Santa Loves Me!!!

This will be a very quick post but i am really excited to announce that Christmas Miracles really do happen! Santa got me a new MacBookPro for Christmas!!!! Complete with a brand new printer/copy machine, computer backpack, and teal computer cover! Providing me with plenty of "ink" for the next year (or years)! I can hardly wait to get home and start back up writing!!! I'm a Mac Girl now ;)

Creatively yours,
Kat

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas to you all! I hope everyone is having a great holiday season! I am currently visiting my family in Kansas! Heather flies in today just in time for Christmas, I am hoping the weather holds out. Then, in 2 days, Josh flies in to meet my family! Lots of excitement on this end, and hopefully a few snowflakes! Much love to everyone, more updates soon I hope! Sadly my computer has finally passed on to the techo-graveyard so I have limited internet computer/internet access. But hey, maybe it'll fix itself in true Christmas miracle fashion? No time to think about it now though! Stay warm!

Creatively yours,
Kat

Christmas Pictures :)

Here are a few of the Christmas pictures taken this year :) My best friend and I took some for our families and then Josh and I took some for our families! We knocked out a lot of Christmas presents in one day! ;) Plus it was a lot of fun to be on the beach for an entire day. These were taken on St. George Island! 23 days to Christmas!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

24 Days, 11 Hours, 20 Minutes (Not That I'm Counting)

The first flakes of snow recently fell in Emporia, Kansas according to my friend Melissa! As she gave me the news I walked outside in my swimsuit, with wet hair, and was wondering if it would get below 80 that night. It's my first winter living in Florida, and so far, it's a breeze! It's rather weird to be able to go outside without 10 layers and 3 coats; and I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss the snow a bit. But every time I begin to miss it, I walk outside to what feels like spring and everything is ok :) The last week has been getting a bit chillier, but just enough to make me realize that tomorrow is December 1st, and that Christmas is a mere 24 days away!

Things have been busy here with traveling to Georgia for Thanksgiving and then the last few days, decorating for Christmas. We also got our Christmas pictures printed and ready to slip into Christmas cards. I will be posting some of the pictures on here very soon!

On a NaNoWriMo note, I hope everyone is nearing the end of their goals and is ready to submit today! Congratulations to those who have already done so; and to those who fell short this year, no worries! There is always next year!

Look for pictures and another update soon! Until next time...

Creatively yours,
Kat

Fuzzy Pajamas, Fluffy Dog, and Finally Writing

My morning started with 2 giant smiles and drooley hugs, and ended with sticky fingers and cheese and cracker encrusted grins. It was a busy day in Twinville (though it always is with 1-year-olds). By the time 5 p.m. rolled around I rolled to the car, home, and almost straight into bed - - only stopping to take Bruce out to pee and then we both jumped in and under the covers. I'm not sure who crashed first, but we were out until my roommates got home with dinner. Only then did we drag ourselves to the big white chair in the living room where we remained watching Sex in the City until Josh knocked at the door around 9. It's a lazy day, and I have been in my fluffy Christmas pajamas since 5:10 and don't plan to remove them any time soon.

Right now I am stealing my boyfriends bed and Bruce is cuddled up next to me and I'm working on NaNoWriMo. I'm working on a few kinks in the plot, but other than that, I am really getting excited about what is developing. I rummaged through my old writing portfolios last night and found some really good ideas that I hope to incorporate.

For now though, it's back to work! 22 days left!

Creatively yours,
Kat Callaway

NaNoWriMo Updates, Advice, and the Shenanigans

I sincerely hope that all of you out there are too busy working on your NaNoWriMo masterpieces to read this! But if you happen to be looking for a distraction and have found my page, clearly you are not alone in your procrastination so don't feel too bad ;)

Needless to say, NaNoWriMo has been on my mind constantly the last 4-days. Though it's been a rather chaotic 24 hours. I spent last night in the E.R. because my roommate was in a head-on collision and totaled her car. I rode to the hospital in the ambulance with her. She is doing ok, and I have to say that I think it had something to do with the EMT and myself distracting her with the Fireman's calendar. But (thanks to HER SEAT BELT *hint hint*) she got really lucky. No broken bones, just a lot of cuts and bruises.

In other news we recently celebrated Halloween, both Heather Guran's and Josh's birthday, and I met Josh's parents... all last weekend! Everything went really well, and was a lot of fun. On Halloween my two roommates and I dressed up to act in a haunted house from which all the proceeds went to charity. It was a lot of fun, especially the part where I convinced my boyfriend to go through and we got to scare him. Overall, the weekend went really well, in all aspects. Everyone got older as planned ;)


- Bruce and I dressed up for the Ocean Birthday Party, I'm a Narwhale, he is a Cuddle Fish -

Now, down to business as we are nearing the end of day four of NaNoWriMo, though you still have plenty of time to get your daily word count in! Suffering from writers block? After 3 years of participating I have found that the following tips help keep me on track and motivated:

* The daily motivation e-mails are sent for a reason. They have great advice, funny stories, and much more. So take the time to read them and enjoy!

* Don't stress yourself out over this... it's supposed to be fun. So if you find yourself at your computer pulling your hair, take a break! Get out, have some fun, and then come back in and get back to it! If you don't make your word count one day, that's quite all right, tomorrow maybe the inspiration bug will bite you in the butt and you write 3 days worth? Who knows!

* Search around your area for support groups. You'd be surprised at how many other people in your town are working away at that 50,000 word goal. Having a group of people to hang out with while you are working can not only inspire you, but keep you focused. Plus it's a good excuse to order pizza while writing (not that you really need an excuse).

* Find a place that inspires you to work. That could be a desk, a bench at a park, the kitchen table. Whatever works! For me I have discovered that stealing my boyfriends bed while he is grading papers or lesson planning and snuggling up with Bruce, (the cutest dog in the world), and my laptop is what does the trick. I can write for hours that way!

* Set goals/rewards of your own. After so many words go get a pedicure, or buy that sweater you have always wanted. Take yourself to a movie or to dinner, (have someone take you to dinner). Something that inspires you to keep on pecking at those keys!

* Let the people you live with, or your friends or significant others know what you are doing so they can support you. The most helpful thing I have had happen so far is my boyfriend texting me randomly first thing in the morning, "So I divided 50,000 x 30 and it comes up to 1,667 words a day for November. You can do it!!! Love you!" It helps to have people who believe in you!

* Believe in yourself! You CAN do this, one word at a time. Before you know it, December 1st will be here and you will already be counting down the days until next November.

If you are still having trouble with writers block, try writing exercises or free-writing in a journal. Or brainstorming with post-it notes, markers, crayons, and paint. Whatever works!

On that note, I am off to work on my own word count! Good luck to everyone participating and until next time...

Creatively yours,
Kat Callaway

NaNoWriMo Kicks Off Today!

National Novel Writing Month begins today! 30 days to write 50,000 words of your choice; the plot line and genre entirely up to you. So get started now, what are you waiting for?! :)

Birthdays, Halloween, Twins, and... 7 DAYS UNTIL NANOWRIMO!

Life has been as busy as a bee lately and the busiest week is still ahead of me! Working with the twins, two birthdays, meeting Josh's parents, working at the Haunted House on Halloween, Halloween itself, and a few other events I am attending! Though all things will be fun!

Now what about NaNoWriMo you may ask? The writing gods got together and I just happen to have November 1st off, the very day that kicks off this grand and very wordy month! I plan to spend the ENTIRE day in my comfiest pajamas, ordering food in throw away containers, and writing my heart out. This year, there will be 50,000 words written by November 30th... no exceptions.

In other news, things are going great! I still love my job, the twins are changing every day. I can't wait to see them on Halloween as they will be a Frog and Bumble bee! Very cute costumes indeed!

For now I must get back too it, but look for another post soon.... ish ;)

Creatively yours,
Kat

Meteor Shower Tonight

This is totally unrelated to writing, but there is a meteor shower tonight! The Draconids! The best time to see it is around 2 a.m. in a place with very little or no lighting. For me, that place will be the beach! My boyfriend and I have decided to head to St. George Island for the night and watch the shower and get good seafood for dinner. It's going to be a lot of fun and a great way to end a very busy week! So if you have some free time, look up to the stars tonight, it should be very beautiful.

Creatively yours,
Kat

Projects, Projects Everywhere!

Currently I am up to my ears in new projects!!! I am working on the new blog, "In a Twinstant" - a comedic look at being a nanny; working on my newest book idea involving a very little pumpkin; working on my teen-novel manuscript (though I will admit, it has taken the back burner for now); and trying to get in the swing of things with The Write Brain Workbook. Lots to do and working over-time this week at work so time seems to be flying! Last night I worked on getting up more cork boards so I can start spreading out more, making it easier to be working on multiple projects.

So I must get back to it! But check here later for the link to my new blog, and more updates!

Creatively yours,
Kat

Happy Fall/October!

Hey everyone! Just wanted to wish you all a Happy October 1st day! It is finally beginning to feel like Fall here, my favorite time of the year!



This day happens to be extra special. It's the twins 1st birthday! I got off of work yesterday and spent 6 HOURS driving around Tallahassee shopping for things for their big day. From pointy hats, to Sesame Street themed paper. I got it all! I got home around 11:30 p.m. and started in with the sugar cookies (also Sesame Street themed) and wrapping, not crawling into bed until the wee hours of the morning, around 4:30 a.m. Needless to say when my alarm went off at 8 a.m. it took everything I had to resist the urge to burrow further into the blankets.



Currently, it's nap-time in twin-ville. So far today we have attempted plaster hand-molds - - something I DO NOT recommend as a "quick and easy gift." They didn't work out so well. Though I am sure the dog was highly entertained by the three of us trying to accomplish this task. Though I am sure he would have been more amused if what was being thrown on the floor was actually edible.



All this and it's not even 11 yet! More stories later I am sure, but I wanted to say hi, and change the background of the blog (in honor of fall)!

Until next time...

Creatively yours,

The Plaster Covered Nanny/Writer
-aka. Kat-

Another Helpful Tool...Muwhahahaha!

I know I have mentioned this before, but I thought I would remind everyone! Write or Die by Dr. Wicked (not to be confused with Dr. Evil)...




... is a very helpful tool for those with short attention spans. It keeps me on track, and is pretty entertaining as well. It might not be right for everyone, but worth trying!




Check it out at:
http://writeordie.drwicked.com/

The Right Book to Help You Write... Right Away! ;)

Hey all you creative genius'! I am working on gearing up for NaNoWriMo and found a really helpful workbook that I thought I would share! Not only is it great for breaking the block, it is a lot of fun! So check it out ;)

Order the book from here: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Write-Brain-Workbook/Bonnie-Neubauer/e/9781582973555/?itm=1&USRI=the+write+brain+workbook

Writer's Block

Urban Dictionary.com defines writer's block as: When a writer runs out of bullshit to use in their writings. I'm going to have to say I agree right now. Though I need to get it in gear as November is getting closer and closer, which means NaNoWriMo is too! Consider yourself warned ;)

Creatively yours,
Kat

Cold in Fall... and We're Not Talking Climate!

Fall has begun here in Tallahassee, and the forecast for the last weekend was colds with a high chance of sneezing! My two roommates and I all got the worst colds and spent the last part of the weekend swimming in Kleenex and cold meds. Though the weekend didn't start out bad!

Friday after work my boyfriend took me to The Melting Pot. An entire restaurant dedicated to the art of fondue (I am well aware I sound like a small town girl in the big city right now - - but hey wait, I am)! There were 4 courses, all served via this little pot that was on a burner in the middle of our table. It was quite possibly the coolest date I have been on! What sealed the deal (besides being with him) was when they caught the chocolate on fire (on purpose)! The waiter also got bonus points for saying "It's your chocolate, you can do whatever you want with it!" My inner 5-year old wanted to say, "anything?!" But I held it in!

After dinner, we went to the Fun Station where we spent an insane amount of time trying to win enough tickets on the arcade games to get a blue duck that looked like a penguin. Being the two very dedicated adults that we are, we succeeded - - managing to get a slinky and an army man as well. Then it was golf time.... and lets just say as far as careers go, we should let Tiger Woods do his thing and he should stick to being a composer, and I should stick to being a writer.

Saturday is when we all woke up sick. Sadly on the weekend we had planned on decorating for Halloween. We weren't too bad though; we didn't let it stop us from packing up and going to the beach for the day! We decided maybe the best medicine was a girls day out! We went to St. George's Island and spent the day laying on the sad rather than in our beds. For dinner we went to the Blue Parrot - - a beach side restaurant that was amazing. If ever you find your self in St. George's, I highly recommend it. After dinner we decided to look at the stars for a big from the beach, and then headed home.

The rest of the weekend we spent a lot of time watching movies, being lazy, and when we found the energy - - feeding the Alligators and turtles in the pond behind our place. We finally named the biggest Alligator - S'more. He likes marshmallows. (*Sidenote: We know that it is a horrible idea to feed the alligators, however, they kind of do what they want when we are feeding the turtles; and I'm not going to argue with them)!

This week I have been busy working with the Twindles. They are growing up and changing every day (how is that for cliche)! They are both walking now, and have figured out how to unlock the baby gates. Monday morning I came in the garage door to find them both eating pebbles of dog food as fast as they could cram it in. They are very ornery to say the least.

As for writing, I am hoping to get back on track after being sick and form a more stick schedule for desk time. I bought a workbook with writing exercises that I hope will help! More on that later!

I'm off for now, but I hope everyone is enjoying September and the beginning of Fall so far. Until next time...

Creatively yours,

Kat

September Already?!

Hello all! It's hard to believe that it is already September here in sunny Florida. It has been very busy! My roommates and I are moved into and just about settled in our new apartment. We have spent the last month thoroughly enjoying the lakeside view complete with back porch deck to relax on and watch the wildlife. There is an amazing amount of turtles, heron, and alligators! All of which we are trying to name (harder than you would think). We also have been enjoying the pool that is surrounded by palm trees! Yesterday we went on a quest for new floats to float on and relax. The difference between this place and our old one is amazing!

The other plus is that I just happen to live about 5 minutes away from work. Saving me from having to drive through the city and avoiding traffic! Also, the twins and I can go on walks to the park near my house, which is always an adventure!

My desk is all unpacked and slowly getting organized. I have found myself taking trips to the diner where my roommate works to use the Internet and research information for my newest manuscript. Most of my writing is on napkins there, which is highly entertaining to others. I have also started working during nap-time at work, and stealing my boyfriends Internet (and dog) in the evenings when we hang out. The latter being my favorite... though I easily get distracted by Bruce's fluffiness and distracted by playing fetch (if you hadn't guessed, we are talking about the dog, not the boyfriend). Despite this, I am making a lot of progress. I am REALLY excited about this book idea, and been working every chance I get. Tonight I am meeting my sister at Books-a-Million to look for a few books on Diana Ross for research purposes. Hopefully I will get a bit of writing done there as well.

Not much else is going on right now. Though the twins turn 1 here in a few weeks, that is exciting! Grover is walking, and Cookie Monster isn't far behind! I cannot believe how much they have grown since I started working here. I love this job, and being able to see them change every day. Speaking of which, nap time is nearing an end so I best get bottles ready to go!

Until next time...

Creatively yours,
Kat

Moving on UP... :)

Hey everyone! Just a quick update! My roommates and I got moved OUT of the ghetto! We rented a U-Haul and got everything moved last Saturday with the help from some amazing friends. The new place is coming together and already feels more like a home than our old place. It's amazing the difference in even small things has been. Like being able to walk to our cars at night. Or not having to check if the door is locked 2o times before finally being able to fall asleep. I think it's safe to say we won't be missing the ghetto!

Back to unpacking (hopefully for the last time)!

Creatively Yours,

Kat Callaway

Barrel of Giggles in the Ghetto

It has been awhile since I have made a post; and a lot has changed! One of the biggest things being that in 2 days we move(again)! We found a really nice place (with a spotless crime report online), that we sign the lease and get the keys for this Friday! The three of us have never been more ready to get out of the Ghetto!

Everything else has turned around too :) The last month has been so different from my first month here in Tally. Things just flipped, and have been getting better ever since. And I am OK with that! We got our fair share of bad luck out of the way I hope!

Last weekend Heather, Heather and I went down to Orlando for the CV - Star Wars Convention. It was really cool; though the best part was when they surprised me with a late birthday present - Disney World!!!! It was a special event so we got to be at Disney until 2 a.m.! Talk about epic! Why? BECAUSE WE MET CARRIE FISHER AND GOT HER AUTOGRAPH!!!! Sadly we weren't aloud to take pictures of her at the autograph booth, but we got a pic of us with the autographed pic as well as other awesome things! Check out these pictures:











Like I said, things are going well :) There is a lot more going on, but I only have the Internet during nap-time (at work)! Look for more updates soon and pictures from the new place next week!

Until then!

Creatively Yours,
Kat

Update's From the Ghetto

Life is slowly but surely getting back on track. Though I doubt any of us will ever be quite the same after this experience. It has certainly left us on our toes. Good news is we are hoping to move. You would have thought the robbery was enough to convince us but it was the shooting last night that actually sealed the deal! We were bringing in groceries when it happened across the street. 3 gun shots sounded and suddenly a group of men came rushing out of the house and into the street fighting. We quickly ducked into the house bolting the door behind us and eventually the ghetto got quiet again. Or at least it's version of quiet! We are hoping that last nights occurrence and the robbery are enough to release us from the lease. This is by no means the "family neighborhood" that it was advertised as!

Given the nights drama, I was excited to get out of the Ghetto for the evening! I met up with a guy I met last November at my sister's birthday party. We met when he came looking for his dog who had randomly jumped up in my lap, licked me once, and curled up in a ball and went to sleep as if we had been best buds forever! I hadn't seen him since that night and we hadn't really talked too much but he is literally the only other person I know in Tallahassee besides my roommates and maybe 2 other acquaintances! We had a really good time and I think that for the first time since the robbery I was able to relax and not think about the chaos that has been the last week! We went to Level 8, which is a higher class bar on the 8th level of a hotel. I loved it because the entire front of it was a balcony and we could see the stars really well. Also, I discovered Mango frozen yogurt when we went to a frozen yogurt place after dinner (which was a new experience for me, I didn't know places like that existed).We will chalk that up to being a small-town girl! Overall it was a really good night and nice to meet (or re-meet as the case may be) a new face. Though as I am writing this, I am realizing that I think I just went on a date. Hmmm? If so I definitely like this plot change :)

More news later, hopefully regarding a move! Until then...

Creatively yours,
Kat

From here, to there... Chaos is EVERYWHERE!

A few hours after my last post chaos walked into my life. Actually, it broke in the back window, using a brick. It then proceeded to steal well over half of my roommates and my stuff! Leaving behind a trail of glass, a trashed apartment, and three very rattled girls!

Needless to say, since then the focus has been placed on trying to put order back into my life. They took a lot of stuff; which sadly includes all of my jump drives that contained all of my manuscripts! The more we continue to clean the place, the more we realize is gone. This is very hard to continue to do but it must be done. The good thing is that no one was home when it happened and no one was harmed. At the end of the day, that is what matters the most.

Originally, we were going to continue living here in the ghetto, despite the break-in. Though that has recently changed. I believe the decision was made after the fight across the street that involved a gun! (Like I said, we live in the ghetto). We could handle all the trouble we had with the apartment when we first moved in, but lack of safety is where I draw the line! So, the search for a new place has begun, and we are working on getting out of our lease. Here is to hoping!

In true fashion, everything else seems to be in chaos mode as well, but nothing worth blog-time at the moment. I'm hoping that we are just getting all the bad stuff out of the way? Let's hope! Either way, I keep telling my roommates, this will all be great for a book someday! ;)

Creatively yours (from the Ghetto),
Kat

Super-Nanny Overcomes Writers Block and Masters the Art of 4 Lane Traffic

Life has been interesting lately; in many different aspects. Despite a few bumps in the road, I am still trucking along. Most of my energy is being channeled into my new job as I near the end of week 2 as full-time nanny. I have taken care of a lot of kids over the years, but twins is a whole new experience. It's double the work of a single baby and has to be done at twice the speed. But I love it! The boys, who I've nicknamed Cookie Monster and Grover, are a lot of fun to work with and I really look forward to getting to work in the a.m. because I am usually greeted by big toothless grins that could make Oscar the Grouch's morning a little brighter.

The other great part about my job is that I am working with children, which, really inspires me to work on my writing. Even better than that, I get to use that inspiration during nap time, which I have recently found is the perfect time to work on my writing. It's usually about an hour, but that is a perfect amount of time to jot down ideas, or edit an already typed out manuscript. Today, I started working on a new idea that I have been pushing around for a few months. I got a lot done and felt accomplished for the first time in awhile. Hopefully I will locate my desk under the moving mess soon so I can get even more done! Though that won't be this weekend as Heather and I are headed to Ponte Vedra Beach.

Heather and I haven't been to PVB in a long time; at least together. That is where we met 10.5 years ago and our epic best-friendship began. I haven't been back since my family moved 8(ish) years ago. It is going to be weird (and I'm not sure that word even covers it). But, it will be fun, because we will be together and that usually results in nothing less than epic moments. And, after all, there will be a beach ;)

Last but not least, I mastered getting home without a GPS today and no "almost" accidents in the 4 lane traffic! Things are looking up!

I'm off to work on the apartment for now, but until then...

Creatively yours,
Kat Callaway

First Update from Florida :)

After over 30 hours in a moving truck, and going through approximately 5 states and 4 tanks of gas, I am officially a Floridian! Though that was about two weeks ago ;) It has been very busy since I got here, but in a good way! I am still unpacking and working on painting and other fun items on the to-do list. Monday I start work bright and early! Yes, that's right, I have a job! Starting Monday at 9 a.m. I begin my new position as a nanny (something I have wanted to get back into for quite some time).

Things are going very well, but busy. I am just now getting my desk unpacked and set up. Seems as if there is always another box hiding somewhere!

More later, I am on the run (and don't have Internet at home so using a restaurants at the moment). Which, it took me over 45 minutes to find said restaurant as I am NOT used to this town being over 4 times as big as Emporia. Hopefully I get a sense of direction (or better GPS) soon. Until then...

Creatively yours,
Kat Callaway
(the Floridian)

2, 3, 4... In That Order!

Well, the weekend went quickly and now there are 2 days until I pick up the moving truck, 3 days until we head out on the open road, and 4 days until I am officially a Floridian! I am very excited, yet there is SO MUCH to do! :)I am to the point that I am just ready to hit the road! It is going to be a great trip there because one of my best friends, Melissa (also known as Ouiser), is going with me. We are going to make the 20 hour drive fun and stop at a few places along the way. Of course, there will be pictures on here as soon as I get to a computer! Until then, I best get back to it!

Creatively yours,
Kat

8 day and Cloudy with a chance of - - TWISTER!

It's been a rather interesting day! For instance, we were hit by a random thunderstorm that seemed to have popped up out of nowhere and before we knew it turned into a tornado warning. In addition to the chaos, it just so happens that today is also the day that half of the library windows have been taken out! Luckily, the tornado was outside of town on the east side and there was no damage other than branches taken down by the wind; but what a way to end the day!

Other than being a soggy day it has been a good one. I have been working on wrapping things up at work for the next night supervisor, and working on moving details. The moving truck is officially booked and will be picked up Thursday at 8 a.m. For the most part I am packed up, but will need to do my room next week. This weekend I go to say goodbye to my family, so it will be a tough weekend. Though I am sure time will go quickly and quicker than a mad hornet it'll be moving day!

Creatively yours,
Kat

1O Days!

I am only 10 days away from starting the trip to Florida! I can't wait, I miss my best friend and just flat out want to be there already! Granted, there is still a lot to do here, but it is coming along!

In other news, I got my computer back and it as good as new, (if not better). I missed it and have been clicking away at night when I should be sleeping! I actually have a new book idea I have been working on (when I should be working on the layout/design for my new website). But hey, it's production!

More later!

Creatively yours,
Kat

15 Days and ... WOAH, WHAT?!

Time seems to have skipped right by me as we are only 15 days away from the big move. I realized it was getting closer, but it was not until a friend put it into the prospective of "two weekends away" that I choked on the ice of my strawberry lemonade in slight shock. This is all happening really fast, and I know that it is only going to get faster. I'm excited, but I am other things too... though not sure what those things are yet. Nervous? Anxious? Maybe... but only slightly. I'm anxious and ready to get this show (or moving truck) on the road and nervous for the move itself and what comes after the move (which translates into I have a lot on my mind these days). My best friend from Kansas and I are going to be driving a big moving truck 1,054.35 miles towing my 2005 Dodge Neon behind it... this being the part I am nervous about. The trip itself I am excited for, as Melissa and I always have interesting adventures that inevitably result in numerous stories. On that note, scratch the nervous about the trip... we'll make it ;) (I have a feeling 3 people in Florida are placing bets on WHEN we will make it through, hahaha).

Lots to do in the next 15 days, but look for updates here! Won't be long until you'll be reading posts from Florida!

Creatively yours,
Kat

28 Days to Go!

Summer is well on it's way as the second week winds down! The last 11 days have whizzed by in a whirlwind of working 8 a.m. - 5 p.m, moving into my temporary apartment, and preparing things for the big move in 28 days! We are getting close! I booked the moving truck this week, and filled out over 10 job applications! Productive, yes! Excited, even more so!

In other news, with classes over, I have had time to start reading again and start working on my own writing. Which has been rather nice, I missed being able to do this. On that note, if you want a good read, check out "The Carrie Diaries," by Candace Bushnell. Normally I wouldn't give shout-outs to television shows. However, this books is about Carrie Bradshaw BEFORE Sex and the City. It's written from Carrie's point of view back when she was in high school. It's written more for teen/young adult/adult audiences. However, even if you have not seen the show, the book would still be enjoyable! I felt that the author did a great job, and the ending is....well, guess you will just have to read it ;)

Ok, back to work I go! Hope the summer is off to a great start for all of you! Stay warm, and out of trouble... and get out there and make your own stories this summer ;)

Creatively Yours,
Kat Callaway

38 Days and Counting!

Finals are over, school is out, and a mere 38 days remain until my moving truck departs (though I was ready yesterday)! It will be a busy time, as I will be working right up until the day before I leave. However, because I just moved last week from my old apartment and into a temporary one, most of my stuff is already packed!

The next few weeks will be work from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hopefully between now and then my computer will be getting fixed as well! Then of course there will be other fun summer things going on, and, a lot of writing!

Speaking of which, back to work I go! Until then though...

Creatively yours,
Kat Callaway

Happy

Today I was bouncing around the apartment with Heather, my best friend, after she got off work and talking about our days and laughing, and I came to a realization. I am the happiest I have ever been in my life! It's an amazing feeling! Even through there is still a lot to sort through and figure out. Houses to find (though we might have found one today), jobs to get, and other important things that can be somewhat stressful at times. I truly am happy! :) I also realized last night that I can officially say that I am moving here in one month! ONE MONTH! Life is really on it's way!


Creatively (and happily) yours,
Kat

Finally in Florida...Even if Only For a Little While!

I am currently back in Florida for a visit! I am here for Heather's graduation (so proud of her), and for job interviews and house hunting! It will be a busy week! I am here until May 8th; and I want that time to go SLOW! I don't want to leave... not in a week, not ever! However, it's a wonderful feeling to know that this time when I leave, I will be returning in a u-haul! :)

Things are going good! Heather graduates in the morning, and then we will be celebrating with family and friends. Later this week I will be job hunting and all business. Though one day I am running away to the beach with someone ;) Very excited for that day!

For now though, I must get some sleep as there is a busy day ahead of me! Goodnight all!

Creatively yours,
Kat

Writing Programs

Things are still busy and soggy here in Kansas! The rain has been coming down quickly the last few hours. I love it as I am most productive during thunderstorms! Currently, I am investigating new writing programs in Tallahassee, Fl. Part of moving means transferring from the Kansas Chapter of SCBWI to the the Florida Chapter. It's exciting, but I will miss my friends from the Kansas chapter! There are a lot of good memories there. Yet when one door closes another one opens; and that's where the adventures are!
I am also looking into joining The Tallahassee Writers Association, TWA for short. This really excites me as I would be living in the same town as a program. Usually I have to travel to get to the events; but this would put me right there in the middle of the action!
Overall, I am making progress in the way of preparing for the big move. I am excited to be headed down there for interviews in 21 days! That and I really miss a few people there!

Until next time...

Creatively yours,
Kat

Spring has Sprung and Time is Flying!

First of all, Happy Easter! Today is that joyous day where we all sit and ponder how in the world an Easter Bunny lays eggs and marvel at the fact that Jesus was in fact, the very first Zombie. In Kansas, we are happy to be celebrating the fact that we can go outside without the fear of freezing our bums off! The weather is absolutely beautiful!
Despite the warmer weather, I am stuck inside this evening as I am working this weekend. But I did get to drive down after work yesterday to visit my grandparents for an early Easter Dinner, and then drive back this afternoon in time for work at 2p.m. It was a short visit, but a good one! Now, it's back to business time!

Things are rather hectic here! I am busily working away on getting things ready to move! When I started this process, June seemed to be far away, and I just wanted to be there! Now, I am 75 days away from hopping into the U-haul and headed South and there is so much to do in that short time! I am in the process of selling my apartment early and hope to be out of it by the time I go to Tallahassee for interviews, my 22nd birthday, and Heather's graduation (I am so proud of her)! My flight leaves April 28th, and I will be gone until May 8th. Then, upon returning I will be living with a friend until I head out bright and early on the 21st of June (which will be an epic adventure in itself as my two good friends, Melissa and Kyle, will be going with me). My first official day in Tally will be June 22nd!

Right now at home I am working on getting all of my writing stuff ready to transfer. I have files and stuff everywhere and I am trying to get it all where it needs to be. Beyond that, I want to have stuff that I will need where I can still get to it during all this chaos! One thing I have realized during this process is that I have a LOT of books, and even more filled journals! I found some fun memories while going through an old trunk the other night. It's always fun to see how far you have come by reading old journals; and I have come a long way in the last year and a half alone. It was reassuring to see that, especially during all this change! A nice reminder that you can get through anything and do just about anything when you put your mind to it; one step at a time! ;)

Overall, while things are busy and a bit chaotic; they are going good! I am very excited for everything that is going on in my life right now, and ready for all the opportunities that are coming up in the next few months. Now if time would just hurry up, I could get there quicker! I'll always be a Kansas girl, but my heart is already in Florida!

Creatively yours,
Kat

Announcement Time!

As promised, I have a few announcements to make. Part of going to Florida for so long this last visit was to help me finally decide what it is I want to do (ok, maybe it would be better to say what I "should" do as I have "wanted" to do this for awhile now). The final decision was that when my plane landed back in Kansas after the break I would know. However, it ended up that I knew the second I walked off the plane on March 10th (the beginning of my break). So, without further hesitation, I'm excited to announce that after much thought and a lot of planning, I will be moving to Florida! It was a very tough decision to make, even though it's what I want. I have been very lucky here with a wonderful job that I will miss greatly. However, I am very excited about the opportunities that are available where I am headed.

The next few months will be very hectic. I will be moving out of my apartment at the end of April to a temporary place. I will then be taking a mini trip to Tally for my sister's graduation and for job interviews. After that I will return to Kansas for a bit longer, until the end of June, and packing stuff into a U-Haul. I will be heading out on June 21st and officially arrive in Tally June 22nd. Making this the biggest and most hectic move of all! Which means great stories later of course!

I am very confident and excited about my decision. It's a big change, but I feel that it is for the best. I have found it harder and harder to come back from Tally every time I go. There are many things I care about there, and a lot of opportunities that I cannot wait to explore! But more on that later; I just wanted to share my exciting news now that it is official!

Creatively yours,
Kat

My Spring Break 2010 Photos

Heather and I on the car ride to Orlando.


Heather and I at Disney right after we made our big announcement!


About to head into the Magic Kingdom with my ticket!


Magic Kingdom: In trouble already!


Heather, Lance and I on Dumbo!


The whole gang! Minnie, Heather, Heather G, Me, Lance, and Mickey


Me being...me!


501st: Squad 7!


Me as Superwoman and Lance as partial Boba Fett
(end of conference day, he was already out of costume)


Myself and a random Penguin! We will call him... Hughey? :)

The Countown Begins!

It's officially less than 24 hours until I head out Florida! 23 hours or 1424 minutes to be exact! Needles to say, my focus is a bit scatted at this point! I am very excited, but I also have a lot to get done before I leave for the airport! What keeps me motivated? In a day, I will get off the plane in Tallahassee and tackle my best friend! In two days I will be in DISNEY WORLD for the first time in my entire life! I am 21 (22 next month) and I've never been! I am fully prepared to resort back to being a 10-year old! In three days I will be in a fancy smancy hotel, and busily costuming at MegaCon (nerdy yes, but a very fun opportunity to tap into your creative side)! And did I mention that I am going to be with the some of my favorite people!?

Right now I have a list of things that I am trying to get through tonight. I managed to incorporate writing into it as well, ha! It's Cat in the Hat Themed. I was bored?! ;) I am being neurotic about some things that aren't for the trip. I need to go over the final pages for Lily the Lady Bug because they are due a few days after I return to Kansas. I will have some down time in Florida so I am taking the proofs with me. I also have some school projects that I need to keep on top off! So I am trying to get what I can done now, and the rest I will take along with me!

In other news, today was the first rainy day of Spring! We didn't really get any thunder with it, but that was ok. It smells fresh and crisp out. Perfect weather to curl up in a blanket and read a good book! If only I had time!

I think that about wraps it up! I will try and make a post or two when I am in Florida. However, if I don't get to it I will make one when I get back for sure, with lots of pictures! Until then...

Creatively yours,
Kat Callaway

Big Decisions

Right now I find myself doing a lot of journal work as I have had some rather big decisions presented to me lately! A few opportunities have opened up, and they are very exciting and would be rather large turning points in my life! However, to pursue these opportunities I would have to sacrifice a few things and take some risks. I can't announce anything quite yet for various reasons, but I promise as soon as I can and have made my decision I will make a special blog with all the details. I leave for Florida in 7.5 days and will return around the 20th, I should know by then!



In other news, I am very excited to be going to Florida in 7.5 days! I can't stop thinking about everything that we are going to be doing! Disney World, MegaCon, and so much more! Yet the best part is getting to see the people I care about... and getting out of Emporia, Kansas! I'm always in the mood for an adventure!

Until next time...

Creatively Yours,
Kat Callaway

"Lily the Ladybug Loves to Shop" to be Printed!

"Lily the Ladybug Loves to Shop" will be printed in hardback by the end of April! I am very excited for this! Granted, the book will not be available for purchase in stores, but copies can be purchased though me! (Just e-mail me for more details). I will eventually post prices here as we get closer to the date it is released.

This is a small project funded through an ESU class and so while the book will be "published" through a small press, it will not be officially published in the writing world. Therefore, the manuscript (along with other books in the series) are still available to interested agents/publishers! This just means I will have a nice hardback copy for my portfolio! Which, also excites me!

Lily the Ladybug was the first character I every really worked with when I decided I wanted to make Children's Book writing my career. We have come a long way, and it is exciting to be able to experience this!

February Frenzy!

February is speeding by but still packed full of events! I am working away at my new major ( I am now in the Elementary Education Program at ESU) and still working at ESU Library and Archives as the Library Assistant II/Night Supervisor. March is just around the corner and I am sprinting towards it with excitement! In 12 (11.5 really) days I leave for Florida again. Besides the obvious reason of going to visit Heather, we will be doing a few fun things! My Christmas present from Lance was going to Disney world, (which, I have never been too and I am completely psyched for it), and my gift to Heather was tickets to MegaCon (also in Orlando and we will be going right after Disney World)! Then, the rest of my Spring Break I will be just hanging out in Tallahassee (never a dull moment there)! I am ready to be out of Kansas and back in Tallahassee. One of the reasons being that I need to thaw out! The weather is ridiculous here, and I am tired of snow. Don't get me wrong, I love snow; but after Christmas it gets rather repetitive and messy! So, I am ready for some fun in the sun! :)

Writing is going very well, and I am about to make a fun announcement on here and can't wait to share news! So look for that coming soon!

For now I am off to write lesson plans and other randomness! Until then...

Creatively Yours,
Kat Callaway

Happy New Year!

Once again, time has flown by and taken every second I had with it! Upon my return from Florida in November it was a mad rush to get things ready for Christmas, and survive finals! Yet as busy as it was, it wasn't so bad! I was in a really good mood from Thanksgiving break! So much more than what was planned happened over the that time period, and the year 2009 ended even better than I could have hoped for!

While in Florida, my best friend turned 21, we went on our yearly road-trip to Atlanta, Georgia for a family Thanksgiving, and then got back for another epic trip of our own! We decided to head to Panama City for a day and had a pretty amazing adventure! I saw the ocean for the first time in about 6-years and spent a wonderful day making memories with Heather! After she was able to peel me away from the beach we headed in for an evening on the town. On the list was Ripley's Believe it Or Not Museum, Sharky's (a wonderful seafood restaurant on the beach), and a few other random places. Then, after one last trip to the beach to stargaze for a bit, we headed home for one last night of fun before I had to head out in the morning back to Kansas. I think I am still smiling from that night! We met up with a friend of Heather's (and a new friend of mine) and he and Heather and I spent most of the night going to random places in Tallahassee. Historic sites, ancient trees, and abandoned train stations. We stayed out for awhile before heading to Heather's apartment to hang out for what would turn out to be the rest of the night. We realized we had been talking all night when Heather said that I had to pack given the fact that my flight would be leaving in an hour and a half! Long story short, I was up for 2 days straight, but it was worth it! I could have slept on the flight home, but I was so happy I couldn't!

Heather came to visit for Christmas/New Year's this year. Add in a rather large blizzard and you had the perfect holiday break! We celebrated Christmas at mom's (who was extremely excited when we surprised her with Heather being home - - she had no idea she was coming); and then we had a party on new years to celebrate 2009 and the completion on my "2009 List!"

Speaking of 2009, it was a rather magnificent year! It started out with a bang, and required making some changes and tough decisions. But I am proud of myself for making them, and changing the stuff in my life that needed to be changed/removed a long time ago! As a result of that, I managed to get my life back on track, and experience what might just have been the best year of my life thus far.


I completed my New Year's Resolution Challenge, which consisted of a list of 60 things to do before midnight of 2010. These ranged from little things I've always wanted to do, to big things that I've needed to do for a long time. There was also quite a few adventurous ones, like skydiving! Which, I am excited to say... I am now a trained skydiver!

;) I also tried Sushi for the first time, went on a road-trip without making plans and ended up discovering some cool places! I leaned how to work a pop-corn machine like at a movie theater, saw almost every meteor shower there was in 2009, spent time catching fireflies, sent a message in a bottle, and so much more! I also made quite a bit of progress with my writing and was able to attend some awesome conference with amazing writers! I also continue to work on Lily the Ladybug and Confessions of a Frog-a-Holic!

I am looking forward to 2010! I have the feeling that it will be a wonderful year, full of surprises; and the best part of surprises is that they make great stories!


Creatively Yours,
Kat