Monday, July 11, 2016

Meet the Blogger with...?


July holds many special events, such as Independence Day and several family birthdays, including mine, So I thought I'd take a turn at the Meet the Blogger feature. I hope you don't mind. :)

I'll keep it short since most of you know basic "Karen" details already.

Why did you start blogging? How long have you had your current blog? 

I started blogging in 2009 because I wanted to add blogging to my resume. Little did I know what wonderful friends and amazing things I'd gain from the experience. It's been a great ride.

What is your blog about? 

You know this answer – writing and publishing, books, and occasionally some other stuff. Prior to blogging, a handful of kind writers helped my journey tremendously. I wanted to give back, to help newer writers, and connect with other scribes. 

What benefits have you gained through blogging?

The number one benefit - the friends I've made. Kind, helpful, supportive, faithful, generous - you've all been a great blessing to me! I've also sharpened writing skills and gained experience and insight into the publishing world.

What projects are you working on right now? 

I'm working on a way to hire a stunt double to get some of my non writing projects done. You know - paperwork, laundry, cleaning. There's a better chance of this happening when my ship comes in.

My current projects include writing web content and blog posts for local businesses, as well as articles and guest posts for print/online publications. I'm also working on the continuation of my book series of teen writing lessons. This girl's mind is rarely idle. Can anyone relate?   

What might people be surprised to learn about you?

I really had to think about this one. You know the basics - I like dark chocolate, hockey, reading historical fiction, walking, and hanging out with family. But you might not know I had the lead female role in an 8th grade play. (I decided not to pursue acting. I think the world is a better place because of that decision.)  

If you already knew that exciting bit of info, how about this: I've lived in five states. (Yeah I know, I'm a wild woman.) I was born in Lancaster, PA. Not long after that happy occasion, the Air Force sent Dad to MIT in Boston for meteorology, so naturally Mom and I came along. We moved next to Dover, DE and after Dad's term was up we settled near family in southern NJ. Now I live in KY, which reminds me a lot of PA, and since I'd always wanted to live in PA as a kid, I'm a happy camper. Plus my husband, three kids, daughter in law, and grandsons are here too. :)

What advice would you share with a newbie blogger?

Four things: keep writing, connect with other writers, read, and continue learning.  Always. Your blog will reflect these efforts.

Coming Attractions

Australian author Dorothy Adamek joins us on July 25 for an interview and giveaway. In August, Ann Gabhart returns to celebrate her newest book with a giveaway too. Hope you can join us! 

Taking a short break, see you on July 25!
 
How's your summer going so far? What states or locations have you called home? 

Happy writing,
Karen

Monday, July 4, 2016

What Does Freedom Mean to You?





"Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. 
We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. 
It must be fought for, protected, 
and handed on for them to do the same."

 Ronald Reagan




"It is easy to take liberty for granted, 
when you have never had it taken from you."

Author Unknown 




"Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, 
must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it."

 Thomas Paine




"Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth."

George Washington





Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same. Ronald Reagan
Read more at: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_freedom.html
Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same. Ronald Reagan
Read more at: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_freedom.html
Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same. Ronald Reagan
Read more at: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_freedom.html
I thought these quotes interesting - they are a reminder that freedom isn't free
nor does it happen by accident

The older I get, the more I appreciate what we have here. 

Freedom to live, to speak, to worship.  

May we never take it for granted.


What does freedom mean to you? Happy Independence Day!

Have a great week,
Karen 





Photo credit: Free Images