3 things + 2 writing contests
Here are three things bringing me joy lately. I hope they do the same for you, Reader.
#1 – Ted Lasso | TV Series | Apple TV
A show about kindness, teamwork, and being a joyful underdog. Guaranteed to bring the warm and fuzzies and plenty of belly laughs (Jason Sudeikis is a gem).
#2 – This podcast episode, "A Spell to Stop 'Feeling Behind'" by Natalie Miller of Mind Witchery.
Writing students often tell me, "I'm so behind on my novel." Natalie explains how "behind" isn't a feeling, and then offers a magical reframe for how to feel more grounded in the present moment.
#3 – Professional Troublemaker: The Fear Fighter Manual by Luvvie Ajayi Jones.
Luvvie offers a laugh-out-loud kick in the pants plus a bold reminder of your innate awesomeness. Snort-laughs guaranteed.
Here are two more things I promise will bring you joy. Why? There's prize moo0lah for writers!
Ruminate's VanderMey Nonfiction Prize is open for submissions.
Entry fee is $20 US, and the grand prize is $1500 + publication.
Room's 2021 Short Forms Contest is open for submissions (plus other submission opportunities!).
Entry fee is purchasing a yearly subscription, and the grand prize is $500 (I'm not sure if that's CA dollars or US, though it's great either way!)
Cheering you on all the way, Reader.
xo,
Renee
PS – What's bringing you joy these days? Reply and let me know –– I read and reply to every email. 💖
PPS – Yesterday was (and always is) a hard day in the US and for many across the world who lost loved ones on 9/11 and in the wars that followed.
My prayer for the future: May we continue to remember those we lost. May we honor their memories by living boldly with joy, love, and peace.
Renee Long Writes
How many times have you been told by a teacher, parent, or boss to... “Push past your comfort zone, Reader! You’ll never get anywhere if you stay SAFE!” As if safety and comfort should be avoided like that friend who’s always experimenting with natural deodorant. (Eeek… I was that friend. I did recently find a great natural deodorant that doesn't make me emit real-life stink lines like Pig Pen.) Yes, it’s true that growth requires a degree of discomfort. It is ALSO true that comfort and...
Florence Foster Jenkins is widely known as "the world's worst opera singer." Madame Florence adored music and had big dreams to become a renowned soprano. She was diligent in her practice. She performed, recorded, and advocated for herself as an artist. Yet, her vocals were consistently flat and her rhythm off. Despite years of practice and an unshakable belief in herself, Florence's voice sounded like an alley cat in the throes of a difficult labor. Google "Florence Foster Jenkins singing"...
Florence Foster Jenkins is widely known as "the world's worst opera singer." Madame Florence adored music and had big dreams to become a renowned soprano. She was diligent in her practice. She performed, recorded, and advocated for herself as an artist. Yet, her vocals were consistently flat and her rhythm off. Despite years of practice and an unshakable belief in herself, Florence's voice sounded like an alley cat in the throes of a difficult labor. Google "Florence Foster Jenkins singing"...