SkyravenSays

I'm still here

2009-09-17T14:08:00.000-04:00

Well, I'm back after a long hiatus away. It's taken me this long to get to the point where I'm doing something writing-related daily. I went through a black period where I just wanted to fall off the face of the earth. But, I needed (and still do) my job. So, I couldn't drop that. Writing ended up getting cut off completely. All of my writing work went by the way side as I dealt with this mood. The day job continues to be very stressful and is part of the reason why I stopped writing at all. I was burnt out to a crisp. I had no motivation, no inclination to write. So, I took a vacation to have fun. Kiddo and I took a family trip to California and had a blast! But, it didn't do anything to relieve my dark mood. I began looking for jobs because I felt I needed a change. Maybe I still do, but I've been reflecting and looking into myself to figure out what hapened to me. And I did. I was burnt out at the day job, which stunted my writing and I thought I was not good enough. I had to get back to the reasons why I became a therapist and a writer. While I've reached that conclusion during this period of reflection, I ve also been connecting with my spirit and with my faith in God. I was talking to Him, but not allowing myself to open my heart to let Him in. So I have been exploring my heart for the Lord and clinging to Him because I already know I can't do it alone. And I don't have to. :) So, I'm still reconnecting; still recapturing the essential reasons for my being a therapist and writer. That's all from me.

Checking In

2009-07-12T14:16:00.003-04:00

Well, the last couple of months have found me with a few changes. My workload has grown, which has kept me busier than ever. My workouts have been helping so much. Not only do I sleep much better, but I've lost two full pant sizes. I need to do more work if I want to drop another size by the end of August when I leave to California. Can't wait for my trip. My writing has fallen off a bit the last few weeks because of the day job being so hectic. I'll have to work that much harder to get myself back on track. I've just been resting and relaxing this weekend though I've been getting some writing done. I'll just have to write when I can. LOl That's all from me.

Making Progress

2009-05-19T15:28:00.000-04:00

Well, my workout journey has been successful so far. If I haven't mentioned it here, I've been working out about five or six days a week usually before work. I've been sleeping a whole lot better and deeper. I also have gotten a flatter tummy and looser pants as a result of my hard work. I played softball last Saturday and still feel my thigh muscles hurt. But it was so much fun! As for writing, I've applied to three jobs today. Got a response from one that I applied to on Saturday and it was a positive "no." They don't need a writer now, but would keep my name and samples on record for the future. Sent a thank you email and kept it moving. Also received my new business cards yesterday and gave some out today. Nice to have Freelance Writer under my name! I've also been looking for more religious markets so that I can send in my work. I found a great one so I'll be working on submissions for that. Poetry for now, but I'll be working on articles. Great pay, too. Well, that's it for now. On to Wednesday.

Back Again

2009-05-17T21:55:00.003-04:00

Back again after a week away. Busy with work, writing and family life I just haven't had time to write here. But here's the scoop so far. I had a blast on Mother's Day Weekend. On Saturday, I saw my communion kids do their First Communion, went out with one of my student's families to celebrate, then had dinner with my sister, niece and great-nephew. Little bugger doesn't like me anymore. He would squeal (like a whistle) and cry with me. :( Kinda sad about it because I was so looking forward to seeing him all week long. After dinner, we all went to my cousin's house to hang out and chat. Always fun for me. Finally I got home at 11:30pm. Exhausted, but great and kid free. Sunday brought me church, then mommies' day gifts of flowers, cards, and earrings. Then I hung out with my dad and his girlfriend for a bit. After that, I crashed for four hours and woke up wanting Chinese food. No cooking, cleaning and stress-free. How cool is that? Working out at least five days a week. Today I'm sore because I played softball yesterday. Wonder how long that will last. Onto this week! Later

Checking In

2009-05-11T08:37:00.002-04:00

Just wanted to catch up briefly here. I had a blast this past weekend. Not only because it was Mother's Day Weekend, but because my communion students did their First Communion. It was great to be a part of this very special day! I played my guitar for the event and then went out with a friend and her family. Her son happened to be in my class. Then my pal dropped me off at another restaurant to meet my sister and niece for dinner. We then hung out at my cousin's house after. It was great! Kiddo spent the day at Chuck E. Cheese and then at the park. I received flowers and earrings from my boys and also receives flowers at church. All in all it was a great weekend and a fabulous Mother's Day. On the menu for today is a post at Examiner, FW and my portfolio along with applying for writing jobs. The day job will have me in training until the early afternoon so we'll see how things go. I'm hoping to get alot of writing done today. I have alot of ideas rolling around my head and need to get them out on paper.

And I'm back!

2009-05-05T19:18:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to finally check back in here. I've been horrible with writing here because alot of craziness was going on at my day job. To the point that I was just too tired to write at home. So I stopped. I'm back on track with writing and posting and have been producing alot more. I hope to do even more than that because last week I found out that my salary would be cut by almost a percent! I know it may not seem like much, but they're cutting my pay. I didn't think it would happen. I expected that I wouldn't get a raise but an actual paycut??!! No way. So, I'm going to make up the difference with my writing. I can do it. So my goal is to make up about $350 a year. I surpassed that goal last year with one of my writing jobs, but what I want to do is keep that money coming in as well as add on the $350 on top of it. Just to have enough cushion for now. So, as I get things done I'll be checking in soon. I'm happy at least that I already bought my plane tickets to California this summer for myself and my son. A family vacation. :) Other than that I continue to be published on-line. Let's see if I can get an article or anything in print.

Happy Thursday

2009-04-09T22:31:00.003-04:00

I had a really great day as a writer. I managed to get an hour to myself and wrote and drafted posts for my sites. I also jotted down ideas for The Freshman Writer to spice things up a bit there. I also applied for a new writing job that will allow me to help out a fellow writer in exchange for mentoring. I think it's time for me to have a mentor. I'll keep you posted. That would be great. :) Skyraven

Checking In

2009-04-08T08:26:00.003-04:00

It's been ages since I've written here so I came by to give a recap. Things have been going well at work and there seems to be something in the works for me there. I'm excited because it would mean doing more clincal work ie therapy. I'm working on my application for my license and it'll be awhile before I complete it. It's very detailed and asks questions I didn't think would be on there. So that's the day job. On the writing end, I've been writing and posting more frequently on my parenting site, which surprised me because I thought I wasn't posting for than once a week. There were times last month as well as this week where I've posted two articles. I'm getting more readership and I'm really excited about that. :) I've applied to yet another major writing job. It's the same as before, but for a different subject. I'm hoping to get into the prep program and get the position. Other than that, I've been looking for other writing jobs to apply for. I've found a couple but haven't applied yet. Need to get cracking on that. Kiddo is doing okay. We got his most recent report card and saw that his conduct needs some serious improvement. I really need to get him through the rest of this school year without any problems. And that means helping him adjust his behavior at school. He's doing well at home so I need to help him take that to school. Off to the day job, so see ya later! Skyraven

Checking In

2009-03-31T00:04:00.003-04:00

It's been forever since I've been on here so I needed to catch up. After nursing a pretty bad cold this weekend, I'm writing and then going off to bed to rest for my first day back at work. Haven't seen the office since last Thursday because I took Friday off and then got sick. Doesn't that suck? It did for me. I spent the weekend trying not to get worse and I did. The weather this weekend didn't help either. But, hopefully I'll be back up to 100% tomorrow. Or maybe 80%. Either way, I'm sick of being sick. Other than that, I've been writing today. About poetry. And actually getting things done ahead of time. I'm also applying to a major writing gig for the second time and keeping my fingers crossed. The kiddo's party a couple of weeks ago went well and he is now and 8 year old badass! LOl. He's a really good kid who's been having some temper tantrums this weekend. It was a rough one because I was already sick. He does really well during the week so I'll have to come up with better ways of dealing with him on the weekends. Later.

Happy to be a Mommy

2009-03-15T20:59:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, we celebrated my son's 8th birthday. My boy's getting bigger in height, weight and attitude. He thinks he's a man and I constantly have to let him know the deal. But, he had a good time and that's the important thing. Family and friends came over to eat junk food and open gifts. :)

A little blue today

2009-03-10T08:46:00.004-04:00

Just thinking of my mom's birthday. Had she lived she would have been 67 years old and retired. She would be making frequent trips to Atlantic City to gamble and win big. Probably taking trips to see family in Puerto Rico and finally making the trip to the Holy Land. Either way she would have been cruising and schmoozing. So here's to you Mami. Happy birthday! Love you.

Oh So tired.

2009-02-25T20:21:00.003-05:00

I'm hella tired. I in my geniusness, stayed up late watching television and then decided to write. Why did I do this to myself? Because I'm enjoying my cable television. It had been so long since I could watch a broad range of channels (five years thereabouts) that I can't get enough of the boob tube. But, now I'm exhausted and have been needing sleep. Going off to dreamland. Night!

Some relief

2009-02-12T22:05:00.002-05:00

Glad that I'm thisclose to Friday. Can't wait for the weekend to start. The kiddo's seems to be doing better. Behaved in school, went to recess, and behaved in afterschool after having trouble for a couple of months. I'm hoping that going to a therapeutic community will help him burn off his extra energy and focus more in school. That and having mentors will help. :) G'night everybody.

Checking In

2009-02-08T18:09:00.003-05:00

A whole week since I last posted. So, what happened? I was cranky all week long and yes, it was PMS. I felt better yesterday and today and then the big red monster showed up. I should be fine now, but I hope this coming week is not a repeat of the last one. Work was very stressful as well and I stopped writing at home. I wrote at work instead on my lunch hour. I couldn't even look at my home computer. The call wasn't that strong last week. But, I'm hoping that it will be this week. I have a few article ideas to write and a few reviews to do as well. I also have an idea to pitch to a parenting magazine. I'm also trying to figure out how to use my counseling in my writing. I'm good at encouraging others in their endeavours, but struggle with my own. Go figure. Skyraven

Warm Weather's Back for a bit

2009-02-01T17:32:00.003-05:00

Well while I froze since the last post, this post finds me in warmer weather. From today until about Tuesday, the temperature will go up to the 40's. OMG semi-warmth. Other than that, I've been hanging out at home watching cable with my son. Not much writing at all this weekend, though I journaled last night for a while. Got some junk out and hope that will help me write today. I was told today that I sounded "light" during a phone call. I feel a bit lighter. Like my attitude is getting better. I'm not feeling as lonely as I did the last few weeks. So that's a plus. I'm hoping this is the start of a nice long trend. Skyraven

So much for warm weather!

2009-01-26T22:50:00.003-05:00

Why does it still feel like I'm under an ice blanket?!? I took my son to school this morning and decided to wear my new Guess coat. After three minutes outside, I decided not to wear it to work and changed when I stopped back at the house for my purse. It's actually too cold to wear my new coat. Just when I thought I could finally leave the Northface at home and not look like an Eskimo, too! Guess I'll have to wait until it warms up to 40 degrees before I can wear it again. Grrr Signed - Frozen in NY.

Enjoying the warmth

2009-01-23T08:40:00.003-05:00

Today in New York City, there's a warmfront coming in. For once in the last few weeks, the temperature will be 47 degrees. Above normal. Weird that I'm so happy it's 47 degrees when I really like warmer weather. No stockings or tights under my jeans and I can ditch the winter coat for a lighter jacket. :) Happy Friday! Skyraven

Feeeling Better

2009-01-18T13:30:00.003-05:00

So now that I've gone through the blue and crappy, I'm okay. Got my paycheck and paid bills. Wrote and put up a new article about "No name-calling week" and spent my time reading and watching movies. Not bad for someone who a few days ago felt sick to her stomach. Going out to a kid's birthday party and hang out with other parents. Maybe a new idea for an article will come of it. :) Skyraven

And now Feelin' Crappy

2009-01-16T21:21:00.004-05:00

So I went from feeling blue to feeling crappy after a chocolate shake hit the wrong spot. I called out sick on Wednesday and spent the entire day sleeping after being up the night before. So I didn't write. I did manage to write an article about "No-Name Calling Week", which happens to be next week thereabouts. I also did research of a couple of sites so that I can do interviews for the parenting site. But I am feeling better now. Though I'm glad this week is finally behind me. This weekend I do have a lot to keep me busy. I have a lunch date with a friend tomorrow, a kid's birthday party on Sunday and a Mother/Tot luncheon on Monday for my part-time job. I need to be busy not only for my sake, but for the kiddo. He needs to hang around other people besides me all the time.

Feeling blue.

2009-01-11T22:48:00.003-05:00

Just checking in today. Well, my cable, phone and internet services was finally installed today after a botched attempt yesterday. Yes everything installed, but the cable guy dropped my television flat on its face while installing the cable box. Good thing is I have the receipt, the box, and a warranty for it. Only a week old and already messed up. Grrrr. Began writing again today after taking a week off. Stress at home and work kept me from writing as well as reading to disctract myself from feeling blue. Its really hard being a single mom, not paying the bills or getting the kid ready for school, but knowing that I'm all alone doing this. No one else can do what I do for this child. That means no breaks for me. I'll have to get some of my friends and family to kick in some babysitting time so I can take a break. Let's see how that works out for me. :) Skyraven

Starting the New Year

2009-01-03T10:33:00.003-05:00

What a way to start the new year. I think I'm doing really well when I go out get my hair done, get a new Blackberry, and get a cheap at home phone service to save money. Well, two out of three ain't bad. Yesterday, I decided to set up the at-home phone service which had been sitting in a box on top of my dining table for a few days. I set it up and it doesn't work. I give it way more than the 15 minutes alloted for the system to work. Not! even after two hours of waiting, the thing doesn't work and messes up my internet services. Then I called three times to get the at-home service fixed only to have two calls dropped and the third person telling me I have to cal my DSL provider to do a dry loop, whatever that means. So, I call my DSL provider who tells me that the DSL won't work without a landline and I would have to cancel the DSL service once the stupid internet light is not on. No digital phone or internet for me. Then, I call the phone company to make sure that my landline service isn't cancelled. It wasn't, but I was informed that once it was cancelled by the other digital phone company, I couldn't get the service back because they don't provide services in my area anymore! What the hell?! All I wanted to do was save money, not have to shell it out! Now, I'm waiting on my cellphone with the cable company to see if I can get phone service without losing my phone number, which I've had since I was a teenager. Many moons as my mami used to say.

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T23:23:00.004-05:00

Just wanted to wish all of you a wonderful and safe new year. Thanks for following me along this year in my adventures. I've been truly blessed this year with many things. A Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling, my first cruise ever (Fun, fun!), two paid writing gigs, and insight about my family and friends. 2008 was very good to me and I hope 2009 will be even better, God willing. So happy new year and thanks for visiting me! Blessings! Skyraven

Happy Holidays

2008-12-23T21:39:00.004-05:00

Posting a bit early this week because I probably won't be online again til Friday. I just wanted to thank all you readers out in cyberland for keeping up with me for the last year and a half. Hope that you've enjoyed what I've written so far this year and that the coming year brings new adventures for me to share! Happy holidays to you all and I wish you the very best in the coming New Year! Blessings! Skyraven

Still Recovering

2008-12-21T21:15:00.004-05:00

I'm so tired. Physically, mentally, emotionally. I've been running around all week with work stuff, which I won't be done with until the 31st. And still haven't done anything for Christmas. Still haven't put up the tree because I get tired thinking about it. It's a six foot tree that has to be assembled and then decorated. I was thinking of getting a smaller tree that's easier to set up. Maybe something that has branches that fold up when you need to put it away. This is the closest I've come to Christmas Day without having the tree up already. Gift-wrapping still needs to get done and I'll be staying up late the next couple of days to do it. Oh well. As for writing, I'm in a funk because I'm tired. But, at least I've been blogging. That's the only writing I've done, but it's something. I'm hoping for many great things writing-wise in the new year as well as in my career at work. So, I wish you the best this holiday season and in the New Year! Skyraven

Thank goodness for reprieves!

2008-12-19T23:19:00.004-05:00

I got a break today because of the bad weather. No classes to teach tomorrow and two weeks off for Christmas and New Year's so that's three Saturdays I get to sleep in late. Finally, something to look forward to. A bummy day. :) I also managed to get the day after New Year's off so that I can have a nice long weekend. Need the time off already! I've been working so hard to get my required number of sessions completed before the end of the month. We're going through our annual audit and have to get everything finish. I will but I've been kicking my butt into gear to get it done. Busy days for the next couple of weeks. Can't wait until 5pm on December 31st! Skyraven PS - Good news to share! I received two checks today from my writing jobs! Woohoo! Still haven't figured out what to do with the cash - save it or treat myself to a shopping spree. hmmmmm!

2008-12-19T23:19:00.001-05:00

Christmastime, Christmastime is here!

2008-12-18T22:19:00.004-05:00

well, after another loooong stressful day at work, I went to a nearly two hour long choir practice today. Played the guitar in an unheated church hoping that my fingers wouldn't go numb. They didn't. But I'm tired. Trying to finish up all of my sessions so that I can take Christmas Eve off and chill out before the big service. Two hours of music and alot of strumming for me to do, but I love it! I love this time of year when hope is renewed and my spirit is lifted. At times, it can be bittersweet for me since my mom's not with me anymore, but it reminds me of fun times with her. Still have to put up the tree and get the gifts wrapped, but I can tackle that this weekend. :) Also have to take the kiddo shopping so that he has gifts for everyone else. Fun! Skyraven

Catching up on Sleep

2008-12-17T21:52:00.003-05:00

One of the things I failed to do on my vacation was sleep. Not because I partied hard and went to bed late, but because my cabin mates both snored. I've been cursed with being a light sleeper since my son was born almost eight years ago. Anyway, I'm still trying to get myself back on a regular sleep schedule. But it's been really hard. My day job has been very stressful and getting ready for Christmas at church is also stressful (I'm in the choir). I'm hoping that I can get back on track soon because this is too much for me right now. So I'm signing off for the night and getting myself off to bed early so that I can start my long day tomorrow on a good note. :) Skyraven

Back from Vacay!

2008-12-11T15:22:00.003-05:00

Hi people. Just got back a couple of days ago from my wonderful cruise! I had such a great time, but am so exhausted from the trip. I did so much and didn't get much sleep at the same time. I traveled from New York, to New Orleans to Mexico, to Guatemala to Belize to Mexico to New Orleans and back home to New York. It was a great journey and I had an amazing time seeing new places and meeting new people. I went on a coupld of tours - one in Guatemala and another in Belize. I went on a shore excursion and met an amazing dolphin named Eva along with her trainer, Tomas. It was definitely one of the highlights of the trip. :) Needless to say, I'm back home catching up with emails and writing and cleaning. So, I'll see you next time! Skyraven Note to writers - Any trips in your future?

Cruising for Nine Days

2008-11-28T21:15:00.002-05:00

If you've been keeping up with me, you already might have read that I'm going on vacation. I'll be leaving Sunday morning at 3 to get to the airport. Flying out to New Orleans, then to catch the Norwegian Spirit to Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Mexico and then back to New Orleans for two nights. Then I come back to NY on December 9th. So, this'll be a hiatus for me. I'll be having fun doing different things and going on adventures. I should have a lot of good stuff to share. Bye readers! Skyraven Note to writers - I'm hoping to get some great material out of this adventure!

Frustrated...

2008-11-23T21:40:00.004-05:00

though I shouldn't be. I should be excited about my trip in seven days. But, I'm frustrated about my relationship with my seven year old son. He's being more obnoxious than ever and being that I work with kids I should be able to deal. But, I also remember that dealing with other people's kids is easier than dealing with my own. Why? Because my emotions are invested in my own child not anyone else's. I know that first, I need a breather from him on a regular basis. I need to have my space too. Sometimes waiting for him to go to bed is not enough and I stay up late to enjoy that me time and then it messes me up for the next day. Anyway, you can see the pattern. I need to keep my cool. He's at an age where we can have lots of fun or lots of arguments. He's opinionated and expressive, which I like. What I don't like is that he forgets I'm MOM. I'm not like anyone else. So, while I'm getting ready for the vacation, I'll also be thinking about how best to deal with him. Skyraven - not feeling like much of a writer.

Taking a Chance on Me

2008-11-20T22:10:00.003-05:00

I decided to join some of my writer mates in a new goal for 2009. I will be submitting an essay to Latina Magazine (a national glossy) for the lifestyle section in the May 2009 edition. It'll be about not having mom on mother's day. I haven't written anything, but I've been thinking about it. I want to have it drafted in a few weeks (after my 9 day vacation) and then polish it off with a query by January 31. I wanted to challenge myself and push myself further into my writing. I know I need to do this if I want to grow as a writer. I'm also re-reading Jenna Glatzer's book "How to make a Living as a Freelance Writer." I also want to get to bed earlier no later than 10:30pm to get up earlier 6:30am to write before the day job. I've been trying to write on my lunch hour but so far it hasn't been working out. I need to be more disciplined and schedule regular writing time for myself. :) Happy Writing to me! Skyraven Note to writers - How will you challenge yourself as a writer?

I've been Taggernated!

2008-11-17T23:01:00.004-05:00

My pal Amy over at the forums at Absolutewrite.com has tagged me. Now I've got to share Five Interesting Things about Me. So here they are. 1. Don't touch my stuff! I get so veklempt and fajarted every time my stuff is taken without my permission. Anal I know. Residual effects from having a younger brother take my Walkman's (four in all) without my permission and giving them back all busted up. 2. I taught myself to play the guitar. I got one for my 20th birthday and have been playing ever since. My guitar was my first baby. SHHHH! Don't tell my son! 3. Anal is my middle name. I have a routine for EVERYTHING. I used to think it was because I had OCD, but I think it's because I need to control everything. Wait? I AM OCD!! 4. I'm a Readerholic. I love to read, look at books, hang out at bookstores. I love books! 5. My favorite place? Barnes & Nobles. I once stayed at one for five hours studying for a test for grad school. It must've done me good, because I got in. :) Now who do I tag? I have to get Jen, Mysti, Wyntermoon, Jenn, and Inkkognito.

Zonking Out

2008-11-16T21:35:00.003-05:00

The stress I've been feeling lately finally caught up with me yesterday. I was so tired that I took a three-hour long nap! I haven't done that in ages and obviously, I've been exhausted. I woke up feeling great and started writing. I wrote on my portfolio, updated my writer blog, and wrote three articles for a parenting site. Seems like I'm on a roll. I wanted to keep the momentum going so I also posted here. :) Sleep does a body great! Skyraven Note to writers - Are you getting your zzz's?

Fried Brains Anyone?

2008-11-12T21:57:00.001-05:00

Crispy, fried, stressed-out brains. That's what I've got. My workplace is going through an audit and it's just stressful to make sure to get the job done. I've beenworking hard all along, but now to backtrack and review everything I've done has me going through paper and electronic records. My eyes hurt from the squinting and I hope to feel more rested tomorrow. Maybe I'll even get to write! Skyraven Note to writers - I know you get stressed. What's stressing you out right now?

Taking Chances

2008-11-09T20:20:00.002-05:00

This week has me taking chances on a lot of things. One with my writing. I've applied for a position at a major content site and am hoping to be accepting into their training program. I don't know what possessed me to hit send, but I suspect it was the confidence I'm starting to have in myself as a writer. I've been writing a lot about the topic I applied for and I'm hoping to get through the training and get the site going. :) I'm also taking chances in my personal life. Just thinking about the decisions I've made and reflecting on what's right for me. I've been doing this since my birthday two weeks ago. Nothing like a birthday to get you thinking. :) Skyraven

Checking In

2008-11-02T23:18:00.003-05:00

Well, I've been busy this week celebrating and enjoying my 31st birthday. Got my hair done, phone calls and text messages with birthday wishes along with a great pair of winter gloves and a card. Went out to Sofrito's (a Puerto Rican restaurant in NYC) and then went out to a club with my friend Tasha. I had a really good time. My father also gave me spending money for my upcoming cruise (only 28 more days to go!) and then I hung out with my best friend, her son, her mom, and my son. :) Writing-wise, I didn't do much this weekend except to write and send out an article about forgiveness for a church newsletter. I haven't heard back yet about it, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Other than that, not much. I have to go review my goals for last month to see how much I've accomplished and then plot out my goals for this month. We'll see how that goes. Skyraven

A Mentor's Goodbye

2008-10-28T21:54:00.003-04:00

I received the sad news last night that a mentor passed away on Sunday night. I had been out of touch with her since the summer. When I did reach out to her I got voicemail. Unfortunately, she had lung cancer and fought for two months. She was very special. If I could be half the therapist she was, I'd be truly blessed. So here's to you A. Weisberg. May you fly among the angels! Skyraven

Good Sunday

2008-10-26T22:54:00.003-04:00

Had a great time at the Bronx Zoo today. A Halloween celebration with the kiddo was just what I needed today. We waited in line for an hour and a half for facepainting. The two of us, (yes I did it too!), waited forever to get our faces done up and it was worth it. Beautiful artwork on our faces and then we went exploring. We went to see the animals and the best part was it was all free! A church friend of mine gave me a complimentary ticket and my won and I found out at the ticket booth that his ticket was free because he wore a costume. It was a total accident that he wore it because I thought about it right before leaving. So the money I would have spent on tickets I spent on souvenirs and food. It worked out great and we had a blast! i hope to post the pictures up as soon as I get them off the camera. :) Skyraven

Hump Day

2008-10-22T20:51:00.002-04:00

I did nothing writing-wise the last two days. I journaled for about five to ten minutes today and drafted out the rest of a short story for my writing course. Just got so stuck that I didn't want to work on it anymore. I have a better idea of where the piece is going. Just don't know where it will end up. Other than that, I haven't done much with anything else except my portfolio and writer site. I'll see where the rest of the week leaves me. Skyraven

Mom and Son Day

2008-10-18T22:33:00.003-04:00

We got back a few hours ago from a trip into the city to Chelsea Piers. Checked out the Science Barge. It's a greenhouse on a boat powered by wind and solar energy. It was pretty cool. They had eggplant, basil, peppers, and two kinds of tomatoes along with strawberries. What's even cooler is that they are connected to City Harvest and Whole Foods so that anything that's harvested isn't wasted. I liked that they receive french fry oil - the kind restaurants throw away - to power a back-up generator that blows hot air on the plants in case the temperature drops in the greenhouse. It was so warm, I unzipped my jacket. But, my favorite part was watching the kiddo ask all kinds of questions and understanding how everything worked. He even explained it to the tour guide! We then went to play in a park nearby. It was a great day. Skyraven

Quiet Friday

2008-10-17T23:09:00.003-04:00

Just sitting here thinking of a few things. Just drafted a bunch of article and blog post ideas. I'm also thinking of questions for my first email interview. It's not so much the questions, but really thinking if I could turn the interview into three different articles. One for a parenting site, one for my writer sit and one for an monthly that I receive. Still thinking. Skyraven Note to writers - How to do you get through moments like these?

Broke Anyone?

2008-10-12T19:33:00.002-04:00

Okay, being a single parent is hard! Not only am I dealing with the emotional aspect of breaking up, dealing with the kiddo's feelings, and dealing with the financial stuff as well. I'm working on my writing so that it can be another source of income besides the day job. I'm also doing a lot of belt tightening to avoid overspending including using coupns, eating at home and taking lunch to work. I'll also be implementing a budget for myself to get a handle on spending. We'll see how this goes for me. Skyraven Note to Writers - What are your fav money saving tips?

Checking In

2008-10-09T22:07:00.004-04:00

I've been busy the last few days. I wrote a new parenting article for a gig I scored through craigslist (I think). I don't remember where I found out about the website, but there it is. I've also been keeping up on my new websites and writing a ton. Still missing my mom, birthday is coming up, and I'm single now. I've been throwing myself into writing instead. I've been very busy as a writer. Let's see where this takes me. Skyraven - Writers do you write when under stress?

Check In

2008-10-05T20:57:00.004-04:00

Since my last post, I finished the press release (had it edited, too), started an essay for the cup of comfort series, started a letter of introduction for the press release, and helped a friend with her graduate essay. I've also updated Notebook News as of yesterday and worked on the writer websites. I also applied to a writing job. As you can see, I've been super busy with the writing and now I'm getting my feet wet with marketing my new writer site. Let's see what comes up. :) Skyraven Note to writers - What have you been up to?

On the Menu

2008-10-01T23:05:00.004-04:00

Since its the first day of the month, I wanted to post my goals. Here goes: 1. Update this blog 3x/week. 2. Update Notebook News daily. 3. Write a press release for my writer website. 4. Pitch and draft an article about temper tantrums. 5. Send in picture and bio for a blogging site. 6. Look for writing jobs daily. 7. Apply to at least two writing jobs a week. I think this is a good list for me. Last month actually saw me develop two new websites though I didn't really query or apply to too many jobs. I got a couple of bites and last night I submitted an essay for an anthology about moms. Hopefully, I can get all of these done. :) Skyraven

Not So Blue

2008-09-30T22:45:00.005-04:00

Today, I went to work feeling less blue than I felt on Sunday. My mom was such a big part of my life, especially when I was going through tough times. While she comforted, she criticized and jolted me out of negativity. Now, when I go through hard times, I cry more, hurt more, ache more because she's not there for me to call her and complain about whatever is bothering me. So, it seems I'm stuck in a cycle, except that I've been reaching out to my family and my friends. I have a great friend who I don't see/talk to very often, but she told me last week "You cannot be sad, be happy that you're alive!" No pity parties with her. I'm gonna have to put her on speed dial so that I can keep on going. :) In other news, I've been writing a whole lot. I submitted an essay for an anthology about moms. I'm drafting an article about temper tantrums for a parenting website. I've been writing on the personal news network. Check it out and comment. Skyraven

Feeling Blue

2008-09-28T17:00:00.003-04:00

I went to church today and my eyes watered as I sang. I remembered one of the last times I sang that song. Tears rolled down my face as I played my guitar. I couldn't speak or sing, so I put my head down and kept playing. Today didn't go that way. My eyes watered and I stopped singing. When I felt I could, I did. My mom has been gone for six years now. The official date is tomorrow, but she died on a Sunday evening. Ovarian cancer took my mother in six months from diagnosis to death. I've been able to move forward, but I still miss everything about her. I miss her hugs, her voice, her laughter. I miss the blessing that I got every time I said hello and goodbye. I really miss her food. There's nothing in the world that makes you feel like an orphan as losing your mother. Skyraven Francisca R. 1942 - 2002

Writer Lunch

2008-09-25T21:19:00.003-04:00

So today I did something new at the day job. I devoted my lunch hour to drafting ideas for my new writer site, looking for writing jobs, and doing edits for an essay I want to send out next week. I just put on the Ipod and went to work. Happily. I even journaled for a while to let off some steam. I just might do that more often. Having a stressful full-time job can cause major blocks for me. I just went through it a couple of weeks ago and I had to request an extension for an assignment for my writing course. So I didn't write and couldn't think and didn't want to write. Skyraven Note to Writers - How do you get through a writing block?

Working Writer

2008-09-23T09:19:00.003-04:00

I've been getting a lot of writing done the last few days. Recently, I applied for a gig through pnn.com - personal news network. In order for me to land it, I have to ask questions each day that will get people commenting, voting, and clicking through the site. I'm really hoping that I get it because I really enjoy it. Here's the site if you want to check it out. The next big piece of news I have is that I started my own writer website aimed to help beginning writers and not so beginning writers be inspired and get published. This came out of my own desire to get as much information about freelance writing as possible. There's so much I don't know that I want to learn and share. When I've finished setting it up, I'll let the cat out of the bag.

Chatting with my Pals

2008-09-17T22:06:00.003-04:00

Right this second, I'm online with my writer friends. No one but a fellow writer can understand what I go through. My submissions, rejections, joys, disappointments. My writing buds can relate to all of that and then some. Go out and connect with fun people today. Look for people who share your interests, your passions and you'll go very far! Skyraven Note to writers - How do you connect with your writing friends?

Making Mistakes

2008-09-13T10:41:00.003-04:00

Doesn't it feel crappy when you have someone point out to you the errors you make? It's like someone points a mirror your way and says "this is wrong, that is wrong." What's worse is when you KNOW you made a mistake and all you can do is sit there and shrink in your seat. It also sucks because the ego is blown to bits and starting over is hard. Building the ego back up takes time and effort. Hindsight is 20/20. I hate that. I hate that someone can track back to the point where things started going in the wrong direction. Now there's nowhere to go but up and to make sure that the things used to keep oneself in check are there. Good friends, good reads, and doing good work. We don't exist in a vacuum. Everything we do or say affects others. Sometimes we all need to be reminded of that. Skyraven Note to writers - This sucks. How do you deal with mistakes?

Hump Day

2008-09-10T21:34:00.003-04:00

Nothing writing-related done today. Just stressing over the day job and looking for a new one. I like the day job, but its just not a good fit. I want to find the one that fits me. We'll see where the search takes me. Skyraven Note to writers - We are a lucky bunch because the work we do fits us.

Suddenly Sunday

2008-09-07T21:44:00.003-04:00

The shorter the week, the faster the week ends and starts again. It was just Tuesday and now, it's almost Monday. Yes, here come a case of the Mondays. :(P I'm hoping to just get through the week. With work and home and music. There's just busyness all around me. Then again it's not like I didn't go looking for it. My work is stressful, but I love what I do. Music is fun and I love it too. Just when I put more things on my plate, it takes a bit of adjusting. So I will. Skyraven Note to writers - How do you get through overwhelming times?

Simon's Auction

2008-09-04T21:07:00.007-04:00

Hiya readers and writers and whoever else has been following me. :) For the last few weeks, I've been following the story of little Simon, a beautiful boy fighting (and kicking butt, too!) to survive as a preemie. As a fellow writer, his mom, Mysti has been doing everything she can to keep as close to Simon as possible. Right now, Mysti, her husband Rob and son Jaden have been traveling four hours round trip to see Simon in Denver from their home in Wyoming. Mysti's writer pals, (myself included) have got an auction going to raise money for the entire family to be temporarily relocated to Denver until baby Simon is stronger. Mysti is looking to raise $6000. A small drop in the bucket compared to how happy this family will be to be together. :) Please support Simon and his family now at Simon's Auctions . Skyraven Note to Writers - This auction is for writers and the crazy people who love them. A lot of great books, packages, and items are available for any budget. Let the bidding war begin!

September Writing Goals

2008-08-31T23:50:00.005-04:00

Every once in a while, I like listing what I'd like to accomplish with my writing. So here goes: 1) Blog here twice a week. 2) Apply to two writing jobs a week. 3) Write and submit 2nd assignment to writing course. 4) Finish reading WriterMama. 5) Write query/article for Writing For Dollars. 6) Send essay out for anthology with Sept. 31st deadline. Skyraven Note to writers - What are your writing goals for September?

Almost Discouraged

2008-08-28T23:01:00.003-04:00

A lot of a writer's job is to find a home for every written piece. I was getting frustrated today because I search for writing jobs and found nothing that fit me. I even googled online writers jobs thinking I would find something useful. I didn't. Instead, frustration kept growing until I wanted to quit. But if I had quit, I wouldn't have found a site that did fit me and the kind of writing I do. Imagine that. Persistence paid off for me. I also requested guidelines for another site. I searched, but found nothing. Hopefully, I'll get a bite. In the meantime, I'll continue working on my article and send a query. :) Plugging away. Skyraven Note to writers - What keeps you from giving up?

Out of the Dumps! Yay!

2008-08-27T22:07:00.003-04:00

Since I've been reading and doing the exercises in Writer Mama, I've written more in the last few days than I've had in the last couple of weeks. :) I drafted a baby shower gifting article that I saved in the notes on my cell phone probably last month. Forgot all about it until I started reading. I also outlined a website for newbie writers. Doing the exercises got the juices flowing again and my confidence way up. I'm going to look for writer jobs and look for markets for the article and outline a website for my work. We'll see how that goes. Thank goodness for WriterMama. :) Skyraven Note to writers - When you're in a slump, do writing exercises to get you out. :)

The Downy Dumps

2008-08-24T21:37:00.003-04:00

As a mom/therapist/musician, I have much more confidence in myself (most of the time) in my ability in each role. But, confidence in myself as a writer is kicking my butt! I don't know about other writers out there, but I've come down hard from a high of selling my first article last month. I've been applying to loads of writing jobs with no bites. I'll do what I did best as a grad student.... I'll hit the books. :) I'm reading "Writer Mama" by Christina Katz. I took one of her classes and loved it. Hopefully, reading her words of writer mama wisdom will get me back on track. :) Skyraven Note to writers - How do you get out of the dumps?

Simon's Blog

2008-08-23T19:20:00.004-04:00

Hi all, Just wanted to share a bit about a fighter. His name is Simon and he's nearly a month old. Simon decided to show up to the party early. Simon's mom is doing what she does best...she's writing about it. Her blog about Simon's progress touched my heart and I just wanted to share it with you. Sometimes, life is just about fighting everyday, struggling to get things done. Way to go Simon. Keep fighting! My prayers are with you and you family. :) Skyraven Simon's Blog - http://onewomansheart.wordpress.com/

Stepping Stones

2008-08-21T22:46:00.002-04:00

Ever have a moment where you thought "Is this the right place for me? Is this where I'm supposed to be?" I had that thought today, yesterday and the day before. As part of my day job, I have to earn enough hours to get a license to practice. I love where I am, close to home, great benefits, etc. The only snag is not being able to step somewhere else to get it. Just worked out that way. It seems this job is a stepping stone to others things. Moving on is painful and it sucks. But from one time to another, everyone has to do it. Hopefully, this won't be too bad and the next step will be as great as this one. :) Skyraven Note to Writers - What kinds of stepping stones have you been on?

Writer's Lunch

2008-08-17T20:15:00.003-04:00

I went out to lunch this weekend with a writer from one of the online forums I'm in. I had a great time just talking and relating to someone who is a writer. We did more of a back and forth interview and then talked about writing. I want to see if I could find a group in the area because so many of my writer buds are online. On to Monday. Skyraven Note to writers - How to you get connected to other writers?

Back to School Contest

2008-08-15T21:24:00.005-04:00

I'm on a new site called Type A Mom and they're holding a contest. My seven year old could use the prize and I could use the savings. So help a fellow mom/writer out! :) Skyraven

Busy weekend

2008-08-09T12:01:00.002-04:00

Barbeque, baby shower, baptism, wedding anniversary. I'm using my downtime (right now) to chat and surf. Other than that, I have gift shopping to do. Note to writers - when do you get your writing done when you have a million and one things to do? Skyraven

A day off!

2008-08-03T16:59:00.003-04:00

I decided last week to take tomorrow off. I'm still trying to think of what I can do. One thing I want to do is head out to the library to do research on some of my goal magazines. I also have to pick up my master's degree, this time with my name spelled correctly. Other than that, I'm going to just relax. :) Skyraven Note to writers - How do you relax on days off?

Good News!

2008-07-29T10:54:00.002-04:00

My flash drive was sitting on my desk. So no worries on that one! But, I was so relieved that I found it. I would have been devastated if I lost it. So that's one piece of good news. The next is that one of my articles was accepted for publishing and I will be paid for it as well! My first paid article and second paid piece! I'm going to keep the work going and see how much I get published. :) Note to Writers - Doesn't it feel great to get paid for doing what you love? Skyraven

Doh!

2008-07-27T22:26:00.003-04:00

I realized yesterday that I lost my flashdrive, the one with just about every piece of writing I've ever done! URGH! The last time I remember using it, I was at work on Friday. I thought I put it in my purse. Not! I went to apply for a writing job and needed my resume. When I went to get it, I flipped. I think (and hope beyond hope) that it's at my job, because I'll go nuts. I thought I was being careful by saving my work on the flash drive. I also thought about getting an online place where I can keep all of my writing. I just don't like having my stuff on the computer in case it stops working. I'll check back tomorrow. Note to writers - How do you back-up your work? Skyraven

A Writer's Inspiration

2008-07-26T16:12:00.008-04:00

If you've been watching the news or Oprah or YouTube, you've probably heard of Randy Pausch. If you haven't, make it your business to. I saw him on Oprah reprising his lecture "Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams." I was blown away by his words, not so much because of the content, but because of his audience. He did the lecture for his three small children. In August 2007, Pausch was given a diagnosis of terminal pancreatic cancer. Knowing that he did not have much time left, when he was given the chance to do the lecture, he jumped at it. Why? So that his children would know him when they were older. His oldest child is six years old. He'll be lucky to have memories of his dad, but not the other two. Randy passed away yesterday morning at his home in Virginia surrounded by his family. I just wanted to honor someone who throughout his life was not afraid to do what he dreamed. To honor a man who walking in death, lived life in a great way. Thank you Randy for your words and thoughts. Thank you for inspiring me to do what I dream. Skyraven

Reading about writing

2008-07-23T08:56:00.002-04:00

If you've been following me here on the blog, you'll have read by now that I'm taking a long-term writing course to improve my fiction and non-fiction work. I finished my assignment last week and decided not to do anything else because my brain was fried. I knew that I had to read "On Writing Well" as part of the course requirement. I had seen the book before at Barnes & Noble and other bookstores, but was never interested in it. It's a thirty year old book about writing. What could Zinsser teach me now about writing that would still be relevant after all those years? A lot apparently. I'm already on the second chapter, closing in on the third. Note to Writers - What writing-related books are you reading now? Skyraven

Trigger Happy.

2008-07-21T21:07:00.003-04:00

For writers, being trigger happy is hitting the send button with submissions. I've been that way for the last couple of weeks applying for blogging and article writing jobs. What's even more surprising is that I like seeing my "sent" box growing with submissions of my work. My confidence is growing and I'm feeling my oats. :) Finishing my writer's resume also helped. I sent out my info for a blogging job last night and one today. I'm also waiting for topic approval on an article for a parenting website that I queried a couple of weeks ago. Go me! I also submitted my first assignment for the writing course I'm taking. I'll keep you posted on my progress. So writers - What gets you trigger happy? Skyraven

Playing Catch Up

2008-07-15T20:05:00.003-04:00

I decided to check in today after meaning to do it Sunday. I've been run ragged ever since my son started summer camp. We have to be up by 6:30, out the door by 7:30 (the latest) and at the pick-up site by 7:45am. Monday through Friday. On top of that, I wasn't sleeping enough. Last Friday I crashed for thirteen hours straight. Just sleeping. I'm tired now, but I've been forcing myself to get to bed no later than 10. The exhaustion keeps my mind foggy enough not to want or be able to write. My first writing assignment for my class is due tomorrow, and I'm only halfway done with the first draft of a character sketch. It's so much harder to think when you're not well-rested. Hopefully, I'll get the draft done tonight and let it sit until tomorrow morning. Work is work is stressful is work. But, I love what I do. I just have to get a balance going between family, work and writing. :) Note to writers - How do you get it all done? Skyraven

A bit behind

2008-07-08T22:15:00.003-04:00

I'm a couple of days off with this entry. I responded to a few writing ads and got a response back. I stewed over the weekend over whether or not I really wanted to submit an article. I guess I sent it thinking that I wouldn't get a response. I replied to the email with a proposal for an 800 word article. Keep your fingers crossed for me. :) Writers - what have you done with your writing lately?

Blogging Anniversary

2008-07-02T22:07:00.003-04:00

Happy Fourth of July and Independence Day all! :) Happy first birthday to my blog! Blogging has been an adventure for me. Most of the time, I didn't know what I wanted to share, how much, or why. But I did. I'm just surprised that a year went by so quickly. I hope to continue blogging on a more regular basis ie. more than twice a week. Skyravensays she'll keep churning out observations, thoughts...you get the idea. :) Skyraven

An Unexpected Surprise

2008-07-02T21:57:00.004-04:00

I attended a writing workshop today for work. For the most part, I already knew a lot of the information provided. Nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs. Commonly misspelled words; that kind of thing. One thing I did take away from the workshop was a planning chart that could be used to outline just about any kind of project you could think of. The chart was simple to use. I found the exercise challenging because I often freewrite first and then edit my projects. Filling in the chart helped me to practice organizing my thoughts to start. :) I also didn't think I'd get the chance to blend work and writing in that way. Note to writers - Having a non-writing related job can add flavor and depth to your writing. :) Skyraven

Writing Inspiration

2008-06-29T18:47:00.002-04:00

A question for writers - how many different ways can you slant an idea for different markets? The reason I ask is because today I had an idea for a how-to article and found three ways to use it. Possibly. That really depends on how I fill in the rest of the information for the markets I have in mind. A question for readers - have you read Randy Pausch's book "The Last Lecture?" I found it so moving that I had to put it down several times to avoid crying. It was too much to handle at times, but I couldn't resist going forward with because I had to know what happened. I also surfed over to the companion site to check it out. www.thelastlecture.com. I loved how much one person could accomplish the amazing. Inspiring people to do more, be more, live more. Thanks Randy, for inspiring me to forge ahead and live well. May you continue to do so. :) Skyraven

Fatigued Friday

2008-06-27T21:35:00.003-04:00

This week was a very long for me. I worked late on Monday and Wednesday and was sick yesterday and today. Not much to report in my writing life. I wrote a bit, blogged a bit and sent out a query for a writing gig. That was a big surprise for me because I'm often too chicken to apply. I guess my fear drove me to hit send. :) Skyraven Note to writers - What does fear drive you to do?

A Litte Bravery

2008-06-22T19:12:00.004-04:00

Today on a break from being lazy, I spent the last few hours enjoying family movie time. Something that I haven't done in ages, so it was way overdue. The best part - not the movies themselves, but the infectious tickling sound of my seven-year-old laughing his butt off! :) There's nothing like the happy laughter of a child to a hard-working mom. On that note, I've been trying to transfer my confidence as a mom to that of a writer. My son has helped me be stronger than I ever imagined I could be. Being single, working at a crappy job for seven years, being the mom, and going to school full-time to finish a master's. If I could do all that, what's there to stop me from fulfilling my dreams as a writer. Here's my new mantra, "If I could be a working mom, I can do anything." Note to writers - What's your mantra for writing? What gets you motivated? Skyraven

Lazy Saturday

2008-06-14T16:41:00.002-04:00

Just hanging out this hot June day. Surfing on the web, checking out potential homes for my work and writing down article ideas. I feel I'm lazy because a good deal of my time is spent looking around rather than writing and submitting. Writers, what are the things that stop you from getting your work published? What are the distractions or excuses you use to keep from writing? Skyraven

School's in for Me

2008-06-08T21:26:00.002-04:00

Writing school that is. I received the first packet for my email writing course. My first assignment is to write a letter to my instructor introducing myself. Not a difficult thing, but not an easy one either. How do I put myself in two or three pages of notes? Guess I'll be thinking about it for a bit. It's not due until July 16 so I have time. :) In other writing news, I've been journaling a whole lot and reading as well. I spent nearly a hundred dollars Friday at Barnes & Noble. :) Book heaven! Most of the books were in the clearance section and all under $8. The other three went over a bit. I overdo it when I go because I don't go to book heaven very often. :) Note to writers - Where do you go book hunting? Skyraven

In a Writing Groove

2008-06-05T22:30:00.002-04:00

I took some well-deserved time to myself after a training for the day job today. Instead of going home, I stopped in a deli place to get something to eat and listen to music. I took the time to journal a bit when I got an idea for a submission that I'd been mulling over all week. I was stuck on what to write when journaling helped me. So writers, what do you do to get unstuck? :) Skyraven

Taking a Step Further

2008-06-03T22:58:00.003-04:00

I registered today for my writing course! I was accepted in April, but decided to give myself a month off after finishing grad school. I needed the break because my brain was fried! I'm excited about it because I get to work on fiction and non-fiction at the same time. I was also attracted to the idea that I would earn college credit for the course. The materials should come in the mail in a couple of weeks. I can't wait to start! :) Skyraven Note to writers - June is Professional Wellness Month, what are you doing to get your writing and publishing in gear?

TGIF

2008-05-30T17:47:00.002-04:00

Happy Friday to all in the blogosphere. I'm just home from the day job and trying to figure out how to get my writing stuff done. These are my current writing goals: 1. Blog twice a week. 2. Submit pieces from my writing inventory. 3. Research markets for my work 4. Start my writing course. So far, this is how things have been going. As of today, I've been blogging twice weekly, I submitted a poem to a contest, and have been researching places to send my work off to. I have to call the school office to let them know that I want to start this month. That'll be on my to-do list for Monday in my new planner. I also bought that as part of my goals to help me keep writing as a priority. Enjoy the weekend people! :) Skyraven

A New Record!

2008-05-24T22:35:00.003-04:00

It's been 100 posts since I've started this blog! Yay! Now, I can die in peace knowing that I have 100 of something going for me. :) It's taken me nearly a year to write 100 times about different things. Family, school, work, etc. Still, I have much more to write about; much more to say. Let's see what the next hundred posts bring! Note to writers - What have you done at least a hundred times? Skyraven

Last Night was Awesome

2008-05-16T21:41:00.004-04:00

Grad school is offically over!!! And to top it off, I sent in a poetry constest submission. :) The next chapter is entitled "Writer and Counselor." I couldn't help but to post about the fact that I've accomplished two things - graduate school and submitting my work! I'm so sick of not being brave and letting that keep me from getting my work published. Now that I've accomplished a huge goal, there's no way I'm going to let myself make excuses. That's so over! :) Skyraven

Graduation's HERE!!!!

2008-05-14T21:17:00.002-04:00

I'm graduating tomorrow and ecstatic that I'm closing a chapter in my life and opening a new one! I can't believe that my three-year journey in grad school is over. I received my last grade yesterday. Finished off with at 3.6 GPA and will be getting my degree soon. :) The hard work will soon pay off. :) (throws cap in the air!) :) Skyraven

Salute to Mom

2008-05-11T13:04:00.003-04:00

To all the moms out there in the blogosphere, Happy Mother's Day from one mom to all of you. Para mi Mami - Deseo que donde quiera que estas, Mami, que estas viviendo todos tus suenos y que estas acompanada por tus padres y tus hermanos. Ojala que nos vemos un dia. Hasta que llege mi tiempo, que siempre me acompanes y me ayude vivir con mucho amor y carino. Tu hija querida, Heiddi

The Muse is Here

2008-05-07T21:37:00.003-04:00

I've been writing and going over the stuff that I've done without sending out. I've always been afraid of what others might think of anything that I put out there, even when it's something I do really well. I know I need to get over my fears of rejection. So, one goal is to submit something I've written once a week. This week I'm submitting one of my poems for a contest. Hopefully, doing this once a week will get me going. :) Skyraven

Catching Up with Family

2008-05-03T17:52:00.004-04:00

Family: I just talked to one of my brothers a few minutes ago to see how he was doing. Seems he's doing well and just like me, just trying to get through life. And I had to wonder how is it that there are families that are so close they get together every weekend while there are others that falls apart when the glue goes missing (my mom). It's times like these when I have cause to celebrate that I miss her and our family the most because if she were here, she'd be celebrating with me and so would everyone else. Even as a counselor, I still wonder why families seem to break apart and scatter in different directions. More important, how to establish connections after years apart. It's been on my mind since I began counting down to graduation. :] As for writing, I'm trying to put together a routine to get my stuff really going. Limits on email, readign alot more, and polishing up the stuff I've written to send out. Still trying to get down what it is I need to do so I can get it done. Writers -Any suggestions? :) Skyraven

A time to Write

2008-04-28T20:31:00.003-04:00

I've been contemplating my writing life and how I don't live it. My current writing is limited to emails, forums, and this blog. Though I love communicating and sharing ideas with others, I'm petrified of submitting work that I KNOW is good. I know I'm not the greatest writer that ever lived, but I am a good one. I'm scared. That's it. I'm just scared. And I don't know how to make that official first step out into the world as a *gulp* writer! I thought that joining a few groups, reading some newsletters/books, and blogging would help me overcome my fear. I've even published a few pieces and have gotten great feedback on it. Heck I was paid for my writing for the first time last year! Yet, that fear clings to me and stops me. I like to share information with others. I do it all the time at work, but when I think of putting that down on paper, I freeze. A call to fellow writers/bloggers: HELP!!! :/ Skyraven

Can I graduate already?!

2008-04-27T14:25:00.003-04:00

Sometimes, i have to wonder why things happen the way they do. I know someone down below does not like me and he's trying to mess me up and piss me off. I received a statement from by school financial aid office with an account balance that I can't afford to pay right now. I also paid for tickets to my hooding ceremony with the idea that the tickets would be placed in my mailbox at school. NOT! I have to get down to the school manana to get them in person and settle my bill. I'm not that worried because I know the Man upstairs will cover me. In other news, I'm getting used to working just to work. I've slowly been adjusting to not have to worry about internship hours or homework or anything else. :) It's weird not having to do that after three years. Now, what can I do with this free time? Aha - I'll write and publish and keep it moving. Skyraven

The Last Day of Class!

2008-04-23T22:53:00.003-04:00

No more school, no more books. No more teacher's heavy books! Ok, I changed it. My teachers didn't give me dirty looks; they gave me alot of love and support. I've enjoyed my time at school, but I'm so glad it's finally over after three long years! I can't wait to graduate and will celebrate with a cruise! :) N ow, I can take the break that I need. I've also been trying to read a lot more non-school books. I just finished reading Kabul Beauty School by Debbie Rodriguez. Great read. I enjoyed the way she related to others in another country and was moved by the women of Kabul. She was able to empower them in their own culture, which was fabulous! Skyraven

Checking In

2008-04-14T22:48:00.005-04:00

Well, it's been two weeks since my last post. A definite showing of how busy I've been since the comps. I submitted my last homework assignment last week (woohoo!) and took my final test (National counselor exam) this past Saturday. I was reeling from the first test so, I didn't study for the second one. But, all that's over! Four weeks to graduation and counting! :) On a writing note - I was accepted into the Long Ridge Writing Program and will be starting in June. :) Skyraven

I see the light

2008-03-28T22:35:00.002-04:00

I just found out last night that I passed my comprehensive exam!!!! I'm so over the test and so over school I wish I graduated today so I can move on with life. Four weeks left until the ned of my master's career! About a month and a half until graduation. i can't believe that the tunnel has gotten clearer and the light seems to be approaching fast. My son has been challenging me with attitude since his birthday a couple of weeks ago. He wants to tell me "no" and actually wants me to go along with that, especially when I (MOM) tell him to do something. So, it was off to bed early for the young man who tried. I'm not saying he can't tell me no once in awhile, but he can't use his no to disobey me. But, I still love him. He tried to get out of going to bed early by stalling. Didn't work. :) But, I have to give him credit for trying. Work is great and it's not work. I love my job, no scratch that, I love my career. :) It's so great to finally get to do something that I've done in the past and wanted to do again...helping young people. i have no idea where this journey will lead me, but I think it's gonna be a great ride! :) Skyraven

Pretty Satisfied

2008-03-18T18:39:00.004-04:00

Ever had a day when you are satisfied with just about everything that happened? When you can't possibly ask for anything more? My day was yesterday. I took jello and juice cups to my son's school for his birthday. I also had a really great workday as well. I just love being able to help others. I really love making my son happy. The hustle from work to home to his school and back to work was worth the smile on his face. I got a chance to see him in his element with his classmates and teacher. Got some great pictures, too. I capped off today by completing and mailing out my writing course application. I wonder how long it will be before I get a response. I'll keep you posted. Skyraven PS - Check out Premium-Green from www.wow-womenonwriting.com. It's a great site for writers of all levels.

Counting down til graduation

2008-03-11T22:53:00.002-04:00

Only 7 weeks left until school ends and 11 until graduation!!!! Woo Hoo! I'm sweating out my comprehensive esxam this Saturday and the national counselor's exam next month. I'm just hoping that I do well in both cause I can't take the pressure anymore. As for writing, I've decided to apply to the Long Ridge Writing Course. I think that a long-term course is what I really need to get my writing on the fast track. I've not submitted much of anything in the last few months and have been neck deep in work and school, not to mention raising a 7-year-old on my own. :) But so far, God has found a way to keep me together to get everything done. A couple of days off and I should be okay. Skyraven

A Bit Behind

2008-03-01T00:07:00.003-05:00

I'm slightly over my "I'm going to blog once a week" goal. So far, it seems to be working for me. I've been overwhelmed by work, which I love, but still overwhelmed. I'm also in the midst of the chaos of finishing the semester, taking exams, and graduating. Grad school is tough to get through, but even tougher to get out of. As for writing, I've put together a few pieces - two poems, a short, essay, and a song. I'm letting them fester while I think of other things to do to help my writing along. I've purchased "Writing to Change the World" by Marh Pipher who also wrote a book for newbie therapists entitled "Letters to a Young Therapist." Not only have I been suffering lack of writing confidence, I'm also suffering a lack of therapist confidence. I'm hoping that a therapist who is a writer, or a writer who is a therapist can help me get through my two passions in one piece. :) I've also just received my application for the Long Ridge Writing Course, which I hope to complete within the next few weeks. I've been very busy writing and doing things to improve my writing. I hope that I can get through the next couple of weeks (March 10 - my mom's birthday (d. 2002); March 14 - my son's birthday; March 15 - my comps exam). Still trying to study while attempting not to be so stressed out with work, home, and family; AND trying to write things that make sense to someone other than me. :) Wish me luck! Skyraven

The Writer's Back

2008-02-17T17:11:00.002-05:00

My writer self took a back seat for a few weeks because I was stressing over my son's behavior issues. Today, I submitted an article about destressing for $10. I'm hoping that I get a bite on it and keep on going. Writing is definitely hard when life gets hard. I've been busy distracting myself with games, work, my son and school so writing is not number one on the list. That's why I keep this blog, to get things out of my head and in print. Note to writers: Life will always happen, writing does not. So make time for it everyday. :) Skyraven

Struggles

2008-02-09T21:40:00.000-05:00

Last week it was my son. This week, my struggle is with change. I'm faced with being a single parent. It's not what I want for myself; not what I ever wanted. I still have dreams of being married and having more kids. This is hard because I have no one to share it with. I'm alone here and my mom is gone. I'm not close at all with my father and I have siblings that live in New Jersey, Delaware and Long Island. Being a new single person is much harder with out family around than I think it would be with family to help me through it. So, I'm putting all of my energy in my relationship with God because He's all I have right now. I'm lonely, frustrated, isolated, yes. But, I'm drawn to living the life that God has planned out for me. I only hope that I can continue without falling too hard, too often. :) Skyraven

Overwhelmed Mommy

2008-02-01T19:02:00.000-05:00

I don't know if it's just me (though I highly doubt it), but today is a crappy Friday. Yes, it's the end of a long stressful work/school week. Yes, I got paid today. But, I was greatly challenged by my six-year-old. I went to pick him up at school where he proceeded to have a 45 minute tantrum. He did not want to go home and did not want to leave the school. I had to forget that he was my child and look at him as one of my clients because the fury was building up. It took a lot of patience not to scream til I was hoarse, but I did it. I had to walk away and sit for a minute listening to my Ipod for two minutes at a time so I wouldn't lose it. Being a parent without support is the hardest thing I do, harder still because my child is a boy and I'm not. I find it harder to connect with him during these times because I have to be stern and firm and stronger than ever. I know that if I let him get away with this stuff, he'll walk all over me, especially when he gets older. Can anyone relate? :\ Skyraven

Publishing Sucess

2008-01-25T19:42:00.000-05:00

I just confirmed today that my letter about my pastor will be published in the "Letter to the Editor Section" of the Catholic New York Newspaper! I think it's great because not only do I get to see my letter printed, but I get to share my feelings about a wonderful friend. I still have to figure out where to send the poem. If there are any suggestions, I'd love to hear them! :) Skyraven