Home

I tried to jot down my thoughts and feelings in this post.   As I've mentioned before, this is my scratch pad.  A chance for me to practice writing, but I never said it would be all fun and games.  There's always the rough stuff to write.  I have rough stuff to write in my books.  Yes -- books... with an "s".  I need more time to write!

And among all of the above, I'm dealing with a few of my own irritating demons.  When they rear their heads, I say "Down, damn you!"   They sometimes listen and other times don't.  Never fun.

Yet, Perry Como sings "There's no place like home for the holidays... For no matter where you roam..."  Dorothy says "There's no place like home..."   There's even old proverbs that go "People long to be at home" and "Your home is whatever place you long to be."
 
I hear the words, but sometimes I don't feel them.  Sometimes, I just can't seem to put my hands on it.  I'm holding items from that home, but they don't move... or cry... or laugh... You can hug them, but they don't hug back.

That's because home is a feeling. It's where I feel safe, comfort, and loved.   Mementos only remind you of those past days and places.  Of birthdays, Christmases, hugs and kisses...

Home can be a physical place.   Where I watch TV, read, write, sleep, and eat... It's my new place as the old place fades.  When the physical place is almost gone, I have struggled, feeling alone in the dark, trying to find it.   The place has to be nurtured, cultivated, and feed in order to make it a new home.   I have weakened mine.   Allowing it to wither, struggling for life, letting the pulse slow.  But, I know it still has life.

****
The other day I struck up a conversation with my heart.  My uninvited mind joined in.  

"Move away," I said.  "Find a new place."

"No, no you must stay," said my heart.  "You can't take it all with you and what you leave behind will only morph into a new set of irritations, agonies, and superstitions.  And there we create new problems."

"No, I need to move away," I said.  "Find a new place."
 
"Why?" said my heart.  "Do you think it will be better?

My mind rolled its eyes.  "Listen, if you want to, just move.  Don't listen to the old ticker."

My heart rebuffed.  "Stop listening to your mind and listen to me.  Why do you want to leave?"

"So I can find someplace to call home."

"Is that what you are really looking for?  Or are you just running away?"  My heart asked.

"Stupid heart," said my mind.  "Why would you ask that?  There's no home here anymore.  In the new home, there can be a new sense of hope, new adventures, new... new... new..."

"Is there?"  My heart tugged at me.  "Is it that there is no home or has it become stagnant, decayed, and blistered?  How long would it be until the new home meets the same fate?  If the old one has some life, you can water it, watch it bloom again, and journey into a new phase."

I had to ponder a moment.   What a conflict.   The old phrase "Hope springs eternal" jumps about.  I knew the correct answers.

*****

This time of year, this Christmas Season, I am reminded of a physical home.   An actual place that will soon be gone.  Along with an era.  Closing.  Only moments in time.   With burial, goes the last of the former home.  I can't deny that.

I can only stand and look at the footsteps left on the road behind me.   It will become an impassable route.   A bridge burnt by its own hand.  I tell myself "Don't look back, just remember."  Now, I evaluate where you are and how you got here and adjust.  I hate the change.  I hate the loss.

I can only hate so long, before I have to return to the journey.  There's nothing wrong with pause.  It's only wrong if I pause and move forward without learning.

I watched a great film called Big Eden.  It's about a guy whose seeking something that he can't find.   He finds what he was looking for without even seeing it.   It just comes to him.  Grace Cornwell played by the lovely Louise Fletcher has this great line.  She's talking to Henry, the main character --

Listen, you know what they say when you get lost in the woods? If you stay put, stay in one place and don't wander, they'll find you. And I was just hoping you'd let yourself be found this time. I was hoping you'd let us find you. But you keep wandering and we can't.

I had a similar piece of advice from friend, Jim Kyle --

It's not whether you're looking, it's whether you're out there to be found.

I know my choices.  I know the answer.   Let This Christmas Season roll on.  I can't stop the inevitable, but I can control the evitable.

Wow.  Did I just write all of that?
CSM

This Christmas Season

"When it rains, it pours." I have mentioned that to my sister before. Her response -- "We don't have rain storms, this family has hurricanes." So true.

I've been slow on the blogging this month. First, I've been busy with my holiday traditions. To the Phoenix Theater with my friend Lois to see their annual Christmas show. Loved it! Loved it! To Theatre on the Square with my friend Joe and his friends The Mikes. Guys -- I think we should do something different next year. Just sayin'.

Onto the Indianapolis Men's Chorus to see Joe perform. I saw a couple of good friends -- Kathy and Elizabeth. This year's concert was wonderful. Great job! Joe -- you need to project a little -- no, just kidding. You were fine. And you weren't the only one that was fine...

Meanwhile, among the festiveness, I've dealt with a father whose lost 40 lbs. in just over two months. I've watched him age fast. I'm reminded of my mother and how she seemed to age over night. He's got kidney failure, congestive heart failure, diabetes, high blood pressure... The guy didn't get the best warehouse to work with this round. Hopefully, when he moves on, they'll give him something better.

I just can't help but feel scared and sad. You never think your parents will die. They should live on and on and on. And in a sense, they do. It's not a final parting. It's a temporary separation. Someday, we'll shake hands again. There be no fear of the past or secrets.

CSM

New Directions... No, I don't mean the boy band.

With the changing of my blog address, I already feel like I am now on my way down a whole new path.   I have lived with The Fingerprint of Jack for two and half years.   Now, I near completion of the last round of editing.  The cover will be unveiled hopefully next week.

It's been a two year project.   It's time to move onto the next one.

Cleo and Edgar:  A Time Savers Club Adventure is the title of book two.   I had no issue finding names for the first two books, but book three of the trilogy has yet to provide me with its name.

Keep watching for more chapters, materials from The Time Savers Club archives, and who knows what else on my other blog.

Watch this blog for my shameless self-promotion, short stories, and who knows what else.

Also, I just found a sci-fi writer by the name Christopher Marshall who lives in Ohio.  Guess I'll have to go by Christopher S. Marshall.   Sorry other Christopher Marshall -- I would prefer the credit for my book.  I suspect that you would prefer your credits as well.
CSM

Official Notice

Hey everyone

I am officially changing the web address of this blog from -- http://fingerprintofjack.blogspot.com/ -- to http://christophermarshallwriter.blogspot.com.

Since I am now moving onto other projects, like book two and three, plus other short stories, and then there's that other novel unrelated to anything I've scratched out so far...

So many words, plots, ideas, characters all jumping around in my head!  I may go crazy!

Yours

CSM

My First Writers Conference

Last Saturday, I attended my first writers conference sponsored by the Writers Center of Indiana.  "The Gathering of Writers" at Indiana Landmarks Center proved to be well worth the money.   I enjoyed my chosen sessions -- all on fiction. 

Melissa Fraterrigo's session focused on effective openings that captured the reader's imagination.  Sarah Layden led us through exercises and discussions on "mapping fictional places and spaces."  And last, but not least, Ben Wintes gave "a fast-and-furious, down-and-dirty lesson" on plotting and structure.  I am still in awe of all three!

OK, this will sound very strange!  I learned nothing, but learned an amazing amount about writing.  Here's what I took away from listening to these three generous writers --

You are the producer, the director, the set-designer, the costumer, the actor, the actress, the screenwriter...  It's yours totally to own.  No one can take it away.

You take common (and not-so common) words turn them into any sized story you want.  Treat it like silly putty and stretch it any direction you want, into any space or time, and create characters who can be simple or complex.

You take your reader by the hand and say "Hey... Come with me and you'll be in a world of pure imagination."  (Thank you, Gene Wilder's Willie Wonka!)   Be it down the river, up the mountain, through the woods, under the earth, up to the moon or beyond.   Anywhere.

You have the ability to escape and take a few readers with you.

I just have to remember that it's a rough road filled with patience, perseverance, tough choices, tears, fears, laughter, and simple joy.

Now, when's the next conference?  I'm ready!

 

A Hard Road to Travel -- Part 8

April 9

Indianapolis

Dear sis,
Wow!  How about the dr fees!  We had the same thing here for a while.  They are now controlled by the Mayor and Council.  Lots of complaints by the drs, but way too many by the public.   Dr. Karkus, the one I work for, sat a fair system from the beginning, but others were gouging.  By the way, I found out they've got you a plot next to ours at the garden.
Now for the interesting news --  Harry took a field trip with a group of student engineers from IU.  They went west to the Mississippi lakes then down to the gulf.  He was gone for about 10 days.  They went to Memphis.   He said there's a lot of damage.  They were supposed to go on down to Winona in Mississippi, but they've blocked off the area, said the ground was too unstable.   He did bring back a new map showing what the country looks like from space.   If you've got a good road atlas, US 70 marks the north line for the most part, Interstate 65 for the east, and highway 83 to the west -- that whole area is now underwater.  Looks like Mexico got hit bad too.  He also found out the Panama Canal is gone and the continents are now separated by about 20 miles.
Gotta stop for now.  Will send more info later. Now it's off to community meeting.

Love Sal

*****

April

Keene, NH

Dear Sal

That's a lot of interesting stuff.  Did you hear about Hawaii?  Rumor has two of the islands now connection and they each have gotten bigger.    I also heard part of India is gone as well.   I find all of this fascinating.   Of course, it's not happening to us.   It would be different if it happened to us personally.  
We got our gas ration approved.  Now, we start planning.  Bert says we can ship most of our stuff on the train.   It will be cheaper and save on the gas.   Mama and the kids can take it as well.  Their fares are cheap and it would save them the long trip.   The train is a little quicker.   We have to do what we can to save gas.  Anyway, it's a short letter.   Will write more very soon.

Love ya
M

My Inner Critic

Without criticism, how does a writer grow?  

Critics may sting or bite or even snarl, but I believe they provide you with better insight into your writing.  Publishing houses can do the same.  Although, I do keep in mind that J. K. Rowling's first book was passed on by several publishers.  Gee, I wonder if they made as much money with their chosen books to publish as she did writing book seven?  

My fear spins around an unseen critic.   The one hiding deep inside my mind.  I hear the jerk's words...  "You're a nobody.  Who cares about your stupid book?  Or writing?  Or blog?"

Maybe it's doubt I hear and not the inner critic.

As for the exterior critic, the one who reads your book, dishes about the flat cardboard character, the thin plot, the poor structures.  Why should I care about them?   They may or may not help me improve my techniques, character development, fuller plot, better writing.  Or maybe, most of all, I want to hear from them because I'm a sadist.

Sometimes, I have the pleasure of sitting at the library's reference desk in the fiction area.   As I scan the great sea of fiction titles filling the shelves, I cannot help but think "I can do this."

I've learned it is important to practice, patience, and perseverance.  Putting words on paper, then edit, then edit again.   Read.   Read again.  Read as a writer.   Read as a reader.  Study the words, the structures, the plots, the characters.   How are they intertwined?   What is memorable?

No matter what, just keep writing.

CSM

Writing Space

From the "learn-it-the-hard-way" method, I discovered that writing spaces are important.   The area must be comfortable, clean, clear of clutter, and away from distractions.

As I look at mine, I can check off that my space is...  Well, none of the above.   I have an uncomfortable chair, a kid-sized desk from the 1930s, a nick-knacks from travels, wee piles of scrap paper with notes, and dust.

Yet, somehow I managed to fill a 127 pages (8 1/2 by 11) with a trifle over 47,000 words to form the first part of a larger story.

Often I longed for comfort.   So, I set myself a new goal.  Get a comfortable chair and a bigger desk, dust more frequently, and clear a portion of the clutter.  The nick-knacks have to stay.  Those momentos of my travels remind me of the more important things in life.  Keep traveling.  They also inspire me with ideas for plots, "what if" moments, and character development.

CSM

A Hard Road to Travel -- Part 7

Back to short story writing.  Being in between books allows me to rest from the big story and focus on little stories.

As you may recall, the last letter from the last letter from Marianne to her sister Sally in Keene, New Hampshire left us hanging...  Here it is to help you get caught up and a couple of new letters.

March 25

Keene, New Hampshire

Dear Sal

Good to hear all is well.  Snow is melting here.   The temps have gotten up into the 50s and plenty of sunshine.   Great news -- we heard about our applications.  They have been approved for us to move there.   It will not be until May.   We broke the news to Mama and she is very excited.   She will be glad to be back in Indy.   Let us know about the apartment situation there.  Our next hoop will be applying for gas.  I wished we would have bought one of the electric cars when we had the chance.  Oh well.

Anyway, gotta go. 

Love Marianne


*****

April 2

Indianapolis

Dear Marianne

Great news to hear!   We will scout out an apartment for you. The one we had here was rented.  There's a nice apt. building on the next street over.  Very reasonable and secure.  Will keep in touch about it.   Bert knows the landlord well.  For the most part, the landlords live in the buildings anymore.  Bert talked to the coop head and they will plot a spot for you in the community garden as soon as we know you will be here.  We can go ahead and plant some stuff for you.   You can stay with us for a few days when you arrive, so don't fret.  I know you will.    We continue to have gas rationing.   Bert says we may have to break down and get some more solar panels made.   The supplier just got more materials for self-building.   Let Mama know we will have a room for her if she wants to live with us awhile.

Keep in touch.
Love
Sal

*****

April 5

Keene

Dear Sal,

Mama says she'd like to live with you a while.  She's started packing and we just submitted our request for gas.   Do you remember our neighbor Judy with the broken wrist?  The doctor charged her $20 and two years of house-keeping.  Well, as it turns out, he died last week -- so no housekeeping for him.   She asked if she had to pay the rest to the estate.  The doctor's lawyer said no.  Well, during that conversation, he mentioned the state was reviewing all the medical system and were studying Canada's.   From last I heard, they are organizing something similar.   Doctors here are throwing a fit.  Serve em right.  Sorry, I know you're a nurse, but I just can't imagine.  Apparently, there's been doctors charging up to $4000 to do simple stuff.

Well, gotta go.
Love
M

Thoughts on Being a Writer

While staring out into space, dreaming of a better life as a writer, I ask myself several questions.   I am going to address each of these over the next few weeks as I wrestle with the answers.

1. What is the point of this blog?
2. What is my mission as a writer? 
3. What do I want out of it?
4. Where do I see myself in ten years?
5. How do I handle criticism?
6. How do I handle jealousy and envy of other authors?

1)  First, this blog allows me to practice writing.  I've reached a point where I am not as concerned about it being for the general populace (like my other blog) as I am using it as a scratch pad for my personal thoughts, a written diary I can use to reflect on where I have been and where I am going.   

Also as a place to practice editing... just look at that previous sentence!  Here's my edited version of the sentence above:  First, this blog serves as a scratch pad to practice writing, editing, and as a diary of my journey to where I am and where I'm going.  (Better, eh?)

2)  What is my mission?
Much like an artist statement, I need to a purpose.

My mission is simple -- to create interesting stories, to write engaging books.

I discovered writing at a young age.  My first book, The Loch Ness Monster, was a first edition with only one printing.  A handwritten, hand illustrated booklet on my findings after reading a book about the topic purchased at a used books store.   Alas, the only copy has been lost, possibly off-gassing in a landfill.   My second fictional work, also a single copy first edition, meet the same fate.

Once again, and thirty-five year later with life experience under my belt, I have returned to this lost dream.

Reviews, anyone?

I would love to hear what you think about my first book.   Here's the place to do it.   You can write comments by clicking on the "comments" link. 

Don't worry about hurting my feelings.    I would prefer to hear your questions, comments, and/or concerns.  Otherwise, I wouldn't grow as a writer.

I've already noted a couple of errors on the title page (it should read A Time Savers Club Adventure) as well as on the copyright page (I have my old pen name listed). 

One reader pointed out that I have a time issue in the first chapter.  Is it October or January?   That has been corrected with one addition to the last sentence --  "The story actually begins..."

CSM

What I've learned along the way

Four years ago, this month, I laid in bed wondering where I wanted my life to go.  The lack of creativity in my life made me re-evaluate my current path at the time.

Now, with my first book, I look back and realize what a trip it has been.

First, I wrote, regardless of my lack of self-trust.   My first draft was no more than a few paragraphs with weak characters and a thin plot.  I questioned my abilities and craftsmanship.   I had no formal training as a writer and no idea how the whole process worked.  At first, I decided on a single volume, but then the story grew, the cast of players expanded, and an entire sub-plot popped, then blossomed.  From there...

Second, my confidence grew.  The paragraphs, dialogue, descriptions formed into pages and chapters.  The story flowed together.  I began a self-structured coursework of reading about writing. 

1. Stephen King's On Writing topped the list.  The best of the bunch.   King writes his autobiography, then provides a "writer's toolbox," and last, provide the basics in "look here's how to write" section.
2. Anne Lamott's Bird By Bird offered a look at a writer's life.
3. William Noble Show, Don't Tell: A Writer's Guide offers numerous ways of showing and telling.  The infamous "show, don't tell" haunts writers like naked pictures of the prince taunting the queen.  To this moment, I struggle with "show, don't tell."   What does it mean?   How much do I do?  Do I show everything?  
4. Roy Peter Clark's Writing Tools: 50 Essential Strategies for Every Writer.  Love it!  Clark gets to the point in each chapter.

Third, I struggled with the actual writing.   Discipline!   I disciplines myself to write as the same time as many days possible.  I found that from 7:30 p.m. to 10ish p.m. to be the perfect time.  I found my creative peak to be the highest.

Forth, I read.  Fiction -- kids and adult.   Most of the time, I would read only a few chapters.   My mission involved looking at writer's style, composition, description.

Fifth, I did my research.  London 1886 -- what was it like?   Jack the Ripper -- what are the facts?   I read. I looked. I took notes.  I selected what would be useful and what wouldn't.   I found many great books at my local library.

Sixth, I wrote, read, revised, and repeated.   I selected seven readers who offered opinions and suggestions.

Seventh, I read the entire manuscript aloud.  From page one, word one to the last page, last word.  The whole "read-aloud" took three weeks.  IT WAS WORTH IT!   I found numerous problems, typos, grammatical errors.   I recommend taking the time to read aloud.

Eighth, I stopped.  After reading aloud, I stopped.  I said "Fini!"  Otherwise, I would continue the sixth point over and over and over...   At some point, I made up my mind that this was it.   Love for what it is right now.

Those eight points brought me to where I am today.

Fini!

Over the weekend, I completed reading my book aloud.   This part of the process took about three weeks.  And now, I have the pleasure to say I have finished my first book -- thirty-three chapters and just over 47,000 words.   Now, I will be starting on book two, while searching for a book cover designer for book one.

Literally, I began this journey four years ago in August.  I remember my first draft as a short story with about six paragraphs -- one paragraph per chapter.  Somehow along the path, I turned a short story into full-fleged novel... which I had planned only a single volume... but the story grew to two... then three... then into a whole organization.

Now I have two blogs, one complete book, the start of a second book, and several books ideas.

Time!  I need more time!

Many Happy Birthdays!

August is an important event month for me.  First, my parents would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.  My grandmother's birthday is August 17 (she would be 97).  My mother's birthday was August 10 (she would be 78).   And of course, today -- August 15 -- Julia Child. 

Since I was young, Julia fascinated me.   She challenged America to learn and enjoy cooking as well as to have no fear.  Several years ago, I ate a local restaurant that gave out "fortune pull-tabs."   You pulled the tab open to reveal a quote.  My quote read "I didn't start cooking until I was 32, before that I just ate" and attributed to Julia Child.  

I relate to that quote.  To this day, it remains on my kitchen bulletin board.
I didn't start writing until I was 40, before that I just read.  Hope you don't mind Julia, but you had great influence, not just with your teaching and writing abilities, but also with your choice of words.  I aspire to live up to them.

Aloud!

Currently, I am reading my book aloud.  All of it.   This audible experience has been the best editing method.  I have found several grammatical errors, spelling issues, and punctuation.   On the bigger picture, I have found issues with flow, strange sentence structures, and other weird problems.
  
I highly recommend this method.  I read about it in several books on writing and editing. I cannot emphasis enough how much this has helped me.  I wished I would have read it aloud sooner.

Sailing into unfamiliar waters

When I starting writing, I never thought of all of the paths I would have to travel.   Oh no!   Just write a book...  Life will be great...   HA!  As Mark Twain or Benjamin Disraeli or whomever said -- "Lies, Damned Lies, and Statistics!" 

Right now, I am reading aloud the entire book, making any last changes.   When I finish a chapter, I say "done" and move on to the next one.  Right now, I am just over half way.  Next, the formatting process...  I have to make sure I follow Amazon's rules and Smashwords.   Amazon's format is simple.  Smashwords, which I love already, saves me from formatting for everyone else (B&N, Apple, iTunes).

Next comes getting to know the IRS...   I read about establishing an LLC, getting an EIN, opening a business banking account for any money made with my writing, filling out forms during tax season, deductibles, and non-deductibles...   Will I ever make that much money from these books?

Then, since I have decided to be an indie writer/publisher, come the marketing...  This could be fun.  I've already started this blog and one about The Time Savers Club.    I have other ideas on promotion as well.  Maybe free PDF copies of my book?   Business cards?   Parties?   The list goes on...

After much debate!

I have settled on my pen name.  Following the KISS method, I decided on C. S. Marshall.   I really like the name C. Mars Hall. But for publicity sake, it will be easier to stick with my original pen name of many moons ago.  This will simplify my life and use of social media venues.
Slowly reading my book aloud.   Believe me, when someone suggests reading your book aloud, do it!   So far, it has made a world of difference.

The Last Stages

One of the methods of self-editing that I have read is reading your book out-loud.   That's where I am.   Neighbors beware!   There's going to be some dramatics.

In the meantime, I have started a blog strictly for The Time Savers Club.   I agreed to be the keeper.  The blog is called The Time Savers Club.   I have started to add information there as the club allows.

Enjoy!

Show, Flow, Tell... Oh my!

It's been a couple of week since my last posting.   Taking a reading break, I have spent time learning show versus tell as well as flow in writing -- all suggestions from my chosen seven readers.   The reviews have been positive which makes me feel great.   I laugh whenever I look back at my earlier editions.  The first incarnation was a paragraph long and basic.  And now after almost three years... I am ready to complete it and send it out into the world.

On a completely different topic, when I discover a writer, I immediately search for their credentials.   Where did they go to school?   What was their major?   Was it English?  Creative writing?  How many books have theyr written?  Awards?  Tell me more!   Why do I do this?  I want to know that I am not the only writer out there with no background in English or creative writing.  

I have discovered others like me.  I am inspired by them to keep writing and chugging forward. 

One of my readers recommended Rebecca Stead and her book, When You Reach Me.   I checked it out from my local library and love it after only a couple of chapters.   However, I am also encouraged from her personal story.   She was lawyer turned writer.  I love her statement (found on her website under "About"):

"Some people will tell you that real writers don’t use parentheticals (which is nonsense). The most important thing to know about writing is that there are no rules."

Look Rebecca, I used them too...

Interview with Mrs. Lottie Steers

Hi everyone.  A few days ago, I had the great pleasure of sitting down with Mrs. Lottie Steers, time-traveler extraordinaire.

CSM:  Lottie, it's great to have you here on the blog.
LS:  Thanks, Mars.  It's my pleasure.
CSM:  So, I have to ask, how was traveling with Sam?
LS:  It was great fun.   We saw many of the best London sights.  Sam had never been to London, which made it even more exciting.
CSM:  Great.   So I understand that you and your husband traveled a lot.
LS:  We traveled everywhere.  Not only in time, but in our lives.   Albert loved to travel.  We took a tour of Europe one year.  We went to Rome, Paris, Barcelona, Venice.  We like to stay in villages as well, soak up some of the local culture.
CSM:  You two must have had a great time.
LS:  We did until Albert bought the book, then we had a fantastic time.   It was so much fun.   Some of my favorite adventures include the building of the Great Wall in China, the Pyramids, watching Napoleon get defeated at Waterloo.  There were some rough times. We visited Dachau.  That was horrible.  Absolutely horrible.
CSM:  I couldn't imagine.
LS:  We saw the concentration camp at its worst.   We went just a few days before the Americans rolled in.  I'm not even going to mention what was going on.   Let's talk about something else.
CSM:  I agree.   So, I understand you are part of a larger group of time-travelers. 
LS:  Oh yes.  We have conventions.   Last time, we meet in Oslo.   There were about 68 chapters from all over the world.   I got to see a lot of old friends and meet the newest inductees.  About 23 new travelers.
CSM:   I don't want to give away the plot of the book, but I understand there are some fight scenes.
LS:  Oh yes.  Some wild orb throwing.
CSM:  Good to hear.   Well, let's stop there.  I want our readers to have a good time while reading and not give away too much.
LS: I agree with that point as well.
CSM:  A special thanks to Mrs. Lottie Steers.  She's one of my characters in my first book.  Hopefully available by the end of the summer or early fall.  Thanks for joining us.  Until next time, keep reading and travel as a far as you can.

Starting Book Two...

After three years of learning how to write, reading about writing, and writing, I am drawing my first book to a close.  The end of August is the deadline.   No more editing, no more changes, no more additions...  Fini.  Special thanks to the gallant six who read it -- ppc, ll, db, mjte, jc, and jh -- the first time.  Some of their advice was taken to heart and I have to admit that I am thrilled with the new version. 

With the close of book one, I now have to turn to book two.  I have gave it the title Cleo and Edgar.   Over the past few weeks, Sam, Mrs. Steers, and myself have conferred on where to go.  Of course, I didn't tell them about my meeting with their arch enemies.  What a meeting that was!

Check back in a few days, I did an interview with Mrs. Steers.   She answered a few questions about my book.

Talking like an 11-year old

One of the biggest challenges for me has been writing dialogue that sounds like an 11-year old.  I still think Sam talks too much like an adult, even though he hangs out a lot with his Mom and Mrs. Steers.

I found this site -- Writing Young Adult Fiction For Dummies.  I had no idea the Dummies series had a website.  I learn something new everyday.   They have some good tips.  Since I am no longer a kid, but still one at heart, it's not easy to think like one.

As I read over their advice, I found this one interesting -- "Choose simple words. Young people don't generally break out the 50-cent words in normal dialogue unless they're fascinated by words or maybe want to show off how smart they are."   Guess what?  Sam is pretty smart for his age.  Maybe we'll be fine with a few bigger words.

Setting the Mood

Stephen King wrote in his book, On Writing, that you should have a quiet room and a door to shut out the world while you write.  OK, I have that, but it's not always quiet when I write.
In order to help me set the mood of the scenes I am writing, I play music.   Only instrumental, never vocal. 
On the stack next to my desk, I have a CD entitled The Hollywood Sound (John Williams and the London Symphony Orchestra), the soundtracks from both Sherlock Holmes films, Danny Elfman's Serenada Schizophrana, Beethoven for Your Beloved, the soundtrack to Hereafter, Birth, The DaVinci Code, and Downton Abbey.

They help me create the mood of a scene.  I wonder what a seasoned writer would say.

Thanks, Zadie Smith

"Tell the truth through whichever veil -- but tell it.  Resign yourself to the lifelong sadness that comes from never being satisfied."  -- Zadie Smith.

About twice a week, I flog myself.  Bitterly.  I cry, then drift off to sleep.  No leather whip or cat-o'-nine-tales involved.   Only words in my mind.  Berating myself.  Calling myself a BFN (big fat nobody) because I keep rewriting, reediting, adding, subtracting, retelling...

I found the above quote a few weeks ago.   And yes, I have resigned myself to never being satisfied with my writing.

But no matter what, I keep rolling along...

I admit I have never read any of your books, and maybe never will since our interests are drastically differnt, but your two simple sentences made me feel better.  Thanks, Zadie Smith. 

Good Catch in Editing!

While I editing a chapter in the second half, I realized I need more description of Buckingham Palace.  Before proceeding with what I know as the current gates around it, I decided it would be best to check my facts.  And it's good I did.  

Francis Frith (maker)

I was able to find this 1850 to 1870 photograph of the Palace from the front.  And voila!  
The gates are nothing like the ones surrounding it today.  In fact, the current gates were installed in 1911.

The photograph is from the Victoria and Albert online collection which has some great research materials. 

I have to bookmark this site for future research and general surfing.  The Victoria and Albert Museum has such a great website.  

Interview with Sam Henry

I recently sat down with 11-year-old Sam Henry to ask him about my book, "The Fingerprint of Jack."

CSM:   Sam, welcome to my blog.
SH:  Thanks, Mars, it's great to offer some insight into your book.  I do have to ask -- Will it ever be out there for people to read?
CSM:  Soon.  I promise. It's in the last edit.  My next step is to have it proofread by someone else for spelling, correct verb tenses, stuff like that.  After, that it's going out into the big world.
SH: Cool.
CSM:  Sam, tell us about your adventures.   You actually went back in time?
SH:   Yes, we did.  I mean Mrs. Steers and me.    At first, I totally thought she was nuts.  Totally insane.   But then she got serious.
CSM:   Really.   Mrs. Steers took you back in time.
SH: Yep.
CSM:  How was that first experience?   What was it like?
SH:   It's hard to explain.   At first, it's weird.   You're kind of like on a roller coaster, moving slow then fast then slow...  And you feel like you're flying...
CSM:  Interesting.   Had you felt like that before?
SH:  No.   I'm not sure what I could compare it to.  I was scary at first then awesome.
CSM:  That's sounds interesting.  So where did you go?
SH:  I chose London.  I had a school report to do about a topic in English history for school.  So, London in the 1880s was where we went.
CSM:   Did you see a lot of cool stuff?
SH:   I did.  I had no idea what life was really like back then. Part of it was gross.   There was horse manure everywhere and no one was really cleaning it up, especially where we were.
CSM:  Did you see any famous people?
SH:   Yes.  A couple, but I think I will let people find out when they read the book.
CSM:   So no secrets from you, eh?
SH:  Yeah.   No secrets from me.
CSM:   I agree.   I think we should leave a lot for the reader to discover.  So, with that...  This is C. S. Marshall wrapping up my interview with Sam Henry, the main character of "The Fingerprint of Jack."

Connecting with Your Disconnect

One of my biggest fears in writing is grammar and style.  One website I like is Guide to Grammar and Writing.   Check it out when you get a chance.
The second fear is accuracy in history.  Being a history major in college was helpful to a point.  It's knowing how to research that makes creating a great historical scene important.   (Loving history helps as well).   I wish I have one magic database, but I don't.   Historical research requires patience and perseverance.   Spending hours reading newspapers, books written during the time you are creating, and using images (in particular photographs if it is post-1840s) are the best, in my opinion.  
Did they have streetlamps in 1880s London?   I had to find out.  If they did, were they gas, electric, both?   I had to dig for that.   Ah, the fun stuff!

Gardening and A Favorite Book about Writing

When I began this blog, it blossomed from an idea as a place to track the progress of my first book.   Up to this point, the shy bloom has only opened a minuscule amount, hardly enough to view its bright colors, fresh fragrance, and full extent.   I have provided a few petals of my manuscript, but also discovered that other shoots emerged and formed buds.
My manuscript is not the only blossom I am nurturing, fearing it will shrivel up and die.  My garden is expanding, growing, and multiplying.  I have pulled up raw unedited short stories like turnips and potatoes.  You have to clean them before you eat them.  General comments sprouted.  Tidbits about history, places, ideas sprung up like weeds, between cracks.
An realization came to me the other day.   I have spent time plowing, nurturing, watering, tending, weeding, and admiring for almost three years on becoming a writer.   And I feel that now I can put that word behind my name at the top of this blog. 
During this process, I have had to relearn how to write, the basic sentence structure, build a better vocabulary, read, re-read, write no matter what, and dig a spot where I can plant myself to do it.
Along the way, I have picked up several books about writing.  Books by writers about writing.  Books about style, grammar, and vocabulary.  My journal has been a learning experience.
One book was Stephen King's On Writing.  After reading a library copy, I had to own it.   I tracked one down at the Half-Price Bookstore and grabbed from the shelf.  Now, I can take a highlighter and sticky notes to it.  The first half is an autobiography of King's interesting life.  The second two sections -- The Toolbox and On Writing -- are fantastic.   I learned the basics.  King spills it out.  Here's what I did and you should, too, if you want to be a published writer.   I highly recommend it. 

A Book within a Book

In The Fingerprint of Jack, Mrs. Steers has a very interesting book.  In fact, it's the one she used to learn how to time-travel.  
I have designed the book cover and it will be used somewhere in the book.  The name was inspired by 19th century book titles that explained what you would be reading in it.   I discovered the image in a book of pre-copyright materials and just loved it.   The hour glass with wings is a perfect symbol.
Too bad this book doesn't exist in our world. 

Illustrated London News from 1888

I find this illustration fascintating.

It's from a series of illustrations from the Illustrated London News for October 13, 1888. The series is entitled: "With the Vigilance Committee in the East End.". This specific illustration is calledv"A Suspicious Character."

What I find interesting about it are the two characters in the background.   Obviously the on the left represents Jack the Ripper, but the other two remind me very much of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.

An Excerpt from "The Fingerprint of Jack"

Here's an excerpt from my book for your reading pleasure:

"Jameson's got it at his shop," said Xavier.  "You must get it while we distract them.  Do you think he'll be able to manage?  Pull it off as you might say?”

"Who?" said Mrs. Steers.  Once again, with their backs to him, Sam didn't hear Xavier's answer.  Mrs. Steers shook her head then paced in a small circle.  "I've got a bigger problem to deal with first.  I have my work cut out for me.  He's lost...  He's so lost at a young age.  I'm going to have to convince him.  Show him I'm serious.  Maybe I need some outside help."

“You keep working on him," said Xavier putting on his top hat.  "It's going to be tough.  Regardless, we have to get there soon.  It needs to be safe.  We must discover what they are trying to place.”

“Don't worry about that.  Rose and Ari are working on that.   They seem to think it's something small this time.” 

“Whatever happens, you can count on Xavier Graff!”

With that, Xavier Graff gave Mrs. Steers a hug and peck on the cheek. He walked back across the street and turned tipping his top hat to her just as a van drove by. After it passed, he was gone.    Sam glanced around as best he could from behind the screen door, but there was no sign of Xavier Graff.  He had vanished.   Sam stared in disbelief over his disappearance, then shook his head and went upstairs.

Almost, but not yet...

As I prepare for another weekend of languishing, staring at the monitor, and tapping on the keyboard, I am confident about my first book.   I had six reviews and each provided vast insight.  

After chopping and pruning, "the word-letting" has stopped and new words are flowing again.   This time, Sam had new direction and a better goal.  It was tough, but I did it.  Hey, it's not easy watching the story -- the one you gave birth to-- go through growing pains, but it was necessary.  

And now, I love it even more, which (and with my low self-evaluation of the book) may mean others like it less.  Who knows. 

All I know are these two thoughts... 

If you're out there reading this, thanks for reading.   I have talked about this book for a long time!   As far as I'm concerned, the end is near.  The editing process could go on for years!  Once again, thanks for hanging on.

And second, two quotes from a song from the Disney's thrilling Broadway musical, Mary Poppins...
"Anything can happen if you let it..." and "If you reach for the stars, all you get are the stars, so we found a whole new spin, if you reach for the heavens, you get the stars thrown in..."

Please be right, Mary Poppins!  Please be right, Mary Poppins!  PLEASE be right...

It is with great pleasure..

That I post the first chapter of my book.  It is not very long, but it is the first...  Enjoy!

The Fingerprint of Jack

Chapter 1 -- Who knew?

When eleven-year old Sam Henry got out of bed that Thursday morning in late October, he had no idea what an interesting day, or next few days for that fact, it would be.  

Who knew an ordinary boy would discover an important clue -- a fingerprint attributed to London’s bloodiest serial killer of the late nineteenth century, one of history’s most famous mysteries? 

Who also knew he would become involved with a mysterious club taking him on the greatest adventure of his life -- one that would show him history first hand?

So how did clue end up in the dusty attic of the old Victorian house where Sam and his mom lived with an eccentric widowed landlady?  And how did Sam get involved with this mysterious club?

The story begins on a frigid January evening in an apartment in Chicago…

Who knew?

John Bellairs



Jerimiah Cronin house in Marshall from MichMarkers.com



I recently travel to Marshall, Michigan, hometown of my favorite author, John Bellairs.   Bellairsia has vast amounts of information about him and his work.  He was known for his mystery novels featuring Lewis Barnavelt, Anthony Monday, and Johnny Dixon.  



The other night, I began re-reading The House with the Clock in It's Walls.  The house is based on a real Italianate house in Marshall.    I borrowed this photograph from MichMarkers.com.   I took my own photographs but haven't downloaded them yet.

John Bellairs is my inspiration to write.  His writing style is simple, clean, and easy to read.   I have found my style to be similiar. 



Revising... Editing... Aching back...

Each night for the past week, my back aches when I crawl into bed.  I pulled up the soft sheet and blanket, get warm, and drift off to Neverland.   Often exhausted from the revising and editing I have been doing on the first half of my book.   The changes, in my opinion, has added more flavor, a deeper sense of Sam's life, and better direction of what he needs to learn.  After all, he is the protagonist of the story.  However, I was shocked at who turned out to be the antagonist. 

Reviews, Changes, and Edits

To date, two of the five readers of my book have given their reviews.   One loved it, one didn't like it.   Personally, I thought the first half of my book was too long and too little action with shallow characters.   Both said very similar comments equally my thoughts.

These comments sparked my imagination and wondered what if Sam...   Well, I'll leave it at that.  

This project seems to be taking forever. I am not disciplined enough to make myself sit and write on a regular basis.  Oh well, it took Margaret Mitchell three year to write Gone with the Wind!   But, she had more time and maybe not as much housework.

A Hard Road to Travel -- Part 6

The writing has come to a stand still.   I am holding my breathe as I prepare to hear the first round of comments from my five readers on my book.   I've already been reworking the first chapter.   It's interesting to look at it again.   It's been about 4 or 5 weeks since last I read it.

In the meantime, here's another the newest part of A Hard Road to Travel: The Letters of Two Sisters.

 

March 20

 

Indianapolis, Indiana

 

Dear Marianne

 

Hope all is well.   We are doing fine.  It's actually been warm the past few days -- highs in the low 50s.   Snow's starting to melt.   And the tulips are starting to come up.  Our utility bill runs about $60 a month -- that's for the electric, water, and wood delivery.   We were told about 2 months ago that the gas lines would be back up and running.   Now that everything is controlled by the city, it seems to be cheaper.   It used to be about $140 for two different services -- electric and wood -- but now the council ordered they be combined which lead to lots of issues.   We're lucky in a way that we are moving forward into a more communal situation especially after last year when the riots hit.  About 120 people were killed. We stayed inside and kept watch at night.  What a mess that was.   Finally, the mayor and governor called in the national guard.  That's when the "the fences" went up and ids were required.  Lots of scammers "disappeared" -- or at least that's what we heard.

 

Gotta go.  Write soon.  Love to all.

 

Sally

 

*****

 

March 25

 

Keene, New Hampshire

 

Dear Sal

 Good to hear all is well.  Snow is melting here.   The temps have gotten up into the 50s and plenty of sunshine.   Great news -- we heard about our applications.  They have been approved for us to move there.   It will not be until May.   We broke the news to Mama and she is very excited.   She will be glad to be back in Indy.   Let us know about the apartment situation there.  Our next hoop will be applying for gas.  I wished we would have bought one of the electric cars when we had the chance.  Oh well.

 

Anyway, gotta go. 

Love Marianne

Changes to come

After much consideration, I will be changing the title and web address of my blog.   Not to worry, I will keep you posted when I come up with the new names.   Since the my book is The Fingerprint of Jack and the blog hasn't really focused on it, I think it would be better to change the title and web address.

Plus as I mentioned in a previous post, the sequel has a completely different name, plus the short stories on here are more for an adult audience (even though adults love kids books too)...

It just gets complicated.  

As the month of March nears an end, my critics should be almost near the end of my book.   I am hoping for some great comments as well as some honest criticisms.  

Taking a break.

Now, I am waiting the reviews from my five readers.   I printed out five copies of my book and distributed them.   All are due to be back by mid-April.   So in the meantime, I have been taking a break and reading...  as well as cleaning house, getting stuff ready to sell on Ebay...

But soon, I will return with new short stories.  I also keep working on the one entitled "A Hard Road to Travel: The Letters of Two Sisters."   What lies ahead for them?  Who knows?  Not me!

As I mentioned, I am reading.  Right now, "On Writing" by Stephen King has encouraged and provided me with lots of great information.   I have to be honest and say that I have never read any of King's books.  I have enjoyed some of the movies based on the books.  Who wouldn't love Kathy Bates as Annie Wilkes?  (Well, maybe King himself.)

Working on Book Two

After an evening of printing out five copies of my first book, The Fingerprint of Jack, and distributing them to five lucky readers, I am now starting on book two.   Presently, I call it "Cleo and Edgar."   Sam and Mrs. Steers are off and going again...   And it even gets a little more sinister...

Almost there!

After a year's work, my book, The Fingerprint of Jack, is almost through the editing process.  My two gracious editors gave lots of comments and now I am in the process of polishing.   The next step will be to have five lucky people read it from start to finish...  Those who find the five golden tickets in chocolate bars will have the honor of reading my book...

No, sorry, not really... I was just having a Willy Wonka moment.   The five people have already been selected.

After that, I have no idea...  Amazon offers print-on-demand and direct to Kindle.  I've been reading about other authors who have chosen this route and they were not dissappointed...

Whatever route, I am excited!    Plus, the next book is under way... Sam and Mrs. Steers travel back in time to see...  Well, you'll have to wait and see...

Very Sad News

I am very sad to report the death of one of my favorite authors -- Dorothy Gilman.   Here's her obituary from the New York Times.   She has influenced my own writing.   No more Mrs. Pollifax.

A Hard Road to Travel -- Part 5

This multi-part short story fascinates me.   I got the idea from wondering what life would be like after some major national, yet natural, disaster.   Somehow, I just couldn't picture mass destruction.   Too heart-breaking.   One of my favorite writing styles are letters, like de Loclos' Les Liaisons Dangereuses.   I think this type of writing style allows for more imagination.

 

Enjoy!

 

 

A Hard Road to Travel -- Part 5

 

March 7

Indianapolis, Indiana

 

Dear Marianne,

 

Hope all is well and the winter hasn't been too bad.  The winter here has been a little rough.  They say we're having a harder winter because we're getting "lake effect snows" from the new lakes.   We had 3 feet of snow and the temperatures were below freezing for several days.  The kids stayed home from school for 4 days.   I got out all of Grandma's knitting needles and Janet and I are knitting.   We got lots of yarn a couple of weeks ago when we went shopping.  

Do you remember me writing about Karen and Jack, the dentist?  They left several weeks ago and arrived in Reno.   I got a letter from Karen.   She said the trip was long.   The railroad out of Chicago has reconnected with several cities -- Sioux Falls and Des Moines -- she mentioned they have lots of lake front property in those areas now.  She ran into an old friend of hers from Little Rock -- also now has lots of lake front property.   The friend said that Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama are mainly gone.  St. Louis for the most part is under water.   She said the arch literally sank into the ground along with most of the city.  She found an article in the Chicago Trib while they were there where scientists thought that the quake caused more sinking than actually shaking.

 

Well, anyway.  I have to go.  I write soon.

Love Sal

 

****

 

March 15

 

Keene, New Hampshire

 

Dear Sal

 

 All is well here except for the 6 feet of snow, but the temps have been about 30.  Mama got a letter from a friend whose visiting in Florida.  She says not much has changed down there except the water levels at the beaches.  Says the beaches out into the gulf about half mile further out.   Her friend told her when the whole area sank it sucked all the water out of the gulf and at first they were about a mile out, but the water level has come back up. 

I was going to ask you about the utility bills there and how much they run.  I've been waiting for a response about our applications.  I haven't heard anything yet.   We have someone interested in buying the house, so we just have to wait.

 

Love Marianne

In Xanadu did Kubla Khan, a stately pleasure-dome decree...

After taking a short break from writing, I am back to it!  

The sequel to my first book, which has yet to be published, is pouring out of my brain onto the electronic pages of my computer.    At first, I thought "I'll never be able to match what I did with the first book...", well, now I'm worried that I may have too much!

Finally I wrote a short blurb about my book, but still have yet to give up any chapters here.  That copyright fear keeps rearing it's head.    I just know you are all waiting patiently!  Anyway, here's the blurb --

"Eleven-year old Sam Henry had no idea how mysterious Mrs. Lottie Steers was when he and his Mom rented an apartment from her.  An old newspaper with a single fingerprint, a book of spells, and a group of unique characters take Sam on an extraordinary trip back in time to come face to face with one of history's most notorious serial killer.  What Sam didn't realize was he would find himself involved in a bigger mystery to help save time..."

Some of my short stories keep waiting for me to finish them --
What really happened in the plains of the now physically divided United States?   Sally and Marianne need to keep those letters coming...  Not to mention, the story I call The Stone Throwers Club...  Or even other partially-outlined books that keep flowing from somewhere in my imagination!

I need a millionaire to take care of me, so I can stay home and write!  

Happy Valentine's Day!

The Next Book and Other Projects

Book Two, a.k.a. The Sequel to The Fingerprint of Jack, is now rolling.   I have outlined some chapters and, like its predecessor, I can tell that it will grow... and grow... and grow! 

I also had a revelation.  At first, I couldn't get past the idea that no one is going to like the book.  Something just kept dragging me into that thought pattern.   Then it hit me and I said to myself...   "You are telling a good story...  That's all that matters!"   That did it!   I gained about a zillion percent in the confidence level.

Anyway...
I am now starting other projects -- some great story ideas, both long and short.   Keep reading, if you're out there, but also be patient.   I am aiming for better writing.

A Hard Road to Travel -- Part 4

A Hard Road to Travel -- Part 4

February 22

Indianapolis, Indiana

Got you letter this morning -- Yeah, I see what you mean about improved service.   I ran into the postman and he said the government's back involved with the postal service.    Let's hope they can stick with it.   If the system gets more regular, I will try to write every week.   Let's just hope we can get over this whole mess.

I also have some other good news.   Harry got a letter from IU and they accepted him.  He's going to be studying engineering.   They have re-started the department and have the best profs available.   He also got to see a presentation on the big quake.  He was telling us all about it and brought home a lot of information.   I was amazed about the arch.   I thought for sure it would have fallen, but the way the earth moved, it literally dropped straight down and is now only about 20 feet high out of the water.  I couldn't imagine.

Well, gotta go.

Love, Sal

*****

February 27

Keene, New Hampshire

All is well here.   Great to hear about Harry.  Bert and I sent the applications -- all completed.  Now we just have to wait and hear.   I don't think we will have much of a problem getting there.   Remember when we could just travel, or move for that fact, anywhere in the country.  And now we have to apply to move into a city!  Well, at least, the biggest part of the country still exists.  I wonder if we will get Alaska back from the Chinese?   And then there's Texas or what's left of it.   I hear nobody can get in.   We got a very long letter from Bert's cousins.  They left Amarillo in the middle of the night and made it to Rapid City, South Dakota in about a week.   Apparently, on the other side of the Mississippi lakes, as you call them, life isn't too bad.  The quake damage isn't as bad.    They sent an article from the Rapid City newspaper summing up what's going on there.  I''ve enclosed it for you guys.  

Well, gotta go.   XOXOXO

M

Researching Jack

Jack the Ripper has always fascinated me.  Not because he killed innocent women, but because his true identity was never discovered.  Many theories exist about who he was, but nothing 100%.

So, when Sam came to life, we naturally had something in common -- we both like unsolved mysteries.  And like Sam, I had to read about Jack and his victims.   I found several great books at the library and one incredible website -- Casebook: Jack the Ripper.   For my book, I read a lot about Jack.  More than I really needed to know.   For Sam, he only had to write a two-to-three page report for his history class.  (I think I was luckier.)

Creating the past was the hardest part of writing.   What was London like in 1886?   Did is smell bad?   What were the living conditions like in Whitechapel?  Hopefully, I gave enough flavor to the time and place. 

At this time, I am eagerly waiting for the second half of my book to come back from my volunteer editors.  I also eagerly await their comments and overall thoughts.

Favorite Websites

It seems like I haven't kept up with my blog, but the truth is I have been spending time writing more than blogging.   I've also been searching for some great wbsites out there to help me with my writing and finding sources of classes and groups.

My first recommendation is the website for The Writers' Center of Indiana.   They offer numerous courses you can take.   A great list of websites can be found under "Resources" for writer and teachers.  The Writers' Center began in 1979 and has continued to support writers and their craft here in Indianapolis.  The Writers' Center of Indianapolis

First half of the book...

I have completed the first half of my book... maybe... unless I sit down and start re-reading and decide to change something or add more...  The whole story  and my main characters, Sam and Mrs. Steers, have taken on lives of their own.   When I started, I had no plans for a book.  A short story was all I had in mind. 

How about a brief glimpse of my book?

When Sam Henry and his Mom move into a small apartment which is part of a larger home owned by Mrs. Lottie Steers, local writer and historian.   One day, Sam makes an interesting discovery in the attic -- a newspaper supposedly have the only known fingerprint of London's most famous serial killer.   This one discovery sends Sam and Mrs. Steers into the past... only for Sam to become involved in a larger mystery.

The Fingerprint of Jack

What would you do if you found an old newspaper that supposedly had the fingerprint of history's most notorious serials killers?  Sam Henry found out...

A Hard Road to Travel: The Letters of Two Sisters -- Part 3

A Hard Road to Travel: The Letters of Two Sisters -- Part 3

February 17

Indianapolis, Indiana

Good news, Marianne!   I mentioned to the head of the apartment building that you might be moving here.  She wanted to know what you do for a living.  When she found out you were a former decorator and gardener, she got very excited.  Apparently, there is a need for people with your knowledge in the area.   She said when you fill out the applications to get in, you should put us down as well as the open apartment.  There may be another one opening up soon.   Karen and Jack may be moving to Reno, Nevada.  Jack is a dentist and they are in need of them there.   Karen said if they go, it would take them 2 weeks to get there.   Travel across the Mississippi lakes can be difficult.  Stuff keeps floating up.   I heard the other day that part of the St. Louis arch is now sticking up about 25 feet and that means the water level has gone down.   They'd been tracking it for about four months and the water has stayed down.  I'm amazed it didn't collapse.

Well, gotta go.  Another class at the library -- more on canning and preserving.  Give the kids hugs and kisses from me.

Love, Sal

**** 

February 20

Keene, New Hampshire

Well, this was a surprise.  I just got your letter.  It only took a few days unlike a few weeks ago when it could take up to several weeks.   The postal system has started to come back together and a lot of the individual postmen have organized again.  Plus there's talk about a structured charge system again.  Anyway, I'm writing back asap to see how long it takes for you to get this.  

Interesting about the arch.  I thought they said nothing in that area survived.  Mama still wonders about her cousins there.  We finally had 'the talk' -- they probably never made it since the quake hit so fast.

Write when you can. 

Love, M

Back in the Saddle Again

It's been two since I last looked at my book.   Next week, I hope to return to it.   In the meantime, I did revise my short story, The Piano Teacher.   I see some short story contests in the future with that one.

Let me know what you think of it!   I'm always looking for constructive criticism.

A Hard Road to Travel: The Letters of Two Sisters -- Part 2

A Hard Road to Travel: The Letters of Two Sisters -- Part 2

February 1

Indianapolis, Indiana

Dear Marianne,

Got your last letter and we are excited about the prospect of you all moving here.   I will send you some information about the area.   You may be in luck -- we have an vacant apartment in our building.   I can send you an application.   I think you have good chances with Bert's engineering background.  Some places are completely unsafe for the time being.   I do know over the last two months they executed 5 people for murders, looting, and theft.   The laws here are very strict now.   Most of the downtown is pretty safe now.   We were able to get a pretty good place since Tom is very good at farming and I have my nursing background.   We have the neighborhood farm plot.   We get a lot of fresh produce.    There's a lot of farm land to the west, but you can only go so far. 

Well, have to go.  Off to the library to attend a class on canning and preserving.   I never thought I would have to learn how to do that.

Love ya, Sally

****

February 10

Keene, New Hampshire

Dear Sally,

Got your letter and the information sheets with the applications.  I see you had to pay $22 to send it.  Remind me to pay you back.   Too bad we don't have a regulated postal service anymore.  I hear they are trying to get it back up and running.   Bert says the country got what they wanted -- smaller government.   So small the only thing left is what is in Washington and it is pretty much like getting into Fort Knox anymore.   We talked about taking the kids to the museums there, but the application fees are about $100 each now.  They are talking here about property tax again.    Remember that!  I can't remember the last time we paid taxes -- but of course the roads are impassible, private postal service, the hospital is closed most of the week.  Judy from up the road went there to get a broken wrist set.  The doctors there wouldn't do it -- she didn't have the money.   They wanted to charge her $500 to do it.  She finally bartered it down to $20 and now she has to go and clean the doctor's house every Saturday for the next 2 years.  If you're rich, you're set.   We've saved money, but nothing like that.

Well, must go.  Expect a letter from Mama soon.

Love, Marianne

A Hard Road to Travel: The Letters of Two Sisters --Part 1

A brand new project for a brand new year...   I have been working on a new short story in the form of a series of letters.   So far, I have four letters written and have no idea where it is going.   I will be adding to it over.... while an undefined period of time.   Since there are several short stories in the pipeline, this one may take a while to finish and other completed stories may appear intermittently.  So for now, read on, McDuff!

A Hard Road to Travel: The Letters of Two Sisters -- Part 1

December 29

Indianapolis, Indiana

Dear Marianne,

We are well here.  It was good to hear from you; got your letter just before Christmas.  Indiana is booming again with people.   Tom and the coop bought two more oxen since we had such a lot of good produce last year.   Winter has started and we are ready.  The children are attending the local school.  Just think Harry is a junior and Janet a sophomore.  Harry took a weekend trip to Bloomington to visit Indiana University.  I wish that Mama would come visit.  I wrote and asked her if she wanted to, but have yet to hear.   I finished my third quilt of the year.  Now, I must work on the last one.

Please write when you get a chance.  I know it takes the post office to deliver in several days.  We hope that the New Year will bring better hope.

Love, Sally

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January 10

Keene, New Hampshire

Dearest sister Sally,

It was good to hear from you.  Mama had a cold for several days and she promises to write. She mentioned coming in the early Spring.  Good news -- we may come with her.   Bert's been talking about moving closer to you.  The winters are unpredictable here.   We also have a hard time farming the land.   Martha and Brian are both ready to start 5th grade.  Sometimes I wonder if they should have been a year apart in school, but some days I'm just happy they lived to go to school.

Well, must close.  I find it so hard to actually write a letter these days with pen and paper.

Love Marianne

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