How I Got Started Reading When I Hated It

How I Got Started Reading When I Hated It

It might be surprising to learn that a published author, creative writer, and professional editor used to hate reading books. The truth is I wasn’t always an avid reader. To fully understand how my love for books, and more importantly—my love for stories has grown over the years, I have to back up to a time before I appreciated books.

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Starting Artists, Not Starving Artists

Starting Artists, Not Starving Artists

Supporting emerging artists can prevent them from facing the common struggle of financial instability. Collaborating with new creatives, like hiring them for design, writing, or marketing tasks, benefits both parties by fostering growth and exchanging valuable services. This approach saves time, provides artists with opportunities, and strengthens the creative community. Offering honest reviews and testimonials further supports their credibility. By choosing collaboration over competition, professionals contribute to a thriving artistic ecosystem.

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My Current Faves (of 2019)

My Current Faves (of 2019)

Below is my list of my favorite poets and recommendations of a few of their books. These poets have taught me do much about writing thought and feeling-provoking poems as well as many interesting truths about the world and those in it. Their writing is so inspiring and I'd recommend them to anyone looking to get into more modern poetry.

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Freelancing Basics

Freelancing Basics

Embarking on a freelance editing career requires strategic preparation and continuous development. Aspiring editors should seek internships during or after their studies to gain practical experience with industry-standard tools and techniques. Pursuing specialized courses in various editing facets, grammar, and the Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) is essential, as is obtaining relevant certifications to validate one's expertise. Joining editorial associations can facilitate networking and provide valuable resources. A commitment to extensive reading—including industry literature, style guides, and genre-specific novels—enhances critical thinking and editorial skills. To secure clients, collaborating with fellow editors, connecting with literary agents, and offering services both online and within local communities are effective strategies. Specializing in specific editing types allows for skill refinement and niche expertise. Efficient time management, such as batching similar tasks, is crucial for productivity. Maintaining a steady workflow involves continually seeking new projects to mitigate potential lulls. Additionally, setting realistic working hours and establishing boundaries ensures a sustainable work-life balance.

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Lady Gaga’s Joanne World Tour : Oklahoma City Concert Recap

Lady Gaga’s Joanne World Tour : Oklahoma City Concert Recap

On December 9, 2017, Lady Gaga performed at Oklahoma City's Chesapeake Energy Arena as part of her Joanne World Tour. Despite a delayed start, the concert opened with an electrifying rendition of "Diamond Heart," setting the tone for an evening filled with dynamic performances, powerful vocals, and elaborate costumes. The setlist included fan favorites like "Poker Face," "Just Dance," and "Bad Romance," engaging the audience in sing-alongs and dance routines. Midway through the show, Gaga addressed the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing unity and acceptance before performing "Come to Mama." She also delivered an emotional piano version of "The Edge of Glory," dedicating it to those affected by the California wildfires. In a heartfelt moment, Gaga donned a fan-made jean jacket tossed onstage and read a letter from the fan before performing "The Cure." The concert concluded with an emotional performance of "Million Reasons," leaving the audience deeply moved.

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