Allison Bottke, author of Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children, stops by Potpourri of Writing during her April Blog Tour. She's spreading the word about a topic she feels desperately needs to be addressed and leaves a message already striking a chord in hearts around the nation about adult children whose lives are out of control and who often come home to live.
MARY EMMA: Welcome, Allison, to Potpourri of Writing. Thank you for coming to share with us. Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children comes out of your own personal experience with your son. Please tell us about that.
ALLISON: For years I really thought I was helping my son. I wanted him to have the things I never had growing up. I love my son, and I didn’t want him to hurt—but sometimes pain is a natural result of the choices we make. For a long time I didn’t understand the part I was playing in the ongoing drama that had become my son’s life—I didn’t understand that I didn’t have to live in constant chaos and crisis because of his choices. When I chose to stop the insanity and start living a life of hope and healing my life changed. It’s a feeling I want other struggling parents and grandparents to experience. I want other parents to know that change is possible when we choose to stop the destructive cycle of enabling. And we can stop it. I know, because I’ve done it.
MARY EMMA: Why do you think so many parents struggle with enabling their adult children?
ALLISON: We don’t understand the difference between helping and enabling, that one heals and the other hurts. We don’t realize that we handicap our adult children when we don’t allow them to experience the consequences of their actions.
MARY EMMA: How can we determine whether we are helping versus enabling our children?
ALLISON: Helping is doing something for someone that he is not capable of doing himself.
Enabling is doing for someone things that he could and should be doing himself.
An enabler is a person who recognizes that a negative circumstance is occurring on a regular basis and yet continues to enable the person with the problem to persist with his detrimental behaviors. Simply, enabling creates an atmosphere in which our adult children can comfortably continue their unacceptable behavior.
MARY EMMA: What are some of the most common ways that parents enable their children?
ALLISON: Being the Bank of Mom and Dad, or the Bank of Grandma and Grandpa. Loaning money that is never repaid, buying things they can’t afford and don’t really need. Continually coming to their rescue so they don’t feel the pain—the consequences—of their actions and choices. Accepting excuses that we know are excuses—and in some instances are downright lies. Blaming ourselves for their problems. We have given too much and expected too little.
MARY EMMA: What are some things that parents can do to break the cycle of enabling?
ALLISON: Follow the six steps to S.A.N.I.T.Y.: Stop blaming yourself and stop the flow of money. Stop continually rescuing your adult children from one mess after another. Assemble a support group of other parents in the same situation. Nip excuses in the bud. Implement rules and boundaries. Trust your instincts. Yield everything to God, because you’re not in control. These six things can start a parent on the road to S.A.N.I.T.Y. in an insane situation that is spinning out of control. However, a key issue in breaking the cycle of enabling is to understand whose problem it really is.
MARY EMMA: What does this book accomplish that other books on the topic do not?
ALLISON: Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children will empower readers with a no holds barred six step S.A.N.I.T.Y. format, stating in black and white the parental behaviors that must STOP, along with identifying new habits to implement if change is to occur. Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children will identify the false conceptions parents believe about themselves and their adult children and will counter each lie of captivity with the truth that setting boundaries is not only a good thing—but a vital part of hope and healing. True stories from other enabling parents and grandparents are woven throughout the chapters. Discussions with and observations from licensed psychologists and psychiatrists are also included.
MARY EMMA: Tell us about the S.A.N.I.T.Y. Support Group Network you founded. How can people get involved?
ALLISON: The “A” step in S.A.N.I.T.Y. is to ASSEMBLE a support group. This is a vital component in being able to look at our situations more objectively. We have developed a powerful Companion Study Guide that can be read individually or in a group setting. This Companion Study Guide contains all the information you need to conduct a S.A.N.I.T.Y. Support group in your neighborhood or community. Visit our web site here to find out more: http://www.sanitysupport.com/blogtourguests.htm.
MARY EMMA: Thank you, Allison, for visiting Potpourri of Writing during your blog tour. Is there anything you'd like to add?
ALLISON: I encourage your readers to tell me what they think about Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children. I really do want to hear reader feedback. They can reach me at: SettingBoundaries@SanitySupport.com. Please be sure to visit our web site at http://www.sanitysupport.com/blogtourguests.htm where they will find additional resources for helping them on their road to S.A.N.I.T.Y. Remember to tell a friend in need and help save a life!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Fact or Fiction? How Can We Be Sure?
I found an interesting post, More Literary Hoaxes, on Heather Goldsmith's blog, A Creative Journal. She discusses some of the current literary hoaxes, whereby writers have tried to pass off fictionalized accounts as memoir or autobiography.
I left a comment at Heather's blog, but thought I'd include my thoughts here. Since I write a great deal of memoir in my "Country Kitchen" newspaper column, I began to wonder if my readers would think I made all this up. I attended a writers' group the other evening, and when the discussion turned to memoir as a genre, many were shaking their heads, wondering what to believe anymore.
We begin to wonder what's true and what isn't, don't we? Of course, when you write about your life, you may find you don't recall incidents exactly like others who experienced them with you. But these usually are minor things. If you fictionalize too much, you'll be caught up on it sometime.
When I was taking a children's writing workshop, we had to write about an incident in our childhood. The instructor liked mine but gave suggestions for making it more exciting. Since those details were fabricated, I was uncomfortable about writing it this way. So he suggested I make it a fiction story, incorporating the fact with fabrication. This turned out very well and sold to several children's magazines and appeared in an anthology. (I retained the rights so I could sell reprint and anthology rights.) Fiction based upon fact can be fun to write, but it should be labeled as such.
What do you think?
(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen
I left a comment at Heather's blog, but thought I'd include my thoughts here. Since I write a great deal of memoir in my "Country Kitchen" newspaper column, I began to wonder if my readers would think I made all this up. I attended a writers' group the other evening, and when the discussion turned to memoir as a genre, many were shaking their heads, wondering what to believe anymore.
We begin to wonder what's true and what isn't, don't we? Of course, when you write about your life, you may find you don't recall incidents exactly like others who experienced them with you. But these usually are minor things. If you fictionalize too much, you'll be caught up on it sometime.
When I was taking a children's writing workshop, we had to write about an incident in our childhood. The instructor liked mine but gave suggestions for making it more exciting. Since those details were fabricated, I was uncomfortable about writing it this way. So he suggested I make it a fiction story, incorporating the fact with fabrication. This turned out very well and sold to several children's magazines and appeared in an anthology. (I retained the rights so I could sell reprint and anthology rights.) Fiction based upon fact can be fun to write, but it should be labeled as such.
What do you think?
(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Author Dyan Garris Tours Home Biz Notes
Author Dyan Garris stopped by Home Biz Notes today on her blog tour as she promotes her book, Money and Manifesting. She has a unique way of approaching the topic of making money.
"It is not enough to think positively, repeat affirmations, and attract positive energy. We must implement and integrate this learning into our daily lives. This is the real secret of manifesting money. It is the real secret of manifesting anything."
Learn more about Dyan's evolution as a businesswoman to author. She has an interesting story to tell and shares her ideas at Home Biz Notes and in her book.
"It is not enough to think positively, repeat affirmations, and attract positive energy. We must implement and integrate this learning into our daily lives. This is the real secret of manifesting money. It is the real secret of manifesting anything."
Learn more about Dyan's evolution as a businesswoman to author. She has an interesting story to tell and shares her ideas at Home Biz Notes and in her book.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Blog Writing - For Fun, For Profit, For Promotion, For a Cause
Blog writing has taken off in the past few years and is used for various reasons. I'll mention a few of the reasons bloggers blog. Some of them interrelate.
FUN - Some bloggers write purely for fun, using their blog as an online journal. They may base much of their blogging around a particular theme, as my daughter does with her fabric art at Meandering Threads.
PROFIT - Bloggers write for pay, some for blogging networks, as I do for b5media, others for companies that need someone to maintain their blogs that provide information for customers.
If you'd like to see what it's like to blog for a network, check out my blogs at b5media (Alzheimer's Notes, Quilting and Patchwork, and Home Biz Notes).
PROMOTION - Authors are using blogs to promote their books and workshops; crafters promote their products on their web sites; businesses call attention to themselves and their products/services. You might not have a "store" on your blog, but you provide interesting information that will lead customers to your online and offline places of business.
A CAUSE - Bloggers write about topics that fire them up whether political, environmental, health, business, religious, as well as presumed and real slights and injuries. The blogosphere has become a powerful tool for people to voice their opinions and get their views across. Sometimes the power is used negatively, as well as positively.
I enjoy blogging, whether my personal blogs here at Blogger or those at b5media, so much that I teach workshops and give talks about Blog Writing so others can learn about this, too.
(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen
FUN - Some bloggers write purely for fun, using their blog as an online journal. They may base much of their blogging around a particular theme, as my daughter does with her fabric art at Meandering Threads.
PROFIT - Bloggers write for pay, some for blogging networks, as I do for b5media, others for companies that need someone to maintain their blogs that provide information for customers.
If you'd like to see what it's like to blog for a network, check out my blogs at b5media (Alzheimer's Notes, Quilting and Patchwork, and Home Biz Notes).
PROMOTION - Authors are using blogs to promote their books and workshops; crafters promote their products on their web sites; businesses call attention to themselves and their products/services. You might not have a "store" on your blog, but you provide interesting information that will lead customers to your online and offline places of business.
A CAUSE - Bloggers write about topics that fire them up whether political, environmental, health, business, religious, as well as presumed and real slights and injuries. The blogosphere has become a powerful tool for people to voice their opinions and get their views across. Sometimes the power is used negatively, as well as positively.
I enjoy blogging, whether my personal blogs here at Blogger or those at b5media, so much that I teach workshops and give talks about Blog Writing so others can learn about this, too.
(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Highlighting Gary Maccagnone and St. John of the Midfield
As he tours the blogosphere this month to promote his book, St. John of the Midfield, Garasamo "Gary" Maccagnone stops off at Potpourri of Writing today. He also is the author of the children's book, The Suburban Dragon and the collection of short stores entitled, The Affliction of Dreams.
After pursuing a college baseball career, business and marketing careers, coaching youth soccer and writing, Gary has combined soccer and writing in St. John of the Midfield. The idea for this book came about after Gary met former Bulgarian national soccer player, Jordan Mitkov.
In a synopsis of the book, we learn this book is:
An almost mystical story of Bobo Stoikov, one of the world's greatest soccer players, who escaptes death in communist Bulgaria to find the American Dream. Due to severe injury during Bobo's escape, he is unable to play once he arrives in America.
Though he finds peace and happiness in simply coaching soccer to youth travel teams, his eccentric ways of teaching and his success lead to a hate-filled rivalry, and eventually, his death.
To read an excerpt, visit Pump Up Your Book Promotion Virtual Book Tours.
You can visit his website at http://www.garasamomaccagnone.com/.
Thomnpson also conducted an interview with Gary at The Writer's Life, February 15 posting.
May you have much success with your tour, Gary, and your book.
After pursuing a college baseball career, business and marketing careers, coaching youth soccer and writing, Gary has combined soccer and writing in St. John of the Midfield. The idea for this book came about after Gary met former Bulgarian national soccer player, Jordan Mitkov.
In a synopsis of the book, we learn this book is:
An almost mystical story of Bobo Stoikov, one of the world's greatest soccer players, who escaptes death in communist Bulgaria to find the American Dream. Due to severe injury during Bobo's escape, he is unable to play once he arrives in America.
Though he finds peace and happiness in simply coaching soccer to youth travel teams, his eccentric ways of teaching and his success lead to a hate-filled rivalry, and eventually, his death.
To read an excerpt, visit Pump Up Your Book Promotion Virtual Book Tours.
You can visit his website at http://www.garasamomaccagnone.com/.
Thomnpson also conducted an interview with Gary at The Writer's Life, February 15 posting.
May you have much success with your tour, Gary, and your book.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
HOW ABOUT ENTERING THE "ALL ABOUT ALZHEIMER'S CARNIVAL?"
The second the All About Alzheimer’s Carnivals is open for entries at Alzheimer's Notes, a blog I write with Liz Lewis at b5media. Here is a platform for you to write your thoughts and feelings about Alzheimer’s and caregiving.
Entering carnivals (collections of articles about particular topics hosted at one blog) proves to be very enjoyable, I’ve found. If you’ve never entered one, simply follow the directions by clicking on the link above.
I’ve also posted some suggestions for carnivals at my Home Biz Notes blog that I write with Yvonne Russell. You may like to take a look at these.
Tweak Your Topic for Carnivals
Home Biz Owners - Join the Carnival!
Participating in Showcases and Carnivals
Entering Your Home Business Post in a Showcase
Reading the numerous entries at a carnival also provides enjoyment. So if you don’t enter (and if you do), come over to Liz’s post at Alzheimer's Notes on January 19, when she’ll publish all the entries.
(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen
Entering carnivals (collections of articles about particular topics hosted at one blog) proves to be very enjoyable, I’ve found. If you’ve never entered one, simply follow the directions by clicking on the link above.
I’ve also posted some suggestions for carnivals at my Home Biz Notes blog that I write with Yvonne Russell. You may like to take a look at these.
Tweak Your Topic for Carnivals
Home Biz Owners - Join the Carnival!
Participating in Showcases and Carnivals
Entering Your Home Business Post in a Showcase
Reading the numerous entries at a carnival also provides enjoyment. So if you don’t enter (and if you do), come over to Liz’s post at Alzheimer's Notes on January 19, when she’ll publish all the entries.
(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen
Friday, December 28, 2007
Achieve Your Dreams - Judi Moreo's Virtual Book Tour '08
Repeat this passage: "Every step I take brings me closer to the realization of my dreams” until you understand its powerful message. (from Judi Moreo's You Are More Than Enough Achievement Journal)
Writing this Achieve Your Dreams post for Judi Moreo's Virtual Book Tour '08 seems to fall right in line with previous posts on my blogs the past week or so:
* Writing & Blogging Goals for 2008, here on Potpourri of Writing for The Blog Writing Project: 78 Blogging Goals for 2008, at Daily Blog Tips.
*Goals for my children's writing, Specific Children's Book Writing Goals for 2008, published on Tales of a Children's Author.
* I've also posted something on my Home Biz Notes blog,suggesting you Enjoy the Journey as you pursue your dreams.
So what are my dreams for the coming year?
*I still want my castle where I can write in the tower and have secret rooms to discover with the grandchildren.
*I want to do more speaking to Alzheimer's caregivers.
*Teaching workshops and sharing my stories with children comes in there, too.
How do we go about achieving our dreams?
*Focusing
*Doing instead of simply dreaming
*Believing (Repeating: "Every step I take brings me closer to the realization of my dreams.")
*Setting a plan of action
*Get input whenever we feel we're going off track.
Then: GO FOR IT!
Judi's Tour Page: http://www.virtualbooktoursforauthors.blogspot.com/
(c)2007 Mary Emma Allen
Writing this Achieve Your Dreams post for Judi Moreo's Virtual Book Tour '08 seems to fall right in line with previous posts on my blogs the past week or so:
* Writing & Blogging Goals for 2008, here on Potpourri of Writing for The Blog Writing Project: 78 Blogging Goals for 2008, at Daily Blog Tips.
*Goals for my children's writing, Specific Children's Book Writing Goals for 2008, published on Tales of a Children's Author.
* I've also posted something on my Home Biz Notes blog,suggesting you Enjoy the Journey as you pursue your dreams.
So what are my dreams for the coming year?
*I still want my castle where I can write in the tower and have secret rooms to discover with the grandchildren.
*I want to do more speaking to Alzheimer's caregivers.
*Teaching workshops and sharing my stories with children comes in there, too.
How do we go about achieving our dreams?
*Focusing
*Doing instead of simply dreaming
*Believing (Repeating: "Every step I take brings me closer to the realization of my dreams.")
*Setting a plan of action
*Get input whenever we feel we're going off track.
Then: GO FOR IT!
Judi's Tour Page: http://www.virtualbooktoursforauthors.blogspot.com/
(c)2007 Mary Emma Allen
Thursday, December 27, 2007
SHOWCASING AUTHOR HOLLY FRETWELL
As Holly Fretwell makes her virtual tour around the blogosphere this month for her book, The Sky's NOT Falling, Why It's OK to Chill About Global Warming, she's stopping at Potpourri of Writing.
Holly concern about global warming and the environment puts her in league with other writers and speakers in today's world. However, Holly has a "different" view from many who are getting their names in the news and making a "big splash" in the sea of world media. She uses a common sense, well researched approach in her book for youngsters (but of interest to adults, too), The Sky's NOT Falling.
Yes, there are environmental situations to be concerned about, but Holly encourages optimism about the future of our planet and the solutions we can find with human innovation and creativity, along with individual choice, not political agendas. She shows kids 8-12 (and adults, too) that "It's human ingenuity and adaptability...not mindless fear of change...that is most likely to guanantee the Earth a healthy future."
Holly doesn't just spout her facts and reasons without valid background. She's a professor of natural resources policy at Montana State University and mother of two, who has a well researched view about global warming and the hype...a view with which other scientists now are beginning to concur.
For additional information about Holly's book and the topic of global warming, Controversy Sells for Holly Fretwell, Author of The Sky's NOT Falling at Book Marketing Buzz.
For a review of Holly's book, read: Book Review- A Different View on Global Warming.
(Published by World Ahead Media, Los Angeles, CA.; ISBN #9780976726944. The book includes fun facts and reading for ages 8 and above.)
Holly concern about global warming and the environment puts her in league with other writers and speakers in today's world. However, Holly has a "different" view from many who are getting their names in the news and making a "big splash" in the sea of world media. She uses a common sense, well researched approach in her book for youngsters (but of interest to adults, too), The Sky's NOT Falling.
Yes, there are environmental situations to be concerned about, but Holly encourages optimism about the future of our planet and the solutions we can find with human innovation and creativity, along with individual choice, not political agendas. She shows kids 8-12 (and adults, too) that "It's human ingenuity and adaptability...not mindless fear of change...that is most likely to guanantee the Earth a healthy future."
Holly doesn't just spout her facts and reasons without valid background. She's a professor of natural resources policy at Montana State University and mother of two, who has a well researched view about global warming and the hype...a view with which other scientists now are beginning to concur.
For additional information about Holly's book and the topic of global warming, Controversy Sells for Holly Fretwell, Author of The Sky's NOT Falling at Book Marketing Buzz.
For a review of Holly's book, read: Book Review- A Different View on Global Warming.
(Published by World Ahead Media, Los Angeles, CA.; ISBN #9780976726944. The book includes fun facts and reading for ages 8 and above.)
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
MY AUTHOR PROGRAMS & WORKSHOPS FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE
I teach a variety of writing workshops and author presentations for youngsters and adults.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: I adapt my programs to the age group and requests of the teachers. These range from reading and discussing my stories, illustrating stories, conducting writing workshops, and helping teachers develop lessons.
I also share the research and writing process of my works in progress:
Papa Goes To War, inspired by my ancestors during the Civil War
Uncle "Buffalo Bill" Mathewson - a picture book about my great great Uncle William Mathewson who operated trading posts on the Santa Fe Trail
Danger In The Mountains - a mystery set in the West
Sarah Jane's Daring Deed, a picture book about a pioneer girl.
(These often tie in with Social Studies classes)
Journalism and/or Writing on the Internet draw upon my experience as a professional journalist/newspaper columnist and blogger for a network
Poetry workshops also are popular.
AUDIENCE LEVELS - Pre-K, Elementary, Middle School. High School and Adult Education
TRAVEL - Yes - anywhere in the United States, with client paying travel costs and accommodations, unless I'm in that area for other business.
PUBLISHED WORKS:
Tales of Adventure & Discovery, a children's anthology which I also illustrated (An accompanying coloring book is also available.)
The Magic of Patchwork, a book about quiltmaking and its history with projects for young people and beginners
When We Become the Parent to Our Parents, the story of my mother's journey through Alzheimer'
More than 200 stories in children's magazines
Writing in Maine, New Hampshire & Vermont, a resource book for writers (out of print)
FEES: $100/1 HR; $200/1/2 day; $300/day, plus mileage beyond 50 miles from Plymouth, NH and accommodations if an overnight stay is involved.
CONTACT INFORMATION: me.allen@juno.com
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: I adapt my programs to the age group and requests of the teachers. These range from reading and discussing my stories, illustrating stories, conducting writing workshops, and helping teachers develop lessons.
I also share the research and writing process of my works in progress:
Papa Goes To War, inspired by my ancestors during the Civil War
Uncle "Buffalo Bill" Mathewson - a picture book about my great great Uncle William Mathewson who operated trading posts on the Santa Fe Trail
Danger In The Mountains - a mystery set in the West
Sarah Jane's Daring Deed, a picture book about a pioneer girl.
(These often tie in with Social Studies classes)
Journalism and/or Writing on the Internet draw upon my experience as a professional journalist/newspaper columnist and blogger for a network
Poetry workshops also are popular.
AUDIENCE LEVELS - Pre-K, Elementary, Middle School. High School and Adult Education
TRAVEL - Yes - anywhere in the United States, with client paying travel costs and accommodations, unless I'm in that area for other business.
PUBLISHED WORKS:
Tales of Adventure & Discovery, a children's anthology which I also illustrated (An accompanying coloring book is also available.)
The Magic of Patchwork, a book about quiltmaking and its history with projects for young people and beginners
When We Become the Parent to Our Parents, the story of my mother's journey through Alzheimer'
More than 200 stories in children's magazines
Writing in Maine, New Hampshire & Vermont, a resource book for writers (out of print)
FEES: $100/1 HR; $200/1/2 day; $300/day, plus mileage beyond 50 miles from Plymouth, NH and accommodations if an overnight stay is involved.
CONTACT INFORMATION: me.allen@juno.com
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Specific Writing Goals for 2008
Maybe if I write them down in my blog, I'll be more accountable.
I have one friend who is always asking me, "Have you finished your Uncle Buffalo Bill book yet? What about the children's picture book?"
I continually tell her, with a sheepish grin, "I'm working on them."
Sooooo......
1. Finish the book about my Uncle Buffalo Bill Mathewson, the original Buffalo Bill in the West.
2. Finish my Sarah Jane's Daring Deed picture book.
3. Finish the rough draft to Papa Goes to War, a Civil War era middle reader book based on my ancestors.
4. Develop the activities for these books and place them on my web sites.
5. Draft some of my other writing projects, but concentrate on them minimally until I have the above finished.
I have one friend who is always asking me, "Have you finished your Uncle Buffalo Bill book yet? What about the children's picture book?"
I continually tell her, with a sheepish grin, "I'm working on them."
Sooooo......
1. Finish the book about my Uncle Buffalo Bill Mathewson, the original Buffalo Bill in the West.
2. Finish my Sarah Jane's Daring Deed picture book.
3. Finish the rough draft to Papa Goes to War, a Civil War era middle reader book based on my ancestors.
4. Develop the activities for these books and place them on my web sites.
5. Draft some of my other writing projects, but concentrate on them minimally until I have the above finished.
Writing & Blogging Goals for 2008
As we approach 2008, many of us will think about goals, but how many will seriously write them down and then follow through with a strategy to make them work.
The Group Writing Project: 2008 Blogging Goals at Daily Blog Tips has me energized.
1. Develop this blog (Mary Emma's Potpourri of Writing) into a popular one with at least 40,000 readers per month.
2. Host at least one author on tour here per month.
3. Post at least 6 times per week. (It's been hit and miss for the most part.)
4. Develop here and on my other writing blogs strategies for letting people know about my writing workshops, online classes, and talks for groups.
5. Find a way to earn a monthly income from this blog. (So far that hasn't been part of my strategy as I've written here at Potpourri for fun, but not for profit.)
6. Teach 6 classes on blog writing this year, starting with writers' conferences and publicists' workshops.
7. Reach an average of 10 comments per post.
8. Join and become active on one online community
9. Learn about RSS
10. Become knowledgeable about the "techie" stuff that creates ratings. (Can you believe I've been blogging but don't know much about these?!)
(My blogs at b5media you may find of interest: Quilting and Patchwork, Home Biz Notes, and Alzheimer's Notes.)
The Group Writing Project: 2008 Blogging Goals at Daily Blog Tips has me energized.
1. Develop this blog (Mary Emma's Potpourri of Writing) into a popular one with at least 40,000 readers per month.
2. Host at least one author on tour here per month.
3. Post at least 6 times per week. (It's been hit and miss for the most part.)
4. Develop here and on my other writing blogs strategies for letting people know about my writing workshops, online classes, and talks for groups.
5. Find a way to earn a monthly income from this blog. (So far that hasn't been part of my strategy as I've written here at Potpourri for fun, but not for profit.)
6. Teach 6 classes on blog writing this year, starting with writers' conferences and publicists' workshops.
7. Reach an average of 10 comments per post.
8. Join and become active on one online community
9. Learn about RSS
10. Become knowledgeable about the "techie" stuff that creates ratings. (Can you believe I've been blogging but don't know much about these?!)
(My blogs at b5media you may find of interest: Quilting and Patchwork, Home Biz Notes, and Alzheimer's Notes.)
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
BOOK REVIEW - A DIFFERENT VIEW ON GLOBAL WARMING
With all the scary information out there about global warming, it's refreshing to read a book by a natural resources policy expert that presents a different view, one complete with common sense and factual information.
The Sky's NOT Falling (Why It's OK to Chill About Global Warming) is an alternative for young people and adults to the fear-inducing books published today. Author Holly Fretwell, a mother of two and professor of natural resources policy, provides a balanced look at environmental issues and global warming scare tactics. She presents these in an easy to read and understand format for ages 8 and above.
Yes, there are environmental situations to be concerned about, but Ms. Fretwell encourages optimism about the future of our planet and the solutions we can find with human innovation and creativity, along with individual choice, not political agendas.
Ms. Fretwell debunks some of the "facts" running rampant about the environment and global warming in today's world. For instance, you've probably seen the picture of the polar bear and cub, supposedly adrift on a piece of ice because of global warming. Actually the picture was taken as a general interest one a scientific expedition. The photographer called attention to it as a polar bear and her cub on an ice sculpture. Nothing was noted about global warming nor the bears being stranded. Yet the photo was taken out of context and used for propaganda purposes.
You'll certainly want to take a look at the facts in this book about global warming and see what's really going on in a world beset by global warming scare. Check out the truth before deciding "the sky is falling."
(Published by World Ahead Media, Los Angeles, CA.; ISBN #9780976726944. The book includes fun facts and reading for ages 8 and above.)
The Sky's NOT Falling (Why It's OK to Chill About Global Warming) is an alternative for young people and adults to the fear-inducing books published today. Author Holly Fretwell, a mother of two and professor of natural resources policy, provides a balanced look at environmental issues and global warming scare tactics. She presents these in an easy to read and understand format for ages 8 and above.
Yes, there are environmental situations to be concerned about, but Ms. Fretwell encourages optimism about the future of our planet and the solutions we can find with human innovation and creativity, along with individual choice, not political agendas.
Ms. Fretwell debunks some of the "facts" running rampant about the environment and global warming in today's world. For instance, you've probably seen the picture of the polar bear and cub, supposedly adrift on a piece of ice because of global warming. Actually the picture was taken as a general interest one a scientific expedition. The photographer called attention to it as a polar bear and her cub on an ice sculpture. Nothing was noted about global warming nor the bears being stranded. Yet the photo was taken out of context and used for propaganda purposes.
You'll certainly want to take a look at the facts in this book about global warming and see what's really going on in a world beset by global warming scare. Check out the truth before deciding "the sky is falling."
(Published by World Ahead Media, Los Angeles, CA.; ISBN #9780976726944. The book includes fun facts and reading for ages 8 and above.)
Saturday, December 08, 2007
STORIES THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE
When you're writing, do you hope your stories will make a difference?
*Brighten someone's day
*Give them encouragement
*Let them know someone else has faced a particular challenge
*Make them laugh
*Entertained them
*Made them think about themselves and their lives
*Made them reminisce
*Help solve a problem
*Help change the world
Why do you write? These are some things to consider.
I hope my writing will make a difference, for the better in someone's life...somewhere.
*Brighten someone's day
*Give them encouragement
*Let them know someone else has faced a particular challenge
*Make them laugh
*Entertained them
*Made them think about themselves and their lives
*Made them reminisce
*Help solve a problem
*Help change the world
Why do you write? These are some things to consider.
I hope my writing will make a difference, for the better in someone's life...somewhere.
Saturday, December 01, 2007
THE TRADITION OF BEDTIME STORIES
Bedtime stories have been a tradition for at least three generations in my family. I recall my mom reading to my sister, brothers and me...Heidi, Robert Louis Stevenson's A Child's Garden of Verses poetry, and Robinson Crusoe come to mind.
My husband and I took turns reading to our daughter. He often didn't at bedtime, but while I was preparing supper. "Daddy, you skipped that part!" I'd hear her exclaim when Jim tried to get through a book more quickly.
My daughter and son-in-law, both avid readers, started reading to their children while they were infants. Reading and children go hand in hand in our household...we all still bury ourselves in a book whenever we can in spite of today's electronic world.
Stories in the Kitchen
Although most of the bedtime story reading of my youth occurred in the evening in one of our bedrooms (there were four of us children) as we sprawled on the bed. However, on cold winter evenings, Mother gathered us in front of the wood burning cookstove in the kitchen (a favorite family congregating place) and read stories. While she read, we might munch on cookies and milk or cocoa.
Reading evolves into cooking, as children learn to ponder over recipes and mix up family meals. I recall making my first cake before I fully learned to read. Mother was ill and I decided, with the help of my younger siblings, I would make a cake for supper, along with fried potatoes and eggs.
At six years old, I couldn't decipher everything in the recipe book, so decided to dispense with it and put together the ingredients I'd seen Mother use. I recall my sister and brothers around me as we stirred the batter together, then poured it into layer cake pans.
Since the wood stove oven was the only one we had, it was only natural to bake the cake there. We must have stoked the stove and read the gauge on the front of the oven door adequately. At any rate, the cake turned out fine....except it was fairly flat.
Mother, when she saw it at supper, praised our efforts, as did Father and the hired man. It was only in later years that Mother told me she concluded I'd left out the baking powder.
(c)2007 Mary Emma Allen
(I enjoy researching and writing about holiday and family memories along with teaching workshops in Family History Writing. I conduct these online as well as in person at workshops.)
My husband and I took turns reading to our daughter. He often didn't at bedtime, but while I was preparing supper. "Daddy, you skipped that part!" I'd hear her exclaim when Jim tried to get through a book more quickly.
My daughter and son-in-law, both avid readers, started reading to their children while they were infants. Reading and children go hand in hand in our household...we all still bury ourselves in a book whenever we can in spite of today's electronic world.
Stories in the Kitchen
Although most of the bedtime story reading of my youth occurred in the evening in one of our bedrooms (there were four of us children) as we sprawled on the bed. However, on cold winter evenings, Mother gathered us in front of the wood burning cookstove in the kitchen (a favorite family congregating place) and read stories. While she read, we might munch on cookies and milk or cocoa.
Reading evolves into cooking, as children learn to ponder over recipes and mix up family meals. I recall making my first cake before I fully learned to read. Mother was ill and I decided, with the help of my younger siblings, I would make a cake for supper, along with fried potatoes and eggs.
At six years old, I couldn't decipher everything in the recipe book, so decided to dispense with it and put together the ingredients I'd seen Mother use. I recall my sister and brothers around me as we stirred the batter together, then poured it into layer cake pans.
Since the wood stove oven was the only one we had, it was only natural to bake the cake there. We must have stoked the stove and read the gauge on the front of the oven door adequately. At any rate, the cake turned out fine....except it was fairly flat.
Mother, when she saw it at supper, praised our efforts, as did Father and the hired man. It was only in later years that Mother told me she concluded I'd left out the baking powder.
(c)2007 Mary Emma Allen
(I enjoy researching and writing about holiday and family memories along with teaching workshops in Family History Writing. I conduct these online as well as in person at workshops.)
Sunday, November 04, 2007
WHET YOUR APPETITE WITH "NOVEL" FOODS
Often we snack while reading, but we also can whet our appetites with mention of the foods we find in books we're devouring. Sometimes there are complete recipes. In other cases, we'll find brief a description of a regional food that entices us to search for the recipe. Also, some of these food references may bring memories and recipes to mind.
For instance, I'm reading a mystery book set in eastern Maine. During the course of a discussion in the heroine's kitchen, her friend begins peeling apples and proceeds to make an apple cake which she serves with vanilla ice cream.
As I read, I began to get hungry for Nobby Apple Cake. a recipe I often make in autumn. The author casually mentioned other regional recipes during the course of the book.
Some books, like the mysteries by Diane Mott Davidson, naturally include food, as well as the actual recipes. Since Ms. Davidson's books became popular, you find more of this type.
Foods in Children's Books
Children's books also contain recipes that give the flavor of the area or era. While substitute teaching the other day, I read a chapter from "The Witch of Blackbird Pond" by Elizabeth George Speare.
Kit found living with her cousins in Puritan Connecticut very different from life in Barbados. Learning to cook was just one of her many challenges. When making Corn Pudding for the family's breakfast, she became impatient. Instead of slowly spooning the cornmeal into the boiling water, Kit finally dumped in the whole cup. A gelatinous mess resulted which the family silently ate.
I mentioned to the students that Corn Pudding or Cornmeal Mush was a standby when I was growing up. Sometimes we had it for breakfast, alternating between oatmeal and cream of wheat. Mother also prepared this dish for Sunday supper instead of serving a full meal after the large dinner.
I liked it when Mother had some lumps in the mush. She was frustrated because it wasn't completely smooth. However, she didn't have the mess that Kit did!
Foods Add Authenticity
Referring to foods the characters are eating, adds authenticity to the story background. This doesn't have to be a detailed description, just mention of grabbing an oatmeal cookie filled with raisins, stirring up someone's favorite chocolate cake, making apple pancakes for breakfast. You'll often receive a sense of region and season this way, too.
Because of my culinary interests (I write a weekly cooking column for newspapers), I sometimes jot down the food and recipes mentioned in books, so keep a note pad beside me.
On the blog for my story, "Sarah Jane's Daring Deed," (http://sarahjane-pioneergirl.blogspot.com/ ), I plan to add actual recipes my readers can try. Because this is a pioneer story, I can see a recipe for Cornmeal Mush.
APPLE FRITTERS - a recipe from my childhood. This also might be a Sarah Jane recipe (although I didn't grow up in Sarah Jane's era!).
Beat 2 eggs. Mix and sift 2 1/2 cups flour, 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon sugar. Add 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup cream, 1 cup peeled, chopped apples and eggs to the dry ingredients; stir. Drop onto hot greased griddle and cook as you would pancakes.
(c)2007 Mary Emma Allen
For instance, I'm reading a mystery book set in eastern Maine. During the course of a discussion in the heroine's kitchen, her friend begins peeling apples and proceeds to make an apple cake which she serves with vanilla ice cream.
As I read, I began to get hungry for Nobby Apple Cake. a recipe I often make in autumn. The author casually mentioned other regional recipes during the course of the book.
Some books, like the mysteries by Diane Mott Davidson, naturally include food, as well as the actual recipes. Since Ms. Davidson's books became popular, you find more of this type.
Foods in Children's Books
Children's books also contain recipes that give the flavor of the area or era. While substitute teaching the other day, I read a chapter from "The Witch of Blackbird Pond" by Elizabeth George Speare.
Kit found living with her cousins in Puritan Connecticut very different from life in Barbados. Learning to cook was just one of her many challenges. When making Corn Pudding for the family's breakfast, she became impatient. Instead of slowly spooning the cornmeal into the boiling water, Kit finally dumped in the whole cup. A gelatinous mess resulted which the family silently ate.
I mentioned to the students that Corn Pudding or Cornmeal Mush was a standby when I was growing up. Sometimes we had it for breakfast, alternating between oatmeal and cream of wheat. Mother also prepared this dish for Sunday supper instead of serving a full meal after the large dinner.
I liked it when Mother had some lumps in the mush. She was frustrated because it wasn't completely smooth. However, she didn't have the mess that Kit did!
Foods Add Authenticity
Referring to foods the characters are eating, adds authenticity to the story background. This doesn't have to be a detailed description, just mention of grabbing an oatmeal cookie filled with raisins, stirring up someone's favorite chocolate cake, making apple pancakes for breakfast. You'll often receive a sense of region and season this way, too.
Because of my culinary interests (I write a weekly cooking column for newspapers), I sometimes jot down the food and recipes mentioned in books, so keep a note pad beside me.
On the blog for my story, "Sarah Jane's Daring Deed," (http://sarahjane-pioneergirl.blogspot.com/ ), I plan to add actual recipes my readers can try. Because this is a pioneer story, I can see a recipe for Cornmeal Mush.
APPLE FRITTERS - a recipe from my childhood. This also might be a Sarah Jane recipe (although I didn't grow up in Sarah Jane's era!).
Beat 2 eggs. Mix and sift 2 1/2 cups flour, 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon sugar. Add 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup cream, 1 cup peeled, chopped apples and eggs to the dry ingredients; stir. Drop onto hot greased griddle and cook as you would pancakes.
(c)2007 Mary Emma Allen
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
NICOLA BEAUMONT & LADY SOMERSET ON TOUR
Nicola Beaumont is showcased today at Potpourri of Writing. Her latest book, The Resurrection of Lady Somerset, gives you mystery and romance in a English regency era setting. The author, with an English mother and American father, has spent much of her life in Britain, but currently lives in the United States.
During October, Nicola has been touring the blogosphere on her first virtual book tour with Pump Up Your Book Promotion Virtual Book Tours. At the book tour blog, you'll find a synopsis and sample chapter of The Resurrection of Lady Somerset, that lady with a mysterious past. This novel has been receiving rave reviews.
To learn more about Nicola and her many talents, visit her web site, iNicola. She shares with you how she had two releases on the same day in September and a short story in July. Nicola also has a CD out, Prayer of the Heart.
Also keep up to date with Nicola's world at her blog.
During October, Nicola has been touring the blogosphere on her first virtual book tour with Pump Up Your Book Promotion Virtual Book Tours. At the book tour blog, you'll find a synopsis and sample chapter of The Resurrection of Lady Somerset, that lady with a mysterious past. This novel has been receiving rave reviews.
To learn more about Nicola and her many talents, visit her web site, iNicola. She shares with you how she had two releases on the same day in September and a short story in July. Nicola also has a CD out, Prayer of the Heart.
Also keep up to date with Nicola's world at her blog.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
SHOBHAN BANTWAL SHOWCASED AT POTPOURRI OF WRITING
Shobhan Bantwal, author of The Dowry Bride, takes a virtual tour of the blogosphere this month and stops by Potpourri of Writing. She was born and raised in India and came to the United States as a young bride, the result of an arranged marriage. Her mainstream women's fiction book, The Dowry Bride, was published by Kensington last month.
To read a synopsis and excerpt of The Dowry Bride, visit Pump Up Your Bok Promotioon Virtual Book Tours. Learn about Megha, as she realizes that her dowry isn't enough and her life is in danger.
Read more about Shobhan, her life and her writing at her web site.
I found Shobhan's photo gallery of interest, particularly those about a traditional Indian wedding.
Shobhan also relates how she came to write The Dowry Bride about the subject of dowry deaths. Through this book we learn about a culture of another country, yet are entertained at the same time.
To read a synopsis and excerpt of The Dowry Bride, visit Pump Up Your Bok Promotioon Virtual Book Tours. Learn about Megha, as she realizes that her dowry isn't enough and her life is in danger.
Read more about Shobhan, her life and her writing at her web site.
I found Shobhan's photo gallery of interest, particularly those about a traditional Indian wedding.
Shobhan also relates how she came to write The Dowry Bride about the subject of dowry deaths. Through this book we learn about a culture of another country, yet are entertained at the same time.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
STEVEN REILLY ON TOUR THIS MONTH
Steven M. Reilly tours the blogosphere this month with his book, The Fat Lady Never Sings: How a High School Football Team Found Redemption on the Baseball Diamond and is featured at Potpourri of Writing today.
Intriguing title isn't it? And Steve has written an intriguing story about this high school football team. Read a synopsis and excerpt at Pump Up Your Book Promotion. He's a baseball coach and practicing attorney who actually coached the team in this book.
Described as a sports memoir, The Fat Lady Never Sings relates the true story about the 1992 Red Raider baseball team of Derby, Connecticut. Steve was assistant coach at the time.
For more information, visit Steve's web site . Also take the poll and express your opinion regarding who should play Ben Bartone in the movie version of the book.
(A great book for the young sports enthusiasts in your life... and for adults as well.)
Intriguing title isn't it? And Steve has written an intriguing story about this high school football team. Read a synopsis and excerpt at Pump Up Your Book Promotion. He's a baseball coach and practicing attorney who actually coached the team in this book.
Described as a sports memoir, The Fat Lady Never Sings relates the true story about the 1992 Red Raider baseball team of Derby, Connecticut. Steve was assistant coach at the time.
For more information, visit Steve's web site . Also take the poll and express your opinion regarding who should play Ben Bartone in the movie version of the book.
(A great book for the young sports enthusiasts in your life... and for adults as well.)
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
CAROL O'DELL WRITES ABOUT CARING FOR HER MOTHER
Carol O'Dell, author of Mothering Mother, visited my b5media blog, Alzheimer's Notes, recently to discuss her book and share why she decided to write it. This is a humorous and heartbreaking memoir about Carol's caring for her mother. Carol faced situations that many of us have in caring for a family member afflicted with Alzheimer's.
If you'd like to read an excerpt, visit Carol's web site.
You'll find my interview of Carol at Alzheimer's Notes, where she stopped during her virtual blog tour.
If you'd like to read an excerpt, visit Carol's web site.
You'll find my interview of Carol at Alzheimer's Notes, where she stopped during her virtual blog tour.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
DIANE WOLFE ON TOUR
Author Diane Wolfe tours the web during the month of October, promoting another of her Circle of Friends books. This one is Mike: The Circle of Friends, Book IV.
To read a chapter, visit First Chapters.
You'll find a synopsis and excerpt at Pump Up Your Book Promotion.
Diane writes for young adults and her Circle of Friends series which "focuses on pursuit of dreams and the overcoming of obstacles." Her books are meant to inspire as well as entertain as this Circle of Friends face obstacles and learn how to overcome the challenges of life.
Also visit Diane's web site and learn about her circle of young friends and fans, her tour schedule (she tours in person as well as around the blogosphere), a podcast, and her books.
At Diane's Circle of Friends blog, you'll receive daily updates.
Check out Diane, her life and her books...get set to be inspired!
To read a chapter, visit First Chapters.
You'll find a synopsis and excerpt at Pump Up Your Book Promotion.
Diane writes for young adults and her Circle of Friends series which "focuses on pursuit of dreams and the overcoming of obstacles." Her books are meant to inspire as well as entertain as this Circle of Friends face obstacles and learn how to overcome the challenges of life.
Also visit Diane's web site and learn about her circle of young friends and fans, her tour schedule (she tours in person as well as around the blogosphere), a podcast, and her books.
At Diane's Circle of Friends blog, you'll receive daily updates.
Check out Diane, her life and her books...get set to be inspired!
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