tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8302145342910797942024-03-13T21:40:28.968-07:00Queen City Writers GroupAnytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-6844012765487451782015-01-11T10:25:00.000-08:002015-01-11T10:25:34.561-08:00Great News!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Queen City Writers Group is now "The Charlotte Writing Academy". The move allows us to bring better opportunities for all writers. To see what great things we are doing check us out: <a href="http://www.thecharlottewritingacademy.org/">www.thecharlottewritingacademy.org</a></div>
Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-56470532711266800192014-10-25T11:25:00.000-07:002014-10-25T11:25:42.787-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Thank you !</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>The 2014 Queen City Writers Conference was a huge success. Many thanks to every participant, sponsor, vendor who helped in our project. We could not have done it without you!</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>2015 promises to be even greater. Stay tuned.......there is much more to come!</i></b></span></div>
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Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-80116392973940228702014-10-13T10:13:00.000-07:002014-10-13T10:13:45.772-07:002014 Queen City Writers Conference Countdown!Today begins our countdown to the conference and we couldn't be more excited. If you have not registered to attend any of the events you are going to miss out on great things over the next few days.<br />
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Tim Small, our Master Motivator is our spotlight feature for today. With several years of military experience Tim will be our bonus feature on Friday of the conference. His focus will be on a writers breakthrough! What does that look like and better yet what does it mean? It should be fun and inspiring.<br />
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It's not too late to join us. You can still register for the conference or simply register for the day. The workshops are endless, the networking opportunities will be memorable and all that is missing is you!<br />
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Queen City Writers Conference begins Thursday, October 16th at 9am.Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-13385095351188567052014-10-01T06:25:00.001-07:002014-10-01T06:27:33.771-07:00Who Are the Publishers for the 2014 Queen City Writers Conference?Do you have questions about Publishing? With so many changes in the Publishing industry these days, how does one choose? Is it easier to Self publish or to try work with a Traditional one? These answers and more will be addressed at the conference, October 16th - 18 at the Hilton Executive Park. Registrations are still going on.<br />
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ICP Consulting & Publishing<br />
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Comfort Publishing<br />
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Chalfont House Publishing<br />
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<br />Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-68822633613452320902014-09-27T12:59:00.000-07:002014-09-27T12:59:23.560-07:00Breast Cancer Fundraiser<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We are asking for your support. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We are supporting the cause. Will you join us? Proceeds will benefit local families that need immediate assistance.</div>
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<br />Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-8933189719668685482014-09-13T07:56:00.000-07:002014-09-13T07:56:28.246-07:00Who Are the Keynote Speakers for the 2014 Queen City Writers Conference?With the conference fast approaching and the early bird registration coming to a fast close, I thought I would give you a glimpse of the great Keynotes for this years conference.<br />
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<b style="color: #595959; font-family: 'Crimson Text'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.1760005950928px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Robert Inman- Author</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 22.1760005950928px;"> Robert Inman’s latest novel, </span><b style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 22.1760005950928px;"><i>The Governor’s Lady</i></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 22.1760005950928px;">, was</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack" style="color: #992211; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 22.1760005950928px; text-decoration: none;"></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 22.1760005950928px;"> published in September, 2013. Drawing on his a career as a journalist and creative writer, Inman has crafted the story of Cooper Lanier, a determined woman fighting to establish her independence in the tumultuous world of male-dominated politics.</span></div>
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<b><i>The Governor’s Lady</i></b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> is Inman’s fifth novel, following <b><i>Home Fires Burning</i></b> , <b><i>Old Dogs and Children</i></b>, <b><i>Dairy Queen Days</i></b>, and <b><i>Captain Saturday</i></b>, all published originally by Little, Brown and Company, and now available in popular</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> e-book formats. He is also the author of a collection of non-fiction work, <b><i>Coming Home: Life, Love and All Things Southern</i></b>, and an illustrated family holiday book, <b><i>The Christmas Bus</i></b>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Inman has written screenplays for six motion pictures for television, two of which have been “Hallmark Hall of Fame” presentations. His script for <b><i>The Summer of Ben Tyler</i></b>, a Hallmark production, won the Writers’ Guild of America Award as the best original television screenplay of 1997. His other Hallmark feature was <b><i>Home Fires Burning,</i></b> a 1989 adaptation of his novel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">He is a member of the Authors Guild, Writers Guild of America, Dramatists Guild, PEN American Center, North Carolina Writers Conference, North Carolina Writers Network, and Alabama Writers Forum.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: medium;"> Cathy Pickens - Author</span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 22.1760005950928px;">Cathy is a frequent convention speaker on topics ranging from writing mysteries to classic true crime stories to the use of poisons. She is the Wireman Professor of Business at Queens University of Charlotte, where she teaches MBA courses in law and workshops on developing the creative process.</span></div>
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The first Avery Andrews novel <u>Southern Fried</u> won the 2003 St. Martin’s Press/Malice Domestic Award for Best New Traditional Mystery. Cathy has also written four other <i>Southern Fried </i>mysteries and a mystery walking tour of Charleston: <u>Charleston Mysteries</u> (History Press).</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #595959; font-family: 'Crimson Text'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.1760005950928px;">She has served as president of Sisters in Crime (a 3000-member group of readers and writers), on the national board for Mystery Writers of America (the oldest mystery writers organization), and is currently president of the regional Forensic Medicine Program. </span><br />
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<strong><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.2159996032715px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Syndicated Talk Show Host – Francene Marie<o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div>
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<strong style="color: #595959; font-family: 'Crimson Text'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.1760005950928px;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.2159996032715px;">Francene Marie Morris </span></strong><span style="color: #595959; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18.2159996032715px;">is heard on 7-CBS Radio Stations in the Southeast Region. Francene began her radio career on Kiss 95.1 in Charlotte, North Carolina 20+years ago raising awareness to worthy causes and topics important to you and your families. From interviewing White house Politicians to local officials and non-profits, there’s no topic off-limits for her show. She’s an author, food blogger and voice artist. Founder of <b><i>My Media Tutor</i></b> - a training portal for media interview prep and facilitates public speaking boot-camps. Co-founder of <b><i>“Favorite Things For A Cause”</i></b>and mom of 2 adult people she admires.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 18.2159996032715px;">The author of two works of art: <b><i>GOING PUBLIC – The Cheat Sheets In Promoting Yourself to Media. </i></b>Another gem is: <b><i>Must Be Present to Win – The Tireless Spirit of Optimism. </i></b>Francene’s voice is heard on an <b><i>audio series of guided Meditation CD’s </i></b>and her award winning radio career has led to one on one interview’s with Vice President Joe Biden, Madeleine Albright, Valerie Jarrett, and renowned poet Dr. Maya Angelou.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Haven't signed up for the conference yet? What are you waiting for? You don't want to miss these Keynotes or any of the other speakers. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The early bird registration ends Monday, September 15th and the rate increases to $199.00. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We are writers supporting writers and what better way to take your writing to the next level than by attending this years conference?</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Join us! We look forward to meeting you there!</span></span></div>
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Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-34953929319238761502014-09-03T09:30:00.000-07:002014-09-03T09:30:32.280-07:00Delbert Earle's Window of Opportunity<header style="background-color: white; color: grey; font-family: 'Gentium Basic'; line-height: 24px;"><h1 class="entry-title" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Gentium Basic', Georgia, serif; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 0; margin-bottom: 0.3em; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">by Robert Inman</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Late Summer always brings thoughts of a new school year about to begin, and for my friend Delbert Earle, that always brings thoughts of Miz Pirtley.<span style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> </span>She was his senior English teacher, and Miz Pirtley’s favorite saying was, “Delbert Earle, if you ever stop acting the fool, you might amount to something.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Delbert Earle thought he was quite the dude in the Fall of his Senior year.<span style="margin-top: 0px;"> </span>He was playing halfback on the football team, going steady with a girl so cute she made him blush every time he thought of her, and headed toward graduation.<span style="margin-bottom: 0px;"> </span>Well, hoping he was headed toward graduation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Delbert Earle was the class cut-up, always the center of attention, and something of a practical jokester.<span style="margin-top: 0px;"> </span>Whenever Miz Pirtley found something in her desk drawer that wasn’t supposed to be there, she knew exactly where it came from.<span style="margin-bottom: 0px;"> </span>She found a good many strange things in her desk drawer that Fall, many of them alive and wiggling.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">One afternoon, a warm and lazy Indian Summer day begging to be enjoyed, Delbert Earle was standing on top of a desk in study hall, leaning out the window, talking to his girl.<span style="margin-top: 0px;"> </span>Miz Pirtley passed by in the hall, saw Delbert Earle, and moved faster than anybody had ever seen Miz Pirtley move before.<span style="margin-bottom: 0px;"> </span>She grabbed him by the ankles, gave a mighty shove, and threw Delbert Earle clean out the window into a nandina bush.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Then Miz Pirtley got up on the desk and looked out the window at Delbert Earle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">“What did you go and do that for?” he asked, his pride more damaged than his body.<span style="margin-top: 0px;"> </span>(The worst part was that his girlfriend laughed.<span style="margin-bottom: 0px;"> </span>Loudly.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">“Delbert Earle,” Miz Pirtley said sweetly, “I was just acting the fool, and it was too good an opportunity to pass up.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Delbert Earle turned out all right.<span style="margin-top: 0px;"> </span>He’s got a good job and a nice family now, pays his taxes, never misses voting in an election, and speaks pretty good English. He’s acted the fool a few times in his life, as we all have.<span style="margin-bottom: 0px;"> </span>But a few times he’s started to and didn’t, and the reason he didn’t was that he thought of Miz Pirtley.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">One of these days soon, as Summer becomes Fall, Delbert Earle plans to go by the school and thank Miz Pirtley.<span style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> </span>But he plans to stay clear of the windows.</span></div>
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<i>Robert Inman<span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px;"> has written screenplays for six motion pictures for television, two of which have been “Hallmark Hall of Fame” presentations. His script for </span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-top: 0px;">The </strong><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px;">Summer of Ben Tyler</strong></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px;">, a Hallmark production, won the Writers’ Guild of America Award as the best original television screenplay of 1997. His other Hallmark feature was</span><strong style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Home Fires Burning</span></strong><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px;">, a 1989 adaptation of his novel. He is also a Keynote Speaker at the Queen City Writers Conference, October 18, 2014, Charlotte, NC.</span></i></div>
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Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-54436696006964014172014-08-28T09:29:00.001-07:002014-08-28T09:29:16.823-07:00Lisa Heidrich's Radio Interview<article class="post-810 post type-post status-publish format-standard category-uncategorized entry" itemprop="blogPost" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://schema.org/BlogPosting" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(245, 245, 245); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 3px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 40px;"><header class="entry-header" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><h2 class="entry-title" itemprop="headline" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: raleway-1, raleway-2, 'Roboto Slab', sans-serif; font-size: 35px; font-weight: 100; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 16px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://angiebrashear.com/2014/08/27/speaking-confidence-an-interview-with-lisa-heidrich/" rel="bookmark" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;" title="Speaking Confidence: An Interview with Lisa Heidrich">Speaking Confidence: An Interview with Lisa Heidrich</a></h2>
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<time class="entry-time" datetime="2014-08-27T10:00:56+00:00" itemprop="datePublished" style="box-sizing: border-box;">AUGUST 27, 2014</time> BY <span class="entry-author" itemprop="author" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="entry-author-link" href="http://angiebrashear.com/author/abrashear/" itemprop="url" rel="author" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;">ANGIE BRASHEAR</a></span> <span class="entry-comments-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="http://angiebrashear.com/2014/08/27/speaking-confidence-an-interview-with-lisa-heidrich/#comments" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;">1 COMMENT</a></span></div>
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Today we welcome Lisa Heidrich, author of <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Speaking Confidence</em>. For a chance to win an ebook copy of her motivational book, comment below.</div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Hi Lisa! Tell me a bit about where you’re from.</span></div>
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Angie, I was born in Manhattan, NYC and lived there for a short time, just two young years, so I don’t remember what it’s like to live in the “Big Apple.”</div>
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I grew up in south Florida—call it home—lived there, went to school there, and had my children there. Moved to North Carolina about fourteen years ago. I remember we moved in the fall of 1999, and I would drive up and down I-77, to see the pink, plum, red, orange, and yellow leaves. I never knew anything but Palm Trees! I love the four seasons this state offers but miss the ocean near my home town.</div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">I can relate to a love for the ocean and autumn. My hometown, Rockland, Maine has both. So you’ve journeyed to very different place in the United States. Now tell me a bit about your journey to salvation.</span></div>
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I grew up thinking I was a Christian. I thought I knew all about God. I had learned all the dogma and had obligation down pat. Nearly two decades ago I experienced grief, loss, and real life trauma. I was maxed out and at the end of my rope. I had lost all hope for this life. Someone invited me to a small group Bible study. I thought I was going to a coffee social. That’s where I found Jesus, and truly understood what it was to be given grace and have a one-on-one relationship with the Lord of this universe who loved me with a lavish love. I finally found my Hope. Jesus. My life verse is, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33). I learned that religion never saves us from ourselves, but relationship does. That’s my official salvation quote. I love sharing my testimony and take every opportunity to share it, and have across eight states for the past six years seeing women give their lives to Christ. It’s been a blessing and truly a journey with Jesus.</div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">What an incredible testimony! Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.</span></div>
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I am an introvert. I hate shredded coconut. I am Mommy to a Harlequin Macaw named Matilda and Great Dane named Mercy. [giggle]</div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Well, I know your favorite animal. What’s your favorite book? Why?</span></div>
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The Bible, I love non-fiction. Truly the only REAL READ that leads to life change. Every time I read the Bible I learn something new no matter how many times I read it. For example, just recently I read Isaiah 14:14, in short, “God doesn’t need our advice”. That’s powerful. I love being moved by what I read.</div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">So, I *think* I already know the answer, but…what is your favorite genre to read? Write?</span></div>
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READ & WRITE: Non-Fiction. I love true stories, autobiographies, biographies, stories about authentic people, and learning new things.</div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">I wish I had the desire to read <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">more </em>nonfiction. I’m a fan of speculative fiction, especially fantasy and dystopian. Who does your intended audience include? Believers and nonbelievers? In what ways do you believe your story reaches each?</span></div>
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Believers and nonbelievers. At heart I consider myself an “evangelista,” a female version of an evangelist! [smile] My book reaches both audiences because glossophobia is the #1 FEAR in our universe. The dreaded FEAR of PUBLIC speaking. My conviction is: there are bigger topics and scenarios to be afraid of, like dying without knowing Jesus. I am also passionate about connecting people with their public voices and sharing their story with confidence. My favorite story is from Jeremiah chapter 1, where Jeremiah makes all kinds of excuses about speaking, how he’s just a child, he doesn’t have the words, and he is terrified. Similar to excuses one might argue when they have to speak in public. My advice—my word, God’s word to them is stand up and say your piece—HE will give the words and anoint your lips. It’s our nature as people to speak, there is no point letting it hold anyone back from their potential. In many cases, I am finding it is a generational strong hold, a fear passed down from generation to generation.</div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">How long did it take you to write this book?</span></div>
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My book, <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Speaking Confidence</em> was birthed in three AMAZING months. This is a miracle story and was a Divine appointment for me. I originally thought I was going to write a devotional/gift-type book, so I attended a writing conference and booked an appointment with a publisher who wrote in RED pen all over my manuscript and asked me seemingly difficult questions. I left the appointment dejected, READY to go home. I would have IF I didn’t have a roommate who came all the way from Cincinnati, and I was her RIDE back to the airport in three days. She arrived at our room to find me in bed at 3:00 PM, crying. She agreed “so & so was a REAL JERK” because she had talked to him too. Girlfriends know how to cheer us up. The next day I ate an orange for breakfast in our room and had quiet time, prayed and cried out to God. I left the room around noon and walked toward the cafeteria for lunch. In my peripheral vision I could see two women coming up on my right. Inside I shuddered and secretly hoped they wouldn’t “talk” to me. Thankfully they did and I met my publisher (and her sister) at that lunch date. I pitched a verbal idea about <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Speaking Confidence</em> and she said, “Send me the first chapter.” I was too terrified to pitch the devotion/gift book again! That was May, my book was written, edited and published late fall. It was a God thing and I give Him the glory for the book.</div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Lisa, thank you so much for venturing to other worlds with. I truly hope your writing endeavors glorify God.</span></div>
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Thank you, Angie, for allowing me to share with you! May I give a “shout-out” for the Queen City Writers Conference in Charlotte, NC on October 16<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">th</span>-18<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">th</span>?</div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Of course.</span></div>
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I am excited to be on faculty and hope to meet some new friends! Catch the $99 early bird registration till September 15 at <a href="http://qcwritersgroup.blogspot.com/" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;">http://qcwritersgroup.blogspot.com/</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://angiebrashear.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/speaking-conficence.jpg" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;"><img alt="Speaking Conficence" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-812" height="160" src="http://angiebrashear.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/speaking-conficence.jpg?w=160&h=160" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto 24px; max-width: 100%;" width="160" /></a></div>
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Purchase <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Speaking Confidence </em>on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Speaking-Confidence-Lisa-Bongiorno-Heidrich-ebook/dp/B009EFZJCG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1408414048&sr=8-1&keywords=speaking+confidence%2C+Lisa+Bongiorno-Heidrich" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;">Amazon</a>.</div>
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Lisa Bongiorno-Heidrich, RN,CCM,CHP, asserts writing unsurprisingly exists hand-in-hand with speaking. An International speaker, Ministry Director, Global Conversationalist, and author of <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Speaking Confidence</em>, Lisa enjoys helping others find their niche through their unique voice, message, and mission. Contributor for monthly web-based articles, along with blogs at <a href="http://www.lisaheidrich.com/" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;">www.LisaHeidrich.com</a>. A real social butterfly, you’ll catch daily on Facebook and Twitter @LisaCHeidrich. With twenty years experience teaching, speaking, and coaching, she offers a compilation of vital information for speaking and writing trepidation. She grew up in Florida, now resides in North Carolina, and holds degrees in nursing and vocational education. She is currently the Publicity Director and Faculty Member of Queen City Writers Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina.</div>
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</header></article>Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-43771723232945995822014-08-20T07:02:00.000-07:002014-08-20T07:02:08.929-07:002014 Queen City Writers Conference Announcement<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b>Great News!</b></i></div>
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<i>Queen City Writers Conference on <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_258869404" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">October 16 -18, 2014</span></span>, Charlotte, NC— </i></div>
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<i>We are pleased to ANNOUNCE that due to the fantastic interest in this conference the publicity committee has deemed it necessary to EXTEND the Early Bird rate of $99 which includes a 3-day pass to writing workshops, critique groups, discussion panels, and general sessions. This affordable pricing has been extended for a limited time. Register and get complete details online at <a href="http://www.qcwritersgroup.blogspot.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">www.qcwritersgroup.<wbr></wbr>blogspot.com</a>. </i></div>
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<i>This is the most sensational writers conference hitting the Queen City this FALL — you can't afford to miss it! There IS a workshop for </i>everyone, <i>seasoned authors, up-and-coming writers, journalists, and students alike. We even have a special writing class for TEENS <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_258869405" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">on Saturday</span></span>, an elegant AWARDS & semi-formal dinner banquet <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_258869406" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Saturday</span></span> night featuring keynote speaker <b>Robert</b></i><i><b> </b></i><i><b>Inman</b> for $40 per person. See CBS radio personality </i><b><i>Francine Marie</i></b><i> LIVE <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_258869407" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Thursday</span></span> night, mystery author <b>Cathy Pickens</b> <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_258869408" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">on Friday</span></span> night, and join the Pro-Panel discussion & open mic with experts in the field—ask questions and get answers—plus so much more.</i></div>
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<i> We are also giving a last call to vendors for networking with new customers RIGHT HERE IN CHARLOTTE. Vendor tables are only $50 for the 3-day conference. SPACE IS LIMITED. The Queen City Writers Conference, <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_258869409" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">October 16-18, 2014</span></span>, at the Executive Park Hilton (I-77 and Tyvola Road in Charlotte NC)—Come join the writing extravaganza of the season... WRITE here, WRITE now! See you there!</i></div>
Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-20169638353879649392014-08-19T10:28:00.000-07:002014-08-19T10:28:36.712-07:00Are You a Lone Ranger?<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JFf0MFlK21U/U_OIDyYKdOI/AAAAAAAAAUo/tMa9ICMeZlc/s1600/lone%2Branger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JFf0MFlK21U/U_OIDyYKdOI/AAAAAAAAAUo/tMa9ICMeZlc/s1600/lone%2Branger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JFf0MFlK21U/U_OIDyYKdOI/AAAAAAAAAUo/tMa9ICMeZlc/s1600/lone%2Branger.jpg" height="147" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">By Rachelle Gardner</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>
In publishing, we’re constantly asking writers—typically a rather introverted bunch—to get involved, to engage, to network, to join groups and go to conferences. I often find myself wondering how many of you cringe every time you hear that kind of advice.<br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Maybe you’re not into the whole publishing “scene.” Maybe you don’t enjoy being in a critique group where people discuss your work.</span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><strong style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Maybe you don’t want to be part of a crowd, you don’t want to go to workshops, you don’t think of writing as a group activity. </strong><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Maybe social media is not your thing. The thought of promoting your book gives you hives. You don’t want to be a speaker or a blogger or a Facebook expert.</span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><strong style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Can such a person find success in publishing?</strong><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Yes—but these days it’s rare.</span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> <a name='more'></a></span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">You’d have to be pretty darned talented to begin with. If you’re not going to workshops to learn, and you’re not getting feedback on your work, then in order to snag an agent and a publisher, or even find a large audience through self-publishing, you’d have to be writing amazing stuff without benefit of the collaborative process. There are definitely some writers who can pull this off. You may be one of them. The only way to know is to try it and see what happens.</span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">There are still stories of writers getting their agent through the query process, without ever networking </span><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">or getting a referral or going to a conference. </span><strong style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">But eventually you’ll need to build an audience for your book, whether you’re with a publisher or doing it yourself.</strong><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> You are going to have to engage with your readers and potential ones.</span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Most of that can be done online, so if you’re at least comfortable with blogs and social networking, you should be able to market yourself just fine. You don’t necessarily have to be “out there” promoting except in the virtual world.</span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><strong style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">For all the emphasis on critique groups and workshops and conferences, we recognize the reality that not all writers are cut out for all that.</strong><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> While this kind of involvement does offer terrific advantages for those who are able to do it—and there are some people who would never find success if they didn’t avail themselves of every possible resource—all is not lost if you can’t.</span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">In the past, writers have told me they can’t afford conferences, or don’t have access to them because they live in a remote location. Some have said they haven’t been able to find a critique group. I tell them it’s up to them to find success despite the limitations.</span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">But I rarely hear from writers who say, “I am not interested in all that group stuff. I am a writer! I sit in my cave and write — </span><em style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">by myself</em><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">. I have no desire to do it any other way.”</span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><br style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><span style="color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Today’s your chance.</span><br style="background-color: #f5eddc; color: #110327; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;" /><br />Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-9854480980930970602014-08-04T06:05:00.000-07:002014-08-04T06:11:27.554-07:009 Things I Did To Become A Full-Time Writer<h1 class="entry-title" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 38px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 42px; margin: 0px -100px 30px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
<em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: #a8a8a8; font-family: Merriweather; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">by</em><span style="color: #a8a8a8; font-family: Merriweather; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px;"> </span><a href="http://carloscooper.com/" rel="author external" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #a8a8a8; font-family: Merriweather; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Visit Carlos Cooper’s website">Carlos Cooper</a><span style="color: #a8a8a8; font-family: Merriweather; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px;"> </span><span style="color: #a8a8a8; font-family: Merriweather; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px;">|</span><span style="color: #a8a8a8; font-family: Merriweather; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px;"> </span><a href="http://thewritepractice.com/become-a-full-time-writer/#disqus_thread" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #a8a8a8; font-family: Merriweather; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">50 Comments</a></h1>
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Three years ago, I was like many of you. Just starting out. Not a clue which way to go. I had an idea for a book and that was it, but I wanted to become a full-time writer.</div>
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Fast forward a couple years, and I’m doing this for a living (on top of being a stay-at-home dad). I make a living writing fiction, but everything didn’t converge until four months ago. So what did I do to get here?</div>
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If you don’t want to hear a bit of my story, and think I may be tooting my own horn, feel free to read some of Joe’s stuff <a href="http://thewritepractice.com/prompts-links/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #ff6633; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">HERE</a>. He’s much gooder than me anyway. <img alt=":)" class="wp-smiley" src="http://thewritepractice.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; height: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" /></div>
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If you’re like me, and you enjoy hearing what others have learned in hopes of avoiding potential pitfalls, and you want to see what it took for me to become a full-time writer, continuing reading, my friend.</div>
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1. I Stopped Looking For Permission</h2>
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I learned basic grammar and story-telling in grade school. I took one mandatory creating writing course in college.</div>
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That makes me a hack. I am not classically trained. But who cares?</div>
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The second I realized that it was all about writing stories that I enjoyed, and that readers might buy, I stopped listening to people who said I couldn't be a writer.</div>
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You are a writer the nanosecond you <a href="http://thewritepractice.com/writers-mantra/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #ff6633; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">declare it</a>.</div>
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2. I Learned To Deal With Rejection</h2>
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Bad reviews stink.</div>
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Not having your closest family read your stuff hurts even more.</div>
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I had to come to the realization that my closest friends and family were not my target audience and that one crappy review could not eclipse twenty or thirty great ones.</div>
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<a href="http://thewritepractice.com/you-will-be-rejected/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #ff6633; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Rejection is everywhere</a>. Learn to focus on the silver lining instead.</div>
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3. I Read Everything I Could About Being A Writer</h2>
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I’m an entrepreneur so this one was right up my alley. The Internet makes it so easy. There are tons of websites dedicated to the writing. Do a search for “How To Be A Writer” and you’ll get more than you could ever process.</div>
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The point is if you’re going to be a writer, read about being a writer.</div>
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4. I Developed Relationships With Like-Minded Writers</h2>
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I've talked about this in <a href="http://thewritepractice.com/be-a-writer-with-friends/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #ff6633; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">other posts</a>, but I can’t tell you how good it felt to find writers with the same mentality as me.</div>
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Guy and gals who were willing to type fingers to the bone in their quest for success. I no longer had my Marines, but I had something else. What I found were warrior writers.</div>
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Surround yourself with positive writers who challenge you to be great.</div>
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5. I Developed My Craft</h2>
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The moment you think you've figured it out, learn something new.</div>
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Developing your talent takes time and gobs of effort. Luckily I’m imbued with this annoying habit of self-analysis. I think most of my stuff could be better.</div>
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That’s not to say that I hold my work back. What I do is take classes and try to hone my craft while publishing as I learn. I’m always improving.</div>
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Don’t ever stop chasing perfection.</div>
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6. I Discovered That My Stories Aren't Really Mine</h2>
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I think a lot of writers get stumped because they think it’s up to them to come up with a story. I am a firm believer that that’s not actually how it works.</div>
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Think about it. When you look at a crumbling castle in Scotland a story probably comes to mind. When you happen across a teetering drunk you probably envision what led them there.</div>
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Before every writing session, I stop, close my eyes, and ask God (you may want to use the Universe or something less religious-y) to bring me the story.</div>
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I even posted this quote on my wall: “The story isn't mine. I’m just the conduit.”</div>
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As long as I remember that, and try not to force the story, I don’t have a problem completing my novels.</div>
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Be the conduit, not the source.</div>
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7. I Learned About The Business of Writing</h2>
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This is in addition to #3. I couldn't just learn how to be a writer. I had to learn how to navigate the business of writing. Like I said before, there’s plenty of information out there. Take it in bite-sized chunks and apply the most important parts immediately.</div>
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Without business, there is no writing income.</div>
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8. I Gave My Stuff Away For Free</h2>
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I know a lot of you hate this one. That’s cool. The only problem is that it may be holding you back from being successful.</div>
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This past March I set my first book to perma-free. You read right. That book will be free FOREVER.</div>
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You’re probably thinking, “Carlos! You’re crazy!”</div>
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My answer to you: Only on Sundays.</div>
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Here’s the truth. The more I've given away, the more sales I've made. A lot more.</div>
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This isn't my idea. Guys and gals like Robert J. Crane and SM Reine paved the way. But they planted the seed, and now I’m gearing up to do the same thing with my <a href="http://amzn.com/B00BUAZL12" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #ff6633; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">first three books</a> in the <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Corps Justice</em> series.</div>
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Stop being greedy. Give readers a chance to love your work without asking for a penny.</div>
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9. I Wrote</h2>
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The most important lesson comes last. This is the big one, ya’ll.</div>
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If I don’t write, there are no books.</div>
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Without books, I cannot sell.</div>
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Without sales, I can’t do this full-time.</div>
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More than one writer has said that the best piece of marketing they ever did was write their next book. It’s true.</div>
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Every new book I publish sells more than the last. My readers want the next installment.</div>
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That’s made me ramp up my plans which now include six to ten new novels every year.</div>
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You may (once again) think I’m nuts, but I love what I do. I love writing prolifically. After all, isn't a writer’s only <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">real</em> job to write?</div>
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<em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">What’s keeping you from pursuing writing at a higher level?</strong></em></div>
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Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-54658934954244379662014-07-30T06:42:00.000-07:002014-07-30T06:42:37.394-07:00Stuck in Traffic - Freeing Yourself from Writer's Block<div style="text-align: center;">
Stuck In Traffic</div>
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Freeing Yourself from Writer’s Block</div>
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latanmurphy.com</div>
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Being trapped on the interstate in bumper-to-bumper traffic is not the way I like to spend my time! Can you relate to being stuck in traffic at the most inopportune times? It usually happens when under a deadline of some sort, or when running late for an important meeting, right?<br />
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Once stuck, it’s difficult to move over to an exit ramp. No one is paying attention to your predicament regardless of how fast and furious your rear blinker flashes.<br />
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I have often felt this way when it comes to writing. Finding myself ‘stuck in traffic’ time and time again as my fingers are held hostage on the keyboard. Creative flow is suddenly forced to stop in the midst of bumper-to-bumper plots and storylines trafficking through my head. With my creative flow stuck, clarity of content becomes crippled, threatening to block the message I am trying to convey.<br />
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Being ‘stuck in traffic’ is metaphorically something familiar to most writers. There is nothing worse than being on a good roll in your writing only to find yourself suddenly STUCK mid-stream with writer’s block.<br />
I am excited to share a few ideas that have helped me move beyond writer’s block. Each of the following will equip and help to avoid being ‘stuck in traffic’.<br />
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<li>Passion - Write about things that you are passionate about; otherwise, you will find yourself stuck for sure!</li>
<li>Authenticity - Express yourself authentically. Do NOT try to be someone else, or write like someone else. Authenticity is the best approach to writing, or speaking powerfully. </li>
<li>Credibility - The most powerful books are written by people who keep their story-line true to themselves. For example: If you grew up in Europe, you have much to say about European culture. If your book is about depression, credibility would prove most powerful as you share YOUR story, instead of scientific facts only.</li>
<li>Rest - In order to keep your thought processes flowing and moving in a productive direction, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before you begin an important writing venture. A clear mind equals no mental traffic jams! (Coffee always helps too!)</li>
<li>Research – Be sure to do your homework after choosing your topic. Topical writing requires time and research.</li>
<li>Relate – work hard at relating to your reader by drawing them into your story-line both intellectually and emotionally.</li>
<li>Voice – be diligent about finding your voice in both written and spoken word. </li>
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I look forward to having you attend the Queen City Writer’s Conference. I would like to personally invite you to attend my workshops: Finding Your Voice and Establishing Your Platform. Fun times are ahead as we grow and learn together! <br />
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In order to register for the Queen City Writer’s Conference in October 2014, please go to: <a href="http://qcitywritergroup.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://qcwritersgroup.blogspot.com/ </a>Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-77018721283309810632014-07-28T06:59:00.001-07:002014-07-28T07:03:28.502-07:00A Writer’s Guide to Stop Panicking and Get the Most from a Critique<div style="text-align: center;">
by Emily Wenstrom</div>
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Even when you ask for it, when people critique your writing it can feel like a dagger to the gut. It can knock out your confidence and even cause you to question whether you should ever bother picking up a pen again.</div>
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When a group of beta readers critiqued the manuscript for my first novel, I felt like I was on the cusp of a true panic for days. Was my manuscript too problematic to be fixed? Was I a terrible writer? Maybe I wasn’t really a writer at all and should just give up.</div>
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But critique feedback can also help you make your work even better—not just in this manuscript but in general. Once I calmed down, I realized that there was a lot of positive in the feedback I’d gotten, too. My manuscript was definitely fixable, perhaps even pretty good—it just had some areas where it could be even better. And then I actually excited to make those improvements and started coming up with even more creative ideas to add into it.</div>
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You can get past critique panic too—what makes the difference is how you handle it. Here’s some tips on how to move past the fear and get the most from it:</div>
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Accept the critique</h2>
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The worst thing about feedback is what we imagine it will be. Don’t let the fear of your feedback stop you from moving forward. Bite the bullet and read it through all the way. It’s okay if at first it makes you angry or if you don’t agree with any of it. Just read and take it all in.</div>
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Take some space to think about the critique</h2>
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Once you've read through all your feedback, step away from it for a few days and just let the feedback marinate. It’s hard to hear criticism and alternate ideas about something you've created. During this time, remember the positive comments you got, too–just because there’s ways to improve doesn't mean you’re not a good writer!</div>
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But if you let yourself have the time to mull on that feedback, you may be surprised to find you agree or that it triggers new creative ideas. Other suggestions you may decide not to take.</div>
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Get a game plan on how to act on the critique</h2>
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Even when you you've had the space to calm down and decide what to do with your feedback, it can be overwhelming to think about the work required to execute on them. What you need is a game plan.</div>
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Write a list of all the things you want to address, and order them from the biggest plot-level changes to the smallest detail changes like word choices. Addressing changes in this order will eliminate some unnecessary effort fixing things that need to change anyway.</div>
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Butt in seat.</h2>
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Then, the only thing left is to put in the work and plug through your to-dos. Stay focused and don’t let this last stage of hard effort get you down. You’ll be working your way into the publishing stages soon.</div>
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Receiving a critique on your manuscript can be deeply personal and extremely difficult. But don’t let that fear or insecurity hold you back from getting all you can from constructive feedback. Keep a cool head and a critique can make your manuscript even stronger.</div>
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<img alt="" class="avatar avatar-100 photo" src="http://1.gravatar.com/avatar/9d1ffb1573810d85c170b9bd43fd22af?s=100&d=http%3A%2F%2F1.gravatar.com%2Favatar%2Fad516503a11cd5ca435acc9bb6523536%3Fs%3D100&r=G" height="100" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border-bottom-left-radius: 50%; border-bottom-right-radius: 50%; border-top-left-radius: 50%; border-top-right-radius: 50%; border: 0px; float: left; height: auto; margin: 0px 20px 20px 0px; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" width="100" /></div>
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About Emily Wenstrom</h3>
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Lit addict, movie junkie, geek. <a href="https://twitter.com/EmilyWenstrom" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #ff9933; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Emily Wenstrom</a> is a professional writer working in PR. She blogs about creativity at <a href="http://www.creativejuicer.wordpress.com/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #ff6633; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Creative Juicer</a> and is editor of short story zine <a href="http://www.wordhaus.com/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #ff6633; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">wordhaus</a>.</div>
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Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-35954172255123341932014-07-21T10:30:00.000-07:002014-07-21T10:30:35.320-07:00Good Writing or a Good Storyteller?<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Good Writing or a Good Storyteller?</span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">by Peter Quinn</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Shakespeare was a good writer, “Her flesh barren and pure, his desires it did beckon.” Jackie Collins is a good storyteller, “She stood before him her bare shoulder begging his attentions.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Okay, I made the quotes up. I didn’t want to deal with copyright laws and, yes, I am being lazy. My point is that both are successful in their genres, selling millions of copies and starting just as many conversations. Both are good writers and storytellers, but I am certain that we will probably never see a Jackie Collins novel on a high school summer reading list where, to the chagrin of many students, we do find William Shakespeare. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Why isn’t Jackie on the summer reading list? The PTA banning her books for high school consumption is not the answer I’m looking for. What makes the difference between a classic and a best seller? Not all best sellers are classics and not all classics are best sellers. Case in point, “Snookie” from <i>Jersey Shore</i> wrote a best seller that no one read and is in no danger of becoming a classic.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Is a good writer necessarily a good storyteller? Can every good writer set a scene and draw out emotion through only the written word? Does every good writer spin a good tale that makes the book a page tuner? How many writers inspire people to read their whole book in one day?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I believe that given the opportunity both Will and Jackie would attend the conference, although “Snookie” wouldn’t, to share their thoughts on what makes a good writer versus what makes a good storyteller. Are the two totally separate, like Ms. Collins and Mr. Shakespeare who seem to live on different ends of the writing spectrum? Or, do they meet somewhere in the middle?</span></div>
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Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-63825705019134501062014-07-17T10:22:00.000-07:002014-07-17T10:22:52.149-07:005 Exercises For Your Write Brain<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b>5 Exercises For Your Write Brain</b></u></div>
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by Lisa Heidrich</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1lwPpk2RVJE/U8gF79sKOWI/AAAAAAAAAOY/c6t_EBnex1M/s1600/lisalisa.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1lwPpk2RVJE/U8gF79sKOWI/AAAAAAAAAOY/c6t_EBnex1M/s1600/lisalisa.png" height="200" width="166" /></a><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"> As
writers we are sometimes cooped up, prisoners to a keyboard and
computer screen for hours… resulting in muscle stiffness, fatigue,
decreased circulation and the possibility of other health issues.
Prevention is easy if we keep the following in mind. Our bodies are
engineered to move, crave refreshment, (washed, filled with good
nutrients and water, moisturized and massaged) and require exercise
(stimulate muscle growth, circulation and strength). Incorporating an
EASY exercise program that fits into our writing schedule entails one
decision,</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>DO
IT</i></span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">.
Exercises for writers begin from the top down and here are a few
suggestions to push you in the WRITE direction. </span>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">#1)
POSTURE how is your body alignment as you sit at your favorite
writing place?It is critical to insure proper body alignment and
posture. Shoulders back, feet flat on the floor, knees at ninety
degree angle, chest up and out. Take a deep breath in via the nose
and count to 5, exhale through your mouth 5 seconds with eyes closed.
Feel better? This breathing exercise expands your diaphragm,
stimulates abdominal muscles, and rests your eyes. Lift your
shoulders up toward your ears and hold for 10 seconds, release and
repeat. Turn your head from side to side looking over each shoulder
and hold for ten seconds, repeat keep stretching and rotating your
neck and awakening every tense neck muscle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">#2)
SMILE and hold. Did you know that exercising your facial muscles is
important? Lift your eyebrows up and open your eyes WIDE and hold for
3 seconds, release and repeat. Pucker your lips as far out as you
can then draw them back wide and over your teeth lifting your neck
muscles, making an “OOO” and then “EEE” movement with your
mouth repeat 10 times. No more wrinkles, just smile them away.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">#3)
LIFT your arms over your head and stretch fingers as far as you can
reaching for the ceiling, hold for 5 seconds, repeat. Extend your
arms out to the sides at shoulder level and make 8 big circles in a
forward motion and 8 big circles in backward motion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">#4)
PRESS your feet flat on the floor, push toes down becoming tippy
toed, lifting up and tightening your calf muscles. Try this 10 times
then reverse and raise your toes upward using your heels to draw your
calves tight and hold for 7 seconds, repeat. This leg exercise is
great for circulation and will help prevent blood clots from blood
pooling in your legs during sedentary times. Using your thigh muscles
or quads lift up one leg and hold it out straight for 6 seconds, draw
circles rotating your ankle and wiggle your toes do 8-10 sets on each
leg tightening your quads, gluteal muscles, and knees as you lift
each leg.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">#5)
HYDRATION, your body needs water, keep a water bottle handy and
remember to refresh yourself with a sip or two every hour as you
write. The follow up to a good workout is always a cool drink.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">These
are exercise moves for your </span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>work
station workout</b></i></span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">
to improve circulation, mobility, and range of motion to implement at
your own risk. Consider getting up every hour and taking a walk
around the house 3 times or if you have stairs multiple jaunts will
promote healthy movement, circulation, and refresh your body and
mind. Plus these simple steps will improve your productivity;
eliminate stiffness, and discomfort, from those long writing sessions
while providing revitalization of your creative juices to flow again,
back into your WRITE mind.</span></div>
Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-67510391433295559302014-07-15T06:52:00.000-07:002014-07-15T06:52:18.594-07:00Rushing To Publish<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 18.0pt; font-variant: small-caps;">Rushing To Publish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Advice to New Authors</div>
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By Craig Faris</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XTCn_eEUReg/U8UxLM405YI/AAAAAAAAAOI/lhckHVYK34M/s1600/Craig+Faris+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XTCn_eEUReg/U8UxLM405YI/AAAAAAAAAOI/lhckHVYK34M/s1600/Craig+Faris+pic.jpg" height="186" width="200" /></a></div>
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So, you are writing your first novel. That's quite a goal and best of
luck with it. You may be a natural at storytelling and technique, but most of
us are not. If this is your first attempt at writing, my best advice is to set
the novel aside and try your hand at short stories or something easier like poems,
essays, or articles. Writing is a lot like singing… we all think we know what
we are doing, and some of us might be pretty good at it, but like singing,
writing takes practice. Lots and lots of practice! </div>
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If you have already completed a book or a short story and feel that
you already have all the practice you need, <i>don't
rush to publish</i>. Make sure you find a "professional" editor to go
through it with a nit comb before you put it out there. Why? Because people
will <i>read</i> it and they will <i>find</i> and point out all of those <i>tiny</i> errors that you missed. My biggest
errors are missing words... not important words, just those little extra words
like “a” or “of” or “is.” Nothing ruins your day like seeing all of your
wonderful 5-stars reviews, spoiled by that nasty one-star review that points
out all of our ignorance in grammar and spelling. Unfortunately those reviews
are the one's people seem to read the most and remember. </div>
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Believe me when I say that I'm not trying to throw cold water on your writing
efforts. By all means, we need to write more because practice makes perfect. I’m
just speaking from my own experience, so perhaps you can avoid my mistakes.</div>
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I really thought my first novel would become a bestseller
"until" I joined a writer’s critique group and quickly discovered
that I really had NO IDEA what I was doing. During my first meeting in our
group, the answers to these and other questions were answered:</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->My “Sci-fi Historical Suspense Romance Thriller,” is over
three times too long for a first novel? Really? Why wouldn’t a publishing house
jump at the chance to buy a 226,800 word novel from an unknown author? Is a 3 ½
inch spine a bad thing?</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->What do you mean by “needing to better define my
genre?”</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->After <i>three years</i>
writing, how come I’ve never heard of the writing concept called, "show
us, don't tell us?" </div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->What’s wrong with changing point-of-view in mid
paragraph? </div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->5.<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->I thought "editors" took care of little things
like grammar and spelling. </div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->6.<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Did you know that Microsoft Word has a little known
error message that says, "There are too many spelling errors in this
document to correct?" (no kidding) </div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->7.<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->So if my computer gave up on correcting my book, you
think it's time I try something else? </div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->8.<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Do you mean a short story can have all the same
elements of plot, characterization, suspense, humor and satisfaction as a 970
page novel, but it only takes 3 <i>days</i>
of my life to write, rather than 3 <i>years</i>?
Wow!</div>
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That said, by all means keep writing. The more you write, the better
you get. Then find a local "supportive" writers group (not one that
tears your manuscript apart and offers no helpful suggestions) and attend <i>every</i> meeting. Once you have the first
draft, let them read it and study their suggestions and critiques. You don't always
have to apply every suggestion, but ask yourself why they made the comments. Plan
on rewriting your book at least three times and then show it to a <i>professional </i>editor. </div>
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Finally, before you publish your masterpiece, enter it into some
contests. Why? Because MOST contests require the work to be <i>unpublished</i>. Win some awards! Those plaques on the wall
and award checks are far more satisfying than seeing your book on Amazon.com,
with 67 total sales. And guess what? Awards help you promote and SELL your
book. </div>
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My second novel when through "10 years" of rewrites and was
finally published last year. But on the day it came out, it had already won <i>four</i> literary awards in regional,
national and international competitions. Even the book trailer won an award;
Second Place in the MARSocial.com international book trailer competition. That
helps, but we are <i>still</i> finding
little mistakes even though it has been rewritten and edited more times than I
can remember. </div>
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Every time I get a new review on Amazon, I hold my breath and look at
the little stars. So far they have all been good, but I know the day will come
when an English professor from Harvard writes that first scathing review and
I’ll say to myself, “Why didn’t anyone tell me about comma splices?”</div>
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Best of luck, and I’m sure all of you have corrected the comma splices
in your novels. :-)</div>
Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-35920689033699051432014-07-07T09:40:00.001-07:002014-07-07T09:46:44.496-07:00The Perfect Pitch <h2>
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<span style="color: #0000cc;">The Perfect Pitch: Pitching to Agents at a Writing Conference</span></center>
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<h3>
by Sue Fagalde Lick</h3>
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Your heart pounds, your hands sweat, your knees shake on your way to what could be the most important meeting of your life: a 10-minute session with an agent or editor.<br />
Is it worth the stress? Yes.<br />
Many conferences allow writers to schedule short face-to-face meetings with agents and editors. It's a great opportunity to pitch one's book. It's also terribly nerve-wracking. After all, most of us are more effective on paper, and a bad meeting can ruin your chances with that person forever. But one successful meeting can make your book-publishing dreams come true. It can also save months of mailing queries and waiting for answers.<br />
Preparation is the key. David Hale Smith of DHS Literary, Inc., attends six to eight conferences a year looking for "that one diamond in the rough." Smith urges writers to prepare a three-minute pitch in which they boil their project down to three to five sentences. Practice that pitch until you can deliver it smoothly. The whole point of the meeting is to get your writing read. You're not there to chat, make a new friend or list the problems you're having with your writing but to convince the agent to give it a look. "You're sitting there and the door's open."<br />
Pitch sessions are obviously stressful. Smith admits he still gets nervous pitching books to editors, but he can handle his nerves because he is prepared. "Think of it as a business meeting," he says. "You're coming to a business meeting with a product." The writer must be able to describe his book clearly and briefly. If he can't, how is the agent going to describe it to an editor, who in turn has to pitch the book to his superiors and ultimately to the publisher's sales force, which has to pitch the book to the buyers?<br />
Agent Jillian Manus, who spent several years as a development executive in the movie business, knows the importance of a pitch. She bought movie scripts solely on the basis of the writers' pitches, then turned around and pitched them to her production team. These days, the book publishing industry has also adopted the pitch as an essential sales tool. Writers who can't describe their work in four or five lines don't have a clear idea of what they are writing, Manus says.<br />
For fiction, Manus suggests dividing the pitch into three points: the setup, hook and resolution. For nonfiction, the title should convey the main concept of the book. Explain what the book is about, why you are qualified to write it, who will read it and what you can do to promote it.<br />
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Be Prepared</h3>
Agents and editors are not usually willing or able to carry your manuscript home with them, but if they are interested, they will take a brief written summary. Don't expect an agent or editor to read your synopsis while you wait. "I hate to read in front of someone because I can't think and read it simultaneously or well in that situation," says Laurie Harper of the Sebastian Literary Agency. "If you hand me a synopsis, still be able to just tell me in three minutes what it is. I'll take the synopsis with me and reread it later, but at the moment, it's more constructive to get a conversation going and rapport. Sell me on you and then the book you're doing. It is much more helpful to convince me of your talent, vision, commitment and ability and then hopefully about the book itself. In a short meeting, if I'm taken with the author, I'll follow up on the phone later and we'll get into the book stuff. If I'm not sold on you, it doesn't matter about the book because I won't take it further."<br />
Before the conference, it helps to do a little homework. Smith says he is impressed when a writer knows something about his agency and the writers it represents. At minimum, know whether the agent represents your kind of book. Don't pitch your adult thriller to an agent who handles only children's books. Know where your project falls in the marketplace. If it's fiction, is it a romance, a mystery, mainstream? Can you compare it to another published author's work? If it's nonfiction, who is the audience? What types of publishers are likely to buy it?<br />
Harper says authors must know about similar books that have been published and why theirs will be different. What category does it fall into, who are the readers and how will it fit into the market?<br />
If you don't have all of this information, perhaps you should wait until the next conference to pitch your book. If you're just starting to outline your nonfiction book or aren't sure how your novel will end, save the pitch until you know what you're pitching.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Conquer the Nerves</h3>
Nervous though you may be, don't tell the agent, "I'm so nervous. I'm not good at this."<br />
"I don't want to hear that stuff," Smith says. "What do you have that I can sell, that's it."<br />
Some writers can't bear the idea of pitching their work in person. They know they'll stutter and stumble. If you really can't do it, don't sign up for a pitch session. After all, as Smith says, "On paper's how we do most of our business."<br />
It is possible to send your material to the agent before the conference, but allow plenty of time in advance. Smith says he receives 250 submissions a month and 200-300 query letters. He may not have time to get to your manuscript before the conference. It might boil down to taking it on the plane and hoping he has time to read it. It's better to wait for the conference, where he is expecting to hear your pitch.<br />
You can certainly send a pitch to an agent after the conference instead of giving it in person, but sooner or later you'll have to do it verbally. Harper says, "I would encourage writers to try the verbal meeting, even if it doesn't go perfectly. Learn from it. Practice. Get comfortable talking to agents and get comfortable 'blurbing' your book."<br />
Manus believes that writers must conquer the butterflies and learn to pitch. After the book is sold, the author will be expected to talk about the book with editors and marketing people and to help publicize it when it comes out. Fiction writers might be able to hide behind the written word, but nonfiction authors must learn to pitch in person, she says.<br />
Anyone can memorize four lines, Manus adds. "You can blurt out those four lines and then that opens the door." Once the agent hears the basic idea, they can discuss it. "We're there to work as a team."<br />
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<h3>
Accept Criticism</h3>
One of the things authors fear in meeting agents and editors is criticism of their work, but that's part of the deal. "Nerves should be left at home," Manus says. "Writers should bring confidence and a willingness to accept criticism." It's the agent's or editor's responsibility to help them figure out what might be wrong with their proposal. Not everyone takes criticism gracefully. "I've had people leap over the table."<br />
Harper adds, "You have to want honest answers, even if it isn't what you want to hear. Professional feedback will help you get the book right for publication and success. If you act like you can't take the truth, the agent or editor will just give you an excuse and get away from you, and you'll be nowhere. The more you ask for candid, honest advice or feedback and demonstrate you can handle it maturely, the better information and real help you'll get."<br />
Malcolm Margolin, publisher of Heyday Books, says the thing he hates most at conferences is "neediness," writers who are looking to him to make all their dreams come true and can't take no for an answer. "I really don't like to be cornered or pushed. I'm particularly sensitive to someone who's practicing their assertiveness training on me."<br />
Margolin urges writers to approach publishers and agents as "co-professionals" who can work together for mutual benefit. He appreciates finding writers who know about his publishing house and present appropriate ideas. Arrive with an open mind and if the project is not right for him, "Allow everybody room to back off with dignity."<br />
Although a meeting may be scheduled for 10 minutes or longer, don't feel you have to fill the entire appointment time. The pitch has one purpose: to get your project read. "Once you've done that, you've done your job. You can feel a connection or not," Smith says. Don't stay after the meeting is over. Thank the agent and move on. Agents and editors at conferences often spend hours meeting with eager writers. A few quiet minutes to stretch, use the restroom or get a cup of coffee are a real blessing.<br />
<h3>
They're Just People</h3>
Remember that the agents and editors attending conferences are working through the weekend instead of relaxing with their families. They may enjoy conferences, but respect that they get tired, just like you. Smith is not averse to accepting a beer or a cup of coffee in exchange for a few minutes of informal talk, but don't monopolize his entire weekend.<br />
Manus, who attends an average of eight conferences a year, stresses that agents and editors go to conferences because they want to, even if they are not paid and have to give up their free time to do it. "They get as inspired by you as you do by them." She loves meeting new writers, seeing what they are writing, spotting trends. When talking to writers about their books, she hopes she can give the right advice. "We're as nervous as they are," she says.<br />
One mistake authors make, says Harper, is wanting "any agent." "Agents are usually all good at what they do, but they're good at different things. A writer does not want any agent; he or she wants the right match of agent for their book and category." It's better to have no agent than the wrong agent. In meeting agents, it is perfectly okay to ask agents about their activities or interests in a given category of books, she adds.<br />
"Authors tend to put agents on a pedestal, but the actual successful working relationship over the long haul is about the two of you working closely together as partners -- business partners," Harper says. "Your agent offers the market and publisher savvy, together with contracts and money, and the author offers the talent, writing ability and audience savvy. It takes both."<br />
Conference meetings are usually just a beginning, an in-person query. But they can lead to bigger things. If an agent or editor finds an author whose work matches what publishers are looking for, publication is almost guaranteed.<br />
What you have at a conference pitch session, Margolin says, is an introduction. This is not the place where deals are closed but an opportunity to find out if both parties want to take the next step.<br />
But it can be the beginning of something wonderful.<br />
If you don't speak up, you'll never know.Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-26666342996476364972014-07-01T19:47:00.000-07:002014-07-01T19:47:59.445-07:00The Difference Between Bad Writers and Good Writers by Jeff Goins<br />
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Lora; font-size: 22.1px; line-height: 31px; margin-bottom: 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
The difference between <a href="http://goinswriter.com/good-writer/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #dd3333; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="How to be a good writer">good writers</a> and bad writers has little to do with skill. It has to do with perseverance. Bad writers quit. Good writers keep going. That’s all there is to it.</div>
<div class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_3630" style="background: rgb(245, 245, 245); border: 0px; font-family: Lora; font-size: 17px; line-height: 26px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 10px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 580px;">
<a href="http://goinswriter.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/good-writers-and-bad-writers.jpg" style="background: transparent; color: #dd3333; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="Good writers keep going" class="size-medium wp-image-3630" height="380" src="http://goinswriter.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/good-writers-and-bad-writers-570x380.jpg" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Good writers keep going" width="570" /></a><div class="wp-caption-text" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; font-size: 14px; margin-top: 7px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-shadow: rgb(255, 255, 255) 1px 1px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Photo credit: Flickr (Creative Commons)</div>
</div>
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What good writers do</h3>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Lora; font-size: 17px; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Good writers practice.</strong> They take time to write, crafting and editing a piece until it’s just right. They spend hours and days, just revising.</div>
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Good writers take criticism on the chin and say “thank you” to helpful feedback; they listen to both the external and internal voices that drive them. And they use it all to make their writing better.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Lora; font-size: 17px; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
They’re resigned to the fact that first drafts suck and that the true mark of a champion is a commitment to the craft. It’s not about writing in spurts of inspiration. It’s about doing the work, day-in and day-out.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Lora; font-size: 17px; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Good writers can do this, because they believe in what they’re doing. They understand this is more than a profession or hobby. It’s a <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">calling</em>, a vocation.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Lora; font-size: 17px; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Good writers aren’t <a href="http://goinswriter.com/perfectionist-writer/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #dd3333; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Perfectionist writer">perfectionists</a>, but they’ve learned the discipline of <a href="http://goinswriter.com/shipping-a-seth-godin-ism/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #dd3333; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Shipping">shipping</a>, of putting their work out there for the world to see.</div>
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What bad writers don’t do</h3>
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<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Bad writers don’t understand this</strong>, which is precisely what <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">makes</em> them bad writers. They presume their writing has achieved a certain level of excellence, so they are closed off to the concept of editing or rewriting.</div>
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They can seem haughty, prideful, and arrogant. But really, it’s laziness and fear (mostly <a href="http://goinswriter.com/fear-art/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #dd3333; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Fear ">fear</a>).</div>
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Why don’t they edit? Why don’t they write ahead? Why do they give into the myth of the overnight genius? Because they’re afraid of putting the work in — and <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">failing</em>.</div>
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As a result, their work is scattered and disconnected, not nearly as good as they think.</div>
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How to be different</h3>
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A lot of decent writers think they’re <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">great</em>. I used to be one of those people. Stubborn and pig-headed, I didn’t want to change. I didn’t want to grow.</div>
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But I wasn’t that good.</div>
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When I ask people to rewrite a guest post or make suggestions on how to improve their writing, they get defensive. Or more often the case, I never hear from them again.</div>
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It is a rare occasion to I hear from a writer who asks for feedback and <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">means</em> it.</div>
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Many want to get together for coffee; few want to write.</div>
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A good writer is humble. Regardless of skill, she is committed to seeing the writing process through to completion. No matter how grueling or <a href="http://goinswriter.com/writing-is-hard/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #dd3333; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Writing is Hard">hard</a>, he will write. And she will get better.</div>
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So what can you — the aspiring writer with something to say — do?</div>
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Make a choice…</h3>
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Choose to be <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">different</em>. Keep going when others do not. Go the extra mile that most will not take. Be amazing by persevering.</div>
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Take the crap job that pays nothing. Offer to be someone’s understudy or apprentice. Put the hours in, pay your dues. It will pay off. But you will have to <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">work</em>.</div>
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Don’t coast on talent alone. Let it remind you of the responsibility you have to<em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">honor</em> your gift. And if you’re not that good, well here’s the good news: you <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">can</em> get better.</div>
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<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">You can outlast those who are lucky and out-work those who are lazy.</strong></div>
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This all begins with humility. Which really means a willingness to listen and change. To do the work and become a professional.</div>
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If you do this, if you take the time to make your work great by never <a href="http://goinswriter.com/are-you-satisfied/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #dd3333; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Are You Satisfied? (That May Not Be Enough)">settling for good enough</a>, it will make <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">all</em> the difference. So start persevering today.</div>
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<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">What do you think is the difference between good writers and bad write</strong></div>
Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-2042526890033644212014-06-30T08:53:00.000-07:002014-07-28T08:46:14.426-07:00Motivating Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What motivates you as a writer? Is it the people you come in contact with each day, or the lessons life teach you? or maybe it's the beauty of nature- the flowers in bloom or the rustling of the wind through the trees.<br />
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We are all motivated by something. What we choose to do with the motivation is the difference between the true writer and the procrastinator. Find your rhythm, don't be afraid to tap into it and move with it, just don't hear it and ignore it. Write, write and then write some more. Before you know it, you will have a page, before long, you will have a chapter, and if you really listen to the rhythm, you will have a book.<br />
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You never know what your words will do for someone who is just waiting to read them. Who knows, it could change a life.<br />
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What are you waiting for?Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-16686226234925158312014-06-26T09:45:00.000-07:002014-06-26T09:45:09.190-07:00What are you afraid of?<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BsNOM3l78lI/U6xMmZ-y1xI/AAAAAAAAAKs/mX7AIcqIfNI/s1600/fear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BsNOM3l78lI/U6xMmZ-y1xI/AAAAAAAAAKs/mX7AIcqIfNI/s1600/fear.jpg" height="200" width="173" /></a><br />
As I continue to meet people on this writing journey, there are many who have great stories, great story ideas, but are afraid to move forward in the venture. So I ask the question, "What are you afraid of?"<br />
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We all have some degree of fear, that's part of being human I think but is it holding you back from success? As writers I believe we have to stop and assess ourselves from time to time on our progress. Does it do anyone any good if you have all these manuscripts and no one ever reads them?<br />
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You have to tell yourself daily that you have a voice and it matters. That's part of an affirmation we use in our monthly meetings. It is hard to be vulnerable to the world,or your audience, but sometimes we have to look fear in the face and in spite of it continue to persevere.<br />
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<b>Four things to practice to overcome your fear of success in writing:</b><br />
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<li> Define it - Give it a name. Is it lack of self-esteem, fear of failure, self sabotage, etc. You can't deal with it if you don't know what it is.</li>
<li>Set a goal each day. Just one to start, then as you accomplish the goal add to it. You will eventually reach the ultimate goal.</li>
<li>Join a group of writers - You will get the support and encouragement you need to succeed.</li>
<li>Celebrate the Accomplishment- Whether it is completing your book, getting it edited, or even getting it published, you have overcome the thing that was holding you back to succeed.</li>
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We have to remember no man is an island. The more support you have on this journey, the more likely you are to succeed. At least once a year invest in yourself financially by attending a conference. You will get to see the fullness of it all when you do. It will encourage to dream bigger, be encouraged by others stories and their accomplishments.</div>
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The 2014 Queen City Writers Group's annual conference is scheduled for October 16th -18th. What better way to allay the fear than to get connected with a great group of writers.</div>
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What are you afraid of?</div>
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Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-88378805409098870042014-06-25T19:07:00.000-07:002014-06-25T19:07:10.867-07:00Are you writing everyday?<span style="background-color: white; color: #443f38; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #443f38; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Exercise the writing muscle every day, even if it is only a letter, notes, a title list, a character sketch, a journal entry. Writers are like dancers, like athletes. Without that exercise, the muscles seize up.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #443f38; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;" /><span style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; color: grey; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18.200000762939453px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">- Jane Yolen</span>Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-25092815239991779452014-06-25T09:14:00.000-07:002014-06-25T09:14:25.940-07:00Will you support a Cause?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ahIRy-qb9Vk/U6rzeQFWo4I/AAAAAAAAAKM/e0YOIDClVOE/s1600/breast-cancer-symbol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ahIRy-qb9Vk/U6rzeQFWo4I/AAAAAAAAAKM/e0YOIDClVOE/s1600/breast-cancer-symbol.jpg" height="128" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #454b54; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">In 2013, an estimated 232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer were expected to be diagnosed among US women. While the numbers are startling the survival rate continues to rise with early detection and treatment.</span></span><div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #454b54; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">One part of our focus for the 2014 Annual Conference is to spotlight survivors of this terrible disease. On Friday afternoon we will host a session to hear the stories of brave women who have overcome and are willing to share. We all know the importance of keeping a journal of our experiences for our personal healing, but to share these experiences with the world could be so beneficial to others.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #454b54;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;">As October is Breast Cancer Awareness month we ask that you s</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #454b54; line-height: 20px;">upport us in our efforts to help in the fight to continue to bring Awareness, help those in financial need, get information about prevention and learn the importance of self-examination.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #454b54; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">If you or someone you know have been affected by Breast Cancer and would like to get involved in this event either through volunteering or donating we welcome your participation.<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
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Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-17594069747475719152014-06-24T05:46:00.003-07:002014-06-24T05:46:35.851-07:00Are you a writer?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It seems everyone is a writer nowadays. That could be a good thing, because we all have stories to tell. Most people make the mistake of writing, self publishing and then learn the craft of writing, only to find out so many things they did wrong.<br />
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We all make mistakes. Mistakes are nothing more than an opportunity to learn and grow. The lesson from them is to do exactly that - learn and grow! Are you growing as a writer? Are you learning the craft?<br />
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The 2014 Queen City Writers Group Annual Conference could be a great place to start. Join fellow writers as they learn how to take their writing to the next level, through social media, pitching a book idea, how to write a book proposal, and more!<br />
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The Conference is power packed, affordable and waiting for you! Will you come?<br />
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<br />Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-33245478414385950302014-06-23T14:09:00.000-07:002014-06-23T14:09:44.521-07:00Why Attend the 2014 Queen City Writers Group Conference?Charlotte is the place to be this fall. The 2014 Annual conference is power packed and full of fun, excitement and more. <div>
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If you are a writer looking to advance your career or just wanting to know more about the field of writing, then spend October 16th-18th with us at the Hilton Executive Park.</div>
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The highlight of this year's conference is our Keynote Speakers: Robert Inman, Francene Marie, Cathy Pickens and Torry Martin.</div>
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<b>We also will have the following:</b></div>
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<li>Interactive workshops</li>
<li>Evening Bonus Features</li>
<li>Dinner and Awards Banquet</li>
<li>Breast Cancer Awareness and Fundraiser</li>
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And so much more!</div>
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Our early bird registration is going on now for $99.00.</div>
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Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-830214534291079794.post-48638288824676522092014-06-21T17:27:00.002-07:002014-06-23T13:09:00.228-07:002014 Queen City Writers Group Annual Conference<br />
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" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><u>Please Note:</u></b></span><br />
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If you received an email, post or any other form of communication that the 2014 Conference has been cancelled, Please disregard it. The conference is on and moving forward with great anticipation.</div>
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We apologize for any confusion and look forward to seeing you at the Conference!</div>
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Anytime Notary Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07245118851201804959noreply@blogger.com