This has been a busy week. We spent the first part in Indiana visiting my cousin. We had a nice visit and look forward to going back again. We saw parts of the country we hadn't seen before. It was restful for me, but I did a little synopsis work on a couple of books.
I'm going to gear my writing to some contemporary. From what I've heard lately that is the way the business is moving. I'm sure there will always be historical books written, but the publishing companies are looking for more contemporary books. It's hard for me to write those, but that was the first book I every started to write.
Somewhere along the line, someone told me the book wouldn't sell. I became discouraged and began writing historical books.I think I thought I couldn't write contemporary, so I put it aside. I had written the book in several different versions. One with a widowed mother and small children, then I changed it to an unmarried woman with children, and now I'm doing a single woman with no children, no love life, just a career. The one with the unmarried children was a change of heart book, or a book where she saw the error of her ways and came back to God. I can see something like that happening, but that was the one I was told by an agent it would not sell.
Since I've finished Susannah, I'm thinking of other things to do. I do have Emily to do, but it can wait a while. Right now I need to finish a book I am writing for the church. Our congregation will be 125 years old in September. One of our members had a book for himself put together, and I'm writing it to publish for the church. It is a little more time-consuming, but well worth it. I'm learning so much about the early days of the church in this part of Kentucky, and also about the Reformation Era.
My husband and I talked last night about going to the Cane Ridge Revival in August. It is moving to be in the same place where Alexander Campbell, Barton Stone, and others preached. We've been to Cane Ridge once, but just to look around. I would love to be there and learn more of the history.
There is still much to do today. It's harder coming back from a trip than going. I need to finish laundry, it's always laundry. Then I need to write, write, write. Have a great day.
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Thursday, June 20, 2013
EASY SUMMER
Today is the first day of summer, and the longest day of the year. One of my great-nephews is flying to Ft. Wainwright, Alaska today for his tour of duty. I hope he will enjoy the sun, because he'll be coming up on days that have very little sun. I also told him I hope he likes winter sports. It's going to be a long winter for him. He's a good kid.
Thinking of summer and the heat, and things we all don't like to do in the heat, I came across this recipe from one of our church ladies. I have my chicken out to fix it tonight. It looked so good. Here's the recipe, simple and sounds good.
Crock pot Lemon Chicken - Put 1 Stick of butter in bottom of crock pot. Lay chicken in pot. Sprinkle Italian dressing packet over chicken, drizzle with lemon juice, pop the lid on. Cook on High 4-5 hours, or Low 6-8 hours.
I think I can do this. I love to cook like this, but my husband wants something cooked on the stove. Tonight, he's going to have simple. A salad and a vegetable is all we'll need. I'm making extra so we can have it tomorrow on a salad.
A lot of authors use the crock pot for their meals. I'm very busy today, so mine will be in use. It's so much easier than standing over a hot stove in 90 degree weather. Even with the air conditioner on, it's still hot to cook a big meal. I believe in saving time as much as possible.
How do you cook when you're busy or it's too hot to turn on the stove and oven? If you have some good quick recipes, share with us. I know we all would love to have them. A change from time to time is always good.If you'll send me your favorite recipe, I'll post my Chicken Cacciatore. It's easy and made in the slow cooker.
Have a great day. I'm going to be at the computer non-stop.
Thinking of summer and the heat, and things we all don't like to do in the heat, I came across this recipe from one of our church ladies. I have my chicken out to fix it tonight. It looked so good. Here's the recipe, simple and sounds good.
Crock pot Lemon Chicken - Put 1 Stick of butter in bottom of crock pot. Lay chicken in pot. Sprinkle Italian dressing packet over chicken, drizzle with lemon juice, pop the lid on. Cook on High 4-5 hours, or Low 6-8 hours.
I think I can do this. I love to cook like this, but my husband wants something cooked on the stove. Tonight, he's going to have simple. A salad and a vegetable is all we'll need. I'm making extra so we can have it tomorrow on a salad.
A lot of authors use the crock pot for their meals. I'm very busy today, so mine will be in use. It's so much easier than standing over a hot stove in 90 degree weather. Even with the air conditioner on, it's still hot to cook a big meal. I believe in saving time as much as possible.
How do you cook when you're busy or it's too hot to turn on the stove and oven? If you have some good quick recipes, share with us. I know we all would love to have them. A change from time to time is always good.If you'll send me your favorite recipe, I'll post my Chicken Cacciatore. It's easy and made in the slow cooker.
Have a great day. I'm going to be at the computer non-stop.
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
THINKING ABOUT ACFW CONFERENCE
It's less than three months before ACFW Conference begins in Indianapolis, IN. I am already getting excited and starting to plan my trip. If anyone else on this blog is going, this might help you.
The firsts thing to do is register. Make a copy of your registration form. I take it with me with the names of the agents/editors I've signed up to see.
If you are a first-timer, there is a first-timer meeting at the hotel on Friday at 11:00 a.m. I'm so glad it's not right before dinner as it has been in the past. This gives you time before the conference starts at 2.
When you register, read, read, read. Find out what level you are in and if the classes in that level are interesting, by all means register for what you want. Read what the different agents and editors require before you put them down for a preference. This year, I've seen agents want a full manuscript completed before you speak to them. Know their info and learn all you can about them.
Make a good one-sheet. This is hard for me. I hate doing them and I usually ask another author to help me. If you are pitching more than one story, make one-sheets for each one. I would even have a synopsis ready in case they ask for it. I have four books I want to bring to the attention of agents and I will have at least one-sheets for each of them. Then relax.
It is so hard for me to relax when I'm talking to an agent or editor. Number one, I'm trying to make a good impression. Number two, I want them to like my story. Usually words jumble all over the place and I make a fool of myself. When I go out of the room, I ask myself, "why did I say that?" If you have done your homework well with each agent and editor, you'll know what you need to about them, so feel comfortable and relax.
Clothes are the biggest thing on my agenda. Comfortable clothes, not anything tight or confining. I wear flats all the time, even to the awards banquet. I also can't stand for my feet to get cold, so I'm not wearing sandals. Think about what you feel comfortable in and wear it. Start now to think about clothes you'll wear.
Leave room in your suitcase for the books you'll be bringing home. I have a little fold up bag that unzips into a good sized dufffel bag. It's my favorite for trips where I will pick up extras. It fits in my suitcase and I can carry it on when flying.
I'm sure there are other things I could say, but these come to mind this morning. One last thing. Drink plenty of water. Your body is going to be out of sync during the week-end, so you need the extra water.
Start planning now and I'll see you in Indianapolis in September.
The firsts thing to do is register. Make a copy of your registration form. I take it with me with the names of the agents/editors I've signed up to see.
If you are a first-timer, there is a first-timer meeting at the hotel on Friday at 11:00 a.m. I'm so glad it's not right before dinner as it has been in the past. This gives you time before the conference starts at 2.
When you register, read, read, read. Find out what level you are in and if the classes in that level are interesting, by all means register for what you want. Read what the different agents and editors require before you put them down for a preference. This year, I've seen agents want a full manuscript completed before you speak to them. Know their info and learn all you can about them.
Make a good one-sheet. This is hard for me. I hate doing them and I usually ask another author to help me. If you are pitching more than one story, make one-sheets for each one. I would even have a synopsis ready in case they ask for it. I have four books I want to bring to the attention of agents and I will have at least one-sheets for each of them. Then relax.
It is so hard for me to relax when I'm talking to an agent or editor. Number one, I'm trying to make a good impression. Number two, I want them to like my story. Usually words jumble all over the place and I make a fool of myself. When I go out of the room, I ask myself, "why did I say that?" If you have done your homework well with each agent and editor, you'll know what you need to about them, so feel comfortable and relax.
Clothes are the biggest thing on my agenda. Comfortable clothes, not anything tight or confining. I wear flats all the time, even to the awards banquet. I also can't stand for my feet to get cold, so I'm not wearing sandals. Think about what you feel comfortable in and wear it. Start now to think about clothes you'll wear.
Leave room in your suitcase for the books you'll be bringing home. I have a little fold up bag that unzips into a good sized dufffel bag. It's my favorite for trips where I will pick up extras. It fits in my suitcase and I can carry it on when flying.
I'm sure there are other things I could say, but these come to mind this morning. One last thing. Drink plenty of water. Your body is going to be out of sync during the week-end, so you need the extra water.
Start planning now and I'll see you in Indianapolis in September.
Thursday, June 13, 2013
FAIRCHILD'S LADY
Yesterday I started Fairchilds Lady by Roseanna White. It is a very short book, a novella, but it is very good. It plays right in to the popularity of Le Mes. About the French Revolution and the classes of people at that time. I thoroughly enjoyed it and wish it had been longer.
During my breaks, I began to read the book. I was finished before supper, and I didn't read that much. It is a quick read. One you don't want to put down. Roseanna is an awesome writer, I think I'll list her in my favorites. This is a free book from Amazon. Here's the back cover.
This bonus romantic novella is set in the intervening years between Ring of Secrets and Whispers from the Shadows by Roseanna M. White. In 1789 General Isaac Fairchild travels across the Channel on a very special assignment. After surviving the American Revolution, he is now gathering information on life at King Louis XVI’s court. But he must also locate a countess and her grown daughter and escort them back to England before revolution explodes in France. He knows danger is in the task set before him, but when he meets the beautiful Julienne, a new peril beckons him deeper into the intrigue of Versailles.
I think I'm going to have to find the books this one is between. Sounds interesting.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
FREE E BOOKS
We all love free e books, or at least I do. I've run across several recently that seem to be good. They are from authors I like.
The first one is by Dee Henderson. I do like her books, but I like suspense and mystery. Here's the information on how to get the book and something about it.
The first one is by Dee Henderson. I do like her books, but I like suspense and mystery. Here's the information on how to get the book and something about it.
Thursday, June 6, 2013
RITUALS
Probably everyone of us has some ritual we go through each day. We don't think of it as a ritual, but it is something we do each day. It's a habit. My day is filled with habits/rituals I do all the time, and it's hard to break these things.
Each morning when I come to the computer, I have to play Solitaire. I tell myself I need to let the computer warm up before I start writing, but I really love the game. Nine years ago, when my mind needed a real boost after several surgeries, I started playing it to stimulate my mind. It keeps my eyes and mind alert, but it also delays my writing. I can't seem to stop playing this game, so I would say I'm addicted.
Isn't it funny how we become dependent on these little routines we go through each day? Another one of my good habits is to read the Bible first thing in the morning. My mind is clear and I have less distractions. My husband and I have been using a program from a website, Larry's Lines. I'm not reading straight through, but making the reading more fun. This month we are reading about "Stories You May Have Forgotten." This is more interesting to me than to start in Genesis and go straight through. I have connections between the stories.
Another habit I have is to ask my husband what he wants for dinner each day. His answer is always, "I don't care." Why don't I save my breath and prepare whatever I want? It would be much quicker.
Next week we are having our Vacation Bible School, and I am a sorcerer. After studying about this subject, I realized we all have rituals. I have to explain it to the children not do these things. It's going to be hard since I am the worst offender. I don't do it for good luck, nor do I read a horoscope. I don't believe in those things. But I have to explain it to kids for 3 year olds to teens what sorcery is and why we don't teach it.
The older kids will connect with Harry Potter, but it's going to be harder to teach the younger kids. They do watch The Witches of Waverly Place and Power Rangers. I'm sure there are others, but I'm not a big watcher of Disney channel.
In doing this research, I've been amazed how many sorcery signs enter our lives each day. Also, the words we use that are associated with sorcery are scattered through our language. We think nothing of it, but we should.
Now, that I've written this blog, which is another ritual, I need to get to writing. American Christian Fiction Writers is coming up in a few months, plus I'll have visitors here in August. There's not much time to finish my book, do a one-page, synopsis, and get chapters ready for the conference. I'm going to be one busy woman!
Each morning when I come to the computer, I have to play Solitaire. I tell myself I need to let the computer warm up before I start writing, but I really love the game. Nine years ago, when my mind needed a real boost after several surgeries, I started playing it to stimulate my mind. It keeps my eyes and mind alert, but it also delays my writing. I can't seem to stop playing this game, so I would say I'm addicted.
Isn't it funny how we become dependent on these little routines we go through each day? Another one of my good habits is to read the Bible first thing in the morning. My mind is clear and I have less distractions. My husband and I have been using a program from a website, Larry's Lines. I'm not reading straight through, but making the reading more fun. This month we are reading about "Stories You May Have Forgotten." This is more interesting to me than to start in Genesis and go straight through. I have connections between the stories.
Another habit I have is to ask my husband what he wants for dinner each day. His answer is always, "I don't care." Why don't I save my breath and prepare whatever I want? It would be much quicker.
Next week we are having our Vacation Bible School, and I am a sorcerer. After studying about this subject, I realized we all have rituals. I have to explain it to the children not do these things. It's going to be hard since I am the worst offender. I don't do it for good luck, nor do I read a horoscope. I don't believe in those things. But I have to explain it to kids for 3 year olds to teens what sorcery is and why we don't teach it.
The older kids will connect with Harry Potter, but it's going to be harder to teach the younger kids. They do watch The Witches of Waverly Place and Power Rangers. I'm sure there are others, but I'm not a big watcher of Disney channel.
In doing this research, I've been amazed how many sorcery signs enter our lives each day. Also, the words we use that are associated with sorcery are scattered through our language. We think nothing of it, but we should.
Now, that I've written this blog, which is another ritual, I need to get to writing. American Christian Fiction Writers is coming up in a few months, plus I'll have visitors here in August. There's not much time to finish my book, do a one-page, synopsis, and get chapters ready for the conference. I'm going to be one busy woman!
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
If you could live your life over, what would you change? I could say nothing, but that wouldn't be honest. Some changes I would make would change me and my family forever, but others would not. Here are a few changes I'd make in my life.
First, I want to be taller. I stand at 5'2", which is short. I would like to be able to see over the crowd at least once at a parade or a conference. All those tall people jammed in front of me keep me from seeing what is going on. I've always said when I die, I know I will be taller. The Lord will tell me I've walked on my knees long enough. I can't do anything about being short. I have adjusted to the fact, but now all my grandchildren are taller than me except one. He's in a growing spurt right now and will be taller soon.
Second, I would like to be thinner. Isn't that the wish for every woman? I can work on that, so that is not a problem. For the past couple of weeks I have not exercised and my weight has told me I need to get back at it again. I am exercising now.
Third, I would like to be smarter. Okay, I can study more of the craft of writing and be smarter, or I can listen to others and learn more about writing. It's all up to me. This is something I can change, but the retention span needs working on.
Fourth, I would like to be richer. Then, again, would I want to be? I am content with what I have, but we all want more. Isn't that the American way?
I would not change my husband or my children. I could not ask for a better husband or family. I would like for my oldest granddaughter to be healthier. She has a damaged lung and is having trouble recovering from pneumonia. We pray she will be better soon.
The biggest desire I have is for my books to sell well. Most of us write to supplement our income. I can't image anyone writing and not wanting pay for the time they put into the work. Yes, it is work. No one sits down and the words flow out of their mind into their fingers. We have to research, edit, listen to others, and sit at the computer for hours. I love it, but sometimes my mind is so tired.
My biggest wish is for a fairy to come in and clean my house so I can write more. That is not going to happen, so I have to take time out to clear the dust away. Writing is still more fun!
First, I want to be taller. I stand at 5'2", which is short. I would like to be able to see over the crowd at least once at a parade or a conference. All those tall people jammed in front of me keep me from seeing what is going on. I've always said when I die, I know I will be taller. The Lord will tell me I've walked on my knees long enough. I can't do anything about being short. I have adjusted to the fact, but now all my grandchildren are taller than me except one. He's in a growing spurt right now and will be taller soon.
Second, I would like to be thinner. Isn't that the wish for every woman? I can work on that, so that is not a problem. For the past couple of weeks I have not exercised and my weight has told me I need to get back at it again. I am exercising now.
Third, I would like to be smarter. Okay, I can study more of the craft of writing and be smarter, or I can listen to others and learn more about writing. It's all up to me. This is something I can change, but the retention span needs working on.
Fourth, I would like to be richer. Then, again, would I want to be? I am content with what I have, but we all want more. Isn't that the American way?
I would not change my husband or my children. I could not ask for a better husband or family. I would like for my oldest granddaughter to be healthier. She has a damaged lung and is having trouble recovering from pneumonia. We pray she will be better soon.
The biggest desire I have is for my books to sell well. Most of us write to supplement our income. I can't image anyone writing and not wanting pay for the time they put into the work. Yes, it is work. No one sits down and the words flow out of their mind into their fingers. We have to research, edit, listen to others, and sit at the computer for hours. I love it, but sometimes my mind is so tired.
My biggest wish is for a fairy to come in and clean my house so I can write more. That is not going to happen, so I have to take time out to clear the dust away. Writing is still more fun!
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