Edie Melson's Blog, page 341
June 5, 2016
The Art of Restraint
by Danetta Kellar @DanettaKellar
When words abound, transgression is inevitable, but the one who restrains his words is wise. -Proverbs 10:19
I heard it once said that we are captain only of the words we do not say. Once they have been spoken, they are irretrievable. They go forth with a mysterious power, the might to either create or destroy, beautify or mar, encourage or discourage. In God’s image we are made, and our God made the world with His words. We would be wise to measure our own words and the power they unleash.
We cannot create trees, animals, water or sky with our words. Try it sometime and see how you fare. Stand in your backyard and declare with all your might “Let there be lush, green grass!”
We can, however, create life with the words we speak. We can send forth the pulse of living, breathing hope into another human being and watch it grow beautiful and strong. We can pick up the pieces of broken lives with our words and rebuild them into restored places of joy.
We can at other times choose to be silent and allow silence to do its marvelous work of mercy and grace, allowing the quietness of reflection and conviction, determination and victory. Restraint gives birth to discernment, and discernment transforms our spoken words to instruments of grace and healing.
One who would speak words of grace and life would
do well to first learn the art of restraint.One who would speak words of grace and life would do well to first learn the art of restraint. When we restrain our tongues, we learn to listen better. We notice things we once ignored in our torrent of speech, our desire to be heard. Our hearts become sensitive to the world of unspoken communication, the thousands of ways love, hope, frustration, despair, and need are expressed with no words at all. Our eyes are opened as our tongue remains silent.
The restraint of the tongue is a discipline and an impossible task without God’s help. James 3:9 tells us “…no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” Herein lies our despair, and simultaneously our hope. No man can tame the tongue, but there is One who can. We can cry out with the Psalmist, O Lord, place a guard on my moth! Protect the opening of my lips! -141:3
The same One who created the heavens and the earth with the power of His words, comes to our aid, setting a guard at the gateway of our words. He will show us how to listen, when to speak, how to bring life to others through what we say.
Do you find it difficult to control your words? Do you have the desire to speak words of grace and kindness, but find yourself losing control, justifying your harsh words in the name of speaking the truth or standing up for yourself? Is your heart often heavy because of the power of words, either received or given?
Lord, place a guard on our mouths. Protect the opening of our lips. Teach us the art of restraint, and the beauty of discerning speech that brings grace and healing to the hearer. Amen
TWEETABLE
The art of restraint - thoughts on #faith & life from @DanettaKellar on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Danetta Kellar is a writer, blogger, and speaker. Her interesting life has taken her around the globe, where she has had the privilege to witness firsthand the transformation of women from all walks of life and culture as they exchange lies for the Truth found in Christ.
Her writing flows out of this rich experience and her own continual search for treasures in life’s darkness. Connect with Danetta online through her blog, Riches Out of Darkness, and on Facebook, or Twitter.
When words abound, transgression is inevitable, but the one who restrains his words is wise. -Proverbs 10:19I heard it once said that we are captain only of the words we do not say. Once they have been spoken, they are irretrievable. They go forth with a mysterious power, the might to either create or destroy, beautify or mar, encourage or discourage. In God’s image we are made, and our God made the world with His words. We would be wise to measure our own words and the power they unleash.
We cannot create trees, animals, water or sky with our words. Try it sometime and see how you fare. Stand in your backyard and declare with all your might “Let there be lush, green grass!”
We can, however, create life with the words we speak. We can send forth the pulse of living, breathing hope into another human being and watch it grow beautiful and strong. We can pick up the pieces of broken lives with our words and rebuild them into restored places of joy.
We can at other times choose to be silent and allow silence to do its marvelous work of mercy and grace, allowing the quietness of reflection and conviction, determination and victory. Restraint gives birth to discernment, and discernment transforms our spoken words to instruments of grace and healing.
One who would speak words of grace and life woulddo well to first learn the art of restraint.One who would speak words of grace and life would do well to first learn the art of restraint. When we restrain our tongues, we learn to listen better. We notice things we once ignored in our torrent of speech, our desire to be heard. Our hearts become sensitive to the world of unspoken communication, the thousands of ways love, hope, frustration, despair, and need are expressed with no words at all. Our eyes are opened as our tongue remains silent.
The restraint of the tongue is a discipline and an impossible task without God’s help. James 3:9 tells us “…no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” Herein lies our despair, and simultaneously our hope. No man can tame the tongue, but there is One who can. We can cry out with the Psalmist, O Lord, place a guard on my moth! Protect the opening of my lips! -141:3
The same One who created the heavens and the earth with the power of His words, comes to our aid, setting a guard at the gateway of our words. He will show us how to listen, when to speak, how to bring life to others through what we say.
Do you find it difficult to control your words? Do you have the desire to speak words of grace and kindness, but find yourself losing control, justifying your harsh words in the name of speaking the truth or standing up for yourself? Is your heart often heavy because of the power of words, either received or given?
Lord, place a guard on our mouths. Protect the opening of our lips. Teach us the art of restraint, and the beauty of discerning speech that brings grace and healing to the hearer. Amen
TWEETABLE
The art of restraint - thoughts on #faith & life from @DanettaKellar on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Danetta Kellar is a writer, blogger, and speaker. Her interesting life has taken her around the globe, where she has had the privilege to witness firsthand the transformation of women from all walks of life and culture as they exchange lies for the Truth found in Christ. Her writing flows out of this rich experience and her own continual search for treasures in life’s darkness. Connect with Danetta online through her blog, Riches Out of Darkness, and on Facebook, or Twitter.
June 3, 2016
Writing Against the Grain
by Bruce Brady @BDBrady007
Writing against the grain.So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. - Romans 8:1-2 NLT
“To sell more books, you have to write for the contemporary reader. That means you must include illicit behavior as acceptable in your characters and their stories.”
This is a compilation of what I’ve heard and read from authors who write for the Christian market and the general market. It’s a mindset that is growing—most notably in the self-publishing arena.
We do have the right to self-expression. However, I believe it comes with a responsibility. A responsibility to edify, and encourage our readers and listeners to strive for excellence in their lives. Stress the impact of our actions on others. In other words, showing them how serving others with a genuine concern for their welfare over our own will result in a more rewarding life.
Characters and stories can be much more impactful when we avoid bloody violence and explicit bedroom scenes and expletives. When we challenge ourselves to spin our tales without using foul language, graphic violence, or steamy sex, we’re forced to write better. And we help expand the vocabulary and thinking of our audiences.
If profit is our primary goal, then I understand using profanity and pornograhy. It appeals to our human nature—the nature that is rebellious toward God. But ironically, if we seek to please God by blessing the souls of those who purchase our products, they will learn of civility and godly love, and we will be richly rewarded beyond what the world can provide.
I recently learned from a colleague that even some seemingly harmless, everyday expressions as simple as the word darn could cause others pain. While this may appear to be an overly sensitive reaction to such an innocuous word, we have to be ever mindful of the effect our words and deeds are having on even the most delicate people—especially children. After all, try as we may, our children will be exposed to everything, whether we like it or not.
It’s ludicrous to think we can shelter the innocent from the harsh realities of the world. But it’s our duty to ensure that we don’t legitimize vulgarity through our language or lifestyles.
The Lord has made it clear that we’ll be held accountable for everything we think, say, and do— whether we believe in Him or not. So it makes sense that we choose our words carefully, considering the effect they may have on our readers.
What do you think? Whether you agree or disagree, I want to hear from you. Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments section.
TWEETABLE
The Beauty of #Writing against the grain - @BDBrady007 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Bruce Brady is an author, writer and playwright. His work has appeared in Focus on the Family’s Thriving Family, www.ChristianDevotions.us, and on stage. Currently, Bruce is working on a Young Adult Novel about a boy who must deal with the death of his dad, being bullied, and helping his mom through her grief. His first five pages took third place in the ACFW South Carolina Chapter’s “First Five Pages” contest.
When he’s not writing, Bruce spends time learning from and helping other writers. He serves as Mentor of Word Weavers International’s Online Chapter, and as a member of Cross ‘N’ Pens, The Writer’s Plot, ACFW’s National and South Carolina Chapters.
“My dream is to entertain my readers and give them hope as they travel the rocky road of life.”
Writing against the grain.So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. - Romans 8:1-2 NLT“To sell more books, you have to write for the contemporary reader. That means you must include illicit behavior as acceptable in your characters and their stories.”
This is a compilation of what I’ve heard and read from authors who write for the Christian market and the general market. It’s a mindset that is growing—most notably in the self-publishing arena.
We do have the right to self-expression. However, I believe it comes with a responsibility. A responsibility to edify, and encourage our readers and listeners to strive for excellence in their lives. Stress the impact of our actions on others. In other words, showing them how serving others with a genuine concern for their welfare over our own will result in a more rewarding life.
Characters and stories can be much more impactful when we avoid bloody violence and explicit bedroom scenes and expletives. When we challenge ourselves to spin our tales without using foul language, graphic violence, or steamy sex, we’re forced to write better. And we help expand the vocabulary and thinking of our audiences.
If profit is our primary goal, then I understand using profanity and pornograhy. It appeals to our human nature—the nature that is rebellious toward God. But ironically, if we seek to please God by blessing the souls of those who purchase our products, they will learn of civility and godly love, and we will be richly rewarded beyond what the world can provide.
I recently learned from a colleague that even some seemingly harmless, everyday expressions as simple as the word darn could cause others pain. While this may appear to be an overly sensitive reaction to such an innocuous word, we have to be ever mindful of the effect our words and deeds are having on even the most delicate people—especially children. After all, try as we may, our children will be exposed to everything, whether we like it or not.It’s ludicrous to think we can shelter the innocent from the harsh realities of the world. But it’s our duty to ensure that we don’t legitimize vulgarity through our language or lifestyles.
The Lord has made it clear that we’ll be held accountable for everything we think, say, and do— whether we believe in Him or not. So it makes sense that we choose our words carefully, considering the effect they may have on our readers.
What do you think? Whether you agree or disagree, I want to hear from you. Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments section.
TWEETABLE
The Beauty of #Writing against the grain - @BDBrady007 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Bruce Brady is an author, writer and playwright. His work has appeared in Focus on the Family’s Thriving Family, www.ChristianDevotions.us, and on stage. Currently, Bruce is working on a Young Adult Novel about a boy who must deal with the death of his dad, being bullied, and helping his mom through her grief. His first five pages took third place in the ACFW South Carolina Chapter’s “First Five Pages” contest.When he’s not writing, Bruce spends time learning from and helping other writers. He serves as Mentor of Word Weavers International’s Online Chapter, and as a member of Cross ‘N’ Pens, The Writer’s Plot, ACFW’s National and South Carolina Chapters.
“My dream is to entertain my readers and give them hope as they travel the rocky road of life.”
June 2, 2016
When the Writing Gets Tough, Just Keep Pedaling
by Lynn Blackburn @LynnHBlackburn
When the writing gets tough, just keep pedaling.A few weeks ago, our youngest son decided he was ready to try riding his bike without the training wheels. My husband removed the training wheels and we wrapped him in bubble wrap secured his helmet on his head and found some knee and elbow pads before letting him go on a small slope in our backyard.
He was a natural.
I’m not just saying that because he’s my baby. No. Really. I’m not.
Within minutes he was begging to take his new skill and test it out in the cul-de-sac.
We turned him loose on the road and he did fine while pedaling down the slight slope of our street. The trouble came when it was time to turn around and head up the road. He’d make the turn but then he would reach a point where he needed to dig in and pedal harder.
Over and over again instead of pushing through, he’d put his feet down and come to a complete stop.On the videos from that day, you can hear my voice repeating one phrase.
“Just keep pedaling.”
When things got shaky, he needed to commit to the ride and embrace the risk that came from keeping his feet on the pedals. He needed to pedal harder and keep pedaling, even as the bike felt like it was starting to tilt out of control.
Once he started doing that?
There was no stopping him.
He’s a pro.
"This idea—to just keep pedaling—is also
true in our writing life."This idea—to just keep pedaling—is also true in our writing life.
You’ve taken off the training wheels. You’ve put your work out there. You’ve submitted to an agent. You’ve attended a conference. You’ve had your work professionally critiqued.
And things have gotten shaky.
You were coasting before, but now you’ve made the turn and the road ahead is an uphill climb.
You have a handle on the basics, but putting it all together and keeping things moving forward is a lot harder than it was before.
Why didn’t anyone tell you that it wasn’t going to get easier?
Well, guess what?
It isn’t.
It’s going to get harder.
A lot harder.
The pressure, the expectations, the deadlines, the criticism, the fear. Oh man, the fear.
Everything in you wants to put your feet firmly on the ground. If you don’t, you’re certain to wipe out. Right?
Wrong!
Do. Not. Stop.
Just Keep Pedaling!
You absolutely positively must keep pedaling.
Overtime you stop it's harder to get going again.Every time you stop it’s harder to get going again, but when you keep pushing forward, you find your rhythm. Even though you’re working harder than you ever thought you could, at some point you realize that you’re doing it!
You’re a pro.
Pros still take a tumble now and then, but it’s not because they quit pedaling. It’s because they were pressing ahead and crashed in the attempt. There’s nothing wrong with that. And when pros hit the ground, they know the only solution is to get up and go again.
I think this would be a great goal for the Summer of 2016—Just Keep Pedaling.
Maybe, if we do that? Maybe there will be no stopping us.
Who wants to come with me on the ride?
Don’t forget to join the conversation!
TWEETABLES
"This idea—to just keep pedaling—is also true in our #writing life." @LynnHBlackburn (Click to Tweet)
When the #writing gets tough, just keep pedaling - @LynnHBlackburn on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Lynn Huggins Blackburn believes in the power of stories, especially those that remind us that true love exists, a gift from the Truest Love.
She’s passionate about CrossFit, coffee, and chocolate (don’t make her choose) and experimenting with recipes that feed both body and soul.
She lives in South Carolina with her true love, Brian, and their three children. You can follow her real life happily ever after at http://www.lynnhugginsblackburn.com.
When the writing gets tough, just keep pedaling.A few weeks ago, our youngest son decided he was ready to try riding his bike without the training wheels. My husband removed the training wheels and we He was a natural.
I’m not just saying that because he’s my baby. No. Really. I’m not.
Within minutes he was begging to take his new skill and test it out in the cul-de-sac.
We turned him loose on the road and he did fine while pedaling down the slight slope of our street. The trouble came when it was time to turn around and head up the road. He’d make the turn but then he would reach a point where he needed to dig in and pedal harder.
Over and over again instead of pushing through, he’d put his feet down and come to a complete stop.On the videos from that day, you can hear my voice repeating one phrase.
“Just keep pedaling.”
When things got shaky, he needed to commit to the ride and embrace the risk that came from keeping his feet on the pedals. He needed to pedal harder and keep pedaling, even as the bike felt like it was starting to tilt out of control.
Once he started doing that?
There was no stopping him.
He’s a pro.
"This idea—to just keep pedaling—is alsotrue in our writing life."This idea—to just keep pedaling—is also true in our writing life.
You’ve taken off the training wheels. You’ve put your work out there. You’ve submitted to an agent. You’ve attended a conference. You’ve had your work professionally critiqued.
And things have gotten shaky.
You were coasting before, but now you’ve made the turn and the road ahead is an uphill climb.
You have a handle on the basics, but putting it all together and keeping things moving forward is a lot harder than it was before.
Why didn’t anyone tell you that it wasn’t going to get easier?
Well, guess what?
It isn’t.
It’s going to get harder.
A lot harder.
The pressure, the expectations, the deadlines, the criticism, the fear. Oh man, the fear.
Everything in you wants to put your feet firmly on the ground. If you don’t, you’re certain to wipe out. Right?
Wrong!
Do. Not. Stop.
Just Keep Pedaling!
You absolutely positively must keep pedaling.
Overtime you stop it's harder to get going again.Every time you stop it’s harder to get going again, but when you keep pushing forward, you find your rhythm. Even though you’re working harder than you ever thought you could, at some point you realize that you’re doing it! You’re a pro.
Pros still take a tumble now and then, but it’s not because they quit pedaling. It’s because they were pressing ahead and crashed in the attempt. There’s nothing wrong with that. And when pros hit the ground, they know the only solution is to get up and go again.
I think this would be a great goal for the Summer of 2016—Just Keep Pedaling.
Maybe, if we do that? Maybe there will be no stopping us.
Who wants to come with me on the ride?
Don’t forget to join the conversation!
TWEETABLES
"This idea—to just keep pedaling—is also true in our #writing life." @LynnHBlackburn (Click to Tweet)
When the #writing gets tough, just keep pedaling - @LynnHBlackburn on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Lynn Huggins Blackburn believes in the power of stories, especially those that remind us that true love exists, a gift from the Truest Love. She’s passionate about CrossFit, coffee, and chocolate (don’t make her choose) and experimenting with recipes that feed both body and soul.
She lives in South Carolina with her true love, Brian, and their three children. You can follow her real life happily ever after at http://www.lynnhugginsblackburn.com.
June 1, 2016
Finding Time to Write - Don't Despise the Bits & Pieces of Time You Have Available
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
Finding Time to WriteI had always believed that I needed at least an hour, and preferably three, to make any progress at all with my writing.
I couldn’t have been more wrong.
The truth is, those small bits and pieces of time we all have add up to a lot. And wasting them can severely hamper our ability to meet deadlines and find success.
Over the years, I’ve learned how to use the time I have, even if it’s just ten minutes. Today I want to share the specific things I do to help increase my productivity when long stretches of writing time just aren't possible.Tips for Finding Time to Write1. Decide to use what you’ve got. This is the biggest part of the puzzle. If you wait for perfect circumstances, chances are you’ll never finish your book. Truthfully, things rarely line up. When they do—celebrate! When they don’t—just decide to work harder.
Have a road map of where your book and/or project is going.2. Do your pre-work.There are a couple of things I recommend you do before you start writing in those short bits of time. AND they can also be done in bits and pieces.Have a road map of where your book is going. I’ve learned that I work better from a scene map (a list of all the scenes I want to include in my book). You may not have something that detailed. But you should know what you want to write about next. After you finish a scene, before you get up, make a couple of notes about where you want to go from there.Have a foundation of research to build on. I take a few weeks, before I start writing, to do my research and compile my notes.3. Don’t overthink what you’re writing. Sometimes you’ve got to write junk before you can get to the good stuff. Beyond that, the only thing you can’t fix is an empty page. So put some words on the page and keep moving forward.
4. When you’re writing your first draft, don’t stop to research. When I only have fifteen minutes, I could waste all of it, looking up a fact I need to know. When I come to something I need, I make a note and keep writing. I can look it up after my first draft is done and I begin editing.
5. If you’re working on revisions, make a list . . . actually, make several. Make a list of things you need to look up. Also make a list of scenes you need to add. By making these lists you have a roadmap for your revisions and you don’t have to waste time figuring out what to do next.
Learning work in bits and pieces of time takes practice.These are all great tips if you’re writing a book, but what if it’s an article or something small that you’re working on? Take the principles I’ve outlined and structure your writing time, no matter what you’re working on.
Most of all, learning to work in the bits and pieces of time that life sometimes throws us takes practice. When I first started, I spent a lot of time frustrated because what I was writing didn’t measure up. But within just a couple of weeks, my frustration lessoned and productivity increased—exponentially.
Don’t assume you can’t work this way. I did, and I lost years of productivity. Instead, take a chance and learn how to keep moving forward.
Now I’d love to find out what tips do you have to work in less than ideal circumstances.
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLESThink you can't write in short bits of time? Tips to be more productive @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Finding Time to #Write - Don't Despise the Bits & Pieces of Time You Have Available @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Finding Time to WriteI had always believed that I needed at least an hour, and preferably three, to make any progress at all with my writing. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
The truth is, those small bits and pieces of time we all have add up to a lot. And wasting them can severely hamper our ability to meet deadlines and find success.
Over the years, I’ve learned how to use the time I have, even if it’s just ten minutes. Today I want to share the specific things I do to help increase my productivity when long stretches of writing time just aren't possible.Tips for Finding Time to Write1. Decide to use what you’ve got. This is the biggest part of the puzzle. If you wait for perfect circumstances, chances are you’ll never finish your book. Truthfully, things rarely line up. When they do—celebrate! When they don’t—just decide to work harder.
Have a road map of where your book and/or project is going.2. Do your pre-work.There are a couple of things I recommend you do before you start writing in those short bits of time. AND they can also be done in bits and pieces.Have a road map of where your book is going. I’ve learned that I work better from a scene map (a list of all the scenes I want to include in my book). You may not have something that detailed. But you should know what you want to write about next. After you finish a scene, before you get up, make a couple of notes about where you want to go from there.Have a foundation of research to build on. I take a few weeks, before I start writing, to do my research and compile my notes.3. Don’t overthink what you’re writing. Sometimes you’ve got to write junk before you can get to the good stuff. Beyond that, the only thing you can’t fix is an empty page. So put some words on the page and keep moving forward.4. When you’re writing your first draft, don’t stop to research. When I only have fifteen minutes, I could waste all of it, looking up a fact I need to know. When I come to something I need, I make a note and keep writing. I can look it up after my first draft is done and I begin editing.
5. If you’re working on revisions, make a list . . . actually, make several. Make a list of things you need to look up. Also make a list of scenes you need to add. By making these lists you have a roadmap for your revisions and you don’t have to waste time figuring out what to do next.
Learning work in bits and pieces of time takes practice.These are all great tips if you’re writing a book, but what if it’s an article or something small that you’re working on? Take the principles I’ve outlined and structure your writing time, no matter what you’re working on.Most of all, learning to work in the bits and pieces of time that life sometimes throws us takes practice. When I first started, I spent a lot of time frustrated because what I was writing didn’t measure up. But within just a couple of weeks, my frustration lessoned and productivity increased—exponentially.
Don’t assume you can’t work this way. I did, and I lost years of productivity. Instead, take a chance and learn how to keep moving forward.
Now I’d love to find out what tips do you have to work in less than ideal circumstances.
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLESThink you can't write in short bits of time? Tips to be more productive @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Finding Time to #Write - Don't Despise the Bits & Pieces of Time You Have Available @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
May 31, 2016
30 Days of Idea Starters for Writers - Calendar Days - June's Crazy Holidays & Special Occasions
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
It’s time again for Calendar Days. These are just fun to read. They’re also a great way to jumpstart our creativity when looking for ideas for articles and blog posts. They’re also a fun writing prompt idea.
In addition, calendar days are great conversation starters for social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, especially when two contrasting holidays fall on the same date. Here are some that tickled my funny bone this month:June 1 is National Running Day and National Barefoot Day. June 8 is National Best Friends Day and National Pick Your Poison Day. June 16 is National Fudge Day and Eat Your Veggies Day - maybe we should have chocolate declared a vegetable. Finally June 20 is World Productivity Day and Finally Summer Day
June Holidays, Special Days & Downright Crazy DaysJune is:Country Cooking MonthFight the Filthy Fly MonthRose MonthTurkey Lovers MonthAquarium MonthNational Accordion Awareness MonthSoul Food MonthDairy MonthNational Adopt a Cat MonthNational Fresh Fruit and Vegetalbes MonthCandy MonthIced Tea MonthGreat Outdoors MonthCamping Month
Weekly CelebrationsWeek 1:Fishing Week
Week 2:National Right of Way ProfessionalsEmail Week
Week 3:Week 4:
Daily CelebrationsJune 1National Running DayNational Heimlich Maneuver DayNational Pen Pal DayNational Go Barefoot DayNational Olive DayDare DayFlip a Coin DayNational Say Something Nice Day
June 2Leave the Office Earlier DayNational Rotisserie Chicken DayNational Bubba DayNational Rocky Road Day
June 3Fish and Chip dayNational Chocolate Macaroon DayChimborazo DayNational Donut DayNational Repeat Day
June 4National Trails DayNational Say Cheese DayNational Prairie DayNational Safe DayApplesauce Cake DayHug Your Cat DayNational Old Maid’s Day
June 5National Gingerbread DayNational Cancer Survivors DayWorld Environment DayHot Air Balloon Day
June 6Thank God It’s MondayNational Applesauce Cake DayNational Eyewear DayNational Higher Education DayNational Drive-In Movie DayNational Gardening Exercise DayNational Yo-Yo DayRussian Language Day
June 7National VCR DayNational Chocolate Ice Cream Day
June 8National Best Friends DayNational Name Your Poison DayWord Oceans DayNational Upsy Daisy Day
June 9National Earl DayNational Donald Duck DayNational Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Day
June 10National Black Cow DayNational Herbs and Spices DayNational Ball Point DayNational Iced Tea Day
June 11National Making Life Beautiful DayNational German Chocolate Cake DayNational Career Nurse Assistants DayNational Corn on the Cob DayWorld Doll Day
June 12National Loving DayNational Red Rose DayNational Jerky DaySuperman DayNational Peanut Butter Cookie Day
June 13National Kitchen Klutzes of America DayNational Weed Your Garden DayNational Sewing Machine Day
June 14National Pop Goes the Weasel DayNational Flag DayNational Strawberry Shortcake DayMonkey Around DayWorld Blood Donor Day
June 15Nature Photography DayNational Smile Power DayMagna Carta Day
June 16National Fudge DayFresh Veggies DayNational Dump the Pump day
June 17National Eat Your Vegetables DayNational Flip-Flop DayNational Apple Strudel Day
June 18International Picnic DayNational Hollerin’ Contest DayInternational Sushi DayNational Go Fishing DayWorld Juggling DayInternational Panic DayNational Splurge Day
June 19Father’s DayWorld Sauntering DayNational Kissing DayNational Turkey Lovers DayJuneteenthGarfield the Cat DayWorld Sickle Cell Awareness Day
June 20Finally Summer DayAmerican Eagle DayWorld Productivity DayNational Vanilla Milkshake DayNational Ice Cream Soda Day
June 21Make Music DayNational Daylight Appreciation DayInternational Yoga DayGo Skateboarding Day
June 22National Onion Rings DayNational Chocolate Éclair Day
June 23National Pink DayNational Pecan Sandies DayNational Columnists DayPublic Service DayLet it go Day
June 24Take Your Dog to Work DayNational Pralines DaySwim a Lap DayFairy Day
June 25National Strawberry Parfait DayNational Catfish DayNational Leon DayLog Cabin DayGlobal Beatles DayColor TV Day
June 26Canoe DayForgiveness DayNational Chocolate Pudding DayNational Beautician’s Day
June 27Industrial Workers of the World DayNational Sunglasses DayNational Orange Blossom DayPlease Take My Children to Work Day
June 28Tapioca DayNational Paul Bunyan DayNational Insurance Awareness DayInternational Body Piercing Day
June 29National Waffle Iron DayInternational Mud DayHug HolidayNational Almond Buttercrunch DayNational Camera Day
June 30National Meteor Watch DayNational Handshake DaySocial Media Day
Now let's do a little brainstorming for June. What are some of your favorite days from the list and how do you propose using them?
TWEETABLESUse June's crazy holidays to get the #socialmedia conversation started & spark #writing ideas - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Don't get caught without an idea,use the calendar to #write #blog posts & articles - @EdieMelson(Click to Tweet)
It’s time again for Calendar Days. These are just fun to read. They’re also a great way to jumpstart our creativity when looking for ideas for articles and blog posts. They’re also a fun writing prompt idea. In addition, calendar days are great conversation starters for social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, especially when two contrasting holidays fall on the same date. Here are some that tickled my funny bone this month:June 1 is National Running Day and National Barefoot Day. June 8 is National Best Friends Day and National Pick Your Poison Day. June 16 is National Fudge Day and Eat Your Veggies Day - maybe we should have chocolate declared a vegetable. Finally June 20 is World Productivity Day and Finally Summer Day
June Holidays, Special Days & Downright Crazy DaysJune is:Country Cooking MonthFight the Filthy Fly MonthRose MonthTurkey Lovers MonthAquarium MonthNational Accordion Awareness MonthSoul Food MonthDairy MonthNational Adopt a Cat MonthNational Fresh Fruit and Vegetalbes MonthCandy MonthIced Tea MonthGreat Outdoors MonthCamping Month
Weekly CelebrationsWeek 1:Fishing Week
Week 2:National Right of Way ProfessionalsEmail Week
Week 3:Week 4:
Daily CelebrationsJune 1National Running DayNational Heimlich Maneuver DayNational Pen Pal DayNational Go Barefoot DayNational Olive DayDare DayFlip a Coin DayNational Say Something Nice Day
June 2Leave the Office Earlier DayNational Rotisserie Chicken DayNational Bubba DayNational Rocky Road Day
June 3Fish and Chip dayNational Chocolate Macaroon DayChimborazo DayNational Donut DayNational Repeat Day
June 4National Trails DayNational Say Cheese DayNational Prairie DayNational Safe DayApplesauce Cake DayHug Your Cat DayNational Old Maid’s Day
June 5National Gingerbread DayNational Cancer Survivors DayWorld Environment DayHot Air Balloon Day
June 6Thank God It’s MondayNational Applesauce Cake DayNational Eyewear DayNational Higher Education DayNational Drive-In Movie DayNational Gardening Exercise DayNational Yo-Yo DayRussian Language Day
June 7National VCR DayNational Chocolate Ice Cream Day
June 8National Best Friends DayNational Name Your Poison DayWord Oceans DayNational Upsy Daisy Day
June 9National Earl DayNational Donald Duck DayNational Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Day
June 10National Black Cow DayNational Herbs and Spices DayNational Ball Point DayNational Iced Tea Day
June 11National Making Life Beautiful DayNational German Chocolate Cake DayNational Career Nurse Assistants DayNational Corn on the Cob DayWorld Doll Day
June 12National Loving DayNational Red Rose DayNational Jerky DaySuperman DayNational Peanut Butter Cookie Day
June 13National Kitchen Klutzes of America DayNational Weed Your Garden DayNational Sewing Machine Day
June 14National Pop Goes the Weasel DayNational Flag DayNational Strawberry Shortcake DayMonkey Around DayWorld Blood Donor Day
June 15Nature Photography DayNational Smile Power DayMagna Carta Day
June 16National Fudge DayFresh Veggies DayNational Dump the Pump day
June 17National Eat Your Vegetables DayNational Flip-Flop DayNational Apple Strudel Day
June 18International Picnic DayNational Hollerin’ Contest DayInternational Sushi DayNational Go Fishing DayWorld Juggling DayInternational Panic DayNational Splurge Day
June 19Father’s DayWorld Sauntering DayNational Kissing DayNational Turkey Lovers DayJuneteenthGarfield the Cat DayWorld Sickle Cell Awareness Day
June 20Finally Summer DayAmerican Eagle DayWorld Productivity DayNational Vanilla Milkshake DayNational Ice Cream Soda Day
June 21Make Music DayNational Daylight Appreciation DayInternational Yoga DayGo Skateboarding Day
June 22National Onion Rings DayNational Chocolate Éclair Day
June 23National Pink DayNational Pecan Sandies DayNational Columnists DayPublic Service DayLet it go Day
June 24Take Your Dog to Work DayNational Pralines DaySwim a Lap DayFairy Day
June 25National Strawberry Parfait DayNational Catfish DayNational Leon DayLog Cabin DayGlobal Beatles DayColor TV Day
June 26Canoe DayForgiveness DayNational Chocolate Pudding DayNational Beautician’s Day
June 27Industrial Workers of the World DayNational Sunglasses DayNational Orange Blossom DayPlease Take My Children to Work Day
June 28Tapioca DayNational Paul Bunyan DayNational Insurance Awareness DayInternational Body Piercing Day
June 29National Waffle Iron DayInternational Mud DayHug HolidayNational Almond Buttercrunch DayNational Camera Day
June 30National Meteor Watch DayNational Handshake DaySocial Media Day
Now let's do a little brainstorming for June. What are some of your favorite days from the list and how do you propose using them?
TWEETABLESUse June's crazy holidays to get the #socialmedia conversation started & spark #writing ideas - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Don't get caught without an idea,use the calendar to #write #blog posts & articles - @EdieMelson(Click to Tweet)
May 30, 2016
Why I Decided to Quit Social Media & You Should Too!
Yep you read that right. The Queen of social media is telling you she's QUITTING social media.
NOT permanently (thought you were going to get out of it, didn’t you!), but I'm suggesting you take a break periodically, and re-examine your plan.
I used to keep up with social every single day, whether I was home or traveling. But I’ve learned that I can’t sustain a reasonable social media schedule seven days a week, indefinitely. So I’ve given myself permission to have weekends off and to relax when I’m traveling.
Give yourself to quit for 48 hours.1. STOP. Give yourself permission to quit social media completely for forty-eight hours. Don’t announce it on Facebook, Twitter or even your blog. Just STOP.
2. Rediscover what you enjoy about social media. AFTER the forty-eight hours of rest, spend a day or two just browsing. Take time to really read a couple of blog posts, visit with friends on Facebook, or hang out on Twitter.
3. Determine what you need to accomplish with social media. Then make a plan so you can accomplish it in no more than thirty minutes a day, no more than five days a week.
Restart your social media.4. Restart your social media. Do it by sharing what you’ve learned. You can update about quitting social media, new blogs you’ve discovered, even new connections you’ve made.I recommend a minimum of four Facebook posts per working day and four Twitter updates. This is something anyone can accomplish during a quick thirty minute window.
Quick Tip: If you schedule your social media for the day in the morning, get a jump on the next morning by scheduling some of the next day’s updates in the late afternoon. A lot of blogs go live in the afternoon, so you’ll have a chance to que up some fresh material before you stop work for the day.
Now it’s your turn, what do you do when social media overwhelms you?
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLE
Why I decided to quit #socialmedia & you should too! @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
May 28, 2016
A Recap of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference Through Memes
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
As most of you know, I've spent the past week as Director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. It was an amazing week—full of inspiration and encouragement. Some of the highlights came from our keynote speakers. These are memes I created during their keynotes. It thought it would give you a glimpse of what we experienced.
"Embrace the changes in publishing and put into practice the things that are working." ~DiAnn Mills
"The odds are always in God's favor." ~James Watkins
"If we're not growing as writers, we're dead." ~Eva Marie Everson
The pearl starts as the irritant. What irritates you to write? ~Jane Jenkins Herlong
"Creativity begins with the creator." ~Alton Gansky
As most of you know, I've spent the past week as Director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. It was an amazing week—full of inspiration and encouragement. Some of the highlights came from our keynote speakers. These are memes I created during their keynotes. It thought it would give you a glimpse of what we experienced.
"Embrace the changes in publishing and put into practice the things that are working." ~DiAnn Mills
"The odds are always in God's favor." ~James Watkins
"If we're not growing as writers, we're dead." ~Eva Marie Everson
The pearl starts as the irritant. What irritates you to write? ~Jane Jenkins Herlong
"Creativity begins with the creator." ~Alton GanskyMay 27, 2016
Prayers for the Writer’s Soul
by Lori Hatcher @LoriHatcher2
I read something today that made me cry.
Not because it was sad, but because it was beautiful. One of my favorite authors and theologians, John Piper, in two paragraphs, described God. He used a simple word picture and everyday language. No Greek. No Hebrew. No plumbing the depths of his vast theological training. Just a simple example connected to a profound spiritual truth.*And I bawled like a baby.
I cried because his writing put skin on God. He took God’s lofty grandeur and brought it down to me, a very unlofty and ungrand human being. I often struggle to grasp the magnitude of God. I wonder, how can he love me? Why does he love me? To what extent does he love me?
In a few short paragraphs, Piper made God so personal that I wept with love and gratitude.
Wow.
Oh, how I want to do that.
I want to be able to describe God
so well that others are amazed.I want to be able to describe God so well that others are amazed—not by the beauty of my writing, but by the beauty of my Savior.
Father, reveal yourself to me so I can reveal You to others.
I want to share God so transparently that others feel my arms around their shoulders and know I’m walking the faith path with them, not scowling down from a lofty pinnacle.
Father, remove my fear of man and give me a healthy fear of you. Strip me of the sin of pride that wants others to see only the brightest parts of my life. Help me tell the Truth, the whole Truth, and nothing but the Truth.
I want to eliminate anything from my writing that will cause others to stumble over in their pursuit of Jesus.
Father, help me learn the craft of writing so well that nothing I write prevents my readers from understanding your truth.
I want to be so in love with God that His love splashes onto every post I write, every article I pen, and every book I create.
Father, draw me near. Keep me close. Guard my heart. Fill my mind.
I want to rest so confidently in God’s care that when I hear the enemy of my soul whispering lies, I can point to the cross and never doubt (Romans 8:32).
Father, help me say with Job, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him.”
I want to love God well, point others to Him, and glorify Him with everything I do.
If this is your prayer, too, may God hear from heaven and answer our plea.
Lord, be pleased with the work of our hands and use it to draw others to yourself.
What are your hopes for your writing? And what do you pray? Leave a comment below and join the conversation.
TWEETABLEPrayers for the Writer's Soul - @LoriHatcher2 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Lori Hatcher is a blogger, women’s ministry speaker, and the author of the Christian Small Publisher’s Book of the Year, Hungry for God … Starving for Time, Five-Minute Devotions for Busy Women. A Toastmasters International contest-winning speaker, Lori’s goal is to help busy women connect with God in the craziness of everyday life. She especially loves small children, furry animals, and chocolate. You’ll find her pondering the marvelous and the mundane on her blog, Hungry for God. . . Starving for Time . Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter (@lorihatcher2) or Pinterest (Hungry for God). *The passage I read, “Hugging God’s Neck Takes Away Fear,” is on pages 96-97 of John Piper’s latest book, What Jesus Demands from the World.
I read something today that made me cry. Not because it was sad, but because it was beautiful. One of my favorite authors and theologians, John Piper, in two paragraphs, described God. He used a simple word picture and everyday language. No Greek. No Hebrew. No plumbing the depths of his vast theological training. Just a simple example connected to a profound spiritual truth.*And I bawled like a baby.
I cried because his writing put skin on God. He took God’s lofty grandeur and brought it down to me, a very unlofty and ungrand human being. I often struggle to grasp the magnitude of God. I wonder, how can he love me? Why does he love me? To what extent does he love me?
In a few short paragraphs, Piper made God so personal that I wept with love and gratitude.
Wow.
Oh, how I want to do that.
I want to be able to describe Godso well that others are amazed.I want to be able to describe God so well that others are amazed—not by the beauty of my writing, but by the beauty of my Savior.
Father, reveal yourself to me so I can reveal You to others.
I want to share God so transparently that others feel my arms around their shoulders and know I’m walking the faith path with them, not scowling down from a lofty pinnacle.
Father, remove my fear of man and give me a healthy fear of you. Strip me of the sin of pride that wants others to see only the brightest parts of my life. Help me tell the Truth, the whole Truth, and nothing but the Truth.
I want to eliminate anything from my writing that will cause others to stumble over in their pursuit of Jesus.
Father, help me learn the craft of writing so well that nothing I write prevents my readers from understanding your truth.
I want to be so in love with God that His love splashes onto every post I write, every article I pen, and every book I create.
Father, draw me near. Keep me close. Guard my heart. Fill my mind.
I want to rest so confidently in God’s care that when I hear the enemy of my soul whispering lies, I can point to the cross and never doubt (Romans 8:32).
Father, help me say with Job, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him.”
I want to love God well, point others to Him, and glorify Him with everything I do.
If this is your prayer, too, may God hear from heaven and answer our plea.
Lord, be pleased with the work of our hands and use it to draw others to yourself.
What are your hopes for your writing? And what do you pray? Leave a comment below and join the conversation.
TWEETABLEPrayers for the Writer's Soul - @LoriHatcher2 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Lori Hatcher is a blogger, women’s ministry speaker, and the author of the Christian Small Publisher’s Book of the Year, Hungry for God … Starving for Time, Five-Minute Devotions for Busy Women. A Toastmasters International contest-winning speaker, Lori’s goal is to help busy women connect with God in the craziness of everyday life. She especially loves small children, furry animals, and chocolate. You’ll find her pondering the marvelous and the mundane on her blog, Hungry for God. . . Starving for Time . Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter (@lorihatcher2) or Pinterest (Hungry for God). *The passage I read, “Hugging God’s Neck Takes Away Fear,” is on pages 96-97 of John Piper’s latest book, What Jesus Demands from the World.
May 26, 2016
Traits of a Successful Writing Critique Group
by Henry McLaughlin @RiverBendSagas
Traits of a Writing Critique GroupI’m sure we’ve all participated in or heard stories about horrible experiences with critique groups. I’ve had a few myself. Unfortunately, I may have contributed to some of them. To any writers I did this to, I apologize.
I’ve been writing seriously for over ten years. During this time, I’ve participated in many critique groups, both on line and in person. I’m honored and humbled to serve as a writing coach or mentor over numerous groups over the years.
Besides this, I belong to a small weekly in-person group who keep me anchored and encouraged. Society of Solitary Scribes, you know who you are. And thank you.
Over the years, I’ve noticed that successful groups have character traits that distinguish them from the unsuccessful. In no particular order they are:
Honesty Members are gently honest in sharing their feedback and comments with each other. No holding back to spare someone’s feelings, yet learning to give feedback sensitively so the person can receive it without self-condemnation. And no personal attacks or attempts to dominate or make everyone write the same. Like workout partners, we help each other develop the thick skin necessary to make it in the writing world.
Encouragement The group is a place where writers give and receive encouragement and support on the writing journey. The group provides a safe and confidential environment, a place where we share triumphs and rejections, struggles and breakthroughs.
Relationships We build relationships of trust and caring. We move from group members to writing partners to friends.
Learning We learn the craft through practice and open and honest criticism. We share new insights and knowledge.
Challenging We call for each other to grow as writers. We won’t let talented writers settle for less. We won’t let struggling writers give up.
Consistency We show up on time, fully prepared to participate. We adhere to the established rules of the group and submit to the leadership. We learn the value of being writers with discipline, of meeting deadlines, of putting our butts in our chairs to write.
Safety and Trust Many authors are writing personal stories. Stories of pain, grief, abuse, addiction. Deeply.
At one group recently, an author shared how painful it was to hear someone else read her story. Not because the writing was bad but because the story was so real and alive in her still. She didn’t know if she could continue to write, never mind share it.
I encouraged her that the group was a safe place, a place we can share hurts and pains in life as well as in our writing. I believe, for this person, writing the story is part of her healing. Sharing it in the safety of a writers group will help that healing process. Even if her story is never published, it needs to be written.
What traits have you found that make for a good critique group?
TWEETABLE
Traits of a Successful #Writing Critique Group - @RiverBendSagas (Click to Tweet)
Henry’s debut novel, Journey to Riverbend, won the 2009 Operation First Novel contest.
He serves as Associate Director of North Texas Christian Writers.
Henry edits novels, leads critique groups, and teaches at conferences and workshops. He enjoys mentoring and coaching individual writers.
Connect with Henry on his blog, Twitter and Facebook.
Traits of a Writing Critique GroupI’m sure we’ve all participated in or heard stories about horrible experiences with critique groups. I’ve had a few myself. Unfortunately, I may have contributed to some of them. To any writers I did this to, I apologize.I’ve been writing seriously for over ten years. During this time, I’ve participated in many critique groups, both on line and in person. I’m honored and humbled to serve as a writing coach or mentor over numerous groups over the years.
Besides this, I belong to a small weekly in-person group who keep me anchored and encouraged. Society of Solitary Scribes, you know who you are. And thank you.
Over the years, I’ve noticed that successful groups have character traits that distinguish them from the unsuccessful. In no particular order they are:
Honesty Members are gently honest in sharing their feedback and comments with each other. No holding back to spare someone’s feelings, yet learning to give feedback sensitively so the person can receive it without self-condemnation. And no personal attacks or attempts to dominate or make everyone write the same. Like workout partners, we help each other develop the thick skin necessary to make it in the writing world.
Encouragement The group is a place where writers give and receive encouragement and support on the writing journey. The group provides a safe and confidential environment, a place where we share triumphs and rejections, struggles and breakthroughs.
Relationships We build relationships of trust and caring. We move from group members to writing partners to friends.
Learning We learn the craft through practice and open and honest criticism. We share new insights and knowledge.
Challenging We call for each other to grow as writers. We won’t let talented writers settle for less. We won’t let struggling writers give up.
Consistency We show up on time, fully prepared to participate. We adhere to the established rules of the group and submit to the leadership. We learn the value of being writers with discipline, of meeting deadlines, of putting our butts in our chairs to write.
Safety and Trust Many authors are writing personal stories. Stories of pain, grief, abuse, addiction. Deeply.
At one group recently, an author shared how painful it was to hear someone else read her story. Not because the writing was bad but because the story was so real and alive in her still. She didn’t know if she could continue to write, never mind share it.
I encouraged her that the group was a safe place, a place we can share hurts and pains in life as well as in our writing. I believe, for this person, writing the story is part of her healing. Sharing it in the safety of a writers group will help that healing process. Even if her story is never published, it needs to be written.
What traits have you found that make for a good critique group?
TWEETABLE
Traits of a Successful #Writing Critique Group - @RiverBendSagas (Click to Tweet)
Henry’s debut novel, Journey to Riverbend, won the 2009 Operation First Novel contest. He serves as Associate Director of North Texas Christian Writers.
Henry edits novels, leads critique groups, and teaches at conferences and workshops. He enjoys mentoring and coaching individual writers.
Connect with Henry on his blog, Twitter and Facebook.
May 24, 2016
Stories Have Souls That Breathe Immortality
by DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills
An unforgettable story steps beyond “Once upon a time” to a kingdom that captures the heart of a reader forever. Not every story has that golden world, and not every reader experiences the same soul-grabbing story. What lingers as a memorable novel for me may not give you an exceptional read. But what we will agree upon is the story touched us, spoke to us, and we were passionately involved in the lives of the characters and their quest. The magic kingdom is filled with rare, distinct, haunting, and extraordinary characters who accompany us to our sweet spot of remembrance. Readers and writers dream the character is real and imagine themselves joining the journey. Some readers become the hero or heroine, much like children don super-hero costumes and develop mannerisms of their favorite character.How does a writer accomplish this amazing feat? Is there a magic wand to wave over our keyboard? There’s no fairy dust in writing. It’s all hard work.
We labor to create characters who are:Multi-dimensional.Full of life.Possess authentic flaws.Solid victories.Believable strengths.
We immerse them into difficult settings.We immerse them into a setting that is determined to see the character fail by tossing rocks, swords, bullets, bombs, lies, and the hero’s worst fears into their paths. (Think Indiana Jones and his aversion to snakes.) We offer the character a way out of his predicament, but the hero refuses. When knocked down, he gets back up. When bleeding he smacks on a Band-Aid and keeps moving. When he’s defeated in battle, he understands the war is not over.
They inspire us to be better people.The characters are unique.The characters are not afraid to love or give.They are secure in who they are.They are confident in their abilities and willing to learn new skills.They accept a higher deity called God is in charge of the universe.They make mistakes and learn from them.Their appeal is shown in their response to life’s challenges.They inspire us to be better people.They offer hope in a world that threatens our peace of mind.
Is a writer always successful in establishing the immortal character? Unfortunately, not. But we never give up because it’s in our DNA for each book to be better written than the previous one. We writers are committed to our craft, so that our stories and their characters will live forever in a reader’s mind and heart.
How do your characters show heart?
TWEETABLE
Stories have souls that breathe immortality - @DiAnnMills on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She combines unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels.
Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. Library Journal presented her with a Best Books 2014: Genre Fiction award in the Christian Fiction category for Firewall.
DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers; a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association; International Thriller Writers, and the Faith, Hope, and Love chapter of Romance Writers of America. She is co-director of The Author Roadmap with social media specialist Edie Melson where she continues her passion of helping other writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country.
DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.
DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms listed at www.diannmills.com.
An unforgettable story steps beyond “Once upon a time” to a kingdom that captures the heart of a reader forever. Not every story has that golden world, and not every reader experiences the same soul-grabbing story. What lingers as a memorable novel for me may not give you an exceptional read. But what we will agree upon is the story touched us, spoke to us, and we were passionately involved in the lives of the characters and their quest. The magic kingdom is filled with rare, distinct, haunting, and extraordinary characters who accompany us to our sweet spot of remembrance. Readers and writers dream the character is real and imagine themselves joining the journey. Some readers become the hero or heroine, much like children don super-hero costumes and develop mannerisms of their favorite character.How does a writer accomplish this amazing feat? Is there a magic wand to wave over our keyboard? There’s no fairy dust in writing. It’s all hard work.We labor to create characters who are:Multi-dimensional.Full of life.Possess authentic flaws.Solid victories.Believable strengths.
We immerse them into difficult settings.We immerse them into a setting that is determined to see the character fail by tossing rocks, swords, bullets, bombs, lies, and the hero’s worst fears into their paths. (Think Indiana Jones and his aversion to snakes.) We offer the character a way out of his predicament, but the hero refuses. When knocked down, he gets back up. When bleeding he smacks on a Band-Aid and keeps moving. When he’s defeated in battle, he understands the war is not over.
They inspire us to be better people.The characters are unique.The characters are not afraid to love or give.They are secure in who they are.They are confident in their abilities and willing to learn new skills.They accept a higher deity called God is in charge of the universe.They make mistakes and learn from them.Their appeal is shown in their response to life’s challenges.They inspire us to be better people.They offer hope in a world that threatens our peace of mind.Is a writer always successful in establishing the immortal character? Unfortunately, not. But we never give up because it’s in our DNA for each book to be better written than the previous one. We writers are committed to our craft, so that our stories and their characters will live forever in a reader’s mind and heart.
How do your characters show heart?
TWEETABLE
Stories have souls that breathe immortality - @DiAnnMills on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She combines unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels.
Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. Library Journal presented her with a Best Books 2014: Genre Fiction award in the Christian Fiction category for Firewall.
DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers; a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association; International Thriller Writers, and the Faith, Hope, and Love chapter of Romance Writers of America. She is co-director of The Author Roadmap with social media specialist Edie Melson where she continues her passion of helping other writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country.
DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.
DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms listed at www.diannmills.com.
