Do you have songs that break down your defenses and speak straight to your heart? I think we all do. Today, I heard David Crowder’s “Wholly Yours” on the radio. It tickles my imagination. I’ve never heard another song writer work in the word “antonym.” I mean, come on–who does that? And to play with … Read More
Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference
From Fear to Friends
I arrived this afternoon at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference and even before I stepped out of the shuttle van, a tremor of excitement ran through me. The first year I attended this conference (2009) I was scared out of my little mind. I walked the grounds in awe (and terror) of the multi-published … Read More
Don’t Joke With the Postman
I clutched the packet to my chest as I pushed through the post office door. Mailing manuscripts to editors attending the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference always brings a sense of wild anticipation, not unlike the upward climb on a rickety roller coaster. The postal clerk looked at me with tired eyes as I handed him my … Read More
Why Pinterest is the best new thing for writers (and readers)
If you haven’t heard about the newest social networking craze, Pinterest, then you’re in for a treat. Yes, a time-consuming, addictive treat–but what treat isn’t? Pinterest is the new chocolate of the internet. It’s the best best new tool for writers and readers since Google. (And no, I don’t work for them.) What is it? Pinterest … Read More
Six Resolutions for Aspiring Writers
This is the time of year that many people dust off their dreams and make resolutions to help them achieve their goals. I did that several years ago and set out to follow my dream to become a writer. In case you’re just starting out, I thought I’d offer what I think are six of … Read More
Turning the Page on 2011
I just took down the old calendar and put up the new. It’s always a poignant moment for me, because I’ve made it a family tradition to decorate our calendar with family photos from the year past. I make them online and give them to my family for Christmas gifts. Changing the calendar on Dec. … Read More
Conference Fever
I apologize for being uncharacteristically quiet these past two weeks. I’ve been busy with writing conference preparations. This week I attended the Oregon Christian Writers Summer Conference and in a few more weeks (see the countdown clock to the lower right) I will be flying off to St. Louis for the American Christian Writers Conference … Read More
An Update on the Writing Process
Many friends have asked why I haven’t said much about my books lately. Part of that is intentional–now that I am working with an agent and am negotiating with publishing houses, I know professional eyes are watching. There’s nothing like knowing people are observing you to make you want to be (at least pretend to … Read More
Mount Hermon 2011
I’ve finally unpacked and sorted through my memories of the 2011 Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. In past years, I’ve tried to update my blog during the conference with updates, but things were just too hectic this year. That, and I couldn’t seem to get my computer to stay connected to the internet for more … Read More
What would you buy with a gift card–from God?
God loves to give gifts to His children, the Bible says so (Matthew 7:11; Luke 11:13). He is also able do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). Well, I have a pretty big imagination. But, do you know what I usually end up asking God for? Not His gifts. I ask Him … Read More