Writing Break?/Caregiving/Banned!/Devo/Fall Veggies

1.  Have you taken a long writing break? I don't mean a week or two or even a month. I'm talking about a year or more. Whatever happened to get you off track, it's tough to get back into the groove. This article at Write by the Sea on how to start writing again will give you some ideas.

2.  Tim Suddeth, at The Write Conversation, gives advice to writers who are also caregivers.  

3.  Faithwire reports on how Apple News banned pro-life outlet for showing intolerance without any explanation. It's becoming more and more obvious that social media giants are censoring conservative news content.

4.  Jeanette Levellie posts on the subject of Trading Places or Problems.

5.  Do you think it's too late to plant veggies in September? Check out this post at Garden Therapy for speedy fall vegetables.

Writers:  Are you a caregiver and also a writer? How do you balance the two?

Readers:  What are your favorite fall activities?

Photo Credit:  Eduardo Schafer

Author Interview with Jeanette Levellie

Let's give Jeanette Levellie a warm Christian Writer/Reader Connection welcome! Her new book, "Hello, Beautiful," released on April 2nd.

1.  Hi, Jen! It's so good to have you with us today. How did you and Beth Gormong come up with the idea for this book?

Jen:  I made some magnets as prizes for a game I led at a weight loss club I attended. They had various encouraging sayings on them. One was, "Hello, Beautiful!" None of the ladies took one! I wondered what was wrng with them that they couldn't say, "You are beautiful" to themselves. Then I noticed I'd not put one up on my own fridge. I realized this was a universal issue, even with Christian women. We have a hard time thinking we are capable, worth of love, and valuable.

2.  How did the two of you meet?

Jen:  We met at a writers critique group and later became prayer partners as well.

3.  After authoring books alone, how did co-writing a book work for you?

Jen:  I loved it! All the pressure and deadlines are shared with another person, and we, of course, prayed for each other and the project throughout the year-long process.

4.  The whole idea of an interactive journal appeals to me. Why did you choose this format?

Jen:  That was Beth's idea. She is 18 years younger than I am, so she's more in touch with what younger women like. She said that journaling is a "thing" now. And everyone loves coloring pages! Beth designed those, by the way.

5.  What other books have you written? Can you share a bit about them?

Jen:  Two Scoops of Grace with Chuckles on Top, my best seller, is a humorous devotional focusing on God's bottomless heart of grace. Comical drawings from my son, Ron, accompany nine of the chapters.

The Heart of Humor is the opposite approach to Scoops, containing humor stories with a bit of devotion sprinkled in. It also features articles and lists of how humor helps us stay healthy, and 22 drawings by Ron.

Touchable God has 25 personal stories about how I developed friendship with God through talking to him. The final 20 chapters are actual prayers for friends in crisis.

Here are the links for all of my books:

Sccops of Grace:  http://amzn.to/2e5qOjl
The Heart of Humor:  https://amzn.to/2I.DX5b8
Touchable God:  http://bit.ly/2aNFaS0
Hello, Beautiful!:  https://amzn.to/2V9Mb3B

My website:  www.jeanettelevellie.com

6.  How would you describe yourself to someone wo has never met you?

Jen:  I am a spunky, redheaded pastor's wife with 35 years of publishing credits and 20 years' speaking experience. My God-given knack for finding humor in the mundane ad grace in the storms, delights readers and audiences in all walks of life. My hobbies include gardening, reading, watching movies older than me, and spoiling my three grandkids and two cats.

Thanks so much for visiting with us today, Jen. It was fascinating to get a behind-the-scenes view of how, "Hello, Beautiful," was written. May the Lord bless the women who read your book and help them to see how beautiful they are in His eyes.

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

Interview and Giveaway! Jeanette Levellie and The Heart of Humor

Usually, I focus on fiction, but today, Jeanette Levellie is visiting Christian Writer/Reader Connection with her book, "The Heart of Humor."

Check out the giveaway details at the end of this post.

1.  Susan: You have several books to your credit. When and how did the desire to write take root in your heart?

As a child I loved to make books by writing stories and "binding" them with a cardboard cover. When I was in my twenties, I had several poems and a couple of articles published, then set aside that desire to focus on homeschooling my kids. When they were teenagers, I began writing for publication again.

At a Christian writers conference in 2009 I realized I wanted to make a career of writing. When I told the Lord that, He replied, "You can't do this by yourself." That was five books ago, and He's been faithful to bring a boatload of friends - including you - to help me navigate this wild ride!

Susan: Thanks, Jen. I don't know what I'd do without my writer buddies.

2.  Susan:  What was the most exciting part of your writing journey?

When I got my first book contract in 2011 for Two Scoops of Grace with Chuckles on Top. Although I've published three books since then and finished another, that first baby sent me over the moon with joy.

Susan: I fully understand. The Moses Conspiracy had the same effect on me.

3.  Susan:  What was the most challenging part of the journey so far?

Keeping my eyes on Jesus and His call on my life to show His grace and be a servant, rather than focusing on the publishing, marketing, and platform building side of writing.

Susan: There are many distractions to keep us from writing for our Audience of One.

4.  Susan:  If you had it to do over again, what would you do differently?

Relax more, stress less, laugh and pray more. In spite of the fact that I write inspirational humor, I often take myself too seriously. God's not worried about the world; He's got a sure and happy plan for those who belong to Him. I need to rest in His love more.

Susan: I'm right there with you, Jen.

5.  Susan:  Last, but not least, do you have any advice for non-fiction writers?

But of course! A redhead is always ready with advice, whether she's familiar with the topic or not!

• Ask God to help you every step of the way with divine wisdom. He's been around awhile and knows everything. He will show you the perfect path for your book and your career if you take time to listen.
• If you don't already have a few prayer partners that you meet with regularly, get some now. As these trusted friends for advice and prayer covering, and also pray for their  needs. 
• Read similar books in the genre you write to see what works and what doesn't.
• Don't take yourself and all the little details that go along with your book-cover art, title, back cover blurb, etc.-too seriously. Don't ask me how I know this. That's a whole new interview!

Susan:  As always, you hit the target with your advice. It's so easy to stress out in this profession.

GIVEAWAY TIME! Jen has generously offered to give away one print copy of The Heart of Humor  to one commenter. The giveaway is open to U.S. residents. You must provide your email address in your comment, so we can contact you. The deadline for entering is Friday, August 31st. Jen will draw a name from the entries, and the winner will be announced on Monday, September 3.

You can connect with Jen at the following social media links:

"One little kind word makes a huge impact. Will you be the sunlight in someone's darkness today?" 

Touchable God: Finding the Lord's Friendship Through Prayer

Shock the Clock: Time-Management for Writers and Other Creatives 

Two Scoops of Grace with Chuckles on Top, a humorous devotional

The Heart of Humor: 60 Helpings of Hilarity to Nourish Your Soul

www.jeanettelevellie.com

http://on.fb.me/1P766rm

Characters/Writing Goals/Confiscated/Memorizing/Flowers

1.  Character development has a strong impact on dialogue. Chip MacGregor, at MacGregor Literary, gives tips on developing character voice.

2.  We're not too far off from the beginning of the year. Are you accomplishing your writing goals? I came across an article on Positive Writer on One Goal to be a Brilliant, Accomplished Writer (Are You Ready?) Be forewarned this isn't a Christian site, and he uses the term, "mantra," quite often. (Otherwise, it's okay - no profanity.)

3.  Christian Headlines reports on a Church Retreat Center being confiscated by the Iranian government.

4.  Jeanette Levellie, at Hope Splashes, shares 5 Ways Memorizing Scripture Can Enrich Your Life.

5.  Are you looking forward to spring as much as I am? Last year, I got such a late start on my garden. After I broke my wrist, it was impossible to finish. I've promised myself that I won't procrastinate in 2017. Here's a site to give you some inspiration.

Writers:  How do you make your characters different from each other in terms of personality?

Readers:  Are you longing for spring? Do you have a color palette in mind for this year's garden?

Photo Credit:  Filip George

Guest Blog - When You Are Worried by Jeanette Levellie

Worry dogs us all. The famous and obscure; the wealthy and the indigent; youth and the elderly—few have mastered the secret of casting all their cares on the Lord and leaving them in his hands. Yet it can be done.

            With the Holy Spirit’s help and the prayers of a good friend, we can learn to rest in the Lord during fearful times. I hope you’ll consider me that friend today as you read the words of this prayer. I hope it will encourage you on your journey to touch God.

When You Are Worried

Lord, my friend is not only worried; she’s also mad at herself for worrying. She knows You’ve promised never to leave her or forsake her. Yet she frets and agonizes over everything, from what she imagines people think of her to the threat of cancer.

Her worries torment her, slithering at her feet and perching on her shoulders, hissing dark thoughts and cackling what-ifs. Very real what-ifs, Lord, or she would dismiss them as foolish.

Yet they are not more real than Your love for her, Your care for her. For You are her Good Shepherd.

Please reassure her that, should she entangle herself in the thorn bush of troubles or sickness, You will remove every thorn, pull her free, and carry her on Your shoulders to safety.

Convince her that if someone else should trick her into wandering from the path You’ve planned for her, if she should get lost and be unable to hear You call, You would search for her until You found her and brought her home.

Should a star fall from the sky and burn her, You would heal her. Should she jump to catch a star and fall down, You would bandage her bruises, pick her up, and help her stand.

Let her know that she is never far from Your help. Every beat of Your heart is for her; Your every breath is to see her prosper and be protected. You never abandon Your sheep. Never. Even when it seems You have walked away, You are still right there beside her, cherishing her, holding her close to Your heart.

Encourage my friend to doubt her worries and to believe Your love instead. Let her hear Your sweetest song that sings to her troubled soul, “I love you always, even to the end. I will never stop loving you. You are Mine, and I am yours. All will be well.”

In Jesus’ name, so be it.

References to Scripture: Hebrews 13:5; 1 Peter 5:7, John 10; Luke 15:3–7;

1 John 4:18

The above prayer is an excerpt from Jeanette Levellie’s newest book Touchable God: Finding the Lord’s Friendship Through Prayer.

“Every Christian longs for an intimate walk with the Lord, talking openly with their Heavenly Father and hearing from Him. Touchable God addresses this longing, helping you find a joy-filled relationship with the Lord instead of a joyless religion. In Section I Jeanette shares stories from her own journey in prayer. Written in her warm and casual style, these candid glimpses into Jeanette's tests and trials will help you believe the Lord's willingness to be involved in every area of your life. Section II consists of Jeanette's bold, often poetic prayers for friends in crisis. You need answers, and the Scripturally-based prayers will help you approach God's throne to find them. Touchable God gives caring friends, family members, and ministry leaders specific prayers for others' needs and guides you in praying for yourself during crises.”

  

A spunky pastor’s wife of forty plus years, Jeanette Levellie has published four books and hundreds of articles, greeting card verses, stories and calendar poems. She authors a weekly humor/inspirational column in her local newspaper, and enjoys speaking to church and civic groups, offering hope and humor in every message. She is the mother of two, grandmother of three, and waitress to several cats. Find her blog, Hope Splashes, at http://jeanettelevellie.blogspot.com

Disclaimer:  I endorsed this book but didn't receive any payment for the recommendation or this post. 

Writers and Readers: How do you deal with worry?

Cliches/Dialogue/Free Speech/Hope/Devo

1.  I confess. I like cliches, and my critique partners and editor are always pointing them out. When I saw this post on Writer Unboxed, my reaction was, "YES!" Jo Eberhardt doesn't advocate drowning our readers in these devices, but used sparingly, they can save a lot of writing. Check out, "In Defense of Cliches."  (Notes: This is not a Christian site.)

2.  Writing dialogue is one of my favorite aspects of writing, but it can be tricky. Amy Sue Nathan guest posts at Writers In The Storm on fine tuning your dialogue.

3.  California is trying to pass a law fining and even arresting those who do investigative reporting. This includes bloggers and websites that report/show/tweet these stories. The video footage on Planned Parenthood was so devastating that efforts to silence those exposing the horrors ignore the foundation of free speech.

4.  Whether you're a writer or a reader, Gail Kittleson's guest post at Elaine Stock's blog will resonate with you. Choose hope.

5.  Jeanette Levellie shares her experience, and declares, "So, this is what hell feels like."

Writers:  Do you like cliches? Please share your struggles with erasing them from your writing.

Readers:  How do you maintain your hope level?

Photo Credit:  Colin Cochrane

Time Thieves/5 Common Mistakes/Nat'l Day of Prayer/Milestones/Comparison

1.  Edie Melson, at The Write Conversation, talks about an issue common to all of us - time thieves. What actions are robbing you of your time?

2.  Jerry B. Jenkins talks about The 5 Most Common Mistakes in Beginners' Manuscripts. This is a must-read for newbies and a great refresher for the more advanced writer.

3.  Jonathan Cahn Opens National Day of Prayer With Prophetic Warning. Powerful. Only a revival will save this nation.

4.  Jeanette Levellie, at Hope Splashes, talks about milestone birthdays.

5.  Susan Panzica, at Eternity Cafe, talks about, The Comparison Thief." It's short, but packs quite a punch.

Writers:  Did Edie Melson's list ring an "uh-oh" bell? Please share.

Readers:  Have you had any tough milestone birthdays? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Brad Harrison

Helping Authors/Deep Edit/Prayer/Devo/Introverts

1.  Penny Sansevieri gives 5 Quick Ways to Help Your Favorite Author.

2.  Margie Lawson does a deep edit of Susan Donovan's prologue at Writers In The Storm. Wow! This emphasizes the importance of word choice. It's a great piece on writing craft.

3. I love hearing testimonies about how God moved in a person's life. Christianheadlines.com shares how a pastor and his wife prayed for a boy hit by a truck.

4. We all have "one of those days" from time to time. Dena Netherton talks about her own day and how it led to a pity party. I thought her suggestion at the end was great, and I pray the Lord will remind me to do this on a regular basis.

5.  Jeanette Levellie gives tips on how to relate to an introvert. She plans to do a similar post on extroverts. I can't wait. :)

Writers:  What was your favorite part of Margie Lawson's deep edit of Susan Donovan's prologue? Why?

Readers:  Are you or someone you love an introvert? Which tip spoke to you the most?

Photo Credit:  Matthew Bowden

 

Setting/Publishing Rights/Skinny Genes/News/Clutter Hypocrite

1.  Dena Netherton uses her stage experience to talk about setting in our writing. Her examples are spot on.

2.  Every aspiring writer dreams of getting "the call." While it's an emotional rush after years perfecting our writing, signing a contract is serious business. This advice also apples to self-publishing contracts. Susan Spann guest posts at Writers in the Storm about what rights a publisher really needs.

3.  FRC Action sent me an email entitled, "The Skinny on Genes." (Now, there's a lesson in attention-grabbing headlines.) We've heard a lot about GMO's in relation to our food, but what if they started genetically engineering people?

4.  Writer Unboxed reports on what's new in the digital publishing industry.

5.  Jeanette Levellie writes with her usual tongue-in-cheek style about being a "clutter hypocrite."

Writers:  Do you enjoy creating a stage for your characters? What are some of the things you take into consideration?

Readers:  Do you collect a lot of books? How do you keep any kind of collection from taking over your house?

Photo Credit:  Anonymous

Alzheimers/Amazon/Denmark/Jerry B. Jenkins/Weak Words

1. Jeanette Levellie, at Hope Splashes, talks about ways to avoid Alzheimer's and Dementia. It's no surprise that reading can provide some much-needed mental exercise.

2. There's been a lot of panic about Amazon's new rules for ebooks. John Dopp has clarified the rules, and it's not all that scary. Your book will not be pulled off the market or get a warning for an occasional typo that slips through. Get the real scoop.

3. A lot of people are touting Socialism as the way to go. Denmark is a prime example of a Socialist country. One of their citizens gives us the real story on what it's like to live under that system.

4.  Positive Writer interviewed Jerry B. Jenkins recently. He talks about his writing journey and how he still deals with insecurities.

5.  The Blogging Bistro talks about 11 Weak Words That Dilute Your Blog Posts' Impact.

Writers:  What are some weak words that trip you up?

Readers:  Do you agree that reading is good mental exercise? Please explain.

Photo Credit: John Pilge

Stereotypes/Anthologies/Deadlines/Immigration/New Year

1.  Kristina McMorris guest posts at Writer Unboxed on the subject of Stereotypical Perspectives. She gives great advice on incorporating characteristics based on common knowledge. I think you'll find this article thought provoking and a good balance between showing reality and the desire to avoid offense.

2.  I've written for anthologies, and I know many of you have as well. Susan Spann posts at Writers In The Storm on the subject of, "Show Me The Money: Royalties in Anthology Contracts." She defines certain terms and gives examples of contract language.

3.  Whether we're writers or not, we all face deadlines. I came across this blog post by Carol Garvin on the subject. The insights she gives crystallized some thoughts for me.

4.  You'd have to be totally cut off from TV and the Internet not to hear the growing debate on immigration. This article by the Family Research Council gives a logical, sane view and frames the debate from an ideological perspective. I highly recommend it.

5.  We've landed! On the moon - yes, but that was a long time ago. No, I'm referring to 2016, a New Year.

Along with the New Year comes time management challenges. Jeanette Levellie released her new book, Shock the Clock, the middle of December 2015.

Why do we need this type of advice? If everything stayed on a neat schedule, we could do this with our eyes closed. Unfortunately, it's like hitting a moving target. Just when you think you've got everything figured out, a tire goes flat or Junior breaks a leg.

Check out this interview at Write Now and her new book.

Writers:  What kind of issues derail your writing time?

Readers:  Do you set goals for the New Year? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Richard Dudley

Real Life/Weed Words/Devo/Budget/Cats

1. LoRee Peery guest posts at Zoe M. McCarthy's blog. She shares about how she used her real-life experiences in writing her book. There are some great ideas here for writers and bloggers alike.

2. Are "weed words" creeping into your writing? Cyle Young guest posts at The Write Conversation.

3.  Dena Netherton writes about a new venture and Leaving the Results to God.

4.  FRC talks about the worries in Washington, D.C. about the impending budget crunch. Lobbyists are worried that any shutdown will have a negative impact on an already volatile market.

5.  Jeanette Levellie shares what she learned from her feline friends.

Writers:  What "weed words" trip you up?

Readers: If you've ever had a cat, what has it taught you?

Photo Credit:  Christoph Kurtzmann

Interview and Giveaway - Jeanette Levellie

Let's welcome Jeanette Levellie to Christian Writer/Reader Connection! Jeanette has a new book out called, "Shock the Clock." I love that title, don't you? Jen is going deeper with this interview and sharing a bit of her history.

1.  What would you say is the theme of your life?

Grace in many forms, hope, and humor.

2.  How has the Lord shown His grace to you throughout your life, and now, in your middle years?

I grew up in an alcoholic family, and my parents divorced when I was six. My mom married another alcoholic when I was nine, and my real daddy, a sweet guy whom I loved dearly, died seven months later. As a teen, I rebelled against my parents and acted out from a deep sense of abandonment and rejection. God never gave up on me, and forty years ago, He led me to a great man of God, Kevin Levellie, to be my husband. We won't hold it against him that he's a preacher!

Now, as the parent of two adults who struggle with various issues, I'm learning that God's grace is sufficient for every trial. No one is exempt from trials, but some are more victorious in them. Those are the people who learn to lean heavily on the Word and their relationship with Jesus.

3.  Your blog is titled, "Hope Splashes, Finding Gold in Life's Puddles." Can you explain why you chose that name?

No matter what you are going through and how muddy you get, God always has a surprise up His sleeves for you. You may get muddy finding it, but it's there.

4.  Why is humor so important to you?

Humor and laughter keep me from falling apart when I feel like the underside of a snake in a deep rut. The benefits of laughter and humor, both to physical and emotional health, have been proven by many studies. But if you don't believe those, just watch a hilarious movie or a YouTube video of a baby laughing, and see if you don't feel better afterwards. My last book, "The Heart of Humor," is filled with funny stories and articles about how laughter helps you stay young and feel great.

5.  Why are you so interested in Time Management?

I see many people who have talent and intelligence, but who have no idea how to manage their lives. I was not born organized. I had the messiest crib in the church nursery. I learned how to manage my time as an adult. So I'd like to share what I've learned with others, so they can get the most out of their lives and enjoy themselves.

My third book, Shock the Clock, Time Management Strategies for Writers and Other Creatives, releases December 15th, but you can preorder it here:

Author Bio:  Jeanette Levellie, humor/devotional author, is the wife of one man, mother of two adults, grandmother of three children, and servant of four cats. Her favorite sport is eating out. she is the author of three books and has published hundreds of columns, articles, stories, greeting card verses and poems.

GIVEAWAY:  Jeanette has generously offered to give away one signed, print copy of her book, "The Heart of Humor," or an ebook to one commenter. To enter, please leave a comment and your contact information (email address).

This giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. Void where prohibited. Deadline: 9/17/15 at midnight.

Spotlight on The Heart of Humor by Jeanette Levellie

Welcome to a vacation from stress, worry, and global whining. Learn the secrets of how laughter can help you:

- Live healthier and longer

- deepen your relationships

- trust a God with a sense of humor that gives a 90-year-old lady a baby.

In her sassy, mocha-out-the-nose style, Jeanette Levellie takes readers on an entertaining journey of 45 short stories with titles like Quit Pinching my Fruit, Confessions of a Jailbird, and Swimsuit Shopping Stress.

Nestled among the stories are comical drawings by a professional animator, articles, and lists revealing the superpowers of humor such as Got Pain? Laugh it Away, Everybody Loves Dummies, and Ten Ways to Help Yourself Laugh.

"Jeanette Levellie has the spiritual gift of encouragement. She shares it in her conversations, her ministry outreach, and now in this entertaining and enlightening book The Heart of Humor. As you read, you'll smile and chuckle, but at the same time you'll gain insights on life, love, and relationships." - Dr. Dennis Hensley, author, The Power of Positive Productivity

"Whether she's writing about her "Maggie Moments," planting onions on top of onions, or her favorite sport--dining out--Jeanette Levellie's The Heart of Humor delights and inspires. Do yourself a favor and read it." - Bob Hostettler, author of Red Letter Life.

"You'll laugh. You'll learn. You'll be entertained. And, you'll be encouraged!" - James Watkins, author, speaker, threat to society

You can connect with Jeanette at http://www.jeanettelevellie.com or find her playing on Facebook or Pinterest. She loves hearing from readers.

Conference Pictures and Report

Left to Right:  Jeanette Levellie, Susan Panzica, and yours truly. This picture was taken in the cafeteria during our lunch break on Saturday. The Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference has trained, encouraged, and given opportunities to writers for over 25 years.

Susan Panzica is a non-fiction writer/speaker. She's been published in a Chicken Soup Anthology, is co-founder of The Justice Network, and blogs at Eternity Cafe. She's also written a book, and I can't wait until some smart editor snatches it up and gets it published.

Jeanette Levellie is my favorite funny lady. She presented two workshops at the conference - one on time management and the other on humor. Check out her book: Two Scoops of Grace with Chuckles on Top. 

Here's Jeanette again during her humor workshop. She's a sought after speaker, vocalist, and writer. She blogs at Wings of Mirth and Worth.

Lisa Crayton, Freelance Writer/Author/Teacher, and I met at the Philly Conference years ago and have stayed in touch. She taught a Continuing Session (5 1-Hour Classes) this year on You CAN Write Magazine Articles. This talented friend loves pouring into aspiring and published writers alike.

My own conference experience involved re-connecting with friends, meeting new ones, and getting some excellent advice on marketing and promotion. This year's theme centered around Write His Answer. The keynote speakers challenged and gave conferees ideas on how to communicate the love of Jesus Christ in today's culture. I came home rejuvenated, encouraged, and ready to press forward.

Writers: Have you ever attended a writers conference? If you have, please share your most memorable moment.

Readers: What book is on your nightstand this week?

Pictures: Susan J. Reinhardt @Copyright 2014

Sunny Day Internet Delights

I'm checking out favorite Internet hangouts on this sunny day. Of course, I won't stay long because the beautiful weather beckons me as it shines through my windows. For now, I'll take a quick run down Internet Lane.

1.  Dotti Adamek, at Ink Dots, is sharing 52 Author Dates. She's on Week 22. This Aussie writer has a way with words that will transport you into her world.

2.  Jeanette Levellie, at On Wings of Mirth and Worth, has a new take on writing a romance.

3.  Karen Lange, at Write Now, shows how The Top 5 list can light a writing spark for both you and your kids.

Writers and Readers:  Do lists intrigue and inspire you? What kind of lists do you make other than the dreaded To-Do List? I like to make lists of blog post ideas, possible character names with an emphasis on what they mean.

Photo Credit:  Jonesls

 

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!

Friday Round-Up - #219

Jeanette Levellie, at On Wings of Mirth and Worth, posts about being great before you're famous. 

Heather Sunseri, at Balance With Purpose, discusses self-publishing not really being "self" any more than traditional publishing is "full service."

Writers: Do you think self-publishing is "taking the easy route?" Why or why not?

Readers:  What are some of the small kindnesses that have impacted your life?

Have a blessed weekend!

Author Interview - Jeanette Levellie - Part 2

 
Don't forget, Jen has a fabulous giveaway on her Facebook pages.

4) Welcome back, Jen! You're known for your humor. Is this a natural gift or did you study to acquire it?

I grew up in a sarcastic family. I learned to look at everything with a little snarky attitude. I turn it around and tell on myself, so that I'm not mean to others, but I have to be cautious so it doesn't get out of hand. I think my humor is mostly a grace gift from the Lord, but I've learned to increase it from reading humorists like James Watkins, Philip Gulley, and Erma Bombeck. No matter how big  your gift is, you can always increase it by hanging out with people more gifted than you are.

5) What advice would you give a non-fiction writer, who wants to publish a book?

A) Pray and ask God to lead you down the path He wants for you. Everyone's trail is different, and the biggest mistake we can  make is to try and follow another sheep rather than the Shepherd.

B) Hone your skills--determine to grow. Read craft books, go on blogs, join a critique group, and attend writers conferences.

C) As the Lord to put people in your path that can help you achieve the goals and dreams He's put in your heart. As BIG! We are talking God here. He formed the universe with the word of His power and raised Jesus from death and us from Satan's grip. He can surely open a few doors for you. But you have to ask, and expect Him to come through.

D) Be humble enough to take advice people give you.

E) Then set your bootie in the chair and write, write, write and submit, submit, submit.

Bio: A spunky pastor's wife of thirty-plus years, Jeanette Levellie authors a bi-weekly humor/inspirational column, God Is Bigger, a popular feature in the Paris Beacon News since 2001. She has published stories in Guideposts anthologies, Love is a Verb Devotional with Gary Chapman, articles in Christian and secular magazines, greeting card verses, and poems for calendars. She is also a prolific speaker for both Christian and secular groups and loves to make people laugh while sharing her love for God and life.

Jeanette is a mother of two grown children, three grandchildren, and servant to four cats. She lives in Paris (not the French one), Illinois with her husband, Kevin. Her hobbies include dining out, talking baby talk to her cats, avoiding housework, reading, and watching old classic movies.

To buy Two Scoops of Grace with Chuckles on Top, go to: Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, Amazon, or Barnes and Noble.

Question for Writers and Readers: What nuggets did you take away from this interview?

I particularly liked Jen's advice to follow the Shepherd rather than the sheep.