On Writing, Books, Authors, & Animals
Finding and Giving Encouragement: A Writer’s Reflection
Apr 05, 2023 by Gayle M Irwin
Everyone needs encouragement, including writers. I've been fortunate to have supporting friends and family members during my career, and whether its kudos for an article or a book, a short story or a novel, I'm grateful to the people who reach out and tell me something I've written has been helpful or inspiring. As a writer, I want to inspire, encourage, educate, and inform; I want to be a source of positivity, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. In this post, I reflect upon being an encourager and receiving encouragement from others.
Changes in Seasons, Changes in Life
Mar 21, 2023 by Gayle M Irwin
Each new season in nature brings change. New seasons in our lives also bring change, some welcome, some not. As birthday #62 approaches, I anticipate many changes, physically, emotionally, and mentally. Some already are taking place. Some changes are easier to embrace than others. I look forward to what spring brings, including flowers and songbirds. I may not like drenching spring rains or heavy spring snows. Yet water makes everything grow. We can all grow through the changes and seasons that life brings as well.
The Sorrows and Joys of Pet Rescue
Mar 07, 2023 by Gayle M Irwin
Pet rescue and adoption brings great joy but can also cause deep sorrow. As a pet caregiver and guardian, many animals have impacted my life. So have the animals I've helped rescue and deliver to their adoptive families. I recently transported a Boston Terrier named Dolly who had been used as a breeding dog then tossed away when she was no longer "of use." Heartbreaking stories like Dolly's, who was only two years old, and my own Jeremiah, also a puppy mill breeding survivor, often turn into stories of joy when people commit to their care. Although we need to say goodbye at some point in time, whether to our own pets or to those in need whom we help, finding the joy in rescue and adoption eases the sorrow. In this blog post, you'll meet some of the dogs and cats who have impacted my life over the years.
Author Collaboration: Comfort, Courage, and Community
Jan 24, 2023 by Gayle M Irwin
Authors may write alone but we are part of a beautiful, large community. We collaborate in many ways, from creation to promotion, and we have others who come alongside us to support and encourage. I'm blessed to be part of the wonderful organization and employment sector called "Author/Writer."
Just Like Seasons, Our Lives Change
May 17, 2022 by Gayle M Irwin
Just as seasons change, so do our lives. Sometimes the change is welcome, like flowers in springtime, while other times we dislike the change that occurs (like a blizzard during winter, threatening driving conditions and the lives of animals or people caught in the storm). Embracing change isn't easy, but accepting what we cannot change, or taking specific steps to implement a needed/wanted change, are ways to cope with life.
Writing from the Heart: Prose with Purpose – Part 2: The Importance of Nature and National Parks
Apr 19, 2022 by Gayle M Irwin
As a writer, I enjoy entertaining, educating, and inspiring readers. One of my favorite subjects to write about is nature, including America's national parks. Nature offers people opportunities for tranquility, pleasure, and reflection. Even if you can't visit a national park, there are ways to enjoy the solace nature provides.
I Love Love
Apr 04, 2022 by Gayle M Irwin
Meet contemporary romance author Anita (A.N.) Verebes from Australia! Her second book, You Can't Hurry Love, released last month. I welcome her to my blog to talk about writing romance and give us insight into her novels that are part of a series she calls The Jukebox Collection.
New Children’s Book Emphasizes the Importance of Kindness
Mar 15, 2022 by Gayle M Irwin
Teaching kindness to kids will help our world become a better place. Children's author and educator Christine Dankert shares her new, soon-to-be-released book with us. Called The Kindness Machine, she uses her words and the illustrations created by her husband, to help children understand the importance of kindness. She's also having a giveaway and a kindness challenge. Read on!
Writing From the Heart: Prose With Purpose – Part 1: Missing and Murdered Indigenous People
Mar 08, 2022 by Gayle M Irwin
On this International Women's Day, let us be mindful of the reasons to celebrate the journey of women, yet also mindful of the many missing, murdered, enslaved, and suffering. I recently wrote two articles about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) and People (MMIP), and through this writing from the heart and with purpose, I gained greater knowledge and awareness -- I seek to share that. Read on.
Discovering Authors and Romance Stories Featuring Pets
Feb 24, 2022 by Gayle M Irwin
If you enjoy sweet romance or cozy mystery stories that feature pets amid the pages, you'll enjoy the authors and books I highlight in this blog post! Included at the end is a link to a Book Funnel promotion of such stories with books on sale through March 20, 2022. Read on!
Celebrating Love: Friends, Family, Partners, and Pets
Feb 09, 2022 by Gayle M Irwin
Valentine's Day often brought sorrow my way, and so I dreaded the so-called holiday for many years. One time I received a lovely bouquet of flowers; I thought my then-semi-boyfriend had sent them, and so I called to thank him. "It wasn't me," he said. "Guess you have a secret admirer." When I told a friend of mine, she said, "I sent them. I know this time of year is hard for you, and I doubted HE would send you anything, so I decided I would." My first, but not only, Galentine's gift. There are many ways to celebrate loved ones, and love, in our lives, from friends and family to partners and pets. Celebrate love in all its forms, not just romance.
Dreaming of Vacations and Escaping with Fun Books!
Jan 25, 2022 by Gayle M Irwin
With winter in full swing, those of us who enjoy romance stories continue to look for new books. Many of us also dream of warmer places, whether making travel plans for a winter destination that's warmer or dreaming of a vacation we'll take during the summer. Deadwood, South Dakota can be a destination for the readers of romance and other books. Some of those attending authors release a collaborative project this winter, so grab a hot beverage and take a read of this blog post to learn more!
What You Need Is Grit, True Grit: Getting to Where You Want to Be
Jan 11, 2022 by Gayle M Irwin
A New Year has arrived, and with the dawning of 2022, many of us make resolutions and set new goals, whether for our physical bodies, emotional health, spiritual development, or career or life dreams. To accomplish any of that, we need perseverance, also known as 'grit.' Find encouragement and resources for your New Year and new self in this, my first blog of 2022! Read on!!
