Are you still there the countless readers of my blog who are too shy to comment or too busy to type a comment or too weary of this world to do anything.
IT'S ALMOST CHRISTMAS and we are supposed to be full of good cheer, liquid or otherwise. Liquid is better. It works fast.
We are having west coast winter weather, grey skies and lots of rain, not very cold and that is a comfort. No snow to shovel so we are blessed in that regard.
The book I'm writing is coming along. My daily output is slow so I'm trying to write at lease two pages a day or three when the spirit moves me. When I was much younger and writing romance I'd write for three to four hours daily. Age is taking its toll but I'm blessed to write at all.
A cozy English mystery. I"m not editing myself as I write. This is a first draft for goodness sake, I'm not expecting a miracle to surface and do the writing for me.
If this was a proper blog I'd deal with a topic engaging readers. I have stepped back from life and find many topics of limited interest.
Big News! Luke Magnotta has been charged with murder and sentenced to life in prison. It took the 12 jurors seven days to reach a decision. The case was complicated. Read about it or watch it on television if you're a Canadian.
I'm away. Have a pleasant holiday. Take time to sit back and think about who you are and how you became who you are.
Anita Birt
www.anitabirt.com
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
Monday, December 15, 2014
ANITA BIRT'S - NOTE BOOK
Alas this blog is dying an indecent death through lack of interest on my part and the absolute absence of comments from someone - anyone - a talking gorilla, any comment is welcome. So before I consign this blog to a blog grave on which will be written, "No one cared so I'm going to the great blog heaven in the sky."
Christmas is fast approaching. Are you ready?
I urge you to give copies of my romance novels to the woman in your who likes to curl up with a good read while you pour her a glass of chilled white wine or a gin and tonic or a Scotch on the wrongs or a hot toddy made with whisky, a squeeze of lemon, a little brown sugar and pour in boiling water, just enough! Don't drown the Scotch.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, a historical romance.
ISABELLE'S DIARY, a contemorary romance
ISABELLE'S STORY, historical romance linked to ISABELLE'S DIARY
RING AROUND THE MOON , a time travel romance. Very romantic!
TOO YOUNG TO DIE - a page turner involving a nanny, a baby and thugs threatening to kill both of them. It's a romance! Enjoy its twists and turns.
For to-day my Blog lives but it will die unless you send in a comment. I feel like Tinkerbell in Peter Pan. Remember when we thought she was dying. If we wanted Tinkerbell to live we had to clap our hands!! I clapped like mad so did my children and grandchildren.
Save my blog. Send in a comment.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Christmas is fast approaching. Are you ready?
I urge you to give copies of my romance novels to the woman in your who likes to curl up with a good read while you pour her a glass of chilled white wine or a gin and tonic or a Scotch on the wrongs or a hot toddy made with whisky, a squeeze of lemon, a little brown sugar and pour in boiling water, just enough! Don't drown the Scotch.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, a historical romance.
ISABELLE'S DIARY, a contemorary romance
ISABELLE'S STORY, historical romance linked to ISABELLE'S DIARY
RING AROUND THE MOON , a time travel romance. Very romantic!
TOO YOUNG TO DIE - a page turner involving a nanny, a baby and thugs threatening to kill both of them. It's a romance! Enjoy its twists and turns.
For to-day my Blog lives but it will die unless you send in a comment. I feel like Tinkerbell in Peter Pan. Remember when we thought she was dying. If we wanted Tinkerbell to live we had to clap our hands!! I clapped like mad so did my children and grandchildren.
Save my blog. Send in a comment.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Saturday, December 6, 2014
ANITA BIRT'S - NOTE BOOK
My blog to-day is about feet. Your feet, my feet, all God's children's feet. Give a thought to your feet. I thought abut my feet a couple of days ago and wondered at the miracle of my feet. I walked when I was a year old, I walk on the same feet to-day. Think about that.
My feet are no longer things of beauty but they still work and don't crave a lot of attention. I think of all the places I've lived and all the places I've visited. Did you trod jungle tracks? Snowy mountains. Farmed an acre or two. Climbed trees. Hung upside down on railings. Ran from a bully. Kicked a football. Jumped rope. Tip toed watching for Santa. Danced in high heels.
Imagine the working feet of a ballerina.
Have a look at your feet before you go to bed. Sit on the bed and hold a foot. Examine it and wonder at the miracle of that foot . Examine the other one and think about where it has been and what it has experienced.
Feet develop hurtful things like bunions, corns, hammer toes and sundry other ills but with care they will still do what they are supposed to do. Stand up! Walk!
How are your feet? Have you noticed them to-day? Acknowledge the miracle of your feet.
As I'm typing I'm wiggling my feet in my shoes. Same feet I started with over ninety years ago.
Still working. Still taking me on long walks. I think of them as miracles.
Think about your feet.
I leave you thinking.
Anita Birt
www,anitabirt.com
My feet are no longer things of beauty but they still work and don't crave a lot of attention. I think of all the places I've lived and all the places I've visited. Did you trod jungle tracks? Snowy mountains. Farmed an acre or two. Climbed trees. Hung upside down on railings. Ran from a bully. Kicked a football. Jumped rope. Tip toed watching for Santa. Danced in high heels.
Imagine the working feet of a ballerina.
Have a look at your feet before you go to bed. Sit on the bed and hold a foot. Examine it and wonder at the miracle of that foot . Examine the other one and think about where it has been and what it has experienced.
Feet develop hurtful things like bunions, corns, hammer toes and sundry other ills but with care they will still do what they are supposed to do. Stand up! Walk!
How are your feet? Have you noticed them to-day? Acknowledge the miracle of your feet.
As I'm typing I'm wiggling my feet in my shoes. Same feet I started with over ninety years ago.
Still working. Still taking me on long walks. I think of them as miracles.
Think about your feet.
I leave you thinking.
Anita Birt
www,anitabirt.com
Monday, December 1, 2014
ANITA BIRT'S - NOTE BOOK
So much to think about and without the ways and means to do anything about it. Gwyn Morgan has an article in the Globe and Mail titled. "Maybe it's time to rewire and unplug the next generation."
Are young people? Can they Internet addicted? Are they distracted by their gadgets to the extant they have lost the skill of thinking clearly and solving problems. Are their brains trained to think in bits and pieces? I quote from the column. "It's dangerous from a social standpoint because constantly distracted people who are incapable of long-form thinking will have difficulty managing their lives."
"Business in a globally competitive world requires undivided focus, analytical accuracy, creative problem solving, innovative thinking and team working skills."
Did that make you think?
Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat, please put a penny in the old man's, if you haven't got a penny, a ha'penny will, do if you haven't got a ha'penny, God Bless You.
An old poem that just popped into my head.
Buy my books on line. Give your friends a treat. All my books are available in trade paperback.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
The Isabelle books are available in a stand alone book - ISABELLE. A contemporary and historical romance novel. A great gift.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Are young people? Can they Internet addicted? Are they distracted by their gadgets to the extant they have lost the skill of thinking clearly and solving problems. Are their brains trained to think in bits and pieces? I quote from the column. "It's dangerous from a social standpoint because constantly distracted people who are incapable of long-form thinking will have difficulty managing their lives."
"Business in a globally competitive world requires undivided focus, analytical accuracy, creative problem solving, innovative thinking and team working skills."
Did that make you think?
Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat, please put a penny in the old man's, if you haven't got a penny, a ha'penny will, do if you haven't got a ha'penny, God Bless You.
An old poem that just popped into my head.
Buy my books on line. Give your friends a treat. All my books are available in trade paperback.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
The Isabelle books are available in a stand alone book - ISABELLE. A contemporary and historical romance novel. A great gift.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Thursday, November 20, 2014
ANITA BIRT'S - NOTE BOOK
Have you done your Christmas book shopping? For the women in your life who enjoy reading well written romance novels, I suggest you give them a treat, wrapped up under the tree one of them will find, A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, a historical romance. It takes place in an English country mansion, 1865 but all is not peaceful and quiet. A wounded soldier returned from the Crimea does not want a companion foisted on him by his worried family. A female? Probably belongs to the Temperance Union. He makes her life as miserable as possible but she fights back.
My book is selling well in England. I promise your friend a great read.
Now back to the present time. Already the shops are dressed for Christmas. It's important to order your books early so they will arrive for Christmas but isn't November a bit early for Christmas trees with jiggling bells and candles flickering? They've already had the Santa Claus parade in Toronto so the one in Victoria will not be far behind.
I think my granddaughter Melissa will have a difficult time keeping three year old Willa from spinning like a top as she listens to Christmas songs.
My little Great Granddaughter in England is too little to figure out what's going on. She's been to London but the Queen wasn't in. I wonder if she saw the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace?
Must go and write in my diary and think about the review I must write for Richard Flanagan's book, The Narrow Road to the Deep North. It won The Man Booker Prize for fiction. I recommend it.
Anita Birt
www.anitabirt.com
My book is selling well in England. I promise your friend a great read.
Now back to the present time. Already the shops are dressed for Christmas. It's important to order your books early so they will arrive for Christmas but isn't November a bit early for Christmas trees with jiggling bells and candles flickering? They've already had the Santa Claus parade in Toronto so the one in Victoria will not be far behind.
I think my granddaughter Melissa will have a difficult time keeping three year old Willa from spinning like a top as she listens to Christmas songs.
My little Great Granddaughter in England is too little to figure out what's going on. She's been to London but the Queen wasn't in. I wonder if she saw the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace?
Must go and write in my diary and think about the review I must write for Richard Flanagan's book, The Narrow Road to the Deep North. It won The Man Booker Prize for fiction. I recommend it.
Anita Birt
www.anitabirt.com
Sunday, November 9, 2014
ANITA BIRT'S - NOTE BOOK
My fingers are all thumbs these days. Must be age or my brain is sending wrong messages to my fingers. Say it isn't so! I like my brain working just as it is. I have a bit of arthritis in two of my fingers. Let's blame arthritis.
Southern Vancouver Island is the place to live if you enjoy mild (not always) weather during the winter months but, be prepared for wild wind storms that stir up the giants living under the sea who raise heaving white caps sending water over the breakwaters showering parked cars. Sea water is not nice to cars and damage the paint.
I am supposed to be writing a review of, "THE PAPER TRAIL," an Unexpected History of the World's Greatest Invention.
"This is the story of how that soft and supple substance became the vehicle and the conduit for landmark innovations and mass movement across the world. "
It began two thousand years ago in China and moved on from writing on silk, to writing on bamboo scrolls to mashing up sold rags to make a kind of paper. The Paper Trail is a a long read and not for the faint of heart. I read it in stages so I could remember what I'd read!
The Paper Trail takes us into the highways and byways of governments and the important of keeping records.
That is for that. The book is physically heavy but it's worth the effort to delve into the earliest of paper making to the present time.
In the meantime! Remember to buy a romance novel for one of the women in your life. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, for the woman who enjoys a historical romance.
ISABELLE: For a woman in your life who likes to solve a mystery in the very first chapter of ISABELLE'S DIARY. Was there a ghost?
ISABELLE'S STORY is a historical romance. A broken heart. A pregnancy. Feeling abandoned. Many twists and turns and the good heart of a shepherd. Do read it. There are good and bad people in the world. Let the good triumph.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Southern Vancouver Island is the place to live if you enjoy mild (not always) weather during the winter months but, be prepared for wild wind storms that stir up the giants living under the sea who raise heaving white caps sending water over the breakwaters showering parked cars. Sea water is not nice to cars and damage the paint.
I am supposed to be writing a review of, "THE PAPER TRAIL," an Unexpected History of the World's Greatest Invention.
"This is the story of how that soft and supple substance became the vehicle and the conduit for landmark innovations and mass movement across the world. "
It began two thousand years ago in China and moved on from writing on silk, to writing on bamboo scrolls to mashing up sold rags to make a kind of paper. The Paper Trail is a a long read and not for the faint of heart. I read it in stages so I could remember what I'd read!
The Paper Trail takes us into the highways and byways of governments and the important of keeping records.
That is for that. The book is physically heavy but it's worth the effort to delve into the earliest of paper making to the present time.
In the meantime! Remember to buy a romance novel for one of the women in your life. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, for the woman who enjoys a historical romance.
ISABELLE: For a woman in your life who likes to solve a mystery in the very first chapter of ISABELLE'S DIARY. Was there a ghost?
ISABELLE'S STORY is a historical romance. A broken heart. A pregnancy. Feeling abandoned. Many twists and turns and the good heart of a shepherd. Do read it. There are good and bad people in the world. Let the good triumph.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
ANITA BIRT'S - NOTE BOOOK
Time is marching on and soon, it will be - are you ready for this - soon it will be time to get out your Christmas lists and try to figure out what gifts to give to whom?
I have a suggestion for women on your list who enjoy reading a historical romance, and another suggestion for a reader of historical romance linked to a contemporary romance.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN - set in England 1858. My hero returned badly injured from the Crimean war has withdrawn from society to his large estate. He refuses to socialize. Even his fiancee is unable to shake him loose from his isolation.
In a moment of desperation, his mother has their solicitor advertise for a young lady to live in the country and read to an invalid injured in a riding accident. She expects to read to a young lady like herself, to act as her companion, and is horrified to discover the invalid is a bad tempered young man who does not want a companion, male or female, and does everything in his power to get rid of her. He throws books at her!
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN is everything you want in a historical romance. A plucky female and a man, hell bent in getting rid of her. Order my book in trade paper back from Amazon.ca or Amazon.co.uk. It's available as an e-book but give the trade paperback edition to someone who likes holding a book in her hands.
ISABELLE - A contemporary romance novel and a historical romance. My publisher put my two Isabelle books together. ISABELLE'S DIARY,a contemporary romance and ISABELLE'S STORY, a historical romance.
Is there a ghost or not? Read the two books and decide for yourself. The cover of ISABELLE is absolutely beautiful. Give the book to someone who appreciates well written stories and a cover to please the eye.
Order ISABELLE from Amazon.ca or Amazon.co.uk or from my publisher, Ellora's Cave Publishing Inc. in the United States.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
I have a suggestion for women on your list who enjoy reading a historical romance, and another suggestion for a reader of historical romance linked to a contemporary romance.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN - set in England 1858. My hero returned badly injured from the Crimean war has withdrawn from society to his large estate. He refuses to socialize. Even his fiancee is unable to shake him loose from his isolation.
In a moment of desperation, his mother has their solicitor advertise for a young lady to live in the country and read to an invalid injured in a riding accident. She expects to read to a young lady like herself, to act as her companion, and is horrified to discover the invalid is a bad tempered young man who does not want a companion, male or female, and does everything in his power to get rid of her. He throws books at her!
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN is everything you want in a historical romance. A plucky female and a man, hell bent in getting rid of her. Order my book in trade paper back from Amazon.ca or Amazon.co.uk. It's available as an e-book but give the trade paperback edition to someone who likes holding a book in her hands.
ISABELLE - A contemporary romance novel and a historical romance. My publisher put my two Isabelle books together. ISABELLE'S DIARY,a contemporary romance and ISABELLE'S STORY, a historical romance.
Is there a ghost or not? Read the two books and decide for yourself. The cover of ISABELLE is absolutely beautiful. Give the book to someone who appreciates well written stories and a cover to please the eye.
Order ISABELLE from Amazon.ca or Amazon.co.uk or from my publisher, Ellora's Cave Publishing Inc. in the United States.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Sunday, October 26, 2014
ANITA BIRT'S - NOTE BOOK
I have family visiting and my thoughts are else where while we go hither and thither and wit for the clouds to clear away. The weather forecasts have been completely wrong - not even close to being right. With all the high tech equipment I expected better things.
I bought a down filled coat for walking in the cold weather. It's light! I bought it at Edie Bauer store in the Mayfair Mall in Victoria. A young man, Patrick, looked after me, giving me his full care and attention. I truly appreciated that.
The dreadful killings of two Canadian soldiers this past week has saddened the whole country. The man who ran down a soldier in Quebec is a follower of ISIS. He can't travel because the RCMP took away his passport.. The police caught up with him and killed him.
The other soldier was shot doing ceremonial duty at the tomb of the unknown soldier in Ottawa. The gunman ran into the parliament buildings threatening the lives of the police officers and civilians. The gunman was shot dead by Kevin Vickers, Sergeant-of-Arms. He's in charge of security in the House of Commons and is allowed to carry a gun. He shot the gunman three times and killed him.
Canadians are shocked. In our peaceable country we don't expect that kind of violence perpetrated against our soldiers. God knows they serve our country in war zones. War has been brought to our doorstep and the threats have to be dealt with.
The federal government is planning stricter methods to deal with terrorists threats both inside and outside our country. I think the world has gone mad and we have to deal with it.
Life does go on and my books are on sale as e-books and trade paperback. Check my web site for names of my books and reviews. At least that is normal.
Anita Birt
www.anitabirt.com
I bought a down filled coat for walking in the cold weather. It's light! I bought it at Edie Bauer store in the Mayfair Mall in Victoria. A young man, Patrick, looked after me, giving me his full care and attention. I truly appreciated that.
The dreadful killings of two Canadian soldiers this past week has saddened the whole country. The man who ran down a soldier in Quebec is a follower of ISIS. He can't travel because the RCMP took away his passport.. The police caught up with him and killed him.
The other soldier was shot doing ceremonial duty at the tomb of the unknown soldier in Ottawa. The gunman ran into the parliament buildings threatening the lives of the police officers and civilians. The gunman was shot dead by Kevin Vickers, Sergeant-of-Arms. He's in charge of security in the House of Commons and is allowed to carry a gun. He shot the gunman three times and killed him.
Canadians are shocked. In our peaceable country we don't expect that kind of violence perpetrated against our soldiers. God knows they serve our country in war zones. War has been brought to our doorstep and the threats have to be dealt with.
The federal government is planning stricter methods to deal with terrorists threats both inside and outside our country. I think the world has gone mad and we have to deal with it.
Life does go on and my books are on sale as e-books and trade paperback. Check my web site for names of my books and reviews. At least that is normal.
Anita Birt
www.anitabirt.com
Sunday, October 12, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
Words that make me want to lash out at the speaker. It's the phrase, "Eighty years young." or "One Hundred Years Young," referring to an ancient old lady (usually a woman, men don't make it to ninety and one hundred as a rule)
"Mother smile. We'll take a picture while you cut the birthday cake." The dear old soul can't hold the knife and may not know what the hell is going on . She won't have enough breath to blow out the candles.
I am very old, soon to be ninety-two As long as I have my wits don't set me up as if I've lost them. I can count to one hundred backwards. I read books! I sing when no one can hear me. I send e-mails to my family. And they reply!
I am blessed with good health but I don't take it for granted. I treat my body with respect and look after it as best I can. The thing is, time is running out! I don't have a future except from day to day. Can't make long range plans for there is no "long range."
However, I am writing a Lady Mary Mystery. I don't have a hope in hell of getting it published and that is just fine. I don't need the hassle of receiving rejections. I had enough of them before my romance novels were published.
So I am OLD. I don't pretend to be anything but OLD. I am blessed with a good memory and have wonderful memories that make me smile.
Enjoy the day. Smile. Hug a tree or give it a passing pat.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
"Mother smile. We'll take a picture while you cut the birthday cake." The dear old soul can't hold the knife and may not know what the hell is going on . She won't have enough breath to blow out the candles.
I am very old, soon to be ninety-two As long as I have my wits don't set me up as if I've lost them. I can count to one hundred backwards. I read books! I sing when no one can hear me. I send e-mails to my family. And they reply!
I am blessed with good health but I don't take it for granted. I treat my body with respect and look after it as best I can. The thing is, time is running out! I don't have a future except from day to day. Can't make long range plans for there is no "long range."
However, I am writing a Lady Mary Mystery. I don't have a hope in hell of getting it published and that is just fine. I don't need the hassle of receiving rejections. I had enough of them before my romance novels were published.
So I am OLD. I don't pretend to be anything but OLD. I am blessed with a good memory and have wonderful memories that make me smile.
Enjoy the day. Smile. Hug a tree or give it a passing pat.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Saturday, October 4, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
How did it get to be October 4th? The last cruise ship stops in Victoria on Monday morning. It seems like yesterday the first cruise ships arrived in April. Winter is just around the corner, sort of. We've had a fabulous fall, lots of warm sunny weather and no rain.Thanksgiving is next week-end. I have a lot to be thankful for, have you?
I've had a difficult day trying to put together a special hearing device . I wasn't trying.I was doing it! I had to understand the instructions and do exactly as they said.
I think there's a change in the weather and that's why I feel lethargic. Also I want to record a program on television and have never done that before.My brain is tired and beginning to feel out of sorts.
Question. Why am I keeping this blog? I already write in a diary so why duplicate the effort? No one reads this but - I think it does help sell my romance novels and my mystery e-book.
ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE. Every book a treasure waiting to be found.
www.anitabirt.com
I've had a difficult day trying to put together a special hearing device . I wasn't trying.I was doing it! I had to understand the instructions and do exactly as they said.
I think there's a change in the weather and that's why I feel lethargic. Also I want to record a program on television and have never done that before.My brain is tired and beginning to feel out of sorts.
Question. Why am I keeping this blog? I already write in a diary so why duplicate the effort? No one reads this but - I think it does help sell my romance novels and my mystery e-book.
ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE. Every book a treasure waiting to be found.
www.anitabirt.com
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
No blogging for days and days and days. The problem is time. It keeps running on too fast and I'm falling behind. "Stop The World I Want to Get Off."
Where would I go? This earth I live on is all I know. It's how fast time flies by. It's something to do with aging, to getting old, to getting TOO OLD. There's nowhere to hide from time. I remember being a teenager and being bored! This was long before the Internet and all the gadgets used to FILL IN TIME.
I read about a teenaged girl who kept her phone on her pillow when she went to bed in case some one sent a text, we're talking about girlfriends texting each other. What do they have to say that can't wait?
I love the look of young people, their bright faces, shiny hair and smiles. Young people who live in Canada are blessed to live here with so many opportunities, so many places to visit and who would not want to paddle a canoe on a lake and hear loons calling.
I count my blessings and I am OLD. Takes all kinds.
In the meantime I am not doing much writing, not sure why. Maybe I don't like the main character or the small village where she lives - But, there's been a murder on a canal boat. A canal runs past Lady Mary's back garden, The towpath remains and is used by walkers and hikers. Lady Mary does not investigate murders. My story is a cozy English mystery.Why have I brought murder into my story?
In the meantime, do continue buying my five romance novels and my e-published The Ghost Writer Mystery.Sad to say there are many books out there with similar names. Sigh
Take it easy. Do some stretches. Smile a lot.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Where would I go? This earth I live on is all I know. It's how fast time flies by. It's something to do with aging, to getting old, to getting TOO OLD. There's nowhere to hide from time. I remember being a teenager and being bored! This was long before the Internet and all the gadgets used to FILL IN TIME.
I read about a teenaged girl who kept her phone on her pillow when she went to bed in case some one sent a text, we're talking about girlfriends texting each other. What do they have to say that can't wait?
I love the look of young people, their bright faces, shiny hair and smiles. Young people who live in Canada are blessed to live here with so many opportunities, so many places to visit and who would not want to paddle a canoe on a lake and hear loons calling.
I count my blessings and I am OLD. Takes all kinds.
In the meantime I am not doing much writing, not sure why. Maybe I don't like the main character or the small village where she lives - But, there's been a murder on a canal boat. A canal runs past Lady Mary's back garden, The towpath remains and is used by walkers and hikers. Lady Mary does not investigate murders. My story is a cozy English mystery.Why have I brought murder into my story?
In the meantime, do continue buying my five romance novels and my e-published The Ghost Writer Mystery.Sad to say there are many books out there with similar names. Sigh
Take it easy. Do some stretches. Smile a lot.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Monday, September 8, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
One thing leads to another when I start writing a story. My present book, starring Lady Mary, a smart amateur sleuth, was supposed to be a gentle, cozy English mystery set in a quiet village where nothing much ever happened. Something has!
In the meantime, life is good. I've just finished reading, Operation Mincemeat by Ben Macintyre (hells bells I can't spell his last name correctly.) He wrote "A Spy among Friends." Operation Mincemeat is a page turner and a true story.
Ewen Montague had written, "The Man Who Never Was." Montague had a major role in planning part of the great deception diverting the Germans away from Sicily. His book, "The Man Who Never Was," is still in print." I read it years ago.
Operation Mincemeat is a detailed description of everyone involved in the great deception. Spies everywhere. For the deception to work required careful planning down to the last detail but even then something could go wrong. I stayed up late turning pages.
If you are buying my books I will be happy. They are pure invention. Reading fiction is good for your brain. Did you know that? So buy my books and read them. I'm a small fish in an ocean sized publishing world but I'm still swimming and enjoying the game.
Must go and cut up strawberries for breakfast. We are enjoying fabulous summer weather and late bearing strawberries keep on coming. Also lots and lots of blueberries. We are blessed.
Enjoy whatever you're doing. Smile as often as you can. Say hello to a stranger.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
In the meantime, life is good. I've just finished reading, Operation Mincemeat by Ben Macintyre (hells bells I can't spell his last name correctly.) He wrote "A Spy among Friends." Operation Mincemeat is a page turner and a true story.
Ewen Montague had written, "The Man Who Never Was." Montague had a major role in planning part of the great deception diverting the Germans away from Sicily. His book, "The Man Who Never Was," is still in print." I read it years ago.
Operation Mincemeat is a detailed description of everyone involved in the great deception. Spies everywhere. For the deception to work required careful planning down to the last detail but even then something could go wrong. I stayed up late turning pages.
If you are buying my books I will be happy. They are pure invention. Reading fiction is good for your brain. Did you know that? So buy my books and read them. I'm a small fish in an ocean sized publishing world but I'm still swimming and enjoying the game.
Must go and cut up strawberries for breakfast. We are enjoying fabulous summer weather and late bearing strawberries keep on coming. Also lots and lots of blueberries. We are blessed.
Enjoy whatever you're doing. Smile as often as you can. Say hello to a stranger.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Friday, August 29, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
Yesterday I blogged about Depression. Nobody out there in cyber land is depressed! Nobody commented. So let's get on to cheerful things.
The book I'm writing now takes place in an English village with a modern but rather eccentric main character. She's been asked to investigate a series of minor crimes all located in the same neighbourhood. Because there's gypsy camp on a nearby common the gypsies are getting the blame.
Lady Mary works with the local constable who has better things to do than worry about a stolen pair of Wellies and other items not worth stealing. That's all I'm saying.
I do hope you are purchasing my newly published e-book, The Ghost Writer Mystery by me, Anita Birt.
Also my five romance novels are picking up new readers. I am thrilled about that. Purchase RING AROUND THE MOON , a time travel. He comes from the past to the present time. How he and my heroine came together makes for rather sexy reading. Read on.
TOO YOUNG TO DIE. A page turning mystery guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat as my heroine caring for a three month old baby escapes in the dark of night into a forest where anything can happen. Read on.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN - My heroine is hired by the mother of a battle scared duke to read to him, to encourage him to take part in the affairs of his estate. He tries to get rid of the companion foisted on him by his mother and uncle. Read on.
ISABELLE'S DIARY - a contemporary romance with a ghostly encounter and a search for answers. Twists and turns on every page. Read on.
ISABELLE'S STORY - A historical romance. The story of Isabelle who penned the diary in the late 18th century. How did it find its way to the present time? Read on.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
The book I'm writing now takes place in an English village with a modern but rather eccentric main character. She's been asked to investigate a series of minor crimes all located in the same neighbourhood. Because there's gypsy camp on a nearby common the gypsies are getting the blame.
Lady Mary works with the local constable who has better things to do than worry about a stolen pair of Wellies and other items not worth stealing. That's all I'm saying.
I do hope you are purchasing my newly published e-book, The Ghost Writer Mystery by me, Anita Birt.
Also my five romance novels are picking up new readers. I am thrilled about that. Purchase RING AROUND THE MOON , a time travel. He comes from the past to the present time. How he and my heroine came together makes for rather sexy reading. Read on.
TOO YOUNG TO DIE. A page turning mystery guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat as my heroine caring for a three month old baby escapes in the dark of night into a forest where anything can happen. Read on.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN - My heroine is hired by the mother of a battle scared duke to read to him, to encourage him to take part in the affairs of his estate. He tries to get rid of the companion foisted on him by his mother and uncle. Read on.
ISABELLE'S DIARY - a contemporary romance with a ghostly encounter and a search for answers. Twists and turns on every page. Read on.
ISABELLE'S STORY - A historical romance. The story of Isabelle who penned the diary in the late 18th century. How did it find its way to the present time? Read on.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
I am sort of at my wits end. Should I drop this Blog or not? Whatever topic I introduce falls on deaf ears or blind eyes.
ARE YOU DEPRESSED? Try this simple physical exeercise. Are you wearing comfortable shoes or in bare feet? Clear some space so you can move around.
Next. SMILE . It won't hurt a bit and is good exercise for your face.
Your are SMILING (as best you can) Give your arms a good shake as if you're shaking rain drops off the tips of your fingers.
Next. Raise your arms as high as you can. Let them drop for a few seconds. Raise them up high again and start walking slowly around your room. Remember to SMILE as you walk. When you tire drop your arms and give them a good shake. Simple, is it not?
In a nut shell. SMILE.
RAISE YOUR ARMS AS HIGH AS YOU CAN AND WALK AROUND THE SPACE YOU HAVE CREATED.
Relax and hang around doing nothing. Think about what you are achieving. BY PHYSICALLY RAISING YOUR BODY YOU ARE RAISING YOUR SPIRITS.
Body and soul in harmony.
Do the SMILE and ARMS RAISING exercise three times a day or more. You will feel better.
Anita
www.anitabirt.
ARE YOU DEPRESSED? Try this simple physical exeercise. Are you wearing comfortable shoes or in bare feet? Clear some space so you can move around.
Next. SMILE . It won't hurt a bit and is good exercise for your face.
Your are SMILING (as best you can) Give your arms a good shake as if you're shaking rain drops off the tips of your fingers.
Next. Raise your arms as high as you can. Let them drop for a few seconds. Raise them up high again and start walking slowly around your room. Remember to SMILE as you walk. When you tire drop your arms and give them a good shake. Simple, is it not?
In a nut shell. SMILE.
RAISE YOUR ARMS AS HIGH AS YOU CAN AND WALK AROUND THE SPACE YOU HAVE CREATED.
Relax and hang around doing nothing. Think about what you are achieving. BY PHYSICALLY RAISING YOUR BODY YOU ARE RAISING YOUR SPIRITS.
Body and soul in harmony.
Do the SMILE and ARMS RAISING exercise three times a day or more. You will feel better.
Anita
www.anitabirt.
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
I speak out but no one listens or replies. Is anyone out there thinking about issues that shock, surprise, horrify?
The police killings in Ferguson? The unarmed black man was shot SIX times. I think the police officer should be charged with murder. One shot would have solved the problem. Why shoot in the first place? Having a gun handy is an invitation to shoot.
Another young aboriginal girl has been murdered and her body dumped in a Manitoba river. Big fuss about the number of aboriginal girls and women gone missing or murdered. What to do with women and girls who put themselves in harm's way?
Change of topic. A dream wakened me yesterday morning. I saw the pretty cover of a paper back book. The cover had trees and flowers in pinks and blues. Although I didn't read the name of the book on the cover I knew what it was: HOW TO DO HAPPY THINGS.
Good title for a book except all kinds of things have been written on the subject. Google it and find out. I wonder why it came to me in a dream.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
.
The police killings in Ferguson? The unarmed black man was shot SIX times. I think the police officer should be charged with murder. One shot would have solved the problem. Why shoot in the first place? Having a gun handy is an invitation to shoot.
Another young aboriginal girl has been murdered and her body dumped in a Manitoba river. Big fuss about the number of aboriginal girls and women gone missing or murdered. What to do with women and girls who put themselves in harm's way?
Change of topic. A dream wakened me yesterday morning. I saw the pretty cover of a paper back book. The cover had trees and flowers in pinks and blues. Although I didn't read the name of the book on the cover I knew what it was: HOW TO DO HAPPY THINGS.
Good title for a book except all kinds of things have been written on the subject. Google it and find out. I wonder why it came to me in a dream.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
.
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
There are days when I think parts of the world have gone mad. A small group have been chased away from their homes because the murderous ISIS want to kill them. All because they have a particular Muslim Christian beliefs and for that they must die. The poor souls took refuge on a mountain and are being rescued by American fighter/bombers taking out ISIS strongholds. Other countries are sending in aid so the poor folks will have something to eat and drink.
This is so sad. I think of the little children suffering and the older children unable to attend school. Is there a future? What can Canada do?
Robert Fulford had a brilliant essay in the National Post yesterday. "Mid-Century Judaism." Where he recounts the achievements of Jewish designers in furniture, clothing, architecture. It's worth a read. In the midst of the terrorists, Hamas, trying to kill all Jews, it's important to remember how much Jews have contributed to all aspects of our society.
Is hate stronger than love? If you know the answers please let me know. You can Tweet me or send a message on Facebook or comment on this Blog.
The fog horns are blowing over the sea and the mist is drifting, soft and quiet. So peaceful.
So much to do. So little time. I'm too old to take on world problems. It's up to the younger generations to change the world - a little bit at a time. Smiling will help a little bit.
I think I'm wandering off on different topics. I read my three daily newspapers and books to energize my brain. . I'll e-mail Robert Fulford and tell him how much I enjoyed his essay, "Mid-Century Judaism."
I urge you to buy my romance novels, my non-fiction book, The House at Bridal Veil, and my mystery, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY. Enjoy
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
This is so sad. I think of the little children suffering and the older children unable to attend school. Is there a future? What can Canada do?
Robert Fulford had a brilliant essay in the National Post yesterday. "Mid-Century Judaism." Where he recounts the achievements of Jewish designers in furniture, clothing, architecture. It's worth a read. In the midst of the terrorists, Hamas, trying to kill all Jews, it's important to remember how much Jews have contributed to all aspects of our society.
Is hate stronger than love? If you know the answers please let me know. You can Tweet me or send a message on Facebook or comment on this Blog.
The fog horns are blowing over the sea and the mist is drifting, soft and quiet. So peaceful.
So much to do. So little time. I'm too old to take on world problems. It's up to the younger generations to change the world - a little bit at a time. Smiling will help a little bit.
I think I'm wandering off on different topics. I read my three daily newspapers and books to energize my brain. . I'll e-mail Robert Fulford and tell him how much I enjoyed his essay, "Mid-Century Judaism."
I urge you to buy my romance novels, my non-fiction book, The House at Bridal Veil, and my mystery, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY. Enjoy
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
Our weather on Vancouver Island continues. I'd like to bottle it and have a Genie bring it out on a miserable winter day and wrap it around me. Aladdin and your Lamp. Where are you when I need you?
Gone the way of all magic so I must weave my own. Counting my blessings. I often do when I'm out walking and stop to listen to the sound of the surf. I am blessed being able to walk and listen and view the scene in front of my eyes. The snow capped mountains across the way in Washington. The sea sparkling in the sun. And the gulls screeching. They are always around. They fly by my front windows and leave huge white droppings. It's life and my windows will be cleaned.
The cruise ship season is in full swing here. Very large ships and one or two smaller ones. I can't imagine being on a ship with 2565 passengers and crew. They are floating hotels. Then someone gets sick with gastroenteritis and all hell breaks loose.
I have too many books waiting to be read and am feeling a bit overwhelmed. One of them, I have to read and send a short review within a week!!! Not enough time.
And I'm writing my mystery, having passed 35,000 words and no end in sight. How did this happen?
Does anyone read this Blog? Why am I writing it? It's keeping a second diary. I write in my diary at night and my Blog fills in the cracks - when I remember to write in my Blog.
In the meantime I have to go and read. Remember to purchase my books. All are available in e-published form and very inexpensive.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Gone the way of all magic so I must weave my own. Counting my blessings. I often do when I'm out walking and stop to listen to the sound of the surf. I am blessed being able to walk and listen and view the scene in front of my eyes. The snow capped mountains across the way in Washington. The sea sparkling in the sun. And the gulls screeching. They are always around. They fly by my front windows and leave huge white droppings. It's life and my windows will be cleaned.
The cruise ship season is in full swing here. Very large ships and one or two smaller ones. I can't imagine being on a ship with 2565 passengers and crew. They are floating hotels. Then someone gets sick with gastroenteritis and all hell breaks loose.
I have too many books waiting to be read and am feeling a bit overwhelmed. One of them, I have to read and send a short review within a week!!! Not enough time.
And I'm writing my mystery, having passed 35,000 words and no end in sight. How did this happen?
Does anyone read this Blog? Why am I writing it? It's keeping a second diary. I write in my diary at night and my Blog fills in the cracks - when I remember to write in my Blog.
In the meantime I have to go and read. Remember to purchase my books. All are available in e-published form and very inexpensive.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Saturday, August 2, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
Egad, I had my named spelled wrong on my last post. To-day, August 2nd. I phoned my cousin, Helen, in St. John's, Nfld, yesterday. Heat record broken, 30 deg.C and humid.
I'm putting together some of my work ( not published) because I am often asked if I'm still writing. I never stop. Writers write, simple as that. In the display will be: three Memoirs, ON BEING SIX. ON BEING EIGHT-SEVEN - ON BEING NINETY. Also two children's stories, Atlantic Crossing, August/September 1944. And:
HOW I LEARNED TO THINK LIKE A SHEEP.
HAPPINESS IS A WARM BED.
I'm the only member of my family who recalls events as far back as 1920 and onwards to the present time. I wrote my memoirs for my family so the events of my life would not be lost.
Have you written your memoirs? Start anywhere. "How I learned to swim," something like that.It doesn't have to be brilliant. Give your memory a work-out. Stir up those "little grey cells," and see what happens.
I'm slowly progressing with my murder/mystery, Phyllis
Are you buying my books, my five romance novels and my newly published e-book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY? Let's make it a best seller, Price, $1.99.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, my historical romance is selling well in the UK. Not hundreds of books but enough to make me feel good.
ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE. All are available as e-books. Very reasonable for great reads. If you like the feel of a book in your hands, they are available is trade paperback.
Smile.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
I'm putting together some of my work ( not published) because I am often asked if I'm still writing. I never stop. Writers write, simple as that. In the display will be: three Memoirs, ON BEING SIX. ON BEING EIGHT-SEVEN - ON BEING NINETY. Also two children's stories, Atlantic Crossing, August/September 1944. And:
HOW I LEARNED TO THINK LIKE A SHEEP.
HAPPINESS IS A WARM BED.
I'm the only member of my family who recalls events as far back as 1920 and onwards to the present time. I wrote my memoirs for my family so the events of my life would not be lost.
Have you written your memoirs? Start anywhere. "How I learned to swim," something like that.It doesn't have to be brilliant. Give your memory a work-out. Stir up those "little grey cells," and see what happens.
I'm slowly progressing with my murder/mystery, Phyllis
Are you buying my books, my five romance novels and my newly published e-book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY? Let's make it a best seller, Price, $1.99.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, my historical romance is selling well in the UK. Not hundreds of books but enough to make me feel good.
ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE. All are available as e-books. Very reasonable for great reads. If you like the feel of a book in your hands, they are available is trade paperback.
Smile.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Monday, July 21, 2014
ASNITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
My family are flying home to England late this afternoon. I had a wonderful time playing with my beautiful Great Granddaughter, Caroline. She is smart and working hard on standing up. That's all about that. Family news is only interesting to other members of the family.
I am reading P.D.James, "A Fragment of Autobiography." She had the first book she wrote picked up by a publisher and she acquired an agent. Her talent was that good from the get-go. What is obvious is her use of language. She had a good education and it shows.
One of things she regrets is the change in teaching children. No one has to memorize poetry or scenes from plays. My memory goes way back when and I can recite poetry I learned when I was 12 or 13 years old.
Do you ever have a song running through your head and wonder where it has come from. To-day I was singing to myself, "The Teddy Bear's Picnic."
"If you go down in the woods to-day, you're in for a big surprise.
If you go down in the woods to-day, You'd better go in disguise.etc."
God only knows what's stored inside my head and your head.
I hope you are buying copies of my e-book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY. $1.99 and making it a best seller.
Remember my romance novels, They are all available in trade paper back and as e-books.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY.
RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
A Very Difficult Man is a historical novel. Isabelle's Diary is contemporary. Isabelle's Story is historical. Ring Around The Moon is a time travel. Too Young To Die is a murder mystery.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
I am reading P.D.James, "A Fragment of Autobiography." She had the first book she wrote picked up by a publisher and she acquired an agent. Her talent was that good from the get-go. What is obvious is her use of language. She had a good education and it shows.
One of things she regrets is the change in teaching children. No one has to memorize poetry or scenes from plays. My memory goes way back when and I can recite poetry I learned when I was 12 or 13 years old.
Do you ever have a song running through your head and wonder where it has come from. To-day I was singing to myself, "The Teddy Bear's Picnic."
"If you go down in the woods to-day, you're in for a big surprise.
If you go down in the woods to-day, You'd better go in disguise.etc."
God only knows what's stored inside my head and your head.
I hope you are buying copies of my e-book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY. $1.99 and making it a best seller.
Remember my romance novels, They are all available in trade paper back and as e-books.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY.
RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
A Very Difficult Man is a historical novel. Isabelle's Diary is contemporary. Isabelle's Story is historical. Ring Around The Moon is a time travel. Too Young To Die is a murder mystery.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Saturday, July 12, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
A great flight of gulls has flown overhead. They have pooped all over my front window so it has to be washed again. I was shocked to learn that gulls are a protected species here in Canada! Why? Same as raccoons and they are a huge problem in Toronto where they breed like...raccoons.
Her in Victoria urban deer are a huge problem. They breed happily and there are no predators to eat them up. A cougar roaming might scare them but cougars also eat pet cats and are a danger to we mortals.
I have my grandson, his wife and my great granddaughter Caroline arriving to morrow for a five day visit. I have booked them into a private suite where I live. The weather is perfectly terrific, summer but not too hot. The breeze off the sea keeps us cool at night.
I had a notion to read something written by Charles Dickens so I started reading The Old Curiosity Shop. Dickens creates such evil characters, without any redeeming qualities. I'm enjoying the story and all the characters Nell and her grandfather meet on the road.
I shall write a page or two on my book, Phyllis. Writing is such a pleasure. I have no deadlines. Nobody wants me. I'll see how this book turns out.
My books are out there awaiting to entertain you. All are in e-book format. Easy to buy. Try it.
Anita
www.anita birt.com
Monday, July 7, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
Sigh. I've given up on the theme, GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY. Some bright old dame has written a book or an article or something called, Growing Old Disgracefully. Can't beat that for a title so I quit. I'm growing old and that is that! Actually I don't want to be Disgraceful. what ever that means.
So where do I stand now? My left foot is still a bit sore so I can't walk as far as I like.
I'm writing Phyllis. I'm almost at 30,000 words and am not sure what the mystery is that's driving the story. I think that's most peculiar. I should know who is doing what to whom, and when and where and what is the outcome. Haven't a clue. It will reveal itself in good time as I write.
Great article in the Globe and Mail to-day about the importance of reading to children from when they are little. Read every day until they can learn to read. Read and sing and talk to them every day. To reduce illiteracy leave children's books in doctor's offices. Carry a book or two with you when you go out with your kids. Giving your children the gift of literacy is a treasure beyond price.
Back to me and my books. Are you buying my e-book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY? Please push me into the best seller list! Is that possible? Worth a try. It costs $1.99
And remember my romance novels. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
If I had had any sense when I started writing I should have written a series. Readers love series. But it's too late for me. My present book, Phyllis, is a stand alone mystery. Whether it will ever find a publisher is moot. We shall see. I write for pleasure.
Enjoy the day. The sun is shining here and there's no wind. Blue sky. Blue sea. The snow on the Olympic mountains is shining white.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
So where do I stand now? My left foot is still a bit sore so I can't walk as far as I like.
I'm writing Phyllis. I'm almost at 30,000 words and am not sure what the mystery is that's driving the story. I think that's most peculiar. I should know who is doing what to whom, and when and where and what is the outcome. Haven't a clue. It will reveal itself in good time as I write.
Great article in the Globe and Mail to-day about the importance of reading to children from when they are little. Read every day until they can learn to read. Read and sing and talk to them every day. To reduce illiteracy leave children's books in doctor's offices. Carry a book or two with you when you go out with your kids. Giving your children the gift of literacy is a treasure beyond price.
Back to me and my books. Are you buying my e-book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY? Please push me into the best seller list! Is that possible? Worth a try. It costs $1.99
And remember my romance novels. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
If I had had any sense when I started writing I should have written a series. Readers love series. But it's too late for me. My present book, Phyllis, is a stand alone mystery. Whether it will ever find a publisher is moot. We shall see. I write for pleasure.
Enjoy the day. The sun is shining here and there's no wind. Blue sky. Blue sea. The snow on the Olympic mountains is shining white.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Friday, June 27, 2014
ANITA BIRT - GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY
I've changed the title of my blog hoping to catch one or two interested people interested in the topic of aging. How is doing it well and who are giving in. I saw a big particle in the newspaper about the death of a woman, aged 95, who was a champion senior athlete well into her eighties. Good for her. She's an inspiration. I'd like to be inspired to go out running or leaping fences or lifting weights but the thought of getting up and hitting the bricks is not what I really want to do.
I love walking as fast as I can for a kilometre or a little less. I walk on a path over looking over the sea. I've had curtail my walking because of a flare up of something on the top of my left foot. Could be arthritis. It's getting better and I'm getting out and about.
It's Canada Day week-end, also known as the July first week-end. We have a little ceremony here when the old flag is lowered and carefully carried away while the new one is raised up the flag pole. There a several residents here at Somerset House who served in W.W. II in the Royal Canadian Navy, The Royal Canadian Air Force, The Canadian Merchant Fleet and served with various Canadian regiments.
I didn't serve but came close to being tossed into the north Atlantic when a German submarine launched a powerful torpedo at a large ship in the convoy and blew it to pieces. I felt it but didn't see the aftermath. The captain of the Ariguani wouldn't allow us out on deck. We felt the second explosion when the ship designated as the hospital ship came to rescue survivors from the Empire Heritage and was torpedoed.
With the horror stories erupting around the world with militants joyfully killing their enemies, actually kindred spirits of the own religion, a different branch, I'm glad to live in Canada.
We can GROW OLD GRACEFULLY without being shot at or having a bomb chucked over our grey heads.
CELEBRATE the July first week-end. There's a new moon tonight.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
I love walking as fast as I can for a kilometre or a little less. I walk on a path over looking over the sea. I've had curtail my walking because of a flare up of something on the top of my left foot. Could be arthritis. It's getting better and I'm getting out and about.
It's Canada Day week-end, also known as the July first week-end. We have a little ceremony here when the old flag is lowered and carefully carried away while the new one is raised up the flag pole. There a several residents here at Somerset House who served in W.W. II in the Royal Canadian Navy, The Royal Canadian Air Force, The Canadian Merchant Fleet and served with various Canadian regiments.
I didn't serve but came close to being tossed into the north Atlantic when a German submarine launched a powerful torpedo at a large ship in the convoy and blew it to pieces. I felt it but didn't see the aftermath. The captain of the Ariguani wouldn't allow us out on deck. We felt the second explosion when the ship designated as the hospital ship came to rescue survivors from the Empire Heritage and was torpedoed.
With the horror stories erupting around the world with militants joyfully killing their enemies, actually kindred spirits of the own religion, a different branch, I'm glad to live in Canada.
We can GROW OLD GRACEFULLY without being shot at or having a bomb chucked over our grey heads.
CELEBRATE the July first week-end. There's a new moon tonight.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
ANITA BIRT - GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY
Want to Grow Old Gracefully? Don't grow old. There's no stopping the march of time. I wake up every morning and I'm still here - where else would I want to be?
Getting old means getting used to the new you, the New You, whose energy level is not what it used to be five years ago. I've been there. Get used to it.
I'm not writing the way I used to. No longer do I sit four or five hours typing like mad with stories blooming on the computer right in front of my eyes. Now I manage a couple of pages a day - unless I've had errands to run and my creative energy has seeped away.
I saw a funny thing this morning hand printed on a lamp post. "I wish I was more creative ."
Being creative isn't a big problem for me. The story I'm writing is coming along nicely. All kinds of weird things are happening to my three main characters. I tend to write too many characters into this story. They arrive and I can't turf them out, they are there for a reason.
I'm reading the latest Lee Child book in the Jack Reacher series, NEVER GO BACK. I had to force myself to close it and go to bed last night. I'm going to pace myself this evening. I had a hard time going to sleep and then I dreamed ...
I was talking to a neighbour while standing on the back porch of a house. The big back yard was untidy. It seemed familiar to me. I think I remember it from my childhood in London, Ontario. An owl flew over head. That's all!
So Grow Old Gracefully. Accept the changes in your energy level. Enjoy using your brain every day. Do puzzles, read, converse with friends. I don't do puzzles. I don't do crossword puzzles. I certainly don't do Sudokos. My brain has limitations. There you have it. Are you puzzle person?
Have your purchased a copy of THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY? $1.99 - it's an e-published book. Can't beat the price.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Getting old means getting used to the new you, the New You, whose energy level is not what it used to be five years ago. I've been there. Get used to it.
I'm not writing the way I used to. No longer do I sit four or five hours typing like mad with stories blooming on the computer right in front of my eyes. Now I manage a couple of pages a day - unless I've had errands to run and my creative energy has seeped away.
I saw a funny thing this morning hand printed on a lamp post. "I wish I was more creative ."
Being creative isn't a big problem for me. The story I'm writing is coming along nicely. All kinds of weird things are happening to my three main characters. I tend to write too many characters into this story. They arrive and I can't turf them out, they are there for a reason.
I'm reading the latest Lee Child book in the Jack Reacher series, NEVER GO BACK. I had to force myself to close it and go to bed last night. I'm going to pace myself this evening. I had a hard time going to sleep and then I dreamed ...
I was talking to a neighbour while standing on the back porch of a house. The big back yard was untidy. It seemed familiar to me. I think I remember it from my childhood in London, Ontario. An owl flew over head. That's all!
So Grow Old Gracefully. Accept the changes in your energy level. Enjoy using your brain every day. Do puzzles, read, converse with friends. I don't do puzzles. I don't do crossword puzzles. I certainly don't do Sudokos. My brain has limitations. There you have it. Are you puzzle person?
Have your purchased a copy of THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY? $1.99 - it's an e-published book. Can't beat the price.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Monday, June 23, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
I am not GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY. I am made as hell. I just wrote a brilliant blog, touched something and lost the damned thing.
Buy my books. Make me smile. Buy my romance novels in trade paperback or as e-books. Buy, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY, it's published as an e-book. $1.99. You can't beat the price.
My romance novels. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, Historical, England 1858.
ISABELLE'S DIARY, contemporary with many a twist and possibly a ghost.
ISABELLE'S STORY, historical. The storY of Isabelle who wrote the diary! 1895-1900 England.
RING AROUND THE MOON - set in magical Cornwall. He comes from two hundred years in the past to the present time and finds a new love.
TOO YOUNG TO DIE - threatened with death by vicious thugs my heroine escapes in the middle of the night with a three month old baby in her arms. She stumbles through a forest until dawn. To tired to go on she awaits her fate when a man with two large dogs finds her. Who is he?
I'm away now. I might make a cup of tea to calm my frazzled nerves. Loosing my brilliant blog!!! Boo Hoo. That hurt.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com (I'm trying to find out how to add news to my web site but the instructions given to me didn't work.)
Buy my books. Make me smile. Buy my romance novels in trade paperback or as e-books. Buy, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY, it's published as an e-book. $1.99. You can't beat the price.
My romance novels. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, Historical, England 1858.
ISABELLE'S DIARY, contemporary with many a twist and possibly a ghost.
ISABELLE'S STORY, historical. The storY of Isabelle who wrote the diary! 1895-1900 England.
RING AROUND THE MOON - set in magical Cornwall. He comes from two hundred years in the past to the present time and finds a new love.
TOO YOUNG TO DIE - threatened with death by vicious thugs my heroine escapes in the middle of the night with a three month old baby in her arms. She stumbles through a forest until dawn. To tired to go on she awaits her fate when a man with two large dogs finds her. Who is he?
I'm away now. I might make a cup of tea to calm my frazzled nerves. Loosing my brilliant blog!!! Boo Hoo. That hurt.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com (I'm trying to find out how to add news to my web site but the instructions given to me didn't work.)
Monday, June 16, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY will take a one minute break while I do some book promotion.
My e-book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY, is available from Smashwords, my publisher and if you are MAC user from ibooks.
The cost is $l.99. Imagine a 85,000 words mystery for $1.99. You can't beat the price and the story is fascinating, one of the protagonists is Ghost who teams up with a writer to solve the criminal activities taking place in a retirement residence.
So make me happy. Buy my book and enjoy a really good read.
I've been out and about all morning and am pooped. Discovered that strange things were happening on my MasterCard. The powers that be had the last four digits of my card wrong! Charges relating to another card turned up on my statements.
GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY means not getting overtired which I have done. So I shall return tomorrow with brilliant comments.
In the meantime keep buying my romance novels. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN is selling well in the UK. Not in the hundreds but doing okay.
Anita
www,anitabirt.com
My e-book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY, is available from Smashwords, my publisher and if you are MAC user from ibooks.
The cost is $l.99. Imagine a 85,000 words mystery for $1.99. You can't beat the price and the story is fascinating, one of the protagonists is Ghost who teams up with a writer to solve the criminal activities taking place in a retirement residence.
So make me happy. Buy my book and enjoy a really good read.
I've been out and about all morning and am pooped. Discovered that strange things were happening on my MasterCard. The powers that be had the last four digits of my card wrong! Charges relating to another card turned up on my statements.
GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY means not getting overtired which I have done. So I shall return tomorrow with brilliant comments.
In the meantime keep buying my romance novels. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN is selling well in the UK. Not in the hundreds but doing okay.
Anita
www,anitabirt.com
Thursday, June 12, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
My theme is Growing Old Gracefully but I shall take a few minutes to talk about Danny. Those of you who watched the funeral of the three Mounties shot down in Moncton, New Brunswick, will remember seeing Danny, the partner of Constable Ross, trying to sniff at the officer's stetson. His handler was dead but Danny, smart as he is, didn't understand.
Danny, the police service dog, will retire eventually. For the time being he is being cared for by the RCMP and kept active, enjoying running through a shallow pond and playing.
Danny will be introduced, slowly, to a new partner. The handler and Danny have to be a good fit while they train together. This has to be done carefully. Danny and Constable Ross were a team for two years. Service dogs live with the constable's family. I'm sure the children will miss Danny. German shepherds are good with the families with whom they live.
I know this. We had a dearly loved German Shepherd, Kim who lived with us for ten years. I won't write about Kim, this blog is about Danny. In due course he will be retired to live with the family of his handler. He will GROW OLD GRACEFULLY. Dearly loved and valued.
Grieve for the loss of three RCMP officers, gunned down by a young man who fancied himself as a commando. He had acquired weapons to kill those in authority over him. God help us all that men like him walk the streets in cities and towns. But, men like him want to kill women because they ignore him or won't ask him for a date. God help us all.
Think about the dead officers and think about Danny. I'd like to follow his story! Whom should I ask?
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Danny, the police service dog, will retire eventually. For the time being he is being cared for by the RCMP and kept active, enjoying running through a shallow pond and playing.
Danny will be introduced, slowly, to a new partner. The handler and Danny have to be a good fit while they train together. This has to be done carefully. Danny and Constable Ross were a team for two years. Service dogs live with the constable's family. I'm sure the children will miss Danny. German shepherds are good with the families with whom they live.
I know this. We had a dearly loved German Shepherd, Kim who lived with us for ten years. I won't write about Kim, this blog is about Danny. In due course he will be retired to live with the family of his handler. He will GROW OLD GRACEFULLY. Dearly loved and valued.
Grieve for the loss of three RCMP officers, gunned down by a young man who fancied himself as a commando. He had acquired weapons to kill those in authority over him. God help us all that men like him walk the streets in cities and towns. But, men like him want to kill women because they ignore him or won't ask him for a date. God help us all.
Think about the dead officers and think about Danny. I'd like to follow his story! Whom should I ask?
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Sunday, June 8, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY - OR NOT
I have been there and am still there, growing old, I mean. It's not something from which to escape or from pretending it isn't happening. It's the small changes, unnoticed at the time, that gradually creep up and suddenly something that didn't hurt before is hurting now.
Or with me. Two years ago I could walk a couple of miles and not give it a second thought. Now I do a kilometer about once a week and walk about two thirds of the distance most days. It's called, getting old!
Keeping my brain busy writing about this and that, and reading three newspapers daily plus books plus talking with friends about what's going on in the world, out there. We Canadians are blessed to live in a wonderful country where law and order reigns supreme. Except when a young man turns rogue and kills three RCMP officers who had been lured into his trap by a 911 call.
My son, chatting to a limo driver on his way to the airport reported this conversation. The driver said he had come from Spain. "Do you know what I like best about Canada?" He asked. "What?" My son asked. "I like the health care and honest cops."
Honest cops. When I was a kid we knew a police man would help us if we were lost or frightened. Years ago I was giving a talk in a high school in an unfamiliar neighborhood . I lost my way. Up ahead was a road block with police checking for impaired drivers. I stopped. "I'm lost. I don't know this area." He asked my address and told me how to find my way home. A helpful cop.
I'm supposed to be taking about Growing Old Gracefully. It helps to come from a couple of tough old Scots who ignored illness unless it was severe. My mother died in her one hundredth year. My grandmother, 87, my sister, 91, my Aunt Daisy, 88, and here I am ticking along.
I know many women with various kinds of illnesses who remain cheerful. when they can. But if they want to talk about how they feel, take time to LISTEN. Listening is a gift to someone.
GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY - isn't easy if arthritis is playing hell with your feet or back. Or your joints are stiff. (It's aging!) Or your memory is slipping. I have a friend who can't remember people's names so she calls every one, "Sweetie." She is a dear who smiles and stays active.
www.anitabirt.com
I have been there and am still there, growing old, I mean. It's not something from which to escape or from pretending it isn't happening. It's the small changes, unnoticed at the time, that gradually creep up and suddenly something that didn't hurt before is hurting now.
Or with me. Two years ago I could walk a couple of miles and not give it a second thought. Now I do a kilometer about once a week and walk about two thirds of the distance most days. It's called, getting old!
Keeping my brain busy writing about this and that, and reading three newspapers daily plus books plus talking with friends about what's going on in the world, out there. We Canadians are blessed to live in a wonderful country where law and order reigns supreme. Except when a young man turns rogue and kills three RCMP officers who had been lured into his trap by a 911 call.
My son, chatting to a limo driver on his way to the airport reported this conversation. The driver said he had come from Spain. "Do you know what I like best about Canada?" He asked. "What?" My son asked. "I like the health care and honest cops."
Honest cops. When I was a kid we knew a police man would help us if we were lost or frightened. Years ago I was giving a talk in a high school in an unfamiliar neighborhood . I lost my way. Up ahead was a road block with police checking for impaired drivers. I stopped. "I'm lost. I don't know this area." He asked my address and told me how to find my way home. A helpful cop.
I'm supposed to be taking about Growing Old Gracefully. It helps to come from a couple of tough old Scots who ignored illness unless it was severe. My mother died in her one hundredth year. My grandmother, 87, my sister, 91, my Aunt Daisy, 88, and here I am ticking along.
I know many women with various kinds of illnesses who remain cheerful. when they can. But if they want to talk about how they feel, take time to LISTEN. Listening is a gift to someone.
GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY - isn't easy if arthritis is playing hell with your feet or back. Or your joints are stiff. (It's aging!) Or your memory is slipping. I have a friend who can't remember people's names so she calls every one, "Sweetie." She is a dear who smiles and stays active.
www.anitabirt.com
Saturday, June 7, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
Speaking out! About what? And when? I've had family visiting and my head is not where it should be in terms of siting down and writing. About What? No one gives a hot damn whether I'm alive or dead if comments on my blog mean anything. No comments ever.
I labour on with my blog. I wish I could think of a catchy theme to draw comments, hateful or otherwise. Preferably pleasant. There so much misery in the world we really, really should be kind and thoughtful to friends, would-be friends and people we pass in the street. Do you smile at passersby? It's amazing how many people smile back.Mind you they take one look at me and think a smile will help the dear old soul get through the day. I'll accept any kind of smile so do keep them coming.
I hope you have ordered copies of my latest book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY, from Smashwords (my publisher) or if you're a MAC user, go to ibooks and order it there. I await my first royalty cheque/check ( for American readers)
A check is just a check, like a mark on the paper but a cheque - it's a Canadian thing so don't be alarmed.
GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY - or not, depending on how you feel and what hurts the most your back or your feet or your legs.
We can't escape growing old. It comes like the flowers that bloom in the spring, Or when the leaves fall in the autumn. Or when the first snow covers the ground. "Life happens when we're not paying attention." Did Woody Allen say that?
ARE YOU PAYING ATTENTION to they days as they pass by? When you got out of bed this morning what was your first thought? Or your second thought as you looked around and knew you were still alive. And your third thought as you made your way to the bathroom.
I'd enjoy reading them. Please send your comments. Make my day! Make my day even getter by buying my romance novels.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE. Every one is a page turner. Go to my Blog and read the reviews.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
I labour on with my blog. I wish I could think of a catchy theme to draw comments, hateful or otherwise. Preferably pleasant. There so much misery in the world we really, really should be kind and thoughtful to friends, would-be friends and people we pass in the street. Do you smile at passersby? It's amazing how many people smile back.Mind you they take one look at me and think a smile will help the dear old soul get through the day. I'll accept any kind of smile so do keep them coming.
I hope you have ordered copies of my latest book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY, from Smashwords (my publisher) or if you're a MAC user, go to ibooks and order it there. I await my first royalty cheque/check ( for American readers)
A check is just a check, like a mark on the paper but a cheque - it's a Canadian thing so don't be alarmed.
GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY - or not, depending on how you feel and what hurts the most your back or your feet or your legs.
We can't escape growing old. It comes like the flowers that bloom in the spring, Or when the leaves fall in the autumn. Or when the first snow covers the ground. "Life happens when we're not paying attention." Did Woody Allen say that?
ARE YOU PAYING ATTENTION to they days as they pass by? When you got out of bed this morning what was your first thought? Or your second thought as you looked around and knew you were still alive. And your third thought as you made your way to the bathroom.
I'd enjoy reading them. Please send your comments. Make my day! Make my day even getter by buying my romance novels.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE. Every one is a page turner. Go to my Blog and read the reviews.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
I am a rotten blogger. I get a great idea for a blog and then work it to death until I decide no one is interested . I'm getting like an old fart with tales of the past to tell. Like the time when a huge explosion rocked the ship I was sailing on and lifted me right up off my bunk bed.
Three days away from reaching the safety of Liverpool, England, the convoy was attacked by a German submarine taking out the ship sailing directly behind my ship, the S.S. Ariguani.
Want to know the whole story? I'm ready and willing to tell you. Imagine feeling a huge explosion, tossed up in my bunk and not knowing whether I might die in the cold north Atlantic when my ship sank.
Okay. I could go on about arriving in England, penniless. Actually I had a ten shilling note and a couple coins. My husband was serving with the RAF, "somewhere in England." I didn't know where. It was war time.
Want to know more about me and my adventures, leave a comment. Or should I write something on Facebook?
Continue making me happy. Purchase my books. My romance novels and my latest e-published book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY.
Anybody out here who remembers the old days when Bob and Ray were on the radio. They often signed off. "Write if you get work." I think they also said "Hang by your thumbs." Correct me if you can.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Three days away from reaching the safety of Liverpool, England, the convoy was attacked by a German submarine taking out the ship sailing directly behind my ship, the S.S. Ariguani.
Want to know the whole story? I'm ready and willing to tell you. Imagine feeling a huge explosion, tossed up in my bunk and not knowing whether I might die in the cold north Atlantic when my ship sank.
Okay. I could go on about arriving in England, penniless. Actually I had a ten shilling note and a couple coins. My husband was serving with the RAF, "somewhere in England." I didn't know where. It was war time.
Want to know more about me and my adventures, leave a comment. Or should I write something on Facebook?
Continue making me happy. Purchase my books. My romance novels and my latest e-published book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY.
Anybody out here who remembers the old days when Bob and Ray were on the radio. They often signed off. "Write if you get work." I think they also said "Hang by your thumbs." Correct me if you can.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Sunday, May 18, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
To-day I'll skip social issues. No one commented on my Blog yesterday. I assume no one read it. Sigh.
I don't have an agent. I don't have a personal assistant. I certainly don't have a PR person flogging my books hither and yon. I use my Blog to write about writing and about my books.
About writing. I've heard many people comment, "I'd like to write a book but don't know where to start." My advice. "Write about some small thing you noticed to-day."
Is there a flower in bloom? Did you stumble over a stone on the path where you were walking? What did that feel like? Remember a childhood incident. Could be anything. Or write the first thing that comes to mind. What are you thinking about right this minute? Begin.
The famous Nora Roberts said wisely. "You can't fix a blank page." So write a few lines, they don't have to make sense. WRITE THEM DOWN! No one is standing over your shoulder making caustic comments. Tell me what the weather is like where you are. That's a start.
Now to promote my own books. I have had five romance novels published. Here they are:
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, (a historical romance set in England 1858)
ISABELLE'S DIARY: (A contemporary romance. with turns and twists and a ghost)
ISABELLE'S STORY: (A historical romance. England. 1899/1900. Who was Isabelle who penned the Diary?)
RING AROUND THE MOON: (An unusual time travel. He comes from 200 years in the past to the present time in mysterious Cornwall and finds a new love, an American on a short holiday. She has to find him a new identity, passport, driver's license, all the trivia required in the present time)
TOO YOUNG TO DIE: (A contemporary thriller with a brave heroine escaping in the dark of night to protect a three month old baby from murderous thugs.)
THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY: My book is e-published by Smashwords, go to www.Smashwords.com to order. If you have a Mac order my book from ibooks. The cost is $1.99. at both places. A 85,000 word book for $1.99. A real bargain.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
I don't have an agent. I don't have a personal assistant. I certainly don't have a PR person flogging my books hither and yon. I use my Blog to write about writing and about my books.
About writing. I've heard many people comment, "I'd like to write a book but don't know where to start." My advice. "Write about some small thing you noticed to-day."
Is there a flower in bloom? Did you stumble over a stone on the path where you were walking? What did that feel like? Remember a childhood incident. Could be anything. Or write the first thing that comes to mind. What are you thinking about right this minute? Begin.
The famous Nora Roberts said wisely. "You can't fix a blank page." So write a few lines, they don't have to make sense. WRITE THEM DOWN! No one is standing over your shoulder making caustic comments. Tell me what the weather is like where you are. That's a start.
Now to promote my own books. I have had five romance novels published. Here they are:
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, (a historical romance set in England 1858)
ISABELLE'S DIARY: (A contemporary romance. with turns and twists and a ghost)
ISABELLE'S STORY: (A historical romance. England. 1899/1900. Who was Isabelle who penned the Diary?)
RING AROUND THE MOON: (An unusual time travel. He comes from 200 years in the past to the present time in mysterious Cornwall and finds a new love, an American on a short holiday. She has to find him a new identity, passport, driver's license, all the trivia required in the present time)
TOO YOUNG TO DIE: (A contemporary thriller with a brave heroine escaping in the dark of night to protect a three month old baby from murderous thugs.)
THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY: My book is e-published by Smashwords, go to www.Smashwords.com to order. If you have a Mac order my book from ibooks. The cost is $1.99. at both places. A 85,000 word book for $1.99. A real bargain.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Saturday, May 17, 2014
ANITA BIRT - SPEAKING OUT
"Native women live in peril: RCMP report." There is an in depth article in the Globe and Mail detailing the problems native women have to deal with. Think about this:
"Aboriginal women suffer from greater levels of violence than other women in Canada, leaving them more vulnerable to murder and brutality at the hands of their spouses, family members and acquaintances."
It seems to me the problems lie within the aboriginal communities. Why not start there to deal with the violence against women? I already imagine the arguments. "Native communities are still suffering from the abuses and pain from the Residential Schools." Their stories must never be forgotten. Never.
Is it not time to move on? Is the violence on the reserves related to the past suffering? How? It's not healthy to play the role of "Victim." Healing won't take place until the the future is faced. Playing the role of "victim," can act like an addiction. If I give up the role of "victim," who am I?
I'm a mere mortal with the concerns of a mere mortal.I refuse to take the blame for the past injustices done to the native people. I wasn't there. What I can do is urge our federal government and the native chiefs to get their acts together and get the educational system on the reserves funded with money and educated staff. Our native children must be educated. Must be!
Millions of dollars have been poured into the reservations to no avail. Where has the money gone?
This sad story about murdered and missing aboriginal women begins where it started, where the women live. Yes, the police can do their work after the fact. Start by stopping the abusers.
Easier said than done. And so I leave you.
Anita Birt
www.anitabirt.com
"Aboriginal women suffer from greater levels of violence than other women in Canada, leaving them more vulnerable to murder and brutality at the hands of their spouses, family members and acquaintances."
It seems to me the problems lie within the aboriginal communities. Why not start there to deal with the violence against women? I already imagine the arguments. "Native communities are still suffering from the abuses and pain from the Residential Schools." Their stories must never be forgotten. Never.
Is it not time to move on? Is the violence on the reserves related to the past suffering? How? It's not healthy to play the role of "Victim." Healing won't take place until the the future is faced. Playing the role of "victim," can act like an addiction. If I give up the role of "victim," who am I?
I'm a mere mortal with the concerns of a mere mortal.I refuse to take the blame for the past injustices done to the native people. I wasn't there. What I can do is urge our federal government and the native chiefs to get their acts together and get the educational system on the reserves funded with money and educated staff. Our native children must be educated. Must be!
Millions of dollars have been poured into the reservations to no avail. Where has the money gone?
This sad story about murdered and missing aboriginal women begins where it started, where the women live. Yes, the police can do their work after the fact. Start by stopping the abusers.
Easier said than done. And so I leave you.
Anita Birt
www.anitabirt.com
Saturday, May 3, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
I've just read my last post and hope I haven't confused you as I described the book I'm writing. The characters are:
Phyllis.The main protagonist. Angie (six years old) Jake who walked out on Phyllis ten years ago. She divorced him. He is unconscious in the hospital. Mr. Livingstone. Whom I am trying to figure out if he is who he says he is or what is his motive in helping Phyllis, or is he helping her or playing for time.Should Jake be guarded while he's in the hospital?
I hope to make this a Novella - 35,000 words, but the story is growing like Topsy and I fear it is getting out of hand. I'm letting the story evolve on its own. Letting the story write itself. Seems far fetched and probably is but I'm in no hurry. I have published five romance novels, one not-fiction book and my latest, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY, e-published by Smashwords for $1.99.
So here is what I really hope you will do. Go to Smashwords and purchase my book. If you have a MAC, go to ibooks and purchase my book. Easy isn't it? $1.99
For my romance novels, A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
They are available from my publisher, Ellora's cave as e-books or in trade paperback. My two Isabelle stories are available in a handsome trade paperback. All my books can also be purchased from Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.com
I'm on Twitter (when I can find myself!) I will soon be on Facebook when I figure out how to do so.
In the meantime, keep reading and buying my books.
IMPORTANT: Let me interview you on this blog. Who are you? Are you writing? Thinking about writing. Knitting pretty things. We all have stories to tell. I heard a wonderful true story yesterday and will tell you about it tomorrow - if you ask me!
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Phyllis.The main protagonist. Angie (six years old) Jake who walked out on Phyllis ten years ago. She divorced him. He is unconscious in the hospital. Mr. Livingstone. Whom I am trying to figure out if he is who he says he is or what is his motive in helping Phyllis, or is he helping her or playing for time.Should Jake be guarded while he's in the hospital?
I hope to make this a Novella - 35,000 words, but the story is growing like Topsy and I fear it is getting out of hand. I'm letting the story evolve on its own. Letting the story write itself. Seems far fetched and probably is but I'm in no hurry. I have published five romance novels, one not-fiction book and my latest, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY, e-published by Smashwords for $1.99.
So here is what I really hope you will do. Go to Smashwords and purchase my book. If you have a MAC, go to ibooks and purchase my book. Easy isn't it? $1.99
For my romance novels, A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
They are available from my publisher, Ellora's cave as e-books or in trade paperback. My two Isabelle stories are available in a handsome trade paperback. All my books can also be purchased from Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.com
I'm on Twitter (when I can find myself!) I will soon be on Facebook when I figure out how to do so.
In the meantime, keep reading and buying my books.
IMPORTANT: Let me interview you on this blog. Who are you? Are you writing? Thinking about writing. Knitting pretty things. We all have stories to tell. I heard a wonderful true story yesterday and will tell you about it tomorrow - if you ask me!
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
All is peaceful and quiet after the celebration of Easter and its meaning. Back to writing, Phyllis. I have written 12,000 words and decided it was time to really get to know my characters. This always happens to me. I start writing the story and characters emerge and make their presence felt. Then the time comes when I must get to know those characters, who they are, how did they become who they are, did they fall afoul of problems in their life's journey, how did they get to become the character about whom I started writing.
There are three main characters in my book. Phyllis who is 39 years old, divorced. She's a chartered accountant. Has her own home.
Jake Bennett who has suddenly reappeared in Phyllis's life. More about him later.
Angie, six years old, a foundling, whom Jake found wandering on the road side.. Phyllis is forced to to care for Angie when Jake becomes seriously ill and ends up in hospital. Angie is a very bright child. She is a gifted artist for someone so young. She ran away from an abusive mother. It's a mystery to me (the author of this story) how Angie survived for several weeks before Jake picked her up. That I must think about. There is something about Angie - what is it?
Mr. Livingstone has walked into my story and I haven't a clue what to do with him. He's a Shaman, I think. He wants to help Phyllis but she doesn't want his help. Let's think of him as a skilled hypnotist who can tame a rowdy bunch of squawking, wing flapping geese,.
Four characters and the only one I'm sure about if Phyllis. I've been writing a short bio of Phyllis to get to know her better.
Until Jake returns to consciousness all I know about him is what Angie tells me.
There you have it. A story quite different from anything I've written before.
Please buy my books. THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY is available for purchase from Smashwords, and is also available at ibooks. Price: $1.99.
Also my romance novels available in e-format and trade paperback. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. .RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE
www,anitabirt.com
There are three main characters in my book. Phyllis who is 39 years old, divorced. She's a chartered accountant. Has her own home.
Jake Bennett who has suddenly reappeared in Phyllis's life. More about him later.
Angie, six years old, a foundling, whom Jake found wandering on the road side.. Phyllis is forced to to care for Angie when Jake becomes seriously ill and ends up in hospital. Angie is a very bright child. She is a gifted artist for someone so young. She ran away from an abusive mother. It's a mystery to me (the author of this story) how Angie survived for several weeks before Jake picked her up. That I must think about. There is something about Angie - what is it?
Mr. Livingstone has walked into my story and I haven't a clue what to do with him. He's a Shaman, I think. He wants to help Phyllis but she doesn't want his help. Let's think of him as a skilled hypnotist who can tame a rowdy bunch of squawking, wing flapping geese,.
Four characters and the only one I'm sure about if Phyllis. I've been writing a short bio of Phyllis to get to know her better.
Until Jake returns to consciousness all I know about him is what Angie tells me.
There you have it. A story quite different from anything I've written before.
Please buy my books. THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY is available for purchase from Smashwords, and is also available at ibooks. Price: $1.99.
Also my romance novels available in e-format and trade paperback. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. .RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE
www,anitabirt.com
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
Yesterday I mentioned the Peace Prayer of St. Francis.
"Lord, make an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow loves; where there is injury, pardon;
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive; it is pardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life."
Take what appeals to you from the prayer.
In past blogs I printed the Legend of the Hummingbird. Here it is again.
Legends say that Hummingbirds float free of time, carrying our hopes for love, joy and celebration.
The hummingbird's delicate grace reminds us that life is rich, beauty is everywhere, every personal connection has meaning and that laughter is life's sweetest creation.
Back to everyday things. I attended a lecture by a Shakespeare scholar on Richard III. I felt my brain shifting into high gear. It was enlightening to have a play analyzed - not too much -but to show how Richard played to the audience to have them understand who he was, etc.
I'm sending one of my unpublished romance novels to be formatted for Smashwords. I'll need a cover. No point having a manuscript lying around when it could be out there in the e-published world.
THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY. If you are a Mac user you can buy my book at ibooks. Otherwise go to Smashwords and find my story.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
"Lord, make an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow loves; where there is injury, pardon;
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive; it is pardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life."
Take what appeals to you from the prayer.
In past blogs I printed the Legend of the Hummingbird. Here it is again.
Legends say that Hummingbirds float free of time, carrying our hopes for love, joy and celebration.
The hummingbird's delicate grace reminds us that life is rich, beauty is everywhere, every personal connection has meaning and that laughter is life's sweetest creation.
Back to everyday things. I attended a lecture by a Shakespeare scholar on Richard III. I felt my brain shifting into high gear. It was enlightening to have a play analyzed - not too much -but to show how Richard played to the audience to have them understand who he was, etc.
I'm sending one of my unpublished romance novels to be formatted for Smashwords. I'll need a cover. No point having a manuscript lying around when it could be out there in the e-published world.
THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY. If you are a Mac user you can buy my book at ibooks. Otherwise go to Smashwords and find my story.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Monday, April 14, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
If there are living souls out there who might cast an eye on my blog, go to Smashwords and by my e-published book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY. Cost $1.99 I will send happy vibes as you download my book.
And so to other sad topics. The murder of Jewish people in Kansas as they prepared for Passover. What is it with hatred of Jews? They are a proud and resourceful people who have suffered at the hands of Christians for centuries.
I thought we Christians preached love and forgiveness. Seems we forget the basic teachings of Jesus to love one another. And God is reported to have replied,: "As I have loved you."
In Canada Jewish schools are targeted by witless thugs who probably can't read or write and have never read the Bible. How can hatred of the Jewish people continue generation after generation? It makes no sense to me. How can you hate something you do not know or understand?
Please enjoy this Passover time with Jews and Christians alike. And as Christians, (we seem to be the worst perpetrators) let us love and care for on another. Soon we will be celebrating Easter, let's make it a time of loving and caring for the Jewish people living in our midst.
On to another topic. I am writing a book that is taking me into strange happenings. I feel as if the story is intent on writing it's own content. Yesterday - no point in going into too many details but I came cross the prayer of St. Francis. I meant to download it before I started writing my blog to-day. I think it starts, "make me a channel of your peace..."
I'll print it. It is a beautiful meditation on prayer.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
And so to other sad topics. The murder of Jewish people in Kansas as they prepared for Passover. What is it with hatred of Jews? They are a proud and resourceful people who have suffered at the hands of Christians for centuries.
I thought we Christians preached love and forgiveness. Seems we forget the basic teachings of Jesus to love one another. And God is reported to have replied,: "As I have loved you."
In Canada Jewish schools are targeted by witless thugs who probably can't read or write and have never read the Bible. How can hatred of the Jewish people continue generation after generation? It makes no sense to me. How can you hate something you do not know or understand?
Please enjoy this Passover time with Jews and Christians alike. And as Christians, (we seem to be the worst perpetrators) let us love and care for on another. Soon we will be celebrating Easter, let's make it a time of loving and caring for the Jewish people living in our midst.
On to another topic. I am writing a book that is taking me into strange happenings. I feel as if the story is intent on writing it's own content. Yesterday - no point in going into too many details but I came cross the prayer of St. Francis. I meant to download it before I started writing my blog to-day. I think it starts, "make me a channel of your peace..."
I'll print it. It is a beautiful meditation on prayer.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Saturday, April 5, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!
My book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY, is published by Smashwords.com. It's an e-book ready for downloading on your e-reading device. The cost, $1.99. Make me happy and buy a copy. The story is fascinating and the cover is beautiful.
I loved writing the book, a radical change from writing my romance novels. It was fun and challenging. Imagine Ghost as one of the protagonists. You never see or hear Ghost. Ghost had a notion to write ghostly memoirs and needed a Ghost Writer. Lucky for Ghost, Liz Stanley, a published author, arrived at the retirement residence for a short stay.
But Ghost sensed a dark aura over the residence. Something was amiss. Liz's neighbor was murdered. Ghost and Liz, an intrepid pair of sleuths, set about searching for clues leading to the murder. What they found was more than they bargained for; Illegal drug dealing, diamond smuggling and money laundering. Bad news for the sleuths and worse to come.
Are you tempted buy? Go ahead. $1.99.
In the meantime my romance novels continue to sell. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
They are available in trade paperback and as e-books. ISABELLE has been published as a stand alone copy of the two Isabelle stories. It has a very handsome cover. Buy it as a gift for a reader in your family or for a friend or for your grandmother or a great aunt, if they are young at heart they'll enjoy ISABELLE.
I am delighted to have written another book in a totally different genre. It was heaps of fun. So download a copy of, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
My book, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY, is published by Smashwords.com. It's an e-book ready for downloading on your e-reading device. The cost, $1.99. Make me happy and buy a copy. The story is fascinating and the cover is beautiful.
I loved writing the book, a radical change from writing my romance novels. It was fun and challenging. Imagine Ghost as one of the protagonists. You never see or hear Ghost. Ghost had a notion to write ghostly memoirs and needed a Ghost Writer. Lucky for Ghost, Liz Stanley, a published author, arrived at the retirement residence for a short stay.
But Ghost sensed a dark aura over the residence. Something was amiss. Liz's neighbor was murdered. Ghost and Liz, an intrepid pair of sleuths, set about searching for clues leading to the murder. What they found was more than they bargained for; Illegal drug dealing, diamond smuggling and money laundering. Bad news for the sleuths and worse to come.
Are you tempted buy? Go ahead. $1.99.
In the meantime my romance novels continue to sell. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
They are available in trade paperback and as e-books. ISABELLE has been published as a stand alone copy of the two Isabelle stories. It has a very handsome cover. Buy it as a gift for a reader in your family or for a friend or for your grandmother or a great aunt, if they are young at heart they'll enjoy ISABELLE.
I am delighted to have written another book in a totally different genre. It was heaps of fun. So download a copy of, THE GHOST WRITER MYSTERY.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Sunday, March 30, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
Seems a long time since I last blogged. I wanted to find people interested in the topic of aging. It happens to all of us, kings, queens. dukes and duchesses. You can let a few wrinkles bother you or make more by laughing at yourself. We do have choices. We can be sad or happy. Depressed or optimistic. It's about dealing with life and how to live it.
Comments. Please.
Depressing article in The times Colonist, our Vancouver Island Newspaper. "SENIORS' HIDDEN DISEASE: DEPRESSION." Suicide among older men is not uncommon. Loneliness is a big issue. "Get out more." Easier said than done if you're basically a shy person who finds it hard to make friends or to mix in a group at a retirement residence. So much depends on your basic personality. And there may be financial difficulties and no way of earning extra money.
We hear so much about thinking ahead to retirement and making sure you'll have enough money to live comfortably. May not luxuriously but comfy.
Because I'm basically an optimistic person I find it difficult to get into the mind of someone how sees black when I see white or red or blue. I had lunch recently with an acquaintance who told me she was depressed, had been since her husband died two years ago. Our lives are never perfect. Loved ones die. How to get over the loss? Make a decision to do so.
Recovering from a devastating loss, the death of a child, for instance, isn't easy, but has to be done or stay stuck in the grief. And what is the point of that? Someone please tell me.
Enough of that. Sort it out and send a comment. Is there one single living soul out there who might come across my blog and comment, good or bad.
Could not walk this morning, strong wind and white caps on the sea . It's after two o'clock and I've lost the desire to put on my walking shoes, put on my coat and cap, grab my walking stick and take off. I walked the halls of the building where I live, that has to do for Sunday, March 30, 2014.
Buy my books. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE. Every story is different. Enjoy
Ania
www.anitabirt.com
Comments. Please.
Depressing article in The times Colonist, our Vancouver Island Newspaper. "SENIORS' HIDDEN DISEASE: DEPRESSION." Suicide among older men is not uncommon. Loneliness is a big issue. "Get out more." Easier said than done if you're basically a shy person who finds it hard to make friends or to mix in a group at a retirement residence. So much depends on your basic personality. And there may be financial difficulties and no way of earning extra money.
We hear so much about thinking ahead to retirement and making sure you'll have enough money to live comfortably. May not luxuriously but comfy.
Because I'm basically an optimistic person I find it difficult to get into the mind of someone how sees black when I see white or red or blue. I had lunch recently with an acquaintance who told me she was depressed, had been since her husband died two years ago. Our lives are never perfect. Loved ones die. How to get over the loss? Make a decision to do so.
Recovering from a devastating loss, the death of a child, for instance, isn't easy, but has to be done or stay stuck in the grief. And what is the point of that? Someone please tell me.
Enough of that. Sort it out and send a comment. Is there one single living soul out there who might come across my blog and comment, good or bad.
Could not walk this morning, strong wind and white caps on the sea . It's after two o'clock and I've lost the desire to put on my walking shoes, put on my coat and cap, grab my walking stick and take off. I walked the halls of the building where I live, that has to do for Sunday, March 30, 2014.
Buy my books. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE. Every story is different. Enjoy
Ania
www.anitabirt.com
Friday, March 28, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
Aging. I am aging too fast. Soon I'll be falling over the edge into immortality. Where there are no computers. No tired brain. Just me tuning my harp and singing loud and long.
Aging. A new movie called, Le Week-End. "Hard-headed look at 30-year marriage earns rave reviews." Here's a quote from the news paper article from the movie director, Roger Michell.
"I think old people are getting younger and old people have more time on their hands than they used..."
Old people as described in the film are more ambitious for their lives. They want a third act in their lives, which they can now have."
My third act is to continue writing as long as the spirit moves me and fresh ideas spring to life in the stories I'm writing. I am blessed with good health now. I am blessed with a loving family. I take long walks.
Now if I get my Ghost Writer Mystery e-published I will be renewed and will take some time off waiting for sales. If anyone is out there, watch for my news. I'll puts news on my Blog and on my Twitter account.
To go back to the beginning. If I sing loud and long the angels may beat their wings at me to shut me up.
In the meantime, continue buying my books. I do love those small royalty cheques. (English spelling) that come in once a month.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
Enjoy.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Aging. A new movie called, Le Week-End. "Hard-headed look at 30-year marriage earns rave reviews." Here's a quote from the news paper article from the movie director, Roger Michell.
"I think old people are getting younger and old people have more time on their hands than they used..."
Old people as described in the film are more ambitious for their lives. They want a third act in their lives, which they can now have."
My third act is to continue writing as long as the spirit moves me and fresh ideas spring to life in the stories I'm writing. I am blessed with good health now. I am blessed with a loving family. I take long walks.
Now if I get my Ghost Writer Mystery e-published I will be renewed and will take some time off waiting for sales. If anyone is out there, watch for my news. I'll puts news on my Blog and on my Twitter account.
To go back to the beginning. If I sing loud and long the angels may beat their wings at me to shut me up.
In the meantime, continue buying my books. I do love those small royalty cheques. (English spelling) that come in once a month.
A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
Enjoy.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
I am losing my grip on reality trying to down load my mystery novel to Smashwords.Inc.
Just one damned thing after another and I'm about ready to pitch in the towel and go to Amazon.com with my handsome book cover and let them have my manuscript to do with what they will.
That's my miserable rant for to-day. After playing Duplicate Bridge yesterday evening I watched the news at nine o'clock. Suddenly rain is bashing against my front window. I get up to look out. There's a roaring gale blowing. More winter type storm than spring. I wake up this morning and all is calm and peaceful. Where did such a sudden storm come from? We are having weird weather.
But my family living in the Toronto area are having much much worse. Warm spring temperatures have not arrived, instead it's -13 at night! I wonder if the Arctic ice is freezing? Or is the cold sitting on southern Canada and the northern United States?
Oops.I am supposed to be concentrating on AGING in my blog to lure interested thinkers. As I mentioned earlier, life is a terminal illness. Forget calling living an illness. Life terminates whether we like it or not. The best we can do is the "best we can do." Exercise if you can. Laugh as often as you can. Smile at strangers. Some will smile back. Others might not. Too bad for them. A smile is like a loving pat on the back. Read a lot if you like to and your eyes are up to the task.
I read three newspapers a day - skim bits and pieces, of course. But the news is so bad. The mud slide in Washington State is a horror story and it's not over yet. I feel for the men and women digging through the mud and debris.
Then there's the missing plane and the search for it in the Indian Ocean. And the Russians playing hard ball in the Crimea and so on and so on.
My son just phoned. He calls every day. Such a lovely man. All the men in my family are loving. So on that happy note I shall go somewhere.
Remember to buy my books. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
Go to my website to read reviews. www.anitabirt.com
Anita
Just one damned thing after another and I'm about ready to pitch in the towel and go to Amazon.com with my handsome book cover and let them have my manuscript to do with what they will.
That's my miserable rant for to-day. After playing Duplicate Bridge yesterday evening I watched the news at nine o'clock. Suddenly rain is bashing against my front window. I get up to look out. There's a roaring gale blowing. More winter type storm than spring. I wake up this morning and all is calm and peaceful. Where did such a sudden storm come from? We are having weird weather.
But my family living in the Toronto area are having much much worse. Warm spring temperatures have not arrived, instead it's -13 at night! I wonder if the Arctic ice is freezing? Or is the cold sitting on southern Canada and the northern United States?
Oops.I am supposed to be concentrating on AGING in my blog to lure interested thinkers. As I mentioned earlier, life is a terminal illness. Forget calling living an illness. Life terminates whether we like it or not. The best we can do is the "best we can do." Exercise if you can. Laugh as often as you can. Smile at strangers. Some will smile back. Others might not. Too bad for them. A smile is like a loving pat on the back. Read a lot if you like to and your eyes are up to the task.
I read three newspapers a day - skim bits and pieces, of course. But the news is so bad. The mud slide in Washington State is a horror story and it's not over yet. I feel for the men and women digging through the mud and debris.
Then there's the missing plane and the search for it in the Indian Ocean. And the Russians playing hard ball in the Crimea and so on and so on.
My son just phoned. He calls every day. Such a lovely man. All the men in my family are loving. So on that happy note I shall go somewhere.
Remember to buy my books. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
Go to my website to read reviews. www.anitabirt.com
Anita
Sunday, March 23, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
Life can be difficult. I wrote a long and interesting Blog about Happiness. The health benefits of smiling. About "High energy is usually a sign of very healthy mitochondria." inherited from mother. I've been high energy person all my life, even now as grow very old, my energy level is reasonably high - it's also important to exercise. That is why I take long walks.
I wrote abo9ut toilets, fancy new ones that washes from behind and from the front. Better rmodels allows for temperature control, direction and pressure control, retractable spritzer wands and automatic driers as well. No more toilet paper. Imagine. I really think I'd do without "spritzer wands." Imagine one of them losing control and waving madly around the basthroom.
I'm sad about losing my last blog. Can't think what I pressed that wiped it clean off the map. I'm away to think about having wine with my dinner. Comforting. Don't you agree?
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
I wrote abo9ut toilets, fancy new ones that washes from behind and from the front. Better rmodels allows for temperature control, direction and pressure control, retractable spritzer wands and automatic driers as well. No more toilet paper. Imagine. I really think I'd do without "spritzer wands." Imagine one of them losing control and waving madly around the basthroom.
I'm sad about losing my last blog. Can't think what I pressed that wiped it clean off the map. I'm away to think about having wine with my dinner. Comforting. Don't you agree?
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Saturday, March 22, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
HAPPINESS. What is it? Who has it? How do you find it?
Think of Happiness as a secret. Hidden in a dark woods. If you're afraid of the dark close your eyes then open them wide. Look around you. What do you see? People enjoying themselves and ...
Where are you in this picture? Hiding out. Afraid to let others see you. It's a mind game you're playing. Other people don't care a hoot about the game. You can change the rules so you win or you can stay in the dark place.
Truly. Take a risk. Smile at the first person you see to-day. It's good for your lips to smile. Try it. Now.
And that's my lecture for to-day. I ventured downtown this morning - easy to do in Victoria. Easy to park. Easy to find what I want. I found everyone helpful. I thanked them.
I Tweet now and find it difficult to do. It's not like my Blog where I can meander hither and yon. It's a new way of communicating and I'm not sure what I'm communicating and to whom.
But what the hell, it's like this Blog where no one comments. Or expresses a tiny bit of interest. Tomorrow I may Blog about what it feels like to grow old. I'm there. So what is it like?
My books are out there in e-format and trade paper back. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
A Very Difficult Man is a historical romance set in England, 1854.
Isabelle's Diary is a contemporary romance with a mystery or is it a Ghost?
Isabelle's Story. Takes place in England and Wales, 1899. Did he abandon her after their lovemaking?
Ring Around the Moon. A time travel with a difference. He comes from two hundred years in the past to the present time. Problems mount when he falls in love with an American visiting Cornwall.
TooYoung To Die a contemporary murder/mystery. The heroine has a three month old baby to look after and escapes from murderous thugs in the dead of night into the dark forest deep in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State. Baby in her arms she stumbles on until ...
Buy my books and enjoy good reads.
www.anitabirt.com
Think of Happiness as a secret. Hidden in a dark woods. If you're afraid of the dark close your eyes then open them wide. Look around you. What do you see? People enjoying themselves and ...
Where are you in this picture? Hiding out. Afraid to let others see you. It's a mind game you're playing. Other people don't care a hoot about the game. You can change the rules so you win or you can stay in the dark place.
Truly. Take a risk. Smile at the first person you see to-day. It's good for your lips to smile. Try it. Now.
And that's my lecture for to-day. I ventured downtown this morning - easy to do in Victoria. Easy to park. Easy to find what I want. I found everyone helpful. I thanked them.
I Tweet now and find it difficult to do. It's not like my Blog where I can meander hither and yon. It's a new way of communicating and I'm not sure what I'm communicating and to whom.
But what the hell, it's like this Blog where no one comments. Or expresses a tiny bit of interest. Tomorrow I may Blog about what it feels like to grow old. I'm there. So what is it like?
My books are out there in e-format and trade paper back. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE.
A Very Difficult Man is a historical romance set in England, 1854.
Isabelle's Diary is a contemporary romance with a mystery or is it a Ghost?
Isabelle's Story. Takes place in England and Wales, 1899. Did he abandon her after their lovemaking?
Ring Around the Moon. A time travel with a difference. He comes from two hundred years in the past to the present time. Problems mount when he falls in love with an American visiting Cornwall.
TooYoung To Die a contemporary murder/mystery. The heroine has a three month old baby to look after and escapes from murderous thugs in the dead of night into the dark forest deep in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State. Baby in her arms she stumbles on until ...
Buy my books and enjoy good reads.
www.anitabirt.com
Friday, March 21, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
Life is full of surprises. I copied my St.Patrick Ode to my blog. It used all the space and there was nowhere for me to comment. I hope someone enjoyed reading it. I enjoyed writing it. Now to serious business. My blog is a complete failure because it wanders all over the place. I do not have a theme. Have I some expertise about some thing I could build on? Like. How to grow old gracefully or not as the case may be. How to continue writing as I grow older and older? Those are the two themes that come to mind.
Aging is a fact of life. Life is a terminal illness. How to make those last years memorable or interesting not just for me but for others growing old. The trouble is I can speak only for myself. I can't speak for someone wrestling with painful arthritis, for instance. Or having to give up walking unaided. Or how to remain reasonably cheerful when you are stuck in a wheel chair for ever and ever.
I am an optimistic soul most of the time unless something makes me temporarily grumpy. So how does someone face the final years of life with a negative attitude? Getting out of bed in the morning is an effort and hardly worth doing at all because the day ahead is not every interesting.
Oh dear, this sounds so dull. Getting old, as I said above, is a fact of life. So how does one greet each day? Try a smile. I'm not kidding. If you can, stand up straight arms above your head and smile. Do this a few times and I guarantee you'll feel better.
If you can't stand up straight (you're in a walker for instance) sit up as best you can. Raise your arms as high as you can. Smile. Your can add to the smile by saying. "I'm not perfect but I'm okay."
Do you have friends? Friends are important to me as I grow older. With whom do you share laughs? Or tell jokes.
Do you play any games? Bridge. Scrabble. Chess. Something to tease your brain into thinking and paying attention.
That is it for to-day. Next blog will focus on what makes you happy? If no one comments I'll figure no one cares about happiness. So I shall care about myself and bore you to tears. Are you buying my books? A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE. There's a book to suit every taste. Dip in. Try one or two.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Aging is a fact of life. Life is a terminal illness. How to make those last years memorable or interesting not just for me but for others growing old. The trouble is I can speak only for myself. I can't speak for someone wrestling with painful arthritis, for instance. Or having to give up walking unaided. Or how to remain reasonably cheerful when you are stuck in a wheel chair for ever and ever.
I am an optimistic soul most of the time unless something makes me temporarily grumpy. So how does someone face the final years of life with a negative attitude? Getting out of bed in the morning is an effort and hardly worth doing at all because the day ahead is not every interesting.
Oh dear, this sounds so dull. Getting old, as I said above, is a fact of life. So how does one greet each day? Try a smile. I'm not kidding. If you can, stand up straight arms above your head and smile. Do this a few times and I guarantee you'll feel better.
If you can't stand up straight (you're in a walker for instance) sit up as best you can. Raise your arms as high as you can. Smile. Your can add to the smile by saying. "I'm not perfect but I'm okay."
Do you have friends? Friends are important to me as I grow older. With whom do you share laughs? Or tell jokes.
Do you play any games? Bridge. Scrabble. Chess. Something to tease your brain into thinking and paying attention.
That is it for to-day. Next blog will focus on what makes you happy? If no one comments I'll figure no one cares about happiness. So I shall care about myself and bore you to tears. Are you buying my books? A VERY DIFFICULT MAN. ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE. There's a book to suit every taste. Dip in. Try one or two.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
Thursday, March 20, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
ODE TO St. Patrick
By Anita Birt
There once was a boy named
Patrick
Who lived most of his life
in an attic.
On a bright summer day
He went out to play
Saw a snake in the grass and
smashed it.
Patrick puffed up his chest
And said loud and clear
“I’ll kill all the snakes in
less than a year.”
He set out on his task
With a bat and an axe
And killed all the snakes
Without shedding a tear.
While he was away for a year
and a day
The slugs and the snails and
various bugs
Ate up the crops
With nothing to stop them.
“Bring back the snakes,” hungry
people cried
“We need potatoes to bake
potato pies.”
They chased Patrick back to
his home in the attic
Where he sat with his head
in his hands.
“I’ll do better next time,”
He said to himself.
“I’ll pray for the people.
I’ll build a church with a
steeple
And God will take care of
the rest.”
Moral: Beware of Unintended
Consequences.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
Did anyone miss me? My computer was away being serviced. Altogether I had no computer for ten days. I felt as if I'd lost part of an arm or half a foot. What to do with spare time? I read. I thought about "Phyllis." the name of a strange book I'm writing. Also about "Norah," next in the Ghost Writer Series. But until I'm sitting at my computer with the story in front of me, my creative brain turns off.
Sort of like the missing aircraft when someone, (one of the pilots) turned off all the communication equipment. Now I'm back I shall get to work. But - The Ghost Writer Mystery manuscript is formatted and read for uploading to Smashwords. Big Sigh. I don't know how to do that.
Our resident librarian asked us to write a limerick about St. Patrick, on March 17th. I wrote a limerick and then went on writing, in rhyming lines about the good saint. He made a mistake and hunger stalked the land. It was fun to write. I shall copy it on my next blog.
I'm on Twitter now and am now sure how to Tweet and what to Tweet about that might bevaguely interesting to another Tweeter..
Spring is not doing it's springy thing on Vancouver Island. Yes, we have daffodils blooming in fields and on hillsides. but we need sun and a rise in temperature. We are better off than my family who live in the Toronto area. It's been a cold, cold winter with no relief in sight. Niagara Falls is mostly frozen! Canadians can tough out the wretched cold but how about giving us a break, weather god.
I have to Tweet!!!
Anita Birt,
www.anitabirt.com
Sort of like the missing aircraft when someone, (one of the pilots) turned off all the communication equipment. Now I'm back I shall get to work. But - The Ghost Writer Mystery manuscript is formatted and read for uploading to Smashwords. Big Sigh. I don't know how to do that.
Our resident librarian asked us to write a limerick about St. Patrick, on March 17th. I wrote a limerick and then went on writing, in rhyming lines about the good saint. He made a mistake and hunger stalked the land. It was fun to write. I shall copy it on my next blog.
I'm on Twitter now and am now sure how to Tweet and what to Tweet about that might bevaguely interesting to another Tweeter..
Spring is not doing it's springy thing on Vancouver Island. Yes, we have daffodils blooming in fields and on hillsides. but we need sun and a rise in temperature. We are better off than my family who live in the Toronto area. It's been a cold, cold winter with no relief in sight. Niagara Falls is mostly frozen! Canadians can tough out the wretched cold but how about giving us a break, weather god.
I have to Tweet!!!
Anita Birt,
www.anitabirt.com
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
ANITA BIRT - WEAVER OF TALES
Just look at the date. My last post was back in February. I do have an excuse. I am trying, without success, to up-load my book, The Ghost Writer Mystery, to Smashwords. They're supposed to be the place to go toget extensive marketing of e-books. I am hitting my poor head against a wall day after day. I write long and short blurbs to go to retailers with my book. I write my profile. I price my book. I do everything except sing and dance and plead for assistance. And I need an ISBN.
I'm going to type the link to my cover and see if it works. If it does please let me know ASAP. Here it is: theghostwritermystery_cover1.jpg Try it on Google, it might work there. I'd better test it.
The daffodils are blooming along the edge of a stand of bushes and tress across the road. They propagate and more and more appear every year. The flowering trees lining our streets are all pink and pretty. As the weeks go by different trees bloom until May when the dark pink flowers appear.
Daylight Saving Time starts on March 9. Spring your clocks forward one hour. Why can't we stay on Standard Time all year round?
Must go and go head to head with Smashwords for a half hour or so. I'm sick of them. I'm sick of trying.
There, I got that off my chest. I'd make a cup of tea but I don't have any milk and I like milk in my tea. I'll have wine with my dinner this evening and smile, as I'm doing now.
Keep buying my romance novels. They are never out-of-date. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE. The two Isabelle stories are published together in a trade paperback titled. ISABELLE. A super gift for a reader in your life or for yourself. Indulge.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
I'm going to type the link to my cover and see if it works. If it does please let me know ASAP. Here it is: theghostwritermystery_cover1.jpg Try it on Google, it might work there. I'd better test it.
The daffodils are blooming along the edge of a stand of bushes and tress across the road. They propagate and more and more appear every year. The flowering trees lining our streets are all pink and pretty. As the weeks go by different trees bloom until May when the dark pink flowers appear.
Daylight Saving Time starts on March 9. Spring your clocks forward one hour. Why can't we stay on Standard Time all year round?
Must go and go head to head with Smashwords for a half hour or so. I'm sick of them. I'm sick of trying.
There, I got that off my chest. I'd make a cup of tea but I don't have any milk and I like milk in my tea. I'll have wine with my dinner this evening and smile, as I'm doing now.
Keep buying my romance novels. They are never out-of-date. A VERY DIFFICULT MAN, ISABELLE'S DIARY. ISABELLE'S STORY. RING AROUND THE MOON. TOO YOUNG TO DIE. The two Isabelle stories are published together in a trade paperback titled. ISABELLE. A super gift for a reader in your life or for yourself. Indulge.
Anita
www.anitabirt.com
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