Kathleen Bacus | How Kathy Got Her Muse Back

Comments

97 comments posted.

Re: Kathleen Bacus | How Kathy Got Her Muse Back

Kathy, like you I'm passionate about writing, but life sure gets in the way
sometimes, doesn't it? Just wanted to say thanks for lesson #2: Never give
up. I need that right now! Congrats on the release. ;)
(Traci Andrighetti 8:46am July 27, 2015)

Thanks, Traci! You know, somebody in the writing business told me early on
about the three 'ps' you need to be successful as a writer/author:

perseverance, persistence, and pluck. After a decade in the business, I
realize they were so right.
(Kathleen Bacus 8:52am July 27, 2015)

Thanks for sharing, Kathy! Triplets (and four children
in two years, wow!) that's impressive all by itself :)
Managing to write amongst all of that, even more
impressive.

So glad you found your muse again (sometimes they can be
very evasive, can't they? LOL) I'm passionate about
making people smile, whether that's through offering a
smile first, a hug, or through my stories - I love seeing
a genuine smile that lights up their eyes.

Congrats on release day!!
(Nicole Leiren 9:32am July 27, 2015)

Giving joy is a FABULOUS thing to be passionate about, Nicole, and it's a
gift meant to be shared. The other day my children and I were talking about
what true happiness meant to them and my daughter responded that doing
or saying something to/for someone that makes them smile makes her
happy. I'm hoping she got a bit of that from me. I've received letters and
email from readers who thanked me for getting them through a bleak time via
my books.That's the true payoff from writing--although the royalties are nice,
too. :)
(Kathleen Bacus 9:41am July 27, 2015)

Reading
(Marissa Yip-Young 9:51am July 27, 2015)

Awesome, Marissa! Let me know what you think when you're done! And
thanks!
(Kathleen Bacus 10:06am July 27, 2015)

I'm currently passionate about my knitting and crocheting. I've been doing it for over 30 years, however I had to stop for a few years due to an injury, when I injured my hand and arm, and had to give it up for a few years, which was hard to do - both mentally and physically. I was asked to volunteer my time and teach a class, which I am currently doing. It takes up a lot of time, but I love what I do. Reading is also a passion of mine, which I squeeze in to relax. There is a book in my head which I'd love to write. I'd love to write it in longhand, since writing it out by computer scares me, and due to the fact that I don't have the space, it can't be done. That is the one thing on my bucket list, and has been for years. Your latest book sounds like a great read for this time of year, and I'm looking forward to reading it, as well as the other books I can get my hands on in print. Congratulations on your book, and I'm sure it will do well!! I don't know how you did it raising triplets!!
(Peggy Roberson 10:27am July 27, 2015)

Thanks, Peggy! So sorry that the injury kept you from your knitting and
crocheting. :( I know how difficult it is to not be able to continue doing
something you're passionate about. I'm a horse nut, but haven't had horses
for some time. (I kept my tack just in case I ever start a new herd!) I love your
idea of diverting your passion into teaching! That's fabulous!
(Kathleen Bacus 11:09am July 27, 2015)

Kathy ive been reading your Calamity Jayne books since I found book 1 and ive never turned back. I love Tressa so much. I love it when Joltn Joe tears her dresses off during party scenes I just burst out laughing. Thank you for Writing these books
(Belinda Clemons 11:44am July 27, 2015)

Hi, Belinda! I'm so glad you are enjoying the series! I'm pretty fond of Tressa
Jayne, too. :) And I totally love it when readers tell me they books have them
laughing out loud. That makes my day! Thanks so much!
(Kathleen Bacus 11:46am July 27, 2015)

I'm so glad you found that muse! This is one of my favorite series. Guaranteed for lots of laughs :)
(Susan Cambra 12:06pm July 27, 2015)

Hi Kathy!! I love your Tressa Jayne books. They are so fun and quirky. Another thing I love about them ids that Tressa is REAL. She reminds me of me in the way of Murphy's Law!! What can go wrong....will. As far as my passions go.... well, I do have a passion for reading and have had it since I was a child. I am so glad I never lost it. Anything else, well I am at a crossroads right now. Not sure what I want to do or where I want to be, and not quite sure how to figure it out.
Anyway, I just got my Calamity Jayne #8 and I am looking forward to reading it.
I am very glad you reconnected with your muse and look forward to the coming Calamity Jayne books!!

CONGRATULATIONS on your release :o)
(Michelle McGarvey 12:19pm July 27, 2015)

Ms. Muse can be quite temperamental at times, Susan. :) Thanks for
stopping by! I really appreciate it!
(Kathleen Bacus 12:21pm July 27, 2015)

Glad you found your muse! Congrats on the release!
(David D 12:28pm July 27, 2015)

Now that I'm in my sixties, I find I've become more
passionate about life in general. Reaching out,
travelling, new experiences all seem to have become more
intense.
(Deb Philippon 12:38pm July 27, 2015)

Don't put me down for the giveaway, Kat, LOVE the post. You've
been through a lot and came through like a champ!
(Leslie Langtry 12:44pm July 27, 2015)

Reading and drawing are passions of mine! Congrats on your release!
(Colleen Conklin 12:49pm July 27, 2015)

So there is still hope for me to get a few of my stories published after reading your start in writing!Hopefully before I turn 65! Giving myself 10 years before I give up.
(Beth Blumenfeld 12:53pm July 27, 2015)

Teaching and writing are both passions of mine. I, too, took time off from
my profession for my kiddos, whom I am also passionate about!! Not sure I
would have survived triplets!!! When do you sleep?? I am a huge fan of
your work and thrilled to be writing alongside you at GHP. Congrats on
release day! Here's to many more!
(Tracy Comstock 12:58pm July 27, 2015)

I have recently started working again after being a stay at
home mum for the past 9 years. So this is what I am passionate
about at the moment. To the point that I am now getting my
driving licence to further my career.
P.S. I loved the book. It was amazing. Don't take too long
with the next one.
(Carrie Cowley 1:00pm July 27, 2015)

Thanks, David! It sure feels good to be back in the writing saddle again! :)
(Kathleen Bacus 1:04pm July 27, 2015)

I hear you about those crossroads, Michelle. They can be scary, but they can
also be an opportunity to discover something new and exciting! Good look
with yours! I hope you enjoy Calamity Caper #8! After 8 books, Tressa Jayne
is like an old friend. ;)
(Kathleen Bacus 1:10pm July 27, 2015)

That is so true, Deb. As we grow older, I think we place value on things we
might have overlooked when we were younger.
(Kathleen Bacus 1:11pm July 27, 2015)

Thanks, Leslie! I must admit I've had to pull up my bootstraps a time or two.
;)
(Kathleen Bacus 1:13pm July 27, 2015)

Thanks, Colleen! I used to paint with oils many years ago but haven't had a
chance to do that in some time.
(Kathleen Bacus 1:14pm July 27, 2015)

Never, ever give up on your passion for writing, Beth. I must admit there was
a time or two when I was discouraged and debated giving it up, but I'm so
glad I didn't. I have so many stories in my head, I'll never have time to tell
them all.
(Kathleen Bacus 1:16pm July 27, 2015)

Right now, I'm trying to be passionate about eating healthy foods 24/7. It
isn't easy when I see a beautiful red velvet cupcake or a plate of crispy
French fries! I love to read, sew, knit, tat, play games, and play piano and
dulcimer.
(Kay Ezzell 1:17pm July 27, 2015)

Thankfully, those triplets have graduated from college now, Tracy, but it sure
was hectic for many years. And I totally feel blessed to be among the
awesome authors and working with the incredible staff at GHP.
(Kathleen Bacus 1:18pm July 27, 2015)

Congratulations on the new job, Carrie, and best of luck! And I'm working on
book #9 now. It's gonna be SO much fun to write. :) So glad you enjoyed the
book!
(Kathleen Bacus 1:21pm July 27, 2015)

I am passionate about my 4 grandchildren who keep me busy and
happy. I am passionate about my great health which I hope
remains ideal after a serious diagnosis and recovery.
(Sharon Berger 1:23pm July 27, 2015)

Tell me about it, Kay. I went gluten-free almost two years ago and it's tough
not being able to enjoy those sweets I love. (Hey, I'm a former cop. I lived for
doughnuts!) And WOW! You have tons of great activities to be passionate
about. That's outstanding!
(Kathleen Bacus 1:23pm July 27, 2015)

Family is at the top of my list, too, Sharon! And after a family member had a
serious illness, good health is something I don't take for granted either. Hope
your health remains stellar!
(Kathleen Bacus 1:25pm July 27, 2015)

I do not like leaving comments but I love amazon
(Jeanette Schroeder 1:40pm July 27, 2015)

:) Jeanette!
(Kathleen Bacus 2:06pm July 27, 2015)

One of my favorite series. Truly original story lines. Love
the balance of humor and suspense. And I feel like I
personally know all the characters. Please keep writing them!
(Laura Goodson 2:29pm July 27, 2015)

Thank you, Laura! I think that's why I enjoy writing these books so much.
They feel like family!
(Kathleen Bacus 2:35pm July 27, 2015)

Congrats, Kathleen!!! I've always loved your books.
CC
(Christie Craig 3:07pm July 27, 2015)

Ahh. Thank you, Christie! The feeling is totally mutual!
(Kathleen Bacus 3:12pm July 27, 2015)

My second chance was that I was born with a hole in my heart, but by the time I was 4.5 years old it had healed on its own. At 56 years of age now, I play competitive badminton 5 nights per week and feel wonderful!
(Elaine Seymour 4:56pm July 27, 2015)

That definitely qualifies as a second chance, Elaine. I haven't played
badminton in years. I always enjoyed it.
(Kathleen Bacus 5:15pm July 27, 2015)

I am passionate about dog rescue. My husband & I are currently volunteers with the Great Dane Rescue of North TX & we have 5 rescue dogs. Since we travel the country every 2 years due to the Navy we've got to volunteer with lots of different rescues over the past 17 years & we love it :)
(Liz Digman 6:52pm July 27, 2015)

You have a very noble passion, Liz. And 17 years of volunteering! That is
amazing! I can't wait until I'm home enough to adopt a rescue pet--or two!
(Kathleen Bacus 7:06pm July 27, 2015)

my most recent passion has been redoing the house I inherited
-that's been both challenging & frustrating, but ultimately
rewarding. Now that is winding down, so I need to find
another focus - besides reading!
(Diane Sallans 8:47pm July 27, 2015)

DIY has been an ongoing passion of mine, Diane, out of necessity. I'm also
redoing an older house. I'm down to the kitchen left to do and then I'll be
pretty much done.
(Kathleen Bacus 8:52pm July 27, 2015)

I'm passionate about music and I have been singing for 48 years.
I've made a cd of my music which was the last thing on my bucket
list.
(Nancy Luebke 9:33pm July 27, 2015)

I love music, Nancy, however my singing is more along the lines of "joyful
noise." I have always admired those who are able to sing and produce
beautiful music. I'm glad you were able to realize a special item on your
bucket list.
(Kathleen Bacus 10:07pm July 27, 2015)

I'm passionate about my recovery from breast cancer. My journey hasn't been easy or quick; but I'm not a "victim". My goal is to see my 10 grandchildren grow up.
(Joanne Hicks 10:21pm July 27, 2015)

Family can be a great motivator when you're battling something like cancer,
Joanne. Wishing you healing and success with your recovery!
(Kathleen Bacus 10:51pm July 27, 2015)

I am passionate about cooking and travel. Wish I could be
Anthony Bourdain. Have accomplished much traveling and am not
playing lots with the cooking. Had been hampered by
children's picky palates for a time but they seem to be more
adventurous now.
(G. Bisbjerg 10:58pm July 27, 2015)

Traveling is something I haven't really had time to do, but I'm looking forward
to doing more when my schedule is a bit less hectic. As far as cooking goes,
it's never been a passion of mine but I did have four children who enjoyed
being fed regularly so I acquired just enough culinary knowledge to keep
them happily fed. ;)
(Kathleen Bacus 11:35pm July 27, 2015)

I am passionate about making my kids happy with lots of love
and fun stuff to do. I can't wait to read this book. Thank
you for the chance.
[email protected]
(Candace Knight 12:13pm July 28, 2015)

I am now retired public school teacher. I graduated college in
1974. I marred my husband in 1977. He had 4 children from a
previous marriage. They ranged in age from 14 to 5. He had
full custody so I became an instant mom. Going back to school
did not become a possibility until 200 when our last child
graduated from high school. By having distance learning a
possibility from Auburn University, I was able to get my MEd.
That and my National Board teacher certification are my career
accomplishments. My bucket lists is to visit the last 6 US
ststes.
[email protected]
(Betty Jo English 12:13pm July 28, 2015)

Congratulations on your job. The best thing I've ever
accomplished is my son. As for new goals, I'd love to get a
new job, and soon.
(Christina Riggs 1:19am July 28, 2015)

I can't make a living at my passion (newspaper reporting)
or I'd still be doing it. But I've been seduced by good
treatment, a decent living wage, benefits and regular
days off. I have an elderly dog to keep in medication,
and a mortgage to make. I had read the first six
Calamity Jayne books and was sad when I couldn't find
more. So glad to see you've been able to continue. Know
what I'll be buying soon - more of your books!
(Denise Zendel 7:25am July 28, 2015)

Good for you, Candace! Since I have triplets, I always say my children give
me triple the joy. Okay, and there's always the "pain" in triplicate, too.
Providing a loving and nurturing upbringing is something every parent should
be passionate about. Sadly, that is not always the case.
(Kathleen Bacus 7:41am July 28, 2015)

Congratulations to you, too, Betty. I also went back to college later in life and
got a degree in Criminal Justice alongside kids nearly half my age so I know
how tough that is. You can be proud of that accomplishment.
(Kathleen Bacus 7:43am July 28, 2015)

You have a job, Christina! It's called "parenthood!" ;) Good luck finding the
perfect position soon!
(Kathleen Bacus 7:44am July 28, 2015)

I certainly understand the security aspect of a regular day job, Denise. I'll be
working mine for some time. Thankfully, I enjoy it a lot and work with super
officers and staff. If you've read the first six books, you still have Books 7
and 8 to read! I'm currently working on number 9 now.
(Kathleen Bacus 7:48am July 28, 2015)

First, I loved reading the comments.
I am passionate about my family and also reading. I have
traveled the world and now can continue with reading. I had 5
kids in 6 1/2 years and we just do it don't we?
I am getting your books soon as I need some light reading and
laughs. Great interview.
(Leona Olson 8:38am July 28, 2015)

I'm passionate about simply living...I am a breast cancer survivor and one of those people who truly believed it could never happen to me. I mean I had no "risk factors" (I put that in parenthesis because we tend to think it must be something we did to ourselves or we were just born into the wrong family), ate right and exercised pretty regularly. What I learned is that life is precious, I have wonderful caring and supportive friends and not to put off things you really want to do. You also want to tell people often and specifically that they are important to you and put it in writing. I now try to send at least three cards a week to people in my life.
(Flora Presley 8:45am July 28, 2015)

Wow! I thought I was stretching it with four kids in two years, Leona! I wish I
had been able to travel more with the kids when they were young, but as a
divorced mum, it was extremely difficult to do. I'm hoping to make up for it
now and take some trips with the grown kids.
(Kathleen Bacus 10:48am July 28, 2015)

That is so inspiring, Flora. I'm sure the recipients of your cards and upbeat
approach to life are very thankful for your time and outreach.
(Kathleen Bacus 10:49am July 28, 2015)

I love music and gymnastics. And agree it is best to write about what you love.
(Pam Howell 11:55am July 28, 2015)

Calamity Jayne sounds great!
(Beth Tilley 1:21pm July 28, 2015)

Gymnastics? How cool, Pam! And yes. It's much easier to write when you
write what you love!
(Kathleen Bacus 1:32pm July 28, 2015)

It's sure fun as heck to write, Beth! Hehe.
(Kathleen Bacus 1:32pm July 28, 2015)

I am so glad you are continuing the Calamity Jayne series! I read the first 6
books back-to-back a few years ago and so hoped the series would
continue. . Now I'm going to go back and re-read them so I can jump into
books 7 & 8. I don't think I've ever laughed out loud so much while reading
a series. I'm a big fan and I appreciate your storytelling and humor! My
passion is teaching. After taking a 5 yr break from it, I recently started
teaching ESL at my local library and the experience has revived my joy for
the profession.
(Barbara Ann Rs 3:08pm July 28, 2015)

You're lucky to have rediscovered the joy in teaching, Barbara Ann! I was
ecstatic when, after such a long hiatus, I was able to revive my writing career
and feel the same level of joy and energy I'd felt before. And thanks so much
for the kind words. I hope you enjoy books 7 & 8 in the series, as well.
(Kathleen Bacus 3:55pm July 28, 2015)

This sounds great, I'd love to read it.
(Wilma Frana 4:40pm July 28, 2015)

Reading is obviously a passion of mine! I had not been
able to concentrate long enough to read more than a page
at time for over ten years. Using a new technique called
"mindfulness" I have finally gotten that ability back.
In 2014 I read 1 book. It took a lot of reading and re-
reading to finish that book because of my lack of
concentration. This year I am happy to say I have read
over 75 books already!!! Now that I can read again I
cannot stop! My favorite genre is the cozy mystery,
which is right in line with what you write.

Congrats on you new book release!! I look forward to
reading your books soon.
(LaCinda Jameson 4:58pm July 28, 2015)

Do you like reading all these comments?
(Jeri Dickinson 5:27pm July 28, 2015)

Thanks, Wilma!
(Kathleen Bacus 7:38pm July 28, 2015)

That is really an accomplishment, Lucinda, and obviously took a lot of hard
work and effort on your park. Good for you! I don't know what I'd do if I
couldn't read. I usually have 2-3 books that I'm reading at the same time:
fiction and non-fiction. Thanks for the new release good wishes!
(Kathleen Bacus 7:41pm July 28, 2015)

I do enjoy reading posted comments, Jeri. People are fascinating and
everyone has a unique story--which is always of interest to writers.
(Kathleen Bacus 7:43pm July 28, 2015)

I love a series with a sense of humor so I'll be trying this one. Maybe not the new book though. I hate gnomes. :)
(Mary Songer 8:01pm July 28, 2015)

Laughter is therapeutic for sure, Mary! And sorry about the gnome. I suspect
they are much like clowns. People either love 'em or hate 'em. :)
(Kathleen Bacus 8:20pm July 28, 2015)

I'm passionate about my family and friends. And I love to laugh and make others laugh, which is why this book interests me! My only current goal is to take care of my health issues so that I can find a way to Florida to visit my daughter, son-in-law, and two grandchildren.
(Pamela Dickson 8:54pm July 28, 2015)

reading and traveling now that i have retired
(Debbi Shaw 10:11pm July 28, 2015)

My two goals were to have a grandchild (which I achieved by pestering my
son & DIL to sure craziness) and to retire. And retire I did, in September
2014! What bliss! (On both achieved goals). :-)
(Connie Williamson 12:54pm July 29, 2015)

I love LIFE. The little everyday things , my friends and family I am so thankful for. I have so much fun with my grandkids and watching them grow . They are my delight . I love to laugh and dance and cry all in a day. Life is short so I try to make the most of my day . Thanks for this giveaway .
(Joan Thrasher 9:15am July 29, 2015)

I am passionate about reading and love bringing the joy of reading to my students in the library.
(Bonnie H 10:40am July 29, 2015)

That's hard when your family is far away, Pamela. Thank goodness we can
keeping touch via the internet in between visits.
(Kathleen Bacus 12:41pm July 29, 2015)

I'm thinking I'll be passionate about retirement when I get there, Debbi!
(Kathleen Bacus 12:42pm July 29, 2015)

Thanks, Elaine!
(Kathleen Bacus 12:42pm July 29, 2015)

Congratulations on your grandchild AND your retirement, Connie!
(Kathleen Bacus 12:43pm July 29, 2015)

I think it's important to be grateful for the things (and people!) in our lives
that make each day special, too, Joan.
(Kathleen Bacus 12:45pm July 29, 2015)

LOVE those libraries, Bonnie!
(Kathleen Bacus 12:51pm July 29, 2015)

Thank You for the chance to win such a great prize
(Rebecca Stephen 12:55pm July 29, 2015)

I'm passionate about horses and my son and grandchildren.
I'm trying to get up the nerve to attempt writing an
historical (perhaps, hysterical) novel. I promise myself,
"Some day!"
(Irene Menge 4:20pm July 29, 2015)

I'm passionate about my 15 month old granddaughter. i love to
make quilts. As for my bucket list I would love to go to
Scotland, my great grandfather was born there.
(Vicki Clevinger 8:48pm July 29, 2015)

i am passionate about lots of things. a few are that i
collect gemstones, both loose and in antique jewelry. i
am also an unpublished writer. i am still in the stage of
learning my writing craft but hope to be published
someday. :)

tammy ramey
[email protected]
(Tammy Ramey 1:57pm July 30, 2015)

I enjoy reading, but at the stage of my life (mid 80's), I'm passionate about helping my granddaughters complete their college education.
(Anna Speed 3:00pm July 30, 2015)

Congratulations on release day!
(Racquelle Robinson 5:36pm July 30, 2015)

Worked hard, but finally retired. Now time to take to do things I had to pass up before.
(Vera Wilson 6:26pm July 30, 2015)

My bucket list, travel and learn oil painting. I draw and can do water colors , but I want to do oil painting.
(Deb Pelletier 9:30pm July 30, 2015)

I am passionate about reading especially mysteries. I have
read every single one of this series and absolutely love
Calamity Jayne She is awesome I wish she was my best friend.
On my bucket list is to travel to London I have achieved
most of my bucket list.
(Denise Austin 10:20pm July 30, 2015)

I am passionate about teaching my puppy how to be civilized
right now. I also knit, and love, love, love to read!
(Charlene Fraley 11:22pm July 30, 2015)

Registered users may leave comments.
Log in or register now!