Edie Melson's Blog, page 370
August 3, 2015
Social Media Basics for Writers—Tips for Composing Effective Social Media Updates
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
Twitter, as many of you already know, is my Social Media Sweet Spot—my easy button, if you will. It’s my go-to place to send and receive information. Because of that, I compose all my social media updates from a Twitter mindset. So no matter where I'm sending the update, I compose it with Twitter in mind.
I know that Twitter is NOT the sweet spot for many of you reading this blog.
Part of that is because you’re not really sure what constitutes a good tweet. You’ve heard just enough about hashtags and twitter etiquette to make you cringe at the thought of composing your own tweet. So rather than failing, you either stick to retweeting what others share or just pass on the whole thing.
Today, I’m going to break it down for you and share my tips to composing the (almost) perfect tweet every time.Twitter BasicsI have four types of updates I share on Twitter (and all social media).An insightful quote or thought.A question to get the conversation started or make us think.Something funny, because let’s face it, we all need to laugh.A link to information I find valuable and think will enrich your life.
But What IS a Perfect Tweet?The definition can vary widely, depending on who you ask. But since you’re reading my post, I’m going to give you my definition.
A perfect tweet makes someone’s life a little bit better, and does so in a way that’s easy to share with others.
Components of a Perfect TweetThere are certain things that good tweets have. Not every tweet will have every one of these, but here are the list of things that make a tweet good.An attention grabbing headline—this is the main focus of your tweet and can be a statement or a question. It makes others what to learn more, take action, join the conversation and/or share what they’ve read.A clear attribution—I’m a writer, so authorship is important to me. If someone says something brilliant, I really want them to get the credit. So when possible, I include the person’s name and/or twitter handle. (A twitter handle is your Twitter user name. My Twitter handle is @EdieMelson).Hashtags—stop groaning! You knew I was going to include this one. A hashtag is a number sign (#) that’s put in front of a group of letters and/or numbers. This makes that particular topic searchable anywhere within the Twitter universe. There is a specific number of hashtags that’s ideal. For the highest number of shares, use two. One is good, two is best, three or more is not so good.A link—if you’re referencing something you’ve found online, you’ll want to include the URL. Be sure to shorten the link. Hootsuite will do it for you, but if you don’t use Hootsuite or a scheduling program, I recommend www.bitly.com. If you’re just posting a question or a quote, there’s not always a reason to include a link.
Format Your TweetThere is a general order in the way you arrange the components of your tweet.
Do NOTstart your tweet off with an @ sign (Like @EdieMelson) unless you are replying to something I said. A reply tweet will only be seen by those who follow BOTH you and the person you’re replying to.
Hashtags can be used at the beginning, middle or end or your tweet. But the best way to use them is organically, within the body of the tweet. Second would be toward the end. Lastly, at the beginning.
Finally, we all know Twitter limits tweets to 140 characters. But I do NOT recommend you use all 140 characters. For one, if someone retweets your update, something will get lopped off the end of the tweet because the retweeters info will be added to the beginning of the tweet.
So ideally, keep your tweet to under 120 characters. But remember, this is just a guideline, not a hard and fast rule!
Here's the order I tend to like best:HeadlineAttributionLinkHashtags
Example and ExplanationHere is a tweet I composed for this post:
Tips for Composing Effective #SocialMedia Updates – via @EdieMelson #writing http://bit.ly/1LZyiMe
Breaking it Down: Tips for Composing Effective Social Media Updates—is my headline, my attention grabber.
#SocialMedia and #Writing—are the two hashtags I’ve chosen to use. They reflect the focus of the tweet and are popular hashtags.
@EdieMelson—is my attribution. I used it in this tweet because I’m composing the tweet for ClickToTweet, which means someone else will be sending the tweet out. If I was just sending this out, I would NOT use @EdieMelson because the tweet would originate with my Twitter account and everyone already knows it’s me.
http://bit.ly/1LZyiMe—is my shortened URL or Link. This URL will take the person clicking on it directly to this post.
Common Questions
1. What if the blog post I'm referencing is a guest post, which attribution do I use - the author of the post or the owner of the blog?
If possible, it's good to use both attributions. Here's how I would handle that:
Is Your Manuscript Written to Death? - via @ VaughnRoycroft on @ WriterUnboxed owl.li/xHH8x #amwriting
2. What if the person I'm referencing doesn't have a Twitter handle or I don't have time to research it? People who don't include their social media info is a big pet peeve of mine. If it's not easy to find, or you can't find it, just use the person's name.
3. What if I don't have room for everything? This happens frequently with Twitter. After all, we only have 140 characters. If I don't have room to include the author of the post and the blog name, I prioritize and use the author's name. If I don't have room to use two hashtags, I only use one. The key is to stay flexible and don't overthink this.
4. Do I have to always use two hashtags? No, use the hashtags that make sense and what you have room for.
Now it's your turn. What questions do you have about composing updates? Do you have format you like to use? Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESTips for Composing Effective #SocialMedia Updates – via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Perfect #SocialMedia updates add value in a way that’s easy to share - tips from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Twitter, as many of you already know, is my Social Media Sweet Spot—my easy button, if you will. It’s my go-to place to send and receive information. Because of that, I compose all my social media updates from a Twitter mindset. So no matter where I'm sending the update, I compose it with Twitter in mind.I know that Twitter is NOT the sweet spot for many of you reading this blog.
Part of that is because you’re not really sure what constitutes a good tweet. You’ve heard just enough about hashtags and twitter etiquette to make you cringe at the thought of composing your own tweet. So rather than failing, you either stick to retweeting what others share or just pass on the whole thing.
Today, I’m going to break it down for you and share my tips to composing the (almost) perfect tweet every time.Twitter BasicsI have four types of updates I share on Twitter (and all social media).An insightful quote or thought.A question to get the conversation started or make us think.Something funny, because let’s face it, we all need to laugh.A link to information I find valuable and think will enrich your life.
But What IS a Perfect Tweet?The definition can vary widely, depending on who you ask. But since you’re reading my post, I’m going to give you my definition.A perfect tweet makes someone’s life a little bit better, and does so in a way that’s easy to share with others.
Components of a Perfect TweetThere are certain things that good tweets have. Not every tweet will have every one of these, but here are the list of things that make a tweet good.An attention grabbing headline—this is the main focus of your tweet and can be a statement or a question. It makes others what to learn more, take action, join the conversation and/or share what they’ve read.A clear attribution—I’m a writer, so authorship is important to me. If someone says something brilliant, I really want them to get the credit. So when possible, I include the person’s name and/or twitter handle. (A twitter handle is your Twitter user name. My Twitter handle is @EdieMelson).Hashtags—stop groaning! You knew I was going to include this one. A hashtag is a number sign (#) that’s put in front of a group of letters and/or numbers. This makes that particular topic searchable anywhere within the Twitter universe. There is a specific number of hashtags that’s ideal. For the highest number of shares, use two. One is good, two is best, three or more is not so good.A link—if you’re referencing something you’ve found online, you’ll want to include the URL. Be sure to shorten the link. Hootsuite will do it for you, but if you don’t use Hootsuite or a scheduling program, I recommend www.bitly.com. If you’re just posting a question or a quote, there’s not always a reason to include a link.
Format Your TweetThere is a general order in the way you arrange the components of your tweet.Do NOTstart your tweet off with an @ sign (Like @EdieMelson) unless you are replying to something I said. A reply tweet will only be seen by those who follow BOTH you and the person you’re replying to.
Hashtags can be used at the beginning, middle or end or your tweet. But the best way to use them is organically, within the body of the tweet. Second would be toward the end. Lastly, at the beginning.
Finally, we all know Twitter limits tweets to 140 characters. But I do NOT recommend you use all 140 characters. For one, if someone retweets your update, something will get lopped off the end of the tweet because the retweeters info will be added to the beginning of the tweet.
So ideally, keep your tweet to under 120 characters. But remember, this is just a guideline, not a hard and fast rule!
Here's the order I tend to like best:HeadlineAttributionLinkHashtags
Example and ExplanationHere is a tweet I composed for this post:
Tips for Composing Effective #SocialMedia Updates – via @EdieMelson #writing http://bit.ly/1LZyiMe
Breaking it Down: Tips for Composing Effective Social Media Updates—is my headline, my attention grabber.
#SocialMedia and #Writing—are the two hashtags I’ve chosen to use. They reflect the focus of the tweet and are popular hashtags.
@EdieMelson—is my attribution. I used it in this tweet because I’m composing the tweet for ClickToTweet, which means someone else will be sending the tweet out. If I was just sending this out, I would NOT use @EdieMelson because the tweet would originate with my Twitter account and everyone already knows it’s me.
http://bit.ly/1LZyiMe—is my shortened URL or Link. This URL will take the person clicking on it directly to this post.
Common Questions
1. What if the blog post I'm referencing is a guest post, which attribution do I use - the author of the post or the owner of the blog?
If possible, it's good to use both attributions. Here's how I would handle that:Is Your Manuscript Written to Death? - via @ VaughnRoycroft on @ WriterUnboxed owl.li/xHH8x #amwriting
2. What if the person I'm referencing doesn't have a Twitter handle or I don't have time to research it? People who don't include their social media info is a big pet peeve of mine. If it's not easy to find, or you can't find it, just use the person's name.
3. What if I don't have room for everything? This happens frequently with Twitter. After all, we only have 140 characters. If I don't have room to include the author of the post and the blog name, I prioritize and use the author's name. If I don't have room to use two hashtags, I only use one. The key is to stay flexible and don't overthink this.
4. Do I have to always use two hashtags? No, use the hashtags that make sense and what you have room for.
Now it's your turn. What questions do you have about composing updates? Do you have format you like to use? Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESTips for Composing Effective #SocialMedia Updates – via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Perfect #SocialMedia updates add value in a way that’s easy to share - tips from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
August 2, 2015
A Foundation of Faith, Paved with Prayer
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
I’ve come to realize that the seeds of faith begin their journey to the light, in the dark.
Raising kids is an amazing privilege. It’s also journey filled with unimaginable highs and devastating lows. I wouldn’t trade my experiences with anyone, but I don’t know how I’d have made it this far without a foundation of faith, paved with prayer.I didn’t come into this parenting journey equipped with a strong prayer life. For those who’ve known me for years, the idea of me writing a book of prayers seems odd. I was the one who shifted uncomfortably in my chair when the topic of prayer came up, and the one who did everything possible to avoid praying in public.
Somewhere along my life’s path, I’d come to the conclusion that only spiritual people could pray prayers worth hearing. Those would be prayers worth hearing in regard to other people and especially in regard to God.
Then I became a mom . . . of three active boys. As their imaginations grew with ways to get into mischief, so did my fear for their safety and well-being. (Oh, the stories I could tell!)
I did my best to keep them safe and keep my worry in check. But I learned early on that MY best fell way short of what was needed. So I began to pray. I wasn’t comfortable with my words, though. When I prayed it felt inadequate. So I searched for books on prayer and books of prayers. I found the books on prayer, but couldn’t find what I was looking for when it came to books of prayers.
All I wanted was a starting point—a way to release the flood of words stuck in the depths of my worried heart. I couldn’t find anything out there. So out of desperation and as a last resort, I began to write my own prayers.
I learned to take my overwhelming fear to the only One who could protect him. And I left my sons in God’s hands. The prayers weren’t pretty. Often times they weren’t even words. They truly were the groanings we read about it Romans 8:26-27.
I didn’t realize it at the time, but I was like a seed, planted deep in the ground. I was surrounded by darkness, by rough, rocky soil, pressing in on all sides threatening to crush the life from me. But through that incredible pressure, the shell of my own strength fell away, and I slowly began to push toward the light that I knew lay just beyond the darkness.
And my course of last resort became my strength, It became the first place I turned. Instead of praying in desperation, I began to pray in confidence. When the fears threatened to overwhelm me, I learned to lean into God, instead of turning in on myself.
And today I’m excited to announce that God is taking those prayers and turning them into a book. I’ve just signed a contract with Worthy Inspired for my second book of prayers, this one for parents.
While My Child is Away
.
As parents, we love our children and want to protect them. Unfortunately, we can’t always be there physically when they need us. But God can, and so can our prayers. Our prayers can surround our kids, no matter where they are. So get ready to hit your knees and go deep as we let God’s power and peace fuel our prayers
TWEETABLES
As parents we need a foundation of #faith, paved with #prayer - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Seeds of #faith begin their journey to the light, in the dark - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
I’ve come to realize that the seeds of faith begin their journey to the light, in the dark. Raising kids is an amazing privilege. It’s also journey filled with unimaginable highs and devastating lows. I wouldn’t trade my experiences with anyone, but I don’t know how I’d have made it this far without a foundation of faith, paved with prayer.I didn’t come into this parenting journey equipped with a strong prayer life. For those who’ve known me for years, the idea of me writing a book of prayers seems odd. I was the one who shifted uncomfortably in my chair when the topic of prayer came up, and the one who did everything possible to avoid praying in public.
Somewhere along my life’s path, I’d come to the conclusion that only spiritual people could pray prayers worth hearing. Those would be prayers worth hearing in regard to other people and especially in regard to God.
Then I became a mom . . . of three active boys. As their imaginations grew with ways to get into mischief, so did my fear for their safety and well-being. (Oh, the stories I could tell!)I did my best to keep them safe and keep my worry in check. But I learned early on that MY best fell way short of what was needed. So I began to pray. I wasn’t comfortable with my words, though. When I prayed it felt inadequate. So I searched for books on prayer and books of prayers. I found the books on prayer, but couldn’t find what I was looking for when it came to books of prayers.
All I wanted was a starting point—a way to release the flood of words stuck in the depths of my worried heart. I couldn’t find anything out there. So out of desperation and as a last resort, I began to write my own prayers.I learned to take my overwhelming fear to the only One who could protect him. And I left my sons in God’s hands. The prayers weren’t pretty. Often times they weren’t even words. They truly were the groanings we read about it Romans 8:26-27.
I didn’t realize it at the time, but I was like a seed, planted deep in the ground. I was surrounded by darkness, by rough, rocky soil, pressing in on all sides threatening to crush the life from me. But through that incredible pressure, the shell of my own strength fell away, and I slowly began to push toward the light that I knew lay just beyond the darkness.
And my course of last resort became my strength, It became the first place I turned. Instead of praying in desperation, I began to pray in confidence. When the fears threatened to overwhelm me, I learned to lean into God, instead of turning in on myself.
And today I’m excited to announce that God is taking those prayers and turning them into a book. I’ve just signed a contract with Worthy Inspired for my second book of prayers, this one for parents.
While My Child is Away
. As parents, we love our children and want to protect them. Unfortunately, we can’t always be there physically when they need us. But God can, and so can our prayers. Our prayers can surround our kids, no matter where they are. So get ready to hit your knees and go deep as we let God’s power and peace fuel our prayers
TWEETABLES
As parents we need a foundation of #faith, paved with #prayer - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Seeds of #faith begin their journey to the light, in the dark - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
August 1, 2015
Poetry of the Earth
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
The Poetry of the Earth is Never Dead. -John KeatsI invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
The Poetry of the Earth is Never Dead. -John KeatsI invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
July 31, 2015
Stay Safe Online While Building Your Platform
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
As writers we know the importance of developing an online presence, but is there such a thing as putting too much information out there?
How do we know when we've gone beyond platform building into an area that puts us and our families at risk?
The result of too much information online can range from the irritating to the dangerous.
But it is possible to be smart and still have an online presence that will garner you the right kind of reader notice.
Here are some tips to help you stay out of trouble:
Have boundaries firmly established in your own mind—BEFORE something happens. That way, when someone get too familiar, you’ll be ready to do more than just feel vaguely uncomfortable. So often I talk to writers who have a cyber-stalker and they’re not even certain whether they should be concerned or not.Trust your instincts. I cannot emphasize this one strongly enough. If someone makes you uncomfortable, act on your feelings.Don’t friend/follow/or otherwise engage someone who isn’t willing to post a picture and/or give out reasonable information.Don’t use an social media networks and/or settings where you check in at places. There is no good reason or someone to know where you are generally. If you’re at a conference or a big event, you can let people know you’re there if you choose, but don’t leave your safety to a computer program.Turn OFF your location settings for your phone, digital camera, ereader and tablet. Otherwise, any picture you take with those devices could have an imbedded code that gives the latitude and longitude of where the picture was taken. This is especially true if you post pictures of children (your own or even grandkids). Don’t make it easy for a predator to map out your location.
What should you do when something makes you uncomfortable?
The biggest thing is do NOT be tempted to be polite when you’re worried. This is similar to following your instincts in that we often push down our uncomfortable feelings for the sake of being polite. If someone is tweeting to you, sending you repeated Facebook messages, or contacting you in any way that makes you uncomfortable, don’t ignore your feelings.
First, confront the person making you uncomfortable and request they respect your boundaries.If they don’t adhere to your guidelines, immediately block them from the social media networks where they are contacting you.Finally, report them to the social media network(s) where the infraction occurred.
This isn’t something you should fool around with, but it’s also something you shouldn’t be worried about. Taking these steps will keep you safe and give you the boundaries you need to stay safe online.
What steps do you take to stay safe? Have you ever felt uncomfortable by a contact? If so what did you do?
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings, Edie
TWEETABLES
How much information is safe for an author to share online? Tips from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Stay safe while building an online presence - #SocialMedia expert @EdieMelson shares tips (Click to Tweet)
As writers we know the importance of developing an online presence, but is there such a thing as putting too much information out there? How do we know when we've gone beyond platform building into an area that puts us and our families at risk?
The result of too much information online can range from the irritating to the dangerous.
But it is possible to be smart and still have an online presence that will garner you the right kind of reader notice.
Here are some tips to help you stay out of trouble:
Have boundaries firmly established in your own mind—BEFORE something happens. That way, when someone get too familiar, you’ll be ready to do more than just feel vaguely uncomfortable. So often I talk to writers who have a cyber-stalker and they’re not even certain whether they should be concerned or not.Trust your instincts. I cannot emphasize this one strongly enough. If someone makes you uncomfortable, act on your feelings.Don’t friend/follow/or otherwise engage someone who isn’t willing to post a picture and/or give out reasonable information.Don’t use an social media networks and/or settings where you check in at places. There is no good reason or someone to know where you are generally. If you’re at a conference or a big event, you can let people know you’re there if you choose, but don’t leave your safety to a computer program.Turn OFF your location settings for your phone, digital camera, ereader and tablet. Otherwise, any picture you take with those devices could have an imbedded code that gives the latitude and longitude of where the picture was taken. This is especially true if you post pictures of children (your own or even grandkids). Don’t make it easy for a predator to map out your location.
What should you do when something makes you uncomfortable?
The biggest thing is do NOT be tempted to be polite when you’re worried. This is similar to following your instincts in that we often push down our uncomfortable feelings for the sake of being polite. If someone is tweeting to you, sending you repeated Facebook messages, or contacting you in any way that makes you uncomfortable, don’t ignore your feelings.
First, confront the person making you uncomfortable and request they respect your boundaries.If they don’t adhere to your guidelines, immediately block them from the social media networks where they are contacting you.Finally, report them to the social media network(s) where the infraction occurred.
This isn’t something you should fool around with, but it’s also something you shouldn’t be worried about. Taking these steps will keep you safe and give you the boundaries you need to stay safe online.
What steps do you take to stay safe? Have you ever felt uncomfortable by a contact? If so what did you do?
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings, Edie
TWEETABLES
How much information is safe for an author to share online? Tips from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Stay safe while building an online presence - #SocialMedia expert @EdieMelson shares tips (Click to Tweet)
July 30, 2015
Calendar Days—August’s Crazy Holidays & Special Occasions—Idea Starters for Writers
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
It’s time again for Calendar Days. These are fun to read and also a great way to jumpstart our creativity when looking for ideas for articles and blog posts.
They’re also a fun writing prompt idea.
In addition, calendar days are great conversation starters for social media sites like Facebook and Twitter.
August is:Romance Awareness MonthFamily Fun MonthNational Catfish MonthAdmit You’re Happy MonthNational Picnic MonthInventor’s MonthAmerican Artists Appreciation MonthAmerican Indian Heritage MonthNational Goat Cheese MonthNational Immunization Awareness MonthNational Panini MonthWhat Will Be Your Legacy MonthPeach MonthNational Golf Month
Weekly CelebrationsWeek 1:National Simplify your Life Week
Week 2:National Smile Week
Week 3:Friendship week
Week 4:Be Kind to Humankind Week
Individual DaysAugust 1National Raspberry Cream Pie DayRounds Resounding DayNational Mustard DayGirlfriends DayWorld Wide Web DayUs Air Force DayYorkshire Day
August 2National Ice Cream Sandwich DayFriendship DayInternational Forgiveness DaySister’s Day
August 3National Watermelon Day
August 4Assistance Dog DayU.S. Coast Guard DaySocial Security Day
August 5Work Like a Dog DayNational Oyster DayNational Underwear Day
August 6Wiggle Your Toes DayNational Root Beer Float DayFresh Breath Day
August 7National Lighthouse DayParticularly Preposterous Packaging DayProfessional Speakers DayPurple Heart Day
August 8Garage Sale DaySneak Some Zucchini onto Your Neighbor’s Porch DayHappiness Happens DayInternational Cat DayOdie Day (Garfield’s Pal)
August 9Rice Pudding DayBook Lover’s Day
August 10Lazy DayWorld Lion DayNational Duran Duran DaySkyscraper Appreciation DayNational S’mores Day
August 11Son and Daughter DayIngersoll DayPlay in the Sand DayPresidential Joke Day (did you hear the one about…)
August 12Middle Child’s DayWorld Elephant DayVinyl Record DayInternational Youth Day
August 13International Left Hander’s Day
August 14V-J Day (marks the end of WWII. There are actually 3 dates with this designation. August 14—Japan surrenders; August 15‑Surrender announced to the world; September 2‑Ceremony and formal signing of surrender.)National Creamsicle DayNational Navajo Code Talkers Day
August 15Corn on the Cob DayWorld Honey Bee DayInternational Geocaching Day (Third Saturday in August)International Homeless Animal DayV-J Day (see note above)National Relaxation Day
August 16Rollercoaster DayNational Tell a Joke DayNational Airborne Day
August 17National Thriftshop DayBlack Cat appreciation Day
August 18Bad Poetry DayMail Order Catalog Day
August 19Photography DayWorld Humanitarian DayAviation Day
August 20World Mosquito DayChocolate Pecan Pie DayLemonade DayNational Radio Day
August 21Spumoni DayMen’s Grooming DaySenior Citizen’s DayPoets Day
August 22Be an Angel DayNational Tooth Fairy Day (also celebrated on February 28)Take Your Cat to the Vet Day
August 23Valentino DayRide the Wind Day
August 24Knife DayVesuvius DayInternational Strange Music DayPluto Demoted Day
August 25Kiss and Make Up Day
August 26Women’s Equality DayNational Dog Day
August 27Global Forgiveness DayJust Because DayBurger DayThe Duchess Who Wasn’t Day (Margaret Wolfe Hungerford http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Margaret_Wolfe_Hungerford, she’s responsible for the popular phrase, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” It’s from her book, Molly Bawn) Just Because Day
August 28Bow Tie DayRadio commercials DayRace Your Mouse Around the Icons Day
August 29More Herbs, Less Salt DayIndividual Rights DayFranchise Appreciation DayAccording to Hoyle Day
August 30National Toasted Marshmallow DaySlinky DayNational Holistic Pet DayPony Express DayFrankenstein Day
August 31Love Litigating Lawyers DayWe Love Memoirs DayNational Trail Mix Day
Now let's do a little brainstorming for next month. What are some of your favorite days from the list and how do you propose using them?
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLES
Use August's crazy holidays to get the #socialmedia conversation started &spark #writing ideas - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Don't get caught without an idea, use the calendar to #write #blog posts & articles - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
It’s time again for Calendar Days. These are fun to read and also a great way to jumpstart our creativity when looking for ideas for articles and blog posts. They’re also a fun writing prompt idea.
In addition, calendar days are great conversation starters for social media sites like Facebook and Twitter.
August is:Romance Awareness MonthFamily Fun MonthNational Catfish MonthAdmit You’re Happy MonthNational Picnic MonthInventor’s MonthAmerican Artists Appreciation MonthAmerican Indian Heritage MonthNational Goat Cheese MonthNational Immunization Awareness MonthNational Panini MonthWhat Will Be Your Legacy MonthPeach MonthNational Golf Month
Weekly CelebrationsWeek 1:National Simplify your Life Week
Week 2:National Smile Week
Week 3:Friendship week
Week 4:Be Kind to Humankind Week
Individual DaysAugust 1National Raspberry Cream Pie DayRounds Resounding DayNational Mustard DayGirlfriends DayWorld Wide Web DayUs Air Force DayYorkshire Day
August 2National Ice Cream Sandwich DayFriendship DayInternational Forgiveness DaySister’s Day
August 3National Watermelon Day
August 4Assistance Dog DayU.S. Coast Guard DaySocial Security Day
August 5Work Like a Dog DayNational Oyster DayNational Underwear Day
August 6Wiggle Your Toes DayNational Root Beer Float DayFresh Breath Day
August 7National Lighthouse DayParticularly Preposterous Packaging DayProfessional Speakers DayPurple Heart Day
August 8Garage Sale DaySneak Some Zucchini onto Your Neighbor’s Porch DayHappiness Happens DayInternational Cat DayOdie Day (Garfield’s Pal)
August 9Rice Pudding DayBook Lover’s Day
August 10Lazy DayWorld Lion DayNational Duran Duran DaySkyscraper Appreciation DayNational S’mores Day
August 11Son and Daughter DayIngersoll DayPlay in the Sand DayPresidential Joke Day (did you hear the one about…)
August 12Middle Child’s DayWorld Elephant DayVinyl Record DayInternational Youth Day
August 13International Left Hander’s Day
August 14V-J Day (marks the end of WWII. There are actually 3 dates with this designation. August 14—Japan surrenders; August 15‑Surrender announced to the world; September 2‑Ceremony and formal signing of surrender.)National Creamsicle DayNational Navajo Code Talkers Day
August 15Corn on the Cob DayWorld Honey Bee DayInternational Geocaching Day (Third Saturday in August)International Homeless Animal DayV-J Day (see note above)National Relaxation Day
August 16Rollercoaster DayNational Tell a Joke DayNational Airborne Day
August 17National Thriftshop DayBlack Cat appreciation Day
August 18Bad Poetry DayMail Order Catalog Day
August 19Photography DayWorld Humanitarian DayAviation Day
August 20World Mosquito DayChocolate Pecan Pie DayLemonade DayNational Radio Day
August 21Spumoni DayMen’s Grooming DaySenior Citizen’s DayPoets Day
August 22Be an Angel DayNational Tooth Fairy Day (also celebrated on February 28)Take Your Cat to the Vet Day
August 23Valentino DayRide the Wind Day
August 24Knife DayVesuvius DayInternational Strange Music DayPluto Demoted Day
August 25Kiss and Make Up Day
August 26Women’s Equality DayNational Dog Day
August 27Global Forgiveness DayJust Because DayBurger DayThe Duchess Who Wasn’t Day (Margaret Wolfe Hungerford http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Margaret_Wolfe_Hungerford, she’s responsible for the popular phrase, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” It’s from her book, Molly Bawn) Just Because Day
August 28Bow Tie DayRadio commercials DayRace Your Mouse Around the Icons Day
August 29More Herbs, Less Salt DayIndividual Rights DayFranchise Appreciation DayAccording to Hoyle Day
August 30National Toasted Marshmallow DaySlinky DayNational Holistic Pet DayPony Express DayFrankenstein Day
August 31Love Litigating Lawyers DayWe Love Memoirs DayNational Trail Mix Day
Now let's do a little brainstorming for next month. What are some of your favorite days from the list and how do you propose using them?
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLES
Use August's crazy holidays to get the #socialmedia conversation started &spark #writing ideas - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Don't get caught without an idea, use the calendar to #write #blog posts & articles - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
July 28, 2015
Have You Found Your Way to The Writing Zone?
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
Entering the Writing ZoneThere is a fifth dimension beyond that which is known to man. It is a dimension as vast as space and as timeless as infinity. It is the middle ground between light and shadow, between science and superstition, and it lies between the pit of man's fears and the summit of his knowledge. This is the dimension of imagination. It is an area which we call THE WRITING ZONE.
Okay, I confess. I borrowed the intro from a television cult classic. But truthfully, have you ever read a better explanation of what it means to be a writer?
Today I’m offering some tips to help you find your way to the writing zone.
Be willing to call yourself a writer.1. Be Willing to Call Yourself a Writer: Yes, this one is controversial. There are many who argue that we must do much more than just call ourselves a writer to become a writer. I would only say this, I believe that calling yourself a writer is the first step on becoming a writer. Without that step, it’s hard to move forward.
2. Spend time Writing: This may seem like a no-brainer, but spending time talking about writing—as opposed to actually writing is fairly common. Don’t be one of those who only dream, be ready to walk through to The Writing Zone by spending time writing.
3. Invest Financially in Your Writing:Take classes, attend conferences, buy books, join organizations. Do your homework first, but be ready to put your money where your pen is. Here’s a series of posts I wrote about Dollars & Sense for Writers.
4. Develop the Art of Patience & Enjoy the Journey: Finding success in publishing rarely happens overnight. Realize that you’re in it for the long hall and do the next thing. Relax and enjoy the journey, but keep moving forward.
5. Make Writing a Priority: In the beginning, it’s hard for some friends and family to understand the commitment it takes to become a writer. Beginning writers don’t often get paid for writing and it’s easy to assume it’s a hobby. For some writing is a hobby, and that’s fine. But if you’re serious, then act like it. If you don’t take writing seriously, then no one else will.
6. Realize that Failure is an Option—a Good One: We often learn more when we fail. If we never experience failure, it’s a sign that we’ve never tried anything difficult.
Talent is a very small part of the equation.7. Talent is a Very Small Part of the Equation: Talent won’t take you far. Diligence and perseverance are where you find the strength for The Writing Zone.
8. Don’t Try to Go It Alone: While writing is a mainly solitary pursuit, we still need others to help us. We need to be a part of a writing community so we can give and receive encouragement and get perspective on what we write.
9. Don’t Kill Your Creativity with Negative Self-Talk: We all do it. But talking down to ourselves will have a negative impact.
10. Comparison is a Death Trap for Writes: It’s easy to look at others and think we’re gaining perspective. The truth is, we aren’t. Everyone’s writing journey looks different. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all endeavor.
11. Keep the Faith: There is a reason you started on this journey. Write it down and put it where you can see it. I believe God made me as a person who processes life through words. If I tried to give up writing, I truly think I’d die.
These are the things that have helped me find my way to The Writing Zone. What would you add to the list? Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESThe Writing Zone is a lot like The Twilight Zone - thoughts from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Have You Found Your Way to THE WRITING ZONE? - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Entering the Writing ZoneThere is a fifth dimension beyond that which is known to man. It is a dimension as vast as space and as timeless as infinity. It is the middle ground between light and shadow, between science and superstition, and it lies between the pit of man's fears and the summit of his knowledge. This is the dimension of imagination. It is an area which we call THE WRITING ZONE.Okay, I confess. I borrowed the intro from a television cult classic. But truthfully, have you ever read a better explanation of what it means to be a writer?
Today I’m offering some tips to help you find your way to the writing zone.
Be willing to call yourself a writer.1. Be Willing to Call Yourself a Writer: Yes, this one is controversial. There are many who argue that we must do much more than just call ourselves a writer to become a writer. I would only say this, I believe that calling yourself a writer is the first step on becoming a writer. Without that step, it’s hard to move forward. 2. Spend time Writing: This may seem like a no-brainer, but spending time talking about writing—as opposed to actually writing is fairly common. Don’t be one of those who only dream, be ready to walk through to The Writing Zone by spending time writing.
3. Invest Financially in Your Writing:Take classes, attend conferences, buy books, join organizations. Do your homework first, but be ready to put your money where your pen is. Here’s a series of posts I wrote about Dollars & Sense for Writers.
4. Develop the Art of Patience & Enjoy the Journey: Finding success in publishing rarely happens overnight. Realize that you’re in it for the long hall and do the next thing. Relax and enjoy the journey, but keep moving forward.
5. Make Writing a Priority: In the beginning, it’s hard for some friends and family to understand the commitment it takes to become a writer. Beginning writers don’t often get paid for writing and it’s easy to assume it’s a hobby. For some writing is a hobby, and that’s fine. But if you’re serious, then act like it. If you don’t take writing seriously, then no one else will.
6. Realize that Failure is an Option—a Good One: We often learn more when we fail. If we never experience failure, it’s a sign that we’ve never tried anything difficult.
Talent is a very small part of the equation.7. Talent is a Very Small Part of the Equation: Talent won’t take you far. Diligence and perseverance are where you find the strength for The Writing Zone.8. Don’t Try to Go It Alone: While writing is a mainly solitary pursuit, we still need others to help us. We need to be a part of a writing community so we can give and receive encouragement and get perspective on what we write.
9. Don’t Kill Your Creativity with Negative Self-Talk: We all do it. But talking down to ourselves will have a negative impact.
10. Comparison is a Death Trap for Writes: It’s easy to look at others and think we’re gaining perspective. The truth is, we aren’t. Everyone’s writing journey looks different. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all endeavor.
11. Keep the Faith: There is a reason you started on this journey. Write it down and put it where you can see it. I believe God made me as a person who processes life through words. If I tried to give up writing, I truly think I’d die.
These are the things that have helped me find my way to The Writing Zone. What would you add to the list? Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESThe Writing Zone is a lot like The Twilight Zone - thoughts from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Have You Found Your Way to THE WRITING ZONE? - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
July 27, 2015
Social Media Basics for Writers—Scheduling Tips for Using Hootsuite
Last week we started discussing how to use Hootsuite, my secret weapon for social media time management. Today I'm finishing up. One thing I've discovered, there's too much information to put in one single post. So this will be continued in at least one more post.
Now on to business at hand.
Here is step by step how I schedule Tweets and Facebook Posts in Hootsuite.
(Step one picture above)Step One, I click on Compose message. (It's written in light gray, and a little hard to read against the white)
Step Two, the window expands and I now have access to everything I need. Across the bottom you see the Add a link... window.
One the other side is a paper clip symbol for attaching something like a photo.
Next is the calendar icon, to schedule my updates.
Next is an upside down teardrop looking icon - this is to add a location.
Finally there is a lock icon - for privacy settings.
In this window you see three of my social media profiles highlighted. With the free version of Hootsuite (all you need at first) you'll only have the option of setting up three profiles. The paid version (9.99 a month) gives you more platforms.
(Step two picture above)
Step Three, in this screen shot I have added the text for my tweet (complete with hashtags) and copy and pasted the appropriate URL into the link window. Next I will click the Shrink icon and this will shorten my link for Twitter. This is important because in Twitter I only have 140 characters and some links are 40 or 50 characters long.
(Step Three Picture above)Step Four, in this screen shot (like others before it) you can see the drop-down menu where I can choose which social media profiles I want this update to post to. In the free version of Hootsuite you are allowed 3 profiles. Also, after I shrunk my link, Hootsuite added it to the end of my tweet. Since I have a Facebook profile as one of the accounts I want updated it also shows me how it will look on Facebook.
Special Note: There are two backward facing arrows where you have the option of Choosing a thumbnail. With this post, I only have one choice, but often times you can click those arrows and choose which picture accompanies your update.
(Step Four Picture above)
Step Five, now I’m ready to schedule my update. When I clicked on the calendar icon, the scheduling menu dropped down. It gives me today’s date and the option to change the time it goes out.
After you choose a time, be sure to click the corresponding AM or PM box. If you forget that it won’t tell you, but it won’t schedule either. It will just sit there until you figure it out. (not helpful at all)
There is also a small box beside the Email me when message is sent. If you check this box you’ll get an email telling you the update went out. I used to do this, now I know it’s reliable, I don’t bother. Who needs more emails?
Finally, you can see to the right of the drop down menu, one of my Hootsuite columns titled, Scheduled Tweets. This is where all my Tweets for the day are listed. As you can see, they’ve all gone out for today already.
(Step Five Picture above)Now it’s your turn . . . any questions or tips? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Don't forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLES
Learn the secret weapon for #socialmedia time management from expert @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Using a scheduling program for #SocialMedia isn't difficult - tips from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Previous Posts in This Series:
Part I—Know Where You are and Where You’re GoingPart II—When Should a Writer Start Building a Social Media NetworkPart III—Targeting Millennials: Snapchat’s 3 Most Dominant Brands & Their Tactics Part IV—Dealing with Facebook SpamPart V—How to Use Hashtags in Social Media
Part VI—Is Twitter Worth the Bother?
Part VII—Get Started with Hootsuite
July 26, 2015
Do You Ever Get Tired of the Wait?
by Brenda McGraw @BrendaMMcGraw
Waiting is hard.Waiting is hard. When growing up, we wait to turn 13 years old, and then 18. We anticipate turning 21 so we can feel like an adult.
Many of us dream about our wedding date and wait for the perfect spouse. Then we have to wait to get married.
Pregnancy lasts nine long months before we’re rewarded with a baby. At that point we can’t wait until the infant starts sleeping all night. We push through, loving every minute of parenthood, but cannot wait until they can dress and feed themselves.Kids grow up and become teenagers and we can’t wait until they become adults so they can move out on their own. Then we find ourselves waiting for them to come home again for a visit.
We wait in the line at the store, in the school pick up line and at the bank. We have to wait for a seat at the restaurant and then wait for our food. We anticipate a new movie or television show beginning and it seems like forever before it actually starts.
Perhaps we are selling our house and we have to wait for it to sell and then wait again to close on a new home.
Is there ever a time when we aren’t waiting?
We watch the years fly by, sometimes ever so slowly. Then we look back wonder where the time went? Time flies even through the waits.
Waiting can be difficult. Especially when we’re waiting on an answer to prayer or for God to do something about our situation. We know God is in control and we trust Him, but many times He doesn’t seem to be showing up quite fast enough.
About twelve years ago I remember hearing the call of God on my life to write and speak. It was very clear to me that God was calling me to write a book and that I would be traveling and speaking sharing hope, encouragement and my faith with others. I questioned God, “Are You sure You are talking to me God because I don’t know how to write a book or even where to begin?”
The waiting launched. I attended a writing and speaking Conference and walked away with lots of books and some great information and a little less money. After a period of time, the info and books were placed on a shelf and life continued to happen one day at a time. I dreamed of going to the She Speaks Conference with Proverbs 31 Ministry, but it too had to wait. I have since be able to attend and loved it.
Ten years later after years of confirmation I stepped out on faith and took a writing course and began blogging and writing. My first book was published and released in March of 2014, after years of waiting on God’s perfect timing.
During the “in-between time,” as Jeff Goins calls it, I continued to walk with the Lord and serve and teach God’s word in my local church. I started compiling and writing lessons, teaching in a women’s and adult Sunday school class and leading women’s Bible study groups. I co-wrote a bible study with a friend of mine. God was growing me up in His word and preparing me for what He wanted me to be so He could use me.
I waited on the Lord’s timing. I wanted to be exactly where He wanted me and if He ever wanted me to write a book or speak I trusted that He would make that happen.
Was it easy to wait on God’s timing?
The answer is “no,” many times. We want things our way and in our timing. We are the microwave and Burger King generation. We want it now and to have it our way.
I have learned when we let God lead us and we follow Him, His timing and plans are always better.
What are you waiting for now?
Have you asked God to open doors and they seemed to be staying closed? Are you thinking of quitting because you just don’t have the energy to keep on persevering?
God tells us in His word, “Wait for the LORD; be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.” Psalms 27:14
Don’t quit. Stay the course. Our strength comes from the Lord. When God doesn’t open the door we want Him to, we can trust Him and know He has a better door for us to walk through. We just have to wait on His timing. He will open “Door number one, two or three”, when He is ready for us to walk forward. We don’t even have to choose the correct door and guess at what’s behind it. We just have to trust that “He’s got this.” Trust Jesus in the closed doors of life knowing He is protecting you and has good plans for you, plans to give you a hope and future and not to harm you.
How can I pray for you as you wait for God’s timing today?
Brenda McGraw is an author and speaker who reveals how to discover joy beyond the clutter of life. She draws from her own life experiences in the #1 Amazon Best seller, “Joy Beyond, 28 Days to Finding Joy Beyond the Clutter of Life”. She is the founder of Ask God Today Ministries where she has a team of writers sharing truth and hope with others.
Brenda currently lives in South Carolina with her husband, Jeff and three of their five children. She is a survivor of breast cancer and a heart attack.. Despite the challenges she has endured, Brenda found peace through her relationship with Jesus Christ.
You can connect with Brenda at:Website - http://www.askgodtoday.com Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Brenda-McGraw/e/B00GOIE7AG Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/BrendaMMcGraw
Waiting is hard.Waiting is hard. When growing up, we wait to turn 13 years old, and then 18. We anticipate turning 21 so we can feel like an adult. Many of us dream about our wedding date and wait for the perfect spouse. Then we have to wait to get married.
Pregnancy lasts nine long months before we’re rewarded with a baby. At that point we can’t wait until the infant starts sleeping all night. We push through, loving every minute of parenthood, but cannot wait until they can dress and feed themselves.Kids grow up and become teenagers and we can’t wait until they become adults so they can move out on their own. Then we find ourselves waiting for them to come home again for a visit.
We wait in the line at the store, in the school pick up line and at the bank. We have to wait for a seat at the restaurant and then wait for our food. We anticipate a new movie or television show beginning and it seems like forever before it actually starts.
Perhaps we are selling our house and we have to wait for it to sell and then wait again to close on a new home.
Is there ever a time when we aren’t waiting?
We watch the years fly by, sometimes ever so slowly. Then we look back wonder where the time went? Time flies even through the waits.Waiting can be difficult. Especially when we’re waiting on an answer to prayer or for God to do something about our situation. We know God is in control and we trust Him, but many times He doesn’t seem to be showing up quite fast enough.
About twelve years ago I remember hearing the call of God on my life to write and speak. It was very clear to me that God was calling me to write a book and that I would be traveling and speaking sharing hope, encouragement and my faith with others. I questioned God, “Are You sure You are talking to me God because I don’t know how to write a book or even where to begin?”
The waiting launched. I attended a writing and speaking Conference and walked away with lots of books and some great information and a little less money. After a period of time, the info and books were placed on a shelf and life continued to happen one day at a time. I dreamed of going to the She Speaks Conference with Proverbs 31 Ministry, but it too had to wait. I have since be able to attend and loved it.
Ten years later after years of confirmation I stepped out on faith and took a writing course and began blogging and writing. My first book was published and released in March of 2014, after years of waiting on God’s perfect timing. During the “in-between time,” as Jeff Goins calls it, I continued to walk with the Lord and serve and teach God’s word in my local church. I started compiling and writing lessons, teaching in a women’s and adult Sunday school class and leading women’s Bible study groups. I co-wrote a bible study with a friend of mine. God was growing me up in His word and preparing me for what He wanted me to be so He could use me.
I waited on the Lord’s timing. I wanted to be exactly where He wanted me and if He ever wanted me to write a book or speak I trusted that He would make that happen.
Was it easy to wait on God’s timing?
The answer is “no,” many times. We want things our way and in our timing. We are the microwave and Burger King generation. We want it now and to have it our way.
I have learned when we let God lead us and we follow Him, His timing and plans are always better.
What are you waiting for now?
Have you asked God to open doors and they seemed to be staying closed? Are you thinking of quitting because you just don’t have the energy to keep on persevering?
God tells us in His word, “Wait for the LORD; be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.” Psalms 27:14
Don’t quit. Stay the course. Our strength comes from the Lord. When God doesn’t open the door we want Him to, we can trust Him and know He has a better door for us to walk through. We just have to wait on His timing. He will open “Door number one, two or three”, when He is ready for us to walk forward. We don’t even have to choose the correct door and guess at what’s behind it. We just have to trust that “He’s got this.” Trust Jesus in the closed doors of life knowing He is protecting you and has good plans for you, plans to give you a hope and future and not to harm you.
How can I pray for you as you wait for God’s timing today?
Brenda McGraw is an author and speaker who reveals how to discover joy beyond the clutter of life. She draws from her own life experiences in the #1 Amazon Best seller, “Joy Beyond, 28 Days to Finding Joy Beyond the Clutter of Life”. She is the founder of Ask God Today Ministries where she has a team of writers sharing truth and hope with others.
Brenda currently lives in South Carolina with her husband, Jeff and three of their five children. She is a survivor of breast cancer and a heart attack.. Despite the challenges she has endured, Brenda found peace through her relationship with Jesus Christ.
You can connect with Brenda at:Website - http://www.askgodtoday.com Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Brenda-McGraw/e/B00GOIE7AG Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/BrendaMMcGraw
July 25, 2015
Soul Ready
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
I snapped this picture the last night I was on my mini writing retreat with Vonda Skelton and Mary Denman. This quote seemed to fit.
Share a time when something special snuck up on you!
I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
I snapped this picture the last night I was on my mini writing retreat with Vonda Skelton and Mary Denman. This quote seemed to fit.
Share a time when something special snuck up on you!
I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
July 24, 2015
Where do New Words Come From? Portmanteau
by Lori Hatcher @LoriHatcher2
The endless scroll of commercial messages flashed across the screen in the periphery of the coffee shop where I was enjoying brunch—Medicare, an upcoming telethon, a new sitcom, and a documentary about Army paratroopers. Add to this the distraction of the new ezine that had just arrived in my email box, and you can understand why I was struggling to compose my latest blog post.
I decided to investigate a word I hadn’t heard since high school English class, but recently stumbled across, portmanteau.
The website LiteraryDevices.net defines the word portmanteau (pawrt-MAN-toh) as “a literary device in which two or more words are joined together to coin a new word. A portmanteau word is formed by blending parts of two or more words but it always refers to a single concept.” Unlike a compound word, it can have a completely different meaning from the words from which it was coined.If you’ll look back to the first paragraph of this blog post, you’ll find nine portmanteau words. Can you spot them? The answers are at the bottom of the post. To get you started, I’ll tell you that the word blog is a portmanteau. It comes from the words web and log. The term "weblog" was coined by Jorn Barger in December 1997. The shorter version, "blog," was coined by Peter Merholz, who, in April or May of 1999, broke the word weblog into the phrase "we blog" in the sidebar of his weblog.**
As writers, we have the joy of painting beautiful word pictures, composing stirring word sonnets, and yes, even creating completely unique words. Like Lewis Carroll, who birthed slithy and mimsy, in his famous poem, “Jabberwocky,” we are free to coin a new word if those available to us are insufficient.
Have you ever combed through a dictionary of synonyms, searching in vain for just the right word? Be frustrated no more. Enter the portmanteau. There’s nothing more delightful than a well-turned phrase or a unique coinage. Writers appreciate it, and so do readers.
I worked with a short, round, curly-headed dental hygienist in my early years of practice. After a difficult patient or a long day, she’d rub her hand across her forehead, let out a great sigh, and exclaim, “I’m about to SURMISE!” A portmanteau that combines the words surrender and demise, surmise described her feelings better than any other word in her vocabulary.
My buff cocker spaniel puppy, Polly, inspired my first original portmanteau. Trying to capture how she acted as she bounced and raced and wiggled around the house after her bath, I told my husband, “She feels SPRIGGLY.”
Spriggly, like surmise, has become a permanent addition to our family lexicon.
If you’re struggling with boredom in your writing, why not stretch your creativity by creating your own portmanteau? Then find a way to include it in your writing. And share it with us in the comment box below so we can appreciate your genius. Portmanteau, says Literarydevices.net, “attracts readers’ attention as readers enjoy and appreciate this subtle demonstration of word play.”
It’s also good, clean, nerdy, writer fun. And we can all use more fun in our lives.
Now it's your turn. What words have you invented? Share in the comments section below - you'll never know what may catch on!
TWEETABLES
Where do new words come from? Portmanteau from author @LoriHatcher2 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Playing with words - Portmanteau - via @LoriHatcher2 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Answers: Portmanteau in the first paragraph: brunch, Medicare, telethon, sitcom, documentary, paratroopers, ezine, email, blog.
Lori Hatcher is the editor of Reach Out, Columbia magazine and the author of two devotional books. Her second, Hungry for God…Starving for Time, 5-Minute Devotions for Busy Women released in December. A blogger, writing instructor, and women’s ministry speaker, her goal is to help women connect with God in the craziness of life. You’ll find her pondering the marvelous and the mundane on her blog, Hungry for God…Starving for Time. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter (@LoriHatcher2), or Pinterest (Hungry for God).
The endless scroll of commercial messages flashed across the screen in the periphery of the coffee shop where I was enjoying brunch—Medicare, an upcoming telethon, a new sitcom, and a documentary about Army paratroopers. Add to this the distraction of the new ezine that had just arrived in my email box, and you can understand why I was struggling to compose my latest blog post.I decided to investigate a word I hadn’t heard since high school English class, but recently stumbled across, portmanteau.
The website LiteraryDevices.net defines the word portmanteau (pawrt-MAN-toh) as “a literary device in which two or more words are joined together to coin a new word. A portmanteau word is formed by blending parts of two or more words but it always refers to a single concept.” Unlike a compound word, it can have a completely different meaning from the words from which it was coined.If you’ll look back to the first paragraph of this blog post, you’ll find nine portmanteau words. Can you spot them? The answers are at the bottom of the post. To get you started, I’ll tell you that the word blog is a portmanteau. It comes from the words web and log. The term "weblog" was coined by Jorn Barger in December 1997. The shorter version, "blog," was coined by Peter Merholz, who, in April or May of 1999, broke the word weblog into the phrase "we blog" in the sidebar of his weblog.**
As writers, we have the joy of painting beautiful word pictures, composing stirring word sonnets, and yes, even creating completely unique words. Like Lewis Carroll, who birthed slithy and mimsy, in his famous poem, “Jabberwocky,” we are free to coin a new word if those available to us are insufficient. Have you ever combed through a dictionary of synonyms, searching in vain for just the right word? Be frustrated no more. Enter the portmanteau. There’s nothing more delightful than a well-turned phrase or a unique coinage. Writers appreciate it, and so do readers.
I worked with a short, round, curly-headed dental hygienist in my early years of practice. After a difficult patient or a long day, she’d rub her hand across her forehead, let out a great sigh, and exclaim, “I’m about to SURMISE!” A portmanteau that combines the words surrender and demise, surmise described her feelings better than any other word in her vocabulary.
My buff cocker spaniel puppy, Polly, inspired my first original portmanteau. Trying to capture how she acted as she bounced and raced and wiggled around the house after her bath, I told my husband, “She feels SPRIGGLY.”
Spriggly, like surmise, has become a permanent addition to our family lexicon.
If you’re struggling with boredom in your writing, why not stretch your creativity by creating your own portmanteau? Then find a way to include it in your writing. And share it with us in the comment box below so we can appreciate your genius. Portmanteau, says Literarydevices.net, “attracts readers’ attention as readers enjoy and appreciate this subtle demonstration of word play.”
It’s also good, clean, nerdy, writer fun. And we can all use more fun in our lives.
Now it's your turn. What words have you invented? Share in the comments section below - you'll never know what may catch on!
TWEETABLES
Where do new words come from? Portmanteau from author @LoriHatcher2 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Playing with words - Portmanteau - via @LoriHatcher2 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Answers: Portmanteau in the first paragraph: brunch, Medicare, telethon, sitcom, documentary, paratroopers, ezine, email, blog.
Lori Hatcher is the editor of Reach Out, Columbia magazine and the author of two devotional books. Her second, Hungry for God…Starving for Time, 5-Minute Devotions for Busy Women released in December. A blogger, writing instructor, and women’s ministry speaker, her goal is to help women connect with God in the craziness of life. You’ll find her pondering the marvelous and the mundane on her blog, Hungry for God…Starving for Time. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter (@LoriHatcher2), or Pinterest (Hungry for God).
