Week 10 Update ~ Getting Closer!

This week has been, well, nothing special. I had a speech contest on Saturday, so I spent some time during the week preparing. I did a little rewrite and some practicing. I did well, came in second in the International Speech and third place in the Table Topics. For those of you that don’t know what I’m talking about, I’m a member of two Toastmasters Clubs. Toastmasters helps with speaking in front of others, with speaking extemporaneously (great for interviews or on-the-spot questions), giving presentations, and leadership. I’ve learned a lot, and Toastmasters (especially my club) has been helpful with getting me to actually put my writing into books. It helped me get back in front of a microphone (when I was singing ~ not anymore). I actually put together and presented a workshop titled “Smiling From the Inside Out”. I’ve come a long way. Two books published, with more on the way (children’s and adults), I’ve decided to rewrite and present my workshop probably in the next year. But writing and my art come first, then workshops and public speaking. Yes, I actually found that I like public speaking, just not contests (anymore). At first, the contest helped me to become a better speaker, presenter, and even writer. But the stress that went with it for me, well, isn’t worth it with my health right now. So only one more contest and then I’m done, at least for a year or two. I’ll be behind the scenes helping to organize them instead.

On another note, I’m also going to start learning marketing so I can handle my own book tours and signings. Maybe learn some travel too. My sister is taking a travel agent course and I’ve been thinking about doing it as well (I’ve always wanted to travel). Possibly some extra income. I’ve not completely decided just yet, so let’s not focus on that for the moment. If you have ideas regarding the marketing or travel, please let me know. I’m open to suggestions and opinions.

Now for my update on my goals. I’ve done well and kept them all, including my drawings. I love the feeling and seeing the outcome when I finish a sketch, even if it’s just a quick doodle drawing, regardless if its good or not that great, I still love it.

I know I talked mostly about Toastmasters today, but it is a part of me. Those in the club are like family (some are even closer). If you’d like to visit my club, Harpeth View Toastmasters, we meet every Saturday morning at 7:30 a.m. CT. We are a hybrid club so you can visit in person if you are in the Nashville, TN area or on zoom.

Our website is: https://hvtm.toastmastersclubs.org

Till next week, I wish you lots of Hugs, Love, Laughter, and Blessings! 🌻