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BOOKS BY MY FRIENDS

Posted on by Joy Held

This article may contain affiliate links which may result in the author receiving a commission when readers purchase items through the links.

Today we’re featuring authors LAURY A. EGAN, ALLE C. HALL, LYNN SLAUGHTER, and LINDA BALLOU.

BOOK: The Firefly

AUTHOR: Laury A. Egan

GENRE: Romance and coming of age portrait

BLURB: 1964: A dark summer night on a still black lake. A lantern is lit at the end of a dock. A blond girl in white appears and begins to dance, her body illuminated like the fireflies surrounding her. A second girl emerges from a house and is beckoned forward. The two meet, swim, and then kiss, beginning an ethereal romance and a young woman’s journey into adulthood. Robin Bennet, 14, has been abandoned at a lakeside rental. Her parents argue and leave, each believing the other has remained with Robin. Alone, Robin discovers someone has been sleeping in the house and stealing food. A fifteen-year-old, Kieran, the charming intruder, invites himself to dinner. He is the brother of the beautiful girl who magically appeared on the dock the night before. After he departs, the “Firefly” returns, but in the morning she has disappeared, leaving Robin on a quest to find her all the while pursuing her dream of becoming an architect. Heat rating: 2

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Laury A. Egan is the author of eleven novels, The Firefly; Once, Upon an Island; Wave in D Minor; Turnabout; Once, Upon an Island; Double crossed; The Swimmer; The Ungodly Hour; A Bittersweet Tale; Fabulous! An Opera Buffa; The Outcast Oracle; and Jenny Kidd; in addition to a collection, Fog and Other Stories. Four limited-edition poetry volumes have been published: Snow, Shadows, a Stranger; Beneath the Lion’s Paw; The Sea & Beyond; and Presence & Absence. Eighty-five of her stories and poems have appeared in literary journals.

BOOK: As Far As You Can Go Before You Have to Come Back: A Novel

AUTHOR: Alle C. Hall

GENRE: Literary fiction

BLURB: As Far as You Can Go Before You Have to Come Back is a-girl-and-her-backpack story with a #MeToo influence: Carlie is a child sexual abuse survivor. As a teen, she runs away to Asia. Falling in with an international crew of Tai chi-practicing backpackers, Carlie’s journey becomes one to find the self-respect torn from her as a child and the healthy sexuality she desires. Trigger warnings for: child sexual abuse, addictions, and suicide.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Nominated for The Pacific Northwest Booksellers Book Award, Alle C. Hall’s debut literary novel, As Far as You Can Go Before You Have to Come Back was winning prizes before its publication, including the National League of American Pen Women’s Mary Kennedy Eastham Prize. The novel was also submitted by the publisher for The National Book Award. Hall lived in Asia and traveled there extensively. She has a daily Tai chi practice that spans 35 years.

BOOK: Missed Cue

AUTHOR: Lynn Slaughter

GENRE: Mystery

BLURB: While dealing with her own messy personal life, Lieutenant Caitlin O’Connor investigates the most complicated case of her career, the suspicious onstage death of a revered ballerina.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: After a long career as a professional dancer and dance educator, Lynn earned her MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. MISSED CUE (Melange Books) is her first mystery for adults. She is also the author of four award-winning young adult romantic mysteries: DEADLY SETUP, LEISHA’S SONG, IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN YOU, AND WHILE I DANCED. Lynn lives in Louisville, Kentucky, where she’s at work on her next novel, serves on the board of Louisville Literary Arts, and is an active member and former president of Derby Rotten Scoundrels, the Ohio River Valley chapter of Sisters in Crime.

 

LINDA BALLOU

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER SUBSCRIPTION BOX REVEAL

Posted on by Joy Held

This post may contain affiliate links that may result in a small commission to me if you purchase through the link.

“BACK TO THE BOOKS” SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER BOX REVEAL!

It’s “Back to the Books” in September and October and the first WriteDay bi-monthly box is arriving as we type! Let’s take a look at what’s inside.

 

1. Featured writing craft book: The Idea: the Seven Elements of a Viable Story for Screen, Stage, or Fiction by Emmy and Golden Globe award winning author Erik Bork. Erik’s book is relatively new and packed with super information about coming up with ideas. Who doesn’t need a bit of help there now and then? He was part of the writing team for the hit HBO series “Band of Brothers.” His ideas for coming up with ideas is nothing short of brilliant.

2. Blank journal: Write your own story in the 5 x 7-inch spiral-bound journal with lined pages to collect all the ideas you gather after reading Erik’s book!

3. Literature stickers collection: You don’t have to be a scrap booker to appreciate this cute set of literary stickers. There are no less than 10 stickers in the packet. Use them in your journal, in a scrapbook, or decorate a blank greeting card you’re sending to a writing friend.

4. Healthy snack: These peach flavored gummy rings from Lily’s are sugar-free and tasty as all get-out!

 

5. Decor: When I came across the miniature wooden typewriter, I had to have one. I use it to display my business card on the table at book signings. So stinkin’ cute, if you ask me.

 

6. Jewelry: The Writer zipper pull blows me away with its cuteness factor. I can’t tell you how many zippers I have that the pull has broken off but the garment, purse, whatever still functions. It can also be attached to a key ring without adding bulk or weight, and it would be super adorable hooked into the eyelet or laces of your walking sneakers.

7. Writing tool: There’s a pen in the box from yours truly.

 

8. Jewelry: The collectable enamel pin is off the charts, mine anyway, for being an adorable and understated way to let others know you’re a writer. Plans are to have a different writing/reading book related enamel pin in every box. Wear it on a lapel or attach it to the strap on your laptop case. Collect them all!

9. Something to write about: I’m nuts over Thoughtfulls pop-out greetings. Each one is brilliantly created to be interesting and charming. I keep a few in my journaling tote bag to share or use as a journal prompt. They fit nicely inside greeting cards for a little something extra. Pop it open, copy the words into the blank journal you just received, and write down your thoughts. They’re a little bit addictive.

It’s not too late to get your WriteDay Sept./Oct. subscription box while supplies last.

 

My WriteDay Subscribe Here

“Holiday Hoopla” November/December box will begin shipping November 25. Know anyone who would appreciate receiving a gift subscription to My WriteDay? Visit the website to get that in the works.

I hope your WriteDay is fantastic!

Joy

 

 

Is It the Yoga Mat or Is It You?

Posted on by Joy Held

This article may contain affiliate links which may result in the author receiving a commission when readers purchase items through the links.

My ideas are not ever meant as a substitute for consulting with a qualified health professional

Is It the Yoga Mat or Is It You?

Remedies for stopping the slide.

People from all walks of life can enjoy hatha yoga because of its accessibility and availability. I recommend it to writers because the whole-body practice combined with breathing and meditation is an all-in-one fitness method that addresses many of the issues writers face. But many yoga devotees complain about their hands and feet slipping and sliding on the mat. There are two ways to end this problem, and it is a problem because it interferes with achieving good alignment. It’s just plain frustrating to not be able to hold a downward facing dog pose and enjoy the great stretch it offers because your hands won’t stay in place! Is it the yoga mat causing the problem or is it you? It’s a combination of things.

The phrase is not as prevalent now as in the past, but yoga mats are technically called “sticky mats.” When a young yoga teacher named Angela Farmer was leading classes in Germany, she wanted something soft, supportive, and that wouldn’t slide underneath the asanas. She took a piece of carpet padding, cut it to the size of a towel, and the modern sticky yoga mat was born.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga_mat

Since then, manufacturers have constructed yoga mats from materials such as plastic, latex, cork, and rubber that do provide more stability. Some yoga students, me included, need an extra layer of dryness to keep from losing grip on even the “stickiest” mat. Slipping while holding a yoga pose leads to several problems. One of them is misalignment and poor technique. Poor technique or not modifying a pose with props like blocks, blankets, and straps is the primary cause of injury.

Here, let me remind you that yoga doesn’t do anything to anyone. People do yoga and in a variety of ways to accommodate their abilities and needs. This is one of the hallmarks of yoga: it’s accessible to so many people and body types. Accessibility aside, guidance from a good hatha yoga teacher and knowing one’s own physical boundaries are essential. Always remember that yoga doesn’t do anything. YOU DO YOGA. What you do with yoga determines the results.

Stopping the slide on your yoga mat is essentially a matter of proper technique while doing the poses. However, yogis quickly discover that exercise is a cleansing tool and sweaty palms and feet can make that all-important alignment difficult to maintain. Even practicing on the iconic yoga mat that claims to stop the slipping, sweat (a good thing) can be frustrating. Rubbing alcohol and towels can’t keep up once the sweat begins a serious trickle down your arms and legs. I’ve studied and taught yoga for 40 years. I’ve tried different ways to keep my hands and feet dry during practice, and of the methods and products I’ve used, Carpe brand lotions work amazingly well.

Carpe products include antiperspirant lotions designed to stop sweat from coming through the pores. They also make sweat-absorbing powders, but that substance doesn’t work the same for me as the antiperspirant line. I’ve used the hand and foot lotions for several years. They help considerably. The only issue I’ve ever had is washing the lotion off!

Remedies to stop the slide during yoga include investing in a good quality yoga mat, practicing proper alignment techniques, seeking the guidance of a trained instructor, modifying poses with props, and using products like Carpe to stop the sweat in its tracks.

No more “Slip, Sliding Away”! Nail that yoga pose.

XXX

My WRITEDAY is a subscription box program that delivers curated products from authors, creators, and small businesses to writers and readers in the US. It’s unique in that many products are sourced from writers who are also crafters and artisans. Each box delivers a writing craft book of the month and 3-7 items associated with the key concepts (journaling, fitness, relaxation, nutrition, and creative play) of Writer Wellness, my flagship program and book (Headline Books, Inc. 2020.)

Each box is inspired by literary themes, genres, and holidays. Every month includes access to My WRITEDAY digital magazine filled with writing and publishing tips, writer wellness ideas, fiction excerpts, poetry, special offers, social media options such as live virtual meetings, and more.

The idea behind My WRITEDAY is to help writers spend more time creating stories, engaging with like-minded book friends, and enjoying the juicy, creative life they deserve. From craft books to office supplies to fun, writing/reading inspired décor, subscribers will discover an experience designed to offer a healthful plan for living your best writing life.

My WRITEDAY subscription box launches in August! Stay tuned for your opportunity to be an Early Bird subscriber and receive a special gift in your first box.

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WRITER’S FALL SURVIVAL GUIDE

Posted on by Joy Held

 

At first glance, the title could indicate that this is a piece about surviving a literal fall, as in down the steps, goddess forbid! The “fall” is seasonal in this case. Here are some tips for writers and readers for getting the most out of this time of year filled with so many colors, activities, and opportunities.

JOURNAL

Survival is one thing, but thriving is another. Surviving makes me think of living through a tough time and finally being rescued. I feel a bit fatigued by the idea of survival. Conversely, thriving makes me feel powerful and energized, ready for life’s curve balls. Here are three journaling prompts to bring the pen and paper to a meeting of the minds (or the keyboard clacking!)

  1. Write about a school memory set during the autumn. Did you love the coloring sheets in elementary school with falling leaves, pumpkins, and turkeys on them? Did fall sports mean anything to you during junior or high school?
  2. All the seasons involve transitions. Whether it’s environmental or physical, write about a transition memory that still impresses who you are today.
  3. What do you love (or not) about the autumn season and why?

EXERCISE

With the cooler temperatures, fall is a good time to get outside for regular exercise. Walking is a favorite of mine. It makes me feel better and relax because I’m moving and not at the computer. If walking or yoga outside aren’t possible, open a window wherever you workout and enjoy the crisp air and the flapping curtains cheering you on.

MEDITATE

Many things change about our northern hemisphere lifestyle in the fall. Five minutes of stillness, eyes closed, and counting breaths can do wonders for appreciating the transitions of the seasons and our lives.

EAT

While summer brings its bountiful harvest of fresh, local produce and flowers, autumn offers its particular flavors and scents. The onset of every new season is a good time to reset your body’s systems. Everyone should do a mild detox or cleanse at the start of every new season. If for no other reason than to feel open and spacious for the coming months. The simplest and safest way to detox is to increase your daily water intake. There is no formula. Adjust as needed.

CREATE

I believe we’re all natural born creators. Some people play to that strength more than others. One reason some folks don’t consider themselves creative is that they never had the opportunity to make something. And they may have “expectations syndrome” which I invented to mark the times when I feel less than capable. For example, I can’t draw more than stick figures, hearts, and chakra symbols. I’m a good doodler. I like journal pages to be illustrated and colorful so I cut images from magazines and create collages. I can embellish as I see fit and feel satisfied that I lived up to my belief that art, all forms of art, are interpretations of how we see the world.

How do you plan to thrive this fall?

I hope your WRITEDAY is fantastic.

Joy

Women with clean houses do not have finished books. ~Joy E. Held

Connect with me!

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Please note that this site may contain affiliates links. I may earn a small commission if you click through the link and make a purchase. Thanks for all the support!

 

 

The September/October My WRITEDAY subscription box “Back to the Books” ships September 20! Sign up now to be an Early Bird subscriber and receive a surprise free gift with your first box.

$59.00 plus tax includes shipping.

 

My WRITEDAY Subscribe

My WRITEDAY is a subscription box program that delivers curated products from authors, creators, and small businesses to writers and readers in the US. It’s unique in that many products are sourced from writers who are also crafters and artisans. Each box delivers a writing craft book of the month and 3-7 items associated with the key concepts (journaling, fitness, relaxation, nutrition, and creative play) of Writer Wellness, my flagship program and book (Headline Books, Inc. 2020.)

Each box is inspired by literary themes, genres, and holidays. Every box includes access to My WRITEDAY digital magazine filled with writing and publishing tips, writer wellness ideas, fiction excerpts, poetry, special offers, social media options such as live virtual meetings, and more.

The idea behind My WRITEDAY is to help writers spend more time creating stories, engaging with like-minded book friends, and enjoying the juicy, creative life they deserve. From craft books to office supplies to fun, writing/reading inspired décor, subscribers will discover an experience designed to offer a healthful plan for living your best writing life.

Crave Chocolate but Want Less Sugar?

Posted on by Joy Held

This article may contain affiliate links which may result in the author receiving a commission when readers purchase items through the links.

Crave chocolate but want less sugar? Lily’s to the Rescue.

Lily’s brand chocolate bars and products are decent options when you’ve decided to reduce or cut your sugar consumption AND improve your brain and heart health by eating dark chocolate (cacao). But why make these dietary changes in the first place?

Chocolate contains some decent vitamins and minerals that our bodies are happy to make use of. Cacao itself without “a spoonful of sugar” to help the medicine go down tastes downright nasty. Consequently, eating chocolate generally interferes with any desire to watch one’s sugar intake because the first thing the Spanish conquistadors did was add something sweet to the brew they discovered in Central America way back when. Sweetener of choice was and is sugar. Sugar turns to fat in the body. The kind of fat that’s difficult to purge. Choosing good-for-you chocolate means eating dark varieties that contain more of the components such as flavonoids AND is produced with healthier sweetener alternatives such as stevia or monk fruit. Bear with me. This is the good part of the story.

I’m no Sheldon, but I can understand that flavonoids, like those in chocolate, are chemicals, good ones, found in plants and vegetables that help cells do their thing like function the way they are supposed to. This is according to multiple studies on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. There are indications that flavonoids help reduce inflammation and plaque buildup which are problems associated with heart disease as well. Cacao is loaded with the good flavonoids as are many other foods and beverages. Eating healthy chocolate with less sugar or sweetener alternatives is good for your heart, head, and belt size. After much experimentation, I’ve found Lily’s brand products a satisfying choice for cooking (I put it in my chili,) baking (the chips are divine,) and for an everyday dessert (just a few squares does the trick.)

The Romance of Chocolate

No denying at this point that human beings have had an extended, romantic affair with chocolate. What we like about it, as far as I’m concerned, is the sweetness, the smooth, melty sensation, and the aftereffects. It is a consumable drug, after all. There is also the emotional factor associated with chocolate as in romantic holidays or anytime you want to say, “I love you.” A chocolate bar speaks louder than words alone. How did this happen?

This less than five-minute TedEd video written by educator Deanna Pucciarelli lays out a history of chocolate. Not only is it a decent introduction to the cacao bean’s checkered past, but it also doesn’t hurt one’s research as a writer to know details about the things we put in our books. The video provides some social commentary in the sense of unsavory practices involved in growing and harvesting the magic beans. Here’s the low-down. Cacao beans are grown mostly near the Earth’s equator in primarily rain forest regions because it needs high humidity, lots of rain, steady warm temperatures, and protection from the wind blowing it off the branches too soon.

And it’s been cultivated for thousands of years beginning in Central America and spreading to other countries along the rain forest belt of the planet. It was a spicy, stimulating drink for rulers and soldiers in Mesoamerica, used as currency in the exchange of goods and services, and available mostly to wealthy people. At first. As I said, the Spanish got a hold of it and added sugar (or honey, etc., again something available only to the elite,) and the rest of the story is what we stare at while waiting in line at the grocery store and fight with our kids about over eating too much. Too much what? The chocolate or the sugar? Both.

My mother said, “Anything in excess usually results in a problem.” But sometimes, the only thing that will calm the twitch is chocolate. Do the diligence and read the labels on commercially available chocolate candy. Besides the history and the benefits, know that quality cacao products containing better for you sweeteners have a magic about them that only testing will bear out. I can’t explain it, but you will eat less candy by choosing brands such as Lily’s. The company isn’t suffering because of this. They are a mission-driven group that source ingredients with a consciousness good for you, the company, and the globe.

When you subscribe to My WriteDay, you’ll undoubtedly find a Lily’s product in the box from time to time.

I hope your WRITEDAY is fantastic.

Joy

Women with clean houses do not have finished books. ~Joy E. Held

Connect with me:

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My ideas are not ever meant as a substitute for consulting with a qualified health professional.

The September/October My WRITEDAY subscription box “Back to the Books” ships September 20!

Subscribe to My WRITEDAY HERE

My WRITEDAY is a subscription box program that delivers curated products from authors, creators, and small businesses to writers and readers in the US. It’s unique in that many products are sourced from writers who are also crafters and artisans. Each box delivers a writing craft book of the month and 3-7 items associated with the key concepts (journaling, fitness, relaxation, nutrition, and creative play) of Writer Wellness, my flagship program and book (Headline Books, Inc. 2020.)

Each box is inspired by literary themes, genres, and holidays. Every box includes access to My WRITEDAY digital magazine filled with writing and publishing tips, writer wellness ideas, fiction excerpts, poetry, special offers, social media options such as live virtual meetings, and more.

The idea behind My WRITEDAY is to help writers spend more time creating stories, engaging with like-minded book friends, and enjoying the juicy, creative life they deserve. From craft books to office supplies to fun, writing/reading inspired décor, subscribers will discover an experience designed to offer a healthful plan for living your best writing life.

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SHAKE, SHAKE, SHAKE.

Posted on by Joy Held
Not a protein drink.

 

Years ago, when I was teaching six hatha yoga classes a week, I wasn’t eating well because time was my enemy. Most of my classes were scheduled for the five o’clock hour and interfered with eating on a regular schedule. They say don’t eat after 8:00 P. M. but that’s when I got home from class.

Starving, I would eat and have trouble sleeping. My nutritional coach recommended adding a protein shake to my food intake. It helped battle my fatigue and muscle recovery immensely, but it took a lot of trial and error to find one that I liked the taste of and that fell in line with my overall food program of Eat Right 4 Your Type. Another blog on that program later.

 

The “blood type diet” as it’s nicknamed suggests that my O blood type avoid wheat and whey. Many protein drinks contain whey and drinking them made me feel bloated rather than satisfied. The brand that eventually hit the spot is Premier Protein. When I wanted to reduce the amount of sugar in my diet, this brand helped since it generally contains only one gram. Does it help control my weight? Yes, but I don’t use it for that purpose. I drink it for the protein benefits as I’ve come to dislike the taste of many meat products and vegetable protein doesn’t fill me up. I also appreciate that Premier Protein is low on sodium content. It’s not crazy expensive and typically easy to find in stores and online. Winning!

The general key to losing weight is to cut calories and exercise regularly. A protein drink as a meal replacement is perfectly fine but not on a long-term basis. Whole foods and plenty of water are mandatory to a healthy food program. I don’t say “diet” because the first three letters spell “die.”

Do you drink a protein shake on a regular basis? Why or why not? Which one works for you? Recipes to share?

I hope your WRITEDAY is fantastic.

Joy

Women with clean houses do not have finished books. ~Joy E. Held

Connect with me

LinkTree

Advertisement

 

Please note that this site may contain affiliates links. I may earn a small commission if you click through the link and make a purchase. Thanks for all the support!

 

The September/October My WRITEDAY subscription box “Back to the Books” ships September 20! Sign up now to be an Early Bird subscriber and receive a surprise free gift with your first box.

$59.00 plus tax includes shipping.

My WRITEDAY Subscribe

My WRITEDAY is a subscription box program that delivers curated products from authors, creators, and small businesses to writers and readers in the US. It’s unique in that many products are sourced from writers who are also crafters and artisans. Each box delivers a writing craft book of the month and 3-7 items associated with the key concepts (journaling, fitness, relaxation, nutrition, and creative play) of Writer Wellness, my flagship program and book (Headline Books, Inc. 2020.)

Each box is inspired by literary themes, genres, and holidays. Every box includes access to My WRITEDAY digital magazine filled with writing and publishing tips, writer wellness ideas, fiction excerpts, poetry, special offers, social media options such as live virtual meetings, and more.

The idea behind My WRITEDAY is to help writers spend more time creating stories, engaging with like-minded book friends, and enjoying the juicy, creative life they deserve. From craft books to office supplies to fun, writing/reading inspired décor, subscribers will discover an experience designed to offer a healthful plan for living your best writing life.

Must We Read to Write?

Posted on by Joy Held

“Good readers make good leaders.”

Spine Poetry

 

“Reading is like breathing in, writing is like breathing out.”

~Pam Allyn, Author and literacy advocate

Reading is essential to being a writer. Regardless of level or number of published books, writing depends on reading. Not every reader becomes a writer, although you probably know it happens quite often. Do a search on fan fiction for an eye-opening experience about readers who write. Heck, reading may very well be the reason you became a writer. If you had to look back and trace your path to becoming a writer, what would the journey look like?

“Stepping Stones” is a journaling favorite of mine that I do with my college English students to help them “see” a concrete example of how they became writers or came to dislike writing. It’s a multi-step project that starts with answering some questions about their reading history followed by a hands-on poster and ending with writing an essay.

The majority of my Freshman Composition students raise their hands when I ask who doesn’t like to write. I always feel a bit sorry for the minority of souls brave enough to raise their pencils when I ask for a show of those who LIKE TO WRITE. Those same haters don’t like to read either.

Surprisingly, I encounter aspiring writers in my editing and book coaching business with similar sour attitudes toward reading. However, every student/client is able to answer the following five questions about their reading history. This is my secret, back door tactic to getting them to write a personal essay about their reading journey.

“My Reading Journey Essay”

  1. Were you read to as a child? Where? By whom?
  2. Do you remember the title of one book from grade school? Middle school? High school? What is it?
  3. As a child, did you go to the library regularly? Why or why not? Who took you? What do you remember about going to the library? When was the last time you were in one?
  4. If you have a good relationship with reading, can you point to a person, place, or thing that contributed to that?
  5. If you have a not-so-good relationship with reading, can you point to a person, place, or thing that contributed to that?

With the answers to these questions, boom, students (and you) have the outline for an essay about your storied history with reading and maybe how that history impressed your current love/hate party with writing.

In the article “Reading: A Writer’s Best and Most Constant Muse,” agent and author Paula Munier says, “We writers have to stay where we are to write—and good reading is our gateway to good writing.” There are studies galore about the value of reading, and you probably know how it contributes to your writing. Even though the effects are sometimes subtle, reading in and out of your genre undoubtedly has an effect on your writing. Munier reminds us that writing requires us to be stationary but that reading is a way to move about in mind and soul. Of course, we must not forget to be physically active in between reading and writing sessions.

I will return to this topic in the future as it has many layers of discussion associated with it. Such as the pitfalls of reading for writers, how much or how little to read is good for a writer, and books about the topic of reading like a writer.

For now, try answering the five questions above and write your own essay or blog about how reading impresses your writing. I’d love to READ it!

Have any quick comments about how reading affects your writing?

I hope your WRITEDAY is fantastic.

Joy

Women with clean houses do not have finished books.

~Joy E. Held

Connect with me:

LinkTree

Advertisement

 

Please note that this site may contain affiliates links. I may earn a small commission if you click through the link and make a purchase. Thanks for all the support!

 

The September/October My WRITEDAY subscription box “Back to the Books” ships September 20! Sign up now to be an Early Bird subscriber and receive a surprise free gift with your first box.

$59.00 plus tax includes shipping.

Click here to subscribe!

MyWriteDay Subscribe

My WRITEDAY is a subscription box program that delivers curated products from authors, creators, and small businesses to writers and readers in the US. It’s unique in that many products are sourced from writers who are also crafters and artisans. Each box delivers a writing craft book of the month and 3-7 items associated with the key concepts (journaling, fitness, relaxation, nutrition, and creative play) of Writer Wellness, my flagship program and book (Headline Books, Inc. 2020.)

Each box is inspired by literary themes, genres, and holidays. Every box includes access to My WRITEDAY digital magazine filled with writing and publishing tips, writer wellness ideas, fiction excerpts, poetry, special offers, social media options such as live virtual meetings, and more.

The idea behind My WRITEDAY is to help writers spend more time creating stories, engaging with like-minded book friends, and enjoying the juicy, creative life they deserve. From craft books to office supplies to fun, writing/reading inspired décor, subscribers will discover an experience designed to offer a healthful plan for living your best writing life.

 

AUGUST 2023 NEWSLETTER

Posted on by Joy Held

AUGUST 2023 NEWSLETTER

From the Joy Desk

Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023

In this issue:

My WriteDay Focus Group Concludes

Writer Wellness WORKBOOK Shipping

Where’s Joy?

Books By My Friends Returns

Podcast Interview

Music I’m Listening To

My WriteDay Focus Group was formed and met online in August. Seven book friends answered questions for me about products, promotions, and more. I found the comments extremely helpful and useful to my business plan for My WriteDay subscription box. Heartfelt thanks to

Fran H.

Louise M.

Susan I.

Diana R.

Amber M.

Sherry P.

Kaye D.

for their amazing insights and generous sharing of time and thoughts. For their efforts, everyone received a set of free downloads including a fitness planner. I held a drawing for a signed copy of Writer Wellness WORKBOOK. The winner was Kaye D.

YOU are now getting the first opportunity to subscribe to My WriteDay! Readers who join by September 6 at 11:59 p.m. will receive a free gift in the September-October “Back to the Books” box. It will initially ship on Sept. 20. The price is $59.00 plus tax, includes free shipping, and the free early bird gift. Feel free to share the link with your writer/reader friends. Details are on the new website

https://www.mywriteday.com

The Writer Wellness WORKBOOK is now shipping from my publisher, ME, and wherever books are sold. It’s packed with additional activities and includes a guided journal for 31 days of Writer Wellness practice and reflection. If you’d like a signed copy, email me at

Writerwellness at gmail dot com.

Where’s Joy, you ask? I had a ball leading an online workshop on July 15 for the In Your Write Mind conference. Then I thoroughly enjoyed myself at the “Author Meet and Greet” July 26 at the Dunbar Public Library in Dunbar, WV.

September is packed with appearances. Will I meet and greet you in person at one of them? Hope so! Contact me for details.

September 8: Marietta, Ohio, Sternwheeler Festival

September 23: Parkersburg, WV, Arc Fall Craft & Vendor mart

September 29: Kingwood, WV, Buckwheat Festival

September 30: Vienna, WV, Wayside UMC Vendor Fair

Books By My Friends, my weekly series highlighting authors and their books, returns in September. The format will be a little different as I will offer books in multiple genres each week. Up to five books/authors will be featured per post. Would you like to be a featured author on BBMF? Complete this Google doc with your information.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1AOI8r9TSpunHwNbZ-BJHmvi76DFMVBwKMAoYb55MrdA/edit

BBMF now offers book advertisements. For a reasonable cost of $10.00 per ad or three ads for $25.00, authors may promote their work. Email me for more information.

I co-hosted the Authoring Onward podcast with Connie B. Dowell for the last year, and it was a pleasurable experience. I loved talking to other writers and getting behind-the-scenes info on their processes, life, and work. Connie is taking a break from AO to work on other projects. Here is the latest podcast where I was featured. I’ll be sharing other links of past productions in future newsletters.

AO link

Music I’m listening to right now:

Writer’s Retreat by Lloyd Cole

Be well, write well!

Joy

writerwellness@gmail.com

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Everyday Hurdlers

Posted on by Joy Held
Photo by Quino Al on Unsplash

Track and Field is one of my favorite sports. It relies on individual talent as well as a team effort. I loved running because of the freedom and the rhythmic sensation of repetitive movement. I always felt like a new person after a good run. Spent but invigorated if that makes sense.

Hurdle jumping was never my thing. It looked a little like flying to me, but I never quite got the hang of it. My back foot kept clipping the top bar of the hurdle sending me and the barrier into a heap. Since my track and field days, I’ve recognized that the sport of hurdle jumping is good practice for everyday life. I mean, who doesn’t have some kind of obstacle, big or small, to overcome on a daily basis?

Writers face a number of challenges specific to the work such as finding ideas, making time to write, shitty first drafts, marketing, and competition for the eyes and money of readers. It’s great that lots of people write, but not so great that self-publishing has allowed quite a few stinker books into the ether and burned many readers as a result.

Readers are even more cautious about buying books, which is Economics 101, but poorly written and edited books have created another obstacle for writers/authors. Readers do not think that authors should be paid very much for their work. In my mind, the only way over (or around) this barrier is to produce good work, get professional editing, stay positive, and be persistent. A good attitude is sometimes the only thing that will get one over a hurdle.

I can think of two moments in my adult life that threatened to derail my forward momentum as an author, editor, book coach, and educator. One was the C-word. Cancer certainly sucks, but I overcame it with the help of an amazing team of family, friends, co-workers, doctors, amaze-ball nurses, and natural healers all working together.

The experience changed my dreams in a way. It made them bigger and brighter, and I might be a little more driven to overachieve as a result of the “lost” time required to heal. I say “thank you” more than before, and I mean it. I became more appreciative of everything from the tiniest to the grandest.

The other event involved the traumatic loss of my dad. In that instance, another team of incredible, selfless, smart, kick-ass people helped me through it. I learned something from both situations that I apply to the life hurdles I have encountered ever since.

What have you learned, Grasshopper?

I’m a Scorpio. That means my motto is “I’d rather do it myself, thank you very much, even though I’m sure you’re quite capable and all that, but I’d rather do it myself.” The lesson I learned in both instances was to inhale deeply, exhale slowly, and trust someone else with the expertise to take the lead. I couldn’t do my own surgery. I couldn’t argue a case in a court of law, although I might like to try it someday. I had to put all my trust into complete strangers (another difficult thing for Scorps) and believe that the best would happen. And it did.

The one tool that enables me to examine my anxieties is journaling. I have relied on it for years, and it helps me see my life hurdles clearly and to know when I need to reach out for help. There is strength and power in knowing when to get help. Kind of like flying over a hurdle in the middle of a running track without clipping your toe on the barrier. Sometimes I grew wings and sailed over the hurdle leaving it behind me but still standing. My hubris and I did a high-five, and I kept on running. Just like you, I come upon different sizes of obstacles every day. Journaling gets me over them.

My WRITEDAY is a subscription box program that delivers curated products from authors, creators, and small businesses to writers and readers in the US. It’s unique in that many products are sourced from writers who are also crafters and artisans. Each box delivers a writing craft book of the month and 3-7 items associated with the key concepts (journaling, fitness, relaxation, nutrition, and creative play) of Writer Wellness, my flagship program and book (Headline Books, Inc. 2020.)

Each box is inspired by literary themes, genres, and holidays. Every month includes access to My WRITEDAY digital magazine filled with writing and publishing tips, writer wellness ideas, fiction excerpts, poetry, special offers, social media options such as live virtual meetings, and more.

The idea behind My WRITEDAY is to help writers spend more time creating stories, engaging with like-minded book friends, and enjoying the juicy, creative life you deserve. From craft books to office supplies to fun, writing/reading inspired décor, subscribers will discover an experience designed to offer a healthful plan for living your best writing life.

My WRITEDAY subscription box launches in August! Stay tuned for your opportunity to be an Early Bird subscriber and receive a special gift in your first box.

I hope your WRITEDAY is fantastic.

Joy

Women with clean houses do not have finished books. ~Joy E. Held

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Noodles, Winners, & Workshops

Posted on by Joy Held

Wednesday, October 13, 2021

From the Joy desk

Hi,

Congratulations to Christy E of Ohio who won the newsletter subscriber’s September drawing for a signed copy of Writer Wellness: A Writer’s Path to Health and Creativity (Headline Books, Inc., 2020.) Watch for an announcement about the October contest in a couple of weeks.

If you’d like a chance to win the next drawing, please sign up for my newsletter here:

https://artisanal-musician-5007.ck.page/016aec7954

On to the news…

Online workshops I’m leading that anyone can sign up for include:

October

50 Ways to Leave Your Muse: Creativity Hacks

Sponsor: Northeast Ohio Romance Writers

Link to register https://www.neorwa.com/online-workshops/upcoming-meetings/

November

Mindset, Motivation, and Wellbeing A to Z for Writers

Sponsor: Aged to Perfection Romance Writers

Link to registerhttps://agedtoperfectionromancewriters.com/workshops/

December

50 Ways to Leave Your Muse: Creativity Hacks

Sponsor: Romance Writers of America Online

Link to register

https://rwaonlinechapter.org/workshops-3/

Reflective Writing: A Journal Workshop for Writers

Sponsor: Fantasy, Futuristic, and Paranormal Romance Writers

Link to register

https://ffprwa.com/reflective-writing/

The workshop descriptions and registration links to the sponsors are also on my updated website

http://www.joyeheld.com

Nutrition note

NATIONAL NOODLE DAY – October 6

You may already know that am a fan of the blood type diet as explained by homeopathic physician Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo in his book Eat Right 4 Your Type. My blood type is O negative, and wheat products are hard for me to digest. D’Adamo suggests trying the ancient grain granddaddy of wheat called spelt. Less processing and high in B vitamins.

https://www.berlinnaturalbakery.com/

It was tough to find spelt bread and pasta when I first looked for it. It’s more available today thanks to my absolute favorite bakery located in Amish country in Berlin, Ohio. Give them a try. They are a small, family owned, multi-generational company that makes great products, and the customer service is awesome. Tell Nicole that Joy sent you!

All good things,

Joy

Women with clean houses do not have finished books.

Questions? Love ‘em!

writerwellness@gmail.com

Let’s connect!

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Writer Wellness: A Writer’s Path to Health and Creativity (Headline Books, Inc., 2020)