Building tension and creating an atmosphere of terror can be challenging for writers. Here are some genre-inclusive tips to help scare the pants of your audience.
It finally happened. My 5 quart stock pot had to be retired. I replaced it with a 5 Quart Stainless Steel Non-Stick Stockpot by EPPMO and this is my review of its pros and cons.
Which training pants works best for the most reasonable price. Let's compare the two big name brands: Huggies and Pampers. These products appear similar, but are not equal when put to the test.
A fellow author asked how I get a team of beta readers to provide feedback on my books before I publish them. Here's my reply ...
Not sure how to get useful feedback from your beta readers? Here's a quick and easy checklist to make sure your beta readers give the most valuable information they can.
A boy forces a kiss on a class mate for a dare ... men catcall their female co-workers ... customers pat their serves on the behind as she passes by. It's all just good fun. They're compliments and women should just accept them. Right? ... No.
You need a professional-looking author photo that will grace every book you write for years, not to mention social media and your author site. But, how do you get one without dropping serious cash on a professional photographer? No worries. I got you covered.
If you want to be with a powerful woman, there's a few things you should know about what to expect and what she needs from you to build the bond needed for her to invest her love and time in you.
Why are people losing their minds over the "Dating my Daughter" memes and what they really teach us.
Before you send your child to someone else's house for a visit or play date, secure your peace of mind by making sure you talk to the adults about how they deal with having guns in their home. It could save a life.
Author and GoodReads member, Christopher Taylor asked: " What advice do you give a would-be short story writer for crafting their tale?" Here are my Top 5 Tips ...
Recently, a fellow author asked me about dealing with the dreaded “bad review.” Many authors live in fear of the day they receive a bad review of their work. Here's how to cope when that day comes.
The biggest complaint I hear from authors is that almost no one leaves a review for their books. Here are the most common reasons why and it isn't for the faint of heart.
What is it about an independent and ambitious woman that makes most men squirm? I have a few thoughts based on personal experience ...
Father's Day is coming up and I want to share something important I learned from my dad.
A Reader asked: ""If you could go back to 7th grade, knowing what you know now about writing, what do you wish someone would have told you?" Here are 7 things I wish I knew earlier ...
More and more conversations are cropping up about whether an author should include a trigger warning on their book. It's time to discuss what a trigger warning actually is and if you should include one in your book description or blurb.
There's some discussion about trigger warnings on books. Should you include them for your book? The answer is "Maybe". Let's take a look at what kind of content may require trigger warnings.
Writing is hard! Writing blurbs for our book babies is even harder, but it doesn't have to be. Here's a simple guide to help you break it down.
Newsletters are an important way to stay in touch with your readers, but what are we supposed to put in them? Here's a handy list of ideas to keep your newsletter fresh and interesting.
Are your social media posts chasing away readers and clients? Then it's time to reevaluate what you're putting out into the world.
What is the most important thing an independent author needs to do to gain respect as a writer?
Writing as a career choice takes talent, persistence, and professionalism. How do you know if it's right for you? What can you do if it isn't?
Sometimes even the "simplest" self-care is draining and feels like a chore. Here's some suggestions to help make it easier.
This fantastic sweet curry recipe works perfectly for many types of meat, including chicken, goat, lamb, and rabbit.
Romance is a huge category. With so many sub-genres, it is collectively the largest selling genre in fiction with Erotica a close second.
While there are occasional frustrations, Internet and the progressing technology that comes with its existence has given me so many important things to be grateful for.
Looking for a sunny place to vacation? How about the Gran Ventana Beach Resort in the Dominican Republic? Here's a photo tour from my experience to help you decide if this is the place for you.
It's important for the Admin of a Facebook Page to keep track of Followers. So, where the blazes did Facebook move that list to!?!?! Here's the answer ...
As much as we love Facebook, we sometimes walk away feeling like we're in an unhealthy relationship with it. Here's some easy tips on how to keep Facebook a positive experience ...
Whether you're concerned about allergies or you'd like to include more than just candy to treat bags, this list of candy alternatives will help you participate in the Teal Pumpkin Project.
When you're feeling sick to your stomach, the whole world feels off-kilter. Here are 3 handy treatments you probably already have in your home to help you feel better.
Thinking of buying a Delaney Sofa Sleeper? Before you drop big bucks on that bit of furniture, here's our experience with it.
Several factors water retention, including dehydration, histamine, hormones, medication and diet. Fortunately, minor changes in diet can help restore the body's natural process.
Whether you’re a fan, friend, or family member, there are several cost-free things you can do to support the writer in your life and it will still mean a lot to them (and their success).
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a hormone imbalance which causes the ovaries to produce cysts that inhibit ovulation. All pre-menopausal women, regardless of age or ethnic background, are at risk.
You owe money to people. It's only a big deal if you avoid it or let it overwhelm you. You've probably already done both with negative results, so let's do something new to turn things around, okay?
A petition is a proposal for change. How you present your case will go a long way in getting the outcome you want.
This is an excerpt from my book, "Notes to My Younger Self: A Guide to Personal Happiness" which details how to start loving and respecting yourself more.
The name of your business is important. Here are some tips to help you avoid choosing a name that confuses or turns off your potential customers.
I'm seeing a trend in eBooks that I don't like: hyperlinks that takes the reader away from the book to an online article. It's not okay and here's why ...
Whether you're writing a novel, screenplay or short story, it is essential to nail down the basic elements before you start. Here is some information and free resources to help you.
Writing out the plot to your story in advance can be a great time saver. But, what is the best method? Here is a breakdown of the 3 styles of Story Plotting.
While some women have a "Cat Lady" period during their life, it doesn't stop them from having a fulfilling family life ... But, some habits are hard to break.
Here are five ways your family can give to your community without straining your budget or busy schedules.
A quick and inexpensive gluten-free breakfast, perfect on chilly mornings.
Store-bought microwave isn't as healthy as it sounds, but stove-top popcorn can be dangerous for kids to do on their own. Here's a simple microwave popcorn method your kids can make anytime .
We all have someone in our lives that "quits" work, school, hobbies and just about everything else that gives them a hard time. Here are some suggestions on what we can do to help them stick with it.
Thinking of using flip diapers? This review examines the practicality, affordability, and whether or not cloth diapers are suitable for your family.
What's up with the new Infinicel™ technology of Always Infinity® pads? Let's find out ...
Whether you've moved or are unhappy with your current doctor, you must disenroll from your current doctor with the Ministry of Health before a new doctor can accept you as a patient. Here's how to do it.
Sounds silly, but I have to say, "Food is expensive." Most families need their groceries to last longer and if there's one thing I'm good at, it's making a little bit go a long way. Here's my tips.
We all need a little more fish in our diet. The trouble is finding something that is quick and easy to make (and clean up after). And, if you're like me, you want something that doesn't actually taste fishy. Here's the perfect recipe to fill all those wants and needs.
Popcorn is a quick and healthy snack that can be made with only a few minutes notice. Here is our family's simple recipe with some fun topping ideas for your family to enjoy!
When you want a quick and fun meal for your family or need an easy crowd-pleaser, mini-cheeseburgers can do the job!
Good gluten free treats are hard to find. This review explores various aspects of Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free Brownie Mix to discover if it's worth the cost and effort of making.
In the spring of 2012, Wendy's restaurant introduced poutine to its menu. Is it worth the hype? This review will help you decide.
What is poutine? Learn all about Canada's favourite food.
Maybe you had a dream that was very real ... , it was disturbing because there was someone in it that didn't belong. Someone so wrong that it was alarming ... You woke up feeling disturbed ... Who was that person? Why do you feel violated and unsettled? That person is a Dark Teacher and your...
The name of your business is important. Here are some tips to help you select a name that will properly represent your business to the public.
Tired of getting unwanted Facebook invitations to games and events? Want to block some rude or annoying folks? Here's how!
One of my favourite Halloween treats is Witch Finger Cookies. A simple butter cookie recipe given a ghoulish twist, this is sure to be a hit with your little goblins!
No matter what culture or religion you grew up in, chances are good that you were taught to honour your parents. This article examines what it really means to honour someone.
Picky eaters come in many guises. Some food issues that children have are easily solved while others require a little more work. Here is a quick look at some picky eating issues and simple solutions you can implement.
Tomato soup is one of my comfort foods, especially with a nice cheesy grilled sandwich. Here is my personal recipe for Creamy Tomato Soup.
It would be great to make money from clothing your child has outgrown, but where to start? Most of the options are time-consuming and can get complicated. thredUP.com helps keep things simple!
Here is a short list of Free-to-Use Translation Sites.
We argue because we have a problem that needs to be dealt with. To solve a problem, we need to have clear communication and a willingness to work things out. We also need a straight-forward technique for constructive problem-solving. Here are 8 steps to help you resolve problems without getting...
For friends and family who want to help, but don’t know what to get for parents with a baby in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit, here is a short list of things parents of preemies desperately need.
We all want to find someone to love and who will love us back unconditionally, but we worry that we don’t know “how” to achieve this stage of bliss. Relax. There is no big mystery behind finding your ideal mate. Here is how you can find your ideal mate in 3 simple steps.
As children, we were taught to avoid people who do not share our morals and values. Those people rob us of our certainty and clarity of vision. But, what if those people are family members?
A babysitter is a role model, companion, and guardian angel during their services. They raise your child in your absence. This is why it is important to find a quality babysitter and show them that you respect them.
A person will change careers several times during their life as they mature and learn more about themselves and the world around them. With so many options out there, how does a person learn about what they may like and be good at? That is where the informational interview comes in.
If you've ever had a bad dream about teeth, then you know how deeply disturbing they can be. If you've ever tried to find out what teeth represent on websites and dream interpretation books, then you know how frustrating inadequate the "commonly accepted" meaning is. Here, at last, the symbolic...
The other day, I heard my infant's bubbling chatter turn to a sharp scolding. Curious I crept to her bassinet and peeked in to see what the fuss was about. What I saw brought my own childhood memories to the surface and re-awakened the magic of my youth.
Time Out is a simple way to gently correct a child's behaviour. Here are the 8 steps to an effective Time Out which will build your child's sense of security and love for you.
One question I often receive from parents is, “How do you get children to behave so well for you?” At first, I was baffled by this question. After thinking it over for a while, I realized that I have a special technique that encourages good behaviour in children. Here it is ...
Cyber bullies come in all shapes and sizes. In the fantastical worlds of online gaming, this particular breed of bully is known as a Griefer.
Once upon a time, a troll was a big nasty monster that lurked under abridge, waiting to waylay unsuspecting travellers. Times have changed, but trolls still lurk, ready to ambush the unsuspecting internet user. Find out how to identify a troll and what you can do about it to combat these cyber...
If you find yourself with indigestion making your food "bounce" after meals, this article may help. Our bodies break down different types of food at different rates. A simple change to the order in which you eat your food may help solve your problem.
There's a lot of things new parents aren't told about child care and making the transition to solid foods is a big step that parents are left to figure out for themselves. Here's a little help ...
You wouldn't think that video games could inspire so much creativity, but these Youtube videos beg to differ. Here are my top 3 favs to amuse.
Highly addictive and stupid as hell, here are my top 3 favourite Mindless Songs of the Internet ...
Sometimes, we all need a bit of silliness to brighten our day. Here are my top 3 favourite musical remixes from movies to put a bounce in your step.
Where did our manners go? We were all taught to say "please" and "thank you" when we were growing up, but so many of us have forgotten these lessons. Here's a little reminder of When and How to say, "Thank you" ... more importantly, Why saying those two little words is so darned important.
This quick meal is simple enough that your child(ren) can help or even make on their own. Versatile and inexpensive, you can make Wiggly Noodle Stir Fry for you whole family to enjoy for under $10.
Looking for a way to turn your popcorn into a decadent dessert? This caramel sauce recipe is easy to remember and quick to make.
While parents and kids don't always see eye-to-eye on what a "healthy meal" consists of, desserts can really bring a family together. This is especially true if the dessert is quick and easy to make, like a sticky hot Banana Boat.
Need a quick recipe that children will enjoy? Nachos could be the answer you’re looking for. This Easy Cheesy Nacho recipe can be as simple or elaborate as you want to make it. Best of all, it is easily customized to your child’s skill level and palate.
It can be difficult to think of great gift ideas for new parents, and even harder to come up with something to bring a new mom in the hospital. Here are some practical, yet thoughtful suggestions.
When working with children in the kitchen, it is vital to set the kitchen rules right from the start. Here are some of the basic essential rules to help your kitchen run smoothly.
This quick and easy recipe for Cottage Pie is perfect for children to put together and can be easily tailored to your family's preferences.
What do you give when the Someone on your gift-giving list has it all? This article explores a wide array of gift ideas that is sure to touch your Someone in a way they'll truly appreciate.
Want something quick, easy and healthy? Try a smoothie!
Everyone wants to know what to look for in an ideal partner. I didn't have to look far to find the qualities I admire in a man. Let me introduce you to my cat ...
With children spending more and more time online for entertainment, it’s important to have a list of child-friendly online games. This is a review of the word game, Adlib.
There has been many debates about whether or not online petitions are valid in Canada. The short answer is: Yes. This article explains how online petitions are legal and valid.
Meals should be a time of bonding and sharing. This series is dedicated to helping parents create that reality by providing quality tips and recipes that are quick, easy and inexpensive to make with the help of their children.
Finding out you need a colonoscopy can be intimidating, however the more you know about the procedure, the less frightening it is.
Packing a healthy lunch for your child (or yourself) doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Here are some of my favourites.
Don't know what to do with those over-ripe bananas? Try this quick and easy recipe for banana bread.
The US government confirms that a zombie outbreak isn't just Hollywood chic; it's a real-life threat! Suddenly, that online course in Emergency Management doesn’t seem so frivolous ...
This is an excerpt from my book, "Notes to My Younger Self: A Guide to Personal Happiness" which deals with why we sometimes attract unsavoury people.
Just as each society has a set of acceptable behaviour, the internet also has a set of etiquette rules from cyber communication, known as netiquette. These simple rules are outlined in this article.
This is a sample chapter from my forthcoming book, "Chatspeak 4 N00bs: Online Communication for Beginners." This chapter explains the origins of Chatspeak and gives examples.
This is a sample chapter from my book, "Notes to My Younger Self: A Guide to Personal Happiness" which discusses the importance of avoiding talking negatively about people or jobs in your past for a minimum of 3 months when starting a new relationship.
This is a sample chapter from my book, "Notes to My Younger Self: A Guide to Personal Happiness" which introduces the concept behind the book and imparts encouragement.
The choice between baby pajamas with snaps or those with a zipper probably never crossed your mind, but once you know the Pros and Cons of each, your preference in jammies may surprise you.
Some gifts are invaluable to new parents whether they’ve just delivered their first or their fifth child. If you have new parents in your life, here are some invaluable gifts that you can offer them.
A foreign friend once asked me why Canadians seemed so apathetic ... Why do so few of us care that our country is sliding down a steep slope past mediocrity and into a realm of pity reserved for third world countries? Perhaps it all started in 1947 with the 5 cent war that led to our nations...
After years of being told that having a cat isn't the same as having a baby, I can finally say for certain: "Yes, it is." This article is a humorous look at the similarities between a cat and a baby.
Pampers vs. Huggies? Here, we compare the two big-name diaper brands. These products may appear similar, but how do they fare when put to the test?
Rental myths abound. This article busts some of these myths, outlines the real facts in Ontario and provides links to valuable resources for landlords and tenants in both Canada and the USA.
Whether you're a landlord or a tenant, you have specific rights and responsibilities outlined by the law of your province, territory or state. Protect yourself; know what they are.
This article lists valuable links to the Residential Tenancies Act for each province or territory in Canada and organizations that provide assistance for landlords and tenants.
Every family has a different style of canning and each holds their method sacred. When it comes to canning tomatoes, this author's family style takes things one step further than the norm for a surprisingly delicious end result.
Mom's simple no-bake cheesecake recipe is wonderfully delicious and simple enough for a child to make.
A quick and tasty pie crust recipe for gluten-free diets.
This original strawberry pie recipe by Rosa Lee is a quick and easy fix.
A healthy substitute to pancakes, wraps or sandwich bread, these gluten-free crepes are perfect for any mealtime.
This yummy Peanut Butter Cookie recipe is gluten-free and easy enough to for young children to make.
Successful people and businesses take time to develop their own brand to help fans follow and relate with them. Here's some quick tips about branding and how you can use it to your advantage.
There are good articles and then there are great articles. There are articles that get bad attention and articles that noticed for all the right reasons. Here are some tips to writing a great article that will get you noticed for the right reasons.
The method of recruitment you chose when hiring new staff is determined by the job you filling. What method is best for your needs? Read on to find out ...
Choosing a style of interview when hiring new staff is determined by the job you filling. This list will help you decide which style is best for your needs.
Hiring new staff is a decision that will impact your business for years. These handy tips outlined in 10 simple steps will help your interviewing process flow smoothly.
Hiring a new employee will impact your business for years. You want to find someone who will fit your business. Here are the top 3 criteria used to help you make the right choice.
There are some questions that should never be asked during a job interview. However, there are often legitimate reasons why an employer may need to address personal topics. This article addresses the interview no-no's and how to tactfully approach these issues if necessary.
Small businesses and non-profit organizations are always on a tight budget. This can make advertising difficult. Fortunately, there are several local resources that offer free or low cost options.
Quick and easy to make, this decadent Hawaiian Dreams recipe is a must-have for dessert lovers.
If you're looking for a faucet adapter for your dishwasher or apartment-sized washing machine, this review of the Moen brand Dishwasher Aerator may be of use for you. Item #3302-982 Model #M3715
Cocoa butter is highly recommended for the care and healing of the skin. This article explains how to use cocoa butter for skincare and gives information about benefits, storage, cost, and the author's review.
Cocoa Butter is known for its exceptional moisturizing and healing properties. This is a review for the cocoa butter sold by Canadian company, Olivier.
Over 600 million people are registered on Facebook. Unfortunately, a lot of them forget to behave in a well - social - manner. This a list of 10 bad behaviour offences often seen on Facebook.
English can be confusing sometimes. This reference for writers will look at heteronyms.
English can be confusing sometimes. This reference for writers will look at homophones.
English can be confusing sometimes. This reference for writers looks at homonyms (words that same sound and often the same spelling but different meanings).
English can be confusing sometimes. This reference for writers will look at homographs.
Some sites and publishers keep your work even after you've closed your account, because you've signed away your rights by agreeing to their Terms of Service. Learn more to protect your work.
A concise review of Parissa Body Sugar based on the author's use of the Parissa kit.
For those who are looking for a quick and reliable method for removing unwanted facial hair, this step-by-step guide is for you!
Thinking of moving to Ontario, Canada? This article contains valuable information you need to help you make an informed decision before taking that big step.
Reporters are busy, so they appreciate it when a well-written release lands on their desk. It saves them valuable time and opens the door for your release to reach the public.
Most employers prefer to check references before scheduling interviews. With glowing recommendations from your references, employers are more inclined to hire you on the spot.
The Employment History section of a résumé is the perfect place to really show a potential employer what you know and can do. Here's some tips to make your résumé shine.
Your résumé has less than 10 seconds to hit its mark and impress a potential employer. Here's how to make sure it shines.
Employers want to know your skills to help them decide if you have what it takes to do the job well, if you will fit in, and if you can make the company look good. Find out what your skills are.
Why do women flirt with you but never make the "first move"? What do you have to do to get a lady to walk over and talk to you? Here are five tips to help you get beyond flirting.
For some, shyness is a momentary inability to connect with another person. For others, shyness is a crushing weight pressing down. Fortunately, shyness can be overcome. Here are some practical exercises from personal experience that can help you reclaim your voice in the world.
Whether you're PR for a big corporation or a project co-ordinator for a small non-profit, knowing the difference between a media advisory and press release is just the first step. Knowing how to write a proper media advisory is vital to getting reporters to your events and activities.
Whether you're running PR for a big corporation or a project co-ordinator for a small non-profit, knowing how to create an effective press release is vital to getting your events and activities to the public.
In this article, we explore vital guidelines to crafting believable and relatable characters.
Tips for writing engaging narrative.
In this article, we explore the writing basics to help keep writers on track.
Sometimes, it can be hard to come up with a topic or story idea. Here are some suggestions and exercises to help writers find their inspiration.
No matter what size production or role you're in, the sign of a professional actor is how they behave on set. Learn what makes an actor a real Pro.
If you have been asked to submit a synopsis or summary, it is essential that you know exactly what’s being asked of you.
There’s often confusion about the difference between an “outline” and “summary”. If you've been asked to submit a story outline, it is essential that you know exactly what’s being asked of you.