So... I have to admit that my enjoyment (perhaps it could be termed an addiction) to writing contests started at a young age. When I was 9 years old, I won a writing contest in my school district for an essay about Abraham Lincoln. What? Someone thinks I'm a good writer? Well, then, I must... Continue Reading →
Holidays & Traditions in World Building
Today is February 2nd. You know what that means. Groundhog Day! Every year, my husband is so excited to get to rewatch the cult classic movie. That's our Groundhog Day tradition. Maybe one year we'll actually go to Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania to experience the day in style and in person. Anyway, let's be honest that this... Continue Reading →
Worst Writing Advice I Ever Got
Worst writing advice I ever got? Honestly, this is a hard question because if someone is giving it as advice, it's because that tip worked for them, or is a standard for most, if not all, writers. For me, just like in most life situations, there is no BAD advice. There is advice that is... Continue Reading →
Cheat Sheet for Great Beginnings
Beginnings and endings are my favorite parts of books to write. Not just because with one I am starting a new exciting journey and the other I'm finally crossing the finish line. Endings we'll talk about another time, but beginnings... Beginnings I love because I get to use a relatively small amount of real estate... Continue Reading →
Writing Rituals
This week we're talking about writing rituals in the blog challenge. The thing is... I don't think I have one I use consistently. I don't rub a statue or blow kisses to the writing gods or open things in a certain order. I don't have lucky socks or have to talk to my mom before... Continue Reading →
Best (Recent) Writer Advice… #MFRWAuthor Blog Challenge
Isn't it funny how the right advice comes along just when you need it? Kind of like when you learn a word you'd never heard before, and suddenly you hear it everywhere?ย There are piles of advice I've received over the years as a writer that I could list here. But if I did, I'd be... Continue Reading →
When I’m Not Writing… #MFRWAuthor Blog Challenge
I would love to say that when I'm not writing I have a life. But that would be a lie. Sort of. I have my wonderful family, so frequently any time not spent on writing/books in some form or fashion is spent with them. My kids are at that stage where it's constant activities, homework,... Continue Reading →
Using Personal Stories in My Books
Every single book I write has a little bit of me in it. Pull from what you know, right? More often than not it's things like sneaking Star Wars in, or an expression I use a lot. But sometimes I use personal stories to help me bring my characters, settings, or situations to life. Some... Continue Reading →
