Cow Pasture Chronicles

WOW! Women On Writing Blog: Friday Speak Out!: When Others Have More Faith in Your Writing Than You Do

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 18:00:00 +0000

WOW! Women On Writing Blog: Friday Speak Out!: When Others Have More Faith in Your Writing Than You Do: When Others Have More Faith in Your Writing Than You Do

Opening Lines- The Good, Bad, and Ugly

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 12:41:00 +0000

Aw, the elusive, perfect opening line. It’s the most important line of your book. If you can’t grab the reader’s interest from the beginning, all the gnashing of teeth, hair pulling, and hard work will have been time wasted; much like watching the news. Sometimes, your muse whispers the perfect opening line in your ear, … Continue reading

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Spicy Language

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Wed, 09 Aug 2017 21:01:00 +0000

The Daily Post Prompt: Spicy “Morning mom.” Karen stopped in the doorway of the kitchen and stared. Her mom, lost in the pages of a book, hadn’t heard a thing and her coffee sat untouched in front of her. Karen stepped back into the shadow of the hallway. Her mother didn’t move except to turn the page and … Continue reading

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The Heavy Weight of Perfectionism

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 03:18:00 +0000

My name is Sheila, and I am a perfectionist. The experts say this personality trait comes from one’s childhood. For me, that’s probably true. My mom, God rest her soul, taught me, from an early age, to do things right the first time. Or, do it over until I could do it right the first time. Want to … Continue reading

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I Can’t See a Damn Thing in This Fog

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Wed, 02 Aug 2017 19:01:00 +0000

Daily Post Prompt: Foggy Crystal pulled her glasses off for the third time and cleaned them. She tried lens wipes, spray, Windex, and soap and water; which left the worst film ever. Her husband, Roger, watched impatiently from the comfort of his recliner. “What are you doing? The movie’s about to come on, and you’ve … Continue reading

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Thank God We’ve Evolved

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Wed, 02 Aug 2017 04:45:00 +0000

DAILY PROMPT: Toothbrush I can remember as a child, my mother quizzing me, “Did you brush your teeth?” Twice a day and nothing less was the rule in our house. It was a practice I carried over to my children. I wanted them to develop the habit of brushing early and be proud of their healthy … Continue reading

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Maybe Next Time is Live

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Mon, 31 Jul 2017 11:31:00 +0000

I feel as if I’ve been in labor for months, but finally, my short story collection is here! I’d love to hear your comments. Talk to me. Tell me your story and look for me on Facebook at SheilaMGood, Pinterest, Bloglovin, Twitter@sheilamgood, Contently, and Instagram. You can follow my reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. SaveSaveFiled under: Amazon, Books, Dark … Continue reading

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Blogging Made Easier: Five Tricks You Should Know

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Tue, 25 Jul 2017 20:34:00 +0000

Originally posted on The WordPress.com Blog:
Writing interesting blog posts, creating attractive pages, and interacting with your visitors — these are essential ways to help you build a body of work, a successful business, or a growing audience online. I’m part of a team focused on design and research at WordPress.com — I like…

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You Can Now Schedule Your Social Media Posts from WordPress.com

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Tue, 25 Jul 2017 02:58:00 +0000

Originally posted on The WordPress.com Blog:
Keeping up with social media can feel like a full-time job these days — and for many it is. Posting your content on Twitter and Facebook during specific hours, and keeping things evenly spaced out, means that you need to tend to your profiles pretty often. We wanted…

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Dialogue Stories Worth Sharing

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Wed, 19 Jul 2017 10:27:00 +0000

In keeping with the theme of dialogue (if you read my last post, today’s stories to share are the winners of the Annual Dialogue Story Contest offered by Bartleby Snopes. Unfortunately, Bartleby Snopes closed their doors (so to speak) in 2016. Without further ado: Here are the Winners of the Annual Dialogue Story Contest. The Boogeyman by … Continue reading

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Tips for Writing Dialogue and Getting it Right

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Mon, 17 Jul 2017 20:27:00 +0000

Writing dialogue is one of the most challenging skills for writers to learn. Conversations dominate our lives on a day-to-day basis, but we rarely, if ever, focus on the tone, rhythm, or body language when engaged. I like to people watch. The mall or similar venues are great places to hone this skill. Observing other’s interactions … Continue reading

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Not the Headline I Had in Mind

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 23:46:00 +0000

Of all the places I thought I might meet my demise, locked inside a chicken coop, in 90-degree weather, was NOT on my list of ways to meet my maker. I haven’t seen the inside of a chicken coop since I was a child. It was a regular occurrence for Grandma Mattie to run me … Continue reading

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Catch Mistakes Before You Submit

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Fri, 07 Jul 2017 11:45:00 +0000

Have you ever submitted a story or article only to discover later, mistakes you missed? Me too, and more often than I care to admit. If you could use a little help, check out this article from Autocrit on identifying mistakes before you hit the send button. Catch More Mistakes with These DIY Proofreading Techniques. I’d … Continue reading

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It’s Almost Here!

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 17:45:00 +0000

COMING SOON! Explore the darkness within…. Beware the fury of “A Patient Woman.” I’d love to hear your comments. Talk to me. Tell me your story and look for me on Facebook at SheilaMGood, Pinterest, Bloglovin, Twitter@sheilamgood, Contently, and Instagram. You can follow my reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.Filed under: Books, Publishing, Self-publishing, Writing Tagged: #amwriting, #booklaunch, #independence, #Maybenexttime

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Happy Independence Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 06:11:00 +0000

As we celebrate this most important holiday, remember those who have fought and died for our freedoms, have fun and stay safe, especially when using fireworks. As a reminder, here are a few safety tips from the Red Cross. Never give fireworks to small children. Always follow the instructions on the packaging. Keep a supply of … Continue reading

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Which Comes First?

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 10:59:00 +0000

Which comes first? No, not the chick or the egg debate; although, I’m certain it’s a fascinating subject. I’m talking about craft versus platform. As a writer, I’m sure you read as many articles as I on the importance of having a healthy and engaging platform. After all, if no one knows you’re a writer, why would … Continue reading

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Four Lessons I Learned From Giving My Novel Away

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 13:05:00 +0000

Originally posted on A Writer's Path:
? by J.U. Scribe My free book promotion for Before the Legend is officially over as of this week. What was supposed to be a “Free Promo Week” turned more into a month long promo filled with free print giveaways, author interviews, guest spotlights, and of course free eBooks! It was…

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Happy Father’s Day

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 13:19:00 +0000

Today, whether you are a son or daughter, we celebrate the first man in our lives. Unfortunately, I lost my father when I was five year’s old; and, although I have few memories of my childhood, some of the most vivid are of my daddy. What I remember most is his smile and the laughter … Continue reading

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Writing Your Memoir

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Tue, 06 Jun 2017 12:14:00 +0000

Whether it’s one of those significant, life-altering events, stories of adventure and excitement, or a life well-lived, many people want to share their personal story. Reasons for writing a memoir are as numerous and individual as the people writing the stories, but knowing where to begin and how to organize memories into a workable page-turner can … Continue reading

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News and A Special Offer from the Cow Pasture!

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Fri, 02 Jun 2017 21:28:00 +0000

Good News from Cow Pasture Chronicles!

One Hundred Voices Volume Three is now available for pre-order in a limited edition hardcover format from Centum Press.

The Anthology features my story, Maggie’s New Beginning, along with 99 other stories from talented authors – including a story by my sister Jean Cogdell from Jeanswriting.com – Precious Memories.

As special thanks to the Cow Pasture Fence Jumpers, I’m including this 10% discount code: 100V3-36 to be used at checkout.

Remember, only 500 hardcover copies of One Hundred Voices Volume Three will be printed, so, get your copy today at bit.ly/100VoicesV3.

I hope you will enjoy the anthology and my story, Maggie’s New Beginning. If you like it, drop me a line and let me know and don’t forget to use your discount code; 100V3-36.

Happy reading from Centum and the Cow Pasture.

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Talk to me. Tell me your story and look for me on Facebook at SheilaMGood, Pinterest, Bloglovin, Twitter@sheilamgood, Contently, and Instagram. You can follow my reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.

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Filed under: Collections, Published, Short Stories, Writing Tagged: #amwriting, #centumpress, #news, #shortstories, Published

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How Much Do You Know about Memorial Day?

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Mon, 29 May 2017 10:46:00 +0000

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Today is Memorial Day. Many of us will spend it on the nearest lake, with friends and family, or attend an event. We look forward to the day, as with many US Holidays it gives us a day off from the grind of work. We know it’s a time to say thanks to those who have fought for our freedoms but do we really understand?

Here are a few facts about Memorial Day you may not know. I’ll admit, I learned a few things, perhaps you will too.

Memorial Day was first known as Decoration Day – designated the 30th of May,1868, for the purpose of strewing with flowers or decorating the graves of those who died in defense of their country.
Memorial Day was once celebrated on May the 30th, no matter the day of the week. The Uniform Holidays Act moved the holiday from a fixed date on the calendar to a designated Monday (last one in May) to create long weekends for federal employees. The bill went into effect three years later in 1971.
The Civil War was the deadliest in history with approximately 620,000 Americans died.
The Red Poppy is recognized as the official Memorial Day Flower. The wearing of poppies in honor of America’s war dead is traditionally done on Memorial Day. The practice of wearing of poppies takes its origin from the poem In Flanders Fields, written in 1915 by John McCrae.
It is customary for the flag to fly at half-staff until noon; then raised to full staff until sunset on Memorial Day.
December 28, 2000 – President Bill Clinton signed the “National Moment of Remembrance Act,” which asks Americans to pause for one minute at 3 p.m. in an act of national unity. The time was chosen because 3 p.m. “is the time when most Americans are enjoying their freedoms on the national holiday.”
The crowd that attended the first Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery remains about the same size as those that attend today’s observance: about 5,000 people.
27-30 funerals are conducted at Arlington Cemetery every day.Memorial Day marks the beginning of the summer vacation season.
Memorial Day marks the beginning of the summer vacation season.
Americans will eat 7 billion hot dogs on Memorial Day.
It is expected that 39.3 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more away from home this weekend; the highest number since 2005.

So, be safe and remember those who have fought for our freedoms. Freedom is Never free.

Filed under: Holidays, Recognition, This Day in History, Writing Tagged: #america, #amwriting, #memorialday, Freedom, Honor, Thankful

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Stories To Share

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Fri, 26 May 2017 11:05:00 +0000

As writers, we want to know our stories are being read and enjoyed by others. We love to see a comment or even a “like.”

For me, short stories are an excellent way to unwind and learn about the craft. When I come across one I find particularly engaging, I like to share it – pay it forward.

Here are some of the most recent stories I’d like to share with you -enjoy. If you like them as much as I did – pass them on and be sure to reach out to the author.

WOW Winter 2016 Runner-up: The Shower by Catherine Fitton
Norwegian American Magazine – Lily of the Valley by Jessica Laine-Mork
The Writers Newsletter – Dying to Meet You by Jane Risdon
Every Day Fiction – Black Friday by Lucy Mihajlich

I’d love to hear your comments. Talk to me. Tell me your story and look for me on Facebook at SheilaMGood, Pinterest, Bloglovin, Twitter@sheilamgood, Contently, and Instagram. You can follow my reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.

Filed under: Flash Fiction, Short Stories, Stories Worth Sharing, Writing Tagged: #amwriting, Stories to Share, Writing

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Another Great Tool for Writers

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Tue, 23 May 2017 12:44:00 +0000

We’ve all used Google maps to get from point A to point B, but have you ever considered using it as a writing research tool?

Neither had I, until reading the guest post on Writer Unboxed by Camille Di Maio.

Remembering details is not my strong point. My brain seems to have more holes in it than a sieve, and my memory is worse than a nat’s life span.

I didn’t inherit the sense of direction gene, either. I’d get lost in my driveway. So, as you can imagine, having access to the right tools can make all the difference. It’s the same when writing.

Whether the location and setting of your novel are imaginary or based on a familiar place, details do matter.

Think about the things you can do with Google Maps – Visualize streets, intersections, terrain, transit routes, lakes, and rivers and you can see all of it via satellite, live, or in 3-D. Now, we’re talking!

Let your imagination run wild; happy researching and be sure to check out Camille’s post, Google Maps the Writing Tool that No One Knows About

Filed under: Blogging, Tips and Resources, Writing Tagged: #amwriting, #googlemaps, #toolsforwriters, #writerunboxed, Writing Tips & Resources

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Audio Forensics Book Review: The Camel Club by David Baldacci

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Tue, 16 May 2017 19:00:00 +0000

If you’re a lover of espionage thrillers, you must check out The Camel Club by David Baldacci and this audio sample. It is definitely on my ‘to-read’ list.

Mystery Thriller Week

Hear ye, hear ye!

Welcome to another edition of Audio forensics! This is where I attempt to usher you into the marvelous experience of recently assimilated stories. You do… Have them right? Audiobooks? I do! The Camel Club, by David Baldacci is kind of a blast from the ‘recent’ past, published in 2005 by Hachette Audio.

Written by: David Baldacci

Narrated by: Jonathan Davis

Length: 16 hrs and 10 minutes

Series: The Camel Club, book 1

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date: 10-21-05

Publisher: Hachette Audio

Audio sample

Goodreads

Existing at the fringes of Washington D.C., the Club consists of four eccentric members. Led by a mysterious man know as “Oliver Stone,” they study conspiracy theories, current events, and the machinations of government to discover the “truth” behind the country’s actions. Their efforts bear little fruit — until the group witnesses a shocking murder … and become embroiled in an astounding, far…

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Filed under: Writing

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A Tribute to Mothers

noreply@blogger.com (Sheila Good) — Sun, 14 May 2017 11:48:00 +0000

Happy Mother’s Day!

It seems like only yesterday I was up every two hours feeding, diapering, and trying to coax by babies to sleep. Aww, those were the days! Who needed sleep?

Becoming a mother helped me discover talents I never knew existed. Here are a few of which, I’m sure, you can relate (feel free to add to the list):

Learning to enjoy group bathroom time! They’ll find you every time!
Acquiring supersonic hearing – “I heard that!”
Discovering my hips had more function than sashaying- “That child’s attached to your hip.”
I didn’t need the gym – I could bench press a toddler, diaper bag, umbrella stroller, blankie, stuffed toy, purse, and a bag of groceries at once.
Gained new language skills both in interpretation and expression – “No, Mommy did not say that word!
Could out multitask any CEO! Cook dinner, wash a load of clothes, pick up toys, and play peek-a-boo while reading War and Peace – a piece of cake!
Discovered new uses for baby powder – who knew you could go a week without showering or washing your hair! Hello, Johnson & Johnson!
Learned more about poop than I ever cared to know – including, that s&%t stinks, it won’t singe your skin, it floats, and is damn hard to get off the walls.
Forgetting to answer to my real name – who the hell are you talking to? My name’s mommy!
Secretly admiring the passion and tenacity with which those little bundles of joy pulled the strings – especially our heart-strings.

I’m exhausted just remembering. Mother’s are the hardest working humans on the planet. My hat is off to each one of you and to my girls, all grown up – you are my greatest treasure and every moment was worth it.

And, to all, you mother’s looking for a bit of reprieve or just a stroll down memory lane here’s a little tribute.

Happy Mother’s Day.

Filed under: Holidays, Humor, Mothers Day Tagged: #amwriting, #mothers, #talents, #tribute

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