Thanks to Harmony from Writer in the Making for tagging me for this meme. Here are the instructions:
Technorati Train Meme Participants
***Start Copying Here:***
Here are the rules:
1) Write a short introduction paragraph about what how you found the list and include a link to the blog that referred you to the list.
2) COPY the Rules and ENTIRE List below and post it to your blog. To avoid duplicate content and increase the amount of keywords your site can accessible for, go ahead and change the titles of the blog. Just don’t change the links of the blog.
3) Take “My New Faves” and move them into the “The Original Faves” list.
4) Add 3 Blogs that you’ve just added to your Technorati Favorites to the “My New Faves” section. Remember to also add the “Fave Me” link next to your new blogs (i.e. http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://www.yourfavesdomain.com)
5) Add Everyone on this list to your Technorati Favorites List by clicking on “Fave the Site.” Those who want good kharma will fave you back. If not, you will for sure get the benefits of faves from the bloggers who continue this list after you.
My New Faves
Sylvia's Insight - Fave the Site
eWritings - Online Public Relations - Fave the Site
A Writer's Words, An Editor's Eye - Fave the Site
The Original List
April Aragam _ Fave the Site
JM Writing and Editing Services - Fave the Site
Getting it Right for You - Fave the Site
Life in the Fast Lane - Fave the site
Mike’s Money Making Rants & Raves - Fave the Site
Casual Keystrokes - Fave the Site
Freelance Writing Journey - Fave the Site
Writer in the Making - Fave the Site
Grow Your Writing Business - Fave the Site
Quartz Mountain - Fave the Site
Prime Advertising Blog - Fave the Site
Dawud Miracle - Fave the Site
Gary Lee - Fave the Site *
Dosh Dosh - Fave the Site
Nate Whitehill - Fave the Site
Jeff Kee - Fave the Site
Scribble on the Wall - Fave the Site
Jimi Morrisons Head - Fave the Site
Jon Lee - Fave the Site
Samanathon - Fave the Site
Eat Drink & Be Merry - Fave the Site
The Man of Silver - Fave the Site
Hannes Johnson - Fave the Site
My Dandelion Patch - Fave the Site
Nathan Drach - Fave the Site
SiteLogic - Fave the Site
Julies Journal - Fave the Site
Tea & Slippers - Fave the Site
The Thinking Blog - Fave the Site
Pencil Thin - Fave the Site
Essential Keystrokes - Fave the Site
Mom Gadget - Fave the Site
Engaging the Disquiet - Fave the Site
Monk at Work - Fave the Site
Converstations - Fave the Site
The Kiss Business Too - Fave the Site
HomeMom3 - Fave the Site
**End Copying Here**
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Monday, May 14, 2007
Read to Your Sons and Daughters
The more that you read,
the more things you will know.
The more that you learn,
the more places you'll go.
~Dr. Seuss
I grew up in the country. We lived several miles out of town and my family was very introverted. They did not go to church and they socialized very little with others. You could pretty much count on getting groceries on Saturday mornings and that was the "big" weekly outing. Strange, I know, but something great came out of that isolation for me: the love of reading.
My mother never read to me, but always encouraged me to go read when I was bored on long hot summer days. As a child, I set up house with the Boxcar Children, played with the Bobsy Twins, and had great adventures on a deserted island with The Swiss Family Robinson. I could go anywhere I wanted and it was unbelievable. Once I learned about the wondrous places I could go, I was reading without prompting.
As an adult, I get to enjoy those same books, and many others, with my children. There is truly not a more important activity that you can share with them. I began reading to my eleven-year-old daughter when she was a baby. She learned so much so fast. By the time she was two she was speaking clearly and in full sentences. People would stop me and comment about her great vocabulary and how much she knew for such a young child. Reading to your children develops language.
Children are filled with the wonder of life. They are naturally inquisitive, and everything they see is fresh and new and amazing. Reading to your children allows a very natural way for you to teach your children about the world around them. Danielle knew about bugs and reptiles, flowers and farm animals, herbivores and carnivores. She knew so much and I was the lucky lady that got to teach her all of that. Wow! There isn't a better feeling.
For Danielle and me, reading was also a very special time we got to share together every single night before bedtime. It was the part of her nighttime ritual that calmed her for bed. It was special, and we both looked forward to it - good thing because I know I would never have been able to wiggle out of it. It really made us closer, which I am sure will benefit us in the tumultuous years of adolescence. As she got older and learned how to read on her own, she read to me, or we would take turns. It still isn't unusual for her to grab one of her favorite fairy tales for me to read to her.
We now have bookshelves packed full of books. When I look at them I see our past. I see mother-daughter bonding, laughing, and learning together. I see a piece of her childhood that I wouldn't trade for anything else in the world, and for all the things I've done wrong as a mother I know in my heart that reading is the one thing I got right for sure. Now I get to share the same thing with my little Chloe. Thank God for reading!
Have a fantastic day!
the more things you will know.
The more that you learn,
the more places you'll go.
~Dr. Seuss
I grew up in the country. We lived several miles out of town and my family was very introverted. They did not go to church and they socialized very little with others. You could pretty much count on getting groceries on Saturday mornings and that was the "big" weekly outing. Strange, I know, but something great came out of that isolation for me: the love of reading.
My mother never read to me, but always encouraged me to go read when I was bored on long hot summer days. As a child, I set up house with the Boxcar Children, played with the Bobsy Twins, and had great adventures on a deserted island with The Swiss Family Robinson. I could go anywhere I wanted and it was unbelievable. Once I learned about the wondrous places I could go, I was reading without prompting.
As an adult, I get to enjoy those same books, and many others, with my children. There is truly not a more important activity that you can share with them. I began reading to my eleven-year-old daughter when she was a baby. She learned so much so fast. By the time she was two she was speaking clearly and in full sentences. People would stop me and comment about her great vocabulary and how much she knew for such a young child. Reading to your children develops language.
Children are filled with the wonder of life. They are naturally inquisitive, and everything they see is fresh and new and amazing. Reading to your children allows a very natural way for you to teach your children about the world around them. Danielle knew about bugs and reptiles, flowers and farm animals, herbivores and carnivores. She knew so much and I was the lucky lady that got to teach her all of that. Wow! There isn't a better feeling.
For Danielle and me, reading was also a very special time we got to share together every single night before bedtime. It was the part of her nighttime ritual that calmed her for bed. It was special, and we both looked forward to it - good thing because I know I would never have been able to wiggle out of it. It really made us closer, which I am sure will benefit us in the tumultuous years of adolescence. As she got older and learned how to read on her own, she read to me, or we would take turns. It still isn't unusual for her to grab one of her favorite fairy tales for me to read to her.
We now have bookshelves packed full of books. When I look at them I see our past. I see mother-daughter bonding, laughing, and learning together. I see a piece of her childhood that I wouldn't trade for anything else in the world, and for all the things I've done wrong as a mother I know in my heart that reading is the one thing I got right for sure. Now I get to share the same thing with my little Chloe. Thank God for reading!
Have a fantastic day!
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Yippee!!!
I just finished my short story for the 76th Annual Writer's Digest competition! I am excited and even relieved just to have accomplished another writing goal. I don't enjoy things hanging over my head. I wish I could share it with all of you!
Now to give it the final edit, print it out, and send it off. But that will be tomorrow!
Have a wonderful night!
Now to give it the final edit, print it out, and send it off. But that will be tomorrow!
Have a wonderful night!
Friday, May 04, 2007
Three Tips to Avoid Repetition in Your Writing
It's true that we all have different styles of writing and editing. I have never been able to sit down and write something start to finish. Whether that's good or not, I do not know, but it's what works for me. I write the first paragraph, stop, reread, edit, then go back to writing.
Last week I spent many hours working on my short story for the 76th Annual Writer's Digest Writing Competition, and as I edited, I was reminded of the importance of avoiding repetition in writing. Of course, there are always cases where it is used in order to help your writing flow and make sense, or to emphasize a point. In those cases it's important to come up with new and unique ways of saying what you want to say. That's part of the creative element of writing.
Avoiding repetition is important primarily for the fluidity of your piece. When you continually repeat, your writing becomes choppy and hard to follow. But most importantly, nobody is going to want to read what you've written. Who really has time to read the same thing over and over? And who really wants to? If you can get creative with your words and phrases, your article will be more interesting for your reader.
Three tips to avoid repetition:
(1) Did you ever read a story or article where the main character's name is used way too much? It breaks down the readability of your piece. When you are using a person's name, try replacing it with pronouns whenever possible. Obviously, you must introduce the character you are talking about, and there are still times it is necessary to use the actual name, but when appropriate use him, her, or he, she etc.
(2) Reread your article out loud, or listen to someone read it to you. Hearing as opposed to reading it inside your head, is helpful for catching those words and phrases that are repetitive. I can't tell you how many times I have read something I wrote to a friend and caught words that repeat.
(3) Your thesaurus is your friend. Don't be afraid or ashamed to pull it out of your bookshelf, or from your Microsoft Word program. Sometimes you may even find a more appropriate word than you were originally going to use. Plus this blessed little book also has the added bonus of widening your vocabulary.
Repetition is a part of writing. We all do it. It's something that we don't think about a whole lot because we are paying attention to proper grammar and sentence structure. But it's there in your rough drafts, and that is where it needs to end! So be on the lookout.
Until next time take care!
Last week I spent many hours working on my short story for the 76th Annual Writer's Digest Writing Competition, and as I edited, I was reminded of the importance of avoiding repetition in writing. Of course, there are always cases where it is used in order to help your writing flow and make sense, or to emphasize a point. In those cases it's important to come up with new and unique ways of saying what you want to say. That's part of the creative element of writing.
Avoiding repetition is important primarily for the fluidity of your piece. When you continually repeat, your writing becomes choppy and hard to follow. But most importantly, nobody is going to want to read what you've written. Who really has time to read the same thing over and over? And who really wants to? If you can get creative with your words and phrases, your article will be more interesting for your reader.
Three tips to avoid repetition:
(1) Did you ever read a story or article where the main character's name is used way too much? It breaks down the readability of your piece. When you are using a person's name, try replacing it with pronouns whenever possible. Obviously, you must introduce the character you are talking about, and there are still times it is necessary to use the actual name, but when appropriate use him, her, or he, she etc.
(2) Reread your article out loud, or listen to someone read it to you. Hearing as opposed to reading it inside your head, is helpful for catching those words and phrases that are repetitive. I can't tell you how many times I have read something I wrote to a friend and caught words that repeat.
(3) Your thesaurus is your friend. Don't be afraid or ashamed to pull it out of your bookshelf, or from your Microsoft Word program. Sometimes you may even find a more appropriate word than you were originally going to use. Plus this blessed little book also has the added bonus of widening your vocabulary.
Repetition is a part of writing. We all do it. It's something that we don't think about a whole lot because we are paying attention to proper grammar and sentence structure. But it's there in your rough drafts, and that is where it needs to end! So be on the lookout.
Until next time take care!
Thursday, May 03, 2007
A Mother and a Writer
I have had a busy week as a parent and a writing mama. We had the bomb scare, and yes it really was a bomb. Fortunately, it wasn't actually a threat - just a foolish act on the part of a very foolish person. Some guy (low in the intellect department, sorry but it's true) found a pipe bomb, put it in his truck, and brought it with him to ask school officials what it was. I am thankful that it wasn't a crime of hate, but rather stupidity. Somehow that makes me feel better.
Last night, Chloe fell down the basement steps. I spent the most helpless moments of my parenting career watching her tumble down all but two of them. Yuck. Fortunately, all that came of it was a big scare, three hours in the emergency room, and three little stitches on her forehead. It could have been much worse.
These experiences have taught me that there are some things we cannot protect our children from. A hard pill to swallow if you ask me. But as I have said over and over, it's a reminder to cherish today and the time we have with our loved ones. Believe me, if I wasn't before I am now.
As writers what can we get out of circumstances such as these?
To begin with, they are great opportunities to write. They are undeveloped story ideas that have the potential to grow into published works. I already have my query letter in mind from this week's experiences. Not only are they opportunities to come up with stories, but also to grow in our thinking to make our stories so much more flavorful. When Nick was a boy, he knew an old man who lived in his neighborhood. Every time he would see this guy, he would say in his feeble old man voice, "Reach into my bag and grab yourself a gum ball." These little life experiences are the gum balls that make our stories sweeter.
I have also been busy as a writing mama. Other than last night I have been working hard on a short story to enter in the 76th Annual Writer's Digest Writing competition. I am very excited because it is a new step in my writing career. I have never entered any contests other than the essay contest I entered in college. The deadline for this one is May 15 and I am determined to finish it and submit it. I will keep you updated on how that is going.
My copy of Writer Mama How to Raise a Writing Career Alongside Your Kids by Christina Katz came in the mail a couple days ago. I have read snippets of it in between all the other stuff in my life this week. So far, it's great and I think I am going to learn a lot from it. I plan to write a review when I am done.
I apologize for blogging about so many issues other than writing lately. These events have been monumental and a huge focus in my life. Hopefully, now things will settle down! Regardless, I will be back next week to blog about writing and to give you something useful to apply to your own writing careers.
Until next time enjoy all life has to offer you!
Last night, Chloe fell down the basement steps. I spent the most helpless moments of my parenting career watching her tumble down all but two of them. Yuck. Fortunately, all that came of it was a big scare, three hours in the emergency room, and three little stitches on her forehead. It could have been much worse.
These experiences have taught me that there are some things we cannot protect our children from. A hard pill to swallow if you ask me. But as I have said over and over, it's a reminder to cherish today and the time we have with our loved ones. Believe me, if I wasn't before I am now.
As writers what can we get out of circumstances such as these?
To begin with, they are great opportunities to write. They are undeveloped story ideas that have the potential to grow into published works. I already have my query letter in mind from this week's experiences. Not only are they opportunities to come up with stories, but also to grow in our thinking to make our stories so much more flavorful. When Nick was a boy, he knew an old man who lived in his neighborhood. Every time he would see this guy, he would say in his feeble old man voice, "Reach into my bag and grab yourself a gum ball." These little life experiences are the gum balls that make our stories sweeter.
I have also been busy as a writing mama. Other than last night I have been working hard on a short story to enter in the 76th Annual Writer's Digest Writing competition. I am very excited because it is a new step in my writing career. I have never entered any contests other than the essay contest I entered in college. The deadline for this one is May 15 and I am determined to finish it and submit it. I will keep you updated on how that is going.
My copy of Writer Mama How to Raise a Writing Career Alongside Your Kids by Christina Katz came in the mail a couple days ago. I have read snippets of it in between all the other stuff in my life this week. So far, it's great and I think I am going to learn a lot from it. I plan to write a review when I am done.
I apologize for blogging about so many issues other than writing lately. These events have been monumental and a huge focus in my life. Hopefully, now things will settle down! Regardless, I will be back next week to blog about writing and to give you something useful to apply to your own writing careers.
Until next time enjoy all life has to offer you!
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Bomb Threat
My husband and I were bringing Chloe home from dance when we got the call. Danielle, whose little voice cracked with fear, called our cell phone and gave us the news, "Where are you? Please hurry home. I'm at Grandpa's." Today my daughter's school was dismissed early. I would love to say it was a planned dismissal for parent conferences, or because snow covered roads had school officials concerned. But it wasn't. "There was a bomb threat at the school," Danielle finished.
I knew she was home safe which was an instant relief to me, but still I was scared. What was going on? What is coming of this world? A world where we can't even send our children to school and feel safe. I couldn't even imagine the terror that Danielle felt as she awaited dismissal.
I was right about that. She was petrified - although the teachers did not tell the children what was going on. They were simply shuffled from place to place, with ominous announcements coming from the loud speakers. She recounted the whole story to me, but only wept at one point. She got up extra early this morning to go for a run with her father before school. She and her dad just started doing this recently and it's special to her because he works second shift and she rarely gets one-on-one time with him. Through her tears and squeaky voice she said, "All I could think was 'Would this morning be the last time I ever run with my dad?'" Such finality. So wrong for a girl almost 12 to be thinking. Again, what is this world coming to?
We live right across the street from the school. Through trees and a couple houses lined up in front of ours, we could see the police cars, ambulances and fire trucks. We could hear sirens and barking bomb sniffing dogs alerting others of impending danger. As I walked my children back to our house from my in laws (they live right next door) we heard what sounded like an explosion. Maybe it wasn't just a threat - some kids thoughtless idea to get out of school for the day. Maybe it was real. A real bomb in my daughter's school. This is real. And it's really scary.
I thought of the victims of Virginia Tech. I thought of the fear they must have experienced; the terror. I imagined what the parents and loved ones of the students who go there were thinking, feeling. Worry. Terror. Impatient to get a phone call. Not that I hadn't thought of that before, but today intensified everything for me.
I also thought of all the news stories, "____________ school was dismissed early today because of a bomb threat." How many times had I heard that before, and somewhere in the back of my mind thought, We are safe here. Nothing will ever happen at our school.
I still do not know if the noise I heard was a bomb being detonated. It doesn't matter. The children in this town are safe right now and I've been enlightened. I'm so glad we have today. I'm thankful for my two beautiful girls and a husband who is my rock and strong place. Today, as I try to push back the fear of the unknown, I am counting my blessings. For today, my daughter is safe.
I knew she was home safe which was an instant relief to me, but still I was scared. What was going on? What is coming of this world? A world where we can't even send our children to school and feel safe. I couldn't even imagine the terror that Danielle felt as she awaited dismissal.
I was right about that. She was petrified - although the teachers did not tell the children what was going on. They were simply shuffled from place to place, with ominous announcements coming from the loud speakers. She recounted the whole story to me, but only wept at one point. She got up extra early this morning to go for a run with her father before school. She and her dad just started doing this recently and it's special to her because he works second shift and she rarely gets one-on-one time with him. Through her tears and squeaky voice she said, "All I could think was 'Would this morning be the last time I ever run with my dad?'" Such finality. So wrong for a girl almost 12 to be thinking. Again, what is this world coming to?
We live right across the street from the school. Through trees and a couple houses lined up in front of ours, we could see the police cars, ambulances and fire trucks. We could hear sirens and barking bomb sniffing dogs alerting others of impending danger. As I walked my children back to our house from my in laws (they live right next door) we heard what sounded like an explosion. Maybe it wasn't just a threat - some kids thoughtless idea to get out of school for the day. Maybe it was real. A real bomb in my daughter's school. This is real. And it's really scary.
I thought of the victims of Virginia Tech. I thought of the fear they must have experienced; the terror. I imagined what the parents and loved ones of the students who go there were thinking, feeling. Worry. Terror. Impatient to get a phone call. Not that I hadn't thought of that before, but today intensified everything for me.
I also thought of all the news stories, "____________ school was dismissed early today because of a bomb threat." How many times had I heard that before, and somewhere in the back of my mind thought, We are safe here. Nothing will ever happen at our school.
I still do not know if the noise I heard was a bomb being detonated. It doesn't matter. The children in this town are safe right now and I've been enlightened. I'm so glad we have today. I'm thankful for my two beautiful girls and a husband who is my rock and strong place. Today, as I try to push back the fear of the unknown, I am counting my blessings. For today, my daughter is safe.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Spring Slideshow
Just imagine our lives without lovely green grass...
What would it be like if God hadn't given us delicate spring flowers?
...or the ones we planted...
What would the hardworking bumble bee do?
Where would he go?
Just imagine...
Thursday, April 26, 2007
The Thinking Blogger Award - I'm honored
Lillie Ammann at A Writer's Words, An Editor's Eye has awarded Getting it Write for You with the Thinking Blogger Award. Back in February of this year, Iker Yoldas at The Thinking Blog created this award - or actually meme - as a result of her pondering the meaning of the "meme" in the world of blogging, and what they mean to her. In her thinking, she determined that as far as blogs go, what appeals to her most are those that really make her think. She reminds us that the purpose of linking to blogs is to lead others to quality content. So she created the Thinking Blogger Award and the rules that go with it. She lists five blogs that make her think, and those that receive it pass it along to five that make them think.
Lillie Ammann had this to say about my blog, "Her posts are encouraging, inspiring, and thought-provoking - about writing and about life." I am so honored at your encouraging words and nomination for such a fun award! Thank you so much, Lillie!
I'm tagging:
Betsy Henning at Betsy Henning's Blog because her posts make me think about both the serious issues in life that I might not otherwise think about, as well as the importance of recognizing the simple pleasures in life.
Sylvia at Sylvia's Insight because her positive outlook on life, and huge amounts of "gumption" are nothing less than contagious. Watching her rise to success and all of her life's victories has been a true pleasure.
Harmony Cornwell at Writer in the Making. Her posts are fun, packed full of useful information, and her monthly goals and achievements are an inspiration to me.
Kathy Kherli at Screw You! whose posts always make me long for success! She writes about the issues that impact freelance writers - things you might not give much thought to without some amount of experience.
Carson Brackney at Content Done Better on a whim that maybe he will take a few minutes to answer this one. I tag him because he truly stretches my mind and makes me want to be a deeper thinker and better writer. The title of his blog says it all.
I admire all of you, but the truth is everyone who is on my list of "blogs that I love" is there because, well...I love them. I enjoy reading them every day and as far as I am concerned, you all deserve this award!
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Am I an Imposter?
“Believe in the quality of your work and the value of your message and at the same time, recognize surprises always happen in publishing.”
If you scroll down on the left of the screen, you will see that this is today’s writing quote. Well, I don’t know about the publishing part, but it’s still a timely quote because yesterday over at The Writer Mama, she discussed a topic similar to believing in yourself as a writer. It’s hard to fathom, but even the most accomplished writers do not believe in their abilities.
“I have written eleven books, but each time I think, ‘Uh oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody, and they’re going to find me out.’”
These are the words of Maya Angelou. Can you believe it? Maya Angelou whose powerful and influential words have impacted people all over the world. She is beyond great—a truly amazing woman and writer! Who would ever think she doubts her skills?
Oh believe me, I can relate. I often wonder how much longer I can keep pulling this writing thing off. But I am not Maya Angelou. I have not achieved her level of success.
Thanks to Christina Katz, I now know there is a name for this phenomenon. It is called the Impostor Syndrome and is basically the feeling that you are not as good at something as others perceive you to be—despite major successes and accomplishments. Instead you attribute your achievements to an ability to “fake it,” luck, or you simply minimize your accomplishments as not that great.
Many famous writers, as well as other occupation holders, question their skills and abilities. In light of that fact, Christina Katz suggests we list words that describe ourselves. In celebration of who I am—and the fact that I might have just a tinge of this Impostor Syndrome—I will list a few words that I think describe who I am.
Genuine
Honest
Caring
Content
Spiritual
Compassionate
Gifted (I truly believe we are all)
Sincere
Positive
Happy
Practical
Loving
We all have the same emotions, and similar insecurities. It’s a part of what connects us, and of what makes us who we are as human beings. Allow yourself to rejoice in who you are--as human beings and writers. I’d love to see some of you come up with your own list. Perhaps it may give you a fresh sense of confidence, allowing you to tackle your writing with abandon and renewed gusto.
Until next time, take care!
If you scroll down on the left of the screen, you will see that this is today’s writing quote. Well, I don’t know about the publishing part, but it’s still a timely quote because yesterday over at The Writer Mama, she discussed a topic similar to believing in yourself as a writer. It’s hard to fathom, but even the most accomplished writers do not believe in their abilities.
“I have written eleven books, but each time I think, ‘Uh oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody, and they’re going to find me out.’”
These are the words of Maya Angelou. Can you believe it? Maya Angelou whose powerful and influential words have impacted people all over the world. She is beyond great—a truly amazing woman and writer! Who would ever think she doubts her skills?
Oh believe me, I can relate. I often wonder how much longer I can keep pulling this writing thing off. But I am not Maya Angelou. I have not achieved her level of success.
Thanks to Christina Katz, I now know there is a name for this phenomenon. It is called the Impostor Syndrome and is basically the feeling that you are not as good at something as others perceive you to be—despite major successes and accomplishments. Instead you attribute your achievements to an ability to “fake it,” luck, or you simply minimize your accomplishments as not that great.
Many famous writers, as well as other occupation holders, question their skills and abilities. In light of that fact, Christina Katz suggests we list words that describe ourselves. In celebration of who I am—and the fact that I might have just a tinge of this Impostor Syndrome—I will list a few words that I think describe who I am.
Genuine
Honest
Caring
Content
Spiritual
Compassionate
Gifted (I truly believe we are all)
Sincere
Positive
Happy
Practical
Loving
We all have the same emotions, and similar insecurities. It’s a part of what connects us, and of what makes us who we are as human beings. Allow yourself to rejoice in who you are--as human beings and writers. I’d love to see some of you come up with your own list. Perhaps it may give you a fresh sense of confidence, allowing you to tackle your writing with abandon and renewed gusto.
Until next time, take care!
Friday, April 20, 2007
Four Reasons not to Procrastinate in Writing
Procrastinate vb to put off usually habitually doing something that should be done syn. Dawdle, delay
- as defined by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary
For some reason, this week I have been an expert at this most unfortunate condition called procrastination. At this very moment, as I sit here and write a post for my blog, I should be completing a writing assignment that is due today. I am dawdling and delaying until the very last moment. And it’s no good!
Fortunately, most of the time I am not one to procrastinate and that’s a good thing because when you wait until the last minute it usually shows in your writing. Here are four reasons not to do as I am doing right now.
(1) Rushed writing is not good writing. When you are in a hurry it makes it much more difficult to catch the little errors (spelling and punctuation) that can ruin your credibility as a writer.
(2) As a writer it is always good to let your writing “rest” for at least a day or two to enable you to read your paper with fresh eyes. Your mind is not set on reading it just the way you wrote it, allowing critical changes to be made that could make your article much better. When you put it off until the last moment, it’s much harder to do this.
(3) You risk disappointing your client. If you are waiting until the very last moment and your article is not the quality expected of you, your client is not going to be 100% satisfied with your work. You could even lose him as a client.
(4) You risk disappointing yourself. You feel anxious and apprehensive with deadlines looming over your head and you feel badly knowing that had you not put it off you could have done a much better job.
Wow! Four convincing reasons for me to end this post right now and go finish my article. What am I still doing here?
Take care and may you have a wonderful weekend!
- as defined by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary
For some reason, this week I have been an expert at this most unfortunate condition called procrastination. At this very moment, as I sit here and write a post for my blog, I should be completing a writing assignment that is due today. I am dawdling and delaying until the very last moment. And it’s no good!
Fortunately, most of the time I am not one to procrastinate and that’s a good thing because when you wait until the last minute it usually shows in your writing. Here are four reasons not to do as I am doing right now.
(1) Rushed writing is not good writing. When you are in a hurry it makes it much more difficult to catch the little errors (spelling and punctuation) that can ruin your credibility as a writer.
(2) As a writer it is always good to let your writing “rest” for at least a day or two to enable you to read your paper with fresh eyes. Your mind is not set on reading it just the way you wrote it, allowing critical changes to be made that could make your article much better. When you put it off until the last moment, it’s much harder to do this.
(3) You risk disappointing your client. If you are waiting until the very last moment and your article is not the quality expected of you, your client is not going to be 100% satisfied with your work. You could even lose him as a client.
(4) You risk disappointing yourself. You feel anxious and apprehensive with deadlines looming over your head and you feel badly knowing that had you not put it off you could have done a much better job.
Wow! Four convincing reasons for me to end this post right now and go finish my article. What am I still doing here?
Take care and may you have a wonderful weekend!
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
The Victims of Virginia Tech - Silence for You
Yesterday tragedy struck our country. A young man by the name of Cho Seung-Hui took the lives of 33 people, including himself. This is by far the worst shooting of this nature in American history. Nothing can change the outcome. It is done, and the grieving process must now begin, for family, friends, and for a country left in shock and disbelief. What could have been done to prevent this?
Sad things have been happening since the beginning of time. On March 13, 1964 a young woman from NYC, named Kitty Genovese, was coming home from work in the wee hours of the morning. She was followed home and brutally attacked. Her screams were heard by many, but nobody called the police. Nobody helped. Perhaps they were afraid to get involved, thinking it was a domestic dispute. Perhaps some did not care. She died. But her life could have been saved if someone had gotten involved.
I have spent my day wondering what caused Cho Seung-Hui to do such a thing, and what could have been done differently to prevent it. I can't answer that question, but perhaps simple acts of kindness can make a huge difference. Our involvement doesn't always have to be so dramatic. Just smiling or saying hello to someone who appears to be lonely or upset might change someone's day--their entire life. Or it doesn't have to be a person visibly upset. You don't know what turmoil is going on within another being's mind.
Yes, we can make a difference. I believe, compassion is at the heart of change. That ability to put yourself in another’s shoes is all it takes to care. I’m not saying that what these men did was ok. It’s not. It was wrong. People died. But can't we learn from it? Can't we be compassionate people? We can teach our children to be compassionate and caring individuals. We must do this by example. Stop and show you care. Perhaps if we all do, another situation like this can be avoided.
"As you draw closer to your families in the coming days, I ask you to reach out to those who ache for sons and daughters who are never coming home," said President Bush today at a memorial service for the victims. I think of them and my heart aches. I can only think I understand their pain. In light of this, I am doing as many fellow bloggers will be doing. On Monday, April 30, 2007 I will not be blogging or responding to anyone else's blogs for that entire day.
The silence will not change what's happened, but is meant only to honor those who are gone and is an act of respect for the families who will bear permanent scars from the damage that's been done. My thoughts and prayers will be with them.
My inspiration for this blog comes from Mihaela Lica of eWritings - Online Public Relations. Her words have touched many today-including me.
For more information about the day of blogging silence visit Steli Efti's post "One Day Blog Silence in Honor of the Victims of Virginia Tech."
Sad things have been happening since the beginning of time. On March 13, 1964 a young woman from NYC, named Kitty Genovese, was coming home from work in the wee hours of the morning. She was followed home and brutally attacked. Her screams were heard by many, but nobody called the police. Nobody helped. Perhaps they were afraid to get involved, thinking it was a domestic dispute. Perhaps some did not care. She died. But her life could have been saved if someone had gotten involved.
I have spent my day wondering what caused Cho Seung-Hui to do such a thing, and what could have been done differently to prevent it. I can't answer that question, but perhaps simple acts of kindness can make a huge difference. Our involvement doesn't always have to be so dramatic. Just smiling or saying hello to someone who appears to be lonely or upset might change someone's day--their entire life. Or it doesn't have to be a person visibly upset. You don't know what turmoil is going on within another being's mind.
Yes, we can make a difference. I believe, compassion is at the heart of change. That ability to put yourself in another’s shoes is all it takes to care. I’m not saying that what these men did was ok. It’s not. It was wrong. People died. But can't we learn from it? Can't we be compassionate people? We can teach our children to be compassionate and caring individuals. We must do this by example. Stop and show you care. Perhaps if we all do, another situation like this can be avoided.
"As you draw closer to your families in the coming days, I ask you to reach out to those who ache for sons and daughters who are never coming home," said President Bush today at a memorial service for the victims. I think of them and my heart aches. I can only think I understand their pain. In light of this, I am doing as many fellow bloggers will be doing. On Monday, April 30, 2007 I will not be blogging or responding to anyone else's blogs for that entire day.
The silence will not change what's happened, but is meant only to honor those who are gone and is an act of respect for the families who will bear permanent scars from the damage that's been done. My thoughts and prayers will be with them.
My inspiration for this blog comes from Mihaela Lica of eWritings - Online Public Relations. Her words have touched many today-including me.
For more information about the day of blogging silence visit Steli Efti's post "One Day Blog Silence in Honor of the Victims of Virginia Tech."
Monday, April 16, 2007
Simply Amazing!
I sit in my car, waiting for my husband to come out of the store. My eyes are closed-- seatbelt still strapped across my waist. My hand feels the silky smoothness of the strap. I recognize what it is. My youngest daughter's breath slows down, becomes louder, more methodical. She sleeps peacefully. My eldest shuffles the pages of her book. She reads quietly. My mind quickly identifies all it senses and I marvel at the complexity of the human body. I am amazed at how easy the mind and senses come together to identify all that surrounds us.
Wouldn't it be nice if writing were as easy as living and breathing? Not to say it never is, but the words do not always come flowing from the fingertips like the blood that circulates our bodies. Things get in our way and impede the writing process. What are our distractions?
At times, merely living gets in our way. We are busy people. Many have jobs to go to and families to raise. My job is at home maintaining a household and raising children. I love it. There is nothing in my life I enjoy more, but it definitely makes carving out time for writing difficult.
Juggling household chores and the demands of parenting are hard enough in themselves, but adding writing to the mix really steps things up a bit. I admit that I have not yet mastered time management, but there is one thing that consistently works for me. I write when my three-year-old naps. I never do anything else during this time and it allows me at least two good hours in the afternoon to work on my writing projects. It is a productive time for me.
Another big distraction in my life is--you are never going to believe this one--the internet. It is not unusual for me to turn my laptop on with the intent of working on an article, but first I think, "Well, I will just check my email real quick." I check my email, find a neat link to an interesting website, check it out, and that one leads me to another. Then I figure I may as well see if any posts were made to my favorite blogs, and before you know it an hour has gone by. An hour I could have spent writing!
A couple of things have helped me in this area. I only allow myself so much time a day to do all that fun stuff. I take a look at my schedule and determine when I should read those blogs, and then stick to it. Ok, so I get a little ADHD sometimes and I don't always stick to it, but I try. I find that when I do, my writing time becomes more productive.
Another thing I do--especially when I have a project looming--is turn the internet off. I make sure my research is done so I don't need it anymore, and then apply myself. I get into the project and before I know it I am nearly done.
Many things get in our way, but many things can be done to overcome the obstacles. And it's true that some days will be more productive than others, but we must keep at it. Keep those fingers typing. Eventually they've got to work with your mind in the same way that your senses do; working in coalition to write a masterpiece. Right?
Wouldn't it be nice if writing were as easy as living and breathing? Not to say it never is, but the words do not always come flowing from the fingertips like the blood that circulates our bodies. Things get in our way and impede the writing process. What are our distractions?
At times, merely living gets in our way. We are busy people. Many have jobs to go to and families to raise. My job is at home maintaining a household and raising children. I love it. There is nothing in my life I enjoy more, but it definitely makes carving out time for writing difficult.
Juggling household chores and the demands of parenting are hard enough in themselves, but adding writing to the mix really steps things up a bit. I admit that I have not yet mastered time management, but there is one thing that consistently works for me. I write when my three-year-old naps. I never do anything else during this time and it allows me at least two good hours in the afternoon to work on my writing projects. It is a productive time for me.
Another big distraction in my life is--you are never going to believe this one--the internet. It is not unusual for me to turn my laptop on with the intent of working on an article, but first I think, "Well, I will just check my email real quick." I check my email, find a neat link to an interesting website, check it out, and that one leads me to another. Then I figure I may as well see if any posts were made to my favorite blogs, and before you know it an hour has gone by. An hour I could have spent writing!
A couple of things have helped me in this area. I only allow myself so much time a day to do all that fun stuff. I take a look at my schedule and determine when I should read those blogs, and then stick to it. Ok, so I get a little ADHD sometimes and I don't always stick to it, but I try. I find that when I do, my writing time becomes more productive.
Another thing I do--especially when I have a project looming--is turn the internet off. I make sure my research is done so I don't need it anymore, and then apply myself. I get into the project and before I know it I am nearly done.
Many things get in our way, but many things can be done to overcome the obstacles. And it's true that some days will be more productive than others, but we must keep at it. Keep those fingers typing. Eventually they've got to work with your mind in the same way that your senses do; working in coalition to write a masterpiece. Right?
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Accolades of Journaling
I woke up early this morning to see my husband off for first day of trout and was treated to this lovely sunrise. Perhaps it will serve as writing inspiration for you!
Today I want to talk about journaling. I already touched on this with my meme post, and it seems that many of my blogging friends already participate in this great activity, but there are so many positive things to say about it that I felt it warranted a post of its own.
Journaling is by far one of the most useful exercises a writer can take part in for many reasons. To begin with, it serves as a great warm up. An aerobic enthusiast would not begin a kickboxing routine without first loosening up her body. In much the same way, a writer must also warm up her mind before embarking on a writing project. There are always exceptions, like when you get that burst of inspiration and you know exactly what turn your story must take—then you WRITE!
If you are a writing procrastinator, journaling is a free writing experience in which you have the benefit of committing your thoughts to paper without worrying about spelling, punctuation, grammar, or anything else. These very concerns have the potential to take your focus off of the actual act of writing itself—thus possibly snuffing out your very creativity. The ability to write without inhibitions clears your mind for other writing projects and gives you more ideas for more. It may even help you with something you are currently working on.
Of course, you may even find that the personal gains outweigh the practical benefits. As I said the other day, I find it to be therapeutic. I get an opportunity to write down what I have accomplished in my day and that helps to alleviate my stress. I can say, “Wow, I did more than I thought I did!” That’s a great thing to be able to say! I also get to look back on my memories—many of my children that I would not have recalled otherwise.
Don’t let me fool you though. I do have a journaling regret. I mourn the fact that I did not journal when my older daughter was little. I wrote down a couple snippets of things here and there, those I never wanted to forget, but I did not write down the little things. She had the cutest way of saying ketchup, and I can’t remember what it was. Lesson learned. Now I write down everything—even things that seemed trivial at the time are now priceless.
Journaling keeps you involved in writing. It is healthy practice. We all know what they say about that! Practice makes perfect, so go buy yourself a lovely journal and get to it!
Until next time, take care!
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Back in the Saddle Again!
I'm back from Virginia (it was cold but great), recovered from migraine headaches (for now), the flu, and have been tagged with a meme! Life is good!
Harmony Cornwell of Writer in the Making tagged me with a meme that asks, "What is your favorite type of writing?"
I really enjoy all kinds of writing, but from a professional standpoint I enjoy article writing the most. I have always liked the educational element of researching a topic, learning everything you can about something, and then turning it into your own original piece. It's so exciting when words, sentences, transitions, and information all come together smoothly and coherently. It's creativity and it's fun!
From a completely personal standpoint I would say I enjoy journaling the most. There is nothing quite so cathartic as writing down one's thoughts and feelings at the end of the day. It helps you to know who you are and understand how you really feel about things. Not only that but I love being able to look back through my journals and remember my past. Memories are recorded there that I would not have recalled had I not written them down. My own journaling rule is to never write about silly disagreements I have had with my husband. If I need to do that I write it on a separate sheet of paper and then throw it away. I need only to remember the greatest highlights of my life, marriage, and family--not the negative stuff!
I may have expanded a little more on this meme, but it was too hard to completely narrow it down to one kind of writing.
I am tagging:
Sylvia C of Sylvia's Insight
Kathy Kehrli of Screw You!
Robin of Robin's Writing Now
I missed you all and appreciate your loyalty! Sorry it took me so long to get back into the groove of things--I wasn't counting on the flu! Geesh! I will be back in a day or two with another blog for aspiring writers!
Take care and see ya soon!
Harmony Cornwell of Writer in the Making tagged me with a meme that asks, "What is your favorite type of writing?"
I really enjoy all kinds of writing, but from a professional standpoint I enjoy article writing the most. I have always liked the educational element of researching a topic, learning everything you can about something, and then turning it into your own original piece. It's so exciting when words, sentences, transitions, and information all come together smoothly and coherently. It's creativity and it's fun!
From a completely personal standpoint I would say I enjoy journaling the most. There is nothing quite so cathartic as writing down one's thoughts and feelings at the end of the day. It helps you to know who you are and understand how you really feel about things. Not only that but I love being able to look back through my journals and remember my past. Memories are recorded there that I would not have recalled had I not written them down. My own journaling rule is to never write about silly disagreements I have had with my husband. If I need to do that I write it on a separate sheet of paper and then throw it away. I need only to remember the greatest highlights of my life, marriage, and family--not the negative stuff!
I may have expanded a little more on this meme, but it was too hard to completely narrow it down to one kind of writing.
I am tagging:
Sylvia C of Sylvia's Insight
Kathy Kehrli of Screw You!
Robin of Robin's Writing Now
I missed you all and appreciate your loyalty! Sorry it took me so long to get back into the groove of things--I wasn't counting on the flu! Geesh! I will be back in a day or two with another blog for aspiring writers!
Take care and see ya soon!
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Going Away
I just wanted to let you know that my family and I are going to Virginia for the Easter Holiday. Nick has family down there and we thought a little break away would be nice. I planned on blogging last night, but got hit by a migraine headache--that makes two in three days. Hopefully they don't become a problem. I will try and blog while I am away, but you know how that works out!
See you next week if not before!
Have a Happy Easter!
See you next week if not before!
Have a Happy Easter!
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Keep it Simple
"Clutter is the disease of American writing. We are a society strangling in unnecessary words, circular constructions, pompous frills and meaningless jargon."
~ On Writing Well by William Zinsser
Nothing in this world is quite as difficult as trying to read something that is not readable! Perhaps we don’t know there is junk in our writing. Or maybe we have a feeling, but for some reason are attached and cannot let go. We think we need it—our article cannot do without it. Maybe you think, “I can’t get rid of that comment. It’s a reflection of who I am.” The truth is, if it’s loaded with too much, your style and intent is lost on your reader anyway—likely because he quits reading.
If you aren’t sure whether your writing is filled with unnecessary junk, there is hope for you yet! Think of writing as a bit like baking. Baking is very precise. If you add too much or too little of an ingredient your cookies turn out a flop. Writing is much the same. If you add words that are too complicated or repetitive you create a piece that is hardly readable. If you don't add enough then your article has no substance.
According to William Zinsser, author of On Writing Well, “…the secret of good writing is to strip every sentence to its cleanest component.” When you read what you've written ask yourself whether that word is necessary to get your point across.
Avoid overusing words or phrases. If they are not essential to your point, eliminate them. If you feel they are necessary, but you've already used them too much then come up with a unique and interesting way to say what you want. A couple words I struggle with are “just” and “very.” Most of the time they are not needed, but they somehow manage to slip their way into my writing.
Another thing to remember is to keep your text simple by paying attention to word meaning. I've discussed this a little bit in a past blog, but using the wrong word is confusing to your reader and adds unnecessary complications to your writing. If you are even slightly confused about meaning, look it up.
Finally, it is important to consider the actual length of what you are writing. In this fast world we live in, people often don't have the time to spend more than a few minutes reading. So give them what they want in smaller doses. This is ideal in a blog situation where someone may enjoy what you write, but might not be able to read more than a few minutes at a time.
Writing is a skill--a craft. It is learned with time and experience and really education. Reading on writing is great. A couple books I recommend are William Zinsser's On Writing Well, and Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way. Those books and practice will help you develop a discerning eye--and take you to the next level of your writing career.
See ya next time!
~ On Writing Well by William Zinsser
Nothing in this world is quite as difficult as trying to read something that is not readable! Perhaps we don’t know there is junk in our writing. Or maybe we have a feeling, but for some reason are attached and cannot let go. We think we need it—our article cannot do without it. Maybe you think, “I can’t get rid of that comment. It’s a reflection of who I am.” The truth is, if it’s loaded with too much, your style and intent is lost on your reader anyway—likely because he quits reading.
If you aren’t sure whether your writing is filled with unnecessary junk, there is hope for you yet! Think of writing as a bit like baking. Baking is very precise. If you add too much or too little of an ingredient your cookies turn out a flop. Writing is much the same. If you add words that are too complicated or repetitive you create a piece that is hardly readable. If you don't add enough then your article has no substance.
According to William Zinsser, author of On Writing Well, “…the secret of good writing is to strip every sentence to its cleanest component.” When you read what you've written ask yourself whether that word is necessary to get your point across.
Avoid overusing words or phrases. If they are not essential to your point, eliminate them. If you feel they are necessary, but you've already used them too much then come up with a unique and interesting way to say what you want. A couple words I struggle with are “just” and “very.” Most of the time they are not needed, but they somehow manage to slip their way into my writing.
Another thing to remember is to keep your text simple by paying attention to word meaning. I've discussed this a little bit in a past blog, but using the wrong word is confusing to your reader and adds unnecessary complications to your writing. If you are even slightly confused about meaning, look it up.
Finally, it is important to consider the actual length of what you are writing. In this fast world we live in, people often don't have the time to spend more than a few minutes reading. So give them what they want in smaller doses. This is ideal in a blog situation where someone may enjoy what you write, but might not be able to read more than a few minutes at a time.
Writing is a skill--a craft. It is learned with time and experience and really education. Reading on writing is great. A couple books I recommend are William Zinsser's On Writing Well, and Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way. Those books and practice will help you develop a discerning eye--and take you to the next level of your writing career.
See ya next time!
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Our Many Roles
Many of us are parents, workers, athletes. Some are readers, bird watchers, pet owners and lovers. We are always writers, but we play many different roles in our lives. I took a few days off so that I could enjoy some of the other roles I play.
Sunday my husband and I were runners. We began our day at 6:00am so that we could drive to New York and run a 5K. Let’s just say that wasn’t the highlight of my day—or my favorite role! I love to run and exercise. We try to be active and live a healthy lifestyle, but running on a treadmill and running outside are two completely different running experiences! It took me 31 minutes to run 3.1 miles. I felt as though there were bricks attached to my feet! Would you like to know the worst part? I wanted to stop the moment I started. And I might have done just that, but Nick’s mom and dad came to support us. Turning around would have been mortifying! So I kept on running and I am glad I did.
The good news is we will be running another race in a couple of weeks and now that the weather is better I will be able to get in more outside runs. It will be a much better experience. I am a runner.
Monday the temperatures rose to over 70 degrees. We took on the role of landscaper and sunbather and did some spring cleanup. We tidied up the yard and cleaned out the car— much needed activities after a very long winter! All that work and sunshine was exhausting! I fell asleep before I could even consider turning my laptop on.
Yesterday was even nicer than Monday, so I played the role of fun mama and bad housekeeper. We played all day. Then I transformed back into good wifey and spent over three hours in the kitchen fixing an incredible lunch for Nick who has been working 12 hours all week for us. I realize how fortunate I am to have a husband who plays the hardworking breadwinner so I can stay home to be mama to our children—and writer whenever I can.
We are blessed to be complex people with many interests, pleasures, and activities in life. I hope you enjoy all the roles you play. In my next post I will be back as writer again. I plan to discuss the importance of keeping it simple as a writer. I hope to see you then.
Have a wonderful day!
Sunday my husband and I were runners. We began our day at 6:00am so that we could drive to New York and run a 5K. Let’s just say that wasn’t the highlight of my day—or my favorite role! I love to run and exercise. We try to be active and live a healthy lifestyle, but running on a treadmill and running outside are two completely different running experiences! It took me 31 minutes to run 3.1 miles. I felt as though there were bricks attached to my feet! Would you like to know the worst part? I wanted to stop the moment I started. And I might have done just that, but Nick’s mom and dad came to support us. Turning around would have been mortifying! So I kept on running and I am glad I did.
The good news is we will be running another race in a couple of weeks and now that the weather is better I will be able to get in more outside runs. It will be a much better experience. I am a runner.
Monday the temperatures rose to over 70 degrees. We took on the role of landscaper and sunbather and did some spring cleanup. We tidied up the yard and cleaned out the car— much needed activities after a very long winter! All that work and sunshine was exhausting! I fell asleep before I could even consider turning my laptop on.
Yesterday was even nicer than Monday, so I played the role of fun mama and bad housekeeper. We played all day. Then I transformed back into good wifey and spent over three hours in the kitchen fixing an incredible lunch for Nick who has been working 12 hours all week for us. I realize how fortunate I am to have a husband who plays the hardworking breadwinner so I can stay home to be mama to our children—and writer whenever I can.
We are blessed to be complex people with many interests, pleasures, and activities in life. I hope you enjoy all the roles you play. In my next post I will be back as writer again. I plan to discuss the importance of keeping it simple as a writer. I hope to see you then.
Have a wonderful day!
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Happy Saturday!
It’s Saturday morning. I’m sitting on my love seat while my blanket and my laptop keep me warm. My girls are cozied up on the other couch together, watching Saturday morning cartoons. I drink my morning cup of coffee out of my favorite “Lisa” mug that a dear friend gave me for my birthday. I realize that life is good. I am writing. I am thinking about what I have accomplished this week. I am thinking about what I want to accomplish in the week to come.
I’m going to be honest with you. Thursday was not a good day for me as a writer. It began as a lovely day. As you may recall the sun was shining and I felt inspired, but let’s just say the words were not exactly flowing from my fingertips. I felt discouraged and as though maybe I didn’t have anything worth saying. I blogged anyway.
Last night I received an email from Nancy Friedman of Away With Words. She is writing an article for Visual Thesaurus about why people blog. She came across my “Am I Talking to You” meme and thought my post was “pertinent” to her article. She also passed along a very nice compliment about my writing. She said her coming upon that post was “…a timely discovery indeed.” I chuckle at that because perhaps it was timelier for me! Thank you Nancy! You visited me at just the right time.
What I find most interesting about blogging is that just when I am feeling like my words don’t matter, someone drops me a thoughtful and encouraging comment. What a pick me up! I want my writing to make a difference in some way. If I pass along something that someone may find interesting or useful or offer someone some encouragement then I feel I have accomplished what I have set out to do. Of course, I have to admit there is a side that is a bit self-serving as well.
So that’s my Saturday morning message. I debated whether to share that vulnerable moment with you. I try to maintain an upbeat attitude on my blog, but really don't we all have those days? There’s no point in pretending that I don’t have them too. God has a way of working things out in intricate and meaningful ways for all of us. Now that's exciting!
See ya next time and have a happy Saturday!
I’m going to be honest with you. Thursday was not a good day for me as a writer. It began as a lovely day. As you may recall the sun was shining and I felt inspired, but let’s just say the words were not exactly flowing from my fingertips. I felt discouraged and as though maybe I didn’t have anything worth saying. I blogged anyway.
Last night I received an email from Nancy Friedman of Away With Words. She is writing an article for Visual Thesaurus about why people blog. She came across my “Am I Talking to You” meme and thought my post was “pertinent” to her article. She also passed along a very nice compliment about my writing. She said her coming upon that post was “…a timely discovery indeed.” I chuckle at that because perhaps it was timelier for me! Thank you Nancy! You visited me at just the right time.
What I find most interesting about blogging is that just when I am feeling like my words don’t matter, someone drops me a thoughtful and encouraging comment. What a pick me up! I want my writing to make a difference in some way. If I pass along something that someone may find interesting or useful or offer someone some encouragement then I feel I have accomplished what I have set out to do. Of course, I have to admit there is a side that is a bit self-serving as well.
So that’s my Saturday morning message. I debated whether to share that vulnerable moment with you. I try to maintain an upbeat attitude on my blog, but really don't we all have those days? There’s no point in pretending that I don’t have them too. God has a way of working things out in intricate and meaningful ways for all of us. Now that's exciting!
See ya next time and have a happy Saturday!
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Sunshine and Ramblings
It’s a beautiful morning. The sun is shining and it’s already 59 degrees. I’m feeling inspired so thought I better blog because it’s supposed to rain all afternoon—no telling how inspiring that may be!
Beyond the weather, I am also feeling motivated by the success of others. Yesterday, Harmony Cornwell of Writer in the Making blog posted about all that she has accomplished so far this month. Wow! Great job, Harmony. You’ve done excellent, and made me realize that I need to be pushing myself a little more.
About a month ago, I heard from a client in Texas (yes, I know this is off topic—hence the rambling part of the title). In December I wrote a press release for her that really helped increase her exposure in the media. In fact, an editor from Entrepreneur Magazine contacted her via email to do an interview for a potential future article. She was excited. So was I.
But being the skeptic that I can sometimes be, I decided to check out the legitimacy of the email she received. I went to the library to view the list of editors in Entrepreneur Mag to see if any were the one she had heard from. Sure enough, there was Kim Orr, the very editor who contacted her. So this really was great. It will be even greater if they do a write up about her. I really do care about her business, and I’d love to think that my press release may have helped her with some amount of success.
Of course, since I had the magazine in my hand I read it. I found it to be an excellent source of info! Right on the table of contents page—before even getting to the real meat and potatoes of the magazine—is a section called “Resources.” This is a list of useful websites, organizations, and events for all kinds of business owners, large and small alike.
Another section I enjoyed was called “Small-Business Answer Book.” This is a Q&A segment offering advice on topics such as marketing your business on a budget, improving customer service, and how to keep up with current technology trends. All of these are important topics for any business owner. I looked through a few recent issues and this seems to be in most of them.
If these resources aren’t for you, then maybe you may at least find the success stories inspirational to read. I think it’s great to read how others have made it and what they have done to find their success. For me, it makes me feel hopeful that I can apply what I have learned, follow the example of freelancers around me, and find my own success.
Beyond the weather, I am also feeling motivated by the success of others. Yesterday, Harmony Cornwell of Writer in the Making blog posted about all that she has accomplished so far this month. Wow! Great job, Harmony. You’ve done excellent, and made me realize that I need to be pushing myself a little more.
About a month ago, I heard from a client in Texas (yes, I know this is off topic—hence the rambling part of the title). In December I wrote a press release for her that really helped increase her exposure in the media. In fact, an editor from Entrepreneur Magazine contacted her via email to do an interview for a potential future article. She was excited. So was I.
But being the skeptic that I can sometimes be, I decided to check out the legitimacy of the email she received. I went to the library to view the list of editors in Entrepreneur Mag to see if any were the one she had heard from. Sure enough, there was Kim Orr, the very editor who contacted her. So this really was great. It will be even greater if they do a write up about her. I really do care about her business, and I’d love to think that my press release may have helped her with some amount of success.
Of course, since I had the magazine in my hand I read it. I found it to be an excellent source of info! Right on the table of contents page—before even getting to the real meat and potatoes of the magazine—is a section called “Resources.” This is a list of useful websites, organizations, and events for all kinds of business owners, large and small alike.
Another section I enjoyed was called “Small-Business Answer Book.” This is a Q&A segment offering advice on topics such as marketing your business on a budget, improving customer service, and how to keep up with current technology trends. All of these are important topics for any business owner. I looked through a few recent issues and this seems to be in most of them.
If these resources aren’t for you, then maybe you may at least find the success stories inspirational to read. I think it’s great to read how others have made it and what they have done to find their success. For me, it makes me feel hopeful that I can apply what I have learned, follow the example of freelancers around me, and find my own success.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Information Overload?
In one magazine I read today I learned some great information. Never let it be said that I am not a loyal friend to my fellow writers in the blogosphere. I thought it would only be considerate of me to share just a few tidbits of what I learned with all of you. Take it for what it’s worth.
Did you know that sipping four to six cups of black tea a day can significantly reduce high levels of stress in your body? Be sure, however, not to add milk as it interferes with the heart-healthy benefits that this practically holy beverage offers. Once you have had your quota of stress relief for the day, treat yourself to a snack of kiwi fruit, which is loaded with vitamin C, will help ward off spring colds, and give your skin a beautiful glow. If concerns of aging before your time plague your thoughts, try squeezing a pomegranate in with the kiwi to firm your skin, and erase wrinkles--and drink an extra cup of tea! After eating and drinking all that healthy good stuff, you surely deserve a treat! So go on and indulge yourself in America’s favorite Girl Scout cookie, the delectable chocolate covered Thin Mint! And that’s not all. Great news for you if you are a fidgeter! Go ahead; eat an extra cookie or two because you have the potential to burn up to 350 extra calories a day.
Information is everywhere! It's almost crazy. So what do we do with it all? There are a couple options to choose from. Option number one is to turn off our computers and televisions, and discontinue all of our magazine subscriptions. We could build ourselves a cabin in the wilderness and live off the land. I mean really, sometimes all that info is pretty darn stressful in itself.
Thank goodness that’s not the only option available. Information is good. It’s all a part of learning, and learning is what helps us to realize our potential. But first, we absolutely must make sure it’s accurate and our sources are legitimate. Then we can take all of that information one piece at a time and do something with it. We can apply it to our lives and make healthier choices. Or being the creative writers that we are, we can use that abundance of info for research and great stories. Don’t be afraid to add your own element to something already done. Don't let it overload you. Take that info and run with it!
Take care, and see ya next time!
Did you know that sipping four to six cups of black tea a day can significantly reduce high levels of stress in your body? Be sure, however, not to add milk as it interferes with the heart-healthy benefits that this practically holy beverage offers. Once you have had your quota of stress relief for the day, treat yourself to a snack of kiwi fruit, which is loaded with vitamin C, will help ward off spring colds, and give your skin a beautiful glow. If concerns of aging before your time plague your thoughts, try squeezing a pomegranate in with the kiwi to firm your skin, and erase wrinkles--and drink an extra cup of tea! After eating and drinking all that healthy good stuff, you surely deserve a treat! So go on and indulge yourself in America’s favorite Girl Scout cookie, the delectable chocolate covered Thin Mint! And that’s not all. Great news for you if you are a fidgeter! Go ahead; eat an extra cookie or two because you have the potential to burn up to 350 extra calories a day.
Information is everywhere! It's almost crazy. So what do we do with it all? There are a couple options to choose from. Option number one is to turn off our computers and televisions, and discontinue all of our magazine subscriptions. We could build ourselves a cabin in the wilderness and live off the land. I mean really, sometimes all that info is pretty darn stressful in itself.
Thank goodness that’s not the only option available. Information is good. It’s all a part of learning, and learning is what helps us to realize our potential. But first, we absolutely must make sure it’s accurate and our sources are legitimate. Then we can take all of that information one piece at a time and do something with it. We can apply it to our lives and make healthier choices. Or being the creative writers that we are, we can use that abundance of info for research and great stories. Don’t be afraid to add your own element to something already done. Don't let it overload you. Take that info and run with it!
Take care, and see ya next time!
Thursday, March 15, 2007
A Little Attitude!
Tuesday's meme was a good experience for me. It allowed me to step back and reassess who I am blogging to and whether I am meeting all of their needs. Carson Brackney not only tagged me with the meme, but he also took the time to break down my questions and give me some much needed feedback. In addition to the color issues that I will be taking care of, he pointed out that it would be nice to see a few attitude and perspective pieces. I won't be giving you "attitude" mind you, but for today I will stray away from the educational element of my blog.
I have been faithfully reading other's blogs for about a month now. I enjoy reading about people's lives--more specifically their successes. I happened upon Temlyn Writing today and read that she was having a hard time posting to her blog because she recently got a new gig. She just got hired as a copy editor and proofreader for Chippewa Publishing. Good for her! Her success is great inspiration for me.
I don't enjoy reading the negative stuff, but I appreciate it when people post about them because others may learn from those situations. Leigh Zaykoski of Wealth of Words recently posted about her frustration with a client that won't pay. This post reminded me (as a newbie to freelancing) of the importance of making sure you get contracts and keep records of everything. Kathy Kehrli of Screw You! posted about the frustrations of her web server being down last week. So although I don't hope for entries about the non-pleasantries in peoples' lives, they do serve a purpose. We all have bad days. Our job is to rise above them. Perhaps these posts allows us to do just that.
I am happy to report a minor success in my writing business. I recently got an email from a man who had somehow managed to find my web site and blog. He is looking for someone to edit his book proposal and possibly for some help writing his book. I could see from viewing my site statistics that he spent a lot of time reading my blog and web site. Hopefully this is an indicator that he is seriously considering me for this job. I realize that nothing may come of it, but to me it's still success because someone found my site, and took me seriously enough to consider hiring me. Yippee!
There's my little two cents to the blogging community. Take it for what it's worth! See ya next time!
I have been faithfully reading other's blogs for about a month now. I enjoy reading about people's lives--more specifically their successes. I happened upon Temlyn Writing today and read that she was having a hard time posting to her blog because she recently got a new gig. She just got hired as a copy editor and proofreader for Chippewa Publishing. Good for her! Her success is great inspiration for me.
I don't enjoy reading the negative stuff, but I appreciate it when people post about them because others may learn from those situations. Leigh Zaykoski of Wealth of Words recently posted about her frustration with a client that won't pay. This post reminded me (as a newbie to freelancing) of the importance of making sure you get contracts and keep records of everything. Kathy Kehrli of Screw You! posted about the frustrations of her web server being down last week. So although I don't hope for entries about the non-pleasantries in peoples' lives, they do serve a purpose. We all have bad days. Our job is to rise above them. Perhaps these posts allows us to do just that.
I am happy to report a minor success in my writing business. I recently got an email from a man who had somehow managed to find my web site and blog. He is looking for someone to edit his book proposal and possibly for some help writing his book. I could see from viewing my site statistics that he spent a lot of time reading my blog and web site. Hopefully this is an indicator that he is seriously considering me for this job. I realize that nothing may come of it, but to me it's still success because someone found my site, and took me seriously enough to consider hiring me. Yippee!
There's my little two cents to the blogging community. Take it for what it's worth! See ya next time!
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Am I Talking to You (Meme)
As my first time as a meme participant I'd like to thank Carson Brackney of Content Done Better for tagging me! This meme is a more in-depth look at what my purpose is for my blog, who my intended blog audience is, and whether or not I am reaching them. The meme begins with two questions:
(1) To whom are you blogging?
(2) Am I talking to you?
First, to whom am I blogging? I first began blogging in 2005 as a way to share a little bit of my personal life with family, friends, and anyone who was interested in reading what I had to say. For me, it was a way to utilize my writing skills until my baby was old enough to allow me to share my time with others.
Last November, I decided the time had come for me to begin working toward a career in freelance writing--a lifetime dream and goal of mine. I created my website, www.onlinefreelancewriter.com, in an attempt to sell my services. I began learning everything I could to circulate my name on the internet with the hope of bringing some business my way.
I joined writer's forums, and began reading lots of great blogs. Content Done Better was actually the first one I came to, and is where I have learned a lot of useful information. In February, I decided to give my blog a makeover. This brings me to question one. I created Getting it Write for You for writers and prospective clients.
My desire is to encourage, teach and inspire writers of all genres. Really, it's my way of giving back to the freelancing community. I have to say that everyone I have contacted in request of link exchange or advice has been unbelievably helpful to me. Thank you for that. I can also see by watching my site statistics that you have been visiting my blog faithfully.
Of course, my other motivation is the hope that I may drive some potential clients my way. A client interested in my services may visit my website, but might like to see a different sampling of my writing. Or perhaps they will visit my blog first and then follow the link to my site. Either way is great.
I really hope for this blog to serve as a humble example of my expertise and knowledge. I want it to suit both your needs as well as my own. This brings me to part two of this meme. Am I talking to you? Let me thank you right now, if you are one who has ever left me any feedback. It's great fun to get it, and it lets me know that someone has found some value in what I have written about.
My writing blog is fairly new so I think it is an opportune time to ask you a few questions that I hope you will feel free to answer honestly.
* What do you like about this blog?
* What do you dislike about this blog?
* What would you like to see here in the future?
* Do you have a favorite post (and why)?
* What can I do to keep you coming back?
I'm tagging:
* Betsy Henning because she is an amazing writer who has valuable things to say, and has kept me encouraged as a writer.
* Leigh Zaykoski of Wealth of Words and Kathy Kehrli of Screw You! because they have both been so encouraging and helpful to me as a newbie in the freelancing world.
I look up to all of you so much. Thank you!
(1) To whom are you blogging?
(2) Am I talking to you?
First, to whom am I blogging? I first began blogging in 2005 as a way to share a little bit of my personal life with family, friends, and anyone who was interested in reading what I had to say. For me, it was a way to utilize my writing skills until my baby was old enough to allow me to share my time with others.
Last November, I decided the time had come for me to begin working toward a career in freelance writing--a lifetime dream and goal of mine. I created my website, www.onlinefreelancewriter.com, in an attempt to sell my services. I began learning everything I could to circulate my name on the internet with the hope of bringing some business my way.
I joined writer's forums, and began reading lots of great blogs. Content Done Better was actually the first one I came to, and is where I have learned a lot of useful information. In February, I decided to give my blog a makeover. This brings me to question one. I created Getting it Write for You for writers and prospective clients.
My desire is to encourage, teach and inspire writers of all genres. Really, it's my way of giving back to the freelancing community. I have to say that everyone I have contacted in request of link exchange or advice has been unbelievably helpful to me. Thank you for that. I can also see by watching my site statistics that you have been visiting my blog faithfully.
Of course, my other motivation is the hope that I may drive some potential clients my way. A client interested in my services may visit my website, but might like to see a different sampling of my writing. Or perhaps they will visit my blog first and then follow the link to my site. Either way is great.
I really hope for this blog to serve as a humble example of my expertise and knowledge. I want it to suit both your needs as well as my own. This brings me to part two of this meme. Am I talking to you? Let me thank you right now, if you are one who has ever left me any feedback. It's great fun to get it, and it lets me know that someone has found some value in what I have written about.
My writing blog is fairly new so I think it is an opportune time to ask you a few questions that I hope you will feel free to answer honestly.
* What do you like about this blog?
* What do you dislike about this blog?
* What would you like to see here in the future?
* Do you have a favorite post (and why)?
* What can I do to keep you coming back?
I'm tagging:
* Betsy Henning because she is an amazing writer who has valuable things to say, and has kept me encouraged as a writer.
* Leigh Zaykoski of Wealth of Words and Kathy Kehrli of Screw You! because they have both been so encouraging and helpful to me as a newbie in the freelancing world.
I look up to all of you so much. Thank you!
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Get Those Ideas Down!
About a month ago, I was driving to a friend's house, thinking about writing and all things related. A great idea popped into my head. I was so excited about it and just knew this idea would be my greatest story ever! I even thought of the perfect inspirational quote. Now, I really don't consider myself to be seeping full of wisdom, but I'm telling you, this quote was wise. Then, the most tragic thing happened to me. I arrived at my friend's house, got involved in other things and completely lost my entire idea--including the quote that I would some day be noted for! Anybody out there feel my pain?
What I learned from this situation is that if you are going to be a writer, you need to do as the great writing instructors of our time tell you to do: Write those ideas down! Here are a few suggestions to help you out with that.
(1) Start your own version of a swipe file. A swipe file is a folder of tested and proven ads, headlines, brochures, and sales letters. Journalists or advertising copy writers often keep a swipe file to refer to for project ideas. Every once in a while a story headline pops into my head. My story might have a different twist to a story I read in a magazine, or maybe something else might trigger the idea. But it's important to get that headline down--undeveloped or not. Create a folder on your computer that is specifically for this purpose. Label it as your "swipe file." Then when you are going through one of those slumps when you don't have any story ideas, you have something to refer to--and it might just be what you need to get inspired again.
(2) Consider the rooms in your house that you frequent the most. For me this is the kitchen and the living room. Make sure to have notebooks and pens at convenient locations in those rooms. When an idea hits, you can quickly write it down before you lose it. I have even put a notebook and two pens in my car--I really learned my lesson!
(3) Maybe this sounds a little cheesy, but carry a tape recorder around with you. It's great for those times when it is inconvenient to write. I did this recently while making bread. My hands were too gooey to use a pen and paper so I pulled out my recorder and hit that little red button. This is also a safer alternative when you are driving.
So there they are--three suggestions to help you get those ideas down. Will I ever make the same mistake again? Probably, but I can honestly say that these ideas have already helped me a lot. I hope they help you too.
What I learned from this situation is that if you are going to be a writer, you need to do as the great writing instructors of our time tell you to do: Write those ideas down! Here are a few suggestions to help you out with that.
(1) Start your own version of a swipe file. A swipe file is a folder of tested and proven ads, headlines, brochures, and sales letters. Journalists or advertising copy writers often keep a swipe file to refer to for project ideas. Every once in a while a story headline pops into my head. My story might have a different twist to a story I read in a magazine, or maybe something else might trigger the idea. But it's important to get that headline down--undeveloped or not. Create a folder on your computer that is specifically for this purpose. Label it as your "swipe file." Then when you are going through one of those slumps when you don't have any story ideas, you have something to refer to--and it might just be what you need to get inspired again.
(2) Consider the rooms in your house that you frequent the most. For me this is the kitchen and the living room. Make sure to have notebooks and pens at convenient locations in those rooms. When an idea hits, you can quickly write it down before you lose it. I have even put a notebook and two pens in my car--I really learned my lesson!
(3) Maybe this sounds a little cheesy, but carry a tape recorder around with you. It's great for those times when it is inconvenient to write. I did this recently while making bread. My hands were too gooey to use a pen and paper so I pulled out my recorder and hit that little red button. This is also a safer alternative when you are driving.
So there they are--three suggestions to help you get those ideas down. Will I ever make the same mistake again? Probably, but I can honestly say that these ideas have already helped me a lot. I hope they help you too.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Be a Better Writer: Avoid These Common Mistakes!
In my last blog I discussed the difference between proofreading and editing—both very important elements of writing. Understanding the difference is great, but what can you look for that goes beyond the basics of punctuation?
Incorrect word usage is something that often grabs my attention when I am reading an article. When words are used improperly, the writer automatically loses credibility. You must be vigilant about choosing the correct words and using them in the correct context.
As a writer, you must thoughtfully choose the words you use—whether it’s for a short story, poetry, or writing a cover letter. The following examples are some of the most commonly made mistakes that I see, but should be avoided at all costs.
(1) Anxious vs. eager - I see this mistake all the time. Anyone who has ever had anxiety knows that there is an extreme difference between being anxious and eager. If you are looking forward to meeting your favorite author, you would not say, "I am anxious to meet Stephen King." Instead you would be eager to meet him--unless you are afraid he might act out a gruesome scene from one of his books. Then you might be anxious.
(2) Center on vs. revolve around – Often writers will combine the two and instead write “center around.” Well, you can’t be in the center and around at the same time. I might say that I want you to center your attention on my blog right now.
(3) Concerted effort - one person cannot make a concert but he can make a concentrated effort.
(4) Accept vs. except – accept means to take, and except means to leave out. Try to remember that the “x” in except means to exclude. Please accept my advice on word usage--except when I make mistakes!
(5) Criterion vs. criteria - Some words with Latin or Greek roots have plural forms that end in “a.” These words are commonly mistaken for singular words. Remember you have one criterion and many criteria.
(6) A lot vs. alot – ok, so this one is very basic and not really about meaning, but I see it misused so often, I think it’s worth mentioning. Remember that “a lot” is always two words—not one. But you can allot a job to a friend.
I hope these suggestions will help you when working on your writing project—whatever it may be. Choose your words carefully, and remember it’s the simple things that add up to make you an expert in the writing world.
Incorrect word usage is something that often grabs my attention when I am reading an article. When words are used improperly, the writer automatically loses credibility. You must be vigilant about choosing the correct words and using them in the correct context.
As a writer, you must thoughtfully choose the words you use—whether it’s for a short story, poetry, or writing a cover letter. The following examples are some of the most commonly made mistakes that I see, but should be avoided at all costs.
(1) Anxious vs. eager - I see this mistake all the time. Anyone who has ever had anxiety knows that there is an extreme difference between being anxious and eager. If you are looking forward to meeting your favorite author, you would not say, "I am anxious to meet Stephen King." Instead you would be eager to meet him--unless you are afraid he might act out a gruesome scene from one of his books. Then you might be anxious.
(2) Center on vs. revolve around – Often writers will combine the two and instead write “center around.” Well, you can’t be in the center and around at the same time. I might say that I want you to center your attention on my blog right now.
(3) Concerted effort - one person cannot make a concert but he can make a concentrated effort.
(4) Accept vs. except – accept means to take, and except means to leave out. Try to remember that the “x” in except means to exclude. Please accept my advice on word usage--except when I make mistakes!
(5) Criterion vs. criteria - Some words with Latin or Greek roots have plural forms that end in “a.” These words are commonly mistaken for singular words. Remember you have one criterion and many criteria.
(6) A lot vs. alot – ok, so this one is very basic and not really about meaning, but I see it misused so often, I think it’s worth mentioning. Remember that “a lot” is always two words—not one. But you can allot a job to a friend.
I hope these suggestions will help you when working on your writing project—whatever it may be. Choose your words carefully, and remember it’s the simple things that add up to make you an expert in the writing world.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Proofreading Vs. Substantive Editing
Perhaps something that not everyone knows is that editing has more than one facet. Although not exactly a diamond in itself, good editing may take your story from a diamond in the rough to a priceless piece of literature.
Editing at its most basic level is known as proofreading. It is looking over a document for simple grammatical errors. Spelling, punctuation, word order or word agreement (too instead of to) are all things a proofreader looks at. It's often done after a more intensive edit and is usually the final check before submittal.
Substantive editing (also known as developmental editing and comprehensive editing) is a much more thorough overhaul. Changes may be made for improvement of clarity, organization, and overall structure. The intended purpose of the article is always on the forefront of the editor's mind, and the readers are a huge consideration. The editor will decide whether the language is relevant and appropriate, and if the article will make sense to them. It may require a partial or total rewrite of an article. A substantive edit will often cost more because there is usually much more work involved.
Proofreading and substantive editing are both important for their own reasons. Proofreading is important for the simple reason that it's the little mistakes we make that ruin our credibility as writers. It's those very mistakes that say if a writer doesn't care enough about his piece to fix the small stuff, then why should anyone else? The unfortunate result is that the best story you ever wrote ends up in the circular file.
Substantive editing is equally important because if an article does not read well, you will lose the reader's interest. If you lose the reader's interest, then once again, credibility is lost.
So if you want to make a career of writing, or if you want to write something that people will keep on reading, then do yourself a favor and take the extra time to turn your article into a sparkling diamond.
Editing at its most basic level is known as proofreading. It is looking over a document for simple grammatical errors. Spelling, punctuation, word order or word agreement (too instead of to) are all things a proofreader looks at. It's often done after a more intensive edit and is usually the final check before submittal.
Substantive editing (also known as developmental editing and comprehensive editing) is a much more thorough overhaul. Changes may be made for improvement of clarity, organization, and overall structure. The intended purpose of the article is always on the forefront of the editor's mind, and the readers are a huge consideration. The editor will decide whether the language is relevant and appropriate, and if the article will make sense to them. It may require a partial or total rewrite of an article. A substantive edit will often cost more because there is usually much more work involved.
Proofreading and substantive editing are both important for their own reasons. Proofreading is important for the simple reason that it's the little mistakes we make that ruin our credibility as writers. It's those very mistakes that say if a writer doesn't care enough about his piece to fix the small stuff, then why should anyone else? The unfortunate result is that the best story you ever wrote ends up in the circular file.
Substantive editing is equally important because if an article does not read well, you will lose the reader's interest. If you lose the reader's interest, then once again, credibility is lost.
So if you want to make a career of writing, or if you want to write something that people will keep on reading, then do yourself a favor and take the extra time to turn your article into a sparkling diamond.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Attention Aspiring Writers!
Am I a writer? This is a question I have heard asked so many times before. I've seen it posted on writers forums. Friends of mine who love writing have asked it. Even I find myself asking this very question. It seems to be a question posed among all writers—well maybe not established writers like Stephen King, or Dean Koontz, but by many of those who aspire to write.
So when do you get past that point of asking this question? What do you have to do to actually consider yourself a writer? I’m sure it's different for everyone. For some, the mere act of doing is enough—acting on that inherent need to tell a story—whether in the form of a poem or a short story or a book. I call these the “Just do it!” writers, and man, they got it going on! For others, it’s all about getting published. Publication used to be the definer for me, but now I think having people look forward to reading something I have written would be a step in the right direction.
You don’t have to be published to be a writer, but getting your priorities straight will put you on the right path. First thing’s first: Fear not. Do not fear success or failure, or what others will think of your writing. Franklin D. Roosevelt once said in a famous inaugural speech, “The only thing to fear is fear itself.” Fear is the great immobilizer and if we sit frozen in our seats, we will never meet our goals.
Secondly, read whatever you can get your hands on that will help you to be a better writer. Writing resources are everywhere. You can go to your local library and check out all sorts of books. On Writing Well by William Zinsser and Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott are just a couple of my personal favorites. There are also many websites out there that offer writing prompts, list contests, and have writer’s forums you can join to talk with fellow writers—who probably feel have the same feelings as you. My personal favorite is the Writer’s Digest website.
Read books that have nothing to do with writing. Every time you read a piece of literature—whether it’s an essay or a book—you are gleaning something important from it that will make you a better writer. It might be an idea or a certain style, or maybe it will change your entire opinion on something. Maybe it won’t, but you will at least have a new viewpoint that improves your writing in some way.
Finally, if you want to be a writer, you must consider yourself as such and write—like those in the “Just do it!” category. Tell your story. Write your poem. Express yourself with words however you like. Set goals then strive toward them. Publication does not matter, nor do accolades from your peers. What really matters is how you feel when you read the words you put to paper.
Now ask yourself, Am I a writer? If you say you are and you are taking the necessary steps to propel yourself toward your writing goals, then as sure as the sun rises every morning you are a writer.
So when do you get past that point of asking this question? What do you have to do to actually consider yourself a writer? I’m sure it's different for everyone. For some, the mere act of doing is enough—acting on that inherent need to tell a story—whether in the form of a poem or a short story or a book. I call these the “Just do it!” writers, and man, they got it going on! For others, it’s all about getting published. Publication used to be the definer for me, but now I think having people look forward to reading something I have written would be a step in the right direction.
You don’t have to be published to be a writer, but getting your priorities straight will put you on the right path. First thing’s first: Fear not. Do not fear success or failure, or what others will think of your writing. Franklin D. Roosevelt once said in a famous inaugural speech, “The only thing to fear is fear itself.” Fear is the great immobilizer and if we sit frozen in our seats, we will never meet our goals.
Secondly, read whatever you can get your hands on that will help you to be a better writer. Writing resources are everywhere. You can go to your local library and check out all sorts of books. On Writing Well by William Zinsser and Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott are just a couple of my personal favorites. There are also many websites out there that offer writing prompts, list contests, and have writer’s forums you can join to talk with fellow writers—who probably feel have the same feelings as you. My personal favorite is the Writer’s Digest website.
Read books that have nothing to do with writing. Every time you read a piece of literature—whether it’s an essay or a book—you are gleaning something important from it that will make you a better writer. It might be an idea or a certain style, or maybe it will change your entire opinion on something. Maybe it won’t, but you will at least have a new viewpoint that improves your writing in some way.
Finally, if you want to be a writer, you must consider yourself as such and write—like those in the “Just do it!” category. Tell your story. Write your poem. Express yourself with words however you like. Set goals then strive toward them. Publication does not matter, nor do accolades from your peers. What really matters is how you feel when you read the words you put to paper.
Now ask yourself, Am I a writer? If you say you are and you are taking the necessary steps to propel yourself toward your writing goals, then as sure as the sun rises every morning you are a writer.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
The Writing Life
Ok. So I have been gone for a while. Notice a pattern at all? I didn't think so! I'm in denial--sometimes a great place to be! Anyway, at least I have been writing. In fact, I have spent a lot of time writing lately--and even more wishing to write. I guess I can't say wishing. I have been pretty busy preparing myself for a career in freelance writing. And now, I am taking action and committing myself to more writing! But first, here is what I have been up to.
Back in November, I acquired (by a sheer miracle of God I am quite certain) a writing customer from Texas. She needed help writing articles and doing web site editing. I was so excited and thankful for her business and I have been doing work for her ever since. My first project was a press release. Then I wrote an article for her monthly newsletter. Other than that, I have been helping her to edit her web site.
One of the first things she asked me when she called to find out more about what I do was, "Do you have a web site?" Well, I didn't. In fact, I knew not one thing about creating a web site. I didn't even know the definition of a domain name. As soon as I completed her press release, I began research into getting my first, very own, very official web site. (Feel free to check it out at www.onlinefreelancewriter.com. In fact, don't hesitate to leave some feedback here if you have any comments or suggestions.) I was very fortunate to have my little brother, Matt, who helped me with the template. He knows way more than just what a domain name is.
Anyway, putting my web site together has consumed a lot of my time, but I have also focused on other things. The Jan/Feb edition of the Writer's Digest is featuring an essay contest for the Writer Mama (or Papa). I sat down and brainstormed some ideas and wrote an essay. I let it cool for a couple weeks, reread it, edited it, and repeated that process two more times. Yesterday I submitted it. What a great feeling! This is the first essay contest I have entered since college and I am happy to have done that much. Even if I don't win, at least I attempted. Nobody wins if they don't try!
Other than that, I have been trying to establish myself as a writer on freelance sites like www.elance.com and www.guru.com. For anyone who doesn't know, employers post freelance work on these web sites. Freelancers view the jobs and if they believe they are competent enough to do it, they bid on it. They offer their best proposal and hope to be the chosen one. After a specified period of time the bidding ends. The employer views all of the bids and then chooses the one that fits his criteria the best. I'm not going to lie, other than making the attempt at trying to get jobs (because there is at least amall amount of success in that), I have had no success at all. But I haven't given up. There's success in that too, is there not?
So this is what I have been doing these last few months. I have also decided that I will post a writing related blog right here at least once a week. It will hopefully be something that people will find useful in some way. Maybe it will be a small article on when to use semi colons, or maybe it will be something lengthy on how to stay inspired as a writer. Regardless it will be interesting and writing related. If anyone has any suggestions on a topic I could write about, please let me know. I will do my best!
Until next time, keep on writing!
Back in November, I acquired (by a sheer miracle of God I am quite certain) a writing customer from Texas. She needed help writing articles and doing web site editing. I was so excited and thankful for her business and I have been doing work for her ever since. My first project was a press release. Then I wrote an article for her monthly newsletter. Other than that, I have been helping her to edit her web site.
One of the first things she asked me when she called to find out more about what I do was, "Do you have a web site?" Well, I didn't. In fact, I knew not one thing about creating a web site. I didn't even know the definition of a domain name. As soon as I completed her press release, I began research into getting my first, very own, very official web site. (Feel free to check it out at www.onlinefreelancewriter.com. In fact, don't hesitate to leave some feedback here if you have any comments or suggestions.) I was very fortunate to have my little brother, Matt, who helped me with the template. He knows way more than just what a domain name is.
Anyway, putting my web site together has consumed a lot of my time, but I have also focused on other things. The Jan/Feb edition of the Writer's Digest is featuring an essay contest for the Writer Mama (or Papa). I sat down and brainstormed some ideas and wrote an essay. I let it cool for a couple weeks, reread it, edited it, and repeated that process two more times. Yesterday I submitted it. What a great feeling! This is the first essay contest I have entered since college and I am happy to have done that much. Even if I don't win, at least I attempted. Nobody wins if they don't try!
Other than that, I have been trying to establish myself as a writer on freelance sites like www.elance.com and www.guru.com. For anyone who doesn't know, employers post freelance work on these web sites. Freelancers view the jobs and if they believe they are competent enough to do it, they bid on it. They offer their best proposal and hope to be the chosen one. After a specified period of time the bidding ends. The employer views all of the bids and then chooses the one that fits his criteria the best. I'm not going to lie, other than making the attempt at trying to get jobs (because there is at least amall amount of success in that), I have had no success at all. But I haven't given up. There's success in that too, is there not?
So this is what I have been doing these last few months. I have also decided that I will post a writing related blog right here at least once a week. It will hopefully be something that people will find useful in some way. Maybe it will be a small article on when to use semi colons, or maybe it will be something lengthy on how to stay inspired as a writer. Regardless it will be interesting and writing related. If anyone has any suggestions on a topic I could write about, please let me know. I will do my best!
Until next time, keep on writing!
Monday, August 21, 2006
Getting it Done Part II
Well, I entitled my last blog "Getting It Done." Well, I never got it done becauses I never got around to why I tiltled it as such. I was too busy trying to figure how to download pictures. But we spent the other half of that weekend landscaping and making our yard beautiful. I will try and download pictures.
Here is Chloe helping us to water the plants in the hosta ring. I put some black-eyed suzans in the middle.
Here is the hosta ring completed.
This is the front before we mulched it. I don't think I have a picture since we mulched it and finished planting. I will get on that tomorrow.
But here's one that has some of the plants with red mulch.
And here's one that is simply cute! Love that sleepy face!
What an angel! I need to count my blessings--she is definitely one of them.
Anyway, those are just a couple projects that have been nearly completed since Nick has been on second shift. It has been a real treat and it is exciting to see how God really does care about our happiness. Nick was nearly at the end of his rope working on third shift. It was hard for him both physically and mentally to work all night only to come home and get three or four hours of sleep. It would be hard for anyone really. But we prayed about it. A couple good friends prayed, and the girls and I prayed. Then one night, when Nick was almost at the end of his rope he called home and told me that he was going to be able to work second shift for five or six weeks while he filled for a man that just had knee surgery. It wasn't permanent but it was a much needed break--and were we ever excited and thankful!
Well, we are going on six weeks this week. We have still been praying. Over the weekend, Nick was told that he could have second shift for good if he wanted it. Of course he didn't even have to think about it. He wants it. God cares about Nick. He cares about whether he is happy. He cares about us all. Even me. Undeserving me. How great is our God? Thank you, God, for your never ending, goodness.
Here is Chloe helping us to water the plants in the hosta ring. I put some black-eyed suzans in the middle.
Here is the hosta ring completed.
This is the front before we mulched it. I don't think I have a picture since we mulched it and finished planting. I will get on that tomorrow.
But here's one that has some of the plants with red mulch.
And here's one that is simply cute! Love that sleepy face!
What an angel! I need to count my blessings--she is definitely one of them. Anyway, those are just a couple projects that have been nearly completed since Nick has been on second shift. It has been a real treat and it is exciting to see how God really does care about our happiness. Nick was nearly at the end of his rope working on third shift. It was hard for him both physically and mentally to work all night only to come home and get three or four hours of sleep. It would be hard for anyone really. But we prayed about it. A couple good friends prayed, and the girls and I prayed. Then one night, when Nick was almost at the end of his rope he called home and told me that he was going to be able to work second shift for five or six weeks while he filled for a man that just had knee surgery. It wasn't permanent but it was a much needed break--and were we ever excited and thankful!
Well, we are going on six weeks this week. We have still been praying. Over the weekend, Nick was told that he could have second shift for good if he wanted it. Of course he didn't even have to think about it. He wants it. God cares about Nick. He cares about whether he is happy. He cares about us all. Even me. Undeserving me. How great is our God? Thank you, God, for your never ending, goodness.
Monday, August 07, 2006
Getting it Done
We have spent the last few days having lots of fun and being productive--even the productive part was fun! The weather was gorgeous on Satruday--not too hot and certainly not as humid as it has been recently. We spent most of the day outside trying to decide what we should do. By 4:0pm we decided to go to Presque Isle and go grocery shopping after. We got there just in time to let the girls play while we caught a few rays. We chose a spot that appeared to be clean, put our blanket down, and let the girls go at it. Just as Nick and I were thinking that we could really enjoy this, Chloe frantically announced to us that she had to go to the bathroom. That's even worse than getting all the winter gear on--the gloves, the hats, the snowsuits, and boots--and making the famous bathroom announcement. LOL. That's ok. We took care of that and then enjoyed the rest of our trip--at least until Danielle informed us that she didn't bring her clothes. Fortunately, I brought an extra outfit and we are not too far off in size. Fun! Fun! Fun!
I will try and post a picture. I really liked this one--perhaps it's just because I like Chloe's fat little pudgies, or maybe its the way the water is just about to rush over them. It just looks neat. I can't believe how long it takes to upload pictures! Surely there is an easier way... Hmm... Well, maybe I won't be posting as many as I was hoping to tonight. Tomorrow, I had better ask my blogging friend if there is a more time efficient way of doing this.
Well, "tomorrow" has now become "today." I have had a difficult time with this picture postijng thing. Still optimistic... Yes! Mission accomplished. Here are a couple others that I liked.
Danielle, Chloe and Nick playing in the water. Chloe was afraid to be down in the water by herself so Nick and I had to carry her the whole time we were in there. The water was so clean and clear.
Here is another one of Chloe and Danielle that I liked quite a bit. In light of my picture posting struggles, I am closing for tonight. Believe me, this has taken two days. But I have learned a lot and next time the experience will go much smoother. Right? And I will ask my blogger friend (That's you, Bets!) why my text is blue and underlined!!!
I will try and post a picture. I really liked this one--perhaps it's just because I like Chloe's fat little pudgies, or maybe its the way the water is just about to rush over them. It just looks neat. I can't believe how long it takes to upload pictures! Surely there is an easier way... Hmm... Well, maybe I won't be posting as many as I was hoping to tonight. Tomorrow, I had better ask my blogging friend if there is a more time efficient way of doing this.Well, "tomorrow" has now become "today." I have had a difficult time with this picture postijng thing. Still optimistic... Yes! Mission accomplished. Here are a couple others that I liked.
Danielle, Chloe and Nick playing in the water. Chloe was afraid to be down in the water by herself so Nick and I had to carry her the whole time we were in there. The water was so clean and clear.
Here is another one of Chloe and Danielle that I liked quite a bit. In light of my picture posting struggles, I am closing for tonight. Believe me, this has taken two days. But I have learned a lot and next time the experience will go much smoother. Right? And I will ask my blogger friend (That's you, Bets!) why my text is blue and underlined!!!
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Forget the Chores!
This evening as I sit down to blog, I have that nagging feeling that you get at the end of the day when you do not accomplish all that you wanted for that day. I could have but I guess essentially, I chose not to. Exactly how does the day slip away anyway? After all, I got up early this morning and felt ambitious right from the start. But it seems that I must walk around in circles. By the time I got myself and Chloe dressed and ready for the day, and my bed made, it was already time to make lunch. And lunch seems to take forever. I prepare for four children and my husband. Plus, I have to make an extra meal for him to take to work. And of course, that meal should be at least somewhat different than noon time lunch. So that means extra preparation and cutting and cleaning up. Don't get me wrong, I am not whining, but if I could just add an extra couple hours to my day that sure would be great.
After lunch I still had laundry, and mopping, and vacuuming to do, calls to make, and those darned ceiling fans that have been begging for a dusting for two weeks now. None of it got done! But I decided to take the children swimming at my dear friend Betsy's house. Double bonus! The children and I get a brief reprieve from the heat, and I get to visit with a great lady--who, by the way, just got back from Europe!
We got home late afternoon and while Chloe was sleeping, I went for a run. I didn't really feel like it, but I have committed myself to running and getting in shape, so I went anyway. I had a great workout! Again, I ignored my chores.... But summer will be coming to an end before we know it and it is better to enjoy life while we can. I once read a poem that asked, " One hundred years from now, who will remember that your dishes did not get done?" Live life! Love it! Love your family and friends--and sometimes it is ok to forget the chores!
After lunch I still had laundry, and mopping, and vacuuming to do, calls to make, and those darned ceiling fans that have been begging for a dusting for two weeks now. None of it got done! But I decided to take the children swimming at my dear friend Betsy's house. Double bonus! The children and I get a brief reprieve from the heat, and I get to visit with a great lady--who, by the way, just got back from Europe!
We got home late afternoon and while Chloe was sleeping, I went for a run. I didn't really feel like it, but I have committed myself to running and getting in shape, so I went anyway. I had a great workout! Again, I ignored my chores.... But summer will be coming to an end before we know it and it is better to enjoy life while we can. I once read a poem that asked, " One hundred years from now, who will remember that your dishes did not get done?" Live life! Love it! Love your family and friends--and sometimes it is ok to forget the chores!
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Crazy Summer Days
Ninety degrees and rising! It is sooo hot outside. The children have been outside spraying each other with squirt guns and the hose trying to stay cool. They love it and to be honest, I enjoy watching them--even though in the back of my mind I am thinking about the expensive water bill that will result. Oh well. It's worth a few extra dollars for them to have fun. And what's money anyway?
Well, once again it has been a while since I have written, and once again much has happened. This year has been filled with sadness and we were not left out from the "sadness" category. Nick and I had been trying to conceive since last fall. We were not trying real hard, and we figured it would just happen when God felt the time was right. In the early weeks of May we learned that we were expecting and were we excited! I felt scared and apprehensive because my postpartum period was so difficult with Chloe, but I put all my faith in the Lord and just knew it would be fine. After all, He knows what He is doing and I figured He felt I was ready.
The pregnancy was uneventful. I had no morning sickness at all, and practically no fatigue--at least compared to what I had with Danielle and Chloe. I felt great! At about nine weeks of pregnancy , my doctor wanted to date the pregnancy just to make sure of the due date. She ordered an ultrasound. Nick was unable to go with me becuase he had to pick his cousin up at the airport. I wasn't concerned at all because I figured it would be fun to take Danielle. Plus we still had the 20 week sonogram to look forward to.
Imagine my shock when we could find no heartbeat. All my excitement and hope for the future was gone in just one instant. It was horrible. I then had to wait ten days to repeat the sonogram. Doctors told me that it was still possible that the fetus was still alive although the chances were not good. For a week I lived on hope, after that reality set in. Ten days after the sonogram I had surgery to terminate the pregnancy.
These were difficult days, but I trust completely in the Lord. I know He has His reasons for everything. Obviously, there was something wrong with the baby. If nothing else, it was a great reminder of how strong I am and of what an outstanding husband I have. He was right there with me and for me the entire time. What a blessing! I have two healthy girls and I am thankful for them. Am I still sad? Yes. There's no question, but I find peace in the knowledge that God is good and He is in full control.
Well, once again it has been a while since I have written, and once again much has happened. This year has been filled with sadness and we were not left out from the "sadness" category. Nick and I had been trying to conceive since last fall. We were not trying real hard, and we figured it would just happen when God felt the time was right. In the early weeks of May we learned that we were expecting and were we excited! I felt scared and apprehensive because my postpartum period was so difficult with Chloe, but I put all my faith in the Lord and just knew it would be fine. After all, He knows what He is doing and I figured He felt I was ready.
The pregnancy was uneventful. I had no morning sickness at all, and practically no fatigue--at least compared to what I had with Danielle and Chloe. I felt great! At about nine weeks of pregnancy , my doctor wanted to date the pregnancy just to make sure of the due date. She ordered an ultrasound. Nick was unable to go with me becuase he had to pick his cousin up at the airport. I wasn't concerned at all because I figured it would be fun to take Danielle. Plus we still had the 20 week sonogram to look forward to.
Imagine my shock when we could find no heartbeat. All my excitement and hope for the future was gone in just one instant. It was horrible. I then had to wait ten days to repeat the sonogram. Doctors told me that it was still possible that the fetus was still alive although the chances were not good. For a week I lived on hope, after that reality set in. Ten days after the sonogram I had surgery to terminate the pregnancy.
These were difficult days, but I trust completely in the Lord. I know He has His reasons for everything. Obviously, there was something wrong with the baby. If nothing else, it was a great reminder of how strong I am and of what an outstanding husband I have. He was right there with me and for me the entire time. What a blessing! I have two healthy girls and I am thankful for them. Am I still sad? Yes. There's no question, but I find peace in the knowledge that God is good and He is in full control.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
A Time for Healing
Exactly three weeks ago a friend and neighbor came up missing. Last Thursday he was found along the bank of French Creek. It has been a very hard and confusing three weeks for everyone involved. I have found myself feeling deep sadness one moment, and anger another. I want to deny the whole thing happened and change the outcome for his wife and four small children. But I can't.
But peace can be found in the Lord and in all the blessings that He is sending her way. The community has helped so much. Friends that she did not even know she has have shown their concern in unbelievable ways. One man wants to finish all the renovations on her home and help her complete all the things that she and her husband had dreamed of doing.
Yesterday was the viewing, and today was the funeral. I could not go because there was nobody to watch Chloe so I sit here feeling very tired and depressed. I am thinking about my dear friend and feeling hopeful for spring. Today, the hardest part will be over for her, or is it really just beginning? I am not sure, only time will tell, but with this tragedy, there will be new beginnings. New friendships and a new way of life. I plan to be right there for her good days and bad.
Yesterday, I watched her children while she and her family went to the viewing. I had eight children all together--her four, my two, and the two that I watch every day after school. It really wasn't so bad. In fact I rather enjoyed it--until the end of the day that is. It was like something out of the movies!
Chloe is potty training and so is her daughter. Ironically, they both had to go poop at the same time. I put Chloe on the downstairs toilet, and her daughter upstairs. I guess I never thought about the fact that if you leave a two-year-old alone on the toilet to go poop, bad things can happen. Well, just as Chloe was finishing up I hear Nick out in the livingroom say, "Wow! You are dirty!" We just had pizza and Nick is colorblind. He did not realize what he was looking at. I had already cleaned the pizza sauce off of her after dinner and somehow his comment registered in my mind. I put two and two together and my worst fear was realized. She was covered in poop from head to toe. The streaks on her shirt told me she tried to use it as a towel to clean off her hands...and the bathroom...well, the bathroom. EWW!!!
So I tried flushing the toilet without a plunger handy--again, what was I thinking--and the water began to rise. I yelled for Danielle to get Nick and the plunger as I am scooping the toilet water out of the bowl to avoid a flood, but to no avail. Water everywhere! Nick went downstairs to help Chloe finish and she had poop all over that toilet. He came out of that bathroom to find water pouring out of the ceiling right on to our bed. (Of course, my little gal got poop all over the extra sheets, which I didn't realize until later). Didn't he then turn around to find a pile of puke on the floor from one of the other children. My! My! My! When it rains it really pours--toilet water sometimes!
Amazingly, through the midst of all the sadness, glimmers of hope and cheer can be found. Evidence that life does go on and a time for healing has come.
But peace can be found in the Lord and in all the blessings that He is sending her way. The community has helped so much. Friends that she did not even know she has have shown their concern in unbelievable ways. One man wants to finish all the renovations on her home and help her complete all the things that she and her husband had dreamed of doing.
Yesterday was the viewing, and today was the funeral. I could not go because there was nobody to watch Chloe so I sit here feeling very tired and depressed. I am thinking about my dear friend and feeling hopeful for spring. Today, the hardest part will be over for her, or is it really just beginning? I am not sure, only time will tell, but with this tragedy, there will be new beginnings. New friendships and a new way of life. I plan to be right there for her good days and bad.
Yesterday, I watched her children while she and her family went to the viewing. I had eight children all together--her four, my two, and the two that I watch every day after school. It really wasn't so bad. In fact I rather enjoyed it--until the end of the day that is. It was like something out of the movies!
Chloe is potty training and so is her daughter. Ironically, they both had to go poop at the same time. I put Chloe on the downstairs toilet, and her daughter upstairs. I guess I never thought about the fact that if you leave a two-year-old alone on the toilet to go poop, bad things can happen. Well, just as Chloe was finishing up I hear Nick out in the livingroom say, "Wow! You are dirty!" We just had pizza and Nick is colorblind. He did not realize what he was looking at. I had already cleaned the pizza sauce off of her after dinner and somehow his comment registered in my mind. I put two and two together and my worst fear was realized. She was covered in poop from head to toe. The streaks on her shirt told me she tried to use it as a towel to clean off her hands...and the bathroom...well, the bathroom. EWW!!!
So I tried flushing the toilet without a plunger handy--again, what was I thinking--and the water began to rise. I yelled for Danielle to get Nick and the plunger as I am scooping the toilet water out of the bowl to avoid a flood, but to no avail. Water everywhere! Nick went downstairs to help Chloe finish and she had poop all over that toilet. He came out of that bathroom to find water pouring out of the ceiling right on to our bed. (Of course, my little gal got poop all over the extra sheets, which I didn't realize until later). Didn't he then turn around to find a pile of puke on the floor from one of the other children. My! My! My! When it rains it really pours--toilet water sometimes!
Amazingly, through the midst of all the sadness, glimmers of hope and cheer can be found. Evidence that life does go on and a time for healing has come.
Monday, March 06, 2006
Finding My Writing Voice
Getting back into the business of writing is much more challenging than you would think. It sounds easy. Simply sit down at your computer, and type out your opinions or ideas and you've written something. Or do your research, find the facts, and write about whatever topic strikes your fancy and you have an article. Yes, that's great and all, but there's so much more to it than that and anyone who has ever sat down to write something--anything at all realizes that it is a craft. It is rewarding and exciting when the words and punctuation come together to form a beautifully written piece--even the topic athlete's foot can be interesting if written properly. But it isn't easy. Not a single part of it, from the simple act of sitting down to the new grammar and punctuation rules, to dealing with an overabundance of information and extreme competition in the world of writing. The idea of sitting down to write can be immobilizing.
I am immobilized. I think I need to read more "how to write" books, more great pieces of literature--I need to research more. I need to research my topic--whatever that is. I need to research how grammar has changed. The use of commas, spacing, other punctuation. All that seemed so simple in high school. College grammar was an easy "A". The rules were hard and fast. But now my understanding has changed. Grammar has changed. Times are changing. Still I am not writing. Who, what, where, why, when, and how. That hasn't changed has it?
My understanding on so many things seems so shallow. That's another block I have. I fear writing because I don't think I have anything worthwhile to say. I am not a deep thinker. Politics? What's that? Am I pitiful or what? But I am an emotional being. I have at least that going for me.
The other day I was reading about successful freelancers in my Writer's Market and Peter Bwerman, a commercial writer said, "...don't waste time looking for secrets. Instead, write." Good advise. Maybe I'll stop looking for the answers and do just that. I can look for the secrets in my "spare time."
I am immobilized. I think I need to read more "how to write" books, more great pieces of literature--I need to research more. I need to research my topic--whatever that is. I need to research how grammar has changed. The use of commas, spacing, other punctuation. All that seemed so simple in high school. College grammar was an easy "A". The rules were hard and fast. But now my understanding has changed. Grammar has changed. Times are changing. Still I am not writing. Who, what, where, why, when, and how. That hasn't changed has it?
My understanding on so many things seems so shallow. That's another block I have. I fear writing because I don't think I have anything worthwhile to say. I am not a deep thinker. Politics? What's that? Am I pitiful or what? But I am an emotional being. I have at least that going for me.
The other day I was reading about successful freelancers in my Writer's Market and Peter Bwerman, a commercial writer said, "...don't waste time looking for secrets. Instead, write." Good advise. Maybe I'll stop looking for the answers and do just that. I can look for the secrets in my "spare time."
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Home Sweet Home
What a nice day! I lit some candles so when the sunshine wasn't shining, I had my own! Plus, the candles smell wonderful. I dusted, and scrubbed the stove top, and began phase one of what I will call "Cupboard Overhaul." Today I worked on the tupperware section...how does that get disorganized so quickly? We have only lived here since August!
All the other cupboards are just as bad--except, of course, the dishes cupboard that fell off the wall. That was rather funny--once we knew that Danielle was ok, that is. We have been working on home renovations since we moved in and recently Nick and a friend did some work that took away some of the cupboard stability. One evening, Danielle climbed up on the counter and used the cupboard to pull herself up so she could get a glass. She pulled the entire cupboard down off the wall--talk about brute strength! As a result, most of those dishes were broken. Well, that's ok, we didn't really like what we had. It was a great excuse to buy new. Anyway, all this to tell you about cleaning cupboards.
I worked my afternoon away and I enjoyed it. I figured that way I could work on something I enjoy this evening and not feel guilty about it.
When Nick came home we all hung out as a family. Danielle and Nick played pin ball, and I worked on my cross stitch project--ok so I tried my hand at a game, too. I want to finish my cross stitch so that I can begin crotcheting a blanket for Nick. I am excited about making him something for him to treasure. Of course, sometimes I wonder if these crafty projects are nothing more than an excuse not to write. Well, maybe, but somehow I am going to figure out how to do everything. Anyone have any ideas?
Right now Nick is making dinner. We didn't have a lot of food in the cupboards and he is always so good at making something out of nothing. Me? I'm good at making bread and other baked goodies.
Hmm...Something smells yummy. How blessed my life is. I am so happy to have a wonderful husband to make me dinner, and candles, and food to make my home smell like home. Home sweet home, that's where I am right now and I thank God for all of that.
All the other cupboards are just as bad--except, of course, the dishes cupboard that fell off the wall. That was rather funny--once we knew that Danielle was ok, that is. We have been working on home renovations since we moved in and recently Nick and a friend did some work that took away some of the cupboard stability. One evening, Danielle climbed up on the counter and used the cupboard to pull herself up so she could get a glass. She pulled the entire cupboard down off the wall--talk about brute strength! As a result, most of those dishes were broken. Well, that's ok, we didn't really like what we had. It was a great excuse to buy new. Anyway, all this to tell you about cleaning cupboards.
I worked my afternoon away and I enjoyed it. I figured that way I could work on something I enjoy this evening and not feel guilty about it.
When Nick came home we all hung out as a family. Danielle and Nick played pin ball, and I worked on my cross stitch project--ok so I tried my hand at a game, too. I want to finish my cross stitch so that I can begin crotcheting a blanket for Nick. I am excited about making him something for him to treasure. Of course, sometimes I wonder if these crafty projects are nothing more than an excuse not to write. Well, maybe, but somehow I am going to figure out how to do everything. Anyone have any ideas?
Right now Nick is making dinner. We didn't have a lot of food in the cupboards and he is always so good at making something out of nothing. Me? I'm good at making bread and other baked goodies.
Hmm...Something smells yummy. How blessed my life is. I am so happy to have a wonderful husband to make me dinner, and candles, and food to make my home smell like home. Home sweet home, that's where I am right now and I thank God for all of that.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
It's a Blogging Thing
Well, I've decided not to give up on this whole blogging thing. It really is fun, I enjoy it, and I am getting practice in as a writer. Plus, I can take a look back at my past when I am feeling nostalgic, or even if I just want to remember when certain event occurred.
Life is busy and that's my biggest excuse. It always is, you know. But from now on I will scold myself when I begin saying that. If I want to do something bad enought I should make the time. Hmm...if only I could do that literally. I'd be rich.
I took over the Worship and Production newsletter at my church this month. I have been editing and writing for it for several months now, but I am now in charge of the entire thing. I finished my first edition today. The deadline is always the first Thursday of every month. I had so much fun putting it together. It's very much like writing. You switch things here and tweak them there and before you know it you have a piece of art. It really is quite exciting and I am so thankful that I have an opportunity to serve God with my gifts in a way that is so fun and rewarding.
Today is the first day of March. I'm not sure if it came in like a lion or a lamb. It was sort of an in betweener--although we did have quite an ice storm. Several schools either closed or were on a delay. Not Cambridge though.
Well, I must go for the evening. I will try to make more time for this. I come and I go. Hey! It's a bloggin' thing, right?
Life is busy and that's my biggest excuse. It always is, you know. But from now on I will scold myself when I begin saying that. If I want to do something bad enought I should make the time. Hmm...if only I could do that literally. I'd be rich.
I took over the Worship and Production newsletter at my church this month. I have been editing and writing for it for several months now, but I am now in charge of the entire thing. I finished my first edition today. The deadline is always the first Thursday of every month. I had so much fun putting it together. It's very much like writing. You switch things here and tweak them there and before you know it you have a piece of art. It really is quite exciting and I am so thankful that I have an opportunity to serve God with my gifts in a way that is so fun and rewarding.
Today is the first day of March. I'm not sure if it came in like a lion or a lamb. It was sort of an in betweener--although we did have quite an ice storm. Several schools either closed or were on a delay. Not Cambridge though.
Well, I must go for the evening. I will try to make more time for this. I come and I go. Hey! It's a bloggin' thing, right?
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
My Inspiration
My dear friend Betsy is my inspiration to blog today! I wanted to check my last blog and see if anyone left a post, and by golly, Betsy did. And her posts are always charming and witty and make me smile. So, of course, I thought, "I should check Betsy's blog and see if she has posted recently?" I checked and she had. She posted yesterday, when I know she had many other things to do--spend all morning on the phone with me and visiting at my house, as well as edit my article for the Worhip Team Newsletter at 11:00pm. (Thanks Bets! You are a love). Furthermore, her post was about blogging when not in the mood to blog. Yikes! She really guilted me into it. But I need that, you know!
Anyway, Betsy is my inspiration in many ways, not just in blogging. For some reason, I feel particularly drawn to her lately. I have grown in so many ways since meeting her. I have known her for many years. I think Danielle was only two when we first met at the Christian and Missionary Alliance church in Cambridge Springs. I always respected her as an upright Christian woman, but did not really know her that well--just well enough to know she was special. As the years have gone by, we stayed in contact, but not on a regular basis.
Fortunately, Nick was renting a home they owned when we first began dating, and that brought us back into contact again. But it wasn't really until Chloe was born that we really began to nurture a relationship. I was anxious and she wanted to write, so a friendship blossomed. Who would have thought? Oh! and of course, I wanted to write, as well.
Which brings me to another point of inspiration. She has kept me on track with my writing. I have published many articles on the internet, begun writing for my church newsletter, and am even going to be taking over the Worhip Team Newletter at my church. Where would I be right now without Betsy? We get together once a week to encourage and inspire and hold each other accountable.
What's even more, is that she has taught me so much about what it is to be a Christian woman--not that I am always, but I sure do try. Well, anyway, Bets, I love ya! Thanks for the inspiration! Maybe I'll go check out some discount tires!
Anyway, Betsy is my inspiration in many ways, not just in blogging. For some reason, I feel particularly drawn to her lately. I have grown in so many ways since meeting her. I have known her for many years. I think Danielle was only two when we first met at the Christian and Missionary Alliance church in Cambridge Springs. I always respected her as an upright Christian woman, but did not really know her that well--just well enough to know she was special. As the years have gone by, we stayed in contact, but not on a regular basis.
Fortunately, Nick was renting a home they owned when we first began dating, and that brought us back into contact again. But it wasn't really until Chloe was born that we really began to nurture a relationship. I was anxious and she wanted to write, so a friendship blossomed. Who would have thought? Oh! and of course, I wanted to write, as well.
Which brings me to another point of inspiration. She has kept me on track with my writing. I have published many articles on the internet, begun writing for my church newsletter, and am even going to be taking over the Worhip Team Newletter at my church. Where would I be right now without Betsy? We get together once a week to encourage and inspire and hold each other accountable.
What's even more, is that she has taught me so much about what it is to be a Christian woman--not that I am always, but I sure do try. Well, anyway, Bets, I love ya! Thanks for the inspiration! Maybe I'll go check out some discount tires!
Sunday, November 13, 2005
Time Slips Away
I can't believe it has really been so long since my last blog. There are so many things going on that sometimes I don't realize how fast time really does fly.
The last few weeks have been packed full of interesting and fun events--I can't say too much for the housework, but carpe diem, right? Perhaps the most interesting thing we have done since last I wrote was take a road trip to Benezette. It is a small town a bit south of St. Marys. Nick and I went last year and had a great time. This year, Nick's, mom, dad, and brother wanted to go with us. The more the merrier, right?
What makes Benezette so unique and interesting is the fact that there are elk there. Nick tells me that over a hundred years ago elk roamed freely in these parts but were weeded out by hunters. Fairly recently, and I don't know exactly how recently, the Game Commission began reintroducing them to that area. Now there are quite a few. When driving around, all you have to do is watch for stopped cars alongside the road in order to see one.
The trip is about three hours long and it is well worth the ride this time of the year. The leaves are glorious with all their bright and colorful foliage. It truly makes me appreciate what beauty God has put in this world. Anyway, when we arrived in Benezette, we drove for a little while, all wondering whether we would see our subject, the Elk. We drove for some time and low and behold there were the cars alongside the road, and three elk standing in someone's back yard--right by their garage--right by their house! Imagine walking out of your house to see such a huge creature standing next to your car, as if to say, "Where do you think you are going?" They are rather large animals, and can be a little intimidating. But they really don't seem bothered at all by their admirerers.
We drove a little farther and saw more cars, so of course, we pulled over that time, as well. This time there were two; one relatively small, and the other gigantic! Its rack--not that I really care about such things, but this was very impressive--was huge. Now when I say huge, I mean huge. If you killed it and wanted to mount it on your wall--which I also don't particularly care about, but just to make my point--you would have to have a very big home to accomodate it. I know it would not fit anywhere in our cozy little home.
So that was our little road trip. We stopped at a gift shop there, and drove a few extra miles to Sharon, PA to eat at an Italian restaurant called Combine Brothers. They serve yummy food, in huge portions, and at very reasonable prices. I like the huge portions because everthing we have ever brought home reheats nicely and makes a great dinner the following day. It's one of my father-in-laws favorite places to eat.
Well, it's late so I am going to bed. I will try not to be a stranger. Take care!
The last few weeks have been packed full of interesting and fun events--I can't say too much for the housework, but carpe diem, right? Perhaps the most interesting thing we have done since last I wrote was take a road trip to Benezette. It is a small town a bit south of St. Marys. Nick and I went last year and had a great time. This year, Nick's, mom, dad, and brother wanted to go with us. The more the merrier, right?
What makes Benezette so unique and interesting is the fact that there are elk there. Nick tells me that over a hundred years ago elk roamed freely in these parts but were weeded out by hunters. Fairly recently, and I don't know exactly how recently, the Game Commission began reintroducing them to that area. Now there are quite a few. When driving around, all you have to do is watch for stopped cars alongside the road in order to see one.
The trip is about three hours long and it is well worth the ride this time of the year. The leaves are glorious with all their bright and colorful foliage. It truly makes me appreciate what beauty God has put in this world. Anyway, when we arrived in Benezette, we drove for a little while, all wondering whether we would see our subject, the Elk. We drove for some time and low and behold there were the cars alongside the road, and three elk standing in someone's back yard--right by their garage--right by their house! Imagine walking out of your house to see such a huge creature standing next to your car, as if to say, "Where do you think you are going?" They are rather large animals, and can be a little intimidating. But they really don't seem bothered at all by their admirerers.
We drove a little farther and saw more cars, so of course, we pulled over that time, as well. This time there were two; one relatively small, and the other gigantic! Its rack--not that I really care about such things, but this was very impressive--was huge. Now when I say huge, I mean huge. If you killed it and wanted to mount it on your wall--which I also don't particularly care about, but just to make my point--you would have to have a very big home to accomodate it. I know it would not fit anywhere in our cozy little home.
So that was our little road trip. We stopped at a gift shop there, and drove a few extra miles to Sharon, PA to eat at an Italian restaurant called Combine Brothers. They serve yummy food, in huge portions, and at very reasonable prices. I like the huge portions because everthing we have ever brought home reheats nicely and makes a great dinner the following day. It's one of my father-in-laws favorite places to eat.
Well, it's late so I am going to bed. I will try not to be a stranger. Take care!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)