Thursday, October 22, 2009

Sick Leave

Last week I had a reality check. My daughter and I were both sick and, at the beginning of the week, my husband was out of town. Although I wasn't bed-ridden with the flu, the daily tasks of caring for two children (one who was sick and one who was bored) while feeling rotten was a huge strain. I was pretty miserable. Writing was the last thing on my mind.

Now I will be paying for it. I have deadlines looming. I like to take my time with articles, finishing up and submitting them a week or two in advance. I have learned that when requesting interviews and working with multiple sources, it is easier to have time.

This is the first time I have dealt with being sick as a self-employed person. What are your tips for staying on track when you are solely responsible?

Monday, October 19, 2009

The Motherhood Muse


Today I am honored to be the guest blogger at Motherhood Muse. Check out both my guest blog post entitled "Nature's Symphony" at http://themotherhoodmuse.blogspot.com/.

Kimberly will launch The Motherhood Muse e-zine in January and you can sign up now to receive a free newsletter at her website, http://www.themotherhoodmuse.com/.

Good luck to Kimberly in this great new endeavor!

Thursday, October 8, 2009

A Novel Idea

I am a mom and a freelance writer. My freelancing takes up all of my "office time." This is very, very good, but not as impressive as you might think. My office time consists of approximately 9 hours a week if there are no school holidays, no-one is sick and I don't need to go anywhere without a child in tow. Unless you count random working hours such as the 20-minute interview I conducted on my cell phone in my car this week. Don't worry, I was parked.

But behind the freelance facade is the creative writer. Essays, fiction...when am I supposed to find time to get all of the other "stuff" in my brain down on paper.

Writers, how do you find time to write what pays the bills AND still follow your muse?

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Take A Break


One kid is at school, the other is watching a 20-minute episode of The Backyardigans on TV and I need to draft two articles, submit an essay and schedule an interview. Ever feel that way? I think most of us do. Especially those of us with small children. And you'll notice that I didn't mention laundry, unmade beds or dishes in the sink.

I say we should give ourselves a break. One person can only take on so much. So, for the next week, let's concentrate on taking care of ourselves first. Then, write down some realistic goals and see if the writing process comes a little easier.

Being a mom is unpredictable, it is hard work and yes, it is worth it. But no one is perfect. So, take a deep breath and relax.

How do you manage your time?