Blogging about my books, the writing process, mindset, and anything else I feel like sharing.
I'm a list maker. When I saw Alexandra's book, The Checklist Book, I knew I had to read it. Sometimes I think I make lists just for the sake of making a list. Other times, I'll make a list, and then I don't follow it and end up doing other things.
One of the big things I learned from reading Alexandra's book is why certain checklists don't work for me. It’s the same reason I make a list then don’t follow it!
Read MorePeople feel the intention behind your work. They feel the big message. They feel the heart and spirit. They feel the vulnerability and courage. That’s what they remember.
Not the fact that you spelled “the” as “teh” on page 42.
Read MoreI was about 12 or 13-years old when I read a book about high-performance athletes and how they get to Olympic level. I was a competitive figure skater and wanted to make it to nationals. Sadly, I can’t remember the name of that book, but it was fascinating.
One of the things I started doing was playing my solo music before bed, closing my eyes, and visualizing completing a perfect performance. That year was one of my best in terms of how I placed at competitions. While I never made it to nationals, I did make it to provincials that year.
Read MoreLast month I shared a wonderful guest post by Desiree Villena—4 Reasons Writing Every Day is Great for Your Wellbeing. While I agree with the points Desiree makes, I also found myself questioning whether writing every day is great for everyone. If you follow author Becca Syme on YouTube, you’ll know about QTP—Question the Premise.
Read MoreGuest post by Desiree Villena.*
As someone who writes for a living, I’ll admit it’s not always something I want to do. Getting started some days is like pulling teeth (if you’ll pardon the cliché from this purported professional wordsmith).
But unlike a trip to the dentist, I always feel much better immediately after a writing session — mentally, emotionally, and sometimes even physically. To me, this is a sure sign that writing is good for my wellbeing, and I know that many of my writer friends feel the same!
Read MoreI had the pleasure of speaking with poet Valerie Nifora about her new book I Asked the Wind. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, I Asked the Wind is a collection of poems about love. Valerie and I chatted about her book and what advice she has for aspiring poets and anyone searching for love.
Scroll down for the video, or continue reading for a summary of our chat.
Read MoreThis post was previously published on the site Create Write Now and is republished with permission from Create Write Now and Mari McCarthy.
GUEST POST BY MELIA DICKER
I was born a worrier into a long line of worriers. As a child, I’d often lie awake at night, terrified that burglars would break into my house, or that I’d fail the upcoming test at school the next day. Now that I have a home and children of my own, I fret about the dozens of details required to keep our lives humming along, from packing lunches to meeting urgent deadlines at work.
Read MoreDid you know that New Year's resolutions regarding personal finances are some of the most common resolutions people make? Not only that, but by this point in the year many people have already given up on their resolutions.
It’s never too late to try again! You don’t need a new year to try something new. Here are a few things I did in 2019 that made a big difference in my personal finances.
Read MoreHi, I'm Michelle! Writing is a passion of mine. I love to entertain and educate through my writing. I started out writing about business and money and have moved on to thrillers and picture books.
Spending time with family is what I'm all about. Life's too short!
I have two amazing sons who love Lego and ninjas...and TV (sigh)!! We read a ton of storybooks to make up for the TV thing. One of the best ways to explain things is through stories of course.
If it was up to me, I'd have chips and dip for dinner every night with a super dark chocolate bar to round out the meal...and maybe an apple! It's a good thing I've got kids and a husband. They keep me responsible (and healthy).
