Thursday night rant.

Every day I read about another reality star/actor ....writing a book. Just yesterday I read that SNOOKI (from Jersey Shore, if you aren't familiar) is now writing a book that is set to be published by Simon and Schuster.

This ticks me off. This proves that publishing houses are only interested in money and not in quality. How many actors have published children's books just because they felt like it? How many reality stars have gotten that long awaited book contract with just a phone call from their agent?

I'm sorry, but this begs the question-

WHAT ABOUT US??! What about ME? What about all the aspiring writers out there that go to conferences, join critique groups, read blogs, and buy copies of The Children's Writers and Illustator's Market? What about all those solidly GOOD writers out there that are struggling to break through a slow market? Doesn't this seem a little unfair?

I mean, I get it. Book sales. But, really? Snooki? Okay, I'm done.

You can now get back to your regularly scheduled program.

I'm BACK (sort of)

Man I've missed my blog. Man, I've missed writing. And man, have I missed you guys. I just got back from a week at the beach with my in-laws and parents (never, ever do that...trust me). Anyway, my in-laws are still in town and they will be until the 22nd, so I haven't been able to make it to any practice rooms or do any writing, which is killing me. Last night I had like 10 dreams and I kept thinking...oooo that would make a great book! And, upon reflection, I don't think they actually would- but I'm so desperate to write that I'm becoming crazy.

I'm about 40K into my story. My goal is to finish it by the end of the year. Which isn't as easy as it seems, considering after this visit, my sis-in-law and family come into town from Oct 12-21, then a friend of mine is here until the 25th, then my mother in law and her boyfriend are here from Oct. 29-Nov. 6. So, as you can see, it's hard for me to breathe between visits- much less write.

I am paranoid that because I've lost temporary contact with you guys that I'm somehow becoming a terrible writer again. Like, all I've learned is going down the crapper. Which is crazy, I know. But I can't help but think that.

Enjoy, and I'll be writing and practice-rooming soon!