My Light Magazine

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I hope the holidays have been good to all of you. Are you ready for 2009?

A new year often brings changes. Things are no different here at My Light Magazine. It has been brought to our attention that the Magazine is not very user-friendly at times. In the last two months, we have had several problems, including access to the website, problems with the PDF and the archive section.

I want you all to know that we at My Light Magazine take these issues seriously, as we want nothing less than top quality service to our readers.

This is where the changes are coming in. We are working on a whole section of archives, but it is slow moving. November and December should be up when the January issue comes out.

We believe we have resolved the PDF problem and there should be no more issues with that. Of course, a main goal we have is to figure out why the website is difficult to access. I have several theories, but we need to take a closer look at it and maybe have another pair of eyes looking at it.

As always, thank you for your support. If there are any other issues that you notice, feel free to send me an e-mail at editor@mylightmagazine.com or to my assistant Editor, Jaclyn Morales at Jaclynmorales@mylightmagazine.com .

A Star in the Night: Coming Soon!

My first picture book, A Star in the Night, is now listed as "coming soon" on Guardian Angel Publishing's website. Click here to see it. It is the last book in the selection. It isn't up for sale yet, but I promise I will let you know when it is available. Illustrator John Blackford is doing a tremendous job with the pictures.

Submissions for My LIght Magazine

ATTENTION AUTHORS AND ILLUSTRATORS!!

We are in need of stories and articles for January asap. The earlier the better so I can give our illustrators time to work on the project.

Also- illustrators - if you have time or are willing to work on a short deadline this month e-mail me asap and let me know what you prefer to do: story, article, poetry, designs to perk up stories, etc.

In addition - we are now accepting submissions in every category for our February, March APril and May issues. The categories include: stories, articles, poems, puzzles, arts and crafts, recipes, profiles on saints (which will be up year-round)

PLEASE BE SURE TO SEND ALL SUBS IN AN ATTACHMENT,with category and age group in the subject line ( this helps us with our organizing). Send subs to our assistant editor:

jaclyn morales
jaclynmorales@mylightmagazine.com

Any further questions contact Jaclyn or

Jennifer
editor@mylightmagazine.com

Or feel free to post a question in the My Light Group if you think others will benefit. www.groups.yahoo.com/group/mylight

As always, thanks for your help!

Jennifer Gladen
Editor,
My Light Magazine
http://mylightmagazine.com

Green Books for Christmas!

THRIFTY BOOK BUYS: e-BOOKS are GREEN - They Save Trees!

The word is out. . . Children's e-Books, on CD or Download,

Are the Bargain of the Year!

Cheaper than paper, they are the epitome of "GREEN."

These are QUALITY BOOKS - fun, inspirational and educational.

<><><><><><><><><><><>

BUY a "green" CD and save a tree.

Do your bit to save the planet!

<><><><><><><><><><><>

Kids Are Computer Savvy!

ADD to a LAPTOP or PC

and

Books on CD can distract kids before a doctor or dentist appointment, on rainy Sundays, holidays. . . , or in the back seat on long car trips.


<><><><><><><><><><><><><>

Coming soon:

Jennifer Gladen’s first Children's Book:

A Star in the Night

Michael makes his way home from shopping one Christmas Eve
Night. What starts out as an ordinary winter night turns into something much more on his journey home. He is faced with three experiences that will change his life, all the while it seems he is being followed by a peculiar star.

Visit

Guardian Angel Publishing

Find a wide range of wonderful children's books,

by authors who care about children.

On Download, CD, and . . . . . Hard Copy!

Of Atlantis: Part Two of the Prologue

Okay. As promised here is the second part of the prologue from Lanaia Lee's Of Atlantis. Enjoy the ride! I found it tons of fun.

**************************************************************************


Archimedes mother gave him a puppy and hoped this would provide much needed companionship for her very lonely son. Archimedes was very careful of how he played with the
dog because of his extraordinary powers. One day while playing, the dog jumped up on the child
and scared him. He was still too young to control his powers, so he pushed the dog aside when
right before the boy’s eyes, the dog just disappeared.

The child had not meant to hurt his only friend, the puppy he so loved, but Archimedes
still did not know how to control his very special gift. The child honestly believed it to be some
sort of demonic curse which saddened and frightened him.

Archimedes loved all kinds of animals, even insects. He saw them as his only friends. He
walked over to his mother’s roses and listened to the birds as they sang. The bees buzzed from
the rose bushes, going about their business and their most important work.

One bee found its way to Archimedes and stung him, hurting the child. Archimedes did
not know that after a bee stings someone it dies. So, the small child said, “Where are you? You
hurt me. If I find you, I will kill you.”

His nanny standing close overheard this and admonished him, “Archimedes, you should
be ashamed. A child of your age shouldn’t say such things!” His nanny kept a safe distance from
the boy because she, just like every one else, feared the young child’s capabilities. His nurse
continued, “You should come inside now. It is almost time for your nap!”

Archimedes replied stubbornly, “I don’t want to go inside. I want to play some more!”

But his nanny was very persistent and kept fussing at the child.
Archimedes’ frustratration boiled within his very being. He wanted to hurt her, but he
knew this is wrong, so he took a deep breath and went inside with his nanny. He followed his nanny to his bedroom, where she cautiously tucked him in his bed for a nap. Archimedes watched his nanny until he saw that she was gone. Then he jumped out of bed, and very quietly made his way to his mother’s chambers. When he arrived there, he slowly opened the door and peeked inside.

His mother, Queen Cheris, pulled a brush through her hair when she spied her small son.
She smiled at him and with open arms she cried out, “Archimedes, come to me.” The child ran
and they embraced. Archimedes really loved his mother as a true friend and protector. He never
sensed fear from his mother.

As Cheris held her son, she noticed the child felt warm. She mentioned this to Archimedes and then poured her son a cool glass of water, which he greedily drank. Cheris then said, “I know you didn’t have lessons today as your teacher took ill. What did you do all day?”

Archimedes answered, “I played in the gardens all day by myself. Mother, can I have
another puppy to play with? I promise to be careful so I don’t hurt this one. I just want someone
to play with. I hear the others playing outside the wall and I feel so bad. I have no one to play
with. Everybody is afraid of me.”

Cheris looked down as she answered her son, “Let’s see what we can do about getting
you another puppy. I know you are lonesome my son, but when you are older, I promise you will
understand everything.”
**********************************************************************

There you have it! Stay tuned for part three tomorrow!

All About Lanaia Lee

Before I post part two of Lanaia's prologue, I have an interview to share with you. Lanaia stopped by the blog and answered some questions I had for her. I wanted to know more about this fascinating author, and I'm sure you do, too. I will post later today part 2 of the prologue. Below are some interesting Lanaia facts:

Do you have any pets?

Oh yes, I have a three month old cocker spaniel, named D. J., named for my husband, David. D. J. stands for David Junior. I recently had a seven year old Jack Russell Terrier named Jack, by my Japanese step-mother, Jack was diabetic and died May 19th, so my husband got me D. J. for my anniversary.

What is going on with your writing these days?

I am working on the final book of my fantasy series Of Atlantis, then I have 4 more novels planned with my publisher, A, G. Press, as well as a poetry book ever so often. I signed a life time contract with them

What are your future goals for your writing?

I want to see Of Atlantis go to the big screen. Almost every one knows Atlantis, but my books are unique, as the story idea, has never been done before.

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

I want to be synonymous with Of Atlantis, like George Lucas is with Star Wars or Gene Roddenbury is with Star Trek


Where can we find out more about you?
http://lanaiaslair.com (sign my guest book)

http://lanaialee.wordpress.com

www.myspace.com/lanaialee -

Is there a place where readers can reach you?

I am pretty much always on line writing, promoting, etc. e-mail me at lanaia74@yahoo.com


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

I would like everyone to know, I am just a person like everyone else, even though I travel on wheels instead of legs. I am a very strong woman that has survived a lot. Give my writing a chance, read it and just like everyone that reads it, they say they are hooked. I hope my books, and the story of my life, there will be something for everyone. And thank you for taking the time to talk with me. I hope I gave you some in sight into Lanaia Lee and Of Atlantis.

A Sneak Peek of OF ATLANTIS

I have a treat for you all today. Lanaia Lee, author of Of Atlantis shared the prologue of her book with me. I was so enthralled with the story that I wanted to share it with you. I found it intriguing since I connected with the main character right away. When you're finished reading part one of the prologue, feel free to leave a comment and share what you think.

***********************

Archimedes, heir to the throne of Atlantis, played alone in the courtyard of his home, the palace. His father, the King, always seemed to be gone fightin bloody battles with his enemies.

On this day, Archimedes’ father, King Lionus, left for another battle, and the young child worried if his father, whom he so loved, would return to him or fall in battle like so many others did when they clashed with enemies.

Across the courtyard, near his mother’s beloved roses, he saw his nanny in deep conversation with two members of the palace guard appointed as the child’s bodyguards.

Archimedes could always tell his body guards felt very uncomfortable around him, because he was no ordinary child. At only four, he could feel their discomfort in his presence.

The last time King Lionus had gone into battle, he had come to say goodbye to his son, totally dressed in his full battle regalia. At that time, Archimedes while playing in the courtyard he saw his father and ran straight to him with open arms. When he got there, his father pulled away. Lionus told the poor child, “Keep your distance! Be a man like me and say goodbye the way I would. That is the way I taught you, so that is what I expect!”

Archimedes tried his best to hide his tears from his father, because his father would think him weak. The child knew even his own father feared him because he was different but helpless against it.

King Lionus said, “I came to say goodbye because I will be gone this time for a couple of months. You are a prince and I expect you to conduct yourself in this way during my absence. It is very important that you act like a man, especially for the sake of your mother. She worries enough, and I don’t want you to give her any more reason to do so.”

Archimedes looked at his father after secretly wiping the tears from his eyes and then said, “I totally understand what you ask of me sir. But I do wonder will you return? I just don’t want you to die. I just love you so, Father.”

King Lionus bent down on one knee to face his son, “Archimedes, you don’t have to worry. Don’t I always return? I am Atlantis, and killing me is no easy task. You know I have been wounded several times, but I have always returned. It is my destiny to rule this country, so I shall return. I know my subjects and you and your mother need me, so I always return. Just be a man for your mother and let Lord Uric help you with your studies. It is important to me that you behave and be a good boy.”

Archimedes answered his father, “I will do my very best to be a man for mother sir, but I will miss you father. I love you father!”

For a moment the child softened the heart of the King, and the King started to reach out for his son. But then the fear of his son took over so King Lionus, said, “Goodbye son,” then he turned and walked away.
Archimedes watched his father walk away from him, until he could no longer see him.

On the other side of the wall around the perimeter of the courtyard, Archimedes could hear the laughter of other children as they played. The child started to think about what the other children might be playing such as hide and seek, or maybe even tag.

Their laughter made Archimedes sad, because the other children always shied away from him fearing his strange abilities. This made Archimedes a lonely child. As he listened to the other children it made him wish he didn’t have powers. His powers made him feel like he was not as good as the others. The poor child longed just to be normal.
************************************

That's all for today. Come back tomorrow for part two. Thanks for sharing your prologue with us Lanaia!

Meet Lanaia Lee

Meet Lanaia Lee, author of Of Atlantis. Not only has she beaten the odds in getting a book published, but she's beaten the odds and survived a stroke at age 35. Though this left her in a wheelchair, she persevered instead of letting this defeat her. "I still rock and roll, and I mean literally roll!"

None of this has affected her creativity. Check out the synopsis of her book Of Atlantis.

"Of Atlantis is an epic, fantasy novel based on the king of Atlantis known as
Archimedes. For some strange reason Archimedes is blessed with a source of
untapped power. His mother, Cheris, knows the truth, but his father, King
Linus does not, making him very fearful of the young prince, his only son. In
this first book, we follow Archimedes from his childhood, until he is crowned
king, marries and has children of his own.
His mother, Cheris, endures a loveless marriage out of a sense of duty to her
subjects and to her only son, Archimedes, who she values more than life itself.
The continent of Atlantis is comprised of multiple countries with five other
kings. Political turmoil is rampant and war is always a threat to mankind.
Before that devastating day when the ocean swallowed the entire continent,
they share the joy and strife of life in Atlantis. However, one trusted advisor to
the king proves to be a formidable archenemy. He knows and covets the
awesome powers of Archimedes - his name is Uric.
After the devastation, which Uric and Archimedes survive because of the
special powers they both possess, including their gift of eternal life, Uric
pursues Archimedes throughout history attempting to steal his power, growing
progressively stronger with time.
But Archimedes was proud, he was regal, he was Of Atlantis."

Don't miss out on her talent. Her second book, Skulls of Salvation, will be out in Mid Feb 2009. It is a tale about the search for the Crystal Skulls of Belize and the effort to prevent the destruction of earth as predicted in the Mayan Doomsday Prophecy.

A Special Anniversary!

I usually don't like to post personal information, but I can't help it this time. This is a wonderful anniversary for my middle child. Jackie was born with a rare liver disease. At age 10 months and then at age 3 she had a liver transplant. Today is the 3rd anniversary of her second and successful transplant. To read about her story visit www.caringbridge.org/page/jacqueline . The journals are more about her battle with the disease and tapered off as she got well. Today, we also remember her donor and the brave decision the family made to save a life.

Muse Conference -- Get Ready

I've been checking the boards at the Muse 200 Online Writer's Conference, and I'm thrilled I signed up again. It looks to be great fun and I can't wait to get busy on the assignments. I know I overloaded myself. I can tell just by trying to get my intros done. However, I feel like a sponge. I just want to absorb everything I can about writing.

Some tips to make this year a great conference year:

• Keep a notebook handy. Jot down assignments, due dates,exercises.
• Save useful handouts for future reference. I created a binder and organized them by topic. When that moment comes when I say, "What did she tell me at the conference about creating a website?" I can just return to my binder and look it up.
• Get talking - make friends and connect with other writers. Make use of the fun boards where you're introducing each other and exchanging links.
• Ask questions and participate. You'll never be the only "newbie" there. I used to tell my second graders all the time, "There are no stupid questions." If you have a question, chances are someone else does too.
• Do the assignments. That sounds obvious, but you'll learn more by following through on what you're asked to do. It's more work, but you could get great personal advice from some experienced presenters there.

That's it! Enjoy yourselves and keep on learning!

My Light Magazine: October 2008

Check out the newest issue of My Light Magazine at http://mylightmagazine.com/ . The October 2008 issue is packed with information about St. Francis of Assisi. There’s a puzzle about him, an article, a story and even some Paper Dolls by Candace J. Hardy. Diane Smit did a great job on her retelling of the Bible story: Jesus Blesses Children.
There’s so much fun packed in this issue. So go ahead over and take a look! Don’t forget to stop at the comments page to tell us about your visit.
Contributors:
Be sure to check out our Current Needs page. I have specific ideas listed on what I’d like to see in November, December, January and February.
Enjoy the issue!

My Light Names Assistant Editor

Below I posted a new Media Release about My Light Magazine. We're thrilled to announce a new addition to the My Light team. Take a look and meet My Light's new assistant editor.




MEDIA RELEASE

Media Contact: Jennifer Gladen
Editor, MY LIGHT MAGAZINE
Email: editor@mylightmagazine.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pennsylvania (September 29, 2008) –My Light Magazine announces a new member of the My Light Team. Jaclyn Morales has been named assistant editor and will assist with submissions and planning of the magazine. She is a current student at the Institute of Children’s Literature and holds a BS in Journalism from St. John’s University. “When I was a kid I used to make imaginary newspapers,” Ms. Morales states. “I used to hand write, draw, and circulate it around my house. So it wasn’t a shock that I went for a BS in Journalism.”
Ms. Morales is excited to join us here at My Light Magazine. “The thing I love the best is that I get to merge many passions into My Light – my faith (I have attended catholic school from grade school through college) and writing for children. I get to teach children to love to read and love God as well.”
My Light Magazine looks forward to working with Jaclyn Morales. Author submissions should be sent to her at JaclynMorales@mylightmagazine.com . For content suggestions, please visit http://mylightmagazine.com .

Media Contact:
Jennifer Gladen: editor@mylightmagazine.com
Jaclyn Morales: JaclynMorales@mylightmagazine.com
Website: http://mylightmagazine.com
###

Thanks for the Supoprt

Thanks for all the support and comments on A Star in the Night. I'm honored to have an illustrator with the same vision about this book that I do. We can't wait until it is available for purchase.

Be sure to check out other titles at Guardian Angel Publishing as well at http://guardianangelpublishing.com . They have a great selection of talented authors and illustrators. There's even a section which tells you of the upcoming new releases.

A Cover for A Star in the Night

It's here! The cover art for A Star in the Night!. I couldn't tell you enough about illustrator John Blackford's talent. That's why I'm about to show you.

It's as if he read my mind when I was writing the book. Thanks for a great job, John. I can't wait to see the rest of the book.



Here it is.....

Drum roll...

Ta Da....

A Star in the Night Has an Illustrator!!

I'm thrilled to announce the illustrator of A Star in the Night, a picture book that follows a young boy through a mystical Christmas Eve. The joyful story will be illustrated by John Blackford, a talented illustrator who always seems to keep busy with one project or another. Take a look at his blog and check out some of his work. Don't just look at the pictures - he has links, trailers, comics, you name it.

I'm ecstatic to have such a talented illustrator work on A Star in the Night. Stay tuned, as I'm sure there will be more to update soon.

The excitement is brewing for all the Musers!

If you've been looking for professional writing tips, I'm sure you're one of the many authors that signed up for the Muse Online Writer's Conference. Once again I signed up for many, many workshops.

One would think my eyes are bigger than my brain if they saw the list I signed up for. The truth is, all these workshops are invaluable. Some of the info you pick up there are things you'd learn in a paid writing class. (And the perks! Don't forget about the perks!) Just about every workshop offers some type of benefit, whether it be a deeper knowledge of the industry or drawings for free stuff. You just never know what you're walking in to. Hope to see you there.

MORE HINTS!!

Hey Everyone - here's an update from Stories for Children Magazine. They have two more clues!
Boy is my curiosity piqued!

********
"DON'T FORGET! DON'T FORGET! DON'T FORGET!BEFORE YOU PACK YOUR BAGS FOR THAT LONG LABOR DAY WEEKEND...Please make a note to yourself to click on over to Stories for Children Magazine to discover the identity of September's MYSTERY FEATURED GUEST! You'll be so glad you didn't forget!

On September 1st, click on:http://storiesforchildrenmagazine.org

TWO MORE HINTS REGARDING SFC's MYSTERY FEATURED GUEST:

1) This person "saved" something that had been lost for thousands of years!

2) This person's knowledge and accomplishments will knock your socks off!"

*****
Anybody have any ideas??

New Clues in the SFC Mystery!

Okay, so I opened my e-mail this morning to find two more clues to the SFC Magazine's mystery. In case you missed it here it goes:

"Find out WHO the BEST-KEPT SECRET FEATURED GUEST is at Stories for Children Magazine on September 1st: http://storiesforchildrenmagazine.org/

TWO MORE HINTS ABOUT SFC'S FEATURED GUEST:

1) THIS PERSON COMMANDED MANY PLANES TO LAND AND TAKE OFF.

2) THIS PERSON HAS MUCH TO TEACH CHILDREN AND ADULTS ALIKE.

More hints to follow in a few days...:-)"


I have to admit - they've got me!. I guess I'll have to wait a week and see who it is. Good luck everyone!

Author/Illustrator Kevin Scott Collier Now Has a TV Show!

Does all our hard work and efforts pay off in this field of writing and illustrating? If you ask Kevin Scott Collier, I'm betting he'd say a big, "YES!" Many know Kevin Collier as a wonderful illustrator of children's books. Pretty soon, he'll be known for a great TV show that will help teach kids to draw. Check out this link to learn more about it. Congrats to Kevin and his family!

Follow the Clues at SFC!!

A little bird visited my inbox this morning and gave me some exciting news. There's a mystery going on at Stories for Children Magazine! It's not your typical mystery. It's more like a challenge - a challenge to see if you can figure out who their next guest will be.

Here's the info revealed to me:

"MARK YOUR CALENDARS ... For a September First visit to Stories for Children Magazine and check out what the BUZZ is all about regarding September's FEATURED GUEST - go to: http://storiesforchildrenmagazine.org First HINT About SFC's MYSTERY FEATURED GUEST FOR SEPT: This person co-authored a Children's Fiction Story based on a true story for our September issue. More clues to follow in a few days. :-)"

I wonder who it could be... More clues, SFC! More clues!

Catch the Muse...

I stopped by Donna McDine's blog to leave a comment and I'm glad I did. Her recent post reminded me that the deadline is fast approaching for anyone wanting to attend the 2008 Muse Online Conference.

I've already registered, but I don't want you to miss out! If you plan on attending the free online Muse conference, you MUST register BEFORE September 1, 2008.

Lea Schizas was very clear in her announcement regarding registration: "In the past I've been lenient and accepted late registrations. This year the deadline will be kept..."

So if you're planning to attend, get to the website ASAP and register before September 1st!

See ya there.

The Brilliante Weblog Premio Award

I was thrilled to find my blog was nominated as one of Beverly Stow McClure's choices for the Brilliante Weblog Premio Award. Beverly has a fascinating blog as well, complete with updates about her career and helpful book reviews.

Thanks Beverly for thinking about my blog!

As a nominee, I must also choose some interesting blogs to nominate for the award. Here's who I've chosen:

Margot Finke : http://margotfinke.blogspot.com/

Shari Lylle-Soffe: http://www.sharilyle-soffe.com/

Cynthia Reeg: http://www.cynthiareeg.com/blog/index.html

Diane Smit: http://dianesmit.blogspot.com/

Rules for next recipients of the Brillante Weblog Premio are as follows:
1. The award may be displayed on a winner's blog.
2. Add a link to the person you received the award from.
3. Nominate up to seven other blogs.
4. Add their links to your blog.
5. Add a message to each person that you have passed the award on in the comments section of their blog.

Have Fun!

A Star in the Night --update

My picture book, A Star in the Night, is about to have an illustrator. It will be thrilling to see the book in it's finished state! The publisher, Guardian Angel Publishing, has been a great help in making this book a reality.

A Star in the Night is story where we follow a boy home from the mall on Christmas Eve. But this walk is no ordinary walk home. And this Christmas Eve is no ordinary Christmas Eve. When the book is published, don't forget to swing by www.guardianangelpublishing.com to pick up your copy! While you're there - look around. There's something for everyone at this site.

Welcome My Light Magazine

My Light magazine is here! With all the hard work from our authors and illustrators, our debut issue was a success. Please continue to keep us in your prayers.

This month we've highlighted stories and crafts involving the Rosary, school spirit,and understanding God's ways. If you haven't checked it out yet, go on and stop on by.

Thanks again to all our contributors and supporters! God Bless you!

Interview with Lacresha Hayes!

I stopped by Lacresha's blog for an interview. we chatted about writing and about my new magazine, My Light Magazine. It is a Catholic centered magazine for children designed to help deepen their relationship with God.


Check out the interview at: http://paradiseforwriters.blogspot.com/

Lacresha was very nice and provided some fun questions.

Back From Florida

We're back from our vacation and I'm refreshed! I ran into many writing opportunities while down there. Though the one I made the most use of was when we were in Sea World. My family and I just sat down and waited for the Shamu show to start. There were people filling the stadium. Parents bringing treats and drinks for their kids. Salesmen offering over-priced cotton candy. And of course the whale circling the tank.

Soon the show started. The theme was about sticking with your dreams. With the inspiring words running through the microphone, magical music pumping in the background, and my imagination running wild, a story was born.

I dug out my journal and pen and wrote furiously. I missed almost the whole show, but I've walked away with something better-- the premise of my next work.

Even while on vacation, a writer is never fully on vacation. For if we were, we'd miss out on our best opportunities.

Road Trip

My family and I've begun our road trip. We left PA and drove all the way to Florida for a trip to Disney World. Along with all the necessities, I made sure to pack my writing things: notepad, pen, organization binder for my magazine, and some writing reference books. I figured I might get some things done while on the road.



So far, not much has been accomplished. I couldn't concentrate in the car, and couldn't use the laptop on the road anyway. So, I relaxed and took in the scenery. It wasn't until we arrived in Florida that I realized I should be taking notes in that notepad that's buried under everything else in the car.



We've driven through the Delaware, Maryland, the Carolina's, Georgia and now Florida. This is the perfect place to take notes on settings. The colors, the land, the people, the accents - how much more real can you get than that? Though I thought of this too late on the way down, I'll be sure to keep that pad and pen handy for the road back. (And throughout our stay in Florida. Why not?) I never know when I may need these notes for a story, book, or article. And it'll save a trip.

WHY I LOVE THE WRITING INDUSTRY

"It's competitive out there," many people have said in giving advice about writing. "It's hard work."

While these statements are true, I still love writing. They're part of the reasons why I love writing. It's challenging! I love collecting writer reference books. Just ask my best friend who can't pry me out of the bookstore.

Most of all, however, I love that while it's competitive, authors are supportive of each other. I'm sure you've seen it. Those of us who have a mile-high pile of rejection letters are the first to cheer when one of us gets an acceptance.

The most recent act of support I've received was by none other than Stories for Children Magazine. V.S. Grenier, Gayle Jacobson-Huest and the rest of the SFC team, have been wonderful cheerleaders of My Light Magazine. They've helped me spread the word, pointed contributors our way and even included news about us in their Good News File.

It's that type of support which makes the writing industry so special. So thanks for your support Stories for Children.

BUSY AS A BEE

The weather is warming up out here. I almost convinced my husband to get the air conditioners started this week. And with warm weather comes those pesky bees. The bees that send my 6 and 7 year old girls shrieking and running for cover.

Just as the bees are out and buzzing around in the new warm weather, I've been just as busy with writing. I've been zipping around between touching up my book projects, attempting to keep up with my blogs and critique groups, and mostly I've been organizing my Catholic magazine, My Light. Though school has yet to be let out, it still seems as if August first ( the publication of the debut issue) is fast approaching.

I don't mind the craziness though. I love every part of it. Just as long as nobody comes at me with a fly swatter!

I HAVE A NEW BLOG

I have a new blog. This time it's my very own magazine that is the center of attention. Since I recently started My Light, the Catholic E-zine for kids, it only made sense to me to start a blog about it. Authors and illustrators of the magazine as well as potential authors and illustrators will learn all about My Light and what's going on over there. Swing by and take a look at it.

My Light Magazine

Calling all writers and illustrators! I am in the process of putting together a new online magazine for children. My Light Magazine is an e-zine designed to help children grow in their Christian Faith ( specifically the Catholic faith). We are now accepting submissions for fictional stories, articles, Bible stories, crafts and poems.

We are a non paying market at this time, however we will have a monthly contributor's page where we will list your bio and a link to your websites. Thank you to everyone for your generous support.

Also, to stay up to date on the latest happenings at My Light, join our yahoo group at: www.groups.yahoo.com/group/mylight

GETTING THE WHEELS SPINNING

Vacation time is over. My daughter received her First Holy Communion this Saturday and I spent all week before hand preparing the house for the party. Thanks to the team work from my mom, sister and husband, everything was ready for the big day. My husband is a Pastry Chef - so of course he did all the cooking.

And now it's back to work. It's amazing how many cobwebs build up in a writer's mind if they haven't written anything in a week (it looks like there's a little more dusting for me to do.,.)
So, I decided to start my day off catching up on my blogs. That will get the wheels spinning again. Before I know it I will be back in the routine of things again.

A WORLD WITHOUT STARS

Where did all the stars go? That’s what Jennifer Barlow wondered one night. Even while looking through the telescope, she had a tough time seeing the night stars.
Her problem had been light pollution, or the extra unnecessary light we use at night. “Light pollution is essentially a blanket of light in the sky,” says Jennifer. “It comes from the excess light from our light bulbs, which is sent off into the atmosphere.”

Because of this, the stars are dimmer and harder to see.
The sky is lighting up at an alarming rate. City lights are one of the biggest culprits. “As we build more and more cities and therefore use more and more lights, we are slowly starting to lose sight of the stars,” Jennifer adds. Besides city lights, light pollution comes from other sources such as lights from houses, businesses, and cars are just a few. Can you think of some other things that are lighting up our skies?


Could all this light really wash out our view of the stars? Yes. The effect of extra light at night is similar to what happens in the daytime. The sun is “out”, lighting up the sky. We can’t see the stars because it’s too bright, but the stars are still there. Similarly, experts feel that soon the night sky will be too bright to see any stars.


Why Should We Worry?

There’s many reasons why the effects of light pollution is important to us. It’s already tough for astronomers to see faint stars – even with a telescope. They sometimes have to use covers to filter out the light so they can continue studying the stars.


When an astronaut goes into outer space, he can see a clear outline of the United States because of all the lights we use.


Effects on nature and the problem of wasting energy are other concerns related to light pollution. “Not to mention that people need to be exposed to a certain amount of darkness each day,” Jennifer adds.

It is for these reasons that Jennifer Barlow decided to do something about it. She organized National Dark Skies Week (NDSW) to help raise awareness and to improve the quality of the night sky. During this special week, scheduled for March 29, 2008 through April 4, 2008, people will work together for a darker sky by turning off any unnecessary lights. NDSW occurs during April’s new moon so even a full moon’s glow will not interfere with the beauty of the stars in the sky.


Although you may look up at the sky now and are still able to see the magnificent stars, there will come a day when only astronauts in outer space can see them if we don’t change our habits. Thanks to the efforts of Jennifer Barlow and other experts, we can stop this from happening. Then, we can all look up at the sky and not worry about living in a world without stars.


Tips from Jennifer Barlow for a great National Dark Skies Week:

1. Participate in National Dark Sky Week. Get as many people to join you as possible. The more people who participate the darker the sky will be.


2. Spread the word by handing out flyers (people can email me if they would like me to send them a flyer), contacting newspapers, news stations, and radio stations.

3. Turn out the lights! If many people participate, perhaps this will encourage more people to participate.

4. Write letters to local politicians. Ask them to pass laws to control the kind of lights used in the area.

5. Take an active role in the elimination of light pollution. One person can certainly make a difference.

For more information, visit the National Dark Skies Week website.

Be sure to visit Stories for Children's website for the April 2008 issue. I talked to Stanley Bookman, and he has some tips to share.

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A LINK WORTH SEEING

I want to share an important link with you. It's to Bonnie Kaye's blog. Bonnie Kaye is an author and a leader. She was scammed by a "publishing" company, but isn't taking it lying down. Check out this link:http://airleafvictims.blogspot.com/
and see what she and her fellow authors have been through. Occasionally on her blog, she posts writing tips. If you look under the March 15th heading, you'll see some tips I wrote on the importance of networking, called "Network Brulee." If you get a chance, stop by and see it.

A Week for the Stars

Every year there's a special week dedicated just to our sky. It's called National Dark Sky Week and this year it's scheduled for March 29, 2008 through April 4, 2008. It's a week where we all try to limit the extra light we send through our night sky (from excess city lights, porch lights, etc.) The result? You'll see a much darker sky--and a better view of the stars. What do I mean? Is it really that important? To find out, my article "A World Without Stars," will be posted here next week.

Joining the Party!

I'll be joining many other authors at The Writing Jungle's BLOGFEST, held March 31 through April 5, 2008. Go on over there and check out all the fun. There will be guest authors, door prizes from some authors, and "tons of fun." See ya there!

Come Check this out

Author Joyce Anthony interviewed me on her blog. She asked some great questions! It made for a pretty interesting article. Look for me under the date of March 8th. Check out some of the interviews with the other authors, too. I bet you'll read something you didn't know about each one!

Click here to see my interview:
http://joyceanthony.tripod.com/blog/

MEET AUTHOR ROSEMARIE GILLEN

Another visitor stopped by today. Her name is Rosemarie Gillen. She's a children's author and has a great picture book out called Sometimes I Am. Click on the link to learn more about it.

Jen: Welcome Rosemarie. It's always great to chat with a fellow author. How long have you been writing and illustrating?

Rosemarie: I have been writing for children about 1 year and illustrating for children about 2 years.


Jen: Do you have a favorite - writing or illustrating?

Rosemarie: That is hard to say. I like them both. But I guess I will always lean more towards painting/illustrating if I had to chose one. There is just something about bringing your story to life through its illustrations.

Jen: I've heard a rumor that you have a book out. Can you tell us a little about that?

Rosemarie: My first children's picture book, Sometimes I Am, is available now at www.synergebooks.com. Sometimes I am is universal in that every child goes through a number of emotions throughout the course of their day. Each day has its little ups and downs. This book helps young children to understand that such feelings are normal, fleeting and necessary.


Jen: Are there any other book projects you're working on now?

Rosemarie: My current project is a picture book, Anything Is Possible, that takes you on an extra extraordinary adventure and reassures a child that anything is possible when we try.


Jen: Where can we go to find out more about your work?

Rosemarie: I have a web site: Rosemarie Gillen

Thank you Rosemarie. We can't wait to see more of your work!

Author Cindy Reeg's Phenomenal Blog

I made a recent discovery: Cindy Reeg's blog. The minute her page loads on your browser, you see colors galore. It has an immediate "kid appeal", which always grabs my attention. Her blog highlights news of fellow authors, such as today's post featuring Margot Finke.

I planned on just focussing on Cynthia's blog, but realized that wouldn't do her justice. I found myself browsing her entire site for quite some time. Her creativity shines right down to her "About Me" page, which is in interview format.

There's a little something for everybody. On her "Teachers and Parents" page she has information about her creative school visits. There's even tips for us writers on how to conduct a fun school visit.

No matter which page you visit, you'll likely run into something fun. The "Kids" page is just that: FUN. There's links, crafts, recipes and even suggested readings.

My personal favorite was her "Travel and Family" page. There's exciting photographs of her worldly travels. Viewing her picture of Italy may be the closest I get to that country for a while. The picture I loved the most, however, was of her two cats napping on the photocopier. Nothing could capture a cat's peronality better than that.

Hey, don't take my word for it. Go visit Cynthia's Blog and website at http://www.cynthiareeg.com/blog/index.html to see for yourself. If you love it as much as I do, don't forget to visit her contact page and tell her about it.

Shari Lyle--Soffe

Hey! Look who stopped by my blog tonight. It's children's author Shari Lyle-Soffe! She's the author of the Rooter and Snuffle series, published by Guardian Angel Publishing.
Her wonderful story-telling mixed with illustrator Kevin Scott Collier's illustrations is a recipe for a brillaint book.
Welcome, Shari!


Jen: How long have you been writing for children? What made you get started?

Shari: I have been writing for children for almost ten years. I was a professional crafter and I wanted to do something less messy. LOL. I was looking for another way to earn money from my home. Big mistake! Nobody warned me that children's writers don't make a lot of money. My love of children's books and stories, and fond memories of being read to as a child kept me going. I love to write.

Jen: Is there one particular book, story or article in which you're most proud of? Why?

Shari: Most writers will tell you it is their latest work, but I have a short story that was published in an online magazine that I dearly loved. The story was "Santa's Slowpoke Elf" and it was such fun to write but hard to sell. (It was about my husband, but don't tell anyone.)
Next to that I am really proud of my Rooter and Snuffle series. They are fun stories based on two raccoons that visited our back porch when I was a child growing up in the California Redwoods. I love animals and they are fun to write about.

Jen: What books have you written? Is there anything you'd like us to know about your latest release?

Shari: I have written many books but so far only two have been published, with a third on the way. "The Misadventures of Rooter and Snuffle" is the first book in my series and has just been released in paperback. It is available at Amazon and Borders. It is still available from http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com on CD or as a download. The second book in the series "On the Go With Rooter and Snuffle" is available on CD or as a download and will be coming out in paperback soon. The third book in the series is "Trouble Finds Rooter and Snuffle" and should be released in about three months. All three have been illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier and the pictures are really colorful and fun. They are picture/storybooks and each book contains three separate stories.

Jen: I see that you do school visits. Where are you available to visit?

Shari: I am willing to visit schools in the Southern Oregon area.

Jen: What would a typical school visit be like? If a school was interested in a visit from you, where could they go to learn more about it?

Shari: It would be for children ages 4 to 8. I would talk about the different kinds of writing I have done: craft instructions, poetry, puzzles, short stories and books. I would show samples of my writing in magazines. Read some of them, and talk about where writing ideas come from. I would also answer questions from the children.

I am also available to talk about raccoons. I can talk about how raccoons live. I can also tell children how our trash puts wild animals at risk with information I received from Wildlife Images.

For more information about my school visits they can go to http://www.sharilyle-soffe.com and click on School Visits and Appearances.

Jen: What are some books that you're reading right now?

Shari: Unfortunately I haven't had much time for reading lately and, sad to say, the library I depended on for reading material has been closed indefinitely. I guess some communities don't consider libraries a necessity. Sad.


Jen: Is there anything else you'd like us to know about you?

Shari: My mission statement:
I want my writing to entertain children, make them giggle, build their self esteem, and teach them tolerance, compassion, and a love for all living things.


Thank you, Shari, for this opportunity to interview you. We hope to see more of you.

Thank you, Jennifer. It has been my pleasure.