By

Michele L. Tune

Hope you’ve been having a fantabulous weekend! Here’s a few fun facts you may not know about me. Enjoy!

Thanks to Steve, over at My Wife QUIT Her Job, I’ve decided to share 25 random things you don’t know about me. (I can’t forget Angie from Freedom Freelance. She recently tagged me for a meme requesting I share 7 things about myself–hopefully she’ll think 25 is even better!)

1. I know you don’t know this: My Mom named me after Michelle Lee (from Knots Landing)–only she chose Michele with one “L” and spelled my middle name differently. Can you guess how she spelled “Lee” in my name?
2. I lived in California when I was a kid, from the time I was 2 until I was 4 (although I have no memories of it). That’s a shame, considering I supposedly got to go to the beach and play in the ocean all the time.
3. My favorite place to go (according to my parents) was Der Wienersnitchel — a cool place that sold hot dogs. That’s hilarious, ’cause now I wouldn’t eat a hot dog for a million dollars! Oh, and Mom and Dad still laugh at how I tried to pronounce the name. Every time I said it, they knew where I wanted to go though.
4. When I was in the 2nd grade, my teacher told me I’d be a writer when I grew up. When I asked her why I wrote so much, she replied: “It’s because you have so much to say you can’t say it all, you have to write a bunch of it down.” She was right; I’m a writer–although I wonder some days if I’ve really grown up.
5. I attended both public and private schools growing up. Both experiences were totally different. While I missed my friends from public school, and had some issues with my experiences at the academy, I do have warm memories I’ll always cherish. (And, yes, I had to wear a uniform: tan skirt, white oxford shirt, navy blue vest, panty hose, closed shoes [meaning no open toes/heels]–go ahead and laugh. I’ll wait.)
6. Spelling and English were my two favorite subjects in school. I always made 100% on my spelling tests and my teachers were always pleased with my enthusiasm–and talent–for writing essays and doing book reports. While other kids cringed, I jumped for joy.
7. P.E. was my least-favorite part of school. Well, that and the bullies!
8. I was a Brownie and a Girl Scout. I never became a Cadette, though, because I left public school and went to private (see above).
9. My parents paid for professional swimming lessons–I still can’t swim and don’t like to be in the water! (Sorry Mom and Dad.)
10. I almost flunked Home Ec. Why? ‘Cause I loved eating the cookie dough.
11. My grandma always wore shawls in cool weather–with panty hose and white sandals. I wanted to be just like her, so I insisted my parents buy me the same exact shawls and sandals–I was her shadow and I looked the part, too!
12. When I was in 5th grade, my teacher asked us to write an essay starting with: If I were a turkey on Thanksgiving Day... He gave me an A+ and proudly put it on the bulletin board out in the hallway for everyone to enjoy–I’ll never forget that achievement! However, I’m convinced someone morphed my words and ideas into the movie Babe. Seriously!
13. Judy Blume was one of my favorite authors. I read Blubber, Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret, and so many others. I loved her! I dreamed of having my name on the cover of books someday, just like her–I’m on my way! Wahoo!
14. Some shows I loved were: Charlotte’s Web, Reading Rainbow, The Patty Duke Show, Mork & Mindy, Different Strokes, Laverne & Shirley, I Love Lucy, The Brady Bunch (I still remember the entire theme song!), The Courtship of Eddie’s Father, The A-Team (gotta love Mr. T!), Silver Spoons (Rick Schroeder, anyone?)–ah, those were the days, eh?!
15. As a kid, I went to see Tojo Yamamoto. Can any of you tell me who he was–without a Google search?
16. Growing up, I was one of the few children in a neighborhood made up mostly of elderly folks. I had lots of grandmas and grandpas and I loved every minute of it. They’d spoil me with special baskets on the holidays filled with freshly-baked cookies, old-fashioned candies (that they remembered and loved from their youth) and other goodies. I’ll never forget those baskets–or those special people who loved me like I was their own granddaughter. It’s a huge reason I’ve always loved making baskets filled with homemade goodies and taking them to nursing homes, shut-ins, the sick, or any elderly person I adopt.
17. I sing. Not all of you know that I sing. I have since I was a little girl. Surprise: I’m working on another website and will eventually have both audio and video of me singing up there. It might be a little while, as I’m doing it in my spare time. I’ll let ya know when it’s up.
18. I have the uncanny ability to turn (most) extremely stressful situations into bearable moments by finding humor or the silver lining right away. Not everyone appreciates my enthusiasm, but I try…
19. When I was obese (near 300 pounds), I went to a doctor and he accused me of going to the all-you-can-eat buffet every single day (like I could afford that?!) and he ticked me off–I lost over 100 pounds. Anger is a good thing when focused in the right direction.
20. I’m blessed with empathy. I not only have compassion for people going through crisis or any trouble or pain, I am overwhelmed with empathetic feelings and always do my best to comfort the person/people any way I can. I don’t take this gift lightly, and I feel it truly is that: a gift.
21. I fantasize about sitting on a porch/deck in Hawaii and writing as the sweet scent of Plumeria wafts with a gentle breeze for my enjoyment. Oh, and I’m sipping herbal tea. And since I’m dreaming here, I’m eating a ginormous piece of German chocolate cake–which just happens to be my favorite.
22. My favorite color is pink. Always has been. I love pink clothes, pink flowers, pink office supplies…
23. Another fantasy I have is to win a shopping spree in an office supply store. Oh, my! I know, I’m a sad, odd gal. I’d be a happy odd gal if that happened, though!
24. At this point, I really don’t want to travel the world or anything, but if I ever get to New York, the first place I want to visit is the library. Yes, I’m serious. When I was in college, my Speech Instructor told me she was astounded when she walked in the door. She said as far as you can see bookshelves spiral up, up, up. That is so intriguing to me! (What, I’m a writerly kind of gal.)
25. Something I’ve always wanted (since I was a young girl)… a classic Mustang: candy apple red, black leather interior, with a black convertible top. My favorite styles are the Mustang GT Coupe and the Mustang GT convertible. I don’t like the Shelby–or the late 60/70 body styles. Only the 64 1/2 and 65-66 body styles appeal to me.

Whew! I never thought I’d think up 25 things about myself–this is hard! So, there you have it. I’m assuming most of you didn’t know these 25 things about me.

What about you? Have you done this meme? Do you always share stuff like this with your readers? Share your thoughts and 25 things links with us in the comments!

Be sure to subscribe to Writing the Cyber Highway’s Feed or by email, so you won’t miss upcoming posts and updates. Look for news from my own writing life, as well as interviews with amazing and inspiring folks. I’ll even be sharing the links to my mom’s  new website and blog!

By

Michele L. Tune

Rebecca Laffar-Smith just shared her long road to writing with us. Since I read her story, I’ve been reflecting on my own. I’ve mentioned before I need to stop pulling the reins on myself so I can go to the next level in my freelance writing business. So, why do I feel I’m still holding myself back? Why do I feel I could have already acccomplished so much more? Am I just too hard on myself? Do I expect too much of myself? Or, am I truly – without even realizing it – allowing my past to keep me from stepping into a future I desire with all my heart? Am I locking myself out of my own future?

Just as Rebecca shared that she drifted to and away from her writing dreams, my own writing has drifted to and fro throughout the years. I’ve always been a writer – even if I was just jotting down what happened on any given day in my journal, or pouring my heart onto a loose piece of paper in the form of poetry. I’m a writer. It’s who I’ve been since I was a little girl; it’s who I’ll always be.

Maybe you’re feeling the same way I am. Maybe, just maybe, you even feel like I’ve written this very post just for you. And, you might be right. (I’m a firm believer that stuff always happens for a reason.) I’m inspired to write this post, to share my heart, my fears, my struggles with you because I want anyone who comes to read this blog to know they aren’t alone.

Some things I’ve struggled with as a freelance writer and blogger are:

• maintaining a lot of confidence
• selling my writing and blogging services
• overcoming my hermit tendencies
• finding the courage to approach the publications/people that intimidate me
• overwhelming myself with too many resolutions

You might find it odd that I feel this way - or that I’d spill the beans about it for a gazillion eyes to read. I have wondered why I feel this way as I contemplate my future with words. My conclusion? It’s a lot harder than I thought it would be to move forward in life after escaping domestic violence. Bruises from the physical abuse fade in no time, but the bruises from the verbal abuse are etched deep in the heart, mind, and soul of the victim.

Off the topic of writing:

If you’re prone to saying things you don’t mean in the heat of the moment, find a way to change yourself. Your hurtful words can’t be erased. They’ll stick with that person forever. Think about that.

So, what am I doing to stop reflecting on the past so my writing can take me where I want to go?

Here’s a few things I’ve been doing:

• take risks like hitting send for a query to that high-paying market
• polishing my queries so they portray me in a positive light
• trying to find ways to come out of my hermit shell
• focusing on short-term goals (you’ll notice I didn’t share a resolutions post this year)
• unlocking the door to my destiny

I’m not sure where this writing road will take me. What I do know is that the journey will only be all it was meant to be if I’m forging ahead in confidence, and not glancing over my shoulder allowing my past to direct my footsteps…

At the end of Rebecca’s guest post, she asked us what our long road to writing was. Today I’d love to know where your writing road is going to take you. Will you travel it with your eyes on the future? Have you already been doing that? Or, like me, have you struggled with your past tugging at you all along the way? Share your writing journey in the comments!

Be sure to subscribe to Writing the Cyber Highway’s Feed or by email, so you won’t miss upcoming posts and updates. Look for news from my own writing life, as well as interviews with amazing and inspiring folks. I’ll even be sharing the links to my mom’s new website and blog!

Photo Credit:http://www.sxc.hu

By

Michele L. Tune

She’s on fire. Her words are inspiring, motivating, true, and resonate with my soul – and many others, I know. She’s accomplished more in a few months than most writers and bloggers accomplish in years. Her enthusiasm, talent, and zest for life are intoxicating and contagious. Who am I talking about? Okay, I’ll tell you. I could definitely go on and on, but I’ll resist. Her name is Kimberlee Ferrell. (You may remember her guest post.)She’s only been freelancing for a few months (although she’s been writing since she was a toddler) and she’s already achieving tons of writing and blogging success. She’s even written a fabulous e-book sharing how she’s achieving her success, and how you can do the same. (I’ve personally read the e-book and highly recommend it–it will help you blaze a trail all along the cyber highway!)

On to the interview…

Writing the Cyber Highway: You haven’t been freelancing for very long. Why don’t you share what you feel has brought you so much success in such a short time?

Kimberlee: My friends, both writers and non-writers! I have spent a lot of time cultivating relationships with all kinds of people on the internet. They are wonderful supporters who have pushed me on, even when I was unsure of myself. I could celebrate my successes with them, and brainstorm with them through challenges. I could not have done it without them!

CH: Even though you’re new to the freelance business, you have learned and excelled quickly. I’m learning from you and I’ve been freelancing since 2005! Convince everyone that even though you’re new you have important information to share in this e-book you’re offering.

Kimberlee: My e-book is not just for writers, although they will benefit greatly from its advice. Being sincere is something you learn over the course of your whole life. Before becoming a freelance writer, I was a waitress at a variety of restaurants. While waitresses are trained to be pleasant in the face of the unfriendliest people, I developed a different trait. I learned to draw happiness, warmth and sincerity from the bottom of my heart, so I could be kind and gracious to everyone.

This ability to be sincere and true to yourself applies beautifully to online businesses. You have time to think over your responses to others, and craft the best possible reply. You aren’t prone to slip up and say something you might regret. If you can be sincere in your desire to build others up, you and your friends will succeed.

CH: What prompted you to just “go for it” and write your e-book: Sincere Online Community Building?

Kimberlee: Again, it was due to the power of the online community. I have seen so many incredible success stories, through the unique characteristics of social media. I even have my own, as the community pulled together and helped get my car windshield replaced. I have even heard of a little girl getting a kidney donor! As a thank you to my online community, I decided to pull together all I had learned about being a genuine presence online, and share it with you in my e-book.

CH: You have such a fresh and inspiring confidence. Where does this come from? What drives you to be the excellent writer and blogger you are?

Kimberlee: I have the mindset of “failure is not an option!” People are so prone to giving up when things get tough. I have been there myself. It is a depressing place that I refuse to go back to again. I was laid off this fall, and I decided to take control of my own destiny and do what I love: freelance writing. I have my family to support, and I cannot fail them! I push myself each day to do the best I can for myself, my family and my community.

CH: In a recent post sharing your 2009 goals, you mentioned you plan on writing a new e-book each month. That is amazing! I’m sure you can do it (just because I’ve seen what you’ve already accomplished). Do you mind letting us know how you plan to make this goal come to fruition? Are you going to write each night after your daughters are asleep, or will you devote the weekends to e-book writing?

Kimberlee: I plan on giving my e-books my full attention, after my writing projects are done for the day. I am seeking input from my community, on what their goals are and what kind of information they might need to fulfill them. Then I will craft each e-book to help inspire, inform, and delight my community on the way to their success.

CH: Any advice you’d like to offer other new freelancers?

Kimberlee: Never give up! There is always something great on the horizon, even if you just can’t see it yet. Learn as much as you can, then jump in headfirst. You may make mistakes, but you will succeed in time. Keep writing, even when you don’t feel like it. The words will come, as long as you are attempting to write them down. Support each other, and you will reap the benefits. Give to others, and you will receive the benefits.

Kimberlee Ferrell is a freelance writer and blogger for Freedom Writing. She is also a mother of two girls living in small town Iowa. She also enjoys a strong (and large!) cup of coffee and walnut brownies.

Click here to visit Kimberlee Ferrell’s website!

Thank you so much, Kimberlee, for spending some time inspiring us here at Writing the Cyber Highway and letting us get to know you better!

NEW UPDATE: The drawing is over. See the winners here.

IMPORTANT UPDATE!

Kimberlee has decided to give away FOUR COPIES of her awesome e-book! Click here for an opportunity to win.

Note from Writing the Cyber Highway hostess (that’s me!) :

I’d like to add fess up that I experienced a little burnout in 2008. Not that I’d ever consider giving up writing, but I could feel my writing fire flickering… When I met Kim, I could see myself. She’s so much like me when I first started writing and blogging. She’s that fresh voice, ready to take the writing world by storm with energy that lasts through the night – night after night. I’d love to thank her for reminding me of that. Kimberlee has inspired me to dig deeper, keep at it, and make 2009 my best writing and blogging year ever! Thank you, Kimberlee, and may 2009 exceed all your dreams – you certainly deserve all the goodness that comes your way!

Be sure to subscribe to Writing the Cyber Highway’s Feed or by email, so you won’t miss upcoming posts and updates. Look for news from my own writing life, as well as interviews with other amazing and inspiring folks. I’ll even be sharing the links to my mom’s new website and blog!