tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22260200378686175722024-02-21T09:13:11.200-08:00Pen NoirCandid thoughts on life, publishing, and everything in between. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-78298064877992438122016-05-21T17:43:00.000-07:002016-05-21T17:43:47.187-07:00Been ThereSo I had a great idea for a book called "Been There" and it would be full of advice for college, high school and young adults into their 30s. So much I would love to share with this big, beautiful, and sometimes frighteningly bright (sunscreen as needed) world. <div>
Anyhow, that got me thinking. What would you find most helpful? If you could tell your past self anything, what would it be? For me, it would be embrace the pain. Scars are the evidence of surviving what others have failed. Therefore, I should love myself as I am. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-5037156155976183262016-05-19T16:50:00.001-07:002016-05-19T16:53:10.134-07:00As You AreI was challenged today in ways I never expected. Sure it began normal, but my own inner struggles destroyed what would have been a great day and made it unbearably hard. Then, I saw something on Facebook that just struck me, and I wanted to do the same for any of my readers that are having a bad day, like I did. So, here it goes...Don't know who out there needs this, but whoever you are, this post is for you.<br />
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Sometimes it's hard to imagine someone as fabulous and wonderful as you, can feel utterly depleted and tired. Wasted and even depressed. Things can be going great all day and suddenly there is that pesky gloom and doom inside your head again. Maybe, you just saw an otherwise innocuous picture and it triggered a land slide of sorrows that you thought you already dealt with. Perhaps, you were fine, dandy even, then "that" person messages or called. It could be that you just suddenly felt useless and that all your efforts had been wasted on meaningless things or people. Or, maybe you just can't put your finger on it, but you're upset. Feeling downtrodden. Exhausted; at the end of your rope and ready to tie a knot, but not to hang on. You know what I mean. And do you know what else I know?...this post is for you. </div>
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This post is for you; for you to know that no matter where you've come from, regardless of what you've dealt and are dealing with, and despite your failures and mistakes...you are loved. You may stop me here and get emotional or even tune me out; how can I know without knowing you? Who am I, that I can say someone loves you...what right do I have to speak to you?bor, I just don't know how bad you are, once I did I would understand that no one could love you. </div>
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Well, it may seem or be hard to accept, impossible maybe to believe. But <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">without meeting you, without knowing your color, your country, your religion, or your preferences...I love you. I may not have seen your face, but I know what you face. All that anxiety and depression, that hurt and pain, that fear and weight, I carry it too. And I love you for carrying it with me. Through the bonds of common suffering and the comradery that it builds, I've gotten to know you. And that dread, regret, and terror you can't seem to escape no matter how hard, how fast, or how much you try...I am trying to escape it too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">So don't do anything for the next ten second, ten minutes, or ten hours; whatever it takes to settle the turmoil you're feeling. Just remember you are loved. And I may go so far as to say you are loved by many more people than you know or believe. I am one of them. So don't give up. Don't ever, ever give up. </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-73806740158102572482016-05-12T18:12:00.000-07:002016-05-12T18:12:11.394-07:00Disney Villain CostumeI found my Disney Ultra Villain costume. It's edgy, yet so much of it is amazing I could literally see myself wearing this 24-7. What does your inner villain look like? <div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpLw3Tzp362u_nhEbZ3GRh_0J3VPzYhHc34hd2oYQmP54b7dBi6xRkcXByu5_MncFAxq6YZ4oE1FDbCKiZJKGp8cCBuyK3SI8P8vGWTCz3dr4Pg94QDHowY2xn2qaROWwQaMOyDJw6m4Rq/s1600/peacock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpLw3Tzp362u_nhEbZ3GRh_0J3VPzYhHc34hd2oYQmP54b7dBi6xRkcXByu5_MncFAxq6YZ4oE1FDbCKiZJKGp8cCBuyK3SI8P8vGWTCz3dr4Pg94QDHowY2xn2qaROWwQaMOyDJw6m4Rq/s640/peacock.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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For the history and source of the picture click <a href="https://anamericaninantwerp.com/2014/07/11/momu-birds-of-paradise/" target="_blank">here</a>!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-9916693885506100692016-05-11T19:33:00.001-07:002016-05-11T19:33:14.758-07:00Highland MistHaven't written in far too long. "Blithe" would somewhat describe my attitude towards the subject over the past few months. However, I just had a transitory moment...and it all started by seeing the highland mist of Scotland. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbxjWTZfBJQ1qFjzwCoCNbaCBtChgyGbxxcF7ZVW7phhG86mOfOnRihbjaaPnRo_RKyyMmTpYQ71Hetar9-CmPYwNof3RR6KefNdfuAIepJcgKZjG2QQ6HlDe491LGWDVZsFjSBz7y9JcZ/s640/blogger-image-1330263143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbxjWTZfBJQ1qFjzwCoCNbaCBtChgyGbxxcF7ZVW7phhG86mOfOnRihbjaaPnRo_RKyyMmTpYQ71Hetar9-CmPYwNof3RR6KefNdfuAIepJcgKZjG2QQ6HlDe491LGWDVZsFjSBz7y9JcZ/s640/blogger-image-1330263143.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> (Image from Google)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">When mist caps off the mountains,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And tides put out to sea;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">When aye a laugh will echo down</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The craggy clefts to me...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Then he'll come a'running</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A firebrand in 'is hand,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">An' all the village 'ill see 'im </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The Scourge of En'my land.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A man of boar and barrel,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Brave an' broad as brim,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">An' all the village a'watchin' </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Watchin' now for 'im.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The days crawl on to nightfall, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">An' night folds into morn,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So I go on a'livin,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Though my bones be worn.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">U'til that far off moment </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">When the hills 'ill feel 'is stride,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'll wait forever faithful,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">'is Bonnie Lass and Bride. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-69813739663343824332015-08-23T18:42:00.001-07:002015-08-23T19:18:59.967-07:00Music(x)Writing=Magic Have you ever wondered what it would be like to see words instead of music notes? I think that's the most intriguing part about music; it stirs in our minds images and wonder associated with each note. I often write with music, I would say- except for academia and poems- I cannot write without it. My writing is like a game, trying to match each syllable with each note of the song. I often listen to Pandora, Secret Garden station or Enya. Sometimes Within Temptation is good too. (But this is for Adrian Von Ziegler's music. Brilliant Composer that he is.)<br />
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I invite you to do a quick exercise with me.<br />
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1. Click on this link: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Gj7Fq42AE0">AVZ-Bone Temple</a> 2. As it plays in the background read this story below. (I understand people read at different speeds, so this may be a little fast or slow for you, try and feel with the music.)<br />
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The firelight burnt low and deep embers cast shadows far too large for their own power. Long trails of warriors sat around the glowing orbs to watch the Mage of the West perform. Her hair flowing about in black streams, swayed with the exotic motions of her body as a she stepped into the dim light. Turning and throwing her arms into the air she began the long awaited Telling Ritual. The flute notes seemed to carry her limber frame into a surreal world where fluidity met flesh. The Rite of War was about to be decided.<br />
Her bare feet clung to the dusty earth with power and grace as her satin skin rippled with the strength and power of each step. Rolling her shoulders and extending her limbs, the lithe body seemed to live within the notes of the song that played out the ritual she had learned almost from birth. Turning in the air, she pleaded with the heavenly powers of her land to give wisdom to her dance. The waving veils and sultry steps she took all told of a coming war, but the victor was yet to be decided.<br />
Two sons of the late Cheif sat with leering gazes, wagering among each other how they would divide the spoils of their conquest. Including which would take the Mage to wife and claim her inheritance and the rebels of the West that followed her. The dance meant little to their untrained, and warmongering eyes. They could not see the secret message amid the turns and bows, the deadly orders in her twisting and prostration. Her art was little more to them than rakish tradition that satisfied the Warriors' more primal urges. Women had been scarce for months.<br />
As the Mage wove in and out of the shadowy glow of the fire, every male was transfixed waiting for her to reappear and to show dexterity and grace. She represented the only variable left in this dreaded war of clans. Whoever possessed her, owned all the lands and peoples of the West. Jumping out from the ebony vale of darkness her ivory skin flashed and dazzled the men. Turning in place her motions did not distract the men from seeing a larger more daring presence invade her space. Matching her steps, the hooded man bore the royal <span style="background-color: #f8d4d3;">crest </span>of the late chief, and his tartan wore he like a badge of honor. His bare arms adorned with blood soaked straps, the phantom appeared to be the resurrected corpse of the late chief. But years younger, and plenty more fierce.<br />
In white horror and fear, the two sons gaped as the ghost pursued the young Mage with savage intent. Fleeing and being drawn in all at once the woman bent to the will of the specter her dance had conjured. He stocked her shivering frame and took hold of her left arm.With controlled force, he made her steps align with his. Her tiny frame shadowed by his mass, she had no defense against his onslaught. The late chief had conquered the Lady of the West and her beating breast was perfectly in sync with his.<br />
As the fatal dance began to move through the ranks, the sons of the chief dared not move for fear the judging eyes of their father would find them and convict them of their coup. The twin brothers marveled in wonder as the two danced side by side; intimate and daring. They were powerless to touch the Mage for the entire realm of the West would rise to consume them. And their father, how could he be still alive, still virile, and bold? They watched, frozen as if by magic, as the young woman was wooed before them. Her hair tangled in the phantom's hands, her eyes clinging to his, her legs matching his step. From the eyes of the crowd, it was difficult to say who had control of the ritual anymore, way it the Mage or her Master? So inspired was their fear, they took no notice of the cloaked assassins moving throughout the ranks of their trembling men. Silent, like shadows, fluid as the music, the rebels of the West slipped into the dance unnoticed and began their grizzly work. Matched with the beat of the earthy drum, the bodies fell, and still the sons noticed not their fate was already decided. The path carved through the ranks and led the dance of death right to the dais the traitors sat upon.<br />
With wide eyes, they paled in horror as the hooded phantom drew a long blade from the Mage's own belt. Their mouths clamped silent with the powerful spell they could only reel in agony as the legendary blade dispatched them into an agonizing, slow death. The brothers could only grimace as they were cast to the ground at the foot of the thrown. With his feet upon their back, the specter removed his hood and ordered the dance to stop. His late Chieftain was at last avenged.<br />
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END<br />
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Ok, so that was a little intense. Honestly, I think I got a little carried away in that one. That was actually really dark. Sorry!! But I hope you see my point. Writing with music can help enhance your work and make it more fluid.<br />
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I want to challenge you all, pick a theatrical song (easier without lyrics) and write a completely new and uninterrupted story with it. Not only is it great creative practice, it can make for some amazing stories later on. And once you're done, share it. Let the world experience that song through your writing.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-23256316467574934202015-08-21T16:56:00.000-07:002015-08-21T16:56:09.001-07:00Serious LaughEver need that serious laugh? Today I did, and thanks to cartoonstock.com I found it.<br />
Best one of the day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WCtNjxAPp6y-45aAONXkIN2BljtFw-3bhttWlTOO2Y-SDbGY_PBJ4_ZedxebeuURjInlV-8Lkgtp_CbjR_By1mjrPnTkv3iSmhNo0KxPFH2yKVjZLyP4jSyZJCaW4oLawikjKpWqLOk7/s1600/cartoon1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WCtNjxAPp6y-45aAONXkIN2BljtFw-3bhttWlTOO2Y-SDbGY_PBJ4_ZedxebeuURjInlV-8Lkgtp_CbjR_By1mjrPnTkv3iSmhNo0KxPFH2yKVjZLyP4jSyZJCaW4oLawikjKpWqLOk7/s1600/cartoon1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-72373800413067068682015-08-19T20:15:00.000-07:002015-08-19T20:15:20.124-07:00Seasons of Inspiration: How I Beat Summer Depression. <div style="text-align: center;">
My ideal weather is snow.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBoG3czAW2YRHda8WYqYi_p5ID408bZcN89R0gR0TtYX__-l_wW9pf8UnWN3wzGcGYHojBxnZ1PN6mAvfqKYhAB3RC9b1iHe8elrtgMfhkqdXO2-HQTUDCNufeZrpDPujqWaxoOWFFp__D/s1600/snow+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBoG3czAW2YRHda8WYqYi_p5ID408bZcN89R0gR0TtYX__-l_wW9pf8UnWN3wzGcGYHojBxnZ1PN6mAvfqKYhAB3RC9b1iHe8elrtgMfhkqdXO2-HQTUDCNufeZrpDPujqWaxoOWFFp__D/s200/snow+5.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Snow,</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1y5JjbfkYyB3FEvztZ6hJ7oTTrkzSITPxf84hbtRwbmLaQGDlE4OAmpV9zMuN0LwFEW5sJ3q16sodeBJAbfLsr6Mtl8E3Ev93GdXT3jeK03lpkSaJURfdXopP0KcSc6zf7epeceKxGr49/s1600/snow3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1y5JjbfkYyB3FEvztZ6hJ7oTTrkzSITPxf84hbtRwbmLaQGDlE4OAmpV9zMuN0LwFEW5sJ3q16sodeBJAbfLsr6Mtl8E3Ev93GdXT3jeK03lpkSaJURfdXopP0KcSc6zf7epeceKxGr49/s1600/snow3.jpg" /></a></div>
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Snow, </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXQ3k7hl8MfVl_e_SRgB2iODpWU7VOIu14kRE0wupXWqEdh6yWmagnp4hu4rEFB1B5fuz_gh-a34q7SZeeLMb-IVaGVCFs1FveSdrbI7tCGa61ThM5FBYY5MJ4yIrQAcysSmRytkQy0o5n/s1600/snow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXQ3k7hl8MfVl_e_SRgB2iODpWU7VOIu14kRE0wupXWqEdh6yWmagnp4hu4rEFB1B5fuz_gh-a34q7SZeeLMb-IVaGVCFs1FveSdrbI7tCGa61ThM5FBYY5MJ4yIrQAcysSmRytkQy0o5n/s1600/snow1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Snow,</div>
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Snow,</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBMao7Xnzf4l_DH2-kFtzi7nij3fhruVYd08vjzZAdIkS3M-5eJi6VTZ_cn7e0bGxTIY_jEmG5RDoN1edmnfezkiPD5nub4NoUcpcuy1-7C9vbn1w6dW135-cxSpD1_y8bl04LhYERBtq/s1600/snow4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBMao7Xnzf4l_DH2-kFtzi7nij3fhruVYd08vjzZAdIkS3M-5eJi6VTZ_cn7e0bGxTIY_jEmG5RDoN1edmnfezkiPD5nub4NoUcpcuy1-7C9vbn1w6dW135-cxSpD1_y8bl04LhYERBtq/s320/snow4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Snow!</span></div>
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Think of a wonderful, warm fireplace with a few logs burning away slowly while you are curled on the couch with a fluffy blanket. Maybe you have a cup of hot tea or coco- or in my editor's case a double scotch on the rocks- but most assuredly there is, in your possession, your favorite book and adequate writing implements just within reach (like every other square inch of your house.) Ok. So image in mind, hold it right there; now think of the abundance of inspiration that can bring. The Surplus of production!! Then imagine a wasteland of heat and blistering death. That's not very creative. It's not even fun. It's actually depressive. The overabundance of sunlight and sun-worshipers that I am forced to put up with over summer is enough to drive my liver into cirrhosis...as if it wasn't already there... from birth. Here is what I do when I am at the beach. I wear my ultra UV proof sunscreen, a full cover-up, hat, and glasses; then I bring my umbrella and lawn chair and sit watching everyone else cook like bacon on a skillet. Then once the sun sets and everyone's home, I actually begin to enjoy the atmosphere and the water. The sun is ridiculously draining for me. I can't enjoy it. Actually, I do enjoy it. From behind heavily tinted windows, paintings, and cheap travel postcards. That's how I enjoy it.<br />
So needless to say I am becoming creative and happy in the fall then absolutely unstoppable in the winter. But, that only last like two months total in this blasted state. So for the next two months I am coming down from a high in spring and then the rest of the eight months of the year I am totally depressed. Summers in FLORIDA are an absolute killer. I die. And then I revive at night to die again with the sunrise.<br />
I've been pushing to blog more and trying to get my life set on a schedule. But this ridiculous summer thing has been going on since January. So if you want to know how I beat the severe depression that I face in the summer...I don't. I wait it out by promising myself this year's winter will be longer and much better than last. Since drinking isn't a tradition writer's relief I can oft indulge- Slurpees are my Achille's Heel that and they are frozen.<br />
Thinking about how unproductive I have been this summer got me thinking. It would be really fun to see what actually inspires people to create and be productive and conversely, what kind of external things depress them. For me add bananas to the list, right underneath endless summers. I thrive under deadlines, cold weather, and as far, far away from bananas as possible.<br />
But, what makes you, personally feel productive and happy? Is it being appreciated, hearing a happy song, seeing the person you love...? I am really curious. I would love to hear from people to understand who you are and what makes you create your masterpieces? And, how you beat the heat during your season of depression (seriously it doesn't have to be summer, I realize I am more of a vampire than most. Some people get depressed when they see anything white and fluffy- just as a resident of SouthEast Boston.)<br />
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So hit me with your thoughts, comments, and complaints.<br />
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-Vera Lynn<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(All pictures courtesy of google images)</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-21268073218870247442015-05-22T00:24:00.001-07:002015-05-22T00:41:04.935-07:00Heart to Heal<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyjbNModi4Se9yJo9TLsbvroCtRW7LcmvlVQzKT_gWoiYppijYrS3K6mELwrRxWUit2T2TJmf5mwhMZQIbxMNUOwDVer6sKOyM_AoMqubIsXwQEjaCNLSYvaFXg75zl7wph6h6GBP-MTk/s640/blogger-image-1272768337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyjbNModi4Se9yJo9TLsbvroCtRW7LcmvlVQzKT_gWoiYppijYrS3K6mELwrRxWUit2T2TJmf5mwhMZQIbxMNUOwDVer6sKOyM_AoMqubIsXwQEjaCNLSYvaFXg75zl7wph6h6GBP-MTk/s640/blogger-image-1272768337.jpg"></a></div>A wise man once compared love to a thrashing floor where the hard shell around your heart is beaten until the sheath breaks away. No matter how many layers you've been through, love finds new ways to reform you each and every day. Whether it's a new crack appearing in the tough husk you didn't think you had or the chaff separating for the first time and you're trying desperately to breathe after the shock...love will reform you with each breath if you let it. <div>It's not wrong to feel threatened by the change, it's your choice to allow it, but until you've touched the pain you won't have any knowledge of the joys gained with the growth in your life when you allow it. Emotions are frightening, the thought of a heart being taken to the thrashing floor of love sounds immensely painful, but life cannot have love without feelings. And pain is one of them.</div><div>To be hurt by loving could mean a number of things. It could be a dream you must let go, a trial in your relationship, a mutual loss, a betrayal, a falling away, a falling out...it could be anything you're afraid of or that one thing you overlooked...regardless of what it is, if you love it will hurt. </div><div>But if there is one thing we can take comfort in, it's the fact that we are only human. We don't have to carry the burden of diety and angels, we can experience life as we were born into this world: human. Without unfairly judging eachother for struggles or holding a double standard. Humanity means we all have emotions and feelings, no matter how we try and deny them and to understand the emotions and feelings of others leaves our lives perhaps in more pain but richer for it. Perhaps in more confusion but deeper loved for it. No matter your situation in life; your religion; your personal struggles; or your personal achievements; never become so logical that you forget how to feel or so bitter that you can't touch the heart of others with compassion. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfmr-5RO5OAMO_4gsuuXRTkYTa2wPxmPDcCx9J67v_vq_2L17pkBU8MtiaicOJRCkU6rYVu_cCVM6Kv3hxZUEd62emL8n0smZo-by3PgURUew35JTKtV0ULfQRGzSMJyyAbkdMk-dUVkr4/s640/blogger-image-118587621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfmr-5RO5OAMO_4gsuuXRTkYTa2wPxmPDcCx9J67v_vq_2L17pkBU8MtiaicOJRCkU6rYVu_cCVM6Kv3hxZUEd62emL8n0smZo-by3PgURUew35JTKtV0ULfQRGzSMJyyAbkdMk-dUVkr4/s640/blogger-image-118587621.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The Prophet: Kahlil Gibran</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">On love- </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">When love beckons to you, follow him,<br>Though his ways are hard and steep.<br>And when his wings enfold you yield to him,<br>Though the sword hidden among his pinions may wound you.<br>And when he speaks to you believe in him,<br>Though his voice may shatter your dreams<br>as the north wind lays waste the garden. <br><br>For even as love crowns you so shall he crucify you. Even as he is for your growth so is he for your pruning.<br>Even as he ascends to your height and caresses your tenderest branches that quiver in the sun,<br>So shall he descend to your roots and shake them in their clinging to the earth. <br><br>Like sheaves of corn he gathers you unto himself.<br>He threshes you to make you naked.<br>He sifts you to free you from your husks.<br>He grinds you to whiteness.<br>He kneads you until you are pliant;<br>And then he assigns you to his sacred fire, that you may become sacred bread for God's sacred feast. <br><br>All these things shall love do unto you that you may know the secrets of your heart, and in that knowledge become a fragment of Life's heart. <br><br>But if in your fear you would seek only love's peace and love's pleasure,<br>Then it is better for you that you cover your nakedness and pass out of love's threshing-floor,<br>Into the seasonless world where you shall laugh, but not all of your laughter, and weep, but not all of your tears.<br>Love gives naught but itself and takes naught but from itself.<br>Love possesses not nor would it be possessed;<br>For love is sufficient unto love. <br><br>When you love you should not say, "God is in my heart," but rather, "I am in the heart of God."<br>And think not you can direct the course of love, for love, if it finds you worthy, directs your course. <br><br>Love has no other desire but to fulfill itself.<br>But if you love and must needs have desires, let these be your desires:<br>To melt and be like a running brook that sings its melody to the night.<br>To know the pain of too much tenderness.<br>To be wounded by your own understanding of love;<br>And to bleed willingly and joyfully.<br>To wake at dawn with a winged heart and give thanks for another day of loving;<br>To rest at the noon hour and meditate love's ecstasy;<br>To return home at eventide with gratitude;<br>And then to sleep with a prayer for the beloved in your heart and a song of praise upon your lips.</span></div><div><br></div><div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirzN4DaPBStfPnsK54ZUptM4LxsjRYregIGw_tZPhfvcRWIDPpQGajEx8JHoj4jWwiyguN7EFxXlw3KfrlPxzuuetYqGI_R5J7i9OsjJWRW0TDa0iUO_tDfoJzOkK4LBTLhaRAQb8CpM7_/s640/blogger-image--1720530431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirzN4DaPBStfPnsK54ZUptM4LxsjRYregIGw_tZPhfvcRWIDPpQGajEx8JHoj4jWwiyguN7EFxXlw3KfrlPxzuuetYqGI_R5J7i9OsjJWRW0TDa0iUO_tDfoJzOkK4LBTLhaRAQb8CpM7_/s640/blogger-image--1720530431.jpg"></a></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-39917810062722968412015-03-02T13:15:00.001-08:002015-03-02T13:22:54.364-08:00Gush Post- Hobby LobbyOk, is it just me or is the store Hobby Lobby the greatest thing ever?! I've been every week since my sister first showed me the magic not so long ago. It's a phenominal store with a phenominal business philosophy. <div>I have decorated my room and office with their items and I have to say it feels more vintage than ever before. I just love the styles they have. But even moreso I love the selections and the fact they aren't afraid to be who they are- period. So props to Hobby Lobby and their amazing store! </div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSXQNDdF7Yo_IMeZChiV7ZNvPPnc3AvjMG84kXrL1SUXaKriObodf5P4jfZU7rkPKbcpos_rISnPR7LcXpEHifE1Gxkk7b2m0cT0C6tZDxitsHt-HUFv7ycL3SG9iRQK6VMEmfUbpBjbf5/s640/blogger-image--1462765462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSXQNDdF7Yo_IMeZChiV7ZNvPPnc3AvjMG84kXrL1SUXaKriObodf5P4jfZU7rkPKbcpos_rISnPR7LcXpEHifE1Gxkk7b2m0cT0C6tZDxitsHt-HUFv7ycL3SG9iRQK6VMEmfUbpBjbf5/s640/blogger-image--1462765462.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTgP3PUC5LbTH_VwI9NlcKaNHm16UJ1A78TQqS8VgE4r08qYfr5x59mfwusaEZ6bPzJeXuUalBkklwUO1UaxfbXNdPx1zyRy0NmtafEdlgmBTAQHfePYY9bt6wyRec7H7qwLHpJhyphenhyphenPamNi/s640/blogger-image-1431101202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTgP3PUC5LbTH_VwI9NlcKaNHm16UJ1A78TQqS8VgE4r08qYfr5x59mfwusaEZ6bPzJeXuUalBkklwUO1UaxfbXNdPx1zyRy0NmtafEdlgmBTAQHfePYY9bt6wyRec7H7qwLHpJhyphenhyphenPamNi/s640/blogger-image-1431101202.jpg"></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-5275625180956389642015-02-28T16:38:00.002-08:002015-02-28T16:38:43.029-08:00Book Proposals and How You Too Can Write Like A Pro!<i>NEWS: There is nothing worse to a writer than to have to endure the loss of a medium of communication. Since October 2014, I was up a DEEP creak without a boat or paddle. Not only did my computer crash, it killed my hard drive, fried every useful part of the computer and I lost over 50,000 words to my newest novel! The research was gone and my backup was plugged in when I got the virus and I lost that too! So needless to say the whole year ended horrible and 2015 started off amazing because I received a new laptop from a very dear friend.</i><br />
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Now on 2/28/15, I've caught up in work and writing. So I wanted to bring to your attention a few points about my latest project and hopefully help a few fledgling writers out. Book Proposals. That's right, I am entering the scary bigs now and have to write a winning proposal that promotes the purity and idiosyncratic nature of my work, while using math and science EEEK! Or it would be EEEK if I hadn't already know exactly what is needed.<br />
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So here is the breakdown of a decent book proposal and how I decided to go about it. First there are two main categories, you and your book.<br />
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You:<br />
A brief biography that highlights your skills, talents, education, and prior publications.<br />
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Your Book: a synopsis no more than two paragraphs, final estimated word count, estimated completion date, description of target audience, description and information on sales market, list of comparable and competing titles and what makes your book better than them, a few sample chapters: 1-3 are usually the best, a complete table of contents with chapter outlines.. and complete means complete.<br />
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So lets tackle the most important part first, YOU. Yes, believe it or not YOU are the most important aspect of your work even though as a writer you don't feel that way. The brief biography is your chance to show creative writing skills and display talents. Did you win an elementary school competition in poetry? Mention it. Did you study writing in AP or college classes? Mention it! Whatever ties you to the art of the written word package it with your personality and jazz it up with your own wonderful angle. The better you sell yourself, the easier it will be to sell your work.<br />
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Now on to science, math, and a whole lot of technical blah blah blah. Lets start with the synopsis. Use one or two well crafted paragraphs to sum up your story and don't worry about reveling the surprise ending, that could be a major selling point you will miss out on if you don't mention it. So repeat with me now: MENTION IT! The estimated word count and completion date are for people who are published, if you aren't published then complete your manuscript and use your actual completion date and word count and let the editorial staff know that it is finished, that's a selling point. <br />
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Step two, requires research in many fields. You need to find at least three, well selling books that are comparable competition to yours. Find out who buys them, how many are sold per annum, and what makes them sell. Plot, connection to real world events, good photos, all the juicy bits. Know them well. Now you know based on the competition who your audience is. Next compile your research into three professional and informative sections. 1. Your assessment and description of your target audience and why they will buy from you. Use that as a platform into speaking about the market for your product which is section 2. And that segways into section 3, the list of comparable titles and why your book is different and AMAZING. Remember highlight where they fall short and you have come behind to succeed.<br />
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Step three, end your proposal on a solid positive and professional note. Thank them for taking precious time to review your work and let them know you want to work with them, that's why you chose to contact them.<br />
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Step four, attach the COMPLETED table of contents and chapter outlines and first three chapters of your book.<br />
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Step five, rewrite it all.<br />
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Step six, edit and rewrite again<br />
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Step seven, have a knowledgeable writer and business person look it over.<br />
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Step eight, follow their feedback and rewrite<br />
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Step nine, make sure every last letter and punctuation mark is perfect and properly placed. Then and ONLY then should you send off your proposal via email or snail mail however they require. <br />
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Remember each organization has different requirements. Follow their guidelines and use mine as a filler if you see something that is useful that they might have left to your discretion.<br />
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If you would like any help or tips please comment below and I would be happy to assist in anyway I can. It is my person philosophy that competition is healthy and a good writer is a good writer even if that means I sell less. I would love to help you promote your work of art as being competitive in a tight and brutal market. I want all who have a desire to be a writer to see that dream realized and fulfilled.<br />
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Thanks for stopping by and stay classy!<br />
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<i>Vera Lynn- "Realizing the impossible together." </i><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-63979980493140023222014-11-24T14:55:00.001-08:002014-11-24T15:19:39.050-08:00Heart Healthy Business Often times we hear about how to make healthy food choices and exercise right so we can protect our hearts. A major problem here in America and around the world, heart disease affects millions and decreases your life span. Many people call it the silent killer, slowly choking your heart until a major event like atrial fibrillation. It can happen through body changes or it lies lurking in your DNA, taking advantage of circumstances like poor food intake and dehydration.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">This is a deeply personal issue to me, it has cut short the lifespan of four of my relatives and leaves many more still closely monitored by medicines and doctor visits. As of this weekend, heart disease has struck another family member taking him and his pysicians by surprise. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">That's why I would like to reach out to everyone and warn about the levels of your personal stress. Whether its a small business owner/partner or a writer, a single parent or a student...everyone has to worry about something. It's human nature. </span><br />
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There are many things to do about stress, check out my older post called Funny Business, dealing with ways to be creative and stress less. Finding things to do about stress is how you manage it, but you have to know about stress to treat it. Women tend to recognize they are stressed waaaaaay before men do. (That's not just my opinion btw) That is, I am sure, at least a small contributing factor as to why men struggle with heart disease more than women. That doean't leave women off the hook, we all have to watch out for stress.<br />
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Running a heart healthy small business practice is the best way to ensure you can minimize stress for you. Heart healthy business should be mindful of many stressors including:<br />
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1. Admit you have stress (everyone experiences stress, even Jesus, so don't try and tell me you're good or ok!) Identify what punches your buttons and deal with managing that first.<br />
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2. Overworking- if you work for "the man" you have a time card. Don't be chained to a format, but if you're putting in lots of overtime, find a way to give yourself a real break. Make time for it!<br />
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3. You're in charge- being "the man" is a great stress relief, but it comes with the burden of well, being in charge. You are the person who gets the credit and the accountability. It's tough how to treat this type of stress, but my best advice is talk to other business savy individuals. This small business community on google + is great. Ask advice, so if in the sad event you experience disappointment, you won't experience regret. You will know that the best informed choice was made at the time.<br />
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4. Connectivity- staying constantly connected to the world of your business is stressful on you and your family. If a date, vacation, or meal is on the table don't talk about business or engross yourself in your mobile devices. Disconnect and increase your endorphins (which lower stress) by enjoying special time with special people.<br />
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5. Deadlines- as the big cheese you can set and expand your expectations at will. Don't add stress to you business and your life by letting you expectations run wild. Learn to manage your deadlines, priorities and expectations.<br />
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These are just my thoughts and my ideas that I have seen work for friends, family, and myself. Don't end up on the "overly stressed and under medicated" list. If you can manage your stress you are one step closer to a healthy heart and a happier you.<br />
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<i>This does not replace talking to your PCP and getting screened for heart disease and other heart related issues. Know where you stand and move forward informed. </i><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-16907166807242267402014-10-27T10:59:00.001-07:002014-10-27T10:59:06.253-07:00A Picture is Worth 1000 Words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhyRIeC0g0muwspYGccEE3i5rCYi-JARSZc8-mNDJCtRabaNTYVGTbyt2s7vLwIYIJoMoXunGw9A4Cl0H_GANN92IPH1NUSEQYV80Tq95bPVjZZFlcaQ4H8CfGR4Q4cWegwuZbPVf-DJ9/s1600/death.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhyRIeC0g0muwspYGccEE3i5rCYi-JARSZc8-mNDJCtRabaNTYVGTbyt2s7vLwIYIJoMoXunGw9A4Cl0H_GANN92IPH1NUSEQYV80Tq95bPVjZZFlcaQ4H8CfGR4Q4cWegwuZbPVf-DJ9/s1600/death.jpg" height="406" width="640" /></a></div>
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I was looking for an inspirational picture and this is what I first saw...I am NOT sure how I feel about this, but I know I am not inspired. Hehe *looks over shoulder nervously*Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-59330179129263103042014-10-22T20:10:00.000-07:002014-10-22T20:10:05.294-07:00Let It Go- How to take a break and still be productiveMost of you might be wondering- where the heck has Vera been? (I am left wondering the same thing too sometimes) Ok, so here is the low down: I started a class at Brown, had the flu, and made a pretty decent costume. Ok the flu does not count. <br />
The truth is I was swamped with worries, plagued with doubts, and just felt overwhelmed. So I decided to take a break from the business so to speak. I started taking classes from Brown, worked at a BigFoot Military Tires to get a work out, and I took on a commission as a semi-professional seamstress to make a homecoming character gown for the lovely and beautiful Alexis Gilbert. <br />
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The whole project of sewing really got me thinking: if I needed a break and didn't do anything productive...what would be the point in taking a break? Small business owners know what I mean. If you don't work, you don't get paid, you don't expand, and you don't get advertised. <br />
It's really tough building a company and your reputation...but it's not unlike building a costume. <br />
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1. Visualize you customer basis and the strengths of this basis. <br />
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My client was Alexis Gilbert. She loves Frozen, Disney movies in general, has a fun and proud personality. A marvelous dancer and a total smarty pants. <br />
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2. Plan what you can offer you client. (In this case I was hired as a spur of the moment but it works just as well) Alexis knew I had made several costumes in the past and had something very specific in mind for her homecoming character.<br />
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3.a Understand the client's wishes and know if you can provide excellent service. I had the experience and confidence to make a wonderful costume, however; I would have never dreamed of making a wedding dress, that I would have passed on to another person I know. I knew my limits and strengths. <br />
3.b (Know the budget and financial breakdown of your client so that you can always meet their financial and mental expectations, and in finances always go for under budget when possible. Your client is top priority and so are their funds.) <br />
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4. Next brain storm and project plan. Know how to personalize your business for you passionate client base. In my costume plan I wanted something that reflected Alexis in every possible aspect. Elegant, graceful, and 'go big or go home' attitude. So I made my list and went shopping (fabrics, thread, contracts fabric, glitter, zippers, bling, and pizzazz) I also considered even the eye color and skin tone of my client when selecting colors of the fabric, no aspect of the client is too superfluous. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6EzZsCkZaOrnrBmww3cSp4xjknlqs7i2L0zFzvZCzAGgMfoxckOyQOH5dojKKTeaeGmvEWHJGaFNvVX_UTomzGBYGdTNp3IozkV4_drn-WSH5XJRni7AZWMi_w3kd2ETMdlPC1V3Xk9S/s1600/elsa+dress+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6EzZsCkZaOrnrBmww3cSp4xjknlqs7i2L0zFzvZCzAGgMfoxckOyQOH5dojKKTeaeGmvEWHJGaFNvVX_UTomzGBYGdTNp3IozkV4_drn-WSH5XJRni7AZWMi_w3kd2ETMdlPC1V3Xk9S/s1600/elsa+dress+1.JPG" height="149" width="200" /></a></div>
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(The beginnings of the order)</div>
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5. Start from the bottom up. Much like a business a costume has basic pieces it needs and you can solidify a good reputation and plan if you get the basics down first. You cant have a princess dress without a skirt ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZm3ZpcCvV7ipsZwyZ1aMpGp_7ucf-yXtUMqbGVaTg-an12QCY9-fjMlEauSldb40j20BKyIrIqSX0B_GeIvulvZKtoWt548ZQ8RfHIjQlp-wZlSEw2eeZ6J9MUK0IbXXxxlplDB2ijD1p/s1600/elsa+dress++2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZm3ZpcCvV7ipsZwyZ1aMpGp_7ucf-yXtUMqbGVaTg-an12QCY9-fjMlEauSldb40j20BKyIrIqSX0B_GeIvulvZKtoWt548ZQ8RfHIjQlp-wZlSEw2eeZ6J9MUK0IbXXxxlplDB2ijD1p/s1600/elsa+dress++2.JPG" height="200" width="149" /></a></div>
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(Basis skirt model)</div>
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6. Step back and reinvent the idea of your project to better streamline the process. I altered the pattern in seven key places because I knew my client and I had wanted excellence (as much as I could) <br />
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(End of week 1)</div>
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7. Quality trumps QUANTITY! Especially in the small business world you have to prove you are different and the quality (not quantity) will prove that to your client. Not only had Alexis already shopped around for a costume, she was not impressed with the price and quality of the gowns. Quality is what brings customers your way. Knowing this I tailored the dress to fit her athletic tastes and bought the performance fabrics for durability, sheen, and feel. <br />
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(Photo I sent to Alexis to get approval on the train)</div>
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8. Always keep the client up to date on advancements, changes, and further ideas...seriously that's a no brainer. It makes and keeps your business human. Never automate and be a personal as possible. (I added embellishments whenever possible to give regal elegance to the costume but not to over do it and make it itchy or impractical)</div>
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9. Fit the product to your client and make sure all is well. I had two minor things that I needed to do before the final turn over. Hem and trim the dress per her shoe selection, and add the final touch to the collar. Honestly it was a simple process and I gave the materials for embellishments to her in case she made a last minute choice. Check and double check before you turn the product over. Your name and your reputation are contained within each project. Make it shine. </div>
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And boy oh boy did it shine! I was so pleased to see this mornings pictures and look forward to many more. </div>
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Remember, if its a costume or business, simple, smart steps that are all customer focused will get you further than any amount of convention. </div>
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Be YOUnique!!!</div>
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Props to Andrew of A&L Adventures Inc for the gorgeous photos before class at oh dark thirty this morning. He took plenty more and the special effects are beautiful. If you ever need professional, well priced photography with an amazing turnaround you should look his company up. Just another small business trying to make it by. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-86133219686393286862014-10-02T15:53:00.001-07:002014-10-02T15:53:32.397-07:00Nice Vice<br />
Ever thought about what you're top vice is? I've so many, I lost count years ago. Not to brag, but suffering from chronic perfectionism, OCD (CDO for those of us who understand), mega artist complex, and anxiety they can't live without me. They define that person I like to call my evil twin, and if I stopped feeding them, I wouldn't have an evil twin.<br />
A long time ago someone told me that weaknesses were strengths overdone...well I that didn't help this monstrous ego I am saddle with because out came the snob. "Hahaha so really you're telling me I am too good at everything." (evil monologue laugh.)<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(courtesy of google images)</span></div>
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Ok, so that got me thinking and being sick recently has helped me calmly formulate an idea for a post. All writers are artists, and even business persons have a unique creative intellect. We are a special kind of OCD (boy, it hurts to even write that) and have a huge chip on our shoulders. We all have vices, and some of the best ways to change said habits are to realize we have them in the first place. They do affect us negatively, and it is something we can change...so why hide it anymore? Believe me, often times the last person to know about the vice is the person who has it. You won't surprise anyone but yourself with this introspective assignment. <br />
In an effort to ameliorate our imprisoned souls from the stigma that all artists/business persons are stuck up, I propose we allow a moment of honesty pierce through our ever creative worlds and think of our vice that we most often struggle with. I am actually collecting and making a scrapbook of the neatest takes on vices, so to kick of this new honesty fest here it goes...<br />
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Prime Vice: MY OPINIONS<br />
I have the worst, and most embarrassing habit of assuming everyone is entitled to my opinions and not their own. Technically they aren't facts so I shouldn't be so full of myself. No matter how much truth I have use to levy off any rivers of doubt regarding my heavily fortified opinion, that doesn't mean that one day the rivers might swell and overwhelm the dam. I need to become a more appreciative of people's opinions. (Note: this is NOT including morals- we all know what's wrong and no matter the excuses just because you don't like it doesn't make a moral issue an issue of opinion.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwhxhWx6tvvJzKVvLlsZ9fZnaq45i6EZ919HagzCjOllpG7b-syFHlVV7ay1yQestWA9gbcpVqVck0uiSnFZzkr-prPlwBbUGGbFGINXLfL4zHobGIdW1HGrHgmV1pSQzIT5P68QjxE-c/s1600/Angle-of-Japanese-bow.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwhxhWx6tvvJzKVvLlsZ9fZnaq45i6EZ919HagzCjOllpG7b-syFHlVV7ay1yQestWA9gbcpVqVck0uiSnFZzkr-prPlwBbUGGbFGINXLfL4zHobGIdW1HGrHgmV1pSQzIT5P68QjxE-c/s1600/Angle-of-Japanese-bow.gif" height="320" width="297" /></a></div>
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My goal is train my spirit into the ultimate sai-keirei- so far I meet everyone disrespectfully face to face...FAIL<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-73336340272917274262014-10-01T18:14:00.001-07:002014-10-01T18:14:36.790-07:00Too long fair world!<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-family: Helvetica;">I have missed this so much! I'm so behind on updates and emails, and goodness gracious work with my publisher. Since my mental capacities are always stretched I have little energy for any other exercise- hence low immunity, yup, constantly sick. Been laid out with the flu... But it has inspired me to write a new-perspective post. Will post soon :) </p><p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-family: Helvetica;">I miss you all!!! </p><p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-family: Helvetica;">By the way, anyone remember the contest I started a while back? Here's a hint: Nuna in Korean means what? </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-9793829159140888682014-09-25T17:38:00.001-07:002014-09-25T17:38:49.160-07:005 o'clock CharlieWhoever watches MASH knows what I am talking about. It's just something that you depend on from your enemy, that predictable cheap shot that comes at the same time, every time. Well after my encounter today I am actually feeling pretty good.<div>Life has a way of catching up with those "5 o'clock Charlies" we know and being bitter won't help. And on a lighter note, we often get good news after bad news! Today my good news is about my book! </div><div><br></div><div>The design team is done with Songs of Many Seasons! Yeah Buddy!!! Check out the cover and back view. </div><div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00goPz8zQ1JDWEc5W4NvHUEJiUa4dAvhVvMIgdGgI5V8aiBKSESwO5npOP8Letd4i5F3MC9hTioo-awg10eqXJSVQwMtG2GAt2NJ9vD6Ht-J0N0_Jw1926ZbQx6Wx2-gtnpHUOnU8jcg8/s640/blogger-image--1707252949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00goPz8zQ1JDWEc5W4NvHUEJiUa4dAvhVvMIgdGgI5V8aiBKSESwO5npOP8Letd4i5F3MC9hTioo-awg10eqXJSVQwMtG2GAt2NJ9vD6Ht-J0N0_Jw1926ZbQx6Wx2-gtnpHUOnU8jcg8/s640/blogger-image--1707252949.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdf8MIr-FYW9_oPXqiOio1wG3MbXbNBOMH_S87tvTbty6IFKleTuk6bF1lOchAlz8MBGoXDpBt8t0VukaixpiVltnicU6V8CbnuocxMz4ucAlPszpYQOZTy15_9gndzVQXhE4LJ2Uf4Jyc/s640/blogger-image--1703320614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdf8MIr-FYW9_oPXqiOio1wG3MbXbNBOMH_S87tvTbty6IFKleTuk6bF1lOchAlz8MBGoXDpBt8t0VukaixpiVltnicU6V8CbnuocxMz4ucAlPszpYQOZTy15_9gndzVQXhE4LJ2Uf4Jyc/s640/blogger-image--1703320614.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Remember don't let others depress you or bring you down. A long, happy life is the best revenge! </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-66261823886114857312014-09-22T10:49:00.006-07:002014-09-22T10:49:59.323-07:00The Folly of FacebookWeekend update: <br />
1. After weeks of being ignored, my editor came to see me! We were able to make some ridiculous headway in the final revisions of my new novel and map out the content for the sequel!<br />
2. I should have my electronic plate proofs for Songs of Many Seasons by Friday!!<br />
3. I found out some really interesting things about marketing and Facebook pages. <br />
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Let's talk about some controversial subjects to get going today. First, what is your personal opinion of what's happening in the NFL, currently? Adrian Peterson, Ray Rice...you should know both, or at least one story well. Here is a cap: Ray Rice knocked his wife out cold after she slapped him repeatedly and spit in his face. Adrian Peterson is accused of beating his child with a wooden switch till it caused lacerations. Now Facebook, Twitter, social media, and sports news stations are going nuts! It's an emotional topic for many people. It matters not where your opinion falls on either side. I am pretty heated too, but let's not get caught up. Take a step back with me and let's explore how issues like this can really affect your small business negatively. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Peterson and son courtesy of google images)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Rice and daughter courtesy of google images)</td></tr>
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If you are like me you have a business Facebook page. Most people do, the harm that is posed by mega social issues like these above often doesn't hurt big business, but the small ones. Here's why. YOU. The owner, the proprietor of your small business website. You are human, you have opinions, but unless your personal account is distanced effectively from your business account, beware! Google +, Twitter, Facebook, blogs, and all social media sites you own personally can either protect or seriously harm your small business by the content you post. <br />
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For example, I am an Author. Any site I run automatically becomes a business platform to me because my name is on it. I have my image, my fans know who I am, what I discuss, and they are use to me. Your business may not be John Doe's Supplies, but as a small business, your name as the owner/proprietor is inexorably linked to your livelihood. Now listen careful: What YOU post on your PERSONAL accounts will in some way affect your business. <br />
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I purposefully avoid heated topics like the NFL's recent trouble. I may talk freely about the case, but I will not publish my opinions because I know that there are people online waiting to get into a dirty, ugly fight on both sides. Also, I don't want an opinion I hold personally to change my business image as an Author. I have tackled so many issues in my novels and poetry its crazy, but I don't want to influence the market in a negative way by openly getting involved in every controversy known to man. <br />
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Your business is your baby, protect it with guarded words and thoughtful speech. You won't ever lose business by posting hopeful messages, interesting tips, or stories of achievement on your personal social media sites. You will lose business, however, if you blare your opinions across the world wide web with powerful language while being inconsiderate to those who have an opposing view. You define your business with your personality. It shouldn't matter to a printer if a football player has seven children from two different relationships. It shouldn't matter to a fiction Author if a professional athlete has been married multiple times. We are our business, anything else is a distraction to our viewers and followers from what we do and who we are. <br />
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Remember though, there are some issues worth standing on. Moral integrity in business, kindness, love, encouragement, ethics, legal practices, and do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Express your opinions in areas where you can prove you are different than bigger, soulless companies. You care, the little guy matters to you. That is the opinion your viewers and buys care about. Don't waste words on situations to which you are unrelated, and if you are related, all the more reason to keep the matter amongst close family and friends. You would be surprised what such a little change can do to boost your image and help you stay focused in a blurring market of emotional sensationalism. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-25945147451763551422014-09-19T20:51:00.001-07:002014-09-19T20:51:58.585-07:00Bob's Your Uncle...Intelectual Property Up For GrabsThe ultimate in colloquial speech. Entomologists are baffled, people have supposed...but no one knows the truth about the funny little phrase: "Bob's your uncle." I would love to survey all 90's babies and see if they heard that phrase for the first time in the animate 101 Dalmatians. Trust me, as a little kid, that was funny stuff. Because I actually had an uncle, named Bob. Except he demanded to be called, "The Great and Wonderful Uncle Bob..." Again, narcissism doesn't run in my family...right. <br />
So, a little bit of education now. This phase can mean many things, listen up all you internet surfing softies born in the golden age of brutish slang; as opposed to the iconic slang of my time ;-) I digress. The proper use of this 3 word combo is to evoke a sense of mystic ease while doing a chore, job, or explaining steps. <br />
Example: "Look; run in, grab the loot, and bob's your uncle; we're living like kings!" Notice the many pitfalls if the plan are neatly summed up with Bob's Your Uncle?<br />
While everyone is puzzled about the phrase, what I want to know is not who is Bob or who was his nephew or niece...but what impossible circumstance did Uncle Bob overcome? It must have been pretty stinking impressive. Considering it was 1880s time frame possibly earlier I wonder what it could have been? Puzzling, no? <br />
Either way I feel like there could be a book written about the crazy impossible things Uncle Bob did, and no, I am not referring to my Uncle Bob. But it would be a great idea for a children's story book. Do you know how many little boys would laugh if every weird situation in the book was solved by some mysterious power of "Bob's Your Uncle?" How about all the Uncle Bobs that would buy the book and be like, "Yes, I am magical." Its a golden idea right? I should publish the book myself.<br />
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So, now we get to the meat of the article and talk about the BIG mistake I made with this post. Most people worry about their intellectual property when signing contracts to turn over or release their art. It is a valid concern. But few think of their intellectual property before contracts. What does this mean? Well consider this. <br />
If I did want to publish a book for children, using this idea (and trust me the thought crossed my mind) I made a huge mistake by sharing that idea with the world before I developed it further. The intellectual property I own, you own, and everybody owns is idiosyncratic ideas and projections. Once you share your intellectual property freely, people are free to take the ball and run with it as they like. <br />
Continuing the notion that I wanted to publish this book. Telling the world my idea leaves anyone in the world free to write/draw the book and market it as their own. Imagine my dismay as I finish the cute little manuscript, only to find out a book with the same core thought is released. A publisher would be crazy to agree to print my work. And I could say all I wanted: "that's my idea!" But, legally next to nothing could be done because the idea came from my public blog, and the story gendered from a private source.<br />
The moral of this story is that your ideas and future projects should have a certain anonymity to them if you want to receive credit and/or compensation. Your ideas are your property, intellectual property to be exact, but if you spread them someone can take your metaphysical idea, make it physical, and they own it. Not you. Unless it's irrelevant that the public know what you are up to and what you are working on as an artist, please keep in mind that the first two w's in www, stands for world wide. Don't get hurt as an artist and protect your intellectual property in and out of contracts. <br />
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PS: I will not be mad, insulted, or upset if anyone uses this idea to publish a good book for children with little cartoon pictures. All I ask is for you to let me know, because seriously, I would love to do review on that! <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-2279285134545269662014-09-18T11:23:00.001-07:002014-09-18T11:25:49.882-07:00To Publish or not to Publish...<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkC3tDggCSD5QXRNZkzOtVwe37GxDTt8G0r6QitHOlkpDmF-ajPLoSVJR13EO7Bzj3WP_sbLKQBSia_BaGA5WvawqC6tXcQIqe7c_nFdgJqwhNN1X6Un795yDnJki3maU7xzUPoXCPCloJ/s640/blogger-image--1398439053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkC3tDggCSD5QXRNZkzOtVwe37GxDTt8G0r6QitHOlkpDmF-ajPLoSVJR13EO7Bzj3WP_sbLKQBSia_BaGA5WvawqC6tXcQIqe7c_nFdgJqwhNN1X6Un795yDnJki3maU7xzUPoXCPCloJ/s640/blogger-image--1398439053.jpg"></a></div>Most people I know want to be writers. They think they want to be published and have a major contract and all the glory that goes with it. <div>Pay attention to the operative word in that sentence...think. That's right, most people see the gold and glory and don't know what goes into it. Hours and hours of PAIN! It's like pregnancy except gestation can take years. The publishers are the doctors and your in full blown labor trying to get your baby out into the world. It's not fun. But ask any mother if it was worth it...</div><div>Now that you've been warned here is the good news. Go for it! Accept that it's a process that is not easy, be ready to make mistakes, be ready to embrace criticism, and be ready to stand on your own and still have the courage to move forward. </div><div>Most authors (and some mothers) will tell you, "It's so hard- it's this- it's that." "Don't do it." I read 0 encouragements as an aspiring author months ago. 0. And dozens of painful, mean spirited articles about why I should give up. Because hundreds are like me and I am a poor writer because if I wasn't I would already be published. I was told by every word they wrote to give up. But I didn't. </div><div>If you want to write and publish here is my advice. Don't let the negative, sorry stigma other have burden your own success. If they want to complain or quit let them, but don't you dare let go of something you believe in. Don't give up something you value because of someone else's thoughtless remarks. Authors are sensitive, we hurt easy. I half think the big ones that tell us newbies to be quiet are because they fear that we could compete with their books. It's a fair market, write better then me and I won't hold it against you, I will even buy your books.</div><div>So, don't let refusal letters, editors, authors, or anyone else tell you, you can't do it. Because the truth is, if you do it with all your might, you will succeed. </div><div>Succeeding isn't a $1,000,000 contract, or a fan base that worships you. It's your book, your baby, finally making it out from the stereotyped womb of unworthiness to the light of individualism. </div><div>Blog, get one reader and you've already proven people wrong. Because even if only one person reads your work, you touched one life. Sometimes the world focus too much on the big names like Nicholas Sparks, Stephan King, and Stephanie Meyers. Not that they aren't amazing, not that they don't have greatness; but there is greatness in you too. The same greatness that these people have is inside you in a unique form. Don't try and be them, it will only mask your true talent, you don't have to be or say anything that isn't 100% you. </div><div><br></div><div>I don't make money from this blog, I am not trying to sell you something, I am only trying to undo the hurt that others may have caused you or someone you know. Don't be depressed. A single, true fan is better than the 100,000s people buy to look popular. Yes, people actually buy viewers to look like they are popular. </div><div>So if you ever meet me on the street, conference, book signing, or anything; I will answer the question the same any day of the week. To publish or not to publish...my answers is: Publish. A blog, a book, a news article, whatever it is; publish and don't look back or be anything but you. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-75723380463000061822014-09-18T08:39:00.001-07:002014-09-18T08:39:03.843-07:00Updated Contest; news<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-family: Helvetica;">I am so excited to announce my book has officially been set and I have already spoken to the design team that are constructing the cover. This is a huge first step for me. </p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-family: Helvetica;">Songs of Many Seasons is so close to debuting! See the full discription at: www.booksbyvera.wix.com/veralynn </p><p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-family: Helvetica;"><br></p><p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-family: Helvetica;">Also if you were wondering here is your first hint for the contest; what does Nona mean in Korean? </p><p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-family: Helvetica;">(Don't forget post your answer to the blog and sign up via my website.) </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-74822653463894492332014-09-17T12:33:00.000-07:002014-09-17T13:36:49.716-07:00Bloggables and SwashbucklingMy life as an author basically consists of lots of sleep, writing, and a little odd jobs here and there. Since I started this blog I have had the time of my life building up my fan base and just finding interesting things to say to engage an audience. One thing that never works, math titles. Don't try it. It kills views. <br>
So today, as I was rummaging through my office (fancy word for any place I have cluttered to death) I found all sorts of old poems and stack of papers that are ages old. And my first two thoughts were: I wonder if this would make a good blog and this page looks like a pirate beard, hahaha arrrrrg! You can guess which one I had more fun with off the bat. <br>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(This is totally what I saw in my mind</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">check out the original at DeviantArt)</span></div>
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So going through your old writings can be a horror storm of emotions, but ultimately its like watching a child grow. You can see how you have evolved and honed your skills, maybe even realize your old self had a purity to it that you would like to regain. Whether is looking at pictures of your youth or seeing something your wrote in third grade, those things are priceless treasures. (And no I am not an narcissist...maybe)<br>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(My reaction... "A pirate cross dressing princess...next story!")</span></div>
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So now for the informational section:<br>
Would any of you believe that the posts on a blog that generate the most views are the nonsensical ones? I totally was taken by surprise on that one. Apparently according to feedback and viewer trends, not many people are interested in step by step instructions and clear cut plans, but would rather be distracted by an amusing post with once central lesson. So as you go about creating your blog or even having conversations about your business, keep it interesting. <br>
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As many of you are aware the goal of this blog is to help people get to know me, and perhaps even learn a few things themselves about marketing, authorship, writing and such, but by popular demand I am changing things up. So look forward to more fun posts and a lot less technicalities. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-30970252766465330422014-09-14T11:42:00.001-07:002014-09-14T11:49:06.641-07:00Nerb or Voun...you decide<div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">"Love is that condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own."</span></blockquote>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">-Robert A. Heinlein-</span></blockquote>
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Take some time and reflect on two basic parts of speach. The noun and verb.<br>
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Now, co<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">nsider these three nouns: Love, happiness, you. Only one is also a verb...which is an interesting thing to recognize. It's like a voun or a nerb. When you tell someone "I love you", you are using the words in an actionionable (verb) sense, but you are also implying that your love is a thing making it also a noun. Looking at the reverse, when you say "I am looking for love," the word is a noun, you are looking for it, making love a thing. Yet, in "looking for love" you are also giving it an actionable quality because we associate the word with feelings and responses. Love may be equivalent to a gift of roses or love may equal a no invitation to an upper class date. Either way it is a thing (noun) that is irrevocably associated with particular actions (verb). Neat huh? Take that Engish 101. </span><br>
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If you have a favorite voun or nerb post it here! </div>
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<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiayEooMOwhDDD3Ny7rVy9yXJbJvKdfYpxeHeAcir87dpof5fI4HP5ioKk7IdkRNhPBN4Av4O16ikD9xv_MTAV5570gMRRhctq7CK9-K4u16I3gYRYl6l-2bb8JDf02VLx9EtU7_vF48276/s640/blogger-image--612751939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiayEooMOwhDDD3Ny7rVy9yXJbJvKdfYpxeHeAcir87dpof5fI4HP5ioKk7IdkRNhPBN4Av4O16ikD9xv_MTAV5570gMRRhctq7CK9-K4u16I3gYRYl6l-2bb8JDf02VLx9EtU7_vF48276/s640/blogger-image--612751939.jpg"></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-89249894603749194322014-09-12T13:35:00.001-07:002014-09-12T13:35:12.517-07:00The Blah, Blah, Blah, Zone of Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Spicing up your blog can be tough. Sure magazines and social media teach you how to add spice to just about anything, including your love life. But what if you just don't feel like spicing that one up just yet, it's already too hot to handle or you just aren't past cuddles yet and that's ok! Either way there is more to spice up than just a love life or relationships. <br />
For me, adding spice to everyday tasks is a must. A little dash of flava, a pinch of sprinkles, and a whole lotta attitude makes for a great triple threat. But have you ever looked into your cabinetry of ideas and found that (GASP) they are pretty empty? I write every day, probably over 1500 words, and that's not including my profess jobs like my novels, blog, email, and stuff. While I am a full time writer and talker (if you ask my sisters), eventual the doldrums seize me and I have nothing to say-yes, be at awe- even I can be out of words. It's like all my inventive spirits are exhausted like my nerves and I end up having a string of nothing but Dick and Jane sentences (miles away, my editor faints in horror).<br />
Even when things are going well, I find that I can't help occationally wanting and having self pitty that things aren't better. So what can be done about a dried up muse? What can make a day fun? How can one add pizazz back into their life and not feel so empty and depressed? <br />
Truth is, till recently I hadn't a clue. I would clean my room, vacuum, wash windows, shop, read, watched cartoons, cook...I would just exist... and eventually happiness and inspiration would just come back. Recently though I've seen some neat ideas that I have begun to implement and though I would share. They really work!<br />
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<strong>Journal:</strong> While it may seem silly, no one will read your diary, so Dick and Jane away. But journal about meaningful experiences, don't focus on drivel, go for thought provocative topics. Like how you witnessed a homeless man share his meal with a stray dog who was just as hungry. <br />
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<strong>Spend time with children:</strong> Unless you're a shrew or particularly nasty man, the laughter and joy of a child is contagious. No one like to see a spoiled one, you got me there, but try and walk by a park or playground just to hear their laughter and fun. It's scientifically proven to stimulate endorphins and help you gain an extra pep. <br />
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<strong>Silence: </strong>While in actual depression, silence can be a negative experience. For those who experience the occasional plight of melancholy, there is some benefit from meditation while looking at a peaceful scene. If you tend to link happy thoughts with cafes, grab a light Danish and just relax. Do you find the park, lake, or walk along the beach sound just right: then go for it. Do something that catches your fancy and that is fairly local. And don't be a downer and think on what you would rather be doing if you had more time or money, enjoy a simple moment and set aside extravagances. The point is to be free of stress and ill-bred thoughts. <br />
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<strong>Stress Management:</strong> I can't mention being happy without mentioning stress levels. Who ever you are, whatever you do, you have stress and chances are if you are working class, Asian, student, parent, or newly-wed you have wa-ay more stress than a human should. Try and seek help if your stress seems to be a daily issue, otherwise find a stress relief program that fits your schedule and makes you smile. If it's changing your environment by rearranging things, printing out a picture of your loved one, or just asking a friend to listen over a cup of tea, relive your stress frequently in healthy outlets. The more you relieve stress the more it tends to roll off your shoulders. <br />
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Though I'm not a doctor lots of my information has come from MDs. I am a ticking time bomb of medical issues but it doesn't help to dwell on your problems alone. Talk about them openly and honestly with someone you trust, find a resolution, and move on. Life is too short to be contained in the grey-clouded mindset. Each day is a gift and each breath a chance to enjoy it. <br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-48082482566446516092014-09-11T08:00:00.001-07:002014-09-11T08:00:33.317-07:00Marketing Project: follow up #1<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">First, today I would like to give a shout out to my fans and followers, particularly my first link with a viewer in Poland! Way to go, I am honored to have be supported outside the USA. </span><div><br></div><div>Ok. Now for the the update. I am impressed already to have a substantial increase of views since the new marketing campaign began the day before last. In fact for a daily increase we've already hit 35% over the average. That's amazing! If you are new to this refer back to my old post "Increase Marketing" to see why I've already had a great boost in numbers and how you can do the same.</div><div><br><div>And last, to my viewers who aren't on my lists. While 35% is wonderful progress, I still need more website sign ups (www.booksbyvera.wix.com/veralynn), FaceBook page likes, and more people to follow my blog! So if you haven't already please do! </div><div>You can find my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/authorveralynn</div><div>Thanks so much and stay tuned for more posts and updates. </div><div><br></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226020037868617572.post-15696245588617673532014-09-09T12:19:00.000-07:002014-09-09T12:20:00.016-07:00Increase Marketing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Marketing is an amazing, yet hard to understand promotional field of business for many people. De-mystifying the idea of marketing is essential before you can actually market a product. The principle is marketing is promotion, but if you think you need banners, billboards, and expensive adds you are mistaken. Here is what marketing capitalizes on that you can take advantage of for free: personal interest. If you don't know how your product will help individuals, you can spend thousands and still not see a great increase of interest. The more you understand how your marketing strategy will touch personal interest of the viewers, the more money you can save while increasing fans and followers. <br />
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One of the best ways is to offer discounts, or even host a competition. As an example I decided to throw my own give away challenge. Once the results are recorded at the end of the competition I will write a second post. I can expect my views to increase by 20% anything above this would be a huge success for my new marketing idea and I can implement it later use when the seasons becomes a little dry again. I've publicized the event on my blog, my website, and Facebook: let see how the numbers add up and if it's a worthwhile strategy. <br />
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<strong>Songs of Many Seasons GiveAway</strong><br />
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WIN 1 of 5 first print editions, signed and personalized the authoress (me). </div>
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As a 'thank you' to all my incredible supporters and for an example-post in blogging, I am going to host a giveaway competition. *Throws confetti* According to my contract with my publisher I have first crack as my books are printed. Become the owner of one by joining the competition. See below for instructions.</div>
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1. Sign up to follow updates by email for Songs of Many Seasons by entering my website <a href="http://www.booksbyvera.wix.com/veralynn">www.booksbyvera.wix.com/veralynn</a>. Click the 'books' tab on my website and scroll down to find the simple form. </div>
2. Log on to my blog: Booksbyvera.blogspot.com<br />
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2. Read the post titled "Increase Marketing" (the post you are reading right now!)</div>
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3. Use the contact form on my website, (click 'contact' tab) to send me your answer via email. </div>
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OK so here is the question: </div>
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After staying up for 48 hours straight, I wrote a beautiful dedication in a foreign language for Songs of Many Seasons. I do not speak this language fluently, nor does the person to whom I have dedicated my book. However this person will know based on the type of book, that it was published in (his/her) honor. If you are a fan and have read my website and kept updated, you should know who this person is, so for your chance to receive a limited edition signed copy of my newest creation, answer me this: To whom is my book dedicated? </div>
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Don't forget to sign the email list AND and use the contact form from my website to email me the answer. </div>
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Note: No person may win or receve a prize without being on the email list and answering the question on the blog. This is open to all who have followed the rules and prizes will be autographed and mailed at my expense. Be the first of 5 to answer the question correctly and I will contact you with fursther instructions after the deadline is up to prevent cheating. There are only two people who know the dedication, myself and my editor. Neither of us will be participating in this competition. Good luck and keep updated with me on all social media sights, because hints will be posted all over. You may answer as many times as you would like, but only will receive one prize if you are correct according to the rules. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732621373968709531noreply@blogger.com0