tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3376916395384932892024-03-13T18:29:52.749-07:00Not Enough Time in the Daythe world of veterinarian/author/poet/publisher Tammy Dennings MaggyTammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.comBlogger188125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-82234093269332486302018-07-23T15:36:00.002-07:002018-11-05T16:34:32.284-08:00Balancing Life, Work and Writing Without a Safety Net #authorlife #vetlife<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello all!<br />
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It's been a long time since I visited with you. Life kicked me in the butt and now I'm at a point where I can breathe again...and write! Being able to put words to the page has brought me such happiness. It's hard for me to explain other than I feel like myself again. For the last two years I've been struggling, really struggling to find my way out of the darkness that nearly took my life. I'm happy to be here and ready to keep fighting to stay. Compassion fatigue and depression are debilitating for me and it's taken a hell of a lot of work to get to where I am now.<br />
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From December through March, I had to be the primary caretaker for my husband after he was assaulted in front of our apartment complex. Long story short, his right ankle was shattered and required orthopedic surgery. Multiple pins, plates and screws later, he is back to work and I finally have time for myself again. I'm working over 40 hours a week for my normal gig as veterinarian, but that has changed as well. I'm working in a Fear Free practice and that alone has cut my work related stress in half.<br />
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I. Kid. You. Not<br />
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Being able to say no to an owner who demands we trim the nails of their attack dog without sedation helps. Educating owners about the fear, anxiety and stress their pets feel traveling to and from the vet and being in the veterinary office itself is an amazing experience. About 80 percent of our clients are receptive to all of it from the start. Others take more time. A slim minority of them refuse to believe their pets are stressed or need special help to adjust.<br />
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Those are the folks I choose not to worry about any longer. I've done my part and so have my techs to inform them of the way we can help them and their pets have a less stressful visit with us. It's their CHOICE to not take the advice and it's our choice to part ways with them. No longer do we have to bend over backwards to make these few people happy, terrify their pets and injure ourselves in the process. My staff feels empowered to speak up for our patients when their owners are not aware of what is really happening.<br />
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Becoming Fear Free Certified has helped me see my own fears, anxieties and stresses in a new light. I am able to recognize when I'm about to derail and put on the breaks. I take time off and ENJOY it now. Once that happened, my muse returned and pestered me to write again. I'm still doing my crafts and reading for pleasure here and there, but since February, I have been working on multiple writing projects. Yesterday I managed to finally get The Island (Now and Forever 2) back out to the retailers. Siren reversed the rights to me in December of last year. At least it didn't take me two years to get it out like it did with the For the Love of Quinn re-release. Now all of my books are released through my publishing house, Sassy Vixen Publishing.<br />
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The new project is a joint venture with my friend, Amber Lea Easton. The shared world series is set in Ouray, Colorado during Million Dollar Fire. Little did we know that our series would release at the same time the real wildfires were racing toward Ouray. Freaky but it made our stories all that more realistic. The first five are out now. I have book six due to release in a couple months that deals with the aftermath of the fire and the final battle between the magical realms and the Fire Queen. If you haven't already guessed, my books tend to lean more toward the paranormal genres. I finally realized that is my true calling. So, look for all the magical creatures to show up with all of my pen names.<br />
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The compassion fatigue poetry journal has been a hit so now I have plans to release an expanded version of the poetry as an e-book and print (non-journal) format. It will have the original poems included with the journal, plus several more to round out my journey through it all.<br />
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The title of this post reflects how I've felt at times juggling everything I want to do in any given day. As much as people want to say they were there for me all along, I was in too dark of a place to see it. The voices told me I was alone and I would fail no matter what. The voices convinced me the safety net wasn't there even though I could see it. The moment I slowed down and stopped trying to be all things to all people, the voices quieted and the net came into view.<br />
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My brain still never shuts off completely. It's always firing off in a hundred different directions. The difference now is that most of those paths are for new stories and scenes for current works in progress. I have started to learn to be able to focus on two or three of them and let the others stand by on vacation if you will. Some are on extended world tours, but they will be back. Then we'll work together to bring another story out to the world. For me, writing and publishing my stories is giving birth to another child. Right now, I'm the mother of twenty-two...yes you read that right...22 books from all of my pen names. It's been one hell of a journey and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!<br />
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In that vein, I am working on revamping all of my blogs and websites so if you visit any of them and find them offline, please check back again. I'll have them rolling in no time.<br />
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Thank you all for following along with me. Together we'll make it a party!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
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~TammyTammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-24606056425466657822016-06-14T19:22:00.000-07:002016-06-14T19:22:04.436-07:00The Battle Rages On and the Pain Cuts Deep: #SufferInSilence with Compassion Fatigue<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hello my friends. I hope you're all doing well. I come to you today with a heavy heart and soul. As many of you know, I'm a veterinarian in my "real" life. I've been at this job for over 23 years, through many highs and lows. Right now I'm about as low as I can get. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Working in an emergency veterinary hospital has taken it's toll on me. I thought I'd be able to cope with just two days a week there and the rest with another general practice hospital. It's not working out as I'd envisioned. Over the last two weeks alone, I've had to end the pain and suffering of twenty patients. One shift...yes that's one 12 hour shift SEVEN of them came in at once. All from different families. All for different reasons. It was bad enough that one of the other families in the lobby burst into tears with having to witness the heartache of those who had to say goodbye to their pets.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take a moment and think about that scene. This family who had no contact with those pets were crushed with the sadness. My techs helped me with those patients. They were able to rotate so not one had to do them all. I was the lone person who had the task to euthanize each and every one. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I use my poetry as a form of therapy to help me express the emotions swirling around in my mind when I can no longer speak through the tears.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Suffer in Silence</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">The Noblest of Professions</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Calls to those with caring hearts.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">No one tells you about the secret</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">That will tear your soul apart.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Bit by bit it eats away at your humanity.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">To survive you must shut off your emotions</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Or your mind gives up</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">And crosses over into insanity.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Happy, joyous occasions</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Become fewer and farther between.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">As our patients grow older,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Their bodies become frail and lean.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Still we’re expected to soldier on,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">With a smile on our face. N</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Never mind the price we must pay</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">With each and every case.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">By our hands one more life is ended.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Their pain they suffer no more.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">But who grieves for us</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">When yet another is carried through the door?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">The Noblest of Professions…</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">That much is true.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Would anyone want to still be a part of it</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">If they knew what they’d be asked to do?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Ending another’s suffering comes at a price</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">That in the end is far too steep.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Could you stand by as the end draws near</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">And not allow yourself to weep?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Someone must take up the mantle.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Someone must know what to say</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">To those whose pets suffer so,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Whose broken lives must end today.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">The members of the Noblest of Professions</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Die a little every day.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">We remember each life we’ve held in our hands</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">The loss of our hearts is the price we must pay.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">The Noblest of Professions must carry on</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">And Suffer in Silence.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">To do anything else would make them appear</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Self-absorbed, uncaring, and defiant.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Truth of the matter is</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">We suffer every day.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">We carry the burden.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Our compassion is the other price we must pay.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Will you take up the mantle?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Could you die a little every day?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Will you heed the call of the Noblest of Professions</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">Even knowing the price you must pay?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f9cb9c; font-size: large;">©Tammy Dennings Maggy June 13, 2016</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The hardest part of this job is holding these lives in my hands and letting them go. Yes I know I'm ending their pain and suffering. I know their quality of life is poor and they're no longer enjoying life as a happy, carefree pet. I know this and that's how I'm able to perform the task...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Asking me to do it over and over and over again during the same shift or even within a couple days is more than I can bear. It's more than anyone should have to bear. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before you stand up and shout, "It's your job" put yourself in my shoes for one moment. Put yourself in the shoes of the family in the lobby the night so many pets came in for their last goodbyes. The ages of these animals range from very young to ancient. Some have lived long lives filled with love and others have known only sickness and pain in their short lives.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Being their advocate takes compassion, courage, strength and love. Unfortunately there isn't an unlimited well from which we can draw from to keep filled with all we need to help those who cannot speak for themselves. THIS is what wears us down. THIS is why we burn out. THIS is why veterinarians have now surpassed all other medical professions as having the highest suicide rate.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've battled depression since my pre-teens. This is so much more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The nightmares are the worst. Tired all the time? That's part of my traveling for work and trying to be all things to all people—or is it?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Looking at that list I'm sure all of us can relate to at least half of the symptoms but how many of you have a job where you have to continue to buck up and soldier on?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm not asking for your pity. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm asking you to look after your loved ones who are members of medical professions where they have to deal with life and death on a daily basis. Get them to take time off even for just a weekend away. Find support groups for them and for you so you will know how to help get them through.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Fat Chick </span></div>
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Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-385812903208930532016-04-29T17:13:00.000-07:002016-04-29T17:13:23.678-07:00Closing in On the Big Five Oh: #FatChick Zips Through the Last Year of Her Forties<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NIimNnkX9yA/Uj_YAy33MeI/AAAAAAAACis/GvIo_MiyJ0s3KBcpSHWfAVargZR6gzdPwCKgB/s1600/banner%2Bfor%2BForty%2BSomething%2BFat%2BChick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NIimNnkX9yA/Uj_YAy33MeI/AAAAAAAACis/GvIo_MiyJ0s3KBcpSHWfAVargZR6gzdPwCKgB/s640/banner%2Bfor%2BForty%2BSomething%2BFat%2BChick.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've had more than a few people ask me if I'm freaked out about turning fifty later this year. They're always shocked to hear my answer...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I. Can't. WAIT!!!!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iTDdllclvuw/UjvVvSZsQKI/AAAAAAAACg8/OZ4T2pFP7JYf69oxx5M9cyvB4yLfYEYbACKgB/s1600/birthdaycake3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iTDdllclvuw/UjvVvSZsQKI/AAAAAAAACg8/OZ4T2pFP7JYf69oxx5M9cyvB4yLfYEYbACKgB/s320/birthdaycake3.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">For me, turning fifty is a huge milestone to be celebrated and not feared. While there are some things I would have done differently in my life, I wouldn't change the overall outcome. My experiences shaped who I am today. Literally and figuratively.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The heartache and pain I've lived through has made me a stronger woman, one who doesn't take anyone's shit. On the other hand, those same experiences have created walls around me. I don't trust people easily. Not anymore. I've found myself in situations where I've placed my love and trust in people who used me for their own gain. They took what I was more than willing to give to them and left me in the cold.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As a result, I no longer take someone at face value. I don't open up or let anyone into my inner circle right off the bat. They have to earn it. Sorry if that offends anyone, but when you get stomped on, lied to and lied about it's a necessary evil.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">At fifty years old, I can finally get around those questions about having kids. I wasn't able to get pregnant after YEARS of trying with my first husband. He refused to go to the doctor to see if he was the problem. It was just one of many things that ended the marriage but another lesson learned on my part.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My current husband is my soul mate. Together we learned having children isn't in the cards for us and we've accepted it. We've talked about adoption but when we looked long and hard at our lives, TOGETHER we decided we don't wish to have children. Now that I'm approaching fifty, I won't have to deal with those who feel I'm being selfish for not having kids. I don't have to deal with the women who pity me for not being able to experience the joy of carrying my own child. At this age, if I were to get pregnant I could put my life and that of my unborn child in danger. Sorry, but going through a high risk pregnancy just so I can join the parenthood club would be the ultimate selfish act. </span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zZarh3MQMWI/VyP4RI8qpyI/AAAAAAAAF6U/J39eAi3gKc8J8oiEept9bTBbqBvK-bSDwCLcB/s1600/Veterinarian-2400px.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zZarh3MQMWI/VyP4RI8qpyI/AAAAAAAAF6U/J39eAi3gKc8J8oiEept9bTBbqBvK-bSDwCLcB/s320/Veterinarian-2400px.png" width="246" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm in the stage of my life where I can be selfish in other areas. I've worked hard in my career as a veterinarian and now as an author, poet and publisher. This is the time of my life where all the hard work is beginning to pay off.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is the time where I'm once again taking charge of my health—a never-ending quest to lose weight, keep my diabetes under control, and enjoy all life has to offer. At forty-nine going on fifty, I've actually paid my dues and EARNED the right to slow down and enjoy my life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Turning fifty will be the celebration to kick off the next phase of my professional and personal lives. Veterinary medicine will take the back seat to my writing. Both will stand in line behind my plans to see more of this country. There is so much I want to experience and it's all out there. All I have to do is take the leap of faith and have a ball!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Follow your dreams!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~The Fat Chick</span>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-60712989052572595332016-03-22T11:52:00.001-07:002016-03-22T11:52:48.881-07:00Crock or Pot: #FoodVixen Is All About the Chili #foodporn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fellow Foodies!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to my Culinary Escapades. This week I had a hankering for chili, more specifically MY chili. I developed this recipe when I bought my first crock pot. The little book of recipes included in the package had one for chili. I tried it out and it turned out okay.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But something wasn't quite right.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I found another recipe in one of my other cookbooks and compared the two. I liked the flavor of both dishes but wanted something more...with a little bit of a kick. So I combined the two into a basic recipe of my own that I can change up depending on my mood. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The end result is what you see in the photo. Besides browning the meat in a skillet, everything else can be thrown into a crock pot or large soup pot on the stove to cook together and marinate the flavors together into the perfect bowl of chili.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't like meat? Don't put it in there. Want ground turkey instead of ground beet? Go for it. More or less beans? Your choice. Don't like chunky veggies? Cut them up as small as you want them to be. Sometimes I want chunks of tomatoes in there so I use diced canned tomatoes. Other times like for the pot above, I used a can of crushed tomatoes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The amounts of seasonings listed in the recipe below are approximates based on taste. You can add more or less to suit your own preferences.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The choices of combinations are endless. This is a basic recipe. Take it and make it your own!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Vixen's Chili</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Brown 1 to 2 pounds of ground beef or turkey. Drain and set aside</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 large can (30 ounces) tomato sauce</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 large can (30 ounces) canned tomatoes (your preferred variety)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2 cans (15 ounce each) dark red kidney beans</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 medium to large yellow onion chopped</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 to 2 bell peppers chopped: I use one green and one red</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 to 2 teaspoons of garlic powder</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 to 2 teaspoons salt</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 to 1 teaspoon black pepper</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 to 2 teaspoons cumin</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3 to 6 tablespoons chili powder</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Mix all ingredients together in a large pot on the stove. Cook on medium high heat until starts to simmer. Then turn the heat down to low to continue to simmer until ready to serve. During this time, the veggies will soften and add their flavor to the sauce.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Crock pot: combine all ingredients in the crock and cover. Set for your desired time. This dish can be done in 4 to 6 hours or slow cook for 8 to 10 depending on your schedule. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Go on and have fun with this recipe and let me know how it turns out!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~Food Vixen</span></div>
Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-86994948096785322472016-02-26T14:53:00.000-08:002016-02-26T14:53:20.706-08:00The #FatChick Asks: What's with the #bodyshaming, Cheryl?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm sure many of you have heard about the comments from former super model, Cheryl Tiegs concerning the plus sized model who graces the latest Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition. Apparently, Ms. Tiegs has earned a medical degree some time in the decades she last graced the cover and feels that Ashley Graham shouldn't be there because she's "not healthy".</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8AorlIg8hhs/VtDWPQy0I3I/AAAAAAAAFeI/lVZZPcyedaU/s1600/Ashley%2BGraham%2BSI%2Bcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8AorlIg8hhs/VtDWPQy0I3I/AAAAAAAAFeI/lVZZPcyedaU/s320/Ashley%2BGraham%2BSI%2Bcover.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Her criteria? Anyone with a waist that's not less than 35 inches isn't healthy. Where did she get that bullsh...information? Dr. Oz of course. And we all know how often Dr. Oz's advice has been shown to be "out there"...at least 80% of the time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's look at it from another angle. Ms. Tiegs feels she can tell by a photo that Ashley's waist size is not less than 35 inches. If she would have bothered to check her facts, she would have determined that Ashley's waist is actually 30 inches. See all her measurements <a href="http://celebriot.com/ashley-graham-weight-height-measurements-bra-size-ethnicity" target="_blank">HERE</a>. So based on her own guidelines (and that of Dr. Oz), Ashley is in fact healthy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">By making her snap judgments, Cheryl has shown her true colors. She's part of the problem in this country. What is it with women attacking other women for their appearance? We finally put a woman with real, HEALTHY curves on a cover of a magazine looking smokin' HAWT in a bikini and she's labeled unhealthy by someone who made a living being flatter chested and stick thin.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Did you see what I did there? Don't let me get away with it. I just body shamed the Cheryl out of anger for her crap about Ashley. It's not acceptable to slam thinner folks either.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm not a healthy 49 year old. By medical standards I'm considered morbidly obese. My ideal weight should be around 150 pounds. I used to weigh 350. I've lost 100 pounds but still 100 from my ideal. Ashley's cover is the photo I put up on my fridge as inspiration because I'd "kill" to have her curves.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm going to do my best to get there!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~The Fat Chick (aka Tammy)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-35303584715477934142016-02-24T00:09:00.000-08:002016-02-24T00:09:00.701-08:00Tammy's Tidbits: Inspiration, Imitation or Plagiarism? #WWoW #MyWANA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you've been anywhere on social media over the last week, you've come across the posts concerning the latest round of plagiarism. No one appears safe from it. Sandra Brown is among a group of authors one particular person has plagiarized. What possesses a person to copy another's work and pass it off as their own? Is it laziness? Greed? The fame?</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wWr37Pvs6rQ/UilE-5vPQ1I/AAAAAAAACdE/Q4c7mis_eUg/s1600/kitten%2Bcheater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wWr37Pvs6rQ/UilE-5vPQ1I/AAAAAAAACdE/Q4c7mis_eUg/s1600/kitten%2Bcheater.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">I've thought about this for a long time now ever since an author I'd supported turned into one who had plagiarized a passage from another author on a vampire fan fiction site. It was only one passage, but the fans of the original author were able to find it easily. As someone who has never had to urge to write fan fiction, I wouldn't have known my friend had done this. Reading her work, you could see the heavy influences from True Blood, Vampire Diaries and Twilight--some of it was embarrassingly similar and more than coincidence but not outright plagiarism.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The end result for my friend is she pulled all of her work and left writing. She's left all social media and her blog is now private. Before all of that happened, she was confronted on all retailers. Comments and reviews of her books shamed her and those of us who had supported and helped to promote her releases. Some of the posts were vile, but others were spot on. Stealing another author's work is not only a crime, but the ultimate betrayal by a colleague. I felt bad for my friend, but even worse for the author who's work she copied and said was her own.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzjPUkGmOHU/UJCjOuGaNJI/AAAAAAAAESk/tlPks8i5NDQ/s1600/Light%2BBulb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzjPUkGmOHU/UJCjOuGaNJI/AAAAAAAAESk/tlPks8i5NDQ/s1600/Light%2BBulb.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">There is no way any of us can say we're not inspired by all the books and movies we've enjoyed. It's the reason fan fiction sites have become so popular. There writers can share their ideas of how they see their favorite characters in different situations in and outside the world of their favorite book, TV show or movie. E.L. James took her Twilight fan fiction and created the Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy. Fans of her writing on the website followed her from there and the rest is history.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's that fame that's fueled some to go from being inspired by another author to stealing their work. Lorelei James had to deal with a person who stole her work and posted it on a fan site as an original story. Entire chapters went up. This person denied the allegations even when presented with proof and the threat of lawsuits from Lorelei and her publisher. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Becky McGraw had to deal with another author who took her best selling MF romances and changed them to MM. Line by line comparisons showed the outright theft. The readers of MM romances who had supported the author who plagiarized felt betrayed and sick over the whole thing. Come to find out, Becky wasn't the only author the plagiarist had stolen from to create her prolific line of gay romances. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Why bring up all of this now? It's a warning to all authors to keep ever vigilant and not fall into the trap of copying another's work. Admiring their style and storytelling is one thing, blatant stealing it so you can get a piece of the best selling pie is against the law. Not only can you lose a huge portion if not all of the royalties you earned with the books, you will be blacklisted in the publishing community.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">No agent or publisher will want to represent you or your work. No blogger will want to host you or your book. No one will review your work. Go ahead and self publish...the one who ripped off Becky McGraw and others did. Same goes for the one who stole from Sandra Brown.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's not worth it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last week, another friend of mine was notified that someone in her author support groups had imitated her best selling Wanderlust series. Taglines that had been used for over a year for the series were now showing up in promotions for this "new" sweet romance. The cover and title to the "new" release was nothing like those of my friend's, but enough for others to think it was similar.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The blurb of the "new" story had a heroine from the same city escaping a heartbreaking trauma in her life to find love in an exotic locale. Reading the "new" book I had to laugh. My friend had no worries. While this copycat tried to incorporate the same feel, it's a poor imitation. Instead of creating a different story, the "author" attempted to cash in on my friend's success. While there isn't anything illegal in what this other person has done, her actions haven't gone unnoticed by the others in our same circles. At this point, she's created a target on her back and she's been labeled as untrustworthy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's not worth it, people. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take the time to create your own world and characters. Sure be inspired by your favorite stories, but don't "borrow" another's tag lines in promotions in order to ride the coattails of their success. Take your characters into new territory and allow readers to enjoy the ride with you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~Tammy</span></div>
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<br />Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-21578702008901627852016-02-15T16:39:00.000-08:002016-02-15T16:39:44.639-08:00The Vixen Checks Out Kingston WA Fave The Grub Hut #FoodVixen #foodporn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n7mUCcxb9Dc/VsJfU95-V1I/AAAAAAAAFZM/mD9JlkSgnzA/s1600/Culinary%2BEscapades%2BBanner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n7mUCcxb9Dc/VsJfU95-V1I/AAAAAAAAFZM/mD9JlkSgnzA/s400/Culinary%2BEscapades%2BBanner.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to the debut of The Vixen's Culinary Escapades! These posts are dedicated to my love affair with food. From creating my masterpieces and old favorites at home, to checking out the local favorites here in the Pacific Northwest, to trying out delicacies around the country—all will be included here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This started out on my Instagram account where I shared #foodporn photos. They've become quite popular along with the Cooking It Up with Authors feature I started on my sister blogs. I love sharing recipes of my favorite dishes and those of fan favorites. Maybe it's my Midwestern upbringing, but food plays a huge role in my life whether I'm celebrating or trying to hide away from the world.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For my Evil Day Job (EDJ) as a veterinarian, I have to travel every week. Since I'm away from home and without a kitchen to perform my culinary magic, I have to rely on the local restaurants to wow me. This week I'd like to share one place in particular that has bowled me over and knocked my socks off.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ladies and Gents, I give you <a href="http://peaceloveandgrub.com/" target="_blank">THE GRUB HUT</a> in Kingston, WA</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/68915581" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Did you watch the video? It's a great introduction to this fabulous place. It's what some would call a cute little hole in the wall as it's not a huge place, but it's packed with everything you'd want in a local favorite. My husband has family who live in the area and The Grub Hut is their go to family burger joint. I'd driven by it multiple times going to and from the Kingston Ferry terminal. I kept saying we had to stop in there and check it out. When we finally did check them out for ourselves, my husband and I immediately fell in love with the place.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQGHNWtqz9c/VsJno0emzaI/AAAAAAAAFZc/ZTvqAN2sdEs/s1600/20160105_142722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQGHNWtqz9c/VsJno0emzaI/AAAAAAAAFZc/ZTvqAN2sdEs/s320/20160105_142722.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">They have a huge selection of gourmet burgers, salads, sides and super thick milkshakes and malts. You can substitute any meat patty or chicken breast with a veggie burger if you wish. They also offer gluten free buns. There is something for everyone here and that's just what's listed on the menu. You can mix and match up the sides and have a totally different experience every time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I discovered their veggie chili on our second visit and now I have that as my side dish instead of fries.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yes, you read that right. The Fry Queen gladly gives them up for the hot, savory chili. Normally I'm an all meat kind of gal, but the flavors of this chili blend so well together, I don't miss it one bit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The above photo was our first trip. Hubby chose the Old Fashioned and I got the Bacon Burger. Both are piled high with fixings and wrapped to keep it all in place as you bite into it. That's a must have for me because I'm always dropping half of my food down the front of my shirt if I don't wear a bib. LOL! Both burgers were grilled to perfection: juicy and full of flavor. You can't say that about many burgers out there these days, but here you can rest assured you'll enjoy every bite.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now if you are one who absolutely needs your fries, be forewarned. A side of fries is a HUGE basket of them that the two of us couldn't finish. It's at least double to triple the amount that is in the above photo that comes with a burger.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This was what I ordered on my second visit. The sandwich is called My Hammy Vice. It's a grilled chicken breast with ham, Swiss cheese, fresh tomato, lettuce, grilled onions and crispy onions, and topped off with their garlic mayo. I'm telling you I was in HEAVEN with this meal. The Grub Hut strives to make sure that you get all the flavors in every bite and they didn't disappoint with this sandwich. Normally I'd leave part of the bun, but not with this one. I licked my fingers clean! LOL</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When you first walk in, you can place your order at the counter. If you choose to eat in, you then fill your drinks and find a seat. The Hutters will bring your your food as soon as it's ready. Be warned! This is a popular stop after the ferry unloads so you'll want to get in there as soon as you can. They have menus all over the place so my advice is to pick up a few for your car, purse, or wallet so you can figure out what you want before you walk in there. </span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nf-XsTmJjOE/VsJtIXQZngI/AAAAAAAAFaI/C-xLW2x3KJ0/s1600/Grub%2BHut%2BTruck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nf-XsTmJjOE/VsJtIXQZngI/AAAAAAAAFaI/C-xLW2x3KJ0/s320/Grub%2BHut%2BTruck.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Grub Hut has a food truck that travels around the area for events. If you can't make it to Kingston but want to get your grub on at your next family get together? Check out their <a href="http://peaceloveandgrub.com/" target="_blank">WEBSITE</a> for details on how to get them to cater your event. The food is prepared right there on site. You can't ask for anything better than that!</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pceQJeqQ-Nc/VsJugzL24vI/AAAAAAAAFaU/rqQ_PvqBfDQ/s1600/black%2Band%2Bwhite%2Bgrub%2Bhut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pceQJeqQ-Nc/VsJugzL24vI/AAAAAAAAFaU/rqQ_PvqBfDQ/s320/black%2Band%2Bwhite%2Bgrub%2Bhut.jpg" width="310" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Go on and give this wonderful joint a try when your in Kingston. If you don't live in Washington, put this place on your MUST DO list when you come to the Pacific Northwest. Who knows? Maybe you'll find me and my husband in or booth scarfing down another bowl of chili and trying out another burger!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Peace, Love and Grub" ~The Grub Hut</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time,</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~The Vixen (aka Tammy)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-77550118454900325552016-02-13T12:18:00.000-08:002016-02-13T14:32:17.705-08:00Cautionary Tale For the Use of Facebook Ads and Boosts from @dochappycamper #WWoW<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--CB_TGYNlcI/VH4n_heF9DI/AAAAAAAADn0/HisAKl59OyE/s1600/Tammy%2527s%2BTidbits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--CB_TGYNlcI/VH4n_heF9DI/AAAAAAAADn0/HisAKl59OyE/s400/Tammy%2527s%2BTidbits.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to Tammy's Tidbits. This is the feature that morphed from the Writer's Words of Wisdom posts I've done over the last three years. It started out as a group project between four of us that has since fallen by the wayside. All of us have been so busy and have tried to share what we've learned with our fellow authors along the way, but it's been hit or miss. I'm hoping to change that!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you've been a follower of my WWoW posts, you may recall my advice about trying out Facebook ads and boosted posts. I've shown you that you don't have to go with the recommended budgets that Facebook recommends. In fact, you can choose to boost a post or create an ad or as little as $1/day. With that being said, I've found Facebook isn't so kind to those of us on a tight budget. They don't like give promotional opportunities away for peanuts or free. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Znwm9a4Cf30/UHUbXaVZHlI/AAAAAAAAESk/RX67JxmJK04/s1600/facebook_advertising_620x350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Znwm9a4Cf30/UHUbXaVZHlI/AAAAAAAAESk/RX67JxmJK04/s320/facebook_advertising_620x350.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Let's face it. Facebook is a business and as such they desire to make money to keep their investors happy. It's why you see so many ads on the sidebars and in your newsfeed. As an author, you too desire to make money. Part of your profits come from what's left over after paying for your editor(s), cover artist, and other fees. Your marketing budget is part of those "other fees" category. Using Facebook and other social media to help promote your work, without being spammy, can be a difficult when faced with the sites in question blocking you from being able to use the ads and boosts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I write erotic romance and erotica under 5 of my 6 pen names. There's BDSM, LGBT romances and ménage. These topics are not considered "family friendly" according to Facebook guidelines so more often than not, any ad I create will be dismissed because the cover models are showing too much skin, the book promotes "alternate lifestyles that many find offensive" or...get this...the ad has too many words relative to the photo and other elements in the ad.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*blink blink*</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DOn6D4M4eds/UHUZhimjw5I/AAAAAAAAESk/9iCHtQN5Crw/s1600/FacebookShop.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DOn6D4M4eds/UHUZhimjw5I/AAAAAAAAESk/9iCHtQN5Crw/s200/FacebookShop.png" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Yes, you did just read that. Too many words will get you into trouble as much as too much skin. I've been able to get around most of this by choosing images that feature models with clothes on or objects that can pass by as "non offensive". Unfortunately, my House of Taboo page for my pen name Lia Michaels is BANNED from being able to do any ads simply because of the "promoting alternate lifestyles" bullshit Facebook rule.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I let that go because I'm not changing what Lia writes or promotes on her ADULTS ONLY page. It's set up so only 18 year olds and older can see it no matter who shares it. This doesn't matter in the eyes of the FB Morality Police. Still I let it go until my 89 year old great aunt posted about a post that popped up in her newsfeed from a PORN site showing full on genitalia. She reported it to Facebook as offensive and received a response that blew her mind.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The genitalia post did not violate any of their rules or Terms of Service.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*blink blink*</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A photo of a fully naked body showing genitalia is okay to put up in the newsfeeds but not a book cover that has a couple with bathing suits on?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Can you guess why the porn site was allowed to slide past the Morality Police?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">MONEY</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">They paid the big bucks to be able get those sponsored ads for their porn site to show up in the newsfeeds of 89 year old great grandmothers. To test out if my theory was correct, I agreed to so a Facebook ad promoting my Sassy Vixen Publishing page. Facebook has continued to hound me to do it and even created an ad that I just had to agree to. I chose a budget of $1/day for $10 days. This is 1/5 what they suggested I pay. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I clicked the "promote page" button to finalize the ad and it went live. No review process at all. They simply sent the ad live and waiting for a click. As soon as someone liked the page, they charged me the $1 for the day....and then they pulled the ad.</span><br />
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<em><strong><span style="font-size: large;">"Your ad wasn't approved because it doesn't meet Facebook's ad policies by advertising adult products or services. We don’t allow images or videos that show nudity or cleavage, even if it’s portrayed for artistic or educational reasons."</span></strong></em><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Click </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/sassyvixpub/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">HERE</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> to see the "offensive" page.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iNwF4S_Aco8/T5iczaWI03I/AAAAAAAAAPE/YrnsJJKh3X8/s1600/Logo%2B6%2Bby%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iNwF4S_Aco8/T5iczaWI03I/AAAAAAAAAPE/YrnsJJKh3X8/s320/Logo%2B6%2Bby%2B4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">There isn't anything on that page that hasn't been there from it's inception, and it's the same page Facebook continues to ask me to promote for $5/day. The original logo for my company was of a scantily clad Vixen. She is clothed but sexy. Facebook never had issue with her before.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-npxcWjF0p20/VKxnc14mqHI/AAAAAAAADuc/EId0Q5SdtU4/s1600/SassyVisenFoxlogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-npxcWjF0p20/VKxnc14mqHI/AAAAAAAADuc/EId0Q5SdtU4/s320/SassyVisenFoxlogo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The new logo doesn't have a human in it at all. The only logical conclusion here is that Facebook wants more money from me and will enforce their rules in order to get it. Meanwhile, they allow blatant violators slide by because of their bribe....errr....higher advertising fees.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Honestly, as a writer of adult fiction, I'm getting used to not being allowed to use marketing tools available to others. Honestly, it's their loss. I cater to a large market of ADULTS who wish to see this content. I follow all of their rules to the letter to make sure my pages and posts are not seen by under aged individuals, and yet still get shoved in the basement away from the eyes of those who may be offended by a photo of a side boob.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My advice still stands for ads and boosted posts. Use them! Don't give them the price they suggest. Start off small to find your target audience. If you write adult fiction, find alternative photos to use. Instead of an ad for your book, boost a post about your blog instead. Any kind of increase in the number of people who see your posts will drive more traffic to your page and to your book.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't give up! If Facebook still declines your ads and boosts, ask your friends and fans to comment on the post. Have them share it on their walls too. The more it's shared, the more Facebook shows it to others. I share almost all of my page posts this way. After five author pages share a post, I can go from 11 people viewing up to nearly 300.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Keep trying out different things to find what works for you and your brand. What works for me, may not work for you so don't be discouraged. It takes years to build your brand. Take the time to find out the best way to promote you and your work and you'll be happy you did!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time,</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tammy</span><br />
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Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-28522648797314359942016-02-05T15:43:00.000-08:002016-02-05T15:43:16.426-08:00Change is in the Air! The #FatChick is Movin' in Another Direction for 2016 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hi Ho, Guys and Dolls! Did you miss me? It's been a rough few months of crazy veterinarian schedules, writer's block, health scares and plain old exhaustion but now I'm ready to dive back into my blogs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">With all I've gone through, you would think I'd want to curl up in a ball and escape the world for a year or two, but Lady Fate has other plans for me. The scene where fictional cast of Seattle Grace works their butts off to save their friend is one I've had to deal with as a veterinarian far too often. In the show, they saved Callie. In real life, my colleagues and I weren't so lucky with a few of our critical patients. It's hard to accept there will be cases where no matter what you do, how hard you pray, how much Eastern and Western medicine you throw out there your patient will still lose it's battle.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The cute little Labradoodle puppy that damn near broke me this week lost his battle against Parvo. I had to be his advocate and say enough was enough. His pain was too great and his body too frail. He placed his little head in my hand and snuggled as I gave him one last injection. I wanted so badly to curl up in that cage with him and forget the world. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes it's just too much. Then the next one comes through the door on the edge of death and somehow you gather yourself up and give it your all. This time it works. The 10 month old puppy who was left for dead in a ditch after a car slammed into him is coming around. Thankfully no broken bones but other injuries leave him in critical condition for the following 12 hours.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The little stinker rallies and is able to go home 48 hours later to his loving and very grateful family.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">These are the reasons I continue to do what I do and not curl up in a ball and forget the rest of the world.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">They're also the reason why I won't stop writing and publishing my stories. Both of my worlds are a part of me. I am not ME without either of them. As soon as I let that sink in, the writer's block crumbled and I'm itching to get back into the worlds of my characters. Of course that means my smart ass self is back to share my thoughts on all things in the veterinary world, publishing, authors helping (and hindering) other authors, and my other passions like food and crafts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Not Enough Time in the Day was the very first blog I started after Siren Bookstrand agreed to publish my first novel <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1X9p5oz" target="_blank">For the Love of Quinn</a> </i>nearly five years ago. In a few short months, the rights to that book will be reverted back to me. I'm thrilled at the prospect as I have plans for that monster sized novel! I'm splitting it into two books and adding scenes back in that had to be cut the first go around. Next year, I'll get the rights back to <i style="font-weight: bold;"> <a href="http://amzn.to/1PYrfSd" target="_blank">The Island (Now and Forever 2</a>)</i><a href="http://./">.</a> At that point, all of my books will be under my control and I have to tell you it feels wonderful to say that. I'll be forever grateful to Siren for giving me a chance, but it's time I move out on my own with everything.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Speaking of moving on...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The last year I've been the regional relief veterinarian for a group of hospitals here in the Seattle area. They've decided to go in another direction and have offered me a fabulous contract to work full time between two hospitals instead of 13. March 1st is the start of that new venture and one that will give me a set schedule for writing again!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is the final year I can say "forty something" for my age. It's opened up many hours of reflection for me and going through the posts I've done for my memoirs, I've decided to put it all together in one book to be released at the end of the year to celebrate. The Fat Chick posts will continue. I have too much to say on things to let that go. LOL!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you've been here before, you may have noticed I've changed the side bars up to include some ad space and links to favorites. Starting this month, I will be offering ad space for sale at the top of each side bar. I'm working on the guidelines and pricing and will have a separate page for the information. You'll be able to find it in the menu tabs at the top when it's ready to go. Payments will be accepted ONLY through Paypal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Fat Chick posts, Writer's Words of Wisdom, and veterinary posts will have their own index pages also listed in the menu tabs at the top of the blog. This way you can find them in one spot. Of course, you can always use the new search this blog feature in the left side bar.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm off to help the hubby work on his new blog <a href="http://www.pintforyouandme.com/" target="_blank">Pint For You And Me</a>. He's featuring everything he knows and wants to know about brewing beer from the home, small breweries and others around the world. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time,</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Fat Chick (Tammy)</span><br />
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<br />Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-5801944543607230982015-09-29T00:02:00.000-07:002015-09-29T00:02:04.665-07:00Tammy's Tidbits: 5 Must Have Guides for Indie and Self Published Authors #WWoW #selfpromotion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Welcome back to Not Enough Time in the Day. If you're anything like me, you really don't have enough time in the day to put a dent in your "to do" list let alone complete it all. Now add all the tasks you need to accomplish as an author and you're doomed from the start.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Okay, I'm being a bit melodramatic here, but getting ahead in the vast ocean that is the Publishing World can be extremely intimidating. I've been at this officially since 2010 and I had NO IDEA what I was getting myself into when Siren Bookstrand accepted my first novel. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Like many people, I thought once you were accepted by a publisher, they were in charge of marketing and selling your book. Boy was I in for a HUGE surprise! Not only was I expected to pimp out myself and build up a reader/fan base, there was a whole other world of social media etiquette I had to learn to navigate. Lucky for me, there were several authors who were kind enough to offer their guidance and point me in the right direction.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This week I'd like to share my top five must have references every author should have in their arsenal. Each is written by someone in the publishing world and successful in their own right. Instead of keeping that knowledge to themselves, they chose to pay it forward.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1.<b><i> Smashwords Style Guide</i></b> by Mark Coker: Whether you choose to publish your books yourself on Smashwords.com or not, this guide is a must have because it goes through step by step how to create a clean Word document. All those hidden codes and formatting that Microsoft loves to insert into documents can muck up your files. If you don't find and remove these hidden pot holes, the electronic book you end up with at the end may be difficult to read. This one is free on <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/52" target="_blank">Smashwords</a> and on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Smashwords-Style-Guide-Format-Guides-ebook/dp/B004XWJ7UK/ref=la_B0050QGD5A_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1443503562&sr=1-3" target="_blank">Amazon</a>. Grab it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. <b><i>Elevate Your Writing</i></b> by Amber Lea Easton: presents her tips on how to bring your writing up to the next level in a way that's easy to understand and put into practice. With Amber's two decades of experience in the field, she can offer any author, newbie or seasoned, insight on how to succeed in this crazy business. With so many books on the market these days, we need to be able to put their best work out there, edited and polished until it shines in order to grab the attention of our target audiences. Without a guide, we can easily get lost in the sea of books. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Elevate-Your-Writing-Notes-Editors-ebook/dp/B011Z2VZCS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1443506790&sr=8-2&keywords=Amber+Lea+Easton#customerReviews" target="_blank">With Elevate Your Writing</a>, you will be able to bring you and your work up toward the top of the heap!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope she puts out a few more books to go along with this one as there are far too few guides on the market written by true experts in the field.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. </span><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Pimp Yourself: Easy, Painless, and Cheap Self-Promotion for Writers </i>by Tymber Dalton: written by a fellow Siren author, this is another book you'll want for your very own. Tymber was one of the first authors who welcomed me to the Siren fold and was more than willing to share the knowledge she'd learned through the years developing her brand. When you're first starting out, you don't have the budget to hire a PR firm to create and pimp out your pen name and books. FREE was it for me in the beginning and pretty much all the time if I can get away with it! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's the blurb: </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Congratulations, your book is published! </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Now what? </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Author Tymber Dalton walks you through quick, easy, and best of all, cheap ways to promote your book. You don't think you have time to fit self-promotion into your busy schedule? You hate doing self-promotion? With these easy tips, you'll find it's a painless process. While geared toward romance and erotica writers, writers in any genre will be able to use the information. Includes resource and link list.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Grab this one, folks! It's available on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Pimp-Yourself-Painless-Self-Promotion-Writers-ebook/dp/B0077T7GMC/ref=sr_1_51?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1443504023&sr=1-51&keywords=Tymber+Dalton" target="_blank">AMAZON</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. <b><i>Twitter for Writers: The Author's Guide to Tweeting Success (Writer's Craft Book 8) Kindle Edition </i></b>by Rayne Hall</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do you use Twitter to your advantage or is it more like a constant stream of "buy my book!" If you're like most of us, we're still figuring out the right balance between pimping out our books and being social. Rayne Hall presents some great advice on how to use the fast paced Twitterverse as an author. Here's the blurb:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Use Twitter to improve your writing, network with other authors, meet fans, build a platform, gain exposure, find reviewers and sell books. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Rayne Hall has one of the best platforms any writer has on Twitter – with over 50,000 genuine, engaged followers who enjoy her tweets and buy her books. Here she shares practical advice, fun ideas, step-by-step strategies for success – and even the embarrassing mistakes she made. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>This book is a great help to any writer who wants to use Twitter as a professional tool without wasting precious writing time. Suitable for newbies as well as Twitter veterans, it shows you how to spot fake followers, guides you past the dreaded 2,000-follower hurdle, helps you throw a Twitter party and reveals the most powerful ways to promote a book. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Grab this one on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Twitter-Writers-Authors-Tweeting-Success-ebook/dp/B00KUCPG6G/ref=sr_1_16?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1443503393&sr=1-16&keywords=Rayne+Hall" target="_blank">AMAZON</a> along with a whole list of other reference books by Rayne.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last by not least, one of the absolutely MUST HAVE and MUST READ from cover to cover and then read it again...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. <b><i>Rise of the Machines: Human Authors in a Digital World</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">by Kristen Lamb. Here's the blurb: </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Here we are—the future is now. The machines have taken over. Everything is computerized. People no longer talk, they text. What number do we have to press to get a flesh and blood HUMAN?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>It’s easy to feel like we’re losing our humanity when surrounded by computers, cell phones, and text messaging, but here's the good news: The same machines that seem to be stealing our humanity also have the power to restore it. Yes, you read correctly. The more we embrace technology, the more distinctly human we can become.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The new author in today's publishing world is a cyborg of sorts—part human, part machine. The machine part allows us to compose series of words, copy them, email them, and then send them across the globe with a push of a button. We can research faster and more accurately than ever before. We can communicate with people all over the planet real-time and virtually for free. The new power technology has given writers has made us, in effect, superhuman.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Branding has broken free of marketing’s shackles and merged with personal identity. If we want to thrive in our new environment, we need to adapt, to apply technology as an extension of our humanness.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>This is not a book to teach you 1,000 ways to blast people with advertising. The WANA Way is different than anything you’ve likely encountered. It is constructed using the timelessness of art, blended with the strength of human relationships. Platforms are more than a zillion ways to try to part readers from money; they are living works of art and meshed with the soul of the writer-artist.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The machines are rising, but humans were here first.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This book helps you learn the art of using social media to be...wait for it...SOCIAL. Instead of spamming the hell out of your fellow authors and getting blocked in the process, you learn ways to interact and build up relationships/friendships that help get you noticed by new readers. Readers who enjoy chatting with you and telling all their friends about your books.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Get this now on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rise-Machines-Human-Authors-Digital-ebook/dp/B00DP7II4A/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1443503945&sr=1-1&keywords=Rise+of+the+Machine" target="_blank">AMAZON</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is by no means an all inclusive list but my top five. I refer back to these books time and time again. In the case of Amber Lea Easton's book, I have the distinct pleasure of calling her my friend and one of the toughest editors I've ever had to work with—and I wouldn't have it any other way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm still a work in progress and so is my personal writing reference library. Yours should be too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time, keep writing and reaching for the top!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~Tammy</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-20597246518948388132015-08-21T22:32:00.000-07:002015-08-21T22:32:03.524-07:00Tammy's Tidbits: 5 Ways to Use Hashtags to be a Hit and Not a Miss #amwriting #TwitterTips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--CB_TGYNlcI/VH4n_heF9DI/AAAAAAAADn0/HisAKl59OyE/s1600/Tammy%2527s%2BTidbits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--CB_TGYNlcI/VH4n_heF9DI/AAAAAAAADn0/HisAKl59OyE/s640/Tammy%2527s%2BTidbits.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hello all! Welcome back to my little corner of the web. I thought I'd kick the weekend off with a Writer's Words of Wisdom post. I haven't done one in a while and today is a great day to start it up again. I've been in the publishing world for five years now and have learned a hell of a lot. Through trial and error, I've found what to do and what not to do in marketing my pen names and my books.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> Of course, what works for me, may not work for another but the epic fails pretty much cover everyone. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let me tell you there are some HUGE failures out there and I can't sit back and watch fellow authors continue to fall down the same rabbit holes over and over again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today's epic fail? Hashtags.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yes we need hashtags to help link our posts on Twitter to like minded individuals. They help draw in future friends and readers. They help start up conversations, connections, and bring followers to our blogs. It's all great...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">until you abuse the #</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">That's why I came up with this short list of ways to use these tags without getting you labeled as a spammer to be ignored or blocked from Twitter, Instagram and even Facebook. I've made some of these mistakes myself on my own and based on what some author support groups had encouraged me to do. I found out the hard way what works and what doesn't. Here are the highlights...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. Don't use more than two or three hashtags in a tweet, blog post title or Facebook status.</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rmPBKGkFm0c/UPZYX-eR4LI/AAAAAAAABNI/QfsardlTIl0/s1600/twitterwritte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rmPBKGkFm0c/UPZYX-eR4LI/AAAAAAAABNI/QfsardlTIl0/s320/twitterwritte.jpg" width="315" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">On Twitter, hashtags get highlighted a different color. If you have more than two or three in there, the post is distracting. It causes people to scroll on by your tweet in the stream and never check out your blog, website, or book. You want to stand out among the crowd, not be ignored.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">By making every other word in your Tweet or post into a hashtag, you will NOT appeal to anyone. They may laugh at you, but they won't engage with you. Why annoy the very people you wish to have in your corner? </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TyLbrbu2bJc/VdgGz1CT0fI/AAAAAAAAEJc/nPXgThp60h0/s1600/hashtags-smaller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TyLbrbu2bJc/VdgGz1CT0fI/AAAAAAAAEJc/nPXgThp60h0/s400/hashtags-smaller.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. Don't tag obvious words in the title of your blog post.</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pr87pmzqYP0/UUla9abPY9I/AAAAAAAABoo/IluB4frfgf8/s1600/i-love-blogging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pr87pmzqYP0/UUla9abPY9I/AAAAAAAABoo/IluB4frfgf8/s320/i-love-blogging.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">You want to tag KEY words to grab attention. You don't need to add #promotion #ebook #Amazon. For one, those are far too broad to draw in your target audience. Instead, use hashtags that narrow the field. Using #Romance is too broad. Try #EroticRomance. Secondly, you have a limited number of characters for tweets. Why waste the space on words that are already implied? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's a blog title completely made up by me, but based on a few I've had to edit in my Triberr stream. For those of you who don't know, Triberr is a group sharing site where you join tribes to help you promote your blogs on Twitter and other social media. Twitter is the main endpoint so you need to have engaging titles your tribe mates would want to put out on their feeds.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Example of what NOT to do:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: cyan;">#FREE</span> New Release from @dochappycamper<span style="color: cyan;"> #vampires #paranormal #LGBT #gay #romance #promotion #ebook #KU #Amazon</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do you see how distracting all the highlighted words are in the above example? The blog post itself is promoting the work. There is no need to hashtag that and it's too broad a category. Same goes for ebook, KU, Amazon, and romance. It can be tightened up to this: </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">New Release from @dochappycamper <span style="color: cyan;">#GayRomance #vampires</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The second one conveys the same message in a shorter format AND it helps bring in the right target audience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3. Don't use the @ and # on the same group of words in your tweet or blog title. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Use one or the other, but there is no need to use both and waste valuable character space. I've seen this a few times with blog hops. I'm not picking on one hop in particular, but this one pops up in my Triberr stream often: @MySexySaturday and #MySexySaturday. Why have both of them in the same tweet/title? Pick one and use the other for a separate, different tweet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4. Don't try to use several group hashtags in one tweet or blog post title.</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JS4b_u9oY1o/VdgChjXo8YI/AAAAAAAAEJI/R2AIdqsYxH0/s1600/hashtag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JS4b_u9oY1o/VdgChjXo8YI/AAAAAAAAEJI/R2AIdqsYxH0/s320/hashtag.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This goes along with #1. Limited character space means you have to tailor your tweets and post titles to specific audiences. If you want to get shared by members of different groups, choose the ones specific for your target audience. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For the love of all that's holy STOP using group hashtags that have nothing to do with your post, are from groups you are not a member of or have no idea what they mean. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All you succeed in doing is make your tweet unreadable, labeled as spam and probably blocked by some of the very people you want to follow you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you belong to several author support groups or tweet teams, then you must create unique tweets for each group. This will help get the word out about your posts much easier and you will gain true followers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5. Don't start your tweet or blog post title with a hashtag.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Remember how the hashtags are highlighted when they hit the Twitter feeds? Having that annoying color change right off the bat can and does put your post on auto-ignore. Sure you may draw in a few people, but most will scroll on by. That's not what you need in the vast Sea of Tweets. You want to stand out and be able to engage. This won't happen if no one bothers to read your content.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tx97MEKkLLs/VdgGC3WZIMI/AAAAAAAAEJU/lhCMlYZA8ac/s1600/i-hate-when-people-use-hashtags-wrong-getitrightpeople-cae8f.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tx97MEKkLLs/VdgGC3WZIMI/AAAAAAAAEJU/lhCMlYZA8ac/s320/i-hate-when-people-use-hashtags-wrong-getitrightpeople-cae8f.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Of course this is by no means an all inclusive list. I'm still trying to get over the jarring hashtag armies that assault me on Instagram. Whoever came up with the idea that stringing 30 to 60 hashtags with every single photo they upload to Instagram, must have been on crack. I hope they'll get control over that soon. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm sticking to my 2 to 3 hashtag rule there because I cross post to Twitter and Facebook. If you do the same, you'd be wise to choose your hashtags carefully.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time, peeps!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tammy</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-89733383880416440772015-08-16T22:53:00.002-07:002015-08-16T22:53:45.264-07:00We're on Bloglovin!<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/6110531/?claim=ubfcqt9untz">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-89623499877957273562015-07-09T19:44:00.000-07:002015-07-09T19:44:33.822-07:00The #FatChick Has Had It with Bullies Disguised as High Maintenance Creatures #MyWANA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NIimNnkX9yA/Uj_YAy33MeI/AAAAAAAACis/fWuwF6Waan8/s1600/banner%2Bfor%2BForty%2BSomething%2BFat%2BChick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NIimNnkX9yA/Uj_YAy33MeI/AAAAAAAACis/fWuwF6Waan8/s640/banner%2Bfor%2BForty%2BSomething%2BFat%2BChick.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You know it's been a heck of a couple of weeks if I'm here again with another post so soon. I've had enough drama to last me a lifetime and beyond and yet I can't tear myself away from it. It's like my favorite Real Housewives shows. I can't stop watching those train wrecks!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The publishing world is no different.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LuFlePE-1uA/VZ8ez6dcrcI/AAAAAAAAEF4/mPoXa3qMdJs/s1600/my-boss-is-a-jerk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LuFlePE-1uA/VZ8ez6dcrcI/AAAAAAAAEF4/mPoXa3qMdJs/s320/my-boss-is-a-jerk.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">In my last post I talked about the changes with Amazon. Guuuurrrrrrlll! You'd think the world had indeed come to an end and there are still people bitching about it. Now Amazon is fighting back. Those who are the most vocal on social media have had those feeds deleted from their Amazon author pages aaaaannnnnndddd their books "hidden" from the general search feeds.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ha! Welcome to the world of an author who pens erotica and erotic romance. Every single book we put out is subject to being slapped with the "adult" label and hidden from general searches. So what? All you do to get around that is promote the direct links just like you would for the links for other vendors...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Oh wait. You're exclusive to Amazon and think they'll never do anything to hide your books. You rake in the dough for them so they should bow down at your feet and let you do and say whatever the hell you want. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wRCY5T5C5RQ/UTbbO6ZpoQI/AAAAAAAABkg/KJkOx5CNV10/s1600/special%2Bsnowflake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wRCY5T5C5RQ/UTbbO6ZpoQI/AAAAAAAABkg/KJkOx5CNV10/s320/special%2Bsnowflake.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Bwahahahahahahaha! Buck up, buttercup! You are NOT all that. Amazon is a business. They were there before you published your erotic shorts and they'll be there long after they ditch the ebook business altogether. All of your whining and crying about Facebook hiding your book links or Amazon burying your books from searches and your complaints that your gravy train of cheating Amazon's royalty system need to STOP. You are NOT the center of anyone's universe other than your own. Amazon, Scribd, Oyster, Barnes and Noble, iTunes, All Romance and any other vendor out there are under no obligation to sell your books.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">YOU need them more than they need YOU.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now some of those "Amazon is Number One" authors who put themselves up as "experts" on sales and rankings are being shown up as the fakes they are. "Best Seller" status doesn't apply to free books. I'm sorry, but giving your books away for free or 99 cents in order to get yourself higher in the rankings does nothing to sustain your career. Putting out 99 cent boxed sets with authors who have hit those USA Today and NY Times best seller lists ON THEIR OWN so that you can then get the same status could be seen as a genius move...until you have to prove you can hit those lists on your own merit.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xnqcjt4bj4M/VZ8dKkMRXMI/AAAAAAAAEFs/Wr4lV9ElV2k/s1600/believing%2Byour%2Bown%2Bhype.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xnqcjt4bj4M/VZ8dKkMRXMI/AAAAAAAAEFs/Wr4lV9ElV2k/s320/believing%2Byour%2Bown%2Bhype.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">These authors have preached their hype for so long, they actually believe it themselves and attack their colleagues who choose not to put all their eggs in one basket. We're all supposed to listen and hang on to every single word they say because they talk a good game and make everyone think they're publishing gurus when all they've done is learn how to manipulate the system in order to get the results they want.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What has been done to manipulate the system? Here are a few things but the list is anything but all inclusive</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Participating in review swaps with other authors. Not so bad in itself if done with one or two other people and everyone actually reads the books. This is not what's being done and those in the swaps are pretty much expecting 4 and 5 star reviews.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Kindle Unlimited borrowing program. Groups of authors and their fans have borrowed a book, scrolled through over 10% in order for the author to get full royalty and then returned the book. A few days later, the same book is borrowed again. This ended up boosting the "sales"/borrowed ranking and got the author double (or more) royalty.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Sending in street teams to post lower rated reviews for perceived "competition"</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Creating sock puppet accounts to rate their own books higher and slam "competition"</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Publishing 10 page booklets/pamphlets in the Kindle Unlimited program so that as soon as the file is opened on the kindle, the royalty is awarded. (this is mute now that Amazon has switched to the pages read system but...)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Having your street team, family, friends and group members borrow the book from KU and slowly scroll through the pages to the end, or set the kindle to audible and let it read the book out loud while you do something else.</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Smoke and mirrors, people. Smoke. And. Mirrors.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just this last week, one of my author friends was blasted and called a sell out because she is a hybrid. She self publishes and is also published with well known publishing houses. One of our "friends" took it upon herself to give my friend advice about her career telling her she shouldn't go with a publisher but keep doing everything on her own. She then told my friend that she needed to be a part of some project in order to get more exposure and bring up her rankings.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R1-G6-nZBKo/VZ8a6ztBQEI/AAAAAAAAEFg/u5eT3P3gjqo/s1600/images%2B%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R1-G6-nZBKo/VZ8a6ztBQEI/AAAAAAAAEFg/u5eT3P3gjqo/s1600/images%2B%25281%2529.jpeg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Well, imagine my surprise when I took a moment to look at the High and Mighty One's book rankings. Each one of them had rankings much lower than my friends and she has less than a third of the books published that my friend has. Color me purple with giggles when the same "Expert" came back and tried to make nice with my friend.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">How much do you want to bet Ms. Expert did what I did and actually checked my friends rankings on Amazon...and then maybe she even took a look at some other vendors and found out that my friend could very well know what the fuck she's doing with her career?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sorry. I had to get that off my chest. It's been stewing for a long time. It all came to a head this week. I've been witness to authors behaving badly toward each other for far too long. There were two incidents that blew me away this week. I mentioned one above concerning Ms. Expert. The second has to do with another well respected author getting in the middle of a disagreement between two others. The whole thing was settled before she got involved. One had decided to cut ties with the other for her own sanity. Not everyone gets along and sometimes friendships must come to an end.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Been there. Done that and all of us survived to go on to bigger and better things.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Well in this case, the "Mediator" took it upon herself to chastise one author while appearing to take the side of the other. There were no sides to take in this other than both parties needed to part ways. Instead of letting it happen, the Mediator made one author feel like shit and pretty much told her that her career could be in jeopardy because of her behavior...behavior that had been grossly exaggerated by others who had no clue what had happened or the history between the two involved.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is a classic case of a high maintenance author in need of being the center of attention at all times. If it works, more power to her but she has no business demanding that others have to agree with it, nor should she recruit a mutual friend to "make it all better" and cry about being bullied for doing "nothing wrong." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes the best thing is to part ways and be done with it. Let it go. You came together for a purpose, learned from each other and now it's time to move on. That's not a bad thing and it sure is hell doesn't give anyone else the right to jump in and demand you remain friends. Why on earth would anyone want a friend to keep up the facade of a friendship after it's soured simply to keep the other part happy? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">By forcing others to do what you want, when you want, without compromise is not simply being high maintenance but the ultimate form of bullying. Using lies and half truths to get others to be on your "side" of a disagreement is manipulative and eventually will come back to bite you in the ass. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Instead of hanging on to all that drama and negativity, release it out into the Universe. When you do, the weight will be lifted from your shoulders, from your heart and your soul. Live your life and pursue your career the way that will make YOU happy and fulfilled. The only person you have to prove anything to is yourself. Whether you want to continue with personal and business friendships, publish your work yourself, with a publisher or a combination of the two is all on you. No one has the right to dictate to you what will make you happy, so why give them that power?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next drama...errrr...time!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">~The Fat Chick</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-73703705253800511322015-07-02T18:29:00.000-07:002015-07-02T18:29:03.030-07:00The #FatChick Weighs in on Amazon KU Doomsday #MyWANA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tick. Tick. BOOOOOM!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There. Do you feel better now? We're nearing the end of DAY TWO of Amazon's new royalty pay out system for the books borrowed through their Kindle Unlimited program. How many of you have been on your computers wailing, gnashing your teeth and sending out furious hashtag filled tweets across the Internet?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Has the world come to an end for you?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sorry, but all this craziness is over the top. The program just started up yesterday and there are authors lamenting they'll have to find some other way to get money since their income will be drastically cut.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All based on less than 48 hours of figures. (Click <a href="http://www.hughhowey.com/great-ku-flip-2015/" target="_blank">HERE</a> to read a great blog post by Hugh Howey)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Now</i></b> some want to throw in the towel since they may have to wait an entire month or maybe two to determine if the program will continue to pay them what they've been used to receiving while they've been faithful Amazon exclusive authors. Oh wait, maybe those were some of the hundreds of authors who busted up their novels into ten page pamphlets so that they would get paid the full royalty as soon as the reader opened their files on their Kindle?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you were one of those authors who deliberately released those shorts, then you have no one but yourself to blame for Amazon's change up. You should NOT have been receiving the same royalty as someone who published a 100 or 200 page novel. You cheated the system and ended up causing Amazon to lose more money than they were already bleeding through their publishing side of their company.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another group to blame are authors and their publishers who abused the system by having others repeatedly borrow books, scroll through 10% or a more for good measure, then return the book only to turn around in a day or two and borrow the book again. Now the author/publisher is getting double or more of the royalty intended for the "book". Tell me where that practice was ever fair?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">With all the barely there "books" in the system, how could Amazon sustain the program as it was? How could authors who take the time to develop beautifully written novellas and novels get a break and be noticed in the sea of crap?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My friend and fellow author Zoey Derrick posted about this very thing within the last hour. Here's the <a href="http://zoeyderrick.net/2015/07/ku-2-0-day-one-done-day-two-even-better.html" target="_blank">LINK</a> to her post. She'd made the choice to become exclusive to Amazon only a month ago and has decided to give it the full 90 days to see how it works for her and her readers. I think she made a wise decision. Two days of numbers won't give her a good idea of how things pan out. I applaud her for staying in there. She is one of the authors who write FULL length books with fabulous characters and stories that grab you and never let go. She may very well be one of the success stories with this new system because readers will WANT to complete the entire book and Zoey will be paid accordingly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I gave Amazon exclusivity a go with one of the anthologies and it was not good for me. My readers kept asking when it would be out on Kobo, iTunes, BN and All Romance/Omnilit. I had built up a following there and didn't want to disappoint them. Once my 90 days was up, I pulled it out of Kindle Select and never looked back. That was the best decision for me and all of my pen names.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Subscription services on the surface look great for the consumer. You pay a flat monthly fee and you're able to borrow as many books as you can read. Amazon only let you "check out" ten at a time but once you finished reading any of them, you could send them back and fill those slots again. Well, companies offering these services grossly underestimated the voracious appetites of romance and erotica readers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is why there will be more restructuring...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Scribd just dropped a huge chunk of romance and erotica books from their listings. They couldn't continue to pay the authors the full royalty for books borrowed out of what they were taking in from the subscribers. Unfortunately, instead of reworking and renegotiating the rates, Scribd dropped a shit ton of books angering their distribution partners, authors and readers all in one swoop.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Oyster hasn't listed any of my adult books. At first I thought it was yet another site snubbing the hot stuff, but no. It's all about money. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just like with Amazon.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lesson through all of this is you must treat your writing and publishing as a business. You have to do what's right for you, your brand, and your work. If keeping exclusive to Amazon is what you want...do it but stop bitching. There will be ups and downs. Either ride it out, or get the hell out of dodge. Amazon isn't the only vendor out there. If you spread out, PROMOTE those other sites! don't assume readers will just stumble over your work and you'll take off. It takes work—a hell of a lot of hours of it to get your books in front of readers. If this is what you want to do for a living, then get off your ass and DO IT!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~The Fat Chick</span><br />
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Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-52035958291532816092015-06-17T00:00:00.000-07:002015-06-17T00:00:55.049-07:00The #FatChick Has Had It with All the Bullies and Their High School Games #KIBJ<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Hello all. I'm here this week to talk about something that's pretty much an ongoing issue in the publishing world as well as every day life. Every time we turn around there are stories in the news about kids taking their lives because of nonstop mean, cruel harassment from their classmates. These evil twits use the social media, texts, and phone calls to mercilessly rip another human being to shreds.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Why? Because they feel like it. We can say all we want that the "bullies" have issues with their own self esteem but truth of the matter is these people are just plain mean. They thrive on bringing others down. Our society gives them the attention they crave when they do this crap and reinforces their shitty behavior.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>True bullying is rampant in the publishing world too—from authors attacking fellow authors who they feel are "competition" to authors attacking reviewers for daring to not LOVE their books to "reviewers" making it their life mission to shred an author to confetti because they can. It's consuming every inch of the world wide web and you would think there couldn't possibly be room for any more...</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Think again.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Now the folks who were bullies before are claiming to be victims now. Every real or imagined slight is now being labeled as an attack by "jealous bullies." Instead of talking it out, insults and threats are tossed out so others can join in on the feeding frenzy. It's damn easy hiding behind a computer screen and attacking a stranger. You can bet your sweet behind the same thing wouldn't happen if the people were face to face.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>It's time to take back our power. The lies and half truths being tossed out there don't have to mean squat and they don't have any power over their target/victim if they don't let them. Yes, that's a hell of a lot easier said than done, but shut off the cell phones, shut off the computer, don't get dragged into commenting on "bad" reviews or posts on social media. Don't get into Twitter wars. Just let it all go. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Only YOU have the power to make it stop. When you publish a book, you have to accept the fact not everyone will adore your work. You are not the Universe's Gift to literature for every man, woman, and child. You may very well be that for some. Celebrate those victories and keep moving on.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Mistakes are made by EVERYONE every single day, sometimes repeatedly. Hell, I'm in that category at least twice a week myself. I can choose to wallow in it, or learn from my mistakes and become a better veterinarian, author, poet, publisher and cover artist. I can become the person I want to be: kind, caring, smart, witty, strong and loving. I'm far from all of that on most days but I'll be damned if I'll stop trying to get there.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>True bullying is horrible. Labeling every little slight as a form of bullying is over the top. Shit happens and sometimes there isn't someone out there pulling the strings to make your life miserable. If you are someone who is the victim of bullying, or you think you are definitely TELL SOMEONE. At the very least, talking about it could give you the support you need to find your way out of the dark. You don't need to suffer in silence.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>For those real bullies who are now getting a taste of their own "medicine"...</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Damn. I really want to say "serves you right!" </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Unfortunately that would bring me down to their level. I have to fight with this every day. As a Wiccan, I strive to "above all do no harm." If I take pleasure in the fall of a bully, I'd be adding to another's pain. It's a horrible dilemma but I can choose not to go down that path. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I think I'll just let Karma figure it all out...</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>#KIBJ (you'll find out what this hashtag means soon!)</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Until next time, lovelies!</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>~The Fat Chick</i></span>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-65202320371789387282015-04-25T16:23:00.000-07:002015-04-25T16:23:14.386-07:00Three Weeks Down and the #FatChick is Loving Life Again #HealthyHabits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Welcome to Not Enough Time in the Day. I'm The Fat Chick and this week I'm sharing my journey to better health and a new me. To help you catch up, I'm a diabetic, on a diuretic for my high blood pressure, obese, stressed out veterinarian, best selling poet and author (under four pen names), and wife to the best husband of this and all life times.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>aka Tammy. :)</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Here I am three weeks into my program on Sparkpeople.com and I've lost over 18 pounds and 6.5 inches from my body. I'm still building up my stamina for my cardio workouts, but their getting easier with each day that passes. Next month, I'll move on to longer routines. I'm excited about that since the Walk Away the Pounds workouts have always been my favorite and regaining the ability to get through a 5 mile boosted walk in an hour is one of my short term goals. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>My blood sugar levels have stabilized and dropping to below 119 now instead of a whopping 167. Yeah, I know others have much higher levels, but if I would have kept going they way I was going, I would have had to start insulin. I'm afraid of needles so this broad is going to kick her own ass in gear to make sure I never have to get those injections.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Take that, pancreas!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>My blood pressure has improved as well and my medium range goal is to get to the point where I don't have to be on it anymore. I tell you it's not fun chugging all the water I have to drink for my program while being a diabetic on a diuretic. Get the picture?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DyhWUK02t5I/UkpmKgWdKaI/AAAAAAAACmU/cIWjSbWbcZU/s1600/Bladder-Control-Problems.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DyhWUK02t5I/UkpmKgWdKaI/AAAAAAAACmU/cIWjSbWbcZU/s1600/Bladder-Control-Problems.jpg" /></a>Seriously, I'm enjoying the journey this time around and instead of throwing myself in 1000%, I'm easing myself into it. In the past, I've burned out on it after getting to the 80 pounds lost level and then gained it all back. I don't want it back again. So by making these gradual changes, my hope is to create lifestyle changes that stick with me forever.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>So there you go! I'm still hanging in there and moving forward with my plan to reinvent myself. I'm not creating a whole new DIFFERENT person, but simply letting the real me see the light of day again.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Until next time,</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The Fat Chick</i></span></div>
Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-24110004571155425662015-04-16T13:33:00.001-07:002015-04-16T13:33:34.925-07:00#FatChick is On the Road to a Healthy LIfestyle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">I'm happy to report I've gone back to my old stomping grounds on <a href="http://sparkpeople.com/">Sparkpeople.com</a> to help me on my journey to regain my health. For those of you who don't know about it, Sparkpeople.com is a FREE site that offers all you need in order to find a healthier you. There are trackers for your weight, food, exercise, water intake and so much more. You can join groups for support and you can be as active in them as you wish, or stay on lurker status. It's all up to you. They have free videos you can watch to help with your exercise program, inspiration, recipes...and so much more.</span></i><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t1cb_f1EAAE/VTAbbF97W8I/AAAAAAAAD60/1sWgk4oR6wQ/s1600/sparkpeople_logo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t1cb_f1EAAE/VTAbbF97W8I/AAAAAAAAD60/1sWgk4oR6wQ/s1600/sparkpeople_logo1.jpg" height="208" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">All for free.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">I found the site in 2008 after joining BiggestLoser.com. I had to pay for that one but found everything I needed and more on Sparkpeople for free. I could use their meal plans or simply enter my own food as I went. I didn't have to purchase any special equipment or join a gym. Everything I need to workout is already in my home. Of course I did get some new videos, body bands and weights to change things up a bit, but it was a small investment and I have everything with me now.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">It's been five years since I was on Sparkpeople full time and I really missed it. I was worried that I would have issue with my crazy schedule getting everything I did and ate during the day into my trackers before I went to bed. Lucky for me, they have a free app for my phone. I can enter everything I do throughout the day and keep up with my progress.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">I'm happy to report after two weeks I'm down 16 pounds. While that seems like a lot for two weeks, most of it came off because I cut down the snacking and junk food and cut out soda/pop for the first week. I did have one small bottle of coke yesterday but it took me several hours to drink it. LOL! Only a month ago I would have downed four of those small bottles in the same time period.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">I had a flareup of gout arthritis in my big toe so I hadn't been able to jump right into the cardio workouts I picked out, but this week I'm gearing up to start again. I love the Walk Away the Pounds work outs and the free videos on the website. I have so many things to choose from that I know I'll be able to change things up and not get bored.</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I</i><i>'ve learned that if I go to fast and furious with the workouts in the beginning, I burn out on them later when I need them the most. I'm determined to make this lifestyle change a permanent part of my routine. I'm not stupid. I know there will be bumps in the road again, but with my husband's help, I'll get through those and keep on the right path. We have so much we want to do together and I for one can't wait to get rolling!</i></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">See you all around next time,</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">~The Fat Chick</span></i>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-83084628938867630092015-03-26T21:57:00.000-07:002015-03-26T21:57:32.921-07:00Wake Up Calls and Heartbreak for the #FatChick #cancersucks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Hello all,</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>It's with a very heavy heart that I write today. An author who inspired me to keep following my dreams with all four of my pen names and continue self publishing with Sassy Vixen, left the world this week.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Brit Blaise (aka Judi Thoman) fought cancer and won the first time it entered her life, but the second time blindsided her. She fought hard and soldiered on during the battle, continuing to write and share the posts of other authors through social media. Finally her body could take no more and she moved on to the next chapter. Now she's free of the pain and never has to battle fucking cancer again.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Sorry. Normally I don't let the swear words fly on this blog but I'm pissed. It's not fair someone can win their battle against breast cancer only to have it thumb it's nose at her and come back with a vengeance. It seems to me there are more than enough people for this nasty group of vicious killers to attack. Why does it have to go for seconds or even thirds?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I know that sounds morbid and that if it wasn't Brit, someone else would be attacked. Well why not some of these evil shits who take great pleasure in causing others grief? Why does Cancer have to bulldoze it's way into the lives of caring, loving, people?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Where is Karma? When someone gives so much back to her peers why did she have to go out this way? Where was her reward for paying it forward and reminding people to live every day as if it could be their last and follow their dreams wherever they may lead? Where is her kudos for going through hell and back the first time?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Losing Brit has brought back so many of the memories and emotions I went through losing my dad in 2005 to Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma. He braved through EIGHTEEN rounds of chemo and the original tumors continued to grow. He did everything right. He quit smoking nearly thirty years before his diagnosis. He was physically fit, a retired Marine, and worked for the local police department. At the same time he developed his own company and traveled for speaking engagements. He was the last person you would think cancer would strike down...</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>A year after his death, my uncle (Dad's brother) was diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia. Our family had to go through it all over again, but this time the cancer was knocked back and my uncle is still in remission.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I have had a lump in my breast for several years now. I've had it checked out multiple times and it remains benign. The last mammogram confirmed it too. My doctor has suggested additional testing for myself and my other family members since there is breast cancer and others on both sides of the family. Up until now I've been reluctant to pursue it. With the loss of Brit and several other author friends dealing with various types of cancer, I've changed my mind.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I've finally found my happily ever after with my husband Liam and I'll be damned if I'm going to miss out on any moment of it because I'm too scared to find out the full extent of my health issues. I owe it to him to be tested and more importantly, I owe it to myself not to be cheated out of my life because I waited too long to be diagnosed. I'm setting up my doctor appointments for the coming weeks and taking charge of my life. Enough hiding!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Until next time,</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>~"The Fat Chick"</i></span>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-6802235340830674362015-03-10T21:40:00.000-07:002015-03-10T21:40:37.692-07:00The #FatChick Gets a Grip On One of Her Fears #anxietyattack #MyWANA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Hi Ho! The Fat Chick is back and ready to share more of her crazy ass journey through life after forty. For those of you just joining us, thank you! This is a little feature where I share my journey through all the bumps and briars of my life now that I'm in my late forties. Don't get me wrong. I love my age but there are some things that happen to all women in this age bracket that are just too damn funny to pass up talking about. Of course there are some things hard to get through for all of us and I hope that by sharing my story, the journey of others is a little bit lighter.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>This time I'd like to talk about conquering long held fears. I have many and some are pretty mild. This one is quite debilitating. I have a fear of drowning. I can swim, fish from a boat and go over short little bridges without a problem but put me on a long spanning suspension bridge or on a...ferry...and I turn into a blubbering bag of flesh and bones.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Part of my job requires that I travel throughout the Seattle region to work at various veterinary hospitals. The best routes to one of them require a ride on one of the Washington ferries or drive 90 miles around. The first time I worked there, I did drive around. I wasn't ready to get on that ferry no matter what anyone said to me. Last week, I tackled it with my husband at the wheel.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>It wasn't pretty.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I shook and cried and yes tossed my cookies. So many people offered me remedies for my nausea and sea sickness. Problem is, I don't suffer from sea sickness and the nausea had nothing to do with being around the water. What they were witnessing me experience was a full blown anxiety attack.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Dramamine doesn't help that. Meditation doesn't help me for it. Getting drunk off my ass doesn't help either although it would be perfect if it did. Just kidding! (maybe) The only tried and true way for me to get through it is to experience it over and over again. This is a process called flooding.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>By going through it repeatedly, step by step, my brain can process it all and analyze it. The unknown is held at bay and my mind is occupied with getting through each step. The thoughts of the ferry going down and me being trapped in my car in the center of it, unable to get out stop running on a loop in my brain. The return trip only set me shaking. No vomiting. Yay me!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Today was the big test. I had to make the trip alone. I have to work at this hospital again tomorrow and by traveling over tonight, I stay at a local hotel so I can be there ready to rock and roll at 7am. My dislike of mornings is topic for another day, let's just say there was no way in hell I would make it up and over here in time if I had to drive in the morning for this shift.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>What happened? Nothing but a little stomach butterflies. I purchased my ticket and parked in the waiting area. Within fifteen minutes we were moving. They directed me where to go and I ended up in full few of the front and the water. So cool! I waited a few minutes to be sure I wasn't going to go postal and then got out of the car. I made my way to the galley and got myself a hot pretzel and a Dr. Pepper to celebrate.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I did it! I made it through the whole process without any freaking out. No vomiting. No visions of the water rushing around me and into my car while I struggle to fill my lungs with enough air to be able to swim to the surface...</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>ohhhhhh...damn it...Just kidding! None of that happened today. Whew!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Here I sit on my little Netbook writing this post and smiling. I made it through one more trip and survived. Day after tomorrow I have to make the return trip bright and early so I can be back in time for a 9am shift at another hospital. As long as I have my plan of action, I think I'll be fine. Just in case, I'm going to take the advice of one of my friends.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Since my fear is being in the middle of the ferry, trapped in my car while the thing sinks, she told me to get my butt to the top of the ferry. Let the insurance replace the car. If the ferry goes down, I'll be on the sun deck and the first off that bad boy!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Until next time,</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>~The Fat Chick</i></span>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-38683552187488232382015-02-07T21:55:00.000-08:002015-02-07T21:55:05.809-08:00#WWoW: How to Use Facebook Boosts to Your Advantage #MyWANA #Promotip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Welcome to another edition of <span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Tammy's Tidbits</b></span> here at Not Enough Time in the Day. This week I'd like to share a new booklet written by a fellow author K.L. Silver. Besides writing, Ms. Silver has an extensive background in marketing. Through trial and error, she's found a way to use Facebook boosts in order to help with her book promotions.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>With the new guidelines, Facebook is making it harder and harder to get our posts in front of the people who like and follow our pages. By cutting the organic reach, it forces us to pay to get our posts in front of the very people who wish to see it. Some people have decided to leave Facebook because of this, but why give up something that you've worked so hard to build up?</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Why not find a way to use the tools to your advantage WITHOUT breaking the bank to do it?</i></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PngVuTYBNck/VNb1iBNyUfI/AAAAAAAADx8/8AnGkejuu8A/s1600/Juice%2BYour%2BBoost%2BCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PngVuTYBNck/VNb1iBNyUfI/AAAAAAAADx8/8AnGkejuu8A/s1600/Juice%2BYour%2BBoost%2BCover.jpg" height="400" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SF98MX0/ref=rdr_kindle_ext_tmb" target="_blank">Get Your Copy NOW</a></span></td></tr>
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<br /><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Juice Your Boost</span></b> is a must have guide for every author who wishes to use Facebook as part of their overall marketing plan. Ms. Silver puts it all out there, step by easy step. No longer do you have to go with the suggested boost dollar amounts. You can get a surprisingly high reach with a boost as low as one dollar.</i></span><div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>That's right. ONE BUCK.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Don't believe me? Give it a try yourself. Create your a promotional post on your page. Click the boost button and choose the audience you wish to see it. Don't choose your current followers and friends. They're already targeted albeit in low numbers for now. Trust me, the more people who see this boost, the more your current fans and followers will see it too. Set your budget for only $1 and then let it go. This will be your test run to see how it works for you.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>By using the techniques in this book, you'll be able to tailor your posts and the target audience to get the most bang for your buck and for any additional dollars you wish to add to the campaign. Gone are the days you have to start off with $20 in the hopes your post will get in front of a couple thousand people.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The first time I did it, I spent a total of $3 and my post reached over 2,000 people. Of that 1900 of those were paid reach but over 100 were purely organic...from my own followers. If this post wasn't boosted, it would've only been seen by 10 to 20 people at the most and the page this post was on has over 1000 followers. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Facebook told me my $1 would only get me 100 to 200 reach at the most. At $3 they said 500 to 600 if I was lucky. As you can see, I did much better than they predicted AND I used their boosted system to do it.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>What are you waiting for? Grab <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SF98MX0/ref=rdr_kindle_ext_tmb" target="_blank">Juice Your Boost</a> </b>today and see for yourself how easy it is to use Facebook to your advantage once again.</i></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-83480323504625694172015-01-21T00:00:00.000-08:002015-01-22T16:49:35.814-08:00#WWoW!: Don't Bully Your Peers! #ethics #MyWANA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--CB_TGYNlcI/VH4n_heF9DI/AAAAAAAADn0/HisAKl59OyE/s1600/Tammy's%2BTidbits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--CB_TGYNlcI/VH4n_heF9DI/AAAAAAAADn0/HisAKl59OyE/s1600/Tammy%27s%2BTidbits.jpg" height="240" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>This week has been another filled with eye-openers. Not only did I witness one of my author friends be dragged into another's fight with Goodreads, one more decided to take it upon himself to wage war with a few of us who declined to download his book and review it. Nothing like being accused of not being a team player because I exercised my right to choose my own reading material.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>If you've spent any time online over the last few years you've undoubtedly run across several posts about authors behaving badly. I've written a few of them myself. It's time to take a good, hard look at the whole world of publishing: from readers and reviewers, to authors, to publishers and start holding everyone to a higher standard.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><i>First rule: STOP BULLYING EACH OTHER!</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-340MIZI7hro/VL9KqJ7sLfI/AAAAAAAADwY/TboB8bGNK3I/s1600/antibully.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-340MIZI7hro/VL9KqJ7sLfI/AAAAAAAADwY/TboB8bGNK3I/s1600/antibully.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I don't care if it's reader vs. author or author vs. author. Just. Stop. There is no reason for it. If one side wants to troll another, there is no point in getting yourself in the middle of it. All it will do is escalate and cause both sides to target YOU.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Readers have a right to read what they want and post their opinion about the books they do read without fearing an author is going to bombard the review or demand it be pulled because it wasn't a glowing 5 stars. If you put your book out for sale (or for free), you hope more people like it than don't but you can't stack the likes in your favor. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>It may not be illegal or against the rules to do review swaps or campaign for people to vote for your books on the Goodreads lists, or in other popularity contests, but it's not altogether ethical either. It's shady at best and frankly, leaves a bad taste in my mouth. Did I try it out myself? Yes and that's how I found out it didn't make me feel good doing it. I won't participate in those sorts of things in the author support groups I'm in. They don't feel right for ME.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Imagine my surprise when a member from one of those groups sent me a private message asking me to download his book that was currently for free, read and review it. I was shocked because there are daily posts in the group we are in for this sort of thing. If you participate in that thread, that means you feel comfortable doing those sorts of reciprocal tasks. It's been mentioned time and time again to NOT private message group members to solicit help. Unfortunately, this person didn't think those rules applied to him.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>When I replied I didn't do that sort of thing and why I didn't participate in the threads in the group, he seemed to take the refusal in stride but then asked me to still download the book to help boost his rankings.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Seriously.</i></span><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-myxDUBetBZ0/UPZV6rQr_XI/AAAAAAAABMw/XzS1B1BJDqs/s1600/it's%2Ball%2Babout%2Bme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-myxDUBetBZ0/UPZV6rQr_XI/AAAAAAAABMw/XzS1B1BJDqs/s1600/it%27s%2Ball%2Babout%2Bme.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>He wasn't happy with the response he was or wasn't getting WITHIN the threads in the group. He continued to harass members in private. He doesn't see anything wrong with this and feels we should do as he asks in order to be team players. I'm sorry, but the only team I'm on is <span style="color: magenta;">Team Tammy.</span> I have to watch out for myself, and my brand as an author...times four. I'm not under any obligation to promote anyone else simply because I'm FB friends with them or belong to the same author support group.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I did that for a long time and it got me nowhere. I shared and shared for others but when it came down to them reciprocating for me...crickets. Crickets and excuses. I changed groups to those I thought offered a wide variety of things so I didn't feel as if I was forced to do things against my own principles. Now this.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I didn't receive the biggest part of his wrath. He's attacked another of my author friends and has threatened to "make her pay" for not being a team player. He's now claiming SHE "victimized" him in this whole thing. He feels victimized because someone had the balls to tell him NO.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Yes you read that right. Victimized.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><i>Second Rule: Be Gracious and Don't Take the Bait</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>This is the hardest rule to follow especially if you're on the receiving end of an attack. Whether you're a reviewer/blogger or an author, it's hard to keep quiet when someone rallies their friends to attack you and your work. What's put out on the Web is there forever even if you delete it. Damage control isn't easy and can take a long time for you to bounce back.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Mean Girls/Guys, Trolls, Bullies—whatever label you wish to put on them get their power from you. I'm not saying don't stick up for yourself, but do so with class. Don't stoop to their level of threats and bring in your posse to "make them pay." At that point, you're no better than they are. Have I had similar thoughts about getting "even" with people? Yep...in private. I turn those thoughts into scenes for my books. Safer that way for everyone concerned. :)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>This is another area where authors have convinced other authors to help them fight back against people who they feel are treating them poorly. The instance I mentioned at the beginning of the post is one that comes to mind. One author asked my friend to help with an issue she had in her dealings with Goodreads. My friend is always willing to help so she thought she would give a 5 star rating to the other's book to help offset the many 1 stars it had garnished.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>What my friend didn't know and what the other author neglected to tell her was there had already been a huge battle playing out in the Goodreads threads and much of it the fault of the author. So by supporting someone she thought was her peer, my friend ended up in the cross hairs of some very angry people...those who couldn't understand why she gave such a high rating to this person.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The outcome for my friend? She admitted she was duped by the other author and she's no longer on anyone's shit list. Read all about it <a href="http://madisonsevier.blogspot.com/2015/01/leave-me-out-of-your-goodreads-games.html">HERE</a>.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><i>Third Rule: Target Your Audience NOT Your Peers</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>This really should be self-explanatory but time and time again I run across authors who just don't get it. Your peers are not the ones who will go out and buy your books. Sure some may turn into fans, but the vast majority of them are fighting the good fight right alongside you. We're all looking for new ways to get the word out about our books. Posting your buy links in AUTHOR support groups isn't going to bring you sales. Neither will posting on another person's page or Facebook wall without their permission.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>What will? Connect with potential readers through social media by being yourself. Chat about other things and interests. Make readers WANT to learn more about you and your characters instead of forcing promo after promo down their throats. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Do NOT send private or direct messages to your peers telling them about your latest release and beg them to share with their friends and followers. Do NOT get all pissy when they tell you no. If you don't have the time to get to know them why on earth would they do you a "solid" and pretend to support you and your work?</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>You want REAL, LIVE readers to check out your work and leave reviews. Rankings achieved by playing the system and jumping through loopholes are hollow and mean nothing if you don't have fabulous stories to back them up. What makes this behavior any better than the "trolls" who comb the genres and drop 1 star bombs with reviews that attack the author personally? Both sides are manipulating the system and in the end negate their desired end results.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><i>Final thoughts...</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>If it feels wrong to you, don't do it. Just because it looks successful on the outside doesn't mean it will work for you or make you feel good doing it.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Don't spam or target your peers. Make real connections with readers...your actual target audience.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Don't assume your peers are under any obligation to help you achieve your goals. If you want to get to the top of the rankings, you need to EARN it on your own merit, not on the "clicks" of others.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Readers/reviewers are NOT your enemy any more than we are theirs. It's time both sides do what they do best and treat each other with respect.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The publishing world is hard enough without all of the backstabbing and in fighting. Walk away from the drama and concentrate on what's most important: reading and writing!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Until next time,</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>~Tammy</i></span>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-68584167456473274052015-01-14T00:52:00.000-08:002015-01-14T00:52:25.601-08:00#WWoW! @dochappycamper Revisits Getting Organized with #Scrivener #MyWANA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Hello new visitors and returning readers! Welcome to <span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Tammy's Tidbits</span>. </i><i>From writing, blogging, editing, critique partners, social media and more, these posts are meant to show you my journey through the world of publishing. Some things have worked very well, while others...not so much. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The following post was originally done just before I released my vampire inspired poetry book, <span style="color: #d5a6bd; font-weight: bold;">The Courtship of the Vampyre.</span> This is a step by step description of my experience using Scrivener to organize my work for that project so don't get your panties in a bunch when I mention poems instead of chapter or scenes. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I'm telling you, the program saved my backside on numerous occasions by helping me keep everything at my fingertips. Since the original post, I've used the split screen feature to help</i><i> with edits of <span style="color: #d5a6bd; font-weight: bold;">The Surrender of Julia(Now and Forever 3)</span><span style="color: #a64d79; font-weight: bold;">, </span>kept my NaNoWriMo projects rolling along, and organized everything for the Bigfoot Chronicles series I write as Tawny Savage. This program has become invaluable to me. I don't know what I would do without it at this point.</i></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Without further adieu, here's my introduction to the wonderful world of...</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-size: large;">I was reluctant to try this writing program even after all the rave reviews by fellow author friends. I mean, I had a system that seemed to be working for me and I didn't want to mess with it. That is, until I ended up adding more projects to my "To Do" lists for all four of my pen names. The number of paper notebooks I hauled around with me at any given time had begun to weigh me down—literally!</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-size: large;">The program for Windows (and Mac) was readily available through Amazon for $40. I figured , "What the hell?" I had a credit from Thank You Points left over from another purchase, so I wasn't out any extra money. So with the click of my mouse I bought the program. The download was easy and painless as was registering the product with the Scrivener site.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-size: large;">So what now?</span></i><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nph4z1HFIls/UGMfMd3MgNI/AAAAAAAAAYo/gk-usPJN90Q/s1600/09242012beautifulEbooksWithScrivener500x750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nph4z1HFIls/UGMfMd3MgNI/AAAAAAAAAYo/gk-usPJN90Q/s320/09242012beautifulEbooksWithScrivener500x750.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></span></i></a></div>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">With most new "toys" I tend to just open it up and figure it all out as I go, but this looked too damn daunting. To get a bit more help, I went back to Amazon and found a few books that would help me with creating an ebook using the program and of course I had the help that came along with the program itself. Not only did it come with a manual within the program, it also had a tutorial. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Hmmmm...this was going to be a first for me, actually watching the tutorial!</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-size: large;">Trust me, no one was more shocked than I was that I started up the program to get my initial bearings. I was so glad I did! It takes you through each section with ease and in language that's easy to understand. Not only do you learn each step, but you learn different routes in the program to achieve the same goals. It's all about tailoring the experience to fit your own needs.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-size: large;">The tutorial explains how each level works from draft, to folders, text files and research files. I can even store the photos that inspire my characters so I can pull them up while writing the scenes. How cool is that? I found out that I can create multiple levels for each project (chapters and scenes for example) or just keep it straight forward like having each folder/chapter one separate poem. By setting it up that way, I can be sure each poem starts on it's own page like a chapter would.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">My favorite part so far is the cork board view. With my vampire poetry project, I have all the poems/folders laid out on "index" cards. I can then write a short synopsis on each card so I'll be reminded what is covered in that poem without having to open the folder to read it.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-size: large;">The best part? I can shuffle every card in whatever order I want! No more cut, past and then delete like when I worked with just Microsoft Word. If I don't like the order, I can just move the cards around and then flip back to the document view and see all the poems laid out with page breaks. This helps me to visualize what the ebook will look like once it's all finalized. I haven't got to the compiling part yet where I convert all of my "chapters" into an ebook, so I'll leave that discussion for next time.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-size: large;">I'm at the point where I have my cover, nearly all the poems in the order I want them in, my copyright page, dedication and acknowledgement page, table of contents with links to find each poem within the document and my "about the author" section. I've even made separate folders for Kindle, Smashwords and Createspace copyright pages. You see, when it comes to the compiling phase, I only have to choose the appropriate folders/chapters to combine into the final product.</span></i><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pYvgZHr-9xk/Ujk2ZgNw3JI/AAAAAAAACgc/G77P60VXkVA/s1600/Scrivener-logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pYvgZHr-9xk/Ujk2ZgNw3JI/AAAAAAAACgc/G77P60VXkVA/s320/Scrivener-logo.png" height="168" width="400" /></span></i></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-size: large;">So far, so good! Next is to compile everything and make the different formats needed for <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/">Smashwords</a> and Kindle. This is the key reason I purchased this program so it would be easier to format all the different files for each publishing route. Unfortunately, I had a bit of trouble with compiling into different formats. I'm not sure if I wasn't following directions properly but the files just wouldn't convert. Of course I got fabulous .doc files. Both Smashwords and Amazon require this file type so I'm not flipping out yet. LOL!</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-size: large;">Instead of fretting over my issues with this phase, I found another program to help me out. In Word, I saved my .doc file as a PDF. Using this format in <a href="http://calibre-ebook.com/download">Calibre</a>, I converted it to all ebook formats I'd need for uploading to All Romance ebooks, Omnilit and for sale on my own website eventually. Calibre is a free program that helps with ebook file conversion and organization of your library. It's fun! More about that in future posts.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #d5a6bd; font-size: large;">UPDATE: Since the time of the original post, I've discovered that the PDF created in Word doesn't always convert in Calibre to nice clean ebooks. It's changed spacing of paragraphs, font sizes and overall hasn't been reliable. I found Draft 2 Digital on the recommendation of another author and haven't looked back since! </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #d5a6bd; font-size: large;">With Draft 2 Digital I can create a beautiful epub file which DOES convert well with Calibre. More on THAT experience in a future post. Stay tuned!</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-size: large;">Have you used Scrivener or another program like it? Let me know what you think. I'd love to hear from you.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-size: large;">Until next week!</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">~Tammy</span></i><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">Learn More About Tammy</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Tammy Dennings Maggy is a best selling, multi-published poet and erotic romance author with Siren and Sassy Vixen Publishing. Her writing explores many facets of romance from ultimate betrayal to finding your soul mate. Her poetry serves as a companion to her novels and has inspired entire series all on their own. Tammy and her alter egos Lia Michaels and Stephanie Ryan make up the core authors at Sassy Vixen Publishing and together they've created the shared world series Temptations Resort. Look for the first books in that series to come out later this year.</i><i><br /></i></span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Now happily married to her own Muse and soul mate, she continues to live her dream and act as secretary to all her characters demanding to have their stories told.</span></i><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">Check out:</span></h3>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Tammy's <a href="http://authortammydenningsmaggy.com/">Website</a></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Tammy's <a href="http://tammydenningsmaggy.blogspot.com/">Blog</a></span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Tammy's Books on <a href="http://www.bookstrand.com/tammy-dennings-maggy">Bookstrand</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tammy-Dennings-Maggy/e/B005VLQLPG/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1">Amazon</a>, <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/tammy-dennings-maggy?store=allproducts&keyword=tammy+dennings+maggy">Barnes and Noble</a>, <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/dochappycamper">Smashwords</a>, and<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/tammy-dennings-maggy/id495110661?mt=11"> iTunes</a></i><i><a href="http://www.sassyvixenpublishing.com/">Sassy Vixen Publishing</a></i></span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Friend Tammy on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dochappycamper">Facebook</a></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Like Tammy's <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Author.TammyDenningsMaggy">Facebook Author Page</a></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Friend Tammy on <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5222022.Tammy_Dennings_Maggy">Goodreads</a></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Friend Tammy on <a href="http://pinterest.com/dochappycamper/">Pinterest</a></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Follow Tammy on <a href="https://twitter.com/dochappycamper">Twitter</a></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Find Tammy's Videos on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/dochappycamper1/videos?flow=grid&view=0">Youtube</a></span></i><br />
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Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-15106851161267852672015-01-05T17:36:00.000-08:002015-01-05T17:36:14.145-08:00The #FatChick Gets Real and Removes Her Rose Colored Glasses #MyWANA #IGotThis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Happy New Year and Brightest Blessings for all!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Like many of you, I spent the last days of 2014 evaluating all facets of my life. I didn't like what turned up. The promises and resolutions I made for myself, my health and career have fallen short.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Let me introduce myself to those of you visiting for the first time. Hello, my name is Tammy Dennings Maggy. I'm a 48-year old Fat Chick, veterinarian, ordained minister, multi-published author, poet, and married to the most amazing man in this and any lifetime. I'm a diabetic on a diuretic for my high blood pressure. I have hot flashes, back pain, "tight" with Aunt Flo, and on a first name basis with each of the Seven Witches of Menopause and all of their relatives.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I'm all of those things and can't enjoy the good stuff because I'm miserable in my own body. I'm considered morbidly obese by doctors. Others would try to sugar coat it by calling me "curvy", "more to love", or a fabulous BBW (big beautiful woman).</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I'm here to tell you to join me and take off the rose colored glasses. I did. I don't like what I see. I can't walk through the mall without having to sit down because my back hurts more than I'll admit. I'm winded walking up one flight of stairs. I can't get up and down from the floor without grabbing on to a counter to pull myself up. These things are not cute and more to love. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Being obese is not healthy and to me it's not beautiful to suffer through tasks I need to do each and every day. Now before you start yelling at me that I have to first love myself and see how beautiful I am, let me explain to you it's BECAUSE I LOVE MYSELF that I have to make some serious life changes yet again.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>No longer will I accept my obesity as a part of my life. It's KILLING ME. It hurts to move, to breathe, to enjoy the things I used to enjoy when I was younger and yet here I sit once again. At my largest I was over 350 pounds. I sure as hell don't want to go back there again but if I don't get this under control, I'll be looking at 300 pounds again before the end of 2015. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I can't do that. Not again. I can't do that to myself nor to my husband. He loves me unconditionally but if I don't step up, I may leave him a widower. That's not something you do to someone you love and least of all not your soul mate.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>You may very well be one of those women who accept your body at your current size. I'm not telling you to do anything differently. I don't accept this shell I'm trapped in. I'll always have the curves but right now they're not curves but rolls and globs. In my eyes, I'm not plus sized or a BBW—I'm fat and unhealthy and need to lose another 100 to 125 pounds to be able to call myself a sexy curvy girl again.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>As always, this is my journey to get healthy and enjoy the life with which the Goddess has blessed me. I'm looking forward to each new day celebrating the success of my writing/publishing career, my new role as a relief veterinarian, and living life to the fullest.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I GOT THIS!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-45721588408518309612015-01-02T00:00:00.000-08:002015-01-04T19:24:41.607-08:00#WWoW! @dochappycamper Discusses How to Share Your Facebook Posts With Your Fans and Followers #MyWANA #ASMSG<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to <span style="color: magenta;">Tammy's Tidbit's</span> here at <span style="color: magenta;">Not Enough Time in the Day.</span> I hope all is going well with everyone and their journey through the world of publishing. New Year's Day 2015 celebration around here is extra special since the collection of stories I'd been working on for six months finally went live. Whew! </span></i></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>With that under my belt I can concentrate a bit more on sharing more helpful hints here with everyone. This week I'd like to talk a bit about how to get around Facebook's algorithm that determines who will see your posts on your wall and fan pages. As you all have heard by now, Facebook is once again changing the way we get to see posts in our news feeds. They've listened to what the users stated they want and don't want to see on their walls.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Unfortunately, that means even less people will see our posts on our pages. Facebook will be cracking down on posts that look too much like advertising. It's important to have a presence there, but you should try to be social and interact more with your followers. Yes you want to share your book links and let your fans know your new one is ready for them, but now you'll have to figure out more creative ways to do it and not come off like a BUY ME NOW commercial.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I know some of you have no idea what I'm talking about so let me back track just a bit.</i></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">If you have a author/fan page you've noticed that only a small percentage of your fans (those who've liked your page) actually see your posts. Why? Because those are the ones who actively engage with you and your posts. They like it, make little comments on the majority of them or even just a smiley emoticon. These are the people Facebook and their computers feel are important and want to be updated about you and your page. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">You can get more views for your posts by encouraging your fans and friends to make comments and commenting on the posts yourself. One way to get your post in front of your current fans and friends is to boost it. For only $5, up to 3500 people can see your post. Of course this depends on your current fan base and friend count, but it is an investment that can really pay off. Some of these people may not have realized they weren't seeing your posts. If they just click the like button, Facebook will register that as an <span style="color: magenta;">ENGAGEMENT</span> and these folks will be on the list to see your next posts. The more they like and leave even a short comment, the higher up on the list they go.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Sure, these little boosts may not lead to any sales of your books, but it gets your name out there and in front of the people who WANT to see your posts. These are the people who WILL buy your books if they know about them. It's why many of them liked your fan page to begin with—to get news of your events and new releases.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Another thing that's really helped me to get my posts in front of more people who are NOT my fans/friends yet is FREE. In two groups I'm in, we do weekly post shares. Each of us creates a post/status update on our wall or fan page, then we share the URL of the post in our group thread. Each person participating in the thread will then click on the URL, like the post and leave a comment. We also share these posts on our own walls and pages to our fan base. These additional shares make the original posts more engaging and Facebook keeps the lists growing.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Go ahead and give both methods a try. Use them in combination with each other to get more reach. Either way you do it means you get your name and your work in front of more people and in front of those who wish to see it. Isn't that what social media is all about?</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">For more information on how to get around Facebook's algorithm, please check out this fabulous blog article by Elyse Salpeter: <a href="http://elysesalpeter.wordpress.com/2014/04/06/facebook-getting-around-the-darn-algorithm/">Facebook – Getting Around the Darn Algorithm…</a></span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Before I go, I'd like to address another issue with the new Facebook advertising rules that are rolling out this month. You may have seen several posts from authors planning on deleting their pages and just stick with their private profiles.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>While this may seem like the best answer, it's not. Profiles have a friend limit of 5k. Those pages allow you to have more than that following your updates. If you let them follow your profile, you set yourself up for anyone to have access to photos you post there. This is one way those Facebook hackers have stolen pictures and set up new accounts pretending to be others.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Facebook isn't going to suddenly present you a bill if you create posts that are too much like advertising. They may delete the post or the link associated with it. Instead of posting a link in the status, why not put it in the comments? It's still there, but it's encouraging readers to check out the comments and maybe even talk with you there. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>While it's true your ultimate goal is to garner more sales for your books, isn't it worth more if you "meet" people and get to know them as people first? These acquaintances could very well turn into fans for life and in turn will happily help you spread the word about your work.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Go on. Give it a try and have fun on your pages with those who visit. What have you got to lose?</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Until next time,</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">~Tammy</span></i></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">Learn More About Tammy</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Tammy Dennings Maggy is a best selling, multi-published poet and erotic romance author with Siren and Sassy Vixen Publishing. Her writing explores many facets of romance from ultimate betrayal to finding your soul mate. Her poetry serves as a companion to her novels and has inspired entire series all on their own. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Tammy and her alter egos Lia Michaels, Stephanie Ryan and Tawny Savage make up the core authors at Sassy Vixen Publishing. Together they've created the shared world series Temptations Resort. Look for the first books in that series to come out later this year.</i><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Now happily married to her own Muse and soul mate, she continues to live her dream and act as secretary to all her characters demanding to have their stories told.</span></i></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><br /></span></h3>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">Check out:</span></h3>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Tammy's <a href="http://authortammydenningsmaggy.com/">Website</a></span></i></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Tammy's <a href="http://tammydenningsmaggy.blogspot.com/">Blog</a></span></i></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Tammy's Books on <a href="http://www.bookstrand.com/tammy-dennings-maggy">Bookstrand</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tammy-Dennings-Maggy/e/B005VLQLPG/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1">Amazon</a>, <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/tammy-dennings-maggy?store=allproducts&keyword=tammy+dennings+maggy">Barnes and Noble</a>, <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/dochappycamper">Smashwords</a>, and<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/tammy-dennings-maggy/id495110661?mt=11"> iTunes</a> </span></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.sassyvixenpublishing.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Sassy Vixen Publishing</span></a></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Friend Tammy on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dochappycamper">Facebook</a></span></i></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Like Tammy's <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Author.TammyDenningsMaggy">Facebook Author Page</a></span></i></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Friend Tammy on <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5222022.Tammy_Dennings_Maggy">Goodreads</a></span></i></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Friend Tammy on <a href="http://pinterest.com/dochappycamper/">Pinterest</a></span></i></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Follow Tammy on <a href="https://twitter.com/dochappycamper">Twitter</a></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Find Tammy's Videos on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/dochappycamper1/videos?flow=grid&view=0">Youtube</a></span></i></div>
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Tammy Dennings Maggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17551291117492287824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337691639538493289.post-65993503545602755222014-12-18T20:01:00.000-08:002014-12-18T20:01:32.921-08:00#WWoW!: @dochappycamper Revisits How to Get the Most Out of Author Support Groups and #Tweet Teams #reciprocation #MyWANA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to this week's edition of <b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Tammy's Tidbits</span></b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">. </span>This is a revamping of a blog post I did for Writer's Words of Wisdom. The information still holds true...with a few updates. The goal of this post is to share what has worked and what hasn't worked well for me during my journey to becoming a multi-published author. </span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">As authors our journey stories vary as do our experiences, but that's what makes each of us unique. What works for one, may not work for another but by sharing what we've learned, we help others determine their own course. It's a win-win situation for all involved!</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">This week I'd like to talk a bit about author support groups. There are many out there. Some are geared more toward specific genres and heat levels, while others welcome everyone and their work. Some focus more on specific aspects of the business such as <span style="color: #c27ba0;">Marketing for Romance Writers</span>. Some focus on building your brand and connections such as <span style="color: #c27ba0;">MyWANA</span> (We Are Not Alone) and to a lesser extent <span style="color: #c27ba0;">tweet teams</span>.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">No matter the group they all have one thing in common: rules for participation. These are the guidelines for all members to follow if they wish to participate in the group and be supported by the other members. They have rules for what can and cannot be posted in the groups and whether promotions are allowed at all. If the group is focused on marketing for example, they may only wish to talk about ideas and "how to" market your work, not receive nonstop <span style="color: magenta;">BUY ME NOW</span> spam. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">If you join this type of group, and you use programs such as Hootsuite and TweetDeck to set up your posts in advance, save yourself a migraine and make sure you don't put the "no promo" group links in your set up. It's bad enough you broke the rules by posting the promotions, but you make it a thousand times worse if you blindly set up your autoshares. You give the impression to the other group members that you're rude and obnoxious. If you can't take the time to respect the guidelines, why should they bother to click on your links?</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">One set of rules I'd like to focus on in particular are those concerning participation on tweet teams and the blog sharing site <span style="color: #c27ba0;">Triberr</span>. When you join these groups you are expected to share ALL participating members posts whether it's tweets or blogs. This means you are NOT to pick and choose which posts you want to share and which you'll ignore because you or your followers don't like the subject material.</span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i><i>Unless the groups are set up to allow selective sharing when you participate, you can't do it. Not only is it rude, it's unfair that you expect your posts to be shared by all and you get to be exempt. These support/share teams are set up so all participants get their posts shared across the board and put in front of more potential readers/fans. If you break that chain, you not only screw your team members, you get labeled as an author behaving badly.</i></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">You know you don't want to be labeled <span style="color: magenta;">AABB </span>(another author behaving badly). We've talked about it many times before. You are in this business to build bridges, not burn them down. If you don't agree with the rules of a group, don't join it. Plain and simple. If you find you can't share posts for all members because you are personally offended by the subject matter, then quietly leave the group. You don't need to make a horrible scene as you leave. You don't have to explain yourself other than to say you don't feel you're a good fit. Leave it at that and keep on friendly terms with them. You never know when those connections will come in handy later.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">There are so many groups and there isn't any one group that fits everyone. You should scout them out and see what is the best fit for you and your work. If you don't like the confines of the rules one group has in place, don't join. You won't be able to get them to change the rules to fit you. That's not the way it works, so buck up buttercup and either follow the rules or find another group.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">To sum it up: participation in author support groups, tweet teams and sites such as <span style="color: #c27ba0;">Triberr </span>is not a one way street. If you're not prepared to <span style="color: magenta;">RECIPROCATE</span>, you need to <span style="color: magenta;">VACATE </span>your spot to someone who will.</span></i><br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-size: large;"><b><i>Now on to those who are in charge of the groups—The Admins</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>These people are there to HELP the members use the group effectively and maintain order. They're there to enforce the rules and guidelines and make sure all members get the most out of what the group has to offer. What these people cannot do is tell you how you conduct yourself outside of the confines of the group. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>If some nonmember or former member of the group happens to be using the group hashtag, there is NOTHING any admin can do about it. There is no copyright on hashtags and there isn't any reason to get all worked up about it. In the grand scheme of things, it doesn't mean squat. So don't go running to the Admins crying you retweeted someone who isn't in the group. It doesn't matter!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The Admins are your guides and shouldn't have to be your babysitters. You are all adults and are fully capable of following the rules of the group. If you can't do that, expect to be booted out. Don't go crying to everyone and their brother that you were wrongly deleted. If you truly followed all the rules and you feel you were kicked out because the Admins had it out for you, then you are better off without those people in your life. Move on and let it go!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>If you happen to have the thankless job of being an Admin, I recommend you invest in the value sized bottles of Ibuprofen and Tylenol. For the really bad days, tequila works well! LOL! </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Seriously, as an Admin you will have to deal with more than your fair share of divas (of both sexes). You don't have to be bullied. If these people disrupt the group, delete them. Your responsibility is to the group as a whole, not to specific individuals. With that being said, admins need to make sure the diva they have to deal with isn't the one looking back at them in the mirror.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Recently I've been on the receiving end of a couple of divas on power trips. Some of them happen to be admins of a few of the author support groups I choose to be a part of at this time. Unfortunately, that may change. I don't like the recent chain of events. There is no reason for one group to dictate to it's members they can't participate anywhere else because "it weakens the original group." There have been threats to some members that if they didn't stop participating in the smaller, highly motivated groups, they would be demoted or even booted out of the larger one. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><i>I. Kid. You. Not.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I stopped participating in the larger group because I was sick and tired of not having my posts shared because I write erotica and erotic romance. I got tired of seeing those group members labeling their books as erotica or romance and they're NOTHING like either. These authors wanted the perks and the exposure that went with the labels but they would be damned if they would share REAL erotica. Heaven help you if your promo photo showed some side boob! Don't even get me started on one author friend being told she should be thankful a group "allowed" her erotica to be posted there. It's bullshit and we don't have to take it anymore.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I left to join like minded authors also sick and tired of no reciprocation. We had a great run for awhile until members of the original group were allowed into our little one. Now we are facing the same issues as the other...no reciprocation of the hot and steamy stuff. Top that off with chastising posts from new admins telling us we need to use the other group and not do duplicate things.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Uhhhh...correct me if I'm wrong here but in order to have duplicity, you have to have the same people posting the same links and ALL RECIPROCATING in both groups. Right?</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Yeah, that silence you hear is exactly what I got when I questioned the posts telling me I had to go back to the "original" group. Can you guess what my answer was?</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Bottom line is I have to do what's best for me, my brand and that of my other three pen names. The same goes for you. Pick the people and groups who will join you on your journey and not hinder it.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i><i>Until next time,</i></span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">~Tammy</span></i><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">Learn More About Tammy</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i></i><br /></span><div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Tammy Dennings Maggy is a best selling, multi-published poet and erotic romance author with Siren and Sassy Vixen Publishing. Her writing explores many facets of romance from ultimate betrayal to finding your soul mate. Her poetry serves as a companion to her novels and has inspired entire series all on their own. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Tammy and her alter egos Lia Michaels, Tawny Savage, and Stephanie Ryan make up the core authors at Sassy Vixen Publishing and together they've created the shared world series Temptations Resort. Look for the first books in that series to come out next year.</i><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Now happily married to her own Muse and soul mate, she continues to live her dream and act as secretary to all her characters demanding to have their stories told.</span></i></div>
</div>
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<h3>
<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><br /></span></h3>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">Check out:</span></h3>
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<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Tammy's <a href="http://authortammydenningsmaggy.com/">Website</a></span></i></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Tammy's <a href="http://tammydenningsmaggy.blogspot.com/">Blog</a></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Tammy's Books on <a href="http://www.bookstrand.com/tammy-dennings-maggy">Bookstrand</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tammy-Dennings-Maggy/e/B005VLQLPG/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1">Amazon</a>, <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/tammy-dennings-maggy?store=allproducts&keyword=tammy+dennings+maggy">Barnes and Noble</a>, <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/dochappycamper">Smashwords</a>, and<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/tammy-dennings-maggy/id495110661?mt=11"> iTunes</a> </span></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.sassyvixenpublishing.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Sassy Vixen Publishing</span></a></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Friend Tammy on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dochappycamper">Facebook</a></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Like Tammy's <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Author.TammyDenningsMaggy">Facebook Author Page</a></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Friend Tammy on <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5222022.Tammy_Dennings_Maggy">Goodreads</a></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Friend Tammy on <a href="http://pinterest.com/dochappycamper/">Pinterest</a></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Follow Tammy on <a href="https://twitter.com/dochappycamper">Twitter</a></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Find Tammy's Videos on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/dochappycamper1/videos?flow=grid&view=0">Youtube</a></span></i></div>
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