Merry Christmas!
This week I don't have an author interview for you. I want to take this opportunity to thank you for all the kind words and actions that you have done for me. As you know, last Saturday Terry and I had the book launch party for Luke's Legacy. We were blessed by the family and friends who came and showed love and support. There were also many who emailed us and sent greetings and well-wishes. That meant so much to us also.
Sometimes Christmas can be a tough time. I know that when I get out the tree and decorations, I think of those who are not with us any more. I have wonderful memories. I am very thankful for that. In my family we are very expressive of love. We hug a lot and tell one another that we love each other. That has been a comfort for me because I know that the ones I love have heard it from my lips.
Terry wanted me to send out the short-story I wrote last year called, "A Job for Christmas". I told him that people could click on the link to my website, but he wanted it to show up on the email...so here it is:
A Job For Christmas
The reception room was crowded as the tenth applicant for the job burst through the door. “Sorry Ma’am I hope I am not late.” He said.
“Put your name on the list. Mr. James will get to you in order.” The hefty middle-aged receptionist answered as if she were a worn out recording.
The young man wrote his name carefully to be sure that it was legible. There was no use being looked over for a job because the interviewer couldn’t read his name. He finished the task and the woman spoke. “Fill these out also.”
“Thank you.” He said. He searched the room for a spot to land on. There were a couple of chairs available but briefcases were in them. The other job seekers in the room looked as depressed and tired as he was. An inner door opened and a middle-aged man came into the crowded room. He was obviously the mail room clerk. He searched each face and his eyes came to rest on the young man who was standing.
“No place to sit?” He asked.
The young man shrugged. “Apparently not.”
“Hey you there, move your stuff and let this kid sit. You know it will be a long wait.”
The man continued reading the latest copy of Forbes magazine as if he had not been addressed. A young woman moved her briefcase from the seat next to her and nodded to the young man.
“Thank you.” He said.
The mailroom clerk crossed the room to the young man. “I am Harold. I have been here since the company was founded.”
“My name is Steve. I feel like I have been looking for work since the day this company was founded.” He smiled.
The man with the Forbes magazine remarked. “They don’t hand out promotions much here or else you don’t have much talent.”
The others in the room chuckled in agreement.
“I hold the best position in the company.” He said. Smiling he peered into Steve’s eyes. “Good luck Steve. Young lady, you have a good heart.”
They watched the man as he went in through the same door he came out of. “Loser!” One man muttered.
“Steve, my name is Marsha. It looks like we are interviewing for the same position.”
Steve nodded. “Every interview is the same. There aren’t a whole lot of positions available.”
“That is true. Tell me about yourself. We apparently have a lot of time to kill.”
His eyes watered. “I have a wife and three kids. Hopefully I can get something going before Thanksgiving so that Christmas won’t be bad for them.”
“Have you been on the job hunt long?” She asked.
He said, “It feels like a long time. Actually, it is when you have a family counting on you. As of today I have been out of work for three months.”
One of the job seekers left his chair in search of the restroom. As he left another man remarked, “How long before they call on another one of us to talk with personnel? This is ridiculous!”
“Hey you, is the man that hires even here yet?” Another man asked the receptionist.
The receptionist shrugged.
“It isn’t her fault.” Marsha answered.
“All I know is that they better look at qualifications when they fill this job.” The Forbes magazine reader said.
“In this economy I am sure they will look at a lot more than qualifications.” Marsha answered. “What is your name?”
“Listen, this isn’t a coffee shop and I am not looking to make friends. We are in competition for the same job.”
“All right then.”She said.
Marsha turned back to Steve. “Tell me about your kids. Are they really young?”
His eyes lit up as he began, “I have two sons. One is twelve and the other is ten. Our little girl is four years old now. My wife is the best. She has been great through all this stress. They are everything to me.” He fumbled with the papers that he had completed.
The receptionist leaned forward. “Marsha Brown.”
“That’s me.” She stood and smoothed out the front of her jacket. “Good luck Steve.”
One of the men in the waiting room muttered. “We might as well go home. They always give the jobs to the chicks.”
Steve contemplated the words. Sometimes it seemed to be true. He thought about his wife and hoped with all his heart that he would come home with good news. Christmas would be brutal if he didn’t land a job soon. They were down to eating beans and cornbread most meals as well as spaghetti and ketchup sauce too. Aimee was a great cook and managed to stretch the pantry to keep them fed. Presents couldn’t happen without a job. Of course the grandparents would send things, but he wanted to provide for his children. He clasped his hands together as he rested his elbows on his knees. This waiting was a killer.
“Steve Clark.” The voice beaconed.
He stood to go and angry voices erupted. “No fair! I have been here twice as long as he has.”
“Do I have to call security and have all of you hauled off?” The receptionist asked.
As Steve entered the interview room he was greeted by Marsha. “Hi Steve, let me look at your application.”
The look of confusion on his face was amusing. She smiled as she looked through the neatly scripted papers. “You can learn a lot about people when they are waiting for a job interview. As far as my authority goes, I would say that you have the job. There will be a nice Christmas bonus and sign on bonus. Sally, my secretary will cut the check today. You can come in first thing tomorrow to start work. Now all we need is for you to speak with the founder of the company. He enjoys meeting each new member of the team and showing them their office.
As she finished speaking the mail room clerk walked into the room. “Follow me. So your name is Steve?”
Steve nodded. “Yes sir.”
They went through a long hallway that opened into a plethora of cubicles. “Your desk will be in the corner at the window until we get settled into our new building. I hope this is ok.”
“Yes, thank you.” Steve said. “You have been so kind. I would like to tell the boss that you are a first-rate man, Harold.”
The middle-aged man stuck out his hand for a handshake. Steve firmly clasped his hand, looked him in the eye and grinned at him. “Steve, I am the boss. My name is H.W. James. I am the founder of this company. We do our hires just a little differently here. We believe in the Bible verse that says, ‘When you have done this to the least of these, you have done it to me.’ You can tell a lot about a person’s character in how they speak to the lowest guy on the totem pole.”
“Thank you for the job Mr. James. I will do my best.”
“Just one thing, Steve, don’t tell anyone about our criteria for hiring.”
“It’s a deal.” Steve could hardly contain his excitement. There would be a family celebration tonight.
Written by
Elaine Littau
Author of Nan’s Journey, Elk’s Resolve, and Luke's Legacy
Chapters 1-6 of Gertie's Grace (I am thinking of changing the title to "The Eyes of a Stranger.) are on the website. Just go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the last item on the list on the left-hand side of the website.
For Home School/Private School/Public School
I have placed Chapter 1 of Nan's Journey on my website along with a Lesson Plan and Reading Comprehension questions. http://elainelittau.com
I am working on completing the work of doing Lesson Plans and questions for all the books I write. The links are free. The books are on the accelerated reading list for Perryton Jr. High School. It is for readers 13 and up. If you are a teacher or parent who needs this, just log in the lesson plans and questions are free.
Between the Books Chapters
For new chapters "Between the Books" go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the tab. I plan to write a new chapter per week (If possible) until Luke's Legacy is in my hands. All the chapters written are available on the website.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Interview with Sally Unrau
This week has been very exciting. Some of the copies of Luke's Legacy arrived at my house last week. They are already gone. I will be getting the rest soon. If you ordered a copy or so, they will be in the mail as soon as possible. I have been making labels and preparing boxes and manilla envelopes for the books to make the process go quickly.
If you didn't order a copy of Luke's Legacy, you are not too late! Just go to my website. (click here)Make sure you put your special instructions in the area indicated if you want it personalized to someone special.
I also have a shortstory I wrote last year, "A Job For Christmas", that you might enjoy reading. If you would like to pass this story around, feel free. I think the ending is a little unexpected. (Click here to get to my website and click on the short story tab on the left.) This coming Saturday and Sunday, Nov 27 & 28th, I will be at Guymon, Oklahoma at the Fair Grounds for a craft show. I will be selling books. Come by and say 'hi' order or buy a book or two.
I have plenty of open
dates if you would
like to contact me
to set something up.
http://elainelittau.com
I would like to introduce you to my author friend, Sally Unrau.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Sally Gilchrest-Unrau and my children's picture book is called ...Sam's Weird Afternoon.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I am a three time breast cancer survivor who began writing after my first diagnosis. After 25 years working in the field of Early Childhood Education....my writing turned from cancer related anticdotes to something more creative....children's stories.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
It was not until my story...Location, Location, Location...was published in Cup of Comfort for Breast Cancer Survivors that I thought seriouly about becoming a writer.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My strong points in all of my writing is my ability to include humor and with reality.
5. Are you a reader?
I am not an avid reader but I do belong to a local book club and read a book once every few months.
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have written many children's stories about Sam my character. They are mostly about normal events in a child's day that becomes weird.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacles to writing are my other passions...quilting and other forms of art. I just have to put them on the backburner when I am in a writing mood.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Sam's Weird Afternoon...my first children's book...was released on May 25th, 2010..It is about Sam...a young boy whose mom is always telling him what to do. This one day when he took off his shoes like mom asked, two new ones appeared on his feet...so he kicks them off and two more appear. The day becomes weird as his room fills with shoes until something magical occurs to make his day better.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
You can purchase my book on Amazon.com....Tate Publishing Ent...or from any local book store in your town.
You can contact me at......http://fatquarter.wordpress.com
If you didn't order a copy of Luke's Legacy, you are not too late! Just go to my website. (click here)Make sure you put your special instructions in the area indicated if you want it personalized to someone special.
I also have a shortstory I wrote last year, "A Job For Christmas", that you might enjoy reading. If you would like to pass this story around, feel free. I think the ending is a little unexpected. (Click here to get to my website and click on the short story tab on the left.) This coming Saturday and Sunday, Nov 27 & 28th, I will be at Guymon, Oklahoma at the Fair Grounds for a craft show. I will be selling books. Come by and say 'hi' order or buy a book or two.
I have plenty of open
dates if you would
like to contact me
to set something up.
http://elainelittau.com
I would like to introduce you to my author friend, Sally Unrau.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Sally Gilchrest-Unrau and my children's picture book is called ...Sam's Weird Afternoon.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I am a three time breast cancer survivor who began writing after my first diagnosis. After 25 years working in the field of Early Childhood Education....my writing turned from cancer related anticdotes to something more creative....children's stories.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
It was not until my story...Location, Location, Location...was published in Cup of Comfort for Breast Cancer Survivors that I thought seriouly about becoming a writer.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My strong points in all of my writing is my ability to include humor and with reality.
5. Are you a reader?
I am not an avid reader but I do belong to a local book club and read a book once every few months.
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have written many children's stories about Sam my character. They are mostly about normal events in a child's day that becomes weird.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacles to writing are my other passions...quilting and other forms of art. I just have to put them on the backburner when I am in a writing mood.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Sam's Weird Afternoon...my first children's book...was released on May 25th, 2010..It is about Sam...a young boy whose mom is always telling him what to do. This one day when he took off his shoes like mom asked, two new ones appeared on his feet...so he kicks them off and two more appear. The day becomes weird as his room fills with shoes until something magical occurs to make his day better.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
You can purchase my book on Amazon.com....Tate Publishing Ent...or from any local book store in your town.
You can contact me at......http://fatquarter.wordpress.com
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Judy Drewett, author of "Til the Cows Come Home"
November is a time for reflection. It is a time to think of all the people who have meant something in your life. I was reminded of this during Brad Paisley's speech when he won entertainer of the year at the CMAs. He quoted Little Jimmy Dickens as he said, "If you see a turtle on a fence post, he didn't get there by himself." Brad was holding back tears. I was too.
I know that being a small-time author doesn't compare to what the entertainer of the year has accomplished, but the thing he said is still true. I haven't sold one book without a reader who is interested in seeing what I have to say, purchasing a copy. By purchasing my books, recommending them, reviewing them on national websites, or sending an encouraging email or note, you have put this "turtle on the fence post." I am thankful to you.I appreciate you.
As you know, November is the National Novel Writing Month challenge. So far I have written 26,000+ words. The challenge is 50,000 words. The book is shaping up and I think you will like it. The first 6 chapters on on my website. Click here to read them. Go to the tab that says "Gertie". It is listed last on the left colum on the opening page of my website. (Remember it is very rough.)
This week I am interviewing Judy Drewett, author of "Til the Cows Come Home."
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
'Til the Cows Come Home, By Judy Perry Drewett
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I taught elementary school for 28 years and retired 3 years ago. My favorite thing was reading books to the children, which resulted in my strong desire to write children's books!
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I began writing poems when I was 13. I always wanted to write a book of poetry.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Highly imaginative style for young readers. Plan to write a rhyming book one day for K - 2nd grade.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes! Avid reader
6. What are you reading right now? O'Mallory Christian series by Dee Henderson
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes! It is about the same little boy, Thomas, who is in my first book, with a big imagination! Called "Be Careful What You Wish For"
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? Time and money. I spend a lot of my retired time visiting my mother in the nursing home. I have to make myself set aside a special block of time to write.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) "Thomas, you'd better get out of that bed and get dressed for school or you'll be lying there 'til the cows come home." Inspired by a kindergarten student's curiosity, Judy Perry Drewett, writes about a little boy with a vivid imagination. Follow Thomas and his imagination as he begins to see cows everywhere he goes. 'Til the Cows Come Home is a story to be enjoyed by young and old alike.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. My website: www.judyperrydrewett.com
My email: j_drewett@yahoo.com
Go to elainelittau.com
For Home School/Private School/Public School
I have placed Chapter 1 of Nan's Journey on my website along with a Lesson Plan and Reading Comprehension questions. http://elainelittau.com/ . I am working on completing the work of doing Lesson Plans and questions for all the books I write. The links are free. The books are on the accelerated reading list for Perryton Jr. High School. It is for readers 13 and up. If you are a teacher or parent who needs this, just log in the lesson plans and questions are free.
Between the Books Chapters
For new chapters "Between the Books" go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the tab. I plan to write a new chapter per week (If possible) until Luke's Legacy is in my hands. All the chapters written are available on the website.
I have plenty of open dates if you would like to contact me to set something up.http://elainelittau.com/
Need help with book sales and marketing? Go to my website and sign up for my coaching/consulting services. The first week is $5. Try it before you subscribe by by the month. Go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the coaching tab for more information.
I have begun a new blog that features books for sale from some of the authors I have interviewed. Please take time to look at it.
http://titlesforsale.blogspot.com/
Book III, Luke's Legacy will be in my hands in a couple of weeks.The retail price is listed at $16.99. I am selling them for $15.+ postage.
Nan in the hand made dresses ($8).
The Nan Doll in Overalls ($6)
She is 6 3/4" tall. I hand sew the clothes. Each doll is unique.
I sell them for $10 (Now $8 in the hand sewn dress and $6 in the overalls) + postage or I give one with thepurchase of 5 or more books.
For those of you who haven't read the interview that I recently did, click on this link:
Interview with Elaine Littau [laineygirl] in Whohub
Source: www.whohub.com
Click Here for 3 old fashioned recipes available for free and 50 marketing tips
for first time authors.These are ideas that I have gleaned from books and the Internet...some from my own mind. I have tried all of them and they workand are inexpensive, unless I note otherwise. I will happily send these to anyone who asks for them.
The book trailer, recipes, photos, and freebies can all be found on the website also.
Nan's Journey, Book I of the Nan's Heritage Series
Elk's Resolve, Book II of the Nan's Heritage Series
Both books for a special price of $26+postage
Both books & Nan Doll for a special price of $35+ postage (a $10 savings)
Please tell everyone about Nan's Journey, Elk's Resolve, and Luke's Legacy. You will never know how much that means to me!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Jen Scott, Angels at Large
Balancing Act
Today I got my bank statement and I need to make sure that it balances out. It reminds me of the end of the year when I evaluate all the places that the money goes. You can really see what your priorities are when you look at your check book.
I am happy that, for the most part, Terry and I are committed to the same goals. We are striving to get out of debt within our lifetime. After reevaluating my checkbook I know that that is something we need to stay committed to.
I would like for you to meet fellow author. Jen Scott.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? Angels at Large
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you? I'm a huge animal lover and enjoy putting a smile on the hearts of children and adults.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer? In 1988
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods? Making it easy reading for children.
5. Are you a reader? Yes
6. What are you reading right now? Nothing at the time, my husband is ill, so I guess it would be the Bible.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it. Yes, several in the process. My next book will be about two orphan children who lost their parents in a car accident, they buy a lottery ticket and win. The problem is finding the homeless person who helped them buy it.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? My only obstacle is having enough time to do it. I have a beautiful garden that I need to tend to and a farm full of animals that need my attention. I love that! I love them!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Author Janet Lee Scott recently relocated to the Ozarks of Missouri and thrives on her love for people and animals. She has been writing stories since 1988 and has so much to share with the world and feels that the first approach to helping is seeking out the youth by spreading the word of kindness that helps others, both animals and people..
She’s an accomplished steel artist and painter who deals with original hand drawings, hand cuts and welds her own art work. Janet has an imagination that keeps her up sometimes at night with story ideas and has taken a giant leap to help others with her treasures she writes. Her heart is filled with God and has a true eternal beauty in her stories
Right now she’s offering this great story, Angels at Large. A contagious book of kindness!Coming soon are Bugger Bear, Taco’s Journey, Root People, nine dollars and Ninety Days, and Who Decides.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. Here is the link for ordering: http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-60696-361-6
Recent reviews:
#1Dr Rick with petMD:After reading Angels at Large, we were sure author Janet Lee Scott had just written one of the best nursery books ever published. Perfect for a child, grandchild, niece or nephew, Angels at Large is full of adventures and good deeds. It leads the main characters, Margaret and Monet, not only to a happy ending but to the betterment of the lives of all the people and animals they touch along the way. From New York City to an African Desert to the shores of Newfoundland, our heroes travel the world (with the help of their angel guides) and bring a little joy, peace, and comfort to all they meet.
A story of faith, perseverance, and, above all else, proof that the road to heaven can also be paved with good intentions. How lovingly Haute!
In addition to being a writer, Janet is also an accomplished steel artist who draws, hand cuts, and welds her own artwork. Now that's industrially Haute!
#2I just finished "Angels at Large" and let me tell you it was awesome! It is a perfect story that someone of any age can appreciate. I couldn't put it down. I just had to know where Monet and Margaret were going to go next and what they were going to do. I laughed and cried. The elephant part in Africa was my favorite! I could really picture it happening. The whole story was so well detailed I could really picture it in my head and see it all unfolding. You are very very talented. I most definitely am going to suggest this to friends! When you publish your next book please inform me. I would love to read it. The whole story really made me wonder if my pets who have passed are watching me. I sure hope so :)Thanks for entertaining me for the night,Andrea--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Andrea Harless
Public Relations Intern, Angels For Animals, Canfield, OH
#3Janet ... I've just finished the book!! It is absolutely wonderful - thoroughly enjoyed it and confess to having a few little tears in places. Let me know when your next book comes out. XXThank you!Gai McNeill
This month:
Luke's Legacy is on it's way!
I am participating in the NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) The book I am writing in the month of November is Gertie. I have the first 6 chapters on my website. Click here to arrive at the web address. On the left side of the page is a list of all the free things and other options I have to offer on my website. Gertie is the last item on the list. It is a very rough and quickly written draft. If you are interested in reading the direction I am taking the Nan's Heritage Series, read it. Let me know what you think. It will be Book V and the last of the Series.
I am excited to introduce the next series, The Chosen Ones, coming in the future.
I have events coming Nov 13 & 14 at Levelland, TX; Nov 20&21 at Perryton, TX; An event in Woodward, OK coming soon. (I will get the details to you asap); Dec 4 at Bryan's Corner, OK, Dec 11 at Hinton, OK, Dec 18 in Oklahoma City at the Full Circle Book store. Terry will be recording the audio version of Luke's Legacy on Jan 12 & 13. We will be busy and on the road. Please pray for us.
Today I got my bank statement and I need to make sure that it balances out. It reminds me of the end of the year when I evaluate all the places that the money goes. You can really see what your priorities are when you look at your check book.
I am happy that, for the most part, Terry and I are committed to the same goals. We are striving to get out of debt within our lifetime. After reevaluating my checkbook I know that that is something we need to stay committed to.
I would like for you to meet fellow author. Jen Scott.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? Angels at Large
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you? I'm a huge animal lover and enjoy putting a smile on the hearts of children and adults.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer? In 1988
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods? Making it easy reading for children.
5. Are you a reader? Yes
6. What are you reading right now? Nothing at the time, my husband is ill, so I guess it would be the Bible.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it. Yes, several in the process. My next book will be about two orphan children who lost their parents in a car accident, they buy a lottery ticket and win. The problem is finding the homeless person who helped them buy it.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? My only obstacle is having enough time to do it. I have a beautiful garden that I need to tend to and a farm full of animals that need my attention. I love that! I love them!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Author Janet Lee Scott recently relocated to the Ozarks of Missouri and thrives on her love for people and animals. She has been writing stories since 1988 and has so much to share with the world and feels that the first approach to helping is seeking out the youth by spreading the word of kindness that helps others, both animals and people..
She’s an accomplished steel artist and painter who deals with original hand drawings, hand cuts and welds her own art work. Janet has an imagination that keeps her up sometimes at night with story ideas and has taken a giant leap to help others with her treasures she writes. Her heart is filled with God and has a true eternal beauty in her stories
Right now she’s offering this great story, Angels at Large. A contagious book of kindness!Coming soon are Bugger Bear, Taco’s Journey, Root People, nine dollars and Ninety Days, and Who Decides.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. Here is the link for ordering: http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-60696-361-6
Recent reviews:
#1Dr Rick with petMD:After reading Angels at Large, we were sure author Janet Lee Scott had just written one of the best nursery books ever published. Perfect for a child, grandchild, niece or nephew, Angels at Large is full of adventures and good deeds. It leads the main characters, Margaret and Monet, not only to a happy ending but to the betterment of the lives of all the people and animals they touch along the way. From New York City to an African Desert to the shores of Newfoundland, our heroes travel the world (with the help of their angel guides) and bring a little joy, peace, and comfort to all they meet.
A story of faith, perseverance, and, above all else, proof that the road to heaven can also be paved with good intentions. How lovingly Haute!
In addition to being a writer, Janet is also an accomplished steel artist who draws, hand cuts, and welds her own artwork. Now that's industrially Haute!
#2I just finished "Angels at Large" and let me tell you it was awesome! It is a perfect story that someone of any age can appreciate. I couldn't put it down. I just had to know where Monet and Margaret were going to go next and what they were going to do. I laughed and cried. The elephant part in Africa was my favorite! I could really picture it happening. The whole story was so well detailed I could really picture it in my head and see it all unfolding. You are very very talented. I most definitely am going to suggest this to friends! When you publish your next book please inform me. I would love to read it. The whole story really made me wonder if my pets who have passed are watching me. I sure hope so :)Thanks for entertaining me for the night,Andrea--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Andrea Harless
Public Relations Intern, Angels For Animals, Canfield, OH
#3Janet ... I've just finished the book!! It is absolutely wonderful - thoroughly enjoyed it and confess to having a few little tears in places. Let me know when your next book comes out. XXThank you!Gai McNeill
This month:
Luke's Legacy is on it's way!
I am participating in the NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) The book I am writing in the month of November is Gertie. I have the first 6 chapters on my website. Click here to arrive at the web address. On the left side of the page is a list of all the free things and other options I have to offer on my website. Gertie is the last item on the list. It is a very rough and quickly written draft. If you are interested in reading the direction I am taking the Nan's Heritage Series, read it. Let me know what you think. It will be Book V and the last of the Series.
I am excited to introduce the next series, The Chosen Ones, coming in the future.
I have events coming Nov 13 & 14 at Levelland, TX; Nov 20&21 at Perryton, TX; An event in Woodward, OK coming soon. (I will get the details to you asap); Dec 4 at Bryan's Corner, OK, Dec 11 at Hinton, OK, Dec 18 in Oklahoma City at the Full Circle Book store. Terry will be recording the audio version of Luke's Legacy on Jan 12 & 13. We will be busy and on the road. Please pray for us.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Shari England, Lessons From the Sticker Patch
Be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the page for my interview with Shari England.
November is National Novel Writing Month. (NaNoWriMo for short) During this month anyone who has the desire to meet the challenge that the NaNoWri Mo people have set before them are to write a novel of at least 50,000 words within the month. Beginning November 1 through November 30 people or all walks of life are writing their fingers to the bone. What do the writers who accomplish this feat receive?
The accomplishment of writing a novel.
a badge for their website
and a few other things.
I have decided to do this, so I have posted the first 6 chapters of Book #5 on my website. Click here to read the first of the book "Gertie ". On the left hand of the opening page of my website, there is a list of the pages offered. Gertie is the last on the list. Click on that and you will get into the story. Write me an email by clicking here and let me know what you think. I will be writing more every day this month to attempt to meet this challenge.
For Home School/Private School/Public School
I have placed Chapter 1 of Nan's Journey on my website along with a Lesson Plan and Reading Comprehension questions. http://elainelittau.com
I am working on completing the work of doing Lesson Plans and questions for all the books I write. The links are free. The books are on the accelerated reading list for Perryton Jr. High School. It is for readers 13 and up. If you are a teacher or parent who needs this, just log in the lesson plans and questions are free.
Between the Books Chapters
For new chapters "Between the Books" go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the tab. I plan to write a new chapter per week (If possible) until Luke's Legacy is in my hands. All the chapters written are available on the website.
I have a few open dates if you would like to contact me to set something up.
http://elainelittau.com
Need help with book sales and marketing?
Go to my website and sign up for my coaching/consulting services. The first week is $5.
Try it before you subscribe by the month. Go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the coaching tab for more information.
I have begun a new blog that features books for sale for some of the authors I have interviewed. Please take time to look at it. http://titlesforsale.blogspot.com
Book III, Luke's Legacy will be in my hands in a couple of weeks.
If you want to take advantage of special pricing for pre sale click on the button. The special price is $11. That is a big reduction from the cover price when it comes out.
Nan in the hand made dresses are on sale for $10.
The Nan Doll in Overalls are on sale for $8.
I was at my sister's house one day and noticed a cute little doll she had. It was Anne Shirley from the Anne of Green Gables Book series. I searched the Internet for a simple doll to buy wholesale to sell as a Nan doll. I didn't have much luck with it until one of my author friends pointed me to a website that had one of the cutest little dolls I have ever seen.
She is 6 3/4" tall. I hand sew the clothes. Each doll is unique.I sell them for
$10 + postage or I give one with the purchase of 5 or more books.
For those of you who haven't read the interview that I recently did, click on this link:Interview with Elaine Littau [laineygirl] in Whohub Source: www.whohub.com
Click Here for 3 old fashioned recipes available for free.
and
50 marketing tips for first time authors.
These are ideas that I have gleaned from books and the Internet...some from my own mind. I have tried all of them and they work and are inexpensive, unless I note otherwise. I will happily send these to anyone who asks for them.
The book trailer, recipes, photos, and freebies can all be found on the website also.
Book I of the Nan's Heritage Series is Nan's Journey.
Book II of the Nan's Heritage Series is Elk's Resolve
Book III of the Nan's Heritage Series is Luke's Legacy (in my hands soon)
Book IV of the Nan's Heritage Series is Timothy's Home. (almost ready to submit)
Book V of the Nan's Heritage Series is Gertie. (The title has not been decided.)
The Next Series will be called something like "The Chosen Ones". It will be about each of the young girls who were rescued by Fred, Elk, and Ted in "Elk's Resolve". I can hardly wait to get started. My plans are to release a new book each year. (maybe 2 if at all possible) If you would like to sign up to my Book Pre-Order Club, click here and leave me an email. The book club is for those who want to get a $5 discount on pre-ordered books. These would be future books by Elaine Littau. You do not pay before the books are available. You are simply signing up to be on the list for upcoming books as a pre-order club member
Titles
I have been making videos of the book covers of the authors who contact me. I am amazed by the titles that they have come up with. My titles are a little tame next to some of them.
I have to tell you something kind of funny about figuring out how to name Book #4.
Book #1 is Nan's Journey
Book #2 is Elk's Resolve
Book #3 is Luke's Legacy
Book #4 was going to be Thomas' _____
Then I decided that I might have trouble saying the title in speeches that I give. I decided that I needed to change the name of the main character based on this fact. I renamed him Timothy so the title will be...Timothy's Home
Today I want to introduce you to Shari England, author.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Shari England - Lessons from the Sticker Patch
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I have received new life both physically and spiritually. Physically through the accidental death of my donor giving me a new liver nine years ago, and spiritually through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ over 2000 years ago.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I took a creative writing class my senior year of high school and won a college scholarship in a writing contest, but even then, did not know of the gift that lay inside me. It took nearly 20 years for it to come full circle in order to be transformed into that for which God designed it.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I love creativity and I feel I am able to generate meaning through the most inanimate objects, and to parallel them with the profound. I gather ideas from the most mundane situations or conversations. I also love rhythm and movement in words and love words that dance. People often tell me my writing is "smooth" and easy to read.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes, I love to read, though I did not like to in my early years. I never get books from public libraries. I prefer to buy my books so I can mark them up, and return to them often. I need more shelves.
6. What are you reading right now?
It's hard for me to have only book going at a time. Besides the Bible, I am reading a couple devotionals by other new authors, plus a book on marketing, and Phillip Yancey's "The Jesus I Never Knew". I just finished a wonderful book called "Things Forgotten" by Thomas N. Tabback. Fabulous fictional read.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have two books in progress now. One is a continuation of the first book. The other is a book targeted more as a ministry to women, young and old, using one of the stories in my first book as the foundation. I plan to use my own experiences, and combine them with the experiences of others through personal interviews with women who have come through their own issues and struggles victoriously through Christ.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Patience! My perfectionism comes out in things like dwelling too much on one thought or item and it burns up precious time. I've had to work at writing quickly, even if it's very messy and disorderly at first. Just write! Then put it to bed until later, sometimes much later, weeks or even months, and then resurrect it in its proper time.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Lessons from the Sticker Patch (published) is a compilation of short stories of inspiration and encouragement through the creative combination of real life and real faith. The author's vivid accounts from childhood through parenthood will cause you to revisit wonderful memories of your own, while laying a foundation of truth and wisdom found only in God's Word. Whether it's a ballerina in an old jewelry box, a message in a jar of peanut butter, a child lost in a grocery store, or an aluminum Christmas tree, there's a lesson to be learned in all of life's occurrences about God's unfailing love and faithfulness.
More Lessons from the Sticker Patch (not published) - the same
Ballerina in a Box - (not published) - I was six years old when I received a pink jewelry box as a birthday gift. Upon opening the lid, I found a tiny tutu-clad ballet dancer poised at center stage. She exhibited such beauty, elegance, and grace. Balancing faultlessly on one toe, she spun gracefully to the dainty twinkling tune of the "Ballerina" melody. Occasionally hanging up on a single note, she quickly regained her position to continue her magnificent performance. At least that was until someone or something closed the lid... Discover through personal reflections of women of all ages how God takes our hurts, hang ups, and habits, and transforms them into a thing of beauty, poised in the center of His will for a magnificent endless performance of His glory at work in the lives of women--at work in you.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://stickerpatch.tatepublishing.net/
http://www.shariengland.blogspot.com/
November is National Novel Writing Month. (NaNoWriMo for short) During this month anyone who has the desire to meet the challenge that the NaNoWri Mo people have set before them are to write a novel of at least 50,000 words within the month. Beginning November 1 through November 30 people or all walks of life are writing their fingers to the bone. What do the writers who accomplish this feat receive?
The accomplishment of writing a novel.
a badge for their website
and a few other things.
I have decided to do this, so I have posted the first 6 chapters of Book #5 on my website. Click here to read the first of the book "Gertie ". On the left hand of the opening page of my website, there is a list of the pages offered. Gertie is the last on the list. Click on that and you will get into the story. Write me an email by clicking here and let me know what you think. I will be writing more every day this month to attempt to meet this challenge.
For Home School/Private School/Public School
I have placed Chapter 1 of Nan's Journey on my website along with a Lesson Plan and Reading Comprehension questions. http://elainelittau.com
I am working on completing the work of doing Lesson Plans and questions for all the books I write. The links are free. The books are on the accelerated reading list for Perryton Jr. High School. It is for readers 13 and up. If you are a teacher or parent who needs this, just log in the lesson plans and questions are free.
Between the Books Chapters
For new chapters "Between the Books" go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the tab. I plan to write a new chapter per week (If possible) until Luke's Legacy is in my hands. All the chapters written are available on the website.
I have a few open dates if you would like to contact me to set something up.
http://elainelittau.com
Need help with book sales and marketing?
Go to my website and sign up for my coaching/consulting services. The first week is $5.
Try it before you subscribe by the month. Go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the coaching tab for more information.
I have begun a new blog that features books for sale for some of the authors I have interviewed. Please take time to look at it. http://titlesforsale.blogspot.com
Book III, Luke's Legacy will be in my hands in a couple of weeks.
If you want to take advantage of special pricing for pre sale click on the button. The special price is $11. That is a big reduction from the cover price when it comes out.
Nan in the hand made dresses are on sale for $10.
The Nan Doll in Overalls are on sale for $8.
I was at my sister's house one day and noticed a cute little doll she had. It was Anne Shirley from the Anne of Green Gables Book series. I searched the Internet for a simple doll to buy wholesale to sell as a Nan doll. I didn't have much luck with it until one of my author friends pointed me to a website that had one of the cutest little dolls I have ever seen.
She is 6 3/4" tall. I hand sew the clothes. Each doll is unique.I sell them for
$10 + postage or I give one with the purchase of 5 or more books.
For those of you who haven't read the interview that I recently did, click on this link:Interview with Elaine Littau [laineygirl] in Whohub Source: www.whohub.com
Click Here for 3 old fashioned recipes available for free.
and
50 marketing tips for first time authors.
These are ideas that I have gleaned from books and the Internet...some from my own mind. I have tried all of them and they work and are inexpensive, unless I note otherwise. I will happily send these to anyone who asks for them.
The book trailer, recipes, photos, and freebies can all be found on the website also.
Book I of the Nan's Heritage Series is Nan's Journey.
Book II of the Nan's Heritage Series is Elk's Resolve
Book III of the Nan's Heritage Series is Luke's Legacy (in my hands soon)
Book IV of the Nan's Heritage Series is Timothy's Home. (almost ready to submit)
Book V of the Nan's Heritage Series is Gertie. (The title has not been decided.)
The Next Series will be called something like "The Chosen Ones". It will be about each of the young girls who were rescued by Fred, Elk, and Ted in "Elk's Resolve". I can hardly wait to get started. My plans are to release a new book each year. (maybe 2 if at all possible) If you would like to sign up to my Book Pre-Order Club, click here and leave me an email. The book club is for those who want to get a $5 discount on pre-ordered books. These would be future books by Elaine Littau. You do not pay before the books are available. You are simply signing up to be on the list for upcoming books as a pre-order club member
Titles
I have been making videos of the book covers of the authors who contact me. I am amazed by the titles that they have come up with. My titles are a little tame next to some of them.
I have to tell you something kind of funny about figuring out how to name Book #4.
Book #1 is Nan's Journey
Book #2 is Elk's Resolve
Book #3 is Luke's Legacy
Book #4 was going to be Thomas' _____
Then I decided that I might have trouble saying the title in speeches that I give. I decided that I needed to change the name of the main character based on this fact. I renamed him Timothy so the title will be...Timothy's Home
Today I want to introduce you to Shari England, author.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Shari England - Lessons from the Sticker Patch
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I have received new life both physically and spiritually. Physically through the accidental death of my donor giving me a new liver nine years ago, and spiritually through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ over 2000 years ago.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I took a creative writing class my senior year of high school and won a college scholarship in a writing contest, but even then, did not know of the gift that lay inside me. It took nearly 20 years for it to come full circle in order to be transformed into that for which God designed it.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I love creativity and I feel I am able to generate meaning through the most inanimate objects, and to parallel them with the profound. I gather ideas from the most mundane situations or conversations. I also love rhythm and movement in words and love words that dance. People often tell me my writing is "smooth" and easy to read.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes, I love to read, though I did not like to in my early years. I never get books from public libraries. I prefer to buy my books so I can mark them up, and return to them often. I need more shelves.
6. What are you reading right now?
It's hard for me to have only book going at a time. Besides the Bible, I am reading a couple devotionals by other new authors, plus a book on marketing, and Phillip Yancey's "The Jesus I Never Knew". I just finished a wonderful book called "Things Forgotten" by Thomas N. Tabback. Fabulous fictional read.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have two books in progress now. One is a continuation of the first book. The other is a book targeted more as a ministry to women, young and old, using one of the stories in my first book as the foundation. I plan to use my own experiences, and combine them with the experiences of others through personal interviews with women who have come through their own issues and struggles victoriously through Christ.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Patience! My perfectionism comes out in things like dwelling too much on one thought or item and it burns up precious time. I've had to work at writing quickly, even if it's very messy and disorderly at first. Just write! Then put it to bed until later, sometimes much later, weeks or even months, and then resurrect it in its proper time.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Lessons from the Sticker Patch (published) is a compilation of short stories of inspiration and encouragement through the creative combination of real life and real faith. The author's vivid accounts from childhood through parenthood will cause you to revisit wonderful memories of your own, while laying a foundation of truth and wisdom found only in God's Word. Whether it's a ballerina in an old jewelry box, a message in a jar of peanut butter, a child lost in a grocery store, or an aluminum Christmas tree, there's a lesson to be learned in all of life's occurrences about God's unfailing love and faithfulness.
More Lessons from the Sticker Patch (not published) - the same
Ballerina in a Box - (not published) - I was six years old when I received a pink jewelry box as a birthday gift. Upon opening the lid, I found a tiny tutu-clad ballet dancer poised at center stage. She exhibited such beauty, elegance, and grace. Balancing faultlessly on one toe, she spun gracefully to the dainty twinkling tune of the "Ballerina" melody. Occasionally hanging up on a single note, she quickly regained her position to continue her magnificent performance. At least that was until someone or something closed the lid... Discover through personal reflections of women of all ages how God takes our hurts, hang ups, and habits, and transforms them into a thing of beauty, poised in the center of His will for a magnificent endless performance of His glory at work in the lives of women--at work in you.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://stickerpatch.tatepublishing.net/
http://www.shariengland.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Lori A. Moore, author of Zero to Christian in Just 35 Years, Missing Andy: The Journey From Grief to Joy
Trick or Treat
There are times in our lives when we have to do things that are uncomfortable, things that are necessary, things that we ask God to not require us to do.
This week, I had a meeting that fit this description. It was painful, but at the end of the pain, I found peace.
Why do relationships deteriorate in such ways? How are our eyes glazed over when those we respect lead us by deceit? I am not glad to discover that truth was far from my acquaintance. It is a hard thing to digest.
The only way I know to overcome the disappointment is to hold tight to the Lord's hand and trust Him to show me the way. Please be in prayer for us. Terry and I have some decisions to make. I am so glad to have my sweet husband to help me through this sad time.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Lori A. Moore, author of
(1) From Zero to Christian in Just 35 Years; and
(2) Missing Andy: The Journey from Grief to Joy
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I had never set foot inside a church or heard of Jesus Christ until I was 35 years old. (book excerpt: One day in 1999, my friend Rick and his wife Cindy asked me to go to church with them. Little did I know that Christians are tricky! Not only did they offer to pick me up at my house to take me, but they also offered to treat me to lunch afterwards. How could I say no? I felt so awkward as I walked into the church sanctuary. I was gawking around taking everything in like a tourist. I was scared to death. I stood up to sing when they told us too. Even though they displayed the lyrics up on a big Jumbotron overhead,I had never heard any of those songs before and didn’t know the melodies, so I just stood and listened.After the worship songs ended and before the minister started to speak, people applauded.Clapping in church? Outrageous! Even though I had never attended church, I had somehow picked up some preconceived notions about church etiquette and expectations. I thought there was no clapping in church, no smiling in church, no being happy in church, and no experiencing hope in church. Communion came around, and I just passed it on down the row because I wasn’t going to do something when I didn’t know what it meant.Then the minister started to speak. He had such a nice comforting voice. Didn’t all ministers yell at the top of their voices? That’s all I’d ever seen from evangelists on television. He was talking about peace and hope and grace. What were those? I thought preachers only talked about hell and how we’re all bad people and that’s where we’re all going. And then he said it. He said the name Jesus. Who was Jesus? I had heard of God and heard the name Jesus Christ used as a curse word when people got angry, but I had never heard who Jesus was. The minister talked about being in a relationship with Jesus and Jesus being the bridge that allows us to have a relationship with God.I still felt uncomfortable and awkward when I left, but when my friends invited me to go with them again about three weeks later, I agreed.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
While I’ve always enjoyed writing and my teachers and professors always said I was a good writer, I never really seriously considered becoming an author. Then my husband of 12 years died in 2008 at age 49. He threw a blood clot approximately 15 hours post-surgery for a hip replacement. We held his funeral on what should have been his 50th birthday. I started writing as a way to express my thoughts and my grief.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Because From Zero to Christian in Just 35 Years deals with a journey from being a non-believer to a believer, it's written in first person and provides personal examples of incidents in my life. Missing Andy is the same thing. I write about what I know because I’ve lived it. I have a passion for adults who haven’t yet experienced a relationship with Christ because everything they’ve heard is kind of formal and scary, so I try to write with humor and on a down-to-earth level that people can relate to and understand.
5. Are you a reader ?
Absolutely. Growing up, I was a voracious reader. I always won the contests for who had read the most books over the summer. Growing up, I didn’t realize that my childhood wasn’t like that of most people, so I guess that reading was my escape and opportunity to explore new things and new places.
6. What are you reading right now?
The Left Behind Series. I’m on #9. A few years ago a friend told me that I would like them, calling them the Christian version of Stephen King books, but I never bothered to pick them up. Then in January of this year, another friend was cleaning out her closets in anticipation of moving and offered the whole set for free to the first person to respond to her Facebook message. I won! I read the first 8 in a week and a half, then got busy and haven’t settled back down into devouring the rest of them yet. Even though the series is fictional, it really helps me to better understand the Book of Revelation.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I’ve often joked that I’m “allergic to children” because I don’t have any of my own, hadn’t had any nieces or nephews until recently, and have never babysat. But I have the most wonderful little kitty in the world, named Grady, so I wrote a children’s book about him, called Grady the Gray Cat. It should be released in Fall 2010 and they are currently working on the illustration of the book. Here’s a snippet: Grady is a little gray cat.Grady’s fur is gray; that’s why his mommy named him that.He isn’t too skinny and he isn’t too fat.And he lives in a home with two other cats.
8. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
From Zero to Christian in Just 35 Years Do you think church isn’t the place for you or that it’s too late for you to give your life to Christ? In her book From Zero to Christian in just 35 Years new author Lori A. Moore shows us how nothing in the past will keep God from loving us. Trusting God can be scary, especially when confronted with complex and formal language. Through this simple and easy going guide to finding God, inexperienced Christians will learn to emerge from doubt and fear into the peace and comfort that can only be found through Christ. Follow Lori as she goes From Zero to Christian in Just 35 Years. Missing Andy: The Journey From Grief to Joy We did everything we could. I’m sorry. With just those seven words, Andy was gone. Then everything was silent. He didn’t have to say the D word––dead. He was talking in past tense. It was obvious that Andy had passed away. In her latest book, Missing Andy: The Journey from Grief to Joy, author Lori A. Moore explains how to view the loss of a loved one as a celebration instead of a final event. After unexpectedly losing her ex-husband, who was also her best friend, due to a fatal blood clot, Lori found herself lost and numb, but working her way through the five stages of grief helped her rediscover true happiness. Now, Lori writes about her experiences to help those dealing with grief come to a place of understanding and acceptance. Take this journey with Lori and find out how Missing Andy furthered her relationship with God and showed her how to truly live again. Come out of a place of inconsolable sadness and discover the joy that can only be found through Christ Jesus.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. They are available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Borders, Lifeway, Tate Publishing and more. http://loriamoore.tatepublishing.net Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lori-A-Moore/54377903045?ref=ts#!/pages/Lori-A-Moore/54377903045?ref=ts Twitter: @Lori_A_Moore
There are times in our lives when we have to do things that are uncomfortable, things that are necessary, things that we ask God to not require us to do.
This week, I had a meeting that fit this description. It was painful, but at the end of the pain, I found peace.
Why do relationships deteriorate in such ways? How are our eyes glazed over when those we respect lead us by deceit? I am not glad to discover that truth was far from my acquaintance. It is a hard thing to digest.
The only way I know to overcome the disappointment is to hold tight to the Lord's hand and trust Him to show me the way. Please be in prayer for us. Terry and I have some decisions to make. I am so glad to have my sweet husband to help me through this sad time.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Lori A. Moore, author of
(1) From Zero to Christian in Just 35 Years; and
(2) Missing Andy: The Journey from Grief to Joy
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I had never set foot inside a church or heard of Jesus Christ until I was 35 years old. (book excerpt: One day in 1999, my friend Rick and his wife Cindy asked me to go to church with them. Little did I know that Christians are tricky! Not only did they offer to pick me up at my house to take me, but they also offered to treat me to lunch afterwards. How could I say no? I felt so awkward as I walked into the church sanctuary. I was gawking around taking everything in like a tourist. I was scared to death. I stood up to sing when they told us too. Even though they displayed the lyrics up on a big Jumbotron overhead,I had never heard any of those songs before and didn’t know the melodies, so I just stood and listened.After the worship songs ended and before the minister started to speak, people applauded.Clapping in church? Outrageous! Even though I had never attended church, I had somehow picked up some preconceived notions about church etiquette and expectations. I thought there was no clapping in church, no smiling in church, no being happy in church, and no experiencing hope in church. Communion came around, and I just passed it on down the row because I wasn’t going to do something when I didn’t know what it meant.Then the minister started to speak. He had such a nice comforting voice. Didn’t all ministers yell at the top of their voices? That’s all I’d ever seen from evangelists on television. He was talking about peace and hope and grace. What were those? I thought preachers only talked about hell and how we’re all bad people and that’s where we’re all going. And then he said it. He said the name Jesus. Who was Jesus? I had heard of God and heard the name Jesus Christ used as a curse word when people got angry, but I had never heard who Jesus was. The minister talked about being in a relationship with Jesus and Jesus being the bridge that allows us to have a relationship with God.I still felt uncomfortable and awkward when I left, but when my friends invited me to go with them again about three weeks later, I agreed.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
While I’ve always enjoyed writing and my teachers and professors always said I was a good writer, I never really seriously considered becoming an author. Then my husband of 12 years died in 2008 at age 49. He threw a blood clot approximately 15 hours post-surgery for a hip replacement. We held his funeral on what should have been his 50th birthday. I started writing as a way to express my thoughts and my grief.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Because From Zero to Christian in Just 35 Years deals with a journey from being a non-believer to a believer, it's written in first person and provides personal examples of incidents in my life. Missing Andy is the same thing. I write about what I know because I’ve lived it. I have a passion for adults who haven’t yet experienced a relationship with Christ because everything they’ve heard is kind of formal and scary, so I try to write with humor and on a down-to-earth level that people can relate to and understand.
5. Are you a reader ?
Absolutely. Growing up, I was a voracious reader. I always won the contests for who had read the most books over the summer. Growing up, I didn’t realize that my childhood wasn’t like that of most people, so I guess that reading was my escape and opportunity to explore new things and new places.
6. What are you reading right now?
The Left Behind Series. I’m on #9. A few years ago a friend told me that I would like them, calling them the Christian version of Stephen King books, but I never bothered to pick them up. Then in January of this year, another friend was cleaning out her closets in anticipation of moving and offered the whole set for free to the first person to respond to her Facebook message. I won! I read the first 8 in a week and a half, then got busy and haven’t settled back down into devouring the rest of them yet. Even though the series is fictional, it really helps me to better understand the Book of Revelation.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I’ve often joked that I’m “allergic to children” because I don’t have any of my own, hadn’t had any nieces or nephews until recently, and have never babysat. But I have the most wonderful little kitty in the world, named Grady, so I wrote a children’s book about him, called Grady the Gray Cat. It should be released in Fall 2010 and they are currently working on the illustration of the book. Here’s a snippet: Grady is a little gray cat.Grady’s fur is gray; that’s why his mommy named him that.He isn’t too skinny and he isn’t too fat.And he lives in a home with two other cats.
8. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
From Zero to Christian in Just 35 Years Do you think church isn’t the place for you or that it’s too late for you to give your life to Christ? In her book From Zero to Christian in just 35 Years new author Lori A. Moore shows us how nothing in the past will keep God from loving us. Trusting God can be scary, especially when confronted with complex and formal language. Through this simple and easy going guide to finding God, inexperienced Christians will learn to emerge from doubt and fear into the peace and comfort that can only be found through Christ. Follow Lori as she goes From Zero to Christian in Just 35 Years. Missing Andy: The Journey From Grief to Joy We did everything we could. I’m sorry. With just those seven words, Andy was gone. Then everything was silent. He didn’t have to say the D word––dead. He was talking in past tense. It was obvious that Andy had passed away. In her latest book, Missing Andy: The Journey from Grief to Joy, author Lori A. Moore explains how to view the loss of a loved one as a celebration instead of a final event. After unexpectedly losing her ex-husband, who was also her best friend, due to a fatal blood clot, Lori found herself lost and numb, but working her way through the five stages of grief helped her rediscover true happiness. Now, Lori writes about her experiences to help those dealing with grief come to a place of understanding and acceptance. Take this journey with Lori and find out how Missing Andy furthered her relationship with God and showed her how to truly live again. Come out of a place of inconsolable sadness and discover the joy that can only be found through Christ Jesus.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. They are available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Borders, Lifeway, Tate Publishing and more. http://loriamoore.tatepublishing.net Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lori-A-Moore/54377903045?ref=ts#!/pages/Lori-A-Moore/54377903045?ref=ts Twitter: @Lori_A_Moore
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Loralyn Hamilton/Pixie Dust:Magical Insights for Childbirth and Life with Little Ones
"Work like you don't need the money.
Dance like nobody's watching.
Love like you have never been hurt."
Satchel Page
Yesterday I was listening to Rev Jenzen Franklin. He shared this quote from the first African-American pitcher in the baseball league. The good Reverend said that the most important part of the quote was the statement, "Love like you have never been hurt.
I had to chew on that for a bit. In my mind I grew up feeling that it was more acceptable to be "hurt" than "angry". You could forgive, but the hurt would still be there. This statement blows that theory out of the water.
When someone hurts me or spreads lies about me, it hurts. I am justified in my hurt about these things. Aren't I? I have been praying that I become known as a person who forgives.
In my mind I thought that I could forgive and still hold onto the hurt. I could even love the unlovely while remembering the hurt they cause. This quote messes all of that up. "Love like you have never been hurt." Is that even Scriptural?
I am afraid it is. Jesus said as He was on the cross, "Forgive them for they know not what they do." This kind of love is only possible with the help of our Father God. He promises to walk me through it. I am striving to follow in His steps while holding onto His hand.
Meet my new friend, Loralyn Hamilton.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Loralyn Hamilton / Pixie Dust:
Magical Insights for Childbirth and Life with Little Ones
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I love to write about people –
my gift is capturing the essence
of a person and being able to
portray that essence to the reader.
I also enjoy conversing abut spiritual
things – things I’ve studied that I’m
able to relay to others to hopefully help them.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
When I was 8.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
While I can speak and write very
formally, I intentionally write as I
speak in everyday language to help
he readers connect with the idea…
painting a visual and heartfelt image
of any topic. People often tell me
they hear my voice in their heads as
they read what I’ve written, as though
they were actually hearing it from me.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes. I love to read!
6. What are you reading right now?
First Rose by Mary Barton Wilcox – also a Tate Author
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes. It’s along the spiritual vein…
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Time would be my biggest obstacle
mostly – I make it though…obviously
it’s 2 a.m.!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
This book was designed to bridge the
gap between the last few months of
pregnancy and the first few months of
childbirth and makes a GREAT Baby
Shower gift book / gift book for pregnant
or new moms. Even if it’s not the first
child! Its’ 3 a.m. Your mind reels with
questions “What don’t I know…?”
“Have I taken care of everything?”
“What items are really necessary?”
“What should I do if…?” You may
find yourself wishing for a magical
helper, perhaps a sprinkle of Pixie
Dust to assist you through childbirth
and the early days of parenthood.
That helper has just arrived! In this
adorable and informative gift book
for pregnant and new moms, Author
Loralyn Hamilton has gathered Pixie
Dust: Magical Insights for Childbirth
and Life with Little One. These unique
and helpful insights from personal
experience and other mothers are sure
to provide reassuring comfort and peace
during the confusing times of childbirth
and the days to follow. From tidying
up before you go to the hospital, to
being out and about once you bring
Baby home, sprinkle this delightful
selection of anecdotes and advice
to magically create a more peaceful
and joyful life with little one! “All you
need is faith, trust, and a little bit of
Pixie Dust!” Peter Pan Author
Loralyn Hamilton is a full-time
mother and writer. She and her
husband, Daniel, currently reside
in Edmond, Oklahoma with their
daughter Caelyn.
10. How can readers contact you
or purchase your books? Please
put your website or blog here. http://www.wix.com/Impressionswriting/Loralyn-Hamilton
Dance like nobody's watching.
Love like you have never been hurt."
Satchel Page
Yesterday I was listening to Rev Jenzen Franklin. He shared this quote from the first African-American pitcher in the baseball league. The good Reverend said that the most important part of the quote was the statement, "Love like you have never been hurt.
I had to chew on that for a bit. In my mind I grew up feeling that it was more acceptable to be "hurt" than "angry". You could forgive, but the hurt would still be there. This statement blows that theory out of the water.
When someone hurts me or spreads lies about me, it hurts. I am justified in my hurt about these things. Aren't I? I have been praying that I become known as a person who forgives.
In my mind I thought that I could forgive and still hold onto the hurt. I could even love the unlovely while remembering the hurt they cause. This quote messes all of that up. "Love like you have never been hurt." Is that even Scriptural?
I am afraid it is. Jesus said as He was on the cross, "Forgive them for they know not what they do." This kind of love is only possible with the help of our Father God. He promises to walk me through it. I am striving to follow in His steps while holding onto His hand.
Meet my new friend, Loralyn Hamilton.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Loralyn Hamilton / Pixie Dust:
Magical Insights for Childbirth and Life with Little Ones
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I love to write about people –
my gift is capturing the essence
of a person and being able to
portray that essence to the reader.
I also enjoy conversing abut spiritual
things – things I’ve studied that I’m
able to relay to others to hopefully help them.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
When I was 8.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
While I can speak and write very
formally, I intentionally write as I
speak in everyday language to help
he readers connect with the idea…
painting a visual and heartfelt image
of any topic. People often tell me
they hear my voice in their heads as
they read what I’ve written, as though
they were actually hearing it from me.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes. I love to read!
6. What are you reading right now?
First Rose by Mary Barton Wilcox – also a Tate Author
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes. It’s along the spiritual vein…
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Time would be my biggest obstacle
mostly – I make it though…obviously
it’s 2 a.m.!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
This book was designed to bridge the
gap between the last few months of
pregnancy and the first few months of
childbirth and makes a GREAT Baby
Shower gift book / gift book for pregnant
or new moms. Even if it’s not the first
child! Its’ 3 a.m. Your mind reels with
questions “What don’t I know…?”
“Have I taken care of everything?”
“What items are really necessary?”
“What should I do if…?” You may
find yourself wishing for a magical
helper, perhaps a sprinkle of Pixie
Dust to assist you through childbirth
and the early days of parenthood.
That helper has just arrived! In this
adorable and informative gift book
for pregnant and new moms, Author
Loralyn Hamilton has gathered Pixie
Dust: Magical Insights for Childbirth
and Life with Little One. These unique
and helpful insights from personal
experience and other mothers are sure
to provide reassuring comfort and peace
during the confusing times of childbirth
and the days to follow. From tidying
up before you go to the hospital, to
being out and about once you bring
Baby home, sprinkle this delightful
selection of anecdotes and advice
to magically create a more peaceful
and joyful life with little one! “All you
need is faith, trust, and a little bit of
Pixie Dust!” Peter Pan Author
Loralyn Hamilton is a full-time
mother and writer. She and her
husband, Daniel, currently reside
in Edmond, Oklahoma with their
daughter Caelyn.
10. How can readers contact you
or purchase your books? Please
put your website or blog here. http://www.wix.com/Impressionswriting/Loralyn-Hamilton
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Janet Izzo
Mask
The mask in history was used to give the wearer a different persona. Some of them were used in war to frighten the enemy thus, giving an advantage. They were used in funerals to "mask" the face of the departed one, especially when the ravages of death took its toll.
The facial expression of the mask did not necessarily match the feelings of the wearer. In theatre, many times the ridiculous smile on the mask was contrary to what the character portrayed in the act.
Let's get down to the truth. Today, people wear masks all the time. They are not physical ones made of plastic or paper mache', but they are walls that are built around our real self to keep everyone at arm's length.
How many times do people "put on a stiff upper-lip"? How many times to we "smile through the pain" or "shake it off"? When was the last time you "put on your best face"?
Many people have worn their masks so long that their friends and family believe the persona is who they really are, until the mask starts cracking. Any mask is not designed to be used 24/7. It is for a short specific use. For example: Hockey players, catchers, actors on stage, and the various trick-or-treaters only wear the mask for a specific time period.
What do we do when the mask that we have hidden behind starts to peel off? Some of us, put another one over the original one. We dare not let anyone see the pain we have been hiding. Eventually, the mask(s) fall to the ground. There is no place to hide. Our bare face is revealed to our world.
How do we get to this place? Why can we not continue the masquerade? We were not created to carry all of the baggage in our lives alone. No one can make it through this life alone. Sometimes, our masks are ripped off because of illness, whether it be our own or someone we love.
The friends and family who are used to your persona will have to learn to know the real you. It will be a journey worth the task. Your pain and anger will be something everyone will learn to look at and deal with. They may feel betrayed because of the front that your put on so long.
The Lord Jesus Christ will walk with you through this. He has known you all along. Your mask(s)were never enough to hide the real you from Him. He wants you to know Him, too. Let Him help you become "real" all the time. You are worth it.
Now meet my friend, Janet Izzo.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Janet Izzo, RN, author of "Hotel Hennepin" This book chronicles my career working as a staff and "charge" nurse in a busy county hospital on an obstetrics unit. The stories are poignant, sad, and hysterically funny but all are amazingly true!
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I returned to college for my nursing degree with a husband and three children at home. From the time I was a little girl, I knew I would be a nurse one day. I just didn't think my "one day" would arrive in my thirties!
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I wrote a column in college entitled "Over the Hill" which targeted those of us who were over thirty and still working on our degrees. I have always loved to write and from the first moment I stepped into "Hotel Hennepin"(better known as Hennepin County Medical Center... in the heart of Minneapolis) I knew I would be writing a book about it!
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I think I write exactly as I speak. People who know me say that when they read one of my stories, it's as if I were standing in right in front of them. I don't know if that's a good thing or not. It may be kind of creepy!
5. Are you a reader?
When I have time.
6. What are you reading right now?
Steven Covey's best seller...7 habits...
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it. Every Friday I take my seven year old granddaughter to her piano lesson. One Friday she asked if we could go to the library to get a book about a little girl who played the piano. Well, there aren't any. I have searched everywhere. So of course, being the gramimi who wants to please everyone, I wrote it myself. It is entitled "The Piano Lesson." I have not submitted it yet. I may self publish this time.
I am also working on a study guide/workbook for nursing students to use with "Hotel Hennepin."
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? Worrying about the marketing...believe it or not. I speak to nursing students across the nation and while I love to do it, 90% of my life is marketing and only 10% is writing, selling books, speaking and preparing to speak. Lets face it...I'm a nurse first. This has been a huge obstacle and challenge to learn the marketing business! Reading marketing books and online tutorials have been very helpful.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Hotel Hennepin chronicles the true stories of a nursing career in a large county hospital. From the time she was young, Janet Izzo knew she would become a nurse one day. As a young candystriper, the sight of vomit made her vomit. She outgrew that little problem just as her mother said she would! After having her own three children, the time had come for her to return to college. She attended classes with students nearly half her age, but she succeeded and even excelled despite the fact many doubted she could do it!.
Janet now travels and speaks to nursing students across the nation on the topic, "Nurses Can Make the Difference"...which she believes with her whole heart!
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here
My email is janetizzo@usfamily.net and my website is www.janetizzo.com I also do a Monday morning "blog" entitled, "the Health Nut News" which is a funny little blurb about health...sometimes helpful and sometimes just "nutty." Send me your email address if you wish to be included on the Health Nut News. "Hotel Hennepin" can be purchased at any book store or from my website.
The mask in history was used to give the wearer a different persona. Some of them were used in war to frighten the enemy thus, giving an advantage. They were used in funerals to "mask" the face of the departed one, especially when the ravages of death took its toll.
The facial expression of the mask did not necessarily match the feelings of the wearer. In theatre, many times the ridiculous smile on the mask was contrary to what the character portrayed in the act.
Let's get down to the truth. Today, people wear masks all the time. They are not physical ones made of plastic or paper mache', but they are walls that are built around our real self to keep everyone at arm's length.
How many times do people "put on a stiff upper-lip"? How many times to we "smile through the pain" or "shake it off"? When was the last time you "put on your best face"?
Many people have worn their masks so long that their friends and family believe the persona is who they really are, until the mask starts cracking. Any mask is not designed to be used 24/7. It is for a short specific use. For example: Hockey players, catchers, actors on stage, and the various trick-or-treaters only wear the mask for a specific time period.
What do we do when the mask that we have hidden behind starts to peel off? Some of us, put another one over the original one. We dare not let anyone see the pain we have been hiding. Eventually, the mask(s) fall to the ground. There is no place to hide. Our bare face is revealed to our world.
How do we get to this place? Why can we not continue the masquerade? We were not created to carry all of the baggage in our lives alone. No one can make it through this life alone. Sometimes, our masks are ripped off because of illness, whether it be our own or someone we love.
The friends and family who are used to your persona will have to learn to know the real you. It will be a journey worth the task. Your pain and anger will be something everyone will learn to look at and deal with. They may feel betrayed because of the front that your put on so long.
The Lord Jesus Christ will walk with you through this. He has known you all along. Your mask(s)were never enough to hide the real you from Him. He wants you to know Him, too. Let Him help you become "real" all the time. You are worth it.
Now meet my friend, Janet Izzo.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Janet Izzo, RN, author of "Hotel Hennepin" This book chronicles my career working as a staff and "charge" nurse in a busy county hospital on an obstetrics unit. The stories are poignant, sad, and hysterically funny but all are amazingly true!
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I returned to college for my nursing degree with a husband and three children at home. From the time I was a little girl, I knew I would be a nurse one day. I just didn't think my "one day" would arrive in my thirties!
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I wrote a column in college entitled "Over the Hill" which targeted those of us who were over thirty and still working on our degrees. I have always loved to write and from the first moment I stepped into "Hotel Hennepin"(better known as Hennepin County Medical Center... in the heart of Minneapolis) I knew I would be writing a book about it!
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I think I write exactly as I speak. People who know me say that when they read one of my stories, it's as if I were standing in right in front of them. I don't know if that's a good thing or not. It may be kind of creepy!
5. Are you a reader?
When I have time.
6. What are you reading right now?
Steven Covey's best seller...7 habits...
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it. Every Friday I take my seven year old granddaughter to her piano lesson. One Friday she asked if we could go to the library to get a book about a little girl who played the piano. Well, there aren't any. I have searched everywhere. So of course, being the gramimi who wants to please everyone, I wrote it myself. It is entitled "The Piano Lesson." I have not submitted it yet. I may self publish this time.
I am also working on a study guide/workbook for nursing students to use with "Hotel Hennepin."
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? Worrying about the marketing...believe it or not. I speak to nursing students across the nation and while I love to do it, 90% of my life is marketing and only 10% is writing, selling books, speaking and preparing to speak. Lets face it...I'm a nurse first. This has been a huge obstacle and challenge to learn the marketing business! Reading marketing books and online tutorials have been very helpful.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Hotel Hennepin chronicles the true stories of a nursing career in a large county hospital. From the time she was young, Janet Izzo knew she would become a nurse one day. As a young candystriper, the sight of vomit made her vomit. She outgrew that little problem just as her mother said she would! After having her own three children, the time had come for her to return to college. She attended classes with students nearly half her age, but she succeeded and even excelled despite the fact many doubted she could do it!.
Janet now travels and speaks to nursing students across the nation on the topic, "Nurses Can Make the Difference"...which she believes with her whole heart!
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here
My email is janetizzo@usfamily.net and my website is www.janetizzo.com I also do a Monday morning "blog" entitled, "the Health Nut News" which is a funny little blurb about health...sometimes helpful and sometimes just "nutty." Send me your email address if you wish to be included on the Health Nut News. "Hotel Hennepin" can be purchased at any book store or from my website.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Patricia Kubus, author of "Amanda Helps Becky Say Farewell"
Introspection
Last week I was asked to do an internet radio interview. One of the questions that was asked was: "Why do you write?"
Hmmmmm It had been a long time since I took time to answer that question. I do ask if of myself on occasion, but once again I was standing with this question to be addressed.
I love to write. When I am working on a book or article I feel very close to God. I feel His inspiration behind the stories that I tell. The character's interactions are a little like the way my sons are with their dad and me. It takes me back when I write the ligt-hearted scenes.
The troublesome scenes sometimes/most times are struggles that the Lord is working on me about. In "Nan's Journey", it was forgiveness. In "Elk's Resolve" it was overcoming depression. In "Luke's Legacy" it was realizing that God has no grandchildren. Everyone makes the decision for Jesus on their own no matter how much I want to make that decision for them.
Book IV, "Timothy's Home", is still in my laptop. I am thinking that the message of this book will be mostly about God's grace.
I write because I learn so much about God and I learn about myself. I write because, maybe, if you or someone you know reads my book, you will see answers to questions you have about everyday life and how Jesus makes a difference.
A new author friend of mine is Patricia Kubus. You will love reading her interview that she did for me.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Patricia Kubus, I use my author name with my maiden name Patricia Goskowski Kubus. The title of my first Children's book is "Amanda Helps Becky Say Farewell"
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
One important information I would like my readers or I should say the parent's of my readers to know is that I am a dedicated and compassionate mother, I place these feelings in my writings. I love my children, along with all children as well.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer? My relaxation as a child growing into my years as an adult was poetry. Writing poetry always came natural to me and I found myself many nights writing my feelings in poetry to share with family members. My first born had died from complications of a birth defect, my writings turned into stories with summarized poetry; which helped me through tough times and I am now passing it along to be published to share with the world.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I have only published the one story; which focuses on tough questions for a child about death. In each of my future stories, I pick situations that children find themselves in that are difficult to deal with; such as getting stuck in an elevator, going to school for the first time, and getting bullied around. These are situations where I find my character, Amanda the Angel can come in and help with questions each child has and/or keep them company for a moment to help them thru it. At the end, I summarize the story in a poem, which I think might be a nice reminder that they can hang on their wall or place in their side drawer to refer to from time to time.
5. Are you a reader?
Now I read more than I have in years past. I'm finding it fun now to be on good reads and do recommendations about books I've read. My children are young and I do what I can to keep their interest in books.
6. What are you reading right now?
"Getting Through the Tough Stuff" by Charles R. Swindoll
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
I have four books tucked away.
I actually found myself with an interesting option. Now that I have published my first book, my son came to me with a story he would like me to write. He gave me the core elements of the story of a young boy who's a basketball player. This player is pressured by the team that he needs to play better and my son wants me to have Amanda come in and help this boy with his pressure from the team players. My son wants me to point out in learning the fact that it's just a game and this young boy shouldn't have to carry such a burden to win. I was so blown away that my child took the time to write a story for me. I'm feeling compelled to write this next one just for him. It's a great feeling to know I'm pulling a little inspiration out of my child.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I would have to say, my biggest obstacle is patience. I know if I write and then walk away from it, the next time I come back to it, makes it even better. Sometimes I force to much, because I'm anxious to get it done; when I let the right people help me to read it and I digest it, then come back to it, I make it better.
9. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. Log onto: www.patriciakubus.com
Last week I was asked to do an internet radio interview. One of the questions that was asked was: "Why do you write?"
Hmmmmm It had been a long time since I took time to answer that question. I do ask if of myself on occasion, but once again I was standing with this question to be addressed.
I love to write. When I am working on a book or article I feel very close to God. I feel His inspiration behind the stories that I tell. The character's interactions are a little like the way my sons are with their dad and me. It takes me back when I write the ligt-hearted scenes.
The troublesome scenes sometimes/most times are struggles that the Lord is working on me about. In "Nan's Journey", it was forgiveness. In "Elk's Resolve" it was overcoming depression. In "Luke's Legacy" it was realizing that God has no grandchildren. Everyone makes the decision for Jesus on their own no matter how much I want to make that decision for them.
Book IV, "Timothy's Home", is still in my laptop. I am thinking that the message of this book will be mostly about God's grace.
I write because I learn so much about God and I learn about myself. I write because, maybe, if you or someone you know reads my book, you will see answers to questions you have about everyday life and how Jesus makes a difference.
A new author friend of mine is Patricia Kubus. You will love reading her interview that she did for me.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Patricia Kubus, I use my author name with my maiden name Patricia Goskowski Kubus. The title of my first Children's book is "Amanda Helps Becky Say Farewell"
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
One important information I would like my readers or I should say the parent's of my readers to know is that I am a dedicated and compassionate mother, I place these feelings in my writings. I love my children, along with all children as well.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer? My relaxation as a child growing into my years as an adult was poetry. Writing poetry always came natural to me and I found myself many nights writing my feelings in poetry to share with family members. My first born had died from complications of a birth defect, my writings turned into stories with summarized poetry; which helped me through tough times and I am now passing it along to be published to share with the world.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I have only published the one story; which focuses on tough questions for a child about death. In each of my future stories, I pick situations that children find themselves in that are difficult to deal with; such as getting stuck in an elevator, going to school for the first time, and getting bullied around. These are situations where I find my character, Amanda the Angel can come in and help with questions each child has and/or keep them company for a moment to help them thru it. At the end, I summarize the story in a poem, which I think might be a nice reminder that they can hang on their wall or place in their side drawer to refer to from time to time.
5. Are you a reader?
Now I read more than I have in years past. I'm finding it fun now to be on good reads and do recommendations about books I've read. My children are young and I do what I can to keep their interest in books.
6. What are you reading right now?
"Getting Through the Tough Stuff" by Charles R. Swindoll
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
I have four books tucked away.
I actually found myself with an interesting option. Now that I have published my first book, my son came to me with a story he would like me to write. He gave me the core elements of the story of a young boy who's a basketball player. This player is pressured by the team that he needs to play better and my son wants me to have Amanda come in and help this boy with his pressure from the team players. My son wants me to point out in learning the fact that it's just a game and this young boy shouldn't have to carry such a burden to win. I was so blown away that my child took the time to write a story for me. I'm feeling compelled to write this next one just for him. It's a great feeling to know I'm pulling a little inspiration out of my child.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I would have to say, my biggest obstacle is patience. I know if I write and then walk away from it, the next time I come back to it, makes it even better. Sometimes I force to much, because I'm anxious to get it done; when I let the right people help me to read it and I digest it, then come back to it, I make it better.
9. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. Log onto: www.patriciakubus.com
Friday, September 10, 2010
Singing With Jesus
I have to tell you something that I thought of this morning before I go and get ready.
A year or so ago as I went to sleep I whispered something like "I love you , Lord."
Towards morning I had a vivid dream.
I heard a man's baratone voice singing so beautifully. It was like a love song...only not really. I knew he was singing to my friend, Rhonda. I soon realized that it was Jesus' voice. I was so happy for Rhonda.
She sang back..now she sings so well...it blessed me so much. He sang with her. Tears were in my eyes because of the joy I felt and was so glad for her.
The voice came close to my ear and was saying things like, "I love you and I have chosen you to love..." I realized that I felt His breath on my cheek and Jesus was singing to me. I threw back my head and sang with a strong and wonderful voice (that I do not naturally possess) I felt the song start out of my toes and move through my body and the top of my head. I knew that I was singing with every fiber of my being. I held nothing back. "Open the eyes of my heart, Lord. Open the eyes of my heart. I want to see You. I want to see YOU." (That song was brand new to me at the time)
He began singing back to me and I joined in with a song I didn't know. It was pure worship. I sang so hard that I was spent, but new vigor returned to my body as I sang with Him. We sang together a long time.
I awoke and felt His Presence in the room. I was softly humming and had such joy rushing out of me. I felt peace and strength all day. Every time I think about it, the thrill rushes over me again.
During the next week I began listening to a preaching tape. The speaker said something about the Lord singing over us. He then sang a song that was inspired from the Lord called, "Sing Over Me Again". I just knelt down in my living room and worshipped about the goodness and kindness of God.
I share this with you today, because I know you need to know that Jesus loves you and sings over you. He wants you to be encouraged by his goodness and kindness. He always wants to hear whatever you have to say. He really is listening.
A year or so ago as I went to sleep I whispered something like "I love you , Lord."
Towards morning I had a vivid dream.
I heard a man's baratone voice singing so beautifully. It was like a love song...only not really. I knew he was singing to my friend, Rhonda. I soon realized that it was Jesus' voice. I was so happy for Rhonda.
She sang back..now she sings so well...it blessed me so much. He sang with her. Tears were in my eyes because of the joy I felt and was so glad for her.
The voice came close to my ear and was saying things like, "I love you and I have chosen you to love..." I realized that I felt His breath on my cheek and Jesus was singing to me. I threw back my head and sang with a strong and wonderful voice (that I do not naturally possess) I felt the song start out of my toes and move through my body and the top of my head. I knew that I was singing with every fiber of my being. I held nothing back. "Open the eyes of my heart, Lord. Open the eyes of my heart. I want to see You. I want to see YOU." (That song was brand new to me at the time)
He began singing back to me and I joined in with a song I didn't know. It was pure worship. I sang so hard that I was spent, but new vigor returned to my body as I sang with Him. We sang together a long time.
I awoke and felt His Presence in the room. I was softly humming and had such joy rushing out of me. I felt peace and strength all day. Every time I think about it, the thrill rushes over me again.
During the next week I began listening to a preaching tape. The speaker said something about the Lord singing over us. He then sang a song that was inspired from the Lord called, "Sing Over Me Again". I just knelt down in my living room and worshipped about the goodness and kindness of God.
I share this with you today, because I know you need to know that Jesus loves you and sings over you. He wants you to be encouraged by his goodness and kindness. He always wants to hear whatever you have to say. He really is listening.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Choosing a Cover for Luke's Legacy
Yesterday I was sent selections for covers for Luke's Legacy. I thought I already had in mind exactly what I wanted. The designer came up with some very good ideas. I took a survey of which cover readers liked best. They surprised me by choosing one that I didn't think fit. The second place was very close to the first vote getter. See which ones grab you.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Barbara Taylor Blomiquist, author of Randy's Ride
"How Many Books Did You Read This Year?"
That was a question from a third grade boy that I saw when I spoke to the Wright Elementary School. Lucky for me I was able to say, "Last year I read over 52 books." The Third graders and some of the teachers were breathless. Let me ask you something simular. How many books were you planning to read this summer. Most of the summer is gone. You may need to make a trip to the library or amazon.com and get after it. Let me urge you to do something different. Give a new author a chance. Don't always go for the best seller department. Look for local people or even some of the people I have interviewed here. You may be surprised to find a new favorite author.
I want to introduce Barbara Taylor Blomquist, author of Randy's Ride, to you.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
I have two books published to date. Both are authored under my full name - Barbara Taylor Blomquist. The first is "Insight Into Adoption" (now in its second edition) and my second book, (my first novel) is "Randy's Ride".
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Some would consider me in 'the golden years'. The benefit of that, however, is as most senior citizens will attest to, we've had many valuable life experiences. I've learned so many lessons from others, mainly having worked for years with conflicted families.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I was excited when I was 8 years old and a palm reader told me I would one day be a writer. I don't believe in palm readers and I guess my track record shows it - I didn't write seriously for almost 60 more years! Should have started sooner.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Because I like to learn something when I read, I like to write in the same vein. I like to close a book and say to myself, "I never thought of it that way or I never knew that." So, I try to give readers some informative thoughts, and then it's up to them to agree or disagree. I love to hear readers tell me - "I loved your book. It took me to a place I'd never been and I now understand and am empathetic to adoption issues." Then they add, "But you know, what you write about applies to everyone." When I hear that, I know I've done my job.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes, I love to read, to see how authors put words together to create thoughts and moods.
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished a book about George Washington I picked up at a charity book fair. It's "George Washington, the Indispensable Man" by James Thomas Flexner. The author condensed four volumes into one.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I'm in the editing phase of my next book, "Matt's Wife". It's the story of a young woman who grew up insecure with her identity, not that unusual for an adoptee. The only thing she wanted in life was to be someone's wife - so she wouldn't have to accomplish anything all by herself. After having three children, she found she wasn't satisfied with her life and still didn't know who she was. Through a series of events, she discovers she, and only she, is responsible for her identity. Although the main character is adopted, the question she needs an answer to applies to everyone.
Both my novels, "Randy's Ride" and "Matt's Wife" address the issue of personal identity, and the main characters are faced with the question, "Who am I?" By the end of both novels they have their answers.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Lack of time. I announce to my family at least once a year that I'm setting aside the next 2 to 3 months to write and/or edit 4 to 8 hours a day. I recommend they call me only in the case of an emergency. They're very understanding.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
"Insight Into Adoption" I wrote as an adoptive parent for other adoptive parents. It addresses issues adoption professionals don't tell you about. In many of my counseling sessions, adoptive parents urged me to put something in writing so they could refer to it when they had pressing issues. Adult adoptees have told me after they have read the book that they thought, "She's writing about me. I've never told anyone how I feel, but this book describes me perfectly." Many have shared it with their adoptive parents to help their parents understand how an adoptee feels as a child. The book explains the unique issues of both adoptees and adoptive parents.
"Randy's Ride" is a story of a teen aged adoptee who leaves a loving home because he feels he doesn't fit it. During 18 months on the road, events and people teach Randy many of life's lessons, including where "home" truly is. The book is about an adopted teenager, but the lesson he learns is a lesson everyone learns sooner or later - that we are responsible for our own lives and it's up to us to make our own individual way in the world.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
I can be contacted through email at baybar@juno.com. My website is- barbarablomquist.tatepulishing.net/
My books can be purchased online through Amazon, Barnes and Noble,and Borders or at any book store. In addition, "Randy's Ride" can be purchased through Tate Publishing and "Insight Into Adoption" can be purchased through Charles C. Thomas Publishers.
That was a question from a third grade boy that I saw when I spoke to the Wright Elementary School. Lucky for me I was able to say, "Last year I read over 52 books." The Third graders and some of the teachers were breathless. Let me ask you something simular. How many books were you planning to read this summer. Most of the summer is gone. You may need to make a trip to the library or amazon.com and get after it. Let me urge you to do something different. Give a new author a chance. Don't always go for the best seller department. Look for local people or even some of the people I have interviewed here. You may be surprised to find a new favorite author.
I want to introduce Barbara Taylor Blomquist, author of Randy's Ride, to you.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
I have two books published to date. Both are authored under my full name - Barbara Taylor Blomquist. The first is "Insight Into Adoption" (now in its second edition) and my second book, (my first novel) is "Randy's Ride".
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Some would consider me in 'the golden years'. The benefit of that, however, is as most senior citizens will attest to, we've had many valuable life experiences. I've learned so many lessons from others, mainly having worked for years with conflicted families.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I was excited when I was 8 years old and a palm reader told me I would one day be a writer. I don't believe in palm readers and I guess my track record shows it - I didn't write seriously for almost 60 more years! Should have started sooner.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Because I like to learn something when I read, I like to write in the same vein. I like to close a book and say to myself, "I never thought of it that way or I never knew that." So, I try to give readers some informative thoughts, and then it's up to them to agree or disagree. I love to hear readers tell me - "I loved your book. It took me to a place I'd never been and I now understand and am empathetic to adoption issues." Then they add, "But you know, what you write about applies to everyone." When I hear that, I know I've done my job.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes, I love to read, to see how authors put words together to create thoughts and moods.
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished a book about George Washington I picked up at a charity book fair. It's "George Washington, the Indispensable Man" by James Thomas Flexner. The author condensed four volumes into one.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I'm in the editing phase of my next book, "Matt's Wife". It's the story of a young woman who grew up insecure with her identity, not that unusual for an adoptee. The only thing she wanted in life was to be someone's wife - so she wouldn't have to accomplish anything all by herself. After having three children, she found she wasn't satisfied with her life and still didn't know who she was. Through a series of events, she discovers she, and only she, is responsible for her identity. Although the main character is adopted, the question she needs an answer to applies to everyone.
Both my novels, "Randy's Ride" and "Matt's Wife" address the issue of personal identity, and the main characters are faced with the question, "Who am I?" By the end of both novels they have their answers.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Lack of time. I announce to my family at least once a year that I'm setting aside the next 2 to 3 months to write and/or edit 4 to 8 hours a day. I recommend they call me only in the case of an emergency. They're very understanding.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
"Insight Into Adoption" I wrote as an adoptive parent for other adoptive parents. It addresses issues adoption professionals don't tell you about. In many of my counseling sessions, adoptive parents urged me to put something in writing so they could refer to it when they had pressing issues. Adult adoptees have told me after they have read the book that they thought, "She's writing about me. I've never told anyone how I feel, but this book describes me perfectly." Many have shared it with their adoptive parents to help their parents understand how an adoptee feels as a child. The book explains the unique issues of both adoptees and adoptive parents.
"Randy's Ride" is a story of a teen aged adoptee who leaves a loving home because he feels he doesn't fit it. During 18 months on the road, events and people teach Randy many of life's lessons, including where "home" truly is. The book is about an adopted teenager, but the lesson he learns is a lesson everyone learns sooner or later - that we are responsible for our own lives and it's up to us to make our own individual way in the world.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
I can be contacted through email at baybar@juno.com. My website is- barbarablomquist.tatepulishing.net/
My books can be purchased online through Amazon, Barnes and Noble,and Borders or at any book store. In addition, "Randy's Ride" can be purchased through Tate Publishing and "Insight Into Adoption" can be purchased through Charles C. Thomas Publishers.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
August is Here
August is Here!
Many things go through my mind at this time of year. Have I savored the summer? Did I really take time to be aware of everything?
You know how it is. You drive to town and don't even notice the scenery, neighborhood, flowers, or people.
In fact, last June I was headed back to my house from town and finally realized that the wheat was ripe! I am not a farmer, but there are massive wheat fields between my house and town. I didn't see the yellow fields on my way into town.
Things like this bug me. I wonder if I live my life going through the paces. Do you ever find yourself doing that? Let's commit to being aware, savoring moments, living life with our eyes wide open. Lets become aware of the goodness of God all around us.
I want to introduce Mary Lee, an author friend of mine to you.
1.What is your name and the titl
of your book(s)?
My name is Mary Lee. The title of my children’s book is My “Air Force” Mom.
2. What is one thing your readers would like to know about you?
I am a retired Master Sergeant from the United States Air Force after 24 years of service.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
My husband and I were vacationing in Black Mountain, NC. Sitting on a swing in the yard of a B&B looking at the mountains, I thought of a poem. I wrote it down and my love for writing was ignited.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My strong points are persistence and being confident enough to accept rejections and keep writing. My method is to write from 1 to 3 pages everyday, some days more but never less. I keep a small notebook of titles and ideas.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes!
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished reading Deliver Us from Evil, by David Baldacci. Now, I am reading Reckless by Andrew Gross
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn’t been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes, I am working on another children’s book. I wrote it several years ago but have been tweaking it for some time. I found a book Writing Picture Books by Ann Whitford Paul to be so full of information and ideas that I went through her book, completing the exercises. I decided to rewrite my book from the child’s point of view instead of the grandmother’s point of view. My book is about Katie learning to handle bullies at her school using humor. Katie comes to her decision after hearing a story from her grandmother who had used humor to resolve and embarrassing moment in her life.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I need a deadline. I love to start writing, but finishing is a different matter. I overcome this obstacle by submitting my manuscripts to writing contest. This gives me a finish date which is the motivator I need.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
A winner in the Children’s Fiction Category of the 73 Annual Writer’s Digest Writing Competition, My “Air Force” Mom is unique. This picture book explores customs and courtesies of military culture through a child’s eyes. Author Mary Lee takes your child along with her fictional character Susie on a journey of discovery. From military uniforms through a military child’s “rite of passage” full circle to Susie’s development of a sense of pride and patriotism in our country. My “Air Force” Mom shows children that the military offers careers to women as well as men. It gives military moms and dads a book to help their young children begin to understand military life. My “Air Force” Mom gives civilian parents a tool to explain mysteries of military life to their children. Answers to a child’s curiosity are found in My “Air Force” Mom.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers may purchase my book at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore, Amazon.com, Barnes&noble.com or at Waldenbooks at Sumter Mall in Sumter, SC, and the State Museum Gift Shop, Columbia, SC. My book is available on the Military Writers Society of America website.
Many things go through my mind at this time of year. Have I savored the summer? Did I really take time to be aware of everything?
You know how it is. You drive to town and don't even notice the scenery, neighborhood, flowers, or people.
In fact, last June I was headed back to my house from town and finally realized that the wheat was ripe! I am not a farmer, but there are massive wheat fields between my house and town. I didn't see the yellow fields on my way into town.
Things like this bug me. I wonder if I live my life going through the paces. Do you ever find yourself doing that? Let's commit to being aware, savoring moments, living life with our eyes wide open. Lets become aware of the goodness of God all around us.
I want to introduce Mary Lee, an author friend of mine to you.
1.What is your name and the titl
of your book(s)?
My name is Mary Lee. The title of my children’s book is My “Air Force” Mom.
2. What is one thing your readers would like to know about you?
I am a retired Master Sergeant from the United States Air Force after 24 years of service.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
My husband and I were vacationing in Black Mountain, NC. Sitting on a swing in the yard of a B&B looking at the mountains, I thought of a poem. I wrote it down and my love for writing was ignited.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My strong points are persistence and being confident enough to accept rejections and keep writing. My method is to write from 1 to 3 pages everyday, some days more but never less. I keep a small notebook of titles and ideas.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes!
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished reading Deliver Us from Evil, by David Baldacci. Now, I am reading Reckless by Andrew Gross
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn’t been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes, I am working on another children’s book. I wrote it several years ago but have been tweaking it for some time. I found a book Writing Picture Books by Ann Whitford Paul to be so full of information and ideas that I went through her book, completing the exercises. I decided to rewrite my book from the child’s point of view instead of the grandmother’s point of view. My book is about Katie learning to handle bullies at her school using humor. Katie comes to her decision after hearing a story from her grandmother who had used humor to resolve and embarrassing moment in her life.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I need a deadline. I love to start writing, but finishing is a different matter. I overcome this obstacle by submitting my manuscripts to writing contest. This gives me a finish date which is the motivator I need.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
A winner in the Children’s Fiction Category of the 73 Annual Writer’s Digest Writing Competition, My “Air Force” Mom is unique. This picture book explores customs and courtesies of military culture through a child’s eyes. Author Mary Lee takes your child along with her fictional character Susie on a journey of discovery. From military uniforms through a military child’s “rite of passage” full circle to Susie’s development of a sense of pride and patriotism in our country. My “Air Force” Mom shows children that the military offers careers to women as well as men. It gives military moms and dads a book to help their young children begin to understand military life. My “Air Force” Mom gives civilian parents a tool to explain mysteries of military life to their children. Answers to a child’s curiosity are found in My “Air Force” Mom.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers may purchase my book at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore, Amazon.com, Barnes&noble.com or at Waldenbooks at Sumter Mall in Sumter, SC, and the State Museum Gift Shop, Columbia, SC. My book is available on the Military Writers Society of America website.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Janie Wilkins, author of Janie's Unbelievable Journey
Hot Days of Summer
July is almost gone and we are in the middle of the hot days of summer. It doesn't seem so long ago that we were fighting the blustery winds of winter. It reminds me that no matter where we are on the calendar year or in the season of our life, that there are challenges. We need to learn to just keep on going.
Look for the good things in your life. Watch for the kindness of God in your life.
When I spoke to the Stonecroft Women's group in Dodge City one of the cute little favors at my plate was a paper doll with an orange flavored Tootsie Roll Pop attached. (My favorite!!!) I took it as a little kiss from God. I mentioned this to the group in my speech and when I got to my spot at the table there were 6 of them stuck inside my Bible. That was way too sweet and I cried.
Another big kindness of God was that I was assigned the conceptual editor that I had for Elk's Resolve. What a blessing! I am so happy about that.
I also am blessed to be acquainted with some very special author friends. I learn from them every day. I want to intoduce you to one of my newest friends, Janie Wilkins
1.My name is Janie Wilkins, and my book is "Janie's Unbelievable Journey: Inspirational Letters written along the Way."
2. I think my readers would
like to know that my faith in
God has enabled me to
overcome obstacles along
life's highway and to succeed
in helping students to grow
and learn and believe in themselves.
3.A Methodist minister told
me that I have a story to tell,
and God commanded me to
tell my story to help others
and to teach and inspire.
4.My strong points, according
to my own children and those
who know me best are that I
write from the heart, as I feel
led by God and that when one reads my stories and letters
that it is as if I were talking to them. This is my style as well.
5. I love to read, and I have read everything I could get my
hands on that is about real people. I love non-fiction
and history best of all.
6. I just completed reading
Max Lacado's "Traveling Light," which is on our United Methodist Women's reading
list.
7.My memoir is in two volumes, and volume two will be out
shortly after volume one is released.
8.My biggest obstacles to
writing are time, time, time, always. When I was
completing my manuscript
initially, I found that I had
to set goals and stay up
until I met the goal I had set. Since I had sponsored
school yearbooks most of
my working years, I applied
some of the rules and guidelines we established
to meet deadlines.
9. "Janie's Unbelievable
Journey: Inspirational
Letters Written along the
Way" is a true story of life
as a wife, mother and
educator. It lets the reader
know that we can accomplish
our dreams if we believe in ourselves and never give up!
You will want to read this
memoir to see how Janie
overcame obstacles to raise
three extraordinary adult
children the last one as a single parent.
10. Readers may contact me at Janiew3@aol.com or at my publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore
or at 888 361 9473
July is almost gone and we are in the middle of the hot days of summer. It doesn't seem so long ago that we were fighting the blustery winds of winter. It reminds me that no matter where we are on the calendar year or in the season of our life, that there are challenges. We need to learn to just keep on going.
Look for the good things in your life. Watch for the kindness of God in your life.
When I spoke to the Stonecroft Women's group in Dodge City one of the cute little favors at my plate was a paper doll with an orange flavored Tootsie Roll Pop attached. (My favorite!!!) I took it as a little kiss from God. I mentioned this to the group in my speech and when I got to my spot at the table there were 6 of them stuck inside my Bible. That was way too sweet and I cried.
Another big kindness of God was that I was assigned the conceptual editor that I had for Elk's Resolve. What a blessing! I am so happy about that.
I also am blessed to be acquainted with some very special author friends. I learn from them every day. I want to intoduce you to one of my newest friends, Janie Wilkins
1.My name is Janie Wilkins, and my book is "Janie's Unbelievable Journey: Inspirational Letters written along the Way."
2. I think my readers would
like to know that my faith in
God has enabled me to
overcome obstacles along
life's highway and to succeed
in helping students to grow
and learn and believe in themselves.
3.A Methodist minister told
me that I have a story to tell,
and God commanded me to
tell my story to help others
and to teach and inspire.
4.My strong points, according
to my own children and those
who know me best are that I
write from the heart, as I feel
led by God and that when one reads my stories and letters
that it is as if I were talking to them. This is my style as well.
5. I love to read, and I have read everything I could get my
hands on that is about real people. I love non-fiction
and history best of all.
6. I just completed reading
Max Lacado's "Traveling Light," which is on our United Methodist Women's reading
list.
7.My memoir is in two volumes, and volume two will be out
shortly after volume one is released.
8.My biggest obstacles to
writing are time, time, time, always. When I was
completing my manuscript
initially, I found that I had
to set goals and stay up
until I met the goal I had set. Since I had sponsored
school yearbooks most of
my working years, I applied
some of the rules and guidelines we established
to meet deadlines.
9. "Janie's Unbelievable
Journey: Inspirational
Letters Written along the
Way" is a true story of life
as a wife, mother and
educator. It lets the reader
know that we can accomplish
our dreams if we believe in ourselves and never give up!
You will want to read this
memoir to see how Janie
overcame obstacles to raise
three extraordinary adult
children the last one as a single parent.
10. Readers may contact me at Janiew3@aol.com or at my publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore
or at 888 361 9473
Saturday, July 17, 2010
The Price of Trust by Amanda Stephan
I love meeting my fellow authors. This week we have Amanda Stephan.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
I am Amanda Stephan and the title of my book is The Price of Trust.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
This is my first book, I've written two others, and I'm currently working on my fourth novel. The third and fourth are a series. I have ideas for a children's book, and many more ideas for my fifth and sixth books!
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer? I've always loved to write. In school, if I was given an assignment involving writing, I always went above and beyond. In college, I completely aced my English class because the professor had us write about specific topics. I never got below an A+. She was an awesome teacher...
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I really don't know what I could say my strong points are in my writing methods. My readers have told me that after they were finished with my book, they felt as if they were a part of the story, or that I had written the book exclusively for them. I hope my writing style is fun and happy, yet poignant and thought provoking.
5. Are you a reader?
I like to read, but not when I'm writing. If I have a book I'm working on, I won't read another book because I don't want to get fuzzy on my ideas!
6. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have two other books I haven't submitted for publication yet, and am working on my fourth novel. The second book is about a single mother who is trying to raise her two beloved children to the best of her ability in a Godly manner. These children are constantly trying to entangle their mother in romantic affairs. My third book I'd have to say is my favorite so far. (That's only because I'm not finished with my 4th!) The third book is about a woman who is tricked into marrying a man she's not even interested in, and decides that love isn't a romantic fluffy feeling in the pit of her stomach, she chooses to see what God can do with her marriage. It's a romantic mystery with an introduction to a serial killer. The fourth is the continuation of that story, focusing on her, her husband, and the killer.
7. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My largest obstacles are getting out of my comfort zone. I love to write, but I always feel silly so I tend to shy away from marketing my books. I'd love to just write and let someone else do all the other stuff!
8. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
The Price of Trust ~ Carly Richards is on the run. For the last two years, she's skipped from town to town, ducking her dangerous and well-informed ex-fiance every few weeks, never settling anywhere for long. With the death of her parents, Carly's vulnerability made her trust a man with an attractive facade. Now that same man has tracked her across the country, always nipping at her heels, preventing her from reaching out to anyone other than her God.
Now she's in Montana, and surely that is far enough away from Texas and her abusive past that she can rest. Without a car and money, she has little choice but to dig in and begin building back up her savings so she can run once more. Caught in the circumstances, the kind people around her begin to creep into her softening heart. God is at work, and she has to trust him to not only take care of her, but care for the people she is learning to love.
9. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. Please stop by my site and leave a comment, I'd love to hear from you! http://www.thepriceoftrust.com
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
I am Amanda Stephan and the title of my book is The Price of Trust.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
This is my first book, I've written two others, and I'm currently working on my fourth novel. The third and fourth are a series. I have ideas for a children's book, and many more ideas for my fifth and sixth books!
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer? I've always loved to write. In school, if I was given an assignment involving writing, I always went above and beyond. In college, I completely aced my English class because the professor had us write about specific topics. I never got below an A+. She was an awesome teacher...
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I really don't know what I could say my strong points are in my writing methods. My readers have told me that after they were finished with my book, they felt as if they were a part of the story, or that I had written the book exclusively for them. I hope my writing style is fun and happy, yet poignant and thought provoking.
5. Are you a reader?
I like to read, but not when I'm writing. If I have a book I'm working on, I won't read another book because I don't want to get fuzzy on my ideas!
6. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have two other books I haven't submitted for publication yet, and am working on my fourth novel. The second book is about a single mother who is trying to raise her two beloved children to the best of her ability in a Godly manner. These children are constantly trying to entangle their mother in romantic affairs. My third book I'd have to say is my favorite so far. (That's only because I'm not finished with my 4th!) The third book is about a woman who is tricked into marrying a man she's not even interested in, and decides that love isn't a romantic fluffy feeling in the pit of her stomach, she chooses to see what God can do with her marriage. It's a romantic mystery with an introduction to a serial killer. The fourth is the continuation of that story, focusing on her, her husband, and the killer.
7. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My largest obstacles are getting out of my comfort zone. I love to write, but I always feel silly so I tend to shy away from marketing my books. I'd love to just write and let someone else do all the other stuff!
8. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
The Price of Trust ~ Carly Richards is on the run. For the last two years, she's skipped from town to town, ducking her dangerous and well-informed ex-fiance every few weeks, never settling anywhere for long. With the death of her parents, Carly's vulnerability made her trust a man with an attractive facade. Now that same man has tracked her across the country, always nipping at her heels, preventing her from reaching out to anyone other than her God.
Now she's in Montana, and surely that is far enough away from Texas and her abusive past that she can rest. Without a car and money, she has little choice but to dig in and begin building back up her savings so she can run once more. Caught in the circumstances, the kind people around her begin to creep into her softening heart. God is at work, and she has to trust him to not only take care of her, but care for the people she is learning to love.
9. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. Please stop by my site and leave a comment, I'd love to hear from you! http://www.thepriceoftrust.com
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Home Always Beackons: A New Sunrise by Lana Lynne
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Home Always Beckons: A New Sunrise by Lana Lynne (The sequel was just accepted by my publisher and I will send that tirle once I have finished work with my editor)
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I write with the perspective of God's sovereignity and grace in the actuality of the tough roads which life can take.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I started writing on my mother's manual typewriter at the age of 10yrs with a vehement love of Louisa May Alcott and Laura Ingalls Wilder. However, I made another career choice, married, and was raising my family with my writing kept in a drawer or journal until my daughter was a teenager. That's when I decided to start on the journey which led to the publication of my first book.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
A playwright friend of mine told me my style is "the old storyteller" in which my words help you to feel you are really there and can hear the characters.
5. Are you a reader?
I have always loved to read--staying up late in the night to finish a good book!
6. What are you reading right now? Life's Healing Choices by John Baker
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
**As I mentioned before, the sequel to my first book has just been accepted for publication- it is set during beginning of the cattle drive period in 1867. I am also working on my third book which will complete the trilogy. It is set in Washington D.C. in 1874. Both of these new books include characters introduced in the first book, Home Always Beckons, as well as new characters.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Working full time and writing in the "after hours". The good Lord, a supportive husband, family, and friends who encourage me to keep going.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
I'll only include the one for Home Always Beckons now and will send updates for the second as its release date approaches: "Author Lana Lynne has written a historically poignant story filled with characters that will capture the hearts of teens and adults alike. Home Always Beckons emerges in the shadow of a war's end as lives are rebuilt and the treasure of enduring love is found. Marcus Johnson and John Wilkins marched from Rockport, Arkansas, over five years ago to aid in resolving the war that divided the nation. Many friends and family members fought beside them. Some returned home, spent and broken. Others remained where they had fallen, leaving only memories for their families. John and Marc had made a rare choice. They would not make the return journey for a time. They had found solace after the war in work with Texas cattlemen. Now the devastation they discover in their home state further deepens the waters of guilt that engulf them as they ultimately travel home to Rockport. The Civil War had painfully reached the very doors of the family and friends they had left behind. Anger, forgiveness, betrayal, and love are waiting for them. Faces and names echo from the trees and farms, but when John and Marc discover romance in the surprising love of two sisters, A New Sunrise dawns."
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
At present,it is available through my publisher: Tate; On line at: Amazon, Barnesand Noble, Hastings, Borders, Books A Million, Mardel; Barron's store in Longview, Texas. You can check facebook for the book forum page for Home Always Beckons book signings at events and stores. We are currently working towards a website and I will send you an update once it is ready.
Home Always Beckons: A New Sunrise by Lana Lynne (The sequel was just accepted by my publisher and I will send that tirle once I have finished work with my editor)
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I write with the perspective of God's sovereignity and grace in the actuality of the tough roads which life can take.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I started writing on my mother's manual typewriter at the age of 10yrs with a vehement love of Louisa May Alcott and Laura Ingalls Wilder. However, I made another career choice, married, and was raising my family with my writing kept in a drawer or journal until my daughter was a teenager. That's when I decided to start on the journey which led to the publication of my first book.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
A playwright friend of mine told me my style is "the old storyteller" in which my words help you to feel you are really there and can hear the characters.
5. Are you a reader?
I have always loved to read--staying up late in the night to finish a good book!
6. What are you reading right now? Life's Healing Choices by John Baker
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
**As I mentioned before, the sequel to my first book has just been accepted for publication- it is set during beginning of the cattle drive period in 1867. I am also working on my third book which will complete the trilogy. It is set in Washington D.C. in 1874. Both of these new books include characters introduced in the first book, Home Always Beckons, as well as new characters.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Working full time and writing in the "after hours". The good Lord, a supportive husband, family, and friends who encourage me to keep going.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
I'll only include the one for Home Always Beckons now and will send updates for the second as its release date approaches: "Author Lana Lynne has written a historically poignant story filled with characters that will capture the hearts of teens and adults alike. Home Always Beckons emerges in the shadow of a war's end as lives are rebuilt and the treasure of enduring love is found. Marcus Johnson and John Wilkins marched from Rockport, Arkansas, over five years ago to aid in resolving the war that divided the nation. Many friends and family members fought beside them. Some returned home, spent and broken. Others remained where they had fallen, leaving only memories for their families. John and Marc had made a rare choice. They would not make the return journey for a time. They had found solace after the war in work with Texas cattlemen. Now the devastation they discover in their home state further deepens the waters of guilt that engulf them as they ultimately travel home to Rockport. The Civil War had painfully reached the very doors of the family and friends they had left behind. Anger, forgiveness, betrayal, and love are waiting for them. Faces and names echo from the trees and farms, but when John and Marc discover romance in the surprising love of two sisters, A New Sunrise dawns."
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
At present,it is available through my publisher: Tate; On line at: Amazon, Barnesand Noble, Hastings, Borders, Books A Million, Mardel; Barron's store in Longview, Texas. You can check facebook for the book forum page for Home Always Beckons book signings at events and stores. We are currently working towards a website and I will send you an update once it is ready.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Happy 4th of July Week
I love the USA! I was blessed to be born here. I am ashamed to admit that I have not studied the lives of the founding fathers and I have not read the entire Constitution of the United States ........yet. It has been awhile since I have read the Bill of Rights.
My goal is to read both this week. It is high time. I want to challenge my readers to read these documents before July 4, 2011. That gives you a year.
I also want to read about the founding fathers and each of the presidents and their impact on my life today. That is a tall order for me. I think it is something I can do for more understanding of the blessing of being a Citizen of the United States.
Today, I want to intoduce you to authors, Lillian Laird Duff and Linda Duff Niemeir. Their book is on my reading list. I love this era!
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Linda Duff Niemeir and I am co-author of Sharecropping in North Louisiana: A Family's Struggle Through the Great Depression. Mama and I wrote the book together because it is her story and she knows all the details.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
There are a couple things: One, I am the wife of a retired military man whom I folllowed around the world as Uncle Sam assigned him to various Airforce bases, some of which included Europe. Because I love traveling, and because I have always been fascinated to learn how "other people" live, those experiences living in Kansas, Germany, Montana, Italy and England have enriched my life in more ways than I can tell you! Second, readers may like to know that I attended business school after high school which gave me the tools to also have a career as a typist, a "secretary," an "administrative assistant," and various other titles for over two dozen different jobs - all of which I had to seek out as we moved to a different town or continent. That in itself was a challenge, but I managed to work for 40 years and supplement our income enough to finally pay for a home in Arkansas so that I might retire at age 59 and my husband retire at age 62. My goal had been to help my husband (and add to our income) enough that neither of us had to work so long that our health would be too poor to travel in our RV to see more of America and further enrich our lives. I saw so many people get themselves in debt during their "life careers" as they purchased all their "wants" and then they had to work so long to pay off those debts that they were not able to enjoy retirement (or possibly die before retirement) and that was not acceptable to me.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I am not sure yet that I am a writer, and you might ask why? As we traveled the globe with USAF, I was so eager to share those wonderful and sometimes humorous experiences, I wrote short stories and submitted some for publication but each was denied. In each case, I was somewhat surprised and demoralized because I thought the stories were interesting and that other people would enjoy them. Anyway, the other desire I had for many years was to record for posterity the stories my mother had told me as I grew up of her life growing up on cotton farms during the 20s, 30s and 40s. Life was very hard for her and her parents and her sisters as they eeked out a living as sharecroppers moving from one farm to another as my Grandfather sought better land, or better conditions for the family - nearer to a school or church or town. The stories she told made me realize how fortunate I was to have all the blessings I enjoyed daily, and how hard my grandparents, parents and other family members worked to get to the point in their lives where they too had enjoyed many of life's blessings. I realized that many people take for granted the modern conveniences we have and do not appreciate those blessings that God has bestowed on us. Now we were not rich by any means, not rich in what many people would say rich is, money in the bank or fine clothes on our backs or fancy cars in the driveway! But we were (and still are) rich in that we had everything we needed, and sometimes more than we needed, and we had love from our family members and from our God who made each of us in His own image, giving us gifts and a heart and mind with which we can and should serve Him. Mama used those stories she told about her early life and how hard her parents worked to teach me strong work ethics and frugal ways that would help me be more like what God intends for me. Her mother had taught her those work ethics. Sorry, I got off track there, so I need to explain that the other reason I wanted to retire early was that I might still have enough wits about me to write down mama's story so I could share it with family and friends. It did not originally start off as a book to be published, but God had a plan.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My strong points are that I write like I talk, just as I might talk to a friend or neighbor over a cup of coffee. I do not use "big college words" that some people might not understand, mainly because I did not go to college and I wanted people of all ages and backgrounds to be able to read the book and hear the stories as mama told them to me. We wrote the book in the first person so the reader can picture my mama sitting down somewhere comfortable telling me those stories as a child, or picture us working on a chore that might remind her of how that chore was done in the old days.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes, I read the Bible and especially enjoy the chronilogical edition so I can keep the history straight in my head. As a lover of math, and bookeeping (which I did not get to use much after school), my logical mind just wants to know a story, whether fiction or non-fiction, in chronilogical order. It just makes more sense to me. I enjoy a variety of reading materials such as period novels, biographies, magazines about gardening, home decorating and traveling.
6. What are you reading right now? Right now I am reading Winds of the Day by Howard Spring, a period novel set in old England prior to and after WWI. Being in the middle of the book, I do not know where it will end, timewise. I can picture in my mind some of the scenes described and places in England spoken of because I lived there myself four years.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?Tell about it.
No, but I have always wanted to write a book about some of the places where I lived, especially in Europe and tell some of the ways we Americans had to change our daily lives to fit into our environment. My husband and I took a long vacation last summer to Alaska and back to Arkansas, driving over 12,000 miles in 70 days on the road (with two grandchildren) seeing places we had not seen before and meeting lovely people, each one having a story if we took time to get to know them. I thought I might write a book about those people, but as I made notes on our travel blog that I set up for family and friends, I found that I did not have time each day to write down enough information about those places, and interesting persons we came upon. So I decided to just sit back and enjoy the ride and smell the roses. Perhaps some day I will write another book.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
One obstacle I had was just getting started, so the best way I found to overcome that was to set a date or time and made myself do it. I had to be consistent in those times (daily as I wrote with my mother who lived next door at the time) and not let anything distract me if possible. I know that is easier for a retired person as myself who does not have kids still at home to deal with or household chores that keep calling to a busy mom who also works outside the home! The biggest obstacle for me was finding out how to get the book published after hearing so many friends and relatives say "You need to get it published." I had no idea how to do that. I thought maybe I'd have to print it dozens of times, mail it off to publishing houses and wait forever to hear from them that "it did not fit their needs" - well that was what sometimes happened to John Boy Walton (as I watched the reruns on TV, which thoroughly delited me - the show, not his stories being turned down). And when a friend told me to just google publishers, I was absolutely overwhelmed by the thousands listed. So, I bowed my head and prayed and told God that if the book was to be published, He would have to help me find a publisher. When I opened my eyes there was a publisher listed out of alphabetical order (for some strange reason?) on the pages of As - Tate Publishing and Enterprises! So when I clicked on the name and read about the Christian family working together to "publish the word" I knew I would start there and the rest is history. No pun intended. I told God that I would give a tithe to my husband's ministry, Christian Motorcycle Association, in which we have been involved since 1995. God has blessed me and mama in sales and the joy of meeting so many other people who were either sharecroppers or children or grandchildren of sharecroppers has been wonderful and unexpected. Our own family doctor who read the book told us he had been the son of a sharecropping family from Arkansas.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
A family's history lives and dies according to the dedication of its storyteller. Author Lillian Laird Duff is one such historian, and with the encouragement and help of her daughter Linda Duff Niemeir, the stories of this sharecropper's daughter will spark in readers the desire to keep their own family histories alive. Sharecropping in North Louisiana is the true story of the hardship Lillian's family faced during the Great Depressin and World War II. The word pictures Lillian paints are vivid and will bring to life for readers a time when people were forced to get by with what they had. It will also leave readers hungry for a home-cooked meal, as Lillian recalls food preparation on the farm with such richness and delight that you can almost smell the smoked pork and taste the homemade ice cream and butter. Join Linda in listening to her mother's stories once more.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Our book can be purchased through Tate Publishing and Enterprises website, other major websites on line such as Borders, Books A Million, Amazon.com, etc. It is also in audio form which makes fun listening. I have a website at www.niemeir-duff.com as well as a travel blog which I used to document book events beginning in the fall of 2008. Recent blog posts are vacation fun, etc.
My goal is to read both this week. It is high time. I want to challenge my readers to read these documents before July 4, 2011. That gives you a year.
I also want to read about the founding fathers and each of the presidents and their impact on my life today. That is a tall order for me. I think it is something I can do for more understanding of the blessing of being a Citizen of the United States.
Today, I want to intoduce you to authors, Lillian Laird Duff and Linda Duff Niemeir. Their book is on my reading list. I love this era!
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Linda Duff Niemeir and I am co-author of Sharecropping in North Louisiana: A Family's Struggle Through the Great Depression. Mama and I wrote the book together because it is her story and she knows all the details.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
There are a couple things: One, I am the wife of a retired military man whom I folllowed around the world as Uncle Sam assigned him to various Airforce bases, some of which included Europe. Because I love traveling, and because I have always been fascinated to learn how "other people" live, those experiences living in Kansas, Germany, Montana, Italy and England have enriched my life in more ways than I can tell you! Second, readers may like to know that I attended business school after high school which gave me the tools to also have a career as a typist, a "secretary," an "administrative assistant," and various other titles for over two dozen different jobs - all of which I had to seek out as we moved to a different town or continent. That in itself was a challenge, but I managed to work for 40 years and supplement our income enough to finally pay for a home in Arkansas so that I might retire at age 59 and my husband retire at age 62. My goal had been to help my husband (and add to our income) enough that neither of us had to work so long that our health would be too poor to travel in our RV to see more of America and further enrich our lives. I saw so many people get themselves in debt during their "life careers" as they purchased all their "wants" and then they had to work so long to pay off those debts that they were not able to enjoy retirement (or possibly die before retirement) and that was not acceptable to me.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I am not sure yet that I am a writer, and you might ask why? As we traveled the globe with USAF, I was so eager to share those wonderful and sometimes humorous experiences, I wrote short stories and submitted some for publication but each was denied. In each case, I was somewhat surprised and demoralized because I thought the stories were interesting and that other people would enjoy them. Anyway, the other desire I had for many years was to record for posterity the stories my mother had told me as I grew up of her life growing up on cotton farms during the 20s, 30s and 40s. Life was very hard for her and her parents and her sisters as they eeked out a living as sharecroppers moving from one farm to another as my Grandfather sought better land, or better conditions for the family - nearer to a school or church or town. The stories she told made me realize how fortunate I was to have all the blessings I enjoyed daily, and how hard my grandparents, parents and other family members worked to get to the point in their lives where they too had enjoyed many of life's blessings. I realized that many people take for granted the modern conveniences we have and do not appreciate those blessings that God has bestowed on us. Now we were not rich by any means, not rich in what many people would say rich is, money in the bank or fine clothes on our backs or fancy cars in the driveway! But we were (and still are) rich in that we had everything we needed, and sometimes more than we needed, and we had love from our family members and from our God who made each of us in His own image, giving us gifts and a heart and mind with which we can and should serve Him. Mama used those stories she told about her early life and how hard her parents worked to teach me strong work ethics and frugal ways that would help me be more like what God intends for me. Her mother had taught her those work ethics. Sorry, I got off track there, so I need to explain that the other reason I wanted to retire early was that I might still have enough wits about me to write down mama's story so I could share it with family and friends. It did not originally start off as a book to be published, but God had a plan.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My strong points are that I write like I talk, just as I might talk to a friend or neighbor over a cup of coffee. I do not use "big college words" that some people might not understand, mainly because I did not go to college and I wanted people of all ages and backgrounds to be able to read the book and hear the stories as mama told them to me. We wrote the book in the first person so the reader can picture my mama sitting down somewhere comfortable telling me those stories as a child, or picture us working on a chore that might remind her of how that chore was done in the old days.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes, I read the Bible and especially enjoy the chronilogical edition so I can keep the history straight in my head. As a lover of math, and bookeeping (which I did not get to use much after school), my logical mind just wants to know a story, whether fiction or non-fiction, in chronilogical order. It just makes more sense to me. I enjoy a variety of reading materials such as period novels, biographies, magazines about gardening, home decorating and traveling.
6. What are you reading right now? Right now I am reading Winds of the Day by Howard Spring, a period novel set in old England prior to and after WWI. Being in the middle of the book, I do not know where it will end, timewise. I can picture in my mind some of the scenes described and places in England spoken of because I lived there myself four years.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?Tell about it.
No, but I have always wanted to write a book about some of the places where I lived, especially in Europe and tell some of the ways we Americans had to change our daily lives to fit into our environment. My husband and I took a long vacation last summer to Alaska and back to Arkansas, driving over 12,000 miles in 70 days on the road (with two grandchildren) seeing places we had not seen before and meeting lovely people, each one having a story if we took time to get to know them. I thought I might write a book about those people, but as I made notes on our travel blog that I set up for family and friends, I found that I did not have time each day to write down enough information about those places, and interesting persons we came upon. So I decided to just sit back and enjoy the ride and smell the roses. Perhaps some day I will write another book.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
One obstacle I had was just getting started, so the best way I found to overcome that was to set a date or time and made myself do it. I had to be consistent in those times (daily as I wrote with my mother who lived next door at the time) and not let anything distract me if possible. I know that is easier for a retired person as myself who does not have kids still at home to deal with or household chores that keep calling to a busy mom who also works outside the home! The biggest obstacle for me was finding out how to get the book published after hearing so many friends and relatives say "You need to get it published." I had no idea how to do that. I thought maybe I'd have to print it dozens of times, mail it off to publishing houses and wait forever to hear from them that "it did not fit their needs" - well that was what sometimes happened to John Boy Walton (as I watched the reruns on TV, which thoroughly delited me - the show, not his stories being turned down). And when a friend told me to just google publishers, I was absolutely overwhelmed by the thousands listed. So, I bowed my head and prayed and told God that if the book was to be published, He would have to help me find a publisher. When I opened my eyes there was a publisher listed out of alphabetical order (for some strange reason?) on the pages of As - Tate Publishing and Enterprises! So when I clicked on the name and read about the Christian family working together to "publish the word" I knew I would start there and the rest is history. No pun intended. I told God that I would give a tithe to my husband's ministry, Christian Motorcycle Association, in which we have been involved since 1995. God has blessed me and mama in sales and the joy of meeting so many other people who were either sharecroppers or children or grandchildren of sharecroppers has been wonderful and unexpected. Our own family doctor who read the book told us he had been the son of a sharecropping family from Arkansas.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
A family's history lives and dies according to the dedication of its storyteller. Author Lillian Laird Duff is one such historian, and with the encouragement and help of her daughter Linda Duff Niemeir, the stories of this sharecropper's daughter will spark in readers the desire to keep their own family histories alive. Sharecropping in North Louisiana is the true story of the hardship Lillian's family faced during the Great Depressin and World War II. The word pictures Lillian paints are vivid and will bring to life for readers a time when people were forced to get by with what they had. It will also leave readers hungry for a home-cooked meal, as Lillian recalls food preparation on the farm with such richness and delight that you can almost smell the smoked pork and taste the homemade ice cream and butter. Join Linda in listening to her mother's stories once more.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Our book can be purchased through Tate Publishing and Enterprises website, other major websites on line such as Borders, Books A Million, Amazon.com, etc. It is also in audio form which makes fun listening. I have a website at www.niemeir-duff.com as well as a travel blog which I used to document book events beginning in the fall of 2008. Recent blog posts are vacation fun, etc.
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