It’s Okay To Want It Why do we dream of publication? Validation.  We believe we’re good writers—we’d love for experts in the business to say you belong with us! We’re also told that we shouldn’t want that validation. The publishing industry is a business … Continue reading →

And That’s Okay! Ever been on a teeter-totter? A seesaw? One person goes up, one person goes down. How often is the board parallel to the ground? Both people balanced? Ever try juggling your writing with your job and your family … Continue reading →

Do What’s Right for You! There’s writing a book. Then there’s selling a book. And they are two vastly different undertakings.  When people say they want to write, it’s because, well, they want to write. Not market a book.  But that’s the reality … Continue reading →

Bridging The Distance I had a dream in which a friend invited me on a journey. In front of us was a deep, wide ravine with treacherous rocks below. “Come on!” he said, scampering to the edge and climbing down. … Continue reading →

…Of A Writer’s Life Ah, living the dream, living the dream…  Yeah, but which one? The dream whose definition is a cherished aspiration or ambition? Or the dream whose definition is a series of thoughts images, sensations occurring when one … Continue reading →

What Writers Can Learn From a High School Dance! Let’s talk prom. Yes, the rite-of-passage high school dance portrayed a million times in a million different ways. Did your school have one? Did you go? Did it look anything like the ones … Continue reading →

Celebrate You! Awards make us feel good. They’re a wonderful source of hard-earned validation. And we’re proud of our accomplishments! But as a writer toiling away in obscurity, awards seem out of reach. How do you feel good about your … Continue reading →

Show Up For Yourself A winter storm swept through Ottawa, turning the streets into a slippery, sodden mess. I had plans to meet a friend; driving would miserable. A half-thought crossed my mind to postpone. We didn’t have to meet that morning. … Continue reading →

You. Year-end reviews give you the best and the worst—of books, movies, TV shows, and, well, everything. What I love about these lists is that they don’t necessarily include the most popular. In fact, one list of best performances in … Continue reading →

Writing Is About YOU I’m an excellent teacher. How do I know? 1) I’ve witnessed improvements in my students’ skills and confidence. 2) My students tell me. 3) Professional evaluations from experts (i.e.: my principal).  You know what’s not on … Continue reading →