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I love Fridays…
The work week is coming to a close. The weekend’s so close, you can practically taste it. And THIS weekend we have the Super Bowl, which is like the Oscars for most red-blooded American males.
What better Friday could there be for a PIMP or PROMOTE-fest?!!?
Thasss right…today, I’m opening up the comments for YOU to share whatever pimp-y or promotion-y sorts of things you’ve got circling your mind.
Start revving those engines for the comments section!
Remember PIMP = stuff about you
PROMO = grooviness about someone else
I’ll start us off with some PROMO. You know I like to share. Well, today I’m providing y’all with a list of some of the wonderful magical posts that have rocked my world over the last month or so. Below are posts that made me laugh, opened my eyes, touched my heart, solved a problem or taught me something cool.
p.s. If you’ve seen me commenting on your blog, I already think you’re magic. I’m looking to introduce you to some new fun places. 🙂
Laughter and Informational Magic:
- Did you grow up with Dungeons & Dragons? Click here for info on a new D&D release.
- This is about the funniest thing I’ve seen on a blog EVER – thank you to Charlie Holmberg for turning me on to this post: Striking a Pose (Women & Fantasy Covers)
Inspirational Magic:
- August McLaughlin’s deeply moving post, Does Dirt Have Calories? My Story
- Ingrid Schaffenburg had me at her logline (Threadbare Gypsy Soul) but DO read her post, The Act of Commitment. It’s a lovely pep talk.
Writing Magic:
- I loved Fae Rowen’s idea of Using Chinese Personality Elements in Your Writing. Do you know what your element is?
- If your pitch/query/book jacket blurb is giving you fits (yep, I’m talking to you, Myndi), I highly recommend this post by Lydia Sharp.
Publishing Magic:
- Have you ever wanted to know what Amazon/Kindle’s goals are? VERY interesting talk, and important facts for every writer to know. This video is worth your 20 mins.
- Emlyn Chand has a new series on What It Takes To Be Successful as an Indie Author – she did this as a case study using Terri Giuliano Long. There’s also a Part 2.
Social Media/Techie Magic:
- Jane Friedman’s post on the 3 Numbers That Matter To Your Platform.
- Have you every wondered how other people get those cool word trackers on their sidebars? Wonder no more! I bring you 6 Word Count Meters & Trackers for the Word Count Obsessed by Arachne Jericho.
I could easily name 10 or 20 more, but I want to hear more about what’s been rocking YOUR world lately. Fill me in on the latest and greatest excitement in your corner of the universe. Enquiring minds always want to know here at More Cowbell!
Jenny
Jenny Hansen's Blog 
Hey, Jenny! Great mash-up. I’d like to promo Gene Lempp, esp. his fabulous series “Designing from the Bones,” which explores myths and archaeological mysteries and proposes fictional uses for them. Fascinating stuff. Here’s his most recent one, on crystal skulls: http://genelempp.wordpress.com/2012/02/01/designing-from-bones-seeing-through-the-skulls-eyes/
Thanks,
Kathy
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Ooooh – I love Gene’s Designing from Bones series! And don’t forget to tell people that your Watercooler Wednesdays moved over to Tuesday Terrific. 🙂
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Thanks, Kathy 🙂 Love your Mystery Mondays, always full of history and fun insights.
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This is a lot of links and now I will go have my read at them.
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LOL…thanks, Brian. Happy to give you reading. 🙂
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Love when you do this Jenny, I always find some fun new people and posts! Brinda Berry has a cool blog and not only does she have a YA blog-hop going on (w/ prizes), but a little while ago she had a fantastic post on Kinetic Typography, very cool! http://www.brindaberry.com/1/post/2011/12/kinetic-typography-at-its-best.html
And I’ll pimp myself too, I’m having a killer blog tour and giveaway contest at http://jessicaaspen.com, come check out my calendar and follow the link to enter!
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Ooooooh, Kinetic Typography sounds exceptionally groovy!!! Thanks, Jessica. 🙂
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Wonderful links, Jenny, thanks for sharing. I’d like to promo two artists, one a painter, Jan Dobbs, at http://www.wix.com/janrdobbs/art, and one a photographer (and my nephew), Michael Poehlman at http://www.michaelpoehlman.com.
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That’s what I’m talking about, Elizabeth!! Branch out into entire new arty mediums. This is fabulous. 🙂
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Love all the fabulousness you pointed us to! Amazing and super useful!
I’m with Kathy on Gene’s series – it’s absolutely ahhhmazing!!!
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I saw that someone promo-ed you further down…there’s awesome-sauce ALL over the place today!
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Thanks, Natalie. I just love going to your site, it makes me happy everytime, just so fun and colorful 🙂
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PROMO:
Kristen Lamb is putting her butt skin in the open air to help fellow writers: http://warriorwriters.wordpress.com/2012/01/27/3-steps-to-freedom-grab-hold-of-your-brilliant-future/
Janice Hardy has an amazing blog: The Other Side of the Story that I learn something new from with every post:
http://blog.janicehardy.com/
Have a great weekend, everyone!
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Gotta second both of those promos. I learn something from each blog post that Kristen and Janice put out there.
Thanks!
Liv
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Not her “butt skin”??!! You slay me, Laura! I discovered Janice Hardy a while back and love her posts but I haven’t subscribed yet. I think this is my message from the universe to do so. 🙂
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I’ll take a blog party over football any day! This one is an absolute treat. 🙂 Thanks for including my post! Touched that you found it inspiring.
I LOVED your post about your mother… Read it last night and doubt I’ll forget it. I also dug Ellie Ann’s award-fest, Natalie Hartford’s fartquilism hilarity and the funny comments on my maxi pad post which taught me a valuable lesson: If one wants/needs to laugh, post an embarrassing story!
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Thanks, August…so glad others enjoyed reading that as much as I enjoyed writing it! I have not read your maxi pad post, which means that I have to scoot on over to your place now!!
Your post that I included was one of the best blogs I’ve read EVER. And I mean that. Was it long? Yes. Was it worth every moment? Yes. Should it be published with LOTS of fanfare? Absolutely, yes.
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Very cool!
Okay, I’m pimpin here! I did my first ever interview with author Diane Capri! Check out this post. It rocked the blogosphere as I am now known as the new Barbara Walters, Oprah Winfrey, or as someone asked, “Do you secretly work for the Today Show?” I’m just sayin.
So check out “An Interview with Diane Capri”! at http://www.karenmcfarland,com
Now to promote. Again I would have to talk about Diane Capri’s new Mystery/Suspense novel, “Don’t Know Jack”. The first of the “Finding Reacher” Series. Here’s the link: http://www.dianecapri.com
I would like to invite ya’ll to the party. You know what they say. Better late than never. I happen to know that there is still some Champagne left since I did expect some late-comers. We’re having a lot of fun and there were prizes. And I might have found the start of another career!
Who knew? See ya there! 🙂
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How exciting that I can say, “I knew Karen ‘way back when’…” (you know, before you get famous and all!)
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I’d like to pimp two new horror authors I’ve discovered: Black Crouch and Matt Hults. I’ve been getting a big kick out of reading both their work lately. (I know you don’t do horror, Jenny. I thought maybe some of your readers might be interested, though.)
I’d also like to pimp Amber West’s blog. She’s been having a recipe day on Tuesdays. I’ve tried her recipes, and they’re good. In addition to that, she’s been experimenting with chemical free house cleaning, and she’s got some interesting ideas. Here’s her link: http://wosushi.wordpress.com/author/wosushi/
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I can’t do horror movies. But I have been known to read some horror books, so this is awesome. What do you love about their work? I might have to introduce them to my Kindle…
Thanks, Catie!!
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Jenny, I like Blake Crouch because he writes serial killers–and psychopaths in general–better than any author I’ve seen in a long time. His images will stick with me a long time. Sometimes he offers his book Serial as a free download.
Matt Hults is a relatively new author, and all I’ve read by him is a collection of short stories. In this collection, there are two very different zombie stories, a vampire story, and a Lazarus story. Mr. Hults had a completely unique take on each of these overdone themes. He has a novel out called Husk, which I plan to read ASAP. From what I can tell, the story has Lazarus elements and serial killer elements. My kind of story, if you know what I mean.
Give both authors a try. I did a blog piece on Blake Crouch pretty recently. Read my blog to learn how to save money on his ebooks. He has bundling that really is a good deal if you plan to read a lot of his books.
Please excuse any errors. Typing on my phone.
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You had me at “new D&D, Jenny! 🙂
Thanks for the links. I had read (and pimped) a few of them actually 🙂 Jane Friedman’s was new to me, though, and I loved it.
I’d like you all to visit Marcy Kennedy (http://www.marcykennedy.com/), Lisa Hall-Wilson (http://www.lisahallwilson.com/), and the amazing site they have together, http://girlswithpens.com
And I’d like to second Karen McFarland’s promo.
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Thanks, Fabio!! ((hugs)) You’re awesome.
Lisa
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LOL…Kristen Lamb was a D&D freak too, and I think Gene Lempp was in that mix. 🙂 You’re in good company.
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In that “mix”…yes. AND – I in my late teens, early twenties I re-wrote the rules to something very similar to what became 3rd edition, ten years before there was a third edition. So, yeah, you could say I played D&D once *smile*
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Love all your links! I’ve got to PROMO this for a fellow pet writer–personal story about her cancer-surviving dog Hokey who inspires others (humans and furry wonders alike) over at Cornell: http://www.vet.cornell.edu/news/Hokey.cfm (You ought to check out Deb’s books, too)
And PIMP myself re: the new page about our original musical KURVES, premiering next month:
http://amyshojai.com/kurves/
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I love that name, “Hokey!” How awesome is that?? Ooooh…I haven’t seen your Kurves page…gonna go check that OUT!!
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Third post is pimping. Haven’t read so many posts this week. So I’ll have to search for promo opps
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You confused me here, Nicole…I don’t see any pimpin’ going on!!
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A keeper. I’m gonna spend some quality time this afternoon checking links and expanding my mind. Got one thing to pimp, it’s something everybody can do. You know that pesky change you get when you make the run to the supermarket? I’ve got a use for it. save it in a jar, and when it’s full buy gift cards from the supermarket and send them on to local food banks. It’s a nice thing to do.
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Tom, I LOVE this idea. I am so impressed with your loving spirit. Good for you. 🙂
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You all know Natalie Hartford is hilarious and usually keeps us laughing, but on Fridays she focuses on keeping us alive. Today she’s got a brilliant young country music sensation on her blog (just a video, not the actual girl). I really hope you all will check it out and listen to the message. It’s a tear jerker, but in a good way.
Here’s the link:
http://nataliehartford.com/2012/02/03/the-keys-tells-the-story-of-a-girl-who-drinks-and-drivesand-dies/
As for pimping? Today I’ve got my Crush of the Month – Hugh Jackman spotlighted. Come on over for some sweet Australian hotness. (just click on my name up there, or go to:
http://www.tamerietherton.com)
Thanks Jenny!
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Tameri,
I SOOOOOOOOO love Hugh Jackman!! That lap dance he did for Diane Sawyer sold me forever. 🙂
And you know I love Nat too! Great pimping…
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Always great to hear what’s rocking people’s worlds. I especially liked the Lydia Sharp piece and will definitely start following her blog.
For those of you who are struggling to write a novel I’ve recently discovered two blogs that I’ve now begun to follow: Novel Girl (http://rebeccaberto.wordpress.com/) and Jordan McCollum (http://jordanmccollum.com/). Both bloggers are disciples of Larry Brooks (as I have become too). And, of course, his indispensable site is http://storyfix.com/
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Thanks, Joe…and thanks for promoting some new authors. Of course any disciples of Larry Brooks are worth taking a look at. 🙂
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Thanks for linking me. Woo. It’s humbling to know other people refer my blog! 🙂
Other great links too!
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One of my favorites for pragmatic advice and fun is Tiffany A. White: http://www.tiffanyawhite.wordpress.com. I know there is some great TV out there, but I don’t have the time or the inclination to sort through all of the shows and figure out what’s worth watching. Thankfully, Tiffany makes the time (somehow!) and does a great job of summarizing and recommending shows.
If I’m going to promo myself, I would say that if you love and words and language, check out my Amazing Words Wednesdays at http://www.julieglover.com.
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I adore your Amazing Word Wednesdays, Julie! And Tiffany has been the only reason why I could stand to give up TV in 2011 and 2012. She makes me feel like I’m up to date (even if I’m not) and I know what series to rent on Netflix!! 🙂
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Thank you, Julie! I adore your blog just as much. I can’t wait to meet you! And Jenny! We’ll all be together in just a few short months…can you believe it?
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So glad you included Ingrid Schaffenburg. She’s fairly new to #MyWANA, but she’s a dear, sweet lady – and she can write.
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Thanks, David! It’s a lovely post – her calmness and joy shine through…
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Jenny, if I never read another person’s blog I would have all the information I need straight from yours. You share the best links around!
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How sweet are you, Patricia!! I appreciate you taking time to comment. I do enjoy all of you guys’ posts. And I like to branch out even further to expose y’all to new stuff. 🙂
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I know Tiffany White has already been mentioned, but her new author series is well worth checking out. This week she interviewed Kait Nolan: http://tiffanyawhite.wordpress.com/2012/02/03/friday-fabooolousness-kait-nolan-seeing-red/
I don’t normally like to self-promote, but some people in the Twittersphere did some really awesome things for a mom-in-need and I think it’s a story that will brighten the day of others. So here it is: http://wosushi.wordpress.com/2012/02/03/friday-inspiration-social-media-for-good-part-ii/
Thanks for the great links! (That post by August STILL sticks with me. Amazing.)
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Amber – both these posts are phenomenal. I loved ’em both. 🙂 Obviously, August’s blog got to me too…
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Awe, thank you so much Amber. *Hugs* ❤
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I would like to put out there Marcy Kennedy’s latest post about which Star Trek…species you are most like. I’m a Klingon married to a Betazoid. Yeah – life is interesting. http://www.marcykennedy.com/star-trek/what-star-trek-race-are-you/
I loved August’s post – that’s a very compelling piece and very well written.
And if I get to promote one of my posts, this is my latest – 5 parenting tips from addicts about keeping your kids drug free
http://www.lisahallwilson.com/2012/02/03/5-parenting-tips-learned-from-addicts/
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OMG, I loved that Star Trek post! I had to tweet it and give it some promo love. 🙂
As someone who knows MANY former addicts, I will absolutely be clicking on your latest post! Thanks so much for pimpin’ it – I hadn’t seen it…
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Fab mashup, Jenny! And sweet! I love the chance to promo someone. I’m sending a shout out to Tiffany White. She is my go-to spot for details on upcoming TV shows and first-in-line promos and reviews. Here is her recent post about the end of Chuck: http://tiffanyawhite.wordpress.com/2012/01/31/tele-tuesday-waving-goodbye-to-the-geeky-spy-weve-grown-to-love/
For a pimp, if anyone is a fan (or addict) of American Idol, come join in the fun of my Rants from an Idol Addict posts. I started early this season giving some feedback on the audition rounds and next week, we move on to Hollywood. http://writenowlife.wordpress.com/
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I hope Tiffany comes over here and sees all the love being heaped upon her!! I totally dig your American Idol posts, Barbara. Y’all blogging about TV (almost) makes up for me not watching any.
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Thank you, Barbara! You have made my day…. ❤
And, yes Jenny – I am right here…none of this would have been possible without you. Thank you!
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Thanks for the mention Jenny!! Great list 🙂
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You’re welcome, Ingrid! It was just a lovely post. 🙂
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Can’t believe I’m just getting to this post now!! Will be heading over to Lydia’s place ASAP. 🙂
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I hope she sparks big logline ideas for you, Myndi!!
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I’m late to the party, as always. Yikes. Anyway, Karen McFarland’s promo of Diane’s new book release definitely gets my vote.
I don’t do well with a self-promotion but okay, if I am encouraged to pimp then how about David Walker’s “Family” guest blog on my site at http://www.angelapeart.com/2012/01/guest-post-by-david-n-walker.html and my “European Castles” guest post on David’s site at http://davwalk.wordpress.com/2012/02/03/european-castles-by-angela-orlowski-peart/
Now off to check out some of the links! 🙂
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Angela, I loved both these posts – those are EXCELLENT Pimp and Promote shares. 🙂
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One quick Super Bowl point: some women put men to shame with the female version of enthusiasm 🙂 and this NYG fan was very happy last Sunday. Still riding that wave too.
PROMO: Sean Platt, Ghostwriter Dad, imparting some serious inspiration my way. And for their selfless knowledge of all things indie pubbed, Bob Mayer and Jen Talty at Write It Forward. And for never failing to inspire with a mega-dose of humor, the amazingly energetic Kristen Lamb.
Late or not, I’m glad I found my way here, Jenny!
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LOL, thanks Joanna! You were SUCH a happy Super Bowl Sunday girl, I can tell? That was an amazing game. I haven’t heard of Sean Platt so I’ll have to check him out. Thanks!!
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