February
We have entered the second month of 2018, and I am thrilled that the weather in Daytona Beach is warming up! The woodpeckers have returned to our yard, and since we had to cut down the tree stump they had used the past three years, I am thrilled they have not completely abandoned us. I know many of you in North America have experienced harsh weather this winter, and I hope you are beginning to warm up as well.
What signs of the seasons turning are you seeing? Reply to this email, or connect with me on Twitter or Instagram and let me know.
Until next time,
Gladys
Published on the Blog
Recent stories posted on the blog, in case you missed them.
Book or Movie: Which Do You Prefer?
Sometimes, I read the book before I see the movie based on it; sometimes it is the other way around. I recently watched a movie I had seen before, and at the end realized I had yet to read the book. So I did. Here's what I found.
Cardinals
Seeing cardinals, the bright red feathers of the male, always makes me happy. I have been blessed to have been around them numerous times in my life. Here are some of my reflections on them.
I also record an audio version of most blog posts for those who would prefer to listen. You can find them here.
For Reading
If you've been decluttering, or are thinking about it, one of the biggest challenges is knowing what to do with things you are letting go of. If you have books you'd like to find a new home for, here's an idea. Little Free Library, small libraries placed in public spaces that operate on a free book exchange system. You can learn more and see if one is near where you live. If not, consider starting one!
Inside One of America's Last Pencil Factories
A fascinating look at how pencils are made; the pictures that accompany the article are amazing. Last year I started doing my first drafts with a pencil (instead of a pen) and am finding that it works well for me. You can read more about my writing practice here.
The Sad Demise of a Village Cheese-Rolling Competition
When I lived in England, I enjoyed sampling the variety of cheeses that were made locally. While I never visited Stilton, I am saddened that the local competition has been discontinued, at least for now. It is that type of event that makes each village and small town unique. I hope they revive it, and I hope I am able to attend one day!
The Train to Elko
Who knew cowboys were such poets? If you have to spend time alone, outside, with nothing but cows for company, what a not create poetry about it. A look at the Cowboy Poetry Gathering, celebrating its 30th year.
For Writers
Do you know who owns your website? It is a good question to think about, and after reading this author's story, be sure to double check that you own your domain.
Are you selling your books on Amazon? You may want to take a look at this article on ways to make your "Look Inside" sample help, and not hinder, your book sales.
Submissions Spreadsheet - Trying to find a good system to track your submissions? Thanks to an article I read, I created a spreadsheet and it is available for you to download. No sign-up needed! Just click the link inside the article and the download will begin. I hope you find it helpful!
And now for something fun! Buy A Cat, Stay Up Late, Don't Drink: Top 10 Writers Tips On Writing Do you think any would help you???
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