Eighty-six Eggs (Book) - 5/26/2006 9:27:43 PM
Congratulations Carmen on your new collection of shorts! Looking forward to buying a copy & hope you'll be kind enough to give me an autograph copy! Right?
Kaleidoscope (Book) - 5/21/2004 10:09:09 PM
Carmen;
As usual with your work terrific imagery. It's always difficult to write around someone else's premise but it looks like you nailed it.
Dan S.
Kaleidoscope (Book) - 5/18/2004 7:56:45 PM
Surely, a book to read. Congratulations.
Shaken & Stirred (Book) - 5/31/2003 11:26:04 PM
I love Carmen's work! And many of the others as well. A worthwhile book to own.
Shaken & Stirred (Book) - 2/21/2003 5:25:52 PM
Greetings from Argentina and the den.
Congratulations and best luck.
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 10/5/2007 3:30:51 PM
This story is finely written with awesome things to say. I felt warm all over. You sure have a way with words and a brilliant imagination there.
Take Care,
Charles D. O'Connor III
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 5/13/2007 2:05:49 PM
great story and it kept me reading all the way!!!
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 1/15/2007 2:02:58 AM
I loved this! Having been a waitress in my earlier years (we won't discuss just how long ago it was), I identified with many things in the story and was caught up in the atmosphere immediately. The back and forth banter had me laughing out loud a few times. Loved the dialogue and the characters and the details you added to make it all come alive.
How on Earth did I miss this one before??? It was a treat to read!
Jill
Christmas Out of Tinsel Town (Short Story) - 12/18/2006 11:24:20 AM
You told this exceptionally well, Carmen. I felt those gates locking behind me. A compelling tale, not the least bit overdone. Thank you. ~~Nordette
Christmas Out of Tinsel Town (Short Story) - 12/14/2006 9:50:57 AM
Oh My goodness...I am sure it was and eyeopener sis....thank you for sharing this with us!!
SO help me God I do hope I never have to face that!!
Love Tinka
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 10/20/2005 9:58:27 AM
This story kept me interesting from line one. The back and forth, catty, waitress dialogue was stupendous and very realistic. It almost makes a tear come to your eyes (Not mine, I'm a man and men do NOT cry.) to think of the Derby and its demise. Like everything else. Everyone else. You made your point loud and clear and straightforward about the movie actors and actresses of old. They were a "presence." Never be that way again. These days I think we know entirely too much about today's celebrities' lives, they almost become one of the family after watching all their appearances on a thousand talk shows and A&E running their bio's all the time. I loved this story, just wish you'd stuch extra spaces bewtttn the chapters. But then, that's MY hangup.
Twenty-Four Hours (Short Story) - 3/4/2005 10:51:26 PM
well done, for a time I was a single mom. life do get difficult at times.
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 3/4/2005 10:48:44 PM
enjoyed the read
Twenty-Four Hours (Short Story) - 2/7/2005 7:56:35 AM
God Bless this day...God Bless this night.
Nice writing, Carmen.
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 11/9/2004 4:55:01 PM
Carmen, you wrote a lovely story here - I don't use the word 'great' often, but this story deserves it- you are so authentic, and so eloquent. Wonderful accolade to people who try to cling to a tail of a lost time and a lost glamour. I'm always impressed by your talent of superbe observation. Franz
The Audition (Short Story) - 10/13/2004 7:53:39 AM
Carmen,
The pen is mightier than the thwart - a sensational write ... top drawer for sure!!
Robert
Too Late For The Early News (Short Story) - 9/6/2004 11:39:55 AM
Carmen,
This is one exceptional piece of writing - topped off with an excellent photo ... John Lennon - what a terrible waste of someone that had so much talent (his "Double Fantasy" album, signed to Mark Chapman, sold to a private collector for $450,000) ...
Robert
Bless Me, Andres (Short Story) - 8/31/2004 1:10:06 PM
Carmen,
An exceptional write exemplified by a master of the penned word!
Robert
My Left Foot, My Funny Bone (Short Story) - 8/20/2004 11:44:13 AM
Carmen,
Well-conceived and thought-out, this story 'delivers' ... exceptional write!
Robert
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 8/12/2004 10:00:46 AM
Incredible visuals and extremely well-written Carmen! It was a pure delight to read. Thank you for sharing your many talents, my friend! Outstanding creation!
My Left Foot, My Funny Bone (Short Story) - 8/3/2004 7:14:33 PM
i like your work
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 7/10/2004 9:13:07 AM
Carmen,
Superb mastery of the written word clearly shown in this very unique and descriptive short-story. It places the reader right there - one could actually taste the coffee, smell the food cooking, and 'know' the characters - Bravo for this excellent write!
Best wishes,
Robert
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 6/26/2004 8:05:30 AM
You have a great knack for writing dialogue, Carmen. Absolutely enjoyed this story, felt as if I were there. Thank you.
Bless Me, Andres (Short Story) - 5/30/2004 4:42:05 AM
enjoyed the read
My Left Foot, My Funny Bone (Short Story) - 5/28/2004 11:08:43 PM
lol i appreciate the structure of this write, it is very well put-together, the entire conception of the 1/8th beat, carried thorughout and tied to comedy and timing! you said something larger here without seeming to try to, about something prhaps universal...well thought out piece!
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 5/12/2004 5:47:46 AM
Carmen,
This story was thoroughly engaging from beginning to end.
Every line was a pleasure to read, developed the plot, fleshed the characters, colored the scene.
I felt myself there, just one of the patient overlooked patrons, waiting, waiting, at my table for morning coffee and toast,
getting antsy, from the caffeine lack and the humorous lively pace.
Quite honestly, one of the best short stories I've read.
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 5/11/2004 11:31:01 AM
Having been in the restaurant business, this was
a real delight for me Carmen!Your gift for writing
dialogue is superb! I'm really impressed with this
exceptional story line and the realistic way you
delivered it. You are so talented,one to be proud of!
Brava, Carmen!;-)
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 5/9/2004 9:28:58 AM
Excellent writing, Carmen, just a joy to read! Kind of a "Playhouse 90" vibe to this character-driven write! You really created a detailed and fully-fleshed environment (you can smell the cooking, see the paint on the walls, hear the clatter of dishes) in which your people interact and their interactions read real, not forced or "theatrical"!
Great work!
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 5/8/2004 4:55:11 PM
Eighty-Six Eggs is a well written & tight read from beggining to end Carmen. Enjoyed this one alot!
Eighty-Six Eggs (Short Story) - 5/7/2004 2:08:24 PM
I really enjoyed your story Carmen!!
Thanks for this offering!!
Take care!!
Love Tinka
Reviews, Critiques, Goals, and Hurt Feelings (Article) - 7/17/2007 4:29:59 PM
informative article
Inform Yourself (Article) - 7/17/2007 4:28:17 PM
well said
Reviews, Critiques, Goals, and Hurt Feelings (Article) - 11/3/2006 1:08:00 PM
You make excellent and worthy points here, Carmen. Thank you. Love and peace to you,
Regis
Inform Yourself (Article) - 11/3/2006 1:06:19 PM
Thank you for being so kind as to share this vital information, Carmen. Love and peace to you,
Regis
Inform Yourself (Article) - 7/4/2006 11:01:38 AM
Carmen, I hope you write many thousands more words, and win many awards. This was an excellent article. Like you, and Ogre Ed's dad, I think many of us have had experiences with trying to communicate with doctors, and came away without the correct diagnosis. It is so important for people to be informed. I once had a doctor who got angry at people who did too much research about their own symptoms. He bitterly hated the Internet because there is too much misinformation on it, and he felt that people would make bad decisions because of it. He may have had a point, but patients have a right to be informed, and to participate in their treatments.
Anyway lest I ramble on too long, I just wanted to let you know that this was a great article, very well written (as always!).
Cheering you on!!!! : )
Jill
Inform Yourself (Article) - 3/13/2006 8:17:30 PM
Girlfren' ain't it great to learn stuff that the almighty doctors (a few of 'em ain't TOO bad) are too closed minded to succumb to their humility hidden under their golden halos and Einstein hairdos? It was great worshipping with you Sunday night, and I know that our Wednesday night ladies class will be all the way live-wired since I sort of got "drafted" to lead the class. You will then see me in action the way I relate to people when I do my public speaking. (But with just us girls there, it's gonna get a bit crazy. Hope I don't lose my good standing with the church elders who already think I'm nuts!) LOL
blessin's, saving this for when I goof up and stay up longer than I should. (I'm so hardheaded, but I DO have a tape recorder. Eyes starting to sting, better get off this computer. . . . it's my addiction you know. . . writing!)
cynth'ya
Inform Yourself (Article) - 3/11/2006 4:57:00 PM
Carmen I'm so glad you were able to be properly diagnosed at long last!My sister suffered from sleep apnea.At one time she had to wear some sort of contaption that fit around her ears sort of like an oxygen mask, each night. It's supposed to keep one from loss of breathing. Anyway I hope you will see some improvement now.I love your attitude! "Not me Not today" that's the best any of us can say!
Take care!
Love,
Eileen
Inform Yourself (Article) - 3/11/2006 9:04:37 AM
Thanks for sharing this very informative piece Carmen!!
Good to read you again sis!!
Keep the faith and all will be okay !!
Love Tinka
Inform Yourself (Article) - 3/10/2006 8:23:53 PM
(((((Carmen))))),
An excellent, informative write; you may have saved many stress and anxiety, and perhaps saved their lives...well done, BRAVA!
(((((HUGS))))) and love, Karla.
Inform Yourself (Article) - 3/10/2006 3:52:22 PM
I concur with the board below completely Carmen
And I am so glad and relieved that you have finally been properly diagnosed by the Grace of God, and are on the road to full recovery
I also think Linda'a suggestion of an air filter in the bedroom is a
very good idea, there are so many allergies in the atmosphere and fabrics, that can adversely affect your overall health
Blessings
Peter
Inform Yourself (Article) - 3/10/2006 3:14:33 PM
My gosh, I am glad you found out what the problem has been. I've known you most of the five years and we've talked on the phone. I am looking forward, my dear friend, Carmen, to meeting you! Because I know that sleep apnea can be cured and you'll feel better, I know you will write a zillion words. You are a great and talented writer. I want to visit with you some day face to face. I bet I make you laugh! Remember I'm your left foot. Or right foot! If you're facing me. Or is it the other way around? Great great news! I'm so glad for you!
Inform Yourself (Article) - 3/10/2006 12:34:19 PM
B R A V O ~~ !!!!!!!! You took the intelligent route, and our health system does not make it easy. Instead, sets up roadblocks
at every turn! SO happy to hear that you have found relief. . .and escaped the clutches of brainwashed physicians who would have put your through God-know-what-all. . .maimed or even killed you in the process! Couple days ago I saw the movie about the special diet for epilepsy that Meryl Streep did for the second time. I had forgotten how much the mother she portrayed had been put through by doctors and insurance companies+++. They refused to t h i n k about alternatives that had been p r o v e n to work. Evidence was not in the form of formal research studies, but even if it had been. Carmen, you have not only done yourself a tremendous favor, you have
done every potential victim of an overentrenched, essentially blind "Big Doctor" a great service. Keep spreading the word!!! Not that I need to tell you. To the contrary!!! Just gettin' carried away....you know me. I really am excited for you. A n d for the rest of us. I recently had to stand up for myself re potentially dangerous medication. Were it not for the educational efforts of
people like you -- thank God for the Internet, right? --, I might
have meekly gone alone. Revolution has come!!! I am going to start gathering azmmunition -- do more research, that is. We have to
speak LOUD and OFTEN. MILLIONS OF LIVES ARE AT STAKE. THANK YOU AGAIN, and C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S. Love always. . .and then, 'Pea'xOx
Inform Yourself (Article) - 3/10/2006 9:54:48 AM
It is SO GOOD TO READ THIS. I have been thinking about you and would have written in a day or so. I only know one person with what you describe and I am afraid that I was too young and inexperience to understand it. In fact I thought he was nuts. This is a good article and maybe some that read it can apply it to their own problems and cut to the chase, so to speak, and get some help. good.
Inform Yourself (Article) - 3/10/2006 8:23:10 AM
I can truly relate to your pain, suffering, endless worry, and complete frustration at times, Carmen; and I truly hope things greatly improve for you.
My father suffered his entire life, from severe migraines, and from 'passing out' or falling fast asleep, at a moment's notice. I spent most of my childhood trying to catch him as he careened towards the floor, fell off ladders, dropped to the ground in the middle of intersections, and passed out while driving.
Over the course of 50 some years, he broke nearly every bone in his body from severe injuries, and he once sliced half his tongue off as his head bounced off a concrete floor. He also spent 50 some years trying to find out what was wrong with him. Even went to the Mayo Clinic, and they never found any abnormalities at all.
I often wonder if and when I will inherit this, and I often wonder about our lack of medical knowledge in this so called modern age.
Inform Yourself (Article) - 3/10/2006 8:14:33 AM
Thank you for this Carmen! My father had sleep apnea related to heart problems. (And I think that allergies complicated the condition. I would suggest those with this problem invest in a good air filter placed in the bedroom). A very well-written article. Forewarned is forearmed...Lin
Reviews, Critiques, Goals, and Hurt Feelings (Article) - 7/6/2005 10:03:29 AM
Hurrah, Carmen! A thoughtful essay on giving reviews and critiques. Yes, I mean that.
I have been at AD for some years now, and I soon learned that "reviews" here are not critiques, for the most part. They are usually a pleasant comment of "hi, i've been here" and a pat of encouragement. Which is nice. True critiques, well, I don't usually see them here. I belong to a couple of writers' groups, and I also have a small "inner circle" of trusted readers to whom I give my work when I am ready to get to that final phase of revision and polish, and I need that second or third pair of critical eyes. As for AD, I think of it more as my online portfolio and a place of networking.
Personally, I never offer a compliment on writing that I don't mean. I either say nothing at all, or I comment on the subject rather than the style... but when I say well done, I mean well done.
Well done, Carmen.
Reviews, Critiques, Goals, and Hurt Feelings (Article) - 1/13/2005 10:11:10 PM
hello Carmen - your article is straight too the point, and very honest. I completely concur with your point of view, in particular on the subject of respect. In the spirit of the above, you might improve this article a bit by using shorter sentences- I believe your message would emerge even stronger. Thanks for your courage. Franz
Reviews, Critiques, Goals, and Hurt Feelings (Article) - 9/30/2004 9:44:15 PM
Carmen, yes, I, too, think your article is excellent and your wish for constructive criticism is valid...there's camaraderie among the most loyal and active of your peers at AD, as you know. It's very nice and for the fun of it...bask in the comfort zone. :))
I don't know where you'd find real critiques. Perhaps a google search would bring up such sites.
love,
Gina
Reviews, Critiques, Goals, and Hurt Feelings (Article) - 9/24/2004 11:06:09 AM
Carmen,
An intelligently and well-thought out article which is definitely food for thought - points to certainly remember for future reference ... thanks for this exceptional write!
Robert
Reviews, Critiques, Goals, and Hurt Feelings (Article) - 9/24/2004 2:22:57 AM
Okay.. I think I can understand what you are saying Carmen...and personally I don't mind what peoples write on my review board...as long as I know they meant it from the bottom of their heart!!
This became a "shelter" to me and my deepest thoughts...and who ever offers me a hand of friendship work related or not....I welcome it with open arms!!
Thanks for sharing this insightful article!!
Love Tinka
Reviews, Critiques, Goals, and Hurt Feelings (Article) - 9/24/2004 1:30:33 AM
I generally agree as well. Since I don't know the AD writers well yet, I tend not to critique, lest I step on toes. I write reviews I believe, but...
Reviews, Critiques, Goals, and Hurt Feelings (Article) - 9/23/2004 8:00:06 PM
What an outstanding article Carmen, well written & thought out, in short nothing less than excellent and professional. You offer & I take alot of food for thought with these piece and hope you don't mind me saving to my personal library for reference purposes! Thanks for posting this and I hope it achieves the goals you had in mind when you wrote it!
Reviews, Critiques, Goals, and Hurt Feelings (Article) - 9/23/2004 7:15:01 PM
Good on you, Carmen! This is the best darn article I've read in a very long while on this topic. I concur; if a writer wants to be "good", it's important to have a strong backbone and accept critiques for what they are - an attempt to help the writer polish his/her work. I will always, always welcome professional (courteous), critiques. This is a very well written article. Thanks!
Tami
Reviews, Critiques, Goals, and Hurt Feelings (Article) - 9/23/2004 1:19:52 PM
Bulls eye Carmen. An Excellent article which dots all the i's!;-) You know from past experience with me that I welcome any help you can give me so critique away my friend;-)! I also agree with the flattery form letter thing, which was a very surprising event that made me wonder what on earth was going on.
First time I ever saw anything like it. I hope not to see any more of it. A caveat though on criticism. We have at the den many who write just for a social sort of coffee klatch feel good camaraderie and aren't interested in the craft. When I realized this I joined in the safe reviews just as you do, which is not to say for the bulk of poets I don't mean what I say.I do! I have decided that when I can't be "agreeable", I don't comment;-) I guess it is the price we pay for
not wanting to offend, and keeping harmony.
Reviews, Critiques, Goals, and Hurt Feelings (Article) - 9/23/2004 1:19:24 PM
Hey Carmen. Good article. Generally, I agree with you and Helga. However, I and others I know have received criticism and downright nasty emails for the silliest offerings of correction (misspellings, etc.). Since that time, I correspond with a few people for critiques and try to offer specific feedback via message boards unless I'm certain the author of a particular poem welcomes my critique. I agree this is a serious shortcoming at AD and would love to see us grow as a community dedicated to helping others perfect our craft Thanks for taking the time to write the article! Dawn
Reality Check (Poetry) - 11/21/2009 2:46:53 PM
You have to keep going Carmen. You have no other choice in life.
If you knew who was walking alongside you every moment of every day, you would never fear or despair again.
It is beautiful to read your poetry again.
God bless and take care
Peter
Reality Check (Poetry) - 5/21/2009 5:13:49 AM
Bravo! Life is about searching...always searching....why am I here, what is my purpose? But I will make them remember me!
Anna
Reality Check (Poetry) - 5/16/2009 7:16:54 PM
Carmen, to fill a vast void inside? to battle futility? your poem shows the quint essence of life without ****... you question - as I do - but in the end, there is no answer. I know it helps to be driven by purpose and duty...so as not to think.
Now that's bright, is it?
much love and hugs
Gina
Reality Check (Poetry) - 5/15/2009 1:02:06 PM
well said, carmen. indeed what are those things that really matter?... haunting question for a haunting worldly incarnation.
you are a truly an inspired poetess.
be well,
cg
Reality Check (Poetry) - 5/14/2009 6:37:06 PM
Excellent poem,very well written,take care
Edwin
Reality Check (Poetry) - 5/14/2009 4:43:37 PM
the mood of this self-reflective poem is quite revealing ... well written, Carmen ...
Reality Check (Poetry) - 5/13/2009 9:32:35 PM
Carmen are you reading my thoughts;-) Every so often I feel like this,sorry to have company,rather like to feel up and smiley;-) Excellent write!...
Love,
Eileen
Reality Check (Poetry) - 5/13/2009 12:26:56 PM
Powerfully poignant lines, Carmen, effectively penned. Well done.
(((HUGS))) and love, Karla.
Reality Check (Poetry) - 5/12/2009 11:53:09 AM
deeply poignant and philosophical, Carmen. Some most wonderful and memorable lines here, in particular:
I am nothing but a cosmic grain
ageing before its birth,
dying earlier than sunrise
you have articulated the results of successful struggle with issues of meaning and futility so well here. You turn your subject matter upside down and bring point and power to expressed questioning of pointlessness. Very well done. TY Kate xx
Reality Check (Poetry) - 5/12/2009 12:08:15 AM
A very poignant write Carmen with great depth, good to read you again.
Best wishes
Andrea
Reality Check (Poetry) - 5/11/2009 4:47:20 AM
Hi Carmen, A cosmic grain sums up what each of really are... this reminds me of words in a song "all i had for dinner was some sleep"...
thank you for sharing this....
In Spirit,
Bear
Reality Check (Poetry) - 5/11/2009 3:24:59 AM
I am nothing but a cosmic grain
I think that's really all any of us really are, no matter how important some believe they are.
Rusty Nails (Poetry) - 5/9/2009 6:49:31 AM
Once again, you have touched my heart. Left a beautiful message in
a beautifully jeweled box to add to my treasures from Caramino.
T h a n k . y o u ., L u v !! <3 'Pea' <3
The Scent of You (Poetry) - 5/6/2009 10:01:29 AM
My eyes are filled with tears. I am very close to my mother, too.
It is so true. You will feel your mother's presence through the beauty of nature around you. The autumn landscapes, the lilies and the robins are all signs of her love and her presence.
This is so beautiful
Please visit my den soon!
Joanna
Sunrise (Poetry) - 5/6/2009 9:59:14 AM
This poem lifted my spirits and made me smile. It is full of hope and love!
Stop into my den soon! I hope you are doing well!
Joanna
I Give Thanks (Poetry) - 5/2/2009 8:04:43 AM
Carmen. I am very happy you recovered. You have much to be thankful for.Very nice write. Life has many ups and downs,but we must press onward into tomorrow. I am glad you didn't give up. R C Smith
Rusty Nails (Poetry) - 4/30/2009 8:45:41 PM
Exquisite, Carmen! I read your piece a few days ago. Each line in each verse, seperated into poetic structure of poetic placement, creates so much more than 'the usual'.
What did you see worth keeping?
when holding old things as if mesmerized,
out of rusty nails and old strings?
What golden vision took you there?
a poetic legacy, words to a song…
Erin
Rusty Nails (Poetry) - 4/30/2009 6:00:19 PM
oh, Carmen...so sorry for your loss. It is touching and strange in a peculiar way: our need to delve into the lives of those we have lost when our grieving is so fresh. It is a way to brand their presence into our hearts and minds because we know our own memories are the only thing to keep those dear ones 'present.'
Your beautiful writing stirs the soul..one so can empathize with you.
hugs and yes! so good to have you back!
thanks,
Gina
Rusty Nails (Poetry) - 4/27/2009 10:08:15 AM
Awesome vision, a beautiful pen!
I Give Thanks (Poetry) - 4/24/2009 5:40:41 PM
Thank you for such an inspirational message!
Amen!
Rusty Nails (Poetry) - 4/24/2009 12:03:02 PM
"What poetic vision let you dream beyond the dust?" Beautiful, sorrowful song, Carmen...Lin
Rusty Nails (Poetry) - 4/24/2009 2:19:07 AM
A very well written poem that was truly heartfelt.thank you for sharing,take care
Edwin
Rusty Nails (Poetry) - 4/22/2009 11:27:28 AM
I couldn't believe when I saw your name,Carmen!;-) It's a delight to read your wise work again,even though connected to your sad loss. My condolences,and I wish you well !Please come back!;-)
Love,
Eileen
!
Rusty Nails (Poetry) - 4/22/2009 4:08:54 AM
It's wonderful to see your name on the Board, again, Carmen. Your delicate and poised poetries have been missed. I am sorry that such poignant writing has a deal of pain as it's inspiration, yet you have touchingly articulated what it is about the loss of someone precious to us that is curiously uppermost in our mind amidst all the confusion - often something seemingly "inconsequential" and yet which means a lot either in terms of the personhood of our beloved, or in terms of trying hard to capture things that were important to them yet of which we had little prior knowledge or understanding. This write captures this anguish and tenacity so well. You will be in many of our thoughts and prayers, Carmen, as you deal with yet another life issue that commands the most intimate parts of emotional experience and make-up. Bless you, Kate xx
Rusty Nails (Poetry) - 4/22/2009 2:48:47 AM
So very sorry for your loss, Carmen; a truly heartfelt piece.
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