Gingerbread men make me smile. I think they add a touch of whimsy to ordinary life. They never say a word, yet they tickle my funny bone. In fact, I collect them. The little fellows grace my laundry room walls and they come in various sizes. And…yes. I have borders to match. (If I must wash and iron, I think my little niche should convey …
I’m in editing mode so today’s post is a slight variation of one from last year. Enjoy! ****** When we’re “in the zone,” sometimes we can get so enamored with our writing that we neglect the one thing that will set us apart from other writers: our brand. Last year, I was privileged to hear Shannon Vannatter speak at a branding and marketing workshop while …
I’m a sucker for old movies. One of my favorites is Peyton Place, an oldie from the late 1950’s. Considered very risqué at the time, Peyton Place had it all: scandal, alcoholism, murder, and moral dilemmas. Not my typical fare, and perhaps somewhat cheesy by today’s standards, this is a classic example of superb storytelling. The film is narrated by “Allison …
What draws you to certain people? Is it a smile? A cheerful heart? An open demeanor? Is it that “indefinable something” that you can’t quite put your finger on? As you navigate through life, are you drawn to those who exude warmth and availability or do you prefer personalities that are a little more on the…um…chilly side? I think most …
Writers often find other writers’ styles intriguing. We marvel at their creative flair. Their tenacity inspires us. We’re impressed by their God-given ability. Often, we catch ourselves wondering why it seems so easy for them to connect the dots when we’re lost between scribbles. Why is it that some writers’ words seem to burst forth with color and finesse while ours tremble on …
I’ve always been a lover of the underdog. Social class holds no bearing. I cheer for the less fortunate. I’d rather encourage than cast aspersions. I believe my tendency to root for society’s “forgotten” influenced my decision to enter a helping profession many years ago. Seeing the invisible without regard to who they were, where they’d come from, or where others …
Last week I talked about research trips adding dimension to our writing. As writers, side trips away from our desks and computers aren’t just a fun way to “get away from it all.” These trips recharge our brains and fuel our creativity. When we see something besides the four walls of our offices or work spaces, we’re reminded that there is life …
We’ve all heard them. The sliver-tongued salesman who could sell snow to an Eskimo. Eloquent Eddie whose cookware “will last for life.” Sunshine Sally promising “youth in a bottle.” Guarantees and declarations abound. No product or topic is off-limits. Anything goes. Even at the risk of telling little white lies. Sadly, sacrificing integrity has become a way of life. And worse, it seems …
Anyone who knows me knows that I am a hopeless romantic. I tear up at Hallmark commercials. I appreciate gallantry. I adore a handmade card with a heartfelt sentiment. I am also deeply moved by: that tender kiss between those in love, handpicked wildflowers on a summer day, iced ribbons of moonlight that paint the night sky. When I write, I immerse …
I spent a good part of yesterday out and about with my sister. It’s always fun when I can combine research, writing, flea markets, and tea rooms, and quality time with loved ones. Since I spend much of my time in front of a computer screen, I’ve become more conscientious of factoring in “me” time/free time throughout my week. It’s the healthy thing …
