Sunday, November 21, 2010

Warning: Random and Sappy Blog Post Ahead

Hi, Writer Friends! As the week of Thanksgiving is now upon us, I am reflecting on all I am thankful for. And one of the things I have grown to love are my blog friends: you! Although I started my blog in June, I didn't really make an attempt to connect with other writers until about six weeks ago. In that short span of time, I've met so many awesome people. People that understand my hopes and my fears, my goals and the drive it takes to achieve them. I've met people that are at the beginning of the journey like me, polishing manuscripts and querying agents. Others already have agents and publishers and some even have books on the market. It's been so amazing becoming part of this community all around the world, and for that, I am very grateful. And just this weekend I surpassed 50 followers! Thank you everyone for stopping by my humble blog and reading what I have to say.

Now on to the random part. I saw HP and the Deathly Hallows today. Loved it! Without spoiling it for anyone who hasn't seen it, let me just say that I thought it was the most emotionally powerful and beautifully shot film of them all. The scenery and details were gorgeous. I am glad they split it into two films, as I will be very sad the day I see the last movie.

In editing news, I have truly discovered the effect of tipping one little domino. I started by deciding that I needed to change the beginning of my book, and had decided to bring forward one of my favorite scenes from much later in the book. This scene had been the introduction of my most favorite character, or at least the one that speaks most clearly to me. Bringing him into the beginning meant needing more scenes with him throughout the book. It also meant eliminating the scene I originally had at the beginning, which I had meant to just move to another place, but it just didn't fit. So, in essence, what at first seemed a big change in the first 100 pages of the book has now changed the entire book drastically. I think I'll be working on it for quite a few weeks. But, I am loving the new direction it's gone and developing some characters that were minor before. So, I have to say with true honesty that I am thankful the agent who requested the partial rejected me and gave me feedback that urged me to make changes I had been stewing about for quite some time.

So, as Turkey Day approaches (or in the case of vegetarians like me Tofurkey Day), what are you thankful for as a writer? Did you receive honest advice, or words of encouragement, or had a mentor that has helped you out?

I will probably not post again until Friday or Saturday, so everyone have a fantastic holiday with safe travels if you are leaving town.

12 comments:

  1. I enjoy making new friends with similar dreams. I look forward to seeing the new HP movie. And don't you secretly hope your novel will spark a bit like J K's did?

    Have a happy holiday. I'm off to do another blood run. Roland

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  2. I'm a vegetarian too!

    As a writer, I'm grateful for the community we have on the blogosphere. I'm also grateful for the support of my friends who cheer me on and keep me going.

    Happy Thanksgiving!

    Jai

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  3. I saw HP today, too - on an IMAX screen. It was soooo good! SOOOO Good. Loved it! I'm glad they split it into 2 parts as well. You just can't rush the last book....

    I'm also thankful for connections I've made through blogging and finding fellow writers. This is such a positive, supportive group. It's great!!

    You enjoy your Holiday, too! :)

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  4. I agree, this HP was one of the best done IMO. I wish they had all been done so well but at least we have 1 more to look forward to!

    Good luck on your revisions! It's nice to be pleased with the work you have to do on them and not hate it.

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  5. I can't wait to see HP! Maybe next week for me. I am thankful for all my new blogging friends!

    Have a great holiday!

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  6. forgot to mention you need to come claim an award!

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  7. I am so excited about HP7 now! I've read several people who have said it was the Best Yet. I plan to see it on Wednesday with my daughter. Can't wait!

    Also, that is great about you joining the writing community. I overhauled my blog and started getting out and meeting people in (late) June too. It's a super, supportive place to be on the blogosphere!

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  8. It’s always nice to meet another writer. I know what you mean. The blog-writer community has been wonderful. Enjoy your turkey day and Happy Thanksgiving.

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  9. Sounds like the changes you made to your novel are working for you. Great. Have a Happy Thanksgiving. I've joined a Thanksgiving Blogfest if you get back to the computer you might like to take a looksee..:)

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  10. Oh I agree, HP7 was very good. :)

    And, I too love my bloggy friends. Having other writers in your life is of great importance...but having LOTS of them is a delightful gift.

    Yeah, dealing with the ripple effect during revisions is both fun and hellish.

    Happy Thanksgiving!
    Love,
    Lola

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  11. What a delicious post. I think you hit the nail on the head regarding that agent's rejection: rejection can be a wonderful motivator and a terrific form of feedback. So glad you've enjoyed your time in the blogosphere, and so glad you've found it to be so rewarding.

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  12. Hi Alexia..loved your attitude towards rejection and that agent's feedback. Looks like your rewrite is going very well. I too am currently in that phase, my rewrites like yours are making me see few characters in a different light.

    Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and had a nice time with your family. Hugs.

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I love talking with friends new and old! What's on your mind?