For a long time, I've been wanting to get back to writing. My college undergraduate degree is in journalism, though I don't tend to use those reporting skills as much anymore.
About a month ago, Examiner.com posted a request for freelance writers for their Hartford edition, and I signed on to be the "Hartford Cat Care Examiner." I'm thrilled to have an excuse to choose my topics, take photos, research, interview, and write to my heart's content. The fee per article is, well, not enough to keep my own cats supplied with canned food for a few days, but I am hoping that the new publishing credits will lead to other writing opportunities. The library journal articles I used to write are probably not appealing to anyone outside the field.
One of my passions is education. I feel as if I'll never have enough time in one life to learn all the things I want to explore, and I love sharing what I learn with others who are interested. I love when they teach me. Writing for the Examiner allows me to interview people to learn more, and gives me a format where I can share that information in an easily accessible way. And you all know that one of my biggest passions is humane education.
Working at a shelter for over three years has given me more exposure to cat health and behavior issues than you can possibly imagine. My own crew has trained me quite well, but the shelter cats take up the slack. I've met lots of amazing people that work in rescue, and people that work on a legislative level for animal protections, and sometimes I get so fired up thinking about it all I can't sleep. So I am hoping that as I write about all different feline subjects, that readers will find helpful insights, and share their knowledge with me too.
Here is my first article: http://www.examiner.com/cat-care-in-hartford/connecticut-votes-for-animals-promotes-animal-friendly-legislation-hartford
My next article, coming shortly, will be more generic, about cats and vacation plans. Please consider subscribing to my page, and share with your cat-loving friends. Thank you!
This means we get even less playtime and attention. But maybe I can convince her to write a review of cat treats...I'd be happy to serve as the taste-tester!
P.S. I apologize for taking so long to reply to emails and comments. Life has been a bit crazy-stressful with some job issues and a weird schedule, but I don't ever want to appear rude or seem like I'm ignoring anyone!
Congratulations on your new writing post! That is a huge accomplishment that you have gained that, in this depression. Well, we all knew writing doesn't pay anything anyway. We do it for the love! Kudos to you for such a great scoop!
Posted by: Leah | May 26, 2011 at 03:54 PM
That's fabulous!! Our vets and nurses write a piece for the Sunday paper every week and I always read them. I am sure the few days of cat food you buy will appease??!! Rainy looks lovely!!
Posted by: 2paw | May 26, 2011 at 07:48 PM
Congrats on the new opportunity!
Posted by: Meredith | May 26, 2011 at 09:31 PM
Congrats on the new writing job!
Posted by: Sarah | May 27, 2011 at 08:52 AM
Congratulations! It's wonderful that you can write about something so close to your heart. Plus you are getting your name out there.
Posted by: Kristen | May 31, 2011 at 06:53 AM
Congratulations! : )
Posted by: Bubblesknits | June 01, 2011 at 10:09 PM
Congratulations! You never know where this will lead - could be more writing opportunities, could be making a difference in the life of a cat. Either way, it's all good.
Posted by: Susan | June 02, 2011 at 10:07 AM