Ruby Moon-Houldson Shares Pics of Star Trek Memories!

Ruby and Spock Tells the World About More Than Angels


Ruby Enjoying Time at Star Trek Shows!

Ruby and "Scotty"


Ruby Joins the Enterprise Team - Yikes! Where is Spock!

A Moment Like This - Spotlight Author Ruby Moon-Houldson Shares Star Trek Moments!

You know the song sung by Kelly Clarkson titled, “A Moment Like This”? Well, I’ve felt that way several times over the last few years. The words in the chorus echo the awe inspiring moments I’ve experienced. The words in that song are:

A moment like this
Some people wait a lifetime,
For a moment like this
Some people search forever,
For that one special kiss
Oh, I can't believe it's happening to me
Some people wait a lifetime,
For a moment like this


What do you mean by this? you may ask. Well, I’ve been a fan of Star Trek ever since I was about seven years old. (The original cast members were my heroes). I’d take every opportunity that presented itself where I could sneak some time to watch the original series episodes on the small black and white television we had. I did so when my dad wasn’t around. He hated the show. He said the show was “bunk” and full of crazy ideas. He always said that nothing on there would ever happen. (So does that mean we don’t have automatic doors at the stores? I’m dreaming that? Or does it mean we really don’t have cell phones? Another dream on my part??) My mom said Spock looked like the devil. So you get the picture—in my house, Star Trek was off limits for it was junk pure and simple. If I was caught watching such trash then I was in trouble, big time.

But that didn’t change my mind on the matter. I loved the show. I loved the moral that Gene Roddenberry intermixed with each episode. My dad made me read Aesop’s Fables when I was growing up. I felt that watching Star Trek was no different. Each had a moral to the story that one could learn and live by. My favorite character was Spock. I loved him because he was smart. I wanted to be smart. I cherished my education and I loved to read and learn new, interesting things. He was a man after my own heart. I felt that if I could be like Spock then I could win half the battle of getting through this thing called life. Also, Spock was an outcast—among his people and even in Starfleet to a certain extent. He was always searching for his place in life. That reflected my own situation as a child. We were alike in many ways—I could relate to him. But of course, he was much braver than I.

So, throughout my life I worked hard at my studies, advancing in my classes, and was on the honor roll every year; and finally in the top five percent of my graduating class. I carried this on into my college life, receiving scholarships for good grades, and then finally graduating Summa Cum Laude in post graduate school where I received my PhD in Psychology and Forensic Science.

So what has that to do with Star Trek and the song I mentioned above, “A Moment Like This’? Well, it’s this….I became an actual part of the Star Trek world. Without much warning, I found myself enmeshed in the very heart of Star Trek and all that it entailed. Spock, the “devil” as my mom called him, has actually stood next to me, sat next to me—well, in his rightful form as Leonard Nimoy. I met Gene Roddenberry, who created Star Trek, and now I work for his son. I’ve met all the original Star Trek cast. I’ve received gifts from some of them—my most cherished possession being the IDIC charm that I wear every day. (This is mentioned in the “More Than Angels” series that I have written.). I received the IDIC charm from Deforest Kelley (Dr. McCoy) a long time ago. He offered some words of wisdom with that present, and I’ve taken those words to heart. Leonard Nimoy’s signature is upon the IDIC charm that I wear.

A few years back I was allotted the rare privilege to read and offer input into Walter Koenig’s (Chekov) movie manuscript, Illegal Alien. I still have the copy of the signed manuscript he sent to me. I wrote a speech for Nichelle Nichols for when she spoke at the Great Bird of the Galaxy Celebration out in El Paso, Texas—an event honoring Gene Roddenberry and his vision. I also wrote a “Great Bird of the Galaxy” Tribute piece in honor of Gene Roddenberry. (You can find that piece on Roddenberry’s website at: http://www.roddenberry.com/communityblogs/index/detail?id=288. I wrote the bios for that event and for the Tribute to James Doohan Celebration event that took place in Hollywood, CA. And I was present at both of those momentous occasions. I had the rare privilege of staying backstage where I mingled with the Star Trek stars and special guests—those guests included people like Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Martin Cooper (cell phone creator).

I’ve been given a special table for book signings whenever I’ve attended certain Star Trek cons. One time I sat next to Majel Barrett Roddenberry, Gene Roddenberry’s wife. Majel played Nurse Christine Chapel on the original Star Trek series, and played Lwaxana Troi on The Next Generation. She was as sweet as can be and told one funny story after another.

When James Doohan’s (Scotty of Star Trek) Celebration event was taking place in Hollywood, CA, during an evening meal I sat with his family and heard stories about Jimmie’s life with his family. The next day I had the privilege of joining George Takei and Grace Lee Whitney (Janice Rand of Star Trek) on The Next Generation bridge film set. I ate ice cream and strawberries while sitting in Captain Jean Luc Picard’s captain’s chair. How cool! I had a video camera with me and got it all on tape!!

During the time I was backstage with James Doohan out in El Paso, TX, I watched out for him while he sat in his power chair. We looked at Michael David Ward’s rendition of the “Great Bird of the Galaxy” painting, which Michael had painted on glass with a unique technique called reverse-glass painting. I also met one of the co-discoverers of the Hale-Bopp comet, Alan Hale. He had part of his telescope with him and was getting James Doohan’s signature on it.

In honor of James Doohan (Scotty), I wrote a piece titled, “Beam Me Up Scotty…One Last Time.” This piece was featured in the program book for the event, alongside a print of world renowned artist, Michael David Ward. This piece was quickly adopted by several online groups as a commemorative piece for collectors. And while I was in Hollywood, CA, I did present a copy of my Tribute book (A Tribute to James Doohan) to James Doohan and his family. I was drawn on the stage and stood before a packed room (hundreds of people) and told everyone how Scotty had influenced my life. How many people get a chance to do that in their lifetime?? I’ve also created Trek pic videos—some of which are on YouTube.

I attend a Star Trek convention every now and then. I conduct book signings at them, too. Sometimes I’m afforded my own ‘body guard’ of sorts when I’m in certain cons. That person is in charge of keeping me safe while I’m wandering about the convention grounds. That’s kind of neat.

I have tons of memorabilia at home, items signed by various Star Trek cast members. I am the proud owner of the only book copy of, “A Tribute to James Doohan,” that was signed by James Doohan and other surviving original series cast members. That book has been set behind glass so the signatures will not be smudged. I have a Tribble signed by William Shatner, a computer mouse signed by James Doohan, and a phaser signed by Denise Crosby and Jonathan Frakes.

I am privileged to write for Roddenberry. I work for an Entertainment Company out of CA that has a hand in hosting Star Trek Celebration events. In this way I get to connect with those who I watched on television when I was a child (the Star Trek actors), connect with those who were just figures on a small television screen. I never dreamed that I’d actually meet them one day, that I’d actually touch them. And blow me over with a feather—that I’d actually write a speech that one of them would read before the world.

How about picture taking tips? Photography is one of my hobbies. Nimoy has offered me some tips, seeing that he loves photography, too. I’ve reaped rewards from his wisdom in that I’ve won “Best of Show” awards and ribbons for my work when I’ve entered my photographs in various contests. My pictures are on book covers, too. And speaking of Nimoy, one of the recent interviews I conducted as an assignment for Roddenberry was an interview with Leonard in regards to his latest photography endeavors.

So the chorus to that song….
Oh, I can't believe it's happening to me. Some people wait a lifetime, for a moment like this…

That fits my life to a “T”. I’ve met my heroes, talked with them, worked for them, and have even sat down and eaten a meal with them. And Leonard Nimoy is just as wonderful as he seems. He’s smart and has a great sense of humor. There’s a lot of Spock there inside him…and he acknowledges that fact with pleasure.

All this, and my own childhood story, led me to writing my favorite book series, “More Than Angels.” This series is based in part on my life and how I looked up to my heroes. A copy of my first book is signed by Nimoy himself…and he has copies of both books in the series. I’m now writing book 3.

Thinking back to Nimoy, about two years ago I worked with Nimoy and his art agent in obtaining a signed print (made directly from Nimoy’s dark room with his own hands) from Nimoy’s Shekinah series. That print, along with a note from Nimoy, is now displayed in the new Library in my hometown. It’s the only Library I know of that has an original Nimoy print mounted on its wall, along with a personal message.

I travel a lot when working with various companies in connection with Star Trek events. Places I go and things I see then become a part of some book that I write. I guess I should say that my writing career began in high school. When I was in the eleventh grade I wrote a one-page paper about what I’d like to do with my summer. It was supposed to be a fantasy story. For me, that paper encompassed the Star Trek world. And that paper started me on the road to writing in the Star Trek universe—with a lot of support from my English teacher. (I have put together 5 Star Trek reference/tribute books, with two more yet to be released. Also, I’ve written two Trek novels.) To hear the television interview about this you can visit this link: http://rubymoon.ning.com/video/my-tv-interview

So, there you have it. A childhood dream whisks me across the stars to a dream come true. I’d never in a million years believed that I’d be doing what I am today, or that I would meet all the people that I have. I thank everyone who made it possible. I also thank all the Star Trek actors who make me feel welcome when we chance to meet and work together.

So, for those of you who believe dreams can’t come true…they can. It may take time and work, but some part of your dream can be realized in some way. And as I learned….’some people wait a lifetime for a moment like this.’

And oh, what a moment it’s been!


Ruby Moon-Houldson

www.rubymoon.ning.com
www.rubymoonhouldson.com

Is This Cool...Or What! Writer's GetAWay!

WHAT IS IT???


Traveling along Highway 59 just south of Linton, IN, several eyes have alighted upon a curiosity sitting tall in a yard along the highway. The question asked is: WHAT IS IT?

The object…a 12x12x12 foot pylon-shaped building. A pylon looks like a pyramid but with the top cut straight across instead of being pointed. What is the building used for? Answer: It’s a quiet getaway spot for area author, Ruby Moon-Houldson.

When a critical or delicate point for a work in progress has been reached then Ruby can take a few steps out of her house and seclude herself for a time in a special atmosphere that will inspire creativity for her work.

The interior is unique–that of the author’s design. It includes neon lighted accessories, glow-in-the-dark wallpaper (stars and constellations), and blacklight reflective carpeting. Much of the building materials and interior decorating supplies were purchased from local merchants–Diana’s Wall Paper, and Ross’ Floor Store to name a couple. A few specialty retailers contacted the owner and contributed items for the project seeing that it was such a unique undertaking. A special gift from Nimoy—an autographed photo print from his ‘Shekinah’ series—hangs on the south wall.

To see the building click on the following link: http://rubymoon.ning.com/video/rubys-building (or the title of this article)

The entire outer shell is covered with smooth aluminum sheeting (a product available from the Amish), and held together with stainless steel screws. Erecting the building proved to be quite a challenge for the main builder. All he had to go by was a picture and a paper model–there were no building plans to be found on the Internet or through any other building construction source.

Careful planning and several long hours went into erecting this unique building which does indeed have electricity and air conditioning. Construction of this writer’s getaway took about 5 months to complete.

Now it is not uncommon for authors to have their own unique writing hideaway. There are some writers whose “hideaway” décor includes a mausoleum look, an Egyptian type atmosphere, outer space, or a jungle scene. Every writer is unique and so is their writing space.

So if you’re ever driving past a “pylon” like building south of Linton, IN, just know that a creative mind is probably hard at work there. For those who are in the area and are curious about the building, Ruby invites you to stop by and take a peek at creativity in progress. Countless people have already stopped in for a look. The building has already housed special guests—an area Writers Group—that held a meeting within the four slanted walls. Also a television news camera crew recently spent some time within the pylon shaped building—Ruby was interviewed within her writing abode. That interview can be found by following this link: http://rubymoon.ning.com/video/my-tv-interview

Thus far Ruby had written four books within her writer’s getaway and is currently writing “More Than Angels: Once Upon a Dream” and the 10th ‘Guardian’ book inside the unique building. While hiding out within the pylon shaped building, Ruby worked on much of the soon to be released Star Trek reference/tribute book—Celebrating Trek’s 40th Anniversary.

So visit the two links above and enjoy.

Ruby Moon-Houldson

What do you think readers? Is this a cool site to write, or not????

Thanks so much, Ruby, for sharing this and responding to my request during your interview (for those who have not yet read Ruby's interview, just scroll down!!!

Glenda

Talking With Author, Trekkie and Friend Ruby Moon-Houldson!

Ruby, thanks so much for being my guest spotlight author! I hope you don't mind that, at least today, I've used my favorite photo of you when you were a child! It reminds me of our working together through the More Than Angels Series. I'll be changing it as time goes by!

Right off, I'd like to ask some questions that I know will be of interest to your readers. Ruby, when did you start writing?

Thanks, Glenda, for your welcome and for spotlighting me. I feel like I've been writing all my life, but, it was in high school – grade 9. It wasn’t until my junior year that I wrote my first tiny short story that caught my teacher’s attention. She took me under her wing so to speak and guided me in writing my first Star Trek book.

When did you know that you wanted to be a writer?
About 12 years ago

You know, that's really not very long, considering the number of books you've already written. And, if I remember correctly, it was just last year that you were awarded your doctorate! I admire you so much! Tell me, Where do your ideas and subjects come from?

Thanks again, Glenda. My ideas come from what’s forming in my head—I imagine how people or imaginary beings could act or be different. I see real life situations and then incorporate them into a book (Ex: GPS systems in cars, ID chip, etc.). For instance, I have written a nursing guide book and a parent’s guide book related to Internet Chat. Ideas come from dreams. I listen to the news. I visit places of interest.

Did writing come natural to you or is it something that you had/have to work on?

It comes natural for I have a great imagination and a head full of ideas.

Does your writing come from your life or from other people?
Some of it comes from my life experiences (I have written health related books, a parenting book), and some comes from dreams or just random thoughts.

Did you go to school for writing?
No. But I have taken English Comp classes and Writing classes while pursuing my Masters and PhD degree. I now teach an “Intro to Fiction Writing” workshop.

Have you always had the desire to write?
No. My first love has been teaching (I am a college professor. I teach psychology, sociology, and nursing. I’ve earned my PhD in Psychology).

What made you want to be a writer?

I had so many stories in my head that I had to find a way to get them out. I set the stories to paper, people read them, liked them, and then one thing led to another with the stories becoming books. I wished to share my tales with others. Also, I write for Roddenberry and for PlanetXpo (an entertainment company in CA). They always give me great writing challenges.

Did you ever think that your writing would get you to where you are today?
No. I travel across the United States for book signings and for guest appearances. I’ve been to Hollywood, CA several times and have met so many famous and wonderful people. Meeting my hero (from childhood and including to the present time) has been one of the greatest, most magical things to ever happen to me. My hero is Leonard Nimoy.

Ahhh, yes, Mr. Nimoy! It was he that brought you and me together when I first raised the question about your character in a book. And we both announced we were Star Trek fans, of course, you much more than I, in reality! So, Ruby, who were the people or person that inspired you to write?
My English teacher in high school; a good friend of mine, Leonard Nimoy (Spock on Star Trek); and DeForest Kelley (Dr. McCoy on Star Trek).

How many different drafts of a manuscript do you go through before you publish?
10+ It seems to never be truly as perfect as I want it to be, but there needs to be a stopping point to self editing. Give it up when you thinks it’s the best you can make it and send it on.

Ruby, I'm thrilled to have you say that, especially as more and more writers decide to self-publish. It is so important that writers spend the time to first write their book...and then spend time editing and proofreading! From a reader's standpoint, nothing provokes me more than being stopped in the middle of a sentence to figure out what is being said because there are either editing or proofreading issues that disrupt the flow!

I already know the answer to this question, but am going to ask it for other readers. What has been your favorite story/subject that you have written about and why?

Of course, you know! My favorite is known as the “More Than Angels” series. It has a lot of my own life incorporated into it as well as my hero’s. I can identify with the main female character, Thia. This book has received rave reviews, high recognition, and awards.

And the honors are well deserved!

A second favorite book series I’ve written is the ‘GUARDIAN’ series (a vampire/romance series). It has been well accepted all across the United States (over 5 million readers) and the first book has even been translated into an India language--Tamil. The film company, SONY, provided picture stills for the 6th book, etc. S. King, a New York Book Reviewer reviewed the series and gave a favorable report. The ‘Guardian’ series has been a great selling series that has caused me to receive over 800 e-mails a day with people commenting about the story and the characters. I like to write this series because I can do just about anything I want to with the characters, and I have become attached to the characters seeing that I have written so many books about them. I have watched the characters grow and develop. The Guardian series now has its own music soundtrack CD called “Night Sins.”

And, readers, I have just been asked to review this series! How cool is that! Look for my reviews in the near future! Ruby, I know you have a family and busy work life--What kind of environment do you prefer when you’re writing?
My bedroom is useful with inspirational music playing. I also like to ride around in the car (with music on). I get a lot of ideas that way, too. I now have my own building created especially for me. It’s very quiet.

Wow, a special building--you'll have to tell us more about that sometime soon! But, now, for our readers, What tips do you have for aspiring writers?
Take plenty of English grammar and comp classes. Have someone look over your work and edit it. Start in as soon as possible at finding an agent because it takes a lot of time. I have an agent in New York.

Ruby, what is your favorite part and least favorite part about being a writer?
My favorite part is the travel, getting to meet interesting people (and famous people), and also seeing the finished work in my hands. The least favorite part is delving through all the research that is involved.

Where do you see yourself and your writing in 10 years?
I’ll probably be on book number 50 (I’m on book 35 now), and still be traveling across the US conducting book signings.

And I'll still love reading your books, I am sure! Who knows what futuristic sci-fi you'll get into next! But, tell me, do you ever get stuck in writing, that is, writer's block?

No, fortunately, I have never had writer’s block yet. I may "worry" over a certain part of a story, but that is more editing issues.

You mentioned research earlier as being your least favorite part of writing, and yet I know that it is a very important part. How do you become knowledgeable about the topic you want to write about?

I look for information online. I conduct interviews. I tag along with people and watch them at work. I go to libraries and look up information. I travel to places I am going to write about and I look at the area with my own eyes (I’ve been to England – Stonehenge, California, Nevada, Canada, etc.)

Has your storyline/subject ever changed direction after you have begun writing it?

Yes, many times. I first create an outline of the story. I then begin to write it. As I write, I may add things or even decide to take parts away and not include certain scenes into the story at all. Sometimes the characters take over and I allow them the opportunity to do so—up to a point.


Have you ever wanted to quit? What did you do when that thought struck you?
Yes. I then panicked because I still have stories in my head that need to be told, and I have stories outlined on paper that need to be made into the final book form. I really need to run out of stories so that I can finally rest – but I don’t know when that will be.
Well, I hope you don't mind my saying that I hope it will be a long time from now...as long as you stop to "smell the roses" in life as well...So, What are you working on now?

It seems like we say "stop and smell the roses" to each other a lot, friend!

I am working on the 10th book of the ‘GUARDIAN’ series. I am also working on ‘More Than Angels: Once Upon a Dream’ (3rd in the series). I have been working on a book titled ‘Home Sweet Homeless’ (which much of my research was conducted by watching homeless people and by my traveling to Biloxi, Mississippi and New Orleans for two weeks after Hurricane Katrina hit). I am working on another Star Trek reference book.

What projects do you have for the future?
Possibly more “GUARDIAN” series books (only a thought at the moment), a child’s book, and a diary book.

What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment to date?

My “More Than Angels” book series—they have been nominated for Oprah’s Book Club and have won the National Indie Excellence Award for ‘Best Fiction’. They have also received several great reviews. I’m writing the 3rd book in the series now. Also, my “Guardian” series now having its own music soundtrack.

Do you belong to any interest groups?
I’m a member of the Trek Writer’s Guild, a member of the Indiana Literacy Coalition, the Greene County Speaker’s Bureau, and the Greene County Writers Group. I’m President of “The Moo

Promotional photo of the cast of Star Trek during the third season (1968–1969). From left to right: James Doohan, Walter Koenig, DeForest Kelley, Majel Barrett, William Shatner, Nichelle Nichols, Leonard Nimoy, and George Takei. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

n-Houldson Foundation” which provides assistance to up-and-coming writers and to nursing students. I also serve on the Carnegie Heritage and Arts Center Board as Secretary—I’m also one of the founders of this organization.

Ruby, how about sharing more specifics about where and how fans can find you!

FYI: Also, writers/authors usually have a website where readers may go to view what books an author has written and to see what is coming out. Mine is www.publishedfictionauthor.com or www.rubymoonhouldson.com . I also have stuff on my MY SPACE, along with videos. I’m working with someone to set up my own page at www.rubymoon.ning.com.

Books I’ve written (or are in the works):

The ‘Guardian’ series

Guardian of an Immortal Soul
Guardians of the Immortal Realms
Guardians of Immortal Humanity
Guardians of Immortal Life
Guardians of Immortal Destiny
The Guardian (reviewed by Stephen King – New York Reviewer)
Guardians of Immortal Unity
Guardians of Immortal Truth
Guardians of Immortal Faith (coming soon)
Guardians of Immortal Night (coming soon)

Dragon’s Fire, Insanity’s Reign
The Man Within
The Mark of Cain
Romancing the Professor
Dark Shadows

More Than Angels: Once Upon A Broken Heart (reviewed by J. Deveraux and reader nominated for Oprah’s Book Club)
More Than Angels: Once Upon A Lifetime (National award winner for Best Fiction)
More Than Angels: Once Upon a Dream (coming soon)

Bought With a Price
Home Sweet Homeless (currently writing)
Your Child’s Secret Language
Smart Tool for Nursing School
For Only a Year (Star Trek)
Ni Var (Star Trek)
A Tribute to Spock
A Tribute to James Doohan ‘Scotty’
A Tribute to Walter Koenig
A Tribute to Nichelle Nichols
A Tribute to George Takei
Celebrating Trek’s 40th Anniversary
Stargate Atlantis – A Reference
Diary of a Moon Child (in the works)
Coin – The Imaginary Friend (currently in the works)
Man Made (working on this)

Ruby Moon-Houldson
rubymoon@node1internet.com
rubydiane2000@yahoo.com

Ruby, thanks so much for sharing with us. May you future be full of ideas and adventure!