Rather Be Writing

Nine Days Later

2010-11-09T21:49:00.000-08:00

Dear God,

This past week or so was full of many surprises both good and tough and I did not have the opportunity to write much. However, my head is full of thoughts so I've not quit simply because I'm behind in the game.

NaNoWriMo has felt more like "Nah! No Write No Mo" this week but I've come up with a plan. It's a little tool I used to employ when I was plagued with arthur-write-us due to Lupus; it's called "Dragon Naturally Speaking". Heaven knows I can talk a mile a minute to someone I know very well and since I've been known to talk to myself and I know myself well, I think together we can make this happen.

Oh, God. I'm glad You have a sense of humor and that You seem to let my dreams play Hide and Seek with me. I'm also thankful that You keep life running so fast and full that I have so much about which to write. Maybe You want me not to be so serious and to use this over-tired brain to write comedy. It seems to be all that I can muster these days. So, well, I'm in for the ride.

Maybe I will write a comedy mystery romance how-to sci-fi novel with a twist of historical fiction. Ya, that oughta do it. Then I can enter it in every contest I find online so that I can once again receive the familiar rejection letters I used to see so often. You know how much I need my daily dose of rejection. But You--You love me no matter how many words I write or how novel my ideas sound and You--You already know my heart so that when I am too tired to make any sense, You have heard my prayer and answered before I have even spoken a whisper of it.

Thank You, Father for loving little ol' writer-me and showing me that I am not what I do but who You made me, a person made in Your image. Though I can only see the me that is still in the depths of the molding process, in Your eyes, I am a masterpiece. Thank You.

Now I ask that You allow me to see the world through Your eyes enough to know what Your plan is for my writing, whether it be to write a novel, an article, steady chatter for my companions or some brilliant work of words that touches a million hearts. I give this gift that You have given me back to You for Your use, Your goals, Your purpose and for Your glory.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen.

Day One, Prayer-Confessions of an Aspiring Novelist

2010-11-01T22:07:00.000-07:00

Dear God,The Author and Finisher of ALL things,

Did you know a human could truly write several thousand words without editing and survive it? I didn't. In fact, I assumed that most unplanned writing was not worth reading but pure drivel. Perhaps some of it is. I just never thought I could write that way.

But I can because of Your help. How weird is that? No editing. Well it's suppose to be "no editing" but I just couldn't help myself 100% of the time.You know that, of course. You made me and knew that I would obsess about doing it right, but through Your grace, I did it. I imprisoned the ciritical side of my brain and let the creative thoughts flow. That HAD to be Your handiwork there.

Here's what I found: in writing, I am a very big plotter, planner and editor, so much so that I edit myself right out of writing the story at times. Next, I've also discovered that writing is a great deal like life in that one cannot micro-manage it or it will never go anywhere and one will always be frustrated and uptight. Some planning is helpful but too much of it stifles the creative flow of the story.

So, I did it. I wrote my first day's worth of writing for National Novel Writing Month as a seat-of-the-pants style novel. Wow. It feels good. (unless you count the occasional one eyebrow I raised as I told myself not to correct things yet.) The time will come in December to edit. This month is all about the writing. It's so revitalizing to my soul. I've missed this part of me. I was lost but now I'm found. Only a writer could understand that statement in relationship to this topic. You understand. You are THE ULTIMATE author, only--You never lost Your vision or thoughts. You always had us in mind even before we were formed in our mothers' wombs. You wrote the words of our Life Book. You knew I would want to be a writer. You even knew (when I didn't know) that I could write creatively if I stopped over-planning.

I can't sit and revel in it though because I have several thousand more words to write this month and this type of writing is new to me. So I'm going to need a little help freeing up my schedule and my busy brain if You want me to do this.

I have no idea how it will turn out in the end but at least for now the process has begun and I am finding my creative juices have not totally dried up. I'm not being proud-just happy, happy to find something to enjoy and delight in. As my friend and I discussed tonight, we are made in the image of You, our Creator. You create and are pleased with Your creation. We were designed to create and be pleased with our creation. Because we are human, we have the chance of being displeased with our work periodically but when we take the time to relax and keep creating, eventually we will produce something that makes us smile with satisifaction. That is because You made us in Your image. In those ways, we are like You.

I've heard it said that we are most like You when we play and create--more so then when we work ourselves like dogs. Even You rested on the seventh day to enjoy what You had made.

It's not proud, is it, to be glad God gave you a gift to use and to use it? It's an insult to not use it and not believe that You knew what You were doing when You gave gifts to men. How much more intimate we become with You, our Creator when we realize that You created us each to have such pleasure in creation of our own. How endearing it is. What insight it is into Your character! When we see what we create and are pleased, we know a smidgen of the feeling that You have for us when in Ephesians You say we are Your masterpieces. Amazing.

Well, I've not created any masterpieces yet but I have seen the beauty of Your wisdom in creating each of us with our own creative bent. How wonderful it must feel for You to see one of Your children delighting in the gift prepared for them from the foundations of the earth. It's just like we feel when we see our children enjoying a gift that we labored for them to have. We don't resent them for enjoying it. We smile with glee to see what joy it brings them.

Thank you, God for the gift of writing. May this novel writing journey bring praise and delight to You who created me to love linguistics and made me a scribe of life's events and innovative ideas. If for nothing but the mere pleasure of reading and writing the words, may I always use this gift as a reminder that You love ME. Yes, Me. You loved me enough to create a gift that You knew I would love for all of my days. May it not only be pleasing to me but may it be a blessing to others as well. Thank You, God.

Love,

Your Daughter

NaNoWriMo

2010-11-01T05:47:00.000-07:00

Note: Yes, this is really me. I've been on a long haitus. Life swamped me with responsibility. I'm still swamped but I've decided that the topic of this post is the way I can jump back in to the pool of writing again.

NaNoWriMo. WHAT???? What kind of baby talk is that? Oh, maybe it's another language. That's what I first thought several years ago when I heard about NaNoWriMo. A few of my friends participated. Then the next few years, they participated again.Me. I watched with wonder and felt unworthy for the task. I still do but I'm putting on the hip-waders and jumping in this year because--well--this year is different. It's not because I have any less responsibility weighing on my schedule but because I decided I'm tired of not pursuing my dreams and I'm just gonna go for it, no holds barred.

So... this year is the year. I am going to sign up for NaNoWriMo. Here's some info on it. http://www.nanowrimo.org/eng/whatisnano

Who else is with me?

Inspiration from Good Books

2010-08-07T18:40:00.000-07:00

When I was a teenager, I used to be an avid reader of the Mrs. Polifax mysteries. I read and felt like I was on an adventure with her. This is how I long to write. For so long, I've been writing the facts of life. I naturally and easily write the non-fiction but there is a part of me that longs to write fiction and not just any fiction. I want to combine comedy, mystery, suspense and romance into a novel that people drewl over and stay up all night reading. Is that even possible?

I love, love, love old-fashioned murder mysteries. I adore comedy. I can only write that when I'm overtired and then I don't know I'm funny until the morning after. Then there's the suspense. I've been told I have no poker face. Maybe I can get over this in writing since people will not see my face... and romance, well, certain kinds of it I enjoy. Some of it is so unrealistic. Is that my non-fiction writer voice coming through?

In addition, how will I ever make writing anything more than play if I can't find time to write until my brain is a white screen of static? In years past, my creative brain was on full force and I wrote all the time, everywhere about anything and everything. I even had some writing published. It wasn't bad either. So what shall I do to wake up my sleeping muse? Well, if you can't write it, read it.

I'm back into Mrs. Polifax mysteries again and loving it. I figure that I might as well begin where I first started. Maybe that will inspire me.

What do you do when you just seem stuck? I hear people say that they never have a problem with this because they are true writers and they always write. I always want to write and I seem to write in spurts. Sometimes it's all or nothing, Baby.

For now, I will inspire myself by reading some good books. I shall put up the "DO NOT DISTURB" sign. Mrs. Polifax and I shall have tea.

Back in the Saddle

2010-06-11T08:27:00.000-07:00

I'm so thankful for the time to write once again. A part of me was missing without being able to "write my heart" as much. I am once again "back in the saddle".

Last weekend, I watched my boys as they enjoyed therapeutic equestrian training. It was quite the experience. So much of their involvement focuses on balance, posture, learning to communicate with the horse and listening to the trainer. It struck me as similar to life. Whatever we learn to do takes focus, concentration and communication as well as learning the rules and philosphies around the particular interest. Mistakes can be dangerous or even fatal.

Writing is also like that. It takes research, time honing the skill, a general interest in what you write, advice from the experts and listening to your Trainer. You have to balance your unbridled dreams with the "bit" of editing and consideration of who is sitting in your audience. Your posture on topics and what you present publically determines the direction that your writing takes in the market. You have to run a few times around the ring to learn what works and what doesn't. Maybe you make a mutitude of laps before you see a rut behind you. You mount carefully and ride confidently all the while realizing that your horse is bigger than you and must be tempered. You must lead your horse rather than letting it lead you but you'd be a fool not to notice what your horse is doing and "saying". Are you tracking with me here?

Writing is complicated. It flows naturally but must be harnessed as well. If you don't pay attention on the trail, you are likely to be bucked accidentally at bumps. After a great deal of riding, you climb off and need to rest for a while. You might be a little sore from the effort. It can be a while before you are able to climb back on again.

Well, I'm there. I'm finally back in the saddle. This week, I began working again on my Christian RAD Parenting book. I also had a children's book idea that "asked" to be written right away. I have several works in progress: one big one and many little projects (some finished and some still developing). I don't know if this is unusual or not but that is how I tend to work best with many irons in the fire (I had to use that analogy since we are talking horse sense). I needed to be off the ride for a while to straighten up some things in the ring and on the trail of life but now I am ready to ride. Fences needed to be mended; holes needed filling.

So where will this ride take me? I feel like I have trail maps now and a good compass. God will be my guide too. Please pray for me if you are so inclined. And if you are a writer, saddle up, partner! You're along for a great, scenic ride, Lord-willing.

Pardon Me, My Epidermis is Showing

2010-06-04T20:46:00.000-07:00

It's been ages since I posted here. I've been too busy with other writing and real life duties as a: therapeutic parent, counselor-in-training, band member, teacher, homeschool mom and many other responsibilities. I'm doing well now, though I was overwhelmed for a few months. I needed to drop a few things and balance the plate a little better so I had some time to write and to blog. I recently began working on a book I had on hold for a while---which leads me to this story:

When I was an awkward eleven and half year old, a smart-alek boy in my school walked up to me and whispered through grinning teeth, "Your epidermis is showing." I looked down at the hem of my skirt and around at my body for a few minutes until I realized he was attempting to provoke me. I rolled my eyes and walked away, all the while shaking my head in disgust. How dare he put me on the spot like that? Later I chuckled. It was kind of cute.I just couldn't believe I fell for it at first. How humiliating!

I've had many embarassing moments in my life: like the time in my teen years when I attended a youth conference with 7,000 other teenagers and my worn half-slip fell to my ankles right in front of a clump of sharp-looking 16ish year olds. With my puritanical type upbringing, humiliation became a familiar friend again. I walked right out of the slip and never looked back for fear that the shock on my face would provoke even more of a reaction from the boys. I ran up the steps to what I thought was the balcony and right straight into the mens' bathroom. My only option was to back out and run down the steps, right into the pack of boys I just left. Of course, that was not the last time that I felt the blood rising and my face flush as I or someone near me did something very, very embarassing. (Oh, trust me. All of my sons have found pleasure in finding ways to make a public scene at some point in time.)

Not too many years back, I sang on a worship team where suddenly the worship leader changed songs DURING the service. Good thing the projector crew was on top of it. The words were projected on the front and back walls for the worship team and congregation to both be able to view. I had forgotten my glasses and did not know the song at all. Since I grew up on stage, I figured I could fudge it well enough. I was right. I really fudged it, not as in faking it-pull-the-wool-over-their eyes-that-I-know-the-song kind of fudge but bigtime-make-a-fool-of-myself fudge.

The fatal line was "God is bigger than the biggest________________".

The blank was suppose to be filled by "canyon" but with my heavy but rare for me, New England accent bursting from the deepest parts of my inner nervous consciousness, I sang, "crayon" squarely into the microphone for three hundred people to hear. Can you say, "Awkward"?

So what is the point of this blabber about bloops and blunders? As I said, I've picked up writing again on a book I had on hold for a while. Honestly, I'm not the provokational type; I'm a peacemaker but this message includes some not-so-easy chunks to swallow.

"God, do you really mean for me to write this? This is not going to put me on the well-loved resources list." I prayed a few months back.

Don't get me wrong; it will not be condemning, but merely off the beaten path compared to what is out there. I sometimes wish it was someone else called to write it but the inspiration has not dissipated regardless of the time spent avoiding it. Write I must...but...but my epidermis is showing.

Do you ever write things that you feel in your heart of hearts that you are suppose to write but you know that the product may not contain the most desired message? How do you deal with the inner urgings to write things from your heart that may not be popular? Or how do you deal with writing the truths from the hidden places of your soul that you feel others may not be willing to say either? I've had this feeling when I shared my testimony a few times and when I've written a poem about something personal. Often, the writing when read, has stirred up someone's honest realization of things in his or her own heart that they might not have realized or it gives hope to someone going through a similar experience.

I pray that whatever I write, God will use it to touch hearts, change lives and inspire hope. If He wants me to also lovingly chide, well then, I must say "yes" to the call, though I dread it, in part. Can anyone relate? Or is all your writing pure pleasure to share with others?

Thank you for following my blog about writing. I hope to post more often on this page. If anyone is still a reader, thanks for being so patient. Please feel free to jump in the conversation and tell me about your writing journey. I'd love to hear from you.

BeckyJoie

DEADlines

2010-03-29T18:25:00.000-07:00

Do words sometimes jump out at you while you write? Today, while competing with several deadlines, I developed an intense curiosity about the word, "deadline". From where did it orginate? What on earth does it mean?

Every humorous thought came to mind. Maybe it is because you feel like you're going to die before you meet your deadline OR maybe you write for such a long period of time that everything begins to look like dead lines. Of course, these were not the correct explanations but it was fun imagining it. Eventually, though, my inquisitive side won out and I popped the question into the search engine.

Here is what I discovered: According to Merriam Webster's Dictionary and commonly known legend, the word, "deadline", has it's roots in the American Civil War when there were no literal prisons in the field. Captives were held at gunpoint and told to line up and stay behind two temporary lines. If they crossed the first line, they were ordered back behind the line. If they ventured over the second line, they were SHOT. Yes, SHOT. Thank God we don't get shot by editors if we are tight on the deadline but it's really a good idea to get your writing done on time anyway or your chances of keeping a writing job are SHOT!

To quote Paul Harvey, "Now you know the rest of the story."

With that in mind, let me get back to my deadlines. I'll be back soon with April's Cheerleader of the Month.

March 2010, Cheerleaders-Top 100 Creative Writing Blogs

2010-03-01T16:47:00.000-08:00

Every month, I aim to post a "cheerleader" to encourage Christian Writers in their publishing journeys.

Today, I found a secular website that lists the "Top 100 Creative Writing Blogs". I visited a few of the links already and thought it a good site to pass on to my readers.

I don't often run out of things to write about ; I run out of free time to write about them or information on where to submit them after I write them. Nevertheless, all people get writer's block at times and a website so full of ideas from other writers might help to cure that.

On the TOP 100 Creative Writing Blogs, you will find writing challenges, contests, information on getting published and many miscellaneous writing pointers. It's great for beginning and intermediate writers, especially. There's a cute blog on apostrophe abuse. (Who'd a' thunk it?)

Some of my readers self-publish, write e-books or write for their churches. I've had a few things published in the non-fiction category (articles, poetry, songs, etc.) but one of my goals as a writer is to be published in many genres since I like to write about many things. I am sure that non-fiction writing is my niche but diversification is a good thing too and it never hurts to try. One never knows where he or she will strike gold.

Meanwhile, I intend to continue to write and learn. A few months from now, my whacked out schedule will slow down to a reasonable pace and I will have more time to blog and write. I look forward to that day. This has been a very full season of my life. My season of rest is en route. When it arrives, I will write to my heart's content.

Meanwhile, I plan to keep working my craft (writing) and learning new skills. I read many, many blogs. Some of them are about writing but many are about life in general. One must live life to write about it.

Despite that, it's my aim to read more blogs about writing. The above-mentioned website is a wonderful resource. Maybe you have writing blogs that inspire you that are not mentioned on the above mentioned site or in my sidebar links. Check them out. I have some excellent writing websites and blog links. Here's a link to one of my absolute all-time favorite websites/blogs.

What writing websites or blogs do you read on a frequent basis? What do you find helpful about them? What tips would you, as a writer, give my readers about visiting writing blogs? How important do you think it is to writers?

Writing Opportunity for Leading Homeschool Magazine

2010-02-27T18:50:00.000-08:00

Last year, I became an independent contractor to write reviews for +-75 vendors who contract with The Old Schoolhouse Magazine to gain exposure for their products. Most of the items are Homeschool Curriculae but there have also been products for family fun and household use. One item we received was a sampler basket of natural soaps and laundry detergent fragranced with essential oils and natural scents. Oh, it smelled so scrumptious, I would have eaten some if it hadn't been soap. Other fun things we received were a: Hank, the Cowdog board game along with some CD's and books, Sarah Books a historical novella series based on the time period when the Underground Railroad began to rise as a help to slaves, music instruction, educational games for the computer, curriculae for every school subject including special education materials, college preparation guides and a Bible Study Course for kids using stick figures to make the stories come alive. I still have several months left to receive these products for free as a member of the TOS Homeschool Review Crew. You can read my reviews here at: Leaders In Learning blog. It has been QUITE an experience and I have met MANY wonderful writers and publishers in this process.

The reason I tell you all of this is not to boast on my great treasures nor to brag up my own talent as a writer. I am not the only person who has this priviledge. In fact, there are MANY moms and a few dads working from their homeschool program to write excellent reviews for the TOS magazine and what's more? The time is here again for tryouts and you too can try out for a position on the crew. Click here for details. Your compensation is not in monetary return but you will receive awesome products for your family to try and help bringing traffic to your blog where the reviews you write are hosted. I have received enough curriculum to use for several years, free of charge. As well, I have had my exposure to homeschool materials expanded by leaps and bounds. I have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity this year and so have three of my friends across the states. I know there are people outside the state who participate as well. To read their reviews,Click Here. While you are there, look for a ship that says, "Blog Cruise" where crew members answer common questions asked about homeschooling in general. If you ever wanted to homeschool or are simply curious what all the hubbub is about regarding homeschooling, then you won't want to miss all the blog links that will give you a widespread exposure to why many choose to teach their children at home instead of a public or private school. I have one in public school and another at home but homeschooling is no longer a fringe movement. Numbers are rising across the world, thanks to early pioneers who paved a path to show the world how much sense it really makes.

So, what do you think? Are any of you good technical writers or wonderful conversational writers? The reviewers are ALL styles from a simple straightforward scientific sounding report to elaborate or funny reviews. If you are a homeschooler who likes to write, and would benefit from an opportunity to receive great things for your family, then this opportunity might be for you.

If you tryout, please let me know and tell the editors I sent you, too!

I try to publish helpful articles on this site. I've been a little busy lately and not posted devotionals or market opportunities so I thought I would let you know about this one. It could be really a good fit for some of my readers. Check it out!

Christian Writers, Contend For the Faith!

2010-01-30T20:56:00.000-08:00

"Beloved, ... it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that you should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered to the saints." JUDE 3

Whatever genre in which the Christian writers flourish, we have a high calling to exhort our Christian readers to contend for the faith and to bring in those yet to be found.

It's so much easier to be a generic Christian. By that, I mean, to blend in with the world and not share our faith. However, I believe that we, as all believers, have a call to share the Good News with a lost and spiritually dying world, not to cram words down anyone's throats but to shine the light through our witness so that people will ask and we will be ready to answer.

Don't get me wrong; I'm not saying it's wrong for a Christian writer to flourish in the secular market. When God gives you a seed to plant, He will bring the harvest in the ground where it should be planted. Let's not forget though, when the baskets are full of monetary proceeds from the sold harvest (or when they are empty), there is a spiritual harvest ready and waiting for us to come and pick. We are not called to be sheep in wolves clothing but to fit nicely in our sheepskin and to wear it with honor and humility.

I exhort you and me both to contend for the faith as the early disciples did. There may be a time when we won't have this freedom that we now hold dear- our freedom of speech. It is happening all around us. I received an email recently about an author who is being imprisoned for using his free speech right here in America. These instances are few and random in our country but not so elsewhere.

It doesn't costs us much in comparison to what our brothers and sisters in Asia and third world countries suffer when they preach the Gospel. Many of them give their lives; all we get receive is a little flack here and there from people.

Jesus said, "Go into all the world and preach the Gospel, (make disciples of all nations) baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the age. Amen." Matthew 28:19-20

Christian Writer, remember who you are. Don't forget your call. Remember you have fellow sheep spread across this continent and further. Use your freedom as a Christian writer to contend for the faith and win souls whenever God gives the opportunity.

We Are Works In Progress

2010-01-27T22:00:00.000-08:00

Philippians 1:6 

Being confident of this very thing, that He who hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.

I've been discouraged periodically about all of the dreams and goals that have yet to be realized as a writer. Life gets in the way. I see my imperfections and struggle with self-worth. Missing the mark can make a goal-oriented person feel like a failure.

In reflection, I have discovered that sometimes I set the mark too high. Other times, I don't work hard enough at the goals but allow distractions to deter me. I'm the stereotypical moody writer, who thinks she can publish a library one day and another day, fills the trash can with crumpled paper. I don't want to feel like I'm not accomplishing my goals.

I asked the Lord for a Word on which to stand. He gave me the above passage. It was an immense comfort. Here's why:

I am not perfect. I fail. Failure reveals my humanity and somehow, in that state, I see the steadfastness of God. Jesus, the Perfect One, is performing a good work in me--to sanctify, to cleanse, to save, to make whole and to enable for service. He began that work in me and He will not quit working until I am perfect in Him. When He returns to take me to Heaven and gives me a heavenly body which will no longer struggle with weakness and imperfection, then all my earthly expectations will fade and I will know what was His perfect will for my life and hopefully, hear Him say, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of thy Lord." All the rest won't matter any more. In order to hear that I need to finish what He called me to.

He finishes EVERYTHING He starts and that good work in us that only He does is a work in progress with many stops and starts. I think it's because we are sometimes like the characters in our books or stories that try to make suggestions to the Author. Our suggestions are one dimensional just as our characters can't know what each other are up to but must discover through the plot where they all fit in the story. It is the Author that keeps everything straight and makes the story turn out right. The characters think they would die in the process worrying about their struggles if the Author didn't have it under control. How amazing is that!

With that in mind, I look at my plans. I'm only one character in the story God is writing of my life. I can't see ahead or how God is going to use every detail of the story to accomplish the plot. I think I'm just going to die of heartache or exhaustion at times when my dreams aren't working out as I'd desire. Hearing Philippians 1:6 reminded me once again to trust the Author. He is at work on my life. I am a work in progress.So are you.

2010-01-27T08:02:00.001-08:00

When The Path Branches Off Like a Pile of Pretzels Intertwined...

2010-01-19T19:27:00.000-08:00

Life is incredibly full for me right now. I realize I have a tendency to be addicted to that "busy" and not to clear my path enough to where I can see a straight line. Instead, rather, the moment I empty it, another idea comes cropping up in front of me. There is always something begging for my attention. If I let it, life could dictate my path for me and I could be caught in a labrynth of activity and never follow the path to the hopeful end and the future that God has mapped out for me. (Jeremiah 29:11)

This year will be different. I aim to be more intentional. I'm seeking the Lord in all my ways and looking for His guidance daily in my home, ministry and career paths and for the future. I might have to stop cycling on the maze from time to time--to at least stop in the midst of it and ask for direction more than just in the beginning.

The truth is that we only have so much control over our own lives. Some of us micro-managing multi-taskers think we can conquer the world in a day but really, when it all spins in front of us, our lives could become like the cat's cradle gone askew if we don't let the Master Designer take control of it.

I love writing. I love all the pursuits life holds.I love teaching...

and visiting.... and encouraging.... and counseling and most of the time, parenting.

Somehow I need to strike a balance. Not just what I think is the right balance but what He determines is my position and station in the world.

I've been called to all these things but where the difficulty lies is in finding where they all fit together.

I've decided to stop trying to figure it all out myself. It's time to ask, seek and knock. Every day. Every hour. Every moment. I'm on a new journey to pray without ceasing. About everything. Everyone. Every day.

When I wander, as I am prone to, then I will tune in again and say,

"Speak Lord, for your servant is listening" and I will hear His voice saying,

"This is the way; walk you in it."

Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow. Psalm 25:4.

2010 Cheerleader #2 for Your Christian Business

2010-01-02T12:46:00.000-08:00

In the last post, I mentioned Faithwriters as the first cheerleader for Christian writers. Each month, I will highlight one or two more at Rather Be Writing.

Although none of the "cheerleaders" posted on this blog come dressed in pleated skirts and letter sweaters nor do they do cartwheels and wave pom-pom's in the air, they stand to provide a periodic pep-rally to encourage us to work at and market our businesses and/ or writing endeavors.

Today's pick was an "accidental" find. One of my New Year's resolutions is to study the great prayers of the Bible this year. As soon as I decided that in early December, I figured "Why wait?" I began right away. Searching the web, I found several studies to use as a guideline. Dr. Ralph Wilson's study was one of them. I've only just begun to receive his daily email studies but so far so excellent--I cannot vouch for the whole thing as far as expositional consistency and doctrinal accuracy but from what I've seen this far, I've been impressed.

As with any Bible study in which I partake, I wanted to know from which denominational viewpoint it would come. I decided to look up the author and read up. Although I didn't find any specific denominational leanings, I did note that he is a notable Christian businessman and international expert on Internet marketing. He has been identified on one site as Dr. EBiz. He seems to be an example of a very well-rounded person as he not only has a business and a ministry, he also enjoys playing the guitar and auto harp and is a Civil War history buff and a woodworker. Wow. I thought my plate was loaded!

If curiosity has the best of you, you can read about Dr. Wilson here: http://www.wilsonweb.com/speaker/bio.htm
Or you can check out his Bible study here (remember to use discernment and compare everything by the WORD in context): http://www.joyfulheart.com/

I signed up for his marketing newsletter as well as the prayer journey newsletter. Newsletter #1 comes with SIX free e-books for your business! If you know more about him than I do, please share!

I'll try to keep you posted about the outcome and my opinions of his ideas. Although what works for one might be different than for another, I figure it can't hurt to read what brought success to a Christian businessman.

"Ponder the path of your feet and let all your ways be established." Proverbs 4:26.

New Year, New Motivation

2010-01-01T17:46:00.000-08:00

First of all, thank you to any returning readers who have faithfully stuck by me on my silent hiatus from this blog. Please accept my apologies and a resolution to write more on this blog. I can't promise a post everyday but at least once a week should be do-able. (Between my other writing responsibilities, therapeutic parenting, volunteer work with non-profits, and furthering my education, the plate gets pretty full! I'm not the only one who juggles life like this. Many more famous authors have done this and more.)

It's been QUITE a while since I posted anything on this blog since those real life events seemed to have upstaged the business end of my writing for a while. As life settles down and the new year unfolds, I have new motivation and more specific goals to get back on track. I found some inspiration today regarding writing. I suppose that a break was essential to bring me back to the love of it. I've always loved it but it seemed that my overloaded brain couldn't focus for a while. I guess that all writers and artists go through that on occasion. To commically misquote the Queen, "We are not immune."

Today, I watched a re-enacted biography of the life of Louisa May Alcott, one of my favorite authors. I relate so much to the characters in Little Women, her most well-known novel. My sisters and I used to write our own newspaper and act our plays in the living room just like her characters. That was before we read the book or watched the movie. I was most like Jo who went off on her own to write and was always trying to match mate people in my mind. I loved reading people. I just wasn't very good at keeping my nervousness from making me act silly when trying to connect with them. Of course, I didn't quite understand why people weren't enthused about me reading dictionaries in my spare time and sharing the words I discovered nor why they thought me a strange bird to borrow library records--yes, records--that featured opera like the HMS Pinnafore, foreign language lessons or radio theatre comedy from my dad's and grandparent's generations. I was an old soul for my age. (This is the inside scoop-Dr. Wordwielder and I have much in common).

I digress here. Sorry. The show about author L.M. Alcott brought out some interesting similarities between her and I and gave me a few ideas for writing that I would not have otherwise discovered. It also gave me encouragement that it is possible to do well in a writing career even with many life interruptions--if one only follows the dreams in his or her heart to write. This brings to my mind a quote I've heard my friend, JoJo, say, "I'm writing a book. I've got the page numbers all written," or something like that.

Sometimes, we have dreams and even begin on our goals but something keeps us with blank pages. It's time either to throw it out and start fresh or get to work! I'm going to do a little of both with my works in progress.

I sent a few children's stories out the other day and intend to keep doing that and sending off articles and short stories while determining which of my larger works in progress to finish first. I plan to complete at least one of them by June this year. Giving myself a deadline will help tremendously. I'm good with deadlines when it comes to writing, not so good with open-ended-unless I have a strong, clear vision about something that must be shared with the world.

That being said, I hopped on over to Faithwriters to see what new designs they came up with for their webpage. I found it much easier to navigate and read a tutorial on making the most of my membership. I've participated in some of the challenges this past year and knew that it is possible to have other articles posted on the site but didn't use the site to it's fullest potential. I did receive offers from a publisher but hope to gain more exposure for my writing by contributing more to the various aspects of what they offer. There is a critique circle, discussion boards, writing lessons and all kinds of opportunities. They're still the same offerings but they seem more user-friendly on the new page. To look at them or browse the articles there, (You might see a couple of mine in the challenge entries), visit this link. http://www.faithwriters.com/index.php

I've posted the previous link before as a place where I receive encouragement to write. My resolution is to find more cheerleaders like this and to interact more with them, especially since the in person groups locally didn't seem to work out for my schedule.

What or who inspires you as a writer? What book, blogger, author, forum, critique circle or other resource helps you? Maybe we can share resources and cheer each other on to doing better in the business end of our writing. Feel free to leave your comments. I'd love to hear from you.

The Big Blue Screen of Death

2009-11-29T18:52:00.000-08:00

That's right. My laptop died. The ancient computer I was using after that crashed too and we had to do recovery work on it. This has made being online for long difficult. The laptop, however, (my baby) has bit the dust. We are searching for the correct recovery disk but the outlook is not promising. It appears I will have to make weekly trips to use the library computer if this old PC doesn't keep up with me. We shall see--and some of my books will have to be re-written. Of course, I save in several formats often but this time, I had not gotten that far. I had tons of research on various subjects stored in my laptop. I should have learned from the crash I had two years ago where I lost most of a book. Well, there's nothing like a fresh start. God-incidentally, I watched a great Netflix movie this weekend called, "The Ultimate Gift". The concept related to losing the familiar to gain better, yet unfamiliar things. The timing of this was incredible. So I'm all ears to this.

Meanwhile, I'm rekindling some old loves and resting from some of my old obsessions. I've discovered a few things during this process. I will soon share them but for now, I simply write to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving (belated) and a blessed first week in December.

Pray for me to be able to fix or replace my laptop soon. I need it for several projects and writing commitments. For now, I will work on Plan B. Stay tuned for an update in a week or sooner. Thanks. See ya soon.

Rather Be Writing Reviews JoJo Tabares' "Language of Leadership" Course

2009-11-13T18:31:00.001-08:00

As you may well know, I am a friend and an avid fan of JoJo Tabares and her Blog Talk Radio Shows. In fact, I’ve been known to take my laptop with me to some strange places just to make sure I could hear her show or read articles from her Art of Eloquence blog and website.

After a mutual friend introduced us, I joined a yahoo group that was hers at the time-- Homeschooling With Humor. During this time, I participated in some contests. This gave me the opportunity to view samples of her books such as: Say What You Mean for Kids, FIMMology101-The Study of the Humorous Sins of Our Mouth and samples from her online articles. Later, after I became a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew, I read another one of her ebooks, Play What You Mean, the Playbook as recommended by The Old Schoolhouse Magazine (a publication with which I contract to write product reviews on my Leaders in Learning Blog). In addition, I read articles by her that were published in TOS magazine.

Over time, I came to believe that JoJo is the #1 Communication Guru for business, Christian apologetics, homeschooling, education, public speaking, career advancement and many more avenues of daily communication. Her products are highly educational and a great bargain. She is very generous. In fact, she has given away many things during the years of her ministry. Additionally, her materials are very affordable. Right now, she has a contest going on that offers readers a chance to win a bundle of products worth $350, including a number of her own courses.

I recently received an opportunity to review her newest online AOE University course called, Say What You Mean, The Language of Leadership. This is a 51 page ebook (that I printed) with 18 lessons on the topic of Leadership. Each lesson begins with a Bible verse and ends with a homework assignment and a link to one of JoJo’s online articles.

Topics covered are: the definition of leadership--what it is and is not, the importance of communication skills for leaders, how to present yourself for success, a leader’s body language, using leadership words, how to deal with a confidence deficiency, direct sales leadership, accuracy, influencing others, leading your children, “How to Unbossy Yourself” and so much more!

The course contains resources for leaders in business but also many tips for youth leaders, church workers, homeschool leaders and aspiring leaders of all kinds. You will find other leadership gurus out there but JoJo’s books come from the communication aspect, which is very important if you understand its relevance to success in any area of life.

I appreciate the factor that her courses reference moral truths. Every page contains leadership skills that are necessary detailing how a lack of them can cause the downfall of both the leader and his or her followers. Relatable Bible characters or instruction from the Bible are used to demonstrate this, as well as historical figures and fictional characters.

Interwoven with that are wise advice and helpful hints for communication in leadership. I especially recommend the clickable links to her Communication Assessment Quiz and What’s Your Communication Personality? My favorite chapters in the ebook are “Chapter 7, Them’s Powerful Leadership Words” and “Chapter 11, How to Communicate Confidently Even When You’re Not.”

In addition, there is an accompanying audio course that links to the Art of Eloquence Online University. When you take the online course, you will receive a secret link to the weekly audio podcast that complements the ebook lessons. You don’t have to have the ebook to take the online course but they do work nicely together. New broadcasts open every Monday with a use-on-demand availability. This means you can take this course during the day or when your children are sleeping-whatever fits your schedule.

JoJo’s friendly and entertaining approach is unlike any other online course I’ve ever taken !

Using humor and an authoritative but approachable style, she shares tips and expounds on leadership.

Both the online and written course are excellent resources for learning communication skills needed in leadership. I recommend them to people who think they don’t have leadership skills or are afraid to use the skills they already possess and I feel these courses could be even more important for people who think they have mastered the topic but feel like they getting nowhere with their business or other endeavor.

After taking this course, you will have learned many tricks to boost your confidence and expertise in leadership. You will have learned to how to be a leader that people want to follow.

The ebook costs $24.95 for individuals and families. Even better, sign up for the online course and receive both the ebook and the audio classes to take better advantage of learning about Leadership. There is NO shipping and handling charge since your course is delivered via the web and email.

You may also join the online university to have unlimited access to this and other online courses. What a bargain to join her university at $29.95! Then you pay one flat fee per class title and you can attend for as long as you desire to take classes. The cost covers everyone in your household and more classes are being added ALL the time.

Contrary to popular opinion, communication is not only a skill used to give a speech. It is vital to every type of daily interaction whether it be in business or your daily life. Writers, this is also important to you. Writing is not only about writing. It's about communication and even after you have written your famous manuscript, you will continue to need communication skills to promote your work. Great leaders are great communicators...So learn how to communicate better through this and any of JoJo's courses.

To view samples and read all her awesome articles, visit this link:
http://artofeloquence.com/index.php

Don't forget to buy a copy of Language of Leadership for your teen, family member, friend or anyone else who wants to learn leadership skills.

While you’re there, feel free to load your cart with some great items and then read how you can enter to win a prize bundle worth $350.00. You only have until the end of the year to enter, so hurry on over to Art of Eloquence now!

This is not a TOS review, but the eproducts of Art of Eloquence are endorsed by The Old Schoolhouse Magazine and many of JoJo's customers and in my book, AOE receives a Two Thumbs up rating.

To learn more about what AOE offers, visit: http://www.artofeloquence.com/

To hear her weekly podcasts, click on the TalkShoe link in the sidebar of my blogs. Thank you for reading my review of JoJo's Language of Leadership Course.

Writer's Wishlist

2009-11-11T17:36:00.000-08:00

When I was a child, my parents asked all the children in our family to make Christmas lists.

We passed around our papers so that everyone knew what to get or make for each other. We tried not to ask for outlandish things since we knew that with involvement in the family ministry, finances were not plentious (Back then, ministry meant sacrifice not the glamour of Armani and diamonds, like some in modern ministry seem to think).

Although the wishlist idea sounds self-centered, our family already had a practice of giving to the community in abundance even when we had little ourselves.

Making a wishlist was a valuable lesson in assessing wants vs. needs and in honoring the needs and wishes of others.

The practice has stuck with me. Every year, I follow the family tradition and ask the people in my present day family to make their own wishlists. It sure makes shopping a little easier for me, too!

It wasn't difficult for me to get into wish-listing. I'm a list-maker by nature anyway. I love analyzing and keeping track of things.

New Years is another time to employ this principle. I make an annual list of resolutions to change old behaviors and to start new ones.

Periodic introspection and needs-analysis are beneficial because they keep us honest with ourselves.

As I approach the end of the year, I find myself going to that listmaking mode and crossing of the goals I've completed for the year as well as setting new goals as a writer. This includes a wishlist of tools that I think I need to continue as a writer. I never know how I'm going to accomplish or acquire them but I ask God in faith and trust that He will provide exactly what I need. Sometimes He gives me the desires of my heart in an ownership capacity and other times He provides the opportunity to borrow or share. It's a great lesson in faith and spiritual warfare, too. (By the way, God tells us we have not because we ask not or we ask amiss.

Prayer is a fantastic way to check the priorities of your wish list items and to see God work miracles on behalf of your obvious and seemingly hopeless lack.)

No warrior goes to war without preparing his armor and weapons of warfare. Neither does a writer jump out there without preparation and education. He or she also needs proper instruments with which to write and be published. He needs a battle plan and a map telling him where to submit and with what directions.

What tools do you need as a writer to make it on the Christian and /or secular markets? Here are some things I recommend putting on your wishlist (most are on mine; several I already have access to):

Sally Stuart's Christian Writers Market Guide http://www.stuartmarket.com/

Writer's Digest Magazine http://www.writersdigest.com/GeneralMenu/

Writer's Market Guide for: poets, novelists, short story writers, songwriters, children's writers and illustrators, photographers, screen and playwrights, agents and everything you could ever want to learn as a writer or artist. http://www.writersdigestshop.com/category/market-books

Novel Writing for Dummies.http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-0470059109.html

The Writer Magazine http://www.writermag.com/wrt/

Magazines, newspapers and books in genres which you want to become published.

What is on your writer's wishlist? Did I miss anything?

Write Sa Lot

2009-11-09T16:37:00.000-08:00

This is a goofball post but I had to write about it. You see, as my son says about me, "She Writes Alot". Why? Because I write about anything and everything--even stuff that no one else would care about. Sometimes, I share it with my blog readers. Sometimes I don't.

What do writers write about anyway? The answer is "Write what you know."

If my family and I embark on a great adventure, the story ends up racing across my computer screen. If I'm present when the sun ducks behind a cotton candy swirl, I'm inspired and a poem ensues. When the sun peeks out again and glistens a kaleidoscope of colors in prisms on the wall or on the nearby lake, somehow it makes it's way also into a rainbow of words on my page.

Then there are the less glamorous subjects--like the daily grind of life. I write it down. I will probably also write about a new venture in becoming a health and wellness consultant. If I do, it will be on my Leaders In Learning blog and you may hear all kinds of useful facts that you never thought about -lucky you (tongue in cheek).

For me writing is a catharsis but for you, it's a pretty raw look at my thinking, too, so only the brave may venture onto my blogs. I'm not good at poker faces in person or in writing. It all comes out.

There are different reasons for writing. We all have them. We write for therapy or to express a valuable opinion. We write to persuade or entertain. We write to build a career or to build a following of readers with which to fellowship. We write just to write because it's fun and energizing. We write about everything.

Writers write because they love to. A few make money doing so. Some day, I hope to make the big bucks with this favorite occupation of mine but for now, I will make money as the opportunities arise and I will simply enjoy writing and share a laugh or two when I find one. Like this government page that told what average and lowest paid writers earn yearly. I laughed my head off at it. Let me know what you think. See also if you find any redunancy in this article. It's something I'm really good at. Maybe the government will pay me to write something like this for their site. http://www.bls.gov/k12/reading01.htm

At least I have something to look forward to. Until then, happy tales to you until we write again.

THROUGH IT ALL

2009-11-02T13:44:00.000-08:00

More discouraging news came to me this month. One of the writer's groups I belong to is dissolving and another one is now meeting at a time that is more difficult for me to attend. How will I write without the encouragement and accountability of a group? With homeschooling one child and waiting at the bus stop morning and afternoon for the other, I find myself scrambling to figure out how to find time to write what is in my heart to write. Actually, if I could find the money to write, I would be relieved. I am in the job hunting process right now. I'm already busy. If I find a job, how will I find time to write? But then...

I ran into a lady who works for a local newspaper. We met at a Harvest Festival the other day and she encouraged me to take a leap of faith and look for another at-home writing job. The jobs I have done lately in the writing field have been re-reimbursed in products rather than money or have been done on a volunteer basis to help a cause. I don't mind giving of myself to others. This has been wonderful BUT I need to make money, too. It would be great if I could write and make money doing it! Writing is what I love to do and what I feel that I've been gifted to do. I know it takes time to make money. I will not give up but I can't hold out for the money I will make with writing later. So...off I go. I'm going to take a chance.

Please pray for me that I will find just the right opportunity and that I will not give up hope through it all. I know many writers are struggling right now financially. So are a vast majority of people in other careers. I pray that we may not lose faith or hope through it all.

This reminds me of a song. Here it is. It's an oldie but goodie. It's called "Through It All." I hope it blesses you too.

Here's another great new one with a similar message.

No matter what, if you feel that writing is your calling or vocation, don't give up. Let's encourage each other along the way. Through it all, we can learn to trust God to bring us into our promised land.

Saturday Prayer

2009-10-31T19:48:00.000-07:00

(This is not the best poem I ever wrote but it is a prayer from my heart. I hope you enjoy it and make it your prayer too.)

Thank You for dying on the cross for my sin.
Thank You for bringing new life deep within.
I long so to please You in all that I do.
So come, Lord, abide in me and I in You.
Everyday, I will open my heart and my ears
To listen to Your Word. Speak softly but clear.
I'll worship, walk close with You, stay by Your side.
Lord, please come and dwell in me. Come be my Guide.

Your daughter

Characters from The Real World

2009-10-24T17:43:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I have experienced this but today, everyone I looked at became a character for a story.

There were the four pre-teen girls dancing down the sidewalk to the Big Band Music blaring out of the speakers at the Classic Car Show that I took the boys to today. The four best buddies were suddenly tap dancers on stage to me.

Then there was the old man who looked like a modern day John Wayne. He was sitting next to his car smoking a cigar, trying to look tough but you could read all over his face that he was really a softie in disguise. He was playing a part.

Next was the fifty-something year old lady dressed up for Halloween I suppose. She wore cat ears and striped, speckled knee socks with matching shorts and blouse that made her look like a giant piece of candy corn. She suddenly became this theatre actress in my mind. I almost heard her singing a show tune as she sprung past me on the sidewalk.

There is not much I don't notice about watching people. (No, I'm not a stalker, just a people-watcher. Writers do that sometimes.) I sometimes wonder what people think and what their stories are. I hope they don't mind me watching them. It's fascinating. I love watching children and seeing the joy of innocence and the delight of learning. I love watching them with their grandparents or an older sibling. There is so much to be learned about life and relationships when doing this.

Most of my writing has been non-fiction but I have dabbled in fiction a little too. My fiction has utilized a memory of people I've seen or known and incorporated it into a character. I don't write all my characters that way but take bits and pieces from people I've known or met and meld them into a character that interests me.

What do you do? How do you invent characters? Do you people-watch too? (Not stalk. That is weird. I'm speaking of a glance or two out of curiosity.)

It's kind of fun trying to match a shopper walking out of the mall with the car they are about to unlock. I guess. Sometimes I'm right. Other times I have been quite surprised. I've learned so much about people. For instance, I've seen an older man approach and unlock a sports car and try to act youthful. I've seen a well-built gentleman look around nervously as he climbed into a mini-van or beater (that's what New Yorkers call a beat up car). Human nature is revealed through the body language and facial expressions of the people around me. Of course one should be careful of becoming judgemental as well. Observation sometimes misses details because they are not evident at first glance.

As Christians we have someone watching us but it is not because they want to write a story about us. Or is it? God had plans written for our lives before time began. The devil would like to re-write those details. We need to portray what is true to our faith and be aware that we are being watched both by God and the devil. Our lives are in God's hands. The steps of a good man or woman are ordered by the Lord and He delights in them.

There are also other witnesses watching us. They may be other characters in the story of our lives. What do the other characters see about and in us? What do our actions tell about us?

I have lots of flaws. I have feet of clay. I know others do not see perfection in me. I don't expect them to. I share it all. The good, the bad and the ugly. Through it all, however, I hope that people see this frail body and weak will to be dominated by a spirit that loves God and people. Even in my people watching, I pray. If I see a sad face, an angry soul, a lonely heart or hear hollow laughter, I realize that although the people I am watching make good characters for my stories, they are also real world people with real world needs, just like me.

Maybe this sounds too wacky to you. I just had to give you a look inside my head for a minute. This is what I think: We can learn a ton about writing from life and piles about life from writing.

What kinds of things have you learned from your characters or even people from whom you created aspects of your characters? What do you think that life has taught you about writing or what has writing has taught you about life?

Leave a comment, please. I'd love to hear your opinions.

Writing From the Shadows

2009-10-22T18:40:00.000-07:00

Those who live in the shelter of the Most High

will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

This I declare of the Lord:

He alone is my refuge, my place of safety;

He is my God and I am trusting Him.

For He will rescue you from every trap and protect you from the fatal plague.

He will shield you with His wings.

He will shelter you with his feathers.

His faithful promises are your armor and your protection.

Psalm 91:1-4

NOTE: I've not been writing on here everyday as usual because I am juggling many things at this time. But don't worry, I'm not far away. I am resting in the shadows for now. Until then, enjoy a few words that are not my own.

What Are the Words?

2009-10-19T18:00:00.000-07:00

What are the words?

They won't seem to come.

All I can think of is ho-hum-drum.

I wish I could pen them but they run away.

What are the words that I could say today?

Okay, it's rather silly but you get the point. All of us get writer's block from time to time or we wish that we did so we didn't write something that ridiculous. Hey! Don't knock it. Dr. Seuss made a living from writing the likes of such nonsense!

My point? Christians and non-christian writers alike suffer from this ailment. How do you overcome this as a writer? Usually if I am unable to write, it is because I'm either too tired or too busy and can't slow down enough to formulate the words.

If that is the case, I take a break and do something fun (though I have to admit to being a little deficient in the fun-activity-finding category). After a brief enjoyable retreat I come back--relaxed enough to write.

If it is because I am too tired, then heaven help us! I am going to write something goofy. Some of my best writing has come when I had writer's block and just wrote whatever crazy thing came to mind. Other times, the product made a flight across the desk into the circular file.

Sometimes, spending a little extra time in prayer helps me bring to mind a spiritual truth or a new direction for my writing. I always ask the Lord to help me to write for Him. I figure that if I've done that and still have nothing to say, then I might be better off saying nothing at all.

Let's here some of your ideas. How do you cure writer's block?

The Write Stuff-His Words Through Our Words

2009-10-11T15:18:00.000-07:00

As Christian writers, we desire to reflect the image of the Author of Life.

Here is what His Word is to us.

Lord, make our words breathe life and bring light to our readers as well. Let us follow in your example. Use our words to bless our readers in this same way.

1. Make our words a lamp to light the way. Psalm 119: 105, 140 "Your Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light to our pathway...Your Word is very pure..."

2. Let our words cleanse. John 15:3 "Now you are clean through the words which I have spoken unto you."

3. Make us mighty in word and deed. Luke 24:19b "...Jesus of Nazareth...mighty in deed and word before God and all the people."

4. Let Your Word dwell in us that it may come forth in our words and go forth with power and blessings. Colossians 3:16a "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly...."

Wield Your Words Wisely

2009-10-05T21:57:00.000-07:00

Words are powerful. I say that often because I believe it. Christian writers have an even greater responsibility to wield their word power and WORD power wisely.

Ecclesiastes 12:10-12 says, "The Teacher searched to find just the right words and what he wrote was upright and true. The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails--given by one Shepherd. Be warned, my son of anything in addition to them. Of making many books there is no end and much study wearies the body."

Here, Solomon was not trying to say that it is a waste of time to write or study. If you read the passage, you will see that the focus is on making sure that your words and actions are guided by the Lord and that they are true to the Word.

Writers are a dime a dozen these days. Godly and good writers are not as plenteous. Mankind has a great deal to say-some of which is pure babble and of others, pure wisdom. Solomon reminds us that "... God will bring every deed into judgement, including every hidden thing whether it is good or evil."

I saw this quote on a fellow writer's blog. TIMES ARE BAD. CHILDREN NO LONGER OBEY THEIR PARENTS AND EVERYONE IS WRITING A BOOK. ~ Cicero, 53 B.C.E. (Written so long ago but so apropos).

Lest you run away discouraged, listen to this: Isaiah 50:4, "The Sovereign Lord has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught..." These words are Messianic prophecy but I think that they can encourage us as well to know that we who have the mind of Christ can be instructed of the Lord in what to write so that we may give sustenance to the weary, rejoice with those who rejoice, and teach truth and wisdom to the simple.

Not everything we write as Christians is inspirational or devotional. Some is entertainment, amusement, or catharsis. In all of this, God can use our words to touch the heart of another and speak His truth--yes, even through humor. All of these types of writing have a place in the world. The Christian writer is unique in that he or she can use any of them to weave in a mesh of truth which nails the truth deep in a reader's heart.

Sometimes, we get discouraged from a professional standpoint. The writing business boils down to sales at times. Sales are "feast or famine". In the dry times, we wonder if writing these words is really worth all the effort. I'm here to say to myself and others that "Yes! It will be worth it all when we see God using our words, even the words that we give out for free on our blogs and newsletters. None of it is a waste of time.

I pray that you and I will remember that we are not the ones holding the power of our words. If we exercise ourselves in skillful practice and open our ears to the guidance of God, He will make them like arrows carrying the message that our readers need to hear.

NOTE to our readers: I am not saying that we are as inspired as the Holy Bible; what I am saying is that God can speak to and through us as Christians who love to wield our words and His Words. That is what makes us inspirational writers.

A prayer for our readers:

Give us wisdom.

Unveil our eyes.

I nspire our ideas.

D irect our steps.

E ncourage us.

O verpower our fears.

U nwrap our dreams and

R epackage them how You desire.

W hen we're weary

O nly in You can we...

R enew our strength and

D aily breathe new life.

So let my words be wise.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

Is the Shepherd in the Driver's Seat?

2009-10-02T16:37:00.000-07:00

When you were a child, did you ever ride in a car with a trustworthy adult who suddenly took you on unfamiliar roads? Though it startled you, you knew and loved the driver enough to know that they were taking you someplace nice? Perhaps it was full of bumps and scary ravines, a lonely dirt road or even in a busy metropolitan area where they had to dodge traffic and take quick sharp turns. No matter how tough it got, you never tried to take the wheel. Why would you, anyway? You can't drive. You don't know the way.

"Where are we going?" you asked.

"Don't worry. You'll like it. Just trust me," came the reply.

So you sit, grinning ear to ear or staring out the window, trying to figure it all out and then finally give up. Either you sat there in peace, knowing that everything was going to be okay or you started up a conversation about something else, all the while thinking about where your journey would take you?

When you finally arrived, you found yourself at a sandy ocean beach or cozy restaurant with an ice cream parlor on the side. All the wonder and worry seem to fade away and you revel in your destination.

Well, life is kind of like that sometimes for a Christian. Sometimes we think we know the familiar way to go. We map it out. Plan our work. Work our plan and suddenly, we find ourselves in unfamiliar territory.

If you are a Christian, you have moved to the passenger seat and trusted the Almighty to drive your life and your career path. You are His child and look to Him to take you where you need to go.

Psalm 23 says, "The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want. He makes me able to lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name sake."

We know this. We quote it. But when the tough times come, what do we do? Quote and believe the rest? "Yes, even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for You are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me..."

It's not often that we walk through the valley of the shadow of death but we do walk through grave situations. Financial struggles, stressful schedules, health issues, unknown futures--these things all overwhelm us. They tempt us to jump back in the driver's seat of our lives and careers. We try to take matters in our own hands and fix things. But we can't drive. We don't know the way. If we try to chart a course in unfamiliar territory, we will be lost or end up in an unpleasant place.

So what can we do? Look to Him. Do not fear. Trust and let go of the wheel. Remember that He is taking you someplace good--someplace with a hope and a future--somewhere unforgettable.

"...You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

Dr. Wordweilder Wonders

2009-09-24T17:16:00.000-07:00

Dr. Wordwielder here with our weekly word and grammar exercises, an evening late, of course, because last evening I was tied up with grading papers at the university. I do hope you will forgive me and that everyone has been studying their dictionaries and thesauruses in my absence.

It has come to my attention that very few are actually answering the examination questions on this web log and so, I would like to ask a few simple questions to determine if I am gearing my tests to the general audience age and ability levels or whether I shall need to adjust the questions accordingly. What is it that Ms. JoJo Tabares says on her show? Oh, yes! "Know your audience." I affirm the veracity of that principle.

So, today before I post our usual questions, let me post the following questions. Perhaps this will provoke some new or returning readers to take a chance on answering for the first time.

You may feel free to either answer via the comment box at the end of this post or email Ms. BeckyJoie at rjeremiah2911@embarqmail.com . Mark the subject line "Dr. William Wordwielder's Survey," please. Another way you can contact me is to write to: RATHER BE WRITING, P.O. Box 1183, Tavares, FL 32778-1183. Address the letter inside to Dr. William Wordwielder c/o BeckyJoie. Thank you.

Answer the following questions either in a comment or a three by five card.

1. What age category are you in?

a. elementary school b. secondary school (6-12th grades) c. college and career age

d. retired e. parent or educator

2. Which part of my weekly posts do you enjoy the most?

a. the story b. the examination questions c. just reading both d. reading both and answering

3. What types of writing do you wish to hear more instruction about?

a. magazine or non-fiction b. poetry c. fiction d. other genre (name it)

4. In what state or country are you located?

a. U.S. if so, tell the specific state b. Canada c. Another country.

5. What do you find the most challenging about writing and language?

6. What do you find the most interesting about writing and language?

Since I have asked you so many extra questions, I shall only ask two of our usual exam questions in the event that I might have some participants who wish to answer both sets of questions.

Here they are:

1.Hectic or Helpful Homonyms. Select the correct homonym. They are hectic when used improperly and helpful when fitly used.
THIS WEEK'S HOMONYM: The library aide climbed the ___________ a. ladder or b. latter (choose one) to retrieve Webster's Collegiate Dictionary from the top shelf in the resource room.

2. Ideal or Idiotic Idioms. One feels like an idiot unless he or she uses these idioms correctly.
THIS WEEK'S IDIOM QUESTION: Because Wilbur wanted to be popular, he competed to prove he could do as well as anybody else in everything he did. Unfortunately, his_____________________ a. one track mind or b. one-upmanship (choose one) backfired on him and he lost all of his friends.

Answer the second set of questions in the comment box at the end of this post AND please answer the first set of questions via comment, email or regular mail. I shall return later to tell you who answered the most correctly. Don't forget, there is a prize in a few weeks for the reader who answers the most questions and for those who participate. Thank you.

2009-09-23T17:19:00.000-07:00

Dr. Wordweilder will return tomorrow. He was delayed at the university-grading papers. :>) He asked me to send his apologies.

Old Grooves and New Moves

2009-09-21T18:28:00.000-07:00

THE GROOVE:

Returning to Palm Writer's Group was the highlight of my evening. During the previous two months, pre-occupation with family matters rendered me unable to attend. As usual, there was a fair balance of humor and banter at the round table (rectangular but still hosts a meeting of the minds.) There were a few awkward moments where topics included in writers' manuscripts became the butt of wisecracks making some of us blush.

As I sat there tonight, I began to realize how much I missed this group of people for the year or so when I had moved away and not attended the meetings. The group has changed so much over the years but it is still colorful and diverse.

The former president of the group was back and shared a story which told of a recent spiritual experience. I enjoyed reading his work and seeing him again. Faithful, long-time members along with newer members-- a few faces I didn't recognize--all contributed to a wonderful experience. Fellow word-lovers of varied perspectives agreed together to help one another improve the writing ability of each individual. There were mystics, Catholics, Christians, agnostics, atheists and people from various lifestyles spread around the table each smiling, laughing and critiquing the others' works without animosity. It's just the sort of place for a Christian Writer to be.

To top it off, I made a new friend, thanks to a mutual friend, Barb. Our testimonies and choices of a life verse were similar. (A life verse is one chosen to be used somewhat like a mission statement given to a person by God.) We shared a wonderful conversation after the meeting. I was familiar with books by authors with whom she is associated and have used them to help church members who have been hurt by various offensive things in the church (not my church, per say, but the universal church in general). I am interested to see where the Lord takes this "God-incidental" meeting as I really connected with this guest on many levels. I look forward to interacting with her and seeing the input she brings to our group. I'm sure that she has much to offer us in the line of constructive criticism.

It was good to see my writing colleagues and to be back in the grove again. Now I just need to get signed up for the web activities connected with the group. It is time to be diligent about this once more. Palm Group helped me tremendously over the years with improving my writing skills. I also became good at editing and critiquing as well as receiving critiques. This is the group that John, the former president used to call "The Carnivores". I was on the receiving end of a few of those man-eating critiques. It sure did sharpen my skills (after I picked my fragile ego up off the floor!) I'm thankful that I've been a part of this fantastic group of writing critics and writers. There are so many new members that I am excited about getting to know. (I'm reading their awesome stories, too.) This it the group I like best for their editing and analyzing abilities.

THE MOVE:

Clermont Christian Writers Group will be starting up again Monday at 1pm BUT they will not be in the old library downtown. The library has a new groove--a brand, spanking new building near the college in Clermont. (Did you know there was a college in Clermont? I had no clue.) Well, I am anxious to meet up with these writers again after the group went on a summer hiatus. I've missed the crew there which included members from Africa, Clermont, Leesburg, Tavares and surrounding areas.

One writer is a missionary in Muslim territory. She shared ways that Christians can invite Muslims into their homes to show them Christian love. Her writing is fantastic! She writes vignettes about her experiences in Africa. They are cute little children's stories with a gently-woven-in moral. I love them.

Another lady grew up in a Circus family but she is so mellow, sweet and kind. Her stories are very spiritual and show the relational side of walking with God. She writes devotional material as well as skits and has a large novel in the works. I found an immediate connection with her as I also grew up in a family that traveled and performed, though for different reasons.

Too there is a former sports writer who writes prophetic books and stories that evoke deep emotional responses toward the faith and toward helping others. He always has a unique perspective on things.

The leader of our group is a many-time published Chicken Soup for the Soul writer. She does a marvelous job of keeping us updated on market opportunities, providing accountability for members in our writing goals. Her most helpful talent is the ability to encourage everyone to be the best writers that they can be.

There are several other writers that I enjoy reading in this group as well. They write to comfort those with long-term illness or personal baggage and/or for entertainment as well as their own person enjoyment. A couple battle disabilities and illnesses but continue toward their writing goals, blessing us all with their words.

I'm excited to return to our next meeting Monday. I just hope my directional disabilities don't kick in too high gear on the trip. I will have to take advantage of both Map Quest and MS Streets and Trips. I might even beg my friend, Lyssie, to let me borrow her GPS in addition. Can you tell I'm Geographically Deficient?

So, now that I've rambled on and on about my writing groups, what does this have to do with you, the readers?

Well, I've ranted periodically on Rather Be Writing about the need for writers to attend a writers' group of some sort. The reason why is because I believe that it is difficult to be a good writer and stay on top of the game without cheerleaders to spur you on further on the journey. I feel that the challenge of submitting to a group of critics prepares you for the possible rejection you might receive from a publishing editor. In addition, reading the work of other authors teaches you things about writing that you can't learn if you only write and read one genre. There is a great deal to be learned from the analysis and discussion of all types of writing.

Much of the writing I read and critique in Palm Group is material I would never otherwise read as it is secular (nothing wrong with it, just not my personal choice for everyday reading.) Some of it comes from an absolute opposite viewpoint spiritually or politically. Reading it, gives me an understanding of people unlike myself and an opportunity to develop a relationship with the same. It can help, as well, when I am writing about a character, to know how real life people from real life situations might word things or act. It's a free education, if you will. We all learn from each other. It's an experience I wouldn't trade for the world and that I would highly recommend to all writers. (No hyperbole here. LOL).

When it comes to Christian Writer's Groups, it is obvious that the group often contains more of a spiritual focus which can sometimes even reach outside of the writing topics. If all writers feel that they march to a different beat from the rest of the world, then Christian writers feel it in even more profound ways. This market is not as widespread with opportunities and often has limitations that other markets do not. those who read this genre may not be as willing or able to purchase what is offered. Being in a Christian group can also help understand the picky sticky areas of the genre. It is so helpful to receive tips and info on other Christian Writers' marketing experiences as well as to feel the genuine care over the spiritual leadings on: how to write, what to write an where to submit. We've held meetings that included prayer when someone felt discouraged or needed direction. As a Christian writer, that is a unique experience. I want to be led by the Lord in anything I write, whether it is for the secular or Christian markets. Christian Writer's Groups understand the need to be spirit-led and yet still prod you toward publication goals you may choose for yourself.

But what if you don't have a writers group in your area? There are many wonderful online communities for both secular and Christian writers. I've posted about some of them under the labels marked "cheerleaders". If you know of any, please post your comments so that other readers may benefit. To quote a popular musical, "We're all in this together."

If you aren't able to join an online community of writers nor a local critique or writing group, then I suggest praying for God to send you online writing friends with whom you can connect. I've met some of the best writers and editors online! I believe they were heaven-sent to my life for the purpose of mutual encouragement on many levels as well as professional improvement. If you don't have connections with other writers, you know the One who can make it all happen for you. Ask and you will receive. God is good about answering specific prayer!

When it comes to business connections, trust Him also. Trust and obey and let Him make the way! Remember you are writing for a purpose. He is the provider and we are the distributors. Look to the Ultimate Navigator for direction! He will not lead you astray but will move in and through you to new and old grooves.

The Author of the Most Important Words

2009-09-19T18:59:00.000-07:00

Dr. Wordwiedler has nothing on the Author of Life. I'll be happy to give the exam questions for Dr. Wordwielder's Quiz later, but for now, I had to share these words from the Author of the Word of Life, the Bible. It's a worthwhile but lengthy video filled with the words of wonder and awe at the majesty of our Creator. While, we, the writers toil late into the night or arise early in the morning to write our meager words, the Author of Life has written many words for us to read and follow. Our words will fade, but His Word lasts forever.

Please watch it when you have some time. Thank you.

Dr. Wordweilder's Communcation Carol

2009-09-16T18:16:00.000-07:00

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Dr. William Wordweilder here.

This has been a wonderfully productive week for me. The majority of students in my classes at the university are adjusting well to their routines and schedules. In doing so, they make our time together work like finely-oiled machinary. Their wise use of study time frees me from having to round up late papers and reports from the students. I am abundantly proud of them. They are putting forth a great effort to learn the materials and become excellent users of English grammar and speech.

I would also like to give a word of appreciation to Ms. JoJo Tabares, a regular web log commenter here at Rather Be Writing. Not only does she ace the examinations the majority of the time but also she is owed gratitude for offering her talk show contest participants a copy of her book, FIMMology 101, the FIMMportant and Funbelievable Study of the Humorous Sins of the Mouth. Ms. BeckyJoie participated in the game show that Ms. JoJo held at Communication Comedy Network and just for participating, won a free copy of the ebook.

I must admit to difficulty adjusting to the idea of a book that is read in an electronic format. I made it apparent to Ms. BeckyJoie who then printed it for me to have in hand. She did ask that I return it after a brief look and purchase my own copy so as not to infringe on copyright laws. (You can do the same by clicking on the side link of this blog that is titled Communication FUNdamentals.) Ms.BeckyJoie has spoken to me of its superiority for applying humor to teach appropriate communication skills. It was her thought that I might be interested in using it at the university. And that, I just might. Nevertheless, I would like to provide you with a brief review of FIMMOLOGY 101.

First of all, Mr. FIMM has a very handsome name—Franklin Ignatius McMiller Possible but he soon earned the nickname of FIMM, the Foot in Mouth Man. I shan’t spoil the story by divulging too many details but suffice it to say that FIMM has a reputation like none other.

After a brief introduction, the ebook takes the reader along on a ride similar to that which Charles Dickens’ character, Ebenezer Scrooge, took with the spirits of Christmas past, present and future. The author, Ms. Communicator (JoJo) herself took me on a tour of FIMM’s many faux pas from birth to his mature years.

First, FIMM loses his source of employment at Balfurd Cleaners because of appearing to have a dirty mouth. (Never you fret, my friends, things are not always as they appear. After a bit, we discover that all that does not glitter on his sign is not fifth, but some poorly placed words. )

After this, FIMM cleans up for a job interview and makes his resume elaborate. In fact, he elaborates so much that I sincerely doubt that the manager receiving his resume has any questions whatsoever to ask him.

FIMM does eventually obtain employment but not without contorting like a yogi first (Foot In Mouth). I must say that I agree with Ms. BeckyJoie’s husband, Douglas, who believes that FIMM must have chocolate feet. He is always inserting them into his mouth.

Next, FIMM finds himself in a mite of legal trouble but manages to fudge his way out of it—barely—and just in time to change residences. First, though, he has to sell his dog without scaring off all the neighborhood children. A dog like his would not be allowed in his new place of abode.

The ebook shares quite a variety of snapshots of FIMM’s life from his single adulthood to dating dilemmas and church volunteer work, right up through his marriage, even giving a glimpse of the family man that FIMM has always wanted to be. This is where I find FIMM most relatable.

I’ve been a bachelor all these many years and must confess that I do so long for holidays with loved ones as FIMM finally finds. His many years of searching were eventually satisfied, which is more than I could say for myself who I think an old codger set in my ways. (I determined an eon ago that I would settle for nothing but the best. Being married to a poor communicator would be the bane of my existence. But the woman of my dreams is a figment of my imagination, I suppose. Why, she would be lovely and well spoken, a bit more flamboyant than I, since I’m what many might consider to be a boring professor.

She must bring a little spark of color and comfort to the home and yet, still accommodate my stacks of research without resenting the small areas of clutter. I am neat nick for the most part. My books are alphabetized, my closet already arranged by color and my shoes lined in neat rows on the floor beneath the hanging clothes. But my library—well, it is clean and orderly other than banquet tables assigned with works in progress, and, of course, some of the books that I consult on a frequent basis never make it back onto the dusty bookshelves. And the Mrs.—well, she would need to turn a deaf ear to my external processing of information during research AND to the oral reading of my own manuscripts. I’ve heard that one ought to read his or her own manuscripts aloud in order to make sure the flow is natural for the reader or for dialogue.)

Well, here I go again on a rabbit trail. It’s just that I feel in my heart that my future wife is out there, somewhere wandering and looking for her soul mate but cannot find me because I am buried deeply in my work. Not many women turn my head. But one, a red head I think, wearing a velvet hat and gloves breezed past me one day when I was at the booksellers establishment looking over a published magazine article of mine. Her voice sent shivers down my spine and I had to raise my head to see whom this eloquent and elegant lady might be. But like an angel, she was gone in an instant, as if appearing with an iridescent corona and then vanishing into thin air. She had a familiar accent, as if I had known her in another time and another place and yet she was estranged from me.

My friends, please accept my sincere apologies. It appears that I have been sidetracked by a daydream once again. My intention is neither to gain sympathy nor to lead you to conclude that I am unhappy as a single adult. No, it is merely that I have found FIMM relatable and sympathize with his years of “single-itude” . I shall have to pay closer attention to how he overcame this malady (though I think singlehood a gift at times).

Alas, you shall have to purchase a copy of his adventures at Ms. JoJo’s website at Art of Eloquence, in order to read about his travels on the road of life. His story has been told and continues. My biography is yet to be written, even at this age. I’m a youth at heart-at least like a youth who lived in the fifties. Anyway, you didn’t come to hear all that; you have come to take the examination.

I decided to assist readers in winning a prize by giving some them options for participating in the quiz. In a few weeks, there will be a prize for the most faithful examinee. There will also be an award for all those who participate. Return again for the next four weeks to join in and have a chance to win the prize. The winner will not only receive a free blog or business advertisement on Ms. BeckyJoie’s blog, but also a small token of appreciation that writers and word-lovers of all kinds will enjoy.

I am certain that you will want to take up the pen and begin now so here are this week’s questions. Don’t forget to leave blog comments.

1.Hectic or Helpful Homonyms. Select the correct homonym. They are hectic when used improperly and helpful when fitly used.
THIS WEEK'S QUESTION: The students who wish to attend my lectures but live too far away may send (a. Correspondents OR b. Correspondence) along with a SASE requesting the lessons be sent to them weekly.

2. Ideal or Idiotic Idioms. One feels like an idiot unless he or she uses these idioms correctly.
THIS WEEK'S QUESTION: The young man who “cried wolf” too many times could not get anyone to believe him when he was in real trouble demonstrates that:
(a. Chickens always come home to roost OR b. he was a cold fish.)

3. Wise or Wacky Words. Sometimes I shall share a wise word for your use. At other times, it shall be a strange or wacky word that you, the readers shall help to define.
THIS WEEK'S WORD. This word is of Yiddish Origin. Glitch or Glitsh. Usage. A well-prepared lesson and presentation should proceed without a glitch.
This word means to “skip” or “nose dive”. Americans have adapted this word into everyday vocabulary.

4. Comical or Cute Coinage. Step one. Terms that I find cute or comical. Step two; you share a word that you find fitting in either category as well. We shall sharpen each other’s intellect.
THIS WEEK'S WORD. Inblogtrinated. The act of being persuaded that social media is an excellent means of communicating ideas and promoting business. USAGE: Though I prefer to write with pen and notepaper or an old fashioned typewriter, I’ve become inblogtrinated into the modern ways of writing and publishing.

5. Spelling Slips. This shall include words that are commonly misspelled. You will need to select the correct spelling.
THIS WEEK'S QUESTION: The children’s church song lyrics for “I’m in the Lord’s Army” say that “I may never ride in a (a. calvary OR b. cavalry.)”

6. Pun Fun. Here I shall share a pun and I would like you to share one also.
THIS WEEK'S PUN-LINER. If you dispose of an old chalkboard sponge are you ex-sponging (expunging)?

Send in your puns, coined phrases and answers to the exam. Ms. JoJo’s friend, FIM uses some great puns. For instance, he frequently catches athlete’s tongue by sticking his foot in his mouth. Let’s see if you can send in some puns this week.

In fact, I’m going to make it easy for you all this week and allow you to choose two of these questions to answer on this week’s examination. I shall extend free credit for the unanswered questions if a new quizzer will answer only two of the questions. I shall look forward to reading your witty answers very soon.

Superior Scribbler Award

2009-09-14T07:25:00.000-07:00

Wow! I'm so amazed and blessed. I was nominated for another blog award. Woo Hoo! I would like to thank Rebecca from Living a Life of Writing at http://rebeccasbook.blogspot.com/2009/09/award-time.html for nominating me for this award.

Now it is my turn to nominate people. Here are the rules:

The Super Scribbler

1. Each Superior Scribbler, must in turn, pass the Award on to 5 most-deserving bloggy buds.

2. Each Superior Scribbler must link to the author and name of the blog from whom he/she has received the Award.

3. Each Superior Scribbler must display the Award on his/her blog and link to this post which explains the Award.

4. Each blogger who wins the Award must visit this post and add his or her name to the Mr. Linky List at the Scholastic-Scribe's blog. That way, we'll be able to keep up-to-date on everyone who wins this prestigious Award! http://scholastic-scribe.blogspot.com/2008/10/200-this-blings-for-you.html

5. Each Superior Scribbler must post these rules on his/her blog.

Here are my nominations.

1. JoJo Tabares at http://artofeloquence.com/blog/. Her purple blog won the "Kreativ Blogger" award last week but she is better known for her Christian ministries and business at Art of Eloquence and Communication Comedy Network, a weekly blogcast of comedic proportions based on communication. You can listen to her very funny show on Thursdays weekly at: http://www.talkshoe.com/tc/19736.

2. Terri Tiffany also won a "Kreativ Blogger" Award last week on her personal blog but this week, the credit goes out to her for another blog that is always packed with market leads and great ideas for Christian writers in her Clermont Christian Writers Group (of which I'm blessed to hold membership. ) http://clermontchristianwritersgroup.blogspot.com/

3. Olivia from Inspired By Grace, http://inspiredbygrace.blogspot.com/ She always has amazing photos, heartfelt, inspiring words and poetry. Be sure to check out her professional photography page as well. She is an award winner. Anyone can also see that she is a genuine Christian!

4. Of course, I would re-nominate Rebecca who referred me, even though she has had two nominations already. See the link above. She has the amazing ability to carry on writing about the same topic for days and keep it interesting and educational. Great job, Rebecca, and thanks also for nominating me. :>)

5. Last but not least is Ray Thombs. He is a songwriter/singer turned blogger. He writes short and concise blogs but there is always something good in the posts. Check out his website and blog. (Scroll down to the bottom of the webpage for the blog link or listen to the lyrics he wrote on his main page-he has some mystery woven through here and there that one must ask him about to find the full meaning. It's "evoktional" as he puts it.) http://jenr8tmusic.com/

Dr. Wordwielder's Wise Warnings

2009-09-09T18:05:00.000-07:00

Good evening, Ladies and Gentleman, I am pleased to make my weekly appearance here at Rather Be Writing. I'm ever so indebted to you my astute audience, for being such faithful participants in my written English Grammar examinations. I have been ruminating about a method of thanking you for your involvement through the means of some material compensation for the time and effort you have put forth. As a result, I will soon announce the rules for a contest to win a resource to assist you even further than our weekly lessons. Be sure to appear here at Rather Be Writing in the next few weeks for more details.

Presently, I would like to reveal a tidbit of information that one might find useful in preparation for studying grammar. I have read the abstract of recent studies in the scientific community regarding the correlation of nutrition to the acuity of the brain. It appears that neuroscientists have discovered that cerebral health and functionality are enhanced by the ingestion of certain supplemental capsules and dietary choices which include: Omega Fatty acids which are found in fish, eggs and some nuts and seeds as well as phytonutrients and amino acids found in micro algae, fresh fruits and vegetables. Augmentation of these into one's diet, may increase the ability of the brain to connect the synapses used by neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine which promote well-being and the ability to develop and increase cognition. Another nourishment which enhances cerebral functioning is drinking optimum quantities of water. Though one might not benefit from drinking too high amounts of water, insufficient levels of water intake can be detrimental. The average person's body requires 6-8 glasses of water per day in order to prevent dehydration.

One symptom of dehydration is mental confusion. When a person is not drinking enough water, he or she will have difficulty thinking clearly and will be unable to learn effectively which makes the creative process of writing difficult to say the least.

I have noted that my students in these past few years are drinking more and more soft drinks then in years past and also less water. I've heard rumor that carbonation in soft drinks does not allow proper hydration and may actually dehydrate the brain. I have also seen, at least at my university how the class schedules are becoming so tight that it might make one unable to drink enough water during the day due to a dirth of transition time between classes for drinking and eliminating (I do apologize for the graphic content, but one must realize that with input there is certainly going to be output and a healthy person needs to have output approximately 5-6 times per day. Anything less indicates not enough liquid intake.)

Please excuse my digression. I fear I must sound like a walking health encyclopedia. But I must encourage you lovers of pen and ink to ensure for yourselves adequate nutrition and hydration. I do so enjoy a good cup of English tea daily but do try to keep my limit of one or two so that the caffeine will not act as a diuretic. I want to be sure that my thought processes are sharp as well so I do chose green tea often although it is not Earl Grey. It took some adjustment on my part as it will for you as well, but I'm sure that you will desire to nourish your cerebral health and be the best writer and grammatician you are capable of becoming. I pray that you will humor me for this bit of grandfatherly advice. I do get carried away on tangents from time to time but it is because of my deep concern for your well-being and the decrease in scholarly writers that I've seen in the last decade.

Consequently, I shall proceed without much further adieu to present this week's examination.
Your assignment shall be to read the instructions and answer the question that correlates to it below. Put your answers either here or on your own weblog and create a link back to this examination so that others may see your skillful and well-thought answers.

1.Hectic or Helpful Homonyms. Select the correct homonym. They are hectic when used improperly and helpful when fitly used.

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION: The young cook learned to pick the (a. flower OR b. flour) that was whole-grain because it was healthier for her body and brain.

2. Ideal or Idiotic Idioms. One feels like an idiot unless he or she uses these idioms correctly.

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION. The university student (a. beat his brains out OR b. became an egghead) trying to write a literary analysis without eating or drinking all day but he was unsuccessful due to mild dehydration and low blood sugar.

3. Wise or Wacky Words. Sometimes I shall share a wise word for your use. At other times, it shall be a strange or wacky word that you, the readers shall help to define.

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION. Malapropism. Is it: (a. the inability to prop one's book up at an appropriate angle OR b. the act or habit of misusing a word.)

4. Comical or Cute Coinage. Step one. Terms that I find cute or comical. Step two, you share a word that you find fitting in either category as well. We shall sharpen each other’s intellect.

THIS WEEK'S WORD. Gadabout: A person who runs about aimlessly seeking entertainment. A social butterfly. Now send us one of your favorite words or coined phrases. Let us see if anyone in addition to Ms. JoJo can come up with something cute or comical. (But feel free, Ms. JoJo to play as well.)

5. Spelling Slips. This shall include words that are commonly misspelled. You will need to select the correct spelling.

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION. (a. Nuerotransmitters OR b. Neurotransmitters) are the body's Morse code or communication system.

6. Pun Fun. Here I shall share a pun and I would like you to share one also.

THIS WEEK'S PUN-LINER. If you join a group of your colleagues at McDonald's Restaurant for dinner and do not eat but pray instead, is the fare there still fast food?

Send in your puns, coined phrases and answers to the exam. I shall look forward to reading your witty answers very soon. But for now, I shall sip a cup of decaffeinated Green Tea, cream and sugar of course. Perhaps I shall be successful in duping my gustatory senses into believing it to be the familiar Earl Grey tea I oft drink.

Until next time, ladies and gentlemen, I leave you with one request. Guard your cerebral health and exercise your brain cells! Tut tut! Good bye for now.

Blog Awards

2009-09-04T15:53:00.001-07:00

I would like to thank my friend over at http://www.amberinglass.blogspot.com/ for nominating me for this award. I was quite surprised to receive it and consider it an honor to be chosen as a creative blogger. I hope that Rather Be Writing is a blessing to you and your family as a resource for entertainment, education in writing and grammar as well as encouragement as a writer and/or Christian business person. I, too, have been inspired by a few creative bloggers/writers and would like to nominate seven more people to receive this award. I have not chosen randomly but for my faith and gratitude to these people for being either high quality writers or inspirational bloggers. Some of my nominees fit both categories. All are highly creative people who I respect and admire.

Here are my choices to nominate for the Kreativ Blogger award (Sorry, I just have to add that I'm a really bothered by the spelling of the award. I'm a bit OCD I suppose.) Anyway, here they are, not in any particular order.

1. Terri Tiffany. http://http//terri-treasures.blogspot.com/ Terri is an excellent writer who inspires me in so many ways. A many time published writer, her stories have been in Chicken Soup for the Soul and several other anthologies and Sunday School publications. She is also a great friend who I have mentioned several times on my blog. Terri's creativity shines through in her topics and the way she interacts/provokes comments on her blog. Kudos, Terri!

2. Next is Dawn Gregg, of Attaching Hearts.http://attachinghearts.blogspot.com/ Her blog was one of the first and best blogs I found of Christian parents of adoptive children with Reactive Attachment Disorder. Whenever I need some encouragement, I just go to her page and the music and posts lift me up. One of the creative things she does is to take pictures of heart shapes that she finds and post them as signs of God's love to us. I love it! Dawn, you're a creative blogger. I admire you!

3. The next one is my friend, Debbie Hannan, who is a strong woman who knows how to nurture the people around her and she writes about it in the most unique ways--so transparent yet mysterious. Debi, you are also a great writer! You have a gift. Your blog is not just a way for you to document your healing process. I think you have a book in you. You are a shining star!http://singlemominacomplicatedworld.blogspot.com/

4. Of course, I cannot leave out JoJo Tabares, who is one of the most creative blogger-writers I know! I love all of her websites and products but this one takes the cake.http://www.fortheloveofpurple.com/ Congratulations, Purple Princess! You are tops on creativity! (Hugs, Purple Power and all that Purple Jazz!)

5. My dear friend, Gidget Blunt is another creative blogger who writes in a way that I wish I could-concise. She is also a fellow TOS Crewmember who reviews products for vendors who have an agreement with The Old Schoolhouse Magazine. She writes about this, that and everything and is certainly one of my favorite creative bloggers and the name of her blog fits. She is a gem! Garden of Gems. http://www.gardenofgems.blogspot.com/

6. Next, is Tiffany at Hillside Hollow.http://hillsidehollow.blogspot.com/ Talk about creative! She makes new jeans out of old ones, creates unique recipes, blogs about lapbooking, sports, outdoor adventures, homeschooling, chocolate and a myriad of other topics. She always has eye-pleasing layouts and is apparently more tech savvy than I because she can always get her photos to line up perfectly and even wraps the text around it with textboxes for the outline of the words. Did I mention, I adore her? Tiffany, you are definitely a creative blogger!

7. Last, but not least, is a friend I am just getting to know. She is part of our homeschooling group and is also an adoptive parent. I "met" her via the web after some kind ladies from the group told me I should connect with her because we had some commonalities in our lives. She was a great help to me and still is. Her blog is very, very interesting and she writes tactfully about incredibly unique experiences, even some I would be too shy to discuss with my close friends if they were my experiences! (And I'm not shy in most people's opinions.) Melissa is a wonderful, organized person who is very creative in her blogging. I always look forward to seeing what new thing she is going to write about! So, Melissa, you are my 7th and final nominee. http://kiwiyates.blogspot.com/

So...

Here are the rules for the award (and I quote):

1. Thank the person who nominated you for this award.
2. Copy the logo and place it on your blog.
3. Link to the person who nominated you for this award.
4. Name 7 things about yourself that people might find interesting.
5. Nominate 7 Kreativ Bloggers.
6. Post links to the 7 blogs you nominate.
7. Leave a comment on each of the blogs letting them know they have been nominated.

OKAY: so here are my seven things that you might find interesting about me:

1. I grew up in a family that sang and performed music, puppetry, ventriloquism and traveled across the New England States under the name, Victory Messengers. We also had a small television program.

2. I have taken acting classes and love performing arts. I met my husband while we were teamed up as singing/dancing partners in a musical at Family Life Ministries in Bath, NY where he worked.

3. I can't dance. But I want to try. I am just afraid to do it in public so I borrowed videos from the library two weeks ago and I'm planning at some point when my schedule eases up to bust a move in my living room. I will first hide all camcorders and digital cameras.

4. I really want a daughter. I'm praying about a situation that might bring one into my life. I'm not pregnant either.

5. My secret desire is to upgrade my education and I want degrees in multiple areas of study: Psychology/Counseling, Secondary Education with concentrations in English and History (I took Elementary Ed prior), Special Education, Music and Journalism. I'm not ambitious at all am I? Maybe I will finish when I'm eighty.

6. I hate to cook, but don't mind baking.

7. I never eat when I'm writing a big project. I'd rather drink my meals or order an I.V. ! My poor family. Good thing hubby cooks. Your turn now.

Answers To Dr. Wordwielder's Wisdom Quiz

2009-09-04T15:41:00.000-07:00

1. Floridians are fond of “yard (a. Sailing OR b. saling)”. B. Yard-SALING though technically it is yard sales not saling.
2. Under His Wings Womens Center held a vigil for domestic violence survivors; the gentleman brought a candle and attended because he: a. realized that actions speak louder than words OR B. wanted to add fuel to the fire. A. Actions speak louder than words. He certainly would not want to add fuel to the fire.
3. Abecedarian. Define it. Is it: A. one who uses an abacus to teach Mathematics OR B. a beginner or learner of the alphabet? B. An Abecedarian is one who is a beginner or learner of the alphabet.
4. Blogstruck. Being enamored with a topic about which one of your colleagues has posted via a weblog or social media device. Ms. JoJo, I liked your coined word. Thank you for playing.
5. The misspelled word was suppose to be "friend". One would shudder at the thought of having a fiend stick closer than a brother!
6. “When a medical professional starts poking and ribbing you, it is not a good idea to command ‘Cut it out, sir”—the accidental appendectomy patient. Saying cut it out to the doctor is not a wise idea if he is a pun person. One might also end up with a missing organ!

Dr. Wordwielder's Words of Wisdom

2009-09-02T19:22:00.000-07:00

Dr. Word Wielder here. I trust that in my absence, you’ve all been brushing up on your grammar. Ms. BeckyJoie has been teaching her children about root words and prefixes. They seem to have adapted fairly well and are developing an affinity to stretching their vocabulary by using words that they have never heard of nor understood prior. In fact, I think one of them has decided that he shall take up a hobby of the same ilk that Ms. BeckyJoie has chosen for her career. He has begun writing stories and making up sentences using the words from his lessons. I do believe that he was found using a cardboard box turned tablet to do so because he wanted to pen the words quickly and illustrate them himself. Ms. BeckyJoie was estactic, to put it in the common vernacular. I too, congratulated her on the successful passing of the torch. With a bit of mentoring, the young chap might actually become skillful at the craft. Perhaps, someday, he shall develop a desire to pursue a career in communications and enroll in my university classes. But for now, I think that it is a good idea for him to engage in Writing Workshops and critique circles of his peers. Perhaps, I shall talk his mother into beginning a Workshop in the new umbrella school in which he partakes. I shall not have the time to teach him myself.

I’ve been busy from top to toe with preparations for the new semester at the university. My classes are at an abundance of attendees, which is excellent for the sake of our educational institution in this era of global financial crisis about which we hear ad infinitem. (Regardless of the financial situation, I assume that I shall fare fine with my collection of rare, antique books though I wouldst die a thousand deaths of starvation before parting with them).

Nevertheless, the flurry of life’s whirlwinds shall not prevail this evening as it has in the past week or so. I do believe Ms. Oakes has repaired her technical issues with people who cough too much (hackers). Now I shall deliver my weekly lesson. I would like you also to add a word on an area of English, Grammar or Writing about which you have questions. Then leave your answers in the box marked “comments” and I shall return later to grade them. Thank you so much for your faithful participation. I am delighted to have you in my correspondence class hosted via the Internet.

DIRECTIONS: I shall post one or more of these weekly. Sometimes I shall include them all. You will need to understand the rules and definitions.

1. Hectic or Helpful Homonyms. (Select the correct homonym. .They are hectic when used improperly and helpful when fitly used.)
2. Ideal or Idiotic Idioms. (One feels like an idiot unless he or she uses these idioms correctly.)
3. Wise or Wacky Words. (Sometimes I shall share a wise word for your use. At other times, it shall be a strange or wacky word that you, the readers shall help to define.)
4. Comical or Cute Coinage. (Step one. I share terms that I find cute or comical. Step two, you share a word that you find fitting in either category as well. We shall sharpen each other’s intellect.)
5. Spelling Slips. This shall include words that are commonly misspelled. You will need to select the correct one.
6. Pun Fun. I do relish a bit of dry, English or New Englandish humor. Puns are a way of life for some of Ms. BeckyJoie’s family as well. Here I shall share a pun and I would like you to share one also.

Are you prepared sufficiently to attempt the examination?

Learning Language is the sharpening stick for the scholar's sword.

Here are the questions. Remember to consult the rules above. Choose the correct answer and post to the blog. Each category is numbered and defined above.

1. Floridians are fond of “yard (a. Sailing OR b. saling)”.
2. Under His Wings Womens Center held a vigil for domestic violence survivors; the gentleman brought a candle and attended because he: a. realized that actions speak louder than words OR B. wanted to add fuel to the fire.
3. Abecedarian. Define it. Is it: A. one who uses an abacus to teach Mathematics OR B. a beginner or learner of the alphabet?
4. Blogstruck. Being enamored with a topic about which one of your colleagues has posted via a weblog or social media device.
5. What is this misspelled word suppose to be? “A Fiend is someone who sticks closer than a brother.”
6. “When a medical professional starts poking and ribbing you, it is not a good idea to command ‘Cut it out, sir”—the accidental appendectomy patient.

Well, it is time for me to retire for the night. I hope that you enjoyed yourself while taking my examination and that you were able to guess the correct answers. Re-read the rules, please, ladies and gentlemen, and then post your answers here and also on your own blog, giving a link back to my grammar lesson. Once, again, I think Ms. BeckyJoie for allowing me to have time and space on her webpage. Until next time, my companions….

Dr. Wordwielder, signing off. Writers: take this to heart. Teachers, tell your students: Use wise words when working and writing this week. Wield them well and wisdom will walk with you.

Kind Kids

2009-09-01T20:07:00.000-07:00

A little over two years ago, I was a co-writer on a Kind Kids Curriculum written for children in daycares and preschools from Birth to Age Five, preposed to pilot in Lake County schools and/or VPK. The program is extensive and includes parenting help for teenage or young mom's in how to nurture and teach kindness to their children as well as opportunities for people in the community to encourage acts of kindness in society in general. It will include puppetry, cartoons, games, stories, songs and more. It's still in the development stage as it was put on hold due to funding issues.

This week, I received an email informing me that the project is back on the front burner as we are working on the filming of videos for corporate funding of the pilot. At this time, we are looking for local families with three year olds who would like to be filmed as part of this volunteer effort to create a kindness curriculum that will help combat the violence and apathy of today's society and turn the hearts of parents toward their children.

The organization with which I work that is founding this program is Kindness Works International. http://www.kindnessworksinternational.org/ My initial involvement with this project was in co-creating characters, skits, and games to help promote kindness. I also wrote and recorded a song that was filmed for an introductory video. Feeble, mind you, but original, LOL. I have not been super-involved with the project over the last few months but I do know of the original intent. If it has stayed true to it's original track, then I support the cause-whole heartedly and expect to be involved again soon with more curriculum writing. It's very exciting.

Although KWI is a secular organization, there are many people of faith working cooperatively with them to promote the traditional values to future generations through this curriculum and other ventures, such as college scholarships they handed out based on Kind Acts and more. A spokesman for the organization is contemporary Christian singer named, Norman Lee. You can view one of his KWI videos and listen to his music here.

http://www.normanleeprayon.com/home.html

Another wonderful participant in KWI is my friend, the very kind-hearted painter/photographer, http://www.myronleggett.com/ About two and a half years ago, he painted a portrait of Rachel Scott (Columbine victim) for her mother and helped KWI launch it's One Act of Kindness project. His actions did cause a giant ripple and we were touched by it's reaches.

It was through his project that our middle son was brought to our attention as a young person who needed an adoptive family. To sum it up, one act of kindness led to another which led to another and here we are with two teen boys we didn't know we were going to adopt. That happened after I became involved with the curriculum-writing end of things. It was a beautiful story. While writing the scope and sequence for the courses, my son's public school teacher, a Christian who had been praying for God to bring her student a family, came in to the room and the shop owner where we were meeting asked her opinion of the curriculum. Then she told us about this boy who needed a family. She described him and I began bawling. I knew she was describing my future son. My husband and I had prayed for specific things and God answered by dropping in our laps this boy with his list matching our prayer list. Wow. When we finally saw a picture of him, we saw our other son as well and began praying about him. We adopted the first child by himself and then a while later, after months of prayer, we adopted the second son-not related. Now we have a house full. We have an opportunity to show kindness to those who've not known it much in their lives. It is our hope that our acts of kindness to them, spurred by the acts of kindness by which we found them, will also ripple into more kindness and love from them to others. And who knows how our adoption of them will affect those around us and them? Only God knows. Now you have a part of our story of how KWI touched our lives.

Meanwhile, if you are a local family who wishes to contribute to KWI through filming, donations or volunteer hours, please contact me via email at rjeremiah2911@embarqmail.com. Thanks. Help start a ripple in your life and that of others today.

WEB DESIGN FOR KIDS AND CURIOUS GROWN-UPS

2009-08-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

This is a copy of a product review that I have posted at my Leaders in Learning Blog. I thought that some of you other writers who are technologically challenged like me might appreciate this review also.

Technologically-Challenged?

I’ve found a web design program that is technically not challenging at all.

As a writer and blogger, I’ve always wanted to learn html. So I purchased a book at a local discount store and even borrowed a few from the library but became disappointed when I felt like I was reading French in a mirror backwards. (The only French I know is my middle name and a Sunday School song.)

So, you can imagine how excited I was to receive a copy of a web design program for kids! I have two kids living at home and was a curious grow-up, so I figured it had to work for me but I was also a nervous, semi-literate html writer. In fact, I knew just enough about html to get myself in trouble.

After I began to watch this DVD, I felt a little better. It is very basic and non-threatening, guiding you step by step, through the stages of designing a web page. The only tools you need to have are the NOTEPAD program, Internet Explorer, your television and a DVD player. Well, maybe there is one more thing you need. You will want your remote control so you can pause the video and practice the lessons. (Alternatively, you can play it on the computer but you’ll have to be a pro at toggling screens).

You will want to keep your eyes on the TV screen or computer monitor as scenes transition between Brian Richardson’s mellow teaching and the computer screens of his equally mild-mannered teenaged students. I enjoyed watching and noting the manners and attitudes of respect shown by the teens as well. We did keep the remote handy so we could freeze the frames and copy the text.

The whole video is low-key and pretty easy to follow. My boys enjoyed watching their works in progress turn up as real webpages featuring their names and everything. The video showed how to create a Word Pad Document and then convert it into a web page. It also taught the kids how to create folders, save to various drives, how to find hidden code on popular web pages and more. Most of the clips were instruction on building the webpages. Both of my boys tried it. One of them was a little frustrated because his computer program was slightly different and we had to fiddle around to figure out how to convert the page to html and back to a WordPad document. Once we figured out how to do it, he jumped right back into designing. I sat with my laptop nearby and played around with the fonts and colors right along with my boys. Sometimes, we got so interested in making the letters scroll, changing the backgrounds and making up our own funny sayings, that we had to stop the movie to get back on track but each clip had enough review on it, that we were able to catch up quickly.

We learned about sandwiches--no, not those kind-my two boys became hungry at the thought of sandwiches, too--stop signs, the use of <> signs as well as how to make text scroll across the page in various directions. (See the title at the top? It's scrolling, aren't you proud of me? )Somehow the code made sense to us when it hadn’t before. I guess it was encouraging to see younger people, with less education than I, able to create and decorate a webpage. It gave me the courage to try it myself and not be intimidated by the computer words and code.

I didn’t get to watch all of the video while my laptop was available(multi-tasking took me away at times), but my boys watched the whole thing with interest.

I hope to spend more time working with the video. I have a lot more to learn from it.

What a great investment! It has a money back guarantee and for the special price of $19.99 (normally $40), a reticent or challenged learner can benefit from a low cost way to try out a potential career/hobby. It’s not for a programming savvy individual but it worked well for my kids and little old me. And who knows? It might be future job training for one of my boys. I can picture him now, making his business cards and brochures and selling people on hiring him to build their web pages.

As far as the quality of the video and acting, well, it was not super-engaging. The few jokes were somewhat flat but as a beginner instructional video, it was not bad. And the author/producer has a good motivation for selling his product. Not only does he want to help you learn to be more technologically skilled BUT also he donates a portion of the price toward charity. You might like to check out what he does and leave a comment. You can read up about that here. http://shinealight.ivillage.com/sbo-profile/?ProfileID=1168

Oh and for the other curious grown-ups: I looked up what HTML stands for—it’s an acronym for: Hyper Text Markup Language. With a name like that, no wonder everyone is shaking in their rhetorical boots. Folks who resemble that remark need to watch this video.

Do I recommend it? You bet. I did learn a lot and my kids enjoyed it as well. It was so easy compared to most other HTML programs and in the end, left me feeling like I actually might be able to play around more with designing web pages. I guess you could say, it takes the “timid” out of “intimidated”.

A TOS CREWMEMBER REVIEW OF THE DVD, “WEB DESIGN FOR KIDS (…AND CURIOUS GROWN-UPS!)” filmed by Brian Richardson

Technical Difficulties

2009-08-24T21:37:00.000-07:00

Rather Be Writing will return after technical difficulties are remedied. Thank you for your patience.

Dr. Wordwielder is Weary

2009-08-19T20:20:00.000-07:00

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Dr. Wordwielder here with your weekly word examination. I shan't be long. I'm a mite bit weary this evening as I've made several trips out in the rain and doing so depletes this old chap of any gumption he might have thought in his possession.

First, I purposed to go to the local library for their annual used book sale in a quest for a few, desired, old faithful books, some of which have been on my wish list for quite some time now, perhaps ten years. I've handled the modern copies but they do not compare to the quality striven for by every business worth it's salt in yesteryear. It was imperative that I not be late for this very important date with alibris, so I skipped breakfast and gobbled down a light nosh of pickled eggs followed by a slice of brown bread. I advanced to my car in hopes that the motorway would not be too cramped. Of course, you know that the weather in Florida is about as fickle as a mood ring and one must prepare for the best and worst to come. I tossed a brolly in the boot even though it was bright and warm from the golden sun. Walking away, I glanced in the rear view as I approached the driver's side. I noted a few bread crumbs in my mustache so I reached up to brush them away, only to accidentally nudge my bi-focals. They fell off my face but I quickly scooped the cap off my woolen head and caught them. To my great surprise, the neighborhood children who were waiting on the arrival of the school bus, must have believed that I was a magician performing a trick, as they giggled and clapped (after a gasp or two). I have to admit, it was a pretty brilliant chance for me to cover up what might have been a fateful accident. I turned and gave a slight bow and then climbed into the vehicle.

As I motored toward the library sale, little droplets of water began to drip onto my windscreen and form into little pools. I turned on my wipers and gave way to the yellow cab that seemed to be out of place in this area and didn't he know it? Perhaps he was from New York or something. He almost ran me off the road, but I was able to right myself and keep on track until I reached the slip road to the adorable village that's name includes the title for Mountain but is really a hill with a few slight curves. At any rate, the precipitation had weakened and I was not too disappointed as I had no way of reaching my protection that was lying by itself in the rear of the car.

The library was as I had hoped it would be, quiet as a museum at night (although I heard someone wrote a movie about strange happenings in one museum). The early bird catches the worm, you know. I stood at the door, awaiting the librarian who came a moment later with the keys. I had not arrived a minute too soon. As we entered the building, cars were motoring up into the lot like ants on honey at a picnic. I mustn't blame them. There were a grand amount of books available. I gazed on a copy of "The Royal Path of Life" by Thomas Haines and company. It was a giant volume containing pages of velum, black and white drawings and advice written in a grandfatherly tone, yielding wisdom as well as debating the issues of contemporary society. I longed to purchase it but pondered the thought of carrying the monstrosity along with me as I browsed the other tables.

The aroma of musty paper wafted o'er the room and to me it was the scent of heaven unleashed. I picked up a copy of John Greenleaf Whittier's poetry, a fine book with an embossed red rose on the front. It contained an autograph on the title page and was addressed to a colleague of his. I ran my fingers across the edges and marveled at how the grainy cover could suddenly feel so smooth over the center of it, as if ribbon with a rose underneath, had been woven in like fabric across the cover. I placed the anthology back down on the table and picked up a plain book that looked like it had been wrapped in a brown paper bag, only it felt more like burlap. It was a copy of Riverside Literature Series Numbers 13 and 14, the Song of Hiawatha, by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Delighted, I opened the book and saw that it was a true find for only $10.00. I snatched it up quickly and proceeded to the cashier, checked out and left. It had always fascinated me to read stories of the Natives in early America and Longfellow was no slouch in the telling of it.

Since the hour is late and since Ms. BeckyJoie has requested that I weigh in on the matter of good literature, I shall forgo the lengthy examination and post but one or two questions. Prior to that, I shall share with you a portion of the book I was able to acquire. I do hope that you will grant a weary old man some forgiveness for an atypical post this eve. This is only an excerpt of the poem titled, "Hiawatha's Friends" in "The Song of Hiawatha". I am posting it in response to Ms. JoJo Tabares weblog article about friendship and what constitutes such. Don't you think that Longfellow does an excellent job of describing Hiawatha's feelings toward friends?

Two good friends had Hiawatha,
Singled out from all the others,
Bound to him in closest union,
And to whom he gave the right hand
Of his heart, in joy and sorrow;
Chibiabos, the musician,
And the very strong man, Kwasind.
Straight between them ran the pathway,
Never grew the grass upon it;
Singing birds, that utter falsehoods,
Story-tellers, mischief-makers,
Found no eager ear to listen,
Could not breed ill-will between them,
For they kept each other's counsel,
Spake with naked hearts together,
Pondering much and much contriving
How the tribes of men might prosper.
Most beloved by Hiawatha
Was the gentle Chibiabos,
He the best of all musicians,
He the sweetest of all singers.
Beautiful and childlike was he,
Brave as man is, soft as woman,
Pliant as a wand of willow,
Stately as a deer with antlers.
When he sang, the village listened;
All the warriors gathered round him,
All the women came to hear him;
Now he stirred their souls to passion,
Now he melted them to pity.
From the hollow reeds he fashioned
Flutes so musical and mellow,
That the brook, the Sebowisha,
Ceased to murmur in the woodland,
That the wood-birds ceased from singing,
And the squirrel, Adjidaumo,
Ceased his chatter in the oak-tree,
And the rabbit, the Wabasso,
Sat upright to look and listen.
Yes, the brook, the Sebowisha,
Pausing, said, "O Chibiabos,
Teach my waves to flow in music,
Softly as your words in singing!"
Yes, the bluebird, the Owaissa,
Envious, said, "O Chibiabos,
Teach me tones as wild and wayward,
Teach me songs as full of frenzy!"
Yes, the robin, the Opechee,
Joyous, said, "O Chibiabos,
Teach me tones as sweet and tender,
Teach me songs as full of gladness!"
And the whippoorwill, Wawonaissa,
Sobbing, said, "O Chibiabos,
Teach me tones as melancholy,
Teach me songs as full of sadness!"
All the many sounds of nature
Borrowed sweetness from his singing;
All the hearts of men were softened
By the pathos of his music;
For he sang of peace and freedom,
Sang of beauty, love, and longing;
Sang of death, and life undying
In the Islands of the Blessed,
In the kingdom of Ponemah,
In the land of the Hereafter.

The vivid language and grammar of this piece is inspiring in a literary and philosophical sense. I simply adore Longfellow's use of poetic devices. For example,
his use of similes and metaphors such as "pliant as a wand of willows", "stately as a deer with antlers" and "spoke with naked hearts together" show his astute knowledge of how to appeal to the interest and intellect of his readers. What eloquent words he uses that we might understand and feel what Hiawatha, the main character feels toward his friends. What magnificent usage of the colour and imagery that evoke in us a sense of our presence in the story. I noticed also that the gentleman used a subtle amount of alliteration. For instance, "teach me tones wild and wayward", "eager ear" and the like. He does employ a set rhythm which engraves the words and details upon the mind of the reader. Not many folks are skilled at the art of using multiple, hyphenated words so close together but Longfellow used them like they were pieces of a song-of course they are-the Song of Hiawatha. "Singing birds, that utter falsehoods, Story-tellers,mischief-makers, Found no eager ear to listen, Could not breed ill-will between them."

Although I am merely skimming the surface, the literary content of Longfellow's poetry is an example from which a good poet and writer can learn much about entertaining the reader and using quality grammatical tools. But I shall have to lecture more at another hour.

The hour is late and I'm rambling as I suppose stodgy old people do. I shan't have another cup of coffee as I need to arise early tomorrow for another round of lectures at the university. So I shall leave you with an abbreviated version of my weekly examination.

Don't forget to post your responses and return again in a day or so for the answers.

Two Questions this week.

1. Hectic or Helpful Homonyms. Which homonym is correct? Two weeks prior to today, I, Dr. William Wordwielder did visit the local book (sellers or cellars).

2. Ideal or Idiotic Idioms. If you make companionship with a fool, you might also be taken for one because as everybody knows, (a. You must never count your chickens before they hatch OR b. Birds of a feather flock together.)

By the way, I neglected to inform you about the results of my audition last Wednesday evening for the church worship ensemble. It appears that my style of vocal expression is not compatible with the music selections used by the choral director for the ensemble but the director was pleased with my audition so that he added an extra chair in the choir itself and placed me in the back to assist the bass and baritone sections as I possess a three octave range and there was no need for another tenor. Thank you all for your interest in my endeavor. I recently heard about another option where I might be able to sing with a collage of singers. For now, I shall retire and wish you all a good night's rest, though as I said it is late and you shall probably read my ramblings on the morrow. Good night. Don't forget to comment. Parting is such sweet, nay, bittersweet sorrow.

What Makes Quality Writing?

2009-08-18T20:40:00.000-07:00

Many of you are aware that I write curriculum and product reviews as a member of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine's Homeschool Review Crew. Well, a product came across my desk last week that I was very excited to receive for review. It is a writing program for children based on quality literature. In a few weeks, I will review it on my Leaders In Learning blog. Click here to favorite that blog: http://www.leadlearners.blogspot.com/.

I've been scouring the pages of this course and finding many things I like about it. One thing it does is to define good quality writing by a list of standards. I agreed with their choices but also thought it could be a bit subjective to make a list like that as various people might think certain qualities are more important in writing and literature.

This thought process led me to post a question on here for my fellow writers. I know you are all fellow readers of good books and magazines. So....

Which characteristics do you feel are important to quality writing? Which are less important? Do they need to be well written or is it acceptable to be a little loose on the grammar as long as the story is interesting? What type of literature is high quality and what is average?

Wondering minds want to know so please leave your answers on in the box AND if you know of someone else who would be interested in voicing their opinion on the matter, please send them here. I would love to know what you all think. I love to learn. Thank you.

Auditions Post/ Answers to Dr. Wordwielder's Quiz

2009-08-17T18:39:00.000-07:00

Dr. Wordwielder here. I do declare that modern technology is oft times a curse. On occasion, I try my hand at typing on these newfangled machines with the Internet attached and discover myself entangled in it's web of treachery. This week I did this to your poor hostess' computer. Ms. BeckyJoie had mentioned to me how she often listens to classical music while penning her thoughts and I heard about a website that would play the music whilst I typed. But to my misfortune, it appeared to inject some sort of "virus" as I'm told into Ms. BeckyJoie's computer causing the letters in the words to reverse such as if it were written by a person diagnosed with dyslexia. It took her a few days to realize what I had done and she was very gracious about the whole ordeal. I do declare that her husband must have been scratching his head a bit over the matter. Our host and hostess sure were baffled. They hustled over to the local office supply establishment and purchased a can of air???? Then they proceeded to spray it all over the keyboard as if trying to blow away the virus. At least, that is how it appeared to me. But alas, the solution was yet to be found. Mr. Oakes ran a deep scan and found the culprit. Now, I shall finally be able to answer the exam questions for you. Here they are:

1. Hectic or Helpful Homonyms. THE CORRECT ANSWER WAS THE LETTER B. AND IT HAS NOTHING IN COMMON WITH INFESTATIONS THAT HOUSEHOLD PETS ACQUIRE, UNLESS YOU CONSIDER THAT THE MATERIALS BROUGHT TO SUCH A MARKET SEEM TO MULTIPLY LIKE FLEAS SCATTERED ACROSS THE GROUNDS. The magnificent model of feminine pulchritude made her way across the green to browse the tables at the ( a. flee, or b. flea) market.

2. Ideal or Idiotic Idioms. THE CORRECT ANSWER IS B. AGAIN. TO OVER-EGG THE PUDDING IS TO SPOIL SOMETHING BY USING TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING WHEREAS TO OVERPLAY ONE'S HAND DENOTES OVERESTIMATION OF ONE'S POSITION OR STRENGTH. When writing descriptive lines in poetry or prose, one must not ( a. overplay one's hand or b. over-egg the pudding). YES, IT WAS RATHER TRICKY, MY FRIENDS.

3. Wise or Wacky Words. THIS TIME THE ANSWER WAS THE LETTER A. The word is affable. Does it mean: a. easy to speak to and gracious OR b. the after effects of laughing.

4. Cute or Comical Coinage. Kiss gate. This term is used quite frequently in England where I lived as a young fellow in my preparatory school days. The Kiss Gate was designed to prevent animals from escaping or entering a location and it consisted of a half door that only one person at a time could pass through, usually, the gentleman would enter first and offer to help the ladies afterward. Often my chums would make their boast about preventing the young ladies from moseying through unless they had first offered a kiss. Of course, I never attempted this with the ladies as I ne'er wished to receive the brunt of their brolly upon my head but some chaps may have succeeded. IT COULD HAVE BEEN EITHER CUTE OR COMICAL. NOW IT IS YOUR TURN TO COIN A PHRASE. LEAVE A COMMENT OR POST A COINED WORD ON YOUR OWN WEBLOG. IF YOU DON'T KNOW HOW TO COIN A WORD OR PHRASE, FEEL FREE TO SHARE THOSE YOU HAVE LEARNED FROM OTHERS.

5. Spelling Slips. Which spelling is correct for the following word: a. nucular OR b. nuclear ? THE ANSWER IS THE LETTER B.

6. Pun Fun. I had found my true soulmate. She and I were both wearing British shoes. WHAT PUNS HAVE YOU BECOME FOND OF HEARING? HAVE YOU USED ANY YOURSELF?

AS YOU MAY BE WONDERING, DUE TO THE TECHNICAL DIFFICULTY WITH WHICH THE HOSTESS' COMPUTER BECAME PLAGUED, I HAVE HAD TO MAKE AN EXTRA TRIP BETWEEN THE UNIVERSITY AND HER HOME. BUT I PROMISE TO RETURN LATER THIS WEEK TO POST ANOTHER EXAM. MEANWHILE, PLEASE TAKE CARE TO SHARPEN YOUR WORDWIELDING SKILLS BY READING YOUR FAVORITE DICTIONARY OR TAKING TIME TO COMPLETE THE WORD SEARCHES IN YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPERS. UNTIL LATER, GOOD BYE FOR NOW.

Dr. Wordwielder Auditions

2009-08-12T18:11:00.000-07:00

Good evening, fine ladies and gentlemen. It is my extreme pleasure to greet you with a story of a fine audition of which I was a participant. Having taken leading Shakespearean roles on stage on occasion as well as having been on tour in a speaking circuit, I only felt it fitting that I once again take to the platform when I heard the musical director of a local church calling for potential participants for the church worship team. I've never done such a thing before but being a proper gentleman desirous of aiding my fellow man, the idea had begun to take root in my heart.

Why, a distinguished professor such as myself, must surely lend assistance to a young chap in his attempts to lead a fledgling flock into green pastures of refined music. At the very least, I wished to influence the clarity of annunciation as I have been noticing the lack thereof in music of a popular persuasion on the Christian radio networks and churches across the country (this chap's choir being much improved over the general public, but one can always improve one's craft, mind you.) It has been my opinion that the quality of music and the quantity of musical training has been gradually degrading itself here over the years since I first arrived here from England. Musicians and vocalists in this day and age do not proceed through the necessary educational rigors that musicians once endured for the quality of their craft. At times, it seems that any old chump might produce a recording and succeed at entering a competition such as the scandalous show on American Televisions which might make an idol out of an ignoramus. But alas, I am over-ruled by the general populace who passes over a musical genius to award recording contracts to a novice. But then again, what do I know? I'm merely a purveyor of prose with an acute aspiration for excellence in all functions of speech, whether they be spoken, musical or written.

A friend of Ms. BeckyJoie's is airing a chat show tomorrow upon the exact topic and desires that you join her and her debonair listeners to discuss the importance of communicating through the language of music. I do believe that our hostess has placed an advert on the side of her blog page so that we might click on it to arrive at the chat show destiny.

But first, I must say that I hope the readers will keep an astute mind about such a matter since so much sensitivity surely surrounds this volatile subject. For example, my very presence at the afore-mentioned audition was greeted with a cold shoulder and a bit of bossiness by the younger set this evening. I suppose that the pronunciation of vowels and consonants in that particular genre of music is quite uncommon these days. But it was my desire to set a sterling standard for symbolic citation by the supervisor of the ensemble for coming contestants over the course of time.

The choral director smiled like a Cheshire cat after I obliged him with a masterful performance of a melismatic segment of Handel's Messiah that I used to deliver to the masses in my voice studies in college. He seemed pleased to make my acquaintance and I have to admit that I've not met a young chap of his caliber in at least a decade or two. I suppose that I shall be called upon to aid him in polishing up the vocals in his Sunday ensemble, but if not, I had a dashing time of it, being back on stage.

I did have one minor problem, though, as my old bones climbed up the stairs to the platform. My trousers were a bit too stiff from all the starch that I had by error, dropped into my laundry last week, when my bifocals had become fogged up by the steam of the rising water in the washing machine. I had a mite of difficulty bending at the knee and began to loose my balance somewhat. Fortunately, I reached for a nearby microphone stand and righted myself pretty quickly, though it did coincide with some squeals and squeaks coming from one of the speakers. The modern conveniences have their advantages but oft can be a smidgen cantankerous from time to time. I do believe, though, that we ironed out the matter significantly by the time I recovered the microphone to sound my resonant tones. When the audition ended, I discovered that I had, in my haste to arrive at the house of worship, forgotten to imbibe a spot of iced tea and to ingest the cold cucumber sandwich that I had prepared to eat along the way. So, I strolled out on the grounds to find a shady limb under which to place myself. After devouring the delightful dinner, I rested for a while, and then climbed into my Mini Cooper and proceeded here for our weekly lesson. Along the drive, I admired the brilliant finish of the paint job I recently had re-touched, reflecting specks of the British racing green across the cabriolet and glistening like sparks of glitter in the setting sun rays. I arrived here safely and tucked my automobile under cover for the remainder of the night as the Oakes have generously offered the use of their guest room this week because of my previous mishaps late at night in the Florida rain storms.

I am grateful once again for your faithfulness to attend my online classes and for Ms. BeckyJoie who so graciously offers her blog every week. I could not imagine trying to circumnavigate the world wide web in order to create a blog for myself. I once attempted the evil feat and became maddeningly overwhelmed. Thus, I shall leave the technological triumphs to another more adept while I shall continue to bring the excellence in accelerated English eloquence.

Speaking of the art of eloquence, I have been unable to shake the impression of the English Rose whose voice attracted my attention last week. I was transported, whether in reality or my thoughts, from my presence at the Barnes and Noble Book Sellers Establishment to the celestial realms where she seemed to naturally find her place in a blanket of brilliant light. The sound of her voice echoed through it like an opera singer at Carnegie Hall. Though I never had the pleasure of viewing her angelic countenance, I am quite certain that her radiance must be of no equal comparison. Might I have known her from another realm or from my place of origin? Only time will tell but I have not been able to erase her memory from my mind. But I shall try, for it is only once in a lifetime that one meets a lady with such enchanting elocution and it is unlikely that I shall be able to be graced by her presence again, save some miraculous intervention. So, I shan't indulge in the monotony of the retelling of the saga but thus, proceed to this week's agenda at Rather Be Writing.

For today's lesson, we shall answer the following questions. Feel free to leave your own comments and suggestions in the box below marked "comments".

1. Hectic or Helpful Homonyms. The magnificent model of feminine pulchritude made her way across the green to browse the tables at the ( a. flee, or b. flea) market. Choose one.

2. Ideal or Idiotic Idioms. When writing descriptive lines in poetry or prose, one must not ( a. overplay one's hand or b. over-egg the pudding). Choose one.

3. Wise or Wacky Words. The word is affable. Does it mean: a. easy to speak to and gracious OR b. the after effects of laughing.

4. Cute or Comical Coinage. Kiss gate. This term is used quite frequently in England where I lived as a young fellow in my preparatory school days. The Kiss Gate was designed to prevent animals from escaping or entering a location and it consisted of a half door that only one person at a time could pass through, usually, the gentleman would enter first and offer to help the ladies afterward. Often my chums would make their boast about preventing the young ladies from moseying through unless they had first offered a kiss. Of course, I never attempted this with the ladies as I ne'er wished to receive the brunt of their brolly upon my head but some chaps may have succeeded.

NOTE: I shall add two more categories for this week alone and they may appear again at random. This shall serve to keep the readers alert and searching for new words to leave in the comment box.

5. Spelling Slips. Which spelling is correct for the following word: a. nucular OR b. nuclear ?

6. Pun Fun. I had found my true soulmate. She and I were both wearing British shoes.

Now, my friends it is your turn. Try your hand at the examination. It is an open book test, so retrieve your dictionary and thesaurus and search away. Don't forget to leave your answers for the rest of us to view in the comments department. Also, leave us a link to follow you back to your weblog or post. In that way, we can find you more easily. I shall post the answer in the next couple of days.

Cherio, my chums!

Clean Your Plate, Mate!

2009-08-11T22:03:00.000-07:00

Did your Grandmother or mother ever say this to you? "Clean your plate. There are many children over in Africa and other lands that would love to eat that food." I used to think to myself, Well, then give it to them!

Funny, though it is now upon looking back, there was a point to be made. Let nothing go to waste.

The truth is that in the American diet, much food goes to waste, one way or another. It either is wasted or goes to one's waist! Americans have an abundance of food. Just compare the serving sizes in local restaurants with the "daily recommended" portions and you will see a huge gap already, let alone seeing what people in other countries have to eat. And the leftover-food bins at fast food restaurants here are full of fare that could be better used (even just as compost) and not thrown away. Of course, in the southern states this might promote bug infestation issues BUT...I'm sure there is some way to use that leftover food and not waste it. Some college cafeterias used to give away the extra scrapings to local farmers for their pigs.

"Waste not" has been applied to food but what about words? Are there any old manuscripts just sitting around in a notebook wasting away because you either gave up on them or never submitted them in the first place? I know I have some. Those words took great amounts of time to accumulate and they aren't going anywhere on their own. Some of them, perhaps might not find any suitable place but the circular file (IE. rubbish can). Yet, other manuscripts could perhaps be re-written and sent to another publishing venue. But why let them all go to waste?

Christian writers, did you know that the Bible tells us that we shall give an account for every idle word? (Matthew 12:36). Wow, I have too many to account for. The word idle comes from the Greek word, ARGOS which means "not busy, idle, inactive, doing nothing, and sterile." OUCH!

The word account is derived from the Greek word, APODIOMI which means to "give an answer."

This is an intriguing revelation of the power of words. Other passages say that death and life are in the power of the tongue--meaning that our words are not just words. They need to serve a purpose and accomplish something. So, does this mean that it is a sin for someone to use humor in speech and writing? Some people might try to say that about comedy because "it serves no good purpose" and is full of silly words. Are these people right? Does comedy serve a purpose?

Proverbs 17:2 tells us, "A merry heart does good like a medicine but a broken spirit dries the bones." In other words, words of humor can bring healing to a person whether it be to a soul or the person's health. I am living proof. When deep in the throws of Systemic Lupus several years ago, I immersed myself in the Bible, praise music, healthy life choices and HUMOR! The last item was a HUGE part of my healing, I believe. I rented videos from the library (sending someone to get them for me) or watched them on Dish Network or the Internet. Here's a glimpse of the comedy I watched every day: I Love Lucy, Mark Lowry, Ken Davis, Chonda Pierce, Bananas Comedy, Dennis Swanburg, Bob Smiley and many other TV Comedy Classics. Humor uplifted me and brought me out of the "doldrums" as my dad used to call it.

So, if idle words are not referring to humor, then to what could they refer? I believe it refers, in part to words which are either said without thought and/or words that are not given the right venue to be heard and are thus wasted words. You may feel free to do your own research on what this means but for me, I take it as a warning to make use of the words that God allows me as a writer to use. I plan to think more before speaking and writing as well as to dig out my old manuscripts and see if I can salvage anything to be used for a good purpose.

As a person gifted with gab, I need to take more time to think before acting and to use the gift to the best of my ability so as not to have any idle words. In other words, I don't want to waste time talking about things that are not profitable to anyone but to write quality work with an intended purpose. Even if I have to ramble to find those words, the words I publish or speak aloud will be used to the fullest extent possible, with God's help. This is my prayer.

Well, perhaps it is reflective of the hour in which I wrote this (IE. late at night) or it may just be that the Lord is speaking to me louder through His Words so I will finally "get it". I know I will mess up here and there. That is inevitable. I just pray that I will make more of my words count than ever before, even the words that could sit in the "waste" basket. One man's junk is another man's treasure. So pull out that manuscript you have up trying to publish and find something salvageable in it. I aim to do the same. Let's come back in a few weeks and compare notes, okay?

P.S. There is another application. Good cooks prepare food with the highest number of nutritional calories without any unessentials because they want their food to be utilized by the body and not turned into fat or waste. Writer's strive also to write their message in the least amount of words possible while using the strongest verbs and fewer adjectives and adverbs. They don't want to waste words and make readers miss the message while choking on the extraneous words. Just a thought and a challenge to us all. Please leave your comments on this. What do you do with your leftover words or manuscripts that did not pass the critique or editor test? Do you waste them? Or find some words to remake into another story? I'm curious to know if you are like me or not. Do I have any others on the same wavelength here?

Song Writing

2009-08-08T19:53:00.000-07:00

My intention lately for weekend posts have been to bring info that is particularly helpful to Christian writers since this is a unique market that other writers are not drawn towards and there is not as much information about it available. This also is applicable because "Christian" runs through me like a deeply woven thread and I can't help myself sometimes. I try not to be too pushy because I don't desire that my blog become offensive, but my nature is my nature and I am a proclaimer of truth and faith. I also like to hear preaching so if I offend you, I'm sorry.

Last week, I posted the Greatest Interview for a Christian Writer (based on Peter's Interview with Jesus), not having seen the following video. How ironic that I should find a clip from one of my favorite worship songwriters this evening while looking for videos about writing for God.

It kind of packs a double whammy for me as one who grew up in the faith in a family that travelled performing on public stages with music, drama and puppetry. My brother is a singer/songwriter and seeing him take a journey of his own to Nashville recently, has stirred up long, lost desires to do something similar. This may not be the case for most writers, but for me, the musician and writer are somewhat interwoven. I've written and recorded two of my own songs while on a curriculum writing project for children. I've also sung on recordings with several groups in the past, either a solo or part of a group. I took classical voice but also sing a variety of musical styles. Deep in my heart, I've always loved worship music and have attempted to write some myself. So this next clip is a great find for me. I hope it is for you. Here is Phil Wickham on the topic of how he wrote the song, "Grace" taking inspiration from the Bible.

I know this affects me as a Christian writer in a way that means I will never be the same again.

Dr. Wordwielder's Mysterious Encounter

2009-08-06T19:59:00.000-07:00

A Word from Dr. Wordwielder:

Greetings, my friends!

Please accept my deepest regrets for my lack of punctuality in arriving at Rather Be Writing. For some unknown reason, I've developed a bit of brain fog over the last ten hours.

You see, I had completed my lessons and extra-curricular reading activities at the university library over an hour earlier than usual and so I had purposed in my heart to make an excursion to my local Barnes and Noble Booksellers establishment. The motivation for doing so was to acquire for myself a copy of the magazine, Etymology Today, where I had published an article called, “Colloquialism, The Root of Linguistic Morphology.”

Prior to leaving the university, I had received a telephone call from Ms. BeckyJoie to inform me that she was having a bit of schedule overload; what, between her new work with the non-profit organization, her review-writing job and some family distress, she requested that I postpone my visit until this evening. I was happy to oblige as it had been nearly a month since my last visit to the shelves of the celestial book hall and bistro. So I retired forthwith to Barnes and Noble.

When I arrived at my destination, I was delighted to hear that the public address system was alternating between selections of my most favored musicians, the classical composer, Mozart and the Big Band legend, Glen Miller. I felt at home, once again, with the enticing scent of fresh ink and new paper, which had comforted me from my early childhood visits to the library and bookstores. I began skimming the assortment of reading fare that lined up on the shelves as I passed through to the news department. I noted the 2010 volumes of the Writer's Market Guide and Poet's Market were freshly set in rows and still wrapped in plastic. I latched on to a copy of each and tucked them into my satchel, continuing toward the magazine rack.

There it was-of crisp copy of Etymology Today. I surveyed the pages until I found my article, wanting to make sure that the editor left my precious manuscript intact. I noted that there were no errors. The information in the document is vital to the maintenance of the English language. I oft chance to hear the deterioration of our distinguished lingua mater when a youngster verbalizes that he likes to stand around and be cold with his friends. He ought at least to put the 'g' in "chilling". And once, in the hallways of the university, a group of young men were running through like herds of cattle when one of them barged into me.

“My bad,” he said.

I was waiting for him to finish the sentence. “My bad...mistake.” “My bad... aim” or something like that but he stopped--short--at the word “bad”.

Why! Just yesterday, I was meandering through the parking lot and a sports vehicle scurried in right behind me. A gaggle of girls came running to the driver's side door yelling, “Oh! Sweet!”

I looked to see if there was a box of chocolates in the hands of the fellow but for the life of me, I could only see a bag of books. Young people these days!

So I was pleased when the magazine editor accepted my query about writing an article on the dangers of using colloquialism in communication. I sent him a piece the next week after he replied to my letter. That reminds me, I need to address him with a note of extreme appreciation for his ability to publish my article. For it was no sooner said than done. (But I need to return to my explanation of last evening.)

The intense summer temperatures spawned my salivary glands to seek out satisfaction in the form of a refreshing libation. I promptly obeyed my inner urgings and approached the bistro where I took nary a minute to convey my directive to the clerk behind the counter. “Yes, Miss, I'm mighty fine, thank you. And I would like to order a triple iced caramel latte with a dash of fresh cream and hazelnut and a stick of cinnamon. Thank you. And how much will that be?”

The young woman announced the amount and while I awaited the delivery of my chilled potable, I paid the bill for it, for my books and the magazine. Then seated myself in a corner booth to attain some solitude . The drink was surely refreshing. The whipped cream was thicker than I had remembered it and I must have looked a fright while wiping it out of my mustache and off of my nose for a youngster passing by with his mother stopped to stare at me a moment. I didn't appreciate it much as I felt that children ought to be taught not to stare at their elders but I couldn't blame him for the way I must have appeared so I looked away and began to rummage through my satchel for a pen and my reading glasses.

I had been sitting there for somewhere about the period of ten minutes when I heard a voice that pierced through me as if it were a long, lost familiar connection from my birthplace in England. I could not quite place it but I listened, hoping to recall the exact tone of voice in order that I might make the acquaintance more sure in my mind.

As I couldn't recollect the sound, I raised my head to peer around behind me to where a group of ladies sat around a table, apparently discussing a book. One by one, I heard them critique a line or two and tell why the book meant so much to them. I thought to myself that this was quite the unusual gathering for women of this caliber as I had not seen a book club or a writer's association in this town in quite some time, unless of course, you would count the students in my after school study hall.

Then I heard the voice again. It was as lovely as a nightingale, sweet and sing-songy like that of none I had ever heard before. I startled slightly but then shook off the shivers that had risen up new goose bumps on my arms. Why was I feeling so out of the ordinary? Perhaps I had caught this chillin' bug with which the young men were so fond of claiming association. Whatever it was, I had to see who the voice emanated from like the music of a violin echoing through Carnegie Hall. I stole a furtive glance in the general direction of the table, but all I could see, sticking up above her book, was the brim of a purple velvet hat and a large, plum, silk ribbon which adorned it. I sighed and attempted to return my attention to my new market guides and for a few moments, I perused the pages when all of a sudden, I heard the voice again.

“Dahling, the coffee was simply a delectable treat and the ambrosial cheesecake was simply enchanting. Above all, I adored keeping company with you, Madeline. Charming, for certain, my dear.”

I turned and she was passing by my table. I tried to catch a glimpse but just as I gazed in her direction, her pocket book slipped from her shoulder and she scooted down in the opposite direction to retrieve it.
When she stood again, the other ladies had gathered around and they began to exit the store.

I didn't know what to do. I didn't want to alarm anyone, but I could have sworn by George that I had heard that voice once before. I didn't dare to follow her to the parking lot. I did not think it a wise nor ethical thing for a gentlemen of my stature to do, but I thought perhaps I could stand in the window and pretend to be looking at the Florida skies for signs of weather. Was she an angel from heaven or a long lost friend from my former country. I did not know and never could tell as she chatted from the midst of the women's circle all the way to her vehicle, which looked to be a rental but one could not tell. It was apparent that I would not be able to ascertain her identity but her voice has haunted me ever since. I think I heard them calling her something like Ms. Smith but I couldn't be quite certain. Anyway, I returned to my table and gathered up my belongings. I had to make sure that my lesson for Rather Be Writing was in order and ready to bring to you this evening.

Now, that I have gotten that off my chest, I shall turn my attention to the purpose for which I have arrived at Rather Be Writing. Here is this week's lesson:

1. Hectic or Helpful Homonyms. The breadbaker beat the (doe or dough) before inserting it into the pan and then the oven.

2.Ideal or Idiotic Idioms. The young lady who won the cherry pie eating contest was wearing (A. a Freudian slip or B. a cheshire cat grin).

3. Wise or Wacky Words. Magnanimus. Does it mean? A. a large magnetic object OR B. generous and noble.

4. Comical or Cute Coinages. Brain dead. Although this word is a medical term which means to be have no life signs in one's brain while on the brink of death, it is now commonly used also to describe a person who is not using their brain to think and reason. What coined phrases can you create or do you often hear used? Kindly send your answers to this weblog.

Thank you Ms. Oakes, for allowing me to come once again to your blog and post. I shall look forward to reading everyone's answers as they post them to their own weblogs and link back here with a comment letting us know where you have posted your guesses and a coined word. I shall deliver the correct answers to you a few days hence.

The Ultimate Interview for the Christian Writer

2009-08-02T14:37:00.000-07:00

Scenario--Jesus and The Writer exchange some heavy dialogue.
Time- Between Midnight and 5 am Saturday morning.
Place- At the Laptop, after prayer and Bible Study.

Jesus: Writer/Enterpreneur, do you care about Me more than these words?
Writer: Ya, I like you. You know that.
Jesus: Well, then, give my sheep some food.

(Writer opens the online thesaurus and selects a few words. Nothing seems to fit the sentence in the manuscript. Writer tries again and a word pops out like an epiphany. It's so much fun to write. Writer never felt more fulfilled. Silence.)

Jesus: Christian Author, do you care about me?
Writer: (Deep breath). Of course, you already know that I care about you.

(Writer glances at the New Testament that was part of morning devotions and then back to the computer screen. Silence again.)

Jesus: So you love me, huh? Then, tend and look after my sheep.
Writer: Sigh.

(Another Twenty minutes have passed. The paper is filled with notes. The Word document has ten paragraphs written. Writer is excited about the ideas but puzzled at Jesus' words. A still, small voice intrudes on Writer's thoughts.)

Jesus: Word-whittler, do you love me?

Writer: Yes, Jesus. Can't you tell that I'm fond of you? Don't you know by now?

Jesus: If you love me, then take my sheep to graze on the food I want them to have.

(Writer bites the end of the pencil then drops it with a thud onto the desk. What does this all mean?)

Jesus: Disciple, follow me.

Writing Brochures and Business Cards, Part 1

2009-07-31T21:58:00.001-07:00

Ok--this is out of the ordinary, but you ought to expect that coming from me. LOL. I know there are some technical writers out there or people in advertising who would love to share their tips on brochure writing.

Would anyone else be interested?

Whether or not we like it, writers need sales tools, too. If you are writing for your own business, for book publishers or for a business where you are employed, at some point, you are going to need business cards, brochures or at least a web page to advertise or represent your business.

What should you say or not say? How should you say it? Do you pay a professional advertiser to write it for you or create it yourself? How do you determine the best way to write it? Do finances play a part in your choice? Or do you purchase what you need, believing that this is the cost of advertising which you eventually will recover through the business you receive?

On your brochures, do you ask the usual questions as hooks? I.E. "Are you looking for...?" or "Are you tired of...?" Are they trite buzz words? Enquiring minds want to know.

Through the business endeavors I encounter, I am learning a variety of writing styles that I never thought I would need or want to try. I'm "loving" it!

I'm a life long learner of all things. Aren't you? Life never ceases to amaze me. I wouldn't pretend to but I desire to know it all. Maybe it's that strong New England spirit or the entrepreneur in me. I have to find answers to every question about everything I want to learn.

Why wonder when you can use the world wide web to find the information you need? Here are two articles about writing business handouts.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Brochure-Writing---Seven-Tips-For-Better-Brochures&id=1635843
http://www.lbprintery.net/Services/writing-designing-brochure.htm

If you are really brave, then watch this educational video clip where the speaker (with a heavy northern accent, by the way) teaches us how to use MS Word to create a basic brochure. It takes a few minutes to watch and is perhaps not as modern and flashy as desirable, but it contains simple, step-by-step instruction for the average person to learn how--so stick with it until the end of the clip. You'll like it.

Most important of all, readers, I want to know what you think about the subject. What has worked for you? How do you feel about the topic? Are there any potential guest bloggers in the audience who would like to add their expertise on this subject?

Dr. Wordwielder's Wordsmithing Woa's

2009-07-29T21:22:00.000-07:00

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, I regret to inform you that my visit to Rather Be Writing last week was diverted due to circumstances beyond my control.

You see, last Wednesday evening, I was sitting in my customary location on the Davenport in the university library. I was reading through the B entries in my Oxford New English Dictionary when the lines in my bifocals appeared to blur and the words on the page began to fade and then after that I do not recall anything for a while.

All of a sudden, I was startled by a cacophonous CRASH. I arose from my seat to see what was the matter. Oh, wait, that's not me. (Well, I must have been reading too much of Clarke Moore's poetry to my classes that day.) Suffice it to say, my dear friends, that the sound with which I became enlivened, resembled that of a gun shot. I feared that one of the drama students had gotten carried away in the auditorium nearby. But upon closer examination, I discovered no students nor staff members remained in the wing where I had taken up temporary refuge. It puzzled me greatly how such a boisterous boom could come from a seemingly empty building. I wandered from hall to hall when ZAP!!! At that very moment, a white flash of light flooded the air outside the Science laboratory where I expected to find the source of the explosion which had startled me. My left hand stretched toward the counter for stability and I peered over the rim of my spectacles but saw nothing. In fact, I seemed to have lost my visual senses. After a momentary lapse, the discovery that I was enveloped in a pervasive absence of light gave me pause for consideration. I needed to find a way out of the laboratory and into the hallway where I could use my cane to tap along the surface of the wall and circumnavigate the facilities to the exit.

Of course, I remained calm but plotted my response in the event that I should run into the hoodlums who had caused such an offense in order to rob or vandalize the university. My suspicions were that it was a fraternity prank but one could never be certain. It might even be a group of terrorists. I deduced that, even in the shadows, I would have an advantage over the young whipper snappers. Having been employed for so many years of my career at EEIEA, I knew the campus like the back of my hand. There had been many a day where I roamed the hallways reading J. R. R. Tolkien or C.S. Lewis while circumventing the crowds of students who stood chatting in the hallway between classes. I could certainly find my way around better than anyone I knew.

I felt my way out of the room with my cane while clutching the classwork and dictionary in my right hand. I could always use the massive volume as a decoy should the need arise by casting it in the opposite direction of my escape path to lure my assailants away long enough to evade apprehension. I proceeded with caution but also stood erect in order to appear invincible in the event that the criminals had donned night vision equipment.

As I left the room, I was delighted to be greeted by battery-powered emergency lighting in the hallway, leaving shadows distinguishable enough to lower my cane. I advanced with ease toward the visitor's office where I would attempt to locate the telephone and contact the constabulary authorities. As I placed my armload on the chair just inside the doorway, I froze. There, standing in the window behind the desk ,hiding behind the draperies was one of the intruders. The window was open and a breeze flowed through or I might not have seen his shadow wavering back and forth. I crouched and tried to crawl around the edge of the desk so as not to alert him to my presence but years ago, I had injured my right meniscus in an ice storm when visiting an educational conference in Boston. I gasped but was able to stifle it, then proceeded to tip toe with my weapon in hand. As I approached, I raised my cane as high into the air as I could and applied the force of a belly club as I swung. My cane caught in the drapery and tangled up, knocking me off-kilter into the desk behind me where I apparently landed on the button for the intercom and heard my voice echo through the building. “Take thattttttt!” I heard as I struggled to untangle my cane. I pulled it back behind my head and then thrust it toward the window again hoping to strike him but just at that precise moment, the lights came on and blinded me. Reflections on my bifocals prevented my eyes from focusing but then my vision was restored enough to see my victim in full spectrum light. There stood a graduation gown with a pair of the administrator's Florsheims on the floor beneath. It was apparent that a graduating senior had just returned his gown to the office and the secretary had inadvertently left the window open and left it hanging there after closing the draperies.

I was never so undignified in my entire life and realized that I must be in need of some suspended somnolence. I was fortunate to be the only staff member in the building as the security personnel had already retired for the evening assuming that I would make my usual after hours exit and secure the building myself. For this, I was grateful. I stepped forward to seal the aperture and discovered the source of the power outage as a bolt of lightening darted in the distant horizon. The generator back-up timer had tripped after the electricity had been affected by a lightening strike somewhere on the campus. I glanced around and noticed that there was not a sign of combustion in the atmosphere at all so I exited the building and meandered to my vehicle. In all the chaos, I must have left my lesson for you on the desk in the visitor's office but I did not want to become a lightening rod in the lonely parking lot so I scurried into the driver's seat and attempted to drive away into the storm. I thought, perhaps that I might arrive on time but as I continued my journey toward your home, the clouds darkened and the floodgates of heaven prevailed to penetrate the road with horrific hail. I feared that being in Florida, I might be on the outskirts of a hurricane or tornado but had no choice but to continue as I could hardly see the boundaries of the road. Eventually, I arrived upon the edge of my driveway but as it was approaching Two o' clock in the morning,I presumed that you would already be in your bedstead and not appreciate a guest at that hour. I beg upon your mercy for forgiveness of my rude behavior to have not kept my word on traveling to your residence last Wednesday and I hope that your readers have used the week of my absence as an opportunity to study the incredible linguistic lecture which I had deposited here upon my last visit to Rather Be Writing.

This week's lesson shall consist of the following:

1. Hectic or Helpful Homonyms? Choose the correct homonym to place in this old song. “I may never ride in a ___________ but I'm in the Lord's army.” Is it: a. calvary OR b. cavalry.

2. Ideal or Idiotic Idioms? When the utility bill came, it made my___________ because it was so elevated. CHOOSE ONE: a. blood run cold OR b. blood boil.

3. Wise or Wacky Words? Sanguine. Does it mean: a. happy, optimistic OR b. an object containing sparkly sequins?

4. Comical or Cute Coinage? Evoktional may be defined as: to create or do something that will evoke a response from someone. The word also denotes a devotional quality to the response that is evoked. The first time I became aware of this word is when Ms. BeckyJoie's brother, Ray Thombs, Jr. used it to describe his common mode of operation in human relationships. Dear Readers, coined words are rather an addiction to me as a professor and philologist, so if you could kindly humor me a bit and send me your coinages this week via email or a post, it would be ever-fulfilling for me to peruse.

In fact, this week, please do not post your answers here on this weblog but instead, record them on a page elsewhere such as Facebook, Twitter or your personal weblog.

Then come to this page and leave the address or location where we may find your answer. I shall leave the quiz answers with your host to announce at a later time in the next day or so. Thank you so much for understanding my plight last week and I appreciated your consideration and forgiveness.

The time has arrived when I may need to vacate the residence of my hostess but I shall return again soon. I've been very busy lately and a bit scattered so if I do not appear on time, I please to beg your pardon. Nonetheless, whether or not I am present, I shall not neglect to deliver the lessons to Ms. BeckyJoie so that she may be able to publish them for all of her readers to study and memorize. For now, I bid you goodwill and good night. Until we meet again....

Post Script: Don't forget to answer the exam questions.

Facebook, Twitter and Youtube

2009-07-28T19:42:00.000-07:00

Have you heard the pitter patter of people roaming around deep in Twitter Chitter Chatter? Have you considered putting your face up next to your thoughts on Facebook? How about putting the You into Youtube?

I've realized for a while now, what wonderful devices these were but I had not been taking full advantage of them. Both my brother, Ray and my friend JoJo alerted me to what some experts are saying about using such tools so I went online to hear the scoop.

According to Twitter Guru, Perry Belcher, social media tools are powerful items for writers and business people. Many people think they do not have time or that these are merely time-wasting devices. I've been "razzed" for my own obsession with communication via social media networks. When I do something, I do it full force. I'm learning to find the balance between playing with it and communicating as a business person and friend. That's the key.

As David Alston puts it, "Social media is not a media. [The key is to listen, engage, and build relationships.]" The people on your networks are not only your audience, but they are first, your friends.

Not only has using these tools helped me as a writer but it has grown me as a friend, family member and homeschooling mom to build a community with people about whom I care. Connecting me with people from states all over the USA, my list contains family members and friends who live far away, locals with whom I share everyday parts of my life and new friends with whom I've become acquainted from public interaction or via the web. Fewer still are my business connections. All are important to me and teach me many things.

As well, my children are learning communication skills when they sit next to me and I model for them how to interact with people. So, I'm not only playing with the social media tools--think again! I'd also like to exhort you with this: don't knock them as a waste of time, unless you are so addicted to them that you can't live your life. They don't have to rule you. That's your choice. Just don't diminish their importance to you as a person or a writer. And don't belittle them because you feel a sense of guilt that you ought to be doing something else instead of "wasting time". Communicating with real people is never a waste of time.

While Facebooking and Twittering can be addictive--don't I know it?-- they can also be useful for connecting with readers and forming relationships with real people. They can be a great platform to share your ideas and provoke reactions. Balance is the key. Choose your words wisely.

(NOTE TO FELLOW CHRISTIANS: I have done a large amount of ministry via FACEBOOK chat's and IM's as well as emails. I'm not saying this to elevate myself as it is God who brought MANY people to me for help. I am thankful that He did. I just want you to think out of the box here about social media tools. They aren't just for silly teenage ramblings and tangents of over-tired women like myself, although that certainly does add entertainment factors into the mix.)

One thing that I find appealing about Twitter is that you are limited to a few words and characters so that you really have to think about word choices before posting. It's great for practice in concise speech. Facebook gives you more story room but yet, not as much as a blog. I'm still trying to figure out how to network them, but so far, the experience of each is enjoyable.

Youtube is another free networking tool, giving you the opportunity to let readers get to know you and feel a connection with your message and personality. One blogger "friend" of mine, parodied a song and sang it over Youtube and received umpteen zillion hits. She went from having many readers to having an abundance of followers as her funny video made it's way around blogworld. Of course caution must be taken that a professional or well planned monologue be presented or it could mean ruin for your business. Never do anything on "too much a whim". It could get you in trouble. On the other hand, the most successful people take risks and shoot from the hip at times, too.

In closing, let's examine the follow quotes from a man whose words come from experience and success.

Who said these words?

"I think it's fair to say that personal computers have become the most empowering tool we've ever created. They're tools of communication, they're tools of creativity, and they can be shaped by their user."

Correction

2009-07-28T05:17:00.000-07:00

I accidentally posted that Dr. Word Wielder will arrive here this evening, but that was an error. He will arrive at Rather Be Writing late Wednesday evening. I suppose with all the new happenings, I was so excited about him coming again that I wanted to bring him early. Oops.

Questions, Answers and Bloggy Referrals

2009-07-27T08:36:00.000-07:00

Do you like having your mind stimulated by other writers and their ideas? I do. I think I fell in love with the concept of blog quizes and questions. I like the whole idea of memes too but I tweak them and make my own up too. (If you haven't noticed.)

Today's blogpost will take you to some other writers that I like to read. Some I have met and know, while others I've only met online or met recently. Nonetheless, these are some of the interesting sites that I frequent. I wanted to share them with you so that you can have your mind stirred as well.

A friend of mine who I love dearly and have been priviledged to get to know over the internet is a talented well-known author and speaker. Today, JoJo Tabares has posted on her blog a question about a photograph of an animal (amongst other thought provoking material). See if you can figure out what animal she has on a photograph. http://artofeloquence.com/blog/what-is-it/ Note: I post her blog address often as we are such kindred spirits and I spend alot of time reading up on what she does best: communication.

Another blogger of whom I am a new acquaintence has written a quiz that will take some of you down memory lane. I like the name of his blog. It is "From The Book of the Wise and the Foolish". On his Facebook account, he posts alot of writings from his "RSVP to God". Ask him about it and sign up to follow his blog. (He needs some followers as he has interesting things to say.) http://ronaldrichardson.blogspot.com/2009/07/and-away-we-go.html

One personal friend and fellow writer from whom I gain a great deal of inspiration is the leader of Clermont Christian Writer's Group, a many times published author at Chicken Soup for the Soul is Terri Tiffany. She always posts great questions to get you thinking as well as sharing her down to earth tales of her life as an author.
http://http//terri-treasures.blogspot.com/

Another new Facebook friend wrote a wonderful Psalm on her blog. It's the sort of thing that Leaders in Learning likes to post on Sundays. But Cindy Holman posts them at random which is a blessing to her readers. You can read her poems and other cute stories at: www.cindyholman.wordpress.com

Well enough of a goose chase. I love to write and I love my writing friends. I like to let them have the stage once in a while. They are inspirational to me.

Come back tomorrow as Dr. Word Wielder brings you his next message in an unusual way. I can't wait to see him soon and I'm sure you can't either. See you tomorrow night.

Karen Kingsbury

2009-07-25T19:23:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow being Sunday, I thought I would post an article from the CBN website about Christian Fiction Writer, Karen Kingsbury. Several of my writer friends claim her as their favorite authoress and I happen to like her too. I can relate to some things she says about life and her experiences.

There's a great story about her journey in writing, weight loss, and more. Also, you can watch a video of the interview here:

http://www.cbn.com/700club/guests/bios/Karen_Kingsbury_020108.aspx

Let me know what you think. Oh, see if you can find the strange request her wannabe date suggested doing before a movie. Also, what is the life decision(s) Ms. Kingsbury shares with the author of Rather Be Writing? Come back and leave the answers here in a comment.

Writing from a Bubble

2009-07-24T13:47:00.000-07:00

You know those little bubbles that comic strip characters have popping up from their heads to describe their thoughts? Well, I feel like I'm caught in one this week. Every time, except for once, that I tried to write anything, I either had an interruption or a semi-tragic event occur. (Bread burning in the kitchen, spilled food or drink by the kids, a knock at the door by someone who needed me to come right away, a phone call, and numerous other things.)

OR

I've tried to write about something but had too many thoughts that were taking different directions and

THEN...

I had yesterday's calamity. Read about it here: www.leadlearners.blogspot.com

To quote a song, "so I'll let my words be few". Come back after I find my way out of the comic strip bubble. I will have something more intelligent to say.

Until then, maybe I could just be comic relief in the story of life.

Rejection Rejection Letters

2009-07-17T22:54:00.000-07:00

Rejection, rejection. It's a writer's worst enemy or is it? What can you do about rejection?

When I was an awkward teenager and the brunt of many children's sarcasm, my heart wore a sign that said "kick me for a reaction". Words of wisdom from my mother were, "Consider the source and forget it." If I could only have done that through my life, I might have done more good in the world. But these words to the yet unwise did not sink in until my adulthood after much pain and suffering.

While it's important to have your work critiqued, writers also need to view rejection through grace-colored glasses. What are the cardinal rules of criticism?

1. Consider the source. Is the source qualified to give counsel on the piece? How does this source's perspective affect his or her opinion?

2. If the source is qualified to critique and has a valid suggestion, open your ears and listen. Don't be stuck on your ideas and words so much that you elevate yourself as a diva or divo and relegate all others as inferior.

3. If your source is not qualified or has a world view that conflicts with yours, then take their criticism with a grain of salt. Apply any truth that you see (often when mud is flung, some will stick) and then bind your wounds and keep moving toward your goal. Don't wallow in the quagmire of self-pity. Redeem whatever you can and make it work. Otherwise move on to another idea.

4. Remember that God-ordained things have a destiny. Sometimes it is just not the season for the words you write or speak. When the time is right, if you are open to the possibilities and led by faith, the piece that was rejected will find it's way to the forefront. "Be not weary in well doing for in due season, you shall reap if you faint not." Galatians 6:9

5. Guard your attitude toward rejection. "You can please some of the people some of the time but you can't please all of the people all of the time." It is inevitable that rejection will come but we can't take it to heart too much. It will only defeat us. The other day after hearing about someone who applied for a car loan and received multiple rejections from banks, I decided to do reflect on what he did. He wrote rejection letters to those who rejected him. ) Caution. These letters ought never to be sent but to be shredded upon writing. They are done for the express purpose of catharsis only.

Here is what I would imagine a writer to put down on paper.

Dear Publisher,

You are only the 25th company to reject my submission in the last three months and I want you to know that I reject your rejection letter because published authors in the past have suffered hundreds of rejection letters before anyone with any sense had discovered that their words were gold. Surely, my manuscript is what you and every other editor wants to publish and you have somehow sent this letter in error.

Signed, My Circular File is Now a Boomerang. Thank you.

Or:

Dear Readers,

Perhaps you mistook me for my writing double, the hate mongerer, for surely if you listened to what I have posted, you will understand that my intent was to encourage and inspire and that I season my speech and writings with grace on purpose. Therefore, the rejection you are sending me in this complaint letter is to be placed under the "Complaint Department button", the trigger of a baited mouse trap, in Christian love of course.

Sincerely, Wounded Writer.

Of course, this is not really the attitude of a grace-filled Christian writer but there is an element of truth in my sarcasm. We must learn to look at rejection through the eyes of faith.

Here is the attitude Christians need in regards to both receiving and giving criticism whether it be it a rejection letter or personal rejection :

Be open and humble.

James 3:17, "But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy."

Be kind.

1 Peter 4:9 "Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing".

Be willing to learn.

Proverbs 1:5, "A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels..."

Seek discernment and discretion.

Proverbs 2:9-11, "Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path. When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee."

Don't be afraid of mankind. Remember Who is pleased and Who is with you. Hebrews 13:6 "So we say with confidence, The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"

Don't give up. "Be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord for as much as you know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord..."

I can't leave the page without discussing Forgiveness. When you are offended, whether through the rejection of others or the perception that you've been wronged, you cannot hold grudges and be successful. Let it go. Let it go. Let it go. Yes, you need to forgive an editor or publisher who rejects you. In your rejection of their rejection, add a note of forgiveness-make a choice. You'll feel much better about it, too and your interaction with the next editor/publisher will not be so harried. Keep in mind that God's mercies are new every morning. Do you want to follow His example?

Last but not least, DO NOT MAIL THAT REJECTION REJECTION LETTER. Discuss it with God and then shred it or burn it. Wipe the slate clean and start fresh. Tomorrow is another day.

Answers to Dr. Wordwielder's Exam

2009-07-17T22:26:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who exercised your brains this past week in reading and taking my examination. I am certain that many of you did take the time to ascertain the answers but for some reason, you are recording your answers off the record. I'm sure you are anxious to compare your findings with the final answers so I, Dr. Word Wielder do hearby declare the following answers to be the verifiable and reliable answers:

1. Hectic or Helpful Homonyms. The Egyptians were ruled by a (farrow, pharaoh) who sat on a (thrown, throne) chair. The correct answers are pharaoh and throne. A farrow is a group of wild pigs and the word thrown is past tense for throw.
2. Ideal or Idiotic Idioms. The musician who won the national finals at the Gospel Music Association (A. forgot himself OR B. went off the deep end) when he heard his name announced over the public address system. Choose the correct idiom. The correct answer is went off the deep end. Though many think that the term may only apply to becoming angry rapidly, Merriam-Webster's Online Dictionary assigns it also the following possible definitions: — go off the deep end
1: to enter recklessly on a course
2: to become very much excited

To forget oneself is to forget one's manners or training by belching, making rude noises or being loud and obnoxious. In children, it can also mean to wet one's britches. Though this might be the case for some contest and competition winners, the correct definition was not to forget oneself.

3. Wise or Wacky Words. Automaton. Is it: A. Automatic matching OR B. a robot or mechanical person? Select the proper definition. If you have chosen a robot or mechanical person, then you have made the wise selection. The term may also be applied to anything that moves on it's own.

4. Comical or Cute Coinage. Editoreyesis. When one's eyes insist on noticing grammatical errors almost everywhere his or her eyes look, making general reading more like an editing experience. People with this condition tend to be hardest on themselves. ( Your blog hostess possesses a severe case of this condition. ) Now it is your turn to coin a phrase or leave your copy of a coined phrase that you love hearing or using. Place your answer in the comment box at the bottom of this post.

Once again, I bid you audiue and anticipate with great joy, our future salutations and communications. Until next Wednesday in the wee hours of the night, Good Bye, my students and acquaintances. Be certain to read a dictionary page whilst await my return and send me your favorite idioms just for the stimulation of the mental capacities, which I crave like a bee craves pectin. Good night.

Dr. Wordwielder's Word Smithing 101

2009-07-15T22:00:00.001-07:00

Dr. Wordwielder: Ladies and Gentlemen, it is once again my priviledge to join you here at Rather Be Writing for my excellent excercises on which I elaborate in my courses at the Elite Educational Institute for English Acceleration (or EEIEA, pronounced "Ayuh"). But first, I must tell you that I've been browsing Ms. BeckyJoie's blogroll focused on finding fascinating fodder to feed my fancy for delightful dialect. I do declare with mesmirizing merriment that her marvelous mates measure up as magniloquent masterminds.So before I deliver my dissertation on communication, let me refer you to their weblogs. Do I have your permission, Ms. Oakes? I do? Of course, Why thank you, Maa'm. She is always such a gracious hostess. I shall leave you the links. However...

Please, do not forget, my friends, to return safely here to Rather Be Writing after your journey into the blogosphere. I have labored to attend to our weekly wordsmithing for Ms. Oakes, and despite the late hours I keep, she has accommodated my schedule because she is aware that the information which I share with you is vital ventilation of the verbiage you need to voraciously voice and value. So vacate this site ever so briefly and visit the following: You will find Ms. Tabares' post here: http://artofeloquence.com/blog/wordy-wednesday/ and the original post which sparked it here: http://lifeloveandlunacy.blogspot.com/2009/07/wordy-wednesday.html

Now that you have had your cognitive quadrants quickened, you should have no qualms or queries about my quick quiz questions. The quandary can be quelled by calculating the qualifying answers and inserting them into a post in your que of blog entries. Then the readers shall reappear here to respond with a link to the web address wherein you have posted your response to these questions. Return again and read the Exam Explanations and Answers which I shall record on this page in a day or so.

1. Hectic or Helpful Homonyms. The Egyptians were ruled by a (farrow or pharaoh) who sat on a (thrown, throne) chair. Pick the correct homonym for the sentence to make sense.
2. Ideal or Idiotic Idioms. The musician who won the national finals at the Gospel Music Association (A. forgot himself OR B. went off the deep end) when he heard his name announced over the public address system. Choose the correct idiom.
3. Wise or Wacky Words. Automaton. Is it: A. Automatic matching OR B. a robot or mechanical person? Select the proper definition.
4. Comical or Cute Coinage. Editoreyesis. When one's eyes insist on noticing grammatical errors almost everywhere his or her eyes look, making general reading more like an editing experience. People with this condition tend to be hardest on themselves. ( Your blog hostess possesses a severe case of this condition. )

The time has come for me to retire for the evening and to say goodnight to your blog hostess. Ms. Oakes, thank you so much for the invitation to interact with your audience. I shan't take it for granted. May you have a word wise Wednesday and a winsome week as well.

BeckyJoie: Thank you, Dr. Wordwielder for coming as our weekly guest blogger. You're a great inspiration to me and I'm sure to our readers as well. Readers, please show your appreciation for the Dr.'s time and dedication to us by doing as he suggested and posting your answers to the Exam questions on your blog. Then come back and leave us a link to your answers. We'll post the correct answers some time in the next few days.

Until next time, Happy Writing and Wordsmithing!

Christian Writers, Listen Up

2009-07-11T23:28:00.000-07:00

Here's some inspiration from the WORD of God for my fellow Christian writers:

"Whatever you do, in WORD or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus." Colossians 3:14.

"My heart overflows with a good theme; I address my verses to the King;My tongue is like the pen of a ready writer." Psalm 45:1.

"And let the beauty and delightfulness and favor of the Lord our God be upon us; and confirm and establish the work of our hands. Yes, the work of our hands, confirm and establish it." Psalm 90:17 (Amplified).

Welcome, Dr. William Wordwielder!

2009-07-08T19:13:00.000-07:00

Today, we are blessed to have a guest author, Dr. William Wordwielder, an editor and multi-genre writer who also teaches university students excellence in articulation and publication.

Ever since I've met him when he appeared on a previous late night blog of mine, he has become like a grandfather figure to me even though he is known by his students as a bit of an eccentric etymologist. His reputation was established when his peers discovered that rather than to socialize with the staff of the university where he works, he prefers perusing Webster's Dictionary, Roget's Thesaurus and rhyming dictionaries. He is so enamored with writing that even his impending retirement can't keep him from picking up a pen-which he does when he thinks no one is looking--shhh-but most always I've seen him at a computer, pecking away at the keys with two fingers. I suspect he will always find time to pen prose, but for now, he has decided to visit Rather Be Writing. I will allow him to introduce himself and his work further.

Why, thank you, Ms. Oakes, I appreciate that you presented such a powerful prologue of my presence and purpose, My Dear. I shall be forever at your mercy. However, you've been gracious to allow me time for discourse here at Rather Be Writing so I shall waste no further time in introducing myself to your readers.

Although my authorship is already publicized abroad, I did not begin 'web-logging' until April of 2005, when I became aware of the necessity in order to stay abreast of the modern era of publishing. Of course, journals existed for eons before this, but we shan't bicker about it, shall we now? A writer must not lament departure from the pen and page, though it discomforts him to be displaced of a dear soul mate who hath tarried with him through childhood woes and joys. Of course, there is a great distinction between the manuscripts of yesteryear and the mode of cognitive transcription that trickles from our fingertips onto a board with keys, but that, my friends, is an immutable evil with which we must acquiesce in order to survive this brutal metamorphosis of the craft. But I digress. You have not come to console a codger such as this professor who has not a bone of contention to bear. No, you have arrived at this sacred site to acquire an apprenticeship to elocution. I shall now acquaint you with my notoriety which I maintain by keen study and perseverance.

Contracted in 1978 to be the Professor of Puns, Prose and Poetry at the Elite Educational Institute for English Acceleration (or EEIEA, pronounced "Ayuh"), my competence in composition has earned me exceptional accolades in associations of writers and English Professors. My work has been published in three additional languages: Greek, Latin and French. My Alma mater presented me with an honorary doctorate for many years of language instruction to my students at the Institute. I continue to be retained there until a suitable replacement shall be employed to discharge the duties which I have responsibly executed for the past 22 years.

Lest I lose sight of the time allotted, please allow me, ladies and gentlemen, to present the lesson for which my services have been procured.

Each week's educational exercises shall consist of the following:

1. Hectic or Helpful Homonyms?

2. Ideal or Idiotic Idioms?

3. Wise or Wacky Words?

4. Comical or Cute Coinage?

I shall type them in numerical order. Your assignment shall be to reply with either the correct response or an original creation of a word according to what the questions require. When you are prepared to answer, select the icon in the window that is labeled, "Comments" and insert your text. After the passage of time, I will deliver the answers to Ms. Becky Joie for her to post after your comments.

Here are the examination questions for the week:

1. Hectic or Helpful Homonym. Which homonym is it?

Gladly the cross ___bear. A. eyed OR B. I'd

2. Ideal or Idiotic Idiom? Which one will you choose?

When the author received his royalty check in the mail, he _________________.

A. was as happy as a clam in the mud OR B. judged a book by it's cover

3. Wise or Wacky Word? Balderdash. Does it mean: A. making a mad dash to recover a dropped hairpiece OR B. nonsense speech or writing?

4. Comical or Cute Coinage. Invent a new word and define it. Here is one that Ms. Becky Joie has utilized on her web logs. "Bloglinkwent". This word is used to describe a blog owner who has been delinquent in posting and thus has no current links to share with his or her readers.

Well, I have fulfilled my obligations for the evening. Your blog hostess has given me ample time to complete the task. I shall retire for the evening and await the call to alert me that it is time to post the answers to this examination. Thank you, Ms. Oakes for the opportunity.

You are quite welcome, sir. Thank you for joining us this evening.

Editorial. Late each Wednesday night, Dr. William Wordwielder will visit us here at Rather Be Writing. Come back again soon as his test answers are revealed. It is a tough challenge. I know. He ran me through the ringer before posting them on this evening's page. Oops, he even has me using idioms.

How to Make a Living as a Writer

2009-07-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

Over the course of time, I've had people ask me how they can make a living with their writing. I know several self-published and traditionally published authors who successfully make writing their career. When I have asked them for the keys to success, they often say, "diligence". They also say "time". This would be both time spent writing and periods of time building a "platform".

Novelist Nora Roberts has one cardinal rule for writers who want to make a living. Here is my paraphrase of it: Seat your daire aire in the chair.

As one growing into the professional writer role with much yet to learn, I am not without opinion on the topic.

As for me, I think you have to be humble enough to try every kind of writing--even the genres that don't appeal to you initially. I never thought magazine writing would interest me until I gave it a shot. Now I love it. I have other goals and dreams as a writer and I know that in the "write" time, I will make a living with my art. Because I'm not an expert and there are many who are, I will defer to someone else for more proven advice.

Here are a few tips from Laura Turner.

Magazine Mush

2009-07-05T21:39:00.000-07:00

I LOVE magazines. I write for the Lake Family Magazine but writers always wish to expand their audience. I'm dipping my feet in the water wherever I can these days.

I've said it before and I say it again, I love magazines. I read several: Reader's Digest, health magazines, Homeschool Enrichment, Homeschool Heartbeat, The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, No Greater Joy, parenting, educational, devotional and various writing magazines as well as e-zines.

What is so great about reading magazines? They offer a quick, easy way to learn about a variety of things and also reveal the writers' unique personalities. When you have so many authors coming together in one place, there is bound to be some fascinating reading going on. To top those reasons, I believe that reading and writing are a never-ending circle.

I read many genres besides this, but magazines go with me everywhere. I usually have one or two kinds in my car or briefcase. I can read them anywhere when I have a free moment. I really don't know why I like them above other types of reading but I do and you might find me in corner of the Sunday School room reading one or in the parking lot after church or even in the waiting line at the grocery or doctor's office. I just love magazines-at least wholesome ones and those that contain helpful information.

I was talking to one magazine editor today and she informed me that I am about to become involved in the magazine in a much more significant way. I'm very excited and nervous. We will meet soon to discuss details. Pray for me. As my brother is fond of saying, "This is pivotal".

Meanwhile, I am reading copies and analyzing them to learn about the writing process and how the different styles fit each section. Bodie Thoene talks about this in her Writer to Writer book and so did the Writer's Digest course I began years ago. You can learn from just about any genre of writing if you read carefully, dissect and analyze. So, on my agenda for the week (after Monday), magazine reading and writing may take a higher priority. (Don't worry, I haven't given up the other writing. I have many irons in the fire.)

How about you? What magazines do you read? Do you like to write for magazines? Have you even tried it or considered it? It might be a good fit.

Give it a try. Google "Magazine markets" and see what you discover. I will do the same-though I have a list already in mind to market. Then we can compare notes.

Who knows? Maybe you will, like me, become all mush for magazines.

Night Writer

2009-07-01T22:42:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm up late again writing when I should be sleeping but I can't sleep. I have a doctor appointment tomorrow that I must keep and it is scheduled for early morning. Why couldn't I be an early riser by nature? I'm not a morning person.

So I stay up and write. I'm wide awake anyway. Tomorrow I will be "wide asleep", as my husband puts it.

Yesterday was not bad writing-wise. I wrote two poems and a short story. I now have to edit and send them off to a contest by the fourth. I may hand-deliver since I live close.

I still have a stack of things at which I plug away--quite cheerfully. I think I've gotten past the idea that writing is play and I don't have time to do it till my work is complete. I've made writing my work and yet I still play with it. I love writing. I can't help it. It was instilled within me by my Creator. It had to be. I was writing as a little girl, making up poems while I sat at the mill pond watching the water fall over the rocks and trickle over the moss which grew in abundance in my New England neighborhood.

A weird child, I would write in a graveyard because it was silent, or in the van with ear muffs, at the library or bookstore and alas to my mother's chagrin, I would hide under the covers at night with a flashlight reading a book or writing on a notepad. Some things never change. I hope this doesn't. I love writing. I don't intentionally choose to stay up all night but once in a while, I must because the words are there and the silence is golden.

I do need sleep though and must catch some zzzz's. So I leave you...with questions as always.

When do you write best? Where is the best setting? What images inspire you? Write soon. I'm dying to know. Are you a night owl too?

Rather Be Writing Ramblings

2009-06-29T22:07:00.000-07:00

Today I sorted through print outs of market ideas and contests. I highlighted the deadlines and organized the subjects according to genre and topic. My bed held the stacks as I sorted and cleaned out my writing briefcase. I felt like a regular neat freak for a minute or two. But not for long. I spilled the stacks on the floor and had to re-do them. This time I grabbed some paper clips and attached them to the upper left hand corners to secure them. At least if they slide off the bedspread they will fall into organized piles/ tiles.

It took me about thirty minutes to complete the purge but I felt good when I finished. Clean up is necessary from time to time.

After doing this, I worked on writing a mission statement for a non-profit organization, finished that and sent it off to email-land. I took a little break to read JoJo's FIMMology 101 book. (Foot In Mouth Man is a humorous character who thrives or fails to thrive on miscommunication.) I had a great chuckle and my kids came around the corner to see what their crazy mama was laughing about now. (I laugh out of the blue at thoughts, things I read, etc. so it is not new for them to hear me laughing, they just don't like missing out on the fun and of course I always oblige.) Instead of finding me in front of the computer watching a YouTube Christian comedy routine, they discovered me with booklet in hand and tears streaming down my cheeks. I explained about FIMM and told them that books like this are going to be included in their English classes next school year. They smiled like Cheshire cats.http://artofeloquence.com/

After the dust settled, I sat on my cleared-off bed with laptop balancing on a tray on my knees. I was overjoyed to discover an email from a Bible curriculum creator. She was very helpful and offered me some choices on which products I desire to review. In one to two weeks, I will receive copies to use and write up information on. (This is done under my role as an independent contractor with The Old Schoolhouse Magazine Homeschool Crew.) Stick around. I will post the reviews on my Leaders in Learning blog in a few weeks here: http://www.blogger.com/www.leadlearners.blogspot.com

Of course, tonight I am blessed with some insomnia so I've put it to good use by finishing some reading and writing but I can't stay up too late. It's my twelfth wedding anniversary. I don't want bags under my eyes. (Not that we can afford to go anywhere, LOL.)

Hubby is to work during the day and I will be my mama-self, but trying to squeeze in some calls to the doctor's offices as well. I have been absent from this blog for a few days because of feeling so under the weather that I could not think or type. I'll keep you posted if I have any big news.

Meanwhile on the writing front, I will spend some of my spare time as "office hours" tomorrow and work on that file of market opportunities or else the new book idea I came up with recently. If I'm not able, I will be using the time to work on off screen parts of writing--research. I've recently met individuals who have knowledge of things I need to research. I'll be visiting their web pages and looking at their materials for any helpful input for the book.

Many of you are reading this in broad daylight. I wish you a beautiful day. Thank you for putting up with my Writing Rambling today. It seemed fitting that I should do this once in a while. Plus anything sounds good at this time of the night. LOL.

Good day, my friends.

Ahoy, Matey! Beware of Pirates

2009-06-27T05:45:00.000-07:00

ALERT!

"BE SOBER. BE VIGILANT. YOUR ADVERSARY, THE DEVIL, WALKS ABOUT LIKE A ROARING LION SEEKING WHOM HE MAY DEVOUR. " 1 PETER 5:8

The technology boom in which we live has many wonderful benefits. In a click, we can visit people from all over the world, read an E-book, watch a video, see pictures of anything our hearts desire and communicate with editors, publishers and readers.

Even thirty years ago, writers did not have this information superhighway from which we benefit and yes, detriment. Authors of old did not have instant communication nor the opportunity to put their work in the public eye so quickly as we. With the use of the Internet, there is the need for caution. Not only do we find ourselves concerned about unsavory people stalking us and horrifying accidental pop-ups of unedifying content, but we also now have to be on the look out more for pirates! At this point, you may have spied the intent of this post OR think that I have finally jumped the ship of sanity. The pirates of which I speak are word thieves.

Authors have always been concerned about other people stealing their ideas and words. Determining how to prevent this can bring a wide range of solutions and opinions.

Imitation may be the highest form of flattery but it's best to remember that there is "nothing new under the sun". Others may generate similar ideas, but it is how you, as a writer express those ideas that makes them unique. To have someone quote your work is a great honor but to have your words plagiarized is outrageous!

There are many documents published about how to copyright. You will need to do your research before assuming your work is protected. Technically speaking, all written and published work is considered copyrighted; however, proving ownership in a court of law, should the need arise, is difficult without some verification that the work originated with you.

For the writer, knowledge of copyright laws is as prudent as a cook wearing an apron.

As for me, I want to make wise use of the gifts and works to which I am called. That being said, I feel also that some things are not worth fighting over. I've already seen some of my writing plagiarized (and obviously so) even though I'm not as internationally known as people like Beth Moore or Lisa Bevere. I'm known only because I've had a few things in print. In the past, I've been published in small publications and on the Internet but my books and works in progress have yet to be published. So how do word thieves find me to hi-jack my material and who thinks they are getting rich from stealing my words? I do not know and really, I do not care at this point. Small things I can let go. I believe we all "answer to a Higher Authority" as Hebrew National's slogan states it. On the other hand, some things need to be protected. The law is for the lawless. If the need arises, defend your copyright--especially if you feel strongly that it is something meant for you alone to write and publish. It's your choice.

Either way, Christian writers, you have an adversary, the devil. He is the thief who comes to steal, kill and destroy. He wants to make you fearful of writing or sharing your work because of the threat of copyright theft. If he can't do that, he send a flesh and blood "pirate" to thwart the expanse and distribution of the message. He wants to stifle all truth. Even if the message you write is your own and not full of spiritual depth, pirating it may distract you from moving on to write more meaningful pieces.

The devil is the original pirate and he trains others to follow in his footsteps. The problem for him, though, is that with a Christian writer, he is outranked.

Here's my Writer's Creed:

I believe that God has a supreme will for our lives, even in relation to our writing careers.

I believe that He gives us great flexibility within that will and freedom of choice as to how to the use of the gifts He has bestowed on His children.

I believe that He is glorified by skillful work and wise use of our resources as writers and people of God.

I believe that, if we seek His perfect will rather than our own, in due time, He will move our careers in the direction of success.

I believe that we reap what we sow in every area.

I believe that He calls each of us to use our lives and talents for the greater good of humanity and for His glory.

I believe that we should not fear what man can do unto us but focus on pleasing God. If we do this, rejection letters will not devastate us, public opinion will not sway us away from the goal and we need not fear the pirates who would ruin our careers. Ultimately, God is in control.

I believe that trusting God will enable us to know when to defend our rights and when to let it ride.

I believe that you should write your best, know your rights and responsibilities and trust God with the result. Do not be afraid of pirates.

There are so many things I could add to that list, but these are the basics for a Christian writer.

Nevertheless, writer be vigilant. Of pirates beware but don't be scared.

If you'd like to get some quick information about copyright laws, visit the first link, below which leads to a string of video clips by Nathan Boehme, a writer, editor and independent film maker in Los Angelos, California. Here you will see short blips with a virtual film strip so that you can select the clip you desire. Recorded in a creative and entertaining style, his videos educate you with all the basics about copyrights right down to a poor man's copyright idea. Have fun. http://www.ehow.com/video_4467944_get-basic-understanding-copyright.html

The next link is direct to the U.S. Copyright and Patent Office. There are almost endless sub links to answer all your questions about copyrights. These are the facts. http://www.copyright.gov/

Fridays Are For Forums

2009-06-25T20:46:00.000-07:00

Drum Roll, please! This week's cheerleader is....

One and two cheers, three cheers, a dollar.

All for the "Forum" stand up and holler!

Every writer needs a forum for fellowship, fun and fantastic inspiration. Every forum needs writers to make them interesting and effective.

Faithwriters online forum is an inspiration to me. I've posted a few articles in their weekly writing challenges and read many entries as well. The stimulation and feedback are helpful at least. To add business to pleasure, the site offers links to a critique circle, an online university with free and priced c0urses on genre writing, marketplace tips, author showcasing, job linking/referrals, contests and opportunities to become published in their magazines and books as well as a variety of interactive writing lessons.

You can also track your favorite Faithwriters authors via your own Faithwriters inbox. Of course, there are different levels of membership and service, so you will want to click on all the links to see how what they offer matches your goals.

Whether or not you participate in the challenges and contests is entirely up to you but I highly recommend that all Christian writers join a forum of some type. It's motivating, entertaining and educational. Oh, did I forget to mention "fun"?

Previously,I'd been too busy to browse their pages but went over there today to see what the new challenge will be for the next round. They're on hiatus until July. I decided to click around the website a bit and found way more than I ever remembered seeing when I became a member of this forum. I've decided that I need to make wise use of the money and time I invested and take advantage more of the opportunities provided. Here's a link if you want to check it out: http://www.faithwriters.com/

I've joined other online forums as well. Each one is unique and offers their own specialized areas of training and community to writers. (I'm in several for homeschooling as well.)

If you are an aspiring writer, or an already published author, think about it: forums and you are a good match. The give and take is an important part of community that writers sometimes miss in their physical communities. Birds of a feather flock together. Faithwriters is a good place to flock. Maybe I will see you there.

Here's where some of my fellow Faithwriter Friends' blogs can be found:

http://terri-treasures.blogspot.com/ Terri Tiffany, Inspirational Writer and Founder of Clermont Christian Writers Group. Faithwriters Challenge Winner.

http://shirleymcclay.com/ Shirley McClay, fellow blogger and Facebook friend, Faithwriters Challenge Winner.

http://www.donnas-stories.blogspot.com/ Donna Kohlstrom, Short story writer and fellow member of Clermont Christian Writers, Faithwriters Contributor.

The Power of Persuasion

2009-06-20T06:20:00.000-07:00

Every good writer has the power of persuasion at his or her disposal. To learn that our words are not just words is an important lesson for the writer. More than that, though, the person who has realized the power of his or her words, will use them to fight good causes and not merely to prosper one's own career.

The pastor at our local Calvary Chapel gave me a good reminder, Thursday night, of how words can be powerful and last forever. He spoke about Judas, Pontius Pilate, the angry crucifixion mob and even some of the disciples whose words live forever in infamy for the evil or for the good. Generations will remember our Lord's mother Mary's words, now referred to as the "Magnificat", or Peter's confession that Jesus is the Lord, the Christ, the Son of God.

We also have some modern day examples of people whose words were captured forever on the Internet or cellphone text messages. Their words condemned them to criminal sentences.

As a writer, I pray that the "words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart" are acceptable in my Savior's sight. I pray that the words I pen may be used for His causes and His eternal purpose. I pray that I may edify and not tear down, that I may expose but not ridicule, that I may encourage but not embarrass. I pray, along with some of my friends, that my speech whether verbal or written, may always be "seasoned with grace". Not only that, but may I skillfully write so that the message of my heart may be heard and understood--and that people will be touched and moved by the words that form on the tip of my pen.

Ultimately, what we write defines us even though when we write, we do so to define others and other things.

Consider these quotes:

Words-so innocent and powerless as they are, standing in a dictionary, how potent for good and evil they become in the hands of one who knows how to combine them.--Nathaniel Hawthorne.

Then pen is a formidable weapon, but a man can kill himself with it a great deal more easily than he can other people. --George Dennison Prentice.

Essays

2009-06-16T12:35:00.000-07:00

Which part of me came first, the analytic mind or the writer? I do not know the answer to this question but one thing I do know is that I tend to analyze things to death. I once had a colleague who told me to stop thinking. "Some things just are!" she said, "You don't need to think about things so much!" But I can't help it. Nothing and no one is just as they appear-not even God (or should I say, especially not God?).

So I analyze and I dissect, chew it up and nurse the thoughts until I have a nugget. I do this with every kind of writing. I'm still trying to find my niche but meanwhile I write about everything that crosses my mind (well, almost).

As a writer, I've been dabbling in just about every type of writing and genre, loving every minute of it and wondering when and in which slot I will eventually settle down.

I find much of my online writing falls under the essay category. Much of my life experience sets me up to do just that. I think that this aspect of writing is where I can be truest to my heart's cry as it is a more direct approach then poetry and fiction seem to be for me.

I met a new friend, Melinda, at my critique group. She is an essayist, who, as far as I can see, has a similar outlook and background to me-- though there are many differences that could be pointed out between our viewpoints and style. She is very sweet and yet has a skill for being direct and poignant. I think I have found another kindred spirit. (I've been blessed to meet several of those this year.) I look forward to reading her essays. So far, I've been blessed and surprised.

There are many places that essays can be used. Of course, you have online forums, magazines, newspapers or Christian publications. I blog most of my essays. What makes a good essay? How do you cater it for the market in which you wish to publish it?

Here are some links to help you get started. Leave me a comment on how you write essays and what your cause and motive are for writing them.

http://www.wikihow.com/Write-an-Essay
http://www.writersdigest.com/article/Tips_to_Help_You_Publish_Your_Personal_Essays/
http://members.tripod.com/~lklivingston/essay/
http://www2.actden.com/writ_den/tips/essay/index.htm
http://www.ehow.com/how_2040634_write-an-essay.html?ref=fuel&utm_source=yahoo&utm_medium=ssp&utm_campaign=yssp_art

Enjoy visiting the links BUT don't forget to come back here and leave me a comment with your ideas and opinions on essay writing! Some of my readers are good at this topic!

Write Here, Write Now

2009-06-15T19:53:00.000-07:00

The following are some random thoughts about my writing at this time:

Today's writing journey was a fun one. I finished all the critiques for tonight's deadline and worked on a mega review for the TOS Crew. (I'll be posting that shortly on my Leaders in Learning blog.)

I learned a great deal about writing tonight at Palm Group. Though all of the authors and writers attended for the purpose of critiquing each other's works, there was a hidden opportunity to learn more about writing in general. When I hear another writer's perspective, I am inspired to see how the same words can impact readers in different ways. I am reminded of the power of word usage and personal voice. How easy it is to see when someone has thrown words onto a page which are not genuinely from the heart or which do not, with accuracy, express the intent of the writer because they are the wrong words. How carefully, then, must we choose phrases and symbols that communicate what we really believe and feel. I love to watch the impact of a powerfully written poem or short story and how it strikes a chord in the other writers' hearts. When an author shares a testimonial, he or she never knows who is going to be touched and how. It's exciting.

As one truly infatuated with writing, I struggle with wanting to sit at my laptop all day long and all night long so that I can write about the desires and deep seated feelings of my heart but still knowing that life must be lived in order to proceed. Yet, I feel guilty when I do something other than to write. This is how strongly I desire to put words into print, even if it for only my own eyes to view. It occured to me today that not all of writing is sitting down to type. Some of it is discovered in the daily living and pondering of life. Some of the best thoughts have come to me not only at my desk but also along the way-while doing the dishes, driving down the road, taking a shower, reading another book, watching television (on those rare occasions). Most wisdom is not thought up but discovered. So you see, you are still writing when you are not writing-if you will allow those moments to also be used for reflection. Think about life. Think about everything. There is much hidden meaning. We just have to pay attention to what we see and hear...and that on which we meditate will encompass that which we express in words.

Consider these quotes from famous authors:

Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart. ~William Wordsworth

Write down the thoughts of the moment. Those that come unsought for are commonly the most valuable. ~Francis Bacon

What no wife of a writer can ever understand is that a writer is working when he's staring out of the window. ~Burton Rascoe

Use the time to your advantage. Use even the moments when you are away from your desk to write. No time is a lost opportunity. Stop feeling guilty like I did. You can do it. Write here. Write now.

Writing Homework

2009-06-13T07:12:00.000-07:00

I'm taking a vacation so I can do my writing homework. (I wish.)

I have a pile of writing and reading to do:

Completion of 7 more critiques for Palm Group to finish by Monday night.
A 375 page Educational Planner to use and review for the TOS Crew.
Entries for couple of contests that I desire to enter, but have not found time to think about.
Catching up on FaithWriters and Writer's Circle challenges.
Working on at least one of my new book ideas.
Keeping up the blogs.

All joking aside, I find it challenging to work from home where there are so many distractions and chores calling my name. Add a couple of wiley boys to the mix and I really have a struggle keeping on task. It's no wonder I am up late after everyone else has been in bed for hours. That is when I have a quiet office in which to work. (My office is mobile. It can be the couch, the bed, the porch, the doctor's office, the car or wherever I have some peace and quiet. We don't have the luxury of a separate room right now so I make do with what we have.)

My boys need a great deal of attention and so I've come to the conclusion that in order to complete all the goals of my writing agenda, I will have to plan some time away and to myself. I think I will "hire" my husband to watch the boys once or twice a week while I spend a few hours at the library with my laptop. Better yet, I will send them all away to the gym or skatepark for a few hours, or perhaps the mall. At any rate, I've decided that I will need to give myself periods of time when I pretend I am not such a people person.

I read a quote that showed me how I will need to think at times in order to accomplish my goals and finish my writing "homework".

Here is the funny philosophy one famous writer reported to have for himself:

Tell everybody that you live in one hotel and then live in another. When they locate you in the other, move to the country.When they locate you in the country move somewhere else. Work everyday 'till you're so pooped that about all the exercise you can face is reading the papers.

--Earnest Hemmingway

Everybody Needs A Cheerleader

2009-06-06T18:55:00.000-07:00

What does cheerleading have to do with writing? Absolutely nothing! Then why on earth did I say such a thing on a writing blog?

If you are a paper and pencil geek like me, you may not be good on the ball court but my, oh, my, are you the champion of the page...until you receive your 20th rejection letter in six months. It is then, my friend, that you will need a cheerleader--a source of encouragement to keep you motivated in the field. (Hopefully, you aren't receiving that many rejection letters and that the reason for not getting them is not resultant from a lack of submissions. Hint, Hint. If you are getting rejection letters, that could mean you are working hard toward your goal but haven't found the right venue. It could also mean you need to polish your work. Either way, you will need a cheerleader.)

The shoulder on which I cry often belongs to a fellow-writer who, in turn, will offer advice or words of cheer. Encouragement can also be found in a book or article.

Once a week, I will share tidbits which have given me hope along the way. While doing this, I will review items from my personal writing library. We will call them our "cheerleaders".

Today's cheerleaders are the books, #1. Writer to Writer, by Bodie and Brock Thoene, and #2. How to Write a Bestseller in 40 Days or Less, by Barbara DeBolt.

The first book, by the Thoenes is your basic "How-to" guide for writers with many facts covering genre writing but it is not written in a monotone voice. Instead, you will read quirky quips, proverbs, inspirational platitudes and deep wisdom from one who has been there and done very well for herself. (The Thoenes wrote several historical fiction series.)

The Thoenes know well that every writer has a potential hindrance to his or her goals. For some, it is rejection, fear, lack of knowledge or confidence. This hindrance, they name "The Lion" after Proverbs 26:13 which tells us, "The sluggard says, 'There is a lion in the road, a fierce lion is roaming the streets!"

"With this in mind, it is now time to put the lion to sleep!" say the Thoenes, who then encourage readers to list their lions and ask the Lord whether each is an excuse or a reason and then give them all up to Him.

As one who has been chased by many lions, I found this encouraging. Excuses are worthless and reasons can be overcome--especially when you have a book like Writer to Writer to tell you all the "secrets".

As an aside, there is one cheerleader recommended by the Thoenes that every writer must have: The Writer's Market Guide. http://www.writersmarket.com/. Along with it, may I recommend the Christian Writer's Market by Sally Stuart. http://www.stuartmarket.com/

The other book I referenced, by Barbara DeBolt, is pure energy with practical steps to writing your 40,000 word book, chunk by chunk, in 40 days. It even gives you ideas for using spare minutes in your day to add to your word count. The book is only 108 pages long but every page is a gold mine.

"If you write just one page a day, by the end of the year, you will have written a 356 page novel," writes the author. Imagine what could be done with four or five pages per day!

Other cute quotes are: "Why have you let your dream become your nightmare?" and "If you let

these everyday excuses become obstacles, you will never find time to write." Wow! I think I will dust these books off and read them again!

How about you? Do you have a "cheerleader" story you wish to share? A book that encouraged you in your writing goals or a friend who said just the right thing?

Join the conversation. I'd love to hear from you.

To the Editor Or Bust

2009-06-06T17:51:00.000-07:00

I will write and you cut.

I do NOT like it but

'Tis conciseness, I know,

Is the way I must go.

So, please, snip and then clip,

Make it all look real "hip".

Line it up- make it fit

But do not hide my wit.

I've a voice--I do care.

No! Please. Don't change it there!

What I aim now to say

Can not be said that way.

But you shave and you nip

Faster than an old whip.

Firm it up, make it fine

Though I whine and I whine.

In the end, I concede,

It's in the Writer's Creed:

Fixes come from the pro's-

Only the editor knows

What looks best on a page,

What appeals, age to age,

What the publisher craves,

How he reads and then raves.

When the words, fit in form

Yield applause like a storm

From the readers abroad

Who will scan and then nod.

So I write, bite my nail,

Attach the piece to email

And I send it, I must

To the editor or bust!

After a little inspiration from the talk show hosts at Grace Talk Soup, who wrote their theme song in true Dr. Seuss Style, I decided to give it a try myself. I hope you had a chuckle out of reading this. (To listen to Grace Talk Soup, click on the badge at the end of my blog.)

Getting To Know You, Getting to Know All About You

2009-06-02T06:02:00.000-07:00

In honor of a song from one of my favorite musicals, The King and I, "Getting to Know You", today's post will be a just- for-fun-game.

This was also inspired by my writer and speaker friend, JoJo Tabares, from Art of Eloquence and Communication FUNdamentals http://artofeloquence.com/blog/.

The way the game works is that you post your answers on my blog(s) and and then come up with your own questions to post on your blog or website. This will enable us to get to know one another better. I can't wait to see what questions you all create for yourselves.

1. What is the name of my work in progress fictional novel?

2. What are my two other blogs called?

3. What talk show program that I listen to online airs on Thursday mornings?

4. What writing "job" have I recently undertaken which will also benefit my family?

5. What part of my body recently became unreliable?

6. What sport do I reference as being like training multiple children?

7. What did I call a dangerous game?

8. What two people or people groups did I say were important to a writer?

9. What frequent topic that I write about can affect how you view your life?

10. Where can I find your "Getting To Know You" Questions?

TAG! You are it now.

My New Writing Job

2009-05-28T13:13:00.000-07:00

It's official. Late last night, I received an email announcing that my reviews passed the preliminary test and I made it on the TOS CrewMember list, which means, that I will become very busy for the next year reviewing curriculum, books and other various things from educational companies . To make it even more exciting, I will be able to use their products for free in my home school program for our children and perhaps even those in a CO-OP. (See my Leaders in Learning blog for info on TOS-The Old Schoolhouse Magazine.)

As I sit awaiting details on the rules and responsibilities, I am making a mental wish list so that when the guidelines arrive, I will have a head start in looking for my favored things.

Meanwhile, I finished my home school piece for the column in the Lake Family Magazine, considering what to write for various contest entries and writing a story on how I healed from Systemic Lupus. I'm hoping that a letter, which is being written for some friends with similar health symptoms as my former diagnosis, will be used to help other people who desire to be healthy and whole the natural way.

Soon, I may also work on a rebuttal article to an opinion piece, published in the Orlando Sentinel on Monday, that sent waves of outrage in the surrounding communities of home educators.

Last, but not least, I am working on my novel, Calling Him Lord, which I hope to have another chapter written in before next week.

At the library today, I signed myself up for "free college courses" by taking out several writing magazines on loan. There is a wealth of knowledge out there for free, if you take the time to find it.

All in the day of an aspiring writer, are writable, teachable moments that I will grasp with eager hands and clutch to my heart with deep admiration.

Communication Skills

2009-05-23T06:24:00.000-07:00

Being a writer is about so much more than writing. Writers desire to communicate a message, to teach a lesson, to inspire others to write, to vent their own thoughts and feelings or for a multitude of other reasons. No matter what the reason for writing, communication is in process.

Over the years, I've been introduced to a myriad of people who aspire to the "high call" of being a published writer. (Every person is called to do something. To me, writing is a high call of which I am unworthy and yet, by the grace of God, I am called to undertake.) In the meeting places where writers comiserate and critique, a common thread seems to come up in discussion.

"I'm good at writing but terrible at other forms of communication." I've heard this statement from the amateur as well as the successfully published author.

A few years ago, a Christian Writer's Group that I ran hosted a Florida writer (who now lives elsewhere), named Bryan Davis for a writing workshop. It was he who alerted me to the importance of learning to communicate and "sell" yourself. After hundreds of rejections, this author published a successful youth fantasy fiction series and continues to be a hit on the Christian market. His books are now in public schools and libraries as well. But it only happened after he demonstrated how sold he was on the book he was writing. His communication skills included continuing to query after multiple rejection letters, attending writing conferences, approaching editors of publishing houses and selling them on his stories. Now he has a couple of published series and might I add, you should order them for your children!

http://www.dragonsinourmidst.com/)

Self-promotion was a challenging communication skill and a hurdle which he overcame.

Most of us who write find that aspect of the trade horrifying and wish to avoid it at all costs. Why do we feel this way? Is it due to a lack of belief in the ideas we originate? Or is is easier to communicate on paper than in person? Why do we feel uncomfortable and what can we do about it?

I've been blessed to "meet" some very talented people, who are qualified to offer advice on this very issue. A lady I met this week offers training that will benefit not only my writing friends but anyone who desires to be successful. The person to whom I refer is JoJo Tabares, a well-known author and speaker at conferences across the United States.

When I first saw her book in The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, I wanted to read it but thought I might not need it as much as I needed some of the other resources. With budget constraints, I've been holding back on purchasing anything, let alone my favorite friends called "books". I went for some other freebies. (Then again, her Wee-book on the TOS website is available for only pennies so I plan to purchase it and others soon.)

Being a writer with a few things published, one might think that my communications skills are good enough but think again. It's so much easier for me to communicate in writing and much more awkward in person.

On JoJo's webpage, The Art of Eloquence, there is a nifty little test to assess the effectiveness of one's communication skills. I took it and became surprised how that even though I am quite chatty with collegues and those close to me, I have a great deal to learn yet about clarity in communication.

The test only takes a few minutes and is well worth your time. Visit her site and try it for yourself. It's very enlightening.

http://artofeloquence.com/articles.php?article=1

Spoonerisms in Writing

2009-05-22T15:03:00.000-07:00

When I first met my husband, he loved to provoke the curiosity of a tot by reciting a poem about the "Pee Little Thrigs" or "Rindercella who slopped her dripper."

The first response to this was always a blank stare while a puzzled child would try to decipher the code. Next, came what sounded like a giggle stick and then, chuckles gave way to snorts.

After a few minutes, my husband, encircled by a growing audience, began his cartoon voice impressions, mimicking every character from Yogi Bear to Yacky Doodle to Snagglepuss. Adults and children stood holding their sides while laughing so hard they could cough.

While the comedic effect worked well in person, humor can be risky in writing if not used with wisdom.

I recently critiqued a sobering tale that was chock full of obnoxious spoonerisms. It was apparent that the author was quite entertained by them but this reader found them offensive. If the man was writing a comic book or memoir, I could possibly find it in my heart to cut him a little slack but in a murder mystery, the puns were way off-base.

So how do you know what word plays and wacky wisdom to use and when?

1. Make sure you are really feeling the mood of your story

2. Think long and hard before using jokes that don't fit that mood.

3. Make sure your critiquing colleagues are not afraid to be brutally honest with you.

4. Be willing to extract things from your text that you really love but to which your readers may not be able to relate.

While it is a great idea to entertain your reader, using cute phrases is a bit like playing cards while holding crossed fingers behind your back. "You've got to know when to hold them and know when to fold them."

Eating My Words

2009-05-21T09:32:00.000-07:00

Have you ever noticed how difficult it is to catch your own typos in a chat program or online community such as Facebook or AIM? Did you ever write something, hit send and then wish you could take it back only to find it was too late? There sit your words on the screen in front of you, staring at you like bugs eyeing a piece of meat.

You might search in vain for a delete button and then look for a chair to crawl under. At least in the electronic format, you are not face to face (right away, anyway) with the recipient. Regardless, you are making an impression.

Thanks to a really nice new friend, I am sold on hiring a professional editor for my latest work in progress, that is, after my writing collegues take a chop or two at it. I've played the role of a fool in some ways.

Shall I talk more of the three Re's that make you feel ridiculous? Re-read, Re-treat and Re-write. Make that four! Re-cover. Yes, I am re-hashing the last post and eating some of my words.

Yesterday was profitable for me in the writing department. I managed over 3, 000 words in a couple of hours. Prior to then, writer's block had hit me on head and left me numb when it came to working on my novel. I was able to write small things, articles, blogs, short story content and the like but whenever I opened my novel file, I became stuck like a fly on tar paper. Then, I experienced a breakthrough as I re-read a chapter of "Calling Him Lord" that I had written ages ago. Boy, were there typos, incongruent ideas and lots of run-ons that were somehow missed in the first edit. I ate more words. Delete! Good bye to about 1000 words.

Next came the revelation, a whole new line of action. My characters went their ways-ways they had not previously taken, but ways that brought them to a better intersection with the plot. Such fun! But, just as I missed things in the first edit, so I shall likely in the second or third.

If I have to sell my right arm to do it, I shall hire an editor!

What's on tonight's menu? I don't know. Maybe more humble pie.

P.S. If you read my previous blog called "Ghosts of Manuscripts Past", you might like this website which helps you find repetitious words and phrases in your text. I tried it. It's fascinating. You feed your words into the little text box and it spits out an itemization of over-used words and phrases.

Check it out: http://www.writewords.org.uk/phrase_count.asp

The Write Connections For Editing

2009-05-19T18:03:00.000-07:00

Networking is vital to a writer. It's not only what you know but who you know. Who you know and what you know determine what you publish.

There are many opinions on whether or not to hire a professional editor. It's not my desire to debate the in's and out's of either choice. Editing is a necessary "evil". The method that you, as a writer, choose to accomplish that is your choice.

I've found that bartering with others can help defray editing costs somewhat. There are many accomplished professional or polished amateurs in writing groups. I suppose someday I will be wealthy enough from my published work to hire a professional editor, but maybe at that point I won't need one anymore. Of course, my perfectionist brain excels at being critical of my work so much that it often impedes the creative process enough to prevent the completion of the final product at a good speed. On the other hand, I have much to learn about self-editing as well.

Many of you are able to allow creativity to flow and leave the editing to the pro's. As I said, the choice is yours.

Last night, I had the opportunity to join Palm Group in Sorrento, a writing group of which I was a long-time member. Relocation of both the group and me had prevented my attendance for quite a while but another move back into the general area has enabled my re-acquaintance with the group. It was great to see the old gang along with newer members I had not met. The Oldies are still the Goodies - as talented and friendly as I remember.The Newbies are promising as well. I look forward to another visit next month.

One of the things I enjoyed about Palm Group was their ability to dissect work by other writers/authors and point out areas for improvement and deletion. (My, are they good at it!)

But submission to the table is not for the faint of heart. My first visit was four years ago when the former leader introduced them to me as, "The Carnivores". What an accurate description it was!

While no member feels belittled or unappreciated, one sure does find the need to be on his or her toes. The critics don't miss a trick but give it to you with both tough and tender morsels of advice and praise. Needless to say, I will polish my work with much self-editing before I submit anything. I think I will just sit back and learn from the others for a while as I am rusty in the art of being heavily critiqued and swallowing it.

Not that I have all raving reviews by those who read and critique my work currently but that Palm Group has a reputation for raking it with a fine toothed comb. This is exactly what I need...as soon as I am ready again.

For now, I shall trade services with a few select trusted members of the other writing group in which I hold membership, the Clermont Christian Writer's Group, the group that is strong on encouragement. That way I will experience the best of both worlds.

On the flip side of the coin, I also have recently "met" someone who runs an editing company. You can find information about her services at: http://www.awordaptlywritten.com/

Regardless of your selection of the venue, editing is a must. You must have connections with other writers who can edit your work and you never know ahead of time where those connections could lead.

MY NOVEL

2009-05-15T11:08:00.001-07:00

Amidst other free-lance work, I'm writing a novel. It's both invigorating and intimidating.

With all the tools we have today, writing is so much easier now than it used to be. The market, however, is much more difficult. In the old days, if you were adept at grammar and chose an interesting topic, you were likely to be published in just about any genre. Nowadays, it's much tougher, even if you can write fairly well.

The competition has increased. Information and technology have reached the MAX Q of all time. Writers and writer wanna-be's are a "dime a dozen" and self-publishing has become a stronger marketing venue.

To top that, the general public is just not entertained with mere reading as in days of old. With the invention of satellite television, video games and wireless Internet, people are looking for cutting-edge material to read. The joy of plain reading has been replaced by reality TV shows and adrenaline-rushed activities . Stories must now be twice as entertaining, more concise, in keeping with fast-moving trends but not too colloquial. These facts can leave the aspiring writer feeling inadequate.

Despite this, those who love writing will always find a way to pen ( should I say 'text' or 'key in'?) the stories that are on their hearts. True writers do it for the sheer love of writing. Publication is merely the icing on the cake.

Cake minus the icing is dry so it is important that writers do take the time to adjust some of what they write to suit the market. They need to learn ways to improve in their genre and /or branch out of their comfort zones to other genres they may have never considered prior.

There are a myriad of great tools for pros and amateurs alike. Writing formulas are important and every publisher has guidelines. Excellent writers utilize resources without compromising their own ideas and goals. They follow the guidelines and formulas for genres and look for the one thing that will make them stand out, perhaps "breaking the rules" without actually breaking the rules. They find unique ways to improve their craft.

As an aspiring writer, I am taking my own advice about stepping up the pace. Re-writing a novel which I had begun years ago, I bought a writing program to insert the manuscript text into in hopes that it will help me to make the novel even better. The editing and re-writing are an effort to come to the place where I am really pleased with the product I wish to publish. I don't want my novel to sound like it was written by a computer program but I do want to follow the formula of the genre for which I am writing. Not everyone can afford a degree in English but everyone can find free or inexpensive tools to help them improve their skills.

Being somewhat of a right-brainer, I have found the program, "My Novel" to be an interesting purchase. It helps to analyze and organize information, scenes, chapters, as well as to keep track of characters and timeline issues. I think this will help with continuity. It's like having a mini-editor, in a sense.

Recently, my husband was reading a series of Young Adult Christian fiction books to pre-screen it for our children. It really bothered him that the writer, who has had many, many series published apparently did not have continuity in the books. The author needed a continuity editor.

I can see how "My Novel" could help me as a writer with this potential problem. With all the edits and re-edits, it would be easy to miss something.

As I continue to use the program, I'll remember to keep you posted on how well it works and the things I like or don't like about it.

How about you? Do you have any programs or writing tools that you use to help you organize your writing ideas? Or do you have any favorite tricks for generating ideas for writing?

Let me know.

Ghosts Of Manuscripts Past

2009-05-04T04:25:00.000-07:00

When you read several books by the same author or many articles by the same columnist, you tend to notice themes and word usages that sound all too familiar. To a point, this is desirable. An author's voice shining though becomes his or her signature. But how does one keep his or her manucripts from sounding like the "Department of Redundancy Department" or SOSO (same old, same old)? Or how does one come up with enough original work so as not to lead the reader to feel visited by ghosts of manuscripts past?

I was reading through some of my old pieces a day or so ago and noticed several words that I had used repeatedly which I had not seen on first edit. Removing myself from the closeness of my own creation for a time gave me a much more objective viewpoint for analysis.

Aditionally, expanding word usage helps to break up the monotony. Taking advantage of a thesaurus, magazines, "word finds" and cross word puzzles are other ways I have worked on curing this subconscious tendency to use the same phrases over and over again.

How do you deal with this issue in your own writing? Share with us your tricks for editing out repetition without hurting your continuity.

Writing Reviews

2009-04-22T11:24:00.000-07:00

This is a shameless plug. The last few days, I've been busy reviewing some E-books and We-ebooks. To read them, visit one of my other blogs at:
http://www.leadlearners.blogspot.com/ or www.homeschoolblogger.com/thelearninghome

I'm taking advantage of free or cheap resources to sharpen my skills. Real writers are those who don't let their lacks keep them from learning how to be better writers. I'm an aspiring real writer. I want to do whatever I can to hone the writing craft.

What are you doing to improve your writing ability. Share with me, please, any tips and ideas that will help other writers on this pubishing journey!

Thanks and have a great day.

More Market Opportunities

2009-04-13T19:25:00.000-07:00

I am so up to my ears in the waters of writing and I'm lovin' every minute of it. Hopefully one or two of those market ideas or challenges will be the golden opportunity to catapult a writing career into success.

Right now, I'm working on short stories for contests, two greeting card ideas, a children's story, weekly writing challenges and a monthly column. I don't know where this ride will take me, but I feel like a child in a theme park waiting in line to try ride after ride if for nothing but thrill of it all!

I'm thinking about shutting down my other blogs in order to focus more on my professional writing but I'm not sure if I can break my addiction to using blogger as a personal journal and telling all my daily faux pas and dirty landry. Time will tell.

Regardless, I'm happy to be living in a dream place (Florida and near the water) while doing my dream job (free-lance writing). I believe that, in time, I will be making my dream paycheck as well. Until that day comes, I will keep writing my little fingers off-in part because I just can't help myself and in part because I know that those who aim at a target will hit something most of the time and may even hit the bulls-eye some of the time; whereas, those who aim at nothing will hit it every time.

Well, it's late and "That's all she wrote, folks"!

Writing Opportunities

2009-03-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

I've been blessed to be able to write a Homeschool Corner for a local magazine. I've only written for two months but have been blessed to be a part of such a wonderful publication. It has opened doors for me as well.

This year is a fresh start. I've published things in the past but now I am going a whole new direction. It's exhilerating! I've received much support and encouragment from the Clermont Christian Writer's group which has spurred me to become more serious in my writing efforts -it seems to be paying off.

I'm conversing with another editor who is working on an anthology where I might publish a short story. As it is of a sensitive nature, I will be writing under a pseudonym. I'm thrilled to be moving forward in my writing goals and further plan to focus on perfecting the gifts that were entrusted to me.

I don't know where this year's road is going to take me, but I'm excited to take the journey.