Introspection
Last week I was asked to do an internet radio interview. One of the questions that was asked was: "Why do you write?"
Hmmmmm It had been a long time since I took time to answer that question. I do ask if of myself on occasion, but once again I was standing with this question to be addressed.
I love to write. When I am working on a book or article I feel very close to God. I feel His inspiration behind the stories that I tell. The character's interactions are a little like the way my sons are with their dad and me. It takes me back when I write the ligt-hearted scenes.
The troublesome scenes sometimes/most times are struggles that the Lord is working on me about. In "Nan's Journey", it was forgiveness. In "Elk's Resolve" it was overcoming depression. In "Luke's Legacy" it was realizing that God has no grandchildren. Everyone makes the decision for Jesus on their own no matter how much I want to make that decision for them.
Book IV, "Timothy's Home", is still in my laptop. I am thinking that the message of this book will be mostly about God's grace.
I write because I learn so much about God and I learn about myself. I write because, maybe, if you or someone you know reads my book, you will see answers to questions you have about everyday life and how Jesus makes a difference.
A new author friend of mine is Patricia Kubus. You will love reading her interview that she did for me.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Patricia Kubus, I use my author name with my maiden name Patricia Goskowski Kubus. The title of my first Children's book is "Amanda Helps Becky Say Farewell"
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
One important information I would like my readers or I should say the parent's of my readers to know is that I am a dedicated and compassionate mother, I place these feelings in my writings. I love my children, along with all children as well.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer? My relaxation as a child growing into my years as an adult was poetry. Writing poetry always came natural to me and I found myself many nights writing my feelings in poetry to share with family members. My first born had died from complications of a birth defect, my writings turned into stories with summarized poetry; which helped me through tough times and I am now passing it along to be published to share with the world.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I have only published the one story; which focuses on tough questions for a child about death. In each of my future stories, I pick situations that children find themselves in that are difficult to deal with; such as getting stuck in an elevator, going to school for the first time, and getting bullied around. These are situations where I find my character, Amanda the Angel can come in and help with questions each child has and/or keep them company for a moment to help them thru it. At the end, I summarize the story in a poem, which I think might be a nice reminder that they can hang on their wall or place in their side drawer to refer to from time to time.
5. Are you a reader?
Now I read more than I have in years past. I'm finding it fun now to be on good reads and do recommendations about books I've read. My children are young and I do what I can to keep their interest in books.
6. What are you reading right now?
"Getting Through the Tough Stuff" by Charles R. Swindoll
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
I have four books tucked away.
I actually found myself with an interesting option. Now that I have published my first book, my son came to me with a story he would like me to write. He gave me the core elements of the story of a young boy who's a basketball player. This player is pressured by the team that he needs to play better and my son wants me to have Amanda come in and help this boy with his pressure from the team players. My son wants me to point out in learning the fact that it's just a game and this young boy shouldn't have to carry such a burden to win. I was so blown away that my child took the time to write a story for me. I'm feeling compelled to write this next one just for him. It's a great feeling to know I'm pulling a little inspiration out of my child.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I would have to say, my biggest obstacle is patience. I know if I write and then walk away from it, the next time I come back to it, makes it even better. Sometimes I force to much, because I'm anxious to get it done; when I let the right people help me to read it and I digest it, then come back to it, I make it better.
9. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. Log onto: www.patriciakubus.com
Nan's Heritage Series-Set in the 1800s- Book I, Nan's Journey-Book II, Elk's Resolve-Book III, Luke's Legacy- Book IV, The Eyes of a Stranger- Book V, Timothy's Home Rescued...A Series of Hope Book I, Some Happy Day - Book II, Capture the Wandering Heart- Book III, Walk Slowly Through the Dark Nashville Series set in 1974: Six Miles From Nashville
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Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Amy Gatliff author of The Power to Never Give Up
Opening up your heart
Some people find it very hard to let new people into their life. I guess that it can be dangerous, but most of the time we find that new people that we see are for the most part, a lot like us.
Taking the time to get to know our neighbors is something we all put off. What if they have ... "issues"? Yes, we all have them. I am thinking that if we pull away from everyone we will find ourselves living in a cocoon or sorts. How on earth can we be a help to our world if we are in a cocoon? You remember that Jesus said to Go out to the world and preach the Gospel. I am committed to reach those I can reach, love those I meet, and try to have hands like those of Jesus. Will you join me?
I want you to read about Amy Gatliff, author.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? My name is Amy Gatliff, and the title of my first book is "The Power to Never Give Up."
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you? In my writing, I like to be transparent and allow others to learn from my life whether that be from the good choices that I have made or the mistakes that I have made.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I never dreamed that I would become a writer until around 2007. I began to sense the Lord directing me to share my testimony with others to offer them hope and encouragement.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I believe it lies within my willingness to be open and share through my life's experiences. By doing so, I am able to connect with the reader on many levels.
5. Are you a reader?
Actually, I am not much of a reader. It takes a lot of discipline for me to stay committed in my Bible reading and in reading other books.
6. What are you reading right now?
I am reading a book by Joyce Meyer titled "I Dare You."
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
Tell about it. I have only recently began my second book. It has not been submitted for publication at this time. It is in the very early stages of being written.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacles to writing would be finding the right words to say that would appeal to the reader and writing for extended amounts of time. The ways that I overcome them is through prayer; I also use the dictionary from time to time to help me with some of my wording; and I will set time limits for my writing.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) Have you ever tried to face life's challenges, only to feel weak, lonely, and discouraged at the end of the day? In The Power to Never Give Up, author Amy Gatliff shares her personal experiences of such challenges, and through her transparency and brutal honesty reveals the struggles and victories throughout her life. Amy's story will be an inspiration and encouragement for anyone who finds themselves facing challenges, such as disappointment, anger, death, and bankruptcy. Amy looks deep within her faith to find The Power to Never Give Up.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books?
Please put your website or blog here. Through my website at http://amygatliff.tatepublishing.net/. I also have a blog here that I would love to share with them. There is also contact information for speaking engagements.
Some people find it very hard to let new people into their life. I guess that it can be dangerous, but most of the time we find that new people that we see are for the most part, a lot like us.
Taking the time to get to know our neighbors is something we all put off. What if they have ... "issues"? Yes, we all have them. I am thinking that if we pull away from everyone we will find ourselves living in a cocoon or sorts. How on earth can we be a help to our world if we are in a cocoon? You remember that Jesus said to Go out to the world and preach the Gospel. I am committed to reach those I can reach, love those I meet, and try to have hands like those of Jesus. Will you join me?
I want you to read about Amy Gatliff, author.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? My name is Amy Gatliff, and the title of my first book is "The Power to Never Give Up."
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you? In my writing, I like to be transparent and allow others to learn from my life whether that be from the good choices that I have made or the mistakes that I have made.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I never dreamed that I would become a writer until around 2007. I began to sense the Lord directing me to share my testimony with others to offer them hope and encouragement.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I believe it lies within my willingness to be open and share through my life's experiences. By doing so, I am able to connect with the reader on many levels.
5. Are you a reader?
Actually, I am not much of a reader. It takes a lot of discipline for me to stay committed in my Bible reading and in reading other books.
6. What are you reading right now?
I am reading a book by Joyce Meyer titled "I Dare You."
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
Tell about it. I have only recently began my second book. It has not been submitted for publication at this time. It is in the very early stages of being written.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacles to writing would be finding the right words to say that would appeal to the reader and writing for extended amounts of time. The ways that I overcome them is through prayer; I also use the dictionary from time to time to help me with some of my wording; and I will set time limits for my writing.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) Have you ever tried to face life's challenges, only to feel weak, lonely, and discouraged at the end of the day? In The Power to Never Give Up, author Amy Gatliff shares her personal experiences of such challenges, and through her transparency and brutal honesty reveals the struggles and victories throughout her life. Amy's story will be an inspiration and encouragement for anyone who finds themselves facing challenges, such as disappointment, anger, death, and bankruptcy. Amy looks deep within her faith to find The Power to Never Give Up.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books?
Please put your website or blog here. Through my website at http://amygatliff.tatepublishing.net/. I also have a blog here that I would love to share with them. There is also contact information for speaking engagements.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Jeanette Morgan, author of The Voice That Must Be Heard: Awakening Your Heart, Mind and Spirit through the Power of Divine Revelation
A Chill in the Air
In September we feel a chill in the air at times. The blustery wind catches us off guard. The same thing happens in relationships when we encounter people that we know. Sometimes, it would appear out of nowhere, there is a coolness. What happened? Have I offended someone?
At times it is only that the person is having a bad day and their usually warm personality is dampened. We have to allow for that. If it continues, then it is our responsibility to try to see what happened. If there is something that we have done, amends must be made. People are worth it. Even if they are just casual friends, they are worth it.
I want to endeavor to do this. It is always a work in progress. (If you ever open your mouth and say a word, you have to opportunity to hurt someone even if it is not your intention...be careful.)
I have heard it said that if you say few words you are more likely not to say things you shouldn't. That may be true, but my feeling is that if you say no words, it leaves people the option of trying to read your mind. Be careful for one another. Love genuinely. It will go well.
I want you to meet Jeanette Morgan, author.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
The Voice That Must Be Heard: Awakening your Heart , Mind and Spirit through the Power of Divine Revelation
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I've been a Christian for 10 years and struggled with my identity for a lot of years. I worked for a big software company before God called me to be home and raise my children. It was during that time, I struggled personally, and financially and yet while I struggled and went through deliverance and healing I also became a better me through understanding God's grace and discovering my identity in Him.
My intimacy and friendship with God grew and solidified in my life. My faith has been stretched so much I believe he has made me a more authentic and transparent person. What you see is what you get and I have no desire to wear a religious mask. I'm goofy at times and love to laugh. I'm imperfect but very passionate about the Holy Spirit and God's love for His people. I'm learning everyday that I was designed the way I am for a purpose and I don't need to change who I am ultimately, I just need to abide in who He is! He smooths out my rough edges and enhances my good fruits.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I didn't. It was a treasure God had placed deep inside me and He brought it to the surface one day and I just began to write the revelations he was downloading to my spirit through his word. never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined I would be a published author someday. God's dreams are so much bigger than ours. We often see limitations in our giftings where God sees abundance.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I believe I am a simple writer delivering simple yet powerful revelatory understanding of what God wants his true children to know. When you read my book you will get a sense that I am having a conversation with you one to one and that it speaks directly to you.
5. Are you a reader?
I absolutely love to read. It's one of my favorite passions. Especially reading anything having to do with God. I love hearing more and more about Him and the Kingdom of Heaven
6. What are you reading right now?
Kris Valloton and Bill Johnson's-The Supernatural ways of Royalty
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes, I am currently working on two more books! One is about Spirit and Truth and how when coupled together brings Life. We were never meant to just have one or the other as they are a dynamic duo and the Church must have both in order to produce life within the Body of Christ. The other one is about dreams and how sometimes we can have the craziest dreams and we are quick to discount them as a bad pizza dream but often God is really providing a lot of counsel and wisdom to his people through his language of dreams.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I would say my biggest obstacles to writing would be the demands of my household. As a stay at home mom with three little ones, ages 7, 5 and 18 months it can be difficult to get that time to write. But honestly God is so gracious with me. He downloads his revelation so quickly and I find myself writing a page or two within 20-30 minutes. I did however write my first book late at night or in the middle of the night while my family slept. That was the time I could have intimate fellowship with the Holy Spirit without being distracted. But again God was so faithful to give me a lot in a short amount of time because he knew what my limitations were and the responsibilities I had as a wife and mother to my family.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Do you feel as if you’re wandering in desert places? Are there times in your spiritual walk when you feel frustrated, confused, and exhausted? If you have, then be still and listen for The Voice That Must Be Heard. Author Jeanette Morgan shares a God-sent collection of revelations from the Father of Creation that expresses his love and grace for his children, dispensing wisdom to experience all that humankind was created for—his glory. The revelations in this Holy Spirit-inspired book will help to bring clarity, encouragement, understanding, and knowledge in a grace-infused manner.
The Voice that Must Be Heard will ignite the fire in you once again to continue on your journey of faith, healing, and deliverance and to grow into deeper intimacy and greater freedom with Jesus.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My book can be purchased at Tate Publishing, BN.com, borders.com, and amazon.com.
I can be contacted at: jeanettecmorgan@yahoo.com or my facebook fan page:http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Voice-That-Must-Be-Heard-Jeanette-C-Morgan/236490558461?ref=mf
In September we feel a chill in the air at times. The blustery wind catches us off guard. The same thing happens in relationships when we encounter people that we know. Sometimes, it would appear out of nowhere, there is a coolness. What happened? Have I offended someone?
At times it is only that the person is having a bad day and their usually warm personality is dampened. We have to allow for that. If it continues, then it is our responsibility to try to see what happened. If there is something that we have done, amends must be made. People are worth it. Even if they are just casual friends, they are worth it.
I want to endeavor to do this. It is always a work in progress. (If you ever open your mouth and say a word, you have to opportunity to hurt someone even if it is not your intention...be careful.)
I have heard it said that if you say few words you are more likely not to say things you shouldn't. That may be true, but my feeling is that if you say no words, it leaves people the option of trying to read your mind. Be careful for one another. Love genuinely. It will go well.
I want you to meet Jeanette Morgan, author.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
The Voice That Must Be Heard: Awakening your Heart , Mind and Spirit through the Power of Divine Revelation
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I've been a Christian for 10 years and struggled with my identity for a lot of years. I worked for a big software company before God called me to be home and raise my children. It was during that time, I struggled personally, and financially and yet while I struggled and went through deliverance and healing I also became a better me through understanding God's grace and discovering my identity in Him.
My intimacy and friendship with God grew and solidified in my life. My faith has been stretched so much I believe he has made me a more authentic and transparent person. What you see is what you get and I have no desire to wear a religious mask. I'm goofy at times and love to laugh. I'm imperfect but very passionate about the Holy Spirit and God's love for His people. I'm learning everyday that I was designed the way I am for a purpose and I don't need to change who I am ultimately, I just need to abide in who He is! He smooths out my rough edges and enhances my good fruits.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I didn't. It was a treasure God had placed deep inside me and He brought it to the surface one day and I just began to write the revelations he was downloading to my spirit through his word. never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined I would be a published author someday. God's dreams are so much bigger than ours. We often see limitations in our giftings where God sees abundance.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I believe I am a simple writer delivering simple yet powerful revelatory understanding of what God wants his true children to know. When you read my book you will get a sense that I am having a conversation with you one to one and that it speaks directly to you.
5. Are you a reader?
I absolutely love to read. It's one of my favorite passions. Especially reading anything having to do with God. I love hearing more and more about Him and the Kingdom of Heaven
6. What are you reading right now?
Kris Valloton and Bill Johnson's-The Supernatural ways of Royalty
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes, I am currently working on two more books! One is about Spirit and Truth and how when coupled together brings Life. We were never meant to just have one or the other as they are a dynamic duo and the Church must have both in order to produce life within the Body of Christ. The other one is about dreams and how sometimes we can have the craziest dreams and we are quick to discount them as a bad pizza dream but often God is really providing a lot of counsel and wisdom to his people through his language of dreams.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I would say my biggest obstacles to writing would be the demands of my household. As a stay at home mom with three little ones, ages 7, 5 and 18 months it can be difficult to get that time to write. But honestly God is so gracious with me. He downloads his revelation so quickly and I find myself writing a page or two within 20-30 minutes. I did however write my first book late at night or in the middle of the night while my family slept. That was the time I could have intimate fellowship with the Holy Spirit without being distracted. But again God was so faithful to give me a lot in a short amount of time because he knew what my limitations were and the responsibilities I had as a wife and mother to my family.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Do you feel as if you’re wandering in desert places? Are there times in your spiritual walk when you feel frustrated, confused, and exhausted? If you have, then be still and listen for The Voice That Must Be Heard. Author Jeanette Morgan shares a God-sent collection of revelations from the Father of Creation that expresses his love and grace for his children, dispensing wisdom to experience all that humankind was created for—his glory. The revelations in this Holy Spirit-inspired book will help to bring clarity, encouragement, understanding, and knowledge in a grace-infused manner.
The Voice that Must Be Heard will ignite the fire in you once again to continue on your journey of faith, healing, and deliverance and to grow into deeper intimacy and greater freedom with Jesus.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My book can be purchased at Tate Publishing, BN.com, borders.com, and amazon.com.
I can be contacted at: jeanettecmorgan@yahoo.com or my facebook fan page:http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Voice-That-Must-Be-Heard-Jeanette-C-Morgan/236490558461?ref=mf
Monday, September 13, 2010
Friday, September 10, 2010
Singing With Jesus
A year or so ago as I went to sleep I whispered something like "I love you , Lord."
Towards morning I had a vivid dream.
I heard a man's baratone voice singing so beautifully. It was like a love song...only not really. I knew he was singing to my friend, Rhonda. I soon realized that it was Jesus' voice. I was so happy for Rhonda.
She sang back..now she sings so well...it blessed me so much. He sang with her. Tears were in my eyes because of the joy I felt and was so glad for her.
The voice came close to my ear and was saying things like, "I love you and I have chosen you to love..." I realized that I felt His breath on my cheek and Jesus was singing to me. I threw back my head and sang with a strong and wonderful voice (that I do not naturally possess) I felt the song start out of my toes and move through my body and the top of my head. I knew that I was singing with every fiber of my being. I held nothing back. "Open the eyes of my heart, Lord. Open the eyes of my heart. I want to see You. I want to see YOU." (That song was brand new to me at the time)
He began singing back to me and I joined in with a song I didn't know. It was pure worship. I sang so hard that I was spent, but new vigor returned to my body as I sang with Him. We sang together a long time.
I awoke and felt His Presence in the room. I was softly humming and had such joy rushing out of me. I felt peace and strength all day. Every time I think about it, the thrill rushes over me again.
During the next week I began listening to a preaching tape. The speaker, Graham Cook, said something about the Lord singing over us. He then sang a song that was inspired from the Lord called, "Sing Over Me Again". I just knelt down in my living room and worshipped about the goodness and kindness of God.
I share this with you today, because I know you need to know that Jesus loves you and sings over you. He wants you to be encouraged by his goodness and kindness. He always wants to hear whatever you have to say. He really is listening.
Towards morning I had a vivid dream.
I heard a man's baratone voice singing so beautifully. It was like a love song...only not really. I knew he was singing to my friend, Rhonda. I soon realized that it was Jesus' voice. I was so happy for Rhonda.
She sang back..now she sings so well...it blessed me so much. He sang with her. Tears were in my eyes because of the joy I felt and was so glad for her.
The voice came close to my ear and was saying things like, "I love you and I have chosen you to love..." I realized that I felt His breath on my cheek and Jesus was singing to me. I threw back my head and sang with a strong and wonderful voice (that I do not naturally possess) I felt the song start out of my toes and move through my body and the top of my head. I knew that I was singing with every fiber of my being. I held nothing back. "Open the eyes of my heart, Lord. Open the eyes of my heart. I want to see You. I want to see YOU." (That song was brand new to me at the time)
He began singing back to me and I joined in with a song I didn't know. It was pure worship. I sang so hard that I was spent, but new vigor returned to my body as I sang with Him. We sang together a long time.
I awoke and felt His Presence in the room. I was softly humming and had such joy rushing out of me. I felt peace and strength all day. Every time I think about it, the thrill rushes over me again.
During the next week I began listening to a preaching tape. The speaker, Graham Cook, said something about the Lord singing over us. He then sang a song that was inspired from the Lord called, "Sing Over Me Again". I just knelt down in my living room and worshipped about the goodness and kindness of God.
I share this with you today, because I know you need to know that Jesus loves you and sings over you. He wants you to be encouraged by his goodness and kindness. He always wants to hear whatever you have to say. He really is listening.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Eyvonna Rains
What is an author?
I am like most of you, I have had a very different idea of what an author looks like. Most of the time I do not resemble the image I have in my mind.
I have met a boat-load of authors this year and I can tell you that they are, for the most part, very warm and kind people that have stuck their neck out to let people see into a part of their heart.
I think that writing down words for other people to read makes the writer vulnerable in some ways. The secrets are unveiled.
In writing, I have discovered things about myself that I had never known before. I am forced to have an opinion on issues that I would rather shove under the rug, but if they are important they have to be examined.
Know this, authors care about what you think of their writing. If something inspires you, please go through the effort to tell the writer that it meant something to you. A word of encouragement is sometimes the only thing that keeps writers writing.
Today I want you to hear what author, Eyvonna Rains has to say.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? Sleep, My Child by Eyvonna Rains
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I started a poetry club because I love to share my poems with others and hear what they have written, as well.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I started writing poetry and sharing it with people and got a lot of good feedback. I love when an idea for a poem or a story strikes me and I go into that dreamy world where nothing else exists and just write. It's euphoric.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My point of view is different. It may not be earth-shattering and brand new, but it's mine. I have learned that there is no one else just like me and I think that's great.
5. Are you a reader?
Absolutely! I love stories. You could say that I'm addicted.
6. What are you reading right now?
Till We Have Faces and Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis. The first is my favorite and I'm reading it to my husband because I want to share it with him.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have a book of Christian poetry and the story behind the poems. I hope to fill it with great photography to go with each one. I have finished a children's book tentatively titled, Color Makes Me Feel. It's about the psychology of color from a young perspective. (This idea came from my background in color consulting.) A Marriage Guide for the First Time Bride is a positive book full of advice from 'veteran married people' to a young bride from a Christian perspective. This is in response to a young engaged friend who was frightened by all of the bad things people kept telling her about marriage. She needed her positive friends with successful marriages to give her Godly advice. And there's more.......
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? My children!! My boys are 5 and 3 and keep me hopping! I write during naps, after they go to bed and any time that I have some quiet time and I don't need to nap!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) Sleep, My Child is a comforting picture book to encourage your child to drift into dreamland. The verses encourage imagination and the fantasy world of dreams. "When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet." Proverbs 3:24
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Sleep-My-Child-by-Eyvonna-Rains/217339737888?ref=ts
eyvonnarains@msn.com
I am like most of you, I have had a very different idea of what an author looks like. Most of the time I do not resemble the image I have in my mind.
I have met a boat-load of authors this year and I can tell you that they are, for the most part, very warm and kind people that have stuck their neck out to let people see into a part of their heart.
I think that writing down words for other people to read makes the writer vulnerable in some ways. The secrets are unveiled.
In writing, I have discovered things about myself that I had never known before. I am forced to have an opinion on issues that I would rather shove under the rug, but if they are important they have to be examined.
Know this, authors care about what you think of their writing. If something inspires you, please go through the effort to tell the writer that it meant something to you. A word of encouragement is sometimes the only thing that keeps writers writing.
Today I want you to hear what author, Eyvonna Rains has to say.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? Sleep, My Child by Eyvonna Rains
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I started a poetry club because I love to share my poems with others and hear what they have written, as well.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I started writing poetry and sharing it with people and got a lot of good feedback. I love when an idea for a poem or a story strikes me and I go into that dreamy world where nothing else exists and just write. It's euphoric.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My point of view is different. It may not be earth-shattering and brand new, but it's mine. I have learned that there is no one else just like me and I think that's great.
5. Are you a reader?
Absolutely! I love stories. You could say that I'm addicted.
6. What are you reading right now?
Till We Have Faces and Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis. The first is my favorite and I'm reading it to my husband because I want to share it with him.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have a book of Christian poetry and the story behind the poems. I hope to fill it with great photography to go with each one. I have finished a children's book tentatively titled, Color Makes Me Feel. It's about the psychology of color from a young perspective. (This idea came from my background in color consulting.) A Marriage Guide for the First Time Bride is a positive book full of advice from 'veteran married people' to a young bride from a Christian perspective. This is in response to a young engaged friend who was frightened by all of the bad things people kept telling her about marriage. She needed her positive friends with successful marriages to give her Godly advice. And there's more.......
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? My children!! My boys are 5 and 3 and keep me hopping! I write during naps, after they go to bed and any time that I have some quiet time and I don't need to nap!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) Sleep, My Child is a comforting picture book to encourage your child to drift into dreamland. The verses encourage imagination and the fantasy world of dreams. "When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet." Proverbs 3:24
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Sleep-My-Child-by-Eyvonna-Rains/217339737888?ref=ts
eyvonnarains@msn.com
Thursday, September 2, 2010
As Big As My Head! by Heidi A. Mark
Memory Lane
I love to scrapbook. The only problem with that is that when I go to the old pictures of my sons, I find myself going back to those long ago days.
I worked very hard trying to be a good mother, but I find myself thinking of my failures when I look at those dear little faces. They were all boy and I was wanting to be a perfect mother, housewife, friend, daughter...you name it.
I didn't learn to say the word "no" for a very long time. I thought that I owed everyone a hunk of my time if they asked for it. I am afraid my boys had a harried mother because of it.
I write this, not to do anything but to remind you to say "no" to the things that are optional. By that, I mean to realize that not everything is going to fall apart if you do not do it. (With the exception of caring for your small children and husband.)
Your kids will rise up and call you "blessed" if they recall that your were there for them, you were regular with meals (I raised boys you know.) and they had clean clothes/socks to wear. It seems all the other stuff is secondary.
Give yourself some credit and don't get all of your worth from things that you do. Be there. Be available. Be fully attentive. It is not all in what you are doing.
Today I want you to meet Heidi A. Mark, my author friend.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
As Big As My Head! by Heidi A. Mark
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I have been a teacher for 22 years and have loved every minute of teaching.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
When I was in high school. I have always been a reader of children's books. When I got into high school, I started writing poetry and keeping journals.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Because my books are for young children ages 4-10, my strongest points are my ability to rhyme and my humorous flow.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes. I work in the library at my school as the learning resource specialist and read books for younger readers as they are my favorite, but like many light topic fiction books.
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished The Lovely Bones.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have another book, but have not submitted it because I have not reached the 5000 number sold needed and do not have the money to have it published.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
rhyming and using a rhyming dictionary
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
As Big As My Head! is a true and humorous story about my son when he was in kindergarten trying to talk his grandma, my mom, into making huge chocolate chip cookies to take to school for his birthday snack. He gets his way and makes a HUGE treat all the kids love!
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
asbigasmyhead@verizon.net, Barnes and Noble, Borders, Targett and Tate Publishing websites, or on Facebook
I love to scrapbook. The only problem with that is that when I go to the old pictures of my sons, I find myself going back to those long ago days.
I worked very hard trying to be a good mother, but I find myself thinking of my failures when I look at those dear little faces. They were all boy and I was wanting to be a perfect mother, housewife, friend, daughter...you name it.
I didn't learn to say the word "no" for a very long time. I thought that I owed everyone a hunk of my time if they asked for it. I am afraid my boys had a harried mother because of it.
I write this, not to do anything but to remind you to say "no" to the things that are optional. By that, I mean to realize that not everything is going to fall apart if you do not do it. (With the exception of caring for your small children and husband.)
Your kids will rise up and call you "blessed" if they recall that your were there for them, you were regular with meals (I raised boys you know.) and they had clean clothes/socks to wear. It seems all the other stuff is secondary.
Give yourself some credit and don't get all of your worth from things that you do. Be there. Be available. Be fully attentive. It is not all in what you are doing.
Today I want you to meet Heidi A. Mark, my author friend.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
As Big As My Head! by Heidi A. Mark
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I have been a teacher for 22 years and have loved every minute of teaching.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
When I was in high school. I have always been a reader of children's books. When I got into high school, I started writing poetry and keeping journals.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Because my books are for young children ages 4-10, my strongest points are my ability to rhyme and my humorous flow.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes. I work in the library at my school as the learning resource specialist and read books for younger readers as they are my favorite, but like many light topic fiction books.
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished The Lovely Bones.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have another book, but have not submitted it because I have not reached the 5000 number sold needed and do not have the money to have it published.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
rhyming and using a rhyming dictionary
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
As Big As My Head! is a true and humorous story about my son when he was in kindergarten trying to talk his grandma, my mom, into making huge chocolate chip cookies to take to school for his birthday snack. He gets his way and makes a HUGE treat all the kids love!
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
asbigasmyhead@verizon.net, Barnes and Noble, Borders, Targett and Tate Publishing websites, or on Facebook