tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38697500308383245742024-03-21T15:10:01.830-06:00caffeine addictthoughts, rants, and other random stuffStacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-24111221254175867872012-11-10T09:48:00.001-07:002012-11-10T21:42:20.230-07:00Five things I learned at the Idaho Book Extravaganza1. Be creative. If something doesn't seem like it will work, find a creative way to make it happen. I nabbed a copy of Brian Jud's book on bulk sales, <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Money-Selling-Without-Worrying-Returns/dp/0757002137">How to Make Real Money Selling Books</a></i>, to help me think strategically about marketing my book.<br />
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2. E-books are always changing. You need to know the market to be successful, which means you should always be a student of the ever-changing digital world.<br />
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3. Create a plan. Things don't happen by chance, and that applies to book sales, too. Know what your goals are, where you're headed, and what you need to do to get there.<br />
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4. Your book is you. <a href="http://www.walthampton.com/">Walt Hampton</a> talked about the fact that your book is "legacy work." How cool of a concept is that?<br />
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5. People are willing to be givers. There are so many great people out there who are willing to give of their time and share their expertise. You just have to ask.<br />
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What a great weekend of book-related learning!Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-86043346708721413152012-06-15T08:01:00.002-06:002012-06-15T08:01:59.487-06:00Listen in!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMyJGMdEorIoZNY-rfot6ai5S8iGsXrpw1Z7nDOMi_lWOJMMcDfvD7c0t3iZhXiFJ6qMuDh5Rn8dqbjXo4hhuT_77Ny6elNmta6xnodg5YNpIK9vIBLaVjxqSqh3gz409h258eDgqlYfO/s1600/waif.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMyJGMdEorIoZNY-rfot6ai5S8iGsXrpw1Z7nDOMi_lWOJMMcDfvD7c0t3iZhXiFJ6qMuDh5Rn8dqbjXo4hhuT_77Ny6elNmta6xnodg5YNpIK9vIBLaVjxqSqh3gz409h258eDgqlYfO/s1600/waif.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Just a little note: I'll be doing a short interview today at 12:30 p.m. EST (10:30 a.m. MST). You can <a href="http://www.ustream.tv/channel/waif-cincinnati">listen online</a> from areas outside of Cincinnati or tune in if you're local.<br />
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I'll be talking about my book, <i>The Editor's Eye</i>, as well as offering three general writing tips and three tips for writing a book. Fun, right?<br />
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Anyway, I hope you'll give it a listen. Many thanks to WAIF and Mary Kay Meier for having me!Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-61494338259329969342012-04-10T11:50:00.000-06:002012-04-10T11:50:29.887-06:005 Ways to Buck the Writing Blues<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwB1fbpqAEzcvUt9XXotCVXg71TaA8_7lpN-a1khFFZjR_r8hSHoGM1bSxOxXFj1TfjQ2IY5FnJ_lyQAhw7mFflqD19xTc-rL-xWDl7RuCYPUHq83MVFAiecD2jL_UnCIHNhFOVXljux43/s1600/WritingBlues.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwB1fbpqAEzcvUt9XXotCVXg71TaA8_7lpN-a1khFFZjR_r8hSHoGM1bSxOxXFj1TfjQ2IY5FnJ_lyQAhw7mFflqD19xTc-rL-xWDl7RuCYPUHq83MVFAiecD2jL_UnCIHNhFOVXljux43/s320/WritingBlues.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Copyright Stacy Lynn Ennis</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I love writing. I think it's fantastic. It's splendid, marvelous, wonderful, and every other happy-sounding adjective you can think of. I just love writing.</div><br />
I also hate it. Hate with a capital H. H-A-T-E it. Hate as in, "I hate it so much I could just cry."<br />
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It's funny how these two extremes seem to often occupy the same space. I can be clipping along, words elegantly gracing the page or screen, thoughts flowing through me with ease and concise perfection (at least to me)...and then the next minute, nothing. This state of nothingness can last for minutes, hours, and even days.<br />
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Why?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Well, for me, it has to do with two things: focus and creative stimulation.<br />
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Focus is first because I'm actually a pretty focused person. I recently started planning out my day--writing out what time I'll do what and for how long. This helps me stay focused. <br />
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However, this uber-planning sometimes only slightly alleviates my desire to get everything done <i>now</i>. Especially when working on creative projects (such as writing or art), it's easy to feel that they're not as productive because they're more difficult to measure. For example, I feel more productive if I spend an hour editing a four-page article or reading 40 pages for class versus writing two paragraphs or starting the design to one book cover mockup. The quantitative side of me tends to see more as better, and this can cause me to lose focus on the creative task at hand--namely, writing.<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">Creative stimulation is second because I tend to be heavily influenced by my environment. When I'm writing for long periods of time, I'm pretty good about setting up my space: a warm cup of coffee, the window partially open, my desk clear of clutter, a notepad and pen nearby, and no sounds but the birds singing outside (and sometimes the cats fighting, but I can't control that). I don't check e-mail or social media, and I try not to have any conversations with humans. (Cats are fine because they don't talk back.)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">But when I'm writing a day here and a day there--right now, for example, as I'm revising my book--and not in a daily routine, I find it hard to get creative. Sometimes I struggle to resist the urge to be "productive." After all, to be creative, sometimes you just have to sit and think. This does not always <em>feel</em> productive, although I know it will <em>lead</em> to productivity.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">So, how does one buck the writing blues? Here are some things that work for me:</div><ol><li><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Find out what inspires you...and then do it.</strong> I watch TED.com videos most mornings to get inspired for the day. In the early afternoons, when I'm feeling tired and a bit sluggish, I have a cup of tea and stretch out on my <a href="http://runningtimes.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=9911">foam roller</a>; this small break is often the fuel I need to finish the day strong. A bit later, I do some sort of exercise. This gets my blood pumping, and these long fitness sessions often lead to really great ideas. I find all of these things inspiring, and they've quickly become necessary to my creativity.</div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Make a switch.</strong> Feeling antsy? Having trouble focusing? About to fall asleep from boredom? Move to another room. Stand up at your desk for a period of time. Turn on some music. Work from your tablet instead of your desktop. Switch gears and work on another project. Head to a coffee shop. The possibilities are endless, but the point is the same: Changing things up often aids in both focus and creativity.</div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Write down your writing goals.</strong> I know I often tout goal setting as the ultimate way to be productive and achieve dreams, but it's true. I set monthly, weekly, daily, and hourly goals...and I almost always achieve them. I also set long-term goals, but I don't usually write them out. (Although one of my goals this month is to start writing those long-term goals out.) If you're feeling stuck, stumped, or otherwise battling writing blues, writing your goals out on paper might help you visualize the finish product, which will help keep you focused.</div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Be intentional.</strong> Goal setting will help with this, but the idea here is to be aware of what you're doing and why you're doing it. Make decisions that bring you closer to what you desire, whether it's writing a novel or finishing a poem. Record your achievements in a spreadsheet or by checking off items on a list--it doesn't matter <em>how</em> you live intentionally, just <em>that</em> you do it. I used <a href="http://www.wunderlist.com/">Wunderlist</a> to make weekly and daily lists for myself, then check off things as they're completed. I love clicking that little box and seeing the list item move to the "Recently done" section.</div></li>
<li><b>Stick it out.</b> You can do anything for a short period of time, and writing projects are no different. If you're feeling like you just can't type another word, remind yourself that the end is near. Are you writing a book? A few months to a year is doable, right? Penning an article? You can get through those couple of hours. Being intentional with your writing and setting goals will help, but if you have to clear out your schedule or say "no" to a few things, then do it. Book club can wait. So can cocktails with the gals. Achieve your writing goals <i>now</i>.</li>
</ol>No matter the cause of your writing blues, there is hope, and a prolifically-perfect day is right around the well-worded corner. <br />
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What about you? How do you buck the writing blues?<br />
<ol></ol>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-87173064298257295572012-04-07T16:13:00.000-06:002012-04-07T16:13:13.533-06:00Truth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmaJyXyf7Q_9FlZ7kAIPmGqCy80hjlkWui9yvG1-6QokwGbBjkNAws_iho5PiIVysAUC2e7TFZTy-UjZGnllNn2mYFWmGvfZ8Cpd9U4Ke14-dN316W5dFTkp8hfiHzEbTp2ZRa39mvGn67/s1600/SirKenRobinson.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmaJyXyf7Q_9FlZ7kAIPmGqCy80hjlkWui9yvG1-6QokwGbBjkNAws_iho5PiIVysAUC2e7TFZTy-UjZGnllNn2mYFWmGvfZ8Cpd9U4Ke14-dN316W5dFTkp8hfiHzEbTp2ZRa39mvGn67/s640/SirKenRobinson.tiff" width="640" /></a></div>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-72944868961115961472012-02-01T19:27:00.000-07:002012-02-01T19:27:23.891-07:00Growing Is Forever, by Jesse Rosten<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Today, take a moment to consider the beauty of nature, of this wonderful world we are lucky enough to call home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/wGEV678TFpc?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-23305251517097624562012-01-27T15:30:00.007-07:002012-01-27T15:53:07.673-07:00Why Smiling Is Good Business<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbbmGNjR5FwIVNh8APJ7MGMxGTszdr8r5xQRMyzavwOTMp96YEAtgXowq3Bb_GKOOdKJtCqsdkWqk6Sh8Yc3XZrBv_keZfqBKNlbu4Gmni5aLYv5_flAzhtQzObZ2buTlJbPXt9FGzcVHj/s1600/Smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbbmGNjR5FwIVNh8APJ7MGMxGTszdr8r5xQRMyzavwOTMp96YEAtgXowq3Bb_GKOOdKJtCqsdkWqk6Sh8Yc3XZrBv_keZfqBKNlbu4Gmni5aLYv5_flAzhtQzObZ2buTlJbPXt9FGzcVHj/s320/Smile.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: http://lifethroughartfoundation.blogspot.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>My first week of ninth grade, after transferring to a public school from the Christian one I'd gone to since childhood, I was approached by the friend of a boy who had a crush on me. <br />
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</div><div>"He likes your smile," the friend told me. "He says you always have a big smile on your face, and he thinks it's pretty."</div><div><br />
</div><div>My ninth grade self was pretty embarrassed at this statement, that this boy who'd never even talked to me before liked my smile. Of course, I was too awkward to ever have a conversation with my admirer, but the idea stuck: People like it when you smile.</div><div><br />
</div><div>As an adult, I've kept smiling. I'm not always the most verbally eloquent person, but I am usually smiling and try to be engaged in what the other person is saying. In business, I do the same.</div><div><br />
</div><div>After my recent workshop at the Idaho Business Extravaganza, I learned that several of the participants appreciated my happy disposition and the smile I had throughout most of the presentation.</div><div><br />
</div><div>In meetings, I've found that a smile can get through to even the most reserved client. In interviews I do for writing projects, I've found that laughter and smiles make our time together much more productive and useful.</div><div><br />
</div><div>It's funny: I've also found that a simple smile can break through some of the barriers I face in the work place. As a woman, I know that society believes I should either be like Meryl Streep's character in <i>The Devil Wears Prada</i> or a modern-day June Cleaver. Frowing or smiling. Working or homemaking.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I resist the conventional wisdom that tells me that, as a woman, I need to be stern and assertive, to "prove myself" through my demeanor and words. I resist the idea that work can't be fun, that people can't just get along, that you can't smile through meetings (or have any other emotion, for that matter). Now, I know that you can't always smile genuinely---firing an employee, for example, is a time when a smile might be taken the wrong way---but I do think a happy demeanor is key in business.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I also laugh. A lot. And genuinely, too.</div><div><br />
</div><div>So, try it: Next time you're in a meeting, at a client lunch, or doing something else professionally-oriented, add a few extra smiles into your game plan. I bet you'll like the results.</div>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-18366039531854231622012-01-09T07:59:00.004-07:002012-01-09T08:01:22.447-07:00How to be Alone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My sister shared this video the other day, and it's beautiful. Enjoy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/k7X7sZzSXYs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-53025308461109682802012-01-07T10:22:00.003-07:002012-01-07T10:39:01.587-07:00On Photographs (or, What Will 2012 Bring?)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This quarter, I am taking just one class: memoir writing. In it, we were instructed to choose a photograph---any photograph---which we are to later write a reflective essay on. Instantly, I thought of this photo:</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTlJ2W38OQL8UhNkcHhQwLUpQx_N54Yi52oIWDG5Dv6EeZRmO8n4TT9Mi_dJkIasglffnYlY6hRnId6qifXiBJvlxv2dlYfsjnC3j_pBuA5jIE7EVKJnQDtJ3Czbpm_nydVQwNEgH8I4Xo/s1600/JarabacoaMan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTlJ2W38OQL8UhNkcHhQwLUpQx_N54Yi52oIWDG5Dv6EeZRmO8n4TT9Mi_dJkIasglffnYlY6hRnId6qifXiBJvlxv2dlYfsjnC3j_pBuA5jIE7EVKJnQDtJ3Czbpm_nydVQwNEgH8I4Xo/s320/JarabacoaMan.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
One of my favorite snapshots of our time in the Dominican Republic, this picture captures a lot of things for me: the peacefulness and reflectiveness of travel, the life of the rural Dominicans, the poverty that sneaks up on you as a traveler, waiting around corners and in between buildings, ready to expose itself when you least expect it. But most of all, this image captures a moment in time, a place I loved, and an adventure I won't soon forget.<br />
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Jarabacoa, where the photo was taken, is a rural mountain town known for its crops: strawberries, coffee, and peppers, as well as its flowers. It's a beautiful little place with a nonexistent nightlife, not much in the way of tourism, and definitely little to offer the spoiled traveler who came to the DR for the beaches and five-star resorts; but to us, it was a favorite spot, just a two-hour bus ride away.<br />
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It's also the place where some pretty crazy things happened: the bat that got stuck in our room and dive-bombed me while I was sitting in bed; the hour-long horse ride through the mud and muck of the jungle, in which my husband and friend complained most of the time (but I really enjoyed); the waterfall excursions and swimming in the pools below; drinking beer in <i>el parque</i>, pretending not to feel out of place as the only <i>gringos</i> there; eating at the same restaurant three times because we couldn't find anywhere else; the final trip with a dear friend of mine in the DR, before we parted ways. These are the things I love about my travels to Jarabacoa, the things I'll reminisce about for years to come.<br />
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And while I was looking for the above picture, I came across this one:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMlJA98SUptg8Unri9qsF3Dn9DTKvo-spyI5O9tr_bE7_hKqeWpZQIMJ9mkuw0BhNem1CdHTnebAa1TnEiaik4KGxVWgfoo6DuDERl5atUrBwYCpAkaOuKLls09eb200hi8HOJLa2mZIwp/s1600/ExplorerMe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMlJA98SUptg8Unri9qsF3Dn9DTKvo-spyI5O9tr_bE7_hKqeWpZQIMJ9mkuw0BhNem1CdHTnebAa1TnEiaik4KGxVWgfoo6DuDERl5atUrBwYCpAkaOuKLls09eb200hi8HOJLa2mZIwp/s320/ExplorerMe.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
I call this my "explorer pose," because I, well, was trying to look like a traveler/explorer. To me, this photo, while posed and a bit forced, shows a great deal about me as a person and how I changed in 2009. <br />
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Case in point: Doug loves to tell the story of how, shortly after we started dating, I said something like, "Oh, yeah, I don't stay in hotels less than four stars." At the time, I think Doug just looked at me strangely, not wanting to offend his new girlfriend; later, he told me---and anyone else who would listen---how silly he thought I was for saying such a thing. (I admit, it was a bit silly.) But just a little over a year after that statement, here I am, clad in my explorer outfit, living in a new-to-me third-world country, wearing Chacos and my Timbuk2 bag, ready to tackle some adventures. This is after riding a bumpy bus through winding mountain roads (which, I later learned, is a super deadly and dangerous road), checking into a MUCH less than four-star hotel, and eating some questionable food at a local joint across the street.<br />
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Ah, yes, 2009: the year I became tough.<br />
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As I look at these photos, I can't help but wonder what the heck I'm doing now. If 2009 was the year I became tough, 2010 was the year I "went with it" by randomly moving to Asia, and 2011 was the year my career took off and my hard work was finally recognized, what will 2012 be? <br />
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Well, for starters, it can be the year I realized a lifelong goal: writing a book. But what else? How will I grow personally, professionally, and spiritually? How will I find adventure when I'm stuck here in the U.S., not traveling, and not immersing myself in new cultures? Reaching a lifelong goal isn't enough for me this year; I need to do something big, to keep up with the tradition of years past.<br />
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But, really, you can't plan these things. All you can do is take the opportunities life offers, go with the flow, and try to enjoy it. <br />
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I guess I'll just have to let life be what it is and see where it takes me. As the Dominicans say, "A ver..."Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-69149783442819924922011-12-14T15:46:00.003-07:002011-12-14T15:49:53.581-07:00Quit Wine-ing (Get it? Wine-ing? Wink, wink.)<blockquote class="tr_bq"><b><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Bumper Sticker Guy</span></b><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">: [<i>running after Forrest</i>] Hey man! Hey listen, I was wondering if you might help me. 'Cause I'm in the bumper sticker business and I've been trying to think of a good slogan, and since you've been such a big inspiration to the people around here I thought you might be able to help me jump into - WOAH! Man, you just ran through a big pile of dog shit! </span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 10pt;"><br />
<o:p></o:p></span><b><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Forrest Gump</span></b><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">: It happens.<br />
<o:p></o:p></span><b><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Bumper Sticker guy</span></b><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">: What, shit?<br />
<o:p></o:p></span><b><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Forrest Gump</span></b><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">: Sometimes. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"> </span></blockquote><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yes, it does. And, unfortunately, I had an all-too-unfortunate incident the other day: someone spilled wine all over my lovely, beautiful, gem of a MacBook Pro.</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Now, I know what you're thinking: <i>How will you get through it? What will you do about work? Will you ever love again?</i></span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thanks for the nice thoughts, but I'm doing surprisingly well. My data was recovered and, after going into temporary shock over the medical bills for my drowned computer, I made a decision to move on.</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">And move on I did: right on over to the Apple store.</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">So, with a tip of my hat to the nameless person who spilled wine all over my baby, I am writing this blog from my brand new MacBook Pro...which is pretty much exactly the same as my old one. Almost, except for the $1350.00 difference, I guess.</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;">__</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: xx-small;">Quote source: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109830/quotes">IMDb</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: Arial; font-size: xx-small;">.</span></div>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-37763687379931075822011-11-30T20:33:00.002-07:002011-11-30T20:56:43.579-07:00Yeah, buddy.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQ-MrXkPnHeYiwZzssLzvR_hFGfUA-s69OrpEUk7fKaUXjJf9N6ooR0O7qARNs0m4JS9We9SSuLKRRiW8bFPNJtp2l_EzZDYT-AlBZ63iX0T86BraHHJ7upHA-z29oW9Hju_hUhz-mvld/s1600/hotdogawesome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQ-MrXkPnHeYiwZzssLzvR_hFGfUA-s69OrpEUk7fKaUXjJf9N6ooR0O7qARNs0m4JS9We9SSuLKRRiW8bFPNJtp2l_EzZDYT-AlBZ63iX0T86BraHHJ7upHA-z29oW9Hju_hUhz-mvld/s1600/hotdogawesome.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image source: <a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v287/RavenLoonatic/Natalie%20Dee/?action=view&current=ND-self-esteem-is-awesome.jpg&sort=ascending">Photobucket</a>; P.S. Hot dogs are gross.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Today's one of those days when I wish I could say, "Booyah, Grandma!" without getting weird looks. <br />
<br />
Why, you ask?<br />
<br />
Because I finished a goal. And I'm the celebratin' type.<br />
<br />
The goal was writing a blog post a day for the entire month of November (a.k.a., "NaBloPoMo"). And while a few posts were admittedly a bit on the lazy side, I posted each and every day. It didn't matter if I was sick, tired, or overwhelmed -- or even "not in the blogging mood" -- I did it.<br />
<br />
Okay, yeah. No big deal. It's a blog...so, what?<br />
<br />
I finished a goal; that's what. <br />
<br />
You can't see me, but I am giving myself a big ole pat on the back. Go me.Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-52134881260011403572011-11-29T18:53:00.001-07:002011-11-29T18:56:04.567-07:00Oh, yeah...I forgot<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_uL0nDJeJ9HhLjZsQjOo2awinUuuVb9OQI_7JnL117frp0hxC3co3iC65HxmkOOWyv8TaGNm5hkj4qtAf3_dDtCv7pI-ywKJJBiB6rDzlOhd5X2cGh610wYkdSH_XOH7ckY-hfIlS3Xr3/s1600/lazy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_uL0nDJeJ9HhLjZsQjOo2awinUuuVb9OQI_7JnL117frp0hxC3co3iC65HxmkOOWyv8TaGNm5hkj4qtAf3_dDtCv7pI-ywKJJBiB6rDzlOhd5X2cGh610wYkdSH_XOH7ckY-hfIlS3Xr3/s1600/lazy.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image source: stevebasu.net</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
...about a little thing called laziness.<br />
<br />
Yes, laziness. You know, that thing that <i>forces</i> you to watch Netflix instant, even when you have other, more important things to do? That overwhelming feeling that seems to take over whatever good intentions you had for the day? Yeah, that.<br />
<br />
I'm going to make a radical statement: Laziness can be a good thing.<br />
<br />
Okay, so I realize that I spend a lot of time writing about drive, stick-to-it-iveness, and maintaining focus. I believe in all of those things, and I wholeheartedly believe that we are each on this earth to fulfill our greatest dreams and desires. But I also realize that we're all human, and as humans, we need a little veg time.<br />
<br />
Take today, for example. After working about six hours (with a solid four left to do), I relaxed. You see, my threshold for work is only so high. I can and do maintain high levels of productivity over prolonged periods of time under extreme stress, but today I'd had about enough. I needed to sit and watch two movies, back-to-back, play with our kitten, and have a glass of wine.<br />
<br />
Now, I know I'll be kicking myself for this later, but right now I'm feeling pretty relaxed and, believe it or not, anxious to get back to work. It's good to get some time away from work and spend a few ridiculously lazy hours doing nothing at all. (After all, when you work for yourself, it's not skipping work, it's just putting it off.)<br />
<br />
Tomorrow, I will approach my work with a fresh brain, and I will be productive. For now, I'm going to pour myself another glass of wine and allow myself to relax.<br />
<br />
Want to join me?Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-46621389831437593692011-11-28T19:01:00.004-07:002011-11-28T19:09:35.983-07:00Moving Forward<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryVELpLOq_K1dzrKwppP8_K8AcRSmzVD8fI9YK0eAmh0lmYTACJkacVQ6iJg2Y1Y_x82vPxtJg1ySgWNiw1MS-Xcnc-zW4jxDWJx2jVMdq9a1-zqY-DyfAo3HlrXTK62rlZeYJIyXxAck/s1600/ambition1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryVELpLOq_K1dzrKwppP8_K8AcRSmzVD8fI9YK0eAmh0lmYTACJkacVQ6iJg2Y1Y_x82vPxtJg1ySgWNiw1MS-Xcnc-zW4jxDWJx2jVMdq9a1-zqY-DyfAo3HlrXTK62rlZeYJIyXxAck/s320/ambition1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image source: http://gurugilbert.com/wp-content/ambition1.jpg</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Sometimes, being stagnant is easy. It's easy to keep doing the same thing, day after day, year after year, decade after decade. It's easy, yes, but it's not what makes a person happy.<br />
<br />
Sure, stability is nice. I agree with that. But you know what gets me out of bed each morning (aside from my faith, husband, and all of the other awesome things I have to be thankful for)? It's <i>opportunity</i>. Each day is a new and exciting opportunity to make it better than the last. It's the chance to achieve dreams. It's the crazy attempt to realize each and every thing I've ever wanted to do.<br />
<br />
For me, the key is maintaining a good and positive attitude and work ethic. It's being excited for each day, and really, truly thankful for all of the good things in my life.<br />
<br />
Of course, I could be better. I've been known to sleep in, cranky face to world, not ready to get up and face the day. But those days are few and far between (although my husband might beg to differ), and I really do try to approach each day with an I-can-conquer-the-world attitude.<br />
<br />
I'm curious what other people do to keep themselves moving forward, from being anything but stagnant. Any ideas? I'm all ears.Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-22503317024854918542011-11-27T18:56:00.003-07:002011-11-27T20:28:00.774-07:00Juggling ThingsA few days ago, as I was responding to e-mails, I came to a realization: I juggle a lot of things at once. From multiple client projects to homework to my own writing endeavors, I usually have several things going, and most of them require a lot of careful attention.<br />
<br />
I'm not always the most efficient person in the world, but I am pretty good at juggling my many projects. So, I thought I'd share some of the tricks of the freelance trade. Here are a few ideas to keep yourself organized, stay on task, and be as efficient as possible:<br />
<ol><li><b>Keep a planner. </b> Write everything in it, even things you are <i>sure</i> you'll remember.</li>
<li><b>Make a list.</b> On a piece of paper, write down all of the thing you need to accomplish. Then, number them from most to least important. This will help you determine what to start working on first.</li>
<li><b>Respond to e-mails.</b> I struggle with this one, but I do try to stay on top of my communication. It shows people that you care and that their projects matter to you.</li>
<li><b>Honor deadlines. </b> This might sound simple, but one of the most important things you can do to be efficient is to get things done on time. After all, if you don't honor deadlines, you might not have any deadlines to honor in the future.</li>
<li><b>Celebrate achievements. </b>When you finish a big project, allow yourself some down time. A fresh mind allows you to tackle the next project with efficiency, while forcing yourself to move from one project to another can result in distractions. Instead of wasting time while I'm working (browsing websites, etc.), I give myself short, designated "breaks" -- this is time I don't feel guilty about "wasting," because it's time I've decided can be used for rest.</li>
<li><b>Get exercise. </b> It might be weird to see this on the list of things to keep yourself on task, but trust me: exercise will help you get things done. You'll feel better, have more energy, and be more alert. Plus, I always feel better about eight hours in front of the computer if I've just run six miles. </li>
</ol><div>Juggling multiple projects can be difficult, but use these tips to help keep yourself focused. After all, maintaining focus is one of the most important aspects of meeting one's goal.</div>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-37983768766119824482011-11-26T21:24:00.001-07:002011-11-26T21:29:21.656-07:00Today was pretty splendid. I was awakened to my husband calling me for breakfast and coffee (yes, please!). I then did a little cleaning and went on a nice 6-mile (or so) run.<br />
<br />
After that, I watched the BSU win, lounged around a little bit, ate a delicious dinner of tofu fried rice (again, made by my husband), and went to get a drink with a friend. We also narrowly avoided a house fire, but that's another blog entry.<br />
<br />
Not bad, not bad at all.<br />
<br />
You see, days like this don't come very often for me. So, when they do, I really, really enjoy them. It makes all of the long hours worth it, you know? With my schedule, something as simple a couple hours of free time feels like a little but of a miracle, and down days like this are precious.<br />
<br />
I sometimes wonder if this is normal -- does everyone have schedules like mine? When will my life be less hectic? Or, will it? Only time will tell, I guess.<br />
Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-88363928651740899042011-11-25T19:05:00.001-07:002011-11-25T19:07:00.621-07:00How to Dry a Cat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzPIDayScxN6sqEM2F8WC0at05u4KTMSjTLhEEY4CaZzBN9bjYoKTjL_x8hMgSS-XRgbItPXWvlNocLelE-SA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-89171408047681389812011-11-24T22:02:00.001-07:002011-11-24T22:02:19.638-07:00Giving ThanksToday, I have much to be thankful for, but I'll list a few here:<br />
<br />
1. A great husband who supports me in every crazy thing I do.<br />
2. My family, who never fails to laugh at my jokes and pretend to be impressed by my tiny accomplishments.<br />
3. My friends and extended family, because life would gray without all of their colorful personalities.<br />
4. My health, which has been free of the touch of cancer and other illnesses.<br />
5. My career, in which I have been undeservedly blessed in recent months.<br />
6. A house to call home, a kitty to snuggle, food in my fridge, and money in the bank.<br />
7. My education, because it is helping me realize my dreams.<br />
8. The privilege of being born in the U.S. Despite our troubles, it's still a pretty great place to live.<br />
<br />
Those are just a few of the things I am thankful for...and I am so very, very thankful.Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-90343463756460142522011-11-23T21:23:00.000-07:002011-11-23T21:23:00.051-07:00Kitty, Anyone?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Today, we rescued a sweet little kitty; we've been trying to catch her for over a month, and we were finally successful today. We can't keep her, and we're looking for a good home in Cincinnati. She is an absolute sweetheart, and I know she'll warm up to a loving person or family.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We cleaned her up today, scrubbing her really well with Dawn (recommended at Petsmart to kill fleas, since she is a stray). We have her scheduled for a vet appointment on Friday and to be spayed on Tuesday. She'll get all of her necessary shots at the vet appointment, too, so she'll be ready to go home with someone next week.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNRa2I0im5-D-LEnqLtUKNoIDedGfjGh4te-BNm_sOP9p4oSv_YfDU1uVDc0jYaH8yojSv48VLB7f_EmA_HlPu_Iv5UuRgR_EckL7scbCc-tfmakxUZ_0XmQyoZOl0IHaqKX3bmN166k1_/s640/blogger-image--1031425863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNRa2I0im5-D-LEnqLtUKNoIDedGfjGh4te-BNm_sOP9p4oSv_YfDU1uVDc0jYaH8yojSv48VLB7f_EmA_HlPu_Iv5UuRgR_EckL7scbCc-tfmakxUZ_0XmQyoZOl0IHaqKX3bmN166k1_/s640/blogger-image--1031425863.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here she is before her bath. The poor thing was terrified.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtJukV19VJBR-JKG-Mszrhplr0C85dHhI6fK-zkMY_0Aqdquzydt14doLr0wzx9vK91Q0txnhT0MnLE5CPJegXBfkfcqoWVpG0R8ZSO14gtSquFZmHJYy-KhFyex7kDhHg4L84RMsz6fT8/s640/blogger-image-2082013706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtJukV19VJBR-JKG-Mszrhplr0C85dHhI6fK-zkMY_0Aqdquzydt14doLr0wzx9vK91Q0txnhT0MnLE5CPJegXBfkfcqoWVpG0R8ZSO14gtSquFZmHJYy-KhFyex7kDhHg4L84RMsz6fT8/s640/blogger-image-2082013706.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Understandably, baths aren't her favorite.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6WIbvXVW47ySF3eHApOivK-XCJo5l37buQmUZOyA7_8qgtkDRppaJ6aUdOWNMMNC-AwGF3mlaQ2N-pkr4Dn1jxMtDKpevCdUT4TGKiAqvkKZMfIViwOrmsQu1nkX_PUV-83RKgTxxKxPu/s640/blogger-image--1816747888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6WIbvXVW47ySF3eHApOivK-XCJo5l37buQmUZOyA7_8qgtkDRppaJ6aUdOWNMMNC-AwGF3mlaQ2N-pkr4Dn1jxMtDKpevCdUT4TGKiAqvkKZMfIViwOrmsQu1nkX_PUV-83RKgTxxKxPu/s640/blogger-image--1816747888.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm pretty sure she's thinking, "Hmmm...I could get used to this."</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFCcEGhaIrrNa3Kr5xDK_umoHKLqAVfBLhcSe85_00hW35ahdpT_PiAPztr7HXEiZRVq6JWvD36bl3cXabEAsOsBiZPM-xhW3jOmWqdnGI_BqUDsPXkUO3e01uBkK3hBf7w07HUkNn_exI/s1600/kitty1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFCcEGhaIrrNa3Kr5xDK_umoHKLqAVfBLhcSe85_00hW35ahdpT_PiAPztr7HXEiZRVq6JWvD36bl3cXabEAsOsBiZPM-xhW3jOmWqdnGI_BqUDsPXkUO3e01uBkK3hBf7w07HUkNn_exI/s320/kitty1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still wet, but feelin' good.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UUaUS_bkbFCJXniF3rB_khkeBkGLn9eQc2Jpe_v_tmG2-_dHLo-amiakGXqg9D92wuobuJsCJdTN-mMRX3E8FDcctFtfp7ntDpstqBKj_5APpu5LyiGfVHT1nqAYRWObWBpJ2rAeCQAV/s1600/kitty2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UUaUS_bkbFCJXniF3rB_khkeBkGLn9eQc2Jpe_v_tmG2-_dHLo-amiakGXqg9D92wuobuJsCJdTN-mMRX3E8FDcctFtfp7ntDpstqBKj_5APpu5LyiGfVHT1nqAYRWObWBpJ2rAeCQAV/s320/kitty2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a little smushkins, looking for a home.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you're interested in adopting this little bundle of love, please e-mail me at writer@freelancexpat.com.</div>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-5031334403010037542011-11-22T14:59:00.003-07:002011-11-22T15:03:26.804-07:00Keeping It in PerspectiveThings that went wrong in the last week or so:<br />
<ol><li>My husband ran our car over a concrete slab (on accident, of course); this cost around $400.00 of unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.</li>
<li>I got a speeding ticket, along with a ticket for not being registered (it's a long story; we're trying to renew our registration in Idaho, but we're having trouble getting it done).</li>
<li>My husband's computer died. When he called to find out about fixing it, he was told that it costs $200.00 per hour to have it looked at/fixed. I mean, c'mon...is this for real?</li>
<li>I called about the speeding ticket, after realizing that it is due today. Apparently, in Reading, Ohio, if you don't pay the ticket in full by the date stipulated, a warrant is put out for your arrest. So, I had to walk to the post office and send the check for $130.00.</li>
</ol><div>Things that went right in the last week or so:</div><div><ol><li>I signed a book contract.</li>
</ol><div>Yeah, I think this about evens things out. :)<br />
<br />
Of course, there are many other things that are always going right in my life: a great little family (my husband and cat), a thriving career, great friendships, a roof over my head, etc. But, for now, I think the contract will get me through the next 30 things that go wrong.</div></div>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-87671072207767351212011-11-21T15:28:00.016-07:002011-11-21T15:53:44.330-07:00Feral Cat Shelters: Save a Cat Today<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibrzXQwTf-Csilr03I-lU5NdjiLOdmoqAoXWs9eYyWKCt3_YmngauPtfk0OhBIIguhzb_cEbfntkF-hxv0JFUcQ-ZBF4yJYW-3aTDWlDHIWv23bj5ZCVnjJ8CxHKjkvUyy5VVUjsDRXCPk/s640/blogger-image--221546989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibrzXQwTf-Csilr03I-lU5NdjiLOdmoqAoXWs9eYyWKCt3_YmngauPtfk0OhBIIguhzb_cEbfntkF-hxv0JFUcQ-ZBF4yJYW-3aTDWlDHIWv23bj5ZCVnjJ8CxHKjkvUyy5VVUjsDRXCPk/s320/blogger-image--221546989.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">The top of one of the feral cat shelters from Ohio Alleycat Resource.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ever since moving into our apartment in July, my husband and I have found the stray cat problem in our part of Cincinnati troubling. When we first arrived, there were several baby kittens (which we tried, unsuccessfully, to catch), and it seemed that each day we'd see a new cat.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We knew that we couldn't adopt them, as our apartment only allows for one cat, but we didn't know what to do to help them. Taking them to the pound was out, because we all know what happens when feral cats go to the pound, and the no kill shelters are <i>always</i> full. Plus, a cat living the rest of its life inside a cage (because no one would want it) doesn't seem fair.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As soon as the cold weather started rolling in, I knew we had to do something. Our meager income right now (thanks to graduate school) doesn't allow us to buy or build a nice shelter for them, but there's no way the poor cats could survive the freezing temperatures. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This morning, as I was getting ready for work, my husband called up the stairs to me, "Look out at our deck."</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"What is it?" I asked.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Just look. Look at the poor cat."</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Outside, on this freezing cold Ohio morning, was a cat sleeping on a pile of leaves on our deck. The poor thing looked so cold and lonely, and my heart broke looking at it. Then, I noticed another cat lying on a tall table, which stood in the other corner of our deck. As I looked at the cats, I felt terrible, yet helpless. What could I do?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thankfully, just a few minutes later, a dear friend of mine posted about feral cat shelters (thanks, Em!). So, I called several shelters, and I finally found a place that provides them for free. Not only that, but they provide a $10.00 spay/neuter and tetanus shot for any trapped feral cats, and they'll rent traps for free (a $50.00 deposit is required, but it is returned when the trap is). They rely on grants and donations, so be sure to give whatever you can to help them help more cats. You can always donate the materials, too, in place of the shelters you take.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The shelter is called <a href="http://www.ohioalleycat.org/">Ohio Alleycat Resource,</a> and it's located at 5619 Orlando in Cincinnati; their contact info is <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;">513-871-7297</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"> or </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><a href="mailto:info@theanimalrescue.com">info@theanimalrescue.com</a></span>.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Below are some photos of the shelters they provide. All shelters are made by volunteers from donated styrofoam coolers and other materials.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: 13px;"></span></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 6px; padding-right: 6px; padding-top: 6px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQy9RIThzfjWwvbYz9uMUmze0-B5WwKk5aBR6-Mnrg5MXJ2AHmYfVlmjN2NJ0vgwz-d3hASMKLVzBQ2KLxStc6OBcB-DB3GJPHcYO9cx3SNyfSz5Ud3Et0gBUEnPGm6jhgcA4cWR7E93yD/s320/blogger-image--710268322.jpg" style="cursor: move; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="239" /></div></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">This is one of the shelters, which we placed in the corner of the deck, near the leaves the kitty was sleeping on top of this morning. Notice that the lid of the styrofoam cooler is glued on, and it seems to be covered in some sort of paint, which I assume is water resistant.</span></div><div style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaNel1fP0i6qmJ-HURd9vkuXg5zRgdATyVe4ISgxJAkLrLw4FPTcASYBwkvVPbC-k8QWRd3xZb8cu7o8euJW46jfV9eobcA0aPgF9nNtxiOo35oDegFNeTChX63D5VI3RUXgzxlKxQAZ-N/s320/blogger-image-2072320997.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="239" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">The styrofoam is lined with aluminum to keep the cats warm, a bed is made out of hay, and a hole is cut for the entrance (see above). I'm guessing the size and height of the entrance helps keep other wild animals, such as possums and raccoons, from entering the shelters.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqhXhqZ8ioYaFg87JKBd2bKaodFK_1cVFdFhBFRI5g5W42t-ta7mmNsI-0kn2XAJM5Bzm0jy8Ys2RviV6inN-USQNoPSxRzzprm-siP__QUQKA1EMyWRiiZC0A2Gbw39yL7-YwRCuUgjH/s320/blogger-image-664565997.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="239" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">We placed the other shelter near the table the other cat was sleeping on this morning.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqhXhqZ8ioYaFg87JKBd2bKaodFK_1cVFdFhBFRI5g5W42t-ta7mmNsI-0kn2XAJM5Bzm0jy8Ys2RviV6inN-USQNoPSxRzzprm-siP__QUQKA1EMyWRiiZC0A2Gbw39yL7-YwRCuUgjH/s640/blogger-image-664565997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQy9RIThzfjWwvbYz9uMUmze0-B5WwKk5aBR6-Mnrg5MXJ2AHmYfVlmjN2NJ0vgwz-d3hASMKLVzBQ2KLxStc6OBcB-DB3GJPHcYO9cx3SNyfSz5Ud3Et0gBUEnPGm6jhgcA4cWR7E93yD/s640/blogger-image--710268322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0E5jOmHk6Xk-GooY2-ZEsd1hiRKaXHX-BC5uXFoP1u3xKKqziCqaJX1I7fSreRtxa5vTZHt9ooYHc24BiibKbYhE95EON0YSuF1OlvN_x0r1aLue708wbMKc-0I9J_X9vxx7p5J2DOVU/s320/blogger-image-64902353.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="239" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">The cat didn't end up going into the shelter, but she was thinking about it! Let's hope she uses it tonight.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0E5jOmHk6Xk-GooY2-ZEsd1hiRKaXHX-BC5uXFoP1u3xKKqziCqaJX1I7fSreRtxa5vTZHt9ooYHc24BiibKbYhE95EON0YSuF1OlvN_x0r1aLue708wbMKc-0I9J_X9vxx7p5J2DOVU/s640/blogger-image-64902353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Can't get enough of the strays? Read the "<a href="http://stacylovestowrite.blogspot.com/2011/08/ode-to-ferrel-cats-everywhere.html">Ode to Feral Cats Everywhere</a>," and learn why I'm so in love with stray cats.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-36312847318777225852011-11-20T14:58:00.003-07:002011-11-20T15:04:03.218-07:00Justin Foster Is Interesting. Oatmeal Is Not.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Earlier this week, I promised a post about one of the authors or books that I've worked with. One of those authors is Justin Foster, and I've had the opportunity to work with him on several projects and books, including his own. Below is an article that originally appeared in the winter 2011 issue of </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Fusion Magazine</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. Be sure to read the entire article -- there is a giveaway at the end!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRpb8zuZuKUKU8MEqg1ZEn_DmoIwjv1AD4abwRcCm2DJhj_2DlG6uktjjsldAA9C_aO3qoG2Vy4fZRnl24GGNMirC6yaktU0D3PTGCRToTeBcojLfe44GgP_U0n9hdD7fux2Sa7MTicBG1/s1600/OatmealvBacon.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRpb8zuZuKUKU8MEqg1ZEn_DmoIwjv1AD4abwRcCm2DJhj_2DlG6uktjjsldAA9C_aO3qoG2Vy4fZRnl24GGNMirC6yaktU0D3PTGCRToTeBcojLfe44GgP_U0n9hdD7fux2Sa7MTicBG1/s320/OatmealvBacon.png" width="239" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Bacon is interesting. Oatmeal is not.” Such is the premise of Justin Foster’s book, <i>Oatmeal v Bacon: How to Differentiate in a Generic World</i>. Foster, a Boise area resident, brand strategy expert, speaker, writer and “general disruptor of conformity” is known for his ability to help brands communicate how awesome they really are. Or, as Justin might put it, how “Bacon” they really are.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Oatmeal v Bacon</i> is a useful, interesting and witty 65-page book that will “instantly make [business owners] smarter than most of the people in their given market,” Justin says. The book includes a “Bacon Assessment,” personal branding assessment and benchmarks to help businesses evaluate their brand effectiveness. And, who wouldn’t want to read a book that is, as Justin puts it, “short, humorous and useful”? It includes practical strategies to help “Bacon Brands” embrace their sizzle and take their branding efforts to the next level, thereby attracting customers and improving client loyalty.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, what does this metaphor really mean, anyway? “Selling the Oatmeal,” according to Justin, is trying to sell something boring—a brand, business model or product—using boring strategies like “a PowerPoint, overly-designed marketing materials that nobody ever reads and a pitch.” Justin’s “Aha!” moment came one day while watching Jim Gaffigan do a bit about bacon. “Oatmeal,” Justin realized, “is boring, bland and you have to put something on it. Bacon is…bacon.” Or, as Jim Gaffigan put it, “Bacon is so good they wrap it around other meats to make it taste better.” So, “Bacon Brands” are interesting brands, brands that are different and unique. Oatmeal brands are boring, generic and create little to no interest from their prospective customer base. “As pollen is to bees,” Justin says, “bacon is to people.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When asked about what local companies Justin considered to be Bacon Brands, he responded quickly with his top five, which he explained received a 45 or higher out of 50 score on the Bacon Assessment. Those brands are:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 47.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Brick 29 Bistro in Nampa<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 47.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Flying M coffee shops in Boise and Nampa<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 47.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Tribute Media, a Meridian-based web marketing and web development company<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 47.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span><a href="http://bodybuilding.com/"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none;">Bodybuilding.com</span></a>, a Meridian-based, supplement e-commerce company<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 47.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>Fisher’s Document Systems, a Boise-based regional document systems company (note: they are one of Justin’s clients)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">According to Justin, “It’s the businesses that advertise the most that seem to have the hardest time retaining their customer base, because they don’t know how to create differentiation, loyalty or connect emotionally with clients.” He wanted to help these businesses. After realizing that, due to the sheer number and varied budgets of businesses, he couldn’t possibly help everyone, he finally said, “I guess I’ll just write a book.” So, he did, over a period of three months, devoting Thursday afternoons to crafting a useful, enlightening and practical book that he could offer to these businesses. The end product is just that, and the demand has been so great that Justin is already working on his next title.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Oatmeal v Bacon</i>, which started four years ago at the suggestion of his Boise-based publisher, Maryanna Young of Aloha Publishing, is finally available on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Oatmeal-Bacon-Differentiate-Generic-World/dp/161206003X"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none;">Amazon</span></a> for $15.95. <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">To get your free copy of <i>Oatmeal v Bacon</i></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">, be one of the first five to respond in a few sentences to the following question: “How is your brand a Bacon Brand?” Just go to the contact form at www.OatmealvBacon.com and enter your response in the “comments” area.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">___<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XsILJiaSQCwZ36ajpxtQXPBrKhmTHp398c4VhMu7tOtEHOMy9ST6RGYR8rpeS651VFszNzcISdn5xCkSQP9uG-3o50TBI0qhyphenhyphenhMY74uddHQ_ZqgQT0SW-SE8zz04ysBCEwFtot5k94ge/s1600/JustinFoster1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XsILJiaSQCwZ36ajpxtQXPBrKhmTHp398c4VhMu7tOtEHOMy9ST6RGYR8rpeS651VFszNzcISdn5xCkSQP9uG-3o50TBI0qhyphenhyphenhMY74uddHQ_ZqgQT0SW-SE8zz04ysBCEwFtot5k94ge/s200/JustinFoster1.png" width="200" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Justin is a brand strategist who helps clients create a meaningful, relevant presence in the marketplace by “blowing stuff up” and helping clients find real strategies for taking their brands to the next level. He lives in Caldwell, Idaho, with his wife, Lynna, and two kids. He is available for speaking engagements and consulting through his business, Foster Thinking. To contact Justin or learn more about <i>Oatmeal v Bacon</i>, visit <a href="http://www.fosterthinking.com/">www.fosterthinking.com</a> and <a href="http://www.oatmealvbacon.com/">www.OatmealvBacon.com</a>.</span><o:p></o:p></div>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-10883376333485938602011-11-19T19:23:00.001-07:002011-11-19T19:23:38.720-07:00Today is my day off......and so it follows that it's sort of a blog day off, too. After all, NaBloPoMo doesn't specify a word count, right?<br />
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But I am making an appearance to let you know that tomorrow will bring good things. Check early and check often.<br />
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Go Broncos!Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-41981836554734359022011-11-18T21:21:00.001-07:002011-11-18T21:22:34.857-07:00The Toys of My ChildhoodToday's <a href="http://creativewritingprompts.com/">prompt</a> is #22, "In 200 words, write about your first toy."<br />
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Like most memories, mine become blurred the farther back in time they go, until they nearly fade out into a black and white blur. But I do remember some things with startling clarity, and one of those things is my favorite stuffed animal, a toy maker's replica of a basset hound. <br />
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My dog had the saddest eyes I'd ever seen, and they had such an effect on me that I felt instance empathy every time I looked into his puppy dog eyes. His long ears fell around his face in the floppiest of fashions, and he had a pouch in his back, which was perfect for storing small picture books, yo-yos, and the other odds and ends of my childhood.<br />
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I used to have a cubby light built into the headboard of my waterbed, and I remember spending sleepless nights with the light on, its short-reaching glow forcing me to huddle next to it. It was on those sleepless nights that I'd line up my favorite toys: the gray rabbit, who had a striking resemblance to the velveteen rabbit; the two-sided doll, who was asleep or awake, the switch made by pulling her dress over the opposite face; Baby Dear, the doll from my mom's childhood, who had a lazy left eye as a result of time's impact on its opening and closing lids. I would look at them knowingly, waiting for them to come to life, to dance around, to talk to me. I would swear, to no one but myself, that I saw them move, a whisker twitch, an eyelid flutter.<br />
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Of course, this never happened. And as I grew, the toys ended up in the corner of the room, and then a hammock-like toy holder attached to my ceiling, and then, finally, the attic. It is there that my toys still live, in my parents' house, inside of two garbage sacks, which are meant to keep the dust out. Perhaps they will eventually occupy the rooms of my children someday.<br />
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The toys of my childhood sit in an attic in Idaho, not collecting dust, and not talking to children.Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-25982649109684070252011-11-17T21:08:00.001-07:002011-11-17T21:16:23.993-07:00Want a Free...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMv8sxV9aEcZolHklut1hC_pOHGS62FaXtIQgmdJ6NtiKKwv0DFiTN5lL5_cRTBMiavTGSoreavXEsEdPkcAN7yAmO6VQKI7uXvkBJXiC_fOHMksXSiCnqPK2lEVIJE60zDPVBaxlCxOV/s1600/winnermom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMv8sxV9aEcZolHklut1hC_pOHGS62FaXtIQgmdJ6NtiKKwv0DFiTN5lL5_cRTBMiavTGSoreavXEsEdPkcAN7yAmO6VQKI7uXvkBJXiC_fOHMksXSiCnqPK2lEVIJE60zDPVBaxlCxOV/s1600/winnermom.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image source: http://griffinshoney.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Earlier this week, I mentioned that I would be posting about an author and/or book I've worked with. Well, there's more. Much more.<br />
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Later this week, in addition to an in-depth look at one of the books and authors I've worked with, there will be something cool. Really cool.<br />
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This something is so neat and awesome that you wouldn't believe how neat and awesome it is. It's super neat and awesome.<br />
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What is it, you say?<br />
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Why, I thought you'd never ask.<br />
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<b>This week, there will be a giveaway. </b> It may or may not be related to the book and/or author I've worked with. It's hard to say. (But it probably is.) <i>Insert knowing laugh here.</i><br />
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You don't need to submit an entry form, fill out a credit card offer, or deposit a check from the Republic of the Congo. All you had to do is check back frequently and then follow the instructions in the blog post. It's that simple.<br />
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When, you ask?<br />
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Sometime this week. And that's all you need to know for now.Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-28571385320613251572011-11-16T07:39:00.003-07:002011-11-16T07:42:01.946-07:00Courage Is the Thing, You Know?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP86vebWnawxHBmb7H3tyL7U_wmoqlV9yyzeyOuZ-HbLkTJkQ61B0LuK9B9fij9CVM9luGjjalOtdWmPVVFmvzHXKCxJ6t6l5r_-EpDwYDo-1ejJPYr7wjNjnyeO13KwAK3dp7zSOMgcWT/s1600/MatthewKellyBookofCourage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP86vebWnawxHBmb7H3tyL7U_wmoqlV9yyzeyOuZ-HbLkTJkQ61B0LuK9B9fij9CVM9luGjjalOtdWmPVVFmvzHXKCxJ6t6l5r_-EpDwYDo-1ejJPYr7wjNjnyeO13KwAK3dp7zSOMgcWT/s1600/MatthewKellyBookofCourage.jpg" /></a></div>For my birthday, my sister got me Matthew Kelly's <i><a href="http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Book-of-Courage/Matthew-F-Kelly/e/9781929266104?r=1&cm_mmc=GooglePLA-_-Book-_-Q000000633-_-9781929266104&cm_mmca2=pla">The Book of Courage</a>, </i>which contains pages and pages of quotes on the subject of courage. (Interesting fact: Kelly has been compiling these quotes since he was seventeen years old!)<br />
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At first, I didn't really "get" why courage was such an important topic. I mean, I understood why a person would want to have courage in certain circumstances -- public speaking, for example -- but I didn't really understand why fear is such an all-encompassing, and often debilitating, emotion.<br />
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In his introduction, Kelly explains why fear is so pervasive: it keeps us from accomplishing our goals, from attempting new things, from bouncing back after life-altering or traumatic circumstances.<br />
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Fear keeps us stagnant, tentative. Courage gives us the inner power to pursue things that <i>matter</i>.<br />
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One section of the introduction really grabbed me:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">Don't waste your life, because life is there -- all you have to do is reach our and embrace it. Anything is possible. Whatever your dream is, make it happen. Have courage. Start today. You will be amazed what life will give you in return for a little bit of courage. </blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><b>Be certain of one thing, the measure of your life will be the measure of your courage.</b></blockquote>Powerful words, right?<br />
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Those of you who know me personally know that parts of my life have been a truly uphill battle, and I don't hesitate to call myself courageous. But after battling through that part of my life, I thought I didn't need to be courageous anymore. Wrong.<br />
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Courage is always present in our lives. It is the driving force, the thing that gives you the "umph" you need to keep on keepin' on. <br />
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Courage is stepping away from the comfort of a 9-to-5 and pursuing your passion. It's skydiving. It's traveling to new places and meeting new people. It's going back to school after 20 years. It's writing a book. It's starting to exercise and taking control of your health. It's attempting a new home improvement project. It's joining a social group and making new friends.<br />
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Courage is small, and it is big. It can be easy to come by, and it can be the most difficult thing in the world to muster.<br />
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Kelly says:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">So, what are we waiting for? We only get one shot at life. Isn't it time for a little soul-searching? Visit a quiet church in the middle of the day. Take a walk in the park. Turn off the television and talk to your children. Open the paper and look for the job you've always wanted. Keep a promise. Tell your mom you love her. Restore an old Ford. Make friends with your neighbors. Say yes instead of maybe. Watch a sunset. Write your spouse a love letter. Fly a kite. Say "sorry". Ask that girl out on a date. Try a food you've never tasted before. Make peace with God.</blockquote>He's right: what <i>are </i>we waiting for? Life is so precious and so short -- let us go out into the world and make the most of it.Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3869750030838324574.post-22331561341355698022011-11-15T17:03:00.004-07:002011-11-15T17:05:13.596-07:00Working with Authors and Books (Or, Why I Love My Job)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As an editor and a writer, I have had the privilege of working with some wonderful people and excellent books. Each project is a new experience, and I learn a great deal -- both about life and about the subject matter I'm working with. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In fact, I've learned so much that I sometimes wonder what I'm going to do with all of the random facts, definitions, and tidbits I've accumulated in my brain. (Somebody once joked that I should go on Jeopardy. I'm pretty sure I would win.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But, seriously: I love working with authors and editing books. It's a true joy. Sometimes I wonder how I got so lucky to be doing this for a living. I mean, c'mon -- I get paid to read and write! It doesn't get much better than that.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, since I've been lucky enough to work with all of these great people and books, I think it's about time I tell you about some of them. So, here's my plan: each month, I will post about one of the books I've worked with. I might do it more often than that, but you can expect at least one per month, with the first one coming this week. Which one, you ask? You'll have to wait and see -- it's no fun if it's not a surprise!</div>Stacy Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01549433540859222506noreply@blogger.com2