text changes

CNAME.txt

@@ -0,0 +1 @@
+rhondagowlergreene.com

_layouts/books.html

@@ -35,7 +35,7 @@
       {{page.publisher}}
       {% for book in page.isbn %}
         <br />
-        {% if book.type == "Kindle ebook" %} {{book.type}} {% elsif book.type == "audio CD version" %} {{book.type}} {% else %} ISBN {{book.number}} ({{book.type}}) {% endif %}
+        {% if book.type == "Kindle ebook edition" %} {{book.type}} {% elsif book.type == "audio CD version" %} {{book.type}} {% else %} ISBN {{book.number}} ({{book.type}}) {% endif %}
       {% endfor %}
     </p>
     {% if page.buy == false %} {% else %} <div id="buynow"><a class="buy buy-info" href="{{page.buy}}" target="_blank">Buy now</a></div> <div id="amazon">Some books are out of print but available through the author.  Please inquire.</div> {% endif %}

_posts/bio/0001-01-01-bio.md

@@ -5,7 +5,7 @@ category: bio
 
 <div id="bio_img_rhonda"><img src="{{site.baseurl}}/img/bio_rhonda.jpg" width="163" height="250" alt="Rhonda" /></div>
 
-Rhonda Gowler Greene is the author of over twenty children's books. She's a former elementary learning disabilities teachers and holds a Master's in Educational Media. Her first sale was _Barnyard Song_ to Simon & Schuster/Atheneum. Her books have received the following honors.
+Rhonda Gowler Greene is the author of over twenty children's books. A former elementary learning disabilities teacher, Rhonda holds a Master's in Educational Media. Her first book sale was _Barnyard Song_ to Simon & Schuster/Atheneum. Her books have received the following honors.
 
 <div id="bio_awards"><p2>
 <i>School Library Journal</i> Best Book <br />
@@ -25,27 +25,27 @@ starred reviews (<i>Publishers Weekly</i>, <i>School Library Journal</i>, <i>Boo
 #An interview with Rhonda...#
 
 <p class="h2">What made you want to become a children's author?</p>  
-I love books, always have. And I love kids. Growing up, I dreamed of being a teacher, which I was out of college. When I had kids of my own, though, I quit teaching and was a stay-at-home mom. I read and read and read to my kids (sorry dirty dishes!). The more I read really delightful children's books, the more they made me want to write books like that. So after I tucked my kids into bed at night—I wrote.
+I love books. And I love kids. Growing up, I dreamed of being a teacher, which I was out of college. When I had kids of my own, though, I quit teaching and was a stay-at-home mom. I read and read and read to my kids (sorry dirty dishes!). The more I read really delightful children's books, the more they made me want to write books like that. So after I tucked my kids into bed at night—I wrote.
 
 <div id="bio_img_redfolder"><img src="{{site.baseurl}}/img/bio_redfolder.jpg" width="129" height="81" alt="Rejections" /></div>
 
 <p class="h2">Was it hard to get published?</p>  
 Very. These are my 220 rejections before I made my first sale. And I still get rejections. I think it takes a tremendous amount of the 3 P's to get published… Passion, Persistence, and Patience.
 
-<p class="biospace">Where do you get ideas for your stories?</p>  
+<p class="h2">Where do you get ideas for your stories?</p>  
 For me, ideas come from anywhere and everywhere. They often pop! in my head when I least expect them. Sometimes when I'm actually trying to think up a new story idea, I can't think of a thing. I get most of my ideas when reading other children's books. My house is like a library—I own hundreds!
 
 <p class="h2">Do you illustrate your stories?</p>  
-No. I'm not even good at drawing stick figures. But—maybe I have some hidden illustrator genes in me because my youngest son is a talented artist! He has a degree in illustration.
+No. I'm not even good at drawing stick figures. But—maybe I have some hidden illustrator genes in me because my youngest son, Brad, is a <a href="{{site.baseurl}}/img/bio_brad_drawing.jpg">talented artist</a>! He has a degree in illustration.
 
 <p class="h2">Do you pick who illustrates your books?</p>  
-I usually have no say in who illustrates my manuscripts. The editor chooses. There have been a few exceptions. I must say, it's really fun to finally see my written words come to life through pictures. The illustrations are usually even better than what I imagined when writing a story!
+I usually have no say in who illustrates my manuscripts. The editor chooses. There have been a few exceptions. I must say, it's really fun to finally see my written words come to life through pictures. The illustrations are usually even better than what I imagined when writing the story!
 
 <p class="h2">Are you represented by a literary agency?</p>  
-I've been represented by Curtis Brown Ltd. in NYC since 1996.
+I've been with Curtis Brown Ltd. since 1996. Marilyn E. Marlow was my first agent. I was honored that she took me on. She was a legend in her field. Sadly, Marilyn passed away in 2003. I'm honored now to be represented by the very talented Elizabeth Harding.
 
 <div id="gary">
-<div id="bio_img_l2"><img src="{{site.baseurl}}/img/bio_wedding.jpg" width="256" height="280" alt="Gary and Rhonda" /></div>
+<div id="bio_img_l2"><img src="{{site.baseurl}}/img/bio_wedding.jpg" width="171" height="250" alt="Gary and Rhonda" /><p class="caption">dancing at our daughter's wedding</p></div>
 
 <p class="h2">Are you married?</p><p> 
 Yes, over 35 years to this handsome guy.
@@ -63,14 +63,14 @@ Gary and I have been to many wonderful places in the world and some remote ones
 
 </p></div>
 
-<p class="biospace">Where do you live?</p>  
+<p class="h2">Where do you live?</p>  
 I live in the beautiful state of Michigan amidst quiet blue lakes and even quieter snowfalls.
 
 <p class="h2">Where did you grow up?</p>  
-I grew up in southern Illinois (Salem, Mt. Vernon, and Cahokia). The summer before my senior year in high school, my family moved to northern Kentucky. I did not want to move! Within a year though, there was a happy ending—I met my husband-to-be. A few years later, we packed up and moved to Michigan and it's been our 'home sweet home' ever since.
+Southern Illinois (Salem, Mt. Vernon, and Cahokia). The summer before my senior year in high school, my family moved to northern Kentucky. I did not want to move! Within a year though, there was a happy ending—I met Gary. A few years later, we packed up and moved to Michigan and it's been 'home sweet home' ever since.
 
 <p class="h2">Where did you go to college?</p>  
-Northern KY University for undergrad (B.A. in elementary and special education)
+Northern KY University for undergrad (B.A. in elementary and special education) <br />
 Xavier University in Cincinnati for master's (in educational media)
 
 <p class="h2">How do you pronounce Gowler?</p>  
@@ -100,20 +100,24 @@ Four terrific kids. Though they're grown now, they are still a huge part of my l
 <p class="h2">What are your hobbies?</p>  
 I love to read. And I love to travel. I've gotten to visit Europe several times. How lucky is that!
 
-Too, I collect reading figurines. 174 at last count! (*shhh*… don't tell anyone, but sometimes when I'm having writer's block, you might find me shopping for more!)
+Too, I collect reading figurines. 179 at last count.
 
 And I play the piano. I minored in music/piano in college and often think my music background influences the way I love to write with rhythm and rhyme.
 
-For more about me see…
+For more, see…
 
 <p>
 
 <a href="http://jumpingthecandlestick.blogspot.com/2010/01/michigander-monday-rhonda-gowler-greene.html" target="_blank">Jumping the Candlestick interview</a><br />
 
 </p>
 
+<div id="bio_img"><img src="{{site.baseurl}}/img/bio_saa.jpg" width="74" height="100" alt="Something About the Author" /></div>
+
 Something about the Author series
 
+<br />
+
 #Thanks so much for stopping in!#  
 #I hope my books add to your joy of reading!#
 

_posts/books/0001-01-01-eek.md

@@ -12,9 +12,9 @@ isbn:
 buy: "http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FCreak-Snicker-Rhonda-Gowler-Greene%2Fdp%2F0689830475%3Fie%3DUTF8%26s%3Dbooks%26qid%3D1207814549%26sr%3D8-15&tag=rhondgowlegre-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325"
 ---
 
-A fun, whimsical story of two little mischievous creatures that scare kids at night. But guess who gets scared in the end??
+A fun story of two little mischievous creatures who scare kids at night. But guess who gets scared in the end??
 
-"What, or rather, who makes all that noise outside that torments kids at bedtime? Parents, of course, will always look for a logical explanation: 'It's just a truck, a clackity train,/a thunderstorm, the zooooom of a plane.' But Greene and Smith step inside the imaginations of children and propose that such noises are the work of two creatures: Bugbear…and Bugaboo…Delivered in a funny way, the message has the authority of FDR: the only thing we have to fear is fear itself."  
+"What…makes all that noise outside that torments kids at bedtime? Parents...will always look for a logical explanation: 'It's just a truck, a clackity train,/a thunderstorm, the zooooom of a plane.' But Greene and Smith step inside the imaginations of children and propose that such noises are the work of two creatures: Bugbear…and Bugaboo…Delivered in a funny way, the message has the authority of FDR: the only thing we have to fear is fear itself."  
 _Publishers Weekly_
 
 "…the rollicking verse is full of onomatopoeia and spooky noises…A great opportunity for adults to howl and yowl at bedtime storytimes, these 'boos' deserve a resounding yeah."  

_posts/books/0001-01-01-shape.md

@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ isbn:
   - type: "Scholastic Book Club edition"
     number: 0-590-64205-7
     inprint: true
-  - type: "Kindle ebook"
+  - type: "Kindle ebook edition"
     inprint: true
 buy: "http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FWhen-Line-Bends-Shape-Begins%2Fdp%2F0618152415%3Fie%3DUTF8%26s%3Dbooks%26qid%3D1207817914%26sr%3D8-21&tag=rhondgowlegre-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325"
 ---

_posts/books/0001-01-01-sing.md

@@ -9,12 +9,12 @@ isbn:
   - type: hardcover
     number: 0-8066-5120-2
     inprint: false
-  - type: "Kindle ebook"
+  - type: "Kindle ebook edition"
     inprint: true
 buy: "http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSing-Praise-Rhonda-Gowler-Greene%2Fdp%2F0806651202%3Fie%3DUTF8%26s%3Dbooks%26qid%3D1207814549%26sr%3D8-6&tag=rhondgowlegre-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325"
 ---
 
-A joyous celebration where all the earth praises their creator.
+A joyous celebration where all living things praise their creator.
 
 <blockquote class="excerpt"><p2 class="excerpt">
 All that breathe, the seasons round, <br />

_posts/forthcoming/0001-01-01-kitten.md

@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ layout: forthcoming
 category: forthcoming
 title: Only God Can Make a Kitten
 short: kitten
-illustrator: Laura J. Bryant
+illustrator: Laura J. Bryant (illustrator of the international best-selling <i>God Gave Us You</i> and sequels)
 publisher: "ZonderKidz"
 isbn:
 buy: false

_posts/forthcoming/0001-01-01-walker.md

@@ -9,6 +9,6 @@ isbn:
 buy: false
 ---
 
-In March/April 2012, a book auction with 4 major publishers took place regarding a new manuscript of mine. Exciting! I chose to go with Walker, who offered a 3-book contract. These are the flowers the Walker editors sent after my decision. 
+__Titles, illustrator, release dates TBA__
 
-__Titles, illustrator, release dates TBA__
+In March/April 2012, a book auction with 4 major publishers took place regarding a new manuscript of mine. Exciting! I chose to go with Walker, who offered a 3-book contract. These are the flowers the Walker editors sent after my decision.

_posts/visits/0001-01-01-school.md

@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ category: visits
 
 <center><span class="promo"><a href="{{site.baseurl}}/rhonda_gowler_greene_promo_2012.pdf" target="_blank">Promotional Material (pdf)</a></span></center>
 
-I love visiting schools! I've been doing author visits across the country for the past 15+ years. My goal? 
+<center><p>I love visiting schools! I've been doing author visits across the country for the past 15+ years. My goal?</p></center>
 
 __<center><p>Get students excited about reading and writing!</p></center>__
 
@@ -48,6 +48,8 @@ I have a <span class="h3">question/answer time</span>
 
 </p2></div>
 
+<br />
+
 <center><p>
 
 *During the last part of each session, I give lots(!) of concrete tips to students about… <br /></p></center>
@@ -60,6 +62,8 @@ This part of the program especially earns terrific feedback from teachers!!
 
 </p></center>
 
+<br />
+
 _<p class="h2">For the youngest ones (PreK-K)…</p>_
 
 PUPPETS AND MUSIC AND SHAPES, OH MY! (30 minute presentation) Students participate with puppets as I read _Barnyard Song_. Ten large shapes and a guessing game are used with _When a Line Bends…A Shape Begins_. African instruments are used with _Jamboree Day_. Get ready for fun, oh my!
@@ -71,19 +75,19 @@ _<p class="h2">The basics:</p>_
 
 <div id="box2"><p2>
 
-It's always a <i>great</i> visit when students are prepared.  A few weeks ahead, get them acquainted with me (website) and my books. <br />
-I prefer 50-minute presentations (30 min. for PreK-K) <br />
-all presentations are <b>very</b> age-appropriate <br />
-maximum of 4 presentations a day; 2 for half-day (a 30-minute session for am or pm K can possibly be added) <br />
-am comfortable presenting to all group sizes, small to large (300+) <br />
-a simple contract is sent and a list of things needed the day of the visit <br />
-no deposit required <br />
-book order form is available <br />
-am happy to sign books students have ordered <br />
-discretion used at public schools regarding my religious titles <br />
-standard government mileage rate charged when driving <br />
-lodging needed night before if more than an hour drive from my house <br />
-out-of-state schools can share travel/lodging expenses if I'm booked at more than one school in the district <br />
+It's always a <i>great</i> visit when students are prepared. A few weeks ahead, get them acquainted with me (website) and my books. <br />
+I prefer 50-minute presentations (30 min. for PreK-K). <br />
+All presentations are <b>very</b> age-appropriate. <br />
+Maximum of 4 presentations a day; 2 for half-day (a 30-minute session for am or pm K can possibly be added). <br />
+I'm comfortable presenting to all group sizes, small to large (300+). <br />
+A simple contract is sent and a list of things needed the day of the visit. <br />
+No deposit is required. <br />
+A book order form is available. <br />
+I'm happy to sign books students have ordered. <br />
+Discretion is used at public schools regarding my religious titles. <br />
+Standard government mileage rate is charged when driving. <br />
+Lodging is needed the night before if more than an hour drive from my house. <br />
+Out-of-state schools can share travel/lodging expenses if I'm booked at more than one school in the district. <br />
 Fees: My fees are very reasonable. Please inquire regarding them.
 
 </p2></div>

_posts/writers/0001-01-01-writers.md

@@ -17,23 +17,26 @@ Especially ones released in the last few years. And notice who publishes them. I
 
 > What makes this book so good?  
 > Why do I think this book got published?  
-> Does the book have fresh writing?  
-> Great rhythm?  
-> Wonderful plot?  
+> Does the book have fresh writing? Great rhythm? Wonderful plot?  
 > Is the 1st sentence a "grabber"?  
 > Does it have a unique main character?  
-> Does it have a satisfying ending? etc.
+> Does it have a satisfying ending?  
+> etc.
 
 Then try to incorporate some of the best elements of the books into your own writing.
 
 How do you know what's been recently released?
 
-Visit bookstores. Also, Publishers Weekly (PW) has special issues in Feb. & July that list all the new children's books being released that season. You can find these issues at some bookstores and libraries, or you can call PW at 1-800-278-2991 to order them.
+Visit bookstores. Also, in February and July, <a href="http://www.publishersweekly.com" target="_blank">Publishers Weekly</a> lists all the new children's books coming out for the following season (they're listed by publisher). In February, look for the Spring Announcements. In July, look for the Fall Announcements. Too, you can find hard copies of these issues at some bookstores and libraries, or you can call PW at 1-800-278-2991 to order them.
 
 <p class="h4">Write</p>
 
 As with anything, "practice makes perfect."
 
+<p class="h4">Make a dummy (if you are writing a picture book)</p>
+
+Most picture books are 32 pages long. Cut your story apart and make a "dummy" of your story to see if it fits a picture book format. The 32 pages include the end pages, title, and copyright pages, so your story should fill up about 28-29 pages of the dummy. This is just to help you. Don't send the dummy to editors unless you are a professional illustrator and have done sketches for your story.
+
 <p class="h4">Join SCBWI</p>
 
 <div id="bio_img_l"><a href="http://www.scbwi.org" target="_blank"><img src="{{site.baseurl}}/img/scbwi-logo.png"></a></div>
@@ -56,11 +59,12 @@ As with anything, "practice makes perfect."
 <i>Writing Children's Books for Dummies</i> by Lisa Rojany Buccieri and Peter Economy <br />
 <i>You Can Write Children's Books</i> by Tracey E. Dils <br />
 <i>The Writer's Guide to Crafting Stories for Children</i> by Nancy Lamb <br />
-<i>Writing for Young Children</i> (old and out-of-print, but a great book) by Claudia Lewis <br />
+<i>Writing for Young Children</i> by Claudia Lewis (old and out-of-print, but a great book) <br />
 <i>Writing Picture Books A Hands-On Guide from Story Creation to Publication</i> by Ann Whitford Paul <br />
 <i>How to Write a Children's Book and Get It Published</i> by Barbara Seuling <br />
-<i>Writing with Pictures</i> (mostly for illustrators) by Uri Shulevitz <br />
-<i>The Complete Idiot's Guide to Publishing Children's Books</i> by Harold D. Underdown and Lynne Rominger
+<i>Writing with Pictures</i> by Uri Shulevitz (mostly for illustrators) <br />
+<i>The Complete Idiot's Guide to Publishing Children's Books</i> by Harold D. Underdown and Lynne Rominger <br />
+<i>On Writing</i> by Stephen King (an excellent book for writers of any genre)
 
 </p></div>
 

css/style.css

@@ -460,7 +460,7 @@ a img {
 }
 
 blockquote.excerpt {
-	width:340px;
+	width:350px;
 	font-style:italic;
 	margin-left:20px;
 }
@@ -737,7 +737,7 @@ blockquote.standtall {
 
 #bio_awards {
 	height:194px;
-	width:505px;
+	width:475px;
 	margin:-7px 0 0 173px;
 	padding-left:130px;
 	background-color:#edf1fa;
@@ -780,8 +780,8 @@ blockquote.standtall {
 }
 
 #bio_img_redfolder {
-	float: left;
-	margin: 0px 10px 0 0;
+	float: right;
+	margin: 10px 60px 0 0;
 	overflow: hidden;
 }
 
@@ -947,7 +947,7 @@ blockquote.standtall {
 }
 
 #box2 {
-	padding:10px 20px 15px 40px;
+	padding:10px 10px 15px 40px;
 	line-height:1.2em;
 	background-color:#edf1fa;
 	border:1px #8eabf5 solid;