Fun Ideas for Family Reunions

In case you have not noticed already, I am very interested in food. I could talk about food all day long and not get bored. It is only natural, then, that occasionally when I sit down to write about genealogy or some other topic, I invariably end up writing about food. Today I thought of a fun idea for taking care of the menu planning aspect of a family reunion. A pot-luck is a great way to learn about your family history while enjoying delicious food. Each guest or family group can bring a dish that reflects the family’s heritage … Continue reading

A Passion for Rhodesians: An Interview with Author Maris Soule

I’m kicking myself for not getting my tail in gear and publishing this interview last week. Posting romance (and mystery) author Maris Soule’s interview on Valentine’s Day would have been mighty apropos. Ah well, I goofed. But…at least it’s still being posted in February, the month of love. That works. What does Maris love? (Besides writing.) Well, I’ll give you a hint. They’re often furry, four-legged, and what us other pet lovers love…our animals! Below she tells us about what kind of animals grace both her life and her work. Courtney Mroch: What kind of things do you write about? … Continue reading

Host a Christmas Cookie Exchange!

Have you ever been invited to a Christmas cookie exchange? Some people just call it a cookie swap, but whatever you call it, it’s a cool concept. You meet with others and bring along your favorite cookie recipe, enough ingredients to make several batches, and any utensils and pans you need. Then, everyone bakes a set number of cookies and trades with each other. You’ll have a good time baking, chatting, and laughing together. When you leave, you’ll be armed with an assortment of wonderful homemade Christmas cookies. You not only have a nice variety without all the trouble, but … Continue reading

Have You Been Introduced to Amazon.Com?

Probably the most innovative website I’ve ever encountered. Amazon.com is truly unique and definitely a one stop shopping place for the frugal of society who love to read or need a book for one thing or another. Recently I have been spending a great deal of time on Amazon.com. And being the frugal gal that I am, it’s the perfect place for me. I have no particular problem with purchasing something used, and will try desperately to find whatever I need used, if it can be found. Among garage sales and yard sales, flea markets, clothing consignment shops, resale furniture … Continue reading

Freelance Writing: Leads for Developing Clips

If you’re trying to establish yourself as a new writer, you need to develop clips. The term is an old school one, a short form of clippings. A similar term is tear sheets. Clips are simply copies of (or links to) published articles that you send an editor as examples of your writing ability. So, how can you get some clips? You might be tempted to write free of charge for publications or websites that ask you to work for nothing but “exposure.” It is unfortunate that many venues take advantage of new writers this way. They pay everyone else … Continue reading

Paper Bag Albums part three

Would you like to make your own? It’s easy and it’s fun. Just choose your topic, plan out what you want to say and then follow these easy steps: Collect five paper lunch bags of the same size and color. These will make the base blank pages of your album. Arrange the bags in a stack. You need to alternate the open and closed ends. This helps keep the book even on both sides. Next, fold the bags in half and crease. Use a bone folder to really crease the center. Bind the bags about a quarter inch from the … Continue reading