My top picks for 2011: posts and pals

In reviewing my top three blog articles I wrote in 2011 I thought it funny the ones people navigated toward, and still do. Then I realized one is comic, one is heart-touching, and one is edgy.

And I guess it represents what we are drawn to when we connect to one another. Things that make us laugh and things that make us feel – sentimental or dark. And here there are, in case you missed them.

#1 I Like Big Butts: Real not Fake
In my 9 year old’s eyes, anything with “butts” in it is tops for him.

#2 Pumpkin Pie Forever
My son also adores my home made from fresh pumpkins pumpkin pie. Good kid.

#3 Saving the World: One Book at a Time
My son has so many stacks of books he once spread his hands out at them and noted “So many books, Mom! And not enough time to read them all.”

Looking at my blog stats also got me thinking about my own top 10 list.

And I don’t mean the 10 pounds on top of me from the holidays.
Or even the 10 tops I can’t fit into from the 10 pounds I gained.
Or the 10 new gray hairs on top of my head.

No. I was thinking that I wouldn’t even be writing this blog – or even getting published – if it weren’t for my Top 10 people and resources this year.

I’m sharing them here with you. They may become part of your top list too. These are in no particular order. They have been amazing  in different ways including providing valued  advice on the writing craft and business, as well as peer and promotional support. They are people you will want to check out! There are so many more I could add, but perhaps that’s for another post.

1. Kathryn Craft
Amazing developmental editor, writing teacher, and cheerleader. She’s now embarking on a new path publication with her recent signing with agent Katie Shea of the Donald Maass Agency.

2. Philly Liars Club
Especially members: Jonathan Maberry, Marie Lamba, Gregory Frost, Keith Strunk, Don Lafferty, and Kelly Simmons.
Aspiring and published authors can’t get any better support than from this bunch of super-power authors who are very accessible. Their advice on the craft and business of writing in free forums, classes, and workshops is priceless. Tons of advice on their website. Check em’ out!

3. Stacy Green
We started our path to social media and publication the same time and have leaned on one another when it was much needed. She’s also got a great blog. You won’t want to miss her Thriller montauk-monster.com/pharmacy/viagra Thursday posts! For those of us that just can’t help reading about serial killers.

4. Janice Gable Bashman
A supportive writing peer who extends a hand with great advice. Being a fiction and non-fiction author as well as an editor, she’s got the chops to help you out. She also runs a fantastic blog showcasing tips and advice from authors.

5. The Author Chronicles
I am privileged to know many of these writers through writer meet ups and classes. These 5 writers launched their blog this year that is chock full of info on the publishing industry, writing resources and tips, and just darn inspiration. You will want to follow them!

6. Marketing Tips for Authors
Author and social media guru Tony Eldridge runs this blog and it’s a must to subscribe to. A valuable library for any writer on networking, social media, marketing, and more. Tony was nice enough to invite me on and you can catch my article here on Utilizing a Career in Marketing and Business to Get a Book to Market.

7. Author Jody Hedlund
Jody is a historical Christian writer, which doesn’t match what I write but her posts are a wealth of information for writers of all genres. She is an author who “does it right” in her marketing and social media, plus she’s just super nice. Mimic what she does. This is one time I say, drinking from the Kool Aid is a good thing.

8. Lucas Mangum
Lucas is an author and friend who is a champion at rounding up writers for his Awesome Reading Fests that he coordinates several times a year. He believes in getting writers in person to share across genres. It’s at many of these events I’ve met online friends who have become in-person friends too. We need more people like Lucas. If you’re in the Philly suburbs attend one! The Author Chronicles posted on a recent event.

9.Joe Konrath
Want an honest take on the publishing industry off the cuff and the numbers and stats to go with it? Then mark Joe Konrath’s blog to read. He bucked the publishing system and won.

10. Nathan Bransford
Agent turned author. Follow his journey to publication. Archive dating back a few years and his essentials on publication.

Okay, a few mentions here because I said I wouldn’t go past 10!

Agent Rachel Gardner: Get advice on your all aspects of writing and getting published from the agent’s mouth

Kristen Lamb: Author and comedian on the writing craft and business advice

The Kill Zone: Get insider perspectives daily from the hottest thriller and mystery writers.

Happy New Year!