As I approach 70, I’ve been reevaluating things in my life. I don’t know how many years I have left, but my mom lived to 90, so that’s 20 more years? I’m physically fit for my age. I can still touch my toes and do squats, run short distances, and dance one or two Israeli dances then rest. Because I don’t have the stamina I used to, I’m having to pick and choose what I do.
I love music, and miss doing concerts, but I just don’t have the stamina to make it through an hour-long concert. The focus for music in my life has shifted from ministry to others, to music as personal worship, fun with family, and occasionally doing specials or helping with worship at my congregation. I still hope to get more recorded songs out, but I’m dependent on Mark for that, and he has shifted too. He is very busy with other things.
My new love is writing. With three books out and a fourth in the works, I’d hoped more of those who love my music would also enjoy my books, but that hasn’t happened. It’s a completely different audience, and for now, a much smaller one. I know there are readers out there, and I’ve wondered, how do I find them? How can I introduce myself and my books?
I have some fun ideas, and would like to get your opinion.
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I've written a short prequel to my book series to give as a gift for anyone who signs up for my newsletter on my author website. I don’t have it set up yet, but if you’ve never been there, here’s a link. https://shimrithanes.com Anyone who’s already signed up will get the e novella as soon as I get that finished.
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I'd like to create short videos on my progress and thoughts. Since only a few attend my live chats (people are too busy and no date or time seems to work for everyone) videos seem a good bet. You can watch a video whenever you have time.
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Update my website more often (the author site) and keep it updated.
This one will take scheduling and discipline. I’m just getting back on track after some troubles in the family that took a good deal of my time and attention. This is an introductory email. Your input will affect what I write in the regular monthly one. I’ll be sending slightly different letters to our Zemer Levav mailing list, and my Author website mailing list.
Here are a few more general questions:
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What would you like to hear more about? Our life here in FL including, gardening, fishing, my jewelry making? What other members of the family are up to? New song ideas? Lyrics? My thoughts on health and aging?
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Are you interested in what I’m writing? Would you like to get excerpts from my books? Progress on my new book?
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Would you like links to any video podcasts I make?
Thank you so much for following us for so long. Thank you to those of you who support us financially through our Zemer Levav website: https://www.zemerlevav.org/subscriber-treasure You have been a tremendous blessing, as our monthly income is very low, and you’ve made our lives less of a struggle. May Adonai bless you as you have blessed us.
I have so much more to share, but I don’t want to make an overly long newsletter! I look forward to your input on my questions, and I’ll have more in the future!
Adonai bless and keep you and yours, ~Shimrit
If you’ve never checked out my books and are interested:
https://www.amazon.com/Dreamers-Terra-Colony-Project/dp/B08LNHQ4QF/