Portrait of Writing, Carnival of Christian Writers
I'm excited to announce a new feature here at Writer...Interrupted. It's the Carnival of Christian Writers. We will be hosting the carnival here once a month on the last Monday of the month. Please read the guidelines below and submit your entries!!
Guidelines:
Your post must be related to writing.
Please check out the writing guidelines on the sidebar.
The deadline is the LAST Saturday of each month.
Please write a one to two sentence blurb about your post including your name with the link to your blog and a link to your actual post you're submitting to the carnival. Email it to me at Portraitwriter@gmail.com
Please put a link to this blog in your post somewhere. We do not have a button at this time, but hope to in the future.
One more thing, spread the word!
Any questions? Email me.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Humble
Portrait of Faith, Writing, Letting Go
Moses was very meek, above all men on face of the earth, Numbers 12:3
Jesus said, "I am meek and lowly in heart." Matthew 11:29,30
Who wouldn't want to be among them? But I tend to be more like Peter, Thomas and yes, Judas, though it pains me to admit it.
At ACFW I was humbled in spirit and brought back to a place of complete reliance on God. I saw the humble exhalted in a beautiful way, recieving awards when they never imagined they would win. At first it was painful to not be among them, but then I let it go. I didn't question why not me, instead I chose to believe God has me on a different but wonderful journey.
Proverb 29:23 "A man’s pride will bring him low, But the humble in spirit will retain honor."Humble is not a word I'd use to describe myself. Confident, insecure, teachable, stubborn, though contradictary at times, they better describe the real me. I admire the humble in spirit. Many great men of the Bible were humble and meek.
Moses was very meek, above all men on face of the earth, Numbers 12:3
Jesus said, "I am meek and lowly in heart." Matthew 11:29,30
Who wouldn't want to be among them? But I tend to be more like Peter, Thomas and yes, Judas, though it pains me to admit it.
Peter, the passionate one, often took action before he spoke. Most times, when he did speak, his words got him in trouble. Thomas lacked the faith to believe in things he couldn't see, and Judas questioned the actions of Jesus especially when it came to finances and his future.I'm not all that different from them. Like Peter, I let my emotions rule my actions. Just as Thomas doubted, I too fall into disbelief that God's promises will come to pass. And like Judas, I question Jesus' plan for my life. I ofen think I know what's best for me and forget to consult the One who created me. I forge ahead, strong willed like Peter and forget the One I should be loyal too, just like Judas.
At ACFW I was humbled in spirit and brought back to a place of complete reliance on God. I saw the humble exhalted in a beautiful way, recieving awards when they never imagined they would win. At first it was painful to not be among them, but then I let it go. I didn't question why not me, instead I chose to believe God has me on a different but wonderful journey.
I'm tired of being humbled. I want to be humble. But to be humble I think you have to be humbled first. You have to come to a place where after all of your striving you realize you can't do it on your own. God has to bring you to a place of complete surrender to His will, whether you understand His will or not.I think I'm on my way. I hope that doesn't sound prideful. But God reminded me at ACFW this year that He is in control of my life and my career and though I may not always understand or like the journey He has me on, it's still the best path for me. And that brought me to a place of peace. But I'll leave that for another day!
More With Mary DeMuth
Portrait of Writing Moms, Writing
Tell us a little about your family and homeschool?
I have three children: Sophie (13), Aidan (10), and Julia (8). We currently don’t homeschool; however I did homeschool Sophie for kindergarten and first grade because, at that time, I didn’t feel comfortable with the school system.
How long have you been writing and what do you write?
I’ve been writing for 14 years. I started off as a newsletter designer and editor, then branched off into writing articles for magazines. Eventually I became a newspaper columnist. Four years ago, when Julia was in preschool, I got serious about my writing, wrote a book, went to my first major writing conference, and met my agent.
Tell us a little about your latest projects.
Ordinary Mom, Extraordinary God released in 2005 with Harvest House Publishers. It’s a 60-day devotional for moms. I’ve heard it’s been featured at homeschool conventions. I wanted to write a devotional for thinking moms. I personally grew tired of fluffy writing for women.
Building the Christian Family You Never Had released January 2006 with WaterBrook Publishers. This is a book for those of us who don’t want to duplicate the homes we were raised in. It was a painfully hard book to write because I tell the story of my upbringing in it. The hero of the book is Jesus, who stooped low to rescue me, and set my feet upon a better foundation. By God’s grace, I am parenting differently than how I was parented.
Watching the Tree Limbs released March 2006 with NavPress. This is a novel about a young abandoned girl whose life spins out of control, and the long redemptive hand of God. Its sequel Wishing on Dandelions releases in September
Living abroad has to have its challenges. What are you doing all the way in France and how do you cope with raising kids in a foreign country?
It’s very hard. We put our children in French schools—a really hard decision. Homeschooling here has not been an option. We are trying to be legitimate to the French government as we plant a church. Homeschooling makes officials think we are in a cult. The kids cried a lot the first year (we’ve been here two years), but now that they are fluent and have made friends, it’s been worth the struggle. Just this year, my eldest led her avowed Atheistic friend to Jesus. And another girl is getting close. It’s been tremendous to watch.
Raising children in America is tough enough. How do you encourage yourself during those stormy days , especially in a foreign country?
Pray. Talk to good friends. Set limits on activities. Don’t overextend.
I’m still awed at how moms find the time to write really good books. In your life how do you balance it all?
It’s certainly not easy. When my kids were young, I wrote around their schedules, but I didn’t produce much. I spent a lot of time writing in obscurity, which, in the long run, has really enhanced my writing today. In those ten years of writing before publication, I honed my voice, made lots of mistakes, and also gained confidence. Now? I have a writing schedule. I write when my children are in school and try very hard (though at times, when I’m under deadline, I fail) to quit when they come home.
Is it even possible to give yourself fully to raising children, writing and keeping in shape, or do some things have to be neglected at times?
Of course, life is a crazy balance. One book that’s been particularly helpful to me is The Power of Full Engagement by Loehr and Schwartz. They speak about managing energy rather than time. It really helped me to understand the importance of rest, rhythm and taking time to refuel. Keeping in shape has really helped me cope with the loads of stress we have here in France (church planting, child rearing, writing full time, coping with the language and cultural differences). When I run in the mornings, I hear God’s voice.
Do you ever feel like you’re neglecting your children when you write?
Sure, there are times I feel that way. Sometimes that means I stop. Sometimes that means I explain. I have a life coach who helps me stay accountable to my schedule, particularly to my children, and I’ve given close friends and my husband permission to tell me when I’ve gotten too busy. One good thing, though, is that my children are my biggest cheerleaders. They celebrated when I landed an agent. They screamed when I got my first contract. They jumped up and down when my first book arrived in the mail. It’s been such a fun adventure, having them alongside me.
If you do feel your priorities slipping, what do you do to get back on track?
Pray. Repent. Reorganize. If necessary, ask forgiveness.
If you could do this parenting, writing thing all over again, what would you do differently?
I don’t know. I’m pretty thankful for my dear family who have supported me so well in this crazy dream of mine. The calling God has placed on my life is very strong (of course it takes second place to following Jesus and being a good wife and mother). I really feel these past few years have been guided by Jesus.
Has there ever been a time God told you to set aside your writing to focus on other areas of your life? If so, how did you handle that?
I’m taking a break this summer to regroup and refresh. I’m happy to do that. Though, I must say, I am happier when I write. I feel God’s smile when I do.
Did you ever feel like you’ve “missed” God in regards to writing, that maybe you should be doing something else? Removed homeschooling so I could answer
No. I am confident God has called me to do this.
How do you know when you’re in God’s will?
I have His peace. I have heard from many good, godly folks who have confirmed this calling on my life. I give others permission (particularly my prayer team) to let me know if I’ve strayed. Being a missionary to France is hard. Writing is hard. Being a mom is hard. But I know God has called me to do all three.
How do you position yourself to HEAR God’s voice when all the noises of life are swirling around you?
I get quiet. I hear Him when I run in the hills of Southern France (it’s surprisingly quiet here). I no longer watch much TV, so my day is quieter.
When do you find the time to write, and how do you handle interruptions in your writing life?
I have a writing schedule. I’ve learned to be kind when I’m interrupted and to gauge whether the interruption merits my attention or if it can be dealt with later.
How do you get back into the flow of writing after you’ve been interrupted?
Take a deep breath and go forward.
Tell me about how you got your first writing break.
I suppose it was meeting my agent at a writer’s conference. You can’t really sell a book to a publisher without an agent. When I went to the writer’s conference, I didn’t even know I needed an agent. So I didn’t really pursue one. But a few weeks after the conference, an agent from the premier Christian literary agencies in the states emailed me and said he wanted to agent me. Wow. I screamed. My kids hollered. My husband celebrated. From that point on, I’ve been writing books that have been published. I chalk it up to God’s sovereign hand.
What do you hope to accomplish through your novels?
When someone puts one of my novels down, I want them to long for more of Jesus and His healing redemption in their lives.
What advice would you give to writing moms?
Keep at it. Write when you can. Don’t despise laboring in obscurity. It’s a time for you to hone your voice, to learn the craft of writing.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Pray for our family as we plant a church in Southern France. It’s a difficult place to plant a church and there’s a lot of spiritual warfare.
Thank you so much for stopping by! May God bless you as you write, raise your children and pursue His calling in your life.
For more from this author visit
www.relevantblog.blogspot.com
www.pioneerparenting.blogspot.com
www.relevantprose.com
Tell us a little about your family and homeschool?I have three children: Sophie (13), Aidan (10), and Julia (8). We currently don’t homeschool; however I did homeschool Sophie for kindergarten and first grade because, at that time, I didn’t feel comfortable with the school system.
How long have you been writing and what do you write?
I’ve been writing for 14 years. I started off as a newsletter designer and editor, then branched off into writing articles for magazines. Eventually I became a newspaper columnist. Four years ago, when Julia was in preschool, I got serious about my writing, wrote a book, went to my first major writing conference, and met my agent.
Tell us a little about your latest projects.
Ordinary Mom, Extraordinary God released in 2005 with Harvest House Publishers. It’s a 60-day devotional for moms. I’ve heard it’s been featured at homeschool conventions. I wanted to write a devotional for thinking moms. I personally grew tired of fluffy writing for women.
Building the Christian Family You Never Had released January 2006 with WaterBrook Publishers. This is a book for those of us who don’t want to duplicate the homes we were raised in. It was a painfully hard book to write because I tell the story of my upbringing in it. The hero of the book is Jesus, who stooped low to rescue me, and set my feet upon a better foundation. By God’s grace, I am parenting differently than how I was parented.
Watching the Tree Limbs released March 2006 with NavPress. This is a novel about a young abandoned girl whose life spins out of control, and the long redemptive hand of God. Its sequel Wishing on Dandelions releases in September
Living abroad has to have its challenges. What are you doing all the way in France and how do you cope with raising kids in a foreign country?
It’s very hard. We put our children in French schools—a really hard decision. Homeschooling here has not been an option. We are trying to be legitimate to the French government as we plant a church. Homeschooling makes officials think we are in a cult. The kids cried a lot the first year (we’ve been here two years), but now that they are fluent and have made friends, it’s been worth the struggle. Just this year, my eldest led her avowed Atheistic friend to Jesus. And another girl is getting close. It’s been tremendous to watch.
Raising children in America is tough enough. How do you encourage yourself during those stormy days , especially in a foreign country?
Pray. Talk to good friends. Set limits on activities. Don’t overextend.
I’m still awed at how moms find the time to write really good books. In your life how do you balance it all?
It’s certainly not easy. When my kids were young, I wrote around their schedules, but I didn’t produce much. I spent a lot of time writing in obscurity, which, in the long run, has really enhanced my writing today. In those ten years of writing before publication, I honed my voice, made lots of mistakes, and also gained confidence. Now? I have a writing schedule. I write when my children are in school and try very hard (though at times, when I’m under deadline, I fail) to quit when they come home.
Is it even possible to give yourself fully to raising children, writing and keeping in shape, or do some things have to be neglected at times?
Of course, life is a crazy balance. One book that’s been particularly helpful to me is The Power of Full Engagement by Loehr and Schwartz. They speak about managing energy rather than time. It really helped me to understand the importance of rest, rhythm and taking time to refuel. Keeping in shape has really helped me cope with the loads of stress we have here in France (church planting, child rearing, writing full time, coping with the language and cultural differences). When I run in the mornings, I hear God’s voice.
Do you ever feel like you’re neglecting your children when you write?
Sure, there are times I feel that way. Sometimes that means I stop. Sometimes that means I explain. I have a life coach who helps me stay accountable to my schedule, particularly to my children, and I’ve given close friends and my husband permission to tell me when I’ve gotten too busy. One good thing, though, is that my children are my biggest cheerleaders. They celebrated when I landed an agent. They screamed when I got my first contract. They jumped up and down when my first book arrived in the mail. It’s been such a fun adventure, having them alongside me.
If you do feel your priorities slipping, what do you do to get back on track?
Pray. Repent. Reorganize. If necessary, ask forgiveness.
If you could do this parenting, writing thing all over again, what would you do differently?
I don’t know. I’m pretty thankful for my dear family who have supported me so well in this crazy dream of mine. The calling God has placed on my life is very strong (of course it takes second place to following Jesus and being a good wife and mother). I really feel these past few years have been guided by Jesus.
Has there ever been a time God told you to set aside your writing to focus on other areas of your life? If so, how did you handle that?
I’m taking a break this summer to regroup and refresh. I’m happy to do that. Though, I must say, I am happier when I write. I feel God’s smile when I do.
Did you ever feel like you’ve “missed” God in regards to writing, that maybe you should be doing something else? Removed homeschooling so I could answer
No. I am confident God has called me to do this.
How do you know when you’re in God’s will?
I have His peace. I have heard from many good, godly folks who have confirmed this calling on my life. I give others permission (particularly my prayer team) to let me know if I’ve strayed. Being a missionary to France is hard. Writing is hard. Being a mom is hard. But I know God has called me to do all three.
How do you position yourself to HEAR God’s voice when all the noises of life are swirling around you?
I get quiet. I hear Him when I run in the hills of Southern France (it’s surprisingly quiet here). I no longer watch much TV, so my day is quieter.
When do you find the time to write, and how do you handle interruptions in your writing life?
I have a writing schedule. I’ve learned to be kind when I’m interrupted and to gauge whether the interruption merits my attention or if it can be dealt with later.
How do you get back into the flow of writing after you’ve been interrupted?
Take a deep breath and go forward.
Tell me about how you got your first writing break.
I suppose it was meeting my agent at a writer’s conference. You can’t really sell a book to a publisher without an agent. When I went to the writer’s conference, I didn’t even know I needed an agent. So I didn’t really pursue one. But a few weeks after the conference, an agent from the premier Christian literary agencies in the states emailed me and said he wanted to agent me. Wow. I screamed. My kids hollered. My husband celebrated. From that point on, I’ve been writing books that have been published. I chalk it up to God’s sovereign hand.
What do you hope to accomplish through your novels?
When someone puts one of my novels down, I want them to long for more of Jesus and His healing redemption in their lives.
What advice would you give to writing moms?
Keep at it. Write when you can. Don’t despise laboring in obscurity. It’s a time for you to hone your voice, to learn the craft of writing.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Pray for our family as we plant a church in Southern France. It’s a difficult place to plant a church and there’s a lot of spiritual warfare.
Thank you so much for stopping by! May God bless you as you write, raise your children and pursue His calling in your life.
For more from this author visit
www.relevantblog.blogspot.com
www.pioneerparenting.blogspot.com
www.relevantprose.com
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Pride! Can You Relate?
Portrait of Faith, Writing, Letting Go
Thankfully, I did not find this type of pride at ACFW Dallas. Instead I found multi-published authors hanging with the newbies. I witnessed incredible ministry in the name of Jesus and not for personal glory. I experienced first hand the genuineness of real people, encouraging each other. If there had been no name tags, I wouldn't have been able to tell who the published authors were.
Confession time. I've suffered from this kind of pride for years without even knowing it. At the ACFW conference God revealed this to my heart. I'd been very confident of my writing ability, knowing that one day I would get published. Since a young age, I've always known I wanted to be a writer. So naturally I pursued writing in college earning a degree in telecommunications and journalism.
Technically, I've been published since I was fifteen when I wrote for the town paper, but I didn't start pursuing fiction until 1992, when God gave me a story. Well, after I had children that story sat for years. When I felt it was time to pick it up again, I ran with it. I finished that book and thought I had a great story. Then I realized writing a novel had all these rules. POV? Head hopping? Passive verbs? Attributions? I did them all, but I learned all the while reading books and believing I could write like "them."
I was taken back by my own pride which in essence had replaced that quiet confidence I believed came from God and the gift he gave me. I became so worried about learning my craft and getting it right that I lost my voice and God's vision for my writing.
So here I am, back where I belong. Still hopeful, but humbled. Still confident, but cautious. Still driven, but I'm not at the wheel any longer. I've given it back to the Lord, knowing He knows the best path for me to take in my writing journey, even though it may not be the quickest.
For more from a Gina on pride visit here.
1 John 2:16, 17 "For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever."Pride comes in many forms. Some pride is obnoxiously overt. It's the kind that lifts its nose to newbie writers and doesn't dare extend a helpful, loving hand.
Thankfully, I did not find this type of pride at ACFW Dallas. Instead I found multi-published authors hanging with the newbies. I witnessed incredible ministry in the name of Jesus and not for personal glory. I experienced first hand the genuineness of real people, encouraging each other. If there had been no name tags, I wouldn't have been able to tell who the published authors were.
Then there's the subtle pride. The kind that says "Oh, I can do that!" The kind of pride that is sometimes mistaken for confidence.
Confession time. I've suffered from this kind of pride for years without even knowing it. At the ACFW conference God revealed this to my heart. I'd been very confident of my writing ability, knowing that one day I would get published. Since a young age, I've always known I wanted to be a writer. So naturally I pursued writing in college earning a degree in telecommunications and journalism.
Technically, I've been published since I was fifteen when I wrote for the town paper, but I didn't start pursuing fiction until 1992, when God gave me a story. Well, after I had children that story sat for years. When I felt it was time to pick it up again, I ran with it. I finished that book and thought I had a great story. Then I realized writing a novel had all these rules. POV? Head hopping? Passive verbs? Attributions? I did them all, but I learned all the while reading books and believing I could write like "them."
The pattern continued. I believed. I wrote. I learned. I got rejected. I realized how much I didn't know. I studied. I learned some more. On and on this went for a couple of years, all the time I still believed I could write like "them." But somewhere at ACFW this year my confidence faded, crumbling into a heap of self doubt. That's when I saw my pride.
I was taken back by my own pride which in essence had replaced that quiet confidence I believed came from God and the gift he gave me. I became so worried about learning my craft and getting it right that I lost my voice and God's vision for my writing.
So here I am, back where I belong. Still hopeful, but humbled. Still confident, but cautious. Still driven, but I'm not at the wheel any longer. I've given it back to the Lord, knowing He knows the best path for me to take in my writing journey, even though it may not be the quickest.
For more from a Gina on pride visit here.
Mary DeMuth on Publishing
Portrait of Writing, Publishing, Letting Go
Reprinted with permission
Gina and Mary at ACFW
Someone I respect in the publishing business recently made this statement: Publishing doesn't validate your life. How true.
I have to admit before I was published, I thought that if I reached that nirvana called "published author," I'd have sweet validation. Every day would be smiles and dancing. You know what? I was wrong. Being published is terrific, mind you, but it doesn't bring happiness or validation. Instead, it adds more stress to your life.
Gone are the days when I could write for the sheer joy of it. Always looming is a deadline. And though I pinch myself because I "get" to write, and I feel like I'm doing what I was created to do, I sometimes get lost in the cycle of publicity, sales and marketing.
Maybe I'm the only one (and I'm embarrassed to admit this publicly), but I check my Amazon ratings for the three books I have in print. I know, know, know that these ratings mean very little. I know that a high rank (which is bad) just means that during that hour the book didn't sell. I know that if a band of readers (like a book club) went together and bought ten of my books in one hour, my rating would shoot lower (which is good). But it doesn't mean anything.
Why do I pester myself with such nonsense? After all, publishing doesn't validate my life, right?
It's like this weird endless cycle of neediness. It evolves in incremental steps of if onlys:
1. If only I could be published in a magazine, even if I'm not paid.
2. If only I could be paid to be published in a magazine.
3. If only I could go to a writer's conference and have an agent show an interest in my proposal.
4. If only I could sign with an agent.
5. If only that agent could sell my work.
6. If only I could have more than one contract.
7. If only I could earn out the advance for the book I wrote.
8. If only I could sell enough books so a publisher would want another book from me.
9. If only a publisher would treat a midlist author like me kindly.
10. If only I could make a living at writing.
That's a lot of if onlys!
I remember reading about blocked goals once and it's stuck with me. A blocked goal is a goal that is dependent on other's actions or happenstance. All these if onlys fit, albeit somewhat awkwardly, as blocked goals. I don't have any control over whether I'll get a contract offered. I can't make people buy my books. I can't make my book sell enough to earn back an advance. I can't control the fickleness of this industry.
What I can do is create goals that can't be blocked. Goals like:
1. I will listen to the heartbeat of God and write what He inspires me to write.
2. I will not let writing, by God's strength, overshadow the needs of my family.
3. I will write the best books I can write, always seeking to improve, abounding in humility and teachability.
4. I will be patient when sales wane and trust God's sovereignty.
5. I will promote my books with this motivation: to see the kingdom of God advanced.
6. I will laugh at the unpredictability of this industry and strive to be lighthearted.
7. I will serve others and not let elusive and fleeting fame (if that happens) inflate my head.
8. I will attend conferences, read writing books, and welcome critique.
9. I will serve my readers by praying for them and answering emails when God provides time.
10. I will write for the sheer joy of it, not despising unpublished words.
So, yeah, publishing does not validate me. Sure it feels great to hold my book in my hands. It's lovely when I get a good review. But it's the hand of God on my life that brings me ultimate validation. That God stooped to earth and chose me, a frail, needy girl, stops my heart every time. And by His grace, I will carry on.
Reprinted with permission
Gina and Mary at ACFW
Someone I respect in the publishing business recently made this statement: Publishing doesn't validate your life. How true.
I have to admit before I was published, I thought that if I reached that nirvana called "published author," I'd have sweet validation. Every day would be smiles and dancing. You know what? I was wrong. Being published is terrific, mind you, but it doesn't bring happiness or validation. Instead, it adds more stress to your life.
Gone are the days when I could write for the sheer joy of it. Always looming is a deadline. And though I pinch myself because I "get" to write, and I feel like I'm doing what I was created to do, I sometimes get lost in the cycle of publicity, sales and marketing.
Maybe I'm the only one (and I'm embarrassed to admit this publicly), but I check my Amazon ratings for the three books I have in print. I know, know, know that these ratings mean very little. I know that a high rank (which is bad) just means that during that hour the book didn't sell. I know that if a band of readers (like a book club) went together and bought ten of my books in one hour, my rating would shoot lower (which is good). But it doesn't mean anything.
Why do I pester myself with such nonsense? After all, publishing doesn't validate my life, right?
It's like this weird endless cycle of neediness. It evolves in incremental steps of if onlys:
1. If only I could be published in a magazine, even if I'm not paid.
2. If only I could be paid to be published in a magazine.
3. If only I could go to a writer's conference and have an agent show an interest in my proposal.
4. If only I could sign with an agent.
5. If only that agent could sell my work.
6. If only I could have more than one contract.
7. If only I could earn out the advance for the book I wrote.
8. If only I could sell enough books so a publisher would want another book from me.
9. If only a publisher would treat a midlist author like me kindly.
10. If only I could make a living at writing.
That's a lot of if onlys!
I remember reading about blocked goals once and it's stuck with me. A blocked goal is a goal that is dependent on other's actions or happenstance. All these if onlys fit, albeit somewhat awkwardly, as blocked goals. I don't have any control over whether I'll get a contract offered. I can't make people buy my books. I can't make my book sell enough to earn back an advance. I can't control the fickleness of this industry.
What I can do is create goals that can't be blocked. Goals like:
1. I will listen to the heartbeat of God and write what He inspires me to write.
2. I will not let writing, by God's strength, overshadow the needs of my family.
3. I will write the best books I can write, always seeking to improve, abounding in humility and teachability.
4. I will be patient when sales wane and trust God's sovereignty.
5. I will promote my books with this motivation: to see the kingdom of God advanced.
6. I will laugh at the unpredictability of this industry and strive to be lighthearted.
7. I will serve others and not let elusive and fleeting fame (if that happens) inflate my head.
8. I will attend conferences, read writing books, and welcome critique.
9. I will serve my readers by praying for them and answering emails when God provides time.
10. I will write for the sheer joy of it, not despising unpublished words.
So, yeah, publishing does not validate me. Sure it feels great to hold my book in my hands. It's lovely when I get a good review. But it's the hand of God on my life that brings me ultimate validation. That God stooped to earth and chose me, a frail, needy girl, stops my heart every time. And by His grace, I will carry on.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Why?
Portrait of Writing, Waiting, Letting Go
I think the most dreaded word in the english language is the word WHY?
Why you ask? Well, most of our unanswered questions from God start with the word why. Go ahead, take a moment to ask your own why question of God. So, did you get an answer? Maybe you did, but chances are if you're like me, you didn't like the answer.
Why is one of those words for me that stirs up more questions than answers. It's a word that can often depress me.
But that's not where God left me. After I went through my why not me monolgue, I gave it over to the Lord, again. It's not my job to get published. That's God's job. And he reminded me that it's not for me to know why he chooses to do things in a different way. Why someone who may have just begun his writing journey gets a book deal and others have to strive for years and years and years.
He also reminded me I need to take my eyes off the prize and keep them focused on the road ahead. Along my path to publication I think I lost my voice and became more concerned with perfecting the craft than with writing God's heart in the way only I can.
Well, I'm back on the path. I'm renewing my vision for my writing that God has called me to and when He thinks that voice is ready to be heard, it will be.
Will I still ask the question why? Most definitely, but I will hopefully be content when God chooses not to answer.
I think the most dreaded word in the english language is the word WHY?
Why you ask? Well, most of our unanswered questions from God start with the word why. Go ahead, take a moment to ask your own why question of God. So, did you get an answer? Maybe you did, but chances are if you're like me, you didn't like the answer.
Why is one of those words for me that stirs up more questions than answers. It's a word that can often depress me.
Why is there such evil in this world?Those last couple of questions were the ones I faced the first morning of the writer's conference. And it's so easy to give the pat answer...because it's God's will or it will happen all in God's timing, but the truth is, it still hurts. When you've been longing for something for so long and see no fruits of your labor, then it hurts!
Why can't I lose my extra pregnancy weight?
Why do my kids love to push my buttons?
Why do I have to go through trials and suffer?
Why is homeschooling so hard?
Why do others have writing mentors?
Why do others move quickly in their writing career while mine crawls at a snails pace?
But that's not where God left me. After I went through my why not me monolgue, I gave it over to the Lord, again. It's not my job to get published. That's God's job. And he reminded me that it's not for me to know why he chooses to do things in a different way. Why someone who may have just begun his writing journey gets a book deal and others have to strive for years and years and years.
He also reminded me I need to take my eyes off the prize and keep them focused on the road ahead. Along my path to publication I think I lost my voice and became more concerned with perfecting the craft than with writing God's heart in the way only I can.
Well, I'm back on the path. I'm renewing my vision for my writing that God has called me to and when He thinks that voice is ready to be heard, it will be.
Will I still ask the question why? Most definitely, but I will hopefully be content when God chooses not to answer.
Wishing on Dandelions
Interview with Mary E. DeMuth
Portrait of Books, Book Tour
This book deals with difficult subject matter: childhood sexual abuse and its residual affects. How did this book emerge?
My passion is to write about redemption through the avenue of story. I started the first book, Watching the Tree Limbs, in a flurry. In my mind I saw the streets of Burl and a girl who didn’t know where she came from. Because my personal story involves different instances of sexual abuse, I wanted to write a story that showed the reader how God could intersect an abuse-victim’s life and make a difference.
So, are you Maranatha?
In some ways yes, some no. Like Maranatha, I felt like God had transformed my life in such a radical way (like her name change from Mara—bitter—to Maranatha—Come Lord Jesus). Like Maranatha, I endured sexual abuse, but I was much younger when it happened. Like Maranatha, I wondered if I had been marked, that every sexual predator could “tell” I was a ready victim. I wrestled through relationships in my teens with Maranatha’s twin feelings of revulsion and attraction. But, she is not me in many other ways. She is more independent. She has no parents. She lives in an entirely different culture. She is less ambitious. She has the privilege of many wiser people to mentor her through life.
What made you decide to write a love story?
The book didn’t start out in my mind as a love story, but it evolved into it as I continued writing. Characters have that uncanny way of taking your prose and running in all sorts of directions with it. Charlie just kept being faithful. In a sense, I fell in love with him!
What made you choose East Texas as the setting for both novels?
The South fascinates me. I grew up in the Northwest. When my last child was born, my husband was transferred to East Texas to start a department in a hospital. Because I was a stay-at-home mom and home schooling, I didn’t have much else to do there except to observe small town southern culture. Because I didn’t grow up in that culture, my senses were heightened and I eventually began to really appreciate the differences.
Childhood sexual abuse is not talked about very often, and seldom covered in novels. What made you decide to write about it?
For that very reason. The more victims are quiet, the less healing they will receive. The more we talk about it, bringing heinous acts to the light, the better able we are to know we are not alone. I wrote this book so other abuse victims would feel validated and heard. And to offer hope.
Why do you end your books with hope?
Because hope is essential to Jesus’ Gospel. Even when things are bleak, there is always hope—if not in this life, then in the next. I’m not interested, however, in presenting hope in a superfluous way. I don’t want to tie up every story thread neatly. The truth is, life is tragic and difficult and bewildering, but God intersects that life and brings hope.
Have you always wanted to write?
Yes. Since my second grade teacher told my mother that she thought I was a creative writer, I’ve wanted to write. I kept a diary since the sixth grade. Though I was an English major, I didn’t start writing seriously until my first daughter was born. I wrote for ten years in obscurity before my writing career took a turn for the better.
Who are your literary heroes?
I love Harper Lee. I only wish she’d written more. Leif Enger, who wrote Peace Like a River, greatly inspired me to write visually and artistically. I love Sue Monk Kidd’s Secret Life of Bees, how you could almost taste her characters. I’m fascinated and intimidated by J.R.R. Tolkein—how he managed to create an entire world with several languages is way beyond my literary prowess.
What do you want your reader to take away from Wishing on Dandelions?
That redemption of a broken life takes time. We’re all on a journey of healing. Sometimes it’s slow going, but if we can endure through the dark times, God will bring us to new places of growth. I want the images and characters to stay with a reader for a long time.
This book deals with difficult subject matter: childhood sexual abuse and its residual affects. How did this book emerge?
My passion is to write about redemption through the avenue of story. I started the first book, Watching the Tree Limbs, in a flurry. In my mind I saw the streets of Burl and a girl who didn’t know where she came from. Because my personal story involves different instances of sexual abuse, I wanted to write a story that showed the reader how God could intersect an abuse-victim’s life and make a difference.
So, are you Maranatha?
In some ways yes, some no. Like Maranatha, I felt like God had transformed my life in such a radical way (like her name change from Mara—bitter—to Maranatha—Come Lord Jesus). Like Maranatha, I endured sexual abuse, but I was much younger when it happened. Like Maranatha, I wondered if I had been marked, that every sexual predator could “tell” I was a ready victim. I wrestled through relationships in my teens with Maranatha’s twin feelings of revulsion and attraction. But, she is not me in many other ways. She is more independent. She has no parents. She lives in an entirely different culture. She is less ambitious. She has the privilege of many wiser people to mentor her through life.
What made you decide to write a love story?
The book didn’t start out in my mind as a love story, but it evolved into it as I continued writing. Characters have that uncanny way of taking your prose and running in all sorts of directions with it. Charlie just kept being faithful. In a sense, I fell in love with him!
What made you choose East Texas as the setting for both novels?
The South fascinates me. I grew up in the Northwest. When my last child was born, my husband was transferred to East Texas to start a department in a hospital. Because I was a stay-at-home mom and home schooling, I didn’t have much else to do there except to observe small town southern culture. Because I didn’t grow up in that culture, my senses were heightened and I eventually began to really appreciate the differences.
Childhood sexual abuse is not talked about very often, and seldom covered in novels. What made you decide to write about it?
For that very reason. The more victims are quiet, the less healing they will receive. The more we talk about it, bringing heinous acts to the light, the better able we are to know we are not alone. I wrote this book so other abuse victims would feel validated and heard. And to offer hope.
Why do you end your books with hope?
Because hope is essential to Jesus’ Gospel. Even when things are bleak, there is always hope—if not in this life, then in the next. I’m not interested, however, in presenting hope in a superfluous way. I don’t want to tie up every story thread neatly. The truth is, life is tragic and difficult and bewildering, but God intersects that life and brings hope.
Have you always wanted to write?
Yes. Since my second grade teacher told my mother that she thought I was a creative writer, I’ve wanted to write. I kept a diary since the sixth grade. Though I was an English major, I didn’t start writing seriously until my first daughter was born. I wrote for ten years in obscurity before my writing career took a turn for the better.
Who are your literary heroes?
I love Harper Lee. I only wish she’d written more. Leif Enger, who wrote Peace Like a River, greatly inspired me to write visually and artistically. I love Sue Monk Kidd’s Secret Life of Bees, how you could almost taste her characters. I’m fascinated and intimidated by J.R.R. Tolkein—how he managed to create an entire world with several languages is way beyond my literary prowess.
What do you want your reader to take away from Wishing on Dandelions?
That redemption of a broken life takes time. We’re all on a journey of healing. Sometimes it’s slow going, but if we can endure through the dark times, God will bring us to new places of growth. I want the images and characters to stay with a reader for a long time.
Monday, September 25, 2006
ACFW in a Word
Portraits of ACFW, Writing Conferences, Writing
For the next week I will be summarizing my experience at ACFW in a word a day. This year's conference had a totally different feel for me than the last two conferences I attended since I began pursuing publication in fiction.
Stories from a Freshman
Both at Glorietta 2004 and ACFW Nashville 2005, I went in with enthusiasm and an agenda. I had story ideas that I wanted to pitch, and I did it with confidence (though I'm not sure where I mustered it up from.) I pitched away and almost everyone I spoke to wanted to something from me. I hadn't expected it the first year. I didn't have a manuscript finished. So I scrambled to write my suspense, sending in what now would be considered my first or second draft and guess what? I got rejection after rejection. But did I learn my lesson from Glorietta? Not really.
I pitched again at ACFW Nashville with a not so good synopsis (I found out later after it was critiqued). Though both editors requested my work, one took home that not so good proposal to only send me a rejection a month later. (I was planning on sending said editor my revised stuff) And I still have yet to send my completed manuscript to the second editor.
So this year's conference I went in with no expectations about pitching or selling. After all my entire writing was up in the air. My only goals were to build relationships with online writing buddies, to learn, and hopefully get some feedback on my current WIPs. And I did it all and still got a request for a finished manuscript as well.
This week God spoke to me more about my writing journey than about my actual writing. I will be sharing my experience at ACFW in a series of words...
Why?
Pride
Humility
Patience
Trust me. You won't want to miss what God had to say to my heart at this conference.
For my conference photos go here. But be warned, my tired mug shows up in almost every photo!
For the next week I will be summarizing my experience at ACFW in a word a day. This year's conference had a totally different feel for me than the last two conferences I attended since I began pursuing publication in fiction.
Stories from a Freshman
Both at Glorietta 2004 and ACFW Nashville 2005, I went in with enthusiasm and an agenda. I had story ideas that I wanted to pitch, and I did it with confidence (though I'm not sure where I mustered it up from.) I pitched away and almost everyone I spoke to wanted to something from me. I hadn't expected it the first year. I didn't have a manuscript finished. So I scrambled to write my suspense, sending in what now would be considered my first or second draft and guess what? I got rejection after rejection. But did I learn my lesson from Glorietta? Not really.
I pitched again at ACFW Nashville with a not so good synopsis (I found out later after it was critiqued). Though both editors requested my work, one took home that not so good proposal to only send me a rejection a month later. (I was planning on sending said editor my revised stuff) And I still have yet to send my completed manuscript to the second editor.
So this year's conference I went in with no expectations about pitching or selling. After all my entire writing was up in the air. My only goals were to build relationships with online writing buddies, to learn, and hopefully get some feedback on my current WIPs. And I did it all and still got a request for a finished manuscript as well.
This week God spoke to me more about my writing journey than about my actual writing. I will be sharing my experience at ACFW in a series of words...
Why?
Pride
Humility
Patience
Trust me. You won't want to miss what God had to say to my heart at this conference.
For my conference photos go here. But be warned, my tired mug shows up in almost every photo!
Wishing on Dandelions
Portrait of Books, Book Tour, Interview, Writing
I just had the privilege of sitting in Mary DeMuth's class at ACFW. After I heard her speak I fell in love with her love and passion for the Lord and sharing his message. I haven't yet read the first book to this wonderful series, but if it's anything like her class this week, you're in for a spiritual journey and entertaining ride.
Thank you Mary, for your being willing to write "truth" and your passion!
And now...Wishing on Dandelions.
God says I love you in many ways, some of which are hard to hear. Maranatha needs to hear God's voice. At seventeen, Natha admittedly has some trust issues. Though the abuse by a neighbor boy has stopped, Natha is anything but healed. Now her best friend has left for college, the trials of dating have begun, and God, ever since he spoke to her underneath the pecan tree years ago, has remained elusive. So when brash Georgeanne Peach blows in to take over the only place that's ever felt like home, leaving a trail of peach fabric swatches and cloying perfume, it's easy to understand how something like a little ol' tornado might not be a big deal. Like every teenager, Natha tries to sort out the confusing layers of love-of friends, of family, of suitors, and, desperately, of God. Natha struggles to find herself before she gives in to the shadow of a girl she used to be in this moving follow-up to the critically praised Watching the Tree Limbs.
If you'd like to read the first chapter, go here:http://www.relevantprose.com/Adobe/WishingOnDandelions.pdf.
Be sure and stop back tomorrow for a follow up interview with Mary on this novel. And keep coming back all week for more with Mary E. DeMuth.
I just had the privilege of sitting in Mary DeMuth's class at ACFW. After I heard her speak I fell in love with her love and passion for the Lord and sharing his message. I haven't yet read the first book to this wonderful series, but if it's anything like her class this week, you're in for a spiritual journey and entertaining ride.
Thank you Mary, for your being willing to write "truth" and your passion!
And now...Wishing on Dandelions.
God says I love you in many ways, some of which are hard to hear. Maranatha needs to hear God's voice. At seventeen, Natha admittedly has some trust issues. Though the abuse by a neighbor boy has stopped, Natha is anything but healed. Now her best friend has left for college, the trials of dating have begun, and God, ever since he spoke to her underneath the pecan tree years ago, has remained elusive. So when brash Georgeanne Peach blows in to take over the only place that's ever felt like home, leaving a trail of peach fabric swatches and cloying perfume, it's easy to understand how something like a little ol' tornado might not be a big deal. Like every teenager, Natha tries to sort out the confusing layers of love-of friends, of family, of suitors, and, desperately, of God. Natha struggles to find herself before she gives in to the shadow of a girl she used to be in this moving follow-up to the critically praised Watching the Tree Limbs.
If you'd like to read the first chapter, go here:http://www.relevantprose.com/Adobe/WishingOnDandelions.pdf.
Be sure and stop back tomorrow for a follow up interview with Mary on this novel. And keep coming back all week for more with Mary E. DeMuth.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Got Conflict?
Portrait of Writing
Conflict! Boy, can I write a book on just that subject...
There's homeschooling trials, disobedient kids, piles of laundry, marital spats, being locked out of the home, the occassional trip to the Emergency Room, and let's not forget internal conflict like that ever present mom guilt.
While most of my conflict isn't as dramatic as those in a good novel (Thank, God!) it still interferes with my life and what God has called me to do.
Sure. Some conflict is good. It helps us grow. Fleshes out our impurities so to speak. Brings the dirt to the surface so God can wash us clean. Conflict can draw us close to God if we let it.
But the conflict that keeps us from glorifing God by using the talents and gifts He gave us is NOT good. It just hinders the blessings God has for us and those he wants to touch through us.
So, here's the question.
What's keeping you from reaching your writing goals? Is it something internal that you can control like procrastination? Lack of planning? Too many distractions? Fear?
Or is it bigger, more external conflicts that control your life?
Whatever the conlict, there is a way to overcome it, whether by doing something about it or going to God who can!
Conflict! Boy, can I write a book on just that subject...
There's homeschooling trials, disobedient kids, piles of laundry, marital spats, being locked out of the home, the occassional trip to the Emergency Room, and let's not forget internal conflict like that ever present mom guilt.
While most of my conflict isn't as dramatic as those in a good novel (Thank, God!) it still interferes with my life and what God has called me to do.
Sure. Some conflict is good. It helps us grow. Fleshes out our impurities so to speak. Brings the dirt to the surface so God can wash us clean. Conflict can draw us close to God if we let it.
But the conflict that keeps us from glorifing God by using the talents and gifts He gave us is NOT good. It just hinders the blessings God has for us and those he wants to touch through us.
So, here's the question.
What's keeping you from reaching your writing goals? Is it something internal that you can control like procrastination? Lack of planning? Too many distractions? Fear?
Or is it bigger, more external conflicts that control your life?
Whatever the conlict, there is a way to overcome it, whether by doing something about it or going to God who can!
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
What's Your Motivation?
Portrait of Writing
Motivation. Some of us have a lot of it. Other's need a kick in the pants to get it going? Either way, without proper motivation your goal will never move off your to do list.
So the inevitable question from me is...what motivates you? To write, to draw close to God, to ___________ (fill in the blank.)
Hum. What motivates me to write? I really hadn't thought of it until now. If I dig back into my childhood, writing was a way to release my inner emotions in a safe environment. I wasn't really good at expressing myself verbally, but I got my point across when I wrote. Then I got really good at it, got A's in school in my writing, and people praised me. So you can see where my motivation came from. Now my writing has turned into a natural out pour of who I am.
I am therefore I write, so to speak.
But just like goals can change, so can motivation. Was your love of writing once enough to keep you happy? Are you now so obsessed with publication that you've lost your joy of writing? If so, I'd say it's probably time to re-evaluate your motivation. Publishing doesn't validate your life. Don't believe me? Check out one authors' view on the subject here.
Motivation. Some of us have a lot of it. Other's need a kick in the pants to get it going? Either way, without proper motivation your goal will never move off your to do list.
So the inevitable question from me is...what motivates you? To write, to draw close to God, to ___________ (fill in the blank.)
Hum. What motivates me to write? I really hadn't thought of it until now. If I dig back into my childhood, writing was a way to release my inner emotions in a safe environment. I wasn't really good at expressing myself verbally, but I got my point across when I wrote. Then I got really good at it, got A's in school in my writing, and people praised me. So you can see where my motivation came from. Now my writing has turned into a natural out pour of who I am.
I am therefore I write, so to speak.
But just like goals can change, so can motivation. Was your love of writing once enough to keep you happy? Are you now so obsessed with publication that you've lost your joy of writing? If so, I'd say it's probably time to re-evaluate your motivation. Publishing doesn't validate your life. Don't believe me? Check out one authors' view on the subject here.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
What's Your Goal?
Portrait of Writing, Letting Go, Faith
In preparation for the ACFW conference I'm going to reprint several articles I did for WIN.
What is your goal? As a writer? A person of faith? A mother, father, spouse, sibling, you get the point?
Imagine if you will, that you're a character in novel. What is the one thing that you want out of life? The thing you can't live without? Okay, it can be more than one thing since we have different goals for the different areas in our lives.
I'll use myself as an example: My goal as a writer is to publish a novel. As a homeschooler it's to teach my children in a way that they can learn, have fun and not drive me up the wall. As a Christian, my goal is to hear the voice of God and get to know my Savior better.
But just like faith without works is dead, so is goals without action. My novel won't be published if I don't sit down and write it. Before I can teach my children, I need to do the research and decide what we should be studying. As a Christian, my relationship with God can't move forward without me seeking Him through prayer and Bible reading.
But what if in the course of our life's journey our goals begin to change? Just as in a novel, it's okay to change goals. We all grow and learn and strive for bigger and better things. If I had a novel published, my next goal would be to publish a series. :)
In my own writing life my goals have shifted over the last couple of months. For a while I've been almost consumed with getting published and toiling endlessly to make that happen. But God is changing my heart and helping me see that to make goals without consulting Him first is futile.
As I learn to seek God before I set my list of goals, my focus is shifting from publication to simply writing well. I am learning God has a plan and the perfect timing for my writing. My only goals should be to seek Him, love my family and nurture the gift He's given me. Publication is God's job. Writing is mine!
I'm also learning to let go. It's not easy, but it's definitley freeing. So don't be afraid to set your own life's goal. Just remember that God is the editor of your life and will pull out his red pen if He sees you straying from His story line.
In preparation for the ACFW conference I'm going to reprint several articles I did for WIN.
What is your goal? As a writer? A person of faith? A mother, father, spouse, sibling, you get the point?
Imagine if you will, that you're a character in novel. What is the one thing that you want out of life? The thing you can't live without? Okay, it can be more than one thing since we have different goals for the different areas in our lives.
I'll use myself as an example: My goal as a writer is to publish a novel. As a homeschooler it's to teach my children in a way that they can learn, have fun and not drive me up the wall. As a Christian, my goal is to hear the voice of God and get to know my Savior better.
But just like faith without works is dead, so is goals without action. My novel won't be published if I don't sit down and write it. Before I can teach my children, I need to do the research and decide what we should be studying. As a Christian, my relationship with God can't move forward without me seeking Him through prayer and Bible reading.
But what if in the course of our life's journey our goals begin to change? Just as in a novel, it's okay to change goals. We all grow and learn and strive for bigger and better things. If I had a novel published, my next goal would be to publish a series. :)
In my own writing life my goals have shifted over the last couple of months. For a while I've been almost consumed with getting published and toiling endlessly to make that happen. But God is changing my heart and helping me see that to make goals without consulting Him first is futile.
As I learn to seek God before I set my list of goals, my focus is shifting from publication to simply writing well. I am learning God has a plan and the perfect timing for my writing. My only goals should be to seek Him, love my family and nurture the gift He's given me. Publication is God's job. Writing is mine!
I'm also learning to let go. It's not easy, but it's definitley freeing. So don't be afraid to set your own life's goal. Just remember that God is the editor of your life and will pull out his red pen if He sees you straying from His story line.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Self Doubts
As I sit here trying to put the finishing touches on my one sheets and sample chapters I am filled with an overwhelming doubt in my call and abilities as a writer.
What brought this on? Well, besides the scramble and the stress and pressure to make everything perfect, I realized that the momlit I'm brainstorming may not really be a momlit, but women's fiction. So I'm confused as to how to present this WIP at the conference.
And then there's the everyday reminder of how many awesome writers there are in the blogosphere. Other blogs have hundreds of subscribers and comments. Their storytelling far surpasses mine in the arena of humor, while mine tends to be on the heavy side, and that's when I question myself.
So many doubts all of a sudden rising seemingly out of nowhere. I've always had confidence in my call and my ability to write. I don't think I'm doubting that. But I guess I'm doubting whether I'm good enough to stand out in the crowd of all the great writers at the conference and here on the web.
I know God is not interested in the numbers. And it is up to Him to promote my writing. All I have to do is be obedient to the call and write. Whether He uses me to touch one or one hundred, it really shouldn't matter. Either way I God will be glorified.
What brought this on? Well, besides the scramble and the stress and pressure to make everything perfect, I realized that the momlit I'm brainstorming may not really be a momlit, but women's fiction. So I'm confused as to how to present this WIP at the conference.
And then there's the everyday reminder of how many awesome writers there are in the blogosphere. Other blogs have hundreds of subscribers and comments. Their storytelling far surpasses mine in the arena of humor, while mine tends to be on the heavy side, and that's when I question myself.
Should I be going to this conference at all?
Will I make a fool of myself thinking I can write?
Will editors roll their eyes and chuckle behind my back after they read my stuff?
Am I even prepared to talk with an editor or agent after 6 months of not writing?
Am I fooling myself into thinking that just because I like what I write others will also?
So many doubts all of a sudden rising seemingly out of nowhere. I've always had confidence in my call and my ability to write. I don't think I'm doubting that. But I guess I'm doubting whether I'm good enough to stand out in the crowd of all the great writers at the conference and here on the web.
I know God is not interested in the numbers. And it is up to Him to promote my writing. All I have to do is be obedient to the call and write. Whether He uses me to touch one or one hundred, it really shouldn't matter. Either way I God will be glorified.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
I've Given Up On Parenting Advice
Well, not really, but I'm getting there. Over at Intent, one mom has learned to shrug off the advice of others and hear the voice of God for her own family.
I think if we listen more to the voice of God instead of looking to some formula on raising our kids, we all would be better off for it. Less stress, less comparison, more grace, more understanding.
I've gone from one extreme to the other. To authoritative discipline to seemingly no discipline at all. I'm trying to settle in the middle somewhere. It isn't easy, but the journey will be worth it if I keep my eyes on the One who created my children as individuals and keep my ears open to his direction.
I think if we listen more to the voice of God instead of looking to some formula on raising our kids, we all would be better off for it. Less stress, less comparison, more grace, more understanding.
I've gone from one extreme to the other. To authoritative discipline to seemingly no discipline at all. I'm trying to settle in the middle somewhere. It isn't easy, but the journey will be worth it if I keep my eyes on the One who created my children as individuals and keep my ears open to his direction.
Friday, September 15, 2006
The Difference Between Boys and Girls
Portrait of Homeschooling, Family
Today Gracie, my four year old, wanted to learn to read. So we got out the ABeka K4 readers, the one where you read the letter sounds and blend words like C-A-T. By the fifth book I was wanting to quit, but she wanted to finish all ten. I rushed through the last five books, telling her the sounds of the words, though she could have done it herself.
She's known her letter sounds since she was 2 1/2, when we discovered The Letter Factory Video by Leap Frog. Forget about a phonics program. Run out and get this video, it'll save you months of teaching letter sounds and the video is fun and entertaining, even for adults.
Now as for Timmy, my six year old, you'd think I was asking him to read French or something. I have to bribe the kid with PS2 playing time just to get him to read past five minutes.
So is this common? I've always heard girls are eager to learn and do seat work. I could sure use a willing student after three reluctant boys!
Today Gracie, my four year old, wanted to learn to read. So we got out the ABeka K4 readers, the one where you read the letter sounds and blend words like C-A-T. By the fifth book I was wanting to quit, but she wanted to finish all ten. I rushed through the last five books, telling her the sounds of the words, though she could have done it herself.
She's known her letter sounds since she was 2 1/2, when we discovered The Letter Factory Video by Leap Frog. Forget about a phonics program. Run out and get this video, it'll save you months of teaching letter sounds and the video is fun and entertaining, even for adults.
Now as for Timmy, my six year old, you'd think I was asking him to read French or something. I have to bribe the kid with PS2 playing time just to get him to read past five minutes.
So is this common? I've always heard girls are eager to learn and do seat work. I could sure use a willing student after three reluctant boys!
Free Blog Design
Susie with Bluebirds designs did my blog and all for an amazingly affordable price. She's so easy to work with so I'm passing her Fall Contest on to you! Even if you don't win, consider dropping her an email and tell her I sent you.
- Your name will be entered into the drawing.- Entries will be accepted from 7:00pm EST on Thursday 9/15/06 until 11:59pm EST on Friday 9/22/06. *Bonus* - Mention this contest in a post on your blog and receive 5 extra entries into the drawing! The winner will be announced on http://bluebirdblogs.blogspot.com
Autumn is my favorite time of the year, and it's just right around the corner. To celebrate the beginning of the season, I'm having a contest for 2 lucky people to win a totally free, completely customized blog design from Bluebird Blogs. Information on how to enter: - Send an email with your name and blog address tobluebirdblogs@gmail.com.
- Your name will be entered into the drawing.- Entries will be accepted from 7:00pm EST on Thursday 9/15/06 until 11:59pm EST on Friday 9/22/06. *Bonus* - Mention this contest in a post on your blog and receive 5 extra entries into the drawing! The winner will be announced on http://bluebirdblogs.blogspot.com
on the morning of Saturday, September 23rd, 2006 . Good luck to everyone!
Starting to Feel the Stress
Portrait of Writing
Yesterday I used my Mother's Day gift certificate and spent two glorious hours getting pampered from head to toe with a body and face renewal. I was so relaxed when I got home, it was easy to fall asleep.
Well, today the stress of the upcoming ACFW conference is hitting. Many of you know I set aside my writing to get my priorities in order, and I've just begun to work on my WIPs again. Problem is, the writer's conference is less than a week away, and after six months of NOT writing, I don't feel prepared. Then again, I really don't have anything to pitch since nothing is complete, and I'm not making the same mistake twice (Trying to sell a book before it's actually written.)
But just so I don't look like a complete idot, I want to be prepared to talk about what I'm working on. So here's the first of several to come in the next day or so.
It's for a cozy momlit mystery. What do you think? Would you want to read more?
To unearth a killer, you have to get your fingernails dirty.
An image-conscious archeology professor tries to hold her family together after her husband’s untimely death by pretending everything is okay. Then her husband’s reputation is questioned and his colleague is found murdered.
Forced to trust God again, she must set aside her vanity and get her hands dirty to unearth the killer and preserve her husband’s good name. But will she be able to do it all before her kid’s carpool and still make it to her weekly nail appointment on time?
Yesterday I used my Mother's Day gift certificate and spent two glorious hours getting pampered from head to toe with a body and face renewal. I was so relaxed when I got home, it was easy to fall asleep.
Well, today the stress of the upcoming ACFW conference is hitting. Many of you know I set aside my writing to get my priorities in order, and I've just begun to work on my WIPs again. Problem is, the writer's conference is less than a week away, and after six months of NOT writing, I don't feel prepared. Then again, I really don't have anything to pitch since nothing is complete, and I'm not making the same mistake twice (Trying to sell a book before it's actually written.)
But just so I don't look like a complete idot, I want to be prepared to talk about what I'm working on. So here's the first of several to come in the next day or so.
It's for a cozy momlit mystery. What do you think? Would you want to read more?
To unearth a killer, you have to get your fingernails dirty.
An image-conscious archeology professor tries to hold her family together after her husband’s untimely death by pretending everything is okay. Then her husband’s reputation is questioned and his colleague is found murdered.
Forced to trust God again, she must set aside her vanity and get her hands dirty to unearth the killer and preserve her husband’s good name. But will she be able to do it all before her kid’s carpool and still make it to her weekly nail appointment on time?
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Obedience and God's Glory
Portrait of Faith
I've had to back track to week three in my study of Experiencing Christ Within because I realized I never journaled about this chapter titled Becoming Spiritually Porvocative. In layman's terms, it's all about how our obedience brings about God's glory.
When I think of obeying God, I think of striving to do what He wants so I can please Him and be blessed. But that's not what this chapter is about. It's about obeying so that the glory of God will be shown to others. It takes the focus off of ourselves and the reward (what blessing can I get by obedience?) and puts it on others and God's glory (how will my obedience affect someone else's veiw of God.)
Edwards uses this example:
To the tax collectors he said "take only what is due you" and to the soldiers he told them to "do no violence and not to falsely accuse anyone." This was exactly what each group was NOT doing.
He asked each group to do what was UNHEARD of in their day so that they would have an opportunity to unleash the power of God's glory.
The bottom line for me in this chapter: Focus on God's glory first.
The practical application: How can I give my children a better glimpse of God?
If I focus on bringing God's glory in my home and discipline, what would that look like?
So does that mean I neglect discipling them all together? No. My children need to know that the consequences of disobeience are serious.(Just ask Adam and Eve)But I would rather have them obey me out of love and respect instead of out of fear and consequences.
Focusing on God's glory takes the focus off of myself and what I can get out of my children's obedience. When I focus on God's glory, it puts me in a place where I can minister the love of God and God's power can be displayed in my relationships with my kids.
And that to me is more powerful than any form of discipline.
I've had to back track to week three in my study of Experiencing Christ Within because I realized I never journaled about this chapter titled Becoming Spiritually Porvocative. In layman's terms, it's all about how our obedience brings about God's glory.
When I think of obeying God, I think of striving to do what He wants so I can please Him and be blessed. But that's not what this chapter is about. It's about obeying so that the glory of God will be shown to others. It takes the focus off of ourselves and the reward (what blessing can I get by obedience?) and puts it on others and God's glory (how will my obedience affect someone else's veiw of God.)
Edwards uses this example:
"When John the Baptist was in the wilderness preaching about repentance to huge crowds, they asked him, 'What shall we do?'Later the tax collector came to John and then a band of soldiers. They too asked, "What shall we do?" John could have given the same answer he did before, but he choose applications specific to each group.
John could have answered with a generalized 'Love God and do what is right.' But he was much more specific. (Read Kuke 3:10-14) This challenging answer was designed to promote both a radical trust in an unseen God and a genuine concern for other's needs. As people gave away thier extra to those in need, they demonstrated that their trust was not in any surplus but in a faithful God.
To the tax collectors he said "take only what is due you" and to the soldiers he told them to "do no violence and not to falsely accuse anyone." This was exactly what each group was NOT doing.
He asked each group to do what was UNHEARD of in their day so that they would have an opportunity to unleash the power of God's glory.
The bottom line for me in this chapter: Focus on God's glory first.
The practical application: How can I give my children a better glimpse of God?
If I focus on bringing God's glory in my home and discipline, what would that look like?
Not reacting out of impatience or in anger is the first thing that comes to mind.
Using kind words when my critical spirit rears its ugly head.
Working through issues instead of arguing.
Maybe offering a little more grace instead of discipline and asking "how can God be glorified in this situation?" instead of "How can I get my childern to do what I say?" (Ouch! I needed that one.)?
So does that mean I neglect discipling them all together? No. My children need to know that the consequences of disobeience are serious.(Just ask Adam and Eve)But I would rather have them obey me out of love and respect instead of out of fear and consequences.
Focusing on God's glory takes the focus off of myself and what I can get out of my children's obedience. When I focus on God's glory, it puts me in a place where I can minister the love of God and God's power can be displayed in my relationships with my kids.
And that to me is more powerful than any form of discipline.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
I'm Not Alone
Portrait of Writing, Friends
As a child, I never seemed to fit in. At home I was the Dudley Do-Right of the family who had a higher standard of conduct and sense of justice than others in the family. I distinctly remember getting upset at the age of 8 or 9 when my older cousin told me she stole some decorative soap from a store. It was a little thing in her eyes, but a huge wrong doing in mine.
At school, I was the only one with divorced parents. I was shy and insecure. It was so hard for me to join in a conversation in the lunch room. I remember sitting with the popular girls, listening to their stories, hoping for something intelligent or funny to share. And when I did get up the nerve to speak, I felt like no one was really listening to me or truly cared. I don't know if that was true or my own perception, but I think it was a little of both.
This quote really speaks to me because even as an adult I still find it hard to fit in. Then a couple of years ago I finally found where I belong. I found a group of people that understand me completely. People I feel comfortable and confident enough around to be myself.
They're those who call themselves writers.
It feels so good to identify with others who know what I'm going through as a writer, trying to raise my family. To have someone actually "get me" is refreshing. Even my own husband doesn't quite understand the "writing thing."
But that's okay. I now have friends who do.
"Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, "What! You too? I thought I was the only one!"
~ C.S. Lewis ~
As a child, I never seemed to fit in. At home I was the Dudley Do-Right of the family who had a higher standard of conduct and sense of justice than others in the family. I distinctly remember getting upset at the age of 8 or 9 when my older cousin told me she stole some decorative soap from a store. It was a little thing in her eyes, but a huge wrong doing in mine.
At school, I was the only one with divorced parents. I was shy and insecure. It was so hard for me to join in a conversation in the lunch room. I remember sitting with the popular girls, listening to their stories, hoping for something intelligent or funny to share. And when I did get up the nerve to speak, I felt like no one was really listening to me or truly cared. I don't know if that was true or my own perception, but I think it was a little of both.
"Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, "What! You too? I thought I was the only one!"
~ C.S. Lewis ~
This quote really speaks to me because even as an adult I still find it hard to fit in. Then a couple of years ago I finally found where I belong. I found a group of people that understand me completely. People I feel comfortable and confident enough around to be myself.
They're those who call themselves writers.
It feels so good to identify with others who know what I'm going through as a writer, trying to raise my family. To have someone actually "get me" is refreshing. Even my own husband doesn't quite understand the "writing thing."
But that's okay. I now have friends who do.
Monday, September 11, 2006
We Remember
Tribute to those lost on 9-11
Blogging Chicks Carnival remembers
I Remember
God Bless the USA video tribute
CBN special
Video Tributes
CNN memorial
Flash cartoon: Tribute to the children that lost a parent. Another version.
Add your link to the comment section...
Blogging Chicks Carnival remembers
I Remember
God Bless the USA video tribute
CBN special
Video Tributes
CNN memorial
Flash cartoon: Tribute to the children that lost a parent. Another version.
Add your link to the comment section...
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Experiencing Christ Within by Dwight Edwards
Portrait of Faith
Week One Revolution Within
Week Two Experiencing Christ Within
Week Three Obedience and God's Glory and Experiencing God in Parenting
Week Four It's Okay to be Bad
Week Five Releasing Your New Purity Part I, II, III
Week One Revolution Within
Week Two Experiencing Christ Within
Week Three Obedience and God's Glory and Experiencing God in Parenting
Week Four It's Okay to be Bad
Week Five Releasing Your New Purity Part I, II, III
Saturday, September 09, 2006
I Remember: My September 11th Story
Portrait of Family
I was in my bedroom, half awake, not even dressed for the day. My baby was asleep in his crib so I flipped on the TV and there it was. The buildings on fire, the news commentators playing over and over again the planes flying into the towers. I sat in shock, not fully comprehending what was happening. My eyes were glued to the screen.
Then I saw it unfold on television. I knew what was happening even before the news commentators did. The first tower was crumbling.
More shock, disbelief.
Honestly, I can't remember all the emotions I felt. Most likely terror, fear, shock. This couldn't be happening. Then the second tower fell. It was surreal. Like something out of Hollywood.
Though I lived hundreds of miles from New York, I was worried about my kids at school. It brought back memories of the Oklahoma City bombing, and I worried about my husband being away at work while all this was going on. But most of all I was concerned for my family in New York.
I tried to call my family in New York, but the phone lines were jammed. I'm not sure how I heard the news. I think it was through email.
My dad was missing.
I wasn't really panicked, but his wife was. Maybe it was the peace of God, maybe it was disbelief that it was all happening, but I stayed calm and prayed. He came home safe and sound to Brooklyn, along with hundreds of refugee city workers who had to walk home from Manhattan. At least he didn't have to go through it alone. At least he was safe.
My family and friends were lucky that day. No one I knew or loved was lost in the attack, though plenty of my friends and family worked and lived in the city. One friend was supposed to grab breakfast at the towers after she dropped her kids off at school. The first plane hit while she was still at their school. They all saw it.
There are so many stories like the ones I shared. But there are also stories of those who didn't survive. Let's not forget them or their lives.
Please take a moment and pray for the survivors, for America, our country's leaders, this world we live in and the men fighting for our freedom.
You can find more September 11th memories here.
Blogging Chicks Carnival remembers
I was in my bedroom, half awake, not even dressed for the day. My baby was asleep in his crib so I flipped on the TV and there it was. The buildings on fire, the news commentators playing over and over again the planes flying into the towers. I sat in shock, not fully comprehending what was happening. My eyes were glued to the screen.
Then I saw it unfold on television. I knew what was happening even before the news commentators did. The first tower was crumbling.
More shock, disbelief.
Honestly, I can't remember all the emotions I felt. Most likely terror, fear, shock. This couldn't be happening. Then the second tower fell. It was surreal. Like something out of Hollywood.
Though I lived hundreds of miles from New York, I was worried about my kids at school. It brought back memories of the Oklahoma City bombing, and I worried about my husband being away at work while all this was going on. But most of all I was concerned for my family in New York.
I tried to call my family in New York, but the phone lines were jammed. I'm not sure how I heard the news. I think it was through email.
My dad was missing.
I wasn't really panicked, but his wife was. Maybe it was the peace of God, maybe it was disbelief that it was all happening, but I stayed calm and prayed. He came home safe and sound to Brooklyn, along with hundreds of refugee city workers who had to walk home from Manhattan. At least he didn't have to go through it alone. At least he was safe.
Later he told us his story:
He was teaching a class at Aveda Cosmetology school when someone said a plane crashed into the towers. They all took a break and went outside, thinking it was a freak accident. He saw the second plane fly into the tower, and he knew things weren't right, and wasn't about to wait around to find out what would happen next.
He tried to get home, but no one could get out of the city by car, bus or train. He decided to walk home with hundreds, maybe thousands of others.
My family and friends were lucky that day. No one I knew or loved was lost in the attack, though plenty of my friends and family worked and lived in the city. One friend was supposed to grab breakfast at the towers after she dropped her kids off at school. The first plane hit while she was still at their school. They all saw it.
There are so many stories like the ones I shared. But there are also stories of those who didn't survive. Let's not forget them or their lives.
Please take a moment and pray for the survivors, for America, our country's leaders, this world we live in and the men fighting for our freedom.
You can find more September 11th memories here.
Blogging Chicks Carnival remembers
Friday, September 08, 2006
We're Cooking Tonight!
Portrait of Family, Food
What do you get when you cross a freezer full of 1/3 of a cow ( we JUST got last week), two bags of Sam's unopened fish and SOMEONE who left the freezer in the garage open?
Some very creative dinners for a week! Plus, some leftovers for the neighbors.
What I've got going...
An Italian roast in the crock pot for tomorrow's dinner.
On roast in the frig to be cooked later on in the week.
Thawed t-bones for grilling tonight's dinner.
Mahi Mahi frying and some left over for grilling.
Some fish in the oven for a very creative fish casserole whenever?
Plain old fish on the stove for Chris' dinner (Good thing he loves fish!)
and the rest of the meat I refroze since they were defrosted in the frig!
Funny thing how the ground beef never defrosted!
Stay tuned for the result of the feast. If we actually like some of our concockted recipes, I'll be sure and post them.
What do you get when you cross a freezer full of 1/3 of a cow ( we JUST got last week), two bags of Sam's unopened fish and SOMEONE who left the freezer in the garage open?
Some very creative dinners for a week! Plus, some leftovers for the neighbors.
What I've got going...
An Italian roast in the crock pot for tomorrow's dinner.
On roast in the frig to be cooked later on in the week.
Thawed t-bones for grilling tonight's dinner.
Mahi Mahi frying and some left over for grilling.
Some fish in the oven for a very creative fish casserole whenever?
Plain old fish on the stove for Chris' dinner (Good thing he loves fish!)
and the rest of the meat I refroze since they were defrosted in the frig!
Funny thing how the ground beef never defrosted!
Stay tuned for the result of the feast. If we actually like some of our concockted recipes, I'll be sure and post them.
What I'm Listening to Right Now
Portrait of Family, Fun, Homeschooling
as I relax on my porch...
The sounds of my children playing in the beautiful morning sunshine. Oh, the joys of lazy homeschool days. Oh, the peace and tranquility.
Chris sits on the bench petting our dog Jedi...he comes over to see what I'm doing and makes me promise to NOT write down what he says. [shaking my head]Twelve year olds! He takes the dog for a walk.
Flies are nipping at me as a type...ugh!
Gracie: "This is Ariel Flyer, Do you Coffee?"
Timmy: "Oh, you Chitty, Chitty Bang..."
Gracie: "This is Chiminy Bang Bang." She runs over and shows me a matchbox car/plane.
Me: "Where's Chris?" He's disappeared from my view. "Chris!" I yell for the entire neighborhood to hear. He appears from around the corner down the block.
Gracie yells. "Chris, come here. Mom needs you." Then talks off down the street to meet him.
I yell: "Don't worry, Gracie"
Joey: "Gracie, it's okay." Back to playing.
Timmy: "Chris, we need you. We need your help."
Gracie: "Chris is sticking his tongue at me. He's doing this...(blows raspberries)"
Chris says something back...
Me: "Hey, flies get out of the way." I bat at the flies.
Gracie: Playing sounds. "Oh, oh, eee, ow."
Timmy: "One, two, three...what does this do?"
Gracie singing: "Old MacDonald had a farm..."
Timmy: "You're so selfish!"
Gracie: "No, you're so selfish!"
More quiet playing...
Arguing erupts from the garage. Chaos, mayhem... everyone but Timmy is upset with someone or something.
Writer...Interrupted.
I set my computer down and "deal" with the situation. Play time is OVER, kids are cleaning the mess. [Sigh] So much for the tranquility of the moment, all good things must come to an end...back to work!
as I relax on my porch...
The sounds of my children playing in the beautiful morning sunshine. Oh, the joys of lazy homeschool days. Oh, the peace and tranquility.
Chris sits on the bench petting our dog Jedi...he comes over to see what I'm doing and makes me promise to NOT write down what he says. [shaking my head]Twelve year olds! He takes the dog for a walk.
Flies are nipping at me as a type...ugh!
Gracie: "This is Ariel Flyer, Do you Coffee?"
Timmy: "Oh, you Chitty, Chitty Bang..."
Gracie: "This is Chiminy Bang Bang." She runs over and shows me a matchbox car/plane.
Me: "Where's Chris?" He's disappeared from my view. "Chris!" I yell for the entire neighborhood to hear. He appears from around the corner down the block.
Gracie yells. "Chris, come here. Mom needs you." Then talks off down the street to meet him.
I yell: "Don't worry, Gracie"
Joey: "Gracie, it's okay." Back to playing.
Timmy: "Chris, we need you. We need your help."
Gracie: "Chris is sticking his tongue at me. He's doing this...(blows raspberries)"
Chris says something back...
Me: "Hey, flies get out of the way." I bat at the flies.
Gracie: Playing sounds. "Oh, oh, eee, ow."
Timmy: "One, two, three...what does this do?"
Gracie singing: "Old MacDonald had a farm..."
Timmy: "You're so selfish!"
Gracie: "No, you're so selfish!"
More quiet playing...
Arguing erupts from the garage. Chaos, mayhem... everyone but Timmy is upset with someone or something.
Writer...Interrupted.
I set my computer down and "deal" with the situation. Play time is OVER, kids are cleaning the mess. [Sigh] So much for the tranquility of the moment, all good things must come to an end...back to work!
When is Enough, Really Enough?
Portrait of Writing
I've been working on the same WIP, no the same prologue for almost two years now. I've entered it in contests and got critiques. My crit partners have bleed all over my pages and it was even critiqued by an agent. All had great things to say. And with every critique I made changes. I thought it was almost finished. In fact, I had a writer friend look it over and she said it was excellent. Then I took the opportunity for a free critiqueby another writer/critiquer friendand it was obvious there was still room for improvement.
Now, I guess this WIP will be marked as the major LEARNING WIP because I am learning so much. But I'm wondering, will it ever be ready to get published? Honestly, I've seen some pretty bad fiction published. They could have used a dozen critiquers to help improve the prose, but when is enough really enough?
I love the new edit I just got and will make changes as I see fit, but when will it be ready to be sent out again? It's been rejected by many of the big houses, so obviously it wasn't ready. But when will it be, and when will I know?
Being a writer can be so frustrating at times. I want to learn, but in my humble opinion it takes a lot of money to learn. I've already spent probably a couple hundred (not including conferences) on this one WIP, and it's still not ready. [shaking my head] It's really enough to make me want to through in the towel.
But I can't. I'm a writer.
[Sigh]So what's your opinion? When do you shelve your WIP and move on. It might be easier for me if I didn't have such conflicting opinions about my WIP! If I knew it absolutely stunk, I'd shove it in a drawer and lift my hands in defeat. But two years on the same prologue? I haven't even finished the WIP, yet. When is enough, enough?
I've been working on the same WIP, no the same prologue for almost two years now. I've entered it in contests and got critiques. My crit partners have bleed all over my pages and it was even critiqued by an agent. All had great things to say. And with every critique I made changes. I thought it was almost finished. In fact, I had a writer friend look it over and she said it was excellent. Then I took the opportunity for a free critiqueby another writer/critiquer friendand it was obvious there was still room for improvement.Now, I guess this WIP will be marked as the major LEARNING WIP because I am learning so much. But I'm wondering, will it ever be ready to get published? Honestly, I've seen some pretty bad fiction published. They could have used a dozen critiquers to help improve the prose, but when is enough really enough?
I love the new edit I just got and will make changes as I see fit, but when will it be ready to be sent out again? It's been rejected by many of the big houses, so obviously it wasn't ready. But when will it be, and when will I know?
Being a writer can be so frustrating at times. I want to learn, but in my humble opinion it takes a lot of money to learn. I've already spent probably a couple hundred (not including conferences) on this one WIP, and it's still not ready. [shaking my head] It's really enough to make me want to through in the towel.
But I can't. I'm a writer.
[Sigh]So what's your opinion? When do you shelve your WIP and move on. It might be easier for me if I didn't have such conflicting opinions about my WIP! If I knew it absolutely stunk, I'd shove it in a drawer and lift my hands in defeat. But two years on the same prologue? I haven't even finished the WIP, yet. When is enough, enough?
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Jesus, Take the Wheel
Portrait of Faith, Writing
I wrote this to a friend who is starting on a similar journey of balance in her own life.
"Listen to that gentle whisper God is speaking to your heart and see where He wants you to let go. Writing and the critique group was one of the hardest things I had to let go of, but I believe the relationships we built will remain in tack. I've "also given up" on publication, after being driven for two years because no matter how fast I drive, He's the one that steers me down the road. I can take it slow and listen to His directions or put the pedal to the metal and take many wrong turns."
How true that last statement is:
But I guess the problem comes in when I start to look elsewhere for answers. Sometimes it's hard to hear God's voice when your kid's and everyone else's voice is screaming in your ears. It's what my momlit character Donna is going through. She buys all the latest books on parenting and homeschooling, looking for the answer to all her problems when she already has THE ANSWER. Sounds a little bit like my life. Maybe by the end of the book Donna and I will both be able to turn off the background noise and tune into the VOICE that knows the way in which I should go.
I wrote this to a friend who is starting on a similar journey of balance in her own life."Listen to that gentle whisper God is speaking to your heart and see where He wants you to let go. Writing and the critique group was one of the hardest things I had to let go of, but I believe the relationships we built will remain in tack. I've "also given up" on publication, after being driven for two years because no matter how fast I drive, He's the one that steers me down the road. I can take it slow and listen to His directions or put the pedal to the metal and take many wrong turns."
How true that last statement is:
No matter how fast I drive, He's the one that steers me down the road. I can take it slow and listen to his directions or put the pedal to the metal and take many wrong turns.
But I guess the problem comes in when I start to look elsewhere for answers. Sometimes it's hard to hear God's voice when your kid's and everyone else's voice is screaming in your ears. It's what my momlit character Donna is going through. She buys all the latest books on parenting and homeschooling, looking for the answer to all her problems when she already has THE ANSWER. Sounds a little bit like my life. Maybe by the end of the book Donna and I will both be able to turn off the background noise and tune into the VOICE that knows the way in which I should go.
JESUS, TAKE THE WHEEL (by Carrie Underwood)
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Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Wordless Wednesday
(I still support the moms for modesty code I signed over at Everyday Mommy. But this was too funny to keep to myself.)
Go here for more great pics.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
When You Care Enough To Send the Very Best, But Don't Have the Time or Money
WFMW
I used to send birthday cards to everyone. Cousins, uncles, aunts, friends, etc. That was before I had four kids. I started tappering off the card sending to the third cousins a couple of years ago. It's not that I didn't want to, I just couldn't keep up and to tell you the truth trying was too difficult especially since no one ever sent my kids birthday cards.
But living out of state, I still wanted my family to know I cared about them. Then I rediscovered this or this. I would send the occassional email card here and there, but then I realized I could pre date the cards to send on my loved ones birthday. So in a couple of hours, I picked out cards for most of my family and if they keep the same email address, it will be sent atomatically on their birthday. I even get a reminded email telling me the card was sent.
Free computer cards. Send them and forget them! It works for me!
Visit Shannon for more great ideas.
I used to send birthday cards to everyone. Cousins, uncles, aunts, friends, etc. That was before I had four kids. I started tappering off the card sending to the third cousins a couple of years ago. It's not that I didn't want to, I just couldn't keep up and to tell you the truth trying was too difficult especially since no one ever sent my kids birthday cards.
But living out of state, I still wanted my family to know I cared about them. Then I rediscovered this or this. I would send the occassional email card here and there, but then I realized I could pre date the cards to send on my loved ones birthday. So in a couple of hours, I picked out cards for most of my family and if they keep the same email address, it will be sent atomatically on their birthday. I even get a reminded email telling me the card was sent.
Free computer cards. Send them and forget them! It works for me!
Visit Shannon for more great ideas.
Writing Tips From The Apostle Paul
I'm too tired to from homeschooling today to put together a coherent sentence, but Dena Dyer has an excellent post for writers on Writing Tips From the Apostle Paul. You won't want to miss this!
First Official Day of School
Today my two older boys go to the homeschool tutorial center for their first day of classes. They'll be taking state history, Shurley grammar 6, study hall and American Sign Language. They will be in the same classes even though one is in 4th and the other in 6th grade. I know they'll do great. My biggest concern is that they'll get sick of each other being in the same classes together, but I'm stressing that they need to stick together and take care of each other.
Grace will be at preschool and Timmy and I will dive into curriculum. Saxon phonics 1 and Math 1. He's a very smart boy, but reluctant to sit and do work. I'm praying this year will be easier, and I won't have to chase him around the house or bribe him too much:)
My school room is fairly organized except for my desk. But I can live with it a couple more days. So here's to the first full day of school!
Say a prayer!
UPDATED!
Thanks to everyone for your encouagement. We had a GREAT first official day. I guess it helped that I only had one kid at home. :)
But Timmy and I were able to breeze through 15 chapters of Phonics and math. It was all review so I didn't feel putting him through tedious lessons of things he already knew were necessary, no matter how much the curriculum tells you to follow it exactly!
Anyway, today was our BIG sit down lesson day. The rest of the week will be filled with more hands on phonics and math.
Chris and Joey really enjoyed their classes, though they said they didn't understand their grammar homework. I'll have to take a look at it tomorrow.
We've all been on a pretty good schedule during the day and my computer time is definitely down, but I still can't manage to wake up early enough to get in exercise or a decent quiet time. But I'm not worried. It will come. Hey, today after I dropped Chris off at musical theatre class I went to the gym and did the elliptical for 23 minutes, and I felt it working! That's a really good thing!
Grace will be at preschool and Timmy and I will dive into curriculum. Saxon phonics 1 and Math 1. He's a very smart boy, but reluctant to sit and do work. I'm praying this year will be easier, and I won't have to chase him around the house or bribe him too much:)
My school room is fairly organized except for my desk. But I can live with it a couple more days. So here's to the first full day of school!
Say a prayer!
UPDATED!
Thanks to everyone for your encouagement. We had a GREAT first official day. I guess it helped that I only had one kid at home. :)
But Timmy and I were able to breeze through 15 chapters of Phonics and math. It was all review so I didn't feel putting him through tedious lessons of things he already knew were necessary, no matter how much the curriculum tells you to follow it exactly!
Anyway, today was our BIG sit down lesson day. The rest of the week will be filled with more hands on phonics and math.
Chris and Joey really enjoyed their classes, though they said they didn't understand their grammar homework. I'll have to take a look at it tomorrow.
We've all been on a pretty good schedule during the day and my computer time is definitely down, but I still can't manage to wake up early enough to get in exercise or a decent quiet time. But I'm not worried. It will come. Hey, today after I dropped Chris off at musical theatre class I went to the gym and did the elliptical for 23 minutes, and I felt it working! That's a really good thing!
Monday, September 04, 2006
Lynette Sowell
Portrait of a Writing Mom
Lynette Sowell is a Massachusetts Yankee who makes her home in the heart of Texas. Her cozy mystery movel A Suspicion of Strawberries releases in March 2007 from Heartsong Presents: Mystery. She has sold three novellas which release in 2006. Away from Deadline-Land and Writing World, Lynette works as a medical transcriptionist for a large HMO. She loves to read, travel, spend time with her family, and also tries not to kill her houseplants, although her tropical hibiscus have contemplated pressing charges after last winter. You can visit her web site at http://www.lynettesowell.com/.
Welcome writer or should I say published author mom, Lynette Sowell to the Portrait of a Writer...Interrupted
Tell us a little about your family and your call to write.
I've been married for 11 years to an awesome man, have two teenagers (I married a readymade family), and five cats. I've always loved to write. The writing bug bit in fifth grade, and I either got busy or managed to ignore it until 1997, when I started my first book.
Tell me a about your recent contracts and up coming releases.
In 2006, I have three novellas releasing in the Barbour anthologies Windswept Weddings (June), Bayou Brides (September), and Brothers of the Outlaw Trail (December). My first cozy mystery novel A Suspicion of Strawberries releases through Heartsong Presents Mystery in March 2007, with two more books in a series (hopefully) after that.
What do you do to encourage yourself during those stormy days every writing mom has?
I remind myself that "this too shall pass." The storm will cease eventually and I'll go on from there. It's hard sometimes because storms seem neverending.
Do you think it’s possible to give yourself fully to raising children, writing and keeping in shape?
Yes, as long as I remind myself that giving fully doesn't mean I'm perfect.
How do you balance being a mom, wife, and writer?
I try to keep my heart sensitive to what's going on with our family relationships. I've been blessed with a husband who'll gently speak up if I'm at the keyboard too much. He realizes how much I love writing and the creative process, but he also knows it's not the most important thing to me.
The more I've had deadlines after receiving contracts, the more that my time at the computer isn't an option but a must. I also keep my "mom radar" on. I can tell if the kids need me more. As they've gotten older, I realize they still need me, although not as much—but the need is still there. On the other hand, when I realize I'm not getting much writing done, I tug myself back to the chair to work (not e-mail, etc.).
How do you position yourself to HEAR God’s voice when all the noises of life are swirling around you?
I have to admit that sometimes I get busy and don't pay attention or remember to listen to God's voice. So I make myself stop, and take a spiritual time-out. Usually this is when I'm frazzled and wanting to cry and feeling generally yucky and stressed. I'll slap myself on the forehead, realize what's happening, and go to my room and have some quiet time. I pray, open the Bible, and remind myself of what's really permanent.
Do you ever feel like you’re neglecting your children when you write?
Yes, I do, even now that they're older than when I first started writing. I think that sometimes we moms heap more guilt on ourselves than we deserve. I believe we must nurture our children and meet their needs, but we do them a disservice if we allow them to think that our worlds completely revolve around them.
Our job is to teach them how to be independent and productive so that one day they can function in the world of adults, and that learning to wait is not a bad thing. (Okay, off my soapbox now. My husband runs a day care, and more and more we see children who are "at demand" children, who do not understand that their place in the home, while important, is not the sole reason for the family's existence.)
If you do feel your priorities slipping, what do you do to get back on track?
I take a time out, and stop beating myself up. If God's mercies are new every morning, I try to redirect myself and rearrange activities. If I have to tell the family, "sorry, I can't watch the DVD tonight, I have to write," I do. (We love watching movies together.)
Has there ever been a time God told you to set aside your writing to focus on other areas of your life? If so, how did you handle that?
Yes, the summer of 2004. It was hard at first. I can't say that God "told" me to stop writing, but I spent a good part of June and July trying to refinish our kitchen cabinet doors. One night my husband and I spent the evening using furniture stripper and talking. I realized that even if I wasn't working on The Great American Novel, my life was more than just okay. I realized I was blessed and that my worth consisted of more than my writing.
Did you ever feel like you’ve “missed” God in regards to writing, that maybe you should be doing something else?
I sure did. There was a very dry period when I felt like I was spinning my wheels, stuck on the same novel proposal for a long time. My prayer was, "God, if I'm wasting my time, please tell me. I can do other things for You if that's what You want. You've given me other abilities." (And this was months before I got the e-mail containing a contract.)
When do you find the time to write, and how do you handle interruptions in your writing life?
I write in the evenings, usually after supper for an hour or so. This is when I research, plot, try to get a couple thousand words written. Well, the word count might end up being in the hundreds, but writing something is better than nothing. I also try to sneak time in on Saturdays. On Sunday I might read, or do a little research. If I'm on deadline, I let my family know, "The next X number of nights I'm going to be working late."
Life is full of interruptions. I try to go with the flow. And smile. The kids are pretty good about not interrupting, especially if I'm on deadline.
How do you get back into the flow of writing after you’ve been interrupted?
I start by reading the chapter I was working on, and then jump back in.
Tell me about how you got your first “writing break.”
In spring 2005, author Rachel Hauck asked me to join in a novella anthology proposal for a group of stories based on weather-related wedding day disasters. I wrote a synopsis, first chapter, and Rachel submitted the proposal in March 2005. The about six weeks later, we had a contract. My head spun with everything happening so fast. That's the thing with fiction. You learn to wait and wait, but sometimes things happen quickly. Two more contracts followed in fall 2005, and I received my first novel contract in February 2006.
What do you write and why this genre?
Right now I'm focusing on romance novellas and cozy mysteries. I love the novellas because they're perfect for an office lunch hour read. I also love seeing four stories from four different writers come together in a wonderful blend. Done well, anthologies are as satisfying a read as novels. As far as cozy mysteries go, I've always enjoyed the genre. I like the puzzle, the whodunit, and quirky fun characters. For a while, there didn't seem to be as much of a market in the CBA. Thankfully, Barbour has started a cozy mystery line that fills a need. I'm glad to have my work included in this initial batch of novels. Another love is science fiction/fantasy. One day I'd like to explore that genre as well.
What do you hope to accomplish through your novels?
First, I want to entertain readers. As a reader, I pick up novels for a good time, an adventure, and a gripping read—not to "learn" something. However, I want my readers to identify with my characters, and hopefully they're draw them closer to God even if, like me, they're reading for pleasure. Something like an entertaining movie that has a heart-stirring "gotcha" at the end.
What advice would you give to writing moms?
Don't beat yourself up if you can't do it all. You can't. Remember, kids grow fast. It doesn't seem like it when they're in their cranky moments, or the school's calling, or you have to drive someone to yet another practice, but it's true. On the other hand, remember that if you want to write, you must find the time, even if it's in short blocks. I also work a day job, so I have a boss to keep happy as well.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
If you are writing with the goal of being published, terrific! Persist, work hard, learn and study the craft. Read good books, and dissect them to see what works. No one can gauge exactly when or how "it" happens—that story idea that gets a contract.
Also, learn how to work with other writers. Learn to play nice. The CBA world is not large, and a diva mentality won't work for long. For example, it's fun to work on a collaborative idea in an anthology, but it's important to remember it's not always about you and your story.
Thank you for being open and sharing your thoughts and wisdom with me. May God bless you as you write, raise your children and pursue His calling in your life.
Lynette Sowell is a Massachusetts Yankee who makes her home in the heart of Texas. Her cozy mystery movel A Suspicion of Strawberries releases in March 2007 from Heartsong Presents: Mystery. She has sold three novellas which release in 2006. Away from Deadline-Land and Writing World, Lynette works as a medical transcriptionist for a large HMO. She loves to read, travel, spend time with her family, and also tries not to kill her houseplants, although her tropical hibiscus have contemplated pressing charges after last winter. You can visit her web site at http://www.lynettesowell.com/.Welcome writer or should I say published author mom, Lynette Sowell to the Portrait of a Writer...Interrupted
Tell us a little about your family and your call to write.
I've been married for 11 years to an awesome man, have two teenagers (I married a readymade family), and five cats. I've always loved to write. The writing bug bit in fifth grade, and I either got busy or managed to ignore it until 1997, when I started my first book.
Tell me a about your recent contracts and up coming releases.
In 2006, I have three novellas releasing in the Barbour anthologies Windswept Weddings (June), Bayou Brides (September), and Brothers of the Outlaw Trail (December). My first cozy mystery novel A Suspicion of Strawberries releases through Heartsong Presents Mystery in March 2007, with two more books in a series (hopefully) after that.
What do you do to encourage yourself during those stormy days every writing mom has?
I remind myself that "this too shall pass." The storm will cease eventually and I'll go on from there. It's hard sometimes because storms seem neverending.
Do you think it’s possible to give yourself fully to raising children, writing and keeping in shape?
Yes, as long as I remind myself that giving fully doesn't mean I'm perfect.
How do you balance being a mom, wife, and writer?
I try to keep my heart sensitive to what's going on with our family relationships. I've been blessed with a husband who'll gently speak up if I'm at the keyboard too much. He realizes how much I love writing and the creative process, but he also knows it's not the most important thing to me.
The more I've had deadlines after receiving contracts, the more that my time at the computer isn't an option but a must. I also keep my "mom radar" on. I can tell if the kids need me more. As they've gotten older, I realize they still need me, although not as much—but the need is still there. On the other hand, when I realize I'm not getting much writing done, I tug myself back to the chair to work (not e-mail, etc.).
How do you position yourself to HEAR God’s voice when all the noises of life are swirling around you?
I have to admit that sometimes I get busy and don't pay attention or remember to listen to God's voice. So I make myself stop, and take a spiritual time-out. Usually this is when I'm frazzled and wanting to cry and feeling generally yucky and stressed. I'll slap myself on the forehead, realize what's happening, and go to my room and have some quiet time. I pray, open the Bible, and remind myself of what's really permanent.
Do you ever feel like you’re neglecting your children when you write?
Yes, I do, even now that they're older than when I first started writing. I think that sometimes we moms heap more guilt on ourselves than we deserve. I believe we must nurture our children and meet their needs, but we do them a disservice if we allow them to think that our worlds completely revolve around them.
Our job is to teach them how to be independent and productive so that one day they can function in the world of adults, and that learning to wait is not a bad thing. (Okay, off my soapbox now. My husband runs a day care, and more and more we see children who are "at demand" children, who do not understand that their place in the home, while important, is not the sole reason for the family's existence.)
If you do feel your priorities slipping, what do you do to get back on track?
I take a time out, and stop beating myself up. If God's mercies are new every morning, I try to redirect myself and rearrange activities. If I have to tell the family, "sorry, I can't watch the DVD tonight, I have to write," I do. (We love watching movies together.)
Has there ever been a time God told you to set aside your writing to focus on other areas of your life? If so, how did you handle that?
Yes, the summer of 2004. It was hard at first. I can't say that God "told" me to stop writing, but I spent a good part of June and July trying to refinish our kitchen cabinet doors. One night my husband and I spent the evening using furniture stripper and talking. I realized that even if I wasn't working on The Great American Novel, my life was more than just okay. I realized I was blessed and that my worth consisted of more than my writing.
Did you ever feel like you’ve “missed” God in regards to writing, that maybe you should be doing something else?
I sure did. There was a very dry period when I felt like I was spinning my wheels, stuck on the same novel proposal for a long time. My prayer was, "God, if I'm wasting my time, please tell me. I can do other things for You if that's what You want. You've given me other abilities." (And this was months before I got the e-mail containing a contract.)
When do you find the time to write, and how do you handle interruptions in your writing life?
I write in the evenings, usually after supper for an hour or so. This is when I research, plot, try to get a couple thousand words written. Well, the word count might end up being in the hundreds, but writing something is better than nothing. I also try to sneak time in on Saturdays. On Sunday I might read, or do a little research. If I'm on deadline, I let my family know, "The next X number of nights I'm going to be working late."
Life is full of interruptions. I try to go with the flow. And smile. The kids are pretty good about not interrupting, especially if I'm on deadline.
How do you get back into the flow of writing after you’ve been interrupted?
I start by reading the chapter I was working on, and then jump back in.
Tell me about how you got your first “writing break.”
In spring 2005, author Rachel Hauck asked me to join in a novella anthology proposal for a group of stories based on weather-related wedding day disasters. I wrote a synopsis, first chapter, and Rachel submitted the proposal in March 2005. The about six weeks later, we had a contract. My head spun with everything happening so fast. That's the thing with fiction. You learn to wait and wait, but sometimes things happen quickly. Two more contracts followed in fall 2005, and I received my first novel contract in February 2006.
What do you write and why this genre?
Right now I'm focusing on romance novellas and cozy mysteries. I love the novellas because they're perfect for an office lunch hour read. I also love seeing four stories from four different writers come together in a wonderful blend. Done well, anthologies are as satisfying a read as novels. As far as cozy mysteries go, I've always enjoyed the genre. I like the puzzle, the whodunit, and quirky fun characters. For a while, there didn't seem to be as much of a market in the CBA. Thankfully, Barbour has started a cozy mystery line that fills a need. I'm glad to have my work included in this initial batch of novels. Another love is science fiction/fantasy. One day I'd like to explore that genre as well.
What do you hope to accomplish through your novels?
First, I want to entertain readers. As a reader, I pick up novels for a good time, an adventure, and a gripping read—not to "learn" something. However, I want my readers to identify with my characters, and hopefully they're draw them closer to God even if, like me, they're reading for pleasure. Something like an entertaining movie that has a heart-stirring "gotcha" at the end.
What advice would you give to writing moms?
Don't beat yourself up if you can't do it all. You can't. Remember, kids grow fast. It doesn't seem like it when they're in their cranky moments, or the school's calling, or you have to drive someone to yet another practice, but it's true. On the other hand, remember that if you want to write, you must find the time, even if it's in short blocks. I also work a day job, so I have a boss to keep happy as well.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
If you are writing with the goal of being published, terrific! Persist, work hard, learn and study the craft. Read good books, and dissect them to see what works. No one can gauge exactly when or how "it" happens—that story idea that gets a contract.
Also, learn how to work with other writers. Learn to play nice. The CBA world is not large, and a diva mentality won't work for long. For example, it's fun to work on a collaborative idea in an anthology, but it's important to remember it's not always about you and your story.
Thank you for being open and sharing your thoughts and wisdom with me. May God bless you as you write, raise your children and pursue His calling in your life.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Just Reminding Myself God is in Control
Portrait of Faith, Homeschooling, Writing, Family
As homeschooling swings into full gear and ACFW conference is just a few weeks away I need to remind myself that God is in control of this season in my life...
Lou Holtz - "Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it."
Philippians 4:6
"Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns.
Be anxious for nothing..." The Message
As homeschooling swings into full gear and ACFW conference is just a few weeks away I need to remind myself that God is in control of this season in my life...
Lou Holtz - "Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it."
Philippians 4:6
"Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns.
Be anxious for nothing..." The Message
Saturday, September 02, 2006
A Solute to Teachers Everywhere
Teachers NEED Prayer
Portrait of Fun, Faith
I just got this in an email and thought it was worth a post.
After being interviewed by the school administration, the eager teaching prospect said:
"Let me see if I've got this right. You want me to go into that room with all those kids, and fill their every waking moment with a love for learning, and I'm supposed to instill a sense of pride in their ethnicity, modify their disruptive behavior, observe them for signs of abuse and even censor their T-shirt messages and dress habits."
"You want me to wage a war on drugs and sexually transmitted diseases, check their backpacks for weapons of mass destruction, and raise their self esteem. You want me to teach them patriotism, good citizenship, sportsmanship, fair play, how to register to vote, how to balance a checkbook, and how to apply for a job."
"I am to check their heads for lice, maintain a safe environment, recognize signs of anti-social behavior, make sure all students pass the state exams, even those who don't come to school regularly or complete any of their assignments. Plus, I am to make sure that all of the students with handicaps get an equal education regardless of the extent of their mental or physical handicap."
"I am to communicate regularly with the parents by letter, telephone, newsletter and report card. All of this I am to do with just a piece of chalk, a computer, a few books, a bulletin board, a big smile AND on a starting salary that qualifies my family for food stamps!"
"You want me to do all of this and then you tell me...I CAN'T PRAY?"
I just got this in an email and thought it was worth a post.
After being interviewed by the school administration, the eager teaching prospect said:
"Let me see if I've got this right. You want me to go into that room with all those kids, and fill their every waking moment with a love for learning, and I'm supposed to instill a sense of pride in their ethnicity, modify their disruptive behavior, observe them for signs of abuse and even censor their T-shirt messages and dress habits."
"You want me to wage a war on drugs and sexually transmitted diseases, check their backpacks for weapons of mass destruction, and raise their self esteem. You want me to teach them patriotism, good citizenship, sportsmanship, fair play, how to register to vote, how to balance a checkbook, and how to apply for a job."
"I am to check their heads for lice, maintain a safe environment, recognize signs of anti-social behavior, make sure all students pass the state exams, even those who don't come to school regularly or complete any of their assignments. Plus, I am to make sure that all of the students with handicaps get an equal education regardless of the extent of their mental or physical handicap."
"I am to communicate regularly with the parents by letter, telephone, newsletter and report card. All of this I am to do with just a piece of chalk, a computer, a few books, a bulletin board, a big smile AND on a starting salary that qualifies my family for food stamps!"
"You want me to do all of this and then you tell me...I CAN'T PRAY?"
Friday, September 01, 2006
Been There. Seen That!
Portrait of Fun
I've seen this little map plastered on just about everyone's blog so I'd thought I'd join in. Now I haven't stayed in all of these states, but I have driven through all of the ones in red. Does't that count? In my book it does.
Looks like I know where I need to go for my next couple of vacations. Up north! If you want your own map, check this out.
create your own visited states map
or check out these Google Hacks.
I've seen this little map plastered on just about everyone's blog so I'd thought I'd join in. Now I haven't stayed in all of these states, but I have driven through all of the ones in red. Does't that count? In my book it does.
Looks like I know where I need to go for my next couple of vacations. Up north! If you want your own map, check this out.
create your own visited states map
or check out these Google Hacks.
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