Thursday, April 9, 2015

Making History by Brenda Whiteside

Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson


Daddy and Mom in the 40's
Emerson's quote reminded me of something my dad told me when I was ten years old. We'd moved (again) a couple of weeks into my fifth year in grade school. The school had three classes, and the children were placed by where they fit on the learning curve. Since I was late coming in, all the slots were filled in the class I should've been placed. I ended up in a class that taught at a slower speed. My grades showed the result when each time my report card displayed all A's. 

Then one grading period I received a B in history. I'd gotten so accustomed to A's that the B made me pout with disappointment. My dad said something to me I've never forgotten: "You tell that teacher you're too busy making history to study it." Daddy always offered me the best advice. 

Like when I was a teenager. He told me instead of marrying one guy I should just sing in the sunshine. That didn't please my mother. And that's a subject for another post.

Making history. That's what we're all doing so give it your best shot. Sure wish my dad was alive to see I'm a published author. Especially since I just contracted Post-War Dreams with The Wild Rose Press. This 1945 historical romance was inspired by my parents. Daddy would see some of himself in my hero, Benjamin. I feel certain he'd be proud of the history I've made.  

No release date yet. Look for Post-War Dreams later in the year. 


Visit Brenda at www.brendawhiteside.com.
She blogs on the 9th and 24th of every month at http://rosesofprose.blogspot.com
She blogs about prairie life and writing at http://brendawhiteside.blogspot.com/ 

13 comments:

Margo Hoornstra said...

Congratulations on the newest contract, Brenda. You're lucky to have a dad who gave such great advice!

Diane Burton said...

Loved your dad's advice.

Brenda Whiteside said...

Good morning Margo and Diane. Thanks for your very early comments!

Jody Vitek said...

You had an awesome dad! What great advice and he would be very proud of you. Not to mention the history you have made. Love the cover! Wishing you all the best!

Vonnie Davis ~ Romance Author said...

Being a post World War II baby, I don't think of it as history. That would mean I was...cough...historical, just like my two sons claim. I love that you wrote about that era and can't wait to read the book. Congrats on the new contract. I love that you're following your dad's advice and making your own history. Just love it!

Jannine Gallant said...

I read this book in it's first incarnation and adored it! Excellent advice from your dad, Brenda. Love the cover!

Brenda Whiteside said...

I agree with you totally, Jody!

Brenda Whiteside said...

Thanks, Vonnie. But think of it as making history - not that we're historical!

Brenda Whiteside said...

I remember that you liked it, Jannine. It is improved with an excellent editor working with me. The ending is a bit different and the tone in the beginning. Hopefully more people will read it now.

Joanne Guidoccio said...

Inspiring post!

Brenda Whiteside said...

Thanks, Joanne.

Rolynn Anderson said...

Great cover, Brenda...and congrats on the new contract! Yup, your dad would be proud at your accomplishments.

Brenda Whiteside said...

Thanks, Rolynn.