The unread story is not a story; it is little black marks on wood pulp. The reader, reading it, makes it live: a live thing, a story. —Ursula K. LeGuin Since 2000, I have edited a devotional periodical called The Word in Season. Ten years ago, when I was pregnant with my younger child, I...Read More
Writers, we are just a week away from the end of National Novel Writing Month. I don’t know what this month has been like for you, but I am losing stamina. Despite having a great cast of characters to play with, a familiar setting, and a closet filled with snacks—I’m ready to ditch my project...Read More
Welcome writers! A few months ago, I was searching online for software and apps that writers could use to increase their efficiency. I happened upon a wonderful post by Jonathan Milligan at Blogging Your Passion and quoted him in one of my blog posts. Jonathan was kind enough to review my new book Write-A-Thon at...Read More
When I speak at writing conferences, participants often ask me what matters more: talent or determination. Talent certainly matters, but all the talent in the world will not help the person who gives up after getting rejected. Most of the famous writers I admire have had their share of rejection to overcome in order to...Read More
I am delighted to welcome runner and writer Kelly Humphrey as today’s guest blogger. I met Kelly online and have been inspired by her running and her wonderful blog, Run Kelly Run. Reaching the Finish Line by Kelly Humphrey NaNoWriMo scares me. I only recently learned of the event and, I’ll admit, the concept is...Read More
Greetings, writers! I am delighted to welcome my friend and colleague Michelle Bersell. Michelle and I met several years ago at a writing conference. Recently, I heard Michelle speak on overcoming fear. I asked Michelle to share her thoughts with us as we approach the last third of our NaNoWriMo writing marathon! ARE YOUR FEARS...Read More
I have to admit: I am not good at taking time off. Last week my spiritual director said to me (again), “Too much of a good thing is still too much!” No kidding. When we do too much (even if it is all good stuff), we feel worn down and worn out. When we cannot...Read More
Today, I am delighted to welcome Nina Amir as my guest blogger. Nina is an author, coach, and the founder of Write Nonfiction in November. She will also be my guest on tomorrow’s Write Now! Mastermind class at 12:00 PM CST. The class is complimentary. Click here to sign up. 6 Things to Do Before...Read More
Today, I am delighted to welcome Abbey Algiers as my guest blogger. Abbey is a teacher, marathon runner, writer—and a great inspiration to me! Enjoy! Method to the Madness by Abbey Algiers Nine years ago, a friend and I were talking at a party. It was pretty crowded, with loud music playing directly behind us,...Read More
The first time I did NaNoWriMo, I created a book cover for my project. I slipped the cover inside the plastic pocket on the outside of the three-ring binder that I was using as a story bible. Every time I looked at that binder, I remembered why I was doing this—to become a novelist. This year,...Read More
