Quick Note 5/4/09

We have arrived at dead week, the week before finals and close enough to summer that you can taste it and want to be there so bad it can drive you crazy! So what do you do to cure this? For me, it was skydiving! ;0) My best friend has been in town and we went skydiving yesterday! It was absolutely amazing and really opened my eyes to a lot. (It also sparked that inspiration within). Needless to say, things have been interesting (and busy) lately!

I have been working away on my manuscripts and getting ready for my first deadline that falls in September. Also, I got an exciting letter the other day from a publishing company requesting my work. It's always fun to get mail like that, but I have to do a little research before I send anything. If I could ever give any good advice on this it's to not jump into anything! It takes very little to get yourself into a pickle in the world of literature. Those who are not familiar with it or have no idea what they are doing will often assume that the faster the better. But that's a very dangerous way to go... and something you will learn through conferences and getting to know people who have been there. I haven't had any bad experiences myself, but have friends and fellow writers who have taught me better. Never let anyone pressure you into hurrying! Writing is an art, and it takes time!

Other than this, life has been beautiful. Things are truly looking up and starting about three months ago, life seemed to fall into place in numerous aspects. The writing is going fabulously, I will be moving here in about 2 1/2 weeks (new writing studio!!), my best friend is here for another week (many adventures for sure), and then of course there are other things and all I shall say on that is that I'm smiling! :0) Life is good... and when that happens, it does involve my writing and this blog; because the happier I am, the more inspired I am to write... and let's just say that I think I am writing more than I ever have in my life!

Creatively yours,
Kat

Weekend of Writing Planned

This week has been very busy with everything BUT writing! Therefore, my weekend is going to be packed with it! I have several assignments I need to complete for Fiction Writing and because next week is going to be packed with Heather FINALLY getting here, my 21st birthday, and the usual work/class load, this weekend is really my last chance!

I have been doing a lot of journal writing more than anything, but that is because life has been exciting and crazy and there is a lot to write about! I have neglected my manuscript for a few weeks, but I don't feel too bad because sometimes it helps to take a small break and come back later with a fresh set of eyes. Plus, once I get moved and get my new writing area set up I will start my summer writing schedule and have every intention of getting A LOT done! Have too since I have a deadline nearing in September!

Overall, things are going really well right now! I am insanely happy and that always sparks new ideas and fresh creativity! As an added bonus, the weather has been amazing!

Creatively yours,

Kat Callaway

Quote to Share

A friend of mine recently placed a post-it note on my desk with this quote... it was very sweet and inspirational so I thought I would share:

"Fear is the only obstacle that gets in the way of doing what we love. People are scared to travel, to try new things, to follow their dreams. Fear holds us back from living the lives we were made to live." -Unknown

~* Writing Wishes *~

I just submitted my writing wish to a group of 5 god sisters! No really, I did! Every year, a group of women who call themselves Fairy Godsisters, Ink get together and offer a scholarship to one lucky writer. The award amount would be $1,500 and it is used to help that lucky winner travel to the Los Angeles Summer SCBWI Conference. I have not been able to attend any of the huge conferences yet but have always wanted to go. Needless to say when I discovered this lucky chance I was extremely excited!

The contest ended today and it required a 250-word essay about why I could benefit from attending the conference. It was sent via e-mail and I will know in exactly one month on May 15th if my wish is granted! *Keep your fingers crossed!*

Creatively yours,

Kat

For the Story...

Life is a novel laced with pure irony. Irony is what draws us into the story and what keeps us turning the page, usually writing as we go along. But we only get one draft, and a good book is never long enough. So don't hold back for fear of permanent mistakes. It's important to remember that even though you can't take back chapters already written, you can re-read them and learn from your experiences... absorb the knowledge so that when it comes time to write that next page, you won't make the same mistakes. Along with that, learn to realize how precious each page is and how important those words you sprawl across the page really are. Remember that the mistakes usually end with the best stories. And above all, live each day as if it were your last page... your final chapter and chance to share your story. Do it for the irony....the little moments; the tears you hold back, and the laughter you can't; for the likes that somewhere along the way transform into love. Do it for the adventure. Live your life; and above all do it for the story.