Hello Friends!
For some reason, blogger.com will not let me make posts on my IPAD, so i am having to do this on my laptop. Bear with me.
Thursday night was a fun night for Michelle and I. We both got to participate in The Little Lighthouse Resource Fair. The staff is so nice there. Michelle and I both concluded that we would like to volunteer for them someday. We only sold two copies of the book, but you know what? That is two more families that we reached that did not know about "I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay" that did not know about he book before. That in itself is a blessing. We also dircted people to Amazon.com as well as barnesandnoble.com You can review our work on those two sites.
Now, for the big news......... Michelle's drawings for the second book is almost complete. It hs been a long time, and I know you all are patiently waiting. Thank-you It takes time for a great artist like Michelle to do her work. We hope to find a publisher as well as publish the secomnd book in the seies by the end of this year.
Please keep readiing. Thanks everyone!
Monday, February 13, 2012
Monday, January 9, 2012
The Little Lighthouse Tulsa, OK
Hello one and all!
Happy New Year! I have made a lot of resolutions as far as writing goes. One resolution is to keep this blog updated. I will try to do this every two weeks. The truth is, there is not much going on in the Penny Brown world right now. However, Michelle and I are looking forward to good things as far as "I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay."
One thing that has us excited is we wil both go to th Little Lighthouse on Feb. 9th and sign books as a part of The Little Lighthouse Resource Fair. This is a great preschool for children with special needs. (And, i am not just saying that because I went there a LONG time ago) However, the staff and volunteers really care about the kids. Michell and I are excited to sign boks. The event begins at 6:00 P.M. Feb. 9th. I Sit In A Wheelchair....But I Will Be Okay will be on sale for $10.00 and we will autograph it for you.
And, as alwas, we do like to speak at schools and other venues, so please feel free to contact us,
Hope to see you at The Little Lighthouse in Tula, Oklahoma on Feb. 9th.
Happy New Year! I have made a lot of resolutions as far as writing goes. One resolution is to keep this blog updated. I will try to do this every two weeks. The truth is, there is not much going on in the Penny Brown world right now. However, Michelle and I are looking forward to good things as far as "I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay."
One thing that has us excited is we wil both go to th Little Lighthouse on Feb. 9th and sign books as a part of The Little Lighthouse Resource Fair. This is a great preschool for children with special needs. (And, i am not just saying that because I went there a LONG time ago) However, the staff and volunteers really care about the kids. Michell and I are excited to sign boks. The event begins at 6:00 P.M. Feb. 9th. I Sit In A Wheelchair....But I Will Be Okay will be on sale for $10.00 and we will autograph it for you.
And, as alwas, we do like to speak at schools and other venues, so please feel free to contact us,
Hope to see you at The Little Lighthouse in Tula, Oklahoma on Feb. 9th.
Monday, December 5, 2011
The Troublemaker
This is a short story for a contest that I am participating in. Hope you like it!
The Troublemaker
My first impression of Phillip was that he was blessed with ignorance. He arrived earlier on Tuesday morning, transferring from Meadowbrook Middle School in Arkansas to Lincoln Middle School in Oklahoma. Phillip had only been in my third period English Lit class for twenty minutes; but I knew he was going to become my most difficult student
Phillip sat in the back row with his brown hair in a ponytail and long bangs. I handed Phillip a copy of Pride and Prejudice. He took it and glanced at the cover with distaste. Have you ever read Pride and Prejudice, Phillip? I asked.
“ Mrs. Hodges, I ain’t never heard of the book!” Phillip declared loudly to the entire class. Several students erupted into a fit of giggles.
“Who knows.” That boy probably hasn’t even read an entire book in his whole life.” Kyle Porter teased softly.
“Class, be quiet!” I said sharply. The noise died down to a small roar. Phillip shoved the book aside. “I don’t got no use for books like this” He declared.
“I’m sorry you feel that way Phillip. Maybe you will change your mind as we start reading it.”
“I doubt it.” Phillip mumbled.
What was with this kid? I wondered silently. There is always one student who comes into my classroom each year who seems more challenging than the rest. It looked like I had my work cut out for me with Phillip.
The rest of the hour passed by quickly. Before I knew it, the bell had rung. “Be sure and read the first seventy-five pages before class tomorrow. Come prepared to discuss the assignment.”
A collective groan could be heard throughout the room as the students arose to leave. My blue eyes darted toward Phillip as I watched him walk out the door. He wore blue jeans that had several visible rips along the seams. Phillip’s green tee shirt also had a small hole in the left shoulder. Kids like him usually spelled T-R-O-U-B-L-E.
Phillip became the topic of many conversations around school that day. Students stared at Phillip as if he were from a foreign planet instead of another state. Teachers didn’t know what to make of him. A group of seventh and eighth graders were huddled near the teacher’s lounge whispering as I walked by.
“I bet Phillip shops at that Goodwill store downtown. Did you get a load of what he was wearing today?” whispered Cassie Waters.
“Hey, maybe we should call Phillip a Holy Roller! Jerome Michael’s joked.
“His clothes would fit that description!” Kyle Porter whispered.
Pretending not to hear their rude comments, I quickly pushed open the teacher’s lounge door to find more of the same remarks coming from several teachers. “Wow! What a piece of work Phillip is.” Mrs. Adams, the History teacher said. “He doesn’t like to work, that’s for sure.”
“Tell me about it!” Mr. Grimes, the Science teacher moaned. “I asked Phillip to dissect a frog in the lab, and he refused.
“Phillip won’t play basketball in Gym.” Coach Caldwell announced. “He is a lazy bum!”
It seemed the teacher’s assessment of Phillip were worse than the kids’. It made me disgusted that people would treat a new student like this. “Okay, Phillip does have faults, but that doesn’t mean that he can’t learn” I spoke up quietly.
All the teachers sat in silence, shaking their heads.
Most all my students came to class on Wednesday morning with a copy of Pride and Prejudice. However, I should have known Phillip wasn’t prepared.
“Gee Mrs. Hodges, I left my book at home” Phillip said. “I guess that means I can’t follow along with the class.
I sighed. Something told me this wasn’t the only excuse Phillip used to get out of doing his homework. “For today, pull your desk over beside Brian’s and you two can share…”I paused before adding, “try not to let it happen again Phillip.”
He looked at Brian without a care in the world. “Sorry Mrs. Hodges.” Phillip said.
At least Phillip apologized. His organizational skills were terrible; yet, Philip’s manners were great. My class discussed their own interpretations of the main characters. Some students participated fully in the discussion while others remained silent, yet attentive. However, Phillip didn’t fit either description, as I caught him staring out the window.
“Earth to Phillip.” I said, after asking him a question.
No response was given. Phillip sat still, looking out the window in silence. Several students giggled.
I walked over to his desk. “Phillip, Who was the youngest Bennett daughter? “
Phillip turned toward me with a blank look on his face. “The kid must be deaf, Mrs. Hodges!” Kyle Porter teased.
I gave Kyle a stern look. “That’s enough! One more remark, and you will be in detention, Kyle”
“Sorry,” Kyle mumbled sheepishly.
The bell rang just then. The students arose from their chairs chattering to one another. “Class, please read pages 75-150 for tomorrow. Have a good day.”
I was going to ask Phillip to stay after class, but he made a rather hasty exit. He was gone before I could talk to him. I sighed. Oh well, tomorrow is another day.
Later that day, I walked down the hall to the office where I turned in my attendance sheets. Upon entering, I saw Phillip sitting in the reception area.
“Hello Phillip!” I said.
He mumbled something unintelligible. “What are you doing here?”
Phillip narrowed his dark eyes. “Hey, lay off okay, lady!” Phillip declared.
Phillip is one angry kid. I thought. Before I could say any more, Mr. Anderson came out his office. “You can come in now, Phillip. First, please apologize to Mrs. Hodges.”
Phillip’s eyes were downcast as he mumbled the apology. “Sorry, Mrs. Hodges.”
He marched into the office along with Mr. Anderson without another word. The school secretary Rhonda suddenly became busy with paperwork, but I knew she had listened to the exchange between us. I was never one to start gossip; however, Phillip intrigued me. He displayed nice manners sometimes. However, Phillip’s attitude needed a major makeover.
Rhonda knew I was watching her. “So,” she began, cracking her gum loudly, “Do you want to know what I heard about this kid.”
I shook my head. “Well, I don’t listen-"
“This is not a rumor!” she said hotly. “I overheard Phillip’s grandmother tell Mr. Anderson Phillip had been kicked out of three different schools before he came to Lincoln. For fighting, swearing, AND smoking.” She emphasized.
“But, Phillip is a nice kid” I argued.
“Mrs. Hodges”, Rhonda pointed out gently. Nice kids don’t get called to the principal’s office for smoking in the boy’s bathroom? Do they?
Before I could answer, Mr. Anderson’s door opened, and Phillip came out, looking disgusted. “Rhonda, can you send a memo to Phillip Barker’s teachers, and ask them to send all of his class assignments for tomorrow to Mrs. Spencer? Our friend Phillip is going to spend the day thinking about what he did during ISS.
‘Yes sir.” Rhonda answered.
I turned to leave as Phillip sat down in the chair again, probably waiting for a ride home. I saw Phillip glance at me as I started out the door. The look he gave me was a mixture of disgust, embarrassment and fear. Phillip got caught at something he knew wasn’t right. The fear came from what was going to happen to him. Was Phillip afraid of being disciplined at home? I didn’t know. However, I saw something else in Phillip’s dark eyes. They seemed to be pleading, Help me.
My English Lit students seemed relieved when I called roll on Thursday morning. Phillip didn’t answer, of course. This made the others guess as to where he was.
“I heard that he got busted yesterday!” Randy Thompson announced.
“Oh yeah.” This information piqued Jill Lawson’s interest. “What for?”
“Well, Principal Anderson went to the john yesterday, and when he came out, the air smelled of smoke. There sat Phillip puffing a cigarette” Randy responded.
“Wow!” Kyle Porter put in, shaking her head.
“Well,” Katherine Ramsey said, “I hope Phillip learns his lesson, wherever he is. I went without lunch all day yesterday!” she exploded. The boy took all my lunch money!”
“Katherine!” I exclaimed. “Why didn’t you come and tell me or another teacher?” I asked, feeling badly for her.
“Mrs. Hodges,” Katherine explained patiently. I didn’t want to be a tattletale.
“Don’t worry Katherine.” Kyle said. “I will beat him up.”
Teachers hear different types of conversations among their students. Kyle’s comment was one I wish that I hadn’t heard. “Kyle, violence is not the answer,” I said.
“What is?” Kyle retorted.
“Phillip is a loser!” Randy said.
Well, that is when we have to see the good in Phillip. Everyone has a good side somewhere.” I told the class. “Now, let’s begin today’s lesson…”
Despite his absence, I couldn’t get Phillip out of my mind the rest of the day. How can I help Phillip? I was going to have to come up with a plan before he found himself in trouble again.
By the time I arrived at school Friday morning, I had an idea concerning Phillip. Rhonda said he had a grandmother. I realized that Mr. Anderson had probably talked to her concerning the boy’s bathroom incident. However, I called Rose Barker in for a chat about her grandson myself. Rose was a nice woman in her mid-sixties with flaming red air and blue-green eyes. She looked sad while apologizing for Phillip’s behavior. As Rose continued talking, I began to understand the reason for Phillip’s obnoxious behavior. His mother died from lung cancer when Phillip was ten, and his father left Phillip when he was two. Rose had also lost her husband two years before in a car accident. It was no wonder Phillip was acting out. The boy was grieving for the family he had lost, even though Rose gave him all the love and attention that he needed. So, I offered to help Phillip with his work a couple of times a week after school, hoping that would solve the problem.
Some teachers can work miracles. I hoped that would prove true with Phillip.
By the time third hour rolled around, I was anxious to carry out my plan with Phillip. The students were chatting and laughing with one another as the bell rang, singling the start of class.
“Good morning everyone!” I said brightly.
Everyone was still talking. “Okay, place all books, notes, and binders on the floor. It is time to see how much you know about Pride and Prejudice. We are having a quiz.” I announced.
That got the class’ attention quickly. The students exchanged panicked looks with each other.
“If you have been paying attention, you will do just fine” I said calmly, placing a piece of paper on each student’s desk. Now, turn your papers over and begin.” I instructed.
The only sound that could be heard from then on were pencils scratching against paper. I walked around the room, and noticed Phillip had dropped his pencil. I bent over to pick it up. As I handed it back to him, I saw that Phillip’s eyes had wandered over to Kyle Porter’s desk across the isle. “Okay boys, that will be enough.” I took both of their papers away.”
“Hey! What did I do?” Kyle exclaimed.
“Yeah! Why did you do that?” Phillip asked.
“It looked to me like you were copying off Kyle’s paper Phillip, and Kyle, you are just as guilty for having the paper in plain sight.”
“I didn’t even know he was looking at my paper!” Kyle stood up from his chair with his fists balled in Phillip’s direction.
I knew I needed to do something before Kyle’s temper exploded. “Okay boys, both of you come with me. You two can make up this test after school in my room. For now, let’s step into the hallway.
“No fair Mrs. Hodges. I’ll miss basketball practice.” Kyle said angrily.
“Maybe you should have thought of that before letting Phillip look off your paper. Let’s go boys.”
. I marched the boys to the front of the room, leaving the rest of my shocked students to finish the quiz. “I’ll be right back. Mrs. Adams will come in shortly, so don’t any of the rest of you try to cheat.”
Once Mrs. Adams was inside my room, I was left to deal with one angry boy in the hallway. However, I noticed that Phillip was unusually quiet. Did he actually understand the seriousness of cheating? “Okay guys, I want to hear the truth. Phillip, were you trying to copy off Kyle’s paper?”
Phillip was silent for a moment, looking down at the holes in the knees of his jeans as he spoke.
“Well”, I said putting my hands on my hips. “Were you?”
Phillip glanced at me. “Yes, Mrs. Hodges.”
I put my hands on my temples. Phillip had messed up again. “Why Phillip? Didn’t you know it was wrong?”
In answer, Phillip shrugged his shoulders
Meanwhile, Kyle mumbled to himself
“Kyle, that’s enough. Go back to class, and I will see you in detention this afternoon. Maybe it will teach you to hide your paper for another person’s view.”
Kyle opened the door mumbling. After it closed, I said, “Phillip, that is an interesting statement. Mr. Anderson is a fair man who goes over the handbook with each new student.”
I saw Mr. Anderson walking down the hall just then. “Here he comes now. I am just going to ask him.”
“Go ahead, see if I care.” Phillip responded.
“Do we have a problem here, Mrs. Hodges?” Mr. Anderson asked.
“Well, Phillip claims hat he didn’t know the rules about cheating on a test. I caught him copying off Kyle Porter’s paper.”
“But, Mrs. Hodges” Phillip protested. “Kyle made it look so easy, and that kid has been bugging me ever since I came here, trying to get me in trouble nearly every day.”
“Mrs. Hodges,” Mr. Anderson interrupted. Phillip did know the rules. I explained them to him and his grandmother, and I also emphasized that cheating would not be tolerated.”
“I think Phillip and Kyle are both going to spend some time with me in detention this afternoon. Mr. Anderson, Will you call Phillip’s grandmother and let her know.”
‘I’d be happy to” Mr. Anderson said as he walked away.
Okay, I need to ask you one more question. If Kyle or anyone else was bothering you, why didn’t you come and tell me?”
Phillip looked at me with sad eyes. “ I didn’t want to be a tattle-tale. That wouldn’t be any good way to make friends.” It was the same answer Katherine had given me a few days before.
On one hand, my heart went out to Phillip. It was tough being the new kid, trying to fit in. However, he still had to suffer the consequences. I sighed. “I will see you after school.”
I was grading papers just after the last bell had rang when a knock sounded at my door. Looking up, I saw Phillip standing in the doorway.
“Come in Phillip and take a seat” I said digging out a blank quiz from a stack on my desk.
He sat down, but didn’t appear ready to work. “Mrs. Hodges, Can I talk to you before I start.
I nodded. “Sure Phillip, go ahead.”
“Before Kyle gets here, I just wanted to say that I’m really sorry for cheating on the quiz this morning. It was wrong, and I knew it.”
“That is a nice apology Phillip, but why did you cheat?”
Phillip looked down at his hands. Well, um two reasons really. First, I have trouble making friends. I have been to three different schools, and with each one, I try hard, but everyone thinks of me as the new kid. I don’t have a chance. I figured if I cheated, Kyle and the others would think I was cool.”
I sighed. “Nothing is “cool” about cheating Phillip. Look where it got you.”
“I know. But, I’m used to being in trouble, so it doesn’t bother me.”
Well, it bothers me Phillip. You are a smart boy if you would just use your brains for good instead of trying to get in trouble all the time.”
He looked up at me again. “I’m not smart Mrs. Hodges.” Phillip declared.
“Why do you say that?” I asked.
He seemed to be at a loss for words. “I-I-I can’t r-r-read” he stuttered.
I gasped. This was news to me. “Is that why you won’t participate in class discussions, or read the book?”
He nodded sheepishly. “I tried to read the book, honest I did. But, the words were too hard. I didn’t want to speak up because I am too embarrassed to ask for help. The kids would laugh at me. Everyone else knows how to read. You are one of the nicest teachers I have ever met.
Teachers at my other school would pass me just to get me out of their classes.”
I walked over to Phillip’s chair, and knelt down in front of him. “You know, I met your grandmother this morning. She came to see me because she was concerned. Does Grandma know you can’t read?”
“I don’t think so. She knows I don’t like to do homework though.”
I smiled. What kid in his right mind actually liked homework. Well, I think that I can help you out Phillip. What would you say, if I offered to tutor you a few days a week on your reading skills? No one would have to know.
He sat quietly, mulling the idea over. “Would you do that for me?”
“Sure! I said. Phillip, would you like school if you knew how to read?”
“Yes.” He responded.
I smiled again. Phillip was really a nice kid who wants to do the right thing, but sometimes finds that hard because of his academic situation. “I dug around on my desk for a phone number that I knew would help Phillip. “Phillip, I said unearthing a piece of paper from my grading pile, “Have you ever heard of a place called Sylvan Learning Center?”
He shrugged. “I’ve seen it on television. Why?” He asked.
I handed him the paper with the phone number on it. “I thought you might consider going there for tutoring a couple days a week.
He took the paper with a red face. “Gee, Mrs. Hodges, I don’t know.” He hedged.
No one would have to know about that either. Take a few days and think about all this.” I encouraged. “For now, let me read that quiz to you…”
Over the next few days, Phillip seemed a little hesitant, but more eager than before to participate with the work. He tried to respond to questions with the rest of the class. Phillip even stopped by my class during lunch one day and knocked on my door.
“Mrs. Hodges,” he said. “Can I come in”
“Sure” I responded. “What can I do for you?”
“Well, I was wondering…That is…Grandma and I were talking…"
“Yes Phillip” I asked encouragingly.
“Can you help me make that phone call” he asked timidly.
“Of course” I said warmly. “Thank you for trusting me to help you.”
“It’s better than being labeled a troublemaker, isn’t it?”
My first impression of Phillip is that he was blessed with ignorance. However, with a little help, I had a feeling that Phillip was going to succeed in life.
The Troublemaker
My first impression of Phillip was that he was blessed with ignorance. He arrived earlier on Tuesday morning, transferring from Meadowbrook Middle School in Arkansas to Lincoln Middle School in Oklahoma. Phillip had only been in my third period English Lit class for twenty minutes; but I knew he was going to become my most difficult student
Phillip sat in the back row with his brown hair in a ponytail and long bangs. I handed Phillip a copy of Pride and Prejudice. He took it and glanced at the cover with distaste. Have you ever read Pride and Prejudice, Phillip? I asked.
“ Mrs. Hodges, I ain’t never heard of the book!” Phillip declared loudly to the entire class. Several students erupted into a fit of giggles.
“Who knows.” That boy probably hasn’t even read an entire book in his whole life.” Kyle Porter teased softly.
“Class, be quiet!” I said sharply. The noise died down to a small roar. Phillip shoved the book aside. “I don’t got no use for books like this” He declared.
“I’m sorry you feel that way Phillip. Maybe you will change your mind as we start reading it.”
“I doubt it.” Phillip mumbled.
What was with this kid? I wondered silently. There is always one student who comes into my classroom each year who seems more challenging than the rest. It looked like I had my work cut out for me with Phillip.
The rest of the hour passed by quickly. Before I knew it, the bell had rung. “Be sure and read the first seventy-five pages before class tomorrow. Come prepared to discuss the assignment.”
A collective groan could be heard throughout the room as the students arose to leave. My blue eyes darted toward Phillip as I watched him walk out the door. He wore blue jeans that had several visible rips along the seams. Phillip’s green tee shirt also had a small hole in the left shoulder. Kids like him usually spelled T-R-O-U-B-L-E.
Phillip became the topic of many conversations around school that day. Students stared at Phillip as if he were from a foreign planet instead of another state. Teachers didn’t know what to make of him. A group of seventh and eighth graders were huddled near the teacher’s lounge whispering as I walked by.
“I bet Phillip shops at that Goodwill store downtown. Did you get a load of what he was wearing today?” whispered Cassie Waters.
“Hey, maybe we should call Phillip a Holy Roller! Jerome Michael’s joked.
“His clothes would fit that description!” Kyle Porter whispered.
Pretending not to hear their rude comments, I quickly pushed open the teacher’s lounge door to find more of the same remarks coming from several teachers. “Wow! What a piece of work Phillip is.” Mrs. Adams, the History teacher said. “He doesn’t like to work, that’s for sure.”
“Tell me about it!” Mr. Grimes, the Science teacher moaned. “I asked Phillip to dissect a frog in the lab, and he refused.
“Phillip won’t play basketball in Gym.” Coach Caldwell announced. “He is a lazy bum!”
It seemed the teacher’s assessment of Phillip were worse than the kids’. It made me disgusted that people would treat a new student like this. “Okay, Phillip does have faults, but that doesn’t mean that he can’t learn” I spoke up quietly.
All the teachers sat in silence, shaking their heads.
Most all my students came to class on Wednesday morning with a copy of Pride and Prejudice. However, I should have known Phillip wasn’t prepared.
“Gee Mrs. Hodges, I left my book at home” Phillip said. “I guess that means I can’t follow along with the class.
I sighed. Something told me this wasn’t the only excuse Phillip used to get out of doing his homework. “For today, pull your desk over beside Brian’s and you two can share…”I paused before adding, “try not to let it happen again Phillip.”
He looked at Brian without a care in the world. “Sorry Mrs. Hodges.” Phillip said.
At least Phillip apologized. His organizational skills were terrible; yet, Philip’s manners were great. My class discussed their own interpretations of the main characters. Some students participated fully in the discussion while others remained silent, yet attentive. However, Phillip didn’t fit either description, as I caught him staring out the window.
“Earth to Phillip.” I said, after asking him a question.
No response was given. Phillip sat still, looking out the window in silence. Several students giggled.
I walked over to his desk. “Phillip, Who was the youngest Bennett daughter? “
Phillip turned toward me with a blank look on his face. “The kid must be deaf, Mrs. Hodges!” Kyle Porter teased.
I gave Kyle a stern look. “That’s enough! One more remark, and you will be in detention, Kyle”
“Sorry,” Kyle mumbled sheepishly.
The bell rang just then. The students arose from their chairs chattering to one another. “Class, please read pages 75-150 for tomorrow. Have a good day.”
I was going to ask Phillip to stay after class, but he made a rather hasty exit. He was gone before I could talk to him. I sighed. Oh well, tomorrow is another day.
Later that day, I walked down the hall to the office where I turned in my attendance sheets. Upon entering, I saw Phillip sitting in the reception area.
“Hello Phillip!” I said.
He mumbled something unintelligible. “What are you doing here?”
Phillip narrowed his dark eyes. “Hey, lay off okay, lady!” Phillip declared.
Phillip is one angry kid. I thought. Before I could say any more, Mr. Anderson came out his office. “You can come in now, Phillip. First, please apologize to Mrs. Hodges.”
Phillip’s eyes were downcast as he mumbled the apology. “Sorry, Mrs. Hodges.”
He marched into the office along with Mr. Anderson without another word. The school secretary Rhonda suddenly became busy with paperwork, but I knew she had listened to the exchange between us. I was never one to start gossip; however, Phillip intrigued me. He displayed nice manners sometimes. However, Phillip’s attitude needed a major makeover.
Rhonda knew I was watching her. “So,” she began, cracking her gum loudly, “Do you want to know what I heard about this kid.”
I shook my head. “Well, I don’t listen-"
“This is not a rumor!” she said hotly. “I overheard Phillip’s grandmother tell Mr. Anderson Phillip had been kicked out of three different schools before he came to Lincoln. For fighting, swearing, AND smoking.” She emphasized.
“But, Phillip is a nice kid” I argued.
“Mrs. Hodges”, Rhonda pointed out gently. Nice kids don’t get called to the principal’s office for smoking in the boy’s bathroom? Do they?
Before I could answer, Mr. Anderson’s door opened, and Phillip came out, looking disgusted. “Rhonda, can you send a memo to Phillip Barker’s teachers, and ask them to send all of his class assignments for tomorrow to Mrs. Spencer? Our friend Phillip is going to spend the day thinking about what he did during ISS.
‘Yes sir.” Rhonda answered.
I turned to leave as Phillip sat down in the chair again, probably waiting for a ride home. I saw Phillip glance at me as I started out the door. The look he gave me was a mixture of disgust, embarrassment and fear. Phillip got caught at something he knew wasn’t right. The fear came from what was going to happen to him. Was Phillip afraid of being disciplined at home? I didn’t know. However, I saw something else in Phillip’s dark eyes. They seemed to be pleading, Help me.
My English Lit students seemed relieved when I called roll on Thursday morning. Phillip didn’t answer, of course. This made the others guess as to where he was.
“I heard that he got busted yesterday!” Randy Thompson announced.
“Oh yeah.” This information piqued Jill Lawson’s interest. “What for?”
“Well, Principal Anderson went to the john yesterday, and when he came out, the air smelled of smoke. There sat Phillip puffing a cigarette” Randy responded.
“Wow!” Kyle Porter put in, shaking her head.
“Well,” Katherine Ramsey said, “I hope Phillip learns his lesson, wherever he is. I went without lunch all day yesterday!” she exploded. The boy took all my lunch money!”
“Katherine!” I exclaimed. “Why didn’t you come and tell me or another teacher?” I asked, feeling badly for her.
“Mrs. Hodges,” Katherine explained patiently. I didn’t want to be a tattletale.
“Don’t worry Katherine.” Kyle said. “I will beat him up.”
Teachers hear different types of conversations among their students. Kyle’s comment was one I wish that I hadn’t heard. “Kyle, violence is not the answer,” I said.
“What is?” Kyle retorted.
“Phillip is a loser!” Randy said.
Well, that is when we have to see the good in Phillip. Everyone has a good side somewhere.” I told the class. “Now, let’s begin today’s lesson…”
Despite his absence, I couldn’t get Phillip out of my mind the rest of the day. How can I help Phillip? I was going to have to come up with a plan before he found himself in trouble again.
By the time I arrived at school Friday morning, I had an idea concerning Phillip. Rhonda said he had a grandmother. I realized that Mr. Anderson had probably talked to her concerning the boy’s bathroom incident. However, I called Rose Barker in for a chat about her grandson myself. Rose was a nice woman in her mid-sixties with flaming red air and blue-green eyes. She looked sad while apologizing for Phillip’s behavior. As Rose continued talking, I began to understand the reason for Phillip’s obnoxious behavior. His mother died from lung cancer when Phillip was ten, and his father left Phillip when he was two. Rose had also lost her husband two years before in a car accident. It was no wonder Phillip was acting out. The boy was grieving for the family he had lost, even though Rose gave him all the love and attention that he needed. So, I offered to help Phillip with his work a couple of times a week after school, hoping that would solve the problem.
Some teachers can work miracles. I hoped that would prove true with Phillip.
By the time third hour rolled around, I was anxious to carry out my plan with Phillip. The students were chatting and laughing with one another as the bell rang, singling the start of class.
“Good morning everyone!” I said brightly.
Everyone was still talking. “Okay, place all books, notes, and binders on the floor. It is time to see how much you know about Pride and Prejudice. We are having a quiz.” I announced.
That got the class’ attention quickly. The students exchanged panicked looks with each other.
“If you have been paying attention, you will do just fine” I said calmly, placing a piece of paper on each student’s desk. Now, turn your papers over and begin.” I instructed.
The only sound that could be heard from then on were pencils scratching against paper. I walked around the room, and noticed Phillip had dropped his pencil. I bent over to pick it up. As I handed it back to him, I saw that Phillip’s eyes had wandered over to Kyle Porter’s desk across the isle. “Okay boys, that will be enough.” I took both of their papers away.”
“Hey! What did I do?” Kyle exclaimed.
“Yeah! Why did you do that?” Phillip asked.
“It looked to me like you were copying off Kyle’s paper Phillip, and Kyle, you are just as guilty for having the paper in plain sight.”
“I didn’t even know he was looking at my paper!” Kyle stood up from his chair with his fists balled in Phillip’s direction.
I knew I needed to do something before Kyle’s temper exploded. “Okay boys, both of you come with me. You two can make up this test after school in my room. For now, let’s step into the hallway.
“No fair Mrs. Hodges. I’ll miss basketball practice.” Kyle said angrily.
“Maybe you should have thought of that before letting Phillip look off your paper. Let’s go boys.”
. I marched the boys to the front of the room, leaving the rest of my shocked students to finish the quiz. “I’ll be right back. Mrs. Adams will come in shortly, so don’t any of the rest of you try to cheat.”
Once Mrs. Adams was inside my room, I was left to deal with one angry boy in the hallway. However, I noticed that Phillip was unusually quiet. Did he actually understand the seriousness of cheating? “Okay guys, I want to hear the truth. Phillip, were you trying to copy off Kyle’s paper?”
Phillip was silent for a moment, looking down at the holes in the knees of his jeans as he spoke.
“Well”, I said putting my hands on my hips. “Were you?”
Phillip glanced at me. “Yes, Mrs. Hodges.”
I put my hands on my temples. Phillip had messed up again. “Why Phillip? Didn’t you know it was wrong?”
In answer, Phillip shrugged his shoulders
Meanwhile, Kyle mumbled to himself
“Kyle, that’s enough. Go back to class, and I will see you in detention this afternoon. Maybe it will teach you to hide your paper for another person’s view.”
Kyle opened the door mumbling. After it closed, I said, “Phillip, that is an interesting statement. Mr. Anderson is a fair man who goes over the handbook with each new student.”
I saw Mr. Anderson walking down the hall just then. “Here he comes now. I am just going to ask him.”
“Go ahead, see if I care.” Phillip responded.
“Do we have a problem here, Mrs. Hodges?” Mr. Anderson asked.
“Well, Phillip claims hat he didn’t know the rules about cheating on a test. I caught him copying off Kyle Porter’s paper.”
“But, Mrs. Hodges” Phillip protested. “Kyle made it look so easy, and that kid has been bugging me ever since I came here, trying to get me in trouble nearly every day.”
“Mrs. Hodges,” Mr. Anderson interrupted. Phillip did know the rules. I explained them to him and his grandmother, and I also emphasized that cheating would not be tolerated.”
“I think Phillip and Kyle are both going to spend some time with me in detention this afternoon. Mr. Anderson, Will you call Phillip’s grandmother and let her know.”
‘I’d be happy to” Mr. Anderson said as he walked away.
Okay, I need to ask you one more question. If Kyle or anyone else was bothering you, why didn’t you come and tell me?”
Phillip looked at me with sad eyes. “ I didn’t want to be a tattle-tale. That wouldn’t be any good way to make friends.” It was the same answer Katherine had given me a few days before.
On one hand, my heart went out to Phillip. It was tough being the new kid, trying to fit in. However, he still had to suffer the consequences. I sighed. “I will see you after school.”
I was grading papers just after the last bell had rang when a knock sounded at my door. Looking up, I saw Phillip standing in the doorway.
“Come in Phillip and take a seat” I said digging out a blank quiz from a stack on my desk.
He sat down, but didn’t appear ready to work. “Mrs. Hodges, Can I talk to you before I start.
I nodded. “Sure Phillip, go ahead.”
“Before Kyle gets here, I just wanted to say that I’m really sorry for cheating on the quiz this morning. It was wrong, and I knew it.”
“That is a nice apology Phillip, but why did you cheat?”
Phillip looked down at his hands. Well, um two reasons really. First, I have trouble making friends. I have been to three different schools, and with each one, I try hard, but everyone thinks of me as the new kid. I don’t have a chance. I figured if I cheated, Kyle and the others would think I was cool.”
I sighed. “Nothing is “cool” about cheating Phillip. Look where it got you.”
“I know. But, I’m used to being in trouble, so it doesn’t bother me.”
Well, it bothers me Phillip. You are a smart boy if you would just use your brains for good instead of trying to get in trouble all the time.”
He looked up at me again. “I’m not smart Mrs. Hodges.” Phillip declared.
“Why do you say that?” I asked.
He seemed to be at a loss for words. “I-I-I can’t r-r-read” he stuttered.
I gasped. This was news to me. “Is that why you won’t participate in class discussions, or read the book?”
He nodded sheepishly. “I tried to read the book, honest I did. But, the words were too hard. I didn’t want to speak up because I am too embarrassed to ask for help. The kids would laugh at me. Everyone else knows how to read. You are one of the nicest teachers I have ever met.
Teachers at my other school would pass me just to get me out of their classes.”
I walked over to Phillip’s chair, and knelt down in front of him. “You know, I met your grandmother this morning. She came to see me because she was concerned. Does Grandma know you can’t read?”
“I don’t think so. She knows I don’t like to do homework though.”
I smiled. What kid in his right mind actually liked homework. Well, I think that I can help you out Phillip. What would you say, if I offered to tutor you a few days a week on your reading skills? No one would have to know.
He sat quietly, mulling the idea over. “Would you do that for me?”
“Sure! I said. Phillip, would you like school if you knew how to read?”
“Yes.” He responded.
I smiled again. Phillip was really a nice kid who wants to do the right thing, but sometimes finds that hard because of his academic situation. “I dug around on my desk for a phone number that I knew would help Phillip. “Phillip, I said unearthing a piece of paper from my grading pile, “Have you ever heard of a place called Sylvan Learning Center?”
He shrugged. “I’ve seen it on television. Why?” He asked.
I handed him the paper with the phone number on it. “I thought you might consider going there for tutoring a couple days a week.
He took the paper with a red face. “Gee, Mrs. Hodges, I don’t know.” He hedged.
No one would have to know about that either. Take a few days and think about all this.” I encouraged. “For now, let me read that quiz to you…”
Over the next few days, Phillip seemed a little hesitant, but more eager than before to participate with the work. He tried to respond to questions with the rest of the class. Phillip even stopped by my class during lunch one day and knocked on my door.
“Mrs. Hodges,” he said. “Can I come in”
“Sure” I responded. “What can I do for you?”
“Well, I was wondering…That is…Grandma and I were talking…"
“Yes Phillip” I asked encouragingly.
“Can you help me make that phone call” he asked timidly.
“Of course” I said warmly. “Thank you for trusting me to help you.”
“It’s better than being labeled a troublemaker, isn’t it?”
My first impression of Phillip is that he was blessed with ignorance. However, with a little help, I had a feeling that Phillip was going to succeed in life.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
The Latest Penny Brown News
H.K Gilbert and SPBA
Hello everybody! I am so happy at this moment. "I Sit In A Wheelchair....But I Will Be Okay has been getting som attention in the past few weeks. First, on October 4th, a nice lady named H.K. Gilbert posted a very nice review over "I Sit In A Wheelchair....But I Will Be Okay. In fact, this review brought tears to my eyes. Mrs. Gilbert is a blogger from Louisiana. To read the interview in it's entirety, please go to www.hkgilbert.com Click on my blogs to read the interview. Mrs. Gilbert writes children's books based on Barkley the Secret Service Dog.
Okay....my other piece of news concerning Penny Brown is the SBPRA (Strategic Book Publishing Rights Agency) featured Michelle and I as an Author Success Story. Please go to supra.com/success stories, and read the article entitled Brittany Crawford and The Special Olympics.
Michelle and I would like to thank each of you for sticking with us, and supporting "I Sit In A Wheelchair....But I Will Be Okay." I feel very blessed to meet people who still enjoy the book, even though it has been out for almost two years. We have not abandoned Penny by any means. Michelle is taking her time, making sure her illustrations are picture perfect for Penny's second adventure. We also are exploring our publishing options at this time. So, please continue to be patient with us.
As aways, Michelle and I are eager to speak to schools, churches or anyone who will listen about Penny Brown. If you are interested in having us come speak or sign books at your even, please contact Brittany taz_lover74330@yahoo.com. Have a good day.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Some Exciting News!!!!!!
Hello! How is everybody? For some reason, I can't get my blog entries to post on blogger.com anymore, so i hopethis works. The following ntry has nothing to do with Penny Brown we are still wooking on the seconmd book. Finding a publisher who is a ight fit for us takes time and patience, so please, just bear with us.
While waiting on Michelle to finish drawing and in between trying to find publishers for book #2, I decided to pursue some of my own writing. Las wek, I was surfing the web, when I came across Readers Diget.com . They were holding a contest entitled "Your Life in 15 Words or Less." I thought about this for quite awile. Most of my life experieinces come from taking cae of my Gradmother with Alzheimer's Disease. Grandma and I battled this togetherfor six years, as caregiver and caregivee. A lot of this was sad. I was often strssed beyond belief, and there were some funny moments too.
I wrote a story for Readers Digest called "Dream....Believe...Acieve." The story is about the time Grandma lost her detures. Sandy (our caregiver) tried to help us find them. She even looked in the trah can. By the end of the day, I was beginnig to loose hope that we would ever find them. I also began to pray because I knew dentures would be more than either Grandma or I could afford. Sandy had looked in a blue cup that Grandma left sittingon the counter. No dentures. The next morning as I was getting rady to call the dentist, Granma found the issing dentures in the same cup Sandy had looked in the day before. The inscriptionon the cup read Dream....Believe....Achieve.
I submitted this story to Reader Digest last wek. By Friday, I recieved ane-mail frmo the editors saying , "Your Story has Captured our attention." Unbelievable!!!!! The story is posted on Facebook.
I am asking all of you who might read this to go "Like" Readers Digest on Facebook. Then, go to the contest tab on the left side of the page. Ten type Brittany in the search for entries. Click Dream....Believe...Achieve in the searchbox, and read it and vote. I am in the running for cash prizes. Thanks in advance.
While waiting on Michelle to finish drawing and in between trying to find publishers for book #2, I decided to pursue some of my own writing. Las wek, I was surfing the web, when I came across Readers Diget.com . They were holding a contest entitled "Your Life in 15 Words or Less." I thought about this for quite awile. Most of my life experieinces come from taking cae of my Gradmother with Alzheimer's Disease. Grandma and I battled this togetherfor six years, as caregiver and caregivee. A lot of this was sad. I was often strssed beyond belief, and there were some funny moments too.
I wrote a story for Readers Digest called "Dream....Believe...Acieve." The story is about the time Grandma lost her detures. Sandy (our caregiver) tried to help us find them. She even looked in the trah can. By the end of the day, I was beginnig to loose hope that we would ever find them. I also began to pray because I knew dentures would be more than either Grandma or I could afford. Sandy had looked in a blue cup that Grandma left sittingon the counter. No dentures. The next morning as I was getting rady to call the dentist, Granma found the issing dentures in the same cup Sandy had looked in the day before. The inscriptionon the cup read Dream....Believe....Achieve.
I submitted this story to Reader Digest last wek. By Friday, I recieved ane-mail frmo the editors saying , "Your Story has Captured our attention." Unbelievable!!!!! The story is posted on Facebook.
I am asking all of you who might read this to go "Like" Readers Digest on Facebook. Then, go to the contest tab on the left side of the page. Ten type Brittany in the search for entries. Click Dream....Believe...Achieve in the searchbox, and read it and vote. I am in the running for cash prizes. Thanks in advance.
Some Unexpected Weekend Sales
WOW!!!!! Ithas been a long time since I updated this blog. I am ver sorry about that. The truth is....there has not been much going on in the Penny Brown wold lately. Michelle is working hard on illustrating the second book in The Peny Brown Series. While I m hesitant to reveal the title, I will tell everyone that a member of Penny Brown's family deals with a serious illnss. The second book is lose to my heart, and I am excited about it.
With that being said Michelle and I are also looking in to publishers. We love Strategic, but wanted to explore all the options open to us If anyone has self-published a book, it can be difficult to get into the different venue to sell that book. So, currently, I am researching publishers to determine the right fit for Penny Brown.
I was excited because I sold two books in Pryor, Oklahoma two weeks ago. I leared that it pays to have copies of books with you at all times, even if you don't expect to sell anything, someone may surprise you.
As always, we are loking for plaes to read and sign copies of the wheelchair book. If someone would like to host an event for us, please contact me at taz_lover74330@yahoo.com
With that being said Michelle and I are also looking in to publishers. We love Strategic, but wanted to explore all the options open to us If anyone has self-published a book, it can be difficult to get into the different venue to sell that book. So, currently, I am researching publishers to determine the right fit for Penny Brown.
I was excited because I sold two books in Pryor, Oklahoma two weeks ago. I leared that it pays to have copies of books with you at all times, even if you don't expect to sell anything, someone may surprise you.
As always, we are loking for plaes to read and sign copies of the wheelchair book. If someone would like to host an event for us, please contact me at taz_lover74330@yahoo.com
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Life is Hard Sometimes...But I Will Be Okay
Hello everybody!
Is everyone enjoying the hot weather? I don't know about you all, but I am ready for some rain. It's too hot to do anything outside, and the Oklahoma kids are going back to school this week. Michelle is starting a new job in addition to her illustrations she is doing for me. Michelle's Mom is going back to workl. I will focus more on my writing. Tomorrow will be a brand new begining for all of us in this house.
Writing is more than just writing. I also research places to advertise about Penny Brown. Last week, I responded to an ad from the Reporter Connection. Mrs. Yvonne Wu is the CEO of a blog/magazine called Women Connect. It spotlights reviews about books, music, fashion, and she has a section devoted to children's books. I sent her an e-mail, explainng about Penny Brown, so told me to write an article, and she would publish it. I am pleased to say the article is featured on her site Women Connect. Follow this link: http://www.womenconnectonline.com Please Click on the Children's books tab to read it. Please share with me your thoughs about the article.
I love doing interviews, so if anyone knows anybody who is looking for a children's author to interview, I would be interested. Please feel free to contact me. taz_lover74330@yahoo.com
Gotta go.......Think i hear my pen calling me. Until next time, stay cool.
Is everyone enjoying the hot weather? I don't know about you all, but I am ready for some rain. It's too hot to do anything outside, and the Oklahoma kids are going back to school this week. Michelle is starting a new job in addition to her illustrations she is doing for me. Michelle's Mom is going back to workl. I will focus more on my writing. Tomorrow will be a brand new begining for all of us in this house.
Writing is more than just writing. I also research places to advertise about Penny Brown. Last week, I responded to an ad from the Reporter Connection. Mrs. Yvonne Wu is the CEO of a blog/magazine called Women Connect. It spotlights reviews about books, music, fashion, and she has a section devoted to children's books. I sent her an e-mail, explainng about Penny Brown, so told me to write an article, and she would publish it. I am pleased to say the article is featured on her site Women Connect. Follow this link: http://www.womenconnectonline.com Please Click on the Children's books tab to read it. Please share with me your thoughs about the article.
I love doing interviews, so if anyone knows anybody who is looking for a children's author to interview, I would be interested. Please feel free to contact me. taz_lover74330@yahoo.com
Gotta go.......Think i hear my pen calling me. Until next time, stay cool.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
A new idea for Penny
Hello all!
Writing is an amazing experience. Ever since I moved to Sperry, I have been looking for new ideas for children's books. Michelle is creating the illustrations as fast as she can. Ten new Penny ideas and titles were revealed in the last blog entry. However, I didn't want to get to far ahead in te series without waiting for her wondrful drawings. This week, I have tossed around ideas for children's short stories, and books. It occured to me that I would like to try my hand at writing a childrens chapter book. Do you think I can do it? Yes I can!
My outline is rough, but I cannot wait to start on this story. This book is going to be a spin-off of the Penny series involving Penny Brown's new older friend Pheobe. The working title for this book is The Slumber Party Blues, and target age range is for 7-11 year olds. Summary: Peobhe invites her new friend Penny Brown to a slumber party at her house. Penny is excited and plans on going, but just days before the big bash, Pheobe calls and "uninvites" her without giving her a reason. Penny is sad about this. Can Penny discover what it is and what can she do about it.
So what do you think? Is it a good idea or not? I want to write a chapter book that includes some illustrations. The theme still centers around Penny Brown's character Making a bad situation bearable. So, please give me some opinions, and I will alk to you later!
Writing is an amazing experience. Ever since I moved to Sperry, I have been looking for new ideas for children's books. Michelle is creating the illustrations as fast as she can. Ten new Penny ideas and titles were revealed in the last blog entry. However, I didn't want to get to far ahead in te series without waiting for her wondrful drawings. This week, I have tossed around ideas for children's short stories, and books. It occured to me that I would like to try my hand at writing a childrens chapter book. Do you think I can do it? Yes I can!
My outline is rough, but I cannot wait to start on this story. This book is going to be a spin-off of the Penny series involving Penny Brown's new older friend Pheobe. The working title for this book is The Slumber Party Blues, and target age range is for 7-11 year olds. Summary: Peobhe invites her new friend Penny Brown to a slumber party at her house. Penny is excited and plans on going, but just days before the big bash, Pheobe calls and "uninvites" her without giving her a reason. Penny is sad about this. Can Penny discover what it is and what can she do about it.
So what do you think? Is it a good idea or not? I want to write a chapter book that includes some illustrations. The theme still centers around Penny Brown's character Making a bad situation bearable. So, please give me some opinions, and I will alk to you later!
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Penny's New Working Titles
Hi everyone!
Now that I m settled in my new place in Sperry, Oklahoma, I will be paying a lot more attention to Penny Brown Book series. As some of you already know, I have three books completed......just waiting on my trusty friend and illustrator Michelle to finish those drawings. In the meantime, I have decided to make a list of upcoming subjects/working titles for Penny Brown. See what you all think, and if you have any suggestions, please let me know.
I Am Sad Gigi Forgets...But I Will Be Okay Penny's Great-grandmother deals with a serious illness.
I Am So Homesick...But I Will Be Okay (Penny's Road Trip Adventure)
Penny being put in Special Ed
I Am Angry with Gigi...Bt I Will Be Okay (A Book about Death/dyin
Pennyand her fear of thunderstorms
Penny's house burning down Dealing with loss and moving on
Penny helping a neighbor in need
Penny nd her family moving
Penny taking responsibility for her actions.
Penny learning to get along with people
Penny gets a puppy........the responsibility book
These are just ideas that I am tossing around..please feel free to add more.
Thanks! Untill next time
Now that I m settled in my new place in Sperry, Oklahoma, I will be paying a lot more attention to Penny Brown Book series. As some of you already know, I have three books completed......just waiting on my trusty friend and illustrator Michelle to finish those drawings. In the meantime, I have decided to make a list of upcoming subjects/working titles for Penny Brown. See what you all think, and if you have any suggestions, please let me know.
I Am Sad Gigi Forgets...But I Will Be Okay Penny's Great-grandmother deals with a serious illness.
I Am So Homesick...But I Will Be Okay (Penny's Road Trip Adventure)
Penny being put in Special Ed
I Am Angry with Gigi...Bt I Will Be Okay (A Book about Death/dyin
Pennyand her fear of thunderstorms
Penny's house burning down Dealing with loss and moving on
Penny helping a neighbor in need
Penny nd her family moving
Penny taking responsibility for her actions.
Penny learning to get along with people
Penny gets a puppy........the responsibility book
These are just ideas that I am tossing around..please feel free to add more.
Thanks! Untill next time
Friday, July 1, 2011
I am back to blogging
Hello everyone-
Did you miss me? It feels like a long time since I have written on this blog, and technically , it has been. Due to personal family issues, I felt that I needed to take a break from blogging for awhile.........but I am all settled now, and promise to keep The Penny Brown Adventures updated at least once a week.
Not much has went on with the Penny Brown series since May. Again.......tha is my fault. I am back, and ready to do some signings for "I Sit In A Wheelchair....But I Will Be Okay." As you might rcall, the last one Michelle and I did was at the Oklahoma Special Olympics State Games in Stillwater. It was a lot of fun, but I am now ready to get back to signing some books. If any one knows any place in and arround Tulsa/Owasso Oklahoma....please send me an e-mail.
I have Book #2 completed, and just waiting on Michelle to finish the artwork for it This book hit close to hom because it deals with personal illness within family. Anoyone with children need this book becase it explains the illness in simple direct terms. I hope to have it published and on shelves by October.......we will se wha happens.
I also have Book #3 in the Penny series completed........needs a little editing done, and of copurse Michelle's wonderful artistic touches. We will make it happen.
Remember, you can purchase I Sit In A Wheelchair on www.amazon.com www.barnesandnoble.com and www.booksamillion.com (The book is also on Kindle) and will be on the Nook in the comming weeks.
Please drop me a line on Facebook. Or comment on here. Michelle and I would love to hear from you.
Did you miss me? It feels like a long time since I have written on this blog, and technically , it has been. Due to personal family issues, I felt that I needed to take a break from blogging for awhile.........but I am all settled now, and promise to keep The Penny Brown Adventures updated at least once a week.
Not much has went on with the Penny Brown series since May. Again.......tha is my fault. I am back, and ready to do some signings for "I Sit In A Wheelchair....But I Will Be Okay." As you might rcall, the last one Michelle and I did was at the Oklahoma Special Olympics State Games in Stillwater. It was a lot of fun, but I am now ready to get back to signing some books. If any one knows any place in and arround Tulsa/Owasso Oklahoma....please send me an e-mail.
I have Book #2 completed, and just waiting on Michelle to finish the artwork for it This book hit close to hom because it deals with personal illness within family. Anoyone with children need this book becase it explains the illness in simple direct terms. I hope to have it published and on shelves by October.......we will se wha happens.
I also have Book #3 in the Penny series completed........needs a little editing done, and of copurse Michelle's wonderful artistic touches. We will make it happen.
Remember, you can purchase I Sit In A Wheelchair on www.amazon.com www.barnesandnoble.com and www.booksamillion.com (The book is also on Kindle) and will be on the Nook in the comming weeks.
Please drop me a line on Facebook. Or comment on here. Michelle and I would love to hear from you.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
The Special Olympics May 11-13th
Hi everybody!
I have been back from my latest Penny Brown Book signing since Sunday. Michelle and I had an opportunity to sell copies of I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay" at the Special Olympics State games in Stillwater, OK. I don't know about Michelle, but I had a wonderful time! We were of course hanging around with The Sperry Pirate team, coached by Michelle's Mom Deanna Oakley.
One of the best thnigs I like about the games themselves is that it gives kids a chance to participate in sports, that otherwise never would have an opportunity. Some of these special kids come to school every day with not much more than the clothes on their backs. Many of these kids have medical problems that are beyond their control. However, when these special kids compete, it gives them a sense of control, and the feelling that they can do something positive in life. They may not win,or even come close at times, but just being able to participate is half the fun.
I cannot say enough good about The Sperry Pirate team. They played their hearts out. Deanna has done wonderful work with them. She also has some dedicated patents and aides who help out when needed. We came home with a gold medal a few silver, and a few bronze this year, but more important the kids felt a sense of accomplishment when crossing the finish line. These kids have inspired ME to participate next year.......and I am the biggest klutz on the planet! So, we will see what happens.
Michelle and I only sold ten copies of "I Sit In A Wheelchair....But I Will Be Okay". The weather hindered us a bit. We went from being windblown to sunburt to freezing. This is okay.....we will do better next year for sure.
I will go for now...before I close, I just wanted to say I am proud to be an honorary Pirate!!!!!
I have been back from my latest Penny Brown Book signing since Sunday. Michelle and I had an opportunity to sell copies of I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay" at the Special Olympics State games in Stillwater, OK. I don't know about Michelle, but I had a wonderful time! We were of course hanging around with The Sperry Pirate team, coached by Michelle's Mom Deanna Oakley.
One of the best thnigs I like about the games themselves is that it gives kids a chance to participate in sports, that otherwise never would have an opportunity. Some of these special kids come to school every day with not much more than the clothes on their backs. Many of these kids have medical problems that are beyond their control. However, when these special kids compete, it gives them a sense of control, and the feelling that they can do something positive in life. They may not win,or even come close at times, but just being able to participate is half the fun.
I cannot say enough good about The Sperry Pirate team. They played their hearts out. Deanna has done wonderful work with them. She also has some dedicated patents and aides who help out when needed. We came home with a gold medal a few silver, and a few bronze this year, but more important the kids felt a sense of accomplishment when crossing the finish line. These kids have inspired ME to participate next year.......and I am the biggest klutz on the planet! So, we will see what happens.
Michelle and I only sold ten copies of "I Sit In A Wheelchair....But I Will Be Okay". The weather hindered us a bit. We went from being windblown to sunburt to freezing. This is okay.....we will do better next year for sure.
I will go for now...before I close, I just wanted to say I am proud to be an honorary Pirate!!!!!
Monday, May 9, 2011
A Cute E-mail
I have been meaning to share this on my blog for a few weeks, but life has seemed to keep me from blogging lately. Michelle and I recently sat in on a panel discussion called "The Sperry Connection." This is a panel made up of the two of us and another author. These local authors all have ties to Sperry in some way.
That night after Michelle and I returned from the panel discussion, hewr mother Deanna received a cute e-mail that was meant for us. Here is the letter exactly as we recieved it.
Hi!
My name is Kelli. I am 10 years old. You and your friend were here at my school recently. I am from Sperry Intermideate. I hacve a question for you. Are you Miss Crawford or Miss Oakley (Our business cards list two seperate e-mail addresses.) I think I should have asked my Mom for ten dollars to buy your book. I like to read. Anyways, e-mail me back sometime.
Love, Kelli
This e-mail just made our day. Thanks Kelli You Rock!
That night after Michelle and I returned from the panel discussion, hewr mother Deanna received a cute e-mail that was meant for us. Here is the letter exactly as we recieved it.
Hi!
My name is Kelli. I am 10 years old. You and your friend were here at my school recently. I am from Sperry Intermideate. I hacve a question for you. Are you Miss Crawford or Miss Oakley (Our business cards list two seperate e-mail addresses.) I think I should have asked my Mom for ten dollars to buy your book. I like to read. Anyways, e-mail me back sometime.
Love, Kelli
This e-mail just made our day. Thanks Kelli You Rock!
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Big News: Penny Brown Now on Kindle
Hello friends:
I am so excited that I can hardly stand it today. "I Sit in A Wheelchair....But I Will Be Okay" is now on Kindle!!! That's right, my friends, Penny Brown is advancing in the technological age. The Kindle version of the book is only five dollars. Please go to www.amazon.com, and download my book.
Some of you may wonder why I am putting Penny Brown on Kindle. During a radio interview I had done for Blog Talk Radio last year, someone had asked during a chat session, since the book focuses on handicapped children, will I release the book in braille or any any format that would make it easily accessible. Honestly, that is the first time, I had even thought about it. The listener's comments did make sense though. Some handicapped children and adults for that matter may have a difficult time reading a traditional paperback. I did some research, and decided it was worth a shot.
I do not know of one child who owns a Kindle. However, I know several parents who do. Kindles are nice to take on long car or airplane trips because parents can read about Penny's adventure to the children in order to make the time pass faster. The paper back bersion of "I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay has done well since it came out a little over a year ago, but I am always looking for ways to get the true message of the book out there. (Children can do anything they set their mind to) I feel that Kindles will over ride paperback books in time. Technology holds the key to the doors of the future. So, I thought Penny might as well move along with it.
So, if you will, please consider putting the book on a Kindle for a child. You will be giving children a gift that lasts a lifetime.
I am so excited that I can hardly stand it today. "I Sit in A Wheelchair....But I Will Be Okay" is now on Kindle!!! That's right, my friends, Penny Brown is advancing in the technological age. The Kindle version of the book is only five dollars. Please go to www.amazon.com, and download my book.
Some of you may wonder why I am putting Penny Brown on Kindle. During a radio interview I had done for Blog Talk Radio last year, someone had asked during a chat session, since the book focuses on handicapped children, will I release the book in braille or any any format that would make it easily accessible. Honestly, that is the first time, I had even thought about it. The listener's comments did make sense though. Some handicapped children and adults for that matter may have a difficult time reading a traditional paperback. I did some research, and decided it was worth a shot.
I do not know of one child who owns a Kindle. However, I know several parents who do. Kindles are nice to take on long car or airplane trips because parents can read about Penny's adventure to the children in order to make the time pass faster. The paper back bersion of "I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay has done well since it came out a little over a year ago, but I am always looking for ways to get the true message of the book out there. (Children can do anything they set their mind to) I feel that Kindles will over ride paperback books in time. Technology holds the key to the doors of the future. So, I thought Penny might as well move along with it.
So, if you will, please consider putting the book on a Kindle for a child. You will be giving children a gift that lasts a lifetime.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
The Oklahoma Mini Book Tour April 14-16th
Hello everyone!
Here I am back home safe and sound in Cecil, Arkansas. Toward the end of last week, I embarked on a book signing extravaganza with my illustrator and best friend Michelle Oakley. We had a BLAST!!!!
Thursday, April 14th I began my day very early (3:00 A.M. to catch a ride with my book club friend Donna and her husband Larry. Donna was catching a plane to Ohio to visit her Mom. Therefore we had to be at the airport by 7:00 A.M. Once Larry and I dropped Donna off, Larry dropped me off at Michelle's house in Sperry. (So what if he took a few wrong turns. All that mattered is that I got there in one piece. Thanks Larry and Donna for the ride.
Michelle and i baby-sat her nephew Gavin. What a cutie he is! I just love him. Thursday night, Michelle and I, along with her Mom Deanna and her sister Susan (and of course Gavin) attended The Little Lighthouse Resource Fair. What an adventure that was. Skies had looked threatening before we left the house, but Michelle and I beingthe dedicated professionals we are, went on our way. The Little Lighthouse had a table set up for our book. However, we were only there ten minutes when the tornado sirens sounded in Tulsa County! YIKES!!!! (I am deathly afraid of tornadoes!) The LLH staff ushered us in an office. I took my book copies and managed to talk to some people in the storm shelter. By the time, we were released, we had missed 30 minutes of the event. Not all was lost when someone purchased a book, and we handed out a LOT of information. So, the lesson for the day: Sometimes, there are things in life we can't control, but we have to keep on keeping on!
Friday, April 15th-Michelle and I arrived at Sperry Public Schools with books in tow by 9:15 A.M. We were a part of a very special author question and answer session called "The Sperry Connection." All of the authors/illustrators who were invited had some connection to Sperry. The panel included Michelle and myself, plus a lady named Rhonda Gaynor, a a Sperry High School Graduate who has written and published "Debbie the Duck. She brought real live ducks, which the kids loved. I missed seeing Peggy Perry Anderson, who was also supposed to be there, but at the last minute had a commitment. We spoke to about 500 kids and had a blast. The kids had some great questions. I would like to thank Beth Coyle, Sperry Liberian for inviting us, as well as the lovely plant.
Saturday, April 16th Michelle and I were off and running early again. This time, we headed to Tulsa, where we signed books at Steve's Sundries and magazines. That was fun. Michelle met two people who were actually looking for illustrators. She was so excited. I got to see Amy Stutzman and Amanda Waters, two of my classmates from Adair High School. I also saw my Aunt Debbie Estes. Thank to everyone who came. Steve's was a fun place, and i would love to go back there someday.
All in all, Michelle and I had a great weekend! We sold approximately 15 books for all three events. THANK-YOU all so much. We know times are hard with gas prices on the rise as well as everything else. If anyone would like us to make more appearances, just let us know. We love you all!
Here I am back home safe and sound in Cecil, Arkansas. Toward the end of last week, I embarked on a book signing extravaganza with my illustrator and best friend Michelle Oakley. We had a BLAST!!!!
Thursday, April 14th I began my day very early (3:00 A.M. to catch a ride with my book club friend Donna and her husband Larry. Donna was catching a plane to Ohio to visit her Mom. Therefore we had to be at the airport by 7:00 A.M. Once Larry and I dropped Donna off, Larry dropped me off at Michelle's house in Sperry. (So what if he took a few wrong turns. All that mattered is that I got there in one piece. Thanks Larry and Donna for the ride.
Michelle and i baby-sat her nephew Gavin. What a cutie he is! I just love him. Thursday night, Michelle and I, along with her Mom Deanna and her sister Susan (and of course Gavin) attended The Little Lighthouse Resource Fair. What an adventure that was. Skies had looked threatening before we left the house, but Michelle and I beingthe dedicated professionals we are, went on our way. The Little Lighthouse had a table set up for our book. However, we were only there ten minutes when the tornado sirens sounded in Tulsa County! YIKES!!!! (I am deathly afraid of tornadoes!) The LLH staff ushered us in an office. I took my book copies and managed to talk to some people in the storm shelter. By the time, we were released, we had missed 30 minutes of the event. Not all was lost when someone purchased a book, and we handed out a LOT of information. So, the lesson for the day: Sometimes, there are things in life we can't control, but we have to keep on keeping on!
Friday, April 15th-Michelle and I arrived at Sperry Public Schools with books in tow by 9:15 A.M. We were a part of a very special author question and answer session called "The Sperry Connection." All of the authors/illustrators who were invited had some connection to Sperry. The panel included Michelle and myself, plus a lady named Rhonda Gaynor, a a Sperry High School Graduate who has written and published "Debbie the Duck. She brought real live ducks, which the kids loved. I missed seeing Peggy Perry Anderson, who was also supposed to be there, but at the last minute had a commitment. We spoke to about 500 kids and had a blast. The kids had some great questions. I would like to thank Beth Coyle, Sperry Liberian for inviting us, as well as the lovely plant.
Saturday, April 16th Michelle and I were off and running early again. This time, we headed to Tulsa, where we signed books at Steve's Sundries and magazines. That was fun. Michelle met two people who were actually looking for illustrators. She was so excited. I got to see Amy Stutzman and Amanda Waters, two of my classmates from Adair High School. I also saw my Aunt Debbie Estes. Thank to everyone who came. Steve's was a fun place, and i would love to go back there someday.
All in all, Michelle and I had a great weekend! We sold approximately 15 books for all three events. THANK-YOU all so much. We know times are hard with gas prices on the rise as well as everything else. If anyone would like us to make more appearances, just let us know. We love you all!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
The Dabbling Mum
Being a writer is so much fun. Putting pen to paper (or in my case fingers to the keyboard!) is so magical. I am writing words to form a story. This story will hopefully leave a lasting impression on many people. One of the most fun aspects of being an author is doing interviews. on Monday, Michelle and I were featured on the blog/parenting magazine The Dabbling Mum. Alyice Edrich does a wonderful job with this site, and I encourage all parents to review it. The Dabbling Mum not only offers artists and author interviews, but she also offers parenting tips. Please check out Brittany's interview at www.thedabblingmum.com As I have said, I love to do interviews about "I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay" If anyone can think of a parenting magazine or somewhere where I could do an interview and talk about the book, please let me know. Have a great week!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
A Somewhat Slow Week, and a preview of an upcoming book
Hi everybody! It's time for my weekly blog post about Penny Brown. There is not much to report for now, but that will soon change. Last week, I posted about filling out an interview for thedabblingmum.com Well, I was accepted, and the interview will appear on www.thedablingmum.com on April 4th. I am so excited! I sent in one book order for the upcoming signings in Tulsa in April. (Another book order will be going in at the end of the week) Michelle and i want to make sure there are enough books for everyone who wants them. Earlirt in the week, I posted two of Michelle's drawings for the book we are working on "I Am Sorry that Gigi Forgets........But I Will Be Okay" Many people have been asking about the second book, so let me give you littole background info. This title was inspiried by my beloved Grandmother, who has been living with Alzheimer's Disease/Dementia for the last four years. Grandma is one of my favorite people in the whole wide world. We have been through a lot over the years. Being a caregiver is difficult, but it is also very rewarding. Penny helps care for her beloved Gigi after Gigi became a permanent member of Penny's household due to dementia. It is my hope to have this book out on shelves by October 29th, or Grandma's 75th birthday. What a great gift that would make. I will write more later. Please keep reading "I Sit IN A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay." As always, thank-you for the support.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Promotional Opportunities
Hello everybody!
What a busy week in the world of Penny Brown. I have constantly stayed glued to the computer in the hopes of promoting our upcoming book signings in April. I have learned that i will get a chance to do not one, not two, but three signings in one weekend. WOW!!!! (I am fixing to place a book order next week to make sure I have enough books for everyone who wants them. All three signings will be in and around the Tulsa area. Michelle and I will head to The Little Lighthouse and Steve's, but will also get a chance to promote Penny at Sperry Public Schools (Friday, April 15).
I have probably spent more time promoting Penny this week than I should have. (In other words, I have let the housework slide a bit YIKES) However, it was well worth it. I answered some questions about "I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay for the Dabbling Mum.com. She features children's books on her blog. I also got word to Fox 23 in Tulsa about the upcoming book events. What I am most excited about is an invitation to appear on a radio program called "Disabled Radio" The producer contacted my by e-mail, He has scheduled me to do a phone interview on Wednesday April 13th at 8 P.M central time. (The show airs from Chicago). So, thank-you to Vince Staskel and host Rob Pritts. I am really looking forward to this!
I am also on Facebook (I Sit in A Wheelchair......But I Will Be Okay (Penny Brown Books) Feel free to become a fan! My Twitter account is @74330yahoo.com Feel free to follow me.
I realize I may talk about "I Sit in A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay" a LOT, but Michelle and I feel promotion is the key to success. At times, I even feel I may be forcing the book on people, but it's my job, and I really love it!!!
I think I will go for now. More later!
What a busy week in the world of Penny Brown. I have constantly stayed glued to the computer in the hopes of promoting our upcoming book signings in April. I have learned that i will get a chance to do not one, not two, but three signings in one weekend. WOW!!!! (I am fixing to place a book order next week to make sure I have enough books for everyone who wants them. All three signings will be in and around the Tulsa area. Michelle and I will head to The Little Lighthouse and Steve's, but will also get a chance to promote Penny at Sperry Public Schools (Friday, April 15).
I have probably spent more time promoting Penny this week than I should have. (In other words, I have let the housework slide a bit YIKES) However, it was well worth it. I answered some questions about "I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay for the Dabbling Mum.com. She features children's books on her blog. I also got word to Fox 23 in Tulsa about the upcoming book events. What I am most excited about is an invitation to appear on a radio program called "Disabled Radio" The producer contacted my by e-mail, He has scheduled me to do a phone interview on Wednesday April 13th at 8 P.M central time. (The show airs from Chicago). So, thank-you to Vince Staskel and host Rob Pritts. I am really looking forward to this!
I am also on Facebook (I Sit in A Wheelchair......But I Will Be Okay (Penny Brown Books) Feel free to become a fan! My Twitter account is @74330yahoo.com Feel free to follow me.
I realize I may talk about "I Sit in A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay" a LOT, but Michelle and I feel promotion is the key to success. At times, I even feel I may be forcing the book on people, but it's my job, and I really love it!!!
I think I will go for now. More later!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Signing Books in the Fort
Hey!
Hope everyone is doing well. I am wonderful. Glad to have Michelle here with me for the weekend. We were on hand at Fort Smith Public Library on Friday afternoon. That place amazed both of us. The library was about three stories----It isn't just a library, but, it could pass for a small city. The Fort Smith Library had a small cafe called Dewey's and a book shop where you could actually buy books! (I took advantage of that for the book club swap!)
Michelle and I couldn't have been treated better. We enjoyed chatting with Mrs. Diane Chessier, and some of the library staff. All were friendly and helpful. We sold a grand total of five books--I know you are probably thinking this is a low number, but were were okay with it, considering the circumstances, gas prices, and such. At one point, a line of people formed to talk about "I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay" We met a gentleman who was a retired special education teacher, who actually got his start in Tulsa (close to Michelle's stomping ground) We also met a gentleman who is a full time caregiver and advocate for disabled person's.
If you missed us on Friday, don't worry, there will be several more opportunities in the coming months. Thank-you everyone for making our library time enjoyable. And, as always, you can find "I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay on http://www.amazon.com/
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Writer at Work
Hello friends!
While I am still busy promoting Miss Penny Brown and her wheelchair, I would like to take a different approach to this week's blog. It has to do with Penny Brown, but it also profiles writing life in general.
I have a confession to make. Sometimes, I am envious of other people. Like Penny, I wish I could do certain tasks more easily. She wishes she could walk, run, or slide down the big slide. Well, I wish I could have a regular nine to five job, and could drive to that job. I would love to have an office where I would sit and do nothing but write all day. However, I have to learn to accept my short comings, and realize that I will be okay.
When life gives you lemons, make lemonade/ So, I can't work at a regular job. Therefore, I decide I will devote my life to writing books and magazine articles. Writing has been my goal for as long as I I can remember. My job may be more different from the 9-5 work in an office building. However, it doesn't matte where you do the work as long as you are productive.
One question arises here. People often ask me, "How can you be productive at home?" The answer can be summed up in one word. Motivation. You have to love what you do, or you won't stick with it. One misconception about working from home (especially for writers) is they do not actually work. Instead they sit around watching Trashy talk shows and daytime dramas. those folks couldn't be more wrong. Work at home writers have to work even harder to stay focused because there are so many distractions. People don't realize writers have working hours, just like everybody else.
Here are the top five distractions for people working at home. (And how to deal with them!)
1. The television-Some people work with it for background noise. I am pretty well used to this, but if there is a show that I want to catch during the day, I simply set my DVR, and watch it when I can.
2. The Telephone-This is a huge hindrance to some people. (Myself included) Sometimes, people call during the day just to chat. This is fine for me most of the time, but sometimes, I will get on a writing roll, and the shrill ring of the phone stops me completely in my tracks. Sometimes, I can get the rhythm back after talking, sometimes, I can't. I usually look at the caller ID, and if I don't answer, it's because I am writing mode. i will call back as soon as I am finished with my thought or idea.
3. Family members. in my case, this isn't a distraction. I am a caregiver to my wonderful 74 year old grandmother, and I lover her very much. True, when I am care giving, I am not writing. However, the caregivee's needs ALWAYS comes first. Writing will always be there, your loved ones will not. Sometimes, care giving for me is a good distraction from writing. If I am stuck on an idea, and Grandma needs my assistance, I try to meet her needs, and come back to writing later.
4. Facebook, E-mail, and Twitter The computer can be your best friend or worst enemy. Social networking sites are good for promoting your writing, but before long, you realize you have spent a long time promoting when you are supposed to be writing. I check e-mail and facebook at random throughout the day. It usually helps to set a timer and stick to it.
5. Housework-If you are like me, you try to keep the chores up on a daily basis. I have a schedule for chores. I only do three a day on a rotating basis (except laundry, which is done everyday in my house) Chores are done at certain times, early in the morning or late at night. this way, you are not neglecting writing, but not totally neglecting housework either.
I am sure many more distractions are out there. A writer must learn to set limits. The work will get done. See you next time.
While I am still busy promoting Miss Penny Brown and her wheelchair, I would like to take a different approach to this week's blog. It has to do with Penny Brown, but it also profiles writing life in general.
I have a confession to make. Sometimes, I am envious of other people. Like Penny, I wish I could do certain tasks more easily. She wishes she could walk, run, or slide down the big slide. Well, I wish I could have a regular nine to five job, and could drive to that job. I would love to have an office where I would sit and do nothing but write all day. However, I have to learn to accept my short comings, and realize that I will be okay.
When life gives you lemons, make lemonade/ So, I can't work at a regular job. Therefore, I decide I will devote my life to writing books and magazine articles. Writing has been my goal for as long as I I can remember. My job may be more different from the 9-5 work in an office building. However, it doesn't matte where you do the work as long as you are productive.
One question arises here. People often ask me, "How can you be productive at home?" The answer can be summed up in one word. Motivation. You have to love what you do, or you won't stick with it. One misconception about working from home (especially for writers) is they do not actually work. Instead they sit around watching Trashy talk shows and daytime dramas. those folks couldn't be more wrong. Work at home writers have to work even harder to stay focused because there are so many distractions. People don't realize writers have working hours, just like everybody else.
Here are the top five distractions for people working at home. (And how to deal with them!)
1. The television-Some people work with it for background noise. I am pretty well used to this, but if there is a show that I want to catch during the day, I simply set my DVR, and watch it when I can.
2. The Telephone-This is a huge hindrance to some people. (Myself included) Sometimes, people call during the day just to chat. This is fine for me most of the time, but sometimes, I will get on a writing roll, and the shrill ring of the phone stops me completely in my tracks. Sometimes, I can get the rhythm back after talking, sometimes, I can't. I usually look at the caller ID, and if I don't answer, it's because I am writing mode. i will call back as soon as I am finished with my thought or idea.
3. Family members. in my case, this isn't a distraction. I am a caregiver to my wonderful 74 year old grandmother, and I lover her very much. True, when I am care giving, I am not writing. However, the caregivee's needs ALWAYS comes first. Writing will always be there, your loved ones will not. Sometimes, care giving for me is a good distraction from writing. If I am stuck on an idea, and Grandma needs my assistance, I try to meet her needs, and come back to writing later.
4. Facebook, E-mail, and Twitter The computer can be your best friend or worst enemy. Social networking sites are good for promoting your writing, but before long, you realize you have spent a long time promoting when you are supposed to be writing. I check e-mail and facebook at random throughout the day. It usually helps to set a timer and stick to it.
5. Housework-If you are like me, you try to keep the chores up on a daily basis. I have a schedule for chores. I only do three a day on a rotating basis (except laundry, which is done everyday in my house) Chores are done at certain times, early in the morning or late at night. this way, you are not neglecting writing, but not totally neglecting housework either.
I am sure many more distractions are out there. A writer must learn to set limits. The work will get done. See you next time.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Positive Feedback
Hello all,
Being an author is a somewhat solitary job. It only takes one person to write a good book. (Unless the book is written with a co-author) Some authors thrive on the alone time to crank out page after page of good ideas. However, some authors do tend to get lonely. They might often wonder if anyone is actually reading, listening, and understanding to the words you worked so hard to write. What do readers think of an author's work?
With that being said, I have received some really nice feedback this week about my work. Great things are fixing to happen with Penny Brown. According to one e-mail, "I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay sounds fantastic." I have been also recognized as "a great example." However, I am not a example by any means. I still have much to learn about writing, publishing and life in general. Thank-you so much for the comments.
Positive feedback makes me feel empowered and inspired to do more. It makes me happy I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay" is making a difference in the lives of others. Don't be afraid to leave me an e-mail or leave me a facebook message with comments about the book. Even if the comments are negative, that is okay. Negative comments will help me focus and do better next time.
As always, Michelle and I thank-you for the support of "I Sit in A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay." We appreciate you!
Being an author is a somewhat solitary job. It only takes one person to write a good book. (Unless the book is written with a co-author) Some authors thrive on the alone time to crank out page after page of good ideas. However, some authors do tend to get lonely. They might often wonder if anyone is actually reading, listening, and understanding to the words you worked so hard to write. What do readers think of an author's work?
With that being said, I have received some really nice feedback this week about my work. Great things are fixing to happen with Penny Brown. According to one e-mail, "I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay sounds fantastic." I have been also recognized as "a great example." However, I am not a example by any means. I still have much to learn about writing, publishing and life in general. Thank-you so much for the comments.
Positive feedback makes me feel empowered and inspired to do more. It makes me happy I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay" is making a difference in the lives of others. Don't be afraid to leave me an e-mail or leave me a facebook message with comments about the book. Even if the comments are negative, that is okay. Negative comments will help me focus and do better next time.
As always, Michelle and I thank-you for the support of "I Sit in A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay." We appreciate you!
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