Dream. Just the word spurs our imagination. And while we’re at it, if we’re going to dream, why not do it in a big way? Isn’t that the purpose—to envision something extraordinary? I’ve always said: Goals are something I try to realistically shoot for with God’s help. Dreams, however, are something beyond the tangible, but completely possible with the One …
The Mystery of a Writer’s Heart
Writing is a subjective thing. While there are rules, styles, and formats to follow, at the end of the day the writer’s heart still remains a mystery. We can’t explain it, rationalize it, or put it in a box. Because it’s impossible to measure creativity, the depth and breadth of talent is unpredictable. What makes sense in the traditional vein …
Feel Good Friday
Have you had a hectic week? Me, too! I think Feel Good Friday is in order! Sit back, relax, and prepare to unwind for minute. If you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up, you’ve come to the right place. (And don’t forget to check out last Friday’s post if you missed Downtime Dillydallying: 15 Tips to a Stress-Free Weekend.) This week …
Downtime Dillydallying: 15 Tips for a Stress-Free Weekend
Come Friday (or Fried-Day) I think most of us would agree the weekend can’t come quick enough. And let’s be honest—when noon rolls around on this delightful day of the week, who doesn’t start watching the clock? (If your hand went up, lean forward. I’m whipping out my wet noodle.) While I love what I do, I work hard. During …
Sometimes You Need a Breather. Fresh Air HERE.
For many this is a difficult week. Religious freedom threatened. Violence abroad and at home. Health crises. The loss of loved ones. Heartache. Hopelessness. Indecision. Human frailties thrust to the forefront—open and exposed. The list goes on. Sometimes, it’s all just too much. Sometimes, you simply need a breather—a dose of fresh air to revive your senses. Something to remind …
When Seasons Affect Our Writing Goals
Summer used to be my most productive season. I’d make a list of goals, hunker down for the duration, and set about my task. With a few exceptions, I’d accomplish nearly everything on my list. Well—not so this summer. This summer has been a busy season. It’s been a poignant time marked with highs and lows. The highs came with …
10 Things You Should Know about Christian Fiction Novelists
During our writing journey, it’s interesting to see people’s reactions when discussing our craft. Occasionally, the conversation may go something like this: “What is it you do anyway?” “Well,” (we may slug back our favorite beverage as we gather steam for what we know is coming) “I’m a writer.” “A writer, huh? That’s nice. I’m going to write a book …
12 Writing Goodies to Brighten Your Day
Hump day, slump day. Half-way through the work week, but still a few days left to go. What, then, is a writer to do when weariness sets in and motivation stalls? Well… We must press on, of course! (Thus the visual goodies above to kick-start some happy thoughts. Don’t pretend you’re immune to strawberries and chocolate—fibbing isn’t healthy.) I don’t …
Summer Greetings from the Ozarks
Hi friends! Summer greetings to you and yours from our neck of the woods. Hope your week’s off to a great start! This is the time of year when things get pretty hot and sticky in the Ozarks. The temperatures soar and so does the humidity. (Perfect hair days are a figment of the imagination at least until early fall.) …
Visiting the Ozarks? Try Mocha Jo’s Coffee Cafe!
Last week I talked about my reunion with a dear friend. I mentioned that we met at Mocha Jo’s Coffee Cafe, an eclectic gem in the Missouri Ozarks, and today I wanted to tell you more about it. I found Mocha Jo’s online as I researched possible places we could hook up for lunch. Since I hadn’t seen my friend …