Networking

I've been really pleased with the Writers Group I now attend where I live. With a diverse set of people and various writing styles - the feedback I receive is invaluable. Plus we alert each other about markets and upcoming conferences.

What is difficult for me is when I have to read my story aloud. Ugh...something I have never mastered in my entire life - speaking in front of people. What makes it worse is I wrote the material and I know they are listening to give me a critique. So very personal and my goal is to be able to get through a 750 word article without my voice shaking, breathing without fainting and not racing through it so no one has to shout 'Slow down!"

One man asked me last week why I read so fast. "To get it over!"

So this group will not only help my writing improve, but help me become a speaker...maybe. The two professions go hand in hand so I look forward to the day I don't have to hide behind my characters and can read with confidence.

Secure the Fort! (And Remain Under God)

The book is now in print! My story "Silent Hero" can be found under the Marine Corps section. We were stationed in Quantico during a very difficult time in our marriage - the first two years. God has a way of sending people or situations into our lives when we most need them.

Lucy was very excited that it came out on the 4th of July! I can't wait to hold a copy in my hand and send it out to everyone I know in the military. I know it will be a real blessing.

A Second Helping

I have days where I decide that writing is not my thing - where I wait eagerly for the email to come that says my submission has been accepted. Some days - it is a futile waste - I would better spend my time cleaning the toilet. At church yesterday, I finally told the Lord that I was getting tired of waiting and again I whined that I must write horribly because it was the end of the month and I hadn't heard from an editor.

Than...I clicked one more time on my email and there was a surprise. My story for another Chicken Soup book is being considered - it will be a long wait to see if it makes the final cut - but it is in the running. I was thrilled. The story is one that would mean a great deal to me (and my husband) to be in print - one that hopefully will touch many others as it did me.

So I ride my high today but I know what lurks ahead - those stupid dark days where I doubt my passion to write and doubt what anyone says about it. So maybe I will look back to this day and once again remember this feeling - thank you Lord!