Yup, it’s November! If you’re like me, you're still trying to wrap your head around that fact. 🤯 Here’s my game plan for today’s newsletter. Bits and Bobs aka Updates, followed by what I’m thankful for.
Bits & Bobs
Writing Front
I’ve cracked the plot for my new book. Or at least I have a path to meander down. For me, this is huge. HUGE, I tell ya. I don’t care for being a pantser. The rewrites are dreadful! Now, I can get to work on the writing of the words part, and I know where I’m going. I’m pretty happy about that.
The book I have “ready” is going through another read-through for clean up. Next year, I plan to get a line editor with the goal to publish in the fall. That means I’ll start hyping it soon. I’ll also start putting together a marketing plan. TIPS AND ADVICE WELCOME! Send me all ya got.
Self-pubbers, how/where do you give away your arcs? I used StoryOrigin before, but I’m considering BookFunnel. I’d love to hear about your experiences.
Web Hosting Front
I mentioned a couple of months ago I was looking for a new place to host my website. Right now, I’m on a self-hosted WordPress site. I’ve grown tired of being my own administrator. The hunt is proving difficult.
I considered platforms like Squarespace, which seem like an ideal solution at first glance. However, there's a significant drawback: those platforms do not support backing up your site. In the event your site gets hosed, you have to rely on the host having backed up your site. If you decide to move to a new host, ya can’t get your work. This is unacceptable. — Even Substack allows you to export all your data!
I’ve been looking at WordPress.com. Ouch, it’s nothing like the self-hosted interface. I will have to spend a lot more time looking it over.
Art Front
This time of year, I do less personal art as my art and design business is in full swing. But I keep a sketchbook near me. Lately, I've been immersing myself in all things zombie.
But … if you're looking for fun gifts, check out my shops with shirts and mugs.
RedBubble | TeePublic | Zazzle | Threadless
Let’s Be Thankful
While we are all grateful for the big-ticket items (health, etc.), it's important to remember the little things that bring us joy.
So, I’m thankful for…
Ladybugs — The sight of countless ladybugs in my garden was enchanting, adding a touch of magic to end of summer. One day, they were just there, everywhere. Did you know a group of ladybugs is called a loveliness? I couldn’t agree more!
Halloween Baking Championship — brain cakes that ooze, coffin cookies, mummy scream puff — the food is so fun and spooky.
Cauldron Hot Cocoa Mug — My new mug can hold any beverage, but a dallop of cold whipped cream on hot chocolate makes steam come out of my cauldron. Delightful.
Lemon Curd on Toast — I love lemon! But finding a good lemon curd is tricky. I finally found one! I tried it on toast for this first time this month. It’s delicious, and it makes me happy.
Thick Fuzzy Socks — need I say more?
Tell me something little you are thankful for.
I'm so glad you put lady bugs at the top of your grateful list. They are precious and the very best garden visitors! Pantsers are so brave, and I like to include myself in that club.