White Space/One Book/Statistics/Devo/Choir

1.  As writers, we think in terms of words. However, did you ever think about white space? This is the canvas upon which your words sit. White space gives readers an opportunity to catch their breath and to focus on the story. Ellen Buikema posts at Writers in the Storm and gives tips on how to keep your readers from experiencing sensory overload.

2.  Writers, are you frustrated because the book of your heart has been rejected a gazillion times? Shannon Taylor Vannatter, at Seriously Write, shares a story about how to move forward.

3.  While the media would have us believe that we're just keeping out innocent women and children, the truth is many dangerous criminals are trying or have succeeded in entering our borders. WND reports on the statistics of those arrested by ICE.

4.  Edie Melson, from The Write Conversation, posts on "Let Go of the Steering Wheel." Having made several drastic moves at the Lord's leading, this resonated with me.

5.  The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir sings, "What a Beautiful Name." https://youtu.be/6Yc3exCsHCw

Writers:  How many books have you written? If you're published, how many did you write prior to being published? Please share your experience.

Readers:  Edie Melson's devotional hit home for me. Have you ever experienced following the Lord's leading into the great unknown? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Jenny Rollo

Quirky/Too Old?/Abortion Funding/Risks/Breakfast Recipe

1.  Jodie Wolfe writes about creating quirky characters at the Seriously Write blog. I can relate since one of my characters in The Moses Conspiracy had an interesting physical trait - his ears would turn red when he was angry.

2.  Do you think you're too old to write? Jean Fischer shares her thoughts on the subject at her blog, "Something to Write Home About."

3. With so much bad news in the media, the fact that the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld President Trump's Title X rule change encouraged me. Under this ruling, abortion providers must separate their family planning/birth control services from their abortion services. Check out this article at Breaking Christian News.

4. Bonnie Leon talks about, "Taking Risks." Check out her blog here.

5.  Are you tired of being stuck at home because of the Corona Virus? Here's a yummy breakfast recipe from Averie Cooks to brighten your morning.

Writers:  How has the Corona Virus pandemic affected your writing?

Readers:  Since so many activities have been restricted, are you reading more books? How many?

Photo Credit:  Pierre Amerlynck

Never Give Up/Character Goals/Preacher Ejected/Devo/Herb Gardening Mistakes

1. Elva Cobb Martin posts at Seriously Write on the subject, "Never Give Up." After 26 rejections, she put her manuscript in the attic for 20 years. Check out how this story ends.

2.  Jim Dempsey, at Writer Unboxed, talks about character goals and what drives them. It all boils down to their values, and what's most important in their lives.

3.  WND reports on a lawsuit filed by a Portland, Oregon preacher, who was ejected from a city park for sharing a pro-life message.

4.  Tammy Karasek posts a devotional at The Write Conversation about Writers as Harvesters of Righteousness. The truths expressed can benefit both writers and readers. I hope you'll take a couple of minutes to read her words of wisdom.

5. I've grown herbs both indoors and outdoors. Like other gardeners, I've had my share of failures. I came across an article at Plant Care Today about "10 Herb Gardening Mistakes," and thought I'd pass it on to you.

Writers:  What values drive your character's goals? Please share.

Readers:  Current events impact our lives not only as writers, but also as readers. When attacks on freedom of speech and religion occur, we can sit back and allow them to succeed. I much prefer this preacher's approach. What is your opinion?

Photo Credit: John Nyberg

Writing Dialogue/Real-Lie Intrusion/Infanticide/Prayer/Cupcakes

1.  Kathleen Neely posts at The Write Conversation on the Do's and Don'ts for Writing Dialogue. Newbies and seasoned writers alike can benefit from this post.

2.  Julia David urges, "Writers Beware. Your Real Life May Intrude on Your Creativity." See her post at Seriously Write.

3.  Virginia's governor made some outrageous comments in an interview regarding infanticide. It's no surprise he got his talking points from Planned Parenthood. Check out this article.

4.  Lori Hatcher shares a Writer's Prayer at The Write Conversation. Readers can relate by simply substituting whatever gifts God has given them.

5.  Christmas is right around the corner. Check out these cute cupcakes at Preppy Kitchen.

Writers:  What kind of difficulties do you experience when writing dialogue?

Readers:  What would you substitute for writing in The Writer's Prayer?

Photo Credit: Benjamin Earwicker

Co-Writing/Don't Quit/Coffee Shop/Courage/Birthday Freebies

1.  Joshua Masters posts at The Write Conversation about co-writing with the Holy Spirit. If we consider ourselves Christian writers, we must get to know the One who has written and sold the greatest best seller of all time.

2.  Most of you know I've struggled writing each book. At the moment, I could easily walk away from writing (well, not THAT easily since ideas keep popping into my head). I found this post at The Write Conversation, which encouraged me. God never promised the writing journey would be a cakewalk. So, my friends, keep the faith.

3.  Faithwire reports that Pastor Bruce McLeod is opening a coffee shop staffed with special needs people. Don't miss this heartwarming story.

4.  How many need a dose of courage? Yeah, I could use some of that myself. Gail Johnson posts at Seriously Write about this subject. While she comes from a writing perspective, we can apply this to many situations.

5.  Birthday freebies! Check out Hip2Save's latest list here.

Writers and Readers:  How do you stick with projects that encounter multiple obstacles?

Photo Credit:  Dave Shields

Online Safety/Character Emotions/Yale Prof/Perseverance/Coffee

1.   Edie Melson, at The Write Conversation gives 8 Tips for Writers to Stay Safe Online. The cyber world has many criminals looking for an easy mark. Protect yourself by taking some simple steps.

2.   Jerry Jenkins tells us how to skillfully reveal our characters' emotions. I was unable to do a normal link, so I'm posting the entire one here.

https://jerryjenkins.com/character-emotions/?inf_contact_key=3e8f0c0200b2feab60674dbd9dc9d14ef651f238aa2edbb9c8b7cff03e0b16a0

3.  Finally, a Yale professor rejects Darwinism and points to Intelligent Design as a serious theory. Check out this article at Christian Headlines.

4.  Whether you're a writer or reader, there are areas in life where perseverance is required if you're going to succeed. Christopher Wells posts an inspiring word at Seriously Write.

5.   I learned something recently from a houseplant post on housefur.com: Houseplants love coffee! Instead of dumping leftover coffee down the drain, you can use it as a natural fertilizer for your plants.

Writers:  What are some measures you take to stay safe online?

Readers:  What topics regarding current events interest you?

Photo Credit:  David Guglielmo

Purpose/Refuel/Chik-Fil-A/Devo/Pinterest Tip

1.  Newbie alert! Zoe M. McCarthy teaches on characters saying and doing only things that have purpose. Her examples are stellar. Don't miss this learning/refresher opportunity.

2.  Kathleen Rouser posts at Seriously Write about taking time to refuel. One of the things I did when beginning this journey was to give up most of my hobbies. I dabbled at a few here and there, but I devoted all my energies to writing. I soon found myself drained. Check out this post and give yourself the opportunity to refuel.

3.  Breaking Christian News reports that Montana's Attorney General invited Chik-Fil-A to open more restaurants in his state. Other states have openly tried to ban the fast-food giant because of their Biblical values. (I've noticed that many stores do not carry gift cards for this restaurant. The culture wars are real, people!)

4.  Rhonda Rhea, at The Write Conversation, gives a humorous analogy on grace.

5.  I'm always looking for ways to make both cooking and cleaning easier. I found this cleaning hack for the bathtub on Pinterest (of course). One Good Thing shows how Dawn Dish Detergent and a clean broom (a cheapie one from the Dollar Store) can be a game changer for those with aching knees and backs.

P.S. I tried this method with mixed results. Maybe I didn't let the Dawn Dish Detergent sit long enough, but I wasn't overly impressed with how well it cleaned my circa 1950's bathtub. I'll read the article again and give it another go. Let me know how it works for you.

Writers:  What is the most challenging aspect of dialogue for you? Please share.

Readers:  What is your favorite part of reading? The researched items? The dialogue? The storyline? Some other part? Please share your thoughts.

Photo Credit:  Michael Lorenzo

Internal Editor/Character Insomnia/Downs Syndrome/Cave Writing/Birthday Freebies

1.  Do you have a hard time turning off that internal editor? You know, the one that keeps you re-writing a scene in your first draft? Erin Howard shares her experience at the Seriously Write Blog.

2.  Jean Kisacky, at Writer Unboxed, shares what she learned while fighting insomnia. It helped her improve her writing and added layers to her story. "What Keeps Your Characters Up at Night," might help some of us get deeper into our characters' heads.

3.  Ashton Kutcher is known not only for his acting, but also for his stand against human trafficking and pro-life. Recently, he posted a video by a man with Downs Syndrome. Catch this excellent post on Breaking Christian News.

4.  Audrey Frank, at The Write Conversation, talks about, "Writing From The Cave." Those places of suffering can produce great creativity. I was particularly taken with her line, "Tell God first, tell people second."

5.  Do you love Freebies? Hip2Save has a list of 27 Birthday Freebies. I've joined quite a few of them and received a bunch of coupons around my birthday. Have fun!

Writers:  Have you used your places of suffering to enhance your writing? How did you accomplish this?

Readers:  Many blogs, books, and articles focus on the tough times in our lives - those cave months or years. When my husband passed away, I was drawn to a blog for widows. It helped me navigate this new life without him. Have you found comfort in reading the experience of others? Please share.

Photo Credit: Andy Gonsalves

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

BookBub Ads/Realistic Characters/Child Euthanasia/Devo/Meat Loaf w/Bacon

1.  For those of you who have a book published either traditionally or Indie, check out Anne Janzer's article on BookBub Ads to support your marketing efforts.

2.  Lori Freeland posts at Writers in The Storm regarding character development in your novel. She gives many tips on how to achieve this and bring your book to life.

3.  WND reports that Canada is embracing a culture of death. They are on the verge of passing laws permitting child euthanasia. They've already fully accepted adult euthanasia. This is where the slippery slope leads - the total devaluing of human life.

4.  Robin Lee Hatcher posts at Seriously Write on how to stay with writing for the long haul. The principles can be applied to any pursuit in life, so it's not a "writer only post." I loved the line where she said every one of her books is a book of her heart. I think you'll like this one.

5.  Brr, winter is here in the Northeast. Looking for some comfort food, I came across this recipe at Real Simple for meatloaf with bacon. It sounds good, and maybe I'll even try this one. (I can't begin to tell you how many recipes I clip and never make!) If you try it, please let me know how it comes out.

Writers:  How do you develop your characters? Do you have lengthy profiles or get to know them as you write? Please share.

Readers: What's more important to you: the characters or the plot? Why?

Photo Credit:  Sergey Klemkin

Stumped/Red Flags/Homeschool/Devo/Fudge Recipe

1.  Have you ever been stumped on how to get your character out of trouble? Dr. Richard Mabry shares how he handles this problem. Check out his post at Seriously Write.

2.  Lisa Hall-Wilson gives us red flags for author intrusion in deep pov (point of view). Internal dialogue works only if it feels organic to the reader. This may seem like heavy stuff, but whether you're experienced or a newbie, you can get something out of this article.

3.  Lifesitenews.com reported on a Virginia county that wants to repeal a law allowing homeschooling for religious reasons. Homeschool families have long been under attack. This is just another example.

4.  Lynn J. Simpson has a devotional entitled, "Words Richer Than Gold."

5.  When that chocolate craving hits, you might want to pull out this recipe for fudge. Averie Cooks shares an uncomplicated version to satisfy your sweet tooth or treat the kids in your family.

Writers:  Do you ever get your characters into trouble and then wonder how to rescue them? Please share.

Readers:  Do you collect recipes online? Have you tried any of them? Please share your experience.

Photo Credit:  Jesus Manuel Nieto Bobadilla

Writer Voice/Discouragement/Possible Cure/Inspiring Post/Recipe

1.  For all you newbie writers and for those still confused about writer voice, Lisa Hall-Wilson clarifies its meaning. https://lisahallwilson.com/how-to-discover-your-author-voice-and-why-you-probably-already-know-it/

2.  Janet Sketchley posts at the Seriously Write blog about discouragement and thoughts of quitting her writing. https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2018/08/quitting-time-by-janet-sketchley.html

3. Cancer is a horrible scourge, so any news pointing to a possible cure produces great hope. Breaking Christian News reports on development of a drug for acute myeloid leukemia.   http://www.breakingchristiannews.com/articles/display_art.html?ID=25446

My husband died from the acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a different form of the disease. Please pass this information along to anyone who is suffering or has a loved one battling leukemia.

4. Dena Netherton volunteers at a crisis pregnancy center. In this post, she gives a glimpse of her activities. She may never know the full impact of her work, but she knows God is weaving the threads into a bigger tapestry. https://denanetherton.me/2018/08/23/a-single-thread/

5. I don't know about you, but I love pasta salads. Unfortunately, most of them require mayonnaise or creamy dressings, which I can't eat. Averie Cooks came up with a Skinny Italian Pasta Salad recipe that I just printed out. If you try it, please let me know if it's as tasty as it looks.  https://www.averiecooks.com/skinny-italian-chicken-pasta-salad/

Writers:  Have you ever been confused about "writer voice?" What is your definition?

Readers:  Which topics in the Friday posts speak to you? I'd be interested in your feedback. :)

Photo Credit:  Bartek Ambrozik

Batching/Writing Through Hard Times/China/Devo/Shopping

1.  Cathy Baker posts at The Write Conversation about a time-management system called, "Batching," and how it inspires creativity.

                                                                                                                 

2.  Kimberley Woodhouse posts at Seriously Write about how to write through life's hard times.

3.  Breaking Christian News reports that the church in China is living another chapter of the Book of Acts in spite of increasing pressure.

4.  Wendy Pope, at Crosscards, shares how her life became complete when she not only received Jesus but fully included Him into her happily-ever-after.

5.  Susan, at Writing Straight From The Heart, shares her shopping adventures while on vacation. What kinds of items do you buy when on holiday?

Writers:  How do you maintain your writing productivity during life's hard times?

Readers:  What are some of your favorite things to do while on vacation?

Photo Credit:  Torli Roberts

Saying Less/Motivation/Archaeology/Devo/Flowers

1.  Jane Friedman posted at Publishers Weekly on, "How to Network Better by Saying Less." With conference season in full swing, her timely advice can help us all when we meet editors and agents.

2.  Glenn Haggerty posts at Seriously Write about motivation. Having been on the proverbial hamster wheel the first six months of 2018, I needed the reminders he provided - like filing the to-do list for the day.

3. It makes my heart glad when I read about archaeological discoveries that validate the Bible. Not long ago, U.S. Christians unearthed the seals of King Hezekiah and the prophet, Isaiah. Check out this report by Breaking Christian News.

4.  Lynn J. Simpson's devotion, "Let's Talk About Romance," touches at the core of our longings - to be loved and to love. No matter what our marital status, we can experience the love of God.

5.  I love flowers, but these knees don't like kneeling to plant them. I've been searching for perennials, so I can put them in and see them come up every year. I have astilbes with a pretty, feathery bloom. Better Homes and Gardens recently posted an article on the 15 Most Underused Perennials. Maybe you'll get some ideas as well.

Writers:  Are you attending a conference this year? How do you prepare for your editor/agent appointments?

Readers:  Do you have perennials in your garden? Which ones do you have?

Photo Credit:  Vicky Johnson

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

Turning Point/No Regrets/Bill Meyers/Burnout/Decisions

1.  Ocieanna Fleiss guest posts at Seriously Write about a major turning point in her life. Don't miss this inspiring story.

2.  I keep finding encouraging posts. Someone out there besides me must need them. :) Kristi Ann Hunter wrote about Living Without Regrets on Elaine Stock's blog, Everyone's Story.

3. Here we go again! Bill Meyers, whose books have sold over 8 million copies, shares an experience he had while producing a movie.

4.  Are you headed for burn-out? Whether or not you're a writer, you'll benefit from this piece. Children's Author, Kristi Holl says, "Beware! Burnout Ahead."

5.  Do you have a major decision to make? MaryAnn Diorio gives 5 Questions To Ask Yourself When Making Tough Decisions.

Writers:  How do you avoid burnout?

Readers:  I loved how God gave Bill Meyers wisdom in a difficult situation. Have you ever experienced something similar?

Photo Credit:  Marcel Hol

Speech Tags/TK/Free Speech/Hacking/Congrats

1.  Adam Blumer guest posts at Seriously Write on an alternative to speech tags. Writing dialogue can be tricky, but he gives some excellent tips.

2.  Tracy Hahn-Burkett guest posts at Writer Unboxed on to TK or Not to TK? I had no clue what "TK" was much less whether or not to do it. It's when you come to a place in your manuscript where you need to fill in a detail. Rather than stop writing, you insert TK to indicate the need for research. For example: (TK - name of local newspaper).

3.  WND reports on how San Diego's city employees are forbidden to use the term, "Founding Fathers." Check out the article about the attack on free speech.

4.   It's unfortunate, but social media hacking occurs more frequently than we realize. Edie Melson, at The Write Conversation, gives tips on how to reduce your vulnerability.

5.   Author Susan Panzica has a new website. She's also received interest on three of her manuscripts at a writers conference. I hope you'll pop over to her site and get to know a lovely writer. Congratulations, Susan!

Writers:  Do you press on when you discover the need for additional research or do you stop everything?

Readers:  How do you discover new authors or blogs?

Photo Credit:  John Pilge

Unpolished/Story Ideas/FRC/Get Organized/Recipe

1.  Traci Tyne Hilton guest posts at The Write Conversation. Her view of unpolished literary works certainly runs counter to traditional publishing models. Interesting post.

2.  Amber Schamel guest posts on Seriously Write. Sparking story ideas isn't as hard as we think. She illustrates her method and encourages writers to keep their eyes open.

3.  FRC puts out reliable information, and this issue of their update made my hair stand on end. For all their talk about privacy, the government is stripping away in small chunks. It makes me think of the old saying, "He's talking from both sides of his mouth," meaning contradictory statements.

Also covered is the lack of Christian refugees in this huge influx.

4.  I don't know about you, but this time of the year brings out my desire to get organized. While I've made progress, clutter still creates problems. I came across this article with 5 tips to deal with all the stuff. Perhaps it will help you as well.

5.  Recipe Corner. Here's a recipe for Butternut Squash Parmesan from Kraft. It looks yummy. I'll print it out and maybe even try it. (Maybe this is one of the reasons I have a problem with clutter - a lot of good intentions, but not a lot of acting on them. LOL!)

Writers:  What sparks story ideas for you?

Readers:  Do you print out recipes and then never make them? Please share.

Photo Credit:  dekok

Dedication/Homeschool/Experts/Blog/Devo

1.  Ace Collins guest posts on Everyone's Story and shares the challenges of writing a Dedication. How do you condense a life into one or two short lines?

2.  Whatever you think of homeschooling, this New Jersey couple were subjected to an interrogation and threats that should give all of us pause for consideration.

3.  Betsey Duffy and Laurie Myers guest posted on Seriously Write. They used readers to advise them on the accuracy of their scenes.

4.  K. Douglas Brown guest posts at Blogging Bistro. He gives 3 Lifesaving Tips for Newbie Bloggers. I wish I'd had these when I started out. I'd add one more to his list: learn how to schedule posts. :)

5.  Beth K. Vogt shares a devotional on The Write Conversation. She encourages us to "Be All There."

Writers:  How do you find experts to help you with your works-in-progress?

Readers:  Is there some area of expertise you have that could assist your writer friends? Please share. Maybe I'll consult you in the future. :)

Photo Credit:  michelemik