tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53502764764551728882024-02-07T00:51:55.371-05:00Linda ZajacAward-winning science writer specializing in stories about cutting-edge science, technology and biotechnology and how they’re used to advance medicine, study wildlife and protect the environment. Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.comBlogger728125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-56198868758036009312021-04-25T08:05:00.015-04:002021-08-02T05:45:44.542-04:00Teacher Resources<p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><b><span style="font-size: large;">Robo-Motion</span></b><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><iframe allow="autoplay" height="480" src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZNPjc2Dl7L5ECdbVligzB6PmwlfYXko9/preview" width="640"></iframe><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jmJyzeVE-3NyNqQbTEGw9ziRC6HV6t3g/view?usp=sharing"></a></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Here's a coloring page that can be used in the lesson (above). None of these animals are in the book.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><iframe allow="autoplay" height="480" src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/17r0VgtYeae5_D8Iu2d1pd2naTMRl3WC5/preview" width="640"></iframe></span></span></span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><b>Minecraft</b></span></p><p>use the elements of story in Minecraft to write a story</p><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><a href="https://www.patriciamnewman.com/litlinks-surprise-video-game-story-elements-improve-student-writing/" rev="en_rl_none">https://www.patriciamnewman.com/litlinks-surprise-video-game-story-elements-improve-student-writing/</a></div><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><br /></div><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="<iframe src="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ai3Liri2vVKmg5NNv1WW6i04_vYVzJ-TFahg9XHd788/edit?usp=sharing; width="640" height="480"></iframe>"><iframe height="480" src="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ai3Liri2vVKmg5NNv1WW6i04_vYVzJ-TFahg9XHd788/edit?usp=sharing" width="640"></iframe></a></span></span></div><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Minecraft Redstone</span></b><span style="font-size: medium;"> - coding</span></span></div><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><br /></div><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []" style="text-align: center;">Logic Gates</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kWbh3TH_8PE" width="320" youtube-src-id="kWbh3TH_8PE"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><br /><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []" style="text-align: center;">Loops</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DGw4P0O7mO8" width="320" youtube-src-id="DGw4P0O7mO8"></iframe></div><br />Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-46933617669425678402021-03-31T10:53:00.011-04:002021-11-19T19:05:33.181-05:00My Books<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZmOIX9FtDwn6TlgMnokzkXd1BTRvif4D8QYGSWrhD_NASP6NgPQ6vmmgzVUAD8yRYsC1Fvb0Sh5BDQUwjaVd6Tx9WJNohkgEJfgcFqjJ3WUEkuVTxA1QspcOJxUww5FZIfQg-xh4Q4H3b/s400/coverRoboMotion.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZmOIX9FtDwn6TlgMnokzkXd1BTRvif4D8QYGSWrhD_NASP6NgPQ6vmmgzVUAD8yRYsC1Fvb0Sh5BDQUwjaVd6Tx9WJNohkgEJfgcFqjJ3WUEkuVTxA1QspcOJxUww5FZIfQg-xh4Q4H3b/s320/coverRoboMotion.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Discover animals and the robots that were built to mimic their motion in this photographic nonfiction picture book.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><u>Reviews</u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Kirkus: <span style="color: #800180; font-family: times;"><b>Delightful, motivating, and thought-provoking—a winner for any bookshelf.</b></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;">review: </span></span><span style="text-align: left;">https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/linda-zajac/robo-motion/</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">The Horn Book: <span style="color: #800180;"><b><span style="font-family: times;">Recommended</span></b> </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">review:https://www.hornbookguide.com/site/www.hornbookguide.com/site/?reviewList=book-bundles-natures-designs</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><u>What people are saying</u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: times; text-align: left;"><span class="JsGRdQ" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: 700;">I wanted to let you know how much the kids love your book. I was with them yesterday and not only read this to Addie at least 3 times, but much of our play time was centered around 'surgery.' Her octopus arms had to search around and find what was wrong with me!</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: times; text-align: left;"><span class="JsGRdQ" style="font-weight: 700;">~ Kathy T.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: times; text-align: left;"><span class="JsGRdQ" style="font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: times; text-align: left;"><span class="JsGRdQ" style="font-weight: 700;"><i>Wow, what a beautiful well written book. Beautiful large pictures of the animals, and matching "robots." Beautiful colored pages. Great descriptive language which is easy to understand. She even included a glossary! Definitely has all the features of a great nonfiction text used in the classroom! Very well done!</i></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: times; text-align: left;"><span class="JsGRdQ" style="font-weight: 700;"><i>~Eileen T.</i></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Robo-Motion-Robots-That-Move-Animals/dp/1541581261/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=robo-motion&qid=1617200773&s=books&sr=1-1" style="text-align: left;">Amazon</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/robo-motion-linda-zajac/1135456948?ean=9781541581265" style="text-align: left;">Barnes and Noble</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://bookshop.org/books/robo-motion-robots-that-move-like-animals/9781541581265" style="text-align: left;">IndieBound</a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFitwuOvgCTgwDW1sPl-xGsU6WSlCNszOz8IJX_Iry1wmXWEeBdTsH1WUv5ayBRvlBq_Xba65N8dws4z5FLhyphenhyphene5ERkX7hF_pp58ryurlfxVizlTypgu7HEvCRyMlWbYfObd7sRuaA4HCA0/s436/covercreative.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="342" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFitwuOvgCTgwDW1sPl-xGsU6WSlCNszOz8IJX_Iry1wmXWEeBdTsH1WUv5ayBRvlBq_Xba65N8dws4z5FLhyphenhyphene5ERkX7hF_pp58ryurlfxVizlTypgu7HEvCRyMlWbYfObd7sRuaA4HCA0/s320/covercreative.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With an endless supply of blocks, you can design and build all kinds of things. Learn the basics about creative mode in this book for grades 3–6. Includes STEM and coding sidebars.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unofficial-Guide-Minecraft-Creative-Alternator/dp/1728415446/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=zajac+minecraft+creative+mode&qid=1617201443&s=books&sr=1-1">Amazon</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-unofficial-guide-to-minecraft-creative-mode-linda-zajac/1135456912?ean=9781728415444">Barnes and Noble</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://bookshop.org/books/the-unofficial-guide-to-minecraft-creative-mode/9781728415444">IndieBound</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyyirskUzInULK9EyZz-tmgo8TNfZswPkWKrf_SBtj_LfqSTpNtxVlKc1Dp9HqmJPRQXV8ojlBJevnBiTOAwJpi4NZ-xaiUxwLmbsJnwPOC3_OnT2hjWLTbnqCPP1vc162BFyu2EVIn-E/s436/coverenchantments.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="342" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyyirskUzInULK9EyZz-tmgo8TNfZswPkWKrf_SBtj_LfqSTpNtxVlKc1Dp9HqmJPRQXV8ojlBJevnBiTOAwJpi4NZ-xaiUxwLmbsJnwPOC3_OnT2hjWLTbnqCPP1vc162BFyu2EVIn-E/s320/coverenchantments.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Increase your power by enchanting tools and armor. For grades 3–6. Includes STEM(physics) and coding sidebars.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unofficial-Guide-Minecraft-Enchantments-Alternator-ebook/dp/B08C9DQN31/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=zajac+minecraft+enchantments&qid=1617201483&s=books&sr=1-1">Amazon</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-unofficial-guide-to-minecraft-enchantments-linda-zajac/1135456844?ean=9781728415499">Barnes and Noble</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://bookshop.org/books/the-unofficial-guide-to-minecraft-enchantments/9781728415499">IndieBound</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuz7l5S7aK8KFkocxJ4FKlMgJLNiUVBgpsnWZOcnfBCp4nUYLDSUd1D0AXRRvrV2EUFK09NAQA4OhqOZfP-vTw9ToF-3TOkmeXbiXAgW-ggBKPGOLbFnGmOePtZm_WUpehEiM0fVR3omx-/s436/covermaps.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="342" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuz7l5S7aK8KFkocxJ4FKlMgJLNiUVBgpsnWZOcnfBCp4nUYLDSUd1D0AXRRvrV2EUFK09NAQA4OhqOZfP-vTw9ToF-3TOkmeXbiXAgW-ggBKPGOLbFnGmOePtZm_WUpehEiM0fVR3omx-/s320/covermaps.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">By mapping your world, you can find resources and reduce your chance of getting lost. For grades 3–6. Includes STEM and coding sidebars.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unofficial-Guide-Minecraft-Alternator-Books-ebook/dp/B08C99RSX8/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=zajac+minecraft+maps&qid=1617201512&s=books&sr=1-1">Amazon</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-unofficial-guide-to-minecraft-maps-linda-zajac/1135456915?ean=9781728415543">Barnes and Noble</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://bookshop.org/books/the-unofficial-guide-to-minecraft-maps/9781728415543">IndieBound</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1d_41V_hA8s7u6Qs-a4Epv8mMYhmw46swgpBq0epcKYpsMF1mJB6IDGr46AUYuY0gdl8gibppl3mREhmtBZZg5XnAUWK5xuteDCEDz3h49qYOnuP5Ff9kYAfaflFuAaLBkgIBYj8BQvq8/s2048/cover+mods.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1d_41V_hA8s7u6Qs-a4Epv8mMYhmw46swgpBq0epcKYpsMF1mJB6IDGr46AUYuY0gdl8gibppl3mREhmtBZZg5XnAUWK5xuteDCEDz3h49qYOnuP5Ff9kYAfaflFuAaLBkgIBYj8BQvq8/s320/cover+mods.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With mods, you can add features that aren't in the game. This introduction to modding has information about some popular mods. For grades 3–6. Includes STEM and coding sidebars.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unofficial-Guide-Minecraft-Alternator-Books/dp/1541538862/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=zajac+minecraft+mods&qid=1617201546&s=books&sr=1-1">Amazon</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-unofficial-guide-to-minecraft-mods-linda-zajac/1129063895?ean=9781541546127">Barnes and Noble</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://bookshop.org/books/the-unofficial-guide-to-minecraft-mods/9781541538863">IndieBound</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3kS_Fi_kAVTGFVMQc2oIaWXMEyscw-Kaz85sUkDy7mnn44vEF5dPxXRo1DzpS0Ty-RDmbzHYhJ9YHP1n1GAvdInML7ZIS7m-XpNIvvYPeR0N5ajV4U9F2lPXQ_oelGbYre1RHLpcvUn2s/s436/coverredstone.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="342" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3kS_Fi_kAVTGFVMQc2oIaWXMEyscw-Kaz85sUkDy7mnn44vEF5dPxXRo1DzpS0Ty-RDmbzHYhJ9YHP1n1GAvdInML7ZIS7m-XpNIvvYPeR0N5ajV4U9F2lPXQ_oelGbYre1RHLpcvUn2s/s320/coverredstone.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With redstone, gamers can make traps and contraptions that use logical operators. For grades 3–6. All sidebars are coding related.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unofficial-Guide-Minecraft-Redstone-Alternator/dp/1728415594/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=zajac+minecraft+redstone&qid=1617201579&s=books&sr=1-1">Amazon</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-unofficial-guide-to-minecraft-redstone-linda-zajac/1135456811?ean=9781728415598">Barnes and Noble</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://bookshop.org/books/the-unofficial-guide-to-minecraft-redstone/9781728415598">IndieBound</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGDZPv_wuwaMRXS87ue3x1hp7hKNGHcVS15YFYTEDTaweDtBTrDhDMC-Lsgv3a_4RO38vXv7XuvCSgxq6Rcss2wy-3OpNBcgGhsM6E6a61eyo7367wEN4z7P2fEbo14U6KAKqgFmbB43z/s2048/cover+survival.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGDZPv_wuwaMRXS87ue3x1hp7hKNGHcVS15YFYTEDTaweDtBTrDhDMC-Lsgv3a_4RO38vXv7XuvCSgxq6Rcss2wy-3OpNBcgGhsM6E6a61eyo7367wEN4z7P2fEbo14U6KAKqgFmbB43z/s320/cover+survival.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you're new to the game, this book for grades 3–6 provides an overview of how to survive the first night. Includes STEM and coding sidebars.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unofficial-Guide-Minecraft-Survival-Alternator-ebook/dp/B07JKG8HGF/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=zajac+minecraft+survival&qid=1617201608&s=books&sr=1-1">Amazon</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-unofficial-guide-to-minecraft-survival-linda-zajac/1129064099?ean=9781541538870">Barnes and Noble</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://bookshop.org/books/the-unofficial-guide-to-minecraft-survival/9781541538870">IndieBound</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-45471981061757004612020-11-19T14:46:00.001-05:002020-11-19T14:46:51.433-05:00<p>Coming in September of 2021! Like so many other books, my picture book release date was postponed a year. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmZdHUSz5Wh9c5JdGds3OudakJ4hROI5XJ803lfDxAyZi2FWCjHJ5EloxIoiQaH1tV_5bc4lGG5VD6o8tKJhwngl5W1xK5pu6KaUKNmLv5Plb51gWQcQHqtmjf67ooTfJBP_Aj1TkvCU8P/s400/Robo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmZdHUSz5Wh9c5JdGds3OudakJ4hROI5XJ803lfDxAyZi2FWCjHJ5EloxIoiQaH1tV_5bc4lGG5VD6o8tKJhwngl5W1xK5pu6KaUKNmLv5Plb51gWQcQHqtmjf67ooTfJBP_Aj1TkvCU8P/s320/Robo.jpg" /></a><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>I made a few <i>Minecraft</i> videos about redstone rollercoasters (fun!), loops, and logic gates. You can find them on my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6G4ISUdMeIehw-hl6lG3mhnz0PSu3zE0" target="_blank">YouTube channel</a>. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p>Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-12495934877384048752020-04-12T20:25:00.001-04:002020-04-12T20:31:13.125-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHhTeUu0vni4s_Wrlsx9EK5mY6UHtbnTKKh26Vvmk7XBtUUg3EBvU9CyJRHH6dZ5fUd2z_WteLcVLj0qon_nJTvGi6pOcj1JCx8oYVpCpR7MuvgW70OQ3U2yR-D_GBuOnIXNmvvga9ywA/s1600/Untitled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHhTeUu0vni4s_Wrlsx9EK5mY6UHtbnTKKh26Vvmk7XBtUUg3EBvU9CyJRHH6dZ5fUd2z_WteLcVLj0qon_nJTvGi6pOcj1JCx8oYVpCpR7MuvgW70OQ3U2yR-D_GBuOnIXNmvvga9ywA/s320/Untitled.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've been working hard on this 4-book <i>Minecraft</i> series for Lerner Books. I even took work with me when I went on vacation in November. The books are for 8–12 year olds. My personal favorite is the creative mode book. However, redstone is a lot of fun too, especially the railroad tracks. I'm hoping to take a video of the roller coaster I built and include it on my blog (once I figure out how to do that). The neatest thing about redstone is that it's easy to build rollercoasters and you can click on a mine cart and go for a ride. What a thrill!</div>
</div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-85450952176326173752019-08-22T21:27:00.001-04:002019-08-23T16:41:51.316-04:00Conference-Vacation Packing Tips<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1-LDlHkYrsDc1dOp9obkhFpUUsG2UFNW5g5N0tL_r5lszxhoGD57sGuODYnld_awJ1lPDuBRh9srkTNoZ8GBhUF4J1hRys3xEH0sgqnIF0prKDnWGHjNiT8cehRjMQUXbq4dLMM5exBvY/s1600/snow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" data-original-height="433" data-original-width="1600" height="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1-LDlHkYrsDc1dOp9obkhFpUUsG2UFNW5g5N0tL_r5lszxhoGD57sGuODYnld_awJ1lPDuBRh9srkTNoZ8GBhUF4J1hRys3xEH0sgqnIF0prKDnWGHjNiT8cehRjMQUXbq4dLMM5exBvY/s400/snow.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: black; caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.870588); text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Aiguille du Midi, French Alps</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This year, I traveled to two conferences and extended the dates of my stay, making them vacations too. Since I don't waste time and money checking bags, packing was a huge challenge. To make things more difficult (of course), I brought my laptop. I love typing and rearranging my notes on the spot, but the device adds weight to my bag. For one trip, I also needed clothes for temperatures that ranged from below freezing<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> to 107<span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">°F. Talk about challenges. </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt9dJlM_e_7xYvAQiPrn6p-o95FIqB2pk7Z4tw_S0u5qwKxIEi-LuhN1CmJX0oetFUAtIIFWeYI97h7F9TXIVy85NYvaDm3TigsRJZrdKd0yV6NvPRS_xwAeLMF5eS3Hjn-z-xEV1u4msS/s1600/hot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="779" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt9dJlM_e_7xYvAQiPrn6p-o95FIqB2pk7Z4tw_S0u5qwKxIEi-LuhN1CmJX0oetFUAtIIFWeYI97h7F9TXIVy85NYvaDm3TigsRJZrdKd0yV6NvPRS_xwAeLMF5eS3Hjn-z-xEV1u4msS/s200/hot.jpg" width="96" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaHodrbSJzmdtaCxn1qMPUng0LpjYjewq6A2JDps4D9xQ7EQ3SCp3fRYlCjLOnoFygtf6oUdL3PzdPiEZlwSBB4RYV6MSo8Cbi-bz_FgoTxkPn6xhsBZEtitWQcsZYSgnGvWOvwI8bQoMf/s1600/coldtemp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="779" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaHodrbSJzmdtaCxn1qMPUng0LpjYjewq6A2JDps4D9xQ7EQ3SCp3fRYlCjLOnoFygtf6oUdL3PzdPiEZlwSBB4RYV6MSo8Cbi-bz_FgoTxkPn6xhsBZEtitWQcsZYSgnGvWOvwI8bQoMf/s200/coldtemp.jpg" width="96" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the afternoon temp.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJdMaxHsP4DSetjTlJLlRREiguMtjSFxtJ8wMlAu-3Aw_hYLo-zAnsIN4Dfm-xSzsV3AiE-PlDHYUXiTbEpG6uFgSVWuYo_41lFxNYAAduAI-bQOJZQroVOSwR2e7g06Wfs_5qUgeRueuR/s1600/walt%2526Icold.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJdMaxHsP4DSetjTlJLlRREiguMtjSFxtJ8wMlAu-3Aw_hYLo-zAnsIN4Dfm-xSzsV3AiE-PlDHYUXiTbEpG6uFgSVWuYo_41lFxNYAAduAI-bQOJZQroVOSwR2e7g06Wfs_5qUgeRueuR/s400/walt%2526Icold.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">I needed that warm jacket.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Here are some of my packing tips:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1. Pants - Convertible pants (roll-up or zip-offs) do double duty as pants and capris. (Prana Halle). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">2. Shirts - Nicer sleeveless shirts work under a blazer and also with shorts.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">3. Packable down coat - lightweight and doesn't take up much space (Patagonia Nano Puff) - I tested this jacket out beforehand. It's warm, but on a windy day, you need a windbreaker over it, so I brought one.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">4. Lightweight travel blazer (Uniqulo jersey blazer)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">5. Underwear - ExOfficio -2-3 pair for a 2 1/2 week vacation</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">6. Downy Wrinkle Releaser - 3 oz. This stuff works great, but it's a liquid so it does take up valuable space in your one quart bag.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">7. Makeup - Rather than bring a heavy glass container, I put it in a plastic contact lens case. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">8. Toothbrush - I cracked off the handle and threw out the toothbrush before returning home<span style="color: #222222;">.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWG_wK7-7ewQcmoWNMrB5ZE4FIAERL1D6kQJ_sRr3kQ61XgfGioKQU8-ZEBJpEksa47Z7VhSoNDPm_HNWxmfUC8NX6LhSPf9rXXgyT-u665niac8F15-Vf1WheB9TzwUzoSV5Oe3SWQITj/s1600/lavender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWG_wK7-7ewQcmoWNMrB5ZE4FIAERL1D6kQJ_sRr3kQ61XgfGioKQU8-ZEBJpEksa47Z7VhSoNDPm_HNWxmfUC8NX6LhSPf9rXXgyT-u665niac8F15-Vf1WheB9TzwUzoSV5Oe3SWQITj/s400/lavender.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: black; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 14px;">Sénanque Abbey in Gordes, France - It was over 100</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left;">°F that day.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Instead of dealing with laundry, I washed out my things in the sink with shampoo and body wash. After rolling them in a towel, I hung them up to dry. Despite all of my efforts, my backpack was still pretty heavy, but I had everything I needed.</span></span><br />
<br /></div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-1744083616359626242019-06-16T20:07:00.002-04:002019-06-16T20:12:16.481-04:00critique tips<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzpJj6LsGu25Ba4b3_ZBD6vNeEnM4di5WJqhDZhjK8V32_CWKz-Rj_6qCjN_O0_9LGqNw2HhC-RzyUW4rebwg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
While I was in Florida for a nonfiction conference, I did my first radio interview on <a href="https://thetiberiusshow.com/">the Tiberius Show</a>. Here's a short clip of that session.<br />
<br />
The conference was excellent. Admission included a fifteen-minute critique, which brings me to the subject of this post. I have some advice for my fellow critiquers:<br />
<br />
<b>1.</b> <b>Have a pen and paper handy</b>. The editor was speaking as I rifled through my laptop bag for the thin notepad that I had tucked inside it. My laptop bag has so many compartments, I couldn't find it. Flustered, I grabbed a piece of paper, flipped it over and started taking notes on the backside. I wish I had the pen and notepad in my hand when I sat down.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>2. Bring extra manuscripts with you. </b>This probably isn't necessary for a fifteen-minute critique, but I've had twenty-five minute critiques that ended early. One editor at the <a href="https://easternny.scbwi.org/events/falling-leaves-2018-masterclass-retreat/">Falling Leaves Retreat </a>asked me if I had anything else she wanted me to look at.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Prepare your pitches</b>. For longer critiques, you might have some time to pitch additional manuscripts. At the Falling Leaves Retreat, someone told me they pitched one. She said you could use the critique time however you wished.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>4. You might be able to tape it</b>. Someone at the <a href="https://editandgetit.regfox.com/beachside-nonfiction-retreat-with-candace-fleming-jennifer-swanson">Beachside Retreat in Florida</a> told me she asked the editor if she could tape the critique session. The answer was yes. </div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-63428847931733410842018-09-08T07:42:00.000-04:002018-09-08T08:18:28.853-04:00Work-for-hire deadlines<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxao6RPDoNvOT9e1Ue-5Sy7uS8SnrFPHVBU3hKKZzpnyzGfHq6haQJOqzyqkvc5aJ2zmL8rZvx32wCESFbwf9po6eCjrEcJMwoQsaDZXtIpNklemYRabvbtFnAil4LwvSISth6EopuWeo/s1600/IMG_7112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1433" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxao6RPDoNvOT9e1Ue-5Sy7uS8SnrFPHVBU3hKKZzpnyzGfHq6haQJOqzyqkvc5aJ2zmL8rZvx32wCESFbwf9po6eCjrEcJMwoQsaDZXtIpNklemYRabvbtFnAil4LwvSISth6EopuWeo/s400/IMG_7112.JPG" width="357" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This juvenile barred owl was sitting on my next-door neighbor's deck.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In the writing world, it's common knowledge that work-for-hire books have tight deadlines. If you're considering this kind of work, you might want to know exactly what that means. Here are my deadlines for Lerner:<br />
<br />
For two books in a 4-book series:<br />
Length = 1600-1800 words<br />
<br />
January 3 - received guidelines, compensation information, and deadlines<br />
January 17 - sent outline to editor<br />
January 23 - received editor's comments about outlines <br />
April 2 - due date for book 2 (the harder one) <br />
April 16 - due date for book 1 <br />
May 23 - received edits for book 2 and the text for the frontrunner* in the series<br />
May 24 - received edits for book 1 <br />
May 31 - sent revisions for book 2 to editor (they typically give author's a week for revisions) <br />
June 7 - sent revisions for book 1 to editor<br />
June 13 - received photo wish list for book 1 <br />
June 23 - received photo wish list for book 2<br />
July 1 - I uploaded most of the photos (I had to wait on a few) <br />
July 30 - received book layouts for review<br />
January 2019 - publication date <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRNY6heh_WobSMUy3aGkzKfZFsz8XCW4Ka37ovvIv2MtJfd9CSRyg7A7YJUpT0dFtu6W9C23jgdiuyJLX0eQJMmgL2esv70kEqjks1rG-FQX2qOf1pJRQRDMKxOphKqRZJekwrL6Wv38GV/s1600/IMG_7107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1493" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRNY6heh_WobSMUy3aGkzKfZFsz8XCW4Ka37ovvIv2MtJfd9CSRyg7A7YJUpT0dFtu6W9C23jgdiuyJLX0eQJMmgL2esv70kEqjks1rG-FQX2qOf1pJRQRDMKxOphKqRZJekwrL6Wv38GV/s400/IMG_7107.JPG" width="372" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When they're begging for food, juveniles have unusual calls.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
*The first edited text in a series is referred to as the "frontrunner."<br />
<br />
As you can see, these books kept me busy the first half of the year. If I had to do it over again, I'd ask more questions at the start to confirm that what I was thinking matched what they were looking for. The photo portion of the project was a lot of fun and there were no deadlines. I delivered the photos via a steady stream of Dropbox uploads. Since I had planned a vacation in early April, I lost a week of work time, so that added to my stress level, but I made all my deadlines. Even though the deadline for book 2 was shorter, I worked on and handed in book 1 first. Logically, it made sense to do it this way.<br />
<br />
The nice thing about the process is that a published book is produced in a relatively short period of time. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZbOHFPP3phe_m-YTeaJ7bj_gyxD6e3R4iPHLYK-ApTrZqzyR-bSEVGEgzrkV0ouxmrTauCn7uIhxowqar0lfrOu-Bsl_nhPeY7_1vU91p6pS4HZcVEvgFvRzgXsoQomiMLRM3Iw-qtK-M/s1600/IMG_7113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1295" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZbOHFPP3phe_m-YTeaJ7bj_gyxD6e3R4iPHLYK-ApTrZqzyR-bSEVGEgzrkV0ouxmrTauCn7uIhxowqar0lfrOu-Bsl_nhPeY7_1vU91p6pS4HZcVEvgFvRzgXsoQomiMLRM3Iw-qtK-M/s400/IMG_7113.JPG" width="323" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The owl has spotted me hiding behind my neighbor's garage. It's ready to fly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I wondered why the deadlines were so short? Do editors allocate less man-hours to save money? Is the demand for this book so strong that they have an urgent need for it? Have they found that giving writers an extra week or two doesn't affect the quality of the book? Got me. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-23693904566876362412018-04-19T18:20:00.000-04:002018-04-19T19:13:38.406-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyUzebDQ9quAp2-XbGit1NDI8AgC0pwvEZbOAevgGQTd3RRJLHaAo5Ve5_nvsCP6cERqg-aPtcG5SVYhogzbw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
I had my writing career all planned out in my head, or so I thought. I'd write lovely, lyrical books and editors would acquire them. It hasn't worked out that way.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnVR6VonHcnvdIr9800AJLUxErMSVZwN9my25zx-Vo6QH4VOKz97ORg62DKBnSyN8dq85hu10kfNOU-YVheIU0Tp9zy8Y82kVmfl27x01jScNrgT127tstxdBjOxbPpiyAyJ_KNfacQ4ck/s1600/IMG_0785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="373" data-original-width="1600" height="91" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnVR6VonHcnvdIr9800AJLUxErMSVZwN9my25zx-Vo6QH4VOKz97ORg62DKBnSyN8dq85hu10kfNOU-YVheIU0Tp9zy8Y82kVmfl27x01jScNrgT127tstxdBjOxbPpiyAyJ_KNfacQ4ck/s400/IMG_0785.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The TransCatalina Trail goes up and down some mighty steep mountains.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Over time, frustration softened my resolve to stay on course and I became more open to new possibilities. This year, it's clear being flexible and snapping up opportunities when they surface are key attributes that allow a writer to grow and survive in this <span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span class="t"><span class="mw_t_it">ü</span></span></span></span></span>ber-challenging business.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy62WwPbjeKpPwcqgQbmJWfXAx2hk0QR4lNqa3G9JiroTGJFpUwCyCYgBBL0joo1CP_XG0FWFrJGHL3KoRgVsMCAuf-Og3duZQt_5OBIJgRghqPIPNl1qkoYHF-q4nXPmTvQox5jlL6HiV/s1600/IMG_6896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy62WwPbjeKpPwcqgQbmJWfXAx2hk0QR4lNqa3G9JiroTGJFpUwCyCYgBBL0joo1CP_XG0FWFrJGHL3KoRgVsMCAuf-Og3duZQt_5OBIJgRghqPIPNl1qkoYHF-q4nXPmTvQox5jlL6HiV/s400/IMG_6896.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://dornsife.usc.edu/wrigley/wmsc/">The University of Southern California's Wrigley Marine Science Center</a> was below this hill on Two Harbors, Catalina. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Ten years ago, I never could have predicted I'd be writing two computer-related work-for-hire books and pitching scripts. Although I still aspire to achieve my original goals, I'm less focused on getting somewhere in particular. Now, my direction isn't so set in stone. It sways with the wind and takes me places I could never have imagined.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVCJWgAQIwuWRzX2px7xf9EH_BOn8Bmfdvin9kKfnN0Ld77QTBc73epzT1482oDioOaX1gPSqZfJ3Z7oo0NSbFqsSGhHSh9l_QCpqB8bW7xCmSIHz2KKbNItFesZ6w3QGYIykfm9-bTcFN/s1600/atphoto_gallery_map_763_164_15229614055381957847051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVCJWgAQIwuWRzX2px7xf9EH_BOn8Bmfdvin9kKfnN0Ld77QTBc73epzT1482oDioOaX1gPSqZfJ3Z7oo0NSbFqsSGhHSh9l_QCpqB8bW7xCmSIHz2KKbNItFesZ6w3QGYIykfm9-bTcFN/s400/atphoto_gallery_map_763_164_15229614055381957847051.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emerald Bay, Catalina</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-18315344305168106452018-02-01T07:56:00.000-05:002018-02-01T07:57:16.491-05:00Shade Swamp Sanctuary<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikDEA552aloa0L7e2tVQTmPTH9eLe2n7WBmx4hb2gYOE5p_eytY0VnopZgVjly0M6MAqaMEqswHoiHNJ4or6oezqBa4FjYj-d9Z0w722blK62k5OQAgDsCiEdYz8UTIsUVAzdBi4UNyIkE/s1600/IMG_6834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="973" data-original-width="1600" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikDEA552aloa0L7e2tVQTmPTH9eLe2n7WBmx4hb2gYOE5p_eytY0VnopZgVjly0M6MAqaMEqswHoiHNJ4or6oezqBa4FjYj-d9Z0w722blK62k5OQAgDsCiEdYz8UTIsUVAzdBi4UNyIkE/s400/IMG_6834.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I signed a contract to write my first two books for Lerner! So, I've been hard at work on them. My goal is to get one first draft done by the end of this week. One more chapter and some sidebars and I'll meet that deadline.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijN2wuxmvmaqAJPr31rNkf-6SM2Bv9828YW1XsvFTNv3mILON1MD0ck6wvyXViLBZ8EsgLSShQxn4HYDq70UiF25Wief0453XvDR22fdqfBxJW4NRXMxRGLiPfLtXPG0NEIWjnISR6F34X/s1600/IMG_6808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1004" data-original-width="1600" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijN2wuxmvmaqAJPr31rNkf-6SM2Bv9828YW1XsvFTNv3mILON1MD0ck6wvyXViLBZ8EsgLSShQxn4HYDq70UiF25Wief0453XvDR22fdqfBxJW4NRXMxRGLiPfLtXPG0NEIWjnISR6F34X/s400/IMG_6808.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The zoo started out as a sanctuary for injured birds and other animals.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A couple of weeks ago, I went to <a href="http://www.farmington-ct.org/home/showdocument?id=3577">Shade Swamp Sanctuary</a> in Farmington, Connecticut. It's unusual because it's the site of an abandoned zoo. I wouldn't want to do this hike when mosquitoes are buzzing about, but during the spring it might be a great place to view wetland birds.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nDMxA8Jm97zKPlFV1RlX-ZVZsGximzCooj8hv8RgmN6HZhpuKYjqjIWERYq2Z2AAmht48cmTx9ybTKYs75Wev1Eay11wb81giG9IdgFVTv4Qxq5HId9BEhRWu-XpNk5xCeEmD0Iu-gPI/s1600/IMG_6807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nDMxA8Jm97zKPlFV1RlX-ZVZsGximzCooj8hv8RgmN6HZhpuKYjqjIWERYq2Z2AAmht48cmTx9ybTKYs75Wev1Eay11wb81giG9IdgFVTv4Qxq5HId9BEhRWu-XpNk5xCeEmD0Iu-gPI/s400/IMG_6807.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> I believe these are bobcat tracks cutting across the frozen swamp. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRNvj_306pgNGuFt49zoACx6lWQ4iw8fJRgcEWNpfxS6b9L0FGFlFp_9TQaxrRnr1rZUjCHTsdQenzigh6INtnvEc1trsjRhpty6fDCgu8ZpcaC7lmPvxsWRr6Zhb6lPy-GsYFk21Ona2r/s1600/IMG_6809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRNvj_306pgNGuFt49zoACx6lWQ4iw8fJRgcEWNpfxS6b9L0FGFlFp_9TQaxrRnr1rZUjCHTsdQenzigh6INtnvEc1trsjRhpty6fDCgu8ZpcaC7lmPvxsWRr6Zhb6lPy-GsYFk21Ona2r/s400/IMG_6809.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-19649242230165697952017-11-19T18:51:00.002-05:002017-11-20T14:14:47.531-05:00Agent-Editor Day <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCXvIaA6nKJnY-c9wR5IkP-hO0KXrfDIxAAU8aDs2cIp1Q2sLhzs-6BaiDNnwvfKljse9qpDzMP8YHMUNckcrpH6qYaFFsvSkCC7sCmDeE-CvCadq-5dUE0HXrCsldTawusFlTc6D51sLh/s1600/IMG_6693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCXvIaA6nKJnY-c9wR5IkP-hO0KXrfDIxAAU8aDs2cIp1Q2sLhzs-6BaiDNnwvfKljse9qpDzMP8YHMUNckcrpH6qYaFFsvSkCC7sCmDeE-CvCadq-5dUE0HXrCsldTawusFlTc6D51sLh/s400/IMG_6693.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ragged Mountain - Metacomet Trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In early November I drove to Devens Massachusetts for Agent-Editor Day. It was my first time attending this workshop and by the look of things, it's pretty popular. I brought two manuscripts that I thought were ready to submit. During the morning session, my manuscript was read by the person to my left. During the afternoon session, I read my own work. Critiquing was done primarily by the agent or editor that was at the table. If there was time, other writers chimed in with their thoughts.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-9f1MBIchoblai8PuORdvMZrPxfuNlOw78GgLThTjnEoMG5-2d7riF44VhSvrAR616k7QCqCTcGuwNTh74yWAVGq8jY2wnGbqY10hWId2vP2cGC7fuTJv832h8XYfMr8tH3bOpssQkfyq/s1600/IMG_6700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-9f1MBIchoblai8PuORdvMZrPxfuNlOw78GgLThTjnEoMG5-2d7riF44VhSvrAR616k7QCqCTcGuwNTh74yWAVGq8jY2wnGbqY10hWId2vP2cGC7fuTJv832h8XYfMr8tH3bOpssQkfyq/s400/IMG_6700.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this hike!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I learned that my ideas were marketable. Both the agent and editor that reviewed my work thought the concepts were good ones. However, I discovered the manuscripts that I thought were ready to roll, needed to be hauled into the shop for some small repairs. I got some great advice that I believe has improved both pieces. I was also impressed by the work of my fellow writers. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2rhX__kiLrt_btWMt4ju2R5I7Cf6qB2gDAR4dmkImeg3majpKON2uR-UNVG_TK11BAmNZG3tPNgFB5gW_hbO6kZFwTs4ucCW7eZJjjwfj0NPWmUO5rOJzs0aVXH3H1QqRIjsh5glLQEA/s1600/IMG_6701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2rhX__kiLrt_btWMt4ju2R5I7Cf6qB2gDAR4dmkImeg3majpKON2uR-UNVG_TK11BAmNZG3tPNgFB5gW_hbO6kZFwTs4ucCW7eZJjjwfj0NPWmUO5rOJzs0aVXH3H1QqRIjsh5glLQEA/s400/IMG_6701.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rock climbers scale this cliff.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you're going to this next year, here are some tips:<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Bring your best work, the stuff you think is ready to submit. You might be surprised.</li>
<li>Bring two different manuscripts. The folks that brought the same
manuscript to the morning and afternoon sessions got the same advice.</li>
<li>Pick out which manuscripts you want to bring before you register.</li>
<li>Decide who you want to sit with before you register and have a backup person ready too. You will be at your assigned tables most of the day, so there isn't much opportunity to network with the other agents and editors.</li>
<li>If you have questions about your manuscript, you can ask those after the agent/editor is done critiquing. </li>
<li>It was helpful for me to take notes while the agent/editor was speaking about my work.</li>
<li>You can also learn by listening to the critique advice given to others. </li>
</ul>
</div>
To think I've lived in this state my entire life and I've never hiked Ragged Mountain, and what a hike it was! Take the trail on the left to get to the cliffs and the scenic vistas. There are more lookouts when you reach the Metacomet Trail. I will be back. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-33187586361012720682017-09-29T21:52:00.002-04:002017-11-19T18:58:24.362-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBkmH1a5DiecRqbuhjJoOwSNLRBrj8HyDkQPg3PgYCo45VKiy-mRUcUjDPKcQn2etTpVIaZT9unfhjnXny7So_9KoLVL2434Vso6hHwEoXS0lM-QciNSWWEzjNgq9e1IsNtgTzfT2qp1IX/s1600/IMG_6363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1278" data-original-width="1600" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBkmH1a5DiecRqbuhjJoOwSNLRBrj8HyDkQPg3PgYCo45VKiy-mRUcUjDPKcQn2etTpVIaZT9unfhjnXny7So_9KoLVL2434Vso6hHwEoXS0lM-QciNSWWEzjNgq9e1IsNtgTzfT2qp1IX/s400/IMG_6363.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A blue-and-yellow macaw at the Southwick Zoo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Earlier this month, I attended <a href="http://newengland.scbwi.org/encore/">Encore</a> in the Student Union at Rhode Island College. My writing friends had raved about this one-day event, but I had never gone. Instead, I chose longer retreats and conferences, like <a href="http://scbwieasternny.weebly.com/falling-leaves.html">Falling Leaves</a> and the <a href="http://www.21cnfc.com/">21st Century Nonfiction Conference</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjXS1rIhOZDcynl7Q_gxsWiawcN9fmKoAGUQOzhcmIHjzbKjf4bN7d3sJpO4H11wxoxt73WXvKBXlI8dmyG3x6RSelr59YLvJcEuUqDTQWsJSnHeM3M-YhNnX2k0PYgAa_PHW1UGk-4fG/s1600/IMG_6408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1205" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjXS1rIhOZDcynl7Q_gxsWiawcN9fmKoAGUQOzhcmIHjzbKjf4bN7d3sJpO4H11wxoxt73WXvKBXlI8dmyG3x6RSelr59YLvJcEuUqDTQWsJSnHeM3M-YhNnX2k0PYgAa_PHW1UGk-4fG/s400/IMG_6408.JPG" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a rare white Bengal tiger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At Encore, I sat at one table throughout the event and listened to five author-presenters. They were all great speakers with a wealth of knowledge to share. I scribbled character traits on Post-it notes, completed writing exercises, listened to revision techniques, and delved into numerous ways to add emotion to a manuscript. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhit6nJ_pMnJU6EttfU3taf99ZoYUOXM167ui1XAZ2x4djlK0d-Yyobl156pXzGNeSVwBRi5JCKF0zm7eid_37hX2O2-wMENKXh1_8G3zGGiUpaqCM3M6dCXwKHRySkJG0PBFqq6luXRcBi/s1600/IMG_6366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1348" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhit6nJ_pMnJU6EttfU3taf99ZoYUOXM167ui1XAZ2x4djlK0d-Yyobl156pXzGNeSVwBRi5JCKF0zm7eid_37hX2O2-wMENKXh1_8G3zGGiUpaqCM3M6dCXwKHRySkJG0PBFqq6luXRcBi/s400/IMG_6366.JPG" width="336" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turkey</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1x-DbLXhrfLYh_x2O-tcxBUxg9OKjOXfNZpFCU2XZ3AqvDlUMUeRwQfnkz3mPrHPPjcXakK_UYVXXK7WiZUFg2sMQmSfMmBV4ULFfkPtEjZ0AA8UpMpq6jXJddjFPrpcn2rRw9Uiumop_/s1600/IMG_6356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1149" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1x-DbLXhrfLYh_x2O-tcxBUxg9OKjOXfNZpFCU2XZ3AqvDlUMUeRwQfnkz3mPrHPPjcXakK_UYVXXK7WiZUFg2sMQmSfMmBV4ULFfkPtEjZ0AA8UpMpq6jXJddjFPrpcn2rRw9Uiumop_/s400/IMG_6356.JPG" width="284" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two-toed sloth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The buffet was also excellent. Overall, I found that Encore was an affordable way to connect with other writers and to advance my writing skills. <br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-12302651264573896612017-08-14T18:04:00.000-04:002017-08-14T18:44:21.344-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGe6LjZDJMJp9q_njDJnYBFlXM2HA9mlcGKPDoMhIjLO_eKzOwzFku1y2S5Od23_k4P9rv_3_ZEpawZlp-ec3YYMQnxiV_SzgOCUIJbiUJrNAnwnF6ZR4LtxAaumyg_zqHm1ImpcGIvYTz/s1600/IMG_6505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1322" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGe6LjZDJMJp9q_njDJnYBFlXM2HA9mlcGKPDoMhIjLO_eKzOwzFku1y2S5Od23_k4P9rv_3_ZEpawZlp-ec3YYMQnxiV_SzgOCUIJbiUJrNAnwnF6ZR4LtxAaumyg_zqHm1ImpcGIvYTz/s400/IMG_6505.JPG" width="330" /></a></div>
One thing I did this summer that has boosted my productivity and organization skills was to switch from a freebie Hallmark calendar to a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/PlanAhead-Bigger-Month-Planner-July/dp/B01MRDBZET/ref=pd_sim_229_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01MRDBZET&pd_rd_r=HTKT665JMJDA1FXJRDPN&pd_rd_w=DQYrY&pd_rd_wg=ahvw1&psc=1&refRID=HTKT665JMJDA1FXJRDPN">planner</a> that spans one and a half years. Now, I have plenty of room to jot down multiple tasks. I have found that when I write it down, it gets done. It was well worth the few dollars I paid for it. At the end of every day, I look at my list and smile at all the things I've accomplished. It has also reduced those writing ruts--the kind that used to swallow me up and leave me wondering why I bother.<br />
<br />
Last week, I took a day off and went to the <a href="http://southwickszoo.com/">Southwick Zoo</a>. It's fascinating to watch the animals. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWL2Fg0k3iHnlmyriFqJNmWunJMRn4RTdr43pLVSepfqgLN73Aa4dmPaqvexsJDLjNWrcLajWHY62lTZwfaUyyVm7_n146OypSD1bRX2GUI18UxoV26JLt3vVnJ8jEkf7tmwMSJF33F0I/s1600/IMG_6359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWL2Fg0k3iHnlmyriFqJNmWunJMRn4RTdr43pLVSepfqgLN73Aa4dmPaqvexsJDLjNWrcLajWHY62lTZwfaUyyVm7_n146OypSD1bRX2GUI18UxoV26JLt3vVnJ8jEkf7tmwMSJF33F0I/s400/IMG_6359.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">chimp</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9zcP1Wh4H5b0srwQF2PVQ4Mz_k5UC1y600sJl1njDn99ofCnsdlCQtwqVOsUc5b8WKYs_6B6AwnCtT989C1rCYmUlGwhP44TI1GT6hQs6wPJcLj3F1eQjHsj9vQvjAf9fJpPlRQjlpkud/s1600/IMG_6402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1199" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9zcP1Wh4H5b0srwQF2PVQ4Mz_k5UC1y600sJl1njDn99ofCnsdlCQtwqVOsUc5b8WKYs_6B6AwnCtT989C1rCYmUlGwhP44TI1GT6hQs6wPJcLj3F1eQjHsj9vQvjAf9fJpPlRQjlpkud/s400/IMG_6402.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I stopped by the tiger and lion cages numerous times because they were sleeping. Finally, the Bengal tiger woke up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03KyPYWi2rjQ5zy31G6RurQM5bELhSoxuKEJOc9OAcqRoGWfCOG4FWBheUDCTIrBm0RW_yyvW3uHNls1h5sRi9qgLpevH5Dmr3hT4hm0aTIYKzzYWvvSyagv39QyHs_yBnuuaRT7h60YH/s1600/IMG_6325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1358" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03KyPYWi2rjQ5zy31G6RurQM5bELhSoxuKEJOc9OAcqRoGWfCOG4FWBheUDCTIrBm0RW_yyvW3uHNls1h5sRi9qgLpevH5Dmr3hT4hm0aTIYKzzYWvvSyagv39QyHs_yBnuuaRT7h60YH/s400/IMG_6325.JPG" width="338" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A grad student told me this young male and his dad were play fighting</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNLPMojiKx1TAmuXn0ebEEmDURVKrmKJohd9_jv5JTcW2HesfUIKXUXImNcO_PruOtlnljvSu6roJc2FTBko60ni8CAMapLqUECNhXMWry6j3l59ygCE0KTSeGzoR055V4Yr-y5hZrqQ7/s1600/IMG_6382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1397" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNLPMojiKx1TAmuXn0ebEEmDURVKrmKJohd9_jv5JTcW2HesfUIKXUXImNcO_PruOtlnljvSu6roJc2FTBko60ni8CAMapLqUECNhXMWry6j3l59ygCE0KTSeGzoR055V4Yr-y5hZrqQ7/s400/IMG_6382.JPG" width="348" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A parakeet landed on my hand!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-60397425452346216982017-06-10T19:49:00.001-04:002017-06-10T19:49:35.823-04:00Picacho Peak, Arizona <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrXweY_eSKsNpcKdGYYzxQtDtmdQSbre2u4MobeJlOFWShVJhk_DvRS16hnvb3HUjbq4qbUHNqfA6WLHIvFDQA7I3SP15xoOPpWv4AxwhXHCXzCn-i8Gl3De4mzjgrGjbzLYGwPzYHuVH/s1600/IMG_5700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrXweY_eSKsNpcKdGYYzxQtDtmdQSbre2u4MobeJlOFWShVJhk_DvRS16hnvb3HUjbq4qbUHNqfA6WLHIvFDQA7I3SP15xoOPpWv4AxwhXHCXzCn-i8Gl3De4mzjgrGjbzLYGwPzYHuVH/s400/IMG_5700.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picacho Peak (taken from the car while on the highway)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm astonished at how much time has passed since I last posted. Right now, I'm busy writing passages and line items for a major test. The process is taking longer than I expected, but the amount of work has doubled. What started out as chemistry and physics work has now grown to include Earth science and biology. The work requires some thinking, but creativity is sorely lacking. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhSW0PZvkjGynS6r8HHN9Nn6KYr6UtLShiOmg8JtWH2fgLv7FFJ8ah-GXGLekmm_JoOdnHMK6oPEvg5lJPgB6eu-VdpixdmRjwOY1nrxfR-RCu93UScLOu-BjbCHK1yS3bkYd99M7Jke4/s1600/IMG_5702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhSW0PZvkjGynS6r8HHN9Nn6KYr6UtLShiOmg8JtWH2fgLv7FFJ8ah-GXGLekmm_JoOdnHMK6oPEvg5lJPgB6eu-VdpixdmRjwOY1nrxfR-RCu93UScLOu-BjbCHK1yS3bkYd99M7Jke4/s400/IMG_5702.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cables got progressively more challenging.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3YnQZ6bpFAYmiZmylw6sXN59raUMEH94IblhHB2nmZvnqR3Bi_YMX756yFc4hsbkD7iQhnW9HC8XCErHxeSiWFNKlJCYYJGXBVyssWM2Cw3_xCr1GleQv-iScKge_6H_GOq8pE0dQ1EDb/s1600/IMG_2588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3YnQZ6bpFAYmiZmylw6sXN59raUMEH94IblhHB2nmZvnqR3Bi_YMX756yFc4hsbkD7iQhnW9HC8XCErHxeSiWFNKlJCYYJGXBVyssWM2Cw3_xCr1GleQv-iScKge_6H_GOq8pE0dQ1EDb/s400/IMG_2588.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's getting a little steeper. Gloves are recommended for this hike.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In April, I volunteered at the New England SCBWI Conference and two days later, I attended it. I'm so glad I went. It was nice reconnecting with the gang from Falling Leaves and with a science writer I met at the AAAS conference in Boston this past February. It was even nicer getting a long list of editors and agents I could submit to.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZqJIQDCCvIQ6so74MrYwoVw8HwWRzkajlK-B5eUzUa0h-y_5QFBEWlgN7MmEtC1iN-lrBr4qiaXy1zWLZR5QtBuaweYj8olQp6-GobLSi897RcK4Qrnyo9bsTZRbeJ9rrT82JHNVpeQPS/s1600/IMG_2592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZqJIQDCCvIQ6so74MrYwoVw8HwWRzkajlK-B5eUzUa0h-y_5QFBEWlgN7MmEtC1iN-lrBr4qiaXy1zWLZR5QtBuaweYj8olQp6-GobLSi897RcK4Qrnyo9bsTZRbeJ9rrT82JHNVpeQPS/s400/IMG_2592.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was insane! I was trembling a little bit here. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmCLSNSQuevAIncqjI0DMU4Kztf8UcNjqC9IOtMZe-PJ_vBwbjbv5Pr83fdqYT2Dsfudj9kvZxKUwudU0oBnSDiAWWQhMdcfnkRo-ORn53Avjs_8xIghWzvexnyHv1DObS3Jdi4hZCwGN/s1600/IMG_2594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmCLSNSQuevAIncqjI0DMU4Kztf8UcNjqC9IOtMZe-PJ_vBwbjbv5Pr83fdqYT2Dsfudj9kvZxKUwudU0oBnSDiAWWQhMdcfnkRo-ORn53Avjs_8xIghWzvexnyHv1DObS3Jdi4hZCwGN/s400/IMG_2594.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the way down, a gust of wind swept my new sunhat off my head. I ventured beyond the cable to retrieve it (scary). </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I was in Arizona in March, we hiked Picacho Peak. Someone from town suggested it and said he loved that hike. I read up on it before going, so I knew it was going to be a challenge (understatement). In the top photo, you hike up on the left side until you reach the cliff wall. Then you trek to the right and go up and over the middle (the saddle). To climb the peak, you hike it from the back and end up on the left peak. Sounds simple (laughs). Walt called this the most hazardous hike we've ever done. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1AFJ_-QvW0eHAwbWgdH1EDm0yoskDPCVLofvnZPlzICZ1KkHKJSGyd12BDQyu5UNmX-uuowgVeU9ptR0YFDF5EY7YLfl-GdCV-trvF5v8HtvxkXDoHQRSwLaWSsr1_wbBWthcMgot2Rk2/s1600/IMG_2591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="1600" height="86" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1AFJ_-QvW0eHAwbWgdH1EDm0yoskDPCVLofvnZPlzICZ1KkHKJSGyd12BDQyu5UNmX-uuowgVeU9ptR0YFDF5EY7YLfl-GdCV-trvF5v8HtvxkXDoHQRSwLaWSsr1_wbBWthcMgot2Rk2/s400/IMG_2591.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a gorgeous view!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-79266978009090601832017-03-25T20:37:00.000-04:002017-03-26T12:28:45.719-04:00Grand Canyon - South Rim<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-37HsfLL1TVYPe486r-KbZ9qmtz8oTm2YWTgsNCwPEgDyaPD89Tkeqh7j3sPmorfekOe_yZDQv2xSLSMVwQPoQs7Fl8QdtGf1HVkK1MkppUcXByORUUIBveKd_A8ZZoWYyKqi3a03GNW/s1600/IMG_5804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-37HsfLL1TVYPe486r-KbZ9qmtz8oTm2YWTgsNCwPEgDyaPD89Tkeqh7j3sPmorfekOe_yZDQv2xSLSMVwQPoQs7Fl8QdtGf1HVkK1MkppUcXByORUUIBveKd_A8ZZoWYyKqi3a03GNW/s400/IMG_5804.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">South Kaibab Trail head</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At the top of the South Kaibab Trail, in the frigid morning air, I passed a woman who seemed petrified. The upper canyon was shrouded in snow, and ice coated the first mile or so. Even though I was wearing <a href="https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000GUCDDG/ezicetractioncleats-20">stablicers</a>, I still went slow.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmEIamMKcMFimv3YeVnEFm5I4bBA_qPMUbx-wlFPLjzgfXiaRMcNmWcjAv_YBtX0vdI6Yz8DpW-UtioYX4OxgAj0cI823scfZjEsC27L1d2H1GqqHviQwjupzeLwUu6WHTEqj7SXmoEM9/s1600/IMG_5811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmEIamMKcMFimv3YeVnEFm5I4bBA_qPMUbx-wlFPLjzgfXiaRMcNmWcjAv_YBtX0vdI6Yz8DpW-UtioYX4OxgAj0cI823scfZjEsC27L1d2H1GqqHviQwjupzeLwUu6WHTEqj7SXmoEM9/s400/IMG_5811.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beyond the ice, the trail looked like this. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Fabulous vistas changed at every switchback. I was thrilled to spot the river, then the bridge across. I shot my fist in the air when we entered the tunnel before the bridge--it was level the rest of the way. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDMuc8IVc4y-05I4q16ntOaJ6yOBLV0iojDNkksfBwxkNuRjeVFy_-XuNuNV3RPFD23R5FuSVWR7Q1e_UOYmzF8BYXj_z24t_k3cIz1PvQVI5h1c9Kl0CFB7ru4rR6D2IqwxOXFjMuQCMr/s1600/IMG_5817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDMuc8IVc4y-05I4q16ntOaJ6yOBLV0iojDNkksfBwxkNuRjeVFy_-XuNuNV3RPFD23R5FuSVWR7Q1e_UOYmzF8BYXj_z24t_k3cIz1PvQVI5h1c9Kl0CFB7ru4rR6D2IqwxOXFjMuQCMr/s400/IMG_5817.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This area had a steep drop-off, so I hugged the rock wall and gave the mules the precipitous edge.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Despite seven miles of downhill, I didn't get a single blister. Not one. In the past, my feet have killed me hiking down Mount Washington, so the downhill was my biggest concern. I made three changes to my footwear: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00H4U5HIE/ref=s9_acsd_hps_bw_c_x_2_w?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-9&pf_rd_r=7PAKZ2M5NS6XS3NEH4W9&pf_rd_r=7PAKZ2M5NS6XS3NEH4W9&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=24866ec1-a4f2-4f81-a5f0-9234e354766b&pf_rd_p=24866ec1-a4f2-4f81-a5f0-9234e354766b&pf_rd_i=2593553011">new boots with a wide toe box</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Injinji-060270-GRY-S-Liner-Crew-Toesocks/dp/B00AK8C4QA">Injinji liner toe socks</a>, and <a href="https://www.hitthetrail.com/boot-lacing-technique/">boots tied for downhill hiking</a>. I also wore these <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Womens-Merino-Colorful-Hiking-Socks/dp/B00WXNB68M/ref=pd_sim_468_1?_encoding=UTF8&refRID=8WEASTJM0J6FC3BG4FH1">cushy socks</a> that my friend gave me. They were wonderfully soft.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-kz4jONunq3g6tLr3uJkAzUGel4DtVVF4j4980efaY4zOnFD4wyeLNnDEXaHSb_fP_1MTbpFoGrcGyriDQelbivls7NP_BlFKtZA82bKF3rcAu8GVBpCbs17D06q3LbXvGF1h6TI9mqST/s1600/IMG_5824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-kz4jONunq3g6tLr3uJkAzUGel4DtVVF4j4980efaY4zOnFD4wyeLNnDEXaHSb_fP_1MTbpFoGrcGyriDQelbivls7NP_BlFKtZA82bKF3rcAu8GVBpCbs17D06q3LbXvGF1h6TI9mqST/s400/IMG_5824.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch with a view of the river. Phantom Ranch is on the right.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Phantom Ranch was nestled under an oasis of trees across the Colorado River. I was lucky to get a reservation at one of the few cabins at the ranch. One couple had brought their baby all the way down to the bottom of the canyon. The young woman planned to carry her 16-pound bundle uphill, and that pack wasn't going to get any lighter.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCAPftI154MlgPuu6aMml3nQ6CBsYJqGKohKCyDtlku1OufEjO9axRtxfNVT24s0yfsmL1K8jnmW5GQIkWuRJsfNq9MBB_APOcfSdyDatbJ-NYNOqDv033a_oKKPOEKO37dlqqRCLCXVmJ/s1600/IMG_5829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCAPftI154MlgPuu6aMml3nQ6CBsYJqGKohKCyDtlku1OufEjO9axRtxfNVT24s0yfsmL1K8jnmW5GQIkWuRJsfNq9MBB_APOcfSdyDatbJ-NYNOqDv033a_oKKPOEKO37dlqqRCLCXVmJ/s400/IMG_5829.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Across the river, the trail goes left to the ranch.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I wore shorts on the 10-mile uphill hike. It energized me in temperatures that hovered around 50<span class="st">°F</span>. On the first mile or so, the Bright Angel Trail was sandy and followed the river. Eventually, the trail wound its way uphill inside a canyon. Slick ice greeted me at the top.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWLVzUnblliE-4Uu-d5Xa8zSh1O1uwmVcATikZ-0b8NYavaClIFUsXECoRNWOLZB41lJ3xPFwdX4AsT3IuSCZ8J9yBF9iZdt4gLzxaSNT1mWrwimcRlfbNb-aMcsV0-6gnL8s9HNwQviLm/s1600/IMG_5846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWLVzUnblliE-4Uu-d5Xa8zSh1O1uwmVcATikZ-0b8NYavaClIFUsXECoRNWOLZB41lJ3xPFwdX4AsT3IuSCZ8J9yBF9iZdt4gLzxaSNT1mWrwimcRlfbNb-aMcsV0-6gnL8s9HNwQviLm/s400/IMG_5846.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">suspension bridge on the Bright Angel Trail </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHypal8ZS8FqqbfJ3QgNXd_MQKti6H9afxeh-nbx_kSBN-HaKIjoBe_pT8B519k-ZdsfSvWlxJ4JJQ_ZzGOTTLoyX2WcVu7X__L9miAHJvT1jJyH8GgoQM5cYs-UFMYMdCmIGCBpMrZxNL/s1600/IMG_5847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHypal8ZS8FqqbfJ3QgNXd_MQKti6H9afxeh-nbx_kSBN-HaKIjoBe_pT8B519k-ZdsfSvWlxJ4JJQ_ZzGOTTLoyX2WcVu7X__L9miAHJvT1jJyH8GgoQM5cYs-UFMYMdCmIGCBpMrZxNL/s400/IMG_5847.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As I crossed the Colorado River, morning sunlight gave the canyon a golden glow.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW-46YVMRHXNR92qaxF0dEn8U19YdkqCrcd0_qy5vQMnDJRAhmcqC95_kAxdGCDXcHUhiqedmCWS1a5sa0e7Qtm6qZKB4i9oOuaqz-NL9hrAzhpp1Hi2-5ZmRF6YUe-f7t83FZM0mSM1rE/s1600/IMG_5873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW-46YVMRHXNR92qaxF0dEn8U19YdkqCrcd0_qy5vQMnDJRAhmcqC95_kAxdGCDXcHUhiqedmCWS1a5sa0e7Qtm6qZKB4i9oOuaqz-NL9hrAzhpp1Hi2-5ZmRF6YUe-f7t83FZM0mSM1rE/s400/IMG_5873.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The top of the Bright Angel Trail was a bit hazardous. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Overall, the hike was a phenomenal experience, but the time flew by too fast. It was a lot easier than I had expected. What I found challenging was balancing a writing deadline and an active vacation. With most jobs, you leave your work behind. I brought mine with me. The plane ride gave me a long stretch of time to get immersed in my work and accomplish enough to put my mind at ease. When I returned, I put aside the unpacking until my article was close to finished. </div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-65625310647250947872017-01-25T10:48:00.000-05:002017-01-25T10:56:51.475-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6B1Kb8HY2ZLtrvYJAof4PJ3b_hYxBKRoMaVaxcmvpz9MRlPVBmDKBZ6tMkfhTdfl94kvSb3iJUly_xd2o58DdWBxaPpHsT-_1-gJxKqZK4v18b2xBEUlNW9jhT5fZEfo4SUpcOmiqta31/s1600/IMG_5651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6B1Kb8HY2ZLtrvYJAof4PJ3b_hYxBKRoMaVaxcmvpz9MRlPVBmDKBZ6tMkfhTdfl94kvSb3iJUly_xd2o58DdWBxaPpHsT-_1-gJxKqZK4v18b2xBEUlNW9jhT5fZEfo4SUpcOmiqta31/s400/IMG_5651.JPG" width="345" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This yellow brain fungus was delicate, like a flower.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've started 2017 with a flurry of webinars--I registered for five. I like webinars. They're inexpensive ways to learn. They cut down on carbon emissions and offer flexibility. If the time doesn't work for me, I'll get a link to the recording and listen later at a more convenient time. Often, participants get the opportunity to ask questions, but admittedly, I never have. At a recent webinar, I was pleasantly surprised to discover I got the opportunity to submit!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBKaDbbgChDgJoLsrNEyk5N7-z8ar_Vn9zqH-nvsqw85GAnfIX3VW5l8osjPMReVmSlYPvHwsPrrguT5lB4BOA4j1Bm2wy_2aZ_cKVCGY3-dvXKVOjbFtRiHWg9h-ERuDtoFlwGWVAvNV/s1600/IMG_5655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBKaDbbgChDgJoLsrNEyk5N7-z8ar_Vn9zqH-nvsqw85GAnfIX3VW5l8osjPMReVmSlYPvHwsPrrguT5lB4BOA4j1Bm2wy_2aZ_cKVCGY3-dvXKVOjbFtRiHWg9h-ERuDtoFlwGWVAvNV/s400/IMG_5655.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The remains of an old quarry reminded me of Greek architecture (purple trail).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On the science front, I went to a <a href="http://www.realartways.org/film/science-screen/">Science on Screen</a> documentary that was fascinating. The event had sold out, but a generous man gave me a free ticket and he wouldn't take any money! At that price, I'm planning to go again next month (laughs). I also want to see Elizabeth Kolbert at UConn in early February. I used to drive to campus to see the Teale lectures, but now I watch most of those at home (except for Kolbert's).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE9N5N6evOX7gXcTNcHIAca4_YblUUW3E5Y1q9-qFXdaIzT8fx20uKht4Jy34tSC9F0aBSqIdbDtGS9u371sTBrtBf3nd6rqUf9uzbfo7nyXmYiG47oWL2dE-EH4otrhmJHHs1ShI6iQHH/s1600/IMG_5653.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE9N5N6evOX7gXcTNcHIAca4_YblUUW3E5Y1q9-qFXdaIzT8fx20uKht4Jy34tSC9F0aBSqIdbDtGS9u371sTBrtBf3nd6rqUf9uzbfo7nyXmYiG47oWL2dE-EH4otrhmJHHs1ShI6iQHH/s640/IMG_5653.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's a guy in a white shirt a little more than halfway up this trap rock ridge.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I took these photographs at Sleeping Giant State Park in Hamden, Connecticut. In the past, I've taken the easy crushed gravel path to the tower. This time, we climbed up and down ridges via the blue trail, which is rated difficult. The recent rain made some rocks slick. The dog had trouble in spots, so we had to help her up some of the steeper sections. On the way back we took the easier purple trail, which was fairly level. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoX9iSRUoxMQZKaE1zzr7s2yrDSuVUouAzHAeaGxtgOcJ_jHz3IKogBWBIhWZfy1OVPAbr6dFi_5Qc56JG98XFuKHAm9mbHO-ze_VcU4AfImurLsaZOayJQ9MGFTvMkjXDjT4vy89vpe5S/s1600/IMG_5650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoX9iSRUoxMQZKaE1zzr7s2yrDSuVUouAzHAeaGxtgOcJ_jHz3IKogBWBIhWZfy1OVPAbr6dFi_5Qc56JG98XFuKHAm9mbHO-ze_VcU4AfImurLsaZOayJQ9MGFTvMkjXDjT4vy89vpe5S/s640/IMG_5650.JPG" width="441" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The blue trail took us atop the ridge to the giant's head.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br /></div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-36940516724075213012016-11-14T19:04:00.000-05:002016-11-14T19:05:44.242-05:00Falling Leaves 2016 <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLYiIO8yZeg-CJJUSPvczKAVexEUGkMafvueWUbAWHpfqlHJJXfbnzgIjeIqgstSeP9RjC-Zvc2cobZs8QQBNzxIYy9zXrLc3UpLCBffS6J7XpysPIsAzeoxpJ-LnbQcKzxZzXfqbF1Q8W/s1600/IMG_5411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLYiIO8yZeg-CJJUSPvczKAVexEUGkMafvueWUbAWHpfqlHJJXfbnzgIjeIqgstSeP9RjC-Zvc2cobZs8QQBNzxIYy9zXrLc3UpLCBffS6J7XpysPIsAzeoxpJ-LnbQcKzxZzXfqbF1Q8W/s400/IMG_5411.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the hotel where we slept.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I had a fantastic time at the Falling Leaves Writing Retreat on the shore of Lake George, New York. Last year, I enjoyed this retreat too, but due to the circumstances, I wanted to be alone, I went to bed early, and at times I fought back tears. This year, I went to bed late, I wanted to socialize, and I laughed--a lot. I was pleasantly surprised to find the gorgeous fall foliage was still on the trees, an added bonus. On Saturday, we had a four-hour block of time that included a critique. I revised a manuscript for half of it and went for a walk for the other half.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7DU_zxrpJP0VHETWLx1dvfyF0LVuvM4g5C1pOQPa4wz98yqh9C-rIj-v630w87wKW3fvTDI8IwGE4rAmYPUc8LVUm_iAKhIZXpIoW0zKfZRqC_awW28M6_KY44MJ74KAuUIvpseFG9WFg/s1600/IMG_5409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7DU_zxrpJP0VHETWLx1dvfyF0LVuvM4g5C1pOQPa4wz98yqh9C-rIj-v630w87wKW3fvTDI8IwGE4rAmYPUc8LVUm_iAKhIZXpIoW0zKfZRqC_awW28M6_KY44MJ74KAuUIvpseFG9WFg/s400/IMG_5409.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from the front porch of the hotel.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Lisa Rush and I stuck out our thumbs and hitched a ride with the elderly golf cart driver, named Roger. We had a blast! He shared some venison jerky with us and drove us to an area that we didn't realize was part of the grounds. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oj875YVXv8Y69wlsejU9Vr6sVcgVSirCQ4RYCQdaRsCyNg8xhsrtnoIvzdO5tpHC_0Ldm9opOuBkgRznu2-XRST9cx3tNioFu5ixHGhikyyRQqV3_r4vm4iI9OTD1Sze4GbzIHtJhwfU/s1600/IMG_5415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oj875YVXv8Y69wlsejU9Vr6sVcgVSirCQ4RYCQdaRsCyNg8xhsrtnoIvzdO5tpHC_0Ldm9opOuBkgRznu2-XRST9cx3tNioFu5ixHGhikyyRQqV3_r4vm4iI9OTD1Sze4GbzIHtJhwfU/s400/IMG_5415.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We devoured brownies and roasted marshmallows at the Saturday night bonfire.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The week before I left for this retreat, I fell into a writing rut after receiving two rejections on the same manuscript. I started thinking about the holidays, the memories, and the hole that will never be filled. I had the attitude that I was paying a lot of money for five lottery tickets, one from each editor. After hearing a couple of retreat success stories and meeting so many published writers, I came home hopeful. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6nM_feQKxPe-owBmczFw5p9EmppsHMLzkaPzs5WrSLgZiFqxqTO8TiMBZge71QjkQ9sE-3lErySVGQkCqK6bm-F7iwO0ZwD6BbA6joE6BOYHNEh7JXUcSjIB4yP41CMIZBOGnXoPFG0PB/s1600/IMG_5421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6nM_feQKxPe-owBmczFw5p9EmppsHMLzkaPzs5WrSLgZiFqxqTO8TiMBZge71QjkQ9sE-3lErySVGQkCqK6bm-F7iwO0ZwD6BbA6joE6BOYHNEh7JXUcSjIB4yP41CMIZBOGnXoPFG0PB/s400/IMG_5421.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lisa Schnell, Chris Mihaly, Mary Kay Carson, Alisha Gabriel </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was impressed by the caliber of the attendees. Many had published books. These photographs were taken during the last 15-20 minutes of the retreat. "Smile, like you've bonded!" <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3KAqHjKkX2y4_yq3br_40QFF4Y_MXERyB76q1uf2ZFZzENvnoDGvjWKGwdUm7JsHVwJQcGlIrH7-hHYM9Z-LnrPHwSQVfeOX8TsiUKcoKa5FRvNlvJeM62Y0os5eG_Blba56EKGC9bda0/s1600/IMG_5419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3KAqHjKkX2y4_yq3br_40QFF4Y_MXERyB76q1uf2ZFZzENvnoDGvjWKGwdUm7JsHVwJQcGlIrH7-hHYM9Z-LnrPHwSQVfeOX8TsiUKcoKa5FRvNlvJeM62Y0os5eG_Blba56EKGC9bda0/s400/IMG_5419.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda Marshall, Susannah Buhrman-Deever</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy_otcCK6XVajY3srL9D2epNYjrqf4LeD9D2r_s7EL2OprnAvdgoT2q9JZkWsh0Y8WXwm0F2D_LMDoxYsZFqBVueyHQI1cPY68SDJPq601JhltwtS1r9Z7vZFhb6Dp_7jGTJIx6UGaO9-d/s1600/IMG_5416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy_otcCK6XVajY3srL9D2epNYjrqf4LeD9D2r_s7EL2OprnAvdgoT2q9JZkWsh0Y8WXwm0F2D_LMDoxYsZFqBVueyHQI1cPY68SDJPq601JhltwtS1r9Z7vZFhb6Dp_7jGTJIx6UGaO9-d/s400/IMG_5416.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lisa Hladish-Rush, Angela Calabrese, Annie Kuhn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidOhNy7N6AzNtzipbZrj96euZnplNp4p8UO1CNO7nT-tnOQ38u7aFdl9rOD51iOA9nMPV72T81GINcxLQhkhcOQCesQbk1E3RZWF3YLiAm0XlZ38Xn8IrHBdns7PfG2AElY8RNim2uDOS1/s1600/IMG_5422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidOhNy7N6AzNtzipbZrj96euZnplNp4p8UO1CNO7nT-tnOQ38u7aFdl9rOD51iOA9nMPV72T81GINcxLQhkhcOQCesQbk1E3RZWF3YLiAm0XlZ38Xn8IrHBdns7PfG2AElY8RNim2uDOS1/s400/IMG_5422.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sue Heavenrich, Marie Sanderson and her husband, Annie Kuhn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nTm8oDZIWY54nXD9fKgNLuIuVsZ5e_NYqYU3tGqh-oFjhd1kqIf8t9AV5ckGPvjj-l90XAeEgpiWoM7wMNO3EwIxJjrCqRn3UIYr6EHgKiO_l_dLBxI_jF7lkqseh-WpAuUz5MZNet-A/s1600/IMG_5423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nTm8oDZIWY54nXD9fKgNLuIuVsZ5e_NYqYU3tGqh-oFjhd1kqIf8t9AV5ckGPvjj-l90XAeEgpiWoM7wMNO3EwIxJjrCqRn3UIYr6EHgKiO_l_dLBxI_jF7lkqseh-WpAuUz5MZNet-A/s400/IMG_5423.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Becky Loescher, Carolyn Scoppettone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-6639990402264869602016-10-13T16:55:00.000-04:002016-10-13T17:10:13.393-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<iframe frameborder="0" height="600" src="https://vine.co/v/5XdqTHUz2lQ/embed/simple?audio=1" width="600"></iframe><script src="https://platform.vine.co/static/scripts/embed.js"></script><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQSoJ-GYCW3AjdpWg8WUdkDwkQVkIbD2hBTVrRM35r_taCw-0O9TjouBgxAHN6YvkhwGWz-A7ZlE6DSK6H4jfxbS5oBnBNi3-RDN0bogaeM55nR6BpRYj7_VP446ZEWxOI-jpO6L0QQuq/s1600/whale1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQSoJ-GYCW3AjdpWg8WUdkDwkQVkIbD2hBTVrRM35r_taCw-0O9TjouBgxAHN6YvkhwGWz-A7ZlE6DSK6H4jfxbS5oBnBNi3-RDN0bogaeM55nR6BpRYj7_VP446ZEWxOI-jpO6L0QQuq/s400/whale1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Yesterday, out in Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, the humpback whales were spouting, splashing, and slapping their tails as they fed in the nutrient-rich waters. We encountered several associations of whales and at least one calf. I'd go out again in a heartbeat. It was awesome!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_3O7XL4aCnNgzM_dtguSJ34OfJMr8FuZXAQK1fJKV7DSv5xpvQUZQqWj_Zvm8uIukJmGeIKhcHOgRsavp180fdOi92VgZEBJFOBqogr4eHY62PJCldQcC3mpnAluUdhyphenhyphenxV2fi5I5W6k0/s1600/whale4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_3O7XL4aCnNgzM_dtguSJ34OfJMr8FuZXAQK1fJKV7DSv5xpvQUZQqWj_Zvm8uIukJmGeIKhcHOgRsavp180fdOi92VgZEBJFOBqogr4eHY62PJCldQcC3mpnAluUdhyphenhyphenxV2fi5I5W6k0/s400/whale4.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The calf is in the foreground.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I've been working on a couple of articles for the February and March issues of <i>MUSE</i>. I also delved deeper into social media with new accounts on Instagram and Vine. In early November, I'm looking forward to the Falling Leaves Writing Retreat on the shore of Lake George. Last year, I learned a lot from the top-notch presentations at this retreat.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9PnOtFqPH4Wwg69G9PXydiCsL2jbVXJUlJOhW2s9DVznehlL9jSdOLARtRIJwecEFbMrQILS5Cz6cz58jpe7kDKI0_bD8RhvQyQ5U8RcPqztOHjdfIg5MufcC6WEwpyKrNBV_kd2uQ6C/s1600/whale3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9PnOtFqPH4Wwg69G9PXydiCsL2jbVXJUlJOhW2s9DVznehlL9jSdOLARtRIJwecEFbMrQILS5Cz6cz58jpe7kDKI0_bD8RhvQyQ5U8RcPqztOHjdfIg5MufcC6WEwpyKrNBV_kd2uQ6C/s400/whale3.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Humpbacks don't often lift their heads out of the water like this one.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-jd-BhyUVbTnwoYypSKAUIar4_c0QUzFyl-Hhi0LCGrk68DFh6it4xx_d4PpSfn9WgQxXAkUsgGZ92SpDMV2ot38laf8jOBOzILM6DczLa5cWm8Kne6oGTxOUasKxr9qs7TrCmuB7lNG/s1600/IMG_5299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-jd-BhyUVbTnwoYypSKAUIar4_c0QUzFyl-Hhi0LCGrk68DFh6it4xx_d4PpSfn9WgQxXAkUsgGZ92SpDMV2ot38laf8jOBOzILM6DczLa5cWm8Kne6oGTxOUasKxr9qs7TrCmuB7lNG/s400/IMG_5299.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coarse hairs on the baleen plates in their mouths filter food. They felt like plastic broom bristles. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-52862279356292644712016-08-18T19:20:00.000-04:002016-08-19T15:51:35.491-04:00Lights, Camera, Action!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixa0oLbsZUcUDmIh6yA8Jcgfd_gpqIwXxRW0Nq6qRHDRUcwK1ZGGVqZsI2fi7lwdWW3xvcfD0coNr_w4IMLuUkio93K9-9xAPVldtSdgVbzTcJruhdpCnjXdH9BP43K1WY338VqxtdNCK/s1600/IMG_5099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixa0oLbsZUcUDmIh6yA8Jcgfd_gpqIwXxRW0Nq6qRHDRUcwK1ZGGVqZsI2fi7lwdWW3xvcfD0coNr_w4IMLuUkio93K9-9xAPVldtSdgVbzTcJruhdpCnjXdH9BP43K1WY338VqxtdNCK/s400/IMG_5099.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The set</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Earlier this month, I took a "Learn to Film" class at the Community Voice Channel. The class was free and a lot of fun. During each mock interview session, we rotated jobs. At times I handled audio, which involved selecting music and muting and unmuting microphones. Other times, I prepared graphics (title of the show, host/guest names, credits) or I worked at the control board, switching camera views. I also got to be floor manager, design the set, and set up the cameras and microphones.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNfdLGScSWVK5Pg2iECCSvLBHTEDYCrcqAA7Uk73giE5Gg4T9t2z2O0oCYdQvgpb6EdbLzH7SClLAIWHI8s1c9rdgbRX0A6j1PnXwXfOYT9uQDocyoOfqKZ_rug4kil389j87ISHZ27CqT/s1600/IMG_5098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNfdLGScSWVK5Pg2iECCSvLBHTEDYCrcqAA7Uk73giE5Gg4T9t2z2O0oCYdQvgpb6EdbLzH7SClLAIWHI8s1c9rdgbRX0A6j1PnXwXfOYT9uQDocyoOfqKZ_rug4kil389j87ISHZ27CqT/s400/IMG_5098.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The control room: audio, control board, and graphics</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A director and producer came in for the last class and ran the interview with <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hkCOtL5wcLM">Cold Creek Brewery</a>. During that interview, I worked the control board. I also helped design the set, which included<br />
my beer stein from Germany.<br />
The director said, "I don't know about that green glass head. It's distracting."<br />
I said, "That's mine. I thought it was hysterical."<br />
She let it stay.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYGLmpxxy_Rhb2y-_vqUrg-agQVpWE9Wa_WTt_i6Xwz-80ZUhcn6-lAxgicw3yY9lBAkEmStzmNiwQ_v7AjbRVdCO7f5DZEJM-b3zRwIExS6GLfzaFErHi1TAgOR4f9bHWcawsNGZnBwZ8/s1600/IMG_5100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYGLmpxxy_Rhb2y-_vqUrg-agQVpWE9Wa_WTt_i6Xwz-80ZUhcn6-lAxgicw3yY9lBAkEmStzmNiwQ_v7AjbRVdCO7f5DZEJM-b3zRwIExS6GLfzaFErHi1TAgOR4f9bHWcawsNGZnBwZ8/s400/IMG_5100.JPG" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cameras were focused on the host, guest, and the scene. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjglm_ATERiXJAMeLjsxhkVWHDc81UWwWTUdBfcDXqzF950R9zC7aZvUio5dgsxvtgo7rzjXQzEqqFPdylLYvQAMlrlr6LI8Onj6yxM4Kfomwd5ne1qa1A0KX_BiJI0T2m46z2rTlzK7MMM/s1600/IMG_5117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjglm_ATERiXJAMeLjsxhkVWHDc81UWwWTUdBfcDXqzF950R9zC7aZvUio5dgsxvtgo7rzjXQzEqqFPdylLYvQAMlrlr6LI8Onj6yxM4Kfomwd5ne1qa1A0KX_BiJI0T2m46z2rTlzK7MMM/s400/IMG_5117.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1bph1xwcSF6D8SgugE_SkbmExFhMTd0yCjmw7ilPFcxm4g-xLHLWJuqRkpmAFdTSHeOXzDLQMBZJmwJckVzMBknxc7GF2JnHtvlhNnTox7bKO6tmXmnCQsobUpv5a3P6HJ_buTn06y9U/s1600/IMG_5101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1bph1xwcSF6D8SgugE_SkbmExFhMTd0yCjmw7ilPFcxm4g-xLHLWJuqRkpmAFdTSHeOXzDLQMBZJmwJckVzMBknxc7GF2JnHtvlhNnTox7bKO6tmXmnCQsobUpv5a3P6HJ_buTn06y9U/s400/IMG_5101.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">graphics for a mock interview</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju1xecUiVRGN_YlbVuPuioCZZv96scyZ1ZfyOgI7nLz7KgBs8scpL9ziCqOIWSYEQxkf5SLf7s496KY1SbsfJcrTZThdrsFFHb1IGDGmoRQu3VRSvQtbEZnStadps-2-8Z9v76YAXzDR7a/s1600/IMG_5114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju1xecUiVRGN_YlbVuPuioCZZv96scyZ1ZfyOgI7nLz7KgBs8scpL9ziCqOIWSYEQxkf5SLf7s496KY1SbsfJcrTZThdrsFFHb1IGDGmoRQu3VRSvQtbEZnStadps-2-8Z9v76YAXzDR7a/s400/IMG_5114.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm at the control board for this live interview.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
All participants of the class are allowed to use the control room, lighting, and cameras free of charge. There is also a field class that I plan to sign up for. You can take a smaller camera out into the field to do filming. The class also covers editing. I consider this another tool in my toolbox.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6FmJsLgs3uMbWbUM-mT92Cg51WC3qRYqYafdWYrVjZIbAKUbAZ2cuzsdkx6UkPePOtwCczkd8DcokahHfsM7JWBxw5HZmQbezIDNPKkksmJv9sSS6F3I_81CsJjomzelsQQrirxYiJbH/s1600/IMG_5115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6FmJsLgs3uMbWbUM-mT92Cg51WC3qRYqYafdWYrVjZIbAKUbAZ2cuzsdkx6UkPePOtwCczkd8DcokahHfsM7JWBxw5HZmQbezIDNPKkksmJv9sSS6F3I_81CsJjomzelsQQrirxYiJbH/s400/IMG_5115.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Set crew and the folks at Cold Creek Brewery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-46747233048351494352016-07-09T19:09:00.000-04:002016-07-10T08:55:26.501-04:00On Collaboration<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYdKa0gt8cY9tnb3YcAnkXEGQHHx4QZIs2IF2OQ2aftNKPnpSt25C2DXubj38bvSdp2Lcft0ni-dIGZpCrAf-UDdqmMvHBJjzKm4FgVXD5NqTZInaVDywi7QZghUALd17c5vFGcQC-mdsS/s1600/IMG_4830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYdKa0gt8cY9tnb3YcAnkXEGQHHx4QZIs2IF2OQ2aftNKPnpSt25C2DXubj38bvSdp2Lcft0ni-dIGZpCrAf-UDdqmMvHBJjzKm4FgVXD5NqTZInaVDywi7QZghUALd17c5vFGcQC-mdsS/s400/IMG_4830.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">barred owlets</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In addition to writing nonfiction, I've been collaborating with a friend on a middle grade novel. The whole idea was born from loss--an untimely tragedy and a lost job. The project was immensely helpful keeping my mind busy with constant aggressive deadlines. Last year, it was exactly what I needed. In fact, I wonder some times how deep a hole I would have sunk into without this project.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnChpjKZOxp0csPSpXyGijdT40-bKLabaO82zETqfzQcUmnMpeyMtgklG3fMjuo9j8OPLVAGEiyGyv__5ogpfbGu0IqQsCYH98BZLeCyBf16_My0-_1L_EI_h8fiUc-zV1C_pGySCWJyUc/s1600/IMG_4839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnChpjKZOxp0csPSpXyGijdT40-bKLabaO82zETqfzQcUmnMpeyMtgklG3fMjuo9j8OPLVAGEiyGyv__5ogpfbGu0IqQsCYH98BZLeCyBf16_My0-_1L_EI_h8fiUc-zV1C_pGySCWJyUc/s400/IMG_4839.JPG" width="325" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barred owl parent calling, "who cooks for you?" </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The manuscript is different than the work I've been doing. It's fiction. It's fantasy. It's funny. Last year, I didn't have much of a sense of humor, but there were times when we were laughing hysterically. Even if it never goes anywhere, the project has served an important purpose. It was a healing project and for that I am immensely thankful.</div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-72268219768351150282016-06-04T15:49:00.000-04:002016-06-04T15:52:54.234-04:00Tassy Walden Award - 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgunZSQgXgZJfzICLKA_cXJdw_sqH_SDagwgLDod9ig64ezD8RgxjDeZpkwfBpEQ_w0o7NJLWUGr59nCEyDFZZPKBzFUL1-mLLVdy3OO_GRSw1H0LwKhOK_hBgrt382AgMB6SHjHynwOPSf/s1600/IMG_4910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgunZSQgXgZJfzICLKA_cXJdw_sqH_SDagwgLDod9ig64ezD8RgxjDeZpkwfBpEQ_w0o7NJLWUGr59nCEyDFZZPKBzFUL1-mLLVdy3OO_GRSw1H0LwKhOK_hBgrt382AgMB6SHjHynwOPSf/s400/IMG_4910.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note to self: Don't read with your eyes shut!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
On Wednesday, I basked in the glow of writerly love at the Tassy Walden Award ceremony in beautiful Blackstone Library in Branford, Connecticut. It was a wonderful classy event. Lauren Miller from the Connecticut Humanities spoke about reviving the Connecticut Book Award. I had no idea it had been discontinued. I was entertained and inspired by renowned illustrator Wendell Minor. What a stellar career that man has had!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib05m4kcKxDb4ZTkeDujoZ1KBkIAQQxqjORy28XFZCYHAJdFwUtAQYeYMDDYOzWYPs_yOHuiApp08g8BkeG-kgITfpoTleNZj_UahLaqwNscI5MAbyvvKn91-eEkyF93xWMQn5wiSgTG-n/s1600/Winners%252C+CTH%252C+Doe+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib05m4kcKxDb4ZTkeDujoZ1KBkIAQQxqjORy28XFZCYHAJdFwUtAQYeYMDDYOzWYPs_yOHuiApp08g8BkeG-kgITfpoTleNZj_UahLaqwNscI5MAbyvvKn91-eEkyF93xWMQn5wiSgTG-n/s400/Winners%252C+CTH%252C+Doe+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lauren
Miller-CT Humanities, Doug Fisher-Executive Director CT Humanities,
Holly Howley (Winner Young Adult Novel), Linda Zajac (Winner Picture
Book Text), Wendell, Florence, Melanie Meehan (Winner Middle Grade
Novel), Tim Perra (Winner Illustrated Picture Book), Doe Boyle (Chair of
Tassy Walden Awards Committee), Eric Dillner, CEO/Executive Director
Shoreline Arts Alliance </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I figured I'd be speaking third. Boy, was I surprised to see my name listed first in the program. Next up was Melanie Meehan, who read her captivating middle grade chapters. Then Holly Howley followed with spot-on teen dialogue. Tim Perra had us all laughing when he presented his picture book dummy.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3DjTHo_e2j0qmAU_YQnSEUMMicfx6id1pEK8J3X7-pebS-hyVxOQT1TpESVmQVqsyFSb8iKSKQ4tMnAU53VVkfDrmBz9D_eGz0ZHh2hNgpULe9-AgQrcCFd2h6oLleU-ZsMf3x2iPZ1e/s1600/IMG_4901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3DjTHo_e2j0qmAU_YQnSEUMMicfx6id1pEK8J3X7-pebS-hyVxOQT1TpESVmQVqsyFSb8iKSKQ4tMnAU53VVkfDrmBz9D_eGz0ZHh2hNgpULe9-AgQrcCFd2h6oLleU-ZsMf3x2iPZ1e/s400/IMG_4901.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There is beautiful woodwork in this library. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I really enjoyed listening to my colleagues read their unique stories, and speaking with Marcela Staudenamier and Florence Minor. The magical evening flew by too fast.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Guilford-Shoreline-Community/Shoreline-Arts-Alliance-Events/Tassy-Walden-Awards-June-2016/i-24PfhXB/0/X2/SAA%20Tassy%20Walden%20Awards-jlb-06-01-16-4980w-X2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="© Judith L. Barbosa" border="0" height="276" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Guilford-Shoreline-Community/Shoreline-Arts-Alliance-Events/Tassy-Walden-Awards-June-2016/i-24PfhXB/0/X2/SAA%20Tassy%20Walden%20Awards-jlb-06-01-16-4980w-X2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Congratulations to all the Tassy Walden finalists and honorable mention recipients!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There aren't many opportunities for unpublished writers to shine, so I'm grateful for all that the Shoreline Arts Alliance has done to create this well-respected contest and to make the evening a special one. Salute!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlQRYWtXZ4fXrQidVnqM97QRavw5vmIk1X-HuNe-MsZQ-9lHhLOZNXI_u_SEzWef9HN_Xy-iOGkjgIK24GccfVfVywCcO9M4lTFEFe2V3E3r8XXysWdJ3eWbg6lW36QfyE4RTh_GjrM46/s1600/IMG_0919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlQRYWtXZ4fXrQidVnqM97QRavw5vmIk1X-HuNe-MsZQ-9lHhLOZNXI_u_SEzWef9HN_Xy-iOGkjgIK24GccfVfVywCcO9M4lTFEFe2V3E3r8XXysWdJ3eWbg6lW36QfyE4RTh_GjrM46/s400/IMG_0919.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-40428061135861129462016-05-05T10:42:00.002-04:002016-05-05T10:42:14.508-04:00Skype School Visit<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijevIH86y52_auW8w6N44YT2Kg0J2QUzvI2b1T1qHAlikP0rQJJTt4OQx9_2jy4Oyo8w6HMjblmMNWEwad9d6Gt6h4hQNDNvX8B9NtQTr43y1t-Q5DhoTnt52P9E-5DucvWHZ36joliqrn/s1600/IMG_4774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijevIH86y52_auW8w6N44YT2Kg0J2QUzvI2b1T1qHAlikP0rQJJTt4OQx9_2jy4Oyo8w6HMjblmMNWEwad9d6Gt6h4hQNDNvX8B9NtQTr43y1t-Q5DhoTnt52P9E-5DucvWHZ36joliqrn/s400/IMG_4774.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Yesterday, I Skyped a school in New Hampshire and did a STEAM presentation in front of two classes of fifth graders. Test runs made me leery about the "share screen" button that at times was grayed out and inaccessible. So, I downloaded the most recent version of Skype the day before the visit and everything went smoothly.<br />
<br />
I got started with this great advice...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://project-middle-grade-mayhem.blogspot.com/2016/02/deliver-successful-author-powerpoint.html">Deliver a successful PowerPoint presentation via Skype by Donna Galanti</a><br />
<br />
This was helpful... <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMex-9FyljU">how to look good on a webcam. </a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUO-Luyd7BhRMUbJ1AaEvZk59xanZMIVqzA9CAo6zj8_IYKUfvlOFtom15kaixDlL1nFUpQTXXIoXW8SILjxiQibrxSLgAG2bVdPPcx2OugxJQIkqJb9P5KIX5_I34fXMD0mJAUNJ5wgwN/s1600/IMG_4792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUO-Luyd7BhRMUbJ1AaEvZk59xanZMIVqzA9CAo6zj8_IYKUfvlOFtom15kaixDlL1nFUpQTXXIoXW8SILjxiQibrxSLgAG2bVdPPcx2OugxJQIkqJb9P5KIX5_I34fXMD0mJAUNJ5wgwN/s400/IMG_4792.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I used my travel alarm to keep track of time.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Other fine points:<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Have your Skype password handy in case you accidentally exit from Skype.</li>
<li>Put the webcam in the center of your computer screen so you aren't looking off to the side.</li>
<li>A barrette on top of my head made the headphones feel like they kept slipping. </li>
<li>Position the computer so the background is uncluttered.</li>
<li>I used inquiry-based learning in the middle of the presentation when PowerPoint was on the screen. Mention this to the teacher ahead of time and have her call on kids. It worked great!</li>
<li>After thirty minutes, I stopped sharing my PowerPoint presentation. I wanted the kids in my large screen for Q&A.Then I started sharing again for the final five minutes of inspirational material. </li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMAC-Cqe6gLm49ajinWLpbP34XTcgdK9ybVUOUuODxdyx5LE8Y9PZv_12JkZ1EtQxtqh10Gd8j7Zbznj1qaPBVOIDqCOYnuWO_vybV4oUzIXbL5S5NLOKPwE-cDvCBTUtTMXhVJAV_iN5/s1600/IMG_4793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMAC-Cqe6gLm49ajinWLpbP34XTcgdK9ybVUOUuODxdyx5LE8Y9PZv_12JkZ1EtQxtqh10Gd8j7Zbznj1qaPBVOIDqCOYnuWO_vybV4oUzIXbL5S5NLOKPwE-cDvCBTUtTMXhVJAV_iN5/s400/IMG_4793.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My latest clips are in the April issue of <i>MUSE</i> and the May issue of <i>Highlights</i>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Tuesday I received a call that I had won the <a href="http://www.shorelinearts.org/tassywalden.cfm">Tassy Walden Award!</a> It was a joyous moment. In this challenging field you try and try and try some more and often you feel like you're parked at a stop sign while everyone else is zooming ahead. I'm looking forward to reading my manuscript and meeting the other winners in June. It all seems so surreal. <br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-71818847047527007512016-03-20T09:41:00.000-04:002016-03-20T11:41:18.421-04:00Butterflies!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The first day of spring is a fitting time to post some butterfly photographs taken at <a href="http://www.magicwings.com/">Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory</a> in South Deerfield, Massachusetts.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKUdg2kXSpRyun9g4t0mLgscuFXYNLiWIqhWWFhbwOY-vsv6DEft19zl6tWbTWRywbZA8cS-A5dKVhE1zJ827ipbSRc3ttCsl_TukAnYsXgvxkBhJsNe22Jl8uqIg-s-9DomVLzQ5Dsjq/s1600/IMG_4480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKUdg2kXSpRyun9g4t0mLgscuFXYNLiWIqhWWFhbwOY-vsv6DEft19zl6tWbTWRywbZA8cS-A5dKVhE1zJ827ipbSRc3ttCsl_TukAnYsXgvxkBhJsNe22Jl8uqIg-s-9DomVLzQ5Dsjq/s400/IMG_4480.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">owl butterfly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaEJpImohTsw_YXuje7I0dHlO1dZxCZnIvccwhndHycBJf_ONv1vD8fY6JA6sFPA6iO5Ol_xpHMnGRBzXtQiuS0eAYbLmnpio6zVFRPFMtJxxTtqQ0ZDnOyGmWMsJIlJzEEGJVeN_8WKZ6/s1600/IMG_4474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaEJpImohTsw_YXuje7I0dHlO1dZxCZnIvccwhndHycBJf_ONv1vD8fY6JA6sFPA6iO5Ol_xpHMnGRBzXtQiuS0eAYbLmnpio6zVFRPFMtJxxTtqQ0ZDnOyGmWMsJIlJzEEGJVeN_8WKZ6/s400/IMG_4474.JPG" width="367" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">glasswing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I do Google image searches when I'm hunting for the name of a plant or animal. I type in everything I can think of to describe it, then leaf through the photographs that the search engine finds. If I still can't find a photograph of the plant or animal I'm hunting for, I approach the problem in a different way.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv3eVd2Q_7VA4qGjg38-NosY2HxCT9D4JRqBD5nM3brQqWY_OQR3xGKOcuw3w_cGa93S-a0ARgNMFnBQcVPdSeh08bLvmWihT3epCw57ZEWe_iQLV963EhfEl3A2aZq6bTl1gQd6oFwaRx/s1600/IMG_4469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv3eVd2Q_7VA4qGjg38-NosY2HxCT9D4JRqBD5nM3brQqWY_OQR3xGKOcuw3w_cGa93S-a0ARgNMFnBQcVPdSeh08bLvmWihT3epCw57ZEWe_iQLV963EhfEl3A2aZq6bTl1gQd6oFwaRx/s400/IMG_4469.JPG" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White tree nymph butterfly after emerging from a chrysalis.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Today, I read about butterfly identification, then I ran an image search on "white and sulphur butterflies." That's how I found the name of the elusive white tree nymph butterfly (above and below).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMv6jFdGSoxTWO78mcLd2aY-NtB34lFNSqozAZcSWb8-vVCNXKtj4e766WGPc-yapxpenV6gSrVMNGkqP4aBqi3VznPtOHE2p1fqa_AkyeBVItLv85xYERU_hrZISHgerSaElsSNdx7meW/s1600/IMG_4466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMv6jFdGSoxTWO78mcLd2aY-NtB34lFNSqozAZcSWb8-vVCNXKtj4e766WGPc-yapxpenV6gSrVMNGkqP4aBqi3VznPtOHE2p1fqa_AkyeBVItLv85xYERU_hrZISHgerSaElsSNdx7meW/s400/IMG_4466.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">white tree nymph (or rice paper or paper kite) and Julia (after my youngest)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCooIt5RbCdcIWF4SoKoDzTqCWC6gqf8KXFfTAYcTxn2KoS6MICEu3T-ILMk4a8Ndw6mhZ1VFgDLWBfSEG2vb-da67mzJa7bGogNKJFdhXMKmQ2n1KXvq52M8TQpryKyZNM_ozv5oWU3ky/s1600/IMG_4468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCooIt5RbCdcIWF4SoKoDzTqCWC6gqf8KXFfTAYcTxn2KoS6MICEu3T-ILMk4a8Ndw6mhZ1VFgDLWBfSEG2vb-da67mzJa7bGogNKJFdhXMKmQ2n1KXvq52M8TQpryKyZNM_ozv5oWU3ky/s400/IMG_4468.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zebra longwing</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My article in <i>MUSE</i> should be out soon. It's in April's "poison" issue. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-27095333376009194622016-02-25T19:03:00.002-05:002016-02-25T19:21:33.087-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3XeEiurw2LREB-tRucGWZsc4cBSDxsPvBS6Ib3HztytZzQ_gJI_oD0cnwAVle2eBQxKnUm7dd4Q8aELUIh5EPPPwBDNngc8p-agzecf1kUyU8MA6xVBxbjmxxlzU4bF4yfFARnGQuv_9B/s1600/IMG_4438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3XeEiurw2LREB-tRucGWZsc4cBSDxsPvBS6Ib3HztytZzQ_gJI_oD0cnwAVle2eBQxKnUm7dd4Q8aELUIh5EPPPwBDNngc8p-agzecf1kUyU8MA6xVBxbjmxxlzU4bF4yfFARnGQuv_9B/s400/IMG_4438.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A coyote having a <a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bad%20hair%20day">bad hair day</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
An interesting discussion about how to define nonfiction can be found <a href="http://www.kidlitfrenzy.com/kid-lit-frenzy/2016/2/16/nonfiction-picture-book-wednesday-fiction-in-childrens-nonfiction">here</a>. The <a href="https://www.loc.gov/rr/program/bib/libsci/faq.html#num2">Library of Congress</a> sometimes finds it challenging to determine whether a book is fiction or nonfiction and gathers input from the author and the publisher (scroll down to "Determining a book's literary form" #2) . To me, that clearly means that the line between fiction and nonfiction has been blurred with the publication of new types of books. The cataloguing system (and the Library of Congress) haven't evolved to handle these new formats. (My systems background came in handy when I was trying to see the big picture)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSxH1eQPLJ9QAc6G-zB3VEncf9Czcvy3-HHn70JjMX6xifU0shSzRAoKIuNj48Dgj4g_D6RqV8-WwzcmdM8Dxmzi6lFwIGwawpAOE7hkKTl1fHCPL5O7dlhqW62t5GaFTNQunQeCK1Rwr4/s1600/IMG_4439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSxH1eQPLJ9QAc6G-zB3VEncf9Czcvy3-HHn70JjMX6xifU0shSzRAoKIuNj48Dgj4g_D6RqV8-WwzcmdM8Dxmzi6lFwIGwawpAOE7hkKTl1fHCPL5O7dlhqW62t5GaFTNQunQeCK1Rwr4/s400/IMG_4439.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">on the run</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My article in <i>MUSE</i> was published in January. In April, I expect another article I wrote to be published in that magazine. In June, a third article should appear in <i>Highlights.</i> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT9x27O0NuYx5MJI8RFd1xqnZON-qEteFglJnZFLgr06EJTsM6jnvo4orDBRVn2nHrAwAjr619DcNHjyh1upQoAhV0hYGyGUYs5GBvF-9mfcEf5KlW4l3tZ_vdTNDP9SzGOEvmhjNV7Fyd/s1600/IMG_4440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT9x27O0NuYx5MJI8RFd1xqnZON-qEteFglJnZFLgr06EJTsM6jnvo4orDBRVn2nHrAwAjr619DcNHjyh1upQoAhV0hYGyGUYs5GBvF-9mfcEf5KlW4l3tZ_vdTNDP9SzGOEvmhjNV7Fyd/s400/IMG_4440.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A coyote track looks like a dog print and it's as long as my index finger.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Last week a coyote sneaked across my backyard. Thankfully, the camera was close by and I was quick enough to get the shot. I tracked it through the neighbor's backyard and learned it crossed the street. Then I tracked it in the other direction and noticed the animal followed the trail in the woods. At this point, I was trekking through snow in the pouring rain without rain gear, so I called it quits.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijd_Fx2EJsdsBJBE6iTIvYvs_oi0j6QpRzRb56ENEetEW9ShAFqD3Kx1crR7eVewowCItVRVGIgvVKS3P4xKPrdVMA9cQk3yc8euGUW9dStqsG5hWWjM8VPBW2CNGPhRkZAL3iFc3OiNpV/s1600/IMG_4443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijd_Fx2EJsdsBJBE6iTIvYvs_oi0j6QpRzRb56ENEetEW9ShAFqD3Kx1crR7eVewowCItVRVGIgvVKS3P4xKPrdVMA9cQk3yc8euGUW9dStqsG5hWWjM8VPBW2CNGPhRkZAL3iFc3OiNpV/s400/IMG_4443.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The coyote left a single line of tracks as it headed across the street.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-1732886644281492112016-01-24T18:41:00.000-05:002016-01-24T20:04:28.317-05:00Falling Leaves Retreat <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCs1eBJwEH0cTiRFJNKKSjYDLtufUE1kc877PVb6RZEjGfQsIsilSCdJRapCQOPQ0qaeVSSn3FKrlG25eqlSir8NizzVyGW7fnZwL8dfvEtYhzqTwmLX59cFJb9v3B1S1zsOkfq2YROryr/s1600/IMG_3909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCs1eBJwEH0cTiRFJNKKSjYDLtufUE1kc877PVb6RZEjGfQsIsilSCdJRapCQOPQ0qaeVSSn3FKrlG25eqlSir8NizzVyGW7fnZwL8dfvEtYhzqTwmLX59cFJb9v3B1S1zsOkfq2YROryr/s400/IMG_3909.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hotel reminded me of the Athenaeum at Chautauqua, with all the rockers on the porch.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's been a while since I posted here. I've been busy meeting deadlines, planning a vacation, and fighting for a refund (succesfully!). <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSVF54la1e5uXKBoN4g5npd7n0sKA-F2a6O6xVXlQL-r1rsUVneoU7a9KFVHXG5-9FEIjlTjObkSOCl_fCJwZEoO4MWzBCN16lf2aeonZ5ioqd2Mvdj9nABn7tvoc4Xg_oVJ9YMSOzMh6/s1600/IMG_3905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSVF54la1e5uXKBoN4g5npd7n0sKA-F2a6O6xVXlQL-r1rsUVneoU7a9KFVHXG5-9FEIjlTjObkSOCl_fCJwZEoO4MWzBCN16lf2aeonZ5ioqd2Mvdj9nABn7tvoc4Xg_oVJ9YMSOzMh6/s400/IMG_3905.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">on Sunrise Mountain</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Last November, I was lucky to get the opportunity to attend the Falling Leaves Retreat. After I returned, I noticed it was among <a href="http://blogs.slj.com/afuse8production/2015/05/13/what-are-the-great-childrens-literature-writing-retreats/">School Library Journal's</a> list of best children's literature writing retreats. It was a well run event held at <a href="http://www.silverbay.org/">Silver Bay</a> on the shore of Lake George in New York. I arrived early enough to hike up the red trail to Sunrise Mountain, which was described on the <a href="http://www.silverbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Silver-Bay-Campus-Trail-Map.pdf">map</a> as "Silver Bay's most challenging hike." In the light rain, it was a bit treacherous coming down the sleep slope on leaves that were slipping underfoot. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQDE5AI2Wi39U7GcRZvGL99QcAxme27BTVN1FQC8HvqXUaqHwsphKUDkgU6UfHXKa712yNcjoadZJAjQT87i3kJbvg7uIP1SNVPwgWGtgrNYdMUKHphF7_oPLemcP4ch8K0MAUsIxTxH7/s1600/IMG_3914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQDE5AI2Wi39U7GcRZvGL99QcAxme27BTVN1FQC8HvqXUaqHwsphKUDkgU6UfHXKa712yNcjoadZJAjQT87i3kJbvg7uIP1SNVPwgWGtgrNYdMUKHphF7_oPLemcP4ch8K0MAUsIxTxH7/s400/IMG_3914.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As I was about to join everyone in the meeting place, I saw this little guy. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What I did not expect was to meet someone that had suffered through the exact same tragedy that I went through earlier this year. When she told me what happened to her son, I blinked back tears, stunned. I was going to keep my secret all bottled up, but that's not the way it turned out. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZlWSgCW-Lgq2sWZqTWle4Llr7XkgVP5Yu8CYua8lwopzNUT33A7Kaw0yLgY3wVcait_eqB6uAC7_kjIhygRBryb8drSMiSTwUrj7w2FBxxm4BCaLFtK30hezLyQ_FmMdgP0mvtpDBRJf/s1600/IMG_3913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZlWSgCW-Lgq2sWZqTWle4Llr7XkgVP5Yu8CYua8lwopzNUT33A7Kaw0yLgY3wVcait_eqB6uAC7_kjIhygRBryb8drSMiSTwUrj7w2FBxxm4BCaLFtK30hezLyQ_FmMdgP0mvtpDBRJf/s400/IMG_3913.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the grounds at Silver Bay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
All five editors gave excellent presentations. We did round table on-the-spot reading and critiquing, which was not what I was used to, but I quickly adapted to the format. One evening, we had the opportunity to read our work, if we were brave enough. I signed up, fearless. I read, flawless. <span style="font-size: large;">REDEMPTION!</span></div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5350276476455172888.post-57019621484718729142015-10-16T14:34:00.000-04:002015-10-16T14:43:16.109-04:00Indian Council Caves, Barkhamsted, Connecticut<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxuf18ylUtqLM1NNLzy-jTb4ON1xBYgoiq1xjpoU3u9D35Wf2BIGCEODDgtjVAlegys1uVmlB8elgO2VwYkLVAiu4hElqebzmT-Q_U91uT-0Ai_Go9bYSu1G7Yih4WuHpRM3XkrdYDlbQG/s1600/IMG_3518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxuf18ylUtqLM1NNLzy-jTb4ON1xBYgoiq1xjpoU3u9D35Wf2BIGCEODDgtjVAlegys1uVmlB8elgO2VwYkLVAiu4hElqebzmT-Q_U91uT-0Ai_Go9bYSu1G7Yih4WuHpRM3XkrdYDlbQG/s400/IMG_3518.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luna moth larva</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In August, while hiking to the<a href="http://articles.courant.com/2013-11-29/health/hc-marteka-indian-council-caves-1201-20131129_1_tunxis-trail-openings-indian-council-caves"> Indian Council Caves</a> in Barkhamsted, my brother found this plump green caterpillar. I did a little bit of research and discovered it was a <a href="http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/misc/moths/luna_moth.htm">luna moth larva</a>. The hike was up and down, which wasn't so bad, but hot and humid conditions made it seem enduring.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-12029huUn5RjBgnrsJSRAYzX7G5b43zmhgPCxjLqORdiVBQwPQDw9ylm7c-h7kxwurPjPV6Y3StPlTCTvjl1NnwAtAW58kles2mwxZRhtHx62oYuAxceM9d-WLRLnJygBNFBXVLjxFr9/s1600/IMG_3520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-12029huUn5RjBgnrsJSRAYzX7G5b43zmhgPCxjLqORdiVBQwPQDw9ylm7c-h7kxwurPjPV6Y3StPlTCTvjl1NnwAtAW58kles2mwxZRhtHx62oYuAxceM9d-WLRLnJygBNFBXVLjxFr9/s400/IMG_3520.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was one mighty big larva.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQrE4z4X1n3SPoBFeeSFhFL0JA9XFVDR4qolZ0DanOcmJaibcMyjcBaXF-Nk23115I8eQrtBxkp17lAoU-jIRFsaJz0G81WvuUzKDtEcesDaKeGgmIRO8o4kqgKaVAS7-13g0mGEkZOfa4/s1600/IMG_3514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQrE4z4X1n3SPoBFeeSFhFL0JA9XFVDR4qolZ0DanOcmJaibcMyjcBaXF-Nk23115I8eQrtBxkp17lAoU-jIRFsaJz0G81WvuUzKDtEcesDaKeGgmIRO8o4kqgKaVAS7-13g0mGEkZOfa4/s400/IMG_3514.JPG" width="370" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hornets were buzzing around this huge nest. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This past week, I reviewed three edited articles. Two are expected to be published in <i>MUSE</i> in January. The other one, for <i>Highlights</i>, has a target publication date of May 2016. I'm really happy with both of them. The edits were small, but they've enhanced the text.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ukS2DDrz_okB6-lF1A_f9TNoUwILzkOal7wbb8RyUt0jS_BRWmaevT1KPjnF-apBmksEmCcZbcSVUXCL32naovHb3vzu_cmc0EAQffNcP5p8Ecz6U_193WxJuwS_Jk9DHfFjrchHWwTv/s1600/IMG_3507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ukS2DDrz_okB6-lF1A_f9TNoUwILzkOal7wbb8RyUt0jS_BRWmaevT1KPjnF-apBmksEmCcZbcSVUXCL32naovHb3vzu_cmc0EAQffNcP5p8Ecz6U_193WxJuwS_Jk9DHfFjrchHWwTv/s400/IMG_3507.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It seemed like everything we encountered was immense.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5jbiTgOLdCox4DwnGuMB2DLaCp7EwVenhHza61X8hqAfPH859kS3U7cQQn97wpkrNZXq1CgoDtQY6YYcaTh5d0m0Tb2sxG9RZ1-0ahnRF_RdKXxymrXrf_eadw5gcG2dbydZwTB0n7iL/s1600/IMG_3509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5jbiTgOLdCox4DwnGuMB2DLaCp7EwVenhHza61X8hqAfPH859kS3U7cQQn97wpkrNZXq1CgoDtQY6YYcaTh5d0m0Tb2sxG9RZ1-0ahnRF_RdKXxymrXrf_eadw5gcG2dbydZwTB0n7iL/s400/IMG_3509.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
Recently, I restructured a middle grade manuscript and turned chapters 1 and 2 into chapters 4 and 5. The end result was that my manuscript, that was ready to send out, had become far from ready--the first chapters were gone. So, I've been real busy writing the front end (chapters 1 and 2). My goal was to have at least five pages ready for a retreat I'm going to in November. I wound up chopping chapter 1 in half and was delighted that I once again had two chapters! They still need some work, but the story is there.</div>
Linda Zajachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11930130216892471502noreply@blogger.com0