IWSG DAY: WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Today is IWSG Day because it's the first Wednesday in August.  IWSG stands for Insecure Writers Support Group and was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh.  You can follow other IWSG members here or on twitter using the hashtag #IWSG. We also have a Facebook page.  The purpose of IWSG is to share and encourage, so today I plan to encourage.

I want you to take a look at what you've accomplished since our last IWSG day. Maybe you should jot a few notes to organize your thoughts. Accomplished a lot? Great! But what about all of you who have done nothing because of vacations, kids being home, sickness or surgeries? Don't feel bad. Life gets in the way sometimes, but honestly, we shouldn't let life get in the way ALL the time.

Ask yourself this question:

What do you truly want to achieve with your writing? Be realistic when you answer. Being a best selling writer is a realistic goal for someone who writes daily, wins contests and is actively studying and learning, but being published by one of the top five might not be  realistic for someone who only writes a few times every few months, never enters or wins a contest and doesn't revise according to critiques or feedback. We always need to learn and grow.

I'd like to suggest a writing/learning plan for those of you who aren't accomplishing anything.

Settle on one goal. You might want to finish your novel. When you reach the end, go through it again, do a little tweaking, then find beta readers or someone willing to critique. You can revise according to those comments you get from your readers. Oh, wait... you don't agree with any thing they said? Then Houston, we might have a problem. Put your pages away for a few weeks or even better, a few months while you delve into a really good how-to book. When you go back to your critiques, I'm certain you'll view them differently.

Or, your goal might be to write a few short pieces and get them out there. That's great: Identify your markets--print magazines or online literary journals. Study them by reading several months of back issues, including their guidelines. Then write. Find someone to read and give you a critique. Believe me when I say feedback is helpful. Revise accordingly.

I know I've said this to you a thousand times: making up our mind to do something is half the battle. We can be our own worst enemy or we can be our hero. We just need to decide on what we want to accomplish and let nothing or no one stand in our way as we plod toward our dream.

Here's an interesting quote from Natalie Goldberg. Take it to heart.

This is your life. You are responsible for it.
You will not live forever. Don't wait.

~ Natalie Goldberg

On another note, I'm speaking at the Texas Gulf Coast Mini-Conference on Saturday. Here's the link if you'd like to check it out: http://www.texasgulfcoastwriters.blogspot.com/

Also, my novella, The Last Daughter, is only 99 cents. If you haven't read it, I'd love for you to grab a copy and then leave an honest review.

Good Writing!

 

IWSG Day and Happy 2015!

Happy New Year, and Happy IWSG Day. The purpose of IWSG is to share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds! (And that would be ME!) IWSG was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh and has hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of members. You can be one too. You can follow other IWSG members or meet them on twitter using the hashtag #IWSG. We also have a thriving Facebook page. Look us over. I think you'll like us.

Today we're supposed to introduce ourselves. My name is Jess, Jessy, Jessica--choose one--and I am an insecure writer. I've had a couple of books published, numerous magazine articles, and I'm a staff writer for Southern Writers Magazine. But guess what! I'm still insecure. No matter what I accomplish I'm never quite sure it's for real, that it isn't some crazy fluke thing that happens. How about you? Did God bless you with an enormous amount of self-confidence?

2014 was an interesting year for me. Hubby entered into his first full year of retirement which meant I had some adjusting to do. I'm still adjusting. Our daughter got married and we renovated our house. Retirement, wedding and the renovation from hell should have sent me into a deep, dark depression but I made it. Guess I'm stronger than I thought.

I didn't get much writing done in 2014, but I am proud of a few things. My novella, The Last Daughter, finaled in the Booksellers Best contest, a Published Authors’ Contest sponsored by Greater Detroit Romance Writers of America. I was also a finalist in the Ida contest--the International Digital Awards sponsored by Oklahoma RWA. 

I think the best award of all has been that my stepson actually read The Last Daughter and even recorded it in his book journal right beneath Stephen King!

I don't have any specific plans for 2015. For some reason my plans tend to fall by the wayside, so I'm just going to write, write, write whatever book, article, short story that pops into my heart. That seems to be when I accomplish the most.

What do you want to achieve in 2015? Share details!

IWSG DAY: PUBLISHING AND BEYOND

Today is IWSG Day! Ninja Captain Alex J. Cavanaugh founded this group and he does a great job of keeping it going and encouraging everyone. 

Check out our awesome hosts this month: Heather Gardner, T. Drecker from Kidbits, Eva E. Solar at Lilicasplace, and Patsy Collins! And don't forget that we have a Facebook page and also the IWSG Critique Circle. We are a thriving community!

I'm proud to say I've had a writing month. The first time in a long time. As many of you know, 2014 was filled with weddings and home renovation. Believe me when I say the wedding was easy-peasy compared to the renovation (you'll learn all about that during our A to Z Challenge!). Finally, everything is over (except the decorating) and I can finally write.

I've made a new friend, one who is willing to meet me at the library and crank out pages for about 4 hours each week. You can't imagine how this satisfies my writing soul. Heather and I are quite compatible. Neither one of us is a chatterbox so we're comfortable sitting quietly in our own little worlds. We may take a break and discuss marketing or plotting or something we have questions about, but otherwise, we're focused.

Leaving  the house to write has proven pretty successful for me in the past. I'm hoping this Calcasieu Parish Library is filled with good creative vibes just as the Mustang Library in Oklahoma was. It feels a little different, but I'm adjusting. Maybe I can get into a writing rhythm and complete some unfinished projects within the next few months. That's my goal.

If you're having trouble writing at home, keep jumping up to dust or get something to nibble on or talk to the (retired) hubby, consider leaving the house for at least one writing day. It really works.

Last week I finished a devotional story for a specific market. I get excited when I accomplish one of my goals, but then I remember the old saying, don't break your arm patting yourself on the back. Anyway, if you have an interest in writing inspirational stories, check out these guidelines.

On another note, if you need some instruction, please check out the 'latest greatest' how-to book by many of your IWSG friends.  And I will be patting myself on the back since I made my deadline and contributed. Read below for details:

Publishing and Beyond is available for downloading. Please help us spread the word about this awesome book.

Tapping into the expertise of over a hundred talented authors from around the globe, The IWSG Guide to Publishing and Beyond contains something for every writer. Whether you are starting out and need tips on the craft of writing, looking for encouragement as an already established author, taking the plunge into self-publishing, or seeking innovative ways to market and promote your work, this guide is a useful tool. Compiled into three key areas of writing, publishing, and marketing, this valuable resource offers inspirational articles, helpful anecdotes, and excellent advice on dos and don'ts that we all wish we knew when we first started out on this writing journey.

ISBN 9781939844088
235 pages, FREE
Find it at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Smashwords, Goodreads.

At the time of this posting, Amazon has Publishing and Beyond for 99 cents. Hopefully, that will be changed but ... it's worth it!

Thanks to everyone who contributed – it's packed with information!

IWSG: THE FIRST DAY OF YOUR LIFE

Today is IWSG day-the first Wednesday of each month. IWSG stands for Insecure Writers Support Group and was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Our purpose is to share and encourage.  You can follow other IWSG members here or on twitter using the hashtag #IWSG. We also have a Facebook page.

Today is the first day of the rest of your life. Charles Dederich, a reformed alcoholic and a member of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.), was said to have coined that phrase. I like it. I say it to myself a lot. I like the idea of being able to start anew whenever I feel the need. That’s fairly often these days.

Our son was married last October 5^th. We traveled to Florida for a destination wedding.

On August 23^rd daughter walked down the aisle on her daddy’s arm and pledged life and love to her groom. And so began the first day of the rest of her life as a wife.

We’re In-laws now. God help us be a good and considerate mother in law and father in law!

Hubby and I are sharing so many new experiences in our old age:

1)      Retirement.  We actually live together day in and day out. Because of his work in the construction industry, we’ve not lived together much. That’s taking some getting used to—probably for both of us but especially for me.
 

2)      Renovation. This has been a hellacious experience that neither of us want to repeat. It began March 3^rd and it’s still happening. Need I say more?
 

3)      Church: Because I was raised Baptist, we’ve spent the first half of our marriage attending the Baptist church, but when we moved to Oklahoma, we gravitated toward Assembly of God and found a wonderful church with beautiful people. Back in Lake Charles, we chose to keep going to an AG church. It's been unusual and interesting. We should never forget that The Bible is the true word of God--no pastor, preacher, evangelist, priest or spiritual advisor. 'Nuff said.

Through all these experiences, I see the importance of starting over if the need arises. I see the importance of keeping the faith, and a positive attitude. I see the importance of truth, patience, love and loyalty, encouragement and friendships. New experiences come daily and affect our lives in one way or another. That means they affect our writing too. They stimulate new ideas to write about, or they stymie us so that we can’t write. I think it's our choice.

I have several unfinished and roughly finished manuscripts that nag at me constantly. I’ve felt like giving up out of frustration—just because I haven’t had the time or focus, and no comfortable workspace. I’m not good at grabbing time—writing a paragraph today, a page tomorrow. I like working in long, flowing hours. Right or wrong, I need to see progress in my word count.

Today, I woke up thinking, “Today is the first day of the rest of my life” and another thought popped into my head: What if it was the last day? The thought surprised me.

I want to write. I’ve always wanted to write and publish but I’ve always stood in my own way.

Today I set two specific goals. We have our annual Bayou Writers Conference on November 8^th so I will have a completed novel to pitch to the agent on that day.  I just like one or two more chapters and a few scenes to add. Dedication and focus can get it done.

My second goal is to get back to blogging. I’ve missed it. I used to blog daily but today I pledge two or three posts a week.

Today is the first day of the rest of your life. Want to rededicate yourself to something dear? How do you want to start over? Any goals you need to stalk? Share with us.

IWSG Day! and More!

I'm late! I'm late! For a very important date!

Today is IWSG day--the first Wednesday of the month. IWSG stands for Insecure Writers Support Group and was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. You can follow other IWSG members here  and on twitter using the hashtag #IWSG.

Our purpose is to share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds.

We're wrapping up renovation at our house and then, after putting everything back in its place, I'll be in a position to tackle another kind of renovation. Novel renovation! Short story renovation! Mental renovation! I can't wait!

You probably remember that I said I planned to go to the library every day of renovation and write. Did. Not. Happen. Why on earth I thought I'd be able to do such a thing is beyond me. I've never renovated a house before. I'll give you a tip. Move out completely. Rent a pod or a storage house and get all your furniture out. Otherwise, you'll go stark raving mad!

When it comes to renovating novels, I suppose we might say the same thing. Some people segregate things. One day they might tackle characterization or setting. The next, they look at the plot line. I hear Scrivener is great at helping compartmentalize things like this. I'm slowly learning Scrivener so we'll see.

Even though I'm late posting IWSG today, I wanted to post to encourage you all. (And I didn't want Alex to get me!)

On another note, I'd like for you to read an interview with me and my partner, Jan Rider Newman at The Review Review. Leslie Schultz spoke with us about starting our literary magazine, Swamp Lily Review. The Review Review quoted me at the very top of the website! I'm thrilled!

Z is for Zero

Today is my last day of blogging through the alphabet with the many others participating in the 2014 A to Z Challenge. It has been fun and, as the name implies, challenging. We've blogged daily--except for Sunday. I'm glad the end has come but I'm sad too. I always enjoy putting my thoughts down with no pre-planning. Something about spontaneous writing the morning of, proves to me that I CAN write every day. I need to make myself do it.

Today is Z day and I've chosen Zero for absolutely Zero words toward fiction writing. Ever since we started thinking about renovation, I've been unable to worm any creativity out of my mind toward my novels. Okay, I did write a 700 word mini-mystery, and I have met my NF deadlines. I guess that counts. But the novels are on the hard drive, exactly the way they were when we moved back home from Oklahoma last August. That's embarrassing. And pathetic!

Time marches on. Hair gets grayer. Mind gets slower. Fingers become more arthritic.

Zero writing progress.

Zero sounds like such a nothing state of mind.

I've decided to pretend this A to Z Challenge is never-ending, and write at least 500 words a day on a new project. (Once I start, I can write for hours so maybe more than 500?) New projects are exciting. They energize us, don't they? Once they're embedded in our mind, they're all we think about. Plotting, planning, naming characters, working out the conflict.

Keep your fingers cross for me.

Down with Zero productivity--for all of us!

Tell me what you plan to do now that you aren't A to Z-ing any more. Rest? Dive into a new project? Finish an old one?  Share with us.

___________

The A to Z Challenge is the brainchild of Arlee Bird at Tossing it Out. Every year there are hundreds and hundreds of participants. This year 2018 bloggers signed up.  There's some mighty good reading on these blogs. Check them out!

X is for X Factor in Writing

Join me as I blog through the alphabet. We post every day in April except Sundays. There are many others participating in the 2014 A to Z Challenge too, which is the brainchild of Arlee Bird at Tossing it Out. I'd like to encourage you to visit their entertaining, informative blogs. I'm amazed at the many talented people who participate in the A to Z Challenge.

The letter X always brings two phrases to my mind: X marks the spot and X Factor.

X Factor is what I've chosen for today because of its importance in our writing. X factor is an unknown quality that only becomes known after following a prescribed process. Doesn't that sound a little like writing? We outline our novels, follow guidelines, obey the rules, but honestly, we don't know if our books work until after we finish and sit down for a read through. Or get that first critique or rejection.

X Factor comes from the world of math, of course, but it extends to the business world too, as well as the entertainment world.  Interviewers, judges, and I dare say, editors and agents consider that unknown, vital quality when they read over our manuscripts, judge a competition; there's something extra, something that pops that gets their attention. Something they can't quite put their finger on.

When an editor takes five manuscripts home with her, how many of the five will truly grab her? The X factor will make the difference. It might be a fantastic sense of setting, characters that walk off the page, an interweaving of plot that amazes, or an unique voice. We're all aware of the "it" factor--translate X factor. We search for it ourselves when we're looking for a good book to read or movie to watch or a special dress to wear.

When we started renovating our house, I came across the term, X stretchers. I'd never heard that phrase before but it's defined as flat or curved supports forming an X shape used to connect and reinforce furniture legs. It can also be used in décor--X on glass cabinet doors, ornate knobs or other carved ornamentation. But it offers support. It occurred to me that these X stretchers are like the different aspects of our novels that do and should support each other. Like our setting can become a character and support the mystery.  Dialogue supports our characters. It makes them real or it can make them flat. Dialogue is supposed to move the story forward. Sometimes the dialogue can kill the story for the reader and they throw the book across the room.

To achieve the X Factor, we have to pay close attention to every sentence we write. Watch those passive verbs--make them active. Sentences should sing. Our setting needs to live. Is our rising action really rising? Are the characters in our stories alive to the reader? Not just a few readers, but many readers--ALL readers. Yeah, I know it's impossible to please everyone but we do need to try. Striving for that X Factor just might help us attain best-seller status. At the very least, some excellent reviews.

I want the X Factor! Do you? How do we go about getting it? Share your thoughts. 

IWSG Day: Writer in a Box

Today is Insecure Writers Support Group day. It was started by Alex Cavanaugh. Here's a list of all the participants. I hope you'll check them out because there are some interesting people out there in IWSG land.  

This month I'm  covered up with way too many things to post a worthwhile message for you. On  Thursday, house renovation begins. Hubby and I have been boxing up everything, trying to get ready for new floors, new paint, new cabinets and more. Our wet bar is being demolished and we're adding floor to ceiling bookshelves. Hopefully, it will be a nice little reading nook. We're amazed at how much "stuff" we have--especially books. Because of the wall to wall, floor to floor book cases in my office, and my huge desk, that room will not be painted or get new floors so we're stacking boxes of books from other rooms there. Here's what my office looks like today:

While the house is being revamped, I hope to go to the library to write. My plan is to read over The Groom Wore Blue Suede Shoes, make a few changes then bring it out as an ebook. I hope I can read through it fast because there are other things I want to accomplish. I need to finish Circus Girl. The completed manuscript was requested by an editor last year, but I didn't get it finished. I don't know if I should contact her again or not. I'm sure she's deemed me a slacker. What would you do? Then the next project is A Bad Guy Forever. I'm almost finished for the LAST time! I can't tell you how many times I've rewritten that book. Everyone seems to be writing and publishing so fast and I just poke a long. I'm also working on two NF books. One is moving slowly--the other, almost finished. 

 

 

So, that's my plan. Hope I can stick to it.

 

Just in case I can't make it to the library, I've left a path through all these boxes to my desk. Maybe I can plug in the earbuds, listen to something interesting and drown out the hammering. The workers will be here for seven or eight weeks--maybe longer. I need to make every day count.

 

Keep your fingers crossed for me and share any advice you have. Without a doubt, I need all the help I can get!

 

 

IWSG: A Blank Mind

 

Today is IWSG day--the first Wednesday of each month. IWSG stands for Insecure Writers Support Group and was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. You can follow other IWSG members here  and on twitter using the hashtag #IWSG.

Our purpose is to share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds.

But unfortunately, I can't think of one thing to say to you: not one word of encouragement or guidance--no words of wisdom whatsoever. I feel like a blackboard with smears of chalky white. All my ideas and plans have been erased leaving nothing but unidentifiable smudges behind. Ever felt that way?

Obviously, I'm in a funk. Maybe you have a word or two for me.

Meet L. Diane Wolfe - How to Write a Nonfiction Book

Many thanks to L. Diane Wolfe for being my first guest blogger. I asked her to tell us how to write a nonfiction book because I wanted some instruction. I hope you pick up on her energy, visit her websites and blog, and check out her book below. For a short while, my guest bloggers will be here and on my new blog, Be a Real Writer. I'd love for you to click on Be a Real Writer and become a real  follower. Thanks!

How to Write a Non-Fiction Book

 

Most writers fall on one side of the equation - they write either fiction or non-fiction. Those who write fiction are storytellers and feed off their imagination. To them, writing non-fiction sounds about as fun as penning an essay. Many wouldn’t even know where to begin. 

Writing non-fiction is very different than writing fiction. I’ve written books in both genres and it does require a shifting of mental gears. Non-fiction can be just as fun though. Plus, being the author of a non-fiction book has its advantages, including credibility as an expert and more media opportunities.

 

Below are the basic steps for writing a non-fiction book.

 

1 - Pick a topic you know well. You could try your hand at something new, but with non-fiction it’s all about your expertise. Consider it this way - what could you teach others?

 

2 - Create a basic outline. Group subjects into chapters and create a basic flow of information.

 

3 - Research! No matter how well you know a topic, there is always more to learn. Take lots of notes. Jot down facts, figures, resources, links, etc.

 

4 - If you will be quoting any sources or using images, get permission. Information and photos on the Internet are copyrighted by law. Better to get permission than to get sued.

 

5 - Organize your notes. Everyone has their own style, but group the notes according to each chapter topic. (I’ve literally cut my notes apart, laid out sheets of paper with each chapter’s subject, and then placed the notes where they fit best.)

 

6 - Once your notes are organized, adjust your outline accordingly and add details. If you are seeking a publisher or agent, they will want to see a detailed outline first, sometimes even before you’ve written the book. If you are self-publishing it, this will help you stay on track with your writing.

 

7 - Begin writing! One of the unique aspects of non-fiction is the ability to start with any chapter in the book. Often non-fiction in what I call a fact form - a presentation of information. But some non-fiction, especially historical non-fiction, is written with a storyline. The subject of your book will help you decide which method will work best.

 

8 - Once you start the first round of edits, note what is lacking. What areas need more information or details? You also want to ensure the writing has voice. It may be non-fiction, but your personality and voice need to come through loud and strong. If it doesn’t, then yes, you will have a boring essay on your hands!

 

9 - Editing non-fiction is also different in that you’ll need someone who knows the material and can edit for content, not just grammar, flow, and structure.

 

They say if you want to learn a subject even better, you need to teach it. Writing a non-fiction book achieves just that and allows you to share your expertise with others. And there’s something really satisfying in sharing.

 

Now, who’s ready to write a non-fiction book?

 

L. Diane Wolfe

Professional Speaker & Author

www.spunkonastick.net

http://www.circleoffriendsbooks.blogspot.com

www.thecircleoffriends.net

 

Known as “Spunk On A Stick,” Wolfe is a member of the National Speakers Association and the author of numerous books. Her latest title, “How to Publish and Promote Your Book Now,” covers her publishing seminars in depth and provides an overview of the entire process from idea to market. “Overcoming Obstacles With SPUNK! The Keys to Leadership & Goal-Setting”, ties her goal-setting and leadership seminars together into one complete, enthusiastic package. Her YA series, The Circle of Friends, features morally grounded, positive stories. Wolfe travels extensively for media interviews and speaking engagements, maintains a dozen websites & blogs, and assists writers through her author services.

Z is for Zing

Today is the last day of the A to Z Challenge. This year's challenge was really laced with ZING! Zing means a lively, zestful quality; zest, vigor, animation, force, vitality, etc.  Every blogsite I visited had zing.

When I read the definition, I wondered about other things in my life that have ZING so I made a list and thought I'd share with you.

My marriage, my daughter and--believe it or not, after delving into my so-called memoirs, my family.

Sometimes, my cooking--even when it falls flat!

My driving--especially when I'm thinking about writing--just ask my husband.

My pastor, my SS teacher ... wait, my entire church!

My dreams have zing. Just ask my husband!

When we went home this past weekend, I noticed my cactus flower was blooming. Definitely some Zing!

I conclude ... I'm surrounded by ZING!

Now that A to Z Challenge is over, I hope to concentrate on putting more ZING into my writing. More description, visual setting, stronger conflict and characterization ... and ACTIVE verbs.

What have you learned from A to Z -- as a participant or as a reader? Share. How can we put more ZING in our writing and in our lives?

W is for Writing

When I signed up for A to Z Challenge this year, I had no idea what I wanted to write about. I planned to wing it—the way I did last year. But as soon as I sat down to write that first post, my theme became apparent: I'd write about my childhood and my family. I’ve had fun blogging about my loved ones, but I’m ready to move on and talk about writing again. Family Time is growing old and boring for me. And I’m beginning to repeat myself. I don’t like repetition!

So W is for Writing. This is what I’ve been doing alongside A to Z.

I wrote a short story specifically for Woman’s World. This time I got off my ‘duff’ and put it in the mail. I’m waiting … waiting … waiting … just like in the old days. Complete with SASE.  Woman’s World doesn’t take email submissions.

I’m also working on a pitch to a Harlequin editor on May 8^th. This will be sort of like speed dating: I pitch in 100 words or less and they tell me immediately whether they want to see a synopsis, a proposal or the complete novel. I really like this idea. This is the instant gratification thingie working. I’m pretty nervous about it, even though I have the pitch ready. I've been working on the first three chapters of the manuscript just in case the editor requests it. It’s a straight inspirational romance—no mystery or suspense. And I still have to write the synopsis. Arrghh!

My mind is working constantly on other things—revising, re-plotting, wondering if anything is any good. There’s so much I want to revamp. I don’t want to give up on any of my stories—even when I know I should move on to something fresh.

My novella came to me so easily. I wish all my stories came that fast—that complete. They don’t. I struggle.

Tell me about your writing. Do you have anything with an agent or editor? Or do you plan to ePub? Do you like today’s publishing world and how things have changed? Tell us about it.

Here's a market for you just in case you don't have anything to do:

Family Circle Magazine is now accepting submissions for their 2013 Fiction Contest. Submit your previously unpublished short story of no more than 2,500 words by September 16, 2013. There is no fee to enter and you could win the grand prize of $1,000 and publication in the magazine, plus other prizes. For all the details go here.

L is for Lemon Supreme

Cooking is a complete mystery to me--not unlike writing.  I don’t know any of the tricks. Sure I can cook a few things really well, but I can’t say they always taste the same.  I know I’m not the only one with that problem. Years ago, I gave my mother-in-law a cake recipe; she made the cake and accused me of leaving out a special ingredient because hers didn’t taste like mine. Mine never tastes like my mom’s did either. No, it’s not psychological.

After taking some of my mother’s cake pans and a pancake griddle—ones Mom always used Crisco and flour on/in, I learned the hard way that they don’t respond well to my spray Pam. What’s up with that?

Mom baked wonderful desserts. A family favorite was the Lemon Supreme Apricot Nectar cake. Don’t be turned off. You can NOT taste the apricot nectar.  The glaze was to die for—sweet and tart. The first time she baked it, she told us she used a toothpick to jab holes in the cake so the glaze would seep through the holes. Before long, we noticed she’d graduated from toothpick to the end of the wooden spoon—with a double batch of glaze. Yum!

So my L word is for my favorite cake, and I’m sharing Mom’s recipe with you.

1 Duncan Hines Lemon Supreme cake mix

1 cup of Apricot Nectar

¾ cup of Crisco oil

½ cup sugar

4 eggs

Combine the cake mix, nectar, oil and sugar together and mix well. Then add the four eggs. Mix again, thoroughly. Bake in a tube pan or a Bundt pan at 325 degrees for one hour. Or test with toothpick.

 

Glaze: Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar and juice from one lemon. Stick holes in cake with toothpick (or the end of a wooden spoon) and spread over cake while cake is hot.  You can control the tartness/sweetness of the glaze –more lemon or more powdered sugar.

Baking a cake really is a lot like writing, isn’t it? Sometimes my novels crumble.

Have a good weekend!  I’ll post again on Monday with the letter M.

Success Is A Prayer Away

IWSG is the brainchild of our awesome Alex J. Cavanaugh. If you want to become a part of this group or read posts by other participants, you can find the list here.

If you read my previous post, you know that I’ve been out of state cleaning out my mother’s home. I’m back now, and battling … something. Not flu—maybe a horrible cold. Headache, cough, wheezing; all I want to do is sleep. I have so much to do. I’m behind in everything but all I do is cough and sleep. Since I don’t want to be booted from IWSG for missing a post, here it is:

A thought for you:

No one stumbles into success. It comes through planning, preparing, and some of us believe, the favor of God.

Hope you’re all planning, preparing for success. If you need to study and learn, do it, but don’t quit writing even if you wonder if you’re doing it right. You learn by doing. If you believe in critique groups, then join one. If you don’t know one to join, then start one yourself: a person to person group or an online group. I believe it helps if you all write the same thing but other writers disagree. I also believe you should have some members that are a little more experienced than you are in that critique group. They can pull you up, help improve your writing, and teach you, but don’t hang your hat on them. Don’t be spoon fed. Make sure you study and educate yourself too.

My two cents except for this: there’s nothing wrong with praying for your writing. God created you. He gave you any talent you have. He also gave us freedom of choice so whether you use your talent to glorify Him is something else entirely—between you and Him.

Nothing happens by accident. You aren't going to stumble into that three-book contract. Tell me, what are you doing to achieve writing success in your life?

 

A Writing Debate

The fact of the matter is …debates are not fun. Not for everyone! What if you had to verbally convince an editor, agent or publisher to buy your novel. I'm not talking about a ten-minute pitch. Picture this:

You’re at a writers’ conference. Instead of signing up for the Early Bird Seminar, you’re participating in a Writer’s Debate: You will stand at a podium with another writer and verbally try to convince editors and agents to take a chance on you and your manuscript.

Here’s how it plays out:

You have no notes and no teleprompter. You know your novel and characters--you’ve lived with them for a year so why would you need a cheat sheet? You've memorized a killer hook and a concise synopsis that sounds great. This time, because you're speaking, you’ll be judged on how you dress, how well you converse, your body language--everything visual. Could you do this? Would you want to do it?

Here’s what you should cover in the first round:

The title of your book and why you chose it. Give your one sentence hook, not a tagline. A sentence that creates interest in your manuscript. Recite your brief overview of your book--similar to the blurb on the back cover. Remember, pay attention to the way your speak, your tone of voice should be vibrant. Everything you say should make the editor/agent/publisher want to read your manuscript.

NOW IT'S TIME TO HEAR YOUR COMPETITION. SHE GIVES HIS OR HER SPIEL IN THE SAME AMOUNT OF TIME.  

Back to you for more detail: Speak about your characters this time, their internal and external conflicts, and how they overcome and grow. List some plot points. Tell the editor/agent/publisher briefly your beginning, middle and ending, and how you want the reader to feel once s/he has finished reading your book. How many words is your book and how many chapters. Is the manuscript complete--no more revising and editing? Have you written or thought about book club questions and if so, how many have you created?  You'll also share information about what qualifies you to write this book. Where you've been published, Magazines, other books? What are your sales figures if you're a published author? Have you won any awards or have special degrees or certifications in creative writing? If you have nothing, no credits, etc, then tell us why. How long did it take you to write the book? How many books do you think you can write in a year? Are you a plotter or pantser? What kind of support group do you have? You should answer all these questions in your spiel. 

NOW YOUR COMPETITION SPEAKS AGAIN, MAKING HIMSELF SOUND VERY PROLIFIC AND KNOWLEDGEABLE. And this time he can point out weaknesses in your verbal proposal.

Your turn again:

Speak about your platform and how you are able to reach your target audience. Tell what you’ve already done, what contacts you have and what plans you have to market your book. Explain your social media presence and connections. Remember to speak with confidence. If you say you plan to be on Oprah, get ready for a heehaw unless you can prove that her people have contacted you.

Here comes the tricky part -- comparable books: you’ll want to tell about several novels that you see as similar to yours in some way. It’s your goal to develop a big-picture understanding of your book. This will show that you’ve done your research because you’ll recite the title, author, release year, and a couple of sentences about each book and how your book is similar and why/how it would appeal to the same audience.

YOUR COMPETITION DOES THE SAME. WHEN S/HE IS FINISHED, IT'S TIME FOR EACH EDITOR/AGENT/PUBLISHER TO CHALLENGE THE TWO OF YOU. THEY MIGHT SAY AND DO THE FOLLOWING: 

They will ask each of you questions about each character’s motivation, jab holes in your plots. Once they’ve finished using you as a punching bag, they’ll ask questions about your market. Questions you should have thought of and have the answers to--like, who you see as the audience for the book? What will make someone buy your book? How you read your audience? Do you have any special relationships to the market?  What your audience does in its spare time, what books and periodicals they read, favorite TV programs, and how and why you feel you understand your audience?  They’ll ask personal questions about your writing and your home life, your support groups, professional affiliations, and how you give back to the writing community. They’ll ask what you see as your biggest challenge when it comes to writing.

When they finish their third degree, you will have a few moments for a last ditch effort to convince the powers-that-be to offer you the publishing contract instead of the other person.

Your competition has the same.

After such an event, no doubt you will duck into the hotel bar for a stiff drink, or to your room. Right before you pass out, you'll vow never to participate in such a brutal, demoralizing event again. Ever. But of course, you will because you'll do whatever it takes to sell your book.

I don’t blame you. I'm already practicing for the day selling a book comes to a writing debate.

IWSG: Get Rid of the Clutter

If you read my previous post, you know that my AOL email was hacked. The only word that comes to mind is devastating, but only because I've had my AOL email address for ten or twelve years. jessy31writer was who I was. It was my identity. When I went to writers' conferences, attendees may not know my name but all I had to say was, "I'm jessy31writer" and they'd say, "Oh, yeah."

Devastating! Sort of reminds me of when I learned we were moving to Oklahoma. I could hardly stand the thought of being so far away from our kids, I couldn't stand the thought of lifting and moving furniture, traveling in two vehicles across a couple of states, searching for a place to live, waiting for the cable guy. If you've moved much, you know the drill. Using a new email address felt the same way.

Oklahoma--in spite of the wind, the drought, tornadoes, new TV stations, gangs, drive-by shootings, unfamiliar grocery stores and brands of food--has been great for my writing. I only know one person here, two if you count my husband, so all I have to do is cook, wash clothes and write.

I'm trying to treat the AOL hacking the same way. I'm trying to make it work for me. My new virtual mailbox is pretty bare. (Now that I think about it, our physical mailbox is bare too, but that's another story.) Those 60 yahoo groups I belong to have been trimmed. So have the e-newsletters. For a few days, I fell into that what's the point state of mind and unsubbed. I wasn't reading them anyway... just collecting them.

Now that I've crawled out of that what's the point state of mind, I can see that clutter, whether it's on your computer, in your email or physically around you, destroys creativity. Clutter weighs you down. Clutter becomes a habit. We (or I) accept it, live with it, without realizing how destructive it can be.

Without the clutter of my Home Sweet Home in Louisiana (we left all furniture behind), I'm writing more. Maybe without the clutter of my AOL email, I'll submit more.

Take a look at your writing life. If you aren't writing and submitting, you might need new surroundings. I'm not suggesting you move away, but try leaving home for a few hours each day to write in a new place: the library, a cafe, bookstore or coffee shop. If you think you'll do too much people watching, then don't comb your hair or wear make-up. Believe me, you won't look at anyone for fear they'll look back at you.

I used to think I couldn't write anywhere but in my own home. That's a lie we tell ourselves to hang on to our creature comforts. Take it from me, you can write anywhere.

ANYWHERE!

Are you writing? If not, why not? Frustration? Clutter? Have you fallen into that what's the point frame of mind? That's normal but don't hang out there too long. There's a reason you're there; find it. Get rid of it. And write.

J is for Jewelry-Making

Sometimes I get so discouraged with my writing that I threaten to quit and make jewelry. One birthday, my husband and daughter gave me a lot of jewelry-making supplies. I got all kinds of chains, ribbons, twine and turquoise--my favorite--and a plastic container with little compartments to keep it all neatly inside. I even visited a jewelry making  group. That’s the closest I’ve come to actually making good my threat.
I love jewelry fixings of all kinds. 

I’m not a shopper. No matter what I’m looking for, I end up at the jewelry counter of the store, perusing the jewelry. This is known as escape. Yes, I recognize it.

Even though I love the idea of creating one-of-a-kind bracelets, necklaces and earrings, and have several books showing me how, step by step, I don’t have the patience.  I wouldn’t be any better at making jewelry than I am at sewing.  Put a needle and thread in my hands and I'm disastrous! The idea of jewelry making is my escape.

What’s your escape when writing gets tough?