From the Desk of

A PNN Portfolio?

Vbright — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 07:24:57 GMT

A PNN Portfolio?

Like many of you who write on PNN, I am a Freelance Writer. I literally have my writing scanning all four corners of the globe (the world IS flat, isn't it?) Admittedly, my "pleasure" writing has taken a hit lately, but that happens when you are scanning the hot spots for gigs.

I've been reading a lot about having a writers portfolio. Some say it is good to have one and others say it is not. I have a grip of writing at Squidoo, but I think PNN gives a more open look at my writing style and topic variety.

I am at my best when I can write in a casual, friendly style, but I also am capable of very professional script when necessary. Most of the articles I have written professionally have been on drug rehab, cash advances and legal/finding a lawyer information.

Years ago, before the internet (GASP! Yes, I am that old), I had a few thing published in print. Mainly poetry but also a couple of articles. With the birth of the internet, I took my writing online and have been freelance writing online since. For the past 3 years, I have mainly done article marketing and SEO work.

Please note; I am a writer, not a trained monkey. It infuriates me to see ads for writers that say something to the effect of: "I need 20 500 word articles written. Must have perfect English and grammar skills and be able to meet a strict deadline. I pay $2 for each article." Excuse me? This is what I do for a living. My almost 3 year old Grand daughter may do it for you at that price, but I won't! That may sound harsh, but I am a writer. My writing articles and ebooks and what-not is what puts food on my table.

I have covered many topics over the years, some of which I enjoyed and some not but they were all done professionally. My little articles here on PNN give a scope of some of my interests both personal and professional as well as a glimpse into my life. So, for now, PNN is my own little writer's portfolio. It has a little bit of everything, and then some!

I Won Too!

Vbright — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 12:07:29 GMT

Oct 9, 2009-I hear the Twilight zone theme

Vbright — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 18:20:24 GMT

You hear it? Clear as day I hear the twilight zone theme. Let me try to wrap this day up with as much intelligence as possible, given the events of the day;

Barack Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. I'll say that again. Barack Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. What for, you may ask? So do millions of other Americans. No one really knows why, but he did. Perhaps the Swedes felt sorry for him losing his hometown bid for the Olympics. I have it on good information that Obama is a shoo-in for NASCAR and the Americas cup too. Well, at least he is starting to get tough. He sanctioned Iran on Pistascios and Persian rugs. Go get 'em tiger!

While much of the Country was still reeling from this wonderous news, it was learned that on the cover of the new Playboy magazine was none other than...wait for it...Marge Simpson! Yes indeedy. Now, no one can say that mature cartoon females aren't just as sexy as the young ones. Yessiree Bob, that Marge has been turning heads for some time now! Or, something like that.

As if all of that weren't enough, NASA apparently bombed the moon, twice. Of course the media had to try to create this huge scare about it. Silly, silly media. Good thing they are so honest and forthright, innit? So that was Oct 9, 2009. All I could say yesterday was "Now, I've seen it all". (intro music: do do do do do do do do)

Caleb-Year 12

Vbright — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 19:15:50 GMT

Today, August 9, 2009, my Caleb would have been 12 years old. By now, most of you have read the story on this page about my Son's death and once again it is that time of year. I've done away with the little rituals I used to do, such as lighting a candle in front of his picture. I can't bring myself to go to the cemetary which I'm sure many of you find appalling, but I just can't. I used to lay at his grave and talk to him for a very long time and I'm not sure what happened but now I just can't go. So, I think of him. I remember his small little quirks like how he used to just stare into people's eyes when they held him. It was a deep and understanding stare. I remember how just before he died, he opened his eyes and looked into mine for a good 30 seconds before he drew his last shallow breath.

Today, I am trying to get myself to do some work although I know that is probably futile. What am I to do? Write to my editors and say "Look, my baby died 12 years ago today, so I just don't want to work!" Hmmm, no, I can't see myself doing that.

I had my Grand children over very recently. I know when they get on my nerves, as children do, sometimes, I only have to think of Caleb and my frustrations subside just a bit. Today, Caleb would be becoming a young man and I wonder what he would look like, what his personality would be and so much more.

Happy Birthday, Angel Man. We'll see each other again some day.

I'm running in circles as fast as I can!

Vbright — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 07:48:56 GMT

I'm tired. I guess that is it in a nutshell. I (thankfully) have been picking up clients so my workload has increased. I also have had my grandchildren here, a LOT lately. (They are 2 and 1) I've been extremely busy coaching people at Squidoo and I have been involved in another project called Rocket Moms at Squidoo.

Now, don't get me wrong...I love making money and I love writing and creating at Squidoo and I absolutely adore my grand children but lately it seems like I need to take a nap before I go to sleep for the night!

I cannot figure out if it's my wacky system which cannot seem to decide if it wants to menopause or simply menoplay. It could be the weather; I hate hot.

Writing is my job and my passion. That is why I am here at PNN too. PNN offers a different venue than does Squidoo. Writing is theraputic, as I am sure most of you already know. It allows expression that encourages feedback which is what everyone needs.

So, everyday I begin running in circles. Check my Squidoo lenses, check the Rocket Mom and WiWon blogs, check the lenses of those whom I am coaching, get my writing assignments done, try to work on a Squidoo lens or two and also spend time with the grand kids. I do not have writer's block. I have writer's procrastination! Many ideas, just not a lot of energy to get anything done.

Is there anyone else who has experienced this? When I do sleep, it is for maybe 3 hours and I am up again working on something. Several hours later, nap, then again. I really am running in circles just as fast as I can!

The Dog Days of Summer

Vbright — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 03:38:58 GMT

Well, I think they are here. The heat is certainly been raising tempers if nothing else. Crime is up (Suns out-guns out) and for some reason this summer just seems longer than normal. For me, personally, I've hit a rough spot. I lost one of my clients and have been 6 weeks trying to replace that income. I think I am about there, but it has been a long haul.

Those with smaller children are anxious for school to start. I remember those days well! The only "child" I have left at home is 16 so I am more looking forward to her moving out than going back to school (haha).

I can only hope that calmer heads prevail and that the rest of the summer will go smoothly for everyone. If you are a writer, the good news is that there are a LOT of jobs out there. Unfortunately, you still have to sift through them to get through those who only offer pennies. Keep cool, keep calm and keep the faith!

Ho Hum-Hum Drum

Vbright — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 08:29:09 GMT

I seem to have lost my muse of late. Oh, she was just here the other day and we were having a grand old time. We were working on my writer's blog and also planning some new Squidoo lenses. Well, to make a short story long; one huge argument with my daughter and one trip to the doctor later and I find myself staring at a blank screen. Nothing comes to mind. Nada. Zilch. I have millions of ideas, just nothing to back them up.

If only I could find Madge (my muse). For that matter, if Paha Ska would come visit me (he is a sort of indian guide). But, nope...here I sit like a kid with a box of broken crayons.

If you happen to see Madge would you kindly ask her to contact me? You'll know her when you see her. She is a sweet looking woman with sort of wild red hair. She is a lot of fun to be around, and I miss her!

Want to hire a writer, or a monkey?

Vbright — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 22:49:27 GMT

Are you hiring a writer, or a monkey?

Ok, so I've been a freelance writer a few years and even I have done work for less than 'standard' wages but I am sickened by what some employers are calling "PAY" for rewrites and original work.

Writing takes time, effort and intelligence. Granted, rewrites are much easier but they still take time. I can type very quickly. I type over 100 words per minute. That's once I know what it is I am going to write. I can normally write a 500 word original article in 15-20 minutes. Why on earth would I or any other self respecting writer work for less than minimum wage? Yet, on so many of these sites I see people offering .50 for 500 words. Get real! Are they joking? That comes up to a grand total of $1.50 an hour. Yeah, I'll do that when Manny Ramirez starts earning $25 a game. Employers on several sites that I frequent are offering meaningless pay for "Native English Writers". As far as I'm concerned, if you can't even bring yourself to pay a penny a word, then you are not looking for a writer, you are looking for a monkey who can type.

Writing is a talent and it is also what some people do to get the bills paid. It is time people started taking writers seriously and stopped offering this nonsense pay for quality work! Writers unite! Get paid at least fair wages for the work that you do.

Road Trip!

Vbright — Sun, 03 May 2009 09:04:52 GMT

It's that time of year again when, in this part of the country at least, the ice clears off the highways and I can once again pack my bags and yell "Road Trip!" I absolutely adore road trips and I guess I am somewhat of a road warrior.

My normal trek is through Nebraska and up into the Black Hills of South Dakota, which is one of my favorite places in the world. After a long Hiatis I am back on PNN and would like to center my articles for a while on road trips. What to pack, what to do, and perhaps even show you around Nebraska and South Dakota a bit.

My travel partner is usually Rose; my best friend of 30 years. We both love the Plains of Nebraska and the beauty of the Black Hills as well as work together on a charity we have where we collect items and take them up to the people of Pine Ridge Reservation. I have come to love and respect the Lakota people and I absolutely love being able to help. As my Grandmother used to say; "Don't thank me...Thank God I was able to".

The 4 Lakota Values

Vbright — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 03:13:53 GMT

For the most part, outside of PNN, I write about Native Americans. Primarily the Art, Culture and Tradition of the Lakota Sioux. I would like to share some of it with you. Understanding the Values, and ways of the Native American, helps us to understand a little more why Government Programs do not work for Native American's and expecially those that live on the reservations.

There are Four Traditional Values for The Lakota Sioux Tribe. They are;

Wacantognaka - Generosity

Wotitakuye - Kinship

Wacintaka - Fortitude

Woksape - Wisdom

GenerosityThere is an old Lakota Saying; "What you give away, you keep; What you keep, you lose" It is common for the Lakota to have "giveaways" on special or important occasions. They lay their items out for any one in the community to take.

Kinship Incorporates the tiyospaye, the extended family. You belong to a tiyospaye through birth, marriage or adoption. Your family even extends out to your band and the whole Lakota nation. Whenever you travel somewhere, you can expect to be welcomed and supported as if you were in your own immediate family. The Lakota have adopted many white men and women into their tiyospaye.

Fortitude Means having confidence. Facing danger with strength and courage. It is the ability to overcome problems. According to the Tradition information at the Akta Museum; One of the first lessons a Lakota child learned in the old days was self-control and self-restraint in the presence of parents or adults. Mastery and abilities came from games and creative play. Someone more skilled than oneself was viewed as a role model, not as a competitor. Striving was for achieving a personal goal, not for being superior to one's opponent. Success was a possession of the many, not of the few.

Wisdom Elders are to be revered for their knowledge in the Lakota Culture. Wisdom has to do with understanding and living the spiritual values and beliefs upon which one's culture is founded and being able to share these with others. Wisdom means being able to incorporate the sacred way of life into one's own life and to respect and honor all life.

No Mother should have to bury a child

Vbright — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 05:28:42 GMT

About 355 days a year, I am an optimistic, happy, witty person who likes to find the humor in everything, or most everything. That changes from August 9-20 every year.

On Aug 9, 1997, I gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. I instantly called him my "Angel Man." How ironic...three days later he was diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrom and basically given the death sentence. I had him taken off of life support, and through God's Grace (forgive me anyone who is not a Christian, but this is MY way of dealing with it) He pinked up, and instead of dying instantly, he lived a few more days. I was able to bring him home, and hold and love him. In those days, I said hello, and goodbye. (Not to mention the fact I had just buried my Grandmother on Aug 5 of that year!)

Caleb died in my arms at 10:20 PM on August 20th. Yes, time eases the pain, for the most part, but here 11 years later, 2 days before the anniversary of his death, I find myself still crying. I cried today because I read a story about a lost little whale in Australia that is probably going to die because he cannot eat, is exhausted, and trying to suckle from a yacht. Yesterday, I cried because my little grand daughter felt bad and cried about something (trivial though it was) I cried this morning because I can't find my muse to continue my Native American Articles I have been writing.

I hate crying. Always have. I'm the happy one, the witty one, the one everyone else comes to for uplifting. I have 3 grown children, still living, 5 step kids and a host of step and natural grandkids whom I adore. Not enough lately, I'm afraid. Not even my new little Grandson can cheer me.

It goes against nature, it just isn't right. I repeat...NO Mother should have to bury her child.

Thanks for reading...I just needed to let go of some of this

Native American Art

Vbright — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 03:22:30 GMT

I have been writing a series of Articles on Native American Art and Culture, which I find wonderful and fascinating. I am wondering, however, why now, more than ever I feel the need to share the stories. I have been thinking a lot about my dear Friend Paha Ska. He passed away in 2005, and for some reason, he has just been on my mind. Maybe it is HIS story I need to get out. It is so odd how much he has been on my mind. He was a great Artist and Story Teller and a gentle, witty man.

I'm going to add his picture here, so you all can meet Paha Ska. He inspires me to tell the world about the beauty and tradition of Native American Art. He was primarily a hide painter, but I am fortunate to own some of the last "prints" he made and signed before his final journey.

By the way, if you go to my "paper" you can find links to my published articles. You'll see there are more and more about American Indians. I wonder, sometimes, as I sit here hours upon hours writing...are there others who get these persistant "nudges" to write about a particular topic? I guess what I am saying is, could Paha Ska be trying to tell me something? (Now, don't anyone go rushing to call the men in the white suits quite yet.) I honestly feel compelled to share the stories of the Lakota People, and all Native American's. Your thoughts and insights are welcome here.

The Summer Olympics--eh

Vbright — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 05:01:21 GMT

Is there anyone else who just doesn't care? I have never been a huge fan of the Olympics, but this year, I have even less reason to follow it. Nothing against the Athletes, I know they work extremely hard to make it to the Olympics. It's just the entire principle this year.

China, being unfavored because of their treatment of Tibet, had the nerve to tell President Bush to basically "Mind his own business" while the President was on his way out to SEE the opening Ceremonies. In essence, what China is saying to the world is: "Come to China, spend your money. If you can't come here, watch on T.V. In the mean time, we wll oppress the Tibetans, use the newfound fame to further shame other Countries, and basically tell eveyone to kiss their patoots.

Be my guest. I'm not watching. I'll avoid buying anything from the companies that sponsor the Olympics, in fact, this article is probably the only mention of the Olympics anyone will get from me.

Peace in the Valley

Vbright — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 10:03:16 GMT

I know I'm getting older, because it just amazes me how little it takes to get young people angry. Really! Young people can't let others live their lives, no, they have to have something to say about it. My kids would call it "Being all up in someone's business."

My 21 Year old daughter is pretty calm. Not much upsets her, but my 15 year old is another story. Sometimes just the slightest things upset her. Now, You can't say this to a 15 year old, but after you have buried two children, gone through a nasty divorce, overcome family member's alcohol issues, and much more... Someone using your cell phone just isn't a big deal. After that, there isn't much that is a big deal.

You are not going to stop people from being who they are. The only one you can control the behavior of, is yourself. Getting angry isn't going to accomplish anything. There is a LOT wrong with the world. You would have to be pretty simple minded not to figure that out. You have to LOOK for the good, and there IS good in the world too.

You have the choice of being calm and rational, or being angry and losing control. My Grandmother told me something one time that really stuck with me: He who can anger you, can control you. We just don't give Grandma's enough credit!

Oh, go google yourself!

Vbright — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 05:26:36 GMT

Before I became serious about writing, I would have never considered going to google and typing in my name. Now, it is something I do at least weekly. It's interesting to note that on a few of the sites I belong to, folks were not aware that so much of their information was available through search engines. Yep, nothing is sacred anymore! If you do anything online, from posting to a forum, to having a blog, "they" find it, catagorize it, label it and display it.

Who are "They?" Google, Yahoo, MSN, and all other search engines. Now, for me, it is a good thing to have many listings under my name. I am a writer, that means I'm getting noticed. Some people are just surprised that they can be "googled." Don't believe me? Go to google.com and put your name in the search box. Viola, I bet you are there!

If you WANT to be noticed by the search engines, keywords (until Web 2.0 is complete) are extremely important. Not only do you want them in your tags (that you add at the bottom of your article) but you want them IN the context of your story. Without using certain words in every sentence, try to sneak them in as often as you can. Google, and the other "crawlers" like this! Become search engine friendly!

To summarize, make Google (and MSN, Yahoo) your friends. Have you seen the ads that say "Your ex just googled you, what will they find?" There is SO much truth to that ad. Happy Googling!