tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9493809397017523382024-02-22T06:29:13.473-05:00Ellie's Writing DeskWriting tips, prompts, contests, and more.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-37481683253747843992012-07-10T15:32:00.001-04:002012-07-10T15:33:42.683-04:00Kids Hummingbird Poetry Contest 2012Here's a fun writing contest for kids.<br /><br /><b>Genre:</b> Poetry about hummingbirds<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Original work submitted by an author 6-12 years old. Entries will be submitted via an online form on the website.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> September 30, 2012<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> 3 lucky winners will receive a Hummingbird Recycler Feeder Kit.<br /><br /><b>Entry fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> Please see <u><a href="http://www.hummingbird-guide.com/kids-hummingbird-poetry-contest.html">Kids Hummingbird Poetry Contest</a></u> for additional rules and terms.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-24513910737826405432012-06-30T13:59:00.003-04:002012-06-30T14:03:37.121-04:002012 Travel Writing Contest from 52 Perfect DaysThis contest has some fantastic prizes!<br /><br /><b>Genre:</b> Travel article<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> All submissions must be original, unpublished work on the theme of Culinary or Wine Tourism. Must be submitted by e-mail, with a maximum of 1000 words. Entrants must be at least 18 years old and legal residents of the United States (excluding territories), Mexico, or Canada. Residents of Arizona and Vermont are not eligible for cash prizes.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> November 30, 2012<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> 1st Prize is a 5-night stay in California's Napa Valley. This includes accommodations at the <u><a href="http://www.romanspahotsprings.com/">Roman Spa Hot Springs</a></u> in Calistoga, private wine tastings and winery tours, meals, shopping, and more. No actual retail value is given for this prize.<br /><br />2nd Prize is a 2-night stay in <u><a href="http://www.adobeguadalupe.com/en/adobe_where_en.html">Mexico's Guadalupe Valley</a></u>. This includes accommodations at the <u><a href="http://www.adobeguadalupe.com/en/">Adobe Guadalupe</a></u>, horseback riding, and private wine tastings and tours. Retail value: $700.<br /><br />3rd Prize is a custom Wordpress website from <u><a href="http://www.zddesign.net/">ZD Design</a></u>. Retail value: $1200.<br /><br />There will also be ten 4th Prizes consisting of a <u><a href="http://bottlewise.com/wine-culinary/bottlewise-rollup/">BottleWise Rollup</a></u> wine travel case valued at $19.99.<br /><br /><b>Entry fee:</b> none<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> Please see <u><a href="http://www.52perfectdays.com/2012-travel-writing-contest/">the contest page</a></u> and the <u><a href="http://www.52perfectdays.com/2012-travel-writing-contest/guidelines/">guidelines page</a></u> at 52PerfectDays.com for additional rules and terms.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-14044192743448219802012-06-29T14:03:00.001-04:002012-06-29T14:04:58.799-04:00Traveling for Fun, Adventure and Relaxation Blog Contest<b>Genre:</b> Blog post<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Must be posted at TrendyTravelers Travel Blog<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> August 31, 2012<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> Cash prizes total $1000, divided between three categories. $500 for First Place in "Best Travel Blog." $250 for First Place in "My Favorite Trip or Vacation." $250 for First Place in "My Hometown/Destination Business is a Great Travel Destination Because..."<br /><br /><b>Entry fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> Please see the contest page at <u><a href="http://trendytraveler.com/travel-planner/win-free-cruises-and-contest-giveaways/traveling-fun-adventure-relaxation-blog-writing-contest-1000-cash-prizes">Trendy Travelers</a></u> for additional rules and terms.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-83380728023674582182012-06-28T13:16:00.001-04:002012-06-28T13:17:16.241-04:00Swanezine Short Story Competition 2012<b>Genre:</b> Short story<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Open to UK residents only. Maximum 2 entries per author, with each having no more than 1000 words. Must be original unpublished work submitted in the text of an e-mail.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> August 31, 2012<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> First Prize is £30. Second Prize is £20. Third Prize is £10.<br /><br /><b>Entry fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> Please see <u><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/swanezine/short-story-competition">Swanezine Short Story Competition</a></u> for additional rules and terms.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-18167325523719204562012-06-27T12:16:00.005-04:002012-06-27T12:32:35.410-04:00Backacrehomestead.com Writing Contest<b>Genre:</b> Non-fiction article<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Preferably at least 1000 words, with 750 words as the absolute minimum. Must be original work pertaining to the subjects covered on the website, with articles about homesteading, self sufficiency, farming, gardening, and survival having an advantage over other topics. No limit on number of submissions, which must be e-mail as plain text documents (preferably written in Notepad).<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> August 31, 2012<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> $100 Visa gift card<br /><br /><b>Entry fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> Please see <u><a href="http://backacrehomestead.com/writing-contest">Backacrehomestead.com</a></u> for additional rules and terms.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-51229730659027288082012-06-22T13:21:00.002-04:002012-06-22T13:23:04.954-04:00Past Loves Day Story Contest 2012<b>Genre:</b> True story<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Must be a true story about a past love, with a maximum of 700 words. No restriction on tone. Entries may be submitted by e-mail or regular mail.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> September 17, 2012<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> First prize is $100. Second prize is $75. Third prize is $50.<br /><br /><b>Entry fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> <u><a href="http://www.ourpastloves.com/contest">Past Loves Day Story Contest</a></u>. Includes links to previous winners.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-1924862651201765762012-06-20T14:33:00.002-04:002012-06-20T14:37:49.113-04:002012 Science Fiction Poetry Association Poetry Contest<b>Genre:</b> Speculative poetry<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Limited to 1 previously unpublished poem per category. E-mail submissions only, with poems in the body of the message or in an attached .rtf file. Entrants who are not members of SFPA should indicate this fact, which makes them eligible for an additional prize.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> September 15, 2012<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> The poem's length determines its category. A special prize for the best poem by a non-SFPA-member poet will also be awarded. 1st prize in each category will be $50 cash, a one-year SPFA membership, and publications donated by membership. Runners-up will have their choice of one publication donated by SFPA members. Winners and runners-up will be published on both <u><a href="http://www.sfpoetry.com/index.html">SPFA</a></u> and <u><a href="http://starshipsofa.com">Poetry Planet</a></u>.<br /><br /><b>Entry Fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> <u><a href="http://www.sfpoetry.com/contests.html">Science Fiction Poetry Association</a></u>Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-25715846078860695092012-06-18T13:11:00.001-04:002012-06-18T13:13:00.864-04:00Writing Contest for Dog Lovers<b>Genre:</b> Non-fiction<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> For dog rescuers 18 and older. Write a compelling story about your dog's rescue in 500-1000 words. A photo of your dog is encouraged but not required. One entry per family. Must include word count and author's name, address, e-mail address, and phone number. All submissions must be submitted via e-mail in a .doc or .rtf format.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> September 1, 2012<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> A $50 donation will be made to the animal shelter of the winner's choice. Everyone selected for publication in <i>Mighty Tales of Rescue</i> will receive a digital copy of the anthology. In addition, the winner will also receive a digital copy of <i>Beating Cancer</i>, an anthology of cancer survivor stories.<br /><br /><b>Entry Fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> <u><a href="http://beckyjacoby.com/blog/2012/03/05/announcing-a-writing-contest-for-dog-lovers/">Writing Contest for Dog Lovers</a></u>Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-84661777266207822362012-06-16T12:55:00.006-04:002012-06-16T13:58:53.289-04:00Texas Book Festival's 11th Annual Fiction Writing Contest<b>Genre:</b> Fiction<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> This contest is limited to students in grades 7-12 in Texas. The story must use the theme "Out of the Blue" and have a maximum of 2000 words. Entries must be double-spaced, formatted as a Microsoft Word document, and submitted online.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> July 27, 2012<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> Stories will be entered in one of three divisions: Grades 7-8; Grades 9-10; or Grades 11-12. Prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place in each division. First-place winners will have the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion on writing and the inspiration for their stories at the Texas Book Festival, to be held October 27-28 at the Capitol Building in Austin. There is no information about any prize money that may be awarded.<br /><br /><b>Entry Fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> <u><a href="http://www.texasbookfestival.org/Fiction_Contest.php">Texas Book Festival's 11th Annual Fiction Writing Contest</a></u>Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-36117524634989638082012-06-16T12:39:00.005-04:002012-06-16T12:56:03.424-04:00Summer Solstice Contest<b>Genre:</b> <u><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slipstream_(genre)">Slipstream</a></u> fiction<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Maximum 2500 words. Limited to 1 entry per person. All entrants must be members of <u><a href="http://www.scribophile.com/">Scribophile</a></u> and allow their work to be visible to the public. Winners will be paid via Paypal and therefore must have a Paypal account.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> June 30, 2012<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> 1st Prize is $50; 2nd Prize is $25.<br /><br /><b>Entry Fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> Scribophile's <u><a href="http://www.scribophile.com/contests/summer-solstice-contest/">Summer Solstice Contest</a></u>Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-78754557220963660482012-05-22T12:37:00.004-04:002012-05-22T13:34:01.869-04:00JuNoWriMo and BuNoWriMoEvery year, many writers participate in <u><a href="http://www.nanowrimo.org/">National Novel Writing Month</a></u> (NaNoWriMo), which is held in November. Others would participate if it were scheduled for a different month. If setting aside the month of November to write a novel isn't feasible for you, consider <u><a href="http://junowrimo.com/">JuNoWriMo</a></u>.<br /><br />JuNoWriMo stands for June Novel Writing Month. For many people, June works better than November.<br /><br />Participants in JuNoWriMo don't have to write a novel; other works are acceptable. The goal is to write 50,000 words in June.<br /><br />Remember that this is your first draft, which means you shouldn't expect to perfect your manuscript during the challenge. The idea is to get it all down on paper--or computer--so that you actually have something to work with when you're ready to start revising.<br /><br /><u><a href="http://waterytart23.blogspot.com/2012/05/are-you-ready.html">BuNoWriMo</a></u> (Burrow Novel Writing Month) is another option. Also held in June, BuNoWriMo has the same goal of 50,000 words. Participants are required to join the BuNoWriMo group at Facebook.<br /><br />Many people find that June works out better for them than November. If setting aside November to write a novel is inconvenient or even impossible for you, just remember that there are at least two other options. Of course, it's also possible to write on your own schedule, but joining other writers who make a firm commitment to achieve their goals is a great incentive.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-88344915551632726202011-10-15T17:49:00.005-04:002011-10-15T18:12:07.446-04:00Halloween ArticlesI recently wrote several Halloween articles. I kept getting sidetracked while doing the research, because I was finding a lot of fun activities and information.<br /><br /><u><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/9036123/musicthemed_retro_halloween_costumes.html">Music-Themed Retro Halloween Costumes for Couples</a></u> was fun to research. I started out wanting to write about couples costumes with a music theme and then ended up making them all retro.<br /><br /><u><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/9032203/8_halloween_supersites.html">8 Halloween Supersites</a></u> is about the sites that go beyond the norm to provide what you need to make Halloween special.<br /><br /><u><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8378145/fun_online_halloween_activities.html">Fun Online Halloween Activities</a></u> will help get you in the Halloween spirit with games, puzzles, and more.<br /><br />If you're throwing a Halloween party, check <u><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8278193/halloween_parties_13_websites_to_help.html">Halloween Parties: 13 Websites to Help Set the Tone</a></u>.<br /><br />Before you start decorating, consider reading <u><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8273871/halloween_decorations_13_great_websites.html">Halloween Decorations: 13 Great Websites to Help You Decorate</a></u> for some terrific ideas.<br /><br />Ever wondered which actors have played Dracula on TV? <u><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8322975/13_tv_draculas.html">13 TV Draculas</a></u> will answer your question.<br /><br /><u><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/6107704/hollywood_vampires_and_werewolves_actors.html">Hollywood Vampires and Werewolves: Actors Who Have Played Both </a></u> is an older article but still relevant at this time of year.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-66010844179563806192011-09-15T14:45:00.004-04:002011-09-15T15:00:17.870-04:00Tapestry of Bronze Ode to Olympians<b>Genre:</b> Ode<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Must be about Artemis/Diana, the Goddess of the Hunt. Ode must be no longer than 30 lines, submitted by e-mail. Entrants should include their real name as well as a pen name if applicable. Adults must indicate that they're adults; minors need to include their birth month and year. Anyone under 13 must also have permission from a parent or guardian. Only one entry per person.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> November 30, 2011<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> $50 to the winner in each age group<br /><br /><b>Entry Fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> <u><a href="http://www.tapestryofbronze.com/OdeForm.html">Tapestry of Bronze Ode to Olympians</a></u>Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-44335724232984604542011-07-28T14:18:00.004-04:002011-07-28T14:43:33.237-04:00Amy Foundation Writing Awards<b>Genre:</b> Article<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Must have been published during the current calendar year in a mainstream, non-religious publication either online or in print. Must contain at least one passage of Scripture. Entries must be sent by USPS; e-mailed entries will not be accepted.<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> First prize is $10,000. Second prize is $5000, third prize is $4000, fourth prize is $3000, and fifth prize is $2000. In addition, ten Awards of Outstanding Merit will be given at $1000 each.<br /><br /><b>Entry Fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> <u><a href="http://www.amyfound.org/amy_writing_awards/amy_writing_awards.html">Amy Foundation Writing Awards<br /></a></u>Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-23629259199483541952011-07-22T16:16:00.007-04:002011-07-22T16:24:39.630-04:00Panera Bread's Asiago Bagel Breakfast Sandwich: ReviewIf you're looking for a tasty change of pace for breakfast, consider Panera Bread's asiago bagel breakfast sandwich. The asiago bagel adds a different flavor that makes it stand out from a run-of-the-mill breakfast sandwich. <u><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8255017/review_of_panera_breads_asiago_bagel.html">My review</a></u> provides details about this menu item's presentation, taste, and nutrition.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-49193740415197361642011-07-21T15:16:00.004-04:002011-07-21T15:32:19.415-04:00Our Green Tomorrow<b>Genre:</b> Essay<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Must be about how the environment affects your life. Entries are accepted from students in grades 6 through 12 who live in the United States. Maximum 1500 words.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> October 31, 2011<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> $500<br /><br /><b>Entry Fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> <u><a href="http://www.ourgreentomorrow.org/">Our Green Tomorrow</a></u><br /><br />Artwork is also accepted in a separate category, with the prize again being $500.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-52724117984349552072011-07-21T14:56:00.005-04:002011-07-21T15:11:47.435-04:00International Contest of Mountaineering Literature and Photography<b>Genre:</b> Stories about the mountains and/or mountaineers.<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Must be original, unpublished stories written in English or Spanish by a writer at least 18 years old. The previous year's winner is not eligible.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> September 10, 2011<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> First prize is 500 Euros and inclusion of the story in a book. <br /><br /><b>Entry Fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> Go to <u><a href="http://www.cuentamontes.com/index1.html">International Contest of Mountaineering Literature and Photography</a></u>. The contest guidelines are provided in a <u><a href="http://www.cuentamontes.com/cuentamontes2011/bases%20cuentamontes%20ingles%20.pdf">PDF download</a></u>.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-81368898728273237852011-07-21T14:51:00.005-04:002011-07-21T14:56:14.324-04:00Writing ContestsWhen I started researching writing contests to post about here, I had no idea there were so many! I'll be concentrating on posting about those with no entry fee. If I see one with an incredibly good prize for a relatively low entry fee, I'll include it as well.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-60031863214751794862011-07-20T15:03:00.006-04:002011-07-20T15:59:30.132-04:00Textnovel Contest<b>Genre:</b> Story or novel<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Entrant must be at least 13 years old and reside in the United States, Canada, or another country where the contest is allowed by law. Submission must be written in English and have a minimum of 50,000 words.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> August 31, 2011<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> $1000 and possibility of representation<br /><br /><b>Entry fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> <u><a href="http://www.textnovel.com/contestrules.php">Textnovel Contest</a></u>Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-62427871446430878622011-07-20T14:50:00.004-04:002011-07-20T14:59:31.661-04:00Past Loves Day Story Contest<b>Genre:</b> True story<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Must be a true story about a past love, with a maximum of 700 words. No restriction on tone.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> August 17, 2011<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> First prize is $100. Second prize is $75. Third prize is $50.<br /><br /><b>Entry fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> <u><a href="http://www.ourpastloves.com/contest">Past Loves Day Story Contest</a></u>Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-83650237547278363832011-07-20T14:36:00.006-04:002011-07-20T14:49:55.480-04:00Snag Today Poetry Contest<b>Genre:</b> Poetry of any style or theme.<br /><br /><b>Restrictions:</b> Maximum 50 lines. Must be written in English. Previously published work is fine, as are simultaneous submissions. Author must own publication rights.<br /><br /><b>Deadline:</b> July 31, 2011<br /><br /><b>Prizes:</b> $30 for first prize. Second and third prizes are $5 each.<br /><br /><b>Entry fee:</b> None<br /><br /><b>Additional information:</b> <u><a href="http://snagtoday.com/dolph/blogs/entry/Snag-Today-Writing-Contest">Snag Today Poetry Contest</a></u>Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-49217444424303490302011-07-20T13:00:00.004-04:002011-07-20T13:12:47.451-04:00Changing FocusI recently took some time to think about the direction of Ellie's Writing Desk. Although I originally started this blog to promote my Associated Content articles, I realized that I wanted to do much more with it than that. I had a lot of ideas; the problem was figuring out which ones would work.<br /><br />I finally came up with a plan, and I think it works. I <i>hope</i> it works.<br /><br />1. Post writing prompts. I've already come up with some interesting ones, so be on the lookout for them. You'll be able to fulfill the prompts in the comments, on your own blog, or privately--or you can just ignore them. It's up to you. The idea is to get the creative juices flowing and just have fun.<br /><br />2. Find and post information about writing contests.<br /><br />3. Provide tips about writing and grammar.<br /><br />4. Continue to promote my own articles, but more regularly. It still won't be very often, since I don't write that many.<br /><br />5. Promote articles by other writers.<br /><br />6. Spotlight different writers, including occasionally branching out into some interviews.<br /><br />I haven't finalized a schedule, and that's probably not even possible. However, I do intend to update this blog much more often than in the past.<br /><br />I also started a new blog, <u><a href="http://elliesblankbook.blogspot.com/">Ellie's Blank Book</a></u>. It will be for most of the blog hops and blogging challenges, although any that are devoted to the act of writing will be here at Ellie's Writing Desk.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-85001830118750445922011-05-02T11:46:00.005-04:002011-05-02T12:05:49.550-04:00Wrapping Up the A-Z ChallengeThe <u><a href="http://tossingitout.blogspot.com/">A-Z blogging challenge</a></u> wrapped up over the weekend, and now it's time to reflect on how it went. When I first learned about the challenge, I had to stop and think about whether I could participate. Eventually, I signed up all five of my blogs. From the beginning, my intention was to spread the challenge over all of them, posting on anywhere from one to five for any given letter. I also made three rules for myself.<br /><br /><b>My Rules, Meant Just for Me</b><br /><br />1. Post at <u><a href="http://helpmichiganpets.blogspot.com/">Help Michigan Pets</a></u> for every letter.<br /><br />2. Write and post them on the day they're due. In other words, no writing ahead or doing a pre-scheduled post.<br /><br />3. Make-up posts are not allowed. If I miss a letter, I won't be going back and filling it in.<br /><br /><b>So, how did I do?</b><br /><br />I followed my rules. I even kicked off the challenge by posting at every blog. I did let myself brainstorm ahead of time, and I made a master list of potential topics. I also allowed myself to start researching animals a few days ahead of schedule.<br /><br />I had a bit of serendipity twice on my entertainment blog. The first instance of perfect timing occurred along with the bad news about ABC's cancellation of two soap operas, which gave me an <i>L</i> for Loss. Later, on <i>S</i> night, the next day's topic fell into my lap when I saw a new commercial advertising a web series based in my area. The title of that series begins with a <i>T</i>.<br /><br />The timing of this challenge was also serendipitous. I had been neglecting my blogs and wanted to start them up again. The neglect began (and lasted) mostly due to circumstances beyond my control, but as time went on, it became increasingly difficult to make myself get back to them. The challenge gave me the push I needed.<br /><br /><b>The Tally</b><br /><br />Since I already said that I followed my rules, you know that my pets blog got a new post for every letter. As for my other blogs, some received more new posts than others.<br /><br /><u><a href="http://helpmichiganpets.blogspot.com/">Help Michigan Pets</a></u>: 26 new posts<br /><u><a href="http://elliescouch.blogspot.com/">Ellie's Couch</a></u>: 17 new posts<br /><u><a href="http://diaryofanonperson.blogspot.com/">Diary of a Non-Person</a></u>: 12 new posts<br /><u><a href="http://elliesattic.blogspot.com/">Ellie's Attic</a></u>: 6 new posts<br /><u><a href="http://ellieswritingdesk.blogspot.com/">Ellie's Writing Desk</a></u>: 4 new posts<br /><br /><b>New Connections</b><br /><br />I've gained quite a few followers and started following even more blogs than ever. Not all of them were participating in the challenge; I found some of them on other participants' reading lists. Here are just a few of the interesting blogs I've been following, thanks to this challenge:<br /><br /><u><a href="http://contentforfoodies.blogspot.com/">Content for Foodies</a></u><br /><u><a href="http://flettleglag.blogspot.com/">Jeffrey Beesler's World of the Scribe</a></u><br /><u><a href="http://lafotograf%c3%adaefectistaabstracta.blogspot.com/">La fotografía efectista abstracta</a></u><br /><u><a href="http://langleywrites.com/">Langley Writes</a></u><br /><u><a href="http://literaryjamandtoast.blogspot.com/">My Literary Jam & Toast</a></u><br /><u><a href="http://365palabras.blogspot.com/">¡Palabras interesantes, raras, hermosas y divertidas!</a></u><br /><u><a href="http://www.pirateknitting.com/">Pirate Knitting</a></u><br /><u><a href="http://tossingitout.blogspot.com/">Tossing It Out</a></u><br /><br /><b>Plans</b><br /><br />As a result of the A-Z Challenge, I've determined to come up with a schedule and stick to it. I'm also thinking about the future of <i>this</i> blog. Originally, it was meant to promote some of my articles, and I have another one reserved for blogging about writing in general. Now I'm trying to come up with a better plan for each of them.<br /><br /><b>Wrapping It Up</b><br /><br />I'm glad I had the opportunity to get back to my blogs, especially my pets blog. If it helped even one pet find a forever home, it was well worth my time.<br /><br />I enjoyed participating in the A-Z Challenge, and I definitely accomplished what I set out to do. I would like to do this again in the future if time permits, but with fewer blogs and with the intention to post all 26 letters on each one.<br /><br />I'd like to thank the hosts for coming up with this challenge. Special thanks go to <u><a href="http://elizabethmueller.blogspot.com/">Elizabeth Mueller</a></u> for the cool badge she provided for us, as well as to <u><a href="http://astorybookworld.blogspot.com/">Deirdra Eden-Coppel</a></u> for the beautiful awards she gave my blogs.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-38220320406686078012011-05-01T14:13:00.005-04:002011-05-01T14:21:51.612-04:00Ordering Your Own Lab Tests OnlineI found out a few months ago that it's possible for people to order their own lab tests online. Although the law requires a doctor to actually do the requisition, consumers can go to one of several websites, place their order, and wait for it to be approved.<br /><br />This practice isn't legal everywhere, but most states do allow it. To get the specifics, check <u><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5985836/how_to_order_your_own_lab_tests_online.html">this article</a></u>. <br /><br />There are quite a few things to consider before taking such a step, so be sure to read the <u><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5986738/six_reasons_to_order_your_own_lab_tests.html">pros</a></u> and <u><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5986828/drawbacks_to_ordering_your_own_lab.html">cons</a></u> of ordering your own lab tests online.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-949380939701752338.post-23193802915251586892011-04-21T13:28:00.002-04:002011-04-21T13:31:13.795-04:00Road Food: Where to Eat in the Baltimore-Washington CorridorSome restaurants look great on the outside but don't have anything on the menu that you'd want to eat. Others don't look so great but have fantastic food. If you live in the area, you're more likely to know whether dining there is a good idea or not, but what if you're unfamiliar with the area?<br /><br />The Baltimore-Washington Corridor is a popular area for visitors, and there's certainly no shortage of places to eat. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, check out these <u><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/6072542/5_great_local_restaurants_in_the_baltimorewashington.html">five great local restaurants in the Baltimore-Washington Corridor</a></u>; they all have fantastic food at reasonable prices.Eliza Wynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073079028272611020noreply@blogger.com3