Writers Block/Editing/Heartbeat Bill/Devo/Reader Gifts

1. Tammy Karasek posts at The Write Conversation. Are you having trouble putting words on paper? She has some great suggestions on how to break through it.

2. Barbara Linn Probst gives us an excellent tutorial on how to eliminate unnecessary words from our manuscripts. She also gives examples of when to keep words that show up often. Check out her post at Writer Unboxed.

3. The Ohio House has voted to ban abortions once there is a detectable fetal heartbeat. There are enough votes in the Senate to pass the bill. However, Governor John Kasich has opposed the bill and will not sign it. The President of the Senate is considering holding the vote until the new governor, Mike Dewine, takes office. He has pledged to sign the bill. Check out the article at Breaking Christian News.

4.  Dena Netherton posts about healthy habits, which includes her daily quiet time. I'm always interested in how people like to study the Word.

5.  We've seen a lot of posts on gifts for writers, but what about readers? Besides the obvious gift of books, here are some suggestions at Best Products. (Note: I don't endorse all the products, but 98% are okay.)

Writers and Readers:  What is on your writer or reader Wish List for this Christmas?

Photo Credit: Doctor-a

Your Song/Research/Pro-Life/Devo/Christmas Cards

1.  This is not the usual writing advice found in this section of Weekend Potpourri. Emme Gannon's post at The Write Conversation resonated with me, and I wanted to share it with all of you. I hope it inspires you as much as it inspired me.

2.  Research is a vital part of writing a book, whether fiction or non-fiction. Dan Koboldt posts at Jane Friedman's blog, giving some examples of research gone wrong. He then provides advice on how to make sure you're information is accurate.

3.  Breaking Christian News highlights the theme of this year's pro-life rally, "Pro-Life Is Pro-Science." This thorough article shows the science behind the pro-life position.

4.  Whatever creative endeavors you enjoy, there comes a time when it seems to die. Take heart as you read Dena Netherton's post, "The Source of the Harvest."

5.  I'm nostalgic for the Christmas celebrations of my childhood. I found this site that offers information on vintage Christmas cards. My mother would collect all the cards and then tape them around the large mirror over our couch. We used any additional cards to decorate the opening between the living room and dining area.

Writers and Readers: Are you sending out Christmas cards this year? Please share.

Photo Credit: Irenels

I'm A Little Late - But Here Are The Cookies!

I promised I'd show you pictures of my baking exploits, so here they are. There were two sessions: one with a friend and one with Sweetie Mom:

My friend, Cathy, and I made Linzer Tarts and Peanut Butter Blossoms one Saturday afternoon. We tried doing two different sizes of the tarts, but decided we liked the small ones best.

Lots and lots of Peanut Butter Blossoms.

I made the dough at home to save time. 

Cathy found special cookie cutters for the Linzer Tarts. They had several designs for the center. My favorite is the heart.

Friday, 12/22/17, I made a bunch of butter cookies shaped like Christmas Trees, Stars, Bells, and Angels. The round and twisted cookies are Anginettes, a yummy Italian cookie.

The baking was a lot of work but so much fun.

Writers and Readers:  Do you bake Christmas cookies/cakes? Please share in the comments. If you can, I'd love to see a picture.

Newbie Writers/Publishing?/"Chlot"/Memoir/Silent Night

1.  Multi-published author Jody Hedlund gives sage advice to the novice writer. Don't miss these nuggets.

2.  So, you think you can make this publishing thing happen if you work hard enough. Ashley Clark shares her experiences at The Writer's Alley. There's much wisdom here if you'll read with an open heart.

3.  Wendy Paine Miller has an excellent post on "chlot." What is, "chlot?" Pop over to her  blog and find out. Hint: It will help you write your novel.

4.  LOL! This Weekend Potpourri is shaping up to be for writers. Readers, I promise the last link will be something for you.

In the meantime, I discovered a post at The Write Conversation on How Personal  Little Stories Become Big Bestsellers. If you're into writing a memoir, this is for you.

5.  Silent Night is one of the classic Christmas Carols. Like many songs, this one has a story. Janice Hayden submitted this article.

Here's a beautiful arrangement by Pentatonix on YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sme8N2pzRx8

Writers:  What do you think is more important to a novel: character or plot? Please explain.

Readers:  What is your favorite Christmas Carol?

Photo Credit:  Michael Pohl

The Cookie Baking that Got Postponed

Dear Blogging Friends,

Last Friday, a friend and I were supposed to bake cookies together. Today, the results would have been shown here.

A scheduling conflict and a winter storm pushed that event to next Friday (12/22/17). When it happens, I'll be sure to share my pictures.

In the meantime, how are your Christmas preparations going? I'm finished with the shopping, cards, and wrapping. We're just waiting on those cookies!

Enjoying the journey,
Susan :)

Blessed Instead of Stressed

For too long, I allowed the pressures of a busy schedule to steal the joy of Christmas. It seemed like the celebration stretched my to-do list to the breaking point.

This year, I decided to focus on the meaningful items rather than trying to cram every activity available into a few short weeks:

1.  The birth of Jesus.

2.  Making the day special for the people I love.

3.  Thinking of those less fortunate through Operation Christmas Child and our church's annual toy/clothing giveaway.

4.  Shopping with an eye not only for bargains, but also for gifts people would truly appreciate.

5.  Baking cookies.

Instead of having to get it done, I get to do things that matter - giving with all my heart.

Writers and Readers: How do you keep Christmas blessed instead of stressed?

Photo Credit:  Jenny Erickson

Scene Launch/Story Details/Cancer Therapy/Dream/Why Christmas?

1.  Jordan Rosenfeld guest posts on Jane Friedman's blog. She gives us 4 Ways to Launch a Scene. Take a look at these great tips for writers in all genres.

2.  It's easy to get bogged down with story details. Zoe M. McCarthy gives some concise ways to get the message across.

3.  Breaking Christian News reports on the FDA's approval of a new gene therapy that may treat deadly and formerly untreatable forms of cancer. For all of us who have been touched by this scourge either personally or a loved one, this is good news.

4.  Emme Gannon writes an encouraging posts to writers, but it can apply to anyone. Don't let anyone crush your dreams.

5.  I found a website called, "whychristmas." It talks about how various traditions began and how to create some new traditions for your family. I've included the page on the Christmas Story here for your enjoyment.

Writers:  Which writing tip was your favorite? Please share.

Readers:  Do you have any family Christmas traditions? Favorite foods/ornaments/events?

Photo Credit:  Dimitris Petridis

Bestseller Potential/Vintage Photos/Nativity/Devo/Colonial Christmas

1.  Chad Allen talks about developing a book concept with bestseller potential. The key is finding out the needs of readers and meeting them.

2.   I'm always looking for inspiration for my blog posts. How about you? Jean Fischer, at Something to Write Home About, shares some photo resources.

3.   WND reports that anonymous donors are behind a campaign to install nativity scenes nationwide. This story warmed my heart. It's about time we pushed back the darkness.

4.  Bonnie Leon's blog post struck a chord in my heart. Sometimes we're so focused on the weeds that we miss the good things happening in our lives. Don't miss this thoughtful devotional.

5.  Rather than the usual Christmas recipes, I thought you might be interested in what type of foods were served in Colonial and Early American times. This is an interesting article for young people doing school papers. Check it out at http://www.foodtimeline.org/christmasmenu.html#coloniachristmas

Writers:  Do photographs jumpstart your creative process for either blogging or writing? Please share.

Readers:  What types of food do you serve for Christmas? Have you ever tried something from another time period? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Antony Ruggiero

Anecdotes/Hiring Editor?/Founding Fathers/Devo/Christmas Decor

1.  Jerry Jenkins offers stellar advice on how to write an anecdote. Now that may not seem interesting, but non-fiction comes alive as we use stories to illustrate our points. Don't miss this great article.

2.  Jane Friedman talks about when you shouldn't hire an editor. With so many people asking questions about when it's appropriate/not appropriate, I thought it would be a useful link.

3.  Now, some people want to trash monuments of our Founding Fathers even though they died long before the South seceded from the Union.

4.  Kristen Hogrefe shares a wonderful devotional on the Hills and Valleys of the Writing Life. It could just as easily apply to any other endeavor.

5.  Even though Thanksgiving marks the official start of the Christmas Season, we've been seeing decorations in the stores since September. I found a great site with DIY ideas for Christmas decor. It covers both indoor and outdoor, games for kids, and lighting.

Writers:  Do you use anecdotes in your non-fiction writing? Please share.

Readers:  Do you add to your Christmas decorations each year or do you use family favorites? Please share some pictures if you can. :)

Photo Credit:  Andrew Beierle

I'm So Glad He Did!

https://youtu.be/ZyVGegyQHpk



Christmas is less than a week away. The focus is often on what it means to us. Sure, that's important, but what did it mean to the Savior?

His obedience to the Father's plan cost Him everything, but He didn't look at the short-term loss. Instead, He saw the end result - the reconciliation of fallen man to the Father.

He left heaven's splendor for the ugliness of a world polluted by sin.

He shed the light of truth concerning God's character and dispelled the lies of the enemy by healing the sick and setting the captives free.

He experienced our pain, hunger, and weariness. He knew the betrayal of a friend and the censure of family members. Rejection and persecution were an almost daily occurrence.

The path of obedience wasn't any easier for Him than it is for us, but He despised the present circumstances for the glory that would follow the completion of His mission. I don't know why He made that sacrifice, but as the song says, "I'm so glad He did."

If you've never asked Jesus to forgive your sins and be the Lord of your life, I invite you to say this prayer:

Thank You, Jesus, that You came to this earth to live a perfect, sinless life, took the punishment we deserved on the cross, and arose from the dead. Forgive my sins, come into my heart, and make me like You. Thank You.

John 3:16-19
Romans 3:23
Romans 6:23
Ephesians 2:8,9

May this Christmas be the year of your rebirth in Him.

Likeable/Slush Pile/Cliff Barrows/Finished?/Christmas Gifts

1.  Lisa Cron, the author of Wired for Story and Story Genius, joins the Writers in The Storm contributors. In her first article, she deals with the question, "What Does Likeable Really Mean?" Fiction writers hear this term tossed around all the time. Wouldn't you like to know what it means?"

2.  Here's one for all the Indie authors out there. Tracie Tyne Hilton, at The Write Conversation, discusses why an Indie Author Needs a Slush Pile. Yeah, catchy title. It's worth checking out.

3.  Christian Headlines reports that Cliff Barrows, friend and associate of Billy Graham, has passed away at age 93. I have fond memories of this great choirmaster. Way back in the sixties, Sweetie Mom and I sang in the choir at the New York Billy Graham Crusade. It was amazing how this kind man took hundreds of singers and transformed them into a choir.

4.  You don't have to be a writer to receive this encouraging message from Dena Netherton. :)

5.  Christmas preparations are in full swing around here. I love planning gift giving and try to find something special for each person on my list. Real Simple gives 6 Clever Items to Simplify Your Life. There are a couple of items on the list I wouldn't mind getting for Christmas. :)

Writers:  How does the term, "Likeable," translate in your stories? How do you keep readers from wanting to smack your characters?

Readers:  Do you search online for unique gifts for family and friends? Maybe you could pass along some of your tips. :)

Photo Credit:  John Siebert

Saying Goodbye to Christmas Blues

Since my husband passed away nine years ago, it's been hard to get excited about Christmas. Oh, I've gone through the motions for the sake of those I love, but couldn't muster a whole lot of enthusiasm on a heart level.

A funny thing happened this year. I was in Walmart when the first Christmas decorations appeared, and something inside me woke up. I thought about how bare the outside of my house looked while twinkling lights and wreaths adorned my neighbors' homes. A red bell caught my eye. There wasn't anything special about it, but I picked it up and put it into my cart.

It was way too soon to put it on my front door, but I could hardly wait. As weeks passed, my anticipation heightened. Finally, after Thanksgiving, I decorated. It might not seem like much, but it was a big deal for me.

Christmas joy is back.

Writers and Readers: Was there a time when everyone around you was celebrating but you were doing the "bah humbug" thing? How did you get past the Christmas Blues?

Photo Credit:  Radim Pechan

Christmas Gift Ideas

Once upon a time, my Christmas gift-giving list covered more than a page. As my husband, grandparents, Dad, and some friends have departed for heaven, it has shrunk like a sweater placed in a hot dryer. Prices and less physical energy have also had a dampening effect on buying presents.

I've been thinking about creative ways to celebrate and bring joy into the lives of others.

1.  Since I'm an author, a Christmas letter tucked into a card helps me share events from the year nearing its end. I know it isn't original, but I still enjoy sending and receiving them.

2.  Silly, little gifts often show more thought than big, expensive ones. If a friend loves a certain type of chocolate or comments they love fuzzy socks, a package with a sweet note will bring a smile to their faces.

3.  A lot of older folks in nursing homes have lost loved ones. It's a stretch to think of something useful or enjoyable. If they like to write letters or send cards, a package of blank note cards and/or birthday cards along with a book of stamps might give them hours of pleasure. Crossword or word search puzzle books, lap robes, or a package of treats (taking into account dietary restrictions) are also good choices.

The gift of time is also appreciated by the elderly. A breakfast at an inexpensive restaurant, helping them with grocery/Christmas shopping, or inviting them over for a meal can be a welcome break from their routine.

4.  Books. Now you know I couldn't put a list together without including books! So many people have Kindles/Nooks and other e-readers these days, and you can get many Christmas novellas for $1.99 or less. If your friends or relatives prefer print books, many go on sale or can be found in the Bargain section.

5.  Gift Cards. Does your friend shop 'til she drops on Amazon? The perfect gift is at your fingertips. Find out what store they love - department stores, bookstores, small specialty places, health food establishments, movie theaters, and hair/nail salons. Almost everyone offers gift cards.

6.  Food gifts - cookies, small bread loaves, specialty spices all make delightful gifts.

7.  Collect items throughout the year for a basket gift. It doesn't have to be huge or even a basket. Mugs, mason jars, and pretty boxes can work just as well. If you need ideas, check out Pinterest.

Writers and Readers:  What creative ideas do you have for gifts that don't break the bank?

Photo Credit:  Muresan113

Weekend Potpourri - Libraries, Birthdays, Tips, Current Events, and COOKIES!

1.  Jennifer Slattery posts at Seekerville on how to get your books into libraries and bookstores. She gives some excellent suggestions.

2.  Since we're close to the date we celebrate Messiah's birth, this article by Jonathan Cahn, author of The Harbinger, caught my eye. He investigates the actual date of birth, and it's NOT December 25th. This is not to say we can't or shouldn't celebrate on December 25th. In my estimation, we celebrate His advent every day because of the impact it's had on our lives.

3.  Brian Hutchinson, at Positive Writer, gives 36 writing tips. He makes an interesting point that all the excuses we make for not writing are the result of doubt.

4.  I came across this article on World Net Daily about the one-child policy in China. One of the points made is how this contributes to human trafficking and sexual slavery. The situation in China is one of the things that prompted me to use this issue in The Moses Conspiracy.

5.  Do you need some Christmas Cookie Recipes? Check out this site.

Writers:  Do you have a tip for overcoming writer's doubt?

Readers:  What's your favorite Christmas Cookie recipe? Mine is a chocolate/almond cookie cut into various shapes.

Have a blessed weekend!

Photo Credit:  mzillekens

If You Agree to Accept This Mission...

God's love is an endless source of amazement to me. Although He knew Adam and Eve would sin, He still created them and made preparations to rescue mankind.

This plan would require tremendous sacrifice. Instead of walking on streets of gold, the Savior would travel dusty roads. The adoration of angels would be there, but muffled by those seeking to entrap Him with words. Heaven's perfection would give way to suffering humanity.

He had to succeed where Adam failed and fulfill the law as a Spirit-filled man. Jesus would be born free of the curse Adam brought upon us via the virgin birth. A slave can't free a slave. Since the fallen nature is passed down through Adam, God had to be His father.

After they tortured and crucified Him, God raised His sinless Son from the dead after three days. How can anyone doubt God's love? He went to great lengths to obtain forgiveness and new life.

Years ago, I heard an old spiritual that said, "I don't know why Jesus loved me. I don't know why He cared. I don't know why He sacrificed His life. Oh, but I'm glad, so glad He did."

That song often runs through my mind and heart. I can't explain it. I can't understand it, but I'm so grateful God sent His Son.

Photo Credit:  dogmadic

Lots of Decor, but No Context

We hear a lot about generics these days. Everything from prescription drugs to clothing has a no-name brand. The big draw is the lower price tag.

I've discovered another kind of generic: the generic holiday. Decorations adorn stores without the context of its meaning. In one store, the decorations were linked with the word, "dream." Ah yes, dream of those clothes and household items, and put them in your cart.

I'm sad today. I miss the Christmas Carols playing, the Merry Christmas greetings, the warmth of society celebrating one of the singular events in history - the birth of Jesus. We're left with the trappings of a holy-day, stripped bare of its meaning.

As a believer, I've committed to keep things in context. While I enjoy the decor and the fun, I'm in awe of the greatest gift I've ever received: forgiveness and a relationship with the One who created heaven and earth, Jesus Christ.

Writers and Readers: Has "generic holiday" sprung up among your retailers? What are some of the things you miss from past celebrations?

Photo Credit: suzz86

Making Peace With Christmas - Guest Post by Sheila Seiler Lagrand

Sheila Lagrand is a fellow Helping Hands Press author. Welcome, Sheila! Thanks for guest posting here today. 

In my strident youth I was a Christmas militant. I railed against the displays of candy canes and chocolate snowmen lurking about the bags of Halloween candy. I fumed as tinsel mingled with the harvest cornucopia in some kind of mall marketing miscegenation. I averted my eyes when neighbors’ Christmas lights brightened the street before we had celebrated Thanksgiving.

Not this year. Maybe it’s because I’m not as young as I used to be. Maybe it’s because the grandchild count has risen to nine—which means more gifts, more wrapping, more time to dream up selections that say I love you. Maybe it’s because I’m traveling across an ocean to spend Christmas with my daughter, her Navy-Chief husband, and their children on Guam. For all these reasons, I have overcome my Christmas-season-snobbery. Never again, Lord help me, will I judge the mom scooping up the latest Legos in October.

And never again will I jam all the gift-choosing, making, ordering, or buying into the precious few weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. It was a legalistic maneuver all along, I see now, not a decision born of grace and joy. And what is more important at Christmastime than grace and joy? As I consider it today, I can’t even remember why I thought it was such an achievement to exhaust myself by squeezing every bit of preparation into a few short weeks.

After all these hard-line years, it’s been deliciously daring to choose gifts in October, to be laying in stores of red-and-green tissue during the first crisp days of autumn.  Once I committed to changing my approach, and my attitude, about the Christmas schedule, I reaped an unexpected bonus: The rejoicing heart, the sense of blessedness as I reflect on the priceless gift of our Savior, the real key elements to the Christmas season, they kicked in early, too. Instead of three or four weeks of an overflowing heart, I’ve enjoyed the jubilation since late October.

I understand better now the friend who sings carols in March, the heart-sister who displays a Christmas tree all year long. I’ve been cheating myself out of a heap of exultation. So if we cross paths at the beach next summer, please don’t be surprised if I greet you with a hearty “Merry Christmas!” 

You can meet Sheila at http://sheilalagrand.com 

Writers and Readers: When do you start looking for special gifts for Christmas?
 
Photo Credit: greenolive