Monthly Archives: January 2013

Article Completed

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Yay!! I finished my very first article. Well, actually it still needs to be submitted for editing and then publishing, but I am excited regardless.

I was petrified at first – not because I couldn’t tackle the task - but because it was the first time someone gave me the opportunity to write for their organization, and I didn’t want to let them down.

Writing the article was a tad challenging. Even though the article was right up my alley, it was hard to start if off. I changed the first few sentences at least eight times before getting it the way I wanted it. Once I figured out the beginning, the rest came to me. The information rolled out of me to the point that I exceeded my word count forcing me to cut it down to about 500 words. Nevertheless, the main points are noted.

As soon as the article is ready for publication, I will notify you all. You can read it on here or on FamilyShare.com. :)

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Busy Tuesday: Article and Publishing

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Last night I stayed up until the late hours working on my 400-600 word article for FamilyShare.com. When I completed the draft, I was under the impression I was within my word limit. NOT. It turns out I exceeded the amount; and now I have to cut it down to size. I really wish I didn’t have to. I have good material, but I have no other choice. It’s back to the drawing board tonight. I only have a couple of weeks left before submitting.

I have an appointment via phone this afternoon with a publishing consultant to discuss my short story. I am taking a different route with publishing my short story, and I can use all the assistance I can get from professionals. I hope all goes as smooth as I anticipate.

Once I have the short story on its way, I will be attacking my second novel. I was working on it a few months back, but discontinued it for a while. I was making myself nervous and anxious to meet a deadline I knew was impossible to reach. I think I am ready for it now, but with no deadline in mind. It’s all about the writing.

Liar Liar Pants On Fire

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Liar Liar Pants On Fire!! Who remembers hearing those words during school recess, the playground or at home?

I do. As a matter of fact, I chant that very phrase in my head every single time someone approaches me with an obvious lie.

I am sure we’ve been guilty of spreading a white lie here and there. As a teenager, I lied to my mom so I can hang out a tad later than usual or when I first started the workforce, I thought it was fine to take a “sick” day because I wanted to remain in bed. We committed silly lies without the intent of harming anyone. However, what happens when the lies are not white, and the lies begin to escalate into something dark, unpleasant?

Just today a phone call unmasked a lie from someone I know for many years. This person, (will remain nameless) lives his entire life in a lie. He has lost all sense of truth. He lies about finances to relationships to something as simple as a phone call. The problem is once a person creates a big lie, they need to make up another lie and then another and then another to cover their backside. Sadly, they get in so deep that they honestly forget what was the original lie. They stumble over their words, appear nervous and shaky. This type of behavior turns into a vicious cycle. Unfortunately, my friend is living proof of this vicious cycle.

What liars do not consider are the people around them. They hurt co-workers, partners, family and friends – even themselves. Once someone catches on to the lies, the person will never be trusted again, and people will begin to second guess everything the person says or does. Who enjoys living such an unhealthy life?

Celebrity Book Signings – Books I Enjoyed

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My husband and I were organizing our bookshelves this afternoon, and I came across a couple of books from celebrity book signings I attended. These books are on my top list of favorite reads.

Here is a blurry picture of rap artist Prodigy and I. Back when I was in high school, I use to listen to Mobb Deep. Their music was very popular among my friends and I. In one day, I read his autobiography. It was intense, raw and honest. It is definitely a must read.

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prodigy book

Over a year ago, I met LaToya Jackson. She was warm, gentle, soft-spoken and absolutely charming. Her book was filled with both painful and positive moments. I was on a roller coaster ride. I began reading it at Barnes and Noble while waiting for her to arrive and finished it on the bus ride home. I truly enjoyed her story from beginning to end.

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wmlatoya book

Misspelled and Confusing Words

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This afternoon I started researching material for my first article, and I encountered a few blogs – some from newbie writers and some from experienced writers. I was interested in reading their backgrounds, their credentials and posts. You never know what important information a writer can provide that can be useful for you down the line.

Anyway, I was intrigued by one particular blog from a ghostwriter/editor. She listed all the screenplays, novels and freelance work she has accomplished throughout her career. She also stated her availability for any writing projects. As I read a couple of her posts, I simply shock my head in disbelief.  Why? Well, this ghostwriter/editor used plenty of misspelled words along with confusing words.

I know many of us from time to time may misspell a word or confuse “their” with “there”, etc. However, if you claim to be a ghostwriter and editor with an impressive writing background, these types of mistakes shouldn’t take place.

Here are some examples:

I’m a  wriiter. (Writer)

Their is a list of references available upon request. (There)

I expect credit cards and personal checks. (Accept)

Than you for stopping by. I hope to here from you soon. (Thank and Hear)

I don’t know if it’s just me, but I would feel uncomfortable hiring a ghostwriter or editor who uses confusing and misspelled words. My confidence level for that person will drop significantly. Besides, we hire them because of their expertise. If I wanted to use the wrong words or misspell words, I would edit the work – myself.

I’m A Contributor!

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I’m beyond excited to announce that I will be joining hundreds of talented contributors to write for FamilyShare.com – a website focused on strengthening and inspiring families worldwide.

A couple of months ago, I applied for a writing position with their organization, but didn’t hear back. I immediately assumed the worse. But, yesterday I was given an opportunity. I will be sharing my thoughts and opinions on a variety of subjects such as marriage, faith, life and teenagers.

I already signed up for my first writing assignment due in three weeks. I cannot wait to tackle my very first article and have it published for everyone to read. This is a (tiny) step closer to becoming a full-time writer, which is my number one goal.

Wish me luck! :)