My kid: Can I run on the treadmill?
Me: Treadmill? Didn't you just say you were tired?
My kid: Yes, how else do you expect me to wake up?
Monday, July 20, 2009
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Love on the Metro
I really really liked the tatoo, so I snuck this shot while riding on the metro in Paris...
Friday, July 17, 2009
Voice Exercise
Try this:
Take a deep breath...no deeper....come on take a great big breath
Now as you exhale, count as fast as you can
keep counting fast fast fast super fast until you have to take another breath
How high did you count?
I got 78
This is an exercise my nephew's voice coach gave him.
Try it
& leave your number in the comment section
Take a deep breath...no deeper....come on take a great big breath
Now as you exhale, count as fast as you can
keep counting fast fast fast super fast until you have to take another breath
How high did you count?
I got 78
This is an exercise my nephew's voice coach gave him.
Try it
& leave your number in the comment section
Friday, July 10, 2009
You know you're a writer when....
I told my youngest I would knit her a case for her new flute (the kids wear them around their neck during performances here)
She said, "Thanks, but what I really need is a script for a movie idea."
She went on to give me my assignment -
I think I can write about anything as long as I work in her new gold cat mask and give her sister a part that requires her to chew the fake blood tablets they bought last week...
(I think I'm going to keep my day job!)
She said, "Thanks, but what I really need is a script for a movie idea."
She went on to give me my assignment -
I think I can write about anything as long as I work in her new gold cat mask and give her sister a part that requires her to chew the fake blood tablets they bought last week...
(I think I'm going to keep my day job!)
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
10 x 10 Contest
My birthday is on the 10th!!!!
I would like to give a birthday present to my blog readers (who are writers).
The FIRST EVER July Tenth 10 x 10 contest
How it works:
You send me (email not to be posted on the blog) the first 10 lines of your ms
I will select winners for 10 page critiques (many winners...not sure how many until I read all of the entries.)
Please post a note in the comment section each time you send me an email and write 10 x 10 in the subject line of your email.
There is no limit to the number of times you can enter - so go ahead enter as many mss as you like.
I will send a brief critique of EVERY 10 line submission and I will notify those who win the critique by email.
Deadline? I'm going to be celebrating my birthday all weekend, so you can send your entries until dawn on Monday (that's when the w/e is officially over, right?)
My email? angelacerrito AT yahoo DOT com
I would like to give a birthday present to my blog readers (who are writers).
The FIRST EVER July Tenth 10 x 10 contest
How it works:
You send me (email not to be posted on the blog) the first 10 lines of your ms
I will select winners for 10 page critiques (many winners...not sure how many until I read all of the entries.)
Please post a note in the comment section each time you send me an email and write 10 x 10 in the subject line of your email.
There is no limit to the number of times you can enter - so go ahead enter as many mss as you like.
I will send a brief critique of EVERY 10 line submission and I will notify those who win the critique by email.
Deadline? I'm going to be celebrating my birthday all weekend, so you can send your entries until dawn on Monday (that's when the w/e is officially over, right?)
My email? angelacerrito AT yahoo DOT com
Monday, July 6, 2009
Wild Wonderings
"Mom, there's something I'd really like to know."
"What?"
"Well, it's about w."
"W?"
"In English, why don't they call w double v?"
"What?"
"Well, it's about w."
"W?"
"In English, why don't they call w double v?"
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Sensory Walk
This is one of my favorite sensory motor activities for preschoolers
This was 15 stations but a sensory walk can have many more or as few as three or four stations.
It's fun for students to collect the materials for the sensory walk.
I loved the descriptions the kids used for the different textures. Best of all were the big smiles when the students made it to the end without help or when they "survived" stepping into something they really wanted to avoid.
Can you guess the area most of the children resisted stepping in?(cotton balls, feathers, leaves, soft spike balls, small sticks, big sticks, big stones, small stones, cork, pine cones, grass, mud, or water?)
This was 15 stations but a sensory walk can have many more or as few as three or four stations.
It's fun for students to collect the materials for the sensory walk.
I loved the descriptions the kids used for the different textures. Best of all were the big smiles when the students made it to the end without help or when they "survived" stepping into something they really wanted to avoid.
Can you guess the area most of the children resisted stepping in?(cotton balls, feathers, leaves, soft spike balls, small sticks, big sticks, big stones, small stones, cork, pine cones, grass, mud, or water?)
Friday, June 19, 2009
Overheard: How do YOU say salsa?
A couple in the booth behind me at a family restaurant -
She said: You're saying it wrong. It’s not sal-SA, it’s SALsa. Say SALsa.
He said: sal-SA
She said: No, you’re not listening. SALsa.
He said: Sal-SA.
She said: Are you doing that on purpose?
He laughed. He said: No. God what difference does it make?
She said: When you say it like that you’re not even saying the same word. Just say SAL
He said: SAL
She said: Now “sa”
He said: “sa”
She said: Good now, SALsa.
He said: Sal-SA.
Pause
He said: Sorry. That’s just how I say it. So what?
She said: So, you can paint my house.
He said: You can paint my house.
What do you think? Does it matter?
If I can understand someone I don’t correct them.
Also I like to make up words. The other day I used “unintuitive” instead of counterintuitive - everyone knew what I meant. And instead of correcting me, someone said, “I like that word. I’m going to write it down and use it.” I warned her that it might not be a word. She said, “I don’t care. I’m using it."
She said: You're saying it wrong. It’s not sal-SA, it’s SALsa. Say SALsa.
He said: sal-SA
She said: No, you’re not listening. SALsa.
He said: Sal-SA.
She said: Are you doing that on purpose?
He laughed. He said: No. God what difference does it make?
She said: When you say it like that you’re not even saying the same word. Just say SAL
He said: SAL
She said: Now “sa”
He said: “sa”
She said: Good now, SALsa.
He said: Sal-SA.
Pause
He said: Sorry. That’s just how I say it. So what?
She said: So, you can paint my house.
He said: You can paint my house.
What do you think? Does it matter?
If I can understand someone I don’t correct them.
Also I like to make up words. The other day I used “unintuitive” instead of counterintuitive - everyone knew what I meant. And instead of correcting me, someone said, “I like that word. I’m going to write it down and use it.” I warned her that it might not be a word. She said, “I don’t care. I’m using it."
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Kid talk: The wine smells like…
I think I should call this post “kids say the grossest things!” We had guests over for dinner last night and there was a lengthy discussion between the adults about the wine. Each adult tried to convince me they smelled a sweet fruit or a flower fragrance in the wine. I wrote it off to the power of suggestion (and to eating outside surrounded by blooming flowers).
Finally the kids had to get into the mix and wine glasses were passed around the table.
Our youngest guest, a boy of five, reminded me of the character from The Emperor’s New Clothes. He stuck his nose in the class obviously expected to smell pears, caramel, or honeysuckle that everyone else was gushing about. He smelled –wine.
“Eww!” He said and pulled his head away fast.
“What did it smell like?” I asked. I had hope that I would finally get an honest answer.
“Snot!”
His older sister had to argue. “You can’t even smell snot. It’s inside your nose.”
But there was no swaying this kid. “I can smell everything that is inside my nose,” he said. “Especially snot. And that stuff smells just like snot.”
Finally the kids had to get into the mix and wine glasses were passed around the table.
Our youngest guest, a boy of five, reminded me of the character from The Emperor’s New Clothes. He stuck his nose in the class obviously expected to smell pears, caramel, or honeysuckle that everyone else was gushing about. He smelled –wine.
“Eww!” He said and pulled his head away fast.
“What did it smell like?” I asked. I had hope that I would finally get an honest answer.
“Snot!”
His older sister had to argue. “You can’t even smell snot. It’s inside your nose.”
But there was no swaying this kid. “I can smell everything that is inside my nose,” he said. “Especially snot. And that stuff smells just like snot.”
Friday, June 12, 2009
And the winners are...
Bish & Vijaya
Please e-mail me your address so I can send your copy of WHEN THE WHISTLE BLOWS by Fran Cannon Slayton. I know you will enjoy the novel as much as I did!
Saturday, June 6, 2009
WHEN THE WHISTLE BLOWS by Fran Cannon Slayton
*Contest*Contest*Contest*Contest*Contest*Contest*
In the opening chapter of WHEN THE WHISLE BLOWS Jimmy reluctantly slips out of the house with his older brother in the middle of the night. It’s All Hallows Eve and their destination is the local funeral home. There they learn that childhood rumors are true. The town really has a secret group ‘The Society.’ And its members include their father and oldest brother.
Each chapter is engaging as the first and all take place on All Hallows Eve. Throughout the novel Jimmy attempts to puzzle out the mystery of his father. There is a palpable tension between father and son and Jimmy’s feelings for his father are a complicated stew of frustration, anger, desire, and fear. His emotions are so sharp, reading felt like eavesdropping.
One of Jimmy’s temporary solutions is to put a distance between him and his father. At the same time Jimmy is itching to get closer to his future. He can only imagine living the life of a railroader but his father insists times are changing. And this time, Dad is right.
Railroading life is changing for good. The town is slowly dying from the loss of jobs. And only a short time after his boyhood pranks, football tournaments, and family struggles, Jimmy finds a path for his future. But before that he figures out something that matters even more, his father.
Review notes:
1. I couldn’t shake the “This reminds me of something” feeling I got while reading WHEN THE WHISTLE BLOWS. I searched my mind. But came up with nothing. Old TV shows? No. A movie? None that I could think of. Another book? There is no other book like this one. Finally, it hit me.
Life.
WHEN THE WHISTLE BLOWS reminded me of real life. The complicated interplay between family members that exists everywhere.
2. When I first met Fran Cannon Slayton. I first met Fran at a SCBWI event. My friends and I were stragglers. Not wanted to leave the informal critique groups, we hung around reading, critiquing, and talking while other groups were breaking up.
Fran found us and joined in. We asked about her work and she was initially reluctant. “I have something I want to read,” she said. “But I just read it for the other group and I’m not sure.”
“Read it,” we insisted.
She read the first chapter of the novel that eventually became WHEN THE WHISTLE BLOWS and we were mesmerized. Wow. We all gushed over it. And then it hit us -she almost didn’t read it to us because of that mean other group.
“What did they say to you?” We wanted to know so we could defend her.
Shyly Fran shrugged her shoulders. “They liked it too,” she admitted. “But I wasn’t sure.”
**** CONTEST ****
I usually donate my review copies but this time I was lucky enough to get an ARC from Fran herself and I'm not giving it up.
Instead, I'm having a contest!
Two copies of WHEN THE WHISTLE BLOWS will be awarded to blog readers.
How: Write about traveling by train or living in a community with trains. Your sub can be fiction / creative nf / nf / memoir/ poetry. Do not to exceed 300 words!
Where: in the comment section of this post
When: Before the release date 11 June 2009 (Cut off time 2am EST in the US on 11 June 2009)
Judges: Two blog readers will win a copy of WHEN THE WHISTLE BLOWS. One winner will be selected by Fran Slayton and one will be selected by Angela Cerrito.
Details: You can enter as many times as you wish. Each entry must be posted as a new comment and be a unique submission.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
Questions - Changing the world
Two Questions:
1. Yes or No - do you think you can change the world?
2. If you could change the world, how would you do it?
1. Yes or No - do you think you can change the world?
2. If you could change the world, how would you do it?
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Autism: Get Ready for next school year NOW
If your son or daughter has a diagnosis on the autism spectrum, now is the time to start thinking about next school year.
Three Tips:
1. Visit the new classroom or new school. Explore the new school. Find the cafeteria, the gym (and locker room) and each classroom. Get a map –or make one yourself.
2. Meet with the teacher one-on-one and talk about what to expect next year. See if it would be possible for the student to spend some time in the classroom this year. Make sure your child is aware of any new expectations / rules. And think about safety. Do students go off campus at lunch? Does your child have a favorite hobby / activity that can continue next year? Better yet can it continue over the summer at summer school or summer camp?
3. Ask the new teacher to share your phone number with future classmates who might be a good match for your child. Take time in the summer to set up successful outings for your child with some of his / her new classmates.
If setting up time with peers has been a frustration in the past, Dr. Lynn Koegel has great strategies for planning successful social activities for kids with autism spectrum disorders check out some of her books for ideas.
And enjoy summer vacation!!!
Three Tips:
1. Visit the new classroom or new school. Explore the new school. Find the cafeteria, the gym (and locker room) and each classroom. Get a map –or make one yourself.
2. Meet with the teacher one-on-one and talk about what to expect next year. See if it would be possible for the student to spend some time in the classroom this year. Make sure your child is aware of any new expectations / rules. And think about safety. Do students go off campus at lunch? Does your child have a favorite hobby / activity that can continue next year? Better yet can it continue over the summer at summer school or summer camp?
3. Ask the new teacher to share your phone number with future classmates who might be a good match for your child. Take time in the summer to set up successful outings for your child with some of his / her new classmates.
If setting up time with peers has been a frustration in the past, Dr. Lynn Koegel has great strategies for planning successful social activities for kids with autism spectrum disorders check out some of her books for ideas.
And enjoy summer vacation!!!
Monday, May 18, 2009
Kid Talk (I'm too much!)
My bling is plastic because that’s what it takes in the circles I run with (babies, toddlers, and preschoolers).
Here’s a recent conversation with a young boy who is three.
Him: What’s that?
Me: A ring
Him: With a big red flower on it?
Me: Yeah, with a big red flower on it.
Him: What’s that?
Me: A bracelet
Him: With ABCs on it?
Me: Yeah, with ABCs on it.
Him: Girl, you’re too much.
As you can imagine I had no response other than laughter.
That’s me, I go all out with the plastic!!!
Don't fear I really do have book reviews and a couple of contests coming up. The Kid Talk has just been so great lately, I can't help but post it!
Here’s a recent conversation with a young boy who is three.
Him: What’s that?
Me: A ring
Him: With a big red flower on it?
Me: Yeah, with a big red flower on it.
Him: What’s that?
Me: A bracelet
Him: With ABCs on it?
Me: Yeah, with ABCs on it.
Him: Girl, you’re too much.
As you can imagine I had no response other than laughter.
That’s me, I go all out with the plastic!!!
Don't fear I really do have book reviews and a couple of contests coming up. The Kid Talk has just been so great lately, I can't help but post it!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Autism Red Flag: Elopement
Schools typically have strategies in place for students on the Autism Spectrum who elope, or run away, from school.
But often this behavior is noticed by parents at a much younger age.
If you notice your toddler seems to be enticed by any doorway, wander away in crowds, or fear he has the tendency to “just wander off with anyone” this is cause for concern. From a young age children typically develop an awareness of where their primary caregiver is when out and about. A toddler only a few feet from a parent who is out of their line of sight will turn in circles looking up and down for Mom or Dad. This is true in daycare setting too when the class moves from room to room or takes a walk, two year olds typically prefer to stay with their peers and caregivers.
Sure toddlers are curious. Sometimes they wander or follow the wrong pair of legs thinking they are following a parent. (Some will even reach up and grab the wrong persons’ hand accidentally). But toddlers become immediately upset when they realize the hand does not belong to Mom or Dad.
Some children on the autism spectrum are elopers. They want to go through any door. They love to be outside. They have no fear of cars or strangers.
If your toddler fits this description have a conversation with your pediatrician about this behavior.
Why is early diagnosis important? Because early diagnosis gives parents more time to investigate the best treatment. And early treatment can make a world of difference for an entire family!
What is a Red Flag? Red Flags are indicators that further investigation is necessary. A red flag (or even two or three) are not in and of themselves a diagnosis, just a sign that a professional consultation is recommended.
Note: Not all children who elope or wander have a diagnosis of autism. But medical consultation is required to determine the cause (and best treatment) for this behavior.
But often this behavior is noticed by parents at a much younger age.
If you notice your toddler seems to be enticed by any doorway, wander away in crowds, or fear he has the tendency to “just wander off with anyone” this is cause for concern. From a young age children typically develop an awareness of where their primary caregiver is when out and about. A toddler only a few feet from a parent who is out of their line of sight will turn in circles looking up and down for Mom or Dad. This is true in daycare setting too when the class moves from room to room or takes a walk, two year olds typically prefer to stay with their peers and caregivers.
Sure toddlers are curious. Sometimes they wander or follow the wrong pair of legs thinking they are following a parent. (Some will even reach up and grab the wrong persons’ hand accidentally). But toddlers become immediately upset when they realize the hand does not belong to Mom or Dad.
Some children on the autism spectrum are elopers. They want to go through any door. They love to be outside. They have no fear of cars or strangers.
If your toddler fits this description have a conversation with your pediatrician about this behavior.
Why is early diagnosis important? Because early diagnosis gives parents more time to investigate the best treatment. And early treatment can make a world of difference for an entire family!
What is a Red Flag? Red Flags are indicators that further investigation is necessary. A red flag (or even two or three) are not in and of themselves a diagnosis, just a sign that a professional consultation is recommended.
Note: Not all children who elope or wander have a diagnosis of autism. But medical consultation is required to determine the cause (and best treatment) for this behavior.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Kid talk: Favorite Colors
My girls were both around three when they zeroed in on a favorite color. I can’t think of a better way to illustrate their oppositeness.
Alexandria: Mommy, what’s your favorite color?
Me: Red
Alexandria: No, red is my favorite color. You have to pick a different one.
Samantha: Mommy, what’s your favorite color?
Me: Red
Samantha: I like yellow. Yours should be yellow too.
I notice when adults try to develop a rapport with kids they ask about siblings, pets, school, games and friends. But when preschoolers and kindergartners want to get to know a new teacher they ask about favorites. Most kids ask my favorite color, favorite foods, and favorite movies. But there’s always one kid in the bunch who wants to know my favorite dinosaur or favorite car.
So what’s your favorite color?
Alexandria: Mommy, what’s your favorite color?
Me: Red
Alexandria: No, red is my favorite color. You have to pick a different one.
Samantha: Mommy, what’s your favorite color?
Me: Red
Samantha: I like yellow. Yours should be yellow too.
I notice when adults try to develop a rapport with kids they ask about siblings, pets, school, games and friends. But when preschoolers and kindergartners want to get to know a new teacher they ask about favorites. Most kids ask my favorite color, favorite foods, and favorite movies. But there’s always one kid in the bunch who wants to know my favorite dinosaur or favorite car.
So what’s your favorite color?
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Overheard: My Mother's Day Card
My sweet and silly family created a new twist on the “your mama” jokes and presented me with this card today:
Alexandria: My mama’s soooo pretty she causes traffic accidents at intersections.
Samantha: My mama’s so super the hero changed his name to “Angela Man”
Terry: My wife is so sweet they changed the name of honey to “Angela”
Aren't they GREAT?!
Happy Mother's Day everyone!
Alexandria: My mama’s soooo pretty she causes traffic accidents at intersections.
Samantha: My mama’s so super the hero changed his name to “Angela Man”
Terry: My wife is so sweet they changed the name of honey to “Angela”
Aren't they GREAT?!
Happy Mother's Day everyone!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Poetry Friday: WHAT MY GIRLFRIEND DOESN’T KNOW Continued by Angela Cerrito
WHAT MY GIRLFRIEND DOESN’T KNOW is the follow-up YA novel in verse to WHAT MY MOTHER DOESN’T KNOW, both books are by Sonya Sones.
In the first book, Sophie talks about falling in love…deep, wonderful, mysterious first-love love with a boy who wears a mask to the costume ball. Over break she discovers he’s the class loser, Murphy. The book ends with a question: what will happen when school starts again?
WHAT MY GIRLFRIEND DOESN’T KNOW picks up at that first day back to school and continues in verse but from Murphy’s (aka Robin’s) point of view. This book also ends on a cliffhanger leaving the reader to wonder, did they break up? For real? Forever? Really?
At the beginning of the year Sones had a contest for readers to continue the story where WHAT MY GIRLFRIEND DOESN’T KNOW ends, but changing back to Sophie’s point of view. I was too old (over 18) to enter and my daughter too young (not yet 13). But I played just for fun.
This is my first fan fiction….
The poems below continue the story in the spirit of the contest. All poems were written by Angela Cerrito.
ROBIN’S HAND
is covering mine
but he isn’t
really
holding it
and his touch
doesn’t electrify
my skin
His hand is
asking my hand
a question
and I don’t know
the answer
HIS WORDS
repeat in my head
“Sometimes I don’t know anything.”
It doesn’t feel like enough.
If seven roses
and seven valentines
and a cartoon
aren’t enough…
…could anything be?
I study his pale fingers
laid across my newly tanned knuckles.
I know I can draw
the connection
but I can’t feel it.
I wish for a shock, a charge
Something.
Because my chest feels
heavy like someone I know
just died.
I say his words
to see if sound
will give them
substance.
“Sometimes I don’t know anything.”
And my words
sound useless
like five stones
flung into a river
Plop! Plop! Plop! Plop! Plop!
I KNOW
Robin’s eyes
are boring
into my head
waiting
for something
Only two days
apart
but so much
Robin doesn’t know
about me
about Grace
about Rachel
about Riley
GRACE
sent a text
before I left town
only two words
miss you
It made my brain tilt
and my guilt swim away
Because breaking Grace and Rachel apart
felt almost as bad
as losing them both
It has been us three
together forever.
RACHEL
turns the heads of every lifeguard
of every guy
and she doesn’t even have to smile.
Walking next to her
I feel
like a chair
or a towel
or a candy wrapper tossed to the ground.
like something
everyone passes
without even noticing
RILEY
said he was only sixteen
But Rachel said he’s way older
and to trust her because she would know.
Riley works at the resort
Riley’s muscles shimmer from working outside
Riley’s green eyes whispered
secrets that made my stomach fall
made me want to run to him
Riley’s eyes were strong,
strong enough
to carry me out to sea
RACHEL SAID
I was crazy
to look twice at Riley
when I was going out with Robin
She was actually worried
“Robin will be furious with me!
He’s already upset that you’re away.”
Rachel NEVER calls Robin Murphy anymore
And she really cares
what he thinks of her
ROBIN MOVED
his hand away
Burned by the coolness
of my hand, frozen stiff underneath his.
My eyes, still not brave enough to meet his.
He cleared his throat
in an awkward, hopeful way
that made my heart break.
I didn’t want to lift my head,
didn’t want to meet his eyes,
didn’t want to say the words,
It’s over.
The words I still have to say to Grace.
GRACE’S SECOND TEXT MESSAGE
beeped on my phone
right when flight attendant demanded
we turn off our cell phones
I opened her message while pretending to click my phone off
G8 ur finished being queen of loserville c u 2nite?
And I knew I’d never be her friend again
Not in a sad way, but in a matter-of-fact way
like when you want to buy something that is out of your price range
or the wrong size
Just because Grace used to be a best friend
doesn’t mean she’d always be a friend, no matter how many times
we had promised it.
And Robin?
He wasn’t my first boyfriend
He wouldn’t be my last boyfriend. It wasn’t like we were going
to get married. Or anything.
Robin slapped his hands down on his knees
and stood up from the bench
slowly, like the old men at the park
when they run out of food for the pigeons
I WATCHED OUT OF THE CORNER OF MY EYE
for him to pass in front of me and walk out of the room
Wouldn’t that be a weird way to break up, without saying anything at all?
But he didn’t walk in front of me. He didn’t walk to the exit.
Robin stood in front of the wall
where our painting, Bal a Bougival, used to be.
His head held the yellow hat and was tilted to the side
looking at me.
Red curly hair. Beard. Intense eyes.
Eyes that knew me, could see inside me.
“Come here, Marie-Clementine,” he said
in such a confident way
that I stood and moved in front of him.
We are art, I thought
Anyone can come into this room and study us.
ROBIN’S VOICE AIMED AT MY HEART
“Remember when you said,” he began.
And I knew what he was going to say
but I looked at him with question marks planted in my eyes
because I wanted him to keep talking
because I didn’t trust my voice to speak
“When you looked at Bal a Bougival, you said
‘That man, he looks like he can hardly bear not—“
My voice joined his and we finished the sentence
“Not to be kissing that woman,” we said together
like we were chanting, like our words were dancing together.
I looked up at him and tried to find the
sleepy eyes, mismatched face, the abandoned lost-puppy-dog boy I fell for.
Instead I saw a different Robin
stronger, sexier, more determined
And I felt myself falling again.
“Dance with me, Marie-Clementine,” Robin whispered and his beard
brushed my cheek.
I reached my left arm up with my fingers fanning behind his neck
just like in the Bal a Bougival
He folded my right hand into his and leaned in close
It was even better than our first dance
when he wore a mask
and stole my heart
Because this time
I knew, really knew, who he was.
And my heart?
I wanted him to have it.
Today's Poetry Friday is being hosted at Picturebook of the Day
In the first book, Sophie talks about falling in love…deep, wonderful, mysterious first-love love with a boy who wears a mask to the costume ball. Over break she discovers he’s the class loser, Murphy. The book ends with a question: what will happen when school starts again?
WHAT MY GIRLFRIEND DOESN’T KNOW picks up at that first day back to school and continues in verse but from Murphy’s (aka Robin’s) point of view. This book also ends on a cliffhanger leaving the reader to wonder, did they break up? For real? Forever? Really?
At the beginning of the year Sones had a contest for readers to continue the story where WHAT MY GIRLFRIEND DOESN’T KNOW ends, but changing back to Sophie’s point of view. I was too old (over 18) to enter and my daughter too young (not yet 13). But I played just for fun.
This is my first fan fiction….
The poems below continue the story in the spirit of the contest. All poems were written by Angela Cerrito.
ROBIN’S HAND
is covering mine
but he isn’t
really
holding it
and his touch
doesn’t electrify
my skin
His hand is
asking my hand
a question
and I don’t know
the answer
HIS WORDS
repeat in my head
“Sometimes I don’t know anything.”
It doesn’t feel like enough.
If seven roses
and seven valentines
and a cartoon
aren’t enough…
…could anything be?
I study his pale fingers
laid across my newly tanned knuckles.
I know I can draw
the connection
but I can’t feel it.
I wish for a shock, a charge
Something.
Because my chest feels
heavy like someone I know
just died.
I say his words
to see if sound
will give them
substance.
“Sometimes I don’t know anything.”
And my words
sound useless
like five stones
flung into a river
Plop! Plop! Plop! Plop! Plop!
I KNOW
Robin’s eyes
are boring
into my head
waiting
for something
Only two days
apart
but so much
Robin doesn’t know
about me
about Grace
about Rachel
about Riley
GRACE
sent a text
before I left town
only two words
miss you
It made my brain tilt
and my guilt swim away
Because breaking Grace and Rachel apart
felt almost as bad
as losing them both
It has been us three
together forever.
RACHEL
turns the heads of every lifeguard
of every guy
and she doesn’t even have to smile.
Walking next to her
I feel
like a chair
or a towel
or a candy wrapper tossed to the ground.
like something
everyone passes
without even noticing
RILEY
said he was only sixteen
But Rachel said he’s way older
and to trust her because she would know.
Riley works at the resort
Riley’s muscles shimmer from working outside
Riley’s green eyes whispered
secrets that made my stomach fall
made me want to run to him
Riley’s eyes were strong,
strong enough
to carry me out to sea
RACHEL SAID
I was crazy
to look twice at Riley
when I was going out with Robin
She was actually worried
“Robin will be furious with me!
He’s already upset that you’re away.”
Rachel NEVER calls Robin Murphy anymore
And she really cares
what he thinks of her
ROBIN MOVED
his hand away
Burned by the coolness
of my hand, frozen stiff underneath his.
My eyes, still not brave enough to meet his.
He cleared his throat
in an awkward, hopeful way
that made my heart break.
I didn’t want to lift my head,
didn’t want to meet his eyes,
didn’t want to say the words,
It’s over.
The words I still have to say to Grace.
GRACE’S SECOND TEXT MESSAGE
beeped on my phone
right when flight attendant demanded
we turn off our cell phones
I opened her message while pretending to click my phone off
G8 ur finished being queen of loserville c u 2nite?
And I knew I’d never be her friend again
Not in a sad way, but in a matter-of-fact way
like when you want to buy something that is out of your price range
or the wrong size
Just because Grace used to be a best friend
doesn’t mean she’d always be a friend, no matter how many times
we had promised it.
And Robin?
He wasn’t my first boyfriend
He wouldn’t be my last boyfriend. It wasn’t like we were going
to get married. Or anything.
Robin slapped his hands down on his knees
and stood up from the bench
slowly, like the old men at the park
when they run out of food for the pigeons
I WATCHED OUT OF THE CORNER OF MY EYE
for him to pass in front of me and walk out of the room
Wouldn’t that be a weird way to break up, without saying anything at all?
But he didn’t walk in front of me. He didn’t walk to the exit.
Robin stood in front of the wall
where our painting, Bal a Bougival, used to be.
His head held the yellow hat and was tilted to the side
looking at me.
Red curly hair. Beard. Intense eyes.
Eyes that knew me, could see inside me.
“Come here, Marie-Clementine,” he said
in such a confident way
that I stood and moved in front of him.
We are art, I thought
Anyone can come into this room and study us.
ROBIN’S VOICE AIMED AT MY HEART
“Remember when you said,” he began.
And I knew what he was going to say
but I looked at him with question marks planted in my eyes
because I wanted him to keep talking
because I didn’t trust my voice to speak
“When you looked at Bal a Bougival, you said
‘That man, he looks like he can hardly bear not—“
My voice joined his and we finished the sentence
“Not to be kissing that woman,” we said together
like we were chanting, like our words were dancing together.
I looked up at him and tried to find the
sleepy eyes, mismatched face, the abandoned lost-puppy-dog boy I fell for.
Instead I saw a different Robin
stronger, sexier, more determined
And I felt myself falling again.
“Dance with me, Marie-Clementine,” Robin whispered and his beard
brushed my cheek.
I reached my left arm up with my fingers fanning behind his neck
just like in the Bal a Bougival
He folded my right hand into his and leaned in close
It was even better than our first dance
when he wore a mask
and stole my heart
Because this time
I knew, really knew, who he was.
And my heart?
I wanted him to have it.
Today's Poetry Friday is being hosted at Picturebook of the Day
Monday, May 4, 2009
Overheard: About candy
Yesterday at a general store I overheard the clerk say to a customer, "Times change and so does the candy."
His comment reminded me of two kinds of candy I don't see anymore and really loved as a kid.
1. Candy cigarettes - no, not only to pretend I was grown up - they were yummy! Sugar sticks, not cancer sticks.
2. Small wax bottles filled with fluid. I don't remember what they were called but each tiny wax bottle held a little bit of colored syrup. After drinking the pretend soda you could chomp on the wax. It was flavorless and got crumbley after awhile, but it was fun while it lasted.
What favorite candies do you remember? Are they still around?
His comment reminded me of two kinds of candy I don't see anymore and really loved as a kid.
1. Candy cigarettes - no, not only to pretend I was grown up - they were yummy! Sugar sticks, not cancer sticks.
2. Small wax bottles filled with fluid. I don't remember what they were called but each tiny wax bottle held a little bit of colored syrup. After drinking the pretend soda you could chomp on the wax. It was flavorless and got crumbley after awhile, but it was fun while it lasted.
What favorite candies do you remember? Are they still around?
Friday, May 1, 2009
Poetry Friday -PAWS,CLAWS, HANDS and FEET
By Kim Hutmacher
Illustrated by Sherry Rogers
.jpg)
© Image used with permission of the publisher
PAWS, CLAWS, HANDS and FEET a new release authored by my fellow marble and critique buddy Kim Hutmacher.
The words are short rhythmic bursts of action. The illustrations follow a brother and a sister as they investigate the wonders of the animal world at night. This poem features animals everywhere from spiders and frogs to lions and elephants. The back pages are full of educational activities for the home or classroom.
If you’re looking for poetry to hold the imagination and capture the attention of young toddlers this book is perfect! It will have them clamping their hands and stomping their feet.
English and Spanish versions are available.
Poetry Friday is hosted by allegro this week.
Illustrated by Sherry Rogers
.jpg)
© Image used with permission of the publisher
PAWS, CLAWS, HANDS and FEET a new release authored by my fellow marble and critique buddy Kim Hutmacher.
The words are short rhythmic bursts of action. The illustrations follow a brother and a sister as they investigate the wonders of the animal world at night. This poem features animals everywhere from spiders and frogs to lions and elephants. The back pages are full of educational activities for the home or classroom.
If you’re looking for poetry to hold the imagination and capture the attention of young toddlers this book is perfect! It will have them clamping their hands and stomping their feet.
English and Spanish versions are available.
Poetry Friday is hosted by allegro this week.
Change the World
Today is "Change the World Day" and to celebrate Chronicle Books has a two for one offering on their popular book CHANGE THE WORLD FOR TEN BUCKS. Use the promotion code "CHANGE" when you order.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Kid Talk: A First Grader Talks About Love
I loved him from the first day of school and he loved me from the second day.
We don’t have to tell each other “I love you” we just know.
I know that he loves me. I can see it in his eyes. When he looks at me his eyes have hearts in them.
Also he chased away a big mean kid on the playground who said I have pee-hair because my hair is dark yellow. He also said, “She does not have pee hair.”
He is only seven and he’s growing a mustache. But I still love him. Because love isn’t about how a person looks, it’s about how nice they are.
We don’t have to tell each other “I love you” we just know.
I know that he loves me. I can see it in his eyes. When he looks at me his eyes have hearts in them.
Also he chased away a big mean kid on the playground who said I have pee-hair because my hair is dark yellow. He also said, “She does not have pee hair.”
He is only seven and he’s growing a mustache. But I still love him. Because love isn’t about how a person looks, it’s about how nice they are.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Autism Red Flag: Language Regression
Concern: A child stops using words that were once a regular part of his / her vocabulary. It is important to seek further evaluation anytime a child stop using words (or “demands”, we are talking about toddlers here!) that were once a part of everyday conversation.
For example a child may have learned to request “milk” or “juice” and then stop saying the words. Instead he/she will only point, grunt, or make sounds instead of words. Or a child might have been regularly saying Mama or Dada and suddenly replace speaking the words with tugging on his/her parents’ hands or legs.
In some cases the decrease in language is accompanied by a transition – a move to a new home, a major change in schedule, the birth of a sibling. Parents may attribute this to a “phase” or to a “language delay.” But loss of words is not part of delayed development.
I urge parents to investigate any unexpected change in development; especially if a child stops using words that were once part of his/her vocabulary. Don’t overlook it as a phase or attribute it to being two or being stubborn or lazy. (I’ve known hundreds of infants and toddlers and have never met a lazy one yet!) Words have power. Toddlers know all about power. Two year olds will typically try a variety of words if the words they use aren’t getting the results they want (drink, more, juice, me drink, drink please). They try different words, increase their volume, and rearrange phrases. Most kiddos will try everything to get what they want.
If your child was once making requests verbally and now mostly tugs on your hand, points, grunts or makes noises (not words) please take him/her to your pediatrician. And at the appointment let them know your concerns about your child’s communication.
Why is early diagnosis important? Because early diagnosis gives parents more time to investigate the best treatment. And early treatment can make a world of difference for an entire family!
What is a Red Flag? Red Flags are indicators that further investigation is necessary. A red flag (or even two or three) are not in and of themselves a diagnosis, just a sign that a professional consult is recommended.
Note: Not every case of language regression is due to autism. But medical consultation is required to determine the cause (and best treatment) for language regression.
For example a child may have learned to request “milk” or “juice” and then stop saying the words. Instead he/she will only point, grunt, or make sounds instead of words. Or a child might have been regularly saying Mama or Dada and suddenly replace speaking the words with tugging on his/her parents’ hands or legs.
In some cases the decrease in language is accompanied by a transition – a move to a new home, a major change in schedule, the birth of a sibling. Parents may attribute this to a “phase” or to a “language delay.” But loss of words is not part of delayed development.
I urge parents to investigate any unexpected change in development; especially if a child stops using words that were once part of his/her vocabulary. Don’t overlook it as a phase or attribute it to being two or being stubborn or lazy. (I’ve known hundreds of infants and toddlers and have never met a lazy one yet!) Words have power. Toddlers know all about power. Two year olds will typically try a variety of words if the words they use aren’t getting the results they want (drink, more, juice, me drink, drink please). They try different words, increase their volume, and rearrange phrases. Most kiddos will try everything to get what they want.
If your child was once making requests verbally and now mostly tugs on your hand, points, grunts or makes noises (not words) please take him/her to your pediatrician. And at the appointment let them know your concerns about your child’s communication.
Why is early diagnosis important? Because early diagnosis gives parents more time to investigate the best treatment. And early treatment can make a world of difference for an entire family!
What is a Red Flag? Red Flags are indicators that further investigation is necessary. A red flag (or even two or three) are not in and of themselves a diagnosis, just a sign that a professional consult is recommended.
Note: Not every case of language regression is due to autism. But medical consultation is required to determine the cause (and best treatment) for language regression.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Friendship defined
© Photo copyright Angela Cerrito
I know some people friend anyone and everyone on FB but I really like to know who is reading my lists and looking at pictures of my kids.
So I send messages to people who friend me if it isn’t obvious how I know them. Most of the time I know them and I just didn’t recognize the name after too many years or the real name after communicating on a listserve.
But there are a few others who send friend requests and respond to my message with something like: I don’t know you but……I’m a health care provider too…we have the same favorite movie ….I am a writer…I’m also friends with so-and-so.
Or my personal favorite: I saw your comment to so-and-so and I think you are wild, let’s be friends.
(Note to self: watch wild comments in cyberspace.
Question to self: do I want to friend someone who somehow finds me wild?)
Usually any reasonable answer gets a friend acceptance.
But last week I got a request and I didn’t recognize the name, had never visited the area the person was from and we have no friends in common. When I wrote my standard question message she wrote back with this explanation.
“Hello, I don’t know you. I sent you a friend request on facebook.”
I know I don’t know her. And I know she sent a friend request. The thing I don’t understand is WHY?
Which got me thinking:
What is your definition of friendship?
Monday, April 20, 2009
Kissing Photo
© Photo copyright Angela CerritoSomeone wrote to ask about my kissing photos and I have to say that the humans have not been very cooperative lately. I have a few close calls…but no real lip on lip action.
The above was taken on a recent trip to the Artis Zoo in Amsterdam. I think it counts!
Friday, April 17, 2009
Call for MG / YA manuscripts
Andrew Karre at Carolrhonda Books put out a call today for MG and YA manuscripts and he wants them small.
No, not short.
No, never slight.
More like the "big things come in small packages" idea.
If you have a powerful MG / YA manuscript without excess then take a look at his blog. An earlier post mentioned that he likes first person voice driven YA. Also take a look at Carolrhonda’s catalogue and other books Karre edited at Flux.
Don’t rush. The call just went out hours ago. Take the time to polish your manuscript –trade with a critique partner.
You’re new? Unagented? Unpublished?
Don’t sweat it this guy is looking for debut authors.
You’re just scared?
Do it anyway! Or I’m going to kick you off my blog!
Most of all … good luck. And don’t forget to report back to me with your success!
No, not short.
No, never slight.
More like the "big things come in small packages" idea.
If you have a powerful MG / YA manuscript without excess then take a look at his blog. An earlier post mentioned that he likes first person voice driven YA. Also take a look at Carolrhonda’s catalogue and other books Karre edited at Flux.
Don’t rush. The call just went out hours ago. Take the time to polish your manuscript –trade with a critique partner.
You’re new? Unagented? Unpublished?
Don’t sweat it this guy is looking for debut authors.
You’re just scared?
Do it anyway! Or I’m going to kick you off my blog!
Most of all … good luck. And don’t forget to report back to me with your success!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Katherine Paterson Prize for YA and children's writing
Hunger Mountain presents the Katherine Paterson Prize for YA and Children's Writing
Calling all YA and children's writers! We are thrilled to present the inaugural Katherine Paterson Prize for YA and Children's Writing in Hunger Mountain.
Hunger Mountain, the arts journal of Vermont College of Fine Arts, will launch our new online arts journal early this summer. Our new site will include YA and Children's Literature; we'll feature articles on hot topics and trends in YA and children's literature, interviews with publishing industry insiders, and fiction selections by well-known and up-and-coming YA and children's authors. Upcoming issues will feature pieces by Katherine Paterson, Carrie Jones, Cynthia Leitich Smith, K.A. Nuzum, Rita Williams-Garcia, Sara Zarr and many others!
Writers of Young Adult Fiction, Middle Grade Fiction, and Picture Books are encouraged to enter the Katherine Paterson Prize for YA and Children's Writing. Newbery Award winning author Katherine Paterson will judge. One winner will receive $1000.00 and publication in Hunger Mountain online, and two honorable mentions will receive $100.00 each.
Entries may include:
Young Adult Fiction (novel excerpt or short story)
Middle Grade Fiction (novel excerpt or short story)
Picture Book (text only)
Submission Fee: $20 per entry
Deadline: Entries must be postmarked by June 30th, 2009
Contest Guidelines:
Your packet should include four items:
A one-page cover sheet that includes:
Your name, address, email and phone number
The title of your manuscript
The category of your manuscript (YA, MG, PB)
A brief (one to two paragraph/200 word) bio of yourself
A brief (one to two paragraph/250 word) synopsis of your manuscript
Your manuscript:
Up to 5,000 words of middle grade/young adult fiction, or one picture book manuscript (text only)
Entries must be double-spaced, with margins of at least 1"
Please number the pages of your entry, and label each page with the title
Please DO NOT label the manuscript with your name (entries will be judged anonymously)
Please paperclip (do not staple) your entry
Entry Fee:
Check or money order for $20, payable to Hunger Mountain
Self-addressed, stamped envelope for notification of award winners
A self-addressed, stamped postcard for us to acknowledge receipt of your entry (optional)
Packets should be mailed to:
Katherine Paterson Prize for YA and Children's Writing
Hunger Mountain
Vermont College of Fine Arts
36 College Street
Montpelier, VT 05602
Tell you friends and colleagues!
Calling all YA and children's writers! We are thrilled to present the inaugural Katherine Paterson Prize for YA and Children's Writing in Hunger Mountain.
Hunger Mountain, the arts journal of Vermont College of Fine Arts, will launch our new online arts journal early this summer. Our new site will include YA and Children's Literature; we'll feature articles on hot topics and trends in YA and children's literature, interviews with publishing industry insiders, and fiction selections by well-known and up-and-coming YA and children's authors. Upcoming issues will feature pieces by Katherine Paterson, Carrie Jones, Cynthia Leitich Smith, K.A. Nuzum, Rita Williams-Garcia, Sara Zarr and many others!
Writers of Young Adult Fiction, Middle Grade Fiction, and Picture Books are encouraged to enter the Katherine Paterson Prize for YA and Children's Writing. Newbery Award winning author Katherine Paterson will judge. One winner will receive $1000.00 and publication in Hunger Mountain online, and two honorable mentions will receive $100.00 each.
Entries may include:
Young Adult Fiction (novel excerpt or short story)
Middle Grade Fiction (novel excerpt or short story)
Picture Book (text only)
Submission Fee: $20 per entry
Deadline: Entries must be postmarked by June 30th, 2009
Contest Guidelines:
Your packet should include four items:
A one-page cover sheet that includes:
Your name, address, email and phone number
The title of your manuscript
The category of your manuscript (YA, MG, PB)
A brief (one to two paragraph/200 word) bio of yourself
A brief (one to two paragraph/250 word) synopsis of your manuscript
Your manuscript:
Up to 5,000 words of middle grade/young adult fiction, or one picture book manuscript (text only)
Entries must be double-spaced, with margins of at least 1"
Please number the pages of your entry, and label each page with the title
Please DO NOT label the manuscript with your name (entries will be judged anonymously)
Please paperclip (do not staple) your entry
Entry Fee:
Check or money order for $20, payable to Hunger Mountain
Self-addressed, stamped envelope for notification of award winners
A self-addressed, stamped postcard for us to acknowledge receipt of your entry (optional)
Packets should be mailed to:
Katherine Paterson Prize for YA and Children's Writing
Hunger Mountain
Vermont College of Fine Arts
36 College Street
Montpelier, VT 05602
Tell you friends and colleagues!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
SCBWI NY
© Photo copyright Angela Cerrito
I was going to write about Bologna when I remembered I haven’t even written about NY yet.
Here are the highlights of my SCBWI NY, in brief:
1. Top of the list has to be meeting my agent in person. It was great to meet Bill, talk about books, families, travel and life. He told how he related a story about his mother to one of his clients and it inspired her to write a picture book. Later I was at a breakout session with an editor and she mentioned the book as one of her favorites.
2. I loved catching up with old friends and hearing all about Emily’s Clarion and student teaching adventures. Stef’s new work. And finding a quiet corner at a party to catch up with Marvin, Karen and Caryn again.
3. I met someone who had the inside scoop about writing one of my favorite TV Shows, THE SHEILD. We don’t actually watch TV, but we buy The Shield on DVD when it comes out each year.
4. I met Laura and got to hear the first pages of her amazing manuscript.
5. Also I conferred with a lot of people about Bologna 2010 and got a few confirmations from agents who will attend and a few tentative from editors / publishers and a really amazing wonderful keynote writer.
6. Two requests for my work came from the NY conference. One for my YA novel that I’m revising. And another for a MG NF project. (They are both almost out the door)
7. This was my first SCBWI conference in my role as the Assistant International Chair and I have to say I was thrilled with the attendance from outside the US and the amazing International RAs who participated and helped put on the event.
Emily introduced me and stef to her friend Paul (shown above) and we got to see lots and lots of butterflies, including baby butterflies taking their first flight!
Friday, April 10, 2009
Poetry Friday: Morning Ritual by Angela Cerrito
Sama insists
her toast be cut
into eight pieces.
Melted butter
poured corner to corner
spread thin
to cover every bit.
Required is the "purple" fork
part of the kitchen playset.
It is actually pink.
Sometimes honey.
Occassionally jam.
Always melted butter
spread from end to end.
Always eight pieces.
Only with the special
"purple" fork.
This poem was inspired by my youngest and based on real life events.(As if you couldn't notice). I'm glad I took the time to record our morning ritual. Now the persnickety-ness of her at age two / three is gone and our mornings are a rush of preparing snacks and packing backpacks before school. Maybe it is time to write a poem about our mornings again!
See Carol's Corner for more of this week's Poetry Friday posts.
her toast be cut
into eight pieces.
Melted butter
poured corner to corner
spread thin
to cover every bit.
Required is the "purple" fork
part of the kitchen playset.
It is actually pink.
Sometimes honey.
Occassionally jam.
Always melted butter
spread from end to end.
Always eight pieces.
Only with the special
"purple" fork.
This poem was inspired by my youngest and based on real life events.(As if you couldn't notice). I'm glad I took the time to record our morning ritual. Now the persnickety-ness of her at age two / three is gone and our mornings are a rush of preparing snacks and packing backpacks before school. Maybe it is time to write a poem about our mornings again!
See Carol's Corner for more of this week's Poetry Friday posts.
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