Wednesday, February 2, 2022

Insecure Writer’s Support Group, My Magic Summer, and Jeremy Hawkins Tribute


It’s time for another group posting of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group! Time to release our fears to the world – or offer encouragement to those who are feeling neurotic. If you’d like to join us, click on the tab above and sign up. We post the first Wednesday of every month. I encourage everyone to visit at least a dozen new blogs and leave a comment. Your words might be the encouragement someone needs.

The awesome co-hosts for the February 2 posting of the IWSG are Joylene Nowell Butler, Jacqui Murray, Sandra Cox, and Lee Lowery!

February 2 question - Is there someone who supported or influenced you that perhaps isn't around anymore? Anyone you miss?


My answer to that lies in the dedication today to Jeremy.

Thanks to everyone who participated in #IWSGPit – we were a trending topic!

We still need a couple more co-hosts for March and April – let me know if you are up to the challenge.


My Magic Summer Movie Influences

Today I welcome fellow author Brian Carmody as he discusses movies that influenced his new release, My Magic Summer: With the Moon Maidens.

Historically, I’m a screenwriter. It is only in recent years I’ve managed, extraordinarily, to actually start finishing novels, and, even more miraculously, find someone willing to publish them. But it’s hard for a zebra to change his spots, so I will acknowledge the cinematic influences on My Magic Summer with the Moon Maidens.

Summer of ‘42
Both Herman Raucher’s Summer and my own are bittersweet stories of first love steeped in nostalgia. I can’t condone the consumption of the former’s relationship, but nor can I deny the influence as a whole, and Michel Legran’s score is endlessly evocative.

Twilight
For the immersive romantic imagery and compelling portrayal of how frightening and fantastic a romance with a higher being can be.

Lady in the Water
M. Night Shyamalan's misunderstood fairy tale is a bedtime story, and you’re either on board or not. Personally, I found it very powerful, and the catharsis of The Healing was a big influence on my lunar climax.

A Monster Calls
In both our stories, a boy coping with his mother’s imminent demise receives guidance and wisdom from a supernatural source. But is it imaginary? Read our books and find out.

Finally, there is A Ring of Endless Light by Madeline L'Engle. This was adapted into a TV movie starring Mischa Barton and Jared Padalecki, but I have yet to see it for myself, so I cite the novel alone as an influence. Why the fantastical element of my Moon Maidens is more explicitly supernatural than Vicky’s possible ESP with the dolphins, both stories I would call magical realism that deal deeply with themes of faith, grief, and hope over the course of a very special season.


My Magic Summer
With the Moon Maidens

By Brian Carmody
Young Adult – Fantasy-Contemporary / Coming of Age / Boys & Men
Print ISBN 9781939844804 / EBook ISBN 9781939844811

Who are these moon maidens?

Summer of ’94 and Connor Whelan is excited to spend the last three months before his senior year with his uncle in Texas. Aware this trip is due to his mom’s cancer treatments, he still hopes this will be a season of magic.

He gets his wish when he encounters three magical women one night. Claiming to be from the moon itself, bewitching Iluna, flighty Eiru, and motherly Cassiopeia are about to make Connor’s last summer of childhood one to remember.

However, his interest in local girl Laura puts him in hot water with her tough boyfriend. His fascination with Iluna also confuses him. Will the moon maidens’ lessons about joy, wonder, and hope get him through this crazy summer?

An award-winning screenwriter and author, Brian Carmody is a dreamer, a wisher, a hoper, a prayer, a pretender and a magic bean buyer. He’s had moondreams from Texas to Virginia, and now California, where he has plenty of other flax golden tales to spin by his fire

Find My Magic Summer at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, iTunes, Kobo, Scribed, and Goodreads

Jeremy Hawkins Tribute


On January 3, we lost an amazing guy – Jeremy Hawkins.
On February 2, we are paying tribute and give back to one who was so giving and involved in our community.
To honor his life and support the family he leaves behind, on that day:
• Post a story or memory about Jeremy.
• Post photos of Jeremy.
• Share some of the graphics he made for you.
• Post a photo of you wearing one of the t-shirts he designed.
• And to support his family, purchase one of his t-shirt designs, one of his books, or one of his prints. (He also created the IWSG t-shirt.)

There are not words for how I felt when I found out Jeremy was gone. I’d known him over twelve years and he was one of my best blogger buds. Jeremy was the person who would do anything to help his fellow man, and here online that meant he did a lot of free graphics and featured his friends whenever possible. I had several guest spots and ads in the Six Strings magazine, and he made a ton of graphics for my books, for the IWSG, and for the A to Z Challenge. He was a very caring soul, and I remember when we lost Tina several years ago, that really hurt him.

Jeremy, I will miss you, more than you will ever know. You doubted yourself sometimes, but I never did. And you were always there, encouraging me with writing and blogging. God bless you.

I’d like to share some of the designs he did:



Is there someone who supported you? Able to help co-host the IWSG? Seen any of those movies? Picking up My Magic Summer? And what do you remember best about Jeremy?


93 comments:

Patsy said...

Most of those who directly encourage me in my writing are still with us, but there are those who encouraged me in everything, such as my grandparents who aren't. I miss them.

Elephant's Child said...

I didn't know Jeremy. Judging by the posts and the tributes I have read that is definitely my loss.

Pat Garcia said...

Hi,
Loss hurts. I'm going through it right now. Yet, I see a very positive side in that I was so happy to know her and I have wonderful memories in the treasure trove of my heart.

I can do March.

Have a great week, Alex.
Shalom aleichem

nashvillecats2 said...

I didn't know Jeremy as a blogger but am aware of his works through the pictures you have shown here. He will be sadly missed. Great post Alex.

Yvonne.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Thanks Alex - Jeremy was obviously a very unique guy ... who had amazing talent and a great outreach to others. I didn't know him - but did see his designs etc ... I wish his wife and family all the best - thanks for remembering him for us. Take care - Hilary

Truedessa said...

Good morning, I posted a little something in Jeremy’s memory today on my blog ‘Near Flowers’

I ,occasionally, commented on his blog. A creative individual.

I know he had a presence that will be missed.

Touching tribute to your friend…

Shady Del Knight said...

Hi, Alex!

Clearly Jeremy touched the lives of many in a positive way, including yours. In turn, I am touched by the tributes pouring in over the last few weeks as people remember and honor him. Jeremy's legacy is secure.

Recently, I read about Brian's book on another site, C-Lee's, and it stoked my interest. Summer of '42 is one of my favorite movies. "I was never to see her again. Nor was I ever to learn what became of her."

Enjoy the rest of your week, good buddy Alex!

Lynn La Vita said...

Thank you for the beautiful and heartfelt tribute to Jeremy. The pain of his passing is felt by all that knew him; especially you.

The two of you shared a rare gift of close friendship including nearly every aspect of your life. He is in your heart and will forever bring joyful memories. Watch for them. They will pop up when you least expect them. Peace my friend.

Lynn La Vita @ http://la-vita.us/

Natalie Aguirre said...

Thanks for sharing your memories of Jeremy. He sounds like a great friend and supporter of your writing. I'm so glad you decided to have those who knew him share memories about him.

And I should be scheduled as a co-host for March already. If you need me to co-host in April too, I'm glad to help out.

Jennifer Lane said...

How sad to hear about Jeremy. He created lovely graphics.

Congratulations to Brian!

Jemi Fraser said...

I'm so sorry for the loss of Jeremy. I'm afraid I didn't know him well - only through reading your posts over at his place. He sounds like a wonderful man who will be missed by many.

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

I'm very sad about Jeremy's passing. It's never easy losing a friend. He had a lot of talent. I think he thought highly of IWSG. I'm glad you were able to honour his contribution. And I'm available for April, Alex.

Pat Hatt said...

Can't say I've seen those ones.

Sure was a talented guy indeed. Never easy losing great friends.

Jan Morrison said...

Thank you for sharing your friendship with Jeremy so poignantly. I particularly loved his lighthouse design - he had real talent. I also am touched by your understanding that a friend that we may only interact with from afar is a full real friend. When our minds meet, we meet.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Thanks, Pat.

Shady, give it a read then.

Lynn, we did.

Natalie, you are!

Joylene, I think I have you down for that month.

Thanks, everyone.

Rachna Chhabria said...

Sadly, I didn't know Jeremy. He seems to be a wonderful person. I wish I had known him.

Erika Beebe said...

Jeremy sounds like such a wonderful, caring person. I'm sorry I didn't connect with him personally.

Congratulations Brian Carmody. I wish you much luck with your new release.

H. R. Sinclair said...

I'm sorry for your loss. He sounded like a very giving person.

Congratulations Brian! I have a guest post by Brian later this month.

Nick Wilford said...

I remember Jeremy well, and although I cannot say I knew him personally, he always seemed ready to offer his talents and support to all who needed them. Great tribute.

Brian's book sounds fun! Congrats to him.

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

That was a lovely tribute, Alex. Thank you for sharing.

Cathrina Constantine said...

A beautiful tribute to Jeremy! His designs are amazing! Losing someone close, or someone we've grown close with through blogging always breaks our hearts.

Diane Burton said...

I'm so sorry for your loss, Alex, and for everyone who knew Jeremy. I didn't have that good fortune. You posted a great tribute to him.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Thanks for featuring Brian today.

Jeremy was so talented.

Sandra Cox said...

What a lovely tribute to Jeremy. Such a creative soul.
Nice to see Brian featured here. I thoroughly enjoyed the read.

Mary Aalgaard said...

I have a couple t-shirts that Jeremy designed. He was very talented. What a wonderful connection you had with him, a fellow creative spirit.

Melissa said...

Congrats on the new release, Brian. Best of luck!

I'm sorry for your loss, Alex. Some of my blogging & writer friends are like family. I would feel totally gutted if I lost them.

Meka James said...

Jeremy sounded like an amazing man who touched the lives of many.

Jemima Pett said...

I didn't know enough about Jeremy, but I knew he did awesome graphics. He'll be missed.
I shall treat my Cassa covers with more care now :)
I could do April if you need another co-host...

Jemima

Tim Knight said...

Thank you for organising this great tribute to Jeremy.

I wrote some words and posted some pictures here.

Toi Thomas said...

Thanks for another great hop Alex.
Glad the #IWSGPit was a success.
Congrats to Brian Carmody on his release. It sounds like a cool read.
Lovely tribute to Jeremy.

diedre Knight said...

My condolences, Captain. May his memory and the bond of your friendship live long in your heart. Your touching tribute makes me wish I too had known him. I plan to purchase an IWSG T-shirt (first try didn't work) I love the new (to me) blue design.
"My Magic Summer" is definitely on my list!

Nancy Gideon said...

What a great tribute!! I hope he knew how well he was appreciated.

Steven Arellano Rose Jr. said...

That's really neat that IWSG became a trending topic! It shows that people are reading and talking about the the blog hop. Jeremy looked like he did some really good work. It's sad that he passed away so suddenly it sounds like. May he rest peacefully.

SpacerGuy said...

I've always considered Jeremy my blog pal from abroad. The blogsphere is a fast paced place full of good people and words. Its hard to keep up and now this, his death is so tragic. I remember Jeremys happy trekker spirit when he visited my blog full of good cheer.

Lynda Dietz said...

Wonderful tribute from you and others today for Jeremy. Such a positive influence, and definitely a giver.

Congratulations to Brian on the book release! I'm looking forward to picking that one up.

cleemckenzie said...

It's always hard to lose our buddies. And from the posts about Jeremy, he was a good and staunch, not to mention talented, friend. It's wonderful that you've organized a tribute to him.

Jenni said...

What a touching tribute to your friend Jeremy. It sounds like an amazing guy. We do have such a great community here.
And how cool that #IWSGPit is trending in UK!

Loni Townsend said...

So sorry for your loss, Alex. It's great to reflect on all the amazing things Jeremy did.

Elizabeth Mueller said...

I'm sorry for the loss of Jeremy. I don't remember him, but it always hurts to have someone I care for go. Also, it's sad when someone just up and vanishes without an explanation, never to be found again. :(

♥.•*¨Elizabeth Mueller¨*•.♥

Sadira Stone said...

I never had the pleasure of meeting Jeremy online, but it's clear his loss is deeply felt by many. Hugs.

talklady said...

I value your movie input. The early months of each year are traditionally devoted to movie binging to see for myself and absorb the Oscar buzz. So far I'm sticking with The Tender Bar - and note just for its writerly tones. Ack to The Power of the Dog - not even the ending's twist brought me under the power of this movie.

I won't reiterate my dear-departed writing mentors. I'll just say that all three are gone, but not forgotten. I'm grateful for the three that remain alive -

Liz A. said...

Very sad about Jeremy. I never really encountered him in my blogging travels, but I definitely heard of him. He will be missed.

Joanne said...

Great designs and Jeremy sounds like he was a wonderful guy. He leaves his mark and memory upon many and that's all that can be asked of in this world. It's the small touches that matter. Excellent salute.

kjmckendry said...

Congrats to Brian! My Magic Summer sounds like a super fun read!

Alex- Wonderful tribute post to Jeremy. He'll be greatly missed.

Anonymous said...

I'm so sorry for the loss of your friend. I didn't know Jeremy other than through your posts and his awesome graphics (the Ninja is priceless!). I know well there are just no words at a time of loss. ❤️

I'm co-hosting today, but I'm happy to pitch in again, if needed.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jan, you said it.

Diane, you're welcome.

Jemima, thanks.

Tim, I knew I needed to.

Diedre, cool you are getting a shirt.

PJ, haven't watched the Oscars in years. Too political.

Lee, thanks.

Thanks, everyone.

Tyrean Martinson said...

I miss Jeremy.
I have that t-shirt and it's been a way I've met other writers in my local area, so Jeremy's influence lives onward.

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

My love to you, Alex.
Thanks for being my connection with Jeremy's tribute and so, so much more.
I already want at least one more NeatoShop t-shirt. I'm hooked.

Nilanjana Bose said...

Beautiful tribute to Jeremy. Didn't know him personally but loved his on point sense of colour and his awesome badges for the A-Z.
So saddened by his loss. May his soul rest in peace and his family and friends find solace.

Carol Kilgore said...

I didn't have the pleasure of knowing Jeremy, but I know he will be missed by all. Love the title of Brian's new book!

Olga Godim said...

Great tribute to Jeremy. I didn't know him, but now I 'sort-of' do, thanks to you, Alex.

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

Nice way to remember Jeremy.

I'll have to check out " A Ring of Endless Light." I love L'Engle's books. :)

J E Oneil said...

There have been a lot of people who have disappeared into the internet over the years. It would be nice if it wasn't permanent, but sadly I think many are gone for good.

Fundy Blue said...

Hi, Alex! I've read Brian's book twice, and it is really good. You wrote a lovely tribute to your friend Jeremy. I can help co-host in April if you still need someone. Take care.

Rhonda Albom said...

I didn't really know Jeremy but after reading the comments, I wish I had. Beautiful tribute.

Jamie Ghione said...

I didn't know about Jeremy until I did the A to Z blogging event last year. It was my first time, and I loved the graphic he designed for last year's event.

Juneta key said...

What a wonderful tribute to a friend. I am sorry for you loss. I did not know him, but as others have said I wish I had.

Tonja Drecker said...

Congrats on the release, Brian!
I didn't realize Jeremy had done one of your covers, too. He will be missed.

Birgit said...

You wrote a beautiful tribute to your friend and I know he appreciates it. How could he not! He was very talented and I am glad his work will be around for a long, long time. My biggest influence was my mom and how I miss her so. It has been 4 yrs already and I just wish I could still speak to her. I really like The Summer of '42 but Twilight is ok...teen romance with fangs. I have not seen the other 2 but have wanted to see Lady in the Water.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Tyrean, that's cool.

Robyn, you're awesome! He's got some good ones. I ordered another. I think I have six or seven already.

JE, this is the fifth blogger friend who's passed. That I know of.

Louise, thanks!

Tonja, not the cover, just some ads for it.

Thanks, everyone.

Ray Rousell said...

A touching tribute to a man who's going to be missed.

Bish Denham said...

It's hard loosing a blogging buddy and you've written him a very nice tribute not to mention you've included a way to help his family.

Leigh Caron said...

A sincere tribute you've given him. He'll be missed. And congrats to Brian on the release of My Magic Summer. . The storyline is very interesting.

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

It looks like Jeremy had a huge impact.
Best wishes for the Moon Maidens' release.

Mason Canyon said...

What a lovely tribute to Jeremy. So sorry for the loss of your friend. I, like several others, didn't know him but wish I could have.

Yvonne Ventresca said...

What a wonderful tribute to Jeremy.

kimlajevardi.com said...

My condolences on your loss.

I can co-host in April.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

Congrats to Brian. I have two of Jeremy's t-shirts and have been so impressed with all the graphics I've seen attributed to him today. We lost a good one.

Janet Alcorn said...

What a lovely tribute to Jeremy!

I'd be happy to co-host. I haven't done it before but am absolutely up for it.

J Lenni Dorner said...

Hope you had a good IWSG day! I was under the weather earlier this week (not the C👾vid, don't worry), but I'm much improved now.
I've been scheduling debut author interviews at Operation Awesome. If you know one, please tell them to reach out to me.
Over at the a-to-z challenge, plans are hatching for April 2022, including a big event this month (starts Feb 4).
Plus, WEP has the "All You Need is Love" flash fiction challenge on February 16 - 18.
Quote for February: “You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.” -John Bunyan

You probably know what my March, April, and early May look like. 😯😲😵🤪🤯💣⏰💥💫❗⚠
But I can volunteer to co-host for July, October, and/or December in 2022. Let me know.

Brian Carmody -- excellent movie choices. Added two of these to my watch list. And added your book to my TBR.

I wish we had a master list of all of the tributes to Jeremy today.

Deniz Bevan said...

Congratulations, Brian!
Such a lovely tribute, Alex. I'll wear my shirt this weekend and try to remember to take a photo!

J.Q. Rose said...

I didn't know Jeremy. I have enjoyed his artwork here on IWSG. He was a giving man and your great friend. It's hard to say good-bye.

Arlee Bird said...

I've seen all of the movies listed except for A Monster Calls. My summers have all had plenty of magical times, but I've had a pretty magic life all around. Movies have definitely impacted me in my life and undoubtedly influenced my writing and the way I think about writing.

You pretty well listed some great attributes about Jeremy that I would also agree with. Hate seeing people like this leave us, but we're all destined for the same fate. Or maybe doorway depending on how we see it.

Arlee Bird
Tossing It Out

Michael Di Gesu said...

Hi Alex.

SO many people supported me over the years and still do! Ours is an AMAZING community with people who are always ready to lend a hand. There are TOO MANY to list, but they know who they are.

Yes, I have seen a few of the movies listed. All the best to Brian and his new novel. Congrats~ I plan to read his book this weekend! I am totally looking forward to it.

As for Jeremy, he will be greatly missed. I remember in my beginning blogger days that he was always humorous and bobbing around the blogosphere leaving snarky and fun comments on our blogs. His graphics were also impressive and I enjoyed seeing his newest creations. Although he has left this earth, his kind and loving spirit will be present...


Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Kim, thanks!

Janet, that would be great!

J, I will write those months down - thanks!

Deniz, please do!

Lee, it's a doorway to a better place, but hard for those of still stuck on this side.

Thanks, everyone.

Cherie Colyer said...

Jeremy's designs are amazing. Very sorry to hear he passed.

Mary Kirkland said...

I didn't know Jeremy but the tribute to him was really nice.

chickangell said...

I did not have the privilege of knowing Jeremy, but have known many in the community like him. They give so much of themselves and sometimes we forget to show our gratitude. Cheers for this wonderful memorial for Jeremy. I urge us all to thank the Jeremy's in our lives. Off to thank mine now.

Gwen Gardner said...

God Bless Jeremy!

I can help co-host. April is probably best, then I can plug your new release as well ;)

Victoria Marie Lees said...

Unfortunately, I didn't know Jeremy, Alex. But the designs he created will live on in his memory. Here's to Jeremy! May he be in peace. Thanks for all you do, Alex. Have a beautiful weekend!

Shannon Lawrence said...

It's wonderful that his art will live on, but he'll definitely be missed. Thank you for sharing your memories of him.

Al Penwasser said...

I remember my first love.
She doesn't remember me.
I'm sure this is heartbreakingly pitiful and sad.

mail4rosey said...

I'm sorry to hear about your friend. I was thinking the other day about some of the bloggers who have passed. We often don't meet each other, but it's still a community of friends, albeit not in the typical manner of friendship and it hurts when someone we care about is gone. :(

Elizabeth Seckman said...

I was going to post a picture of myself in my IWSG tee shirt, but I need a bit larger one. So, that will be my tribute...buy another shirt soon. I never knew him, but from all the posts I've read- he sounds like he was an amazing, talented guy.

Ronel Janse van Vuuren said...

Jeremy was a very talented guy and will be sorely missed.

Sandra Cox said...

Hey Alex,
If you don't get enough signups you can put me down for April.
YOU have a great one.

Sandra Cox said...

Jeremy did some fabulous designs. I love them.

Carrie-Anne said...

I didn't know Jeremy very well, but he always seemed like a great guy who was on the level. May his soul be gathered up into the bonds of eternal life.

Sandra Cox said...

AND a great weekend.

Denise Covey said...

jEREMY will be sorely missed.

Al Penwasser said...

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, the Summer of '72!
Dippity-Do, Acne, and Inconvenient Boners.
Good times.

lostinimaginaryworlds.blogspot.com said...

Hello Alex,

I wonder if you could help, please? I am back again. find that I can't edit my bloglist, and when I tried to add a comment to Diane's post it bounced back having been sent to some porn blog....

I see that on my bloglist there is another blog that is listed beneath hers.... I have pasted this below...

Diane Burton
#WeWriWa ~ The Case of the Wedding Wrecker: Wait For Me - Welcome to Weekend Writing Warriors, where writers share snippets from their work-in-progress or new release. Thanks to everyone who stopped by last week. ...
8 hours ago
Dreamers, lovers, and Star Voyagers
WeWriWa: ATNS7 - Welcome to a weekly post of Weekend Writing Warriors. If you'd like to check it out or give it a try, click here to go to wewriwa.blogspot.com I'm work...
10 hours ago
Thanks, Carole.

lostinimaginaryworlds.blogspot.com said...

Sorry Alex, after much trying have not managed to edit my bloglist, but I'm still concerned about adding a comment to Diane's post and having it bounce back as a porn address.

Carole.