Chelle Ramsey's Blog, page 89
August 18, 2012
SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING
TECHNORATII could not have imagined just three short months ago how many social media sites are available or the number of sites provided to manage these sites. Just a few short ones that I have found recently include:
HootSuite
Kindleboards
Technorati
I stumbled upon the fabulous HootSuite and I don't know who thought of it, but I believe that is ingenious to develop a service that keeps people and businesses organized by collectively managing all of your social media sites in one location. HootSuite provides the opportunity to stay updated with all of your pages at one time, (e.g., FB, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, etc.).
I am still fumbling around Kindleboards and Technorati to learn how to use these sites to my full advantage. Technorati provides blog readers information they need to link them to relevant blogs based on tag words or topics they are searching for. I am still struggling with learning the difference between an RSS feed and my regular webpage. Technorati requires this information when you join their site if you want to claim a blog. I only hope that I entered the correct information. Well readers...we shall know in a few days. I am enjoying the interaction I have with some readers on blogger; however, they have been using Facebook to interact with me, because they could not post comments. I learned today how to change that option on Blogger and allow readers to post comments. I'm still searching for a way they can leave pictures if they desire; many would like to share their pictures on Hair Au Naturale, but for now that is a mystery that remains unsolved.
Once I conquer these new areas I will move on to mastering Google+.
S6M7ZYGADQU4
HootSuite
Kindleboards
Technorati
I stumbled upon the fabulous HootSuite and I don't know who thought of it, but I believe that is ingenious to develop a service that keeps people and businesses organized by collectively managing all of your social media sites in one location. HootSuite provides the opportunity to stay updated with all of your pages at one time, (e.g., FB, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, etc.).
I am still fumbling around Kindleboards and Technorati to learn how to use these sites to my full advantage. Technorati provides blog readers information they need to link them to relevant blogs based on tag words or topics they are searching for. I am still struggling with learning the difference between an RSS feed and my regular webpage. Technorati requires this information when you join their site if you want to claim a blog. I only hope that I entered the correct information. Well readers...we shall know in a few days. I am enjoying the interaction I have with some readers on blogger; however, they have been using Facebook to interact with me, because they could not post comments. I learned today how to change that option on Blogger and allow readers to post comments. I'm still searching for a way they can leave pictures if they desire; many would like to share their pictures on Hair Au Naturale, but for now that is a mystery that remains unsolved.
Once I conquer these new areas I will move on to mastering Google+.
S6M7ZYGADQU4
August 5, 2012
TAKE THE LIMITS OFF
So, I have a press release that has been prepared for me. It reads well and has me extremely excited and anticipating its release. However, the very last statement lists places where I will be visiting soon to promote the book. The next event that will be held locally is the AJC Decatur Book Festival at the end of this month and the first two days into next month. I would love to participate in the event although at this late date there are no booths available. The great part about that is that you can still rent space to have your books displayed and the vendors will manage the sales for you. The downside...there is not an actual physical book to display. Reflections of Promises is an eBook. So what do I do?
I have pondered removing the last statement from the press release regarding being available at upcoming events and sending the press release as is praying that it will be well received. And I have also toyed around with another idea. According to Freelance Writer Kathryn Lively, the option is still available to sell the book at a Book Festival. Today's technology allows authors to set up a laptop to promote the book and the ability to sell right there on the spot. She has excellent advice for first time published authors such as me as well as those who have published print work in the past but are switching to the e-format. I have included the link to her article below.
When I first began to research the AJC Decatur Book Festival I was discouraged because I knew that it would be difficult at best to attempt to convert my work to print before the date. The deadline to register for the event was August 1st; however, they are still accepting late registrations. This article has given me hope that I can attend my first event as a published author. Although self-publishing is hard work as you become author, editor, publisher, marketer, and so much more you must stay focused along the way to overcome little obstacles. The most important element is when you find yourself facing a brick wall, you must learn to take the limits off and think outside the box. There is always another way available and another door to open.
http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Sell-EBooks-at-a-Convention-or-Book-Fair&id=6975602
I have pondered removing the last statement from the press release regarding being available at upcoming events and sending the press release as is praying that it will be well received. And I have also toyed around with another idea. According to Freelance Writer Kathryn Lively, the option is still available to sell the book at a Book Festival. Today's technology allows authors to set up a laptop to promote the book and the ability to sell right there on the spot. She has excellent advice for first time published authors such as me as well as those who have published print work in the past but are switching to the e-format. I have included the link to her article below.
When I first began to research the AJC Decatur Book Festival I was discouraged because I knew that it would be difficult at best to attempt to convert my work to print before the date. The deadline to register for the event was August 1st; however, they are still accepting late registrations. This article has given me hope that I can attend my first event as a published author. Although self-publishing is hard work as you become author, editor, publisher, marketer, and so much more you must stay focused along the way to overcome little obstacles. The most important element is when you find yourself facing a brick wall, you must learn to take the limits off and think outside the box. There is always another way available and another door to open.
http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Sell-EBooks-at-a-Convention-or-Book-Fair&id=6975602
July 30, 2012
HOLD ON TO IT
I had an interesting conversation today with a friend on the topic of pursuing our dreams and passions. I was engrossed in something else and realized she was urgently trying to get my attention. I tried finishing the piece that I was working on but I could tell that she needed to talk to me. She began to share with me her desire to transition her career to another industry other than that which she had earned her degree and been working in for at least a decade. She needed someone to validate her feelings and assure her that such a drastic life change was not crazy. Here's what I told her:
If you truly feel it in your spirit, you at least owe it to yourself to examine those feelings and try to understand where that road may lead. The old saying "nothing beats a failure but a try" is so true and no matter where the road leads at least you will have examined it. When something is pressing so strong in your spirit and you feel the need to do something about it...then do it! I explained to her that I could not tell her what to do ultimately the choice is hers and while I think she would be awesome at the new career choice, she must feel it within herself. She has to believe in herself and regardless of what others say it won't matter until she feels it, believes it and knows it within. And once she feels it she has to hold on to it with everything that is within her and claim it.
When you're already in the midst of a transition as she is it is perfectly fine to examine yourself and your purposes and redefine your goals and dreams. And even if you are not in transition, if you feel the urge press forward to your happiness. I believe if you have something pressing on your spirit that you cannot shake it deserves at least an examination if not a full pursuit. I earned my degree in Human Resources Management but my passion has been and always will be writing. When the economy took a downturn it gave many of us a chance to re-examine our designated career choices and take the opportunity to pursue freelance, entrepreneurship and so much more. Together my friend and I outlined some steps that she could take on her pursuit to her dream and back-up that she would need to financially carry her through the transition.
I often think that as a society we become encumbered with other people's expectations of us as well as what other people will think about us. Allowing others to define who we should be will not bring joy and happiness unless their goals are in alignment with our dreams. We must learn to break those chains and release ourselves to live freely in the design God fashioned us to be. If there is a burning passion within to change careers and pursue our dreams and passions I believe we at least owe it to ourselves to research the matter. Don't get me wrong, I don't think it would be wise to jump in headfirst into something without doing the proper research and understanding the effect it will have on our lives. But we should at least look into it and see if it is feasible and how to make it happen.
Writing is my passion and while I would rather do this all day than anything else, realistically there are bills that must be paid. Therefore, I have outlined strategies that will allow me to pursue this full time and I realize it is going to take a lot of hard work, dedication and passion. But I'm in it for the long haul. As a freelance writer and newly published author, I am pursuing my passion full-time while I also work full-time. Whether it is on a full or part-time basis, don't ignore your true calling. If you have that burning desire in your spirit to be who you truly are...pursue it with all that is within you and hold on to it!
"Be a butterfly spread your wings and whatever life brings,
be true to you-be YOU-nique! Let the Lord guide you to the beauty inside you and you'll find the joy that you seek."
If you truly feel it in your spirit, you at least owe it to yourself to examine those feelings and try to understand where that road may lead. The old saying "nothing beats a failure but a try" is so true and no matter where the road leads at least you will have examined it. When something is pressing so strong in your spirit and you feel the need to do something about it...then do it! I explained to her that I could not tell her what to do ultimately the choice is hers and while I think she would be awesome at the new career choice, she must feel it within herself. She has to believe in herself and regardless of what others say it won't matter until she feels it, believes it and knows it within. And once she feels it she has to hold on to it with everything that is within her and claim it.
When you're already in the midst of a transition as she is it is perfectly fine to examine yourself and your purposes and redefine your goals and dreams. And even if you are not in transition, if you feel the urge press forward to your happiness. I believe if you have something pressing on your spirit that you cannot shake it deserves at least an examination if not a full pursuit. I earned my degree in Human Resources Management but my passion has been and always will be writing. When the economy took a downturn it gave many of us a chance to re-examine our designated career choices and take the opportunity to pursue freelance, entrepreneurship and so much more. Together my friend and I outlined some steps that she could take on her pursuit to her dream and back-up that she would need to financially carry her through the transition.
I often think that as a society we become encumbered with other people's expectations of us as well as what other people will think about us. Allowing others to define who we should be will not bring joy and happiness unless their goals are in alignment with our dreams. We must learn to break those chains and release ourselves to live freely in the design God fashioned us to be. If there is a burning passion within to change careers and pursue our dreams and passions I believe we at least owe it to ourselves to research the matter. Don't get me wrong, I don't think it would be wise to jump in headfirst into something without doing the proper research and understanding the effect it will have on our lives. But we should at least look into it and see if it is feasible and how to make it happen.
Writing is my passion and while I would rather do this all day than anything else, realistically there are bills that must be paid. Therefore, I have outlined strategies that will allow me to pursue this full time and I realize it is going to take a lot of hard work, dedication and passion. But I'm in it for the long haul. As a freelance writer and newly published author, I am pursuing my passion full-time while I also work full-time. Whether it is on a full or part-time basis, don't ignore your true calling. If you have that burning desire in your spirit to be who you truly are...pursue it with all that is within you and hold on to it!
"Be a butterfly spread your wings and whatever life brings,
be true to you-be YOU-nique! Let the Lord guide you to the beauty inside you and you'll find the joy that you seek."
July 29, 2012
BOOK CLUB REVIEW
Okay...International food theme (Greek, Italian and Indian), R & B playing softly in the background and 6 friends over raucous laughter and whispered discussions kept private from children heading to the swimming pool. Whispers? Topic of the book Fifty Shades of Grey (the next book). We met to discuss "Little Black Girl Lost" by Keith Lee Johnson. Everyone agreed from the beginning this was an easy read, constant page turner and yes Johnnie was a whore.
Johnnie Wise, self-proclaimed church girl, spent her Sundays in church singing in the choir and faithfully serving God. This all changed when a tumultuous event turned her world upside down. Having the option to move ahead and past the hurt and pain or roll with the tide, in a pivotal moment at church one Sunday she decided to forego a visit to the altar for prayer. Collectively, the group felt that Johnnie chose not to visit the altar not only because of her shame but also because she knew that she would not be changing her lifestyle anytime soon.
Her lifestyle change resulted in her being aware of the power that her body held over men and how she could use it as a weapon to get whatever she wanted. While she used it to her advantage to gain material wealth, she had another problem...her mother. Her mother envied what she was able to accomplish in two years between the ages of 15-17 that her mother had never managed to accomplish. Envy led her mother, Marguerite, to take desperate actions, which eventually results in someone's demise.
The book is centered in 1950's Louisiana during a time of racial segregation and a heavy Klan presence. At the back of the book there are a list of questions that we discussed at the book club meeting. We tended to agree on many things: such as the fact that Marguerite was not wise, not financially astute, limited her daughter's options, and we believed that Earl loved Johnny in his own way as much as he could, and she loved Lucas. However, that may have been where the agreement ended.
The next question posed surrounded segregation. The consensus on this question was a resounding no...segregation should not be implemented again. However, feelings of why not diverged from there. It was amazing to me how diverse our views were and simply based on locale. Growing up in Atlanta, GA I was exposed to various cultures and beliefs and as a result am accepting of and embrace differences in others. Some grew up in Northern cities and have similar beliefs to mine. Yet, those raised in the deep south (Georgia) felt vastly different than I did and still embrace views similar to their ancestors and have difficulty rising above those views.
I believe in 2012 all people are different and possess beauty and sometimes not so beautiful things within. However, in my perspective I believe the not so beautiful ideas hosted within stem from the way people were raised, lack of exposure to various cultures, or self-consciousness and insecurities. I do not believe these flaws in humans stem from culture or race. We are all human with our flaws and beauty; however, we must learn and grow from the past and not adhere to it. Because when we do we limit our ability to grow beyond limitless boundaries.
How do you rise above challenges of beliefs that have been ingrained from your childhood?
Johnnie Wise, self-proclaimed church girl, spent her Sundays in church singing in the choir and faithfully serving God. This all changed when a tumultuous event turned her world upside down. Having the option to move ahead and past the hurt and pain or roll with the tide, in a pivotal moment at church one Sunday she decided to forego a visit to the altar for prayer. Collectively, the group felt that Johnnie chose not to visit the altar not only because of her shame but also because she knew that she would not be changing her lifestyle anytime soon.
Her lifestyle change resulted in her being aware of the power that her body held over men and how she could use it as a weapon to get whatever she wanted. While she used it to her advantage to gain material wealth, she had another problem...her mother. Her mother envied what she was able to accomplish in two years between the ages of 15-17 that her mother had never managed to accomplish. Envy led her mother, Marguerite, to take desperate actions, which eventually results in someone's demise.
The book is centered in 1950's Louisiana during a time of racial segregation and a heavy Klan presence. At the back of the book there are a list of questions that we discussed at the book club meeting. We tended to agree on many things: such as the fact that Marguerite was not wise, not financially astute, limited her daughter's options, and we believed that Earl loved Johnny in his own way as much as he could, and she loved Lucas. However, that may have been where the agreement ended.
The next question posed surrounded segregation. The consensus on this question was a resounding no...segregation should not be implemented again. However, feelings of why not diverged from there. It was amazing to me how diverse our views were and simply based on locale. Growing up in Atlanta, GA I was exposed to various cultures and beliefs and as a result am accepting of and embrace differences in others. Some grew up in Northern cities and have similar beliefs to mine. Yet, those raised in the deep south (Georgia) felt vastly different than I did and still embrace views similar to their ancestors and have difficulty rising above those views.
I believe in 2012 all people are different and possess beauty and sometimes not so beautiful things within. However, in my perspective I believe the not so beautiful ideas hosted within stem from the way people were raised, lack of exposure to various cultures, or self-consciousness and insecurities. I do not believe these flaws in humans stem from culture or race. We are all human with our flaws and beauty; however, we must learn and grow from the past and not adhere to it. Because when we do we limit our ability to grow beyond limitless boundaries.
How do you rise above challenges of beliefs that have been ingrained from your childhood?
July 26, 2012
JUST CHILL...
Bills, clueless boss, depressing stories in the news and crazy family! Most of us experience these things and they lead to one thing...STRESS! In times of stress and turmoil I find peace and joy in some of the simplest things: praying, writing a book, listening to smooth jazz, or reading a book. A good fiction novel by J. D. Robb, James Patterson, or Stuart Woods can entertain me for hours as I try to figure out who did it and why. And when I want to truly chill I turn on: Boney James, Najee, Euge Groove, Anita Baker or Sade and just exist in the moment in time...no other noise, no distractionbs, just me and the music and my imagination.
The most important factor to me is to nurture the relationships in my life. My husband and children bring me such joy and proud. Whether we are watching NBA on TV (go Lakers!) or making our own songs and videos we can be loud and just have fun together. They are my encouragement and motivation and make me feel on top of the world when just moments ago the world was on top of me.
My monthly book club meeting is a time when I let my hair down and be a girl again. Entertaining topics of discussion keep us engaged for hours on end...and we're doing good if an hour of that conversation is about the book. Over sumptuous meals, delectable desserts and tasty drinks we engage in lively discussions about our different perspectives on the book and how it relates to our lives. Some particular idea in the book will eventually lead us onto another topic; we're off and roaring and the book discussion is left behind. Yet, these monthly meetings allow me to forget just for a moment that I am a wife and mother...until the kids come crashing into the meeting asking for seconds on the food. Gotta love 'em!
This weekend we will meet to discuss "Little Black Girl Lost" by Keith Lee Johnson. A wonderful book with a different perspective on the routes African American women believed they needed to take to survive in life in the not so distant history (50's). We have come such a long way...and still have so far to go. Excellent read! I cannot wait to hear the other ladies' perspective on this book. I'll share on Sunday.
The most important factor to me is to nurture the relationships in my life. My husband and children bring me such joy and proud. Whether we are watching NBA on TV (go Lakers!) or making our own songs and videos we can be loud and just have fun together. They are my encouragement and motivation and make me feel on top of the world when just moments ago the world was on top of me.
My monthly book club meeting is a time when I let my hair down and be a girl again. Entertaining topics of discussion keep us engaged for hours on end...and we're doing good if an hour of that conversation is about the book. Over sumptuous meals, delectable desserts and tasty drinks we engage in lively discussions about our different perspectives on the book and how it relates to our lives. Some particular idea in the book will eventually lead us onto another topic; we're off and roaring and the book discussion is left behind. Yet, these monthly meetings allow me to forget just for a moment that I am a wife and mother...until the kids come crashing into the meeting asking for seconds on the food. Gotta love 'em!
This weekend we will meet to discuss "Little Black Girl Lost" by Keith Lee Johnson. A wonderful book with a different perspective on the routes African American women believed they needed to take to survive in life in the not so distant history (50's). We have come such a long way...and still have so far to go. Excellent read! I cannot wait to hear the other ladies' perspective on this book. I'll share on Sunday.
July 19, 2012
WHERE THIS ROAD LEADS...
Today I had the opportunity to be interviewed for a press release. And although someone that I was familiar with was the person hosting the interview, I realized I was just as nervous as if I were interviewing for a position within a company. However, as the interview surged forward I found myself becoming relaxed and comfortable and dropping all doubts and fears. The more questions she had for me the more I began to think about my book and my writing in ways that I had not before.
Last night I came to the revelation that I was born to do this...because it fulfills me when I write and create stories. I understand this is one of God's purposes in my life to bring enjoyment to others. I feel settled and as though I have finally come home and found the place that I belong. And when I shared with my husband that this is what I was born to do, he stated to me "I'm glad you're finally listening to me." So with that revelation came another one today...I am going to be okay no matter where this road leads. I was comfortable interviewing and passionate about describing "Reflections of Promises" and for the first time I had true confidence in my work without reservation.
I received a 4 star rating on Amazon this past Sunday, which boosted my confidence and then today I received a couple of more reviews and one person actually read the entire book in one day. What an honor! It truly left me speechless and encouraged me in ways that I cannot describe. So I will close this blog earlier tonight as I go back to another project I have in the works...something about fences and grass...can't reveal too much too early.
Last night I came to the revelation that I was born to do this...because it fulfills me when I write and create stories. I understand this is one of God's purposes in my life to bring enjoyment to others. I feel settled and as though I have finally come home and found the place that I belong. And when I shared with my husband that this is what I was born to do, he stated to me "I'm glad you're finally listening to me." So with that revelation came another one today...I am going to be okay no matter where this road leads. I was comfortable interviewing and passionate about describing "Reflections of Promises" and for the first time I had true confidence in my work without reservation.
I received a 4 star rating on Amazon this past Sunday, which boosted my confidence and then today I received a couple of more reviews and one person actually read the entire book in one day. What an honor! It truly left me speechless and encouraged me in ways that I cannot describe. So I will close this blog earlier tonight as I go back to another project I have in the works...something about fences and grass...can't reveal too much too early.
July 10, 2012
LESSONS LEARNED
Today was a day of reflection about my writing. I have been writing since the age of 12 and it seems that now I cannot recall a time that I did not want to become an author. Actually, yes I can...I never focused on this as a potential career choice until somewhere in my early 20's. And now I can say pursuing this journey is a dream come true and I cannot wait to see where the ride takes me.
I reflected on my stories in two conversations today...one with a co-worker and the other with my young son. I shared with my co-worker how often I found myself apologizing to people that I viewed as a parent figure to me whenever I shared my writings with them because of some of the content and language. I finally have realized I no longer need to apologize for my writing, my creativity comes from within and while it is not a reflection of who I am, it is a reflection of who I am. My writing does not reflect all of my own experiences, but stems from a dream, a thought or an idea. Yet, my writing does reflect who I am in the voice that I use and how I am able to take my imagination and thoughts to different levels to create this artistic form. I have learned not to apologize for my writing.
My son asked about my writing and he wanted to know is it different now than when I was writing in my early 20's. I answered him "of course." I proceeded to explain how we all change with experiences, life and age and it matures our gifts and talents. He asked was my writing better now or then, and I told him that of course it's better now; however, I realized I did not hold back then as I may tend to now. After this conversation I realized I no longer want to hold back, but whatever flows from within like a river I will allow it to take its course. I have learned not to hold back.
My personality has always been spontaneous, whichever way the wind is blowing today is how I will allow my day to flow. I began to see that same attitude in managing my two careers and wanted some sort of organization. Today as I reflected on how I would like to have a smoother flow between my writing consulting career and my authorial career I realized that I can be organized and efficient in managing the two and still be spontaneous. I have learned that my writing is at its best when I allow the spontaneity to surface.
Today I have learned that in my writing to just be me...and it's okay.
I reflected on my stories in two conversations today...one with a co-worker and the other with my young son. I shared with my co-worker how often I found myself apologizing to people that I viewed as a parent figure to me whenever I shared my writings with them because of some of the content and language. I finally have realized I no longer need to apologize for my writing, my creativity comes from within and while it is not a reflection of who I am, it is a reflection of who I am. My writing does not reflect all of my own experiences, but stems from a dream, a thought or an idea. Yet, my writing does reflect who I am in the voice that I use and how I am able to take my imagination and thoughts to different levels to create this artistic form. I have learned not to apologize for my writing.
My son asked about my writing and he wanted to know is it different now than when I was writing in my early 20's. I answered him "of course." I proceeded to explain how we all change with experiences, life and age and it matures our gifts and talents. He asked was my writing better now or then, and I told him that of course it's better now; however, I realized I did not hold back then as I may tend to now. After this conversation I realized I no longer want to hold back, but whatever flows from within like a river I will allow it to take its course. I have learned not to hold back.
My personality has always been spontaneous, whichever way the wind is blowing today is how I will allow my day to flow. I began to see that same attitude in managing my two careers and wanted some sort of organization. Today as I reflected on how I would like to have a smoother flow between my writing consulting career and my authorial career I realized that I can be organized and efficient in managing the two and still be spontaneous. I have learned that my writing is at its best when I allow the spontaneity to surface.
Today I have learned that in my writing to just be me...and it's okay.
