20 Tips/Editors/Ditch Restrictions/Encouragement/Bad Houseplant

1. For those of you who write non-fiction, Julie Lavender posts at The Write Conversation about 20 Newspaper Writing Tips for 2020.

2.  Jane Friedman gives a comprehensive guide to finding and working with an editor. I hired after checking her out as best I could. We agreed to do a test run to see if we were a good match. I'm happy to say her help was invaluable. While the book has not yet been placed with a publisher, I'm confident that it's in great shape. (In case you're wondering who I hired - Deirdre Lockhart, of Brilliant Cut Editing.)

3.  WND reports on an important lesson learned during this pandemic. It's time to ditch restrictions on health care providers. I never knew about this problem until recently. It's quite an eye-opener.

4.  Nikki Koziarz posts at Encouragement for Today about fighting fear. Considering the prevalence of this in recent months, it's a timely subject.

5.  Over the years, I've grown a variety of houseplants. One of them was the Majesty Palm. It's stunning foliage attracted my attention, but I had no idea how finicky it was about light, temperature and watering requirements. Plant Care Today talks about this palm and gives tips on care. They warn anyone buying one that they're in for a challenge.

Writers:  Do you write non-fiction or fiction? What kind of craft articles would you like to see on here?

Readers:  Which articles I link to are your favorites? Current events, encouragment/devotional or fun stuff?

Photo Credit: Kay Pat

Stay at Home/Debut Author/Re-opening the Economy/Devo/Masks

1.  How are you coping with the "Stay at Home" order? Tammy Karasek posts at The Write Conversation about how to make the most of the time.

2. Barbara Linn Probst posts at Writers in the Storm. She asks the questions, "What makes someone give a debut author a chance?"

3.  I thought it was important for everyone to be aware of the plan to re-open our economy. Breaking Christian News gives a detailed summary of the President's speech.

4.  Martin Wiles posts at The Write Conversation about , "No Body."

5.  I subscribe to the blog, Amish America. They had an interesting story about both Amish and English people producing masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. I think you'll enjoy this article.

Question for Authors/Writers:  Were you surprised by what makes someone pick up and buy a debut author's book? Please share your thoughts.

Question for Readers:  What influences you to pick up a debut author's book?

Photo Credit:  Jamie Brelsford

Hair/Writing Obstacles/Kanye West/Devo/Cookie Recipe

1.  Language is so rich and provides many ways to describe hair. Yes, you read that right. I said, "hair." Writers in the Storm takes a post from their archives and shares it with their readers. Do you need help describing your character's hair? This is a good place to start.

2. Lynn H. Blackburn posts at The Write Conversation about moving past writing obstacles. Wow! She perfectly described what I'm going through right now as I'm in the early stages of my next book. I think this post will help a lot of you who are struggling to find that sweet spot in your writing.

3. Kanye West's acceptance of Jesus as his Savior and Lord has drawn much attention. While some have questioned whether or not he's indeed changed, I think his turning away from crude lyrics and commitment to preach the gospel speaks for itself. Let's rally around him with prayer and love. Check out this article on Faithwire.

4.Do you sometimes think what you're doing in ministry doesn't amount to much? Edie Melson, at The Write Conversation, shares her thoughts on being used by God.

5. While some of my friends get in the Christmas spirit in October, once Thanksgiving passes I'm all in. Yeah, the yearly cookie baking frenzy hits me full force around this time. With that in mind, I checked around for some cookie recipes. Enjoy!

Writers:  Which writing article helped you the most? Please share.

Readers:  When does the whole Christmas season take hold in your house? October? November? December? I'd be interested to see if I'm the only one who gets hit with cookie-baking frenzy. :)

Photo Credit: Kenneth Jones

Book Publishing Trends/Speaking/Illegal Seizure/Devo/Thanksgiving Decor

1.  Know how the book publishing market is trending can provide helpful information to authors (both fiction and non-fiction). Jane Friedman gives an extensive report.

2.  Cathy Fyock posts at The Write Conversation about how to generate more speaking engagements.

3.  WND reports on a major U.S. city facing claims from 35,000 people as a result of confiscating cars, land, and homes without reason.

4.  Rhonda Rhea's humorous devotionals always make me laugh. She recently posted at The Write Conversation, "Persona Non Au  Gratin." What does cheese have to do with it? Hop over there and see.

5.  CountryLiving's website has some cute ideas for Thanksgiving decorations.

Writers:  Do you have a speaking platform? If so, what are some of the ways you get additional gigs?

Readers:  Have your reading tastes changed over the past couple of years? What new genres have you explored?

Photo Credit:  Gabriella Fabbri

Memoir Pitfall/Comfort Zone/Cuba/Devo/Dairy-Free Substitutes

1.  Brenda Miller and Suzanne Paola guest post at Jane Friedman's blog about avoiding a big memoir pitfall. I haven't seen a lot of articles on the subject of memoirs, so I thought I'd share this one.

2.  Edie Melson, at The Write Conversation, talks about how we can step out of our writing comfort zones.

3.  WND reports on how Cuba sentenced a lawyer to jail for representing homeschool parents. This is what Communist/socialist regimes do. Watch out fellow Americans that you don't fall for the rhetoric of those who want to ditch our freedoms for a society (socialistic/godless) that will strip us of everything we cherish.

4.  Max Lucado talks about, "Tender Words to the Tired Heart."

5.  Alexis, at Chemistry Cache, gives information on The Best Dairy-Free Substitutions. When I first learned about my sensitivity to dairy products, it was overwhelming. How do you cook/bake without dairy? I found this site on Pinterest.

Writers:  How do you step out of your writing comfort zone?

Readers:  What are some subjects you'd like to see in our weekly link post? (Example: Recipes, gardening, decor, etc.)

Photo Credit:  Sara Haz-Hassan

Opening Scene/Staying on Track/Supreme Court Judge/Devo/Alternative Housing

1. The hardest part of writing a novel is the opening scene. Janice Hardy, at Writers in the Storm, gives insight regarding this process. The opening scene will either hook a reader or send them running away.

2. The publishing industry can often be frustrating. Martin Wiles posts at The Write Conversation and shares tips on how to stay on track.

3. Supreme Court Judge, Clarence Thomas, speaks out against abortion. See the entire story at Christian Headlines.

4. I enjoyed Rhonda Rhea's post entitled, "No Other Name." Many of us can relate to a Mom or Grandma going through a whole list of names before hitting on  the right one. However, there's  one  name for which there's no substitute.

5.  I came across this blog post on Hip2Save about homes made out of shipping containers. They're an affordable alternative to traditional housing. Right now, they're only available in Texas, but the company plans to expand to other states. (P.S. It's actually on Hip2behome, but I didn't want to mess up the link I'd already inserted.)

Writers:  The opening of any article or novel makes most writers break into a cold sweat. What are some of the ways you craft a great hook?

Readers:  Please share your thoughts on how a first page affects your desire to read the entire article/book.

Photo Credit: Andrew Bierle

Writing Focus/Character Building/Supreme Court/Devo/A Blogger's Thoughts

1.  Edie Melson, at The Write Conversation, gives 7 tips on how to focus your writer's eye.

2.  Zoe M. McCarthy gives such easy-to-follow advice about writing. In this post, she talks about building a protagonist's character.

3.  WND reports that Justice Clarence Thomas (Supreme Court) is urging that "Demonstrably Erroneous Precedents" be overturned.

4.  Fear is a paralyzing, tormenting emotion. Brook Espinoza, at CBN Devotions wrote an excellent devotion on victory over fear.

5.  Linda O'Connell shares pictures of her grands and has some excellent advice for all of us.

Writers:  If you write fiction, how do you build your protagonist's character?

Readers:  Which link was your favorite this week? Please share.

Photo Credit: Erik Dungan

Synopsis/Indie Publishing/Challenge/Devo/Lists

1. The Synopsis. These two seemingly innocent words send most writers running for cover. Bill Ferris, at Writer Unboxed, gives tips on how to produce this document required by publishers. Take a deep breath. You can do this.

2.  Many writers are choosing to Indie Publish their books. Tari Lynn Jewett, at Writers in the Storm, shares 10 Lessons she's learned about Indie Publishing.

3. Evangelist Alveda King, niece of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., challenges the reproductive rights argument as a civil wrong. (Breaking Christian News)

4.  Michael K. Reynolds recounts the story of how he almost died on Mount Whitney. We can learn many lessons through our life experience.

5. I'm a "List Person." It eases the stress of trying to remember all the stuff that has to be done from daily chores to major projects. Unexpectedly Domestic shares on the subject of making lists.

Writers:  What is the worst writing task you face? Why?

Readers:  Which link was your favorite and why?

Photo Credit: Zsuzza N.K.

Backstory/Cliches/Free Speech/Puppies/Cranberry Glass

1.  Writers in the Storm often has thorough articles about the craft, and this is no exception. Piper Bayard tackles the bugaboo of many writers: backstory. She has a unique method for eliminating it.

2.  Zoe M. McCarthy gives One Important Reason to Limit Cliches in Your Stories. My critique partner always said that I loved cliches. It's taken quite a while to break that habit, and a few still appear in my first drafts. This is an excellent article for every writer: newbies to advanced. A refresher never hurt anyone.

3  WND reports on a court case that compromises free speech.

4.  Bonnie Leon talks about how God used her puppy to teach her an important lesson.

5.  Susan, at Writing Straight From The Heart, shared her cranberry glass collection with readers. They are stunning. Then again, most glassware makes my heart skip a beat. I thought you might enjoy this post.

Writers: What kind of craft challenges bother you the most? Backstory? POV? Cliches? Anything else? Please share.

Readers:  Which link was your favorite this week? Why?

Photo Credit:  Rasto Belan

First Draft/Subtext/Great Awakening/Devo/African Violets

1.  Are you stressing out writing your first draft (either fiction or non-fiction)? Beth Vogt posts encouragement at The Write Conversation.

2.  Sarah (Sally) Hamer posts at The Write Conversation. She teaches online with Margie Lawson. In this post, Sally begins a series on writing subtext, that underlying layer in a story. Great stuff! There are links at the end of the post to Parts 2 and 3.

3. Breaking Christian News reports on Dutch Sheets' hope-filled article which originally appeared in Charisma News. There will be a third Great Awakening in our country, but what will the church do with it?

4.  Michael K. Reynolds asks, "Why Don't I Pray?"

5.  African Violets are so beautiful and come in a wide variety of colors. My mother nurtured them when I was growing up, and I guess it rubbed off on me. Getting the plants to bloom can be tricky. I found this website on Pinterest (A Garden For the House) and plan to use their tips. I thought some of you might like this as well.

Writers:  Which is harder for you - first draft or editing? Please share.

Readers:  Do you like raising houseplants? What are some of your favorites?

Photo Credit:  Niels Timmer

Time/Book Cover Design/Christian Airline/Devo/Amish Cleaning Hacks

1.  Lisa Hall-Wilson gives 5 Ways Time Affects How We Write. In deep point of view, we're not supposed to name emotions. However, there are exceptions. She explains the principles involved. I think even non-writers will find this article fascinating since it gives insight on how we process traumatic events.

2.  Carol Ashby posts at Seriously Write about designing book covers that appeal to both men and women. Since many authors are now going the Indie route, they're assuming full responsibility for every aspect of production. Don't miss this valuable advice.

3.  Christian Headlines reports on the world's first Christian airline. They will provide churches and missionaries with easier travel.

4.  "What is a God Adventure?" This devotional on CBN made me think, especially as the new year is fairly young. Check it out.

5.  I came across an item on Pinterest about Amish Cleaning Hacks. Check out some of their tricks for discouraging pests, degreasing, etc.

Writers:  Either fiction or non-fiction - how do you go about designing your book covers?

Readers:  Do you enjoy reading devotionals? What are some of your favorites?

Photo Credit:  Michelle Seixas

Slide Presentations/Copyright Tips/Chick-fil-A/Devo/Amish Declutter Hacks

1.  For those of you who not only write but also speak, Yvonne Ortega gives tips on how to use slides in your presentation.

2.  Susan Spann posted at Writer Unboxed regarding copyrights. While she called it, "Holiday Copyright Tips," the advice is good for any time of the year. Whether you're a writer, blogger, or just post on social media, this is a must read.

3.  Around Christmas, I was searching the gift card rack at my local grocery store for Chick-fil-A and couldn't find them. It's no secret that the fast-food company's values have made them a target of the politically correct segment of the population. WND reports it hasn't hurt them a bit. They have passed Wendy's and Taco Bell in popularity and are now number three in the rankings.

4.  Amy Carroll posted at Crosscards devotional site on the subject of prayer. When the Lord gave her "prayer" as her word for last year, she wondered how she'd ever fit hours on her knees into her busy schedule. See how the Lord led her and the joy she discovered.

5.  The new year stirs an urge in me to declutter. Maybe we can't do it all in one day, but we can spend five minutes a day. One of the suggestions is to start a no-clutter zone.

Writers:  What tips do you have for writers who also speak?

Readers:  Which link resonated with you this week? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Fred Culpers

Incorrect Phrases/Powerful Antagonist/Victory/Devotional/Valentine's Day

1.  Zoe M. McCarthy talks about Incorrect Construction of Common Phrases. This was a fun read. I discovered a few that I've been using wrong.

2.  Having a powerful antagonist in your story is key to challenging your main characters no matter what the genre. Lisa Hall-Wilson gives 9 Tips For a Powerful Antagonist.

3.  Breaking Christian News reports on a victory for several Christian Ministries after a 4-Year Legal Battle regarding abortion.

4.  I've gotten into the habit of going to bed too late. Then I have trouble getting up at 5:00 AM and hit the snooze button: once, twice, ugh - three times. When I saw this article, "Escaping the Power of the Snooze Button," I had to read it. Yeah, it hit me right where I live.

5.  Valentine's Day is around the corner. I saw these cookies on FB and had to share them. Here's the tutorial.

Writers: Which common phrase tripped you up?

Readers:  When reading a book, how important is a strong antagonist to you? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Piotr Koczab

Devastating Choice/Research/Billy Graham/Devo/Recipe

1. Zoe M. McCarthy talks about giving your characters a devastating choice. Either one will forever alter their lives.

2. Are you considering writing historical novels, but the research aspect is stopping you? Carrie Turansky guest posts at Seriously Write and gives her best tips on how to immerse yourself in another time period.

3. In February, Billy Graham, went on to his eternal reward. His life and ministry were characterized by integrity. The word, "scandal," never appeared in relation to either. Breaking Christian News reported on the principles he and his team lived by. They would be excellent guidelines for any minister/ministry.

4.  Lynn J. Simpson posts her thoughts on "an army of trust." She uses II Timothy 1:7 as her main text.

5.  My family and I are big fans of Italian cuisine. When I first tasted bruschetta, I knew I wanted to make this at home. Here's a great recipe from Rachael Ray complete with video. Have you ever made bruschetta? How does this recipe compare with yours? What ingredients/tips would you add to this one?

Writers:  Can you think of a devastating choice you might give your main character? Please share.

Readers:  Do you prefer books that get characters into major trouble without much of a break or do you like one main conflict? Please share your thoughts.

 Photo Credit:  Svilen Milev

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

Built-In or Add-Ons?

Houses that have built-in bookcases or cabinets attract me. They're a permanent part of the architecture. Sure you can add on these things with free-standing items, but there's something special about the seamless construction of built-in units.

We're a lot like houses. God builds into each person certain gifts, so they can fulfill their purpose in life. They're not add-ons or after thoughts. No, they are original construction and essential to the structure. Whether or not we discover our purpose or use those gifts properly, they are part of us.

We recently had a special speaker at church. He'd done numerous things in life, but he always ended up teaching others. He pointed out God put leadership within Joseph. He had charge of Potipher's household, then the prison, and finally the entire nation of Egypt. No matter what you do or where you go, your gifts will help point you to your purpose.

Gifts are not your purpose but rather the equipment to fulfill your destiny. Joseph didn't learn how to lead, it was part of him. Yes, he still had to do the work, but it brought satisfaction and joy.

Throughout my life, writing and teaching have popped up wherever I go. Operating in God's purpose has never been easy. The enemy of our souls will do everything to stop us from succeeding. Paul often became discouraged, but he was following God's plan for his life.

Whether you're a writer or a reader, ask God to show you His plans and purpose. Are you a whiz at organization? Are you an encourager? Does writing seem as important as breathing? He wants you to know why He gave you these gifts.

Writers and Readers:  What are some of the gifts God has built into you?

Photo Credit:  Iraine

Special thanks to Pastor Noel Willis for inspiring this post.

Low-Tech/Pantsers/Judge Alito/Devo/Recipe

1.  Okay, all you writer types out there. Sometimes we get too cerebral and need a dose of humor. Writer Unboxed talks about low-tech tools for writers. Knowing how techy challenged I am, you'll see why I liked this.

2.  Every writer wants to improve their craft, including us pantsers. Lisa Cron guest posts at Writers in the Storm with rare advice for those who aren't plotters.

3.  Breaking Christian News reports on Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito's speech urging Christians to "evangelize" for religious freedom.

4.  Adelee Russell, at Rewritten, talks about waking up to grace. If you've ever struggled with condemnation, this is a must read.

5.  Would you like to make something special for Mom? Check out Mom's Chocolate Pudding at the Food Network. Rated: Easy

Writers:  Are you techy-challenged or techy-savvy? Please share.

Readers:  Are you making something special for Mother's Day? Please share.

Immersive POV/Definition/Lists/Devo/Photography

1.   We've all heard of Point-of-View (POV) and Deep POV, but Immersive POV? Donald Maas posts at Writer Unboxed on the subject.

2.   Donn Taylor posts at Author Culture on Writers and the Power of Definition. When talking or writing about any subject, how we define our terms is critical to communicating our worldview.

3.  There are all kinds of lists: Bestseller lists, Best Looking Person lists, but there's one list a nation should never be on: The Persecuting Nations List. For the first time since it started, the United States is on that list. Hopefully, it will be temporary. Read the article here.

4.  Adelee Russell, of Rewritten, allows us into her thought processes and her heart. The revelation she received of God's love for her and the freedom we have in Christ is life changing.

5.  If you enjoy beautiful photography, check out A New England Life. I'm a visual person and find much inspiration in pictures. (It's why I love Pinterest.)

Writers:  Did you know what "Immersive POV" was? What did you think of the article?

Readers:  If you're a blogger, what inspires you?

Photo Credit:  Jean Scheijen

Advanced Tips/Dialect/Free Speech/Loneliness/Winter Safety

1.  Laura Drake, at Writers in the Storm, gives some advanced writing tips. Her examples help illustrate what she's teaching. It's an article that you might want to bookmark and reread more than a few times.

2.  At one time or another, every writer wants to communicate the dialect/accent of their characters. Chip MacGregor, of MacGregor Literary, talks about writing effective dialogue without distracting your readers.

3.  Public universities are designating areas as, "free speech zones." Not long ago, students were threatened with arrest over a beach ball with a message. Our freedoms are under attack. Raising awareness is the first step toward protecting them.

4.  Dr. MaryAnn Diorio wrote an excellent blog post on how to get free of the secret sorrow of loneliness.

5.  Winter Safety Tips from Weather.com. Did you know floor mats could get you out of a dangerous situation? Veggies are not only good to eat but can fight frost on your car.

Writers:  What was your favorite tip on writing dialect/accents? Please share.

Readers:  Dr. MaryAnn Diorio made several points about loneliness. Which one spoke to your heart and why?

Photo Credit:  Jyn Meyers

Melodrama/Roots/Baal/Devo/Recipe

1.  Years ago, I read a book that was supposed to be Sci-Fi/suspense. Instead, the characters came off as unrealistic and melodramatic, giving them a cartoonish appearance. Zoe M. McCarthy deals with the subject of melodrama.

2.  Dave King, at Writer Unboxed, talks about giving your characters roots. This resonated with me since I'm a transplant from New York City to Pennsylvania. Check out this fascinating way to give your story some punch.

3. This news item made me want to wail and mourn. Christian Headlines reports on NY city's plans to go forward building the arch of Baal. In the Old Testament, the nation of Israel brought the judgment of God down on their heads by worshipping the Baals.

4. Alisa Hope Wagner, at Faith Imagined, does a verse meditation on 2 Timothy 2:8-9. Though the writer was in chains, the Word of God is never chained.

5.  There's a chill in the air, and baking cookies is on my mind. I saw this recipe for Almond Joy Cookies on Facebook. There's only four ingredients. Here's the original link to the recipe.

Writers:  What are some ways you can inject conflict/interest in your story by focusing on regional differences? Are there some instances in your own life that might prove useful? Please share.

Readers:  Do you enjoy reading books with an outsider coming into an area and causing conflict/misunderstanding? Please share an example.

Photo Credit:  Francisco Ramos