Jo Huddleston

Why Am I Doing This?

2012-02-23T07:00:00.000-06:00

Guest blogger today is Tiffany Colter, a writing career coach. Welcome, Tiffany and thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.

Dreams are funny things.

No, really, they are.

Think about it for a moment. You arestanding at a kitchen sink with two kids in diapers and a third on the way.Suddenly you think, “I’m going to travel across the country speaking to businessgroups and writers. I’ll publish a book for other people. I’ll help other peoplewrite their own books. People will value my opinion.”

And then a scream from the high chairrips you back to reality.

But somehow that image in your mindwon’t let go.

It builds. You find yourself readingbooks on business. Instead of relaxing after the babies are in bed you’repouring over books and websites learning all you can about writing craft,business development, and public speaking.

You buy second hand clothes and secondhand cars while your friends are going out to eat at the mall after fillingtheir handled bags with trendy outfits and shoes.

And still, somehow, you feel freer thanyou did when you worked 9-5.

And after almost a decade of 16 hourdays you look around your kitchen table and see four kids growing up. You’retalking about interviewing your new employees and the training you’re doing foryour sales team.

And then you turn around and look at thesink. The one you stood at when it all started. The car is still old, but theoutfits are new. You earn less than anyone on your staff, but that will changesoon.

Somehow through it all you birthedsomething big. An idea in your mind is now reality. You have a speakingschedule and book tables. People you once idolized now ask your professionalopinion. You look on with pride as your clients see their dreams come true.Your name doesn’t appear anywhere on their book [at least not usually], but itwas birthed from your heart as well as theirs.

And your kids…well, they aren’t onlyfocused on who they’ll work for or what they want to be. They talk about whatthey want to create. The company they want to build. The industry they want toinfluence. The story they want to write.

Sometimes we wonder why we're doing whatit is we're doing. We may think that we started out because we felt wecould do what our boss is doing better. So we began this new excitingcompany and we found out that it was nothing more than long hours, no pay, noprestige and hard decisions.

You may be at the place now where you're wondering why you even started this. You have no income security. You have no market. You have norest. You have to work constantly just to keep up. You don't have alife.

That's what I'm going to talk to you about changing. Being a smallbusiness owner is not just about doing the work. That's the topic of thatcompany. If you are a designer, having a small business is not just aboutdesign work. It's about marketing your business and expanding it and workingwith clients and building new markets and doing all the fun creative thingsoutside of simply designing things and that's what we're going to talk abouthere.

I know you may be thinking well, wait a minute. There's nothing fun aboutthat. I started this company because I wanted to design stuff. Iwanted to be my own boss. Yes, well that's true. What this willallow you to do is look at the new ways that you can be creative as a businessowner. Don't try to make your business a cookie cutter of other designbusinesses or other insurance businesses or other dentist offices or anything. What is going to distinguish you and set you apart? That's whyyou're doing this. You have something different to offer and you want tooffer it.

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Tiffany Colter, The Writing Career Coach

Don’t miss a single posting! Subscribe here to receive thesepostings by e-mail. Tiffany Colter is a writer, speaker and writing career coach who works withbeginner to published writers. She can be reached through her website at writingcareercoach.com.

Can You Say Pollen?

2012-02-20T07:00:00.000-06:00

The winner of last Thursday's drawing for a copy ofSummer of Promise by Amanda Cabot is Tammie. I'll email you today to get yourmailing address and get the book out to you. Thanks all for commenting. Watchfor more book giveaways.

Monday Musing on This ‘N That

Can you saypollen? Merriam-Webster online dictionary defines pollen as a mass of microspores ina seed plant appearing usually as a fine dust. The key words in that definitionthat mean anything to me are “a mass of fine dust.” And that mass of fine dust inthe south is yellow and comes through breezes that pass over plants when theyare in the early stages of blooming.

Andblooming is expected to begin in spring, not in winter. It’s February! Weshouldn’t have pollen in February. But already I’m seeing crocus pushingthrough the ground and in full bloom. My yellow wisteria is blooming. Even forsouth Alabama this is not the norm. February is usually our coldest month.

Iknow winter is not officially over. But all the moderate and downright warmdays we’ve had recently have the flowers confused. And therefore, pollen. Justabout everyone you talk with mentions they have a sinus infection, whichsometimes is just an aggravation or sometimes a full-blown, put-me-in-the-bed,sick.

Ourwinter has been so mild here in south Alabama and I’ve had two sinus infectionsthat required medical attention and treatment. So, today I have another (myguess) and will be going to see the doctor tomorrow. Last time I got a shot and pills. Hope I get the same tomorrow.

We’vehad ice storms and snows here as late as March and April. We usually get a“cold snap” right before Easter, which is in early April this year. We’llprobably have more cold weather before the weather feels like spring. In thesouth we need a very cold winter to kill off the bugs. Honestly! I don’t thinkwe’ve killed off very many so far.

Ihope you and your families are well and stay well. Here’s to good health forall.

Till next time ... keep on smiling!

Win a Book!

2012-02-16T07:00:00.000-06:00

ThursdayThoughts on Reading and Writing

Whenyou leave a comment on THIS post by 6 p.m. CT Sunday, February 12, 2012, you'llbe entered in the drawing for a copy of the book I review below. You must beeighteen, a U.S. resident, void where prohibited.

Summer ofPromise by Amanda Cabot

AmandaCabot is a popular speaker and the author of numerous novels. She’s an avidtraveler who finds inspiration for new stories in her travels and enjoyssharing new parts of the country with her readers. A former Easterner, she nowlives in Wyoming.

From the book’s back cover

Thoughshe had planned to spend the summer in Vermont, Abigail Harding cannot dismissher concerns over her older sister. Charlotte’s letters have beenuncharacteristically melancholy, and her claims that nothing is wrong ringfalse, so Abigail heads west to Fort Laramie, Wyoming. When her stagecoach isattacked, Wyoming promises to be anything but boring. Luckily, the heroics ofanother passenger, Lieutenant Ethan Bowles, save the day.

Abigailplans to marry when she returns to Vermont, just as soon as she attends to hersister. As the summer passes, she finds herself drawn to this rugged land andto a certain soldier determined to persuade her to stay. When summer ends, willshe go back East, or will she find her heart’s true home?

From Jo

Amanda Cabot writescompelling novels. This one is no exception. Her characters are strong,including: Abigail Harding who is traveling from Vermont to Fort Laramie,Wyoming; her sister Charlotte who needs Abigail; soldiers at the Fort; andLeah, a “lady of the night,” whom Abigail befriends. At summer’s end willAbigail return to Vermont as planned, or be convinced to stay? Cabot’s story isfast moving with enough suspense to keep readers turning pages.

Remember to leave a comment on THIS post by 6 p.m. CT Sunday, February19, 2012, and you'll be entered in the drawing for acopy of Where Wildflowers Bloom.U.S. residents only, void where prohibited. Please remember to leaveyour email address so that should you be the winner I can get in touch with youfor your mailing address.

Till next time … keep on smiling.

A Morning Person

2012-02-13T07:00:00.000-06:00

The winner of last Thursday's drawing for a copy of Where the Wildflowers Bloom by Ann Shorey is Linda. I'll email you today to get your mailing address and get the book out to you. Thanks all for commenting. Watch for more book giveaways.

MondayMusings on This ‘N That

Last Friday I had to get up two and a halfhours before my usual getting-up time. I’m not a morning person!! I tried tomove as I should to get things done so we could leave on our trip.

While fixing my breakfast I noticedmovements outside the kitchen window. I saw several birds flitting from limb tolimb to limb. It was barely daybreak and they were frolicking and seemed to beenjoying the new day.

I saw squirrels and chipmunks scampering aroundon the ground and some little birds pecking at the grass. I wondered if allthese creatures were this active at every day’s dawning.

Visiting my grandparents, at early morning hours I had heardroosters crow and hens cluck. I'd heard pigs squeal and mules make thatdistinctive sound they make—is it called braying or is that donkeys? But seeing all thesecity-dwellers doing their thing when I would normally still be asleep was aneye-opener. No pun intended.

Once in the car and starting on our trip Inoticed one overhead wire covered with birds sitting on it. As I’ve askedbefore, wonder how the little bird feet hang on when the winds come.

Then yesterday morning I saw movement outside thewindow near my computer. Adult birds were all over our front lawn. They wereall busy pecking at the grass and were easy for me to count. Forty-six birdswere in my yard! They had reddish breasts so they must have been red-breastedrobins. You think? And as birds do, theyall flew away at the same time. Wonder who gives the signal for a group flight?

I have a new appreciation for God’screatures, seeing how they start their day. Maybe I can adopt some of their apparent glee in the early morning--could I really come to better enjoy mornings? And then seeing 46 birds visitingmy lawn. Could any of this be fodder for a novel?

Are you a morning person?

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Win A Book!

2012-02-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

When you leave a comment on THIS post by 6 p.m. CT Sunday, February 12, 2012, you'll be entered in the drawing for a copy of the book I review below. You must be eighteen, a U.S. resident, void where prohibited.

Where Wildflowers Bloom by Ann Shorey

Ann Shorey is the author of The Edge of Light, The Promise of Morning, and The Dawn of a Dream. She has also published selections in the Cup of Comfort series and in Chicken Soup for the Grandma's Soul. Shorey lives with her husband, Richard,in Oregon.

From the book's back cover
The Civil War stole a father and brother from Faith Lindberg--as well as Royal Baxter, the man she wanted to marry. With only her grandfather left, she dreams of leaving Noble Springs, Missouri,and traveling west to Oregon to start a new life, sway from the memories that haunt her. But first she much convince her grandfather to sell the family's mercantile and leave a town their family has called home for generations. When Royal Baxter suddenly returns, Faith allows herself to hope that she and Royal will finally wed. But does he truly love her? Or will another man claim her heart?

From Jo
Shorey gives us strong andmemorable characters. As her plot unfolds she keeps putting obstacles in theway of Faith Lindberg’s dream to go west to Oregon and leave her sad memoriesof the Civil War behind. This story takes one twist after another and kept meturning pages. Not until the last pages does Faith resolve her dream of Oregon.

Remember to leave a comment on THIS post by 6 p.m. CT Sunday, February 12, 2012, and you'll be entered in the drawing for a copy of Where Wildflowers Bloom. U.S. residents only, void where prohibited. Please remember to leave your email address so that should you be the winner I can get in touch with you for your mailing address.

Questions for God

2012-02-06T07:00:00.000-06:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

The winners from last Thursday's blog post for a copy of An Amish Family Reunion are Loree and Cindy. Loree, I'll email you to get your mailing address. Cindy, I'll send Mary Ellis your info from your comment and she will be in touch with you. Congratulations to you both.

I don’t understand some godly things. I’m certain if God wanted me to understand ALL His ways it would be written in His word, The Holy Bible.

Something I try not to wonder about, but I can’t help it, I just do: Why do babies and little children become sick, some even severely sick? But again if He wanted me to know the answer to this He would have made it clear in The Holy Bible.

It sure is difficult to witness a small child lethargic with high fever. Those who can’t tell you where they hurt are the saddest cases. They just don’t understand why they can’t run and play as usual.

Sometimes I say the first thing I want to do when I get to Heaven is ask Jesus this question about babies and children getting sick and probably a few more questions. But will I?

In Heaven, because it is a perfect place we won’t be concerned with earthly things. We’ll be busy praising and glorifying God. What a day that will be!

What do you think? Do you have questions for God? But will you forget those questions once you get to Heaven?

TWO Mary Ellis books!!

2012-02-05T16:46:00.000-06:00

Mary (Ellis) emailed me today and wants to give away TWO copies of An Amish Family Reunion on my blog. I will draw a winner who will receive one copy and draw a second winner who will receive a copy from Mary. What a generous offer, Mary.

Tell your reader-friends about the TWO books. The contest is open until midnight today, Feb 5

Win A Book!

2012-02-02T07:00:00.000-06:00

When you leave a comment on THIS post by midnight Sunday, February 5, 2012, you'll be entered in the drawing for a copy of the book I review below. You must be eighteen, a U.S. resident, void where prohibited.

An Amish Family Reunion by Mary Ellis

Mary Ellis, best selling inspirational author of seven Amish novels, grew up close to the eastern Ohio Amish community, Geauga County, where her parents often took her to farmer’s markets and woodworking fairs. She loved their peaceful, agrarian lifestyle, their respect for the land, and their strong sense of Christian community. She, her husband, dog and cat now live close to the largest population of Amish in the country—a four-county area in central Ohio. They often take weekend trips to purchase produce, research for her best-selling books, and enjoy a simpler way of life. Visit her at her website, www.maryellis.net.

From the book's back cover

Julia Miller misses her children.They are grown and have families of their own now, but her mother's heart yearns for a houseful of laughter and joy once again. She plans to gather her chicks together in a summer celebration to remember.

At the farm next door, Julia's niece, Phoebe, meets Eli Riehl, a young man who charms her--and everyone else--with his exceptional storytelling ability on a rumschpringe trip to Niagara Falls. When Phoebe sketches scenes to illustrate one of his tales, Eli encourages her incredible talent, and together they embark on a lofty and unlikely business venture for two young Amish people--writing and illustrating a children's book.

Eli's kindness and appeal extend beyond his knack for words to reach inside Phoebe's shy heart. But he is an only son with five sisters, and when tragedy strikes at home, Eli gives up his writing to assume responsibility for the farm. Though willing to abandon his dream of becoming an author, he won't give up his beloved Phoebe.

Can their love for a good story develop into something that lasts forever, or will memories of the past stand in their way?

From Jo

Mary Ellis is well equipped to write Amish novels with memorable characters and this one is no exception. From reading Amish novels I've learned of their simple, but protective life. Among the Amish, their strict rules must be obeyed and it is usually the father of the family that comes across as rather harsh when enforcing those rules. Phoebe's father is such a man and protests when she asks permission to go on a bus trip to Niagara Falls so she can find new things besides farm animals that she can draw. Phoebe's mother convinces the father to allow Phoebe the trip as it will be all Amish young people. On that trip she meets Eli and her sheltered life will never be the same.

Remember to leave a comment on THIS post by midnight Sunday, February 5, 2012, and you'll be entered in the drawing for a copy of An Amish Family Reunion.book I review below. U.S. residents only, void where prohibited. Please remember to leave your email address so that should you be the winner I can get in touch with you for your mailing address.

P.S.

2012-01-30T08:41:00.000-06:00

The winner of J. Mark Bertrand's book, Pattern of Woulds, from comments on last Thursday's blog is ....
Jeannie. Congratulations. I'll email you today to get your mailing address and get your book to you.

Seeing Double

2012-01-30T07:00:00.001-06:00

Monday Musing on This ‘N That

Anybody out there have a reason why I’m seeing double of almost anything I look at? The second image I see is always to the right of and level with the original; sometimes the second image is a little lower than the original. Occasionally when meeting cars (I’m not driving!), a second image of the car crosses the center line and comes straight toward our car. When the “real” car goes on by the ghost image disappears. Only once have I had this double thing while looking at the computer screen; it was wild and I just walked away to come back later.

Okay so if you do or don’t have a reason why, do you know a remedy?

I’ve been to my local ophthalmologist, who totally does not know what’s going on. He sent me to a neuro-ophthalmologist in another city who did numerous tests I’ve never had done on my eyes even though I’ve used corrective lenses since I was 12 years old. I have a second appointment with him in April. In the meantime he wants me to go back to my local ophthalmologist, get a new pair of glasses with prisms in both lenses and use “artificial tears” drops four times a day. Prisms? What’s that in glasses?

The neuro man has me scheduled in February for an MRI covering from my waist to the top of my head. I think he’s probably trying to eliminate and hoping he can diagnose the problem at the same time.

This is a medical problem that has no pain. It would be almost comical seeing all those cars coming toward us if such a puzzling thing weren’t going on. Wonder how I’ll look with my new prism glasses? Maybe I can use them to watch 3D movies; nah, guess not.

Now I’m in a place similar to publishing a book—wait and see what happens next. I welcome any suggestions, cures, or remedies.

Until next time … keep on smiling.

Win This Book!

2012-01-26T07:00:00.008-06:00

Thursdays Thoughts on Reading ‘N Writing

When you leave a comment on THIS post by midnight Sunday, January 29, 2012, you'll be entered in the drawing for a copy of the book I review below.

Pattern of Wounds, A Roland March Mystery by J. Mark Bertrand.

J. Mark Bertrand has an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Houston. After one hurricane too many, he left Houston and relocated with his wife, Laurie, to the plans of South Dakota Find out more about Mark and the ROLAND MARCH series at www.jmarkbertrand.com.

From the book’s back cover

It’s Christmas in Houston, and homicide detective Roland March is on the hunt for a killer. A young woman’s brutal stabbing in an affluent neighborhood bears all the hallmarks of a serial murder. The only problem is that March sent the murderer to prison ten years ago. Is it a copycat—or did March convict the wrong man?

Alienated from his colleagues, and with a growing rift in his marriage, March receives a series of taunting messages from the killer. The bodies pile up, the pressure builds, and the violence reaches too close to home. Up against an unfathomable evil, March struggles against the clock to understand the hidden message in the pattern of wounds.

From Jo

After reading this fascinating book, I feel I would recognize Roland March if I met him on the sidewalk. Bertrand writes his characters with all their moles and also their goodness and his scene descriptions are vivid. Action flows without a lull. If you want a page-turner, this book is for you. If you enjoy the fast paced writing of James Patterson you’ll love this book. Can’t wait for the next novel in this series, there just has to be one, and you’ll know why when you read this great novel—at the book's end I kept looking for the next page. Now that’s a cliff hanger!

I thank Mark for giving me a copy of Pattern of Wounds, which one of you could win. Remember to leave a comment on THIS blog by midnight Sunday, January 29 to be eligible for the drawing of a copy of this book. You must be 18 years old and a resident of the U.S. to be eligible for this drawing. Neither I nor my family members are eligible to enter. Winner will be announced on my Monday blog. Remember to please leave your email address so that I can reach you should you win the book.

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

Murphy's Law

2012-01-23T07:00:00.017-06:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

Have you ever noticed this when you and your husband/date/friend/appointment go out to eat? With more empty tables than full tables, inevitably the next customer chooses to sit at the adjacent table! I’ve actually been in a fast food place and was the only seated customer and guess what? You guessed it—the next customer gets their food and sits right next to me.

Another thing that happens to me—when I like a particular place to eat then it goes out of business. That’s understandable within our current economy. But years ago this same thing happened. One restaurant was close to the mall and a favorite of ours because of their great salad bar. Yep. They closed it only to reopen next to the interstate where the traffic is horrible; we don’t go there anymore.

Same thing happens with TV shows I like. Now, I don’t watch much TV AT ALL except the tennis grand slams. So it is rare that I see something advertised in the paper that I’d think I would like. I do and get hooked on it. Then one week I get my popcorn ready and settle in on the couch to watch it but it’s gone. Poof! So there I am with an hour’s worth of popcorn and other snacks and nothing to watch.

I never indulge in more than one TV show in a season. So when it’s cancelled, then I have more time to read. However, I hesitate to read a new book or library copy with buttery popcorn fingers. So I just sit and eat my snacks and think and pray. Some of you may think that’s better than any TV show anyway.

One thing I’m certain of—I will be close to devastated if TNT ever takes off “The Closer.” Now that’s MY show. Brenda Lee, bless her heart, isn’t she a sweet, tough as nails, kind of woman? I remember the great job she did with her matter-of-fact role in the movie, Let’s Give Them Something to Talk About as Julia Roberts’ sister. When I saw that movie, Kyra Sedgwick had a loyal fan.

Anyway, what is this—Murphy’s Law? "Anything that can go wrong usually will,” or similar wording. When I say Murphy’s Law I always smile because I see the irony and I am a positive thinking person!

So do you notice any of these or other little things that happen around you?

Please leave a comment to tell me if the text size in the first paragraph above is too large, too small, just right.

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

I Will Do X When Y

2012-01-19T07:00:00.004-06:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

Our guest blogger today is Tifffany Colter who is a writer, speaker, and writing career coach who works with beginner to published writers.

I will do X when Y

By Tiffany Colter

I remember back in my late teens or early twenties reading one of those nifty little quotes we all like. The sum of it was I’ll change my life after the next thing happens. The summary of the little “story” was that there is never the perfect time to do things, so do it now before your life is over.

That poem made such a huge impact on me I actually blogged about it a while back [Grow where you’re planted]. However, my personality type is one who plans. In college I had to write meals on my “to-do” list or I would find them a distraction to my tasks and simply not eat.

I’ve softened a bit since those days, but to make “taking that leap” a bit easier for those who plan I’ve put together a small list for you.

1. Keep your heart and thoughts on the dream, your mind in the game. You have to know why it is you’re doing what you’re doing. I’ve found this true in my writing career and in building my business. By focusing on the end result you can force yourself to do the things you don’t really feel like doing. The danger is you’ll spend so much time day-dreaming that you get nothing accomplished, so have clear steps and a definite plan for each day or week.

2. Create trigger points. Decide where your point of overwhelm is and then look at the step before that and have help ready. When my company began to grow, I knew when I was editing more than three books at a time I would need help watching my kids for about 10 hours that week. Therefore, when I got the second manuscript I’d check my husband’s work schedule to be sure there were no special meetings, I started asking around for help with the kids and then I scheduled the work on my calendar. That meant I was ready when the third arrived and I wasn’t stressed.

3. Have the people you need ready for the next level. As I continued to grow I found that I needed outside help and staff. This gets difficult because you have to balance your needs with your budget and qualified help. The process is the same. When I see a particular area of my business growing I begin to look for help. When I saw my business to business sales really growing, I began to look for sales staff to help me in that area. That is still one of my high growth areas and a department I’m still hiring in. I also understood that as that area grew, I’d need to build others. The same is true with writing novels. When you start getting requested manuscripts, fulls and book deals, you may need to hire a virtual assistant to help you with emails, newsletters, or even scheduling book signings.

4. Take down time. This is a tough one for me because my mind never stops. If my funds were limitless I could honestly keep 12 people busy all at the same time, full-time with all I have sketched out to do. I love what I do, but I also need down time. Don’t look at rest as a waste. See it as a necessary part of your success formula.

Over the next month work to add these small tweaks to your schedule and your life. Then continue to do them consistently.

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You can read a complete interview with Tiffany on my blog

Tiffany can be reached through her website

Writing and Reading Sick

2012-01-16T07:00:00.005-06:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

Winner from last Thursday's comments on A Wedding Invitation by Alice J. Wisler is BARBARA S. I'll email you for your mailing address and get the book to you.

We all get sick at one time or another. I’ve been sick enough so that I didn’t even feel like reading, much less writing.

Being sick seems to knock the props out from under any creative thought process. Talking about looking at a blank computer screen. Those few times I’ve attempted to write through sickness were almost futile. I did manage to get down a few words but really nothing of consequence. If you’re a writer, can you write although you are sick? How do you become determined to do so? Maybe deadlines?

I try to keep a list of my five favorite novels. Along the way I add some and take away some. But I think I could read any of the five novels while sick. In fact I carried a favorite novel to the hospital and was reading it when I had a small heart attack. I can’t blame the novel for bringing on my heart attack because it was a sweet story not a murder-suspense story.

Here, I’ll share the current list of my five favorite novels:

The Familiar Stranger by Christina Berry

Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

Rooms by James L. Rubart

The Same Sweet Girls by Cassandra King

I’d love to hear from you readers in the comment section below what your favorite novels are.

You may have guessed, I’m sick now—bronchitis. So, I’ll stop here and lie down but I’ll be checking the comments to see if you shared your five favorite novels.

Till next time … keep on smiling. (Can't get the white text background removed. Guess I can blame it on my tired body from this bronchitis.)

Win This Book!

2012-01-12T07:00:00.001-06:00

Thursdays Thoughts on Reading ‘N Writing

When you leave a comment on THIS post by midnight Sunday, January 15, 2012, you'll be entered in the drawing for a copy of the book I review below.

A Wedding Invitation by Alice J. Wisler

Alice was born in Japan to career missionaries. As a young child, Alice walked to the local stationer’s store to buy notebooks, pencils, and scented erasers. In her room she created stories. The desire to be a published famous author has never left her. She is the author of four novels. You may visit Alice at her website, http://www.alicewisler.com.

From the book’s back cover

After returning home from teaching in a refugee camp in the Philippines, Samantha Bravencourt enjoys her quiet life working at her mother’s clothing boutique near Washington, D.C. When she receives an invitation to her friend’s wedding in Winston-Salem, NC, she’s excited to reconnect with her college pals.

But the wedding turns out quite differently than Sam expects. A chance encounter leads to a reunion with Carson Brylie, a fellow teacher and the man who once broke her heart, and Lien, a young Amerasian girl who desperately needs Sam and Carson’s help.

But working with Carson might put Sam’s tender heart at risk once again. Is she willing to forgive the past and take another chance on love?

From Jo

Alice J. Wisler gives us interesting stories peopled with a varied group of memorable characters. In A Wedding Invitation the plot is strong as her memories of teaching in the Philippines interrupt the living of her present life. Can she forgive and forget the past or will the past ruin her chance of happiness?

I thank Alice for giving me a copy of A Wedding Invitation, which one of you could win. Remember to leave a comment on THIS blog by midnight Sunday, January 15 to be eligible for the drawing of a copy of this book. You must be 18 years old and a resident of the U.S. to be eligible for this drawing. Neither I nor my family members are eligible to enter. Winner will be announced on my Monday blog. Remember to please leave your email address so that I can reach you should you win the book.

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

Creatures of Habit

2012-01-09T07:00:00.001-06:00

Monday Musings About This ‘N That

Statistical studies have shown that it takes twenty-one days to establish a habit, whether good or bad. I’ve found no statistics about how long it takes to break a habit. We all have habits, some that we probably never consider, taking them for granted in our day-to-day living.

Habits become an integral part of our personality. Our habits flavor our daily behavior. Do you ever give thought to any habits you may have?

Well, I was unable to purchase a weekly planner like the one I used last year. I guess I just waited too long or maybe the store wasn’t carrying the same one this year. Since I’d become accustomed to the 2011 one, I’m having some trouble changing to a new format of my 2012 planner.

You see, I’d made a habit of using last year’s planner and by habit knew just where I should put things and where I should check for things. So I’m nine days into forming a new habit—learning how to use my new planner.

Such a little thing, really, but still it’s a habit-thing I’m dealing with and it’s a little awkward now. But let’s see, I’ve got twelve days to go and I’ll have this new planner format down pat. I just need to form a new habit of using a new system.

As we jumped into 2012, have you found things you’ve had to change from the way you’re used to doing them?

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Reading and Reading and Reading.............

2012-01-05T07:00:00.001-06:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

Do you have your list of books to be read in 2012? I have some from last year waiting for me to read. It’s good to have books around. It’s a bad thing (for me) when I finish a book and don’t have another one ready to read. I feel lost without a book in progress.

I wonder which books I will read more of—paper books or eBooks. Getting eBooks is easier than going to the bookstore. And our local library is now loaning eBooks and getting new titles all along. Borrowing time is two weeks like paper books and on that due date the library will cause the book to vanish from your Kindle, Nook, or whatever your e-reader may be.

The statistics about eBooks growth is astounding. I read that in December 2011 one million Kindles were sold each week. And those folks who received a gift are busy buying eBooks for their new machine. I’m not an economist but I know what supply and demand means. There must be a good supply of eBooks to meet the demand of buyers. There probably will be for more and more authors are turning to self publishing both eBooks and paper readers.

Traditional and large publishers take so long to contract books and then sometimes an equal length of time to produce the finished book. Without an agent and a well-known name many new authors are passed by. It’s these authors who will be putting their work out as eBooks as well as paper books.

You’re lucky if you’ve received an e-reader because—and this is just a guess of mine—you will have a vast number of eBooks to choose from to put on that e-reader. I think it’s an exciting time for both readers and writers. Writers can cut through a publishers loooong wait time and publish their own books as eBooks and paper books. I predict that some of these books won’t be well edited and you may find mistakes in them but most of these books will have had a good edit and we’ll enjoy reading them.

Do you make note of the books you read? It’s interesting to do that and be able to look back and see what you’ve read and how many books you’ve read. Here’s wishing you good and happy reading for 2012!

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

Santa Came Again

2012-01-02T07:00:00.001-06:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

Santa came back around and gave us some late Christmas presents. A virus. Not the kind of virus your computer gets but the kind that people get. My husband got his first and I thought I’d been good and Santa missed me. But then I did get my virus. We got two different kind. He went to his doctor who didn’t give him an antibiotic (do any of them these days!?). I called in and my doctor gave me an antibiotic. Wish it would work faster.

My birthday came and went. We neither felt up to getting dressed and going to dinner. So I’ll have a late birthday dinner and I get to pick the place. Wish we could both get well at the same time. I’ve been in my PJs way too long.

Maybe my next blog will have more substance…I surely do hope so.

Till then … keep on smiling.

Books and eBooks

2011-12-29T07:00:00.002-06:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

Kindle

I wonder how many Kindles, Nooks, and other e-readers were given and received at Christmas. I would guess a lot more people will be looking for books to read on their e-reader.

Nook

Did you balk the past few years about the success or failure of eBooks? Before Christmas online bookstores were selling more eBooks than paper books and probably the number of eBooks selling has grown since many folks gifted e-readers. So we probably should give some serious thought to eBooks. Whether or not we think eBooks are here to stay, they are going to change the reading habits of many readers.

Another change we’re seeing is regarding self-publishing. Self-publishing used to be a nasty word that established authors declared they would never do. Most self-publishing and eBooks are now both accepted and respected.

Have you read a self-published book? Did you know it was self-published before you started reading it? I recently read a book self published by the author with Amazon Digital Services. I didn’t see any errors, the cover was beautiful, and the book was bound well.

I keep up with best sellers in USA Today. Lately I’m seeing a scattering of eBooks on their list of the 50 top sellers. Until this year I’d never seen this. Most of the eBooks I see in the USA Today list are published by Amazon Digital Services.

Many published authors are now putting their out-of-print books back on the market via eBooks and also paper books through POD (publish on demand) companies. This probably is a good thing for the author and the reader, introducing new readers to the author’s work.

℮?So, did you get an e-reader for Christmas? Think it will change your reading habits?

'Twas the Day After...

2011-12-26T07:00:00.015-06:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

Christmas Day has come and gone. I hope everyone got the present they wished for. Did you?

When I don’t get THE gift I want, I usually buy it for myself during the after-Christmas sales. It’s always something inexpensive, but I wait to see if it’s under the tree before I purchase it.

Many things I wish for cannot be wrapped and placed under the tree: I wish the game of politics wasn’t so ruthless as is our daily dose of politicking. On a more serious note, I wish violence would be replaced by kindness; paying health care premiums guaranteed good health; words could adequately express the feeling of love; hearts couldn’t break; it didn’t get dark.

I wish responsibility wasn’t so heavy; the world was a kinder, gentler place; TV programming was more wholesome; good outweighed bad; children didn’t have to be sick; grandparents lived longer. I wish all good dreams came true.

I hope you could spend time with extended family during the holidays. Christmas, birthdays, weddings, and even funerals (in the South) are almost like family reunions. Times with extended family never lack for conversation and catching up on everybody.

We’re not told in the Bible Jesus’ exact birth date but I do hope your family did remember Him, if even silently, and said “Happy Birthday, Jesus.” He is the reason for the season.

“The magic message of Christmas is that God gives us so much more than we can possibly give back! He gave the world the greatest gift of all time. ‘For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given (Isaiah 9:6, NIV)’”

–Dr. Norman Vincent Peale

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Learning to be a Bird and a Writer

2011-12-22T07:00:00.002-06:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

The winner of You Can Have a Happy Family by Amanda Beth is Pat.

We have several baby birds around our house. The first time I saw them they were pecking at surfaces on the deck outside my kitchen window. I wondered how they learned at their early age to forage for food by pecking. Does the mother bird instruct them in bird talk? Does she teach them by imitation of what she does? How do they learn to be a bird?

Since elementary school when we learned that a sentence must contain a noun and a verb, we’ve been able to write. I wrote stories with this short and choppy sentence structure. And I’ve written ever since about one thing or another, never thinking of publication.

Making our writing ready for publication takes a bit more than putting nouns with verbs. How do we learn to become writers? Where do we find instruction?

In this digital age many opportunities are out there about learning the craft of writing. On my website I have a Writer’s Page, which has a list of “Writing Help Sites.” You can find nuggets of writing wisdom on a daily basis from my list and from others.

But before we immersed ourselves into the internet for information, there were books. Some of these books are as valuable to the writer today as they were years ago. Examples: Self-Editing for Fiction Writers by Browne and King; Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott; and Write His Answer by Marlene Bagnull. Newer books have come along that help writers; books by Randy Ingermanson and Donald Maas, for example.

Reading about learning to write is a must, but other things are required of the writer who wishes for their writing to be published. Writers’ conferences are invaluable. You can attend workshops at these conferences on just about any writing topic you want. Writers can subscribe to magazines that have a total focus on writing: The Writer and Writer’s Digest. Joining a critique group, having interaction with other writers is a great step.

But while learning about how to write, leave yourself time to write. Write something every day, if only an email or an entry in your journal. Writers, God has given you the talent to write; and He may call you to write for the Christian marketplace. If you feel sure of that it will help you to stay the course, never lose your focus, and never quit.

You will get discouraged at times, but never give up. If God has called you to write for Him, that alone is enough to encourage you through the tough times.

“Write it before them in a table, and note it in a book.” (Isaiah 30:8, KJV)

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Gone With the Wind

2011-12-19T07:00:00.001-06:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

Near the end of each year I try to determine which are my five favorite novels. My list of five always contains Gone With the Wind. Other titles may change from year to year, but Gone With the Wind never gets bumped from the list.

I’ve of course read the novel but I am so glad they made a movie of it. Many parts of the novel/movie are unforgettable: Rhett carrying Scarlett up the broad staircase; Bonnie riding her pony and her resulting death; Atlanta burning; and of course the last words of the movie—frankly, Scarlett, I don’t give a ****.

One other scene in the movie is indelibly stamped on my mind. It’s when Scarlett has returned to Tara, her dad having passed away. She reaches down and takes a fist full of red Georgia dirt and stands with a beginning sunset outlining her, fist full of dirt raised skyward. It’s here her bone-deep determination exposes itself as never before. Even though the Civil War has stripped her and Tara of all their majestic splendor, her resolve doesn’t waver. She will rebuild Tara.

As we might say today, Scarlett was at the end of her rope. At our graduation practice my high school principal gave us seniors one piece of advice; I’ll never forget his words or his serious demeanor when he spoke. He said when we got out of school and into life and ever felt like we were at the end our rope, just tie a knot and hang on. We thought his advice was amusing then, but, oh so appropriate as we've grown older.

Have you ever felt like you were at the end of your rope? What did you do? Did you somehow pull your determination up from your inner self as Scarlett did? Or did you shrink back and hope for things to get better?

It’s easy to have a positive attitude in a positive environment. I’d like to encourage you to keep positive thoughts even when you face “the end of your rope.” I want you to reach your potential and be the greatest you that you can be. Think on all the good in your life instead of always thinking on your past mistakes. The only use of thinking on past mistakes is to help us not to repeat them. Our past is gone; let it stay there.

This Bible verse always helps me to get up and out of the dumps:

"Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."

(Philippians 4:8, NIV)

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

Win This Book!

2011-12-15T07:00:00.003-06:00

Thursday Thoughts on Writing and Reading

When you leave a comment on THIS post by midnight Sunday, December 18, you'll be entered in a drawing for a copy of the book I review below.

You Can Have a Happy Family by Amanda Beth

Amanda Beth passionately desires to see individuals and families transformed through the power of God. Her teachings on marriage and spiritual growth can be found on her website (www.amandabeth.net) and her blog (http://www.amandabeth.net/family-blog.html). Amanda and her husband, Jason, live in Michigan with their four children.

From the back cover of the book

"YOU can’t perfect your family. Amanda Beth can’t perfect your family. NO ONE can perfect your family. But there is hope…GOD CAN!

Join Amanda on her journey to find contentment. She takes you through her personal testimony and reveals the steps God taught her that freed her from insecurity, strife, distrust, resentment, and chaos in her marriage.

She shares with you how to enjoy your family while waiting on God to restore, transform, and perfect you, your marriage, and your children. This book is a guide to a total FAMILY makeover.

As a mom of four children ages one to ten, Amanda understands the struggles of raising a family today. She shares her own struggles along with testimonies and needs of real families. And she helps you apply true Biblical solutions to the problems that marriages and families face today.

God only needs ONE willing heart to change a whole family. Let that heart by yours!"

From Jo:

This powerful faith-based book is a must read for every family. It grabbed me on the first page and didn’t let go till I had turned the last page. I wish it were required reading for every couple about to be married. As the back cover says, GOD CAN…a thought to carry with you every day.

I thank Amanda for giving me a copy of You Can Have a Happy Family, which one of you could win. Remember to leave a comment on THIS blog by midnight Sunday, December 18 to be eligible for a drawing of a copy of this book. You must be 18 years old and a resident of the U.S. to be eligible for this drawing. Neither I nor my family members are eligible to enter. Winner will be announced on my next Monday blog.

Till next time...keep on smiling.

Are We in the Future?

2011-12-12T07:00:00.001-06:00

Monday Musings on This 'N That

Kaye Dacus is a favorite blogger of mine. She posted an article from Ladies' Home Journal, "What May Happen in the Next Hundred Years" by John Elfreth Watkins, Jr. Mr. Watkins made his twenty-nine predictions in 1900. Some of them are almost bizarre, some have come true, but some have not.

Before I read thoroughly enough to realize that these predictions were made in 1900, I got excited about a few of them. I wouldn’t be here is a hundred years but just the thought of some of the things that might happen caused me to share these predictions.

But, you know, let’s look at some of the twenty-nine things I really wish would have happened.

Exciting Prediction #1: “No Mosquitoes nor Flies” Mr.Watkins backed up this prediction by saying that Boards of Health would destroy all mosquito breeding grounds and the extinction of horses and their stables would reduce the flies.

Exciting Prediction #2: “There will be no wild animals except in menageries. Rats and mice will have been exterminated.” That’s good news to my ears. You know I’m afraid of snakes. So, no wild animals, no snakes. Now if the roach bug could become extinct!!! I read once where a Southern gentleman kills the bugs (not the ladies). In the South we rarely have winters cold enough to kill off the bugs. That’s the biggest thing that bugs (pun intended) me about living in the South.

Exciting Prediction #3: “Few drugs will be swallowed or taken into the stomach unless needed for the direct treatment of that organ itself.” Double wow! I do not swallow pills easily. When I was in elementary school and needed to take a pill, Daddy would take me into the furnace room (why that room I don’t know), tell me to open my mouth wide, and he would throw the pill into my throat. It’s a wonder one of the pills didn’t go into my lungs and I might not be here today.

These predictions were right on: “Photographs will be telegraphed from any distance.”/ “Man will see around the world.”/“Telephones around the world.” All done now by internet and wireless phones.

Take a look at all these predictions made in 1900 and see how far off and how close to the truth the items were. You can read them here I'd love your comments on these predictions.

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

Thick or Thin?

2011-12-08T07:00:00.002-06:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

Recently I propped up my bed pillows to read some before sleep. The book I planned to read was by a best-selling author and I’d read all his previous books. When I lifted his new book to read I realized it was quite heavy. I thumbed through the pages then I realized the book was well over 400 pages.

I couldn’t picture myself spending the time it would take me to read this thick book. I’m a slow but thorough reader and I could imagine that reading this book would probably take me weeks. The last book of this size that I read was Gone With the Wind. I was in my twenties then with fewer responsibilities than now and thus more time for reading.

So what did I do? I put the book aside without reading even the first page. Reading the first page I knew would cause me to read page two..then page three…. I didn’t want to make a commitment to reading the total book.

On the other hand when I read a skinny book that has many fewer pages than 400 I sometimes wonder if I spent my money wisely. Skinny books can draw me into them just as a 400-page one does. Around 200-250 pages is ideal for me. I do make exceptions, but not to 400 pages.

My lesson here for me is not to bring home a book simply because I know and have read the author before. I learned that I should look to the last page and see if that number pleases me. I must consider my slow and thorough reading ability and do the best I can when reading any book.

"Do what you can with what you have where you are.” —Theodore Roosevelt

Does it make any difference to you how many pages in a book?

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Stuff or Truth?

2011-12-06T07:00:00.003-06:00

Stuff or Truth?

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

(a day late...sorry)

Yesterday’s newspaper contained more retail flyers than it did news sections. Side by side, the stack of flyers was more than twice as thick as the actual newspaper. All the stores have extended their shopping hours, opening earlier and closing later than before Thanksgiving.

Speaking of Thanksgiving, did you shop on “black Friday”? Or on cyber Monday? I read about and realize that on the day after Thanksgiving some stores had super bargains—but super enough to pitch a tent on Monday to be the first in the store on Friday? But, you know what, yesterday’s flyers showed the same stores still have most of those black Friday super bargains.

In this economy when we’re all supposed to be in a bind financially or not employed, people sure are spending money. Or, rather they are spending plastic—credit cards. It wouldn’t surprise me if it may take some shoppers all next year to pay for what they buy between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

We’ve been buying things this way for a while but it seems this year folks are behaving more materialistic than before. So, shoppers are frantic and racking up staggering debt on stuff.

Well and good if that’s what floats your boat. But it’s so, so obvious that the true meaning of Christmas is again pushed to the end of the line by those who love things more. They behave as if they don’t remember, or maybe never knew, the real meaning of Christmas. That saddens my heart.

Instead of buying Christmas presents for everybody, each of the adults in our little family draws a name of one person to purchase a gift for and we also set a maximum cost to spend. Of course, we all give the children presents. But once they’re out of high school and have a job, their name goes into the hat for Christmas giving. This way we don’t over emphasize buying and giving so much as on the real history of Christmas. We each make a list of several things we’d like to receive so the person who selected our name with have a choice of what to buy as long as they don’t overspend our set maximum cost.

As we compile our wish lists for Christmas, may we remember the words of Dr. Norman Vincent Peale: “The magic message of Christmas is that God gives us so much more than we can possibly give back! He gave the world the greatest gift of all time. ‘For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given (Isaiah 9:6).’”

I hope all of you will have an enjoyable Christmas season of parties, shopping, opening presents, and decorating the tree. And I also hope you receive a gift that will bring a smile to your face and you’ll think of the truth of the season.

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Hang in There

2011-12-01T07:00:00.001-06:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

I’ve been told that from Thanksgiving through February publishing houses are not a busy place. No hurrying and waiting, not many phones ringing, and just plain unproductive. I can understand this happening during the holidays and until January 2. I’ve been told that January and February are good times to submit to publishers and agents. I guess so, since publishing all but shuts down during that time (so I’ve been told).

If the lull between Thanksgiving and February truly happens then the equation I come up with is that it takes three-four more months writers have to wait. If I were asked by an unpublished author for one bit of advice for their writing career I would answer flat out: you have to be patient and not get discouraged.

A writer spends months, maybe years, to complete and polish a novel, submit it to an agent or publisher, and then wait to receive a response. Any response, good or bad, just please let me hear from you.

This situation in publishing is akin to going to the doctor. You sign in at the front desk, giving your name and your appointment time. You take a seat expecting to be called back shortly because you came in at your appointment time. But then you wait. And wait. And wait some more. Sometimes your’re told the doctor had an emergency at the hospital and will return soon. And, hey, you know what? If it were me having an emergency at the hospital I’d sure appreciate the doctor checking on me instead of coming by after his office hours. I honestly would.

So, as a writer waiting to hear from a publisher, try to keep positive thoughts. I agree that’s difficult. But the publisher may be just finishing all the work required for another manuscript and ours is next in the pile. And when the publisher opens our manuscript we should be grateful if he gives it as much attention as he did the previous one.

While we’re waiting, and even if you receive a rejection, a good step would be to start your next book and continue learning the craft of writing. I hope you’re patient and positive. Neither can hurt you and might help you in the long run.

“Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes

off your goal.”—Henry Ford

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Could It Be Alvin?

2011-11-28T07:00:00.008-06:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

I’d seen him many times. He got around with deft agility. And did he move fast. I thought he was the only one around. I’d watch him move from one safe spot to another and then he’d disappear into a small hole near the deck steps. His name could have been Alvin because he was a chipmunk. (No, that's not my hand.)

Alvin?

Then one day I saw him scampering in my yard and he had a friend with him—another chipmunk. The real Alvin on screen had two buddies. I wondered if my Alvin had more than this one buddy. I’ve only seen two of them together at the same time. Of course they could be twins—the stripes on their backs are identical. I know they are in the rodent family, but they really are cute.

At my kitchen window one day I saw a sizable cat with a chipmunk in its mouth. I hurried outside screaming at the mean cat and waving my arms. I suppose I was scary enough that the cat froze and his mouth dropped open. The unharmed chipmunk plopped to the ground and dashed away to safety.

We also have squirrels scooting around in our trees. And stray dogs and cats. And sometimes a snake (see my November 7 blog post). I’ve often thought where all these little creatures go when it gets really cold. Another puzzle to me is how birds in trees survive strong winds.

Jesus says He takes care of the birds and flowers and we are much more valuable to Him (Luke 12:22-28 NIV). You know how I feel about worrying. In these Bible verses Jesus admonishes us not to worry because doing so cannot add one hour to our life. Watching the little chipmunks in their hustle and bustle reminds me of these verses and makes me smile to know Jesus takes care of their necessities and also mine.

How do those little bird feet hang onto the tree limb when the winds come?

Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! –Luke 12:24 NIV

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Thanksgiving Prayer

2011-11-24T07:00:00.003-06:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

The winner of last Thursday’s book giveaway for a copy of I Called Him Dancer by G. Edward Snipes is Ginger. Thanks for all your comments and for following my blog. More giveaways soon.

Considering that today is Thanksgiving Day in America and staying in line with this blog’s Thursday theme of reading and writing, please allow me to quote from one of my books. Following is an entry from Amen and Good Night, God: A Book of Evening Prayers on the topic of thanksgiving:

God,

I praise you for the miracles of today. I'm thankful for your many blessings. Help me to be positive, not grumbling daily or taking for granted your many good provisions. You can do more for me than I could even imagine! May I never forget to offer you praise and thanksgiving.

Amen and Good Night,God

The book, Amen and Good Night, God: A Book of Evening Prayers, is available in paperback AND eBook formats here.

Till next time … keep on smiling.

From Pretty to Ugly

2011-11-21T07:00:00.011-06:00

Monday Musings on This 'N That

Last Wednesday as I walked across the parking lot toward my doctor’s office I calmly said to my husband, “This feels like tornado weather.” It was not windy, the sky was blue; but when you’ve been unfortunate to have been near a tornado you can just tell. When leaving the doctor’s office it began to sprinkle rain and began a downpour just as we got into the car. We drove from the parking lot and around the corner when rain hit us in sheets. We pulled off into another parking lot to wait out the rain.

Then’s when I heard the weather sirens that give us warnings of bad weather. Two minutes later our car literally rocked from side to side. So glad we were not driving on the streets. We couldn’t get a radio station on the car, so I started calling family members to find out what was coming our way.

What we found out was we were smack in the middle of a tornado warning. When the rain slowed and the sky lightened, we started our way home. No visible damage anywhere; just autumn leaves everywhere except on the trees.

The closer we got to home, the worse it appeared. It was ugly: trees were down across the street, allowing only one-way traffic and other trees had fallen across house roofs. Two roofs were completely gone. Most of our street was blocked because of trees and downed wires, but we finally circled around and arrived home safely. The tornado was on the ground for 27 miles and its path came about two blocks from our house.

It appears the only damage we have is on our lower level patio—the glass-top table is no longer and the patio umbrella is turned over. We haven’t checked the roof for missing shingles but we don’t see any fallen trees on us. We have no electrical power—my laptop is running on battery and I can’t get internet service because of the outage.

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)

How true of all our days. Making plans is another one of those things we so easily take for granted. I’m blessed my family is safe and I’ve heard of no fatalities.

Please cherish each day, whether rain or shine.

Till next time … keeping on smiling.

How Many Books

2011-11-17T07:00:00.011-06:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

Leave a comment on THIS blog post by midnight, Sunday, November 20, to be eligible to win a copy of I Called Him Dancer by G. Edward Snipes. Please remember to give your email address so that I can contact you if you should win.

Is there a difference between the reading habits of readers who don’t write and readers who do write?

Probably most readers who write for publication (even when reading for pleasure) will have their internal editor turned on whether aware of it or not. They will tend to see grammar errors, punctuation errors, spelling errors, etc. right away. Catching those errors are ingrained in a writer’s mind because they must read their own writing with their editor hat on.

Readers who do not write for publication, probably don’t concern themselves with actually hunting down those errors. I wonder which group is more apt to enjoy reading a book.

Which group do you think would be more likely to read more books? I don’t have any statistics on that topic; it would be interesting to know.

How many books do you read in a year? One a week, one a month, or more or less? Writers who write for publication are often faced with deadlines to get pages to their publisher. That takes a big chunk of their time. There will be intervals between those deadlines and writers do read.

In my e-newsletter I ask readers to share their five favorite books (you can subscribe to the newsletter from my website). My list sometimes changes from year to year.

So, how many books do you read a year? Would you like to share the titles of your five favorite books? I’d love to hear from you in the comment section below. It would put a smile on my face.

"I've read the last page of the Bible. It's all going to turn out all right." Billy Graham

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Waiting...

2011-11-14T07:00:00.001-06:00

Monday Musings On This’N That

The leaves are falling and the trees are almost bare, their naked limbs reaching… I would suspect they are reaching for a better season for their purpose on this earth. A season of shrubbery budding and bright green leaves to once more adorn them. It’s a long time till spring and these bare trees and not-so-pretty bushes must wait…they have no choice.

Do you ever find yourself in a similar place…waiting? We all wait at times in our lives. What we wait for is important to us. Are you patient, knowing you have no other choice? Or do you lose your patience, your life filled with strife and stress from the waiting?

Impatience will gain us nothing but fretting and worrying. Impatience will not cause whatever you are waiting for to appear sooner than it’s supposed to. Can you recall a time when you were forced to be patience and it was worth the wait when what you desired came to be? If so, share it with us in the comments section below.

Who or what makes your life complicated by causing you to wait? Waiting is not easy. It’s usually downright nerve-racking. Impatience is a close cousin to worry; neither will gain us anything. The secret to being happy while you are patient is to wait with hope.

“All human wisdom is summed up in two words: wait and hope.”

—Alexandre Dumas, French playwright

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

Learning to Write

2011-11-10T07:00:00.004-06:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

NOTE: The winner of the book giveaway last Thursday is JENNIFER. I'll be having some more contests for books...so stay tuned.
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When you’re just starting out on your writing career, where do you turn for direction or instruction? Where do you find materials that will get your writing wheels turning?

Well, when I started writing I didn’t look any place for direction. I just wrote…don’t try this at home. I wrote a few short stories and sent them to some women’s magazines where I’d been reading the stories they printed. I think I was just trying to write like what I had read in those magazines. I had no doubt they would be published. Nope, they were all rejected.

After those rejections, which hurt oh so badly, I decided I’d go to a bookstore that sold magazines that might be helpful. I found sections of magazines on most any topic you could imagine. To my pleasant surprise they had two magazines for writers. I bought one of each—Writer's Digest and The Writer--and consumed their contents.

I was overwhelmed to learn what I didn’t know: writers met together at conferences, books were available about how to write, and there were market guides to help writers. I stepped back and wondered about what I was attempting to do. Why didn’t Good Housekeeping use my story in their magazine? Why didn’t Ladies Home Journal like my writing? I really wanted some answers. I couldn’t ignore a feeling deep inside that maybe, just maybe, sending my stories to those publications was not what I should have done. This nagging feeling wouldn’t stop and I had to seriously confront it. I was finally convinced that God was telling me that’s not where He wanted my writing to be.

The first article I submitted to a Christian publication was accepted! How’s that for God getting my attention? I started going to Christian writers’ conferences, attending all the workshops I could work into the schedule, and meeting other Christian writers. Well, you probably know the rest of the story: I was published in many different magazines and devotionals, wrote an inspirational newspaper column in a secular venue where I was allowed to quote scripture, and had three nonfiction books traditionally published.

So, when you begin your writing career look to resources for help: writers’ magazines, writers’ conferences, books on the writing craft, and other writers. From personal experience, I suggest that you do not venture into anything until you know what God has in mind for you.

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Which Is The Good Snake?

2011-11-07T07:00:00.003-06:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

What’s your favorite snake? What … you don’t have a favorite snake? And so many to pick one from … there’s the copperhead, rattle snake, water moccasin, black snake, chicken snake, and many more, I’m sure.

When my son was young we were at Silver Springs, Florida and he wanted to go into the snake show. AND he wanted to sit on the front row, which we did! The first thing in the show was a person who brought out a huge snake, holding it in his hands, and walking along the front row to allow spectators to feel of the snake. My son did; I did. Not once thinking that the snake could turn his head and BITE someone if it wanted to. It didn’t.

Anyway, that’s the only snake I’ve touched and don’t plan to touch another one. Returning home one day I noticed a very small snake lying just outside the garage doors. I got out of the car, reached for a hoe standing in the corner, and set out to kill that little snake. I raised the hoe above my head and slammed it down near the snake’s head. When the hoe hit the concrete beneath the snake it bounced back up almost as high as I had it when I started my killing spree! Good thing it was a little snake or it would have had time to bite me before I could bring down the hoe to hit it again.

Okay, then, what’s my favorite snake? A good snake; and a good snake is a dead one. Take a look at this one my son found inside our garage a few days ago. I’m glad he found it instead of me; I might still be running.

My son used the same hoe and chopped the snake two or three times. He googled it and determined it was a garter snake; not poisnous. But still the only good snake is a dead snake in my book.

Till next time … keep on smiling (and don’t bring any snakes to my house!)

Win This Book!

2011-11-03T07:00:00.001-05:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

When you leave a comment on THIS post by midnight Sunday, November 6, you'll be entered in a drawing for a copy of the book I review below.

Save The Date by Jenny B. Jones

Jenny B. Jones is the two-time Carol award-winning author of Just Between You and Me and the Charmed Live series.

From the back cover of the book:
When the funding for Lucy's non-profit job is pulled she is determined to find out why. Enter Alex Sinclair, former professional football star and heir to Sinclair Enterprises—the primary donor to Lucy’s non-profit organization.

Both Lucy and Alex have something the other desperately wants.

Alex has it all except…except for the votes he needs to win his bid for Congress. Despite their mutual dislike, Alex makes Lucy a proposition: pose as his fiancée in return for the money she desperately needs. Bound to a man who isn’t quite what he seems, Lucy finds her heart—and her future—on the line.

Save the Date is a spunky romance that will have readers laughing out loud as this dubious pair try to save their careers, their dreams…and maybe even a date.

From Jo:

Jones includes enough humorous situations to make you smile or maybe even laugh out loud. Her characters are real and memorable She describes her settings so well you'll feel you're right there with Lucy as the plot unfolds. I couldn't find enough time to get back to this book and continue reading.

Leave a comment below by midnight Sunday, November 6, to be eligible to win a copy of Save the Date.
Please be sure to leave your email address with your comment so that I can contact you should you be the winner. For better security from scammers you may leave your email address as (an example): jo(at)gmail(dot)com.

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

Who Schedules?

2011-10-31T07:00:00.001-05:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

Summer, Spring, Fall, Winter. Which is your favorite season of the year?

Let’s talk a bit about the seasons. Here in the South we just about skipped any spring weather and just jumped into hot, hot summer. There was hardly any nice spring days to sit outside. It just turned hot.

Now it looks we’ve jumped into winter without a fall to watch the beautiful colors of the leaves. We had a 30 degree drop from one day at 80+ degrees to the next day at 50+ degrees.

I’ll never understand who schedules college football games. We start our football season in August. The first few games are in mid-day when it’s 85-90 degrees. Then when the cool weather comes, the games are at night and that’s a chilly three hours to sit watching a game. But then it’s been suggested the reason for the football games' starting times is for following the TV scheduling. Schools will play when they get the chance to be on TV where they will receive more money, whenever the time. So I guess it is true that you can “follow the money” and find most answers to your questions.

I know, I know, I’m as big a football fan as anyone. But, really. Do they think of the fans or the money when scheduling game times? It’s just another thing I can’t do anything about. They never ask me when making all these decisions. Wonder why?

Where’s You Place?

2011-10-27T07:00:00.001-05:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

How do you mark the place you stopped reading before you put the book aside?

Some may use:

the receipt from where they bought the book.

a finger nail file (yes, I did that once when it was the closest thing to grab).

a tissue (yes, I’ve seen that done).

bookmarks they’ve picked up at the library or bookstore.

bookmarks that authors have at book signings.

a business card (done that too).

And (boo, hiss!) some may turn down the top corner of the page where they want to start when they can get back to read the book again. I can’t imagine someone doing that to a book they own; but I’ve seen plenty turned-down corners on library books. That’s not being respectful to the book or the author.

And (boo, hiss!) another thing some do is lay the opened book with print down. I worked in the library in junior high and the librarian would really give a sermon to those who did that. It breaks the spine of the book—that part of the book you see when they’re all lined up on a bookshelf.

I’m on Debbie Macomber’s mailing list. Yearly she sends a long letter and includes a bookmark—shiny on both sides with plenty of information about her books. A friend cross stitched my initials on a bookmark. So I do have a nice supply of beautiful bookmarks. It's difficult to even think about throwing any of then away.

How do you mark your place when you must close a book and return later? Don’t tell me you turn down the corner of the page—please, just don’t tell me.

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

Before and After

2011-10-24T07:00:00.001-05:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

Many years ago we built a two-leveled deck on the back of our house. The wood used for the project was “treated” wood. However, we didn’t waterproof the finished deck. Years of Southern sun, rain, and even a little snow have taken their toll on the deck.

Our son is using a pressure washer to blast the ugliness off our deck. It appears it will be at least a two-week project. But I wanted to share some pictures with you as the project has progressed. He moved everything (of which some were also pretty ugly; maybe time for new outdoor furniture?) off the upper level down to the lower level before he started on the upper level. Below are “before” and “after” photos. I hope you can see the stark difference of improvement of the wood.

BEFORE

AFTER - SEE DIFFERENCE OF THE FLOOR (washed) AND THIS SIDE OF POSTS (not)

AFTER - NOTE DIFFERENCE IN TOP RAILING (not washed) AND LOWER STRIP OF WOOD (washed)

Many places, not only did the pressure washer remove the discolored surface of the wood, but raised splinters from beneath the outside layer of the wood, which will require sanding for our comfortable use. After all that I hope we will waterproof this time.

This reminds me of how we may look to God. But when we turn our lives over to Him He will remove all the goop and splinters and show how we really look on the inside. If we leave our religion in the church house on Sunday and don’t live it the rest of the week, we need to let God do some pressure washing on us. Didn’t mean to do a sermon when I started this blog post but the analogy was so apparent, I couldn’t resist. So, happy pressure washing.

“It is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all.”

- Laura Ingalls Wilder

Till next time …keep on smiling.

Who's You?

2011-10-20T07:00:00.001-05:00

Thursday Thought on Reading and Writing

I love to read blog posts by Kaye Dacus. She makes me smile, laugh, think, and wonder. She sometimes shares pictures of celebrities she chooses to be characters in her books. On her blog post of October 13, Kaye Dacus asked this question: What actor/actress would you choose to portray you in a movie based on the story of your life?

Rene Russo

Diane Keaton

My answer to that question was:

Rene Russo because she’s who I want to look like—that gorgeous copper-red hair she had in The Thomas Crown Affair. But then Diane Keaton because I love the personality she portrays on screen. Sorry that’s more than one, but put them together and that’s my pick.

So how would you answer that question? Please leave you answer in the comment section.

A Pallet?

2011-10-17T07:00:00.001-05:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

What do you think of when you hear the word pallet? Do you think of those portable platforms for handling, storing, or moving materials and packages? They’re flat,wooden, and you see them sometimes in grocery stores when items are being placed on the store’s shelves. Behind WalMart you can always see stacks of empty ones. They’re really unattractive but useful to warehouses and stores.

When I hear the word pallet I think of beautiful quilts. My grandmother raised eleven children and as adults when even a few of them would visit her at the same time, beds were usually for grown-ups and the pallets were for her grandchildren. But these pallets were made by layering beautiful quilts on the floor to make it as comfortable as possible for those who slept there. And then you got another quilt for cover.

Ladies in the family or community would gather to hand-stitch quilts. Most of my grandmother’s quilts were made of pieces from outgrown clothes. And when finished, the patterns of the quilts were breathtaking. I have one an aunt made that has butterflies patterned all over it. Another one was made for my son and brown ponies cover it.

Some hand sewn quilts have very intricate patterns. Some are hung on walls as decorative art. When I remember my youth I never forget the times I’ve slept on a pallet on the floor. More fun to a kid than a bed anytime.

You ever slept on a pallet?

eBook Frenzy

2011-10-13T07:00:00.003-05:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

I've jumped on the band wagon of eBooks and e-readers! I’ve published two of my out-of-print books into eBooks: Amen and Good Morning, God and Amen and Good Night, God. Both books are now listed for sale at $0.99 (the lowest price they allow) at both Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

I am not a techie and don’t have much ability with technical procedures. But the talk was that it was easy to put out an eBook. A Kindle (an Amazon product) was the big kid on the block so I thought I’d start this adventure with them. After reading all the instructions to convert by books into Kindle books, I had second thoughts. Several places recommended starting with eBooks at an online company called Smashwords (at that time Smashwords was publishing in all eBook format except Kindle).Their instructions were less technical but still I couldn’t see myself doing this.

But Mark Coker, the boss man at Smashwords has a list of people who will do the formatting and book covers for you. All I had to do was send my book manuscripts in a Word document and they would convert them into the correct format that I could submit to Smashwords. Yay! I could do that. So I chose Bryan Coker (email him here) to do my formatting and Miss Mae (email her here) to do my books’ covers. They were so patient with me and we got everything ready for me to submit to Smashwords.

Next, I wanted to try to get my books into Kindle format. I wanted help again and I found Ellen Maze (email her here) who formatted my books’ Word documents into Kindle and Nook (Barnes & Noble) specifications. Ellen does covers but I already had covers. I would highly recommend Bryan Coker, Miss Mae, and Ellen Maze if you want help making an eBook. If you contact them, you may use my name if you’d like.That won't get you a nickel but they will know where you heard of them. Each of them had reasonable rates for their services.

In the book publishing business everyone is talking about eBooks. More and more people are purchasing e-readers. The “experts” are predicting and speculating how the future of book publishing will be affected by all this; but most of them agree that eBooks will bring a change. According to Amazon, et al it’s already changed. This eBook thing has really caught on.

Converting an out-of-print book into an eBook and converting a novel you have written that’s never been published are on two different ends in this eBook spectrum. This is a great opportunity for authors who have out-of-print books, which have already had a thorough edit at the publishing house that originally released the books. If I wanted to convert a book manuscript that I had written but it hadn’t been published and therefore had not been professionally edited, I would hire a professional editor to give it an edit before I started any formatting for an eBook.

If you read either of my two eBooks and like them, I’d appreciate it if you’d write a review of the book on Amazon or Barnes & Noble, or on both. Thanks in advance.

Have you ventured into the eBook waters? Is so, how was your experience in doing that? Think you would do it again?

Your Greatest Victory and Mine

2011-10-10T07:00:00.014-05:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

What was your greatest personal victory? Did it happen in high school, in college, in a relationship at any age? Is it something that might not seem huge, but was very important and meaningful to you? If you think your personal victory would seem silly and trivial to others it may be a highlight in your life and therefore not at all trivial or silly to you.

I’ll tell you about something I considered a personal victory to me if you’ll tell me yours. After reading this, do you promise to comment and let us in on your big moment? Promise?

Okay, here it is for me. In high school I was on the girls’ basketball team. Getting selected for the team was of itself a fete. Got issued a uniform—shiny gold in color with big numbers on the back of the shirt. My own number twenty-four!

I had transferred into this high school in the middle of my sophomore year—yes, yet another move of 8 from K-12—in the middle of basketball season. I started playing with the team in my junior year. On the court my specialty was the two-handed jump shot from where the 3-point shots are made today. But then it was only a 2-point shot and I sometimes shot beyond where the 3-point circle is today. And my shots touched nothing but net; I never banked any off the backboard. (No, that's not me in the photo.)

I’m trying to stay humble here, really. But I rarely missed those shots when the other teams’ defense was such that I could get clear. I made them from the top of the key and beyond; from the corners; well, from just about anywhere. BUT I sat on the bench more than I stayed on the court. See, this shot was all I had going for me. I was not aggressive enough to go in and shoot from under the goal.

Anyway, one night I sat on the bench watching the game and trying to learn. Our cheerleaders and fans sat on the opposite side of the gym. Then I heard it. They were chanting my name: “We want Stoney! We want Stoney!” (My maiden name was Stone.) They kept the chanting going till coach put me in.

That night people wanted ME to get into the game! Me, who sat on the bench. Me, who had hardly any self-confidence at that time in my life! I made more shots that night than ever before. My teammates set up screens for me so I could shoot without an opponent in my face. I can still hear the chanting; me going to the scorer’s table and checking in; and then me running onto the court. My shots were flawless.

See, all that may sound silly and unimportant to you, but to me, a high school girl, it was like being crowned Miss America.

So, now it’s you turn to share a little about your greatest personal victory. You promised, didn't you?

Till next time … keep on smiling.

If you have trouble leaving a comment please let me know by sending me an email from here

Writers Write for Readers

2011-10-06T07:00:00.001-05:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

Most readers have their favorite authors. When a new book comes out that one of my favorite authors has written, I don’t even read a review of the book or read the book’s back cover print. Only one time have I been disappointed by doing so. Recently I started reading a book by a writer whose other books had been political thrillers; by the time I got to Chapter Two I honestly thought I was reading a Nicholas Sparks (whom I also like) book. The author had radically changed genres and I was disappointed. I wanted to read a political thriller and got a romance.

Readers don’t want their authors to change genres on them. Writers who write in more than one genre will usually use a pseudonym/pen name for each category in which they write. Romance author Nora Roberts also writes under three other names. You’re probably familiar with her thriller/mystery novels that she writes under the name of J.D. Robb (I’m not giving away any secrets—it’s on Wikipedia.) By doing this, her readers know which kind of book they’re getting when they select Nora Roberts or J.D. Robb.

Not many writers are as prolific in publishing novels as is Nora Roberts. But she has done a wise thing in separating her writing categories by using a different name for each.

Writers, have you ever tried to shift categories in your writing and still use the same name? If so, have you received letters from readers saying you had confused them by doing this? As writers we must have our audience in mind at all times. If we skip around in all areas of writing using the same name, we will confuse and perhaps even lose readers. Reader loyalty is a precious commodity to a writer and we should do nothing to jeopardize that connection. So if you feel compelled to write in different areas, remember your readers and use a different name for each category in which you write.

If not for readers, authors would languish and fade away not to be read again, at least not much. Readers (and I am one) want consistency from their favorite authors. It is compelling for writers to remember that.

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

What Color is Your Butterfly?

2011-10-03T07:00:00.029-05:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

Most of us know that birds migrate, moving from one location to another. Do you know that butterflies also migrate? Some butterflies can travel up to 2000 miles, from Canada to the coastal areas of the Gulf of Mexico and northern Caribbean spots. Butterflies west of the Rocky Mountains usually migrate to Texas and Central America and California. Those east of the Rocky Mountains migrate to the Gulf Coast and then to Mexico.

We all can probably recognize the Monarch butterfly with its patterned colors. But the butterfly I enjoy seeing is a small yellow one. There is a scientific name for them; I believe they are in the family of sulfur butterfly. Sometimes you see them in color from yellow to white and to almost clear.

If you live in the South U.S., October is a good month to see many of these yellow specimens. This year I began seeing them in September where I live. They don’t travel in great bunches or waves as do the Monarchs. They seem to move alone, slowly without purpose or direction.

But they do have direction; they are migrating southward, usually to Mexico. As they reach the Gulf of Mexico coast they appear in larger numbers. They are good at following a course of travel as long as the coast is in sight, but still they go across the gulf waters toward Mexico. I’ve been told they rest along the journey on boats, ships, or even briefly on large fish that swim close to the water’s surface. They spend the winter in the moderate climate in Mexico and begin their trek back northward in early spring, somehow knowing that the temperatures will be favorable to them.

At Callaway Gardens, Georgia is the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center where more than 1000 butterflies from 50 different species fly freely. Tropical plants preferred by each of the butterflies grow in one of North America's largest glass-enclosed tropical butterfly conservatories.They will fly close to you and even light upon you. There is also a small glassed area inside where you can watch as caterpillars laboriously change into butterflies.

The butterfly is another one of God’s precious little creations. He watches over them even as they migrate with the aid of their own GPS gift from God. Just as merry-go-rounds can be enjoyed by adults, I never tire of watching butterflies, especially the little yellow ones.

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Why Read a Specific Book

2011-09-29T07:00:00.001-05:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

Why do you decide to read a specific book? Is it because of the characters, the plot (story), the settings’ descriptions, the title, the back cover information, and/or the cover?

If you select characters it’s probably because you want to identify with them and their situations. The characters may be attractive, mean, good, old, young, etc. But as strong as you feel that you read a book because of the characters, how important would the characters be if there were no plot/story?

Conversely, if you choose plot or story how can there be a story without characters?

If you choose the settings’ descriptions how could they be important if there were no characters moving around in those settings?

Would you choose to read a book because of the title and/or the cover? Again, without characters moving around in the settings with a storyline, what good would a pretty cover and catching title be to you?

And if you read a book because of the back cover information, you might be disappointed when you get inside the book and there are no characters you can cheer for or against, there is no storyline you like, or the settings’ descriptions are dull.

Deciding to read a book can be looked at through all the above lenses. But the best reason for reading a book is because someone whose judgment you trust told you, “You gotta read this book, it’s great.” That’s called word-of-mouth and it’s the most effective advertising and promotion a writer can hope for. Rob Eagar calls this “WildFire Marketing” because news can spread from person to person like wildfire.

How do authors get positive news about their book to spread like wildfire? They start the news with a number of people they know, their contacts. The author is certain these folks have enjoyed her earlier books or her blog or newsletter or website. When these contacts read the book and like it they will readily pass the word to others; and those will pass the word to still others. Like a spreading wildfire.

When writing their books, authors must, of course, pay attention to the characters they create, their plot/storyline, settings’ descriptions, cover, title, and back cover information. They must do effective advertising to get the word out about the book. They must write the best book they can and when you read and like the book, please help the author with “wildfire marketing.”

What was the last book you read that you recommended to someone? Why?

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

COTT Staff Clash Winner

2011-09-27T07:00:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Delia Latham for taking the crown in last week's Staff Clash. Two anonymous COTT staffers went into the ring and readers had another hard choice to make. Some said:

"This was a cruel choice!! LOL! They were both excellent."
(About Delia's excerpt): "Beautiful words expressing emotion and making the reader want more."
"Intense emotions on both excerpts! Great job!"
"Terrific excerpts!"
(About Katie's excerpt): "I need to know Wulf better! I have a feeling he's dreamy."
"Awesome clash with two well-written, emotion-packed scenes! Great job, authors!"

Of course, nobody knew at the time that those authors were Delia Latham and Katie McCurdy.
Both are recent additions to the staff. Delia has come on board as a Blog Alliance Correspondent, and Katie is the official Talent Scout. (Looks like COTT scouted some talent when they found these two gems.)
This fun excursion was a great interjection into the usual good times shared at Clash of the Titles. This week sees another fierce challenge with nameless authors nominated by COTT staff. Be sure to head over there and vote now!

And in just 2 weeks, the party begins! Mark your calendars for October 10th and be ready to play for extra prizes all month long as COTT celebrates it's first anniversary. Your vote will determine which of the year's winning authors will receive the ultimate honor: the Laurel Award.

* by Assistant Editor of COTT, MichelleMassaro

Don't Worry, Be Happy

2011-09-26T10:30:00.001-05:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

How was your weekend? I love the weather this time of year. Like the story of The Three Bears, days are not too hot, not too cold, but just right for indoor or outdoor activities. Activities like going to a ball game, going on a road trip, or entertaining out-of-town relatives.

Another activity you can do all year round, but which is especially enjoyable this time of year: sitting outside, marveling at God’s creation. Maybe you lie in a hammock, sit on the steps of a small porch, or sit in a rocking chair on the porch and watch the world go by.

In decades past families would all sit on the porch, some in rocking chairs, some in the porch swing. As other families would pass by on the sidewalk they would speak or throw up their hand in a greeting. Those on the porch would reciprocate. I wonder if those folks even knew the word “stress” as we know it today.

I’m not sure our younger generations could be content sitting on the porch, enjoying one another’s company. They really have no knowledge of such a pastime; at times it seems they have no leisure interest. They’re always moving, going to and fro. They seem never to stop and “smell the roses.”

Nowadays all generations—young and old alike—become involved in so much that steals their time. Of course, we have stress; what’s more important is how we handle stress. Basically I don’t worry. Before you scream no way, I do have healthy concern at times but I don’t worry. Worry will not change anything! Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is out of our control; today we have the opportunity to reflect, be concerned if we must, and enjoy the blessing of another day.

Do you have stress? How do you handle your stress? Please don’t let it overtake your days.

"The best thing about the future is that it comes only one day at a time." --Abraham Lincoln

Put a smile on my face … leave me a comment. Till next time … keep on smiling.

Looking at a Blank Screen?

2011-09-22T07:00:00.001-05:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

You’re planning to write…a magazine article, a short story, poem, novella, or novel. But as you stare at the blank computer screen you’re unable to come up with any ideas. Sound familiar? Let’s discuss potential ideas that are just lying at your fingertips or brain-tips.

Have you ever been poor (dirt poor as we say in the South)? If so, remember how you coped; did you have only two dresses for the week of school; no money for a trip to the drug store with those you’d like to befriend? Did you ever have family or friends who were poor? How did they adapt to their necessary lifestyle?

Have you ever been rich—old money or new money? Did you have family or friends who were rich? Did they shun you and look the other way as they saw you? It seems the rich sometimes feel they must act rich, and that usually means turning up their noses at those not in their social circle.

Have you ever been seasick whether from a paddle-propelled wooden fishing boat or a streamlined ski boat or a cruise ship? After paying your hard-earned money for the vacation of your lifetime then getting seasick, how did you feel—physically and mentally?

As a child were you certain that monsters resided under your bed and roamed your room after the lights were turned off? You’d excitedly listened to ghost stories with a group, but now alone in your bed the fear settled over you. How did you work yourself out of that monster mindset?

Did you, a family member, or a friend ever suffer extensively from a debilitating disease? If so, did you see pity in others’ eyes as they offered to help? As you felt the enormity of the disease, how did you get out of bed every morning? Or did you?

Okay, the above are just some scenarios you can draw from to jumpstart your writing. These ideas can be real, which you can fictionalize in your writing. Or they could never have been on your experiences list. When you have an idea, as farfetched as it may seem, write it down; keep a folder for ideas and drop you notes into it. You may never use some of them but they are there in case you need to percolate your writing.

Watch and listen to people in the mall, coffee shop, or grocery store. Stories are all around us almost everywhere we are. If you’re a writer, you can run with these ideas and get inspiration to write your short story or maybe even a novel. It’s worth a try. What can it hurt? If you want to be a writer, brainstorm for ideas and then write.

“Just don't give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don't think you can go wrong.” –Ella Fitzgerald

Till next time … keep on smiling.

How, Then, Shall We Live?

2011-09-21T07:00:00.002-05:00

Guest blogger today is Karen Ball. Karen is an award-winner editor, author, and speaker who loves honoring God through the wonder of words. Thank you, Karen, for allowing me to re-post your blog here. You can visit with Karen at her website and also on her blog.

How, Then, Shall We Live?

by Karen Ball

The answer for me, at least lately, has been:

In anger.

Resentment.

Frustration.

Rage.

So many things have gone wrong in the last few weeks. Things that left me feeling God had stepped out and forgot to step back in. And so I raged. And whined. And kicked and screamed. And bit by bit, the anger simmered, then boiled over. My spirit turned black as tar and weighed me down until all I wanted to do was hide out, under the covers, not even peering at each new day that dawned. Because [I] knew...

New day meant new struggles.

Even this morning, I crawled out of bed, fighting the weight of dread that clung to me like quicksand. What would come today? What new, horrid thing would slam into me, shattering my heart and hope, fueling the roiling, scorching anger within?

What came?

Words from friends, fellow travelers on this rocky, rugged path. Not platitutdes, but gut-level truth. Truth that rocked me, turned my angry, stiff-necked stance into wobbling rubber until my knees at last folded and I went down. Not to defeat...

But to surrender.

God hasn't stepped out. He's here. In the midst of every, ugly moment. In the face of every assault and strike the enemy makes to undermine, engrage, and debilitate. All of which he'd done oh-so-well in the last few weeks. Because instead of turning my eyes to the ONE, I focused on the one: me. On all I was losing. On the cost to me. And in so doing, I lost sight of what really mattered.

And so I start again. Today. This moment.

And God, who has never left me, not for a beat of hummingbird wings, opens His arms and wraps me in them, whispering forgiveness and peace.

My prayer today is this: May we find Truth in the trials. May we turn our eyes from outrage, anger, and fear and focus instead on Christ. Broken, bleeding, giving all for us. Dying, forgiving with last breath. Risen, restored, returned to the glory that is His--and ours, through Him.

Nothing that comes to us is a surprise to Him. Nothing is beyond His power and control. Nothing is greater than He, wider than His love, deeper than His will. We are His.

And that is enough. No, more than that...

It's amazing.

So how, then, shall we live? In wonder. In grace and peace. In the spirit of Charles Gabriel, when he penned these words:

I stand amazed in the presence of Jesus, the Nazarene. And wonder how He could love me, a sinner condemned unclean.

How marvelous! How wonderful! And my song shall ever be: "How marvelous! How wonderful is my Savior's love for me!"

For me, it was, in the garden He prayed, "Not my will, but Thine." He had no tears for His own griefs, but sweat drops of blood for mine. In pity the angels beheld Him, and came from the world of light to comfort Him in the sorrows He bore for my soul that night.

How marvelous! How wonderful! And my song shall ever be: "How marvelous! How wonderful is my Savior's love for me!"

He took my sins and my sorrows, He made them His very own. He bore the burden to Calvary and suffered and died alone. When with the ransomed in glory His face I at last shall see, 'twill be my joy through the ages to sing of His love for me!

How marvelous! How wonderful! And my song shall ever be: "How marvelous! How wonderful is my Savior's love for me!"

Happy Anniversary, Clash of the Titles

2011-09-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Anniversary, Clash of the Titles!

It's been almost a year since COTT opened its voting-booth doors and invited everyone in. Over the past twelve months, readers have chosen 25 Clash winners and received 48 free books. And along the way, a family formed. That family consists of the voters, authors, staff, and the 25+ blogs who have banded together in mutual support with COTT.

This is cause for major celebration! So COTT is doing it up to the nines.

Clash of the Titles' first annual Tournament of Champions begins next month! Over the course of four weeks, past winners from the previous year will compete in a series of clashes for the ultimate prize: the Laurel Award. The Laurel, COTT's most prestigious honor, is awarded by public vote to a single author among the year's champions.

Voters are expected to turn out in droves to support their favorites and participate in games just for readers. Each week, COTT sponsors—consisting of various authors and staff—will issue fun challenges to readers along with the chance to win gift cards, critique services, a business card design, and more. A dozen sponsors are lined up for the event so far. That's a lot of prizes!

Throughout the month, details and updates on the Tournament of Champions will be shared on the COTT website and featured within the Blog Alliance. To help spread the word, please grab the special Tournament Button (below) to display on your site. Then send a link to your page to: contactcott at gmail dot com to enter the special COTT Shout-About drawing. The drawing will take place during the first week of the Tournament and the winner will receive a Clash of the Titles mug.

Please also consider Tweeting or sharing this article on your Facebook wall.

(it only takes a second--just click the share button.)

Mark your calendars and spread the word. This BYOV (Bring Your Own Vote) party begins on October 10th!

* Michelle Massaro is the Assistant Editor of COTT and a writer of contemporary Christian fiction. Find her on Twitter @MLMassaro or Facebook.

Multitasking, Anyone?

2011-09-19T18:45:00.000-05:00

Monday Musings on This 'N That

Multitasking is a relatively new word for what many of us have been doing all our lives. Merriam-Webster online dictionary says the term “multitasking” had its first know use in 1966. Wow! Some of us weren’t even alive then.

Again, from Merriam-Webster online the definition of multitasking: “the performance of multiple tasks at one time.” Well, there you have it. Keeping that definition in mind, do you think one can multitask and do all the tasks well?

Let’s see…as you read this do you have any other tasks going on? Are you using your printer; are you drying clothes in the dryer; or washing clothes in the washer; loving on your pet; looking at the dust around you and declaring the dust bunnies will be done by nightfall; sorting things in your desk drawers???

Or after you’ve read this and left your computer, do you help your child with homework while cooking dinner; while you’re doing anything are you thinking of other things you must do; are you holding the telephone between your ear and shoulder while you do things with your hands; are you texting on your mobile phone and staying in a live conversation with those around you; do you read and watch TV at the same time???

So, how do you multitask all you do and do each thing well? My mind is never blank unless I’m sleeping. I have to put each thing in its separate place and accomplish it in its own time.

I went for years without a Day Planner lying beside my computer. I finally got to the place where I really needed one. I make my lists for each day and stick to them. Some (well, several) days I don’t get to check off everything on my list. When that happens I circle the undone and draw a line from the circle into the next day’s block. Yes, some days I have several of those lines! But with my Day Planner lists I don’t have to look at the blank computer screen and try to remember what I’m supposed to do that day. My Day Planner helps to rid me of some doubts and anxieties.

So I guess instead of multitasking I compartmentalize my tasks. According to Merriam-Webster online compartmentalize means “to separate into isolated compartments or categories.” They say the word has been around since 1925. So people compartmentalized before they ever knew the work multitask. Mmmmm.

Let’s just make it simple: it all comes down to priorities. Prioritize things you have to do. That’s how my Day Planner helps me. I can see what comes first, second, etc. The definition of prioritize from Merriam-Webster online: “to list or rate (as projects or goals) in order of priority." The word “priority” was used first in 1961. Of course, some days you have to change up your list when something unexpected comes up. You have to be prepared for inevitable change and emergencies.

“The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today. Let us move forward with strong and active faith."

--Franklin Delano Roosevelt

So, what tips can you share about how you multitask and how good you are at it?

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Hold on to Patience and Hope

2011-09-15T07:00:00.001-05:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

Today I’m going to talk a bit about a writer trying to get published these days. This is in no way a plea for sympathy and I’m not having a “pity party.” Just looking at one of the dynamics within the publishing world.

As you may know I’ve finished my first novel, a historical romance titled That Summer. My agent, Lavonne J. Stevens, is sending info to publishers about my book. Two publishers have said “No because they want a previously established author with a history in mainstream inspirational fiction.”

I fully understand the publisher’s position here. I’m published in mainstream inspirational nonfiction. Therein lies the culprit: this is my first try at being published in mainstream inspirational fiction. And I’m not an established author of fiction. I have no record to prove to a publisher that my book will sell because my previous books have sold.

My position here with my first novel is the same as a kid trying to get his first job. Nobody will hire him because he has no experience. But if someone won’t hire him how is he going to get any experience? If you’ve been there or near a young person in this situation then you can relate to his woes. That’s about where I am: I can’t get my first novel published—yet—because I’m not established. But how can I get established if no publisher decides to publish my first novel?

So, what would you do in my shoes? What I am doing is using every patience muscle in my body to stay calm and wait this out. I’m certain there’s a publisher out there who, when they read my manuscript, will feel the emotions of my characters and will be eager to give me my first “job” on the way to becoming an established author with a history in mainstream inspirational fiction.

I have faith and trust in my agent and know that she is looking out for me and That Summer and that all this troublesome time will turn out okay. In the meantime I'm strengthening my hope by writing my next novel. Why work on a second novel when the first one hasn’t sold? Because when that certain publisher says Yes, I’ll be able to tell them that of course I can get a second book to them in a very short time!

"God is the only one who can make the valley of trouble a door of hope."

--Catherine Marshall

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

Snappy Dialogue Winner

2011-09-13T07:00:00.002-05:00

Guest writer today is Jennifer Slattery*
Marketing Manager of Clash of the Titles (COTT)

The other day my daughter orally lamented a previous conversation. “I always think of my best come-backs too late.” I know how she feels, although I’m probably on the other end of the spectrum—I often wish I hadn’t said X or Y once the conversation is done. At least in writing we can carefully craft our words, which should make it easier, right? Not necessarily. Writing effective, authentic, snappy dialogue is a skill that must be honed. And yet, when done well, it plunges the reader deep into the story and provides vivid characterization.

Last week two authors threw their “chatty-keyboards” into the Clash of the Titles' ring and although both excerpts were phenomenal, Sarah Sundin, author of A Memory Between Us, wowed readers with her printed banter.

Here’s a snippet of her COTT competing excerpt:

Jack made out Ruth’s shapely figure coming down Northgate Street. She couldn’t afford the new olive drab uniforms some of the nurses wore, but she sure looked smart in the dark blue jacket and medium blue skirt.

Jack stepped back around the corner. He unzipped his lightweight leather flight jacket, made sure his shirt collar was open, and stuffed his hands into the pockets of his olive drab trousers. Had to look casual.

He let Ruth pass, then fell in behind her. “‘One misty moisty morning.’”

Ruth looked over her shoulder and smiled.

“‘When cloudy was the weather, I chanced to meet an old man clothed all in leather. He began to compliment and I began to grin. How do you do? And how do you do? And how do you do again?’”

Amusement crinkled her eyes. “It’s afternoon.”

“Yeah, but it’s misty and moisty. Life in England has taught me what that means.”

“No misty moisty mornings in California?”

“In January, not August.” Jack proceeded down the flagstone sidewalk. “And look, you chanced to meet an old man clothed all in leather.”

***
Gotta love that phrase, “Misty, moisty morning,” an example of great dialogue and fun alliteration!

The story it came from is about a determined soldier on a mission to win a woman’s heart:

Major Jack Novak has never failed to meet a challenge--until he meets army nurse Lieutenant Ruth Doherty. When Jack lands in the army hospital after a plane crash, he makes winning Ruth's heart a top-priority mission. But he has his work cut out for him. Not only is Ruth focused on her work in order to support her orphaned siblings back home, she also is determined not to give her heart to any man.

As the danger and tension of World War II rise to a fever pitch, Jack and Ruth will need each other more than ever. Can Jack break down her defenses? Or are they destined to go their separate ways?
From the English countryside to the perilous skies over France, A Memory Between Us takes you on a journey through love, forgiveness, and sacrifice.

Sarah Sundin is the author of A Distant Melody. Her great-uncle flew with the US Eighth Air Force in England during WWII. Sarah lives in California with her husband and three children.

Romance, tough, rugged men, and rich history make this novel a must read!

Want to nibble on a few more COTT winning excerpts and win great prizes in the process? Make sure to join us for the ultimate literary challenge where COTT winners go head to head in our Tournament of Champions on October 10^th to November 4th! What better way to launch the Holiday season than with a stash of great books won in our tournament give-away?

*Jennifer Slattery writes for Christ to the World Ministries, Samie Sisters, Afictionado, the Christian Pulse, and is the marketing manager of the literary website, Clash of the Titles. She also co-hosts (with five other authors) the Facebook faith community, Living by Grace, a modern-day “meet at the well” experience where believers around the globe can unite, fellowship, and be refreshed. Visit her devotional blog, Jennifer Slattery Lives Out Loud to find out more about her, her writing, and the ministries she writes for.

And make sure to hop on over to Clash of the Titles to help determine our next literary champion!

Do You Use a Smartphone?

2011-09-12T07:00:00.002-05:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

I struggle with all things technical. Okay, my cell phone has been turning itself off on its own. It would go out when I was having a call, when I was setting my clock for a time to remind me of something, and when I would open it to make a call it would have turned itself off while in my pocket.

I needed a new cell phone. I’ve been qualified for an upgrade for some time and as my outages with my current phone became more and more frequent I gave in. I’d go to AT&T’s phone place and get a new cell phone.

I didn’t want a smartphone. I’m not smart enough to do what all they can do. And I don’t want to learn. I only wanted a cell phone that I could use to make calls and photos. Period. My granddaughter wanted me to get a phone so that we could text. No, thank you.

I knew what brand I wanted because my first cell phone was trustworthy and I’d decided to get that brand again. I told the young man I wanted an LG cell phone. As I followed him, I noticed he passed walls and walls of phones. Finally we reached the smallest wall display in the store and he pointed to one phone and said here’s an LG. The phone didn’t appear to be a flip phone, which is what I was used to. I told him I wanted a flip phone.

Guess what? He said they’re not really making many flip phone styles anymore. He had two flip phones in the store and neither was my preferred brand. He had only one LG phone in the store and it came in one color—black. ONE. All the phones in this area appeared to be ones where part of the phone would slide to uncover the number pads.

So, they didn’t have a flip phone in my brand and had only one in my brand to choose from. That’s like a shoe store having your size in only one style, one color. Choosing from several styles and colors is the fun of shopping isn’t it, ladies?

I told the young man I would take the LG. As he was going toward the stock room to see if they had one, I called after him, telling him if they had one in red to please bring it to me. He didn’t reply. He didn’t even chuckle or smile. So now I have a black LG "slide" cell phone, which is probably the last one of its kind; by the next time I upgrade there probably won’t be a cell phone simple enough for me to use.

Christie Brinkley once said she didn’t have an answering machine and didn’t want one. She said if they get me, they get me; if they don't, they don't. Yay, Christie!

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Writers Write, Readers Read

2011-09-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading and Writing

Readers: When you read a novel do you ever think about the person who wrote the book? Do you ever have these thoughts: where did this author come up with this story; where did the author find these characters; are the characters like real people in the author’s life; is this really fiction, etc.?

Writers: When you write your novels do you ever think about your readers? Do you ever have these thoughts: what kind of person will read my book; will both women and men read my book; will readers like my book; will readers like my story and my characters, etc.?

Readers: When you’re nearing the finish of a novel do you ever try to figure out the ending beforehand? Do you ever have these thoughts: will the bad guys get caught and punished; will the good guys be happy in the end; will the ending surprise or disappointment me; will I be glad I read this book, etc.?

Writers: When you write your novels to you try to make the story unpredictable? Do you ever have these thoughts: will my readers figure out the ending before they get there; will the ending surprise; will the ending disappointment them; will the characters’ outcome be pleasing to my reader, etc.?

Readers: When you read a novel do you ever wonder about where the writer’s physical location is when writing the book? Do you ever have these thoughts: does this author write books at the kitchen table; does this author have a professional office; did the author begin like J.K. Rowling, writing her story on napkins in a coffee shop, etc.?

Writers: Do you have a professional office where you do your writing? If so, is your office in your home or away from your home? Or do you use a legal pad and pen to write your stories wherever or whenever you can? In nice weather do you ever write outside?

Summary: I would guess that we—readers and writers—at some time have asked ourselves some of these questions. As a reader I think probably most readers would answer yes to their questions above. As a writer I know that I would answer a resounding yes to the writers’ questions above. I do write on a computer so guess that’s the end of any comparison between me and J.K. Rowling.

Considering all of the above, that’s one reason why authors have book signings—hoping they will meet those who read their books. And as a reader I’m certain it’s a lot of fun to meet the writers of books I have loved.

So maybe authors and their readers have a “mutual admiration society.” Writers write and readers read and they all live happily ever after.

"I finally figured out the only reason to be alive is to enjoy it."

—Rita Mae Brown, American writer

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Dialogue--Snappy Dialogue, That Is

2011-09-06T07:00:00.004-05:00

Coming Up at Clash of the Titles, October 10-November 4, 2011

The first annual, Tournament of Champions!

Over a FOUR week period, SIXTEEN previous COTT champs will face-off in EIGHT different mini-Clashes.

Only ONE will take home The Laurel Award.

With Clashes, games, and prizes galore, you won't want to miss this month-long celebration!

********

*Guest post by Lisa Lickel

Dialogue lets your characters be heard. It’s their voice; their conversation amongst themselves. It’s how they tell their story. Dialogue is talk. Discussion. Arguments. Jokes. Questions and answers. Foibles. Mystery. Mesmerism. It’s the muscle on the skeleton of the story.

The writer’s ability to conquer natural dialogue comes out of how well we know our characters. The reader’s ability to hear natural-sounding dialogue comes from the depth from which he is drawn into the story.

Using dialogue in a book helps readers see that characters spend time with each other for a reason, even if they’re stranded on desert islands. Tom Hanks had Wilson in the move Cast Away, after all. Dialogue is more than internal mutterings or their revelations to the reader. It needs to be heard, not just read. The words need to translate immediately to sound in the reader’s inner ear, and thus be natural, no matter the setting.

What can we deduce from these two small pieces of the excerpts in this Clash? Are you in time, in story, in the character’s emotions? Can you cheer for them? Figure out exactly what will happen next, or are you eager to turn the page for more?

“Would you mind if I walked with you?”

“As long as we’re not together.”
“All right.” He strode into the street and spread his arms as wide as his grin. “There. We’re not together.”

“Jack!” she cried…. “Get back up here.” Ruth motioned frantically. “Don’t make me fix you up again.”
OR

“Perhaps you cannot wait for the wedding night?”

Her brown eyes simmered. “Why you insufferable cad!” She raised her hand to slap him.
He caught it and lifted it to his lips for a kiss, eyeing her with delight.

She studied him then released a sigh. “You tease me, sir.” Snatching her hand from his, she stepped back. “But what would I expect from you?”

In a novel, talk must have a purpose. A conversation shouldn’t be talk for the sake of filling time or space. Readers have only until the last page to spend with people in a book, so writers must not waste time. Dialogue is meant to reveal something useful, important to the story line—passion, motive, or confession.

Why Snappy? Characters must speak true to their nature. While snappy it might not describe the personality, it implies action, tension, perhaps a slip of the tongue or a revelation that might even surprise the character, but certainly should surprise the reader.

Clash of the Titles hopes you are intrigued by these little snippets of story and want to find out more about the books and authors. Stop by and you’ll get that chance! Meet the authors and leave comments to enter the drawing for a free book.

*Lisa Lickel is a Wisconsin writer who lives with her husband in a hundred and fifty-year-old house built by a Great Lakes ship captain. Surrounded by books and dragons, she has written dozens of feature newspaper stories, magazine articles, radio theater, and several inspirational novels to date. She is also the senior editor at Reflections in Hindsight.

Seasons

2011-09-05T07:00:00.003-05:00

Monday Musings on This ‘N That

Folks in the South love their collegiate football, marching band, and cheerleaders. When the college football games begin in the South you know autumn’s around the corner. All other sports in the South are secondary to football, but there are other sports; and they almost always indicate the season.

Basketball, with a small overlap of football, follows and then we know we’re closing in on winter. Then, again, with a tiny overlap in time, baseball follows and we know spring is around the corner. That’s when spring sports blossom: tennis, track, soccer.

I attended a private university near the Mason-Dickson line that didn’t have football. We only had basketball, baseball, tennis, and fencing. We didn’t need all the sports to help us know which season we were having or which one was nearing.

Our barometer for telling the seasons was the locale. Surrounded by majestic mountains, we only had to check the trees and know what part of the year we were in. The tree leaves changed colors like clockwork. When they began to change from green to varied electric hues of red, gold, and orange, that told us about autumn. And when the deep snows came, we definitely knew it was winter and always hoped classes would be suspended.

Each year in late September when I traveled to college I took woolen clothes, jackets, gloves, and scarves. Most likely I carried my winter coat because when I arrived at school the temperature change required my wearing a coat.

I love most sports and have cheered on children and grandchildren in many of them. But remembrances of my time as a college student bring pleasant thoughts of authentic winters, springs, summers, and autumns. And the best part of our winters were when classes were suspended because of deep snows.

As you probably know, I love the seashores. I’ve lived long enough in the South, I’m not sure my blood circulation could survive days upon days when the winter temperatures didn’t get above freezing. So I love my days and I love the remembrances of my yesterdays.

Besides the temperature what lets you know which season you’re in and which is about to be next?

“I think that I shall never see a poem as lovely as a tree.”

--Alfred Joyce Kilmer, poet (1886-1918)

Till next time … keep on smiling.

Interview With Tiffany Colter

2011-09-02T07:00:00.002-05:00

Today I’m talking with Tiffany Colter who is a writer, speaker, and writing career coach who works with beginner to published writers.

JO: Please tell us a little about yourself other than your career as a writing coach.

TIFFANY: I have four daughters, three dogs, two sheep, one husband, twenty chickens, about six ducks [when they come around], and ten cats all on one acre. It is a hobby farm that is growing.

I grew up in the city and now I’m proud to be a 4-H mom. I loved the fair rides and carnivals as a kid, now I go to cake and cross stitch judging and carry on lengthy conversations about the proper light for laying hens.

This is quite a contrast to fifteen years ago when I was in the Honors College at University of Toledo studying international relations with an eye to being a political analyst for the CIA. I spoke three languages fluently by the time I was sixteen and was on my way to a fourth. I have studied in Grenoble, France on scholarship. Was accepted to the American University of Paris but turned it down [for stupid 17-year-old girl reasons] and my best friend in the whole world is my husband.

I love playing board games with my kids and hanging out with my husband.

If given the opportunity I would readily spend a year simply learning things. If I weren’t a writer [or CIA political analyst], I would likely be a college professor because I’d rather watch a documentary than a comedy. So, I’m kind of boring. Laugh!!

JO: How long have you been a writing coach? Did you always want this kind of career?

TIFFANY: I've been a writing career coach for about four years full-time. Prior to that, I've kind of mentored some writers but it was informally. From the time I was six and I wrote my first short-story, all I ever wanted to be was a writer when I grew up. Writing career coach grew out of my desire to learn how to create a market for my fiction writing. I'm an award-winning fiction writer. I won the Daphne Du Maurier Award in 2007 and I really thought my career was on the way up. I secured an agent, who I still have. He's a great, great agent. I was just working on building my platform. I had had some requested fulls (entire manuscript) and things were going great. Then the floor fell out of publishing in 2008, right after things started looking up for me. I had five projects with my agent and I got a single email that listed five rejections.

So, I was really trying to find out new ways to market myself, and develop my platform for my fiction. I realized I loved that part of writing, so I started trying to find ways to help people and that's where becoming a writing coach was born.

JO: As a writing coach are you available to work with nonfiction or fiction writers?

TIFFANY: I work with both. In fact, I help speakers, I help ghost write their books—taking their message and their transcripts and working with them to turn it into books. I have worked with some really great fiction authors, like Jody Hedlund, among others, Tana Adams; and I know if I start listing a bunch of names that I'll forget people and feelings will be hurt—but I have to tell you, I've worked with some great authors. But in non-fiction, I do a lot of marketing copy for businesses. I've published a number of books on business and marketing and business development through my publishing house, Writing Career Coach Press. I also go and teach courses and judge writing contests which allows me to work with a wide range of authors. Finally, I've written for a number of publications including Charisma, Today's Christian, and monthly columns for Suspense Magazine. So, if it has to do with writing, I've done it myself and I've helped other people do it too.

JO: What advice would you give a beginning writer to jump start their writing journey?

TIFFANY: Believe in your writing, but recognize that this is a business. Again, that's not a bad thing. It just means that you need to be willing to understand that you are trying to communicate with your target market. You are rewarded for that with money and opportunities. You are solving a problem [the desire for entertainment and/or growth].

Publishing is changing and a lot of people are trying to figure out what that's going to look like in the next couple of years. I've been writing full-time for eight years and just in that little bit, things have radically changed from people talking about "electronic books," to now people knowing what a Kindle is. So, just recognize it.

I would also say don't be afraid to fail. That was the hardest thing for me in the beginning and I felt like I had to have things absolutely perfect before they go out. You want them to be great. You want the writing to be tight, but don't get so trapped in the sphere of perfection that you never submit because you are going to be rejected. Rejection is part of this business at all levels. Don’t fear it, just work hard to be the best you can and don’t internalize the rejection.

JO: What is the single most important thing you want writers to do to help them succeed?

TIFFANY: Continue to learn!

Recognize that there are three parts to your writing career (and I thank Chip MacGregor for this piece of information). You have to have a great idea with great writing and a strong platform. Work on building two of those three areas at all times.

JO: Once a writer reaches “success,” what should they do to stop celebrating and stay grounded?

TIFFANY: The number one thing is keep writing. I cannot tell you how many clients I encounter that write one book and they just keep revising this book before they write the next thing. The role of a writer is to write. You need to be constantly working on different books. You need to be writing something while you're researching something else, while you're scratching notes on a third thing, while you're revising something else. Always continue learning. Always stay connected with people who are in the area where you want to be. Always work to provide positive information to the industry. Just keep moving forward. Recognize success is not a destination; it's a journey. And that's the main thing that I've learned about success. You never arrive. The challenges just change in shape and style.

JO: Staying focused is required when writing. How do you encourage writers to stay focused when almost all of us are pushed to multitask these days?

TIFFANY: Stay focused by deciding what you're going to do each week and do that one thing. There is so much to do, but you can do little bits of each thing. Decide how you define success each day. Maybe it is a particular word count or the amount of time you spend on something. Then focus on that one thing above all else.

I get into my office between 7:00 and 7:30 in the morning. My office is actually not in my home anymore. It's about 15 minutes away in town. I get there between 7:00 and 7:30 in the morning and I sit down and from 7:00 to noon and make that my prime writing time. That is where I work on the major edits and writing and things like that. Then I start working on correspondence in the afternoon. That way I'm completely focused on what needs to be done and I get the things on my to-do list done first.

The key to staying focused is turn off your phone, don't turn on the Internet, know what you're going to do the night before and write it down so that you don't have to open your e-mail and just get that one thing done. After you've done that one thing, then you can work on the other stuff. That's the only way you can possibly be focused these days. Do not open your e-mail first thing in the morning. Do something productive first.

JO: Where can our readers find you?

TIFFANY: I love to meet people in person whenever possible. They can find me a number of places. I will be at live events in Atlanta, GA; Dayton, OH; and Zanesville, OH during September and October. Online they can find me at www.Writingcareercoach.com or my teaching site www.writingcareercoach.net/tiffany. I also can be reached at my office. I do consultations. The cost is $35 for 50 minutes and we go through and we strategize and coach and then determine what would be the best next step for the person. To schedule an appointment to do that for an initial consult, they can reach me east coast time, 517-936-5896. Tell my assistant you want to sign up for the $35 consultation. For many years $2 was a stretch with my writing, so I offer MANY things completely free on my website. I encourage people to come and read the articles and apply the resources.

TIFFANY: You publish a newsletter and blog. Where can our readers sign up for them?

They can sign up at www.WritingCareerCoach.com

JO: Thank you for spending time with me for this interesting interview.

TIFFANY: Thank you for having me.

Reading a Novel MoreThan Once

2011-09-01T07:05:00.001-05:00

Thursday Thoughts on Reading ‘N Writing

Do you ever read a novel more than one time?

Many of us have watched a movie more than one time; and we watch reruns of TV shows; but novels? Reading takes time and concentration and that competes with the TV remote that can give us instant entertainment. Comparing mindlessly clicking the TV remote and reading a novel more than once is definitely like comparing oranges with apples.

For some time now we’ve lived in a “microwave society”—we’re used to instant gratification. The younger generations may never know about waiting until they have the money before purchasing something they want NOW. Today’s society can’t be compared with that of our forefathers who knew hard work and few luxuries.

If you receive my newsletter you know which are my five favorite novels: A Familiar Stranger by Christina Berry, Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell, Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, Rooms by James Rubart, and Same Sweet Girls by Cassandra King. I’ve read each of them one time. But if I ever read a novel more than once it would be one of these five books.

My decision to read any of the above five novels again would be because of the story and characters; the stories are superbly told and they have memorable characters. But there are so many good novels to read and so little time to read them.

Would you read a book more than one time--fiction or nonfiction? Why? Which books?

Till next time ... keep on smiling.

COTT Champ Lisa T. Bergren

2011-08-30T07:00:00.002-05:00

*Guest post by Michelle Massaro

Congratulations, Lisa T. Bergren, author of Waterfall! Lisa's winning excerpt was discovered by COTT's new Talent Scout, Katie McCurdy. You can read Katie's review here. This YA title is being highly-praised by adults and is only the second YA title to win at Clash Of The Titles. Visit Lisa's site to learn more about her.

About the book:
Gabriella has never spent a summer in Italy like this one.

Remaining means giving up all she’s known and loved…

and leaving means forfeiting what she’s come to know…and love itself.

Most American teenagers want a vacation in Italy, but the Bentarrini sisters have spent every summer of their lives with their parents, famed Etruscan scholars, among the romantic hills. Stuck among the rubble of medieval castles in rural Tuscany on yet another hot, dusty archaeological site, Gabi and Lia are bored out of their minds… until Gabi places her hand atop a handprint in an ancient tomb and finds herself in fourteenth-century Italy. And worse yet, in the middle of a fierce battle between knights of two opposing forces.

And thus does she come to be rescued by the knight-prince Marcello Falassi, who takes her back to his father’s castle—a castle Gabi has seen in ruins in another life. Suddenly Gabi’s summer in Italy is much, much more interesting. But what do you do when your knight in shining armor lives, literally, in a different world?

Sounds amazing, doesn't it? No wonder it won! If you're ready to read it, head to Amazon now. You can read Lisa's COTT interview here or check out her excerpt here. Lisa, welcome to the COTT Hall of Fame. We're very happy to have you join us!

Readers, do you hunger for a well-written convo--one dripping with sarcasm or perhaps laced with unspoken meaning? Maybe you like a quick wit or a character whose comments make you LOL. Wish you could influence the dialogue of the fictional characters you read? This week COTT is hosting a showdown for the Snappiest Dialogue. Hurry on over and let our authors know what you like, and what you long to see, in the spoken interaction between characters. See you there!

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* Michelle Massaro is the Assistant Editor for COTT and has a passion for evangelizing through fiction. She writes contemporary inspirational novels with heart-rending themes intended to frame the message of God’s healing love. Michelle has written for Romantic Times, Circle Of Friends, and Pentalk Community, among others. Find her on twitter @MLMassaro, Facebook, or her blog, Adventures in Writing, and join the fun.