Facebook, sunny days, and a real job...
Monday, July 27, 2009
Aloha friends---
And let me tell you, I FEEL like aloha today, because it's a blistering 97 degrees in the Pacific Northwest. Now, we Washingtonians are not good with heat. Let me say that right now. We are a bunch of whiners...we compain ten months a year because the sun is hidden behind the clouds and the rain, and then, when summer finally deigns to show her bright face, we moan that it's too hot. I'm not kidding. Last week it hit 90 degrees and the news stations started putting up weather warnings and telling us to 'watch the elderly." My friends in Florida and Texas laugh uproariously at this. All I know is that it's h.o.t.
So I have now spent a week on facebook, and here's what I have to say: who knew I had so many friends? I don't even know a lot of the people who are my friends. But I have reconnected with a couple of really good friends from college, and really, that's worth the price of admission. And several of my good writer friends are on facebook, and I love the funny, sharp, snarky messages they send out. So, all in all, I guess I'd say it's yet another addictive time-suck in the internet age, but like all the innovations, it has enough to recommend it. What it isn't, however, is as real or intimate as this blog. Those of you who worried that I would be swayed by the cute new boy who walked into the room can breathe easier. I'm one of those who dance with the one who brought me, as my grandpa used to say. This blog is my first and best foray into cyberspace and I feel like I really know you guys. Facebook is like the line to get into the hot club; this blog is the club itself.
Okay, I know I'm the only one watching the show, but I am completely torn between Jeffrey and Melissa on The Next Food Network Star. Well...I'm probably leaning slightly toward Melissa. Anyone who can teach herself to cook and always find a smile under stress is a woman to root for.
And speaking of movies, aren't you just dying to see Julie and Julia? A movie about two women who go after their personal destinies against impossible odds? How can you not love that?
I mentioned a real job in my headline, and I bet you're thinking: What does she know about a real job? And most of the time, I agree with you, but this has been a crazy week. One of those weeks where writing actually feels like a job. Here's what's happening: I'm knee deep into the book for 2011 and LOVING it. (I always love it in the first draft, before Megan has read it and told me how tragically misguided my affection for the words are). I am working on the backlist trade reissues of The Things We Do For Love, which means talking about covers, copy, and answering questions for the reader's guide. I am in talks with my publisher about the cover for Winter Garden, and now I'm reading the page proofs for that novel. Page proofs are the typset version of the book--its my last chance to proofread and/or change anything. Really. How does Nora Roberts do it? I am literally overwhelmed by these various tasks. Clearly i am not a girl who can keep a lot of plates in the air.
Just mentioning it makes me nervous. I have so much to do, and I guess I'd better get back to it. But here are a few more ideas for comfort movies: The cutting Edge, The Matrix, LOTR ( I know, I know, I'm a geek girl), Four Weddings and a Funeral, Pretty Woman, Steel Magnolias, and Crimes of the Heart.
Aloha! Enjoy the summer heat...
Kristin
And let me tell you, I FEEL like aloha today, because it's a blistering 97 degrees in the Pacific Northwest. Now, we Washingtonians are not good with heat. Let me say that right now. We are a bunch of whiners...we compain ten months a year because the sun is hidden behind the clouds and the rain, and then, when summer finally deigns to show her bright face, we moan that it's too hot. I'm not kidding. Last week it hit 90 degrees and the news stations started putting up weather warnings and telling us to 'watch the elderly." My friends in Florida and Texas laugh uproariously at this. All I know is that it's h.o.t.
So I have now spent a week on facebook, and here's what I have to say: who knew I had so many friends? I don't even know a lot of the people who are my friends. But I have reconnected with a couple of really good friends from college, and really, that's worth the price of admission. And several of my good writer friends are on facebook, and I love the funny, sharp, snarky messages they send out. So, all in all, I guess I'd say it's yet another addictive time-suck in the internet age, but like all the innovations, it has enough to recommend it. What it isn't, however, is as real or intimate as this blog. Those of you who worried that I would be swayed by the cute new boy who walked into the room can breathe easier. I'm one of those who dance with the one who brought me, as my grandpa used to say. This blog is my first and best foray into cyberspace and I feel like I really know you guys. Facebook is like the line to get into the hot club; this blog is the club itself.
Okay, I know I'm the only one watching the show, but I am completely torn between Jeffrey and Melissa on The Next Food Network Star. Well...I'm probably leaning slightly toward Melissa. Anyone who can teach herself to cook and always find a smile under stress is a woman to root for.
And speaking of movies, aren't you just dying to see Julie and Julia? A movie about two women who go after their personal destinies against impossible odds? How can you not love that?
I mentioned a real job in my headline, and I bet you're thinking: What does she know about a real job? And most of the time, I agree with you, but this has been a crazy week. One of those weeks where writing actually feels like a job. Here's what's happening: I'm knee deep into the book for 2011 and LOVING it. (I always love it in the first draft, before Megan has read it and told me how tragically misguided my affection for the words are). I am working on the backlist trade reissues of The Things We Do For Love, which means talking about covers, copy, and answering questions for the reader's guide. I am in talks with my publisher about the cover for Winter Garden, and now I'm reading the page proofs for that novel. Page proofs are the typset version of the book--its my last chance to proofread and/or change anything. Really. How does Nora Roberts do it? I am literally overwhelmed by these various tasks. Clearly i am not a girl who can keep a lot of plates in the air.
Just mentioning it makes me nervous. I have so much to do, and I guess I'd better get back to it. But here are a few more ideas for comfort movies: The cutting Edge, The Matrix, LOTR ( I know, I know, I'm a geek girl), Four Weddings and a Funeral, Pretty Woman, Steel Magnolias, and Crimes of the Heart.
Aloha! Enjoy the summer heat...
Kristin
23 Comments:
Kristin,
Could have fooled me that you're not a multi tasker -- just reread your current blog. And... you manage to maintain a relationship with all of us!
I'm not an author, but have spent years as a journalist and in public relations. I appreciate your sharing your process as an author. I do know that writing, editing, communicating is more than a real job -- especially when you're on deadline, hit a writers block, start munching on snacks, take a walk, and finally call it a day. Then just as you're falling to sleep, the flood doors open and the words flow spontaneously. You grab the pad by your bed to jot down your thoughts so you don't forget them. Yeah -- it's really more than a full time job especially for an author. And, your books reveal a passion that I know feeds your soul! That's what you convey in your novels.
Heard on NBC Nightly news last night that with our economic troubles, sales of romance novels are up as well as escape movies.
Good news for you!
Oh, I found a firefly birthday card in the Hallmark store. The background is blue and has fireflies all over it -- is similar to your book cover.
Well, I went to my 40th high school reunion last weekend not sure what to expect as I hadn't kept in touch. Connected with many friends -- some I went to kindergarten with. I really had a good time and will keep in touch. Not so envious now of Tully and Kate!
Blessings,
Patricia
P.S. Just heard Meryl Streep on the Tonight Show talking about Julia -- also can't wait to see the movie.
I think I'm leaning toward Melissa too! AND I just compared temps with my sister in Redmond, while we're hotter in Vegas, I don't envy that humidity. Ha!
Can't wait for your next book to come out, I'm caught up and have read all of them since I discovered Firefly Lane in May.
Hi Kristen,
I can't believe it is so hot. We have our AC on through the night! That's unheard of here.
One comfort movie I'd like to add is Moonstruck with Cher and Nicholas Cage. I adore it, funny and sweet.
I have enjoyed every one of your books. They have all made me ponder, reminisce, laugh and cry. Thank you for that.
Mona
Random House just sent me an email this morning about the rerelease of Between Sisters. Just thought you'd like to know.
Hot is hot no matter where you live. I saw the heat warning/watch for the northwest on The Weather Channel last weekend (Little Miss changed the channel and we were too lazy to wrestle for the remote). It's been mild in DC lately (except the week RWA was here, of course).
For those here, there is a video of Little Miss on my blog (which links to Facebook). She's dancing. It's only 6 seconds, but I watch it at least a thousand times a day. I think it may be the 3rd or so entry.
I've caught an episode here and there of The Next Food Network Star. I watched last weekend. I gravitate towards Melissa more because I feel she's more marketable and will have a show I would actually watch. I'm not sure if I'll see Julie & Julia in the theater, but it does make a good trailer. I groaned through The Ugly Truth last weekend. I can't put my finger on what I didn't like, but everyone else in the theater loved it (just be prepared for the dirty humor which I normally love, but it didn't seem to fit in with the tone of the rest of the movie).
This week, I'm willing to trade my real job away. Totally have been griping all week which makes me feel like a tattle, but seriously, I'm not looking bad because someone else won't do her job.
Have a good week, Fireflies!
Kristin,
I just wanted to let you know that I just read the Magic Hour which is the first book I ever read of yours & it was the best book I have ever read in my entire life. I LOVED IT!!!!! I was addicted to it & could not, for the life of me, put it down. I was even sneak reading it in my drawer at work. That is how bad I was addicted to it. I am so excited to have found you as an author & at the same time am mad that I have been missing out all this time. Can't wait to go to the book store & buy your others.
-Jessica Kuuipo
Hi Kristin - I think we have a bit of the North West weather here in Connecticut this summer. We have been having thunderstorms practically every night. Very wet summer and also cooler than it has ever been. However, there is still some warm and sunny time when I've been able to escape to the beach to relax and read. For me, reading at the beach is the best vacation there is even if I am only 3 miles from home. I can't wait for Julia and Julie. I know I will love it as Meryl and Amy are two of my favorites and I always loved Julia Child. I know keeping up with all that goes into each book is difficult, but please remember how much pleasure you bring to everyone with your stories. You have a wonderful gift and talent and it is appreciated. All the best, Donna
I, too, cannot wait to see "Julie & Julia". I just finished reading the book of the same name and simply loved it. I actually didn't realize that it was a memoir before I started it. Oops! But it really is inspirational and amazing that Julie's life changed so much but her Project. Life can change in an instant.
As for "The Next Food Network Star" I'm rooting for Melissa. I really like her personality and would love to watch her show.
AMEN, Jessica !!! And, welcome to the blog. The people on here are great, like long time friends!
I've read all of the books, and Magic Hour remains my favorite. I'm so glad you loved it too!
You're in for a treat if you're just discovering Kristin!
On another note - Kim, where are you? And, when can we get juicy details about your debut novel?
And, Kristin, any closer to sharing the Winter Garden cover? =)
Impatiently waiting,
lw
Lisa, you comments always make me smile!! I'm sorry I've been so quite lately--summer is just flying by in a blur. I can't believe tomorrow it will be August already!!! Where have the months gone?!?! Like the rest of the Fireflies, so much to do, so little time!!
As I think I've mentioned before, I'm not a big one for going to the theater--I usually wait for the DVD release. But Julie and Julia looks so utterly charming, I've told the hubby I want to see that one when it comes out. I wish it was out right now. We are experiencing a MAJOR heat wave here and sitting in a lovely air-conditioned theater for a few hours sounds like heaven!!!
As to my book--here's the latest news: I'm an Amazon woman! I feel so official. LOL The minute I found out it was listed on the amazon website, I had to call my mom, my sisters, my girlfriends, Kristin (of course!!), the hubby at work...I'm sure my squeals of excitement ruptured a few eardrums. :)
So, what is going on with all the other Fireflies?? I'm dying to hear. Since I'm stuck at home, carpooling kids here and there and everywhere and melting in this heat, please spill about all the exciting things happening in your lives!!
Kim
Kimberly,
You mentioned your book another time -- what is the title and what is it about? I'm relatively new to the firefly world, so if you've spoken about it before, I missed the discussion.
You have the heat in the northeast. I'm still waiting for summer. It has been chilly and wet in Ohio much of the summer. At least the grass is green.
Spent my day at the Dayton International Peace Museum. Dayton wants to be known as "the City of Peace." We even have a Peace Choir. I pitched Greg Mortenson's (Three Cups of Tea) "Pennies for Peace" project to the educational committee hoping they officially promote the curriculm this year to educators. If you haven't read the book, it a good read. For those of you with children, Greg has even written a reader for youth and a picture book for kids. He has a great website.
Keep cool!
Patricia
Hello fireflies!
Ok, I'm not as cheerful as that greeting suggests. The whole story with my friend who was in hospital due to a cerebral hemorrhage has really brought be down quite a bit. It's a long and pretty personal story, but the main thing is he's going to be ok. Well, I haven't even seen or heard him yet, but they tell me there's gonna be no consequences, so he's been lucky.
Other than that, I've been quite busy doing stuff for a Christmas concert I'm organizing. It's hard work, sometimes, but when ya get people who order lots of tickets cuz they liked it last time or when they write you a nice little note about how they're looking forward to it, it's quite rewarding too.
Finally - and the main reason why I wanted to write this little note today - I'm also getting ready to leave for Canada again! At the time I'm writing this, it's already Saturday in Belgium, so that means my vacation starts tomorrow! Still not too keen about the travelling part itself, but looking forward to spending three weeks with my best friend. It's like TullyAndKate time - the most wonderful thing for me to enjoy! So don't expect me back on this blog until the end of August. I'll be living in my own firefly world, for now! :)
Love,
Leen
Awesome on the Amazon news, Kim! Congratulations! Do you have a pen name or can I just go find you?
It's been a very mild summer here (except for the week of RWA when it was slightly cooler than the surface of the sun). Work has been busy, but next week should be a little lighter. The husband did get laid off this week so that's a little stressful (though luckily bought my August books and tickets to a Fall concert before so I have those to look forward to). Little Miss just learned how to climb up onto the couch and take her own pajamas off.
Best,
april
I found you, Kim. January release, right? How exciting! Nice title... can't wait to see a cover and/or description!
Patricia--
You're dead on about writing---especially the part about munching while you're supposedly writing. I tend to open the fridge a lot and just stare inside. I think I'm waiting for inspiration, and not looking in the best place to find it. :) Now you know why I have to run four miles a day. :)
Also, thanks for showing up on facebook! Would love to see that firefly card...
Kerry---
We'll find out tonight. It's kind of cool to think of several of us all watching the same show at the same time...
go Melissa!
Mona--
Moonstruck, of course!! Great reminder. I should really watch that again. One of my all time favorite scenes is when Cher smacks Nick across the face and says, "Snap out of it!" after he declares his love.
Classic choice. :)
April---
Cracking up at the image of Little miss with the remote and you too tired and lazy to fight for it. :)
LOVED the dancing video. What a doll.
Sad to hear that about The Ugly Truth. The reviews were bad, but in romcoms, you never know. Sometimes I love stuff the critics hate. I have to say that I did love Funny People. A disclaimer though: really, really raunchy humor. It also had a heartfelt story about a man coming to terms with the mistakes he's made in his life. If you liked Knocked up, you'll probably like Funny People
Jessica--
Welcome to the firefly blog! We're so glad to have you. I have said several times that little Alice from Magic Hour is one of my favorite characters of all time. My characters, that is. :)
Glad you enjoyed the book. Hope you stick around and tell us what else you're reading/doing.
Donna---
I've always wanted to visit Ct. Especially during the fall season. You'll have to describe it for us when the weather turns, so we can all pretend we're there...
Glad you've enjoyed the books!
Jaime---
Glad to hear the book is great, too. That means the movie has a real shot. And I adore Meryl and Amy.
Let us know what you think when you've seen it.
Lisa---
Your wish is my command. The Winter Garden cover is going up now. :) And thanks for asking about Kim's book. We'll have to talk her into putting up her beautiful cover. Check her out on Amazon!
Leen---
Travel safely, my friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with your friend also. I hope you have a little time on this vacation to sit by a lake or a pool or a river and relax. You sound stressed out, as so many of us are these days, and I wish for you some genuine peace and laughter on your vacation.
Leen,
I'm so sorry about your friend. What a relief to hear he is going to be okay. I'll keep him in my prayers. I hope your trip to Canada is full of fun and relaxation!
Yep, April--January release. I still can't believe it. And I'm so glad you like the title. My wonderful editor came up with Lake Magic. She's brilliant--what can I say?!? :)
Hi, Patricia. We love new Fireflies! Thank you for asking about my book. Kristin being Kristin (the NICEST, MOST generous person in the whole world--and the world's BEST boss!!!) keeps telling me to post something on the blog. Lake Magic will be out in January. Kristin is a true goddess and I will never be able to thank her enough for all that she's done for me!!!
Kim
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