Accepting Submissions:
Horror Tree is taking submissions for Nightscript, Volume 2. Strange tales. 2000-7000 words. Pays $30 and a contributor copy. Deadline February 28.
Independent Legions Publishing is taking submissions for The Beauty of Death. Horror. There are already big names attached. 4500-7500 words. Pays $100. Deadline March 30.
Pentimento is taking submissions for their journal. Essays and fiction written by someone with a disability, or someone involved in the disabled community (family member, caregiver, special educator.) Up to 6000 words. Pays $25 to $250. Deadline March 31.
MiFi Writers is taking submissions for Revolution. Speculative fiction and art. 2000 to 12,000 words. Pays $.01/word up to $50. Deadline March 31.
Chicken Soup for the Soul is taking personal stories for Dreams & Synchronicities. Up to 1200 words. True stories only. Pays $200. Deadline March 31.
All the King's Men is looking for stories matching the theme "sometimes it's impossible to mend what has been broken" and the background. No length constraints. You must pitch, not submit your piece. Pays $.04/word. Deadline March 31.
Tree Lion Press is taking submissions of speculative fiction for The Land of Dust and Bones. Weird Western stories. 500-10,000 words. Pays $5 advance, plus royalties. Deadline March 31.
The ND Review is taking submissions of prose. They like it to take on big issues. Pays a small gratuity that is not specified. Deadline March 31.
Kaleidotrope is taking submissions of speculative fiction. 250-10,000 words. Fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and artwork. Pays $.01/word for fiction and nonfiction, $5 for poetry. Deadline March 31.
Contests:
DL Hammons has brought Write Club back. This is a writing competition where anonymous 500 word entries are put against each other, with readers voting on the winner. They're taking entries between February 1 and February 26. The contest begins March 7.
Anything to add or share? Any of these of interest?
May you find your Muse.
Showing posts with label contest. Show all posts
Showing posts with label contest. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
What do You See? & Links
Since I'm missing my hikes right now, I figured I'd post more pictures from my previous hike in Ute Valley Park.
It's impossible to get lost when you can always find Pikes Peak from the high points.
Now, what do you see in these rocks? Prairie dogs?
How about in this one? Do you see the smiley face?
Accepting Submissions:
Ideomancer seeks speculative fiction and poetry that are unique and non-traditional. Up to 7000 words. Pays $.03/word for fiction, $6 per poem. Submissions close July 31.
New Myths is looking for speculative fiction (but no graphic horror). Up to 10,000 words. Also take non-fiction dealing with fantasy/sci-fi and writing, and poetry. Pays between $20 to $50, depending upon story type. Deadline July 31.
Red Moon Romance is seeking submissions of short cowboy romance (American west or Australian outback) for an anthology. 3000-20,000 words. Can be mixed with other genres, such as paranormal, steampunk, sci-fi, etc. Pays in profit share and paperback copy. Deadline July 31.
WolfSinger Publications is seeking speculative fiction stories about trolls, gargoyles and other bit part fantasy creatures for an anthology entitled "Misunderstood." 1000-6000 words. Pays $5, plus royalties. Deadline August 1.
Dreamspinner Press is seeking short romance stories concerning end of year holidays (Christmas, boxing day, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Yule, etc.) Must have a happy ending. 5000-18,000 words. Pay isn't specified, but it's for an anthology, so likely royalties. Deadline August 1.
Helen Literary is open for submissions of short fiction with the theme "Animal." 500-5000 words for fiction. Lengths vary for poetry, non-fiction. Also take artwork. Pay is between $2 and $10, plus a subscription to the journal. Deadline August 1.
Contests:
The First Line is holding their quarterly contest. Use the first line provided (currently "The old neighborhood was nearly unrecognizable.") to write a story of between 300-5000 words. No entry fee. Winners are not ranked--they are published. Pays $25-50 for fiction. Pay varies for poetry and non-fiction. Deadline August 1.
Blog Stuff:
The Cover Girls started a new blog hop in May. Fast Five Friday is all about lists. Each Friday there is a new topic; you write down a list of five things in response to it. You do not have to participate every week--just pick and choose the topics that interest you.
Of Interest:
The Clarion 2015 Write-A-Thon is going on now through August 1. You can support other writers or be a participant. Participants ask folks to sponsor them in a write-a-thon.
Plasma Frequency Magazine is closing its doors after bank fraud wiped them out. There is little hope of them getting their money back. Hopefully they can do a Kickstarter or something, but I haven't seen that mentioned.
What do you see in the rocks? Do you play this game when you go for a walk or hike? Any of these links of interest to you? Experience with any of these publications? Anything to share? Publishing news?
May you find your Muse.
It's impossible to get lost when you can always find Pikes Peak from the high points.
Now, what do you see in these rocks? Prairie dogs?
How about in this one? Do you see the smiley face?
Accepting Submissions:
Ideomancer seeks speculative fiction and poetry that are unique and non-traditional. Up to 7000 words. Pays $.03/word for fiction, $6 per poem. Submissions close July 31.
New Myths is looking for speculative fiction (but no graphic horror). Up to 10,000 words. Also take non-fiction dealing with fantasy/sci-fi and writing, and poetry. Pays between $20 to $50, depending upon story type. Deadline July 31.
Red Moon Romance is seeking submissions of short cowboy romance (American west or Australian outback) for an anthology. 3000-20,000 words. Can be mixed with other genres, such as paranormal, steampunk, sci-fi, etc. Pays in profit share and paperback copy. Deadline July 31.
WolfSinger Publications is seeking speculative fiction stories about trolls, gargoyles and other bit part fantasy creatures for an anthology entitled "Misunderstood." 1000-6000 words. Pays $5, plus royalties. Deadline August 1.
Dreamspinner Press is seeking short romance stories concerning end of year holidays (Christmas, boxing day, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Yule, etc.) Must have a happy ending. 5000-18,000 words. Pay isn't specified, but it's for an anthology, so likely royalties. Deadline August 1.
Helen Literary is open for submissions of short fiction with the theme "Animal." 500-5000 words for fiction. Lengths vary for poetry, non-fiction. Also take artwork. Pay is between $2 and $10, plus a subscription to the journal. Deadline August 1.
Contests:
The First Line is holding their quarterly contest. Use the first line provided (currently "The old neighborhood was nearly unrecognizable.") to write a story of between 300-5000 words. No entry fee. Winners are not ranked--they are published. Pays $25-50 for fiction. Pay varies for poetry and non-fiction. Deadline August 1.
Blog Stuff:
The Cover Girls started a new blog hop in May. Fast Five Friday is all about lists. Each Friday there is a new topic; you write down a list of five things in response to it. You do not have to participate every week--just pick and choose the topics that interest you.
Of Interest:
The Clarion 2015 Write-A-Thon is going on now through August 1. You can support other writers or be a participant. Participants ask folks to sponsor them in a write-a-thon.
Plasma Frequency Magazine is closing its doors after bank fraud wiped them out. There is little hope of them getting their money back. Hopefully they can do a Kickstarter or something, but I haven't seen that mentioned.
What do you see in the rocks? Do you play this game when you go for a walk or hike? Any of these links of interest to you? Experience with any of these publications? Anything to share? Publishing news?
May you find your Muse.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Tree of Life Book Trailer & Links
Today's [Mostly] Wordless Wednesday is the Tree of Life book trailer!
You can purchase Tree of Life, which includes my story set to the musical piece Turning Point, at Amazon. Only $.99 for the collection, and all proceeds go to the Downey Education Fund, which was set up for Tina's boys.
Now for some links.
Accepting Submissions:
River Styx is accepting submissions by mail through November 30. They accept short stories, poems, plays, and essays. Payment is in the form of cash, plus contributor copies, plus a one-year subscription.
Wolf Willow Journal is accepting submissions for their winter issue, with the theme star-crossed lovers. They accept flash fiction, short fiction, non-fiction, photography, and artwork. Pays cash depending upon type of submission. Winter issue deadline November 30.
Vine Leaves Literary Journal closes for submissions to their January issue November 30. Prose and script up to 800 words, poetry, artwork and photography. Pays 3.50 EURO per edition.
Bad Dream Entertainment is open to submissions of short fiction, novellas, novels, and articles. Submissions close November 30. Dark speculative fiction. This is a paying market.
ZYZZYVA is accepting submissions of non-fiction, short fiction, and poetry through November 30. Also, artwork. Payment is not detailed, and they only accept mailed submissions.
The Future Fire is seeking short works for their anthology, Accessing the Future. Deadline November 30. Speculative fiction. 2500-7500 words. Pays $.06/word.
The Knicknackery is accepting poetry, short fiction, non-fiction, and artwork. All genres. Token payment.
Cracked is looking for writers for their humor site. Paying market, though payment is not specified. Cracked is free to read, so you can research the types of articles they accept.
Strange House Books is accepting your weird flash fiction for Strange Story Saturdays. Pay is not detailed. Open submissions.
Contests:
The Hermaneutic Chaos Literary Journal is holding their first annual Jane Lumley Prize for Emerging Writers. Deadline November 30. This year entries must be poetry. It will alternate each year between poetry and prose. First prize is $300 and publication.
What do you think of the Tree of Life trailer? Any of these links interest you? Anything to add? Publication news?
May you find your Muse.
You can purchase Tree of Life, which includes my story set to the musical piece Turning Point, at Amazon. Only $.99 for the collection, and all proceeds go to the Downey Education Fund, which was set up for Tina's boys.
Now for some links.
Accepting Submissions:
River Styx is accepting submissions by mail through November 30. They accept short stories, poems, plays, and essays. Payment is in the form of cash, plus contributor copies, plus a one-year subscription.
Wolf Willow Journal is accepting submissions for their winter issue, with the theme star-crossed lovers. They accept flash fiction, short fiction, non-fiction, photography, and artwork. Pays cash depending upon type of submission. Winter issue deadline November 30.
Vine Leaves Literary Journal closes for submissions to their January issue November 30. Prose and script up to 800 words, poetry, artwork and photography. Pays 3.50 EURO per edition.
Bad Dream Entertainment is open to submissions of short fiction, novellas, novels, and articles. Submissions close November 30. Dark speculative fiction. This is a paying market.
ZYZZYVA is accepting submissions of non-fiction, short fiction, and poetry through November 30. Also, artwork. Payment is not detailed, and they only accept mailed submissions.
The Future Fire is seeking short works for their anthology, Accessing the Future. Deadline November 30. Speculative fiction. 2500-7500 words. Pays $.06/word.
The Knicknackery is accepting poetry, short fiction, non-fiction, and artwork. All genres. Token payment.
Cracked is looking for writers for their humor site. Paying market, though payment is not specified. Cracked is free to read, so you can research the types of articles they accept.
Strange House Books is accepting your weird flash fiction for Strange Story Saturdays. Pay is not detailed. Open submissions.
Contests:
The Hermaneutic Chaos Literary Journal is holding their first annual Jane Lumley Prize for Emerging Writers. Deadline November 30. This year entries must be poetry. It will alternate each year between poetry and prose. First prize is $300 and publication.
What do you think of the Tree of Life trailer? Any of these links interest you? Anything to add? Publication news?
May you find your Muse.
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
[Mostly] Wordless Wednesday - Cover Mania! & Links
For [Mostly] Wordless Wednesday, I thought I'd re-post the various book covers from the releases/reveals in the last month in case anyone missed them.
Starting today, Jamie Ayres is hosting a Can You Handle the Truth Book Release Blog Fest to celebrate her book, 18 Truths. Play a little 2 Truths and a Lie in bloggy form. This goes through the 28th, and I believe you can still sign up for it.
Michelle at Writer-in-Transit is hosting the Ubuntu Bloghop, February 18-21 (so you can pick the day of your posting). She's looking for a variety of creative posts to express the idea of ubuntu (defined on her blog).
Anything you'd like to share? Anything of interest above? Have you submitted anything so far in 2014?
May you find your Muse.
Fantastic covers!
Now for some links.
Accepting Submissions:
Coeur de Lion Publishing is open for submissions. They're looking for speculative fiction, especially science fiction. Each issue of the magazine will be available to read free online. Pays AUD $100 per story. Current reading period closes February 22.
Despumation Press is open for submissions through February 28. The current issue will be song stories, stories based on your favorite heavy metal song. Pays $10, plus a hard copy.
Fablecroft Publishing is taking submissions for their unthemed seculative fiction anthology, Insert Title Here. 2000 to 12000 words. Submissions close February 28. Payment is AUD $75, plus a contributor copy.
April Moon Books is putting out an anthology entitled Amok!, part of the Short Sharp Shocks series. They seek short stories about someone running amok, for all the various reasons that might occur. Payment is a contributor copy, plus there are five Editor's Choice Awards of $30 each.
Contests:
Whiteduck Publishing is seeking submissions from First Nation, Metis, and Inuit writers for Thunderbird Stories. Deadline February 28. First prize $1000.
Blog Hops:
Starting today, Jamie Ayres is hosting a Can You Handle the Truth Book Release Blog Fest to celebrate her book, 18 Truths. Play a little 2 Truths and a Lie in bloggy form. This goes through the 28th, and I believe you can still sign up for it.
Michelle at Writer-in-Transit is hosting the Ubuntu Bloghop, February 18-21 (so you can pick the day of your posting). She's looking for a variety of creative posts to express the idea of ubuntu (defined on her blog).
Anything you'd like to share? Anything of interest above? Have you submitted anything so far in 2014?
May you find your Muse.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
[Mostly] Wordless Wednesday - Don't Tell Schrodinger & Links
A fun one today. You want to keep both kids and cats occupied? Get an empty box. Simple and straight forward. Just don't tell Schrodinger.
And because I showed her all mean and vicious looking (she was stalking a toy), here's her bookish side, taken as I was FINALLY unpacking my office this week!! (Note, there are boxes involved in this, too. Cats just really like boxes.)
And now for some links!
Please note: I have not personally vetted any of these publications or contests, etc. I merely pass along information I've found. Please always research and check out publications before submitting to them.
Accepting Submissions:
Pulp Empire and Metahuman Press have announced a set of ongoing anthologies accepting submissions. They're open until filled, except the Doc Claus Christmas anthology, which has a deadline of October 15. 10-15% of profits go to authors as royalties.
Vagabundo Magazine is seeking bloggers/columnists to write about adventure travel. You will not be paid as a blogger, but you will get dibs on writing columns, which do pay. They also expect photos with your stories.
Long Count Press is putting together an anthology with the subject of dying earth sword and sorcery fantasy. Deadline is October 31. Pays $20, plus e-book copy, plus royalties.
Kraken Press is seeking submissions for their 50's themed horror and dark fantasy anthology, American Nightmare. Short stories only. Deadline October 31. Pays in pro rata share of 15% of list price, plus one contributor copy.
Contests:
Cease, Cows is holding a flash fiction contest. Guest judge is Stephen Graham Jones. Cost is $5 to enter. 1000 words or less. Prizes will be awarded as a percentage of the money brought in for the contest (details on the website). I don't usually pass along contests that have an entry fee these days, but I know the judge and he's an honest guy. Deadline October 15.
Kazka Press holds a monthly flash fiction contest entitled 713 Flash. The October deadline is October 20, with a theme of Out of Time. Pays $15 per accepted story.
Bad Day Books is holding their 2013 Assent Publishing Rogue Writing Contest. Novella and novel submissions in horror, thriller, suspense, and apocalyptic. Deadline October 31. The prize pack is pretty phenomenal, including a publishing contract, marketing, author marketing coaching, etc. Aside from the contest, they are also open for regular submissions for publication in those same genres.
Anything catch your fancy? Do your cats read? Anything you want to share with us?
May you find your Muse.
And because I showed her all mean and vicious looking (she was stalking a toy), here's her bookish side, taken as I was FINALLY unpacking my office this week!! (Note, there are boxes involved in this, too. Cats just really like boxes.)
And now for some links!
Please note: I have not personally vetted any of these publications or contests, etc. I merely pass along information I've found. Please always research and check out publications before submitting to them.
Accepting Submissions:
Pulp Empire and Metahuman Press have announced a set of ongoing anthologies accepting submissions. They're open until filled, except the Doc Claus Christmas anthology, which has a deadline of October 15. 10-15% of profits go to authors as royalties.
Vagabundo Magazine is seeking bloggers/columnists to write about adventure travel. You will not be paid as a blogger, but you will get dibs on writing columns, which do pay. They also expect photos with your stories.
Long Count Press is putting together an anthology with the subject of dying earth sword and sorcery fantasy. Deadline is October 31. Pays $20, plus e-book copy, plus royalties.
Kraken Press is seeking submissions for their 50's themed horror and dark fantasy anthology, American Nightmare. Short stories only. Deadline October 31. Pays in pro rata share of 15% of list price, plus one contributor copy.
Contests:
Cease, Cows is holding a flash fiction contest. Guest judge is Stephen Graham Jones. Cost is $5 to enter. 1000 words or less. Prizes will be awarded as a percentage of the money brought in for the contest (details on the website). I don't usually pass along contests that have an entry fee these days, but I know the judge and he's an honest guy. Deadline October 15.
Kazka Press holds a monthly flash fiction contest entitled 713 Flash. The October deadline is October 20, with a theme of Out of Time. Pays $15 per accepted story.
Bad Day Books is holding their 2013 Assent Publishing Rogue Writing Contest. Novella and novel submissions in horror, thriller, suspense, and apocalyptic. Deadline October 31. The prize pack is pretty phenomenal, including a publishing contract, marketing, author marketing coaching, etc. Aside from the contest, they are also open for regular submissions for publication in those same genres.
Anything catch your fancy? Do your cats read? Anything you want to share with us?
May you find your Muse.
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
[Mostly] Wordless Wednesday - Estes Park Elk & Links
It's [Mostly] Wordless Wednesday and, as promised, elk!
Thank you to everyone who stopped by for Jeremy's book tour and Mina's cover reveal! I'll be visiting you all back, but I have my final clinical then both written and skills final directly after, so I'm in crazy study mode. Wish me luck! If I pass my finals, all I have left is state boards in the next month or two.
Now for some links.
Note: I am not vetting these publications, personally. I find the information and pass it on, but I have not researched it. Please do your own research before submitting anything in order to insure the publication is valid and has no complaints against them.
Accepting Submissions:
Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine is open for submissions, seeking both new and previously published authors. They take all kinds of mysteries, and pay .05 and .08 cents per word. Lengths can be anywhere from minute mysteries (250 words) to novellas. Short stories seem to be the general format, though.
Fantastic Frontiers is open for submissions year-round. They're looking for science fiction and fantasy short stories, serials, comics, videos, voice recordings, and other media. Pay varies per format. Fiction pays .03 cents per word.
Horrified Press has a call for submissions for their anthology Tales of the Undead - Hell Whore, Volume III. Write about ladies of the night. Deadline is September 10. 1000-6000 words. Pays in royalties. Seeking dark fairy tales, bizarre, horror, surrealism, dark science fiction, etc.
Writing Tomorrow is taking submissions of fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, novel excerpts, and artwork. Pays $50-100 for fiction/nonfiction, and $25 for flash and poetry. Open submissions; no deadline.
Contests:
The Fountain is holding an essay contest. They want to know about your motto for life. Open worldwide. 1500 to 2500 words. First place gets $1500, with cash prizes for 2nd, 3rd and 2 honorable mentions, as well.
Planetory Stories is launching a contest. Winners will be published and receive five cents per word. (I'm unclear on how this differs from simply taking submissions...). Flash fiction.
Blog Hops:
Madeleine, of Scribble and Edit, is running a blogfest to celebrate her third blogaversary. The Novel Films II Blogfest will be on September 2, 3 and 4, though you can choose just one day of those three. Each day has a different theme having to do with films/TV adaptations of books.
Anything here interest you? Got anything to share? Any publishing news?
May you find your Muse.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
P is for Poe's Disappearance and Please Forgive Me!
Today is "P" day, but it's also Thursday. And what does that mean? I realized that I completely failed to put links in the Wednesday post for open submissions and contests! Ack!
Forgive me? Just in case, I'll put a handful at the bottom of this post instead.
is for Poe's Disappearance.
On October 7, 1849, author Edgar Allan Poe called out "Lord, help my poor soul" before taking his last breath (or so it's claimed). That's there the only non-mystery elements of Poe's death end, and the questions begin.
You see, Edgar Allan Poe left Richmond, Virginia on September 27, arriving in Baltimore the next day. He was supposed to continue on to New York, but he never made it there. Instead, on October 3rd, he was discovered, upset and raving, on the streets of Baltimore. He was wearing clothing that didn't appear to belong to him (it didn't fit and wasn't his style), was entirely unkempt, and his money and trunk weren't with him (the trunk was found back in Richmond). Someone claimed he'd left Richmond with about $1500, though this is reported as unlikely, due to the fact that he was there collecting subscriptions to his $5 magazine, and he'd never collected anywhere near that amount before.
It was assumed Poe was drunk, and he was taken to a hospital, where they put him in the area reserved for drunks. He went in and out of consciousness for several days, raving mindlessly, not making any sense. One night he called for "Reynolds!" over and over, though no one has ever been able to figure out who this was. It became obvious he was not inebriated when he continued in this way for four days before dying. He was never able to recount what had happened in the days he'd been missing.
The newspapers of the time claimed he died of a brain fever or congestion of the brain, which is said to be a euphemism for death by embarrassing means. It appears no death certificate or official records exist.
One theory as to what happened to him while he was missing is that he was kidnapped, drugged, and forced to vote at multiple ballot boxes in an election. This is called cooping, and was a known issue during that time period. Perhaps the drugs they used to keep him doing their bidding were just too much for his system.
Most other theories have to do with the cause of death, as no one is quite sure what he was doing, and cooping has been the primary suspicion to explain why he was missing and why he was in such a deplorable condition.
Rabies has been put forward more recently as the cause of death, and the confusion that might have caused him to be wandering around, not knowing who he was. His symptoms in the hospital resemble the symptoms of rabies. But how did a man as famous as Poe stay out of sight, as ill as he was, without anyone discovering him? And what happened to his clothing? Was he ill from rabies and someone mugged him, taking the nice, expensive clothes he was known to wear? Even the shoes he was found in were not his own.
Various other illnesses have been suggested, such as cholera, syphilis, hypoglycemia, meningitis, a brain tumor, epilepsy, and plenty of others. Or did he overdose on something like laudanum? It had happened to him in 1848. Was he actually drunk? Despite people thinking he was acting drunk, there was no mention of the smell of alcohol, and at least one person made the point of saying he never smelled any liquor on him. It's been theorized that he committed suicide or was the victim of some slow murder, but that would involve some sort of poison, most likely, and nothing was found.
So what happened to Poe while he was missing? Where was he? How did he die? Where did his money go? His clothing? Was it an illness, or was he a victim?
A couple links to make up for my mistake...
Accepting Submissions:
Idyllic Books has a call out for submissions for their BladeMage Magazine. Seems to be primarily fantasy they're looking for. Paying market. Also seeking illustrations for pay.
Phantom Drift is seeking fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and art. Paying market.
New Horizon Press is seeking non-fiction. They have specific requests, so be sure to check those out.
Contest:
Clean Teen Publishing is hosting a Kick Off Contest, with categories in illustration, drabble, short story, novelette, and novella. Prizes are $25 to $100. Deadline is April 30.
Other:
The National Storytelling Network is offering their Brimstone Award for Applied Storytelling, a grant of up to $5000. The preliminary application deadline is April 30.
Anything to share?
May you find your Muse.
Letter P courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim, clker.com.
Forgive me? Just in case, I'll put a handful at the bottom of this post instead.
is for Poe's Disappearance.
On October 7, 1849, author Edgar Allan Poe called out "Lord, help my poor soul" before taking his last breath (or so it's claimed). That's there the only non-mystery elements of Poe's death end, and the questions begin.
You see, Edgar Allan Poe left Richmond, Virginia on September 27, arriving in Baltimore the next day. He was supposed to continue on to New York, but he never made it there. Instead, on October 3rd, he was discovered, upset and raving, on the streets of Baltimore. He was wearing clothing that didn't appear to belong to him (it didn't fit and wasn't his style), was entirely unkempt, and his money and trunk weren't with him (the trunk was found back in Richmond). Someone claimed he'd left Richmond with about $1500, though this is reported as unlikely, due to the fact that he was there collecting subscriptions to his $5 magazine, and he'd never collected anywhere near that amount before.
 |
| Edgar Allan Poe By Oscar Halling [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons |
It was assumed Poe was drunk, and he was taken to a hospital, where they put him in the area reserved for drunks. He went in and out of consciousness for several days, raving mindlessly, not making any sense. One night he called for "Reynolds!" over and over, though no one has ever been able to figure out who this was. It became obvious he was not inebriated when he continued in this way for four days before dying. He was never able to recount what had happened in the days he'd been missing.
The newspapers of the time claimed he died of a brain fever or congestion of the brain, which is said to be a euphemism for death by embarrassing means. It appears no death certificate or official records exist.
One theory as to what happened to him while he was missing is that he was kidnapped, drugged, and forced to vote at multiple ballot boxes in an election. This is called cooping, and was a known issue during that time period. Perhaps the drugs they used to keep him doing their bidding were just too much for his system.
Most other theories have to do with the cause of death, as no one is quite sure what he was doing, and cooping has been the primary suspicion to explain why he was missing and why he was in such a deplorable condition.
Rabies has been put forward more recently as the cause of death, and the confusion that might have caused him to be wandering around, not knowing who he was. His symptoms in the hospital resemble the symptoms of rabies. But how did a man as famous as Poe stay out of sight, as ill as he was, without anyone discovering him? And what happened to his clothing? Was he ill from rabies and someone mugged him, taking the nice, expensive clothes he was known to wear? Even the shoes he was found in were not his own.
 |
| Poe's original grave (his body is no longer there) By KRichter (probably own picture (see original filename)) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons |
Various other illnesses have been suggested, such as cholera, syphilis, hypoglycemia, meningitis, a brain tumor, epilepsy, and plenty of others. Or did he overdose on something like laudanum? It had happened to him in 1848. Was he actually drunk? Despite people thinking he was acting drunk, there was no mention of the smell of alcohol, and at least one person made the point of saying he never smelled any liquor on him. It's been theorized that he committed suicide or was the victim of some slow murder, but that would involve some sort of poison, most likely, and nothing was found.
So what happened to Poe while he was missing? Where was he? How did he die? Where did his money go? His clothing? Was it an illness, or was he a victim?
A couple links to make up for my mistake...
Accepting Submissions:
Idyllic Books has a call out for submissions for their BladeMage Magazine. Seems to be primarily fantasy they're looking for. Paying market. Also seeking illustrations for pay.
Phantom Drift is seeking fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and art. Paying market.
New Horizon Press is seeking non-fiction. They have specific requests, so be sure to check those out.
Contest:
Clean Teen Publishing is hosting a Kick Off Contest, with categories in illustration, drabble, short story, novelette, and novella. Prizes are $25 to $100. Deadline is April 30.
Other:
The National Storytelling Network is offering their Brimstone Award for Applied Storytelling, a grant of up to $5000. The preliminary application deadline is April 30.
Anything to share?
May you find your Muse.
Letter P courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim, clker.com.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Beginnings Blogfest and Links
Today is L.G. Keltner's Beginnings Blogfest!
L.G. asked us to write about any beginning we wanted. There are five billion thoughts that occurred to me, but I thought I'd talk about the beginning of my taking an active part in the writing community, because my blogging beginning is sort of wrapped up in there, too.
This isn't about the beginning of my writing; I'm pretty sure I was doing that in the womb. Fetal philosophy. You know, "write what you know" doesn't cover much when you're floating in a bubble.
No, I wrote for ages, but I had no idea there was a writing community out there where I could find support and education. It wasn't until a friend invited me to a conference (which I didn't go to) that I started becoming aware of what was out there.
She asked me to a local meeting at another point, so I went. It took a lot for me to do that, as I'm a major introvert, and tend to be anxious about new social situations. I liked it; everyone was nice and I learned something. But most of all, I realized there were a bunch of other writers in Colorado Springs, and that there were local resources for us. They talked about the conference, about NaNoWriMo (which I'd never heard of), about a writer's contest, etc. Brain overload!
My brain fizzled like that of a malfunctioning Stepford Wife. I was a bit overwhelmed, but I was also excited. I started attending regular meetings, signed up for a local writer's group, and finally, attended my first conference.
It was at the conference that I learned that I knew absolutely nothing about publishing, that I had unrealistic views of the business of writing. And it was at that conference that I heard about platform and blogging, which planted the seed that became The Warrior Muse.
I've posted about the beginning of this blog before, so the short version is that I had no idea what to write about or what to do. I'd throw up a random post here and there, mostly updates about meetings I went to.
Snooze.
I had no idea what to say, no idea how to get anyone to read the blog (I hadn't told anyone I was even blogging, because I was too insecure about what I was doing). And then I somehow happened across a post about the upcoming A-to-Z Challenge. I bookmarked it, but was terrified.
Then one night I looked at my blog and decided I needed to sink or swim, so I opened that bookmarked page, gulped, and filled out the linky list entry. Then I sat there hyperventilating until I clicked to enter it. The rest is history.
From one beginning to another, to another, to another. I'm now an active blogger and an active part of the the writing community here. I'm in two writer's groups, and I volunteer for each, as well as the conference, and I couldn't be happier.
Thanks for an interesting blogfest, L.G.!
Now for some links.
Open for Submissions:
Menacing Hedge is accepting poetry, art and short stories. They are a quarterly magazine. "Genres that tickle our fancy are horror, slipstream, magical realism, and science fiction, with styles that lean toward humorous, absurdism, experimental, literary, bizarro, quirky and surreal."
Gutter Books is reopening for submissions. Reading period begins February 15. They are seeking pulp fiction.
Electric Spec closes to submissions January 15 for their February issue. Speculative Fiction. Paying market.
Commentary is always open to submissions of articles or reviews.
Free Spirit Publishing is open for non-fiction book submissions for kids and teens.
The Red Asylum is seeking dark and twisted flash fiction for their 5th edition. Non-paying at this time, as they are a new magazine.
Grinning Skull Press is open for submissions for an anthology about B-Movie Monsters. Paying market. Deadline March 31 or until filled. Short stories 3000-10,000 words.
Pantheon Magazine is seeking submissions of short fiction, poetry, reviews, art/photography, and interviews. They take reprints. They publish all genres. Paying market.
Monster Corral is seeking stories about monsters in 2013. Any genre, as long as there are monsters. Paying market.
Angelic Knight Press is putting together an Urban Fantasy anthology, and are open to submissions January 15 to May 15. Short fiction. Shared royalties.
Contests:
Winning Writers is still taking entries for their Wergle Flomp Humor Poetry Contest, closing April 1. No submission fee. First prize is $1000 and publication online.
The London School of Liberal Arts is having a competition. They want you to tell your story of one thing that needs to change. Submission deadline is February 28. Free entry. Open to everyone. Cash prize.
Donna B. McNicol is having a scavenger hunt contest for her blogaversary.
Other Items of Interest:
Melissa Maygrove put together a great motivation and resource post for writers.
Chris Winfield posted 92 Ways to Get (and Maximize) Press Coverage.
You can find a free book marketing cheat sheet at William Hertling's Thoughtstream.
One last thing: Hop on by the A-to-Z Challenge blog for a Post A-to-Z Road Trip update.
Anything you'd like to share? Any contests or publications you're interested in above? What beginning would you write about? Are you road-tripping?
May you find your Muse.
L.G. asked us to write about any beginning we wanted. There are five billion thoughts that occurred to me, but I thought I'd talk about the beginning of my taking an active part in the writing community, because my blogging beginning is sort of wrapped up in there, too.
This isn't about the beginning of my writing; I'm pretty sure I was doing that in the womb. Fetal philosophy. You know, "write what you know" doesn't cover much when you're floating in a bubble.
No, I wrote for ages, but I had no idea there was a writing community out there where I could find support and education. It wasn't until a friend invited me to a conference (which I didn't go to) that I started becoming aware of what was out there.
She asked me to a local meeting at another point, so I went. It took a lot for me to do that, as I'm a major introvert, and tend to be anxious about new social situations. I liked it; everyone was nice and I learned something. But most of all, I realized there were a bunch of other writers in Colorado Springs, and that there were local resources for us. They talked about the conference, about NaNoWriMo (which I'd never heard of), about a writer's contest, etc. Brain overload!
My brain fizzled like that of a malfunctioning Stepford Wife. I was a bit overwhelmed, but I was also excited. I started attending regular meetings, signed up for a local writer's group, and finally, attended my first conference.
It was at the conference that I learned that I knew absolutely nothing about publishing, that I had unrealistic views of the business of writing. And it was at that conference that I heard about platform and blogging, which planted the seed that became The Warrior Muse.
I've posted about the beginning of this blog before, so the short version is that I had no idea what to write about or what to do. I'd throw up a random post here and there, mostly updates about meetings I went to.
Snooze.
I had no idea what to say, no idea how to get anyone to read the blog (I hadn't told anyone I was even blogging, because I was too insecure about what I was doing). And then I somehow happened across a post about the upcoming A-to-Z Challenge. I bookmarked it, but was terrified.
Then one night I looked at my blog and decided I needed to sink or swim, so I opened that bookmarked page, gulped, and filled out the linky list entry. Then I sat there hyperventilating until I clicked to enter it. The rest is history.
From one beginning to another, to another, to another. I'm now an active blogger and an active part of the the writing community here. I'm in two writer's groups, and I volunteer for each, as well as the conference, and I couldn't be happier.
Thanks for an interesting blogfest, L.G.!
Now for some links.
Open for Submissions:
Menacing Hedge is accepting poetry, art and short stories. They are a quarterly magazine. "Genres that tickle our fancy are horror, slipstream, magical realism, and science fiction, with styles that lean toward humorous, absurdism, experimental, literary, bizarro, quirky and surreal."
Gutter Books is reopening for submissions. Reading period begins February 15. They are seeking pulp fiction.
Electric Spec closes to submissions January 15 for their February issue. Speculative Fiction. Paying market.
Commentary is always open to submissions of articles or reviews.
Free Spirit Publishing is open for non-fiction book submissions for kids and teens.
The Red Asylum is seeking dark and twisted flash fiction for their 5th edition. Non-paying at this time, as they are a new magazine.
Grinning Skull Press is open for submissions for an anthology about B-Movie Monsters. Paying market. Deadline March 31 or until filled. Short stories 3000-10,000 words.
Pantheon Magazine is seeking submissions of short fiction, poetry, reviews, art/photography, and interviews. They take reprints. They publish all genres. Paying market.
Monster Corral is seeking stories about monsters in 2013. Any genre, as long as there are monsters. Paying market.
Angelic Knight Press is putting together an Urban Fantasy anthology, and are open to submissions January 15 to May 15. Short fiction. Shared royalties.
Contests:
Winning Writers is still taking entries for their Wergle Flomp Humor Poetry Contest, closing April 1. No submission fee. First prize is $1000 and publication online.
The London School of Liberal Arts is having a competition. They want you to tell your story of one thing that needs to change. Submission deadline is February 28. Free entry. Open to everyone. Cash prize.
Donna B. McNicol is having a scavenger hunt contest for her blogaversary.
Other Items of Interest:
Melissa Maygrove put together a great motivation and resource post for writers.
Chris Winfield posted 92 Ways to Get (and Maximize) Press Coverage.
You can find a free book marketing cheat sheet at William Hertling's Thoughtstream.
One last thing: Hop on by the A-to-Z Challenge blog for a Post A-to-Z Road Trip update.
Anything you'd like to share? Any contests or publications you're interested in above? What beginning would you write about? Are you road-tripping?
May you find your Muse.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
IWSG Time! & Some Great Links
It's the first Wednesday of January, which means it's time for the Insecure Writer's Support Group!
My insecurities are catching up to me as I write one novel and edit another. I find myself getting sucked into a downward spiral of doubt. No one will want to read this. I've screwed up so badly that there is no fixing it. I should just scrap this and start something new. What am I doing?? Or, in the words of Adam Sandler: "They're all gonna' laugh at you!" (I tried to find a YouTube video of that skit to share, but I could only find other skits from that album, darn it).
I know this is just one of those lows when my insecurities catch up to me, and that I'll get through it, but it's always rough in the midst of it.
Now for some links!
Disclaimer: I have not researched and cannot personally recommend anything passed along in links. I simply record information I've happened across in my interweb wanderings in the hopes that something will be helpful to you! Please be sure to research anything before entering/submitting/applying.
Seminar:
Agent Sara Megibow, of the Nelson Literary Agency, is leading a 2-hour workshop on How to Get Your Book Published. This will take place Sunday, January 13, 1:00-3:00PM, at Denver Jewish Day School Discovery Lab. Cost is $50.
Contests:
The Great Novel Contest opened January 1. Cost is $40 to enter. It's sponsored by the Columbus Creative Cooperative. The winner will receive their choice between $1000 and a publishing contract with Columbus Press. Closes the last day of January, or sooner if 200 entries are received.
Kazka Press has a monthly flash fiction contest for publication with a specific theme. January's theme is An Undelivered Valentine, and is open from January 1-20. Pays $10. 712 words to 1001, somewhere between those. No cost to enter.
If you're planning on attending The Crypticon in Seattle (which I had badly wanted to attend, but I have to use those funds for something else), they are having a great writing contest, sponsored by Blysster Press. Entry fee is $10. Deadline is February 10. Finalists will be published in an anthology. Caveat: You MUST be attending Crypticon to enter. Sad sigh.
Accepting Submissions:
Cemetery Dance is accepting fiction submissions until all 2013 slots are filled. Paying market. Looking for horror, dark mystery and suspense. May query for non-fiction and artwork.
Belladonna Publishing is looking for Gothic fairy tale submissions for their anthology Black Apples. Paying market. Closes January 15.
Other:
The Lovely Pink Diva is seeking female writers to blog about female topics, such as health, beauty, fitness and lifestyle.
Novelnook is a new website positioning itself as a platform for self-published authors. Their front page says you keep 100% of your sales. Worth researching.
The Hugo Nominated Patrick Hester (a local) put together a post entitled Author Resources and Other Fun Things at his blog All Things From my Brain.
The Writing Box is seeking interviews with published authors. Free press, people!
Anything to pass along? What are you insecure about? Anything above you're excited about?
Currently reading: Crossed, by Ally Condie
Currently working on: The Black Undeath
May you find your Muse.
My insecurities are catching up to me as I write one novel and edit another. I find myself getting sucked into a downward spiral of doubt. No one will want to read this. I've screwed up so badly that there is no fixing it. I should just scrap this and start something new. What am I doing?? Or, in the words of Adam Sandler: "They're all gonna' laugh at you!" (I tried to find a YouTube video of that skit to share, but I could only find other skits from that album, darn it).
I know this is just one of those lows when my insecurities catch up to me, and that I'll get through it, but it's always rough in the midst of it.
Now for some links!
Disclaimer: I have not researched and cannot personally recommend anything passed along in links. I simply record information I've happened across in my interweb wanderings in the hopes that something will be helpful to you! Please be sure to research anything before entering/submitting/applying.
Seminar:
Agent Sara Megibow, of the Nelson Literary Agency, is leading a 2-hour workshop on How to Get Your Book Published. This will take place Sunday, January 13, 1:00-3:00PM, at Denver Jewish Day School Discovery Lab. Cost is $50.
Contests:
The Great Novel Contest opened January 1. Cost is $40 to enter. It's sponsored by the Columbus Creative Cooperative. The winner will receive their choice between $1000 and a publishing contract with Columbus Press. Closes the last day of January, or sooner if 200 entries are received.
Kazka Press has a monthly flash fiction contest for publication with a specific theme. January's theme is An Undelivered Valentine, and is open from January 1-20. Pays $10. 712 words to 1001, somewhere between those. No cost to enter.
If you're planning on attending The Crypticon in Seattle (which I had badly wanted to attend, but I have to use those funds for something else), they are having a great writing contest, sponsored by Blysster Press. Entry fee is $10. Deadline is February 10. Finalists will be published in an anthology. Caveat: You MUST be attending Crypticon to enter. Sad sigh.
Accepting Submissions:
Cemetery Dance is accepting fiction submissions until all 2013 slots are filled. Paying market. Looking for horror, dark mystery and suspense. May query for non-fiction and artwork.
Belladonna Publishing is looking for Gothic fairy tale submissions for their anthology Black Apples. Paying market. Closes January 15.
Other:
The Lovely Pink Diva is seeking female writers to blog about female topics, such as health, beauty, fitness and lifestyle.
Novelnook is a new website positioning itself as a platform for self-published authors. Their front page says you keep 100% of your sales. Worth researching.
The Hugo Nominated Patrick Hester (a local) put together a post entitled Author Resources and Other Fun Things at his blog All Things From my Brain.
The Writing Box is seeking interviews with published authors. Free press, people!
Anything to pass along? What are you insecure about? Anything above you're excited about?
Currently reading: Crossed, by Ally Condie
Currently working on: The Black Undeath
May you find your Muse.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
[Mostly] Wordless Wednesday - Here, Pretty Bird & Links
I went hiking with my kiddos and nephew on Friday before heading up to Denver for Mile Hi Con. We went to Seven Falls, famed for its 7 waterfalls, but also the number of steps to climb to the top of the falls. Well, the steps go to the top of the falls that are close together, but then you have the option of hiking to the topmost one, called Midnight Falls.
I'm going to share our trip in bits and pieces for the next couple Wednesdays. Today, the beautiful Steller's Jay, aka the Mountain Jay. These guys are omnivores, though they mostly eat seeds and plant life. I was so excited to catch one of these guys! And he cooperated so nicely.
Link Time!
Contests:
Monkey Puzzle Press is holding their 4th Annual Flash Fiction Contest. $10 entry fee. $300 first prize. All entries considered for publication. Submission deadline November 15.
Open for Submissions:
Vine Leaves Literary Journal currently has an open submission window until November 30. They take prose, poetry, artwork, photography, and reviews. Pays $5.
Blog Fests:
Andrew Leon, Alex J. Cavanaugh and Matthew McNish are hosting the Oh, How I Miss You Blog Fest on November 16. Join to spotlight bloggers you miss, who haven't been posting often, and those you would miss.
Cally Jackson is hosting The Year I Turned 18 Blog Fest from October 29 to November 2. Post what you'd like about the year you turned 18.
Writing Retreats & Workshops:
Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers is offering their first annual writing retreat directly following The Colorado Gold Conference. It will occur September 22-26. The most awesome part? Kristen Nelson of Nelson Literary Agency will be there, presenting a workshop and offering critiques. Kristen Nelson is on my short list of agents I'd love to have, so if you're interested, snatch this up!
Registration is currently being accepted for Big Sur Writing Workshops in December and March.
Of Interest:
Michelle Roberts wrote "Creativity Closely Entwined with Mental Illness" for BBC Health News.
Matt Petronzio posted "10 Inspiring Social Networks for Writers" on Mashable.
Anything to share? Think you'll participate in either of the blog fests? Have you submitted anything lately? Ever seen a steller's jay? How about a blue jay?
May you find your Muse.
I'm going to share our trip in bits and pieces for the next couple Wednesdays. Today, the beautiful Steller's Jay, aka the Mountain Jay. These guys are omnivores, though they mostly eat seeds and plant life. I was so excited to catch one of these guys! And he cooperated so nicely.
Link Time!
Contests:
Monkey Puzzle Press is holding their 4th Annual Flash Fiction Contest. $10 entry fee. $300 first prize. All entries considered for publication. Submission deadline November 15.
Open for Submissions:
Vine Leaves Literary Journal currently has an open submission window until November 30. They take prose, poetry, artwork, photography, and reviews. Pays $5.
Blog Fests:
Andrew Leon, Alex J. Cavanaugh and Matthew McNish are hosting the Oh, How I Miss You Blog Fest on November 16. Join to spotlight bloggers you miss, who haven't been posting often, and those you would miss.
Cally Jackson is hosting The Year I Turned 18 Blog Fest from October 29 to November 2. Post what you'd like about the year you turned 18.
Writing Retreats & Workshops:
Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers is offering their first annual writing retreat directly following The Colorado Gold Conference. It will occur September 22-26. The most awesome part? Kristen Nelson of Nelson Literary Agency will be there, presenting a workshop and offering critiques. Kristen Nelson is on my short list of agents I'd love to have, so if you're interested, snatch this up!
Registration is currently being accepted for Big Sur Writing Workshops in December and March.
Of Interest:
Michelle Roberts wrote "Creativity Closely Entwined with Mental Illness" for BBC Health News.
Matt Petronzio posted "10 Inspiring Social Networks for Writers" on Mashable.
Anything to share? Think you'll participate in either of the blog fests? Have you submitted anything lately? Ever seen a steller's jay? How about a blue jay?
May you find your Muse.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
[Mostly] Wordless Wednesday - Sunset on the Peak & Links
My second presentation is this Saturday, so I've been busy working on that. Due to my limited time and powers of concentration on anything other than said presentation, I'm bringing you just one photo (but lots of links!) Last week, while taking photos of my daughter's final soccer game of the season, I got a photo of a lovely sunset over Pikes Peak.
I'll be catching up on comments and visiting next week, if not this weekend. Looking forward to seeing what everyone has been doing this past week!
Now for some links.
Workshop/Presentation/Conference:
I'll be presenting A Beginner's Guide to Social Media for the Professional Woman this Saturday, October 20, at 11:30 a.m. at the Blue Sage Cafe. $18 entry includes a scrumptious gourmet lunch.
T.L. McCallan is presenting a free workshop entitled Becoming an Author: the Journey to Publication. It can be viewed as a webinar.
Where can you get a writer's conference, a cruise and Charlaine Harris as the keynote speaker? The 2013 Fun in the Sun Conference will be January 24 to 28th, setting sail out of Ft. Lauderdale.
Contests & Giveaways:
Think there aren't enough game shows for authors? What? There aren't any? Well, now you can participate in America's Next Author, the first social writing contest, with a $5000 prize.
Jamie at Mithril Wisdom is having a birthday giveaway of two great books. Free and easy to enter! Happy Belated Birthday, Jamie!
Howlin' Wolf Records and Jason Comerford are putting on 13 Days of Chills, featuring 13 interesting writeups about horror film scores. You can be entered in great giveaways just by commenting on the posts. Check out the remaining schedule and read up!
Accepting Submissions:
Static Movement is accepting submissions for short stories and poetry in fantasy, science fiction and horror. Non-paying market. E-zine.
Sanitarium is accepting submissions for horror-themed short stories. Not paying this round, but you get free copies. Future publications will be paid per word.
Other:
Neil Gaiman talks about All Hallows Read, where it is suggested you give away a horror-themed book to someone on Halloween.
Apex Magazine is doing a subscription drive with the goal of gaining 250 subscribers to their e-magazine. They're giving away great prizes as incentive, and the subscription is reasonably priced.
Want to know what not to do when writing analogies? Cheezburger posted this list of Really Bad Analogies Written by High School Students.
Buzz Feed presents 34 Facts About Halloween Movies That Will Blow Your Mind. Who was considered for the role of Jack in The Shining? Who was considered too crazy? What was Scream's original title?
Anything to share? Seen any good sunsets lately? Have you entered any contests or submitted this month?
May you find your Muse.
I'll be catching up on comments and visiting next week, if not this weekend. Looking forward to seeing what everyone has been doing this past week!
Now for some links.
Workshop/Presentation/Conference:
I'll be presenting A Beginner's Guide to Social Media for the Professional Woman this Saturday, October 20, at 11:30 a.m. at the Blue Sage Cafe. $18 entry includes a scrumptious gourmet lunch.
T.L. McCallan is presenting a free workshop entitled Becoming an Author: the Journey to Publication. It can be viewed as a webinar.
Where can you get a writer's conference, a cruise and Charlaine Harris as the keynote speaker? The 2013 Fun in the Sun Conference will be January 24 to 28th, setting sail out of Ft. Lauderdale.
Contests & Giveaways:
Think there aren't enough game shows for authors? What? There aren't any? Well, now you can participate in America's Next Author, the first social writing contest, with a $5000 prize.
Jamie at Mithril Wisdom is having a birthday giveaway of two great books. Free and easy to enter! Happy Belated Birthday, Jamie!
Howlin' Wolf Records and Jason Comerford are putting on 13 Days of Chills, featuring 13 interesting writeups about horror film scores. You can be entered in great giveaways just by commenting on the posts. Check out the remaining schedule and read up!
Accepting Submissions:
Static Movement is accepting submissions for short stories and poetry in fantasy, science fiction and horror. Non-paying market. E-zine.
Sanitarium is accepting submissions for horror-themed short stories. Not paying this round, but you get free copies. Future publications will be paid per word.
Other:
Neil Gaiman talks about All Hallows Read, where it is suggested you give away a horror-themed book to someone on Halloween.
Apex Magazine is doing a subscription drive with the goal of gaining 250 subscribers to their e-magazine. They're giving away great prizes as incentive, and the subscription is reasonably priced.
Want to know what not to do when writing analogies? Cheezburger posted this list of Really Bad Analogies Written by High School Students.
Buzz Feed presents 34 Facts About Halloween Movies That Will Blow Your Mind. Who was considered for the role of Jack in The Shining? Who was considered too crazy? What was Scream's original title?
Anything to share? Seen any good sunsets lately? Have you entered any contests or submitted this month?
May you find your Muse.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
[Mostly] Wordless Wednesday - A Grizzly Sight & Links
It's [Mostly] Wordless Wednesday again! Today's photos are of a playful grizzly at the local zoo (bet you thought I misspelled "grisly/grizzly" in the title!). The reason I haven't posted these before is that I was taking the photos from behind very thick, filthy, scratched, splashed and slobbered upon glass. So...the photos suck, BUT he is just so cute I had to share him, anyway. And, hey, you don't come here for professional photos, right?
Before I get to the grizzly, I want to say thanks for all the feedback on responding to rejections. Also, my final Fraterfest update is that I finished the book by Jones, and started the book by Harrison, but did not get that one finished. "The Ones That Got Away" was a great collection of short stories. The very first story gave me goosebumps. If you ever read it, you'll know what I mean.
Okay, heeeeeere's the Griz! (This is one time I recommend you do NOT click on the photos to enlarge them...)
Linky Time:
Taking Submissions:
Stymie Magazine is open for submissions. They are looking for work that is sports themed or has something sports related as part of it. Fiction, non-fiction, poetry, photographs, creative non-fiction, etc. As far as I know, this is not a paid market. However, I recently contacted the founding editor, Erik Smetana, about something unrelated to making a submission. He got back to me promptly and was a nice guy, in addition to being professional. If I ever have anything sports themed, I'd be delighted to work with Erik and Stymie Magazine.
The Potomac Review is taking submissions of prose and poetry (also photographs if you inquire first). Submission window is Sept. 1 to May 1. Pays in contributor copies.
[PANK] is taking submissions through November 30. Poetry and prose. They also take book reviews and blog posts via separate means.
Contests:
Grubstreet Reads is having a flash fiction contest. (That link will take you to their Facebook - I am having problems getting to their website). Determined by reader votes. Possible prize of a Kindle Fire. 300 word maximum. Enter directly on their Facebook by clicking on the Flash Fiction tab at the top of the main page.
Giveaways:
Bish Denham at Random Thoughts is having her Second Annual Blogtoberfest and giving away five books/sets of books. Simply requires you to leave a comment to be entered.
Rebecca Hamilton will be holding her Forever Girl Anniversary Tour and Giveaway in January. She's looking for people to help on the tour and host giveaways, for which she will provide two e-books for your giveaway. You set the rules for your portion of the giveaway. She'll also be doing an item giveaway that is separate, but overlaps this one. Those slots are full, but you can still try to win the prizes.
Challenges/Blog Hops:
Marie Landry at Ramblings of a Daydreamer is hosting her 2nd Annual Spooktacular Paranormal Reading Challenge from October 1 through Halloween. She is challenging participants to read and review at least three paranormal books this month. There will be a prize drawing for participants.
Other:
Carol Kilgore at Under the Tiki Hut put together the Writers' LIKE ME Project to help writers get their links out there and get to know each other. You can post your various links to your books, Facebook, blog, website, Twitter, GoodReads, you name it.
Writer's Digest posted Sherman Alexie's Top 10 Pieces of Advice for Writers.
Book Riot posted 5 Women Writers Tougher Than Hemingway.
That's it for this week.
Anything to share? Anything in here sound good to you? What about those tough female writers? Ever seen a grizzly not in a zoo?
May you find your Muse.
Before I get to the grizzly, I want to say thanks for all the feedback on responding to rejections. Also, my final Fraterfest update is that I finished the book by Jones, and started the book by Harrison, but did not get that one finished. "The Ones That Got Away" was a great collection of short stories. The very first story gave me goosebumps. If you ever read it, you'll know what I mean.
Okay, heeeeeere's the Griz! (This is one time I recommend you do NOT click on the photos to enlarge them...)
 | |
| Stepping in for a dip |
 | |
| Look, a stick! nom, nom, nom |
 |
| Thanks for the floss |
 |
| This is the best toy ever! |
Linky Time:
Taking Submissions:
Stymie Magazine is open for submissions. They are looking for work that is sports themed or has something sports related as part of it. Fiction, non-fiction, poetry, photographs, creative non-fiction, etc. As far as I know, this is not a paid market. However, I recently contacted the founding editor, Erik Smetana, about something unrelated to making a submission. He got back to me promptly and was a nice guy, in addition to being professional. If I ever have anything sports themed, I'd be delighted to work with Erik and Stymie Magazine.
The Potomac Review is taking submissions of prose and poetry (also photographs if you inquire first). Submission window is Sept. 1 to May 1. Pays in contributor copies.
[PANK] is taking submissions through November 30. Poetry and prose. They also take book reviews and blog posts via separate means.
Contests:
Grubstreet Reads is having a flash fiction contest. (That link will take you to their Facebook - I am having problems getting to their website). Determined by reader votes. Possible prize of a Kindle Fire. 300 word maximum. Enter directly on their Facebook by clicking on the Flash Fiction tab at the top of the main page.
Giveaways:
Bish Denham at Random Thoughts is having her Second Annual Blogtoberfest and giving away five books/sets of books. Simply requires you to leave a comment to be entered.
Rebecca Hamilton will be holding her Forever Girl Anniversary Tour and Giveaway in January. She's looking for people to help on the tour and host giveaways, for which she will provide two e-books for your giveaway. You set the rules for your portion of the giveaway. She'll also be doing an item giveaway that is separate, but overlaps this one. Those slots are full, but you can still try to win the prizes.
Challenges/Blog Hops:
Marie Landry at Ramblings of a Daydreamer is hosting her 2nd Annual Spooktacular Paranormal Reading Challenge from October 1 through Halloween. She is challenging participants to read and review at least three paranormal books this month. There will be a prize drawing for participants.
Other:
Carol Kilgore at Under the Tiki Hut put together the Writers' LIKE ME Project to help writers get their links out there and get to know each other. You can post your various links to your books, Facebook, blog, website, Twitter, GoodReads, you name it.
Writer's Digest posted Sherman Alexie's Top 10 Pieces of Advice for Writers.
Book Riot posted 5 Women Writers Tougher Than Hemingway.
That's it for this week.
Anything to share? Anything in here sound good to you? What about those tough female writers? Ever seen a grizzly not in a zoo?
May you find your Muse.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
[Mostly] Wordless Wednesday - Dinosaurs! & Helpful Links
I took my kiddos to the Dinosaur Resource Center in Woodland Park, Colorado for this week's field trip, so I thought I'd pass along some fossil photos for [Mostly] Wordless Wednesday.
Now for some helpful links:
Black Lawrence Press is in open reading period for submissions until June 30. They are seeking literature and creative non-fiction.
Ploughshares is in open reading period for submissions of fiction, poetry and limited amounts of non-fiction.
Freefall Magazine is open for submissions until August 31. This is for their winter issue. They are seeking prose, poetry, art, photographs and will take proposals for interviews and reviews.
Writer's Toybox will be hosting a short story contest soon. Details on the way. Top entries will be included in an anthology, and the winner will be offered a novel publishing contract.
That's it for today, folks! I hope you're having a wonderful summer (for those in the same hemisphere as me), and a great winter for those on the south side of the globe.
Any links to share? Ever wanted to be a paleontologist? Like dinosaurs? What about cars?
May you find your Muse.
How could I not put T-Rex first? Ol' T is never as big as I expect one to be, but I still wouldn't stand there and mock it if it was trying to chew on me. RAWR!
Pteranodon!
This is their newest edition: Apataosaurus. This thing was massive! The only photos that do its length any justice, though, have my kids or niece or nephew in them, so I can't post them.
This here's Pachy. Pachycephalosaurus, that is. That thing towering behind him? T-Rex.
And a bonus for you car fans out there - this beauty was parked near my car when I came out and I had to snap a photo.
Now for some helpful links:
Black Lawrence Press is in open reading period for submissions until June 30. They are seeking literature and creative non-fiction.
Ploughshares is in open reading period for submissions of fiction, poetry and limited amounts of non-fiction.
Freefall Magazine is open for submissions until August 31. This is for their winter issue. They are seeking prose, poetry, art, photographs and will take proposals for interviews and reviews.
Writer's Toybox will be hosting a short story contest soon. Details on the way. Top entries will be included in an anthology, and the winner will be offered a novel publishing contract.
That's it for today, folks! I hope you're having a wonderful summer (for those in the same hemisphere as me), and a great winter for those on the south side of the globe.
Any links to share? Ever wanted to be a paleontologist? Like dinosaurs? What about cars?
May you find your Muse.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
[Mostly] Wordless Wednesday - Birds at the Park & Helpful Links
Today, [Mostly] Wordless Wednesday will feature birds I saw at the park the other day while watching my son play t-ball. It was fun to see such a variety. It's mighty hard to catch those little buggers since they don't actually stay still!
It's not just cows that support Chick-fil-A...this magpie is a fan, too.
If you look closely at this crow, it you'll see its head feathers aren't black.
I believe this is a red-tailed hawk, but I'm no expert. It does have red tail feathers, though...
Now for some helpful links:
This is really last minute, but I only just saw it. Big Pulp is accepting submissions on two different themes. Submissions close on May 31st, though, so hurry if you're interested!
Rhemalda Publishing is open for submissions. Click on their name to see what they're accepting.
Critique my Novel is running a Novel Writing Contest. Deadline is July 1, 2012.
Harper Collins has a community for writers called Authonomy. I've heard good things about it, including that it is a very supportive place for writers. You can also post part of your work and get feedback.
Council of Literary Magazines and Presses is a helpful site, offering links to respected literary magazines. They also appear to have some other great resources, so definitely worth checking out.
<b>Any links to pass along?</b>
May you find your Muse.
It's not just cows that support Chick-fil-A...this magpie is a fan, too.
If you look closely at this crow, it you'll see its head feathers aren't black.
I believe this is a red-tailed hawk, but I'm no expert. It does have red tail feathers, though...
Now for some helpful links:
This is really last minute, but I only just saw it. Big Pulp is accepting submissions on two different themes. Submissions close on May 31st, though, so hurry if you're interested!
Rhemalda Publishing is open for submissions. Click on their name to see what they're accepting.
Critique my Novel is running a Novel Writing Contest. Deadline is July 1, 2012.
Harper Collins has a community for writers called Authonomy. I've heard good things about it, including that it is a very supportive place for writers. You can also post part of your work and get feedback.
Council of Literary Magazines and Presses is a helpful site, offering links to respected literary magazines. They also appear to have some other great resources, so definitely worth checking out.
<b>Any links to pass along?</b>
May you find your Muse.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Writing Contest Tips
We're down to the last month before the May 1 deadline for the Pen Women Flash Fiction Contest I'm chairing (click here for more information on that). This was my first experience in chairing or running a writing contest of any sort, and this has also been my first year of entering writing contests. I've learned a lot in the last year, and I thought passing across a few pointers might be a good idea. I thought about waiting until the contest was closed, but why not pass along helpful tips before the due date to give people an edge in the last month?
I don't know about you, but I'm someone who obsessively checks the rules for anything I'm involved in. Perhaps because of this, I was surprised by how many people entered a contest without actually having read the rules, or at least not very thoroughly. My first pointer?
READ THE RULES AND GUIDELINES. All of them. Don't just read them once, read them several times. Print them up, if you're so inclined. But do be sure you've gotten an understanding of exactly what is being asked of you. Some contests may let you get away with small mistakes, while others may use that as an excuse to pare down a sizable mass of entries. There's no way for you to know which category the specific contest you're entering falls into, so play it safe.
Don't do anything to your check. Don't staple your check to your entry. Don't use double-sided tape to affix it to your entry. Don't do anything that may damage the check, which will render it unusable. If you'd like, it is fine to fold a sheet of paper around the check so that it isn't visible through the envelope, but please, please, please do not do anything to affix it to the paper! I destroyed my nails trying to carefully remove checks stapled to paper, including one stapled directly in the middle of the check.
Use manuscript format unless otherwise directed. If there is no information about the formatting, assume they want it in standard manuscript format. This is the most professional way to present your piece. You took care in writing it, so take care in presenting it. You can find excellent guidelines on standard manuscript formatting here.
Don't do anything wacky with your submission. Whether you present your piece via email or snail mail, be sure your submission is plain. In other words, no frilly email backgrounds, no funky fonts, no colored or textured paper. I know this is a work of art you've labored over, and sometimes it seems like it should be presented with a flourish, but hold yourself back! Send it on plain white paper, and see the standard manuscript format guide for font type and size information.
Be sure to proofread your entry. I haven't seen a contest judging sheet yet that doesn't take grammar, spelling, typos, etc. into consideration when figuring the score. If you enter the most mind-blowing piece, but it is riddled with typos and misspellings, you are going to lose points. Don't let that be what loses the contest for you.
Do your homework before contacting those running the contest. If you write the person running the contest to ask a question clearly addressed in the contest's guidelines, it may impact you. Some may not even respond to those questions. If the only information passed along is an email address, with no website or written guidelines, by all means contact that email address for the guidelines. But if there is a website link or a set of guidelines, always be sure to check those guidelines for the answers first. It's okay to ask questions not addressed therein.
Check and double check! For me, personally, I always go back over my piece when I have attached it to the email to send (or printed it up, if that were the case). This assures me that I've attached the correct document, and also that I've met all of the guidelines. I go down the list of requirements systematically to be sure I've gotten everything as it should be. Sometimes those requirements are murky, so I tried to be clear when I wrote up this contest's guidelines, and I provided a link to a final checklist to hopefully help those entering have the best chance to have things done correctly. Check over your formatting, proofread for grammar, spelling and typos once more, check the requirements for entry, and check payment information to be sure you've got everything down pat. It's really disappointing to miss out on a contest because some small, but important, detail was overlooked. Don't let that be your downfall.
On a final side note, a lot of these things apply for submitting your writing for publication, as well as submitting for a grant or award of some sort. I also had the opportunity to be on a committee awarding a grant this past year, and it was so deflating to have an applicant who was strong in other ways, but who did not meet the requirements as they had been laid out. It was also incredibly frustrating. Always take the time to put your best foot forward, because what you turn in is all they have to judge you on.
Do you have any tips or pointers for entering contests, whether from an entrant's point of view or a judges/contest chair's? Please share! How do you feel about contests?
May you find your Muse.
I don't know about you, but I'm someone who obsessively checks the rules for anything I'm involved in. Perhaps because of this, I was surprised by how many people entered a contest without actually having read the rules, or at least not very thoroughly. My first pointer?
READ THE RULES AND GUIDELINES. All of them. Don't just read them once, read them several times. Print them up, if you're so inclined. But do be sure you've gotten an understanding of exactly what is being asked of you. Some contests may let you get away with small mistakes, while others may use that as an excuse to pare down a sizable mass of entries. There's no way for you to know which category the specific contest you're entering falls into, so play it safe.
Don't do anything to your check. Don't staple your check to your entry. Don't use double-sided tape to affix it to your entry. Don't do anything that may damage the check, which will render it unusable. If you'd like, it is fine to fold a sheet of paper around the check so that it isn't visible through the envelope, but please, please, please do not do anything to affix it to the paper! I destroyed my nails trying to carefully remove checks stapled to paper, including one stapled directly in the middle of the check.
Use manuscript format unless otherwise directed. If there is no information about the formatting, assume they want it in standard manuscript format. This is the most professional way to present your piece. You took care in writing it, so take care in presenting it. You can find excellent guidelines on standard manuscript formatting here.
Don't do anything wacky with your submission. Whether you present your piece via email or snail mail, be sure your submission is plain. In other words, no frilly email backgrounds, no funky fonts, no colored or textured paper. I know this is a work of art you've labored over, and sometimes it seems like it should be presented with a flourish, but hold yourself back! Send it on plain white paper, and see the standard manuscript format guide for font type and size information.
Be sure to proofread your entry. I haven't seen a contest judging sheet yet that doesn't take grammar, spelling, typos, etc. into consideration when figuring the score. If you enter the most mind-blowing piece, but it is riddled with typos and misspellings, you are going to lose points. Don't let that be what loses the contest for you.
Do your homework before contacting those running the contest. If you write the person running the contest to ask a question clearly addressed in the contest's guidelines, it may impact you. Some may not even respond to those questions. If the only information passed along is an email address, with no website or written guidelines, by all means contact that email address for the guidelines. But if there is a website link or a set of guidelines, always be sure to check those guidelines for the answers first. It's okay to ask questions not addressed therein.
Check and double check! For me, personally, I always go back over my piece when I have attached it to the email to send (or printed it up, if that were the case). This assures me that I've attached the correct document, and also that I've met all of the guidelines. I go down the list of requirements systematically to be sure I've gotten everything as it should be. Sometimes those requirements are murky, so I tried to be clear when I wrote up this contest's guidelines, and I provided a link to a final checklist to hopefully help those entering have the best chance to have things done correctly. Check over your formatting, proofread for grammar, spelling and typos once more, check the requirements for entry, and check payment information to be sure you've got everything down pat. It's really disappointing to miss out on a contest because some small, but important, detail was overlooked. Don't let that be your downfall.
On a final side note, a lot of these things apply for submitting your writing for publication, as well as submitting for a grant or award of some sort. I also had the opportunity to be on a committee awarding a grant this past year, and it was so deflating to have an applicant who was strong in other ways, but who did not meet the requirements as they had been laid out. It was also incredibly frustrating. Always take the time to put your best foot forward, because what you turn in is all they have to judge you on.
Do you have any tips or pointers for entering contests, whether from an entrant's point of view or a judges/contest chair's? Please share! How do you feel about contests?
May you find your Muse.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Thursday Helpful Links: Writer's Grants, Contest, Fun Stuff & #atozchallenge
Before jumping into this week's links (which I think are pretty awesome), I'd just like to say that IT'S ALMOST THE WEEKEND!!! Despite the short week, thanks to President's Day, I've thought it was a day ahead all week. That makes today Friday...if only!
Also, see my new banner?! Jeremy over at Retro-Zombie rocks! I sent him one sentence and he completely nailed my inspiration for The Warrior Muse! Maybe you recognize his digital signature in the corner of the banner; Jeremy is also the person responsible for many of the A-to-Z banners and badges you're seeing around the blog-o-verse. Like this one:
Speaking of the A-to-Z and my co-hosts, we are hoping to get to 1000 signups for the A-to-Z Challenge by March 1. If you're waffling, now's the time to sign up! If you've already signed up, would you help us meet our goal by posting about it/sharing? This year's A-to-Z is going to be amazing!
Image courtesy of OCAL at CLKER.com
First, we have FundsforWriters. This site lists contests, grants and publications. You can sign up for a newsletter that will automatically bring you updates on these things. Very cool! I'm kicking myself because I know one of our fellow bloggers was asking for help due to medical reasons. If anyone knows who that was, can you send her the link? There are grants to pay medical bills for writers in need.
Image courtesy of OCAL at CLKER.com
There is a writing contest open, no entry fee. They also have an art contest associated with it, so this isn't just for writers! This is the Tarcher Top Artist Competition. It is associated with Penguin and the winners receive $5000 cash and, for the writers, a critique of their entire book by a Tarcher Books editor. Not too shabby, eh?
Image courtesy of OCAL at CLKER.com
This binder from the Novelists, Inc. was recommended by someone on LinkedIn. You will find tons of helpful information in it, and it is FREE! I scanned through it before I downloaded it and it is chock full of information helpful to writers.
Now, just for fun, here's some art carved out of old books (encyclopedias, dictionaries, textbooks, etc., all out of date, I believe).
Weekly Reminders:
Are you devious at heart? That's the theme for the PPB NLAPW Flash Fiction Contest. More information can be found on the Flash Fiction Contest tab at the top of my blog.
The A-to-Z Challenge is filling up fast! No worries, though, there is no limit to how many people can sign up to participate. The sooner you sign up, the sooner you can start getting to know your fellow A-to-Z participants. Click on the A-to-Z tab at the top of my blog or go to the official A-to-Z website for sign-up, information, helpful posts from our team and past participants, and video challenge pieces.
The Pikes Peak Writers Conference is filling up fast! The sooner you get registered, the better your chance at getting a Read & Critique appointment or Pitch appointment.
The Flash Fiction Contest I'm chairing for the Pikes Peak Branch of the National League of American Pen Women is open through May 1. I received the first official entry this week! Now if only someone would submit the first official online entry, I'd be all sorts of pumped!
Anything to share? Anything you'd like me to be keeping an eye out for that I'm not? Let me know!
May you find your Muse.
Also, see my new banner?! Jeremy over at Retro-Zombie rocks! I sent him one sentence and he completely nailed my inspiration for The Warrior Muse! Maybe you recognize his digital signature in the corner of the banner; Jeremy is also the person responsible for many of the A-to-Z banners and badges you're seeing around the blog-o-verse. Like this one:
Speaking of the A-to-Z and my co-hosts, we are hoping to get to 1000 signups for the A-to-Z Challenge by March 1. If you're waffling, now's the time to sign up! If you've already signed up, would you help us meet our goal by posting about it/sharing? This year's A-to-Z is going to be amazing!
First, we have FundsforWriters. This site lists contests, grants and publications. You can sign up for a newsletter that will automatically bring you updates on these things. Very cool! I'm kicking myself because I know one of our fellow bloggers was asking for help due to medical reasons. If anyone knows who that was, can you send her the link? There are grants to pay medical bills for writers in need.
There is a writing contest open, no entry fee. They also have an art contest associated with it, so this isn't just for writers! This is the Tarcher Top Artist Competition. It is associated with Penguin and the winners receive $5000 cash and, for the writers, a critique of their entire book by a Tarcher Books editor. Not too shabby, eh?
This binder from the Novelists, Inc. was recommended by someone on LinkedIn. You will find tons of helpful information in it, and it is FREE! I scanned through it before I downloaded it and it is chock full of information helpful to writers.
Now, just for fun, here's some art carved out of old books (encyclopedias, dictionaries, textbooks, etc., all out of date, I believe).
Weekly Reminders:
Are you devious at heart? That's the theme for the PPB NLAPW Flash Fiction Contest. More information can be found on the Flash Fiction Contest tab at the top of my blog.
The A-to-Z Challenge is filling up fast! No worries, though, there is no limit to how many people can sign up to participate. The sooner you sign up, the sooner you can start getting to know your fellow A-to-Z participants. Click on the A-to-Z tab at the top of my blog or go to the official A-to-Z website for sign-up, information, helpful posts from our team and past participants, and video challenge pieces.
The Pikes Peak Writers Conference is filling up fast! The sooner you get registered, the better your chance at getting a Read & Critique appointment or Pitch appointment.
The Flash Fiction Contest I'm chairing for the Pikes Peak Branch of the National League of American Pen Women is open through May 1. I received the first official entry this week! Now if only someone would submit the first official online entry, I'd be all sorts of pumped!
Anything to share? Anything you'd like me to be keeping an eye out for that I'm not? Let me know!
May you find your Muse.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Project 52 Update, Open Anthologies, Community Websites
It has been an overwhelming week, so the links are a bit sparse today, but I do have a couple. First, though, how about a Project 52 update?
I can now cross out:
20. Make query/submission spreadsheet
28. Organize and edit scenic photos
I can technically cross this one out:
34. Submit 1 photo to a contest/publication
But I'm not going to. I had two photos in a paper and they credited them as Courtesy Photos instead of putting my name in. By the time I discovered it, it was too late to do anything about it, though I imagine if I fought I could make it happen. They were not scenic photos like I enjoy taking, but were of people, and I don't feel like they were very good, so I'm letting this one slide in order to not ruin a specific relationship (so yes, I have my reasons, but I'm still not necessarily happy about the situation). I am going to take this as a learning experience and go from there.
On a positive note, I was delighted to see that I officially have 400 followers as of this evening! So cool! I appreciate each and every one. I'm thinking it's time to start planning a giveaway when I reach 500 followers.
And now...the links:
Writers Unite is a writer's community I heard about this week. I have not yet joined, nor have I checked it out in-depth. However, it sounds interesting, so I'm passing it along, as it never hurts to find a supportive community, especially in such a solitary pursuit as writing.
The Denver Women's Press Club is running their Unknown Writer's Contest. You must be a Colorado resident (both men and women can enter) and you cannot have been paid for published work before.
Renee Rongen is accepting submissions for an anthology on the spirit of a woman. I do not believe you have to be a women to enter this, just to follow the theme of "What is the Spirit of a Woman?" Though it is not reflected on the webpage, the deadline has been extended to February 18.
I came across a second online community, this one called the WAE Network (or Writers, Agents, Editors). I did sign up to look at a pitch fest they are having, but didn't find much information on it. I haven't explored the site further (NO TIME!!). I like their cute little characters at the top of the page (featureless except for sneakers and socks).
And here are the weekly reminders:
The Pen Women Flash Fiction contest is ongoing. You can find more information on the Flash Fictiontab at the top of this blog. The theme is Are you Devious at Heart?
The A-to-Z Challenge is up to 430 sign-ups as of the writing of this post! You can sign up on the A-to-Z Info and Sign-up tab at the top of this blog.
Pikes Peak Writers is still accepting submissions (unpaid) for an anthology, to benefit their scholarship program. The theme is Moving Mountains.
And, of course, the Pikes Peak Writers Conference is open for sign-ups, and has scholarships available for those who need help with the fee. The sooner you sign up, the more likely you are to get a pitch session and/or a Read & Critique session. I'll be doing some volunteering, including in the pitch room, and I'd love to have an introduction to any of you who might be attending, as well.
That's it for today, everyone. Have a wonderful weekend! I hope to see you back here on Monday for the final portion of the Write Brain notes on New Models in Publishing, where I'll discuss information from DeAnna Knippling on e-publishing. You don't want to miss it!
Any helpful links to pass along? Are you familiar with any of the websites mentioned?
May you find your Muse.
I can now cross out:
20. Make query/submission spreadsheet
28. Organize and edit scenic photos
I can technically cross this one out:
34. Submit 1 photo to a contest/publication
But I'm not going to. I had two photos in a paper and they credited them as Courtesy Photos instead of putting my name in. By the time I discovered it, it was too late to do anything about it, though I imagine if I fought I could make it happen. They were not scenic photos like I enjoy taking, but were of people, and I don't feel like they were very good, so I'm letting this one slide in order to not ruin a specific relationship (so yes, I have my reasons, but I'm still not necessarily happy about the situation). I am going to take this as a learning experience and go from there.
On a positive note, I was delighted to see that I officially have 400 followers as of this evening! So cool! I appreciate each and every one. I'm thinking it's time to start planning a giveaway when I reach 500 followers.
And now...the links:
Writers Unite is a writer's community I heard about this week. I have not yet joined, nor have I checked it out in-depth. However, it sounds interesting, so I'm passing it along, as it never hurts to find a supportive community, especially in such a solitary pursuit as writing.
The Denver Women's Press Club is running their Unknown Writer's Contest. You must be a Colorado resident (both men and women can enter) and you cannot have been paid for published work before.
Renee Rongen is accepting submissions for an anthology on the spirit of a woman. I do not believe you have to be a women to enter this, just to follow the theme of "What is the Spirit of a Woman?" Though it is not reflected on the webpage, the deadline has been extended to February 18.
I came across a second online community, this one called the WAE Network (or Writers, Agents, Editors). I did sign up to look at a pitch fest they are having, but didn't find much information on it. I haven't explored the site further (NO TIME!!). I like their cute little characters at the top of the page (featureless except for sneakers and socks).
And here are the weekly reminders:
The Pen Women Flash Fiction contest is ongoing. You can find more information on the Flash Fictiontab at the top of this blog. The theme is Are you Devious at Heart?
The A-to-Z Challenge is up to 430 sign-ups as of the writing of this post! You can sign up on the A-to-Z Info and Sign-up tab at the top of this blog.
Pikes Peak Writers is still accepting submissions (unpaid) for an anthology, to benefit their scholarship program. The theme is Moving Mountains.
And, of course, the Pikes Peak Writers Conference is open for sign-ups, and has scholarships available for those who need help with the fee. The sooner you sign up, the more likely you are to get a pitch session and/or a Read & Critique session. I'll be doing some volunteering, including in the pitch room, and I'd love to have an introduction to any of you who might be attending, as well.
That's it for today, everyone. Have a wonderful weekend! I hope to see you back here on Monday for the final portion of the Write Brain notes on New Models in Publishing, where I'll discuss information from DeAnna Knippling on e-publishing. You don't want to miss it!
Any helpful links to pass along? Are you familiar with any of the websites mentioned?
May you find your Muse.
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