Something new on the way
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Aloha everyone!
Well, here we are the end of the summer. It has been glorious in Seattle this year, with more golden sunshine than I can remember in ages. And now, as you know, I'm in my beloved Hawaiian Islands; I came over to speak to a big crowd of aspiring writers. As I've said before, it is so inspiring to me to talk to people who are just embarking on this journey. It takes such courage and passion to try something new. I always come away with some resolution of my own--to work harder or play harder or try something that scares me.
Surprisingly, this seems to be a year of changes for me. As you know, Firefly Lane was my first novel to roll over into trade; I discovered that I love blogging; I dared to venture into Facebook.com with a fansite and have found it to be a lot of fun; and my upcoming novel, Winter Garden is a real departure for me. But that's not all.
This month, I am involved in perhaps the biggest change--something brand new and exciting, and it all started with this blog. For the past few months, I've been working hard behind the scenes to put together a new program for all of us who stay connected on this blog. You inspired me. I can't yet tell you what it is (although you can guess if you want, and I'll tell you if you're getting warm). What I can say is this: our conversations in the past year have inspired me to tackled a project that I've wanted to do for a long time, and honestly, I think I was afraid to go it alone. But I have--hopefully--figured out a way to not be alone, to bring you all with me. So, thank you!
And that's all I'm going to say for now. :) How wicked of me, huh? Picture me grinning. It will all be revealed on the website on October 1. I hope you'll all check in and tell me what you think. Just remember, Fireflies, we're in this together.
Other than that, not much is going on over here in paradise. I got my critique partner's take on the first 300 pages of my book for 2011. Sigh. And I had thought it was pretty good. Turns out it was--pretty good. But not good enough. So I've been doing the hardest part of writing--thinking. Trying to work out the problems in the story and characterizations. It makes me a dang poor conversationalist at the dinner table. :) Thank goodness I can go to the beach to think. In a few days, though, I'll be back in Seattle. I can honestly say that I hope it's raining and gray. It's always easier to dive into work when the beach isn't calling my name...
What have you all been doing this summer? Like me, you've no doubt been reading voraciously. I've read The Help by Kathryn Stockett (loved loved loved it), The Book Thief (great idea, really different--a World War II novel narrated by Death), The Lost Symbol (should definitely satisfy Da Vinci fans), and a BUNCH of non fiction research for the w-i-p. (I think that's internet-speak for work in progress). Do you all have any more recommendations for me? And how about movies? I am totally out of the loop. I went to a ton in August, but I've missed everything since. I did LOVE District 9 and I can't wait to see Inglorious Basterds.
Thankfully, our fall TV line up is beginning. I've already been sucked in to Survivor and The Biggest Loser. I'm looking forward to Flash Forward and Fringe. Don't quite know how I feel about Ellen on Idol. What do you guys think?
Well, that's all the news that's fit to print right now. See you here on October 1! I can't wait to hear what you think of my new plan...
Aloha,
K
ps: the flowers are Plumeria---a gorgeous, scented flower that is used in lei making here in Hawaii. One of my favorites.
17 Comments:
Can't wait to see what the change is. October 1 will be here very quickly.
No recommendations here. I haven't been to a movie in quite some time. I've been Victoria Dahl, Susan Mallery kick. They were perfect vacation reads. I'm kind of in a slump now, but I picked up Stephen King's Just After Sunset to continue with my goal of working on the TBR list.
I still don't watch reality shows, but we added quite a few new ones to our rotation this season. We'll see what makes the final cut and which ones just get cut this week (though I normally give a show 3 episodes or so).
See you October 1!
April---
I bought Stephen King's book for my son this Christmas and I haven't had a chance to swipe it back and read it. :) And I have to say, this tv season won't be as fun without Prison Break, will it?
I recently saw Bright Star - the story of romantic poet John Keats - it took me about a week afterwards to decide that I did, indeed, like it!
Survivor - love the show, and already have decided who i don't like.
Biggest Loser - oops - did it start already and I missed it? I'll plunge right in this week!
Amazing Race is starting back soon - totally love that show!
I am 100% into Mad Men and highly recommend it!
Ellen on American Idol - what the heck is that all about?? Until I see it, I cannot make sense of it.
Dancing With The Stars - I'm sure I'll be getting caught up in that one again too!
My husband rolls his eyes when all of my "shows" roll around. Thank goodness for DVR!
Just finished reading "How Starbucks Changed My Life" - quick read, and very good! Really allows you to look at things from a different perspective!
"Other than that, not much is going on over here in paradise." That line totally cracked me up!!! It's paradise! What more do you need??? Haha - just kidding!
Yvonne---
My husband does the exact same eye roll at the programs I watch. And I totally agree about the DVR. If not for that, i wouldn't be able to be such a pop culture junkie. :) Not sure that would be such a bad thing all the way around.
You're right, btw; it's the nothing going on that MAKES it paradise. Well...that and the beach and the sound of the surf and the sunny days... :)
This summer has been like the last 4 summers - the focus has been on renovations. I think we have one more summer and then we can actually take a vacation. :)
I've been reading a lot of Urban Fantasy and paranormal romance. Lynn Viehl, Marjorie Liu, Vicki Petterssen, Rachel Vincent, Nalini Singh, Shannon K. Butcher. I'm ready to move toward some romance or relationship stories and really should read through my TBR (200+ books) rather than buy new. I will pick up Diana Gabaldon's new book next week, though. Can't wait for more Jamie Fraser!
I haven't seen a new release in a long time. We did finally watch Star Trek a few weeks ago at a second run theater in town. Loved! It!
No reality TV but I'm excited for Glee, Castle, Supernatural and Dollhouse. Oh, and a few others. :)
Looking forward to October 1!
Kristin,
Yes, you are wicked...
My sense is that whatever you've been planning may be linked to some type of group service -- that relates to a conversation we previously had.
But, have also wondered about your launching live webcasts or on-line chats where we can all join in and talk.
Am half way through Brown's "The Lost Symbol." It is an interesting read for me because I'm an esotercist and have studied 23 years. It is a thriller to read. And, so far I can't put it down.
Will keep my mind open about Ellen.
Went to a wonderful charity event "Rwandan Fete" at the Columbus Zoo last night that raised $150,000 for conservation and humanitarian programs in Rwanda. The stories of survival of the human spirit were incredible. A woman who sat with us at dinner lost her entire family -- they were shot and buried. She had blacked out and was buried alive in a mass grave. She dug her way out and ran into the woods. She now is married and her husband is in law school in Columbus, they have two children, and she is a social worker. Heard incredible stories -- but also enjoyed wonderful music, and beautiful artisan work. Jack Hannah (famous zoo keeper) was there talking about his program to save apes in Rwanda. Stimulating evening.
Will look forward to hearing your new plan!
Yvonne, I love Mad Men! I did not watch last night so I could watch Mad Men win 2 awards at the Emmys though.
My first time posting but I visit your site and blog often. I LOVE your books and have been a fan for years.
I have a book recommendation --TRAVELING WITH POMGRANATES: A MOTHER - DAUGHTER STORY by Sue Monk Kidd and Ann Kidd Taylor. I just finished this book and LOVED it. I couldn't put it down. I also love Sue Monk Kidd's THE DANCE OF THE DISSEDENT DAUGHTER.
I can't wait for your new release and the new development on the website!
tina
My guess is you are doing the Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk, and we can all sponsor and be your best Firefly Cheerleaders !!?? Am I warm?
Anything you are taking on, while keeping all of us in thought, is a winner in my book! We are a great group of cyber friends !!
I finished South of Broad (Pat Conroy). Loved it. Am reading The Last Song (Nicholas Sparks), and picked up Jacquelyn's new book yesterday.
Haven't seen any movies lately, but there are several out that interest me. I need to get out and do that!
Tata for now .... Lisa
Hi Kristin and all:
Just have to tell you about two books that I recently read which were absolutely great - A Big Little Life by Dean Koontz. It is a memoir of his golden retreiver Trixie and of his life. Dean's books are amazing and this book gives you an insight into his own life of writing and how his dog affected him. Just a great book for animal lovers and also lovers of writers. The other book is The House at Sugar Beach by Helene Cooper - you may have already read this one but it is a memoir of growing up in Liberia and is an amazing story. Both books were very emotional reads for me. I was lucky enough to be able to read them at the beach alone so that no one could notice my tears. Looking forward to what you have planned for us on the blog. I know it will be something fun! Regards, Donna
Lisa,
I think you're on to something -- it's about women and something fireflies could support. I have just felt it had something to do with a service we could all support -- breast cancer would be a great cause.
Patricia
I recently finished, "Sarah's Key". It was a great book. It's haunting...I still keep thinking about it. Can't wait to discuss it at bookclub tonight. My other group read "The Handmaid's Tale"..it's an older book, but sparks lots of conversations. I also just finished Sandra Dallas' "Tallgrass." I love her books, their easy reads and Historical Fiction, one of my favorie genres. My recommendation is "These is My Words" by Nancy Turner, everyone I know who has read it loved it.
The next one on my list is "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo."
I just might continue to watch Idol with Ellen on. I think it's a brilliant choice, what can she say musically, but really who cares, we (the public) like who we like, right? Who cares if they are a little "pitchy."
Kristin~ I am so excited for your next book! I can't wait to read one that takes place in Central/E. Washington.
I so out of the loop on movies, but my hubby and I rented a great one starring Harry Conick, Jr. as a doctor developing a treatment for breast cancer. It was a great movie, but I can't remember the name of it.
Hi Kristin, this is my first time to post, although I have posted on your FB fan page and you responded, I was so thrilled! Since I've read most of your books, I now have to find other things to read. I have picked up several books simply because there was a recommendation from you on the cover. I recently finished the Carson Springs series by Eileen Goudge, which I really enjoyed. A couple of weeks ago I went to see Julie & Julia with a friend and loved it. And, as for TV, my current obsession is Drop Dead Diva. It's a really cute show that I think many women can relate to regardless of their size. Although the premise is related to body image, it's really all about being comfortable with yourself. I am anxiously awaiting Winter Garden and whatever else you have in store for us.
Allison
Allison,
My mom LOVES Drop Dead Diva. The duo of Drop Dead Diva and Army Wives thrills her to no end.
I totally agree that Prison Break will truely be missed. But I did see Scofield (don't know real name) on L&O: SVU and Teabag is on Heroes again.
My husband and I have a whole set of shows we like to watch. 90210, Melrose Place, Fringe, L&O, L&O: SVU, FlashForrward, Cold Case, House, Smallville, The Good Wife, Heroes, CSI:Miami. Don't tell my husband I told you this, but the first two (90210 and Melrose Place) are watched mainly by him. LOL. He's such a girl sometimes.
Kristin, I have been reading Kristin Hannah this summer and have become a huge fan! I wanted to thank you for bringing me back to the love of reading. I have 4 children and did not take the time to read anything more than a recipe for quite some time! With two of the kids now out of the house I have returned to reading with a vengeance, thanks to you! I love the strong female friendships you write about. I have had the same two BFF's for 35 years and count my blessings with those two gals at the top. Someone once told me that friends will be sympathetic with you when you have sorrows. But a true BEST friend will be sincerely happy for you when you have success. I firmly believe this. Anyway, thank you for the great reading. I am quickly going through all of your books.
Also, you must watch Amazing Race. It is one of the best!
Maby I will try this blog,and hope for the best.Have had a long summer,but things are settling down now-I hope.See you are busy always,and keep track of you on face bookLove the cover on your new book,and can hardley wait.We took a short holiday down the coast,and yes we stayed on your wonderful bainbridge island,and golfed at port townsend,I love the whole area.I found a new author this summer--new to me.Her name is Thrity Umrigan,and I have read all her books.The one I loved best is called The Space Between Us.Have done a lot of reading this summer.Plan to make Harry Potter my winter project,think I am the only one in Canada who has not read them.Breast Cancer walk this weekend--hope it does not rain.Wonder what you are up to in Oct.guess we have to wait.Hope all the family is well.Happy Birthday a little late.We had our 50th on the same day.
Big Hugs
Sharon
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