Out of words we forge our stories. The right word can make the difference between a mediocre phrase and a memorable one. We writers search diligently for the perfect phraseology. As the world marches on into the digital information age, words don’t always hold the same meaning they did when I was younger. Finding the […]
Category Archives: all things writing
The Value of Making a List of Accomplishments
When I reviewed the past year of my life, it felt as if I hadn’t done a whole lot simply because my original goals list was largely undone. However, I decided to make a list of what I did do (and many of these things I had to learn before I could do them!) Just for […]
7 Tips to Conquer the Unproductive Monster
Productive writing in the midst of running a household and homeschooling my two kids challenges my mental discipline. My to-do list grows by the minute. It’s easier to plan, rearranging the puzzle of my schedule than to simply get something – anything done. Somehow, removing an item from my list and rewriting the whole thing to […]
Impossible Gifts
I just started a book by Cecil Murphey, Unleash the Writer Within. He poses the question “why do you write?” Then leads the charge by explaining why he writes. One of his reasons is: it is a gift. Not like a present to spend on myself. But something that enriches other lives. Knowing you […]
Stuck
I would venture to say that everyone, at some point, whether it’s in writing or life, comes to the place when you can’t seem to move on. You don’t know what to do, to say, to write. Sometimes you’re just plain tired. Or overloaded and overwhelmed. Or you just wake up empty one day. Sometimes […]
Life and Research.
You’re writing fiction, but in order for it to be realistic, to keep your audience reading the whole story, you have to do your research. It’s a good idea to do your research in real life, too. Relationships are shattered when assumptions are made because the truth wasn’t sought out. A friend of mine almost […]
Planned Spontaneity
It was a Friday and I had spent more hours at my desk than I realized. Tired and done for the week, I asked my kids if they wanted to waste some time with me. My son was quick to point out that THE 7 HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE PEOPLE calls it “sharpening the saw”. Or purposefully […]
Tip #2 Find a Writing Group
After you finish reading about writing groups, check out my new short story. Click on the Story page link at the top of the page. For a writer, one of the best ways to ensure a dynamic product is to be part of a critique group. It’s easy to make excuses not to join one. […]
My Name is in Print!
I’ve had a contract since the beginning of the year, but I won’t see my name in print with that project for a few months yet. But a devotional I wrote was accepted into a compilation: the Benefit Package Compiled by Tamara Clymer at CrossRiver Media. I received my copy a couple of weeks ago […]
Writing Prompt #1
Here’s an exercise to get your creative juices flowing. Whether it turns into something you use or whether it’s simply stirring the pot, have some fun. Look at these pictures below (don’t think too hard). For each one, set your timer for five minutes and write fast and furious. No editing allowed as you go. […]
