Blessings

I’ve found in my reading that some of the more well known “power bloggers” who have a large audience just write empty words. While they may get a good response and get a book deal, their words are simply to please others, or to reach an audience that will attract more hits for them.

With my humble (read: boring) little blog, it was started to keep our family & friends who did not live nearby updated on our daughter who was going through a lot of medical stuff. (see words like alot & stuff do not make you a power blogger!!!). I also did it as an outlet for ME. I’ve always enjoyed writing.

Now I’ve come to a place where I just write whatever is on my heart. I write for the Lord and I write for my family.

While I’d love to get paid and be more known out in the blogosphere, I just refuse to trade who I am for empty words that draw an audience. Paychecks would be very nice but I will always stay authentic to whom I am and what I believe. I did check out the clubmom thing sheerly out of curiosity, but some of clubmom’s forums do not line up with my belief system. While I wouldn’t rule out blogging for them based on that fact alone, I can wholeheartedly say I will never “tone down” my personal voice in order to get a paycheck.

I see Spunky’s comment above…she is one of my FAVORIITE bloggers. I obviously don’t know her personally but her words seem to authentically reflect who she is in everyday life.

I’ve just recently found your blog Heather. Beautifully done.

I don’t even consider myself a writer. I actually began my blog not to influence anyone. I wrote (and still write) about the things that I want my children to know. That’s the test of what I post about. If what I write helps my children learn more about me or the world as I see it then it’s bloggable. Pure and simple test. The death of homeschool mom Missey Gray provided me with additonal motivation to continue in my initial purpose.

I know that’s not the goal for everyone. And it shouldn’t be. But I got tired of saying someday I’m gonna write down these things. Blogging came along and the timing was right for me. For some reason when I sit at the computer my mind thinks more clearly. My children will have many thoughts should the Lord decide to take me home.

As for the rules. I think they are the same as any form of written publication. You are allowed to copy for critical review and to provide excerpts.

As far as pay. I am getting paid some for what I write. I refuse much more than I take on. I don’t know what the going rates are for writing. Perhaps I’ll find out I’m working for too little. But some of the publications that have taken my writing are not for profit groups. I’m glad to provide some encouragement and support. If God uses my writing for that purpose the gratification of knowing that I have helped others is worth something to me. It may not pay many bills but that’s OK. I’ve been on the needy end of encouragement before and a word fitly spoken to me was refreshing. If I provide that to someone else thank God.

I am a low paying publisher, but my ad revenue is also low and that’s what I use to pay writers…just like any other magazine, I have a budget to keep to.

Yet, I believe, like you said, that you have the choice to choose who you will or will not write for and what pay you will or will not accept.

I know several writers in my online magazine have come back to tell me that regional print publishers have contacted them about reprint rights for articles that have appeared on my website. I find that a great compliment and great to know paying reprints can up a writer’s salary!

Sometimes I guess, it stings to hear writers put down low paying publications and then turn around and see those same writers give free articles to publications they “believe” in. I know it’s a choice.

As far as books go, I also have a vague recollection of hearing a speaker at a writing conference say that you can quote up to 500 words from a book if you give proper credit to the source and you’re not selling the information.

I know blurbs from my book reviews are quoted here and there, and no one ever asks if they can quote me. I assume this is standard. I actually appreciate the blurb if I get the proper credit and I’m not misquoted!

Does anyone have the real scoop? As you see, I’m vague about this, certainly lacking in expertise. I just know there are writers who say their blog posts and online articles are showing up on other people’s sites with no credit mentioned at all. Their words have been swiped completely.

What is the Copyscape logo I see on some people’s blogs? Is that some kind of service?

Our house gets going at 6:30 am, so after that, my other full-time job kicks in. I also know my readers across the ocean like to read blogs before they go to bed. (I always find that interesting … as I’m starting my day, someone in Japan or Australia is ending hers.)

You are right on the edge of what is happening with women writers and bloggers. The leading edge. I really enjoy reading your posts, you’re one of my favorites. I look forward to seeing how your writing evolves. You have been blessed with a wonderful talent.