Cathy C. Hall Writes

DSCN5786 Usually around this time of year, I call on the little gray cells, thinking of all that I’m thankful for, and that’s a good thing. Counting my blessings always cheers me up!

But this year, I had a moment, an epiphany (as you do) and thought that what I’m most thankful for is this day. And that thought called to mind a quote I’ve heard in many different contexts, but the one I like best is attributed to Bill Keane, the cartoonist:

“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift of God, which is why we call it the present.”

It’s taken me lots and lots of years to appreciate the present moment and all the gifts inherent in each and every day. But I think that pretty much sums up what I’m most thankful for this time of year.

And I hope your today is just as nice! (Happy Thanksgiving!)

Books in the wild!

I always have a great time at the writer workshops I co-sponsor. (Well, not me personally. The Southern Breeze region of SCBWI technically is the sponsor. I’m just the smiling face up there, introducing the talented writers and illustrators and agents who come to share their wisdom. The awesome Gwinnett Public Library System is the other generous sponsor.) But the last workshop was especially fun because it was on self-publishing, and writers who go that route are especially passionate.

They have to be, if they hope to find success along that road.

In traditional publishing, you have publicity people behind you, getting your books out there to the public. Some houses do a lot; others do considerably less. Still, they get your book off to the right start so it can land in bookstores and libraries.

But those who go the indie route must start at the beginning of publishing and work very hard to get a book…well, anywhere. So self-publisher types tend to be real go-getters, and I love their enthusiasm. Heck, before the workshop was over, I was seriously considering that route for one of my books that hasn’t been picked up by a traditional publisher yet.

Anyway, during the workshop, talk eventually came around to promotion and getting your book out there. Maybe that’s what inspired me for today’s post at the Muffin, Paying It Forward the Write Way.

I think it’s pretty good advice whether you’re self-published or traditionally published. What do you think? Maybe I’ll have another workshop on your suggestions. (Well, not me personally. Ugh. You know what I mean.)