Mr. Bingle

Do you know who Mr. Bingle is? If you do you are probably from South Louisiana.

Mr. Bingle was created by a local New Orleanian, and was used for Maison Blanche Department Store as their own Christmas mascot. Now Dillards Dept Store has taken over the tradition since Maison Blanche is no longer open.

Here is how his story goes:

When Santa left his shop one day
He found a snowman near his sleigh.
"You'll be my helper now," he said,
and tapped the little fellow's head.

The snowman found that he could talk
"look Santa, I can even walk!"
And then he gave a little sigh....
"Oh, how I wish I could fly!"

So Santa gave him holly wings;
then looking through his Christmas things,
found ornaments the very size
to make a pair of shining eyes.

Then Santa said, "You need a hat;
an ice cream cone's just right for that.
And keep this candy cane with you;
you'll see what magic it can do!"

The snowman laughed and sang a jingle
so Santa named him "Mr. Bingle."

You can look up more information about the southern snowman Mr. Bingle at http://www.mrbingle.com/


Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays,
Dawn
http://www.dawnchartier.com/

What a week!

Did I get any writing done? Nope, not a single sentence. It's okay though. I took off writing till next year. (Unless I can squeeze some in during the holidays)

This past week was filled with graduations, office party, house party and then the Saints game. (The Saints won, can you believe it? They are doing so much better than when Bush was in. Take note Coach!)

Now we have the office dinner party this weekend, and I have to finish my shopping. I'm almost done. Then I'll try do some interviews for The Realm. If I haven't told you about the Realm it is a forum for new authors. We (Dawn McClure and Nikki Duncan and I) do interviews and reviews. We chat about everything (writing & reading) there. There is a link on the side if you want to check it out....HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

That's all for now.
Hugs,
Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier.com

Make It Right - Brad Pitt

I happened to stumble across a blog that stated tonight Brad Pitt will be on Larry King talking about this project he is helping in New Orleans. "Make It Right"... Being a New Orleanian myself I was curious.

I've seen many fund raisers where I have to scratch my head and wonder where all the money went, but this fund raiser you actually get to see the houses being built. (At least I will) Now this interests me because one I'm a contractor. (Didn't know that huh?)... And two, I love a good story when it comes to helping people. (I'm a writer, it is in my nature)....

So, I'm going to go on the "MakeitRightNOLA.com" site (I hope that is the correct site), and see what I can donate. I look forward to watching Larry King tonight. Thanks LK, BP and ET for shedding the light.

Hugs,
Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com
Fantasy on the rocks!!

Not again, Saints! Go LSU Tigers!!!

I can't even talk about the Saints game yesterday, It was just sick!!!! Enough said......(I still love ya #55, you did good, but that one guy ate your lunch.)

Okay, now on to better coaches and players.....Gooooooooooo LSU Tigers!!!! National Championship all the way....woooo-hooooo......

Oh, I want to thank those that read my story on THE RAVEN. I got several personal emails which surprised me. So many people out there that love ghost stories.......(so I'm not alone? hehe) and a special thanks for Mandy Roth and Michelle Pillow for posting it on their blog site.......

Have a great day.........
Dawn
www.dawnchartier
Fantasy on The Rocks!!!

My Ghost Story is Up!!!

I know I mentioned this a few days ago, but my true ghost experience is up today...
I'm a little excited, can't you tell....haha...

http://ravenhappyhour.com/ravenblog/

Go check it out, leave a comment......

Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier.com

Buckle Up!!!

"Buckle Up Everyone!!!".....(I had to blog about this one thing)

A teenage boy (19) died in front of my home this past Saturday. He was not wearing his seat belt when his pick up truck flipped over. --- Please buckle up!!!!

Also, parents that are buying "big" speakers to put into their teenagers trucks/cars, please make sure it is secured and strapped into place. This is so dangerous, you have no idea.

Please tell all your loved ones "Buckle Up"...........

Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

My ghost story posted on The Raven 11/29 Thursday

Yep it's true. A friend author told me I should share my ghost story and so I am. This Thursday 11/29 check out http://ravenhappyhour.com/ravenblog/

This story will be posted on Mandy Roth & Michelle Pillow's blog site. Cool!!! I'm excited. I hope I don't freak anyone out with it...Just after you read it let me know what you think....Was it a dream? Hmmm...

Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

Favorite part of Thanksgiving??

Alright, I had my lil outburst from the Saints. I'm better.

Now I've got to plan for turkey day. Just curious what is your favorite part of Thanksgiving? What's your favorite dish?

My favorite dish is "praline yams", yummy..... and the best part is family, I've a lot to be thankful for....

Talk to me,
Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

Saints --- What the heck?

This blog is just me ranting about the Saints loss. (grrrrr...) You can ignore this one, but I had to get it out....

We all want to know what the heck is going on?
I took off work to go to Houston and support our Saints team and what did I get? I was embarrassed. It was terrible. I don't mind losing, but not like that. It seemed like we were trying to lose the game. I won't name players, but guys something is not right with you. 95% of the team just played like their heart wasn't in it. Is it?? You can't blame your fans, because when I arrived at the Hotel and saw tons and tons of fans there I was so proud to be a Saints fan. We drove in by the hundreds, we flew in by who knows how many. But then we have to sit there watching the team play like they could care less. It breaks my heart. We want to see you try harder. That's all. It doesn't have to be a win. Catch the ball and hold on to it. Run your ass off and do your best. Don't keep running Bush up the middle, it doesn't work "HELLO", it doesn't work!!! Now, go practice like you've never done before, and kick some ass. And defense sack the quarterback like your life depended on it. Do some blitzing!!

And coach, what are you doing?? Don't keep doing the same crap if it doesn't work...

Dawn - A loyal but upset Saints fan.

Do people really read blogs?

Yes, people really do read them. So don't trash talk anyone, at any time, no matter your mood...

Okay, now why I'm blogging today. For those that are just learning to seriously write, there is a book I'm going to suggest to you.... It is called "Goal, Motivation & Conflict" The Building Blocks of Good Fiction ~ by: Debra Dixon.......

Yep, it is something I wish I had when I first started writing. A must have....... Plenty of authors suggested many books to me, but this one is simple yet said tons....
Just thought I'd share.....good luck writing......don't give up.....

Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

p.s. Babara V. I added you......

Been a long time --- I'm back....

Man, has it been forever since I blogged.
Been busy of course as always. I'll just give you one small hint.
"Teenagers"..... yep, those who have them I don't need to explain.

Other than that, I've been touring New Orleans, getting books of voodoo and searching for items and such for my voodoo book. Yeah, I know I should have been done long ago. Well, I am done basically, I just need some really good info on voodoo, gotta get it right....

Other than that, lets see, hmm... Oh, I went to K-Con (Sherrilyn Kenyon's conference) It was so great. She is such a amazing lady. I got to meet another sweet lady at the conference and her name is Barbara Vey. She is with Publishers Weekly and she blog's about books and such. Maybe one day when I'm pubbed she'll blog about me too. (hint hint Barbara).

The Holidays are among us, and I love it. Yes, it is stressful, but it is so great to hear Christmas music and mostly everyone is much nicer...(mostly)...

Well, gotta go!
Wish the Saints good luck against Houston, unless you are from Texas that is.

Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

Sheriff Harry Lee

Today is the funeral for Jefferson Parish Sheriff Harry Lee.
This man has been in office since 1979 I believe. For as long as I can remember.
Being a Sheriff in a Parish next to New Orleans you had to be a strong man to handle the crime. And, that is exactly what he was. I can't imagine anyone else replacing him, but when someone does, I can only pray they follow in his footsteps or do even better. (Hopefully better)

I know it wasn't easy for him, but I know he did what he could. Some people thought bad things about him, but he wasn't bad. He was honest, he told the cold hard truth. Didn't sugar coat for anyone... He didn't worry about hurting anyone's feelings, he was there to protect his citizens, and thats what he did.

We'll miss you Sheriff, rest in peace!!

Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier.com

What's going on with me?

Well, not too much, but actually a lot. (haha)
I've been working on my voodoo story trying to get it up to par.
It was going so smoothly until the end, now I think I can get a better ending, but not exactly sure how just yet.

Other than that, don't laugh, I'm taking commercial acting lessons. Yeah, I know. You say "Dawn, your too old to do that stuff."..... I say. "No not really, look at commercials and they are all types of ages, sizes, colors and what ever....... If I feel I can get over my camera phobia, I might just have a chance... Never liked camera's!!! But, if you live in New Orleans film making is becoming very popular, I want to see if I might can fit in somewhere. You all know I write, maybe someone will need a script writer?? Hmmm... The big picture is I'm trying to stop working for my hubby. I need my own space. I want to work, but not full time. (cause I want to write full time) So a friend told me about commercials, and now I'm in classes........so there you go......I've already been a Extra on a movie, haven't seen the movie yet to see if I'm shown or not.... I went straight to video. The movie was called THE LAST TIME......Michael Keaton and Brandan Frasier.....anywho, gotto go.......just wanted to drop by and say hi.......

p.s. I so can't wait to October to get here.... K-Con in New Orleans, including Anne Rice's Vampire Ball......Whooo-Hoooooo!!!!!!

Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com
FANTASY ON THE ROCKS!!!

Update on GENUS

I received 1 pass on GENUS, but the same editor would like to take a look at my new story.
I'll take that as a good sign.

Now I'm polishing up my first 3 chapters of Voodoo Style and will send out to see if it grabs someone's attention. I hope so, I really like it. I think it's much better than GENUS (in a different way). I think GENUS actually would make a great movie...seriously...it's that type of action, none stop...... VOODOO STYLE I think would do good selling books. At least thats the goal...

Anywho, back to writing, just needed to stop by for a short break.

Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier.com

My book pitches

Just wanted to do a quick report for my friends.
My book pitches this weekend went well. I have 3 requests for my new story, which I'm thrilled about. I think this novel is much better than the last...

Heathers conference was great again.

Well, I'm tired, and I'm going to listen to some advice from a editor. She said to stop all the blogging. Write your book instead. Okay, KD that's what I'm going to do. Blogging will be minimum from now on...

So good night from New Orleans,
Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

Heather Graham's Writers Workshop - NOLA

This weekend is the Heather Graham's Writers Conference in New Orleans.
This is the second conference Heather has had so for. But, this out of all of the conferences I've ever attended is my favorite one.

The first year is was small and cozy. I was honored to meet Heather, Christine Feehan, and Kate Duffy, editor, along with many other great authors. "Kathleen Pickering was a sweetheart, she made me and my sister feel very welcome, thanks Kathleen." And I got to meet a great friend Veronika... She flew down last night and I picked her up from the airport, I showed them a little of the Katrina damaged area, stuff you don't truly see on TV. Then brought them to the hotel. I can't wait for it to get started today...I here they have about 50 more registered than last year, but thats fine. The city needs the tourist spending their dollars.......

I'll report at the end of the weekend how it went.
p.s. I have (3) editors appts. to pitch my voodoo story. I'll also let you know about that too.

Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

Remembering Katrina Part III

You know people who don't live here in New Orleans, want to know what the heck is going on?

Why is there so many houses still left as it was after the flood? Why is the government still paying people to help them get on there feet? Why are they still electing idiots into office? What about the mental health of people who lived to tell the story? I'll try and answer the best to my knowledge as I see it.

1.) What's going on? A lot of rebuilding, and at the same time a lot of people still moving out other parishes near New Orleans.

2.) Houses still the same? Yes, there are many reasons for this. 1.) Corps of Engineers created crappy levees, didn't keep them up like they were supposed to. They blame higher government for not paying them to do this. ~ Also many people didn't have insurance, some are elderly and can't rebuild. ~ Then you have some who have insurance, but they won't pay up. ~ Then you have those that are afraid to come back, and afraid to sell hoping they can get the nerve to come back. ~ Then theres those that just can careless anymore.

3.) Why is government still paying some people? Well, I guess they feel responsible for the levee's that weren't built and maintained properly?? I don't know why. I do know sometimes it makes me mad seeing some people take advantage of it, those who can work, those who can take care of themselves, but won't. That pisses me off. Just like it does everyone else. But, most of these people were living off the government before Katrina, so that's that.

4.) Electing idiots? God only knows this answer. I didn't elect them. Most of my friends and family members didn't elect them either. I have no clue how it could have happened? Maybe it was because the mayor bussed in thousands from Houston and where ever, maybe he made the deal sweet for them, I have no clue... It smells is all I can say.....

5.) The mental minds of the victims? This varies greatly. One example, last week I was getting my haircut, and my hair stylist tells me his neighbor died after she dropped her kids off of school. No one knows how she died? She was 39-40? Her home flooded, her husband lost his job, but was in school learning a new trade, school just started for her two little boys, dropped them off and never picked them back up. -- Katrina Stress? Could be. I can believe it.

Then you have people living in there cars, or living in there gutted houses, or fema trailers. People so tired of working on their homes. It's hard work. If only these people can hold out for the reward, they'll be okay.

We need mental treatment clinics/hospitals..there is no help for those depressed, stressed or anything. I can't figure that one out!! Everyday someone commits suicide here along the gulf coast. (still) Though thats not reported...

But then everyday, someone moves back home. You've got the good and the bad. The hurricane didn't destroy New Orleans like it did Biloxi and other Louisiana areas, the levees broke.
No matter what, I'm still glad to call New Orleans my home... I love it!!!

Dawn

Remembering Katrina Part II

This morning the news was on and the newscasters were interviewing people, and showing new businesses up and running. It was great to see this. I try really hard to not venture into the devastated areas if I can help it. But, on occasions I have no choice. My husband and I own a construction company. We've helped re-build many, many buildings so hospitals, stores, clinics, and many businesses can put their workers back to work. It's been a really hard time, but to be honest keeping busy kept me going. All contractors around were so busy we didn't have time to think other than work. There were some who just sat back and did nothing, they were too out of it to jump in quickly and get back on the horse... Some of those are going out of business.

Well this morning and all week I've been hearing the 2 yr. anniversary is coming up, and here it is today. "2 years"... for many people it seems like 20 yrs. or 10 yrs. and to some it seems like just yesterday. Everyone's stories are different, like mine, like my family and my friends.

After I dropped off my daughter at school this morning I was on my way to work. I looked in my rear view mirror and what do I see? Flashing blue and red lights. I know, I know, it was my fault I was doing 30 in a 20, and I hadn't even realized it. He pulls me over, and then he proceeds to introduce himself. (I can't remember his name, it was a stressful moment) He said "hello, I'm officer so & so." I look up at him through my sun glasses. "Good morning sir."
Then he proceeds. "Mam', do you know you were doing 10 miles over the speed limit", I glanced at my speedometer as if that would help me out. "Really? No I didn't realize, I was just trying to dodge all the pot holes." He glanced at my dash board too, and then replied. "Yes. There are a lot of them. Can I see your license, registration and insurance papers." I stare at him and it took a second to absorb his words. "Oh. Okay, sure." I get all the stuff he asked for realizing I couldn't find my current insurance papers, now I'm thinking Oh Sh**!! I hand him the expired one. He looks over it and then glances back at me. "Make sure you don't speed down these side streets anymore. Have a good day."

I'm staring at him dumb founded. Duh. What just happened? The toughest city to get a ticket in, the meanest cops on the westbank, and this guy was a sweetheart. "Thank you," I said and then watched him drive away..... Now it hits me.... My heart thumps hard... If I would have gotten this ticket, it would have been my undoing. I felt my eyes swell with tears, my throat burned, I felt my pulse in my temples. I almost let myself crumble a little today, 2 years after Katrina... The cop saved me by doing a nice gesture and letting me off with a warning. "Thank you!" I feel blessed again, something so simple... This is life after Katrina... Still a little stressful, (or a lot depending on who you are) yet you keep telling yourself "I'm blessed." And I am....

And to be truthful, this is why I love to write and read, why I think millions of people write and read, we all want a fantasy world to escape to. Something to make us feel better when your having a bad day. "To be entertained"...I'm glad I found writing after Katrina, truly. I may not be great at it, but the journey it's taking me along the way is amazing. Oh, and the amazing people I've met in the short two years of writing, wow you'd not believe what great people!!!

p.s. RE: Voodoo Style~ I'm on Chapter 15, didn't finish as I hoped, but I'm still going to push myself. Hopefully before next week, the hubby & I are going to the coast to relax and take a break. --- I'm going to do a little blog at Myspace at well, but a different one. If you want to check it out go to http://www.myspace.dawntheauthor

Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

Remembering Katrina

I will do a couple post today regarding Katrina because New Orleans is my home. Always will be.

Here is a link of some really poetic pictures for the aftermath. Check them out. This news station will have coverage I believe all day and tonight are several special gatherings. The city is coming back, a little slow, but it's still alive.

http://www.wwltv.com

Hope this works.

Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier.com

Finished 13!!!!

I finished writing Chapter 13, and the story is becoming spookier, and more romantic at the same time... Nothing like a good spook for the heroine to get closer to the hero, right?

Kelly is determined to stay in the haunted house, if she leaves, she's afraid Trey will board it up and lock her out, and she has no where else to go. Other than to his place and get her heart broke once again...No thank you, she'd rather deal with a ghost.

Trey is afraid for Kelly staying there alone, the ghost has already hurt her friend, him and he's sure she'll be next. He wants her to go to his place, but she's too hard headed to leave...Women!

On to Chapter 14...........

dawnchartier.com

No writing but watch the Saints kick butt!

Last night I was bad, I didn't write. But, it was worth it. I watched the awesome Saints kick some Chiefs butt.... (I have to make a correction on my last post, I thought they were playing against the Colts, but my hubby tells me NOT!! that will be on a Monday night, but not this monday) Well, what do I know... I have to say all the Saints Players looked great. I have to put a shout out to my favorite Saint "Scott Fujita" #55, Emmm... I love him!!! I'm mean look at that picture, he hit the guy so hard his helmet flew off...Emmm...Yeah, my husband knows, everytime I see him on the screen I sigh, and get that funny look from the man sitting next to me..., I can't help it.... I hadn't seen him play all pre-season because he hurt his foot on a water slide...my poor baby....I'd kiss it for him.......haha... Anyhow, I attached a few pics...and I will get plenty writing done tonight, maybe finish a entire chapter...

FINISHED CHAPTER 12 - YEE DOGGIE...

I feel good, da na na na..I knew that I would..da na na na....(james brown)....yep thats the song in my head...

cause its true I do feel good. I finished chapter 12. I'll start 13 tomorrow...

I need to figure out how many pages I've written total, that will be next.

Tomorrow night is the Saints game (GEAUX SAINTS), I think we are playing the Superbowl Champs "Colts"...love those Colts too, but not this year Colts, it's our turn to be champs for once...

Anywho, just wanted to share my happiness...

Dawn

http://www.dawnchartier.com/

Started Chapter 12

Started 12 last night, didn't get too far with a hubby wanting to spend time with me. (3 pages)
I'll write for lunch today and write tonight too. Seems like I'm always trying to catch up....Hey no one said writing a book in a couple of weeks would be easy. Right?

If I haven't mentioned this before, I'm a co-owner of a forum with two other great wonderful writers "Dawn McClure and Nikki Duncan" check it out at Romantic Realm of Shadows... http://com5.runboard.com/bromanticrealmofshadows (if this link does not work, I have the link listed on the side bar, along with our myspace page too-- we are everywhere..)
We interview authors of all kinds...we give free books away...we chat...we network....we help each other....hope to see you there....

Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

3rd Attempt to blog

I'm not sure what happened yesterday but I tried to post twice, but it didn't work.
Now, I'm trying to remember what I blogged about...hmmm....

Okay, here's what I think I said.
1.) I'm almost done with writing Chapter 11 - Voodoo Style
2.) I published my first article in my local writers RWA chapter called The Last Word - SOLA. (that was fun)
3.) Saturday was SOLA's monthly meeting and we had a wonderful speaker. This lady could give you tons to help you add depth to your characters. She's a psychologist. "Margaret Nichols", and living in New Orleans post Katrina...you do the math....I could have listened to her for 2 more hours at least...too bad it was only 1 hr. Really, she had a very interesting speech and I'd love to hear her again.
4.) Heather Graham's New Orleans writers conference is coming up quickly...(and I'm still not complete with Voodoo Style (my book), it's coming, just not fast enough...yikes!

Ok, that's about it for now. Back to writing....
Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

Update of events

I'm not so happy right now. I thought I posted a new blog, and then went to view the 4 paragraphs I wrote, and they were not there.... That wasn't nice blogger!!!

Now I'll do a summary of everything cause I'm tired and ready for bed.
1.) Finishing up Chapter 11 of Voodoo Style.
2.) I wrote my first article in "The Last Word" Newletter for SOLA (Southern Louisiana Chapter of the Romance Writers of America, Inc. Chapter 42) The article is "My first RWA National conference".....I thought that was cool....
3.) I wanted to mention our guest speaker and a member of SOLA Margaret Nichols did a wonderful job on her speech. "Crazy for you: Adding a psychiatric dimension to your character", I could have listened to her for hours...
4.) Still listening to "Devil May Cry" by Sherrilyn Kenyon : Loving it!!! I saw it made #8 on Best Selling books!! You go girl!!!

That's about it for now...
Take care,
Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com
http://myspace.com/dawntheauthor

Weather looking good / Writing okay too

So far the weather is looking pretty good for NOLA, seems Dean wants to visit Mexico, and maybe Texas. I pray for both of them. I know Texas doesn't need anymore rain at this point, and then nothing like Dean. Keeping everyone in my thoughts.

I wrote 10 new pages today. I'm about to complete Chapter 11. I'm liking where the story is taking me. A little romance, a little mystery, a little spooky, and little action. Nope can't write just about romance and paranormal, have to have it all....

Oh, just wanted to mention. I went to my local RWA meeting this Saturday and our great speaker was Margaret Nichols, she was great. Margaret is a Psychologist. I'd love to pick her brain, and I tried to, but so many people crowded her after the meeting it was impossible. Her speech was on "Crazy for you: Adding a psychiatric dimension to your characters." She talked about some serious psycho people. Great job Margaret! I hope you get to speak again one day.

What I'm reading right now? Well I'm listening to "Devil may cry" by my favorite author Sherrilyn Kenyon. I"m loving all the new things I'm learning from this book, so many answers to questions I've had.." Great job SK....

Bye for now.
Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com
http://myspace.dawntheauthor.com

No Hurricane's for NOLA please

Ok, so Dean is now a hurricane, and I have to say he needs to stay his butt away from the gulf coast. Especially New Orleans / Mississippi area for sure. --- Dean you've been warned.

Now, I have to share a little fun news. My local RWA chapter is publishing a little article I wrote. I'm like oh wow. I'm being pubbed for the first time.. I've been joking with the friends sending them my article and saying I've made it... haha...only us writers truly get it...

I'm just about finished chapter 10, although I'm having a little sticky moment right now on what my character wants to do next...they are not giving too many hints, maybe they want me to be surprised too...ha.. oh well....after my RWA meeting tomorrow we shall see where they take me..

Night yall....Keep your eyes opened on mean Dean...

Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier.com
Writer

Catch up --- Not as much...

Didn't catch up as I planned, but I'm not giving up.
Yesterday I fiddled with a query letter for a contest for Heather Graham's writers workshop.
Kate Duffy is the judge, and as everyone knows she's my idol. I respect her so much, she's been around long enough to know the business inside and out, and I totally admire that about her. So, anyway I worked on my query, I think it's directly to the point straight into the action like she likes it. Anyway wish me luck on the contest, would be great if she loved the story even if it doesn't win. I'm still on Chapter 9, but I'm going to bust my booty to get it completed by the time this conference comes. (First Draft, not polished). I can do it -- I can do it --- I can do it.....

Good luck to those in Fast Draft this week and next, may the writing gods be with you.(haha) Thanks again Candace Havens & Nikki Duncan for the free book, and for the valuable info on your website with the Fast Draft class....Awesome!!!

Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

Been out

Sorry I haven't updated my blog lately, I was sick with a magraine on Thursday, I rarely get those but when I do they kick my butt. Friday was at the Saints first pre-season home game. They played well, but lost by 3. Saturday went to the French Qtr. with the hubby to meet artist Juan Mendina. Wonderful artist, very talented... Today, I'll get back to the laptop and try to play catch up. Have the house to myself, should do well....

I'm starting Chapter 9.

Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

Page Count about 10

I actually forgot to count today, and I'm not sure what page I started on, I think I did about 10 pages today.

Long day at work so a little too tired to push myself harder. I had to stand outside in the 110 (felt like) temperature at a jobsite in Houma. Seriously, actual temperature was around 95. Can you say "HOT!!!"

I'm about done on Chapter 8, have about 12 chapters to go. Yikes! haha... Not bad, I should be complete the first draft in a few weeks....

Can't wait till HEATHER GRAHAM'S New Orleans Writers Conference, it's going to be a blast!! Last years was, this year will be even better.... Aug 30-Sept 1 (sign up if you haven't yet!) Come on down to New Orleans! (I promise to keep the voodoo away from you.-haha)

Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

11 pages today

Seems like I'm not doing as well as I hoped on fast draft, but the good thing is I'm writing everyday. I've not given up. I think 6 pages was my min. and today I wrote 11 pages. Not bad in one hour. (I did that on my lunch break at work). I planed to do more tonight, but the office had an outting and we all had a couple drinks, now I've got a bad headache. Not from drinking, but from laughing so hard. And my boss has a huge laugh, and he laughed right in my ear most of the time. Ouch... I tried covering my ear so he' d get the hint. It didn't work.

Okay, if anyone is in Harahan, LA try the new Copelands, it re-opened and the food is great. Not so much on the Westbank, but Harahan's is much better.

Goin' to bed.
Tomorrow will push more.
Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

Fast Draft Update -- Voodoo Style

Today I'm up to Chapter 7. I wrote 6 pages this morning. Took a break. My daughter called and said she had a wreck. My heart never pumped so hard in all my life. I get to the scene, and she's crying the airbags are out, the front of her car bashed in, the windshield broken, but most important she is okay. A hurt arm, and sore body, but over all, she's okay. (sending a thank you prayer upstairs). My nerves are a little shot so I don't think I'll write anymore till tomorrow.

I think I'm doing pretty good so far. Seven Chapters not bad.

Take care, I'll be writing tomorrow early.
Night,
Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier.com
Fantasy on the Rocks!

Tired Tonight

Tonight the brain doesn't want to be creative for some reason.
I could just type a bunch of crap which would be better than a blank page,
but I'm just beat. Tomorrow I work 1/2 day, I'll try and catch up.
I wrote 6 full pages today, my goal was to at least write a chapter a day.
I'm about 8 or 9 pages short.

Yikes, a spider was just crawling on my leg. Gesh, it was testing my heart out I guess.
Living in the woods is great sometimes, other times I wonder how they grow those bugs so big out here?? Amazing.

Till tomorrow, It will be a more productive day, I promise myself.
Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier.com
Fantasy on the Rocks!

Websites before you are published??

If you are playing around with the idea of creating a professional website before you are published, let me recommend you go for it. Reason number one is to show how serious you are about writing to the publishing industry. They get to see a little about you on the website. I think it's important that editors and agents know a little about you as you do about them. It's a relationship, no more like a partnership. Both wanting the same results. To sell lots of books.
They should like you and mesh well with your personality (at least most of it), and you with them. That is very important. Gotta be happy first, then rich second.

Second reason to have a website is because you get e-mails from readers that ask "when is your book coming out?" I love it when people email me and say I love your excerpt, when and where can I find your book? It's a thrill to see they are actually interested in something you are writing. That can do wonders when your in the midst of writing your next manuscript. I huge boost... I always tell them, I'm going to add your e-mail to my list and you'll be one of the first to know when it hits the shelves. And believe me, they will be one of the first along with my entire family, friends, neighbors, postman, grocery store clerk, children's teachers, my hair stylist, pretty much anyone I know and meet. ... I "so" can't wait for the day... You'll hear me scream all the way from New Orleans. So yes, get a website. If you can't afford a professional one, then just do a temporary one. Yahoo provides a template where you can type up to I think 200 words, it's really cheap. Do it if you are serious about writing. Oh, and keep it updated, very important.

FAST DRAFT UPDATE: Okay, tonight I have 18.5 pages to write. I wrote 1.5 this morning before work. Not bad in twenty minutes time.

Have a great Thursday,
Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com

15 pages Fast Draft

Well tonight I finished an entire chapter. Not too bad, huh.
I would have liked to at least write 20 pages, but the chapter ended at 15 pages long.
I'm too tired to start on chapter 6, so I figured I'd rest up and start again tomorrow.
Can I write the entire chapter 6 tomorrow? I think I can. I'll let you know.


Listening to: The news in the back ground from the t.v.

Night ya'll.
Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier.com

Reading and Writing

Hi Everyone -
Hope you had an awesome weekend. Mine was pretty good. Got some writing done, which is always a good thing. But last night was "me" time. I picked up a book and started reading the Harrowing by Alex Sokoloff? (I'll have to post her last night later I know it, I just cant spell it) Anyway, I'm up to Chapter 21 I believe and this story gave me nightmares last night. Really, real nightmares. I couldn't sleep a wink last night. Alex I'm mad at you for that...today I'll be too tired to write! But, I will say the story is great. This is Alex's first book, the writing is not perfect, but it didn't matter or bother me in the least, The book is a great story you just don't want to put down afraid you'll miss something....Now if you look for mistakes then its your loss of a good story...just go with the flow... Its a tale about some college misfits who tap into the a ghost who died at the college many years ago. He speaks to them thru the wiji board (sp?), and ends up doing things for them, some good, some not good at all. I'll let you know my opinion when I'm finished, but I'm a little scared to keep reading it right now. I need to sleep sometime... I am to find her next book once I'm done with this one.

Update: It's been 4 weeks since I sent Kate Duffy my partial, I probably have another 3 months of waiting. But, I respect she's so busy, I'd be afraid if she wasn't. (I just remembered something, did I send an SASE? Holy crap!! I hope so.)

Well, next time I see Kate in New Orleans, I'm going to query her with another book. Hey, I'm a new writer, I can only get better right? (haha-- just say yes..)

Tonight: I'm planning to make pralines for a wonderful author friend.. (I hope I do better this go round; yesterday's didn't fair so well. Try, Try Again.)

Good luck on reading, writing, finding the next best seller, whatever you need or want...
Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier.com
Fantasy on the Rocks!

I'll post tomorrow

I'm still kicking. Just been a crazy last two days...
I'll post something tomorrow...

I will mention one little thing. My RROS partners and I (Romantic Realm of Shadows), we created a myspace page. (We do reviews, book announcements, contests, chat, whatever) It's up, but we haven't decorated it yet. If you have a myspace page send me your addy and I'll hook you up with us... our myspace is: http://myspace.com/romanticrealmofshadows (great free networking)

Mine is http://myspace.com/dawntheauthor


Have a great day...

Listening to: I have no idea?? haha

Dawn Chartier

Update on fast draft

Well, I pretty much revised 3 chapters (as you can see I didn't say write), I already had 3 chapters written, so I tweaked them and added more depth into my characters. (I probably wrote 10 pages total) I added more depth to my first sex scene as well. It's much better if I can say so myself. So I've started on Chapter 4 tonight, and hope to finish it by tomorrow.

I find my writing is still improving, but I still have a hard time with POV. I head hop too much. I'm really bad for wanting both my hero/heroine to have equal amount of time in my scenes. It sucks having to decide who is more important. I think they are both equal.

I finished listening to Steven King on writing, but one of the cassettes broke #5. Now I have no idea what I missed. I found him to be very interesting. Did you know he almost died after being hit by a van? Yep. He's been through hell and back poor guy.

I also skimmed inside a book called "Show, don't tell". (or something like that). I plan to read the whole thing, just haven't had time yet. (I'm writing!)

Okay, on a more serious note. Today Dr. Pou was aquitted (sp?). You don't know how much it means to me and all people in the medical field to have this happen. Dr. Pou is a wonderful doctor, a wonderful person. No one knows the crap she went through in that hospital, and after the ordeal of patients dying around her with no air, no electricity, no help for 4 days, having been accused of murder.... I couldn't imagine being in her shoes.... Doctors around the world were waiting to hear the outcome, some would leave New Orleans and never come back if the outcome was bad. We are already tons short in the medical field, this would have devastated us even more. --- Okay, I've ranted a little which I try not to do often, but this was important to me and New Orleanians.. (you'd have to live here to totally understand).... This was a giant step for us in a positive way, finally!

Back to writing Voodoo Style...
Listening to: Nothing but the fingers type on the keyboard...

Dawn
Fantasy on the rocks!
check out my awesome website: www.dawnchartier.com
or myspace at dawntheauthor

Fast Draft starting today for me

Well, if you've been reading my blog, you are aware that my story GENUS was born from Fast Draft. Fast Draft was introduced to me by Candace Havens. It is a challenge where you write 20 pages per day for 2 weeks. (I know you are laughing or your eyes are bugging out, but it does work..I've done it.) 280 pages, a book!!! (after FD is over, then you can join in on Revision Hell, I've not done it the proper way, but next time I will) -- go to Candace Havens website (see right column for her web site if you want to join the fun)

This time though I'm starting a week early. My girls are with their father all week, which means I'll be very lonely (boo-hoo), so this is a great time for me to start. My fellow writers are starting next week. Okay, this will give me 7 extra days so when I do get my girls back, I'll be able to give them extra love and attention and take time off of fast draft and still be on track. (Am I cheating, well. . . yeah!) But, as long as I get er' done...right? Right!

Fast Draft is more to me than just writing a book in two weeks, it is a freedom of writing what ever the heck pops into my brain, I already know my story, but this will take me on journey of writing high or is that High Writing? Anywho, Fast Draft is more than just freedom to write, it is when our writer friends join together and keep each other accountable for our daily goals. We cheer each other on and then crack the whip when needed. (yahpow)...(look out slackers!)

Wish me luck! Lets hope Voodoo Style first draft will be completed in two weeks, ah that sounds awesome!!

Dawn Chartier

Steven King

Picture from the Dallas conference. Top- Me, Sherrilyn Kenyon (love Sherri), and Dawn McClure, Middle pic is Me, Majorie Liu, Nikki Duncan and Dawn McClure. Bottom- Gina, Me, Dawn McClure and Nikki Duncan. (and hiding behind Dawn M with the shades on is J.R. Ward/Jessica Bird, who happened to win a Rita) How cool is that....

In my prior blog I mentioned I was listening to Steven Kings audio on writing.

I will recommend this to anyone that is a pantster like myself. And some of those that are not. I started thinking that something was wrong with me, because I couldn't plot for the life of me. And, when I did plot, my characters didn't like it. They wanted to take my story somewhere else. Not where I wanted it to go. So now hearing Steven King say plotting is not the only way to write, it makes me feel so much better... I can't quote him exactly, but he said something along the lines of, tell the story that comes out of you. Allow Freedom in your writing. Be honest. Tell the truth. Freedom to me is not having a plot figured out just yet. I know I want to take my characters on a journey, a growth of some kind that I can relate to. Then I love to twist them up in "what if?" situations, and see what happens to them.

No plotting for me. Freedom all the way!!! Yes!!!

You know learning to write is hard. And trying to figure out what advice to listen to is even harder.

I've been listening to everyone, do this and do that, and you shouldn't talk like this or like that... Blah!!! Enough already.... I'm learning my way, I know my grammar lacks, but guess what, I'm going to write a story for me. To entertain myself, and then I can only hope it entertains someone else too. That is me being honest. Thanks Mr. King. And thanks for those crit partners who told me this along time ago, but I was too green to understand it....

Dawn Chartier

Fantasy on the rocks!

http://www.dawnchartier.com/

What I'm reading?

Since I've been back from Nationals I've been reading up on writing. Sounds strange don't it.
"The Writers Journey 2nd Edition - Mythic Structure For Writers" by Christopher Vogler", I'm really getting into this "how to" book as I call them. This is a practical guide of the Archetypes and also stages of the journey. It explains the different type of hero's/heroine's and the steps they mostly take. Example: Ordinary World, Call to Adventure, Refusal of the Call, and so on...I'm feeling educated.

I sure wish I would have read this two books ago. Oh well.

Another book I'm reading (no, make that listening to) is Stephen King's book of writing. That man is a trip. Seriously. He talks about his adventures in life and has he been through some major stuff, I had no idea. But, the important thing is I've learned from his stories. .

I haven't written much this week, my brain still hasn't arrived yet from Dallas, though my books have. I plan to work a bunch this weekend on Voodoo Style, and my goal is at least 30-40 pages. No problem...

So I hear there is a little buzz going around about a couple nice authors who dressed in mini-skirts. I was there, I don't see what the fuss is about. They were in costume, no biggie. They are promoting their characters or books or something, but whatever. Again, no biggie! To each their own is my motto. Hey Kenyon wore a swan hat, I loved it. Is their buzz going on about that?? If so, I'll help cause I love Kenyon. She's the sweetest author I know. I hope she and the other authors have a blast at comic-con, I wish I was going too. Growing up in my parents book store, I read tons of comics. All types. Good luck ladies, let the buzz ride...(cheap promo, haha)

This National was my first, and won't be my last. I say have the most fun you can, dress how ever you like, do what ever you like. (just don't hurt me, haha)... Now count down to Heather Graham's Conference in New Orleans, talk about costumes....

Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier.com
Fantasy on the Rocks!

2007 Rita Winners - Congrats to you all.....

Just in case no one has seen this info yet, here are the winners fo the 2007 Rita's.

...and the winners are!Romance Writers of America congratulates the following winners of the 2007 RITA award:
2007 RITA Winner for Best Traditional Romance
Claiming His Familyby Barbara Hannay
Harlequin Mills & Boon, Romance - (373039077) Kimberley Young, editor
2007 RITA Winner for Best Short Contemporary Romance
From The Firstby Jessica Bird Harlequin Enterprises, Silhouette Special Edition - (0373247508) Stacy Boyd, editor

2007 RITA Winner for Best Long Contemporary Romance
The Mommy Quest by Lori Handeland Harlequin Enterprises, Harlequin Superromance - (373713347) Johanna Raisanen, editor
2007 RITA Winner for Best Paranormal Romance
A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley ColePocket Books, Star - (1416509879) Lauren McKenna, editor

2007 RITA Winner for Best Inspirational Romance
Revealed by Tamera AlexanderBethany House PublishersKaren Schurrer, editor
2007 RITA Winner for Best Romantic Novella
'Tis the Silly Season' in A NASCAR Holidayby Roxanne St. Claire Harlequin Enterprises, HQN - (373771568) Abby Zidle, editor
2007 RITA Winner for Best First Book
The Husband Trap by Tracy Anne Warren Ballantine - (345483081) Charlotte Herscher, editor
2007 RITA Winner for Best Short Historical Romance
The Book of True Desiresby Betina KrahnBerkley, Jove - (515141704) Christine Zika, editor
2007 RITA Winner for Best Long Historical Romance
On The Way To The Wedding by Julia Quinn Avon Books - (0060531258) Lyssa Keusch, editor
2007 RITA Winner for Best Novel With Strong Romantic Elements
A Lady Raised Highby Jennifer Ashley w/a Laurien GardnerBerkley - (515140899) Ginjer Buchanan, editor
2007 RITA Winner for Best Romantic Suspense
Blackout by Annie SolomonWarner Books - (446616311) Melanie Murray, editor
2007 RITA Winner for Best Contemporary Single Title
Adios to My Old Lifeby Caridad Ferrer
Pocket Books MTV Books - (1416524738) Lauren McKenna, editor
© 2007 Romance Writers of America, Inc. Home Privacy Policy Legal Disclaimer

© 2007 Romance Writers of America, Inc.

RWA Nationals Scoop

Oh man, Oh man. I'm having a blast. I had no idea it would be like this.
Please forgive me if I have major typo's I'm trying hard not to pass out.
The classes, the mingling with like minds, and star sighting (as I like to call it, like pictures with Nora, Kenyon, etc. WOW!)

Was it worth it? Yes. I would say absolutely. I didn't have an appt., but I didn't need one. I just wanted to chit chat with the editors and agents to get to know them, not try to sell something to someone I have no idea if I like or not. I wanted to pick their brain a little, scope them out some and see if we match. Let me say I was pleasantly surprised editors and agents are very nice and down to earth and are doing the same as I was. That's what it's all about (besides selling books of course) but if you don't blend well, then why??

Well, tomorrow is another day full of workshops etc. I'll try to go into details of what "I" got out of it. May not work for me or others, but maybe it might, who knows.

Dawn Chartier
Fantasy on the Rocks!!

Not sure why but my title doesn't work today. The title is Word Painting.
This book was recommended to me by Lori Handeland. Word Painting by Rebecca McClanahan is a guide to writing more descriptively.
This is the book I will be bringing with me to RWA Nationals, which I plan to dig into on the very short plane ride. I bought a few other books Lori recommended which haven't arrived yet, maybe I'll get them before I leave, but at least I have this one to start on.

People keep asking me if I'm excited. Of course I'm excited. Firsts are always very exciting. I even think my first rejection if/when I receive one will be exciting. It will make me official in some type of way.

Well I have several writer friends phone #'s, spoke to several authors who told me to come say Hello, and now I just need finish washing 4 loads of laundry from my camping trip by tonight so I can stuff my suitcase once again. Weeeeeeeeeeee..... Yep, I'm so happy.......... I just wanna learn!!! All the more the better......... I know all this will pay off and one day I'll get that book out there... When I do, I'll be screaming from the top of my house....hahaha....

Night all,
Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier (have you checked out my awesome website yet?? You gotta)
Fantasy on the Rocks!!!

Got my crit back from Lori Handeland

Yep, Lori sent it to me last night. Thank you Lori, that was really fast.
She offered excellent advice. And a few things she suggested, I'd already done on my own. I'm glad she confirmed what I thought. It helps to have that confirmation... And a few other things I realize from her crit is too much "telling" and not enough "showing".... I know I've heard this a million times and until someone points it out, finally the light goes on... (I'm buying books she suggested)

Now I'm sitting here thinking all these things I need to work on, and that I sent this to editor Kate Duffy. Too late now. So, what should I do? Well, Kate knows what she likes and what she doesn't. I'm sure she's come across newbie writers before, and then has seen them all grown up and published...(that'll be me, I can only hope) And all I can truly do is continue to write to improve my skills. I have lots of learning to do, and patience is the biggest lesson. It's all in the process, and I 'm enjoying every step of the way. One day I'll get there. Maybe tomorrow, maybe next year, who knows....

Happy 4th everyone,
Dawn

July 4th Week - Writing and Reading

Well this week I plan to write and read. I have my synopsis all done and I tend to use it this go round. If plotting doesn't work for me, then I'm back to righting on a whim.

Well, what are we doing for the 4th, well we are going camping. First time in our travel trailer, should be fun. Then next week is the big RWA Nationals, whoo-hoo!!! Yes, I'm very excited.

Why? Well because I get to mingle with like minds. All writers know how it is at home. No one their to really share your goals and excitement about writing. I mean we share it, but it's not the same with someone who truly knows how it works. How truly hard writing can be. Some hubbies think it's just a fun hobby. Some think it's a mid-life crisis. Some just think we lost our minds. Well for me it is none of those. Writing is something I must do. I do it to release the story within me. I do it to improve my writing style. I do it because I have to. I want to.

Alright, enough about that. Now, I need to figure out which book I want to take with me camping to devour at night while the hubby is sleeping.... Hmm... JR Ward? Feehan? Kenyon? Too many choices...argh!!

Happy 4th everyone, be safe and have fun, enjoy our independence. Oh and I want to share my made-up book cover my web designer and I did. (him mostly I just picked out the girl)

Dawn Chartier

Fantasy on the Rocks!

3 Chapters

Well, I sent my three chapters & synopsis to Julie Kenner yesterday for critique on my story Voodoo Style. Hopefully she gives me some good pointers/advice or maybe she'll just say it's "Great" haha.. that would be nice too..



I also sent a partial out yesterday to a editor in NY. Yep, I know this NY editor is swamped & it'll be awhile before I hear anything back. The partial was GENUS. I sent it next day. Does anyone do that? I know it cost a few more bucks, but I just like knowing it got there instead of lost in the mail. Now the waiting game begins. I'm excited. I'm looking for some feedback.



If it's rejected, so be it, I'll try again. And I know editors don't have time to give everyone a letter explaining why. Too busy, I know...but I can dream can't I??? --- Anyone who sent out submissions lately, Good Luck to all of you....



Yikes, I'm getting more excited about the RWA Nationals, can't wait to meet some great ladies who like the same things I do. Reading and Writing!!!! Can't wait to meet my roomies too....



Dawn

~Nothing happens unless first a dream~

Finished Synopsis

I finished my synopsis this weekend for Voodoo Style.
I'm working on polishing my first 3 chapters to send to Julie Kenner for her critique, wish me luck.
Anyhow, I hope to be done in a few days. I've got work to do during the day and at night I need to start shopping for a dress for the RWA Nationals. I have no clue what to wear. I hate dresses. No really I do. Put me in my jeans and a t-shirt, that's me....

Still working on the revisions for GENUS too, trying to divide my time in half on these two books. GENUS is done, but I gotta fix the errors...yep, plenty of them too...

I'm sitting at work listening to the thunder rumble and the rain hit the roof. I should have left earlier, but now I'm caught here....so I'm blogging...

Have a great day,
Dawn Chartier
http://www.dawnchartier.com
Fantasy on the Rocks!! (Tonight it will be Baileys on the rocks--the slush!)

What am I working on?

Well today (or was that yesterday) I can't keep up. I sent 3 chapters and a overview of my story Genus to Lori Handeland to critique for me. (yeah I cannot believe it either) I bid on her expertise from Brenda Novak's auction and I won. I know she is a wonderful author, I just hope she's not over there laughing her head off at my attempt to write. Yes, I'm still new at this gig, and have doubts as all new writers do. No biggie!

I honestly feel GENUS is a terrific story, and a very unique story with plenty of action and twists. What I worry about is they way I venture off on a tangent without filling the reader in on what my mind is thinking.. Ever do that?? I write from the hip, and it is my biggest down fall when plotting. I hope she can give me a few tips on the first three chapters so I can hook me a editor or agent. I know I have great stories in my head, I just need to polish up my techniques on a few things that I know can be learned. It will be learned.

I also bid on a critique from Julie Kenner and won. I haven't read her stories yet, but I plan to. She is going to receive 3 chapters/synopsis on Voodoo Style, my haunted house/voodoo story. I just have to hurry up and tidy up my synopsis to send to her and that is what I'm working on right now.

I'm enjoying this writing process. Okay, I know it gets really really really hard when you receive rejection after rejection, and I'll probably ball my eyes out. Yes, I won't lie I know it is going to hurt. But, not now. At this time, I think if I get a rejection I'll try and look on the bright side of things, and say well now I can apply for PRO. Woo-Hoo, I finished an entire book.... That has to count... At least it does to me...(then I'll cry a little) I only hope that the agent/editor can say why they didn't think it fit with them. That would help...

I so can't wait for Nationals, this will be my very first. I hear you learn so much and meet so many fellow writers/publishers/agents and just everyone who loves the same things I do. Reading and writing of course!

Well, I better go back to work on that synopsis. Wish me luck.
I feel great today.

Dawn Chartier
http://www.dawnchartier.com (still loving my site, thanks Chuck!)
Fantasy on the rocks!

Spooky Website Completed

Well I must say how happy I am with my new website. I totally love it.
The web designer did a wonderful job (am I allowed to brag??) I can't help it, I'm just so darn pleased....

So things I've been up to lately? I've been revising GENUS and stressing over what to wear at Nationals...all right gotta get back to work.

Bye for now,
Dawn

New Website almost done - Genus Revision #1million (hehe)

Hi Everyone ~
My new website is almost ready.
You get a little tease of it above in my title. Its spooky if I might say so myself. I love it.
I'm really tired right now so I'm going to pass on a true blog tonight.
p.s. I'm revising/polishing GENUS again (yes again). I received a professional editor crit and she gave me lots to think about. I'll keep you posted once I fix it up and send it back out.

Night,
Dawn
www.dawnchartier.com
www.myspace.dawntheauthor.com

The Dream-Hunter -- My review

I just finished reading the Dream-Hunter novel by Sherrilyn Kenyon. I have to say I'm going to have to re-read it because I was half way reading her novel and half way trying to write mine.

I will say this, you have to change your Dark-Hunter mode and realize Dream-Hunters are a totally different breed. Being use to her Dark-Hunters I sort of thought they would be like them, but they are not. Was this a bad thing? No, of course not. I truly enjoyed the book and got hooked into another world of Kenyon's imagination. Geary and Arik are both very likeable characters, and the secondary characters you just know need to have their stories told as well. At least I know Kat's story will. Just remember turn off your Dark-Hunter mode and think less "Hunter" in my opinion, more of a nice guy (at least Arik was), which is not a bad thing.

Looking forward to reading her next one, in any of her series.

Dawn

Todays the day - Hurricane Season Starts and Fast Draft

Shhh. I'm really not supposed to be on the blog. I need to be doing my fast draft pages today. (back to that later)

(Shivers) Today is the first day of hurricane season, and yes their is a tropical depression already out there. Scary thought. Am I prepared?? Well no, not exactly. I do have a plan though. Load up my travel trailer and high tail it out of here. Okay, so I need to equip the trailer with items such as food, (important stuff) etc... but the main thing is I have a bed to sleep in this go round that is not in a dumpy cheesy dangerous motel. Now, I'm not being picky at all. I mean sleevyville motel that you see on t.v. shows where you are scared to death to sleep because gangs are right out side your door kind of dump. (thats where I was last Katrina go round). My family wasn't happy either but we have a family pet and it was the only place that took him in, and I could see why...

My plan is to get a list from our local news station and get all the necessary items as they suggest and then I'll be ready freddy. No need for a evacuation order from our mayor/parish president. I'll be long gone.

Okay back to the fast draft thing. This was started by Candace Havens, and it's called Fast Draft, you actually write a book (280 pages) in 14 days....or longer if needed, but thats the goal. 20 pages a day. I did it once (in 15 days) and it was the best feeling in the world. (thanks Candy, now fellow readers go buy her awesome books) I allowed myself to write utter crap, my internal editor was turned off and I just rode the wave that it took me on. That's how GENUS: SPECIES was created. In two weeks. Well, it took my about 6 months to revise it, but that wasn't all straight time, I took alot of time off in between that. (just so you know )....Candy also has a revision class, which I didn't take, but needed to...Next time!!

Alright, I gotta get back to my fast draft pages. Wish me luck!!

Dawn Chartier
Fantasy on the Rocks!

Happy Memorial Day!

Hi Friends ~
Just wishin' ya'll a Happy Memorial Day.
Today we had a crawfish boil with the family, it was very nice.
We swam and ate, and ate and ate...hehe...
We love crawfish here in New Orleans, it's what we do for most occasions.

Well lets see what's going on in the writing world. Not much last week. Taking a breather and working on my website.... I'm hoping to be up in a few weeks and I'll let everyone know....I'm excited about it...It's dark....

Have a great day everyone,
Dawn Chartier
Fantasy on the rocks!!!

Katrina, that Bitch!

Katrina--that Bitch! I've always wanted to say that.

People often ask me how the city is coming along. (New Orleans).
And I have to say it truly depends on who you ask.
For me, Hurricane Katrina sent me and my husband into a whirlwind after it hit.
We are in construction, so obviously we became swamped in a bad, yet good way.
In a good way we were able to help several hospitals and medical facilities re-open as fast
as we could. We knew patient beds were few, so we busted our butts getting them back open. Our own office was flooded and needed attention, but we saved it for last. Honestly, we were too exhausted to deal with our own problems after helping others deal with theirs. -- But at least I was so damn busy, I didn't have time to sit back and think about alot of things my mind was burying that could have easily thrown me into depression.

Katrina just like any disaster brings out the best and worst in people, always has, always will. The government pointing fingers at each other. Nothing ever resolved. Some residents will never come back and others will never leave. My brother left and won't come back. Some waiting on Insurance money or the Louisiana Road home money before they decide what they are going to do. It's all just so crazy. Everyone that has remained is scared of next season, (June 1st) because the levee's aren't all back to the way they were before Katrina. (which wasn't much to begin with as we saw). I have a levee directly down my street and often think how fortunate I was that mine lucked out due to a jog in the hurricanes path.

But, there are people like myself. We try to hide from it. I don't like to watch the news, I don't like to venture into the areas where you see X's still painted on houses and no one lives there anymore. Just this Saturday we went to a friends birthday party. It was at her cousins boat house on Lake Pontchartrain. As my husband drove down West End Blvd. I felt my chest tightning, and my breathing becoming rapid. My temples were killing me from holding back the tears that wanted to burst free. The houses were like a grave symbol to me. They were dead and empty. I could still see the water mark about 10 feet high. There were a few rebuilding here and there, but not much. My heart hurt for them.

I became sad on the drive to the party seeing this up close again. I had to put on a fake smile once we got there, but after awhile I began to enjoy myself, and pretended all was well once again and forgot about what was next door to this boat house. An empty one, and other empty one. Just down the street all the restaurants were washed away, the good ole' seafood restaurant that you sat on the porch peeling crawfish and shrimp. Sucking heads and pinching tails as they say here locally. (crawfish that is).

No one knows what it is really like until you see it first hand. And we all can argue over the politics, I'll be the first one to tell you "THEY SUCK", especially in New Orleans, and stupid people re-elect them again... But, seeing destruction, death and a city hit rock bottom like that truly breaks your heart. At least it does mine. I love this city. Crime, crooked politics and all! I'll never move. I will continue to rebuild one building at a time and hope more and more people come back to this beautiful, but flawed city. Any thoughts, comments and questions are welcomed. --- I LOVE NEW ORLEANS!!!

Dawn (sorry for the typo's. I didn't spell check this time)

Being creative

I think most writers have a very creative brain by nature. Always having ideas in their minds wanting to put it on paper/computer to get it out. This is the point I'm at today. I've finished Genus and now I want to just let some creative juices flow. Take an idea I have and just write all about what I want to happen. I didn't start it yet, but I will probably tomorrow.

I hate to say this but I'm so glad school is out for the kids. Now I can stop with the late homework or late studies, believe it or not I feel like I'm back in school. So when the summer comes, I feel like it's more free time to write.

Well, here's to all your creative juices, I hope they are flowing like a river.

Happy writing,
Dawn

New James Bond

I'm just curious what everyone thought of the new James Bond? The movie? The actor?

I'll give my opinion. I loved the movie and the actor. I found his role was more along the line of what I would think of a real secret agent to be like. He got dirty. He got mad. He didn't listen. He fell in love. He seemed more real to me in this movie then all the others before him.

I'll always love the prior James Bond movies and actors, but I just love this one more.

What's your thoughts?
Dawn

Websites for unpublished writers

Should you have a website if you are not published?
Well, that is a question that I think would depend on your situation.
If you are a writer, and feel you want to put your name out there because you are going to write until someone publishes you, then I'd say "yes" get a website.
Even if it's a cheapy site on that cost a few dollars a year for one little page, why not?
I think it shows you are serious about writing. I think it will be easier if someone does want to search you like most people do today.

I wouldn't spend more money than you can afford, but you know you will need to spend some.
I did a yahoo one page template it cost maybe $3 per year. That's it.... Now the page is plain and simple, but being that I hadn't finished a book yet that is why I went that route. And now, I finished a book and I'm serious about finishing more, I'm paying someone to do a professional one. One that represents who I am, and what I like. (which is fantasy, mysterious, spooky & some romance)...

So it's up to you. But if you are serious then you need to put your name out there. The website is the best place and the cheapest advertising I know other than being on writers groups.

Writers groups are another way to promote yourself for free. I see authors doing it everyday and no one minds if they play by the rules.

Hope this blog helps,
Happy writing,
Dawn Chartier
www.dawnchartier.com
Fantasy on the Rocks!!!

POV Point of View

POV ~ I never knew what it was until a few years ago when I joined a critique group. "POINT OF VIEW"...Well, I shifted my POV in one scene, which is also called headhopping....

I was told I headhopped. Huh? What was that I asked? Then someone was nice enough to tell me that I shifted from one character to another without any real reason other than to do it. They said I was confusing the reader and that editors don't like it. Well, I guess I need to figure out how not to headhop. So, I printed out a scene and highlighted with a marker every time I shifted my Point of View. Then I went back and took out the person that I really didn't need to be in their mind and used the one that gained the most from the scene.

I still kept the dialog of course, but just stayed in my hero/or heroine's mind through out that one scene, sometimes more.

Makes since? Not as easy as it sounds. But, I've trained myself not to do it anymore. Thank goodness for dialog, it helps! Just stick with one POV for each scene and you'll be better for it, unless your Nora Roberts, Sherriyln Kenyon and a few others that can do it without you even realizing. If you are new, I'd suggest don't headhop.


That's just a little thing I learned the hard way. I'll share others later.

Good day,
Dawn Chartier
Fantasy on the Rocks!

Dejavu

Anyone seen the movie "DEJAVU"? Well, I watched it tonight and I have to say it really intrigued me. I enjoyed it. A was so proud of the directors not making New Orleanian's sound like idiots as the movie industry usually does. We don't talk stupid like you saw in the movie many years ago called "The Big Easy"... We really don't... Denzel Washington did a wonderful acting job. So did the girl who was murdered. Not sure who she is, but she did great. Val Kilmer had a tiny role in this one, I was surprised about that. I'd like to have seen more of him.

Now what touched me about this movie were the scenes where they showed the houses moved from there foundations from Hurricane Katrina. It hit a nerve, a raw one that I thought healed. It hurt. My husband is in construction and said that area still looked that way. That hurt even more.

But I do want to say thanks to the producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Tony Scott for reminding me, it hasn't gone away. I just bury myself from that area and try to forget when I shouldn't. Katrina gave me the courage to do what I've always wanted to do in life. To be free with my imagination and write stories. (only good thing from her)

I recommend Dejavu to anyone who likes para-normal, sci-fi, mystery, murder, and very light touch of romance.

Thanks for letting me share my review.
Dawn C

Character Profiles

I've been thinking a lot about character profiles.
I was on this group who gave me a character profile chart to fill out for all my characters and I was stunned at all the questions it asked. It was very overwhelming.

I had no clue all this stuff was important to know.... then it dawned on me... It wasn't really all that important. Especially if it wasn't the Hero or Heroine. Of course it's good to know the basics, and a few tidbits, but really do you know everything up front? No, I think the characters reveal themselves a little at a time. At least mine do. I get to know them as I'm writing. Sure I can pick out their hair color, body features, favorite colors, but to truly know them is to put them in situations and watch them squirm, thats how I figure out what "type" my characters are.

Now this is just my thoughts on the subject, everyone has their own style, this is just what I'm learning as I go along. And, I haven't been writing very long, less than two years. But I pay close attention to what works for me and you should do the same... Don't force yourself to know your characters before the story has taken place or you'll have them do what you want, and not what they want. Understand?? Now if only I can grasp grammar (comma's) I'd feel much better.

Happy writing ya'll,
Dawn
Weather in New Orleans today: Got 8 inches of rain...(I'll post pics of my flooded yard on monday)
Fantasy on the Rocks!

To blog or not to blog from a writers view

That is the question. Well, I'm gonna blog and try it out. Why not!

Well, this is my first blog and I'm just experimenting with it today.
I'm a writer of para-normal fantasies usually with romance or romantic elements weaved through out. I like writing a story with action. Sometimes I forget that I'm really putting my characters out there like that. (sorry guys/gals) But, I enjoy the action paced story just as much as the next human. I also like to keep secrets and clues in my stories. Gotta have mystery!!!

I'm also a big fan of "horror", I love to be scared from a great book or movie. The tasteful ones that is. (Stephen King, Debra LeBlanc, Joe Hill to name a few) And the old original movies that made you have nightmares for years. You know which one's they are.

Well, enough about that. I just finished re-writing my last chapter and finally wrote THE END. God, did it feel great. My story is now going into the hands of a woman who will hopefully catch all my grammar mistakes and any open graves that I might have forgotten to fill. I hope she makes it shine like a star. I'm so eager to get this submission to a great lady named Kate Duffy. Kate if you see this by a miracle chance, I'm still sending your request as promised. Just a little better than it would have been if I sent it a month ago. That's what happens when you sit and listen to editors and agents tell you what they like and don't like at conferences. You get a better story. You learn.

Well, it's getting late and my brain is turning mushy. New Orleans is about to get hit with some nasty weather so I better turn off the computer. I'll be back soon.

Have a great Thursday.
Night ya'll.
Dawn
Fantasy on the Rocks!