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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 Something Friday…Writing Clean-up Day

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I’ve been waiting all day to find something. But now that I take a look around, if something were here, would I find it?

Cleaning up my files, folders, desk and drawers is not on my fun “To Do” list. Before I can file a paper, I have to remember which notebook binder to file it in. And before I can file a manuscript in the binder, I’ll have to find the clear sheet protectors. Then when I find the clear sheet protectors, I’ll probably find a note with mysterious scribbles on it. I’ll suddenly remember what the scribbles mean, which will lead to a Google search.

It’s all too If You Give A Mouse A Cookie complicated for me. The only good part of Writer Clean Up Day is the end, when everything’s organized and I can find things once again.

Well, whadda y’know? I found something, after all. Here’s a market I submitted to last year with no luck: ByLines Calendar. It’s a desk top calendar designed for writers (Byline, get it?). Maybe I’ll try again for a little Fame and Fortune.

I could write about “The Importance of Organization in a Writer’s Life: Cathy C. Hall style.” Now, if I can just find my notes…

What Not to Do Wednesday Re: Rejection

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I could write a book about rejection…and not just of the type on The Road to Publication.

But it’s Wednesday, so that means I’m here to instruct, not whine. Herewith my suggestions for those who may be tempted to cheer up a loved one in the face of writerly rejection. (Though I think saying-wise, 1 and 2 are universal, rejection-wise.)

1. Do not say something like, “It’s all for the best.” It’s not. Unless you’ve written a scorching, scandal-mongering tell-all book about somebody who can either a.) beat you up or b.) hire someone to beat you up. Then it probably is all for the best.

2. Do not say, “All you can do is keep trying.” That’s not all you can do. You can slap a well-meaning loved one upside the head after a comment like that, for instance.

3. Do not say, “(Insert name of famous writer here) was rejected 427 times before he published his famous book, (insert title here).” Nobody cares about (insert name of famous writer here) or his stinkin’ book, (insert title here). Except maybe (insert name of famous writer’s agent here).

I could go on but I think you get the point, grasshopper. Besides, I’m saving the best stuff for my book (insert title here).