Happy Mother's Day

Your mother is always with you...
She's the whisper of the leaves
as you walk down the street.
She's the smell of bleachin
your freshly laundered socks.
She's the cool hand on your brow
when you're not well.
Your mother lives inside
your laughter.
She's crystallized
in every tear drop.
She's the place you
came from,your first home...
She's the map you follow
with every step that you take.
She's your first love
and your first heart break...
and nothing on earth
can separate you.
Not time, Not space...
Not even death...
will ever separate
you from your mother...
You carry her inside of you...
Author Unknown
Photo of my mom, Bessie Margeret Yoder Nida at sixteen

Michael Feldman's "Whad' Ya Know?" Comes To The Ozarks!
Attend the live Broadcast of NPR's Michael Feldman's "Whad' Ya Know?" show at Springfield's Juanita K. Hammons Hall, Saturday, May 8 from 10:00 a.m.--12:00. If you can't attend, listen to it on your NPR station
Springfield 91.1
Branson 90.5
West Plains 90.9
Mountain Grove 88.7
Joplin 98.9
Neosho 103.7
or streaming at:
www.ksmu.org.
I've been invited to "talk about the Ozarks" on a segment. I have no idea where Michael will go with this, but if it's like the show usually is, it's the perfect format of my column "Ozark Meanderings." I've sent him some of my columns (including the "Ozarker" & "Ozarkian" debate and "What Do You Call A Person From Arkansas?" and articles various writers and OWL members have written for The Ozarks Mountaineer over the years so he can get some "background" and the flavor of the Ozarks and know what he's getting into by doing a show down here!
Fredrick Roger Pfister invites all Facebook Friends to attend Michael Feldman's "Whad' Ya Know" live broadcast Saturday.
Michael Feldman's Whad'Ya Know?www.notmuch.com
Thanks--and don't forget the OWL meeting (and auction), May 15! See you there!
regards...
pfreditor
Dr. Fred R. Pfister
Editor: The Ozarks Mountaineer
Editorial office: 815 Lee St.
Branson, Missouri 65616
Editor's home phone: 417-334-5615
e-mail address: editor@ozarksmountaineer.com
or frpfister@suddenlink.net
www.ozarksmountaineer.com
For subscription and circulation: call toll free: 1-866-784-9444
"Once an Ozarker, always an Ozarker, even if you're no longer living in the Ozarks."
Check out The Ozarks Mountaineer at www.ozarksmountaineer.com. It's the magazine that keeps your heart in the Ozarks!

North Central Children's Writers & Illustrators will meet Saturday, May 29, 1-3 p.m., at Lakeview City Hall, Lakeview, Arkansas. Please email marynida@suddenlink.net

If you want to read my family horse story (Buck, the Comeback Horse) in the May/June Good Old Days Magazine you can find it at most magazine racks or at your local library. I sponsored the magazine at the Baxter County Library.

ONLINE MAGAZINE WRITERS GUIDELINE'S: Kid Magazine Writers http://www.kidmagwriters.com/

NC Children's Writers & Illustrators: President Mary Nida Smith, Vice-president Cherie Neal.
Meet Saturday, May 29 1-3 p.m., at Lakeview City Hall, Lakeview, AR. Sign-up email: marynida@suddenlink.net

Good Old Days magazine http://www.goodolddaysmagazine.com check out their current June issue. My story of Buck the Comeback Horse and a picture of my brother Tiny.

Baxter County Library Annual Auction was a huge sucess April 28th.

OZARK WRITERS AND ILLUSTRATORS FOR CHILDREN http://owaic.org/
May 1 OWAI meeting at The Library Station, Children's Story Room at 9:30 a.m.
for more information email Naomi Shaw at providencepark@wildblue.net or marynida@suddenlink.net
May 8 Twin Lakes Writers for more information marynida@suddenlink.net
or check their website http://www.twinlakeswriters.org
May 10-16 Children’s Book Week


May 16 Books in Bloom http://www.BooksinBloom.org
May 19-22 Baxter County Library Booksale.
May 14-15 OWL http://www.ozarkswritersleague.org We meet at the College of the Ozarks, Branson, Missouri

VOTE FOR MY POEM Spring Leaped on David L. Harrison's blog. Olny two days left to vote.
Thanks!

Need Editing/Critiques go to my friend Lorri at http://www.lorricardwell-casey.com and click on her editing business REVision Critiques. Lorri is a former instructor for The Institute of Children's Literature.

Baby Girl guarding her woods.
The Woodland Garden

The Spring green
is the garden canape.
The days of light rain
fungi and moss rise
from the garden floor.
Nature's ferns and flowers
peep through leaves
to welcome the sunshine.
A rainbow promises
future displays
throughout the seasons
in The Woodland Garden.
Poem & photos (c) by Mary Nida Smith
My garden is one-third of an acre.

The small poetry poster and a basket of poetry books will be the center piece on the refreshment table at the Friends of the Library meeting & auction April 26th 1:30

The Friends of the Library auction poster as you enter the Baxter County Library.

I did enjoy creating both posters.

Celebrate National Poetry Month this Sunday with Poetry in the Park Presented By Poets and Friends of Springfield, Missouri Sunday APRIL 25, 2010 from 1:00 to 6:00 PM Grant Beach Park Pavilion located at 1401 N. Grant in Springfield, MO Potluck and Poetry Bring Food for your party and SHARE — Potluck style!!Bring poems for open mike read-a-rounds(We do have families present!)Musical poetry welcome (bring your own instruments)*Charcoal Grills *Drinking Fountains *Restrooms *Playground *Electricity *Plenty of Parking *Sheltered Seating *Easy Access Nothing Better--A Day of Poetry, Food and Fun It's on and we invite all
of you to come!! Please publicize as you can and see fit to do so!!M J Becco, Event Chairman MJBecco@hotmail.com Poets & Friends For more information
on Missouri Poets & Friends visit: http://www.nfsps.com/mo/p&f.htm

BAXTER COUNTY LIBRARY (ARKANSAS)FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY ANNUAL
AUCTION WED., APRIL 28 1:30 DONATIONS NEEDED. MANY ITEMS TO BID
ON & BUY WHILE ENJOYING REFRESHMENTS AND LOTS OF FUN.

Independent Bookstores, Illustrators Digital Books and A Walk in Nature:

Guide to Independent Bookstores in U.S. and Canada can be found at http://www.newpages.com/bookstores and you will find information for magazines,
Writers Resources, Books, and other Guides & Features.

For Illustrators -Steven Withrow is the author of six books: Toon Art, Webcomics, Character Design for Graphic Novels, Vector Graphics and Illustrations, Secrets of Digital Animation, and Illustrating Children’s Picture Books. http://cracklesofspeech.blogspot.com

A Walk in Nature
I spent a few hours in The Woodland Garden enjoying nature. Gosh, I love the surprises I am offered as I explore while I work. For several months a large brown cocoon that feels like paper has been attached to one of the large wild cherry trees on the south end of the garden. I had no idea what it was. I sent a photo to Jeffrey K. Barnes, Curator at the University of Arkansas. He said it appears to be a cecropia moth cocoon. I found more information and pictures in a book and a website. I do hope to see it when it comes out to explore the world. I have been trying to keep watch, but that isn’t always possible. I will collect the empty cocoon to add with the rest of my nature collection.
I have been keeping an eye on the several dens throughout the woods for some kind of movement. Nothing yet. Our ten squirrels and Mrs.M or Momma squirrel as she is known arrives ever-so-often at one of our windows for a couple of peanuts. I have a hummingbird food out, but no hummingbirds. They are late. Each year they arrive later and later.

Beverly Cleary - Cub Reporters Wanted:

April 11, Newberry Award-winning children's author Beverly Cleary turned 94 years young and going strong. One of my very favorite authors. Thank you for all your wonderful books.

Beyond Her Book - contributor to Publishers Weekly 4/13/10
Barbara Vey _ http://www.publishersweekly.com/blog/Beyond_Her_Book32112-Looking_For_Cub_Reporters....
Looking For Cub Reporters
April 13, 2010

Friday I leave for Washington DC where I’ll be attending the Washington Romance Writers Retreat. I’m really psyched for it. Attending conferences really energizes me and I love connecting with those in publishing and meeting new readers.
.
I’m constantly hearing from readers about how much they enjoy hearing about my travels since they can’t always go themselves. Even though I’ll be attending about a dozen events this year, there’s a ton more I won’t be able to make. While it saddens me, I think I’ve got the perfect solution. You can become a cub reporter for Beyond Her Book. If you are attending a conference, retreat or convention that I won’t be at, let me know and I’ll be glad to include your write up about the function. You can even include a couple of pictures.

Writers Events and Celebtrations:

April 14th National Bookmobile Day

April 16-18 Missouri Writers’ Guild Annual Writing Conference http://www.missouriwritersguild.org
April 18-24 Cowboy Poetry Week http://www.cowboypoetry.com/

April 23-24 Arkansas Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators
Conference http://www.arkansasscbwi.org/

I have a couple of small writing & photographing

assignments to prepare & submit, in the meanwhile,

I'll allow my little ballerina fish, Miss TuTu to dance

across the page until I return. Several of them dancing across the

page is so cute.

Miss. TuTu was inspired by reading Rich Davis' website & blog.

He had drawn several interesting fish. So, I thought I would join him.

Spring is questionable

Spring has arrived
excitement in the air
escaping winter's cell

Wait
What did you say,
pollen count up
Dr says stay indoors

Don't worry
Jack Frost is here

(c) By Mary Nida Smith
Earth Day April 22

Children's Books for 2010 April Holidays and Events - April 2010 ...
April 2010 Calendar of Children's Books - Here you'll find children's books and books for teens for Asian Pacific Heritage Month, Latino Books Month, ...
http://childrensbooks.about.com/od/whatsnewhot/a/may_calendar.htm

Judy Young, Award Winning Author of Children's Books: Judy has great news! Her ninth book The Missouri Reader (Sleeping Bear Press)was just released! The Missouri Reader has something for all kids K-4: a rebus story, poems, fiction stories, biographies, and nonfiction. It even has a chapter book and a play!In addition, The Lucky Star (Sleeping Bear Press, 2008) has been selected as a 2010/2011 Show Me Award Nominee, and Minnow and Rose (Sleeping Bear Press 2009) has been selected as a 2010/2011 Keystone State Reading Award Nominee and it won the 2010 Storytelling World Award! Judy has just opened up a Fanpage on Facebook where you can get updates about her books, awards, speaking events, etc. Just go to her website or the facebook page to sign up! http://www.judyyoungpoetry.com/
Become a Facebook Fan: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Judy-Young-Books/106076459430009

The Woodland Garden: Yesterday, I played in my wild garden pulling weeds and raking. All 35 Dogwoods and five Redbuds are blooming. I have 29 Mayflowers; several years ago I started with nine. The garden is rising up from the dead bringing excitement and adventure to my daily life.

Halloween Bug

Of golden orange
Stripped body
Rings of black
You came too late
To visit Halloween.

This is spring
The season of green
With rabbits and babies
And baskets of flowers
Of rainbow colors.

You came too late
I’ll see you again
When Fall colors change
and leaves fall.
So fly away now

Photo & Poem by Mary Nida Smith ©

April Fool's Day - click on http://davidlharrison.wordpress.com/ to read my April Fools poem.
An informative newsletter to receive click http://childrensbooks.about.com/ and check on Elizabeth Kennedy's blog. If you want to learn about children's books, this is a must to read.

Poets & Friends today is the last day to vote for your favorite March poem at http://davidlharrison.wordpress.com Listed is my poem "Life Is."

APRIL POETRY MONTH: http://www.poets.org/

April: Ozark Writers & Illustrators for Children http://www.owaic.org/

April 4: Easter Blessings (c)Church Steeple photo by Mary Nida Smith

April 7: Ozarks Regional Arts Council, Mountain Home. AR
April 10: Twin Lakes Writers http://www.twinlakeswriters.org/

April 11-17 : National Library Week http://www.ala.org/

April12: Young People's Poetry Week

April 13: David Pryer Baxter County Library http://www.baxlib.org/

The Woodland Garden - I am so excited that we have been promised
sunshine next week. The garden is flooded again this year. The daffodils
shine bright through rain and flog as they invite me to the woods to see
the Redbuds displaying a touch of red covering all the small branches.
I can't wait to spend a few hours turning the brown leaves, pulling
unwanted grass, and weeds. I want to discover who has taken up homes
in all the holes in the ground and old trees. More fun!

Nancy I Sanders March 24th blog http://nancyisanders.wordpress.com/ Nancy shares how important blogs,Facebook, and Twitter is to get an agent and how an editor will find you.
Remember, voting starts today. Go to David L Harrison blog to vote for your favorite March poem on the word "Life".

What a ride!Today, as far as I know my busy, busy world is slowing down. I will be stopping the merry-go-round for a few days as I prepare to catch-up, so I can enjoy my granddaughter when she arrives next week. I am tired, but I love the projects I am involved in. Life is filled with good and bad surprises. I am not reaching for the stars. I am trying to enjoy the light that reflects from each one.

Sid Fleischman, Newbery Medal-winning children's writer, dies at 90
Fleischman, known for his humor and nose for history, wrote more than 50 children's books, including 'The Whipping Boy' and 'By the Great Horn Spoon!,' as well as biographies for young readers.
OBITUARY
March 21, 2010By Dennis McLellan
Sid Fleischman was a successful suspense novelist and screenwriter whose credits included the screenplay for his novel "Blood Alley" when he decided to write a book that his young children could read so they would understand just what it was he did at home all day.
"I seem to have written a children's book," Fleischman wrote to his agent in New York. "If you're not interested, just drop it in the waste basket."

HELPFUL TIPS: Below is a hint of helpful information you will find on Nancy Sanders website:http://nancyisanders.com/

Make Your Own Reference Book. It’s also a great idea to make your own notebook of favorite passages in books, favorite Scriptures or quotes, and even favorite words such as buzz, zany, or zingers. It comes in handy when you’re stuck in the land of writer’s block.

Click on Writer Zone: Helpful Tips for Writers - A list of Basic Tools of the Trade. I discovered Nancy on the Writer magazine enewsletter I receive. She writes an online column: Writing for Children.

Important changes and corrections. Thanks to Kathy Temean of Writing and Illustrating blog http://kathytemean.wordpress.com/ for informing me that no one could comment on my blog other then a Google/Blogger account individual. Hopefully, it is corrected. So, if you have a comment please do. Thank you.

The Blood Red Pencil was incorrect. Correction: http://bloodredpencil.blogspot.com/

OZARKS REGIONAL ARTS COUNCIL ORAC Monthly Board Meeting The first Wednesday of the month -April 7th.

Happy Birthday Pasty. Pasty is my beloved sister and friend. We shared the same dreams. She will always be part of my everyday thoughts.

Happy St. Patrick's Day. The wearing of green or be prepared to get pinched.

Information blog on rewriting - show don't tell. At my blog list is my friend Donna's blog -Donna's Book Pub (DBP) She keeps us writers update on new markets, books, contest and so much more. Today, she mention a blog http://bloodredpencil.blogspot.com/ where this novelist shows before and after he changed from tell to show. This follows the information I placed earlier.

Important Rewrite Information: To publish a book or an article read the two articles below. You'll find them on Kathy's blog - Writing and Illustrating http://kathytemean.wordpress.com/
Show Don't Tell: blog 3-16-2010 and Your Editor Wants a Rewrite: blog 9-30-2009

Writer Beware
Warnings and cautions for writers about literary frauds, scams, deceptions, and pitfalls.www.sfwa.org/for-authors/writer-beware/ - Cached - Similar
Thumbs down agency list
Literary agents
Print-on-demand self-publishing ...
Alerts for writers
Electronic publishing
Contests and awards
Case studies
About writer beware
More results from sfwa.org »
THUMBS DOWN AGENCY LIST
Jan 28, 2010 ... Below, in alphabetical order, is a list of
the currently active literary agencies about which Writer
Beware has received the largest number
http://www.sfwa.org/for.../writer-beware/thumbs-down-agency/ - Cached - Similar
Writer Beware Blogs!
Writer Beware, a publishing industry watchdog group sponsored by the
Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America with additional support
from the Mystery
http://accrispin.blogspot.com/ - Cached - Similar

Writer's Market book - Check out the last pages to find a list
of all the professional organizations for the different genres and
the different industry organizations for writers. There is a lot of helpful
information if you connect with the sources for the different genres you
may be interested in.

Check Missouri Writers website http://www.missouriwritersguild.org for all the different writers groups at Springfield and other areas of the state.

Twin Lakes Writers will meet Saturday, March 13th at 1 pm.
For more information and location click on their
website http://www.twinlakeswrites.org/ I tried to place them
as one of my followers, but they have no "Feed."
So they show up as Page 1 on my blog list. Check us out!

HARD FAULT MUSIC: The creator of this beautiful enjoyable music is Wes Bensching. Today, is his birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY WES. You can enjoy his music at: http://www.apple.com/us/artist/hard-fault/id270193781 - Cached
New Winter Moon by Hard Fault - Download New Winter Moon on iTunes
To preview and buy music from New Winter Moon by Hard Fault, download iTunes now. Already have iTunes? Click I Have iTunes to open it now. ...itunes.apple.com/us/album/new-winter-moon/id348531977 and http://www.myspace.com/hardfaultmusic

Johnny Appleseed Day- celebrate by buying an apple tree and planting it. Make sure you don't have any Red Cedar near by that can cause "Apple Rust." Or just enjoy an apple. Jane Yolen, will be visiting with us tomorrow on David L. Harrison's blog - join us. What a bio Jane has. Check it out. David has been wonderful in sharing his friends and knowledge with us.

Membership Join the Ozark Regional Arts Council that will be meeting at ASU-Mountain Home.

DAN BURR, DAVID L HARRISON, and SO GOES LIFE:
Before I share last week’s, “So goes life,” I must share this
new illustrator. Dan Burr was brought to my attention through
David’s book, PIRATES. I am so glad that our library ordered
three of his books. I have enjoyed reading and learning from them.
Dan Burr is an outstanding illustrator. He paints large double-page
spreads and single pages that appear as if they were 3-D. I almost
felt as if the pirates would capture me with each page I turned. Here
is Dan’s blog http://dburr.blogspot.com. He is from Tetonia, Idaho.
I lived in Idaho coming and going for several years: Cottonwood, Weiser,
Meridian, Boise and Twin Falls.

Last week was a busy turned upside down week. One of our
ten monkey squirrels lost its balance on its regular road home.
Up, up the dogwood tree to the light post to the tip top to start
its journey across the line to the neighbor’s woods and home.

I was watching, when I heard a loud boom and the little body
dropped to the ground. My heart dropped with it. I wondered
if that was Mrs. M who came to my window for her peanuts. Oh,
I hoped not. We were out of electricity until it was repaired about
one hour
later.

The next day the road crew put our water out of commission.
We had no water for about two days and then the boil order
went into effect for a couple more.

Then of all things I decided to change servers to be able
to have more speed and no more dial-up. I thought I had
checked out everything, that maybe, I knew what I was doing.
Well, I found out I didn’t know much. I feel I have lost many
connections I had acquired since I started blogging in the
fall of 1997. I am still waiting for the speed and an email
connection. Life is so unpredictable. I’ll put this to the side
and worry about the possibly of tornado arriving. Well, I
can’t do anything about that either.

Novella: Steven Withrow is writing a young adult novella in blank verse. Interesting. Check it out at http://featherofmemory.blogspot.com/

Check the website of illustrator Rich Davis http://www.pickanddraw.com

Email: My email address is no longer in service. Tuesday or Wednesday I will update everyone with my new address. I have changed servers. What a mess when you don't know what you are doing. So goes life, just a small bump in the road.

NOTES: Clearing my desk is difficult for I have so many notes, that my notes have notes. How about you? I have uncovered the unexpected lost notes. The sun will shine today.

Leslie J. Wyatt: Saturday, March 6, Exploring the mysterious and nebulous SDT - Show,
Don't Tell. It is Ozark Writer's & Illustrator's for Children's great pleasure to host Leslie J. Wyatt this coming Saturday.

Leslie is a freelance writer from Clinton, MO. A two-time graduate of the Institute of Children's Literature and a member of SCBWI, she has had more than 100 articles and stories accepted for publication in various children's magazines, writing and parenting magazines. In addition to her historical middle grade novel Poor is Just a Starting Place (Holiday House), she has two more books submitted to publishers. Leslie is the 2010 MO SCBWI Mentor and is available for conference speaking, mentoring and editing, school visits, author events, and writing workshops for children or adults.


Come prepared for a 45-60 minute workshop. Brush up on the why, when and where to show or tell and how to do it effectively. Rich in sensory detail and geared to challenge and inspire, Leslie's presentation includes interactive writing exercises that will give you opportunity to apply what you learn. A Q&A session follows, time permitting.
Coffee and light snacks Will be provided.

Join us at the Library Station, 2535 N. Kansas Expwy, Springfield, MO.
The general meeting 9:00 to 10:30 with a Critique session to follow.
If you would like to RSVP or if you have questions, please let Naomi Shaw know at providencepark@wildblue.net WEBSITE: http://www.owaic.org/

I had the privilege to meet illustrator Mike Wimmer last night at ASU-MH thanks to Jim & Jill Gaston 's Lecture Series. All you illustrators out there you missed a great opportunity to learn from an artist who has done it all.

Lorri Caldwell Casey at Lorricasey@aol.com or http://www.lorricardwell-casey.com/ Lorrie offers a critique service. Check her out.

Deb Peterson, author of the teen novel - Zodiac-The Lost Twins. http://wwwdaebpeterson.com/

The Woodland Garden: Saturday, I took a walk through my garden to see if Spring had started to sing. What a small note I found reaching for the sun. One bright cheerful crocus. That is all. The daffodils' green leaves are up displaying their frost burned tips.

The ladybugs and small wasps are entering my space where I had the unwelcome sign up. They are welcome to stay in the garden, but not in my Garden Studio. The snow birds are leaving and the robins are taking over. Everyday is filled with small surprise. Enjoy the day!
(c)Photo by Mary Nida Smith

Mike Wimmer, Children's book illustrator will be at
ASU Mountain Home March 1, 2010 at 7 P.m. For more
information click on http://www.asumh,edu/calendar
or http://www.mikewimmer.com/

All you illustrators out there don't miss this event.

Photo by Gordon Trice

Radio Springfield:
You asked if KWTO was streamed... I think so. Check it out.
You should be able to listen on your computer. I'll be
on "Morning Line" between 9:00-10:00 am this Thursday.
(Hey, that's tomorrow!)
I'll give your book a plug and give away the copy you gave me!
Web Streamed:- Morning Line 6 am - 10 am Monday - Friday-
Local Shows (Various) 2 pm - 4 pm Monday - Friday- Other
Local Sports (Check Schedule)
http://www.radiospringfield.com/rspr-streaming-support.aspx

Dr. Fred R. Pfister
Editor: The Ozarks Mountaineer
Editorial office: 815 Lee St.
Branson, Missouri 65616
Editor's home phone: 417-334-5615
e-mail address: editor@ozarksmountaineer.com
or frpfister@suddenlink.net
http://www.ozarksmountaineer.com/
For subscription and circulation: call toll free: 1-866-784-9444
"Once an Ozarker, always an Ozarker, even if you're no longer living in the Ozarks."
Check out The Ozarks Mountaineer at http://www.ozarksmountaineer.com/.
It's the magazine that keeps your heart in the Ozarks!

Poems: Please vote for my poem, "Roads Unknown." I do appreciate you checking in at
David L Harrison's blog http://davidlharrison.wordpress.com/ Starting today you have only five days to vote.

It takes vision and courage to create-it takes faith and courage to prove. -David D. Young

Library, Friends, Booksale, OWL, College of the Ozarks:
I believe last week was my busiest ever.
15th Friends of the Library Board meeting
16th I met with three of my friends who are children’s
writers at 9:30 a.m., at Gainesville, Mo. library. It is a
special little library that is growing. We haven’t been able
to meet for several months for we live a distance from each
other. We all start out early that morning. So, each of us
brought something to eat served with coffee. What a spread
it was. We caught up on the latest publishing news, read
manuscripts and wrote down out goals.I returned home
about 2:30 p.m. Had two important phone calls: A friend
was writing an article for the paper for our upcoming booksale
and needed a quote. Our FOL president called for all of the board
members to be at the library by 4 o’clock to have our picture taken
for the newspaper.
17th I help set-up for the booksale and later I
went to the church supper where as the church historian I took
pictures.

18th I went back to the library as I forgot to bring something
home and I saw they were very busy, so I tried to help. Plus, I took
a few pictures. I had to leave about noon for I had tons of catch
work at home.

19th We went to Branson, MO to Ozarks Writers League dinner,
open mic ( I read the poem- The Angry Abused Sound.) and we
stayed overnight. We had a 7 a.m. breakfast at the Boxcar Willie Inn
and rush to sign-in by 8:30 at the OWL, College of the Ozarks to
hear two speakers.We had lunch at our favorite restaurant
in “The Keeter Center.” OWL was over at 2:30 p.m. My book is
still on display at The Ralph Foster Museum on campus. I enjoyed
taking pictures on campus. I took two 5x7 photos for the OWL contest.
I was shot down again.There was a large display of photos, paintings and crafts.
The Ozarks Writers League has many talented members.
I had a great time.I always look forward to attending every three months.

Sunday, I attended church and choir and in-between I crash.
This Monday, I learned my family was not coming
this week-end due to bad weather and my youngest brother
had a stroke. That is an emotional ride for me. We all live so far away
from each other. I am a person like my mom who loved being surrounded
by family and friends.
This week I believe I will be able to catch-up on a thing or two.

KIDS MAGAZINE WRITERS http://www.kidmagwriters.com
Read my blogging article.
Feb 24, National Tortilla Chip Day
Mike Wimmer will be at ASU-Mountain Home March 1st
Be sure to check out http://kathytemean.workpress.com
Stop Getting Rejected- read, copy, and apply.

Important Information:I have been backed in a corner or/and snowed under. What ever way you take it, I have been loaded down with work and I am trying to keep my head above water. You writers & illustrators know what I am taking about. I have a list a mile long. While I get myself organized download these newsletters from The Writer, The Writers Digest and Publishers Weekly. They will keep you informed and you can ask questions from the different people who blog on their websites. Don’t forget to check out Writer Beware’s website.
Writer Beware is where you check out people and companies if they are good or not. It is for screenwriters, song writers, illustrators, publishing companies, editors, agents and a whole lot more.
http://sfwa.org/ Writer Beware
http://accrispin.blospot.com/ Writer Beware
http://www.writermag.com/ Free newsletters where you don't need a subscription to the magazines. But remember, they are important magazines. Learn more by checking out their websites.
http://www.writersdigest.com/
http://www.publishersweekly.com/

Booksale: Baxter County Library, Mountain Home, AR is having a huge booksale, Thursday 16th, Friday 18th and Saturday 20th. Great books and great buys.

The Ozarks Writers League's quarterly meeting will be held on February 20 (Saturday) at the Plaster Auditorium on the campus of the College of the Ozarks in Branson. Membership in OWL is $20.00 until after February meeting, then it will be $25.00. One day attendees pay $10.oo
http://www.ozarkswritersleague.org/

Rescue me; Tails of pet rescue http://blogK9cuisine.com
by my friend Kerri Fivecoat Campbell who loves all animals.

A sign Cupid's Lane is posted on two trees as you enter. This is located on Scenic Highway 178 going toward Bull Shoals Dam.

Someone sure has a sense of humor. I have never been fond of this holiday since I discovered it as a child. Love is a canvas furnished by Nature and embroidered by imagination -Voltaire

Twin Lakes Writers http://www.twinlakeswriters.org meet Feb 13th 1 p.m. I have a busy month ahead of me. Sometimes I feel I am so busy I can't breathe.

Snow Poems and photographs: At 7 a.m., I was out walking to survey the beauty to see where the large fluffy snow flakes attached themselves to. The woodland wonderland sparkled. Not a twig was left without the coat of snowflake lace. I got to go and write poems of what the snow has inspired.
Beauty and the beast.

Salas & Yolen Children's Authors: If you haven't been following children's author David L Harrison's blog you are missing a very informative place to be. He continues to have other important authors & illustrator as guest on his blog. Today, Laura Salas, was the guest sharing her insight of being a writer. Also, Jane Yolen commented as she does some days. You never know who you will speak with and learn from. On the Adult Poem of the Month department, David present a monthly word and readers create a poem using that word. This month the word is "road." At the end of the month readers vote for their favorite poem. Children poets have their department to enter a poem. Each of poets involved comment on each other poems. It has been a great experience for me. Come join us !

Kids Magazine Writers: http://www.kidmagwriters.com Check this website out where you will find lots of helpful articles on how to write and break into writing for children's magazines. A huge list of magazines and updated new ones. Click on " In My Office" department to read,
Blogging is An Important Writer's Tool, by Mary Nida Smith.

Ozark Writers & illustrators for Children: http://www.owaic.org/
The Library Station, Children's Story Room, Springfield, MO
February 2nd, 9:30

Janie Cheaney will share information for online promotion and insights from a recent Kansas Writer's workshop on the subject. We'll discuss the basics of researching editors, agents and publishing houses online and using Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and other social networks to promote yourself. It's possible to build a fan base even before you publish a book!

We'll begin at 9:30 in the Children's meeting room at the Library Station (just north of the Kearney/Kansas Expressway intersection). There will be a brief business meeting before the program begins. Around 11:30 we'll have a short break, then continue with a critique session.

Contact Naomi Shaw at providencepark@wildblue.net to RSVP or if you have questions regarding our critique sessions.

Winter in the South

January 30, 2010

7 a.m.

4 degrees

9-12 iches of snow

THE DAY IT SNOWED
by Mary Nida Smith (c)

Oh, the day it snowed
I stood with my mouth open
to catch the snowflakes.
I leaned my head back
to feel the snow against my face.
I took my hands swishing
fluffy flakes back and forth
playing with them before they land.
I ran and yelled, "Snow, Snow."
I'll always remember
the day it snowed.
I twisted and turned
as I laid on the ground
feeling the snowflakes
coming down.
I'll forever remember
the first time
I saw and touched snow.

First snow for my young son when we were living in Oregon.

Doll Houses:http://nidacraftsandrecycling.blogspot.com

Snow, snow
go away.
I don't want
any ice today!

Poems and Book Series: Click on David L Harrison's blog to your right.
Vote for your favorite poem of the month. While you are there, please
read my poem. Thank you!

I discover a new author (to me she is) from a friend of mine who
wants to collect her books. The author is Mary Pope Osborne.
She wrote the Magic Tree House series. A series of 42 books. http://www.random.com/kids/magictreehouse
What is neat, she has her family involved with her work.

Agents and other helpful information: Read why your query or manuscript will be rejected by agents at http://kathytemean.wordpress.com

Illustrators: I have discovered and added Sherry Rogers to my blog list: http://sherryrogers.blogspot/ She shares a lot of helpful information on
how she does her art. Never give up on creating your art for children's
books and magazines. If you don't have time to create a picture book
dummy, create a magazine one-page. If you write poetry; write one
where you can add your illustrations. This will help you to continue
or have something to submit to an art director of a magazine or
publishing house.

Reading different artist or writer's blogs you will learn life is not
perfect and we all have our problems. But, even a little at a time
will help us achieve our goals.
Don't waste your creative energy on the negative.

Click on Widgets: Click on the widget AUTHORNOW on this blog and click on JACKFLAP widget to glean more information at http://belarcowritersworkshop.blogspot.com/ Two very informative places to learn more about the writing business.

ELIMINATING CLUTTER AND STRESS: January is the month many writers are in the organizing mode. If you can keep your office under control it will allow more time to write, and less time searching for information you know you have, but where? I wrote an article on that subject a couple of years ago. It was first published in the SCBWI/Missouri newsletter "MO Scribbles," Ozarks Writers League newsletter, and "Fine LInes" SCBWI Australian Chapter newsletter. It has been in their archives until this year. They have a beautiful new website http://www.scbwiaustralia.org/. I may have to submit it to the Missouri Writers Guild to place on their website.

Writers Workshop Reminder: http://belarcowritersworkshop.com

Winter Poem      

BEYOND MY WINDOW

By Mary Nida Smith

Before dawn magic
took wings
beyond my window.
When I looked out
into my garden
I saw the tree branches
dressed in bridal wear
under a canopy of blue.
Branches reached outward
displaying garments
of white crystal beads.
The bright sun rushes in
with a guest named Breeze.
Suddenly the white crystals
turn into sparkling diamonds,
floating slowly to the ground,
covering guest foot prints
like ghostly vapors
disappear from camera’s view.

Sara Webb Quest, author and freelance writer at her recent book signing at Books by the Sea, South Yarmouth, MA http://www.authorsden.com/ where you will find more
information on Sara. Congratulations Sara! Great photo.

Also check at Twin Lakes Writers website for information on Saturday, Jan 9 meeting.http://www.twinlakeswriters.org/ 

Illustrators: If you are beginning to find your way into the business of illustrating for the children's market and you are not sure where to begin here is a suggestion. Look out your window - write a short poem/verse about the weather of the day. Illustrate several drawings to reflect your poem on one page or a spread of two pages. You can file it until you feel you have done your best, then submit to a children's magazine. Buy the CHILDREN'S WRITER'S & ILLUSTRATOR'S MARKET BOOK or check out one at your library. All the children's magazines are listed at KIDS MAGAZINE WRITERS http://www.kidmagwriters.com/. I will have an article published in this emagazine - Feb. issue.

WRITING: JANUARY FOCUS
Writing projects: Now don’t dream too high.
Placing your goals too high can give
you a headache.

1. One day at a time.
2. Start with the most finished piece: Finish it!
3. Reread, revise until it is publishable.
4. Search for a publisher and editor. Don’t give up!
5. Write a query or cover letter depending
on the finished project.
6. Mail
7. Start second project

I see 7 goals – while doing them, don’t think
of everyday duties while in the studio/office.
This can be the number one stress factor
that will keep a person from being productive.

Remember as a child we had to learn to walk
one step at a time. Take a deep breath and enjoy the moment.
(c) Mary Nida Smith

SUNRISE

The sunrises on the upcoming new year
above The Woodland Garden,
like bright Spring flowers
announcing an exciting year ahead.
Be thankful for the small joys,
sing their praises each day.
For they are the stepping stones
into a happy world
of what is to come.
Photo - Verse  (c) by Mary Nida Smith                       

Poem of the month: Please go to children's book author's blog http://davidlharrison.wordpress.com to vote for the best poem written for December. My poem is listed: BONE CHILLING. Each month David provides a word and the different poets write that word into their poem. Last month the word was "thanks".

MERRY CHRISTMAS
AND A HEALTHY NEW YEAR.

I am sitting out the next few days.
Write, create, and enjoy life.

(c) Photo by Mary Nida Smith

Mistakes! Mistakes!

I have been presenting
grammar mistakes to all.
I know better.
I must slow down
and take another look.
Oh, I could present a page
of why my brain is overloaded,
but this is no excuse.
It causes me to pause
to feel more humble.
I’ll never be perfect.
I am who I am.
- Mary Nida Smith

Children's Poetry and Twin Lakes Writers:

I want to thank President Nancy Thatcher Cerny,
and members of the Twin Lakes Writers for the certificate
of appreciation for being the founder and for supporting
of all writers. Thank You!

I have enjoyed reading two poetry books for children
that any adult would enjoy. They are funny and serious; mostly
funny where they take you back to see yourself as a kid.
As an adult with a kid lurking about; meaning me; a kid that
was and is still asking too many questions, the poem below
relates to me, written by Arnold Spilka.

Don’t Tell Me That I Talk Too Much!

Don’t tell me I talk too much!
Don’t say it!
Don’t you dare!
I only say important things
Like why it’s raining where.
Or when or how or why or what
Might happen here or there.
And why a thing is this or that
And who is bound to care.
So don’t tell me I talk too much!
Don’t say it!
DON’T YOU DARE!

The above is found in The Random House Book
of Poetry for Children (A Treasury of 572 Poems for Today’s Child)
selected by Jack Prelutsky and illustrated by Arnold Lobel
(Filled with wonderful illustrations.).

I remember one time a member of my family quickly
sneaked up behind me implementing another use for duct tape.

Another good read is Kids Pick the Funniest Poems by Bruce
Lansky and illustrated by Stephen Carpenter.

TWIN LAKES WRITERS
PO Box 256
Clarksridge, AR 72623
http://www.twinlakeswriters.org/
Meeting: Saturday, December 12
1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH
Room D, 353 Highway 5 North
Mountain Home
870-425-6071
Large church sign on Highway 5, a block past 201 intersection.

Their works are on display for the month of December at the
Baxter County Library. Check them out. Very informative display.

Contest, Book Winner, Follower and Flash Fiction; Check out a contest at http://donnasbookpub.bogspot.com and then go to http://crackleofspeech.blogspot.com where you can read- Flash Fiction: The Spiral Staircase written by Steven Withrow, published on his blog October 29th.

Yesterday, I received an email from Meghan Killeen, that I had won the book The Pricker Boy by Reade Scott Whinnen. Click on http://www.rubywinkle.com to read Meghan's interview with Reade and my comment about my own personal monster.

I am most grateful for another follower.
I am enjoying writing poetry on David Harrison blog. http://davidlharrison.wordpress.com. If you enjoy poetry, stop in and read all the poems that have been submitted.

Writers Workshop: Write What You Know. Click on http://belarcowritersworkshops.blogspot.com for information on January 16, 2010 workshop. Signing up for a workshop, visiting with other writers will unfreeze writers' block and lift your spirits during the winter. So, come, join us where it will give you a jump start for Spring's upcoming workshops and conferences.

Sara Webb Quest: Children's book author
& freelance writer. Congratulation's Sara-great review!
Wow, I'm still reeling over the recent book review of my
"AYDIL VICE" book in THE BARNSTABLE PATRIOT. Here is a
link to the review:

http://www.barnstablepatriot.com/home2/index.
php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19359&Itemid=62
The review was a very pleasant surprise! Marie, the amazing
book buyer & manager of Cape Cod's book-store chain "Books by
the Sea," called,informed me of the review, said she hadn't
gotten the copy of "AYDIL VICE" back because a few people at
the newspaper were passing the book around to read (another
pleasant surprise)Best for last, here are the dates and
times for my book(s) signings this month:

December 12, 11-1, Books by the Sea, rte.28, South Yarmouth,
The Hearth-n-Kettle Plaza.
December 13, 2-4, Books by the Sea, Osterville
In addition to signing "AYDIL VICE," I will also be signing
my adult poetry book "OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD."

A link to my facebook page which I update regularly.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/album.php?aid=32187&id=1640091720

Ozarks Writers and Illustrators for Children!

Our OWAIC, social will be Saturday, December 5th, at the Library
Station 9:00 to 11:00. We've had a wonderful year. Please join us
in celebrating our breakthroughs, our accomplishments, and blessings.

Refreshments will be provided. There will be a modest gift exchange.
And I do mean modest...white elephants and regifting allowed.
(It should have something to do with writing or illustrating.)


There will not be a meeting in January due to the New Year's holiday.

Please contact me, Naomi Shaw at providencepark@wildblue.net

Robert Frost wrote in metaphors/free verse. "A poem...begins as a lump in the throat, a sense of wrong, a homesickness, a lovesickness. It is a reaching-out toward expression; an effort to find fulfillment. A complete poem is one where an emotion finds the thought and the thought finds the words."
Letter to Louis Untermeyer (January 1, 1916)

Poets, Authors, Contest, Children’s Magazines,
Newspaper, OWL:

I love the freedom to enjoy life where I explore
various creative topics. My mind is like a sticky,
tight spun spider web. I catch ideas out of the air,
causing some strain until I am able to release a
few to paper. I am constantly writing and rewrite
on paper or in my daily thoughts. Who knows,
I may have a big sale and it will be like winning
the lotto.

I write short pieces; I sell some and others
float free. In 2010, I am dedicating more time
to submitting larger pieces.

A photo and a small article was published in
The Mountaineer Echo newspaper, Thurs, Nov 26, it
was a shot of encouragement.
http://www.flippinonline.com

I am still trying to catch-up with photos
I took as my church's historian.
I think I take too many.

I am having problems creating CD’s
for the submarine veterans I did two.
I haven’t been able to do more. I have
several request for the 53 photos I took
during the Veterans Day event at Mountain
Home Military Memorial Plaza.

Baxter County Library: The Friends of the Library
had a successful booksale last weekend and an
enjoyable meeting Wednesday. They are a special group.
We hope to move into the new library July, 2010.

The Mountain Home, AR Chamber of Commerce’s
beautiful new brochure mentioned Twin Lakes Writers
under Community Cultures.

I continue to write poems on David L. Harrison’s blog.
It has been a learning experience. I have written several.
He features a monthly word and you have to write a
poem incorporating that word. The poems for November
are up where you can go and vote for your favorite at
http://davidlharrison.wordpress.com

Last Friday night at Boxcar Willie’s Motel
the Ozarks Writers League had a catered dinner
and open-mic. I read a poem.

I receive “The Writer” magazine newsletter.
It filled with helpful information and some free-lance
writing jobs are listed.

Important websites to check out:
http://www.kidmagwriters.com
http://www.smartwriters.com
http://www.poets.org
http://www.jackflap.com

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

(C) by Mary Nida Smith

Websites and blogs  to Inspire you.

http://www.lindacapple.com/

http://livinglargeinourlittlehouse.com/

http://myfaithproject.com/

Baxter County Library booksale November 19,20, 21. It is a big one!

Saturday, November 21, Ozarks Writers League http://www.ozarkswritersleague.org

Poets:
Check out "Golden Country" on the website!
www.ozarksmountaineer.com
The outhouse/potting shed photo was photographed
by Mary Nida Smith.

Sunrise: This morning shroud in misty fog a dazzling coral red and gold sunrise filtered through the woods rising above the tree line. I dashed for my camera where I tried to capture each changing moment. I would love to use my ever changing sky photos in a poetry book, or children's picture book. Happy is the moment capturing memories.

Faye K. Pfister
Pottery Exhibit
November 12-20
College of the Ozarks
Boger Gallery: Jones Learning Center
Lecture-Reception: November 17 (Tuesday)
4:00 p.m—6:00 p.m.

LIFE ON A SEESAW VOLUME III Premieres November 14, 2009 at WORDS BOOKSTORE in Hardy, AR.

REVIEWS:
Marjory Wentworth, (South Carolina) Poet Laureate of South Carolina; teacher of poetry in an arts and healing program in Charleston, SC; columnist for THE CHARLESTON POST and COURIER; member of Board of Directors for Low Country Initiative for the Literary Arts, the Poetry Society of SC, and the University of SC Poetry Society; Poems have appeared in numerous books and magazines

“Life on a Seesaw is a refreshingly original heartfelt approach to life.”

Barbara Massie (Arkansas) noted floral watercolor and acrylic artist; holds dual membership in the National League of American Pen Women as both a writer and an artist; charter President and current Treasurer of the Spring River Branch of NLAPW; published 400 plus articles and six books

“This last volume of the Circle of Life Trilogy, Life on a Seesaw Volume III, is an adventure that captures imagination as you walk through and relate to the seesawing events in life. The inspiring writings and art are not to be absorbed in one reading. You’ll go back many times to view Funke’s paintings and re-read Oplinger’s written images. Funke and Oplinger create the true essence of real happenings”.

Nancy Funderburk, (New York and Mississippi) nationally acclaimed needle and fiber artist; McCall’s Quilt for The Cure Campaign for the Susan Konan Foundation; award-winning instructor and Past-President of the Mississippi Quilt Association

Premieres November 14, 2009 at WORDS BOOKSTORE in Hardy, AR
LIFE ON A SEESAW VOLUME III

Veterans Day Ceremony, Nov 11, at 11:oo am,
Mountain Home Square.
The history of Veterans Day can be found at http://www.military.com/

PEACE

PEACE

PEACE

Harrison Contest, OWAIC, Bookstores, Photos:

Was I surprised yesterday to learn I had won a contest for posting on
David L. Harrison, blog. David is a children's book author of many
books and a poet. http://davidlharrison.wordpress.com/ David
is critiquing a picture book manuscript for me. I feel so honored.

Ozarks Writers & Illustrators Club http://www.owaic.org/ Great
bunch of writers and my friend Veda Boyd Jones is their speaker
Saturday, November 7th.
Also, remember this day is - Support your Bookstore Day.

Yesterday, in the sunshine of the day, I planted 8-10 Hostas
that was given to me by a neighbor. I love pass-on plants.
Also, I planted two mums. Yes, I had to rake leaves.
When my daughter walked in leaves as a young
child she said the crunching sound, like cornflakes.

As our church historian & photographer, I took 73 pictures
last Saturday at the "Trunk & Treat." I have to have some
printed by this Sunday.

This afternoon I go to the dentist-the big chair- Ouch!

Halloween, Publishers Weekly, David L. Harrison, Library, Art Show, Turkey Vultures:

October Fun

Happy is the Halloween
that is scary and mean.
Dark moon and starlight
witches ride in teams.
Beware of hidden faces,
ghosts, goblins and spooks
in light shaded places.
Halloween is gobbledygook.
Remember it is all for fun
silly with pumpkins
and not for everyone.

By Mary Nida Smith (c) (c) Mary Nida Smith

Four days ago, I signed up at http://www.publishersweekly.com/ for their daily email newsletter. Every writer should sign up to keep updated. Oct 29, newsletter had a article, "What do Teens Want?" by Carol Fitzgerald. Josie Leavitt has a regular informative blog, " Shelftalker: A Children's Bookseller's Blog." You can sign up for genre newsletters.

Vote for your favorite "Dirt" poem at http://davidlharrison.wordpress.com/. My poem is tucked among the dirt poems. I was informed that I had David blog address incorrect. I always forget to place the small L after davidl It is difficult to see.

Last week end just for fun I entered 3 photographs in the Bull Shoals Art Show. My photos have been published in several magazines and I did win a photo contest while living at Siloam Springs, AR. My last photo was published in the Ozarks Mountaineer Magazine Nov/Dec issue.

It was exciting this morning to look up above the tree tops in The Woodland Garden to watch the Turkey vultures fly over. They roost in near-by trees. I also enjoy watching them slowly fly in late afternoon.

Every Halloween The Woodland Garden comes alive with spooks. The spooks will stay hidden this year because of the rain. Can you believe it, the spooks are afraid of melting.

I LOVE MY LIBRARY!

Saturday Writers: Short story contest sponsored by
Saturday Writers, a chapter of the Missouri Writers Guild.
The extended deadline is Nov 15.
Please pass to your writing friends.
Thanks,
Donna Volkenannt
Saturday Writers Website Editor
www.saturdaywriters.org
http://donnasbookpub.blogspot.com/
http://donnamariev.wordpress.com/

Kerri Fivecoat-Campbell, a local freelance writer and author, will offer a 6-week facilitated writers group at The Belle Writer’s Studio, located on her property near Pine Mountain in rural Marion County. The group will begin meeting the week of November 9, either on Tuesday or Thursday, the exact date and time to be determined, based on participant interest and availability. The group will meet once a week to critique each other’s work and Kerri will provide written feedback on writing samples submitted by members. This will be a mixed genre group and all writers are welcome. Cost is $40 for 6 weeks.

Kerri is a former adjunct professor at Johnson County Community College in the Kansas City area, where she wrote curriculum for writing classes, and taught and facilitated writing groups for 6 years. Kerri’s work has appeared in such publications as Mother Earth News, Entrepreneur Magazine, Arkansas Life, Aol.com, Forbes.com, and MSN.com., and she’s written the book, “No Immediate Threat: The story of an American Veteran.”

For more information, contact her through her website, www.writeforyou.biz or call her at 870-436-3860.

Garden Visit: I entered The Woodland Garden on October 19th
on a rare day where the sunshine sparkled through the colorful
autumn leaves. The tree trunks are turning dark as they prepare
for their winter rest. My thoughts on The Woodland Garden:

Mary, Mary quiet contrary how does your garden grow?
My garden grows in weeds you see, they come up
where they entangle me.

I pulled and pulled with all my strength,
the tall, Blue-eyed grass growing thick on the bank
of my wild woodland garden.

I spent three hours a pulling and enjoying
the fresh outdoor air. The birds flew in singing me songs
of welcome, welcome back.

The squirrels hopped by. The chipmunks peek out.
They all thanked me for entering the world
I created for all creatures; including me.
.

Ozarks Writers & Illustrators Club http://www.owaic.org/ Great bunch of writers and my friend Veda Boyd Jones is their November speaker. If weather permits - GO.

Hello Friends,

It is my great pleasure to announce Veda Boyd Jones has agreed to present a program on writing historical fiction for our November 7th program. Veda is the author of forty-two books, five of them historical fiction, and a popular speaker.You can visit Veda's website at http://www.vedaboydjones.com/

Please join us from 9:00 to 11:00 at The Library Station at 2535 N. Kansas Exprwy, Springfield, Missouri, in the Children's Storyroom.

A critique session will follow.

See you soon,
Naomi Shaw

Autumn Leaf

photo by Mary Nida Smith(c)

Bright as the sunshine today,

lay an autumn leaf

on cold-weather moss.

Spreading moss collects

a colorful bouquet

of changing colors,

beyond the garden gate.

-(c) by Mary Nida Smith