How many author interviews have you read where the interviewer asks the interviewee, "What one piece of advice do you have for a new writer?" And the one asked usually always gives some form of the same answer--never give up. Be persistent. Work consistently. Because, honestly, how many ways can this question be answered? For a different view, take a look at this article: My Best Writing Advice

This fun research link is to the Irish blessing page on Island Ireland web site. However, this web site has a wealth of information regarding the emerald isle.
Island Ireland: Irish Blessing & Prayers

Do you find the rhythm of your story easily, or does the beat sometimes feel off? Do you barrel right through some scenes only to find others sluggish and unmoving? Here's an interesting article on finding the right pace for your story:

Techniques to Establish Pacing

For a quick an easy reference, author Joanna Waugh, has an etymology of expressions complied on her web site. This list of expressions has been invaluable to me when searching for the right words for a new character. I hope this link is as helpful to you as it's been for me.

Joanna Waugh Expressions

What about you, do you have favorite research and writing you revisit often?

How many of you read about the snafu between Amazon and Macmillan over the weekend? The whole issue revolved around the $9.99 price point Amazon had set for e-book's. Amazon has ruled the e-book market until the I-Pad came along to finally shake their stronghold over the industry. With the emergence of the I-Pad, Macmillan now had a bargaining chip on their side and Macmillan didn't blink.

Nathan Bransford, Literary Agent for the Curtis Brown Agency sums it up much better than I can on his blog. He has some really great information there.

You can read all about: The Kindle Missile Crisis

And: What Should an E-book Cost?

Today is Groundhog day. Do you wonder, as I do, how this furry little animal got his job as a weather forecaster? The tradition dates back 123 years to 1887. It shares similarities with Candlemas Day (also celebrated today).

According to the folklore, once the groundhog emerges from his burrow and fails to see its shadow, winter will end soon and it will leave the burrow. If the shadow is visible, the groundhog will return to the burrow and winter will continue for six more weeks.

A tiny hill called Gobblers Knob in Punxsatawney, Pennsylvania holds the largest Groundhog Day celebration, but celebrations take place all over the U.S. and Canada.

For more groundhog lore visit Groundhog Day

Are you serious about meeting your writing goals? Then check out Write or Die by Dr. Wicked. Depending on the settings you choose, stop writing and only seconds later it will gobble up your words. If you don't want to lose your wordcount for the day, you will continue writing until you have met your goal. Genius!

For a minimal fee, you can purchase a desktop copy or use the online version for free. Free is always good.

Do you realize all the knowledge available to you with just a click of your mouse? It’s mind-boggling when you think about it. You can Google anything now days, and a wealth of information on topics such as DNA forensics, biochemistry, human biology to 19th century fashions and hairstyles, are right at your fingertips to assist you in your writing—not to mention--writing articles galore!

Cami's Books is one of those sites. She posts reviews on a wide variety of books and various blog tours. Check it out, I think you’ll enjoy it.