So, last Friday I faced a group of 5th grade students to talk to them about the reality of being a writer. In the class was my youngest daughter.I went into the class knowing full well that what was at stake wasn't my future, but hers.  If I nailed it, made it interesting and fun, … Continue reading One of the best feelings I’ve ever had

Before I get started this morning, a couple of quick announcements!  My contest is still going on FB!  I'm up to 132 likes, and have given away my first book.  Go visit the site, hit like, and maybe you'll be next!  http://www.facebook.com/pages/KateMarie-Collins/217255151699492?ref=hlThe second announcement is that Solstice has a new website!  It's sleek, professional, and … Continue reading When it’s okay to stop a stranger in the store

Did anyone catch the moment on Wednesday last week?  Where the stars aligned, the calendar page turned, and school began again here?  Where for a few brief moments I reveled in the quiet.  Then, I cranked the stereo and did some editing work!  The house is mine again, and I'm loving it. Don't get me … Continue reading School’s back, and I’m ready to get to work!

Well, it happened.  Twice.  Last week, I was recognized by two separate people from the article in the local newspaper.One was another parent at the Lego Camp my youngest daughter was going to.  She looked at me a bit askance the first day, then asked where she knew me from the next day.  It seems … Continue reading Well, it happened

Well, I survived my first signing/reading event.  It wasn't a huge affair, and I'm fine with that.  It takes time to develop a following, cultivate a fan base where people will put you on the calendar as an event in their lives.I met this wonderful gentleman by the name of Josh, who interviewed me for … Continue reading Moving forward

Well, it's out.  My local paper had my face in it.  There's a stack of them on our table, waiting to be handed out or mailed to friends and family.Still not sure if I'm ready to have people recognize me in the stores, but too late for that now.  A writing friend, Tony, has advised … Continue reading A good way to start the day

Hello!Well, we survived vacation.  Though I'm not sure I want to drive my van much this week.  I've sat in it enough lately!The newspaper article hasn't come out yet.  Newest update I had was this Friday (8/24).  I keep hoping!It's been an interesting week already, and I'm doing some deep breathing and centering so I … Continue reading Time to go back to work!

I posted something the other day to my online writing group.  While some of the references are specific to the group, I had numerous people thank me for saying this.  So, I'm sharing with more of you.  Here's hoping you take something good away as well.Submitting any writing is a nerve wracking experience.  Whether it's … Continue reading To Submit or Not to Submit

No, it's not a week where I'm in between projects.  Hope that it will be soon, but not yet!  It's a week between trips.Last weekend, we visited my parents on the other side of the state.  It's very warm there in the summer, which I don't miss.  Came home to even more warm here, which … Continue reading The week of In Between