L.T. Marshall's Blog, page 5

How to make a simple travel/junk journal

Today, I am sharing with you a super simple tutorial on turning some card and Amazon brown paper into a sweet little travel journal. The perfect projects for beginners to junk journalling or journal making.

I think it’s such a beautiful print, and in the video, I used this pack here if you want to create the same one – https://www.creativefabrica.com/product/academia-junk-journal-digital-bundle/

If you make one, don’t forget to show me on social media by tagging my profile or using the hashtag #ltmarshall

How to make a simple trave/junk journal

Today, I am sharing with you a super simple tutorial on turning some card and Amazon brown paper into a sweet little travel journal. The perfect projects for beginners to junk journalling or journal making.

I think it’s such a beautiful print, and in the video, I used this pack here if you want to create the same one – https://www.creativefabrica.com/product/academia-junk-journal-digital-bundle/

If you make one, don’t forget to show me on social media by tagging my profile or using the hashtag #ltmarshall

Making Tarot Card pockets for Junk Journalling

This is just a quick and easy video on YouTube for my paper craft friends.

You can make these using any card stock; they do not need to be tarot cards. They would work with playing cards or regular cards.

If you make any, let me see, as I love to have your makes shared with me.

If you like downloadable prints for paper crafting, then check out my first ever digital journal pack. I turned Shroomie the Mushroom into a great print-off that you can create awesome things with. Take a look at what I made with him.

Get the pack here – https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/1668565620/junk-journal-ephemera-paper-tags-etc

Free Junk Journalling PDF – Vintage Grunge Tickets

I managed to follow a tutorial to make some tickets from the awesome SEVENPLAZA. If you have not watched her, check out the video below.

Following this great tutorial, I crafted a few strips of tickets that received amazing love from the journal community on Facebook. It was suggested that I scan them for use again, and I decided you guys could share them. So scroll below.

The crafted tickets look like this…. The PDF is below.

Vintage Grunge TicketsDownload

If you use them in a project then show them off to me. I love to see things like that. And share with whomever you see fit.

If you want more free printables, then have a nosy here – Paper-craft Print Outs

Awakening TV drama is here!!

Hey guys, so it is finally here….the access to the #Awakening short TV drama. #awakeningrejectedmate You will need to download either the app for Apple or the one for Android below.
For now, it’s on this app only. So far, it has already made it to number 2 in the most watched shows on there.

Sneak peek at Alora and Colton!!!

AppleAndroid

Juggling Words and Motherhood: A Tale of Being an Author and a Mum

The world of motherhood and the realm of being an author are two demanding, rewarding, and often chaotic domains that many women find themselves navigating simultaneously. Balancing the joys and challenges of raising children while pursuing a career in writing is a unique and empowering journey. In this article, we will explore the trials and triumphs of being an author and a mother, delving into the delicate balance, the lessons learned, and the creative inspirations that arise from this dual role.

The Balancing Act

As any author-mum will tell you, managing the roles of nurturing children and nurturing a writing career is an intricate juggling act. Authors often work on their craft with deep concentration, and finding uninterrupted time to write can be a daunting task with little ones in the picture. So how do they manage?

The Art of Scheduling: Successful author-mums are experts at creating a tight schedule that accommodates writing sessions, childcare, and household responsibilities. It may require early mornings, late nights, or even a dedicated block of time while children are at school or napping.Support Systems: Building a network of support is crucial. Partners, family, or even hired help can assist with childcare, enabling the author to focus on their writing.Flexibility: Adaptability is key. Author-mums learn to be flexible and embrace the ebb and flow of daily life, which can be unpredictable when children are involved.

The Inspiration of Motherhood

Motherhood can serve as a wellspring of inspiration for authors. The experiences, emotions, and insights that come with raising children can infuse their writing with depth and authenticity.

Understanding Human Nature: Parenthood exposes authors to a wide spectrum of human emotions and behaviors. This firsthand experience enriches their characters and narratives, making them more relatable and authentic.Time Management Skills: Being a mother hones an author’s time management skills. They learn to write efficiently and make the most of the time they have, often producing more focused and productive work.Themes of Identity and Growth: Motherhood often leads authors to explore themes of identity, growth, and change in their writing. The personal evolution that comes with raising children can be a powerful storytelling element.

Challenges and Triumphs

The journey of being an author and a mother is not without its fair share of challenges. But the rewards are equally remarkable.

Challenges:

Guilt and Self-Doubt: Many author-mums struggle with feelings of guilt when they prioritize their writing over their children or vice versa. Self-doubt can creep in, making it essential to remind themselves that pursuing their passion is a form of self-care.Energy Depletion: Juggling both roles can be physically and emotionally draining. Finding time to recharge and practice self-care is crucial.Unpredictability: Children can be unpredictable, and interruptions are par for the course. Author-mums must develop resilience and patience to cope with the uncertainty.

Triumphs:

Personal Growth: The journey of being an author and a mother fosters personal growth, resilience, and a deep sense of accomplishment.Role Models: Author-mums set an inspiring example for their children, demonstrating the value of pursuing one’s passions and dreams.Unique Perspective: Their dual role provides a unique perspective that can set their writing apart, creating more engaging and relatable narratives.

Conclusion

Being an author and a mother is a beautiful, challenging, and rewarding journey that many women embark on. It requires a delicate balance, a strong support system, and the ability to find inspiration in the everyday experiences of motherhood. While it can be challenging, the triumphs and personal growth that come from this dual role make it a journey worth embracing. Author-mums, through their dedication and creativity, prove that the love of writing and the love of family can coexist harmoniously, enriching their lives and the literary world in the process.

The Art of Writing on Rainy Days: Finding Inspiration in the Storm

Introduction

Rainy days have a way of casting a unique spell on our senses. The pitter-patter of raindrops against the windowpane, the soothing scent of wet earth, and the gentle melody of nature in motion—all combine to create an atmosphere that’s both cozy and contemplative. While some may find these days ideal for curling up with a good book or a hot cup of tea, writers often discover a wealth of inspiration in the midst of a rainy day. In this article, we’ll explore how rainy days can be the perfect backdrop for writing and how to harness the creativity that comes with the rain.

Embrace the Atmosphere

Rainy days often bring a sense of calm and introspection. As a writer, it’s essential to embrace this atmosphere. Find a comfortable spot near a window, where you can watch the rain fall and listen to its rhythm. Allow yourself to become one with the moment, taking in the sights and sounds. This mindful observation can serve as a powerful starting point for your writing, helping you connect with your inner thoughts and emotions.

Draw from the Elements

Rain, wind, thunder, and lightning—these natural elements can serve as metaphors or symbols in your writing. Rain can represent cleansing or renewal, while thunder may symbolize power or revelation. The key is to let your imagination run wild and find creative ways to incorporate these elements into your prose or poetry. Use the rain as a backdrop for your story, allowing it to influence the mood and tone of your writing.

Create Atmosphere in Your Writing

Rainy days offer an opportunity to enhance the atmosphere of your writing. Describe the scenes in your story with vivid imagery that captures the essence of a rainy day. Use sensory details to paint a picture for your readers, allowing them to feel the dampness in the air, hear the raindrops, and smell the earthy scent of rain-soaked soil. By immersing your readers in this sensory experience, you can transport them to a world that mirrors the rainy day outside.

Explore Emotional Depth

Rainy days often evoke a range of emotions, from introspection and melancholy to nostalgia and romance. Use these emotions to your advantage in your writing. Explore the inner thoughts and feelings of your characters, drawing on the mood of the rainy day to add depth and authenticity to their experiences. Whether it’s a character finding solace in the rain or grappling with a sense of longing, rainy days can be a powerful backdrop for emotional storytelling.

Find Inspiration in Rainy-Day Activities

Sometimes, the best writing inspiration comes from everyday activities. Take a walk in the rain, listen to the conversations of people huddled under awnings, or visit a cozy cafe and observe the interactions of patrons. These experiences can provide valuable insights and ideas for your writing. Pay attention to the small details and human interactions that are unique to rainy days, and use them to infuse authenticity into your work.

Conclusion

Rainy days offer a rich tapestry of inspiration for writers. The atmosphere, natural elements, and emotional nuances that come with rainy weather can be harnessed to create evocative and compelling writing. So, the next time you find yourself staring out at the raindrops cascading down your window, grab your pen and paper or fire up your computer. Let the rain be your muse, and allow its beauty and mystery to flow through your words. With the right approach, you can turn a rainy day into a canvas for your creativity, producing writing that’s as refreshing and invigorating as a summer storm.

How to Promote a Book

Promoting a book can be a challenging but crucial part of the publishing process. Whether you’re a traditionally published author or self-published, effective book promotion is essential for reaching your target audience and generating sales. Here are some strategies to promote a book:

Build a Strong Online Presence:Create a professional author website with information about your book, author bio, and contact details.Establish active social media profiles on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to connect with potential readers.Leverage Social Media:Share engaging content related to your book’s themes, writing process, and updates about its release.Interact with your followers, respond to comments, and participate in relevant conversations within your niche.Email Marketing:Build and maintain an email list of interested readers. Send regular newsletters with updates, exclusive content, and promotions.Consider offering a free sample or bonus content to incentivize people to join your email list.Book Launch Event:Plan a virtual or in-person book launch event to generate buzz and excitement. Invite friends, family, and fans.Use the event to read excerpts, answer questions, and sign copies for attendees.Reviews and Advance Reader Copies (ARCs):Send advance copies of your book to reviewers, bloggers, and influencers in your genre.Encourage readers to leave reviews on platforms like Amazon, Goodreads, and social media.Book Trailers and Teasers:Create a book trailer or teaser video to share on social media and your website.Visual content can capture the attention of potential readers and create interest in your book.Guest Blogging and Interviews:Write guest posts for relevant blogs or websites and include links to your book and author website.Participate in author interviews on podcasts, blogs, or YouTube channels.Book Clubs and Reading Groups:Connect with book clubs and reading groups in your niche or genre.Offer to participate in discussions or provide exclusive content for their members.Press Releases and Media Outreach:Write a press release about your book launch and send it to local newspapers, magazines, and online publications.Reach out to journalists, book bloggers, and influencers who may be interested in covering your book.Book Discounts and Promotions:Offer limited-time discounts or promotions, especially during the book launch period.Use platforms like BookBub or Goodreads Deals to promote your book to a wider audience.Engage with Book Communities:Join online book communities, forums, and social media groups relevant to your genre.Participate in discussions, share your expertise, and subtly promote your book when appropriate.Networking:Attend book fairs, literary festivals, and author conferences to network with other authors, publishers, and potential readers.Advertising:Consider running targeted ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Amazon, or BookBub to reach a larger audience.Local Bookstores and Libraries:Approach local bookstores and libraries for book signings, readings, or displays.Continued Engagement:Stay engaged with your readers even after the initial launch. Share updates on future projects, behind-the-scenes insights, and interact with your audience.

Remember that book promotion is an ongoing effort, and results may not be immediate. Building a loyal readership and a successful book promotion strategy takes time and persistence. Adapt your approach based on what works best for your specific audience and genre.

How to Plan a Book

Planning a book is an essential step in the writing process. Whether you’re writing fiction, non-fiction, or any other genre, a well-thought-out plan can make the writing process smoother and more organized. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plan a book:

Define Your Purpose and Audience:Start by clarifying the purpose of your book. Why are you writing it? What message or story do you want to convey?Identify your target audience. Who are you writing for? Understanding your readers’ needs and interests will help shape your book’s content and style.Choose a Genre and Topic:Decide on the genre and category of your book. Are you writing fiction, non-fiction, a memoir, self-help, fantasy, mystery, etc.?Choose a specific topic or theme that you’re passionate about and knowledgeable in.Set Clear Goals:Establish clear, achievable goals for your book. This includes setting a word count target, a timeline, and any other relevant objectives.Research:Conduct research if your book requires it. This may involve reading books, articles, or conducting interviews to gather information or inspiration.Create an Outline:Develop a detailed outline of your book’s structure. This can be a chapter-by-chapter breakdown or a more general roadmap.Organize your thoughts and main ideas in a logical order.Character and Plot Development (Fiction):If you’re writing fiction, spend time developing your characters. Create character profiles, including their backgrounds, motivations, and arcs.Outline the plot, including key events, conflicts, and the story’s climax.Chapter Summaries:Write brief summaries for each chapter or section of your book. This helps you maintain focus and keep the narrative on track.Create a Writing Schedule:Set aside dedicated time for writing. Consistency is key to completing a book.Determine how many words or pages you aim to write each day or week.Writing Tools:Choose the writing tools and software that work best for you. Many authors prefer word processors like Microsoft Word, Scrivener, or Google Docs.Start Writing:Begin writing your book based on your outline and chapter summaries. Don’t worry about perfection in the first draft; the goal is to get your ideas on paper.Seek Feedback:Share your work-in-progress with beta readers or writing groups for feedback. This can help you identify areas that need improvement.Revise and Edit:After completing the first draft, take a break before revising. Review your manuscript for clarity, consistency, and grammar.Consider hiring a professional editor for a comprehensive edit.Proofreading:Proofread your manuscript carefully for typos, spelling errors, and formatting issues.Cover Design and Formatting:If you’re self-publishing, design a compelling book cover and format the interior layout.Publishing and Promotion:Decide whether you’ll pursue traditional publishing or self-publishing. Research the best approach for your goals.Develop a marketing plan to promote your book, including online and offline strategies.Launch Your Book:Release your book to your target audience, and engage with readers through social media, book signings, and other promotional efforts.

Remember that planning is a dynamic process, and your plan may evolve as you write and revise your book. Be open to making adjustments based on your creative process and feedback. Writing a book is a significant undertaking, but with a well-structured plan, dedication, and perseverance, you can turn your idea into a reality.

How to Publish a Book

Publishing a book involves several steps, whether you’re pursuing traditional publishing or self-publishing. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Write and Edit Your Manuscript:

Start by writing your book and revising it until it’s in its best possible form. Consider seeking feedback from beta readers or hiring a professional editor.

2. Prepare a Book Proposal (for Traditional Publishing):

If you’re pursuing traditional publishing, you’ll need to prepare a book proposal. This typically includes a synopsis of your book, an author bio, a market analysis, and a sample of your manuscript.

3. Research Publishers or Literary Agents (for Traditional Publishing):

Identify publishers or literary agents that specialize in your genre. Look for submission guidelines on their websites and follow them carefully.

4. Query Agents or Submit to Publishers (for Traditional Publishing):

Write query letters to literary agents or submit your manuscript directly to publishers according to their submission guidelines.

5. Secure a Literary Agent (for Traditional Publishing):

If an agent is interested in your work, they may offer representation. They will help you negotiate contracts with publishers.

6. Self-Publishing Option:

If you choose to self-publish, you’ll have more control over the process. You can prepare your manuscript for publication and move directly to the next steps.

7. Prepare Your Manuscript for Publishing:

Regardless of the publishing route, you need to format your manuscript for publication. This includes typesetting, designing a cover, and formatting the interior layout.

8. ISBN and Copyright:

Obtain an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) for your book. Also, consider registering your copyright to protect your intellectual property.

9. Publish Your Book:

For traditional publishing, the publisher will handle this step. If you’re self-publishing, you can use platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), IngramSpark, or other self-publishing services to publish your book in print and ebook formats.

10. Marketing and Promotion:

Promote your book through various channels, including social media, author website, book signings, and online advertising. Building a strong online presence is crucial.

11. Distribution:

Ensure your book is available through major retailers, both online and in physical bookstores. This may require working with a distributor or using platforms like Amazon.

12. Monitor Sales and Reviews:

Keep track of your book’s sales and reviews. Use this feedback to improve future writing and marketing efforts.

13. Consider Sequels or Follow-up Works:

If your book is part of a series or you have other ideas, consider writing and publishing more books to build your author brand.

Remember that publishing a book can be a challenging and time-consuming process. Be prepared for rejection if you’re pursuing traditional publishing, and be ready to invest time and effort into marketing and promoting your work if you choose to self-publish. Networking within the writing and publishing community can also be invaluable throughout this journey.