tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42160875850235997692024-03-18T19:08:20.636-04:00The Write EditingThe Place Writers Go for Inspiration, Encouragement, and Editing TipsAndrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.comBlogger442125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-64856962894633580262024-03-11T13:36:00.000-04:002024-03-11T13:36:09.936-04:00Writers Must Write, Even When it Hurts<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">By Tammy Karasek<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig7Jr4GmSTjbNwJv5YhuPyYeqF0uKk6EIjtqCx30Zkqo5tqls7XwXNn16aURS5TFutqeMpjIRomyeCjmpLE0LDhqHLspkwkgIIj_CSKZSS4vNTykscpmFT0JozuozhOAHcBhaUgMDgzM6sOdOm0EZL1LU5faQRHUXTUwYKUPpcYs5kcL9U6H7gRFr5Bw/s420/Sad%20woman%20-%20Photo%20by%20Dev%20Asangbam%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig7Jr4GmSTjbNwJv5YhuPyYeqF0uKk6EIjtqCx30Zkqo5tqls7XwXNn16aURS5TFutqeMpjIRomyeCjmpLE0LDhqHLspkwkgIIj_CSKZSS4vNTykscpmFT0JozuozhOAHcBhaUgMDgzM6sOdOm0EZL1LU5faQRHUXTUwYKUPpcYs5kcL9U6H7gRFr5Bw/s320/Sad%20woman%20-%20Photo%20by%20Dev%20Asangbam%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">Writers are often
seen tapping on keys or writing in journals in all sorts of corners at coffee
shops, park benches, and the like. I’m often one of them, and if you’re reading
this post, I’m probably not wrong when I think you are one of them as well.<br /> <o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve spent time
tucked into a corner writing on a current fiction story or two that beg for
attention. I tune out the <i>noise</i> of the establishment and work away. My
non-writing husband often asks why I can crank out words there, but can’t do
the same thing at home. It blows his mind how noisy a coffee shop is and can’t
understand how I can ignore those noises. I laugh and tell him it’s because
they aren’t <i>my</i> noises. Yes, I sometimes notice them, but I don’t have to
jump up and take care of them. It doesn’t belong to me, not my problem. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In a recent
discussion about this, he admits it still boggles his mind about tuning out
those surroundings and their odd sounds. Then I said something to him that
actually made both of us stop talking and look at each other. “Those noises at
a tea or coffee shop don’t bother me and keep me from working because they make
no difference to me what they are or if someone is taking care of them. What
does bother me and stalls my writing are the hurtful noises that are in my head.
Those I can’t ignore.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I’d never said
that out loud to anyone, but there it was, out into the air for one person
sitting across from me to hear. And now I needed to own it and share how I’m
working on that issue. I’d like to share the same with you today, and I hope I
offer you help if you also struggle with this. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Five things to
help me write when there are hurtful noises blocking my writing:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;"></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">When
I’m staring at that blinking cursor and nary a word will come to me no matter
how hard I try, I pray for the Lord to show me what I’m subconsciously thinking
about. Sometimes I know, often I’m trying hard to forget, but the forgetting
isn’t working.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Once
I identify the brain-blocker, I ask myself why it’s still bothering me. Was it
hurtful words a person didn’t own? A time when my reputation was slandered and I
was left with many believing the storyteller and wrongfully judging me? Another
rejection of some kind? Or even being deceived by a family member or friend?</span></span> </li><li><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now
that I’ve pinpointed the hurt and I’ve asked myself the important question of
why it’s still hanging on, I move on to a new-for-me productive action to use this
hurt for something good.</span></span> </li><li><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I
have a Word document folder I’ve entitled <i>Words Written While it Still Hurts</i>.
Each time I write for this folder, I create a new document and title the piece
with exactly what was hurting and hanging onto my mind.</span></span> </li><li><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">And
then I write without holding back any thoughts. These words will not be shared
with anyone. I may never look at them again. Or I might. Yes, this may be what
you may write in a journal or have always done, but I type way faster than I
write, and this allows me to unload a lot of thoughts and for sure a whole lot
faster. </span></span></li></ol><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">This has helped me
process some hurts as you might imagine. But what I never expected to happen is
how I have used this in my writing. Recently, as I worked on a scene in my current
story, I found I couldn’t write a scene where the main character was mad at one
of the other characters. Every time I wrote the scene, then read it out loud to
myself, I didn’t <i>feel </i>any tension or anger from the character. Try as I
could, I always ended up making the dialogue seem forced or fake. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Then I remembered
my little tool in Word where I’d written different situations while the
feelings were fresh. I scrolled down the titles and found one talking about
being totally ticked off. Bingo! Not a proud moment, but truthful and real. I
read through the piece and remembered how mad I had felt from that situation
when it happened. I was then able to go back to my scene and put some emotions
into it that were raw and authentic for the reader to feel how upset the main
character was. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">While I’m not at
all suggesting you keep a log of hurts if this could be strong triggers for
you, what I’m trying to offer is you writing a sentence or two first of what
happened as your reference point. Then write all those feelings still taking up
rent in your mind. Case in point—the anger one above was anger at myself for
allowing someone to take advantage of me. Again. I have forgiven them. We’ve
made peace, but I was still mad at myself and didn’t realize it. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Next time you find
yourself in a writing pause of deep-down feelings hindering your work, might I
suggest you sit down and write about those feelings. It could be sadness from
loss, rejection from another publisher, hurtful words from a friend, or even a
time when you’re so happy you could burst. Stop and either start a file in Word
on your computer or a handwritten journal and capture the full feelings. You
never know when it can become your personal resource for creating richer
scenes. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">How about you? Do
you have something you pull from to aid you in sharing good, nitty-gritty
feelings in your writing?</span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@devasangbam?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Dev Asangbam</a><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/woman-in-brown-sweater-covering-her-face-with-her-hand-_sh9vkVbVgo?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><a name="_Hlk151382497"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></a></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgstTyi4ZDHUoX6fquNrq-x_hZIXMeDgJhBlAMg1q1DCJDXuRMNvAZ0EdteMjX09uNG73Bd9fWzLCuyS8uwkb-XZzrdiewvmy9CjR0vsdyr6AMWbCiXcbYFTHS2DW6NZDb7bcoDHZrMr7FHPvgn5vRB1YgXm8TcMvCFn1gz7URfgXvnEcV5I4MnOxIxTA/s269/Tammy%20Karasek.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="269" data-original-width="240" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgstTyi4ZDHUoX6fquNrq-x_hZIXMeDgJhBlAMg1q1DCJDXuRMNvAZ0EdteMjX09uNG73Bd9fWzLCuyS8uwkb-XZzrdiewvmy9CjR0vsdyr6AMWbCiXcbYFTHS2DW6NZDb7bcoDHZrMr7FHPvgn5vRB1YgXm8TcMvCFn1gz7URfgXvnEcV5I4MnOxIxTA/s1600/Tammy%20Karasek.jpeg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">Tammy Karasek uses humor and wit to bring joy
and hope to every aspect in life. Her past, filled with bullying and criticism
from family, drives her passion to encourage and inspire others and show them<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; padding: 0in;"> <i>The Reason </i></span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">to smile. She’s gone from down and defeated to living a</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; padding: 0in;"> “</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; padding: 0in;">Tickled Pink” </span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">life as she believes there’s always a giggle
wanting to come out!<br /> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A writer of romantic suspense—with a splash
of sass—her debut book, <i>Launch That Book</i>, released in 2023. She’s
published in a Divine Moments Compilation Book—<i>Cool-inary Moments</i>. She’s
also a writing team member for The Write Conversation Blog, Novel Academy, Blue
Ridge Conference Blog, The Write Editing, and more.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;">Known as The Launch Team Geek, Tammy helps
authors launch their books. You’ll also find her as a Virtual Assistant for
several best-selling authors, the Social Media Manager for the Blue Ridge
Mountains Christian Writers Conference, Founding President and current
Vice-President of ACFW Upstate SC</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">,
and </span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;">Founding President of Word Weavers Upstate
SC. <span style="color: #3a3f4f;">Connect with Tammy at<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span><a href="https://tammykarasek.com/"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;">https://www.tammykarasek.com</span></span></a><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="color: #3a3f4f; font-family: "Cambria",serif;">.</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk151382497;"></span>
</span><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><p></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-52089661705015794622024-03-04T15:31:00.000-05:002024-03-04T15:31:20.820-05:00Finding Your Writer’s Voice<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">By Andrea Merrell<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">As writers, sometimes our greatest struggle is finding our
<i>voice</i>, our own unique style of writing. Our voice consists of many elements
including:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1XdlIiKhjGiHmyb5fyPorP0Mk8od9wBlQsw7wKoPIp0tNQXYn8nPozyVfxBLierdSydrfRbFhVLfLOpIG2QvnIyR4r-kx9GQ5e_5Mi2LjMkiyBNGPmuRGPdv5HTMO9X6Fi-8x8t_0O_xMHO7c0eiT5NSYyhs-3Jp-keFT74s02RaS26fY-7jJ9F8sbQ/s511/Writing%20-%20Photo%20by%20Thought%20Catalog%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="343" data-original-width="511" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1XdlIiKhjGiHmyb5fyPorP0Mk8od9wBlQsw7wKoPIp0tNQXYn8nPozyVfxBLierdSydrfRbFhVLfLOpIG2QvnIyR4r-kx9GQ5e_5Mi2LjMkiyBNGPmuRGPdv5HTMO9X6Fi-8x8t_0O_xMHO7c0eiT5NSYyhs-3Jp-keFT74s02RaS26fY-7jJ9F8sbQ/s320/Writing%20-%20Photo%20by%20Thought%20Catalog%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">How we turn a phrase. <br /></span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Our sense of humor.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">How we think.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">How we see the world.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">How we relate to others.</span></span></li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">According to one source:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Voice can be a combination of
your writing tone, sentence structure, patterns, and perspective. It is a stamp
on your writing that makes your work personal and recognizable, so much so that
your audience can identify a sample of writing as yours without ever seeing
your name.*<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Can you relate? Do you have a favorite author whose words you
can easily recognize? I have many writer friends who have a special and unique
gift. One writes with heart. Her words are woven together like a beautiful
tapestry and make you feel as if you’ve just had a taste of heaven. Another
writes with a quirky sense of humor, making you feel as if all is right with the world. Another captures the essence of the Appalachian culture
and flawlessly draws the reader in. And yet another presents Southern fiction
is such a way that you feel deeply immersed in the story. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Two of the biggest hindrances to finding our voice are:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Trying to emulate others (if I could only write like …).</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Trying to heed the advice of too many and please everyone
else. Advice and encouragement are important, but we should never allow someone
to change our voice and have us say things in a way we never would.</span></span></li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Whenever I write—and whatever I write—I strive to be transparent.
To be real. To make my words relevant and relatable, always flavored with a
dash of humor.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have you found your voice or are you still searching? The best
advice is to be yourself. Be inspired by others, but develop your own style.
Don’t ever lose your uniqueness by trying to be something or someone you’re
not.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@thoughtcatalog?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Thought Catalog</a><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/person-holding-ballpoint-pen-writing-on-notebook-505eectW54k?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">*Quote by Alexa Martin: <i>The Importance of Discovering Your
Voice as a Writer.</i> Penguinrandomhouse.com. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-39453844434604387612024-02-19T14:42:00.000-05:002024-02-19T14:42:54.998-05:00Put Your Best Foot Forward<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">By Cindy K. Sproles<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWD_vMg4XxQXI-AVmvUZkv-mWJiHGpWXYawCPHHPGTfslGaTxtVpV_Uzh7c3S3nrdrxnmmSIsIlBfnMChJW7bOoxrZ7Q4W_NbaTrlgp1x3cNf8zy24tzPwBtK9qUEL3_4pewk2nUsOss8EbG4u_25Xp_sphbEJydFv-MFQoRyAPXJwrZE4bC606wdMXw/s311/Foot%20-%20Photo%20by%20Ricardo%20Gomez%20Angel%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="302" data-original-width="311" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWD_vMg4XxQXI-AVmvUZkv-mWJiHGpWXYawCPHHPGTfslGaTxtVpV_Uzh7c3S3nrdrxnmmSIsIlBfnMChJW7bOoxrZ7Q4W_NbaTrlgp1x3cNf8zy24tzPwBtK9qUEL3_4pewk2nUsOss8EbG4u_25Xp_sphbEJydFv-MFQoRyAPXJwrZE4bC606wdMXw/s1600/Foot%20-%20Photo%20by%20Ricardo%20Gomez%20Angel%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="311" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">It’s your last chance. Have you crossed all the <i>T</i>s and dotted
all the <i>I</i>s?<br /> <o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hitting the send button on a manuscript is both a relief and a
frightening experience. Every word must be right. Every comma is placed
perfectly. All the spelling is correct. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Unfortunately, this seems to the be step writers trip over by
either physical or mental exhaustion. You’ve worked hard on that manuscript.
Read it a minimum of twenty times and passed it through your critique partners.
What could be wrong? Well, it’s the little things. Below, you will see the most
common mistakes to search out before you hit the send button.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">Is Your name is on the work?</span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"> – You’d
be surprised at the manuscripts editors receive without this valuable
information. Name, email address, phone number – vital information.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">Is the publisher, agent, or editor’s name spelled
correctly?</span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"> – Just a personal note here: My last name is spelled
S-P-R-O-L-E-S. Not Sprawles or Sprolez, or worse, Spritz. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">Did you follow the guidelines</span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">? – It’s
vital that every guideline is followed when you submit work. Also, you’ll find
every publisher or agent is different. Pay attention to details. This can make
or break your submission.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">Does the publisher, agent, or editor you are
addressing work in your genre?</span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"> – Often, we assume the
professionals we speak to at a conference work in our genre. Do your homework.
Ensure you submit to an editor or agent that reads, sells, or publishes the
genre you write. Otherwise, it’s like pouring water down a drain. The work will
never be seen.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">Did you catch the typos</span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"> – Check
and recheck for typos. Editors can look over a slip occasionally, but when you
make repeated errors, it tells them you are not ready for publication. I’d like
to exclude autocorrect in texts here. There are times when autocorrect changes
text <i>after</i> you hit send. If you notice an autocorrect boo-boo, resend a
one-line note stating you noticed autocorrect changed your work after it was sent.
Most folks understand this, and I can’t say there is an industry rule on this
yet. If it were up to me, I’d shoot autocorrect. </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji", sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">😊</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"> Simply try to read before you click send.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">Check your attitude at the door</span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"> – Be
gracious and express your appreciation for the time editors, agents, and
publishers give you. Don’t assume your work is the best they’ve seen. Make it
the best.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">Be mindful of protocol</span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"> –
Understand your work is not the only work professionals are looking at. After a
spring and summer of travel, editors, agents, and publishers will have acquired
double digits in manuscripts. It takes time to read through. Follow the
protocols on their sites to know when it’s appropriate to contact them.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">Follow the chain of command</span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"> –Once
you land a contract, follow the protocol and the hierarchy. Work with your
editor, allow your agent to intervene on your behalf if there is an issue, and <u>do
not email or call the publisher</u>. That is not your job. Publishers are at
the top of the chain and extremely busy. If you contact them over something
like a book cover you don’t like, they will ask you if you contacted your agent
or if you talked to the designers who sent you the cover to review. It’s easy
to get caught up in the excitement of publication, but it’s important to
remember that yours is not the only work in the pipeline, and chances are, the
publisher won’t know where your work is in the process. Stick with your editor
and agent, and only in desperate times should you contact the publisher. The
best advice here is don’t burn bridges.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember, editors and publishers are your friends. They are
not in the business of trying to make you fail. They’ve invested a good sum of
money into publishing your book. Don’t come across as an entitled author or be
demanding and pushy. Once again, don’t burn bridges. Your attitude and
willingness to work and play well with your publishing team play a big part in
whether a publisher is willing to offer you another contract.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Publishing is a long, tedious process, and learning to work
through that process is vital to your career. My personal rule of thumb reverts
back to the golden rule: Treat others the way you’d like them to treat you.
It’s a good policy. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now, put your best writing foot forward and move ahead.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztzbIlQeggUDqo4JEkW5ibYtO8dCPnFZDbuek8t7jQBhixqc3jzKf5xPxNf-ssw147Qfuv4zF4kdciqvGluBAe8wh0kN3EzTFhmG33HKDc5mwljFgLfEYNtcr5G7BZxxt930a4G0aIxon5th354bKutUOjx1V5F3A39EtOP2c_oAPszZlSAL1HK5oeA/s375/Cindy%20newest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztzbIlQeggUDqo4JEkW5ibYtO8dCPnFZDbuek8t7jQBhixqc3jzKf5xPxNf-ssw147Qfuv4zF4kdciqvGluBAe8wh0kN3EzTFhmG33HKDc5mwljFgLfEYNtcr5G7BZxxt930a4G0aIxon5th354bKutUOjx1V5F3A39EtOP2c_oAPszZlSAL1HK5oeA/s320/Cindy%20newest.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cindy
K. Sproles is proud of her Appalachian Mountain heritage and loves to share it
with others. She is an author, speaker, and conference teacher, teaching
across the country. Cindy is the co-founder of Christian Devotions Ministries,
and she has served as a managing editor for two publishing houses. Cindy is the
director of the Asheville Christian Writers Conference, held each February at
the Cove, Asheville, NC. She is married and has four adult sons and two grands. <br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@rgaleriacom?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Ricardo Gomez Angel</a><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/person-in-black-pants-and-white-sneakers-_7favoo7jy8?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-63476907226490247532024-02-12T18:23:00.000-05:002024-02-12T18:23:14.214-05:00What’s on Your Bookshelf?<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">By Marilyn Nutter<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRMXcnz4FFBCbuRv9YDCc7_MAbC5DbEM1jNh4kbI20-eB31qAdG5vfgXU5Jp05WNtEUeaJEEeYtu7QEjkWoMmdD17Q0MX1n-Ll4ik0MNb4UGSxKheAyztBwpoIesqa2ZpsbHQYi1SU5iFgZixDm8SCdJuhJ2CZWT2nw9JzbHxHxYISi_6qLw5zRJfZdA/s450/Bookshelf%20-%20Photo%20by%20Sonja%20Punz%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="301" data-original-width="450" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRMXcnz4FFBCbuRv9YDCc7_MAbC5DbEM1jNh4kbI20-eB31qAdG5vfgXU5Jp05WNtEUeaJEEeYtu7QEjkWoMmdD17Q0MX1n-Ll4ik0MNb4UGSxKheAyztBwpoIesqa2ZpsbHQYi1SU5iFgZixDm8SCdJuhJ2CZWT2nw9JzbHxHxYISi_6qLw5zRJfZdA/s320/Bookshelf%20-%20Photo%20by%20Sonja%20Punz%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">Curled up on my couch
with a good book, the sound of falling</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">objects
startled me. One thump then another. I got up, located the source as my office
down the hall, and found the shelves on my bookcase collapsed. Looking at the
mess, I knew I needed to tackle it. Not on my list. I wanted to get back to
reading but thought I could simply move books and then re-screw the shelves in
place. I reasoned it wouldn’t take much time. A second thought came. <i>This
would <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>be a good time to purge my shelves</i>.
A project I had postponed for years.<br /> <o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">For a book-lover,
letting go of books is like saying goodbye to longtime friends. It’s a long
goodbye with extra time flipping through pages and reading a paragraph or two
or three … or a chapter as we sort. I knew the project wouldn’t take a few
minutes, but potentially hours.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">I got to work, and as I
sorted books, I began a trip down memory lane. One pile of books brought
remembrances of women from Bible studies. My handwriting looked different then.
So did some of the application answers. The books I received as gifts, with
names of friends and the occasion written on the title page, put faces of the
givers front and center. Books varied. Some guided me in early motherhood, ministered
to me in grief, and were used for research and study. Sentences were underlined.
Notes and stars were written in margins. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">I reminisced how the
fiction collection offered me hours of company and enjoyment. I laughed at
outdated covers and flinched at the copyright dates. That long ago, really? <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Some books changed my
life direction. A few represented life seasons—raising children, employment,
tea parties, and hospitality. I noted how my tastes and focus had evolved
through the years. What began as a clean-up project began to look like pages of
my journal.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">What about your
bookshelf? How does it speak to you? Do you see: <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Changes
in interests and experiences? </span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Growth
in your relationship with the Lord?</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hours
of study for projects and classes?</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Catalysts
for conversations that challenged you?</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Fiction
and characters who became good friends, taking you to new places?</span></span></li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">“When I look back, I am
so impressed again with the life-giving power of literature.” ―Maya Angelou.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Books enrich and
enlighten. We can travel without leaving home. They educate, potentially change
our thinking, encourage new pursuits, and challenge our priorities. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Read your bookshelf
today. Look at the spines. Stop and flip through a few pages. You may have a
lump in your throat and flashbacks to a time and place. And when you look at
the time spent perusing, you’ll see hours passed. Then it’s time for a prayer
of gratitude.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">What did you find?<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://bookriot.com/book-lover-quotes/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">https://bookriot.com/book-lover-quotes/</span></a></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@sonnnchen?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Sonja Punz</a><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/a-person-picking-up-a-book-from-a-book-shelf-o2WOOY261yQ?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPCchNVWQvZ2tuhO2CBJQLjwXyHGrRPDfsshlMFi0ey5N69dlGcZtw6oSaya6A4YnOxvoB_L6U8qwe-nMaqdCsCpO8ruXW3YIG07jqttajrNLPI286jVu0thVA3d5UxP_Zz6qQ8oe2EM6vatTmpdJkAel5KmRaNu3jL0OMP9d2PNj75qNfYDbrjA4OQ/s364/Marilyn%20Nutter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="308" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPCchNVWQvZ2tuhO2CBJQLjwXyHGrRPDfsshlMFi0ey5N69dlGcZtw6oSaya6A4YnOxvoB_L6U8qwe-nMaqdCsCpO8ruXW3YIG07jqttajrNLPI286jVu0thVA3d5UxP_Zz6qQ8oe2EM6vatTmpdJkAel5KmRaNu3jL0OMP9d2PNj75qNfYDbrjA4OQ/s320/Marilyn%20Nutter.jpg" width="271" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">Marilyn Nutter, of
Greer, SC is the author of devotional books, a contributor to magazines,
on-line sites, and compilations, and a freelance editor. She is a Bible teacher
and speaker for women’s groups, a grief support facilitator, and serves with
women’s ministries at her church. In her life’s seasons, she has met God’s
faithfulness and clings to Lam. 3:22-23. She is the co-author with April White
of the award winning <b><i>Destination Hope: A Travel Companion When Life Falls
Apart</i></b>. Her book <b><i>Hope for Widows: Reflections of Mourning, Living,
and Change</i></b> will be released in January 2024, by Our Daily Bread
Publishing. Visit www.marilynnutter.com where you will find encouragement to
weave hope and purpose into our life stories.<br /> <o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-31213005877526315472024-02-05T14:23:00.000-05:002024-02-05T14:23:19.436-05:00Know When to Walk Away<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">By Andrea Merrell<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">“I’m stuck,” my friend said. “ I
don’t know what to do.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBX8xpv2myvN3NFWiiiu_hzcrD4jbfcLZJHuNAIZEC0hsLSdJkNvGcfrCjtpYdhY896u_LkgVgX0bF45WBgiP_jjXLH7tfnc3dq22PajxsMDqBTURA9ubLvUHdYxBA2o1nZtqQKdXcUUn052hJA-XVrDRq772DlU1VnpQccEHs-3DT1KxtFFI1T4SRDQ/s380/Walking%20away%20-%20Photo%20by%20Filip%20Mroz%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="380" data-original-width="275" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBX8xpv2myvN3NFWiiiu_hzcrD4jbfcLZJHuNAIZEC0hsLSdJkNvGcfrCjtpYdhY896u_LkgVgX0bF45WBgiP_jjXLH7tfnc3dq22PajxsMDqBTURA9ubLvUHdYxBA2o1nZtqQKdXcUUn052hJA-XVrDRq772DlU1VnpQccEHs-3DT1KxtFFI1T4SRDQ/s320/Walking%20away%20-%20Photo%20by%20Filip%20Mroz%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="232" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">It happens in every area of life.
We hit a roadblock. We can’t keep moving forward, and we can’t seem to find a
way around it.<br /><o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">So what do we do when this
happens in our writing? We’ve worked on a project for months, maybe years, and
we can’t seem to finish. Or maybe there are sections we’re not happy with. For
many it’s that dreaded first page or the initial hook. Then again, life gets in
the way when we least expect it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Getting stuck can mean any number
of things. What’s the solution? Let’s look at three:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Give Up</span></b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">For me, this is the worst
possible answer. When God calls us to write, He places a dream in our heart. A
passion to point others to Him through our words. We should never give up on
that dream. Our words may never make it to the best-seller list, but we never know
whose life they may change.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Seek Help</span></b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">The Bible says, “</span><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; line-height: 150%;">Without good
direction, people lose their way;</span></span><span style="color: black; line-height: 150%;"> <span class="text"><span style="background: white;">the more wise
counsel you follow, the better your chances” (Proverbs 11:14 MSG). Just be sure
not to go overboard with too much advice (trust me, it can be overwhelming),
and choose your advisers carefully. Find a good critique group or buddy who can encourage you, be honest with you, and help you move forward.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: georgia; line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Walk Away</span></b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Sounds like give
up, right? Not at all. Let me give you an example. I play on online game called
Wordscapes where I create words out of a series of letters. It looks much like
a crossword puzzle. Some screens are easy, others not so much. What I’ve found
is that when I get stuck and walk away—even for a few minutes—the screen looks
different when I return. I’ve given my eyes and my mind a break, and now I see
from a new perspective.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Getting stuck
from time to time is a normal problem for most writers. But we should never let
it discourage or derail us. We can benefit greatly from putting that project aside and
concentrating on something else for a while.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">If your novel
needs work, take the time to write a blog post or devotion. Catch up on your
emails. Find a different place to write. Brainstorm with a friend. Take a walk.
But before you do anything, pray. Whatever you do, just take a break. It might
be for a day, a week, or months, but fresh eyes mean a fresh start.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">God is the Master
Creator, and He has placed creativity inside us. Ask Him to stir that
creativity and give you new ideas. You might be amazed at the results.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; line-height: 150%;"><span>What do you do
when you get stuck? We would love to hear your suggestions.</span></span></span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 150%;"><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@mroz?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Filip Mroz</a><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/woman-walking-near-staircase-Mg9xdh3keeo?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></span></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-35713581211745263382024-01-29T15:54:00.000-05:002024-01-29T15:54:19.515-05:00Looking Back Before Moving Forward <p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">By Candyce Carden<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Do you review your writing accomplishments at the end of the
year? I never did. I told myself I couldn’t waste time on the task because I
needed to get on with my writing. Or maybe it was because I’d failed to meet my
ultimate goal of securing a book contract. Examining my writing would surely
leave me as deflated as New Year’s balloons the day after the party.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">How misguided my thinking.</span></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="background: white; color: #001320; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes
his steps</span></i><span style="background: white; color: #001320; font-family: "Cambria",serif;">.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background: white; color: #001320; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">(Proverbs 16:9 ESV)</span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjij8vax9VZWN9uoKmvDI-7wxb9-QhS-9fC2ZrUIlqD3ESAmcw5u3GABhfxqe2XUJ7tMdJIjdK31QcV1KeK9d-fA7RnHf_iALgo2N10X0abh1UFW4MztjzuYMbJKzW-cK4G9h7Z-XVsISXx5Q6FHvG2w4yro7f8w-8pHvlGb6G6VPM0PpEkgBuuTPH_9w/s402/Candyce%20Carden%203.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="331" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjij8vax9VZWN9uoKmvDI-7wxb9-QhS-9fC2ZrUIlqD3ESAmcw5u3GABhfxqe2XUJ7tMdJIjdK31QcV1KeK9d-fA7RnHf_iALgo2N10X0abh1UFW4MztjzuYMbJKzW-cK4G9h7Z-XVsISXx5Q6FHvG2w4yro7f8w-8pHvlGb6G6VPM0PpEkgBuuTPH_9w/s320/Candyce%20Carden%203.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In December 2022, a helpful writing newsletter I subscribe
to, </span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><a href="https://lighthousebiblestudies.com/writers-newsletter/" target="_blank"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Lighthouse Connection</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">,
included a free End-of-the-Year Roundup. The inviting PDF implored me to fill
in its spaces. So, I did.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">The amount of work I published surprised and delighted me, including
guest blog posts, personal blog posts, print, and online publications. I made
progress on some specific goals, such as pitching an article to an intimidating
market. They didn’t respond, but I pitched them!</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Another goal was to submit to a contest. I won one and
placed in another. I didn’t achieve all of my discrete goals. For instance, one
was to query The Quiet Hour and another to apply to write for Crosswalk. Although
nothing came from those efforts, I carried them out. Instead of discouraging
me, simply doing them boosted me.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I urge you to conduct a year-end review of your writing. It’s
not too late, especially with </span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><a href="http://lighthousebiblestudies.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/End_of_the_Year_Roundup_TLC.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">this form to guide you.</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Feel
free to print and use this, but please keep in mind that it is intended for
personal use only.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Moving Forward</span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Not only will completing the review make you proud of what
you accomplished, it will fuel and shape your writing for the new year. Reflecting
on these sections especially—Progress to Celebrate, Goals Unreached, New Goals
for Next Year, and What I’d Do Differently—guided my new goals in the following
year. For instance, in 2023 a goal was to seek an editor’s evaluation on my
book proposal, which I did. A priority goal for 2024 is to rework the proposal
based on the feedback.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">No doubt you have an end-goal in mind for your writing. You probably
also know reaching it takes planning and time. We have to meet several smaller
goals, often baby-steps, that lead to the big one. Look at your most recent accomplishments.
It’s okay to celebrate the victories for a moment. Then get to work. Use the
review to help formulate new goals for 2024, and move forward with confidence.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Writing Resources to Consider</span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Consider subscribing to the quarterly newsletter, </span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><a href="https://lighthousebiblestudies.com/writers-newsletter/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Lighthouse Connection</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">,
authored by Katy Kauffman of Lighthouse Bible Studies. The newsletter offers freebies,
such as the </span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><a href="http://lighthousebiblestudies.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/End_of_the_Year_Roundup_TLC.pdf"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">End-of-the-Year Roundup</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, in
each edition along with writing tips and open writing markets.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">Do you currently do a Year-End Review of your writing progress?
Please share with us what you do.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxpn13MGxa6EdHIXfFKm4SQlJaZyCDrBWiVUX2hw0pP3pfQdOKOtsG2eq3IDemE-iijF8_b4Q4v85EkEJMRzPH7U8TtbdUhQaO0tX0dFq2iZYaoT95NILrWqHiToawPOr7-QFV4xyNbPSgpf59K9hY4IYX4H4j30S7HpvS1QaEgQo3abL4dkPDNXHfQ/s350/Candyce%20Carden%202.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxpn13MGxa6EdHIXfFKm4SQlJaZyCDrBWiVUX2hw0pP3pfQdOKOtsG2eq3IDemE-iijF8_b4Q4v85EkEJMRzPH7U8TtbdUhQaO0tX0dFq2iZYaoT95NILrWqHiToawPOr7-QFV4xyNbPSgpf59K9hY4IYX4H4j30S7HpvS1QaEgQo3abL4dkPDNXHfQ/s320/Candyce%20Carden%202.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="background: white; border: 1pt none windowtext; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;">Candyce Carden
is a writer, educator, and nature lover whose teaching experience ranges from
preschool to college. She’s written for a variety of magazines, devotionals,
and compilations. Currently fine-tuning a devotional with a beach setting,
Candyce and her husband divide time between north Georgia and Destin, Florida. </span><i><span style="font-size: large;">The
answer may not be at the beach, but should we not at least check?<br /></span><o:p></o:p></i></span><p></p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><p></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-78447652341642106652024-01-22T17:44:00.000-05:002024-01-22T17:44:39.946-05:00The Adventurous Life of Writing<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">By
Maureen Miller<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;"><i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;"><i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">God, who got you
started in this spiritual adventure, shares with us the life of his Son and our
Master Jesus. He will never give up on you. Never forget that.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I Corinthians 1:9 MSG<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgBzRCcIgxprxZeL6PxszEkMeHsyUpIo8EwaVtiDljhaKcmSKM2-_xxztuAnPavcWOLIiJ70g1FGzmNH1xrNjYtGFrunUFFL6qR8Ir7j9XhVq48sBFSlQQBBkL2fHqRGR1WgBfKKBap-31cCHGkSJH8q5KFlDfLk1CLatXZcCmxp3Ntf3090CZCUtXQ/s360/Skiing%20-%20Photo%20by%20Eirik%20Uhlen%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgBzRCcIgxprxZeL6PxszEkMeHsyUpIo8EwaVtiDljhaKcmSKM2-_xxztuAnPavcWOLIiJ70g1FGzmNH1xrNjYtGFrunUFFL6qR8Ir7j9XhVq48sBFSlQQBBkL2fHqRGR1WgBfKKBap-31cCHGkSJH8q5KFlDfLk1CLatXZcCmxp3Ntf3090CZCUtXQ/s320/Skiing%20-%20Photo%20by%20Eirik%20Uhlen%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I haven’t
always considered myself adventurous. In fact, I’ve been fearful. Cautious. A
play-it-safe kind of gal. But being married to Bill, I’ve changed. Perhaps his
audacious personality has rubbed off on me, helping me try new things. Take
greater risks.<o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Like snow
skiing—something I attempted as a child, when the possibility of brittle bones
was less. I was never great at the sport, but I could descend an Ohio mountain
with the best of ’em. After all, I’m from the Midwest, so you get my drift.<br /><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">As a new
mom, I didn’t ski much but later was invited to try again. Heading to Colorado,
I’d have the opportunity to enjoy some real powder, not to mention <i>real </i>mountains.
Brave husband offered to teach me because, let’s be honest, I’d never really
learned. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">That was
more than twenty years ago. And while I haven’t broken a bone or careened down
a cliff, I’ve learned some good lessons, several which apply to writing.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Follow a
Guide</span></b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I rarely
ski alone. I’m most comfortable, in fact, following someone better than myself.
Whether Bill or another skilled teacher, I’ve grown over the years through the
guidance of those who know more.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">As a
writer, this also is true. While much of my work is done in solitude, I’m in
daily contact with writers who share my love for words, most days with those
much more knowledgeable than myself. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Following
the advice of mentors and teachers grows us, guiding us on the path toward our
desired end—publication. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">When You
Fall, Get Back Up!<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Honestly,
I’ve experienced many spills while skiing, and though I’ve never been seriously
injured, it doesn’t feel good, nor is getting back up easy. In fact, sometimes
it’s downright difficult, making me wonder if I’m too old for the sport.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">What to
do?<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Rest a
moment.</span></span></li><li><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Rise with
help from your poles.</span></span></li><li><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Move
ahead.</span></span></li></ul><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Such is
the case with writing. We’ve all suffered setbacks. Failures. It hurts, and we
want to give up. <i>Who am I? </i>we wonder. Maybe we feel too old. We’re not,
and there are others willing to remind us. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">So, what
to do?<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Rest. </span></span></li><li><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Rise with
help from your people.</span></span></li><li><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Move
ahead.</span></span></li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">And
remember—we won’t accomplish the mountain if we stop.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy the
Adventure!<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">These
days, the fun usually outweighs fear, in both skiing and writing. Still, do I
ever question myself, tempted to play it safe, avoid the possibility of pain?
Yes, but I’m reminded that <i>Our most faithful Guide, the One who’s always
there to pick us up when we fall or fail, has called us out of our comfort
zones to live with freedom and enjoy the journey.</i></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: x-large; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh, and don’t forget—Jesus, our dearest Friend, will
never give up on us.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">So … onward!</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: x-large; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@uhlen96?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Eirik Uhlen</a><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/2-person-in-white-pants-and-black-snow-ski-blades-standing-on-snow-covered-ground-during-U5YfxhSze8k?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></p><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8nXhUa7VKqPYUJFtsPX_7R7WrjQqyNHNaCaXkXFDLKCcmT7fyO7B6TnnWDxjIQqFUVYE49IvL0GcQtzMbKc9a2mygaiYUoNvM60WJxfypRkJarcl4BFSQ8PHwQNRcu5NMOsTPPJrO7tGjEQzRK-ud9uCTIV9zZLQo086LeScgLvbKStHIdTSJjubn0Q/s300/Maureen%20Miller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="240" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8nXhUa7VKqPYUJFtsPX_7R7WrjQqyNHNaCaXkXFDLKCcmT7fyO7B6TnnWDxjIQqFUVYE49IvL0GcQtzMbKc9a2mygaiYUoNvM60WJxfypRkJarcl4BFSQ8PHwQNRcu5NMOsTPPJrO7tGjEQzRK-ud9uCTIV9zZLQo086LeScgLvbKStHIdTSJjubn0Q/s1600/Maureen%20Miller.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">Maureen Miller—wife, mother of
three, and Mosie to two—lives on Selah Farm, a hobby homestead nestled in the
mountains of western North Carolina. With a passion for God’s Word, Maureen is
an award-winning author and photographer, contributing as a guest blogger and
to several online devotion sites, as well as to a variety of collaboratives.
She prays to have eyes and ears open that she might experience God in the
miracles of His created world and blogs weekly about what He has to say
at <a href="http://www.penningpansies.com/" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">www.penningpansies.com</span></a><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">. Her debut novel is under contract with
Redemption Press. </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p><br /><p></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-61008307937990885752024-01-15T10:48:00.000-05:002024-01-15T10:48:02.670-05:00Who is My Antagonist? <p> </p><p class="Body"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">By
DiAnn Mills<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Body"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-6YIVpL7Ucj1KTCRF1sKS2kF2rRo0tr_ucUgWij1s3Tv2HO97e-Rc8yDGCxU7U-xvmu2J_lSlw7xe_NI47kSkk3K1RnZJKwqtDV2mNots-mgftSIbLL9ZG8FuggRcx7gSziwQejVJBOZjrIiSQp-7JW8jkUA4D4NgnGgTK7h20dhv1KvQaAWmlywlA/s406/Characters%20-%20Photo%20by%20Kenny%20Eliason%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="273" data-original-width="406" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-6YIVpL7Ucj1KTCRF1sKS2kF2rRo0tr_ucUgWij1s3Tv2HO97e-Rc8yDGCxU7U-xvmu2J_lSlw7xe_NI47kSkk3K1RnZJKwqtDV2mNots-mgftSIbLL9ZG8FuggRcx7gSziwQejVJBOZjrIiSQp-7JW8jkUA4D4NgnGgTK7h20dhv1KvQaAWmlywlA/s320/Characters%20-%20Photo%20by%20Kenny%20Eliason%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">A
reader asked me how I discover my antagonist when creating a story. The short
answer is discovering the bad guy or guys is as much a surprise to me as the
characters and the reader.<o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="Body"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">My
writing routine is packed with organization, discipline, and schedules, so the
idea of plotting by the seat of my pants may be a little difficult to
comprehend.<br /><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Except
it's true. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Every
writer has a method of establishing a story. Mine is all based on creating an
adventure for readers. How can I send readers down a suspenseful path unless I
experience it myself?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">To
figure out my antagonist, I must first know my protagonist. Since I<span dir="RTL"></span><span dir="RTL"></span><span dir="RTL" lang="AR-SA"><span dir="RTL"></span><span dir="RTL"></span>’</span>m a character-driven,
organic writer, everything rises from a three-dimensional character who will be
my hero or heroine. My storyline churns from a what-if scenario. From there I
spend hours, weeks, sometimes months creating the who and why a character is
the only one to play a hero's role.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">The
process moves from a basic idea about the protagonist to a multi-page
characterization sketch where I complete exercises and questions. My sketch has
grown and been fine-tuned through two decades of writing. The goal is to learn
the personality, backstory, goals, wants, needs, strengths, weaknesses,
triumphs, failures, and the motivation propelling the character into action.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">What
does this have to do with the antagonist? I complete the same characterization
sketch for my bad guy, discovering the motivation behind his/her actions and
behavior. The difference is developing a character who has strengths in areas
where my protagonist is weak, and to give the antagonist an edge on how to
defeat the protagonist. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">I want
to show my antagonist:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Body" style="margin-left: 14.15pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -14.15pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Resourceful<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Body" style="margin-left: 14.15pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -14.15pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Unlikely
to be the bad guy<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Body" style="margin-left: 14.15pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -14.15pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Highly
motivated<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Body" style="margin-left: 14.15pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -14.15pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Redeemable
qualities<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Body" style="margin-left: 14.15pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -14.15pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Possesses
attributes of charm, wealth, ability to manipulate others, and/or extreme
intelligence.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">When
the antagonist insists upon keeping his/her identity hidden, I have two
solutions:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Write
a synopsis from the antagonist’s POV that shows superiority and a victory over
the protagonist.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Look
at the story backward to find who is working behind the scenes. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">There
are times when I must let my story rest for a few days until I figure out the
who and why. But discovering the antagonist is always an adventure.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">How
do you discover an antagonist when creating your story?</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt;"><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@neonbrand?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Kenny Eliason</a><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/assorted-color-ninjago-plastic-figures-CXDw96Oy-Yw?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></p><p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt;"><br /></p><p class="Default"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjIKzfFMiNLfOBCC1nuZ3nj1BlLxk0Z3FisDMLLgh4JbQayEfV_iCRGd2_kFmyMRpDmoA6rMm0DT6E7HMOrOGdKYmA0qBcu6Z8MCvnuVQVJ4KkkvATjSRjOth7Off-2kuY1gVbP7T-vdn38pjmUPEa2j3upAINg1DTqR-aEFQyWkSyb8S4DrstHFqRzA/s300/DiAnn%20Mills%207.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="240" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjIKzfFMiNLfOBCC1nuZ3nj1BlLxk0Z3FisDMLLgh4JbQayEfV_iCRGd2_kFmyMRpDmoA6rMm0DT6E7HMOrOGdKYmA0qBcu6Z8MCvnuVQVJ4KkkvATjSRjOth7Off-2kuY1gVbP7T-vdn38pjmUPEa2j3upAINg1DTqR-aEFQyWkSyb8S4DrstHFqRzA/s1600/DiAnn%20Mills%207.jpeg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">DiAnn
Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an
adventure. She is a storyteller and creates action-packed, suspense-filled
novels to thrill readers. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA
bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA,
Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. <o:p></o:p></span><p></p><p class="Default"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="BodyAA"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">DiAnn
is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a member
of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, and
International Thriller Writers. She continues her passion for helping other
writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing
workshops around the country. Connect with DiAnn on her various social media
platforms here: </span><a href="http://www.diannmills.com/"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">www.diannmills.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt;">
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt;"><br /></p><p class="FreeForm" style="line-height: 14.0pt;"><br /></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-37749682280727974952024-01-08T18:10:00.000-05:002024-01-08T18:10:48.871-05:00Writing from Painful Places<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">By Marilyn Nutter<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">My suffering was good for me, for it
taught me to pay attention to your decrees.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Psalm 119:71 NLT<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkOaFz5NSl0eFR_MuhYni774z0VtVT3eHGAl1zqedXsmsAClt2U9TNRaLkdk0Xw8b_O-kX5hSRWwZ1_crIIU9Waqe2NxTzxnNz-JP7MCuvO5LiP0FQv-CrsumN7yBvJRule6gg9LQaAHcV64fVQ64NScUTdOkVpVwakSNEMzD57U_Xr-CCDod3mSTihQ/s320/Marilyn%20Nutter%20book%20cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="239" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkOaFz5NSl0eFR_MuhYni774z0VtVT3eHGAl1zqedXsmsAClt2U9TNRaLkdk0Xw8b_O-kX5hSRWwZ1_crIIU9Waqe2NxTzxnNz-JP7MCuvO5LiP0FQv-CrsumN7yBvJRule6gg9LQaAHcV64fVQ64NScUTdOkVpVwakSNEMzD57U_Xr-CCDod3mSTihQ/s1600/Marilyn%20Nutter%20book%20cover.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Those words came from
the testimony of a man at church one Sunday morning. John had just been
released after spending five years in prison. In that time, he came to faith in
Jesus Christ <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As he continued speaking,
he reaffirmed that we didn’t misunderstand, but yes, his suffering was used for
good and he was thankful. <o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">The definition of “good”
is relative and overused. We say the weather is <i>good</i> for a picnic. Or
“That was such a <i>good </i>meal.” But what does it mean when a person says,
“It is good that I have suffered”? <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">John’s testimony went
on to show there was benefit to his affliction. His life had changed through
finding Jesus, and he had learned valuable lessons. In speaking to us, he
wanted to share the goodness of his experience.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">As writers, we can
apply his lesson. If we have had a life-altering experience or a tough life season,
can we find good in it to share? Not that our situation in itself was good or
pleasant, was fixed, or a problem solved, but that our life change has been
used by God for His good purposes. Is there a target audience who needs to read
and be encouraged by your experience? How can you proceed?<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Begin
by identifying the pain point of your experience.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">What
are some of the lessons you learned? Were they spiritual, relational,
professional? </span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">What
did you learn about God, His character, and His promises?</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Did
you grow, change, and move forward with purpose?</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Can
you write your story and maintain confidences?</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Can
you be real and practical?</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Where
can you submit a blogpost, article, compilation entry, or book? </span></span></li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you develop your
story, offer tips and resources for readers to see an opportunity to manage
their experience. Perhaps you can offer particular Bible passages, biblical
principles, suggested readings, websites, or support groups.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">When Joseph was
reunited with his brothers in Genesis 50:20, he told them, “You meant it for
evil, but God intended it for good.” His time away from family and a prison
sentence weren’t <i>good</i>, but his character grew, and God positioned him
for a purpose. Our painful experiences include suffering and often an outcome
we might not have wanted. Some problems don’t have solutions but they always
have God who accompanies every step we take. That was the takeaway John wanted
his audience to see. That is often the biggest takeaway we share in our
writing. Perhaps there is a reader waiting to hear that from you.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnq3WOoC8GHreykqcnbSSthprrsULiHTXIs82vBXmVCoCSkj9h3KjIoWLtNGfVnjDgGpZuy_20S6fuo7cFbbWg5r9s895ChcoavV_CQO_FwzmYVvDFblFvsikP5n_FUEx6_lKJNnv2eoSaYuMgsAy2r360idtNivac5LWuUKARHmINyP3XQQX4jmfu-g/s317/Marilyn%20Nutter%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="314" data-original-width="317" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnq3WOoC8GHreykqcnbSSthprrsULiHTXIs82vBXmVCoCSkj9h3KjIoWLtNGfVnjDgGpZuy_20S6fuo7cFbbWg5r9s895ChcoavV_CQO_FwzmYVvDFblFvsikP5n_FUEx6_lKJNnv2eoSaYuMgsAy2r360idtNivac5LWuUKARHmINyP3XQQX4jmfu-g/s1600/Marilyn%20Nutter%202.jpg" width="317" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">Marilyn Nutter writes,
not as a professional counselor or through research about grief, but as one who
walks that unwelcomed, personal experience of widowhood and has found God
faithful in every step. In her journey, she continues to experience the grace of
God-sent treasures in puzzling and new circumstances and desires to encourage
others. Her book, <b><i><a href="https://tinyurl.com/2mu5becz" target="_blank">Hope for Widows: Reflections on Mourning, Living, and Change</a>,</i></b> was released by Our Daily Bread Publishing on Jan. 2, 2024. It
offers 65 vignettes with opportunities for readers’ personal reflections. She
is a contributor to compilations, author of devotional books and co-author with
April White of <b><i>Destination Hope: A Travel Companion When Life Falls Apart</i></b>. </span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Visit https://marilynnutter.com where you will find encouragement to weave hope
and purpose into your life stories.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Here’s the Amazon link for her new book:
<a href="https://tinyurl.com/2mu5becz">https://tinyurl.com/2mu5becz</a></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-11196927027273053882024-01-01T11:54:00.000-05:002024-01-01T11:54:49.084-05:00Writer, Set Achievable Goals for 2024<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">By Andrea Merrell<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">With the changing of the calendar we’re always faced with the
same question: <i>What are your resolutions for the New Year?<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjfCS1x1L8WAGpo2Fwe35xSWEaEOv6Z7f3SUWstAOAzzVElWPth-h-Ru-ANKXFZq3MQ-v1XcSniRv5xnsNDPC2I_SoFlYmI_VXCchXM7P-InG_hVVD-b4FYt3WvdMtbnxT03E9LUrMuvvoH4z4h3XMPB6qCvcZrnYZojGAUOuGvBqnV-mt4rYh1lhyphenhyphenNw/s384/2024%20-%20Photo%20by%20BoliviaInteligente%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="384" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjfCS1x1L8WAGpo2Fwe35xSWEaEOv6Z7f3SUWstAOAzzVElWPth-h-Ru-ANKXFZq3MQ-v1XcSniRv5xnsNDPC2I_SoFlYmI_VXCchXM7P-InG_hVVD-b4FYt3WvdMtbnxT03E9LUrMuvvoH4z4h3XMPB6qCvcZrnYZojGAUOuGvBqnV-mt4rYh1lhyphenhyphenNw/s320/2024%20-%20Photo%20by%20BoliviaInteligente%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Unfortunately, as we all know, most of those resolutions start
out strong, then fizzle out around mid-February. We mean well but sometimes set
our expectations too high and put undue pressure on ourselves: Lose weight. Go
to the gym. Eat healthier. Read my Bible more. Clean out the garage. Go on that
much-needed vacation. Watch less TV and write more. If we’ve had a particularly
rough year, we vow to make up for it in the one ahead. That can seem
overwhelming and cause us to give up completely when we can’t get it all done.<o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve learned the hard way that resolutions don’t work for me.
I prefer baby steps. Small achievable goals that I can easily meet and mark off
my to-do list. This is especially true in my writing and editing life. As I go
into this New Year of 2024, I have editing projects to complete. Various
manuscripts of my own that need work. Forms that need to be updated. Schedules
to make. Emails to clean out and/or attend to. Much-needed filing. Blog posts waiting to be tweaked
and posted. Books that need to be read. Reviews that need to be written. Writing
buddies I want to catch up with. Contest entries to judge. Conferences I need
to attend. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">Whew!</span></i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"> Makes me tired just thinking
about it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">The old adage about the best way to eat an elephant is simply
one bite at a time applies here. Prioritize your tasks, then tackle them one at
a time. Most importantly, attend to things you’ve been putting off. You know,
the difficult, time-consuming ones.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">What does this New Year look like for you? Do you have goals
for 2024? Have you given thought to what you’d like to accomplish? If you don’t
have anything in mind, here are a few suggestions to get you started”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Create a website (if you don’t already have one).</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Update your current website (give it a facelift).</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Start blogging (or reach out to some guest bloggers).</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Enter a contest.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Join (or create) a critique group.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Attend a workshop or conference.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pull out that manuscript you’ve tucked away and work on it.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Read a new book on the craft of writing.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Write a review for the last book you read.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Be part of a launch team to support fellow writers.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Reach out to other writers you’ve met and build your network.</span></span></li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">And remember … we can’t do it all, at least not all at once. Eat
that elephant one bite at a time. He’s much easier to digest that way. </span><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji", sans-serif" style="line-height: 107%;">😊</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR198PsqsE1QomeQFX5FA8yf_-NUkCBg5hJ9PJG9RxfYD3aL2Dv5ROINEZxwaYJ1iRzlmhkDz0axfpospSJQXTDX_4-F1WEmivwOVeUjO1A4XZPd7dIg0m1VycjVV1bjaNcB7yS7GO9HN7f8AgDjRoCqxQgZW4MbNWpRw-b6GqbFhsesC82yFDCx_iKw/s439/Happy%20New%20Year%202024%20-%20Photo%20by%20Ricardo%20Loaiza%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="238" data-original-width="439" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR198PsqsE1QomeQFX5FA8yf_-NUkCBg5hJ9PJG9RxfYD3aL2Dv5ROINEZxwaYJ1iRzlmhkDz0axfpospSJQXTDX_4-F1WEmivwOVeUjO1A4XZPd7dIg0m1VycjVV1bjaNcB7yS7GO9HN7f8AgDjRoCqxQgZW4MbNWpRw-b6GqbFhsesC82yFDCx_iKw/s320/Happy%20New%20Year%202024%20-%20Photo%20by%20Ricardo%20Loaiza%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">If you have other suggestions, we would love to hear them.<o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Praying God’s richest blessings over you and your writing in
2024.<br /><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@boliviainteligente?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">BoliviaInteligente</a><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/a-3d-rendering-of-the-year-2013-and-the-number-2013-je6MW99qDhQ?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@rickpekar?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Ricardo Loaiza</a><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/a-happy-new-year-message-surrounded-by-confetti-NZ2wGaTNrDI?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-62463488500936312302023-12-24T13:27:00.000-05:002023-12-24T13:27:53.930-05:00Merry Christmas from The Write Editing<p> </p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-large;"><div style="text-align: center;">Merry Christmas </div></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">from The Write Editing!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: xx-large;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large;">(https://thewriteediting.blogspot.com/)</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-large;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2nOOJpFl_TMvTSNsEMtNEpL4sqd7VUbTq-CkYciebPtPFCN3IjTIHVDFccJyz2wX9C2nPlYIxDCr3_kBJbA1zPVXaOx2F6XnywBwnCeuGeSFRJ85VI9x6nF015vljN2-om4sdXlR8-p8Bo_ojf50Sb33A4-M2MFPRGlF6X63-uQOjnNB5w5mrVD5DTw/s493/Merry%20Christmas%204%20-%20Photo%20by%20Lee%20Jeffs%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="359" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2nOOJpFl_TMvTSNsEMtNEpL4sqd7VUbTq-CkYciebPtPFCN3IjTIHVDFccJyz2wX9C2nPlYIxDCr3_kBJbA1zPVXaOx2F6XnywBwnCeuGeSFRJ85VI9x6nF015vljN2-om4sdXlR8-p8Bo_ojf50Sb33A4-M2MFPRGlF6X63-uQOjnNB5w5mrVD5DTw/s320/Merry%20Christmas%204%20-%20Photo%20by%20Lee%20Jeffs%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="233" /></a></div></span><p></p><p><br /></p><p><i>Photo courtesy of Unsplash and Lee Jeffs.</i></p></div></div></div>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-42860027969099014622023-12-11T13:25:00.000-05:002023-12-11T13:25:25.314-05:00What is Overwriting and Tips to Avoid It<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">By Edie Melson @EdieMelson<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSulO6EUkx8_7eRJMKCn6NcYi4GAfaDtk1vxMDoSyGL9hSCpRkgclN-PE77FN8ZnLl1SLMfjACU6KfMirI5fvL_a1q6qlmSmBVsVhyphenhyphenhF7RM28XhU8exJBljxkxO-tyz_coA8dLBQG6tD5VWkmiqM9M64ZmaoxzVBsohSsqwKcPYNimnTwMuQuwZ8XTQ/s415/Write%20and%20Edit%20-%20Photo%20by%20hannah%20grace%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="289" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSulO6EUkx8_7eRJMKCn6NcYi4GAfaDtk1vxMDoSyGL9hSCpRkgclN-PE77FN8ZnLl1SLMfjACU6KfMirI5fvL_a1q6qlmSmBVsVhyphenhyphenhF7RM28XhU8exJBljxkxO-tyz_coA8dLBQG6tD5VWkmiqM9M64ZmaoxzVBsohSsqwKcPYNimnTwMuQuwZ8XTQ/w215-h308/Write%20and%20Edit%20-%20Photo%20by%20hannah%20grace%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="215" /></a></div><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">If we look at writing from
a numbers point of view, it would be logical to assume that the more words, the
better. But writing is NOT a numbers sport, and overwriting is the mark of a
lazy writer.<br /><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">It's also something we all
do, especially in a first draft. There's nothing wrong with that—as long as we
take the time to go back and rework what we've written. <a name="more"></a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Myth:</span></span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">The more words the better.
Some of the great writers of all time come to mind to support this myth—can
anyone say Charles Dickens? But one thing people forget about this great author
is he made his living writing serials for a newspaper. Keeping the story going,
kept the paycheck coming. Don’t get me wrong, I think Charles Dickens was a
genius writer. But his era was very different from ours. Wise writers take that
into consideration before using him as an example to be long-winded.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Fact:</span></span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">It takes more work and more
skill to use fewer words to convey the same meaning. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">Just in case you’re not
convinced, here’s a real-life example. It’s from an article I sold to a home
improvement website.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Avoid Overwriting Articles</span></span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Long-winded version:</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">An epoxy floor covering for
the garage can be a really good thing. It can increase the value of your home
and make keeping the garage clean and organized easy. But there are downsides
to this option. </span></i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">We have all gotten the
advice that doing something right the first time is the best way. This saying
is definitely true when it comes to applying an epoxy floor covering to the
garage. When the epoxy floor covering is applied by a qualified professional it
can last a lifetime. But if you don’t find a quality product, and a qualified
installer the outcome of this project can end up costing you cash instead of
saving you. This article will give you everything you need to make the best
decision when it comes to adding an epoxy finish to your garage. (138 words)</span></i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Tightened version:</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">We’ve all heard the axiom,
“Do it right the first time.” This was never more true than when it’s applied
to epoxy flooring for the garage. This floor covering can last a lifetime, when
applied by a qualified professional. Or it can last less than a year, if you
chose the wrong product and installer. We’ll give you all the information you
need to make an informed decision. (68 words)</span></i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">Because of space
constraints, the word count was absolute. I had to deliver an informative
article in 420 words or less. That meant I had to cut everything that wasn’t
absolutely necessary. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">What had to go (and
why): </span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">In the long-winded version
of the article, I have a nice lead-in paragraph. It’s not bad, but it’s also
not necessary. The tight version manages to give the same information in just
under half the word count.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">In the long-winded version
of the article, there are also lots of repeated words. Not only is this sloppy
writing, but it’s also irritating to read. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tightening up an article is
one thing, but what about fiction? <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Avoid Overwriting Fiction</span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">The same principles holds
true. It's never a good idea to slow down a good story with unneeded verbiage.
Here’s an example from a scene I wrote for a cozy mystery:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Long-winded version:</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">She got out of bed and
paced around the room, taking deep breaths and willing her heart rate to slow.
She’d read somewhere it helped with panic attacks, but it certainly wasn’t
doing her any good. Glancing down at the phone still in her hand, her finger shook
as it scrolled through previous calls. Her pacing slowed to a stop in the
middle of the room. This couldn’t be right. None of the numbers were familiar.
(76 words)</span></i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Tightened version:</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVR6O2vx0oDca9vnMk6SvaQHeX7SZ5aekbGvedJtkcxAT4XyTf8AtQ45L6TA4cf-WMKRVyPNf3pGDOoSmw26Oi9vj98XtFGqsSRmrZWruqEyRUQQvVBq7XRdSoAaKwnp2rJfjL_7E9uokQ1YjCUin8mQUhMOsHwloanBVnK3O33VjjiD-_RNYTvoLqOA/s377/Scissors%20-%20Photo%20by%20Gabriel%20Mihalcea%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="252" data-original-width="377" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVR6O2vx0oDca9vnMk6SvaQHeX7SZ5aekbGvedJtkcxAT4XyTf8AtQ45L6TA4cf-WMKRVyPNf3pGDOoSmw26Oi9vj98XtFGqsSRmrZWruqEyRUQQvVBq7XRdSoAaKwnp2rJfjL_7E9uokQ1YjCUin8mQUhMOsHwloanBVnK3O33VjjiD-_RNYTvoLqOA/s320/Scissors%20-%20Photo%20by%20Gabriel%20Mihalcea%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">She got out of bed and
paced the room, taking deep breaths and willing her heart rate to slow. She’d
read somewhere it helped with panic attacks, but it certainly wasn’t doing her
any good. Her finger shook as it scrolled though previous calls. Her pacing
stopped. This couldn’t be right. None of the numbers were familiar. (57 words)<br /></span></i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">What had to go (and why):
In the long-winded version there are several phrases that could be cut because
her actions implied them.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pacing implies around the
room. No one can pace in one place.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">Her finger shook as it
scrolled through previous calls implies she was glancing down at the phone
still in her hand. She's got to be looking at the phone to do this.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">In the long-winded version,
I slowed down the action in a tense scene with the phrase, her pacing slowed to
a stop in the middle of the room. It's much stronger to just say, her pacing
stopped.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you can see, no matter
what you're writing, brevity is pure gold. Take time to go back over your
words, evaluate the effectiveness of each one and keep only the ones you need.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;">How about you? Are there
any redundant phrases you see in books or articles that irritate you?<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #4d5355; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@oddityandgrace?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">hannah grace</a><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/a-white-box-with-writing-on-it-next-to-a-plant-j9JoYpaJH3A?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@lovelyscape?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Gabriel Mihalcea</a><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/a-pair-of-scissors-sitting-on-top-of-a-white-table-5KJzOlsDvVw?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #4d5355; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistXfTz-q65mvKL3AlIYh44uQcoh78lbW9O4zC5Ui3kuwcuqB3EzjvMs-uL39aVc8i6BEzOq9lCLg4VukAHaAjl7IuDReIZllpLT1g2Qbx2Fm4L_Q3uNRgfjJxaKLg7vCqFOcxhxPFOFOtQ3edwjcwTTM-xcRHSkIRQ5m83qtZ71Tf1LWh8zBJ-q3-Kw/s369/Edie%204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="296" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistXfTz-q65mvKL3AlIYh44uQcoh78lbW9O4zC5Ui3kuwcuqB3EzjvMs-uL39aVc8i6BEzOq9lCLg4VukAHaAjl7IuDReIZllpLT1g2Qbx2Fm4L_Q3uNRgfjJxaKLg7vCqFOcxhxPFOFOtQ3edwjcwTTM-xcRHSkIRQ5m83qtZ71Tf1LWh8zBJ-q3-Kw/s320/Edie%204.jpg" width="257" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">Edie Melson is a woman of faith with
ink-stained fingers observing life through her camera lens. She’s a writer who
feels lost without that device & an unexpected speaker who loves to
encourage an audience. She also embraces the ultimate contradiction of being an
organized creative. She knows the necessity of Soul Care and leads retreats,
conferences & workshops around the world on staying connected to God. Her
numerous books, including the award-winning Soul Care series & reflect her
passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts. Her blog,
The Write Conversation is recognized as one of the top 101 industry
resources. <o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #4d5355; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #4d5355; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">She and husband Kirk have been married 40+
years and raised three sons. They live in the foothills of the Blue Ridge
Mountains and can often be found hiking—with Edie clinging to the edge of a
precipice for the perfect camera angle and Kirk patiently carrying her camera
bag and tripod. Connect with her on her website, www.EdieMelson.com and through
social media. <br /><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-32149407915000886372023-12-04T13:34:00.000-05:002023-12-04T13:34:09.750-05:00Writer, What Does God Want You To Do?<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">By Andrea Merrell<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">In my last post, we talked about not stifling our creativity
by thinking we must find our niche and stay in our lane. We looked at the endless
possibilities of branching out and writing whatever God gives us and pursing
what we are passionate about.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsYv47wjUnJQDaAxLgspda55wvipti6zo4_JSVFoyFaN77TbP9LMjz9jevXXyTbUXpGvTs43ADgqyWrBt1z6txc-1pKj9W-gYMfDeNP2uct7JkCDoco2f7PykxnQ9A4d7uHXwtfq_SlkAaPIRPS9bYh9p-raJPzYQEsB-_QWghOyyOER3rIhIgKW4/s485/What%20-%20Photo%20by%20Rhys%20Kentish%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="485" data-original-width="388" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsYv47wjUnJQDaAxLgspda55wvipti6zo4_JSVFoyFaN77TbP9LMjz9jevXXyTbUXpGvTs43ADgqyWrBt1z6txc-1pKj9W-gYMfDeNP2uct7JkCDoco2f7PykxnQ9A4d7uHXwtfq_SlkAaPIRPS9bYh9p-raJPzYQEsB-_QWghOyyOER3rIhIgKW4/s320/What%20-%20Photo%20by%20Rhys%20Kentish%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">A dear lady said to me recently, “I don’t really know what God
wants me to do.”<br /><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Maybe that’s a universal problem. If so, let’s address it and
look at what it means for us as writers.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Exactly what <i>does</i> God want us to do? And how does He
tell us? In dreams? Visions? Through other people? Does He guide us through His
Word? Or simply drop an idea into our heart?<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">I believe it can be all of the above. One writer says that
even when God gives a specific dream or vision, we sometimes have to go against
the flow and break out of the proverbial box. We have to give ourselves
permission to be obedient no matter what others might think or say. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Paul certainly went against the flow. But he knew his calling
and said, “I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision” (Acts 26:19 NKJV).<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">So, how do we move forward on our writing journey with
confident assurance? According to the <i>Word for You Today</i>, there are
several questions we must ask ourselves:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">What has God called me to do?</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">What is my role in it?</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">What skill set do I need to sharpen?</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">What knowledge do I need to acquire?</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">What relationships do I need to build?</span></span></li></ul><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">People are hungry for the truth. They are starving for
affirmation and direction. Desperate to fill up the God-shaped void inside. But
too many are looking in all the wrong places and giving ear to the wrong
voices. As writers who pen words to glorify God and point others to Him, we
have our own unique voice. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMZSR7eDx91GqR5UL8BAoYXi2CHPqBERmkFv13bcIN43OgAgLZyR1OvflptpPUcd2fnWVd5lCoLOgt94e5dNNvAfNNrV0l5ApqYZrrEKyoKZwc7eexi0imP61KQIk1g6AOS-TeR3FnoOc81Pi-rqP8rNhrMsVRhoB-eapldzvrAtc3C0HrBY9IOU/s530/Pad%20and%20Pen%20-%20Photo%20by%20Aaron%20Burden%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="530" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMZSR7eDx91GqR5UL8BAoYXi2CHPqBERmkFv13bcIN43OgAgLZyR1OvflptpPUcd2fnWVd5lCoLOgt94e5dNNvAfNNrV0l5ApqYZrrEKyoKZwc7eexi0imP61KQIk1g6AOS-TeR3FnoOc81Pi-rqP8rNhrMsVRhoB-eapldzvrAtc3C0HrBY9IOU/s320/Pad%20and%20Pen%20-%20Photo%20by%20Aaron%20Burden%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">In 1839, </span><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">playwright Edward Bulwer-Lytton</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"> said, </span><span lang="EN" style="color: #202124; font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">"The
pen is mightier than the sword." In other words, a pen can accomplish far
more than a sword. And words are eternal while violence is short lived.<br /><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">When Paul received a vision from the Lord, the first thing he
asked was, “Lord, what do you want me to do?” (Acts 9:6 NKJV). <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Our prayer for today—and every day—should be, “Lord, what do
you want me to do?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">When we ask, He will answer. Then all we have to do is be obedient.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have you asked God what He wants you to do?</span></span></p><p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; white-space: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@rhyskentish?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Rhys Kentish</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/TFgLjR9TAEM?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; white-space: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@aaronburden?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Aaron Burden</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/xG8IQMqMITM?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-80352310919924198982023-11-27T11:27:00.000-05:002023-11-27T11:27:53.124-05:00Investments in Your Writing Career are Valuable<p> </p><p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">By Cindy K. Sproles<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKa03bReFrgg6BgRZZv-qRiy_ulAO_rYV_df10kes7-vecMCztwd42mpePsLaOMKiCZTeZJL841kAU7AikxMlzq1xbakRdUBawicMaEVis5xkAsf5AMAIiNLCkgHN1X7f8fGYEee4J1Ibwvmfbs8AsKrH3ffPaFI41Fii3XEG-fYaXlRNYanYzwC181g/s400/Piggy%20Bank%20-%20cooldesign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="400" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKa03bReFrgg6BgRZZv-qRiy_ulAO_rYV_df10kes7-vecMCztwd42mpePsLaOMKiCZTeZJL841kAU7AikxMlzq1xbakRdUBawicMaEVis5xkAsf5AMAIiNLCkgHN1X7f8fGYEee4J1Ibwvmfbs8AsKrH3ffPaFI41Fii3XEG-fYaXlRNYanYzwC181g/s320/Piggy%20Bank%20-%20cooldesign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Writers live on pennies. If we’re
lucky, dimes. So when conferences roll around, it’s our eyes that roll at the
pennies we spend. No one will argue that attending a conference is expensive.
It is also the one place you will latch on, not only to your dream but also to
the necessary learning needed to excel as a writer.<br /> <o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The more you dive into the writing
industry, the more you see dollar signs raise, and at times it’s hard to know
when or where we should spend our money. The expenses of being a writer are like
a scene in the Mary Poppins movie. The one where the older woman sits on a
bench feeding the birds. She sings, “Feed the birds. Tuppence a bag.” (Two
pennies). If only tuppence were what we were looking at, right?<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It’s important to address some of
these expenses and help you decide if this is something you need now or later.
As a conference director, I get the importance of this question. Since we are
launching into a new year, let’s look at the expenses writers can incur.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Conferences </span></span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;">A conference costs from $100 - $1200. There
are tons of variables included in this cost: the venue, time of year, conference
length, and faculty number. Writers have to look at the options available and
see what is right for them. A conference should be the number one thing you
invest in for your career. At conferences, you learn the craft of writing, network
with other writers, meet editors, agents, and publishers. You’ll learn about
the business of writing, and attending a conference will bring you a refined
look at your writing career by helping you find your calling, set your goals,
and receive encouragement. Individuals have to look at their finances and
decide how much they want to invest in their careers. It’s a personal decision,
but I have yet to regret spending any money to attend a conference. The payback
is immediate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>**** 4 stars</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Conference CDs or MP3s </span></span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;">This is the<b> </b>purchase of extended
learning and keeps on giving. If you attend a conference, make every effort to
come home with the recordings of the classes. You will have this learning
forever. Conference recordings will vary from $1.99 per class to $200 for
the entire conference and everywhere in between. I have recordings from every
conference I've attended that I continually listen to in my car, at my desk, on my phone. My
skills continue to grow because I purchased and use these recordings over and
over through the years. <b>****4 stars</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Paid Critiques</span></span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: x-large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;">Those 15-minute appointments are great
for you to meet and network with editors, agents, and publishers. If you are on
a tight budget, it’s not something you have to have unless you have work ready
to be pitched. If you have a solid piece of work that is completed or near
completion, then a paid critique is great. You can choose the person you want to pitch the work to, let them look over your work, spend some in-depth
time with it, and then with you. This is when a paid critique pays off. You
have a prime opportunity to allow a professional to take a look at your work.
Not only do you learn from it but you might catch a break on publication or at
least submission. <b>***3 stars.</b> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Mentoring </span></span></b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63oAo9JXhPZrOxRE5JJg8kKC1XDFdqfhENDIdOFBV8Yz1QnYXXx08AkgppyhYP83Vqd50Uoa5LRCpbAO4Js1LBYO92NrDAcJxFQ2R4CaIFDwpg4be_wZv0r6G36sCE7k7V63llru3GHDOLO0yBosCxZZvl0FTs2DVQrRlbrRdp9KLuuyFejSsskdYVQ/s960/Cindy%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63oAo9JXhPZrOxRE5JJg8kKC1XDFdqfhENDIdOFBV8Yz1QnYXXx08AkgppyhYP83Vqd50Uoa5LRCpbAO4Js1LBYO92NrDAcJxFQ2R4CaIFDwpg4be_wZv0r6G36sCE7k7V63llru3GHDOLO0yBosCxZZvl0FTs2DVQrRlbrRdp9KLuuyFejSsskdYVQ/s320/Cindy%202.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;">Mentoring is valuable for those who have a
strong work in progress and need some guidance. Mentors are generally
well-seasoned authors or editors whose ability and information is well worth
your time and money. If you have a work in progress with some chops and a
teachable spirit, a mentor can be the icing on the cake in helping you cut
through to a publisher or agent. Their years of experience will help you with
tricks of the trade you will only find in this one-on-one situation. Mentoring costs
from $50 -$600 <b>***3 stars.<br /> <o:p></o:p></b></span></span><p></p>
<p><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Editing</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;">Before I send anything to my agent or
publisher, I invest in a content editor to go through my manuscript and be sure
it is as clean as it can be. The less work the editors and publishers have on a
project translates as money saved for them and a great reputation for you.
Editing falls under your work ethic and how much you are willing to do to make
your work as publishable as it can be. Be responsible and do your homework.
Editors are a dime a dozen, but reputable editors are found through Christian
Pen resources or conference faculty, agents, or editors. Spend your money
wisely by choosing an editor with a solid background. Do your homework. <b>****4
stars</b> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Self-publishing</span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;">This is a luxury not a necessity. Spend
your money learning the craft, then publish. Who knows, you may land a
traditional contract. <b>*1 star</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Contests</span></span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: x-large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;">Unless they are national book contests,
they translate into a nice pat on the back. Good encouragement. They rarely, if
ever, bring an unpublished writer a contract. A published author will get name
recognition and that is worth the sales generated from a contest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Choose a couple, enter, and learn to present
your work. <b>***2 stars</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">There is an old saying, “If a
person wants something, they’ll find a way to get it." And it’s true. Begin by
saving $5 a week. Just take it out of your wallet and drop it in a jar. $5 a
week. Oh, and drop that loose change in there too. We once saved all our loose
change and paid for a week at the beach. Those dimes and quarters add up
quickly. Give up Starbucks two days a week and save $10. The point is, save.
Plan. Take a small portion of your income tax return (if you get one) rather
than wasting it. Invest in yourself. It’s a good habit that will pay in the
future. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;">(First published on Blue Ridge
Mountains Christian Writers Conference Blog)</span></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><i>Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net and cooldesign.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicTaWEM_3v1ngdtYWsLWgA3bm-hbr-C1nZBFhEuWCFI0iqLTgv06XZpPXrhxD_EVryphXmSpKlNUyU0_Us6neAYhDdxAsapHU08JNmg8Uj_l7-DPjS-xdD3ub1mSjdN5fjVgp2UChzgSRv3c7zrIaSb8Bpp-xWbeRz_jHzQ0zl84bTvE6sIeeH1d_mmA/s375/Cindy%20newest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicTaWEM_3v1ngdtYWsLWgA3bm-hbr-C1nZBFhEuWCFI0iqLTgv06XZpPXrhxD_EVryphXmSpKlNUyU0_Us6neAYhDdxAsapHU08JNmg8Uj_l7-DPjS-xdD3ub1mSjdN5fjVgp2UChzgSRv3c7zrIaSb8Bpp-xWbeRz_jHzQ0zl84bTvE6sIeeH1d_mmA/s320/Cindy%20newest.jpg" width="256" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">Cindy
K. Sproles is proud of her Appalachian Mountain heritage and loves to share it
with others. She is an author, speaker, and conference teacher, teaching
across the country. Cindy is the co-founder of Christian Devotions Ministries,
and she has served as a managing editor for two publishing houses. Cindy is the
director of the Asheville Christian Writers Conference, held each February at
the Cove, Asheville, NC. She is married and has four adult sons and two grands.<br /><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></i></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-51831502578119129672023-11-20T14:39:00.000-05:002023-11-20T14:39:47.223-05:00Do I Need a Launch Team?<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">By Tammy Karasek<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghsmr5vqYVslxAfs719WWCGIHNcoX3uWWPmBewXpwIupchXrsh9DmqgawWcYibH4KtEZufbSzcVs9dcOpwwgp4TcQwA9G_GW7FDsKOf399Jn9y-yhyphenhyphenCFfkzJl5S7GUfsR50LdMEul5qzhWN_RtPWdmkG24-uXWzaVo7B5QGRpPXlsQWpAW3qA-Yj-zXw/s320/Tammy%20Karasek%20book%20cover.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghsmr5vqYVslxAfs719WWCGIHNcoX3uWWPmBewXpwIupchXrsh9DmqgawWcYibH4KtEZufbSzcVs9dcOpwwgp4TcQwA9G_GW7FDsKOf399Jn9y-yhyphenhyphenCFfkzJl5S7GUfsR50LdMEul5qzhWN_RtPWdmkG24-uXWzaVo7B5QGRpPXlsQWpAW3qA-Yj-zXw/s1600/Tammy%20Karasek%20book%20cover.jpeg" width="200" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Every writer, no
matter if they choose to independently publish or go the traditional publishing
route will come to the same point during the process. <i>Now that my book is
finished, how do I let people know it’s available?</i></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Too often I hear
people say they think it must be hard for self-published people to get the word
out about their book, and that it’s so easy for traditional published authors
because they sit back and let the publisher handle it all.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">To both comments,
I say: Nope.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Since 2012, I’ve
been on, helped with, or managed close to 290 launch teams. I’ve been part of
three styles of publishing—self-published, hybrid published, and the
traditional published book. I can tell you, no matter the type of publishing
you choose for your book, the majority of the marketing and launching will fall
on the shoulders of the author. You can’t fight it, so don’t waste the effort.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Instead, know it’s
coming and prepare yourself for it. One marketing piece you’ll need to know
about is a launch session and team. Whether you’d like to learn something about
the method of how to launch your book or what to expect if you hire a
professional to do the launch for you, guess what? You’ll still need to know a
few items to do for yourself. Or at least be aware of to ask the launch manager
you interview to hire if they do this particular item or not.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Here's seven tips
to get you started:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">No
matter how you will publish your book, you’ll need a launch session/team.</span></span></li><li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">You
need to work with a launch team six to eight weeks from the launch date, but no
less than six for an effective launch.</span></span></li><li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Decide
ahead of time if you will do any incentives for the team so there is ample time
to order, create, or have them ready to use once a winner is chosen.</span></span></li><li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Interact
with your Launch Team throughout the session, but not by asking them to do a
task every single day of the launch session. Not too much and not too little either.</span></span></li><li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">As of
this posting, Facebook Groups are still a viable place to interact with a
Launch Team.</span></span></li><li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">As
soon as you have a book cover, create your graphics and schedule them into your
Launch Team Facebook Group so they are ready to go.</span></span></li><li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Join
AND PARTICIPATE in a launch team to get a feel for the activity load. In other
words, as a team member, were you asked to do something too often, or was there
much work involved at all? Middle ground is the key.</span></span></li></ol><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Bottom
line, have fun during your own launch, and your team will pick up that
enthusiasm and run with it.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">While I’m known as
The Launch Team Geek and run my own launch team management business, I’m aware
that I can’t possibly manage all of the teams I receive requests from. But I’m
a sharer at heart and decided to write a book that gives you my process of how
I run launch teams for my clients. The book is <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1962705021/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1849LHCW8FSPJ&keywords=books+by+tammy+karasek&qid=1700507415&sprefix=books+by+tammy+karasek%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Launch that Book</a></i> and is now
available on Amazon.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">If you’re a
writer, know a writer, or need a writerly gift for a friend, this small book is
packed with a lot of information to help anyone independent to traditionally
published launch their book. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Happy book launching!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00j5wU-_LQeZLZi1l2sYA5rFIh_Ak7D0AMjgTt5_oApaAPwtRy9x6Pq7jbQrsqiqaJFPJm1_6VrJTeGl7jUXLrFhlURjuc8xr1313ehTd9OLcH-DPLvETJTm7YiwibEMfvGQoGEf34R1-uXkSau2hX1YMTSMzUnw0HeOJLYzx5l0prkwdFlPZWG_JvA/s269/Tammy%20Karasek.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="269" data-original-width="240" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00j5wU-_LQeZLZi1l2sYA5rFIh_Ak7D0AMjgTt5_oApaAPwtRy9x6Pq7jbQrsqiqaJFPJm1_6VrJTeGl7jUXLrFhlURjuc8xr1313ehTd9OLcH-DPLvETJTm7YiwibEMfvGQoGEf34R1-uXkSau2hX1YMTSMzUnw0HeOJLYzx5l0prkwdFlPZWG_JvA/s1600/Tammy%20Karasek.jpeg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Tammy Karasek uses
humor and wit to bring joy and hope to every aspect in life. Her past, filled
with bullying and criticism from family, drives her passion to encourage and
inspire others and show them<span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #222222; padding: 0in;"> <i>The Reason </i></span><span style="background: white; color: #222222;">to smile. She’s gone from down and
defeated to living a</span><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #222222; padding: 0in;"> “</span><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; padding: 0in;">Tickled Pink” </span><span style="background: white; color: #222222;">life as she believes there’s always a
giggle wanting to come out!<br /> <o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">A writer of romantic suspense—with a splash of sass—her
debut book, <i>Launch That Book</i>, released in 2023. She’s published in a Divine
Moments Compilation Book—<i>Cool-inary Moments</i>. She’s also a writing team
member for The Write Conversation Blog, Novel Academy, Blue Ridge Conference
Blog, The Write Editing, and more.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Known as The Launch Team Geek, Tammy helps authors launch
their books. You’ll also find her as a Virtual Assistant for several
best-selling authors, the Social Media Manager for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian
Writers Conference, Founding President and current Vice-President of ACFW
Upstate SC, and Founding
President of Word Weavers Upstate SC. <span style="color: #3a3f4f;">Connect with
Tammy at </span><a href="https://tammykarasek.com/">https://www.tammykarasek.com</a><span style="color: #3a3f4f;">.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-28290466386377268662023-11-13T13:50:00.000-05:002023-11-13T13:50:36.623-05:00The Pyramid for Powerful Writing<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">By
Martin Wiles<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSdA2SCZjrKFRl445GlK7B3kHR8SGZpuJL7w8bZttQimgvvkXEFpqEr_OXs-lPAO15o9s3ZKWpKS4oiygWOHauGQ4Z59N7M1Sq0kUFDAbVxx1tIXIr7YAzkjVnvaZtnh9RczD1xJaMVcoMIv52lhLsJ3nHgyWnHO1CJd2t8Kv6NSRB4XKFzPmbt94pRg/s369/Pyramid%20-%20Photo%20by%20Michael%20Dziedzic%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="358" data-original-width="369" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSdA2SCZjrKFRl445GlK7B3kHR8SGZpuJL7w8bZttQimgvvkXEFpqEr_OXs-lPAO15o9s3ZKWpKS4oiygWOHauGQ4Z59N7M1Sq0kUFDAbVxx1tIXIr7YAzkjVnvaZtnh9RczD1xJaMVcoMIv52lhLsJ3nHgyWnHO1CJd2t8Kv6NSRB4XKFzPmbt94pRg/s320/Pyramid%20-%20Photo%20by%20Michael%20Dziedzic%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">As
writers, we aim for powerful writing. And as editors, we want to help other
writers realize dynamic writing as well. But how? A simple pyramid will help.<br /> <o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Every
day, I read sentences that lack zing—ones I’ve written or edited for other
writers. I appeal to my vocabulary, the built-in thesaurus in Microsoft Word,
Microsoft Editor, and Grammarly. And of course, Miriam Webster always avails
herself. But I’m wasting my time if I don’t know the pyramid that will make the
writing more powerful. My writing and the person’s devotion, article, or
manuscript I’m editing will fall short. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Rather
than start at the bottom and work our way up, let’s start at the top and wind
down, beginning with the most important words. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">The Vivid Verb</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Of
all the parts of speech, the verb is the most important. We must have one to
have a sentence, but not all stand on equal footing. At the theater or on
YouTube, the right word might not be that essential. After all, we can see what
the screenwriter wants. But on paper, words help us see, and of those words,
verbs sit on a glorious throne. Without vivid ones, writing slows almost to a
halt.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">John
can walk to the store, but he can also hobble. Now, I see him with a limp and
perhaps using a cane or crutches. I wonder what happened to him that put him in
that position. An entire range of pictures dance through my mind. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">The Specific Noun </span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Subjects
(nouns) are also necessary for a sentence to exist. But like verbs, all nouns
are not of equal value. Common nouns are persons, places, or things. But proper
nouns are specific persons, places, or things. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">The
main character can own a large dog, or he can own a German Shepherd, Doberman,
or Rottweiler. Our stories will paint a beautiful picture when the noun is
specific and the verb vivid. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">The Acting Adjective</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Adjectives
describe or modify our nouns. We won’t need many of them when we use vivid
verbs and specific nouns, but they help dress up our sentences. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">The Announcing Adverb</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Adverbs
get a bad rap—and they are frequently overused. Some are necessary, but not the
ones—often those ending in ly—that we use to prop up poor verbs and boring
nouns. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Adverbs
that announce time and place (when, where) prove essential. However, we should
replace the -ly ones that crutch a boring verb. A nurse can walk quietly into a
patient’s room, but it’s better if she tiptoes. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">When
we start at the top of the pyramid and scale our way down, we’ll write powerful
fiction and nonfiction—and help others do the same.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Photo <span style="color: #111111;">by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@lazycreekimages?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Michael Dziedzic</a><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/black-and-red-triangle-illustration-nc11Hg2ja-s?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE_BfWsLHWNp5JymyXH1kNCjQlnAftTEgvHtZ9ySe2-6_31gu0lgV5dJTCtSoXwRFyXPVVEfe7w9SuzzuQAQ0yKiAax3vSVgJzektaacvlAFXcm55l9UY9HLr5NoUQTYQ5a-i6g7rKDCBVZLnSReBLHCKe92cVlBurSd-lSz2i3r4zLZBxCclqxMrYVg/s300/Martin%20Wiles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="178" data-original-width="300" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE_BfWsLHWNp5JymyXH1kNCjQlnAftTEgvHtZ9ySe2-6_31gu0lgV5dJTCtSoXwRFyXPVVEfe7w9SuzzuQAQ0yKiAax3vSVgJzektaacvlAFXcm55l9UY9HLr5NoUQTYQ5a-i6g7rKDCBVZLnSReBLHCKe92cVlBurSd-lSz2i3r4zLZBxCclqxMrYVg/s1600/Martin%20Wiles.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Martin Wiles is the founder of Love Lines from God (</span><a href="http://www.lovelinesfromgod.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">www.lovelinesfromgod.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">) and
serves as Managing Editor for Christian Devotions and as a copy editor for
Courier Publishing. He has authored six books and has been published in
numerous publications. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">He is a freelance editor,
English teacher, author, and pastor</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">. <br /></span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p><p></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-68367631310169949992023-11-07T14:25:00.000-05:002023-11-07T14:25:39.486-05:00How Many Eyes are Too Many?<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">By Andrea Merrell<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKQa57hkfV0XgQhkyZnUQWjT2RceQ9pZFJe7eveoCtLZyHuHgNJC4ozSpStCCFjNn3LbjnwaPIPQIr3rIqclI7tu_LgFeWd6MfvpQXaeLDfBNjLl-1LayxOC4B3t5wbF7oD6-c96uX2mwZtdXqCdGkgK9JMloVio39JDqDKCNScrR0sAFoISJuNyANZw/s370/Eyes%20-%20Photo%20by%20Amanda%20Dalbj%C3%B6rn%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="277" data-original-width="370" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKQa57hkfV0XgQhkyZnUQWjT2RceQ9pZFJe7eveoCtLZyHuHgNJC4ozSpStCCFjNn3LbjnwaPIPQIr3rIqclI7tu_LgFeWd6MfvpQXaeLDfBNjLl-1LayxOC4B3t5wbF7oD6-c96uX2mwZtdXqCdGkgK9JMloVio39JDqDKCNScrR0sAFoISJuNyANZw/s320/Eyes%20-%20Photo%20by%20Amanda%20Dalbj%C3%B6rn%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I recently heard an author say, “With my next
book, there won’t be so many eyes on it.”<o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">But I thought the more eyes the better</span></i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">, you might be thinking.<br /><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes that’s true, depending on the eyes. At
other times it can be a source of confusion and frustration. Why? Because
everyone sees from a different perspective and has their own opinion of what
works and what doesn’t.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve found this true in my own writing. From
critique groups to beta readers to feedback from contests to appointments at
writers’ conferences, I’ve gotten a plethora of comments on the same project.
Trying to please everyone, I spent years attempting to incorporate all the
differing suggestions. What I got for my efforts was a bucketful of
discouragement.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">So, what’s a writer to do? Isn’t feedback
important? Absolutely. That’s how we learn and grow. Hone our craft and polish
our prose. The key is in finding the right eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s face it. Not everyone will applaud what we
write. Maybe they don’t like our writing style. Maybe it’s not a genre they
enjoy—or understand. Or maybe the timing is wrong. I’ve found that some folks
will be hesitant—not wanting to be unkind—to give constructive criticism while
others will use their editorial machete to rip apart your work no matter what.
There will even be those who want to reword and rewrite your work in their own
voice.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Am I trying to discourage you from seeking advice?
Not at all. I’m only suggesting that you choose your critique partners
carefully and limit the amount of feedback you seek while you are writing your
story. Too much second-guessing will discourage you, destroy your confidence,
and keep you working on the same project for years to come.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Once you finish your manuscript, you will go back
through it a dozen times making your own changes. After all, good writing means
write, proof, edit, rewrite … rinse and repeat. Having input from those you
trust will go a long way in helping you present your best work, but in the end,
the story belongs to you.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">My best advice is to take the suggestions given
and weigh them carefully. If you feel they’re a good fit, use them. If not, put
them aside. You might end up using them another time.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What about you? Have you ever experienced the
too-many-eyes syndrome?<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@amandadalbjorn?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Amanda Dalbjörn</a><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/close-up-photo-of-persons-eye-fvInY-Gh7sc?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-8141318277893226762023-10-31T13:09:00.000-04:002023-10-31T13:09:02.692-04:00Brain Gym for Writers<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">By Candyce
Carden<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_IjnY-_GJegzMzCARIGOZLtz07m5jY-7Lkh3yGPlb-wt73CK19Jgqe0ViJr4NOS1L_xEFuWM67x_EN9KYWKdCbPTzIa5mDm8eYbhMfghI_TnY89biDMXp2l4JspgMTacu4C8o8ZGBEnT1SREU6oJJhzTkuVSUzLEgo7rptNuKmyjeS7mRzVwbKM3-rg/s218/Brain%20Gym%20-%20Amazon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="218" data-original-width="143" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_IjnY-_GJegzMzCARIGOZLtz07m5jY-7Lkh3yGPlb-wt73CK19Jgqe0ViJr4NOS1L_xEFuWM67x_EN9KYWKdCbPTzIa5mDm8eYbhMfghI_TnY89biDMXp2l4JspgMTacu4C8o8ZGBEnT1SREU6oJJhzTkuVSUzLEgo7rptNuKmyjeS7mRzVwbKM3-rg/w199-h239/Brain%20Gym%20-%20Amazon.jpg" width="199" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">A writer’s
brain grows sluggish with overuse. Stress further impedes optimum brain
function. When I hit the proverbial writing wall and can’t get around it, I
take my brain to the gym. The Brain Gym</span><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Symbol;">â</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">, that is. <br /><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Brain Gym
is based on Educational Kinesiology—the study of movement of the human body as
it relates to learning and expressing skills. The framework for Brain Gym is based
on simple movements and body positions to help integrate the flow of information
within the brain. These exercises boost brain function to greater efficiency.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dr. Paul
E. Dennison developed Brain Gym for children with language disabilities,<a href="file:///C:/Users/andre/Downloads/Brain%20Gym%20for%20Writers2.docx#_edn1" name="_ednref1" style="mso-endnote-id: edn1;" title=""><span class="MsoEndnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote;"><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><span class="MsoEndnoteReference"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">[1]</span></span><!--[endif]--></span></span></a>
but the activities can help many groups, even writers.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">When I was
in the classroom, I used Brain Gym with students during mandated testing. As
they test, children are required to sit still for long periods and focus on
teacher instructions. My students’ attitudes and attention improved after ten
minutes of these exercises.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now, the
movements do the same for me when I’m required to sit still and focus for long
periods. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The brain
functions in three dimensions: <b>laterality</b>, <b>focus</b>, and <b>centering</b>.
Superior brain function requires efficient connection across the brain’s
pathways.<a href="file:///C:/Users/andre/Downloads/Brain%20Gym%20for%20Writers2.docx#_edn2" name="_ednref2" style="mso-endnote-id: edn2;" title=""><span class="MsoEndnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote;"><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><span class="MsoEndnoteReference"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">[2]</span></span><!--[endif]--></span></span></a>
Stress and fatigue prevent the brain from sending information to both
hemispheres simultaneously. Brain Gym exercises help to fully activate all the
brain’s functions. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Brain’s
Three Dimensions and a Sample Exercise<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Laterality</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">. Laterality comprises the left and
right hemisphere of the brain. Within this dimension lies the potential for
bilateral integration, the ability to cross the central midline of the body. This
function allows us to process a linear, symbolic, or written code.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Movement:</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Cross
Crawl</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> –<i> accesses
both brain hemispheres; boosts reading comprehension</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">As
you lift your left knee, touch it with your right hand; then lift your right
knee and touch with your left hand. Continue alternating the movements, either
marching forward or in place. You can also do this sitting down. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Focus.
</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Focusing is the
ability to cross the participation midline, which separates the back and front
of the body and includes the back and frontal lobes of the brain. This skill
helps us express ourself and focus.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Movement:</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The
Foot Flex –</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> <i>back-front
brain integration; enhances expressive language skills<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sit
with one ankle resting on the opposite knee. Place fingertips at the beginning
and end of the calf muscle. Massage tight spots along the calf until they
“soften and melt,” flexing and pointing your foot. Repeat with the other leg.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Centering.
</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Centering is the
ability to cross the midline between the upper and lower body and the upper and
lower brain; in other words, the midbrain (emotional content) and cerebrum
(abstract thought). Staying centered banishes irrational fear, fight-or-flight
reactions and helps us express emotions.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Movement:</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The
Gravity Glider – relaxes the system and allows us to process information
rationally<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sit
with legs stretched out in front of you, one foot crossed over the other. Bend
forward and reach toward your feet with your hands. Sit up (inhaling) and bend
down again (exhaling), repeating 3 times. Switch your feet and repeat 3 more
times.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">You can
find more exercises and the science behind them in the book </span><a href="https://amzn.to/3FoIe3x"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Brain
Gym</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">. Let me know
if you try any of these movements, or please share what you do to activate your
tired brain. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Brain Gym</span><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Symbol;">â</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> is a
registered trademark of the Educational Kinesiology Foundation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p><div style="mso-element: endnote-list;"><hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" />
<!--[endif]-->
<div id="edn1" style="mso-element: endnote;">
<p class="MsoEndnoteText"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="file:///C:/Users/andre/Downloads/Brain%20Gym%20for%20Writers2.docx#_ednref1" name="_edn1" style="mso-endnote-id: edn1;" title=""><span class="MsoEndnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote;"><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><span class="MsoEndnoteReference"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">[1]</span></span><!--[endif]--></span></span></a> Paul
E. Dennison and Gail E. Dennison. <i>Brain Gym Teacher’s Edition. </i>Ventura:
Edu-Kinesthetics, Inc. 1994, 1.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
</div>
<div id="edn2" style="mso-element: endnote;">
<p class="MsoEndnoteText"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="file:///C:/Users/andre/Downloads/Brain%20Gym%20for%20Writers2.docx#_ednref2" name="_edn2" style="mso-endnote-id: edn2;" title=""><span class="MsoEndnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote;"><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><span class="MsoEndnoteReference"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">[2]</span></span><!--[endif]--></span></span></a>
Ibid, 2.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoEndnoteText"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></p><p class="MsoEndnoteText"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: medium;">Photo courtesy of Amazon.com. </span></o:p><a href="https://tinyurl.com/mw6meu3t"><span style="font-size: medium;">https://tinyurl.com/mw6meu3t</span></a></p>
<p class="MsoEndnoteText"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DLSJ80H2PcO43naOaFUqOJOa1VF7YzdVghpw8YD6y5DctrfMFe511x32WgB7ljq-MTjiDdIhIf6dFoDWJdfmU_C7rzw0s1zWBGDEAVlSIUZ5cpWo5KZ1iOqqTDw8c7tmtGB8oUXMpYDLwjolbeHGWuAH_xK_4x11LKzGNqo3B1rqH0M7790YE5tqeA/s350/Candyce%20Carden%202.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DLSJ80H2PcO43naOaFUqOJOa1VF7YzdVghpw8YD6y5DctrfMFe511x32WgB7ljq-MTjiDdIhIf6dFoDWJdfmU_C7rzw0s1zWBGDEAVlSIUZ5cpWo5KZ1iOqqTDw8c7tmtGB8oUXMpYDLwjolbeHGWuAH_xK_4x11LKzGNqo3B1rqH0M7790YE5tqeA/s320/Candyce%20Carden%202.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="background: white; border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;">Candyce Carden
is a writer, educator, and nature lover whose teaching experience ranges from
preschool to college. She’s written for a variety of magazines, devotionals,
and compilations. Currently fine-tuning a devotional with a beach setting,
Candyce and her husband divide time between north Georgia and Destin, Florida. <i>The
answer may not be at the beach, but should we not at least check?<br /><o:p></o:p></i></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoEndnoteText"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>
</div>
</div>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-22445737824068751652023-10-23T17:34:00.000-04:002023-10-23T17:34:42.701-04:00Write What You Know … Some of the Time<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">By Emily Golus<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZLvi2I696xzp1raoxPGPx_pTNibNjKUciuDCOgwy73mn65bKupEbEbaZUIo_lW9681QRwN4XXscbtpnAZOUJS5L484P7LSE6vpqZq5NqAKvGeRcWh3yYpf8L1BMUiY0rURsfPt5pJ724A7FHBmyoLpQrolfawr0odY1S6457ZgYhrryA_kwux4EnNA/s1080/Emily%20Golus%20(2)%2010-23.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZLvi2I696xzp1raoxPGPx_pTNibNjKUciuDCOgwy73mn65bKupEbEbaZUIo_lW9681QRwN4XXscbtpnAZOUJS5L484P7LSE6vpqZq5NqAKvGeRcWh3yYpf8L1BMUiY0rURsfPt5pJ724A7FHBmyoLpQrolfawr0odY1S6457ZgYhrryA_kwux4EnNA/s320/Emily%20Golus%20(2)%2010-23.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">I
have a confession: I have never, to my knowledge, been a forty-inch-tall goblin
criminal trapped in a pitch-black cavern.<br /> <o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;">And
yet in my most recent novel, <i>Crack the Stone</i>, I write about this
character in this situation, and infuse her story with many of my own
experiences.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;">Writers
are often told “write what you know,” and it’s good advice—sometimes. But
surely this rule can’t always apply to people who write fantasy, science
fiction, thrillers, or (gasp) murder mysteries. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;">There
are times when writing from your own life experience is crucial, and other times
when it’s not necessary. Here are a few guidelines to help you determine where
that line may be for your story.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Creative
Elements: Make them Up <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;">A
lot of what makes a novel interesting is the author’s inventive creativity. So
go ahead—make up your character’s quirks and backstory, invent a fictional
hometown, get crazy with your storylines, or even create a new kind of technology.
Ideally, you’ll draw from your observations of the world and people around you,
but all of these elements are fair game to improvise. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Head
Knowledge: Research<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;">If
your story involves real-world locations, careers, organizations, or
established methods for doing things, you’ll be happy to know there’s a wealth
of free information at your fingertips—but you’ll have to hunt for it. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;">DON’T
just rely on what you’ve seen recycled in other books or movies. If I drew my
knowledge of caverns from what I’d seen on TV, my novel’s settings would have
had broad, level floors with evenly spaced stalactites. Turns out television
caves are only portrayed that way because that’s the easiest way to dress up a
big, empty studio room. To really learn about my book’s cavern setting, I
started watching GoPro videos from spelunkers in real-world caves. Cave topography
is much more chaotic and random than it appears on TV—and thus far more
dangerous (and interesting!) for my heroine to navigate through.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;">Do
the research, and favor first-person accounts when you can. Read travel blogs
or reviews from people who’ve actually traveled to that city in Italy. Browse technical
manuals or watch the training videos your character would have likely
encountered during his education. The Internet is crammed with very specific
information for people in niche fields. If you can dig down and “eavesdrop” in
these places, you’ll be able to write intelligently about your subject.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Life
Knowledge: Consult an Expert <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes
research can give you a bunch of information, but not all the nuance. If you’re
dealing with a complex or sensitive topic, you may want to get someone who has
real-world experience to help you out.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg16fU756KywatChqBPCoN6uSfkSHTYNIhaPJQmr7QPwjcrSQRX-UF9CdZfCGvp2QqAJzKR0gGvrq-Hqx4DgUqfiSATLGxHo3babeR28kVhvoBtSmYcnQNqaJCcMTlxi0afuvHqjGyobFu0FjaRSatieEhvuOvMm-WilAqJui9bKRGrXnI_UdKuVDn6bQ/s2250/Emily%20Golus%2010-23.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2250" data-original-width="1410" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg16fU756KywatChqBPCoN6uSfkSHTYNIhaPJQmr7QPwjcrSQRX-UF9CdZfCGvp2QqAJzKR0gGvrq-Hqx4DgUqfiSATLGxHo3babeR28kVhvoBtSmYcnQNqaJCcMTlxi0afuvHqjGyobFu0FjaRSatieEhvuOvMm-WilAqJui9bKRGrXnI_UdKuVDn6bQ/w201-h337/Emily%20Golus%2010-23.jpeg" width="201" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">Culture
is one of these things. Part of <i>Crack the Stone</i> is set in a city
inspired by various places in North and West Africa. I did careful research to
determine what kind of technology the city would have, what food people would
eat, and how they would react to newcomers. But I also knew that culture can be
tricky, and subtle things that outsiders don’t notice can be a huge deal to
people within. (Consider the difference between calling someone’s child a
“little lamb” versus a “little pig.” Both are cute farm animals but have <i>very</i>
different cultural connotations.) <o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;">In
my case, I hired a sensitivity reader from Nigeria and asked her to alert me to
any unintentional faux-pas or inaccuracies, and to help me with Yoruba and Igbo
names. You can find a wealth of sensitivity readers online (you can start with
Fiverr.com) who represent a variety of cultures, and who can also give insight
on disabilities, family backgrounds, and other topics that require an insider’s
perspective to get right.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;">If a
sensitive topic is especially crucial to your story, consider watching
first-person interviews about it, or even conducting some interviews of your
own. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Heart
Knowledge: Write What You Know<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">There are some
topics that are just so crucial to your story that you really do have to rely
on your personal experience. <i>Crack the Stone</i> is a retelling of Victor Hugo’s
<i>Les Misérables</i>, which is a father-daughter story. I struggled in an
early draft to try to make my story work with a male goblin and a little human
girl. But at every step, I had to take my real-life experience as a mom of two
boys and try to filter it through “But how would a little girl act? How would a
father feel about this?” It was robbing my story of authenticity. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">But when I tweaked
the story to make my main character female and the child a little boy, it’s
like a faucet turned on. Research and creativity were not enough. I had to
write my motherhood experience from my heart, and that’s when the story came to
life.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes when you
start out you don’t know where the line is between head knowledge and heart
knowledge. But if you’re struggling to make your story feel authentic, try
changing it to fit your own experience and see if it works better. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><span style="font-size: large;">I
hope this guide helps you as you determine what you need to research and what
you need to know through experience. Happy writing, friends!<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><i>Photos courtesy of Emily Golus.</i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: AppleSystemUIFont;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLkeiqt33SomScC3is1zWrWUg44xbLFNcqoNRc3PuiqI5sWmrYpUIrjjzg6MBtANsjGTjLi2YTkO9oXhLXsWbzn1yz7MKnvh23WN5y8Wu2AVhtO9X-j6Zhj1nEgTM1keDQCOnww4yviG8112HGfe2T-hIUKLAmMn8fAbLlRxdzv31BaGRd6EkFQDfJ2w/s1280/Emily%20Golus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="853" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLkeiqt33SomScC3is1zWrWUg44xbLFNcqoNRc3PuiqI5sWmrYpUIrjjzg6MBtANsjGTjLi2YTkO9oXhLXsWbzn1yz7MKnvh23WN5y8Wu2AVhtO9X-j6Zhj1nEgTM1keDQCOnww4yviG8112HGfe2T-hIUKLAmMn8fAbLlRxdzv31BaGRd6EkFQDfJ2w/s320/Emily%20Golus.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Emily Golus is an award-winning fantasy author with nearly 20
years of professional writing experience. Golus aims to engage, inspire, and
show how small acts of courage and love can create meaningful change. Her books
feature diverse cultures, authentic characters, and cinematic fantasy settings.
Her first novel, <i>Escape to Vindor</i>, won the 2017 Selah Award for
Young Adult Fiction, and was followed by a sequel, <i>Mists of
Paracosmia. </i>Her newest book is <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C9JK781Y" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Crack the Stone</span></a></i>, a fantasy retelling of
Victor Hugo’s <i>Les<br /> Misérables.</i></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Golus lives in Greenville, SC, with her husband, Mike, who is her
greatest supporter. They have two active little boys and enjoy hiking, making
Thai food, and exploring small towns in the Carolinas. For Vindor book
news, visit <a href="https://www.worldofvindor.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d52c1f;">WorldofVindor.com</span></a> and <a href="https://www.emilygolusbooks.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d52c1f;">EmilyGolusBooks.com</span></a>, and follow her at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/worldofvindor/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d52c1f;">Instagram.com/WorldOfVindor</span></a>.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Lora; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-80897077159917250772023-10-16T11:45:00.000-04:002023-10-16T11:45:01.787-04:00Putting an End to Envy<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">By
Lori Stanley Roeleveld<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;">I was attending my second writers
conference, flying cross-country and eager to pitch my novel. This conference
had a prestigious novel-writing contest but, alas, my manuscript had not made
the finals. It was sobering, but it helped me see what I had to learn. I
planned to attend every workshop there that would help me improve my craft.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;">On the plane, I had to admit to God I
was worried that one particular struggle might distract me, ruining my conference.
Envy. Besides the validation of taking first place, the winner would walk away
with a big check and a book contract. I already knew it wouldn’t be me, so I
asked God to help me not envy whoever did win. I knew without His help, I’d
fall prey.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Immediately off the plane, I met a
young woman with whom I had an instant connection. By the time our shuttle
neared the conference, we were friends. That’s when someone in our minivan
recognized her as a finalist. God was already at work. We ran into each other
everywhere and each time, I liked her more. By the time she was, indeed,
announced as the winner, all I felt for her was joy. I could truly applaud her
win.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;">What God had shown me is that the more
we love someone, the easier it is to rejoice with them and not envy. Through
the years, when I’ve encountered writers whose work is just breathtaking or who
achieve an enviable goal, I have learned to pray for them. I ask God to give me
His heart for this writer and to fill me with His love. Sometimes, it takes a
lot of prayer because my heart can be stubborn, but God always changes me. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;">The writing-with-God life is hard
enough without envy but when we allow it to take root, writing can become
impossible. I’ve seen promising writers give up due to discouragement brought
on by comparison and envy. I’ve been the recipient of envy and can tell you
that it hurts. I suppose some take it as a compliment but for me, it just feels
like pain and loss of intimacy. Christian writers can share a unique camaraderie
and cheer one another on because we’re ultimately on the same team, but envy creates
division, drains energy, and lessens our effectiveness.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Develop a strategy for managing envy:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pray
for the other writer daily and ask God to give you His love for him or her.
Find ways to promote that author’s work.</span></span></li></ul><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Imagine
that when you indulge envy toward that writer you send small poison darts
causing him or her actual discomfort or pain. Remember that just as you would
never do something like that physically, you shouldn’t harbor poisonous
feelings that may also cause them emotional, spiritual, or mental harm.</span></span></li></ul><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;">There
are movies whose theme is envy, several that focus specifically on creative or
professional envy. Even in secular films, the person absorbed with envy is the
one who doesn’t fare well in the end. Choose one clip you can watch whenever
the temptation arises. I usually watch a scene from a flick that depicts Antonio
Salieri and his envy of Mozart. In the film, Salieri’s love of God and love of
music were both negatively impacted by his envy. Watching this brings me right
back to a positive headspace where I can reject envy as bad for everyone,
including me.</span></span></li></ul><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Envy is a creativity snag, an energy
drain, and a sin we can avoid in Christ. When temptation arises, hit your
knees, and take the escape God provides.</span></span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-indent: 0px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@belart84?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-indent: 0px; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Artem Beliaikin</a><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-indent: 0px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/ze_IO-_tcjw?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-indent: 0px; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 200%;"></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPa8vbV8AWnR_0KnslhL3Au74B_wepd9w1d62brW697yodeUYuli9TIMeKJIXsP2uW7ZMIolLsXXyLay2dhJjM-Ol-e_yTftxT0oW6Pz4nBMf7FANKQcTEpCf7bYwCXha_nuzUIwGdK9liHBNU4A2qai-BWtJb89de8sOxEVsqxkrAtLDQ_gEegDYvkw/s446/Lori%20Roeleveld%20Headshot%203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="376" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPa8vbV8AWnR_0KnslhL3Au74B_wepd9w1d62brW697yodeUYuli9TIMeKJIXsP2uW7ZMIolLsXXyLay2dhJjM-Ol-e_yTftxT0oW6Pz4nBMf7FANKQcTEpCf7bYwCXha_nuzUIwGdK9liHBNU4A2qai-BWtJb89de8sOxEVsqxkrAtLDQ_gEegDYvkw/s320/Lori%20Roeleveld%20Headshot%203.jpg" width="270" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">Lori Stanley Roeleveld is a professional coach, writer,
speaker, and disturber of hobbits. She’s authored five award-winning books,
with a sixth, <i>Graceful Influence</i>, due to release from Our Daily Bread
publishing and contributed to twelve+ compilations. She is owner of </span><a href="https://www.takeheartcoachingandfreelance.com/"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">Take Heart! Coaching and
Freelance</span></a><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">. Though she has degrees in Psychology and Biblical Studies,
Lori learned the most from studying her Bible in life’s trenches. She speaks
her mind at </span><a href="http://www.loriroeleveld.com/"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">www.loriroeleveld.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; line-height: 107%;">. <br /><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-79625099653994873572023-10-09T20:05:00.000-04:002023-10-09T20:05:14.625-04:00Are You a Candidate for Binge-Writing?<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">By DiAnn Mills<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4ByNRTQPygv0CfNV3HUxRyzwl-rs_AJLrp_RDAPWEyfU6MBWDI8QLb_H8kVsqWRO3RLG0Bw2rYeHgzhyreBOn2R3RO73yWDQvgclItt4VwJWfRFnOTQWuCXNj0x46aiGJ-d0FTObAnCbBinagSD6yq062yXG5UyA_MQ-9zBoeLZ5KYCW27Q4WfKpMA/s571/Woman%20at%20computer%202%20-%20Photo%20by%20JESHOOTS.COM%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="571" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4ByNRTQPygv0CfNV3HUxRyzwl-rs_AJLrp_RDAPWEyfU6MBWDI8QLb_H8kVsqWRO3RLG0Bw2rYeHgzhyreBOn2R3RO73yWDQvgclItt4VwJWfRFnOTQWuCXNj0x46aiGJ-d0FTObAnCbBinagSD6yq062yXG5UyA_MQ-9zBoeLZ5KYCW27Q4WfKpMA/s320/Woman%20at%20computer%202%20-%20Photo%20by%20JESHOOTS.COM%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Are you a
candidate for binge-writing? Does the thought of adding thousands of words to your
manuscript thrill you from head to toe? Maybe you have no clue what binge-writing
means or how it could help you move forward with your dreams and goals.</span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Many reasons can motivate
us to take on the challenge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">We
need to jump-start our writing.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">A
deadline approaches us.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Our
writing group convinces us the concept would be fun.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">The
idea is simply appealing. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">You’re
reading this and decide to try it.</span></li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">How does a writer
prepare for this race? Guidelines maximize the binge-writing experience, but don’t
hesitate to personalize the process to fit your needs and work preferences.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Time Guidelines<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Most binge-writing
times are weekends, from Friday evening to Sunday evening. That’s 48 hours.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Sleep
6 hours on Friday and Saturday nights—use an alarm. – 12 hours</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Shower
(optional), brush teeth, comb hair, brew coffee. – 1 hour</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Ladies
skip the makeup.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Guys
skip the shave.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Use
microwaveable meals, eat at your desk, bio-breaks. – 1 hour</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Wear
pajamas.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Hire
someone to watch and feed the dog, kids, & spouse.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">No
time stealers: social media, music, conversation, texts, or phone.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Approximate
hours of fingers to the keyboard – 34 hours</span> </li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Prep<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Develop a great
attitude.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Self-talk is vital
for success.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Encourage any who
are joining you.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Make sure everyone
in your immediate family and friends knows you are serious about </span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">binge-writing.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Conduct research
ahead of time.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Establish a
wordcount.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Stay hydrated.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Make sure you’re
in shape.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Grind coffee beans
and measure into sealed containers. Determine to drink it black. No time for
sugar, cream, or stirring.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">No pizza delivery.
That means answering the door, chatting, etc.</span></li></ul><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">During the Binge<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Focus.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Turn off Wi-Fi—No
distractions.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Close your eyes if
necessary. Edits can be fixed later.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Exceed all your expectations.</span></li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">After<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Sleep.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Shower and change
your clothes.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Celebrate.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Journal what you
learned for the next binge-writing. </span></li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Together we can
have a super-successful, powerful, and productive binge-writing experience. Are
you ready to schedule yours?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Photo courtesy of Unsplash and JESHOOTS.COM.</span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-shadow: yes; mso-padding-alt: 31.0pt 31.0pt 31.0pt 31.0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="border: none;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWLIqoNrBkS5_MQ-2hMfANt389shpTALTxd92VO7O4Hz0tbERXwsZkAuKge7qKZvxQ520eD9ed_k0kNOU--FOUbRtsbIuj0WgARtJovZTqWGXgKqNgcC7noSpLUa7CXbsftgbD_dj_zsREnjpln3Pa3s3FKk2553OepQCc8syiahEOmKsxnycAdLFkVQ/s300/DiAnn%20Mills%207.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="240" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWLIqoNrBkS5_MQ-2hMfANt389shpTALTxd92VO7O4Hz0tbERXwsZkAuKge7qKZvxQ520eD9ed_k0kNOU--FOUbRtsbIuj0WgARtJovZTqWGXgKqNgcC7noSpLUa7CXbsftgbD_dj_zsREnjpln3Pa3s3FKk2553OepQCc8syiahEOmKsxnycAdLFkVQ/s1600/DiAnn%20Mills%207.jpeg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">DiAnn
Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an
adventure. She weaves memorable characters with unpredictable plots to create
action-packed, suspense-filled novels. DiAnn <span style="color: black;">believes
every breath of life is someone’s story, so why not capture those moments and
create a thrilling adventure? </span><span style="border: none; color: black;">Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA
bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; Golden Scroll awards; and been
finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and
Carol award contests.<br /> </span><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-border-shadow: yes; mso-padding-alt: 31.0pt 31.0pt 31.0pt 31.0pt;"><span style="border: none; color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-border-shadow: yes; mso-padding-alt: 31.0pt 31.0pt 31.0pt 31.0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="border: none; color: black;">DiAnn is a
founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of
Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, and
International Thriller Writers. She speaks to various groups and teaches
writing workshops around the country. She and her husband live in sunny
Houston, Texas. DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with
readers on: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/diannmills/"><span style="color: black;">Facebook</span></a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/diannmills"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Twitter</span></a></span><span style="border: none; color: black;">, </span><span style="border: none; color: black;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/diannmillsauthor/"><span style="color: black;">Instagram</span></a>,
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/diannmills/"><span style="color: black;">Pinterest</span></a>,
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/81639.DiAnn_Mills"><span style="color: black;">Goodreads</span></a>, <a href="https://www.bookbub.com/profile/diann-mills"><span style="color: black;">BookBub</span></a></span><span style="border: none; color: #002060;">, </span><span style="border: none; color: black;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/diannmills"><span style="color: black;">YouTube</span></a>,
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannmills/"><span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a>
or <a href="https://diannmills.com/"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">diannmills.com</span></a></span><span style="border: none; color: black;"> </span><span style="border: none; color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-58618473447180345992023-10-02T13:51:00.005-04:002023-10-02T13:57:00.985-04:00Writer, Break Out of the Box<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">By Andrea Merrell<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">In one of my recent posts, we talked about a writer’s
superpower. A God-given, natural ability. A talent. What you’re good at and
what comes easy to you.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZYhKG6q54CysszA4eWsdOUZLgLcucr8MUiwR2ly5_S5jI3J5KBj3EMekNKTYbP-Z3Z4GKMm6oGMAEGxoQWcs2Qk7jyghAWNJ-4Wk_fYk1RTKhgybLB1T9zRRw71TGJkDxhtf__-mReE9hqGh33NjV-T-GUIPi1hhyj6P9AbvOUDGuLf6uA4UyWMCeYg/s387/Box%20-%20Photo%20by%20Erda%20Estremera%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="257" data-original-width="387" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZYhKG6q54CysszA4eWsdOUZLgLcucr8MUiwR2ly5_S5jI3J5KBj3EMekNKTYbP-Z3Z4GKMm6oGMAEGxoQWcs2Qk7jyghAWNJ-4Wk_fYk1RTKhgybLB1T9zRRw71TGJkDxhtf__-mReE9hqGh33NjV-T-GUIPi1hhyj6P9AbvOUDGuLf6uA4UyWMCeYg/s320/Box%20-%20Photo%20by%20Erda%20Estremera%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">But after visiting with a number of writers at a recent
conference and having some very interesting conversations, let’s talk about
breaking out of the proverbial box—our tried and true comfort zone—and trying
something new.<br /><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">One lady was very excited because she was going to start doing
her own podcasts, something she never thought she could or would do. Another
was anxious to go home and start a critique group in her area. One very sharp
fellow said he never thought he would be good at anything but articles but after
attending a few classes and networking with some new friends, he announced he
was ready to try his hand at fiction.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Let’s face it, trying new things can be a bit scary, but God
is the Master Creator. He has placed creativity within each of us. When we set
personal limitations on ourselves, we limit what God can do in and through us.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">One writer says we need to step out and expose ourselves to
new people, places, and ideas—especially those of us who are introverts. Isaiah
54:2-3 says, </span><span class="text"><i><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;">Enlarge the place of your tent,</span></i></span><i><span style="line-height: 107%;"> <span class="text"><span style="background: white;">and let them stretch out the curtains of your
dwellings.</span></span> <span class="text"><span style="background: white;">Do not
spare.</span></span> <span class="text"><span style="background: white;">Lengthen
your cords,</span> and strengthen your stakes.</span></span> <span class="text"><span style="background: white;">For you shall expand to the right and
to the left</span></span></i><span class="text"><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"> (NKJV).<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="text"><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">In other words, make room for growth. Don’t create unnecessary
boundaries or underestimate yourself. When God calls us to do something—when He
plants that seed in our heart—He equips us.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="text"><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Do you have a dream? What is that one thing you’re itching to
try? Do you need a spiritual kick in the pants? I’ve had a few of those over
the years and trust me … the results are always worth the effort.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;">Go ahead. Break out of the box, and go for it. You’ll be glad
you did.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i>Photo courtesy of Unsplash and Erda Estremera. </i></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-88399325641721331272023-09-25T13:57:00.000-04:002023-09-25T13:57:56.312-04:00Editing Your First Five Pages<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">By
Katy Kauffman<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-1VDtEXsE4LhsUHzK5UYlFilThd4yDF9RG-7LGgakBpmFtdXQZsVumyFiL3TAqX-LXRwRa6tCr2ovyTwVnOUkhdo2Lx3VL91SPfPe9cHl4zfOmeafpFRNmHUBOeYX3pY_PS9ULHPCtJSXZ04WjjBsQyUeLv3WJ9r47kawTt7HiI2Q5Fp1fGsbeYurw/s3032/Five%20-%20Photo%20by%20Nick%20Fewings%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2021" data-original-width="3032" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-1VDtEXsE4LhsUHzK5UYlFilThd4yDF9RG-7LGgakBpmFtdXQZsVumyFiL3TAqX-LXRwRa6tCr2ovyTwVnOUkhdo2Lx3VL91SPfPe9cHl4zfOmeafpFRNmHUBOeYX3pY_PS9ULHPCtJSXZ04WjjBsQyUeLv3WJ9r47kawTt7HiI2Q5Fp1fGsbeYurw/s320/Five%20-%20Photo%20by%20Nick%20Fewings%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">They
need the wow factor. Once a potential buyer looks at the title of your book, the
cover, the back cover copy, and the Table of Contents, they’re likely to look
at your first five pages. If the first paragraph wows them, they’ll keep
reading. If the wow factor is missing, you may miss a possible sale.<br /> <o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">So
how can you maintain the wow factor of your first five pages and maximize the
appeal of your book? Here are five tips for editing the first five pages to
keep the wow factor going. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">Make sure you have written tight. <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cut unnecessary words
that distract the reader from the main point of each sentence and paragraph. Quantity
of words is not as important as quality. A short sentence can contain more punch
than a long one, and usually does. Ask yourself whether each word in a sentence
is needed and whether each sentence in a paragraph is playing an important
role. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">See if your paragraphs have a clear flow of thought. <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">I love to write from a
feeling of inspiration, but I always have to go back and see if my writing
follows a definite flow of thought. Make sure your first five pages don’t
meander off course. Meandering can frustrate the reader, and they may put your
book down.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">Make the first line of every paragraph
attention-grabbing. <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you read the first
line of every paragraph in your first five pages, would you buy your book?
Write these first lines with as much flare as you wrote the first sentence of
your book. You want to keep your reader interested and wanting to know more. Use
questions, statistics, new insights, and stories to start new paragraphs. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">See if you ended every paragraph with a mini-cliff
hanger. <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">You don’t have to get too
dramatic, but the end of each paragraph in your writing acts like a stepping
stone placed in front of the reader. Motivate them to “step” into the next
paragraph and keep reading. If you conclude a thought in a paragraph, do it with
such insight, pizzazz, and emotion that will make them want to keep reading to
see what you have to say next. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">Give them some takeaway—even at the beginning! <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">You want the reader to
come away from your book with amazing takeaway—helpful insights, encouraging
thoughts, answers to problems, and strategies to implement your ideas. Present
these things in such a way that they are inspired to take action. Write with
music, motivate with real-life stories, instruct the mind, and touch the heart.
Your whole book should have insights that they can take away with them, but
give them enough takeaway in the first five pages so that they see the
relevance of your book and look forward to what else you have to say. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">What
would you want to see in the first five pages of a book that has an intriguing
title? What elements would make you buy a nonfiction book? Tell us in the
comments below, and don’t forget the power of your first five pages. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><i> Photo courtesy of Unsplash and Nick Fewings.</i></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYgs7ODPqJr8buOUB6auJA6gGxSFeGxE4fjBeashUBh_hcSnpAHkytJUDyLBPIuf4Q5tjdv3gxv1TVkEhHuXBpnA_pZb-ol_qeiTAQHYjrPOuw_aBhBeXwdFtUpe7Kt0yTbq30eC4Qf6gIO7Ok-DEf-sGwYP7UA0bAWRcyBLCapZ1N8J-U9a_7IjSZA/s668/Katy%20Kauffman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="668" data-original-width="652" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYgs7ODPqJr8buOUB6auJA6gGxSFeGxE4fjBeashUBh_hcSnpAHkytJUDyLBPIuf4Q5tjdv3gxv1TVkEhHuXBpnA_pZb-ol_qeiTAQHYjrPOuw_aBhBeXwdFtUpe7Kt0yTbq30eC4Qf6gIO7Ok-DEf-sGwYP7UA0bAWRcyBLCapZ1N8J-U9a_7IjSZA/s320/Katy%20Kauffman.jpg" width="312" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">Katy Kauffman is an
award-winning author, an editor of </span><a href="http://lighthousebiblestudies.com/refresh-bible-study-magazine"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">Refresh
Bible Study Magazine</span></i></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">, and a co-founder of Lighthouse
Bible Studies. She has the privilege of working with writers and the Lighthouse
team to create Bible study compilations and magazine issues. She has a
newsletter for writers called </span><a href="https://lighthousebiblestudies.us11.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=d56d783b628cb25e0234a8678&id=d019f00321"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">The
Lighthouse Connection</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">, and she contributes to three blogs on
writing. Connect with Katy at </span><a href="http://www.lighthousebiblestudies.com/"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">www.lighthousebiblestudies.com</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"> and
on </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/KatyKauffmanAuthor"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">
and </span><a href="https://twitter.com/KatyKauffman28"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">Twitter</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;">.<br />
<o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-92031300117433425352023-09-18T13:43:00.000-04:002023-09-18T13:43:51.520-04:00Look Around the Room: Those Are Your Supporters<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">By Blythe Daniel<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCXXyJooY5Pa4rN3kgywrwVvd76V5jQ6CusoCeRRI0Xu4hKsqY9LYjd0ixpyUzgtKMFm4cMckndM6gkewBpsdV79i0cSWHH59gpex_-ix49mpLZiMG_vBrAMkOeQTXWn-Myh7u_sAj6Zib11_WP790zHBxprH0-cO9zqbcPFNEYojenxewuCVmkSa3g/s320/Writers%20Conference%207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCXXyJooY5Pa4rN3kgywrwVvd76V5jQ6CusoCeRRI0Xu4hKsqY9LYjd0ixpyUzgtKMFm4cMckndM6gkewBpsdV79i0cSWHH59gpex_-ix49mpLZiMG_vBrAMkOeQTXWn-Myh7u_sAj6Zib11_WP790zHBxprH0-cO9zqbcPFNEYojenxewuCVmkSa3g/s1600/Writers%20Conference%207.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">As a literary agent, I’ve seen a lot of book
launches. And as an author, I’ve launched a few books myself. What I’ve noticed
is that the people you are in a writing community with are the most likely to support
you through the entire book publishing process.<br /> <br />
<br />
When you are in a writers group, attend a conference, or are part of an online
writers group (yes, Zoom counts!), you are part of a community that acts like a
family supporting each other’s work. The friendship goes deeper than just
friends gathering—you are supporting one another’s dreams.<br />
<br />
With so many different options for writers these days, there are easy ways for
writers to connect to gain comraderies, sounding boards, and another pair of
eyes on your writing. Writers conferences give you the opportunity to get
feedback on your book idea. A critique group allows you to get feedback from
readers who will share with you areas you can polish or revise as you work to
complete your writing. Online groups also serve as a family who believe in you
and will most likely be the ones cheering you on as you launch your book.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">So look around the room. Do you feel alone in
your writing journey? Who are the people you can ask to be able to join their
group? Can you start a group in your home or online? <br />
<br />
The best part of being an author is writing with a community and releasing a
book with the help of your community. There are too many steps in the process
of both that, if you are alone, it is a hard path to walk. I have made some of
my best friends in community with other writers. Friends who get me and support
me and I support them. <br />
<br />
Not all of your close friends or family may even understand what you do as a
writer and know how best to support you. They can have good intentions, but
your writing friends bring a level of encouragement and help as you write and
then release your book. It’s not that we need validation, but we do like
affirmation that having a writing group can bring.<br />
<br />
I like to take pictures when I go to writers conferences because it reminds me
who is in my circle and whose circle I’m in. It can help you feel connected
when you follow up, pray for, or recall who you want to see succeed in
publishing their book. Another thing I like to do is create intentional times at
conferences to see friends and talk with them. Writer friends, clients, or editor
friends I work with. It’s one of the best ways to feel like you have your group
of people who understand you and you are investing in each other. <br />
<br />
Online groups are something that you can do from anywhere. Our agency gathers
as a group online and it’s a way for our authors to connect with each other and
see who all their supporters are.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">As you consider the chairs you’d like to see
filled in your actual living room, office, or favorite writing space, how will
you be intentional toward filling those chairs and being a part of others’
space?<br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="background: white; mso-cellspacing: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 100%;">
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<td style="padding: 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt;"></td>
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<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 3.75pt 3.75pt 3.75pt 3.75pt; width: 100.0%;" width="100%">
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTrZ6oFgxAGMM8JjzSix3M1iZLcUylcc9im8QoKbLBH-B5TO1TIEmHex8U7T6AKsXRpbDPfsMQryOa9M27OOHklvrmVB4zUh1tpcx-4AJfCOxywzAna4ZCCGD9IXkOXO3Iff9YBBoNQGyxUNJ7FldRoSPaAgaIk0OlymLlVVgQTU03ZiYL0YQOCGZRg/s440/Blythe%20Daniel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTrZ6oFgxAGMM8JjzSix3M1iZLcUylcc9im8QoKbLBH-B5TO1TIEmHex8U7T6AKsXRpbDPfsMQryOa9M27OOHklvrmVB4zUh1tpcx-4AJfCOxywzAna4ZCCGD9IXkOXO3Iff9YBBoNQGyxUNJ7FldRoSPaAgaIk0OlymLlVVgQTU03ZiYL0YQOCGZRg/s320/Blythe%20Daniel.jpg" width="309" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-color-alt: windowtext; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Blythe
Daniel is a literary agent, author, and marketer. Her agency markets books
through podcasts, blogs, launch teams and traditional media, and represents
adult and children’s non-fiction and adult and children's fiction. Blythe has
been the publicity director and marketing director for Harper Collins
Christian Publishing and has been a literary agent for 18 years. Blythe and
her mother, Dr. Helen McIntosh, co-authored <i>Mended: Restoring the Hearts of
Mothers and Daughters</i> (Harvest House) and <i>I Love You Mom: Cherished Word
Gifts from My Heart to Yours</i> (Tyndale). Blythe and her daughter Calyn
co-authored <i>Let’s Be Friends: A Tween Devotional on Finding and Keeping
Strong Friendships</i> (Harvest House). Blythe is married and lives in Colorado
with her family. <br /> </span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4216087585023599769.post-82523202796986411722023-09-11T11:53:00.000-04:002023-09-11T11:53:32.188-04:00The Trouble with To<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">By Denise
Loock<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZoOPlEBMa8BKMxY5v8j4uPH3QNZuXhWj3QVWem5bfF_wDU6w_pl1TQAnpDE6ph5X0CCl1ujTBvSPUa2YT7Qce-0f501UM6Pj8Dxzey8T4nzPatiWs0V37BuaP3Pn76_PR5qkqnO0ODVZEmkmNiQFUZWbE_LNgxgqBnWiVF_lPHkuL7j6iJc4Bb6XIDg/s464/Trouble%20-%20Photo%20by%20Nikhil%20Mitra%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="308" data-original-width="464" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZoOPlEBMa8BKMxY5v8j4uPH3QNZuXhWj3QVWem5bfF_wDU6w_pl1TQAnpDE6ph5X0CCl1ujTBvSPUa2YT7Qce-0f501UM6Pj8Dxzey8T4nzPatiWs0V37BuaP3Pn76_PR5qkqnO0ODVZEmkmNiQFUZWbE_LNgxgqBnWiVF_lPHkuL7j6iJc4Bb6XIDg/s320/Trouble%20-%20Photo%20by%20Nikhil%20Mitra%20on%20Unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">A
critique partner handed me a copy of the article I’d written. She had circled every
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to</i> with red ink. Most sentences had one
red ring or two or—dare I admit—three?</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">How could
I have missed all that repetition?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">Simple. Because
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to</i> has many functions, we use the
word so often it becomes invisible. For most words, <i>Merriam-Webster</i>
gives one or two usage examples. Under the first definition of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to</i>, M-W lists over forty examples. Seven
other definitions for the two-letter word are also given, each followed by ten
or more examples.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">So how
can we reduce our dependency on <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to</i>?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Minimize Use of Infinitives <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">An
infinitive is a verb form used as an adjective, adverb, or noun; it’s usually
preceded by the word <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to</i>. For example,
John didn’t want <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to wait</i> for the bus,
or I am too busy <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to go</i> to the movies
tonight. Many times, though, the infinitive can be eliminated with some
rearranging: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Movie night isn’t an option</i><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">. </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I’m
too busy.</i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes
the infinitive works well and should be left alone: “To be or not to be, that
is the question” and “I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him.” (Tampering
with Shakespeare is a crime, isn’t it?)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPtFF6a4YnI-yyl7cph8X2IEuzTY84w-tn3zv_mZkXos1sn033U6T00UYp5UaPqG3NX9FPrX2iOmiT0fPJorxqcqdDa_Iu-M4rkZ2zglL0HJn-wqoX2zkS2uBvdQ-ZMgM6GeuW3Z6bas6074CWyNJ_TPLZpsWSbyO4QNcgdsn1UL7TJB2wx23aG_L_zQ/s400/Computer%20-%20njaj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPtFF6a4YnI-yyl7cph8X2IEuzTY84w-tn3zv_mZkXos1sn033U6T00UYp5UaPqG3NX9FPrX2iOmiT0fPJorxqcqdDa_Iu-M4rkZ2zglL0HJn-wqoX2zkS2uBvdQ-ZMgM6GeuW3Z6bas6074CWyNJ_TPLZpsWSbyO4QNcgdsn1UL7TJB2wx23aG_L_zQ/s320/Computer%20-%20njaj.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Writers
can usually avoid the use of an infinitive as a subject: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">To wait for the bus is tiresome </i>becomes<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> I don’t like waiting for the bus</i>. A sentence can lose its beauty,
however, if you become tyrannical in your extermination. Would you choose <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">all humans make mistakes, but forgiving
others for their mistakes is divine</i> instead of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to err is human, to forgive divine</i>?</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">Search
for these infinitives in your manuscripts: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to
begin, to be, to go, to do, to speak</i>. Find ways to eliminate them. Oops! I
meant eliminate them when possible.<br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Avoid Multiple Verbs<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">Don’t
string verbs together like meat on a skewer. Consider this sentence: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">John is scheduled to emcee the banquet</i>. It
contains a verb phrase and an infinitive, but <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">emcee</i> is the crucial verb. Write <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">John will emcee the banquet.</i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">Another
example: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I believe the best person to do
the job to be John</i>. Makes your vision blur, right? Choose this instead: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">John’s the best person for the job.</i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Eliminate Prepositional Phrases<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">Prepositional
phrases help writers describe and explain, but use them wisely. In a first
draft, you might write <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Samantha wanted to
go to the game to see if Jodie was there with Bob</i>. Too many <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to</i>s. Possible revision: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Samantha wrote the game time on her
calendar. Would Jodie be there with Bob?</i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to</i> can be eliminated by using an
indirect object. Instead of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jamie handed the
package to her, </i>write <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jamie handed
her the package.</i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">A triple
elimination example:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">John intended to go to Ireland after he went to England.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">John scheduled his tour of England and Ireland.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Avoid Wordy Phrases <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">Wordiness
is a perpetual problem for writers, so be aware of pet phrases that clog your
sentences with unnecessary <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to</i>s:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">to begin with (first)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">due to the fact that (because)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">has the ability to or is able to (can)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">considered to be (may be)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">give the opportunity to (let, allow)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">in order to (so)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">is going to (will)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">As part
of your revision process, look for <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to. </i>The
exercise will tighten your work and <span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">hone your editing skills. Protect your manuscripts from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to-itis</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@nikhilmitra?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Nikhil Mitra</a><span style="background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/GcdIU1jxAN4?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: #f1f1f1; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; text-wrap: nowrap; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></p><p class="MsoNormal">Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net and Njaj</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background: white;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiYILwnD3rVoKmZWmjYex65D3O8tPuRsX_83m-nUOqP7jLuD1GW0obS9JV9f336qk7ZXqfwP1GRvnudJDBrWf7Y40whhBMbCUrdgCwGJb6_ExxkJE2ieRVAcDg7qTDpmhiFnNrG6YtCcGxeycuWsEZ5-YS3KenwTGtu3QCdAgFQtXeldEME05zTxE49w/s552/Denise%20Loock%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="341" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiYILwnD3rVoKmZWmjYex65D3O8tPuRsX_83m-nUOqP7jLuD1GW0obS9JV9f336qk7ZXqfwP1GRvnudJDBrWf7Y40whhBMbCUrdgCwGJb6_ExxkJE2ieRVAcDg7qTDpmhiFnNrG6YtCcGxeycuWsEZ5-YS3KenwTGtu3QCdAgFQtXeldEME05zTxE49w/s320/Denise%20Loock%202.jpg" width="198" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">Denise Loock
is the owner of <a href="https://lightningeditingservices.com/" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: purple; mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">Lightning
Editing Services</span></a><span style="background: white;">. As a freelance editor, she helps published and
unpublished writers create clean, concise, and compelling manuscripts that will
attract publishers and intrigue readers. She teaches Editing Devotionals
101 and Sentence Diagramming 101 for </span><a href="https://peninstitute.com/" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: purple; mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">The PEN Institute</span></a><span style="background: white;"> and is the director of </span><a href="https://penconeditors.com/" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: purple; mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">PENCON</span></a><span style="background: white;">, the only annual conference for Christian proofreaders and
editors.<br /></span><o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>Andrea Merrellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07886398056031430593noreply@blogger.com4