How to have a successful book launch
Indie authors have so many things to do when launching a book. For a successful book launch, and to help you keep on track (and from going crazy), use these checklists. First develop your media-kit. Include a book synopsis, author’s bio, press releases, interview questions, photos sized and formatted for online and print, cover letters for reviewers,…
My next big adventure: 270 miles on the Vermont Long Trail
After Memorial Day, Dennis and I are heading up to New Hampshire to spend time with our daughter and her family. While she and hubby are on a week-long cruise, we will care for their 19-month son and their pets. Living 1400 miles away, I welcome this opportunity to spoil my only grandchild. Walking the hills…
April 20, 2015 City Island Park, Sarasota
City Island Park in Sarasota is becoming one of my favorites places in the city. Today we met friends for lunch at O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and Grill. We sat under the thatched roof near the water watching the pelicans land on the wind-swept waves. It was balmy and the breeze was soothing. We each ordered something different…
Publishing caused me a tsunami of work
I knew publishing my second book was going to be demanding, but I had not anticipate the tsunami of work it caused. For the past several months, the pressure to release bore down on me. At times I felt as if I were suffocating under successive tidal waves of work. I was finally able to gulp lungfuls of air…
Do authors absolutely need to blog?
My reasons to start My Musings three years ago were twofold. First, best-selling authors were suggesting that blogging was one of the best tools in the writer’s platform for developing a following and building a relationship with readers. Once having established this relationship, I hoped to convert these fans to book readers. Second, I wanted to chronicle my journey into writing and self…
Death lead to focus and clarity
A lot has happened since I last wrote for My Musings. After a long illness, I lost my father on January 1, and then had to care for my ailing mother and all the minutiae that follows a death. With my mom’s improved health, I am returning to my life as a writer, like a crocus…
January 31, 2015 Visiting Sarasota
Anne’s visit is coming to an end. Luckily the weather has warmed enough (60s) to enjoy outdoor activities. We started our day with a walk on Lido Beach, enjoying the late morning sunshine, the soft sand beneath our feet, and easy conversation as we walked the shoreline. I love the beaches in Sarasota and wonder…
Thurs. 29-Jan-2015 Red Bug Slough and Turtle Beach
Yesterday, my friend from Massachusetts and I walked through the Red Bug Slough Preserve. Since this park is near my home, it is a favorite of mine. This 72-acre preserve has several miles of hiking trails to walk and spend time with each other and with nature. We were even lucky enough to see an otter…
Wed, 28-Jan-2015 Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center
I welcome having guest and exploring Florida with them. Wednesday, a life-long friend from Massachusetts and I visited the Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach. The cool weather attracts manatees and other fish to the warm water in the discharge canal, which was designated an official state manatee sanctuary in 1986. I’ve been seeing the…