Tag: Blogging

Featured Blogs

Posts That Caught My Interest #7

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Here are a couple of posts to appreciate.

Fearless Friday

Even when it seems we don’t have it all together, there might be a smidgen of courage in there somewhere.

The Big C

A beautiful, honest and sensitive post.

12 ways to maintain the Christmas spirit after Christmas

The spirit of giving shouldn’t be only for Christmas.

I am hoping for some good karma 

Has your site ever gone missing on you? How did you resolve it? Can you help Cathy?

As a parent, we all do it

A post that made me smile. Parenting is the hardest job we get to do. No manuals, no classes. You simply jump in and wade your way through.

Comments closed to encourage you to visit the featured links.

Regards and have a great weekend.

Jacqueline

Blog

To My Visitors and Followers

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Susan’s Thoughts…On Change

A change that will affect all who are visitors, followers, and subscribers to this Blog. This will also impact my life as this transition happens. I decided to close my .COM blog and begin blogging on Facebook and LinkedIn. The content will be my thoughts in Journal format and will include

The content will be my thoughts in Journal format and will include short writing of fiction, nonfiction stories, and poetry that I have written. Right now, I am using my Page, Susan’s Thoughts and Musings, as my Facebook page. This page will be changing its name to Susan’s Soul… If you don’t belong to Facebook, you will not be able to see my postings, but who doesn’t belong to FB?

The reason for the change is threefold:

First, I need more time to devote to my writing and my memoir with less time spent managing and marketing my blog. With only 24 hours in each day, I have spent 12-18 hours setting up posts or guests to post, marketing to all of the social media sites, etc. but I have no income despite trying affiliate links.

This brings us to the second reason for my decision. I need more income and more time to spend writing my memoir, freelancing. and a new business venture that you may hear more about in September or October.

The last reason is very personal, but I need to work on some of the things I have blogged about. I need to take care of myself with love and caring by giving myself permission to do other enjoyable things in my life, including personal socialization, time with God, and time for rest.

In closing, I will see you visiting my Facebook page, Susan’s Soul… if you choose to follow me. If you choose not, I will miss you and pray only good things for you in your life.

God Bless You,
Susan…
Susan’s Thoughts and Musings

Featured Blogs

Share Your Posts With Us

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Let’s keep the loop going.

‘Do you want more eyes on your words?’

Well then, add your LINK INTO THIS LOOP.

Comments are disabled here to keep the loop tidy. Any comments or link you want to send can be added through the link in the post.

Thank you for your understanding and regards.

‘We create a cohesive community when we come together.

Blogging · Guest Posts

A Creative Way Around The Technology Of Your Blog

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The more outlets creative individuals have, the better. We all have our niche, of course, be it writing, painting, or making music. But, we don’t need to stick to our specialty. In fact, it’s better to branch out. One creative outlet feeds another, and the more you use, the more complete your creative satisfaction will be.

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Some alternatives can even help your primary pursuit. Blogging, for example, provides you with a new way to share what you love doing. If you write fiction, you could post pieces or speak about your writing process. If you love painting, you could develop a blog reviewing your favourite methods.

But, many creative individuals avoid the blogging world. Why? Because the idea of all that technology gives a lot of us a headache. Far from being an inspiration, it seems like a sure way to kill creativity. In truth, though, you may not need to be as technologically minded as you think. Knowing your stuff may help, but there’s a shortcut for every eventuality. To prove the point, we’re going to look at a few of them!

The Appearance

The appearance of your page is important. If you’re putting your name to this, you want it to look good. But, how do you start? In truth, there’s no easy way to make your theme. There’s coding galore to learn. You’d need to know colour codes, button sequences, and so on. It’s not impossible, but it would take some time.

To save you the hassle, you could turn to pre-made blog layouts. Sites like WordPress offer free themes. Bear in mind, though, that these are commonly used. If you want something unique, you could always opt for a paid option from another site.

The Additions

Successful blogs often have additions, from mailing lists to background music. You don’t need to be a tech whizz to incorporate these, either. Setting up a mailing list is much easier than you think. Companies like ConvertKit ensure even beginners can get going. As for incorporating music, it’s as simple as watching a few quick online tutorials. Once you get started, you’ll wonder what all the worry was about.

The Emergencies

There’s always the possibility of emergencies when using technology. If your blog goes down, it could be bad news for your reputation. And, if you don’t know your stuff, you may struggle to get it running again. Who needs the headache? In truth, though, research will ensure you can cope with anything. Something like this guide about how to fix the “Error establishing a database connection” problem on WordPress has got you covered. A guide like this shows you the best ways to get your site up and running again fast.

Backing up your page and content will also go a long way. You don’t need to be a genius to get on top of this; you just need to be organized. And, if there’s one thing creative people are good at, it’s getting organized when it matters most.

 

Blog

8 SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE WAYS TO MAKE BLOGGING EASIER

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Content, Emails, Scheduling, Blogging, Blog Tips

 

Let’s keep to the truth and call a spade what it is and it’s not a big spoon. To blog consistently and to publish engaging top quality posts is hard work, don’t let anyone fool you.

It consumes time and energy to keep churning out those posts, but there are simple, effective ways to manage the process and to create that much-needed space so that you don’t feel overwhelmed.

Make a posting schedule and stick to it

You will often have spontaneous posts but to create achievable blogging goals, a publishing calendar gives you control of your processes. Without a schedule, you will find it difficult to keep track of what you are supposed to be doing and when. Scheduling makes a lot of difference.

Plan your time

Pick the time when you are most productive and use it to your advantage. I find that working early in the morning when others are still asleep works better for me.

It’s amazing how much work I get done in the space of an hour or two. Responding to emails and comments should be scheduled to give you some breathing space. Trying to respond to emails and comments as soon as they come in is one sure way to make you feel harassed and run off your feet.

Create a long list of your post ideas

As the ideas come to you, note them down. You could start writing the posts and flesh them out gradually if they are lengthy posts.

At present, I have close to a hundred unfinished posts in my draft and this approach helps me tremendously on days that my inspiration tank is running low or on days that I’m short on time.

Create Your Work In Batches

Creating posts that fall under similar category saves lots of time. For instance, instead of switching from one post to a different post that addresses unrelated topics, I choose a slot in my schedule to focus on creating several posts that share the same framework. This way, I’m in the zone – thinking of the same subject. Knowing where I’m headed makes the work faster. Read more…

Personal

Taking Notes…An emotional attachment

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Journals, Taking Notes, Emotional Attachment, Diary

 

Pretty notepads are one of my favourite things. I indulge in going to a book or stationery store often and the way that I look at the journals for sale – each time with shiny eyes like a child let loose in a candy store – I visualise my words coming alive and filling up the notes.

I always carry a notepad and pen in my bag, maybe that’s why I like sizeable shoulder bags – hubby always teases me about lugging a bag full of wonders all over the place.

Ever since I became aware of my writing passion, I’m known to squeeze in a little notepad inside a dainty purse so that I can quickly scribble my observations at a dinner party, outing or wherever. It makes me feel like a professional sleuth. I know all about using gadgets and computers, but it just doesn’t feel the same to me as writing into my journals.

In so many years, I haven’t chucked out any of my notepads, except some weeks ago when I went to the mall with the children. After galloping through the shops, we sat down to eat and I left my notepad on the table to briefly use the ladies.

By the time I returned, horror of horrors, my notepad had gone missing! Unfortunately, the kids had excused themselves to use the washroom as well and it was left on the table for a whole five minutes.

I felt robbed and I literally interviewed everyone within the vicinity, but no one had seen my beautiful butterfly pink pad. For several days I was simply upset thinking of all the spur of the moment ideas that I had scribbled down and some unknown person was privy to my naked thoughts. Lesson learnt. Where ever I go, never leave notepad lying around again.

If and when we leave the UAE, I am going to find a way to smuggle my journals along with me – though I know my husband will query my sanity for paying excess luggage to carry dog-eared notepads along 😉

Sadly, I failed to keep those that I had during my much younger days because I’ve moved around quite a bit in my life and carrying them didn’t occur to me back then. I bet the notes written in them would have made an interesting read for me.

Do you have a journal passion? Earlier in the week, I read a post where a blogger shared her fear of someone stealing her notes and I could totally relate to that. I’d rather give away the clothes off my back than my journals.

Jacqueline

Blog

7 AREAS WHERE BLOGGERS DREAMS DIE

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Bloggers, Blogging, Promoting, Success,

Results Take Too Long

Naturally, when we start any venture we want to see results and many bloggers jump into the process of blogging anticipating quick results. When the stark reality of the grind sets in and when their expected results take longer to meet, most become discouraged, quit blogging and go searching for the next trendy thing.

Without mincing words, blogging success takes time. A lot of time! Just keep plugging away.

You are not promoting yourself

A lot of bloggers/writers are not comfortable promoting their work sometimes due to lack of confidence in their work or the assumption that promoting their work is being arrogant and full of pride.

I’ve once had a newbie ask me ‘how would anyone read their blog with all the fascinating millions of blogs floating out there,’ my first thought was, ‘with this thought pattern, maybe you shouldn’t bother,’ but I ruminated over it and advised her to continue with her writing, make more effort to connect with others and let the readers decide if her work is good enough.

The reality is that if you don’t promote yourself, no one else will. There are ways to put yourself out there and to promote your work without coming across as obtuse.

Can’t Deal with Criticism

A lot of people may not like your style or agree with you and now and again, you come across some downright sour people on social media. They will leave their rude comments, opinions and sometimes even personal attacks.

You can moderate your comments to distance yourself from trolls, but you still need to acquire the diplomatic skill of handling constructive criticism. Learn not to take such confrontations personal, most times this is bullying tactics not worth spending time on. Read more…

Featured Blogs

Featured Posts – Share Your Post Links

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Sharing, Blogs, Networking, Growing Readership, Connection, Bloggers, Blog Posts

‘PLEASE SEND IN YOUR LINKS.’ 

Today’s featured blogs are:

The Nether World

My comments for this short story:

Phew! A rapid firecracker of a story. In minutes things can change swiftly and even dangerously.

Me, target audience, you of course

I love, love this Onetas’ list for writing to her target audience.  Made me smile and pepped up my morning. Take a read.

Tracy K Smith is the new poet laureate

Articles like this give me hope.

Farah Saleh

A new blog I started following and I’ve already seen inspiring posts. Check it out. 10 ways to have a better conversation.

I’m having a private party to celebrate the woman I’ve become

I’m not sure that I’ve read a more appealing post on turning 40. There’s everything to like about it. Step in and wish Chanty a happy birthday and huge welcome to adulthood 😉

Do step in, explore these blogs and show some love.

Do you want more eyes on your words?’

Well then, add your LINK INTO THIS LOOP.

Comments are disabled here to keep the loop tidy. Any comments or link you want to send can be added through the link in the post.

Thank you for your understanding and regards.

‘Remember, we create a cohesive community when we come together.

Poetry/Poems

Your Words

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pants, jeans, blogger, words, poetry

They say that words are cheap
but yours are simply gold

they touch me in ways I can’t explain
you enthrall me from afar

I fall in love with unknown parts of you
all I see are parts that you could be

©

Jacqueline

 

 

Guest Posts

Getting To Know George

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Once I go to visit George’s corner, I wear my thinking cap. His articles make me think beyond the literal words expressed and imparts new knowledge and perceptions on my mind.

A Bit About Me

Blogger, George Foulkes, Personal Interview

I spent my core years in the Small Heath area of Birmingham, England and at the age of 13 immigrated to the United States and have been living in New York City ever since.

At the tender age of 17 during the final year of high school, I joined the New York State National Guard. During my years in the National Guard, it took me to places all over New York State, the United States Mid-West, the Deep South, Kuwait, Germany and Iraq.

The tour in Kuwait and Iraq was in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II.

I retired from the National Guard after 24 years of service. Sadly I had to end the love affair with the Guard because I found that I could no longer keep pace with the physical demands the way I used to. It was better to retire before I hurt myself.

I’m currently employed as a civil servant for NYC’s social service agency where I supervise a team of workers. I guess you may call me a supervising bureaucrat. I am also the Union Delegate for my location.

On weekends I work as a Counsellor at a supportive housing facility where people with mental health disorders live I make sure that they take their medication.

I practice martial arts during the week. I do that at least 3 days a week or more.

I like to look at things from a win- win point of view. You may call me an optimistic person. If I should happen to experience some type negativity I find it to be small and trivial. It’s an outlook that I developed because I deal with people who are on the verge of hopelessness and the mentally ill and my negative experiences or perceived problems are very small compared to the problems people with little hope and the mentally ill face.

I am a father of one. He is now a grown young man.

A Bit About My Blog

I used to own a chat group called Mind Focus in Yahoo Groups. The group was up and running for a couple of years with discussions on some of the same topics that I now feature on my blog. Then one day out of the blue Yahoo shut down the group without any type of warning and Yahoo customer service was no help. So I decided to start the blog, True George.

The original intention was to write personal articles about my experience with the paranormal and entries from my dream journal. It has somewhat evolved to include short stories, and occasional a view on a political issue. I included the Psych Ward chronicles; it is based on real events that took place in one of NYC’s Psychiatric facilities where I did an internship.  Even though one of my original intents was to blog the contents of my dream journal I did not do it until recently.

The blogging phenomenon is awesome; if I was aware of it I would have done it sooner. When I had the mind focus group I used to search around looking for somebody else’s article to support or start a discussion. Now I write my own stuff.

My blogging experience has been great. I have connected with other bloggers who helped me improve the way my blog looks. I get ideas reading other blogs. 

My Simple Motivational Approach

I motivate myself by understanding that no one will know what is on my mind if I do not put it out there. I would be a happy camper if I know that someone got some type of benefit from the information I provided.

The Challenges So Far

The most challenging moment I have at times is deciding what to write about. I could have a head full of ideas but when it comes time for me to sit and write I sometimes draw a blank and can’t think of anything to write. Maybe I need to walk around with a notebook and take notes as the ideas arise.

My Words To Newbies

Keep blogging. What is the use of writing ideas in a book or even a personal manifesto and putting what you have written on a shelf?  Nobody will ever know you had ideas and something. At least when you blog someone will get to read what is on your mind and perhaps take a position comment on it.

A Typical Day in My Life

Well I’m just the average working stiff. Wake up move the car, get ready for work do my eight and hit the gate. When I get through the gate I go to the Dojo and practice martial arts. Come back home and relax. Sometimes after work I would attend a Union meeting and after the meeting hang out with Union officials; we go to a restaurant have a meal and couple of drinks. Other times after work spend some time with my girlfriend. On weekends I may run some errands then go to the weekend job. Sometimes I call out from working if there is an event like a family get together or sporting event I’d like to attend.

Future Outlook

I have the idea to do more creative writing and perhaps publish a book or novel.