Edie Melson's Blog, page 419
March 8, 2014
Social Media Image—Patience
Patience . . .
We all need it and we all abhor it.
God has used patience to refine my character in ways I never thought possible. It's been incredibly painful and a blessing beyond belief as I've watched my hopes and dreams begin to come to fruition.
How has God used patience to answer the cry of your heart?
Teach us. O Lord, the disciplines of patience, for to wait is often harder than to work. - Peter MarshallShare your thoughts in the comment section below.
I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
We all need it and we all abhor it.
God has used patience to refine my character in ways I never thought possible. It's been incredibly painful and a blessing beyond belief as I've watched my hopes and dreams begin to come to fruition.
How has God used patience to answer the cry of your heart?
Teach us. O Lord, the disciplines of patience, for to wait is often harder than to work. - Peter MarshallShare your thoughts in the comment section below. I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
March 7, 2014
Independent Publishing—Self-Publishing is all Grown Up
by Edie Melson
Self-publishing is all grown up.There was a time, many years ago, that I would have much rather remained unpublished rather than admit to self-publishing. Back then the companies who charged you to publish your work were referred to as Vanity Publishers. Many of those companies charged thousands of dollars and left the author with boxes and boxes of questionable books.
Not any more.
Today's independent author has many options.Self-publishing is all grown up. There are lots more options for writers today—from full-service companies to do-it-yourself print on demand. Today’s independent author (the new term for writers who choose to chart their own course) has lots of choices when it comes to producing our own books.
Beyond that, the overall standard that a self-published book must meet has risen. Authors have recognized the value of engaging editors to ensure the resulting book is held to comparable standard we used to only find in traditionally published books.
And have you see the covers?
This is an upcoming book from
Charity Tinnin, one of my crit partners.The book covers on independent books are stellar. They’re imaginative, compelling and add to the first impression. They truly reflect the excellence within these books. It may still be difficult to find all the independent options at your local brick and mortar store, but that too is changing. And I guarantee you can’t tell the self-pubbed from the traditionally pubbed.
These savvy independent authors are often on the front line of publishing. Many of them are what’s known as hybrid authors. They have some books that are traditionally published and others they’ve published themselves.
But they have one thing in common, they’ve learned how to find and engage their audience. Independent authors have a fiercely loyal following of readers, and there is a lot we can learn from them when it comes to marketing. They know how to use the tools available to the twenty-first century wordsmith, utilizing social media and the power of the world wide web.
Even with all the hats an independent author must wear, at the core of every successful book is a writer who has taken time to learn the craft. Self-publishing has never been a viable short-cut, although many have tried to use it that way.
In addition, today’s reader is savvy. They aren’t taken in by a substandard product. There are too many choices out there for them to waste time on a writer who doesn’t bother to learn how to write. The bar is set high, and excellence matters when an author ventures into this arena.
I have some places on the web where I like to go for tips and tricks to navigating the independent author’s life. Today I’m going to share a few with you. I don’t read every article on all of these websites and some are very secular in nature, so be warned.http://www.indieauthornews.comhttp://...
But I really want you to add to the list. Where do you go to get the 411 on Indie Publishing? Leave your suggestions in the comments section below.
Don’t forget to join the conversationBlessings,Edie
TWEETABLESSelf-publishing - no longer ashort-cut for authors – today’s readers expect excellence – via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Independent publishing – self-publishing’s grown up.How do you feel about the new options? via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Self-publishing is all grown up.There was a time, many years ago, that I would have much rather remained unpublished rather than admit to self-publishing. Back then the companies who charged you to publish your work were referred to as Vanity Publishers. Many of those companies charged thousands of dollars and left the author with boxes and boxes of questionable books.Not any more.
Today's independent author has many options.Self-publishing is all grown up. There are lots more options for writers today—from full-service companies to do-it-yourself print on demand. Today’s independent author (the new term for writers who choose to chart their own course) has lots of choices when it comes to producing our own books. Beyond that, the overall standard that a self-published book must meet has risen. Authors have recognized the value of engaging editors to ensure the resulting book is held to comparable standard we used to only find in traditionally published books.
And have you see the covers?
This is an upcoming book fromCharity Tinnin, one of my crit partners.The book covers on independent books are stellar. They’re imaginative, compelling and add to the first impression. They truly reflect the excellence within these books. It may still be difficult to find all the independent options at your local brick and mortar store, but that too is changing. And I guarantee you can’t tell the self-pubbed from the traditionally pubbed.
These savvy independent authors are often on the front line of publishing. Many of them are what’s known as hybrid authors. They have some books that are traditionally published and others they’ve published themselves.
But they have one thing in common, they’ve learned how to find and engage their audience. Independent authors have a fiercely loyal following of readers, and there is a lot we can learn from them when it comes to marketing. They know how to use the tools available to the twenty-first century wordsmith, utilizing social media and the power of the world wide web.
Even with all the hats an independent author must wear, at the core of every successful book is a writer who has taken time to learn the craft. Self-publishing has never been a viable short-cut, although many have tried to use it that way. In addition, today’s reader is savvy. They aren’t taken in by a substandard product. There are too many choices out there for them to waste time on a writer who doesn’t bother to learn how to write. The bar is set high, and excellence matters when an author ventures into this arena.
I have some places on the web where I like to go for tips and tricks to navigating the independent author’s life. Today I’m going to share a few with you. I don’t read every article on all of these websites and some are very secular in nature, so be warned.http://www.indieauthornews.comhttp://...
But I really want you to add to the list. Where do you go to get the 411 on Indie Publishing? Leave your suggestions in the comments section below.
Don’t forget to join the conversationBlessings,Edie
TWEETABLESSelf-publishing - no longer ashort-cut for authors – today’s readers expect excellence – via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Independent publishing – self-publishing’s grown up.How do you feel about the new options? via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
March 6, 2014
Thursday Review—The Art You Were Meant to Live
by Lynn H. Blackburn
I just finished re-reading
A Million Little Ways
by Emily P. Freeman. I’ve dog-eared and highlighted half of the book. The last lines brought me to tears. Again.
A Million Little Ways isn’t a book on the craft. It isn’t even specifically a book for writers. It is, as the subtitle says, a book that seeks to help you “uncover the art you were made to live.” I have recommended this book to friends whose art varies from baking to decorating and from music to mothering. But if you have even the slightest inkling that your art is writing, you are going to see yourself in every chapter. Maybe on every page.
In Part 1: Who is the Artist? Emily Freeman lays out a beautiful argument for why every person created in the image of God is both art and artist, poem and poet. And what writer doesn’t want to see themselves as a poem?
In Part 2: Uncover the Art You Were Born to Make, there are five steps to help us discover what type of artist we are and what might be holding us back. As a writer, I found myself nodding along with the chapters that focus on discovering how you’re wired. After all, I’m all in favor of anything that confirms my desire and passion for writing.
But then I hit the parts about what might be holding us back. That’s when my nodding slowed and my highlighter went into overdrive.
If you’ve ever struggled with facing the criticism that comes with writing then Chapter 6 - See is worth the cost of the book. Although, I should warn you, if you’re looking for a self-help type chapter, this isn’t it. This is a soul-searching chapter, with passages that like this one from page 93: “Even after all the growing up I’ve done, I want to please man more than I want to trust God. The bottom line is, I’m a glory hog. I don’t want to reflect the image of God, I want to embody it. And that is why I fear the critics.” Or this one from page 96: “It isn’t the critics fault I’m desperate for worth and security and approval and permission.”
Ouch.
There’s so much more in Part 2. Great thoughts on why our art matters and why it’s vital that we release it into the world in order to draw others to God. I’d tell you all about it, but this review is already way too long!
Part 3: Release the Art You Were Made to Liveencourages us to start releasing our art into the world right now, in the stage of life we are in, and gives some practical advice on how to make that happen. There’s also a great section on how to handle it when we are all ready to go, but find ourselves in a prolonged stage of waiting.
The book ends with a beautiful manifesto, a call to be fully alive, to glorify God through our art—whatever that art may be. The words are vibrating in my spirit, calling me to a place I long to be as a writer, mother, friend, and most importantly, as an image bearer of the Creator.
So what do you think of the idea that your art is important? Does that terrify you? Thrill you? Do you agree?
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Lynn
TWEETABLESHave you uncovered the art you were meant to live? @LynnHBlackburn shares a book for you on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Did you know that as a writer, you're an artist? @LynnHBlackburn reviews a book for you on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Lynn Huggins Blackburn has been telling herself stories since she was five and finally started writing them down. She blogs about faith, family, and her writing journey on her blog Out of the Boat. Lynn is a member of the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild and the Word Weavers, Greenville. She lives in South Carolina where she hangs out with three lively children, one fabulous man, and a cast of imaginary characters who find their way onto the pages of her still unpublished novels. She drinks a lot of coffee.
I just finished re-reading
A Million Little Ways
by Emily P. Freeman. I’ve dog-eared and highlighted half of the book. The last lines brought me to tears. Again. A Million Little Ways isn’t a book on the craft. It isn’t even specifically a book for writers. It is, as the subtitle says, a book that seeks to help you “uncover the art you were made to live.” I have recommended this book to friends whose art varies from baking to decorating and from music to mothering. But if you have even the slightest inkling that your art is writing, you are going to see yourself in every chapter. Maybe on every page.
In Part 1: Who is the Artist? Emily Freeman lays out a beautiful argument for why every person created in the image of God is both art and artist, poem and poet. And what writer doesn’t want to see themselves as a poem?
In Part 2: Uncover the Art You Were Born to Make, there are five steps to help us discover what type of artist we are and what might be holding us back. As a writer, I found myself nodding along with the chapters that focus on discovering how you’re wired. After all, I’m all in favor of anything that confirms my desire and passion for writing.But then I hit the parts about what might be holding us back. That’s when my nodding slowed and my highlighter went into overdrive.
If you’ve ever struggled with facing the criticism that comes with writing then Chapter 6 - See is worth the cost of the book. Although, I should warn you, if you’re looking for a self-help type chapter, this isn’t it. This is a soul-searching chapter, with passages that like this one from page 93: “Even after all the growing up I’ve done, I want to please man more than I want to trust God. The bottom line is, I’m a glory hog. I don’t want to reflect the image of God, I want to embody it. And that is why I fear the critics.” Or this one from page 96: “It isn’t the critics fault I’m desperate for worth and security and approval and permission.”Ouch.
There’s so much more in Part 2. Great thoughts on why our art matters and why it’s vital that we release it into the world in order to draw others to God. I’d tell you all about it, but this review is already way too long!
Part 3: Release the Art You Were Made to Liveencourages us to start releasing our art into the world right now, in the stage of life we are in, and gives some practical advice on how to make that happen. There’s also a great section on how to handle it when we are all ready to go, but find ourselves in a prolonged stage of waiting.
The book ends with a beautiful manifesto, a call to be fully alive, to glorify God through our art—whatever that art may be. The words are vibrating in my spirit, calling me to a place I long to be as a writer, mother, friend, and most importantly, as an image bearer of the Creator.
So what do you think of the idea that your art is important? Does that terrify you? Thrill you? Do you agree?
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Lynn
TWEETABLESHave you uncovered the art you were meant to live? @LynnHBlackburn shares a book for you on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Did you know that as a writer, you're an artist? @LynnHBlackburn reviews a book for you on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Lynn Huggins Blackburn has been telling herself stories since she was five and finally started writing them down. She blogs about faith, family, and her writing journey on her blog Out of the Boat. Lynn is a member of the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild and the Word Weavers, Greenville. She lives in South Carolina where she hangs out with three lively children, one fabulous man, and a cast of imaginary characters who find their way onto the pages of her still unpublished novels. She drinks a lot of coffee.March 4, 2014
A New Chapter in My Writing Life
by Edie Melson
As writers we sometimes get to do really cool things!Over the course of my writing career, I’ve gotten to do a lot of pretty cool things. This past week I’ve been teaching at the Florida Christian Writers Conference and I got to sit and visit with the editor who purchased by very first article during my first time at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. The editor was Jesse Florea of Focus on the Family.It was great to hang out with Jesse, but what was even cooler was the story he shared. At that same BRMCWC, he had also bought articles from three other new writers—and we were all on staff this past week in Florida.
I just love the way God works.
Today is another milestone for me. I mentioned last week in my Writer’s Bucket List post that one of the things I've always wanted to do was write for Guideposts. Well today I’m beginning as a regular blogger on their site. I’ll be the military family blogger and I’ll be posting twice a week—Tuesday and Friday.
A Marine holding his mother's hand during a ceremony.The blog is called,
While They Serve
, and it has a two-fold purpose. This blog is a gathering place for military families and friends. We offer support and encouragement from the perspective of those who have been where you are. It's also a place for others to learn how to offer positive support to military families during their times of service.
I’d love your help spreading the word about my new endeavor. My post today on the Guideposts site is an introduction to my own journey with a son in the Marine Corps. It’s also a victory, reminding me that God doesn’t let anything—not even pain and hardship—go to waste in the life of a writer.
How have the hard times in your life been reflected in your writing? I’d love to hear about your victories!
Don’t forget to join the conversation,Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLESFrequently the hard times in a writer's life are reflected in our writing victories! @EdieMelson shares hers. (Click to Tweet)
How have your difficulties been reflected in your writing? @EdieMelson gives you the opportunity to share. (Click to Tweet)
As writers we sometimes get to do really cool things!Over the course of my writing career, I’ve gotten to do a lot of pretty cool things. This past week I’ve been teaching at the Florida Christian Writers Conference and I got to sit and visit with the editor who purchased by very first article during my first time at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. The editor was Jesse Florea of Focus on the Family.It was great to hang out with Jesse, but what was even cooler was the story he shared. At that same BRMCWC, he had also bought articles from three other new writers—and we were all on staff this past week in Florida.I just love the way God works.
Today is another milestone for me. I mentioned last week in my Writer’s Bucket List post that one of the things I've always wanted to do was write for Guideposts. Well today I’m beginning as a regular blogger on their site. I’ll be the military family blogger and I’ll be posting twice a week—Tuesday and Friday.
A Marine holding his mother's hand during a ceremony.The blog is called,
While They Serve
, and it has a two-fold purpose. This blog is a gathering place for military families and friends. We offer support and encouragement from the perspective of those who have been where you are. It's also a place for others to learn how to offer positive support to military families during their times of service.I’d love your help spreading the word about my new endeavor. My post today on the Guideposts site is an introduction to my own journey with a son in the Marine Corps. It’s also a victory, reminding me that God doesn’t let anything—not even pain and hardship—go to waste in the life of a writer.
How have the hard times in your life been reflected in your writing? I’d love to hear about your victories!
Don’t forget to join the conversation,Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLESFrequently the hard times in a writer's life are reflected in our writing victories! @EdieMelson shares hers. (Click to Tweet)
How have your difficulties been reflected in your writing? @EdieMelson gives you the opportunity to share. (Click to Tweet)
March 3, 2014
Social Media Monday—A List of Social Media Platforms and How They're Used
by Edie Melson
I've shared a breakdown of social media platforms, along with how they’re used, on my blog in the past. But things change frequently in the digital world so it’s time for an update.
When we know what the focus of particular network is, it’s easier to evaluate if it’s a valuable addition to our personal plan.
So today I’m sharing a new list of social media platforms and how they’re used.
FACEBOOK: This platform prides itself on being a network that’s socially driven. It allows people to connect in an informal setting, using photos, videos, and text content to interact with friends, family, and lastly, businesses. Median Age: 46-51Engagement: driven by how many comments, shares and likes a specific update receives.Edie's Notes: One of the largest platforms and one of the most clunky. The differentiation between user, creator and advertiser is not well-defined, leading to a difficult medium to gain traction in any but a social-driven focus.
TWITTER: This is a text driven platform, although it is possible to share images and videos. Users are encouraged to interact in microbursts of information with a 140 character limit. There is more meaningful interaction than might first be imagined.Median Age: 20-30Engagement: driven by hashtags and retweets.Edie's Notes: A well-developed chain of connections dominates the value of this network. Utilize the lingo, including hashtags, and it’s simple to engage and grow a fan base.
PINTEREST: This platform is an image driven network that allows users to pin images from the web to virtual bulletin boards. Users are primarily women, and especially popular in the Midwest and southern areas. Median Age: 28-35Engagement: driven by repins and follows.Edie's Notes: Although there are a lot of uses for writers and businesses, this is still primarily a site driven by the female psyche. But do not underestimate this platform, it is, and has been for over a year, the fasted growing platform on the web.
INSTAGRAM: This is primarily an image driven platform. Users snap photos, apply special image filters, and even text overlays. They share these images with followers, as well as over other social media networks like Facebook and Pinterest.Median Age: 18-25Engagement: driven by image quality and likes, as well as hashtags.Edie's Notes: This network is a great way to connect with the younger crowd. The general user is open to finding new connections and eager to share images that resonate.
YOUTUBE: This video driven platform is a place where users can view, upload and share videos. Users can create their own channel and subscribe to others as a way of interaction and engagement.Median Age: depends on contentEngagement: driven by subscriptions and shares. Edie's Notes: This is a network that understands how thing work. There are clear definitions of creator, user, and advertiser. I think this is an under utilized network for writers and bloggers.
GOOGLE +: This is what’s known as an integrated social network. It has multiple ways to connect and engage, including everything from video chats to streams of information. Users can connect with others through text, images, and video.Median Age: 30-50Engagement: driven by categorizing connections into ‘circles’ of influence.Edie's Notes: This network tends to attract a more techie crowd. But I still have high hopes that it will someday augment and/or replace the Facebook users.
LINKEDIN: This is a business platform. Users can strengthen and connect with others within their own sphere of influence. The tone on this platform is generally more formal and business focused than other networks.Median Age: 30-50Engagement: driven by established connections.Edie's Notes: This network is generally most valuable to freelance writers and speakers, rather than novelists.
These are the main networks that are useful for engagement. This is NOT an exhaustive list, and it contains my personal opinion of what works and what doesn’t with each one. Yesterday I did some research and discovered approximately 201 social media platforms. That number changes daily.
I’d love to know what network(s) are your favorites and why. Just share your thoughts in the comments section below.
And don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
Important Note: This post is only an informational post. I'm NOT changing my advice. I still think it's only necessary for writers to have Facebook and Twitter. Anything you want to add beyond that is fine, but that is the foundation to build from. Whatever you choose, be sure to restrict your major social media to no more than 30 minutes per day.
TWEETABLESAre you utilizing the best social media network(s) for your goals? @EdieMelson has the info you need. (Click to Tweet)
A valuable list of top, current social media networks and how they’re best used – via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
I've shared a breakdown of social media platforms, along with how they’re used, on my blog in the past. But things change frequently in the digital world so it’s time for an update. When we know what the focus of particular network is, it’s easier to evaluate if it’s a valuable addition to our personal plan.
So today I’m sharing a new list of social media platforms and how they’re used.
FACEBOOK: This platform prides itself on being a network that’s socially driven. It allows people to connect in an informal setting, using photos, videos, and text content to interact with friends, family, and lastly, businesses. Median Age: 46-51Engagement: driven by how many comments, shares and likes a specific update receives.Edie's Notes: One of the largest platforms and one of the most clunky. The differentiation between user, creator and advertiser is not well-defined, leading to a difficult medium to gain traction in any but a social-driven focus.
TWITTER: This is a text driven platform, although it is possible to share images and videos. Users are encouraged to interact in microbursts of information with a 140 character limit. There is more meaningful interaction than might first be imagined.Median Age: 20-30Engagement: driven by hashtags and retweets.Edie's Notes: A well-developed chain of connections dominates the value of this network. Utilize the lingo, including hashtags, and it’s simple to engage and grow a fan base.PINTEREST: This platform is an image driven network that allows users to pin images from the web to virtual bulletin boards. Users are primarily women, and especially popular in the Midwest and southern areas. Median Age: 28-35Engagement: driven by repins and follows.Edie's Notes: Although there are a lot of uses for writers and businesses, this is still primarily a site driven by the female psyche. But do not underestimate this platform, it is, and has been for over a year, the fasted growing platform on the web.
INSTAGRAM: This is primarily an image driven platform. Users snap photos, apply special image filters, and even text overlays. They share these images with followers, as well as over other social media networks like Facebook and Pinterest.Median Age: 18-25Engagement: driven by image quality and likes, as well as hashtags.Edie's Notes: This network is a great way to connect with the younger crowd. The general user is open to finding new connections and eager to share images that resonate.YOUTUBE: This video driven platform is a place where users can view, upload and share videos. Users can create their own channel and subscribe to others as a way of interaction and engagement.Median Age: depends on contentEngagement: driven by subscriptions and shares. Edie's Notes: This is a network that understands how thing work. There are clear definitions of creator, user, and advertiser. I think this is an under utilized network for writers and bloggers.
GOOGLE +: This is what’s known as an integrated social network. It has multiple ways to connect and engage, including everything from video chats to streams of information. Users can connect with others through text, images, and video.Median Age: 30-50Engagement: driven by categorizing connections into ‘circles’ of influence.Edie's Notes: This network tends to attract a more techie crowd. But I still have high hopes that it will someday augment and/or replace the Facebook users.LINKEDIN: This is a business platform. Users can strengthen and connect with others within their own sphere of influence. The tone on this platform is generally more formal and business focused than other networks.Median Age: 30-50Engagement: driven by established connections.Edie's Notes: This network is generally most valuable to freelance writers and speakers, rather than novelists.
These are the main networks that are useful for engagement. This is NOT an exhaustive list, and it contains my personal opinion of what works and what doesn’t with each one. Yesterday I did some research and discovered approximately 201 social media platforms. That number changes daily.
I’d love to know what network(s) are your favorites and why. Just share your thoughts in the comments section below.
And don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
Important Note: This post is only an informational post. I'm NOT changing my advice. I still think it's only necessary for writers to have Facebook and Twitter. Anything you want to add beyond that is fine, but that is the foundation to build from. Whatever you choose, be sure to restrict your major social media to no more than 30 minutes per day.
TWEETABLESAre you utilizing the best social media network(s) for your goals? @EdieMelson has the info you need. (Click to Tweet)
A valuable list of top, current social media networks and how they’re best used – via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
March 2, 2014
Weekend Worship—Into the Storm
On that day, when evening came, He said to them, “Let us go over to the other side.” Leaving the crowd, they took Him along with them in the boat, just as He was; and other boats were with Him. And there arose a fierce gale of wind, and the waves were breaking over the boat so much that the boat was already filling up. Mark 4:35-38
I’ve always known the storms of life would come. I also never believed that being a believer would guarantee me a life free from friction.
But I never clued into the fact that sometimes being in the middle of God’s perfect will would propel me into hurricane force winds.
Somehow I had developed the idea that God’s will was a safe haven. That when I was there, I’d be protected. Oh I knew the enemy would throw the weight of his frustration against me, but I still felt like God would direct me safely around and through his attacks.
But this passage above (and several others) show Jesus directing the disciples right into the teeth of danger. They obeyed, without the slightest hesitation, and still ended up in the midst of chaos.
As I considered all the implications of this passage it finally dawned on me that these storms have a purpose—a God-driven purpose. He sends me into these crazy difficult situations to strengthen me and to give me a foundation for my faith. Every time my own boat seems swamped and danger surrounds me, He’s there. He calms the waves of chaos when I turn to Him, each time making my faith stronger and more unshakable.
I’ve always known the storms of life would come. I also never believed that being a believer would guarantee me a life free from friction.But I never clued into the fact that sometimes being in the middle of God’s perfect will would propel me into hurricane force winds.
Somehow I had developed the idea that God’s will was a safe haven. That when I was there, I’d be protected. Oh I knew the enemy would throw the weight of his frustration against me, but I still felt like God would direct me safely around and through his attacks.
But this passage above (and several others) show Jesus directing the disciples right into the teeth of danger. They obeyed, without the slightest hesitation, and still ended up in the midst of chaos.As I considered all the implications of this passage it finally dawned on me that these storms have a purpose—a God-driven purpose. He sends me into these crazy difficult situations to strengthen me and to give me a foundation for my faith. Every time my own boat seems swamped and danger surrounds me, He’s there. He calms the waves of chaos when I turn to Him, each time making my faith stronger and more unshakable.
March 1, 2014
Social Media Image—Stillness
I was fascinated by this quote and the thought of moving in peace. What does that mean to you?
"Being still does not mean don't move. It means, move in peace." - E'yen A GardenerShare your thoughts in the comment section below.
I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
"Being still does not mean don't move. It means, move in peace." - E'yen A GardenerShare your thoughts in the comment section below. I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
February 28, 2014
One Writer’s Bucket List
by Edie Melson
Isn’t it funny how certain phrases become part of the vernacular? One phrase I find myself using fairly often is
Bucket List
. For me, it denotes more than just a wish, these are goals and dreams that I’d like to accomplish before I kick the bucket.
I had the opportunity to hear Debbie Macomber speak at ACFW in 2008. One of the things she said that stuck with me was to make a list—a crazy, I’ll-never-in-a-million-years-accomplish-this list—and write it down. She shared how she had done that, and been able to cross off almost everything on that list.
She inspired me, and today I’m sharing the list I started that night, when I got back up to my hotel room.
My list isn’t numbered, or even in any particular order. Also, these are the things on my Bucket List that pertain to writing. I have other things on the list, but they don’t necessarily pertain to writing.
Writer's Bucket List
Publish a book, then another, and another and...well, you get the idea—this one came to fruition in 2011, with FIGHTING FEAR: WINNING THE WAR AT HOME WHEN YOUR SOLDIER LEAVES FOR BATTLE. Thank you Eddie Jones and Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas.Have books on the shelf in every bookstore—independent and chain stores—still not there. Any bookstore can order my book, but few stock it.Have a book signing in Barnes & Noble—I was able to do this in the summer of 2012, in Jackson Mississippi. It was one of the most disappointing experiences ever. We’d ordered my books to have on hand and through a shipping snafu, they didn’t arrive. So I sat at Barnes and Noble, with business cards and fliers, but no books.
Teach at a writers conference—this one came in 2009, when I was on staff at a writers conference that gave me my start in the industry—the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.Direct a writers conference—I’m now the co-director of that conference, thanks to the generosity and friendship of Alton Gansky (the director)Write for Guideposts—can I have a drumroll please…I just signed a contract to write two blogs posts a week for Guideposts.org. I’ll be sharing all the details soon, including a link to the blog.Win an award for my blog—this one came this year. Thank you to The Positive Writer!Get a job as a managing editor of a magazine—I was fortunate to have the opportunity to be the managing editor of a start-up magazine for young, Christian men, Centered Mag. Unfortunately it's no longer in publication, but it was a great experience and one I'm so grateful to have had.Get a Literary Agent—In 2012 I signed with my agent, Jessica Kirkland, with the The Blythe Daniel Agency!
Reach 10,000 Twitter followers—I worked hard for this one and reached it last year.Have a New York Times best seller—I’m still hoping this will come to pass in the future.Have a TV movie made from one of my books—another one I’m waiting for.Keynote at a writers conference—I was able to do this in 2012, again at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.Co-author a book with Michelle Medlock Adams—I got to teach with this lady back in 2009/10 and discovered a sister of the soul. I’m praying for an opportunity to work on at least one project with this amazing woman!I’ve shared some of my goals/dreams with you. I’d love to hear what’s on your Writing Bucket List.
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLEDo you have a Writer's Bucket List? @EdieMelson her list and why you need one too! (Click to Tweet)
Isn’t it funny how certain phrases become part of the vernacular? One phrase I find myself using fairly often is
Bucket List
. For me, it denotes more than just a wish, these are goals and dreams that I’d like to accomplish before I kick the bucket. I had the opportunity to hear Debbie Macomber speak at ACFW in 2008. One of the things she said that stuck with me was to make a list—a crazy, I’ll-never-in-a-million-years-accomplish-this list—and write it down. She shared how she had done that, and been able to cross off almost everything on that list.
She inspired me, and today I’m sharing the list I started that night, when I got back up to my hotel room.
My list isn’t numbered, or even in any particular order. Also, these are the things on my Bucket List that pertain to writing. I have other things on the list, but they don’t necessarily pertain to writing.
Writer's Bucket List
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Publish a book, then another, and another and...well, you get the idea—this one came to fruition in 2011, with FIGHTING FEAR: WINNING THE WAR AT HOME WHEN YOUR SOLDIER LEAVES FOR BATTLE. Thank you Eddie Jones and Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas.Have books on the shelf in every bookstore—independent and chain stores—still not there. Any bookstore can order my book, but few stock it.Have a book signing in Barnes & Noble—I was able to do this in the summer of 2012, in Jackson Mississippi. It was one of the most disappointing experiences ever. We’d ordered my books to have on hand and through a shipping snafu, they didn’t arrive. So I sat at Barnes and Noble, with business cards and fliers, but no books.
Teach at a writers conference—this one came in 2009, when I was on staff at a writers conference that gave me my start in the industry—the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.Direct a writers conference—I’m now the co-director of that conference, thanks to the generosity and friendship of Alton Gansky (the director)Write for Guideposts—can I have a drumroll please…I just signed a contract to write two blogs posts a week for Guideposts.org. I’ll be sharing all the details soon, including a link to the blog.Win an award for my blog—this one came this year. Thank you to The Positive Writer!Get a job as a managing editor of a magazine—I was fortunate to have the opportunity to be the managing editor of a start-up magazine for young, Christian men, Centered Mag. Unfortunately it's no longer in publication, but it was a great experience and one I'm so grateful to have had.Get a Literary Agent—In 2012 I signed with my agent, Jessica Kirkland, with the The Blythe Daniel Agency!
Reach 10,000 Twitter followers—I worked hard for this one and reached it last year.Have a New York Times best seller—I’m still hoping this will come to pass in the future.Have a TV movie made from one of my books—another one I’m waiting for.Keynote at a writers conference—I was able to do this in 2012, again at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.Co-author a book with Michelle Medlock Adams—I got to teach with this lady back in 2009/10 and discovered a sister of the soul. I’m praying for an opportunity to work on at least one project with this amazing woman!I’ve shared some of my goals/dreams with you. I’d love to hear what’s on your Writing Bucket List.Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLEDo you have a Writer's Bucket List? @EdieMelson her list and why you need one too! (Click to Tweet)
February 27, 2014
How to be a Top Blogger
A Guest Post by Joel Key
You might be wondering what I mean by being a top blogger.
Well, I don’t mean that that you have to have 100,000 subscribers to be considered a top blogger, or that you have to be making huge sums of money through courses and affiliate sales to be doing a good job. Although these things would be nice.
The question is, how do the top bloggers become the personalities that we all and love, and how can you become one too?
How can you create a legion of adoring fans that hang off your every word?
Well the answer isn’t cut and dry, although I’ll help to fill in one piece of the puzzle.
What top bloggers know
It’s tempting to think that the best bloggers are omnipotent entities who’ve grown their blogs organically from day one through sizzling content and wild-fire, word-of-mouth marketing.They’re not.
They started small, worked extremely hard, and made lots of mistakes. They suffered from growing pains like the rest.
For even the very best bloggers, it wasn’t plain sailing.
But even during their early days, these bloggers attracted dedicated readers, and supportive communities.
So how did they do it?
Honesty
Sure, part of the reason is that they write great content, promote the hell out of it, and make excellent connections in their niche.
But, there’s more.
Top bloggers are honest, and they write with integrity.
They’re real.
They don’t sugarcoat their troubles, telling their readers they’re doing brilliantly.
Instead they publish their woes for the world to see, hopeful they can use their difficulties to teach and inspire their readers.
They know that being human, and being flawed, is their best asset. Readers can relate to that.They aren’t some faceless, corporate entity with a business strategy, but just normal people, trying to write helpful content for their followers.
They’re self effacing, and happy to acknowledge they don’t have all the answers.We can all empathise with that.
Some of the best posts ever written are about bloggers overcoming adversity, or learning from their mistakes.
It shows character, and reflects the kind of positive change we’re all looking to make in our lives.
Keep it real
The modern Internet contains too many self confessed experts, who pretend to have all the answers.Real bloggers don’t have to pretend.
They’re honest about their limitations, and are happy to publish their aborted endeavours and most embarrassing failures. They provide an accurate reflection of life in all its glorious colors.
They create audiences that rejoice in their success and commiserate them in failure.Symbiotic communities.
Learn from your failures by writing about them. Inspire your followers, and take solace from their unwavering support.
Be a top blogger.
TWEETABLES
Top bloggers are real and they write with integrity - two tips from @Joelkey.com on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
The tips you need to becoming a top blogger from @joelkey.com on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Author bio
Joel Key is a writer, journalist and blogger. When he’s not indulging his passion for motorcycle adventure, he’s finding inspiration through writing over at www.joelkey.com. Pick up a free copy of his ‘Change Manifesto’ today.
Joel has just created a new campaign on his site called WRITE FOR LIFE, the purpose of which is to raise awareness of worldwide illiteracy.
He will donate one cent to a literacy charity for every word I write on my blog, or as a guest post. And guess what? This guest post is his first contribution!
Be sure to check out what Joel is doing here, at WRITE FOR LIFE.
Follow Joel on Twitter and Facebook.
You might be wondering what I mean by being a top blogger. Well, I don’t mean that that you have to have 100,000 subscribers to be considered a top blogger, or that you have to be making huge sums of money through courses and affiliate sales to be doing a good job. Although these things would be nice.
The question is, how do the top bloggers become the personalities that we all and love, and how can you become one too?
How can you create a legion of adoring fans that hang off your every word?
Well the answer isn’t cut and dry, although I’ll help to fill in one piece of the puzzle.
What top bloggers know
It’s tempting to think that the best bloggers are omnipotent entities who’ve grown their blogs organically from day one through sizzling content and wild-fire, word-of-mouth marketing.They’re not. They started small, worked extremely hard, and made lots of mistakes. They suffered from growing pains like the rest.
For even the very best bloggers, it wasn’t plain sailing.
But even during their early days, these bloggers attracted dedicated readers, and supportive communities.
So how did they do it?
Honesty
Sure, part of the reason is that they write great content, promote the hell out of it, and make excellent connections in their niche.But, there’s more.
Top bloggers are honest, and they write with integrity.
They’re real.
They don’t sugarcoat their troubles, telling their readers they’re doing brilliantly.
Instead they publish their woes for the world to see, hopeful they can use their difficulties to teach and inspire their readers.
They know that being human, and being flawed, is their best asset. Readers can relate to that.They aren’t some faceless, corporate entity with a business strategy, but just normal people, trying to write helpful content for their followers.
They’re self effacing, and happy to acknowledge they don’t have all the answers.We can all empathise with that.
Some of the best posts ever written are about bloggers overcoming adversity, or learning from their mistakes.
It shows character, and reflects the kind of positive change we’re all looking to make in our lives.
Keep it real
The modern Internet contains too many self confessed experts, who pretend to have all the answers.Real bloggers don’t have to pretend. They’re honest about their limitations, and are happy to publish their aborted endeavours and most embarrassing failures. They provide an accurate reflection of life in all its glorious colors.
They create audiences that rejoice in their success and commiserate them in failure.Symbiotic communities.
Learn from your failures by writing about them. Inspire your followers, and take solace from their unwavering support.
Be a top blogger.
TWEETABLES
Top bloggers are real and they write with integrity - two tips from @Joelkey.com on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
The tips you need to becoming a top blogger from @joelkey.com on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Author bio
Joel Key is a writer, journalist and blogger. When he’s not indulging his passion for motorcycle adventure, he’s finding inspiration through writing over at www.joelkey.com. Pick up a free copy of his ‘Change Manifesto’ today.Joel has just created a new campaign on his site called WRITE FOR LIFE, the purpose of which is to raise awareness of worldwide illiteracy.
He will donate one cent to a literacy charity for every word I write on my blog, or as a guest post. And guess what? This guest post is his first contribution!
Be sure to check out what Joel is doing here, at WRITE FOR LIFE.
Follow Joel on Twitter and Facebook.
February 26, 2014
What to do if You do NOT want more Twitter Followers
by Edie Melson
Today I want to give you a short list for Twitter—specifically things to do if you do NOT want more Twitter followers.
Number 1—always talk about yourself. With the 140 character limit, Tweets that are always, Me, Me, Me, are guaranteed to not only keep you from new Twitter followers, it will help you lose the ones you have.
Number 2—hogging the Twitter feed. This means posting three or more tweets in a row. Again, it’s that nausea inducing litany of Me, Me, Me.
Number 3—loading your Tweets with hashtags. Not sure what a hashtag is? Here’s my post on Twitter 101 to help you decipher the code. Multiple hashtags are sure signs of spammers, bots or newbies. All accounts no one wants to follow.
Number 4—the dreaded egg avatar instead of a picture. Again, only spammers, bots or newbies don’t change out the egg for a real picture. You only get the opportunity to communicate who you are in a 140 character bursts. Trust me, no picture does NOT inspire me to follow you.
Number 5—a locked twitter account. Twitter is all about being FOUND. A locked Twitter account is the ultimate oxymoron. Some people restrict who follows them because they mistakenly believe their followers' Tweets will end up in their Twitter stream. Not true. Only the people YOU follow show up in your twitter stream.
Number 6—a description that promises you'll be commenting on the random or inconsequential. Twitter is all about focused bursts of info and interaction. Keywords and hashtags help us follow specific topics. Random nothingness is NOT what I’m looking for on Twitter.
Now it's your turn. What are some of the things you don't like in the Twitter accounts you follow?
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLESTired of getting noticed on Twitter? @EdieMelson shares 6 things to do if you DON'T want more followers! (Click to Tweet)
A tongue-in-cheek look at what NOT to do if you want your Twitter account to grow - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Today I want to give you a short list for Twitter—specifically things to do if you do NOT want more Twitter followers.Number 1—always talk about yourself. With the 140 character limit, Tweets that are always, Me, Me, Me, are guaranteed to not only keep you from new Twitter followers, it will help you lose the ones you have.
Number 2—hogging the Twitter feed. This means posting three or more tweets in a row. Again, it’s that nausea inducing litany of Me, Me, Me.Number 3—loading your Tweets with hashtags. Not sure what a hashtag is? Here’s my post on Twitter 101 to help you decipher the code. Multiple hashtags are sure signs of spammers, bots or newbies. All accounts no one wants to follow.
Number 4—the dreaded egg avatar instead of a picture. Again, only spammers, bots or newbies don’t change out the egg for a real picture. You only get the opportunity to communicate who you are in a 140 character bursts. Trust me, no picture does NOT inspire me to follow you.
Number 5—a locked twitter account. Twitter is all about being FOUND. A locked Twitter account is the ultimate oxymoron. Some people restrict who follows them because they mistakenly believe their followers' Tweets will end up in their Twitter stream. Not true. Only the people YOU follow show up in your twitter stream.Number 6—a description that promises you'll be commenting on the random or inconsequential. Twitter is all about focused bursts of info and interaction. Keywords and hashtags help us follow specific topics. Random nothingness is NOT what I’m looking for on Twitter.
Now it's your turn. What are some of the things you don't like in the Twitter accounts you follow?
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLESTired of getting noticed on Twitter? @EdieMelson shares 6 things to do if you DON'T want more followers! (Click to Tweet)
A tongue-in-cheek look at what NOT to do if you want your Twitter account to grow - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
