Patricia PacJac Carroll

You can do it, Monday!

2012-01-30T09:42:00.002-06:00

I think I can, I think I can....
Remember that little book of the little train?
Start the day proclaiming that you can do it! Don't let the naysayers get an edge. Begin knowing that you've been given this day and along with it, the Lord has given you what you need to accomplish your goals.

So, what are your goals? Do you have any?

I am usually very goal challenged. I write by the Seat-of-my-pants and tend to live that way. But I am entering into a new chapter in my life. And I have things I need to accomplish.
Goals of the week

Edit 10 chapters on Liberty Belle
Write 3 chapters on my new WIP

I can do this. I think I can, I think I can, I think I can.

Next Monday - I'll let you know how I did.

From Inspirational Spark

"A goal is a dream with a deadline."

~ Napoleon Hill

The Publishing Road

2012-01-28T10:55:00.001-06:00

Just where am I on this road to publishing?

I do have 4 books finished. At least they have 'The End' attached to the last page.
Of course they all need their final editS and that is edit with a capital S.
I want them to be the best that I can make them.

The first book jumping out of the computer and into publish land, is Liberty Belle.
As you can see, I have the front cover finished thanks to Delia Latham. She was a pleasure to work with.

But what do I have to do now? This very day?
EDIT

So, beside working on my blog, I am going to have a quiet Saturday afternoon with Liberty Longstreet, Aunt Flora, and of course Sheriff Wade Calder. I'll let them tell me a thing or two that will enhance and tighten their story.

Till next week.

Things I will need to do before I publish Liberty Belle:

of course finish the edit
line up endorsements
reviews
blog interviews
formatting for E-pub
finish back cover of book
Pray
Pray a lot

God is Good

2012-01-27T10:57:00.000-06:00

I am embarking on the great E-pub journey. My first book - Liberty Belle - will hit the cybershelf in May, 2012

There were many reasons to jump the traditional fences of the traditional publishing route.

I am not traditional : )
I love my freedom
I believe the Lord has directed me on this path (really the number one reason)
Ability to be published this year rather than waiting - waiting - waiting

Keep in touch and I'll update my blog on what I learn about the process.

Time to get down to business.

2011-09-30T10:44:00.002-05:00

The business of writing that is. I have proposals to finalize and send out.

I can do this.

Check out a short story I wrote about time at Fliterary

http://www.fliterary.com/

Enjoy and write!!

Next week is here!

2011-09-19T09:56:00.003-05:00

The ACFW conference begins Thursday morning. Can't wait.

This year I'll be driving with my friend and fellow wordsmith, Betty Woods. So looking forward to the adventure the Lord has set before us.

I am thankful for all the prayers of those lifting up this conference. Thankful that American Christian Fiction Writers organization exists. Dedicated to helping those called to write stories that will prick, convict, lift up, console, and change hearts.

I am leaving tomorrow. Have I packed yet - no. But I am thinking about it. : )

Will check in and let you know how the conference is going. I am sure my brain will be filled with useful ways in which to write better.

When I get back, look out world. I intend to write like the wind and finish books started. And who knows how many stories will attack me and beg to be written.

See you in St. Louis.

ACFW Conference Next Week!

2011-09-15T12:07:00.002-05:00

YES! My pup, JACS, perked his ears at my exclamation. Yes, I exclaimed. Am I ready?

I thought so last week : )

ACFW - American Christian Fiction Writers - a wonderful organization of Christian writers dedicated to the excellence of writing and helping one another.

If you are writing in a lonely little cubbyhole, check out this organization : http://www.acfw.com/

Well, off to work on those One Sheets, first chapters, and getting my mind focused on the Lord.

Words

2011-09-11T10:39:00.002-05:00

Words! As writers that's our business. As Christians, we must weigh our words carefully.

Proverbs 15:23
A man has joy in an apt answer, And how delightful is a timely word!

Proverbs 25:11
Like apples of gold in settings of silver Is a word spoken in right circumstances.

Matthew 12:36
But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment.

With a word, we can tear down or build up. Speak and write, death or life. We must choose our words wisely.

As writers, especially on the Internet, we must remember that these black and white thoughts will go on. They will not be deleted or erased by time.

Make a choice to write words that lead people to life.

Getting it together

2011-09-05T15:32:00.003-05:00

Yikes! The ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) Conference is only a few weeks away. Am I ready? Well I am getting there. I have my one sheets almost ready to print. My books, I have three finished, are nearing their final edits.

I am excited. I see opportunity on the horizon. And it's there if you want to go after it.

Write! Diligently and then write some more.

Just a quick note and update.

My website is under construction.

Check out my new blog

2010-12-22T18:45:00.002-06:00

Taking a break over here and am on a mission.

You'll find me at 100 Mornings with the Son

http://100morningswiththeson.blogspot.com/

I got an IPhone!

2010-09-03T13:43:00.003-05:00

I am finally joining the 21st century. After years of the old Star-Trek style flip phone, I now have a sleek mini computer -phone. Amazing technology. Still trying to learn what the thing can do. Finally figured out how to call and send texts.

I love it! Well, not really love, but I like it a lot. : )

I am so blessed to live in this age of technology. Now I need the discipline on how to live with it. So many blogs, so many sites to search, so many games to play. Lord teach me to use the wonders you've given me and let them be tools and not distractions from the things I am to accomplish.

New Glasses

2010-08-27T17:52:00.000-05:00

I have new glasses. Things aren't blurry. I am in focus!
If only it were that easy.

But maybe it is. As a writer, I have got to focus on the story that I am working on. Sounds easy, but distractions leap out at me and...well, you know.

I guess bifocals are out. Now, theses lens are called progressive. So I have to train my eyes to look out of the right spot to see clearly. Again sounds simple. The Eye Doc even said it's the brain that has to work.

Hmm, so it is my brain, my choice that needs to see what I need to work on. Okay brain. I will look at the lens of my things to do and train you to look through the proper site so I can accomplish what I need to do.

Writing Wednesday - A tribute to authors.

2010-02-03T12:54:00.002-06:00

Today I thought I would write a tribute and encouragement to authors. Those brave souls that bleed on paper and write their most inner thoughts for the world to see. The scribes who pull down the stories to tell and entertain, teach, challenge and encourage readers. Books have challenged nations to change course, cultures to come to grips with their shortcoming, and individuals to better themselves. Anyone can pick up a book and say "I could write better than that." Maybe, maybe not. But those who have stuck it out and written into the late hours of the night, edited until they were cross-eyed, and carried a story to through the end. THANK YOU. The world needs authors. Now more than ever. With the e-book, thoughts and stories will circle the planet in lightning speed. Available to any with Internet access. SO to those brave scribes who have been called by the Lord - WRITE. Go after the stories HE has given you and give the world what only you can give. AS Christians, we carry the hope of the world inside us. Show it in your stories, let readers know and see the hope of Glory in your writing. NOW is the TIME.

The Happy Papillon List

2010-01-29T17:21:00.003-06:00

Okay - so my little dog is a bit snarky.

His name is JACS. And we've had him 7 years and wouldn't trade a thing for him. But he has this habit of griping at almost everything. And the result is what I call the 'alien face'. All it takes is for you to talk about his collar.

After putting up with a face only a mother could love, I came up with an idea. The happy list. I began to tell him all the things he likes - Mocha, [his girlfirend that lives next door, a chocloate lab I might add], PetSmart, biscuits, Grandpa, balls, riding in the truck, pizza, turkey, and whatever else I could think of that he loves.

As I was doing this, I could feel the Lord tap me on the shoulder. Hmmm, I guess I can get snarky, too. So now I have my Happy Patty List.

I encourage you --when the clouds of depression sit on your head, or when the storms of a life lived with those other people on the planet threaten to flood you with negativity, or maybe when your to-do list is longer than the Bible -- to start repeating your Happy list. In fact, this sounds a lot like the verse in Philippians.

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

So how does it work? Look at picture #2, taken immediately after we started the Happy Papillon List.

One Thing

2010-01-25T15:31:00.002-06:00

One of those days when I felt so far away from God and He seemed to be even farther away from me, I cried out and asked Him to show me One Thing, just One Thing. Not really expecting an answer, I opened the Bible and it fell open to Psalms 27 and my eyes locked on Psalm 27:4 One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.
To say the least, my spirit was renewed.

I am fascinated with the power of the One Thing. As I look about my house and see all the chores that need to be done, and then to finish my book, and….The list goes on. Usually, I throw in the towel and surf the channels. Toooooo much to do.

And then the wisdom from The One True God seeps into my spirit and makes its way to my brain. Do one thing at a time. I can’t do it all at once, and I’m not expected to. But one thing at a time, I can knock away that list of things to do. One sentence at a time I can finish that book.

The power of the One Thing.

Check in and see what other One things I find in God's Word.

Bad Things Do Happen

2010-01-13T21:29:00.002-06:00

AS unimagineable pictures and reports come in from the devastation in Haiti, we are faced with the fact that bad things do happen. Why? We live in a fallen world. Creation along with man fell that day when the Serpent tempted Eve and Adam and they brought sin and death into the world. The comfort comes from knowing that this life isn't all there is. We have eternity to look forward to - if you believe in Jesus. That bad things happen, whether an earthquake where possibly half a million people may have perished, or an accident or disease that takes only one, can give us reason to pause and consider that this life is set to determine eternity. Pray for the people of Haiti, that they would come to know the One True God and follow Him. That the Lord of the Harvest would send His ambassadors to welcome whomsoever into the eternal Kingdom with Him. Live with eternity in your hearts.

2010 Year of Decision

2010-01-01T21:22:00.002-06:00

Usually I get a word for the coming year. This year - 2010 is the year of Decision. The lives of many hang in the balance - pray for hearts to turn to the One True God. The destiny of nations hang in the balance - pray for Godly wisdom and for men and women of courage. Turn into the Wind of My Spirit. Hear Me, Seek Me, Learn from Me and follow Me. Rejoice you who hunger and thirst after Me for you shall be filled and I will send you out to fill many. Prepare for the Harvest even while it is the winter months. Prepare your hearts and minds. Purify your hands and mouths. Speak My Word and deny the enemy a place. Get Ready, Prepare the instruments of the Harvest. What are the instruments of the Harvest? You - your gifts and talents. Clean them up, repair them where they are broken. Get Ready for the Great Harvest. Many will come in the hour of the Valley of Decision. Be Ready you workmen of the Lord. Be Ready to gather in the Great Harvest.

Are You Lion Bait?

2009-06-06T20:52:00.002-05:00

1 Peter 5:8 Warns -- Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. KJV
I looked into the reason lions roar - found a few interesting tidbits. They roar to announce a contest- that is to take over a pride or claim territory. The roaring lion is not out looking for dinner. He's looking to take over. To dominate and claim territory - totally to the death if need be. So the devil is out to get us if we're not paying attention, recognizing the times. The preceding verses give us a clue on how to be of sober spirit and vigilante. Be subject one to another and clothed in humility. If a church has those who gripe and grumble, it is an invitation for the roaring lion to advance. Where there is dissension - there will be our adversary seeking to devour individuals, reputations, and churches. Be wise people. Most of all be humble. Humble yourselves under the Mighty Hand of God for He cares for us. The Word goes on to tell us to cast all our care upon Him for He cares for us. HE is the Lion of Judah. The One who will not be defeated by the roaring lion of the devil. Be not mistaken - those who are prideful in their own abilities and power are the very ones the devil seeks - because they are the ones he can destroy. Only in the safety and security of our Lord are we safe, and only by the blood of Jesus are we accepted into the pride of the Lion of Judah.

What to do in A Funk?

2009-05-27T19:33:00.002-05:00

Well, today I fell into a bit of a funk. No big reason why, just little scratches that annoyed and pestered my mind. This is not usual for me, so it gave me something to think about. At first, I was greatly annoyed at how cheap my faith appeared to be. Here nothing really awful happened and I was in a whirl. I've been on a journey of learning to trust the Lord. And have come to realize that I need these little blasts of reality that show me that I am not the one who is taking care of business. So the still small voice conjoined with my little faith and said, "Rejoice. Rejoice in the various trials and troubles of life. Rejoice that there is One greater than you who is above all circumstances. Rejoice that the Lord cares for you and will hold you up in the small dents life dishes out as well as the big crashes." So I found my faith, small as it was, joined with the Word of God and His Holy Spirit completely able to overcome my pesty troubles. So I rejoice and again I say rejoice! Oh how wonderful it is to be a follower of the One True God.

Obama -- Moses or Pharoah?

2009-05-19T15:22:00.002-05:00

Months before the November election last year, the Lord told me Obama was the man. Not words I wanted to hear, but who knows better than God? For the last four months, the United States has been under the authority of President Obama. Like it or not, the man is president.
But the Lord had gone on to tell me to pray for Obama, whether I liked it or not. He is God’s chosen vessel for this time. The Word of God tells us that the Lord holds the heart of the leaders in His hand. Proverbs 21:1 We would be wise to recognize this.
I believe that the decision has not been made as to which leader we will see. Obama can be either a Moses that leads our nation back to the Lord and away from the immoral abyss, or he can be a Pharaoh intent on the destruction of God’s people.
The decision is up to God’s people. As the Word says in 2 Chronicles 7:14 If My people, which are called by My name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.KJV
I have sinned and not prayed for the man as I should. I repent, here and now, and ask in Jesus Name that Obama would be saturated in the truth of the Lord’s Word. That Obama’s heart would be turned toward God. And that the Christians of this nation would humble themselves and forsake the ways of the world.
Church—we can speak Obama into Pharaoh or pray him into Moses. The choice is ours.

Are you looking?

2008-10-20T10:46:00.002-05:00

I am on an adventure through the Bible in a year. Today, I read Genesis 4-7. The thing that impressed me today was Eve. Although part is about Cain and Able, it is Eve's statement after the birth of Seth that intrigues me. She said "For God hath appointed me another seed instead of Abel, whom Cain slew. " Eve was looking for her redemption. She remembered the promise the Lord gave her about her seed. That her seed would bruise the serpent's head. She saw in Seth the qualities she'd seen in Abel. Acceptance by God. The line of her redeemer. The line through which Jesus came.

So today. are you looking? Are you watching for the Redeemer? Do you recognize the acceptable year of the Lord? Are you watching and praying for His return?

Eve recognized the promise even though it was thousands of years away. One thing we do know, Jesus is coming. Whether today, tomorrow or a thousand years from now, are you looking for Him?

Eternal Day

2008-08-27T14:57:00.003-05:00

Oh happy day! I was thinking about our life here on earth. What's it about? What's the point? As I considered the questions, I had a glimpse of the day as an eternal day. Every word is recorded, God sees all we do, and our actions recorded. We'll see it all in heaven.

Whatever we do this day -- is eternal.

Puts an importance to every minute doesn't it?

Unlike the world that is stuck in a groundhog day existence of run and run only to do it all over tomorrow, the children of God--those who follow Jesus, the heirs with Christ--have set before them a day of destiny and eternity. Praise the Lord that He is with us. Never to leave us or forsake us.

So go forth into this Eternal Day and praise the Living God who will have His way.

Are You Ready?

2008-08-26T02:01:00.004-05:00

And I don't mean for football.

I believe we are living in the times of the ten virgins. Do you have oil? Are you prepared?
I ask these questions to myself, and the truth is--I am not sure. Oh I believe in Jesus, but am I ready? Am I to be counted with the wise?

These are the questions we are to wrestle with--the purpose and goals that need to be given attention. The world and the ways of the world come crashing over us to dissuade us from what is truly important.

Stir your hearts to seek the One who can save, give wisdom, and guide us through the storm that is coming.

Watch and pray!

I found a site about the Parable of the Ten Virgins -- take a look. Not sure of this site, but I liked his take on this parable.

http://endtimepilgrim.org/tenvirg.htm

Rain and watching skin flicks : )

2008-08-18T11:39:00.005-05:00

Today, in Texas, in August, it is raining. A wonderful day to write. Create. I can hear the earth open up, drink, and say "awww." I love the promise of cooler temps and greener grass. Life renewed.

The skin flicks? Don't worry, I've not gone to the dark side. It's the Olympics! Soo much skin and so little uniforms. But what an inspiration to get in gear and strive to be the best writer I can be. Go for the Gold.

Reminds me of the Apostle Paul and his verses about running the race. Too often I find myself sitting in the stands sipping root beer floats and forgetting to run. For all of us have a race set before us. Some are sprints, others marathons. But the call to run the race is given. So run, don't look back or to the side, but forward to Jesus and His promises.

Run your race!

Where have I been?

2008-08-13T19:15:00.007-05:00

Whew, I push back the cobwebs and enter the dark room. A spider runs into the Shack : ) No No, that was the last post. Where have I been? Good question. Seems all I have to do is say "I am going to..." and whatever it was --the opposite will happen. I will write on my blog every week. Didn't happen, sorry.

So much for will power. But I am back now. Have wonderful news regarding two nonfiction books that I am writing. Things I Learned on the Way to the Last Page and Writing -- It's Your Business. They are self-published. Another new thing to learn and do : )

Things I Learned on the Way to the Last Page--I included things I wished I had known when I started writing my first book. Great book for a beginner and anyone who has trouble finishing a book. Also some useful tips on using the computer. EX: How to go from Chapter 2 to Chapter 10 with a click of your mouse.

Writing--It's Your Business--this is for anyone who has decided to get serious with their writing career. I've included forms and worksheets to help you document your writing, times and expenses. Business plans and goals need to be written and your strategy to be a career writer explained. Good for any writer to get focused and prove to the tax man you're not a hobby.

The Shack or is it Shacking up with the Enemy!

2008-06-23T12:47:00.005-05:00

When I first saw the book, The Shack, at Barnes & Noble, I wanted to get it. Yay! a book about Christianity being pushed in a mainstream bookstore. Or so I thought. I picked up the book, and for some reason decided not to buy it. I hadn't heard anything about it, but something just didn't set right in my spirit. So I didn't buy it. I continued to look at it whenever I was in the bookstore, but didn't trust it.

On a trip to Colorado, I saw the book at the Focus on the Family headquarters bookstore as well as the bookstore in the NAV Press headquarters. The book must be all right, I thought. Surely, these bastions of the faith wouldn't promote a bad book.

I got home and bought the book. BOY WAS I WRONG!

And that is what has disturbed me more than anything. Since then I see that the 700 Club has promoted it, as well as other organizations I respected. Hmmm. Either I am whacked or the enemy has slipped in unnoticed under the guise of a good story that brings readers to tears as it plays with their feelings as well as their beliefs.

I'm feeling like I have spotted a dangerous flood coming our way and am shouting "watch out for the flood," but most just stare at me like I'm all wet.

In these days, last days I believe, we are warned of a great delusion. After I read half the book, I put it down and that is the word I heard from the Lord -- Delusion.

I'm sorry to say that I did finish reading the book. It got worse not better.

I am not a scholar and have no desire to study The Shack to point out its errors. I have learned that I must run to the Word of God and soak in His truth and trust in His Holy Spirit. I shouldn't have bought the book. Sorry I did. I don't need to fill my brain with error.

I don't think Jesus, God the Father, or the Holy Spirit need to be repackaged to be sold. We're warned not to teach or believe any other gospel or any other Jesus.

Test the spirits

Bless ME, Bless others

2008-04-08T16:13:00.004-05:00

Bless the Lord oh my soul.

A command, a joy and everything in between.
Especially when we don't feel like it. He is always with us. He will never leave us. And regardless of how it looks -- He is there- to catch us, console us, encourage us, and most of all Love us.

With that in mind. Bless others.

And the Lord would say:
Bless ME and bless others and the blessings will flow in your own life.

Go Forth

2008-04-01T21:25:00.002-05:00

Okay, it's His Word Tuesday and I have to confess - I didn't seek Him until tonight. Not exactly my plan. But I am determined to seek the Lord and do His will. I do get tired. Wimpy, I know. so I asked Him what to do.

He asked me who told me I didn't have energy. Then said Why do you ask that which you can feel and see instead of My Word?The Joy of the Lord is your strength. He that waits on the Lord will mount up as of wings of eagles. Though he run, he will not grow weary. though he walk will not faint. The Word of the Lord is truth.

He went on to tell me that boredom is the biggest thief of time and energy. Boredom comes from an unfocused life filled with seeming entertainment--not living but the facade of living and having a good time.

Do My will and you will have joy and strength.

GO Forth not questioning if you can, but rejoicing in the fact that you are.

Storms!!

2008-03-31T17:59:00.003-05:00

I love storms. The wilder and louder the better - as long as I don't' get blown away. I would love to be a storm chaser. But since I live in Texas, I don't have to go far.

Today, an awesome storm. I have never seen it rain so hard that the trees outside were blurred away by the blowing,white-sheets of rain. And then toward the end of the storm - the sun came out. Not on the horizon, but straight up overhead in the middle of the thing. So we had driving rain and bright sunshine all at the same time.

Amazing to see the dark blue skies, brilliant yellow sunlight, and spring green grass and leaves. Supposedly we were under a tornado warning, but I didn't hear about it - too busy watching : )

I am energized and refreshed now.

His Words -- Tuesday!

2008-03-25T19:15:00.002-05:00

Today I started journaling my praise and love for my Father in Heaven. And then I write what He has to say to me.

WOW, blessed me today.

Write My child, My daughter of letters.
And Rejoice that you are in the workhouse
of the Lord where there is no toil–only joy.

Although writing is hard work, I am filled with joy as I write, knowing that this is what I was created to do.

Hallelujah!!!

Tuesdays will be my His Words day.

Resurrection Day!

2008-03-23T18:26:00.002-05:00

Praise the Risen Lord. Jesus Christ -crucified, dead, and sealed in a tomb. Until the third day. The reason for our being and continuing happened that day. Jesus is the Risen Lord. Conquering death. Preparing the way to eternity for those who believe in Him.

No other religion comes close. No other truth exists.

How do I know? Because He met me on a day that turned my life around. I wasn't into doing 'bad things' just ignorant of the truth of Jesus. I won't try and persuade anyone, for it wasn't reason that brought into His kingdom. I won't judge others (try not too:) who don't get it -I was there.

All I can tell you - if you want to know the truth, know God--Seek Him. He will meet you at the right time.

Fear not For He lives now and Forevermore.

Of Race and Grace

2008-03-18T11:49:00.005-05:00

I just listened to Barak Obama's speech concerning his former Pastor Jeremiah Wright. I thought the speech was awesome. Finally someone acknowledged the elephant in the living room of American life.

Racial prejudice is still alive, hiding between the lines of all the politically correct language and niceties demanded by it. Evil lurks in the shadows, but once truth is shined on it, it must flee. I hope Barak's light helps to send the evil away.

But the Light that is required is the Love of God. Jesus alive in the hearts of His people who know that Grace has set them free. And only by seeing others through His Grace can we rise above the evil of prejudice.

God Bless America and help remind us that our greatness is because His Grace shines on us.

By the way -- I believe the Lord told me that Barak Obama is the man - the next President.
Not exactly what my Republican ears wanted to hear. But it is what I believe.

Back on Track

2008-03-17T09:36:00.002-05:00

What track?

The sleek fast rails to get published, in shape-spiritually and physically, and get my house clean. Might have those in the wrong order come to think of it.

First step -- write the vision plainly and clearly so that I can see it whenever I am tempted to jump track. A verse in Haggai. Have to look that up.

Diet - drink less cokes. Yes, here in Texas cokes can be anything from Coca Cola, Dr, Pepper to orange or Root beer. Anyway - limit myself to one a day. Ouch - I love the stuff - it is what my brain thinks of when thirst is mentioned.

Exercise - Move the body. I can even do housework and kill two birds with one action. (have to avoid those cliches)

Spiritual - pray, read His Word. Go back to journaling my heart to my Loving Father in Heaven and write His answers to me.

Writing - Write every day. set a goal -- Maybe 10 pages. (Hate the maybe part) Okay ten pages a day.

Whew. better stop this and get going.

Digging out from under the Debris

2008-03-11T11:55:00.004-05:00

Whew! Amazing how much falls apart when you're sick for a few days. So today I am digging out from under the debris of undone - need to do - better do it- stuff. Washing clothes, Doing dishes, Making dinner, Catching up on eMail, ...

Ta Da -- I successfully hooked my printer to my laptop. After an hour of frustration - I go the thing to print!! I consider that a major project accomplished for the day.

Now to conquer the dishes and kitchen - Forward March>
And the clothes.

And to exercise

and to eat better

Ugh, I can do this, I think I can, I think I can, I think I can : )

Not Grown Up But Born Again!!

2008-03-09T21:29:00.002-05:00

Part three of me-since there is a Me, myself and I--there must be three parts. So to go with the Sergeant Shultz and Peter Pan parts there is the awesome redeemed part - Born again filled with the Holy Spirit and thankful to be a child of the Living God.

Not by anything I have done, but only by the blood of my risen Lord - Jesus Christ. He is the One who gives life meaning and the promise of life eternal. Through Him I live and breath.
I'm not perfect, but through Jesus I have been perfected.

I desire to do all things as unto the Lord. have fallen short, but am getting back up.

Praise the LORD!

Now for the Peter Pan Side of My Life's Philosophy!

2008-03-08T17:41:00.004-06:00

I finished my lunch and wanted something sweet. Out of chocolate, I chose the only sweet thing I could find. A Popsicle!! I'd already eaten my favorite grape and red and had the choice of orange or green. About to pick the safe orange one, I changed the course of my fingers and grabbed for the green.

Green Popsicles! What a takeback to childhood and carefree summers spent lounging under a shade tree and licking a Popsicle before it melted, dripping on your fingers and onto your toes. But who cares, that's what the sprinkler was for : )

So I enjoyed the spring-green Popsicle. Licked the tangy taste and reveled in the fact that I have yet to grow up!!!

My Sergeant Shultz Philosophy of Life

2008-03-07T17:27:00.002-06:00

Remember Sergeant Shutlz from Hogan's Heroes? His line was I know nothing! It seems the older I get and the more things I think I know -- when I get it figured out in my mind -- I know nothing!

I know stuff, or would that be of stuff. Can't know everything about anything. Once at Barnes & Nobles, I laughed at the title of a book in their big cheap book aisle.
The title >The Complete History of the World -- Well, excuse me, I don't think the world has ended so how could it be complete?

I am at my wisest when I say I don't know? According to Proverbs, even fools look wise if they keep quiet. How many times has someone asked you a question about another person? And we answer what we think but as we all too often discover--what we think is often not the truth. Or things aren't always as they seem. And what do we really know about anyone else, much less ourselves?

So be pleasantly surprised by the goodness of others and remember that The Complete History hasn't been written about us yet. And only God knows the complete history.

Be wise - if you don't really know, then you really don't know!

Wednesday Verse

2008-02-27T07:54:00.002-06:00

Gal 5:6 . . .The only thing that counts is FAITH expressing itself through LOVE. (NIV)

Reading the Bible this morning I came on this verse. Perfect for the theme for one of my books. It's always amazing when a verse jumps out at you. I know I've read it before, but today I saw it.

God packs more meaning in one sentence, than man can in thousands of books. And what an appropriate verse for today's climate. Faith is not a club to beat others over the head with. Faith is not a license for pride.

Today, rejoice in the gift of our faith, for it is given to us by a loving God. And then let your faith unfold by loving others.

Have a blessed day!

New Year! New Day! New Focus! New Start!

2008-02-23T13:40:00.002-06:00

Okay--No apology. Just starting over : )

What have I been doing?
Writing and loving it. I was made to do this and it is such a joy and worship to actually do the very thing God created me to do. I am living the life I have dreamed of. And all thanks to a loving God. I'm not questioning why me and not others, but am running the race set before me.
I love writing!!

I have entered three in the Genesis contest with ACFW. And am excited. I have learned so much in the past year. Hopefully, my writing shows it. Will keep you posted in the updates for the books.

Currently there are three that I am working on - make that four. They take on a life of their own and I am ever amazed at the creative process. Totally a gift from the Creator.

Back on the blog

Time management and Internet woes

2007-10-24T23:03:00.000-05:00

Well, had a bit of a problem with my internet connection. I have an AT&T USB card and it bumped me offline and then said it couldn't fine the device. I don't know why and don't really know what I clicked to make it work, but it does : )

Now for the bigger problem of time managament. Or lack of it in my case. I know I said I was starting a schedule. Hasn't happened yet. And now to add to my troubles - I have been playing a stupid computer game - Luxor. I love the game but can't seem to be able to stop. HELP

OKAY this must be a situation where discipline is required. I can do this.

Good note- I have my chapter to chapter done for Down to Earth and today got a good revelation of where I want to take the story. Yahoo. So the day wasn't a total loss.

That's all for now, I am on a search for discipline.

Weasel Words - Pests in the field of ideas and story

2007-10-18T22:23:00.000-05:00

WEASEL words--those critters that pester the life out of your writing. And Life! They are all too familiar: Try, maybe, probably, likely, attempt, might, just

They add nothing to the ideas. Instead, they weaken the sentence. And the reader gets the notion that the writer isn't sure of the facts or story. I love the quote from Yoda in Star Wars - You either do or you do not-there is no try. How true that is. Try is a word with defeat built right in to it. After all, if you tried then it's okay if you fail. Right?

Wrong. If you keep trying-you're likely to keep failing. Do whatever it is you have your heart set on. Press on, but don't just try. Throw all you have into it - don't hold back in case of failure. Instead, embrace the journey and learn.

Go forward boldly. Don't back down and don't just try but do it with all your heart.

I been tagged! What was I doing 10,20,30 years ago?

2007-10-16T11:31:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Pat at http://www.pattishene.blogspot.com/
I've been tagged to tell what I was doing 10, 20 and 30 years ago. Good question. And I have trouble remembering yesterday.

1o years ago - 1997 I actually was writing mostly nonficiton. Didn't get very far, but the writing bug was in me. I did write some letters to the editor that were published. My son was 16 and as the saying goes, he got his drivers license and all I saw were tail lights : ) My husband I had been married 24 years.

20 years ago - 1987 hmm gettting a little harder. This was the year my mother died- of cancer. My son was 6. we went to Hawaii. I owned a pet store. and really didn't have much time to write. I may have dabbled a little with letters to the editor. I started my first book in 1995 - still not finished.

30 years ago - 1977 - I think this was the year we bought the pet store. Didn't write - that was still a blip on my life's journey- hidden from me. I am a late bloomer- a boomer bloomer.

Well not very interesting - but it's been a good life, no complaints. I often wonder why I didn't know I wanted to be a writer. I do remember one class in high school the teacher handed out pictures and we were to write stories. I loved that and still remember them. But I guess since the books we read in school were written by people long dead- writing didn't seem to be something to do with your life. Ecxcept for journalism and I didn't want that.

So there you have it - confessions of a late but happy bloomer. : )

I am tagging Ronie Kendig http://supernaturalcraving.blogspot.com

I am a Multi-Taser

2007-10-15T11:44:00.000-05:00

Yes, A multi-taser. That is a multi-tasker without the K- the knockout - the finish. I start multiple chores, stories, anything - and leave them strewn about, languishing to be completed. The result is a house full of projects, beckoning to me, and what do I do under the demand of so many - I sit down and click the remote to find a suitable show to take me away.

So to go with my Scheduling - I am incorporating my strategy of One Thing. Putting down one thing I want to accomplish for the day. And this is a bite-sized specific thing.

Today I want to write my chapter by chapter for Down to Earth.
For my house cleaning -(as house keepers go - my house would make Martha Stewart run back to jail) This job is a week long project - clean my bedroom.

Not too bad. I can do this. Maybe(Tomorrow's blog will be on my war against weasel words) someday I can get the K back in Tasker.

You need to set a scehdule

2007-10-13T22:04:00.000-05:00

It has been over a year that the Lord told me --I hate to tell you this, but you need to set a schedule. Yikes. But I have to confess, even I can see that to be effective I am going to have to come up with a strategy for my writing life.

So, The Schedule starts Monday. Everything starts on Monday -- things you don't want to do anyway. Like diets.

What will my schedule look like? Good question. But I know the Lord has good plans for me. Plans that will prosper me and lead me into the fullness of life that He has destined for me. My Goals:

Spend time with the Lord
To write - finish the proposals for the 2 books requested by an editor
get the house clean

Sounds easy - but for me I am going to have to break each of these down into bite-size portions or I'll give up. Praise the Lord I have Sunday to seek the Lord's guidance and will to set the schedule.

I am determined and will succeed. I know this. Watch for the updates of this writing life.

A New Beginning

2007-10-12T16:52:00.001-05:00

I woke up this morning and was hit with the I can't write blues. But they didn't last long. The Lord sent a writing buddy to encourage me, and the SON broke through, blasting the shades of doubt away.

SO I am starting over with a fresh new blog. I'll write about writing and life.

The two are intricately intertwined. For writers write about life--theirs and the made up lives of characters who only live in their imaginations until a reader reads the book or story.

But those made up characters go through conflict, tension on every page of their lives, so that we--readers and author-- can learn. A mental laboratory where ideas are written to see just how it will all work out.

A writer can plot, but as in real life, the story can take wild turns that surprise us. So get ready for adventure and come with me as I delve into the exciting world of writing.