Descriptive Writing/Motivation/Your Rights/Devo/Adjustments

1. Jean Fischer posts on "How to Use the Bible to Practice Descriptive Writing."

2. Jean Fischer does it again with "5 Ways to Push Forward When Your Head Says Stop." If you're having difficulty staying motivated, hop over there and read this post.

3.  Principal Bans Teacher From Church Event where Students Will Be Present. Yes, this is happening in the United States. The lesson here is don't be afraid to stand up for your rights.

4. Eva Marie Everson talks about, "Dipping the Quill Deeper: Developing The Devotional Life."

5.  Jeanette Levellie shares an interesting experience about adjusting from a big city to a rural environment. I thought you might enjoy this short piece.

Writers:  What actions do you take to stay motivated to write?

Readers:  What kind of links spark your interest the most? Recipes? Devotionals? Home Decor? Reading related posts? Other? Please share. This blog is all about writers and readers. Your opinion matters. :)

Photo Credit:  Adem Kaya

Families in Fiction/Marketing Poetry/Answered Prayer/Devo/Most Searched

1.  Kathleen McCleary posts at Writer Unboxed on the subject of "Navigating Families in Fiction. In real life, we all experience loss, have difficult relationships, etc. This is something every novelist can apply to their writing.

2.  Karen Whiting, at The Write Conversation, talks about marketing your poetry. She has some unique ideas.

3.  Testimonies of answered prayer encourage and spark our faith. I recently read about a young girl diagnosed with an inoperable, cancerous brain tumor on Faithwire. The prognosis was grim, but God...

4.  Jean Fischer shared her experience with hearing God's voice on her Compost Pile blog. This sweet story touched my heart. I hope it blesses you as well.

5.  Last Thanksgiving, I discovered pecan pie, and I've craved it since that day. I wasn't surprised when it came up as one of the most-searched recipes of 2018 on Google. Check out this post at Delish and see what other meals made the list.

Writers:  How do you explore the complex relationships of your characters?

Readers:  How does reading testimonies or novels impact your spiritual life? Please share.

Photo Credit:  B S K

Writing Habit/Consistency/South and North Korea/Facing Fears/Author Homes

1.  Jennifer Blanchard, at Positive Writer, gives 9 Ways to Create a Rock Solid Writing Habit. I particularly liked how she gave practical and thought-provoking advice on how to get started and how to stay the course.

2.  Jim Dempsey guest posts at Writer Unboxed on, "Keep Your Characters Consistent." I enjoy articles like this because they challenge me as a writer.

3.  Christian Headlines reports on the recent meetings between South and North Korea have raised hopes that conditions will improve for North Korean believers. Let's all pray for our brothers and sisters in that country.

4.  Tim Suddeth, at The Write Conversation, talks about the fears we face as writers. It can easily translate into any other occupation. I loved this particular line, "In each of our lives, we are going to face new twists and turns that we can call either fears or opportunities."

5.  Jean Fischer, at Something to Write Home About, shares pictures and a blurb about the homes of famous authors. It was fun to see where Laura Ingalls Wilder and Louisa May Alcott wrote their stories.

Writers:  How did you establish your writing habit?

Readers: Which of the author homes did you like the best? While not my favorite home, Edgar Allen Poe's house brought back fond memories. My grandmother and mother would take me on walks to Poe Park. I always had to check out his tiny home.

Photo Credit:  Kym Parry

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

Interview Questions/Freelance Writing/Facebook Bias/Risky Love/Recipe

1.  Have you ever wondered what to ask an author during an interview? Laurel Garver gives 50 Fabulous Questions to Ask an Author.

2.  Do you want to be a freelance writer and work from home? Jean Fischer gives us a peek at what it's like and what's expected.

3.  Breaking Christian News shares a story from CBN about a Christian Mommy Blogger. Facebook apologized for deleting one of her posts, but now she's helping other bloggers deal with the bias against Christian viewpoints.

4.  Amy Menter guests posts at Maria Morgan's blog about The Direction of Love. Is it worth the risk?

5.  Chocolate Almond Biscotti - just saying that phrase makes me want to try making these yummy cookies. (It didn't hurt that the recipe said "Easy.")

Writers:  What are some of your favorite interview questions?

Readers:  What kind of information do you like to know about your favorite authors?

Photo Credit:  Kerem Yucel

Controversy/Inner Dialogue/Genocide/Legal/Freelance

1.  There's a lot of controversy in the Christian publishing community over how far writers can push the boundaries when it comes to profanity, sexual content, and violence. Bruce Brady, at The Write Conversation, tackles this subject head-on.

2.  Zoe M. McCarthy talks about writing inner dialogue that speaks to the reader. As always, her posts are mini-workshops.

3.  Christian Headlines reports that few Christian Syrians are obtaining refugee status despite the declaration that ISIS is committing genocide.

4.  Jennifer, at Pen and Prosper, points out 3 legal issues that can enhance your blogging.

5.  Jean Fischer always writes informative posts. Here she does a Q&A on 11 Questions You Shouldn't Ask A Freelance Writer.

Writers:  What's your opinion on pushing the boundaries in Christian Fiction?

Readers:  Do you read only Christian Fiction? How do you feel about authors wanting to add more realism to their stories?

Photo Credit:  Simon Gurney

Flat Characters/Instagram/Life/Wild Office Designs/Recipe

1.  Are your characters flatter than the paper they appear on? Zoe M. McCarthy gives five easy techniques to bulk them up.

2.  Sierra Godfrey Fong guest posts on Writers In The Storm and gives us the basics on Instagram. I knew next to nothing about this social media platform, so her article helped educate me. Will I join? Hmm, I'll have to think about it.

3.  I had to share this! Scientists are now saying that life begins at conception. Check out this article at Live Action News.

4.  Jean Fischer, at Something to Write Home About, posted some wild office designs. You'll get a chuckle out of these.

5.  For all you dessert lovers, I came across this recipe for Chocolate-Strawberry Truffles. Now, there's a winning combination and only 3 ingredients!

Writers:  Have you tried Instagram? Please share your experience with me. I'm weighing whether or not to add it to my social media toolbox.

Readers:  Do you cut out recipes and actually make them? Please share. I confess - most of the ones I stash in a binder never make it to my table.

Photo Credit:  Baron Patro

Motivation/Self-Pub/Edit/Prepare/Crockpot

1.  Jean Fischer blogs about Motivation Hacks for Writers. I need to get back to work. My "vacation" has stretched into several months.

2.  Self-publishing Review gives us the skinny on Amazon's review policy. While there are some big no-no's, there are plenty of ways to get honest reviews. One major point - a review without a verified purchase will raise a red flag.

3.  Laura Drake, at Writers in the Storm Blog, gives us a lesson on The Most Important Edit That No One  Talks About. She's right. I can count on one hand the number of blog posts I've seen on this subject.

4.  Someone once said that the premise of The Moses Conspiracy could never happen here in America. I beg to differ. Check out this article where a pastor warns Christians to prepare for persecution.

5.  I love crockpot cooking! A friend posted this website on Facebook, and I thought you might be interested in 100 Days of Meal Plans Whole Foods Style.\

Writers:  We're all familiar with line edits where we correct grammar, spelling, typos, etc. Have you ever done a substantive edit? If so, please share your experience.

Readers: Are you a fan of crockpot cooking? What kind of things do you make in your crockpot?

Photo Credit:  Svilen Milev

Conflict/Role Models/Late Bloomers/Religion/Content Editing

1.  Piper Bayard guest posts at Writers in the Storm. She explores the layers of conflict in your story. We all know that without tension, a story falls flat. If you want some ideas on how to incorporate this element into your manuscript, this is an excellent place to start.

2.  Sara Goff guest posts at Everyone's Story. I love this quote: "You might be surprised to discover that while pursuing your own goals, you are also being a role model to others. Hang in there!" You never know how your example of perseverance is encouraging others whether you're a writer or involved in some other endeavor.

3.  Are you a late bloomer? I am. Susan Panzica, at Eternity Cafe, shares her inspirational story.

4.  While Christianity and the Bible have been kicked out of public schools, guess what religion is being promoted instead? WND reports on the indoctrination of our children.

5.  Editing - a word that makes my nose wrinkle and a shiver go down my spine. A lot of writers say it's their favorite part of writing. Jean Fischer takes the mystique out of one form of editing: the Content Edit. Half the battle is knowing what to look for and how to make the necessary corrections. Thanks, Jean!

Writers and Readers: Who was your most influential role model? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Sigurd Decroos

Foreign Sales/FRC/Edits/Influence/Spoonerisms

1.  Lori Nelson Spielman, at Writers in the Storm, talks about what foreign book sales taught her. While her sales in some markets were great, in others they were poor or mediocre.

2.  The Family Research Council reports on the latest developments in the Planned Parenthood scandal. There's a link to a petition, as well as information I haven't seen previously.

3.  Zoe M. McCarthy posted a Quick Guide on the Type of Edit You Need for Your Novel. Since I'm at that stage with my fifth book, I appreciated this information.

4.  I loved this repost by Carol Garvin. She shares about how one of her first grade students grew up to be an astronaut.

5.  Jean Fischer, at Something to Write Home About, posted on "Spoonerisms." You don't know what they are? Neither did I until I read this - very entertaining.

Writers:  Have you ever worked with a professional editor? What type of edit did you get?

Readers:  What was your favorite "Spoonerism?" Can you add any to the list? Please share.

Photo Credit: Lize Rixt

Publishing/Twitter/Spies/Help/Writing Slumps

1.  Jim Hart, of Hartline Literary Agency, gives an encouraging word for uncertain times in the Christian publishing industry.

2.  Whether you're an author or in some other business, here's a great article by Annie, at Writer Unboxed, on the line between self-promotion and spam on Twitter.

3.  WND reports on the creepy world of spy devices in your home. Sweetie Mom recently needed a TV, and we made sure the one we bought wasn't a "Smart" version.

4.  Author Jody Hedlund talks about the benefits of having a Virtual Assistant. No, you don't have to be independently wealthy to hire one. Check out her article.

5.  Jean Fischer, at Something to Write Home About, gives five ways to break out of a writer's slump. I think this could work for any creative endeavor.

Writers:  What are some ways you break out of a writing slump?

Readers:  Do you hang out on Twitter? What are some of your pet peeves?

Photo Credit:  svilen001

Protecting Computer/Write/Sweden/You Know You're.../Collections

1.  The Blogging Bistro gives important tips and links on how to protect your computer during a disaster. This is a post you'll want to mark as a Favorite.

2.  Henry McLaughlin guest posts at The Write Conversation. Have you ever heard the term, "Write what you know?" He turns the saying around to, "Know what you write." This article has some good storytelling basics.

3.  WND reports on a mandate in Sweden that could spread to other countries. Doctors and midwives would be required to perform abortions with no allowance for their conscience.

I've been around awhile and noticed something. When we compromise in one area, it emboldens those determined to promote evil to push for more.

4.  Jean Fischer, at Something To Write Home About, did a fun post, "You Know You're a Writer When..." Check it out and add your two cents in the comments.

5.  One of the delights of blogging is I can enjoy other people's collections. Martha, at Martha's Favorites, shares some her teacups. Would you believe she's on #273???

Writers:  Complete this sentence: "You know you're a writer..."

Readers:  What kind of collectibles do you enjoying looking at on the Internet? Do they ever inspire you to become a collector?

Photo Credit:  Susan J. Reinhardt

Tips/Freedom/Blogging/Covers/Potatoes

 

1.  David Bruns guest posts at Writer Unboxed. He gives 6 Writing Techniques he learned at Storymasters, which was taught by Chris Vogler, James Scott Bell, and Donald Maas.

2.  I like to keep updated on religious freedom issues. One of my go-to organizations is The Family Research Council. In a recent email, they reported on infringements to religious liberty ranging from the military to a little girl being told she couldn't mention God or scripture in her homework because of government policy.

3.  Edie Melson, at The Write Conversation, talks about the top blogging mistakes made by authors. I think this has value whether you're an author or not.

4.  The title of this post intrigued me, and although it was long, I finished the whole thing. We all know book covers can make or break our masterpieces. Check out this story at Working Writers and Bloggers, by Nicolette Pierce.

5.  Jean Fischer, at Something to Write Home About, shares how a potato launched her writing career.

Writers:  How did you discover you were a writer?

Readers:  Do book covers influence your buying decisions? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Krappweis

Helping Hands - Part 2

Here they are in alphabetical order!

First, we have Jean Fischer, a talented Author and Freelance Writer. We met on Facebook and clicked immediately. Jean is one of my critique partners, and she's dynamite at fixing computer/software problems. Having sat in the editor's chair, her advice on the publishing process always hits the target. She's also a tender-hearted friend, fellow Pinterest enthusiast, and shares many of my hobbies. I hope we meet in person someday. 

Karen Lange and I met online through a mutual friend, Mary Ann Diorio. She's an online writing teacher, blogger, and aspiring author. We get along so famously that we're collaborating on a book project. She's part of the critique trio you see here, and I value her suggestions and wisdom. We haven't met in person yet, but we're working on it. We've become fast friends, and I can't imagine not having her in my life.

Jeanette Levellie and I met through blogging. This multi-talented lady is an author, speaker, blogger, and vocalist. Her insightful humor has delighted thousands. We've had the privilege of meeting in person for a conference, and our friendship has been a huge blessing in my life. Jen truly walks the walk, as well as talking the talk. I doubt if my book would be in such good shape without her editing skills.

I'm so grateful for these dear friends. God blessed me with these kind, godly women, all experts in their own right. They've not only enriched my writing, but also my personal walk with the Lord.

Writers and Readers: Besides family, who has supported your dreams and goals? Have you made meaningful connections through Social Media?

The Blog Tour Stops Here Today:    The Writer's Alley 

Have a fabulous weekend!

To Pin or Not to Pin

With all the social media sites out there, how do you decide which ones will be fun and effective, but not take up every waking moment of your life?

1) Recommendations from friends

My friend, Miriam, dragged me onto Facebook. I'm glad I listened to her because I've connected with family and friends. It's a quick way to communicate important news flashes, prayer requests, and share pictures.

While blogging is still my favorite venue, Facebook has added another dimension to the relationships planted there.

2)  What are bloggers saying about the site?

I'd say I first heard of Pinterest about 2 years ago. (Yeah, I'm a little slow jumping onto new trends.) It seemed like everyone was talking about it in the blogosphere.

Another friend, Jean Fischer, is on top of technology and wrote a post about Pinterest. By this time, curiosity was building like steam in a pressure cooker. Oh, did I mention that I met Jean on Facebook?

3)  What kind of social media sites are recommended by publishers?

Helping Hands Press, my publisher, is super big on social media. Pinterest, Facebook, Goodreads, and Twitter are on the top of their list. I signed the contract, and added Pinterest and Goodreads to my daily rounds.

I love magazines and have clipped recipes and articles over the years. Pinterest is a virtual bulletin board. I can "pin" items I like on my boards for future reference. Right now, I'm collecting gardening tips. When the weather turns balmy, I'm ready to plant my flowers and veggies.

New connections are being forged with people, who might not venture near my blog or become a Facebook friend. The best part: I'm enjoying the ride.

Writers: How did you select the social media sites you frequent?

Readers: What draws you to Facebook or Pinterest?

The Blog Tour Stops Here Today:  Diane Estrella 
                                                           Cecelia Lester

Photo Credit:  OeilDeNuit

Friday Round-Up - #225

My good friend, Jean Fischer, gives a primer on Pinterest. She's even got me interested,  and you know how resistant I am to adding more social media to my plate!

Writers: Have you tried Pinterest? Please share your experience.

Readers: What kinds of Pinterest boards attract your attention?

Have a blessed weekend!

Friday Round-Up - #206

Do deadlines tie your stomach in knots? Jean Fischer, at Something to Write Home About, gives five tips for meeting deadlines stress free.

Writers: What tips can you offer?

Readers: We all have those beat-the-clock days. How do you stay sane?

Have a blessed weekend!


Photo: hisks

Friday Round-Up - #198

Earlier in the week, I mentioned attending the New York World's Fair. One of the venues matched young people with penpals in other countries. My penpal came from England. Today, we can write to people all over the planet with the touch of a button.

Jean Fischer, at Something To Write About, takes the mystery out of Facebook, including the new Facebook Timeline. She also gives information on setting up an Author Page.

Writers: Have you set up an Author Page yet? Please share your experience.

Readers: Did you ever have a penpal growing up? I mean the kind where you actually hand wrote letters. Where did they live?

Friday Round-Up - #194

Jean Fischer, at The Walrus and The Carpenter, gives 5 ways to polish your word weaving skills.

Writers: Do you have any fun ways to improve your writing? Please share.

Readers: What types of word games do you enjoy? Puzzles, Word Search, etc.?

I like the Word Search puzzles. It stretches my brain to look for words in odd configurations.

Have a blessed weekend!

Friday Round-Up - #172

Jean Fischer, over at In The Compost Pile, blogs on the colors of heaven. She also gives her impressions of several books about our home country. :)


Have a blessed weekend!

Photo credit: BA969 - The Stock Exchange