Getting to Know Mark Heber Miller
Topic: Author Interview

Mark Miller the person:

1. What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

   Spirituality – Non-judgmental - Guileless

2. How do you think others would describe you?

   Disciplined – Hard-working – A serious Christian

3. Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

   At 70 there is little passion left, but when I was younger there is no question it would be high level rock climbing and surfing.

4. Do you have any pets? If so, introduce us to them.

   Not anymore. When younger I always had a cat. I particularly have fond memories for two Manx (John-John), a Burmese (Mish-Mish), and an American Tabby.

5. What is your most precious memory?

   Birth of my 4 children. First time I saw my future wife in the 9^th grade.

6. What is your most embarrassing memory?

   Can't remember!!!!!!!!

7. If you weren’t a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

   Medical missionary

8. In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

   At 70 with that "undiscovered country" on the horizon I pray my life turns out to be wholly devoted to my Master Jesus the Nazarene. I have worked hard to bring the words and history of Jesus to thousands of people.

   Before my birth September 24, 1938 in the Norfolk, Virginia naval yard my mother June prayed that I would become a minister or teacher. I have my mother – and The God – to thank that such a humble prayer came true. Throughout my life I have had a strong spiritual bent and a particular love of the Bible. This manifest itself first in Hemet, California’s First Baptist Church when I finished my first reading of the King James Bible, followed by baptism. The next 50+ years have been marked by experience with scores of different sects, including Baptists, Seventh-Day Adventists [my great-great grandfather William Miller being a founding father], Methodists, Nazarene Church, Mormons, and Jehovah’s Witnesses [my great-great grandfather William Miller being a founding father]. This included my five years of seminary education and ordination recognized by the County of Riverside’s draft board in 1960. In brief the love of the Bible and constant study, mediation and research followed appointments as assistant pastors in a dozen churches and senior pastor in another ten. This included 20 years of missionary work in the U. S., The Bahamas, The Netherlands, and Spain. I then became a seminarian instructor, writer and photographer and research consultant for the largest publisher of Bible literature in the world. I avoid sectarianism and consider myself non-sectarian. I believe I find myself in the field of the Master in which grow both wheat and tares. [Matt 13] Like Martin Luther in the late 80s I began to realize "my church was wrong." In 1980 I suffered a catastrophic and traumatic auto wreck. Several times over the following year I came near to death and in fact "flat-lined" as a Code Blue following radical surgery to my spine. Laid up in a hospital bed for almost two years I renewed deep research in the spiritual depths of the Bible. How many times and how many scores of different versions of the Bible I read I cannot comprehend. No one would believe it – 25, 50, 100. I became familiar with Greek and Hebrew. Finally, in the mid-90s I made a break that destroyed my marriage and family as I was viewed as an apostate. I determined to create a fresh version of the New Testament, at first designed for computer use on the Internet, and now – thanks to answered prayers – Living Waters a hard copy version is being made available. The total of my work between 1996-2000 are available on the Internet. THE FUTURE: as an arthritic cripple in a 70-year old failing body "the wasting away of the outer man" is speeding up. I thank God that I was able to finish my work and realize my goals. Now full of deep conviction I await the Return of our Nazarene Master in the spirit of the closing words of Revelation: "Come, Lord Jesus!" [MHM]
   
   Birth Place: Norfolk, VA USA
   
   Accomplishments: Two scholarships in swimming and writing.
   Registed life guard and life saving instructor.
   Ordained minister.
   Semanrian professor.

9. Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

11.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

Lately I spend so much time in doctors offices and hospital tests it leaves me little time. I am converting old mss to CD format and my 22 year old grand daughter Ashley Miller is helping with this. Perhaps something will be finished in 2008.

12.  Why do you write?
 

I cannot do it.

13.  What writer most inspires you? Why?
 

Ernest Hemingway --- his style.

14.  How do you define your writing?

15.  In one sentence—what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

If people read my work in 50 years I would think it could be viewed as "literature".

Mark Miller the details:

16.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website? Blog?

17.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

18.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

19.   For new readers—what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

A non-sectarian commentary on the New Testament without bias.

In conclusion:

20.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers—what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

 

Getting to Know J. M. Snyder
Topic: Author Interview
J. M. Snyder the person:

1.   What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Quixotic, nonconformist, and creative J

2.   How do you think others would describe you?

I'm a private person who tends to keep most others at a distance.  I'm slow to trust but once someone earns that trust, I'm loyal to a fault.  I'm the person you can call at four in the morning because you're locked out of your car, the friend who will take you in when you have no place else to go, the one who always listens to your problems J

But because it takes me so long to let others "in," I tend to take any sort of back-stabbing or perceived betrayal very personally, so much so that I find it hard to forgive someone I think has done me wrong.

3.      Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Wait, you mean there's more to life than writing? J  I love reading, music (especially pop and hard rock), movies, video games ... I'm a big Legend of Zelda fanatic.  But writing is my first passion.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

I have two cats that mean the world to me.  I've had them since they were 3 months old; they're from the same litter and grew up together, but they're different as night and day.  This year they turn 12.  Jelly is a black & white "tuxedo" cat with long hair who loves people and so personable - he's like a dog in cat's clothes.  Jono is a gray short hair who hides from everyone but me and loves to sleep on my bed, right beside my pillow, every night.  They're spoiled rotten J but I wouldn't have it any other way!

5.  What is your most precious memory?

To be completely honest, I don't know.  I'm not given to much introspection, I guess - that comes out in my writing, and my stories contain scenes from my own life from time to time.  Nothing really stands out; I try to savor each moment as it happens, and cherish the time I have with those near me. J

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

I don't really get embarrassed.  I haven't decided if it's because I'm confident enough in myself to laugh at the stupid things I sometimes do, or if it's because I'm just too spaced out to realize when I've made a faux pas.

7.      If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

I've always wanted to write - it defines who I am, and is cheaper than therapy J  I could never imagine a life without writing.  Even when I thought I wanted to go into a medical field, I still planned to write in my free time.  I never thought of writing as "work."  It's my downtime, a way to dream out loud, a way to keep my sanity in a crazy, stressful world!

8.      In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Well, hmm ... this is a difficult task.  I'd like to think I die in some spectacular way that adds an interesting footnote to the story of my life, but I have a feeling that won't be the case.  Still, I would hope that my obit would at least link to my website (how vain of me!), and I'll have provisions in my will to ensure the continuation of that site for quite some time to come.  Nothing like a little post-death promotion, eh?  Though the 100 books is stretching it ... or rather, I'm just being optimistic J

The obit should probably read something along these lines: "J.M. Snyder passed away today.  An author of gay erotic/romantic fiction whose career began in self-publishing in 2002, Snyder was known for writing realistic characters who were unashamed of their sexuality.  Snyder left over 100 books in print and provided for the continued maintenance of jmsnyder.net for years to come."

J. M. Snyder the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

The first time I held my self-published novel, Operation Starseed, in my hands, I felt like a "real" author.  I had tangible proof of my ability to write.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I'm busy, as usual J  Currently I'm working on an untitled novella about a police detective who falls for a street hustler, which is something a little different for me.  I have deadlines clear through August, a novella (or two) due each month for the first half of this year, and after that, I don't know yet what I'll be working on.  I have two e-book short story series that are published monthly and anticipate those running through the end of the year.  After that, the sky's the limit.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

My short term goals are to meet the deadlines I set for myself (a novella a month until August 2008).  I would also like to self-publish again; I have three poetry books and a short story collection in mind.  And I would like to begin a second series featuring my "superhero" characters, Vic Braunson and Matt diLorenzo (who currently star in my series, The Powers of Love and The Positions of Love).

My long term goal is to write full-time.  Ditch the day job and just spend my days working on my stories.  As I live alone, this will be harder to realize, but I'm aiming for it.  I hope to be moving toward that goal in the next five years or so.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

As I work full-time, I have to write whenever I get a chance.  On weekdays, I wake up at 6 AM every morning to write for two hours before I have to go to work, and I try to get at least another hour or so in after I get home in the evenings.  On weekends, I tend to write in the afternoon and go into the night if I can.

13.  Why do you write?

I write because if I didn't, I would die.  It's therapeutic for me; it keeps me sane, and empties my overcrowded mind of the stories and dreams inside me.  I live to write.  It's like breathing, to me - that essential, that necessary.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

Though we write completely different genres, I'd have to say that Stephen King inspires me the most.  He was the first author I could remember falling in love with, and I devoured everything I could find of his.  The way he crafts a story, the slow build-up of scene and tension, his descriptions, his characterizations ... I find myself enjoying that same stylistic approach to storytelling in my own writing.  I love well-defined characters, rich inner dialog, vivid descriptions, all of which I see in his stories.  I hope readers think of my stories in a similar light.

15.  How do you define your writing?

My writing is gay fiction, first and foremost.  The stories are about gay men and the ways their lives intersect with others.  Yes, the stories revolve around relationships, and yes, there is sex involved, but those are secondary to the plot and characterization.  It took quite a while before I called it "romance," and my longer stories, though graphic in language and sex, don't quite fall into what most e-publishers consider "erotica."  I like to be true to the characters and let them tell their stories, and try not to force them into a categorical genre beyond that.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

If people are even talking about my writing in fifty years, I'll be happy!  Seriously though, I'd like them to say that my stories rang true, not just the semantics (such as dialog and characterization) but the snapshot of human experience and emotions captured in my words.

J. M. Snyder the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

My website is at http://jmsnyder.net/.  I have a blog online at http://jmsnyder.com/.  And my superhero characters have a site of their own at http://www.vic-and-matt.com/. 

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

I have a Yahoo! Group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jmsnyder/, and can always be reached via e-mail at jms@jmsnyder.net.

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Wow, that's quite a request.  I've been publishing since 2002, and began writing e-books in 2006.  My most current list of titles includes:

Operation Starseed

Scarred: Four Novellas (the novellas are sold as separate e-books: Scarred, His Song, Windows, and VR Palace)

Power Play

Vince

Bones of the Sea (short story collection, not gay fiction)

It's All Relative

Shorts (short story collection, gay fiction)

Trin

Creatures of the Night, Creatures of Delight (anthology)

Just What the Doctor Ordered

"Henry and Jim"

 Stepping Up to the Plate

Babes in Toyland (anthology)

Between Brothers

Cupid's Arrow (anthology)

"Caught Off Base"

Country Boys (anthology)

Persistence of Memory

"On the Down Low"

The Powers of Love

Under a Confederate Moon

War Torn

Matching Tats

Working Man Book 1: Opening Day at the County Fair

 "World Enough and Time"

My First Time, Volume 5 (anthology)

Best Gay Love Stories: Summer Flings (anthology)

Beneath a Yankee Sky

Working Man Book 2: Summer Kisses and Ice Cream Dreams

Crushed

Best Gay Romance 2008 (anthology)

Working Man Book 3: Easily Addicted

Undertow

No Apologies

Working Man Book 4: Makin' Copies

The Positions of Love Book 1: The Positions of Love

"Afflicted"

Working Man Book 5: Pleasure Cruise

The Positions of Love Book 2: Two Pillars Position

The Bonds of Love

 

Coming soon (contracted e-books):

Working Man Book 6: On the Job (March 2008)

The Positions of Love Book 3: Clasping Position (March 2008)

The Regent's Knight (March 2008)

Working Man Books 7 through 16 (monthly series)

The Positions of Love Books 4 through 12 (monthly series)

Conflict of Interest (April 2008)

With This Ring (May 2008)

"Hooking Up" in Boys in Heat (anthology; June 2008)

"Shut Up and Drive" in The Queer Collection (anthology; June 2008)

Wanted (September 2008)

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

I write gay fiction.  I don't consider it M/M, which in my opinion is much more erotic or romantic than my fiction, and written specifically for women readers.  Though 90% of e-book readers are female, I like to think my stories appeal to gay men just as much as they appeal to straight women. 

I write fiction about men who fall in love with each other, yes, but if you're just looking for smut, you'll probably be a little disappointed because I don't overdo the sex.  Some say I don't write enough, but the relationship isn't the main impetus in the story for me.  The characters and plot come first; the sex and love follow logically from the interactions and the storyline. 

My stories aren't "stroke books" or highly explicit, which disappoints more than a few people, I'm sure.  Still, I like to think I can tell a good story J with or without the sex.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

I know that M/M fiction is all the rage at the moment, but I've been writing homoerotic fiction for over 10 years now.  My stories embrace a love that transcends gender, and my characters have a sincerity and unabashedly positive view of their own sexuality.  My writing celebrates gay romance - I don't write "just sex;" I never have, and never will.  Each story I write has within it the potential for a happy ending in which the characters find the one true love I believe is out there for each of them.

Getting to Know Tara Greenbaum
Topic: Author Interview
Tara Greenbaum the person:

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Compassionate

Sweet

Loving

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

Very outgoing :0)

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

My children and my husband

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

We have two miniature dachshunds named Emily and Megan

5.  What is your most precious memory?

When we took our little boys to Disney world for the fist time.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

Way too many to recall. :0)

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

 I am also the Dean at a High School. So I guess I would just do that job.

8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Here lies Tara Greenbaum. She had a BLAST with her life. Have a glass of red wine, share an "I remember when Tara did this. . .  story, and salute. 

Tara Greenbaum the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

When I watched a movie, then turned to my husband and said "that plot had holes the size of the sun."

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I'm on my second round of edits for a book that comes out March 24^th.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

Hopefully I can just keep selling my books.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I get the kids to school by 8:15. I come home and write until 2:15. Then after dinner, homework and sports, I get back on the computer until midnight.

13.  Why do you write?

I enjoy weaving stories. :0)

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

Jane Austen

I just love feel good books set in historical times.

15.  How do you define your writing?

Light hearted and hopefully humorous.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

I would love them to say that one on my books left them with a smile.

Tara Greenbaum the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

Oh sure:

Web site: TaraGreenbaum.com

MySpace:  MySpace.com/TaraGreenbaum

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

E-mail me! I would LOVE to hear from you. Tara@TaraGreenbaum.com

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Lord Kilmore

Traffic Jam

Lilies and Lies (coming March 24^th)

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

Well I hope you get a chuckle and it leaves you with a smile.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

I will leave it up to you. E-mail me and I will happily answer any questions you have. :0) I look forward to hearing from you.

Tara

xoxo

Getting to Know Vivian Zabel
Topic: Author Interview
Vivian Zabel the person:

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

 Loving, living, and laughing, between sobs

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

 Most see me as serious, hardworking, with high standards, most think I can't get away from being a teacher. Few people see the fun-loving part of me, or the rather dry, sometimes corny, humor.

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

 My husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren are the most important parts of my life, then comes writing.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

Funny Face is a he/it cat with a lop-sided patterned face. He thinks he owns me, and he is my guard cat. If we're outside and a dog acts as if coming toward me, Funny Face fluffs up, hisses, and prepares to attack the dog. He has a mainly white face with a splotch of dark color on one side of his nose. A white shawl surrounds his shoulders and covers his chest and legs. The "shawl" appears to have slipped because it's not even on both sides.

GG is mainly white with a few smears of black, as if she walked under something greasy and brushed it. Her face is shaped like a Siamese, and her eyes are a pale green. She is "different" and has a personality all her own, that of a pest.

I would love to have another German Shepherd, but our yard is way too small.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

 Now that is a difficult question considering all the years I've lived: my wedding day; the birth of each of my children; the births of my ten grandchildren; the births of my great-grandchildren; my husband's love and support when our youngest baby died after a few hours; one granddaughter's scribbles on the wall  of our new house when she was about two-years-old and her explanation that she wrote, "I love you; I love you." Three years later (eleven years ago) her father took her and her brother, and we've not seen or heard from them since.

Another one, my teen-aged grandson allowed me to hug him in the parking lot after a basketball game, in front of his teammates, and even returned the hug.

His brother leaving a quarter beside my computer because he heard me say I didn't have the money for something.

How do I choose my most precious memory?

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

That's an easy question to answer, in fact I've written a story about it which is one of the stories in Hidden Lies and Other Stories, "The Crazy-woman Dance."

 I was pregnant with my last child, and we were attending my daughter's (the oldest child) kindergarten Christmas program. I took my dress from the plastic bag from the cleaners, and my coat from it's bag. What I didn't know was somehow, someway, a mouse was inside the dress. When I got out of the car for the program, the mouse started running around and around my middle. I did a crazy-woman dance with all my daughter's friends and families watching.

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

I've already been a wife, mother, motel receptionist, office manager, bookkeeper,    and teacher for twenty-seven years. I'm now an author and publisher. I think I'll  just worry about extending my life long enough to finish all I need to do. *laugh*
 

8. In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Vivian Gilbert Zabel was born to Raymond and Dolly Gilbert, traveled around the world with her military father, and discovered she likes staying in one spot. After meeting and marrying Robert Zabel, though, she followed him around for several years before they settled in Edmond, Oklahoma.

Through her family, life experiences, and vivid imagination, she found enough material to write poetry, short stories, articles, and novels. Her legacy isn't all in her words, though, but through the lives of the descendants who live after her.

Vivian Zabel the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

I started writing poetry when in the third grade, but I had always entertained my siblings and friends with my stories. I remember telling a friend when we were in the eighth grade the plot for a book I was going to write. She laughed, but that plot lives in one of my novels.

I don't know when I realized I am a "real" writer, because writing has always been an central part of my life.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

 I'm over half way finished with a young adult book, Prairie Dog Cowboy, set back in the 1899s through 1912. I've wanted to be able to use some of my husband's stories about being a cowboy and breaking horses, and in this book I can.

My mystery/suspense novel, Midnight Hours, will be released later this year, and I have a sequel in mind.

However, I don't get to write as much as I would like anymore because I'm busy preparing other people's books for publishing.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

 I have at least two more young adult books in mind. I started writing about the base stealers club when I couldn't find books that would interest a grandson who lives sports but is a reluctant reader. I couldn't find any, so I starting writing some.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I don't have typical days of any kind. I have rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and fibromyalgia, so I never know what days I can even crawl from bed. Often I'm unable to sleep, so I work most of the night in short spurts. I try to work at least thirty minutes a day on my writing no matter what is       happening.

13.  Why do you write?

I don't have a choice. I write because I HAVE to. At times the words beat inside  my head until I stop whatever I'm doing or get up and write them down.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

 I seriously don't know how to answer this question. I can't say any one writer does, but that all of them do who write work that I have to finish before I can put the book down. I like to "get lost" in the words until I feel as if I'm part of the story.

15.  How do you define your writing?

 My writing is my life stretched, molded, added to, explored, and heavily doctored with imagination. While I write, I am with my characters living their lives.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

Uh, I wish I had a chance of being here to hear what they might say. *laugh*

Seriously, I hope they say my writing helped them escape for a while, endure longer, and entertained them.

Vivian Zabel the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

 My web site is http://viviangilbertzabel.com/

I have several blogs:           

 http://viviangilbertzabel.com/blog.html

http://vzabel.multiply.com/journal

http://blog365.ning.com/profile/VivianGilbertZabel

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

I hang out on several Yahoo email groups, including the SinC (Sisters in Crime) group, the Muse Conference Board, Bragging Rites. I'm a member of Writing.Com, and people can visit my port at http://vzabel.Writing.Com/ . I'm also a member of OWFI (Oklahoma Writers Federation), http://www.owfi.org/.

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Hidden Lies and Other Stories by Vivian Gilbert Zabel and Holly Jahangiri

Walking the Earth: Life's Perspectives in Poetry by Vivian Zabel et al

The Base Stealers Club by V. Gilbert Zabel

Case of the Missing Coach  by V. Gilbert Zabel

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

They'll find realistic characters and plots in the short stories and books. The poetry I wrote is filled with understandable imagery.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

 I write not only because I must, but also because I want others to have material they can enjoy reading. Characters should be people we would like to know (and whom I do "know" in my head), and stories should be interesting and believable.  Even fantasy should be believable based on the possibilities of actions and behavior IF the circumstances actually existed.

Poetry should appeal to the readers' senses and should be able to be understood by readers.

My goals are to write so that you, the reader, want to read what I write.

Getting to Know Mary Andrews
Topic: Author Interview
Mary Andrews the person:

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

creative, generous, idealistic

2.   How do you think others would describe you?

      Interesting (?)

3.   Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.                    

 I hate waste. Nothing makes me happier than to turn something that has been deemed worthless into a piece of art or a functional item. 

4.     Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

My husband and I cohabitate with 4 indoor cats. 

Taz, my husband's owner, is a huge tabby with Burmese roots. He is the enforcer of rules. All family felines must salute him.

Diamond was born on Mother's day and is a world builder. (He moonlights as a cat burglar and has quite a sense of humor.)  From the start he has set out to teach us how to get along.  He trained me, then my husband, and then one by one he taught each of the other cats what standards they should aspire to and how to achieve them...even the dog.  

Sable is the backyard matriarch of our black cat brigade out back.  She came to us with a damaged leg and we could never get close enough to fix it for her.  Since her health was really bad back then, I had to help her deliver 7 kittens, and she eventually left them under my bench when she knew she could not raise them. 

The lovely little Lilly is the only survivor of that litter.  She has digestive problems and had to be hand fed.  In fact, she was so small that she wore all the hair off of her back while fighting to feed among her adopted siblings (one of which is Diamond).  No matter how hard she fought, no matter what she did, eventually everybody grew large enough to out rank her.  She hates being taken for granted.  (Diamond will frequently stop in the middle of scuffling with her and clean his paws as if she is not there.  She hates that.)  So she remains aloof from the others, keeping interactions brief, and she allows them to live-but not use HER litter box. 

Ichigo Haze is our newest addition to the household. He is one of Sable's grandsons.  When 3 of the backyard cats (all but one of which are black, by the way) decided to have litters almost all at once last year, Ichigo was put in the unfortunate position of being one of the last born.  That meant that when the mommas decided to wean all the young at once, the littlest ones were cut loose earlier than they should've been.  Ichigo has a reddish haze to his black fur so I originally called him Haze. I'd never seen a cat/kitten throw itself on its back and beg for more petting like he does.  That's how he got named Ichigo: from top to bottom, he almost seems itchy, itchy, itchy.  Somehow, he developed some kind of sinus problem but his playfulness and loving disposition scored him an indoor pass despite the fact that we did not intend to be taken in by any more wanna-be house cats.  Oh well.  He currently fills the position of everybody's (except Lilly's) cuddle baby.

And then there's Tech, a fat little minipin who lives to eat.  He won't fetch, play tug-a-war, catch Frisbees, or mind half the time.  I swear he's ADD.  But for some reason, he keeps petitioning everyone who comes by to steal him away.

5.     What is your most precious memory?

I spent days trying to answer this and the next questions, and I finally came to the conclusion, that I can't single out a single one-there have just been so many....

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

same as above

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?
 

Collecting a paycheck from whomever offers me the most money and making due with what I've got while dabbling in the arts/crafts.

8.     In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

 Author Mary Andrews died yesterday of a stroke after winning the World Uber Lotto.  Though only 207 years old, her FMO was unable to save her.  In an uncommonly generous last act, she thrust her cybernetic donor card into the care of the EMS team.   There will be many, many, many friends and relatives left behind- now.

 (Oh come on, what did you expect?  I'm a science fiction writer!)

Mary Andrews the writer:

9.   Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

When my first reviews started coming out, and people said they liked the book is probably when it really started to sink in.  I mean, you spend so much time getting critiques and striving to perfect your craft.  You start second guessing yourself.  It was perhaps a revelation to me that readers do not read exclusively to test the art of writing.  They read to be entertained, and can value a good story even above technique.

10.    What is going on with your writing these days?

I'm currently writing The Fireborn Chronicles: Book II.  It has been contracted by Swimming Kangaroo to be sent to the editors on September 1^st.
 

11.   What are your future goals for your writing?

To put out at least one Fireborn book a year.  Also, I need to find homes for several short stories.

12.   Can you describe a typical writing day for you?
 

I crawl out of bed, splash water in my face, pet and brush the cats, let the dog out, feed the cats, eat breakfast, have coffee, decide my priorities and turn on the laptop. I spend about an hour or two a day on email and business things, and then I try to write during the day by putting on my head phones and playing my writing music. (A few decades ago, when I first started writing, I had kids and a husband and a time table to contend with, so I decided to go Pavlov on myself to expedite the creative process.  After the family was all bedded down, I would take a glass of Pepsi to my desk and turn on a tape of Intergalactic Touring band and Alan Parson's I Robot.  I let it  softly play over and over in the background while I wrote.  To this day, whenever I  turn those two albums on, I go creative-and crave a coke.) 

Any way, if life doesn't get in my way via phone calls and natural disasters, I can spend hours in that mode once I've gotten it going.  But usually, I wait til after 10pm and just stay up all night when there are fewer distractions.  Recently, I have found it easier to do rewrites and corrections to previously written sections in the daytime, and to do the original drafts at night.  I have found it very handy to only need 5 hours of sleep too.

13.    Why do you write?

Because I could not afford to become an artist.  Art supplies and training is costly.  Music is the same way, but I am compelled to create things one way or another and I still dabble at these art forms, turning ‘trash' to treasures. 

 So I guess it just seemed more possible to learn the art of writing.  I  started out with a pencil and paper and ‘a song in my heart.'  At my first Sci Fi convention I was amazed to see all the opportunities amidst the fun and games.  I payed my way into them with ceramic unicorns and craft items in the dealer halls.  And the conventions introduced me to professional writers who sat in panels and gave me the benefit of their considerable knowledge in the field. 

I learned from them first.  Then formed writers groups, a fanzine for aspiring writers, Gorbash, which gave me an excuse to approach the pros and interview them.  Life got in my way for a little while there and I was reduced to writing short things like poetry and songs or short stories for a while before I stabilized and got back on my feet again and finally finished my book.

By then, the internet had arrived and it erupted into an enormous wealth of information. FREE Online conventions brought opportunities and knowledge. (I attended and took notes for 30 classes at my first Muse Online Convention), and when I submitted the opening 10 pages of The Fireborn Chronicles as part of an assignment to be critiqued by Dindy Robinson, the head of Swimming Kangaroo Publisher, and the rest is history.  What an adventure, huh?

As I wrote this, I got to wondering if the cost of art supplies was really that much more expensive that writing equipment since though I started paper and pencil, I then moved on to a manual typewriter, an electric typewriter, a second hand Kaypro ‘portable' computer, a refurbished second hand IBM laptop, and now my brand spankin new wide screen Hewlett Packard laptop and notebook cooler. 

Hmmm...maybe I write because it is therapeutic.  Maybe because I like the challenge of following long what-if scenarios to see where they lead me or maybe I'm just reflecting the wonder of God's creation all around me.  Who knows why anyone does anything really? 

14.   What writer most inspires you?  Why?

Tough question.  The most current one would be J K Rowland.  Her easy-to-read, no nonsense style of story telling is perfect for modern readers.  Though the first three short stories in The Fireborn Chronicles were written in other styles, the main body of Part four was inspired by her style.
 

15.    How do you define your writing?

 Psionic sci fi: The inevitable fusion of Man, Machine, and the Paranormal.

16. In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

 I love her books.

Mary Andrews the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

 On my website home page, I provide ‘Me sightings' as well. (see below for address.)

18.   Is there a place where readers can reach you?

 http://www.freewebs.com/mary-andrews/  Be sure to leave your email address in correspondences if you want me to respond though because they do not automatically register.

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

 Until next year when the sequel comes out it's The Fireborn Chronicles

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

 As the Nemesis team searches the stars, prepare to be distracted from work and leave your troubles behind.  Uh...I suspect it would go good with coffee too.   (smile) 

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

My life has been very hard and very trying.  Writing is both a passion and an outlet for me. Amidst my poverty, it has been a form of art that I can afford to learn and practice and I am driven to create.  Feel free to pronounce character names and fill in any blanks you may find in my books.  I want my readers to become a part of the creative experience, and to enjoy it. I believe that every work of art, be it a puppet or a gown or a piece of written fiction has a ‘life' of its own.  Its ‘flavor' is meant to be tasted.  Nothing (other than perhaps an exorbitant amount of financial recompense) could make me happier than to know that my books and I were entertaining.  

Enjoy the ride.

Getting to Know Mary Ellen Courville
Topic: Author Interview
Mary Ellen Courville the person:

1. What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Good intentioned- I never mean to put my foot in my mouth, yet the pleathery taste of shoe sole remains. 

Grace-filled- I am awed by the grace God has shown me, and I try to show that same grace to others.  We even named our daughter Grace (although long time friends persist in thinking that her name stemmed from my own high school nickname "Grace," with which I was sarcastically dubbed due to my lack of coordination). 

Encouraging- I believe encouragement is one of the most meaningful free gifts we can offer each other. 

2. How do you think others would describe you? 

Talkative- Well, they might describe me that way if I let them get a word in edgewise.  Energetic, enthusiastic or excited, I think round out the list. 

3.    Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing. 

Teenage is a time I will never forget.  I am a passionate advocate for teens.  I want them to understand that they are not alone.  To this end, I teach teenagers English and writing.  More often, however, they teach me empathy and acceptance.  Teenage is a humbling time, when teens haven't mastered the adult art of keeping emotions in check and wearing many masks.  I learn from teens how to embrace the reality of the clutzy, foot-in-mouth, frizzy haired person God created me to be. 

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.
 

Smokie joined our family a year and a half ago after we bought our first home. Her shivering body and big black eyes couldn't be denied at a local animal shelter's adoption day.  Over the past year her black coat has thickened and grayed.  She now has a streak of white that sticks up on top of her head like a Mohawk.  We think she's a schnauzer-terrier mix, but we constantly evaluate breeds trying to decide what her heritage may have been.  Spunky, sweet, wild-haired mutt, she's the perfect mix for our family. 

5.  What is your most precious memory?

Last year, one of my students wrote a letter nominating me to be the local Wal-Mart 2007 teacher of the year.  I didn't learn of this until months later during a special assembly.  That May morning I looked into the audience and saw my children, who were supposed to be in class, sitting beside my principal.  Before I had time to wonder why, the speaker at the microphone called me forward.  A Wal-Mart manager stood at the podium with a six foot long check made out to the school in honor of me, their 2007 Teacher of the Year.  The most precious part of that award was standing with my children hugging me on stage and reading the encouraging words of the nomination letter penned by one of my students.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?  

Have I mentioned my love of coffee?  What about my lack of coordination?  These two traits unite for one of a plethora of embarrassing moments.  A few years ago as I began my morning class, I put down my Styrofoam cup of coffee. As the class progressed, I lost track of where I'd put my untouched coffee.  Near the end of the class, I perched upon a stool in the front of the room.  The upside of that moment is that I finally found my coffee; the downside is that the coffee was still warm as it decorated my posterior.  There are many reasons that teenagers enjoy my class.  I only hope that a love of literature and writing rank close to their enjoyment of seeing my daily episodes of grace.


7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life? 

If not a writer, I would still be a mother, a teacher, a wife and a friend.  I pray daily that God would write through me and use my experiences to somehow help or encourage other people.  If I didn't claim the role of writer, my prayer wouldn't change.  The difference would only be the medium.  Without a keyboard, I would perhaps record in scrapbooks and photographs the vignettes and stories I now collect on paper.  Maybe my lens of life would find its way into paintings, and art would reach out to others from my experiences.  
 

Mary Ellen Courville the writer:

8.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

Seated in the waiting area of a local music studio where my daughter was taking piano lessons, I read quietly to my son.  Across from me another parent took her seat and began to flip through a local parenting magazine.  I eyed the woman across from me covertly as I continued reading to my son.  She settled on an article and became fully absorbed, never making eye contact with me.  Over the top of the magazine I could see the article she was reading.  I recognized the picture and the page layout.  The woman facing me smothered a chuckle and continued to read.  I wondered which part had made her laugh.  I wanted so much to ask her; I wanted to reach over and introduce myself.  I thought about my introduction, "My name is Mary Ellen, and I wrote the article you are reading."  It sounded too strange to me, so I didn't speak.  At that moment however strange it sounded, I realized that somewhere along the way, I had actually become a writer.      


9.  What is going on with your writing these days? 

This year everything is growing.  From the seed of a true tale told to me, a fiction children's book took root.  Now, in September 2008 "The Pilgrim's Basket" a children's story based on a Louisiana classroom service learning project is set to see library and bookstore shelves near you.   I am setting up next year's calendar of readings, classroom visits and book signings. http://writethroughme.blogspot.com/  is  "The Pilgrim's Basket" blog.   The book's challenge to people of all ages to reach out and serve their communities makes it a perfect kickoff for canned food drives, service project days and other outreach opportunities.  I'm especially excited with the prospect of kicking off the book's promotions in Ruston, Louisiana with the help of those giving people who inspired the book in the first place.   

10.  What are your future goals for your writing? 

I am in the revising stages of "SLAP,"my young adult novel which is based on the events following the 2005 Louisiana hurricanes.  Bringing this story to life requires patience, but it has a grip on my heart.  I believe it is a story that begs to be told, and I plan to persevere in seeing it through to publication. http://www.writemaryellen.com/ 

11.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you? 

I write best when the world is sleeping.  At four AM the quiet click of my laptop keys blends with the drip of percolating coffee and the flurry of ideas awakening on the screen.  I write in small snatches in notebooks that surround me, in my purse, my pocket, my briefcase, or my drawers.  These hidden idea catchers keep my mind writing even when I'm away from my computer.


12.  Why do you write?

I write to find out what I think.  If I go too long without a pen or a keyboard, my thoughts become jumbled.  Writing brings me clarity and is often cathartic.  

13.   What writer most inspires you?  Why? 

Harper Lee inspires me because of the questions To Kill a Mockingbird asks but doesn't blatantly answer.  The reader wants to apply the book to life today and see if it has relevance.  I like that.  I love her use of language as well.

14.  How do you define your writing? 

Encouraging- I would hope readers could see a shred of themselves in the characters and feel encouraged or challenged to reach out and encourage others.

15.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years? 

There's no way that writer from 2008 could have intended this to apply to my life, but it still has meaning to me. 

Mary Ellen Courville the details:

16.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

http://home.earthlink.net/~maryellencourville/index.html my website and parenting articles

http://www.shoutlife.com/maryellencourville  my life blog

http://www.writemaryellen.com/  my Y/A "SLAP" site

http://writethroughme.blogspot.com/  my children's book "Pilgrim's Basket" blog

17.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

maryellencourville@gmail.com

18.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

"The Pilgrim's Basket" by Living Waters Publications September 2008

 "Breathe" published in the "Imagine" anthology 2007

 Various parenting articles available through my website

19.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

Whether they read my articles about mommy-hood or stories about giving hearted children, readers of my writing should find encouragement that inspires them to reach out to others.

In conclusion:

20.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing? 

This writing journey is a humbling one.  It's a balanced juggle of living life and writing it.  There is no clear map of how to get from point A to Z, so my best attempt is to simply appreciate the rabbit trails and coffee spills along the way.  Maybe Z wasn't even my destination.  My most meaningful writing may have been the letter I wrote to my sick friend or the thank you note I sent to a virtual stranger.  For now, I'm clacking along the keyboard alphabet, progressing to the letter P for publication and promotion, knowing that it will send me back to A as I open a new file, start a new chapter and begin again.   

Getting to Know Sharolyn Wells
Topic: Author Interview
Sharolyn Wells the person:

1.   What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Loving, generous, Willing to go that extra mile for someone else

2.   How do you think others would describe you?

My best friend Tony describes me as Creative, a fierce and loyal friend, constantly assaulted by new story ideas by my ever-elusive Muse, but always willing to help another writer who's stuck.

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

I think family first, then friends (of course, some of my friends have become like my extended family); Music (all kinds but love classical and classic rock and country the best); learning-want to go back to college one day and finish getting my bachelor's degree

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them. LOL -

No pets, unless you count my hubby Phil

5.  What is your most precious memory?

Christmas 1962. My grandfather had been asking for a new car for the past six months, so my mom bought him a little Tonka truck. He kept that car on a shelf in his house until he died on my birthday except 10 months later.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

Oh, Lord! Telling Russell H. that I was in love with him, as a sophomore in high school and then him telling me he was gay.

7.   If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

I've been writing since I was 13. Before that, my sister and I would lie in bed and we would dream about visiting places all over the world. We would describe everything we saw at the places we went. So I guess I always was a writer in one sense or another.

8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Sharolyn Wells was born on October 25, 1951 in Muskogee OK, the daughter of the late Billie Dean and Zelda M. (Fulk) Atchison. She is survived by her loving husband Phillip, daughters Lori K. Butler and Megan K. Wells. In life, Sharolyn-also known as Shay to her friends-was a generous, loving and loyal friend.

Sharolyn has been a writer her entire life and has an extensive career in both print, e-books and movies. Her film and book "Ghost of Killough Castle" was an instant success with her public. She died sitting at her keyboard working on another classic.

Sharolyn Wells the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

The first time my sister read my first short story (I was 13) and she told me it was "as good as anything I read in school"/

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

My first e-book will be released from eTreasurespublishing.com about March 1. I'm working on rewrites of a paranormal romance that I wrote about 20 years ago. And have three other novels I want to rewrite. I also have ideas for 20 other novels that are in various stages of work.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

I want a print contract. I want to be the next Janet Dailey or the next Tom Clancy. I have 40 novels finished; have ideas for 20 more. I could make some agent RICH, if they would give me a chance to show them my work.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I usually write from about 9 am until about 4:30 pm, then watch TV with Phil until about 10 pm, then write for about 3 hours after that before I go to bed.


13.  Why do you write?

Whatever the Elusive Muse sends me-LOL. Seriously, I write science fiction, fantasy, romantic suspense and mysteries, and paranormal romance.


14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

My first genre fiction to read was Andre Norton. She doesn't write HARD science fiction but social science fiction. How does this character react taken out of their quiet boring life and put into a situation where they have to step up to the plate. (Cliché, I know but that's how it makes me feel). That's the kind of science fiction I write too.

15.  How do you define your writing?

Before today, basic story telling, but I went to a writer's workshop over the weekend and it inspired me. I began working at 9 am, as usual, but I didn't eat "breakfast" until almost 2:30 pm.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

"She inspired me to go into writing."

Sharolyn Wells the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

The only website I have available right now is www.myspace.com/shayk1951

I'm hoping to have something else before my e-book comes out.

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

Through myspace. I check it every day.

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

ALL of them? OK...if you want...Ready? Plymouth Colony II is the only book I have coming out within the next couple of months, but I have some I want to submit soon.

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

A love story. More than anything else. No matter what other situations I put my characters through, there will always be romance.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

 I hope people enjoy my writing. I'm not trying to compete with anyone else. I think there's room for all of us. I don't write what you write and you don't write what I write. If we do write in the same genre, you might tell your stories differently than I do mine. But more than anything else, I want people to know that I love romance and all of my stories will have romance in them. And I hope that those who enjoy romance will enjoy my books.

 

Getting to Know Stefanie Holmes
Topic: Author Interview
Stefanie Holmes the person:

1.   What three words do you think describe you as a human being? 

Caring, courageous, and understanding.

2. How do you think others would describe you? 

Sensible, good listener, and good advisor.

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Children, nature, animals, and travel.

4.   Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

I have two cats, one dog, one parakeet, and a hamster.  The way I got my first cat Toby was in my front door step.  His feral mother cat dropped him off before I moved out of the apartment.  I nick- named the feral female cat Gypsy.  I fed her for three years, after I moved in the apartement.  She was really skinny, I felt so sorry for her.  I could perceive her fears and her tribulations as she lived feral in the midst of the neighborhood.  I wanted to adopt her as well, but she would not allow me to get close to her.  She thought about it for a minute, as I was chasing her to grab her.  She stood still, knowing I wanted her with me, but instead she ran with her insecurities instead.   She watched me pack and move away, I felt awful as I prepared to leave, there was a two week cinnamon tabby sitting on the mat waiting for me to take him, as his mother watched me take him in my arms.  It was bittersweet, I took the kitten and we left as she watched me cuddling Toby.  My second cat, was also a stray; she lived in a very bad neighborhood.  My mother took her in before someone would have the opportunity to hurt her.  Her name is Peterpan.  She is black and white and she has a small face with big green eyes and long white whiskers.  The way I got my dog, was also a similar situation.  Winston is a brindle bull mastif-mix.  I sometimes call him Houdini, because he runs away all of the time.  I recall seeing a briddle dog sniffing around the neighborhood, my daughter was outside pointing at the brindle dog.  I have never seen a dog that resembled an hyena, before.  He observed us for a while and wagged his tail and licked my daughters face.  My daughter played with him for awhile, I was watering the plants and offered him some water as well.  To make a short story long, we adopted him.  My daughter loves pararkeets and hamsters.  So I take care of her pocket pets as well.  The parakeet's name is Blue Angel, and the hamster's name is Fuzzy Wuzzy Hampie Doddle Dampy. 

5.   What is your most precious memory?

Meeting my first love.

6.    What is your most embarrassing memory?

Spilling my drink all over my date.

7.   In two paragraphs or less write your obituary. 

As life begins in a rhthm, death begins as a beginning of a different world, where your physical aura cannot enter, but the spirit is welcomed when the rhthm of life comes to pass.

Stefanie Holmes the Writer:

8.  Can describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer? 

Yes, when I was 13 years old.  I had a passion to write fiction stories and poetry.

9.  Whst is going on with your writing these days? 

Writing my second book.

10.  What are your future goals for your writing?

 To write more and more.  To become a novelist.

11.   Can you describe a typical writing day for you? 

Well, there are ups and downs, somedays the words flow without any effort.  Other day, I can't get motivated and I stew on what I want to bring to life in the book.

12.  Why do you write? 

I love it, writing down my thoughts.

13.  What writer most inspires you?

William Shakespeare.  Why? His romance always has drama, just like life.

14.  How do you define your writing? 

Romance with drama and happy endings.

15.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

She is witty.

Stefanie Holmes the details:

16.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?

www.freewebs.com/betweenfineletters  Blog? Blogger, Penfiction, authorsden.

17.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

Coffee shops, book stores, libraries.

18.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Broken Dreams

19. For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

 Romance with paranormal activities and conflicts.

In conclusion:

20.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing? 

I am a new writer and I hope to inspire to become a good writer.  I would like to reach the human heart and spirit.  Writing is a good way to express your information about the world around you.

Getting to Know Bonnie Doss-Knight
Topic: Author Interview
Bonnie Doss-Knight the person:

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Serious, shy, short

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

I polled a couple of friends - the first said, "Spiritual. Reserved in a crowd." The other said, "Spiritual, focused, compassionate."

3.   Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

My spiritual journey, reading extensively and researching ancient/esoteric spiritual practices.

Before the arthritis grabbed me, (a residual trauma of childhood abuse) I accumulated about ten-thousand miles across the dance floor. These days, I could still manage a slow waltz, except that musicians (my husband is one) notoriously have two left feet!

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

Does The Hubear (my husband Hubert) count? No?

Then, four-legged ones do not currently own us, but with sixteen trees, a plethora of bamboo and tangled vines, our backyard resembles a rain forest and all species of creatures live together in peace.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

Looking into the eyes of my newborn daughter. The ancients say we arrive on earth with our memories of Original Home intact. It is an awesome experience to see wisdom.

Sadly, we are conditioned to forget from where we came, until it is time for us to return.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

Once upon a time...I met a gorgeous guy, who looked like Patrick Swayze, who ask me for a dance. Suddenly, I felt a cold draft. The zipper on my jeans had broken! And, I broke into a run toward the ladies room. A very nice lady loaned me a couple of pins and put me back together again. Also, I wore a long silk shirt, which fortunately covered-up the damage.  

We danced.

7.   If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

 My daughter and I formerly owned a gift-basket business. It was a blessing to see the sick folks smile and the little children laugh when we delivered our baskets. So, if I had my way, we'd make pretty baskets again.

8.    In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

As a Truth Teacher, I advocate that the energy we sent out returns to us. Since I'm not ready to cross over just yet, I respectfully decline to write a premature obituary.

Bonnie Doss-Knight the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

In high school, I wrote a fashion column for the school newspaper and my teacher commented that he looked forward to seeing my byline in the New York Times!

When I was about 38, a Gypsy tealeaf reader "saw" me sitting at a computer writing two books twelve years before their conception. She said, "You have a powerful story to tell and the world needs to hear your voice. You will write two teaching books."

At that point in time, I didn't own a computer and as the adult child of an abusive alcoholic mother, I could not conceive of a world, which wanted to listen, much less learn from the pitiful voice of a lifetime victim.

However, I wrote the first sentence of "Chocolate Days & Shadows" (the memoirs of an adult child of an alcoholic) when I was 50. At last, I've proved her prediction - I wrote "The Book - a primer for seekers of higher consciousness" and "Beyond Blue", my second "teaching" book is in the final edit process.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

"Beyond Blue" is coming soon. It is my testament for and about abused children of any age, creed or color, who want MORE. This little pocketful of miracles shows the victim how to metamorphose from their enforced shell of survival and emerge as beautiful spirit beings that they are.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

I'm navigating uncharted waters (for me) by writing short stories.  Baby-stepping out of my genre and into fiction is quite a challenge.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

Unstructured. I have a "real" job and, at times, the arthritis pain is severe, so that I must either type through the pain or research. Of course, I can always pick up my Spiritual Pen and free write.

13.  Why do you write?

Why do I breathe-in and breathe-out? Because I must!

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

I have this vision. I am on a writerly cruise to Maui and I meet my favorite author Stuart Wilde, and say, "Please, mentor me."

He answers, "Super! Why don't we collaborate on our next book Bonnie?"

Mr. Wilde is an inspiration because of his wit and esoteric wisdom. Many times, when I became discouraged while working on "The Book", I would take a timeout and read his work.

15.  How do you define your writing?

I see my writing as a pilgrimage, from the victim I was to the whole, free, peaceful woman I am. In my memoirs, I began the journey. In "The Book", I really learned to know myself, through the guidance of my mentor and exposed arcane knowledge to confused seekers. Finally, in "Beyond Blue", I encouraged other victims/former victims to know Truth about who they are.

The "Begin to Remember" workbooks - "Know Thyself" and "Alchemy Thy Abundance" -  are based on the ancient adage that all we need to know is within us, we only have to remember.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

She was REAL.

Bonnie Doss-Knight the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

My website is: http://esotericjournal.com/

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

They may e-mail from the website and/or comment there.

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

"Chocolate Days & Shadows"; "The Book - a primer for seekers of higher consciousness" and  "Beyond Blue". The workbooks are: "Know Thyself" and "Alchemy Thy Abundance".

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

Because I am a shy, serious, spiritual person they will know only Truth. They will know truth about me from my memoirs and they will know truth about themselves from The Teachings. I believe nothing is higher than Truth.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

Greetings SpiritFriend:

In a perfect world, we would have arrived in a "normal" family of origin committed to the nourishment of our spiritual gifts. This is not true of abused children where the perpetrator repeatedly reinforces our unworthiness and any expression of creativity is stifled.

Never lose sight of your vision. I began my first book at age 50. To recognize your spiritual gift comes with an obligation. To use it for the highest good of all.

I wish for you the power of discernment and the passion to pursue your creativity. If you are a writer, never abuse the power and beauty of words.

May you walk in balance.

And so it is.

 

Getting to Know Gloria Oren
Topic: Author Interview
Gloria Oren the person:

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being? 

optimistic            determined            caring  

2.      How do you think others would describe you?

quiet                 detailed             dedicated             caring               concerned         dependable             humorous            diligent              thoughtful                     

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Outside of my writing I'm most passionate about my family and friends.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

Not currently. Our dear dog, Lucky, passed away two years ago. She was more than a dog. She was part of the family in many ways. She was just turning two when we got her and for the first two years of her life the children in the family she was living with abused her. Lucy was a Dobie-Australian Shepherd mix and when we came to see her she was all skin and bones. My husband was not a dog person so we didn't think we'd go home with one when we headed out the door that morning. But seeing her and the fact that she didn't damage the wooden furniture where she was living nor did she jump all over he agreed to take her home. For a while I couldn't even bring the paper in from outside without her running away in fear I would hit her. She learned with time that the paper was for reading and not a weapon against her and since then became very devoted to all of us. I miss her a lot and hope to one day get another dog.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

Actually there are two. One are my childhood summers up in Carmel, New York at our summer home and two, the day I got the call that led to my reunion with my birth mother.

My adoptive parents owned a summer home in Carmel and mommy and I would spend the whole summer up there. Daddy would join us on weekends and then return to the city to tend to his store during the week. I'd help mommy tend to the rock gardens, go sow the road to our neighbors blueberry bushes and pick fresh blueberries, take walks with mommy down to the bridge over the reservoir where people would go fishing and go row boating with another neighbor. On weekends I'd help daddy trim the hedges and do other stuff. We'd go into town to shop and at the end of the summer we'd all go to the Annual Summer Fair.

On June 4, 1996 at 6 AM my father-in-law called from Israel. He never called at that time since he knew my husband was already at work. This time, however, he was calling me personally. Someone from Jerusalem had called him asking for my address and phone number. He was afraid to give this information so he called me for permission. I asked who the inquirer was and he said it was a guy named Yehudah. Not knowing anyone in Jerusalem by that name I too hesitated so I asked if he had the person's phone number. He did and I wrote it down. I called.

A young child answered and told me that he stepped out to empty the garbage and would return my call if I left my number. I did and five minutes later the phone rang. Yehudah, it turns out, is married to my birth mother's cousin and he was helping my birth mother find me. A half hour later, eight days short of my 41^st birthday I spoke with my birth mother for the first time.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?
 

One day when I was in high school and living in Israel I was waiting for a bus on a main road when out of nowhere a young gal came running down the street calling out my name. I had no idea who it was. Too embarrassed to admit, I couldn't seem to remember who this was and whether I had ever seen this gal before. I said hi and we started talking. Realizing I had no clue who she was, she said, "Don't you remember me? I'm Phyllis. Phyllis rang a bell, but she looked so different from the Phyllis from Florida who attended school with me in Brooklyn, New York. Hesitantly I asked if she was from Florida and she responded in the positive. She was spending some time visiting Israel and how or why she was on that street at the very same time I was is yet unknown to me, but not recognizing her after having been in the same class for at least two years was embarrassing.

7.   If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Like Lea, I too have wanted to be a teacher since I was a child. Unlike Lea, though, I didn't use my Barbie dolls as students. I had five friends in the building we lived in and we would meet once a week at my house where I held a club. We would do activities which I led and other stuff too. I would take attendance, hold "school" for about 15 minutes and then do an activity. During the school session we would practice math, spelling, etc. taken from our homework assignments and make corrections when needed. I actually did attend a Teacher's College and was as close to getting my certification as could be, but thanks to a mean instructor that would not occur. I had turned in three papers (the end of year paper that would determine the grade and two for extra credit) which he claimed to have lost and even though the head of the department had me do a substitute assignment, he would not accept it. Without his grade I wasn't able to get my certificate. The school no longer exists, but I have done some successful part time teaching despite everything.
 

8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

I just couldn't resist. Since I am still here and plan on being around for a long while why not make this a fun exercise. For what it's worth, here is my take on a humorous obituary. Now that's an oxymoron if ever there was one.

Gloria Oren, age unknown, data entry clerk by day writer by night of Redmond, WA is gone. No information on when, where or how guess she just went up and out. Her family wants to be left in peace and ask that you donate the time you'd spend visiting with them by donating to Gloria's passionate charities - the ADA and the AHA, if you can figure that out. If you can't, hold onto your well-earned dollars.

Gloria was a great writer who had a unique humorous style that popped up occasionally. She was a great mother, wife, teacher, and friend. She will be missed but not for long as time has a way of making that happen - you know it makes the forgetter get better.

Gloria Oren the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

I realized I was a "real" writer the day I graduated from the Long Ridge Writer's Group - Breaking into Print - course after writing twelve pieces that never had a request to resubmit. With that encouragement I went to work on the rough draft of my autobiography.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

These days I'm doing several things. The main thing I'm working on is the first revision of the autobiography manuscript. At the same time I am trying to get the articles I have written placed for publication. I'm also starting to publish a new newsletter (via email) for my new Voice of Adoptees project. And to top that off I am doing a review of "Lifeliner: the Judy Taylor Story" by Shireen Jeejeebhoy for Carol Hoenig, a publishing consultant in New York as well as submitting stuff to contests. Now, if that's not enough, I'm also on the AuthorBound Advisor's Board.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

Long-term - to get my autobiography published. Short-term - to get my articles published and successfully build a platform for my book through my newsletter.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I work outside the home so I am up at 5:15 AM daily and spend 2-3 hours in the morning on my writing related work. Depending when I get home I either just have time to check email or do something on the writing front as well before getting dinner ready. I may or may not get another hour or two in on evenings and some time in on weekends but not much. Weekends are usually busy with catching up on housework and errands and when my daughter comes in from college catching up on things with her.

13.  Why do you write?

I just have the urge to put my thoughts on paper and share them with others. It allows me to escape from my role as the do-it-all mom and take some me time. My first doctor I had, here in the states when we came here in 1985, told me that whatever I choose to do in life, to always make room for some me time, some time for me to do what I love doing and only me doing it. Ever since he told me this I have been trying to comply.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

As a child I read so many books that I couldn't begin to point to any particular writer that inspired me. As an adult I'd have to say the writer that most inspires me is Belva Plain. She started her writing career, as an older woman yet has been quite successful. She writes fiction (I know I'm more into nonfiction) but writes mostly family sagas in a style that makes her books feel more real than not.

15.  How do you define your writing?

I write mostly nonfiction bout serious topics of life in an easy to understand, engaging manner. For example, I wrote a piece on andropause. I can hear you say "What?" Andropause is the male middle-age crisis, much the equivalent to menopause in women. The way it manifests and the length of it differs though and to relate a topic like this one which many people have not heard related to by name while not sounding too medical brings the topic down to the level of the lay reader thus informing so many more readers than it would had I written it using a bunch of medical terms.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

After all these years, her easy to understand style keeps me wanting to read more.

Gloria Oren the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

Sure, that's easy.

My main website - Family Matters: http://gloriaoren.com/

My family related/writing blog - Gloria's Corner: http://gloriaoren.blogspot.com/

MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/gloriaoren

My Voice of Adoptees project

Website: http://voiceofadoptees.com/

Family Connections Blog: http://gloria-familyconnections.blogspot.com/

Voice of Adoptees Newsletter: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/voiceofadoptees

MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/voiceofadoptees

Other places

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaoren

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?=1015741261

On Lulu: http://stores.lulu.com/goren  (my daughter's book of poetry which I edited and put together.)

North on I-35 (I wrote the eighth part in what was to be a collaborative venture - guess I stumped them dead in their tracks) http://www.geocities.com/mfcrowl/committeestory/8thgloria.html

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

Sure one can always reach me at gloria.oren@gmail.com

Anything general relating to the Voice of Adoptees project use gloria@voiceofadoptees.com

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

I don't have a published book yet but the autobiography I am working on has had two titles so far. I started out with Miracles Happen: the Story of My Life from Adoption to Reunion and Beyond. I had comments that this was too long. So now it is Forever Bonded at Birth: An Adoptee's Search for Her Roots. Another option I was toying with is Out of Sight, Out of Mind: the Maternal Bond Lives On. Any suggestions feel free to email me them. I know that the publisher may change it eventually but at the same time may not.

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

A good story that holds their attention from start to finish and the realization that when you want something so bad nothing can stand in the way unless you let it. In short, persistence pays off.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

I'm always learning and believe that I'm walking proof that it's never too late to start. I created the website for my Voice of Adoptees project using XHTML 1.0 coding which I learnt as I went along. My motto: Never say can't. If you want to do something you can do it or learn how to do it. I never wrote or published a book yet but I will continue on my journey of learning and one day it will be there in print.