Advice for Writers:
1 - Read. Especially read the kind of writing you're trying to create. If you want to write children's books, then read lots of children's books. If you're writing poetry, read lots of contemporary poetry. If you're writing science fiction & fantasy, then you should be reading current speculative fiction.
2 - Write. Write every chance you get. It doesn't have to be a masterpiece, just get your ideas down on paper. Practice really does improve your skill as a writer. A few writing prompts: Prose and Poetry.
3 - Revise. Most of us dislike the revision process, but it's necessary if the manuscript is to become tight and polished. No editor wants to see a first draft. It's your responsibility as a writer to prepare the best manuscript possible before submitting it to a publisher.
4 - Submit your writing to publishers. The worse thing that can happen, is the magazine, e-zine, or book editor says, "No." Remember, they're rejecting this particular piece of writing -- not you. So shrug your shoulders, research a new market, and re-submit!
5 - Take a class or 2. Whether offered by your local college or online, learn more about your craft by taking a writing class. Talk to writer friends and find out which classes they've taken that were helpful.
6 - Attend writers' conferences or seminars that offer interesting speakers at reasonable prices. Often writers' conferences are where you can meet editors, agents, and other writers with common interests. If you're interested in writing speculative fiction & poetry, many conventions like Balticon offer an abundance of programming for writers. Also, the dealers' rooms at cons often have hard-to-find speculative magazines and anthologies. Sometimes, the editors of the publications are sitting on the other side of the table. So politely, ask them about submitting.
7 - Join a critique group. Organize or join a group of writers that are your peers. If other writers in your group are too advanced, you'll become discouraged. If other writers in your group are too far behind you in their craft, their comments and suggestions won't be as helpful. And remember, keep the critiques professional. Make it a rule that first you must say something positive about the manuscript, and then, you can make suggestions for improving some of the weaker areas.
Whimsical Words
I suggest writers visit my blog, Whimsical Words. Then, highlight the "Writer's Advice" category for interesting and helpful posts and links. Or you can just enjoy all the posts, and get to know me better.
Bio & Promo Handouts
Authors (& illustrators) need a bio with basic information available. It's also nice to have book marks, business cards, postcards, and informative handouts when you appear at schools, meetings, and conferences.
Helpful websites
www.ralan.com markets for the speculative writer and/or artist. There is also a section on writing hints, etc.
Vonnie Winslow Crist 
Welcome to my worlds of magic, mystery, and adventure!