You know this blog entry is about a contest, right? Vivian Kirkfield has a yearly contest, called #50PreciousWords, where she challenges writers to create a full story (with arc) in 50 words or less! 50 words. A full story. I know. This year, there were 770 entries! The fact that 770 writers were able toContinue reading “#50PreciousWords 2021 Entry”
Category Archives: Writing
2021 Valentiny: Stella & Hank
By now, you probably know how I feel about Susanna Leonard Hill’s writing contests! I love them! A blank page makes my anxiety rear it’s head but a structured challenge inspires ideas to flow! The Valentiny contest rules include creating a story for children with a full story arc in 214 words or less. ThisContinue reading “2021 Valentiny: Stella & Hank”
Organization Tips From An Unorganized Brain
My brain is not organized. It never has been and it likely never will be. I mean, I’m not complaining because it works for me and it has forced me to externally organized. And I’ve learned some tips to help my brain over the years. I would LOVE to hear what you do and whatContinue reading “Organization Tips From An Unorganized Brain”
Picture Book Opportunities in October!
2020, right? I’ve been working on finding silver linings, or rather, treats among all the tricks this year has brought. Here are some of my favorite October opportunities for children’s writers: Don’t miss Brian Gehrlein’s #PBCritiqueFest raffle! There are a LOT of amazing prizes and a LOT of opportunities for additional entries. Last year IContinue reading “Picture Book Opportunities in October!”
Fall Writing Frenzy 2020
[UPDATE: So honored to share that this story placed this year!] I feel like all the seasons have been a frenzy this year but, at least writing frenzies are the GOOD kind of frenzy. If you’re a member of the kidlit writing community, you’ve heard of Kaitlyn Sanchez – mom, teacher, children’s author, agent, (maybeContinue reading “Fall Writing Frenzy 2020”
On disappointment and creativity
So maybe you put yourself out there to do a thing. A big thing. A thing you thought would Really Make a Difference. And, maybe that thing didn’t work out. And you feel crushed. And you’re wondering if you should just give up. But here’s THE THING: If you are feeling disappointed and heartbroken, thatContinue reading “On disappointment and creativity”
#50PreciousWords
Another contest!!! This one is hosted by the wonderful Vivian Kirkfield and it’s a real challenge: write a story for children in less than 50 words! You read that correctly. 50 words! I actually came up with a couple. I focused on conveying snapshots of fun childhood experiences and it was a delightful and energizingContinue reading “#50PreciousWords”
Valentiny 2020
[UPDATE: I am so honored and thrilled to announce that this story won first place! Someone pinch me!] It’s time for ❤ Susanna Leonard Hill‘s<3 Valentiny contest! Her 5th one! She knows how to spread the love. The challenge: Write a kid’s Valentine’s story in 214 words or less in which someone is curious. I’mContinue reading “Valentiny 2020”
Author Interview (& Giveaway!) with Ciara O’Neal
It’s Sunday afternoon and my delightful winter break is drawing to a close. It’s time to emerge from the time-warp cocoon filled with too many cookies and delighted toddler shrieks. Wait, was that a delighted shriek or an injured shriek? I’m sure they’ll be fine. Back before I lost track of what day of theContinue reading “Author Interview (& Giveaway!) with Ciara O’Neal”
2019 Holiday Story Contest
Susanna Leonard Hill has another contest (I seriously don’t know how she does it). The challenge for this contest is to write an original story with kid-appeal, 250 words or less, that focuses on a holiday treat! My brain kept substituting “peppermint mocha latte” every time I read “treat” but maybe that’s just me. YouContinue reading “2019 Holiday Story Contest”
