Revisiting old school . . .

For those who read my blog, you may recall that I definitely lean toward being old-school when it comes to certain things - in particular the electronic reading devices also known as e-books or digital books.

I will always love the feel of a book in my hands. I joke about being borderline obsessive-compulsive, and when I have a new book to read you would see what I mean! While dust covers are an attractive addition and do help protect the actual book cover, I tend to take it off- at least initially- to examine the cover. I look at the color, the texture and how the wording has been embossed or printed. I continue my examination of how the book is put together, feeling the paper used, and the edging on the pages. Sometimes- I even peek at the ending!

There are different smells on books, too. Could be a new smell, or perhaps a distinctive smell of a paper-type. Old books tend to have a distinct smell, too. It is a total experience, beginning long before the reading. I don't think I can have the same experience with an electronic device. There is no substitute for the real thing....

But - my interest has been piqued recently. There was the news that the devices are outselling actual books at some sources. Not long after reading that, I actually looked at information for one of the models- can you believe it??? Well, what caught my eye was the claim that the device can hold 100 books! That is impressive, even I must say! When I have the chance to read, I tend to go through a book quickly and then want more- so having 100 digital books at hand would be great!

Don't expect a quick convert though. I am not entirely convinced that the experience will be as pleasing reading a book on a "device". But, I will be doing more research, no doubt.

I cannot believe though that hard copy books will ever totally disappear. After all, how would an author sign the latest release?

Secrets One - The Series

The power of words . . .

Have you ever thought about the power of words? Obviously, life would be very different without words. I know my life would be very sad if I did not have the pleasure of reading and writing. As far as life in general, can you imagine going back to drawing on the cave walls?

The mere fact that we have the gift of words is powerful, of course. If you don't think so, ask a stroke victim or someone who has a brain injury and cannot speak or even write the words that the loved ones long to hear. I also think of several families in my area who have recently lost sons and daughters in both tragic accidents and senseless violence. I am sure those parents would love to hear the words "Mom" and "Dad" one more time.

What words we use, and how we use them can also be powerful. This was brought to mind recently on my birthday. I was talking to someone about attitudes toward age, which reminded me of a newspaper column that I had written when I turned 30- at the time, a very traumatic birthday for me. In the column, I explored the difference between getting old and older. See the difference in those words- old and older? We all get older- that begins the very second a child is born. But, we each have a choice in getting old. What a difference in those words- and state of mind. My words seemed to strike a cord with many people, if the comments I received were any indication.

Another "aha moment" came courtesy of my great niece. I had commented to her about some words of wisdom she had shared, and part of her reply was, "Love you". Oh my goodness, you would not believe the smile those two little words put on my face- and even now as I write about it.

How we use words in our lives can make a world of difference to others. Are our words uplifting or hurtful? For me personally, I have decided to make a conscious effort to try to stay positive in thoughts and words, and to tell people that I care about them.

As a writer, my use of words is very important in conveying an idea or storyline. It was a challenge I willingly enjoyed as a journalist, and continue to treasure as an author of fiction. With my use of words, I can lead readers to a new experience- open a door to escape everyday thoughts or worries, even for a short a time.

So enjoy your words, and use them wisely. And remember to say, "I love you," often.

Secrets One - The Series

Loving the art . . .

As I sit here watching the Tony awards, the broad scope of writing is again brought home to me. It happens when I watch the Tonys, the Oscars, the Emmys...It is that feeling of awe that comes over me, realizing the true scope of writing a novel or radio script/screenplay.

As many of you know, my background is in journalism. Writing for newspapers for many years, I know what it feels like to have my work in print and read by many. I have delivered important news and announcements; I have been honored to write feature stories about people, places or events, and to know that those stories have made a difference. In other words, being known as a writer is nothing new.

Of course, now being a published author of Secrets One - The Series is extremely exciting! Holding a hard cover book that I had a part in writing is truly a privilege and a dream come true. The excitement continues as my co-author and I write the radio script for Bloodline Confidential – Part One. The thought of someone taking the words we write to interpret and speak them to a much broader audience just blows me away!!! To hear the words spoken by talented voice actors- and the story come to life- is incredible!

Whether I am writing the news of the day, an opinion piece, a feature story about an interesting person, or a fictional novel, the art of writing is both a joyful satisfaction and a serious undertaking. I sometimes joke about being borderline obsessive-compulsive with my writing. Well- it might be more fact than joking, and maybe more than borderline! Laughs! I love the art, and I want anything I produce to be as perfect as possible, to be true to the art one might say. As a spiritual person, I also strive to do all things as unto the Lord.

With all this considered, it is especially important to me to produce the best work possible for those performers to speak and act. And I know that I am so incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to work in an art that I absolutely love.

Do I believe that one day my co-author and I will be mentioned at one of those award shows? Absolutely! Hope you are watching!

Secrets One - The Series