When the film Gremlins was released at the box office in 1984, this horror/comedy introduced cute, furry creatures that morphed into sinister monsters. The movie garnered a PG-13 rating—something that was still new at the time—because of some violent content and language. Gremlins appealed to a lot of folks, but I didn’t like it. No surprise there—even then, I was …
10 ThingsYou Should Know About the Writing Journey
There are some things on the path to publication you won’t know. Things people won’t tell you. Not because they deliberately try to withhold information, but because the journey’s so different for everyone. Some folks will offer businesslike advice while others will share more practical and helpful tips—what worked for them, how they muddled through, and what they did while …
Friday: Your Work Week Wind-Down
Well, as so often is the case in the Ozarks, we’ve had a twenty-two degree temperature drop. I’m already shivering with today’s projected high of sixty degrees and rain compared to yesterday’s warmish eighty-two and periodic bursts of sunshine. Ahhh. Life is indeed a mixed bag of unpredictability. As we wind down our work week (even despite the temperature shift) …
20 Terrific Ways Writers Spread Joy
I’m a people-lover. And because I care about people (YOU) I love to spread joy! I’ve had some disappointments. I’ve walked the valley. (I’ve shared some of those trials here and here.) I think when we experience life’s heartaches, we view others’ hardships through a fresh lens. We’re more inclined to nitpick less, listen better, and love more. Sometimes, it’s …
Why New Seasons Can Kick-Start Our Creativity
Over our way there’s a crisp chill to the air as the new season ushers in change. There’s nothing quite like fall in the Ozarks—in these ancient hills and hollows where my ancestors lived and gave birth to dreams. I find my creativity level soars during this time of year more than any other. Maybe it’s the palette of pretty …
Time Management for Writers
Since I’m in revision mode, friends, I’m bringing back an oldie (but a goodie). Thank you for extending grace. Enjoy! *** It happened again. It’s not something I like to talk about because I’m the kind of gal who doesn’t like to hurt folks’ feelings. But here’s the truth: Sometimes, kind people—gals, guys, writers, bakers, and candlestick makers—get used. And not in a …
Past ACFW Conference Highlights
Tomorrow is the official ACFW conference kick-off! Due to some schedule conflicts I’m cheering from the sidelines this year, but I’ll be there in spirit. Today as many of our friends are preparing for this annual writers conference, I thought it might be fun to highlight some past years’ conferences. If you’re feeling a little blue about missing this year …
Fall into the Ozarks
It’s almost here! Can you feel it? For this born and bred Ozarkian gal, fall is my absolute favorite time of year! I adore the cool breeze and glorious color. If I must endure the 30 degree temperature shifts (sometimes, literally overnight), then I figure it’s finally payback. Fall in the Ozarks is a time like no other. There’s lots …
Encouragement to Bless You
Have you had a tough week? Are you ready for a bright spot? Then you’ve come to the right place! Sit back, kick your shoes off, and soak in some encouragement. I have a few diddies just for YOU. Every week I scour cyberland high and low for goodies to bless your heart. I think by Friday all of us …
Kick-Start Your Week with Monday Motivation
Sometimes Mondays bring a mixed bag of emotions. We dread them, embrace them, or simply accept them as a matter of course. It only stands to reason that if we have a lot going on in our lives, the first day of our work week can overwhelm. It makes sense, too, when we look forward to something we approach Mondays …