This service provides feedback, proofreading, editing, resume, and composition advice for fledgling writers, for those wishing to improve their communication skills, for authors needing editing services and for those entering the job market. See below for rates and specific services.
Writer's Services Rates for per page and per word are as follows:
$30 per double-spaced, typewritten page (for proofreading and simple copy-editing services only). Ask about a full-manuscript quote before services, as other fees may apply.
**2024's Special! The first 5, double-spaced pages of your manuscript proof-read with editing suggestions for a special fee. Contact Laura Kaighn for this promotional deal. Promo code: Publish 2024. Hurry! This offer expires December 31, 2024.
$100 flat fee for Resume services, up to three pages.
$150 flat fee for sample reading (five pages), includes one hour personal consultation.
$.04 per word for longer documents.
**Some additional fees may apply if more extensive services and subsequent re-editing are required. Please inquire of all Laura Kaighn's services and fees.**
Please note: Documents must be presented in MS Word capable formats for ease of access and editing. Both Blue & Red type will be used to make changes and suggestions for the author's discretion. Author retains copyrights on all original works. Plagiarism will not be tolerated or protected by Lady Hawke Storytelling & Writer's Services. All works submitted must be the property of the original author and submitted for open augmentation by this service. Lady Hawke Writer's Services will be as kind and supportive as possible in working with its authors. We all have hearts and egos!
Join a Writers' Group for Greater Growth!
New Jersey Writers Resource Group: (NJWRG) This writing group, facilitated by Laura Kaighn since 2013, meets in person on the second Tuesday of each month at the Margaret E. Heggan Free Public Library from 6:30- 8:30pm. Through Zoom or other local venue, we gather each fourth Tuesday. (Please inquire through email to join us online.) All adults 16 yrs.+ are welcome to join us. Writing topics, exercises, assignments, projects, critiquing sessions and workshops vary. Please check for meeting dates through the library's online event calendar. Address: 606 Delsea Drive, Sewell, NJ 08080, Phone: 856-589-3334. (NOTE: The NJWRG is not sponsored by the Margaret E. Heggan Free Public Library.) For more information, contact Laura via email: ladyhawkestorytelling@comcast.net. Find the NJWRG on Facebook!
The Book Asylum Writers: (aka the Asylumites!) This writing group, facilitated by Laura Kaighn since 2013, meets the first Thursday of every month from 6-8pm (Currently suspended and looking for a new home!). Writing topics, exercises, assignments, projects, critiquing sessions and workshops vary. We're looking for a new meeting site! Email Laura for more information: ladyhawkestorytelling@comcast.net.
Testimonials from Patrons, Readers and Writers Group Members:
"Laura. I wanted to thank you again for all you do for the writer's group. I really appreciate it, and so do all the members. You always go above and beyond, and Tuesday's (guest authors) meeting was proof of that. Sincerely", Jeanne Wachter, Margaret Heggan Library's former Public Relations Coordinator, 6/17/14.
"Thank you so very much, Laura! So many realistic ideas and now we can go forward. Now we look forward to tackling (Jim's book) with your guidelines! I will get back to you when we get the revisions made. Thanks again!" Doreen Shepard, Storyteller, 7/31/13.
"Laura Kaighn was extremely helpful editing an article I wrote for Birds and Blooms Magazine. Correct punctuation, spelling of the words I intended and alternative words and phrases all improved the clarity and readability of the article. Thank you, Laura." Al Evans, Bass for Special Occasion Barbershop Quartet.
"I wanted to take a moment and thank you for your work in helping me market my business. You are a true wordsmith. I was having such a difficult time with phrasing; and you came up with so many ideas, I couldn't find space for them all. I will surely be requesting your services in the future when I start my next marketing campaign." Hope Bitner, Proprietress, You Name it Arrangements.
"I relied on Laura Kaighn’s “Writer’s Services” back in 1992 to proofread and edit a child development brochure, The Importance of Teachable Moments. As a professional nanny and Discovery Toy Representative, I developed this tool to include in educational packets presented to other childcare professionals who attended my seminars during various International Nanny Association (INA) conferences across the USA. Ms. Kaighn’s many years' experience as an educator with a Bachelor's Degree in Education and a Master's in Library Science made her the best choice for the job of editing my brochure. Her analysis and suggestions helped refine this educational tool to its most concise and digestible form. I would recommend Laura Kaighn’s “Writer Services” to anyone looking to clarify the meaning of their work and capture the spirit of the audience for which it is intended!" – Alice N. Bingert, Memory Care Director, Emeritus Assisted Living, Va.
"Hi Laura. I really enjoyed this afternoon's session! I finally feel as if there is a place for me here in Williamstown. Thanks for all the help and great information. I'm looking forward to seeing you again on Tuesday. I feel like a little kid just before opening my Christmas presents. Really appreciate it. You truly are a fountain of resources. Have a great rest of the weekend and write on!!" Virginia (Ginny) Swangler, Member NJWRG, 11/16/13.
"Thank You, Laura. The (writing) session was great. I'm looking forward to the next one. You are an inspiration to us all. I know that it takes a lot of preparation on your part to keep this group going and I just want to let you know that you are appreciated. Love you." Penny Hanson, Member NJWRG, 10/9/13.
“I just sat down with my second cup of coffee and reread your edits on my returned piece. Thank you for spending the time – all suggestions are spot on. I especially like the part where you compare my use of visual detail to your own, although I am pretty sure I am not worthy of that distinction as no one paints a picture with words any better than you do! Thanks to our group, our discussions and sharing our work, I have finally become comfortable with receiving help and appreciate the benefit of other eyes. In the past, I felt that help was cheating. But, now that I know that real writers do it, well... I can't tell you how much I appreciate your kind words of encouragement. An avid reader my whole life (when I had the time), I only started writing about 4 years ago.” Linda Silver, SILVER ILLUSTRATION & DESIGN, 11/26/14.
"Thank you Laura. I enjoyed last evening with you and everyone. This will inspire me to go forward on writing a children's book. I look forward to further class sessions. Thanks." Cindy Cook, Member NJWRG, 9/25/13.
"Laura. Great session last night... the best I've attended to date. You bestowed the necessary tools for transforming our jumbled ideas into a strategic endeavor! Your eloquent use of French literary terms was stimulating! The Asylumite regulars who did not attend missed a truly enjoyable evening! Looking forward to your guidance once again. Cheers." Jim Guidotti, Member The Book Asylum Writers, 8/2/13.
"Dear Laura - You are doing a wonderful job of keeping the group strong and alive. The diversity is refreshing. Last night was great fun. I could not come up with anything in the 20 minutes; although I did think of something later. I just may write it up for the future." Marcia Sherman, Member NJWRG, 7/24/13.
"Dear Laura; I love reading your e-mails. They are so uplifting---energetic, and make me want to focus on writing. I think I enjoy hearing the other writer’s stories, and I value your tips on techniques for ‘good writing’. I admire you Laura!! You are inspiring! Everyone who meets you is enriched. Thanks for what you do. My best wishes to you and all the Asylumites." Thelma Kline, Member The Book Asylum Writers, 1/13/14.
"Dear Laura, I had such a wonderful time. So happy I found a local group and what talent! Everybody was very warm and inviting and I will be back. You run a terrific group, and I love sitting in the cafe. The meeting is what I just Needed. I was feeling a little down lately." Alison Wilkom, Author, 6/6/14.
"Just like to say your story THANKS FOR THE SCARLET MEMORIES was a very good, detailed and enjoyable story. Glued to it the whole time! Captain Blue is my fav character and it was great to have so much of him in the story!! Please continue your fantastic writing!!!" Emma Farrell, Captain Scarlet & the Mysterons Fan
"Just to say I read THE DUNGEON OF DRAGONS, and it was another fantastic story!! I don't know how Scarlet and Pavel coped in the icy cold, not seeing anything, not even their hands! I would have gone nuts by then! I also loved the Russian guys, the kid finding the equipment that was dropped, and Adam needing some help to find it. "BINGO" lol" Emma Farrell, Captain Scarlet & the Mysterons Fan
Blogs & Writer's Notes
‘Cat-Phishin’ 4/16/14
Of my current three felines, T. Rex is my weirdest. I truly believe animals have a sense of humor; for sure Rexy does! Rex doesn't just get himself a drink of water. Rexy goes fishing...
Because of our dogs, now numbering just one, a twelve inch high wooden stand sits against a kitchen wall. In it nestles two stainless steel bowls - one for Tundra's food, the other for fresh water.
All three of my cats have learned to climb atop and straddle the stand for a watery respite. They take turns dipping a paw into the bowl, thus acquiring a drink by delicately licking a dunked foot. It's a rather charming show. But Rexy's gone one step further.
Sitting alongside the stand, tucked in against the corner wall, Rexy glares over the edge of the bowl, ears back, and waits. A tilt of head, a slow blink of wise eyes, a pitch of ears and a moment's tenseness precludes his sudden dart of paw. "Phunk!" The swat up and over the bowl's rim bags Rexy a small wave and splash of water. Triumphant, he retrieves his prize - a perfectly plunked paw, ready for licking. He'll repeat this hunting behavior, sometimes splashing the wall, the floor, his companions, even himself, before completing his fishing expedition with a tidy grooming of the displaced water atop the stand. Yes, Rexy even licks the bowl rim clean.
Unfortunately, Rexy isn't so particular about the water that ends up anywhere else. I suppose that's my job... Hey, at least I don't have to cut up worms for the hook!
‘Kaynoeing in a Spring Shower’, 4/15/14
With the end of winter comes the potential for renewed energies and experiences beyond the warmed walls of our homes and vehicles. Two weeks ago, amidst a chance of scattered rain showers, my friend Debi and I nonetheless braved the cold waters of Parvin State Park and Parvin Lake to rekindle our love of "kaynoeing".
Kaynoeing is a term my dear friend and nature colleague invented to explain our joint and watery adventures. You see, Debi uses a canoe with a kayak paddle, rather than a canoe oar - mostly because the double-bladed paddle makes it easier for her to stroke through the water despite her bad back. Brilliantly, it works in open water! When we get up into the confinements of the lake's feeder stream, however, we both switch to oars. The overhanging vines, sprawling tree branches and twisting track of the narrowing watercourse can tangle us up in our own arms otherwise!
I, instead, use a kayak with a kayak paddle (except when I too am trash-compacted among branches and an anorexic stream). The Water Tiger II is my personal watercraft of choice: a sit-inside, 9 foot Coleman Rebel of bright orange influence. It was the last vessel available at Dick's Sporting Goods during an autumn stock-out sale three years ago. I had hoped for the blue model (my favorite color). However, when the last Rebel in stock was hauled out to me and set upon the showroom floor, a slow smile spread across my lips. It was perfect!
Orange isn't my favorite color, but my particular birth year sparked this kayak's potential. Under the Chinese calendar, I was born in the year of the tiger. The corresponding element that year was water. I was purchasing an orange boat! I had also recently been introduced to an immensely sticky and durable substance known as Gorilla Tape, from the makers of Gorilla Glue. With this versatile tape, I would customize my kayak and name it the Water Tiger II. I already own an orange and yellow sit-on-top kayak which I'd also dressed up two years prior, and subsequently named the Water Tiger... By cutting strips of tape in swirling, skewed slices, I recreated along the bow, stern and sides of the kayak, the semblance of tiger stripes. The effect was quickly identifiable, as was the stick-on letters spelling out the vessel's name. Though the guys at Home Depot gawked at my intended use for the water-resistant letters, I threw my shoulders proud and announced that my boat might be tiny compared to luxury yachts, but it was all mine!
Thus that day, with our hallmark vessels and paddling styles in hand, Debi and I forged the still waters of Parvin Lake, kaynoeing along with Nature's other citizens. We met aggressive nesting swans, buffleheads and mallard ducks, Canada geese, red-bellied turtles, great blue herons and a lone osprey which had settled in a naked tree by the water's edge - perhaps to scout out spring nesting sites.
Though the forecast had been for sunnying skies with just a chance at a passing sprits, we two bravely headed the length of the lake to the feeder stream at its northern end. We'd see just how far in we could get before a winter-torn tree blocked our path. My arms burned with winter's inactivity just as we reached an impasse in the watercourse and had to turn back. The stream itself was our engine in drifting back to the lake. Like a lazy river ride at Disney, we needed only to adjust our boats' bows to avoid the frilly fringes of the state forest to either side.
A side trip into a secluded cove, where we discovered an abandoned wood duck nesting box, stalled our return to the dock long enough for the gathering clouds to gain in strength and let loose their collected moisture. At first it drizzled. Then the air became a misting inverted umbrella, engulfing us in dampness. By the time we were both paddling toward the osprey's tree, the storm's intent had become serious. The sound of the raindrops against the lake's calm surface reminded me of a cockleshell necklace being shaken - charmingly like a soothing baby rattle - to perhaps dissuade us from dashing off to leave. I nonetheless was quickly getting drenched despite my all-weather jacket and wool fedora. My denimmed knees were darkening to deep-dyed indigo. The water's coolness was creeping up my bent legs.
I paddled strongly, enlivened by my own burning muscles. I stopped only long enough to gulp an extra deep breath and start again. The lake curled up against my kayak's bow like a rogue wave before a surfing dolphin. Two boys fishing along the lakeshore ducked beneath the rain's onslaught at our passing. Even as I paddled by them, I wondered how long they'd brave the storm before retreating.
Then there was the stillness of an empty parking lot, my welcome Jeep with its canopied sanctuary, and the dim prospects of hauling a dripping kayak into a rain revealed back cab. Luckily for Debi and me, the rain relinquished its moisture, and we were able to haul our boats out and into our vehicles without too much mess. By the time I drove off to return home, the Jeep was warmed by its heater and the sun was breaking through the clouds. I was soon both dry and hungry from my ordeal.
Ah, the renewal of spring. We had grabbed the weather by the rain clouds, defied the coolness of early April, and ventured out onto the water to go kaynoeing in a spring shower. When next will we defy the persistent dregs of a long cold winter? I hear we're in for snow showers tonight! Drats!! Not in my back lake!
Rabbit’s Tale & Other Rites of Passage, 1/19/14
Publishing in sight. Oh the joy! Much like the words of Meriwether Lewis, I'm excited to say that the journey that took me from "Rabbit's Tale" in 1996 to a complete anthology of collected stories, including family and nature tales, has been many years in the planning and creating. I'm pleased to announce that the book will very shortly be available for purchase. The manuscript was sent away tonight. A few follow-ups and an application for Library of Congress designation, and another of my literary babies will be out there in the world for students, parents, teachers, librarians and the general public to read and share. This book includes a charming pencil drawing for each of the 23 tales. I wanted to make the reader smile and anticipate where the picture comes in while they're reading each story.
I'm most proud of "The Castled Oak", a journal entry turned poignant story that was written just recently during one of my writers group meetings. It tells the story of an ancient tree and the progress which seals its fate. I do hope my readers find hope and harmony within these many-times humorous tales. I enjoyed documenting them for you!
Appreciating Talent, 11/06/13
I truly believe that everyone has talent! We all know how to do something, and do it well. Unlike the birds, we will never learn to fly unaided by mechanical means or a strong headwind and mounted airfoil. We do, however, possess the ability to share our talents for the good of others. So, whatever your talent, learn it well. Do a commendable job with it. Accept praise graciously, and never accept that others can criticize you simply because they don't share your gift. Be willing to learn from your mistakes. Be sincere in your praise of others. Be also kind in heart-felt criticism for the betterment of others. If we don't know what we do wrong, we can never correct it. Be always kind in the consideration of others' egos. Change comes slowly.
Change is facing that oncoming wave, no matter what the size, knowing you'll survive and be stronger for the resistance. And finally, never accept that your talent comes free for the taking. When we work for others' benefits, there is always a positive return in how we are perceived for that talent. May we all accept the gifts of others and appreciate them even if we do not see them in ourselves. Peace.
Realizing Our Gifts, 11/7/13
Every day we each face the challenges of getting up, plodding along in a forward motion, accomplishing some chore or project which will either maintain our life, make it better, or most importantly- create a better world for someone else. The efforts for this can be as simple as a shared smile or kind word. Monumental shifts are seldom effective within such a short span of hours. Raising a nation and changing the world take time and Herculean stamina! It also takes patience, cooperation and an acceptance of compromise. That said, if you can make a positive difference for yourself and another Earth inhabitant each day, then you are a part of the forward momentum that slowly progresses our lives to be both fulfilling and beneficial to the wider world. Peace and prosperity to us all. Earth Mother breathes her freshness upon each new dawn. Carpe Diem!!
Volunteering is Good for All of Us! 7/11/13
As a lifetime educator, I've often been asked to share my skills and knowledge. There are a few local places dear to my heart, so I give my time to them to make their programs and events richer while nurturing my own spirit. If you have a place that's close to you, that could use your assistance and would appreciate your skills, then give of yourself. The benefits are worth the effort!
For many years, Scotland Run Park in Gloucester County, NJ has provided year-round nature programs for the general public and special children's programming throughout the summer. All this is done under the competent and compassionate tutelage of L. Jill Taylor, Senior Park Naturalist. I've volunteered at Scotland Run Park since 1996, and have become a Docent Naturalist to keep the quality programming going at the park. Come; join us for the variety of nature-themed events. These programs help us to connect with the Earth, our planet and shared home. The program schedule can be found through the Gloucester County Parks & Recreation website: www.co.gloucester.nj.us. Share your email address to receive the monthly newsletter free to your inbox! They're also on Facebook!
Another long-time love of mine is writing. Since childhood, I've been scheming tales of furry critters, science fiction aliens and fan-fiction for my favorite television shows and movies. Now that I have a book published (See Earth Child: The E.D. Piper Chronicles), I'm spreading the word and guiding new authors and writer newcomers to the skills and benefits of quality written communication. If you have an interest in joining a writers group, just drop me an email: ladyhawkestorytelling@comcast.net. I am facilitator in two local writers groups and am a member of two others including the South Jersey Writers Group. I'm also an active participant in two statewide authors groups, both the New Jersey Authors Network and the South Jersey Women Authors. Get involved. Grow your skills. Communication is how we interact with one another and with every living thing on Earth. Never stop learning. Never stop growing.
Peace, LJK
The Simple Life, 8/21/12
In any given day, there are a thousand blessings to each of us. We need only be aware of them. Aware. It's a term Native American Indians use to explain how we learn and exist. Children are fostered to be aware of their surroundings, their senses, the opportunities to add to their knowledge and wisdom.
To fully be aware and to take note of every blessing, look to your heart. Pay attention to the wind, the scent of flowers, good food. Feel the warmth of a hug, the sound of childhood laughter. Smile and receive one in return. Think of what you can do to learn something new each day, to perhaps ease someone's suffering or contribute to the welfare of another. Be kind; be thoughtful. Take a stand against an injustice. Share a laugh. Hold a door. Pick up a piece of refuse and dispose of it properly. Such small actions need not expend money or even much time. But you might make the difference in someone else's day. And that tiny gesture can be a blessing to you both.
My husband made a wooden and rope swing for me. We hung it in the front yard on a tree limb for our 28th wedding anniversary. He is daily a source of strength, integrity and wisdom to me. We bless each other daily. By cooperation and mutual respect, we two share a life together. The swing is a simple pleasure, but through it, I will be allowed to accept all the blessings which come with it. Inscribed on the seat are the words: "For the Love of Freedom". May we all continue to thrive and be free, both within ourselves and with each other. Wado.
Earth Child: The E.D. Piper Chronicles Blog, 8/03/12
Earth Child is actually a 25 year old brain hiccup of mine. The impetus for this novel has been swirling around my cranium for that long without any direction, just a collection of dream-story recalls which I had documented faithfully in my dream journal. When I was recently developing a writer's workshop for dreams, I revisited those journals and discovered a storehouse of stories and themes which all melded into a singular, profound message: that of respect for the Earth and all its creatures. Thus the tapestry of Earth Child was begun, from the very first tentative strokes of needle and bits of thread to the added fancy stitches of fully developed episodes.
It's the first time I have ever constructed a novel using the first person. I recall having been assigned such a project back in my high school and college creative writing classes, but this was different. This was an entire young adult fantasy novel from someone who has embraced nature and science fiction writing from an early age. Needless to say, it was a methodical and uncertain start, with many questions and justifications along the way. I never wanted Earth Child to sound too preachy. I needed it to sound as though the observations were coming from a realistic character with genuine feelings of wonder and despair. Ehlora is a reluctant heroine, yet one who has great empathy for her fellow Earth citizens, no matter the size or form. I believe her ability to shape-shift enhances that empathy. I hope Ehlora feels as real to her readers as she does to me. I envy her extraordinary abilities while respecting her conviction. May we all live in balance and harmony with all of Earth Mother's lifeforms ...
‘Cat-Phishin’ 4/16/14
Of my current three felines, T. Rex is my weirdest. I truly believe animals have a sense of humor; for sure Rexy does! Rex doesn't just get himself a drink of water. Rexy goes fishing...
Because of our dogs, now numbering just one, a twelve inch high wooden stand sits against a kitchen wall. In it nestles two stainless steel bowls - one for Tundra's food, the other for fresh water.
All three of my cats have learned to climb atop and straddle the stand for a watery respite. They take turns dipping a paw into the bowl, thus acquiring a drink by delicately licking a dunked foot. It's a rather charming show. But Rexy's gone one step further.
Sitting alongside the stand, tucked in against the corner wall, Rexy glares over the edge of the bowl, ears back, and waits. A tilt of head, a slow blink of wise eyes, a pitch of ears and a moment's tenseness precludes his sudden dart of paw. "Phunk!" The swat up and over the bowl's rim bags Rexy a small wave and splash of water. Triumphant, he retrieves his prize - a perfectly plunked paw, ready for licking. He'll repeat this hunting behavior, sometimes splashing the wall, the floor, his companions, even himself, before completing his fishing expedition with a tidy grooming of the displaced water atop the stand. Yes, Rexy even licks the bowl rim clean.
Unfortunately, Rexy isn't so particular about the water that ends up anywhere else. I suppose that's my job... Hey, at least I don't have to cut up worms for the hook!
‘Kaynoeing in a Spring Shower’, 4/15/14
With the end of winter comes the potential for renewed energies and experiences beyond the warmed walls of our homes and vehicles. Two weeks ago, amidst a chance of scattered rain showers, my friend Debi and I nonetheless braved the cold waters of Parvin State Park and Parvin Lake to rekindle our love of "kaynoeing".
Kaynoeing is a term my dear friend and nature colleague invented to explain our joint and watery adventures. You see, Debi uses a canoe with a kayak paddle, rather than a canoe oar - mostly because the double-bladed paddle makes it easier for her to stroke through the water despite her bad back. Brilliantly, it works in open water! When we get up into the confinements of the lake's feeder stream, however, we both switch to oars. The overhanging vines, sprawling tree branches and twisting track of the narrowing watercourse can tangle us up in our own arms otherwise!
I, instead, use a kayak with a kayak paddle (except when I too am trash-compacted among branches and an anorexic stream). The Water Tiger II is my personal watercraft of choice: a sit-inside, 9 foot Coleman Rebel of bright orange influence. It was the last vessel available at Dick's Sporting Goods during an autumn stock-out sale three years ago. I had hoped for the blue model (my favorite color). However, when the last Rebel in stock was hauled out to me and set upon the showroom floor, a slow smile spread across my lips. It was perfect!
Orange isn't my favorite color, but my particular birth year sparked this kayak's potential. Under the Chinese calendar, I was born in the year of the tiger. The corresponding element that year was water. I was purchasing an orange boat! I had also recently been introduced to an immensely sticky and durable substance known as Gorilla Tape, from the makers of Gorilla Glue. With this versatile tape, I would customize my kayak and name it the Water Tiger II. I already own an orange and yellow sit-on-top kayak which I'd also dressed up two years prior, and subsequently named the Water Tiger... By cutting strips of tape in swirling, skewed slices, I recreated along the bow, stern and sides of the kayak, the semblance of tiger stripes. The effect was quickly identifiable, as was the stick-on letters spelling out the vessel's name. Though the guys at Home Depot gawked at my intended use for the water-resistant letters, I threw my shoulders proud and announced that my boat might be tiny compared to luxury yachts, but it was all mine!
Thus that day, with our hallmark vessels and paddling styles in hand, Debi and I forged the still waters of Parvin Lake, kaynoeing along with Nature's other citizens. We met aggressive nesting swans, buffleheads and mallard ducks, Canada geese, red-bellied turtles, great blue herons and a lone osprey which had settled in a naked tree by the water's edge - perhaps to scout out spring nesting sites.
Though the forecast had been for sunnying skies with just a chance at a passing sprits, we two bravely headed the length of the lake to the feeder stream at its northern end. We'd see just how far in we could get before a winter-torn tree blocked our path. My arms burned with winter's inactivity just as we reached an impasse in the watercourse and had to turn back. The stream itself was our engine in drifting back to the lake. Like a lazy river ride at Disney, we needed only to adjust our boats' bows to avoid the frilly fringes of the state forest to either side.
A side trip into a secluded cove, where we discovered an abandoned wood duck nesting box, stalled our return to the dock long enough for the gathering clouds to gain in strength and let loose their collected moisture. At first it drizzled. Then the air became a misting inverted umbrella, engulfing us in dampness. By the time we were both paddling toward the osprey's tree, the storm's intent had become serious. The sound of the raindrops against the lake's calm surface reminded me of a cockleshell necklace being shaken - charmingly like a soothing baby rattle - to perhaps dissuade us from dashing off to leave. I nonetheless was quickly getting drenched despite my all-weather jacket and wool fedora. My denimmed knees were darkening to deep-dyed indigo. The water's coolness was creeping up my bent legs.
I paddled strongly, enlivened by my own burning muscles. I stopped only long enough to gulp an extra deep breath and start again. The lake curled up against my kayak's bow like a rogue wave before a surfing dolphin. Two boys fishing along the lakeshore ducked beneath the rain's onslaught at our passing. Even as I paddled by them, I wondered how long they'd brave the storm before retreating.
Then there was the stillness of an empty parking lot, my welcome Jeep with its canopied sanctuary, and the dim prospects of hauling a dripping kayak into a rain revealed back cab. Luckily for Debi and me, the rain relinquished its moisture, and we were able to haul our boats out and into our vehicles without too much mess. By the time I drove off to return home, the Jeep was warmed by its heater and the sun was breaking through the clouds. I was soon both dry and hungry from my ordeal.
Ah, the renewal of spring. We had grabbed the weather by the rain clouds, defied the coolness of early April, and ventured out onto the water to go kaynoeing in a spring shower. When next will we defy the persistent dregs of a long cold winter? I hear we're in for snow showers tonight! Drats!! Not in my back lake!
Rabbit’s Tale & Other Rites of Passage, 1/19/14
Publishing in sight. Oh the joy! Much like the words of Meriwether Lewis, I'm excited to say that the journey that took me from "Rabbit's Tale" in 1996 to a complete anthology of collected stories, including family and nature tales, has been many years in the planning and creating. I'm pleased to announce that the book will very shortly be available for purchase. The manuscript was sent away tonight. A few follow-ups and an application for Library of Congress designation, and another of my literary babies will be out there in the world for students, parents, teachers, librarians and the general public to read and share. This book includes a charming pencil drawing for each of the 23 tales. I wanted to make the reader smile and anticipate where the picture comes in while they're reading each story.
I'm most proud of "The Castled Oak", a journal entry turned poignant story that was written just recently during one of my writers group meetings. It tells the story of an ancient tree and the progress which seals its fate. I do hope my readers find hope and harmony within these many-times humorous tales. I enjoyed documenting them for you!
Appreciating Talent, 11/06/13
I truly believe that everyone has talent! We all know how to do something, and do it well. Unlike the birds, we will never learn to fly unaided by mechanical means or a strong headwind and mounted airfoil. We do, however, possess the ability to share our talents for the good of others. So, whatever your talent, learn it well. Do a commendable job with it. Accept praise graciously, and never accept that others can criticize you simply because they don't share your gift. Be willing to learn from your mistakes. Be sincere in your praise of others. Be also kind in heart-felt criticism for the betterment of others. If we don't know what we do wrong, we can never correct it. Be always kind in the consideration of others' egos. Change comes slowly.
Change is facing that oncoming wave, no matter what the size, knowing you'll survive and be stronger for the resistance. And finally, never accept that your talent comes free for the taking. When we work for others' benefits, there is always a positive return in how we are perceived for that talent. May we all accept the gifts of others and appreciate them even if we do not see them in ourselves. Peace.
Realizing Our Gifts, 11/7/13
Every day we each face the challenges of getting up, plodding along in a forward motion, accomplishing some chore or project which will either maintain our life, make it better, or most importantly- create a better world for someone else. The efforts for this can be as simple as a shared smile or kind word. Monumental shifts are seldom effective within such a short span of hours. Raising a nation and changing the world take time and Herculean stamina! It also takes patience, cooperation and an acceptance of compromise. That said, if you can make a positive difference for yourself and another Earth inhabitant each day, then you are a part of the forward momentum that slowly progresses our lives to be both fulfilling and beneficial to the wider world. Peace and prosperity to us all. Earth Mother breathes her freshness upon each new dawn. Carpe Diem!!
Volunteering is Good for All of Us! 7/11/13
As a lifetime educator, I've often been asked to share my skills and knowledge. There are a few local places dear to my heart, so I give my time to them to make their programs and events richer while nurturing my own spirit. If you have a place that's close to you, that could use your assistance and would appreciate your skills, then give of yourself. The benefits are worth the effort!
For many years, Scotland Run Park in Gloucester County, NJ has provided year-round nature programs for the general public and special children's programming throughout the summer. All this is done under the competent and compassionate tutelage of L. Jill Taylor, Senior Park Naturalist. I've volunteered at Scotland Run Park since 1996, and have become a Docent Naturalist to keep the quality programming going at the park. Come; join us for the variety of nature-themed events. These programs help us to connect with the Earth, our planet and shared home. The program schedule can be found through the Gloucester County Parks & Recreation website: www.co.gloucester.nj.us. Share your email address to receive the monthly newsletter free to your inbox! They're also on Facebook!
Another long-time love of mine is writing. Since childhood, I've been scheming tales of furry critters, science fiction aliens and fan-fiction for my favorite television shows and movies. Now that I have a book published (See Earth Child: The E.D. Piper Chronicles), I'm spreading the word and guiding new authors and writer newcomers to the skills and benefits of quality written communication. If you have an interest in joining a writers group, just drop me an email: ladyhawkestorytelling@comcast.net. I am facilitator in two local writers groups and am a member of two others including the South Jersey Writers Group. I'm also an active participant in two statewide authors groups, both the New Jersey Authors Network and the South Jersey Women Authors. Get involved. Grow your skills. Communication is how we interact with one another and with every living thing on Earth. Never stop learning. Never stop growing.
Peace, LJK
The Simple Life, 8/21/12
In any given day, there are a thousand blessings to each of us. We need only be aware of them. Aware. It's a term Native American Indians use to explain how we learn and exist. Children are fostered to be aware of their surroundings, their senses, the opportunities to add to their knowledge and wisdom.
To fully be aware and to take note of every blessing, look to your heart. Pay attention to the wind, the scent of flowers, good food. Feel the warmth of a hug, the sound of childhood laughter. Smile and receive one in return. Think of what you can do to learn something new each day, to perhaps ease someone's suffering or contribute to the welfare of another. Be kind; be thoughtful. Take a stand against an injustice. Share a laugh. Hold a door. Pick up a piece of refuse and dispose of it properly. Such small actions need not expend money or even much time. But you might make the difference in someone else's day. And that tiny gesture can be a blessing to you both.
My husband made a wooden and rope swing for me. We hung it in the front yard on a tree limb for our 28th wedding anniversary. He is daily a source of strength, integrity and wisdom to me. We bless each other daily. By cooperation and mutual respect, we two share a life together. The swing is a simple pleasure, but through it, I will be allowed to accept all the blessings which come with it. Inscribed on the seat are the words: "For the Love of Freedom". May we all continue to thrive and be free, both within ourselves and with each other. Wado.
Earth Child: The E.D. Piper Chronicles Blog, 8/03/12
Earth Child is actually a 25 year old brain hiccup of mine. The impetus for this novel has been swirling around my cranium for that long without any direction, just a collection of dream-story recalls which I had documented faithfully in my dream journal. When I was recently developing a writer's workshop for dreams, I revisited those journals and discovered a storehouse of stories and themes which all melded into a singular, profound message: that of respect for the Earth and all its creatures. Thus the tapestry of Earth Child was begun, from the very first tentative strokes of needle and bits of thread to the added fancy stitches of fully developed episodes.
It's the first time I have ever constructed a novel using the first person. I recall having been assigned such a project back in my high school and college creative writing classes, but this was different. This was an entire young adult fantasy novel from someone who has embraced nature and science fiction writing from an early age. Needless to say, it was a methodical and uncertain start, with many questions and justifications along the way. I never wanted Earth Child to sound too preachy. I needed it to sound as though the observations were coming from a realistic character with genuine feelings of wonder and despair. Ehlora is a reluctant heroine, yet one who has great empathy for her fellow Earth citizens, no matter the size or form. I believe her ability to shape-shift enhances that empathy. I hope Ehlora feels as real to her readers as she does to me. I envy her extraordinary abilities while respecting her conviction. May we all live in balance and harmony with all of Earth Mother's lifeforms ...