"Required reading" for today's smart writer.

"Required reading" for today's smart writer.
Information & inspiration to hone your craft and increase your cash...Since 2009

Monday, February 11, 2013

A Valentine's Day Tribute** A Love Letter to my Readers...



Okay, so I know that some of you are not really into P.D.A. (Public displays of affection), but allow me this one indulgence. J
We typically associate Valentine’s Day with romantic lovers.

It’s a time that celebrates couples that have committed to each other through words and actions, and honors their union.
It’s a special day of Hallmark cards, red roses, sweet chocolates, and heart-felt expressions.
And it serves as a reminder that we need to not take that love for granted, if we want to keep it.
Love needs to be nurtured and acknowledged.
But, you must admit that there are many forms of love. True?

With this in mind, I thought that it would be a “sweet” idea to take a break from the usual posts here, and pay tribute to you, my dearest readers, for February 14th.

In the words of Elizabeth Barrett Browning, “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways…”


1. I love that many of you have been loyal supporters throughout the years. You’ve been with me through good times and bad, through learning curves and trial and error, through formatting issues and glitches, in sickness and in health. Like romantic love, we’ve truly “grown” together.

2. I love that you “woo” me with your comments. Blogging by nature is intended to be interactive. Don’t you just hate feeling “unheard”? Me too. Your Blog comments help me to feel “heard”. They allow me to know your thoughts, to determine the direction of future posts. They challenge my way of thinking, affirm my beliefs, and broaden my knowledge base. Like romantic love, give and take is important.

3. I love that you make time for us. There are so many other things you could be doing when you visit. So many other blogs that beckon. Some of you read me on weekends. Some of you check in late at night when the house is quiet, and you have a little alone time. Some of you never miss a week of commenting and connecting. Heck, some of you even read me at work, when you’re not even on break. LOL Don’t worry your secret is safe. Like romantic love, quality time is important.

4. I love that we encourage each other. On days when editors’ harsh words forget that there’s a human being behind that rejected submission, you keep me going. Sometimes I laugh at our lives as writers, or relate to an “inside joke” that only those of us that have chosen this path would understand. Like romantic love, support is important.

5. I love that we show respect. Even though we may not always agree, I truly appreciate that you allow me to speak my mind and be who I am. And I follow suit as well. Like romantic love, opposites often attract. :-)
 


I could go on and on here, but I fear more “mush” might only embarrass you. :-) I merely want you to know, that this Valentine’s Day, I send these words of love out into the universe, to say thank you for all you do. Each and every one of you.
I appreciate your readership, your support, your time, and your confidence. (And I should mention, your guest posts as well.)
Whether you’re a new follower, or one of my long-time regulars, I look forward to spending more time together in days to come!

Like romantic love, you’re just my type. :-)

Warmly,
Jen

Pen and Prosper

24 comments:

  1. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 11, 2013 at 7:55 AM

    P.S.

    Dear Readers,
    Please forgive the font issues. I spent over two hours trying to format this, but there were some tech problems that can't seem to be corrected. At least not at present. :-)

    Hope you enjoy the post, just the same.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, my post does every now and then, too-- "the font thing."

      Blog love back to you, Jen!

      Happy Valentine's Week!
      Kell

      Delete
    2. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 11, 2013 at 1:04 PM

      Hi Kelley,

      The "font thing" can be quite frustrating! :-) I hope to have it corrected soon. Sending a big hug your way today! Thanks for your time and comments. I value you.

      Delete
  2. Jennifer--

    This is a truly beautiful and heartfelt post. Clever too, with your apt parallels. I am honored to support and--yes--love you. All greatest wishes for Valentine's Day and way, way beyond.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 11, 2013 at 1:08 PM

      Noelle,

      Your wisdom, support and generosity of spirit continue to be a blessing. This means much from someone whom I definitely admire. :-) Thanks for everything.
      Luv right back at ya'!

      Delete
  3. Lovely and heartwarming post, Jennifer! Thank you so much. Please know that the love is returned to you. I treasure our friendship. What a blessing it is to know you. :)

    Enjoyed the parallels, and I agree, wholeheartedly. Have a wonderful week!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 11, 2013 at 1:10 PM

      Karen,

      The feeling is definitely mutual. No one could ask for a more loyal (and gracious) buddy than you. :-) Thanks, dear one.

      Delete
  4. Replies
    1. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 11, 2013 at 1:14 PM

      As you should! :-) Thanks so much, Aurora. It was so lovely to hear from you today.

      Delete
  5. That you would spend two hours on a font issue is another way you love us, Jen. I would enjoy this post any old which way. With Karen, I must say what a blessing you've been to me, too. Happy Valentine's Day. Eat lots of chocolate. We are especially able to absorb important chocolate nutrients on V/day. =0)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 11, 2013 at 1:19 PM

      Sue,

      Your comment gave me quite a chuckle. :-) I hate to present anything for "public viewing" that's not quite up to par--whether it's a typo, font issue, or inaccuracies. It's like a cook serving something up that's half baked. :-)
      "Love" is a big reason. But, part of it is my somewhat perfectionistic nature, I suppose. LOL
      Thanks dear one, for your laughter and friendship. It means much.

      Delete
  6. Aww! I love that you chose one of my favorites: Elizabeth Barrett Browning! And I LOVE that you are here with us, to give encouragement, advice and your time. Wishing you all things love!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 12, 2013 at 4:15 AM

      Yvonne,

      You're a sweetie. :-) Thanks so much for your comments and support. And congrats with your blog growth.
      U go girrll. :-)

      Delete
  7. Thanks for your post, and for bringing up this topic because it reminds me of a special Map I created to put in, and collect all kinds of info about Greeting Card Writing.....,

    (Btw. I once actually also wrote a post about how with Opening Up Greeting Cards you can create an 'Element of Surprise' for Funny Greeting Cards.)

    It also reminded me about a Funny Valentines Cartoon drawing I once made for the cover of a publication, and it makes me wonder if I can find it back somewhere, because I do believe that it would make a great Greeting Card.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 12, 2013 at 4:16 AM

      H.P.,

      Much appreciation for your input. Have a great week.

      Delete
  8. Jen,

    This was such a touching post, and we love and appreciate you right back! I certainly look forward to your inspirational posts each week, and have grown and learned so much since finding your blog.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 12, 2013 at 1:24 PM

      Thanks much, Yasmin. In the words of one of my favorite feel-good songs: "Yes, it's true. I'm so happy to be stuck with you." :-)Pen & Prosper readers rock!

      Delete
    2. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 13, 2013 at 4:58 AM

      P.S., Yasmin,

      Good work, with your new Blog. I even like it better than the poetry site.

      Delete
  9. Well, that felt like a hug. Right back at you. You don't realize how much you mean to others. happy Valentine's day to you, too.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 13, 2013 at 4:56 AM

      And you don't realize how much YOU keep me
      motivated. :-) Smooches, Lin. :-)
      I appreciate you more than words can convey.

      Delete
  10. Hi there Jennifer --

    Thank you very much for a lovely Valentine's Day post .

    I appreciate all your help thru the past three years.

    Sincerely,

    Steve

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 13, 2013 at 7:12 AM

      Steve,

      You are sweeter than any chocolate candy I could consume! :-) And You are quite welcome. Wishing you abundant success in 2013 and beyond!

      P.S. I always love to hear from the fellas' here.

      Delete
  11. That was a sweet love letter. I appreciate your support online and off. You are truly a blessing.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Jennifer Brown BanksFebruary 13, 2013 at 7:51 AM

    What a pleasant surprise. Thanks much, Marcie!

    ReplyDelete