Tuesday, December 27, 2011

The End of December 2011


Well here I am again, updating my blog. It is a rainy day on the home front today, but at least it is not snow. I really can do without that stuff, however, I know it is coming. Back home in Ohio they are already getting snow, so I know it is coming our way.

I hope the last month of the year has been good to everyone, but you know what, I am so looking forward to January and a new year. I have high hopes and great dreams for 2012. In my case, I am hoping that the new year will be brighter and better because 2011 was not all that great....too many problems that were out of my control. I hate it when I can't fix something that has gone astray or just plain messed up. For 2011, life has dealt us a lot of uncertainties and high mountains to climb. But, all in all, we are still here hanging in there, so I am thinking that God has something good in store for us because we have been patient and steadfast in our faith.

Oh, in a couple of days guess what.....we will be celebrating our wedding anniversary. We got married in 1974 on New Years Eve. We will be married 37 years. I've actually been with my husband since I was 16, going through the boyfriend/girlfriend stages. Our relationship started out in Ohio and here we are today in Washington DC. I wonder where will be in the future, because quite frankly, I've had enough of our Nation's capital. After all, I am not a city girl!

Another thing for the end of December, 2011; I found another publisher for my new book. Well, it hasn't been accepted yet. I had to send in a query letter, a synopsis and the first chapter to the publisher to see if they are interested in the content. I hope they turn out to be better than the last wish-washy publisher that I pulled it from. The waiting period for their answer is 4 weeks, could be longer than that because publishers do get swamped with manuscripts. You have to grab their attention within the first couple of paragraphs. I truly hope I've done that with this story idea. If it is accepted, this will be my first book for the new year. So my reading buddies, keep your fingers crossed and say a prayer, for I am on a mission to get published.....again.

Well, it is time for me to go and refresh my cup of coffee, time to get my day started. Actually, it already started for I have checked my mail, made my presence on Facebook and checked on my fish in AquaLife. That's just some game I am addicted to. Now it is time to go do my thing on Twitter. Oh yeah, I'm a tweeting kind of gal too. Since I am not babysitting today, I have a lot of time on my hands today. But trust me, I have plenty to do so I will not be sitting down twiddling my fingers wondering what to do with myself.

All in all, the end of December is alright with me.I am not going to complain because God is in control.

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

December Ranting: Before There Were Computers


Wow, tis the season to be jolly! Yeah right, at the moment there is nothing jolly about it. I am sitting here with a long face, all because my computer is not working as it should. Woe is me, for there is so much to be done and I can't do it. This bring me way down in the dumps. But the bad part is....a technician will not be here until the 20th, and today is just the 13th. Both phone service and internet service are in need of repair, for lines are criss-crossing somewhere. However, today I did manage to check my email and leave an updated status on Facebook, while the green light was flashing, signaling that I could get on the internet. But, the thing went out again, so I am back at square one....being frustrated. Now would be a good time for a back up system, however, if the problem is in the phone lines, a back up system would be useless.

This reminds me of the days before computers. How did we ever manage our days before we had internet and telephones? Do you remember? For one thing, I bet housewives or stay at home moms had clean houses, spotless from top to bottom. However, I've already done that this past weekend, when the troubles began. I was even in the mood to rearrange furniture, which I did and I wore myself out doing it. But since the phone and the internet were going bonkers, I did the next best thing to occupy my time, became a busy little housewife.

I am hoping the green light starts to flash again, for when it does, I plan on transferring this ranting to my blog, if it allows me. Well do you see that? Before there were computers/internet and phones, people wrote their writings/rantings down on paper. This I had already done while drinking my first cup of coffee this morning. I just took out the old stand by me....the writing tablet and pen and jotted down what I wanted to say. Sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do, so I did.

So how will I fill the remainder of this day......I plan on fixing a big dinner to occupy my empty time without a working computer or phone service. This is such a drag and a cotton pickin shame! Thank goodness Direct TV isn't messing up! How about that?????

Tell me, how do you cope when all of your electronic gagets go on the blink? Do you put on your apron and start baking and roasting, or doing something crafty in the kitchen? Did I lose my mind or what???????

As you can see, if you are reading this blog, I did manage to get a little writing done today.......and this is a good thing. And Oh yeah, the green light started to flash, letting me know the internet is ready......for me to transfer my rantings to my blog.

Until the next time....wish me luck in surviving this test of endurance and patience, for I am running out of both.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

December 1,2011



How wonderful it is to see a brand new month come rolling in. November is gone and December has made its appearance. Lucky for us in DC, it is cold, but there is no snow as of yet. I dread that falling stuff. December is a very festive month as we all know, however, it is more so in this family because of birthdays and anniversaries. Oh yeah, ours is coming up at the end of the month, married since 1974. Dang doesn't that sound like ages ago? Anyway as I see it, it is a blessing, which shows we made it through the bad times and the good. You know, to be married this long, you can't do it without having God in your relationship. After all, married life can get crazy at times and make ya just wanna jump up down and scream or start throwing stuff. But, you don't really do that, what you do is Pray, Pray, Pray and count your blessings; especially when the devil tries to throw you a curve ball. So for all you newly wed folks, or those planning a wedding, go forward not only in love but in faith, patience and by all means, take God with you. Do not leave him out, trust me.....your going to need him when the honeymoon is over. Oh yeah, I wouldn't trade married life for nothing in the world. Okay, enough of that. I don't even know how I got started on that topic. It is just something that popped up in my head and I thought I would share.

Well, here is an update; I was all prepared to go forward with my new book idea, "The Itchy Scratchy Spots." Had a publisher and everything. I was ready to move forward, but it seems I picked the wrong publisher, they were slow as molasses's,not very professional and they didn't accomplish what they said they would accomplish. Not even a book cover. Even the correspondence was shaky. Needless to say, I pulled the manuscript and now I am back at square one, searching for a new one, which isn't easy;for one thing, I like publishers who accept email submissions. I am also looking for a small independent publisher like the one I had before....New Line Press. Now they were awesome and I had a super good experience with them. So, I guess you are saying, why not go back to them...Well here is the scoop on that situation. Even though I am still friends with the publisher, they have decided to drop doing children's books, their material is more adult centered. Meaning children books and erotica books are two different genre's and they are focusing more on attracting adult audiences. I can respect and appreciate that decision. The publisher has helped me so much and I learned a lot about publishing through them. As a matter of fact, the publisher even thinks that I should think about going into publishing like she did, learn the trade. However, I am not thinking along those lines, for I do not believe that that is something I want to do. But, you never know where God will take you...all you have to do is follow and see what is in store. So actually, I am not closing the door...just not thinking about it.....now. For all I want at the moment is to have another book published by a respectable and hardworking publisher who cares about their authors. I've been down that road before and I know what to expect....so until I find what I am looking for, me and my manuscript will just be doing a lot of finger walking through the "Yellow Pages," that's internet search engine jabber.

My goodness I am long winded on the first day of December. Well, what can I say, I had to update my blog so folks won't think I am on vacation somewhere. As I look at the clock, it is telling me it is time to wrap this little chit chat up and get busy. Lord knows I have plenty to do....I am so inspired. Until the next time, be good, be blessed, stay focused and may your day be filled with peace and happiness.

Thanks for stopping by and reading....I hope you enjoyed.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Great Day in the Morning Chat


Good morning, good morning. I know, shame on me for not keeping up with my chit chat blog. However, I have been busy, which is a good thing. However, this week is starting out slow. Last week, it was humming around my desk. I had 9 articles to put out and I succeeded. I even beat my deadline by a couple of days. Now I like that! I would love to have more assignments like that.....on a weekly basis.

How are you adjusting to this fall season? This is not my favorite time of the year because it is too close to winter, which I am not a fan of. I prefer the summer months 24/7. Now that's my cup of tea. Bump the cold weather with all that ice and snow.

I am still waiting for my last new book to make some progress, talking about moving forward with it. Maybe that will be my Christmas Gift, a finished book. Oh well, the key word here is patience, so I am working on that. I guess you can't rush a good thing, what do you think?

So, what do I do when I am not working on a freelance article, or writing a new book for kids? You will find me hanging out on Facebook and Twitter. Oh yeah, this grandma has it going on with cyber space. I found a new stress outlet, I've been playing this 3D fish game called AquaLife. I like my aquarium that I decorated and the fish actually swim around and grow. Nah, you don't eat them when they get big, you sell them and make coins. LOL I went from level 1 to level 19 in no time at all. I have a lot of new fishy friends too. To play this online game you have to be a fish lover. I didn't even realize that I am attracted to fish....the pretty kind. They have some ugly ones you can purchase. There will be no predators in my aquarium. LOL

In the evening, after all my work is done, I like to play "Words with Friends". This is a scrabble game that can go on for days, for you play when you want. Sometimes I have 4 and 5 games going on....But you know what....I suck at this game. I think I only won one game. It is all about strategy and that I need to work on, plus I keep getting these stupid letters that are hard to work with. LOL As a writer, you would think I would breeze through this game.....but that ain't happenin! Oh well, it is still fun and relaxing.

So, what's on your agenda for October 17th? It looks like a chill day for myself.
Well, I guess I better end this little note and go check my email. Who knows, I might have an article request waiting on me. I am keeping my fingers crossed, because I do like working. I love being busy and having something to do that is interesting and full feeling.

If you like this little chat, don't be afraid to say so...heck come on and subscribe to my blogs.....I do after all, have some interesting things to talk about, sometimes. LOL

Hey and don't forget, the holidays are right around the corner. Books make lovely gifts for kids. So, don't forget to add my titles to your shopping list and just in case you forgot what they are....I am here to remind you.

Broken Voices
A New Home for Her Cubs
Sugar and Spice Fairy Tales for Girls
Stories from Grandma's Garden
Wohali and the Little People
Smiles and Frowns through Animal Town's Storybook.


(All of which are sold at Amazon.com) Happy Shopping!

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Hello Autumn


Well, here we are and summer is gone. I think it went pass way too fast. I wish it could have stayed a little while longer, for I am not looking forward to falling leaves in the yard. I am also not looking forward to what will be coming next...Winter. I am so not a wintertime baby. Oh well, just have to live with it.

This is the end of September and I did get a lot accomplished this month, plenty of articles written, which is a good thing because I sure do love what I do. If you don't love your career, then you should find another one. Always do what you love because when you do, you will do it much better, giving 100% of yourself.

I am still waiting for my new book idea to be published. I tell you, this is the longest period of time I have ever waited on a publisher to complete the publishing process. They are looking at artist for the cover, so they say. I wonder what they will come up with. And yes, I am still waiting to hear from the editor who has the manuscript. Oh, I did get assigned a new editor by the way, this time it is the senior editor because the old editor left the publishing company for personal reasons. However, I am still waiting to get the first message from her telling me what needs corrected or changed....if anything. I am wondering, how long should a writer wait on a publisher, should there be a time limit before you move on and take your manuscript elsewhere? I mean, I am just saying. You can give me your input on this if you want. I'd appreciate any response.

I see the blogger has a new interface, I tried it and I liked it. Hopefully this blog will have a new look to it when I am finished. It is suppose to look like a magazine spread....I think, well that's what I am going for. However, when I first try new things....I don't know what the heck I am doing, I just play around until...presto it is done.

Well, this little chit chat is coming to an end. I hope you are having an awesome Thursday because I am. And guess what is on my plate.....A writing assignment. Yeah! I am so loving this....I like staying busy and being productive. So everybody out there, lets get our writing on, especially if you are a writer/author or something like that. Let's enjoy doing what we love to do.

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Book Event for June


Today was indeed a big day. I was up early getting ready for it, the reason.....another book event. This event was put on by my sister n law and her husband, Mecca and Doug Roeser. This is one awesome couple working on behalf of the youth. They sponsored a racing for life event today and me and my books were a part of the event along with other vendors.

You should have seen the racing cars on display, they were awesome! It was a family affair, for there was something there for everyone, including my books Broken Voices and A New Home for Her Cubs. Oh yeah, I sold some too! It was a hot day, but it was a good day, for I was in the shade chillin, keeping cool and getting known as an author.

I want to thank my daughters, Rafiqah and Raushanah for being there with me. We really enjoyed ourselves. They even had a DJ playing music, so we were rocking in the sunshine in Maryland.

Now I am home chillin and watching the finals with my husband.

So you see, today was a very good day. How was your Sunday?

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Press Release: May 26

http://www.24-7pressrelease.com

You have to check it out. I am in the news. It is exciting being an author. Read my interview at:

http://www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release/authors-who-make-a-difference-winona-rasheed-215303.php

Monday, May 23, 2011

Book News and Updates


Okay, here it is the 4th week in May already, and guess what, two of my books are on the best sellers list again at Amazon.com

Broken Voices and A New Home for Her Cubs are still in the spotlight. Yeah me!! This goes to show you, if you are an author, you cannot afford to stop promoting once your books hit the shelf, for that is not the end of the road. You can't let your keepsakes just sit there collecting cobwebs. The world will not know about your books in just one or two swoops, because the world is too vast, even on the internet. If you don't want the readers to forget about your babies, you have to keep showcasing them, make them aware that you as an author is still here and so are your books.

Ella Rose and Kumani are tickled pink to be back in the spotlight. So, if you haven't picked up your copy of these two books, it is not too late. It is never too late if you like to read, or if you want to get your children interested in reading. These two books will do the trick and I don't say that just because I am the author. I say it because.....you just have to recognize a good book when you see it.

I'd love to hear from you if you have in your possession any of my books. Perhaps you will leave a review of it, share it with the world.

Now, hop on over to Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble.com or if you want to get even more personal, hop on over to the publisher New Line Press- http://newlinepress.com and get your copies. They are so affordable, especially in today economy. With my books, you will always be able to afford a good read.

Friday, April 29, 2011

Headline News


http://newlinepress.com/nlp_kids

Just had to share this information and put it in the spotlight. This is awesome headline news. You should see the names of these awesome authors, of course my name is in the bunch too.

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Updating my posts


Hey, when was the last time you stopped by my website? You are missing out on so much if you haven't checked it out. So come on, what are you waiting for? Take a look at Winona's author website. Feel free to post comments so I will know that you enjoyed your visit........or not. Put on your walking shoes and hurry on over to:

http://winonarasheed.com

I will be waiting for you.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

"Broken Voices" is Still on the Move


Wow, I am happy to announce that I am going to be doing another blog interview for my book, "Broken Voices". Dr. Sharon Pajka of Gallaudet University has been trying to get in contact with me. I am so impressed because for some reason last night, I decided to check my comments on my website. Usually, I get nothing but junk mail responses so I hadn't checked it for awhile. I almost did a flip out of my chair when I read her message, which was way back in January.I thought I had missed out on a great opportunity. But lo and behold, I contacted her last night and got a response today. She is still interested in introducing my book and me as an author to her students. Now what do you think of that? I'll tell you what, I bet I start reading my comments now because people are reading my blogs after all. Hot diggity dog!
Take a look at this website, she has my book listed. It is so awesome. I am on cloud 9 all over again. Thanks Dr. Pajka!

http://pajka.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

chit chat: Just Spotted this

chit chat: Just Spotted this: "Look what I just found. Someone contacted me on my blog about my book, 'Broken Voices', and to think that I didn't even know people were rea..."

Just Spotted this

Look what I just found. Someone contacted me on my blog about my book, "Broken Voices", and to think that I didn't even know people were reading my blogs. This is amazing. I hope she still wants to do an interview. Let's keep our fingers crossed.

http://pajka.blogspot.com/

chit chat: March Chit Chat- Topic: While I Wait

chit chat: March Chit Chat- Topic: While I Wait: "Here I am sitting at my desk waiting for inspiration to come so I can write. Boy oh boy, I hate when this happens. I found five wonderful l..."

March Chit Chat- Topic: While I Wait


Here I am sitting at my desk waiting for inspiration to come so I can write. Boy oh boy, I hate when this happens. I found five wonderful looking new publishers out there and I am dying to find the perfect match for me and my books. You know, a place to call home; after all, how can you rest when you don't have a roof over your head and me and my books need a solid roof.

I have two book ideas out there, they are in the hands of two different publishers. So I am waiting to hear back from them. I always hate this process, but it is something that all writers go through and I am no exception. Though I usually don't sit twiddling my fingers at this stage of the manuscript ride, today I find myself doing just that. It is like I am bored and I never get bored when I am sitting at my computer. I must get my writing juices flowing, turn on some ideas so they can start to flow. But, since it doesn't seem to be working today, maybe I should just sit back and relax, kinda take the day off. Kick my shoes off and just..........wait.

We are now 8 days into March. I am still waiting for spring to arrive. I know warm weather will inspire me so come on spring.....make my day.

Monday, February 14, 2011

Happy Valentine's Day!

Well here it is February 14th already. I hope you are spending the day smelling a nice bouquet of roses and eating a big box of your favorite chocolates.

I've been sitting here working on a new website. This one is free. I like free don't you? On this website I will be talking about my books. I will also be blogging. I just love to talk...sometimes I just can't help myself. My new website is called...Snap Dragon Book Nook, I tickle myself with the names I come up with. How do you like the sound of this? When it is finished and posted to the web, I will be sure to blog about because I want you to check it out.

Well, that's all for now, I have a lot of work to do and I need to get started, for I spent all morning and all afternoon on this computer.

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

chit chat: January Chat on Writing

chit chat: January Chat on Writing: "Here I go again. I was just sitting at my kitchen table and like always, thoughts were running through my head. Earlier in the day I had re..."

January Chat on Writing


Here I go again. I was just sitting at my kitchen table and like always, thoughts were running through my head. Earlier in the day I had read a couple of pages of an ebook that I have on my Kindle PC, the title "The Goddess of Fried Okra". They author has succeeded in creating believable characters.

Now with that said, it lead me to the thoughts of what an excellent writer is and what they do, what they know how to do.

An excellent writer is one who can make the reader hear the voice of their characters through the choice of words that they give as dialogue. An excellent writer writes with such style, depth and detail, the reader cam actually pick a main character out of a crowd. Through a writer's way with words, the reader can imagine and see the distinction of a southern belle, a New York charmer, or a British tycoon. You can see the characters unfold and come to life in the pages of the book.

An excellent writer will have the reader wanting more, not wanting to put the book down until they have reached the end. A good book leaves the reader with a satisfied feeling when the book has come to its conclusion.

An excellent writer knows how to make the reader feel the essence of each character and their situation, making the reader become one with the character. An excellent writer knows how to make a character pop out and become close friends with the reader.

An excellent writer can make the reader still hear the voice of a main character, even when the book is closed, because the character is still living on in the reader's head, making a lasting impression, which will cause the reader to search for other material by that particular author. All because the writer knows how to draw the attention of their readers, using their fabulous characters as bait, pulling the reader in and making a connection.


Just Another Thought
By Winona aka Nona

Tuesday, January 4, 2011


Happy New Year World. I must say, so far so good. We are four days into 2011. In all my rush to get things bought during December, I failed to get a 2011 Calendar, so I made my own, which was looking kind of crappy. Anyway, lo and behold, one came in the mail, I was so happy. The little things put a smile on my face. It is a neat looking calendar too with puppies and kittens for the month of January. Before, January for 2010 showed a picture of a martini.....and I don't even drink.

The new year is coming in with me writing articles and I have a client that I am working with from my freelance writing and editing business, "Dream Writers' Essentials." http://www.dreamwritersesentials.com, so 2011, is coming in on the good foot. I pray to be busy all year long doing what I love to do and that is WRITE.

Well I have to cut this chit chat short, the baby is calling me. I am talking about my grandson. Guess what, I call him superman.