YEAR IN REVIEW

Have you already evaluated your life in 2008? I think 2008 was very special to me because it connected me to you...my readers! Last year on this date I remember thinking of all of the possibilities for my life. I dreamed of having my book published, teaching others to write and realize their own potential and I also wanted to do something that brought people together regardless of race, ethnicity, etc. I am happy to see that my dreams came true. I have been blessed with introducing Janelle to all of you! People have told me that she has encouraged their kids young and not so young to be an individual and to be proud of that. I have marveled at the many workshops that took place in 2008 and the works that came from them. Many of the attendees at these events claim that they are not writers...but I have seen excellent works develop from them taking two hours to hone in on their skills. I have traveled all over the East Coast and the Mid-west meeting kind hearted people of all shapes, sizes, colors and belief systems. 2008 was a gift to me. I found my voice and my destiny....I learned how to truly believe in myself and not what others thought was best for me.

I let go of the things that held me back from being a productive person and held on to faith, love and hope! I'm excited for the year 2009 and I am grateful for 2008. How about you? What will 2009 bring forward in your life? Did you review your past year? What exciting things took place for you in 2008? We are less than 24 hours away from welcoming in a new year take some time to reflect! The best writing comes from moments of solace, thought and reflection.
Hope to see you on January 10th at the Creative Writing Workshop in Novi!
Read something good...and write about how good it was!

One of my favorite To-Do's

One of my favorite tasks of the work day is research. I truly enjoy being inspired by others accomplishments. I have had the pleasure of meeting other children book authors at different events. I am always impressed by their knowledge of the industry and their unique way of connecting to others through words. I have never met two authors who were exactly the same. I am happy for this fact. I think it is so important that many different views are expressed in Children's Lit. I'm sure that young readers appreciate having a variety of stories to choose from as opposed to the same old topic. What's the best part of your day? Do you like recess at school? Why? The exercise? free-time? Something totally different? Do you enjoy a quiet moment at wok when no one is in the office yet? Think about the best part of your day...and be grateful because it helps to make you your best you!!
Read something great! Write something better and appreciate those special parts of the day! :)

CONTEST FOR KIDS!

Calling all Aspiring writers (under 18)

If you have read "Who I am not what I am" you are able to enter! Please write a 1-2 page essay on the impact that "Who I am not what I am" has had on you. Have you been nicer to others? Started your own writing project? It does not matter we just want to know how this book has been helpful to you. The contest begins today December 29th and all entries must be turned in by January 20th. Please mail entries to: Young Writers Contest P.O. Box 530432, Livonia MI. 48153. Contest winners will receive "Who I am not what I am" merchandise, "Who I am"certificate and have their award winning essay featured on my blog!

Read something good and write something better!

UNWRAP YOUR POTENTIAL!

Readers & Writers!

The time is now! A new year beckons what will you do with your talent? Do you feel as though you used your resolution list as a guide throughout the year? The best thing about new beginnings is that they don't just happen in January...and you don't have to wait to get started on your dream! If your dream is to be a healthier eater...take those steps now! If you would like to have a book published before the year is over put the agenda together today for how you plan on attacking that goal. You can do anything you put your mind to. I meet people with phenomenal plans for their own books at my signings. I am always inspired by the readers that share their ideas with me. I always suggest that they write down the steps to make their dream come true. It is very easy to accomplish your goal if you have a plan. Speaking of plans if you are free on January 10th I am teaching a Creative Writing Workshop at the Novi Public Library from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. The workshops are great for expanding your journal entries and diversifying your writing style. I also share resources and tips for getting published!

The cost is $15 per person. Make this upcoming the year that you unwrap your potential!

Read Something Great!

Creative Writing Weekend Workshop

I hope to see you at the Creative Writing Workshop on January 10th at the Novi Public Library from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. This is a great forum to learn more about the art of Creative Writing, adding depth to your poems, short stories and novel chapters and more! Many past participants have said that they have learned how to keep a organized writing regimen and now feel confident in sending out a manuscript. The cost is $15 per person and the benefits are priceless! I hope to see you there!

Take Time everyday to do something silly.-Philipa Walker

Hi Readers,
What have you done today that made you laugh? If your answer is nothing ...you must get started. The best stories come from laughs and the best laughs come from everyday actions and encounters. In this world many things can attempt to steal your joy. This is why we must remind ourselves to do things that bring out our best giggle. Make a funny face in the mirror, watch a comedy or read a joke book...no special talent is required to have a great laugh! I am a person that loves to sing and unfortunately my voice is not the best for melody. This does not stop me because singing brings me laughter (and it makes others laugh too).
Enjoy this fun season and discover the moments that bring out your greatest joy...and laugh about it!
Read something good!
Happy Holidays!

Fun in Grand Rapids...wrapping up the holidays!

Thanks everyone that stopped by Walden books in Grand Rapids! I had a great time talking to people on Saturday. Even though man of us are caught in the holiday rush many found time to buy a book, chat and share a great story with me! Speaking of great stories we will be gearing up for our new workshop on Jan. 10th Sat. 10-12. at the Novi Public Library. In addition to this on-going workshop we are beginning a series for young people (18 & under) this event will be a Creative Writing workshop and a open Mic. Jan. 17th. Keep me posted if you'd like to attend either. $15 cost for each session. Have fun shopping and spending time with family and take time out to write great stories.