Since returning to the world of blogging and freelance writing, I have been taking the time to visit and catch up with some of my favorite blogs. I have even added and visited several great new ones. I used to think that "blog surfing" was leisure activity and that this was nonproductive to my writing career. I have decided that was the wrong sort of thinking. Here are a few reasons why:
(1) Reading other writing blogs helps you learn more about your trade. Just visit Matt Keegan's The Article Writer, or Lillie Ammann's A Writer's Words, An Editor's Eye, and you will find out just how much you stand to learn from reading the blogs of other professionals. They have spent hours upon hours creating posts that will help you find success in the freelancing community. These people, and many others just like them, care about what they do and they care about your success.
(2) Reading other blogs exposes great resources-- whether its a potential job or a website to increase exposure. Michele Tune of Writing the Cyber Highway recently invited me to join ChicksWhoClick, a private network for women in media, creative arts and girls' & women's advocacy. What a great resource for meeting fellow writers and finding (as well as sharing) information to make the writing journey a little easier for others.
(3) It's a fantastic way to meet awesome and amazing people. I cannot tell you how many inspirational stories I have read on other people's blogs. Stories of overcoming abuse, beating cancer, raising children with disabilities, and fighting online internet pedophilia touch my heart and remind me that bloggers are real people who care about real life issues. What an honor to be acquainted with such people.
(4) Reading these same blogs inspires me to write more, and most importantly, to be a better woman. I read what others have gone through. I see what causes they stand for and support, and all the good they are doing in the world. Reading these blogs inspires me to use my writing gift to do the same. I want to write more, get involved in community causes, and grow as a woman and a human being.
Yes, I have decided that taking the time to visit other blogs can only enhance my writing career, and encourage the kind of growth as a human being that will make me a better writer. So don't feel guilty. There's something to learn from everybody. Take the time to visit some great blogs, and get connected with some wonderful people--I guarantee that remarkable things will come of it!
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Monday, May 19, 2008
Tuesday's Tips and Tidbits for Better Writing
The Cliche
Cliches are old phrases that once made a strong impression, but have been used so much they no longer make an impact on the reader. They come to mind easily, and seem to make writing sound more interesting. But using them too much is poor writing etiquette.
Overuse of cliches might look something like this in a story:
Billy always enjoyed getting under his mother’s skin. It was his sneaky way of cajoling her into letting him do what he wanted. He'd simply climb the walls until she would get all worked up and say, “For Pete’s sake, Billy, go over to Johnny's house to play!”
Perhaps this is an entertaining story, but the cliches are too much! If you spot one in your writing there are two things you can do: (1) Give it a new twist. An example I like is, "Halfway up the ladder of success, she found several rungs missing." (2) If you can't give it a new twist, simply replace it with a more fitting word or phrase.
So be sure to read the writing on the blog, and avoid the old cliche in your writing.
Have a wonderful day!
Cliches are old phrases that once made a strong impression, but have been used so much they no longer make an impact on the reader. They come to mind easily, and seem to make writing sound more interesting. But using them too much is poor writing etiquette.
Overuse of cliches might look something like this in a story:
Billy always enjoyed getting under his mother’s skin. It was his sneaky way of cajoling her into letting him do what he wanted. He'd simply climb the walls until she would get all worked up and say, “For Pete’s sake, Billy, go over to Johnny's house to play!”
Perhaps this is an entertaining story, but the cliches are too much! If you spot one in your writing there are two things you can do: (1) Give it a new twist. An example I like is, "Halfway up the ladder of success, she found several rungs missing." (2) If you can't give it a new twist, simply replace it with a more fitting word or phrase.
So be sure to read the writing on the blog, and avoid the old cliche in your writing.
Have a wonderful day!
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Writing Technique's and Tips
The most avid readers understand the rewards of reading something that touches our senses and flows with the beauty of nature itself. People will return again and again to a writer who knows how to connect with his readers in this manner. Good writing is stylish, and stylish writers are successful.
The exciting thing is that you can accomplish writing style by many different means. The usage of good grammar, how you apply different writing techniques, and plenty of practice all help you create your own unique voice. These are all qualities a stylish writer applies to his writing.
Every Monday I am going to post on the topic of "Stylish Writing." It may be a post about something as simple as common word usage errors, punctuation, or maybe it will be a little more complicated. Whether simple or complex, it is guaranteed to be good information to help you (and me) to become a better writer.
Deep down inside, don't we all want others to read and enjoy our writing? Hope to see you Monday!
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Excused Not to Write?
Chances are if you are reading my blog, you are a writer in some capacity. You may be a freelance writer trying to make a living, or perhaps writing is one of your favorite hobbies and you are literally aching to give it a real whirl and see what you are really made of. Regardless, of why you write, it is important to stay on track.
For me it's far too easy to let life get in the way of my writing. Please allow me to translate this last sentence in more understandable terms: I make excuses. OK, so maybe it's more like procrastination. When I sit down at my computer to write, I subconsciously find reasons not to write. First I check my email, then read articles from the various newsletters I receive, I read my favorite blogs, and one thing leads to another. By the time I'm "ready" to write, my time is up. I have to go tend to another responsibility.
So what do you do to get past this? Well, if you succumb to this same type of behavior, you may first begin by comforting yourself with this thought: Some of the most successful writers are also great procrastinators. So don't be too hard on yourself, but beware that it doesn't become destructive to your writing goals. I've tried a few ideas that might also be helpful to you.
Number one, give yourself an allotted amount of playtime to check your email, read your favorite blogs, or surf the internet. Set a timer and when it goes off, then so does the internet (unless you are using it for research or it directly pertains to your writing). This really works, I've tried it.
Set deadlines for yourself. This is very advisable when you are getting paid to write. You don't want to disappoint a client and lose a good reputation or potential work in the future. But even if you don't have to turn something in by a certain date, making yourself believe you do, helps get the job done.
Finally, try to do your writing at the same time every day. My time is in the afternoon when my children are asleep and my husband is at work. I don't have a ton of time to write at this stage in my life, so I think about what it is I want or need to accomplish and focus my mind on that goal.
God has given us a great gift and talent. As I get back into the swing of writing again, I must also remind myself that a busy life is not an excuse not to write, and procrastination is not productive. Determination and focus, will however help me meet my writing goals, and the same goes for you!
Until next time take care and stay focused!
For me it's far too easy to let life get in the way of my writing. Please allow me to translate this last sentence in more understandable terms: I make excuses. OK, so maybe it's more like procrastination. When I sit down at my computer to write, I subconsciously find reasons not to write. First I check my email, then read articles from the various newsletters I receive, I read my favorite blogs, and one thing leads to another. By the time I'm "ready" to write, my time is up. I have to go tend to another responsibility.
So what do you do to get past this? Well, if you succumb to this same type of behavior, you may first begin by comforting yourself with this thought: Some of the most successful writers are also great procrastinators. So don't be too hard on yourself, but beware that it doesn't become destructive to your writing goals. I've tried a few ideas that might also be helpful to you.
Number one, give yourself an allotted amount of playtime to check your email, read your favorite blogs, or surf the internet. Set a timer and when it goes off, then so does the internet (unless you are using it for research or it directly pertains to your writing). This really works, I've tried it.
Set deadlines for yourself. This is very advisable when you are getting paid to write. You don't want to disappoint a client and lose a good reputation or potential work in the future. But even if you don't have to turn something in by a certain date, making yourself believe you do, helps get the job done.
Finally, try to do your writing at the same time every day. My time is in the afternoon when my children are asleep and my husband is at work. I don't have a ton of time to write at this stage in my life, so I think about what it is I want or need to accomplish and focus my mind on that goal.
God has given us a great gift and talent. As I get back into the swing of writing again, I must also remind myself that a busy life is not an excuse not to write, and procrastination is not productive. Determination and focus, will however help me meet my writing goals, and the same goes for you!
Until next time take care and stay focused!
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Back to the Grind
It's definitely time--time for me to return to writing, that is. Over the last couple of weeks my desire to get back to writing has been renewed. Don't get me wrong, I have been enjoying Baby Amara very much. She is a delightful little baby and every day brings something new and cute. My favorite is the sweet gummy grins she now showers me with on a daily basis, but I digress!
Writing is a part of who I am and something that I have been passionate about since I was very young. It gives me value as a human being--other than being a wife and mother. It defines me and gives me self worth.
So how do I get back to it after taking such an extended period of time off? For me, the time off was personal. I had a baby and my mind was preoccupied with baby things, but lots of people take time off from writing for lots of different reasons. So here are four tips that may be helpful for anyone trying to get back to it.
(1) Write every day. What? I'm just getting back into it again, what do you mean write every day, you ask. Don't let this scare you. You can still ease back into it, but do something every day. A great way to do this is by journaling (which has many of its own benefits anyway). Getting yourself into the habit of writing will help you find greater success as you get more serious about it again.
(2) Look for inspiration around you. An inspired person is a motivated writer, and inspiration is literally everywhere! Perhaps it's in a favorite blog, the words of a cherished poem, or maybe it's in the wildlife that surrounds you. Find your own source of inspiration and draw from it.
(3) Set some realistic goals. For me, I want to focus on building up a client base again, so I need to think about how to do that. For example, spending a predetermined amount of time per week marketing myself will be one of my goals. Applying for X amount of jobs a week will be another. What do you desire to achieve from your writing, and how are you going to go about that are a couple questions you might want to ask yourself, then set your goals accordingly. This is a very productive suggestion for anyone--whether just starting out, or for an old pro who needs a new perspective on what he's doing.
(4) Don't be too hard on yourself. I'm going to have to try to remind myself of this one. Having a new baby in the house can be very tiring some days. I'm going to have to be honest with you, sometimes an afternoon nap will look much more tempting than spending an afternoon writing. So as long as you can maintain your focus (and if you have clients, keep your work a priority) then don't beat yourself up if you have some days that aren't real productive. Remember that probably one of the reasons you chose to be a freelance writer was for the flexibility in your schedule.
So good luck with your new or renewed endeavors, and wish me luck with mine!
Have a wonderful day!
Writing is a part of who I am and something that I have been passionate about since I was very young. It gives me value as a human being--other than being a wife and mother. It defines me and gives me self worth.
So how do I get back to it after taking such an extended period of time off? For me, the time off was personal. I had a baby and my mind was preoccupied with baby things, but lots of people take time off from writing for lots of different reasons. So here are four tips that may be helpful for anyone trying to get back to it.
(1) Write every day. What? I'm just getting back into it again, what do you mean write every day, you ask. Don't let this scare you. You can still ease back into it, but do something every day. A great way to do this is by journaling (which has many of its own benefits anyway). Getting yourself into the habit of writing will help you find greater success as you get more serious about it again.
(2) Look for inspiration around you. An inspired person is a motivated writer, and inspiration is literally everywhere! Perhaps it's in a favorite blog, the words of a cherished poem, or maybe it's in the wildlife that surrounds you. Find your own source of inspiration and draw from it.
(3) Set some realistic goals. For me, I want to focus on building up a client base again, so I need to think about how to do that. For example, spending a predetermined amount of time per week marketing myself will be one of my goals. Applying for X amount of jobs a week will be another. What do you desire to achieve from your writing, and how are you going to go about that are a couple questions you might want to ask yourself, then set your goals accordingly. This is a very productive suggestion for anyone--whether just starting out, or for an old pro who needs a new perspective on what he's doing.
(4) Don't be too hard on yourself. I'm going to have to try to remind myself of this one. Having a new baby in the house can be very tiring some days. I'm going to have to be honest with you, sometimes an afternoon nap will look much more tempting than spending an afternoon writing. So as long as you can maintain your focus (and if you have clients, keep your work a priority) then don't beat yourself up if you have some days that aren't real productive. Remember that probably one of the reasons you chose to be a freelance writer was for the flexibility in your schedule.
So good luck with your new or renewed endeavors, and wish me luck with mine!
Have a wonderful day!
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Amara Sophia
Ok. So I need to get out my little brag book of pictures! Having a baby is just too much fun not to share! Hope you all enjoy these pictures as much as I do!
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
I hope and pray that your April has been as lovely as ours has been so far. It was actually 73 degrees here yesterday--a treat to enjoy after the cold and very snowy winter we had! Yuck! I am so happy better weather is on the way for good!
Take care everyone and I will be back to posting soon--and it will be writing posts, I promise!
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
I hope and pray that your April has been as lovely as ours has been so far. It was actually 73 degrees here yesterday--a treat to enjoy after the cold and very snowy winter we had! Yuck! I am so happy better weather is on the way for good!
Take care everyone and I will be back to posting soon--and it will be writing posts, I promise!
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
It's a...GIRL!
After months of waiting and wondering, we finally delivered a beautiful healthy baby girl! Our precious little bundle of joy, Amara Sophia Vella, came to join us March 21, on Good Friday, at 6:07AM. She weighed 7 pounds 12 ounces, and was 21 inches long. As of this past Monday morning, she has already gained back more than her birth weight and was weighing in at 8 pounds 2 ounces. A reminder of just how quickly babies grow. As my friend Betsy says, "Babies don't keep!"
So far little Amara has been a complete joy! She sleeps for three hour stretches at night, and is pretty content during the day -- although she does enjoy being held and snuggled. Of course, I have no problem with that because since she is our last baby I plan to hold and snuggle her as much as possible!
So there you have it, the latest edition to our family, and the new light of our lives! Talk to you soon!
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Important Matters
Hello to all, and thank you for all of your kind words and support throughout the last month. I am now eight months pregnant and still feeling pretty good - although I am feeling more and more eager to deliver this baby. I wouldn't wish it too soon, though. Despite all the discomforts I am now experiencing, every moment will be well worth the healthy beautiful baby we get to hold in the end.
I continue to do some writing - a few press releases and some articles here and there. I have found that at this stage, I am enjoying the slower writing pace. It gives me time to prepare for the baby, but yet keeps me writing here and there, which also helps to pass the time.
But what I want to write about right now, I think is so much more important than how I am feeling, or what I am doing with my time until baby comes. I want to write about Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC).
My good friend, Betsy, has a blog. Perhaps some of you have checked it out, maybe not. Regardless of that, I have found a blog through hers that has moved me to tears. The blog is called Toddler Planet. It is about one woman's struggle with Inflammatory Breast Cancer. I have visited Susan's site from time to time, and always leave inspired - inspired by her strength, courage, determination, and her goal to inform others of what IBC is and how to detect it.
Inflammatory Breast Cancer is not the typical breast cancer that we, as women, get educated about at our yearly gynecological visits (if you don't get a yearly exam, then you should seriously make the time to do so!). IBC is the most aggressive form of breast cancer there is and it is not detectable by a mammogram. IBC presents as sheets of cancer (or nests, as doctors refer to it)rather than lumps. What's worse is that doctors often mistake it for bug bites, or infections and try treating it with antibiotics. It is so aggressive that early detection is important for successful treatments. IBC knows no age boundaries. You can be a victim at 16 or at 76.
Here are a couple links that provide wonderful information about what it is, and how to detect it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PEP5zY9rRao&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llBNfFaT0mw&feature=related
I am glad I stumbled upon Susan's site because I had never even heard of this condition, which is also known as "The Silent Killer." This lack of information seems to be the recurrent theme of all the victims who have had and are suffering from this disease. If you are reading this post please take a moment to view the videos I linked to. Women, inform yourselves and girlfriends. Men, inform your wives, mothers, and all the women you care about. Maybe you will save a life. Maybe it will be your own.
Hey, and if you have a spare moment, and are in need of some inspiration, stop by Toddler Planet and see what an amazing woman Susan is!
I continue to do some writing - a few press releases and some articles here and there. I have found that at this stage, I am enjoying the slower writing pace. It gives me time to prepare for the baby, but yet keeps me writing here and there, which also helps to pass the time.
But what I want to write about right now, I think is so much more important than how I am feeling, or what I am doing with my time until baby comes. I want to write about Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC).
My good friend, Betsy, has a blog. Perhaps some of you have checked it out, maybe not. Regardless of that, I have found a blog through hers that has moved me to tears. The blog is called Toddler Planet. It is about one woman's struggle with Inflammatory Breast Cancer. I have visited Susan's site from time to time, and always leave inspired - inspired by her strength, courage, determination, and her goal to inform others of what IBC is and how to detect it.
Inflammatory Breast Cancer is not the typical breast cancer that we, as women, get educated about at our yearly gynecological visits (if you don't get a yearly exam, then you should seriously make the time to do so!). IBC is the most aggressive form of breast cancer there is and it is not detectable by a mammogram. IBC presents as sheets of cancer (or nests, as doctors refer to it)rather than lumps. What's worse is that doctors often mistake it for bug bites, or infections and try treating it with antibiotics. It is so aggressive that early detection is important for successful treatments. IBC knows no age boundaries. You can be a victim at 16 or at 76.
Here are a couple links that provide wonderful information about what it is, and how to detect it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PEP5zY9rRao&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llBNfFaT0mw&feature=related
I am glad I stumbled upon Susan's site because I had never even heard of this condition, which is also known as "The Silent Killer." This lack of information seems to be the recurrent theme of all the victims who have had and are suffering from this disease. If you are reading this post please take a moment to view the videos I linked to. Women, inform yourselves and girlfriends. Men, inform your wives, mothers, and all the women you care about. Maybe you will save a life. Maybe it will be your own.
Hey, and if you have a spare moment, and are in need of some inspiration, stop by Toddler Planet and see what an amazing woman Susan is!
Friday, December 14, 2007
Seven Months Pregnant
Well, here I am seven months pregnant. I cannot tell a lie though, these were taken three weeks ago! The Christmas decorations have been taken down, and I have done some growing since then - which is easy to do even when you are not pregnant during the holidays! I laugh though, I'm not worried about pounds gained right now. I am more concerned with growing a healthy baby.
Some creative avenues I have been involved in (other than making a baby) are baking, sewing, cross stitch, and knitting. More leisurely activities have been reading, watching movies with my girls, and even playing out in the snow with them. In fact, we even built a snowman today (an activity I haven't participated in since childhood). What fun! We were downright silly, and had so much fun - I literally laughed until I cried! Making memories is a blast!
I have truly been enjoying the nesting phase of my pregnancy, but even to my own surprise, I haven't entirely given up my writing. I am still doing occasional press release projects, editing, and writing for some clients. They have been so good to me and I just can't seem to completely give up this element of my life.
My New Year's writing goals are to do some more creative writing and work on projects that would bring me more personal satisfaction. How about you? What are you working on now, and in what ways would your writing bring you the most joy in the coming year?
I miss you all, and will post again soon!
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Confessions of a Write at Home Mom
Ok, I have some confessions to make:
(1) I am having a hard time focusing on my writing blog. (As if you hadn't noticed!) I get on these kicks where I'm real inspired for a time, possibly because I feel as though I better get writing. After all, it won't be long before baby is here and I will either be too elated about our new baby, or too exhausted from sleepless nights to focus on writing.
(2) I hate letting my blogging friends down. Every day I literally feel guilty because I am not blogging. I see many of you continue to come to my blog to see if I have posted anything lately and I have not.
(3) I am way too preoccupied with being six months pregnant, and anticipating the arrival of my baby. The only "research" I want to do right now is what changes are occurring with my little baby. Can he open his eyes yet, is she at the point yet where she can hear voices outside the womb? What is this baby anyway, a boy or a girl? Will she look like my husband, as little Chloe does, or will she carry any of my traits? Those are the questions I want to know about right now.
(4) I want to do other things. I want to bake breads and cookies to give away to neighbors, to put smiles on the faces of loved ones. Believe it or not, I even want to clean. I want to scrapbook, and write out Christmas cards. I want to paint and express myself in different exciting and creative ways for a little while.
(5) Most importantly, I want to spend precious moments with my husband and daughters before this baby comes. I want to soak in every second because our lives will change when baby arrives. The change will be wonderful and amazing, but it's change none the less, and I feel this need to spend as much time with them as I can - enjoying them, preparing them.
There seems to be a theme here and it starts with "I." I am feeling selfish, but this is my last pregnancy. I do not wish to have more children so being pregnant is particularly special this time. Never again will I feel the miracle of a child growing inside of me. This is the last time I will experience those precious kicks - even the ones that hurt - or the rhythmic sensation of my baby having the hiccups.
Of course, after baby arrives it will be the "last" first smile, first step, first word. This will be the last time I ever nurse a baby. All these moments are precious and they are fleeting. Selfishly, I want to enjoy them all, every single solitary moment. If I don't, I know I will regret it. After all, I am blessed to be able to stay home with my children. There is no excuse for me to not savor it all.
Final confession: I am releasing myself from blogging. I am not abandoning my blog totally right now, but I may not write about writing. Maybe instead I will bore you with how my pregnancy is going, or how much scrap booking I have gotten done. I don't know.
Anyway, I do not know you, but I love you all. Every single one of you has encouraged me in some wonderful and amazing way and you have all helped me to know that some day, when the time is right in my life, writing will be more than a dream. It will be an achievable reality. You are all proof of that. I thank you for that, and hope you won't be too disappointed as I change course in my life for a little while.
I will see you at your blogs, and hopefully here once in a while too! Take care!
(1) I am having a hard time focusing on my writing blog. (As if you hadn't noticed!) I get on these kicks where I'm real inspired for a time, possibly because I feel as though I better get writing. After all, it won't be long before baby is here and I will either be too elated about our new baby, or too exhausted from sleepless nights to focus on writing.
(2) I hate letting my blogging friends down. Every day I literally feel guilty because I am not blogging. I see many of you continue to come to my blog to see if I have posted anything lately and I have not.
(3) I am way too preoccupied with being six months pregnant, and anticipating the arrival of my baby. The only "research" I want to do right now is what changes are occurring with my little baby. Can he open his eyes yet, is she at the point yet where she can hear voices outside the womb? What is this baby anyway, a boy or a girl? Will she look like my husband, as little Chloe does, or will she carry any of my traits? Those are the questions I want to know about right now.
(4) I want to do other things. I want to bake breads and cookies to give away to neighbors, to put smiles on the faces of loved ones. Believe it or not, I even want to clean. I want to scrapbook, and write out Christmas cards. I want to paint and express myself in different exciting and creative ways for a little while.
(5) Most importantly, I want to spend precious moments with my husband and daughters before this baby comes. I want to soak in every second because our lives will change when baby arrives. The change will be wonderful and amazing, but it's change none the less, and I feel this need to spend as much time with them as I can - enjoying them, preparing them.
There seems to be a theme here and it starts with "I." I am feeling selfish, but this is my last pregnancy. I do not wish to have more children so being pregnant is particularly special this time. Never again will I feel the miracle of a child growing inside of me. This is the last time I will experience those precious kicks - even the ones that hurt - or the rhythmic sensation of my baby having the hiccups.
Of course, after baby arrives it will be the "last" first smile, first step, first word. This will be the last time I ever nurse a baby. All these moments are precious and they are fleeting. Selfishly, I want to enjoy them all, every single solitary moment. If I don't, I know I will regret it. After all, I am blessed to be able to stay home with my children. There is no excuse for me to not savor it all.
Final confession: I am releasing myself from blogging. I am not abandoning my blog totally right now, but I may not write about writing. Maybe instead I will bore you with how my pregnancy is going, or how much scrap booking I have gotten done. I don't know.
Anyway, I do not know you, but I love you all. Every single one of you has encouraged me in some wonderful and amazing way and you have all helped me to know that some day, when the time is right in my life, writing will be more than a dream. It will be an achievable reality. You are all proof of that. I thank you for that, and hope you won't be too disappointed as I change course in my life for a little while.
I will see you at your blogs, and hopefully here once in a while too! Take care!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Happy Thanksgiving!
As a child, one of my fondest memories was of waking up at the crack of dawn only to smell the delightful scent of turkey raosting in the oven! My brother and I rarely ate breakfast. Instead of filling our minds with thoughts of all the wonderful food we would stuff our bellies with at noon - mashed potatoes, corn, homemeade rolls and all the traditional foods that we looked forward to - we distracted our thoughts of hunger by watching the Macy's Day Parade, and sneaking little tidbits of food from the counters.
This year, I get to have Thanksgiving at my house. My husband's family will come and there will be a house full of cheerful laughter and conversation, and not to forget the satisfied grunts and lip smacking that go along with a hearty meal! I will carry on my tradition of making my "famous homemade rolls" and a whole bunch of other very yummy goodies. It will be fun - busy, but fun!
I hope you all get to spend your Thanksgiving carrying on the traditions that make you the happiest, and most of all, I hope that you have as much to be thankful for as I do!
Have a very Blessed Thanksgiving!
This year, I get to have Thanksgiving at my house. My husband's family will come and there will be a house full of cheerful laughter and conversation, and not to forget the satisfied grunts and lip smacking that go along with a hearty meal! I will carry on my tradition of making my "famous homemade rolls" and a whole bunch of other very yummy goodies. It will be fun - busy, but fun!
I hope you all get to spend your Thanksgiving carrying on the traditions that make you the happiest, and most of all, I hope that you have as much to be thankful for as I do!
Have a very Blessed Thanksgiving!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Part I: Uncovering Your Niche in Research
Research - it's one of the most important elements involved in writing, but not one discussed very often. Perhaps because for some, research is an uncomfortable topic - often involving doing things that might take you out of your comfort zone. But it's important, and unless we are authorities on all the topics we write about - which is highly unlikely - it is most always necessary.
I am going to do a series of posts about this very subject because really, there is so much to say about it. My series will explore the different sources of research there are out there, and will delve more in depth into how to to maximize your results from each source I cover.
If you think, "Well, I am writing a...this does not apply to me," then think again. Business writing, article writing, magazine writing, book writing, almost every kind of writing I can think of requires at least some element of research. Even essay writing can be enhanced by it.
Research is involved in business writing because it is necessary to know about the business before you can write about it - demographic info, relevant statistics, or even research into what your writing client wants you do do for him.
Article and magazine writing both require research. If you have a rich understanding (which, unless you have first-hand experience, can only be obtained by doing thorough research) your writing will reap the rewards. You need to understand a topic before you can write about it. Trips to the library, surfing the internet and interviews will provide all the information you need.
Book writing is the same, just more involved. You cannot possibly write a great novel set in the Civil War era, without battling through the important dates, political happenings, and battles and victories of that time.
Even if you are only thinking about writing - maybe submitting to a particular magazine - you still need to research your market. Seasoned writers know how important this is. You cannot submit to a magazine - or even website - you've never read. What sorts of things they publish (essays, poetry, fiction, features), the length, topics are all important. If a magazine doesn't publish poetry, they won't publish yours. You, in turn, are going to suffer unnecessary rejection.
Good, thorough research makes successful writing. Here are a few reasons why:
(1) It helps us get our facts straight
(2) We glean important statistical information
(3) It adds substance
(4) It gives us that all important writer credibility
(5) It adds interest
(6) It creates believability
There are lots of reasons to research! And if you haven't already done it yourself, don't let it intimidate you. It is fun, educational, and moves you out of your comfort zone - which means growth for you and your writing.
I hope to see you back for my next post on research. It will include the different sources of research you can lean upon to give your writing that extra-special something!
Until then, have a wonderful day!
I am going to do a series of posts about this very subject because really, there is so much to say about it. My series will explore the different sources of research there are out there, and will delve more in depth into how to to maximize your results from each source I cover.
If you think, "Well, I am writing a...this does not apply to me," then think again. Business writing, article writing, magazine writing, book writing, almost every kind of writing I can think of requires at least some element of research. Even essay writing can be enhanced by it.
Research is involved in business writing because it is necessary to know about the business before you can write about it - demographic info, relevant statistics, or even research into what your writing client wants you do do for him.
Article and magazine writing both require research. If you have a rich understanding (which, unless you have first-hand experience, can only be obtained by doing thorough research) your writing will reap the rewards. You need to understand a topic before you can write about it. Trips to the library, surfing the internet and interviews will provide all the information you need.
Book writing is the same, just more involved. You cannot possibly write a great novel set in the Civil War era, without battling through the important dates, political happenings, and battles and victories of that time.
Even if you are only thinking about writing - maybe submitting to a particular magazine - you still need to research your market. Seasoned writers know how important this is. You cannot submit to a magazine - or even website - you've never read. What sorts of things they publish (essays, poetry, fiction, features), the length, topics are all important. If a magazine doesn't publish poetry, they won't publish yours. You, in turn, are going to suffer unnecessary rejection.
Good, thorough research makes successful writing. Here are a few reasons why:
(1) It helps us get our facts straight
(2) We glean important statistical information
(3) It adds substance
(4) It gives us that all important writer credibility
(5) It adds interest
(6) It creates believability
There are lots of reasons to research! And if you haven't already done it yourself, don't let it intimidate you. It is fun, educational, and moves you out of your comfort zone - which means growth for you and your writing.
I hope to see you back for my next post on research. It will include the different sources of research you can lean upon to give your writing that extra-special something!
Until then, have a wonderful day!
News Release Distribution
I found this review on news release distributors - both paid and free. I thought it may be useful to anyone looking to learn about distribution options.
Review of Online News Release Distributors
Review of Online News Release Distributors
Friday, November 09, 2007
I have PageRank!
Oh! I have PageRank! I can hardly believe it! I know it sounds silly, but I have been watching my blog for the last six months and for some reason, my PageRank has been nothing but a filled in bar of grayness!
I researched this matter by myself a few times but came up with no answers. I even consulted Matt Keegan of The Article Writer who is a wealth of information when it comes to stuff like this. I tried his suggestions and kept coming to dead ends. In fact, I thought maybe my blog was under a ban for some unknown reason. I gave up, dejected with the idea that my blog would be banned forever. Now I have a PageRank of 3/10.
So forgive me for my maybe overly enthusiastic excitement, but I am thrilled that I no longer have to look at other people's blogs, see their pagerank and feel sorry for myself (LOL). Yippee! Thank you Google! Most importantly, thank you to those of you who have in any way contributed to my newfound status!
Have a great weekend!
I researched this matter by myself a few times but came up with no answers. I even consulted Matt Keegan of The Article Writer who is a wealth of information when it comes to stuff like this. I tried his suggestions and kept coming to dead ends. In fact, I thought maybe my blog was under a ban for some unknown reason. I gave up, dejected with the idea that my blog would be banned forever. Now I have a PageRank of 3/10.
So forgive me for my maybe overly enthusiastic excitement, but I am thrilled that I no longer have to look at other people's blogs, see their pagerank and feel sorry for myself (LOL). Yippee! Thank you Google! Most importantly, thank you to those of you who have in any way contributed to my newfound status!
Have a great weekend!
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Just be Yourself!
Anyone who writes as part of their job or even for work knows that it is a creative process. It took me a long time to figure this out. I always thought that in order for you to be a "creative" writer, you had to write poetry, or short stories, or books.
I have always longed to write something "creative" like that, but for some reason, have never been able to. Oh, I have submitted short stories to contests, but I always seem to go back to my safe spot in writing - researched articles, press releases, more business related writing. I truly admire those who write in the way I wish I could.
What I have learned is that even business writing is "creative." You still have to craft words together in a way that makes them both flow, make sense, and most importantly encourages your readers to keep on reading - or hiring you for the next project. And even though there are unique sets of rules to abide by, like in writing press releases, for example, you still have the ability to use your own voice to make it uniquely yours.
I have always been told that my writing is inspirational, but yet calming. I am so flattered by that because I have also been told that I have a calming personality - I am soothing in my parenting, my relationships, as well as in all situations I find myself in. I guess I am a peacemaker. I don't argue or fight with my husband or children. We might have disagreements, but I always remain calm and never get worked up. I just state the facts from my point of view!
Being told my writing is calming, inspirational, or encouraging makes me feel wonderful because that is who I am and I know my true voice is coming out on the keyboard. Does "calm" translate into boring? Hmm...maybe it does, but I can work on that, and I will! And as for those short stories, the day will come when I tackle more too.
In the meantime, what makes your writing uniquely you?
Do you love a scary movie, and therefore enjoy writing thriller fiction? Do you long for the nostalgic, and write moving poetry? Perhaps, like me, there is a quality in your personality that comes out in your writing. Feel free to share what defines your writing most!
Have a wonderful day!
I have always longed to write something "creative" like that, but for some reason, have never been able to. Oh, I have submitted short stories to contests, but I always seem to go back to my safe spot in writing - researched articles, press releases, more business related writing. I truly admire those who write in the way I wish I could.
What I have learned is that even business writing is "creative." You still have to craft words together in a way that makes them both flow, make sense, and most importantly encourages your readers to keep on reading - or hiring you for the next project. And even though there are unique sets of rules to abide by, like in writing press releases, for example, you still have the ability to use your own voice to make it uniquely yours.
I have always been told that my writing is inspirational, but yet calming. I am so flattered by that because I have also been told that I have a calming personality - I am soothing in my parenting, my relationships, as well as in all situations I find myself in. I guess I am a peacemaker. I don't argue or fight with my husband or children. We might have disagreements, but I always remain calm and never get worked up. I just state the facts from my point of view!
Being told my writing is calming, inspirational, or encouraging makes me feel wonderful because that is who I am and I know my true voice is coming out on the keyboard. Does "calm" translate into boring? Hmm...maybe it does, but I can work on that, and I will! And as for those short stories, the day will come when I tackle more too.
In the meantime, what makes your writing uniquely you?
Do you love a scary movie, and therefore enjoy writing thriller fiction? Do you long for the nostalgic, and write moving poetry? Perhaps, like me, there is a quality in your personality that comes out in your writing. Feel free to share what defines your writing most!
Have a wonderful day!
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Updates and Apologies
To begin with, let me offer my apologies to you. I know I have been gone for a while - too long, I am afraid - and to be honest with you, I have no excuse at all. Sometimes, when I'm faced with the question, "Do I take an afternoon nap, or do I blog," the napping part just wins me over. So sorry about that, it goes with the pregnancy territory. Making a baby is as taxing as climbing a mountain, so I've read.
I am now 19 weeks into my pregnancy. That means I am almost half way there already! I can't believe how quickly time is passing. I have felt great, and even my hunger isn't as bad as it was earlier on - good thing because otherwise I would be as big as a house by the end of nine months. As it is, I have only gained about nine pounds, and am right on target with weight gain.
I began feeling baby move about two weeks ago. Movement is still sporadic - some days baby moves a lot, and other days I don't feel any movement at all. I just want a good kick here and there to let me know everything is ok.
The best part - the day (other than the arrival of the baby itself) I have been waiting for since finding out I was pregnant - is that today I had my ultrasound. The sonographer was wonderful. She really took her time with us. She showed us all the parts (except the special part that keeps it a surprise!). She took extra time to just let us watch that little baby. We watched baby opening and closing his mouth, swallowing, waving, kicking, and doing all sorts of precious things. We brought home several pictures, but the best part - the very best part - is that our baby is healthy. After my last pregnancy, I was so scared there would be something wrong. But, no. God is good. So far everything is great, and our little baby, who is about ten inches long, and as many ounces, is completely healthy. I am so happy!
So that's my most important update for now. As for my writing, it is not as my blog has been. I have been writing plenty. Not only have I been busy with various articles, but I have also been writing lots of press releases. It's been wonderful! Yet another blessing in my life!
I hope and pray all is going well with you! For now, I am going to pay a visit to all of my favorite blogs, and I will try to be back soon!
Have a wonderful day!
I am now 19 weeks into my pregnancy. That means I am almost half way there already! I can't believe how quickly time is passing. I have felt great, and even my hunger isn't as bad as it was earlier on - good thing because otherwise I would be as big as a house by the end of nine months. As it is, I have only gained about nine pounds, and am right on target with weight gain.
I began feeling baby move about two weeks ago. Movement is still sporadic - some days baby moves a lot, and other days I don't feel any movement at all. I just want a good kick here and there to let me know everything is ok.
The best part - the day (other than the arrival of the baby itself) I have been waiting for since finding out I was pregnant - is that today I had my ultrasound. The sonographer was wonderful. She really took her time with us. She showed us all the parts (except the special part that keeps it a surprise!). She took extra time to just let us watch that little baby. We watched baby opening and closing his mouth, swallowing, waving, kicking, and doing all sorts of precious things. We brought home several pictures, but the best part - the very best part - is that our baby is healthy. After my last pregnancy, I was so scared there would be something wrong. But, no. God is good. So far everything is great, and our little baby, who is about ten inches long, and as many ounces, is completely healthy. I am so happy!
So that's my most important update for now. As for my writing, it is not as my blog has been. I have been writing plenty. Not only have I been busy with various articles, but I have also been writing lots of press releases. It's been wonderful! Yet another blessing in my life!
I hope and pray all is going well with you! For now, I am going to pay a visit to all of my favorite blogs, and I will try to be back soon!
Have a wonderful day!
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
The Modern Day Press Release
It took me four years of higher education to obtain my degree in English writing--not so long when considering the bigger life picture. During that time, I expect I was taught a good deal of the latest trends in writing and journalism. I graduated something like four years ago, and have to say that it never fails to amaze me how much has changed since I received that degree. Four years just doesn't seem that long ago for so much change.
When it comes to writing, the press release is no exception to all this change. What makes the modern day press release look so different? The answer is simple: the internet. Today's small businesses have the opportunity to gain the kind of exposure that larger corporations could only attain before the "world wide web" came about. It's this kind of exposure that makes the online press release different than the traditional.
Some things still remain the same between the two. For example, all the points I bring up in the Elements of a Good Press Release remain the same. It's not advertising, it should be adequately proofread, and a journalistic style of writing should be implemented.
So what's so different? Well, the main difference can be summed up with two words in particular: keyword optimization. An online press release is meant to increase rankings and drive traffic to your site. As with any SEO article, you need to consider which words people would most likely use to find your web site, always making sure that they appropriately describe the service, or product you are offering on your site. For example, if your press release claims you write press releases as a service, but all you actually do is edit, then don't use "write press release" as a key phrase. I guess I speak the obvious here, but nobody wants to find exactly the service they are looking for only to learn they have been tricked.
Another great difference is the inclusion of live links. You can include links in a traditional press release, but the link's worthless unless you go to your computer turn it on and manually insert it in your search engine - not a big deal or major amount of trouble, but many people would rather not be bothered. Here you can effortlessly click your way to the site of interest to learn more about the topic at hand. How convenient is that!
The most recent change in press releases which I'm sure will become even more popular in the near future is the use of podcasts with your press release. This is simply a short audio segment that highlights the most important part of the release. If done informatively, promptly, and professionally enough this new tool is sure to help you make the most of your press release.
The traditional press release is surely not extinct with the dinosaurs, nor will it ever be an endangered species as long as we have traditional forms of media, but the online press release is definitely a creature of its own. Thus it should be treated as such. Be sure to do your homework and know the differences.
This concludes my series on the press release. I hope you enjoyed it, and most of all took something useful with you. Until next time, have a wonderful day!
When it comes to writing, the press release is no exception to all this change. What makes the modern day press release look so different? The answer is simple: the internet. Today's small businesses have the opportunity to gain the kind of exposure that larger corporations could only attain before the "world wide web" came about. It's this kind of exposure that makes the online press release different than the traditional.
Some things still remain the same between the two. For example, all the points I bring up in the Elements of a Good Press Release remain the same. It's not advertising, it should be adequately proofread, and a journalistic style of writing should be implemented.
So what's so different? Well, the main difference can be summed up with two words in particular: keyword optimization. An online press release is meant to increase rankings and drive traffic to your site. As with any SEO article, you need to consider which words people would most likely use to find your web site, always making sure that they appropriately describe the service, or product you are offering on your site. For example, if your press release claims you write press releases as a service, but all you actually do is edit, then don't use "write press release" as a key phrase. I guess I speak the obvious here, but nobody wants to find exactly the service they are looking for only to learn they have been tricked.
Another great difference is the inclusion of live links. You can include links in a traditional press release, but the link's worthless unless you go to your computer turn it on and manually insert it in your search engine - not a big deal or major amount of trouble, but many people would rather not be bothered. Here you can effortlessly click your way to the site of interest to learn more about the topic at hand. How convenient is that!
The most recent change in press releases which I'm sure will become even more popular in the near future is the use of podcasts with your press release. This is simply a short audio segment that highlights the most important part of the release. If done informatively, promptly, and professionally enough this new tool is sure to help you make the most of your press release.
The traditional press release is surely not extinct with the dinosaurs, nor will it ever be an endangered species as long as we have traditional forms of media, but the online press release is definitely a creature of its own. Thus it should be treated as such. Be sure to do your homework and know the differences.
This concludes my series on the press release. I hope you enjoyed it, and most of all took something useful with you. Until next time, have a wonderful day!
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Elements of a Good Press Release
Merely writing a press release does not guarantee that an editor will distribute it. As you go about crafting your press release, there are some important stylistic points to keep in mind if you don't want your press release to be rejected.
(1) I mentioned this the other day, but it bares repeating again: It is not an advertisement. Do not tell your readers what to do: "You should buy this product because..." or "You must go visit the new..." It is meant to convey important information relevant to the business, organization, or person it represents. Ask yourself if your topic is new, interesting, unusual, relevant, and important in some way.
(2) If you want someone to follow up on your press release after it has been distributed be sure to cover your bases. List a reliable contact person, their phone number, and email address. What good will a contact person be if he (a) is unfamiliar with the subject, or (b) is not around to be called?
(3) Be considerate and send the release on time. Give editors the time they need to distribute it - preferably at least a day prior to when you would like it released. Include the release date on the press release itself. Remember that these people are busy so respect them by not waiting until the last minute.
(4) Understand clearly the media's definition of news. Answer the who, what, where, why, when, and how within the body. Be clear, concise, and factual with your information. Sentence length should be about 20 words, avoid the passive, and write short paragraphs.
(5) Include a short headline to summarize the contents of the release.
(6) Avoid puffery like, "World renowned artist comes..." If an artist is world renowned it doesn't need to be stated. Your reader will know. Words like famous, prominent, wonderful etc should not be used.
(7) Proofread, proofread, proofread. This cannot be stressed enough. Nobody will take you seriously if you don't take the time to make sure it is error free.
There's a lot to remember when crafting your news release, but these are a few important points. Hope they help get yours distributed!
Have a great day!
(1) I mentioned this the other day, but it bares repeating again: It is not an advertisement. Do not tell your readers what to do: "You should buy this product because..." or "You must go visit the new..." It is meant to convey important information relevant to the business, organization, or person it represents. Ask yourself if your topic is new, interesting, unusual, relevant, and important in some way.
(2) If you want someone to follow up on your press release after it has been distributed be sure to cover your bases. List a reliable contact person, their phone number, and email address. What good will a contact person be if he (a) is unfamiliar with the subject, or (b) is not around to be called?
(3) Be considerate and send the release on time. Give editors the time they need to distribute it - preferably at least a day prior to when you would like it released. Include the release date on the press release itself. Remember that these people are busy so respect them by not waiting until the last minute.
(4) Understand clearly the media's definition of news. Answer the who, what, where, why, when, and how within the body. Be clear, concise, and factual with your information. Sentence length should be about 20 words, avoid the passive, and write short paragraphs.
(5) Include a short headline to summarize the contents of the release.
(6) Avoid puffery like, "World renowned artist comes..." If an artist is world renowned it doesn't need to be stated. Your reader will know. Words like famous, prominent, wonderful etc should not be used.
(7) Proofread, proofread, proofread. This cannot be stressed enough. Nobody will take you seriously if you don't take the time to make sure it is error free.
There's a lot to remember when crafting your news release, but these are a few important points. Hope they help get yours distributed!
Have a great day!
What is a Press Release?
Journalism 101
Because I have suddenly become rather busy writing press releases, I thought it might be fun to focus my blog on that subject for a few days. There seems to be no better place to begin than with the simple question, "What is a press release?"
A press release, or news release, is a written or recorded communication directed at members of the news media to announce something newsworthy. It can be mailed, faxed, or sent via internet communications to newspaper editors, magazines, radio and television stations/networks, or even distributed online.
Despite what some may think, a press release is not advertising. It may have the secondary benefit of drawing more business to a company or increasing sales of a product or service, but it is meant only to announce something with true news value, and perhaps increase exposure for the company.
Once the release is received by the chosen form of media, the editor decides whether or not it is newsworthy enough to run and if they have the space to run it in. If they feel it is, there is often a specified date on which the company would like it distributed. For example, time sensitive information, such as an announcement of a conference with related times and dates, might have "For Immediate Release" written to indicate it needs to be announced right away. Conversely, it may be written days, weeks, or even months ahead of the event and distributed on a very specific date.
It absolutely should not be boring. It should be a nicely crafted article that informs the reader of something. And as with any piece of writing, it should always have a headline that grabs your attention - something with a flare that makes the reader keep reading, an important task with all the written competition available these days. You want your reader to take some valuable information away with him.
So there you have it, a brief introduction to what a press release is. My next entry will focus on the stylistic elements of a good press release. Hope to see you back!
Have a wonderful day!
Thursday, September 13, 2007
A Brand New Season
It's hard to believe that I am almost through my first trimester of pregnancy! These last several weeks have been filled with very little nausea, plenty of fatigue, and an absolutely voracious appetite! Now as I get ready to move into the next phase of my pregnancy, I am happy to say the nausea is nearly non-existent, the fatigue is lessoning, and the hunger (I guess I can't have it all) is ever present and growing! Just like baby! What more could I ask for?
Danielle is back to school and adjusting well to seventh grade, and Chloe has begun her fall line up, including a gym class for tots, dance, and tumbling. We are preparing for fall weather and have even had a small taste of it the last few days. I love fall. I love to watch the changes. Brilliant leaves appear as God's very own color palette here on earth. The sight is amazing, the smell is nostalgic, and the crunch under my feet is nothing less than fun! On cold days, I love to savor the scent of a spicy candle and enjoy the warm glow in the absence of the sun.
Life is good, isn't it? We obediently ride along with the cycles of life. We learn to love the predictable way that things occur-- even to look forward to the changes. I guess we really have no choice, but life is still good, and the coming of the new season makes me want to write even more.
Good thing, because I have all the sudden become inundated with lots of writing work. I have two articles to write, five press releases, and one newsletter to write for, edit, and assemble, all within the next week. So I will be busy. But I must say that in between moments of writing, and raising my family, I will not forget to take the time to savor the the fall season and all the beautiful things changing in my life! I hope you will do the same in yours!
Have a wonderful day!
Danielle is back to school and adjusting well to seventh grade, and Chloe has begun her fall line up, including a gym class for tots, dance, and tumbling. We are preparing for fall weather and have even had a small taste of it the last few days. I love fall. I love to watch the changes. Brilliant leaves appear as God's very own color palette here on earth. The sight is amazing, the smell is nostalgic, and the crunch under my feet is nothing less than fun! On cold days, I love to savor the scent of a spicy candle and enjoy the warm glow in the absence of the sun.
Life is good, isn't it? We obediently ride along with the cycles of life. We learn to love the predictable way that things occur-- even to look forward to the changes. I guess we really have no choice, but life is still good, and the coming of the new season makes me want to write even more.
Good thing, because I have all the sudden become inundated with lots of writing work. I have two articles to write, five press releases, and one newsletter to write for, edit, and assemble, all within the next week. So I will be busy. But I must say that in between moments of writing, and raising my family, I will not forget to take the time to savor the the fall season and all the beautiful things changing in my life! I hope you will do the same in yours!
Have a wonderful day!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)