Writing a novel as a full-time writer and part-time blogger

I'm letting you in on a little secret: There's a book on me. And hopefully sooner rather than later, you'll be able to read it, rate it, and review it. (...But more on that at a later date, I promise!)

For now, I'm figuring out how to get this story on paper while also writing full-time and blogging part-time. I spend my 8-to-5 writing recruiting and enrollment materials for colleges across the country - I love my job and count myself as one of the lucky ones who found a paying, full-time, "big girl" job putting words together. Plus, since 2009 I've been blogging right here. It's a whole different type of writing that lets me share my passion for pretty spaces, cheap decorating, and do-it-yourself projects.

But my real love of writing lies in noveling. (Is that a word? It should be. I'm using it as one.)

Q&A; Quickie | How do you keep your blog active while working a full-time day job?

Question: 

How do you keep your blog active during the day? I read that you have a full-time job, but I often see posts, Facebook statuses, and tweets that publish during the day. How do you manage? (asked by Ellie M. from Colorado)

Answer:

Yes, I do have a full-time, big girl job as a web content writer. Even though I work a day shift (one that actually begins and ends earlier than a 9to5) I can't just save all my blogging for the evening hours. I'm staring at a computer screen all day at work.

Starting a Blog

In the past few months, I've had several emails/comments/facebook messages asking me about how to start a blog.  I figured there were probably a few of you out there wondering the same thing... so rather than address those questions individually, I'm going to try to sum up my best advice here in one blog post.