Attitude is Everything

Have you heard that "attitude is everything?"

Ever want to punch the person who said it to you? ;-)

However irritating this full-of-sunshine little phrase, it's true.

I find myself, on this first day of the year, reevaluating my goals and setting paths to achieve them. Yes, I am an ambitious woman by nature. There's a difference this year, though. I am now a returning college student with a major in English and an emphasis on creative writing.

The University of Arkansas' English/creative writing program is ranked among the top 10 in the United States, so I am hyped to be part of their organization. I still have two years before finishing with my BA.

But, completing my education is paramount to future job prospects. I also think it will add credence when I pitch my novels to agents and editors. Really, when has an education ever HARMED anyone?

New experiences await in the coming year, and I'm primed to meet them. Some will be wonderful. Others, heart-wrenching. I already know this. But, I'll greet each with the same attitude -

I'm ready, and by God, my life will be full of rich experiences, published articles, and new information.

C'mon. Join me. 2008 awaits.

Good Reference Book

I thought I'd share a great book I recently bought. It's called Final Exits and is written by Michael Largo. It would be helpful for writers of thrillers, mysteries, and similar.

It's the illustrated encyclopedia of how we die. Retails for $15.95, and it reveals the truth behind kicking the bucket. ;-)

This is a true sourcebook on the ways we die.

Yes, it's a touchy subject. But, Mr. Largo covers things in very interesting ways! Thumb through it the next time you're in a bookstore.

Quotes to Consider for 2008

Hello, friends! So sorry I've neglected this blog. Last post was September? Lord, I'm ashamed.
Want some cool quotes to consider for this new year? Here are a few of my faves:

"We are here on earth to fart around and don't let anyone tell you any different."
-Kurt Vonnegut

"If you try to preserve the past, you will not be able to produce the future."
-Alan Greenspan

"When I am writing, I know I'm doing the thing I was born to do."
-Logan Pearsall Smith

"Loafing is the most productive part of a writer's life."
-James Norman Hall

"Courage is not the absence of fear, but working through the fear to reach the desired goal."
-Lea Milford

"Why not go out on a limb? That's where the fruit is."
-Mark Twain

"All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them."
-Walt Disney

Happy New Year!!