REACHING YOUR TOP POTENTIAL!

Have you ever asked yourself what is standing between you and your goals? I have asked myself this question many times and have found that at times ...I am in my own way. When I take time out to plan my goals, and the bullet points that will allow me to reach them I am on my way to success. If you want to write...do it daily. I have met many people that have told me that they are not "good" writers. Many of those people have shared very inspiring stories, poetry and works with me. What makes a writer good? When a writer practices every day, takes time to read others works, goes to classes to strengthen their skills and applies themselves...they are on their way to being great. The best thing about writing is that everyone has a story that they can share and everyone has an audience that can relate to that story. A writer's story makes them good....when they apply themselves in every way this makes them great. Do you want to be great? Come to my workshop on February 7th. These sessions are fun and uplifting. They can inspire you to reach your top potential!

Read something great!

NEW LOCATION FOR FEBRUARY 7TH WORKSHOP!

The Creative Writing Weekend Workshop will be held at the Novi Civic Center on February 7th from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Please note the location change. The address is 45175 W. 10 Mile Rd., Novi MI. RSVP@ whoiamnotwhatiam@yahoo.com You can use the Paypal buttons on this page to reserve your spot today!

Thanks,
Tara

READY, SET, WRITE!

Readers,

We have two great workshops on the horizon and you still have time to sign up! The first one is February 7th at the Novi Public Library. Cost is $15 and this event is open to all adults! The focus is writing for fun, career and/or stress relief. We will cover writing block busters, critiques and resources for publishing. My workshops make great gifts so if you'd like to treat someone to the gift of writing you can purchase a spot right on this blog using the Paypal buttons!

February 28th! The next workshop is geared towards young writers 18 and under. This is a great event because it allows young people to strengthen their creative writing skills, network with others and perform at an optional Open Mic at Solid Grounds Coffee House afterward. Cost is $15/person and this can also be purchased using the Paypal buttons on this site.

Your time is now! Bring your thoughts, pens and imagination and let's create some great stories, poems and books together!

As always have a great day & read something great and write something even better!

What's on your book shelf?

You can learn a lot about a person by reading the titles on their shelf. My home is has book shelves on every floor. I have always enjoyed being able to grab a book at any given time. My shelf consists of many authors of all genres. I truly believe that reading others works helps me to be a better writer. I try and take time everyday to read something great. If you view my blog on a regular basis you will notice that I usually sign off by saying "Read something great". It is the best advice I can give to those who want to become better writers. The next workshop for Creative Writing is February 7th at the Novi Public Library. This is a great opportunity to network with others, expand your writing skills, learn about publishing and it's also a great stress reliever. Writing out one's feelings is one of the best ways to constructively work through challenges. I hope to see you there. The Young Writer's workshop is on February 28th at the Novi Public Library with an Open Mic immediately following. The Young Writer's group is great way to build self-confidence and more! These events are able to purchased off of my blog and are only $15/each session. As always Read something great!

THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES BRING FORTH THE BIGGEST REWARDS

Hi Readers!
Many times I am approached by people who ask me "Was it hard writing a book?" The answer is always YES! I have noticed that many times the hardest challenges that I have faced have brought me the greatest joys! Writing my book was in fact difficult but I think that when things are tough for me I appreciate them more. I am currently training to run a half marathon. I'm suprised at how tough it is. I've always enjoyed exercise and I workout on a regular basis. I've learned that I am not the best at endurance. Running requires focus, determination and consistency. Isn't it interesting how running and writing require the same skills? When I decided I wanted to write a book, It did not just appear. I had to put a lot of thought, hard work and determination into the process. I had to be disciplined enough to write daily and to be sure that I presented the best work that I could so that others could benefit from the story of Janelle. If you want to accomplish any goal..it's possible! Remember that any goal worth reaching will require hard work, strength, determination and focus.
Read something great!

REVISE...REVISE....REVISE

One of the main components of writing is revising. Proof-reading, spell-check and simply reading your work aloud can help it to be a better written work. Revising is a practice that is helpful for everyone. Anyone can benefit from the process of double-checking and thinking twice about their words. It is helpful to do this whether you write or not. The important thing to remember about words is that written or not we can not take them back. If I hurt a friend because I said something insensitive...I can apologize but I cannot erase the pain that my remarks may have caused. Have you thought about your words lately? Please and thank you's are common courtesy words....but when I'm in a rush I have to remind myself to use them. I'll take this time out to say thank you for visiting my blog today and please come back again!

Read something good...

Sharing your works! Solid Grounds Coffee House Feature!

One of the best ways to feel confident about your works is to share your talents with others. You can do this at workshops, critiques and/or local cafes or coffee houses! Solid Grounds Coffee House in Northville, MI gives the opportunity to local writers, singers and musicians to be able to display their talents on Tuesday nights. Solid Grounds has been a great supporter of "Who I am not what I am" they sell my books and allow my Creative Writing students to share their workshop pieces with their customers.

As always read something great and share it with a crowd!

I know for sure that what we dwell on is who we become.

I know for sure that what we dwell on is who we become.
Oprah Winfrey, O MagazineUS actress & television talk show host (1954 - )

What do you think about the most? When we think of being caring individuals that want to see the world change...it happens. A better tomorrow begins with a single thought. A great book is a mere idea that forms into a tool that can uplift, motivate and challenge others in a variety of ways. When I begin my planning process for my book series. I asked myself what contribution did I want to make to the literary world. My goal as a writer is to challenge others to be kind, inclusive and open-minded. My workshops are designed to inspire writers of all ages to create a great work by learning how to tap into the potential that they are already armed with. I truly believe that if I guard my heart and my thoughts I will be able to use my talent to make others better than they were before they met me. I am fortunate to be able to do what I love and because of that I have an obligation to help others discover that they are special, unique, blessed and worthy. The next Creative Writing workshop is on February 7th at the Novi Public Library from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. This is a great way to network, expand your writing skills and gain open critiques. Cost is $15/person. The Young Writers workshop for February will be on the 28th at the Novi Public Library followed by an open Mic at Solid Grounds Coffee House $15/person. Many exciting events will be happening in March so please stay tuned for more information. Today is the last day for the Young Writer's Contest Entries. Remember to dwell on the good and that is what your life will be to yourself and others. Read something good and dwell on the possibilities of your future!

Workshop...contest & more

Yesterday's Young Writers Workshop was great! We began in Novi at the Public Library and ended at Solid Grounds Coffee house for a open-mic. It's great to be able to build your writing skills and share them with the public on the same day. This increases self confidence! Are you an aspiring writer? The next Creative Writing Weekend Workshop is February 7th at the Novi Public Library from 10-12 and the cost is only $15/person. The next Young Writer's workshop is February 28th from 10-12 at the Novi Public Library and ending at Solid Grounds for a open mic. This also costs $15/person. Stay tuned to this blog for more opportunities to have fun with writing, build your self-esteem and meet great people!
Reminder: deadline for essay contest is January 20th.
As always read something great!

If there's a book you really want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it. ~Toni Morrison

If there's a book you really want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it. ~Toni Morrison

Are you disappointed when you go to a bookstore or library and can't find the book that you want on the shelves? This is a perfect opportunity to tap into your own creative juices. I believe that when a void is discovered in a genre it is up to the writers of the world to fill it with their words. Janelle is the main character in my book "Who I am not what I am". So many of my readers remark that they don't see many picture books with diverse people as the main characters. When I was a child I did not see many girls on a cover that looked like me. I decided that this was a challenge for me to help others understand diversity at an early age. Janelle is not only helpful and motivating to those that she looks like... she breaks down barriers for those who do not look like her. Many girls of all races, sizes, and ages have told me that they can relate to Janelle. She likes to skate, loves to talk, is short for her age....the list goes on. I hope that the book that I wrote fills a void for many not just a few. If you have a character in mind that needs to be written...go for it! If you need help understanding character development, and fiction writing please join me at one of my workshops. They are ideal for people who want to build their creative writing skills, peer-critique, story-building exercises and more. The next one is "Creative Writing for Young People" Saturday January 17th at the Novi Public Library 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. followed by a open mic at Solid Grounds Coffee House, Downtown Northville. The next workshop for adults is February 7th at the Novi Public Library. I hope to see you there!

Read something good and write something original!

SATURDAY'S OPEN MIC/WORKSHOP!

Hi Readers,
This is just a reminder that Creative Writing for Young People and Open Mic is this Saturday. The event starts at the Novi Public Library at 10 a.m. Refreshments will be served. This is a fun way to share your writings with others and get started on making your writing publishing-worthy. At 12 p.m. writers are encouraged to meet up at Solid Grounds Coffee House, Northville, MI. 48167 and share their writings (open mic style) with friends, family, and more! Cost is $15/person. Sign up today!

Read something great...write something better... and share it at Solid Grounds on Saturday!

I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody.

I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody.
Bill CosbyUS comedian & television actor (1937 - )

The quote above is from Bill Cosby. I chose to open this post with the topic of people pleasing because this is probably one of the biggest ways to deter a healthy self-esteem. When I was in grades K-12 I felt a strong desire to please my friends. My clothes, hair styles, etc. had to be approved by the crowd I was linked to.
I recall being in the third grade and wanting to be popular so badly that I paid a girl in cookies to be my friend at recess (I know a bit extreme).
As I got older I no longer used cookies to gain friendships but I became less of "Who I am" so that others accepted me more. Becoming less of "Who you are" can mean that you don't tell the truth when something bothers you because you are scared that it will risk your friendship. I can honestly tell you that it is impossible to lose a friend that you never had. True friends want to see you grow and prosper. If you have a friend that is only happy when you make poor choices it's time to rethink this relationship. In my book "Who I am not what I am" Janelle finds out that she does not have much in common with the kids in her class and they question her about her race and ethnicity. Her parents reinforce the things that make her special and she gets satisfaction from these valuable traits that make her unique. Today it might be a good idea to take a look at yourself in the mirror and remind yourself that you are unique and special and if that is not pleasing to others...that's okay. At the end of the day make sure that you are pleased with your own reflection...I have a feeling this will bring you closer to the key to success!
Read something great! Write something pleasing to you!

WHAT DOES YOUR VISION BOARD LOOK LIKE?

Many people say it's a good idea to have a vision board for your life. When I was in college I started one but I called it my dream/prayer/goal journal! I loved taking pictures and writing and realized that if it was about my vision it needed to reflect my personality! A good friend of mine (who later became my room mate) gave me the photo book. I took pic's of the things that I wanted in my future. I took a picture of my campus and wrote that I wanted to graduate with a degree in Journalism and Public Relations. I snapped a photo of a car and a license and wrote that I wanted a car & license (I know I got my license when I was in college-so I'm a late bloomer). I wrote that I wanted a great boyfriend that I would one day marry and I put a greeting card of a couple in my book.

I put many more dreams/prayers/goals in my photo journal but I realize that you get the message. I planned it out. If you want something...it helps to make it reality by seeing it! Do you want to be a writer snap a photo or tear out a magazine article that you love...or design a board that fits your personality.
It is written that faith is being certain of what you hope for and do not see...If you don't see it in your own life yet...you can still be certain that your dream can happen to you.

Many people have achieved great things-why not you? Do you want to be a leader for diversity? Let a kid that is not well-liked sit next to you...Would you like to make the basketball team? Practice everyday... and make sure you try out!
Read something great-write something better and keep your vision top of mind!
-Tara :)

EVENTS TO COME...........

January 10th- I will be at the Novi Public Library teaching a Creative Writing Workshop
10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Cost: $15/person. Feel free to bring your journal for open critique (optional) This a fantastic way to improve your creative writing skills, meet with like-minded people, and gain great resources for getting published and breaking through writer's block!

Jan 17th-Calling all young people! This is a great forum for writers under 18. This is nothing like school! Meet me at the Novi Public Library from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Learn the best way to build great stories, poems and/or books. After this event participants will be able to share their work at an open mic at Solid Grounds Coffee House/Downtown Northville!

Jan. 20th is the deadline for the story contest! Be sure to mail in your entries!

Stay tuned on this website for more activities!!
If you would like to invite me to your school, church, etc. please email me at whoiamnotwhatiam@yahoo.com and I can quote you rates for your next event!

Feeling beautiful when my face says otherwise

“Beauty is internal” my voice sang out to the eager children on the playground.

I am the author that chants as if it is a mantra that true beauty matters…anything else is not as important. How often do I tell kids that true treasure is paramount and the outer is just extra. Do I feel that way now that my face has been plagued with an allergy that I can’t explain. The pretty smile that others compliment and I take for granted is missing because I am not smiling and when I do… is it really as pretty as it is when my lips are not swollen. My soul is so important! My internal being is the best part of me! My favorite feature in a person is their heart…the lessons keep presenting themselves because I have to practice what I preach more than just preach because it’s my practice. It is very easy to feel confident when I feel beautiful because my skin is clear or my smile is bright. I need to be confident in myself even when fate has thrown me a day to truly focus on my internal makeup.
Readers, today is a tough one for me. I have had an allergic reaction to something and I am taking medication to clear it up. The best medicine for me out of this experience is that I am able to really understand and identify with the desire to feel beautiful on the outside. I believe each day is given as a gift to discover something new and to grow. “Who I am not what I am” is not only my book it is a mindset that we as people (regardless of age) must truly embrace the meaning of self-esteem. This means that when we don’t have the best outfit on…we are great! When we get a bad grade…we are great! When we are the only one with freckles…we are great! Our greatness does not depend on our outer circumstances …it thrives on in spite of them!

You are what you read!

The new year brings on challenges for many people. I challenge you ______ (your name here!)

To read something of substance everyday this year. It can be a picture book, an Internet anecdote or a chapter of your favorite novel. Whatever you read make sure that it makes you a better person than before you opened it! This is your year and what you read can make it better.

Read something great because that's who you are!

A RESOLUTION TO WRITE

Many people are writing lists for the new year! What is your goal? If any of your goals have to do with writing or being published...this post is just for you. Many people have a great knack for writing but that's only half of the package. The other half is discipline. This trait will ensure that you build your skill by using your journal daily, reading others works, revising your own and taking classes/courses that feed your dream. Writing is a wonderful gift! The gift continues to give to others when steps are put into place to take your writing to the next level.
Make sure this year your resolution is more than a goal but an action!
Read something good....and write something better!

TIME WITH FRIENDS IS TIME WELL SPENT...

My best memories include those with people that I care about. Have you ever noticed that many of the award winning books, movies and plays are about friendship? I don't think that it is a coincidence. People truly enjoy stories that focus on relationships. If you are interested in new journal ideas. Write stories and poems about friendship. If you write an entry a day about someone that you care about you will accomplish two things. You can become a stronger writer because you will be focusing on one subject for an entire week and you will have great dialogue to share with those who are special to you. A great exercise is to write the same story/poem each day and revise it a bit everyday. This will most likely result in a great entry by the end of the week and you will have a great addition to your body of work.

Speaking of great bodies of work...you still have time to sign up for my Creative Writing Workshop on January 10th. The cost is $15/person and you can pay for it before you leave the site via paypal. These workshops are wonderful for building your journals, portfolios, and possibly your manuscripts!
Read something good and write something inspiring!