Ally Aldridge's Blog, page 43
January 26, 2019
My best kept writing secret of last year (Happily Ever Author)
I discovered this group through a connection I made on Instragram. I am so pleased that I decided to check it out and join.
About Pagan Malcolm
She is a YA Fiction writer that has published several books. She is also the founder of Paperback Kingdom and Facebook group Happily Ever Author.
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About the Facebook groups
Happily Ever Author is a group run by Pagan on Facebook. She posts prompts to get authors to socialise and share what they are working on and to set goals. She sometimes gives prizes (I got a YouTube guide) and sometimes she promotes her books and other group (Paperback Kingdom).
Paperback Kingdom is a Facebook group linked to services she offers such a course, 1:1 coaching, etc. I can’t tell you much more as I’ve not paid for the additional content.
About #NewYearNewNovel
Pagan set her Happily Ever Author group members a challenge in December to start doing the prep work for a new novel in 2019. This was supported with videos where she shared her tips and techniques for doing this, from how to come up with a story idea, outling, character development, etc. These were really useful and I would like to watch them again.
Although, all I have written is the opening to my story (Scarlet House), I do feel more prepared and clearer about what I will be writing. I can’t wait to finish my current editing project so I can start on a brand new novel for 2019.
Have you discovered any awesome writer groups online?
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January 22, 2019
Two year blogging anniversary!
The other day, I got my badge notifiying me that I have been running my blog now for two years!
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Here are the top five lessons I have learnt:
Focus on one blog
I started off with three blogs, one for writing, one for beauty and one to share it all. Now, I have one blog. And, it is so much more easier. Don’t restrict yourself, write whatever you are passionate about – chances are, other people are too. I now have the problem that I have so many ideas and not enough time to write it all!
Schedule content
I’ve learnt the importance of having a content schedule and using the ‘schedule’ feature in Word Press. This has enabled me to ensure that I am delivering a variety of content and keeps me accountable to a regular timetable.
Link back
When I started my blog , I didn’t have many followers. There are posts that I think would benefit my readers but didn’t reach the audience. By linking back, I can refer people to old content that is still relevant. I’m also looking at reworking some of these to give fresh content.
Use images
Images make your posts stand out. It is great if you are able to produce your own images but it is not always possible. I have discovered Unsplash.com a great royalty free website that has loads of free photos for you to use. Another great site I use all the time is Canva.com as they have brilliant templates to make blog titles, instagram pictures, etc.
Share to social media
At first, I was quite shy to tell people that I was blogging. I still am shy about it but I am getting better. Whenever a post goes live, it automatically shares to Twitter and Goggle+. In addition, I often post to Instagram a prompt to tell my followers what new content is on the blog.
I am still learning everyday, but I love blogging and I am getting more confident with it. Have you got any tips for me?
If you like this, you may also enjoy:
Blogging learnt the hard way
My new posting schedule
Free resources for blogging
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January 13, 2019
I need your help!
Every other Monday, I like to share an article by another blogger. This article is usually something I enjoyed myself and think my readers will enjoy too!
I worry that with my sporadic chances to read that I may miss some good content, so if you feel your blog is the sort of thing I would like, please comment to help prompt me to take a look.
I love featuring articles on:
Writing (ideally, tips or advice on fiction)Reading (ideally YA or Children’s fiction)Beauty (ideally, organic or cruelty free) Parenting (any useful advice or tips)Blogging (share lessons learned)
If you get featured, my followers will see your article and link to your blog. I will also tweet it too.
Please don’t be shy…
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January 12, 2019
What to watch – Shows with writers in
Here is a pretty diverse list of shows that feature writers from publishers to bloggers and everything imbetween.
You (2018)
https://youtu.be/cKOhno0IMpA
This show is a creepy love story from a serial killing stalkers point of view. The narrator describes what he can see in third person which feels unnatural and works really effectively.
This show made the list because the MC owns a bookstore and is stalking an aspiring author. The aspiring author is portrayed really well. She is struggling financial and often procrastinates instead of writes – eek.
Younger (2015)
https://youtu.be/VJNsvZj5-9w
Liza is in her 40s, her daugher is off travelling and her husband has left her. After putting her career on hold to raise her family, she finds returning to work impossible as everyone thinks she is too old, so Liza pretends she is 26 and lands a job.
This show made the list because it is hillarious and the industry Liza works in, is publishing.
The Peanuts Movie (2015)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQpUQPrAfQM
The movie is about Charlie Brown trying to win the heart of the little red hair girl that has moved to town whilst Snoopy is working on a script.
Okay, this is a movie but there is a Snoopy TV Series but I’ve not been lucky enough to watch it. This made the list because there is no other cartoon about a scriptwrtier dog that has quite as many memes as Snoopy, thanks to his cartoon strip.
Episodes (2011)
https://youtu.be/z4yH0mI-yJs
This British comedy follows to Script writers that move to LA following their big break.
This made the list becasue the two main MCs are scriptwriters. In true British style it is painfully honest and the pair will find that things don’t go quite as they planned as things are changed and pressure is put on them… but delivered in a funny way.
Pretty Little Liars (2010)
https://youtu.be/SUO8B47XtGY
I absoultley loved this TV Show. It is about a group of friends that are terrorised by an anonymous person going by the name of ‘A’.
This show made the list because two of the main characters are writers. Aria eventually becomes a publisher and helps her fiance Ezra with his novel. There are a few occasions that I felt the show was unrealistic but I didn’t care because the story lines are gripping, complex (sometimes I did get lost) and these teens are so cool.
The Vampire Diaries (2009)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BmVmhjjkN4E
A school girl falls in love with a vampire and this brings a whole lot of drama into her life and others living in Mystic Fall.
This show made the list because the MC, Elena, writes a diary – is it a stretch to say it is an autobiography.
Gossip Girl (2007)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPKvFVYEOKg
An anoymous reporter shares gossip about the elite social crowd’s drama. She posts online using the psydemo going by the pen name of Gossip Girl.
This made the list, not because of the anonymous reporter but because one of the MCs, Dan Humphrey, dreams of being a writer. Not only that but Nate Archibald works at the Spectator for a short stint.
Desperate House Wives (2004)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rAbKBUJ4NRY
This TV series follows the lives of women living in Wisteria Lane following the death of one of their neighbours/friends.
It is probably a bit of a strech to add this to the list because Susan who during the series gets a job as a Children’s book illustrator is never really seen working, except when she is an internet ‘model’.
Jonathon Creek (1997)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTz9CKoLXp0
This British crime investigation series involves a jornalist working with a magician to solve unusual crimes.
This made the list because the jounalist is recording and writing about the unusual crimes that they have worked on and solved. There is also some light comedy between the pair.
Sex and the City (1998)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROKDX-tYRNI
The show follows a group of friends living in New York and trying to find love.
This made the list because MC Carrie Bradshaw writes column for a magazine.
*****
Happy Birthday
And, I’d like to wish a Happy Birthday to Sabrina Sheldon of Hustling Writers Community (Facebook group). She set group members a 100 word writing challenge for her birthday.
When I told her, I had written this blog post she asked if Castle (2009) made the list. Unfortunately, it hadn’t as I’ve never watched it. It’s now on my ‘to watch list’.
Have you seen it it or any of the shows I listed? Can you think of any other shows I’ve missed?
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January 7, 2019
Literary dates calendar
As a writer, I wish there was a resource with links to literary competitions, online events and festivals where I can copy the content to my own diary. But, I’m yet to find one.
So, I created my own. And, I am going to share this with you.
Google calendar
I created a public Google calendar so you can see everything I have added. If you want to copy an event then you too will need a google calendar (it is free with a free Google email account).
I hope you find this resource useful. If you notice my calendar is missing any events that you feel ought to be included, please comment with the link. I’ll then check it out and add it to the calendar to help other writers out.
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January 3, 2019
My gifted makeup haul!
I am one lucky girl. My husband spoilt me at Christmas to lots of makeup from my wish-list.
Here is what I got:
Two eyeshadow palettes from Tarte:
The differences between them are explained below but I wanted to cover what I love about both of them, just once.
The palettes feel very strong and sturdy. I’m not sure how deep the pans go, but potentially they could be very deep.
I love the big mirror in the lid. I think it slightly magnifies my face so I can see myself more easily.
Both palettes come with a leaflet giving two example looks that can be created and instructions on how to achieve it.
Tarte: Rainforest of the sea eyeshadow palette volume II
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This palette is able to create everyday looks or dramatic evening looks. As I don’t get out much in the evenings, I’m choosing to use the darker shades to softly line my eyes. There’s a mix of matte and shimmer shadows.
Tarte: Rainforest of the sea has highlighting eyeshadow palette vol III
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This palette has lighter shades and good for daytime looks only. All the shades have a shimmer. Although, I don’t find this palette as exciting, I do feel it is more practical for my lifestyle and will get used more.
Tarte: Lights, camera, lashes 4-in-1 mascara
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So far, I am getting on alright with this mascara. Any mascara makes my lashes look better (or at least visable). It hasn’t irritated my eyes or left smudges or flakes under my eyes. I like it.
Tarte: Rainforest if the sea radiance drops
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I had no idea what this was when I added it to my wishlist but it’s a best seller and I was curious. I’m still not sure even now I have it – lol.
It comes out on a pipette and is an oil. The oil has a gold shimmer to it. Is it skincare, makeup or a hybrid of the two?
I’ve been dabbing it on like a highlighter and like the effect. It makes my skin look healthier like I am glowing.
Two Axiology lipsticks
Before I go into the shades I want to tell you why I love these lipsticks.
Firstly, they contain no harmful ingredients. They do not support animal testing at all. They are certified vegan and don’t use palm oil.
I love the lipstick cases. You push the base and they pop up. It’s so satisfying! They look beautiful and are recyclable.
Axiology: Lipstick – The Goodness
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This was my most used lipstick of 2018 and it ran out. I’m so glad to have it back. I’m sad I caught the tip in my excitement getting it out and now already looks used.
This lipstick is a shimmery nude shade. It’s just for lips but I like putting it on my cheeks too as a highlighting blush. It is very pretty and natural.
Axiology: Lipstick – Worth/Radiance
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This will be my lipstick on 2019! It is an orangey red shade on me and looks gorgeous. It’s quite subtle and sadly doesn’t last long so needs to be reapplied but it is such a pretty colour. I love it.
Nui Cosmetics: Liquid foundation – Intense Kanapa
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This is my favourite organic foundation. I apply it with my fingers or a sponge. You can build it up easily to get the coverage you need and has a nice smell to it.
Would I recommend?
Yes! My husband has done really well. I am so happy with this haul which will keep me going during maternity leave.
Everything feels good on my skin, doesn’t irritate and looks awesome. I feel excited to do my makeup and play with my new products.
Have you tried any of the above or get any new beauty products for Christmas?
If you enjoyed this you might like:
My top 10 beauty products of 2018!
Happy #LittleMermaidDay – Check out these mermaid beauty products!
Why subscribe to Skin Organics beauty box
Why was Iceland’s advert banned?
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December 31, 2018
Goals for the year ahead – 2019
I’m excited and motivated for 2019 and the goals I am setting. There is a lot I wish to achieve so staying motivated will be key to keeping on track.
Writing
Jewel of the sea (formerly Drift)
First Quarter: Another edit
Second Quarter: Query agents
Third Quarter: (if no bite) Self Publish
Fourth Quarter: Promote novel
Diamond in the sky (formerly Glide)
First Quarter: Finish novel
Second Quarter: Edit novel
Third Quarter: Query agents
Fourth Quarter: (if no bite) Self Publish
Hunted
First Quarter: N/A
Second Quarter: Finish novel
Third Quarter: Edit novel
Fourth Quarter: Query agents
Scarlet House
First Quarter: Start novel #NewYearNewNovel
Second Quarter: N/A
Third Quarter: N/A
Fourth Quarter: N/A
Article Writing
All year: Submit to Little Mum Mag & to Ginger Parrot
Social Media
Blog: Keep up with two posts a week
Blog: Start including links to my previous posts within new posts
Blog: Rework old posts to give new life & build advice collections
Blog: Aim to read 6 books a year (or more)
Instagram: Try to post three photos/videos a week
Twitter: Take part in Twitter events like #PitMad or #AskAnna
NaNo/NaPo: Take part in challenges that don’t distract from my overall goals
YouTube: Try making a video once each quarter, working towards once a month
Personal
First Quarter: Get my bodacious body back (diet & exercise programme to achieve a more healthy me)
First to second Quarter: Working together course (be able to effectively support my sons school)
Third Quarter: Enjoy the summer & making memories
Fourth Quarter: Return to work (will be requesting part-time hours but may have to work full-time)
All year: Scrapbooking (my son is now 5y old and I still haven’t started his. I need to do this).
All year: Crochet – I learnt to crochet in 2018 and if I don’t want to lose the skill I need to keep practicing.
All year: Journal – I’ve always wanted to get into it as I love the creative way of expressing yourself and being organised.
Development
Working together course: See above
Write story books for children course: finish course
Write romance stories: start & finish stories
2019
I know it will be hard as my children will always come first. If they need me (i.e poorly) then I’ll lose my evenings when I’m most able to work on my goals. But, I won’t give up.
I’ll check in on my goals through out the year and adapt them when necessary. For example, if I got an agent, whatever they need me to do would take priority. Returning to work will be an adjustment and if it’s too much I may have to lower my ambitions so they are manageable.
Any progress is better than nothing at all. I often focus on what I haven’t done so checking in on myself is actually quite rewarding. It makes me acknowledge what I have achieved and adjust my plans so I am pushing myself sufficiently without killing myself.
Do you set personal goals or new year resolutions? What are your plans for 2019?
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December 29, 2018
Reflecting on 2018
The year is coming to an end and as I look back I am really pleased with what I have achieved.
What I used from 2017
I ended 2017 by reflecting on what I had learnt in my first year of blogging.
When I look back at my Reflecting on 2017 post, I still use a lot of the tools and tricks I learnt in my first year of blogging.
Things I no longer do is embed Instagram pictures within my blog posts as they no longer seem to work. I also stopped using LoCal.
I am disappionted that I didn’t put what I learnt about creative writing into practice. Writing blog posts feels easier than writing a novel as I can dip in and out more easily, whereas when I write a novel I like to get into the chapter and write a chunk – nowadays, I struggle to find the time for that.
Progress towards 2018 Goals
I have acheieved 82% of the goals I set at the start of 2018. I’ve also achieved goals that I hadn’t anticipated such as article writing for an online magazine. I particpated in NaPoWriMo (poetry writing) which is outside my confort zone and really stretched and challenged me. I also hit my NaNoWriMo word count goal.
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Personal life
I’ve also felt positive about my personal achievements this year. I completed my CIPD HR Diploma which is a professional qualification. I gave birth to my beautiful daughter Aria Rose.
I’ve also been making the most of my materntiy leave by being actively involved in activities at my son’s school such as parent phonic classes and parent maths classes (so I can better support him with his homework). I have also been making it to the Stay & Play sessions. I am out attending groups with my baby and making new mum friends for her and we are currently doing baby massage classes together.
I have really enjoyed including some blogs posts about my personal life and will continue to do so next year.
What is in store for 2019?
Well more personal posts for sure but I need to set some goals to get my focus back on my fiction writing as getting published is my lifelong ambition. Check back early January to see the goals I set to keep progressing.
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December 26, 2018
Winter literary festivals
Earlier this year, I wrote a blog post listing literary festivals taking place in the UK throughout the UK that have caught my eye. To read the full list, please click here.
This post is to remind you of those taking place this Winter.
It looks like December and January are a downtime for book festivals so this list starts and ends with February.
February
Verve Poetry Festival
Date: 14-17 February 2019
Location: Birmingham
Tickets: Fee (£4 to £35)
“A four day festival of world class poetry and spoken word, with readings, performances, and workshops taking place in the heart of Birmingham.”
Faversham Literary Festival
Date: 21 to 24 February 2019
Location: Faversham
Tickets: Various
“Our inaugural festival in 2018 was a great success with a line-up including Man Booker-shortlisted author Deborah Levy, journalist Martin Bell, psychogeographer Iain Sinclair and performance poet John Hegley. We featured over thirty events with writers from Kent and further afield, as well as writing workshops, poetry events, and more.
We hope you will join us again in February 2019. We have another exciting programme of events and activities planned for book lovers of all ages and persuasions, featuring author talks, discussions, creative workshops and spoken word events.”
Limerick Literary Festival
Date: 22 to 24 February 2019
Location: Limerick
Tickets: TBC
“The Festival, formerly known as Kate O’Brien Weekend, is this year celebrating its 35th edition. The event continues to honour the life and works of the Limerick author, while attracting prominent participants from all over the world. Building on this significant history, the Limerick Literary Festival seeks to promote Limerick nationally as a place of literary excellence and to provide a platform where readers can meet their favourite authors and other readers.”
If you like this post, you may also like:
Uk Literary Festival tour dates
NaNo Progress Diary (week four)
More than 10 Extravagant Ultimate Gifts for writers
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December 19, 2018
My top 10 beauty products of 2018!
So to wrap up the year, I am having a look back at what my favourite beauty products were. These are the ones that got all used up and needed to be replaced.
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This shade of lipstick gives my lips a natural but better look. In addition, when I am in a rush, I have applied it to my cheeks as a highlighter/blush and think it looks awesome.
In addition, I love the tube of these lipsticks. You click the bottom to pop the lipstick up.
Nui Costmetics Foundation Intense Kanapa
This foundation is brilliant. Not only is it all the good stuff and none of the bad stuff but it is also a really effective foundation. You can build up the coverage until you are happy and it has a really nice smell.
Pacifica Beauty Multi Mineral BB Cream
This can be used as a primer or just as a light product to even out your skin tone. I use it everyday for the school run as it gives a really natural look and is light on my skin.
Benecos Natural Eyeshadow – Rose Quartz
This eyeshadow is a lovely rose gold. It gives a slight shimmer but isn’t over powering. Its a nice natural everyday shade.
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Simply Redheads Henna Shampoo/Conditioner
I’ve had my eye on this shampoo for ages and glad that I finally gave it a go. This shampoo makes my hair feel so good. I was seriously impressed by the customer service in answering my queries.
I bought two massive bottles and they have lasted ages so they are really reasonably priced. It is almost empty and I know I will have to repurchase.
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A.S Apothacary – Wild Beauty Balm Concerntrate
Whenever my skin needs a little TLC, I reach for this moisturiser. It comes out in a yellow colour but it is full of so much goodness and my skin really soaks it up.
Butter Bar Soapery Body Polish
As someone who finds no joy in body scrubs as they are scatchy and nasty, this one has truly converted me. It scrubs the skin but it is so rich in moisture your skin doesn’t feel raw afterwards. I look forward to using it as it is a real treat.
Roques O’Neil Therapie Bath Detox Salts
I saved these salts for after labour to help with healing and loved them. I look forward to when I can find time to have a bath to enjoy these are they are a real treat.
NK Naturals Delicate Healing Cleansing Balm
Whenever hormones makes my skin play up, this cleanser brings it back to being balanced. It is so gentle I have even used it to remove eye makeup. I like the strong honey smell but that might not suit everyone.
BAO Skincare Apricot Rose Face Polish
I never thought I would trust a scrub on my face but this polish is really gentle and feels like a treat on my skin.
What I want in 2019
I discovered a lot of the above products through my Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box. If I can afford to subscribe again then I definitley will.
Other than replacing the above products when they run out, I would be interested in trying out other products by the brands.
I also enjoyed using a lot of lip balms, body oils and facial spritz but although I loved using them, I wasn’t in love with one that it was my most favourite. I think in 2019, I would like to try more of those products to find the one.
Have you tried any of the above products? Have you got any recomendations for me.
If you liked this post then you may enjoy:
Why subscribe to Skin Organics beauty box
Review product from my Naturismo box
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