Go Big or Go Home...

I keep that saying tucked in my head, and I pull it out when I'm debating doing something rather huge. Well, traveling alone to New York for a week-long writing conference is rather huge for me, but if I can get a scholarship to help fund the trip, I need to do it. Why? Because you either go big or go you home. You get one chance here, and you never know when your chance will end. So, that means I better get busy making copies of this application and sending it out, because the form is due by February 13. Keep your fingers crossed that the committee deems my writing sample and financial aid packet worthy enough to award me the money I would need to fund the trip. I'm worth it... I just hope they think so too!

Thanks for stopping by,
Katie

Agents

I've been sending out my novel for a little over a year now, and have received great feedback from various publishers. Most rejections have come with specific personal notes which are helpful and informative. I think, though, it's time to start looking for an agent. So, I sent my manuscript out to one agent today, and I will hear back by February 1st if they are interested. If not, I have another agency targeted, with one agent in particular who I think would connect with my main character and story line. Hopefully, this is the year to find representation for my novel and move forward with publishing!

I also continue to submit work to various magazines, and write for Associated Content. Check out my work there, and I'll earn extra cash (which is great in this down economy!).

Also, I've been invited to speak again at the Starke County Young Artists Conference on March 7, 2009. I had a great time last year talking to the younger children and I can't wait to work with the older kids this year.

Thanks for stopping by,
Katie

Inspiration

Inspiration can come in all forms. Maybe a quote from a book, a kind word from a family member or friend, an award or a small success. I've been lacking in the inspiration department lately, until I met with my writing group yesterday. Thanks, writing friends. You are just the inspiration I needed!

Speaking of needing things, I need to get busy revising my novel this morning.
Thanks for stopping by,
Katie

Surprise, Surprise!

Imagine my surprise yesterday when I checked the mail and found a contributor copy of Scholastic Instructor with one of my ideas in the Idea Swap section! What a great surprise!

I also had BackHome magazine accept an article I wrote. I signed the contract last week, but I'm not sure when the publication date will be. Another good thing to look forward too!

Thanks for stopping by,
Katie

Great Halloween Children's Books

I love children's books. (That probably goes without saying!) I recently wrote an article on some of my favorite children's books. You can read it here. Not all of the books on the list are 'Halloween-themed', but some are especially spooky and great for reading during October. When I taught fifth grade, my favorite book to read during October was The House on Hackman's Hill. Every chapter ended with a cliffhanger and every child in the class couldn't wait to read more. I originally heard about that book from Mrs. Brock, one of my co-workers at Knapp, and I have to say a huge thanks to her for introducing that story to me. It is one of my favorites ever!

Thanks for stopping by,
Katie

Exercise

If you want to read an interesting article on transitioning from walking to running, go here. I wrote it for Associated Content, but to be completely honest, even though I can run just as easily as walk, sometimes I'd rather just walk. Especially when I'm surrounded by the colorful scenery of fall. Anyhow, the article is there for you to check out.

I'm off to type. Thanks for stopping by,
Katie

Online Articles and Queries

I titled my post Online Articles and Queries, because that's all I've been doing lately for writing. I can't submit manuscripts via hard copy, because my printer broke. Died. Kaput. One minute it was happy, the next minute it was not so happy. Since that is the case, I've written a few more articles for Associated Content. You can find one on Low Maintanence Landscaping, one about Fall Decorating & Color Choices, and one on The Benefits of Morning Workouts.

If you live in my neck of the woods, enjoy this cooler weather!
Katie