iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

We always love (and are eternally grateful for) free resources!

Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

As productivity goes, a desk that sparks joy makes each work session a little better. 💖✨ • Looking to prepare your writing for publishing? I’m a trained freelance nonfiction copy editor and writer. If you have a project you’d like some help with, get in touch! I offer free sample edits up to…[Contd]

An overhead view of Meaghan’s desk and work accessories, most of which are light pink.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

Confession: I get overwhelmed by having multiple projects on the go and don’t always know how to prioritize them! If one has a deadline, I try to do that one first. If it doesn’t, I do timed writing sprints, starting with any one of them and rotating until that’s done and so on! Cont’d…

A slip of paper on which “Facing deadline overwhelm? Try: Due first = do first” is written in pink ink. The paper and a pink pen lie on paper patterned with pink flowers.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

3 things working with an editor gives you: ▪ Objective, honest (but kind!) feedback ▪ Tangible—albeit digital—deliverables ▪ The knowledge that your writing will be understood by your readers If you have a project you'd like some editing assistance with, get in touch! I'd love to help. 🤓

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Happy Tuesday! Following last week’s post about September and renewal, I wondered if folks would be comfortable sharing goals (business and/or personal) for the rest of the year? For myself, I’d love to complete a couple more editing projects and three more jigsaw puzzles. 👩🏻‍💻🧩🥰 Have a good week! •

A slip of paper on which “What are your fourth quarter goals?” is written in purple ink. The paper lies next to a purple pen, mug, and toolbox on paper patterned with pastel coloured crystals.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

Today I learned: In case you were wondering, the "space bar" on a keyboard is two words in both the Merriam-Webster and Canadian Oxford Dictionaries, aka an open compound noun. 🤓 #AmEditing #Copyediting #Dictionary

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Setting the tone for reading for the rest of the year: some romance, some cozy, some contemporary, some bookishness, some classics, probably some fantasy. Let’s see where the next six months of pages takes us. 🥰🍂✨📖 • #Romance #Fiction #Autumn #Bookstagram #TBR

A copy of Bonfire & Bliss Bookstore by Nicole lies on paper patterned with autumnal flowers.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

It’s back to school time this week where I live, and I always love the sense of a fresh start that it brings. There’s a new energy and drive and I love the possibilities it brings! Do you feel this way about September, whether or not you’re still in school? •

A green pen rests on an open notebook on which “September, please be renewing.” is written in green ink.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

I always enjoy a good learning opportunity! My colleague @judylmohr.com is offering some workshops and a webinar in the coming months for writers and editors. They're sure to be thoroughly informative—check 'em out! Crafting Dialogue (Sept 25, 2026 at 9pm ET) payhip.com/b/Odtae [Cont'd below]

payhip.com

Crafting Dialogue (A Mini-Intensive Workshop)

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

Happy Monday, all! Just a little note of encouragement to writers from one of the most wonderful poets. ☺️ Have a great week! • Looking to prepare your writing for publishing? I’m a trained freelance nonfiction copy editor and writer. If you have a project you’d like some help with, get in touch!

A slip of paper on which “Instructions for living a life: Pay attention. Be astonished. Tell about it. —Mary Oliver” is written in blue ink lies with a green and blue pen atop a teal blue notebook on paper patterned with seashells and flowers.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Out now: This gorgeous ode to cookbooks by the sublime Debbie Berne. I haven’t been so excited to dive into a book in a long time. In Cookbooking, Berne covers all aspects of cookbook design and history, and I think it’s fair to say that anyone who uses or love them will find something to delight…

A copy of Berne’s Cookbooking sits on a pink wall shelf surrounded by framed prints.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

It’s National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day! 🍪 While it’s not a rule by any means, I do think having a little (optional) something extra can elevate your recipes. My favourite is studding my cookie dough balls with a few extra chips once they’re on the tray and hitting them with a tiny sprinkle of…

A slip of paper on which “Recipe Editor Tip # 4 A twist on a classic gives readers something new to try!” is written in brown ink lies with a brass pen on a brown notebook.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 27/07/2026

Happy Monday! I have slots available coming up in September through November and am always looking for folks in need of professional editorial assistance. I offer free sample edits up to 1,000 words (for full manuscripts), as well as 15-minute discovery calls to discuss your needs.

A pink and white graphic that says “Choice Words Editing Now Booking for Autumn 2026” and lists Meaghan’s services which include Recipe/cookbook Copyediting, Nonfiction Copyediting, Stylistic/line editing, Manuscript evaluation, and Authenticity reading.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

CMoS, is that you? Took me a bit but she has been thoroughly and properly tabulated! 🤓💛 It’s so gratifying to behold. 😍 • #ChicagoStyle #AmEditing #Copyediting #FreelanceEditor #Nonfiction

A copy of The Chicago Manual of Style 18 with colourful tabs labelling where things are in the guide.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 09/07/2026

Nonfiction audiobooks are like long-form podcasts without ads, but truthfully, I can't get enough of either. I always have one on when I'm puttering around or walking. 😅 Anyone else?

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

When it comes to recipe writing, it's all about the small details! If you're going to have a garnish adorning your dish in an accompanying photo, it should be mentioned in the ingredients list and method to avoid potential confusion. And if the garnish changes, make sure that change is reflected…

A slip of paper on which "Recipe Editor Tip 3: If a garnish is in the picture, make sure it's in the recipe!" is written in pink ink. The paper and a pink pen lie on a notebook patterned with many different kinds of foods and dishes in bright colours.

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mean things I say to myself @meantomyself.bsky.social · 29/06/2026

Old enough to recognize this as a data center

Lockable floppy disk holder from the late 20th century

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 29/06/2026

Sometimes, I worry I’m too productivity and positivity focused in my posts, and that I’m only showing wins and a rosy view of writing. Let me dispell that. Writing is NOT all sunshine and rainbows. It’s tough both to do and to get comissioned to do, especially these days with AI. My pitches have…

A slip of paper on which "Writing is HARD. It's okay to say so." is written in pink ink. The paper lies with two pink pens on a floral background of pink and red flowers.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 24/06/2026

New post! Thanks to Louisa Connolly-Burnham for asking me to watch and review her new short film, The Intimacy Coordinator. open.substack.com/pub/meaghans...

open.substack.com

A Spoiler-Free Review of The Intimacy Coordinator

A hidden truth threatens to be revealed in this daring new short film from Louisa Connolly-Burnham

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J.M. DeMatteis @jmdematteis.bsky.social · 10/06/2026

When you’re a freelancer, the operative word is FREE. Work for as many different companies as you can. Your loyalty should always be to the work and to your collaborators...the artists, writers and editors who are an intimate part of your creative process.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 09/06/2026

This encouraging sentiment from Ralph Waldo Emerson was shared on @tarawhitaker.com’s podcast episode on affirmations, and I really appreciated hearing it. Focusing on the end goal of something rather than the barriers won’t make them disappear, but doing so will keep you from dwelling on them …

A pink notepad and pen on a pink background. On the notepad is written “‘I’m not pushed by my problems, I’m led by my dreams.’ —Tara Whitaker, The Modern Editor Podcast”.

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Erin Brenner (she/her) @ebrenner.bsky.social · 02/06/2026

Has anyone ever told you to stop using the em dash? The problem isn't the dash—it's not knowing how to use it. Next week's newsletter makes the case for it. Subscribe on LinkedIn: #WritingTips #AmEditing zurl.co/HmOQR

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 01/06/2026

Something to take into the week, if anyone needs to hear it. 💚 • Looking to prepare your writing for publishing? I’m a trained freelance nonfiction copy editor and writer. If you have a project you’d like some help with, get in touch! I offer free sample edits up to 1,000 words…

A slip of paper on which “‘You fail only if you stop writing.’ —Ray Bradbury” is written in green ink. The paper lies with a green pen on a green background.

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The Walrus @thewalrus.ca · 22/05/2026

🚨 DEADLINE ALERT 🚨: The Walrus is accepting applications for a Freelance Audience Editor (Newsletter & Video) and a Freelance Audience Video Producer until 11:59 p.m. ET tonight. Learn more: thewalrus.ca/about/careers

thewalrus.ca

Careers & Fellowships | The Walrus

Jobs, fellowships, and internships at the Walrus Foundation

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 25/05/2026

When you’re writing a recipe that uses multiple parts of citrus, specify that the reader should peel or zest the fruit before juicing, as it’s a lot easier to do so when it’s still whole. 🍊🍋🍋‍🟩 Happy writing!

A notepad on which “Recipe Editor Tip 1: Watch your wording when it comes to lemons! Here’s why (see caption)” is written in deep yellow ink lies next to a white pen on a notebook patterned with illustrations of fruit.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 22/05/2026

Conference tip (from experience): Bring a fine tip permanent pen like a Sharpie to scribble notes or "reminders" on the business cards you're given. They dry quickly and crisp, whereas other pens could smear. The last thing you need is ink on your hand or favourite blazer! 🤓

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 18/05/2026

It’s been a minute so I thought a reintroduction was in order! 👋🏻 I’m a professionally trained freelancer specializing in nonfiction content, and I offer copy/line editing, select authenticity reading, manuscript assessment, and writing services.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 11/05/2026

I LOVE food-focused podcasts, and these three in particular offer helpful information for all the steps and people involved in publishing your recipes and and cookbooks, from parts of a cookbook to editing to querying to marketing. If you have other favourite foodie pods I’d love to know them! 🎧

A jam jar-shaped notepad on which “Recipe writers, here are 3 podcasts you should know: Cookbook Love, Everything Cookbooks, She’s My Cherry Pie” is written in blue ink. The notepad lies next to a red pen on a background patterned with bees and strawberries.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 04/05/2026

Recipe writers, here are three book titles that will make structuring and formatting your recipes easier. There are countless ways to do this, and there’s no one “right” method, as long as the route you choose is consistent, and easy to comprehend for your readers. I hope you find them helpful!

A slip of paper on which is written three book titles recipe writers will find helpful. They are The Complete Recipe Writing Guide by Sarazen, Will Write for Food by Jacob, and Barron’s The New Food Lover’s Companion by Herbst and Herbst.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 27/04/2026

Another testimonial from a client, whose personal statement to a master’s admissions committee I was fortunate enough to edit. 😄 I’m always grateful for the chance to work with awesome clients! • Looking to prepare your writing for publishing? I’m a trained freelance nonfiction copy editor.

A pink and white graphic with a testimonial about working with Meaghan.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 11/04/2026

Wonderful piece from @thewalrus.ca "Most recently, the internet decided that em dashes belong to large language models. There seemed to be mutual consensus in the online world ... that frequent em dashes are no longer the result of human behaviour." thewalrus.ca/i-love-the-e...

thewalrus.ca

I Love the Em Dash—Too Bad If AI Does Too | The Walrus

I won’t abandon the controversial punctuation mark just to prove I’m human

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 11/04/2026

Today's conference sessions have been fascinating so far!

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 30/03/2026

While taking inspiration from others can be great for motivation, it doesn’t serve us to compare our progress with others if it means we’ll feel behind or badly about ourselves as a result. We don’t all reach the finish line at the same time! And, really, it’s not a race. Have a great week! 🌤️

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OTHERSIDE @othersidespec.bsky.social · 29/03/2026

We would love to see more nonfiction in our queue! We're especially interested in topics compelling to an audience interested in both queerness & speculative literature. Think: queer history, science, critical analysis, & pieces that blur genre boundaries. Guidelines: othersidespec.com/guidelines/

othersidespec.com

Submission Guidelines - OTHERSIDE

Submission guidelines for fiction and poetry submissions to OTHERSIDE, including opening dates and how to submit.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 23/03/2026

This sentiment, often attributed to Kelly Corrigan, contains a lot of wisdom on balancing fun with practicality. With writing, let’s assume the glitter is the good stuff: that zing of joy you get when you’ve worded something well, getting something published, or any accolades of recognition.

A slip of paper on which “You cannot have a career of all glitter and no glue.” is written in purple ink lies amongst iridescent pens and cards shaped like seashells.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 17/03/2026

Looking to prepare your writing for publishing? I’m a trained freelance nonfiction copy editor and writer booking for Spring 2026. If you have a project you’d like some help with, get in touch! I offer free sample edits up to 1,000 words (for full manuscripts), as well as

A gallery wall of framed prints with text along the front detailing the benefits of working with an editor.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 11/03/2026

As a writer, it’s nice to get more information and encouragement from different sources. But it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the information, and feel the pressure to do what everyone else is doing! Remember that there’s no one way to be a writer, and you can curate the best tidbits of advice

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 11/03/2026

Lunch with a friend inspired this blog post for @editorsteaclub.bsky.social, and I hope it’s helpful to others.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 06/03/2026

Really grateful that I got to write this piece! Thanks, @animeherald.com 🙏🏻

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 24/02/2026

I wanted to show off some updates to my website! Head to the link in my bio to check them out. ✨ We love a refresh. 🖌️🎨 • I’m a freelance nonfiction copy editor and writer booking for Spring 2026. If you have a project you’d like some help with, get in touch! I offer free sample edits up to 1,000

Graphics with screenshots of new updates to Meaghan’s website.

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Editors Tea Club @editorsteaclub.bsky.social · 16/02/2026

ETC Blog post: Whether you’re in-house, freelance, or somewhere in the margins, this roundup of books by @choicewordsedit.bsky.social spills the tea on how editors have shaped publishing across the last century—messy desks, brilliant instincts, and all! www.editorsteaclub.org/blog-posts/s...

Photo of a floral teacup, saucer, and teapot sitting on a pink tablecloth with a formal tea setup. Text: Blog Post: Six Books on the lives, careers, and adventures of editors. Editorsteaclub.org.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 16/02/2026

Taking a metaphorical moment here: When we’re kids, we believe we’ll follow a linear path to what we want, but as we get older we learn that’s often not true. The road can change, throwing us curves, or delays, or we might wake up wanting to try a new direction. Allllll of this is okay, and a

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 10/02/2026

Sourdough bread is a thing of beauty.

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 02/02/2026

Took a few weeks off from posting but I’m back with slots open for spring!🦋 • I’m a freelance nonfiction copy editor and writer booking for Spring 2026. If you have a project you’d like some help with, get in touch! I offer free sample edits up to 1,000 words (for full manuscripts) cont’d…

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 12/01/2026

I finally found my word of the year! I have mixed feelings on the idea of transformation and change, but I hope for a lot of positive transcendence in 2026. 💖 Seeing the different words or phrases that will guide people through a new year has always been inspirational to me. Do you have yours yet?

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Meaghan Steeves @choicewordsedit.bsky.social · 07/01/2026

I finally have this beauty in hand! ♥️ I never thought I’d be this excited about a new dictionary, but it’s a lot of fun to explore. And it’s so cool (nerdy) that I follow a bunch of the editors who worked on this and know their names. 😅📖 • #MerriamWebster #Dictionary #Nonfiction #Bookstagram

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