#50 Precious Words Contest Entry

My Mom is a Ninja (50 words)
By Megan Haslem Jones

Brave.
Prepared.
Problem solver.
I think Mom is a ninja.
Stealthy.
Ninja.
Accurate throws.
Ninja.
Cuts, chops, dices.
Ninja scream.
She must be a ninja.
“Powerful kicks,” I overhear.
Stretchy clothing.
Afternoon meditation.
She IS a ninja!
“Mom, I know your secret.”
“Excited? Future big brother!”
“Huh?!?”
Not a ninja.

Thank you, Vivian Kirkfield for organizing this fun event.  Writing a story in only 50 words has helped me to grow as a writer.  I had to evaluate and analyze each word more than I usually do.  Not being able to use illustration notes added another layer of fun.  I used all 50 words in this version.  Previously drafts were a little shorter, but this version is my favorite.

For more information about this contest (and other awesome kid lit info) check out https://viviankirkfield.com/

Wow, there are so many talented and creative writers participating in this contest.  I think I'll spend the rest of the day reading all the fun entries.

Chapter Book Challenge

March is turning out to be a busy month.  It is only the 2nd!  I'm pushing myself to try new things.  I usually write picture books, but I'm writing early chapter books this month, too.  My original idea was too long for a picture book.  So I'll try it out as an early reader with the possibility of it turning into a series.  We will see where the month takes me.  For more info check out: http://chapterbookchallenge.blogspot.com/

Storystorm 2017

This was my first year participating in Storystorm.  It has been so much fun.  I highly recommend it. Mark your calendars for January 1, 2018.  I'd write more but I have 35 new ideas calling my name for some love and attention.  Until I can write more, check out www.taralazar.com it is a gold mine of information.

Why do I write?

Honestly, the first answer that comes to mind is that I write for my sanity.  I've always had a job and been enrolled in college.  Almost always at the same time.  You can't put the cart before the horse and you can't pay for college without money.  Now, I get to be home with my two adorable, busy sons.  I am so glad that I get this time with them and that I can be home with them for every giggle, tear, snuggle, and memory.  That also means I am home for every bad day, tantrum, poop bomb, and mess.  The good far outweighs the bad.  I promise.  Sometimes by the end of the day, I need some sanity.  I need quiet time.  I need to not have someone smearing who knows what on my shirt sleeve.

I've always loved writing.  I've recently found old stories that I wrote years ago.  About a year ago, I told my husband I need a hobby.  A real hobby.  I chose to pursue writing.  At first, my theory was that it is easier to pull out a laptop or a piece of paper than drag out art supplies or practice the piano while my babies sleep.  One day I hope to work on those other hobbies, but writing is my main goal now.

One of my dreams has always been to write children's picture books.  I researched online, read books, and started putting my thoughts to paper.  A funny thing happened.  I love it.  I have the writing bug and I can't stop.  I lucked out by finding a local critique group.  I was absolutely terrified to go to that first critique, but I am so glad I did.  The members were so welcoming and kind.  The first story I shared that night was terrible.  It was, really.  I know it was.  One day I will go back and revise it.  Since then I've joined official organizations, made amazing connections within the writing community, and even entered a writing contest (more on that later).

Here is to my sanity.  What helps you keep your sanity?