Plotting Continues: No, You’re Not Halfway There
Last week we began a story, or rather I began it with a snatch of conversation overheard at breakfast. Have you been listening for interesting bits of conversation ever since? Have you begun noticing anything that’s odd in your everyday interactions? Has a little voice whispered in your ear, “that would make a good novel?”…
Read MoreSunday Inspiration: Living Together
“Civility is the sum of the many sacrifices we are called to make for the sake of living together.” Stephen L. Carter Did you know this coming Tuesday is election day? OK, it’s a tiny election day when almost no one is running for anything, but let’s think of it as good practice for the…
Read MorePlotting a Novel: And Your Book Started Where?
Plotting a novel? I’m about to reveal a novelist’s biggest secret. Come closer. . . promise you won’t tell? Everybody does it differently. That’s right. As much fun as it would be to tell you my way is the only way, I’d be taking my life in my hands at my next writer’s conference. Truth…
Read MoreSunday Inspiration: Fear limits you
“I’ve learned that fear limits you and your vision. It serves as blinders to what may be just a few steps down the road for you. The journey is valuable, but believing in your talents, your abilities, and your self-worth can empower you to walk down an even brighter path. Transforming fear into freedom –…
Read MoreThat Indrawn Breath Between Novels
Last week I talked about taking time off this summer, probably the most I’ve taken off in all my years as a writer. I expected to accomplish a lot, and found that one of the main things I did accomplish was to get some rest. I managed to waste a lot of time feeling guilty…
Read MoreSunday Inspiration: Kindness Rocks
“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.” -Princess Diana When we send our children off to school in the morning, we expect them to receive an education. But aren’t we thankful when they also receive lessons…
Read MoreWhat Did We Learn From Our Summer?
For a novelist some ideas have wings. Others sink like a stone. As a novelist I frequently come up with ideas that, after closer examination, are discarded in the “What were you thinking?” circular file. Sometimes the idea might be good for someone more equipped to tackle that subject or setting. Sometimes it might be…
Read MoreSunday Inspiration: The Dream of My Life
Proman and I have a special interest in India since our daughter was born there. In his ministry, Proman has also traveled to India and worked with groups who organize the poorest of the poor to struggle for their civil rights and economic justice. One of those organizers is an amazing man by the name…
Read MoreSunday Inspiration: Words Have Power
“Your words have power and energy — causing a ripple effect in your body and the world around you. Speak with kindness and generosity.” -GratitudeHabitat.com I’ve learned as an author how important words are in our lives. Not only in books, but in everything we say and write there is a power and energy that…
Read MoreSunday Inspiration: Finding Happiness
“I don’t have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness — it’s right in front of me if I’m paying attention and practicing gratitude.” – Brene Brown Lately I’ve found these words to be so true. As we travel from our home in Chautauqua, New York, to our home in Sarasota, Florida, we’re visiting all…
Read More