All posts by NewEngland_Muse

I'm a traditionally and self published author. I write in the genre of children and YA at the moment but working my way up to adults. I'm a sports loving, photo taking gal who loves to sing/dance to my own enjoyment. I love to laugh even at myself. I am also owned by 8 birds and 2 hamsters, and yes they know it. :)
Art Council Grant, Literary, Writers

A Literary Grant

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Last month I heard of a grant being offered by the local art council. It included people in the literary field. The goal is to help artist get to the next level of their career and what they would need to obtain it. YAY!

The problem was the time frame was close at hand. I had two weeks to get the letter of intent to them. That was easy to do until I tried to fill in the application online, a pdf file. Nothing would save no matter how many times I filled it in. Files like this are tend to be read only yet I was told it could be done. What eventually happened was the printing of the form before closing it, scanning, converting to a pdf file and mailing it to the grant director. It was approved.

I now have a week to gather a/ the narrative b/resume or bio c/a letter of reference which is optional d/ a sample of my work, all in pdf format, and then upload to a site given to me.

I have all the components but the recommendation. While this is optional I have decided to include one in. My publisher will be writing one up for me.

I have had to research fast how to write-up this grant. It is my first attempt. I am not sure how long it will take to decide on who gets what. But it will be before the year is out due to the grant year being January 2014. I am going to give it a good try if nothing else. All they can say is no. If I don’t try I already know my answer.

 

 

 

Amazon Parrot, Celebration, Published

Release day: Celebration

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This past Saturday I had a celebration. It was the release of my first book, “Jasper, Amazon Parrot: A Rainforest Adventure” and it was time to enjoy that. I decided to eat out at a local restaurant in town and raise a glass of wine in the air. I could have done this alone and still enjoy the day.

But instead I sent the word out to some friends and writers I knew. What occurred was a gathering of 12 people snuggled close together enjoying and supporting my accomplishment. My friend Robin started it well by sprinkling the table with green stars in Jasper’s honor. That was awesome. She included a gift basket that had a bag of millet sprays for Jasper so he could be included.

Four hours of chatter, laughter and just enjoyment by people who get what I have done. It went by fast as food was eaten, wine was drunk and the day went on by. My book signings won’t be coming for a few weeks so this was the next best thing.

I am proud of myself. This was my goal three years ago when I started this project. I was not going to settle for writing a book to read to my grandchildren down the road. I did not let road bumps deter me. I learned from my mistakes, listened to good advice, and with a lot of time and effort it is now here.

Jasper is oblivious to all of this. He just knows mom gives him shelled almonds and goes on and on how he will be big. So long I pat him on his back, belly,wings, and head he is good.

Life is good right now for my bird and me.

Celebration, Published, Writer

My Coming Out Party: Author Style

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My launch celebration will be small. For until the books arrive for me to have book signings there is not much hoopla I can do. I chose to keep it light. I will be having lunch at a place in town I enjoy and raise a wine glass in the air as a way of saying, “Job well done, Sharon.” I have invited some writers from my groups, I have three, and some friends. I am sure what will ensue will be chatter, laughter and some good cheer and well wishes. Writers are awesome and as a norm are truly happen when one from the collective does well. I know I sure am when a fellow writer has taken the next step. It is a great fraternity to belong in. No dues required.

I can’t believe that on Saturday, Sept 7th, my book will be released. Something I have been working on for the last few years. Something that I have been determined and motivated to get done regardless of what obstacles has come my way. I was focused on having a publisher pick up my book. Those obstructions were just stepping-stones and learning opportunities. I never once entertained the thought my book was not going to be published.

As my mantra went, when I was submitting this novel, “ All I need is one yes, just one.” A phrase that I have taped to my monitor. I kept at it for one is such a low number there was bound to be someone who would love my book as much as I did. Someone who envisioned where I wanted it to go.

The time has arrived. The feelings are so amazing. I wish that for all of you who are writers. It can not be described accurately even for someone who writes. This is a major event in my life and I will enjoy it as much as I can.