A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts

A SCRAPBOOK OF CHRISTMAS FIRSTS

(Leafwood Publishers, October 2008)

A wonderful new gift book, A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts, is available in October for Christmas giving. Today, I’ve invited the six coauthors to share their unique story of how they came together to publish this exciting book full of stories, recipes, tips for simplifying the holidays and so much more (click on bookcover to see the trailer!).

First, let me introduce Cathy Messecar, Leslie Wilson, Brenda Nixon, Trish Berg, Terra Hangen and Karen Robbins. Thank you for being here today, ladies.

Karen: Thank you for the invitation.

You are from three different areas of the country—Texas, California, and Ohio. How did you all meet?

Terra: We all six joined The Writers View, an online group for professional Christian writers. Trish and Brenda met in person in 2004 for lunch, I understand, and on 9/18/04, after reading a post Brenda sent to TWV, I sent an email to Brenda, asking if she would like to join with me and walk alongside each other, as a Barnabas group. Brenda said yes that same day, and suggested Trish too. Very quickly Cathy, Leslie and Karen joined in and our stalwart band of six was formed. Living in California, I was so happy to find 5 Barnabas writers in other states so we could bring together a wealth of different viewpoints and expertise

Brenda: Actually, We haven’t met. We’re all great colleagues and friends via the internet. Four years ago Terra and I formed a dyad to support each other as Christians who write in the secular markets. Along came Trish, Cathy, Karen, and Leslie (not necessarily in that order) and we formed a close knit bond of support, creative energy, and professional accountability.

Karen: I met Trish through an online forum called The Writers View and she invited me to join the group.

Trish: Although we belong to the same Yahoo writing group, we met one by one online. Eventually, the six of us decided that since we all write as Christians for a secular market through magazine articles and newspaper columns, we could support and encourage one another.

Leslie: Though we met virtually through The Writers View, I have been blessed to give and get hugs from Trish (at a MOPS conference), Cathy (in the area on business) and Karen (in town for a writers' conference). I can’t wait to meet Terra and Brenda face-to-face, though I feel as though I already know them!

How did you come up with the idea to do a book together?

Brenda: The book is Cathy’s brainchild. She mentioned the concept of telling stories of events that happened for the first time at Christmas and sharing holiday historical tidbits and recipes and each said, “If you need any help, let me know.” That offer morphed into each of us equally contributing and co-authoring A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts.

Trish: Yep, Cathy came up with the idea and the title, and asked us if we wanted to join her on this project. Of course, we said Yes!

Terra: Cathy mentioned the idea for a Christmas book to the group, and someone (I think it was Leslie) suggested that maybe our group could all write the book together. Cathy agreed to lead the way on the project. The earliest email I have on this is from 9/7/05, which shows that this has been a three year collaboration from idea to publication.

Karen: (Chuckling) Terra is a librarian and keeps our historical records by saving our e-mails.

Leslie: Actually, Terra, I wrote that comment (in a group e-mail) kind of tongue-in-cheek. Cathy, the ultra-sweet person she is, took my joking at face value and here we are. However, I believe God prompted the passion and ideas we all bring to the project and that He will do mighty things as a result of our collaboration!

Why did you decide on a Christmas theme?

Brenda: It was Cathy’s concept to write a book centering on Christmas.

Cathy: For several years, I’d been thinking about Christmas as a threshold to introduce Jesus to folks who aren’t familiar with him, and I love a simpler Christmas with the emphasis on family, friends and doing for others. I knew of some families who had experienced “firsts” at Christmas—reunions, losses, special surprises—and I wanted to collect those stories.

Terra: Cathy’s idea immediately resonated with me because Christmas books are “a way past watchful dragons,” as C. S. Lewis wrote. Many people won’t buy a book about being a Christian, but will buy a holiday and family fun book, thus the “past watchful dragons.” People who want to grow in their faith, and people who have no faith but celebrate Christmas will buy our book and hopefully be led to put the focus back on Christ for the holiday, and for their lives.

Leslie: Though Cathy birthed the idea, the rest of us quickly hopped on board. Not only is Christmas special to me—especially now that I have a family of my own—but also that particular holiday cries out to be simplified, to return to the meaningful aspects of celebration, and to lose some of the hype and commercialism.

Tell me a little about what is in A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts? What is your favorite part?

Cathy: I like that you can read one chapter in about 15 minutes and, with all the different suggestions, it feels like Christmas Eve. Makes you want to set up the nativity! Many of the suggestions for family activities can be adapted for any family get-together.

Karen: There are heartwarming stories about things that happened for the first time at Christmas. For instance, one of my stories is about the first Christmas with our adopted children. And the book is pretty. When I first saw the colorful pages and drawings, I fell in love with the illustrator’s work.

Brenda: I don’t have a favorite part – I love it all!

Terra: I like the way the parts are woven into a seamless whole, like a patchwork quilt, that is stronger and more beautiful than the parts.

Trish: It’s like everything you ever wanted to know about Christmas, all the best tips and recipes, and neat stories all wrapped up in this perfect little package.

Leslie: I love reading the special stories, hints, recipes—whatever—and imagining the precious family time that precipitated each moment. Plus, the book is gorgeous, beautifully printed, truly something to be proud of. And we are.

I’ve heard that the book is really a nice gift book; can you tell me a little about the format?

Cathy: Yes, it’s a hardbound book, full color interior. The layout makes it easy to read. It has a definite scrapbooky look on the interior. Different logos identify sections, such as an oilcloth-look Christmas stocking appears beside the “Stocking Stuffer Tradition” (help for connecting family members), and the “Cookie Canister” recipes are on a recipe card, and the back ground of “A Gift For You” is a gift box with bow. It’s a classy gift that they can be placed on a coffee table or in a guest bedroom during the holiday season.

Brenda: I like to describe it as a Starbuck’s sorta gift book. It’s high quality, crisp, and practical.

With six different personalities and areas of ministry, how did you manage to put this all together and still remain friends?

Karen: We pray a lot for each other and it helps that none of us have an over-inflated ego.

Cathy: There were no squabbles. Surely, we had differing opinions, but we knew that any of us could suggest an idea for this book and that each idea would get fair reviews from others. We actually voted on some aspects—everyone in favor say, “Aye.” If you’ve ever watched women at a Dutch treat luncheon when they divide up a meal ticket, it can be intense as they split the ticket down to the penny. As the project came together, I was in awe of my gracious coauthors, unselfish women who respect each other.
For some decisions, we did a round robin—things like book title and chapter titles and what categories to put into the book. Then, as compiler, I’d send out a list of needs to The Word Quilters, that’s what we call ourselves. For instance in a section we call “Peppermints for Little Ones” (hints for children’s activities), I’d put out a call, and the WQs sent in their hints, and then I put them into appropriate chapters.

Brenda: (Smiling) Are we still friends? Seriously, we each have our own platform, ministry, and family life, and those interests kept this project in perspective – it was important but not the only thing on our plates. No one was so enmeshed in this project that she campaigned for her own way. We never had a bitter disagreement or insistence to be “right.”

Terra: We are each other’s biggest cheerleaders.We offer support and ideas for our separate writing projects and for personal prayer requests. I love these ladies, and I have only met one of them in person. So far, Karen is the only one who has met each of us, and one day we hope to meet in person, in a circle of friendship and love.

Trish: I think we are all very flexible and forgiving. We do have a variety of personalities here, but God has worked amazing things through our little group.

Leslie: Though I have seven non-fiction projects in various stages of completion, I could not be more thankful that this is the one to reach publication first. I am truly blessed to have worked with these women, learned from them, watched as they’ve poured heart and soul into crafting a product that will impact lives for the Lord.

Where can my readers get a copy of SOCF?

Cathy: The coauthors will all have a supply, plus our publisher, Leafwood Publishers, will have plenty of copies and discounts for buying five or more. Or they can be ordered at most online stores or by your local bookstore.

Karen: And anyone who leaves a comment here can be entered in a drawing for a free book and a gift basket worth $200! For a list of its contents, check our blog, A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts. And while you're there, leave another comment and increase your chances of winning!

Tell me more about your blog.

Karen: We started our blog in July and it is accumulating a wealth of information about Christmas. Each of us posts one day a week following the theme for that week. Watch for new recipes, tips, ways to simplify, stories, etc., similar to what is in our book.

Leslie: Ooh, ooh, let me answer this one. I’m probably the newest to blogging among the group, but I LOVE it. I’ve enjoyed posting and receiving comments back from readers. What an amazing adventure having an online voice can be! This blog will focus on a different theme each week—anything from tips to avoid overeating during the holidays to how to give a guest room special touches—and expand on the material in the book. I think readers will get to know the authors’ individual personalities and connect on a more personal level. Plus, they get that many more ideas, information, inspiration (!) at no additional cost.

WQs: As an added bonus for inviting us to your blog, we’d like to pass along this Christmas tidbit to you and your readers:

Enjoy a blessed Christmas this year! And thanks for inviting us to share our book, A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts, with you.

WRITE WHAT EXCITES YOUR SOUL

Boy, time sure does fly. Didn’t realize until today that the last time I’d actually written a piece for my blog was in April. For those of you who read it, you might remember I mentioned April as being Poetry Month. I also suggested my readers to join me in the challenge of writing a poem a day for 30 days.

Since I didn’t get any response, you left me to think I’m the only one who enjoyed a month immersed in what I love to do most in life – which is crafting an array of verses. And, if any of you are interested – YES - I wrote all 30 days. (Enthusiastic clapping and cheering fills the air) Will I ever let you read the poems I wrote – probably not, but know I had a grand time penning each one of them.

Some of you might wonder why I’m recapping my musing from April. Really, my rambling have a point (do I hear an AMEN?). My point is: Write What Excites Your Soul. Only then can the words the Lord gave you pour forth onto the blank page. I know this is true because every time I write a ditty and the lines start to rhyme so perfectly (or at least I think they do), I can’t help but smile and know I’m where I’m supposed to be.

So, fellow writers, I recommend you find the type of writing in which you can write what excites your soul. I believe this is what the Lord intended when He gave us the desire to write. Fan the flames. Ignite the passion. Listen to His still, small voice on the road to publishdom. He will show us the way we should go.

nettie

BEYOND THE NIGHT

Once again, I'm given the honor of reviewing an outstanding book. And, as usual, the task at hand scares me half to death because I'm not sure my words will give Marlo Schalesky's novel, Beyond the Night, the justice it deserves.

As I turned the pages of Beyond the Night, Marlo transported me into another time and place. Her compelling love story brought a smile to my face. Other times, her well crafted words made me want to sit and cry for Maddie and Paul. But, when I finished reading, I knew a deeper meaning of God's love for His children.

CAN MADDIE MOVE BEYOND THE NIGHT?

They say love is blind. This time, they're right. As a woman lies unconscious in a hospital bed, her husband waits beside her, urging her to wake up and come home. Between them lies an ocean of fear and the tenuous grip of memories long past. Memories of wonder. Of love. Memories of a girl named Madison and a boy named Paul...

Madison Foster knew she was going blind. But she didn't want pity--not from her mother, not from her roommate, and especially not from her best friend, Paul--the man she secretly loved.

Paul Tilden knew a good thing when he saw it. And a good thing was his friendship with Maddie Foster. That is, until he started to fall in love.

With the music of the seventies as their soundtrack and its groovy fashions as their scenery, Maddie and Paul were drawn together and driven apart. Then one night changes everything...forever.

And only now, when life tiptoes past the edge of yesterday, along the rim of today, can they glimpse the beauty that awaits them...beyond the night.

Thank you, Marlo, and I'm looking forward to your next two books in this series.

nettie

Another Stab at Life

Another Stab at Life by Anita Higman is exactly what I needed to take my mind off of the ups and downs in my own LIFE the last couple of months. Thank you, Anita, from the bottom of my heart.

Once again, you've given me (the reader) suspense weaved throughout the story, but this time you added an interesting character I never expected. And as always, you made me chuckle while I immersed myself in the 247 pages of your Heartsong Presents Mysteries. A thoroughly enjoyable read with a surprise ending. What more could I ask for?

Let me tell you a little bit about Another Stab at Life:

Bailey Walker has just lost everything - her family, her job, and her home. She has nowhere except the dilapidated mansion she's just inherited from her granny Minna. Unfortunately, Bailey discovers that the house has a history as shadowy as its hidden passages and finds the neighborhood overflowing with some rather quirky folks-as well as one particularly appealing bachelor.

Bailey feels like she's trapped inside the pages of a Gothic novel but with a comedic twist. In order to honor her grandmother's wishes and stay at Volstead Manor, Bailey must unravel a string of mysteries and secrets, which will seem determined to stay happily ever ________.

Happy reading!!!

nettie

PS: For those of you who noticed, I left a blank for you to fill in. To find the answer, go to http://www.anitahigman.com/. You better hurry! The first 3 people to email me (miyp@sbcglobal.net) with the answer, will receive Anita Higman's wonderful book.

BLOOD BROTHERS

I’ve just finished reading a book called Blood Brothers. This is Rick Acker’s second book and a sequel to Dead Man’s Rule. Since I didn’t read his first book, I wondered if I’d be confused with the characters he’d already introduced. No need to worry, Rick mastered his storytelling so well Blood Brothers stands alone on its own merit. The intrigue and suspense he weaved throughout the story kept me turning the pages.

Now let me give you a little taste of Rick Acker’s latest novel:

Lawyer Ben Corbin finds himself caught between feuding brothers Karl and Gunnar Bjornsen. Having built a pharmaceutical empire from the ground up, the Bjornsen brothers are now developing a revolutionary new drug, a neural stimulant that increases strength and intelligence. But its potential for success is rapidly destroying them. Warring for control of the company and the drug, Karl sues Gunnar, and Gunnar hires lawyer Ben Corbin to defend him.

But the case involves more than bitter sibling rivalry. Signs of embezzlement, black market deals, and the grisly consequences of the Bjornsen’s new drug begin to emerge. Soon, Ben and his wife, Noelle, find themselves in Norway where the case takes a personal and violent turn.

Happy Reading,
nettie

PS: Oh, before I forget – make sure you hold onto Blood Brothers tightly while you’re reading it. If you don’t, the book might come flying out of your hands at the SURPRISE ending of some of the scenes he’s penned. Just wanted to give you a heads up.

CAN I HAVE YOUR ATTENTION??

Welcome! Today is a special day because I’m helping Allison Bottke spread the word about her new book; Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children: Six Steps to Hope and Healing.

Now I know some of you are wondering why I’m promoting this book since I don’t have children of my own. The main reason I’m doing it is because everyone needs to read this book. Allison states that this topic can’t be ignored any longer. It desperately needs to be addressed. The message in her book is already striking a cord in hearts around the nation.

Allison goes on to say: Our country is in a crisis of epidemic proportion concerning adult children whose lives are spinning out of control—leaving parents and grandparents broken-hearted and confused. This painful issue is destroying individuals, families, marriages, churches, and communities. I believe in my heart that you are reading this message today for a very specific reason. Do you know someone who has an adult child who is always in crisis? An adult child who brings chaos to virtually every situation? Could this painful issue be touching your life today?

If so, there’s a truth I’ve come to embrace that has changed my life—it can change yours, too. It’s taken me more years than I care to admit, but I no longer believe in “coincidences.” The truth I’ve come to embrace is that God is the Master of orchestrating “God-cidences.” He has a plan for who he wants us to meet, what lessons he wants us to learn, even what books he wants us to read. He even has a plan for the trials and tribulations of life.

When we begin to look at everything that happens to us throughout the day as “God-cidences” (and not accidental coincidences) it changes the way we view our world.

That said, my prayer is that you will see the following message and the book; Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children: Six Steps to Hope and Healing as a “God-cidence” placed into your life today for a powerful purpose. Perhaps it’s to help heal your family or the family of a loved one. Perhaps you are here to help us introduce this resource to a broader audience via additional media contacts you may have. Whatever the “God-cidence” may be, please know our primary goal is to bring hope and healing to families around the nation—thank you for helping us.

I pray you will view what you are about to read as a “God-cidence” meant just for you.

God Bless and Keep You,
Allison Bottke

NOW I’d like to share some of the questions I asked Allison about her book. I hope they help you concerning an adult child in your life.

How can we determine whether we are helping versus enabling our children?

ALLISON: Helping is doing something for someone that he is not capable of doing himself.
Enabling is doing for someone things that he could and should be doing himself.

An enabler is a person who recognizes that a negative circumstance is occurring on a regular basis and yet continues to enable the person with the problem to persist with his detrimental behaviors. Simply, enabling creates an atmosphere in which our adult children can comfortably continue their unacceptable behavior.

You say the main problem with dysfunctional adult children isn’t the choice they make or don’t make – but something else entirely. If their choices aren’t the main problem, what is?

ALLISON: Our biggest problem isn’t about our adult child’s inability to wake up when their alarm clock rings, or their inability to keep a schedule, or their inability to hold down a job or pay their bills. It’s not about their drug use or alcohol addictions. It’s not about the mess they’re making of their life. The main problem is about the part we’re playing in stepping in to soften the blow of the consequences that come from the choices they make. The main problem is us. Instead of praying to God to stop the pain, remove the difficulty, or change the life of our adult child, we must rise up and pray for something entirely different. We must pray for the courage to look deep in our own heart and soul—pray for the strength to begin a journey that quite possibly may change our own life—and pray for the wisdom to make new choices in our own life

Why are you so passionate about reaching out to other parents?

ALLISON: Because I’ve been there—I still am in many ways. I’m a parent who has traveled this painful road of enabling. I understand what it feels like to have your heart break because of a choice our adult child has made.

What are some things that parents can do to break the cycle of enabling?

ALLISON: Follow the six steps to S.A.N.I.T.Y.: Stop blaming yourself and stop the flow of money. Stop continually rescuing your adult children from one mess after another. Assemble a support group of other parents in the same situation. Nip excuses in the bud. Implement rules and boundaries. Trust your instincts. Yield everything to God, because you’re not in control. These six things can start a parent on the road to S.A.N.I.T.Y. in an insane situation that is spinning out of control. However, a key issue in breaking the cycle of enabling is to understand whose problem it really is.

What are the six steps for hope and healing you refer to in Setting Boundaries With Your Adult Children?

ALLISON: S.A.N.I.T.Y. Six Steps for Regaining a Healthy Relationship with Adult Children
S = STOP Enabling, STOP Blaming Yourself, and STOP the Flow of MoneyA = Assemble a Support Group N = Nip Excuses in the BudI = Implement Rules/BoundariesT = Trust Your InstinctsY = Yield Everything to the Higher Power of God (Surrender)
From the opening pages, you are very candid in your own struggles to set boundaries with your adult son, in a section titled “Why I Had to Write This Book.”

Why did you feel the need to be so open so quickly?

ALLISON: There are many good books available on boundaries. Most of them are written from the perspective of a psychologist, therapist, counselor, or theologian. Never in my years of searching for help did I find a book on boundaries written by a parent in pain who had walked in my shoes. I wanted readers to quickly understand that this book was different.

Where can my readers go for more information on your book and on the S.A.N.I.T.Y. ministry?

ALLISON: Everything you could possibly need is contained on our web site at: http://www.sanitysupport.com/blogtourguests.htm.

ALLISON: I encourage your readers to tell me what they think about Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children. I really do want to hear reader feedback. They can reach me at: SettingBoundaries@SanitySupport.com. Please be sure to visit our web site at http://www.sanitysupport.com/blogtourguests.htm where they will find additional resources for helping them on their road to S.A.N.I.T.Y. Remember to tell a friend in need and help save a life!

Thank you, Allison, for taking the time to write such an outstanding book. I hope all of my readers have read this special blog today. If you have, you’re in for a surprise. For those of you who leave a message on my blog will be entered into a drawing for a copy of Allison’s book. The winner will be announced May 7th. God bless you!!!!

nettie

MY SAVING GRACE

How many of you know APRIL is Poetry Month? I’m ashamed to admit I didn’t. Writer’s Digest informed me of the fact yesterday morning in my inbox. They also suggested anyone reading the email to write a poem every day for the next 30 days.

Without a moment’s hesitation, I decided to take the month-long challenge. Any opportunity I have to write a poem, ditty, acrostic or verse I jump on it with both feet. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to write poetry. It restores my soul like an extra measure of manna from heaven.

If I showed you my collection, you’d see quite a variety of poems. Some are comical (oh, like that surprises anyone). Quite a few of them reflect my belief in Jesus and the road He and I have traveled for 52 years. The majority of the others I’ve written are the ones I’ve penned after reading an article or heard a sad story. I won’t know the people involved, but their heartache touches a part of my heart and I have to write something down or I’ll burst.

I know not everyone are writers (my one sister almost shakes uncontrollably if asked to put pen to paper), but I believe all of us need an outlet to express ourselves. Mine, of course, is poetry. It’s truly my saving grace.

What’s yours?

nettie

PS: Let me know if you’re going to join me in the poem-a-day challenge!!!

PSS: And, for those of you who are interested, I’m still knocking out pages on my much-anticipated novel. Not to worry!!!

S.U.B.M.I.T.

SUBMIT: A. give way; yield, B. surrender (oneself) to the control of another, etc., C. present for consideration or decision.

All of these definitions apply to the writer’s life, but the last definition (C) is the one I’m going to touch on today. For some of us submitting (presenting for consideration or decision) is too hard to handle. In our mind, the thought of sending something off could literally scare the hair off of a bald man. A few might even think the earth would topple off its axis if we put that envelop into the slot at the post office. Trust me, neither of these absurd things can or will happen if we submit.

Personally, I think it’s FEAR which keeps us from submitting. We’re afraid to let go of our masterpieces. Petrified someone will reject the piece we’ve worked so hard to perfect. “But, nettie. . .my. . .manuscript. . . it isn’t ready. I can’t send it in…yet.” I agree, it probably isn’t completely polished, but unless we release it, we’ll never know what might happen.

Has it ever occurred to us that sending our precious work off doesn’t always bring bad news? It could also bring a letter of acceptance from a publisher we’ve only dreamed about. When this monumental event occurred for me, I’m almost certain the angels in heaven sang the Hallelujah Chorus. . .okay, maybe that’s a little much, but I know there was a celebration going on up there. And, it wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t submitted my stuff.

Ask anyone who’s been published. They’ll tell you there’s not a specific formula. For me, I’m a seat-of-your-pants kind of writer, so I guess that’s what kind of submitter I am, too. Just send it. Take a chance. Hey, I’ve got an idea. Why don’t you join me and submit something this week? When you find out you didn’t die from actually doing it, do it again and again. It doesn’t hurt to submit and one day (SOON) you will get to say the words you’ve only imagined, “I’m a published author.”

nettie

S - Sending off our work creates in us
U - Unbelievable stress and untold strain.
B - But, if you hold on to them until they’re perfect
M - Masterpieces could go unread, unpublished.
I - Instead of touching someone else’s heart.
T - Take a chance – SUBMIT – imagine the possibilities.

The Love Song - Heartsong Presents

Everyone knows I’m a writer (or at least, I give it my best shot), but I’m also an avid reader. So when I’ve read a book I’ve thoroughly enjoyed, I want to tell my family and friends all about it. But today I’m going one step farther – I’m going to give you an opportunity at the end of my blog to win a copy of The Love Song by my friends Anita Higman and Janice Thompson.

Let’s start off with the synopsis to wet your whistle:

“I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten.” Joel 2:24

CLUMSY,..INVISIBLE…UGLY. This is how Clair O’Neal would describe herself on a good day. Coming from an abusive childhood, she is painfully shy and sees herself as a misfit. So when she promises her boss she’ll represent her company at a high-society event, she finds herself completely out of her element.

Image coach Glenn Yves urges Clair to join the party, seeing something in her she cannot see herself. Musician Hudson Mandel rescues her from a moment of likely humiliation. Both men find themselves drawn to Clair’s unassuming presence, her inner beauty, and maybe even her vulnerability.

Can Clair trust their interest and their motives? After so many years without love, would God really bring two men into her life and make her choose between them?

NOW doesn’t that just make you want to run out and buy this book? Hope I’ve piqued your interest to do just that. This poignant love story by my two author friends touched my heart. And after you read The Love Song, I hope it will touch yours, as well.

nettie

PS: Oh, I bet you thought I forgot my earlier promise? I wouldn’t do something like that. HA!! Here’s how you can win a copy of The Love Song – go to www.anitahigman.com. There you’ll find the numerous books Anita has written (fiction and nonfiction). One of her nonfiction books has quite the catchy title. It’s Pets, Never _______ with a Tree Frog. The first three people who tell me at www.nettie-fudges-world.blogspot.com what the missing word is will receive a free copy of The Love Song. Happy hunting!

Here in America

Please listen to this phenomenal video by Diamond Rio. It's a reminder to all of us what this country stands for.

Love,

nettie

PERSEVERENCE

I do believe I’ve just had a light bulb moment. The sad part is it’s taken me quite some time to discover this little nugget. I know you’re all wondering what I’ve found, so I won’t keep you in suspense any longer – it’s. . .

PERSEVERENCE PRODUCES POLISHED PIECES FOR PUBLICATION. (say that 3 times without a hanky!! Oh my goodness)

James 1:2-4 sums it up best. “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

Each one of us face trials every day. And as writers, we deal with more than our fair share of them (do I hear an AMEN?). Every time I send something out to the different publishing houses, it’s a test of my faith. Did they receive what I submitted? Will they be interested in my novel, short story or poem? If I don’t hear a response, do I assume I can send my work out to someone else? Boy, this writing is hard work! I’m not having very much fun.

But wait, didn’t I just read in the verse that I’m to ‘consider it pure joy’ whenever we go through trials of ‘many kinds’. YES, I guess I did. Sounds like the Lord is telling me to change my attitude. Be joyful. Rejoice in the trials I’m going through because I’m developing PERSEVERENCE. Isn’t that the very thing I need to be a writer? Isn’t that the very thing I need to help me resend my work after I’ve revamped it and reworked it? Isn’t that the very thing I need to polish my pieces for possible publication?

YOU BET IT IS!!! ‘Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.’

Praise the Lord!
nettie

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Now before you think this is our annual Christmas letter, it’s not. I’m actually writing to ask if you've noticed anything different when you’ve gone shopping at some of the national retailers. Well I have. They are using MERRY CHRISTMAS instead of Happy Holidays this year.

About a week ago when R. & I walked into Sears, I saw their holiday greeting. In big, bold letters the sign read “Merry Christmas.” I almost shouted out a thank you, but figured the other shoppers might think I’m a crazy person (no comment from those who know me-HA!). Then a few days later I noticed J.C. Penney’s was using Merry Christmas too. WOW!! But the biggest surprise of all came when I received Target’s catalog in the mail. I popped open the ornament on the front cover and read MERRY CHRISTMAS.

People, what is going on???? Have the national retailers finally heard our cries? I don’t know and really don't care, but I do appreciate whatever they are doing. And I plan on telling each and every one of them how much I do. Hey, I've got an idea. Why don't we all thank them, and while we're at it, let's wish them a Merry Christmas, too.

nettie

MY FORMULA FOR SUCCESS

Yes, I’ve returned from the ACFW Conference. For those of you not in the know, the initials stand for American Christian Fiction Writers. I’m happy to report Murphy stayed home this time, but Elvis did show up (I’ll cover that topic later).

In some writer’s eyes, my conference wasn’t much of a success. The reason: I didn’t have any meetings with publishers, editors, or agents. I didn’t pitch my book (well there was the one time at the lunch table) I didn’t follow an editor into an elevator and give them my 3 minute synopsis. But I DID have a blast hanging out with all of my writer friends, and making new ones. I DID learn valuable techniques to help my writing. And I DID, for the first time in a long time, feel I fit in. I truly felt the love and acceptance of my fellow writers. Those three things spelled SUCCESS for me.

Now to the Elvis sighting:

He showed up(not literally). Elvis made his appearance when someone asked me my most embarrassing moment. Remember in my last blog, I told you I’d tell you the now infamous story. Here it is:

Hubby and I had the privilege of seeing a display of the Shroud of Turin. It wasn’t the actual burial cloth supposedly worn by Jesus, but the traveling documentary moved me, nonetheless. We read all the paperwork stating the validity of the Shroud, and I went away a believer that the Lord actually wore the grave clothes in the colored pictures.

Later that evening, R and I went over to our neighbors to play cards. We told them all about our interesting day. Near the end of our conversation about it, I exclaimed in a loud voice, “Yes, Elvis lay there wrapped in the shroud.”

The moment the words left my lips, I knew the silence beside me meant only one thing. I had truly said Elvis, not Jesus. What is the matter with me? I looked over at my hubby and Ellie and Jane. Their stunned expressions spoke volumes. Finally Ellie cleared his throat and stated, “Well, he is a king, too.”

So, now you know my most embarrassing moment – what’s some of yours? I’d love to hear them.

nettie

Three, two, one...

Three, two, one – ready or not – Dallas, here I come!!!

The reason I’m making the 3 ½ hour trek from Houston to the Big D is ‘cause I’m off to another writer’s conference. I pray this one turns out a little more successful than the one I went to in Colorado last year. Repeat after me – Murphy’s Law.

For those of you who might not be familiar with Mr. Murphy running rampid in their lives, let me fill you in on how he works. Oh, and to add a little flavor and make it a little more fun, I’m going to use a trick that Letterman uses – I’m going to give you Nettie’s Top 5 List.

How you know Murphy’s Law is present at a writer’s conference:

#5: You go to your first appointment with a publisher (which you signed up for beforehand) and give your spiel, only to be stopped after 5 minutes when the young girls (could have been your daughter) tells you their publishing house doesn’t take devotionals. You wonder why she didn’t stop you after 30 seconds. She must have known she didn’t take them then, too.

#4: Between classes, you go to the auditorium to familiarize yourself to where you’re meeting with an agent later in the day. You ask an official looking person with a badge on a question. Their response, “You need to get to your next class.” (Well, I hope you’re having a good day, too!!!)

#3: You’re sitting at one of the round table eating breakfast. You, and the others at the table, talk and laugh about a variety of subjects, but never does anyone mention who you’re sharing the meal with. Since you’re one to always entertain the crowd; you mention you’re a HUGE Elvis and Barry Manilow fan. Telling them your most embarrassing moment concerning Elvis (I promise I’ll share it in a later blog). Anyway, at the end of the meal you find out you’ve been sitting with a publisher from Bethany House and another lady, right next to you, is a multi-published author. So much for them wanting anything you’ve ever written.

#2: You and three friends decide to go into town for pizza the second night (what does this have to do with the writer’s conference – not a darn thing, but I know Murphy was responsible). As you’re leaving the YMCA grounds, one of the ladies sees a wolf, or two, or three (how many make a pack?). You yourself have never been up and personal with a wolf in all your years in Colorado, but you feel certain you are all safe behind the closed doors of the rented Ford. But your friend is beginning to hyperventilate and just stares out the rear window. She told you she was making sure they weren’t following us into town (JAT, I love ya, and you know who you are-HA!).

Drum roll, please!!!! The #1 reason is:

#1: You go back to the auditorium to meet with the agent. Your eyes catch sight of a commotion going on in front of her. You sit down to chat and she tells you what happened. The older man sitting on the floor had fallen down, and because of his advanced age the conference officials were afraid to move him. He sat there while you tried to talk to the agent. In the 5 minutes you spent with her, you only got to share a little bit about yourself. Even that, she didn’t seem interested in. Your work in progress not the big news of the afternoon. (Hey, maybe I should have sat down next to the older gentleman – might have gotten the agent's attention that way. I guess I’ll never know.)

So, now I’ve signed up for another conference, and boy, I can hardly wait to see what's going to happen. I just hope that Mr. Murphy stays home. I don’t think my writing career could take another dose of him this year.

nettie

When The Nile Runs Red - Part 2

Good morning, everyone. Welcome back for When The Nile Run Red - Part 2 with DiAnn Mills. In today blog she'll answer some questions about how she came to write this fiction novel. She'll share with us her heart for the needs of others less fortunate. I hope her story inspires us to write about what we're passionate about.

DiAnn, what inspired you to write this novel?

I had previously written a nonfiction book about the Lost Boys of Sudan – Lost Boy No More. From that research, I wrote the novel When the Lion Roars, but the story would not let me go.

Through numerous interviews and extensive reading, I grew to love and admire the courageous Sudanese people and was burdened by their incredible needs. I had to bring them back in When the Nile Runs Red.

Why Sudan?

This country went through nearly two decades of civil war strife. In 1983, the northern government launched a holy war against the south. This grew out of the views of the Islamic north against the mostly Christian black African south. The war had three aspects: religion, politics, and oil. The atrocities committed against the southern people are too many to list, but the war was fought in the south through genocide.

How did you conduct your research?

I grabbed my backpack and sun screen and traveled to Juba, Sudan, the southern capital. There I stayed at a Christian compound and met with southern Sudanese from all walks of life: refugees, political leaders, and church leaders. I talked to as many people as I could, snapped pictures, and listened to what was being said.

Regarding your trip to Sudan, what touched you the most?

The incredible faith. I could look into a Sudanese’s eyes and see the pain of persecution and the hope of Jesus. Here, we say we love Jesus while we live in our huge homes, drive our fancy cars, are well-fed, are not hunted down for our faith, or are concerned about medical care. The Sudanese understand that all they have and need is Jesus.

Can you give us a brief description of your characters?

Paul Farid was once a Muslim who actively persecuted the southern people, but now he’s a Christian who flies dangerous missions into war-torn areas to deliver food and medical supplies.

Dr. Larson Kerr Farid risks her life to bring healing to the Sudanese. Just like her husband Paul, her life is often in danger. But there is a problem between her and Paul with no easy solution.

Colonel Ben Alier has been fighting and leading the southern army of Sudan for nearly two decades. Often referred to as a warlord, Ben fights his own demons.

The three are friends, an unlikely friendship forged by their love for Sudan.

How do you build your plots?

Always out of character with two simple words: what-if? John Gardner said to create the best possible characters and allow the worst possible things to happen to them. That says it all. It’s easy to coat our darlings with easy trials and struggles, but the hard stuff, the struggles that define the character are what has to happen. I’m a huge fan of Donald Maass and wouldn’t consider writing a paragraph without using techniques found in his books Writing the Breakout Novel and Writing the Breakout Novel Workbook.

What are you goals for this novel?

To increase awareness about the situation in Sudan and to share my passion for the Sudanese people through a compelling story.

The proceeds for this novel go back to aid the Sudanese.

What do you hope the readers will gain?

To lose themselves in the novel. That’s every writer’s goal. But I also want the reader to sense a call to action and support the Sudanese cause.

What is your next project?

I’m currently writing a romantic suspense series with a working series title of “Behind the Sunglasses”.

Aside from your passion for writing, what else are you doing?

Speaking to groups about the situation in Sudan. Teaching at writer’s conferences. Conducting Fiction Mentoring Clinics. These are small groups who work closely together for three work-filled days to develop their craft.

How can readers learn more about what you are doing?

Check out my website at www.diannmills.com. I have sections about Sudan, and for readers, and writers. Those signing up for my newsletter get to download a chapter of an upcoming release.


DiAnn, thanks for stopping for a visit. It's been a pleasure chatting with you. See ya soon, my friend.

nettie

When The Nile Runs Red - Part 1

As a writer, I'm totally blessed because I'm surrounded by honest-to-goodness published authors who want to share their knowledge and expertise on how they've accomplished this seemingly impossible task. My blog overflowed in August with answers to the burning questions you've always wanted to ask those authors we admire so much.

Well, ladies and gentleman, to start September off with a bang, another of my writer friends is stopping by for a two-day chat. Let me introduce you to her. DiAnn Mills launched her career in 1998 with the publication of her first book. Currently she has over forty books in print and has sold more than a million copies.

DiAnn believes her readers should “Expect an Adventure.” Her desire is to show characters solving real problems of today from a Christian perspective through a compelling story.

Her latest book, When The Nile Runs Red, is set for a September 2007 release date. Here's an excerpt from the back cover:

Paul Farid was once a member of the royal family who openly persecuted any Sudanese who failed to practice Islam. Now he’s a Christian who puts his life on the line to aid the persecuted Sudanese. His wife, Larson, is a doctor committed to giving her life for peace.

Colonel Ben Alier has fought for twenty-one years against the government’s mandates to control the oil, religion, slavery, and politics of Sudan. He neither trusts nor rests any hope in the newly formed government.

Ben’s health deteriorates while Larson finds out she is going to have a baby. Their worlds collide, and as the relational tensions escalate so does the physical danger.

Please click on the link below. It will take you to a promo for When the Nile Runs Red.
http://www.diannmills.com/sudan/WTNRRPromoClip.html

Thanks DiAnn for visiting. I'll see you tomorrow for our interview.

nettie

I'M PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE. . .

I'm pleased to announce to my readers another book I highly recommend. It Gone With The Groom by Janice A. Thompson. In my blog today, she's come to visit and share a snippet about her newly released book. She'll also answer some questions about herself and her writing journey. Janice is a dear friend of mine, and I'm blessed to have her in my life.

So, family and friends, sit back and enjoy getting to know my special friend.

GONE WITH THE GROOM SYNOPSIS:

The best laid plans of brides and men go awry when Annie Peterson’s future son-in law Scott disappears. Have pre-wedding jitters caused Brandi’s fiancé to take flight, or are more sinister forces at work? Annie puts her super-sleuth powers to work, feverishly racing against the wedding day clock to find her daughter’s missing fiancé.

Has Scott been silenced by the big pharmaceutical company for which he works? Perhaps his disappearance is the handiwork of Otis, Scott’s sneaky dad. But then again it could be the shady wedding photographer or even a sideshow of the political campaign of Scott’s mother.

Will Annie solve the mystery and recover the missing groom in time for the couple to say their wedding vows? Find out in Gone with the Groom.


Author Janice A. Thompson lives in the Houston area. In 2004, her two oldest daughters both received proposals within weeks of each other. The weddings came off without a hitch! Janice has since coordinated weddings for friends and is thrilled to incorporate many of her adventures into her novels.

1. What book is coming next?


There will be three more Annie Peterson mysteries after this one: PUSHING UP DAISIES, THE PERFECT MATCH, and CATERING TO DISASTER. They will all be released as part of the new mystery line at Barbour Publishing (Heartsong Presents Mysteries).

2. What book are you working on now?


I just turned in a Heartsong romance titled WHITE AS SNOW – about a young woman who can’t stand football. She lives in the Pittsburgh area, and eventually (of course!) falls in love with a professional football player. I had a lot of fun writing this one. Why, you ask? Because I’m not a football fan! Figure skating, yes! Gymnastics, of course! Football. . .are you kidding? Beyond that, I'm nearing completion on another Heartsong titled OUT OF THE BLUE (a contemporary set in the Amish country). When I finish that one, I wrap up my (first ever!) book for Steeple Hill, titled BOOM TOWN.

3. What book are you reading now?


I just read my friend Kathleen Y'Barbo's awesome book WEDDING BLISS (from Heartsong Presents). She's got an amazing sense of humor and really cracks me up! I also read Allison Pittman's beautifully written second book SPEAK THROUGH THE WIND. When I have free time (usually in the wee hours of the night), I'm reading a wonderful non-fiction book about the life of the Amish (as research).

4. How do you deal with your other obligations (family, church, etc.) when it’s crunch time near deadlines?


This has been a tough year for me. During the writing of GONE WITH THE GROOM, I lost my father to bone marrow cancer. It was an awful time for our family. Then, the week before the book was due, my married daughter (Randi) became very ill during her 33rd week of pregnancy and the baby (Madysen) had to be delivered early. She was only four and a half pounds, but (thank God!) is just fine now. Then, about the time the book went to the edit stage, my sister passed away very suddenly and unexpectedly. As I began marketing the book, one of my best friends suddenly passed away. Then, when I was nearing the end of a ghost-writing project I fell down some stairs and broke my ankle (requiring surgery). It seems like every time a tragedy strikes, I’m on some sort of deadline. I don’t resent that fact, (though at times it’s tough to keep going). I find the writing to be a blessing, particularly in light of the fact that I “need” the humor of light-weight stories like GONE WITH THE GROOM to bring a smile to my face. God always helps me with the obligations/deadlines part. I’m totally dependent on Him for those things. Wouldn’t have it any other way.

5. What’s your favorite worship song, and why?


I change favorite worship songs routinely. Right now I'm enthralled with a song by Hillsongs titled "Mighty to Save." You'll find the lyrics below.

Everyone needs compassion
A love that's never failing
Let mercy fall on me
Everyone needs forgiveness
A kindness of a Savior
The hope of nations

My Savior
He can move the mountains
My God is Mighty to save
He is Mighty to save
Forever
Author of salvation
He rose and conquered the grave
Jesus conquered the grave

So take me as You find me
All my fears and failures
Fill my life again
I give my life to follow
Everything i believe in
Now i surrender

Shine your light and let the whole world see
We're singing for the glory of the risen King...Jesus

Trust me when I say that it is possible for God to move the mountains. I've watched Him do it time and time again.

6. What do you crave (beverage or food) when you have writer’s stress?


I am addicted to Diet Dr. Pepper. And when I’m really needing a treat, I turn to Earl Grey tea (like Annie Peterson) or even Chai Latte. When all else fails, I reach for a piece of cheesecake.


7. Where did you birth the idea for this book (and the series)? When? How did it come about?

Did any of the experiences in the story happen to you personally?
I have four daughters in their 20’s. Two of them got married in 2004 within four and a half months of each other. It was a stressful time, but I always knew I’d eventually be able to use the information in a story. Just about the time I thought I could rest, my third daughter got engaged. Her wedding just took place six weeks ago. Three down, one to go! As for how I decided to turn these books into mysteries (instead of traditional romances)… I asked myself the question, “What would you do if you had to pay for two weddings and didn’t have the money to do so?” Out of that, the first book (THE WEDDING CAPER) was born. After that, I got to thinking, “What would you do if the groom disappeared just before the wedding?) Out of that, GONE WITH THE GROOM was born. And so on, and so forth.


8. If your book was turned into a movie, who would play the main characters?

Wow. Never thought about that before. Who would play Annie Peterson? If she were still alive, I might pick someone funny like Madeline Kahn. If she were younger, maybe Carol Burnett? Diane Keaton might work, (though, Annie is really only turning 50, so even Diane might be a bit too old). As for the twin daughters, I think it would be fun to have someone like Jennifer Garner play dual roles. Or, hey…what about the Olsen twins? They could split the workload, and they’re about the right age. As for the husband (Warren) I wouldn’t want to go for anyone terribly famous, because I wouldn’t want him to outshine Annie. For Sheila? Someone quirky like Bette Midler or even Kathy Bates would do – in flamboyant colors, of course.


9. Which one of your characters is most like you, and why do you say that?

I’m a lot like Annie Peterson, truth be told. I find myself “in over my head” a lot, and I tend to think I can solve most any problem. She’s going through some empty nest issues, and I can certainly relate to that. Like Annie I also find myself turning to God for the real answers. I’d like to say I’m funny like Sheila, but I patterned that character after my best friend Kay, who always keeps me laughing. Kay is always coming up with funny sayings, and all-the-more, now that she knows I need material for Sheila to use.


10. What do you want your readers to know about you?

I love God with my whole heart, and no matter what troubles come my way, (no matter what mysteries I need to solve) I will never ever give up on my faith. Never. I will keep on keeping on, no matter what!

Janice A. Thompson
"Love, Laughter, and Happily Ever Afters"
www.janiceathompson.com

NOW AVAILABLE:
Gone with the Groom (Barbour Publishing)
Sugar and Grits (Barbour Publishing)


Thank you, Janice, for stopping by. I hope everyone enjoyed getting know you. It's a joy to spend time with you, and I love ya, girlfriend.

nettie

Never Too Old

I attended a funeral of a friend today. Normally sadness fills the faces of the one's paying respect, but today I noticed radiant smiles. I knew each were remembering how the 93 year old man brightened their day by just wheeling in on his little red cart. The big grin on Henry's face told us he was glad to see us.

Henry lived every day to its fullest. I don't believe he wasted a second God gave him. He liked to share some of his experiences with us in his writer's groups. We loved hearing each and every story he wrote. Listening to him read, and then witnessing his tears as they trickled down his cheeks, put my troubles into perspective. I no longer felt sorry for myself.

Henry lived his life as a true reflection of the Lord. Never shy in his sharing of his beliefs with others. Honestly, I don't think he cared if he might not be "politically" correct. His philosophy - he had a message and he was going to proclaim it.

Henry lived and I'm glad I could call him my friend. Boy, am I going to miss him, but my life's forever changed because I knew him.

nettie

PS: You're never too old - start living today!!!!!

A SPECIAL TREAT

Today my blog is featuring a very SPECIAL guest. Allison Bottke has stopped by for a chat while she's on her international blog tour. Most of you know her from her God Allows U-Turns anthologies, but Allison is also published as a fiction author now. I've just finished her 2nd book, "One Little Secret." Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. The minute I finished her 2nd book, I ran out and bought her 1st one, "A Stitch In Time." Again, I'm having trouble getting anything else done. I want to keep reading her book.

But this blog isn't about me today - it's about Allison. She going to answer some questions concerning her writing life and how she's done it and reached the goal all of us writers want - PUBLISHDOM. Now, all my writer friends, get your pens ready. You'll want to take notes.

Allison, what is one piece of advice can you give a new (and not-so-new) writer to keep them writing day after day?

I know it sounds so incredibly droll and simple, but never give up and don’t take “no” for an answer! I kept at it and kept at it and kept at it. Recrafting my proposals and rewriting my first book. I got my start in non-fiction, but always in the back of my mind was the dream of one day writing fiction. However, more important would be to not compare yourself to another writer. There is always going to be someone better, someone smarter, someone more literary, someone more photogenic on the back of their book, and yada, yada, yada. But there is only ever going to be one you!

Janetta, some of your readers may know this about me, but for those who don’t, the fact I’ve been published at all boggles my mind. I’m a high school drop out with a ninth grade education and a GED. I quit school after the 9th grade to run away from home and get married. I was going to live happily ever after in my fairy tale dream. But that’s NOT what happened.

That said, writing is not about formal education, or who you know, or how long you’ve been at it. It’s about perseverance and risk and belief in yourself—and knowing that inevitably, God will make a way where there seems to be no way.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received, which kept you writing?

Never give up. If writing is truly my passion—then I must persevere through whatever comes my way.

If someone told you tomorrow you had to give up writing, could you?

Hmmmm, I guess it would depend on who was doing the asking and why. If I felt deep in my heart and soul that my husband or children were suffering—or if my own health depended on it—then yes, I could give it up—to save our lives. However, a question like that is tough, because so much depends on the circumstances.

If not, why?

If I’ve learned anything it’s to never say never. Although writing has been my passion since I was old enough to hold a pencil, and I do feel it’s the gift God has blessed me with to communicate, I would never say that I couldn’t give it up. I sure wouldn’t want to if I had the choice, but we just never know what may happen in life, do we?

How would you convince the person who is asking you to quit to let you continue writing?

To “let me?” I’m an adult, and therefore able to make my own decisions—other than God, no one has to “let me” do anything. Therefore, if someone in my life is insisting I give up my passion, or giving me an ultimatum, I’m afraid there is a dynamic involved in the relationship that is far more critical than my writing. The issue wouldn’t be to “convince” them, the issue would be to get to the bottom of what is causing the ultimatum in the first place.

What was the WORST critique/rejection you've ever received?

I can’t recall any—now don’t get me wrong—that’s not to say I have not been criticized, I know that I have—many times. However, I choose not to let negative comments linger in my mind for too long. Negativity serves no purpose in helping me to reach my goals or to achieve my dreams. Therefore, I made the choice a long time ago to NOT allow negativity to control me or my thought world. My mom instilled in me an ability to always see the glass as half full and not half empty and “half empty thoughts” serve no purpose in my world.

Who has mentored you in your writing career?

I have been incredibly blessed. Although I’m not sure I would call all of my “teachers” mentors, per say, I have studied under many of today’s bestselling CBA authors. I began attending writer’s conferences as an instructor, and while there I was able to take classes as a student with some amazing novelists who generously shared their craft in workshop sessions. I soaked up everything I could about how to write fiction—taking notes—buying tapes—listening over and over again to teachers like Angela Hunt, Gayle Roper, Brandilyn Collins, James Scott Bell, Jack Cavanaugh, Lauraine Snelling, and Tracie Peterson. It was after taking a 3-day long intensive workshop with Tracie Peterson that I was able to fine-tune my work-in-progress and submit it with a proposal to Bethany House. The rest, as they say, is history. Bethany House signed me to write two novels and the whirlwind began.

Do you belong to a specific writer's group?

I do not. But I’m moving to the Dallas area of Texas at the end of this month and I’ve already connected with some writers in the area and hopefully I’ll join a group this fall.

I know you speak at conferences, but do you still attend them? If you do, which ones?

Alas, my schedule does not allow me to attend conferences outside of the ones at which I speak and teach. However, one of the amazing perks of speaking or teaching at writer’s conferences is the ability to attend classes during your available times. That is how I was able to take so many fiction writing classes from the masters over the years. I’ve particularly enjoyed the Jerry Jenkins Writing for the Soul Conference, the Glorietta Christian Writers Conference, the Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference, The Colorado Christian Writer’s Conference, The Seattle Pacific Writers Conference, the Blue Ridge Christian Writers Conference and the Write to Publish Conference in Wheaton, Illinois. But there are countless writers’ conferences being held all over this great country.

Is goal setting important to your writing?

Absolutely! In fact, I teach a class on Strategic Planning for your writing career, and setting definitive goals is vital in this business. Also, thinking about our writing career as a “business” is also vital. I have a series of teaching teleseminars available as MP3 downloads on my web site called: CLEAN UP YOUR ACT. This is a 4-part series that includes strategic planning and developing goals and visions for where we want to take our career. Your readers can find out more about those audio downloads and handouts here: http://www.boomerbabesrock.com/eventsteleseminars.html


What does a typical writing day look like for you? Are you a morning person, or do you burn the midnight oil?

Funny, the older I get the earlier I go to bed at night. But on the flip side is that I’m now waking up at 4:30 or 5:00 AM every morning. That said, I like to start working very early in the day when my mind is fresh and alert. I will occasionally burn the midnight oil during tense times of deadlines, but I try to shut off my computer when my husband gets home from work in the evening. He’s an entrepreneur and works long hours, he’s a work-a-holic like me, and so his schedule isn’t exactly a 9 to 5 kind of thing.


Allison, you've published numerous God Allows U Turns compilations, but what did you do to celebrate the release of your FIRST novel, "A Stitch in Time"?

I know it’s frivolous, but I bought a Mary Frances designer handbag embellished with purses and shoes and accessories. It looks like “Dee,” and it makes me smile and thank God for the ability to be working in this crazy business of writing and publishing every time I use it.

FINAL QUESTION?

Is there anything you’d like to share with my readers that I haven’t asked you about?

I encourage your readers to tell me what they think about One Little Secret. I really do want to hear reader feedback. I’m working on my next novel to release in summer of 2009 and I take to heart reader comments. They can reach me here: AB@AllisonBottke.com and please, I’d love to invite everyone to participate in the Hollywood Casting Call Contest where a lucky winner can win an all expense paid trip to Hollywood! Visit my web site and select the actors and actresses you think would make the best lead characters in One Little Secret! Check it out here: http://www.boomerbabesrock.com/bookcontests.html

And …we have a monthly newsletter that we call a “Dream-Zine,” I’d love to invite your readers to subscribe: http://www.boomerbabesrock.com/dreamzine.html

We also have a co-authored blog with six best selling authors blogging each and every day – BOOMER BABES WITH BRILLIANT DREAMS: http://www.boomerbabesrock.com/blog/

However, more important than that is my final word of the day…and that is for your readers to take the risk and reach for their dreams! God has placed a desire in your heart—He has given you special gifts—and he wants you to use them. No matter how old we are—there is still time to discover God’s purpose for our life—and to make the choices that will change the story of our life.

Thank you, Allison, for stopping by my blog today. May God bless you on your writing journey. Please continue penning the words the Lord gives you so readers like myself can devour them.

nettie

Technology Is Not My Middle Name

How do I know that technology isn't my middle name? Well, first of all, my birth certificate tells me my middle name is Marie. Oh, that was my first clue, but actually the real reason I know it isn't the "t" word - I just fought for 20 minutes to get to the main screen so I could actually POST this new blog. Every time I try to write on this wonderful, new invention I have the same trouble.

But, obviously I got it accomplished, but it wasn't easy. When I made my first attempt to get on this time (with the password I'm a 100% sure is correct), it tells me it's incorrect. I try it again, and again, and again. By the time I've tried it this many times, I'm wondering why they don't bypass the formalities and just let me on. You see, I've written them so many times asking for my password, they know me by name. That's a joke, but for someone who is not computer savvy, sometimes simple things for some are almost impossible to me.

Another reason I know technology isn't my middle name comes when someone IS trying to explain to me how to do something new on my laptop. Oh my, there are no words to describe the sinking feeling I experience at that moment. And they can't miss the deer-in-the-headlight look I give them. My eye glaze over after the first few words they utter trying to get me to understand.

But I don't lose heart, I just thank the Lord for the gifts and talents He's given me. They fit me perfectly. I might never figure out how to get into this blog the first time around, but I have enough tenacity to finally accomplish it the fifth or sixth time. I'll not let a little problem with technology stand in my way. I've got a blogging audience to entertain.

Now was that http, or was it html? HELP!

nettie