Yep, I finally settled on a title for my new book - Under Construction. Since books in the works are truly built brick by brick, that's how the title was born.
I've already received my proof from the printers and am now working on finishing up some promotional ideas, along with prepping information to share here and on my main site. I'm still planning on having the book available in printed and ebook form, but will also share much of the content for free, since my whole purpose is to help other writers.
More updates to come.
Showing posts with label Newsy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Newsy. Show all posts
2/12/14
1/29/14
Update
The creativity to come up with blog posts may sometimes elude me, however, I've been hard at work with not only my arts and crafts hobby, but finishing up a project that has been bugging me for literally years. What started out as some ideas to help and encourage others in my writers' group, has now become a book that other writers can access, too. My plan is to release it as a paperback book and an ebook. I will also make available much of the information either here, and/or my main website for free. This particular project is one I simply hope can assist other aspiring writers. Surprisingly enough, I already have in mind what I might do with a second book of the same kind.
For now, I'm caught up on the title, of all things. But once that's accomplished, I'll be self-publishing the book and announcing it here and my other online locations.
For now, I'm caught up on the title, of all things. But once that's accomplished, I'll be self-publishing the book and announcing it here and my other online locations.
5/13/13
Just a Casual Update
With a new season comes new inspiration. Or at least that's the way it should be, yes?
I love springtime because finally, finally, the snow and cold are gone. I find myself itching to clean, organize, and, of course, write. Thankfully, I have a perfect place to put my creative juices to use: my current novel.
As I look down at my last few posts (and realize, to my dismay, how little I've said here lately), I see it has been just over a year since I started my unnamed novel. Thankfully, after a long winter dry spell, I'm back into the swing of things, and also up to chapter twenty. My protagonist, Emeline, is progressing nicely, as are two of my main male characters, William and Aylwin. The plot has thickened as Emeline has been forced to flee for her life - not something one might envision when thinking about a princess.
All in all, I'm enjoying writing this fantasy plot immensely. While it's a new genre for me, and has presented some mind-stretching experiences, I love the limitlessness of forgetting about reality and simply basking in my own imagination.
On that same note, it is not only I working on this book, but my partner in creativity, Alicia Kraft. I may put the pen (or keyboard, as it were) to use, but she has provided countless hours of brainstorming and plot forming. She may believe I am joking when I say her name will be going on the cover along with mine. Little does she know that I am indeed going to insist credit where it is due.
I've been kept busy these past few months not only with writing, but with artwork and craft projects - something relatively new to my hobbies. And while I've been horrible and keeping up with this blog lately, I've done a better job on Facebook. So don't forget to visit me there too.
With plans to be back here soon, I'm off to another scene in my novel. My body may be ready for bed at this time of night, but my brain is far from it. Just one more sentence...
I love springtime because finally, finally, the snow and cold are gone. I find myself itching to clean, organize, and, of course, write. Thankfully, I have a perfect place to put my creative juices to use: my current novel.
As I look down at my last few posts (and realize, to my dismay, how little I've said here lately), I see it has been just over a year since I started my unnamed novel. Thankfully, after a long winter dry spell, I'm back into the swing of things, and also up to chapter twenty. My protagonist, Emeline, is progressing nicely, as are two of my main male characters, William and Aylwin. The plot has thickened as Emeline has been forced to flee for her life - not something one might envision when thinking about a princess.
All in all, I'm enjoying writing this fantasy plot immensely. While it's a new genre for me, and has presented some mind-stretching experiences, I love the limitlessness of forgetting about reality and simply basking in my own imagination.
On that same note, it is not only I working on this book, but my partner in creativity, Alicia Kraft. I may put the pen (or keyboard, as it were) to use, but she has provided countless hours of brainstorming and plot forming. She may believe I am joking when I say her name will be going on the cover along with mine. Little does she know that I am indeed going to insist credit where it is due.
I've been kept busy these past few months not only with writing, but with artwork and craft projects - something relatively new to my hobbies. And while I've been horrible and keeping up with this blog lately, I've done a better job on Facebook. So don't forget to visit me there too.
With plans to be back here soon, I'm off to another scene in my novel. My body may be ready for bed at this time of night, but my brain is far from it. Just one more sentence...
4/23/12
New Project
A new book is in the works. Very different from my previous novels, it's turning out to be quite an adventure... and a bit of a scary one too.
With one chapter written, the book remains without a title. But it is not without purpose. Contrary to my other books, this one will be an allegorical fantasy. There will be a princess in distress. An arrogant king. A sword that cuts to the quick but not the flesh. A noble prince. A dangerous dragon. Unicorns. Fairies. And above all, The Source - the One who made all and is all.
The underlying theme I hope to convey is an ultimate trust in God, and the consequence of being "lukewarm." My choice of not setting things within the realm of reality is to simply enable my imagination to be stretched, and to challenge myself, as a writer, to convey the principles I desire without necessarily being as black and white as my other books have been.
Will I see this project to completion? I hope so. I don't know how long this burst of inspiration will last, but I must pursue it while I can. Updates to come.
1/2/12
Bookshop Up and Running
As promised, I'm sharing the link to my newly updated online "bookshop." Not only do I have my books for sale, but also some items created with my photography and the start of some poetry for framing as well.
I'm still tweaking a few things, but for all practical purposes, it is complete. My main goal was to have it match my main site enough that they looked connected, and to list more than just my books.
You can check it out by clicking here.
I'm still tweaking a few things, but for all practical purposes, it is complete. My main goal was to have it match my main site enough that they looked connected, and to list more than just my books.
You can check it out by clicking here.
12/28/11
Topsy-Turvy Season
It's been a while since I've blogged. Less than a week after my last entry, my grandfather unexpectedly passed away. That was August 25th. Since then, life has taken many turns and had many ups and downs. I've had very little time to dive into my writing, and even less time to spend simply "being." Since my grandfather's passing, my mother and I successfully moved my grandmother into a care center, cleaned out their house completely and sold it (all that in less than two month's time). I thought settling back into a routine would be easy. I was wrong. There is always more.
This holiday season has not been an easy one, due to a plethora of reasons. But my one steadfast hope is that God is in all of the stress, craziness and strife, and He knows how to handle it much better than I do.
During December, I took a deep breath and have made an effort to write. I've been able to write a few short pieces and at least collect a few thoughts in one way or another. I put together a blog for my writer's guild and right now I'm in the process of updating my own webstore where my books and some other new items are going to be sold. Once that's updated I will post again with a link in case anyone is interested.
In the meantime, I hope you and yours are having a blessed holiday season.
This holiday season has not been an easy one, due to a plethora of reasons. But my one steadfast hope is that God is in all of the stress, craziness and strife, and He knows how to handle it much better than I do.
During December, I took a deep breath and have made an effort to write. I've been able to write a few short pieces and at least collect a few thoughts in one way or another. I put together a blog for my writer's guild and right now I'm in the process of updating my own webstore where my books and some other new items are going to be sold. Once that's updated I will post again with a link in case anyone is interested.
In the meantime, I hope you and yours are having a blessed holiday season.
8/19/11
My Newest Book
I'm pleased to say that I hold a printed copy of my new anthology: Smatterings of an Analytical Loner. A collection of 76 pieces, it holds short stories, devotionals, poems and more. Though put together mainly for family and friends, I hope that others will enjoy it as well.
The self-publishing experience has been a good one. I very much enjoyed putting everything together, from creating my own cover from scratch, to formatting the inside pages and preparing them for printing. I have learned a lot and am looking forward to whichever book I finish next that I may self-publish as well.
My collection will be officially "released" soon, as I am still preparing my own website and other announcements. When the book is actually available, I will post again with the information on how to order.
5/22/11
Goals
So far this year, I've thought about goals more than any time else. Maybe it's because we often talk about goals at my Taekwondo classes and it's sometimes the theme of the month. Or maybe it's because my goals have shifted or changed directions lately. Still, goals have always been a difficult thing for me. For without a goal, I cannot fail. Yet without a goal, I lose forward momentum.
I think that's one of the things that has held me back in my writing as of late. Oh, I've still been writing and haven't come anywhere near to ceasing - but it has been much slower. My desire has been there but motivation has not. Ideas have been there, but the will has not. Perhaps it is not a lack of inspiration as I have blamed, but rather a lack of goals.
Recently, I sent out the first query letter in a very long time. It felt good. That one small act has motivated me to finish not only the work about which I queried, but other works too. The goal of having another book published has given me a fresh outlook, new ideas and enthusiasm.
Without goals, forward momentum ceases.
For me, goals can sometimes be intimidating. Sometimes it's easier not to have goals so that I'll never face the possibility of failure. But at the same time, if I never try, I'll never know how far I could have gone. The trick is knowing which goals are attainable and which goals should wait.
My goals for the near future are to finish three of my large writing projects. That is attainable. My next goal? To see them in print. Whether it's by a traditional publisher or self-publishing, that remains to be seen. But no matter, I am confident that I will see them in print if I maintain these two simple goals. After that? Who knows? But without these goals in mind, I'd never move forward.
I think that's one of the things that has held me back in my writing as of late. Oh, I've still been writing and haven't come anywhere near to ceasing - but it has been much slower. My desire has been there but motivation has not. Ideas have been there, but the will has not. Perhaps it is not a lack of inspiration as I have blamed, but rather a lack of goals.
Recently, I sent out the first query letter in a very long time. It felt good. That one small act has motivated me to finish not only the work about which I queried, but other works too. The goal of having another book published has given me a fresh outlook, new ideas and enthusiasm.
Without goals, forward momentum ceases.
For me, goals can sometimes be intimidating. Sometimes it's easier not to have goals so that I'll never face the possibility of failure. But at the same time, if I never try, I'll never know how far I could have gone. The trick is knowing which goals are attainable and which goals should wait.
My goals for the near future are to finish three of my large writing projects. That is attainable. My next goal? To see them in print. Whether it's by a traditional publisher or self-publishing, that remains to be seen. But no matter, I am confident that I will see them in print if I maintain these two simple goals. After that? Who knows? But without these goals in mind, I'd never move forward.
5/18/11
Rethinking, Reorganizing and Revamping
Ahh, springtime. The grey clouds of winter are quickly sailing away on the wind, taking with them the blues and blahs of cold dark nights. And in their place is a big, bright ball in the sky called the sun. Mmm... the warmth sends tingles all over just thinking about it. Springtime not only invigorates my senses, but my soul as well.
Spring brings renewal to the countryside, but often brings renewal in our lives as well. It may not be a huge renewal, but even spring cleaning is a form of taking out the old, clearing space and sometimes bringing in the new.
Along with the physical activities of cleaning and organizing, I've begun reorganizing my thoughts and goals. Assisting a friend and fellow author set up his new website and blog has brought back inspiration for my own sites - this one included. Not sure yet what I'll do or change, but I do plan on spending a little more time around here. It's always been my goal to blog more and keep up with my website more... perhaps this year I will finally accomplish that.
At the same time, it seems spring has brought with it a reignited ambition to finish some of my writing projects. I've started sending out queries to publishers about my Foundation of Novel Writing book. I've begun to finalize my anthology and have decided its publication route. I'm planning on actually finishing my devotion book. My novel? For now, it's on the back burner, but still very much on my plate.
I'm not sure what the months ahead will bring, but I'm looking forward to them. I'm also looking forward to see what new places God takes me.
Spring brings renewal to the countryside, but often brings renewal in our lives as well. It may not be a huge renewal, but even spring cleaning is a form of taking out the old, clearing space and sometimes bringing in the new.
Along with the physical activities of cleaning and organizing, I've begun reorganizing my thoughts and goals. Assisting a friend and fellow author set up his new website and blog has brought back inspiration for my own sites - this one included. Not sure yet what I'll do or change, but I do plan on spending a little more time around here. It's always been my goal to blog more and keep up with my website more... perhaps this year I will finally accomplish that.
At the same time, it seems spring has brought with it a reignited ambition to finish some of my writing projects. I've started sending out queries to publishers about my Foundation of Novel Writing book. I've begun to finalize my anthology and have decided its publication route. I'm planning on actually finishing my devotion book. My novel? For now, it's on the back burner, but still very much on my plate.
I'm not sure what the months ahead will bring, but I'm looking forward to them. I'm also looking forward to see what new places God takes me.
8/13/10
Nutshell
Ahhhh, the weekend. Though there is a lot to do during the next couple days, it still feels nice not to have to go in to work until Monday.
Writing has not progressed much for me. The heat persists. Whether that's the main contributor to my writer's block or not, I'm unsure. I did enter the FW Challenge again last week with my entry The Scent of a Memory. It didn't do very well (placement wise) but at least the feedback was nice. This week's topic is "Discern." Don't know if I'll have the inspiration to enter on that one or not, but we'll see.
Today has been a day of many scrambled thoughts about PublishAmerica. They continue to bombard their authors with emails full of gimmicks and "deals." Their latest strategies include some "interesting" bait surrounding Barnes & Noble. Many are unsure as to how much of what they say is true, though I imagine much of it is simply worded in such a way to make it seem great to authors. However, I have to say that their latest offer to be a go-between for authors and Barnes & Noble takes the cake. They are pushing authors to buy books in order to submit questions or suggestions to Barnes & Noble... I thought that was something any individual could do.
At any rate, that's my current writing world in a nutshell. Until next time, stay cool and let writing take its course, whether speedy or slow.
8/6/10
This and That
I am extremely glad that it is Friday evening. It has been quite a long week - busy and tiring. But with the start of the weekend, it means a little bit of catch-up rest is in order...that and learning how to use the riding lawnmower.
My FaithWriters recent Challenge entry, I Want, didn't place, but I received a lot of nice comments. Sometimes it's a short story that comes to mind, and other times I'm inspired with a poem. I recently asked others if perhaps my poetry was just an easy way out because at times it has felt as though I've whipped out a poem simply because I couldn't get a short story written in time. The overall response I received was thought-provoking. I now see that no matter how God chooses to inspire me, it isn't an "out" or me being lazy. I must realize that while my "norm" might be short stories or devotionals, who am I to direct the inspiration that God provides? So one new goal of mine is to embrace the inspiration that comes to me and not fight it, whether it's a short story, devotional or a poem.
The latest news I have of PublishAmerica doesn't come as much of a surprise. From what I can tell, there are more and more authors starting to question PublishAmerica's methods (or madness as it were). I have seen many complaints lately, mostly pertaining to book prices. While PublishAmerica stands firmly on their way of business, when delving deeper, it just doesn't make a whole lot of sense to the authors.
As a side note, I may be entering the world of Taekwondo. I've always wanted to learn some form of Marshal Art and a friend has convinced me to try it out. My introductory lesson is over a week away and I'm already nervous, but I'm pretty sure that I'll sign up for regular lessons. The stress-relief and exercise alone will make it worthwhile, and who knows... I might gain some new fodder for a future book.
7/22/10
Long Day
It's been a very long day. I feel like I've been run over by a truck, but if asked, I might not be able to say what exactly it was that went wrong or made the hours drag by so.
The new Challenge topic over at FaithWriters is "See." I missed out on "Hear" and "Taste," unable to dig up inspiration. Maybe this week though. I need to enter more again - most of my shorter pieces are born through the Challenges and later I do want to publish my collection.
Things with PublishAmerica have been heating up and I'm sorry to say that it's not going in their authors' favors, including mine. Live and learn and press forward. In the meantime, I've revised my page about PublishAmerica, so you can check that out.
And while my mind is drifting a million miles away, it's probably a good time to shut down for the night.
7/17/10
Heat
Hot, hot, hot! I don't have a thermometer in my room/office, but maybe that's a good thing. It feels about 90, though the humidity contributes to the heat index. Living without air conditioning usually doesn't bother me, but it's a hot one today and it looks like it will be like this the rest of the week too.
After much deliberation, I have been working on this blog all day, switching over to use blogspot instead of my other domain. The other templates just weren't working well and I wanted to free up my domain name as well. So after my big announcement that my blog was revamped... I will have to announce it again. Such is life.
I set out to do a lot of writing today but wound up too lethargic in this heat to even think straight. There's always tomorrow. And if tomorrow doesn't come, that means I'm with Jesus and I don't have to worry about my writings anymore anyway.
After much deliberation, I have been working on this blog all day, switching over to use blogspot instead of my other domain. The other templates just weren't working well and I wanted to free up my domain name as well. So after my big announcement that my blog was revamped... I will have to announce it again. Such is life.
I set out to do a lot of writing today but wound up too lethargic in this heat to even think straight. There's always tomorrow. And if tomorrow doesn't come, that means I'm with Jesus and I don't have to worry about my writings anymore anyway.
7/16/10
Music, Music, Music
Am I the only one that listens to a new favorite song over and over and over… and over? I tend to do that when I find a new song I love. Eventually I wear it out and I have to move on, but quite often I’m known to hit the “back” button on the music player just to hear it again. Right now, I’ve got two new favorites: Burn for You and Tonight, both by TobyMac.
Sometimes I do the same thing while I write. I’ll find a song that fits the feelings of the scene I’m writing (or my own feelings as I write it), and that’s the theme song for that particular scene - or more. Some people might find music distracting, but I find it helpful, whether I’m working, walking or writing.
(Side note: my cloud picture from yesterday was picked as a “favorite” by KETV on their webpage. How neat is that?)
Sometimes I do the same thing while I write. I’ll find a song that fits the feelings of the scene I’m writing (or my own feelings as I write it), and that’s the theme song for that particular scene - or more. Some people might find music distracting, but I find it helpful, whether I’m working, walking or writing.
(Side note: my cloud picture from yesterday was picked as a “favorite” by KETV on their webpage. How neat is that?)
7/15/10
Clouds
A storm rolled through last night and I was able to snap some pictures of the awesome clouds that went overhead.
I was able to upload one of the pictures to our local news station’s website. Check it out: Marshmallow Clouds
God certainly creates some neat looking clouds.
I was able to upload one of the pictures to our local news station’s website. Check it out: Marshmallow Clouds
God certainly creates some neat looking clouds.
11/2/09
It's November
I should write more often. I say that over and over, and my desire is to have more frequent updates about my end of the world. Until I accomplish that, I will share once again.
Discovering the Dawn is now available! That is my biggest most recent accomplishment. It turned out beautifully and I’m thrilled to now be promoting it. After my recent mailing to announce the release, I’m expecting a fair response.
I’m also beginning a partnership in starting a self-publishing company. This is quite the venture but a very exciting one.
My home life has been an adventure of its own as of late. Working, taking care of grandparents as Grandpa has been in the hospital, and trying to keep up at home has been a weight of stress. But, the Lord is seeing me through. My time spent writing has slowed down, but as a friend pointed out, it has not been stolen.
Being a part of the Southwest Iowa Writers Guild has been a pleasure. Involving myself with other writers is a blessing, and I love our monthly meetings.
Next up is work on my next novel, finishing my devotion book and developing my guide for novel writing into something that can be adequately shared with other writers.
Discovering the Dawn is now available! That is my biggest most recent accomplishment. It turned out beautifully and I’m thrilled to now be promoting it. After my recent mailing to announce the release, I’m expecting a fair response.
I’m also beginning a partnership in starting a self-publishing company. This is quite the venture but a very exciting one.
My home life has been an adventure of its own as of late. Working, taking care of grandparents as Grandpa has been in the hospital, and trying to keep up at home has been a weight of stress. But, the Lord is seeing me through. My time spent writing has slowed down, but as a friend pointed out, it has not been stolen.
Being a part of the Southwest Iowa Writers Guild has been a pleasure. Involving myself with other writers is a blessing, and I love our monthly meetings.
Next up is work on my next novel, finishing my devotion book and developing my guide for novel writing into something that can be adequately shared with other writers.
5/28/09
Like Breathing
The end of the month is drawing to a close, but it’s going out with a bang in all areas of my life. May 2009 will be remembered.
First, my writing adventure. I have to share how God is at work. Whenever I hit a low time and begin to question where I’m supposed to go with my writing, God throws something in my lap. This month was no exception. I asked, and I received.
Last night, I was honored to be the guest speaker at the Southwest Iowa Writers Guild which met in Atlantic. It was a different and new experience, but one that I enjoyed and have learned from.
Tonight, I had the privilege of speaking to the ladies circle from the Lewis Church of Christ. It really was a lot of fun. I was able to share my passion with enthusiasm that was returned, and my statements of faith were understood.
Two events right in a row has spurred me on once again. I continue to be encouraged to write.
Recently I was venting my frustrations to a friend, and she asked me why I wrote. I said it was because I have to. She went on to say that I should write because I want to, not because I felt I had to. She was right, however, I had to explain that that’s not what I meant. What I was truly saying, was that writing is like breathing, to me. I cannot live without it. This has been my most recent discovery and lesson.
I am still entering FaithWriters challenges. One article a couple weeks ago received second place. I was pleased with this outcome. My drive to write a masterpiece has been heightened.
Beyond Yesterday is in its final, final editing stage. Next will come formatting, which has me excited. Perhaps I will see it in print by the end of the summer.
Apart from my writing, my home life has changed just slightly. For the first time, we have fewer than three horses of our own. We are down to two. Four and even three were simply too much for us any more. One horse ended up just down the road from us. I can’t decide if I like that or not. It is a change that I’m not sure I was ready for, but it’s here no matter what. While horses have brought me a long way in life, it is an area in which there are parts I must let go.
My work at Deaf Missions continues as we approach a very busy time with many new projects. A passion has become a job, but it is my belief that it is God’s plan.
July is nearing and I am more than ready for my planned vacation. In the meantime though, I am moving forward. Whether it’s my writing, my home life or at work. No matter how slow the progress, an inch forward is greater than a step back.
First, my writing adventure. I have to share how God is at work. Whenever I hit a low time and begin to question where I’m supposed to go with my writing, God throws something in my lap. This month was no exception. I asked, and I received.
Last night, I was honored to be the guest speaker at the Southwest Iowa Writers Guild which met in Atlantic. It was a different and new experience, but one that I enjoyed and have learned from.
Tonight, I had the privilege of speaking to the ladies circle from the Lewis Church of Christ. It really was a lot of fun. I was able to share my passion with enthusiasm that was returned, and my statements of faith were understood.
Two events right in a row has spurred me on once again. I continue to be encouraged to write.
Recently I was venting my frustrations to a friend, and she asked me why I wrote. I said it was because I have to. She went on to say that I should write because I want to, not because I felt I had to. She was right, however, I had to explain that that’s not what I meant. What I was truly saying, was that writing is like breathing, to me. I cannot live without it. This has been my most recent discovery and lesson.
I am still entering FaithWriters challenges. One article a couple weeks ago received second place. I was pleased with this outcome. My drive to write a masterpiece has been heightened.
Beyond Yesterday is in its final, final editing stage. Next will come formatting, which has me excited. Perhaps I will see it in print by the end of the summer.
Apart from my writing, my home life has changed just slightly. For the first time, we have fewer than three horses of our own. We are down to two. Four and even three were simply too much for us any more. One horse ended up just down the road from us. I can’t decide if I like that or not. It is a change that I’m not sure I was ready for, but it’s here no matter what. While horses have brought me a long way in life, it is an area in which there are parts I must let go.
My work at Deaf Missions continues as we approach a very busy time with many new projects. A passion has become a job, but it is my belief that it is God’s plan.
July is nearing and I am more than ready for my planned vacation. In the meantime though, I am moving forward. Whether it’s my writing, my home life or at work. No matter how slow the progress, an inch forward is greater than a step back.
5/3/09
Time for Rest
May. April somehow slipped by into the volumes of the past. It was a difficult month, and my hope is that May will be smoother. God is in control for sure, but a few less wrinkles would be nice.
In my world of writing, I’m finishing up the edits on my book, thinking about my next one, and continuing to enter the FaithWriters challenges. Last week’s “The Composition” won first place. It was my first top placement, and it also puts me in the running for the “Best of the Best” which they will announce come July.
My life at home has been quiet, thankfully. Spring is here, and the garden is in. All I’ve done so far is simply observe, though I’m sure I’ll wind up with dirt under my fingernails soon enough.
And now, life moves on. While I have little to report on, that is good. For without chaos, there is time for rest.
In my world of writing, I’m finishing up the edits on my book, thinking about my next one, and continuing to enter the FaithWriters challenges. Last week’s “The Composition” won first place. It was my first top placement, and it also puts me in the running for the “Best of the Best” which they will announce come July.
My life at home has been quiet, thankfully. Spring is here, and the garden is in. All I’ve done so far is simply observe, though I’m sure I’ll wind up with dirt under my fingernails soon enough.
And now, life moves on. While I have little to report on, that is good. For without chaos, there is time for rest.
1/29/09
“Do you really think you need a publisher to tell somebody about God?” This was a question asked of me by one of my best friends. My answer? A realization and an admitted, “No.” And that is why I have decided to wander into the world of self-publishing for my next novel.
While I work out details with Beyond Yesterday, my devotion book is still in its editing stages, and I will be seeking traditional publishing for it.
I’m learning a lot about patience and endurance lately. Whether intended by God, or simply a natural byproduct of my circumstances, it’s teaching me some lessons. Life has been hard. But not hard enough not to pull through. And certainly not too hard for God.
Today I learned that I might have an opportunity to talk a little about my writing experience on Atlantic’s local cable station. Sounds like a terrifying but neat opportunity there. We shall see what develops.
While I work out details with Beyond Yesterday, my devotion book is still in its editing stages, and I will be seeking traditional publishing for it.
I’m learning a lot about patience and endurance lately. Whether intended by God, or simply a natural byproduct of my circumstances, it’s teaching me some lessons. Life has been hard. But not hard enough not to pull through. And certainly not too hard for God.
Today I learned that I might have an opportunity to talk a little about my writing experience on Atlantic’s local cable station. Sounds like a terrifying but neat opportunity there. We shall see what develops.
1/16/09
Resolution
As January came into full swing, once again I found myself writing a letter to my family and friends about the year gone by. I’ve pasted it below, portraying my feelings about 2008, and my goal for 2009...
2008. Hard to believe that it is now a year of the past, not the present. Time is funny that way. We can turn the hands of our clock back as much as we want, but it does nothing to stop the hands of time itself. Would I want to? Probably not. There’s too much to look forward to in 2009 to want to stay in the past. There can be no joy in living regrets - only in keeping one’s eyes focused ahead to what God has in store.
A YEAR OF PASSIONS
My writing is probably one of the biggest ongoing things in my life (surprise, surprise). In the springtime, my third novel, Silent Ride, was released. Another paged turned in the grand adventure I’m in. Once I had “finished” that project I hit a dry spell in my writing. Though continuing to write daily, unpublished short stories, devotional thoughts and poems were what took up most of my creative time. My novels were put aside until my zeal returned. The lack of interest persisted longer than anticipated, and one novel sat near completion for over a year without being touched. I’m happy to say that just a few weeks ago, the novel bug bit me again, and I’m once more totally engrossed in my books - yes…that was plural.
Beyond Yesterday is the working title of my fourth novel. Its unedited version now awaits publication. The release date? God knows the answer to that one. The hunt for a publisher has risen again, so a portion of my spare time is spent in research. Once I hit “the end” of that novel, it was on to the next. I had started The Right Lead over three years ago, but stopped to write other things. I’ve picked that one up again and am well on my way. It’s a fun plot with enough twists to keep me on my toes as I write, and I look forward to when it will be in print as well.
While I might not have been engrossed in fictional plots during the year, I did take a side trip down a different writing path that led me to write God at the Reins. Written for horse lovers, it contains fifty-two devotions that are horse-related and offer encouragement and inspiration for the Christian walk. My mom has helped me greatly with this project, and it’s been fun. At about the same stage as my fourth novel though, it’s on to the publisher hunt with this one as well.
God has blessed me time and time again through my writing, and I look forward to what He’s got in store for me next.
Apart from manipulating words, I’m still working full-time at Deaf Missions where another passion grows. Being a part of this ministry may sometimes feel simply like a “job,” but there are days that I receive a gentle reminder from God that this is indeed His ministry and I am His tool no matter what small tasks I may be doing.
The more I look back at my spiritual growth, the more I see how far I have yet to go. God had given me ample opportunities for this growth, and I can only hope that I please Him during this next year and beyond. Whether it’s my one-on-one contact with people, or through my writing, my resolution for 2009 is to be a light.
I’m still living in the country, still have horses, and still attend church in Atlantic. Not much has changed, but there are days when that is a blessing in itself.
They say that 2009 will be a tough year because of the economy... I say it will be a great year because it’s the low times that provide even more opportunities for God’s blessings.
May He bless YOU this year. Happy New Year!
2008. Hard to believe that it is now a year of the past, not the present. Time is funny that way. We can turn the hands of our clock back as much as we want, but it does nothing to stop the hands of time itself. Would I want to? Probably not. There’s too much to look forward to in 2009 to want to stay in the past. There can be no joy in living regrets - only in keeping one’s eyes focused ahead to what God has in store.
A YEAR OF PASSIONS
My writing is probably one of the biggest ongoing things in my life (surprise, surprise). In the springtime, my third novel, Silent Ride, was released. Another paged turned in the grand adventure I’m in. Once I had “finished” that project I hit a dry spell in my writing. Though continuing to write daily, unpublished short stories, devotional thoughts and poems were what took up most of my creative time. My novels were put aside until my zeal returned. The lack of interest persisted longer than anticipated, and one novel sat near completion for over a year without being touched. I’m happy to say that just a few weeks ago, the novel bug bit me again, and I’m once more totally engrossed in my books - yes…that was plural.
Beyond Yesterday is the working title of my fourth novel. Its unedited version now awaits publication. The release date? God knows the answer to that one. The hunt for a publisher has risen again, so a portion of my spare time is spent in research. Once I hit “the end” of that novel, it was on to the next. I had started The Right Lead over three years ago, but stopped to write other things. I’ve picked that one up again and am well on my way. It’s a fun plot with enough twists to keep me on my toes as I write, and I look forward to when it will be in print as well.
While I might not have been engrossed in fictional plots during the year, I did take a side trip down a different writing path that led me to write God at the Reins. Written for horse lovers, it contains fifty-two devotions that are horse-related and offer encouragement and inspiration for the Christian walk. My mom has helped me greatly with this project, and it’s been fun. At about the same stage as my fourth novel though, it’s on to the publisher hunt with this one as well.
God has blessed me time and time again through my writing, and I look forward to what He’s got in store for me next.
Apart from manipulating words, I’m still working full-time at Deaf Missions where another passion grows. Being a part of this ministry may sometimes feel simply like a “job,” but there are days that I receive a gentle reminder from God that this is indeed His ministry and I am His tool no matter what small tasks I may be doing.
The more I look back at my spiritual growth, the more I see how far I have yet to go. God had given me ample opportunities for this growth, and I can only hope that I please Him during this next year and beyond. Whether it’s my one-on-one contact with people, or through my writing, my resolution for 2009 is to be a light.
I’m still living in the country, still have horses, and still attend church in Atlantic. Not much has changed, but there are days when that is a blessing in itself.
They say that 2009 will be a tough year because of the economy... I say it will be a great year because it’s the low times that provide even more opportunities for God’s blessings.
May He bless YOU this year. Happy New Year!
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