Celebrating the Twelve Days of Christmas – One Day at a Time

On the 9th Day of Christmas…

Some say the Nine Ladies Dancing represent the Nine-Day Novenas. A novena is made up of nine days of prayer and meditation for some thing or some guidance from God. Can you see “dance” in that word “guidance?”

On the Ninth Day of Christmas, Chanticleer brings to me…

Top Tips to keep your Software up to date and Safe!

On the 9th Day of Christmas, we’re taking a step into the digital world—because just like you need a clean workspace and a fresh computer, your software needs attention too. As we head into 2024, it’s the perfect time to ensure that the tools you rely on for your writing are running smoothly and securely. Let’s take a look at some essential software maintenance tasks to help you start the new year on the right foot.

J.L. Oakley’s intern Kinky Boots knows all about software

1. Password Management: Secure Your Work and Peace of Mind

Let’s start with something crucial: your passwords. Did you know that more than 6 million passwords are hacked every single day? Keeping your passwords secure should be at the top of your list for 2024.

Use a reliable password manager to keep track of all your credentials. Whether you choose LastPass, 1Password, or Bitwarden, a password manager helps protect your accounts and saves you from using the same password for everything — something that could be a major security risk.

Take it a step further by enabling two-factor authentication on your accounts. It may feel like a hassle, but it’s an essential safeguard against unauthorized access.

2. Clearing Your Cache: Keep Your Browser Running Smoothly

Your browser’s cache might be storing old data that can slow down your computer. It’s time for a little “browser hygiene.”

Clearing your cache regularly helps speed up your browsing experience and ensures that you’re always seeing the latest version of your favorite websites — especially your author platform. While every browser has a different method for clearing the cache, it’s worth doing every few months (or when your browser starts feeling sluggish).

Remember, clearing cookies can also help with privacy. It’s a simple way to protect your data while browsing, so it’s worth adding to your routine maintenance.

NOTE: Before you do this, please be sure to have your passwords secure. Clearing your cache on some browsers can remove any saved passwords you might have.

3. Anti-Virus and Malware Protection: Stay Safe from Threats

The risk of cyber threats is real, but fortunately, a good anti-virus program can keep you safe. With malware attacks becoming more sophisticated, it’s essential to have a reliable anti-virus program that updates daily to guard against the latest threats. Programs like Norton and Bitdefender are great options to keep your devices secure.

It’s important to regularly update your anti-virus software and run periodic scans to detect any potential threats lurking on your system. If your computer slows down unexpectedly, or if you start receiving strange messages from your contacts, it could be a sign that malware has slipped in.

4. Backup Your Files: Don’t Let Data Loss Derail Your Year

Writers, don’t let your precious words be vulnerable to data loss. Backing up your files is the most effective way to ensure that your work is protected. Whether you use Google Drive, OneDrive, or an external hard drive, always have a backup plan.

Consider setting up an automatic backup system, so you never forget to save your most recent work. Remember: if it’s important enough to write, it’s important enough to back up.

5. Update Your Software: Stay Current for Optimal Performance

Last but not least, always keep your software up to date. Software developers release regular updates to patch security vulnerabilities, fix bugs, and improve performance. Make sure your operating system, writing tools (like Scrivener or Word), and any other software you use are running the latest versions.

Outdated software can cause compatibility issues, slow down your computer, and expose you to security risks, so take the time to check for updates.

Get Ready for the New Year of Writing!

By taking a little time to clean up your software and digital space, you’ll be setting yourself up for a successful and productive 2025. These simple steps will help you stay secure, organized, and ready to tackle your writing goals without any digital distractions.

The Ninth Day of Christmas gift of Nine Ladies Dancing are symbolic of the nine life principles: Love, Joy, Peace, Kindness, Goodness, Loyalty, Gentleness, Self-Control, and Patience.

“But Jiminy Crickets, it’s after December 25th! Is it not too late for the 12 Days of Christmas?” you say.

Not to fear, Chanticleerians! The 12 Days of Christmas begins on December 26th! And it continues to the 6th of January – Three Kings Day. The four weeks leading up to Christmas is known as the Advent.

So if you haven’t finished wrapping presents, sending out those cards, and baking cookies—don’t worry—you still have time! Well, four days that is. 

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team! 

On the Ninth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Nine Ladies Dancing

Eight Maids A-Milking

Seven Swans A-Swimming

Six Geese A-Laying

Five Golden Rings

Four Calling Birds

Three French Hens (Chanticleer’s favorite #justsaying)

Two Turtle Doves

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree 

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team! 

Stay tuned for the 10th Day of Christmas!

Our favorite part about having the 12 Days of Christmas is that we can have the time we need to celebrate with our loved ones. We have time for wrapping our presents, meeting with friends for hot cocoa, and setting ourselves up in the New Year  for publishing success (with Chanticleer Professional Services and the Chanticleer Authors Conference).

Wishing you Happy Holidays from Chanticleer from Kiffer, David, Dena, Scott, Anya, and Argus!