Just for writers

  • Books change lives,  Friendship and relationship advice,  Just for writers,  relationships

    There’s a word for it

    “When we love someone, we share things with words. We share poems. We share songs. We share our favorite books. Because if we can make enough language bridges between the two of us, our hearts and minds will begin to know each other better.” ~Martha Beck Cleaning out my desk last week, I ran across several folders stuffed with old greeting cards, notes, and letters. Some were from friends and family. There were Mother’s Day tributes from my son, letters of comfort sent after my mother died, Valentines from my husband, thank-you notes from friends. Another file contained encouraging letters from readers of my early newspaper columns — some typed,…

  • Just for writers

    A special writing workshop for women

    Among the things that make me happy: helping other women find their voices and hearing their stories. That’s why I’m excited about my upcoming workshop, “Your Story, Your Power,” which is based on the book, Your Story Is Your Power: Free Your Feminine Voice, by Elle Luna and Susie Herrick. The free, one-night workshop will be held at the Royal Oak Public Library on Monday, September 24 at 7pm. I discovered this guide several months ago — and was immediately struck by its timeliness. The authors invite women of all ages to take a closer look at their family history as well as the cultural myths and personal experiences that have inspired, defined, changed, or even…

  • Events & news,  Just for writers

    “Details, Details” workshop

    Join me at the Royal Oak Public Library on Wednesday, May 2 (7:00 – 8:30 PM) for an evening workshop focusing on how to identify and describe the colorful specifics that editors look for in personal essays, columns, and feature stories. Discover how to make your writing sparkle and stand out from dozens of other submissions. This free program is designed especially for new writers. Registration is required to reserve your space: 248-246-3715 or visit the Royal Oak Public Library web site for more information.

  • Just for writers,  Magazines,  Where I'm published,  Writing advice

    Writing a newspaper column

    Last week, I posted a column I wrote about my son’s boyhood career as a newspaper carrier. This week, I heard from a fellow newspaper columnist who happened to spot a feature article I wrote for Writer’s Digest on how to snag your own newspaper column. Until my friend contacted me, I wasn’t aware that the archived piece (from 2008) is now available to read online. Though it’s not as easy to land a column today, it’s not impossible if your area of specialty isn’t well represented yet. To read my article in Writer’s Digest, click here.

  • Just for writers,  Magazines

    My art in a magazine

    Your art is what you do when no one can tell you exactly how to do it. Your art is the act of taking personal responsibility, challenging the status quo, and changing people.” — Seth Godin  I’ve been publishing my essays and articles since I was in college, yet I still get that little thrill each time I see my byline in a glossy magazine or a newspaper. Until this year, though, I didn’t have the nerve to submit my artwork to publishers — so I was honored when two of my pieces were chosen to illustrate the Rust Belt Rising Almanac this spring. Another exciting “first” for me: getting my work…