Monthly Archive for February, 2009

Are You A “Real” Writer?

Published on February 20, 2009 in Writing/Publishing. 6 Comments Tags: , , , , .

People constantly ask me when they will become a “real” writer.  They believe that because they aren’t published they cannot call themselves a writer.

What a load of baloney!

My definition of a writer is anyone who engages in the art of writing.

If you:

Work on a novel
write articles
write short stories
write poetry
write non-fiction books
write features
undertake commercial writing (copywriting)
write blurbs

Or do any other form of writing – whether you’re published or not – you’re a writer.

It doesn’t matter if you’re not published; what matters is you are in the process of trying to get published.

Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.  As a person who is endeavouring to get published, you are definitely a writer!

I learned a very long time ago that I am the only person I have to please. 

Negativity is one of the worst things a writer should endure.  Place positive people around you, have a positive mindset, and keep practising and submitting – these are the things that will help you get published!

Til next time…

 

Cheryl

 

 

 

Devastating Fires in Australia

Published on February 12, 2009 in Writing/Publishing. Closed Tags: , , .

No matter where in the world you live, you’ve no doubt heard about the devastating bushfires we’ve endured here in Australia.

They are in the state of Victoria, which is where I live, but I am not in the fire zones.  I’ve had many emails from around the world checking on my status, making sure I am not in the midst of them.

Thank you for your concern – I am fine.

My daughter and her family had to evacuate as they live in a fire-affected area, but luckily their home survived. They were given the all-clear by the CFA (Country Fire Authority) late the next day, and were able to return home.

That said, they had no power, and no water when they returned home, because the water is pumped by electricity, so were forced to spend considerable time at a nearby ‘relief centre’. (Power was returned late that same day.)

Being the close-knit family we are, I found it difficult being so far away, and basically helpless to do anything of value.

My daughter and her family only moved to the area a few months ago, so it was a bit of a scare for us all.  Unfortunately these are the sorts of risks you take when you move into the country, especially when you go to a fairly remote area. But it doesn’t mean I have to like it…

Again, thanks to all for your concern.

 

Cheryl

 

What the…….?????

Published on February 10, 2009 in Writing/Publishing. Closed Tags: , , , , .

Okay, so now I realise how long it’s been since I posted.

More than a month. Goodness me – I find it so hard to believe, but the proof is on this blog.

So I’m going to try to be more diligent.  I’ve been busy- very busy – but that’s no excuse.  I have to make the time to post.  If I don’t do it, no one will. And that won’t help you.

Ironically, I want to give you a gift.  It’s a pdf that lists 12 topics you can blog about.  Yep, absolutely true.  Would I joke about something like this? <g>

Okay, go grab it now - I have no idea how long this will be available.

 

Cheryl