Today is my first day participating in the MAYbe blog challenge (if you remember, I just finished the April blog challenge and the Bible in 90 day challenge-- I'm big on challenges... )
Every day, we are supposed to write on a certain topic. Today's topic is: May I tell you something about myself?
Well, I'm doing the 'easy' thing and doing Kelly-- A to Z...
A is for Author (so do you actually have to have a book published to be called an 'author'?)
B is for birthday (2/15)
C is for Color, favorite (purple)
D is for dancing (because it's what my oldest daughter is doing right now... )
E is for enter (I love to enter writing contest and submit stories)
F is for fanfics (yep, I used to write them... )
G is for Google, Dr. (because I have ever ailment ever invented when I use that certain 'physician')
H is for headache (when someone taps something repeatedly, it gives me a headache).
I is for interesting. (which I'm sure... someone... somewhere... thinks I am... maybe... )
J is for juggling (Mamas... and Daddys you know what I'm talking about.)
K is for Kelly (my name).
L is for lavender (a smell that makes me sneeze).
M is for marriage (I've been married for almost 9 years... to the same feller)
N is for "No." (Because I have an almost 2 year old).
O is for October (my favorite month. I've always wanted a baby born in October-- alas I got pregnant in October-- twice.)
P is for printer (because it was broke and I was all upset because I couldn't print my book-- turns out it had a Chex Mix stuck in it.)
Q is for Quiet (because that's what it will be when my kids go to bed)
R is for read (because it's something I want to do more of this summer).
S is for special education (because I'm a special education preschool teacher).
T is for three (because I have three kids)
U is for unique (because I'm trying to break into Christian Young Adult novels-- one of the most unique ie small genres there is).
V is for victory (because of Jesus)
W is for write (have I mentioned I like to write?)
X is for X-ray (because I've never had one.. unless you count ultrasounds).
Y is for yellow (a color I don't like to wear).
Z is for Zelda (because she zoomed off to Mars-- It's a song we sing at school).
So... that's it.. me from A to Z. Next Tuesday, I'll have more about me.
Wednesday's topic is: May I ask something about you?...
CROSSING THE DEEP is up for BEST YA NOVEL at the Preditors and Editors Awards! This is the last day to vote! I can't tell you how much winning this would mean to me :)
Please, if you can, go to this link http://critters.org/predpoll/novelyoungadult.shtml and vote Crossing the Deep.
I think it would be so cool if a clean/Christian book won best YA! :)
It doesn’t matter where you are in your writing career, the doubt monster will strike.
You read books by your favorite authors and decide your writing will never measure up.
While you’re in queryland, a friend lands an agent and you start questioning if that will ever be you.
While your book is out on submission, someone you know dances around and screams that she’s signed a 3-book deal with a major publisher, and you wonder if you’ll even get a one-book deal with anyone. Period.
You self publish your book and look longing at the list of NYT and USA Today bestsellers, many who are self published in your genre (NA contemporary romance authors, I’m looking at you). Heck, you do this if your book is traditionally published, too.
You start freaking out as doubts slither in as to whether or not you’ll meet your publisher’s deadline.
As you approach your book’s launch date, you go through emotional outbursts similar to those experienced during pregnancy.
You book does better than expected, but now you worry that you’ll be a one-hit wonder and your publisher and agent will dump you after the sequel turns out to be lame.
No matter where you are on your publishing career path, the doubt monster will strike. Don’t be afraid of him. Embrace him. Let him help you push your writing to a new level.
And while you’re at it, sign up for the monthly support group hosted by Alex Cavanaugh. The Insecure Writer’s Support Group meets the first Wednesday of each month (I’ll be joining it in the fall).
GIVEWAY NEWS: Adventures in YA and Children’s Publishing blog is doing a HUGE giveaway (well, several actually) for both readers and writers. The giveaways run this past Saturday and Sunday and next weekend. You’ll want to check it out!
Today is a real treat :) I have Marsha Ward here today to talk a little about herself, how she writes, why she writes, and if she's a pantser or a planner... How did you become interested in the Civil War? Author Robert Newton Peck once said that every historical writer has their favorite war. While his was the French and Indian War, mine turned out to be the Civil War. I don’t know what sparked my passion for it. It could have been reading some of historian Bruce Catton’s work, or Gone With the Wind, during high school. My interest certainly did not stem from a personal or family issue, since none of my relatives fought on either side. If they had, they’ve have been Union soldiers, and my characters fought for the South. That said, my current novels actually have post-Civil War settings, dealing with the aftermath of that great struggle, so they fit more in the classification of Western Migration novels, or Settling of the West. Very cool. Tell us about your novels. The Man from Shenandoahbegins as Carl Owen returns from the Civil War to find the family farm destroyed, his favorite brother dead, food scarce, and his father determined to leave the Shenandoah Valley to build a cattle empire in Colorado Territory. Crossing the continent, Carl falls in love with his brother's fiancée while set to wed another girl, but he might lose everything if the murderous outlaw Berto Acosta has his way. Carl battles a band of outlaws, a prairie fire, blizzards, a trackless waterless desert, and his own brother-all for the hand of feisty Ellen Bates. Ride to Ratoncontinues from there: after losing the heart of his fiancée to his brother, James Owen leaves home to make a new life for himself. The turbulent world of post-Civil War Colorado Territoryis fraught with danger and prejudice that increase his bitter loneliness as personal setbacks threaten to break him. Then James's journey brings him into contact with another wayfarer, beautiful young Amparo Garcés, who has come from Santa Fe to Colorado to marry a stranger. Through a twist of fate, their futures are changed forever when their lives are merged in a marriage of convenience. James and Amparo undertake a hazardous horseback trek over Raton Passto Santa Fe, battling their personal demons, a challenging language barrier, and winter's raging storms. My third novel, Trail of Storms, goes back to tell the tale of a peripheral character from the first novel. Jessie Bingham and her family flee post-Civil War Virginia after her sister suffers a brutal attack, and together endure a perilous trek to New Mexico Territory. When she hears her former sweetheart, James Owen, has taken a wife, Jessie accepts Ned Heizer’s marriage proposal on the condition they wait until journey’s end to wed. But then Jessie encounters James again... and he isn’t married now! Spinster’s Follyis the fourth book in the series, and tells Marie Owen’s story. Marie lives in a land that is long on rough characters and short on fitting suitors. Her desire to get married before she winds up a spinster propels her into making hasty decisions that drive her into the arms of a sweet-talking predator, landing her in unimaginable dangers. Wow, all of those books sound like they would be great reads. How much research was necessary to make your books so historically believable and where did you conduct most of your research? Did you visit the locations where you set your novels? I read 150 books to research my first novel. Some I bought, but most came from the library. Over the years that I’ve been writing the series, I have been able to do some on-the-ground research, and I recently took a trip back East to visit Civil War battlefields and other areas in preparation to write my next book. I’ve also been amassing books on the Civil War in the last year. Lots of books! In the earlier years, I conducted several interviews with people familiar with the areas I wanted to learn about. Photographs were also helpful, as were the state guides produced as WPA projects during the Great Depression. I’ve found several very good online sources for research on my later books. Are you a pantser or a planner when you write? I definitely write by the seat of my pants, once I have an idea for a story and know who my characters will be. I’m doing more planning now than I used to, though, so I don’t spend way too much time rewriting. However, I’ll never again write a complete synopsis early-on. That doesn’t work for me, because my brain then thinks I’ve already written the book. While I’m writing, I make various charts and spreadsheets to help me analyze the number of occurrances of different points-of-view, and events within scenes. This helps the revision process goes faster. I now use a great writing software program called yWriter5, which allows me to focus on one scene at a time. This is important, so that I don’t become daunted by the vastness of the project. A huge upside to using it is that the software is free! I'm a writer too, so I like to ask other writers. 'What's your writing schedule like?' Very fragmented. I’m easily distracted, but when I’m white-hot in the initial draft, I can write for up to eight hours, broken up by short breaks. This is only possible because I live alone. I wish I had a better schedule. Almost every writer I know wishes the same thing!
I know I do lol... actually, I wish my fingers and eyelids kept up with my brain lol. Have you held a "day job" in addition to your writing? Yes. Through the years I mothered my children, and then worked as a journalist, an educator, and in a retail store. I’ve also volunteered with several organizations, doing websites, newsletters, and a multitude of other chores.
Something I'm always curious about... How do you promote your books? I have a website and a couple of blogs, I’m active on Facebook and other social media venues, and I’m always looking for ways to let people know I’m an author, such as giving talks and networking with various groups. I find that word of mouth from enthusiastic readers drives the most sales, though.
Advice to anyone contemplating writing a Civil War novel? Do thorough research, keep accessible notes, then let the fingers loose.
Finally, How would you like to be remembered? As a kind person who could write a little. Thank you so much, Marsha, for being on my blog today... and HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!!!!!
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(I love that book cover!!) What exactly is Spinster's Folly? Marie Owen yearns for a loving husband, but Colorado Territory is long on rough characters and short on fitting suitors, so a future of spinsterhood seems more likely than wedded bliss. Her best friend says cowboy Bill Henry is a likely candidate, but Marie knows her class-conscious father would not allow such a pairing. When she challenges her father to find her a suitable husband before she becomes a spinster, he arranges a match with a neighbor's son. Then Marie discovers Tom Morgan would be an unloving, abusive mate and his mother holds a grudge against the Owen family. Marie's mounting despair at the prospect of being trapped in such a dismal marriage drives her into the arms of a sweet-talking predator, landing her in unimaginable dangers. This fourth book in the Owen Family Saga is infused with potent heart and intense grit.
Marsha Ward is an award-winning writer and editor who has published over 900 pieces of work, including three previous novels in the Owen Family Saga, numerous newspaper articles, and sections in books on the craft of writing. She is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, and American Night Writers Association. Born a while ago in the sleepy little town of Phoenix, Arizona, Marsha grew up with chickens, citrus trees, and lots of room to roam. She began telling stories at a very early age, regaling neighborhood chums with her tales as they snacked on her homemade sugar cookies and drank cold milk. Visiting her cousins on their ranch and listening to her father's stories of homesteading in Old Mexico and in the Tucson area reinforced Marsha's love of 19th Century Western history. After many years in the big city, Marsha now makes her home in a tiny hamlet under Central Arizona's magnificent Mogollon Rim. When she is not writing, she loves to spoil her grandchildren, travel, give talks, meet readers, and sign books. Here are links to my author pages at Smashwords and Amazon: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/marshaward http://www.amazon.com/Marsha-Ward/e/B003RB9P9Q/ And links to my Social Media sites: Website: http://marshaward.com Author Blog: http://marshaward.blogspot.com Character Blog: http://charactersinmarshashead.blogspot.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authormarshaward Twitter: http://twitter.com/MarshaWard Online Book Release Event at Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/333393153425853/
"What is Love?" Bible Study Week 8 "Why Do We Show Love?"
Verse of the Week: 1 Corinthians 13:7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. ************************************ This week, we are going to talk more about the actions of love-- how you can show love in every day life. Sometimes people don't always tell you they love you, but you know they do by their actions. That is our topic today. Before we get into the post, I'd love for you to go back and re-read what you wrote in your notebook for your daily verses leading up to this week. Do any stand out to you? James 5:19-20 really stood out to me. "My dear brothers and sisters, if someone among you wanders away from the truth and is brought back, you can be sure that whoever brings that person back will save that person from death and bring about the forgiveness of many sins." To help bring a sinner back to the 'good side' saves that person from 'death'. I had never thought of it that way before. How can we do that if we don't love them? If we just give up on them? Truthfully-- we can't. Can you imagine the people who would (and have) gone to Hell because people have given up on them? That's not a great thought. That's why Paul was so big on us loving each other. People take care of those they love. If you try to love everyone, you will try to help them-- no matter what (now the ways of helping will be totally different, but the idea is the same). So far, we have learned about what love IS-- patient, kind, keeps no record of being wronged.. And... what love is NOT-- jealous, boastful, rude, demands its own way. Today, we will learn more as we complete the "Love is.." portion of this chapter. 1 Cor. 13:7Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.
Wow... that is a lot! A lot to take in-- and a lot to do!
But like we have talked about before, the point of this study is NOT to be perfect in this. It isn't going to make our heart magically grow 3 sizes and all of our actions show love toward all mankind. No. The point is to learn what love is so that we will be able to strive to show it well, and to know WHY we are showing love to others. (to encourage, to inspire, and to help to lead them to God) Notebook Question: Have you ever had someone in your life who you always saw the best in-- but everyone else thought you were silly-- even gullible-- for thinking that? What did you say to the 'naysayers'? How did it turn out? (Even if the 'world' was right and that person did end up treating you wrong, you did the right thing by showing them love. You can only do your part!) Paul said, "Love is always hopeful." Always hoping that today will be the day that that person gets their head out of the sand and changes. And it may never happen, we all know that. But we still have that hope. We have some people in our lives that will call us bat crazy for thinking like that! Paul didn't think you were crazy. He thought you were doing the right thing. He had the right idea. So, how in the world can we do (or attempt to do) all of these things? Truth be told, you can't do any of these things of the "world". There is no self-help book, no Dr. Phil show, no human device that can help you learn how to do it. It is through the Holy Spirit that we even have the chance-- the shot-- the attempt-- at true love (ok, that sounded a bit redundent, but you get the idea). I want you to think of certain situations going on in your life right now where you might need help showing love. Keep thinking of that circumstance as we go through each point in this verse and list ways we can show love based on it. If you have any other ideas, I'd love to hear them from you. You can leave them in comments if you'd like :) 1. Love Never Gives Up. *We've talked a little about this. If we love someone, we aren't going to give up on them-- HOWEVER, sometimes we don't have to keep giving them everything. Sometimes our prayers go along way past material things. Ideas on how to do this: *Continual prayers *Communication *Finding Available Resources to help that person 2. Love Never Loses Faith *It is so hard not to lose faith in someone, especially the 50th time they have done something to us. And the world may think we are crazy (and we might be), but Paul said that this is a part of showing love. Never losing faith-- and I'm going to add-- Never losing faith that GOD can/will change their life. Ideas on how to do this: *Pray *Believe in Matthew 19:26 (With God all things all things are possible.) *Sending encouraging messages 3. Love is Always Hopeful *Love always looks at the bright side... the glass is half full persona. Ideas on how to do this: *Look forward-- not backward *Never stops having faith *Be "Gullible" but not stupid 4. Love Endures through Every Circumstance *Everyone has bad days. Sometimes I feel like I'm having a bad week. We all have people in our lives that we just know that they have a gray cloud continually over their head (and it was probably put there themselves.) It is so easy not to show love to those kinds of people because (in our head) we know that it probably won't do any good. But our heart keeps enduring that hope that today will be the big turn around day. It may sound counterproductive, but it is what we are supposed to do. Ideas for how to do this: *Not being overwhelmed (a bit hard for me personally)-- even when the task seems large. *Know that "This too shall pass." *Focus on positive rather than negative Love can live on even through anger, bitterness, and sorrow. But it is like a seed that needs to be watered. If it is taken care of, it has strong roots that can endure strong wind storms. If its not, it will be washed away in a summer rainstorm. Through love, we can forgive, forget, and move on (not that it is easy). We can hope for the future, trust in the now, and rejoice in the truth-- that no matter what, God is God--- and God is good! Ok, during weeks 2-4 we studied why love was necessary-- Why we needed to love others. Then the past 4 weeks, we have discussed the actions of love. The verbs of love, if you will. For the remaining weeks, we will discuss the Supremacy of love. Why having and nurturing love in your heart for others is, in a word, awesome! Next week, we will be covering 1 Corinthians 13:8-10. Those verses fit so well together that it would be counterproductive to learn them apart.
Verses to Get us Ready for Next Week Tuesday~ John 13:34 Wednesday~ Ephesians 3:16-19 Thursday~ 1 Corinthians 13:8 Friday~ 1 Corinthians 13:9 Saturday~ 1 Corinthians 13:10
It's a little bittersweet. About a month ago, I started contacting blogs to see if I could possibly add them to my CROSSING THE DEEP book blog tour. Every blog, except maybe three that I never expected to answer anyway, either said they would OR they would do facebook/twitter posts.
All in all, I had EIGHTEEN blog stops! *thud*
Thanks to all of the blogs, the people who have put up with me for the past 2 weeks on this book blitz, readers, people who comment, buyers of the book, etc. It has been a pretty special 2 weeks for me. Here is a list of the participating blogs. Please go over and show them some love :) Oct. 8th Mom's Tool Box (How the Bible in 90 Days program Influenced me to write the book)
Oct. 9th: Shakin' the Foundation (Questioning your faith) Walking In Faith 4 Him (Forgiveness) A Word of Encouragement (Encouraging others)
Oct. 10th: K.Victoria Chase (Author Interview) Sweet Blessings (If God gives you the passion, He will give you the time.)
Oct. 11th: A Pause on the Path (Is your 'thing' what you expected?) Student, Mama, Cook (Time for yourself) A Song Along the Way (Young Adult Novels)
Oct. 12th: She Fancied Herself a Writer (How to manage -semi- chaos) I Love Devotionals (Unto the End of the World)
Oct. 15th: Undivided (When you see no way out)
Oct. 16th: Do This in Remembrance of Me (Alone in a Crowded Room.. or Forest) Daily Surrender to Jesus (Author Interview)
Oct. 17th: Imitation by Design (Why I write Christian Fiction for Young Adults)
Oct. 18th: My Daily Walk in his Grace (When We Know Better)
Oct. 19th: Just a Little Place to Write (A Wild and Crazy Ride to Publication) Keepin' It Real (Author Interview)
** THANKS TO LAURA from Beholding Glory and Cyndi from Walk in Grace and Beauty for tweeting and facebooking about the book release :) And, of course, it wouldn't be a book blitz without buy links ;)
BUY LINKS:Amazon Barnes and Noble Astraea Press Wow! A great read for teens or adults. Wonderfully written. From a great start to a fantastic finish. I can't wait for her next book.-- Review from AMAZONBought this book today and cannot put it down! I will be finished by tomorrow and I am so excited as each new chapter and character develops! -- Review from AMAZONKelly Martin is an amazing author! She really sets the bar high for her first novel. I really enjoyed reading this book. The descriptions of the Smokies alone make you feel like you are right there with the characters. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from her -- Review from Amazon... If you enjoy fiction (and even if fiction isn't really you're thing) you'll be entertained by this young adult novel. I would certainly recommend it for any lover of a good action/adventure story. -- Review from AMAZON
Today's letter in the A to Z challenge from http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/ is... Q is for Query. Do you know what a query is? I had no idea what it was until I started trying to learn how to find an agent. A query is a letter, proposal, fight for your book's life that you send to an agent. It (in between 200 and 500 words) tells an agent everything they need to know about your 50,000+ masterpiece. In a word: it's difficult. I'm not good at them yet. I'll admit that, but I like it. I'd buy the book if I were an agent ;) The thing about sending a query is that you inevidably (unless you are extremely luckly) will get a rejection. (REJECTION will be our R letter tomorrow. I have a neat little post written for that letter-- stay tuned--). Are you good at writing queries? If you don't write them, are you good at summarizing? What resources did you find helpful? I LOVE absolutewrite.com. They have a great spot to post your queries (if you don't mind getting beat up a few times for it ;) ) Don't forget to come back tonight and tomorrow for the very first 'Faith-Fiction Friday' post/link-up/writing frenzy. Your support is humbly, beggingly, and lovingly appreciated. Much Love,
This is the last week to enter to win one of 5 free PDF Advanced Review Copies of THE DECEPTION OF DEVIN MILLER (coming out July 23rd). Click here to enter!
Blurb : Forced by his father into a marriage he didn’t want, Prince Alan soon finds that his bride isn’t the sweet, submissive creature he expected. Morgane has the heart of a dragon and beauty beyond compare, but she isn’t thrilled about the marriage either. When black treachery threatens the kingdom, Morgane and Alan embark on a perilous journey that has an excellent chance of ending in failure and death for them and all their people.
Excerpt : Morgane advanced on her enemy with deadly purpose. "No!" Alan roared. "She has a knife." Morgane tried to retreat, but it was too late. Aili's knife caught her in her thigh. Blood spurted as if from a fountain. Renweard was closer to her than Alan. His sword rose. Aili breathed her last as Morgane swayed and slipped to the floor. Alan ran across the room and cradled her in his arms. In seconds he was coated with blood. "ʺWe must stop the bleeding!" he cried. "Where are the healers?" ʺI will find one." Renweard left the room at a run with King Bowdyn right behind him. Morgane's eyes fluttered open. "Your arms around me. No heaven can compare.ʺ Alan pressed a kiss to her hair. "I love you, my brave Morgane." Morgane sighed. "I could not let you face this battle alone.ʺ Author’s Note : After spending most of the last ten years writing contemporary romance, I decided it was time for a change. So in the spring of 2012 I wrote my first romantic fantasy, The Enchanted. Several challenges immediately presented themselves. First, I knew that I didn't want the fantasy to overpower the romance which meant I'd have to balance my world building details with the romantic elements.
Challenge two was finding characters who'd fit into my newly created world. I didn't want plastic, stereotypical characters. I wanted real people with warts and human imperfections, people whose lives and problems would draw you in and make you care about them.
My third challenge was to craft a plot that included fantasy elements, yet at the same time allowed my characters to be in charge of their own destiny and in the process grow and change.
I'm pleased with the way it turned out. I enjoyed the experience so much I have another fantasy/sci fi romance in the wings waiting for December and its turn at publication. Given my new love affair with fantasy romance, will I write contemporary romance again? I sure will. I'm working on one right now, and I just love it. It will be my first full length romantic comedy. Author Links: http://www.elainecantrell.com http://www.elainepcantrell.blogspot.com http://www.twitter.com/elainecantrell http://www.facebook.com/elainepcantrell The Enchanted is sold at most online retail outlets. Reviews: A sweet story, easy read, fairytale/fantasy/romance 5 stars. Teresa Cypher on Amazon A wonderful story that has swept into my heart. I will be remembering this one for a long time and reading it again. Tifferz Book Reviews on Goodreads
It's Friday again (has another week already gone by!), and that means two things. One: it is faith fiction Friday @ Faith Filled Fiction AND Two: it is 5 Minute Friday @ Lisa-Jo Baker.
I'd love for you to check them both out.
What is 5 minute Friday?
Basically, you sit your bottom in a chair, read the prompt, and write on the prompt for 5 minutes... The kicker is you can't go back and edit (for content anyway... I do use my backspace, silly Kelly). It's time to let your imagination run while.
This week's word is: RISK
GO
I'm not much one for taking risks. Seriously, I would rather stay at home than drive somewhere (even though I do). I'm not thrilled with trying new foods, and I HATE Ferris wheels (I'm all Ryan Atwood that way-- OC reference-- so shows my age... )
So, a few months ago when I decided to write a book, I hesitated a bit because it was a risk. Now, I wasn't going to die (like I might on the Ferris wheel... in my mind anyway), but it was hard putting myself out there. I've gotten used to it now.
I'm more of an introverted person. I don't talk a lot if I don't know you... not that I don't want too... but because I don't know exactly what to say. I don't want to risk sounding silly or stupid or weird.
I do want to say that some risks are good (writing a book, doing something you have always wanted to do, getting on that blasted Ferris wheel when your 6 year old says it will be ok because she will hold your hand... ). Some risks aren't (gambling your last money away, tempting God, etc). Before you do anything that might be considered risky, pray about it.
That said... what would life be without a little risk...
STOP
Yeah... that was a total ramble. Sorry about that.
(photo courtesy of my 7 year old and my cellphone... ) One thing a lot of author's dream about is holding a copy of their book. After nearly 9 months as an ebook, I'm finally getting to hold mine! CROSSING THE DEEP and SAINT SLOAN are NOW IN PAPERBACK!!!! (( My kids are so excited! They keep jumping up and down and kissing me :) They think it's neat to see ole Mama's name on a book cover. I'm with them on that...)) You can buy them from Amazon as a paperback or anywhere ebooks are sold as... well... an ebook. Couldn't wait to share this with you guys!
Enter to win a free advanced review copy of my newest book, THE DECEPTION OF DEVIN MILLER, releasing July 23rd!!
**Before I tell you my happy dance news, I'd LOVE if you'd click over and read this week's story at Faith Filled Fiction. Stacey has done a great job writing it! I know you will be blessed.
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Last night, I made my first $0.24 as a writer!
This morning, I made my first $0.48!
I wrote the Ruth Bible Study for the Women's Ministry at church. I put it on Smashwords for free download, but I had some wonderful friends who said they didn't want it for free... they wanted to BUY it (awesome friends!).
So, I put it on createspace...
And now it's on Amazon!
Ignore the fact that it has Mrs. Kelly Martin as the author (it grates my nerves, but my husband thinks it's sweet ;)).
A five part Bible Study on the book of Ruth. This humorous and heartfelt study brings the verses to life and shows how love and respect can change the world. If you are interested in learning more or are interested in buying it, please click HERE. You can also download the free eBook version by clicking the link on the sidebar :) *If you're wondering about the other books... 'Crossing the Deep' is still being queried to agents and publishers. If it doesn't get picked up, it's ok. I'll work on it and probably self-publish it (now that I kinda know how). *I'm 44,000 thousand words into my second book. (Thanks campnanowrimo! :)) It reminds me of "The OC meets God"... I'll probably finish it up this week, then do edits. The PLAN is to not rush edits like I did the first book and do it right the first few times. Both are Young Adult/Christian books which are REALLY hard to sell to agents/publishers, but that's ok. If they are meant to be published, they will be. I just love writing them. Much Love, Kelly Linked with: Women Living Well Wednesday
I've very excited to be one of the hosts for the Astraea Press 2013 Fan Fest!! What does this mean for you? Well, lots of prizes (over 60!!! From ebooks, print books, a month of free PR from an amazing Publicist, swag packs... just to name a few things being given away!)
There will be over 40 authors there to chat with, mingle with, and win prizes from!
AND... the grand prize is a KINDLE FIRE ! (I wish I could win it! My Nook has just about had it... )
How do you enter to win the KINDLE FIRE? Easy. Rafflecopter easy :) The winner will be announced after the party on July 16th.
You can follow along at the official facebook page (where all the prizes and fun will be given away HERE or on twitter HERE GOOD LUCK! And I can't wait to see you at the 2013 Astraea Press Fan Fest on Facebook :)
"Brag on God" Friday is a link-up with http://www.beholdingglory.com/ where you write something Awesome about God. Well... that sounds easy, doesn't it? lol
And it is... Well it's Easy to THINK Of things that God has done awesome this week... and every week.
But when I started trying to actually write it down, it wouldn't come out for some reason. I tried to write this last night... and I got nowhere... not that I couldn't think of a million things to write about... but because I couldn't write it down (writers block I guess... )
Anyway, I'm glad I didn't end up posting what I was *trying* to write last night, because while taking a shower this morning, I found the exact words I wanted to say this morning... yeah, I was happy! :)
I was taking a shower and thought, "God, I know you do all of this stuff for me... every second... every day... but I can't find the words." And the thought popped in my head, "Well, you got up this morning, didn't you?"
ANDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD the ball started rolling lol.
I'd like my first official "Brag On God Friday" to be about His just letting me wake up this morning. He didn't have too. There is no rule that says, "Kelly MUST wake up every day until she is 100 when she will die in her sleep." Nope... not written in any book I've ever read. So the sheer fact that I can sit here and type this... is a big God brag.
Then once I started thinking about that... the ball just got rolling.
Another thing that I've talked about this week that I've done is called S.O.A.P (Click the link next to this post). You pray, find a scripture, observe what it means, apply it to your life, and pray. It's really really REALLY neat! Honestly, its so cool how God can talk to you... with words over 2000 years old!
I won't be posting all of my 'SOAP' writings because I think they are personal, however I will type out one or two scriptures I used. Some of you know what I've been thinking about this week (Um... Spud is one of the top things lol... No you aren't the only one that thinks its weird that I named the 'mole' lol). There are others, and the verses that I found this week go either directly to that or other things that I want/am thinking about.
James 4:2--You desire and do not have, so you murder, you covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have because you do not ask. (Yeap, that wholloped me right upside ye ole head!)
Matthew 21:22-- And all things whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall recieve. (If I pray, and don't believe it... what good does it do?)
Luke 1:37-- For nothing is impossible with God. (That's where the Big and Small posts came from)
Proverbs 3:6-- Seek the Lord in all you do and He will show you which path to take.
Luke 2:36-- Anna, a prophet, was also in the Temple. (Anna had 2 things against her... well 2 things we'd consider NOW DAYS against her. 1. she was old. 2. she was a woman. God can use old, young, men, AND women to spread His word. Somehow I needed to know that this week.)
There are MANY many more (I've kinda been on a SOAP binge this week lol).
THE POINT IS: My 'Brag on God' today is that 1. He let me wake up. 2. He let my kids wake up. 3. He gave me these verses when I REALLY needed them the most. The Bible is huge, but 'somehow' (well *I* know how, but you get the idea) those popped out when I needed them the most.
**Remember, Our bathrooms are due tomorrow! I got one closet finished... gotta work on the other... I WILL get it finished by tomorrow though! HUZZAH!**
Please watch it. I think I did a bad thing by saying that it 'was no big deal'... I think I was trying to make myself feel better. I feel bad for saying that. A mole.. especially a mole like 'Spud' that changes over time, is very much a big deal. If you have any suspecious mole, PLEASE get it checked out. Don't wait like I did.
I still won't know my biopsy results for another 1 1/2 weeks.
But still.. my kids will never go outside without sunscreen again. I have 2 redheads. My oldest is so pale she's 'see-through'.
So... please watch the video. If you have a suspecious mole, go to your doctor. A biospy isn't fun, but it's better than the alternative.
Oh, and if you don't mind, share the link around on your blog, on you facebook, on your twitter, on your message boards. It's a good video and can help save lives.
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This Friday, I'm linking up with Gypsy Mama for 5 Minute Friday. It's simple. She posts a topic, and you write for 5 minutes (with no edits... eek).
Today's topic is: Path
GO
I've been thinking a lot this week on the paths of our lives and how we end up on the right one. In Proverbs, it says God will move our feet to the right path (paraphrasing of course, since it would take the entire 5 minutes to find it... )
But what if (it's been one of those What If weeks) we have no idea what path God wants us on. What if we *think* we know, but then we just don't.
I've known people who have had one path, then a tragic event happens and their lives are thrown on a totally different trajectory. But maybe that was the plan all along. Maybe they (and I) have to go through times of doubts to get us in a place we need to be.
To tell you the truth, my path to becoming a Special Education teacher wasn't a very conventional one, but I wouldn't trade it for anything.
And I'm sure it will be that way with other paths. If it's supposed to be, it will be. :)
I'm sitting here looking at the 'Footprints in the sand' bookmark that I gave the winners of the Bible in 90 Days. There are 2 sets of footprints in the sand: 2 paths. Then suddenly there is one path, because Jesus took over and carried 'me'. That's how I feel. Jesus and I are walking along the beach, but soon, there will only be one set of footprints because he will carry me where I need to go.
He will you too, friend. I've read a lot of posts this week on not giving up (must be a theme, or it's just me seeing it... ). If you don't know your path, you will find it. If you need help, Jesus will carry you.
STOP
I promise I will post 'happy' stuff next week :) It's been a learning week for me (and that's ok.)
I've used this picture before and I'll use it again.
Today, I just didn't want to do anything. I'll be quite honest with you. The only thing I wanted to do is sit on the computer and 'Google' (do the kids still say that? Or is it 'bing' now? Whatever, you get the idea.. I wanted to browse the World Wide Web for information)
I had every excuse in the book for not wanting to do anything, of course. Spud got evicted today (well partly evicted. Doc ended up doing a shave biopsy instead of a punch. IF it is cancer, I have to go back in 2 weeks and have this all done again with a punch biopsy... Yip to the eee. I'll take a few extra prayers in that department if you happen to think of it. I really don't want that done again. Have I mentioned before that I'm a big baby when it comes to pain????)
When you don't want to do something, what motivates you to do it? One of my biggest motivations is this blog. This is my accountibility. I don't want to be a hyprocrit and say something here that I don't do. I haven't missed one night of my cleaning list since I started this... and I don't plan too (Unless I'm just really sick... or not home.) I don't say that to brag... I say that to hopefully encourage you. "What Would Kelly Clean?" after all lol...
Another thing I have learned is that even if *I* don't feel well (both physically and spiritually), I can open my Bible and find something to motivate me. Yesterday, I found something called SOAP.
I encourage each of you to visit that site and see what SOAP is all about. I've done five or six scriptures last night and today using it and it REALLY lets you see what the Bible says to you and has FOR you... So far, it has really motivated me!
Scriptures motivate me. This one from Luke motivated me today. Luke 8:15--And the seeds that fell on the good soil represent honest, good hearted people. Who hear God's Word, cling to it, and patiently produce huge harvests (I'm more of a 'I want it now' type of person... ) That scripture motives me to keep blogging.
On top of accountibality and scriptures, my other motivation is pride. Ok, I know it's a deadly sin and all, but I don't think it's horrible to feel proud in yourself (as LONG as it doesn't go overboard... Pride comes before the fall after all). I do feel proud when I'm not feeling well and I DO complete my chores... and I DO blog... and I DO read my Bible. I feel accomplishment I guess more than pride. Yeah, accomplishment is a MUCH better word. Feeling good about yourself is an awesome motivation. We all need it!
So, again I ask... what is your motivation? What makes you want to do... well anything? What makes you want to clean? To read blogs? To tell people about God? To be a happy homemaker? To take pictures? Whatever it is... what is your motivation? You have to know... because sometimes you forget what it is. Motivation is a sneaky little snake. Sometimes slithers away when you need it the most.
You don't have to tell me. It's personal and it's yours. It's just something good to know for those rainy days when not completing your 'to do list' seems oh so appealing...
Sorry this has been all over the place. This is like the 3rd draft of this particual blog post. I can't seem to get my thoughts in the order I want... Spud is starting to hurt though and I'm going to have to publish this like it is... flaws and all (imagine that).
Much love, happy cleaning, and find out what motivates you... for days when you aren't really that motivated.
Kelly
For the record, yes I completed my "To Do" List tonight :) Huzzah! I found some motivation...
First, I’d like to give a big thank you to Kelly for allowing me to host her blog! I truly appreciate her sharing her readers with me as I celebrate the release of my debut novel. Along the Way Home. How a Stinging Rejection Led to a Book Contract Signing with Astraea Press wasn't a decision I took lightly. At the time the contract was offered (on my birthday!!!!!) I had six agents and three editors (Medallion Press, Tor/Forge, and a small press) reviewing requested partials/fulls, an R&R offer from an agent, and an offer pending from another small press.
I happily walked away from all of the above because I believe so strongly in Astraea Press, and the niche they’ve carved out for themselves in an increasingly crowded marketplace.
What does that mean? Let me backtrack a bit and reveal something that happened in January of 2013 that perfectly illustrates why I chose to go with Astraea.
I was rejected by an agent who called my book lovely and sweet, raved about my writing and the storyline, but ended with the statement, “…let your characters engage in sex and describe the sex. As it stands, I’ll pass. Put the sex in and I’ll take another look.”
I assure you, I have thick skin when it comes to rejections. I’ve racked up my fair share since I began querying, and normally take them with a grain of salt (and chocolate—lots of chocolate), but this one really bothered me. I understand if a rejection is based upon my writing style, the likability of my characters, or a flaw in the storyline—but to be rejected solely on the basis that I choose NOT to include sex? That one didn't go over well.
So much so that I finally decided it was time to query the one publisher I’d had my eye on for months. A publisher that cares not only for the authors, but for the kind of work they attach their name to. I'd discovered Astraea Press before I started querying in September and really liked the stance the owner, Stephanie Taylor, took against unnecessary sex.
Bottom line, I’m proud to have my book published with Astraea Press!
I’d love to hear from you. What is a dream you never gave up on?
They lost everything but their dreams on the Oregon Trail… Kate Davis is intrigued when her father reveals his dream of starting a horse ranch in Oregon Territory. Settlers out west value a strong woman, and though she manages the financials of her father’s mercantile her competence earns her ridicule, not respect, from Virginia’s elite society. Jake Fitzpatrick, an experienced trail guide, wants land out west to raise cattle and crops. But dreams require money and he’s eating dandelion greens for dinner. So when a wealthy businessman offers double wages to guide his family across the Oregon Trail, Jake accepts with one stipulation—he is in complete control. Departure day finds Kate clinging to her possessions as Jake demands she abandon all he deems frivolous, including her deceased mother’s heirlooms. Jake stands firm, refusing to let the whims of a headstrong woman jeopardize the wages he so desperately needs—even a beautiful one with fiery green eyes and a temper to match. Trail life is a battle of wills between them until tragedy strikes, leaving Jake with an honor-bound promise to protect her from harm and Kate with a monumental choice—go back to everything she’s ever known or toward everything she’s ever wanted? Advance Praise for Along the Way Home …author Christi Corbett unfurls an unforgettable epic romance inside of an epic Western adventure. Beautifully crafted, this debut novel is a tender journey of the heart as well as a treacherous journey of many miles. Eve Paludan, author of Taking Back Tara (Ranch Lovers Romance series) A breathtaking account of courage and adventure along the Oregon Trail. Jillian Kent, author of The Ravensmoore Chronicles. A dash of action! A touch of intrigue! Loads of sweet, clean romantic promise… Reid Lance Rosenthal, Winner of 15 National Awards, #1 Best Selling Author of the Threads West, An American Sagaseries.
BUY LINKS: AMAZON
BARNES AND NOBLE
ASTRAEA PRESS About Christi
I’m addicted to coffee, sticky notes, and the Oxford Comma. I live in a small town in Oregon with my husband and our twins. Our home’s location is especially inspiring because the view from the back door is a hill travelers looked upon years ago as they explored the Oregon Territoryand beyond. Along the Way Home is a Sweet Historical Romance. It released in ebook format on June 11, 2013 and will be available in print July of 2013. It is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Astraea Press (my publisher) and several other retailers. When I’m not writing I love chatting with readers and writers alike. You can find me in one of the following locations: Email: christicorbett@gmail.com Blog: http://christicorbett.wordpress.com Twitter: @ChristiCorbett Facebook: Christi Corbett—Author
I tell ya... the girls' little devotional book is at it again... If you didn't read it before, we are reading the 365 Very Veggie Devos for Kids that I talked about here before bed every night. Some of them, I think, are hitting me more than them lol. Maybe I'm just older, and they mean more to me. Or maybe God marked this book 50% off (so the ole stingy Mama would buy it) for a reason... hmmmmmm...
Tonight's devotional is about Thinking Before you Speak...
OH MAN!
I am trying so hard with this one. I promise I am. I've gotten to the point where I say, "Now, I know I shouldn't be saying this... but... " I had a Sunday School teacher tell us once that it was always what was AFTER the 'but' that people truly meant. You've been around people (I'm SURE you have if you live in the South) who say, "Oh, bless their heart, but that girl is as loose as a goose!" If you take the 'disclaimer' out of "Bless her heart" well, it's not the best sentence in the world, is it?
My big one, like I said, is "Now, I know I shouldn't be saying this... but... "
Well, foot, if I KNOW I'm not supposed to be saying it.. then why say it? (Because I'm human and my mouth likes to jabber lol)
Did your Mama ever say "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all." Yeah...
Yet something else to work on...
Now, I have to admit, I got kinda discouraged about that. Something *else* to be thinking about. Don't gossip, say nice words, let my actions speak more than my words... that's a LOT to think about, and that's not even the half of what we are 'supposed' to do... but God knows I'm not perfect (Thank goodness!). He knows that I make mistakes. He knows that as much as I try, my mouth jabbers sometimes before I can stop it (I really need to take more time before I speak sometimes.. probably would keep me out of some situations... ). The great thing about God is that you can just ask for forgiveness... and if you are saved, then you get it (or as my kids say, "God's happy again.")
Sorry, I've been posting so much lately. I have a lot going on here lately (well, a lot for me), and when I'm a bit nervous, I ramble (but the good thing about blogging is that I have the backspace to keep me from saying too much lol)
On that note, much love, happy cleaning, and think before you speak... or blog... or facebook... or twitter... And if when you mess up, ask for forgiveness. (Ok, today's little kiddy devo divine 'beating' wasn't as bad as some of the others lol)
Kelly
P.S. if you want you can buy the little 365 Very Veggie Devos for Kids book (that likes to whack me upside my spiritual head) here. It really is a good little book.
Don't forget to enter to win one of five free advanced review copies of, THE DECEPTION OF DEVIN MILLER. CLICK HERE for details...
During her junior year, sixteen-year-old Maggie Reynolds expected to shop for prom dresses not maternity clothes. Now, instead of studying for the SATs, she’s reading, What to Expect When You’re Expecting. Maggie’s ‘Mother Dearest’ lives in fear that Maggie will somehow taint the family name, so Maggie can’t turn to her for help. Meanwhile, her father is oblivious to anything but his 9-9 job. And her boyfriend, Justin? She’s pretty sure he’ll stay by her side. While Maggie wrestles with her options, Justin offers a solution: abortion. It would solve all her problems quickly, easily, and effectively. And her parents would never know, which means they won’t throw her out and cut her off like they’d always threatened if she got herself knocked up. But an easy decision becomes difficult when Maggie’s aunt discovers her secret and sets out on a mission to stop the abortion, putting a kink in Maggie’s plan. Now Maggie must decide which choice she can live with: abortion or teenage motherhood. Either way, it’ll be a tough road to travel.
*Young Adult RONE finalist award and the USA Best Book Award finalist in Youth Issues
* Special Note: At What Cost can be purchased for 99 cents at Amazon and Barnes& Noble for this week only!
“You’re pregnant?” It was a harsh half statement, half question punctuated with clenched teeth.
“Wha—?” Maggie was too shocked to realize what had happened, but when she looked back to where she stood, she spotted a sheepish looking Lauren mouthing the words, “I’m sorry.” “Ugh.” “Well, are you?”
His grip on her tightened. “Justin, you’re hurting my arm.”
He let go and motioned for her to sit with a quick thrust of his hand toward the table, but his eyes revealed his anger. He was furious, but then she saw a hint of fear hidden behind his golden irises. In those moments, she was five years old again, the day she’d broken her mother’s favorite vase. Her mother had loomed over her, drilling her for information. Pointed and yelled.
This time, it was Justin. “Are you, or aren’t you?” His eyes crinkled, his brow furrowed, and a deep crease appeared on his forehead.
Trying to control his reactions proved to be impossible, and soon, his leg bounced under the table, and he wiped the nervous sweat on his palms off on his jeans. This still wasn’t the place to talk. The cement walls of the school were beginning to feel like a jail cell; anywhere she went, Maggie felt trapped.
“Can we talk about this after school?” Maggie said, trying to be assertive. His knuckles turned white as he clenched his fists.
“No, we can’t. If you’re pregnant, I need to know.”
This wasn’t how she had pictured it. She was supposed to plan the conversation and the place. Definitely not in the corner of the cafeteria with people walking by who might hear her secret, a secret she hadn’t decided how to handle. Thank you so much, Lauren!
Justin grabbed her wrists from across the table. “Maggie, it’s a simple yes or no question. Are. You. Pregnant?”
She could feel the rage rolling off him in waves, and she knew stalling was not an option.
“Yes.”
The silence grew louder, and Justin didn’t move. He stared at her, his eyes shifting across her eyes in a quick staccato. She didn’t know she could feel so uncomfortable, so she tried to ease that discomfort by looking away. When she met his gaze again, he glared at her, not saying a word. He never spoke. Not when he let go of her wrists, not when he got up from the seat across from her, not when he left the room. Not a single word.
Author Info: Jessie Andersen lives in a small town in Western New York with her husband and three kids. A former English teacher, she now spends her time writing while the kids are at school and the baby is sleeping. She volunteers at the local library and sings in the church band. You can find information about her books at her website, and you can follow her blogs at her personal blog and her book blog. You can also follow her on Twitter and on Facebook.
