered Thursday to honour The Muse. Gemma was finally able to join us again, and it was so wonderful to see her.
Bob had a wedding picture of his son Rob who tied the knot in Paris. The picture was included with a wedding invitation for their second wedding here at home. Interesting. Would that be called double jeopardy?
Bob said he also sent a long piece of snail mail to Sonny. If anyone else wants to send an ordinary piece of mail to Sonny while he’s in Afghanistan, let me know and I will give you the mailing address. Letters can go postage free, but postage on parcels has to be paid as far as Belleville, Ontario, from where the military picks up mail and forwards it.
Gemma brought me a gift of a salt crystal candle. She said it’s supposed to aid concentration and to use it by my computer when I’m writing. Will give it a try.
Gemma read first, a short story about her younger sister, Zsuzsa. As a youngster in post-war Hungary, she was caught charging candy to her mother’s grocery account at the store. As a young woman, she married a Frenchman. Faced with an empty nest years later, she applied to go to a nursing school when her older husband was retiring. When asked why she wanted to go into nursing, she said it was to save her marriage. Gemma plans to send this piece to Seniors Newsmagazine, so if anyone sees it, be sure to tell me.
Margaret read of Peabody getting a phone call from Marigold, who was so upset he was going to marry Marie. With both women wanting him, he was having nightmares and headaches. He gave the solitaire ring back to the innkeeper, who had entrusted Peabody with its safekeeping for him. The innkeeper told Peabody not to bother telling either Marigold or Marie about his intentions. But then Peabody started to think that maybe he should take a wife after all.
First I read the winner of the writing prompt in Writers’ Digest, a short story called “All Star Dinner”. It was a sad commentary on a mother’s grief after the loss of her son. Then I read chapters 6 and 7 from my novel. Margaret said she finds it interesting and she always wants to know what’s going to happen next. And Bob said it reads much better now than the first time around.
Next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, July 3rd at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then.
Lisa
Four of us gathered Thursday to honour The Muse. Gemma was finally able to join us again, and it was so wonderful to see her.
Bob had a wedding picture of his son Rob who tied the knot in Paris. The picture was included with a wedding invitation for their second wedding here at home. Interesting. Would that be called double jeopardy?
Bob said he also sent a long piece of snail mail to Sonny. If anyone else wants to send an ordinary piece of mail to Sonny while he’s in Afghanistan, let me know and I will give you the mailing address. Letters can go postage free, but postage on parcels has to be paid as far as Belleville, Ontario, from where the military picks up mail and forwards it.
Gemma brought me a gift of a salt crystal candle. She said it’s supposed to aid concentration and to use it by my computer when I’m writing. Will give it a try.
Gemma read first, a short story about her younger sister, Zsuzsa. As a youngster in post-war Hungary, she was caught charging candy to her mother’s grocery account at the store. As a young woman, she married a Frenchman. Faced with an empty nest years later, she applied to go to a nursing school when her older husband was retiring. When asked why she wanted to go into nursing, she said it was to save her marriage. Gemma plans to send this piece to Seniors Newsmagazine, so if anyone sees it, be sure to tell me.
Margaret read of Peabody getting a phone call from Marigold, who was so upset he was going to marry Marie. With both women wanting him, he was having nightmares and headaches. He gave the solitaire ring back to the innkeeper, who had entrusted Peabody with its safekeeping for him. The innkeeper told Peabody not to bother telling either Marigold or Marie about his intentions. But then Peabody started to think that maybe he should take a wife after all.
First I read the winner of the writing prompt in Writers’ Digest, a short story called “All Star Dinner”. It was a sad commentary on a mother’s grief after the loss of her son. Then I read chapters 6 and 7 from my novel. Margaret said she finds it interesting and she always wants to know what’s going to happen next. And Bob said it reads much better now than the first time around.
Next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, July 3rd at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then.
Lisa
Saturday, June 7, 2008
THE RAM'S HEAD REVIEW
SOGGY JUNE
The cold and wet weather notwithstanding, Bob and Margaret joined me Thursday night for a meeting. Bob brought a book for Gemma, “Lonesome”, which is a first person dog story set in B.C. But Gemma has to come to a meeting to get it. I’ll have to write a story about blackmail sometime.
Bob brought along his story “Going Downtown”, which he had asked Susan to critique. She had made some changes, maybe not understanding he had written this piece first person from his experience as a five year old. We suggested Bob do some re-writing and clarify for the reader right at the beginning that the narrator is a five year old male child, so that following observations make sense to the reader.
Margaret had another Peabody story, “Mr. Lamb’s Still”, and she had drawings of a still to show us. As she read, we heard of Peasly, Peacock and Mr. Lamb planning a party to celebrate Peabody’s engagement to Marie, but without actually mentioning the engagement. The party took place at Mr. Lamb’s home, with the overproof spirits from his still as the main refreshment. Peabody enjoyed the party and all the congratulations, even when he won a dart game, but still didn’t know everybody thought he was going to marry Marie.
I read chapters 3 – 5 in my novel, mostly dealing with the scene of the second fire in the strata complex that Fiona manages, and giving background information. Bob said it reads much better than he had remembered it and Margaret did feel the suspense as I was reading. So there you go, it probably works better as a whole story than just single chapter selections. Continuity may be important in reading a novel.
I sent an update on The Ram’s Head listing to Lois Peterson. LPWordsolutions gives a listing of writing groups in the Lower Mainland, as does the website for The Federation of B.C. Writers, the latter updated by Sylvia Taylor. Lois and Sylvia are both creative writing teachers based in Surrey.
Next meeting here at my place Thursday, June 19th at 7:00 p.m. Please join us as we would love to see you.
Lisa
The cold and wet weather notwithstanding, Bob and Margaret joined me Thursday night for a meeting. Bob brought a book for Gemma, “Lonesome”, which is a first person dog story set in B.C. But Gemma has to come to a meeting to get it. I’ll have to write a story about blackmail sometime.
Bob brought along his story “Going Downtown”, which he had asked Susan to critique. She had made some changes, maybe not understanding he had written this piece first person from his experience as a five year old. We suggested Bob do some re-writing and clarify for the reader right at the beginning that the narrator is a five year old male child, so that following observations make sense to the reader.
Margaret had another Peabody story, “Mr. Lamb’s Still”, and she had drawings of a still to show us. As she read, we heard of Peasly, Peacock and Mr. Lamb planning a party to celebrate Peabody’s engagement to Marie, but without actually mentioning the engagement. The party took place at Mr. Lamb’s home, with the overproof spirits from his still as the main refreshment. Peabody enjoyed the party and all the congratulations, even when he won a dart game, but still didn’t know everybody thought he was going to marry Marie.
I read chapters 3 – 5 in my novel, mostly dealing with the scene of the second fire in the strata complex that Fiona manages, and giving background information. Bob said it reads much better than he had remembered it and Margaret did feel the suspense as I was reading. So there you go, it probably works better as a whole story than just single chapter selections. Continuity may be important in reading a novel.
I sent an update on The Ram’s Head listing to Lois Peterson. LPWordsolutions gives a listing of writing groups in the Lower Mainland, as does the website for The Federation of B.C. Writers, the latter updated by Sylvia Taylor. Lois and Sylvia are both creative writing teachers based in Surrey.
Next meeting here at my place Thursday, June 19th at 7:00 p.m. Please join us as we would love to see you.
Lisa
Monday, May 19, 2008
THE RAM'S HEAD REVIEW
PEACAN PIE
Margaret showed up with peacan pie as a treat for Bob. Bob brought magazines for Margaret, and I gave her some books to take for the library at her building.
Bob read first, a little more of Trayling and Waters. In the 1970’s they were asked to make a mold and cast a brass replica of a very large gold nugget. It was gold plated and put on display at Eatons, near their front door. Somebody smashed the showcase and stole it.
Margaret read “Rev. Peabody Decides”. He considers Peasly’s request for a lifetime commitment, while Marie arrives and refills his hot water bottle. He knows he can’t do without her so goes to see Peasly who admits he had been going to propose to Marie. Peabody had thought he wanted Marie as a housekeeper, so says he wants to keep her for himself. So of course, Peasly then tells Peacock that Peabody’s going to propose to Marie.
I started re-reading my novel, chapters 1 and 2, showing the scene of the second fire in the townhouse complex where Fiona works, and she and her son live. I’ve been re-writing, adding descriptions, trying to up the suspense by making the cause of the first two fires similar, and just cleaning up the prose generally. It’s a lot of work.
There is an extra Thursday in May, but the next meeting is still Thursday, June 5th at 7:00 p.m. here at my place. Hope you can make it whether you’ve written anything new or not. Writers still need to meet with other writers. Always happy to see you.
Lisa
Margaret showed up with peacan pie as a treat for Bob. Bob brought magazines for Margaret, and I gave her some books to take for the library at her building.
Bob read first, a little more of Trayling and Waters. In the 1970’s they were asked to make a mold and cast a brass replica of a very large gold nugget. It was gold plated and put on display at Eatons, near their front door. Somebody smashed the showcase and stole it.
Margaret read “Rev. Peabody Decides”. He considers Peasly’s request for a lifetime commitment, while Marie arrives and refills his hot water bottle. He knows he can’t do without her so goes to see Peasly who admits he had been going to propose to Marie. Peabody had thought he wanted Marie as a housekeeper, so says he wants to keep her for himself. So of course, Peasly then tells Peacock that Peabody’s going to propose to Marie.
I started re-reading my novel, chapters 1 and 2, showing the scene of the second fire in the townhouse complex where Fiona works, and she and her son live. I’ve been re-writing, adding descriptions, trying to up the suspense by making the cause of the first two fires similar, and just cleaning up the prose generally. It’s a lot of work.
There is an extra Thursday in May, but the next meeting is still Thursday, June 5th at 7:00 p.m. here at my place. Hope you can make it whether you’ve written anything new or not. Writers still need to meet with other writers. Always happy to see you.
Lisa
Sunday, May 4, 2008
THE REVIEW
DEDICATED WRITERS
Bob and Margaret and I were the three who met here on Thursday, all with something to read. But I should tell everyone, that even if you haven’t written anything to read, you are still very welcome to attend, as those who have written still need your support, too.
Still writing about Trayling and Waters, Bob read that he had perhaps downplayed their importance. They were, in fact a very large and successful operation for many years, and also very good to their employees. Their operation had a magnificent view of the North Shore mountains, but Bob did notice they replaced clear windows reinforced with bars, with opaque windows that employees could no longer see out of as they worked. When their business ended, their models and molds sold for higher than usual prices to other businesses.
I read next, a piece I now call “Mom’s Memorial, May 1, 2008”. It was to acknowledge my Mother’s love and the loss I feel since she passed away in March. Since Mothers’ Day is next Sunday, I will also post this piece on our Blog, right after this Review. And if anyone else has something about Mothers’ Day that has not yet been posted to our website, and would like to see it on our Blog, then by all means, send it to me and I will put it up. Just make sure it has a title and your byline on it.
Margaret was able to read 2 chapters from her Peabody section. The first was “Solitaire” and tells of Marie, Rev. Peabody’s housekeeper, finding a solitaire engagement ring in his desk drawer and she assumes he’s going to propose to her. She then tells Marigold, who is Rev. Peasly’s housekeeper. But Marigold has assumed Peabody was going to propose to her, and is consequently very upset and tells Peasly and Peacock, who then hatch a plan for Peasly to propose to Marie himself to make sure the truth comes out. The next chapter sees Peasly fortifying himself with alcohol to go to Peabody’s to propose to Marie. But she is out and so he tells Peabody that he had come to ask for a lifelong commitment, neglecting to say he meant from Marie. Peabody misunderstands and tells Peasly he’ll think about his proposal.
Margaret had a number of drawings to show us. She usually prints them out on envelopes, but was having trouble doing so with her new copier. The pictures were done in stages, with trees, buildings, and human figures drawn separately and then added on wherever she wanted them to form a whole picture.
I mentioned two books on writing that I had purchased and recommend. One is “How I Write” by Janet Evanovich. It is a fun-to-read overview of steps in creating and publishing a novel, by a bestselling author. The other book is “Writer’s Guide To Character Traits” by Linda N. Edelstein, PH.D. This one is published by Writers’ Digest and the author is a practicing psychologist and uses over 30 years of experience to explain and give very useful lists of character traits seen in people, relationships and in group situations. The book is written specifically as a resource for creative writers. Just amazing information.
Also of interest to local writers, there is a huge used book sale happening every Saturday in May in otherwise empty shop space on the SE corner of the old Safeway Mall in Cloverdale. It is just across the lane from the Legion’s north side. Books are $1.00 each, 6 for $5.00, or $20.00 for a box full. Bryon and I spent two hours there yesterday and came away with a box full. These are mostly books now discarded from public libraries. Awesome.
Next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, May 19th at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then, even if you haven’t written anything.
Lisa
MOM'S MEMORIAL, May 1, 2008
The icy fingers of winter still clench the land, holding back the luscious green of spring. And frosty breath still blows through the walls, shivering my aching bones. It is the first of May, but summer’s balm is still just a dream.
Mothers’ Day approaches and my heart is heavy. This will be the first year since being a youngster that I cannot give my Mother a card or a gift. She has left this plane of physical existence, and I can no longer touch her or see her smile. It has been forty-three days since she left, but I am only now starting to feel the loss. The hours spent on the paper detritus of death staved off my grief. Now there is nothing to hold it at bay and I must face the loss of the one person I know loved me unconditionally. And it is here that my tears begin.
She loved all children, not in an overly sentimental fashion, but by her calm and quiet acceptance of each child exactly as is. She told me once that it was in caring for children that one could keep going in spite of any difficulty. Striving to meet their needs always put your own in balance. And the all consuming necessities of children could always obliterate one’s selfish preoccupations with self. It’s hard to bemoan the loss of frivolous pursuits when a child needs feeding or any kind of caring. Mom taught me to care for the child first, and everything else would work out, too, in its own good time.
And she taught me there is nothing wrong with putting family first, that they are the ones who need you the most. She was always there for her own, even though I often sought outside the circle of her love. But each time I realized that coming home to where I knew I was loved was always the best way for me. In return, I hope I was able to give that same love to my own children.
She suffered greatly in the end, and I do not know why. Or maybe I do. Maybe I wasn’t ready to let her go. When I did pray for her release from pain more fervently than I did for her to continue living, she left very quickly. I wasn’t there at the end, but seeing the peace on her countenance soon after, I know she’s gone to a better place.
So, Mom. I cannot give you a physical card or gift this year, but I can give you all the love in my heart and tell you it will always live on, because of your selfless devotion to me. That is my Mothers’ Day gift to you.
Love forever,
Lisa
Bob and Margaret and I were the three who met here on Thursday, all with something to read. But I should tell everyone, that even if you haven’t written anything to read, you are still very welcome to attend, as those who have written still need your support, too.
Still writing about Trayling and Waters, Bob read that he had perhaps downplayed their importance. They were, in fact a very large and successful operation for many years, and also very good to their employees. Their operation had a magnificent view of the North Shore mountains, but Bob did notice they replaced clear windows reinforced with bars, with opaque windows that employees could no longer see out of as they worked. When their business ended, their models and molds sold for higher than usual prices to other businesses.
I read next, a piece I now call “Mom’s Memorial, May 1, 2008”. It was to acknowledge my Mother’s love and the loss I feel since she passed away in March. Since Mothers’ Day is next Sunday, I will also post this piece on our Blog, right after this Review. And if anyone else has something about Mothers’ Day that has not yet been posted to our website, and would like to see it on our Blog, then by all means, send it to me and I will put it up. Just make sure it has a title and your byline on it.
Margaret was able to read 2 chapters from her Peabody section. The first was “Solitaire” and tells of Marie, Rev. Peabody’s housekeeper, finding a solitaire engagement ring in his desk drawer and she assumes he’s going to propose to her. She then tells Marigold, who is Rev. Peasly’s housekeeper. But Marigold has assumed Peabody was going to propose to her, and is consequently very upset and tells Peasly and Peacock, who then hatch a plan for Peasly to propose to Marie himself to make sure the truth comes out. The next chapter sees Peasly fortifying himself with alcohol to go to Peabody’s to propose to Marie. But she is out and so he tells Peabody that he had come to ask for a lifelong commitment, neglecting to say he meant from Marie. Peabody misunderstands and tells Peasly he’ll think about his proposal.
Margaret had a number of drawings to show us. She usually prints them out on envelopes, but was having trouble doing so with her new copier. The pictures were done in stages, with trees, buildings, and human figures drawn separately and then added on wherever she wanted them to form a whole picture.
I mentioned two books on writing that I had purchased and recommend. One is “How I Write” by Janet Evanovich. It is a fun-to-read overview of steps in creating and publishing a novel, by a bestselling author. The other book is “Writer’s Guide To Character Traits” by Linda N. Edelstein, PH.D. This one is published by Writers’ Digest and the author is a practicing psychologist and uses over 30 years of experience to explain and give very useful lists of character traits seen in people, relationships and in group situations. The book is written specifically as a resource for creative writers. Just amazing information.
Also of interest to local writers, there is a huge used book sale happening every Saturday in May in otherwise empty shop space on the SE corner of the old Safeway Mall in Cloverdale. It is just across the lane from the Legion’s north side. Books are $1.00 each, 6 for $5.00, or $20.00 for a box full. Bryon and I spent two hours there yesterday and came away with a box full. These are mostly books now discarded from public libraries. Awesome.
Next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, May 19th at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then, even if you haven’t written anything.
Lisa
MOM'S MEMORIAL, May 1, 2008
The icy fingers of winter still clench the land, holding back the luscious green of spring. And frosty breath still blows through the walls, shivering my aching bones. It is the first of May, but summer’s balm is still just a dream.
Mothers’ Day approaches and my heart is heavy. This will be the first year since being a youngster that I cannot give my Mother a card or a gift. She has left this plane of physical existence, and I can no longer touch her or see her smile. It has been forty-three days since she left, but I am only now starting to feel the loss. The hours spent on the paper detritus of death staved off my grief. Now there is nothing to hold it at bay and I must face the loss of the one person I know loved me unconditionally. And it is here that my tears begin.
She loved all children, not in an overly sentimental fashion, but by her calm and quiet acceptance of each child exactly as is. She told me once that it was in caring for children that one could keep going in spite of any difficulty. Striving to meet their needs always put your own in balance. And the all consuming necessities of children could always obliterate one’s selfish preoccupations with self. It’s hard to bemoan the loss of frivolous pursuits when a child needs feeding or any kind of caring. Mom taught me to care for the child first, and everything else would work out, too, in its own good time.
And she taught me there is nothing wrong with putting family first, that they are the ones who need you the most. She was always there for her own, even though I often sought outside the circle of her love. But each time I realized that coming home to where I knew I was loved was always the best way for me. In return, I hope I was able to give that same love to my own children.
She suffered greatly in the end, and I do not know why. Or maybe I do. Maybe I wasn’t ready to let her go. When I did pray for her release from pain more fervently than I did for her to continue living, she left very quickly. I wasn’t there at the end, but seeing the peace on her countenance soon after, I know she’s gone to a better place.
So, Mom. I cannot give you a physical card or gift this year, but I can give you all the love in my heart and tell you it will always live on, because of your selfless devotion to me. That is my Mothers’ Day gift to you.
Love forever,
Lisa
Monday, April 21, 2008
THE RAM'S HEAD REVIEW
SPRING QUARTET
Four of us met Thursday night, glad it’s spring and glad to be with other writers. I chatted first with Margaret, trying to explain to her how to achieve double line-spacing in Wordpad, since it can’t be formatted to do so automatically. She says there are days she would far rather just deal with a typewriter.
Bob read more about Trailing & Waters, who were the largest jewellery manufacturers in Western Canada, and Jacoby Bros.’ biggest competitors. It was common to offer credit to customers, but T & W were quite generous in their terms of credit. In the 1970s they became members of the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and were then required to have a fully qualified gemologist on staff. In 1982, they were required to supply an audited financial statement to their bank, which was not supplied. Their loan was called and the business shut down for a month. T & W reopened, and later manufactured a number of pieces that were sold at Expo ’86. It was common for their employees to bank their overtime and unfortunately they were unable to collect it when the company went into receivership in 1987.
Margaret read “Outfits For Joey” from her Peabody collection. Rev. Peacock washed Joey’s dress and asked Marigold to sew more outfits for him, but she adamantly refused. So he took Joey in his wet dress to shop for new attire. Joey started swearing again. They first looked at baby clothes that were still far too big, and then went to a shop that sold doll clothes. At the latter establishment, a little girl made friends with Joey and dressed him up. Joey loved the attention and insisted on more than one outfit. Peacock gave in to keep Joey from swearing.
In April’s edition of Seniors’ Newsmagazine was an article of Margaret’s entitled “Yesterday’s R.V.”. It was a write-up that had been published in England years before about a motorhome from 1923 that was quite lavishly equipped for the time. It was large enough for a family of four plus a cook/maid and chauffeur. The butler slept in the van that traveled with them to carry all their supplies. This was in Europe. It sold for 7000 British pounds and only went 15 kms/hr.
I read two short pieces. One was written several days after the death of my mother, telling of how our roles reversed in the years I spent caring for her. The other piece is a comment about being devalued in society as I age. I haven’t quite finished the second piece yet.
Marilyn also read two pieces. The first was “Pillar Of Strength” which gives personification to a marble pillar that is surrounded by ivy. The second piece was “Illuminations”, telling about words bursting into her conscious awareness and the frantic need to write them down. And then she talks of finding words in her pen, and what incredible loss she felt when her favourite pen ran out of ink.
Amanda’s house has been sold and they will soon be moving, but she wasn’t sure where yet. Elaine’s father passed away, this morning I think, and she has headed to Thunder Bay to be with her mother and other family at this sad time.
Next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, May 1st at 7:00 p.m. Love to see you then.
Lisa
Four of us met Thursday night, glad it’s spring and glad to be with other writers. I chatted first with Margaret, trying to explain to her how to achieve double line-spacing in Wordpad, since it can’t be formatted to do so automatically. She says there are days she would far rather just deal with a typewriter.
Bob read more about Trailing & Waters, who were the largest jewellery manufacturers in Western Canada, and Jacoby Bros.’ biggest competitors. It was common to offer credit to customers, but T & W were quite generous in their terms of credit. In the 1970s they became members of the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and were then required to have a fully qualified gemologist on staff. In 1982, they were required to supply an audited financial statement to their bank, which was not supplied. Their loan was called and the business shut down for a month. T & W reopened, and later manufactured a number of pieces that were sold at Expo ’86. It was common for their employees to bank their overtime and unfortunately they were unable to collect it when the company went into receivership in 1987.
Margaret read “Outfits For Joey” from her Peabody collection. Rev. Peacock washed Joey’s dress and asked Marigold to sew more outfits for him, but she adamantly refused. So he took Joey in his wet dress to shop for new attire. Joey started swearing again. They first looked at baby clothes that were still far too big, and then went to a shop that sold doll clothes. At the latter establishment, a little girl made friends with Joey and dressed him up. Joey loved the attention and insisted on more than one outfit. Peacock gave in to keep Joey from swearing.
In April’s edition of Seniors’ Newsmagazine was an article of Margaret’s entitled “Yesterday’s R.V.”. It was a write-up that had been published in England years before about a motorhome from 1923 that was quite lavishly equipped for the time. It was large enough for a family of four plus a cook/maid and chauffeur. The butler slept in the van that traveled with them to carry all their supplies. This was in Europe. It sold for 7000 British pounds and only went 15 kms/hr.
I read two short pieces. One was written several days after the death of my mother, telling of how our roles reversed in the years I spent caring for her. The other piece is a comment about being devalued in society as I age. I haven’t quite finished the second piece yet.
Marilyn also read two pieces. The first was “Pillar Of Strength” which gives personification to a marble pillar that is surrounded by ivy. The second piece was “Illuminations”, telling about words bursting into her conscious awareness and the frantic need to write them down. And then she talks of finding words in her pen, and what incredible loss she felt when her favourite pen ran out of ink.
Amanda’s house has been sold and they will soon be moving, but she wasn’t sure where yet. Elaine’s father passed away, this morning I think, and she has headed to Thunder Bay to be with her mother and other family at this sad time.
Next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, May 1st at 7:00 p.m. Love to see you then.
Lisa
Sunday, April 6, 2008
THE RAM'S HEAD REVIEW
REUNION
Thursday’s meeting was a wonderful get-together for four of us. Margaret, Marilyn and Bob joined me after a month’s hiatus due to my Mother’s passing. My sincere thanks to all for your expressions of sympathy during that time.
Marilyn read two of her poems for us. The first one was SKINS, a listing of all the different types of skins found in nature and daily life. The second poem was NORTH WORDS, enumerating words like Inuit and kayak, that are particular to the Canadian north. Interesting concepts in both these poems.
Bob read more about T & W, (Trailing and Waters) who had been his competitor in the manufacture of jewellery. In the 1960s, the making of charms became very popular, and T & W had some unique pieces. Jack Waters, still a heavy drinker, died in November of 1970 at the age of 53. The company seemed to be overstaffed and Bob thought it was because many of their procedures for labeling and packaging were outdated and time consuming. Drinking continued to be heavy at T & W, and some salespeople who called on them preferred to do so in the morning while others who liked to party did so in late afternoon.
Margaret read another story from the Peabody collection, JOEY SEES DR. NOAH. Rev. Peacock takes Joey, the parrot, to see the Doctor because of his penchant for cursing. Peacock had dressed Joey in a dress and bonnet as he thought the Doctor was allergic to feathers. When they arrived, the parrot was given a stool to perch on, but poor Peacock was made to stand. Dr. Noah told Peacock to replace Joey’s vocabulary with words that were more acceptable, but Peacock already read the bible to him every night. The doctor wanted to know why the bird was in a dress, and Peacock said it was to visit him. The doctor then said Peacock needed help more than the bird. Peacock later learned the Doctor was allergic to ferrets, not feathers. But Joey now refrained from cursing any time he was wearing the dress.
I read a short, first person piece called THE PERFECT SIZE. It is a funny account about my acquisition of a used dress form for sewing and Honey’s attempts at making a stand for it. And I know it was funny because everybody listening had to remove their glasses and wipe tears from their eyes at the end. I have since submitted it to THREADS magazine for consideration. Writing something short gave me a nice sense of completion that takes so very long to get when writing a novel.
Marilyn read again, a piece called END OF THE LINE, written by her friend Mike Malone. It is written in two points of view, father and son, and tells of their inner thoughts and feelings when the son admits, at 36, that he is transgendered. The father is a widower who has one daughter living far away, and though he dearly loves his son, he also sees this will be the end of the line for his family. Meanwhile, the son misses his sister’s female companionship and sees his own decision ending a time of pretending to be someone he is not. Pretty deep emotional issues at play for both these individuals and you can’t help but pray they get past the feeling of deep sadness this piece evokes.
Margaret brought me a book called SOURCES. It’s a resource of names and contact info for organizations, companies and agencies. Quoting the book they are “Canada’s finest directory of human contacts. When you need analysis, commentary and information from people in the know, this is the place.” If anybody would like to borrow it, it’s here.
I had a number of books to give away and all but one was fiction. Margaret took most of them for the library in her apartment building.
Ann wrote her piece on floods and mailed it off. Robin was going to attend our meeting but came down with a cold. Last Sunday Bryon and I ran into Nathaniel and Tracy at Princess Auto. (Writers hang out at strange places.) They looked great, and love the sunshine they get living in Victoria’s harbour. Their boat is now moored in front of The Empress Hotel. And Nathaniel says it’s been difficult getting a regular writers’ group over there. People seem to be kind of cliquey. One group was full of drama, and while he was away on a road trip, it just disintegrated. But he’s trying to start another.
Marilyn said she would like to host a meeting sometime, but no definite date has been set for that yet. So unless you hear otherwise, the next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, April 17th at 7:00 p.m. Love to see you then, with or without your Muse.
Lisa
Thursday’s meeting was a wonderful get-together for four of us. Margaret, Marilyn and Bob joined me after a month’s hiatus due to my Mother’s passing. My sincere thanks to all for your expressions of sympathy during that time.
Marilyn read two of her poems for us. The first one was SKINS, a listing of all the different types of skins found in nature and daily life. The second poem was NORTH WORDS, enumerating words like Inuit and kayak, that are particular to the Canadian north. Interesting concepts in both these poems.
Bob read more about T & W, (Trailing and Waters) who had been his competitor in the manufacture of jewellery. In the 1960s, the making of charms became very popular, and T & W had some unique pieces. Jack Waters, still a heavy drinker, died in November of 1970 at the age of 53. The company seemed to be overstaffed and Bob thought it was because many of their procedures for labeling and packaging were outdated and time consuming. Drinking continued to be heavy at T & W, and some salespeople who called on them preferred to do so in the morning while others who liked to party did so in late afternoon.
Margaret read another story from the Peabody collection, JOEY SEES DR. NOAH. Rev. Peacock takes Joey, the parrot, to see the Doctor because of his penchant for cursing. Peacock had dressed Joey in a dress and bonnet as he thought the Doctor was allergic to feathers. When they arrived, the parrot was given a stool to perch on, but poor Peacock was made to stand. Dr. Noah told Peacock to replace Joey’s vocabulary with words that were more acceptable, but Peacock already read the bible to him every night. The doctor wanted to know why the bird was in a dress, and Peacock said it was to visit him. The doctor then said Peacock needed help more than the bird. Peacock later learned the Doctor was allergic to ferrets, not feathers. But Joey now refrained from cursing any time he was wearing the dress.
I read a short, first person piece called THE PERFECT SIZE. It is a funny account about my acquisition of a used dress form for sewing and Honey’s attempts at making a stand for it. And I know it was funny because everybody listening had to remove their glasses and wipe tears from their eyes at the end. I have since submitted it to THREADS magazine for consideration. Writing something short gave me a nice sense of completion that takes so very long to get when writing a novel.
Marilyn read again, a piece called END OF THE LINE, written by her friend Mike Malone. It is written in two points of view, father and son, and tells of their inner thoughts and feelings when the son admits, at 36, that he is transgendered. The father is a widower who has one daughter living far away, and though he dearly loves his son, he also sees this will be the end of the line for his family. Meanwhile, the son misses his sister’s female companionship and sees his own decision ending a time of pretending to be someone he is not. Pretty deep emotional issues at play for both these individuals and you can’t help but pray they get past the feeling of deep sadness this piece evokes.
Margaret brought me a book called SOURCES. It’s a resource of names and contact info for organizations, companies and agencies. Quoting the book they are “Canada’s finest directory of human contacts. When you need analysis, commentary and information from people in the know, this is the place.” If anybody would like to borrow it, it’s here.
I had a number of books to give away and all but one was fiction. Margaret took most of them for the library in her apartment building.
Ann wrote her piece on floods and mailed it off. Robin was going to attend our meeting but came down with a cold. Last Sunday Bryon and I ran into Nathaniel and Tracy at Princess Auto. (Writers hang out at strange places.) They looked great, and love the sunshine they get living in Victoria’s harbour. Their boat is now moored in front of The Empress Hotel. And Nathaniel says it’s been difficult getting a regular writers’ group over there. People seem to be kind of cliquey. One group was full of drama, and while he was away on a road trip, it just disintegrated. But he’s trying to start another.
Marilyn said she would like to host a meeting sometime, but no definite date has been set for that yet. So unless you hear otherwise, the next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, April 17th at 7:00 p.m. Love to see you then, with or without your Muse.
Lisa
Sunday, March 9, 2008
THE REVIEW
ANXIOUS FOR SPRING
Bob and Margaret joined me Thursday for a meeting. We are all hoping for a warmer Spring to start happening soon. Maybe the time change will help. At least it will be lighter longer in the evenings for those of us who don’t like driving in the dark.
Bob read more about Trailing and Waters, the manufacturers who were their main competitor in the jewellery business. We learned they seemed to be heavy drinkers and could be seen going out and returning to their premises with a brown paper bag every day.
Margaret showed us a drawing she made of the dog, Barker, who turned out to be a spaniel. The chapter she read was about Barker going to see a pet psychiatrist for excessive barking. The good Doctor blamed Rev. Peasly for the problem because of the name he’d given the dog. But the dog quit barking after having a good chew on the leg of the Doctor’s Chippendale chair.
I had a letter from John Ireland that I read. He and his wife are now back in New Zealand, enjoying their summer weather. They are at Napier, on the east coast of the North Island. John is working at rewriting “Brown Girls” to see if a friend’s publisher might be interested in it, as well as hoping to get hired by the community newspaper. He says a paperback costs $25.00 there. And he says hello to all the Rammers.
I read two versions of my one-page synopsis, first draft and rewrite. I had some good suggestions from Nathaniel and also did research online. But every time I read it I still want to tweek it here and there. Gave it to my husband to read, and he said it moved and conveyed a story line with lots of action, so I guess that’s good, coming from somebody who never reads fiction? However, he did take exception to my starting a sentence with the word “But”, as it is a conjunction and the PEng. in him believes in correct grammar. I ignored him on that comment.
Nathaniel seems to be busy working on his boat and doing repairs on others. Last two entries I read on their blog were about boat repairs. I told him he should be writing a manual on boat repairs. He could probably make a fortune at it.
Amanda is working on formatting her Robot poem and another story for submissions. Last I heard from Carolann was that she and her husband were trying to move from Walnut Grove to Surrey. I haven’t heard from anyone else lately. Any updates out there on writing endeavors you’d like to send me?
Next meeting here at my place on Thursday, March 20th at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see some more of you then, even if you haven’t written anything. Communion of writers is always important. Good luck with your writing.
Lisa
Bob and Margaret joined me Thursday for a meeting. We are all hoping for a warmer Spring to start happening soon. Maybe the time change will help. At least it will be lighter longer in the evenings for those of us who don’t like driving in the dark.
Bob read more about Trailing and Waters, the manufacturers who were their main competitor in the jewellery business. We learned they seemed to be heavy drinkers and could be seen going out and returning to their premises with a brown paper bag every day.
Margaret showed us a drawing she made of the dog, Barker, who turned out to be a spaniel. The chapter she read was about Barker going to see a pet psychiatrist for excessive barking. The good Doctor blamed Rev. Peasly for the problem because of the name he’d given the dog. But the dog quit barking after having a good chew on the leg of the Doctor’s Chippendale chair.
I had a letter from John Ireland that I read. He and his wife are now back in New Zealand, enjoying their summer weather. They are at Napier, on the east coast of the North Island. John is working at rewriting “Brown Girls” to see if a friend’s publisher might be interested in it, as well as hoping to get hired by the community newspaper. He says a paperback costs $25.00 there. And he says hello to all the Rammers.
I read two versions of my one-page synopsis, first draft and rewrite. I had some good suggestions from Nathaniel and also did research online. But every time I read it I still want to tweek it here and there. Gave it to my husband to read, and he said it moved and conveyed a story line with lots of action, so I guess that’s good, coming from somebody who never reads fiction? However, he did take exception to my starting a sentence with the word “But”, as it is a conjunction and the PEng. in him believes in correct grammar. I ignored him on that comment.
Nathaniel seems to be busy working on his boat and doing repairs on others. Last two entries I read on their blog were about boat repairs. I told him he should be writing a manual on boat repairs. He could probably make a fortune at it.
Amanda is working on formatting her Robot poem and another story for submissions. Last I heard from Carolann was that she and her husband were trying to move from Walnut Grove to Surrey. I haven’t heard from anyone else lately. Any updates out there on writing endeavors you’d like to send me?
Next meeting here at my place on Thursday, March 20th at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see some more of you then, even if you haven’t written anything. Communion of writers is always important. Good luck with your writing.
Lisa
Sunday, February 24, 2008
THE REVIEW
GOING GREEN
Hello Dear Fellow Rams. There were only three of us here Thursday night and we made a decision to “Go Green” and reduce our carbon footprint, in accordance with the goals of our Provincial Government. Meetings will now be just twice a month, on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays. Same place and same time. Next meeting will be Thursday, March 6th at 7:00 p.m.
Bob read from his history of the jewellery business about Trailing and Waters. At one time their payday was Saturday morning, and the boss would offer employees a drink and ask if they wanted to play cards. And he often won back the money he had just paid them.
Margaret read from the Peabody collection. Marie tells Peasly and Peacock that the button had been found in Peobody’s pocket, and they accept her apology for having them treat the bird and the dog with laxatives, after which the bird took up swearing again. Peabody arrives and apologizes, too, and they all end up having a drink together.
I read Ann’s “Peacemakers”, which she had emailed me. It’s about a future genetically selective society in which fat people are preferred as they are considered more peaceful, something wanted after nuclear destruction. But the twist is their leader is secretly slim and fit, and wears a fat suit in public. Really funny.
I am currently looking at writing a synopsis of my novel for future attempts to have it published. Am still gathering information on how to do this. By what I see from looking at markets, everybody wants one in a different length (one page, two page, chapter by chapter). So that’s what I’m working on.
Enjoy all that gorgeous sunshine out there and I hope the extra dose of Vitamin D inspires all in their writing. Again, next meeting here at my place, Thursday, March 6th at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then.
Lisa
Hello Dear Fellow Rams. There were only three of us here Thursday night and we made a decision to “Go Green” and reduce our carbon footprint, in accordance with the goals of our Provincial Government. Meetings will now be just twice a month, on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays. Same place and same time. Next meeting will be Thursday, March 6th at 7:00 p.m.
Bob read from his history of the jewellery business about Trailing and Waters. At one time their payday was Saturday morning, and the boss would offer employees a drink and ask if they wanted to play cards. And he often won back the money he had just paid them.
Margaret read from the Peabody collection. Marie tells Peasly and Peacock that the button had been found in Peobody’s pocket, and they accept her apology for having them treat the bird and the dog with laxatives, after which the bird took up swearing again. Peabody arrives and apologizes, too, and they all end up having a drink together.
I read Ann’s “Peacemakers”, which she had emailed me. It’s about a future genetically selective society in which fat people are preferred as they are considered more peaceful, something wanted after nuclear destruction. But the twist is their leader is secretly slim and fit, and wears a fat suit in public. Really funny.
I am currently looking at writing a synopsis of my novel for future attempts to have it published. Am still gathering information on how to do this. By what I see from looking at markets, everybody wants one in a different length (one page, two page, chapter by chapter). So that’s what I’m working on.
Enjoy all that gorgeous sunshine out there and I hope the extra dose of Vitamin D inspires all in their writing. Again, next meeting here at my place, Thursday, March 6th at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then.
Lisa
Thursday, February 14, 2008
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
Here’s to my friends who answered the call
And met at The Ram’s Head, one and all
Writers, editors, poets, too
Such joy in knowing all of you.
My life was blessed when we came to meet
And brought our words to share and read
I’ve known for years, only a writer understands
The wrestle to express
Through pain and tears
All that we see and comprehend
Writing down in verse or line
Explaining life and love
In runes of time
To leave some proof that here we are
Who gather close from near and far
In praise of writing from the heart.
Convened together, we are a troupe
Here’s to The Ram’s Head Writers’ Group!
Lisa A. Hatton ©
And met at The Ram’s Head, one and all
Writers, editors, poets, too
Such joy in knowing all of you.
My life was blessed when we came to meet
And brought our words to share and read
I’ve known for years, only a writer understands
The wrestle to express
Through pain and tears
All that we see and comprehend
Writing down in verse or line
Explaining life and love
In runes of time
To leave some proof that here we are
Who gather close from near and far
In praise of writing from the heart.
Convened together, we are a troupe
Here’s to The Ram’s Head Writers’ Group!
Lisa A. Hatton ©
Sunday, February 10, 2008
THE REVIEW
END OF WINTER?
After another week that had another dump of snow that made travel treacherous, there were four of us who did get together Thursday night. Bob and Carolann were both wearing red for the Chinese New Year. I was the one who had forgotten all about that directive I had handed out last week. Shame on me.
Bob brought an article from the Vancouver Sun he had cut out that was written by our long distance member, John Ireland. It was in the Travel section, entitled “An Urban Gypsy’s Travel Log”. We assume it first appeared in The Calgary Herald, where John said he was working. Nice to know he’s still out there somewhere.
All three other members at the meeting brought me a copy of Today’s Senior Newsmagazine so I could read Gemma’s poem “My Valentine Gift” that was in their February issue. It’s about Gemma in a rush to get home with Valentine treats for her dogs.
I read first, the final chapter in my novel, “Fire”. It is a scene showing Fiona at her office contemplating all that has happened over the past four days. Tanner arrives and readers are left knowing they will have an ongoing relationship. Mystery has been solved, arsonist and arsonist/murderer caught, and romance kindled. Now I guess I have to start a rewrite.
Margaret read of Peasly and Peacock being very unhappy and disgusted while looking for the brass button in excrement of the bird and dog. Meanwhile, Peabody finds the button in the pocket of his cardigan. When he tells Marie, she slams the door in his face. He then catches the coffin train to the cemetery, eventually finding Laura Bell’s grave where he leaves the button. But as he leaves the cemetery, a bird flies off with the button.
Carolann read a poem called “Winter”. It was inspired by Elaine’s poem about the angel of winter. But in Carolann’s, winter is a male angel, and she is telling him to be gone. A sentiment we can all share at this time of year, I’m sure. She said she had a Valentine poem she’ll read this week, that was written last year at this time with the beginning that was started here at a meeting by a group of us, but we couldn’t finish it. So we had challenged others to write their own version, and some did just that and the results are posted on our website. Carolann wroter her version, but hadn’t done anything with it. So now we’ll get to hear it.
Next meeting here at my place, Thursday, February 14th at 7:00 p.m., Valentine’s Day. So does your Muse love Chocolate? Mine just dreams about it. Hope to see you Thursday.
Lisa
After another week that had another dump of snow that made travel treacherous, there were four of us who did get together Thursday night. Bob and Carolann were both wearing red for the Chinese New Year. I was the one who had forgotten all about that directive I had handed out last week. Shame on me.
Bob brought an article from the Vancouver Sun he had cut out that was written by our long distance member, John Ireland. It was in the Travel section, entitled “An Urban Gypsy’s Travel Log”. We assume it first appeared in The Calgary Herald, where John said he was working. Nice to know he’s still out there somewhere.
All three other members at the meeting brought me a copy of Today’s Senior Newsmagazine so I could read Gemma’s poem “My Valentine Gift” that was in their February issue. It’s about Gemma in a rush to get home with Valentine treats for her dogs.
I read first, the final chapter in my novel, “Fire”. It is a scene showing Fiona at her office contemplating all that has happened over the past four days. Tanner arrives and readers are left knowing they will have an ongoing relationship. Mystery has been solved, arsonist and arsonist/murderer caught, and romance kindled. Now I guess I have to start a rewrite.
Margaret read of Peasly and Peacock being very unhappy and disgusted while looking for the brass button in excrement of the bird and dog. Meanwhile, Peabody finds the button in the pocket of his cardigan. When he tells Marie, she slams the door in his face. He then catches the coffin train to the cemetery, eventually finding Laura Bell’s grave where he leaves the button. But as he leaves the cemetery, a bird flies off with the button.
Carolann read a poem called “Winter”. It was inspired by Elaine’s poem about the angel of winter. But in Carolann’s, winter is a male angel, and she is telling him to be gone. A sentiment we can all share at this time of year, I’m sure. She said she had a Valentine poem she’ll read this week, that was written last year at this time with the beginning that was started here at a meeting by a group of us, but we couldn’t finish it. So we had challenged others to write their own version, and some did just that and the results are posted on our website. Carolann wroter her version, but hadn’t done anything with it. So now we’ll get to hear it.
Next meeting here at my place, Thursday, February 14th at 7:00 p.m., Valentine’s Day. So does your Muse love Chocolate? Mine just dreams about it. Hope to see you Thursday.
Lisa
Sunday, February 3, 2008
THE REVIEW
WEATHER BLOCK
Only three stalwart writers made it to the meeting Thursday night. Bob and Margaret attended for the whole two hours, and Lynette showed up briefly to say hello and she dropped off some books. It was good to see her smiling face again. She says she thinks about us often, but just has too much on the go at the present time to attend. Elaine stayed home due to ice rain that was falling in her neck of the woods, and I think Carolann didn’t want to drive that night either. Amanda emailed that she was going to visit her mother.
Bob didn’t have anything to read, but told us about spending many hours watching a documentary about Dachau, a Nazi extermination camp during WWII.
Margaret read her next Peabody chapter. Marie goes to visit the gypsy/clairvoyant who lives in rather a posh residence. She wants to know where the brass button is. Claire, the gypsy, is well dressed and bejeweled as she reads from her crystal ball. She tells Marie the button is in an enclosure, and that Marie will receive a marriage proposal. Marie is excited as she harbours a love for Rev. Peabody. Marie then visits Peasly and Peacock to ask them to give the dog and the bird each a laxative.
I read Chapter 50 in my novel. This sees Cam trying to get information about Lucy or to visit her, to no avail. Because she is a victim of violence, she is prohibited from any visitors but her father. An ambulance arrives with Lucy’s brother Rick badly injured from crashing his truck when police were pursuing him. The cop who arrives with Rick is able to give Cam some information on Lucy. Later Miles and Tanner show up, and Tanner offers to take Cam in to see Lucy. Just one Chapter left to write.
Sure hope the weather warms up and stops being a threat to travel. And also hope winter weather hasn’t stopped anyone from writing. Next meeting here at my place, Thursday, February 7th, at 7:00 p.m. That is the Chinese New Year, and it is the year of The Rat. Come to the meeting wearing red to scare away evil spirits and bad fortune. If you want a new beginning, wear all new clothes head to toe. Hope to see you Thursday. KUNG HEI FAT CHOI!
Lisa
Only three stalwart writers made it to the meeting Thursday night. Bob and Margaret attended for the whole two hours, and Lynette showed up briefly to say hello and she dropped off some books. It was good to see her smiling face again. She says she thinks about us often, but just has too much on the go at the present time to attend. Elaine stayed home due to ice rain that was falling in her neck of the woods, and I think Carolann didn’t want to drive that night either. Amanda emailed that she was going to visit her mother.
Bob didn’t have anything to read, but told us about spending many hours watching a documentary about Dachau, a Nazi extermination camp during WWII.
Margaret read her next Peabody chapter. Marie goes to visit the gypsy/clairvoyant who lives in rather a posh residence. She wants to know where the brass button is. Claire, the gypsy, is well dressed and bejeweled as she reads from her crystal ball. She tells Marie the button is in an enclosure, and that Marie will receive a marriage proposal. Marie is excited as she harbours a love for Rev. Peabody. Marie then visits Peasly and Peacock to ask them to give the dog and the bird each a laxative.
I read Chapter 50 in my novel. This sees Cam trying to get information about Lucy or to visit her, to no avail. Because she is a victim of violence, she is prohibited from any visitors but her father. An ambulance arrives with Lucy’s brother Rick badly injured from crashing his truck when police were pursuing him. The cop who arrives with Rick is able to give Cam some information on Lucy. Later Miles and Tanner show up, and Tanner offers to take Cam in to see Lucy. Just one Chapter left to write.
Sure hope the weather warms up and stops being a threat to travel. And also hope winter weather hasn’t stopped anyone from writing. Next meeting here at my place, Thursday, February 7th, at 7:00 p.m. That is the Chinese New Year, and it is the year of The Rat. Come to the meeting wearing red to scare away evil spirits and bad fortune. If you want a new beginning, wear all new clothes head to toe. Hope to see you Thursday. KUNG HEI FAT CHOI!
Lisa
Sunday, January 27, 2008
THE REVIEW
WEEK OF THE FULL MOON
It was not a good week for some. Charlie Thompson had surgery for a new heart valve, but is recovering. Amanda was sick with an infection. And Ellie is without a driver’s licence at present. Best wishes from The Ram to all our members.
At our meeting Thursday night, I showed the other four who were present a recent issue of Woman’s World magazine that had a full 2 page article on Whistler. This is an American magazine, so I was surprised to see a Canadian destination in their travel section.
I read first, Chapter 49 of my novel. This is starting to wind things up and had all main characters together, tying up some loose ends and explaining some red herrings that had been placed in earlier chapters. Just 2 more chapters to go. I also read an article I had clipped from the Vancouver Sun, about Marjory Harris, a centenarian who has just published her 5th book. But she didn’t start writing till she was 90. Now that she’s losing her sight, she says she’ll dictate her next book into a tape recorder. No excuse for any of the rest of us now.
Elaine read next, an introspective poem about winter called “Mibahiah’s Song”. The name of this character refers to the angel of winter, and the poem ruminates on the quandary of how the seeming harshness of winter can also be beautiful and still bring with it the promise of spring because of this angel.
Margaret read her next Peabody chapter, “The Button Vanishes”. Peabody is getting ready to go to the cemetery, but then can’t find the brass button. He screams for Marie as he’s down on his hands and knees looking for it. She comes down in her nightdress and uses a term of endearment when asking what’s bothering him. She asks if Joey or Barker might have eaten it. Then she vacuums but still no button. She decides to pray for its return, but will also seek the help of a clairvoyant.
Carolann had written a children’s story, “The Toy Party”, which she read. A little girl goes to sleep, and while she’s sleeping her toys come out to play. It would be an enchanting story for children to hear.
Next meeting here at my place Thursday, January 31st at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then.
Lisa
It was not a good week for some. Charlie Thompson had surgery for a new heart valve, but is recovering. Amanda was sick with an infection. And Ellie is without a driver’s licence at present. Best wishes from The Ram to all our members.
At our meeting Thursday night, I showed the other four who were present a recent issue of Woman’s World magazine that had a full 2 page article on Whistler. This is an American magazine, so I was surprised to see a Canadian destination in their travel section.
I read first, Chapter 49 of my novel. This is starting to wind things up and had all main characters together, tying up some loose ends and explaining some red herrings that had been placed in earlier chapters. Just 2 more chapters to go. I also read an article I had clipped from the Vancouver Sun, about Marjory Harris, a centenarian who has just published her 5th book. But she didn’t start writing till she was 90. Now that she’s losing her sight, she says she’ll dictate her next book into a tape recorder. No excuse for any of the rest of us now.
Elaine read next, an introspective poem about winter called “Mibahiah’s Song”. The name of this character refers to the angel of winter, and the poem ruminates on the quandary of how the seeming harshness of winter can also be beautiful and still bring with it the promise of spring because of this angel.
Margaret read her next Peabody chapter, “The Button Vanishes”. Peabody is getting ready to go to the cemetery, but then can’t find the brass button. He screams for Marie as he’s down on his hands and knees looking for it. She comes down in her nightdress and uses a term of endearment when asking what’s bothering him. She asks if Joey or Barker might have eaten it. Then she vacuums but still no button. She decides to pray for its return, but will also seek the help of a clairvoyant.
Carolann had written a children’s story, “The Toy Party”, which she read. A little girl goes to sleep, and while she’s sleeping her toys come out to play. It would be an enchanting story for children to hear.
Next meeting here at my place Thursday, January 31st at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then.
Lisa
Sunday, January 20, 2008
THE REVIEW
RENEWAL
Sonny says if I’m going to post The Review on the blog site, then I have to start using more creative titles, preferably expressing some theme from each meeting. So, please help me with “theme-atics” each week because I really do find it easy to stay in the same old rut. Could really use some of John’s expertise with headlines here.
Thursday’s meeting was fantastic, with eight of us all eager to praise the Muse.
Bob read an article by Susan’s husband Chris, that appeared in the Canadian Geographic about the Trans Canada Highway ending at a dump in Newfoundland. Then he read more of his jewellery business history, telling about Flewwelling who started a factory in 1912 on West Hastings. One of their employees liked to hide a bottle of his favourite libation in the toilet tank so he could take a swig or two at regular intervals.
Margaret Florczak showed up after many, many months and I mistook her for someone else. I felt like such a dunce. My sincere apologies. Anyhow, Margaret is still taking English courses at SFU and had served on the editing board of their student journal. So, as both a writer and editor, she wrote a fascinating article called “Everything I Didn’t Want To Learn About Rejection . . .” She told of different types of rejection letters that writers receive, and also about the many different reasons for editors not accepting pieces of writing. We especially liked her skillful handling of both points of view.
Robin also attended on Thursday and brought a whimsical piece of prose called “Pendulum To Pizza”. He first spoke of Galileo and the pendulum of the clock, and then of a possible descendent in the Wild West, who learned to bake cakes while imprisoned and then later returned to Italy to bake pizza, in a leaning tower, no less.
Carolann read us her 32nd poem, called “Another Year”. It was in honour of her husband’s recent birthday after a year of ill health and by-pass surgery and recuperation.
Margaret Moffat read more of the Peabody saga. He is telling Peacock and Peasly about the button he bought from the gypsies. And he also tells them he wants to search for Laura Bell’s grave. He plans to take the coffin train from Necropolis Stn. To Brookwood Cemetery in Surrey, England, which was the world’s largest cemetery back then in 1935. Margaret also brought drawings she had made of the three Reverends. Amazing talent.
Ellie read some more of the girl who is betrothed, against her will, to Alvin. She bathes, and then dresses in beautiful clothes, aided by a maid who doesn’t speak to her. She is escorted to a dining room where Alvin awaits in the company of a young man. He introduces her to the young man, who is his nephew, to the nephew’s mother, and to a tall man in a hooded cloak. The latter is the Mage Solan, who has mesmerizing blue eyes.
Amanda had three items to read. The first piece was used on a card she gave to a friend who had just given birth to her fourth son. Entitled “Another Son”, it chronicles many things mothers of growing boys contend with and then asks her to treasure them as too soon the boys grow up and leave home. Her second reading included keen observations of mostly young people in a coffee shop, and these were very astute perceptions. And the third reading was a sensual and sensuous piece telling of a woman drinking wine at a party and her encounter with and then lingering desire for a man she meets.
I think it was Margaret Florczack who mentioned a contest for a short, short stories at the Writers’ Union of Canada. I don’t have any more information than that, but you can probably find more by looking up their website.
Next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, January 24th at 7:00 p.m. Love to see you then. Happy writing to you all in the meantime.
Lisa
Sonny says if I’m going to post The Review on the blog site, then I have to start using more creative titles, preferably expressing some theme from each meeting. So, please help me with “theme-atics” each week because I really do find it easy to stay in the same old rut. Could really use some of John’s expertise with headlines here.
Thursday’s meeting was fantastic, with eight of us all eager to praise the Muse.
Bob read an article by Susan’s husband Chris, that appeared in the Canadian Geographic about the Trans Canada Highway ending at a dump in Newfoundland. Then he read more of his jewellery business history, telling about Flewwelling who started a factory in 1912 on West Hastings. One of their employees liked to hide a bottle of his favourite libation in the toilet tank so he could take a swig or two at regular intervals.
Margaret Florczak showed up after many, many months and I mistook her for someone else. I felt like such a dunce. My sincere apologies. Anyhow, Margaret is still taking English courses at SFU and had served on the editing board of their student journal. So, as both a writer and editor, she wrote a fascinating article called “Everything I Didn’t Want To Learn About Rejection . . .” She told of different types of rejection letters that writers receive, and also about the many different reasons for editors not accepting pieces of writing. We especially liked her skillful handling of both points of view.
Robin also attended on Thursday and brought a whimsical piece of prose called “Pendulum To Pizza”. He first spoke of Galileo and the pendulum of the clock, and then of a possible descendent in the Wild West, who learned to bake cakes while imprisoned and then later returned to Italy to bake pizza, in a leaning tower, no less.
Carolann read us her 32nd poem, called “Another Year”. It was in honour of her husband’s recent birthday after a year of ill health and by-pass surgery and recuperation.
Margaret Moffat read more of the Peabody saga. He is telling Peacock and Peasly about the button he bought from the gypsies. And he also tells them he wants to search for Laura Bell’s grave. He plans to take the coffin train from Necropolis Stn. To Brookwood Cemetery in Surrey, England, which was the world’s largest cemetery back then in 1935. Margaret also brought drawings she had made of the three Reverends. Amazing talent.
Ellie read some more of the girl who is betrothed, against her will, to Alvin. She bathes, and then dresses in beautiful clothes, aided by a maid who doesn’t speak to her. She is escorted to a dining room where Alvin awaits in the company of a young man. He introduces her to the young man, who is his nephew, to the nephew’s mother, and to a tall man in a hooded cloak. The latter is the Mage Solan, who has mesmerizing blue eyes.
Amanda had three items to read. The first piece was used on a card she gave to a friend who had just given birth to her fourth son. Entitled “Another Son”, it chronicles many things mothers of growing boys contend with and then asks her to treasure them as too soon the boys grow up and leave home. Her second reading included keen observations of mostly young people in a coffee shop, and these were very astute perceptions. And the third reading was a sensual and sensuous piece telling of a woman drinking wine at a party and her encounter with and then lingering desire for a man she meets.
I think it was Margaret Florczack who mentioned a contest for a short, short stories at the Writers’ Union of Canada. I don’t have any more information than that, but you can probably find more by looking up their website.
Next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, January 24th at 7:00 p.m. Love to see you then. Happy writing to you all in the meantime.
Lisa
Saturday, January 12, 2008
THE RAM'S HEAD REVIEW
THE RAM’S HEAD REVIEW
January 12, 2008
Another year has dawned and empty pages beckon the Muse from its hibernation within us. Days are also getting longer and it’s time to rouse and let it be known “WE ARE WRITERS!”.
There were four of us here to read at Thursday’s meeting.
Bob started with a memoir, “Going Downtown” written in first person as the child who lived in Vancouver and experienced travelling downtown with his stepmother to have lunch, visit his Dad’s shop, visit the old Woodwards with its huge grocery floor and decorated windows, and to visit the PNE and watch the parade. Interesting depiction of another era in the life of Vancouver.
Margaret has started another on-going Peabody saga she calls “The Gypsy and The Button”. Peabody is alone one evening and visited by a Gypsy woman and her son who are selling odds and ends from a basket. The Rev. Peabody buys a brass button that looks familiar to him and phones his brother Mathew about it. (To be continued…)
Carolann read a piece that started as prose and ended in poetic form that she will read at the funeral of a neighbour who just recently passed away. Touching.
I read two letters. The first was from Nathaniel, in response to my query I had sent to an email address I found on a blog where he wrote about his writing and trying to find a publisher. We had no way of contacting him after he and his family left their home in Abbotsford last spring so it was wonderful to finally make contact again.
The second letter had been forward to me by Suan from a friend of theirs’ who decried the difficulty of finding a publisher for his two completed novels. In his research, he did learn that publishers of novels prefer writers have experience writing and getting short stories published first, before they will even think of putting into print a novel they have written. So he turned his hand to writing short stories, and much prefers them, and has had one accepted for publication by a Vancouver magazine. So there you have the other side of the story.
I then read Chapter 48 in my novel, which has Cam trying to staunch the flow of blood from Lucy’s stab wound, waiting for ambulance attendants to arrive. Their arrival coincides with that of two police officers who then start asking him questions in a threatening manner, but he is rescued when Tanner and his Mom arrive. He shows Tanner the journal Rick kept detailing the arson fires.
Carolann brought January’s issue of Senior Newsmagazine, in which she had one prose piece and one poem published. Also, two Christmas stories by Gemma were in the same issue. Our girls were on a roll!
Ellie was unable to attend as her son from Toronto was in town and she was having dinner with three of her four sons, always a special treat for her. Elaine emailed that it had been her birthday the day before and her children were coming to celebrate on Thursday, so she was unable to attend.
Next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, January 17th at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then whether you have writing of your own to read or not. It’s still important for us to support the ones who have written something, right? May communion with your Muse be long and deep, blessing or curse, as you so choose.
Lisa
January 12, 2008
Another year has dawned and empty pages beckon the Muse from its hibernation within us. Days are also getting longer and it’s time to rouse and let it be known “WE ARE WRITERS!”.
There were four of us here to read at Thursday’s meeting.
Bob started with a memoir, “Going Downtown” written in first person as the child who lived in Vancouver and experienced travelling downtown with his stepmother to have lunch, visit his Dad’s shop, visit the old Woodwards with its huge grocery floor and decorated windows, and to visit the PNE and watch the parade. Interesting depiction of another era in the life of Vancouver.
Margaret has started another on-going Peabody saga she calls “The Gypsy and The Button”. Peabody is alone one evening and visited by a Gypsy woman and her son who are selling odds and ends from a basket. The Rev. Peabody buys a brass button that looks familiar to him and phones his brother Mathew about it. (To be continued…)
Carolann read a piece that started as prose and ended in poetic form that she will read at the funeral of a neighbour who just recently passed away. Touching.
I read two letters. The first was from Nathaniel, in response to my query I had sent to an email address I found on a blog where he wrote about his writing and trying to find a publisher. We had no way of contacting him after he and his family left their home in Abbotsford last spring so it was wonderful to finally make contact again.
The second letter had been forward to me by Suan from a friend of theirs’ who decried the difficulty of finding a publisher for his two completed novels. In his research, he did learn that publishers of novels prefer writers have experience writing and getting short stories published first, before they will even think of putting into print a novel they have written. So he turned his hand to writing short stories, and much prefers them, and has had one accepted for publication by a Vancouver magazine. So there you have the other side of the story.
I then read Chapter 48 in my novel, which has Cam trying to staunch the flow of blood from Lucy’s stab wound, waiting for ambulance attendants to arrive. Their arrival coincides with that of two police officers who then start asking him questions in a threatening manner, but he is rescued when Tanner and his Mom arrive. He shows Tanner the journal Rick kept detailing the arson fires.
Carolann brought January’s issue of Senior Newsmagazine, in which she had one prose piece and one poem published. Also, two Christmas stories by Gemma were in the same issue. Our girls were on a roll!
Ellie was unable to attend as her son from Toronto was in town and she was having dinner with three of her four sons, always a special treat for her. Elaine emailed that it had been her birthday the day before and her children were coming to celebrate on Thursday, so she was unable to attend.
Next meeting will be here at my place on Thursday, January 17th at 7:00 p.m. Hope to see you then whether you have writing of your own to read or not. It’s still important for us to support the ones who have written something, right? May communion with your Muse be long and deep, blessing or curse, as you so choose.
Lisa
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