Write Away: Advice for freelance journalists on negotiating rates
THERE was a fabulous response to my Write Away post last week which explained some basic advice for anyone starting out in freelance writing. Thank you everyone who commented and thank you to Josie whose question prompted the advice - and who went on to

Ten reasons I don't comment on your blog
1. YOU don't let me or ask me to register. 2. You ask me to use a Google or Blogger account - which I have but for reasons too complicated to explain, can't access. 3. It's too difficult and your site keeps telling me there is a problem. (This happens a lot with Blogger sites) or I can't read your Captcha code thingumajig and I give up ***Edit: This happens with Typepad too, I know, um sorry about that!

On turning the air blue in the supermarket and other adventures up the aisles
Photo by daveknapik on Flickr EVER wondered what goes on behind the scenes to bring you your weekend news? Once this involved me standing by the satsumas in Sainsbury’s yelling "cock". I'm surprised I didn't

A message from Great Ormond Street children's hospital...
...OR, what does Melissa's dance teacher have in common with Simon Cowell? Some may have other answers, but mine is, they are both backing Great Ormond Street children's hospital. Our local dancing school has donated thousands of pounds over the years and now telly's biggest mugging-for-the-cameras-cum-sobbing-cum-hard-luck-stories fest* is also lending its weight to support the world famous hospital. * Well apart from I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here. Emil

Media request: Are you in favour of the swine flu vaccine? MyChild wants to hear from you
MyChild editor Amy is looking for parents who want their children to be vaccinated to comment in a piece about the swine flu vaccine. Please email Amy.Schofield[at]mychild.co.uk if this applies to you. Please note this is a time-sensitive piece and as such responses are sought as soon as possible. Please also note that Amy may not be able to get back to you as quickly as you may hope. (My words, not hers!)