Good News Galore

There's so much to tell you, I don't know where to start so I think I'll list in linear fashion.

If you read my previous post, you know that I received a blog critique from marketing consultant, Laura Barnes. I was really nervous about it because I've never considered my posts or my blog very professional. Most of the time, I feel like a whiner. Laura gave me a great critique with some wonderful suggestions. I've put some of them into action. Read what she had to say and feel free to make a few suggestions of your own. For info on how to submit your blog for her critique, go here.

 

Second, I spoke at the BWG conference. I even had print copies of Hearts, Hearths & Holidays. What fun to have a book to sign. Three people who've read my story, A Child Was Born, said I made them cry. That was exactly what I'd hoped to achieve but thought I'd missed the mark. Even now, I keep rewriting in my head. Anyway, I took twelve books and sold six.

Author/Editor Linda Yezak & Jess

I was the second speaker, and so glad to get it over with so I could relax and listen to the others.  Honestly, I loved speaking. I always do--even though it's scary when I first look out among all those faces staring back at me. What do they need? What do they want? How can I help? I wish I could get each and every one of them motivated to write daily, research markets, sell. No matter how much we share and teach, it's really up to them. And basically, that's what I told them. They have to make up their minds to grab their dream. My title was: The Power of the Made Up Mind.

After the conference, I checked email on my B'berry and had a message from an editor who wrote:

"The committee has completed the evaluation of your story, Peace of Heart. And, I'm very pleased to say that they have allowed me to offer you a contract. Congratulations!

If you accept ..."

IF I accept? Really!

That's my good news. I've signed a contract with The Wild Rose Press and I'm looking forward to making the editorial changes, seeing my cover, and sharing the happenings and happiness with you.
More later.

Blog Critiques, Anyone?

Laura Barnes of Laura B. Writer gives blog critiques from a marketing perspective with the help of two graphic designers. She has great insight and gives very helpful suggestions about how to make a blog more appealing to readers.  November 12th -- it's my turn to be critiqued.

 

For info on how to submit your blog for her critique, go here.

 

I decided to get a blog critique because it's time to look more professional. I'm sure Laura's suggestions will point me in that direction.

 

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I wanted to post info about the writer's conference w/pictures, but I can''t get my pics to load on hubby's laptop. Remember? Mine is in the shop. I hope my techie man can save it--I'll let you know tomorrow.

 

I had the best time speaking to BWG. And I have some great news to share ... later!

 

 

Speaking and Blogging in the Golden Triangle

Last Tuesday I spoke to the Golden Triangle Writers Guild about Blogging: the who, what, when, where, how and why of it. There were about 27 members there. That means 54 eyes were glaring--I mean staring--back at me.
Scary. Especially when I noticed some blank faces. I asked one woman if she had any questions and she answered, "I have no idea what you're talking about." Talk about creating fear in the heart of a speaker! But that woman went on to create her own blog that very night. :) I understand two other members created blogs too. For me there's nothing more fun and satisfying than teaching and encouraging new writers. My husband says I want to be too many things. He's right.

I want to be:
A writer
A speaker
A professional blogger
An agent
An editor
A publisher
A writing teacher
A writing coach
A publicist

I love it, I love it! How can I do it all?