Today we welcome my new friend Linda Thompson to the blog. I remember the evening Linda won the 2016 ACFW Genesis award (I was a finalist that year in a different category) and I was impressed by her acceptance speech. I couldn’t wait to one day read The Plum Blooms in Winter. From the seed of an idea to a …
Waterfalls of the Heart via Tanya Agler
Please welcome my friend Tanya Agler to the blog today. Tanya writes “Sweet Southern Romance ~ Front Porch Style.” Writing Lessons A couple of weeks ago, I received an answer to a prayer about my writing. The answer was no. I wish I could lie and say I was a good sport about it, but the truth is I wasn’t. …
The Book That Changed Everything
Today please welcome the delightful Katie Powner to the blog as she shares the book that changed her perspective and shaped her writing career. I’m tickled to have you, Katie ~ Take it away! Some background… When I was little, it was The Velveteen Rabbit and Amy the Dancing Bear. Then it was The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles, then …
Five Things to Encourage You in Your Journey
From the moment we’re born, encouragement takes root. Mom and Dad cheer as we try and succeed at new things. Friends motivate us with kind words and recognition. Our influential sphere—confidantes and colleagues—inspire us to persevere and think beyond the comfortable. During our life journey, as we mature, we realize the value of encouragement. It buoys us during life-stretching seasons. …
After the Contract
Well, after a whirlwind January and now well into February, the excitement over my recent book (series) contract has eased into more of a lingering thrill. I’ve shared and celebrated, and now, I’ve settled into a new routine. Which, by the way, you’ve heard it before— The contract offer is only the beginning. After the contract is when the real …
So… What Next?
For a writer, there’s nothing quite as thrilling as landing your first book deal. Toss in a three-book deal and the series of your heart and you’re convinced you’ve just been showered with fairy dust. From the moment your agent delivers the news that an editor loves your project and has made an offer, to signing your name on the dotted …
Baby, It’s Cold Outside…But I Have Great News!
Brrr. Here in my little corner of the world, it’s cold! Though we’ve started a slow warming trend, for the past week or so, winter’s locked us in the deep freeze. I’m a born-and-raised Ozarks gal, but I’m not a fan of cold weather. Never have been, never will be. The good thing? It can’t last forever! And despite the …
A Dose of Truth for the Weary Writer
I know. But don’t let the blog title fool you. It’s good truth. I promise! Today’s thoughts are all about the love. And who can’t use more of that? Great! Let’s go! {{{HUG}}} As a little girl, I created masterpieces. I rocked my world with art and zany inventions. I made stuff from unusual materials. Egg cartons, fabric swatches, wallpaper samples—you …
September Update from My Niche in the Ozarks
As September draws to a close, there’s a hint of fall in the Ozarks. Though the metamorphosis is subtle, change is on the horizon as leaves grow restless and weary with the shifting season. It’s the time of year when earth yawns and new colors emerge replacing summer greens and once-vibrant blossoms. Usually, there’s a nip to the air by …
What Stories Matter?
Over the years, I’ve blogged often about story. As you would expect, stories are near and dear to my heart. I love to read them, write them, and listen to others tell them. It’s my firm belief that everyone has a story. Not everyone is a writer, but all of us have life experiences to draw from. We may journal, …