tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38139683943022833782024-03-12T20:05:47.914-05:00Allyn's blogAllyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.comBlogger206125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-51869082215583909072018-06-08T10:06:00.004-05:002018-06-08T10:06:57.013-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My newest picture book, <strong>Snazzy Razzy</strong> is out! It's available through me at <a href="mailto:allyn_stotz@yahoo.com">allyn_stotz@yahoo.com</a>, Amazon at <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Snazzy-Razzy-Allyn-M-Stotz/dp/1616338822/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1528470020&sr=1-1&keywords=snazzy+razzy">https://www.amazon.com/Snazzy-Razzy-Allyn-M-Stotz/dp/1616338822/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1528470020&sr=1-1&keywords=snazzy+razzy</a> or Guardian Angel at <a href="https://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/snaz-raz.htm">https://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/snaz-raz.htm</a>.</div>
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<em>Raz Dillon could count to 200, tie his shoes, and make his lunch. However, he longed to find something he was really good at. So as he went on a quest to find that talent, Raz was determined not to quit until he found his own special IT. Suggested age range for readers: 4-10.</em></div>
<br />Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-48644405348583849902017-06-13T11:04:00.001-05:002017-06-14T13:14:02.623-05:00New Book Release "GRUMPY KYLE"Hello all my lovely fans and blog followers! I'd like to thank all my..... does this sound like an award speech? No, I haven't won a real award but my newest picture book <strong><em>Grumpy Kyle</em></strong>, has just been released by Guardian Angel Publishing and to me, that's just as exciting!<br />
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One of the most exciting things about this new book is that one of my favorite illustrator's, Jack Foster did the art work on it. He did a fantastic job and really captured my vision perfectly. I wish I had his talent! And he's such a nice guy to boot. Normally, the author and artist never speak or have any connection, but Jack is one of those artists that seems to love his job and is willing to associate with his authors. I'm honored that he worked on this book for me.<br />
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I dedicated this book to my mother-in-law who very recently passed away, so it has special meaning to me. I only wish she could've seen it and read the story. She would love the message I tried to portray. That being kind to other's can make you smile! It does me, and I know it did her as well.<br />
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You can purchase a copy of Grumpy Kyle at the following locations: <br />
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<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://guardianangelpublishing.com/grumpy.htm&source=gmail&ust=1497455866546000&usg=AFQjCNHOBtSbJz-gxUDyB9XX2hlmjiKkZA" href="http://guardianangelpublishing.com/grumpy.htm" target="_blank"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">guardianangelpublishing.com/<wbr></wbr>grumpy.htm</span></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Grumpy-Kyle-Allyn-M-Stotz/dp/1616338482/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1497369580&sr=1-1&keywords=grumpy+kyle%2C+stotz"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">https://www.amazon.com/Grumpy-Kyle-Allyn-M-Stotz/dp/1616338482/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1497369580&sr=1-1&keywords=grumpy+kyle%2C+stotz</span></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/grumpy-kyle-allyn-m-stotz/1126416109?ean=9781616338480"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/grumpy-kyle-allyn-m-stotz/1126416109?ean=9781616338480</span></a><br />
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If you'd like an autographed copy, just email me at <a href="mailto:allyn_stotz@yahoo.com">allyn_stotz</a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">@yahoo.com</a> or click on the comment button to the right of this blog.<br />
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Thanks and remember to smile!<br />
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Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-56637969450794571522017-05-18T08:49:00.000-05:002017-05-18T08:50:50.674-05:00Life Is Rough SometimesDid you miss me? I can't believe it's been so long since I posted something. However, I've had a lot of things happen in my life to take me away from writing. I'm not making up excuses, I'm only trying to explain why I've taken such a long break. <br />
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In the last two years, the father that I adored, passed away. That has hit me hard and I still cry most every day thinking about the wonderful person our family lost. In fact, I've been crying for over forty years worrying that someday we would lose him and how horrible it would be. After my father passed away, my husband retired and we made the decision to move out of state to Texas to be near my oldest sister and her family. This was a wonderfully happy decision of ours but as most of you know, moving is a complicated and stressful period. But we are all moved in and loving it.
However, next came the passing of my sweet adorable Yorky, Beemer who was my best buddy for twelve years. She followed me everywhere and always wanted to be with me. Two months later, my mother-in-law passed away and both of those deaths are still fresh on our minds. I couldn't have asked for a better MIL whom I've known since I was a young child. She was one of my best supporters and was always so excited when I had a new book come out. Her death still doesn't feel real to us.
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So, all those reasons are why my writing has been suffering. I couldn't find inspiration or the strength to go to my computer and write a happy children's story or even to market myself. Trust me, I've been beating myself up over all of this. Does taking such a long break mean I'm no longer a dedicated, serious writer? Heck no. I'm human! I needed this break to refocus.
Everything you read about being a writer, however, tells us that we need to write everyday but sometimes it's just not possible. It doesn't mean I don't love what I do just as much as I always did. It just means... I was sad and had too much on my plate to dedicate myself to much of anything.
All I can do now is try to get back into the swing of things. I owe it to my publishers and all the little kiddos out there that enjoy my stories.
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We writers really are hard on ourselves even with no tragedies in our lives. It's a stressful occupation because we face so many rejections everyday in some form or another. But it's also one of the most rewarding experiences of my life that I have no intention of giving up. It's just going to be difficult getting back up to speed.
I hope you all will be patient with me and still want to read my posts. I do have a few more books coming out soon so with God's help along with my dad and MIL's help from heaven, I know I can get my Mojo back.
More from me soon!
Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-26541592891258921192016-08-11T10:22:00.002-05:002016-08-11T10:22:20.372-05:00Pumpkin Squash is releasedMy new picture book, <strong><em><span style="color: #e69138;">Pumpkin Squash</span></em></strong> is finally available! And just in time for Halloween, imagine that!<br />
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<em><strong>When an ugly stuffed witch tells Pumpkin that he could end up squashed on the side of the road like all other pumpkins, Pumpkin takes off. He is determined not to let that happen to him so he runs through trick-or-treaters, hides in bushes only to encounter a big hairy monster. Can he find safety or is he destined to end up squashed!</strong></em></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #e69138;">Pumpkin Squash</span></em></strong> is suitable for 4-8 yr. olds and can be found on amazon.com, guardian angel publishing, other online retailers or through me. </div>
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Now for an update on our possible move to Granbury, TX. We are making our 2nd trip up there soon to see more houses for sale. We love the area so that is definitely where we plan to retire. I've already seen and imagined plenty of great opportunities for book signings in that area as well as Ft. Worth and Dallas. Even talked to a store owner on the town square of Granbury who told me she'd love to have me do a book signing there once we move.</div>
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Things are looking up for us! My sister and her husband just made an offer on a house so they'll most likely get there first. My dream of living close to family is beginning to look like a real reality and I couldn't be more excited. Keep your fingers crossed for us that we'll find our new retirement home soon!</div>
Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-12987047759075531772016-07-06T11:28:00.000-05:002016-07-07T08:24:38.077-05:00Missing In ActionI know, I know, I haven't posted in quite awhile. Did you think I've given up writing on my blog? Did you think I'd been kidnapped because I'm such a beautiful, interesting person that of course someone would want me? <br />
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Did you wonder if I'd won the lottery and flew the coup with all my millions (I wish)? Did you think that from my last post my husband and I loved New York so much we just up and moved there?<br />
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Well all of those are wrong. The boring truth is, I just didn't do it! Remember when I posted that my husband and I were trying to decide about retirement. Whether we should move someplace beautiful or choose to live near family? Truth is, we still aren't sure. My husband did, however, officially retire the end of June. Woo hoo!<br />
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Anyway, my mind has swayed away from writing and is totally concentrating on retirement. In my small mind, I have already chosen to move to Texas near my sister and nieces. However, we haven't even seen the area yet. We have a trip up there scheduled in a week or so. But I am so excited at the thought of living near some of my family, that I can't seem to concentrate on writing. I have never taken such a long break from writing but I think I need it. Plus, us writer's need to learn to forgive ourselves if we just "aren't feeling it" all the time.<br />
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On top of it, things haven't gone well for me in almost a year now as far as my writing career. Yes, I've gotten three new books out but all the events I had scheduled last fall, failed because of weather. I had 6 or 7 big events and every single one got rained on and/or cancelled. Rain stops people from coming out. And those that do decide to brave it, quickly run for cover and end up leaving. So no people around, makes for poor book signings. I ended up losing money, which was very disappointing.<br />
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And now that I have our potential move coming up, it's been really hard to focus on anything else. You have to understand, I haven't lived near any family in over 35 yrs. (waa waa waa) <br />
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That means 35 yrs. of never celebrating a birthday, the superbowl, Halloweeen, Christimas only when we could go visit or they could come to us, and the same with every other holiday or major event in our lives. I couldn't even have a party to celebrate my husbands 60th or his retirement because we simply have no family close by. We've met a lot of great people and good friends along the way, but nothing beats family.<br />
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So you can imagine how excited I am at the prospect of living near some family again. Plus, it's my big sister, husband, their two daughters and grandson and I absolutely adore them all! We will have such fun. And to top it off, I'll get a new house in a new community and to me, that's exciting and fun. It's a new beginning for this third portion of our lives.<br />
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Some of you probably think it sounds horrible to just up and move to a new community, but my husband and I have been doing this for 35 yrs. because his job was always transferring him. So that's old news to us and we've learned to enjoy the new adventure.<br />
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To conclude, that's why I haven't been updating my blog and I will most likely be inconsistent until all of this comes to an end. I will try to update you every once in awhile on our new adventure so if you're interested, keep tuning in.<br />
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One bit of good news I have to share about my writing is my new picture book for Halloween, titled <i>Pumpkin Squash</i> is being finalized so look for it soon!<br />
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<br />Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-92000337756610585332016-05-19T11:07:00.000-05:002016-05-19T11:07:47.511-05:00Our trip to New York CityMy husband and I finally took a real vacation last week. We've been married 35 yrs. and only taken two real vacations. Once to Cancun, once to an Alaskan cruise and now to NY City. We aren't big travelers but never had the option to be when I was working. I wasn't able to stay on a job long enough to get more than two weeks vacation because my husbands job was always transferring us. So with only 10 days all year and both our families living in different places and far away, we've always had to use up my 10 days visiting family. Not that we didn't love doing that, but once in awhile a person just needs to get away from everything and go have some adventures and see new things!<br />
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Anyway, New York is a place I have always wanted to see so my husband decided we needed to go there to celebrate our anniversary. And I'm glad he did. We both really needed the break.<br />
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New York is a spectacular city and there is certainly a lot to see! We didn't get to see everything we'd planned because some of the lines to get in were just too long for two people who have zero to no patience!<br />
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We had quite the adventure on the ferry boat to see the Statue of Liberty. What we could see was quite magnificent but mostly what we saw were people crowding in front of the views taking selfies! What has become of us! People are obsessed with themselves these days. (Hmmm, do I see a "selfies" picture book in my future!)<br />
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We saw a few people who never sat down. Never once even took in the views. All they did was pose for selfies. It was insane! We just had to laugh because if we didn't do that, I would've lost my cool and started yelling at people. We couldn't even take a picture of ourselves because every photo we took had a stranger in it. So we both just decided to jump on board and include strangers. Here is one of a family taking a photo and I just decided I'd jump right in. Don't I look like them?<br />
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And here is one where my husband just held up his hands and said, "What the heck!" The lady behind him in red has no clue what anything looks like. She never stopped taking her selfie once during the entire cruise! Where is she going to put all those photos of herself!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ONAIlFPPj4WEBgy0VVmXHq5fiJ8y4LX42BzeRCiBn-QD_G2Sf8ssUULiPG1il9RwaF9L4x8kq2LfI3sOBDujuMD8X8UhpbKu6vC65VJhjqa86GKqpoujZ294fGUiCBAcZbIz3pxF9QQ/s1600/Bradandstatoflib.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ONAIlFPPj4WEBgy0VVmXHq5fiJ8y4LX42BzeRCiBn-QD_G2Sf8ssUULiPG1il9RwaF9L4x8kq2LfI3sOBDujuMD8X8UhpbKu6vC65VJhjqa86GKqpoujZ294fGUiCBAcZbIz3pxF9QQ/s320/Bradandstatoflib.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKRVjQqca7-N5k2GbVwBt41uECZxbjzjZkv9tgmyY-86DmEzNc8WXufqOKJdEcaFgldpgAqfvHWqh4-BgDD77ylFdOr17RX-e36-ZjUTRCeiUMHZ5gTjoFFsn_5FOfT4n0CCcAnX5t8fY/s1600/freedomtower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKRVjQqca7-N5k2GbVwBt41uECZxbjzjZkv9tgmyY-86DmEzNc8WXufqOKJdEcaFgldpgAqfvHWqh4-BgDD77ylFdOr17RX-e36-ZjUTRCeiUMHZ5gTjoFFsn_5FOfT4n0CCcAnX5t8fY/s200/freedomtower.jpg" width="200" /></a>One of the most beautiful, but chilling things we saw was the new Freedom Tower. It's magnificent but gave me goose bumps realizing that is where thousands of people lost their lives on 911. So sad. But New York really did a great job of memorializing this event. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqkujykKKfc7vy-jS74YoqOJAQersbDv3D2NJyS4pxwjtcH1itcZsApSubUJnZxewUiTRfxdvrJaJn6I1uUW7gXPhQtWi8Rzs6B6wM9RqiAhnWIW-r4F_jDrzzekB6upqwDz8CJBhpLeE/s1600/911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqkujykKKfc7vy-jS74YoqOJAQersbDv3D2NJyS4pxwjtcH1itcZsApSubUJnZxewUiTRfxdvrJaJn6I1uUW7gXPhQtWi8Rzs6B6wM9RqiAhnWIW-r4F_jDrzzekB6upqwDz8CJBhpLeE/s320/911.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The two waterfall holes where the actual towers stood, was magical. You may not be able to get the full affect from this photo but this is a waterfall with water running from all sides and down into the hole in the middle. Each person that lost their lives name is engraved on this memorial. You couldn't help but feel sorrowful but proud that we will never forget those people who died in that horrible tragedy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhax9WERPA627dnl7EQP7A0dYL6BJGo0dk1HXWsoz-xgnG60SlmAkXzdI1BDJXB_Z0ReZlIMAMpKMy3jXWjQ6tRFlv9e8XxiJ1kcyt71OgK6kjslA2P5JrfPfQ-X6KYcQTmq3SbA-X-D3g/s1600/reflectionoffreedomtower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhax9WERPA627dnl7EQP7A0dYL6BJGo0dk1HXWsoz-xgnG60SlmAkXzdI1BDJXB_Z0ReZlIMAMpKMy3jXWjQ6tRFlv9e8XxiJ1kcyt71OgK6kjslA2P5JrfPfQ-X6KYcQTmq3SbA-X-D3g/s200/reflectionoffreedomtower.jpg" width="200" /></a>This is a cool photo that is kind of "eerie." It's the reflection of the freedom tower from a building across the street. Neat. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyY0lqZZ8PIqb5-F-jJ_k8dk3jQYkLNxb9ZVLcUJYplOBbeoEbOJfTCZ8H1t3XJINVYJ-OfEOzcmc3UyTsUAlHOwIVMgc-ljp25pQ0L3L39hGNJjCGQoMGyBUrvFncMwx3jmgLOKDFFgo/s1600/churchinfrontof911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyY0lqZZ8PIqb5-F-jJ_k8dk3jQYkLNxb9ZVLcUJYplOBbeoEbOJfTCZ8H1t3XJINVYJ-OfEOzcmc3UyTsUAlHOwIVMgc-ljp25pQ0L3L39hGNJjCGQoMGyBUrvFncMwx3jmgLOKDFFgo/s200/churchinfrontof911.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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And as amazing as it was, here is a 200 yr. old church that sits right in front of the towers but was never damaged. Incredible!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxdDTWOsCdZPb1zgk1NjtzWQa8f_8pP4YKnsGaHLSq-45pEQIXwrbsYmMKRG0EaYOciZbUx1-zt0oDBJbK4G3DNL3QDfo6PSTOp-9KpsDVttX6yQq6avLu7F42HR9aKGKNxX26Vp7WVM/s1600/Yankee+Stadium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxdDTWOsCdZPb1zgk1NjtzWQa8f_8pP4YKnsGaHLSq-45pEQIXwrbsYmMKRG0EaYOciZbUx1-zt0oDBJbK4G3DNL3QDfo6PSTOp-9KpsDVttX6yQq6avLu7F42HR9aKGKNxX26Vp7WVM/s200/Yankee+Stadium.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
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A dream of my husbands was to step inside the Yankee Stadium and see a game. We did! And I even got to sit beside a very interesting couple who were from Australia. This was her first baseball game, ever!<br />
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Central Park was absolutely gorgeous. A lot of walking, but worth it.<br />
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This next photo, I don't remember exactly where it was but it's a tunnel waterfall. My husband is standing inside it. There is water on top and all sides flowing down. So cool!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOxUdGcKeYUr2bB0ZJcc-eVgvMROy056VwT_QxCyvytahXfpiuXilnQb9wbT-yKpeR03_flFOVQ4h20ASPU0PzbzaclvnDV3L4aPopdZfImA8vyzKEoo3sISlZ2-qr-vpokc3ANIEGkKM/s1600/grand+central2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOxUdGcKeYUr2bB0ZJcc-eVgvMROy056VwT_QxCyvytahXfpiuXilnQb9wbT-yKpeR03_flFOVQ4h20ASPU0PzbzaclvnDV3L4aPopdZfImA8vyzKEoo3sISlZ2-qr-vpokc3ANIEGkKM/s320/grand+central2.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLFOVupSgXyL_p6mONh71ALVc_I2bxkwXhH1if07eX3PayX8Kro63fmTRNuAR9Qh_O6QGIkQai7Z2vej5VtthBTwcn0FtFMcOvnzdQWrqXQ02e2nvb5lEtnX6-5_XznXInnZog3KDZ8Ac/s1600/grand+central.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLFOVupSgXyL_p6mONh71ALVc_I2bxkwXhH1if07eX3PayX8Kro63fmTRNuAR9Qh_O6QGIkQai7Z2vej5VtthBTwcn0FtFMcOvnzdQWrqXQ02e2nvb5lEtnX6-5_XznXInnZog3KDZ8Ac/s200/grand+central.jpg" width="150" /></a>The last place we went to was Grand Central Station. It was cool but I was a bit disappointed. I guess I've seen too many movies with it in there. I expected benches in the middle where people were waiting for their trains, there were none. I expected to hear the choo choo of trains, I heard nothing but the masses of people moving about. But it was still exciting to know I was there!</div>
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Lots and lots of fun stuff to see in New York. I especially enjoyed seeing the Lion King musical and a comedy play called Shear Madness. One of my most exciting moments was when I got to look through the window at the Good Morning America studio and saw Amy, Robin, George and Lara. I watch them every morning while I wake up and drink my coffee. So it was great to see them and the studio in the flesh. However, they sure make everything look bigger on TV!</div>
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The crowds of people in Times Square was unbelievable. I thought New Orleans and Chicago were nuts, but they are nothing compared to Times Square. I felt like I was in the center of Mardi Gras in New Orleans and that is a mess, let me tell ya! We did NOT enjoy the people everywhere part of Times Square at all or the traffic. But I was very surprised how nice all the people were who actually lived there like the restaurant people, hotel people, etc. etc. And for a person who has lived in Louisiana and Texas where people hug you after meeting you once, that is saying something!</div>
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We loved our adventure but there's nothing like getting back to our "Home Sweet Home" and hug our doggies.</div>
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Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-69378467090181102012016-05-05T10:38:00.000-05:002016-05-05T10:38:26.706-05:00Happy Mother's DayFirst off, I'd like to let everyone know that I am now offering critiquing services for picture book manuscripts. Picture books are my passion and I would love to help others polish up their stories and get them ready to send off to publishers. Click on my Critiquing and Design Services tab for more information.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWBaYr7sM7yWoEZPMeo9APqt8LqpZEIdyqYm2ogTvagPBp84ShLB7Xd9VZTZFCpfb7oPWnLuLuTQtOj9UCDmSAPRoBG5pQ02EKXIkEugUZKvPujm69-G8y7ga3hXyLYJAKNssP1YTRA1Y/s1600/mothers-day-quotes-10.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWBaYr7sM7yWoEZPMeo9APqt8LqpZEIdyqYm2ogTvagPBp84ShLB7Xd9VZTZFCpfb7oPWnLuLuTQtOj9UCDmSAPRoBG5pQ02EKXIkEugUZKvPujm69-G8y7ga3hXyLYJAKNssP1YTRA1Y/s320/mothers-day-quotes-10.png" width="320" /></a>But more importantly, Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there, especially my own mother and mother-in-law. My mom had a rough week last week but came through it like a champ. It's great to hear her talk about plans for the future and all the things she has to look forward to. My mom is a strong woman who knows who she is and has always made her children feel loved. We've had our differences in life but have always overcome them and become closer. Now that we have our writing in common, we have tons to talk about and constantly give each other encouragement. My mother has always had faith in her kids and never failed at giving us the confidence we needed to conquer our fears. I love you mom!<br />
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I admire my mom and also my mother-in-law. Even though neither she nor my own mom were crazy about my husband and I getting married, she has always welcomed me into her home and made me feel like a part of her family. Her love and support have been very precious to me and I am one of the lucky people who wouldn't trade my mother-in-law for anyone! I love you too, Vi!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWVmVh4R02NAg0iB60hvcLh4DfcxWe6gjm5aaYiqYqlldu1rf6fB4sig03hn_7yXGO2R-bCUs3YfioDTYdq9RorLQIeXW2L1T23aIUpdlz8himO_FYG-n1mcNRchLEF2X-FJTPFgMShns/s1600/DSC02520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWVmVh4R02NAg0iB60hvcLh4DfcxWe6gjm5aaYiqYqlldu1rf6fB4sig03hn_7yXGO2R-bCUs3YfioDTYdq9RorLQIeXW2L1T23aIUpdlz8himO_FYG-n1mcNRchLEF2X-FJTPFgMShns/s320/DSC02520.JPG" width="320" /></a>Mother's are a special breed. Not everyone is cracked up to be one and even those that are mother's, may not do it well. But if you have love in your heart for your child (or pets, in my case) and they feel that love, than in my opinion that's the most important part of mothering. Even when my own mother and I disagreed or got in an argument about something, there has never been a moment when I doubted her love for me or my siblings. And that love has carried us all through some difficult times.<br />
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To all of us who are fortunate enough to still have our mother's, let's give them an extra big hug this year. And to those that have lost their mother's, blow a kiss towards heaven, I'm sure they're waiting for it!<br />
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<br />Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-44692656540920560152016-04-06T11:00:00.001-05:002016-04-07T09:29:09.257-05:00Retirement: Beauty or Family?I can't believe where the time has gone! I still feel like my husband and I are in our 30's but the truth is, we are way past that age. We are within 2-3 yrs of retirement.<br />
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Retirement is something we dream of all our lives! No more working. No one to boss us around except each other. Freedom to do exactly what we want! But the fact is, retirement is scary. Oh the no working part sounds wonderful but the fact that we won't have the same income we have coming in now, is frightening. So is the fact that we are living the last quarter of our lives.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT6JRDkDkHuLJeNG2lx-Xn66Cjgh1_dW9YvBqOmjGAIExe6u-dR7dC3f4Q4eoWAZyF35KbRCj7RbrGBlW2Y1Jz0cA_5bP_O5VQhHRabP6Won-cn9ezy04yT2JKnHd2Ag5avITgbtBnnN0/s1600/Scale4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT6JRDkDkHuLJeNG2lx-Xn66Cjgh1_dW9YvBqOmjGAIExe6u-dR7dC3f4Q4eoWAZyF35KbRCj7RbrGBlW2Y1Jz0cA_5bP_O5VQhHRabP6Won-cn9ezy04yT2JKnHd2Ag5avITgbtBnnN0/s200/Scale4.jpg" width="200" /></a>My husband and I have a big decision to make. Where to live? We are not from Louisiana, we just live here because of his job. I hate the summer weather down here so I'll be darned if I'm going to spend the last part of my life suffering in this heat!<br />
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We are both from the same town, Edgerton, Ohio. The winters are brutal up there, at least for my husband as he hates the snow and cold. But that's where most of his family still live.<br />
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My dream is to retire someplace beautiful. I've always wanted a home where I could look out my back window and see hills, water, or trees. The view from our last few houses have just been the tops of peoples roofs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmBoiGoBcKTPUKzPVM0R3HSv-1sfygXW4mfTSGgXBqcneTKvp6cC401u_OZBS40JM_r1Zq0NJMSHMLhZKd4cGt4A2YzZIAoUNAgWE83y26NNjWm_K3x8yXO7YT8itPx5D412m_1fVGek/s1600/smokies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmBoiGoBcKTPUKzPVM0R3HSv-1sfygXW4mfTSGgXBqcneTKvp6cC401u_OZBS40JM_r1Zq0NJMSHMLhZKd4cGt4A2YzZIAoUNAgWE83y26NNjWm_K3x8yXO7YT8itPx5D412m_1fVGek/s320/smokies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
We've contemplated and made a few trips to Tennessee between Chattanooga and Knoxville areas to look for a place to retire and found a few areas we love. It's certainly beautiful there with all the scenery on my wish list. And it's at least 8 hrs. closer to his family and mine. However, for the umpteenth time in our lives, we'd have to start all over from scratch. With no family or friends around. We've been doing this for 35 yrs. now because of his job transfers. And it's gotten mighty old.<br />
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Our dilemma is, do we want to do it AGAIN!!?? Today, we are thinking not. It's on our minds that we should move closer to Edgerton. Maybe 1 hr. or so away. That way whenever there is a Stotz family event...we can actually attend. Plus we both have people in the area that we still consider good friends and would love getting together with them once in awhile.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuRHdmGaV4WXkJxjDRkvPjbtwbx356WHNRNmcSKFALRAa4DYYEQlPoDDjFoN-Ek8p-Tj7O-eLFACop69-OEy7N-GPAdYU4PbvjBuPTkdY7Bw3h0Q7P59hKiNf_xl44TMListqM7Ows53U/s1600/edgerton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuRHdmGaV4WXkJxjDRkvPjbtwbx356WHNRNmcSKFALRAa4DYYEQlPoDDjFoN-Ek8p-Tj7O-eLFACop69-OEy7N-GPAdYU4PbvjBuPTkdY7Bw3h0Q7P59hKiNf_xl44TMListqM7Ows53U/s320/edgerton.jpg" width="320" /></a>But...you knew there would be a but didn't you? But, I would have to give up my dream of hills and probably water, plus the mild weather that Tennessee offers. Ohio and surrounding areas are as flat as Louisiana. Pretty farm country, but we aren't farm people. And my husband would have to deal with freezing to death.<br />
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So although we are excited for retirement, we are also soooooooooo confused!<br />
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I'm curious to see what some of you would do. Would you give up your dream of beautiful scenery and gorgeous mild weather or would you give that dream up to be nearer family and friends?<br />
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<br />Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-38109082911379773832016-03-24T09:47:00.002-05:002016-03-24T09:47:51.981-05:00Staying UphillI have to face facts. I've been in a downhill funk with my writing for over a year now. My dad passed away February 2015 and ever since then, I've been finding it extremely hard to write. My whole 2015 felt like I was walking around in a tear filled fog that went by so quickly, I barely remember it.<br />
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All in all, I didn't do much writing last year but have regained my momentum, somewhat. However, for 2016 I am trying to spend my main focus on promoting the books that I have published versus concentrating so much on getting another manuscript accepted. This year, I have two more picture books coming out so I need to find more productive ways of promoting myself.<br />
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But it's a constant struggle. I am not a sales or marketing person so selling myself is extremely hard. I've been trying all that I know, but that isn't much. And it's not paying off very well. I've spent some money this year on advertising, but so far, that isn't paying off either.<br />
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I'm almost convinced that you have to be someone to sell a book. It's very disheartening since I'm a complete unknown nobody! Most of the people I know, which isn't many, have been sweet enough to support me but it's the ones that I don't know that I can't seem to reach. Being a writer is a constant uphill, downhill battle and the saying that "you really have to love it to do it" is absolutely spot on! I do love most things about this business and I worked extremely hard to get to where I'm at today, so I don't intend on ever giving up. I just need to find a formula that will work for me so I can climb the hill back up!<br />
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One of the biggest rewards in this business of writing for children for me is when I see a child who loves my books. When I'm at a book signing and a child comes up and loves the way my books look and their little face lights up when I tell them what it's about, is all the clarity I need to convince myself this is my calling. I'm doing this for a reason! No matter how frustrating it gets.<br />
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Last week was a bad one for me. I was feeling defeated and depressed after working on my taxes. Well who doesn't, right? Anyway, it didn't last long because I received two beautiful photo's that brightened my day. This first one is my great nephew, Lincoln. He just got a new baby sister so I sent her a "welcome to the world" gift but didn't want to leave little Lincoln out. So I sent him my newest picture book, Cookies for Punch, along with some pretend dog ears to play like he was turning into a dog like the character in my book. Poor little Lincoln was born almost 2 years ago very prematurely. He spent the first few months of his life in the hospital. But he's a strong boy and bounced back with the speed of lightening! He has quite the personality too, one in which picture books should model their character by (and yes, my little mind is brewing up ideas). Anyway, to see him doing so well and enjoying my book so much, makes everything I had to do to get that book published, more than worthwhile.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Z5Vuzh794hIeNnhOGaa4I43pDA61zydYjqhu7WDHPgGCWknHcLUwj2l-NL1vOW9IMhuJMxp3S_0Ihf6zTzEisFMkqIHTKRL9ZChYjkbTmK4_ETgGPTsiRCRbp44PnJvp1o5SQCEe2l8/s1600/Lincoln+with+dog+ears.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Z5Vuzh794hIeNnhOGaa4I43pDA61zydYjqhu7WDHPgGCWknHcLUwj2l-NL1vOW9IMhuJMxp3S_0Ihf6zTzEisFMkqIHTKRL9ZChYjkbTmK4_ETgGPTsiRCRbp44PnJvp1o5SQCEe2l8/s400/Lincoln+with+dog+ears.jpg" width="220" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Isn't he the cutest!!</span></td></tr>
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<br />This second photo is the grandson of my friend, Deborah Lynne. I don't know him personally, but feel like I do from everything his grandma has told me about him. Thanks for letting her take your photo, Eli!!<div>
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I just wanted to share all of this with any of you writers out there that might be feeling frustrated. You aren't alone, Not one bit. I think even the most successful authors have these same uphill, downhill battles. So don't give up. Any reward you might receive, even a photo, will show you that it's all worth it.</div>
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Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-40849721935137138172016-03-03T08:04:00.000-06:002016-03-03T08:04:28.352-06:00Spotlight on Children's Author, Maria AshworthI'm so pleased to be bringing to your attention a new children's picture book author, Maria Ashworth. I sat beside her at a recent book signing event and was so impressed with her work that I wanted to feature her on my blog.<br />
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Here is what she had to say about her new book <i><b>Step One, Step Two, Step Three, and Four,</b></i> her process, and what made her write this very entertaining story.<br />
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">A young girl's world is turned upside-down when her mother tells
her she's getting remarried. Along with the ring comes a few more, Step One,
Step Two, Step Three and Four. The girl will do whatever it takes to keep the
"steps" out of her life. She eventually realizes there are
some benefits to her new blended family.<br />
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This picture book was nominated as a finalist in the picture book category for
the 2012 National Association of Elementary School Principals contest. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi2eWiL8a3NeRQ3Nn4-AiEKOZY54TzWMwoGCSHzr9RL0S8824oZ2gITb8JQxefRg-4MaYfQV0NLXkCdvQCI774IQ_bjcyk7ZWZ1qlSNdJpqDNiRkoMypyc-g0A6oq6_DcfxrGuXknqCXE/s1600/family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi2eWiL8a3NeRQ3Nn4-AiEKOZY54TzWMwoGCSHzr9RL0S8824oZ2gITb8JQxefRg-4MaYfQV0NLXkCdvQCI774IQ_bjcyk7ZWZ1qlSNdJpqDNiRkoMypyc-g0A6oq6_DcfxrGuXknqCXE/s320/family.jpg" width="216" /></a><span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I divorced after 18 years of marriage. It was devastating for the
kids and me but we managed through it. My two kids didn’t mind me dating, and I
didn’t think blending children would be an issue. I met a man who had five
kids. When my daughter saw the seriousness of the relationship things changed.
She didn’t want step-siblings touching her things, sharing her bathroom much
less her mom. We married despite her reservations. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I viewed libraries and bookstores looking for books on blending
families. They had books on having a new mommy or daddy, or living in two
houses. But none touched the subject of blending children. I didn’t plan on
writing a book but tried my hand at making her a little story about her
transition. I showed it to my husband and he thought I had something. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">My
daughter beamed because now there was a story about her transition. We blended our
children before the story got put into a book.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhykDVlIELhVyXWCu85FdQ7RpWixRQcgZ3_HawDujhlhU9xU2ftrQsbPcOkFwSsyvtb9p13mcp7IIf1g85WXItE2pebGTDgOSz8ibyVQklrpliyK2SiuiYdU3zmiH5Gc62_Btx9opJXths/s1600/Mariaanddaughter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhykDVlIELhVyXWCu85FdQ7RpWixRQcgZ3_HawDujhlhU9xU2ftrQsbPcOkFwSsyvtb9p13mcp7IIf1g85WXItE2pebGTDgOSz8ibyVQklrpliyK2SiuiYdU3zmiH5Gc62_Btx9opJXths/s320/Mariaanddaughter.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">She adjusted early on and
learned there were some good things about having these step kids. She realized
she could boss them around, dress them up and when in a bind, blame stuff on
them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I wrote it lyrically to make it more appealing. I tried it in
prose and it didn’t feel right to me. The book emphasizes sharing, caring and
acceptance. I wrote the book to make children understand that it’s not all bad.
That there will be an adjustment period but your parent will always be your
parent. And they will always love you. No one will take that away from them. I
wanted them to see that things can change for the better. That some good can
come from it. The unknown can be pretty scary especially in children. The book
can help with the transition. I believe Step One, Step Two, Step Three and Four
has a place on a shelf in every household whether blended or not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I had always had a love for writing since I was young. I didn’t
take it seriously until I journaled my divorce. I thought that women would
really benefit from my story. There is an empowerment to my journey. Right
after, Step One, Step Two, Step Three and Four was born. I told myself then
that I was going to get serious about my writing career. And my husband was
behind it. I became a member of SCBWI in 2009. My first conference was in
Houston/Katy, Texas. It put the fire in my belly. A week later I formed a
weekly critique group with other writers. We’re 7 years strong with a lot of
success stories under our belt. I acquired an agent two years ago. She worked
on getting TOMMY JAMES and MY BIG TREE into a house. TOMMY JAMES went to the
editor’s round table. So close but no contract. I know one day TJ and the rest
of my manuscripts WILL be in picture books soon. I’m agent free now and
independently published. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">All my stories come from experience. I have forty-eight
manuscripts waiting to get in the hands for children and adults to read. I love
to tell stories and can’t see myself doing anything else. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Purchase on Amazon: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Step-One-Two-Three-Four/dp/1523417412/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456421280&sr=8-1&keywords=step+one%2C+step+two+step+three+and+four" target="_blank">http://www.amazon.com/Step-One-Two-Three-Four/dp/1523417412/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456421280&sr=8-1&keywords=step+one%2C+step+two+step+three+and+four</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Purchase on: <a href="http://www.mariaashworth.com/" target="_blank">www.mariaashworth.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Book trailer: https://youtu.be/eVdHfhrLmvg</span><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 9.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><i>Allyn's Review</i></b></span></u></div>
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I’m so impressed with this first time author, Maria
Ashworth’s debut picture book, Step One, Step Two, Step Three, and Four. I
would give this a huge 5 star rating.</div>
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Not only is this an important story for any blended family,
but it’s also just fun. Written in rhyme, the author gets a strong message
across that things aren’t as bad as they might first seem. In fact, life can be
even better than it was before!</div>
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At first, the little girl is terribly worried that her mom
is going to get married and she’s just not sure she likes this new man named,
Larry. “What’ll happen to our family of two?” She likes the attention centered
on her. What if this new man has boys to bring in to the family? “There’d be
frogs and worms, smelly socks and disgusting germs!”</div>
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With colorful and detailed illustrations, this charming
story made me laugh. It also had a very satisfying and fun ending.</div>
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I not only highly recommend this adorable picture book to
anyone who might be introducing their children into a blended family, but to anyone
who enjoys a well written and funny read.</div>
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Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-7469949935524169892016-02-18T09:49:00.001-06:002016-02-18T09:49:06.060-06:00The Fifteen Minute RuleAs I was sitting down drinking my morning cup of "wake up" coffee and watching Good Morning America (that's also my wake-up coffee), they were featuring a story about Shonda Rhimes. This really hit a cord with me. You all know who she is, right? The creator of so many wonderful shows like Greys Anatomy, Scandal and How to Get Away With Murder.<br />
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Shonda surprised me by saying she absolutely loves her job but even she has lost her passion for writing once in awhile. What!? You mean she is "kinda" normal like the rest of us writers? Hard to believe someone so rich, famous and talented could have dry spells.<br />
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What she said made so much sense. She was spending far too many hours working, even though she loved it, and not enough time playing.<br />
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I'm a firm believer in playing, in fact I probably play too often, but I know people who don't. She said one day, after she'd had a very long dry spell, her children asked her to play with them. It was then that she realized, even though she didn't want to stop and spend time playing, that her children would play with her for fifteen minutes and then move on to something else. So she took that fifteen minutes and afterwards, she felt revived.<br />
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I believe everyone could learn an important lesson from her words. If we would all take fifteen minutes a day to do something that brings us joy and makes us happy, we would feel so much more alive. And feeling alive is what ultimately drives our passion.<br />
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With me, since I don't have real children, I take my play children (my dogs) to the dog park. Well this takes more than fifteen minutes, but not much more since the park is close to my home. I get such pleasure watching my dogs and the other dogs run and play that it really does revive my happy self.<br />
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There are many times that my dogs want me to stop what I'm doing and play ball with them but I don't do it cause I'm busy! Well from now on, I will stop, take that fifteen minutes to play, and then carry on with my day. (can they read? They just brought me the ball and put it at my feet. Sigh)<br />
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Studies show that people who commit murders or terrorism played little to none when they were children. That tells me a lot.<br />
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So from now on, let's all try to remember the fifteen minute rule and go have some fun!<br />
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Here is the Good Morning article if you'd like to listen to it. It will take LESS than fifteen minutes!<br />
http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/video/shonda-rhimes-handles-parenting-work-37017578<br />
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<br />Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-43374437909690195732016-02-04T09:06:00.000-06:002016-02-04T09:06:31.120-06:00What About The Ending?When I write my picture books, I almost always know exactly how I want the story to end. Or at least I have a good idea. In fact, many of my stories I've actually known the ending first. I know what message I want to convey to children and many times, I've written the ending line before I even have a title or beginning sentence.<br />
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Picture Books are short and sweet and quick to end so I've always felt I needed to know that ending before my brain can know what to write about.<br />
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I've recently had my fifth picture book published and have four more waiting in the wings. My Halloween story, <i>Pumpkin Squash</i> is due to be published sometime this year before Halloween.<br />
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Picture Books are my passion, however I feel like I'm ready to branch out. When I first began my writing journey, I started with the idea that I'd write a MG Chapter Book. Beginning that story is when I discovered writing is really a blast! And that I may have a talent for it. I always was a good story teller when I was growing up so why not begin putting my stories on paper.<br />
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However, I stalled out in the middle of the story. That's when I began researching Picture Books and signed up for a class. I immediately fell in love with writing those types of stories.<br />
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But it's time to get back to my chapter book. I want to have more to offer readers other than just books for small children.<br />
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My dilemna is, I don't know how to end the story! And after writing so many picture books, it is really throwing me for a loop.<br />
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Therefore, I have a question for all you novel writers out there. Do you always know how you want the story to end? Or do you just let the words flow and discover the end as you go along?<br />
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<br />Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-53984468365954529982016-01-21T15:44:00.001-06:002016-01-21T15:44:28.716-06:00Spotlight on Sue the Mingo goes to Mardi Gras<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfikMWqweSHgrVPpej5VcdqWPHruu2_HBIy1VLXi8xChM9EgtPoB_Vpk8nSZb85lppIYrK7g6KXqGVSnBVS3oQ2stf6BEDnx3ROF2qo4_wuosrogr0AMxt7FE4wdDZVMexKgwLXxlUb_Q/s1600/Cover2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfikMWqweSHgrVPpej5VcdqWPHruu2_HBIy1VLXi8xChM9EgtPoB_Vpk8nSZb85lppIYrK7g6KXqGVSnBVS3oQ2stf6BEDnx3ROF2qo4_wuosrogr0AMxt7FE4wdDZVMexKgwLXxlUb_Q/s320/Cover2.png" width="236" /></a><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This is the second book in W.J. Smith, Jr’s series for children.
The first book, "Sue The 'Mingo" was released in July of 2014. Sue is
a flamingo with a colorful imagination! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">These children's books, locally produced and written
by Livingston Parish resident W.J Smith, Jr., target a pre-school to early elementary
school aged audience. These large format paperbacks feature colorful art (by
Kev Allen also a Louisiana native) and rhyming stories that are fun to read out
loud, again and again!</span><span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><i>A little history about how Sue the Mingo series came about:</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">When 2-year-old Kristian Smith visited the zoo with her family a few years ago she became enchanted with the pink flamingos and insisted on calling a flamingo a 'mingo. Her parents thought it was cute, and although the new word became part of the family's vocabulary, it didn't cross her dad's mind then that it would be the inspiration for a children's book he would author.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">W.J. "Bill" Smith, Jr., of Watson, Louisiana, explained, "I always had the idea that I wanted to write a book, and when my father passed away three years ago, it made me think about my own mortality. I told my wife that I didn't want to wind up at the end of my life with a list of things I didn't do." His wife Cessely "Cissy" Smith asked what he wanted to do, and when he replied, "Write a book," she simply stated, "Then do it!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">“I thought, well, why
not?” he said, “and then, ‘Why not now?’ I decided I wasn’t going to put it off
anymore. Win lose draw, I would give it a shot.” </span><span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">And so he set about
writing, with the encouragement of Cissy, Kristian, who he says is now
“8-years-oldgoing- on-20,” and son Patrick, 15. Recalling Kristian’s ‘mingo
misnomer, Smith decided to write a children’s book about a flamingo named Sue
who would have the same “sassy” personality as his daughter. “Choosing to write
a book for children just felt right </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">to me. I created Sue the
’Mingo because I wanted the book to have some relevance to my family. If
Kristian was an animal she would want to be a flamingo!” he laughed.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Smith proceeded to write
the book and learned a lot about the process of publishing. He estimates it
took about 11 months from developing the concept for the </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">book to having it printed.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12pt;">“Sue the ‘Mingo” is
about a color-obsessed pink flamingo who contemplates what it would be like to
be a different color. It’s entertaining with its catchy rhythmic rhymes and
colorful illustrations and along the way also teaches colors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Once it was written, he
passed it around to family and friends, and everyone encouraged him to get it published.
He eventually decided to self-publish through local printers after discussing
it with other authors. “I really wanted to go ahead and get it published without
the delay of submitting it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; line-height: 115%;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">My Review</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sue
the Mingo goes to Mardi Gras </span></i></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">is a cute rhyming
picture book for children.<b><i> </i></b>Sue, the pink flamingo, is color
obsessed and dreams of what it would be like to be other colors.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Kids will get a kick out of this book and learn what
colors are prominent in New Orleans, especially during Mardi Gras.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The illustrations could be bigger with more vivid
detail but all in all, they are enjoyable. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Most children, and adults for that matter, are
fascinated with pink flamingos. Therefore, I have no doubt they will love going
on an adventure with Sue the Mingo!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Both books are available at Cavalier House Books in
Denham Springs, Louisiana; at The Idea Station in Watson, Louisiana; Oak Point Supermarket in Watson
and Central, and at our Website www.suethemingo.com.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-72496473362760911872016-01-07T09:36:00.000-06:002016-01-07T09:36:02.666-06:00Facebook HoaxHappy 2016! I hope everyone had a wonderful, safe and happy holiday season. But now I'm depressed. I hate when it's all over. Sure it's a bit stressful and crazy during the holidays but I love the feeling inside that I get during that time of the year. I love that it's something different and exciting. Then when it's all over, it's just back to normal and it's so hum drum to me! But it is what it is.<br />
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As I was wondering what to write about this morning, I got an instant message through Facebook from my sister. I thought this was very odd since I've never gotten one from her before. We just email each other all the time. So I didn't answer her, instead I sent her an email asking her if she'd sent me one.<br />
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Now, why should I have to do that? Why should I be skeptical? The answer is because Facebook is getting to be a huge hoax for the rotten people in this world. Don't get me wrong, Facebook is a fantastic means to stay in touch with old friends, family, writing connection<br />
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s and all kinds of good reasons. But it has gotten out of hand.<br />
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In the last six months or so, I've been getting all excited because I get a message every morning telling me I have 1 new like and 4 new views. Huh? Everyday? How can that be? It's because someone out there is viewing our pages and trying to steal our accounts.<br />
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Also in the last six months, I've received a bunch of friend requests from people I'm already friends with, however it's always someone I'm not quite sure of. And instead of double checking to see if I'm already friends, I just accept. Then I instantly get a message from them saying "Hello, how are you?" When I got the first one, I thought <i>How odd</i>. But I answered back. One person said this, "I've been busy trying to win the lottery." I thought <i>why do I care that this person I've never really talked to is playing the lottery and why are they telling me this?</i><br />
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So I wondered if this was some kind of hoax. So although I never really spoke to this person, they owned an ezine that I sent a story into so I asked them how the ezine was going. Then they said fine but spelled the name of their magazine wrong. I immediately knew something was up. Especially when they asked ME how long they'd been in business!! So I immediately deleted them.<br />
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Anyway, I've received several of these but have learned to never accept another friend request without checking to see if we're already friends.<br />
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I wanted to pass this on to anyone out there that may not know about this hoax. Never accept a friend request without checking first. One sure sign is if it's someone you think you may already be friends with and they only have a couple of friends themselves. It's a sure sign.<br />
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I don't know why these people are doing this or what their trying to accomplish but my guess is they are trying to get people's personal info or trying to get them to send money.<br />
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What I don't understand is why Facebook can't do something about this? They take it upon themselves to decide what posts we might want to see and from whom, but they can't stop these types of hoax's from happening? It's so irritating that I'm friends with all these people, but facebook only lets me see certain peoples posts because they want to control that!<br />
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If I didn't need facebook to help market my books, I'd be off it. It would make me sad because I do love when things go right and I can stay in touch with people I wouldn't ordinarily have a chance to communicate with, but it's really getting more of a hassle than it's worth.<br />
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How do you feel about it?Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-72528515161022412912015-12-17T10:44:00.000-06:002015-12-17T10:44:43.997-06:00Merry ChristmasHappy Holidays everyone! And I do hope you all have a peaceful, safe, memorable, and happy Christmas season.<br />
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Sometimes this time of year can be extra stressful for people. I admit, there's a lot to get done for us women who handle every single detail of the holiday. The shopping, the wrapping, the shipping, the baking, the cooking, the decorating, and the clean up. But I love every minute of it...well most of it anyway. However, it's usually just my husband and I so I don't have near the stress that most families have. I still do it all, and wonder why most times, but I really don't have to please anyone else but myself. At least with the decorating anyway. My husband says he could care less. But I don't really believe him. ha<br />
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Those of you who have family to spend the holidays with, try to destress a little. Take lots of deep breaths and remember, you're doing all this hard work for people you love. But you also need to take care of yourself while working your fingers to the bone!<br />
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I miss the days of spending Christmas with my family. We always had the best times. Our parents always went all out this time of year. We had tons of candy, cookies and all the goodies. Christmas lights and music were always important to us. When we lived in our small town of Edgerton, Ohio we even went caroling a few times. Driving around looking at the lights was one of my fondest memories with my family. My husband and I make sure to do that every year as well.<br />
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But as years pass, you and your family have kids and everyone gets older and involved in their own lives, it's really hard to get everyone together. My family is spread out and it's just too difficult to get us all together. I wish with all my heart that we had had one last Christmas all together before my dad passed away this year. He wouldn't have really realized what was going on but it would've still meant the world to him and especially my mom. We will all be missing him terribly this year but I know he will be singing his favorite Christmas carols up in heaven.<br />
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Christmas is a magical time of year especially for the kids in this world. Let's all try to enjoy it and come back in 2016 with even more love in our hearts and hope for the future.<br />
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<br />Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-85052173705251160972015-12-03T10:57:00.000-06:002015-12-03T10:57:02.930-06:00Guns and Books!I hope everyone's Thanksgiving was great! Mine was quiet but nice. However, today I'm very saddened and distressed over yet another shooting, this one in California, and loss of innocent lives. When is it ever going to stop? It's sickening to have to be afraid when going to a movie or any other public place anymore.<br />
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I'm a big believer in making stricter gun laws. I don't believe in hunting for sport because I love animals too much. To me it's senseless to kill one just for fun. Or even for meat when we live in a world where we can buy what we need to live on at the store. However, I'm not a vegetarian. I'll eat meat from a store because I have no control over animals who've already been killed, if that makes sense.<br />
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Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against people who hunt for sport, it's their choice. I just will never do it myself!<br />
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Anyway, to me there is no reason for anyone to have a gun except to kill. That's what guns are made for so why do we all need one? Why is it so easy to get one? I especially think if you live in this country, but are not a U.S. Citizen, you should not be allowed to own a gun. I also believe this for any country. U.S. Citizens should not be allowed to carry a gun to another country either. In my little brain, only law enforcement, defenders of our country, and people who work to keep us safe should be allowed to own a gun.<br />
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<b><u>But that's just MY opinion so please don't anyone get upset</u></b>. Everyone's entitled to how they feel so I'm just expressing my own views.<br />
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Okay, now on to something that I hope everyone will agree with me on! My newest picture book, <i><b>Cookies for Punch</b></i> has just been released by Guardian Angel Publishing and I couldn't be more excited! I've waited a long hard time for this one to come out. It's one of my very first stories and one that I'm very proud of. It's also about my dog, Punch so that makes it extra special. He's been bugging me for years to hurry up and get this published! So now it's finally here! Contact me at allyn_stotz@yahoo.com if you'd like a copy.<br />
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Also, I'm participating in the SCBWI Book Launch party for my other picture book just released in September, <i><b>The Color of Love</b></i>. I'd love for you to check it out and sign up for my contest. You have a chance to win an autographed copy of the book or a critique of your picture book manuscript. Stop on by at: <a href="https://www.scbwi.org/display-book-launch-party/?id=363804">https://www.scbwi.org/display-book-launch-party/?id=363804</a><br />
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I'd also like to let everyone know about my mom and sisters fantastic news. They have just released a new book of holiday short stories. The book is titled Holiday Connections. Each story involves a major holiday and they are all great stories that leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside. If you'd like a copy, contact me at allyn_stotz@yahoo.com and I'll get you hooked up!<br />
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Thanks for stopping by and I'm going to use Ellen's favorite line, "Be kind to one another!"<br />
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<br />Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-79563733744309212572015-11-05T10:01:00.001-06:002015-11-05T10:02:36.438-06:00A Writing Prompt for FallNow that Halloween has come and gone, that means the busy holiday season is approaching us quickly. I don't know about you, but it's very hard for me to stay focused or find the time to do much writing with all the hustle and bustle of things to do during this time. And coming up with ideas to write about is difficult this time of year too as our minds are on the gazillion things we have to get done.<br />
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So instead of spending countless hours trying to come up with something new and exciting to write on my blog or wasting time staring at my blank screen, I decided to treat myself and look up fall pictures on the internet. Since I live down south, we don't get to see the leaves change so seeing all the beautiful fall colors online is especially breath taking for me. But, I wanted to find something interesting but "eerie" looking that would get all of our creative juices flowing.<br />
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Take a look at this photo and have some fun with it. Can you come up with a storyline? If so, tell us about it!<br />
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<br />Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-22733452341275333252015-10-23T08:58:00.000-05:002015-10-23T08:58:38.039-05:00I Want To Be A DogWhile I was walking with my dogs around the dog park this morning, I realized something. I want to be a dog!!! Boy do they have it good.<br />
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They get to run and play without a care or worry in the world. They don't have to worry about the fact that their big book signing coming up this weekend is probably going to get rained out. They don't have to worry about what their fixing for dinner tonight. Or that they are getting older and have to go through watching their parents age. They don't have to worry about having enough candy for trick-or-treaters or that their husbands job is restructuring for the millionth time and he may end up unemployed. The biggest worry my dog, Punch has is getting too far away from her idol, Beemer (our other dog). And the only worry, Beemer has is how to get on the other side of the trail so the dog coming up to her won't sniff her rear!! <br />
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That's right, she's a dog but she's not a normal dog. She doesn't like to go outdoors without a human with her, she can't take a nap without peeing in her sleep, and she doesn't like other dogs. Here she is this little tiny thing showing her teeth whenever another dog comes up to her. Like they are afraid of her!!<br />
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Then there's, Punch. He loves everyone and everything. He never met a stranger.<br />
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Going to the dog park is extremely good for my mood and gives me tons of inspiration for writing kids books. To me there is nothing more joyous than watching all the doggies running and having a great time. Just like you parents out there enjoy watching your kids at the kiddy park, well that's how I feel watching my four legged kids.<br />
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We should all take a tip from our pets and stop stressing about everything. Why don't we just take a walk and chill out like they do? Or find a friend to play with and smile. And maybe if we're real good, someone will give us a treat! Yep...I want to be a dog.<br />
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<br />Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-11345877839700819812015-10-15T08:42:00.001-05:002015-10-15T08:43:43.170-05:00Surround Youself with Writing BuddiesWriting is no different than anything else that we enjoy, it's always better with a partner. Someone to share the ups and downs with because anyone who has tried to get a book published knows there are tons of obstacles to cross.<br />
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And some of those obstacles are really difficult to deal with by yourself. Especially rejections, which are a plenty for most writers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRLiAcHZPKwo3u_A1XKIgPLPcqq0_DBqT4XXYmfP_CLijJ8fUmX5kUREIA7pNJht7xSjFfSZUU_vib-w7p1wDYDFrRFlOWxD7DX29SdjOyYBKPw7q9nWrgbD7yYQzZ0lEiOENFZbMEkKg/s1600/5e38c8392583e191763502fda9249178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRLiAcHZPKwo3u_A1XKIgPLPcqq0_DBqT4XXYmfP_CLijJ8fUmX5kUREIA7pNJht7xSjFfSZUU_vib-w7p1wDYDFrRFlOWxD7DX29SdjOyYBKPw7q9nWrgbD7yYQzZ0lEiOENFZbMEkKg/s320/5e38c8392583e191763502fda9249178.jpg" width="198" /></a>When I was early into my writing career, a very wise person told me to make sure I join a critique group. I was very skeptical about that because I just wasn't sure I could even write, let alone ready to let anyone else see what I'd written. But being in a critique group has really been beneficial. It definitely opened my eyes and proved to me that I wasn't so bad at this afterall! Plus, I've learned so much from them.<br />
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I thank God for my critique group, my writer's group, all my writing friends especially Courtney Rene who helps me everyday in some way, my book signing partner in crime, Deborah Lynne but most of all my mom/sis who are also writers. Having them to discuss my stories, their stories and the struggles we are facing in this industry, has helped me tremendously. I don't think I'd have four books published today if it weren't for all those people.<br />
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Let's face it, authors like to talk about our writing and nothing helps or inspires us more than when we talk to someone who is as interested in the written word as we are. So if you're an author or an aspiring author, next time you attend a book signing, a writer's group, a conference or some other kind of event, don't be shy - make the extra effort to talk to another author. You never know what kind of relationship will form from it. That's exactly how Deborah Lynne and I met and we have both thanked our lucky stars that we did.<br />
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Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-11294843510838544932015-10-08T08:59:00.000-05:002015-10-08T08:59:13.699-05:00Fall Is Off To A Bang!I'm finally back to blogging after a long visit with my family and other busy things going on in this writer's life.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqiNnVmbx5HMWWe8zQP6RWkZ3jOap-JS3cqsapSnrxqSy58e3U3V7hzdNFhiF-HRy1jLRVvFDZVaaC4F86VgIKPnPzSB0DoMWxCwCcGtFgQOZztG2W6UTiupXME_Awe75PewjQwBYjsF8/s1600/Victoriaparksaptsbooksigning_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqiNnVmbx5HMWWe8zQP6RWkZ3jOap-JS3cqsapSnrxqSy58e3U3V7hzdNFhiF-HRy1jLRVvFDZVaaC4F86VgIKPnPzSB0DoMWxCwCcGtFgQOZztG2W6UTiupXME_Awe75PewjQwBYjsF8/s320/Victoriaparksaptsbooksigning_edited-1.jpg" width="320" /></a>I must say, this fall is starting out with a bang! While visiting my family in Virginia, my mom, sis and I had two very successful book signings. To be honest, I wasn't expecting either function to be much, however the event that I was sure I'd be lucky to sell one book at, ended up being one of my most successful. It sure is fun talking to people about our books but when someone comes up to you and wants to buy one of each, well I must admit, it's a terrific feeling and big boost to the ego!<br />
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This happened not once but two or three times during these book signings. Amazing! At least to me it was.<br />
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I also just attended another successful book signing here in Louisiana at the Denham Springs Fall Festival. It was chilly, windy and I was suffering from a rotten cold, but who cares when people are buying your creations! I paid for it the next day but it was still well worth it.<br />
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Last night I had another book signing at La Divina Italian Cafe. Why there, you ask? Because the owner of that very unique and lovely cafe is doing her part in supporting the community and our local authors. Each Wednesday night she has kids night and features a different author. We read our stories to the kids, sometimes play games and have all kinds of fun. It really is a great thing this cafe is doing and we just wish more local businesses would follow suit!<br />
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The picture below is of two little cutie pies and friends, Elliot & Julia at La Divina last night. We sure had fun!<br />
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Up next on October 24 & 25 is the Poche Plantation Arts and Crafts festival which I'm really excited about.</div>
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How about you other authors out there. What's your fall looking like?</div>
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<br />Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-72104490182514173182015-09-16T09:18:00.000-05:002015-09-16T09:18:03.531-05:00MiscellaneousJust wanted to let everyone know that I won't be able to update my blog next week. I'll be at my mom's in Virginia and won't have access.<br />
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I'm looking forward to my visit with my mom except it's going to be really difficult for me. It will be my first visit since my dad's passing. Not having him there is going to be sad and hard. My mom has moved into a new apartment so there won't even be any signs of him anywhere. Very heartbreaking for me but I'll get through it. He'll be on my mind every single second though cause I know how much he'd want to be there.<br />
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But he'd also want me to show mom a good time. Get her out of the house and take her to places she never gets to go anymore. She can't drive so she has to rely on everyone else to take her anywhere, which is hard because everyone works.<br />
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Anyway, good things are going to happen while I'm up there though. We have two book signings scheduled together so that will be a bonding and fun time for us all.<br />
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Has anyone been watching America's Got Talent this year? I want the regurgitator to win so bad this year! What he does seems gross, but there is no one else out there that can do what he's doing. It truly is amazing and I would pay money to see his show in Vegas. There's other good talent on this year but NOTHING like him. I've never seen anyone do what he does. Anyway, the finales is tonight and I'm keeping my fingers crossed for him! Here's a link if you'd like to see what he does!<br />
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSNiruzrEbo&feature=player_detailpage<br />
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See ya in a few weeks!<br />
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Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-41130833343505351352015-09-03T08:55:00.002-05:002015-09-03T08:55:40.203-05:00Writing WorkshopsHow important are writing workshops or conferences to writers? In my opinion, they are critical. However, we have to face facts that we can't all afford to attend them. I've found that some are very reasonable in price where others can be quite expensive. But the real question is are they worth it?<br />
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Almost every one I've attended has been worth it. Some more than others. I have to admit I've attended a few where I didn't learn much that I didn't already know, but I came out of there meeting a few new contacts or a few leads on book signing events. And both of those are critical to making it in this industry. And then there have been the workshops where I learned a ton of new stuff. So you just never know.<br />
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But to me, attending as many writing workshops or conferences that my budget and time will allow, has only benefitted me. They are a chance to "recharge" my juices and get me excited about the writing process all over again. Each time I attend one, I come directly home and start a new story or edit an old one. My batteries are once again revved up and my imagination is raring to go! There is nothing better than spending a whole day talking and listening to people who feel the same way I do about writing a book. <br />
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It's also a new adventure for me. Never in school did I ever raise my hand to answer a question the teacher asked. I never wanted to speak up for fear that I would look stupid because I didn't know what I was talking about. But when I attend anything writing wise, my hand doesn't hesitate to raise even when I try to stop it. So it's a weird and new experience for me, but one that I love and am proud of myself for giving it my all. Heck, I've even been the speaker at a few of these myself! And for me, that's a big "gold star" for the day.<br />
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So to those of you who are thinking of attending a workshop or conference, think no more. Just do it! I guarantee it will pay off in some way and you'll be glad you did it.<br />
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So, when's your next writing workshop or conference scheduled?Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-72097712017882769962015-08-20T10:34:00.001-05:002015-08-20T10:34:49.854-05:00Downton AbbeyI'm not exactly sure why but I'm addicted to the TV Series Downton Abbey. I'd been hearing over and over from people how good this show is but I always seemed to miss it when it was on. When I did catch an episode, it just didn't grab my attention. I thought it looked "cheesy." I never really watched a full episode.<br />
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However, while I was browsing through Target one day, the Season 1 DVD would for some reason not let me continue with my shopping without purchasing it. So I did. Then I went back and bought the rest of the seasons.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhz3dmMYRB-jT9D_iPJlMl8AomshOWB3dJUUhCqoXRS-WIVk1l5Km6J1hadATj4HNVnyXZ7h2yu2aNqiJh9LTi6dV9UNSN-N1yZ5W89eOAayqlw_DASCdAijX4G0nuR77mqBzBoBr1Ng/s1600/downtonabbey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhz3dmMYRB-jT9D_iPJlMl8AomshOWB3dJUUhCqoXRS-WIVk1l5Km6J1hadATj4HNVnyXZ7h2yu2aNqiJh9LTi6dV9UNSN-N1yZ5W89eOAayqlw_DASCdAijX4G0nuR77mqBzBoBr1Ng/s320/downtonabbey.jpg" width="320" /></a>I am totally hooked on this show now. In fact, so<br />
much so that I am watching the seasons for a 2nd time around, which I have never done in my life! Sure, I watch reruns of some shows but it's really only because nothing else is on. There are only a handful of shows that I would intentionally watch over again. But would probably never buy the DVD's.<br />
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Downton Abbey is brilliantly written, in my eyes. The characters all have something very unique and special about them. They really draw you in. This show also makes me realize the power of make-up, clothes and hair. This picture is what the lady looks like playing her part of a "devious, manipulative" ladies maid on the left and on the right is how she really looks. What a tranformation!<br />
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But what I really love about the show is learning how they did things back then and the difference between how the rich live and think, versus the serving staff. I also enjoy that the show brings out problems that you and I face even today. But totally shocking to me is when the "high and mighty" rich family show that they have real feelings of love towards their staff.<br />
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The show also makes me completely thankful that I wasn't born back in those days. They didn't even have TV's or computers! For shame!! Actually, it's not for those reasons that I'm glad I wasn't alive back then. There is no way I could dress up for every meal like they do. The women have to wear long gloves for dinner and the men white tie tux's. <br />
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There is one episode where one of the men's white shirts and ties disappeared so he had to wear a black tie! Everyone at dinner noticed this and made some kind of comment. Anyway, not my thing!<br />
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And the ladies all have to wear their hair up for some reason. You only see it semi-down at night when they go to bed.<br />
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Although I would have a very hard time with most of their "rich" traditions, there is one I could definitely get used to. When a woman gets married, she no longer is required to come down for breakfast. She is served breakfast in bed! I would be all in for that tradition.<br />
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Now, all my husband needs to do is ask for at least a 20 million dollar raise or I need to become the next J.K. Rowling and maybe I'll get that breakfast in bed!!<br />
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So how about you? Do I have any other Downton Abbey addicts out there?Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-23362054511011370732015-08-13T09:53:00.000-05:002015-08-13T09:55:14.993-05:00Marketing I'm sick of this heat, anyone else with me!!?? It's been over 100 degrees here in Louisiana for the past week. Oh if only we could buy weather like we can buy everything else in this world. But it's the one thing that is entirely left up to God. However, if he ever decides to "put it up for sale", I'll take some 70 degree weather, please! I want to breathe again!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIAKaVO3rUsMO5aH7pZ8bz14uywv8LGcQOOXMu8rbCOap57vslQZNHABnxVXAcPy2IBHNL88vgsaMvlDQPbodO7Wa7j9bwFbfvir9eQJBmp6rUvAuVPeOgTUpbK2HNfPzsh_QWyjQQ3M0/s1600/marketing.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIAKaVO3rUsMO5aH7pZ8bz14uywv8LGcQOOXMu8rbCOap57vslQZNHABnxVXAcPy2IBHNL88vgsaMvlDQPbodO7Wa7j9bwFbfvir9eQJBmp6rUvAuVPeOgTUpbK2HNfPzsh_QWyjQQ3M0/s1600/marketing.png" /></a></div>
But since I can't buy good weather, I bought a spot in an online marketing class instead. (At least I can take it indoors in the air conditioning!). I'm not finished with the course yet but one of the things it's teaching me is that marketing isn't all about getting my face out there to sell my book. It's more about getting my face out there to offer people something they might really want. Then once I make that connection with them, then I can plug in my "buy my book" pitch once in awhile.<br />
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I'm learning that on social media if all you're doing is advertising that you have a book for sale, that that doesn't really work. People get tired of seeing that all the time. People want something that will benefit them. Which is so true. I myself get tired of authors who only advertise their books but have nothing else to offer. So why was I thinking it would work for me?<br />
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Well, I just didn't know any better, that's why. What this course is teaching me is really making sense and I'm learning things I've never heard before.<br />
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So, my first order of "changing my marketing strategy" starts today. Instead of telling you more about my books, I'm going to give you the link to this course, put on by Children's Book Insider/CBI Clubhouse so that you might get some benefit out of it too. It's at a very reasonable rate and in my opinion, well worth it. To find out more, click here: <a href="http://easyauthormarketing.com/order">http://easyauthormarketing.com/order</a><br />
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I'm also going to share with you a link to one of my favorite blogs. Kristen Lamb is a hoot and not only gives authors all kinds of very valuable info but she also delivers it in a very entertaining way. Here's the link: <a href="https://warriorwriters.wordpress.com/">https://warriorwriters.wordpress.com/</a><br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<br />Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3813968394302283378.post-16235903073116144892015-08-06T09:09:00.002-05:002015-08-06T09:09:44.471-05:00New Picture Book ReleaseI'm so happy to announce that my newest picture book The Color of Love, is now available for purchase!<br />
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This book has been a long time coming. I first wrote it in 2011, had a contract on it in 2012 but that fell through. So after that experience, I decided to try my luck at self-publishing. I was able to hook up with a local artist in my writers group and together we worked really hard to get my story finally published. This was only the 2nd book Deborah Forbes has done and I think she did a great job, don't you?</div>
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I'm proud of this story because it sends an important message without shoving it in a child's face. Denny is concerned about what color love is so he and his mother go on an adventure to find the answer. Of course the best way to get answers is to sprinkle a little magic into the picture so that's just what I did.</div>
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The Color of Love is available through me at <a href="mailto:allyn_stotz@yahoo.com">allyn_stotz@yahoo.com</a>, <strong>Mascot Books</strong> at <a href="http://mascotbooks.com/mascot-marketplace/buy-books/picture-books/the-color-of-love/">http://mascotbooks.com/mascot-marketplace/buy-books/picture-books/the-color-of-love/</a>, <strong>amazon.com</strong> at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Color-Love-Allyn-Stotz/dp/1631770195/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1438869796&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=the+colof+of+love%2C+stotz">http://www.amazon.com/Color-Love-Allyn-Stotz/dp/1631770195/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1438869796&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=the+colof+of+love%2C+stotz</a> as well as Barnes and Noble, Books-a-million and other online retailers.</div>
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If you decide to purchase, I hope you enjoy it and I'd love to hear from you. I'd also love for anyone who does purchase a copy and has time to post a review on Amazon.com. Thanks so much! </div>
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Look for an announcement about my next book Cookies for Punch, coming soon!</div>
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Allyn Stotzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00125021589041199877noreply@blogger.com4