Tuesday, June 16, 2015

How I Do It--Writing and Promoting

No, I'm not going to bore you with all the details, but just an outline of what goes on in my writing life.

Because I wrtie two series, I always have one book I'm writing and the other promoting. Gets pretty hectic at times.

I always begin with the new characters--what poor soul is going to get bumped off and by whom, and who else would have wanted this person dead and why.

What events and crises will happen in the lives of my ongoing characters? This is something I always have to consider. However, this is something that helps flesh out a book and sometimes becomes a major part of the plot.

While I'm doing all this, I'm making sure I have a presence on Facebook and Twitter, keep all the blogs I'm on updated, and I'm either in the process of whatever promotion I'm doing or planning.

Of course I have plenty more to do. Recently I've been a judge for two writing contests. Yes, it does take time away from my own projects, but it's one way I can support other writers. I've also been reviewing new books--I try not to take on too many of them, because there are other books I want to read.

Yes, and of course I have a regular life that consists of grocery shopping, cooking, taking care of our family finances, and so on. I'm sure no more than all the rest of you have in your lives. (You noticed, cleaning wasn't on that list--I pay a family member to help me out in that area.)

As I've aged, I really don't do nearly as much as I used to. My goal, though, is to do the things I really want to do, and minimize the rest.

Marilyn

P.S. I sent off my latest Deputy Tempe Crabtree mystery.



9 comments:

Elaine Faber said...

Gee Meridith. Perhaps you should get a hobby. doesn't sound like you're nearly busy enough! LOL What fun. Keep up the good work.

Marilyn Meredith a.k.a. F. M. Meredith said...

I barely scratched the surface of what else I do--teach a kids' Sunday School class, write and edit two newsletters, serve as a consultant for an organization for administrators of licensed care homes, etc. But I used to paint and knit--can't fit them in anymore.

Billie Johnson said...

My goal is always to do as much as Marilyn...and not feel too bad when I fall short, as invariably happens! She is s whiz and an inspiration to us all!

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

I don't know how you do it, Marilyn! I'm envious!

Jackie Taylor Zortman said...

Marilyn, I was tired before I read this and am astonished at how you accomplish all of these things consistently. I need to take whatever kind of vitamins you use. I bought River Spirits yesterday.

Lorna Collins - said...

I've told you I want to be you when I grow up! Except I don't intend to grow up, and I'll never catch up. See you on Friday!

Morgan Mandel said...

Yes, it's best to make what you really want to do a priority, and let the others fall into place or fall by the wayside.

Marilyn Levinson said...

Marilyn,
You continue to amaze me. I remember your once saying that you don't procrastinate. Such good advice. I try to keep it in mind but don't always succeed.

Marilyn Meredith a.k.a. F. M. Meredith said...

Thanks everyone for your comments. I'm glad you all think so highly of me, but believe me, I'm human, like all the rest of you.