August Inspiration and Links

In good writing, words become one with things.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Do you agree with Mr. Emerson? I do, and believe that we paint pictures large and small for our readers. Not an easy task always, but one that satisfies our need to communicate with others.  

Here are a few resources that might help your words become a grand image and inspiration for your readers:


Feeling unproductive and uninspired? Carol Tice offers advice for freelancers in this post, 5 Super Easy Ways Freelance Writers Can Stand Out.

Here's another "5" post from Brian Klems that might offer a boost - 5 Writing Lessons Inspired by Famous Writers.

Do you know the differences between writing for the middle grade and young adult audiences? Brian Klems breaks it down in The Key Differences Between Middle Grade vs.Young Adult. 
 
Need a break from the routine? Check out Jean Fischer's Fun Friday - 6 Quizzes for Writers. Interesting stuff!

Have you or anyone you know self published a book? The 2nd Annual Writer's Digest Self Published eBook Awards offers a grand prize of $3000 cash. Hurry, deadline to enter is September 2, 2014.

Are you a poet? Writer's Digest has a contest for you too. Their Poetry Award contest offers a $1000 grand prize. Early registration deadline is October 1, 2014, regular deadline is October 31.  Click here for details.


What do you think of Emerson's quote? Do you have any links or tips to share? What are you writing this week?

Happy writing,
Karen


Photo credit: Stock Exchange

Title Contest and Daily Diversions

Robyn Campbell at Putting Pen to Paper is having a contest to name her next middle grade book. Click here for a summary of the book and other details. Prize includes a $30 Barnes and Noble gift card; contest ends July 26, 2010. Why not hop over and help Robyn name her book? She's a sweet blogging friend and I know she'll appreciate your input.

A member of my local writing group alerted me to Inkygirl.com. Debbie Ridpath Ohi shares "Daily Diversions for Writers" in the form of cartoons and other  interesting and amusing info. Fun stuff!

Speaking of diversions, what do you do when you take a break from writing? Okay, I know, writers never really take a break from writing because we're always thinking, gathering ideas, and pondering stuff. But what do you like to do for fun? Read? Play with the kids? Go out for ice cream? Go on vacation? Make cookies? Please share, we'd love to hear about it.


Happy weekend!
Blessings,

Karen

Blogging Benefits & Contests Galore

What is the biggest benefit to blogging?  

Information?

Like minded friends?

Connections with other writers?


I've been pondering this in light of my recent one year Blogoversary and surpassing the 100 follower mark. Many of you know that when I began blogging, I had no clue what awaited me. I learned quickly that there were benefits galore.

The most treasured benefit, I believe, is the amazing and varied assortment of writing friends I've made. It warms my heart to think about it. It might sound silly, but it really does. I feel as though I have this incredible support group at my fingertips - friends who offer advice and encouragement, and who care about how things are going. It has enhanced my life and writing. It is priceless, and I am grateful to you, my writing friends. Thank you!

What benefits have you gained from blogging? What did you expect when you began? Do you have any advice to enhance the blogging life? Please share, for your input is greatly treasured. I love the conversations that come about in the comments.

Contests Galore

The Great Race Giveaway, hosted by Carol Alexander of Everything Home with Carol is offering some fun prize excitement. Carol will be celebrating her Blogoversary in July, so hop on over and join the fun!

Lynda Schab's recent post at On the Write Track features details about the Family Circle Fiction Contest. Deadline to enter is September 8, 2010, and there is no entry fee. Yay! Free is nice, don't you think? Check out Linda's blog for all the details.

Don't forget my 100 Follower Giveaway! Giveaway ends Tuesday, June 8, 2010 at noon. To enter, leave a comment with your email address. Complete and addtional entry details can be found on Thursday's post. We also discussed commenting, so feel free to get in on that discussion too, if you haven't already.

Be sure and leave your two cents about the benefits of blogging. I'm looking forward to hearing what you have to say!

Blessings to you,

Karen