Visions of Revisions Dance in my Head

Here’s what I’ll be doing during the holiday break…

I'll be working on revisions for Pretty Tough Book 3 in between eating a ton of cookies and hanging out with family and friends. Total bliss. :)

And although I didn’t blog about it much, 2009 was a year of extremes. Extreme sadness and extreme happiness.

So, bye, bye, 2009! Hello, 2010!

I’ll be back January 4th with more Sporty Saturday Spotlights, news from the publishing front, my journey to publication, and the entire book CHANGE UP (the sequel to SCREWBALL) chapter-by-chapter.

In the meantime, check out YA Fresh today. I'm chatting about my fave holiday movie and YA book.

Happy Holidays, Everyone!! Thanks for visiting my blog this past year and have a terrific 2010!!

Sporty Saturday Spotlight

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on twenty-one-year-old motocross rider, Ashley Jackson. Check out Ashley’s interview below where she shares her passion for motorcross and much, much more. Plus, check out Ashley’s amazing action shots.

Name: Ashley Jackson

Age: 21

Sport(s): Motocross

Hometown: Orlando

High School/Middle School/College: Connecticut School of Broadcasting

Number: 681

What’s your fave sport? Motocross

How many years have you been playing your fave sport? 14 years

What is your fave sporty moment or memory?

When I was at Nationals, I got 9th overall out of 42 other girls.

What was the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing your sport?

It takes a lot of discipline and hard work, and your sport has to be something you are willing to do, and just something you live for.

What lessons have you learned about work ethic from your sport?

Train as hard as you can and make certain days where it is all about motocross, and just be the best you can be at all times you are on the bike.

How do you balance school and sports?

School is number 1, to balance both I just think I can't ride or anything unless I do well at school.

List some awards or accolades you’ve received.

Plaques and trophies are pretty much what they hand out. I also get contingency money.

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

James Stewart and Travis Pastrana

Ashley Fiolek and Jessica Patterson

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question)

I like to shop, but that's pretty much it.

Thanks, Ashley!! Your first name is one of my faves... Best of luck with your motorcross career and Happy Holidays. :)

Do you or someone you know want to be spotlighted? Send an email to Keri Mikulski at kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Happy Saturday!

Sporty Saturday Spotlight

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on motocross rider, Lori Garcia. Check out Lori’s interview below where she shares tips on balance, maintaining a positive attitude, and much, much more. Plus, check out Lori’s amazing action shot.

Name: Lori Garcia (AKA Lolo)

Age: 17

Sport(s): Motocross/Hill climbing

Hometown: Dixon, CA

High School/Middle School/College: Dixon High, Senior - Class of 2010

Number: 291

Ride: 2005 KX100

What’s your fave sport?

Motocross is definitely my favorite sport for sure! Hands down! Haha.

How many years have you been racing?

Well, I have been riding for 8 years now but, I’ve only been racing competitively for 6 years and I love it!

What was your fave sporty moment or memory?

My favorite memory that I have from racing would be the year that I won 1st place for the first time. It was a year after I had began racing hill climbs, I was only 13 years old and even though I there were only three girls in the class I was competing in, I was the only one to actually make it over the hill, giving me 1st overall. So it was a very exciting moment for me and I will never forget it!

What was the biggest lesson you’ve learned from your sport?

The biggest lesson I have learned from my sport would be that you must always have a positive attitude no matter what. It’s a MUST, to be confident in yourself whenever you throw your leg over a dirt bike, it just makes things a whole lot easier; because if you go out there with negativity, it won’t do you any good when you’re riding. So just always be confident in yourself and you will be good to go out there! And if you don’t do good at one race, don’t let that bring you down, ’cause just remember, there will always be other races.

What lessons have you learned about work ethic from your sport?

That you must have a lot of dedication and you have to work extremely hard to get to where you want to be in this sport. You have to give it your all whenever you’re racing or just out there practicing because in the end, it will all pay off!

How do you balance school and sports?

Well, I’m first going to start off by saying this, the rules in my house are that if you don’t get good grades in school, you can’t ride or race. So with me, since I am a senior now I get out of school at 12:00pm pretty much everyday; I come home do all of my homework and make time to go out and practice on weekends, since Saturday and Sunday are the only days that we can make a two hour drive out to the riding park where my brother and I can get some practice in on hills. On race weekends, if, I have homework I have to take it along with me and finish it in the toy hauler before I can go out and hang out with my friends or ride. For me though, it’s not as difficult as other athletes to balance school and sports since most of my races are on weekends.

List some results or awards you have received.

Past results/trophies:

#1 Plate for getting 1st place overall in the 2008 Skip's Promotions California Amateur hill climb points series, girls 16 & under 85cc "b" division

#1 Plate for getting 1st overall in the 2006 California AMA Amateur hill climb points series, girls 16 & under 85cc "C"

Some of my 2009 results:

1st place- Skip's Promotions at Carnegie California Amateur hill climb series, round 1, women’s 100-125cc "b" division- March 2009

1st place- Skip's Promotions at Carnegie California Amateur hill climb series, round 2, women’s 100-125cc "b" division- April 2009

2nd place- Skip's Promotions at Carnegie California Amateur hill climb series, round 2, 125cc stock "b" division- April 2009

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

Male: Ronnie Faisst, I love him!

Female: Ashley Fiolek, she’s awesome and I look up to her so much!

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question)

The girliest think thing that I like to do would probably be getting my nails done. Haha! I love having my nails done.

Thanks, Lori!! Congratulations on all your awards and accomplishments. Best of luck with your career. :)

Do you or someone you know want to be spotlighted? Shoot an email to Keri Mikulski at kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Happy Saturday!

My Fairy Agent

Did you ever want to shrink someone and carry him or her around on your shoulder all day? Like a fairy to help you make uber important decisions, keep you company, or just a bud to bounce things off of? Okay… maybe I’m kind of strange, but I've always wanted my own personal fairy.

And now I'm lucky enough to have one… A human sized one. Michelle Grajkowski of 3 Seas Literary Agency is my fairy agent.

Why is Michelle so amazing? Michelle is a fabulous agent and more… She’s a friend, a confidant, a lion in my corner, a teacher, a mentor, a guide, and most importantly, patient and honest. She's someone I admire. She's the best.

Thanks for making my dreams come true, Michelle. Happy Agent Appreciation Day! :)

And thanks to Cory Keplinger and Lisa and Laura for organizing this important day!

Still Sore and an Interview

Two weeks ago, I was invited to play in my hometown's annual Thanksgiving alumni soccer game...

Here we are.. Representing Maple Shade High School Classes of 1990 - 2000 something, one coach, one son, and one cousin..

Something about strapping on my shin guards and hanging with teammates and friends.. I felt like I was a teen again. Uh.. I'm not. In fact, far from it. And I'm still sore. But, it was a blast and well worth the pain.

Did you check out Suzanne Young's fabulous interview with Razorbill President, Ben Shrank? :) It's a goodie and Razorbill rocks!

Happy Wednesday!

Sporty Saturday Spotlight

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on wakeboarder, surfer, skateboarder, and kiteboarder, Claire Lutz. Check out Claire’s interview below where she shares her fave athletes, great advice, amazing action shots, and much, much more.

Name: Claire Lutz

Age: 22

Sport(s): Kiteboarding, wakeboarding, surfing, skateboarding

Hometown: St. Joseph, MI

Currently living in Cape Hatteras, NC

College: Western Michigan University studying marketing and public relations.

Dreams:

To work in the kiteboarding industry in marketing, and hopefully as a pro kiter so that I can travel the world.

What’s your fave sport?

Kiteboarding

How many years have you been playing your fave sport?

I started one year ago.

What was your fave sporty moment or memory?

My favorite memory was finally learning my first unhooked trick, the Raley.

What was the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing your sport?

To be confident but not over confident. And to share the love of the sport. No one likes selfish people who want all the spotlight for themselves..

What lessons have you learned about work ethic from your sport?

You must work very hard!! It’s important to have a good attitude on and off the water, and always try your very best.

What have you learned about teamwork?

It’s important to support each other, your teammates should always have your back!

How do you balance school and sports?

I spend 6 months of the year on school and the other 6 months focusing on kiteboarding only. When I’m in school I work on snowboarding.

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

Female would be Lisa Anderson, who is a legendary Pro surfer. She has been very inspirational to all women because of her hard work and determination. She proved to everyone women can do anything.

Male would be Jason Slezak, who is a Pro Kiteboarder. He has been in the industry since the beginning, winning hearts with his great attitude towards life and others, along with being a caring supportive friend.

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question)

I’m a fan of painting my nails. It makes me feel more girlie to have hot pink nails, versus chipped dirty nails from being in the water ☺

Thanks, Claire!! And thanks for sharing your fabulous pics! Wow. Kiteboarding looks fun and amazing. Best of luck with your career. :)

Do you or someone you know want to be spotlighted? Shoot an email to Keri Mikulski at kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Happy Saturday!

December Book Review Club

Happy December! I hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season. I absolutely love this time of year. :)

The first Wednesday of the month means another edition of The Book Review Club hosted by Barrie Summy, author of the I So Don't Do Mysteries series. To celebrate the beginning of the winter sports season, I'm featuring P.V. Beck's basketball book, SWEET TURNAROUND J.

Check out the review below which was also featured on Pretty Tough last month.

Looking for an enjoyable basketball book to read this winter season? Check out P.V. Beck’s Sweet Turnaround J published by Bedazzled Ink.

Told over the course of a basketball season, Sweet Turnaround J follows sixteen- year-old spunky All State basketball player Janey Holmes through the most tumultuous season of her life. After her school suddenly closes, Janey must join a new team at a new school that hasn’t won a basketball game in over three years, leaving Janey to wonder, is her basketball career over?

As the Riverside Ravens transform from the worst to the best team in the league, Janey’s tumultuous temper, toughness, and first love are tested and begin to threaten the basketball team. Will the Ravens win the championship for the first time in school history? But, before this can happen, Janey has to overcome all the obstacles tossed her way. A fun book for the basketball player and fan.

Check out the rest of the fabulous Book Club reviews here.

Happy Wednesday! :)

Disclosure: P.V. Beck’s book arrived on my doorstep courtesy of the author's publisher. I often receive ARCs and/or books for reviews (most of the time due to my Chick Lit column for South Jersey Mom magazine and sometimes because I’m an author and other times because I beg). However, I do not blog about every book I receive, only the ones I absolutely adore or feel the need to recommend to fans of sporty lit.

Happy Turkey Day!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm off to my hometown to spend Thanksgiving with my family, participate in an alumni soccer game, and eat lots of pumpkin bread with cream cheese icing. Love this time of year.

What are you doing this Thanksgiving?

Enjoy! :)

Sporty Saturday Spotlight

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on wakeboarder and snowboarder, Lucille Rogoff. Check out Lucille’s interview below where she shares how she went from feeling scared to snowboard to making money doing it, her fave athletes, an action shot, and much, much more.

Name: Lucille Rogoff

Age: 40

Sport(s): Snowboard, Wakeboard, Wake skate, wake surf, and trying to learn to barefoot

Hometown: Monroe, NY

High School/College/Grad School: Monroe-Woodbury High/Ramapo College of NJ/ Univeristy of Phoenix

Sponsors: Freestyle Watch Co, SMX Optics, Fuel, SixSixOne, SockGuy, SnowGirls, Tooks Int’l, Kinesys, GoPro, Member of the Monster Army

What’s your fave sport?

I love all sports and would have a hard time choosing just one, but I make money snowboarding, and I compete as well, so its probably my most lucrative sport.

How many years have you been playing your fave sport?

Funny thing is I have actually only been doing all my sports for going on 4 years, this will be my 4th season snowboarding, and I am in my 4th season wake boarding,less for all the other water sports.

What was your fave sporty moment or memory?

It took me forever to want to learn to snowboard so my favorite memory is when I was finally able to ride all over the mountain with my friends.

What was the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing your sport?

Respect gets Respect, not that I didn’t know that before but to see how frequently in lessons it is stressed that.

List some awards or accolades you’ve received.

Ranked 2nd in Central Vermont and 7th nationally for Slalom and Giant Slalom.

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

Hannah Teter/Dallas Friday are my favorite female athletes and Rusty Malinoski/Danny Kass are my favorite male athletes.

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question)

I am tomboy at heart, but I love to put on a dress and look like a girl whenever possible, and nothing beats a good manicure/pedicure to go with that.

Thanks, Lucille!! Nice pics and I love the Yankees jersey. Best of luck with your career!

Do you or someone you know want to be spotlighted? Shoot an email to Keri Mikulski at kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Happy Saturday! :)

MTV's The Jersey Shore

Last night during The Hills, this commercial appeared on my television...

Seriously? Is this how America see us.. The Jersey Shore?

Okay, in my defense, I live near Cape May about ninety miles south of Seaside Park and my hair is no longer big. I mean, it used to be, but that was a really long time ago. Fist pumps? Again, a long time ago. And yes, I love malls. But, seriously who doesn't?

Can't wait to check out this new reality show. :)

What are you watching?

Happy Wednesday! :)

Saturday Sporty Spotlight

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on 2006 Queen of the Track, Cyndee Schwartz. Check out Cyndee’s sensational interview below where she shares how she stays balanced, her thoughts on winning, and much, much more.

Name: Cyndee Schwartz

Sport(s): Drag Racing

Age: 50 (yikes – how did THAT happen!)

Hometown: Colfax, CA

College:

Strayer University alumni (BS Computer Info Systems - 2006 )

Currently attending Sierra College - Administration of Justice

Number: G759/7759 SST

What’s your fave sport? Drag Racing

How many years have you been playing your fave sport? 6 Years

What was your fave sporty moment or memory?

It seems like every year I get more memories to add into my fave list… so this is a tough question. One of my favorites was a race two years ago where my friends, Katherine, Nancy, and I decided to compete in a small trophy class race. There were about 30 cars in the class, and we three girls did our best to not have to race each other. One by one we took out the guys we raced, and in the quarter finals, we were still in. We each again took out the guys, and then met each other in the semi final round. Katherine and I ended up in the final round. She cut a better light, so I ended up taking runner-up that day. We shared so many laughs that it was really impossible to get stressed over the race – which is probably why we did so well. That was the most fun I have ever had during a race day.

What was the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing your sport?

Winning is a combination of attitude, skill, and luck. All you can control is the attitude you have, and your prep for the race. If Bad Luck gets in the way of a win, don’t let it get you down. Just continue to do your best no matter what.

What lessons have you learned about work ethic from your sport?

Show up, prepared to work, and with a good attitude, no matter what else is going on in your life – and you will succeed.

What have you learned about teamwork?

The hardest thing is that it ISN’T all about you - it is about the team – and many times the spotlight will be on other team members. Love it and celebrate it when your teammates do well and you don’t. Be there for your teammates always, for the good and the bad. They are your family.

How do you balance school and sports?

I have a five way balance thing going – God, family, work, school, and drag racing. That is the order of priority that I have to keep them in. I tell you it can be tough! Drag racing is part of my life and who I am, but without the other parts - drag racing can’t exist.

List some awards or accolades you’ve received.

My absolute favorite accolade was King (ahem… Queen) of the Track in 2006 during an all-truck race. I was unbeatable that day!

Final Round Wins: 5

Final Rounds: 9

Semi-Finalist: 1

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

For male – John Force. He’s an NHRA pro driver that’s had some pretty tough spots over the past few years. He cares about everyone on his team (even the one’s that AREN’T related), he has a winning attitude, and he is just an inspiration to watch.

For female – Peggy Llewellyn. Another NHRA pro in the Pro Stock Motorcycles class. She is a treasure. She has a great personality on and off track, and tough competitive spirit. I have never seen her lose her cool – no matter what the circumstances. She is a great role model.

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question)

I get together with my daughter-in-law, and some friends, and we either scrapbook, or make some crafty creations with stamps. To me that is WAY girlie… especially after being in the garage tearing an engine down the day before.

Thanks, Cyndee! Great advice on winning and the importance of balance and best of luck with your Drag Racing career.

Do you or someone you know want to be spotlighted? Send an email to Keri Mikulski at kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Happy Saturday!

Sporty Saturday Spotlight

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on twenty-two-year old Fabienne Lanz. Fabienne hails from South Africa and is a history making Motorsport Racer. Check out Fabienne’s interview below where she shares a must read tip for athletes, how she handles competing in a male-dominated sport, her strong faith, and much much more. And don’t miss some great Fabienne pics.

Name: Fabienne Lanz

Age: 22

Sport(s): Motorsport - Karting

Hometown: Kyalami, South Africa

Number: 96

Position for 2009: 3rd in the South African National Vortex Super Rok category.

What was your fave sporty moment or memory?

I am blessed and grateful to say that I have a few very fave moments in Motorsport. I think the most fave moment would be the one in 2007 at the Vortex Super Rok Grand Final in Lonato, Italy, because I as an athlete performed my best and the team was top notch, from the engine engineer to the chassis engineer and the support was phenomenal. I had to learn the track really fast, as I never even laid eyes on that track before. I adapted to the grip level quite quickly as well, which I am very grateful for as many people struggled with it. I had a lot of confidence, I was solid as a rock, and no one could intimidate me. Everything came together in the end, we finished 5th in the world and we made history as I became the first female to finish on the podium. I was over the moon! I thank god for everything as his hand was over me.

List some of your best achievements to date:

2003 – Raced in 3 of the Florida, USA Rotax Max Junior Championship, won 2 rounds and finished 2nd in the third. Finished 4th in the South African Rotax Max Junior Championship.

2004 - Finished Runner Up (2nd) in the South African Rotax Max Challenge Championship, won the Rotax Max Challenge NRKC Championship in a South African designed and built Kart (Apex) & qualified to participate at the Rotax Max RM1 International Final at Lanzarote, Spain in 2005.

2005 - Made history and became the first female to make it through to the Final day out of 89 competitors of which only the top 34 qualify to the final round.

2007 - Finished 4th in the Final at Round 1 of the Rotax Euro DD2 Challenge in Salbris, France. Finished 8th in the South African Vortex Super Rok Championship, qualified for the Vortex Super Rok International Final in Lonato, Italy. Made history again as I became the first female to finish on the podium as I finished 5th out of 50 top class karters in the world. I got my National Colours for our outstanding performance.

2008 - Finished Runner Up (2) in the South African Vortex Super Rok Championship, won the Vortex Super Rok NRKC Championship and qualified to participate at the Vortex Super Rok International Final in Lonato, Italy. Finished 13th overall out of 66 competitors.

In a male dominated sport, how do you handle it and how do they handle it getting beaten by a girl?

I used to get pushed around when I first started racing until I was told to overtake left, right over or even underneath. The point was to get passed and not to take any nonsense from the anyone. Today other competitors know, if they push me, I push them back. They must not mess with me. Some boys/men can’t take it to get beaten by a girl, but some look at me as another competitor, which is cool.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from racing?

There are so many, which makes this sport a real life changing experience! I think the biggest one would be dedication. The preparation that goes into the engine and chassis before the race is so important as this is the starting ground to the weekend’s race. A lot of long hours are spent on getting this right. I try to train at least 4 days a week, mostly on core muscles. Studying of the Kart’s handling and engine performance never stops as every corner needs to be analyzed to get the best combination for a specific track.

What have you learned about teamwork?

Team work is what completes the racing driver I think. I think the most important people behind the driver are the Kart and Engine Engineer. The driver needs to work with the Kart and engine engineer in order to get the kart on pace. The people who help put the tent up and clean the kart and change tyres are also important as they make mine and my engineer’s work load a bit less and thus we can concentrate on out jobs. Team work is essential with the team mate as we follow each other to study who is quicker at what position on the track and we discuss the different set up we each have. The media person is one of the most important to work with as she/he markets me.

What drives you to compete?

I love the speed, the complexity of the set up, engine tuning and race strategy. I love competition and the more there is the more that is game on for me. Sometimes the butterflies get almost unbearable before some of the races as I get so exited to give it my all and try and win, but I would not change it for anything. It is living life to the full for me. To be able to stand on the podium at the end is the cherry on the cake.

What do you aspire to become?

My dream is to race a Formula 1 car. I love the speed; the technical complexity of setting up the car to the race strategy to doing what I do best and that is driving the car to its maximum potential and winning! It is the pinnacle of racing for me.

What tip would you like to give people out there?

Once you have found something that turns your tummy upside down, gives you the thrill of your life and you can’t stop thinking about it, hold on to it. Do not give up on your dream. There is a will, there is a way! God will have his hand over you. Trust and have faith in him. And remember, practice makes perfect. :)

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

My favourite male athletes are Michael Schumacher and Lance Armstrong. My favourite female athletes are Danica Patrick, Venus and Serena Williams.

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question)

I think the girliest thing I like to do would be getting all dressed up in a evening dress for an award dinner, looking glamorous.

Thanks, Fabienne for the fabulous and in-depth interview. I absolutely love your tip! So true. :)

If you or someone you know would like to be interviewed for a Sporty Saturday Spotlight, email Keri Mikulski at kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Happy Saturday!

November Book Review Club: The Naughty List

Happy November! I hope everyone is enjoying gorgeous cool autumn weather and gearing up for the holiday season.

The first Wednesday of the month means another edition of The Book Review Club hosted by Barrie Summy, author of the I So Don't Do Mysteries series. Today, I'm featuring the sensational Suzanne Young, author of the THE NAUGHTY LIST (YA, 14 and up) series.

Here’s the back cover of THE NAUGHTY LIST (courtesy of Amazon):

As if being a purrfect cheerleader isn’t enough responsibility! Tessa Crimson’s the sweet and spunky leader of the SOS (Society of Smitten Kittens), a cheer squad–turned–spy society dedicated to bringing dastardly boyfriends to justice, one cheater at a time. Boyfriend-busting wouldn’t be so bad . . . except that so far, every suspect on the Naughty List has been proven 100% guilty!

When Tessa’s own boyfriend shows up on the List, she turns her sleuthing skills on him. Is Aiden just as naughty as all the rest, or will Tessa’s sneaky ways end in catastrophe?

The Naughty List. Is your boyfriend on it?

Suzanne Young’s debut, THE NAUGHTY LIST is amazing. Packed with high school scandal, page turning suspense, romance, and girl power, THE NAUGHTY LIST is sure to be a smash with teens and/or anyone who loves the YA genre. Young’s main character, Tessa, is absolutely adorable, extremely likable, and hilarious. I have no doubt THE NAUGHTY LIST will be climbing the best sellers lists this February, along with SOS’s popping up in high schools across the country.

Okay, I’ll stop bubbling all over this book. But, it’s seriously THAT good. Here’s the adorable Suzanne Young to fill you in on the rest.

1. I would have totally hired SOS (Society of Smitten Kittens) and saved myself a ton of heartbreak in high school. :) How did you come up with the idea for the SOS?

The original idea came from an unlikely place—Ninja Cheerleaders. And when the first line was, “My pom poms hit the wood floor with a double thwack,” I knew that I wasn’t going to write a serious book. First I considered them just handling high school “justice”, but I didn’t care enough. Stealing school supplies? Lame. But then I realized, what was the biggest deal when I was in high school??? Cheating boyfriend. Bam. SOS was born. lol

2. Tessa is adorable. I love her little sayings – Strawberry Smoothie, Oh Applesauce... Is she based on anyone you know?

Unfortunately not. I think I’d enjoy hanging out with Tessa though. She’d definitely cheer me up. And when I realized her perky perfectness, I thought to myself—no way she’d swear. And the more I wrote, the more silly her phrases became.

3. What is your writing schedule like? Do you write during the day, afternoon, or evening? Are you a panster or outliner?

My writing schedule totally varies. I’m an all or nothing type of person. I tend to write my books all at once or I sit and stare at the page. So usually when I write I have to take a couple of days near the end and go to a hotel for some isolation. I know. I’m weird. As far as outlining goes, I’m no good. I do write query letters before I start writing though to keep me on track.

4. When does THE NAUGHTY LIST drop? Can you tell us a little about the sequel – SO MANY BOYS?

The Naughty List will be released on February 4th, 2010 (yay!). The sequel SO MANY BOYS comes out June 4th, 2010 and follows the squad into their latest catastrophe. A copykitten.

5. If you could have dinner with any five people (dead or alive) who would you pick?

Oh, wow. Tough question. First, I’d love to see my grandmother again. She passed away a few years ago and I still miss her tremendously. Who could join us?? Hm… How about Zach Braff, James Dean, Kurt Cobain and maybe Meg Cabot.

Thanks, Suzanne!!

And don’t forget to check out the rest of the club here.

Happy Wednesday!

Disclosure: Suzanne’s book arrived on my doorstep courtesy of Razorbill and my amazing editor. I often receive ARCs and/or books for reviews (most of the time due to my Chick Lit column for South Jersey Mom magazine and sometimes because I’m an author and other times because I beg). However, I do not blog about every book I receive, only the ones I absolutely adore or feel the need to recommend to fans of sporty lit.

Saturday Sporty Spotlight

Happy Halloween!! I hope everyone is eating and enjoying a ton of yummy candy.

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on eighteen-year-old college swimmer, Elizabeth Longo. Today, Elizabeth dishes on determination, lessons, and how she balances school and swimming. Check out her interview and gorgeous pic below.

Name: Elizabeth Longo

Age: 18

Sport(s): Swimming

Hometown: Bartlett, Tennessee

High School/Middle School/College: University of Memphis

What’s your fave sport? Swimming

How many years have you been playing your fave sport? 3 competitive

What is your fave sporty moment or memory?

Qualifying for the county swim meet.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing your sport?

Determination

What lessons have you learned about work ethic from your sport?

Rule 1: If you are not bleeding, nothing is broken, and you're not dying, get back in the pool. (The 12 Golden Rules of Swimming) The same applies to school and work.

What have you learned about teamwork?

A relay team is only as fast as it’s slowest swimmer

How do you balance school and sports?

School comes first and training fits in around classes. I also get up and going while most people are still sleeping. I tend to get more done before noon than some people do all day.

List some awards or accolades you’ve received.

18^th in Shelby County High Schools for the 100-yard backstroke for the 2008-2009 season

What is your biggest goal?

I want to break the world record for a woman to swim the English Channel (the current record is 8 hours and 45 minutes) before I turn 21. Right now, I plan to make my attempt when I’m 20.

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

Male- Apolo Anton Ohno

Female- Natalie Couglin

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question) J

Shopping for cute clothes (Is there anything better?) and gossiping about guys with my friends.

Thanks, Elizabeth! Good luck with the world record. Sounds exciting! J

Do you or do you know someone who wants to be spotlighted? Send an email to kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Time to trick or treat with my little Nemo… J

Enjoy!