Running In Place by Terri Weldon

How many news stories, blog posts, and social media rants have you read about COVID lately? If you’re like me the answer is - too many. I’ve had to limit the number of times a day that I allow myself to read about COVID-19. Social media posts for the most part are just tossed aside. No way I’m getting caught up in those arguments! 😊 And blog posts, well I remind myself that to the author it is only one, the one they’ve written. Besides, those are far more interesting than the news or social media posts.

Being at home all the time has left me feeling off balance. It doesn’t matter what time I go to bed or get up. There’s no where I need to be. I feel like I’m running in place. Giving it my all, but getting no where fast.

Unfortunately, my writing is mirroring my life. I edit, and then I’m asked by my most trusted critique buddy, “Did you read this chapter after you edited it?” I continue to work on my plot, but when I try to align my edits with my plot changes nothing works. I’m running, but I’m not moving. I’m stuck in the same place.

Those are the days I begin to wonder if this writing gig is worth the effort. It is. For me. I realize there are others who have walked away from writing. And you know what? If that’s the right choice for them, then more power to them. So today I had a chat with my friend and we worked on my plot. I may not always like what she tells me, but I trust her implicitly. Find someone you trust that much. It may take time, but keep looking. Remember, you need to be that kind of writing buddy in return. If your friend isn’t a writer, support them in whatever endeavor they pursue.

Because my friend has me excited about working on my manuscript. I no longer feel hopeless or like I want to give up. Now instead of running in place I’m jogging down the path toward the finish line.

Have you ever felt like you were running in place? How did you break free? I’d love to hear your tips.

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. – I Corinthians 9:24

Amazon Buy Link

A Match Made in Sheffield

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?

Terri Weldon is blessed to be able to write fulltime. She enjoys gardening, reading, working jigsaw puzzles, 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 Oklahoma. Terri has an adorable Westies – Crosby. She is a member of ACFW and OCFW, a local chapter of ACFW. Terri is the award winning author of The Christmas Bride Wore Boots.

Readers can connect with Terri at her Website or here at Seriously Write.

Things I'm Thankful For by Terri Weldon

On Thursday, November 28th, Americans will sit down at their tables and have a wonderful meal with family and friends as we celebrate Thanksgiving.

Since Seriously Write will be closed I thought I’d share a few of the writing things I’m thankful for with you today.

1. The Gift of Writing – I’m so thankful God has blessed me with the gift of writing. Penning stories may be overwhelming at times but it is a true joy.

2. My Sister – she also happens to be my number one fan and encourager. At times she is also my harshest critic. I’m thankful for her encouragement and honesty.

3. Writing Friends – it’s a blessing to have friends who understand what it means to be a writer. Friends who don’t blink an eye when you ask for a way to murder someone that starts with a T. Instead they start brainstorming with you!

4. A Mentor – I’ve been blessed to be mentored by an extremely talented author who has helped me improve my writing.

And last, but not least

5. Seriously Write – I’m blessed to be a part of a wonderful blog. The four women, Annette Irby, Mary Felkins, Sandra Ardoin, and Dawn Kinzer, who host on the other days of the week are talented, fun, and such a blessing. Another Seriously Write blessing is my two regular contributors, Sally Shupe and Patti Jo Moore. Life is so much nicer since they’ve joined the Thursday team!

What writing things are you thankful for? I’d love to hear all about them.

Amazon Link

A Match Made In Sheffield (The Matchmakers)

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?

Terri Weldon feels blessed to be a full time writer. She enjoys traveling, 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 has two adorable Westies – Crosby and Nolly Grace. Terri is a member of ACFW and RWA.

Refreshment for a Writer's Soul by Terri Weldon

Beautiful Lake Eufaula

Last Thursday through Sunday I was blessed to attend a fabulous retreat at Lake Eufaula with ten other members of my local ACFW Chapter. The home we were able to stay in, thanks to our lovely treasurer Shannon, was gorgeous and the property was literally lake front. Our vice-president, Kat, had an airtight itinerary guaranteed to ensure we made maximum use of our time. All the meals were preselected and we rotated cooking.

Our retreat Cabin

Sound rigid? Originally, I thought, whoa, there is no way I want to be on a schedule that regimented. I’m a night owl, no way I will ever make it up that early in the morning for breakfast. Then I learned we were expected to read five pages aloud on both Friday and Saturday evening! Whoa, I didn’t sign up for this.

Jessica Preparing to Read her five pages

Guess what? I made it to breakfast every morning. I read five pages aloud both Friday and Saturday night. I didn’t read for entertainment. I threw myself into my writing and at night late in my room I only read craft articles. I marveled at the talent of the other ten authors. They inspired me and I revised more of my manuscript in those few short days then I had managed in months.

I hope I developed new friendships at the retreat. Relationships that will continue to flourish. I found joy in discussing scenes and plots with others. It was the perfect atmosphere to see if ideas or changes made sense. I watched one friend begin a new novel and her tenacity and attention to detail impressed me. When she read her five pages Saturday evening, they nearly brought me to tears. I’m can’t wait to read her entire book.

I’m still pumped and busy revising. Can I revise eight hours a day like I did during the retreat? No, I’m back in the real world now. However, I can revise every day. I can still set goals, and Lord willing I can meet those goals.

Partial Group Shot

A few takeaways from the retreat: it’s wonderful to be with a group you can pray with; there is life without television; we were in the country and quiet can be a good thing; I can sit and revise or write for more hours than I thought possible; accountability is a good thing; and being with other writers is nourishment for my soul.

View from my balcony

If your local chapter hasn’t hosted a writing retreat then see about organizing one for your group with the help of a couple of buddies. If you have an opportunity to attend a writing retreat go for it! Two of my friends practically had to browbeat me into attending this one and missing it would have been a huge mistake.

Have you attended a writing retreat? If so, tell me all about it. Where was it? Was it beneficial? Drop me a comment and let me know!

Terri Weldon 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 has two adorable Westies – Crosby and Nolly Grace. Terri is a member of ACFW and RWA.

Readers can connect with Terri on her Website

Do You Remember Your First Story Idea by Terri Weldon

Hey, folks, I'm sick and unable to come up with a new post. That said, I hope you'll enjoy reading an oldie that I consider to be a goodie. 

I still remember the idea for my first book. My creative mind had been soaking up every word of the contemporary Christian romances I had started reading. Then suddenly I devised a story idea. It was over the top, gut wrenching, and filled with angst. A daughter abandoned by her prostitute mother is determined to confront the woman she hates, the woman she blames for everything wrong in her life. When she lands on her mother’s door step, it’s too late. She learns her mother has died.

Time for total honesty here – I still like the storyline! At the time I wrote the book the plot was too difficult for me. The book needed a more experienced author. Trust me there was much more to the storyline than I told you above. 

I waited a few years. I even penned my first book, which resides in a drawer in an old filing cabinet. Then Love Inspired Romance advertised a contest. All I had to do was send in my completed manuscript, and if I won, I could become a published author. Oh, hope springs eternal. As fast as possible I penned the entire book and carted it down to my local post office. When the winner of the contest was announced, her name wasn’t Terri Weldon. 

Even after that I didn’t give up. I probably didn’t write as much as I should have and I let too much time elapse, but I didn’t throw in the towel. Even today I’m still plugging along. Sometimes I miss the young woman who wrote that novel with such confidence.  In my heart I knew I was destined to be published and I believed it would happen. And it did, but not for many many years and not with that book. 

Still, no matter how many new story ideas I come up with, I don’t think any of them will ever replace the excitement I felt when I devised the first one. 

What about you? What was your first story idea? I’d love to hear all about it. 

Ellie Alexander is in love. And the only thing sweeter would be if Libby, Natalie, and Stephanie, her three unmarried, unattached granddaughters, could find the same happiness. Maybe with a little help from her and her beau Blake Parker . . .

A Match Made in Williamstown by Lady of Love Inspired Romance Jean C. Gordon — Libby Schuyler has avoided dating since her break-up with college-sweetheart Jack Parker. Out of nowhere, Jack shows up claiming Ellie is swindling his grandfather, Blake, through a travel agency partnership they’ve formed. Libby and Jack team up to protect their grandparents and get to the bottom of Ellie and Blake’s business and romantic relationship. While Libby and Jack fight their reignited attraction, Ellie and Blake conspire to bring the two together.

A Match Made in Sheffield by Terri Weldon— 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?

A Match Made in Freedom by Lisa Belcastro — Stephanie Gould loves life on Martha’s Vineyard . . . until she runs into Kay and Tim, her former business partner and her ex-fiancé, who just returned from their honeymoon. Surprised by the heartache she thought was gone, Stephanie heads to the Berkshires to visit family and friends. Arriving in Stockbridge, Stephanie meets Captain Henry Lewis. Little does Stephanie know, her grandmother has already met Henry, and Ellie thinks Henry is perfect. Stephanie has no interest in dating, Henry included. If only Henry didn’t turn up everywhere Stephanie goes. When he walks up beside her at the Norman Rockwell Museum, Stephanie can’t deny her attraction, but she’ll do her best to fight it.

Buy Links

Amazon Kindle & Print: http://amzn.to/2pb4HuK 

Nook, iBooks & Kobo: https://www.books2read.com/u/3neJnB
Barnes & Noble Print: http://bit.ly/2qbmqEtMatchmakers  

Terri Weldon is a lead analyst by day and an author by night. She enjoys 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 Oklahoma. Terri has two adorable Westies – Crosby and Nolly Grace. She is a member of ACFW and OCFW, a local chapter of ACFW. Terri is the award winning author of The Christmas Bride Wore Boots.

Readers can connect with Terri: Website: www.TerriWeldon.com or Blog: Seriously Write 

What My Westie Taught Me About Writing by Terri Weldon

While trying to decide what to write my blog post about I noticed my Westie stretched out on the floor enjoying a nap. It suddenly occurred to me that Crosby was quite the writing instructor. In fact, he has taught me several things.

1. NEVER Give Up. When Crosby wants something he never gives up. And guess what? The majority of the time he gets what he wants. I’ll give you an example. We purchased new living room furniture. No one stays in the living room. We spend all our time in the TV room. So, I decided Crosby could only get on the ottomans. That way my new accent pillows would look plump and attractive longer. He played along at first. Then one day I walked through the living room and he was on the love seat stretched out across my beautiful new pillows. Of course, I made him get down. Was that the end of it? No way. He kept going back to those pillows. And now there is one member of my family who ignores it when he’s on the pillows and my resolve is weakening. How does this relate to writing? Be persistent. Keep going after what you want. There are a lot of talented writers out there, but it’s the writer who refuses to toss away her keyboard that succeeds.

2. Know Your STRENGTHS. Crosby is cute and he knows it! I don’t know how, but from a young age he knew if he stood on his back feet, put his front paws on the arm of my chair, laid his little chin on his paws, and looked at me with those big dark eyes he could pretty much write his own ticket. CAUTION do not try this with editors and agents. That is absolutely not what I’m saying. But know what you’re good at and write that. Colleen Coble is a master with setting. Sharon Srock, Women’s Fiction Author, writes about friendships between ladies that will make you want to be a member of their clique. Find your strength in writing and work to master it.

3. ENJOY All Aspects of Your Life. Crosby loves to ride in the car, eat, be petted, play outside, and go walkies. Make sure you have balance in your life. Don’t let your writing take over your relationship with God or your family. Go on a date with your spouse, take the teenagers to the latest Avenger movie, or go shopping and have lunch with your sister.

Do let writing come before activities you don’t enjoy. When I first started writing I wrote fast and had a blast. I couldn’t wait to get those words on paper. There was no internal editor looking over my shoulder. Write your first draft with that abandon.

Create a writing schedule and do your best to follow it. Tailor the schedule to suit your life. If you work at a day job you aren’t going to have the hours to devote to writing that a fulltime author will. Don’t compare yourself to others. I can guarantee you Crosby never compares himself to another puppy on the street and finds himself lacking.

Do you have a pet? Have they taught you anything about the writing life? I’d love to hear your story and see a picture of your fur baby.

Terri Weldon 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 has two adorable Westies – Crosby and Nolly Grace. Terri is a member of ACFW and RWA.

Readers can connect with Terri: Website: www.terriweldon.com or Blog: Seriously Write or Facebook

Do You Ever Feel Like a Fraud by Terri Weldon

Fraud - a person who is not what he or she pretends to be: imposter

 

I'll let you in on a little secret, sometimes when I tell people I'm a writer, I feel like a fraud. Case in point, when I purchased my new laptop I explained to the salesman I needed the laptop for writing not gaming. Then he asked me what I wrote. I replied, "Christian suspense."

 

Well, when he asked me if I wrote like Ted Dekker I wanted to sink into the floor. Then to top it off he added Frank Peretti to the mix. By then surely there was a scarlet F for FRAUD emblazoned on my shirt. I believe I mumbled something about wishing I wrote like them.

 

I didn't want to confess the mobility and freedom the laptop would afford me would help boost my word count.

 

Lately I've had definite issues with productivity in my writing life. I plan to write, I want to write, but I don't actually write.

 

Why?

 

Believe me, I wish I knew. I've come up with four possibilities.

 

1. Maybe writing was my calling for a season and that season is past.

 

2. Maybe I'm procrastinating because I'm not good enough.

 

3. Maybe I'm a hobby writer and not a "real" writer.

 

4. Maybe I just need to focus or set (and keep) office hours.

 

Those are questions that only I can answer. If you're having any of the same doubts then only you, with God's help, can answer them for you. But I do have a few suggestions to finding the answers. Pray and seek God's will. Tell Him your concerns. He will help you and guide you to the correct answers.

 

As for me, this is where I currently stand.

 

1. The fear that my calling to write was over distressed me. I WANT to write. I have story ideas and books in my mind waiting to be written. I don't believe my time as a writer is finished. 

 

2. If God called me then I'm good enough.

 

3. I am a "real" writer. As long as the devil can make me feel inadequate than I won't be productive.

 

4. I definitely need to focus and I definitely need office hours. I've tried setting them and not keeping them - doesn't help a bit. I battle staying on track. Discipline is key to my being successful as an author.  

 

As for the question the salesman asked me about writing like Ted Dekker or Frank Peretti . . . I'll probably always say I wish. But you know what - I write like Terri Weldon. God created each of us and we are all unique so no two of us should write alike.

 

Currently I'm working on a project that I'm excited about. Hopefully I'll have it finished by the end of summer at the latest.

 

And as far as feeling like a fraud, well I doubt those feelings will go away overnight, but with time, prayer, and words on the page I think they'll diminish.

 

I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 3:14 (NIV)

 

How about you, do you ever feel like a fraud? If so leave a comment on how you overcome. I hope everyone's answer is a resounding no. If you don't let me know that as well. I promise, I'll still like you. 😉 

 

Terri Weldon 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 has two adorable Westies – Crosby and Nolly Grace. Terri is a member of ACFW and RWA.

Readers can connect with Terri: Website: www.TerriWeldon.com or Blog: Seriously Write

 



Story Ideas by Terri Weldon

Have you ever read a book and wondered where or how the author came up with the idea? Boy I have – on more than one occasion. And usually right after that I’m wondering why I don’t have their story genius. 

Ideas for books often come to me in strange places. I came up with one story idea while having my hair done. What would happen if my hair dresser decided to give me my final haircut and then kill me? Frustrated with a job I had at the time, I came up with the idea of a woman whose actions propel her career forward in a most dishonest way. And I’ve had so many story ideas pop into my mind in the shower that I wish I could find a waterproof notepad!

I have more story ideas then I’ll ever be able to write. In fact, there are so many that I’ve been reduced to keeping them in a file labeled ideas in my desk. You never know when they’ll come in handy. Oh, I wish I was productive enough to pen the plethora of books those ideas represent. While that’s doubtful I still keep them. 

A friend of mine who is a much more prolific writer than I am says she never has more than one idea at a time. She believes God provides the ideas as she needs them. It is obviously working for her, she’s a wonderful author who publishes steadily. 

What about you? Where do you come up with your story ideas? Are you like me and have ideas waiting in the wings? Or are you like my friend and only have one idea at a time? I hope you’ll leave a comment and let me know.

The Matchmakers: A Match Made In Sheffield

Natalie Benton bounced from one foster home to another until she landed on Ellie Alexander’s doorstep. Her 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?

Amazon Buy Link: The Matchmakers
   

Terri Weldon is a lead analyst by day and an author by night. She enjoys gardening, reading, and shopping for shoes – a habit she really needs to break. Problem is they make new, cute ones every season. 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 Oklahoma. Terri has two adorable Westies – or they have her, she’s never sure which. Terri is a member of Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers. Her dream of becoming a published author came true when her novella Mistletoe Magic was published. 

Merry Christmas by Terri Weldon

It’s almost midnight and I should have been writing this post weeks ago. Instead I’ve been running around shopping, meeting friends, decorating, reading books and watching way too many Hallmark movies!

It’s all too easy to get so busy that we forget why we’re doing all this celebrating. Jesus came to earth as a baby. He left His throne in heaven to live a human life without sin so that ultimately He could bear our sins.

When I think of that incredible gift my Christmas list full of things I don’t even need seems pretty insignificant. And the gifts I can offer others pale by comparison. 

I pray this Christmas that you’ll find a quiet place, take a few minutes, and focus on God’s gift to us. Then with a heart full of peace, enjoy your time with family and friends.

How do you stay focused on the true meaning of Christmas? Do you enjoy the holidays or find them overwhelming?

LOOKING FOR A LAUGH OUT LOUD CHRISTMAS BOOK?

Mistletoe Magic

 

Misty Winslow is determined to find her prince, and she meets the man of her dreams through an Internet dating service. Or is he, because the new dentist in town also sets her heart aflutter. It's love at first sight for Tyler Davenport, but before he can finish his first root canal, Misty is involved in an exclusive online romance with Wes99—Tyler's online persona. How can he tell her he's the man she's been waiting to meet, and how rational is it for him to be jealous of Wes99! Soon Tyler's pulling out all the stops to woo Misty. As Christmas approaches, Wes99 and Tyler both ask her to meet them under the mistletoe. Which man will she choose?

Amazon Buy Link

The Christmas Bride Wore Boots

Pastor Jacob Thompson is in need of a director for the living nativity program and veterinarian Molly Kincaid offers to take on the job. The task involves far more than Molly bargained for, nonetheless she’d do anything to help out the man she secretly loves – even sew costumes or cast eight-year-old Wesley Simpson as an angel.

Jacob’s daughter Emma longs to have a mommy of her own, but the widowed pastor has vowed to never remarry, and isn’t ready to open his heart to love again. Molly dreams of filling the void in both their lives, but fears she lacks the necessary qualities to be a pastor’s wife.

As Molly and Jacob work together on the living nativity, their feelings for one another grow. Will Molly realize she is just what Jacob and Emma need in their lives? Can Jacob be released from his grief stricken promise? Could this unlikely duo prove to be a match made in heaven?
Amazon Buy Link

Terri Weldon 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 has two adorable Westies – Crosby and Nolly Grace. Terri is a member of ACFW and RWA.

Readers can connect with Terri: Website: www.TerriWeldon.com or Blog: Seriously Write

Writer Under Construction by Terri Weldon

Today’s post is a little out of the norm. Right now my office looks like a construction zone. And let me tell you, it’s not conducive to writing - at least not for this writer. My computer isn’t hooked up and unlike so many authors I actually use a desktop computer. 

I somehow connected the router and modem, hope I’m even calling them the right things, up to where the phone isn’t working. Since the phone isn’t required for my internet service I’m not sure how I managed that one. 

Not to mention my desk is covered in books that need placed on bookshelves. 

My plans for a lovely, private, and organized office have gone askew. Believe me, I thought I’d be back in my office by now. I need in that room!

All of this has made me think about how rarely things in life go the way we think they will. I should have factored delays into my schedule and I should have asked for help in reconnecting my internet! lol

Writing is a lot like my office. When you’re working on your book don’t let moments of chaos and confusion overwhelm you. Stay focused and even if it takes longer than you originally planned you’ll finally type THE END.

As for me, I hope to have my dream office soon. Maybe I’ll share a picture or two.

What about you - where is your favorite place to write?

Terri Weldon is a blessed to be a full time author. 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 and has two adorable Westies – Crosby and Nolly Grace. Terri is a member of ACFW and OCFW, a local chapter of ACFW. You can connect with Terri at www.terriweldon.com 

What Motivates You by Terri Weldon

Hey, guys, I first ran this post in 2016, but since I'm needing motivation to write more I decided it needed a second chance. Actually, I need to hear from you guys so I can get myself in gear!

When I sat down to write this post (in 2016) I was watching Dr. Who. And it occurred to me that at times my inspiration comes from movies, other books, television programs, sermons, a sentence in a conversation (mine or someone else’s), and most definitely scripture.

Do all these sparks of inspiration turn into a book? Not even close, but they do spark my creative juices. I’ll never write a character like Dr. Who, but while watching the program I might wonder why people are so drawn to him, so devoted, and willing to follow him anywhere. That query sends my mind in two directions:

1. Can I write a strong hero, perhaps military, whose troops would be willing to follow him anywhere?

2. It would be totally wicked to write a villain with that kind of pull over people.

I’ve stopped counting the number of times I’ve watched The Fugitive. Trying my best to figure out how the writer wrote a screenplay that draws you from the beginning and refuses to let go. Wouldn’t we all love to have that gift?

When I’m reading my daily Bible I might run across a verse that inspires me or even just a few words. When I do I jot them down in the notes section of my phone. One day I simply listed the book, chapter, and verse and said good scripture for a suspense novel. A word of caution, put in a few more details. There have been times I’ve looked at that verse and wondered why I thought that.

Since I’ve shared a little bit about how I find inspiration I’m hoping you will do the same. What inspires you? What sparks the creative genius in your brain? Trust me, I REALLY need to know.

Terri Weldon is the award winning author of The Christmas Bride Wore Boots. It won the best novella category in the 2016 Lyra Awards. She enjoys traveling, gardening, reading, spending time with her family, 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 has two adorable Westies – Crosby and Nolly Grace. Terri is a member of ACFW and RWA. She is a member of the Seriously Write Team (www.seriouslywrite.blogspot.com). Readers can connect with Terri at www.terriweldon.com

Books by Terri Weldon

The Matchmakers
The Christmas Bride Wore Boots
Mistletoe Magic

 

 

 

Story Ideas by Terri Weldon

Have you ever read a book and wondered where or how the author came up with the idea? Boy I have – on more than one occasion. And usually right after that I’m wondering why I don’t have their story genius. 

Ideas for books often come to me in strange places. I came up with one story idea while having my hair done. What would happen if my hair dresser decided to give me my final haircut and then kill me? Frustrated with a job I had at the time, I came up with the idea of a woman whose actions propel her career forward in a most dishonest way. And I’ve had so many story ideas pop into my mind in the shower that I wish I could find a waterproof notepad!

I have more story ideas then I’ll ever be able to write. In fact, there are so many that I’ve been reduced to keeping them in a file labeled ideas in my desk. You never know when they’ll come in handy. Oh, I wish I was productive enough to pen the plethora of books those ideas represent. While that’s doubtful I still keep them. 

A friend of mine who is a much more prolific writer than I am says she never has more than one idea at a time. She believes God provides the ideas as she needs them. It is obviously working for her, she’s a wonderful author who publishes steadily. 

What about you? Where do you come up with your story ideas? Are you like me and have ideas waiting in the wings? Or are you like my friend and only have one idea at a time? I hope you’ll leave a comment and let me know.

The Matchmakers: A Match Made In Sheffield

Natalie Benton bounced from one foster home to another until she landed on Ellie Alexander’s doorstep. Her 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?

Amazon Buy Link: The Matchmakers
   

Terri Weldon is a lead analyst by day and an author by night. She enjoys gardening, reading, and shopping for shoes – a habit she really needs to break. Problem is they make new, cute ones every season. 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 Oklahoma. Terri has two adorable Westies – or they have her, she’s never sure which. Terri is a member of Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers. Her dream of becoming a published author came true when her novella Mistletoe Magic was published.