We interrupt this unscheduled break for an actual post

[fandoria]

So I did not plan to go a week and a half without posting (aside from my shameless plug/contest entry for Linger.  Oh man, do I hope I win!!!) but trust me when I say that you really did not want to be privy to my thoughts for the past week.  Really, my silence was a show of mercy.  Let's just say that I've been struggling with some self-esteem

Comments

[olmue]

That commercial thing is exactly why we don't own a television anymore.

[fandoria]

Yeah, it's awful the way they target kids. Yesterday, after we finished shopping, T asked me why there's so many toys and stuff for kids at the store. I told him it's because businesses know that kids will ask for anything and many parents don't know how to tell their kids no and will buy them all sorts of crap they don't need and the businesses make lots of money. I then said that I'm not like those parents. I have no problem saying no and sticking to it. To which he said, "Yeah, you're pretty mean. You never let me have anything." A discussion about why you can't always get everything you want followed, but apparently it didn't stick, if the commercials today were any indication.

[music_lover3]

I never paid any attention to commercials. I always thought they were rather boring. I just read or do something else during them instead.

Good luck with the writing! Trying new methods certainly can't hurt.

[fandoria]

I tend to do the same thing during commercials. But my six-year-old eats them up.

[tracy_d74]

I'm glad you have come out of the dark and into the light. I've been in that place of self-exile. I loathe it.

Great link. Who knew? It does make me nervous about my first book, that I have shelved for a little while. I had just started draft 5 when my frustrations and insecurities got the better of me. My betas are all in an uproar. But it was either take a break or delete 80,000 words because I was convinced the story now sucked and all my betas were awful liars.

[fandoria]

I went through so many drafts of Wayworn, my first, that I lost count about two years ago. I was always embarrassed that it took me 5 1/2 years to write it. But now, I think about how it was my first book. I needed to learn how to write and then I needed to learn my story and characters. That of course, took several drafts. And then once I did that, all I had to do was start from scratch, write it again, then revise a couple of times and I was happy with it. That part only took me 2 years. Not bad, considering the length of the book.

But then, I started thinking that if I couldn't write my next book in fewer drafts then it meant I hadn't become a better writer after all. What a silly thought. Everyone goes through at least a couple of drafts on their books. There's nothing wrong with that. And reading that link definitely helped me feel better about my process and gave me added courage to just let go and write for my first draft.

[tracy_d74]

Yes, it seems most people go through at least 3-4 drafts.

[fandoria]

Oh that book had at least 20 drafts. At least.

[meredith_wood]

I believe there's a time to second guess everything you write and pounding out the first draft isn't it. Even though you know I do it. :-( You also know I don't want to and wish to stop.

Man, I'd just die without my TV. :-) We usually just fast-forward through all the commercials. For some reason my kids have never bothered me about toys and things they see on TV. I'm counting my blessings about that right now.

I'm sorry last week was so horrible for you. *hugs* But I'm very glad to have you back. I missed you horribly!

[fandoria]

Yeah I'd like to go on thinking Dreamwalker is the most awesome book ever for a little while longer. ;)

That TV rule doesn't apply to me and Chriss. Only to T. But then again, Chriss and I hardly watch TV at all. We've got like 4 shows we watch and that's it. Otherwise we're busy with other stuff or watch movies on netflix instead.

[meredith_wood]

My kids spend a lot of time on their computers, though they do stay outside playing (6& 9 yr olds) or hanging out (13 yr old). I usually have to make them come in at dark.

[mela_lyn]

Ok, first, self-esteem stuff... from what I've read of your work, you're a great writer and I do not doubt I'll see you published. In fact, I'll be first in line to buy copies!! AND you're a great mom. T is fun and smart and so well taken care of... so, yeah. For what it's worth, I think you're faboo and I'm glad your my friend. :) Just wish you lived closer. *sigh*

Second... love the TV rule. My cousin does something similar. Since hers aren't in school yet, they get an hour a day, usually 30 min before naps and 30 min before bed. Which is cool.

Oh, and my niece is just like T when it comes to commercials. The best was when they HAD to have Snuggies (or whatever they are called) and my sister 'capitulated'... she turned Ella's robe backwards and Ella was estatic!! :)

*sending hugs*

[fandoria]

Thanks, Missy! You're so sweet. I wish we lived closer too.

I'm loving the TV rule, even though it does come with much whining on T's part. Although, in all honestly, I definitely couldn't have instituted it a few years ago. It was my lifeline for getting stuff done. Thankfully he's old enough to entertain himself w/o it.