A Blast from the Past

I got another e-mail today from an editor from a mother's magazine.

What makes this note interesting is back in March of '07, I submitted a story for an anthology they were publishing. I didn't get in the book but evidently the editor read the story again - a year and a half later-- and asked permission of me to use it in their spring issue.

You never know! That's the one of the fun aspects of writing!

Back to the Basics

Yesterday, I was searching through my journals for an entry to submit to a place that wanted letters about waiting when I ran across my entry about when I first got a story accepted.

I was also reminded of that earlier joy and confusion about writing when a new attendee in my writers' group yesterday mentioned how confusing the submission process sounded to her and she didn't even know where to start.

I'd forgotten how easily we slip into false thinking that everyone knows what we're talking about. We throw out words like proposals, agents, WIP, submitting and forget how we had to forge through the simple act of writing a few lines to send in with our first submission. Or how to find where to submit!

A new writer sent me an e-mail recently telling me she'd sent some work to a place I suggested and it was accepted. I was thrilled for her but then read her submission letter and wanted to tell her that there is a better way to format her letter but didn't dare. We have very thin skin in the beginning and that I do remember.

We're all at different places with our writing. Sometimes the process is a jumble. I hope I never offend a new writer because of my enthusiasm for them to succeed. If I do--please tell me! But in the mean time, I hope I remember my own earlier needs and the ones ahead of me.

A good start to the week!

Doing the happy dance today! Got an email from Chicken Soup that another one of my stories is being considered for a book coming out soon! (Golf) As I wrote before, this is only round one, but I always feel good at this stage because even if it isn't selected, I know the story has a fighting chance to be accepted elsewhere.

Adding the Pearls

I love to shop. But I don’t shop for just anything—I love to shop for the best deal I can find—that perfect article of clothing that when I put it on and step in front of the mirror—I say, “Yes, this works!”

When I write a story, I shop in much the same way for the perfect market. I pull out my Writer’s Market guide and study the list of publications. I check the required word count, the method of submitting, the publisher’s current needs and when I find the one that I think is the perfect fit—I submit.

But sometimes my clothing, after I bring it home and wash it and put it on, doesn’t suit me as well as I thought it did in the store. The length is a little long and the color washes me out in my bedroom lighting. So I toss it to the back of my closet hoping maybe I’ll use it someday. And usually I do, when I have another occasion or I find an accessory that matches it.

Quite often, I want to toss my stories away when they aren’t accepted by what I thought was the perfect publication. I read the polite form letter thanking me for my time and telling me unfortunately my story doesn’t meet their current needs. So I dump it to the back of my files like I did my clothes in my closet.

What I’m not taking into consideration is maybe I only need to add another accessory to enhance my story to make it a perfect fit. Maybe a stronger opening would make the difference. Perhaps a better ending or a grammar check to polish it. Or it just might need to be sent to an entirely different place—but tossing it away or hiding it on my computer won’t get it published.

Do you have a good story that needs a little more accessorizing today? Can you tweak it a little more—have a writing partner take a quick look? Can you revamp a few paragraphs and give it another twist? You might just end up with another clip under your belt and the chance to say, “Yes, that worked!”

Have fun recycling today!

Michelle Sutton

Michelle Sutton is a writer, an editor and much more! Plus she gives away books on her site all the time! I've won several. Just check out the giveaways and leave a comment. The publisher sends you the book! Happy Sunday!

Buddies, Belks, Blessings

Just another little post today. I went shopping with a very good friend and we found ourselves in Belks-- they were having a 75% off sale plus an additional 50%. Now I only buy my clothing that way, so I broke down and purchased a few pieces that added up to $38.

I came home--went to the mailbox-- and lo and behold-- I found a check for $40 from a magazine article I'd submitted awhile ago plus the copy.

Now how's that for a blessing?

A Saturday Celebration!

Another Celebration!! Go Janna! I'm dancing here in Florida for you!!! Please check out her latest post:)

Dip that Toe!

Check out this link from today's So you wanna be published site about "I'd be published but I haven't submitted yet." Some very good reasons why polishing your writing is good but eventually you need to just test the water and send something out. Mary gave some good reasons why submitting--even if if means you get a rejection--makes you a writer.

Each month, I send out stories somewhere. Yes, I get many rejections but every now and then --some publisher decides what I wrote is what they need.

If you have something you think is good, why not make next week the week to send it?

Give Yourself a Pat

It’s Friday again in Florida. It’s the day I review what I’ve accomplished as a writer this past week. It’s the day I pat myself on the back for sticking with it even though I felt like throwing in the towel on more than one occassion. It’s the day I tell myself “it’s worth it,” and “you’re good enough.”

I don’t know how many rejections you received this week—either by e-mail or in your mail box outside—but today’s the day to let them go. File them deep inside that folder you’re keeping to remind yourself that you are at least submitting. Or better yet—delete that e-mail and toss the rest in the trash!

Today’s Friday and you can see the weekend ahead of you just waiting to give you that refreshing feeling that your brain needs so that when you and I sit down at our computers on Monday morning and stare at that blank sheet of paper or that chapter filled with editing needs—we’re ready.

I don’t know about you, but I accomplished a lot of writing this week. (pat…pat) I submitted one article and wrote copy for four pages on a Web site about something I knew nothing about! My book still languishes at the bottom of my screen, but I’ll be back Monday and it will get pushed to the top of my pile.

I made it through another week. I celebrated a success with one friend who got her book deal and I met a few new people on-line. Even yesterday, an old college roommate found me through my blog when she googled my name. Exciting things happen every day.

It’s Friday and I’m still a writer. How about you?

We're not in Kansas anymore, Dorothy

I owned a Christian bookstore for almost five years. During that time, I must have heard hundreds of people tell me how much they always wanted to own one. I still hear that comment.

They have no clue what really goes on behind closed bookstore doors. Inventorying, budgeting, ordering, decorating, worrying and praying. Keeping a ministry afloat on a shoestring budget is not a walk on the yellow brick road—or maybe it was because I was totally amazed how it did survive. (Thank you, God.)

Since becoming a writer, I’ve heard similar comments. “Oh, I’d love to sit on my porch all day and write.” “It must be so wonderful to know you will have a book on a shelf in a matter of months.”

This is where all the dedicated, committed writers groan together.

Writing is much more than journaling in a notebook in front of a picturesque lake. If a person thinks that’s all it is, then they’re in the wrong profession. Whether I write inspirational or secular—the process will be the same. I will need to write, edit, promote, then market and finally sell. Not necessarily in that order but the bigger picture says it takes a whole lot of hard work (along with prayer) just like any other profession.

I know there are writers who make it right away—but not many and not every day and I would still have to bet (if I did) they worked hard to get that manuscript edited, prepared and in the hands of a publisher.

There will be the writer who goes the distance and then there will be the writer who gives up because it’s too hard or not rewarding enough. If writing is your gift--persevere. Take care of yourself; but don’t let the dream die.

We may not be in Kansas anymore but we’re entering a whole new state.

Dreams Come True

A writer friend I met from my ACFW group and who lives in Florida had her dream come true this past weekend at the ACFW conference. Susan Sleeman was awarded a three-book contract from Barbour! Check here for the full story about how everyone kept it a secret for months and surprised her!

When you get a chance. . .

When I hear the words, "Honey, would you mind . . ." I cringe. I know--I shouldn't--but I have my goals, my writing schedule, my plans.

I'm blessed to be one of those writers whose husband leaves the house for eight hours a day and my daughter is married and lives on the other side of the country. At 7:30 in the morning, I eat my oatmeal, check my email and chunk out my blog time of a half hour or so.

But life as a writer isn't so simple. My mother called yesterday with her update and we talked for an hour. My daughter called to tell me about my grandson's latest accomplishment. And then my husband said before he left, "Would you mind doing this . . . "

I like to take my profession as a writer seriously but I also know that I need to consider my family's needs as well. This week, my husband asked me to set up a Web site for him--something I've never done before. But as I work my way through it, I find I'm learning new skills I might someday use myself when I get the call for a book deal and need to promote it. Writing copy helps shape my words in a whole new way.

When my daughter asks me to update her resume or look over a memo, I'm sharpening my writing skills even if I'm not submitting or editing my next book. And when my best friend calls and shares with me her personal needs, I not only pray for her but I deepen my understanding of how people respond in real situations which is essential for character development.

Being a full-time writer requires balance. Some days I juggle more tasks than a clown at a circus. Some days, I just need to turn off my phone, TV and Internet to write. But always, I'll be satisfied with whatever God chooses to bring into my life.

You know you're a writer when . . .

You know you’re a writer when you rush to Wal-Mart for the back-to-school sales and purchase a cartload of 4-for-$1.00 spiral bound notebooks.

You know you’re a writer when you watch the number on the counter of your blog more than you do the number on your scales.

You know you’re a writer when you choose your laptop over snacks as carry-on for a cross-country flight.

You know you’re a writer when you keep a pad and pen next to your bed and wake your husband every two hours with a noteworthy thought.

You know you’re a writer when you’d rather stroll through a Barnes and Nobles than the Prime Outlets in Orlando.

You know you’re a writer when you talk to your characters more than your best friend.

You know you’re really a writer when after you read this blog you go write something yourself.

How do you know you’re a writer?

Let's Celebrate

Take a look at that face. It's his first taste of something sweet. Can you even remember how that felt? Can you remember your joy when someone gave you something totally unexpected?

I remember when an editor accepted my first story. I screamed.

I remember when an article of mine was published on-line. I called my husband and daughter in to stand around the computer when it came onto the screen.

I remember when my first story appeared in a book in Barnes and Nobles. I won't tell you how badly I acted then.

But it was sweet. Just as sweet as a cupcake at a first birthday party.

I know the writing path is filled with many such occasions.

I hope you are ready to celebrate as I am with you.

The blog community is a blessing in so many ways. We can not only encourage each other, share tips about writing but be a participant in everyone's parties of success!!!

Who's party will we attend this week? Are you ready? Someone out there will send out that first submission; someone will get that first acceptance; or someone will finally hear from an agent or get a publisher to sit up and notice.

I've got my candles ready. Start writing your invitations because it could be you!

The Writer's Week in Review

For many full-time writers, Friday signifies the end of the workweek. Our family takes up the weekend days, and although we might be able to sneak in a few revisions or start a few lines for a new story--usually our full focus comes back on Monday.

But each Friday--as you've probably noticed--I like to evaluate what I've accomplished for the past week--a throw-back from my days as a counselor where I made daily and weekly goals with my clients.

GOAL #1 I finished reading and editing my hard copy of my manuscript. Whew. Now today I plan to put it together in a better looking package.

GOAL #2 I had planned to transcribe more writer interviews and didn't get it done due to wanting to finish goal one. Will do one today.

How about you? Can you check off some concrete goals that moved you forward in your writing this week? Were they too big and maybe need to be broken down into manageable chunks? Are they doable with what you have to work with? Do you have the necessary means, information or time to achieve them?

Think about next week and what changes you may have to make as a writer to accomplish the next step in your pursuit to getting published for the first time or the next time.

Tomorrow I will be posting a blog about blogging and what I've discovered over the past few months. I've encouraged many writer friends to start one and I wanted to share why and some of the encouraging aspects of doing so.

Waiting

Yesterday on So You Wanna Be Published Eva Marie Everson wrote an inspiring article on Waiting.

It made me think of some times in my own life and how so much of it is filled with waiting.

I waited until I was finally old enough to flee a home filled with turmoil. Thankfully, I found my loving husband when I was twenty-two.

I waited two years through a multitude of embarrassing and frustrating tests to get pregnant. In 1984, I held my child in my arms for the first time.

I waited a year for the owners of a Christian bookstore to sell it to my partners and I. They did--for one dollar.

I waited for my daughter to find someone as wonderful as her father to marry. In 2006, she married a boy she met at Bible college.

I waited for my first submission to be accepted. When the email came, I knew my life had changed. Again.

Today I wait again for an agent to either love my manuscript or pass on it.

But there is a common thread that runs through all these waiting moments in my life.

What relief that God already knows the beginning, the middle and the end--and in the end--He is the only one I need to wait on.


"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint"(Isaiah 40:31).

Blog Bopping

If you get a chance, pop over to Bobbie's heart wrenching story about the time she chose abortion as an option.

Check out Heidi's very funny post about life in Asia.

And Angie, our resident Gumbo Writer, has created a new format for her blog posts!

After reading all those stories-- then you can feast your eyes on Joanne's treat!

What's up Wednesday!

Right after I posted yesterday about having thick skin, I opened my email and found a rejection letter from Chicken Soup. To be honest--I knew I wouldn't get into that book as it was the cancer one and the story I sent didn't exactly meet their guidelines. So it was one of those okay rejections.(I don't get those kind too often, unfortunately.)

If you want to get into Chicken Soup though, you have to send and send and send some more to every book you might possibly have a story. I have two stories coming out in the Empty Nester one next month and a few more possibles in some future books. They have a three step process so you never really know if you made it until close to the actual publishing date which could be a year after submitting.

I also took a good look at what I accomplished this week so far in my goals. Making good headway with my hard copy revisions. I'm reading out loud three chapters a day and making the changes.

And finally--an update on my one and only query. Nothing yet as there were others before mine to review as per the agent.

How's your week going so far? Are you achieving the goals you set for yourself on Monday? Have you written a new story to submit or polished up an old one to recirculate? Have you finally called yourself a writer and taken the plunge to do something about it this week?

I can't wait to hear how this week is shaping up for you! Be encouraged!

My Baby Can Take It

One of the first rules of being a writer is to grow a thick skin.

I remember one of my first writers groups I attended. I was scared to death. Here I was sitting with people who were writing books! I'd only written a few articles.

And then the critique time started.

Ugh.

I had to read my offering out loud. In front of everyone.

I thought I'd cry as my voice shook over each word on the page. But the worst part came after I finished.

They didn't get it.

Thankfully, a very sweet lady reached for the copy I held in my hand and asked if she could take it home and email me some suggestions. A buoy in an ocean.

I have not forgotten both of those feelings--the let down and the gratitude. Later, after I could breathe again, I realized the other writers were trying to be helpful and as I considered some of their suggestions--they had been correct. But my skin was still a little too thin.

I think having a good critique partner or group where you can share is essential. Sure--my husband listens patiently when I make him sit still long enough and read him a page or too. "It's wonderful!" he always says--no matter what.

That's not what I need nor is it all that helpful.

But still--there is something about asking another writer to look at your work. Your masterpiece--your baby.

I'm working this week on getting my book out to my friend to read. She's an avid reader but not a writer. But she's honest. Already I feel that fear creeping through my heart--what if she hates it and I did all this work!!!

Breathe Terri.

. . . the rest of the story.

I wrote a piece of my story about my path to writing in the post below but because of one comment--I feel the need to share the rest of the story.

Fifteen. I counted fifteen journals not including two half-filled ones buried in my dresser drawer and another one reserved for my devotions. My oldest diary dated back to seventh grade when I needed a private place to record my unrequited crushes. Although I started writing at an early age, it wasn’t until the blessing of an unusual friendship that I gained the courage to call myself a writer.

Lori and I met online with five other women at a Christian website for stay-at-home mothers. From counselor to Christian bookstore owner, I loved working with people, but the day came when I longed to spend my days with my daughter who had grown into a teenager despite me. We lived in a rural area so the opportunity to meet mothers was limited. I finally searched the Internet and discovered a group of ladies who also had chosen to stay at home with their children.

“We’re calling you dependable Lori – because you always remember to pray for us no matter what you’re doing,” Wendy, a mother in our group, wrote from Canada. Lori encouraged each of us through her emails to be the best mother possible. Although we six ladies grew closer with each subsequent year, I never shared with them my desire to write. I considered writing a hobby – nothing more.

Two years into our friendship, my husband took a job in Florida. We packed our belongings to start a new life there. I obtained employment as a social worker in a nursing home to help with growing finances. After six months of many sleepless nights, I handed my supervisor my notice. “I’m so sorry I have to quit but I can’t deal with the all the deaths and sorrow.” She hugged me goodbye as I wished the job had been God’s plan for me.

With my husband’s support, I turned to Real Estate and studied for my license hoping I was more suited to sales than dying people. Lori and the other ladies cheered me on but still I wasn’t happy. Homes sold faster than they came on the market but I was more concerned with witnessing opportunities than earning big commissions.

Throughout all my career changes, Lori offered a compassionate ear. “Keep praying about what God wants you to do.” She encouraged me even after she received a diagnosis of cancer that defied all the usual treatments. Brokenhearted, our group rallied around her until we found a way to visit her in Baltimore a month before she died. I knew the night her sister called to tell me Lori had entered heaven, I would write her story.

Months later, I wrote Yellow Flowers, a testimony about a young mother who touched the lives of many through her persevering faith. Ignorant of publishing protocols, I submitted the article to the only place I hoped would consider it—the magazine that hosted our stay-at-home mother’s site.

They accepted it.

The moment the email appeared on my screen, I knew all those years scribbling in my journals, and all those nights pounding a typewriter …had been part of God’s bigger plan to help me encourage others through Lori’s story.

My friend’s ceaseless commitment to God and to our group forced me to take a hard look at God’s plan for my own life. One evening, my husband suggested I stop messing around and find my passion. My real estate career had dwindled alongside my feelings about it. Since we were more financially secure, I no longer had to work outside the home. He set down the book he was reading and turned toward me. “What about your writing?” he asked.

Doubt burned my cheeks. I ached to share my stories. But how could I turn my scribbling into a career? I had only one story to my credit. Then I remembered how I felt after I mailed copies of Lori’s story to her husband and two young children. The possibilities to serve the Lord and reach others through the written word seemed endless.

I called my broker the next day to give my notice.

After three years, I still battle doubt each time I click ‘send’ for a new submission. But I have no doubt when I consider how my journey into writing began. It didn’t start on the porch that night with my husband’s gentle nudging…nor did it begin at the age of eight when I penned my first poem to my mother. I know for certain my writing took flight the moment God placed a faithful friend into my life.

Fueling your passion

A little over three years ago, my husband told me to find a job I could get passionate about. I'd been a mental health counselor for seventeen years, owned a Christian bookstore for five and now I was giving real estate a whirl--but hated it.

"I want to write," I said, knowing as soon as the words left my mouth that I sounded as delusional as some of my ex-clients.

"Then do it."

If you look in my closet, you'll find a stack of diaries dating back to when I turned thirteen. My mother gave me my first five-year one that Christmas. Since then I've journaled every major and not-so-major event in my life.

But had I found my passion?

When I handed in my resignation from my counseling job--I counted down the days. When I sold the Christian bookstore, I knew it was time to move on. But if someone told me I could never write again--it would crush me.

Have you found your passion?

Or are you like I was--dabbling in the diaries--but afraid to speak the words, "I want to be a writer."

I hope today is your day.

Sixteen and counting...

Another Sunday. Had a great sermon, a good meal afterward with new friends, and even managed to vacuum my car.

And it is only 3:13.

I start thinking about next week and how I'm going to best use my time. I still have some pages of my romance book to print off and edit. (I always pick up so many mistakes when I hold a print version in my hands.) I have a boatload of interviews to transcribe that I did at the ICRS.

And then there is that part of me that feels frozen. A bit stuck. And I know that word GOAL looms on the horizon. How many hours do I have left to commit? Sixteen.

3:19.

What is my writing plan for next week?

What's yours?

A little Help from My friends!

Elaine! Thank you so much for showing me how to do this!!! I never knew what that button up top meant. Hmmm, what else am I missing?

A golf widow's thoughts

Ok--so periodically I'll write a post and then something else will pop into my brain--kind of like that promo stuff at the end of a good book trying to get you to read the next one.

It also helps when the husband gets THE CALL (to play golf that is) and leaves me to fight the Publix crowds myself while I buy our monthly groceries.

I have plenty of free thinking time. It doesn't take that much brain power to pick out grapes.

Anyways, I wanted to point more of you over to Janna's blog called Something She Wrote.

This is when I admit to a lack of computer savvy.(and is that word spelled right??) I have absolutely no clue how to put the HTML so that it shows up as a name and not the link. I once asked someone how to do it and after three emails and me becoming more stupid as we went--she gave up.

So I put the link to this fabulous site in the title. (Clever, huh?)

Janna is an honest writer who shares with all of us her ups and downs and even the count of her rejections. Sometimes we need that if only to remember we are not alone!!

So if you haven't been over there--please slide right on and check it out. But if you have some compassion and know how to explain stuff in an easy-to-understand fashion--pleeeeaaaase tell me how to link the way I'd like to! It really might make my blogs come up to this century.

Keep on Truckin'

A young man I have known for many years moved here a few days ago. Within a day, he showed up at my house. He'd brought a good friend with him to help him move down from the rural north and soon they were both lounging on my family room couch.

"What's there to do around here?"they asked.

Now I live twenty miles from Orlando. Need I say more?

Sometimes when I sit down at my computer, I ask the same question.

But not often. Part of writing includes finding new markets, writing in my blog, editing old stories, reading a book from a new author to see their style, but mostly--taking new steps.

Yesterday, Angie Ledbetter who comments on my blog quite often said something I loved:

After all, that's what all writers ultimately must do -- Ignore the rules and advice and keep on truckin', listening to our own inner selves!!

What great advice! Sometimes we need to be creative and push forward and try something new whether it be in our writing style,where we submit or attending a new writers' group.

I hope this next week we all spread our wings a little more and find that new excitement in our writing!

The long and winding road

I had a dream last night that I was in a car racing uncontrollably backwards. My feet couldn't find the brakes and the steering wheel was missing.

Sometimes our writing careers feel like that moment in the car--rushing in reverse. No matter how many queries or submissions we send out--they all come back.

On Monday, I asked everyone who reads this blog to write down a goal for the week.I did too. Do you want to know why? So that when we feel like we are going in the wrong direction, we have a marker that tells us clearly we aren't.

I met my goal this week--I compiled and sent out a query to an agent. I can place a big check mark next to it-DONE! I really did move forward in this maze called the road to getting a book published.

Now I might have to drive that same road again next week--but I will be more familiar with it and more confident--there will be landmarks I'll recognize despite a few more potholes. But with a little perseverance, I might very well turn the corner and discover that great big blue ocean at the top of my page or one of Joanne's cute cafes. (If you haven't seen her pictures--check out Whole Latte Life.)

On any trip, there will always be those unexpected flat tires, gas fill ups and roadside rests. So it is with the writer's road. I've driven an interesting one this week--how about you?

Slipping and sliding

I wrestled to write this post this morning.

Still am.

But as a writer-in-progress, I promised myself I'd write about the upward climb to my goals as well as the slip on the path or the tumble back down to the ground or the time I reached for the branch and it broke.

Are you following me?

There are the days when I get that letter in the mail or the call or the great email and then there are those days when I feel about two-inches tall or really really dumb and I doubt my already bruised ego can take another rejection.

I think I'm there. But the good news is I know it won't last long because it never does. When I find myself struggling with the feelings of being an inadequate writer--it's time to step back and remember why I'm doing it and who I'm doing it for. Certainly not me.

I didn't get on this path because I wanted to give myself any glory--I write because I hope to inspire people and point them toward God. Sometimes that will happen, other times, when I rush ahead or choose the wrong words or place to send--it won't.

But none of my efforts are wasted. Each time I mess up, I learn something that prepares me for the next effort.

Okay--so I'm climbing again--see you on the next mountaintop!

Still Counting

Today's my wedding anniversary.

Thirty-one years ago, I said yes to the man who I would eventually share not only the mountaintops but the valleys as well.

We met in the most unlikely of places--a redneck bar called the "Bucket of Blood." I was finishing college and he had just been discharged from the Marine Corps. My mother had warned me about these places but oh the wonder of youth.

I enjoyed listening and dancing to any bands my friends and I could get to within a decent driving radius. That night, I'd convinced my sisters and a friend to stop there to listen to some old rock and roll.

He didn't ask me to dance. He swept my younger sister across the crowded dance floor while I trailed behind his lanky friend.

The following Saturday night, I made sure when I saw him pass by my table--he'd notice me. I'm still surprised he did. When he pulled me to floor and never left my side the rest of the evening, I knew I'd found the one.

He promised he'd call me for a real date. The next day--I broke off with the man I'd been dating for two years and waited for that call.

Two weeks later--he kept his promise.

After a whirlwind three months, he offered me his heart and a marriage proposal.

Six months later, I walked into the arms of a man who has never let me go. And I thank God each day for him.

Sent!

At 11.56 AM, after much prayer and worry and my husband telling me to 'just do it'--I sent my information and request to an agent. Several friends assured me what I already thought about this first choice as an agency--that they are satisfied and happy with it.

So now I join the ranks of those of you who are pursuing an agent to help get your book out there in the marketplace. How many more requests will I have to send out? Will I be whining in two months when the rejections start trickling in?

Probably all of the above--but I feel good about trying. And in the end--that's all we can do, isn't it?

And now on to other projects. Whew.

Yeehaa!

I decluttered my office yesterday.

With stacks of file folders, writer's magazines and pages of scrap-printed paper burying my desk--I knew the time had come. My room to be creative looked more like a rodeo and the bull won.

The final result? I sat at my desk with two small folders, a computer and an open notebook and I accomplished more than I had in a long time. Sometimes it takes a little work to get the work we need done.

What's cluttering up your life and keeping you from accomplishing your writing goals? Do you need to toss away some of the stuff that is dragging you down--maybe the voice in your head telling you that you aren't good enough or no one will ever want to read your words anyway? Why bother?

Today when you go to your area and sit your seat in the chair and stare at that empty screen--think about what is slowing you down from doing what you love.

Now if I could only pen the bull from the rest of my house.

Goal Roll Call

Many of you bloggers out there--have stated your writing goals for this week. What an encouragement you are for me and others who are trying to wade through this process to publication or getting an agent or finishing a manuscript! Keep it up!
This Week's GOAL ROLL CALL:

Donna:trying to push through the middle of her book and get back on track with her 1000 words a day!

Karen: Resubmitting an article that she revised last week.

Vickie: Trying to find new ways to market her poetry book -- any suggestions anyone?
She is also working on finishing her devotional.

Joanne: Working on some deep revisions this week.

Renee': Finishing up some revision--almost done! What's the next step?

Please be praying for each other as we try to accomplish these goals this week. There will be tons of distractions and interruptions but if we keep at it--by Friday--we'll feel even better!

It's only cardboard

We have a new week starting tomorrow for us as writers. Some of us will gather excuses like eggs at an Easter egg hunt about why they can't do any writing. Some of us will make our list of goals and post it above our messy desk. Some of us will go to bed tonight dreaming of the way we will bring our blank paper alive.

What kind of writer are you?

I hope this is the week you get serious about it. I hope this is the week you see your writings and scribblings and stories as a gift from God.

I hope this is the week you take a giant step forward and maybe tear a corner out of the box and stick your foot out. It won't fall off. I promise.

A few months back when my husband was still unemployed, I dragged him to Toastmasters with me. I'm the person who has not stood in front of a group of people since Speech 101. But that still small voice inside me said, " Go do it. It might come in handy." A few speeches later, a writers group in a bordering town asked me to speak. Guess what? I was thankful for sticking that toe out.

So when you stare at your computer screen tomorrow--think BIG!

What is your box? What is taping you in? Hope to hear from you!

Digging in to more than ice cream

Church is over. I whipped up some potatoes and turkey kielbasi and reheated some leftover carrots. And then my husband announced he is going golfing. I kissed him goodbye--enjoy your torture in the 93 degree plus weather--and got my bowl of yogurt ice cream out topped with marshmallows and whipped cream. Then I pulled out my latest Writer magazine for some good reading.

That latest about five minutes.

I have my pile of work all set to begin tomorrow morning but my four hours of alone time stretches before me like the grand buffet at the Golden Corral.

Why not start digging in today?

Here's what I hope to work on this week: According to the Literary agency I've selected for the moment.

Guidelines for Your Fiction Proposal

Your fiction proposal should include the following items:
Cover Letter
Proposal cover page
One-page "sell sheet"
Biographical sketch
Story synopsis
Market analysis
Competitive analysis
Marketing strategies (if any)
History of the manuscript (if any)
The First Three Chapters

Okay--I have a sample One-page, my writer's resume, and a partial synopsis---It's a place to begin.

A few of you out there told me what you want to work on next week. I hope it is easier and way more fun than this but I also know that when I get through this-- I will feel very pleased that I did it.

Maybe.

The Party's Over

I loved writing my book. I loved thinking up plot lines, characters and settings. I could do anything I wanted with it. Slash a few paragraphs--maybe a whole chapter.

Well, the party's over.

I had originally planned to submit it myself but the more I browsed publication houses, the more I think maybe going the way of an agent is better. Maybe--the jury is still out. That's why I had to clean up the leftover pizza boxes, turn off the music and pick up the streamers.

I've managed to save a few websites of literary agencies I would use should I ever decide to go that route. I pulled one up today and took a long look at the submission requirements.

Okay. I have my work cut out for me.

But my rational is that if I do all this paperwork, I may be able to use it elsewhere like at a conference or if I self-submit so why not grit my teeth and do it?

(Is there an Easy Button somewhere for this?)

That's where this whole post is going. I'm going to start the process next week. My pile of references and printouts sit next to me. Is there any drier reading than proposals and synopses?

Pray for me. Pray hard--as you might hear some screaming next week.

My great week news

Here's my good news today. I know! I still have another day for writing and goals and good things in the mailbox!

But I couldn't wait.

I got a free book in the mail today--actually UPS--I won it on Shoutlife.

I got a check in the mail--actually it was the insurance check from an accident I was in a month ago. But hey--good news is good news.

Now--for the very best news of all. I've been working to finish this goal all week and tonight I left my husband to snore on the couch while I snuck(is that even a word?) back into my office. (you can do that when you don't have kids anymore to make you feel guilty.)

I finished my edits on one of my manuscripts!!

What this means is I can take it to Kinkos next week, send it to a friend to read, and start working on a proposal. (UGH! I will be begging for help on that one!) But I also found a place I want to submit it to that takes manuscripts without an agent. That was a God-send as well.

So I am already setting some new goals for next week. And I am excited. Hope you are getting that way too!

Do something right now--pull out a pad and write down two goals for next week. If you want to post them here-- please do! If we keep each other accountable--that phone call will come, the email will arrive and the postman will send us that letter of acceptance we have been dreaming about since the day we first committed to write for the Lord.

Header Picture

Several bloggers asked me today about my header picture. I told a few it was Italy and partly that is true. We sent my daughter there with the new blogger--Bobbie Klein--who is a good friend from years back. This particular picture was taken on the island of Sicily. They spent almost two weeks touring Rome, Venice and other areas so I have a stash of pictures saved on my computer. Wish it was Florida!

It's Friday in Florida

And I rolled over and lifted one eye. 6:24 Ugh.

It's a sin to get out of bed before the sun does. Not an easy feat in the Sunshine State.

But it's Friday and I have two days left in this week. My brain has been buzzing with blog posts, editing notes, story lines and deadlines. It's been a good week to accomplish much of the writing I wanted to do but I haven't completed all my goals yet.

I need to unplug the house phone, turn off What Not to Wear, hide my IPOD, and bury my vacuum cleaner in the closet so I can focus on writing those two thousand more words.

I've got a plan for my writing--do you? Are you already thinking about next week and what you hope to accomplish?

But this week isn't over yet.

We still have today--are you ready to write, submit, create, blog, produce?

I will be after my bowl of oatmeal.

A new blogger

This past week a good friend stayed with me and I have been trying to get her to start a blog. Well--today she wrote her first post--short--but a post. Would all of you out there please give her a big dose of encouragement and check it out?

Stepping out of our boxes takes effort but is worth it. I know her newly gained blogging skills will encourage her as much as yours do mine.

She finished her first book and this next week it will be at a booksellers' show in Nashville! A great week for her! http://baublesfrombobbie.blogspot.com

Get Excited!

I'm really excited.

This could be the week that myself or someone else makes a difference.

Already this week:

A writer told me she is going to write something out of the box.

Another one said she'd finally send in a children's story.

Another said she would submit something again after putting it off for so long.

One writer said she felt inspired to work on her WIP.

One told me he hadn't written in a month and felt inspired to do so again.

Get Ready

This could be the week

that we make a difference in a person's life through our writing.

Get Ready

It's a new week and anything can happen.

I've never quoted myself but wanted to this week. I want this week to be the one we get excited about and anticipate what might or could happen with our writing.

It could be the week we get the phone call, the email, the letter in the mail, or even . . .

The urge to write something out of our box.

That novel spinning around in our head; that children's story that rises up every time you pass a schoolyard or see your children step into the school bus; that mission story about when you went to camp and gave your life to the Lord.

This could be the week.

Get Ready.

Peculiar trends

It's a new week! Okay--officially it started yesterday, but I don't count the holidays.

It's a new week and anything can happen. I had a wild ride last week and I look forward to an exciting one this week.

Already today I heard from Amy at Peculiar People books. (check out my link) I hadn't heard anything in awhile as she has been ill. She is back on track and working on the edits for the stories that will appear in it.

I've seen that happen on a few of the projects I've had stories accepted in. I have been waiting awhile on two other books but last word I received is they had an editor.

Projects take time but that's the exciting part of writing. I never know when I will hear. If I submit enough places, one day I'll open my email and there it is---the acceptance I have been waiting for!

What will happen this week? Do you start it with excitement or a sense of dread? I hope with anticipation--especially if you are writing and sending.

Please let me know what happens in your writing world this week!! I'll post it here.

Newspaper Article

My writer's group made the paper! Here is the article from on-line.


Christian authors meet in Clermont
ROXANNE BROWN
Staff Writer
CLERMONT -- People interested in writing and spending a couple of hours the last Monday of each month with fellow Christians, may enjoy the Clermont Christian Writers group.
The group, led by author and former counselor Terri Tiffany, is focused around inspirational type works and provides a venue for encouragement, support, market information and tips toward publication.
"I belong to another writers group I plan to continue with, but the Christian market is different. I wanted to enjoy others who were doing the same," Tiffany said.
Tiffany, whose many inspirational stories have been published in Chicken Soup for the Soul, Sunday school take-home papers, numerous anthologies and women's magazines, just began the group and, after two meetings, has maintained a membership of six.
The group meets from 1 to 3 p.m. on the last Monday of each month in the Genealogy room at Cooper Memorial Library in downtown Clermont.
Tiffany said new members are welcome anytime.
Though the first meeting was mainly getting acquainted, the second meeting started with each person communicating their goals to Tiffany.
Tiffany took note of each member's goals, short- and long-term and from that list, joked about her plan to proceed with either "cheerleading" or "nagging" them all about accomplishing what they set out to do.
"I'm right at the edge of discourse half the time so the encouragement is big," member Donna Kohlstrom from Clermont said. "At first, I was worried about coming to the group. I felt a little depressed about my work and was ready to shred everything I'd written but after I came here the first time, I was motivated to write more. I felt like I got the encouragement I needed and the spirit just moved me."
In the past, Kohlstrom has had several essays, poems and short stories published.
However, Kohlstrom is attempting to write her first Christian woman's novel, as of July 1.
Since them, Kohlstrom has written 19,429 words and during the meeting, set a goal of sitting down to write at least 1,000 words per day.
Other member goals consisted of writing each day or writing a chapter or tow every day.
Kohlstrom said she is getting very much into the book and recently, was caught crying, by her husband after she had to kill off one its characters.
"It's not that my husband doesn't listen, he'll say "good job" or "oh no" but he doesn't have a clue, so I e-mail my cheerleader (Tiffany)," Kohlstrom. "Writers need to be with other writers and I wish we were meeting everyday, actually."
"Writing is such a lonely business and full of rejection, so it's nice to get this kind of support and encouragement."
The other members range from new, unpublished writers, long-time, unpublished writers and those who have been published and looking to share their experiences to help others.
Sharon Sutton, from Groveland, has never been published but is putting together a book of inspirational poems and stories she'd like someone to pick up.
Sutton, who was first inspired to write poetry after the loss of her husband years ago, said she was recently moved by God to shift her writing towards pieces that could possibly help support groups that deal with death and grief.
"I don't know what God is doing. He just told me to write, so I'm getting it all down," Sutton said.
Becky Joie-Oaks of Leesburg, who is working on two children's books, advised members to either double or triple save their work or print hard copies in case of computer glitches, based on her own experienced of having lost her own work.
In addition, members can also read their "works in progress" and accept critiques from others, share ideas and feedback.
Tiffany said she hopes members will be inspired by each other to write and reach their goals. She said she hopes to be able to get everyone published.
Tiffany's own goal last week, was to continue with a blog for the group in which she plans to include tips and links to publishing opportunities.
At the last meeting, Tiffany urged each member to sign up for her blog and start one of their own. She said blogs are great ways to network and be heard.
At the end of the meeting, each person voiced any prayer requests they had for themselves or each other and left commenting about how they couldn't wait to meet again next time.
"Remember, write everything down, nothing is wasted. We write to glorify God and if we do that, then even if no one ever reads what we wrote, then it's successful," Tiffany said the group before leaving. "But start a blog too, I'm going to nag you about that."
For information, visit clermontchristianwritersgroup.blogspot.com.

For Him

On the mornings my husband is still home when I wake up, he brings me my computer while I'm still in bed. (Oh the life of a queen.)

Today, something I read, reminded me that everything we do or the choices we make should be to glorify God.I make choices about what I will write on this blog each time I bring it up on my screen. I try to keep it about my writing journey but sometimes I slip like I did with the post about my visit with my grandson.

I am going to slip again today but I feel the nudge to do so.

A year ago, on August 29th, our lives changed dramatically.

As the anniversary of this day approached, I prayed and prayed to God that He would show us His power and grow my faith that He was still in charge of our lives.

The day began with more trials. My heart began to doubt and flail against more pain. But I prayed harder and offered Him all my faith that He knew what we were going through.

I want to write that He answered my prayers that day in a wonderful way. Despite a setback, God heard my prayer for a new hope.

It took me a few minutes to realize what He'd done-- so caught up I was in relief that the anniversary would now hold promise instead of pain. So often I forget who is in charge. But when I did-- It renewed me for the battle.

So today I want to publically give God the glory for orchestrating even the smallest details of our lives. He indeed has a purpose.

Have a good Labor Day-- and remember that we never labor in vain.