On the Write Track

Winner of The Baker's Wife and a Weekend Question

2012-03-02T08:01:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone who entered my giveaway for The Baker's Wife. It really is a wonderful book and I hope that those of you who didn't win will pick up a copy, either in print or for your e-reader. You can do that HERE.

I entered all of the names in an online random name picker and the machine selected a winner. Time to make Friday even better for someone.

And that someone is...

JENNIFER!

Congrats, Jennifer! Your book's on its way!

And now I leave you with this comic and a question for the weekend:

Inquiring minds want to know:

Do you dog-ear your pages or use bookmarks?

E is for... E-Reader (and Excited!)

2012-02-29T06:48:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I was thrilled to find out that my book, Mind over Madi, is now available on Kindle! Perfect timing for this week's A2Z4UandMe meme letter. So is it any wonder that my E word is...

E-Reader

(And Excited, of course.)

Despite my initial E-Reader reservations, thinking that nothing could ever replace the feel of a real book in my hands, I got a Kindle for Mother's Day last year. Lo and behold, I absolutely love it. I'll admit, most of the reading I do is for review, and I receive print copies of those books, but I've already downloaded (or is it uploaded?) many books to my Kindle. In fact, I just counted, and I have 70 books on my Kindle so far. I especially love to load devotionals that I can read again and again, and I'm a sucker for freebies of any kind.

As far as the actual E-reader, I find the lightweight feel Easier to read than a book, love the automatic page save, and the long battery life. When traveling, what's more convenient than packing one device instead of three books I want to read? I also love the ability to categorize titles and search inside the book. I haven't yet used the read-aloud feature, but I definitely want to try it.

The only downside is the inability to pass books on to others, although I believe the Kindle and the Nook both have a lending program now, where you can share books with your friends.

My mom has the Nook and she is anxiously awaiting for the Barnes & Noble Electronic version of my book. But, for now, I'm thrilled and Excited to have it available for the Kindle. I've already had several people tell me they've purchased it. For many readers, it's just a much more convenient --and inexpensive-- way to go.

What about you? Do you own an E-reader? What are your favorite features? And how many books do you currently have loaded on your device? More importantly, do you think you'll ever read them all? And MOST importantly, why aren't you already over on Amazon.com, purchasing mine? :-)

Want to play along on my A2Z4UandMe meme? It doesn't matter what letter you'd like to focus on today, leave a link to your post via Mister Linky, so others can check it out.

Don't forget about my giveaway of The Baker's Wife by Erin Healy. I'm selecting and announcing the winner this coming Friday (March 2nd), so there are only a couple days left to enter. Just leave a comment on FRIDAY'S POST. Good luck!

Three Book Reviews and a Giveaway, Too!

2012-02-24T07:00:00.012-05:00

Looking for some good Christian fiction? I have some suggestions for you. Each of the three books I reviewed this month for FaithfulReader.com were excellent in their own right. Take a moment to read my full reviews (links provided after the blurbs).

There is something for everyone. If you are a romance and/or suspense fan, check out WHEN THE SMOKE CLEARS by Lynette Eason.THE BAKER'S WIFE by Erin Healy is contemporary fiction with mystery and suspense. And ADDISON BLAKELY: CONFESSIONS OF A PK is a young adult novel, but is a great read for anyone who is young at heart and remembers their high school days (I completely relate and I'm over 40!)

GIVEAWAY: I somehow ended up with an extra copy of THE BAKER'S WIFE and would love to pass it along to you! Simply leave a comment on this blog post and I will put your name in the hat for this giveaway. The winner will be announced next Friday, March 2nd.

Before Audrey was the baker's wife, she was the pastor's wife. Then a scandalous lie cost her husband a pastoral career. Now the two work side-by-side running a bakery, serving coffee, and baking fresh bread. But the hurt still pulls at Audrey.

Driving early one morning to the bakery, Audrey's car strikes something-or someone-at a fog-shrouded intersection. She finds a motor scooter belonging to alocal teacher. Blood is everywhere, but there's no trace of a body.

Both the scooter and the blood belong to detective Jack Mansfield's wife, and he's certain that Audrey is behind Julie's disappearance.

But the case dead-ends and the detective spirals into madness. When he takes her family and some patrons hostage at the bakery, Audrey is left with a soul-damaged ex-con and a cynical teen to solve the mystery. And she'll never manage that unless she taps into something she would rather leave behind-her excruciating ability to feel other's pain.

READ MY FULL REVIEW

*Don't forget to comment on this post for your chance to win this book!

As a member of the North Cascades Smokejumpers, Alexia Allen always takes care of the equipment that keeps her safe. So when she nearly dies in a fire due to equipment failure, she knows something is up. Ordered to take time off while the investigation continues, Alexia makes a last-minute decision to recuperate at her mother's home and attend her high school reunion. Yet trouble seems to be following her, and within hours of arriving home she's involved with murder, arson--and a handsome detective. But the conflicts ahead are nothing compared to the ghosts of her past. As she strives to remember and forgive her family history, she must also decide if the secret she's been guarding for the last ten years must finally come to light.

Chock-full of the suspense and romantic tension readers have come to expect from Lynette Eason, When the Smoke Clears is the explosive first book in the Deadly Reunions series.

READ MY FULL REVIEW

Sixteen-year-old Addison Blakely has tirelessly played the role of PK—preacher’s kid—her entire life. But after Wes Keegan revs his motorcycle into town and into her heart, Addison begins to wonder how much of her faith is her own and how much has been handed to her. She isn’t so sure she wants to be the good girl anymore.

READ MY FULL REVIEW

**Contest disclaimer: Void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents. Odds of winning depend on number of entrants.**

D is for Daughter

2012-02-22T05:52:00.000-05:00

So I'm up to the letter D in the A2ZforUandMe meme. And today, I'd like to make my post a little more personal. Of course I'm biased, but God has blessed me with the most beautiful, most precious DAUGHTER ever. Lyndsey and I spend a lot of time together. Among other things, we share a love for Shopping, ice cream, and CSI. She was off on Winter Break last weekend, and I had the chance to spend the entire day with her on Monday. What a reminder of just what an amazing woman she's growing up to be. I just have to share a few photos of my DAUGHTER Lyndsey here. Hope you don't mind.

Is there anything more fun than dressing a little girl? Her closet was filled with the cutest outfits. Which was perfect, because they were for the cutest baby.

Her very first dance costume. She performed Kimbo the Clown at Miss Roseanne's School of Dance.

Her Sponge Bob birthday!

Even when she copped an attitude, like not wanting to wear this Sully (from Monsters, Inc) costume she begged me to buy because she didn't like the black nose I painted, she was still adorable.

A silly moment. We have lots of those moments around here.

The first day of her last day of junior high. A bittersweet moment for me...

Volleyball...she doesn't play anymore and still misses it. She had to choose between volleyball and band. Seeing how she is only 5'2 and done growing, she chose band, knowing her chances of making the varsity team in high school was slim.

And because of her decision to stick with band instead of Volleyball, she had the opportunity to experience winning State (the first time in 6 years for Jenison)! She in the drum line (cymbals). That's her in the first row.

Her Freshman photos. Is she gorgeous, or what?

Thanks for letting me share pictures of my DAUGHTER

A Fun Quiz: How much do you have in common with Madi McCall?

2012-02-20T07:41:00.000-05:00

Because I love quizzes (of the non-school variety), and because today is Madi Moment Monday, I thought it would be fun to post a little questionnaire to see how much you have in common with my main character, Madi McCall.

When you're stressed, bored, or need a snack, you reach for:

a. Potato chips

b. Grapes

c. Skittles

d. Edy's Dibs

When faced with something you don't want to deal with, you:

a. Deal with it anyway, in a calm, mature way.

b. Escape to the bathroom and take a hot bubble bath

c. Hide behind a potted plant.

d. both b & c

The most "fourth grade" thing you've done lately is:

a. Run through a mud puddle

b. Jump on the bed

c. Make a "duck beak" out of Pringles

d. Blow raspberries at someone

You consider therapy to be:

a. A waste of time

b. For other people, but not for you

c. A sign of weakness

d. A mental life-saver

When you see a spider, you:

a. Grab a tissue and squish the sucker

b. Catch it and put it outside

c. Run the other way

d. Practically have a panic attack

Your favorite computer game is:

a. Farmville

b. I don't waste my time on computer games

c. Text Twist

d. Solitaire

Your mother could be compared to television mom:

a. June Cleaver (Leave it to Beaver)

b. Carol Brady (The Brady Bunch)

c. Debra Barone (Everybody Loves Raymond)

d. Roseanne Conner (Roseanne)

Your hot beverage of choice is:

a. Chai

b. Hot chocolate

c. Tea

d. Coffee, any flavor, any time

The Disney princess you're most like is:

a. Mulan (Mulan)

b. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

c. Fiona (Shrek)

d. All of the above

ANSWERS

NO D's: If you did not circle any D's, consider yourself normal and not at all like Madi. This means you need to buy my book so you can gain insight into the mind of a non-normal, slightly neurotic, but well-meaning woman.

1 - 5 D's: You have a few things in common with Madi and probably experience occasional Madi Moments. You need to buy my book because you will relate very well to the main character.

6 - 9 D's: Your life is one big Madi Moment. You need to buy my book so you can see that there is someone out there who is just as slightly neurotic and quirky as you are.

How much like Madi are you?

The Book Stops Here: When the Smoke Clears by Lynette Eason

2012-02-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

My thoughts:

I read and loved Lynette Eason's Women of Justice series, so when I was offered the chance to review the first book in her new Deadly Reunions series, I jumped at the chance. And I was not disappointed.

When the Smoke Clears is perhaps the most action-packed romantic suspense I've read in a long time. There is non-stop action, and twists and turns abound. But even in the midst of dodging bullets and escaping car bombs, there is a little time for romance. As with any good romance, conflict is inevitable. And in this story, it is compounded by the fact that two brothers compete for Alexia's affections. Of course, Alexia only has eyes for one of them, and the chemistry between them is undeniable.

There is a lot going on in the storyline, some of which didn't make complete sense to me. However, because the book ends with many loopholes, I suspect that many of the questions I have will be answered in book #2.

Eason is a superb storyteller and I eagerly await the next edition in this series.

I have submitted a full review of When the Smoke Clears to FaithfulReader.com. As soon as it's posted, I will share the link with you. But for now, I'll just say that if you are a fan of romantic suspense, I highly recommend this book.

*Available February 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

*Thanks to Revell for providing me with a copy of this book to review. A positive review was not required and all thoughts are my own.

The Vow...Valentine's Day romance at its best

2012-02-10T08:23:00.000-05:00

Well, it's the weekend before Valentine's Day. Any plans?? My husband and I don't really celebrate-celebrate anymore, but we try to go to dinner or something. And I get a "love" present for the kids, which is fun. Now that they're older, their present pretty much consists of gift cards and candy, although my daughter is getting a magazine subscription this year.

With all the writing and working I've been doing lately, I'm taking the afternoon off to see a movie with a friend. We're going to The Vow, starring Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum, which opens today. If you haven't heard of it, The Vow is inspired by the true story of Krickitt and Kim Carpenter, who were in a severe car accident 10 weeks after their wedding. The accident left Krickitt in a coma for one month. When she woke up, she couldn't remember the last 18 months of her life, including meeting, falling in love, and marrying Kim. Her husband begins the process of courting Krickitt again to win her back. It's a wonderful story of romance, true love, and commitment - the perfect Valentine's Day movie.

So what is your favorite romantic movie? Or book?

(Because so many movies are based on books these days)

Here's the trailer for The Vow. If you see it, I'd love to know your thoughts.

The Power of our Words

2012-02-08T07:00:00.000-05:00

So I've been thinking a lot lately about the power of our words. Not so much in the words we choose to include in our books and articles. Those are definitely important, but that post is for another day.

The power I'm talking about is that which we have over words we use to encourage and discourage people. To lift them up or tear them down. To inflate or deflate. To criticize or motivate.

I've had plenty of people in my life who have used their words against me. Sometimes those words have been mean or harsh. Sometimes their words of love or affection that I longed to hear were simply withheld. Either way, I was negatively affected.

Yes, I have the ability (and have been commanded) to forgive. But forgiveness does not mean we can just forget about those words and pretend they were never said. There is a reason the Bible says that life and death are in the power of the tongue. Because our words affect people and we are affected by others' words. Who in the world ever came up the saying "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me"? That has to be the most ridiculous line ever, made up by someone who didn't have either a heart or a brain.

What an awesome responsibility we have as Christians to steer our tongues in the right direction and speak words that bring life and healing. I'm probably overly sensitive, but personally, the thought of hurting someone with my words brings me to tears. Probably because I've been hurt so many times myself and I know what it does to the heart. And I can also imagine how it grieves the Holy Spirit when we use our beautiful instrument of praise to knock down and destroy someone instead.

Here's my question for you. I'll keep it writing related and positive:

Who in your life has spoken words of encouragement and motivation

to you in your writing journey? And how have you encouraged others?

Cooking (or not) with Madi

2012-02-06T07:31:00.000-05:00

I have a lot in common with my main character, Madi McCall. I've mentioned some of our similarities in interviews I've done and in my bio. We share a love for chocolate, coffee, and computer games. We both suffer from a massive fear of spiders, and insecurity is a continual battle.

One other thing Madi and I have in common is our lack of cooking abilities. And really, our lack of desire to cook. I wouldn't go so far as to say we hate it, but when given a choice between cooking and take-out, or cooking and popping pizza rolls in the microwave, guess which one wins? Every time?

There are a few dishes my family enjoys, like my chicken casserole and mostaccioli. In fact, I mention that mostaccioli in Mind over Madi, and for fun, have pasted the scene below:

“So what’s up with you and Blake?” I’ve been dying to ask, but haven’t wanted to hound her about it.

Christina shrugs.

“She took him back,” Max says, shaking his head.

Christina swats him on the arm. “Do you want a black eye to match mine?”

I frown. So I don’t want to be cynical here, but I am thinking getting back together with Blake might not be such a good idea. Don’t get me wrong—I believe people can change. But I have my doubts about Blake. Then again, all members of the male species are on my disgust list at the moment. Particularly those who have been caught cheating. “Are you sure that’s a good idea, honey?”

“Don’t worry about it, Mother.” Christina is irritated. It’s obvious that she has no desire to discuss the status of her relationship with Blake. “So tell her about Sam.” She jabs an elbow into Max’s back, cleverly diverting the topic.

It is a rare occasion that I see my sixteen-year-old son blush. But here he is, turning an acute shade of pink. He turns away and opens the cupboard, pretending to be looking for something to eat.

“Don’t be shy, Max,” Christina goads. She looks at me. “He asked Sam out. And she said yes, can you believe it? The poor girl.”

I raise an eyebrow. “Who else is going on this date?” The group-dating-only rule is very important to me. Particularly in light of the sexual pressure conversation Christina and I had the other day.

Christina answers for him. “Amy and Kyle and maybe me and Blake.”

Normally, I would correct Christina’s bad grammar but I am still stuck on the first part of her sentence. “Kyle?”

“Amy’s boyfriend.”

My hopes for acquiring Amy as a daughter-in-law are fading fast. I feel another sense of betrayal. Why can’t they see what I see? That Max and Amy are perfect for each other.

Shaking away my disappointment, I try to act happy about the fact that my son is dating a punk rocker or goth girl—or whatever kids call it these days—from Tennessee. “Sam seems like a nice girl, Max.”

“You know, just because she has a lip ring, pink hair and wears dark lipstick doesn’t mean she’s a bad person.” Max says from behind the cupboard door.

“Honey, you don’t have to defend her. I already said she seems nice. Of course, I only met her once. I’d like the chance to get to know her a little better. Maybe you can invite her over for dinner sometime next week.” It really wouldn’t hurt to get to know the girl who thinks my son is hot.

Max’s face reappears, looking worried. “You wouldn’t cook, would you? We could get pizza or something.”

My kids have little confidence in my cooking abilities.

“I could make mostaccioli. You guys like my mostaccioli.”

“That’s okay. Pizza is fine.”

Ouch.

As an added note, you can find the recipe to Madi's Mean Mostaccioli in NOVEL MORSELS, an e-recipe book put together by author Nicole O'Dell. This book features more than 65 Christian authors who share 120 recipes from their fiction novels. Included are scenes from the books, stories behind the recipes, and lots of ideas for menu planning. It's in Kindle format only and is a steal at only .99! Check it out on Amazon: NOVEL MORSELS

Do you cook? Do you love it? Share a favorite recipe in the comments.

This is a test...this is only a test...

2012-02-03T06:41:00.000-05:00

Indulge me in a quick plug before I get to today's blog post. Amazon has lowered the price of Mind over Madi twice in the past couple days. It is now down to $11.53. If you're interested in taking advantage of this awesome price, click on the link in the left sidebar to be taken directly to the Amazon.com book page.

Commercial over...back to the regularly scheduled blog post...

I love tests and quizzes. No, not the school kind (math...shudder), but the personality kind. My favorite subject in school was psychology, and my love for what makes people tick comes in real handy in writing fiction. So any time I see a link to a personality test, I click on over and see what it has to say about me. And 99% of the time, the assessment is dead-on.

At the beginning of January, Glynnis Whitwer, author of I Used to Be So Organized, held a 10-day Clutter-Free Challenge. For two weeks, she sent a daily email sharing her wisdom, tips, and advice on getting rid of the clutter - not just physical clutter, but mental, as well. Due to some things going on in my life at the time (clutter, ironically), I still haven't made it through all of her emails (I've saved them in a folder for later) but from what I did read, they contain some good stuff! I look forward to taking the time to implement some of her suggestions.

Yesterday, Glynnis sent another email with a link to a motivational test by Tamara Lowe, author of Get Motivated! This test asks the question, "Does your personality hinder your ability to de-clutter?" It basically looks at three categories:

What drives you (production or connection)
What your needs are (stability or variety)
What awards you prefer (internal or external)

Of course, I clicked right over to take the test. There were some questions that were tough. I knew what I should answer, what would be the Christian answer, but I made myself be completely honest. And, once again, I'm amazed at the results, which I've posted below (because I know you're dying to know more about me). The one thing that I thought was way off-base was that the assessment said I am disciplined. If you've followed my blog for long, you know discipline is something I struggle with. But as I thought about it, I realized that I really am disciplined in a way. I usually take on more than I should and always get done what needs to be done. That takes discipline, even if I'm stressing out about it the whole time (saving that topic for another day).

Anyway, today I just want to share the link with you, my fellow writers and personality test-takers. I thought you might enjoy it. If nothing else, maybe you'll gain new insight into your strengths and weaknesses, or come away with new ideas for your characters.

Here's the link if you'd like to take the test yourself:
MOTIVATIONAL TEST

MY RESULTS (in case you're interested):
CSE (Connection-Stability-External) - The Refiner

Refiners are systematic thinkers who value precision. They have the ability to see the big picture while still focusing on the details. Refiners are conscientious and disciplined. They are supportive and respectful of others. Personal and practical, Refiners tend to be family-oriented. They are deeply loyal and have a well-defined sense of right and wrong. They prefer a “democratic” style of leadership and expect others to play according to the rules.

Refiners are dependable and diligent. Fair pay and sincere appreciation for their work make them feel valued. They are deliberate in their decision-making and want to ensure that their choices do not adversely affect others.

CSE Motivators: All the facts plus enough time to analyze them, competent team members, recognition by superiors, special privileges, freedom from controls and genuine respect.

CSE De-Motivators: High pressure deadlines, too many cooks in the kitchen, rapid change, infringement on personal or family time and perceived inequity.

Did you click on over to take the test? What were your results?

C is for Contract...and Challenge

2012-02-01T05:14:00.000-05:00

So many C words...but for this installment of A2Z4UandMe, two C words immediately came to mind. And they're related.

I just signed the CONTRACT for the next two books in the Madi series! I knew from the beginning that OakTara was interested in a three-book series, but actually signing the CONTRACT and sending it off last week made everything much more real. Here's a blurb about Madily in Love, book number two, coming out later this year:

All Madi Lee McCall wants is to fall madly in love again…with her husband.

After a rough patch, Madi’s determined to get her marriage back on track. She’s even taking a romance class at church and getting great suggestions…that fail miserably. The distractions are plenty. She has just reentered the workplace as a health spa receptionist. Her 16-year-old daughter, Christina, is pushing the limits, and Christina’s twin, Max has fallen hard for a girl who isn’t Madi’s picture of a perfect match for her son. Even younger daughter, Emily, is developing a teenager-ish attitude.

When her mother-in-law moves in—temporarily, of course—the stress starts to drive Madi a little crazier than normal. What she wants, more than anything, is some peace among the chaos.

Book #3, Sylvie and Gold, will be released in 2013.

As exciting as it is to sign a CONTRACT for two more books, it's also pretty scary. This is the first time I've signed a CONTRACT for a manuscript that's not yet written. I do work well under deadline, but the pressure is definitely on! Which is why this week, C is also for CHALLENGE. Because that's exactly what the next few months are going to be. Madily in Love is due on June 1st, only 4 very short months away. And I still have 2/3 of my book to write and edit. Eeeek! Not to mention I also have my son's high school graduation (and everything that comes with it) at the end of May, a few book signing events scheduled, am volunteering for two separate on-going school-related things, work 2-3 days per week, yada yada. I'm sure you all know how it is. Now that I think about it, CHALLENGE may be an understatement.

But being CHALLENGED is a good thing. We can't grow or improve if we don't CHALLENGE ourselves, right? Overall, of course I'm ecstatic, and grateful, and in awe, really, that within the next 18 months or so, I'll have two more books published! The biggest CHALLENGE is wrapping my mind around that one.

What about you? What CHALLENGES are you facing lately?

I'm adding Mr. Linky again, in case you want to leave a link to your A2Z4UandMe post. You may not be on the same letter as I am, and that's ok. I'd love for you to play along.

Is Chick Lit Dead?

2012-01-30T07:00:00.001-05:00

For a while, chick lit was alive and kicking up its stilettos. Seriously, everywhere you looked, there it was. The market got saturated. And once the shelves and bookstores and publishing houses (and readers) were soaked, so started the drying up process.

Now, they say chick lit is dead. But I disagree. While the term "chick lit" may be buried, the heart of chick lit is still breathing. It may be disguised as "romantic comedy" or "contemporary women's fiction" but it's still there. And it's still selling. In my opinion, it always will be.

Why? Because women can relate. Chick lit's main components tend to be friendship, fashion, and finding Mr. Right. But most of all, chick lit is fun. And with the busyness of being a woman, fun is always a welcome reprieve!

Chick lit has been around forever. Jane Austen was a 19th century chick lit writer. In fact, six of her novels were recently given redesigned, glossy, "chick litty" covers in order to appeal to today's woman.

A few years before the term "chick lit" made its debut, Sue Grafton came out with her Alphabet Series (still going strong- she's up to letter V). While protagonist, Kinsey Milhone, isn't your typical Prada handbag chick, she's got the other main components that make up a "chick lit" character: she's single, she's sassy, and she's smart.

Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series is a huge hit with readers. In fact, one of her titles, One for the Money, has just come out as a movie, starring Katherine Heigl. Other secular books you've probably heard of that could be (or are) labled as Chick Lit include:

Something Borrowed
Bridget Jones Diary
The Nanny Diaries
The Devil Wears Prada
Cofessions of a Shopaholic
In her Shoes
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
Lipstick Jungle

Chick lit expands to the Christian market, too. Kristin Billerbeck is one of the authors who helped define "Christian Chick Lit." Her Ashley Stockingdale series (What a Girl Wants) was, and remains, a hit with readers. With Christian chick lit, you have everything found in general market chick lit, only it goes deeper. Under all of the fun, fashion, and finding Mr. Right, also lies a message about God's love and forgiveness.

Some popular Christian chick lit authors include:

Of course, chick lit has also expanded to other areas, such as Mom Lit (which is what category Mind over Madi falls under), Hen Lit, Mystery Lit, even YA Lit.

No matter what, the form and style of chick lit will never die. As long as there are chicks (that's US, ladies!), there will be chick lit. No matter what genre or sub-genre it's hidden behind.

What are your thoughts about Chick Lit? What are some of your favorites?

Winner of Thyme for Love and CBD.com

2012-01-27T08:00:00.001-05:00

Not many entries for the Thyme for Love giveaway. Such a shame because it's such a great book! I hope you'll check it out. Cbd.com is offering it for $12.99, and it should be available for the Kindle and Nook any day now, so watch for that.

The good news is, those who did enter this giveaway had better odds of winning! I input the names into an online Random Name Picker and the computer chose...

LOREE HUEBNER

Congrats, Loree! I know you'll enjoy this delightful book!

Due to my lack of time this week, I don't have an official blog post today, but worth mentioning is the fact that cbd.com has finally added the description of Mind over Madi on my book page. Since the beginning, there has been nothing posted but the price and the product information. Now you can actually see what the story is about, and read an excerpt (read the entire first chapter HERE), which will hopefully encourage you to buy my book! That, and the price, which is less than anywhere else right now ($12.99).

On a hopeful note, the Kindle edition of Mind over Madi should be available any day now. I believe the price is going to be just over $7, which is great! I'll keep you posted!

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend!

7 Wonders of My Writing World

2012-01-25T07:00:00.001-05:00

I'm a little short on time this week (ie, things are crazy in my world) so I am re-posting a blog I wrote back in 2007 for Writer's Rest (I'm no longer a contributing author but it's a really great blog. I encourage you to check it out).

So, using the letters in WONDERS, I'll give you seven that are most definitely part of MY writing world.

W - WORDS - Duh, right? Words are definitely a huge part of my writing world. Without them, I would be out of this world...groan... But, you know? We writers LOVE words. Play on words, word phrasing, definition, crossword puzzles, word searches, Text Twist, Letter Linker, Book Worm, Scrabble. But I suppose that because words are so much a part of my life, I'd better love them.

More importantly, I love to dig into THE WORD, which gives me strength, encouragement and hope every day - particularly on those difficult days when I wonder if I should banish words altogether from my world.

O - ORIGINALITY - This basically translates into creativity. Is my writing fresh and original? Or does it feel stale and blah? Story formulas may have the same components but am I adding them to the mix in a way that's not been done before? Or does my story sound a little too much like the author's I read last week? Creative ideas are everywhere. This is my absolute favorite part of my writing world.

N - NETWORKING - Let's face it; in today's world, writers need to network. Personally, I think it's fun! Introducing myself to other authors, commenting on agent's and editor's blogs, joining groups and loops, getting my name out there so when my book does come out, people will say, "I've heard that name before!" And guess what? You may not realize it, but I'm networking right now. Hee hee...sometimes you've got to be sneaky about these things...

D - DISCIPLINE - I may love words, but this is my least favorite one. Probably because I am so NOT. Forcing myself to sit in a chair and just write is painful for me. Once I'm there, I'm fine. Time slips away and I crank out those pages. But getting there...that's the biggie. Especially when I'm taunted by laundry, emails, blogs, and reality TV. So I may have to work extra hard to keep discipline a part of my writing world, but it'll be worth the effort.

E - EDITS - Sigh. What would my writing life be without edits? Um...one big mess of grammatical errors and plot holes? Pretty much. Not to mention my published writing life would be non-existent. Yes, editing is a part of the writing world, like it or not. But what a feeling when you see the results of those changes. It's like taking a wrinkled shirt from the dryer and running a hot iron over it. Presto! The haphazardness has been transformed into sleek and put-together. I wouldn't wear a wrinkled shirt any more than I would send out a non-edited piece of work.

Okay...I better stop here. All this talk about ironing is bringing on thoughts of attacking that huge pile in my laundry room. And we all know about my battle with discipline...

R - RESEARCH - My second least favorite word. Some authors love research but I'm not one of them. I'd rather stick with the creative part of writing. But that isn't realistic. Even in the most fluffy of fiction, there is bound to be some research required. In Mind over Madi, I did research on South Haven, Michigan, music of the eighties, civil suits, day spas, and much more. If I want my readers to believe what I'm telling them, I'll need to do the research. There's no way around it. Bleh.

S - SLEEP - Sleeping on the job? I see those fingers wagging. But it's true! I find I do my best writing when I'm well-rested and refreshed. I get up very early (before 4:00 this morning) and do my best writing then. If I try to come up with something when I'm tired and irritable, frankly, my work stinks. And then I have to go back to the edit part of my world a little more frequently. The more polished my work is up front, the less time I'll need to spend on editing, and the faster my book will be on its way to that agent.

Sometimes my manuscript could also use some sleep. Setting it aside for a few days is often the wisest thing to do. Or sometimes putting it to sleep is even better. Some things I've written were born for the shredder or a dark and lonely file drawer. Shudder.

So what about you? What words would you use to describe your writing life?

Desperate Princess Housewives

2012-01-23T07:00:00.002-05:00

I don't watch Desperate Housewives, but Madi McCall, the main character in my book, Mind over Madi, could be considered "desperate." At least in regards to her desperation for a good marriage, obedient kids, some love and affection from her mother, and a sudden addiction to healthy food.

So because she is a "desperate housewife" and since a recurring theme in the story is princesses - as in, how Madi is a daughter of the King - as well as references to which Disney princess she most relates to, I thought the following comic fit my blog's Madi Moment Monday theme. I thought it was cute, anyway. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. :-)

Thyme for a Giveaway!

2012-01-20T07:00:00.001-05:00

April Love has always dreamed of being a chef. But she didn't expect a former fiancé or murder to be part of the recipe for her new job. When April Love signs on to be an in-house chef at an old lakeshore mansion in Canoga Lake, Wisconsin, she comes face to face with her long-lost love, the drop-dead gorgeous Marc Thorne. It doesn't take long for their old magnetism to recharge, but how can she trust the guy who left her nearly at the altar eight years earlier? Her gut tells her something happened to Marc in between-something he's reluctant to reveal. When April's boss is murdered, Marc is accused of the crime. Unless April can find out who really killed Ramón Galvez, her chances for love will end up at the county jail. But someone else is just as determined she not solve the mystery...and will go to any length to stop her.

I first met Pam Meyers at the 2009 ACFW conference in Denver. She told me she was represented by agent Terry Burns, and a few months later, so was I! Pam and I both had the thrill of receiving contracts from Oak Tara within about a month of each other. In fact, when Terry called me from a writer's conference to let me know I'd been offered a contract, Pam was there with him and got to share in my excitement. Her book came out on November 14, one day before mine. Pretty cool, huh?

I had the privilege of reading Thyme for Love and reviewing it this month for FaithfulReader.com. I love romantic suspense and cozy mysteries, and this one is a little of both. It's a light, fun read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I happen to have two copies of Pam's book and would love to give one to you!

Simply leave a comment on this blog post and you'll be entered to win. Easy-peasy! Be sure to leave your email address so I can get in touch with you if you're the winner. Winner will be announced next Friday, January 27.

If you'd like to read my full review of Thyme for Love, you can do that HERE.

* **Contest disclaimer: Void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents. Odds of winning depend on number of entrants.**

______________________________________________________________

Pamela Meyers, writes romance and women's fiction from her home in Arlington Heights Illinois. She served as secretary on the Operating Board of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) for five years. Is currently ACFW's New Release Coordinator, and is president of her local ACFW Chapter.

Thyme for Love is her debut novel and is the first of three books in the On the Road to Love series. Pam has published articles in several periodicals and authored a piece that was featured in the compilation book, His Forever.

In addition to Thyme for Love, she has completed several novels in both the romance genre and women's fiction. More can be read about her writing at her website at www.pammeyerswrites.com and on her blog at www.pammeyerswrites.blogspot.com.

B is for...what else...BOOKS!

2012-01-18T07:02:00.001-05:00

Welcome to post two of my A2Z4UandMe meme. This will be a long, but fun, process as we go through all the letters of the alphabet this year. Nobody played along with A, but I'm hoping it will catch on and more of you will start blogging the alphabet along with me.

So the letter B.

What kind of author would I be if I didn't use this awesome double-bubbled letter for the word BOOKS.

As probably every writer can relate, BOOKS are and always have been a part of my life. My two favorite things to do growing up were read stories and make up stories while bouncing a super ball against my closet door. Seriously.

I remember reading every BOOK in the Little House on the Prairie series, Cherry Ames, The Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew. Yes, I'm dating myself, here, but those are the BOOKS I loved.

Ironically, I didn't care for any of my high school literature classes. Although I enjoyed Tom Sawyer, Huckleberry Finn, and Lord of the Flies, I wasn't much into the classics: To Kill a Mockingbird, Old Man and the Sea, A Tale of Two Cities (feel free to gasp openly). I preferred contemporary tales about real-life kids like me. Starting with elementary BOOKS by authors like Judy Bloom, Beverly Cleary, then moving on to C.S. Lewis and Carolyn Keene. One series I devoured was by John Benton. He wrote the "Living Hope" series which centered around troubled girls who got into some rough situations like prostitution and drugs, then ended up at a Christian half-way house at the end. Each BOOK title was a girl's name - Lori, Debbie, Candi, Jackie. I couldn't get enough of this wonderful series of redemption. I just ran across John Benton again on Goodreads and am considering buying a few of those BOOKS to read again. They would be interesting to read as an adult and see if they have the same impact.

It was Sue Grafton's Alphabet Series that first made me consider becoming an author myself. From the moment I read A is for Alibi, I was hooked on mysteries and the first-person point of view. Then I discovered Mindy Starns Clark - I call her the "Christian Sue Grafton" and I wondered if maybe there was a place for me in the world of authordom.

It's really hard to believe that today I actually review books for a living and even have my own BOOK published, with two more contracted! Sometimes I have to pinch myself, just to be sure it's real. Fiction is so much a part of my life, I can't be sure.

So what about you? What BOOKS have impacted your life over the years?

Got a "B" word of your own you want to Blog about? Play along by leaving the link to your post below, using Mr. Linky.

A (non) Mature Madi Moment

2012-01-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

Today, I thought I'd post a scene - well, a small portion of a scene - from my book. The following passage (from page 33) is a true Madi Moment. To put it in perspective, I've posted the quote that begins that chapter (I begin all my chapters with a fun quote). Maybe you can relate. If not, then maybe you can get a little chuckle. Or, better yet, maybe you'll run over to Amazon or your favorite bookstore and buy my book!

"Maturity is knowing when to be immature."

-Randall Hall, guitarist for Lynyrd Skynard

“I’m not in the mood to talk, Rich.”

“Well, it’s not all about you, Madi.”

“It’s not about me at all, is it?” I raise my eyebrows and give him my best witchy expression.

Rich rolls his eyes. “I can see you haven’t come to your senses yet.”

“I don’t have time for this.”

“Well, when do you predict you’ll have time? To talk, I mean.”

I ram my fists into my sides. “I don’t know. I’ve never been cheated on before—at least, that I know of. I’ll keep you posted, ’kay?”

He sighs and runs a gloved hand through his hair. He stares off into the distance for a few seconds before shaking his head. “I’m trying to be civil here, and you’re being malicious.”

“That’s me—Malicious Madi.”

“Just let me say one thing.”

“Nope. No more talking.” I close the rear hatch and make my way around the side of the van.

“Madi, please.”

I stick my fingers in my ears. “La la la la la la la la la la la…”

“C-mon, Madi, you’re acting like one of my students.” His voice is slightly muffled but I hear every word.

If I were the princess Sarah says I am, perhaps I would gracefully ignore his comment and exit quietly. But, because Grumpy is my persona, I turn and scowl. “I’ll give you fourth-grade, Rich.” Then I do something I haven’t done in thirty years. I stick out my tongue and blow, spit flying.

I climb into the van, back out and gun it. Richard stands there, shaking his head. So blowing raspberries at my husband may have been a little immature. But it sure made me feel a heck of a lot better.

So tell me. Have you ever behaved like a child? Or wanted to? Do share!

Snow Days and Book Contracts

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

With the mild winter we've had over here in Michigan, my kids are dying for a snow day. Never mind the fact that they just got 2 weeks off for Christmas Break and have 2 days off next week after exams. They want a snow day! My kids are in high school now, but I teased them last night that they'd better do all those things they did in elementary school to ensure a snow day the next morning: wear their pajamas inside out (or boxers, in my son's case), put a spoon under their pillow, flush ice cubes down the toilet. I don't think they did any of those things (can you imagine if it got out on Facebook?) but I did catch them looking out the window several times to make sure the snow was still falling fast and furiously.

But really, who can blame them? There is something about having a snow day that bring a sense of anticipation...excitement...joy...and downright giddyness!

Kind of like getting that book contract.

How, you ask? Like this:

1. I will make it happen. Like the spoon, the pajamas, and the ice cubes, we try to make our book deal happen. Yes, we have to work towards publication, but we try to force it. We do things like self-publish a poorly (or non) edited book, make deals with God, or corner poor unsuspecting agents and editors in the bathroom to pitch our novel. We forget that we can't make a book deal happen any more than kids can make it snow. When it comes down to it, God is in control.

2. Work? What work? Kids don't think about the fact that if there's a snow day - especially 2 or 3 in a row - they will need to make up all of the work they missed. If enough snow days occur, they may even have to tack on a couple days at the end of the school year. In the same way, writers sometimes think that getting that book contract is the end, when it's really only the beginning. Edits, marketing, book signings...be prepared for more work than you ever imagined.

3. My lip is quivering. Your kids experience it when you gently nudge them awake in the morning. They rub the sleep from their eyes and ask you to repeat what you just said. "There is no snow day?" The feeling of disappointment overcomes them. Oh, man, no fair! Especially when 200 other schools are closed and theirs isn't. Every writer has experienced that same disappointment, in the form of a rejection letter, or an editor's disinterest in the pitch you just gave at your conference appointment. We may even resort to the child's response: "No fair!" Especially when it seems like everyone is landing contracts except you.

4. Break out the dance moves. But then there is that moment when a child wakes up and realizes it's two hours later than his mom usually wakes him up for school. Aha! That must mean it's a snow day! Yippee!! As hard as it is to drag him out of bed every other morning, today he can't get up fast enough. He is elated and walks on air for the rest of the day. If you've ever received a "yes" on your manuscript, you know the feeling. There is nothing like getting "the call" informing you that your dream is coming true. It may be days of hovering between the floor and ceiling before you finally come down.

My kids really were hoping for a snow day today. They experienced a bit of #3 today, as 241 schools around the area were closed and their doors remain open. Bummer for them.

Wishing all of you writers out there that #4 feeling very soon!

Fantabulous Fun with Wacky Words

2012-01-11T07:06:00.000-05:00

While working on How Christmas Saved the Grinch, our church's Christmas production last year, my co-writer Diane and I had a lot of fun with words. Not only creating the words that would eventually come alive on stage, but coming up with new and fun words, Dr. Seuss-style. A couple were taken from the Jim Carey version of The Grinch and a few were just fun words we've all heard before, and some others were extensions of other words. But then there were those we had a blast totally making up. At least, we think we made them up. If we're taking credit where credit isn't due, so sorry! But I thought you'd enjoy taking a look at a few of these fictional words and poems that we included in our script of The Grinch that are just plain fun.

KERBOBBLED...CHOCOWHOCHIP...FLANGLE FOO. We took the word "Kerbobbled" from the Jim Carey version of The Grinch. The other two are original (as far as I know). Cindy Lou uses all three in one chunk of dialogue during a conversation with her dad. She says..."But Daddy, I’m sad. When Mayor May Who was talking about the Grinch, everyone seemed so… Kerbobbled. Isn’t there a way to get the Grinch to be nice and happy? Maybe we can bake him some choco-Who-chip cookies or bring him some flangle-foo flowers."

FANTABULOUS...I was surprised to learn that this word originated way back in the 1950s. It's recently made a comeback and it was a perfect line for the Grinch when he tried on his self-made Santa coat. "I look fantabulous!"

POSITUTELY...love this word, a combination of Positively and absolutely. Said by the mayor..."No, Cindy Lou, the Grinch will absolutely, positutely NOT be joining us for Christmas!"

DILLY DALLY...an oldie but goodie. This two-word combination just rolls of the tongue and is such fun to say. Cindy Lou's dad uses it when he and his wife, Mindy, are heading back to Whoville for the Christmas Eve celebration. "Well, now don’t you girls dilly dally. You don’t want to miss out on the celebration preparations, dontcha know."

FRAZZLED FIZZY FOO...You know the saying, "last one there is a rotten egg!" In Whoville, Cindy Lou's friend Patty Sue uses a different variation. "Last one there is a frazzled fizzy foo!"

HORRIBLE-O-NIOUS... this word is used by the Mayor of Whoville when describing The Grinch. "...And remember…if you happen to spot a nasty green horrible-onious looking creature, report directly to my lowly assistant, AnyWho. The Grinch will not spoil our Whobilation Christmas Day celebration!"

GRUEL-AID...The Grinch's version of Kool-aid. He tries offering a glass to the police officers who come and try to arrest him: "Wait! Do we have time for a glass of snotty-slimy-sticky-gooey Gruel-Aid"

Fun poems with extra fun words:

I asked for a set

of fumble bum-bum drums

and a razzle dazzle pack

of chizzle chewing gum!

Are you crazy? Last summer,

the Grinch stole my bike...

My 10x wuzzle whiffer

with the spinning spangled spike!

The Grinch stuck out his foot

and made my grandma trip

she went biz-banger-bump!

and broke her hip!

What are some words you've made up or just think are positutely fun to say?

No more fat pants

2012-01-09T08:00:00.021-05:00

So I bit the bullet and signed up (again) for Weight Watchers Online. Hey, it works when I actually stick to it. And I am determined to stick to it this time.

And today I begin...

In my Madi series, Madi's go-to food when she's feeling stressed, bored, or just plain hungry, is Edy's Dibs. Have you ever tried those things? Yum! There are a bazillion flavors and there's no way you can eat just a couple. Break out the giant ice cream bowl and fill-er-up. Or, better yet, just eat right out of the carton.

As much as I love Edy's Dibs, my personal temptation is regular ice cream. Any flavor will do, but I'm partial to anything of the vanilla variety (cookie dough, cookies and cream, just plain vanilla) as long as it is drenched in Hershey's Syrup. It doesn't help that my husband works for a dairy company and during the holidays brought home a 3-gallon tub (do you know how HUGE that is?) of Hudsonville Cookie Dough. Well, my daughter helped a little, but let's just say I way overdosed on ice cream - plus went through 2 bottles of Hershey's syrup - in less than 3 weeks. Yes, it does embarrass me to admit it, but there it is.

But no more. The tub of ice cream is history and my freezer and fridge are both stocked with Weight Watchers meals and other healthy foods. The only ice cream allowed in my house are the Weight Watchers desserts. At least with those, there's portion control.

By the end of Mind over Madi, Madi shows signs of getting a grip on her Edy's Dibs addiction. Although I know she'll slip up, and she's not eliminating sweets completely from her diet, it's a start.

What about you? What is your go-to food addiction? Do you prefer rich and creamy or salty and crunchy? And the better question...what, if anything, are you doing to get your addiction under control?

By George, I think I've got it!

2012-01-06T07:00:00.012-05:00

After posting a series of articles on time management on Examiner.com that includes tips and schedules from fellow Christian authors (there are some great ideas there!), I think I have come up with a general schedule that will work for me in the new year. Because I have an outside job that requires 2-3 days per week, and the days each week vary, I can't be super specific, but I can be consistent. So this is what I came up with. This schedule is flexible, as I will also have to fit in appointments, etc., but will serve as a general guideline for me.

TWO or THREE DAYS PER WEEK:

6:30am - 4:00pm Work my outside job
4:00pm - 6:30pm Answer emails, make dinner, clean up, family time
6:30pm - 9:00pm Marketing, emails, read for reviews

TWO or THREE DAYS PER WEEK

6:00am - 11:00am Work on my novel
11:00am - 12:00pm Lunch and read
12:00pm - 3:00pm Marketing, freelancing - articles, book reviews, newsletters, critiquing
3:00pm - 6:30pm Family time, dinner, clean up
6:30pm - 9:00pm Marketing, emails, read for reviews

WEEKENDS

Prepare 3 weekly blog posts
Prepare all weekly Examiner articles (5-8)
Read books for reviews
Work on novel, as time allows

Novel Word Count Schedule

In keeping with my spring deadline for Madily in Love (eek!), I have a word count goal of at least 700 words per day - or 4,900 words per week. I am participating in the ACFW Novel Tracker this month to keep me accountable. So far, I am just slightly behind my daily target (by 500 words). I hope to make that up this weekend.

It feels good to have some sort of schedule laid out. What about you? Do you have a specific schedule you've been following for a while or have you reworked your plan for 2012?

A is for ACFW

2012-01-04T07:00:00.007-05:00

IS FOR...

Welcome to my first installment of my A 2 Z 4 U and Me! What a fun meme this is! Thanks to Patty Wysong and Joanne Sher for giving me the idea and allowing me to steal it.

Throughout the year, on Wednesdays, we'll be going through the alphabet, one post at a time. We'll start today with A, and every other week (or so), we'll move on to the next letter. The objective is to blog about something that begins with the featured letter. It could be something you're dealing with in your life at the moment, it might be a general post containing several words that start with that letter. Fun, right?

The best part is, YOU can play along. Create your own blog post centering around the featured letter, then leave a link to your blog, using the MISTER LINKY tool below. I can't wait to see what word(s) you come up with for each letter.

I had no trouble coming up with my word for my first A2Z4UandMe post. It's one that has been instrumental in my journey as a writer - more specifically, an author. It is ACFW. Which stands for AMERICAN CHRISTIAN FICTION WRITERS.

When I joined ACFW way back in 2007, I had no idea the impact it would have on my life. And I certainly didn't know how many wonderful friends I would meet. Friends who would provide valuable feedback, helpful advice, tips and tools of the trade, encouragement, support, and prayer.

Crit buds Catherine West & Jenness Walker

ACFW offers so many benefits to its members. Just a few of the features are: organized critique groups, monthly online writing courses, a novel word-count tracking loop, local chapter groups, helpful information on agents and editors (many of whom are also members), and rubbing shoulders with some of my favorite authors.

And then there is the fabulous annual writer's conference. I have attended two ACFW conferences so far - one in Denver and one in St. Louis. I can honestly say that both were experiences I will cherish for the rest of my life. The teaching, the worship, the glamorous awards gala, connecting the friends...priceless!

My other favorite ACFW feature is the Genesis Contest. As a three-time finalist and one-time semi-finalist, I can't sing enough praises for this prestigious contest for unpublished authors. Mind over Madi took 2nd place in its category in 2008. To now be able to hold the finished product in my hands is a dream come true. I am no longer eligible for the Genesis because I am now published, and as thrilled as I am about that, a part of me will miss entering!

Speaking of, this is the perfect time to mention ACFW, because the 2012 Genesis contest has just opened for entries! For more information, visit the official Contest Page.

Whether you are published or unpublished, if you write fiction (or want to), become a member of ACFW. I personally promise you will not regret it.

So there's my A word - and a well-deserved plug for ACFW. This organization really has blessed my socks off. A special shout-out to all of my Awesome and Amazing ACFW friends and fellow Authors!

Your turn! Join me by blogging about an A-Word this week, then leave the link via Mister Linky so I can check it out. Thanks for playing along!

Comparing New Year's Resolutions

2012-01-02T05:32:00.000-05:00

As I made my list of New Year's resolutions the other day, I found myself thinking about Madi, the main character in my novel Mind over Madi, and what her list of resolutions would look like. You see, Madi and I have a lot in common. We share a love for chocolate, coffee, and computer games, and have an insane fear of spiders. We both come from dysfunctional families, and struggle with the same doubts about God's love for us. So it comes as no surprise that if Madi were to create a list of resolutions, it would probably look a lot like mine.

1. Trim the fat. Madi's vice? Edy's Dibs. Mine? Vanilla ice cream with Hershey's syrup. While Madi is only 10 pounds overweight, I am...well, let's just say dropping 30 pounds wouldn't kill me. It's time to lose the excess once and for all.

2. Get rid of the waste. No, not the gross kind, just the kind that eats up my time with nothing to show for it. Madi finds herself playing hour after hour of computer Solitaire. I'm more partial to Bejeweled Blitz. Regardless of the game, it's time to take control of my time. Especially now that I have signed contracts for the next two books in the Madi series, wasting time is not an option.

3. Keep the lines open. The lines of communication, that is. Madi tends to sweep things under the rug and not confront her issues until she has no choice. I, on the other hand, typically want to deal with my stuff as soon as possible. But there are times when I want to crawl under the covers and not come out until my husband changes his behavior, the kids are out of the house, or my dysfunctional family functionalizes itself. But, that wouldn't work because I'd die of starvation before then. The best option is to face my issues, head on. Preceded with lots of prayer, of course.

4. Stop judging books by their cover. I try not to judge. I really do. But, come on, it's not easy. Just ask Madi. She made assumptions about her arch nemesis, Fawn Witchburn, based on gossip and Fawn's looks. She also got a harsh reality check because of it. This year, I will try to give people the benefit of the doubt and work on my own issues instead of judging theirs.

5. Keep my nose in THE Book. When life got hard, Madi turned away from God instead of toward Him. My reasons for slacking off on my personal devotions is usually busyness. But it's when life gets crazy that I need Him most. My goal is to first focus on God. Then, as Matthew 6:33 promises, everything else will fall into place.

What about you? Do you share any of Madi's and my resolutions? What goals have you set for the new year?

Ch-ch-ch-Changes...

2011-12-30T14:55:00.000-05:00

I mentioned in my last post that I've been spending some time reflecting on the past year and thinking ahead to the one ahead (like many of us are doing as we prepare for 2012). And if you read my BLOG BLEH post, you know I've been thinking of ways to improve my blog. My biggest blog goal this year is not to gain more followers (although I wouldn't complain!) but to connect more with my readers and build relationships, however virtual they may be. As much as I would love to meet you all in person, chances are that won't happen this side of heaven. But that doesn't mean we can't connect online and share our hearts, our thoughts, and our faith.

Before I post the changes I will be implementing, mainly in the way of daily (well, 3 per week) themes for 2012, I want to note a couple of major changes.

1. I do not plan on posting any writing "how-to" type articles on my blog. Anything relating to the writing process (freelance writing or writing in general) will now be posted on my Examiner.com page. As the National Christian Writing Examiner, I'm thinking that is a better platform for writing-related articles. I do encourage you to subscribe to my posts there, so you can get those delivered directly to you, as posted (This could be anywhere between 1-5 per week). You can check out all of my Christian Writing articles and subscribe on THIS PAGE.

2. I will now be posting most author interviews, book reviews, and new book release information on my Grand Rapids Christian Fiction Examiner page. As with the Christian Writing content, I'm thinking there's no sense in posting fiction information in two places. Examiner.com is the avenue I intend on using to promote all things related to Christian fiction. Again, I hope you will subscribe to those posts so you don't miss anything. You can check out my current articles (my favorite it the Author Fun Facts, which features lots fun tidbits about your favorite Christian authors), and subscribe to those articles HERE.

BY THE WAY...if you are an author, PLEASE feel free to contact me if/when: your book is released; you have a book signing event in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area (I can only post events in my city); you have a writing-related article you'd be willing to share with my Examiner audience; you want to schedule an interview (I am always looking for Journey to Publication and Fun Facts interviews - I provide the questions, you provide the answers). I love promoting other Christian authors and welcome your content and news.

OK...onto my blog schedule for 2012.. I reserve the right to change this schedule at any time (it is my blog, after all! :-)) I may miss a few posts here and there when life gets hectic, but starting next week, on January 2nd, I hope to stick to the following themes.

MONDAY - Madi Moment Mondays... My friend Carrie Crawford came up with this term and I love it. If you've read my book, you know that my main character, Madi McCall, has a few issues. In Mind over Madi, she deals with insecurities, kids who test her patience and turn her hair gray, a dysfunctional family, addiction to Edy's Dibs and computer games, and arachnophobia. She regularly sees a psychologist, who tries getting Madi to find her inner princess. (If you haven't read my book, what are you waiting for? Click on the Amazon link to the left!)

So, on Mondays, I may share a personal "Madi Moment" situation from my own life. I may post some fun facts about princesses. Maybe I'll open up discussion about insecurity or motherhood. Or I may just include a passage from my book. Whatever I post about, it will relate, in some way, to my book, my characters, or the theme of the story. Should be fun.

WEDNESDAY - Wednesday Word(s)... Writers and words go together like the Kardashians and television. What I like about the word "Word" is it offers several options. One idea I'm stealing from my friend, Joanne Sher (check out her blog, An Open Book), is A2Z4UandMe. This is a blog meme where you start with the letter A and work your way toward Z, one blog post at a time, coming up with one word (or several words) to describe each letter. It seems like a lot of fun. I do intend to get through the alphabet in 2012, so this will use up 26 weeks of Wednesday Words. The other 26 weeks may consist of devotionals based on THE Word, or anything else relating to the wonderful world of words.

FRIDAY - Fancy-Free Fridays - The phrase says it all. Who knows what you'll get on Fridays? Could be a personal reflection, a list of some sort, a book giveaway, a guest post, or another fun something-or-other. A little mystery is good for the soul. So I'll keep you guessing with Fancy-Free Fridays.

Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedules to read my blog. I hope you'll stick with me in the new year. I look forward to connecting with you more in 2012!

List Maker, List Maker, Make me a List

2011-12-28T10:17:00.001-05:00

Every year, during the week between Christmas and New Year's, I do a lot of reflecting and planning. Reflecting on the past year and planning for the one ahead. On Friday, I will be posting about my new blogging schedule for next year. But today, I want to talk about writing schedules in general.

It's no secret that one area I struggle with is time management. And with the deadline for my next novel only a few months away, I really need to get a handle on this thing. Having a deadline is both scary and exciting. Scary because...hello...what if I don't get it done on time? Breaking a contract is not acceptable to me. But exciting because I have something to work towards. Something I know will bring me immense satisfaction and joy (and eventually...hopefully... a nice royalty check!).

I'm a huge time-effective wannabe. And one of the ways I try to be organized and efficient is by making lists. In fact, I make lists for just about everything you can think of: groceries, what to pack for an over-nighter, upcoming events, things I want to purchase for the house, repairs needed for the house, articles I want to write, books I've read or want to read, the list goes on...(pun intended). Of course, my main list is my "to-do" list. I go nowhere without my Franklin Planner. Every day is ink-filled with my to-do's, both writing and non-writing related.

Here's the thing. I'm may be good at list making, but could use a crash course in "list following." Sometimes I spend more time making lists than actually doing the things on the list. Oh, I have good intentions, I just get distracted. A lot. Like with that pile of laundry, the movie I really want to see, and that darned Bejeweled Blitz, winking at me every time I sign onto Facebook. Discipline is something God has been trying to teach me for a long time. And I am finally ready - and willing - to submit.

But, I'm convinced there IS a specific schedule that will work for me. If only I can figure out what it is. So, I put out a call to my trusty author friends for help. All this week on Examiner.com, I am posting the tried-and-tested schedules of several other writers and authors. I am even holding out hope that one of their schedules will be the perfect one for me. If not, at least I hope to glean from them, possibly using an idea or two to create a custom schedule for myself. I encourage you to check out the suggestions posted so far on my National Christian Writing Examiner page.

So tell me. What does your writing schedule look like? How do you get it all done every day? Do you have a schedule that works or will you be revising your schedule in 2012?

The most beautifully wrapped package of all

2011-12-22T06:53:00.000-05:00

I know a lot of people who hate wrapping Christmas presents. They even pay someone to wrap their gifts for them so they don't have to do it. Many times, to make things easy, we stick our gifts in a bag with some tissue paper. Personally, I enjoy wrapping gifts. I'm not the world's best wrapper, but I do okay. But whether you love it or dread it, wrapping gifts is essential. I can't imagine handing someone an unwrapped gift, can you? And if we put unwrapped gifts under the tree, that would take away the mystery...the anticipation...the surprise.

I had the honor of co-writing my church's very large Christmas production this year (with friend and fellow blogger, Diane Loew). About 12,000 people came over the course of 4 presentations to watch How Christmas Saved the Grinch. Hundreds turned their hearts and lives to Christ. This morning, I even received a message from an old high school friend, who told me about her friend and her friend's daughter, who had turned away from the church for a while. They were invited to come to the Grinch production and, as a result, renewed their relationship with Jesus and are planning on coming to our Christmas service and are excited about getting back to church! Could there be anything cooler?

Many said the show rivaled Civic Theater productions, and for me, it really was an incredible experience! How Christmas Saved the Grinch was my first attempt at script writing and I enjoyed every moment of the process. We put a spin on the classic Grinch tale, using bits and pieces from the Jim Carey movie version, but most of the dialogue was original. And, of course, it included a Christ-centered message. It was awesome to see how God brought everyone together to make this production come alive. From the lead director, whose vision for this production started two years ago, to the assistant directors, to the choreographers, to the dancers, actors, set designers, costume creators, makeup artists, and sound and video team...we couldn't have done it without any single one of them.

One of my favorite scenes is towards the end, where Cindy Lou is talking to the Grinch about the true meaning of Christmas (photo above). The Grinch thinks the only reason the Whos are celebrating Christmas is because of the gifts. Cindy Lou explains that Jesus is the only gift they need. Here is a portion of the dialogue:

CINDY: Mr. Grinch, God loves us so much he wanted to give the world an extra special gift. A lot more special than a new bike or a talking doll. His gift forgives us of our sins. His gift helps us to love each and every Who. Most of all, this gift is the only way for us to live forever in heaven with God. Do you know what this gift is? It is God’s only son, Jesus.

GRINCH: I thought gifts only come wrapped with a bow. What are you saying, Cindy Lou?

CINDY: You see, a long time ago, God picked a girl named Mary to have a baby. Mary and her husband Joseph traveled a long way to the little town of Bethlehem. As they entered the city, it was time for the baby to be born and the only place they had to stay was a stable. And on that very first Christmas night, Baby Jesus was born. The shepherds were watching their sheep at night and an angel came to them and said, “For unto you is born this day, in the City of David, a Savior. He is Christ, the Lord. And this shall be a sign to you: You will find the baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.”

GRINCH: So this gift was wrapped (said gently with smile).

When we think of wrapping presents, we think of red, green, or gold metallic paper. Or maybe bells or snowmen or Santas or reindeer print. We think of curly ribbon or shiny bows, Scotch tape and scissors.

But, if you read the Christmas story in Luke, you'll notice that material gifts aren't the only ones that come wrapped. The gift God gave us all those years ago -- the very first Christmas present ever handed out -- was wrapped, too. But instead of fancy packaging, this gift was wrapped in simple swaddling clothes.

Could there be a more beautifully wrapped gift? And, more importantly, will you receive it?

Blog Bleh

2011-12-21T07:49:00.002-05:00

For the past several months, I've been experiencing "Blog Bleh". By that, I mean I haven't been happy with my blog. Oh, I love promoting other authors, and I've liked some of my personal entries, but for some reason, I haven't been satisfied with the content I've been providing. I feel scatter-brained and un-focused, which has sapped my drive. Blogging has become a chore...something I feel I have to do, rather than something I look forward to. And I think it shows in the posts.

I look at other blogs and see the dozens of comments posted on every blog entry. I wonder why some bloggers consistently receive 20+ comments on every blog post and I get maybe 3 or 4. It's not a matter of competitiveness. I really just want to connect with my readers in the same way they seem to. Recently, I've been studying these blogs and their authors to understand what draws readers and compels them to leave comments. Three things I've noticed are:

1. Focused material. Jody Hedlund does a fabulous job of consistently providing wonderful content for writers and authors. She is an excellent teacher, not to mention an award-winning novelist, and her advice is always spot-on. She takes topics of interest to writers and puts a spin on them, or presents them in a new way. I've also noticed she offers a lot of numbered lists, like 5 ways to do something, or 6 tips on something else, or 3 pieces of advice for such and such. This creates easy-to-understand and easy-to-implement tools that help us improve as writers. It's obvious that this type of teaching resonates with visitors, as Jody's blog followers currently tops 1,600!

2. Getting personal. If you know the name Terri Tiffany, you probably know she has an incredibly tender and sincere heart. Terri shares her testimonies, her struggles, her fears. Readers relate to her because she's real. She's not an award-winning novelist (yet), but she has several writing credits to her name, including many stories in Chicken Soup for the Soul and other anthologies. Terri talks about her writing, but she rarely offers tips and advice. Rather, she shares her own personal experience and often asks a question at the end of her blog entry, inviting readers to share their experiences, too. When Terri jumped back into blogging after taking a looong hiatus, her readers were right there to welcome her back with open arms. She has almost 500 blog followers and dozens of regular comments on every entry.

3. Interaction. The thing that perhaps draws readers in the most is regular interaction. Responding to comments, hopping over to other blogs and leaving comments of our own. I'll admit this is something I could improve on. We've all heard the phrase, "if you want a friend, you need to be a friend." The same thing is true in blogging. "If you want blog friends, you need to be a blog friend." People want to feel as though you're invested in them and truly care about getting to know them. For me, I think it's a matter of being too distracted with "stuff" I need to get done that I don't make the time to connect like I should. I do get around in the blogosphere. People may know my name. But I need to work harder at making a more personal connection.

I am currently seeking God on the direction to take regarding my blog. I'd love to provide freelancing content, but I could do that over on Examiner.com, where I'm the National Christian Writing Examiner. I'd love to continue promoting Christian fiction, but I could be doing that over on Examiner.com, where I am also the Grand Rapids Christian Fiction Examiner. I'm thinking that duplicating content is not a wise way to manage my time.

So what do I blog about? I certainly don't want every post to be about self-promotion, although I'm not above a shameless plug now and then. I'm feeling more drawn towards blogging about my personal stuff and how it ties into writing. Maybe including a scripture reflection. Perhaps I could blog about topics within my book. Mind over Madi deals with insecurity, childhood hurts, family, and going through this crazy little thing we call life. It also includes humor, which is an excellent way to sometimes deal with the crazy little issues of this life. Lots of potential there.

I will be praying about this in the next week or so and hope to come up with something concrete by December 31st. I'd love to start out the new year a little more organized and focused in the area of blogging. Maybe even have particular themes for particular days.

For now, I have a couple of questions for you.

What do you do to connect with blog visitors? And what type of content would you most like to read on my blog?

Meet Christmas Belles of Georgia Author, Rose McCauley

2011-12-15T07:00:00.021-05:00

If you're looking for some good Christmas fiction and are a fan of novellas, I have a wonderful recommendation for you! Recently released is this holiday anthology collection from Barbour Publishing. Christmas Belles of Georgia. Here's the synopsis:

They were sisters once—identical quadruplets—given up for adoption at birth. Now each receives a letter advising her to claim her inheritance and the family she never knew. . .at Christmas. Holly feels betrayed when she learns she’s adopted, while Carol prays for a loving family. Starr thinks it’s all a hoax, and Noelle needs a break from a hopeless situation. There are more surprises in store as each young woman gets just the gift she wants—and needs. You’ll be warmed by love in these interwoven tales of the ultimate Christmas gift. . .

Sounds awesome, doesn't it?

I had the opportunity to chat with Rose McCauley, whose novella, Nick's Christmas Carol, is included in this book. Rose is a debut author and I'm thrilled to introduce her to you today!

LYNDA: Welcome, Rose! Start by telling us how many years have you been writing.

ROSE MCCAULEY: I started writing with publication in mind about 10 years ago.

LYNDA: What was the first thing you ever had published?

ROSE: I was editor of my HS newspaper, the Portland Broadcaster, does that count?

LYNDA: Of course it counts!

ROSE: Well, my first paid writing piece was 3 selections in 101 Ways to Romance your Marriage compiled by Debra White. (Harvest House)

LYNDA: Describe what the road to publication was like for you.

ROSE: Lots of curves and stop lights and speeding up and slowing down! Now finally reaching my destination only to find it is just a stop along the way and I have much more travelling to do on this publication road!

LYNDA: Do you have an agent? How did you acquire him/her?

ROSE: I had an agent for awhile but not at present. Andrea Boeshaar called me up and said God had placed me on her heart but stopped agenting the next year.

LYNDA: How long was it from the time you first started submitting to editors and/or agents to the time you landed a publishing contract?

ROSE: 8 years!

LYNDA: Describe the moment when you got "The Call."

ROSE: It wasn't the call so much as an announcement at the ACFW conference in Indianapolis in Sept. 2010 in front of 600 people! You can read about it on my blogpost in Sept. 2010.

LYNDA: Is being published different than you thought it would be? How?

ROSE: The main difference is all the time it is taking me to market/publicize my book. Since it is a Christmas story, I feel like I need to do all I can to get the word out before Dec. 24! Then I'll take a breather and start in on the next leg of my journey.

LYNDA: What are two pieces of advice you would give to authors desperately seeking publication?

ROSE: 2 P-words: Pray for God's guidance and Persevere!

LYNDA: Your novella included in Christmas Belles of Georgia is titled, Nick's Christmas Carol. What is the story about?

ROSE: Mine is the second girl mentioned above--Carol.

LYNDA: Was it difficult to write an anthology, where multiple stories by multiple authors are intertwined? What was the process like? How did you correlate your facts?

ROSE: It was a great experience because the three authors I worked with--Jeanie Smith Cash, Jeri Odell and Deb Ullrick--were all so professional and great to work with. We did most of our chats by email with a few phone calls. Then we read each others stories and tried to catch any discrepancies.

LYNDA: Do you have a favorite Christmas Carol?

ROSE: I love them ALL, but Joy to the World is a fave! What a joy it is to know that Christ has come and will come again!

LYNDA: What about a favorite holiday tradition?

ROSE: We just experienced this again for the umpteenth time this past weekend. When our own kids were younger we would decorate the tree, then let the kids sleep underneath the lit tree one night during December. Now we let the grandkids do it. they are 10, 11, and 12, and we have a new grandbaby due in March so hope to add her to the tradition in a couple years!

LYNDA: What are you working on now? Any other projects in the works?

ROSE: I have an 87,000 word novel finished that I would love to see pubbed and have several sequels in mind for that. Plus another WF novel plotted out but not written down yet. and I have 4 more proposals with Barbour similar to Christmas Belles of Georgia, that I hope will be contracted.

LYNDA: Thanks for the opportunity to get to know you better, Rose. Much success to you with your Christmas anthology and all of the other projects you have in the works.
______________________________________________________

Rose has been writing for over ten years and has been published in several non-fiction anthologies and devotionals. She is happy for this to be her first fiction anthology because Christmas books are her favorites. A retired schoolteacher who has been happily married to her college sweetheart for 43 years, she is also mother to three grown children and their spouses and grandmother to three lovely, lively kids with one more on the way! You can reach her through her website www.rosemccauley.com or blogsite at www.rosemccauley.blogspot.com

PURCHASE CHRISTMAS BELLES OF GEORGIA at your local Christian bookstore or at AMAZON.COM

Shining a Light this Christmas

2011-12-13T08:34:00.000-05:00

I hope you don't mind, but I'm reposting (sort of) an entry from last Christmas. I found it in my archives, and it moved me. Probably because so far, the holidays this year have been crazy and I've spent more time thinking about everything I have to do than reflecting on others.

Last year I mentioned a few people in my life who were experiencing especially difficult times. Here's a brief update:

My cousin found out a month or so ago that she has Stage 4 ovarian cancer. She has a husband who adores her and a 10-year old son. She's currently undergoing chemo. Praise God she is healed and doing great!

After being extremely fatigued over the summer and being extremely sick and dehydrated for the past few weeks, my uncle (my cousin's father-in-law) discovered he has lung cancer, which has already matastasized to his bone. My uncle died a few months later, followed by my aunt (his wife), who died from heart trouble.

One of my very best friends got divorced this past year from a very emotionally abusive man. She lost her job last month and is quickly running out of money. I am thrilled to report my friend now has a great job and God is blessing her side photography and writing business, which is her passion!

Yesterday, my Bible Study group prepared a gift basket for a woman with chronic pain and health problems, whose husband virtually abandoned her to move several states away, leaving her to raise two children on barely any income and no support. This woman is now reconciled with her husband, who accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior. The family now attends church together. God is good!!

This year, I know a few people who are struggling. My cousins and their kids (the children and grandchildren of the aunt and uncle who died), are still heavily grieving. One of my dear friends just lost her father and is heading out of state for his funeral today. Three other friends have a parent currently in Hospice care. Other friends are experiencing major financial challenges.

Maybe you know someone in a similar circumstance. Maybe you're the circumstance.

There are people (maybe you) who won't be having the perfect magical Christmas that the television commercials portray. There are people in pain, and those who will spend their holidays in a hospital or alone. I wonder how God feels when I get so caught up in my own little life and the craziness of the holidays that I miss opportunities to be a light to those who are hurting. While I complain about the crowds at the mall or all the baking and wrapping I have to do, there are some who would give anything just to have enough money to buy their child a gift or have someone to bake for.

Shame on me.

Have you ever sat in the dark staring at your Christmas tree lights? Isn't it beautiful? Imagine that the Christmas tree is your world and you're one of those lights. You can add to the beauty of your world. You can shine to those around you.

Oh, my holidays will probably always be filled with shopping, wrapping, baking, planning...craziness...but I will be more aware of those around me. I will be spending more time praying, being a friend, and simply shining a light to those who are hurting. Want to join me? Consider the following ideas:

*Invite a hurting friend for coffee.

*Head to the nursing home and spend time talking to the residents - ask the nurses which ones don't get many visitors and focus on them. Maybe bring a small gift to pass around or bring the kids to sing Christmas carols (if you're kids aren't little anymore, borrow your nieces and nephews).

*Hang lights or decorate the home of a single mother or someone in chronic pain. Offer to take down those lights after the holidays.

*Offer to babysit for a frazzled stay-at-home mom.

*Shovel (or snowblow) the driveway of an elderly neighbor.

*Bake several mini loaves of banana bread and pass them out to the homeless (or your neighbors!)

*Adopt a family for Christmas.

*Hire an out-of-work husband and father to do odd jobs around your house.

*Pay for the car behind you in the drive-thru line. A friend of mine was in the McDonald's drive-thru the other day and when she got up to the window to pay, the cashier told her that someone two cars ahead of her handed her a fifty dollar bill and said to keep paying for drive-thru customers until the money ran out. Is that cool, or what!

*Pray, pray, pray for those you come into contact with every day. You may not know their needs, but God does!

Below is one of my favorite Christmas songs. It's a perfect compliment to this post. I hope you'll take a minute to check it out.

What about you?

How do you keep things in perspective and look outside of yourself during the holidays?

Getting Blitzed, Amazon Style

2011-12-09T07:08:00.000-05:00

BLITZ: A fast, intensive campaign

You may have heard of something called an AMAZON BLITZ. This is where an author attempts to get as many people as possible to buy his or her book within a very short period of time, in order to "up" their book ranking and push their novel towards the top of the Amazon best-seller list. Since Amazon updates their best-selling list hourly, some authors do this so they can add "best selling author" to their resume'. Of course, this is a little like cheating the system. Even if the author breaks the top 100, chances are, after the Amazon Blitz is over, he or she will slide back down to 750,000th place again.

Personally, I am not holding an Amazon Blitz so I can be known as a best-selling author. That status can be added to my title if and when I start writing books that make readers willing to stand in line for hours before they are officially released to the public. Or when my sales rival those of Karen Kingsbury, Beverly Lewis, or Debbie Macomber.

For now, just call me a struggling author. And that, my friends, is exactly the reason I'm holding an Amazon Blitz. To sell more books and to push Mind over Madi to a higher "ranking." Not so I can call myself a best-selling author, but so my title comes up sooner in Amazon lists. Because the closer to the top of the list I am, the more quickly my book will show up in the categories my book is "tagged" in. So, for instance, if someone searches for "insecurity" or "women's fiction" or "family life," maybe my book would show up on the 2nd page instead of the 85th page. And book sales is the only thing that boosts that ranking. And higher rankings is the thing that best boosts sales!

SO ....I am asking for your help. If you have been thinking about buying Mind over Madi for yourself or someone on your gift giving list, please consider purchasing through Amazon on the following dates:

THURSDAY OR FRIDAY, December 15 & 16.

And if you could do it via the link on my blog, that would help me even more.

But even if you do not plan on buying my book (or already have!), can you please put a shout out on social media networks like FACEBOOK and TWITTER, asking readers to buy my book on these two days?

This would be so helpful and much appreciated!

Thank you thank you thank you for helping me out. And please forgive me if you receive an email and/or Facebook messages regarding my Amazon Blitz. The point of this whole thing is to ~~annoy~~ inform as many people as possible about the Blitz -- and, of course, my book!

Now a little about MIND OVER MADI (from the back cover):

All men cheat. At least, that’s what Madi’s mother has always told her.

Madi McCall admits her husband lacks a little in the romance department, but all in all, he’s been a good husband, a good father. Now, though, she suspects Rich is having an affair with Fawn Witchburn, the mother of one of his fourth-grade students. To say Fawn shows off her “assets” more than should be legally allowed in public is an understatement, and Madi’s insecurities kick into high gear. When, in a heated moment, she asks Rich to leave and he complies, Madi is forced to deal with her issues. Issues of love and trust she’s tried so hard to avoid. Issues that trail all the way back to her childhood and make her act like a total moron.

Delightful. Witty. Entertaining. Real. Poignant.

Light-hearted Women’s Fiction at Its Best

“A dynamic novel that takes readers on a roller-coaster ride of emotions that echo their own scream-inducing moments...all while reminding us that even when it seems the world is off-track, God is in the seat beside us, promising we’ll be okay when the ride stops. Reserve space on your ‘keepers’ shelf for this one!” - Loree Lough, award-winning author of 83 books, including reader favorite From Ashes to Honor (#1 in the First Responders series)

“Lynda Lee Schab is a new, fresh addition to Christian fiction, combining her own distinctive author voice with humor and thought-provoking storytelling. I laughed right out loud in places and experienced the ministry of the Holy Spirit in others. I’m eager to see what’s next from Lynda Lee Schab.” - Sandra D. Bricker, best-selling and award-winning author of Always the Baker, Never the Bride, the first in a four-book series

“A fast, fun read in the tradition of classic chick lit. Madison ‘Madi’ McCall lives in an ordinary world, yet dreams of being a fairy-tale princess. In her quest to find her inner princess, Madi faces her responsibilities and the stresses that crowd her life. Along the way she overcomes challenges, learns to accept God’s grace, and grows her faith.” - Megan DiMaria, author of Searching for Spice and Out of Her Hands

“With a smart, snappy style, Lynda Lee Schab delivers an entertaining tale. Be prepared for chuckles aplenty as Madi learns a hard-won lesson about trust.” - Virginia Smith, author of Third Time’s a Charm and the Sister-to-Sister Series

“An engaging story of the proverbial ostrich with her head stuck in the sand. And who hasn’t been there a time or two? With doses of humor, gentle insights, and an eclectic supporting cast, Schab had me rooting for heroine Madi to learn the truth that would ultimately set her free. A fast-paced, highly enjoyable story.” - Julie Carobini, author of Fade to Blue

I'm Dreaming of a WRITE Christmas

2011-12-07T08:32:00.000-05:00

So the Christmas season is here and it's awesome. Love the decorating, the shopping, the lights, the music, the giving, the whole wonder of it all, centering around, of course, the birth of our Savior.

But there is one aspect of the season I don't particularly care for. And that is the lack of time I have to write. Basically, everything I love about Christmas takes away from my other love: writing. This lack of time is frustrating, and can get downright annoying. All I want for Christmas is the chance to plop my butt in the chair and type. And type. And type.

But, my type, type, type is replaced by the hype, hype, hype of the holidays. Especially this year, with my recent book release and being co-writer and volunteer for our church's Christmas production, How Christmas Saved the Grinch, and working a couple days a week in an outside job I started back in April.

Sigh...

But it's all good. I am extremely grateful to have a novel published and to be a part of my church's awesome drama ministry. I'm thankful for the extra income from my outside job. And I try to remind myself that the baking, shopping, wrapping, planning, decorating, and party-going will only last a few short weeks and then it will be back to a routine and productivity- and on track to meet the Spring deadline for my next novel. And when I start to get whiny, I try to remember the reason for it all and readjust my focus.

So that brings me to a question for you. How do you find time to write during the busy Christmas season? I'd love to hear your tips and tricks for adding words to your manuscript while still accomplishing everything you need to do.

In the meantime, I'll be working. And shopping. And wrapping. And decorating. And baking...

Holiday Spotlight on: The Polar Bear Plunge by Linda Glaz

2011-12-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a book you'll want to check out for the holidays. I've heard wonderful things about it and plan on downloading a copy to my Kindle today. And...bonus! It's only .99 cents during the whole month of December! Wow!

Striving to put meaning back into her life after her husband’s death, Aleni Callan immerses herself in hospital work. Angry with God, she finds herself even angrier, when hero, Brice Taylor, author of The Human Shield, arrives in the Emergency Room with a concussion and hypothermia after participating in the Polar Bear Plunge. Aleni wants nothing to do with a man who willingly takes chances with his life.

Brice doesn’t understood how God could bring him through being a captive in Iraq, when he failed his troops so miserably. Writing about his escape brings fame he would rather avoid. And by meeting widow, Aleni Callan, his feelings of failure only increase.

Megan Callan with the help of her three-year-old grandson, Ty, scheme to bring Aleni and Brice together. And while the best laid plans often go awry, Megan isn’t one to accept no.

ORDER ON AMAZON.COM (for 99 cents!)

Linda says: I’m a wife and mother of three. I balance being a child of God while also being older than God. Hmmm, scary, but almost true. I’ve been blessed to have had an amazing life so far: Air Force meteorologist during Vietnam era, teaching karate and self-defense along with soccer for 25+ years. I sing and direct in church and community theatre musicals where this little old lady sounds more like the guys than the gals. Also scary, but true. I work in a physical therapy clinic three days a week to earn money to keep my writing afloat. My writing life is a 24/7 proposition. When not writing my own stories, I am an agent for Hartline Literary Agency. I wear so many different hats I’m surprised I wasn’t invited to the Royal wedding. Blessings to everyone, may your writing dreams all come true.

Visit Linda online at: http://www.lindaglaz.blogspot.com

Gratitude Giveaway Winner

2011-12-02T05:58:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all of you who stopped by and entered my Faithful and Fabulous Follower Gratitude Giveaway! This morning, bright and early, I entered all of your names in the order of comments left in an online random name picker. And the Picker chose.....

DEE!

Congrats, Dee! Your $20 Amazon gift card will be delivered to your inbox very soon! Thanks for being a faithful and fabulous follower!

WISHING YOU ALL A WONDERFUL WEEKEND!

An Ornamental Christmas

2011-11-30T07:00:00.005-05:00

**Only 2 days left to enter my fabulous Faithful Followers Giveaway! Win a $20 gift card or prize of your choice! Enter HERE)**

My favorite part of decking the halls is trimming the tree. Opening the box of ornaments and oohing and ahhing and laughing as we hang them on the tree. Each one holds a special place in our hearts. At least, in my daughter's and mine. The guys seem to care less.

Every Christmas my husband and I buy the kids a special ornament depicting some event from the past year. When my son was into collecting dog figurines, he got a dog ornament. When my daughter did cheer, she received a cheerleader ornament. One year my son got an ornament that said, "Oldest Child...Mom's favorite" and my daughter got one that said, "Youngest Child...Mom's favorite." Here are a few of the other ornaments that have been added to their collection over the years:

The skateboarding phase

Zach played tennis for 4 years

Lyndsey finally got that iPod she'd been begging for!

The year Lyndsey got glasses. She's already moved on to contacts.

Last year (way back on the 2nd of January, 2010), my son turned 16. He officially got his drivers license a few months later. My daughter was in 8th grade. She was on the volleyball team and played the drums, but she'd already been given a volleyball and drum ornament in past years, so I had to come up with something different. Then I thought of something absolutely perfect for her. Below, is a picture of the ornaments my kids received last year.

I'll probably order their 2011 ornaments sometime this week. I have ideas for both kids and can't wait to shop around and see what I can find. (by the way, eBay has tons of ornament stores with endless options!)

Our Christmas tree is very eclectic. I think themed trees are beautiful, but not nearly as much fun as a tree decorated with ornaments that tell a story. And as we hang our ornaments every year, we enjoy looking back at each of the "seasons" the kids have passed through so far. And these memories never fail to bring smiles to our faces and warmth to our hearts. Maybe a little bit of sorrow, too, knowing that there probably will never be another "skateboarding" or "ballet" season. But definitely happiness that there will never be another "braces" season! (At least for my son. Daughter just got hers this year).

So what about you? What event or milestone would be on your (or your child's) ornament this year?

The Home Stretch...

2011-11-28T07:00:00.006-05:00

There are just a few official stops left on my Mind over Madi blog tour. Inserting my thanks here to all of you who have been following along and offering your support. AND THANKS to all of the tour participants who have interviewed, reviewed, posted blurbs and helped spread the word about my book! As I've said before, this marketing and promotion thing is not necessarily my favorite part of the job (although the interview questions have been fun!) but it's SO necessary. And I couldn't do it without YOU!

There will be posts here and there by friends who didn't commit to a particular date but said they would feature an interview or review in December sometime, so watch for those. If you'd like to help, read THIS POST and if you need the media kit, I'd be happy to send it along.

For now, here are the final stops on the tour. Hope you get a chance to stop by. And, even more, I hope you click on over to Amazon.com or pop into to your local bookstore and order a copy of my book. If you do, there may be something in it for you! Check out THIS POST to see what I'm talking about.

Monday, November 28

SARAH FORGRAVE'S BLOG

Tuesday, November 29 - Joy Avery Melville's blog

JOURNEYS TO JOY

Wednesday, November 30th
CATHERINE WEST'S BLOG

Thursday, December 1st - Cheryl Linn Martin's blog

LIFE IN FLIP-FLOPS

Friday, December 2nd- Joanne Sher's blog

AN OPEN BOOK

Saturday, December 3rd - Angie Breidenbach's blog

GOD USES BROKEN VESSELS

THANKS AGAIN FOR JOINING ME ON MY BLOG TOUR!

HAPPY READING!

Annual Faithful Followers Friday Giveaway!

2011-11-25T07:18:00.002-05:00

It's here again! My annual Black Friday Follower Giveaway! Once again, I'm dubbing it the FAITHFUL AND FABULOUS FOLLOWER GRATITUDE GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY! (I challenge you to say that 10 times, fast!). I am SO grateful for every one of you and I love doing something extra special as the holiday season officially kicks off.

(By the way, speaking of special giveaways, there is one going on right now for my book, Mind over Madi. I'm giving away a signed copy over at the FaithWriters blog. Winner will be announced on November 30, so there's still plenty of time to enter! Click HERE right now to enter, then come back and enter this contest!)

You're back? Cool. Let's get down to business.

I'm offering you a chance to win a great prize, just for being a follower of my blog! (I really do appreciate you all!)

Here's the scoop:

Below, I've listed 7 prize options. All you need to do is leave a comment on this post telling me which one you would choose. IF your name is selected, of course. ONLY CHOOSE ONE PRIZE.

BONUS ENTRIES: Buy my book, Mind over Madi, from Amazon.com via the link in the left sidebar at any time during this contest. Let me know you've ordered a copy and I will give you five (5) additional entries to increase your chances of winning! Receive five (5) bonus entries for EACH copy you buy. Hint: Mind over Madi would make a wonderful Christmas gift!

The winner will be announced NEXT FRIDAY, December 2nd.

PRIZES (choose one)

$20 Amazon gift card
Christian Writer's Market Guide 2012 ($24 value)
$20 Christian Book Distributors.com gift card
$20 eBay gift card
$20 Barnes and Noble.com gift card
$20 FamilyChristian.com gift card
Mystery book pack. Includes FIVE Christian books by fabulous Christian authors! (Value over $50)

RULES SCHMULES

* You MUST be a follower to be eligible. If you're not yet a follower, no problem! Just click on "Follow" (over there to the right) and you'll be automatically qualified. Then leave your comment.

*You MUST tell me which ONE PRIZE you would choose. None mentioned? More than one mentioned? No entry.

*You MUST leave a valid email address so I can contact you if you're the winner. No email? No win.

*You MUST let me know you've purchased a copy of Mind over Madi (or two or twenty) in order to receive BONUS entries. We're going on good faith, here.

Winner will be selected at random using RandomLinePicker, from all entries received. The prize will be sent electronically after the winner is announced. Gift card will be sent electronically. Deadline to enter: 5:00 AM on Friday, December 2 (Hey, I get up early and plan to do the drawing first thing in the morning).

Let me just say again how much I truly appreciate you for reading my blog. I wish I could send every one of you a gift card (but my husband would kill me).

OK. That's it! Go ahead and leave your comment.

Beyond Blessed

2011-11-24T07:00:00.019-05:00

I honestly don't think I've ever been as thankful as I am this year. As I look back on the past several months, my heart bursts with thanksgiving to God for all He's done for me. I am way beyond blessed. A few things on my thankful list:

1. My husband. I'll be real. My husband and I have probably experienced more ups and downs than the typical married couple. I won't go into details, but I'll just say that for the past 23 years, we've put in a lot of work to make it work. But this past year he's shown me how hard he wants to fight for us. And for that, I am truly grateful. I'm discovering a new love for my husband. God is still in the heart-changing business!

2. My kids. Okay, so some days I'm not so thankful for my kids. Particularly when they are copping an attitude (which, with teenagers is pretty much every day). But Zach and Lyndsey make me laugh, keep me grounded, and have allowed me to feel a level of love I never knew I was capable of experiencing. They make me a better person. At least during the times I'm not yelling at them.

3. My friends. I can hardly believe how many wonderful people God has brought into my life over the past few years. This year, especially, I have met some of the most precious women ever. Friends who have encouraged me, supported me, and challenged me as a writer, a Christian, and a woman.

4. My church. I am so blessed to be a part of a church that's alive and growing! A church whose focus is on touching others and changing lives. This year, I had the opportunity to co-write the grand Christmas production, How Christmas Saved the Grinch, which will take place on December 10 and 11. My co-writer (Diane Loew) and I started way back in February. It has been nothing short of amazing to see this project come to life. I can't wait to see what God will do!

5. Favor. I feel like I've been living under an umbrella of favor over the past year. Contests won, opportunities offered, and finally that book contract I've been waiting for! So thankful for every door God has opened (and closed) that has brought me to where I am today.

Today I am a guest blogger on my friend Julie Arduini's blog, The Surrendered Scribe. Join me as I talk about thankfulness for my writing journey.

Wishing you heaps of blessings this Thanksgiving!

Features and Interviews and Giveaways...Oh, My!

2011-11-23T07:37:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow I will be blogging about what I am thankful for this year. And Friday, watch for my annual Faithful Followers Friday giveaway. You won't want to miss it!

Today, I want to share a little of this and that.

WIN A COPY OF MIND OVER MADI - Over on the FAITHWRITERS BLOG, I am giving away a signed copy of my book, Mind over Madi. Simply leave a comment on the blog post and you will be automatically entered to win.

Check out the latest review of my book by friend and fellow writer, Julie Arduini. Julie has posted a review on her blog, THE SURRENDERED SCRIBE. I will be a guest blogger there tomorrow, so I hope you'll check in for that.

Something cool...I was featured in my local newspaper, The Grand Valley Advance. It's a great article, except for a typo about my book launch, which was last Saturday, not this Saturday. Oh - and that I wrote my church's Christmas production myself. I could not have done it without my friend and co-writer, Diane Loew (whose blog, Random Ramblings Of...is wonderful, by the way). Here's the link to my feature, if you'd like to check it out. JENISON WRITER REACHES NEXT STEP ON LADDER OF SUCCESS

Book Signing news...If you'll be in the Grand Rapids area on Black Friday, I will be signing books at Baker Book House, located on East Paris S.E. from 1-3 p.m. I'd love for you to stop by and say hi! EVENT ANNOUNCEMENT

Book Launch Success!

2011-11-22T07:00:00.008-05:00

WOW!

Awed, overwhelmed, and humbled doesn't begin to describe how I was feeling at 5:30 last Saturday evening when my book launch wrapped up. The number of people who showed up at Resurrection Life Church's bookstore, The Word Shop, to support me and celebrate the launch of Mind over Madi completely blew my mind. What an amazing group of friends and family I have!

A special shoutout to my fabulous friend, Diane Loew, who set up my displays and acted as my assistant the entire time, all while working in the bookstore, and taking photos, too.

I don't know what I would have done without her.

Diane made the cookies (she used to own a cookie company!) and I also had chocolate, coffee, and water on hand. Thanks to my thoughtful step-dad, Paulie, for making the water bottle labels for me. So cute!

My uncle Jim and Aunt Carol drove over 2 1/2 hours from Clio, Michigan, to celebrate with me. And they even brought flowers!

There were three giveaways - two $10 Word Shop gift cards and one giant gift basket, filled with items from Mind over Madi, worth over $100. Attached to each item was the blurb from the book corresponding with that particular gift.

And the basket went to...my friend, Nancy DiMatteo, standing at the book table, below.

About 70 people came to my launch and bought a total of almost 50 books! WOW!

Thanks again to everyone who came out and made my launch such a wonderful and memorable day.

I am beyond blessed.

Mind over Madi Blog Tour...Week 4

2011-11-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

Monday, November 21

LINDA GLAZ'S BLOG (interview)

Tuesday, November 22

FAITHWRITERS BLOG (interview and GIVEAWAY

Wednesday, November 23 - Julie Arduini's blog

THE SURRENDERED SCRIBE (Review)

Thursday, November 24 - Julie Arduini's blog

THE SURRENDERED SCRIBE (Guest post on Thankfulness)

Friday, November 25 - Val Comer's blog

LIVE SIMPLY, SIMPLY LOVE (Interview)

Saturday, November 26

HEIDI MAIN'S BLOG (Interview)

Sunday, November 27

LEIGH DELOZIER'S BLOG

If the Tiara Fits...featured on The Christian Post

2011-11-18T08:09:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone who has participated in my blog tour so far! There have been some wonderful reviews and interviews! And thank you to those of you who have purchased my book and have gone the extra mile to help spread the word.

Today I have the honor of being a guest blogger on The Christian Post, where OakTara has their blog, Bindings: Reflections on Faith, Life, and Good Books. My piece is titled, IF THE TIARA FITS. I'd love for you to click on over and check it out.

IF THE TIARA FITS

Here's a plus: Amazon has lowered the price of Mind over Madi, so if you are thinking about buying it, today would be a good day to do it! Click here to go directly to Amazon.com - Mind Over Madi

Wishing you all a fabulous, Princess-y Friday!

Help me Spread the Word about Mind over Madi

2011-11-16T06:53:00.001-05:00

Over the past month or two, I've had the not-so-fun-job of marketing and promoting myself. I've had an amazing number of people step up so far as influencers and to participate in my blog tour, which I SOOOOO appreciate. Now that my book is released (pause to cheer!), promoting is even more important. This is my least favorite part of being a writer, but it has to be done. So, yes, I'm asking for your help.

I'm going to list here a few ways you can help spread the word about my book. Anything you can do would be greatly appreciated!

To show how much it means to me, I am offering you NOVEL MORSELS for free! NOVEL MORSELS is an e-cookbook featuring 65 fiction authors who share recipes taken from their books. This is an awesome collaboration and I am honored to have one recipe included (Madi's Mean Mostaccioli). Simply go to Nicole O'Dell's website (she is the Super Woman who created the cookbook) and use the code: LYNDASCHAB. That's it! Easy-peasy. ENJOY!

And thanks in advance for anything you can do to help spread the word about MIND OVER MADI.

Here are some ways you can help:

1) Book Review - Book reviews are what influence people most, so I am always looking for positive reviews. Please review on one or more of the following sites:

1) Your blog
2) Amazon.com (USA)
3) Amazon.ca (Canada)
4) Amazon.uk (UK)
5) Barnes & Noble
6) www.christianbook.com
7) Books-A-Million
8) www.goodreads.com
9) www.shelfari.com

2) Author Interview–Send me a list of questions to answer for an interview on your blog. I'll need 3-4 days to complete and email back. I do have a set of canned Q & A's you are welcome to request, but these will be posted in several places over the next few months, so if you can think of fresh questions, that would be great!

3. General Blurb - Simply posting the back cover blurb, the cover, and my bio on your blog would be fine, too. Anything to get the word out!

Other Influencing Options

1) Share a link of your review, interview, or just a line or two about my book on Social Media sites like Facebook.

2) Suggest my Facebook page to your friends list.

3) Spread the news of my book through your local church, libraries, book clubs & writing groups.

4) Visit your local bookstore and request a copy of my book. When a book is requested, stores usually order an extra copy or two to keep on the shelf.

5) Purchase a copy of my book and pass it along to a friend or donate it to your local library.

6) If you're on Twitter, Tweet a couple of times about my novel. You can follow me on Twitter here: www.twitter.com/Lyndaschab

7) Tell your family and friends! Word of mouth is the most effective marketing tool!

If you can let me know how exactly you can help, and provide links to your post(s), I will also link to them from Facebook and Twitter. If you have any questions or other ideas, please let me know.

Thanks again for your help! I appreciate you more than you know.

Mind over Madi UNLEASHED!

2011-11-15T12:42:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I know the official term is "Book RELEASE," but Madi has been pulling on the leash for so long, anxious to get her story out there, that I feel "Book UNLEASH" is more appropriate. Now Madi is free to share her story with the world. And as her author, I couldn't be more thrilled for this moment!

What a journey it's been so far. And I look forward to everything God has in store for me as a novelist.

So today is the day. Mind over Madi is now available for purchase. Check out the photo above that my fabulous friend, Diane Loew sent me this morning. She works at our church's bookstore, The Word Shop, where my book launch will be held on Saturday. My very first book display! Is that cool, or what? She also took a picture of my book on the "New Release" shelf, posted below.

If you'd like to purchase my book, or find out more about it, you can click this link: Mind Over Madi or the Amazon link in the left sidebar. Copies are also available through BARNESandNOBLE.COM.

You can also visit your local bookstore and they should be able to order a copy for you if they don't have it in stock, as it is set up in the database with Ingram, the largest wholesale book distributor in the world.

OK...NOW...on to the winner of the giveaway for a signed copy of my book. Thanks to all of you for your comments, congrats, and encouragement. All names were entered into an online name picker and one name was selected at random.

And the winner is...

LINDA GLAZ!

Yay, Linda! Happy reading to you!

Don't forget, next Friday I'll be doing my annual Faithful Followers giveaway for my...well, my faithful followers! All 335 of you! You won't want to miss it.

In the meantime, today is a great day to try out a new fiction author, don't you think? I've heard that a wonderful new book just hit the market.

Mind over Madi Blog Tour...Week 3

2011-11-14T13:41:00.004-05:00

Monday, November 14 - Lisa Mikitarian's blog,

CONNECTING NOW (conundrum)

Tuesday, November 15 - Amy Wiley's blog,

SPARROW'S FLIGHT (review)
and

Patricia Woodside's blog,
READIN AND WRITIN WITH PATRICIA

Wednesday, November 16

JILL KEMERER'S BLOG (Interview)

Thursday, November 17 - Patty Wysong's blog,

ORDINARY LIVES (interview)

Friday, November 18

JESSICA R. PATCH'S BLOG (interview)

Saturday, November 19 - Diane Loew's blog,

RANDOM RAMBLINGS OF...(interview)

Sunday, November 20 - Nicole O'Dell's blog,

CHOOSE NOW (review)