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Hello September!

Quote of the Day: “The talent of success is nothing more than doing what you can do well, and doing well whatever you do.” ~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

September1

September is waving its magic wand inviting us into a new season when fall begins and summer ends. The quote for today honors Longfellow’s favorite month – September. May it become our best month yet!

Here are a few special days for September 2018.

Celebrate Self Improvement this month!

September 3 – 1st Monday in September – Labor Day

September 6th Read a Book Day!

September 8th International Literacy Day!

September 23rd Autumn Equinox – fall begins!

September 25th National Comic Book Day

Background – Labor Day

Labor Day, is a legal holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September in the United States, Puerto Rico, the Canal Zone, and the Virgin Islands. Canada also celebrates Labor Day on the same day.

What Labor Day Means

For most people, Labor Day means two things: a day off and a chance to say goodbye to the summer. But why is it called Labor Day? Labor Day is a day set aside to pay tribute to men and women in the workforce. It has been celebrated as a national holiday in the United States (NYC) since September 5th, 1882 in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union.

Are you a Goodreads follower? Enter for a chance to win one of 50 copies of  “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,” by Carolyn Bowen (ends September 9th). Learn how to change your world one step at a time.

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success by Carolyn Bowen

Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success

by Carolyn Bowen

Giveaway ends September 09, 2018.

See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.

Enter Giveaway

 

As you can see, I’m pretty excited about this new personal development book. I’m looking forward to reading your reviews and comments about this potentially life-changing book.

Check out the latest book review for “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success.“  More reviews for my books are posted on my media page.

Where to Find My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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Hello, August 2018

Quote of the Day: I always prefer to believe the best of everybody. It saves so much trouble. Rudyard Kipling

August 2018, Writing Life, Summer Days

Hello, August 2018! What are your plans for this month? Many folks have summer vacations or shopping for children’s back to school clothes on their list. Me, I plan to stay in the shade unless the great outdoors beckons me.

August is typically a scorcher in the southern United States. To beat the heat, many enjoy water sports and lazy summer days on the lake. Whatever makes you happy and comfortable is the ultimate winner.

I’m fascinated by the weather and track the activity of the Atlantic hurricane season. The season began on June 1 and ends on Friday, November 30. However, it peaks in late August or early September, though storms can occur year-round. You can bet I’m ready and tuned to the weather channel.

Question: Does the weather temperature where you live make a difference in your lifestyle choices? Let me know, I’m interested in learning more about you.

Grateful, gratitude, writing life
Oh, happy day! My dreams are coming true by helping you discover yours and claiming your destiny. I am grateful for today’s happy news!

“Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,” is currently an Amazon #1 Bestseller. Thank you for making this possible. Let me help you realize your dreams, too!

Book Description

When surfers hit the water, they use a technique called cross-stepping or moving their weight forward and backward to stay standing. Cross-stepping isn’t just a good idea for surfers, though – you, too, can metaphorically use the same strategy of zigzagging motions to achieve success.

In “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,”  life coach and Author Carolyn Bowen shows you how to zig-zag your way to success one step at a time. She examines grieving, life planning, owning your power, becoming health conscious, learning to love again, and more.

Read “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,” and you’ll discover how to maintain your balance on the choppy waters of life!

Life’s little instruction book for mastering success! Author and lifestyle coach Carolyn Bowen shows you how to zig-zag your way to success one step at a time.  Download and Read ” “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success.”

Download Here or read FREE with Kindle Unlimited!

Latest Writing News

I’ve gone rogue and today my new book release is in a fascinating genre that’s built on my educational background and practical experience. Reviewers: Do you want to be on my launch team? If so, let me know and a Kindle version will be yours.

Where to Find My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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July Writing News

July Writing News, Success

Quote for Today: “The world as we have created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking.”  Albert Einstein

Today’s an exciting day. My new personal development non-fiction book, Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success, is now live on Amazon. Here’s the skinny on it!

Book Description

When surfers hit the water, they use a technique called cross-stepping or moving their weight forward and backward to stay standing. Cross-stepping isn’t just a good idea for surfers, though – you, too, can metaphorically use the same strategy of zigzagging motions to achieve success.

In “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,” career coach Carolyn Bowen shows you how to zig-zag your way to success one step at a time. She examines grieving, life planning, owning your power, becoming health conscious, learning to love again, and more.

With “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,” you’ll discover how to maintain your balance on the choppy waters of life!

Download Here or read FREE with Kindle Unlimited!

Latest Writing News

I’ve gone rogue and today my new book release is in a fascinating genre that’s built on my educational background and practical experience. Reviewers: Do you want to be on my launch team? If so, let me know and a Kindle version will be yours.

Where to Find My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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Midsummer Adventures ~ Hello June!

Quote of the Day: “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”  Ralph Waldo Emerson

Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen
Photo credit: Pixabay

The summer months are particularly enjoyable when you enjoy outdoor sports and adventures.  June is one of my favorite months for it’s not too scorching hot for a picnic and other outside gatherings with family and friends.

I just returned from FL where my family celebrated a milestone of one of our members. It was a happy occasion and a chance to visit the beautiful beaches in the area. I hope you’re enjoying the sunny weather and all the deliciously fresh produce and offerings of the season.

These are the holidays coming up this month. Enjoy!

June 2018 Holiday Calendar

June 17 – Father’s Day

June 18 – International Picnic Day

June 21 – Summer Solstice (midsummer)

Latest Writing News

I’ve gone rogue and will be announcing a new book release this month in a fascinating genre that’s built on my educational background and practical experience. Reviewers: Do you want to be on my launch team? If so, let me know and an advance copy will be yours.

Where to Find My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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Hello April…

April hath put a spirit of youth in everything. William Shakespeare

Hello April, Flowers, The Writing Life

Spring is showing up all around with buds popping out of the once desolate landscape. In the United States, it won’t be long before flowers are in full bloom and trees take on their spring foliage.

Spring sparks the intellect with youthful prose and the imagination soars to new heights. Enjoy the season and allow your creativity to blossom in your writing lives.

My Writing Life

I’m pleased to report that I’m making real progress on the first draft of my new mystery, crime fiction novel. Thank you for the “adda girl” encouragement and support of my writing.

5 Stars, Book Review, The Writing Life, Hello AprilLatest Book Review News

Woo Hoo! 5 Stars by Readers’ Favorite – Read the review here! The Long Road Home by Carolyn Bowen

Crime Fiction/Mystery Book Reviewers

I’m looking for book reviewers who would like to read my new crime fiction and receive an advance copy prior to the release date. I’d love your feedback!

5 Fun April Facts & Trivia

  1. April is named after the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite.
  2. The diamond is April’s birthstone.
  3. This month has many month-long programs: National Poetry Writing Month, National Financial Literacy Month, and Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
  4. In the Roman calendar, April is spelled Aprilis, meaning – to open. The trees and plants begin to open to bloom and flower during this month.
  5. April’s Honorary Flowers are Daisies and Sweet Peas.

April Calendar of Events

  • Apr 10     National Library Workers’ Day
  • Apr 13     Thomas Jefferson’s Birthday
  • Apr 26     Take our Daughters and Sons to Work Day
  • Apr 27     Arbor Day  ~ State holiday ~ Nebraska

Where to Find My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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March – A Time For Renewal

March – A Time of Renewal, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Quote of the Day: It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade. Charles Dickens

March – A Time For Renewal

Every season is my season. I enjoy experiencing the contrast of each new season from the last. It’s a marking of time and enjoying the moments, hours, days… that add up to a lifetime. It’s a perfect reason to celebrate each season.

My Writing Life

I’m pleased to report that I’m making real progress on my new mystery, crime fiction novel. Thank you for the “adda girl” encouragement and support of my writing.

Crime Fiction/Mystery Book Reviewers

I’m looking for book reviewers who would like to participate as a beta reader and receive an advance copy prior to the release date. I’d love your feedback!

Fun March Facts

  1. Here are some fun facts about March 2018.
  2. March is the third month of the year.  It’s the second of seven months to have a length of 31 days.  In the Northern Hemisphere, the meteorological beginning of spring occurs on the first day of March.
  3. March meaning and symbolism is solved when we learn the month is named after Mars. Martius, the moniker for Mars is actually the original term for the month of March in Roman calendars.

March Calendar of Events

  • March 4:        Academy Awards
  • March 8:        Int’l Women’s Day
  • March 11:      Daylight Savings Time
  • March 17:      St. Patrick’s Day
  • March 20:      Daylight Savings Time, N. Hemisphere
  • March 25:      Palm Sunday
  • March 30:      Good Friday
  • March 31:      Passover Starts

Where to Find My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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February – I Love You!

Carolyn Bowen Author, Goodreads Author, The Long Road Home, Cross-Ties Novel, February BlogFebruary – I love you!
It was a dark and stormy morning providing the perfect background for writing my next crime fiction. I am writing again and am thankful for my fans that have encouraged me to write a new novel. You are most appreciated!

I’m looking for beta readers to provide feedback on the finished manuscript and book reviewers for my current novels. If you’re interested, just let me know and I’ll provide a Kindle version for your reading pleasure.

I’ve spent the last few months studying my craft believing that it’ll improve my writing skills. I can’t wait to see the results applied to my new novel. Of course, the studies will continue but this does dip into my time slot for reviewing new books by my favorite authors. But I’ll catch up shortly!

I don’t know about you – but I love the month of February. Valentine’s Day is a special occasion for me. It’s like love is in the air. Do you have anything special planned for the holiday?

Counting down…

Another reason I enjoy February is that I know spring is right around the corner. For me, that means I need to get serious about my exercise program. I want to look especially “fine” for the coming seasons. If you have a routine that provides buff abs, send it to me. Right now, I have to hide from my cats with my exercise ball to keep them from popping it with their claws.

Where to Buy My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

###

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Spring 2018 Countdown – Writing Life

The Writing Life

Spring 2018 Countdown, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author

Quote of the Day: “Start writing, no matter what. The water does not flow until the faucet is turned on.” Louis L’Amour

Good News

I’m pounding the keys again working on a new novel. Excited – is an understatement. I’m enjoying watching the words appear on the pages and sharing my writing journey with you.

Around the house

Tookie and Bubba Blue are still strange bedfellows with a new friend joining them soon – a swim mate for Blue.

With the flu season making a major impact this season, I’m taking extra health precautions being more health and fitness minded. It’s taken me a long time to find a balance between work and health pursuits. I tend to focus on my writing and marketing and lose touch with everything else. I’m proud to say that’s changing and I’m still able to reach my goals.

Spring 2018 Countdown

There are 52 days left until spring 2018. If you haven’t already read my novels, now is a great time as winter bids farewell.

Where to Buy My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow

###

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Strange Bedfellows Indeed

Almost Famous – Unlikely Buddies

Quote of the Day: Most Americans, like most Japanese, view their dogs, cats, and other animal companions as family members, and rightly so. Ingrid Newkirk

The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book Blogger

Bubba Blue and Tookie are unlikely buddies and their friendship has made them almost famous. Their alliance has garnered them the reputation of being strange bedfellows indeed. In my last post about the duo, I mentioned Bubba Blue needed a new aquarium to get some airflow moving through his water world.

The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book BloggerIt arrived and I put it together, all by myself. I felt victorious and intense satisfaction for instructions that made sense. I immediately filled the tank with betta water, gravel, an aquatic plant and a play toy for Bubba Blue. I let the water circulate for 24 hours prior to introducing Bubba to his new home.

The rest is history. Bubba swam around and inspected his new quarters as Tookie watched in awe. Since bettas (known as “labyrinth fishes”) take their oxygen from the surface of the water, it makes it easier when he swims to the top to greet his friend.

Tookie always awakens me to feed them both in the mornings. Every day their routine continues – morning kisses to start the day. It’s great having best buddies to brighten my day!

The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book BloggerThe Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book Blogger

My Writing Life

The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book Blogger

Setting Goals

My goal for 2018 is to complete a new novel and I’ve begun the first steps toward that goal – focus with a purpose!

I plan to make myself accountable for achieving my new year’s mission. You’ll probably see me talking about that here from time to time.

Join the Fun

If you’re a mystery book reviewer and would like to be a beta reader for my new novel, let me know so I can add you to my reviewers’ list.

Thank you for reading and reviewing my books on reader/novel platforms. Your kindness is greatly appreciated!

Where to Buy My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow

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Time Management for Authors 2018

Time Management for Authors 2018

Quote of the Day: Real seriousness in regard to writing is one of two absolute necessities. The other, unfortunately, is talent. Ernest Hemingway

The Writing Life, Setting Goals, Time Management, Carolyn Bowen Author

I’ve resolved that 2018 is going to be the best year ever for me and my writing. First, I’ve got to clean out some debris from habits formed that keep me from my main focus – writing.

As an author they’re several hats we wear, or at least I do. From studying my craft, learning new computer applications (that’s supposed to help reach new readers) creating content for marketing campaigns, interacting with social media, I often have little time to actually write.

I need to set that in focus. For me to actually write – I need inspiration which usually comes through travel. It’s like a story is waiting to be told in the places I visit. Other words, I really need time to travel. If you’ve read any of my interviews, you know I write from the seat of my pants which makes editing a nightmarish expense as well as time-consuming. Yet, I wouldn’t trade the experience for the world.

There are two things that I’ve learned are important to success – time and resources to accomplish your goals. How often have you heard the phrase time is money? Well, it is! When you’re spending time doing something, its dollars spent. You could be earning money elsewhere or in the least relaxing.

Carolyn Bowen Author, The Long Road Home, Cross-Ties, Long Road Home, The Writing Life, Book Bloggers, Blogging

My Remedy

  • Have a clear objective of what I want to accomplish in 2018. This means stating (writing it down) an objective that can be measured. For example, more books sales – what does this require of me?
  • What are the tools that I need to accomplish the objective? Depending on your objective, the tools may vary. However, for authors who already have published books, there’s a need to continue promotions while writing new works of fiction.

In this case, research the best promotional tools – whether this is book marketing companies to promote your books, search engine advertising, Amazon advertising, or any of the major social media sites advertising.

Make a calendar and schedule time for writing new content for advertisements and social engagement.

Writing – set realistic goals and time frame for completing the steps towards completing a new manuscript.

  • Implement new strategies – Yes, trust the new process, monitor promotions and update as needed.

Back to my question, how can I make time to accomplish my personal goal of publishing a new book in 2018 while at the same time continue promotions of my books? It’s all about time management!

Today’s author has to be on the top of the playing field with presence and genuine offerings. I’d love to hear what works for you! Wishing you a super 2018, Carolyn Bowen

Where to Buy My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link or image to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery

I hope 2018 is a wonderful year for you! I’ll be writing – and enjoying some great times too. Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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