Katie Ganshert's Blog, page 32

Bubba's Poo Back

Crazy things happen when you have a three-year old boy under your roof. Almost every day, I find myself saying (or shouting) things I never ever thought I would say.

For instance….

The other day, I looked outside and saw my son, scooping dog poo with a plastic shovel, transferring it into a sand pail, and piling it on the back of our black lab, Bubba. Who just stood there, wet nose turned up to the sun as if he were getting a really great massage. 

I promptly opened the screen door and yelled...

The Long Route

When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest route to the Promised Land. God said, "If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt." So God led them in a roundabout way through the wilderness toward the Red Sea. -Exodus 13:17-18

When I came upon those verses the other day, I had to smile.

Because so often, this is my experience with God. 

I...

Controversy: Good or Bad for Fiction Authors?

Controversy sells. Controversy gets attention.

Just look at the latest public outcry surrounding Rush Limbaugh and Sandra Fluke.

Or look at well-known pastor, Mark Driscoll. He made a comment on Facebook about effeminate worship leaders and received a maelstrom of comments. 

Almost always, blog posts about controversial topics get more hits and more comments.

But is it wise for fiction authors to tackle these topics on their blogs?

I think, before we get to that question, we have address an...

Your Desk

 

If a stranger went through your desk, what would he or she learn about you?

In other news, one of my short stories was published in this month's issue of CFOM. It's a quick, lighthearted romance about a girl, a guy, a candy store, and some flirtatious eye contact, titled Hubba Bubba and Redhots. Hope you enjoy!

You can read more of my short stories on my Free Reads page. 
 

Slowing Down

 

In this fast-paced world, what's your favorite way to slow down and gather your thoughts?
 

Happy Leap Day!

Looking Back

 

If you had to relive one year of your life, which year would you choose and why?

 
*photo by richbunce 

Special Features

I'm totally that person who loves the special features on a DVD. If I like a movie, I will rewatch the entire thing just to hear the commentary.

Which is why I want to offer my readers these fun extras. If they fall in love with Wildflowers from Winter, I want to give them some surprises on my website.

Right now, I'm working on a page for my hero and heroine, titled A Romance Blossoms. 

Only I can't figure out what I should put on it. I have an inkling. But nothing is solid yet.

Which is why I...

God's Music

Many people go to their graves with God's unplayed music still inside them.

My church handed out these devotionals a few weeks ago. I found this quote inside. I don't know who wrote it. I only know that the words have stuck with me. 

Let's Talk: What does that quote mean to you? How can we play God's music today?

*photo by shadowzelda3

Four Things I Learned from a Bad Movie

Time and money are a precious commodity. So when Ryan and I spent both on a not-so-good movie this past Friday, I refused to let either go to waste.

Instead of mourning the loss of a four dollar rental fee and two hours of movie time, I put on my writing-hat and decided to learn from the experience.

I asked myself two questions:

Why didn't this movie work? How can I use the experience to become a better storyteller?

I came up with four important takeaways. 

As writers, it's important that we….

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Best Valentine's Day Ever

I'm a romance writer, which means I would be remiss if I ignored Valentine's Day.

Right?

I have to be completely, straight-up honest. Hubby and I don't really get into Valentine's Day. We don't do cards or chocolate or cute little teddy bears. It's not because we're not romantic people. It's more because we're not holiday people.

Before anyone gasps in shock and horror, let me assure you.

We enjoy holidays. We really do. 

I'm  just saying, there are two types of people in this world.

There are...