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

Newbies/Emotional Context/COVID-19/Devo/Recipe

1.  OK, newbies, here are six things not to do when you're starting your book (or blog). Check out Cathy Fyock's article on The Write Conversation.

2.  Lisa Hall-Wilson asks, "What Is Emotional Context And Why Does Your Story Need it?

3.  Faithwire reports on Homeland Security's comments that summer heat and sun may kill COVID-19.

4.  Edie Melson, at The Write Conversation, talks about, "Walking Through The Storms of Life."

5.  With warm weather on the horizon, Averie Cooks gives us a no-bake recipe for chocolate peanut butter fudge bars. Just the name has my mouth watering!

Writers:  What are some of the things you learned NOT to do as a writer?

Readers:  We're going through some trying times with COVID-19. How are you handling the stress?

Photo Credit:  the_franz

Spark/Fixing It/Virus-Tracking/Joy/Recipe

1.  Barbara Linn Probst posts at Writer Unboxed about The Spark of a Novel. My own spark for The Moses Conspiracy occurred when my late husband and I visited Gettysburg in 2004. I knew the moment was significant, but the spark didn't turn into a flame until August of 2005. Good article.

2.  Grammar problems can trip up a reader and pull them out of the story. Mathina Calliope posts at Jane Friedman's blog on an easy fix a tense problem.

3. Virus-tracking technology is putting privacy at risk. Check out this article at WND.

4.  Edie Melson posts at The Write Conversation about Tapping Into the Power of Creative Joy. I'm reminded of the scripture that tells us the joy of the Lord is our strength.

5.  I've used my Crockpot Express Multi-Cooker (similar to the Instapot) quite a bit. Pot roast comes out yummy and super tender in it. I just found a blog with recipes for the Instapot and Crockpot Express. Justine, at temeculablogs.com, has a recipe for egg bites that I want to try. I thought I'd share it with you. :)

Writers:  What sparks your creativity either as a novelist or non-fiction writer?

Readers:  Journaling was an important part of maintaining stability during several crises in my life. What are your thoughts on the subject? Have you ever journaled about something you're going through while giving thanks for daily blessings?

Photo Credit:  Penny Mathews

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

Making the Leap/Revisions/China/Devo/Succulents

1.  John Peregine posts at the Writers in The Storm blog about the leap from non-fiction to fiction. Having made that particular jump myself 15 years ago, I was interested to see what he had to say. While my reasons for the switch were different, his journey resonated with me.

2.  Kris Spisak posts at Jane Friedman's blog on looking for problem areas when revising your novel. One tantalizing tidbit: Don't let your characters only react to what's happening to them, but let them be actively engaged by making their own choices (my words).

3.  While it deals with the coronovirus epidemic, China's government is cracking down on poems Christians write to celebrate the Chinese New Year. Read about it here.

4.  Edie Melson, at The Write Conversation, talks about learning to thrive in the midst of chaos. Right now, that's a prime lesson for me.

5.  I'm fairly new to planting/tending succulents, but I'm loving it. With spring here, my craving to dig in the dirt is growing by the minute. This year, I want to try planting some outdoors, as well as indoors. Propagating plants is also attractive and saves money.

Kat, at The Succulent Eclectic, shares her favorite succulent tools. Since most of my gardening implements are the larger variety, I'm going to get these mini versions. Can't wait!

Writers:  Non-fiction writers have you ever considered writing a novel? Please share.

Readers:  What is your reading preference: fiction or non-fiction? Why?

Photo Credit: Jeff Hallam

Expressing Grief/2 Mistakes/Cash/Devo/Spring Garden Tips

1.  There are times when we experience great loss. The need to express ourselves in written form can become a torrent of words. Audrey Frank, at The Write Conversation, shares her experience with writing from this hard place. She has some good insights on how to make sure those words are helpful and not harsh.

2.  We haven't had many links recently on marketing. I found this article by Jane Friedman, at Publisher's Weekly. on two mistakes to avoid if you want support for your book.

3.  WND reports on a woman's cash being confiscated for no reason. There was no crime, no allegations, nothing. However, they deemed the fact she was traveling with a large amount of money "suspicious." The family is suing for the return of the money. There have been other instances of the TSA and DEA confiscating innocent people's money.

4.  Rhonda Rhea posts a devotional at The Write Conversation entitled, "Now That's Alarming." I enjoy her humorous take on things and how she leads into a more serious truth.

5.  Spring and visions of flowers dance toward our doorstep. I can see them approaching in the distance.  Here are 10 spring garden tips to prepare for those stunning blooms.

Writers:  Have you used writing to express your grief? What form did it take? Please share.

Readers:  What prompts you to help an author?

Photo Credit: Anders Engelbel

Too Old?/Power of Story/China/Devo/Slow Cooker

1. Think you're too old to write? Think again. Jessica Ferguson shares her journey as a septugenarian, at Patti Shene's blog.

2.  Tim Suddeth posts at The Write Conversation about, "The Power of Story to Bridge Divisions." In this age of FB, Twitter, etc., it's become harder and harder to truly connect with people. I think you'll enjoy this post.

3. Christian Headlines reports on China's renewed persecution of Christians and the shutting down of churches.

4.  Julie Lavender posts at The Write Conversation on Vision For Writing in the New Year. While we're in the second month of 2020, I thought you'd enjoy her approach.

5. One cooking tool that's been around a long time is the slow cooker. Yummly answers questions about this appliance. Although simple to use, there are some things you shouldn't cook in it.

Writers:  Which writing link spoke to you? Please share your thoughts.

Readers: What's your favorite cooking tool? Why?

Photo Credit: Sam LeVan

Journey/Story Time/Israeli Intel/Devo/Minestrone Soup

1.   We all need encouragement at times. Lori Hatcher compares the writer's journey to her walking regimen. Check it out at The Write Conversation.

2.   Kathryn Craft, at Writer Unboxed, shows how to manipulate story time for maximal effect. Since I write suspense, I found this article fascinating and insightful.

3.  I reserve this space for news items and current events that might interest my readers. I came across this WND article about how Israel's intelligence agency is helping foil terrorists worldwide. They've certainly had plenty of experience.

4.  Rhonda Rhea, at The Write Conversation, talks about unselfish love.

5.  Brr! There's nothing like soup for a cold winter day. I discovered this Instant Pot Minestrone soup at Together As a Family.

Writers and Readers:  What are your favorite features on the Friday posts? Please feel free to suggest other topics.

Photo Credit:  Carlos Paes

Theme/One Word/Land Grab/Breathe/January Gardening

1.  Erika Liodice, at Writer Unboxed, decided to try something different than the tired New Year Resolution route. She enlisted the help of fellow writers to come up with a plan of action. Her approach makes sense and doesn't put undue stress on an already burdensome to-do list.

2.  Tammy Karasek, at The Write Conversation, talks about her one word for the New Year. One word can focus your efforts.

3.  WND reports that the State of Indiana grabbed land owned by the Pavlock family for many years and did so without compensation. They are fighting this situation now in the courts.

4.  The word "breathe" seems to be popping up as I write today's post. Michael K.  Reynolds wrote a post with that word. Do you take time to "breathe?"

5.  The winter months are often a frustrating time for avid gardeners. Our Stoney Acres posts about the seedlings you can start in January.

Writers:  Do you ask the Lord or choose a word for each New Year?  Please share.

Readers:  What did you think of the Writer Unboxed article? Do you think this is something useful in your own life?

Photo Credit:  Jesper Noher

Time/Reality Check/Barna Study/Bible Reading Plan/Free Pattern

1.  Jael McHenry posts at Writer Unboxed. We've all heard we have to make time to write. She has an interesting take on this subject. Although Thanksgiving and Christmas are behind us, others will follow that place demands on our time. Good reading.

2.  Writing takes a lot of hard work. Cindy Sproles, at The Write Conversation, gives us encouragement as writers with a healthy dose of reality.

3.  Crosswalk.com reports on a Barna study of a Biblical worldview of pastors and leadership. It's not surprising that many Christian adults follow this pattern. I'm reminded of the Bereans in the Book of Acts. They received the word gladly but then studied for themselves. Hat tip to my friend, Jean Fischer, for alerting me to this article.

4.  Tim Suddeth posts at The Write Conversation on, "Is a Bible Reading Plan for You in 2020?" With the New Year upon us, it's something to consider.

5.   Rescued Paw Designs has a free ear warmer pattern for people who like to crochet. It's easy enough for beginners and fast enough for those of us in a time crunch. Note: You have to scroll down quite a bit to get to the free pattern. It's a fun project for a snowy, winter night.

Writers:  What were some of your mistaken ideas about the writing business?

Readers:  What are your thoughts on Bible Reading Plans?

Photo Credit:  Seigo Nohara

Collage Outlining/Three Persons/Pro-Life/Speaking Truth/Recipe

1.  Barbara O'Neal posts at Writer Unboxed about the collage method of outlining a book. My writer friends will tell you I'm a pantser not an outliner, but this intrigued me. I'm thinking of giving it a try. The idea is to get out of your logical, left brain mode and over into your more creative right brain mode.

2.  Eva Marie Everson posts at The Write Conversation about the three persons you are - in public, at home, and alone with God. Applying this principle to our writing can help us avoid one and two-dimensional characters.

3.  Faithwire reports on Pro-Life podcaster, Allie Stuckey, as she destroys pro-abortion arguments at House Committee meeting.

4.  Tammy Karasek, at The Write Conversation, talks about Speaking the Truth in Love.

5.  Yes, I know Christmas is over, but there are plenty of other holidays coming up. This recipe for Fully Loaded Holiday M&M Cookie Bars is super easy. It requires only one bowl and no mixer. Check it out at Averie Cooks.

Writers:  Have you ever tried making a collage of your story? Please share.

Readers:  Can you identify why a book captivates you or not? What makes it ring true for you?

Photo Credit: Franci Strumpfer

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

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

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

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

Hugs/Write Boldly/Homeless/Legacy/Turkey Recipes

1.  Respected writing teacher, Margie Lawson, posts at Writers in the Storm about, "Fresh Writing Sells: Make Hugs Carry Power." A simple hug can turn into a powerful statement that grabs the reader. Please note this isn't a Christian website, but there are only minor things that might make you wince.

2.  Heather Webb posts at Writer Unboxed on, "Writing Boldly, Without Fear." Are you afraid to give your character flaws?

3.  WND reports on Kentucky's law that makes it illegal for a ministry to help the homeless.

4. Harry McLaughlin posted on The Write Conversation about what kind of legacy are we leaving. He's not only speaking to writers but everyone.

5.  Do you have a pressure cooker? With Thanksgiving approaching, I thought you might be interested in some turkey recipes. I found some on Pinterest and decided to share the website, Berry and Maple, with you.

Writers: Which writing link interested you the most?

Readers:  Do you ever check out the writing links? What information did you find surprising?

Photo Credit:  A Syed

No Unsolicited Manuscripts/Writing Time/Student Forced/Inspiration/Panic Attacks

1.  If newbie writers don't know how publishing works, they soon find out. Checking publishers' websites, they'll see, "no unsolicited manuscripts." Cindy Sproles, at The Write Conversation, takes on this subject and gives suggestions on how to break through this barrier.

2.  We hear so much about time management and how we can carve out enough to write. Lynn Blackburn, at The Write Conversation, urges us not to despise the writing time you do have. This article hit close to home for me. I'd be interested in what you think.

3.  Breaking Christian News reports on the possibility the Supreme Court may take on the case of a Christian student being forced to recite an Islamic conversion prayer.

4.  Do you ever wonder if your writing impacts others? Lucinda Seacrest McDowell shares how God showed her He wanted her to continue writing. Check out her post at The Write Conversation.

5.  Usually I reserve this spot for fun stuff. However, this week I'd like to share a post by Dr. Caroline Leaf on dealing with panic attacks. Dr. Leaf is a Christian and an expert on the human brain. Her posts are informative and practical.

Writers:  What kinds of discouraging thoughts plague your mind about your writing, and how do you deal with them?

Readers:  What book (other than the Bible) spoke to your heart about a personal situation? Please share.

Photo Credit:  R L

Emotions/A Hiding Plot/Christians Banned/Devo/Geraniums

1.  Lisa Hall-Wilson, at Writers in the Storm, talks about writing emotions in deep point of view. Don't let that frighten you. She's an excellent teacher, and I've learned a lot reading her articles. :)

2.  Janice Hardy, at Writing in the Storm, posts on, "Getting Lost When Your Plot Hides Behind the Details." Sometimes we have an idea for a story, and it isn't working. She gives a great example and then dissects it.

3.  When a Christian band was excluded from a concert on public property, they asked the ACLJ for help. The lawyers met with the organizers and pointed out that the Supreme Court has repeatedly upheld the free speech rights of individuals. Check out this informative article on WND.

4.  Peggy Sue Wells posts, at The Write Conversation, about Cec Murphy and how his experience on the mission field impacted his writing.

5.  Geraniums add so much beauty to a garden.  Instead of buying new plants every year, why not try overwintering them?  I found these instructions at Nikki Lynn Design.

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

Photo Credit:  Kym McLeod

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

Agents/Scents/Right to Know Law/Devo/Herbs

1.  Getting an agent is akin to grasping the brass ring. So many publishers require agents to submit manuscripts. Rachel Pieh Jones posted at Jane Friedman's blog about, "What Happened After I Lost My Agent - Twice." This article gives specific suggestions on how to handle rejection, including our attitudes toward our writing and ourselves. (You'll see from our devotional below the tie-in. I needed this, and I'm sure many others do as well.)

2.  Zoe M. McCarthy talks about introducing scents into stories. Her posts always give me great ideas.

3.  WND reports on a judge's ruling that The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania forfeiture records are subject to the Right to Know Law. The government can take - yes, TAKE - property and money even if no criminal charges are filed. This is definitely a must-read article.

4.  Beth K. Vogt posts an encouraging word at The Write Conversation. While it's geared toward writers, the principles apply to everyone. What kind of words are you speaking - strong ones or weak ones?

5.  Winter is fast approaching. You can have fresh herbs by growing them indoors in pots. Check out this post at Easy  Balcony Gardening for instructions.

Writers:  Which writing post resonated with you? Please share.

Readers:  Do you have an indoor garden during the winter (things you'd normally grow outside in good weather)? Please share what types of plants you select. I'm especially interested in saving the beautiful geranium that graced my porch all summer.

Photo Credit: Gerson Ben David