Here’s how I did it:
I left my family and moved to a house by myself.
I quit my day job. To pay the bills, I left the bank repossess whatever they wanted to come in and suck up.
I quit taking daily showers, for the most part a good hand wash kept me out of the red zone. I quit sleeping. Naps on the couch worked fine.
I quit cooking. Grab a snack and get back to work.
I shunned all face to face encounters. When I was in desperate need of human contact, I made a quick phone call.
I didn’t waste time on classes or skill development. I just forced myself to sit and write for twelve to fourteen hours a day.
I wrote the same genre over and over. I got better royalty checks if I never tried to step out of my literary box.
I hired a maid.
I shut off the age progression feature in the menu setting.
Elizabeth writes books and eats chocolate. Find her - Blog / Website / Facebook
Find her books on Amazon
What Are the Kargrandes?
New clue today at What Are the Kargrandes? This is the sixth one, and there are new clues every Monday until the release of Dragon of the Stars on April 7.
Sample Tweets for this week:
What are the Kargrandes? Sixth clue up this week- http://whatarethekargrandes.com/ #whatarethekargrandes #scifi @alexjcavanaugh
Can you solve the mystery before April 7–what are the Kargrandes? http://whatarethekargrandes.com/ #whatarethekargrandes @alexjcavanaugh
Movie Review
Based on the 1960’s series, it was updated for a new generation. However, it didn’t really capture the spirit of the original series. It was very odd, but not odd in a good way like the series.
The animation is all right. It does boast some great name actors for the voices – Patrick Warburton was the best, although he doesn’t come in until late in the film.
Overall, it seemed too long and the result is a movie that’s just ‘all right.’
Not recommended
Ninja News
DL Hammons has an agent - Sarah Negovetich of the Corvisiero Literary Agency!
New Releases –
Get it on Amazon
And coming soon – an interview with the biggest guests I’ve ever had on this blog: the RiffTrax guys!!! Yes, I scored an interview with them in conjunction with their release this week of RiffTrax Live: Sharknado.
The Great and Powerful A to Z Theme Reveal Blogfest!
Sign-ups for the 2015 A to Z Blogging Challenge are already under way. If you have done it before, you know how much fun it is (good for you!) and if you have not, this is your chance to give it a try! You can sign up to participate here.
One of the most burning questions participants ask themselves every year is: "Should I have a theme?" Themes are not mandatory, but definitely fun. They let your visitors know what to expect, and help you create posts that line neatly up from A to Z. They also have an added bonus: They let you participate in a whole separate blogfest! Two years ago A to Z participant Mina Lobo stared the Theme Reveal, and we thought it was such a great idea that we made it tradition. It is now our very own, grand and festive way of rolling out our themes together!
Here is how the Theme Reveal Blogfest works:
Sign up on the Linky list below, and on March 23rd (Monday) publish a post on your blog in which you reveal your theme, tell us why it is exciting, and give us a hint of what to expect from it! Then, once your post is up, use the Linky to visit all the other blogs announcing their themes. Enjoy!
This is a great opportunity for all of you to get a jump start on your A to Z experience. Sign up below, ready your theme, and post March 21st on your calendar!
Think you’d be willing to sacrifice a few things to become a best-selling author in one week? Getting closer to the Kargrandes answer? Seen the movie? Excited about the new books? Participating in the Challenge? And are you excited to reveal your theme…?
WOW first in line.
ReplyDeleteGreat ideas how to become a best selling author,
I haven't yet got a theme for my A to Z but have a few ideas in mind,
Great post as usual.
If only life was as easy as a video game. However, there are authors who do a lot of those things in real life.
ReplyDeleteI'm leaning toward doing A to Z. I have a simple theme. The only thing is I'm going on vacation in April. I'm bringing my laptop, but posting might be delayed.
Hello Alex! Random question - do you watch Person of Interest? I have been watching it and thought it was a series that's right up your alley!
ReplyDeleteA best selling author in one week? That seems more of a fantasy than reality, but I do believe anything is possible in the spectrum of life.
ReplyDeleteAn interesting book by Holy Ghost Writer.
Enjoy your week Alex as the countdown continues to your newest release.
As always I appreciate your visits.
Love and light...
I have a theme but not sure if it'll work. Still chewing it over.
ReplyDeleteCongrats to DL, saw that on FB. And Congrats to Elizabeth, C.L, and everyone with wonderful book releases.
Fantastic guest post, Elizabeth! I always give myself unlimited money in The Sims with the cheat code. :) Congrats to everyone releasing a book this week. And wow! Awesome news about the RiffTrax interview, Alex. I'm so excited! :)
ReplyDeleteDon't think I want to be a best seller in a week if it entails giving up the family ..... maybe some days could be tempted! x
ReplyDeletelol oh what can be done on the sims. My ocd would not like being stinky, malnourished and half past dead.
ReplyDeleteAgreed Mr. Peabody movie was meh indeed, liked Alvin and the chipmunks 3 better and that's saying something lol
I think I'd be in big trouble if I gave up my real-life family!
ReplyDeleteI already revealed my A-Z theme, so I guess I can't reveal it again. Maybe I can discuss why it matters, though.
A RiffTrax interview - excited for you, Alex!
ReplyDeleteThe bestselling author story was amusing, but at the core has a great message; to be successful (at anything, really) you have to make sacrifices and put in the hours. I wouldn't give up the showers though. I think many of us writers do a lot of creative thinking while standing under the hot water. :)
Loved today's post! I sacrafice 3 to 4 hours a day to my writing. That's it. Can't sell out my soul or family.
ReplyDeleteI love becoming a best selling writer on The Sims, it always seems so much easier than in real life...
ReplyDeleteI've signed up for the theme reveal, can't wait to see what people come up with this year :)
Very cute article. So many new books out, too! Congrats to all.
ReplyDeleteThe interview is exciting. Can't wait.
I laughed at Elizabeth's "Sims" writer success! Who needs family and baths??? Very cute!
ReplyDeleteAnd congratulations again to DL!
I'm traveling this week, so I don't know if I'll be able to get another "Create52" blogpost AND a A-to-Z theme reveal post together, but I'll tell you right now what my theme is: "The 101 Guitarists Who Most Influenced Me," ranked and presented by letter. I've already written 9 of the posts and hope to have them all done by April 1st.
I wish the time and life would allow me to get back into writing. I will end up dying before anyone reads my works, I don't know anymore. I just am.
ReplyDeleteGot to see the wonderful 50 Shades and even better Kingsman film this weekend, I cannot tell you how I preferred the gadgets over whips... really.
Well when life gives you lemons, you have lemons.
Jeremy
I am not familiar with the series, but I thought Mr. Peabody and Sherman was "all right" as well.
ReplyDeletehmmm wastelands sounds pretty cool...
ReplyDeleteeverything comes with sacrifice...and there are def things i would not sacrifice, even to become a writer...after achieving success, who would there be to share it with...
I really like what Elizabeth Seckman wrote about how to become a best-selling author.
ReplyDeleteMaybe I should write my reviews in The Sims ...
I like the Victorian era and my wonderful wife picked it up and on Valentine's day she surprised me with the following book:
How to be a Victorian (first published 2013; this issue 2014) [ISBN-13: 978-0670921362] by Ruth Goodman.
So in case you are interested in the Victorian era it could something for you.
Elizabeth! That was adorable.
ReplyDeleteHA! Love the plan to become a best seller. Can I buy insurance against any repercussions?
ReplyDeleteDidn't see that movie but did watch "Ouija" - pretty good!
ReplyDeleteGood luck to everyone doing the A-Z Challenge!
Yvonne, you were first!
ReplyDeleteCindy, pre-schedule your posts!
Keith, yes I do and I enjoy it!
Truedessa, getting closer...
Christine, I am stoked!!!
Pat, that's saying a lot.
Edi, thanks!
Lisa, there are indeed sacrifices.
Chris, awesome theme!
Jeremy, sorry you had to see that. And I've enjoyed your books.
Success can come at a cost, but do we really want such a cost?
ReplyDeleteLove Elizabeth's post! Too cute :)
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to Rifftrax interview!
Great new books. I'm still considering whether to sign up for A-Z or not. Have an awesome week.
ReplyDeleteFun post by Elizabeth. I enjoyed it!
ReplyDeleteAnd I'm excited for DL. He has an awesome agent.
Reading your new book BTW and enjoying it.
Elizabeth made me chuckle all the way through. Really sweet! Looks like there's a ton of new amazing books being released. Congrats to all the authors.
ReplyDeleteOMG that was hilarious! haha I thought she was serious.
ReplyDeleteAlex, are you just NOW watching Mr. Peabody and Sherman?? lol I really liked it, actually. Brought the old and new together for me.
We both love Elizabeth and this only reinforces that. Her piece was fantastic. And I do have to say, I laugh when they do interviews with those Amazon romance writer women that make $10,000 a week, but all they do is churn out bad romance novels like they're a factory worker, and it's a constant crunch to... um, s*** them out on a monthly basis. Financially worth it, sure, but I'd rather write something fun that wasn't like pumping out word vomit once a month.
ReplyDeleteAlso,I am very excited for this Rifftrax interview. How awesome is that!
Very funny, Elizabeth!
ReplyDeleteWhen I saw the post title, I wondered if it was going to be about hiring one of those companies that buys out an entire print run of your book to get it on the NYT bestseller list, then returns them all. 'Cause that's a thing now, apparently.
A skanky thing. But a thing.
ha, Elizabeth had me going there for a minute!! love it :) I'd never do anything like that to get to be a bestseller--I'm such a creature of habit and couldn't give up my daily routine lol
ReplyDeleteThanks, although I have to look theme for A to Z!
ReplyDeleteI about freaked out after reading your first sentence! You had me.
ReplyDeleteThese days, I sacrifice time for my writing. Oh, and money. Time and money. That's about all I'm willing to sacrifice.
Wow. That quote made me laugh and laugh. I'm now in love with Elizabeth Seckman.
ReplyDeleteWow, I guess that's one way of doing it. Not sure I'm ready to go quite that far. Thanks, Elizabeth, for making me laugh this morning. Congrats, Alex, on your upcoming RiffTrax interview, and congrats to everyone with new releases! I'm signed up for the A to Z Theme Reveal. Looking forward to April!
ReplyDeleteStill not a clue about the Kargrandes.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to authors for all the new books.
Still thinking about the challenge. Maybe.
Have a great week.
Hart, good question!
ReplyDeleteKaren, do a theme with images.
Murees, join us.
Natalie, that's good to hear!
Debra, yeah, I finally got to it...
Brandon and Bryan, I completely agree. And I am so stoked to post that interview!
Dianne, that's scary.
Lori, awesome!
Beverly, join us!
Alex!
ReplyDeleteI feel bad, you've had such a bad run of movies lately. You need to re-watch one you love to restore your faith in Hollywood!
Maybe a little Guardians or Avengers!
Theme reveal? Guess I'll have to figure out what I'm doing soon!
Heather
I'm with Elizabeth, the maid and age progression stopper would really work for me.
ReplyDeleteLots of people have reason to celebrate this week.
I think I'm going to run out and buy the Sims so I can live out my dreams of being a best seller. It's so easy! ;)
ReplyDeleteLove Elizabeth's list. I hope she lets me know when she figures out how to disable age progression for real... on the side, without telling anyone else :-)
ReplyDeleteGuess I'll forego becoming a best selling author, but we can dream virtually can't we.
ReplyDeleteI'll bring up the rear on the Theme Reveal Blogfest on my Wednesday post.
Arlee Bird
A to Z Challenge Co-host
Tossing It Out
I don't think there's anything that you have not liked that I did, so I'll stay away from Peabody. Even Warburton isn't enough for me to want to see that.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to all the new covers. Way to go, authors. I read Elizabeth's list and laughed out loud. I actually thought she was going to teach me how to become a best-selling author. LOL. Okay! back to work.
ReplyDeleteHand wash? I don't need no stinkin' hand wash. (Hey, I made a funny) That's why you weren't making $15,000 a week.
ReplyDeleteLol, Elizabeth! Love this post! Congrats to all the authors!!!
ReplyDeleteI would love to hire a maid in the process of becoming a bestselling author. :)
I kind of halfway revealed my "almost figured out" theme already . . . so yes, I will happily reveal it on reveal day. :)
Very interesting indeed.
ReplyDeleteIf only becoming a best selling author was that easy! LOL
ReplyDelete@Cindy- don't I wish! I especially like the one click remodel.
ReplyDelete@Truedessa- total fantasy, for sure.
@Cathrina, thanks!
@Christine- I would never, ever Rosebud my way through Sims life. Why, I don't even know why I know that cheat code ;)
@Suzannne- I hear ya!
@Pat- no one wants to be the stinky guy or gal.
@Sandra- I agree. Not worth it in the end.
@Li- so kind of you to find deep thoughts in my meanderings. And you're also right, we can multi-task, unlike a Sim.
@Shelly- kudos to you! Having a soul and a family are so important.
@Laura- even in games, it's not easy, especially with life progression. First time I tried, I went to all the classes, worked as a journalist, wrote a few books- then died.
@T. Powell- Thanks!
@Chris- Thanks! Laughs are always good.
@Jeremy- I had t take a long writing hiatus when life got rough. I thought I would never get back to writing, but then I realized my phone had a notepad, so I wrote in waiting rooms!
@Brian- perfectly said!
@edi- fortunately, on the Sims- there are no reviews.
@Southpaw- Thanks!
@Hart- probably- they offer insurance for everything else. Maybe Aflac?
@Holy Ghost- nope. I'd rather be a nobody than a nothing.
@Jemi, Natalie, and SA- Thanks!
@Debra- No worries. I trick people into thinking I'm serious all the time.
@Beer Guys- Ahh shucks, love you too. Yeah, those sort of romances do rake it in. My hubs (greedy guy that he is!) has suggested I go that route, but like you, I agree- to thine twisted self be true!
@Dianne- I have heard of that! Skanky for sure.
@Beth Ellyn- habit high fives- also guilty!
@Jay- you were probably wondering why I had never offered you a loan, right?
@Ann- I've read your blog- selfish is NOT in your DNA at all. Love back at you!
@Lori- My pleasure!
@Susan- if only life had a settings menu.
@Patricia- get the download, it's a little cheaper.
@Annalisa, you'll be the first to know girlfriend!
@Arlee- virtual dreams are still dreams.
Elizabeth's post is awesome. She had me wondering there for while where she was going with that. :D
ReplyDeleteI had decided I didn't have time for A to Z this year but between you, Alex, and Carrie Butler you two have me rethinking. Ugh
Alex. Wow. How do you do it?! Got to go ice my wrist now.
ReplyDeleteI'm in for the A-Z. I have my theme, and though I haven't started writing- I do have a plan.
Lee is an amazing writer. Love her stories. So happy for DL. Love to see good things happen to nice guys.
I haven't seen Peabody and won't be any time soon.
Thanks for having me over! You're simply the best. :)
Oh, and happy dancing about the Rifftrax guys- they're lucky to get interviewed by you!
Love, love, Love Elizabeth's post! There are some things I'd sacrifice to get to $15k in sales a week, just not sacrificing all of me.
ReplyDeleteCongrats to all for the latest releases. Going to check them out.
Oops! Almost forgot JL Campbell...love her stuff too. And Holy Ghost, how can I ignore that sort of book? Def catches the eye!
ReplyDeleteI'll go for the maid and a cook too. But I couldn't give up sleeping in my own bed or taking a shower. Nope, not going to happen. Sigh... I guess I'm not going to make a ton of Simoleons...
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to DL!!!!!!!!! And of course to all the authors with new books coming out.
Elizabeth makes it sound so easy. Maybe we need to hire Sims to be ghostwriters, and take all the credit. Hmm.
ReplyDeleteVery funny, Elizabeth. LOL Please pass on any tips about stopping age progression.
ReplyDeleteElizabeth has provided us with a sure-fire solution and I'm writing it down. Step by step. Of course, writing a compelling book or two--which she has done--probably plays into her success!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the shout out about my book. Really loved seeing it along with those others making their way into the world.
But how did my blog land in #1 on the Theme Reveal Linky? I practically fell off my desk chair when I saw that.
Congratulations to all the authors with releases!
ReplyDeleteI'm really looking forward to revealing both of my themes, the one on my main blog and the one on my names blog. Both of them are really special.
Elizabeth's post was fun and clever! Her sacrifices for success were hilarious! I'm still lost with the Kargrandes, and can't wait for you to unlock the mystery. Great idea about the theme reveal! Thanks for reminding me to get organized. Congrats to all the authors!
ReplyDeleteJulie
Heather, you're right - I need to make sure the next film is a good one.
ReplyDeletePatricia, it is!
Andrew, just go watch The Emperor's New Groove again for Warburton.
Stephen - funny!
Donna, you can do it!
Elizabeth, years of practice. Plus clones.
Bish, I'm not giving up showers.
Lee, you're welcome! And I guess someone added us.
Whenever I start on a new book draft, my husband thinks he won't get fed and maybe he'll be the one sleeping on the couch LOL.
ReplyDeleteI watched Peabody and Sherman with my nephew, Alex. Like you, I was disappointed. The show used to be so much fun. The movie is just weird and boring.
ReplyDeleteI was so impressed with Elizabeth (already am), but then I thought "It's not like her to leave her family," etc. Well, now I'm even more impressed to learn that she has such amazing virtual game skills. She's like your female ninja counterpart.
Hilarious post, Elizabeth! :D
ReplyDeleteLots of pretty covers this week. The How To Train Your Dragon films have really raised the bar on animation in my opinion. It has to be really well done to grab my attention--and I love animated movies.
A to Z madness already?! Where has the time gone ... I haven't blogged in a while so the thought of doing it every day for a month is a little drowning. lol
Elizabeth's post was too funny! If only life was as easy as The Sims...
ReplyDeleteCan't wait for the theme reveal!
Haha! Seckman's journey to becoming a bestselling author in one week was very funny. Makes me want to take a look at The Sims.
ReplyDeleteWow, Rifftrax! I'll be sure to catch it. Congrats, DL! Awesome news. So much good stuff going on.
ReplyDeleteLOL! I love it! Wouldn't it be nice if life were like a video game? (Of course, in that case, I would kindly like to be able to start over any time I want. And save frequently so I can go back to where I was and retrace my steps. Pretty please?)
ReplyDeleteCongrats on scoring the interview of your dreams.
ReplyDeleteHAHA, Elizabeth! At first I thought you were serious and I was thinking "Holy cow! I know someone who was making $13,000 in royalties a week!" But then I kept reading. I've never played Sims, but if that's what could happen maybe I should! ;)
ReplyDeleteI've been waiting for the theme reveal. Yay! I'm all signed up.
I think I'll take the long way to becoming a best selling author.
ReplyDeleteI like the cover of Holy Ghost Writer's new book. The violinist is pretty cool.
Ha! I took the best-selling author post seriously until I got to the shower part. :)
ReplyDeleteMy kids love Peabody and Sherman, but then, kids tend to have different tastes. Looking forward to the theme reveals!
Hi, Alex & Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteElizabeth is a riot. The caption of course, made me take a second look.
Thanks for including my book, Alex.
I see the sign-ups are going well.
Elizabeth had me going for a few seconds! Good to see her here. Wishing her all the best. Have a great week, everyone!
ReplyDeleteRobyn, I remember the show fondly. And yes, that makes Elizabeth super-geek cool.
ReplyDeleteEJ, it is almost time for the Challenge.
Caryn, starting over at the last save point would be awesome.
Joy, you're welcome!
Elizabeth, I think there will be a lot of people playing the Sims this week...
Sometimes I feel like I go through all of that work to be a best-seller (sleep deprived, under feed hermit) without the best-seller results. I'm sure all Authors feel that way at some point or other.
ReplyDeleteI read Lee's new book over the weekend and will soon start on Joy's.
ReplyDeleteLoved Elizabeth's post. Writing bestselling fiction sounds tiring and unhygienic. :)
I wasn't sure where Elizabeth was going with that! But it does bring an important question to mind--just how much WOULD we sacrifice to make that dream come true?
ReplyDeleteThat was a very clever piece by Liz. Ikind of believed it, but some of those comments made me wonder what was going on :P
ReplyDeleteI'm starting to feel like I need to do those things just to finish a novel! :)
ReplyDeleteI am not even going to consider doing A to Z this year. I am overallocated as is.
Ha, I was thinking this woman is crazy. Mind you, in the future when we all live in computers I my give it a go.
ReplyDeleteHi Alex.
ReplyDeleteGreat post, Elizabeth. Enjoyed it.
I really dived into Elizabeth's post!!!
ReplyDeleteLoved it.
Thank you so much for the mention Alex. You know you've made it when you make the Alex J. Cavanaugh feed! :)
ReplyDeleteI'm also in for the Challenge, although I'm going commando (no theme).
Alex, there goes all the real life word counts. Long live the Sims...by turning off aging in the settings menu.
ReplyDelete@Donna- I'm good at that
@Angela- thanks- totally agree!
@Bish- yep, I could force myself to accept them too.
@Ash-Matic- I vote yes!
@Jeff- If I find the secret, I'll share. At a low, low price.
@Lee- Hugs! You're a sweetie!
@Empty Nest- Thanks!
@Karen- my family hates the end pages. Hit that point where the story just must be told and all else falls apart.
@Robin- only in the virtual world!
@EJ- Thanks!
@Sarah- I agree. If only.
@John- be careful, it's highly addictive.
@Caryn- It would be great, until the zombies show up.
@Chrys- sorry. More like 13000 cents.
@Sherry- Yep. slow and steady wins.
@Jenni- glad you knew I was a showerer!
@JL and Karen- Thanks ladies!
@Medeia- I was going to be shocked if you played games. You're too productive!
@Stephanie- brain cells- as many as it takes!
@Michael- I am a really good liar.
@Tonja- I've had days that were close to that.
@Mooderino- this woman is crazy!
@Sandra and Huntress- thank you!
Congrats to DL on the agent! Yay!
ReplyDeleteAnd I'm looking forward to seeing what everyone's A to Z themes will be this year. :)
What a funny post, Elizabeth! It reminded me of certain crunch times in my life! I'm eating chocolate right now!
ReplyDeleteYour Kargandes are definitely intriguing, Alex! And look at all the people you've signed up for the A to Z Challenge! Maybe next year! Have a good one!
lol, Elizabeth, so funny!
ReplyDeleteAlex, I picked up Automata and actually really enjoyed it. Maybe because I wasn't expecting much after your review ;) (Sometimes it happens that way). I particularly loved the cinematography. Gorgeous shots.
Elizabeth - I love your post!
ReplyDeleteCongrats to everyone with new books, new stories, and new agents!
Those pesky Kargrandes. They're large and small, big and little, round and square.
I'm so bummed I can't do a-z this year (I'm going away for 2 weeks - somewhere warm!!!). This will be the first year I've missed.
ReplyDeleteJack, we do!
ReplyDeleteStephanie, not that much.
DL, you are most welcome my friend! And dive on in.
Fundy, hope you can join us next year.
Lynda, it did look good. Just wasn't quite enough for me. Maybe I went in with too high of expectations.
Carol, into which peg do they fit?
Just signed up myself!
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to your guests.
When I was a kid I loved Mr. Peabody and his boy Sherman. I mean, if a boy can have a dog, why can't a dog have a boy. Especially a really smart dog. It all made sense to me when I was a kid.
ReplyDeleteI could have sworn I signed up long ago. If my name fizzles from the list again, I will take that as an omen!
ReplyDeleteWhat great guests you are going to have!
And congrats to D L! I just won a first page critique from a new agent. I have reservations about submitting. Book publishers are taking much fewer chances on unknowns.
Best of luck with your A to Z and with your latest book!!
Elizabeth is so fun~ Thank-you for sharing her with us!
ReplyDeleteI love Mr. Peabody and Sherman-that is sad~
Congrats, to DL!
Captain, I hope your week is off to a good start! I have had power issues in my world. A transformer finally blew out. Now, this storm-yikes!
Stay warm, Captain AC
I don't know if I will be able to participate in the Theme Reveal, because I may not have a theme to reveal by then :P But it's a great idea!!
ReplyDeleteElizabeth, I loved your 'get rich quick' story. hahaha.
Elizabeth's game for bestsellers was a hoot. I'm so tired of those writers who boast about making thousands a week and if I simply followed their suggestions then I could too! Her jabs (no showers!) were too funny.
ReplyDeleteI'm following the Kargrandes clues. One more to go!
I'm so happy for Milo's story getting into an important anthology like Wastelands 2.
Great humour from Elizabeth! We could certainly be closer to that best-selling author tag if we could shrug of our responsibilities, but we need a life too.
ReplyDeleteAlex-- As usual, wonderful post. I loved reading Elizabeth's segment. At first I thought she was serious, until I read further down. I love the message behind what she said, "there is nothing worth becoming a smelly, malnourished, sleep-deprived hermit for."
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, I think there are people out there who would give up their family, friends, and sanity to become a best selling author. So this is a very good reminder to just enjoy the ride!
OK Elizabeth is quite funny and I don't think I would want to be near her if she didn't shower:) I would never give up my home, family, food and bathing so I guess I would take longer than a week. I loved the original animated series but when this film came out, even the promos didn't work for me. I think I shall skip that movie. I have signed up and it is exciting:) Look what you did for me? Thank you!!
ReplyDeleteI love Elizabeth's post!
ReplyDeleteI'm all signed up for the A-Z challenge Theme Reveal Bloghop.
RiffTrax... not sure who they are, but they sound important. I'll google it later.
Congrats on scoring that interview, Alex!
Off to tweet!
Fantastic post!! Wow, I'm off to do what Elizabeth did. Goodbye home, goodbye cooking and chores - Hello life!! :)
ReplyDeleteI'd be willing to sacrifice the excitement of rejection letters to become a best seller - but not all that much else.
ReplyDeleteMy daughter plays Sims, I have never been into any of virtual games (I actually do math puzzles for fun). I am looking forward to AtoZ. I decided my theme ages ago.
ReplyDeleteFor a half a second there, you had me going, Elizabeth. LOL We won't talk about how many things on that list I've done to some degree, and I'm not making anywhere near that kind of money. :D Great post!
ReplyDeleteI like these ideas, Elizabeth...ha! Great stuff.
ReplyDeleteSorry that Mr. Peabody wasn't as good. I was wondering if that might be the case. It was great in the Rocky and Bullwinkle show, but sort of odd...wondered how that was going to translate.
It's always interesting to think about what we sacrifice for writing. The movie Woman in Red really underscores that idea, plus Ethan Hawke is in it, so it's worth a watch! Have fun with A-Z!
ReplyDeleteOops, I meant the movie Woman in the Fifth :)
ReplyDeleteI'm leaning towards a theme, but haven't set my mind to it, yet, so I haven't signed up, yet, but I plan to. I would feel like I'm missing out if I didn't do the challenge this year. Hmm.
ReplyDeleteLol! And I started taking notes on Elizabeth's list (not really ;) )
ReplyDeleteCongrats DL, and all others!
How many more days until your release, Alex?
I have so got that not showering thing nailed.
ReplyDeleteElizabeth always makes me laugh and this post was no exception. Big of her to be talked in to getting the maid.
ReplyDeleteWow, congrats to DL! How exciting for him.
That bit by Elizabeth... hilarious. I loved it.
ReplyDeleteAs for the A to Z, I know you'll be HORRIBLY disappointed, but I'm just not doing it this year. Yep, one less for person for you to visit on a daily basis! I'm having difficulty keeping my balls in the air blogging 4x a month. My blog reading is also suffering. My book isn't where I want it. My migraines are expanding like they want to take over the world. Not the world. My world.
Anyway, I'm not going to add the stress of A to Z to what is clearly an already stressed life. But, I wish everyone who participates the best!!! (That includes YOU:)
Too bad the Peabody and Sherman movie didn't pan out. Loved that as a kid. Hard to improve on old school, though.
ReplyDeleteC. Lee's book looks interesting, as does the Holy Ghost Writer's.
One week, I'll only be older. Simulation not required.
Jeff, glad you're on board!
ReplyDeleteStephen, I enjoyed it when I was a kid as well. The movie just didn't do it for me though.
Roland, this is the theme reveal, not the list for the Challenge participants. It just opened.
Ella, staying indoors today!
Trisha, one week before the Challenge - I hope you at least have something planned!
MsMariah, I'm not one of those to give those things up.
Birgit, awesome!!
Michelle, RiffTrax is huge.
Elizabeth, it was a good odd in short doses, but not so much in a full length movie.
Mary, you don't want to miss it!
T, seven weeks!!
Robin, we don't want you to kill yourself just to participate.
Dean - funny!
Oh, Elizabeth. How I love thee! You are one funny, chick. Congrats on your release!
ReplyDeleteHi, Alex!
Oh, Elizabeth. How I love thee! You are one funny, chick. Congrats on your release!
ReplyDeleteHi, Alex!
Hehe Elizabeth, loved your post.
ReplyDelete@Fundy- crunch times rules are always different
ReplyDelete@Lynda, Carol, and Ella- Thanks :)
@Trisha- if only my electric company took Simoleons!
@Helena- Some of the world's greatest writers died broke and were getting nothing but critical jabs. Do it for the love, do it for the readers.
@Denise- Yep. Life needs balance.
@msmarich- a little tongue in cheek.
@Birgit- yep, let's all slow down and shower!
@Michelle- thanks!
@Nicola- uh oh...come back...we need to talk!
@Patsy- I'm with you there!
@Rhonda- math puzzles? Bet your brain works far better than mine.
@Melissa- on a half second? You know me too well.
@Elizabeth/Riley- Thanks!
@Shell- some small sacrifices are okay.
@Tonja- I bet I lost you at shower.
@Al- Just as long as you're powdering your wig.
@Julie- I'm all about doing the hard stuff.
@Robin- Thanks!
@Dean- LOL. Same here.
@Emily- <3 to you too!
@Suzanne- Thanks!
Thanks in advance for the feature Monday, Alex. Do I need to send you anything?
ReplyDeleteElizabeth Seckman fun !!
ReplyDeleteAh, the Sims. It's been a while since I visited that place. Never could seem to hold down a job there. My avatar was smelly, too, and I didn't even have to become a best selling author!
ReplyDeleteSuch a great post by Elizabeth! She SO rocks with her sense of humor. Love the K clues and can't wait to read "Dragon!" Congrats to all the new releases!
ReplyDeleteHey! Was wondering about your thoughts on the movie "Cake"? I really loved it, but would love to see your review!
ReplyDeleteCongrats to everyone with book/agent news. And I can't wait to read that interview with Riff Trax!
ReplyDeleteI loved Elizabeth's piece. Funny, scary, and a little bit too true.
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear the bit about Mr. Peabody, I was kind of looking forward to it, but since my time is so limited anymore, I'm gonna take your word for it and skip this one.
Still on the fence about A to Z. Again, the time thing. I'm just not sure I can devote that much time to anything right now, either before or during the month of April. Also, not sure how many blogs I could visit and you know that means limited return visits. I'm afraid that just might bum me out too much at this time.
Sandra, I have the cover and links - I am good to go!
ReplyDeleteKen, that's funny.
Lisa, I hope you enjoy it.
SC, sorry, haven't seen it. Not my style of film though.
Faraway, you do what is right for YOU.
Wow, what an awesome interview score! That's why you're part Ninja :-) LOVED Elizabeth's blog post . . . I thought something must be up, lol. I'd sacrifice showers--I hate them. But I'm still a kid inside ;-)
ReplyDeleteWow, that's a lot signed up for the theme reveal already. Since my theme is the same theme as last year and the year before (business as usual), I don't know if I'll do it.
ReplyDeleteIf I can keep showering, I might try to become a bestselling author in two weeks...
I guess a video simulation is a good way to try some extreme measures. Interesting ideas and things to think about! :)
ReplyDeleteCongrats to all with books out. I have Lee's book already. :)
~Jess
Hey,
ReplyDeleteI think Liz's ideas are great... I'm going full on with the non-washing starting NOW :)
Thanks for the laughs, Twinny, and wishing you MUCH success :)
Fun post about new books.
ReplyDeleteGreat idea to have a reveal-post. I woke up this morning and wrote down my theme for A to Z before breakfast. In the nick of time!
Best wishes,
Anna
It'd be neat if once in a while, just like in a game, we could pick and choose the features we wanted to turn off!
ReplyDeleteThat guest post by Liz Seckman was AWESOME! I was in tears after I realized just what she was really going on about. The Sims best selling writer...that's excellent stuff! Thanks for the laugh today, Alex & Liz!!
ReplyDeleteHey, Alex,
ReplyDeleteGOTTO love, LIZ... she has an awesome sense of humor!
I can't BELIEVE it's time for the A-Z! ALL the best to those who can manage it. At this point, I can barely manage a post a week. But I do admire all of you. I was lucky to get through the past three years.
I feel like I've been left behind some how. I am THRILLED for DL, and Lee has another book out. AND so does Elizabeth! Jeez... I am still pushing a novel I wrote four years ago. Am I stubborn or stupid? Anyway, we all have our own journeys, right? I just hope I can catch up to all my wonderful blogger buddies.
AND, your book is coming out in less than two months.... CONGRATS....
Not sure I could live without a shower. And I can't sleep on the couch since ours is too small. I need to stretch out.
ReplyDeleteCongrats Elizabeth!
And Alex, I'm loving the clues. Still haven't guessed yet, but that's not unusual for me. You never want me on your team for games like this.
Undoubtedly, thanks for your review of Mr. Peabody and Sherman!
ReplyDeleteElizabeth! Hah! (She totally cracks me up.)
ReplyDeleteI've said it before and I'll say it again--HUGE congrats to DL, and how did I miss Lee's release? Gee. I must be hanging out in a black hole.
It's been fun chatting with everyone about their themes for the A to Z. I could do one about "Nightmare you have while expecting," but I'm thinking I'll be much too busy taking care of a newborn. Looking forward to everyone's posts though!
I used to wonder how you did all the things you do, but now I know. Your friend Elizabeth has revealed your secret. You're a Sims character. LOL!
ReplyDeleteI guess I'm just not ready to be a best seller becasue I too eat chocolate. :D
Great post, cool new releases, and looking forward to these reveals.
Ilove The Sims so much. It pretty much destroys my life, though, when i play
ReplyDeleteI had no idea one could become a bestselling author through the Sims... I guess I had it all wrong, LOL. Congratulations!
ReplyDeleteLiz, that's a fair tradeoff.
ReplyDeleteAnna, awesome!
Michael, you are just that much closer to success now - keep at it!
TBM, you could still be on my team.
Crystal, if you do it, go for simple.
Toi, the secret is out!
Elizabeth is hilarious :)
ReplyDeleteNot a lot of good movies these days, huh? I wish they would stop the remakes and do new things!!
Elizabeth faked me out there. For a moment I believed it. Congrats to DL on his good agent news!
ReplyDeleteCongrats to JL, Lee, and Holy Ghost Writer on their new releases.
Sad about the Sherman movie. I loved that show as a kid.
Elizabeth's list took me by surprise! I kept saying "ugh," "more ugh," and "not for me," and then I realized she was talking the SIMS. That's a really clever written piece.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait until you see The Kingsman. I bet you really like it.
Loved the post, but yeah, really not willing to stop showering in order to become a best-selling author. In fact, sometimes if I'm stuck on a plot point or something, a hot shower can help me brainstorm solutions. Excited for the A to Z Fest! :D
ReplyDeleteHaha, loved Elizabeth's guest post! Especially the not showering part...Lol.
ReplyDeleteCongrats to DL Hammon! WOOT!
Still haven't decided if I'll do A to Z this year. It was a blast last year, but I'm thinking of spending the month of April on a blog hiatus to try to get some writing/editing/querying done. We'll see.
@Leovi- Thanks!
ReplyDelete@Chemist Ken- It's nearly impossible to have people in your house and be happy.
@Lisa- Thanks!
@faraway eyes- yep, there is some truth there.
@Liz- perfect balance
@DMS- don't go too extreme!
@Mark- hugs and love to you too, brother.
@Deniz- that would be nice!
@Randi lee- so glad I caused you tears
@Michael- hugs to you too! All in good time- and I did go small press. I'm all about stepping through any door that opens for me.
@TBM- I can't give up the shower either
@Crystal- thanks!
@Toinette- OMgosh! You figured it out! I knew there was more to Alex than just clones.
@Sarah- same here. That's why I only play during holidays.
@EE- yep. Just be sure not to get a real job.
@Michael- glad you weren't making plans!
@Liesel- Sims can't multi-task like we do.
@Kristin- thanks!
Liz, I'm with you!
ReplyDeleteLexa, I did as well.
Kristin, either way works!
Elizabeth, LOVED your post! It's good to use humor to put things in perspective.
ReplyDeleteCongrats to DL! I've met Sarah in person and she is a blast! You'll have a lot of fun working with her.
The SIMS might be on to something, Elizabeth! A shame it would be really hard to live that way for long.
ReplyDeleteAww, I liked Peabody.
ReplyDeleteYou're right though, not the same feel as the original.
Sending out the Tweets.
Congratulations to all the new releases! Exciting! Hysterical post on how to become a best-selling author in one week. Love it!
ReplyDeleteThat list was hilarious, and I was starting to wonder what was up with it until I got to that last step. ^_^ I think there is something to giving things up if they're interfering too much with your writing, though. I wouldn't give up video games entirely, but I did give raiding in WoW a try recently and had to give it up because it was taking away from my writing time.
ReplyDeleteI'm already doing all those things and I'm not a best selling author! (Only kidding.) Funny post!
ReplyDeleteA lot of congratulations in order today!
Elizabeth had me going for a minute. Very catchy post. Alex, signed up for yet another of your blogfests. They are always worth it!
ReplyDeleteThey say it takes money to make money - leaves me out. :)
ReplyDeleteBut great lead in Elizabeth. Congratulations!
Umm...I definitely think I'll keep my family...and showers too:) Not much a point to beign a bestseller otherwise.
ReplyDeleteHa! Loved Elizabeth's piece.
ReplyDeleteAnd the Peabody & Sherman movie wasn't good? Bummed. I loved that cartoon as a kid.
Love the idea of earning $13,000 in royalties but not like that! Great post. Looking forward to the theme reveal for A to Z.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Alex for so much info!
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHahaha, Elizabeth's post made me laugh. If a writer has to sacrifice things for just one week, they may be tempted to do all those things ;) Anything more than one week is scary.
ReplyDeleteGreat post Elizabeth. Loved the comparison. :)
ReplyDeleteCongrats to JL, Lee, and Holy Ghost Writer on all their new releases, and to all who have their A to Z posts sorted out. This years party is another one I won't be able to attend. :(
shahwharton.com
OMGosh I used to play the SIMS until my desk top computer died. I played one of the game characters who was a writer. The further in his career the sicker he got. :)
ReplyDeleteCongrats to all those with new books and to those with good news!!!
Geez, I'm last. I keep forgetting you don't post on Wednesdays anymore. I'll be back Monday. :-) First off, You GO, DL! Wahooo!
ReplyDeleteElizabeth's title grabbed my attention real fast. Hahaha. I loved it. Too funny.
Feeling sad about Mr. Peabody and Sherman. We were looking forward to it. Now? Not so much. I'd rather spend the dollars on a worthwhile movie.
Congrats on the new releases.
Looking forward to your interview with the RiffTrax guys, Alex.
Nope Robyn .. I'm last last!!
ReplyDeleteElizabeth - oh I feel like you in Sim land ... the hip is starting work .. but some things just can't be done yet! I keep dreaming ...
So many new books still coming .. and then the Theme Reveal ... and the RiffTrax interview - I'd better do some homework on who they are ... ya I'm a third ager!!
Cheers to you both - Hilary
Fun stuff, Elizabeth!
ReplyDeleteScheduled the new tweet, Alex!
I SO wish I didn't have to write my Bachelor's thesis and could take part in the A to Z challenge. I just love everything about it, what a wonderful idea to connect bloggers like that. I'll make sure to visit blogs and keep hoping it works out next year :)
ReplyDeleteI took part in Joy's release party and won a free copy of Perfection and an Amazon G.C. Had loads of fun. Hi Liz, this fellow sleep deprived hermit writer and ghostwriter salutes you. We have blood and ink running through our veins. Sims writing life is weak, bring on the challenges. But stopping age progression, as long as I'm an adult, sweet. There is a real life baby stuck as a baby even at an adult age. Not sweet at all, no thanks. The Kargranades are coming and I can't get too scared because I have little idea of what it is. Can I safely poke that tentacle with a stick? Congrats all you new book authors and agent getters. Yup A-Z this year will be nuts. As a mionion only I get to peek at your stuff without writing the madness. Whoop.
ReplyDeleteCharity, wow!
ReplyDeleteRosey, thanks!
Mason, that's why I scaled back on my game time.
Kim, awesome!
Liz, so did I.
Thanks, Ava.
Beate, next year!
Sheena-kay, that's awesome. And no poking...
Hey, I've got an idea. You need a secondary Theme Reveal for people who have a cool theme idea but aren't brave enough to take on the A-Z challenge. It would the the Themes That Won't Happen Reveal.
ReplyDeleteNo? Yeah, I guess not.
I think Elizabeth's post shows balance is key for writers!
ReplyDeleteStill don't know what the Kargrandes are, but not long til April.
Very interesting Lock Time The Great Disaster by C. Lee McKinzie!!
ReplyDeleteYou mean I'm supposed to be taking showers and doing some housework?! Mmmm, no-one told me that :)
ReplyDeletePretty flowers I love the cover of Where the Hell Did She Come From? !
ReplyDeleteHmmm over $13,000 a week in royalties... That would be slightly more than I make in 3 months. I must be doing something wrong, Alex.
ReplyDeletePerfection does exist, but my senses are to limited to recognize it when it's staring me in the face.
That said, it's time for another nap.
You certainly had me sucked in Elizabeth:)
ReplyDeleteMost of the movies that are based on popular 60's/70's t.v. shows have been, IMO, dreadful, and that one is no exception. When I'd first seen the trailer, I couldn't believe that they would ruin a classic t.v. show like that.
ReplyDeleteAs for the A-Z Challenge, I am basically one and done. Last year was just way too much and sadly my blogging suffered for the rest of the year.
Father Nature's Corner
I like Elizabeth's list. Too funny.
ReplyDeleteGo DL & Joy! Great stuff going on for some great people!
Sign up for the theme reveal too. :)