Beach Writer in the Rocky Mountains
Beach Writer in the Rocky Mountains
Alice M. Batzel
Published Author, Playwright,
Journalist, Poet
WELCOME TO THE BLOG!
The landing spot to stay connected:
What's happening in my writing world, or my world in general.
What I'm writing and researching.
Exciting news!
Special events and offers!
Upcoming GIVEAWAYS!
BLOG POST - JAN. 6, 2023
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"ENDINGS AND NEW BEGINNINGS"
INTRO:
Farewell to 2022, and Welcome to 2023! Alas, time for a bit of a check-up. For me, it begins by looking back. Time to "boot out the bad" or eliminate what isn't working. Then clearly look ahead to determine what I want to accomplish and where I want to be. Then comes the plan outlining what I need to do to get there. Finally, place the welcome mat to usher in the hope of achieving good things AND GET TO WORK. In that light, I acknowledge that I have the power to improve some things in this new year and try some new stuff too. I also recognize that I can discard things that don't bring value to my life. Likewise, I accept that some things are out of my control. So here goes with a bit of a "check-up."
WRITING, PUBLISHING, AND AWARDS:
2022 brought some opportunities for awards with some of my published work from 2021. I received a Bronze Typewriter Award and a Gold Quill Award in 2022 from the League of Utah Writers. These were very gratifying. The publication of two humor stories in the Utah Humor Anthology Project, Vol. 3, has encouraged me to write more humor. It's interesting how publications and awards acknowledge and encourage writers. I'm grateful for the publishing opportunities; any awards are "icing on the cake." Anyone who knows me knows how much I love a good piece of cake. You can see those awards on the "Awards Page" of my website. The related published works are also linked there. My "Published Page" is updated throughout the year with electronic marketing/purchasing links.
2023 WRITING UNDERWAY:
I want to finish and publish a few underway projects. Included are a middle-grade fiction/detective mystery, two humor stories, a romantic comedy novel, a Christmas novel, and a television comedy sketch. A few poems will probably find their way into my writing hours too. I'll continue to post my publishing news on my Facebook social media page and the "Published Page" of my website. I'm also focusing on accomplishing more in my family history research. It will be a busy year in my home office, and I hope my computer is up to the task.
WEBSITE REDESIGN:
The beginning of a new year finds me wanting to declutter and organize things. I put that impulse into my website and spiffed it up a bit. I'm still working on it, but it's improving, and I'm pleased with the changes I've made. I invite you to visit my website often and see how things are changing, updating, and evolving. I welcome comments and interaction with my visitors. Please contact me on my "Contact Page" if you'd like to; I look forward to hearing from you.
MY HOMEFRONT:
My residence also receives a significant interior overhaul, cleaning, downsizing, and organizing effort as the new year begins. Overall, the results show the effort to be well worth the required sweat and sore muscles. Thanks to a local charity organization, my donated items are now finding new homes.
My home experienced many construction projects during the last half of 2022. All windows were replaced, and custom interior window shutters were installed. Those two things are helping to keep the house warmer and quieter. A variety of senior safety features also were installed. The work has been beneficial, but I'm happy to close the construction and cap the expenses. There are more projects to do in 2023.
After several years of drought, including a lack of winter snow, Utah is getting blasted with snow and arctic temperatures this winter. The ski resorts are already heavily laden with snow beyond prior annual records. Storms continue to roll across the great Rocky Mountains and pound us with snow and rain. I hope the moisture will be sustained and help our parched state. Our irrigation reservoirs and the shrinking Great Salt Lake are in desperate need of water. The ski industry has been favorably impacted by the winter storms, except for the increase in avalanche danger and occasional canyon closings due to impassable snow-packed roads. It will undoubtedly be a winter to remember.
THE TIMES IN WHICH WE LIVE:
At the beginning of another year, we see that the COVID pandemic is still causing global havoc. Thankfully, the vaccine and boosters are helping to restrain the severity of the virus except for new variants surfacing and taking more lives. I'm adding my prayers to those of many other individuals that 2023 will finally eradicate this health monster.
A lot of national unrest and global conflict have been very worrisome. I hope 2023 will bring positive changes. Goodness knows we could sure use a hefty dose of that.
FACING FORWARD, MOVING ONWARD:
Let's all keep reading and writing in this new year of 2023. Yes, life needs to be lived, and challenges need to be tackled; but including a bit of reading and writing helps to keep the survivor mentality active. I'm grateful for all the good in my life, family and friends, health, faith, and fortitude to endure difficulties. Best wishes for a happy and healthy new year! I hope to see you around the bookshelf!
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - OCT. 4, 2022
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"SPECIAL INVITATION TO WRITE"
CHOCTAWHATCHEE
HIGH SCHOOL
CLASS OF 1971
50TH REUNION
October 21-22, 2022
As a person ages, there comes a point in time when each decade is marked by another high school reunion. Last year, 2021, was the 50th year of my high school graduation. That's right...I'm an ancient person. The Covid-19 pandemic put a halt to a formal gathering and celebration of the hallmark of the 50th reunion of my graduating class. The reunion was rescheduled for the 2022 year, in conjunction with homecoming festivities at the high school. Thankfully, the pandemic health crisis has improved sufficiently that the reunion committee was able to proceed with the plans for a grand celebration. I, however, would not be able to make the 2,000-mile trip to attend. As a senior class officer, Secretary, of my 1971 graduating class, I hated to miss this historic celebration. I was very pleased to receive a special invitation to write something that could be read at some time during the reunion, printed in a program, or accessed electronically.
I conducted an alumni careers poll on our group's Facebook page, and it produced a favorable response. The careers of many of our deceased classmates were also included in the responses. I took those responses, along with additional replies received through private email, phone calls, text messages, and compiled an illustrative report. It was surprising and gratifying to see how many sectors of society have benefited from the careers of our alumni. I also wrote a reunion address. I placed the alumni career poll results and the reunion address on a dedicated page of my writer's website so that reunion attendees and the many who would be unable to attend could have a friendly landing place to mutually reminisce and celebrate our 50th year reunion. During the month of October 2022, a link to my website's dedicated reunion page will be provided on our group's Facebook page. It has been a privilege to have the opportunity to write the reunion address and provide a collaborative/inclusive effort that will help celebrate the 50th reunion of our graduating high school class of 1971.
The reunion address and the alumni careers poll results can be read at this link: https://www.alicembatzel.com/chs-1971-senior-class-50th-reunion
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - SEPT. 8, 2022
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"SPECIAL INVITATION TO BE A GUEST READER AT HELICON WEST"
also known as
"READY, SET, GO...WHAT HAPPENED?"
When an author receives an invitation to be a reader in a public gathering, it's an honor. But the trepidation of public performance soon sets in for many authors. For this particular invitation, the venue would not be in my community. I was provided the opportunity to participate through a Zoom connection. I would be reading my poem, BEACH THERAPY, which had recently received the Bronze Typewriter Award from the League of Utah Writers annual writing contest, published poetry category.
I rehearsed the public reading numerous times, selected a virtual beach background for my broadcast, and I dressed in similar beach attire in an effort to provide a complementary setting/mood for my poetry reading. At the appointed time, I checked into the Zoom room and waited. Silence. Silence. Silence. I called the program coordinator and inquired about our connection. I was told that "the internet was down." Apologies. Technology had failed me and the host. Thankfully another author/colleague in attendance agreed to read my poem in person for the event. Many thanks to Author Emily Brooksby Wheeler for that gracious substitution.
Sometimes honors don't come easily, or at all. Still, I'm grateful to have received the special invitation, and grateful that I had the virtual exercise so that I will be prepared for a similar future occasion. Alas, technology can be both friend and foe.
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - AUGUST 13, 2022
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"WRITING CONTESTS: SUBMIT, WAIT, WAIT, WAIT, AND THE WINNER IS..."
You can read my award-winning published poem, BEACH THERAPY, and see more of the award at this link:
https://www.alicembatzel.com/beach-therapy
My poem, BEACH THERAPY, won a BRONZE TYPEWRITER AWARD in the PUBLISHED POETRY DIVISION, in the annual writing contest hosted by the League of Utah Writers. This award meant a lot to me. I experienced a significant amount of soul-searching and personal reflection as I wrote, revised, and polished this poem. I'm grateful to my publisher (2021), The Writers Cache, for publishing my poem in their book, SOUL, SAND, AND SKY, Poems and Stories of the Great Outdoors.
In the coming weeks I hope to spend a lot of time reviewing the judges' comments about each of my contest entries. The judges' feedback is extremely valuable. Some writing competitions don't share feedback with authors. But I find it to be helpful, especially with unpublished works, so that an author can rework their piece and improve it prior to future submission for publication consideration. However, I've found it's essential to remember that the judges' feedback is primarily the personal opinion of one or more judges, and if the opinions are polarized it's not as helpful and actually more reflective of individual stylistic preferences of the judges. If, however, there are similarities in comments from the judges, a great deal of consideration can be taken with the feedback in the spirit of constructive criticism.
Best wishes to all of my writing colleagues as they submit their writing to contests. Win or lose, always keep your creative voice true to yourself. It's not just about winning awards, prize money, or receiving cash royalties for published work, though all are greatly appreciated by authors. The value of a writer's unique voice expressed through their creative writing should never be underestimated or discounted.
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - JANUARY 31, 2022
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"NEW YEAR, SAME PANDEMIC, CHANGING MY COURSE!"
NO EXEMPTION:
We have begun a new year, still living with the Covid pandemic. I offer my sincere sympathy and condolences to those who have lost friends or family members to the pandemic. Our family has experienced Covid among the adults and the children. Thankfully, we have not lost a family member thus far. At times, we have felt held captive by this invisible viral predator in our life. But as we follow the guidelines for health and safety, we have felt relief and are coping.
Many people initially thought the pandemic would be over in months. But it has now been over two years wherein we have coexisted. The virus has evolved, morphed, and presented additional problems. It has become clear that our daily lives have had to change so that we can live with this most undesirable invisible foe in our midst. Despite the pandemic, other trials still come. Such as my cracked tooth, related necrotic infection requiring a root canal and a crown in December…an unwelcomed Christmas gift to myself. Life goes on. No exemptions.
ADAPTING FOR RESILIENCE:
My husband and I increased our in-home self-quarantine efforts to minimize potential public exposure to the pandemic. We became fully vaccinated and boosted. We wore, and continue to wear, KN95 masks anytime we leave our home. We use a high-efficiency HEPA air purification/filtration system in our house that helps to keep our air clean and healthy. We limit in-person grocery shopping; we utilize online grocery ordering and home-delivery services. Our church worship and other conferences are done virtually over the internet. I prepare all our meals, including baking. We've implemented protective measures with our home regarding visitors. Our choices might not be the same as others, but they are what we deem appropriate for us. We've utilized technology to stay in contact with others. I've become quite savvy with the electronic shopping system. My contributing effort has helped keep individuals employed in that industry!
It's been heartening to see truck drivers transporting food and supplies to the grocery stores are more acknowledged and valued than before. Individuals delivering packages and mail to homes are more appreciated than before. Teachers and other public service employees are more valued and appreciated. Our medical professionals are seen as heroes making tremendous sacrifices. Yes, there have been individuals who protest and reject various preventive measures related to the pandemic. But many other people have embraced precaution and positively changed how they live and view their everyday lives. Civility and tolerance have been tested. Some changes have been challenging, but many have provided safety and improved the life and perspective of the public.
WIELDING THE PEN:
At the beginning of 2021, I made many writing goals. Then reality kicked its way in. The Covid pandemic morphed into a more menacing monster, and I had to make changes. This included making changes in my writing life. At times I felt that I had abandoned my writing. But the reality is that when I needed to cope with difficulty, be uplifted, and grasp on to hope, I reached for my pen. It pleased me that despite the impact of the pandemic, some of my writing received publication in 2021. Some of my new poetry and short stories were published. You can check my website's 'published' page to see those accomplishments. I confess that my writing efforts are not as robust as I would like because managing life is my priority. I write whenever I get the opportunity, but I realize that the required changes in my life have limited my time to do so.
LESSONS I HAVE LEARNED FROM THE PANDEMIC:
•There will be unforeseen roadblocks and disappointments in life.
•Personal conviction is empowering.
•Accepting differences propels civility.
•Change not only risks closing doors but also creates opportunities.
•Moving in new directions can be a catalyst for moving forward.
•The power of hope is beyond measure.
•Gratitude and determination can overcome obstacles.
•Being vulnerable is not weakness; it is being human.
•Interpersonal relationships have wealth beyond tangible treasure.
LOOKING AHEAD:
I am looking ahead. I am moving forward. Yes, the pandemic has uncovered unpredictability and instability within daily life and even within the realm of science. Nevertheless, it has also propelled science and medicine into new arenas of discovery, achievement, and success. So, too, we must allow ourselves to live with the unpredictability of the Covid pandemic and future pandemics and move onward. As we use lessons learned, intelligent thought, and reason in personal decision-making, we can move forward in new ways. Life may seem confined at times, but we can look ahead and move onward. I have found that self-protection, self-reliance, being informed, and being proactive are proven life-sustaining skills. I choose to embrace life and move forward, albeit cautiously, but surely. I will live my life. I will write about it. I will dream and hope. I will write about that too. I am a writer, and I am grateful for the mere opportunity.
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - JUNE 17, 2021
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"SUMMER DAYS ARE NOT LAZY"
It's the middle of June 2021, and daytime temperatures over 100 degrees have already repeatedly been experienced in my northern Utah rural community. The drought is historic, vivid, and very real. Wild fires break out easily and spread quickly. We need moisture, and prayers are being offered by many. Adherence to water usage guidelines, conservation, and accountability are currently by the honor system. But stricter regulations and penalties could become commonplace as the scorching days roll ahead.
This summer is proving to be a busy one. Life is constant with challenges. Thankfully, my health is holding up, though my stamina sometimes falters. I'm pleased that my writing has found opportunities to be squeezed in here and there, even if at 3:00 a.m. when the air becomes cooler and life quiets down. I'm working on several projects simultaneously:
(*) I'm working on final edits of a humor piece that has a quickly approaching deadline. I'll have submitted two stories to that publisher for consideration in their next publication, and I'm hoping they'll find a place in that humor anthology. Goodness knows, we can sure benefit from some laughter during our post-pandemic experience.
(*) I'm working with an editor to polish four of my poems which have been accepted for publication in an anthology to be released in July.
(*) I'm doing revisions and edits on a collection of nonfiction and fiction Christmas stories that I'd like to pitch to a traditional publisher in July.
(*) I'm diving deeply into drafting a fiction mystery for middle-grade readers; after all, even kids can be good detectives! The story takes place in my childhood neighborhood. I'm hoping that I can do a hybrid publication of that manuscript by Halloween 2021.
(*) I'm writing a piece for my 50th high school reunion's closing banquet. This invitation is especially meaningful to me as I reminisce of how quickly those 50 years have passed. Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend the reunion which is 2,000 miles away. I was one of the senior class officers, Secretary. Having someone read my words to my alumni is a sweet opportunity, and I feel very grateful and honored to have received the invitation.
(*) As is expected, I'll be working on numerous copyright applications throughout the summer and fall months.
On the home front, a number of home-improvement projects will be underway throughout the summer. Though they are mostly maintenance and safety improvements rather than fashionable upgrades. As a matter of fact, today, I brought window screens to the hardware store for repair and rebuilding, and we consulted with a landscaper last night. Hopefully, cement work will be done in the next few weeks. Most of these projects are just to keep up with the 20+ years we've lived in our home.
I renewed my driver's license, and I was thrilled that it didn't require cataract surgery or some other senior citizen warning. I even had a good-hair day for the photo. However, I wasn't pleased with having to state my correct weight. Oh well, time is a truth teller.
One thing that I'm especially looking forward to this summer is seeing one of my sons and his family. Pandemic isolation precautions have robbed many people of such precious reunions. The safety efforts, however, have helped us realize the sweet opportunity that each of us has with continued life, health, and togetherness. We are very aware that it's to be cherished, for many individuals and families globally haven't had the same experience.
As you can see, with good reason, I'm definitely feeling that SUMMER DAYS ARE NOT LAZY. But as long as I can be healthy, remain upright and breathing, my brain cells functioning, I'll be grateful. Goals have been set, work is underway, and progress is being made. Let's see how the summer continues to move ahead.
THANK YOU for being my friends, associates, colleagues, and family. Have a safe summer. Be thankful for every drop of rain. May we be kind to one another, and give thanks for every good thing.
Author Alice M. Batzel
P.S. During the busy summer months, whenever I'm absent from social media, I can be reached as follows:
(email) writer@alicembatzel.com
(website) https://www.alicembatzel.com/*-contact
BLOG POST - MAY 15, 2021
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"KEYBOARD ALIENS"
Well. What can I say? I’m a writer. Yes. However, not much writing is getting done. Strange things are happening to my keyboard because it's not getting the daylights pounded out on it like it needs. Life has called and I answered the phone. I'm hoping to get back to finishing two humor stories before the deadline. That's the goal. But I refuse to feel defeated just because I'm falling behind on my writing goals for 2021. I mean, we are still trying to recover from a pandemic. And it's not like I'm just doing nothing. After all, I have washed a lot of laundry, shopped for a new washer and dryer, vacuumed the carpets, dusted, changed sheets, cooked numerous meals, baked items from scratch, washed dishes, took inventory of the safety deposit box at the bank a couple of times, got my PIN reprogrammed for the ATM, picked up pharmacy items, did grocery shopping, prepared crepes for the first time (awesome!), made Belgian waffles (out of this world wonderful!), went to the dentist, went to the dermatologist, had a mammogram, made an appointment with a new family doctor, drove out of town for errands, prepared new tax files, wrote and mailed a check to the Utah State Tax Commission, scrubbed/mopped the floor, changed bed sheets, cleaned out the freezer, organized and took a giant load of clothing and household items to the DI and unloaded the car by myself when I got there, cut my own hair, packed away winter clothes and then unpacked and laundered spring/summer clothes, made homemade rolls, and I killed a spider.
It feels pretty good to have accomplished all of that stuff. Yes, there still is a lot more to be done, and I'll get back at it again when I get up again in the morning. But, at this pace, I haven't gone to bed yet, and now the sun is coming up. On the top of the to-do list is scrub the tub and shower walls. Goodie. Don’t misunderstand me, please. I’m grateful that I’ve not had to extinguish a kitchen fire, nor have I needed to manually lift up the double garage door. And I’m very thankful I haven’t had to bust my giant golf umbrella to kill a mouse in the house. But, for crying out loud, I would like to sit and read a book or do some writing to meet the goals that I made at the first of the year. But it will have to wait. As I said, life has called, and I answered the phone. Maybe some vegetables will grow in those sprouts on the keyboard. Let's hope so. It would save me a trip to the produce department at the grocery store.
P.S. To my writing friends/colleagues, this has not been edited or put through spell check. I don't have time for that. The buzzer is blasting on the clothes dryer, and I have to get that load out before it catches fire, or the smoke alarm goes off. Priorities, people. Priorities.
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - MAY 1, 2021
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"UNMASKING THE WRITER'S LIFE"
A writer's life is not what the general public thinks it is. Writers aren't always sitting and dreaming, writing, reading, plotting, outlining, revising, receiving royalty checks, and accepting awards. Far from it. You have to live life, and sometimes it gets very, very hard. A writer is 'driven' to write, but life often pulls a writer away from the solitude of their creative process. Sometimes there are unexpected unpleasant life challenges that must be faced urgently, such as sickness or injury. Sometimes you receive bad news about essential things. Some challenges are temporary, and some are potentially terminal. Sometimes life's obstacles look like steep mountains that are too treacherous to climb. There are times when you have to put everything on hold and nurse someone else's health, heart, or soul. Sometimes it's your heart that gets smashed. When life's experiences disable us emotionally, you cannot write because you have to pick up the pieces, sort it all out, and, well, just breathe. Life still has to be lived. Writing often has to wait its turn. Sometimes, writing has to wait a very, very long time.
My silver-white hair testifies that I've lived a good many years. I've learned that life doesn't get easier the older that you get. You'll be disappointed if you think you'll have a lot more time to write when you retire. Life gets more complex with age and maturity. Challenges don't get smaller. Your back weakens, your strength lessens, your heart can still break, and there are plenty of disappointments just around the corner. Life can still become fragmented and complicated. But I've also learned that the pieces get gathered, picked up, sorted through, and you can claim private moments to collect your thoughts. Strength and courage can be rebuilt, and eventually, you can reclaim your solace in writing.
However, let's certainly not forget the many positive and happy events of life that also pull a writer away from their writing. There are birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, graduations, weddings, and a myriad of other celebrations to observe. While you're rounding out the list, add non-writing employment, professional obligations, religious/charity contributions into the mix. It's a wonder that a writer ever gets any writing done!
Here's to all my friends and colleagues in the writing community...onward with living life! Make no apology for it! Though writing deadlines are very real in a writer's world, they seem trivial compared to the magnitude of life's deadline, which deservedly demands greater attention. I intend to embrace the charge, "Onward with living life, while picking up the pieces!" Life is often the inspiration for writing. Write when you can, and always live life fully and gratefully.
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - APRIL 17, 2021
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"BACK INJURY RECOVERY, AND MOVING FORWARD WITH WRITING"
What a difference time, rest, medication, and cautious physical therapy can make! There currently is hope on the horizon, and daily victories are being achieved!
I'll admit, my recent back strain was the worst back-related setback I have ever experienced. My expectation for recovery was negatively impacted as well. Activities of daily living had already been affected by the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic's home isolation that my husband and I had observed for the past year. At least I had been able to freely move about in our home, both upstairs and in the basement. However, with the onset of my back injury, I became confined to my bedroom and specifically to my bed. This additional limitation of confinement was quite a challenge for me.
The good news is that after many days I could see gradual improvement, and I was able to steadily regain mobility, ambulation, and resume activity throughout the home. With that victory came the opportunity for me to return to my home office and continue my writing. However, I had to gradually build up my time of sitting at the computer. At this point, I feel in good health; I have good mobility, though I do have to continue with gentle yoga and guard my movements so that I won't reinjure my back. I'd say that shouting "VICTORY" is justified!
More good news is that I've been able to submit some of my poetry to a couple of anthologies for publication consideration. TODAY, I received notification that one has been accepted for publication! What good news! I'm currently writing two short stories to submit for publication consideration in a humor anthology. I'm polishing a new piece of poetry for a writing contest. I'm also working on a small collection of Christmas short stories that I hope to get published later this year.
It feels good to be writing again. My back injury taught me, again, that setbacks come throughout our life. Some can literally lay us down. During those times, we have the opportunity to meditate, read/study, rest, and heal. I feel thankful for the healing and improvement. I just wish the misery didn't have to come first. That's life. I'm glad to be living life, but I'm still learning how to navigate among the alligators along the way. And yes, the experience has given me some new writing material. After all, I am living a writer's life.
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST -
MARCH 26, 2021
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"BACK INJURY IMPEDES WRITING"
I have to admit, a back injury can lay a person right down. Now, I can say it from experience. My writing efforts have been sharply curtailed because sitting in front of the computer was abruptly halted for nearly three weeks. Moving an exercise bike from one end of the house to the opposite was not a smart thing for me to do; but I did it. My back "reminds" me of that poor decision, and its cautionary whispering guards my every movement. Computer time is minimally returning with a trickle of tolerance to sitting for a limited period of time. Nevertheless, during this "down" time I have been able to refine some poetry for submission to two anthologies, and I hope to receive a favorable response. My mind is churning with ideas and desire to get back to my story writing, but my back is not cooperating quite enough to spend the necessary time at the computer. Life has called, and my gradually building mobility is reserved for accomplishing daily living activities. Writing will take a backseat for a while. It's been frustrating for sure, and using a laptop computer while reclining on a heating pad is not for me. This is a good time for reading, study, and meditation. Time is never lost when we can change gears. Though I do hear my desk calling...
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - JAN. 26, 2021
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"WINTER BRAIN FREEZE"
It happens every year. I can count on it. My writer's brain experiences WINTER BRAIN FREEZE. Without question, I'm looking forward to spring thaw! Until then, I find myself reminiscing of warmer times and places of my youth. Come along with me as I journey back a few years. Perhaps you can relate! Read about it here: https://www.alicembatzel.com/%22g_r_i_t_s_%22
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - JANUARY 5, 2021
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"NEW YEAR'S WRITING GOALS WITH FELLOW WRITERS"
I'm encouraged by the goals that some of my writing colleagues expressed at our monthly Brigham City Writers (League of Utah Writers Chapter) meeting tonight. It looks like there's going to be some serious writing, editing, illustrating, and publishing going on in our small group while the pandemic continues to hold us hostage in 2021. Here are just a few goals that were shared by our members tonight:
1) Write a collection of short stories and self-publish it.
2) Complete a collection of Christmas short stories (fiction and nonfiction) and pursue publication.
3) Self-publish another humor anthology.
4) Continue working on the memoir and tall tales of personal/family travel adventures.
5) Facilitate the self-publishing for another author's writing.
6) Contribute to an anthology to be published this year.
7) Team edit, format, and self-publish an anthology for our group.
8) Complete illustrations for a children's book, and self-publish it.
9) Learn a new illustration program on a newly acquired computer.
10) Complete the development of an innovative website that will serve to review books, promote/market books and authors, etc.
A lot of hard work is surely underway. Helpful insight and recommendations were given to one another in our open-forum discussion. I'm happy to be part of such a diverse group of creative individuals. Here's wishing for every one of these GOALS to be achieved in 2021!
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - DECEMBER 16, 2020
LAUNCHING GIVEAWAY - WINTER 2020
SUPPORTING HUMOR AUTHORS...As They End 2020 With Laughter.
Featuring the Utah Humor Anthology, Vol. 2, UTAH'S SPECIAL BLEND...Local Humorists Spill The Beans!
I am one of 12 authors whose humor writing is featured in this publication.
My two stories are:
(1) The Birds And The Bees
(2) Water Amusement Parks...The Truth Of It.
Three free copies of this book are being given away as a literacy promotional AND as a goodwill effort for Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic relief.
Visit the event page and join the free contest!
https://www.alicembatzel.com/giveaway-winter-2020
BLOG POST - JUNE 3, 2020
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
"THE VAULT - MY IDEA FILE"
For many years, I was unable to do the writing that I wanted to do. My artistic expression was suppressed by many things. Employment demands, raising a family, attending college, and living life received primary attention. It was survival mode. Also, supporting my husband's time-consuming work and his many artistic pursuits was a considerable time commitment and a commitment of the heart. I sometimes felt like I disappeared, that I became invisible. All the while, I was invested in keeping our family nurtured and directed, and for my husband's professional/artistic dreams to be achieved. In my exhaustion, I wondered if there would ever come a time when I would be able to do the writing that I longed to do.
During that time, I developed an IDEA FILE, which became a repository for my artistic hope. This file contained story outlines, character profiles, brief notations of character dialogue, observations of life, poems, essays, newspaper articles inspiring a story idea, drafts for magazine articles, unfinished stage scripts, and novel manuscripts, etc. Sadly, only snippets were what I had time to write. But at least I was writing…a little. It made me feel like my desire for writing was not doomed to forever be unfulfilled; it was kept alive in my idea file.
In time, when life's demands permitted a slice of time "for me," I would retrieve one of the items from my idea file and further develop it. If I didn't finish it, it would wait again in my writing vault until another day. Occasionally during those years, I was able to complete a few pieces and get them published. How encouraging! What a good feeling! As a writer, those publications proved to me that my life was not void of opportunity for my own artistic expression. Even if those earlier writing opportunities were just moments, those moments were savored, stored, developed, and then shared with readers.
Today, at age 67, my idea file continues to grow, though I now dip into it with more frequency. I've enjoyed my limited growing publication thus far, and I continue to learn more about the craft of writing. I learned much about life during the many years when my writing desire was suppressed. Those life lessons are often what fuels my writing today. I'm grateful that my idea file kept the hope alive that one day I would be able to write the stories that I longed to tell and write the poems that often reflect the footsteps of my life's path.
Sometimes I'm asked if I have any advice for someone who would like to be a writer. My answer is always the same: Learn about the craft of writing. Study the work of the authors that you most enjoy reading. Be honest in what you write. Do your best work whenever you have the opportunity to write. Be thankful for your desire to write, your writing talent, your appreciation for words, language, expression, and your voice as a writer. Always, always, always, keep an idea file, and feed it regularly.
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - MAY 20, 2020
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK
"LEAGUE OF UTAH WRITERS 2020 WRITING CONTEST"
Last week I completed the process of submitting a few entries in the League Of Utah Writer's 2020 Writing Contest. Wahoo! It felt good to finish all the editing, proof-reading, and push that "submit button" for each entry. With each year's contest, cash prizes for winning are always welcomed and eagerly anticipated. But one of the best features of the LUW's annual writing contest is that all entries receive feedback from a judge. That feedback consists of (1) a numerical scoring ballot on various technical aspects of writing composition, and (2) written comments stating what works well in your entry and what needs improvement. That dialogue can be of great value as the author reworks, revises, and polishes their piece before entering it in another writing contest or pursuing publication.
In the past, I've reworked some pieces several times from the judge's guidance, and it resulted in a better-written article, poem, story, or essay. There's always the chance that the writer may strongly disagree with the judge's perspective/opinion, and the writer's disagreement could be valid. Judging writing can be complex and complicated. Still, writers hope that a judge of poetry is well-versed in poetry and poetic composition. Similarly, writers hope that the judge of a romance novel is not a science fiction author, and vice versa. That's pretty basic, but I say it because sometimes weird things happen, and it can affect the outcome of a writing contest.
When you get your scoring ballot and the judge's comments, the writer also needs to remember that it's just one person's opinion. Yes, winning or losing a contest can be based on one person's scoring, one person's opinion. That's why it's essential to put your best effort into your work before you submit it. Putting the winner's pride and cash prizes aside, a writer must always own their work and maintain the vision of what they want their work to be.
So here's a shout-out to all my writing colleagues, first-time writers, friends, writing enthusiasts, GOOD LUCK with whatever writing contests you may enter! May your writing experience a favorable reception worthy of your hard work! Keep writing, keep reading, and I'll see you around the bookshelf!
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - APRIL 5, 2020
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK
"UPDATE ON WRITING PROJECTS"
After a very long cold winter, my brain cells are beginning to thaw and I'm delighted with the sensation! Long-awaited, and at long last, it has arrived. Plasma and blood flow are once again circulating in my head; I do love a good Spring thaw! Plotting, drafting, writing, and revisions are underway in my home office. I'm grateful that two anthologies that I've hoped to publish with during this year have recently extended their submission deadlines a little bit. With all the muck we citizens are dealing with concerning the COVID-19 pandemic the gracious extension of the deadlines was a welcomed gift. I'm currently in the final revision stage for each of my entries and plan to hit the "Send" button this week. Stay safe and stay well as we all continue to carefully navigate through the remainder of our nation's journey with the Coronavirus.
Author Alice M. Batzel
BLOG POST - JANUARY 2020
FROM MY WRITER'S DESK:
It was an honor to be invited to be a featured writer on the LDSPMA BLOG. My article, "From The Writer's Toolbox: Thematic Purpose," was published on January 27, 2020, and can be read at this link::https://www.ldspma.org/from-the-writers-toolbox-thematic-purpose/
BLOG POST - DECEMBER 2019
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
I hope you'll enjoy reading the short story that I've written for Christmas 2019.
"ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS TIME"
https://www.alicembatzel.com/once-upon-a-christmas-time
BLOG POST - OCTOBER 2019
GIVEAWAY - FALL/WINTER 2019
"CELEBRATING STORY AND VOICE"
Official launch date is October 15, 2019! This is a literacy promotional sponsored by my writer's website.
Check it out and participate to win FREE PRIZES: books, audio books, writing tools for young writers, and a Barnes and Noble gift card!
Full details here: https://www.alicembatzel.com/giveaway-fall-winter-2019
UPDATE: THIS LITERACY PROMOTIONAL ENDED Oct. 31, 2019.
A list of all the winners and their prize selection(s) has been posted to the event page.
BLOG POST - OCTOBER 2019
I'll be speaking at this free literary event at the Brigham City Library in Brigham City, Utah, on October 15, 2019. If you're in the area, I'd love to see you that evening!
Come and meet the 11 authors of SPIRALS, an anthology of prose and poetry from Utah's northern edge!
Hear about the inspiration behind each of their pieces in this publication.
Books will be sold and book-signing will be conducted at the end of the presentation.
