Have a Blessed Christmas!

David Phelps sings, O Holy Night. Enjoy!

I will be taking a blog break until Monday, January 6, 2014.

Writers and Readers: What's your favorite Christmas song and artist?


Photo Credit:  alexbruda

If You Agree to Accept This Mission...

God's love is an endless source of amazement to me. Although He knew Adam and Eve would sin, He still created them and made preparations to rescue mankind.

This plan would require tremendous sacrifice. Instead of walking on streets of gold, the Savior would travel dusty roads. The adoration of angels would be there, but muffled by those seeking to entrap Him with words. Heaven's perfection would give way to suffering humanity.

He had to succeed where Adam failed and fulfill the law as a Spirit-filled man. Jesus would be born free of the curse Adam brought upon us via the virgin birth. A slave can't free a slave. Since the fallen nature is passed down through Adam, God had to be His father.

After they tortured and crucified Him, God raised His sinless Son from the dead after three days. How can anyone doubt God's love? He went to great lengths to obtain forgiveness and new life.

Years ago, I heard an old spiritual that said, "I don't know why Jesus loved me. I don't know why He cared. I don't know why He sacrificed His life. Oh, but I'm glad, so glad He did."

That song often runs through my mind and heart. I can't explain it. I can't understand it, but I'm so grateful God sent His Son.

Photo Credit:  dogmadic

It's About to Start!

First came The Moses Conspiracy, now comes..... The Scent of Fear.

The Zimmermans enjoy the tenuous peace in the wake of their hair-raising year battling the New Patriots. Unexpected visitors once again throw them into turmoil.

Jim Kenneman, Director of National Security, masterminded the plan to break up a hate group ravaging the Christian community. Now, his enemies are out to eliminate him. Should he make a run for it or stick by his tried-and-true negotiating skills?

Monty Addison, a topnotch operative, carried out his assignment in Bird-in-Hand. A plot to destroy his boss sends him on a mission. Without agency sanction, it may cost him everything - his career, his family, and maybe his life.

Dr. Abby Weaver strives to save infants and toddlers in Holmes County, Ohio. When she meets two strangers, she can't get the tall, handsome one out of her mind. Will their paths intersect again or will dangerous times keep them apart?

The Scent of Fear is available at:

~~~Amazon~~~

~~~Barnes and Noble~~~

The Book Series

About the Author

Susan J. Reinhardt's publishing credits include her debut novel, The Moses Conspiracy, as well as devotionals, short articles, and contributions to anthologies. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers.

A widow, daughter, stepmom, and active church member, Susan resides in Pennsylvania. When not writing, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, couponing, gardening, and finding small treasures in antique shops.

You can connect with Susan at her Blog, on Twitter, and Facebook.

Blog Tour Schedule

December 16
~Diane Estrella, www.dianeestrella.com

~Pamela Christian, http://pamelachristianministries.com/pamelas_blog

December 17

~Sandie Czosek, http://chattycrone.blogspot.com/

~Linda O'Connell, http://lindaoconnell.blogspot.com/

December 18

~Lynn Mosher, http://lynnmosher.com/

~Jill Ivy, https://lucky4jill.wordpress.com/

December 19

~Debbie Curto, http://debbieloseanything.blogspot.com

~Cecelia Lester, http://quietspirit-followingmyking.blogspot.com/

December 20

~Cecelia Lester, http://quietspirit-followingmyking.blogspot.com/

~Lee Privette, http://faithfamilyfrugalityandme.blogspot.com/?m=1

December 21

~Patti Smith, http://gridirongrannyfootballfanatic.blogspot.com/

~Carene Havel, https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6440085.Carlene_Havel/blog

December 22

~Darlene Arroyo-Lozada, http://lovebookslozada.blogspot.com/

~Karen Korb, http://stillmagnolias.blogspot.com

December 23

~Maria I. Morgan, www.mariaimorgan.com

~Beckie Stoneking, www.inaminute-beckie.blogspot.com

December 26

~Leah's Good Reads, http://leahsgoodreads.blogspot.com/

~Marja Verschoor-Meijers, http://sacredsabbath.blogspot.com

December 27

~Jennifer Van Huss, http://oneheartonefamily.com

~Brittany McEuen, www.brittreadsfiction.wordpress.com

December 28

~Debbie Curto, http://debbieloseanything.blogspot.com

~Lori Drake, http://www.perfectisboring.blogspot.com

December 29

~Kim Justice, http://breathoflifebookreviews.blogspot.com/

~K. Dawn Byrd, Www.kdawnbyrd.blogspot.com

December 30

~Ruth Schiffmann, http://outonalimbshywritergoessocial.blogspot.com/

~Janette Dolores, www.janettedolores.com

December 31

~Cindi Clubbs, http://ccclubbs.com/

~Kathleen Maher, http://kathleenlmaher.blogspot.com/

January 2

~Jen Cudmore, http://www.jencudmore.com/

~Karen Lange, http://karenelange.blogspot.com/

January 7

~Jeanette Levellie, http://jeanettelevellie.blogspot.com/

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My Review

Open to US addresses only. One person will receive a $25 Amazon GC and a copy of The Scent of Fear. Please use the Rafflecopter below to be entered:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

The winner will be chosen from those entries and announced January 17, 2014. Good luck!

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code. Winning entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by Rafflecopter and announced here as well as e-mailed, and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Diane at That’s What I’m Here For… and sponsored by the author, Susan J. Reinhardt. The author provided me with a free copy of The Scent of Fear to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a giveaway in return for the free book.VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

Lots of Decor, but No Context

We hear a lot about generics these days. Everything from prescription drugs to clothing has a no-name brand. The big draw is the lower price tag.

I've discovered another kind of generic: the generic holiday. Decorations adorn stores without the context of its meaning. In one store, the decorations were linked with the word, "dream." Ah yes, dream of those clothes and household items, and put them in your cart.

I'm sad today. I miss the Christmas Carols playing, the Merry Christmas greetings, the warmth of society celebrating one of the singular events in history - the birth of Jesus. We're left with the trappings of a holy-day, stripped bare of its meaning.

As a believer, I've committed to keep things in context. While I enjoy the decor and the fun, I'm in awe of the greatest gift I've ever received: forgiveness and a relationship with the One who created heaven and earth, Jesus Christ.

Writers and Readers: Has "generic holiday" sprung up among your retailers? What are some of the things you miss from past celebrations?

Photo Credit: suzz86

An Adoption Story - Guest Blog by Patti Smith

I was going through some boxes and found an Anthology of Student Writing from my son's elementary school. I went directly to a dog-eared page and this is what I found:

THE LONG ROAD HOME

(A True Story)

Bobby Cleghorn

Grade 6

Up until I was 7 I remember that I lived in a truck and under a roller coaster and in motel rooms. When I was 7 my Mom left my sister Bonnie and I in a motel room to go bail my dad out of jail and she never came back. The principal of my school found out that we were left alone and called the police. We were taken to a shelter home. We lived there for a year. Then we went to a foster home with Debi as a foster mom. We stayed there for a year  then Debi and my sister moved to Connecticut. I moved to a group home. I was there for a year till Debi moved back and I went to live with her and my sister again. When I moved back in we both went to a new school. It was a small school. My teacher was really great and the school secretary started taking me to her house on weekends. I also spent Spring Break with her and Don. It was a “test-drive” to see if I would like living in Aguanga with them but I didn't know it.

One day, Debi took Bonnie and me out for ice cream. She wanted to tell us that there were people who wanted to adopt us. Bonnie's teacher in Connecticut wanted her and I guessed many names until Debi said Patti and Don wanted to adopt me. I was really happy about that!

We had to go to court and the judge said that Bonnie could move to Connecticut and I could move in with Patti and Don. I  lived with them a year and we went to court again. The judge said the adoption was final and I was Patti and Don's son forever. After court that day my new mom and dad had a surprise adoption party for me at Stadium Pizza. All the people from my school were there and so were my grandparents and my social worker. I was really surprised! I got really nice gifts and had a fun time.

I talk to my sister on the phone almost every week and we see each other in the summers. We share stories of our new families.

I am now in the sixth grade and still go to the same school. My new teacher is great!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

What a blessing to have found that gem! Robert (I still call him Bobby, much to his dismay) is now 33 and the father of two beautiful daughters.  Even though he's a grown man, I still see that little boy that walked into my office and into my heart so many years ago.

   Then and Now. :)                   

It's Here!

Have you heard? The long-awaited Christmas novella, The Christmas Wish, released on Amazon on Thursday, December 5, 2013. Here's the backcover copy:

Freddie Gilroy faces a bully head-on. His mom and the Director of the homeless shelter  both try different solutions to no avail. When a grown-up begins stalking him, things get totally out of hand.

Norma Gilroy still believes her husband will come back for them. As pressures mount, a former resident works hard to convince her she's wasting her time and that he's the answer to her problems.

Annaliese and Aaron's continued disagreement on how to raise Katie reach a serious impasse. One small boy's faith inspires them to trust God and believe for their own Christmas miracle.

Ellie and John Zimmerman help the Gilroys even though they're weary from their own challenges with The New Patriots. With storm clouds on the horizon, they once again see God's faithfulness in the lives of their friends and family.

http://www.amazon.com/The-Christmas-Wish-Susan-Reinhardt-ebook/dp/B00H4H95KS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1386536500&sr=8-1&keywords=The+Christmas+Wish+by+Susan+J.+Reinhardt+kindle

Writers and Readers: Do you read Christmas novellas? What elements make a Christmas story WOW you?

 

A Hop, Skip, and a Jump

I've been hopping, skipping, and jumping around the Net. Here are a few posts I thought you'd find interesting.

1.  The BloggingBistro had an article on what to do if your Facebook account gets hacked.

BTW, when an established friend sends you a second friend request, their account has most likely been compromised. DO NOT CONFIRM THE REQUEST UNTIL YOU CONTACT THEM THROUGH THEIR BLOG OR WEBSITE. Ask them if they sent the request, and alert them to the possibility they've been hacked.

2.  Have you seen blog with a button to share the posts to multiple sites? I have and wondered how this was achieved. My publisher sent the link to Add This: http://www.addthis.com/?r=0  It's FREE. If this techy-challenged gal can get it on her blog, anyone can!

3.  The Write Conversation posted a fun list of special day in November. If you're looking for ideas, you may find one here.

Writers and Readers:  What social media tips have you picked up lately? If you've tried Add This, please share your experience. Has it generated more hits for your blog?

Photo Credit:  TALUDA

How Veggie Tales Inspired a Novella - Guest Post by Amber Schamel

How Veggie Tales Inspired a Biblical Novella

It was a summer evening, I was in the kitchen making dinner while my little siblings (for some odd reason) were watching The Toy That Saved Christmas, a Veggie-Tales movie. My publisher had asked me to write a Christmas story and I was deep in thought wondering what I should write when I suddenly tuned in to what was playing on the screen.

Grandpa George was reading a scripture to Bob, Larry and Buzz-saw Louie. "And she brought forth her first born son and wrapped him in baby clothes and laid him in a manger."

Whoa, whoa, whoa. Wait a minute, the passage didn't say baby clothes. In the King James it says swaddling clothes. That got me to thinking, what exactly are swaddling clothes? Are they just baby clothes? Or is there another meaning to them?

I looked up the passage in Luke chapter two and noted that it was mentioned not only once, but twice that Mary wrapped her first-born son in swaddling clothes. So I began my research.

I found out that swaddling clothes did not necessarily mean that Mary and Joseph were poor or destitute. Swaddling clothes were used by people of all classes to wrap a newborn in hopes that it would help their limbs grow straight, as well as calm the babe. But if swaddling clothes were so common during that era, why was it specifically mentioned as a sign to the shepherds of who the Messiah would be? So I searched some more.

Another source said that in the eastern countries they would use a cloth to put between the yoke of an ox, and the ox's shoulders. When Mary and Joseph were in the barn, they had nothing else to use, so they used this ox's cloth that was translated as swaddling cloth to wrap the Messiah that would carry the yoke of our sin and bondage.

 Many hours and websites later, I emerged armed with a ton of information, four different theories, and a story forming inside my head. So, I guess you could say that my new book The Swaddling Clothes was inspired by a Veggie Tales movie.

The things that inspire people, or give them an idea is very interesting to me.

What are some odd things that have given you an idea or inspiration?

 

The Swaddling Clothes Synopsis:

Through the ages, many stories have been told about Mary, Joseph and the birth of the Messiah. Stories of shepherds and sheep, kings, angels, and stables. But there is one story that has never been told. One story that has remained hidden in the fabric of time. The story of The Swaddling Clothes.

Mentioned not once, but several times in the Scriptural text, what is the significance of these special cloths? And how did they make their way into a stable in Bethlehem? From the author that brought you the Days of Messiah series comes a whole new adventure critics are calling "intriguing...thought provoking... a fresh twist on an age old story."

"I get tired of Bible stories sometimes, but The Swaddling Clothes brings the story to life."

"Heartwarming...truly inspired. A story you will want to read again and again. Rich details and a suspenseful plot will keep you reading while giving you a glimpse of God's wonderful power and His amazing love."

 Amber Schamel is a multi-published author of Christian Historical Fiction. Her passion for history and culture has led her to travel extensively throughout the United States, Europe, and the Holy Land. Amber is actively involved in her church and enjoys volunteer work and music ministry.  Raised in a family of twelve children and homeschooled throughout her education, she currently resides in the beautiful state of Colorado where she also serves as bookkeeper and marketing director for their family businesses. Find Amber on her blog, or on all the main social media sites.

http://amberschamel.com/
Blog: http://www.stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAmberSchamel
Twitter: @AmberSchamel
Pintrest - http://pinterest.com/AmberDSchamel/

Where Do You Get Ideas?

They say that a picture is worth a thousand words, but in my experience a picture can produce a thousand words. I've drawn inspiration from a number of sources. Here are a few examples:

1.  Often I'll be searching for a graphic and see something that triggers an idea for a blog post or a scene in one of my novels. I like the site, The Stock Exchange.

2.  Pinterest - the ultimate idea place. You can find pictures of clothing from various time periods, food, nature scenes, and just about anything you can imagine.

3.  Special Interest Blogs - I like to visit blogs that talk about hobbies or subjects I find interesting. Characters have hobbies or occupations that can be woven into a plot. Tamara Leigh often gives her characters an obsession with a particular food or activity. One of them, a romance writer, loved decking her nails out in bright red polish.

Whether you're a writer or reader/blogger looking for a quirky character trait, topic for a blog post, or theme for a child's party, a picture can jumpstart your thought processes.

Question for you:  Have you ever been captivated by a picture? What did you do with the idea?

Author Event and Pictures!

Here's a photo of my first author event at a local craft show (October 2013). I had a great time seeing old friends and meeting some new readers.

Here's my display table. Yeah, it needs improvement. Any suggestions? At least the kids enjoyed the candy. :)

Writers and Readers: What are your favorite aspects of author events? 

Guest Post by Author David Stearman

God’s Original*

Psalm 33:25--He fashions their hearts individually.

I got to thinking about our individuality today. Snowflakes, leaves, human voices. It started when a friend of mine, an intelligent, multi-talented model whose image graces the covers of several of my books, texted me about passing her GED. She’d never been able to graduate from high school due to extenuating family challenges, though you’d never know this, since she’s so well-read, self-educated, and accomplished.

Our texts went like this:

Her: I passed my GED with flying colors!

Me: Of course you did. You’re smart.

Her: I am an overachiever with low self esteem. So I surprised myself! Lol

Me: You have no reason, on any level, for having low self esteem. You’re gifted and exceptional. But it’s often the people like that who have low self-esteem, simply because they’re different. Normal people don’t do special things.

Me: Wow. That was good. I should blog it.

Her: Thank you!

Her: Blog it!

So here I am, blogging it. ‘Cause face it; you’re abnormal, right? Don’t look at me in that tone of voice. Of course you are, because you’re an original creation of God.

Snowflakes. Leaves. Human voices…

You were born with your own unique face, personality, and set of talents. Yet you feel inadequate when you compare your own unique characteristics with others’. “She’s taller than me, more petite; better at math, better at English, skinnier, more shapely,” whatever.

…but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise (2 Corinthians 10:12)

It’s impossible to compare the quality of two original paintings created by the same artist. Though Monet painted both Water Lilies and Sunrise, they can never be measured against each other for superlatives. One’s not better than the other; they’re just different. Like you and me.

God, the master Artist, created each of us individually.

For you formed my inward parts; you covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Marvelous are your works, and that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in secret and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed, and in your book they all were written; the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. (Psalm 139: 13-16)

But God not only created us individually, He also created us as individuals. So you’re not normal, and neither am I. There is no normal, there’s only you, me, and all those other weirdos, each of us with his or her own special beauty, significance and purpose. So be yourself and be proud of it. You’re God’s original.

Today’s prayer: God, today I’m gonna be me. I won’t try to imitate anyone else, for you gave me my own, beautiful individuality. I’ll walk tall in it and be proud of who I am: a unique creation of God.

*The above post is an excerpt from David’s 90-day devotional “Encouragement Explosion--90 Days of Uplift,” available from Amazon here: http://www.amazon.com/Encouragement-Explosion-90-Days-Uplift-ebook/dp/B00FRHXE68, as well as from Barnes, Noble, KoboBooks, and other fine online retailers.       

We Interrupt Our Regularly-Scheduled Blog...

We interrupt our regularly scheduled blog for an announcement:  The second book in my trilogy, The Scent of Fear, released on Thursday, November 21, 2013!

Here's the backcover blurb:

The Zimmermans enjoy the tenuous peace in the wake of their hair-raising year battling the New Patriots. Unexpected visitors once again throw them into turmoil.

Jim Kenneman, Director of National Security, masterminded the plan to break up a hate group ravaging the Christian community. Now, his enemies are out to eliminate him. Should he make a run for it or stick by his tried-and-true negotiating skills?

Monty Addison, a topnotch operative, carried out his assignment in Bird-in-Hand. A plot to destroy his boss sends him on a mission. Without agency sanction, it may cost him everything - his career, his family, and maybe his life.

Dr. Abby Weaver strives to save infants and toddlers in Holmes County, Ohio. When she meets two strangers, she can't get the tall, handsome one out of her mind. Will their paths intersect again or will dangerous times keep them apart?

Available on Amazon.

On My Nightstand - Shadowed in Silk by Christine Lindsay

Abby Fraser travels to India with her young son, Cam, to join her husband. Strong and determined, she's ready to make a life with the man she knew for a few weeks before he went off to war.

Major Geoffrey Richards comes to Abby's rescue when her husband fails to meet her ship. He's back from a devastating war and has the emotional scars to prove it. He's torn between his faith and the brutality of his countrymen.

Plots by a Russian spy and those wanting freedom for India ramp up the intrigue and danger. A horrible event, a kidnapping, and betrayal bring the story to a gripping climax.

Christine Lindsay takes us to exotic India during the days of the British Raj. The sights, noises, and smells are shown in vivid detail. As I read, my mind was in her story world 100%.

The characters are as diverse and colorful as the setting. Even the peripheral characters are given special attention.

I'm always excited when I discover a new-to-me author, whose book transports me to another era. I can't wait to read Christine's other books and novellas.

Disclaimer: I won this book in a blog giveaway and have not received any payment for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Writers and Readers:  What new authors have you discovered lately? What made their work "sing?"

Making Peace With Christmas - Guest Post by Sheila Seiler Lagrand

Sheila Lagrand is a fellow Helping Hands Press author. Welcome, Sheila! Thanks for guest posting here today. 

In my strident youth I was a Christmas militant. I railed against the displays of candy canes and chocolate snowmen lurking about the bags of Halloween candy. I fumed as tinsel mingled with the harvest cornucopia in some kind of mall marketing miscegenation. I averted my eyes when neighbors’ Christmas lights brightened the street before we had celebrated Thanksgiving.

Not this year. Maybe it’s because I’m not as young as I used to be. Maybe it’s because the grandchild count has risen to nine—which means more gifts, more wrapping, more time to dream up selections that say I love you. Maybe it’s because I’m traveling across an ocean to spend Christmas with my daughter, her Navy-Chief husband, and their children on Guam. For all these reasons, I have overcome my Christmas-season-snobbery. Never again, Lord help me, will I judge the mom scooping up the latest Legos in October.

And never again will I jam all the gift-choosing, making, ordering, or buying into the precious few weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. It was a legalistic maneuver all along, I see now, not a decision born of grace and joy. And what is more important at Christmastime than grace and joy? As I consider it today, I can’t even remember why I thought it was such an achievement to exhaust myself by squeezing every bit of preparation into a few short weeks.

After all these hard-line years, it’s been deliciously daring to choose gifts in October, to be laying in stores of red-and-green tissue during the first crisp days of autumn.  Once I committed to changing my approach, and my attitude, about the Christmas schedule, I reaped an unexpected bonus: The rejoicing heart, the sense of blessedness as I reflect on the priceless gift of our Savior, the real key elements to the Christmas season, they kicked in early, too. Instead of three or four weeks of an overflowing heart, I’ve enjoyed the jubilation since late October.

I understand better now the friend who sings carols in March, the heart-sister who displays a Christmas tree all year long. I’ve been cheating myself out of a heap of exultation. So if we cross paths at the beach next summer, please don’t be surprised if I greet you with a hearty “Merry Christmas!” 

You can meet Sheila at http://sheilalagrand.com 

Writers and Readers: When do you start looking for special gifts for Christmas?
 
Photo Credit: greenolive

A New Perspective

Not long ago, my best friend passed away. It seems that grief takes on a different meaning with each loved one I lose, as well as my age when it occurs.

As a pre-teen, my grandfather died of a heart attack. Pain struck, swift and sure. Yet, I was able to bounce back in a fairly short time. Years later, my father went to be with the Lord. His death was sudden, and his absence was hard to accept. For a long time, I kept looking at his favorite chair expecting to see him.

My husband's death broke all previous records for hurt. Although he was sick for 14 months, the intensity stunned me. The vision of a paperdoll ripped in two embedded in my mind. For a time, all I wanted was for the Lord to take me as well. As more people I loved departed this life, my homesickness for heaven grew.

This recent loss was so unexpected that it took on a surreal quality. I'd talked to her a few days before. How could she be gone? The messages she left on my answering machine were full of life. Yet, I could no longer email her with a funny story or make plans for a visit. A gaping hole was left where she prayed for me, gave advice, and shared life events.

As the Lord began healing my broken heart, I thought about how I could incorporate the different stages of mourning into my writing. It's one thing to look at the panorama of loss with the naked eye and quite another to see things under the magnification of personal experience. Here are a few things I learned:

1.  The variety of emotions and thoughts that went through my head defied all logic. Although I knew each of them were with the Lord and the separation was temporary, it changed my way of life.

2.  We'd built relationships, lived life together, created memories. After they departed, those things brought pain because that chapter closed. Only as the Lord brought new connections and new memories did those times once again bring joy and laughter.

3.  I understood how someone losing a mate ran the risk of dying within a few years. Grief left unchecked can sap the will to live. Indeed, I almost joined him within the first year.

I came to terms with these losses, each so individual and affecting me on various levels. God had me here for a purpose. My life belonged to Him, and I would move forward until my earthly sojourn completed its course.

Writers and Readers: How have fictional stories affected your view of death and dying? Have you found comfort in the midst of pain? Please share.

Photo credit: Vincitrice

Flighty Friday

As I've flown from one blog to another, I've discovered some interesting posts.

1.  Hilary Melton-Butcher, at Positive Letters, did a fascinating post of glass books. Yes, I said, "glass!"

2. Sarah Martin Byrd talks about marketing your writing at festivals. 

3. Zoe McCarthy gives us tips on how to find the "sweet spot" with readers.

Writers: What are some writing techniques you use to connect with your audience?

Readers: Books come in all shapes, sizes, and mediums these days. What's your favorite - print, e-book, coffee table books, paperbacks, hardcover, or some other type?

Photo Credit: luisrock62

An Announcement From My Publisher

My publisher requested I post this announcement.

A WORD FROM HELPING HANDS PRESS, THE PUBLISHERS OF Amazon Top 100 AUTHORS SARAH PRICE AND WHOOPIE PIE PAM JARRELL’S #1 BEST-SELLING STORY- “The Divine Sisterhood of the Whoopie Pie Sisters Trilogy”.

Hi,

We would like to thank all of the wonderful readers that have purchased, read, and reviewed Book I and Book II of the #1 Best–Selling Trilogy “The Divine Sisterhood of The Whoopee Pie Sisters” by Amazon Top 100 authors Sarah Price and Whoopie Pie Pam Jarrell.

Good news about the Trilogy!
The price of Book II was originally $1.99 but has just been lowered to $.99.
Here is the Amazon Kindle link: http://www.amazon.com/Divine-Secrets-Whoopie-Pie-Sisters-ebook

Anyone that has purchased Book II at the $1.99 price is welcome to come to the Helping Hands Press Facebook page, message us there, and we will be happy to send you some amazing stories to compensate you for the price reduction. 

Remember: there is only one dynamic author duo named Sarah Price and Whoopie Pie Pam Jarrell, and there is only one original series named, “The Divine Sisterhood of The Whoopie Pie Sisters.” Accept no imitations!

The Cat's Out of the Bag

At my late friend's Celebration of Life service, I shared a few brief thoughts. Part of it involved a little-known nickname she used for me. Afterward, the pastor who officiated, came up to me. "I'll never think of you as Susan again. You'll always be Suze in my mind."

Several others commented on the moniker, and I had to chuckle in spite of the sad occasion. The cat was out of the bag. Now others knew the nickname used by my uncle and a few close friends.

Any time you share something on social media, in a blog post (like this one), or in a public setting, be prepared. "The cat's out of the bag." And, guess what? There's no way to get it back into the bag. So, if you don't want it out there, don't say it.

Now you know. One of my nicknames (my favorite because my uncle gave it to me) is Suze (pronounced Sooz).

Writers and Readers: Have you ever "let the cat out of the bag" in an interview or blog post? Please share.

HC 101 Blog Tour - Karen Lange

Thinking about joining or starting a homeschool co-op? Not sure if a co-op is a good fit? Homeschool Co-ops 101 weighs the pros, cons, and creative options available for today’s homeschool family.

• Section 1 includes essential, digestible info on co-op ingredients such as planning and organization, schedules, teaching, finances, and addressing conflict and burnout.
• Section 2 shares a sampling of co-op games and activities, and
• Section 3 contains five hands-on unit studies. These ready to use studies include lessons on Leonardo da Vinci, Birds of Prey, Public Speaking, Tall Tales, and Creative Writing, and are suitable for co-op or home use. This section also includes unit study guidelines that are easily customized to suit any topic.
• Section 4 offers suggested books, curriculum, and other resources.

Karen Lange has gathered insight from years of co-oping and now shares her own and others’ experiences in this valuable and encouraging handbook.

Homeschool Co-ops 101 is available at:

~~~Amazon~~~

~~~Barnes and Noble~~~

~~~Kobo~~~

About the Author

Karen Lange, her husband, and three children were active in co-ops during their sixteen-year homeschool journey. Her experience includes serving as a local homeschool support group coordinator and consultant for a state homeschool network in New Jersey. Karen’s children have since graduated, and she is now a freelance writer and online writing instructor for homeschooled teens.

You can connect with Karen at her Blog, on Twitter, and Facebook.

Blog Tour Schedule

November 4
~Ruth Schiffman, http://outonalimbshywritergoessocial.blogspot.com/
~Robyn Campbell, http://robyn-campbell.blogspot.com/

November 5
~Carol Alexander, http://lessonsfromthehomestead.com/blog/

~Diane Estrella, www.dianeestrella.com

November 6
~Gena Mayo, ichoosejoy.org

~Marja Meijers, http://sacredsabbath.blogspot.com/

November 7
~Sandie Crozek, http://chattycrone.blogspot.com/

~Melissa Brander, http://mkbrander.com/

~Cecelia Lester, http://quietspirit-followingmyking.blogspot.com/

November 8
~Susan Reinhardt, http://www.susanjreinhardt.com/

~Cecelia Lester, http://quietspirit-followingmyking.blogspot.com/

November 10

~Laura V. Hilton, http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com/

~Melissa & Tiffany, http://www.homegrownfamilies.net

~Janette Dolores, http://janettedolores.blogspot.com

November 11
~Susan Sundwall, www.sundwallsays.blogspot.com

~Michelle Isenhoff, http://www.michelleisenhoff.com/wp

November 12
~Carol Alexander, http://lessonsfromthehomestead.com/blog/

~Jeanette Levellie, http://www.jeanettelevellie.com/

November 13
~Susanne Dietze, http://susannedietze.blogspot.com/
~Sherryl Wilson, simplysherryl.com

~Anne Payne, duhpaynes.blogspot.com

November 14
~Rhonda Schrock, http://www.rhondaschrock.com/rhondas_blog/
~Abi Buening, http://myheartbelongs2books.blogspot.com/

~Amber Schamel, http://www.amberschamel.com/history-blog.html

~Renee, motherdaughterbookreviews.com

November 15
~Crystal King, http://asimpleheartforhome.blogspot.com/
~Barb Winters, inthemidstof.wordpress.com/

~Tyrean Martinson, http://tyreanswritingspot.blogspot.com/

November 16

~Julie, soaringeagle8.blogspot.com

~Sarah, myjoyfilledlife.com

November 17
~Amada Chavez, ascphotosanddesigns.blogspot.com

~Cindi Clubbs, http://ccclubbs.com/

~Rebecca Boerner, http://ohiohomeschool.blogspot.com/

November 18

~Carlene Havel, https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6440085.Carlene_Havel/blog

November 19

~Karen Loethen, http://taytayhser.blogspot.com.au/

~Amy Smith, myseasonsofopportunities.blogspot.com/

November 20

~Darlene Arroyo-Lozada, http://lovebookslozada.blogspot.com/

November 22

~Sarah Bailey, http://growingforchrist.wordpress.com

~Thumb Updown, http://momsthumb.blogspot.com/

December 2

~Jennifer Shirk, http://jennifershirk.blogspot.com/

~Ticia M., http://adventuresinmommydom.org/

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The Giveaway

Open to US addresses only. One person will receive a $25 Amazon GC and a copy of Homeschool Co-ops 101. Please use the Rafflecopter below to be entered:

a Rafflecopter giveaway


The winner will be chosen from those entries and announced December 5, 2013. Good luck!

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code. Winning entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by Rafflecopter and announced here as well as e-mailed, and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Diane at That’s What I’m Here For… and sponsored by the author, Karen Lange. The author provided me with a free copy of Homeschool Co-ops 101 to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a giveaway in return for the free book.VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

Homeschool Co-ops 101 Blog Tour Questions (Q&A)


What prompted you to write this book?


Thanks so much for inviting me over to your blog! I’m looking forward to visiting with you and your followers.


About ten years ago, I was encouraged by a good friend in the homeschool community to write a booklet about co-ops. She was the director of a statewide homeschool support network, and she knew people often asked me about how a co-op works. The booklet seemed like a good way to share the info, so I self published it. In May of 2013, Helping Hands Press offered me a contract to expand it, so here we are!


What can readers expect to find in the book?

The book offers info on how to start a co-op and weighs the pros, cons, and creative options available for homeschool families. One thing I emphasize is that parents have options when it comes to co-oping. Co-ops come in all sizes and sometimes an existing one is not a good fit for a family. Parents shouldn’t feel bad or be intimidated if this is the case; they need to know that it’s okay to either not participate and even start their own co-op if they wish.
 
Another thing to note is that HC 101's usefulness is not limited to just homeschoolers. The how to section offers helpful setup and structure tips for other K-12 student groups. The activity segment has lessons, games, and hands on projects that suit these groups as well.


Here is a breakdown of each section of the book:


Section 1 includes info on co-op ingredients such as planning and organization, schedules, teaching, finances, and addressing conflict and burnout. Section 2 has a sampling of co-op games and activities, and Section 3 contains five hands-on unit studies. The topics include lessons on Leonardo da Vinci, Birds of Prey, Public Speaking, Tall Tales, and Creative Writing, and are suitable for co-op or individual home use. Section 3 also includes unit study guidelines that are easily customized to suit any topic. Section 4 offers suggested books, curriculum, and other resources.


Tell us a little about your homeschool experience.


My husband and I homeschooled our three children (two sons and a daughter) in grades K-12. We chose to homeschool because, among other things, we wanted to personalize our children’s education and felt home was the best place to do that. During this time, we were active with our local homeschool support group’s events such as field trips and science and art fairs. Co-ops played an important role too. These activities helped supplement our studies, provided balanced socialization, fellowship, and fun. They also offered a broader worldview as our children interacted with not just homeschool families, but the surrounding community.


If you happen to be interested in more info about the ups and downs of homeschooling, socialization, higher education, and other related topics, visit this link: http://www.insanitek.net/ink/archives/865


What would you like readers to take away from the book?


No one plan fits everyone, so I encourage families, whether they decide to co-op or not, to find the right balance and fit for them. My hope is that they would find ideas and encouragement for their children’s educational journey.


Thanks again for sharing your space with me today. It’s been a pleasure!