A great list of intentions! I am sure you will meet most if not all of them. I agree we need some direction. Like you I love the start of a new year. I listed mine on my recent blog https://darlenefoster.wordpress.com/2015/01/03/lets-get-2015-started/
All the best for 2015! Happy writing.

Yes. The start of a new year brings hope.

Always! Happy New Year, Angela! and thanks for reading. I appreciate it!

Thanks, Darlene. I want to check out your post. I’m having a little trouble right now with my slow connection but will try later. Happy New Year! :)

I’m like you in that I don’t make resolutions but I usually do have some intentions. I haven’t set any down on the page yet, but they’ll come eventually. We used to make a big deal of the New Year, partying with friends, etc., but those efforts have petered out as the years passed. Now we spend New Year’s Eve with family and *sometimes* manage to stay up until midnight. LOL. Reality says January 1st is just the day after December 31st, but there’s something reassuring about the cyclic nature of a year. I always like Mondays, and just like the start of a new work week, the start of a new year also offers another fresh start. :)

I don’t usually make resolutions, but I like the idea of intentions.

I guess New Years has never been a big deal in the party sense for me, but more of a big deal in a private way, if that makes sense. I agree with you, fresh starts are wonderful!

I have to say I love the cover of Shari’s book. It’s SO beautiful. I know she must be thrilled and I’m sure you’re thrilled for her. :)

Absolutely, that’s why I stopped with all the resolutions stuff. Intentions work far better for me. :)

I like your idea of intentions, Laura. Nothing brand new is on the 2015 plate at the moment, but I do want to finish several projects that I started last year. The one goal that I have is to finally find a good system for using the time that I have in a way that’s most productive. I am a Class A procrastinator, so I intend to learn some discipline this year. For the past couple of weeks (except for weekends) I’ve made one step toward this by not going online until after 9 AM. As an early bird, I can get a lot done before 9 o’clock. So far, so good! Now, I just need to delete FreeCell and Spider Solitaire during the same time. :)

You’ve always seemed so much more organized than me, Heather. Online activity is a real time stealer. yet so darn tempting. Last summer I took a month long break from Facebook and was surprised at how easy it was to not log in once I got over that initial “withdrawal” lol!

I wish you luck in attaining your goals this year. Happy New Year!

Happy holidays. I enjoy your blog and listening to your thoughts abut life and writing.

Happy Holidays to you, Frieda! And thank you for your lovely comment. :D May you have continued success with your writing! I know you will.

Without listening where would we get our ideas! I love to eavesdrop (listen) to conversations on the bus, in coffee shops etc. Have a wonderful Christmas with just the right amount of talking and listening. See you in the New Year!!

Hope you have a wonderful Christmas and New Years with friends and family and that 2015 holds only good things for you and yours. Looking forward to your return in the new year!

Have a wonderful time off to rejuvenate and start anew in 2015. :-)

Laura, I believe both of your books got to travel to other countries with family members or friends? How about if travelling the support would be to take copies of your book along and leave one in a hotel or give to someone they meet in a cafe or somewhere?

Great tips, Laura. If only everyone would follow them! More writers would be able to make a living doing what they love, and perhaps even more important, would feel appreciated.

Reblogged this on Diane Tibert.

Reblogged this on Darlene Foster's Blog and commented:
A great post by my writer friend Laura Best. I consider myself very lucky in that my friends and family are very supportive of my writing. Some great ideas on how you can support writers you know.

Great list – and I am happy to say that I support my author friends in almost all of these ways via my own blog and in social media. I’m pretty sure they will reciprocate when my memoir is published.

Thanks to Darlene Foster, I get to check our your inviting website today.

Reblogged this on ajschildrensbooks.

Reblogged this on Chris The Story Reading Ape's Blog….. An Author Promotions Enterprise! and commented:
11 great tips from Author Laura Best :D

Reblogged this on Armand Rosamilia and commented:
Great advice about supporting an Author

Excellent tips.

Reblogged this on Thoughts by Mello-Elo and commented:
To all my friends from different walks of life, this is for you! From the support to sharing my books and buying them – thank you!

This is one of the best written pieces of advice for spreading the word about your books.

Now if I could just ask you to request my books from the local library, etc…😉 #books #sellers #readers

What you call common is what we call down to earth. Common (at least where I grew up) refers to being less than or what some term trashy. Being called common was considered a tremendous insult. It’s been so many years since I’ve heard the term used in reference to people other than “the common man” meaning every day folk, that I honestly don’t know if how others take to being called common. It’s interesting how terms mean different things is certain areas and with various people. This will be interesting to hear others take on this.

I believe we all have something “in common” but I don’t know about being “common”. I prefer the word “unique”. I once heard an adage that I liked that went like this: We are all made of different cloth, but share the same pattern. That, to me, means we are all human but are different or “unique”. And, I, personally, love down-to-earth people. I admire people from all walks of life or profession. I like “kind” people. I like “humble” people. I don’t especially care for egotistical, self-absorbed, mean, or negative people.

Yes, I’ve known that to call someone common was an insult in some places. Now here’s where I might confuse you…or myself. Is there a difference between someone “being common” or calling someone common? Yes, it certainly could be used as an insult when said the right way.. Ha, this sounds complicated. Hmm interesting, as you say, to hear what others have to say.

Unique is a very unique word, and I quite like it. “I admire people from all walks of life or profession. I like “kind” people. I like “humble” people. I don’t especially care for egotistical, self-absorbed, mean, or negative people.” I think many people would agree with you on that one!

I haven’t heard anyone called ‘common’ to mean anything other than insulting. I have used the word ‘grounded’ on occasion and ordinary. Interesting conversation.

I’m wondering if I were to add the word “folk” on the end of common, does that change the meaning for you, Tess, if someone is “common folk?” It is interesting the way we derive meaning from certain words and decide whether it is good or bad…I think it’s really just what we’ve been conditioned to think from society and we’re all guilty. There are probably other words out there like that.

I like your post and all the comments it has inspired. This is a bit of a tangent but at work the other day, one of my colleagues raised a few questions in an email. The Chair immediately responded with the comment that it was too early in the process to start asking questions. I like people who ask questions no matter if it’s too early or too late in the process. Talking about the term “common” is a good thing.

You are exactly right, I’m sure. Different ways of looking at things. Common folk may do it, but I’d want to be perfectly clear (if I thought someone might misunderstand). Somehow regular folk, even ordinary people, sound safe to ME. Again, different areas and different folk. :-)

Thanks, Laurie. What I do find interesting is the meaning we attach to words, labeling them as good or bad. I wish I could think of some other ones right off the top of my head but nothing’s coming to me. I’ll keep thinking!

I don’t know that it makes a difference. Probably just to me because it has been ingrained in my head. If someone is called humble that is not considered a bad thing….oh, how labels make us either smile or cringe!

Hi, Laura. Funny, I have been thinking about you today.

I do mind the diminished daylight hours; it’s my most difficult time of year. Depression looms this year more than it has the past several but I am hanging on waiting for those longer, warmer sunshiny days.

I often wonder about the characters writers create. How much is real out there somewhere, where do these ideas come from and how can they even sound so real?
I understand weird. Sometimes it’s what I do best.

I hate the dark. I wake in the dark and go to sleep in the dark. What kind of life is that. :-)

Not having time to write is frustrating. This move has limited my writing time (for now) and I don´t like it. I have never liked the shorter days but the promise of longer days to come helps.

I love your books and the reason is because I can put a face to whom you are portraying.

I’ve also been thinking of you, Lynn. Happy belated birthday! I meant to send off an email last Sunday but ran out of time then the rest of the week got away from me.

Sounds rather sad and lonely, actually, but I know the feeling. ;) Sometimes we just have to pull the world in around us and soak up the quiet.

Darlene, you’ve been extremely busy, and I can’t imagine trying to write if I were in your situation. The writing time will come eventually. Hang in their my brave friend. :)

Thanks, Dianne! You’re always SO supportive and I appreciate it. Writing can be a very lonely activity.

Fortunately the back of our house faces south and, if the sun is out, I move the chair in my living room so that I can sit in a sunny spot. My husband says I must be part cat! As for writing time? Well, I struggle with that one, too, but I know what you mean about those characters. Thank goodness they demand the attention they do, or they’d never make it into print.

When it turns dark I’m ready for bed, ha! I don’t get anything accomplished during these hours. They call it sundowners with the elderly. I feel so lethargic in winter and energetic in the summer. I like the longer days. Crazy how the darkness brings me down.

Eccentric Laura….not weird :) Time changes everything and I notice in the past couple of yrs. that less light bothers me. It didn’t before….must be my advanced age. :/

I enjoy the quiet, but I don’t wonder some people (SAD) suffer because of this time of year. <3 Not me, thankfully.

I think it is so cool that Miss Charlotte is reading your book already. That is amazing and so special. We just moved to Spain so I’m not able to be as active in the blogging world right now either. After Christmas we will all be back to normal (ha ha) How about “Writing with a Broken Brain”

Yes, it is pretty cool. I recorder her reading the first snippet in August, but her voice is rather soft so I didn’t have it uploaded to Youtube. Maybe sometime. Your move is a brave one, Darlene. I wish you all the best. I couldn’t be happier for you. And I think ““Writing with a Broken Brain” sounds about right for some days. ;)

“Walking With Blistered Feet” because I got new boots and am walking for hours every day on the streets of Toronto. The TD Book Gala Thursday night was an amazing event! I’ll tell you all about it at the New Ross Fair…

Call me unimaginative but I’m much taken with, “Hearing With a Broken Ear…”
My granddaughter was reading at four–she couldn’t wait–and I fell all over myself. Now almost eleven, she shrugs when I ask if she’s read anything interesting lately. Her nose is stuck in her iPad mini instead of a book. Sigh.

I don’t think you are as silly as they come, I think you are sillier. But then I have know you for quite a little while now. I have worked with you, talked a lot with you, travelled with you and confided in you, and a number of other things with you. I think Miss Charlotte is a vey smart little girl. She may become a writer just like you Grandmother. I have also told you that you were famous in the eyes of many people, now the guy in the book store proves it…Take care.xoxo

Young readers are cool. How about “Singing with No Voice”.

That’s really neat that the clerk recognised your name. As my kids would say, “Sweet!”

I always love getting your updates. Your life is full and busy and probably a little crazy, but that’s what keeps us young (at least, young at heart, right?). Our son had developed a pretty good reading vocabulary before he got to kindergarten, but his teacher complained it was a disadvantage because he was always bored in class. I think the problem was more hers than his! I’ll bet it’s a special delight to have Charlotte reading your book. As for a sequel’s title… I can’t outdo Diane’s! Love the idea of “Singing With No Voice”. :) Glad you’re writing. Keep at it!

I really enjoyed your post. You inspire me to keep writing.

I like Diane’s “Singing with no voice”.

I agree, Suzi. It’s a bit thought-provoking.

Thanks, Laurie. Anything that keeps us writing, right?

Yes, it’s pretty cute to know she’s even interested in reading it let alone attempting a book “without pictures.”

I quite like, “Singing with No Voice.”
Yes, I was very surprised to have my name recognized. Not sure what his reaction would have been had I been a famous writer, though. ;) Nice to have you visit, Diane. I’ve missed you. I hope things have slowed down for you and we’ll see you around WordPress more often.

Yes, we’ve known each other a looooong time. ;) Don’t forget that we got locked out of your truck together. Not sure about this “famous” thing. I’m just me. :D

I’m afraid that books will not be the norm in years to come, Tess. I’m sure the time is approaching when children will never hold a “real” book in their hands. Not sure how that makes me feel.

A sorry about the blisters, but I’m very anxious to hear all about the TD Book Gala. Can hardly wait!

I know how I feel: s-a-d.

Oh, wow! Congrats to your mom for a new chapter in her life! And you just keep on doing what you love, girl!

Isn’t life interesting?!! So many great things going on in you life, Laura and you deserve it! So does your mom. A big congrats to her and Gary. Like her, I am saying….I am getting married AGAIN to Gary! Now that is something I never thought I would say. But it’s all good. :)

lovely to get this update. While we all KNEW you were writing, because, yes, it’s who you are…we had no idea of these other bits of amazing news. Congratulations all around.

Hurray for all the great news at your house–and your mom’s too. Nice to hear that your are enjoying all your family and writing time. Hope you have a great week ahead!

Thanks, Angela! It’s an exciting time for everyone. :)

Life certainly is mysterious and we just never know what will happen. I’m SO happy for you and Gary. Who knew way back then? Really…

Thanks Joss!

Thanks, Heather. It will be a busy week but busy can be a good thing. :)

Laura, that is the best news about your mom. And ditto on the grandbabies … my baby girl had a baby girl three months ago and I found out last week that they will fly 1200 miles to spend her first Christmas with me. How wonderful is that?

I love your incurable disease and am happy to live with that bug. Keep writing and loving :)

It appears we have the same disease! We are also once again in the same anthology which is wonderful and for such a good cause. I am so happy for your mother. I just love stories like this. I wish her and her new husband all the best. You are never too old for happiness!!Those grandchildren of yours are so lucky to have you to give them hugs and cuddles.

Thanks for the view from the other side of the table, Laura.

I giggled through writing this, Patti. While these days I’m the author, I wasn’t always. A friend of mine recently discussed with me “avoid making eye contact” that she said she often does when ticket -sellers are nearby. ;)

pick a copy of the book and carry it around with you as if you’re deciding whether to buy it, that’s pretty much how I make most book buying decisions. when I’m not sure I want to buy, I just carry it around the store and read from it now and then.

anyway, who says you have to buy the book or any book when you can go to your local library for it, assuming there’s a copy.

I usually prefer to get the paperback version anyway, so there’s no reason to buy the first hardcover release unless I really, really like the author.

hope you have a great day.

Oh, Lissa, that’s a great tip. Love it! ;)

And you’re right, people shouldn’t feel badly for not purchasing an author’s book. I find myself only buying if it’s a book I’m interested in or if I want to support that particular author. From my perspective I find it nice if people just stop to chat. It can be a very boring time if no one stops to say even say hi. We don’t expect every single person to buy a book, nor should people feel obligated. And being a library user, myself, I see nothing wrong with borrowing books, and everyone should keep in mind that libraries count for quite a few sales anyway.

I feel sorry for authors who need to put up with such energy sapping antics. Awful to build up hopes of a sale just to pass the time. ~(+_+)~~

Comment on how good the first book is, and say, enthusiastically, “I sure hope the Bookmobile will be supporting your efforts, I’ll be first in line to take it home for a read!” :)

I’ve been on both sides of the table, Tess. since my first book came out I’m much more aware of the author sitting there all alone. I also try to encourage people, that even if they can’t buy a book, that it’s nice to have someone stop by and chat. At one on my signings a gentleman looked my book all over, we talked a bit, and he told me he didn’t read fiction and probably wouldn’t buy the book. I appreciated his honesty and thanked him for stopping by my table. A while later he came back with a hot chocolate for me. :) I had no complaints. I thought that was very nice.

That’s a good one, Charmaine! And authors love libraries that stock our books. That’s a win/win excuse. ;)

Too funny! I’m amazed that you actually thought of ten strategies, especially since you’re such an avid book buyer yourself! I’m the worst at selling my own books and avoid face-to-face selling most of the time. I don’t know too many writers who are more extrovert than introvert, which is why the selling part is so tough I suppose. Thanks for the giggle!

Well, some of those exact strategies have been used by others to avoid my table, Jan. ;) I do like meeting and chatting with others, but the business part is always more challenging for me. Ah..but we do what we must when our book is involved, right?

A wonderful man. Warms the cockles of my heart to read such a positive experience. >3

I typed this comment three times. What the heck is going on? It kept disappearing. Grr.

These are too funny and too true. I usually give everyone who stops by a bookmark so they feel they got something for stopping by. I agree, we just like to chat with people, we don’t expect everyone to buy a book. At one book store I ended up selling another book (not mine) but at least the store got a sale!

That is food for thought. I wonder…in our throw-away society, would there be anything left?

Laura, my feelings about this topic are so powerful, I will have to be careful not to get too over-the-top. I will say … I HATE zoos. The arrogance and stupidity of men to think they can absolve themselves from the horror they wreak on nature by putting some if it a box and calling it research. Soon we will take a few pairs of rhino and elephants and put them in cages and tell the world we are attempting to save their kind. When we could save them by banning the use of ivory in anything man made. We could save the seals from the carnage. We can save the oceans and we can save the skies for the proud eagle.

I was told years ago that my inner animal is the eagle. I was in a state of hypnosis and saw myself flying through the clouds, free and happy. I will never believe that my fellow eagle would be happy to be earth bound. Our place is in the sky … free!!

Interesting question you pose, Patti. I often think how times have changed.

I tend to agree with you, Florence, when to comes to the eagles.We once went to the Eagle Watch about an hour or so from where we live. We saw a lot of eagles. They are so magnificent. Growing up, eagles and hawks were so scare in these parts, but now the population is gaining in numbers. I see hawks most every day and eagles are a common sight as well. In my memory I can remember only seeing one bald eagle as a child. So knowing they are gaining in numbers makes me very happy. :)

I’m the one crying in my pillow. Enough said on that subject. LOL. Love my eagles here at our lake. Can’t imagine life without them soaring past. The first time we made eye contact, well–I’ll never forget it.

S.w.e.e.t. :-D

Luckily, it’s not every day that someone writes a blog post about not writing a blog post. I’d been trying to post at least once a week and this past week has been SO busy. But I couldn’t resist being a bit silly. ;)

Who said a girl doesn’t want / need to have a little fun. This post made me smile. Something out of nothing and entertaining too@ <3 :-)

You are funny, Laura. I’ve had a lot of blog posts that just didn’t happen. Life happened instead. Blessings to you…

Ha! I’ve been doing a lot of that this summer, too… not posting, that is. During my holiday time it was justified because I had no electricity, no phone or internet there. Other weeks I’ve just chosen to focus on other things. I resorted to using the scheduling option of WordPress and featured some of my photographs — no ‘words of wisdom’ per se, but hopefully some compensation for those who ventured onto my blog during my absence. I guess we can’t stay idle indefinitely though, can we? :)

I enjoyed your blog today, and could really identify! Sometimes we need to put the whole blog business in perspective. I mean, how can we share our lives, if we don’t live them, and that includes living those times that are full to bursting with no time left for writing a blog. :) Onward!

A sense of humour never hurts, Carol Ann. ;)

I love the scheduling feature with WordPress and have been using it quite a bit lately. It helps make me feel less rushed. I’ve been trying to post once a week. For me, I like that. It feels doable.

I love your photos, Carol! You’re right it at least lets others know we’re still maintaining our blogs.

Thanks, Heather! Blogging is such a huge commitment, but I feel good knowing my blog is still alive and kicking even if I don’t get time to blog every week. :)

I started out aiming for three posts per week, and for years I was able to maintain it until I started noticing some days I was spending more time concocting a post than I was writing. Two a week is what I’ve tried to maintain since then, and that works okay for me except when I’m away… and I’m away a lot during the summer months.

Thank you, Laura, for the wonderful interview!

A fascinating interview, Laura! I’ll definitely be looking for her book. Thanks for doing a blog entry on her!

I admire the writer who can take on such daunting projects and stick with them. These books look to be intriguing to read. Congrats to Marsha for accomplishing such amazing work.
Great interview, Laura!

Always admire Marsha for her passion and her thorough knowledge of her topic and research methods. And then there’s the great reads she gives us!

You books, which I enjoy, are written with passion, courage and empathy; I love authors who are picky about the facts: then I can trust the story’s foundation. Best of luck with the new book.

Malcolm

What a remarkable interview. Sounds fantastic. Something to look into. :-)

You’re more than welcome, Marsha! I’m looking forward to this new book of yours. I know I won’t be disappointed.

I have read and enjoyed Marsha Skrypuch’s books. I agree with her that anyone can read a book and enjoy it no matter what age it is marketed to. I was honoured today when I found my books right next to Marsha’s at my local book store. Thanks for this great interview Laura.

I love your honesty, Laura. Always right on. I often feel guilty for being a slow writer who goes at it in spurts of great activity and then zilch. My novel dreams still seem so elusive to me but I still keep plugging along trying not to feel too guilty about my slow progress.

Fun to hear about your interview with Marsha. I look forward to reading it. I remember seeing her when I went to a Canscaip Conference in Lumsden, Saskatchewan years ago. Such an inspiring writer just like you, Laura!

I am a believer in one setting his/her own pace!

I am still on that slow put-put-put boat to China when it comes to writing. Good thing I’m trying to enjoy the view along the way.

I used to beat myself up all the time. Slowly, I am more dependable schedule-wise but still not make miles of progress. I like to give myself permission to take my time. Thank you, Laura. A fabulous thought. I like this post. :-)

Thanks, Cathy. It makes not sense to me to worry about how much writing I can get done. I feel that hurrying will not help me write the kind of story I’m capable of writing. All stories are different when it comes to writing them.

Marsha is certainly an inspiration to writers. I’m so amazed by her accomplishments and so excited to have her on my blog for an interview.

Absolutely, Susan. It’s a tough one for some of us to learn. We were given the idea from the time we start school that getting our work done quickly was a good thing.

Slow and steady, my friend. WE’ll get there eventually. :)

You’re welcome, Tess. Beating ourselves up over things never helps. It just makes us feel miserable which in turn stifles our creativity. There’s no way to win. A story takes as long as it takes, not only to read, but to write.

Sigh. What a breath of fresh air you are. <3

Good for you, Laura! It took stress-related illness to make me see the light. I still have to slap my hand when I realize I’m pushing myself to write faster, faster, faster, but most of the time I’m relaxed and breathing easier. I wish for you an optimal word flow. :-)

Thanks, Linda. It’s good to hear that you also are breathing easier these days. I can remember feeling stressed in school. I don’t want that same stress in my writing life. When I feel that stress I start writing monkey crap and that’s not selling so well these days. ;)

I have often thought it might be nice to join a book club, other than ones to only buy books, but I read a lot now on my own, mostly for reviewing. This means I don’t get the added bonus of discussion about the book, and I wish I knew how to get that going on my blog, but .. oh well. I am reading and sharing in my individual way, even if just talking to myself.
I’m glad for you that you started a book club and are enjoying it. Great post, Laura! Book club is a great (short) name for your reading group. :)

I think it’s a great name. But as you know I’m not a reader, unless it’s how to do a new pattern. LOL But I do read your books, because you wrote them, and I must confess that I liked them. Also, they were fairly short so I could really enjoyed reading them to the end. The “Book Club” was a bit too much for me, I didn’t think I could read a book a month. Then you know me, I’m not into speaking up in a group. I have a lot of crafts to finish before Christmas to read books. But it looks good on you..xoxo

Book clubs are great for all the reasons you stated. I attend one but not on a regular basis. When I do I’m always glad I did. Hearing other individual’s take on a book is refreshing and for me, it’s also a chance to make new friends. Great post!

Love your perception of “The Book Club” … very well put. Yes, I love my book club but we don’t meet twelve months a year, only eight. I miss the members between and start reading for one year as soon as the current one it done. The books are a treat, but the reaction of each member is sweeter. Enjoy … it’s a good tihng :)

That means SO much coming from you, Linda! :)

WE have had as many as 22 come to our meetings. The numbers vary, but we always have a great discussion. I’m so happy to be a part of it. Blessings to you as well, Carol Ann. :)

Life is rarely about what we think it is. At least that’s the way I see it. :)

Many of the members have been reading ahead of schedule, too. I guess if you like to read it’s sometimes difficult to resist. I was so pleased when we decided to have a book club.

No, I’ve never been able to commit to getting the reading done in a timely manner. But you’re right, we make ourselves do too many other things. I’m glad you shared your experience.

So far most of us have been doing good at getting the reading done in a timely manner, but even when someone doesn’t finish a book they come to sit in on the discussion.

This is a wonderful reminder to carve out me time. Everyone needs comforting downtime and what better way than with a group of women who soon become friends as well as readers together.

Girl time. I had a book club once that survived for almost ten years. It developed into a deeper friendship of six women but always, always there were books to discuss. I miss the club. I would have enjoyed a male or two in the group but for a different perspective but it all worked out wonderfully just as it evolved.

I do believe that “me” time is important and yet it’s often the first thing we ignore when we’re strapped for time. Most of us are guilty of that at one time or another. There is always to many other things to take care of. I know people who talk themselves into believing that they are just SO busy, and I’m sure it’s true. Of course it is. But we can only be as busy as we really want to be.

When I was invited to one book club that was reading “Flying” there was a man present in the group. You’re right, it was interesting to hear a man’s perspective about my book especially since it wouldn’t typically be a book many men would choose to read.

I so like the book club. It is pushing me to read books I normally wouldn’t read.

My sister and her husband in Vancouver started a couples book club quite a few years ago. Must ask if it is still going strong. It used to be a potluck and book chat on a Sunday afternoon. It sounds delightful to me.

Happy to have run across you in Blogland!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

I’m glad you didn’t give up. It’s been great being able to get to know you via WordPress. Looking forward to the next 500!

That’s a positive accomplishment; congratulations, Laura! You know (because I’ve told you, but it bears repeating) I’ve been encouraged by you and your writing. You are an excellent role model. Thank you!

Wonderful news, Laura. I am sometimes a silent reader, but I do enjoy leaving comments and enjoy receiving them as well. We are writers after all and what we want is an audience :)

Go for the next 500 with gusto !!!

Laura, I’m at 499, so I understand perfectly how you feel. We’re constantly told that numbers don’t matter, but you and I know differently. It’s a wonderful recognition of us pouring our hearts for hundreds of strangers to read. We’ve discovered some terrific friends over the years, who take the time to read and response to what we offer up. Yes, the numbers matter.

Ditto! :)

Thanks, Christi! And congrats to all your success. You must be so excited!

I’m glad I didn’t give up, too. :) I’ve seen a lot of bloggers come and go in the past five years, though. Something I can certainly understand, but you find yourself missing these people and wondering what they’re doing.

Lynn, you always have such sweet things to say. If you feel encouraged by my blog, I’m happy about that! Not sure I feel at all like a role model but I’ve learned over the years to simply say, “thank you” when someone gives you a compliment. Thank you!

Was Arthur a hurricane? Looks pretty awful, Laura. Glad you survived to tell us about it. Blessings to you…

No, Laura … I thankfully have no “Arthur” story. The worst for us in SoFla this year is lots of rain, wind not so bad, rain, thunder and lightening and that’s all.

I love that live in a place where people truly believe “it takes a village” to survive and to make whole … even for the little robin and her babes :)

Arthur didn’t pay us much mind, but did cast a couple tornadoes our way, thankfully nothing serious. I appreciate how people who live in the country chip in and do whatever for whomever.

The robin eggs are so pretty. I hope mama bird can keep them safe. The mockingbirds around here are always tormenting the mamas and trying to snatch the eggs.

Glad you weren’t harmed during Arthur’s swoop. I’m in the Toronto vicinity and we were not affected but have read about the devastation your way.

I’m glad you survived Arthur without serious damage. I’m sure it was a frightening experience for many people.

Here in B.C. we don’t get much violent weather. However, two years ago we were visiting our daughter on Vancouver Island when a storm came through with hurricane-force winds and did a fair amount of tree toppling and roof ripping. The only personal inconvenience was a lengthy power outage, and we braved the wind to take a number of photos and videos. I mentioned the storm in a post after we got back home: http://wp.me/phaYw-1vY

Arthur began as a hurricane but when it reached us was classified as a tropical storm. Either way he was nasty.

I’m expecting the babies to soon hatch and really keeping my fingers crossed.

We’ve actually had more rain in our parts this past week than we got when Arthur came through. Not that I’m complaining. Arthur’s wind was enough to last us for awhile.

I don’t like the sounds of tornadoes. Generally, we don’t have to worry about them but the way our weather is lately one never knows what to expect.

Nothing makes me happier than a nest of robin eggs. Really hoping they stay safe.

It sounds as though Fredericton was particularly hard hit. Hopefully, we won’t have anymore storms like Arthur for awhile. It’s too early in the season. Way too early.

Thanks, Carol. I think all things considered we came through okay. I’ll check out your post. Thanks for the link.