Day by Day

Wow, I didn’t realize how long it had been since I made any updates. Life has changed a lot since my last few updates, and that life has been….well, incredible.

First, the “story” that began last July on the road trip to Colorado has continued to grow. The possibilities are endless and I am happier than I’ve ever been. Sometimes things just seem right. The more time we spend together the more exited I am, the happier I seem to get.

This relationship has also led to me starting to work more and more on Hand of Justice. Her support has helped focus me in on the details and advancement of the story. Plus, while real estate is slower, I’ve had a lot more time to focus on the research and writing of the novel. I try and focus at minimum two days a week on the creative side. Some weeks go better than others, but I feel more and more in a groove. The word count – while far from where I hoped it would be at this point – is finally starting to creep up. The plot is developing and I’m finding out who each character is and what role they play in the story.

I’m excited to see how things keep moving and where the next chapter begins. Something tells me it’s going to be unbelievable………..

Until next time,

~T.S.

Voices in My Head

I’m not a conversationalist. I prefer short and sweet discussions or better yet, listening to others share. So trying to write dialog has been killing me. It comes out short and unnatural. Definitely not a good way for a writer to progress.

I’ve listened a lot to conversations on the street. How people talk quietly with each other. How they get excited. How their voices change and their bodies move. But translating that into words on a page has been more challenging.

So last week as I was struggling with how to push forward with the conversations of my characters, I decided to use actors I’ve connected with in movies. Wow. Great idea!

Though I still am having a hard time coming up with the right words to put in their thoughts and verbalizations, I’m finding it easier to hear how they would talk with each other. Kind of like voices in my head – I hear them talking to each other. Even better, as many actors are type cast, picking an actor/actress for each of my characters has made it easier to write about how they walk, act, even decisions they’d make.

Score one for the voices in my head!

Until next time,

~T.S.

A New Story, An Unwritten Ending

I’m not by nature an emotional person. Every personality test I’ve ever taken has me at 99% on the facts, 1% on emotions. I don’t care about details. I don’t care for planning. But I do have a need to analyze. Everything. To death….I’m getting better, and now I’m even more convinced of the power of irrational decisions!

Why? I’m glad you asked.

A few weeks ago, through some small twists of fate and a dash of chance, a friend from many years ago gave me a call to talk. We have a shared history, similar life experiences. We’ve been through a lot in our separate lives. It was nice catching up with her but when we said our goodbye’s and hung up the phone, I figured that was it.

I was wrong.

A few weeks later we began texting back and forth. I can’t recall who texted first, or why. Something small I’m sure. But along the way, a spark started. Nothing big, just a little one. As the texts progressed, that spark started spinning in my mind. What was this I was feeling? Surely not the heart I thought I’d beaten down…

Maybe?

Each day, each text, I thought more and more about what ifs. But almost immediately, I’d dismiss those thoughts. I mean really, she lived several states away! I was being irrational. Egad, perhaps even emotional. I should stop. Besides, she probably didn’t feel the same spark of curiosity, right? I was just reading what I wanted into the text messages right?

But….

Work had been pretty slow. I did have some free time on my hands.

Maybe?

Time to stop being rational. Stop being analytical. Before I thought about what I was doing, I was planning a bike trip to see her. Within the next few days. And she hadn’t said no. In fact, she seemed excited! But probably just glad to see an old friend right?

The next couple days dragged along, the details of the trip tweaked a little, work suddenly got ridiculously busy, but now I was determined to go. I had to know what if…

Finally it was time to leave. An added bonus was that Dad was able to come for part of the trip and we were making a motorcycle road trip out of it. This was getting better! A good sign right?

The first part of the trip was incredible. Dad and I saw amazing country. We toured back roads and rugged mountains. And as each mile clicked, we got closer to where my true destination lay. The answers to my questions were just over the last mountain range.

What if…

Before I knew it, we’d clicked off almost 800 miles and it was time for Dad to split off on his own path. It hit me…In just a few hours the what ifs may be answered. But what if I was wrong? I hadn’t seen her in 10+ years. The analyzing started zipping through my mind as I leaned the bike around each corner. What if she thought I was an idiot? What had those 10 years done to her? What if I was wrong to come? Then suddenly I was at her front door.

Butterflies the size of Alaska began raging war in my stomach. A group of sailors tied my guts into knots.

I rang the bell…

She opened the door, and my emotions beat back the fear with nuclear force. She was stunning. She was happy to see me! We hugged…It felt right!

More spark?

The next few days flew by. We rode through the mountains. We shared a ride in the rain. We went to coffee. We talked about our pasts. We shared stories. We shared our hurt. We shared our joys. The spark grew.

Then without warning, it was the last night.

What if…

We talked relationships. We talked of challenges to relationships. We talked of what was next, of what could be. We chose to move forward. To take the next steps.

To find the answers to what if.

The next day I pointed the handlebars back home. My heart was heavy as I watched her disappear in my mirror, but my hopes were high. Possibilities seemed endless.

It was hard to believe this fact pounding, emotion fearing guy had just clicked off well over 2,000 miles to see a girl. A girl he hadn’t seen in 10 years. All because of emotions; because of hope; because of a possibility.

Today, I’m excited about where things can go. I’m still not sure how the story will be written. Is it a chapter, or a book? It’s sure to have plot twists. Its characters face hurdles. But it’s certainly not out of ink. I believe in the power of a spark. I believe in the power of emotions. I believe in the power of possibilities.

The story is just beginning. I can’t wait to see where it goes.

~T.S.

8 Years Later: My life after cancer

Eight years ago my life perspective changed. A lot. Facing death will do that to you….And not in a cool way, like jumping from a plane or wrestling with alligators.

It was 8 years ago this month my doc broke the news I had testicular cancer. Not exactly what I expected at 26. I was the picture of health. Hell, I’d never even been to the hospital save for a few stitches in high school.

So to hear that cancer had taken over my body was a shock. I was invincible, how had death come knocking at my door? It was unexpected and I didn’t completely understand when I first heard him use that big “C” word. I approached it in typical “guy” fashion – I just wanted to know how to fix it. Of course, when he told me the fix, it became a little more frightening. I never cared much for knives…….

After the surgery, I spent the next 5 years getting my blood drawn and tested every week, enduring monthly CT scans, and having the docs make me blush once a month. But it was worth it, because today, I can say I survived thanks to their efforts. There was a lot more that was involved too, but I’ll be honest, I don’t want to share all yet.

What I do want to share is that over the last 8 years, I’ve changed quite a bit. For example, I really don’t like hospitals – you’d be surprised what they’ll take if you let them give you some happy juice! But seriously, cancer did make me pause a bit and rethink where I was going with my life. I know that sound cliché, but you find that clichés have a bit of truth behind them….That’s why they’re used so often.

It wasn’t necessarily immediate, but after being diagnosed and then during the healing process, I realized that climbing the corporate ladder faster than the bloke next door wasn’t as important as spending time with my family and friends. I realized that what is important is the smell of my kids’ hair after a bath. The cool mountain air of a camping trip. The sounds of an owl calling in the night. The time spent with family around the dinner table.

Trust me, in 5 years no one will remember you putting in the 80 hours each week at the office to finish some rush project. But I guarantee that your kids/family will remember the memories you build with them for a lifetime.

Today, I live for the memories I am creating. Pointing my BMW’s handlebars through the twisting corners of the Sierra Nevadas with my cousin and his wife. Motorcycle trips with my folks to parts unexplored. Taking the kids to a movie or even just a bicycle ride around the neighborhood.

I’m not saying I wouldn’t have done all this if I hadn’t seen death a little closer than I wanted. But I do think that I’ve paid a little more attention to the actual experience and set a little more of my time aside for the memories.

Marc Warnke, a good friend and mentor wrote in his book that love is spelled T-I-M-E. Well, thanks to amazing advances in medicine, the prayers of family and friends, a God who felt I needed a little more time on earth, and my own refusal to quit, I have a little more love to share.

To everyone who has made a difference in my life, who has supported me at every step, who has made my experiences possible: Thank you.

Until next time,

~T.S. Franklin

Dear 2010: Bring it!

Typically I scoff at the people who make New Years resolutions – I mean really, have you met many people who have stuck w/ their resolution for more than a few weeks? Think I’m wrong? Go check out the gym parking lot today, then again in 3-4 weeks. I’ll bet you a cup of coffee it’s dropped by a third if not more!

But on the other hand, there are times in our life we need to accomplish something new or different, and what better time than right now to do that? So instead of mocking the masses (okay, I’m still going to do that), I’m going to set 2 major goals this year: 1) Make my real estate business successful, and 2) Have a 1st draft completed of my novel. Obviously, these are pretty broad, but the sweet part is that I can measure the success of each as well as add simple tasks that will give me a way to hold myself accountable. For example, for the real estate business, I need to have at least 24 transactions this year to survive, but my personal goal is 36. On the novel, I need to get my lazy ass in front of the computer more often – and not just for Twitter/Facebook – and slam out some work!

My two goals are pretty simple, but both are life changing if accomplished which is why I am so focused on them right now. Obviously, the success of my real estate gig means I can pay the bills, fill the kitchen cupboards, and (if the right house sells) pick up the new motorcycle (it will be red by the way). But even more than that, it proves to me and others that I can do it on my own; I can take a challenge and win. Completing the book will also change my life – even if it doesn’t imediately see the light of a publishing house – because I will have proven to myself it was more than just a dream, it was something that was in me, perhaps even what I was meant to do. And if the stars align, maybe some day it will get picked up – even if I have to write a few more first! By the way, did you know that J.K. Rowling’s novels about Harry Potter were turned down by major publishers? Now look where she is…

So 2010, you’re going to be mine. I’m gonna kick your ass…..

~T.S. Franklin

What Have I Done?

You read the stories in the papers every day: Unemployment numbers are on the rise, the economy is scary, people are losing their homes….So who in their right mind would leave a solid job with benefits and a bi-weekly paycheck? Well I just did….

For the first time since I graduated colege in the late 90′s, I will be without a regular paycheck. And though I’m scared out of my mind, I couldn’t be more excited! Why? Because for the first time, I can be my own person, make my own schedule, set my own hours, shoot, I can even make every day casual day!! Of course, that may mean 70 hours a week and eating beans and rice for a while, but what I do will be my choice, my creation.

So what am I doing? Well, technically this is the diary of a writer, but since my novel is still in it’s infancy, I am not relying on that – YET! While the book continues to progress, I have become a licensed Real Estate Agent. “What?!!! Haven’t you heard about the housing crisis,” you ask? Well, as a matter of fact, I did, but I don’t believe in following the fear of the masses. I will blaze my own trail. I will be successful in ANY economy.

So while I do my best to bleed some ink onto the novel’s pages, I’ll be looking to sell you a home. Keep in touch with me on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, email (travis at tsfranklin dot com), or even the old fashioned telephone (208-870-2459). And someday, when I’m on the New York Times Best Seller list, you’ll tell all your friends “I once bought a house from that guy.”

~T.S. Franklin

Twitter FollowFriday’s

On Twitter, FollowFridays have become a bit of a mess. For you non-tweeters, FollowFridays are how many of us suggest to our Twitter friends other people we follow. But as you’re limited to 140 characters, you don’t have much chance to explain why, and so it has turned into a little bit of a cluster fu…Well a big mess.

Anyway, Jen Harris, Boise’s social media genius pointed out that a blog is a great way to explain some of your suggestions in a more enlightening manner. Obviously, I can’t suggest all of my favorites in one blog post, but here are a few executives that I enjoy following: So here goes my #followfriday suggestions:

@JenHarris09 – I think Jen gets a #followfriday nod every time from someone, but hey, there’s a reason! Not only a great person, Jen has an exceptional knowledge of social media and how to best use it. Ping her to find out how she can help you or your team take advantage of this technology! (www.caffeinatedmarketing.com)

@MichaelHyatt – Michael is the CEO of Thomas James Publishing and arguably the most positive CEO I’ve encountered. His use of the social media space – specifically Twitter and blogging – is very powerful. He reminds me of Dan Stevens – former CEO of Home Federal Bank in Idaho and the greatest person I’ve ever had the opportunity to work for. Humility, knowledgeable, kind, the adjectives can go on but are best summed up by the simple word: Leader. (www.MichaelHyatt.com)

@hwy12 – Mark Solon is a partner in the Idaho venture capital group Highway 12 Ventures. Not only does he make me chuckle with smart ass remarks and snide comments, but he also shares some extremely valuable insights into leadership and entrepreneurism through both tweets and blogs. Plus, his company offers a unique (in my opinion) take on how they manage their CEOs and companies. (www.highway12ventures.com)

@schlanghole – Tony Schlangen of Wirestone provides an excellent example of how an ad agency executive makes his company successful. He is actively involved in the community, very supportive of his team, and – at least from what I see – seems to have created a very open culture within their agency. (www.wirestone.com)

@jamiecooper – Jamie runs my favorite Boise ad agency. I’ll be honest – I’m biased after having worked with Drake Cooper since coming to Boise. Jamie is very involved in the Boise community, active outdoors, and a dedicated family man. These factors, along with his positive attitude really seem to make Drake Cooper shine. Just check out their work! (www.drakecooper.com)

Finally, though I’ve certainly not made even a dent in all the exceptional friends and people I enjoy following on Twitter, @Idaho_Airships for my last #followfriday – Leo Geis has made an amazing name for himself in the aerial photography business. His clients include major corporations like Walt Disney, the NFL, and the Olympics! But even though he spends much of his time in the air, he is one of the most down to earth guys I’ve met. One tweet will be an awesome shot he’s taken, the next a hilarious jab at someone. (www.idahoairships.com)

Alright, that’s my list for this week. I know I’ve left off some amazing friends/executives, but hey, we’ve got a lot of Fridays left

Until next time,
~T.S. Franklin

Short Stories

I’ve played around for quite a while with several short story options – from pirates to stories of my youth to simply random tales. But I haven’t really spent a lot of time sharing them. But short stories are a great way to have a little fun and step away from the darkness of the novel. They also offer my mind some good writing exercises. For the next few months I’m going to try and post at least 1 or 2 short stories each week. Some may stretch over a few episodes, others just a few quick paragraphs of fun. I’ll keep you all posted!

Until next time,

~T.S.

Book Review: Seed of Hope by Quinton Wall

By far, the best part of being involved in the social media scene – specifically Twitter – has been networking with people I never would have met before. Sure, I get some great information and resources for my day job, but it’s the people that I enjoy most. And yes, those of you who know me personally can laugh at the irony of that. Anyway, as an aspiring writer who desperately needs motivation, I especially enjoy following the struggles and accomplishments of authors – both new and published.

One such writer I’ve enjoyed is Quinton Wall, the author of the breakthrough fantasy novel The Seed of Hope. Set in a world hidden within our own Earth, Seed of Hope is the story of Charlie Parker, a boy whose magical talent is stolen from him and the quest he and his friends take to return what was rightfully Charlie’s. Along the way, they must battle evil forces seeking to stop them and take over the source of the talents as well as cope with the dark heart of one of Charlie’s companions. The full summary and other great information on Seed of Hope can be enjoyed here: http://tr.im/oYeV.

I have to admit, it’s been a while since I read a fantasy novel – the last ones being the Dragonlance series by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman back in the early 90s. Despite that, I found myself immediately drawn into the genre again by Wall’s masterful storytelling and the depth of the plot and character development. Some of the conversations between the children seemed too forced and I would have like to see more emotion around an early death, but remember, Seed of Hope is targeted toward young adults. And regardless, within minutes of beginning to read, I was sucked into the story, its heroes and its villains. I was fighting side by side with them, feeling their pain, their fear, their excitement.

Throughout the book, Wall does an exceptional job detailing the scenes and the plot flows smooth and fast. The action scenes and the discovery each character makes of their magical talent were the most riveting sequences of the book. His development of the villain, hero, and even the supporting characters made them easy to relate to and I understood each action they took because of the effort Wall took explaining their background.

This has been a great read, and if you enjoy authors like Weis and Hickman or the Harry Potter series, you need to pick up a copy of Seed of Hope. My only warning? The 2nd book in the series isn’t finished yet and you’ll be chomping at the bit until it is!

For more information on Quinton Wall and his books see:

www.quintonwall.com
www.twitter.com/quintonwall
www.facebook.com

Until next time,
~T.S.

What It’s About

As more and more people find out I’m working on a book, I’ve been asked more and more what it’s about (imagine that). Anyway, last night, I worked up a quick storyline, similar to what you would see on the back cover of a novel. It’s rough and has some things that need adjusted, but this is what my book is about.

Until next time,

~T.S.