February 4th, 2010 | by KateDouglas |
What a week! I’ve been scrambling to get Wolf Tales 11 done by my February 15 deadline (and no, I’ve already accepted the fact–and thankfully, so has my editor–that it’s not going to happen) while dealing with all the promotion for DemonFire, my first mass market release that’s coming out on February 23, and I realized this morning what the hold up is on WT11–my brain is stuck in the DemonSlayers world while trying to write about the Chanku! (Trust me, that does not work well.)
I’ve been spending tons of time going over notes–for the life of me I could NOT remember what color wolf Logan Pierce becomes (black) or who was taller–Mik or AJ. And it’s Mik at 6′5″ as AJ’s just 6′4″, and normally I can recall details like that because I KNOW these guys, but for the past couple of weeks I’ve been working on promo for DemonFire and thinking about my six foot, eight inch Lemurian warrior Alton, and Dax, my fallen demon who has so much going against him in his fight to save the world from demonkind that it’s a miracle–and Eddy’s love–that he was still around for me to write him into HellFire. (okay, Kate…take a DEEP breath…)
Needless to say, I am not my usual calm, collected self! 
Anyway, when I get totally frustrated and to the point where I can’t get my thoughts together, I do something that takes me away from writing. Today I baked cookies and cleaned my office. The cookies are wonderful–double chocolate chip/chocolate cookies with pecans. Horrible for the waist but wonderful for the psyche–AND I cleaned my office, and you, my friends, or at least one of you, will benefit from my little writer breakdown, because deep in the piles stacked around the room I found an ARC of DemonFire I didn’t know I had, and one of you who leaves a post, even if it’s just to tell me I’m a ditz for losing it, will have a chance to win.
So there ya have it–a scary glimpse into the mind of a woman who can’t figure out which world to play in, but it’s all good, eventually! And while I worry about finishing the book, at least I’ve got yummy cookies to eat and an ARC of a really great story (if I do say so myself!) to give away. And just to get the ball rolling, what do you do when it all seems too much and you’re spinning your wheels? Maybe I can learn something new to help me deal with…well, sexy Chanku and really hot Lemurian warriors and this fallen demon who is just flat out gorgeous. Hey, it’s a tough job, but somebody’s got to do it!
I’ll pick a winner in a couple of days, so be sure and check back. 
I try my best to schedule my days but I always seem to get off track. Then I say o.k. What do I absolutely have to get done today. That usually helps me at least. The cookies sound yummy. I had chocolate chip cookies yesterday before I knew it I had eaten 4. There goes the diet. Best of Luck finishing Wolf Tales 11
by Jennifer Cochran · February 4th, 2010 at 5:52 amThanks, Jennifer! I don’t actually schedule–I just know when I get up every morning that I’m going to spend the day writing, but some days definitely go better than others, and some books practically write themselves, while others are a lot more work. This one is coming along, but it keeps going where I haven’t planned on…as if that ever mattered!
by KateDouglas · February 4th, 2010 at 6:02 amHey Kate!
Thanks for the heads up on this blog post. Interesting topic. I’ve had something similar happen. I had a Shakespeare Exam to Study for, and for the life of me, I couldn’t get anything to stick in my head because I had a character kicking inside my brain trying to get me to pay attention to him.
Well, I tried to ignore him, but that didn’t work. It would have been more effective in the first place if I would have spent time writing the story first and then studying. Instead, I wasted hours trying to study before I gave in to the inevitable and just wrote enough of the story to appease the character. After that, I was free and clear and able to study, only not enough time to study everything I needed to. I passed the course, so it worked out okay in the end. I just wish I would have paid attention to the character sooner rather than later.
So, I suggest you listen to your Demonfire characters because it will unblock you to continue on with WT11.
Hope this helps!
P.S. – I’d love an ARC to review on Moonlight, Lace and Mayhem! And to interview you when you aren’t so busy!
by Carrie (from Wisconsin) Hinkel-Gill · February 4th, 2010 at 6:14 amRather than wearing yourself out to a frazzled state, sometimes you have to stop, take a break and re-energize so you can come back to the task on hand and charge ahead full stream. I like to relax with some reading or play on the computer.
Kate could you share your recipe for double chocolate chip/chocolate cookies with pecans? They sound really yummy.
by Sue A. · February 4th, 2010 at 7:40 amWell, Kate, if those demon characters keep shouting at you the loudest, it probably means you need to pay attention! Just get their stories straight, and then it’ll be time for more Chanku. What I find that sometimes helps is to focus on something mindless for a little while, something like computer games, or crafting, playing music or something like that. I find it frees the back of my brain to work out a solution. Funny that you did a big cleanup, as I was doing that yesterday too. The cookies I’m sure are delicious, although I’d rather have a good spice or butter cookie. I’d love to win a copy of Demonfire to add to the Wolf Tales 9 you emailed me that I had won.
by Cynthia · February 4th, 2010 at 10:11 amI am always panicing. The other day I had to make curtains. They looked really good except one if 3 inches longer than the other. Bummer
by Debby · February 4th, 2010 at 10:12 amWhen things get to me like that, I usually do just what you did. Step back and go do something totally different from what I’m stressing about. Specially if it’s something that doesn’t take a lot of mental strength. Gives your mind a rest and after a good night’s rest for the subconscious you should have more of a handle on everything else. This can take anywhere from a day to a week, depending on how stressed you let yourself get to begin with.
by Beth · February 4th, 2010 at 10:58 amAnd I also do that “Oh, I forgot I had that.” thing a lot around here. I’m a crafter and reader. You can guess what my tables and bookcases look like, not to mention the spare bedroom and garage. I’ve lived in my current house for close to seven years now and still have yet to unpack several boxes from the move. I save them for times when I just have to get away from the rut of life.
Sounds like you did the right thing by taking a break, but it looks like the other writers who commented think you should give in to whatever character is taking priority in your head at the moment!
by Trish · February 4th, 2010 at 12:35 pmI pay a visit to my shrink!
Kate, please send ARC and cookies.
xo Mel
by Mel K. · February 4th, 2010 at 1:11 pmMeljprincess AT aol DOT com
My Best wishes to you!
by Julie Kiesow · February 4th, 2010 at 2:21 pmCool, February 15th is my birthday! I also have a deadline for a short story that day too and I am only 1/2 done
I tried to schedule my day but the gremlins always throw me a curve so I just do generalized goals, write no less than 500 words a day on a ms and try to find one good thing that happened every day. Good luck with Wolf Tales 11!
by Margie Hall · February 4th, 2010 at 2:41 pmMargie
You definitly did the right thintaking a break!
Working 3rd shift I know how easy it is to get overwhelmed. I would let the DemonSlayers/Chanku have their say first so that THEY allow the Wolf Tales story to get told. The Chanku obviously are holding the Wolf Tales hostage
The Cookies will also help relax the Chanku.
Mindy
by Mina Gerhart · February 4th, 2010 at 3:22 pmDid I hear something about chocolate cookies AND a book? Sign me up! Although there are times I must remind myself to EAT the cookies and READ the book.
by mylilypad · February 4th, 2010 at 4:13 pmKate, when I feel my brain is just overwhelmed, I do something absolutely mindless, like playing a computer game. I like the hidden object kind, so I don’t have to stress out about role playing or beating a timer. An hour or so of that usually calms me down and centers me a little better. Going for a drive in my car usually works, as well. Good luck with the squabbling ‘kids’.
Phyllis
by Phyllis Butcher · February 4th, 2010 at 4:25 pmI know what you mean about getting something stuck in your head! I normally unwind by reading a good book by Kate Douglas – I think you might of read of few of those
.
Can you send me some of those cookies?
by Sara · February 4th, 2010 at 5:25 pmHi! Kate
The main thing is to get away from things. I know it will all workout 
keep us posted and Have A Great Day.
by Yvonne W. · February 4th, 2010 at 6:46 pmI made snickerdoodle cookies and brownies today for my son.
Here is what I do when my brain is not working.
I go jump on a horse and for a nice run or a trail ride. I like to go fishing, hiking, shopping, motorcycle riding. Hubby wish I would clean but that just gets me mad after becouse it takes me a week after to find anything
Hey Kate
Then I may clean house or grab a good book…my bookshelves are lined with them! I am so very excited about a lot of new ones coming out, and yes Demon Fire is pre-ordered ! Hope things get back to normal soon but since I have been following your facebook the past few months….you wear me out 
. You are so busy all the time 
Hats off to ya!!
by Cherrie G · February 4th, 2010 at 7:36 pmSorry you are so very overwhelmed with everything right now. I agree with the comments above. The best thing is to stop and do something totally different. Since my job puts me on the computer all day…like you, but totally different type of work…I make sure that is the first thing I hit…..the OFF BUTTON that is.
Hey Kate! What do you mean your not cool, calm, and collected? Haha I know how you feel some days it’s there and another it’s not. Hmmm cookies my weakness, don’t be afraid to send some my way!!
by Maisha · February 4th, 2010 at 7:48 pmFirst off, here’s the cookie recipe. It’s one I made up, but when I need a chocolate fix, these are great:
Double Chocolate Fudge Cookies from Kate’s Kitchen
Preheat oven to 375°
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 cubes butter — melted
½ cup sugar
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup powdered cocoa
1 tsp. baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup flour
1 package Ghirardelli double chocolate brownie mix
1-1/2 cups chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Beat eggs, sugars, vanilla and butter. Add cocoa, salt & baking soda and mix thoroughly, then add flour and brownie mix. Add nuts at the very last. Dough will be stiff.
Drop in teaspoonfuls on greased cookie sheet and form into tight mounds w/your fingers. Bake approx. 8 minutes and move to cooling rack.
by Kate Douglas · February 4th, 2010 at 7:49 pmHi Kate, there is nothing like a wee bit of chocolate and some quiet time to disappear into a great story to help recharge me. If my house is full of my men (like today), I go for a walk to enjoy the silence and just breath in some testosterone free air, lol.
by Cathy M · February 4th, 2010 at 7:52 pm
Kate,
by Earlene · February 4th, 2010 at 7:52 pmWhen I have those kind of days, I just throw up my hands and watch a favorite movie, play games on the computer, or call and vent to my sisters. Then I can come back all refreshed.
Of course ice cream or cookies always helps. LOL
Now to catch up, and I apologize for being late, but I slept in this morning and have been dealing with business stuff ever since. You guys are NOT business, you’re fun, so you get left until last!
Carrie, I have had that happen and you just need to learn not to fight it. I actually wrote an entire book to shut a character up–Last of the O’Rourkes is a contemporary romance that got done because Kat Malone literally haunted me for years! Contact me for an interview any time–I need to promote the heck out of DemonFire so my publisher doesn’t send out a hit man after me if the book tanks! (Just kidding…they wouldn’t do that. I hope…)
Sue A, I just posted the cookie recipe.
Cynthia, wish I could concentrate on the one yelling the loudest, but those deadlines sort of force me to toe the mark. It always works out, so I’m not too concerned! But thanks–you’re right!
Debby, now you know why I don’t sew much anymore. I used to make all my husband’s shirts and it made me nuts–though they were beautiful!
Beth, we’ve had this place for seven years and I’VE still got stuff in moving boxes! Embarrassing, but I’ve learned to live with it.
Trish, I went for the break! It felt SOOOO good!
Mel, m’love. Only you.
Thanks, Julie, and Margie, good luck finishing your story. Sometimes 500 words is a damned good day, and then sometimes I’ll have a 10,000 word day and wonder where in the HELL all those words came from!
Mina, that third shift is a tough one. I don’t know how you do it. It was so hard when my husband did shift work, just trying to keep kids quiet so he could sleep!
Chocolate cookies, a good book and a fresh cup of coffee is my idea of heaven. It don’t get no better’n that!
Phyllis, going for a drive helps me, but computer games are the LAST thing–I spent seventeen hours on my computer yesterday, just working. Looking at the screen anymore might fry pertinent brain cells!
Sara, you’re my kinda gal! Thanks…and sorry, but I’ve already posted the recipe and you’ll just have to make your own!
Yvonne, that’s the only problem with cleaning–you can’t find anything afterward! And heaven forbid I throw out something, because that just means I’ll need it later!
Maisha, maybe if this writing gig doesn’t work, I can go into business selling cookies, eh?
Time to go make lunch for the Lord of the Manor, then it’s back to work on Wolf Tales 11. I’ll check back with you guys later today.
by Kate Douglas · February 4th, 2010 at 8:07 pmTake it easy, Kate, and OH, get that writing done!!! LOL
by Barbara Hansen · February 4th, 2010 at 9:34 pmfor me when I get really frustrated I usually just go walk either an actual walk or get on the treadmill. I also listen to music while I am doing the walking. Burns off the excess of emotion so that I can calm down and think straight again.
by Larena Wirum · February 4th, 2010 at 10:01 pmHey Kate-
by Darkreader · February 4th, 2010 at 10:32 pmI’m so glad you are a ditz! lol I would love to get lucky due to your ditzyness. I am too ocd – I have to have everything in its place.
I like to destress by baking, I’ve been on this Apple Crumble Pie kick – I always have to make one regular and one with sugar sub for the hubby!
Kate
and keep the money for me.
by Yvonne W. · February 4th, 2010 at 10:55 pmI know I hate to throw out anything but bills
I need to get cleaning becouse it looks like it will be our last year here in KY. Hubby said I have 14yrs. of stuff to go through and throw away stuff. all I know my 2000 and some book will be going with us to LA. or I will sell all his golf stuff and his toys
Hey Kate can’t wait for DemonFire to come out. Looks like a great read. Love the cover can’t wait to see what they do with the next one. Happy reading everyone
by Josephine · February 4th, 2010 at 11:18 pmI take some downtime and read or play on the computer.
by Estella · February 4th, 2010 at 11:18 pmI usually step away from what I’m doing and do something else for a while…like read a story or take a bubble bath or talk to a friend. Hopefully my mind is a bit clearer after this so I can get back to what I was supposed to be doing
by Jeanette Jackson · February 4th, 2010 at 11:19 pmBarbara, I really think that’s a lot of it. I definitely haven’t got my usual energy levels up to snuff. That flu really knocked me for a loop!
Larena, I don’t have a treadmill, but a walk really helps me clear my head. The problem there is the rain! After three years of drought, we’re catching up big time. Sort of a good news/bad news thing…
Oooh…Darkreader, I LOVE apple crumble, though I don’t do it as a pie, just more as a casserole. Yummy.
Yvonne…wow! LA? That’s a big change from KY! Good luck. And I like your ideas…
Josephine, if you want to see the cover for HellFire, go to http://www.kensingtonbooks.com/demonslayers and click on the HellFire tab. They may change it–I’m not happy with the heroine. Ginny is black in the story, but she’s barely tan on the cover, so I’m waiting to see if Kensington can do anything about it.
I think that’s my problem, Estella. I’m ready for downtime, but no room in the schedule!
Jeanette, that bubble bath sounds heavenly. Maybe I can schedule one of those…
by Kate Douglas · February 5th, 2010 at 12:10 amHey Kate, the cookies are great and the boys (all three) like the too. I think I have told your before to step back, except a cyber hug,
and breath deep. If that doesn’t work try a bubble bath for two with two large glasses of juice spritzer and have some messages. 
Beyond that I think your on your own. LOL!!!
Take care
by Tracey · February 5th, 2010 at 12:43 amhugs,
Tracey
When I can’t get my head on straight , I bury myself in a good book.
Good luck with your books.
I would love to win the ARC. If not I will buy it when it comes out.
Julie
by Julie Swaney · February 5th, 2010 at 12:55 amChocolate chip with pecans are my absolute favorite. I make them a lot…just because I love them. If I can’t concentrate or can’t get anything accomplished, I do something I want to do, usually read a book.
by Janet H · February 5th, 2010 at 1:13 amHI K!
DEMONFIRE SOUNDS JUST AWESOME! I MAY HAVE TO KILL DH TO GET TO BUY IT THOUGH.
by hotcha1 · February 5th, 2010 at 1:48 amThe cookies sound yummy!! I love Ghirardelli chocolate!
I’m looking forward to Demonfire.
by Ameliad · February 5th, 2010 at 2:38 amWhen I get frustrated and can’t concentrate, I put the earphones on, turn on the Celtic Thunder in my iPos shuffle and just veg out until I’m normal again (well as close to normal as I get anyway). Sometimes it is just the music, sometimes I add a good book (like an ARC of Demonfire ???) but the music always works for me.
by Nancy Gilliland · February 5th, 2010 at 3:32 amWhen my wheels are spinning, I set work down and do something else for a while. Cooking is wonderfully relaxing to me and, of course, you are left with something tangible for your efforts. Sometimes a shorter break is all that one can have. In this case, listening to some favorite music and dancing around the house with the children really help. Other women might dance with their significant other but mine is extremely reluctant in this activity.
by Little Lamb Lost · February 5th, 2010 at 3:51 amJulie, I do the same. Luckily I’m judging RITA contest entries this month, which means I have eight really great romances I HAVE TO READ! I love it when it’s something I’m supposed to be doing. No guilt!
Janet, isn’t it cool how many people here will read a book when they’re stressed? We’ve all got the same escape!
Hotcha, just don’t TELL DH! LOL…this one should be in grocery stores and places like Walmart and Target, so you can sorta slip it in with the potatoes…
Ameliad, try them. They’re really good. I make them all the time and stick them in the freezer.
Nancy, I do that on occasion, too. Either my Celtic CDs or Enya. LOVE Enya!
LLL
You need to loosen up the spouse a bit! Though I can’t imagine getting mine to dance around the house with me, either, though he used to be an amazing dancer. I remember country western dances when he would–on occasion, and after enough beer–high kick over his head. Now, for a slim guy who’s 6′4″, those are VERY LONG LEGS to kick!
by Kate Douglas · February 5th, 2010 at 5:19 amWell Kate, I read a card that was sent to me to cheer me up and encourage me to hang in there and it went like this: “When you’re down and out, lift up your head and shout, AH SHIT!! Works for me. lol Brightens me up everytime and puts a little pep in my step. But I also read to separate myself from the hassles of now so that I can fight another day. If I’m really overwhelmed and on the border of getting depressed cause I can’t catch up with all the stuff I have to do. I get my 78rpm & 45pm records and oldie tapes and just dance and sing my heart out. I like R&B from the 50s and 60s; music that I grew up with and the memories always make me smile and feel lighter and energize me. I used to cook sweets but I am trying to reform so I try not to think of that solution. Kate, you can add some pounds. Not true for me. ;> D Mo
by Mo · February 5th, 2010 at 8:08 amI haven’t yet experienced your demon world, but being a returning visitor to the world of The Chanku, I’ll just say that I’d take any opportunity to play with Mik & AJ.They are my favorites.
by Crystal Dee · February 5th, 2010 at 2:43 pmG’morning, Mo! I could have written that card! On occasion, I’ve been known to say that or MUCH worse! And no, m’dear….I CANNOT add any pounds. You’ve met the skinny dude I’m married to! I do NOT want to be bigger around than my spouse! Ain’t gonna happen…
Crystal, I’m writing about Mik and AJ in the new book, and have to admit, they’re special to me, too. I’m WAY too attached to all these guys! Thanks for checking in. Btw, I’ll be picking a winner tonight.
by Kate Douglas · February 5th, 2010 at 4:54 pmI either read or play with my dog!
by Amanda · February 5th, 2010 at 6:51 pmSince I’ll be snowed in this weekend, I’m going to rearrange my office and reogranize my bookcases… fun. LOL
by Tracey D · February 5th, 2010 at 6:54 pmAmanda, we do the same things! What is it about dogs that are automatic stress reducers? Except when they’re being complete idiots and then they RAISE the stress levels?
Wow! Snowed in? It’s not all that much fun–when we were snowed in a couple of weeks ago, the power went out and it was SO COLD, even with the wood stove, that it was hard to appreciate the potential romance of the event. Oh…and did I mention that my husband’s back was out?
Romance wasn’t even on the RADAR! 
by Kate Douglas · February 5th, 2010 at 7:10 pmThanks for the wonderful cookie recipe, Kate!!! Since I’m in Maryland and about to get hit with lots of snow, I know what I’ll be baking.
I agree with my fellow bloggers–take a break when you need it to do your best. Those of us who love your books (Rasberries to RT!!!) know that you do a great job and can’t wait for DemonFire!!!
by Dawn · February 5th, 2010 at 7:24 pm
Stay warm, Dawn! I’ve got friends in Reston, VA, and they’re already getting hit with snow!!! It’s supposed to rain out here tonight, but rather that than the white stuff. Take care.
by Kate Douglas · February 5th, 2010 at 11:39 pmi just love your books.
by kristina · February 6th, 2010 at 12:21 amthis latest one is great.
can’t wait to read it
thank you Kristina! Much appreciated.
by Kate Douglas · February 6th, 2010 at 3:03 amCongratulations, Kate! I hope you are now feeling 100% and back to your energetic self! Chocolate definitely helps any situation : ) I have learned to not be overwhelmed by the whole big picture. Break it down into smaller units, and whittle away at the little things. When it comes time to tackle the bigger issues, they won’t be so big anymore!
by Virginia C · February 6th, 2010 at 9:22 pmSo true, Virginia. Reminds me of the Anne Lamott book on writing, titled BIRD BY BIRD. The title comes from advice her father gave on writing a term paper about birds–write it bird by bird. Makes sense!
by Kate Douglas · February 6th, 2010 at 9:24 pmCONGRATULATIONS TO HOTCHA 1–and I cracked up when I realized yours was the name I’d pulled. I may have saved your DH’s life! Damn…talk about a multi-purpose win!!!
I’ll be contacting you off-site and getting your address so I can mail the book. Thanks to all of you for stopping by.
by Kate Douglas · February 6th, 2010 at 11:09 pm