Cherry Kisses

Cherry kisses are Hershey's chocolates with a cherry center, and we have a plethora of them here at the Writing Center, thanks to one man. We literally have bowls, bags, and drawers full of this small treat. The first few taste great, but there comes a time when enough is enough! I cannot eat another kiss; I will not do it. Eating one or two every now and again is a pleasure, but I cannot bear to eat them continuously.

Such is the case with many things in writing. Less is more. Let a direct quote add flair and credibility to your paragraph, but do not let it suffocate your other sentences. Use long and complex sentences to deliver your information in a sophisticated manner, but let short sentences add variety and simplicity as well. Use three examples to prove your point, or surprise the reader by saying nothing instead (just kidding - do not do this).

Cherry kisses are good. Let's keep them that way. Writing is also good and tasty. Let's keep it that way.

p.s. Come eat our kisses.

Busy, busy.

My, things are flying fast over here! If you could see for yourself, you would witness the buzz of activity that has become the Writing Center. So many people are wanting to improve their writing through tutoring sessions with the Writing Center that our slots are filling up quickly. If you need to schedule an appointment, call at least 2 or 3 days in advance because we are hopping! Don't make the fatal mistake of waiting until the last minute! Hop on the phone to schedule your appointment today. Otherwise, you may experience the devastation and heartache known only to those who cannot get an appointment before their assignment is due. Alas, we try to help them in their noble pursuit but are restricted by the bonds of time and space.

Hop-hop.

or

Huff-puff.

The Clueless Reader

I have a confession to make. I, as a reader, am clueless. In fact, I'm a bit of a dimwit. When reading, I struggle to figure the information out on my own. It's like I have to have everything spelled out for me . . .

But that is who I am: a clueless reader. Maybe I'm not alone. Maybe I'm not the only who struggles to know what is meant by words such as "things" and "stuff." Maybe I'm not the only one who needs a transition to inform me that the paper has switched topics. Maybe I'm not the only one who has great difficulty guessing the intention of a writer.

But I'm okay with who I am, and I would gladly have everyone treat me as I deserve. I am a babe. I am unfamiliar with the writer's background information. I am a clueless reader. You will not insult me by making your points extra clear, your words precise, your organization intentional, and your phrasing concise. No, you will not insult me . . . you will honor me.

The List

I've decided to spend the night in the Writing Center to better acquaint myself with the illustrious atmosphere. For my adventure, I need to bring a toothbrush, a flashlight (for reading at night), paper and nutrients.

Wait a second! I think I forgot something! I also need to remember my commas. In this day and age one cannot forget any commas in a list. Since paper and nutrients are two separate items on my list, and my list contains more than two items, they need to be separated by a comma as well. I must put the comma before "and."

For my adventure, I need to bring a toothbrush, a flashlight (for reading at night), paper, and nutrients.

Ahhh! Now I have everything. Let the adventure begin!



2:39 am - It's dark and scary in here.