Writing My Way Around the World

Tapping Into the Traditions of the Cook Islands

04.22.11 Posted in Clips by

Few people have heard of the Cook Islands and even fewer have visited this island nation in the South Pacific, but for those who make the trip there are several local traditions just waiting to be discovered and enjoyed. Though often overshadowed by its neighbors Fiji and Tahiti, the Cook Islands is home to dance and music, athletic pursuits and activities unique to the nation. Uncover some of those traditions with this piece, which not only provides a bit of history but also suggestions on how visitors can immerse themselves in the action.


Part-Time Team, Full-Time Spirit

04.15.11 Posted in Clips by

Although some all-star cheerleading gym owners are hesitant to offer anything but year-long programs, many gyms have discovered benefits of offering half- and quarter-year squads. This article explains how part-time teams work, how they benefit cheer programs and what owners should consider before introducing them at their gyms.


6 Thrilling Adventure Activities in Las Vegas

04.13.11 Posted in Clips by

Las Vegas is for gamblers, partiers and adventure seekers, as noted in this guest blog post for GoBackpacking.com. In the piece, I’ve noted six distinct adventures found in Las Vegas, including adult-only roller skating, paintball, trampoline fun and amusement park rides in oversized hotels.


5 Tips for the Hesitant Blogger

04.12.11 Posted in Clips by

Many people feel like they should start a blog, but they don’t know how or they don’t understand how to manage it. Once a person begins blogging, he has to commit to it, which can be a scary proposition, but with dedication and a plan, this seemingly overwhelming task can be fun and professionally viable. This post offers five simple suggestions for people who would like to give blogging a try.


National Parks: East to West

03.29.11 Posted in Clips by

Everyone contributes some sort of funding to the National Park Service in the United States, but are all parks created equal? And are they all equally accessible to everyone? This article examines the efforts of the National Park Service to provide services to those with disabilities. It also offers advice for those who would like to visit the parks.


A Positive Lesson in Rejection

03.28.11 Posted in Clips by

Sometimes writers think they’ve made the perfect pitch to an editor, but something about the article idea may not be quite right for the publication. Instead of walking away from rejection feeling angry and defeated, writers are better off taking what they’ve learned and turning the potentially negative experience into a positive one. This piece provides suggestions to writers on how they can make the most of such a situation.


3 Reasons to Fight the Urge to Avoid Las Vegas

03.25.11 Posted in Clips by

Many people are very much opposed to visiting Las Vegas, but this guest blog post provides a few reasons why people should stop avoiding the city.


Minimal Waste and Creative Creations

03.15.11 Posted in Clips by

There’s no need to throw out every little scrap of paper and used piece of cloth. Many things that people consider to be garbage often have a second life somewhere inside; it’s just a matter of figuring out how to turn trash into treasures. In this piece, I offer innovative solutions for items that would otherwise be discarded.


Seven Culinary Experiences Not to Miss in Switzerland

03.09.11 Posted in Clips by

Switzerland is known for its cuisine. From the fondue and chocolate to the beer and wine, the culinary classics in this European country are reason enough to visit. This article highlights seven of the most noteworthy foods and beverages in Switzerland and provides suggestions on specific experiences visitors can have in regard to these gastronomic delights.


Barre Las Vegas: Where Small Movements Make Big Changes

03.03.11 Posted in Clips by

A local business in Las Vegas called Barre Las Vegas is helping women achieve their ideal body shape through barre exercises. The activity focuses on small, concentrated movements, which tone and refine muscle shape and strength. This piece weaves personal experience with information on this workout and the company that is helping women shed their unwanted fluff, one inch and one pound at a time.


Portrait of JoAnna Haugen Freelance writer, globe trotter, former Peace Corps volunteer, avid recycler, creativity connoisseur, idea inventor and planning my next great adventure.