No time for chit chat here, writers. This is January, and we all know that January is that time of the year when we are gung-ho, nose- to-the-grindstone, butts-in-chairs, spitting-out-921-words-a-day writers! So take a look at these…

The Erma Bombeck Writing Competition: Can you write funny? And keep it short (450 words or less)? Or maybe you have a splendiferous human interest story? If so, polish up your essay and send it off for a chance to win in the Erma Bombeck Writing Competition. BUT, a few things to note. You can only send ONE entry. And this year, there is an entry fee ($15.00). I’m not sure how I feel about this $15.00 entry fee…On the one hand, entry fees tend to cull out those folks who’ll whip up something and send it off to a contest, just for fun. On the other hand, $15.00 is on the high end, especially when you consider that only the FIRST place winners get money ($500.00). I shall ponder this for awhile. Or at least until February 13th. (Entries must be received by February 14, 2012.)

Bylines Writers Desk Calendar 2013: Sylvia Forbes dropped in and left a comment about this submission opportunity for next year’s calendar. BUT, as I wasn’t sure y’all had read her lovely comment, I’m giving another heads up here. She’s looking for short and sweet  stories (300 words) about the writing life. AND you’ll get payment ($5.00) plus a free desk calendar. She’s also giving the top three stories bonus bucks! Read all about the submission guidelines here, and get those 300 words in by March 1, 2012.

January’s Writing Tip: Before you submit to a contest, or a market, or any submission opportunity, do your homework! If the website includes past winners, read the entries. Most magazine markets and newspapers are available in online databases; read a couple issues. If a submission opportunity gives examples of what the editor’s looking for, READ ’em. I guarantee that your brain soaks up little things like style and tone, and your writing will come out a better fit after a bit of reading. Note, I’m not saying copy the writing. We have to be, er, we. I’m saying be your original self and get a good feel for what an editor likes.

Now, then. Take advantage of all those writerly good intentions and goals you made! Today, we write! ( For tomorrow, we may be piddling…)