Fall Into a Routine and Take Time

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I can't stress enough on the importance of routine. If I didn't have some sort of structure to my day, I don't think I could get through it efficiently or effectively. The fact is, I'm not a child anymore. I can't ignore the clock as if time doesn't matter. I often miss the days when I only sought a clock to see if the school bell was about to ring, or if it was getting too close to my bedtime. Nowadays, I feel as if I'm racing the clock, and I have to be careful not to see time as an enemy because time is really a friend when you think about it.

Sometimes, my day can be so overwhelming that I have to take a time out, and put into perspective the things that I'm thankful for. One thing that almost always comes to mind is time. Every day that I wake up is a blessing from God. I can't think of a more wonderful blessing than having the time to spend with my family. If I'm not careful, the entire day can expire in my race to get things done, and I will forget to be appreciative of this. This is why routine is important.

Let's face the facts, work has to get done, children have to be fed, and deadlines won't budge. When your schedule is packed, and it doesn't seem as though there is enough time in a day, make a list of the things that must get done, and then set a time to do them each day.

Commitment is key here! You must stick to the routine.

When the really important things are done, your day won't feel as stressful, and it will be easier to tackle the less crucial things that you want to get done. More importantly, you won't turn into a monster and take your stress out on your family and friends. You'll even find that you have more time to reflect on what's really important in your life, and where your priorities should be in reference to time.

There are certain things (besides work) that a person MUST take time to do each day, and those things may be different for different people, but for me, it's prayer, reading God's word, and quality time with my family. If I can't make time for those, then I don't have my priorities in the right order.

Do you have a daily routine? What important things do you take time for?

Novel Writing: A Great Interpretation of Show vs. Tell

One of the main struggles I had with my first novel (still unpublished, but working on it!) was creating a captivating beginning. I have learned that it isn't enough to have good grammar and pace. It isn't enough to write lovely prose, or be intimately descriptive. It isn't even enough to have a great plot and exceptional characters. If you're a novelist, and you wish to publish your story, you must write a story that can, in some way, connect with the reader. That being said, it also isn't enough to tell a great story. The story must have the ability to captivate the reader and entice them to continue turning the pages. 

I previously posted about how too much backstory, especially at the beginning of your book, can be a bore. I can only speak for myself, but as a reader, I can attest that if a book bores me in the first couple of chapters, I will likely NOT continue reading. Maybe 20 or 30 pages in, the story will explode into action, and be the greatest book I have ever read. For many readers, however, 20 pages will be too late. For some readers, three pages may be too late. The point is, from page one, the writer (fiction or non-fiction) must gain the readers interest. 

There are several different things that work together to create a great beginning. However, for my book, the problem was too much telling. You've probably heard or read authors, editors, and literary agents speak about writers telling, instead of showing. When I realized that this was one of the problems my story exhibited, I was set on correcting it. However, I wasn't quite sure I understood the concept in its entirety. Sure, there were the obvious things, like showing emotions. For example, instead of stating, "Gloria is mad!", the writer should show us how Gloria is expressing her anger. Like this... "Gloria's cheeks radiated with heat as her hands curled into two white-knuckled fists at her sides." This kind of show vs. tell, I understood. What I had a hard time with was figuring out how to inform the reader about something without stopping the story to do it. 

I haven't yet heard, or read, a better explanation to this than the one Jeff Gerke gives in his book, The First 50 Pages. In the book, Mr. Gerke explains the importance of a book's first impression. As I mentioned, there are several different concepts working together to create a harmonious beginning to your book, and Mr. Gerke explains each of these things in detail in his book. However, the most informative for me was chapter three when he explains show vs. tell. He does this from a film-audience point of view, which created a much clearer picture for me. Think about it. How irritating would it be if you were watching a movie, but before it began, a narrator spoke for ten minutes giving you information about the background of the upcoming scene. Wouldn't you just rather watch the backstory play out instead? Think of your book in the same way.

Instead of throwing in paragraphs of backstory, which brings the story to a halt, allow the information to play out throughout the book when the information is needed. He explains that this can be done easily in the dialogue, for example. Instead of telling how Sally's mother died, have someone ask Sally how her mother died. This will push the story forward, instead of bringing it to a halt while you explain. 

In addition to show vs. tell, Mr. Gerke explains many more useful tips and techniques for creating the most captivating first 50 pages of your novel. This is not only important to gain readership, but more importantly, Mr. Gerke explains that it is vital in gaining the interest of the literary agent, editor, or publisher, who can help you share your story with the world. If you're struggling with a great beginning, I encourage you to read this book. 

Do your characters have character?

Image by Kristin Shoemaker via Flickr

Part of the fun and excitement of creating a new story is creating the characters. Before I begin writing, I like to iron out as many physical characteristics and personality traits as possible. There’s not many things worse than a heroine with blond hair, blue eyes and no personality.

I want to nail down things like: their strengths and weaknesses. Are they patient, clumsy, hot-tempered, shy, or sassy? Are they adventurous or timid? Do they speak before thinking, or careful with what they say? Do they have a real hatred for Brussel sprouts?

I believe that it’s a good thing for the reader to be able to connect or relate to the character in some way. What is your character’s life experiences that have brought them where they are today? If that is taken into consideration, I believe it is easier to build the character traits. Certainly, the experiences a person faces in life can shape the type of person they become.

I just recently read a romance whose main character, I struggled to like. I’m guessing that, in a romance, the reader is supposed to want the heroine to get the guy, or vice versa. In this case, I wasn’t sure she was right for him. His character was warm, charming, and thoughtful. I can’t really tell you what she was like because her personality bounced from shy to outspoken, from careful to careless, from certain to unsure. I also disliked the fact that she had to be nudged by her friend to make the right decision.

With that said, I also believe it is okay for your characters to make mistakes. This can make them appealing to the reader. After all, nobody’s perfect. However, be careful not to make the reader feel as if the character is deceitful, unreliable or unremorseful.  

On the other hand, too much of a good thing can also be an issue. If your character is always letting people run over him/her because he/she is too nice, the reader might become irritated with them. Hero or heroines in a story should be someone we want to root for. I don’t want to question if they can be trusted, or, in a romance, if the guy/girl could do better.

Oh, and never give the hero or heroine of a romance bad hygiene! Not even the slightest little thing. No, I’ve never encountered this, but I thought I would throw it in for good measure.

Have you ever read a story where you didn’t root for the hero or heroine of the story? What was it about them that you didn’t like?

Sailing on...

Image by Kenneth Garcia via Flickr

Sorry for my lengthy vacation. Lately, I've been swamped. Work has been busier than usual in the last few weeks, home projects are starving for attention, and I've been going back and forth with an agent who I soooo want to work with. I've not talked much lately about where I'm at with finding representation for my novel, but that's because things haven't really changed. I'm still submitting to multiple agents, and getting rejected regularly. However, recently, one agent, I'll call Agent A, has given me another chance to prove my talent.

This particular agent is at the top of my list. I really want to work with her, and hope that after she reads my revised story, once again, she will want to work with me as well. However, I'm learning that it's so important to have a plan B, not to put all of your eggs in one basket. Never stop querying other agents, and here's why... After receiving a long list of No's, I also, just recently, received another request from an agent, I'll call Agent B, to review my full manuscript.

Agent B definitely has the credibility I'm looking for, and even though I prefer Agent A, I know I need to consider that there's a chance God has other plans for me. Since Agent B requires exclusivity when reviewing full manuscripts, I can't send it to her until Agent A makes her decision. This is undoubtedly the hardest part of this process. Waiting.

On the bright side, I'm now freed up to work on my other to-do items, like this blog. It is summer after all, for most, a less stressful time of year. Right now we complain of the heat, but soon we'll be bundled up in our Snuggies and woolly socks, complaining about our high electric bills. For me, I plan to soak in as much summer as I can, drinking iced tea, swimming with the kids, or just lounging on my screened-in porch. When fall comes, watching the leaves change, visiting the pumpkin patch, and shopping for sweaters and boots.

One thing is for sure, I'll keep sailing on, continuing to seek representation, and hoping and praying that my potential will finally develop into something deemed "talented enough" to take a chance on. I'll let you know how it goes.

Where are you, lately, on your writing journey?

The Bore with Backstory

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I’m learning new things about novel-writing every day. One of the most valuable is, how important the beginning of a story is. I’ve always be attracted to writing the things that I would love to read – the kinds of stories, I mean. For example, I love reading inspirational romance, and so I’m writing stories of inspirational romance that, if I were a reader, I would love to read.

As a reader, I am easily bored. If a book doesn’t capture me from the beginning, I have a hard time continuing. I do try my best to give the book a shot, and rarely do I ever stop mid-book and return it to the shelf; however, occasionally, a book can be so slow that I will find myself daydreaming instead of reading. Have you ever done that while reading a boring book, or it is just me? Maybe I’m just weird.

When I began my first novel, I was so eager to get the book onto paper that I poured out too much backstory in the first couple of chapters. This is a pretty common mistake for new writers. I have since edited my story so that it begins with a little more action and mystery. The backstory is now scattered throughout the book so that the reader gets enough information as they go to keep from being confused about what is going on, but at the same time, they aren’t able to predict what is about to happen next.

This balance of backstory can be hard to do correctly. Part of being able to connect with the characters of a book is knowing who they are and where they’ve been, but if the writer gives everything away at the beginning, what is going to keep the reader reading? A story with too much backstory is like a long, straight road to somewhere you've never been. You have no idea what you're missing, so you question if the trip is worth it. If the story is a romance, the reader is eager for the romance to begin – the sooner the better. This means that the hero and heroine should meet in the first chapter, and probably within the first couple of pages, if possible. 

An agent once told me, in an early rejection, that she liked my writing, but would have loved to seen the beginning start with more action. She suggested taking a scene from the “meat” of the manuscript and then bringing the reader back to the beginning. This may not always be an option, but the point she was making is that the story has to be able to capture the reader from the get-go.

Do you have trouble balancing backstory? Does your story begin with enough action to captivate the reader?

Are You Waiting For The Call?

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One of many things that writers, including myself, look forward to while traveling the long and trying journey to publication is The Call. We dream about it, prepare for it, look forward to it, and anxiously anticipate it. But should we be waiting for it?

I say, no.

Along this journey I have learned that time is going to elapse regardless, and it’s important to always be preparing and anticipating the next move toward your goals. I received the, renowned, call over a year ago. Although I was very ecstatic to receive a call from an agent, it wasn’t exactly what I had expected.

I had done my research, so I knew that the call didn’t always mean I’d be offered representation on the spot; however, I hadn’t expecting to continue working with that agent without a guarantee for representation over a year later. You might be thinking, why would you waste your time?

Well, for one, I believe my particular situation is unique since my manuscript is being considered for a specific book series. In addition, I have researched the agency facilitating my proposal for this project, and I trust that they are honorable and looking out for my best interest, as well as theirs.

In most other cases, I would say it probably isn’t wise to invest so much time into revising, editing, and, in some instances, completely changing your manuscript without a contract with an agent. But even more importantly, it isn’t wise to sit and wait.

If you’ve sent out a handful of query letters, if an agent has requested to see your full manuscript, or if you’re waiting on an editor to approve you manuscript for publication, don’t wait for the call. You’ve heard the saying, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” What if the call never comes? What if the call isn’t really the call? Instead of waiting, keep writing, and anticipate the call to come when the time is right. It’s okay to be excited about more than one project. We write because we have a creative talent that we want to express and share, so why would you wait for just one to become successful when there is potential for many more to come?

I would be lying if I said I don’t look forward to the call – the confirmation that all of my work has paid off, and that the story I’m so passionate about will be shared with a mass audience. On the other hand, I don’t like the idea of feeling as though I have hit a dead end if my manuscript is rejected, and that all hope is lost. I don’t want to have passion for only one project. I will not limit my talent to one story, one chance, and one hope. Nope! I will keep writing things I am passionate about and excited to share. I will look forward to the call, but I will NOT wait.

Are you waiting for the call? Are you continuing to work toward your goals while you wait? Have you ever received a call from a literary agent or editor that wasn’t really the call?

Cleaning and Organizing 101

During my last post, I promised I would share some of my tips for cleaning and organizing. If you are busy and can’t afford to hire a housekeeper (like me), you know how hard it is to keep up with all the housework. There is not a day that goes by in my house when there isn't a sink full of dirty dishes, or a basket of dirty laundry. This tells me that if I decide not to do the laundry for a day, then I’ll have double the amount to do the next day. This is just simple math, people.

In the past, I would set aside one day each week and dedicate it to cleaning. I’m not talking about dishes and laundry. I’m referring to mopping, dusting, cleaning bathtubs and toilets – the lengthier cleaning tasks. I work five days a week, so I don’t have time to clean like that until the weekend. Since me and my family attend church on Sunday, and we try to honor the Sabbath, that left me with Saturday. You might think this sounds logical enough, and one cleaning day each week isn't so bad. I, on the other hand, dreaded seeing Saturday come. Not only was Saturday one of the only two days my family could spend quality time together, but after working all week long, the last thing I wanted to do was work my guts out all day on my day off.

Let me just say that I understand that some work can’t get done until Saturday. For example, that’s usually the day we mow the lawn, or work on home repairs or projects. Many people also do their grocery shopping on Saturday. What makes it hard is when you have all the usual Saturday work, plus all the house-cleaning to do on top of it.

So, after years of dreading Saturdays, and OCD driven nightmares of my dusty ceiling cobwebs that I just couldn't find time to eliminate, I created the weekly “Cleaning Schedule.”

Initially, I searched online for one that was already created (there are many), but I couldn't find one that made sense for me. I also looked at blank templates where you could just write in the cleaning tasks for each day of the week, but ultimately, I just created my own (pictured above).

As you can see, I have a list of daily tasks. These are the things that I should complete each day (this includes Sunday). You’ll find that most of us already do these things daily out of necessity.  Next, I have sectioned off each day of the week, Monday through Saturday, and assigned each with different cleaning tasks.  I tried to limit each day with no more than three tasks, and I tried to pick things for each day that would take, in total, 30 minutes to an hour.

You will also notice that Saturday will not require me to give up my entire day – unless, of course, I wait until Saturday to do everything.  However, that is not how this schedule should work. I put the stipulation on Saturday because once in a while, I have days that are unusually busy. Let’s face it, sometimes the kids get sick, there are errands to run, the dishwasher breaks, etc. If this happens, I can either catch up on the tasks I missed the following weekday, or just wait until Saturday.

If you don’t consider yourself an organized person, this cleaning schedule may seem a bit much. Nonetheless, I say, give it a try. Because what I have found is that when I complete my weekly cleaning tasks a little each day instead of piling them all on the same day, I get even more done and it consistently stays that way. When I cleaned on Saturday, I would have so much to do that I would give in and decide to put off a few things for the next week. It seemed like a good idea at the time, but ultimately, I ended up with way more work the next week and still didn't get everything done. This unwise pattern made spring cleaning way more painful than it had to be.

I should also mention that there is a second page to my cleaning schedule, which lists things I should do monthly, quarterly, and bi-annually. For example, I usually don’t need to clean the inside of my oven or dust my light fixtures each week. I would suggest that you create a schedule that works best for you, and give it a try. You just might be surprised with the results.

So, what does this have to do with writing?

The main reason I decided to change my housekeeping habits is because I would be so bogged down with work and stress that I never seemed to get to the more important things. Stress can not only physically damage the human body, but it can alter our mood, steal our motivation, and derail us from reaching our goals. When I have less stress, I am a better wife and mother, and certainly a better writer.

Do you use a cleaning schedule? How has it helped you to reduce stress and stay more organized at home?

Achieving your goals…with a broom!

Image by Chiot's Run via Flickr

If you have read my previous posts, you know that I’m a fan of keeping things clean and organized. With the arrival of spring came the need to freshen up my home and shed light on the dark corners and narrow spaces that rarely get attention. Since I have a very busy routine with work, homeschool, and keeping house, I usually take time off work to get my spring cleaning done. I also schedule the kid’s spring break the same week so that I’m freed up from teaching lessons. This also means I have extra hands to help me out. Ha!

This, twice a year, cleaning sprint really helps me in more ways than one. I have a daily goal to spend more quality time with my kids. As a working mom, being organized helps my day go smoother and frees up more stress-free time to accomplish this.

One of my more ambitious goals is to become a full-time fiction writer. If it is God’s will and desire, I will achieve this one day, and I try to live my day to day life doing things that draw me closer to achieving this goal. Keeping my home clean and organized frees up more of my time so that I can write. It also declutters my mind so that I can focus and do my best writing.

You might feel that your busy schedule doesn’t allow you enough time to keep a clean and organized home. Maybe you’re right, but let me challenge you on this. First, take a detailed look at your day from the time you get up in the morning until you go to bed at night. How do you spend your time?

Next, make a list of your life goals. They could be big or small. They could be financial, professional, educational, emotional, parental, material, etc. You can even break them down into long-term and short-term. I know this sounds deep, but bear with me.

Once you have done this, make a list of everything you need to get done during the day, and the things you want to get done. Are you getting these things accomplished from day to day? If not, why? Are these things going to help you reach your goals? If not, how can you change them to be more goal driven?

Allow me to give you some examples. But, before I do, let me point out that I have been guilty of these from time to time, so I’m not pointing fingers.

How much time are you spending on electronic devices? Are you surfing Facebook, or other social media, more than an hour each day? If so, and your goal is not to become a social media master, then you should probably cut back and use your time more wisely.

Do you spend your day picking up messes behind your children? If so, and your goal is not to teach them to be irresponsible and completely dependent on you, then you should probably encourage them to pick up after themselves.

The point is, if you want to achieve your goals, you have to spend time doing things that are going to help you get there. Many people want to be more organized, and wish they had more time and motivation to keep a clean home. Many people can also agree that spring cleaning can be a nightmare if you have decided to put everything off until then.

I think it’s important to point out that when I say “clean and organized”, I don’t mean everything should be in its place at all times, and you should be able to pass the white glove test. If you have kids, or just a busy schedule, then there are probably a few toys scattered about or dirty dishes in the sink at any given point during the day. Big deal. I try not to sweat the little stuff because life happens.

When I ask if your home is clean and organized, what I’m really asking is: How long has it been since you dusted your ceiling fan? Cleaned your bedroom closet, or under your bed? Organized your kitchen cabinets, or cleaned behind your refrigerator? Being organized doesn’t have to be hard. It’s just a matter of having a place to put everything, and having everything is a sensible location. It doesn’t mean your DVDs should be in alphabetical order, but if that’s what makes you happy, then go for it!

In my next post, I’ll share a few tips on how I am able to accomplish my desired level of clean and organized in my home. Until then…

Does keeping a clean and organized home, help you to reduce stress and accomplish goals? Are you able to get more things done by keeping a cleaning schedule? Are you obsessed with organization? What are some of the things you do to stay organized?

A Special Thanks to The Pioneer Woman!

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Being a good writer is based on many things including knowledge and wisdom of the craft, but in my opinion, our experiences are really what set each writer apart. With that said, I'll share one of my experiences with you about a topic that I love almost as much as writing - cooking.

Before I was blessed to work out of my home office (a corner in my master bedroom), I spent two hours on the road each day driving to work. This meant getting home after six o'clock, and being too tired to get creative in the kitchen. Who am I kidding? I was too tired to walk into the kitchen. Needless to say, my family ate a lot of takeout and processed meals.

Did you know that there are 32 different types of Hamburger Helper!?

When I became pregnant with my daughter, I feared having to leave my newborn in someone else's care for 10+ hours a day. I wanted to raise her! Thankfully, I was able to make arrangements with my boss to work from home full-time.

To all the mothers out there everywhere who didn't have this choice...my heart goes out to you.

Suddenly, I had time to cook a meal that hadn't been previously frozen or dehydrated. This doesn't mean I began whipping up gourmet meals though. I had never been very savvy in the kitchen, so I did what most of us do when we're looking for inspiration. I opened up the cabinet, pulled out a cookbook, and blew off the dust. The only problem was, I didn't have half the ingredients for any of the recipes that didn't look too intimidating.

What the heck is dill? Does this have something to do with a pickle? I have pickles!

Yeah, it was sad.

I tried many different recipes from my cookbooks and online, but there were few that spoke to me. I still didn't feel comfortable in the kitchen, and shopping for those mystery ingredients was frustrating and expensive. I wanted to cook "normal food," and still impress my family.

I had caught a glimpse of a few episodes of The Pioneer Woman before, but it was one in particular that really got my attention. She was making Fettuccine Alfredo, and I was completely floored that the sauce of one of my most favorite Italian dishes was made from only three main ingredients!

I still can't believe it... If you don't believe it either, you can find her recipe here.

This simple recipe gave me confidence in the kitchen, and I became an instant Ree Drummond fan. Along the way, I have learned so much from her creative, yet simple, cooking style. I have used so many of her recipes that my son will say, "Hey, this is good! Is this a Pioneer Woman recipe?"

In addition, I love writing historical fiction, so this knowledge has come in handy. I'm pretty sure our great grand mothers never cooked Hamburger Helper.

So, a special thanks to you Mrs. Drummond for opening my eyes to the simplicity of cooking with fresh ingredients, and the value of a good iron skillet. Not to mention, the understanding that butter spread and stick butter are not equals.

My family thanks you too!

Spring Can Be A Motivational Writing Tool!

Image by Xavier via Flickr

Finally! The song birds have arrived and spring has begun! Although spring is not my most favorite time of year, it is definitely when I'm feeling the most optimistic. When I think of spring I think of new - new grass, new leaves, new flowers, and new baby rabbits, ducks and birds... The list goes on.

God definitely knew what He was doing when He created spring. Nothing is more motivating than seeing dull, bony tree-limbs come back to life with a burst of green, or the remnants of dead leaves protruding with fresh green stems of new spring flowers, and especially that... Can you hear it? The sweet sounds of the song birds breaking the silence of winter.

It doesn't matter what you do for a living, spring has the power to put a little pep in your step.

With that said, spring also brings new jobs to do around the house. This winter, like most, has taken a toll on my home and lawn. I will likely be spending a few long Saturdays repairing the damage and cleaning things up for the warm season.

I don't mind though. Just as I love new spring flowers, I love the results of a freshly cleaned home, groomed rose bushes, garden boxes planted with my favorite vegetables, and a brightly decorated screen porch ready for use. Winter can be bleak, especially towards the end, so it's nice to get a chance of pace. Even if it requires a little work.

For a writer, spring brings the opportunity to take your creativity outdoors - literally and figuratively. Unless you live in the south where the winters are mild, you've likely been trapped inside for the last few months using chocolate and strong coffee for motivation. I've said it before, winter can be very dispiriting. Even an occasional glimpse of sunshine during the gloomy season seemed to do wonders for my mood. Being able to go out onto my front porch and see the big blue sky allowing the sun to coat everything with it's warm rays is so refreshing. I can only speak for myself, but I find it to be a very inspirational writing tool.

In another sense, you can introduce more sunshine into your writing. I don't know about you, but it's harder for me to visualize the beauty of spring when the ground is covered in a cold sheet of snow. Your creative spirit has more range when you can literally experience what you want to write about. I'm not saying it's impossible to write about spring during the fall or winter, but there are details that are easy to forget when you're not in the moment. For example, the distinct smell of burgers on the grill, blooming lilacs, and fresh-cut grass. The sound of a gray squirrel scaling a tree to her nest, a woodpecker piercing the bark of an oak, or children playing outside. There's also the taste of fresh lemonade, garden vegetables, or honeysuckle nectar.

Use your senses to fuel your creativity!

Don't forget, however, to stop and smell the roses. As much as you should use spring to your writing advantage, you should also enjoy it. Put away the laptop and cleaning tools a couple of hours each day and just relax. Sip some sweet tea, and spend quality time with family and friends. After all, spring is only here for a season.

What about you? Does spring boost your mood? Do you find spring to be a motivational tool for writing?

2015 Goal #1 Completed!

Image by Seb Cooper via Flickr

My writing goal, number one, for 2015 has been accomplished! I have revised and submitted my inspirational romance manuscript to the agent, again. I think that warrants a firework, or two.

Now, I wait. Which, I have to tell you, is the worst part. So, in order to keep myself from being email obsessed, I will move on to goal number two, which is to complete my YA Fantasy.

To keep me on track for this goal, I've been researching some writing contests that I can enter it in. Since many writing contests for 2015 have already begun accepting submissions, and my story is only about fifty percent completed, I will likely enter next year. However, I'm still researching, so you never know - I might get aggressive with this goal and find a contest accepting submissions later in the year. Either way, I'll keep you posted on the progress, which will also keep me accountable.

Have you ever entered your novel, or other piece of writing, into a contest? What was the outcome? Would you do it again?

Update - Readying my Manuscript for Re-submission

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Have you ever completed something, something significant, only to find out that you had to start all over again. That's pretty much what happened to me with my current manuscript. After completing an edit for an agent in order to fit within the guidelines of a particular book series, I was told the book series was ending.

If you are a fan of inspirational romance, then you've probably heard of Heartsong Presents.

For the edit, I only had to add about 3,000 words to my manuscript, and I was more than happy to do it. The idea that my story, which I put my heart into, could have the opportunity to be picked for this series was very exciting. I'll admit, I was a little more than crushed to find out the news. Nonetheless, I wasn't about to give up on my dream to be published. I responded to the agent the only way that I felt I should.

"I understand. Thank you for the opportunity."

At first, it felt like the end of all opportunities for this story. Even though I knew this wasn't true, after having really high hopes for something, news like that was hard to take.

Thankfully, the agent wasn't ready to let me go. I was asked to edit my manuscript once again, but this time, for another series. As I mentioned in a previous post, this required a 20,000-word addition to my story. Although I was extremely thankful for the opportunity, I knew this was going to be challenging for me. Nonetheless, I began the edit - determined to make my story even better than before.

It's been nearly four months, and I'm happy to report, I have finally completed the large addition. As the cliche` goes, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Now, working to polish it for re-submission, I am so happy with the end result. The story is much more developed, and, since I had originally planned to continue this story with subsequent books, I feel a sense of closure.

My goal is to resubmit the manuscript on Monday. Literary agents are very busy folks, and must take their current clients with the highest priority, so I don't expect a quick response. However, I will be sure to keep you posted on the outcome of this exciting opportunity - good or bad.

Beating the Monotonous Routine

Last weekend, my husband and I got the rare opportunity to spend a few hours alone on Valentine's Day. Even rarer, we got to see a UK basketball game at Rupp Arena, which was a really nice treat.

Doesn't sound romantic? I say, it's what you make of it. Besides, you can't get much closer than two arena seats at a basketball game.

In addition to getting some quality time with my honey, it was really nice to get some time away from the norm of my daily routine. With my schedule, routines are important, but everyone should take time away from the monotonousness sometime - even if only for a few hours.

Being in a maximum filled, 23,000-capacity, arena also gives one the opportunity to see plenty of personality. I sometimes forget just how interesting, and unusual, people can be. Experiencing new and unusual personality quirks can give some great ideas to introduce into the characters of  a current story.

Since Christmas break, I've been struggling with motivation. I'm not sure if it's due to the winter season, or that I'm getting burned out on my current story (one can only stand to read and edit a story so many times), but it definitely helps to get out of the house and do something different. You should try it.

This week, I have dealt with a new dilemma. With the recent now fall, and record cold temperatures, I don't have the option to get out of the house. I've mentioned recently that the beauty of an occasional snow fall can spark inspiration; however, too much snow can definitely be a downer.

I mean, this is ridiculous! Yeah, that's my car.

With the threat of cabin fever at my doorstep, I have been forced to trudge on and try to accomplish as much as I can with my, most recent, story edit. In this situation, there is still hope to get away from the normal - even without leaving the house. Whether it's s'mores in the living room over a candle, enjoying snow cream, or bundling up for some snow angle-making, there are still ways to beat the monotonous routine.

Do you find it hard to stay motivated during the winter season? How do you beat the monotonous routine?

Love Is In the Air

Image by Tim Hamilton via Flickr

L'amour...

 As Valentine's Day draws near, and you're plagued with pink and red, loved-themed products and advertising everywhere you go, you can't help thinking about the ones you love. For writers of romance, this time of year can certainly help inspire story ideas, or motivate progress on a current story. Everyone has days, weeks, or even months when either, or both, inspiration or motivation is lacking. With all the love in the air, this is a great time to take advantage of your friend's and co-worker's gushing confessionals about their Valentine's Day date-nights or romantic getaways. Use it as an opening to find out how they met.

Maybe you have your own romantic plans to motivate you. No Valentine? Maybe a romance movie marathon is a great substitute! It's certainly a great way to spark inspiration for your own romance story ideas, and the best part...you don't have to share your box of chocolates.

Are you feeling inspired or motivated as Valentine's Day draws near? Have any of your current stories been inspired by someone's personal love story?

Your Manuscript's Word Count is Important

Image by Pierre Metivier via Flickr

Probably, many of you already understand the importance of your manuscript's word count when considering traditional publishing. However, I'm posting this anyway because I didn't take this into account when I began writing my first "novel" (an inspirational romance), and it is important to consider. 

I am currently in the process of editing my manuscript because it isn't long enough for the book series I am targeting for publication. When I first began writing the story, I researched the minimum standard word count that represented a novel, which most sources will tell you is between 40,000 to 50,000. Because of my inexperience, and lack of research, I targeted my book for 50,000 words and that was that. I believe I ended up with about 47,000 when I completed the final draft and began querying literary agents. 

Many of the rejections I received didn't give me any feedback, so I didn't really know why they weren't interested in my story. I assumed I needed to revise my query letter, which was true. My letter wasn't terrible, but it did lack the potential to stand out in the sea of other queries.

When an agent did finally requested to see my full manuscript, they recommended it for a particular book series that required a maximum word count of 50,0000. Perfect, right? Well, it was until the publisher decided to cancel the book series. Luckily, the agent is allowing me to revise my book for another series, which requires 70,000 to 75,000 words. Terrific, right? Well, yes, but my manuscript was only at 50,000 words. That meant I had to add 20,000!

You're probably thinking, that's not too bad. After all, writing 20,000 words doesn't take that long. Well, when you're adding that many words to an existing manuscript, the addition is going to consist of more than fluff. I finally have the attention of an agent, I don't want to take away from the story, but instead, add value. In doing so, I've had to introduce a few new characters - one with a significant role - as well as a subplot. These changes have lead to multiple revisions and adjustments to the existing story.

Although it has been about two months since the agent's request, and I am finally on the downward slope to finishing the addition, I could have avoided this large revision if I had done a little research. 

I reviewed several sources for recommended word count, and most of them will tell you to target your first novel at an average of about 80,000 words. This is between the recommended range of 70,000 to 90,000. I would recommend considering a couple of things before settling on a particular number.

1. Consider your genre and target audience. Although 80,000 words is recommended for a fiction novel, as little as 40,000 and up to 120,000 words is considered novel range by definition. The reason for this is because different genres have different recommendations for word count. For example, if you're writing an adult mystery novel, the recommended word count is between 70,000 - 90,000, while the recommendation for a YA fiction is between 50,000 - 70,000. 
2. Consider the agency's guidelines. Each agent may have a range that they are more comfortable representing, so it is worth the time to go over your list of target agencies/agents and check their recommendations. I have seen on several agency sites where their guidelines state a minimum or maximum acceptable word count, even though a lower or higher one is generally accepted. 

What is your manuscript's word count? Have you ever had to revise it for an agent or editor?

Winter Inspiration

Ah...Kentucky winters. Normally, they bring cold and dreary days with lots of clouds and moisture that make you want to retreat to your bed and hibernate until spring. Then, other times, they bring a beautiful sheet of winter wonder that you can't help but to stare at in awe. When I looked out my kitchen window Saturday morning, I was like a child seeing their first snow. It doesn't matter how many times I've seen it - each time it happens, it casts a magical spell over me that soothes my soul and makes me smile. Can't you just smell the wood burning in the fireplace, and taste the rich hot chocolate topped with white pillows of fluffy sugar. There's just something about a good snow that lifts my spirit and inspires me during this, usually, gloomy season.

As a writer, it can be so hard to find the energy, let alone the inspiration, to be productive during the cold months. I believe that much of it has to do with attitude. Whether you continue exercising on a consistent basis, or liven up your home with cheerful colors and uplifting scents, there are ways you can boost your mood, and help keep a positive outlook until the song birds return. Inevitably, winter will continue to arrive each year bringing its, sometimes, harsh elements. Instead, of retreating to a state of gloom and doom for the winter season, try finding something positive, beautiful, or even magical to inspire you.

What inspires you this winter?

Still sailing...

Image by supercake via Flickr

Hello out there world. I'm still here - still kicking, still sailing. To all my very few followers, sorry for the long delay, and thank you for still lingering to see where this quest takes me. Like many newbie bloggers before me, I have managed to turn this blog into a job, instead of having fun, and doing what I love to do more than just about anything - write. I have come to the realization, though, that I can't act as if my love for writing is the only aspect of my life that I care about. I also love being a mother, a wife, reading, organizing (everything I touch), cooking, gardening, living in Kentucky, and serving God (last but not least), among many other things.

I am still working vigorously and passionately on my quest for writing success, and I have some exciting goals this year that I plan to meet, and will soon share with you. In the meantime though, I hope I can begin again fresh starting with a blog face-lift (hope you like it - I'm up for suggestions). You can also expect posts to be a little more relaxed, fun, and concerning a variety of topics, which, of course, still revolve around my quest to become a published author. So, happy New Year everyone! I hope you've set some goals for yourself too, and are well on your way to achieving them!