Author Archives

Cathy C. Hallhttps://cathychall.wordpress.com/I write, write, write. Then I rewrite, rewrite, rewrite. THEN I submit all those polished-up words out into the world and sell 'em. It's a plan that's worked pretty well.

Finding A Blog, a Booklist, and Your Byline

by

In my zipping around on the wacky world of the web, I often come across terrific info and bookmark it-then forget to EVER go back and actually read up on the info. Kinda defeats the purpose, right?

So, I found that when I share these info-tastic links here on Finders & Keepers, I’m less likely to forget. And more likely to read up. Plus, you get to check out the info-tastic links, too. It’s a win-win-win!

First up, I came across a fun blog called The Writer’s Alley, wherein that old bugaboo, “Show, Don’t Tell,” was discussed. And within the post, I found a delightful link to an interesting worksheet that might be helpful if you struggle with this bit of a sticky writer wicket.

Next, I loved, loved, loved this site called Flashlight Worthy, with handpicked book recommendations on bunches of topics. I bookmarked the Children’s Books page which will take you to lots of different lists. Like Picture Books we Love to Hate or Books If You Like Cinderella. Seriously, I could spend a month reading these lists.

And finally, I found the latest Highlights Current Needs. Increase your chances of seeing your byline in the magazine by sending in something that Highlights needs. I’m partial to that “humorous stories” for young readers on the list, but there’s plenty to go around, no matter what you like to write.

That should keep you busy. Unless you bookmark this post to read for later!

What’s Over YOUR Writing Spot?

by


My writing spot happens to be a desk.

Oh, I might open my laptop while sitting at the kitchen table, or outside on the deck, or even in my HUGE comfy chair when the Braves are on TV. But serious creative thinking and/or writing goes on at my desk (despite what the Beneficent Mr. Hall may say). So, it’s there, above and around my desk, where I’ve posted stuff to inspire, amuse, prod or cajole me into writing brilliance.

As I just posted my latest calendar sheet of the month, I thought I’d share. Because this simple tool (courtesy of The Verb ezine, from the genius of ReadingWriters) has made me even more brilliant (again, despite what the Beneficent Mr. Hall may say).

What I love about the calendar is that I can see, at a glance, the entire month. I can map out projects I want to tackle, making a workable time table. I check off a goal as I go-or circle a project I didn’t get to and add it to the next month. By the end of the month, my pretty little calendar sheet might be a mess. But I’m always surprised at how much I’ve accomplished. What can I say? There’s just something about goals staring me in the face every day that motivates and/or guilts me .

Plus, I always get a kick out of those monthly quotes. So, if you’re having trouble organizing your writing goals, you might want to try this simple (and did I mention totally free?) calendar, still available here for download.

I’ll share more “stuff over my writing spot” soon, and I’d love to hear about something over YOUR writing spot. Hahahaha! (Sorry-I just noticed one of my comic strips up there. Those Pearls Before Swine guys always make me laugh.)