Archive for the ‘Writing Nook’ Category
Jan 21, 2010 Writing Nook
This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Allison Maslan, author of “Blast Off!”. All opinions are 100% mine.
I have had tragedy in my life but I do not focus on the negative. I have had the chance to enjoy tremendous success in a competitive industry. I am no longer involved with my old business, but I will always be self-employed. I am reaching success as a freelance writer. Every day brings a new challenge and I get close to my ultimate goal.
To me, success brings a lot of pride. I struggle, work hard but eventually come to a comfortable place. My career choices benefit my family. Their happiness is what I seek every day. Why am I telling you this? Because you should be successful as well.
I was reading about Allison Maslan’s book Blast Off! Allison Maslan is a life coach. She helps people become who they always wanted to be. Blast Off! will launch January 19th, 2010 on Amazon, Borders, Barnes and Noble websites. You will be able to find this self-help book in other major bookstores as well. The price of the book is only $24.00, and even less on Amazon.com. The advice you get out of Blast Off! is priceless.
I was reading about Allison Maslan and the new book available on Amazon. I am very interested in picking up a copy. I’d like to think that I am a motivated goal getter. I can benefit from Blast Off! because I have everything invested in being a successful entrepreneur.
Jan 12, 2010 Writing Nook
This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Heineken. All opinions are 100% mine.
I love an ice cold Heineken. I was born in Europe, which explains why I’m so fond of the beer. I am a mom, so drinking and driving is out of the question for me. I’ve been around drunk drivers many times in my younger years. It is not a safe activity and it is just borderline stupid. People have a lot to lose. Driving drunk just makes it easier for people to lose jobs, loved ones and even their lives.
Technology makes our lives safer every day. I’m glad to see companies taking initiative in protecting consumers. Heineken does produce and sell beer, but they like their customers and do not want to see someone get hurt. The Heineken Know The Signs website is a good read. Use it to learn about impairment signs and protect your friends.
Besides the website, Heineken has an innovative way to tell people if they have had too much to drink. Smart phones have come a long way, with the iPhone being the most popular. There is an application for everything, including a breathalyzer. Heineken has developer a real-time alcohol test. It basically turns your iPhone into a working breathalyzer. The app is completely free. Download the Heineken Breathalyzer iPhone app and give it a try. Protect yourself and friends around you. Do not drive drunk!
My husband and I love out son dearly. We would never do something to hurt him or ourselves. My husband has CDL license, which is another reason why we drink responsibly. An incident with drunk driving would lead to him losing his job. It is just not worth it. When we do go out, one person drinks and the sober one drives. We alternate, keep it fair and most of the time I choose not to drink. I like feeling good in the morning and spending time with my son. I’ll blame that on my old age as well. Drinking Heinekens all night long at my age is not that easy. Old age is tough to accept and there is no app for that!
Jan 5, 2010 Writing Nook
This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Pexagon Technology. All opinions are 100% mine.
I remember my first BlackBerry. I was a proud CrackBerry owner years ago, when it was only available in black and white screens and no camera capabilities. It seems like ages ago now, but I needed a smartphone really bad for business purposes. My BlackBerry was bulky and often came with terrible signal. It cost a pretty penny as well. My biggest problem with it was that it was just so boring, with no personalization or fancy applications that would make it a customized gadget. Reminiscing about my first BlackBerry makes me want to go buy a newer version.
BlackBerries have come a long way. They are sleek, shiny and so much prettier now. Smartphones are so personal now, with personalized Apple & BlackBerry cases available. I also like the new plastic or sillicone casing. My BlackBerry was never protected and it scratched easily, but that was before such things ever existed. I did have an option of a leather case, but I’d have to pull my BlackBerry out of the leather package before being able to use it. Yes, it was that many moons ago!
Personalized BlackBerries can even be engraved with text and logos. This would be a great idea for business owners, to fully customize their CrackBerries with their business identity. If I still had my business, I’d get the logo engraved as well as an inspirational quote. The quote would remind me to keep on conquering the world. The personalized engraving service can also make a perfect gift for a loved one. Apple’s iPhone 3G/3Gs and iPod touch 2nd Generation casings can also be personalized. IPhones are especially popular, if you do not have a Blackberry you most likely have an iPhone. So there is something for every smartphone gadget lover!
Dec 20, 2009 Writing Nook
This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Hiltons of Branson. All opinions are 100% mine.
I am looking out the window again and only seeing plowed mounds of snow. The East Coast is still under a weather advisory and we have been told that more snow is on the way. I will need to dig a tunnel tomorrow morning just to find my car and perhaps I’ll cry when I see it looking like a tray of frozen lasagna. Traveling has never looked better, especially around the holiday season where there is nothing but more snow coming our way. Maybe changing scenery would help, even if we end up in another snowy location. At least we would be on vacation and no snow shoveling would be required.
The Hiltons of Branson are offering good travel packages for families, including It’s a Wonderful Life package at $329/night. Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing is close to shopping centers, restaurants and entertainment centers. Right now is not the weather for golf, but you and your sweetheart can always get away to a relaxing spa appointment. The kids can have a special treat of hanging out with Mrs. Claus and even the man himself – Santa Claus.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be spending time with the little ones until December 23rd. There is even a story time in the hotel lobby. A special deal, Santa’s Coming to Town Package ($189/night), is available for anyone who wishes to have milk and cookies delivered to their hotel room by Santa.
Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel and the other Hilton hotel are both participating in these special holiday packages. Both hotels are family-friendly and come with every amenity a family needs, including pack-and-plays. If you are up for traveling and meeting Santa, be sure to check out Hiltons of Branson in Branson, Missouri.
Dec 14, 2009 Writing Nook
This is a sponsored guest post written by John Phillip on behalf of Elite Telecom. Post powered by Sponzai.
Southern Eagle Insurance, a workman compensations service for businesses in Florida, has implemented an Avaya phone system in order to make services more efficient. Due to the nature of the business that Southern Eagle Insurance run, a missed call or message can have a disastrous effect on claims that are time-sensitive. Avaya has implemented an IP Office 500 phone system which has all the hall marks of an Avaya system. Features such as voicemail, auto-attendant and call routing can make life a whole lot easier for Southern Eagle Insurance.
Dec 5, 2009 Writing Nook
The Balsams dining experience is a great choice for families traveling over the holidays or for those who frequently travel and wish to experience dining at its best. The culinary staff prepares meals from the freshest ingredients and produce from local farmers.
The Balsams, a hotel New Hampshire is a resort that offers the table d’hote experience from world class culinary school’s students. The hotel’s culinary staff attends a rigorous curriculum, where fewer than half participants have the privilege of graduating. The Dixville Notch New Hampshire-based program is recognized as the best of its kind. Successful and dedicated students go on to help feed up to 500 guests a day at The Balsams.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner is available at The Balsams. Buffet luncheons are served during busy summer seasons and holidays. Men are required to wear jackets for evening dining. Dinner is served table d’ hôte style, where the guests are able to pick from entrees such as Coconut Pork over Baby Greens. The menu changes often though, so do not be surprised if you have a variety of succulent entrees to choose from. Enhance your dinner and flavors of the dish by requesting a bottle of wine. The Balsams’ wine cellar features over 4,000 bottles from 310 different labels.
This is a family-friendly resort, where great food and a lot of activities bring joy to kids and adults.
Dec 5, 2009 Writing Nook
I don’t think I could have liposuction, because I do not feel like I need it. Some of my friends though have actively considered liposuction, especially around their legs and abdomen area. I don’t judge people for their reasons or desires to have liposuction. To me, educating them about the procedure is more important than why they wish to have it done.
Liposuction has come a long way. Lase liposuction is considered less invasive than earlier treatments and fat cells are “melted” through a skinny tube that is inserted under the skin. The procedure itself takes up to 3 hours, depending on the area treated and activity is resumed in 24 hours. Of course, the most important thing is finding a board-certified doctor to conduct this procedure. Our small town has plastic surgery and liposuction clinics, but they are available in most cities as well. You can use an online search tool to find the right doctor that offers. For example, you could search for Nashville liposuction or enter your zipcode.
Dec 3, 2009 Writing Nook
This is a sponsored guest post written by Cody Sortore on behalf of Petitions For Change. Post powered by Sponzai.
We are living in a time of change, will your voice be heard? We’ve just come out of a recession with some of the lowest employment ratings since the early 80’s company’s are restructuring, banks are rethinking their strategies, and governments are pushing for change in every direction. Will you have a say in the change that is to come? Stand up and let the world hear what you have to say with a free online petition. Gather support for your cause and create the change that so desperately needs to be seen in this world.
People are starting to realize that the system that we devised won’t last forever, and they are starting to plan for the future. Let the world know that you won’t have your life planned for this time without a voice. Whether you are looking to stand up against Religious Oppression, or if you think the Government has become too powerful it is your right as a human being to take a stand against any and all oppression.
With PetitionsForChange.com you can create a petition and collect signatures that will allow you to know exact who is for, and who is against your cause. Unlike some other petition websites Petitions For Change allows people to sign a petition in opposition. You can also link back to a page about your cause to help inform those who may be on the fence about the issue in greater detail.
First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States states: "Congress shall make no law…abridging…the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
It is because of this Amendment to the Constitution that all Americans have the right to petition against injustice, it is because of PetitionsForChange.com that all around the world you may share in this freedom! Take a stand today on whatever you are passionate about, and be heard with a free online petition. It’s very easy to get the word out about your cause, just visit PetitionsForChange.com and take a stand against any and all afflictions of this world. Stand up and be counted today before tomorrow passes you by.
Dec 3, 2009 Writing Nook
This is a sponsored guest post written by Paige Dancy on behalf of Paige Dancy. Post powered by Sponzai.
Publishers in 2009 are reporting declining unit sales and dismal profits. Is this a result of a slower economy or is it something more malignant such as publishers not listening to what readers really want? According to reviews in Amazon and Barnes & Nobles, book buyers rate some of the top selling books as mediocre or worst. These same books garner high sales figures, appearance in the New York best sellers list giving the illusion of a book worthy of reading. A high number of units sold does not truly indicate a literary masterpiece but simply reflect a profitable release. One recent book that fits this criteria is The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown . This is a novel that is highly criticized by both professional literary critics and its readers who shelled out hard earned money to buy it. So why did The Lost Symbol vault to the top of the popular book list? Well for Dan Brown it is part his tenacity, his prior literary controversy, and the efforts of his great wife Blythe who is credited with doing a large part of his book’s promotions, writing press releases, booking Brown on talk shows, and setting up press interviews. So his latest novel’s success really boils down to name recognition. Dan Brown is a name the reading public recognizes and with all the pre publicity garnered by Brown’s novel the book buying public trusted that they would be treated to an exciting literary masterpiece.
Instead the book generated reader comments like, “This is the worst disappointment I’ve experienced in years. For months I thought the Lost Symbol was a sequel to the DaVinci Code. If that’s what you’re expecting, then you’re in for a big letdown. Not only is it NOT a sequel but it is probably the most boring, inane material you’ll have the displeasure of reading in a decade.”
Or as this reader states, “WAY over hyped.” And another said “two words describe this book: total drivel” Overall ratings from Barnes & Noble and Amazon both rated the book a weak 3 out of 5. Amazon readers had Brown’s book average rating as a high 2 for some time periods.
So if famous authors like Dan Brown are putting readers to sleep, are there authors out there who have something better to offer? The answer is yes, according to savvy readers. For comparison we list three books “ Trouble Man: by Travis Hunter , If Thine Eye Be Evil by Kathleen Yasas and Hulagu’s Web by David Hearne which are all rated 5 stars by Amazon readers. These are three books that appear to excite the readers but receive little or no attention from the gilded book critics who of late do little more than compete with each other writing about the same books. A quarter or a million books come out each year but only a couple hundred of them are given any recognition by book reviewers. Worst yet, many book critics dare only review books published by the large publishing houses. Books from small presses or self-published are treated like diseased waste by these literary prima donnas. The few that are read by the more adventurous and inquisitive critics are often subjected to a more rigorous criteria than similar books by new authors resulting in a very skewed rating system. So how can you discover and judge a good book by lesser know authors? Read the book reviews by actual readers. If an Amazon book buyer took the time to write a review, you can bet that what they say is more reliable than a critic who is forced to write so many reviews to keep their job. Book reader reviews are not tainted by the pressure professional critics face with maintaining long-term relations with publishers and other book industry royalty.
So what are readers saying about these three books “Trouble Man: by Travis Hunter“, If Thine Eye Be Evil by Kathleen Yasas and Hulagu’s Web by David Hearne? First let me say that these are all novels written by writers who had previous writing experience or previously published. Second these authors are all very different in their background and what they write about. Travis Hunter is an Afro American writer who writes about the struggles of the disenfranchised he creates unforgettable characters. His books are fast moving but also written well enough to move and touch readers emotionally in ways few authors can. His book Trouble Man is full of surprises and argues that we all have the capacity to grow and change for the better.
Kathleen Yasas is a crime thriller writer and an Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Finalist. Her novel “If Thine Eye be Evil” is a creepy book about a serial killing in Arkansas that appears to repeat its horror again in New York. One reader said, “Good luck led me to this book and I devoured it.” His comment pretty much summarizes the difficulty in readers finding good books that aren’t simply super hyped offerings by publishing powerhouses.
David Hearne’s book “Hulagu’s Web – The Presidential Pursuit of Senator Katherine Laforge” is a political thriller that touches on many of today’s current hot topics. Readers claim it is a “Relevant political thriller” another states, “it will make you think of your own stance for several popular issues we face today.” Hearne has been interviewed on radio and TV shows across the country. He has spoken to radio audience from New Hampshire to Oregon including cities like Salt Lake City, Amarillo, Texas, Liberal, Kansas, Houston, Ms and Ocala, Florida to name a few. His book has received raved reviews by professional critics and by Amazon readers but still few have discovered his book or the books of his contemporaries, Kathleen Yasas and Travis Hunter.
All three of these writers have created books that entertain and touch on issues in America culture. These are great writers who appear to have much to offer, but are forced to the back of the bus so the mediocre offerings of the large publishing houses can occupy the front. Luckily authors and small presses still have the fortitude to do whatever is necessary to get noticed and that is why we have had great books like Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen, A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini or Vince Flynn’s Mitch Rapp books. These three authors struggled with rejection from Publishing houses and literary agents, but were finally sought out when enough of the book buying public voted with their wallets that these authors were great writers with something that they wanted to read about.
So what really is good literature? Is it really what the masses are reading like the “The DaVinci Code?” That was a fun book to read but was it a well written literary piece? No, it’s a terribly written novel, but still an enjoyable read and probably will be considered a classic because of its popularity and its ensuing movie.
Today literary mediocrity is certainly a mainstay of the big publishers. Should that be considered an insult to the buying public or is it a result of the book industry inability to keep up with the evolving trends in literature and the numerous new ways books are made available? Have the literary agents lost touch with what the public desires and enjoys? I think it is all of these things and the undeniable fact that being a great writer today is no longer enough, you also have to be part publicist and an individual with iron will to succeed if you want readers to discover your work. Will these three books “Trouble Man: by Travis Hunter, If Thine Eye Be Evil by Kathleen Yasas and Hulagu’s Web by David Hearne become best sellers? Well that depends on you the reader. What do you want to read, great books or so-so books? If you really want great books, then yes they certainly have a chance.
Dec 1, 2009 Writing Nook
This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Yamaha. All opinions are 100% mine.
It’s almost Christmas, which reminds me of my red iPod Nano that was under the tree three years ago. I wish I could use my iPod more often, but I honestly disregard it. Originally I wanted an iPod so that I could take it along to the gym. The reality is that old age (hah!) has made me lazy and I do not even remember why I have a gym membership anymore. My iPod does reside in the car, where we have an adapter. It does get a lot of use in the vehicle, especially when we are playing nursery rhymes and kid friendly tunes. Jay-Z’s new album may be awesome, but “Wheels on the Bus” is appropriate for Kody’s ears.
A product that we as a family would really enjoy is Yamaha PDX-60. We could use our iPhone in the house and listen to music throughout the home. It would make dinner parties and entertaining a lot easier as well, as Yamaha yAired ™ wireless technology produces instant connections and no sound delays. My husband has an older iPod somewhere in the basement, but we could dig it out of storage and use it for music as well. The dual charging option would allow us to run two iPods using the dock on the speaker and another on the included charging cradle.
My husband has mentioned several times that we need a speaker dock for the iPod. We both love music and a Yamaha PDX-60 Speaker Dock would certainly get a lot of use in this household.
