HC: You have many other educational ideas in works. Can you explain some of them to us?

Joan: Regarding those other educational ideas? Do you have a couple days, Hope? ;) I'm so grateful for Internet and its growing technology. This technological revolution enables me to communicate with Parents worldwide. It seems a miracle when I note EP goes to subscribers on every continent, to places I have only read about, to Parents who trust me and have become my friends. Because web tools improve daily, I have new ways to reach out to families. I can read Positive stories to children, sing Positive songs, provide pep talks for Parents -- all by clicking on a little "PLAY" button. Amazing!

There will be a section on Parenting Network to share positive essays, too. I also want to contact schools through their parent organizations.

HC: I just finished reading CHILLED RUN. It was quite a unique story - futuristic, sci-fi, a little romance, with an educational message on world peace and diversity. Tell us how this tale came to be and how will this book be available?

CHILLED RUN was a Gift of Hope. The entire story came to me in a dream. Starting that very morning, I wrote nonstop for 3 ½ weeks. (One does not ask Muse to wait! :) The entire experience seemed meant to be; an important work to benefit Children.

Even title is a conscious play on word: CHILLED RUN is name of prison in a frozen desolate wasteland. After manuscript was complete I knew story should have music. A book published electronically - an Ebook - may contain music, graphics, even streaming video. But I had no love song. That night as I fell asleep I "requested" my melody. When I awoke following morning, I promise you, I was humming Mystic Lovesong. Lyrics were an unexpected plus.

Because I feel so strongly about CHILLED RUN fifty percent of my earnings on sales will go to Crisis Nursery, a wondrous organization where out-of-control parents can bring their children until they can safely care for them again. Only God knows how many young lives have been saved with their help. CHILLED RUN can be purchased in several formats for US $7.95 at my web site: http://www.joanbramsch.com

HC: You have aspirations to be a radio talk show host, a thought that would frighten many of us. Tell us your plans.

Joan: Yes, I'll have a radio talk show, but it will be a show with a twist - I'll broadcast on Internet! It's true, Hope, I'll have my own radio station. A few years ago this was beyond belief. Amazing 21st Century technology. In meantime, for next six months at least, I'll be doing traditional radio talk shows across nation, entertaining listeners with true stories about raising a large family from my ebook - YOU KIDS JUST WAIT TILL I GET OVER BEING PREGNANT... AM I GOING TO STRAIGHTEN YOU OUT!

HC: Back to writing, what are your immediate writing goals? And long term goals?

Joan: My immediate writing plan is to continue expanding my web site, The International Parenting Network, to better serve Parents. In addition I have a contemporary romance and a mainstream novel in final editing stage.

Long term? For Families, I have six file drawers filled with completed work, partials and new ideas, stories and research. For adult readers there are four completed manuscripts and at least two dozen partials waiting for me. I figure ten years of steady work might put a dent in inventory.

HC: Give us a typical writing day in life of Joan Bramsch.

Joan: I awaken at 6 a.m., have an energy drink, then enjoy my 5-mile run. After showering and a cool down I meditate and do tai chi for one hour. Munching on fresh fruit and a whole grain muffin I begin outlining my day's writing which will last for at least four hours, but never more than twelve.

POP!!! Oops, there's that recurring dream again. Sorry. ;)

In actuality, family comes first and it is my honor to provide full-time care for my Bill, who has been dealing with serious health challenges for many years. Therefore, I write when I'm able - an hour, sometimes two hours at a time. Much of my serious writing is done late at night when house is quiet and all my other jobs are complete for another day.

HC: And finally, give some advice to struggling writers out there trying to earn a living at their passion.

A writer has to know where to find work. Your newsletter informs writers about opportunities in field. There are other newsletters that provide publishing needs. Then I can list three suggestions.

#1 - Be fearless. Send out your work. A thick skin is an absolute necessity if you would be a working writer because every word you submit is judged subjectively by another person.

#2 - Expect to be paid for your best work. Unless you gain something in a win-win barter, don't give your work away just to see your name in print. Neither sell it for two cents a click. Do you know how many clicks it takes to equal $25 and your first check? A lot!

#3 - If writing truly is your passion, you can repeat after me: I will never, never, never, ever give up!

Thanks, Hope, for this opportunity to visit with you and your readers. Please invite them to come visit me at http://www.joanbramsch.com

I love company! :)

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