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A Writer's Holiday Wish List 2017

12/3/2017

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by Annie Cronin Romano​
The holiday season is here, and so is 24 Carrot Writing’s holiday gift idea list for 2017! If you’re looking for some unique gifts for the writers and book lovers in your life (or “carrots” for meeting your writing goals!), here are this year’s suggestions.
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Know a writer or book lover who is expecting a new bundle of joy? Here’s a storybook baby blanket and baby hat that will carry their love of all things literary into the nursery. Available at www.storiarts.com, they both come in several storybook prints, including Alice in Wonderland and The Velveteen Rabbit. They're the perfect items to wrap up baby in the wonders of the literary world!
Usgearlaunch.com has a unique array of book-themed tote bags from classic to contemporary to just plain whimsical. You’re sure to find one perfect for any library haul.
Know a writer who loves shoes? At groovebags.com, you'll find bookish footwear to put your best literary foot forward.  Be it sneakers or slides, they have something to fit your style.
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​Here's one for the ultra-unique column. For the writer who has practically everything, give the gift of interior design! Visit usgearlaunch.com to find stairway stickers to give your staircase a true
​library feel. Just make sure the recipient doesn't
​live in a ranch!
​
 

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​Do you like to unwind with a drink after an evening of writing? At uncommongoods.com, you’ll find glasses inscribed with some literary classics, including Hamlet, Sherlock Holmes, and Les Miserables.
 

If you know a Harry Potter fan (and who doesn’t?), here’s a fun timepiece available at pbteen.com to make sure he or she is not late for the next quidditch match! Or, if your
wallet is a bit fatter, they also have a Hedwig lamp to shed some light on bedtime reading.
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We’ve all heard about the importance of reading those iconic pieces of literature. Know someone who needs a visual reminder? This clever scratch-off poster lists 100 iconic books rom classic to contemporary that someone (I don’t know who, exactly) decided everyone should read. After you finish each book, scratch the title space to reveal related artwork. Find it at uncommongoods.com.
Do you know any writers who don’t have a desk or can’t find the surface of their dining room table because their child’s science project had taken up residence? Problem solved! This lapdesk available at www.bedbathandbeyond.com lets them take their writing space anywhere. It even has a slot to stand up your tablet if that’s your technology of choice. Prefer to choose the fabric and size yourself? Visit the Lap Desk Lady on www.etsy.com to see a variety of sizes and styles.
My final suggestion…drum roll please? Books. (Duh, right?) Books about writing—the craft
itself and the industry of publishing—are welcome additions to any writer’s bookshelf.
​A few suggestions include On Writing by Stephen King, Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott, Dear Genius: The Letters of Ursula Nordstrom, collected and edited by Leonard S. Marcus, and The Chicago Manual of Style, which is on its 17th edition. From craft to industry to mechanics, these books are just a sampling of the staples every writer’s collection should have.
Even better? Buy them from an indie bookstore and support your local small business!
As always, be sure to give yourself a gift too:
the priceless gift of time to work on your writing in 2018.

All of us at 24 Carrot Writing wish you a happy, healthy,
​and goal-accomplishing holiday season!
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Warm Holiday Wishes

12/19/2016

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~by Amanda Smith
Usually we share our best writing advice, inspire you to set goals, and help you find strategies to meet those goals. We’ll be back to that soon enough, but it is December. Snow has fallen. Trees are decorated, cookies baked, gifts wrapped, and candles lit. So grab a cup of hot chocolate and a candy cane because December is a time of…
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​Reflection:
This season let’s take time to ponder our accomplishments and the goals checked off the list, our disappointments, and our triumphs in writing. Also, let’s reflect on what worked and why. Thomas Carlyle said, “The greatest of faults is to be conscious of none.” Let’s look into our mirrors, acknowledge what we see, and start planning new writing goals for 2017.

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Generosity:
A writing partner reminded us this is a season for generosity, and we should extend some of that generosity to ourselves. Once we have looked into that mirror, let’s give ourselves the gift of grace for what we didn’t do and focus instead on what we did accomplish. Hey, if ever there is a time for carrots, it is December! Leave yourself a little reward, all wrapped up with a bow, under the Christmas tree.

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 Peace:
 Amidst all the hustle and bustle of the season, let’s find some peace. Take  some time to rest. Make room for solitude, so you can reconnect with your  heart, passion, and dreams.

Hope:
Hope is the desire for a certain outcome, a feeling of trust. Once we have reconnected with our passion, let’s set expectations, focus our efforts, and set yearly goals that will help us realize the hope we have for this new year. And keep working, because...
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 Family:
 That being said, this season is also a time for family. Let’s trust our work, our  characters, and our muse to still be there in the new year. For a few glorious  days let’s enjoy the small moments with our families – the movies, the baking,  the games, the songs, and celebrations. Let’s allow ourselves guilt-free time  away from writing so that we can soak up all the precious expressions; gleeful  laughter; teenage snark; fiercely frustrating, absolutely infuriating, delightfully  humorous family interactions. (And don’t be surprised if some of those show up  in future writing projects.)

​We look forward to a productive new year filled with goals and writing tips, but for now, from our 24 Carrot Family to yours, Happy Holidays!
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A WRITER'S HOLIDAY WISH LIST

11/30/2016

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by Annie Cronin Romano

At 24 Carrot Writing, we believe in the importance of rewarding yourself with "carrots" when you achieve a writing goal, be it finishing an outline, brainstorming book ideas, querying agents, or honing your craft through writing exercises or research. Back in March, I posted a blog sharing some writing-themed carrot ideas (see "Give Yourself a Carrot"). Now, as the holiday season is upon us, here are some more creative suggestions to add to your own wish list or as possible gift ideas for your writer friends. Included are a few repeats from my spring suggestions and some new discoveries! 
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Like working jigsaw puzzles? White Mountain Puzzles has a few jigsaws with a literary flair. This "Reader's Paradise" puzzle will keep you busy with 1000 pieces of literary atmosphere.
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Love candles? There are candles out there perfect for writers and book lovers alike.
Check out the options at Gone Reading and
​fill the air with writerly aromas.
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​If you purchase that literary candle, you're going to need book-themed matches to go with it, don't you think? Look no further than Out of Print to find these
​adorable matchbook sets. 
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Check out Red Bubble for a variety of items perfect for any literary enthusiast! They have more than just bookish items, but you can search by keyword to find the perfect gift for writers and readers! Their phone cases are particularly creative.
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​Book-shaped saucers and plates abound at Gone Reading. When you're settling in for a writing session, this cozy cup and saucer will help get you in the "write" mindset! (Sorry. I couldn't resist!)
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At Uncommon Goods, you'll find an array of gifts for writers, from literary scarves to story cubes. This writing prompt book, "642 Things to Write About," got positive reviews from those who purchased it. And all writers know that sometimes we need a little idea boost to get the ink flowing.
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​If you're looking for clever t-shirts or mugs with writer-ly or bookish sayings, you'll find them at Cafe Press. You'll also find some other unique gift ideas, like this tongue-in-cheek writer's clock. 
Want some bling? At The Writers Store, you'll find vintage typewriter necklaces and bracelets. A perfect nostalgic gift!
Many writers like to decorate their laptops, notebooks and journals with stickers that reflect their personality. Find some unique ones at Red Bubble and Cafe Press.
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​                   Need some liquid courage to get you through a                                     rough patch in your revision? Celebrating a full                                     request? If Irish Whiskey is your thing, check out Writers Tears, available at Walsh Whiskey Distillery
and other online liquor retailers.
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Don't go for the hard stuff? Steele Wines might have what you'd
prefer. Their "Writer's Block" label is available in several varietals, including Malbec, Roussanne (shown here), and Pinot Noir. And
if you're still waiting on that first royalty check, their prices
​won't break the bank either! Cheers!
At Lithographs.com, they make literary-themed gifts ranging from tote bags
and t-shirts to posters, scarves, and even temporary tattoos! With over 200 titles
to choose from, including classics, contemporary, children's, and young adult,
you're bound to find a beloved favorite.
I hope you've found some treasures to add to your holiday list.
Or maybe you've discovered some future carrots to reward your
achievements as you meet your writing goals in the coming New Year.
And remember the best gift you can give yourself...
KEEP WRITING!

All of us at 24 Carrot Writing wish you a
happy, healthy, and creative holiday season!
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Happy June Year's Eve! 

6/8/2016

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by Kelly Carey

It's June and so it is time to assess how your annual writing goals are progressing. Use June Year's Eve to take stock of your accomplishments, reinvest in those goals that need more attention, and set yourself up for success in 2016.

To that end, I am re-posting a blog from June of 2015 and wishing you a Happy June Year's Eve! 


In January, bubbly with champagne excitement and intoxicated by the shimmering crystal ball in Time’s Square, we all set down our writing goals for the year. Since writers are ambitious dreamers, we probably set very lofty goals. To that I say, good for us!  That drive and stamina to succeed will get our manuscripts published.

But did you over promise? Did some unforeseen event steal time and attention from your writing? Did your January va-va-voom  sput-sput-sputter somewhere in March? Then I would like to be the first to wish you a Happy June Year’s Eve!

June marks the mid-year point and is an excellent time to track our progress and make sure we are well positioned for writing success. In June,  writing goals and resolutions everywhere can be given a solid scrubbing, and REVISED for success.  You set New Year’s resolutions, now is the time for June Year’s resolutions.

As writers, we are not only intimately aware of the power of revision, but we are also experts at revising.  It is time to apply that skill not to our manuscripts, but to our writing goals. Read through your goals, keep what is working and toss those goals that just don’t fit or make sense anymore. Maybe that middle grade novel whispered to you on a cold day in March (which frankly could have been any day in March since they were all cold) and you put aside your picture book plans.  Perhaps you had a light bulb moment while attending a conference, reading a blog, or while brushing your teeth (true story, just ask Amanda!). Great! Time to make your writing goals match that reality.

Just reminding yourself of the promises you made and the plans you had will refocus your energy for the next six months. This is not a bash session. Do not beat yourself up over missed goals. You are not giving up, you are revising.  What writer would forsake revision?

I’d like to clink a glass with you on New Year’s Eve in celebration of hitting our writing goals.  The best way to make this happen is with a serious mid-year goal revision.

Happy June Year’s Eve and happy goal revising!  

 I took a peek at my 2016 writing goals and was thrilled to see that I am ahead on some of my benchmarks. For example, I've already hit my target goal for the number of workshops and conferences I had hoped to attend this year. Cue the big smile, the feeling of accomplishment, and the internal "you go girl".   Then I noted some areas that I hadn't even realized were being neglected. I am way behind on writing query letters, and - what do you know - I had set a goal of revising a middle grade novel in progress.  I had totally forgotten about that lofty goal.  Lucky for me I celebrate June Year's Eve and can use the fizzy euphoria of this wonderful holiday to reinvest in my goals for the next six months of the year. 

Pop some champagne and set yourself yp for writing success this year!



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Give Yourself a Carrot

3/23/2016

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by Annie Cronin Romano

Last week, one of my 24 Carrot Writing partners mentioned that she hadn't rewarded herself with a "carrot" for all the writing goals she'd met for quite a while. She'd finished her novel, had begun querying, and had started a new novel--all goals she'd set and met--yet she'd neglected to reward herself. And as small a matter as that might seem, it's actually quite important. We need to give ourselves a pat on the back for meeting those goals. It's a big deal! Applause! Applause!

So, as we wrap up the first quarter of 2016, I ask you, dear writers, what goals have you checked off your list? Finished an outline? Brainstormed ideas for your picture book? Spent time honing your craft? Submitted? I bet you have! So indulge in a massage at the spa. Take an hour or so to go for a bike ride or go catch a movie you've wanted to see. Or, if you'd like to stick to the literary theme for your rewards, I have researched a few fun "carrots" to honor your wordsmithing accomplishments!
​

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Like working jigsaw puzzles? White Mountain Puzzles has a few jigsaws with a literary flair.
​This book "Best Sellers" puzzle will keep you busy with 1000 pieces of literature's favorites.
How many have you read?


The bookplates below are just a few samples of the designs you'll find at
​Gone Reading, a web store for reading enthusiasts. 
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Ever wished a perfume could capture the aroma of libraries, leather-bound
books, and Mr. Darcy? Well, a few claim to have done it! Check out
Sweet Tea Apothecary for their "Dead Writers" scent (hey, I didn't name it!)
or head over to Demeter to discover "Paperback."
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Okay...do NOT tell me you wouldn't love walking into that next critique
group meeting with your appetizer served on a book-shaped platter!
I mean, how fun is this? You can see all the size options at Gone Reading.
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​_

​Wish you could wear a favorite book around your neck? Don't we all? Well, you can if you web surf your way over to Uncommon Goods. They've got scarves featuring passages from Jane Eyre, Alice in Wonderland, and Wuthering Heights. 
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​Need one more idea?
Steele Wines'
Writer's Block wine.
​'Nuf said.
I hope you enjoyed (and try) some of these suggestions for writing rewards.
Now, go treat yourself to that hard earned carrot!
And keep striving to meet your upcoming goals.
I'll share some more carrot ideas in a few months!
~Annie
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A Year of Abundance

12/23/2015

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​by Francine Puckly

While the fresh-cut Christmas tree in my family room has gifts placed beneath it, the “extra” artificial tree in our sitting room sat barren for years. That is, until I started wrapping empty boxes and placing them under the branches. But those boxes are hardly empty to me. Every time I complete a manuscript, a new gift box is wrapped and labeled, as one main character bestows a gift upon another from the same story. And though I remain pre-published, this visual abundance of my accomplishments brings great joy each Christmas season. And I delight in wondering what might be placed inside each box if the characters actually gave out presents.
 
As we close this busy year with the busiest of months, let's take the time to count our blessings and abundances,  lift a glass and toast our tenacity and dedication to our creative lives, and celebrate our loved ones and the avid supporters who have kept us on course.
 
24 Carrot Writing wishes you and yours peace and contentment as you tally your many achievements from 2015. We’re honored that you have joined us for this journey, and we look forward to bringing you more writing support in 2016! Just imagine what we'll accomplish in the New Year…and we have a bonus day to boot! What will we do with it? The possibilities are endless!

Happy Holidays!
Francine, Amanda, Annie and Kelly
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Happy June Year's Eve - Time to Revise Your Writing Goals

5/19/2015

0 Comments

 
Picture
by Kelly Carey

In January, bubbly with champagne excitement and intoxicated by the shimmering crystal ball in Time’s Square, we all set down our writing goals for 2015. Since writers are ambitious dreamers, we probably set very lofty goals. To that I say, good for us!  That drive and stamina to succeed will get our manuscripts published.

But did you over promise? Did some unforeseen event steal time and attention from your writing? Did your January va-va-voom  sput-sput-sputter somewhere in March? Then I would like to be the first to wish you a Happy June Year’s Eve!

June marks the mid-year point and is an excellent time to track our progress and make sure we are well positioned for writing success. On June 1, 2015 writing goals and resolutions everywhere can be given a solid scrubbing and be reset, recharged and REVISED for success.  You set New Year’s resolutions, now is the time for June Year’s resolutions.

As writers, we are not only intimately aware of the power of revision, but we are also experts at revising.  It is time to apply that skill not to our manuscripts, but to our writing goals. Read through your goals, keep what is working and toss those goals that just don’t fit or make sense anymore. Maybe that middle grade novel whispered to you on a cold day in March (which frankly could have been any day in March since they were all cold) and you put aside your picture book plans.  Perhaps you had a light bulb moment while attending a conference, reading a blog, or while brushing your teeth (true story, just ask Amanda!). Great! Time to make your 2015 writing goals match that reality.

Just reminding yourself of the promises you made and the plans you had will refocus your energy for the next six months. This is not a bash session. Do not beat yourself up over missed goals. You are not giving up, you are revising.  What writer would forsake revision?

I’d like to clink a glass with you on New Year’s 2016 in celebration of hitting our 2015 writing goals.  The best way to make this happen is with a serious mid-year goal revision.

Happy June Year’s Eve and happy goal revising!   




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Happy Holidays from 24 Carrot Writing!

12/22/2014

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Picture
By Francine Puckly

All of us at 24 Carrot Writing send best wishes to you and yours for a wondrous holiday season and health, happiness and good fortune in the year ahead. We are grateful you’ve allowed us to accompany you on your creative journeys, and we look forward to great ideas, sustainable motivation and delightful rewards for the hard work that will greet us in 2015! 

So raise a glass of cheer to celebrate the gifts of family and friends, but also to honor all that you have brought forth this year. Slap a gold foil star on the top of research pages, drafts and brainstorming notes you’ve completed, and crawl into bed each night with a content heart. You are on the right track for reaching your dreams!

Happy Holidays! 

Francine, Amanda, Annie and Kelly


“Every year I resolve to be a little less the me I know and leave a little more room for the me I could be.”
                  -- Wendy Wasserstein “Uncommon Women and Others”

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    The 24 Carrot writers are   

    Francine ~ YA
    Kelly ~ Picture books, MG,                   Short stories 
    Annie ~ Picture books, MG
    Amanda ~ Picture books, YA

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