About Me
Yes, my name really is Nutschell (my friends back in the Philippines used to call me “Nuts”)—and I am a Writing Nut– hence the title of this blog.
I’ve always been nuts about writing, but I never had the inclination to take it seriously. But I woke up one day and realized that life is too short for “could have beens” or “what ifs”. So I decided to fulfill a dream I’ve had since I was a little girl with pigtails (yes, I did wear pigtails once) –to write a book and become a published author.
Since I took the leap into the world of writing, my life has changed drastically.
I’ve learned that writing is all about People—the people we meet who inspire our stories, the people we write our stories for, and the people who help our writing dreams come true.
Thanks to this gained wisdom, I’ve started this blog, finished a middle grade contemporary fantasy novel and young adult urban fantasy novel, and I’ve also become an active member of the writing community.
I joined the SCBWI (Society for Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators. Currently I’m a member of the SCBWI-L.A. Board, acting as the Contest Coordinator. I also attend various book signings in the area, and have recently joined the Write On to Build On group, to make sure I keep on writing.
More importantly, I founded the Children’s Book Writers of Los Angeles (CBW-LA) , and we are currently in the process of taking it non-profit.
Of course, aside from these various writing group members, I continue to learn about the craft of writing by reading volumes upon volumes of children’s books, fantasy books, and books on writing; and by attending various writing conferences and workshops.
Although writing is my passion, and takes up majority of my time, I also have other interests which I pursue, and I find that they improve my writing immensely. After all, the best way to come up with story-worthy ideas is to live a story-worthy life.
12 Random Facts About Me
1. I graduated from college with a BA in Psychology.
2. After graduating from college, I went back to High School—this time as an English Teacher.
3. I’m currently working as an accounting clerk, even though I hated Math all throughout my school years.
4. I train with the Los Angeles Doce Pares in the Multi-Style Filipino Martial Art of Escrima. I now know how to fight with sticks, knives, swords and yes, my bare hands—comes in handy when writing action scenes for my novels. 
Los Angeles Doce Pares
5. I enjoy singing and playing the guitar. I was a member of the Faculty Choir and the Faculty Band back when I taught at Miriam College High School in the Philippines.
With Faculty Bandmates, 2005
6. I’ve always loved Photography. One day I hope to take actual lessons, but for now I’m a self-taught Photography-junkie.
Salisbury, England 2010, photo by Maiko
7. I can play the drums. Not as well as I’d like, but good enough to drive the cats away.
8. I love playing B sports—Basketball, Badminton, and Bowling. I have yet to try Baseball.
9. I used to play a lot of pool (billiards). In fact, I have my very own pool sticks.
10. I can draw/sketch. I love sketching with pencils and charcoal.
Church, 3-17-07
Eagle, 3-17-07
11. I love traveling.
Stonehenge, 2010
12. I can make some mean desserts. My leche flan, marshmallow cloud cookies and oreo cheesecake are to die for.
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… and to add to your description: an inspiring student and teacher… after all you were the recipient of the Best in English Award during your high school graduation.
As your former teacher, I am very confident that you will achieve your goal! Good luck & God bless!
Thanks, Tita Badette. It helps that I had the best English Teacher.
Nutschie
Dette Congratulations!
I’m a writer and independent publisher in Playa del Rey. I’d love to attend your next writers group, when is it? Please call me to get acquainted 310 *******.
Nuts. Congrats!
Congratulations and best of luck in everything you do!
I am very proud of you, my friend!
Kay,
Thanks so much for your kind words. Know that I am proud of you,too!
I like your website. I found it on meetup.com when I was looking for writer groups.
Hey Aaron!
I’m glad you found us and thank you for your kind words about my website. I look forward to meeting you at our next meetup event.
Hi there,
I’m a friend of one of the authors you interviewed recently – Allison Burnett. That was a fabulous interview. One of the best I’ve come across in years – well done.
You’re bound for a great writing future. Keep going !
Regards
Peter
(London UK)
Hi Peter,
Wow. Thank you so much for your kind words! It definitely made my day!
warm regards,
Nutschell
Hi! I found your blog when I googled for a photo of Elle Fanning. You’ve got a lovely theme here!
Hi Jenn!
Thanks for your kind words! Please feel free to look around. I checked out your website as well. I love that you’re a freelance writer for the Philippine Daily Inquirer. I haven’t read that newspaper in forever. Do keep in touch!
So nice to connect with another children’s writer. Way back in 1985 I spent a wonderful summer in the Philippines–in Cebu City. I’d love to go back. I’m sure your time there gave you lots to write about!
~Debbie
Hi Debbie,
That’s one thing I love about blogging. I get to meet other wonderful writers out there (and I don’t even have to leave my desk!). So glad to have checked out your blog as well. I’ve already subscribed.
this is it nuts!!! i’m behind you all the way. though we’re oceans apart i’ll be the first person to buy your books when you publish them.(hope i’d get a friendly discount.) congrats!!! mk
Cherry,
With friends like you behind me, I don’t doubt that I’ll make it. Love you!
What a fantastic website! Everything is top notch. If you aren’t already, this site should be generating some revenue!!! You are definitely on the road to success.
Hi Melanie!
Thanks so much for your kind words! One of these days I do hope to generate some revenue (writing is not a financially glamorous career and any amount would help), but for now i’m simply enjoying the simple act of writing.
nuts dear!!! great work you have here! i’m glad you’re on your way to fulfilling your dream. but it urge you to continue dreaming. if you are doing what is good, then your dreams will fall short. hope to see you again!!! love yah!
Thanks Ms G! Hope to see you again too! luv ya!
haha! a typo there on”it”. should have been “i”. sorry.
I saw you on the A-Z Blogging Challenge blog and am a new follower…you have a great blog! I’ve really enjoyed looking around. I also want to have my books published. Good luck with your middle grade book!
Great looking blog! Can’t wait to dive in more!
I noticed your name on JuneBug’s blog & thought you might be interested in participating in WEEKWORD this week, I’m hosting, so you would need to stop by my blog & leave me a note that you’d like to post your interpretation of the word, ANTICIPATION… it’s a creative nudge that someone hosts each week – quite fun, you get to meet new bloggers, and people will visit your blog to see what you have posted. More info is located on my 4/3/11 posting.
[...] Nutschell [...]
Hi there, Lizzy Ford sent me
You have a wonderful site, it is really inspiring and educational. I wish you happiness and joy..
Thanks Josie! I’ll have to thank lizzy!
I just love your “about me”. Your story is so encouraging! I, too, have wanted to be a published author for as long as I can recall. I feel like I’m finally beginning to have the belief that it will truly happen and to develop the discipline necessary to get there. You have great info on your site, and I look forward to visiting some more. Best wishes on your fantasy novel!
Thanks Monica!
Your kind comments have made my day.:)
Hi Nutschell!
It’s nice to see a former student doing what she loves doing. Congratulations! Keep it up and take care!
hi ate nutchie
im so happy and proud for you found your site because of tita nannette
Hi Ate Nuts,
I guess now I have the privilege to call you “ate” instead of “miss” since we’re not in school (MC) anymore. I hope you can still recall me by name or at least remember me by face.
I never had the chance to be your student; though I’m glad I encountered you because of CMA (Campus Ministry Auxiliary) when you became our speaker when we had our retreat back in 2005, I think. Anyway, I just came across your website because I saw the link in your face book. I’m starting to read your blogs and I’m really enjoying it, especially your write-ups about your England trip. Kudos! 
I also read that you’re starting to write your own story book, good luck on that! 
I’ll wait for your book to be published in the near future and support you even though we’re oceans apart. 
Continue doing what you love and keep on dreaming & believing. God bless you & your family! 
- AGBA -
This blog is amazing, you are helping without knowing me.Thank you
.Kevstar
Loved reading about you! We have something in common. People call me “nuts” a lot, too. lol
So great to meet you
I love the writers in the blogsphere so diverse and fresh
best with all you do
cute blog. What a great last name! My last name is Ball and my blog is Adventures in the Ballpark. It’s fun to have something to play off.
Good luck with all your writing dreams!
Hi! I visited your blog cause I found your comment on mine! I like to visit everyones blog who comments! Thank you for visiting!! As far as your #1, you’d have a ton of fun with our family!! hahaha…
..thanks for visiting me and your comment regarding Ramlösa … not surprised that you have heard about it. Only 10% goes on export, but for me there is no water like it and I have been drinking water all over the world. Welcome come back.
hi Nuts, this is Jokel, the one behind the “a thotful spot” blog. I just dropped by to thank you for visiting in my blog. I just saw your comment on my entry for the letter J.. and replied to your question on why my blog is spelled that way.
hi Nutschell, Thanks for visiting my blog. Interesting profile.. Nice to know you. A-z blogging challenge..
YOU are so pretty. Just saying.
T
Hi Nutschell,
I came over to read Lee’s guest post. Now I’m following you! Great site.
Catherine Catherine Stine’s Idea City
I love your about me Nutschell! Great page.
Hi Nutshell
Thank you for responding to my review request. I would like to send you either a paperback or ebook. Can you provide me with your email address and or postal address. You can find me at julie.grasso@optusnet.com.au
I look forward to hearing from you, chees
Great source for writing but I really like your sketches. The one of the church is beautiful!
What an amazing presentation, it’s almost impossible not to like you
. You are a very lovely and interesting person and I am very glad I have discovered you 
.
Hey, I love your site and really admire your ambitious nature and way you just “get things done”
) about books and writing. Not sure I see a contact here anywhere. Can you email me maybe? Hope to hear from you! Thanks
I would love to chat (i.e. ask a ton of questions, I’m lost
Jill