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

Thinking, a Winner, and Good News

Life consists in what a man is thinking of all day.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Indeed, there is life happening in our heads, isn't there? The mind is where we process everything, battle challenging thoughts, and formulate any number of things. As writers, we might also say, "Writing consists in what a man is thinking of all day."

While all this thinking is a good thing, a break is nice too. Especially when the brain is on overload or you hit a wall with a project. Pen and Prosper's Jennifer Brown Banks offers help in this post, How to Reboot and Rebound. While Jennifer actually references bad computer days, her tips provide therapeutic refreshment for the intense writing life.


A Winner

Congratulations to Bethany, the winner of Ann Gabhart's book, Scent of Lilacs! Thanks to all who stopped by to see Ann in last week's post.


Good News

I signed a contract with Helping Hands Press! They will be publishing my book for homeschoolers later this year. I'm still numb, the entire process happened in a flash - but I am excited! Will keep you posted. :)


What things will you be thinking on today? What do you do to refresh and reboot?

Have a great week!

Happy writing,


Karen


Photo credit: Stock Exchange