This week has been very exciting. Some of the copies of Luke's Legacy arrived at my house last week. They are already gone. I will be getting the rest soon. If you ordered a copy or so, they will be in the mail as soon as possible. I have been making labels and preparing boxes and manilla envelopes for the books to make the process go quickly.
If you didn't order a copy of Luke's Legacy, you are not too late! Just go to my website. (click here)Make sure you put your special instructions in the area indicated if you want it personalized to someone special.
I also have a shortstory I wrote last year, "A Job For Christmas", that you might enjoy reading. If you would like to pass this story around, feel free. I think the ending is a little unexpected. (Click here to get to my website and click on the short story tab on the left.)
This coming Saturday and Sunday, Nov 27 & 28th, I will be at Guymon, Oklahoma at the Fair Grounds for a craft show. I will be selling books. Come by and say 'hi' order or buy a book or two.
I have plenty of open dates if you would like to contact me to set something up.http://elainelittau.com/
I would like to introduce you to my author friend, Sally Unrau.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Sally Gilchrest-Unrau and my children's picture book is called ...Sam's Weird Afternoon.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I am a three time breast cancer survivor who began writing after my first diagnosis. After 25 years working in the field of Early Childhood Education....my writing turned from cancer related anticdotes to something more creative....children's stories.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
It was not until my story...Location, Location, Location...was published in Cup of Comfort for Breast Cancer Survivors that I thought seriouly about becoming a writer.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My strong points in all of my writing is my ability to include humor and with reality.
5. Are you a reader?
I am not an avid reader but I do belong to a local book club and read a book once every few months.
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have written many children's stories about Sam my character. They are mostly about normal events in a child's day that becomes weird.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacles to writing are my other passions...quilting and other forms of art. I just have to put them on the backburner when I am in a writing mood.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Sam's Weird Afternoon...my first children's book...was released on May 25th, 2010..It is about Sam...a young boy whose mom is always telling him what to do. This one day when he took off his shoes like mom asked, two new ones appeared on his feet...so he kicks them off and two more appear. The day becomes weird as his room fills with shoes until something magical occurs to make his day better.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
You can purchase my book on Amazon.com....Tate Publishing Ent...or from any local book store in your town.
You can contact me at......http://fatquarter.wordpress.com
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Judy Drewett, author of "Til the Cows Come Home"
November is a time for reflection. It is a time to think of all the people who have meant something in your life. I was reminded of this during Brad Paisley's speech when he won entertainer of the year at the CMAs. He quoted Little Jimmy Dickens as he said, "If you see a turtle on a fence post, he didn't get there by himself." Brad was holding back tears. I was too.
I know that being a small-time author doesn't compare to what the entertainer of the year has accomplished, but the thing he said is still true. I haven't sold one book without a reader who is interested in seeing what I have to say, purchasing a copy. By purchasing my books, recommending them, reviewing them on national websites, or sending an encouraging email or note, you have put this "turtle on the fence post." I am thankful to you.I appreciate you.
As you know, November is the National Novel Writing Month challenge. So far I have written 26,000+ words. The challenge is 50,000 words. The book is shaping up and I think you will like it. The first 6 chapters on on my website. Click here to read them. Go to the tab that says "Gertie". It is listed last on the left colum on the opening page of my website. (Remember it is very rough.)
This week I am interviewing Judy Drewett, author of "Til the Cows Come Home."
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
'Til the Cows Come Home, By Judy Perry Drewett
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I taught elementary school for 28 years and retired 3 years ago. My favorite thing was reading books to the children, which resulted in my strong desire to write children's books!
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I began writing poems when I was 13. I always wanted to write a book of poetry.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Highly imaginative style for young readers. Plan to write a rhyming book one day for K - 2nd grade.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes! Avid reader
6. What are you reading right now? O'Mallory Christian series by Dee Henderson
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes! It is about the same little boy, Thomas, who is in my first book, with a big imagination! Called "Be Careful What You Wish For"
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? Time and money. I spend a lot of my retired time visiting my mother in the nursing home. I have to make myself set aside a special block of time to write.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) "Thomas, you'd better get out of that bed and get dressed for school or you'll be lying there 'til the cows come home." Inspired by a kindergarten student's curiosity, Judy Perry Drewett, writes about a little boy with a vivid imagination. Follow Thomas and his imagination as he begins to see cows everywhere he goes. 'Til the Cows Come Home is a story to be enjoyed by young and old alike.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. My website: www.judyperrydrewett.com
My email: j_drewett@yahoo.com
Go to elainelittau.com
For Home School/Private School/Public School
I have placed Chapter 1 of Nan's Journey on my website along with a Lesson Plan and Reading Comprehension questions. http://elainelittau.com/ . I am working on completing the work of doing Lesson Plans and questions for all the books I write. The links are free. The books are on the accelerated reading list for Perryton Jr. High School. It is for readers 13 and up. If you are a teacher or parent who needs this, just log in the lesson plans and questions are free.
Between the Books Chapters
For new chapters "Between the Books" go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the tab. I plan to write a new chapter per week (If possible) until Luke's Legacy is in my hands. All the chapters written are available on the website.
I have plenty of open dates if you would like to contact me to set something up.http://elainelittau.com/
Need help with book sales and marketing? Go to my website and sign up for my coaching/consulting services. The first week is $5. Try it before you subscribe by by the month. Go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the coaching tab for more information.
I have begun a new blog that features books for sale from some of the authors I have interviewed. Please take time to look at it.
http://titlesforsale.blogspot.com/
Book III, Luke's Legacy will be in my hands in a couple of weeks.The retail price is listed at $16.99. I am selling them for $15.+ postage.
Nan in the hand made dresses ($8).
The Nan Doll in Overalls ($6)
She is 6 3/4" tall. I hand sew the clothes. Each doll is unique.
I sell them for $10 (Now $8 in the hand sewn dress and $6 in the overalls) + postage or I give one with thepurchase of 5 or more books.
For those of you who haven't read the interview that I recently did, click on this link:
Interview with Elaine Littau [laineygirl] in Whohub
Source: www.whohub.com
Click Here for 3 old fashioned recipes available for free and 50 marketing tips
for first time authors.These are ideas that I have gleaned from books and the Internet...some from my own mind. I have tried all of them and they workand are inexpensive, unless I note otherwise. I will happily send these to anyone who asks for them.
The book trailer, recipes, photos, and freebies can all be found on the website also.
Nan's Journey, Book I of the Nan's Heritage Series
Elk's Resolve, Book II of the Nan's Heritage Series
Both books for a special price of $26+postage
Both books & Nan Doll for a special price of $35+ postage (a $10 savings)
Please tell everyone about Nan's Journey, Elk's Resolve, and Luke's Legacy. You will never know how much that means to me!
I know that being a small-time author doesn't compare to what the entertainer of the year has accomplished, but the thing he said is still true. I haven't sold one book without a reader who is interested in seeing what I have to say, purchasing a copy. By purchasing my books, recommending them, reviewing them on national websites, or sending an encouraging email or note, you have put this "turtle on the fence post." I am thankful to you.I appreciate you.
As you know, November is the National Novel Writing Month challenge. So far I have written 26,000+ words. The challenge is 50,000 words. The book is shaping up and I think you will like it. The first 6 chapters on on my website. Click here to read them. Go to the tab that says "Gertie". It is listed last on the left colum on the opening page of my website. (Remember it is very rough.)
This week I am interviewing Judy Drewett, author of "Til the Cows Come Home."
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
'Til the Cows Come Home, By Judy Perry Drewett
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I taught elementary school for 28 years and retired 3 years ago. My favorite thing was reading books to the children, which resulted in my strong desire to write children's books!
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I began writing poems when I was 13. I always wanted to write a book of poetry.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Highly imaginative style for young readers. Plan to write a rhyming book one day for K - 2nd grade.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes! Avid reader
6. What are you reading right now? O'Mallory Christian series by Dee Henderson
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes! It is about the same little boy, Thomas, who is in my first book, with a big imagination! Called "Be Careful What You Wish For"
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? Time and money. I spend a lot of my retired time visiting my mother in the nursing home. I have to make myself set aside a special block of time to write.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) "Thomas, you'd better get out of that bed and get dressed for school or you'll be lying there 'til the cows come home." Inspired by a kindergarten student's curiosity, Judy Perry Drewett, writes about a little boy with a vivid imagination. Follow Thomas and his imagination as he begins to see cows everywhere he goes. 'Til the Cows Come Home is a story to be enjoyed by young and old alike.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. My website: www.judyperrydrewett.com
My email: j_drewett@yahoo.com
Go to elainelittau.com
For Home School/Private School/Public School
I have placed Chapter 1 of Nan's Journey on my website along with a Lesson Plan and Reading Comprehension questions. http://elainelittau.com/ . I am working on completing the work of doing Lesson Plans and questions for all the books I write. The links are free. The books are on the accelerated reading list for Perryton Jr. High School. It is for readers 13 and up. If you are a teacher or parent who needs this, just log in the lesson plans and questions are free.
Between the Books Chapters
For new chapters "Between the Books" go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the tab. I plan to write a new chapter per week (If possible) until Luke's Legacy is in my hands. All the chapters written are available on the website.
I have plenty of open dates if you would like to contact me to set something up.http://elainelittau.com/
Need help with book sales and marketing? Go to my website and sign up for my coaching/consulting services. The first week is $5. Try it before you subscribe by by the month. Go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the coaching tab for more information.
I have begun a new blog that features books for sale from some of the authors I have interviewed. Please take time to look at it.
http://titlesforsale.blogspot.com/
Book III, Luke's Legacy will be in my hands in a couple of weeks.The retail price is listed at $16.99. I am selling them for $15.+ postage.
Nan in the hand made dresses ($8).
The Nan Doll in Overalls ($6)
She is 6 3/4" tall. I hand sew the clothes. Each doll is unique.
I sell them for $10 (Now $8 in the hand sewn dress and $6 in the overalls) + postage or I give one with thepurchase of 5 or more books.
For those of you who haven't read the interview that I recently did, click on this link:
Interview with Elaine Littau [laineygirl] in Whohub
Source: www.whohub.com
Click Here for 3 old fashioned recipes available for free and 50 marketing tips
for first time authors.These are ideas that I have gleaned from books and the Internet...some from my own mind. I have tried all of them and they workand are inexpensive, unless I note otherwise. I will happily send these to anyone who asks for them.
The book trailer, recipes, photos, and freebies can all be found on the website also.
Nan's Journey, Book I of the Nan's Heritage Series
Elk's Resolve, Book II of the Nan's Heritage Series
Both books for a special price of $26+postage
Both books & Nan Doll for a special price of $35+ postage (a $10 savings)
Please tell everyone about Nan's Journey, Elk's Resolve, and Luke's Legacy. You will never know how much that means to me!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Jen Scott, Angels at Large
Balancing Act
Today I got my bank statement and I need to make sure that it balances out. It reminds me of the end of the year when I evaluate all the places that the money goes. You can really see what your priorities are when you look at your check book.
I am happy that, for the most part, Terry and I are committed to the same goals. We are striving to get out of debt within our lifetime. After reevaluating my checkbook I know that that is something we need to stay committed to.
I would like for you to meet fellow author. Jen Scott.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? Angels at Large
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you? I'm a huge animal lover and enjoy putting a smile on the hearts of children and adults.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer? In 1988
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods? Making it easy reading for children.
5. Are you a reader? Yes
6. What are you reading right now? Nothing at the time, my husband is ill, so I guess it would be the Bible.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it. Yes, several in the process. My next book will be about two orphan children who lost their parents in a car accident, they buy a lottery ticket and win. The problem is finding the homeless person who helped them buy it.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? My only obstacle is having enough time to do it. I have a beautiful garden that I need to tend to and a farm full of animals that need my attention. I love that! I love them!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Author Janet Lee Scott recently relocated to the Ozarks of Missouri and thrives on her love for people and animals. She has been writing stories since 1988 and has so much to share with the world and feels that the first approach to helping is seeking out the youth by spreading the word of kindness that helps others, both animals and people..
She’s an accomplished steel artist and painter who deals with original hand drawings, hand cuts and welds her own art work. Janet has an imagination that keeps her up sometimes at night with story ideas and has taken a giant leap to help others with her treasures she writes. Her heart is filled with God and has a true eternal beauty in her stories
Right now she’s offering this great story, Angels at Large. A contagious book of kindness!Coming soon are Bugger Bear, Taco’s Journey, Root People, nine dollars and Ninety Days, and Who Decides.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. Here is the link for ordering: http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-60696-361-6
Recent reviews:
#1Dr Rick with petMD:After reading Angels at Large, we were sure author Janet Lee Scott had just written one of the best nursery books ever published. Perfect for a child, grandchild, niece or nephew, Angels at Large is full of adventures and good deeds. It leads the main characters, Margaret and Monet, not only to a happy ending but to the betterment of the lives of all the people and animals they touch along the way. From New York City to an African Desert to the shores of Newfoundland, our heroes travel the world (with the help of their angel guides) and bring a little joy, peace, and comfort to all they meet.
A story of faith, perseverance, and, above all else, proof that the road to heaven can also be paved with good intentions. How lovingly Haute!
In addition to being a writer, Janet is also an accomplished steel artist who draws, hand cuts, and welds her own artwork. Now that's industrially Haute!
#2I just finished "Angels at Large" and let me tell you it was awesome! It is a perfect story that someone of any age can appreciate. I couldn't put it down. I just had to know where Monet and Margaret were going to go next and what they were going to do. I laughed and cried. The elephant part in Africa was my favorite! I could really picture it happening. The whole story was so well detailed I could really picture it in my head and see it all unfolding. You are very very talented. I most definitely am going to suggest this to friends! When you publish your next book please inform me. I would love to read it. The whole story really made me wonder if my pets who have passed are watching me. I sure hope so :)Thanks for entertaining me for the night,Andrea--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Andrea Harless
Public Relations Intern, Angels For Animals, Canfield, OH
#3Janet ... I've just finished the book!! It is absolutely wonderful - thoroughly enjoyed it and confess to having a few little tears in places. Let me know when your next book comes out. XXThank you!Gai McNeill
This month:
Luke's Legacy is on it's way!
I am participating in the NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) The book I am writing in the month of November is Gertie. I have the first 6 chapters on my website. Click here to arrive at the web address. On the left side of the page is a list of all the free things and other options I have to offer on my website. Gertie is the last item on the list. It is a very rough and quickly written draft. If you are interested in reading the direction I am taking the Nan's Heritage Series, read it. Let me know what you think. It will be Book V and the last of the Series.
I am excited to introduce the next series, The Chosen Ones, coming in the future.
I have events coming Nov 13 & 14 at Levelland, TX; Nov 20&21 at Perryton, TX; An event in Woodward, OK coming soon. (I will get the details to you asap); Dec 4 at Bryan's Corner, OK, Dec 11 at Hinton, OK, Dec 18 in Oklahoma City at the Full Circle Book store. Terry will be recording the audio version of Luke's Legacy on Jan 12 & 13. We will be busy and on the road. Please pray for us.
Today I got my bank statement and I need to make sure that it balances out. It reminds me of the end of the year when I evaluate all the places that the money goes. You can really see what your priorities are when you look at your check book.
I am happy that, for the most part, Terry and I are committed to the same goals. We are striving to get out of debt within our lifetime. After reevaluating my checkbook I know that that is something we need to stay committed to.
I would like for you to meet fellow author. Jen Scott.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? Angels at Large
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you? I'm a huge animal lover and enjoy putting a smile on the hearts of children and adults.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer? In 1988
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods? Making it easy reading for children.
5. Are you a reader? Yes
6. What are you reading right now? Nothing at the time, my husband is ill, so I guess it would be the Bible.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it. Yes, several in the process. My next book will be about two orphan children who lost their parents in a car accident, they buy a lottery ticket and win. The problem is finding the homeless person who helped them buy it.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? My only obstacle is having enough time to do it. I have a beautiful garden that I need to tend to and a farm full of animals that need my attention. I love that! I love them!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Author Janet Lee Scott recently relocated to the Ozarks of Missouri and thrives on her love for people and animals. She has been writing stories since 1988 and has so much to share with the world and feels that the first approach to helping is seeking out the youth by spreading the word of kindness that helps others, both animals and people..
She’s an accomplished steel artist and painter who deals with original hand drawings, hand cuts and welds her own art work. Janet has an imagination that keeps her up sometimes at night with story ideas and has taken a giant leap to help others with her treasures she writes. Her heart is filled with God and has a true eternal beauty in her stories
Right now she’s offering this great story, Angels at Large. A contagious book of kindness!Coming soon are Bugger Bear, Taco’s Journey, Root People, nine dollars and Ninety Days, and Who Decides.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. Here is the link for ordering: http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-60696-361-6
Recent reviews:
#1Dr Rick with petMD:After reading Angels at Large, we were sure author Janet Lee Scott had just written one of the best nursery books ever published. Perfect for a child, grandchild, niece or nephew, Angels at Large is full of adventures and good deeds. It leads the main characters, Margaret and Monet, not only to a happy ending but to the betterment of the lives of all the people and animals they touch along the way. From New York City to an African Desert to the shores of Newfoundland, our heroes travel the world (with the help of their angel guides) and bring a little joy, peace, and comfort to all they meet.
A story of faith, perseverance, and, above all else, proof that the road to heaven can also be paved with good intentions. How lovingly Haute!
In addition to being a writer, Janet is also an accomplished steel artist who draws, hand cuts, and welds her own artwork. Now that's industrially Haute!
#2I just finished "Angels at Large" and let me tell you it was awesome! It is a perfect story that someone of any age can appreciate. I couldn't put it down. I just had to know where Monet and Margaret were going to go next and what they were going to do. I laughed and cried. The elephant part in Africa was my favorite! I could really picture it happening. The whole story was so well detailed I could really picture it in my head and see it all unfolding. You are very very talented. I most definitely am going to suggest this to friends! When you publish your next book please inform me. I would love to read it. The whole story really made me wonder if my pets who have passed are watching me. I sure hope so :)Thanks for entertaining me for the night,Andrea--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Andrea Harless
Public Relations Intern, Angels For Animals, Canfield, OH
#3Janet ... I've just finished the book!! It is absolutely wonderful - thoroughly enjoyed it and confess to having a few little tears in places. Let me know when your next book comes out. XXThank you!Gai McNeill
This month:
Luke's Legacy is on it's way!
I am participating in the NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) The book I am writing in the month of November is Gertie. I have the first 6 chapters on my website. Click here to arrive at the web address. On the left side of the page is a list of all the free things and other options I have to offer on my website. Gertie is the last item on the list. It is a very rough and quickly written draft. If you are interested in reading the direction I am taking the Nan's Heritage Series, read it. Let me know what you think. It will be Book V and the last of the Series.
I am excited to introduce the next series, The Chosen Ones, coming in the future.
I have events coming Nov 13 & 14 at Levelland, TX; Nov 20&21 at Perryton, TX; An event in Woodward, OK coming soon. (I will get the details to you asap); Dec 4 at Bryan's Corner, OK, Dec 11 at Hinton, OK, Dec 18 in Oklahoma City at the Full Circle Book store. Terry will be recording the audio version of Luke's Legacy on Jan 12 & 13. We will be busy and on the road. Please pray for us.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
5 more tips for promoting/marketing your books
This week I am going to put all 5 tips under the heading of speaking engagements. As you know, the privilege to speak to any group is a great opportunity to let people know you better and understand the inspiration for writing your book. If people can catch your heart, they will want your book. These are some of the things you need to think about before you send out your information to groups.
contact. Start with the largest denominator and work down.
5. Do you have author friends who can "team speak" with you to share expenses?
6. Bonus: Make a video of your speech and use it in your press kit...We will talk about them next week.
- How far are you willing to travel or can you travel and make a profit? You need to think about gas, hotel, food, and other things.
- Who are you wanting to speak to?
- Women's groups
- Couples
- MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
- Bible Study groups
- Other
contact. Start with the largest denominator and work down.
- organization name
- contact name
- address
- city
- state
- zip
- denomination
- phone
- fax
- website
- notes
- Start with their broadest website then church website and mail regularly.
5. Do you have author friends who can "team speak" with you to share expenses?
6. Bonus: Make a video of your speech and use it in your press kit...We will talk about them next week.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Shari England, Lessons From the Sticker Patch
Be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the page for my interview with Shari England.
November is National Novel Writing Month. (NaNoWriMo for short) During this month anyone who has the desire to meet the challenge that the NaNoWri Mo people have set before them are to write a novel of at least 50,000 words within the month. Beginning November 1 through November 30 people or all walks of life are writing their fingers to the bone. What do the writers who accomplish this feat receive?
The accomplishment of writing a novel.
a badge for their website
and a few other things.
I have decided to do this, so I have posted the first 6 chapters of Book #5 on my website. Click here to read the first of the book "Gertie ". On the left hand of the opening page of my website, there is a list of the pages offered. Gertie is the last on the list. Click on that and you will get into the story. Write me an email by clicking here and let me know what you think. I will be writing more every day this month to attempt to meet this challenge.
For Home School/Private School/Public School
I have placed Chapter 1 of Nan's Journey on my website along with a Lesson Plan and Reading Comprehension questions. http://elainelittau.com
I am working on completing the work of doing Lesson Plans and questions for all the books I write. The links are free. The books are on the accelerated reading list for Perryton Jr. High School. It is for readers 13 and up. If you are a teacher or parent who needs this, just log in the lesson plans and questions are free.
Between the Books Chapters
For new chapters "Between the Books" go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the tab. I plan to write a new chapter per week (If possible) until Luke's Legacy is in my hands. All the chapters written are available on the website.
I have a few open dates if you would like to contact me to set something up.
http://elainelittau.com/
Need help with book sales and marketing?
Go to my website and sign up for my coaching/consulting services. The first week is $5.
Try it before you subscribe by the month. Go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the coaching tab for more information.
I have begun a new blog that features books for sale for some of the authors I have interviewed. Please take time to look at it. http://titlesforsale.blogspot.com
Book III, Luke's Legacy will be in my hands in a couple of weeks.
If you want to take advantage of special pricing for pre sale click on the button. The special price is $11. That is a big reduction from the cover price when it comes out.
Nan in the hand made dresses are on sale for $10.
The Nan Doll in Overalls are on sale for $8.
I was at my sister's house one day and noticed a cute little doll she had. It was Anne Shirley from the Anne of Green Gables Book series. I searched the Internet for a simple doll to buy wholesale to sell as a Nan doll. I didn't have much luck with it until one of my author friends pointed me to a website that had one of the cutest little dolls I have ever seen.
She is 6 3/4" tall. I hand sew the clothes. Each doll is unique.I sell them for
$10 + postage or I give one with the purchase of 5 or more books.
For those of you who haven't read the interview that I recently did, click on this link:Interview with Elaine Littau [laineygirl] in Whohub Source: http://www.whohub.com/
Click Here for 3 old fashioned recipes available for free.
and
50 marketing tips for first time authors.
These are ideas that I have gleaned from books and the Internet...some from my own mind. I have tried all of them and they work and are inexpensive, unless I note otherwise. I will happily send these to anyone who asks for them.
The book trailer, recipes, photos, and freebies can all be found on the website also.
Book I of the Nan's Heritage Series is Nan's Journey.
Book II of the Nan's Heritage Series is Elk's Resolve
Book III of the Nan's Heritage Series is Luke's Legacy (in my hands soon)
Book IV of the Nan's Heritage Series is Timothy's Home. (almost ready to submit)
Book V of the Nan's Heritage Series is Gertie. (The title has not been decided.)
The Next Series will be called something like "The Chosen Ones". It will be about each of the young girls who were rescued by Fred, Elk, and Ted in "Elk's Resolve". I can hardly wait to get started. My plans are to release a new book each year. (maybe 2 if at all possible) If you would like to sign up to my Book Pre-Order Club, click here and leave me an email. The book club is for those who want to get a $5 discount on pre-ordered books. These would be future books by Elaine Littau. You do not pay before the books are available. You are simply signing up to be on the list for upcoming books as a pre-order club member
Titles
I have been making videos of the book covers of the authors who contact me. I am amazed by the titles that they have come up with. My titles are a little tame next to some of them.
I have to tell you something kind of funny about figuring out how to name Book #4.
Book #1 is Nan's Journey
Book #2 is Elk's Resolve
Book #3 is Luke's Legacy
Book #4 was going to be Thomas' _____
Then I decided that I might have trouble saying the title in speeches that I give. I decided that I needed to change the name of the main character based on this fact. I renamed him Timothy so the title will be...Timothy's Home
Today I want to introduce you to Shari England, author.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Shari England - Lessons from the Sticker Patch
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I have received new life both physically and spiritually. Physically through the accidental death of my donor giving me a new liver nine years ago, and spiritually through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ over 2000 years ago.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I took a creative writing class my senior year of high school and won a college scholarship in a writing contest, but even then, did not know of the gift that lay inside me. It took nearly 20 years for it to come full circle in order to be transformed into that for which God designed it.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I love creativity and I feel I am able to generate meaning through the most inanimate objects, and to parallel them with the profound. I gather ideas from the most mundane situations or conversations. I also love rhythm and movement in words and love words that dance. People often tell me my writing is "smooth" and easy to read.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes, I love to read, though I did not like to in my early years. I never get books from public libraries. I prefer to buy my books so I can mark them up, and return to them often. I need more shelves.
6. What are you reading right now?
It's hard for me to have only book going at a time. Besides the Bible, I am reading a couple devotionals by other new authors, plus a book on marketing, and Phillip Yancey's "The Jesus I Never Knew". I just finished a wonderful book called "Things Forgotten" by Thomas N. Tabback. Fabulous fictional read.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have two books in progress now. One is a continuation of the first book. The other is a book targeted more as a ministry to women, young and old, using one of the stories in my first book as the foundation. I plan to use my own experiences, and combine them with the experiences of others through personal interviews with women who have come through their own issues and struggles victoriously through Christ.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Patience! My perfectionism comes out in things like dwelling too much on one thought or item and it burns up precious time. I've had to work at writing quickly, even if it's very messy and disorderly at first. Just write! Then put it to bed until later, sometimes much later, weeks or even months, and then resurrect it in its proper time.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Lessons from the Sticker Patch (published) is a compilation of short stories of inspiration and encouragement through the creative combination of real life and real faith. The author's vivid accounts from childhood through parenthood will cause you to revisit wonderful memories of your own, while laying a foundation of truth and wisdom found only in God's Word. Whether it's a ballerina in an old jewelry box, a message in a jar of peanut butter, a child lost in a grocery store, or an aluminum Christmas tree, there's a lesson to be learned in all of life's occurrences about God's unfailing love and faithfulness.
More Lessons from the Sticker Patch (not published) - the same
Ballerina in a Box - (not published) - I was six years old when I received a pink jewelry box as a birthday gift. Upon opening the lid, I found a tiny tutu-clad ballet dancer poised at center stage. She exhibited such beauty, elegance, and grace. Balancing faultlessly on one toe, she spun gracefully to the dainty twinkling tune of the "Ballerina" melody. Occasionally hanging up on a single note, she quickly regained her position to continue her magnificent performance. At least that was until someone or something closed the lid... Discover through personal reflections of women of all ages how God takes our hurts, hang ups, and habits, and transforms them into a thing of beauty, poised in the center of His will for a magnificent endless performance of His glory at work in the lives of women--at work in you.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://stickerpatch.tatepublishing.net/
http://www.shariengland.blogspot.com/
November is National Novel Writing Month. (NaNoWriMo for short) During this month anyone who has the desire to meet the challenge that the NaNoWri Mo people have set before them are to write a novel of at least 50,000 words within the month. Beginning November 1 through November 30 people or all walks of life are writing their fingers to the bone. What do the writers who accomplish this feat receive?
The accomplishment of writing a novel.
a badge for their website
and a few other things.
I have decided to do this, so I have posted the first 6 chapters of Book #5 on my website. Click here to read the first of the book "Gertie ". On the left hand of the opening page of my website, there is a list of the pages offered. Gertie is the last on the list. Click on that and you will get into the story. Write me an email by clicking here and let me know what you think. I will be writing more every day this month to attempt to meet this challenge.
For Home School/Private School/Public School
I have placed Chapter 1 of Nan's Journey on my website along with a Lesson Plan and Reading Comprehension questions. http://elainelittau.com
I am working on completing the work of doing Lesson Plans and questions for all the books I write. The links are free. The books are on the accelerated reading list for Perryton Jr. High School. It is for readers 13 and up. If you are a teacher or parent who needs this, just log in the lesson plans and questions are free.
Between the Books Chapters
For new chapters "Between the Books" go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the tab. I plan to write a new chapter per week (If possible) until Luke's Legacy is in my hands. All the chapters written are available on the website.
I have a few open dates if you would like to contact me to set something up.
http://elainelittau.com/
Need help with book sales and marketing?
Go to my website and sign up for my coaching/consulting services. The first week is $5.
Try it before you subscribe by the month. Go to http://elainelittau.com and click on the coaching tab for more information.
I have begun a new blog that features books for sale for some of the authors I have interviewed. Please take time to look at it. http://titlesforsale.blogspot.com
Book III, Luke's Legacy will be in my hands in a couple of weeks.
If you want to take advantage of special pricing for pre sale click on the button. The special price is $11. That is a big reduction from the cover price when it comes out.
Nan in the hand made dresses are on sale for $10.
The Nan Doll in Overalls are on sale for $8.
I was at my sister's house one day and noticed a cute little doll she had. It was Anne Shirley from the Anne of Green Gables Book series. I searched the Internet for a simple doll to buy wholesale to sell as a Nan doll. I didn't have much luck with it until one of my author friends pointed me to a website that had one of the cutest little dolls I have ever seen.
She is 6 3/4" tall. I hand sew the clothes. Each doll is unique.I sell them for
$10 + postage or I give one with the purchase of 5 or more books.
For those of you who haven't read the interview that I recently did, click on this link:Interview with Elaine Littau [laineygirl] in Whohub Source: http://www.whohub.com/
Click Here for 3 old fashioned recipes available for free.
and
50 marketing tips for first time authors.
These are ideas that I have gleaned from books and the Internet...some from my own mind. I have tried all of them and they work and are inexpensive, unless I note otherwise. I will happily send these to anyone who asks for them.
The book trailer, recipes, photos, and freebies can all be found on the website also.
Book I of the Nan's Heritage Series is Nan's Journey.
Book II of the Nan's Heritage Series is Elk's Resolve
Book III of the Nan's Heritage Series is Luke's Legacy (in my hands soon)
Book IV of the Nan's Heritage Series is Timothy's Home. (almost ready to submit)
Book V of the Nan's Heritage Series is Gertie. (The title has not been decided.)
The Next Series will be called something like "The Chosen Ones". It will be about each of the young girls who were rescued by Fred, Elk, and Ted in "Elk's Resolve". I can hardly wait to get started. My plans are to release a new book each year. (maybe 2 if at all possible) If you would like to sign up to my Book Pre-Order Club, click here and leave me an email. The book club is for those who want to get a $5 discount on pre-ordered books. These would be future books by Elaine Littau. You do not pay before the books are available. You are simply signing up to be on the list for upcoming books as a pre-order club member
Titles
I have been making videos of the book covers of the authors who contact me. I am amazed by the titles that they have come up with. My titles are a little tame next to some of them.
I have to tell you something kind of funny about figuring out how to name Book #4.
Book #1 is Nan's Journey
Book #2 is Elk's Resolve
Book #3 is Luke's Legacy
Book #4 was going to be Thomas' _____
Then I decided that I might have trouble saying the title in speeches that I give. I decided that I needed to change the name of the main character based on this fact. I renamed him Timothy so the title will be...Timothy's Home
Today I want to introduce you to Shari England, author.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Shari England - Lessons from the Sticker Patch
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I have received new life both physically and spiritually. Physically through the accidental death of my donor giving me a new liver nine years ago, and spiritually through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ over 2000 years ago.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I took a creative writing class my senior year of high school and won a college scholarship in a writing contest, but even then, did not know of the gift that lay inside me. It took nearly 20 years for it to come full circle in order to be transformed into that for which God designed it.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I love creativity and I feel I am able to generate meaning through the most inanimate objects, and to parallel them with the profound. I gather ideas from the most mundane situations or conversations. I also love rhythm and movement in words and love words that dance. People often tell me my writing is "smooth" and easy to read.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes, I love to read, though I did not like to in my early years. I never get books from public libraries. I prefer to buy my books so I can mark them up, and return to them often. I need more shelves.
6. What are you reading right now?
It's hard for me to have only book going at a time. Besides the Bible, I am reading a couple devotionals by other new authors, plus a book on marketing, and Phillip Yancey's "The Jesus I Never Knew". I just finished a wonderful book called "Things Forgotten" by Thomas N. Tabback. Fabulous fictional read.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have two books in progress now. One is a continuation of the first book. The other is a book targeted more as a ministry to women, young and old, using one of the stories in my first book as the foundation. I plan to use my own experiences, and combine them with the experiences of others through personal interviews with women who have come through their own issues and struggles victoriously through Christ.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Patience! My perfectionism comes out in things like dwelling too much on one thought or item and it burns up precious time. I've had to work at writing quickly, even if it's very messy and disorderly at first. Just write! Then put it to bed until later, sometimes much later, weeks or even months, and then resurrect it in its proper time.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Lessons from the Sticker Patch (published) is a compilation of short stories of inspiration and encouragement through the creative combination of real life and real faith. The author's vivid accounts from childhood through parenthood will cause you to revisit wonderful memories of your own, while laying a foundation of truth and wisdom found only in God's Word. Whether it's a ballerina in an old jewelry box, a message in a jar of peanut butter, a child lost in a grocery store, or an aluminum Christmas tree, there's a lesson to be learned in all of life's occurrences about God's unfailing love and faithfulness.
More Lessons from the Sticker Patch (not published) - the same
Ballerina in a Box - (not published) - I was six years old when I received a pink jewelry box as a birthday gift. Upon opening the lid, I found a tiny tutu-clad ballet dancer poised at center stage. She exhibited such beauty, elegance, and grace. Balancing faultlessly on one toe, she spun gracefully to the dainty twinkling tune of the "Ballerina" melody. Occasionally hanging up on a single note, she quickly regained her position to continue her magnificent performance. At least that was until someone or something closed the lid... Discover through personal reflections of women of all ages how God takes our hurts, hang ups, and habits, and transforms them into a thing of beauty, poised in the center of His will for a magnificent endless performance of His glory at work in the lives of women--at work in you.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://stickerpatch.tatepublishing.net/
http://www.shariengland.blogspot.com/
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Today's Wild Card author is:
and the book:
100 Ways to Simplify Your Life
Publisher: FaithWords; Lrg edition (November 12, 2008)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
JOYCE MEYER is one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers. A #1 New York Times bestselling author, she has written more than seventy inspirational books, including The Confident Woman, Look Great, Feel Great, and the entire Battlefield of the Mindfamily of books. She has also released thousands of audio teachings as well as a complete video library. Joyce's Enjoying Everyday Life® radio and television programs are broadcast around the world, and she travels extensively conducting conferences. Joyce and her husband, Dave, are the parents of four grown children and make their home in St. Louis, Missouri.Visit the author's website.
Product Details:
List Price: $16.99
Paperback: 240 pages
Publisher: FaithWords; Lrg edition (November 12, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446509396
ISBN-13: 978-0446509398
AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:
Introduction
Everyone has them: those days where nothing seems to get done, except maybe what you’ve added to your already lengthy to-do list. Are you tired most of the time? Are you spent? Do you find yourself wish- ing for a better day—a simpler day? Too many things compete for your limited resources of attention, energy, and time. You may be suffocat- ing and not even know it. If you feel like this, you’re not alone.
Most people today live complicated lives that leave them frustrated and confused, weary and worn out. But I have good news: your life does not have to be that way. You can choose a life of simplicity, fruitfulness, fulfillment, peace, and joy. I want to warn you, however, unless you are determined not to, you will do what everyone else does. You will get sucked up in the system and spend your life wishing things were different, never realizing you are, in fact, the only one who can change things. Unless we are resolute and remain undaunted in our quest for simplicity, we are destined for complication and frustration.
I recall a time when I was complaining to God about my schedule being absolutely insane. How could anyone be expected to do all I had in front of me? Then the realization hit me that I was the one who made my schedule and nobody could change it but me. You can spend your lives wishing things were different, but wishing won’t change anything. Smart decision making and decisive action is what changes things. If you picked up this book looking for change, are you willing to make a decision and follow it up with action?
I wasted many years hoping life would change and things would calm down until I finally realized life itself doesn’t change; in fact, it has the potential to get worse. I understood my only real option was to change my approach to life. I had to say no to another day of rushing around and feeling frustrated. I didn’t want the doctor giving me another pre- scription to mask another symptom of the real problem—stress.
In my search for simplicity, I have come to believe life can never be simple unless I learn to approach all things simply. It is my attitude toward each event in life that determines how easy or complex each situation will be. Perhaps life is complicated because people are compli- cated. Is it possible that life is not complicated, but rather, individuals complicate life in the way they approach it?
I discovered it wasn’t really life or circumstances or other people as much as it was me that needed to change. My problem wasn’t the problem—I was the problem! When you spend your life in frustration trying to change the world and everyone in it, you fail to realize it could be you just need to change your approach to life. It can be very easy for someone to live an entire lifetime and never entertain the notion that the way they do things is the real problem.
Have you ever attempted to have friends over for what you initially intended to be a simple afternoon of food, fellowship, and fun, but somehow, it turned into a complicated nightmare? I remember those days vividly. I’d be at church on Sunday and, without much forethought, invite three couples over for the following Sunday to a barbecue. My initial thought was hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, baked beans, potato chips, and iced tea. My motive was fellowship and fun, but by the time the guests arrived, I didn’t even want them there. Fun was not going to happen, at least not for me. Why? I turned my simple get- together into a nightmare of preparation, expensive food, and fourteen people instead of the original six. My complicated approach to life and my complicated thought process convinced me hot dogs and hamburg- ers weren’t nice enough so I bought steaks we could not afford. My potato chips turned into a huge bowl of homemade potato salad. The simple baked beans became four side dishes I labored over.
Insecure and wanting to impress everyone, I had to spend the week cleaning and getting everything in the house to the point where I thought it would be impressive. Of course, the lawn chairs were old, so I bought new ones. I got angry at Dave because I thought he wasn’t help- ing me enough, and by the time our friends arrived, I resented them, wished they hadn’t come, and had a miserable day of pretending to be the happy hostess when in reality I was frustrated and miserable.
I could not figure out why I wasn’t able to enjoy much of anything in life until God revealed to me I was killing my joy with complication. For years, I prayed God would change the people and circumstances around me when, in reality, He wanted to change me and my approach to life. He wanted me to simplify so, ultimately, He could be glorified.
Let me share with you 100 ways to approach living that can simplify your life and, in turn, release and increase your joy. I believe they will dramatically improve the quality of your everyday experience if you incorporate them into the way you do things. Jesus said He came so we might have and enjoy our life in abundance (see John 10:10). His prin- ciples are simple. Faith is simple! Trusting God is simple! A childlike approach to Him is simple! The plan of salvation is simple!
Jesus offers us a “new way of living,” and I believe it is a simple, yet powerful way that enables us to enjoy everyday life. Are you ready to simplify your life? Are you ready to say good-bye to the complexities you’ve allowed to take over? Let’s get started.
Do One Thing at a Time
When we do things without truly focusing our minds on them, we immediately decrease our strength to do the work before us and do it well. By putting our hands to one thing and our mind to another, we divide the muscle behind our abilities and we make the task much more difficult. It’s like removing an egg yolk from the egg white—both can be used separately but the result isn’t as effective (or tasty) as it would be if we leave the egg whole. However, by directing all of our faculties to the one thing we are doing on a particular day, at that hour, at that moment, we find it much easier to do. The ability to concentrate and stay focused can only come from discipline.
The apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:6 to be anxious for nothing. Anxious people are always trying to live ahead of where they currently are. They spend today trying to figure out tomorrow and the result is the loss of simplicity. God expects us to trust Him with tomorrow just as He instructed the Israelites to do when they crossed the barren wil- derness, pressing toward the Promised Land.
Practice living one day at a time; give yourself—your thoughts, your conversation, your energies, every part of you—to the day at hand.
100 Ways to Simplify Your Life
1. Develop an ability to give yourself to what you are doing. You will sense an awareness enabling you to enjoy the current activity, instead of going through each day in a blur of activity and confusing thoughts which leave you drained and exhausted.
Do you fear you will not accomplish as much if you try to live this way? It’s true you may not do as much, but you will also enjoy what you do a whole lot more. One key to simplicity is realizing that quality is far superior to quantity.
Everyone has them: those days where nothing seems to get done, except maybe what you’ve added to your already lengthy to-do list. Are you tired most of the time? Are you spent? Do you find yourself wish- ing for a better day—a simpler day? Too many things compete for your limited resources of attention, energy, and time. You may be suffocat- ing and not even know it. If you feel like this, you’re not alone.
Most people today live complicated lives that leave them frustrated and confused, weary and worn out. But I have good news: your life does not have to be that way. You can choose a life of simplicity, fruitfulness, fulfillment, peace, and joy. I want to warn you, however, unless you are determined not to, you will do what everyone else does. You will get sucked up in the system and spend your life wishing things were different, never realizing you are, in fact, the only one who can change things. Unless we are resolute and remain undaunted in our quest for simplicity, we are destined for complication and frustration.
I recall a time when I was complaining to God about my schedule being absolutely insane. How could anyone be expected to do all I had in front of me? Then the realization hit me that I was the one who made my schedule and nobody could change it but me. You can spend your lives wishing things were different, but wishing won’t change anything. Smart decision making and decisive action is what changes things. If you picked up this book looking for change, are you willing to make a decision and follow it up with action?
I wasted many years hoping life would change and things would calm down until I finally realized life itself doesn’t change; in fact, it has the potential to get worse. I understood my only real option was to change my approach to life. I had to say no to another day of rushing around and feeling frustrated. I didn’t want the doctor giving me another pre- scription to mask another symptom of the real problem—stress.
In my search for simplicity, I have come to believe life can never be simple unless I learn to approach all things simply. It is my attitude toward each event in life that determines how easy or complex each situation will be. Perhaps life is complicated because people are compli- cated. Is it possible that life is not complicated, but rather, individuals complicate life in the way they approach it?
I discovered it wasn’t really life or circumstances or other people as much as it was me that needed to change. My problem wasn’t the problem—I was the problem! When you spend your life in frustration trying to change the world and everyone in it, you fail to realize it could be you just need to change your approach to life. It can be very easy for someone to live an entire lifetime and never entertain the notion that the way they do things is the real problem.
Have you ever attempted to have friends over for what you initially intended to be a simple afternoon of food, fellowship, and fun, but somehow, it turned into a complicated nightmare? I remember those days vividly. I’d be at church on Sunday and, without much forethought, invite three couples over for the following Sunday to a barbecue. My initial thought was hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, baked beans, potato chips, and iced tea. My motive was fellowship and fun, but by the time the guests arrived, I didn’t even want them there. Fun was not going to happen, at least not for me. Why? I turned my simple get- together into a nightmare of preparation, expensive food, and fourteen people instead of the original six. My complicated approach to life and my complicated thought process convinced me hot dogs and hamburg- ers weren’t nice enough so I bought steaks we could not afford. My potato chips turned into a huge bowl of homemade potato salad. The simple baked beans became four side dishes I labored over.
Insecure and wanting to impress everyone, I had to spend the week cleaning and getting everything in the house to the point where I thought it would be impressive. Of course, the lawn chairs were old, so I bought new ones. I got angry at Dave because I thought he wasn’t help- ing me enough, and by the time our friends arrived, I resented them, wished they hadn’t come, and had a miserable day of pretending to be the happy hostess when in reality I was frustrated and miserable.
I could not figure out why I wasn’t able to enjoy much of anything in life until God revealed to me I was killing my joy with complication. For years, I prayed God would change the people and circumstances around me when, in reality, He wanted to change me and my approach to life. He wanted me to simplify so, ultimately, He could be glorified.
Let me share with you 100 ways to approach living that can simplify your life and, in turn, release and increase your joy. I believe they will dramatically improve the quality of your everyday experience if you incorporate them into the way you do things. Jesus said He came so we might have and enjoy our life in abundance (see John 10:10). His prin- ciples are simple. Faith is simple! Trusting God is simple! A childlike approach to Him is simple! The plan of salvation is simple!
Jesus offers us a “new way of living,” and I believe it is a simple, yet powerful way that enables us to enjoy everyday life. Are you ready to simplify your life? Are you ready to say good-bye to the complexities you’ve allowed to take over? Let’s get started.
Do One Thing at a Time
The feeling of being hurried is not usually the result of living a full life and having no time. It is, on the contrary, born of a vague fear that we are wasting our life. When we do not do the one thing we ought to do, we have no time for anything elseówe are the busiest people in the world.
ÓERIC HOFFER
Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also its Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection].
—Hebrews 12:2
When we do things without truly focusing our minds on them, we immediately decrease our strength to do the work before us and do it well. By putting our hands to one thing and our mind to another, we divide the muscle behind our abilities and we make the task much more difficult. It’s like removing an egg yolk from the egg white—both can be used separately but the result isn’t as effective (or tasty) as it would be if we leave the egg whole. However, by directing all of our faculties to the one thing we are doing on a particular day, at that hour, at that moment, we find it much easier to do. The ability to concentrate and stay focused can only come from discipline.
The apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:6 to be anxious for nothing. Anxious people are always trying to live ahead of where they currently are. They spend today trying to figure out tomorrow and the result is the loss of simplicity. God expects us to trust Him with tomorrow just as He instructed the Israelites to do when they crossed the barren wil- derness, pressing toward the Promised Land.
Practice living one day at a time; give yourself—your thoughts, your conversation, your energies, every part of you—to the day at hand.
100 Ways to Simplify Your Life
1. Develop an ability to give yourself to what you are doing. You will sense an awareness enabling you to enjoy the current activity, instead of going through each day in a blur of activity and confusing thoughts which leave you drained and exhausted.
Do you fear you will not accomplish as much if you try to live this way? It’s true you may not do as much, but you will also enjoy what you do a whole lot more. One key to simplicity is realizing that quality is far superior to quantity.
The Blog Tour for "Nan's Journey" Begins July 23
It is time to play a Wild Card! Every now and then, a book that I have chosen to read is going to pop up as a FIRST Wild Card Tour. Get dealt into the game! (Just click the button!) Wild Card Tours feature an author and his/her book's FIRST chapter!
You never know when I might play a wild card on you!
Today's Wild Card author is:
and his/her book:
Tate Publishing & Enterprises (January 2, 2008)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Littau is a life-long resident of Perryton, TX. She met husband, Terry at the Apostolic Faith Bible College in Baxter Springs, Kansas in 1974. They married March 1, 1975 and reside on a small acreage near Perryton where they enjoy spending time with their family and friends. They raised three sons and now have three daughters-in-law and four grandchildren added to their family. They also enjoy visiting with their extended family located in Perryton, Clear Lake, Laverne, and Amarillo.
Author Elaine Littau is a busy woman who by profession is the church secretary for Harvest Time First Assembly of God Church in Perryton. Among other things she has led women’s groups and taught preschool, and was a mentor for the M.O.P.S. (Mothers of Preschoolers) group in her community. She has been active in Toastmasters and enjoys painting, crafts, and playing piano and organ. She was recently appointed to the Campus Education Improvement Committee for Wright Elementary in Perryton. She belongs to Christian Storytellers and Faith Writers writing groups.
“Nan’s Journey” was written over the course of several years. “A salvation message is at the core of the book.” Littau says. “If it weren’t for the Lord, I wouldn’t have been able to do this. I truly enjoy meeting new people.”
Littau is currently working on two other books that are continuations of “Nan’s Journey.” Book signings and speaking engagements are currently set up for venues in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, and Oregon.
Visit the author's website.
Product Details:
List Price: $12.99
Paperback: 188 pages
Publisher: Tate Publishing & Enterprises (January 2, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1602478325
ISBN-13: 978-1602478329
AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:
Chapter One
It was late. The moon had risen and the night symphony was in full force. Crickets chirped at their rivals, the frogs, and dominated the night chorus. Only one sound in the forest was foreign—a whimper from under the ferns. At the base of the largest pine in the woods was a small form crying, moaning, and whimpering. Black hair, matted and dirty, hung in long ropes down the front of the tiny girl. She had been in this spot for hours. At least that is what it felt like to her. Stretching, she cried out in pain. The blood-covered welts burst open to bleed again. Her back was wet with blood, and her dress was torn and useless.
Why had she dared to speak to the woman that she was obliged to call mother in that way? She knew that talking was not allowed from children before chores were finished. The accusations being made by “Ma” were totally false and she could not let Elmer take the blame for something she herself had forgotten to do. She shut her eyes tight against the memory, but it intruded anyway.
She had just gotten up to take the water off the stove to make up dishwater for the supper dishes. Ma had stepped outside the room to turn down her bed and prepare for sleep. When she reappeared in the kitchen, she realized that the wood supply next to the stove was low. Elmer was standing next to the table gathering the plates for washing. “Elmer, where is the wood you were supposed to bring up to the house?” Before he could answer, a hand had slapped him across his face. Getting back onto his feet and standing as tall as a five year old can stand, he looked her in the eye and said, “Ma, I was sick today, ‘member?”
“So, Elmer, you’re going to play up that headache trick again. Nan, didn’t your good for nothing Mama teach you people how to work, or are you just lazy?”
“Our Mama was good! Don’t you say mean things about her!” Nan yelled as her heart raced at the assault against her real Mama’s character.
“What about it, Elmer, are you like your weakling Mama or what?” Elmer’s eyes became very large and filled with tears. He could barely remember his real Mama, but when he did, he remembered soft kisses and sweet singing and a beautiful face. “I’m sorry; I’ll get the wood now.”
“No, Elmer, don’t. I promised you I’d do it today when your head was hurting, but I forgot. I’ll get it after I do these dishes.”
“Listen here, Nan, I’m the boss around here and Elmer will do what I say, when I say, and you will respect me.”
Nan’s eyes widened.
“Don’t look at me like that, little girl.”
Nan held her breath.
“Well, I guess you will be making a trip to the wood shed…with me!” Ma had grabbed her by the arm and jerked her along behind the shed. The strap was hanging there, waiting. Whippings were becoming more and more frequent. After Ma’s husband left, they had taken on a more cruel form. The last whipping was more like a beating. It took days for the marks to scab over and heal. Little Elmer had come in that night and brought some horse medicine from the barn and applied it to the oozing marks.
The next afternoon when the schoolteacher came over, Ma had already formulated a story. “Mrs. Dewey, we missed Nan and Elmer today at school. Are they sick?” Ma lied the first time in her life and said, “Well Miss Sergeant, since Mr. Dewey is going to be gone for another four weeks, I need more help around here to get things done. I’m holding the kids out until he gets back.” Week after week went by, and Mr. Dewey still hadn’t come home. Everyday Ma grew more and more angry. It became more and more impossible to please her. When she began hitting Elmer, it was too much. Nan had to do something— right or wrong; things couldn’t stay the way they were.
The coolness of the earth had settled into Nan’s bones. She stood silently for a minute and carefully crept up to the farmhouse. As she opened the door, she saw that Elmer was in the pallet at the foot of the stove next to her bedroll. Ma was asleep in her room. The door held open with a rock. Slowly she began peeling off the dress and the dried blood stuck to it. She reached for the old shirt she normally wore over her wounds and under her dress. She had washed it today. It had bloodstains on it, but it would keep her from ruining another dress. She retrieved the old work dress that she wore when chores were messier than usual; it was the only one left. She put it on swiftly and shook Elmer awake with her hand over his mouth. “Baby, we must leave. Do you understand? Stay quiet and I will get some stuff to take with us.”
She found large old handkerchief and began looking for food supplies. There was one sourdough biscuit and about a cup of cold brown beans. She located her tin cup and another rag. She would probably need that. Three matches were in the cup on the stove. She would just take two. Suddenly she heard a sound from Ma’s room. A scampering sound… just a rat. Ma turned over. Her breathing became deep and regular. For once Nan wished that Ma snored. She tied the handkerchief in a knot over the meager food supplies, grabbed their bedrolls, and slowly opened the door.
“Come on, Elmer. Can you carry this food? I’ll get your bedding. That’s a good boy. We must hurry!”
The cold air bit at their faces, but they walked bravely on.
“Elmer, we must go tonight so we can get as far away as we can before Ma wakes up and sees that we are gone.”
For the next half hour the pair walked in silence through the familiar woods past the graves on the hill. In one, a mother dearly loved, in another, an infant who had died the same day as his mother, and the third, a father that only Nan had memory of. Elmer was only two years old when Pa died in the logging accident. Nan snapped out of her reverie and urged Elmer on. Molasses, Pa’s good old workhorse, stood in the pasture. He skidded the logs Pa cut with his axe. His legs hadn’t healed quite right, but Mama hadn’t let Mr. Dewey kill him because he was all she had left of the husband of her youth. Molasses was a faithful friend to Nan and Elmer. He stood there and waited for them to mount him.
“Molasses, take us to…” Nan realized then that they had nowhere to go. Mrs. Dewey had said that they were ungrateful little imps who didn’t realize she and Mr. Dewey were taking care of them out of kindness, and they could easily be put into an orphanage. Nan didn’t know anything about orphanages except what Mrs. Dewey…uh, Ma had told her. “Molasses, just take us out of here.”
Why had she dared to speak to the woman that she was obliged to call mother in that way? She knew that talking was not allowed from children before chores were finished. The accusations being made by “Ma” were totally false and she could not let Elmer take the blame for something she herself had forgotten to do. She shut her eyes tight against the memory, but it intruded anyway.
She had just gotten up to take the water off the stove to make up dishwater for the supper dishes. Ma had stepped outside the room to turn down her bed and prepare for sleep. When she reappeared in the kitchen, she realized that the wood supply next to the stove was low. Elmer was standing next to the table gathering the plates for washing. “Elmer, where is the wood you were supposed to bring up to the house?” Before he could answer, a hand had slapped him across his face. Getting back onto his feet and standing as tall as a five year old can stand, he looked her in the eye and said, “Ma, I was sick today, ‘member?”
“So, Elmer, you’re going to play up that headache trick again. Nan, didn’t your good for nothing Mama teach you people how to work, or are you just lazy?”
“Our Mama was good! Don’t you say mean things about her!” Nan yelled as her heart raced at the assault against her real Mama’s character.
“What about it, Elmer, are you like your weakling Mama or what?” Elmer’s eyes became very large and filled with tears. He could barely remember his real Mama, but when he did, he remembered soft kisses and sweet singing and a beautiful face. “I’m sorry; I’ll get the wood now.”
“No, Elmer, don’t. I promised you I’d do it today when your head was hurting, but I forgot. I’ll get it after I do these dishes.”
“Listen here, Nan, I’m the boss around here and Elmer will do what I say, when I say, and you will respect me.”
Nan’s eyes widened.
“Don’t look at me like that, little girl.”
Nan held her breath.
“Well, I guess you will be making a trip to the wood shed…with me!” Ma had grabbed her by the arm and jerked her along behind the shed. The strap was hanging there, waiting. Whippings were becoming more and more frequent. After Ma’s husband left, they had taken on a more cruel form. The last whipping was more like a beating. It took days for the marks to scab over and heal. Little Elmer had come in that night and brought some horse medicine from the barn and applied it to the oozing marks.
The next afternoon when the schoolteacher came over, Ma had already formulated a story. “Mrs. Dewey, we missed Nan and Elmer today at school. Are they sick?” Ma lied the first time in her life and said, “Well Miss Sergeant, since Mr. Dewey is going to be gone for another four weeks, I need more help around here to get things done. I’m holding the kids out until he gets back.” Week after week went by, and Mr. Dewey still hadn’t come home. Everyday Ma grew more and more angry. It became more and more impossible to please her. When she began hitting Elmer, it was too much. Nan had to do something— right or wrong; things couldn’t stay the way they were.
The coolness of the earth had settled into Nan’s bones. She stood silently for a minute and carefully crept up to the farmhouse. As she opened the door, she saw that Elmer was in the pallet at the foot of the stove next to her bedroll. Ma was asleep in her room. The door held open with a rock. Slowly she began peeling off the dress and the dried blood stuck to it. She reached for the old shirt she normally wore over her wounds and under her dress. She had washed it today. It had bloodstains on it, but it would keep her from ruining another dress. She retrieved the old work dress that she wore when chores were messier than usual; it was the only one left. She put it on swiftly and shook Elmer awake with her hand over his mouth. “Baby, we must leave. Do you understand? Stay quiet and I will get some stuff to take with us.”
She found large old handkerchief and began looking for food supplies. There was one sourdough biscuit and about a cup of cold brown beans. She located her tin cup and another rag. She would probably need that. Three matches were in the cup on the stove. She would just take two. Suddenly she heard a sound from Ma’s room. A scampering sound… just a rat. Ma turned over. Her breathing became deep and regular. For once Nan wished that Ma snored. She tied the handkerchief in a knot over the meager food supplies, grabbed their bedrolls, and slowly opened the door.
“Come on, Elmer. Can you carry this food? I’ll get your bedding. That’s a good boy. We must hurry!”
The cold air bit at their faces, but they walked bravely on.
“Elmer, we must go tonight so we can get as far away as we can before Ma wakes up and sees that we are gone.”
For the next half hour the pair walked in silence through the familiar woods past the graves on the hill. In one, a mother dearly loved, in another, an infant who had died the same day as his mother, and the third, a father that only Nan had memory of. Elmer was only two years old when Pa died in the logging accident. Nan snapped out of her reverie and urged Elmer on. Molasses, Pa’s good old workhorse, stood in the pasture. He skidded the logs Pa cut with his axe. His legs hadn’t healed quite right, but Mama hadn’t let Mr. Dewey kill him because he was all she had left of the husband of her youth. Molasses was a faithful friend to Nan and Elmer. He stood there and waited for them to mount him.
“Molasses, take us to…” Nan realized then that they had nowhere to go. Mrs. Dewey had said that they were ungrateful little imps who didn’t realize she and Mr. Dewey were taking care of them out of kindness, and they could easily be put into an orphanage. Nan didn’t know anything about orphanages except what Mrs. Dewey…uh, Ma had told her. “Molasses, just take us out of here.”
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