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Keeping Track of a Novel's Storyline with a Spreadsheet

I used a spreadsheet program to keep track of the storyline while writing my novel.  I've heard of using index cards, blackboards, post-it-notes, etc. A spreadsheet seems to be the best way. First you'll need to learn how to use a spreadsheet.  I use the Microsoft Works Spreadsheet that came with my PC.  There are more sophisticated spreadsheets but this one is all you'll need.  You can arrange the details to what works best for you.  Use the instructions provided with the program to learn how it works.  It will be worth the effort. I set mine up by columns for chapter, page, characters and action. I use just enough detail to jog my memory. If I want to change the order of the plot's action I can easily find the details. If I want to add a chapter between the chapters I've written I just add a row. If I want to make a change I can instantly find what chapter and page it's on. Of course with each change you make you must adjust the details of the sprea

For the Birds

Here's a website from Cornell  University I just learned about and I want to share it with you. Here's the link: Birds Here's their blog link: Round Robin I especially like the videos and birdsong recordings. A few videos: ROBIN BLUE JAY CARDINAL

Absinthe and the Green Fairy

I don't drink alcohol because according to my doctor it may induce a seizure. Several years ago I had a major seizure while I was asleep. I was rushed to the hospital and started on medication.  After several minor blanking out episodes my medications were adjusted.  Now I'm OK. Sometimes I wonder if I should try a small drink.  Now I drink alcohol-free beer. I like O'Doul's with the green label. I've had one small glass of sangria without any problem. I saw a documentary on Netflix about the history of absinthe.  I didn't know the drink was banned until about 2008! "A potent green aniseed-flavored liqueur  that turns milky when water is added.  Prepared from wormwood,  it is now largely banned because of its toxicity." It's a very strange drink. I'm sure the combination of herbs has something to do with its effects. It can't just be the alcohol! Watch the Netflix film.  It's very good. Here is a sho

Sweet Pea

My wife Lynette likes to listen to the "oldies" while she takes a shower.  I was in the bedroom when this song came on. After all of these years it still makes me smile. It has a very catchy tune with simple lyrics. I found this video on YouTube. I love the innocent looking girl. It was nice of  Tommy Roe to sing the song to her. SWEET PEA  Tommy Roe  I went to a dance just the other night  I met a girl there she was out of sight  I asked a friend of mine who she could be  he said that her friends just call her Sweet Pea  (chorus)  Oh Sweet Pea  come on and dance with me  come on come on come on and dance with me  Oh Sweet Pea  come on and be my girl  come on come on come on and be my girl  I walked on over and asked her to dance  thinkin' maybe later of makin' romance  but every guy there was thinkin'; like me  I had to stand in line to get a dance with Sweet Pea  (chorus repeat)  I finally got to whi

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