Keeping History Alive with Food and Traditions

12 July 2022 by Tambra Nicole Kendall

Hello y’all,

As some of you may know, I’ve been busily trying to buy all of the BBC farm series and the companion books that go with them. I think I’m missing two of the series: Tudor Monastery Farm and Secrets of the Castle. It took ages and ages to find Wartime Farm for a price I could afford.

Coffee in a dainty gold floral china cup

In Edwardian Farm Ruth learns to make Cut Rounds from Executive Chef Richard Hunt and they looked wonderful. Cut Rounds are savoury with a sturdier texture than scones, to hold more cream and jam. Searching for recipes I kept finding Cut Round recipes using yeast and the recipes in Edwardian Farm did not use yeast. I finally, FINALLY found a recipe at a fantastic blog, For the Feast. This is new discovery but I will be back to search through Carrie’s recipes. Here’s the link to her Devonshire Cream Scones https://forthefeast.com/devonshire-cream-scones/

If you have family recipes make sure they are written down and put together so you can find them. Copy and share them with your loved ones. Children and grandchildren need the connection of recipes from generations. The stories and traditions should be with the recipes as well as photos if you have them. Family history is just as important as history in the wider scheme of things. Family recipes and traditions are jewels to be treasured. Create an ebook or print book to share with your family. Once family members are gone so is the opportunity to hear their stories and the food that was important to them.

I’ve been looking for recipe books during the Great Depression and World War II. A few years ago, I found Clara Canucciari’s YouTube channel and then purchased her cookbook which has her memories of the Great Depression. You can find her book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005LVOA2M/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

Teddy Bear tea picnic

Here are some of my historical recipe resource books: Dorothy Hartley’s Lost Country Life and Food in England. Dr. Lucy Worsley has a fabulous program called Food in England about her. You can find it on YouTube.

Fabulous Feasts by Madeleine Pelner Cosman https://www.amazon.com/Fabulous-Feasts-Medieval-Cookery-Ceremony/dp/080760898X, Julia Child Mastering the Art of French Cooking Volume 1 and 2. Modern Cookery in All Its Branches by Eliza Acton https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Cookery-All-Its-Branches/dp/1375610406, Mrs. Beeton’s Book of Household Management by Isabella Beeton https://www.amazon.com/Mrs-Beetons-Book-Household-Management/dp/1510760253. The New Butterick Cookbook by Flora Rose, Cornell University, copyright 1924, American Cookery by Amelia Simmons, an American Orphan published in 1796. Carla Emery’s Encyclopedia of Country Living https://www.amazon.com/Encyclopedia-Country-Living-50th-Anniversary-ebook/dp/B07QXG7266/ref=sr_1_1crid=ZVL6M6L6U7RS&keywords=carla+emery&qid=1657658683&s=digital-text&sprefix=Carla+Emery%2Cdigital-text%2C119&sr=1-1

I hope you found this post helpful for preserving the history of your family. My historical books are a great resource for writers and those interested in history.

Blessings to you all, Tambra

The Essentials of Characterization and Plotting Workshop Links

May 28, 2022

Hi y’all,

Here are the social media links that take you to Savvy Authors to sign up for my month long workshop. If you’ve been considering taking my class now is the time.

This is the only one scheduled this year. I hope you’ll join me as we go through the essentials of characterization and plotting. These two areas of writing are vital for the creation of fiction writing.

Details for The Essentials of Characterization and Plotting with Tambra Nicole Kendall

https://savvyauthors.com/community/classes/the-essentials-of-characterization-and-plotting-with-tambra-nicole-kendall.1873/

Level Mixed Basic and Premium Members Prices

Premium Members $30 & Basic Members $40

Register by June 20th and save $5, use code ESSENTIALSKENDALL2022 at checkout! Category

1. Characters
2. Description/Setting
3. Dialogue
4. Structure
5. GMC
6. Plotting
7. Worldbuilding

$5 off Early Registration Coupon-expires 1 week before class starts ESSENTIALSKENDALL2022 Class Length 4 Weeks

This workshop material is for beginning and intermediate writers, but all are welcome!

Having a good foundation in fiction writing skills is vital. Our goal is to keep readers turning the pages and buying more of our books. Join me as we learn and discuss the techniques of characterization and plot and their relationship. Ready to get started? Here are a few of the lesson topics:

• Brainstorming: various ways to brainstorm your ideas
• Backstory, using plot sketches, show, don’t tell
• Creating three-dimensional characters
• World building, and more!

This workshop also includes a mini course on writing hot. Class Format

Savvy Authors’ workshops are held on a forum: a bulletin board based system. You will receive a reminder notice one day prior to the start of the workshop that includes instructions on how to access the workshop forum. If you have not received instructions by the day the workshop begins, please check your spam filter.
The forum will be available the morning (EST) of the day the workshop starts and will remain accessible to all participants thereafter.

I’m thrilled to be able to teach again and share my material with you. My website has testimonials from former students if you’re interested in seeing how the course helped them. Join me and we can learn from each other!

Hugs to all, Tambra Nicole

Photo by Hannah Grace, Unsplash website. Writing motivation.

I’m Teaching a Workshop!

Hi y’all!

Fountain Pen Nib

May 4, 2022

I’m so excited to announce my workshop The Essentials of Characterization and Plotting that will begin at the end of June for Savvy Authors. As soon as I get a link for you to sign up I’ll post it.

THE ESSENTIALS OF CHARACTERIZATIOHN AND PLOTTING

Instructor: Tambra Nicole Kendall

Code: ESSENTIALSKENDALL2022

Characterization, plot, GMC, saggy middle, viewpoint, worldbuilding, tension

Course length: 4 weeks

Date: June 27, 2022 to July 24, 2022

This workshop material is for beginning and intermediate writers, but all are welcome!

Having a good foundation in fiction writing skills is vital. Our goal is to keep readers turning the pages and buying more of our books. Join me as we learn and discuss the techniques of characterization and plot and their relationship. Ready to get started? Here are a few of the lesson topics:

• Brainstorming: various ways to brainstorm your ideas
• Backstory, using plot sketches, show, don’t tell
• Creating three-dimensional characters
• World building, and more!

This workshop also includes a mini course on writing hot.

I hope you’ll join me for this workshop on characterization and plotting plus all the other fun aspects of writing!

Hugs, Tambra

Writing, Research, and Life

New cover for my short erotic romance, Wicked Temptations

April 6, 2022

Hello everyone,

It’s been a little while since I’ve posted. I had breast reduction surgery during the first part of December 2021. My neck doesn’t hurt as much and the strain on my lower back has been reduced, less headaches too. The surgery took 5 hours. The swelling can take up to a year to go down. There are areas that are still swollen. Was it worth it? YES.

At the end of December, I found out I had Covid and bronchitis at the same time. Not an experience I want to repeat. But, I am so grateful and blessed I didn’t have to go to the hospital.

Recently, I’ve joined the professional writing group Sisters in Crime. I’m looking forward to learning from the members and the activities offered. As with any writer, there are topics I love to research. Currently, I’m researching spycraft. Some of the books I’ve purchased: The Official C.I.A. Manual of Trickery and Deception by H. Keith Melton and Robert Wallace. OSS Special Weapons & Equipment Spy Devices of WWII by H. Keith Melton. And Ultimate Spy by H. Keith Melton. If Mr. Melton’s name is familiar you might have watched him on the Netflix show Spycraft.

Other topics of interest to me are the Victorian and Edwardian eras, Celtic mythology, Scottish and English history along with some Welsh and Irish history too. Cooking and hand sewing techniques. The Knights Templar, King Arthur, my family ancestry, aromatherapy and essential oils, herbalism, Ayurveda. Toss in a bit of paranormal stuff. When you write, you gravitate to things that interest you and that inspire your passion and imagination.

I’m a big fan of the Tudor Monastery, Victorian, Edwardian, and Wartime Farm series. I have Tales from the Green Valley, Victorian Pharmacy, and Victorian Farm. As you can tell, I love Ruth Goodman, Alex Langlands, and Peter Ginn. I still need to purchase Tudor Monastery Farm, Edwardian, and Wartime Farms. I have favourite historians (y’all aren’t surprised at this information.): Lucy Worsely, Ronald Hutton, Susannah Lipscomb, Dan Jones, and Neil Oliver.

If you’re looking for a wonderful craft person I’ve been watching Nik the Booksmith and Jennibellie on YouTube for a number of years. Nik and Jennibellie are fun and creative. Bernadette Banner is wonderful! Her skill in working with Vintage clothing is amazing. Amber Burchart’s series A Stitch in Time is interesting and well done. Other YouTubers I subscribe to are Lost in the Pond, Dr. Kat, and Dr. Octavia Cox.

I never know when an idea for a story or character will come so I try to keep my mind open. Ideas for characters and plots are everywhere. Write what you love and be a life-long student learning the craft of writing. I hope you found some useful information in this blog post.

Wishing you much love and happiness, Tambra Nicole

A Season of Reflection and Gratitude

28 November 2021 by Tambra Nicole Kendall

Image of a starry sky by Larisa Koshkina

In the past hubby and I have tried to make it to a Transiberian Orchestra concert during the Christmas holiday. It would have been lovely to attend this year but with Covid not under control, I don’t want to take any unnecessary risks. They put on such a wonderful show. You feel energized and happy when you leave.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHioIlbnS_A

I hope the link works so you can hear the Transiberian Orchestra if you haven’t before. I grateful we’ve had the opportunity to attend their concerts in the past. Ten years ago that wouldn’t have been possible. There are so many blessings. Food, shelter, a nice little town where I can walk Smudge and not worry about my safety.

I have a good team of doctors helping me live life as best I can with the chronic conditions I have. The coming new year will find me focused on getting back into doing Zumba Express and some Bollywood Dance to lose some weight and strengthen my muscles and stamina. There are a number writing projects I’d love to finish and share with you. One of my goals is to figure out how to focus better. Recently, I had someone confirm that my creative energy in art and craft feeds my writing energy. This reminder came at the perfect time.

I’m grateful for the people who read my blog and Smudge’s Doggy Bloggy. We thank you for your comments and for staying with us. The act of being grateful changes your whole focus. Jack Canfield is one of the people I listen to on the topic.

A few days ago, I watched my favourite Christmas movie, White Christmas the song, Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep explains gratitude perfectly and simply. Here are the lyrics if you don’t know them.

Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep

Rosemary Clooney and Bing Crosby

When I’m worried and I can’t sleep
I count my blessings instead of sheep
And I fall asleep counting my blessings
When my bankroll is getting small
I think of when I had none at all
And I fall asleep counting my blessings. I think about a nursery and I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them as they slumber in their beds
If you’re worried and you can’t sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you’ll fall asleep counting your blessingsI think about a nursery and I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them as they slumber in their beds
If you’re worried and you can’t sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you’ll fall asleep counting your blessings

Source: LyricFindSongwriters: Irving BerlinCount Your Blessings Instead of Sheep lyrics © Concord Music Publishing LLC

Vintage illustration of a Westie and Scottie dog wearing red bows and looking through a window

My wish is for all of you to have the happiest holiday season with your loved ones. Until we meet here again, take care of yourselves and each other.

Tambra

NaNoWriMo According to Smudge MacRuff and a Printable Word Count Calendar

10 October 2021

Hi y’all,

Here’s no frills NaNoWriMo calendar. After you print it out you can add stickers or washi tape. 🙂 I think there’s enough space for you to write your word count beneath the word count number to keep you on track. I hope you find inspiration from the forums, meeting writers from all over the world, and being inspired to write the story of your heart. NaNo is supposed to be fun, not a drudge. Should you persevere at the end you’ll have a draft of a manuscript, a big portion of editing, forward progress on whatever you’re writing.

NaNo is all about getting the story down. Editing comes later.

Smudge Alpin MacRuff wants to help writers with NaNo so here’s his POV on what happens when you undertake the month of November’s literary abandon.

Think about what you want to write. Be sure you like it enough to write on the story everyday.

After you join NaNoWriMo get some writing friends to join you. Friends always make everything more fun!

Stay focused. Don’t quit! Quick, word sprints!

Why aren’t you cooperating story? I give you the evil eye. I do not like you anymore.

You see these shreds manuscript…that’s what will happen to you if you mess with me again.

Swift kick in the writing pants. I can do this because I’m the Boss!

You did it! Do something nice for yourself. All that hard work was worth it.

nanowrimo-2021-word-count-calendarDownload

All the best writing vibes and positive thoughts to everyone! Love, Tambra and Smudge

Preptober for NaNoWriMo

24 September 2021

Old books on a shelf

Hi y’all,

I know this is a wee bit early before October but I wanted to go ahead and share some resources to help you prepare for National Novel Writing Month (November). If you have problems finishing a manuscript NaNoWriMo might help you finish. It teaches you how to muffle/choke your inner editor. Bribery works for my inner editor.

What if you aren’t writing fiction and still want to participate in this frenzied event? You can be a NaNo Rebel. A NaNo Rebel is a NaNoWriMo participant who chooses to write something besides a novel of at least 50,000 words in November. Some rebels choose to revise and edit their novels, while others wander into the worlds of nonfiction, video games, scripts, and academic writing.

Back to the topic of novel writing. It’s easy for a nonwriter or someone who only writes short stories to say, “writing a novel can’t be that hard.” It can be. Many people wistfully say they want to write a novel one day. I’ll bet they started to really think about it, then broke out into an icy sweat while slowly backing away from that idea.

Writing a novel can be a daunting task. I’ve found that breaking such a large project into smaller pieces makes the process less overwhelming and easier to organize. I write my stories in Word but keep them organized in Scrivener.

To have an idea of where I’m going, I write out what I know about the major plot points and/or the pinch points in my story. This is a good start but I also need a way to keep myself on track without interfering my flow of creativity. Using the Hero’s Journey and the 3-Act Structure, along with the plot points I’ve written out give me a road map to follow. BUT, this method also gives me the room I need if I come up with ideas that are better than my initial effort. A Google search brings up lots of resources to help you prepare for NaNo.

Reedsy has an article that explains the Three Act Structure if you’re unfamiliar with this story structure. https://blog.reedsy.com/guide/story-structure/three-act-structure/

Here’s a link for the Hero’s Journey if you’d like to know more. https://blog.reedsy.com/guide/story-structure/heros-journey/

Author, Eva Deverell has plethora of writing worksheets to help get your Preptober off to a great start! https://www.eadeverell.com/preptober-schedule/

The NaNo website has helpful information, too. https://nanowrimo.org/nano-prep-101

Here’s the word count breakdown to reach the 50,000 word goal: 1,667 words per day or 7 pages. If you can’t sit down and write that number of pages in a single sitting you can write 556 words in three sessions which will keep you at the daily goal.

Do you have a child or teen who’s a writer? NaNoWriMo has a Young Writer’s Program.

I hope the links provide a good starting place for your novel preparation. If you’ve always wanted to write a novel, don’t put it off. Take the plunge! Don’t worry if you don’t reach the 200 pages goal what’s important is that you learned more about writing, yourself, and maybe made some new writing friends.

Keep writing and creating!

Tambra

P.S. Don’t forget my Essentials of Characterization and Plotting workshop starts October 6. Here’s the link to register! https://www.heartsthroughhistory.com/event/the-essentials-of-characterization-and-plotting/

Recycled Lay’s Plastic Chip Container

July 1, 2021 by Tambra Nicole Kendall

Hi everyone,

I wanted to share with you my latest recycle. I’m sure you’ll find a number of uses for this project. I hate throwing away the plastic Lay’s chip container. Here are some of the things I used them for: watercolour brushes, silverware/plastic ware for camping or picnics, crayons, markers.

Today, I used some decorative tape (with paw prints) around the body. It will be added to Smudge’s tote bag to hold an extra leash, a roll of doggy poop bags and leaving enough room for a baggie with some treats and a small squeaky toy. I’m positive cat lovers would find a use for this idea.

Recycled plastic Lay’s chip container

I hope y’all are doing well and that this quick idea will help you. Camp NaNoWriMo starts today, so I’m off to see what I can get on the page. If you happen to participate in the literary activity you can find me as Tambra Nicole.

Hugs to all! Tambra

Papermaking!

23 April 2021 by Tambra Nicole Kendall

I’ve always loved the originality of homemade paper. The cost sometimes can be an issue. With my quest recycle and upcycle I looked into making my own paper for small journals and to paint on. I ordered this frame https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08PDWTBQF and this book https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N9LSZ6G

Easy Papermaking book

I have a VitaMix and there is no way I’m going to use it to make my paper, so I went to Walmart and bought a 56 ounce blender for $20. By creating my own paper from junk mail I can also add things like flowers, flower petals, glitter to my pulpy mess. I haven’t made anything yet since I just purchased the blender.

I think a hand crafted journal is going to be a great contest prize. The winner can use it for themselves or give it as gift. Maybe sewing isn’t something your interested in, but this might be something for you to explore. This could be a project you can do with your kids. There are lots of video’s on book binding. I love Nik the Booksmith, Sea Lemon and Jenniebellie’s video’s on book binding methods.

homemade paper

Homemade papermaking will work for all the areas of writing I do. As with most creatives when I sew, paint, or do crafting it helps stimulate my imagination and writing.
In a previous post I had mentioned holding a contest for my blog subscribers. I signed up for Rafflecopter, so you’ll be seeing a contest in the near future.

I’d love to hear if you’ve done this before or if this post nudged you to try this technique. Here’s a link to the process of homemade papermaking:: https://www.sensiblehomeschool.com/how-to-make-homemade-paper-a-tutorial-with-pictures/

Stay well and safe! Happy Crafting!

Tambra Nicole

Tambra’s Refashioning and Upcycling Resources

17 April 2021

tape measure, thread and material

By Tambra Nicole Kendall

Hello friends!

I wanted to share my favourite sewing and refashioning resources with you. One the things I’ve missed most during the pandemic is the chance to go and poke around in my local thrift stores. Recycling and upcycling items help my creativity while giving something a brand new life. To some people this sort of activity isn’t fun, but for me it’s exciting. So, if any of you are contemplating the joys of refashioning and upcycling come along with me.

I understand not everyone is excited about sewing, refashioning, and thrifting. If you know someone who is please pass the link to this post to them and share the love.

There is a difference between recycling and upcycling. RECYCLING is the destruction of waste and making something new. Example: Automobile windshield glass made into drinking glasses.

UPCYCLING it taking an item and creating something new from it in the current state it is in. Upcycling is creative and reduces the need for recycling. Example: My purse made from a pair of old blue jeans. I get lots of complements on this purse and I love it. Pinterest has lots of ideas for upcycling denim as well as other sewing projects.

Jillian of ReFashionista.net is the one person I credit with giving me the courage to even attempt refashioning. She gives clear directions and warns you of possible pitfalls along the way. I love her sweet, bright personality that’s bursting with creativity. I hope you’ll stop by and take a look at all her wonderful creations. https://refashionista.net/refashions/dress-refashions/

After the ReFashionista got me enthralled with refashioning I found other ladies who are of the same mindset. I came across Beth of The Renegade Seamstress creates amazing refashions like Jillian. Beth has wonderful videos that show you step-by-step how to create a variety of projects for yourself, your family, and your home. If you’re looking for a book with a great variety of refashioning projects check out Beth’s book. I’ve already chosen the first project to make out of my copy. You can find the Renegade Seamstress here: https://therenegadeseamstress.com/

I wanted to add So Sew Easy is another fab resource. These ladies have a nice variety of projects and at various difficulty levels for wherever you are in your sewing journey. https://so-sew-easy.com/

On YouTube there are a number of women I watch and learn from. Coolirpa https://www.youtube.com/user/coolirpa, With Wendy https://www.youtube.com/user/withwendy, Annika Victoria https://www.youtube.com/user/AnnikaVictoria24..

Some of you know I love vintage clothing and I’ve found some amazing designer/seamstresses. Bernadette Banner has absolutely gorgeous Victorian/Edwardian period clothing. I think if I ever met her we would be friends. She made an Inverness coat and a Lady Sherlock outfit, an 1890s ballgown. If your interested in this era of fashion, please visit Bernadette’s YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSHtaUm-FjUps090 S7crO4Q/videos

For 1920s era on up, Evelyn Wood is fantastic. I believe she has course on Teachable, too. I just love her personality and the way she explains how and why she makes the decisions she does in her refashions or whatever garment she’s creating. I love learning about vintage sewing skills. You can find Evelyn here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ59owAiWL2IgaANbG-jm0Q

For dress eye candy on Instagram I always look at Molly Nguyen Designs. Her exquisite ballgowns and wedding dresses with floof and sparkle make me so happy.

If you’ve always wanted to try sewing or upcycling I hope I’ve given you enough places to encourage you to step in and give this a try. Or, if you have some basic sewing skills you’ll find plenty of places here to inspire you.

Take care until we meet here again! Tambra Nicole

Books to Add to Your Reading Pile

April 7, 2021 Tambra Nicole Kendall

Hello everyone,

I hope all of you are healthy and doing well. I’m on the waiting list to get my Covid vaccination. Hope it’s soon.

I wanted to let y’all know of some new book and upcoming releases.

Photo by Ichad Windhiagiri on Pexels.com

Tambra’s Author Suggestions

Judythe Morgan

Fitzpatrick Family Series: Eight Preacher Kids Each with a Sweet Love Story of their own.

Sarah & Nick

Sarah Fitzpatrick, pianist extraordinaire, gave up on true love when her high school boyfriend, Nick Stephens, ran off to marry his pregnant ex-girlfriend.

Nick’s daughter shows up in her music class eleven years later. One look at the man, and old dreams come back to life. She must find a way to keep the little girl and Nick out of her heart. She won’t risk losing everything again.

Nick Stephens has other plans. Sarah is, and always has been, the love of his life and he’s back in Burton, TX to prove it. But there are secrets Nick must keep, from Sarah and his daughter. Secrets that could destroy everything he hopes to build. Can their second chance survive new secrets?

Here are the buy links.

Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08W9MP12F

Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736553909

Nook:   https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/when-love-endures-judythe-morgan/1138790688

Stefanie London has some wonderful books for you to choose from and some recent titles to be released soon. Here’s her website: https://stefanie-london.com/

Kadee McDonald has another sweet PAWS romance out! You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08VVPGM7D?fbclid=IwAR3owV_TCkmiIiI92NUNXLXBkGC6HXjvmT82YqJWp2BpB8IlsTi2PF6_0HE

Healing Two Hearts book cover

I hope you find some new authors to try. If you have friends that might be interested in these stories please pass on the information!

I’m working on a few projects (still!) but am doing my best to have something out this summer.

Hugs to all!

Tambra Nicole

Basics of Writing a Short Story

Basic of Writing a Short Story

January 25, 2021 by Tambra Nicole Kendall

Quill pen, ink well, books, and paper

When I began writing I started out with articles and studying children’s literature. Gaining a bit of confidence, I submitted one of my articles to a local writing group’s contest. It was the first time I’d entered my writing in a contest before and I was nervous.

I won third place!  One of judges contacted me about publishing my article in his magazine. He was active in Toastmasters International and he had a dynamic presence. A few years later I joined Toastmasters International and it gave me the confidence to speak to an audience about writing and teaching. What does this have to do with writing short stories, you’re asking. Well, writing a speech uses the same skills. You need to be focused, making every word count, have a beginning, middle and end, leading to a satisfying conclusion.

On my bookshelves I have several writing craft books by Jack M. Bickham, a former Creative Writing Professor at the University of Oklahoma. Mr. Bickham was a protégé of the late Dwight Swain.

 Much of the information in Bickhams books still apply today. Years ago, I had the honour of meeting him. He was a gracious and gentle man. If there had been a way for me to take his university courses I would have jumped at the chance. Jack Bickham wrote over eighty novels, and three books for Writer’s Digest Books. Mr. Bickham also wrote The Apple Dumpling Gang which was made into a movie in the 1970s-early 1980s, I think.

Study the masters of short story writing. What story situations do they tackle? How do they create characters you relate to?

Here’s what I’ve learned writing short stories and information from Mr. Bickham. I hope this will give you a place to start. Learning to write short can be a fun challenge.

Tambra’s Short Story Tips

Write out what you know about the characters and the story you want to tell. Go through it and edit out the parts that don’t push the story forward. In short stories you usually find two to three characters because you don’t have the room for more.

Remember this is a short story.  Traditional short story word lengths run from 1,500 (six pages) to 5,000 words (roughly 20 double spaced pages.)

Six pages is going to call for some concentrated, concise writing. Twenty pages still means you need a narrow focus and must making every word count. Some people find writing short easier than writing long. This will take some practice but don’t forget to have fun. I believe writing should be fun and exciting.

When writing a novel, you have the luxury of delving deeper into the GMC (goal, motivation, and conflict) of your main characters and villain, a complex plot with room for a bit of backstory. Flashbacks and backstory slow the pace of your story which is why they must be trickled in. If you’re unfamiliar with GMC I highly recommend Debra Dixon’s book, GMC. I can’t tell you how much it helped me. From her I learned to love plotting.

Drop your character into trouble as soon as you can. But make sure the situation can be resolved in a satisfying manner in allotted number of pages you have available. Rushing the ending will make the reader feel cheated and dissatisfied.

Remember you don’t have time for long passages of backstory so a few sentences to let the reader know. Example: Gina and Dee Dee met at college and Gina invites Dee Dee over for supper and a study session.

Gina opened the door holding her new puppy. “Come on in!”

Dee Dee white knuckle gripped her tote bag and licked her lips. “Can’t. Dog.” Her brain and body were frozen.

Gina frowned and walked back. “A bad experience with dogs?”

Dee Dee nodded.

“She’s asleep. Can you hear her snoring?”

Dee Dee stepped inside and closed the door. “A neighbor’s Chow Chow jumped the fence and bit me.I was three years old. I’ve been scared of dogs no matter the size since then.” She swallowed. “I have wanted to pet a puppy. It would nice to at least be able to do that.”

Gina sat on the sofa and Dee Dee followed. “If you want you try softly petting her with your index finger on her head.”

 Slowly Dee Dee reached out and stroked the Westie’s head. Her fur was so soft! The knots in her chest and stomach loosened making it easier to breathe. She did it. She actually pet a dog.

     In the example I didn’t do a long flashback on Dee Dee’s situation that led to her getting bit. The readers need to care about the characters. Everyone has been scared, so we understand how hard this must have been for Dee Dee.

     Your plot will probably be on specific event that can be handled within the limits of the genre. Give just enough information about the setting so the reader isn’t confused.

    The other elements of fiction writing apply. Adding in the senses, enough description so the reader is transported and can visualize it. Check the flow and pace of your story.

Every word, every sentence counts. Readers emotions, their hearts, must be pulled in and engaged in the story you are telling. Writing short will serve you well if you write longer pieces of fiction. Writing short it forces you to write tighter and more concise. You’ll find yourself getting to the heart of a scene much quicker.

I’ve never regretted started out writing short pieces of fiction and nonfiction.

I hope this post helps you understand the basics of writing short stories. It’s really fun! I hope you give it a try. You might like it.

Hugs to all, Tambra Nicole

Books, pen, pencil, and eraser

My Gift to You

December 23, 2020

Holiday Greetings to one and all!

I’ve been trying to figure out which of my books to offer as a gift to everyone. I don’t offer my books for free very often so if you’ve wanted a copy of my cookbook now’s the time. From December 24th to the 28th you will have the opportunity to download a digital copy of The Scottish-English Texan: 56 Teatime Recipes. So far, the response has been very positive and I’m grateful for all the 4 and 5 star reviews.

My cookbook has a few original recipes included with classic tea time favourites. Included are US and British equivalents for measurements, oven temperature conversion chart, and cooking terms for US and British. Included is a section on Spirited Beverages. There’s a difference between whiskey and whisky (and not just the spelling). There is also a bartender chart for standard and metric measurements for common and uncommon alcohol quantities. We can’t forget the children! There’s a section on cambric tea with cookies and sandwiches to delight kids of all ages.

Click on the title below the book cover to pick up your copy of the book, Thursday the 24th! https://www.amazon.com/Scottish-English-Texan-Teatime-Recipes-Heritage-ebook/dp/B00B76Y7SW

Hugs and blessings, my friends. I hope you find some recipes that will become family favourites.

Happy Holidays!

Tambra Nicole

The Story Magic of Creating Characters

November 27, 2020 by Tambra Nicole Kendall

Open book with magic sparkles coming out of the pages

Writing is an intense, personal experience. To create characters we draw on people we know or have known in the past, relatives, experiences from our youth and those more recent.

Sometimes I deliberately choose a mannerism or attitude from someone in my past in character creation. Other times, the process is subtle. People watching (before COVID) was interesting and fun. I’d listen to the conversation and take notes on how the people acted with each other physically, verbally, and non verbally. All is fodder for characterization and a major component of making story magic. Once a character begins to come alive it sparkles with energy! In your mind’s eye they are becoming more than a cardboard character on the page.

If you’re starting out on your writing journey, please understand that you can’t create a character that is exactly like someone you know. Hard feelings and more trouble than you’d care to have is the result. Instead, you create a character that is a blend of good and not-so-good traits. No one is perfect and readers can’t relate to perfection. Some notable characters that are easily recognised are Sherlock Holmes, Poirot, the Mad Scientist, the lone cowboy/drifter.

As a writer we can use these characters but put our own spin on them. If we don’t write what we love it will appear within the pages of our stories. The reader is cheated and as the creator, we are also cheating ourselves. Explore other genres and study the characters within the pages. What is it about them that catches your attention?

Three dimensional characters touch our hearts. The Harry Potter series, The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy, and Louise Rennison’s The Confessions of Georgia Nicholson are just a few characters who’ve taken teens (and adults) on adventures reaching beloved status through the years.

I’m always striving to hone my skills as a writer. I want to give the reader the best story I can. I want my story magic to shine. Years from now, I want readers to say, “I loved Tambra’s characters. I reread her books because it’s like visiting old friends.”

Let me know if you would be interested in a short series on writing topics such as characterization, plotting, or world building.

Hugs, love and blessings! Tambra Nicole

More NaNoWriMo Tips!

Do you have your word count calendar ready? No? Here’s a basic one for you. If you check the NaNo forums people have created some really great calendars. If you can create your own that’s awesome! As you can tell, I love this writing event and look forward to it every year. The writing energy from it is amazing.

Here are some suggestions to get you started:

Fill out character sheets on your main characters and the villain(s)/antagonist. The more you know them, the easier it will be when you’re plotting.

Write down what you know of the story.. Write off to the side and highlight or use various colours of pens to and figure out where it belongs such as the Inciting Incident, plot point 1, midpoint. On another page write start writing out the plotting system you use and fill in the information from the story synopsis. Once the plot page is completed you’ll be able to tell at a glance where your story is going and what elements your missing. This is roadmap. A story draft get the idea down with the characters, some brilliant gems will be there with the excitement and passion for this creation.

After you’ve gotten the draft down then put your thoughts into the editing process. NaNo isn’t the time for being nitpicky over every sentence. I use a ** in a colour that stands out to indicate I need to add something in a NaNo manuscript. Example: Heroine does blah blah blah ** this spot needs more research on medicinal herbs for burns; besides the obvious aloe vera**

I hope this short blog post helps you with NaNo. Go forth and slay the editor that sits on your shoulder (at least for November!).

Have fun with NaNoWriMo make new writing friends!

Hugs to all, Tambra Nicole

Two Halloween Parties for Book Lovers

Tambra Nicole Kendall

11 October 2020

Hi y’all,

A short blog post to let you know I’ll be participating in two Halloween Parties on Facebook. The first event is one I’m hosting on the 24th. The second party is for the Gothic Romance Writers Chapter I’m president of. There will be prizes and the opportunity to meet and find new authors to read.

The prizes I’ll be offering: ebook of my cookbook, The Scottish-English Texan: 56 Teatime Recipes and the ebook, Wicked Temptations, a spicy, paranormal romance with magic and faeries. Don’t forget to mark your calendar!

I hope you can make it to these parties. I would love to chat with you!

Be kind to each other, take care and be safe!

Tambra Nicole xo

Get Out Those Kitchen Gadgets

September 17, 2020 Tambra Nicole Kendall

Do you have a Babycakes machine but don’t use it much? I have the one with the interchangeable plates. I like that it doesn’t heat up my kitchen like the oven does. I’m in Texas and the temps are still in the 80s. But you can also make small batches and that’s nice, too.

You can make more than cake pops in them. Why not try a batch of hush puppies? Or Pizza Bites? I forgot where I got this recipe or else I would attribute it to the person. These would be great for a family movie night or game night (like Monopoly or Scrabble).

Cake Pops with sprinkles

Babycakes Pizza Poppers

2 cups Bisquick
2 tsp Italian Seasoning
2 eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 c Mozzarella cheese, grated
1/2 cup Pepperoni, finely chopped
1/2 cup Cooked Sausage, finely chopped
Pizza Sauce, warmed

In a large mixing bowl, combine dry ingredients.  In a small bowl combine liquid ingredients and add to the dry ingredients.  Fold in cheese, pepperoni and sausage.  The batter should be a thick pancake batter consistency, if it get too thick, stir in more milk until it reaches desired thickness. 

I put the batter into a gallon plastic bag and cut off a corner (remember
there are chunks of meat so the opening will need to accommodate)
 to easily fill the wells.  Cook for 4 minutes. ***A note from Tambra: You might have to cook a little longer than the recipe calls. I always make a test batch of a couple and adjust as necessary.

Pinterest has lots of Babycakes recipes sweet and savoury. Better Homes and Gardens has a Stocky Pecan Upside Down Babycakes recipe. You can find it here: https://www.bhg.com/recipe/cupcakes/sticky-pecan-upside-down-baby-cakes/

With Autumn arriving for some folks here’s a recipe that sounds perfect for the holidays: Apple Butter filled Apple Cider Cupcakes. Take a look here: http://www.pluggedintocooking.com/2011/10/apple-butter-filled-apple-cider-cupcakes/

This Ham and Cheese Puffs recipe looks good. http://www.partyfood2go.com/2011/06/babycakes-ham-and-cheese-puffs.html

I haven’t used my Babycakes maker much but with the weather cooling down a bit I plan to use it more and for making Smudge some homemade dog treats while I have it out. Have any of you made your homemade dog treats in the you Babycakes treat maker? I have the Dog Treat maker and it occurred to me that it was a Babycakes for dogs, so why not use my machine to make Smudgie pupcakes?

If you have one of these treat makers and aren’t sure how to use it, I found a blog post that might help you and don’t forget to search YouTube. https://www.lovefromtheoven.com/cakepops-with-the-babycakes-cake-pop-maker-and-a-babycakes-cakepop-maker-giveaway/

China cup, gold spoon and a pink rose

Now, let’s talk Air Fryers. When I bought mine I wasn’t sure if I would like it or if I would use it much. Whenever my Air Fryer goes where dead appliances go, I will get another one. Stephanie Manley of CopyKat Recipes has a huge variety of recipes (not just Air Fryer). Stephanie can be found here: https://copykat.com/category/type/air-fryer-recipes/. The Blue Jean Chef has some great Air Fryer recipes and tips. You can find her here: https://bluejeanchef.com/reces/cooking-method/air-fryer/

Mini frosted donuts

These appliances are a blessing to a person who has health issues. I have two Instant Pots, the 6 quart and a mini 3 quart. I use them so much I have them sitting on my kitchen counter. Getting an Instant Pot for Christmas was the best present I could have asked for! I make pork loin that falls apart it is so tender. Recently, I made turkey tenderloins and they came out wonderful. Pinto beans come out great, too.

The learning curve on these kitchen helpers isn’t steep. A little experimenting and using a notebook to write down your adjustments is all you need.

I hope this post has given you some ideas on how you can get more use out of these kitchen gadgets sitting on the shelf. Have a tea party or a picnic to celebrate…anything you want.

Teddy Bears Picnic

Hugs to all, stay safe, and be kind.

Tambra Nicole

Get Ready! National Novel Writing Month is Coming!

September 13, 2020 by Tambra Nicole Kendall

A minute into November 1 me and thousands of crazy writers across the world will begin NaNoWriMo – National Novel Writing Month. The goal is to write a rough draft of a book 50,000 which = 200 pages. It’s free to sign up and there are forums on lots of topics and friendly people ready to help and answer questions. I am one of those people who waits until one minute past midnight into November 1 to begin National Novel Writing Month.

For me it’s been a wonderful and freeing experience. Have you always wanted to write a book? No better time to begin than November 1.

There are blogs and YouTube videos dedicated to this topic. October is also known in the writing community (at least by some of us) as Preptober. Getting an outlines or notes down in preparation for November 1.

If you have a child interested in creative writing, NaNo has a program for them, and teachers who would like to do this with their students. https://ywp.nanowrimo.org/

So many people say they want to write a book. Why not take that first step and do it. The first draft is always crappy, that’s why we edit. The draft gets the story down, the journey of the characters. NaNoWriMo pushes you to write and ignore your inner editor and write. NaNo helped me finish my first 200 page novel.

Pissed about 2020? Put it in a story. Mystery, thriller, science fiction, romantic suspense whatever genre you write in or want to write pour your emotions onto the page.

Now is the perfect time to write a book. Don’t wait for someday. Be brave and join the millions of us who help others see the beauty and wonder of the worlds within the pages of our books. We’re waiting for you. Take my hand…we’ll go together.

Tambra Nicole

Word Count Chart for NaNoWriMo

An Excellent Course

My sweet friend, Rae blogged about my upcoming workshop. Thank you, Rae!

powerfulwomenreaders

Always wanted to be a writer? Here’s a course that will help.

The Essentials of Characterization and Plotting Instructor: Tambra Nicole Kendall Registration Deadline:October 10, 2021 Start Date:October 6, 2021 End Date:November 1, 2021Class Fee in USD:$15 for HHRW members / $25 for non-membersGoogleiCalendarREGISTER NOW

In this course, we will discuss how to plot, what keeps it moving, and how storytellers drag readers into a fictional world and keep them there. We’ll learn point of view, story structure, pacing, world building, how to connect the beginning, middle and end, and more.

Tamara is a friend and a very capable teacher who has written since forever. She has mastered the skills of engaging writing, which is evident on every page of her books. I highly recommend this author and her course.

Thanks, Evin

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My October Workshop

September 10, 2021

Hi everyone,

cartoon cat writing at a desk.

I hope y’all are doing well!

I wanted to let you know I’ll be teaching my Essentials of Characterization and Plotting workshop. It begins October 6, 2021 and ends November 1, 2021. The cost for Hearts Through History members is $15, non-members $25. This is the only time this year I’ll be teaching it.

The length of the course is four weeks. I post lessons every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. If you’d like to read testimonials from people who’ve taken the course you can find it on my website: https://tambrakendall.com

Here’s a list of the lessons. I’ve tried to organise the material so the lessons build on each other making the material as cohesive as possible.

• Lesson One: Brainstorming
• Lesson Two: Backstory, Plot Sketches, Show, Don’t Tell and Effective Description
• Lesson Three: Character is Action, Plot is Action
• Lesson Four: GMC – Goal, Motivation and Conflict Goal, Urgency, Motivation
• Lesson Five: Writing Strong Characters and Viewpoint, Deep Point of View, Stimulus and Response
• Lesson Six: Sagging Middles
• Lesson Seven: Scene and Sequel Structure
• Lesson Eight: Plotting Methods
• Lesson Nine: Creating Dimensional Characters
• Lesson Ten: Adding Tension and Danger
• Lesson Eleven: Writing Sexual Tension
• Lesson Twelve: Basic Worldbuilding

As you can see, most of the lessons can be applied to other genres of fiction besides romance. I hope to see you in October!

Here’s the link to register for the workshop: https://www.heartsthroughhistory.com/event/the-essentials-of-characterization-and-plotting/

If you’re at my website, please consider signing up for my newsletter. In exchange for signing up, I offer a mini-journal. The schedule is approximately every quarter, unless something special is occurring. I’m passionate about using essential oils/natural healing, recycling/upcycling, Celtic mythology, the Templars and Arthurian history.

Have a great weekend!

Tambra