Are You Prepared to be an Author?

You've written the book, sent it to a publisher, and received that wonderful acceptance letter. All your dreams and aspirations have come true and you find yourself snoopy dancing around the living room, giddy with excitement. You congratulate yourself for a job well done and sit back and wait for those glorious royalty checks to come in. You have been told or read that self-promotion is essential to make sure your book sells and you are prepared for that. Or, are you?

Many new authors have the misconception that the publisher will do all the work for you but as you will learn, publishers leave the brunt of the promoting on you. Self-publishing and print-on-demand authors have it even harder, for all the work of promoting will fall in their hands, but the same rules apply to those authors who are published with traditional houses, too.

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO SHAMELESSLY PROMOTE?

As any seasoned author knows, your book will not sit there and sell itself. Your publisher can only do so much. You have to think of it as teamwork. Your publisher has your best interests in mind as well as his own.

The first place to promote your book is a website. Millions of internet-users will have access to your site and building a website is not only easy once you get the hang of it, but fun, too. Sometimes, your publisher will provide a webpage for you, but if you are not one of the lucky ones, what do you do?

There are dozens of web hosts that are free or charge a minimal price. Those that I would recommend are:

Homestead.com

Geocities.com

Tripod.com

Some of these come with annoying advertisements and for a small fee, you can have them removed. These web hosts are all easy to learn and provide tutorials.

Your webpage should include the following: book cover, link to where potential buyers can purchase your book, a clear crisp recent photo of you, reviews, endorsements, and contact information.

Another way to shamelessly promote yourself is to add your book details in your signature tagline with every email you send out. Round up all the addresses in your book and send them a note that your book is finally released. If you don’t get bold, your book stands no chance. Get out there and brag, brag, brag!

ARE YOU AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEWS?

Are you prepared to be interviewed about yourself and your book? It's no time to be shy or tongue-tied. No one will buy your book if you have nothing to say!

You can prepare yourself for this day by making a list of questions you might think an interviewer might ask you. You can be confident they will ask you the ordinary questions like "How did you get your start as a writer?" or "What are you currently working on?”, but, are you prepared for questions such as "When it comes to promotion, what lengths have you gone to in order to increase reader awareness of your work?" or "What are the key selling points of your book?". Believe me, they will ask.

This is where your press kit comes in. Before the interview, send them your press kit. Not only will they appreciate this, but it’s common procedure and will make you look more professional. I buy a folder and place a copy of the cover of my book on the front for appeal. Inside I have another copy of my book cover, a single-page write-up of what my book is about, an author bio sheet, a recent photo of myself, any reviews that I may have secured as well as past interviews, and articles I placed in the paper myself about my book, as well as press releases. You might also want to add in a sample question and answer sheet so that the potential interviewer will have an idea of what to ask.

I also make sure this folder has side pockets for pertinent information such as my business card with my contact information listed on it.

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR BOOK SIGNINGS?

I am a member of several online writing and critique groups. One question I asked them to prepare for this article was, “Which promotional method helps the most for selling your book?” The answer unequivocally was book signings. While one of the most feared, this was the most profitable in terms of book sales. As long as you have done your homework and come prepared, book signings can boost your exposure and sell more books than any other promotional outlet. The key here is “doing your homework”.

It might help to attend a book signing in your area before you have to hold your own. Note what makes this particular author interesting. Is he/she sitting at a desk waiting for people to come to her or is she mingling with the crowd? One prominent author friend of mine never sits. She doesn’t even allow the bookstore manager to put a chair down for her. She feels she won’t get the urge to be unsociable this way. Moving around makes her seem more people friendly and, thus, more approachable.

Another good approach many authors possess at book signings is “their signature”. One author of a children’s picture book about turtles brings her pet turtle in for a “show and tell”. Youngsters love this. This approach is good for the author who might like some of the spotlight taken off them and onto something else.

Another author who wrote a Caribbean romance story showed up at her book signing dressed in a flowery dress with dangly seashell earrings.

To sell your book, you have to sell yourself. Shameless promoting not only puts money in your pocket, but the recognition is priceless. Now isn’t the time to be shy. Get out there and promote, promote, promote!

Dorothy Thompson is the editor and founder of The Writer's Life (http://www.thewriterslife.net), one of Writer's Digest Magazine's Top 101 Website for Writers in 2003 & 2006. She is also the editor of ROMANCING THE SOUL and the author of three self-published eBooks: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO PROMOTING AND SELLING YOUR SELF-PUBLISHED EBOOK FOR FREE, HOW TO FIND AND KEEP YOUR SOUL MATE and 101 FACTS YOU NEVER KNEW ABOUT SOUL MATES. You can visit her website at http://www.dorothythompson.net

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Lg Ku990 Viewty Purple Vs Gigabyte Snoopy - Enhance Your Style Statement

Everybody knows that the producer of electronic goods, 'LG' has now started manufacturing mobile phones as well. A new stylish mobile phone from LG's family has been launched i.e. LG KU990 Viewty Purple. It is built with all the great features that can label it as one of the best professional mobile. But before purchasing any mobile phone, human beings do compare one mobile from another. So why should not compare this mobile with one of its competitor mobile i.e. Gigabyte Snoopy.

The camera feature in mobiles has become a necessity and fashion statement also. People disappoint with those mobiles that do not equip with camera option. LG KU990 Viewty Purple mobile is just stunning over this feature. It has a 5-mega-pixel camera, which gives the crystal clear images. Also, xenon flash, image stabilizer, 120 frames per second video record are some of the other latest options that the user will find in this gorgeous mobile. But Gigabyte Snoopy mobile is built with just 1 mega pixel camera that provides 1152 x 864 picture resolution.

The battery of this sleek LG KU990 Viewty Purple is also quite powerful. Its standby time is up to 430 hours and talk time is 4 hours. On the other hand, the standby time of Gigabyte Snoopy is 240 hours with 5 hours of talk time.

LG KU990 Viewty Purple mobile has a large 3-inch touch screen that perfectly shows the menu list. It does not put strain on eyes if the user will work over this mobile for hours. But Gigabyte Snoopy mobile has a screen of just 2 inches.

Gigabyte Snoopy mobile stores only 500 phone entries. But LG KU990 Viewty Purple mobile provides the unlimited storage capacity. It has 100MB internal memory but with the use of micro SD card slot, the user can expand the memory up to 2 GB. Also, it includes blue tooth and USB devices for exchanging your favorite mobile material with other mobiles and computers.

With the above comparisons in between LG KU990 Viewty Purple and Gigabyte Snoopy mobile, it is quite clear that the mobile lovers and non-lovers would go for the former mobile only because of its stylish look and advanced features.

LG KF510 Red, LG Viewty and Viewty Silver are the popular Mobile Phones and these Mobile phone deals are available on Cheap Mobile Phone Contracts UK.

The Auther Matt Damon is Sem Consultant for Buy Mobile Deals UK.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Damon

Snoopy vs. The Red Baron (Snoopy's Christmas) (CC)

Tips For Organizing a Family Website

Some products are offered via subscription but many entail a one-time purchase and the software can be easily loaded onto your computer. Once you decide which product is right for you, you will need to organize your materials for the site and you may also want to plan a schedule for updates. The following text is filled with tips to help you build your family website.

Before delving into the content of your website, the following software products may be worth checking out as they have solid reputations in their field: WebEasy, Photo.web, Macromedia Homesite 5, Macromedia Dreamweaver MX, Microsoft FrontPage or NetObjects Fusion MX. Certainly there are others, but by putting a good amount of time into this purchase, you can find a product that suits your ability and lifestyle. The next step is finding a host for your website. Frequently internet providers (like AOL or Earthlink) offer such services (at minimal or no charge) to their customers), but an internet service provider is a necessity for getting your page on the net.

The content and organization of your webpage can also be adapted to taste, but generally, family websites include some of the following inclusions: family news, achievements, school projects, genealogy research (family trees), photos, artwork, vacations, trips, activities, sports, reunion planning or similar events, calendars, tributes or memorials to other family members, information about pets or hobbies, etc...Some family websites include local information about what is happening in their locale, church, work, etc...

For security reasons, it may be a consideration to check into password protection access for your site (only friends and family may access your page). Another security measure may be simply to eliminate surnames, addresses or anything you do not want the general public to know. For children's websites, the extra security measures are suggested. You can even register your domain name by proxy giving you an extra layer of anonymity that is important in such cases.

When deciding on page layout, try to keep your pages short. The most essential information-your upcoming trip to Catalina Island-should be conveyed near the top. It helps to treat your page like a newspaper. The most important or newsworthy items up front. It's also a good idea to keep the page looking neat and well-organized. A page that is filled up with clutter can be off putting.

Your main page may be similar to an elaborate table of contents. For instance-Katie's wedding (as a headline) and one picture of the lovely bride should be enough to lure your readers into a page specifically about the event. Each subsequent headline may serve as a link to more expanded information: David's Promotion, Lorraine's Prize-Winning Quilt, Our Church Picnic, Snoopy's 1st Day of Obedience Class, Granny's Class Reunion, Rachael's Tennis Season, Luke's Matchbox Car Collection and so on.

Pictures add so much to a website, but place them with care. Your main page may feature a header of the family faces and each item in your "table of contents" may feature a thumbnail or small photo associated with the headline. You want to prepare your photos before uploading them. Many photos need to be resized as they may contain too many pixels for a website. Your software will address this issue. You can add photos via scanner, digital camera or even a disk where photos have been stored.

Besides photographs of people and events consider photographing other items of interest like children's artwork, paintings, your home, your garden, letters, school notes, newspaper clips, event programs, report cards, sentimental items, etc...Many family websites also offer family films or recordings as well. Take time editing your pictures and use only those that truly capture the event or provide a clear shot of the person.

Playing with your photo-editing software is good practice-most pictures require lots of editing before upload. Consider using design features like black and white or sepia tone pictures for old-fashioned charm. Don't forget to add captions for your pictures! Grandma wants to know if that's Bill or Bob under all that hockey gear. Part of the photo-editing process might even entail captions placed within the photograph.

Once you have your items for inclusion, be sure to upload them to their own special niche in the website. Avoid lock blocks of text. Add snazzy headlines and various colors for font. You can add absolutely anything you like to your site, but be sure it is placed in its appropriate space so it may be easily found by your readers. Family websites are celebrations of family life-tailor your site to match your family's collective personality and be sure to give each family member adequate space in your arrangement.

Marvin Dreyer is and entrepreneur, author. He has been involved in entrepreneurial activities for over 20 years. He founded Cheap Affordable Web Hosting for your web site hosting and check url to help web owners to check their site for viruses, check broken links and more online.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marvin_Dreyer

Loan Modification - What to Write in Your Financial Hardship Letter

The following is a sample letter to help you request Loan Modifications.

Snoopy
34 Charlie Brown Lane
New York, New York 11111
Email address
Phone number
August 5, 2009

Dear Financial Institution,

I am requesting an appointment with a loan consolidation officer. My wife and I would like to participate in the Loan Modification program. We are struggling financially, and see this an opportunity to not lose our home to foreclosure.

We would like to express our need for help with our mortgage. Both my wife and I have lost wages, through cut hours, cut wages per hour, and loss of benefits. We are struggling to pay our mortgage, pay our bills, and feed our children. As you can see prior to our jobs cutting hours, we paid our house payments and bills on time every month. We would like to get back on track financially.

We have gathered our bills together, and made a new household budget, which we would be happy to show you. We are trying to keep our home by cutting every expense possible. We will bring our old tax filings, and our current pay checks or 1040 forms to prove that we have a difference in our incomes. We will also bring our bills, credit cards, outstanding bills due, and our new monthly budget when we come to meet with you, if there is any other documentation that we need please let us know, and we will gather it to bring also.

We appreciate the opportunity to meet with a financial adviser, and discuss our financial problems. We look forward to any assistance with loan modification, loan consolidation, or other financial services available to us at this time. We are eager to work with you, so that we can keep our home from foreclosure, and not go into bankruptcy. We look forward to hearing from you very soon.

Sincerely,
Mr. Snoopy

If you follow this letter's format and replace your personal information within the heading and text, you will be one your way to consolidating your loan easily.

Final Tip: By researching and comparing the best loan modification companies in the market, you will be able to determine the one that meets your specific financial situation, plus the cheaper and quicker options available. However, it is advisable going with a trusted and reputable stop foreclosure specialist before making any decision, this way you will save time through specialized advise coming from a seasoned loan mods advisor and money by getting better results in a shorter span of time. Meaning getting your house out of risk as soon as possible.

Hector Milla runs the Best Loan Modification Company website, where you can get immediate assistance from professionals serving your state. We have done all the hard work for you and selected the best 3 rated loan modification services.

Read our full reviews of those companies, plus hundreds of articles and video training about how to stop foreclose and the best way to do a loan modification in order to stop a foreclosing proceeding.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hector_Milla

Valentine's Day Cards With Personality

Since Valentine's Day is among us once again it's time to pick out a special card for a more special someone. But, many Valentine's Day cards look the same from year to year. A big heart, some glitter and a smoochy saying will populate the shelf year and again.

And, that's Okay if you like this kind of card. But, some people want to express their love and affection in new ways. Not that there is anything wrong with a Snoopy card that has been popular since the 1960s.

But, what if you want something new, different and full of pizzazz? If you bought cards during the holiday season, you'll have noticed how the musical cards have taken hold on the shelves. Once considered a novelty, the musical cards have gone mainstream.

Now, musical Valentine's Day cards have also taken over the shelves. If you've been to a Wal-Mart or Target lately you'll know what I mean. One of the problem with musical cards, however is ironically their popularity.

People love to stand in the card aisle, open the up and play them. And, play them and play them. People play these cards until the batteries run out, so that all that is left on the shelves the day before the holiday are cards that won't play anymore.

Now, some of these cards come with a standard battery so that the totally desperate card buyer could Macgyver the card and resurrect it with a new battery if needed.

For Valentine's Day this year it will pay to shop a little early so that this scenario doesn't happen to you. If you find the perfect musical Valentine's Day card playing "La Bamba", "Let Me Call You Sweetheart" or even "Love Stinks" then snatch it up and buy it before all that are left are dead cards.

Now, another idea, especially if you have kids and want to engage them in an activity is to make your own Valentine's Day cards. This can be as simple as cutting our construction paper to as complex as spray painting a big heart on a large box. In no other holiday is the axiom "It's the thought that counts" so true as it is on Valentine's Day.

If you want to go high tech, you can always create a Valentine's Day card in Photoshop and print it out on a color printer. There are also many other software programs geared towards creating your own customized cards and printing them out.

Now, if you want to go really high tech, then create a video Valentine's Day card and post it on Myspace and Youtube for the whole world to see. On Valentine's Day simply send your sweetheart a link to the online video and await their response.

The sky is the limit on Valentine's Day, but remember, it all starts with the heart.

Copyright © 3LadyBugLane

Terry Raymond will be writing her Valentine's Day card this year on preppy stationary and giving it to the love of her life.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Raymond

Here is Your Zip Utility Solution

Have you ever downloaded a file off the Internet only to discover you cannot open that file. It's in a format extension like .tar, .gzip or some crazy format you have never seen. And like I mentioned, of course you can't get the file open.

Very frustrating isn't it?

This is why file compression / file archiver software has been developed. It is a professional solution to your situation.

But it gets better too! file squasher software not only allows you to open someone else's files, it allows you to share your files with others. It is simple, fast and easy to use!

Plus, if you are one who creates videos, audio's or large test files for clients...this file archive software is the answer to your pressing needs with delivering those large files. No longer will you need to send one file at a time.

All you simply need to do is browse to the folder you want to share and with one click simply compress one folder filled with files down into 1 single file to be shared. Like I mentioned, large audio's and videos produced for a client can be compressed into one manageable file for anyone to access.

Save time, save frustration and make life easier. You should also make sure that the solution you decide upon is guaranteed not to have any Adware or Spyware! There are some archive software packages currently available for free, however they install all sorts of other software that spies on you. Unless you want someone to find out all your personal details you must stay away from this type of software.

Most of the files you will be compressing will contain some for of sensitive data. A special photo, a memorable movie, credit card details, bank logins, passwords etc. This is why you must ensure that you data is safe and secure, and also the files you compress and are about to share.

Another very important function for file archive software is the ability to password protect sensitive files. This stops prying eyes from snoopy co-workers or even family from viewing this sometimes personal information.

When you have 939,956 people to date using FileSquasher you know it is a great and secure solution to sharing your large files with family and friends.

Imagine an archive software program that can deal with all the different file formats in 2 simple steps. Click on the file and unpack it.

FileSquasher is Ideal for emailing large files, you simply pack multiple files together to save space.
Easily create Smaller Files. Some files can be squashed to 50% of their original size.
Imagine only having to pay once, no yearly renewals, no costly upgrades. This has not existed until now...

All the best,
John Neumann
Head Editor
File Squasher

http://www.FileSquasher.com

Now you have a choice as FileSquasher unpacks them all.

PS - Sharing large files just became much easier! No more reason to wait, send grandma those photos of the grand kids Today!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Neumann

The Safest Stuffed Toys for the Kids on your Gift List

Although it's hard to say when the first stuffed dogs appeared, I would guess that it was soon after dogs were domesticated. We do know that as long as there have been children, there have been dolls, rattles, miniature weapons, and hand-made animals. Anthropologists have found evidence of toys dating back to the earliest records of human life.

Play is universal and cross-cultural. Though it may vary among cultures and generations, it's clearly instinctive and a key part of our development. A child's play is his way of learning about himself and his world. Play opens the door to a child's imagination. Some of our fondest memories from childhood are recollections of time spent playing with special people and favorite toys.

A classic among childhood toys is the Teddy Bear, who made his appearance in 1903 and is still popular today. Although the Teddy Bear may be famous because of his political affiliation (he was named after Theodore Roosevelt), just about any stuffed toy can become a child's favorite. Especially for infants and toddlers, there's great comfort and reassurance in having soft, cuddly companions like stuffed dogs to snuggle up with.

As surely as children play with toys, their needs and interests change as they grow and mature. As a child matures, a stuffed toy may come to represent a favorite animal in nature. Toy stuffed dogs might be huggable versions of media characters like a cartoon or comic strip dog ("Snoopy", "Scooby Doo", "Blues Clues", etc.). Finally, stuffed dogs can play the role of imaginary family pets.

When shopping for stuffed dogs for small children, keep in mind the child's age, interests, and abilities. Be especially careful when selecting toys for children under age 3. Labels help consumers narrow down which toys are right for a child, but here are some general guidelines regarding stuffed toys for children from birth to three years of age:

For children in the one to three year age range, avoid toys with small parts that could be swallowed, aspirated (inhaled into the air passages or lungs) or inserted into the nose or ears. The eyes and noses of stuffed dogs should be securely fastened and the seams well sewn. Avoid stuffed dogs with any sharp corners, rough edges, or strings.

Here are some specific guidelines to keep in mind according to a child's age:

Birth to 6 months

=============

For the first few months babies can't grasp with their hands, so choose toys that stimulate with sight and sound. High contrast, black-and-white or brightly colored toys and toys that make noise (like a squeeker toy) will get baby 's attention. Puppets can be used by adults to entertain baby.

Once the baby has learned to grasp, look for textured toys that are safe for mouthing. Choose stuffed dogs with short pile fabric.

Never hand a toy from the crib, stroller, playpen, etc., or around babies neck.

6 months to 1 year

=============

Infants become more mobile at this age and interact more with their toys. This is also the age when they love to drop things, so nice soft stuffed dogs will earn points with Mom for the absence of loud crashing sounds as they hit the floor!! Of course, your peace and quiet could be spoiled by the fact that toys that squeak when squeezed are popular at this age. Puppets are still a great way for parents to hold a child's attention, and there's even one popular brand that doubles as a washcloth at bath time.

The stuffed dogs you choose should still have a short pile fabric. Babies start teething at 6 months, and will definitely chew on their toys, so make sure you buy toys that you can throw in the washing machine

1 to 2 years

=========

During their second year of like, children love to explore. Their play is more physical and involves experimentation and imitation of adults. At this stage, stuffed dogs might be seen as "pretend pets" to befriend and care for. This could be a good rehearsal for the real thing. Children are not instinctively gentle with animals. Interactive play between parent and child, using stuffed dogs as props, can be a fun way to introduce them to the idea that a pet should be handled with gentle loving care.
At this stage, objects still get mouthed, so stuffed dogs should still have short pile fabric.

2 to 3 years

=========

Finally, you can graduate to nice, furry stuffed dogs! The long pile isn't considered a hazard--mainly because children age 2 to 3 no longer place everything in their mouths.* Kids this age have developed good hand coordination and like to put it to work with arts and crafts and simple puzzles. Plain stuffed dogs make use of a creative imagination. You might also consider a doggie hand or finger puppet. These work the mind as well as hands and fingers!

*No more thumbs or pacifiers at this age!! It will affect your child's oral and dental development.

3 to 6 years

=========

After age three, make-believe is a favorite pastime and children interact with each other, using toys as props. It's common at this age to develop strong attachments to favorite toys, and express feelings towards a particular doll, teddy bear, or stuffed dog. Toys representing favorite cartoon or TV characters might be the objects of affection. Puppets are also lot of fun for games of make-believe.

6 to 9 years

========

By now, more sophisticated games and toys are likely to have replaced stuffed toys. The exception is young collectors, looking for stuffed dogs to add to their menageries. Collectors defy age categories; the "beanie baby" craze is a great example of this. Personally, I never played with dolls as a kid but had an enviable collection of stuffed animals, and am still a sucker for a cute stuffed toy. Puppets are still appealing, as well as some of the nontraditional forms of stuffed dogs. These might include a pair of slippers in the form of a favorite dog breed, or bookmarks made to look like stuffed dogs.

9 years and up

==========

Especially as they approach their teens, children want to impress their peers and leave "childish" toys behind. Stuffed dogs, and stuffed toys in general, are only for young collectors in this age group. There are variations on stuffed dogs you might do better with. For example, a pair of dog slippers, a dog backpack or purse, or stuffed dogs suspended from key chains. Young (and old1) golfers would love a plush golf head cover in the shape of their favorite dog.

Finally, since your household (or the one you're shopping for) may have children of different ages, here are some general rules you can follow for fun and safe play:

TEN STEPS TO FUN AND SAFE PLAY *

1. When shopping for toys, keep in mind the child's age, interests and abilities.

2. Read toy or packaging labels for age ranges and safety warnings.

3. Be especially careful when choosing toys for children under three. Select toys that are free of small pieces (or pieces that separate or can be broken off), are lightweight, have no sharp edges or points and are non-toxic.

4. At home, read instructions for assembly and use. Keep product literature in case of future questions and complete warranty cards.

5. Remove and discard all packaging from a toy before giving it to a baby or small child.

6. Consider the home environment in which a child will play with a toy and younger children who may be there. A toy intended for an older child may be dangerous in the hands of a younger one.

7. Always provide toys in conjunction with sensible supervision. Supervise children when they play and set good examples of safe play.

8. Remind caregivers, including grandparents, of play-related safety concerns

9. Do not leave toys on stairs. Choose a safe storage place for toys. ( Anything large enough for a child to climb inside should have a cover that's easily removed).

10. Check toys at least every three months to determine their safety. Make any repairs immediately or throw away damaged toys.

* Source: www.toy-tia.org

© 2004, Carolyn Schweitzer. Lifelong dog-lover, power-shopper, and former family dentist Carolyn Schweitzer is owner and editor of " Great-Dog-Gift.com " . If you need inspiration for stuffed dogs, pay her a visit. The site offers a wide range of choices for dog gift shoppers, plus shopping and gift-giving tips. (Also advice on dog care and feeding.) She's always looking for new dog gift ideas and dog stories to share with her readers. You can reach her by email at netbrainer@verizon.net.

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