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A Life Less Ordinary

Category: IWSG (page 2 of 7)

Writing Update February 2021 – Doing the Rounds

February 3, 2021 / / 58 Comments

Every first Wednesday of the month, the IWSG (Insecure Writer’s Support Group) engages writers to share their fears, thoughts, progress, struggles, excitement, encouragement, or anything really, about their writing. A different question is posed each month as a writing prompt. Answering it is optional. For February, the question is: “Have you made any friends through the blogosphere?”

This amazing, supportive group of writers was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Today, the co-hosts are Louise – Fundy Blue , Jennifer Lane, Mary Aalgaard, Patsy Collins at Womagwriter, and Nancy Gideon.

My answer to the question

That would be a resounding “yes.” New friendships – virtual and in real life – are the cherries on top when it comes to blogging. I believe every blogger agrees. The conversations that ensue in the comments are what keeps us going. I love those interactions and I have had the pleasure of meeting quite a few bloggers in their own homes, after following their blogs for months or years.

Terri of Second Wind Leisure Perspectives, Janis of Retirementally Challenged, Kathy of Smart Living 365, Donna of Retirement Reflections, Jude of Dr. Sock Writes Here, Duwan of Make Like An Ape Man, fellow IWSG author Ellen of Ellen Jacobson, and Stephanie of SV Cambria come to mind. And if we would have planned our visit to Toronto, Canada a bit better two summers ago, I would also have been able to visit with Debby of D.G Kaye, Writer and Natalie of Natalie the Explorer!

My book news

In my writing update of last month, I hinted at my first one-star review by a certain Lisa G. and how I felt about that. I also mentioned my travel memoir Plunge had been picked by a book club. Believe it or not, there is a correlation; an ironic tidbit I can now share, after my conversation with the sailing women of New England who discussed my book is successfully behind me. I was anxious about that Q&A after the group’s main discussion… Why? Because Lisa G. was the one who picked my book for this book club!

This is what happened: Lisa’s first sentence of the review was “Only reason I finished this book was because it was selected in our book club.” Huh? I was astonished Plunge had already been picked by a book club and wondered which one. As I posted some promo info on a sailing-related Facebook group, another member of this book club told me about their pick and if I would be interested in joining their Zoom event after the main discussion. This is when I found out it was Lisa who instigated the book club and who chose Plunge as its first book! But, she ended up not liking it and making that very clear to me in her review… The Q&A went fine. I was glad she was NOT the moderator. She only asked if I had fun experiences sailing as well. Many! Which I included in my book.

January was an extremely busy month for me. Again. This time with conducting interviews, writing guest posts, preparing a webinar about writing and publishing my book, social media posts, and a phone interview with The Daily News, the local newspaper in Newburyport, Massachusetts. A feature article about me and my alternative lifestyle will be published in their quarterly magazine around mid-March.

Working on promo material in Imperial, CA
Working on promoting Plunge in the desert of Five Palms, CA

Five guest features with me were posted last month: an interview with Marian, a true story (the beginning of chapter one in Plunge) for Hugh, and a Q&A with Jacqui, with Jude, and with Operation Awesome.

More four- and five-star reviews for Plunge showed up on Amazon and Goodreads. The one from Suzanne not only compliments my book and is extremely well written, it also touches upon the essence of Plunge. She really gets what I was trying to achieve with my writing.

My cover made the final round of the “Cover of the Month” contest in January on AllAuthor and finished at #22. Not bad, knowing that about 400 covers were nominated to compete. I can now say I made the “top 25.” 😊 Thanks to everyone for voting.

Plunge ended in the top 25.

The biggest book event I had last month was my “scary” Zoom presentation for the Seven Seas Cruising Association (SSCA). For the first time in my life, I was one of two panelists at a webinar. I created a 25-minute slide show in PowerPoint (also new to me), did some practice runs in my head, and was nervous about this for weeks. The recording of my presentation will be available on YouTube later this week. I will share a link to this free resource about writing and publishing on social media whenever it is live and on Roaming About in my next writing update (first Wednesday of March).

What’s next?

In August 2020, I began working on Plunge non-stop. Weekends, evenings, on the road. When I wasn’t sitting behind my computer, my brain was going 100mph. I felt overwhelmed and stressed. After six months of this (yes, it’s been that long!), I need a little break. But, of course, I have a hard time allowing myself to slow down. Yet, I don’t live in a camper van to work full-time (and for no income) …

So, here’s the compromise: Mark, Maya, and I drove south for a change of scenery and the prospect of February beach time. We are currently in Baja California, Mexico. Internet has been spotty to say the least. For good or for bad, I have had to let go of my daily “upkeep.”

Our campsite in Baja California the day I wrote this post
Breakfast table this morning

This month has a few things in store: reviews of Plunge should start appearing in print, I hope to secure a couple of interviews with influential travel bloggers, I have a phone interview lined up with a major Belgian newspaper (not sure I’m ready to tackle that “market” yet or whether my Dutch is still up to snuff…), and I plan to target a larger audience, somehow. Stay tuned!

I contributed this post to edition #6 of the #weekendcoffeeshare.

Writing Update January 2021 – One Month after Publishing “Plunge”

January 6, 2021 / / 105 Comments

Every first Wednesday of the month, the IWSG (Insecure Writer’s Support Group) engages writers to share their fears, thoughts, progress, struggles, excitement, encouragement, or anything really, about their writing. A different question is posed each month as a writing prompt. Answering it is optional. For January, the question is: ““Being a writer, what frustrates you most when reading other people’s books?”

This amazing, supportive group of writers was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Today, the co-hosts are Ronel Janse van Vuuren , J Lenni Dorner, Gwen Gardner, Sandra Cox, and Louise – Fundy Blue.

My answer to the question

I have little free time to read books, so I am pretty picky about the ones I start and have every intention to finish them. I am also a tad stubborn and hate giving up. So, I never actually dismiss a book. What bugs me most are typos. I find them in every book, even bestsellers, and for some reason (my A-type personality, my background as a teacher?), they annoy me. My eyes are always drawn to them and I have an inexplicable need to fix them. It’s hard to be a perfectionist! 😊

But here’s the rub… The irony… The contradiction… The frustration… I produce typos and grammatical inaccuracies myself! Yet, I don’t find those, because I’m too familiar with the content. If there’s one thing I learned from publishing my own book, it’s that EVERYONE makes those mistakes. And that they are difficult to find, even by professionals. After many rounds of editing and proofreading, Plunge, as it stands right now, published and all, still has three typos in it! Anyone up for a game? One is in the epilogue… It’s so hard to be a perfectionist!

Familiar winter writing surroundings

My book news

Since my travel memoir, Plunge – One Woman’s Pursuit of a Life Less Ordinary, has been published (see last month’s post), I had to change the heading of this section from “My book progress” to “My book news.”

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Writing Update December 2020 – “Plunge” Has Been Published!

December 2, 2020 / / 126 Comments

Every first Wednesday of the month, the IWSG (Insecure Writer’s Support Group) engages writers to share their fears, thoughts, progress, struggles, excitement, encouragement, or anything really, about their writing. A different question is posed each month as a writing prompt. Answering it is optional. For December, the question is: “Are there months or times of the year that you are more productive with your writing than other months, and why?”

This amazing, supportive group of writers was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Today, the co-hosts are Pat Garcia, Sylvia Ney, Cathrina Constantine, Natalie Aguirre, and yours truly (Liesbet @ Roaming About)!

My answer to the question

Talk about a coincidence…

In the beginning of this year, I wondered: “Are there times of the year that writers are more productive than other months? Why would that be?” I emailed Alex, the founder of the IWSG, suggesting he’d pose this question to the group. He replied that it would be the perfect December prompt. So, now I get to – have to, really – answer my own question! 😊

If I’d live in a house or settled environment, I expect winter would be my most productive writing month as it’s colder out and I wouldn’t feel guilty sitting behind the computer all day. But, as you might now, my husband, Mark, our dog, Maya, and I are nomads (and have been for over a decade), so no “settlement” for us. This means I only manage to write whenever it fits the schedule, the situation, the location, and, mostly, the logistics (internet, electricity, no dramas). Which – if you’ve read any of my previous IWSG blogs – is darn sporadic. I write when I can; when I’m not driving, hiking with Maya, sightseeing, working, running errands, fixing the van, catching up on diaries or my inbox, or sleeping…

Our favorite free campsite this year, in Arkansas

Cold and rainy days would be perfect to write, but they cause other issues with all of us cooped up in a 19ft van. By the way, I keep track of our current location in the right column of this blog.

My book progress

After a long road to completion (five years!), my travel memoir Plunge has been published. I announced that feat here, a few days ago.

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Writing Update November 2020 – The Final Push to Publication

November 4, 2020 / / 58 Comments

Every first Wednesday of the month, the IWSG (Insecure Writer’s Support Group) engages writers to share their fears, thoughts, progress, struggles, excitement, encouragement, or anything really, about their writing. A different question is posed each month as a writing prompt. Answering it is optional. For November, the question is: “Why do you write what you write?”

This amazing, supportive group of writers was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Today, the co-hosts are Jemi Fraser, Kim Lajevardi, L.G Keltner, Tyrean Martinson, and Rachna Chhabria.

My answer to the question

Why do I write what I write? The easiest and “best” answer is: because I enjoy it. But there are nuances to this answer, as I constantly write. Pretty much as long as I’m not exploring or sleeping, I write – diaries for myself to look back at in the future and to potentially refer to; my blog to keep family and friends abreast of our adventures; articles to share fascinating destinations and experiences with readers and to make money; emails to stay in touch with loved ones; blog comments to show support and interest in the lifestyle and work of others; comment replies because I appreciate conversations with readers and learning more about them; and my book to follow a passion, inspire, encourage people to think outside the box, and feel a sense of accomplishment.

My book progress

In case you don’t know yet, my husband, dog, and I are back on the road indefinitely. We left our “home base” in Massachusetts about three weeks ago and took our camper van south through a few states and then west through some more. We are currently in Arkansas. I always keep track of our current location in the right column of this blog, if you’re curious about our whereabouts.

As expected, it has been incredibly difficult – insane, really – to keep up progress towards the forthcoming publication of my travel memoir, Plunge. Besides the driving (often on windy, secondary roads), research for fuel and free camping, exercising the dog, running our usual errands (dump station, gas station, laundromat, grocery stores, fixing stuff that breaks, picking up packages,…), emails, blogs, volunteer work for others (a translation for a family member; proofreading for a friend), and my normal jobs, there was/is still heaps to do on my book. I usually work at night and go to bed exhausted, especially after long driving days or short excursions. The chaos surrounding the US election, the approach of the pandemic, and the sudden passing of my aunt haven’t helped my emotional state.

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Writing Update October 2020 – Progress and Insights!

October 7, 2020 / / 65 Comments

Every first Wednesday of the month, the IWSG (Insecure Writer’s Support Group) engages writers to share their fears, thoughts, progress, struggles, excitement, encouragement, or anything really, about their writing.

This amazing, supportive group of writers was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Today, the awesome co-hosts are Jemima Pett, Beth Camp, Beverly Stowe McClure, and Gwen Gardner.

Book progress

Wow. September passed in the blink of an eye. And, wow, what a busy month! I’m finally making good progress on my road to publication. But let me tell you, trying to self-publish your book in a satisfying, professional manner – eBook and paperback – requires heaps of concentration, dedication, time, stress, and the necessary frustration. The learning curve is steep, every decision is important (and there are many), every attempt at research sends you down a rat hole, and everything takes forever.

My title and subtitle

At least a year ago, I settled on the main title for my book: Plunge. Yet, I kept changing and reconsidering the subtitle, placing voting polls on a couple of writer-focused Facebook groups, bugging friends about it, throwing a few options at you, my Roaming About readers. At last, because I really had to (a cover-in-progress ought to have the correct subtitle!), I settled on one. I sure hope I don’t change my mind again. Ladies and gentlemen, the official title of my upcoming travel memoir is Plunge – One Woman’s Pursuit of a Life Less Ordinary.

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Writing Update September 2020 – Final Round of Edits

September 2, 2020 / / 60 Comments

Every first Wednesday of the month, the IWSG (Insecure Writer’s Support Group) engages writers to share their fears, thoughts, progress, struggles, excitement, encouragement, or anything really, about their writing. A different question is posed each month as a writing prompt. Answering it is optional. For September, the question is: “If you could choose one author, living or dead, to be your beta partner, who would it be and why?”

This amazing, supportive group of writers was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Today, the awesome co-hosts are PJ Colando, J Lenni Dorner, Deniz Bevan, Kim Lajevardi, Natalie Aguirre, and Louise – Fundy Blue.

My answer to the question

If I would be an avid book reader – which I wish I was, but there are not enough hours in my day to be one – I would easily be able to answer this question. I don’t even know what my favorite genre is! These years, I read e-books written by friends or used books given to me by friends and family. My TBR list is huge. I do LOVE reading after all.

Without research or much experience, I think I’d like my perfect beta partner to be a travel writer like Bill Bryson, Jon Krakauer, or Paul Theroux. Not only are these men fantastic, intelligent writers, but – from what I remember – they have a good sense of humor as well.

Lots of thinking goes into this road to publication!

My book progress

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Writing Update August 2020 – Let the Rewrites Begin

August 5, 2020 / / 67 Comments

Every first Wednesday of the month, the IWSG (Insecure Writer’s Support Group) engages writers to share their fears, thoughts, progress, struggles, excitement, encouragement, or anything really, about their writing. A different question is posed each month as a writing prompt. Answering it is optional. For August, the question is: “Have you ever written a piece that became a form, or even a genre, you hadn’t planned on writing in? Or do you choose a form/genre in advance?”

This amazing, supportive group of writers was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Today, the awesome co-hosts are Susan Baury Rouchard, Nancy Gideon, Jennifer Lane, Jennifer Hawes, Chemist Ken, and Chrys Fey.

My answer to the question

Easy answer this month: the only genre I ever write in is non-fiction. Although, there have been moments where embellishments and exaggerations almost sneaked in! 😊 I dabbled in poetry years ago as well. All my writing is pretty straightforward and planned.

Missing the river – and nature – already

My book progress

Last month, Mark, Maya, and I went camping for a week and I completed a few editing and writing assignments unrelated to my book. But, a lot happened behind the scenes. Early in July, another rejection letter from a traditional publisher arrived. I have coined it the “the nicest email ever to bum me out.” Here is an excerpt:

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IWSG Writing Update July 2020 – The Idle Co-host

June 30, 2020 / / 110 Comments

Every first Wednesday of the month, the IWSG (Insecure Writer’s Support Group) engages writers to share their fears, thoughts, progress, struggles, excitement, encouragement, or anything really, about their writing. A different question is posed each month as a writing prompt. Answering it is optional. For July, the question is: “There have been many industry changes in the last decade, so what are some changes you would like to see happen in the next decade?”

This amazing, supportive group of writers was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Today, the awesome co-hosts are Jenni Enzor, Beth Camp, Tyrean Martinson, Sandra Cox, and yours truly (Liesbet @ Roaming About). If you click on their names, a link will bring you to their websites.

My answer to the question about industry changes

I’m a relatively new (book) writer, so the changes in the last decade did not affect me. Being unexperienced, I can’t suggest positive changes, but on a personal level I wish that every agent and publisher would have the decency, respect, and time to acknowledge or reply to queries, even if it’s with a “thanks but no thanks”. In an ideal world, constructive criticism would accompany the rejections. 😊

A different question: Do writers ever relax?

Does your mind ever stop spinning, spewing ideas, suggesting outlines, demanding attention? Minds must always be busy. At least, mine is. The only time I don’t think about writing is when I hang out with friends and have a good time. Unless we talk about my travel memoir. There must be a name for this condition. Overthinking? Thought Disorder? Mind Mush? Author’s Obsession? Please enlighten me.

View during a two-week stay in Lincolnville, Maine to help out with home renovations (photo courtesy of Dave Stuhlbarg)

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IWSG Writing Update June 2020 – Hiring an Editor

June 3, 2020 / / 75 Comments

Every first Wednesday of the month, the IWSG (Insecure Writer’s Support Group) engages writers to share their fears, thoughts, progress, struggles, excitement, encouragement, or anything really, about their writing. A different question is posed each month as a writing prompt. Answering it is optional. For June, the question is: “Writers have secrets! What are one or two of yours, something readers would never know from your work?”

This amazing, supportive group of writers was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Today, the co-hosts are Pat Garcia, J.Q. Rose, and Natalie Aguirre!

My answer to the question (What are your secrets?)

I had to think long and hard about this month’s question. Since I’m so “brutally honest” and transparent about what I do, think, and write, I feel there are no secrets… I can be blunt and it’s difficult for me to hide my emotions or opinions. But the truth is that I hate confrontations, offending people, being unlikeable, and injustice. Another secret: I’m sometimes totally fed up with writing, English, and language in general. Luckily, those moments never last long.

We temporarily “moved” to Maine for a change of scenery and focus.

My book progress

After finishing several drafts, involving beta readers, spending a year contacting agents, and adding another five months looking for a traditional publisher (in vain), my travel memoir has reached the next step: the involvement of a professional editor. An editor is someone who improves your book, which can happen on several levels.

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IWSG Writing Update May 2020 – Approaching Editors

May 6, 2020 / / 71 Comments

Every first Wednesday of the month, the IWSG (Insecure Writer’s Support Group) engages writers to share their fears, thoughts, progress, struggles, excitement, encouragement, or anything really, about their writing. A different question is posed each month as a writing prompt. Answering it is optional. For May, the question is: “Do you have any rituals that you use when you need help getting into the ZONE?”

This amazing, supportive group of writers was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Today, the co-hosts are  Feather Stone, Beverly Stowe McClure, Mary Aalgaard, Kim Lajevardi, and Chemist Ken!

My answer to the question (Do you have any rituals when you need help getting into the ZONE?)

Nope. Being a writer and full-time traveler (aka nomad) can be tricky. I don’t have a writing schedule and I don’t have a writing space. No desk for inspirational quotes, a scented candle, or a favorite pen and notebook. No planned writing, as our days vary from sitting an extra day at a campsite to the urge to fix an issue or run errands to driving hundreds of miles to ultimate chaos (aka everything goes wrong).

Home is where the van’s parked

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