tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84418474718602510252024-03-13T08:21:09.976-07:00Seriously WriteEncouraging and equipping Christian writers along their writing journeyAnnette M. Irbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04248109874234508410noreply@blogger.comBlogger2953125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-55320198355591595322020-12-21T03:30:00.001-08:002020-12-21T03:30:05.542-08:00Farewell to Seriously Write by Annette M. Irby<p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VSqeDr2LkP0/X9-MUFBni-I/AAAAAAAAGgg/3Ub0fvsfbBwFnVrqbkFYZS7P-leYRs_pgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1280/time%2Bto%2Bsay%2Bgoodbye%2Bpixabay.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="649" data-original-width="1280" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VSqeDr2LkP0/X9-MUFBni-I/AAAAAAAAGgg/3Ub0fvsfbBwFnVrqbkFYZS7P-leYRs_pgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/time%2Bto%2Bsay%2Bgoodbye%2Bpixabay.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p></p><p>
<b>A little history</b><br /><br />
It’s hard to believe, after eleven and a half years, that the time has come to say adieu. But don’t worry. All the posts will remain here on the blog for the foreseeable future, with a convenient search option in the sidebar if you’d like to look up a topic or guest’s name.<br /><br />
<b>Warning, gushing ahead!</b><br /><br />
I remember the day in <a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2009/06/welcome.html" target="_blank">June of </a><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2009/06/welcome.html" target="_blank">2009</a> when I first had the vision for what Seriously Write could be. Previously, I’d launched a couple of blogs and shared articles and book reviews. I knew I wanted to provide an avenue to encourage writers. As a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) for a few years by that time, I’d had the honor of meeting many editors, authors, publishers, and fellow dreamers. I pondered asking them to guest post about writerly topics. Would they join in? They did! They wanted to give back too, while we promoted their work. A win-win.<br /><br />
Also, through ACFW, I met a local writing buddy, and we became very good friends. Right after launching this site I got in touch with my critique partner Dawn Kinzer and asked her if she’d be willing to join me in writing posts, scheduling guests, promoting, etc. She jumped in immediately. Thank you, Dawn! Seriously Write would not be what it is today without your faithful involvement for over a decade!
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Through the years, other hostesses joined us to write posts, network, and schedule guests. Many, many authors, fellow editors, publishers, and fellow dreamers contributed. They shared devotions, how-tos, writing craft tips, journey-to-publication stories, and above all—encouragement. The writing life is challenging, given all the sacrifices and rejection. We wanted to tip the scales in the opposite direction and provide hope and support. <br /><br />
If you served as one of our hostesses over the years—thank you! I’d name you but I’d hate to leave anyone out. You are appreciated! My current fellow hostesses include: Dawn Kinzer, Sandy Ardoin, Terri Weldon, and Mary Felkins. Thank you for all you’ve done to enrich the writing community. Words aren’t enough, but God knows. May He richly bless you all for blessing writers!
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Each hostess oversaw a weekday, and I tackled Mondays. I’ve had several awesome folks join me as regular contributors over the years. If you’re one of them, thank you! My current team for Mondays includes: Peter Leavell, Patty Nicholas-Boyte, and Melissa Henderson. Sending gratitude to you for your contributions and faithfulness month after month, year after year. <br /><br />
And dear readers of SW, know that we’ve prayed for you, that you’d be encouraged and blessed. That you’d find tips you could use. It’s been a privilege to serve you, and we hope you’ve found uplifting content here. Thank you for reading and sharing. You’ve encouraged us!<br /><br />
<b>Writers rock!</b><br /><br />
If you’ve contributed to the blog, whether as a hostess, regular contributor, tech support, or a guest—thank you!! Seriously Write would not have survived this long without your contributions. May God richly bless you.<br /><br />
Technology changes a lot in eleven years! Gratitude especially goes out to Angie Arndt and Emily Conrad for answering panicked emails and helping the rest of us negotiate social media through those changes. You’ve saved the day several times. I think I speak for all the hostesses and some regular contributors when I say a hearty “thank you!”<br /><br />
<b>Encouragement</b><br /><br />
If you’re here for a last dose of encouragement, here you go: Write on! Don’t give up! Continue studying books in your genre. Keep reading writerly blogs, articles, and books. You can use the search box on the right to find articles here on multiple aspects of the writing life, from homonyms to Hallmark movie adaptations. Keep learning the craft. There is always more to learn. There are always new ways to grow in your writing. Dream new dreams. Trust that God will both inspire your dreams and fulfill them as you delight in Him.<br /><br />
<b>Benediction</b><br /><br />
We began Seriously Write with a <a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2009/06/dedication.html" target="_blank">dedication</a>. So, it’s fitting to end with a benediction.<br /><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>With that, brothers and sisters, I must say goodbye. <br />Make sure that you improve. Accept my encouragement. <br />Share the same attitude and live in peace. <br />The God of love and peace will be with you. </i><br />2 Cor. 13:11 GW<br /></p><p><br />
Go, and do your creative best for His glory!<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>Make a careful exploration of who you are and <br />the work you have been given, <br />and then sink yourself into that. <br />Don’t be impressed with yourself. <br />Don’t compare yourself with others. <br />Each of you must take responsibility for doing <br />the creative best you can with your own life. </i><br />Gal. 6:4-5 MSG<br /></p><p><br />
And finally, a personal favorite:<br /><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us, <br />And establish the work of our hands for us; <br />Yes, establish the work of our hands.</i> <br />Ps. 90:17 NKJV<br /></p><p><br />
<i>Thank You, Jesus, for all You’ve done through SW and for blessing the work of our hands. Please guide each reader and writer into whatever is next. The glory is Yours.</i><br /><br />
With prayers and gratitude, <br /><br />
Annette, along with my fellow hostesses and regular contributors here at Seriously Write. We wish you all His best.
</p><p class="tweetable">It's the end of an era at #SeriouslyWrite blog. Join @AnnetteMIrby as the blog signs off. #amwriting #authorlife</p>
photo credit: pixabay<br /><br /><p></p>Annette M. Irbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04248109874234508410noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-56652807172606750752020-12-19T00:00:00.019-08:002020-12-19T00:00:03.322-08:00Like the Closing of a Book by Sandra Ardoin<p><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-__eOp43GjcI/X9zSGsEvS8I/AAAAAAAAGVs/DJI2CjCmqLs4RQn3T8PJIZUtflXWBA31ACLcBGAsYHQ/s940/FB%2BPosts%2BCorner%2BRoom%2B%252813%2529.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-__eOp43GjcI/X9zSGsEvS8I/AAAAAAAAGVs/DJI2CjCmqLs4RQn3T8PJIZUtflXWBA31ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/FB%2BPosts%2BCorner%2BRoom%2B%252813%2529.jpg" width="320"></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">By now you know that we’re saying
goodbye to Seriously Write, so I wanted to add my own farewell—or let’s just
call it a “see you later”—to those of the others you’ve read this month. </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Don’t worry,
you’ll still have access to past articles, and I hope you’ll come back here on
occasion, looking for answers to some of your questions, or maybe some
encouragement to keep plugging away in this business.<span></span></span></span></p><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/12/like-closing-of-book-by-sandra-ardoin.html#more"></a>Sandra Ardoinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007790799568055828noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-4559167650681716852020-12-18T00:30:00.002-08:002020-12-18T00:30:03.581-08:00Are You Fervent About Your Writing? by JoAnn Durgin <b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wbrx4QYwuc4/X9exBZNx2SI/AAAAAAAAWy8/KYf8GnfEs0QA1X1h3b57cnHGsULWeqPUQCLcBGAsYHQ/s940/The%2Bpresence%2Bof%2Bpassion%252C%2Bfaith%252C%2Band%2B%2Bbelief%2Bin%2Bour%2Bhearts%2Bis%2Ba%2Bgift..png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Meme about being Fervent in Our Writing" border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="432" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wbrx4QYwuc4/X9exBZNx2SI/AAAAAAAAWy8/KYf8GnfEs0QA1X1h3b57cnHGsULWeqPUQCLcBGAsYHQ/w516-h432/The%2Bpresence%2Bof%2Bpassion%252C%2Bfaith%252C%2Band%2B%2Bbelief%2Bin%2Bour%2Bhearts%2Bis%2Ba%2Bgift..png" width="516"></a></div><br>Are you<i> fervent </i>about your writing? </b><br><br>
In my ladies’ Bible study, we’re currently working through the book, <i>Fervent</i>, written by Priscilla Shirer. “Fervent” is an intriguing word, isn’t it? It’s not a word we’re used to hearing in everyday conversation. Most of the ladies in our group hadn’t heard of the word at all. Here’s the basic definition of <i>fervent</i>: “having or displaying a passionate intensity about something.” <span></span><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/12/are-you-fervent-about-your-writing-by.html#more"></a>Dawn Kinzerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15889724810331740092noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-27809982746880841842020-12-17T00:00:00.009-08:002020-12-17T00:00:04.333-08:00Saying Goodbye Can Be A Good Thing by Terri Weldon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-osaDi_XHb6g/X9recSeNYGI/AAAAAAAABWg/mpWX2lDSFdwGJjsb78UHD9AQ8wWnuO5swCLcBGAsYHQ/s750/Goodbye.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-osaDi_XHb6g/X9recSeNYGI/AAAAAAAABWg/mpWX2lDSFdwGJjsb78UHD9AQ8wWnuO5swCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Goodbye.jpeg" /></a></div>This is my last post on Seriously Write. The last time I’ll ever pull up Blogger and load a post that will be published on This and That Thursday. It feels bittersweet.
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My journey on Seriously Write has been progressive. I guest blogged, then became a regular contributor, and eventually moved to hostess when Dora Hiers felt led to pursue other writing related goals. I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.
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The ladies on the blog: Annette Irby, Dawn Kinzer, Sandy Ardoin, Dora Hiers, Angie Arndt, and Mary Felkins have been a joy to work with. I’d also like to give a special shout out to the regular contributors I’ve been blessed to work with: Sally Shupe, Patti Jo Moore, Susan Tuttle, and Heidi Chiavaroli.
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Sounds sad so far – right? So you may be wondering where the Saying Goodbye Can Be A Good Thing title comes in. Each stage of my Seriously Write journey has been filled with anticipation of what each step would bring. That’s even true of the end of the blog.
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I know God isn’t through with me or my writing yet, so I’m left to ask, “What’s next, Lord?” Seeing what God has planned and anticipating what the future holds is exciting. Knowing I’ll have more time to write or time to serve a writing group in some extra capacity is encouraging. Is the end of Seriously Write scary? Not really. When we discussed ending the blog it seemed as if God was leading us to do so. We may not know always what His plans are for us, but we know they are far greater than anything we could plan for ourselves.
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Seriously Write has been good to me. I’ve made friendships I hope to never lose. A quote often attributed to Dr. Seuss says it best, “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.”
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So I leave you today with a smile. I’m feeling joyful that I was invited to be a part of Seriously Write. Blessings my friends – both now and forever.
<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all." —2 Thessalonians 3:16 NLT </i></div><br />
<p class="tweetable">Saying Goodbye Can Be A Good Thing</p>
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<p class="tweetable"> A quote often attributed to Dr. Seuss says it best, “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.”</p>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PxyoqNxeAWo/WSZdQxLNy7I/AAAAAAAAAVg/2SIl3Xtk6tkZWcMJzG10ZQuvFcPVzx9hACPcBGAYYCw/s2048/Terri%2BWeldon%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PxyoqNxeAWo/WSZdQxLNy7I/AAAAAAAAAVg/2SIl3Xtk6tkZWcMJzG10ZQuvFcPVzx9hACPcBGAYYCw/s320/Terri%2BWeldon%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Terri Weldon</i></b> feels blessed to be a full time writer. She enjoys traveling, gardening, reading, and shopping for shoes. One of her favorite pastimes is volunteering as the librarian at her church. It allows her to shop for books and spend someone else’s money! Plus, she has the great joy of introducing people to Christian fiction. She lives with her family in the Heartland of the United States. Terri is a member of ACFW and RWA. Readers can connect with Terri on her Website: www.TerriWeldon.com Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18195716086187334305noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-30867807021200594552020-12-16T00:00:00.014-08:002020-12-16T00:00:05.869-08:00‘For We Saw His Star when It Rose' by Patty Smith Hall<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dRlimgsnpUM/X9i14xmmq5I/AAAAAAAAGTY/9E4_K0adp5seHROYo2dZnA7m0l93C13BgCLcBGAsYHQ/s370/Patty%2527s%2B2019%2BHeadshots-2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="370" data-original-width="305" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dRlimgsnpUM/X9i14xmmq5I/AAAAAAAAGTY/9E4_K0adp5seHROYo2dZnA7m0l93C13BgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Patty%2527s%2B2019%2BHeadshots-2.jpg"></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>‘When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and stars, which thou hast ordained; What is a man, that thou art mindful of him? And the son of man that thou visitest him?’</i> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Psalms 8:3-4</span><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">When I was a little girl, Christmas was my favorite time of the year. We’d put up our tree, one fresh from my Granddaddy Smith’s nursery, the second week of December and spend a Sunday afternoon decorating. I remember lying under it, watching all the twinkly lights reflect off the store-bought ornaments and tinsel and thinking it was the most beautiful tree I’d ever seen.<span></span></span></p><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/12/for-we-saw-his-star-when-it-rose-by.html#more"></a>Sandra Ardoinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007790799568055828noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-22914517234864668562020-12-15T00:00:00.014-08:002020-12-15T00:00:02.445-08:00Keep the Faith by Shannon Redmon<p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GKflVWl7QU8/XVsvBwtfWzI/AAAAAAAABtw/xoc_5ZUQe3Ako3WZ1J-WO0SWs8K6W-aVgCPcBGAYYCw/s552/shannon%2Bheadshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="552" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GKflVWl7QU8/XVsvBwtfWzI/AAAAAAAABtw/xoc_5ZUQe3Ako3WZ1J-WO0SWs8K6W-aVgCPcBGAYYCw/w200-h200/shannon%2Bheadshot.jpg" width="200"></a></b></div><b>The End</b>…Two words that carry a multitude of meanings. <p></p><p>When a writer completes a story, these two words bring joy and satisfaction.
When a chaotic year comes to a close, these two words signify relief and hope for a better tomorrow. </p><p>Many of us look forward to 2020 coming to an end.
But when these two words are included in a sweet goodbye to our very own Seriously Write Blog, sadness resounds and reflection begins. </p><p>These two words may conclude the end of our blog, but the writers, contributors and readers will continue forward. Our call to write and read is still clear.
Instead of an ending, let this be a new chapter in our lives, an open door, a new mission from God. He’s freed up time for us to do something new. </p><p>And who doesn’t love something new? </p><p>Especially at Christmas. 😊 🎄</p><p><span></span></p><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/12/keep-faith-by-shannon-redmon.html#more"></a>Mary A Felkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08638581580394236129noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-83645695863646464602020-12-14T02:30:00.070-08:002020-12-14T10:04:09.009-08:00A Writer's Final Repose<p>Seven and a half years have gone by since I first blogged for Seriously Write. The mission? Reach out to writers. Encourage them. Engage. Maybe entertain. But most of all, equip. Give writers tools to succeed. However, as you know, writers are freaks—their interests are so bizarre you never know what will win and what will be tossed onto the slush pile. I opened my history to see what received the most hits. </p><p>So, for the past seven and a half years of my column, what have you freaks been interested in? </p><span></span><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/12/a-writers-final-repose.html#more"></a>Peter Leavellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17466884652103212719noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-21944698577094833362020-12-11T00:30:00.035-08:002020-12-11T00:30:00.240-08:00A Season for Everything – My Farewell to Seriously Write by Dawn Kinzer<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-STkcyVgxuoo/X7wRF2u_7BI/AAAAAAAAWvg/inxz0u9IBlQs_iUjNuZquHoUqNE3Q6OwwCLcBGAsYHQ/s703/iStock-160449018.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Photo of a Tree in All 4 Seasons" border="0" data-original-height="497" data-original-width="703" height="370" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-STkcyVgxuoo/X7wRF2u_7BI/AAAAAAAAWvg/inxz0u9IBlQs_iUjNuZquHoUqNE3Q6OwwCLcBGAsYHQ/w524-h370/iStock-160449018.jpg" width="524"></a></div><br>A Season for Everything</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">My Farewell to Seriously Write </span></b></div><br>
One of my favorite Bible verses expresses so perfectly the path we’ve now chosen for Seriously Write. <br><br><blockquote>There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens... (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV) </blockquote><br>
This is the last post I’ll write for this blog, and I’ll admit that while I strongly believe to my core that it’s time to close the doors to this ministry, there still lingers a bit of sadness in my heart. <span></span><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/12/a-season-for-everything-my-farewell-to.html#more"></a>Dawn Kinzerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15889724810331740092noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-70630249483578214832020-12-10T00:00:00.001-08:002020-12-10T00:00:04.442-08:00YULE Be Blessed by Patti Jo Moore<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D0gJtrky2PA/X9BRg95CSYI/AAAAAAAABWU/10ZZNKVoyrcgTV0qZxD_9CVyJGGPk68uACLcBGAsYHQ/s272/ChristmasTreeImage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="272" data-original-width="186" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D0gJtrky2PA/X9BRg95CSYI/AAAAAAAABWU/10ZZNKVoyrcgTV0qZxD_9CVyJGGPk68uACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/ChristmasTreeImage.jpg" /></a></div>As the Seriously Write Blog comes to a close, I want to say how very blessed I’ve been getting to know so many of you in this community. Yes, we may have only met online, but I consider you a friend nonetheless.
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When Terri Weldon (waving at this precious lady!) asked me to be a regular contributor, I was humbled and honored. I know I still have much to learn on this writing journey, yet if I can offer even a bit of encouragement to one person, I’m happy to do so. And so, in my final post of Seriously Write, may I offer encouragement to you today. Please don’t give up---no matter where you are in your writing journey. If things are going well for you, be thankful, celebrate, and try to bless others with what you’ve learned along the way. If things are not going well, don’t despair! If you’ve prayed and genuinely feel called to write in this season of your life, keep writing. Many authors go through a “dry season” and go for months (or years) with no writing contracts. Some authors feel the sting of a poor review, while others start second-guessing their writing career. Then, just like the first twinkling lights on a Christmas tree, things begin to look brighter. Maybe a new contract is offered, a writing contest win gives a boost, or readers eagerly ask for more books - - all giving much-needed hope to the author.
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Just as with any career, the writing journey is not always smooth or easy. But if you seek the Lord’s guidance, work hard, and are willing to share what you’ve learned with others, your blessings will abound. Even in a challenging year like 2020, when many are wondering if they’re having a bad dream and will suddenly wake up to a “normal” year, there are still blessings. Lots of them.
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Since Christmas is just around the corner, I want to wish each of you a happy, healthy Christmas - - no matter how different your celebration might look this year. May you feel the joy and peace that comes from being truly thankful for the birth of Jesus Christ. Because if you have Jesus in your life, you are blessed beyond measure.
<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 </i></div><br />
<p class="tweetable">I know I still have much to learn on this writing journey, yet if I can offer even a bit of encouragement to one person, I’m happy to do so. And so, in my final post of Seriously Write, may I offer encouragement to you today.</p>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pMQ1U_mPAqw/X1mHtGTmfMI/AAAAAAAABSc/wrf5EHx-MA8yeXef2wTcOEYrcEsIZXdFgCPcBGAYYCw/s2048/Scrooge%2527s%2BHolly%2BDaze%2BNovella%2BCover%2BPatti%2BJo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1475" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pMQ1U_mPAqw/X1mHtGTmfMI/AAAAAAAABSc/wrf5EHx-MA8yeXef2wTcOEYrcEsIZXdFgCPcBGAYYCw/s320/Scrooge%2527s%2BHolly%2BDaze%2BNovella%2BCover%2BPatti%2BJo.jpg" /></a></div>SCROOGE'S HOLLY DAZE
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Holly Sims loves Christmas and children, so when she’s asked to help plan a Christmas festival for foster children, she’s thrilled. As a newcomer to Pine Valley, North Carolina, Holly is eager to become involved in church activities and meet people. When she continues seeing a handsome but sullen man in town, she’s curious about him. Why does he appear so unhappy?
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Rick Bates is fine with being an introvert. After being shifted from family to family throughout his childhood, he knows he cannot depend or trust anyone and must guard his heart. Running his small business and taking photographs of nature scenes are all he needs in his life. So why does he continue thinking about the auburn-haired woman he keeps seeing?
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When Holly asks Rick to take photos at the Christmas festival, he’s ready to decline—until he learns it’s a festival for foster children. When he arrives at the event, Rick is in awe of the decorations, including countless twinkle lights. But the joy on the children’s faces stirs his heart even more. With help from a Christmas-loving lady, a friendly town, and a kitten named Taco, Rick knows the ice around his heart is melting.
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3JJDYCjfv9c/WqnxaTwabAI/AAAAAAAAAhA/6B2B6GdUB6UJy3MSDl55Hn4_EjM0ydnlgCPcBGAYYCw/s1080/PattiJoFlowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3JJDYCjfv9c/WqnxaTwabAI/AAAAAAAAAhA/6B2B6GdUB6UJy3MSDl55Hn4_EjM0ydnlgCPcBGAYYCw/s320/PattiJoFlowers.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Patti Jo Moore</i></b> is a retired kindergarten teacher and lifelong Georgia girl. She loves Jesus, her family, cats, and coffee, and is blessed to be published with Forget-Me-Not Romances. When she’s not spending time with her family (including her two sweet grandbabies) or writing her “Sweet, Southern Stories” Patti Jo can be found feeding cats—her own six and local strays.
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She loves connecting with readers and other writers, and can be found on Facebook at Author Patti Jo Moore or her personal blog at <a href="http://catmomscorner.blogspot.com">http://catmomscorner.blogspot.com</a>
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Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18195716086187334305noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-72263394998561641902020-12-09T00:00:00.037-08:002020-12-09T00:00:04.629-08:00Purpose-Driven Fiction 8 Questions for Your Writing Journey by Cathy Gohlke<span style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hi0ocB8pCKs/X7vRIpbP0sI/AAAAAAAAGIM/lAzuK0XlOL0SNwyxqjYsaKcWUzZ9VJNoQCLcBGAsYHQ/s553/image004.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="420" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hi0ocB8pCKs/X7vRIpbP0sI/AAAAAAAAGIM/lAzuK0XlOL0SNwyxqjYsaKcWUzZ9VJNoQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/image004.jpg" /></a></div>You want to write fiction; you want your story to matter, to have meaning. You want readers to walk away changed for the better, drawn closer to the Lord, but where to begin? How do we find The Story we’re meant to tell in the midst of the world’s many deep needs?<br /><br />I’m convinced that we are wonderfully made, designed by our loving Father for a unique purpose—and that includes our writing. To help discover your unique story, consider asking these questions: <br /><br /><b>1. What makes me pound the table and weep that also breaks the heart of God?</b> What does He continue to bring to your attention through quiet time with Him or through the news? This will help you focus on a topic. <br /><br /><b>2. </b>I<b>s my heartbreak more for the world or the church?</b> This will help focus your writing for your readership. <br /><br /><b>3. What moves and inspires me to greater heights?</b> This will help your character find their “aha moment”—establishing the needed trajectory of your protagonist’s character arc. <br /><br /><b>4. How has God uniquely prepared me to pursue this passion?</b> What has prepared you emotionally/spiritually, physically/psychologically to write this story? Can you trace God’s preparations in your life’s journey? <br /><br /><b>5. How has God uniquely prepared me to write this specific story?</b> What have you learned, experienced, or done that relates to the characters’ journeys? What are your strengths and your spiritual journey—especially as they might be found in your protagonist or mentor character? What are your insecurities, demons, things you’ve overcome or continue to struggle with that might be found either in your protagonist or your villain? <br /><br />Do you have friends, family, or personal connections to help with your research? <br /><br /><b>6. How do I know what genre to write? </b>What kind of stories best speak life lessons to you? What do you love to read? What did you love to read as a child, as a young person, as a young adult, as an adult? We usually write best what we love to read. <br /><br /><b>7. Which comes first—the need God placed on my heart or the story?</b> Which came first to your mind? <br /><br />If you thought first of the need, ask in what time period, culture, among what type of characters this need would best be played out. Often our natural inclinations and familiarity with people in our lives can answer this. <br /><br />If you thought first of the story, develop the characters you “see” in your head and ask how they would confront or deal with this need in the context of the plot you have in mind. <br /><br /><b>8. What helps my characters grow? </b>Trouble. Give them trouble. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble”—and He wasn’t kidding. Ask what challenges will help your characters grow, change their course of action, repent and surrender in order to allow redemption to take place. That’s the goal of all our stories—the ones we write and the one we live. </span><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><div class="tweetable">
8 Questions to Ask to Discover Your Story via @GohlkeCathy #SeriouslyWrite </div>
</span></div><div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></h3><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">~~~~~~</span></h3><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tuyeR-il4Pk/X7vRSOoznsI/AAAAAAAAGIQ/DdgNemIV9UomTQRfXEuCQVfgsK0Q0xyigCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/978-1-4964-2971-1.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tuyeR-il4Pk/X7vRSOoznsI/AAAAAAAAGIQ/DdgNemIV9UomTQRfXEuCQVfgsK0Q0xyigCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/978-1-4964-2971-1.jpg" /></a></div>Four-time Christy and two-time Carol and INSPY Award–winning author Cathy Gohlke writes <br />novels steeped with inspirational lessons from history. Her stories reveal how people break the chains that bind them and triumph over adversity through faith. When not traveling to historic sites for research, she and her husband, Dan, divide their time between northern Virginia and the Jersey Shore, enjoying time with their grown children and grandchildren. <br /><br />Visit her website at <a href="http://www.cathygohlke.com/">cathygohlke.com</a> and find her on Facebook at CathyGohlkeBooks. <br /><br />LINKS: <br /><br /><a href="https://mediacenter.tyndale.com/p/night-bird-calling/9781496429711">Media Center Link for Night Bird Calling</a> –where you can access Media Alert, Author Q&A, etc. <br /></span></div>Sandra Ardoinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007790799568055828noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-17393494428679005872020-12-08T00:00:00.011-08:002020-12-08T00:00:04.020-08:00Are You Seeking Excellence or Perfection? By Marie Wells Coutu<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OMMi3QrQgdE/XFsgkwCRflI/AAAAAAAABFM/-ZJcYeUSssswd0sY6KgHqmXC0EaQ7nqKwCPcBGAYYCw/s2048/Marie-Wells-Coutu-HR-5.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1367" data-original-width="2048" height="134" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OMMi3QrQgdE/XFsgkwCRflI/AAAAAAAABFM/-ZJcYeUSssswd0sY6KgHqmXC0EaQ7nqKwCPcBGAYYCw/w200-h134/Marie-Wells-Coutu-HR-5.jpg" width="200"></a></div>How long should it take to revise a novel? <div><br></div><div>That’s a loaded question, of course, since very writer is different, every story is different, and every season of life is different. <p></p><p>Given the weirdness of 2020 you may have had much more time to work on your writing this year—or much less.
A more important question is, “How do you know when you’re done revising? When is the manuscript ‘finished’?” </p><span></span></div><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/12/are-you-seeking-excellence-or.html#more"></a>Mary A Felkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08638581580394236129noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-74808462898715507322020-12-07T03:30:00.153-08:002020-12-07T03:30:01.243-08:00Copyediting is Subjective by Annette M. Irby<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D6O02szALd0/X8wNau2kgoI/AAAAAAAAGfs/X3KbemF-BygRUvD7_Seilqe2HRqzRLQDwCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/red%2Bpen%2Bpixabay.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="960" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D6O02szALd0/X8wNau2kgoI/AAAAAAAAGfs/X3KbemF-BygRUvD7_Seilqe2HRqzRLQDwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/red%2Bpen%2Bpixabay.jpg" width="320"></a></div><br><p></p><p>
There are as many editorial preferences as there are editors. <br><br>
Publishers generally have in-house style guides for their editors and authors. Their teams can reference those guides to answer stylistic questions, especially when trusted, outside sources vary or fail to cover the topic in question. <br><br>
Below, I’ll share examples of preferences that may vary among editors and publishers.<br></p><span></span><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/12/copyediting-is-subjective-by-annette-m.html#more"></a>Annette M. Irbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04248109874234508410noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-78218639299622357492020-12-04T00:30:00.001-08:002020-12-04T00:30:03.499-08:00The Battle Belongs to the Lord by Melinda V. Inman<div style="text-align: center;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gJKDiV9B8r4/X7xBO9W-A1I/AAAAAAAAWwM/RP2FOdojQvMGkUjqYyCCzgho06kMFwpywCLcBGAsYHQ/s979/Writer%2BLife.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Meme that says "Writer Life"" border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="979" height="258" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gJKDiV9B8r4/X7xBO9W-A1I/AAAAAAAAWwM/RP2FOdojQvMGkUjqYyCCzgho06kMFwpywCLcBGAsYHQ/w515-h258/Writer%2BLife.jpg" width="515"></a></div><br><span style="font-size: large;">The Battle Belongs to the Lord </span></b></div><br>
In this difficult time, the Lord’s intentions are for our good. He is refining our character and teaching us important truths. As Christians writers, our desire is to learn, to cooperate, and to seek out what He’s trying to get across to us. May we be quick to learn. <span></span><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/12/the-battle-belongs-to-lord-by-melinda-v.html#more"></a>Dawn Kinzerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15889724810331740092noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-38875454847210721342020-12-03T04:36:00.000-08:002020-12-03T04:37:05.689-08:00Friends and Family by Sally Shupe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bN0D8q9MPXA/X8jZgnlCRgI/AAAAAAAABWA/bEzxVNj3OEw8bcoXs0mPh7vFyl_oVUD2ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/hands.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1990" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bN0D8q9MPXA/X8jZgnlCRgI/AAAAAAAABWA/bEzxVNj3OEw8bcoXs0mPh7vFyl_oVUD2ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/hands.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Who do you call on when you need something? Who understands you and supports you, who can you rely on? Who can tell by the look on your face what kind of day you’re having? Friends and family, right? It’s the same for our writing journey, or if we’re going through a rough patch, or trying to accomplish something that seems to be harder than we imagined or thought we could deal with. Friends and family are our backbone, our support system, our encouragers. It would be a very lonely journey without them, wouldn’t it?
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There is a saying, there is safety in numbers. This is so true. When you have something to celebrate, it’s so much more exciting when you can share that with someone. If something happens that’s hard to handle, a disappointment, a let-down, a set-back, it’s easier to walk through if we can share that struggle with someone. For instance, if you receive harsh feedback from a writing contest judge, it’s easier to handle when you can talk about it with people who know your writing. If you’re trying to clean out your closet or organize your craft room or finish writing your first novel, you’ll be kept on track if you share your goals with someone. Then, if you struggle through the process or hit roadblocks, you have someone to commiserate with, someone to keep you accountable. But then when you do finish? You have someone ready to celebrate with you! The more the merrier.
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Find a tribe of people. Reach out to people who write in the same genre as you do. Connect with people who like the same hobbies or who have the same interests. And keep in touch. You never know what someone may be going through, and your contact may be just what they need.
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Is there someone who’s always been there for you? Has someone, or a group of someones, been in your corner and you didn’t know it till you looked up and saw them there? Give them a shout out below. For my writing journey, I have two people who call themselves my number one fans. My best friend Sandy and my son. Without them, I wouldn’t have continued writing once I started. I would have given up before I reached out and found writing friends and groups and special contacts (writing sisters!). Without them, I wouldn’t have completed stories, or continued learning the craft of writing to improve those stories, or continued writing new stories. Sandy and Cory, here’s to you. Thanks for your support, your prayers, being my first-readers, and most of all for your honest feedback.
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When I heard the news that Seriously Write was ending, this was the first thing I thought of. Friends and family. I have so enjoyed my time here. But this isn’t the end. We are friends and family! We may not be able to keep socializing here, but we can connect in other ways. If you need encouragement, someone to cheer with you, someone to pray with you, reach out to me. We’re here for each other on this journey! I would enjoy hearing from you! <div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br />
<p class="tweetable">When I heard the news that Seriously Write was ending, this was the first thing I thought of. Friends and family. I have so enjoyed my time here. But this isn’t the end. We are friends and family!</p>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dO-mhXUJm4s/XZWVBF4TXFI/AAAAAAAAA_c/jpe_4_ZotzwUt-aQ_wEuEMaAI9sbWxM3ACPcBGAYYCw/s960/Sally%2BShupe%2BNew.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dO-mhXUJm4s/XZWVBF4TXFI/AAAAAAAAA_c/jpe_4_ZotzwUt-aQ_wEuEMaAI9sbWxM3ACPcBGAYYCw/s320/Sally%2BShupe%2BNew.jpg" /></a></div><b><i>Sally Shupe</i></b> lives in southwest Virginia with her husband, has two grown kids-a daughter still at home and a son not-so nearby, and a whole bunch of pets: four dogs, three cats, a rabbit, and birds at the birdfeeder (and the mandatory snowman when the snow cooperates). She is an aspiring Christian author of small town contemporary inspirational romance, with two completed manuscripts and several more in progress.
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When Sally’s not writing or working full-time, she is a freelance editor for several authors who write fiction and nonfiction; students working on dissertation papers; a copy editor/content editor for several e-book publishing companies; performs beta reading for various authors; publishes book reviews; is a member of ACFW; and loves genealogy, running, and crocheting.
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Sally publishes weekly blog posts that can be found through her website: <a href="https://sallyshupe.weebly.com/">https://sallyshupe.weebly.com/</a>, and she posts on the first Thursday of the month at <a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com">https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com
</a></div>Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18195716086187334305noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-29629266376729683812020-12-02T00:00:00.012-08:002020-12-02T05:36:59.555-08:00Attention Deficit? by Cherrilynn Bisbano<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-74mAPIQKti0/X6A4Z2Av3bI/AAAAAAAAF9s/RDg_D1wv6q0z_OpglnHlUDxN3ULZ4Q9UQCLcBGAsYHQ/s656/meingreenwithglassesheadshot.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="656" data-original-width="511" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-74mAPIQKti0/X6A4Z2Av3bI/AAAAAAAAF9s/RDg_D1wv6q0z_OpglnHlUDxN3ULZ4Q9UQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/meingreenwithglassesheadshot.jpg"></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">I
couldn’t concentrate. After years of research and my son’s diagnosis of
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD), I finally had the answer to my fidgeting,
unfinished projects, and my urge to blurt things out during a conversation for
fear the words would escape me. I too have ADHD.<span></span></span><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/12/attention-deficit-by-cherrilynn-bisbano.html#more"></a>Sandra Ardoinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007790799568055828noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-7715548700155953692020-12-01T00:00:00.074-08:002020-12-01T00:00:00.181-08:00How to Have It All as a Christian Writer by Emily Conrad<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Xq8ImF9J4U/X8UaD6wQA6I/AAAAAAAA47I/uGkML1AMu4gPgK486PW_yGdVkInGI3UegCLcBGAsYHQ/s940/reading.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Line of books" border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Xq8ImF9J4U/X8UaD6wQA6I/AAAAAAAA47I/uGkML1AMu4gPgK486PW_yGdVkInGI3UegCLcBGAsYHQ/w320-h268/reading.png" width="320"></a></div><br><p></p><p>I’ve had the privilege of talking with a bunch of established novelists this year, and as you might guess, I’ve learned a lot. But perhaps what’s most striking is what I’m unlearning.<span></span></p><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/12/how-to-have-it-all-as-christian-writer.html#more"></a>Emily Conradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17263098241486921751noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-72766525330597723282020-11-30T03:30:00.040-08:002020-11-30T03:30:05.257-08:00First Fruits by Melanie Campbell<div><p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://melaniecampbellauthor.org/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1730" data-original-width="1155" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2RoDmsxQXD4/X8PpmY02TcI/AAAAAAAAGfQ/FHqB1mumi_gj_d6R-AewFJpJ2nqAtarQQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Melanie%2BCampbell%2B.jpeg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://melaniecampbellauthor.org/" target="_blank">Melanie Campbell<br /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p>
One old piece of writing advice is to “write what you know.” The worthiness of said advice is up for interpretation. In my Whispers of Grace series, I’ve taken what I know—both literally and emotionally—and created a trilogy of stories. The stories are deep, yet full of hope. Though many say they can’t put the books down, these are not light or easy reads. One of my goals was to take the reader on a journey in the life of someone they otherwise may not be able to identify with. It’s what I believe God gave me the ability to do. <br /><br />
One Way Home, the second book in my series, was released on November 1. Who knew my second book would be released in the middle of a pandemic, political upheaval, and economic uncertainty? In the midst of such sorrow, who wants to read an emotional book about a recovering alcoholic? As my sales numbers remain discouraging, I’ve questioned God’s timing on the release of this book. <br /><br />
This is the faultiness of my human, earthly thinking. <br /><br />
In Deuteronomy 26:9-11, the Israelites are commanded to allow the first crops to ripen just prior to harvest. They were then to offer those crops as an act of worship and as a blessing on the rest of the harvest. The Whispers of Grace series are my first published books. I’ve given them to God. All my profits from the first book, One Woman Falling, are being donated to charities who assist families affected by abuse and addiction. <br /><br />
You see, these books are not about sales numbers or best-seller’s lists. God gave me a ministry in the writing of these stories, a mission to reach others with a message of hope in real-life situations that seem impossible to overcome. I have poured my own life experiences, my complete heart, my best writing, into these stories. They are for Him and His purposes, not my own. These are my first fruits. <br /><br />
In James 1:17-18, James says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of his creatures.” (ESV version)<br /><br />
Every good gift, including the stories God gives us to tell, comes from the Father of light. There is no variation or shadow due to change. The turmoil of the year 2020 doesn’t stop God from doing His work or His truth from being known. His light shines in the darkness. The work that is from Him is eternal, unhindered by the times in which it was birthed.<br /><br />
I know my books will end up in the hands of readers who need them, whether it be today or ten years from now. From God’s good, eternal hands into the hearts of those who need hope. <br /><br />
<p class="tweetable">I have poured my own life experiences, my complete heart, my best writing, into these stories. They are for Him and His purposes, not my own. These are my first fruits. <span class="css-901oao css-16my406 r-1qd0xha r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-qvutc0">@MelanieJean_27 </span>#amwriting</p> </div><div style="text-align: center;">
~~~~~<br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/One-Home-Whispers-Grace-Book-ebook/dp/B08HWJWX7S/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=one+way+home+melanie+campbell&qid=1606675141&sr=8-1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1324" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XUDO7AzW13g/X8PqVd13MmI/AAAAAAAAGfg/x-YVIa2UEvwl1p4erz45-uRecqOxENeEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/One%2BWay%2BHome%2BCover.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/One-Home-Whispers-Grace-Book-ebook/dp/B08HWJWX7S/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=one+way+home+melanie+campbell&qid=1606675141&sr=8-1" target="_blank">One Way Home<br /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
She’s hanging by a string—with only one chance left.<br /><br />
A recovering alcoholic and longtime widow, Sharon has struggled to build a new life. She’s made amends with her only daughter, Cassie, who’s been through a treacherous divorce. Cassie’s daughter, Renee, too young to understand her grandmother’s earlier mistakes, has become the light of Sharon’s life.<br /><br />
But Sharon can’t seem to escape from her past. Her mother’s deathbed confession haunts her. Convinced the answer to truly overcoming her addiction lies with her biological father, Sharon sends off a DNA test in the hope of finding him. When the results of the test aren’t as revealing as Sharon anticipates, she and Cassie team up to find the truth.<br /><br />
Meanwhile an old flame shows up. Sharon doesn’t think she can ever love again, but what Johnny offers seems like a dream come true. His charm and kindness shine so bright, Sharon can almost believe he’s changed.<br /><br />
As the search for her father continues to frustrate and tensions escalate with Cassie, Sharon wonders if leaving it all behind for a life with Johnny will save her crumbling heart.<br /><br />
Will the truth set Sharon free? Or it will it be the final blow to her sobriety?<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">
~~~~~<br /></div><br />
<a href="https://melaniecampbellauthor.org/" target="_blank">Melanie Campbell</a> is a member of Oregon Christian Writers and ACFW. Her debut novel, One Woman Falling, won the 2020 Oregon Christian Writer’s Cascade Award for contemporary fiction and was a finalist for the Selah Award for first novel. One Way Home, the second novel in her Whispers of Grace series, released November 1, 2020. Melanie is passionate about social issues and holds a degree in Sociology from the University of Oregon, which she obtained during her stint as a single mom. She’s now married and lives in Oregon’s beautiful Willamette Valley with her family and several spoiled pets.
</div>Annette M. Irbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04248109874234508410noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-83434642164241594832020-11-29T03:30:00.054-08:002020-11-29T03:30:02.209-08:00Announcement from Seriously Write<p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ffOllB7KfXI/X6A85QNa_xI/AAAAAAAAGd8/AGjDYiG1MIoYGeltsN03EB5FufgwnDyBACNcBGAsYHQ/s510/announcement%2Bpixabay.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="510" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ffOllB7KfXI/X6A85QNa_xI/AAAAAAAAGd8/AGjDYiG1MIoYGeltsN03EB5FufgwnDyBACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/announcement%2Bpixabay.webp" width="320" /></a></p><p></p><p>Hi, everyone. Annette here. I'll share more later, but I wanted you to be the first to know that we've decided to close Seriously Write as of late December 2020. A lot of prayer and conversation went into this decision because we hostesses have been committed to bringing encouragement for your writing journey for well over eleven years. <br /></p><p>I'll share more in my final post on December 21, 2020. Until then, you can continue to expect fresh content every weekday, as always, from our regular contributors, guests, and hostesses. </p><p>Thank you for visiting Seriously Write. Write on, friends!</p><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Make a careful exploration of who you are and <br />the work you have been given, <br />and then sink yourself into that. <br />Don’t be impressed with yourself. <br />Don’t compare yourself with others. <br />Each of you must take responsibility for doing <br />the creative best you can with your own life.</b></i></p><p style="text-align: center;">Galatians 6:4-5 MSG</p>Annette M. Irbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04248109874234508410noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-28134448501169550482020-11-27T00:30:00.001-08:002020-11-27T00:30:03.782-08:00A Child Was Born by Pattie Frampton<div style="text-align: center;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jmKB18Ud6xA/X71WyLJFQII/AAAAAAAAWw8/uIJuEvTogDkV3xUHZ5RH5iZeeHaFDINggCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/AdobeStock_286213709.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Photo of the Nativity" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="497" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jmKB18Ud6xA/X71WyLJFQII/AAAAAAAAWw8/uIJuEvTogDkV3xUHZ5RH5iZeeHaFDINggCLcBGAsYHQ/w497-h497/AdobeStock_286213709.jpeg" width="497"></a></div><br><span style="font-size: x-large;">A Child Was Born </span></b></div><br>
We all know the story. It has been told in various ways over the years. In song, movies, books. Some of us learned of it in Sunday school. Others from Linus in his impassioned speech alongside a sorry little Christmas tree. In some way, shape or form, the Christmas story has reached all of us. <br><br>
A child was born. <span></span><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/11/a-child-was-born-by-pattie-frampton.html#more"></a>Dawn Kinzerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15889724810331740092noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-91205871134295951422020-11-26T00:00:00.001-08:002020-11-26T00:00:00.980-08:00Happy Thanksgiving!<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nWlnFo2AZxY/Xd9z4wEYNyI/AAAAAAAABCM/iqWdqFZkE-ENPFE7vCLcR3vBQkcA8Mi5wCPcBGAYYCw/s2719/74EDD314-5CF2-4139-909B-7764F7E4B909.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1156" data-original-width="2719" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nWlnFo2AZxY/Xd9z4wEYNyI/AAAAAAAABCM/iqWdqFZkE-ENPFE7vCLcR3vBQkcA8Mi5wCPcBGAYYCw/s320/74EDD314-5CF2-4139-909B-7764F7E4B909.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b>Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.
Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
-Psalm 100 </b></i></div></b></i></div><br />
Seriously Write is closed today to allow us to spend the holiday with our family and friends. We wish you a blessed and safe Thanksgiving. We will be back tomorrow and look forward to visiting with you then.
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Happy Thanksgiving from the Seriously Write TeamTerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18195716086187334305noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-47405950119964300182020-11-25T00:00:00.126-08:002020-11-25T00:00:03.489-08:00How I Write a Novel by Elva Cobb Martin<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oyb_eaM4RE8/X7vJLyNpx4I/AAAAAAAAGGo/4OXWAthJxzwAkzfC4PQHvjKN7mSEOuWCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/Elva%2BMartin.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="302" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oyb_eaM4RE8/X7vJLyNpx4I/AAAAAAAAGGo/4OXWAthJxzwAkzfC4PQHvjKN7mSEOuWCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Elva%2BMartin.jpg"></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Writing a novel is no easy task. Do I hear some amen’s from the back row? Having just finished my fifth novel’s first draft, I now have a workable plan that I stick to in order to get a novel finished on time. BTW, the FIRST novel was the hardest to finish, so don’t give up. Get that first one done, and it does get easier. ( : <br><br>Here are tested and tried tips that work well for me. </span><br><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/11/how-i-write-novel-by-elva-cobb-martin.html#more"></a>Sandra Ardoinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007790799568055828noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-49728328435985827522020-11-24T00:00:00.062-08:002020-11-24T00:00:00.538-08:00Confident in the Write Way by Emily Wickham<p style="text-align: center;"> <b>Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God” (2 Corinthians 3:5, NASB)</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Do20nb3Ox-g/XD-HmBw-IGI/AAAAAAAAA98/-YyYTZ6C2hEL-DUtbcwNVY3PFlMrW2JAwCPcBGAYYCw/s2048/EW%2Bimage.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1379" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Do20nb3Ox-g/XD-HmBw-IGI/AAAAAAAAA98/-YyYTZ6C2hEL-DUtbcwNVY3PFlMrW2JAwCPcBGAYYCw/w134-h200/EW%2Bimage.jpeg" width="134"></a></div>Sitting at the traffic light, I was frustrated when the green signal repeatedly skipped my lane. I thought I knew how to solve the problem although I questioned my instinct. I also was blocked in by other vehicles. Finally, however, an opening emerged that enabled me to move forward. Now at the head of the line, I pulled up far enough to trip the light. Sure enough, our signal turned green in the next cycle. <p></p><p>I was elated, feeling great about my success even though I hadn’t been entirely confident at the outset. </p><p>Writers also encounter problems and question their sense of how to respond. </p><span></span><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/11/confident-in-write-way-by-emily-wickham.html#more"></a>Mary A Felkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08638581580394236129noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-5499502874868330692020-11-23T00:00:00.001-08:002020-11-23T00:00:05.501-08:00What Happened to my Handwriting Skills?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cPZHEvWQb48/XuqwiEHx4nI/AAAAAAAAYqM/oTTKJ5o99y07EYRmaE5io7cMxHHC-7F-gCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_20200524_095550-2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cPZHEvWQb48/XuqwiEHx4nI/AAAAAAAAYqM/oTTKJ5o99y07EYRmaE5io7cMxHHC-7F-gCPcBGAYYCw/s200/IMG_20200524_095550-2.jpg" width="181"></a></div><p>My computer sits on the desk waiting for me. I have my writing area near a window so I can glance outside from time to time and enjoy the view of the neighborhood. People taking leisurely walks, children creating fun designs with sidewalk chalk, and delivery trucks stopping to leave packages on doorsteps.</p><p>I try to write(type) every day. Stories, devotions, articles and more. Most of that writing is done on the computer. However, I do enjoy writing snail mail to friends and family. A postcard, a note, a special celebration card or thinking of you card are all included in my daily writing.<br><br>
</p><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/11/what-happened-to-my-handwriting-skills.html#more"></a>Melissa Hendersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05180284059716992887noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-60267242052306725842020-11-20T00:30:00.001-08:002020-11-20T00:30:03.417-08:00Finding Inspiration by JoAnn Durgin<h2 style="text-align: center;"><b><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xKqaPUZzdbE/X7Bu7N7AqzI/AAAAAAAAWt4/TiWjP2qkpEMaagYDlhAf-6wa8jaH29FeACLcBGAsYHQ/s360/Mark%2BTwain%2BRiverboat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="360" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xKqaPUZzdbE/X7Bu7N7AqzI/AAAAAAAAWt4/TiWjP2qkpEMaagYDlhAf-6wa8jaH29FeACLcBGAsYHQ/w523-h348/Mark%2BTwain%2BRiverboat.jpg" title="Mark Twain Riverboat" width="523"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Mark Twain Riverboat</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br>Finding Inspiration </b></h2><div><br></div><div>Some of the world’s most notable authors have found inspiration for their literary success in interesting (and sometimes peculiar) ways. Here are a few examples. <span></span></div><a href="https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2020/11/finding-inspiration-by-joann-durgin.html#more"></a>Dawn Kinzerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15889724810331740092noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441847471860251025.post-23467726453080396282020-11-19T02:00:00.001-08:002020-11-19T02:00:06.462-08:00Thanksgiving 2020 - What Are You Thankful For? by Terri Weldon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QInLpSxxGqk/X7Y_u4CBdxI/AAAAAAAABVs/1o4YN9EU-7UXmSKlIloi4JOa6J2ctYeJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Westie%2BThanksgiving.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="404" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QInLpSxxGqk/X7Y_u4CBdxI/AAAAAAAABVs/1o4YN9EU-7UXmSKlIloi4JOa6J2ctYeJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Westie%2BThanksgiving.jpg" /></a></div>2020 has been a year for the record books and it is all too easy to focus on the negative. Since Seriously Write will be closed on Thanksgiving Day in the United States, I wanted to take a minute to talk about our blessings today. Then we can take the week leading up to Thanksgiving to reflect on the good things in our lives.
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1. God is still soverign. No matter what happens we can hold firm and fast to that truth.
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2. My household is COVID-19 free. In the state I live in the virus is running rampant, so I'm very thankful for a healthy family. <div><br />
3. I have a roof over my head and plenty of food to eat. Things I take for granted, but necessities many don't possess.
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4. Friends I can keep in touch with via technology even when I'm not able to see them face to face.
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But wait, Seriously Write is geared toward writers. So how does this apply? Here are a few writing blessings I'm thankful for.
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1. More time to write. Normally my calendar is jampacked with more to do than I can get done. A slower paced life, even if it is forced on me, provides more writing time. Now to make myself take advantage of that writing time. 😉 <br /><br />
2. More online opportunities for learning than I've ever seen before! I attended two conferences and countless workshops.
<br /><br />
3. NaNoWriMo. I'm not participating this year, but I've seen some fabulous word counts.
<br /><br />4. Trusting God like never before to decide which direction to take my writing.
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a. Traditionally published or focus on indie. I'm not telling yet!
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b. Trying a different genre. There is a genre I've been wanting to try for quite some time and I'm going to give it a whirl!
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What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?
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I hope you and your family have a blessed and safe Thanksgiving Day.
<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; His love endures forever. - 1 Chronicles 16:34 </i></div><br />
<p class="tweetable">Trusting God like never before to decide which direction to take my writing.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1YLNDD8sTI0/WSZgGB50wyI/AAAAAAAAAVs/9JJai3uzLcYiS2R1vRRwpTEWf0c2lCZ_wCPcBGAYYCw/s2048/The_Matchmakers%2BCover.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1YLNDD8sTI0/WSZgGB50wyI/AAAAAAAAAVs/9JJai3uzLcYiS2R1vRRwpTEWf0c2lCZ_wCPcBGAYYCw/s320/The_Matchmakers%2BCover.jpg" /></a></div><b><i>A Match Made in Sheffield</i> </b></div><div><b>by Terri Weldon</b></div><div><div><br /></div><div>Natalie Benton bounced from one foster home to another until she landed on Ellie Alexander’s doorstep. Natalie’s vagabond childhood caused her to yearn for a secure life, which led to Natalie’s five-year plan: complete her law degree, marry the perfect man, become a partner at Montgomery, Haynes, and Preston, and produce one child. Getting arrested wasn’t in Natalie’s plan. Needing a public defender wasn’t in her plan. Falling for Grady Hunter, her public defender, definitely wasn’t in her plan. Can Grady convince Natalie there is more to life than her five-year plan? Is Ellie the only one who sees a future for Natalie and Grady?
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g6lH46Tz0IE/WGSGsDfnSQI/AAAAAAAAAPE/YbOEMRJHSeIWN5lXlGxrLMj4ymujlrq7gCPcBGAYYCw/s2048/Terri%2BWeldon%2B2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g6lH46Tz0IE/WGSGsDfnSQI/AAAAAAAAAPE/YbOEMRJHSeIWN5lXlGxrLMj4ymujlrq7gCPcBGAYYCw/s320/Terri%2BWeldon%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b><i>Terri Weldon</i></b> feels blessed to be a full time writer. She enjoys traveling, gardening, reading, and shopping for shoes. One of her favorite pastimes is volunteering as the librarian at her church. It allows her to shop for books and spend someone else’s money! Plus, she has the great joy of introducing people to Christian fiction. She lives with her family in the Heartland of the United States. Terri is a member of ACFW and RWA.
Readers can connect with Terri on her Website: <a href="http://www.TerriWeldon.com">www.TerriWeldon.com</a> </div></div>Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18195716086187334305noreply@blogger.com