Too Many Books

I love to read. I mean really love to read. And right now I'm reading up to 4 books. There are so many books I want to read, but haven't yet.
To me reading is relaxing. Even the books that take you on a roller coaster--yes, I can relax on the coaster. I love having my imagination sparked with ideas. I love reading into a world someone else has created. I love reading how characters handle certain situations.
















I just love to read.

I can't remember a time in my life where I wasn't reading. I've always had a book I'm reading. It's only been later here in life that I've learned to read more than one book at a time. I find it fun. I don't read the same type of books together. Right now I'm reading a YA, a devotional, a women's fiction and a contemporary romance. All different, yet all intriguing.

What about you? Voracious reader? Not at all? Can you read more than 1 book at a time?

(Photo courtesy of Google Images)

When It's Not Working

I'm talking from a writer's perspective this morning.
I know all writers are different and they have their own way of doing things. Some plot, some don't.
Some know every scene before they start writing.
Some don't.
I don't.
But I've come to know my progress and it works for me. It really does. For the most part.
Today wasn't a most part.
And this is what I've learned over the years regarding my writing process.
If it's really hard to write a scene--usually it's the wrong scene.
I spent over an hour this morning on a few hundred words.
It's not working.
But, at least I have something down. I will think on what I've written. And I did have a light bulb moment while writing, so I know it was all worthwhile.
I need to take the light bulb moment and create my scene around that.
So, I will think on this today, then tomorrow get back at it.

How about you? What do you do when things seem like they're not working?

Daily Blogging Routine

This is a short post about checking out other bloggers. I find I have a routine in the morning.
First I check out the F.A.I.T.H. Blog.

Then I always go to the Seekerville Blog.

And lastly I check out my good friend Ciara's Blog.


I'm a member of the F.A.I.T.H. blog--so it's pretty obvious why I check that out.

Seekerville always, and I mean always, has something interesting happening.

The same with Ciara. She's got great info and her 'have I found your book' post is fun to participate in.


What blogs are you checking on a regular basis?

New Restaraunt

There's a new restaurant open in Decatur, Georgia. Click here to see the website. Awesome food, great atmosphere and affordable prices make 246 a place that should be on your list of places to visit.

Okay, yes, I have a personal vested interest. My son works there. He is a cook who helps prepare all those delicious foods you will eat. The kitchen and the people preparing all this food are visible to the crowd of people eating there.

Trendy, urbany decor graces the place. The servers are very nice and attentive.

So you have no reason not to check it out. I said so!

Ciara's Blog/Fun Idea

Check out my friend Ciara Knight's Blog. Once a week she has a very cool post. She features a book on her website. The author or the book doesn't know she's doing featuring it. Then she sees if through all the social media outlets the author finds her post. It's a very cool concept.
Check it out!

June is Almost Over

June--the wedding month, the first 'summer' month. It's a lovely month in most cases. This year for me it was the CRAZY month.
Crazy with activities, commitments and fog-inducing emotional issues. But today is the 28th. With 30 days in the month that only leaves 2 days.
Like everything will go back to normal because the calendar says it's July.
Well, one can hope, can't they?
Yes, June was all my own doing.
Yes, I said I'd judge this, teach that, take this class, prepare this workshop. Yes, I said those things. And I did those things. But I forgot--Do I have a husband? Children? Grandchildren?
Ah--I think I do.
I better go make sure they still know who I am and that I do LOVE them very, very much!!
Do you ever find yourself overwhelmed?
I think I'll have a ceremonial changing of the calendar when I flip the page from June to July. Sound like a good idea?

Free Download

Her Best Catch is now a free Kindle download on Amazon.com. click HERE to download! Good through tomorrow--June 26th!

New Ideas

One of my favorite parts of writing, besides writing 'The End' when I'm finished with a novel is coming up with the ideas for a novel. Then, when I get the ideas it usually takes a little time and tweaking to flesh them out enough for me to write. After I write about 3 chapters I'm usually in 'the zone' for that novel, and can somewhat plan a little bit more of it.
I do have to know the ending before I start. But of course it's a happy ending. Nothing else will do!
So, this morning, I've been working away and I've come up with almost everything I need for a 3 book proposal. I have one more item I'm working on, and I will be thinking on that today. With any luck that one part will come to me and I can jot it down. :)
Then I have all I need to keep working on my series.

There's so many things I love about the writing process--what about you?

Lindi P.
Happy Endings Are Just The Beginning

Gems of Wisdom-Book Launch

Today I'm honored to share with you a debut release Gems of Wisdom. Author Angela Breidenbach show how to improve interpersonal skills for better relationships. The book uses gems as memory anchors.


Angela also partnered with Pamba Toto to design a line of jewelry which in turn helps orphans through Hope's Promise Orphan Ministries.


I asked Angela why she wrote Gems of Wisdom. This is what she told me:

I believe it's a part of the ministry God called me to. He didn't make a mistake when he gave me to my mom, the experiences I've lived, and my intense desire to gain wisdom. Writing Gems of Wisdom: For a Treasure-filled Life is about how I can help other people with what I've learned.

I had the pleasure of taking an online class of Gems of Wisdom with Angela. The study was very detailed, powerful, and helpful. You see, you can tell when you're being presented with 'information' and you can tell when you're being presented what I like to call 'heartmation.' Yes, I made the word up, but it's info from the heart. It's not just head knowledge, it's heart knowledge. And Angela's book comes from her heart written with a heart to help others overcome obstacles she herself, along with most of us, have been through. The Lord has gifted Angela with the ability to teach in a caring and loving manner.

Gems of Wisdom is available here. and here.

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day!! The weather here in Georgia is wonderful today. Hope where ever you are and whatever you do is filled with sunshine and joy!

Make sure you stop by tomorrow. Angie Briedenbach will be our guest!

So, my hubby and I took the grandkids to the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway this past Saturday. We bought tickets in advance and had the day planned. Friday night I tried to be proactive. I tried to charge the camera battery. I mean, what good grandparent doesn't take pictures on a day trip with the grandkids? Especially when you've going to a very cool and scenic place.
I looked at looked and couldn't find the charger. My hubby got home around midnight from an out of town business trip and I told him about not being able to find the charger.

Hubby: "When did you use it last?"
Me: "Can't remember."
Hubby: "You really need to have a spot where you put all those types of things."
Me: "I do have a spot. It wasn't there."
Hubby--giving me a funny look: "Well, then you must not have put it back. I think I remember you calling me recently and asking me to bring it to you, but then you said you already had it."
Me: "Hmm."

I mean really--what do you say to that? It's Sunday night and I still can't find it. I would show you the picture we had to pay $10 bucks for because we were at the mercy of the Scenic Railway people--you know, because we didn't TAKE our camera, but I gave it to the grandkids to take home. A souvenir.

But can you picture this?
The train.






these two cute kids






and me and my hubby on the train.









I really need to work at being a better grandma!

New Month New Rules

May is right around the corner. I've been thinking about this blogging thing. How I either need to do it or not. I've been looking around at other people's blogs, seeing what I like to read, seeing what holds my interest. I figure if I'm reading there must be something about it I like.
Or if I start reading then quit, there must be something about it that doesn't hold my interest.
I'm going to try an experiment for the month of May. I'm going to post on general, everyday life stuff. Stuff nobody in the world may care about but me.
I mean I have things that happen to me on a daily basis. Funny things, sad things. There are things happening in the media--I mean we had a royal wedding today. Oh, and my son just announced his engagement to a fabulous girl the whole family loves.
Yes, see, I have things.
And this weekend hubby and I are watching the grandkids. Fun. Tonight I took them for mexican food. The little guy, who's three said he wanted a chicken taco, beans and rice. I ordered it. When it came to the table he said he didn't want any of it. I said, well it was only 3.99. Eat more chips and dip.
I mean I'm not stressing over it. He ended up eating the chicken out of the taco anyway before all was said and done.
Fun stuff.
Yeah, we'll see how May goes.

First Sale Chat on F.A.I.T.H.

Click HERE and check out who just received 'The Call!'
It's always exciting to read about someone getting the great news their manuscript has sold.

Great Meeting

Usually once a year the Georgia Romance Writers offer a special all day meeting. This year Author Nancy Knight hosted the workshop Well Begun Is Half Done.
First of all there's nothing like spending the day with a group of people who have the same passion you do. I also got to see some friends I don't see very often. All this in a setting that is focused on writing.
The workshop was great! The writing exercises were very helpful. Creativity sparkled around the room.
If you are a writer--or have a passion about anything--do you get the opportunity to share it with others that encourage and inspire you?

I'm Giving Away A Book

Check out Christy's Blog At Split Ends. She's taking part in the A-Z challenge and I'm blogging today. My letter was O. So I'm talking about Overcoming Obstacles. And we're giving away a copy of Her Best Catch!

Movie Watcher?

There are those out there who loves to watch movies. And can find the time. It's not that I have anything against movies, I just can't seem to make myself sit and watch one. Rarely.
I'm staring at 4 movies my daughter left with me to watch. She left them about a month ago. I have yet to see one of them. She told me about them, told me they were good, but that hasn't given me the incentive to plop in front of the television for a couple of hours.

She gave me Valentines Day, which I asked for.



New In Town--She said it was really cute.



August Rush--I don't know anything about it, but it looks good.



And Charlie St Cloud. Which I know is a bit sad, but it's looks romantic as well.

What about you? Are you a movie watcher?

(Pictures courtesy of Google Images)

Blog Hopping Today

Check out these two blogs for chances to win a copy of Her Best Catch and a gift card.

F.A.I.T.H.
and
Divine Imaginations.

At The Edge Of Darkness

I'm over at The Edge Of Darkness today. Ciara is hosting an A-Z challenge and I'm hosting the letter B.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

Click HERE to see what "B" is all about.

Good Stuff

Wednesday I was on Seekerville. What a blast! So much fun. And Wednesday was also the day my book became available on Amazon.com
I have so much to be thankful for. Yes, there's a lot of 'life' stuff happening as well, but we take the good with the bad, the happy with the sad, the stress with the peace.
Where are you at now?

Amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/Her-Best-Catch-Lindi-Peterson/dp/161194015X/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1301503090&sr=1-2

My book is on Amazon.com! I'm thrilled!

Her Best Catch Cover

Here it is!
My book cover!

F.A.I.T.H. Blog

Check out the The F.A.I.T.H. blog today.

Beautiful Day

It's warm and sunny in Georgia today. I was able to sit outside for awhile and enjoy some sunshine. My cat came out with me. I'm sure there will be more cold weather here. Soon, probably, but for today--enjoy!!

Relying

Lately I've been so humbled by what God is doing. What He is showing me. It's been a bit crazy with a lot of things going on. My hubby will tell you I've been a little frustrated lately at certain things that are way out of my control. The foundation that has been set by the Lord is how I overcome the frustrating aspects of my life.
Then there's the joyful thing that's coming---my book release. I can't tell you how blown-away I am by what God is doing in that part of my life. He receives all the glory for anything good regarding this whole process. I received a glimpse of my cover concept--needless to say I was thrilled. It also came on a day when I needed a thrill, if you know what I mean.
Some days the only thing we can rely on is the Lord and His provision.

Has the Lord given you provision lately to get through or over something?

Book Cover

I'm very, very excited!! My book cover will be here soon. Will post as soon as I can!

Check Out F.A.I.T.H.

Check out the F.A.I.T.H. post for today. Talking about writing groups.

Chronological Bible Reading Week 8

February 28-March 5th

Read Leviticus 1:1-15:33

Changing The Look--Again!

Yes, here we are. Changing the look of the blog again! But there is something about this red color that I like. Maybe it's because red is the color I associate with love. Red is the color of the blood Jesus shed on the cross so God could show His ultimate love for us.
So to me, red is important.

This is the card my dh gave me for Valentine's Day. I love it! See how much red is on it?

When I think of summer I think yellow.
When I think of tears I think soft blue.

What about you? do Do you have a favorite color? Are there colors you always associate with certain things?

Contest at F.A.I.T.H. Today

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!
Check out the contest at the F.A.I.T.H. blog today.

Chronological Bible Reading Week 6

Actually this will cover a couple of weeks.
From Feb 24-Feb 28

Read Exodus 19:1-40:36

Read what you can daily.

Creepy!

This morning at six o'clock dark-thirty, i took my dog out. I was standing on the porch when a bat flew by my head! It grazed my hair before flying into a gutter. My dog starting going crazy and so did I. Then it started flying around again, so I ducked and got into the house as quickly as I could.
I don't think dog was too thrilled to be coming in so soon, but too bad!
I wasn't about to be attacked again.

How do you handle bats flying in your hair?

Chronological Bible Reading Week 6

Week 6:

Read Exodus 7:1 through 18:27

Just divide this up during the week.

Writing Challenge

There is a writing challenge going on over at Christy's blog.

Check it out and join in.

Chronological Bible Reading Week 5

Posting a little late this week---Sorry!! But you can do it.

Jan 31-Feb 1: Genesis 47:1-50:26
Feb 2-3: Exodus 1:1-2:15
Feb 4-5 Exodus 2:16-6:30

There we go!

Chronological Bible Reading Week 4

Here are the Bible readings for this week.

All week--read Genesis 37:1 through Genesis 46:34

My great friend Ciara Knight nominated me for the Stylish Blog award. Thank you, Ciara!!

And now, here are the rules that go along with accepting the award:

1) Thank and link back to the person who awarded you this award.

2) Share 7 things about yourself.

3) Award 15 or so, recently discovered great bloggers.

4) Contact these bloggers and tell them about the award!

Okay, 7 things about me...

1. I just read Outlander and LOVED it! Historical fiction
always has been one of my favorite genres.

2. I am a NASCAR fan and this year I'm going to
root for Kevin Harvick. He's cute!

3. I am a cat person and have 2 cats. Jasper (named long before
the Twilight series) and Nessie, (named for the Twilight series.)

4. My favorite type of vacation is a cruise.

5. I love the Lord with all my heart and soul.

6. If there was one gift I wished I had it would be to
be able to sing--well.

7. Writing is my passion. I simply LOVE it.

Blogs I love---

1. Romancing The Palate. I love the idea of foodie romances--and there are great recipes here! And there's a contest with a really cool prize running right now through the 26th of January--hurry over!

2. Girly Girl by Kristin Billerbeck. Kristin makes me laugh! I love her posts. She doesn't pull punches--she tells it like it is! Love this blog.

3. Petit Fours and Hot Tamales. A great group of ladies, who if they aren't published they are on the verge. Awesome writing tips, great discussions--this blog has it all.

4. Christy LaShea. Love this blog! Christy is having a TTIN--The Time Is Now---challenge. She keeps us accountable--and motivated. Check this out!!

Chronological Bible Reading Week 3

Here are the Bible readings for week 3.
Jan 17-18, 19-20, 21-22, and 23-24 Genesis 25:1-36:43

Again, we're venturing into week 4, but that's okay. This week we continue with the book of Genesis.
Anything interesting from last week you'd like to discuss?

Snow Pics

Chronological Bible Reading Week 2

Hi all!! I hope you are liking the pace of the 2 year plan. It gives a little more time for reflection, plus if you are doing another study there's time for that, also.
Here is the schedule for week 2.
(I'm going through Sunday the 16th-Sometimes, in the 2 year plan, they give 2 days to read a passage of scripture. That's what is happening this week.) But I'll still post the new schedule next Sunday.

Jan 9-10 Genesis 12:1-15:21
Jan 11-12 Genesis 16:1-20:18
Jan 13-14 Genesis 21:1-24:67
Jan 15-16 Same as Above (this is what I meant by the 2 day plan)

So this week, we'll read Genesis 12-24.

May God be revealing to you as you read.

Saturday

Today is Saturday! And the weathermen and women are predicting snow here in Georgia for Sunday night into Monday morning. So we'll see how that goes. We've already had snow here at Christmas. For the first time since 1882 it snowed on Christmas Day. We had about 4 inches here in Ball Ground. It was a fun type of snow, one that you could drive in. Not sure about the one they are predicting.

Tomorrow I will be posting the Chronological Bible readings for the week.

Enjoy your weekend!!

Chronological Bible Reading

There's been some interest in reading the Bible chronologically. I'll post here every Sunday night the readings for the week. If anyone has a questions or just something they thought was interesting we can talk about it.
This is a 2 year schedule, so the readings are very doable with everyone's busy schedule. I know I'm late this week--I was on vacay!! But you can jump right in.
Jan 1-2 Genesis 1:1-4:26
Jan 3-4 Genesis 5:1-6:22
Jan 5,6,7,8 Genesis 7:1-11:32

So this week is Genesis 1-11:32

Will post next weeks schedule on Sunday.

Changing the Site Again

Yes, the blog looks different. I've changed it again! But I have always loved the color purple--any shade of it. And I'm really into 'simple.'

So here is what I've come up with.

Now, if I can just get back to blogging!!!

Inspired

Do you ever feel inspired to do something you don't normally do?

I'm talking about song writing. I don't normally write songs. But I wanted a song to put in my book Her Crazy Love. On the way to work one day, a few months ago, the words just came to me. I sang/spoke them into my voice notes on my phone and wrote them down later. I felt like the song was perfect for my heroine in my book. And well, that was that. There was a purpose.

But last week I felt like God spoke to me in a dream. He gave me the name of a song. A song for me to write. I resisted for a couple of days, but then I wrote. Within an hour I had a song written.

I'm sure no one will ever hear these songs, but I enjoyed writing them.

Have you ever been nudged to do something that is totally out of your realm?

Talking up Jesus

The announcement of the winner of Her Reluctant Bodyguard is up over on the The F.A.I.T.H. blog. Make sure you check that out.

And over on the F.A.I.T.H. blog I'm talking about how word of mouth is great advertising. It's the best way to talk up a product you really like. Well, the same is true about the gospel.
Tell 2 friends.
Then maybe they'll tell 2 friends. And so on!
Jesus has made a tremendous name for himself. God has written the bestselling book in all the world. Seems like they wouldn't need the word of mouth advertising, huh. And no, God doesn't NEED it. He requires it.

Matthew:
18 Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." NIV

Think about how you've felt when you've read a good book, seen a great movie, ate a delicious dinner whether it's at a restaurant or you've made it yourself. Don't you just want to tell people about it? About your experience? Well, Jesus Christ is more exciting than any book, movie, or food item we can talk about.

So what do you say? Are you willing to go tell 2 friends?

Book Give-Away at F.A.I.T.H.

I know it's late in the day, but if you are checking in, check out the F.A.I.T.H. Blog.

We have a great writing tip posted by Jennette Green and we are giving away her new book Her Reluctant Bodyguard.

Come on over!

Goal Challenge

Christy LaShea has posted a goal meeting challenge at her blog At Split Ends.
It doesn't have to be writing related and there are prizes.
Come join!!

Giveaway At The F.A.I.T.H. blog

We are giving away a copy of Maureen Hardegree's book Haint Misbehavin' over at the F.A.I.T.H. Blog. Check it out and leave a comment to be in the drawing!!

5 Keys to Your Successful Writing Journey

This is the topic I'm speaking on at North Springs United Methodist Church tonight. They have a writer's group, Word Weavers, which my friend Alice Godbold either started or helped to start. I met Alice in 2007 at Lay Missionary Training through the United Methodist Church. We immediately connected because of our love of the Lord and writing, and have kept in touch.
I appreciate her asking me to come and talk to the group. I'm a bit nervous as I don't think I've ever done this before on my own. I have spoken with Missy Tippens. We have presented a couple of workshops together, but this may be my first attempt at a solo!
So if you think about it, a prayer or two would be helpful.

New Design

I've redesigned my blog!!! Yeah!! I really like it. I accidentally changed the whole background a few months ago---and wasn't really fond of it.
I decided to play with the design tonight, and I found something I really like.

Maybe this will be the start of a new blogging regime for me.

June 2010

Hi all--
Wow, June 2010--already. I will admit to not posting here very frequently. But I hope that will change.
New season.
New stuff.
I know I'm gonna have to post regularly to get people back reading. And I will!!

Have a great Sunday.

Revisions and Revelations

Well, I went on vacay and I'm back and finally into the swing of things. I'm still not unpacked mind you. Seriously, I have issues there!! But I need to get all these things done and there isn't enough time in the day.

I entered the Golden Heart contest for unpublished authors. You enter online then mail your six copies of the entry and synopsis plus a copy of the completed book. Yes, the book has to be completed. Which mine is but.....

I'm still working on revisions. Revisions so if someone actually reads the book all the plot points come together, the character's arc has arched. You get the drift.

What I have found out is that I'm a very, and I mean very, lean first draft writer. Which means I have a lot, and I mean a lot, of work to do after I've written the first draft. I've even thought of in the future when I'm done with the first draft I should just say, "I've finished my outline. Yes, my 234 page outline." How crazy is that?

At least this weekend I've had some sort of revelation. You can read about it over at the F.A.I.T.H. Blog. Please hop over and say hi!

Sunday Psalm

Psalm 63:1-2

O God, You are my God
Early will I seek You;
My soul thirsts for You;
My flesh longs for You
In a dry and thirsty land
Where there is no water.
So I have looked for You in the sanctuary,
To see Your power and Your glory.

NKJV Nelson Study Bible


We must always seek God---He is the water for our thirsts.

The Story

Yes, I've updated the blog a little on the side-bar. I've actually got a synopsis of my current wip--Dreaming of You.

Here it is:

Kyla Stewart revists her hometown to find the truth about her very unconventional mother. Ryan Maverick might be able to provide some answers, but he's determined to prove her accusations against his father are false.
Seeing her grandmother and Ryan hold steadfast to their faith gives Kyla an insight to God she's never seen before.
Nevermind that Kyla has been dreaming of Ryan for the past six months. Coming face to face with her dream threatens her resolve to live in reality.
Can Ryan change Kyla's heart? Make her see that sometimes God has dreams for us we don't know about?
Or will Kyla run when she finds the truth and miss out on what God has in store for her life.


This story has been so much fun to write. I really like the characters and the feelings and emotions that are being revealed as I write them.

Fun Stuff About Love!

I LOVE watching the Bachelor and Bachelorette shows. Because I love love and love romance and love watching people interact and gettng to know each other, the show holds my interests.
Rarely do the matches that result from the show come to anything more than a few months of dating, but lately there's been a shake-up in the reality Bachelor and Bachelorette world.
It looks like both couples from last year are engaged.


Here is last year's Bachlorette, Jillian and her guy Ed. Jillian moved to Chicago where Ed lives.



And here are Jason and Molly. I won't go into their story. You can read all about it on the internet, but it was crazy. They are now engaged. Yeah!!

I know two engagements doesn't mean there will even be one wedding, but I have a feeling there will be. We'll just have to wait and see!

Happy Love!

This picture describes my revision process speed.
Slow.
Crazy slow.
But I think it's making the book better. At least I hope so. I hope I'm not taking all this time with the same results. I don't know.
I've been reading my how-to books as I go through this process, trying to utilize all the tools I have at my disposal to create a novel that people will enjoy reading and want to finish.
I want to create characters that people care about.
I hope I'm not trying too hard.
The thing is I think I can tell if something's working. I'm pretty good at that. I'm just not so good at being able to fix it quickly. It takes me time. Time to process and analyze. Maybe the more I do it the quicker I'll get.
Let's hope.

Sunday Psalm

Today's Psalm.....


Psalm 17:7-8

I will bless the Lord who has given me counsel;
My heart also instructs me in the night seasons.
I have set the Lord always before me;
Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.



This is an amazing, uplifting Psalm...One I need to keep in mind.
We need to set the Lord before us always.
The Lord never fails, He is faithful and true.

Happy Sunday!!

Chapters 1-6 Pages 1-72

This blog was originally titled Belinda's Writing Journal. And for the next little while that is going to be the way of this blog. I doubt anyone is reading anyway. That's all right, too. I just need somewhere to track my progress, vent my frustrations and be albe to say "Hey--it's working out!"

I've basically spent this week on chapters 4-6. Yes, all week. I only write in the morning before I go to work. But, I do believe all the hard work paid off. I really like the chapters and I think there is a much better flow, a lot less useless conversation, a lot more tension, a lot less mumble jumble. So for this it was worth it. I'm going to continue on today with what ever I can get done starting now with chapter 7, which I think used to be chapter 9.

Tomorrow I'm taking the day off writing and after church we (Lenny and I) are going to spend the afternoon with our grandchildren at their house. We are really looking forward to that.

Then of course, Monday a.m. back at it. I will have to speed it up, though. At revising three chapters a week I'll be doing this a lot longer than I need to be doing this. I need to enter the Golden Heart. Good thing the entry is ready, now I just need to make sure the rest of the manuscript is a-okay.

Losing Words :(

Yes, they are flying off the page but into another file. Hopefully I can use these scenes later. So while I've dropped about 3,000 words, yes, that's a lot of words, I think the story is benefiting from the loss.
But my mind is reeling, somewhat. I really worked hard on those scenes. Put every word down with a purpose. So I'm redirecting the purpose to later in the book.
This morning I've take a scene, changed it's POV and combined it with another scene. Again cutting the words to better the novel.
Remember the old saying "this is harder on me than it is on you?"
I'm picturing my manuscript saying that to me as I highlight and hit those little pair of scissors that come up.
But then I go to another file and paste the scene there.
For now.
Have a great Saturday.

Making Real Progress

Yes, this morning I am making real progress. The new scene I wrote yesterday fits into the novel like I wanted it to. I'm still rearranging---still trying to get the manuscaript to be as tight as it can be.
Succinct.
So the reader doesn't have time to put the book down. Doesn't lose interest in the relationship forming between Kyla and Ryan.
Because after all, this is a romance.
So the reader wants to feel the connection between these two and wonder why the two don't see it!!
Or maybe the reader sees that Ryan and Kyla get the connection forming but of course they (Ryan and Kyla) aren't acting on it.
The reader keeps reading hoping Ryan and Kyla come to their senses.
It's all about creating emotion. Emotion within the story and that emotional connection to the reader.
With the rough draft I had a sense of story direction. I feel like I had a complete story, a complete puzzle with the pieces scattered across the dining room table waiting for someone to come along and piece it together.



That's what I'm doing. Piecing it all together.
Thank you to anyone who's been praying. I'm praying for you, too.

Revising Revisions

I'm printing pages 61-67 a totally new scene I've written for Dreaming Of You. (further referred to in all posts as DOY.) That's what it feels like sometimes a
DOY!!

Writing brand-new scenes wasn't in my projected revision process. So now, in reviewing the new scene(s) written during the revision process I'm revising the revisions.
Wow.
I guess I can do that. I mean I'm trying.
I'm really praying to God also to keep the desire alive in me. I was so excited about this book.
I started DOY on May 18th. Was about half-way through when I found out the first 25 pages were a finalist in the Maggie Contest. Well that bit of encouragement fueled me on to finish the book. I was extremely excited about revising and the added bonus of getting a request from an agent at the Moonlight and Magnolia's Conference put on by the Georgia Romance Writers fueld me even more. But the more work it's turning out to be the more the fuel is burning out.
If you're inclined to pray, please pray for the excitement to rear it's head again.

Jake the Bachelor and More

Jake is going to be the next bachelor! Yeah! I hope he finds that special woman. I really wanted it to be Reid, but I have my own story for Reid. I've matched him up with a girl named Mandy and my next book is titled, Marry Me Mandy. Still working out all the plot points, but it's going to be a fun book, with six year old twin girls, Reid, Mandy and a dance studio. Fun stuff!!

Well, it will be fun stuff if I ever finished revising Dreaming of You. I'm afraid if anyone is reading this blog you're going to have to journey with me through this revision.
Sorry!!!

Added part of a new scene this morning. Now off to the day job.

Realization

Things I've realized.

I haven't posted in a long time.
Revising my book is A LOT of work.

I supposed that's because I am learning as I go. I learn more and more about my characters as I write, then when I go back I need to infuse some of that in the beginning.
Also, scenes. Wow. I'm combining and deleting. It's a bit overwhelming for me this morning. Mornings are really the only time I have to work on the book. I've been getting up early and today it didn't seem like I accomplished anything.

Although I'm sure I did. The revising is going way slower than I thought it would. But I want the book to be the best I can make it. There are places I could it just like it is, but I know I can make it better. And whatever it is inside of me won't let me just leave it.

The funny thing is this. I promised myself when I finished I'd go out at buy myself the book Revising and Self-Editing by James Scott Bell. You know, to help with my revisions. but as I'm revising I'm still focusing on his Plot and Structure book. Oh well, life is funny.

F.A.I.T.H. Girl Blogs--Check them out today

We're discussing plotting wishes over at F.A.I.T.H. today. Come over and visit.

Sunday Psalm

Psalm 138: 1-3

1 I will praise You with my whole heart; Before the gods Iwill sing praises to You
2 I will worship toward Your holy temple, and praise Your name For Your lovingkindness and Your truth; For You have magnified Your word above all Your name.
3 In the day whne I cried out, You answered me, And made me bold with strength in my soul.



God will answer if we but call on Him.

Have a great Sunday!

Dreaming of You

If you look to the sidebar to the right you'll see the word count has gone up dramatically. That's one of the reasons for the absence of posts this summeer. I started this book May 18th and am 5 chapters away from being done. I've spent all my free time working on this story.
I'm still liking it and hope to finish by next weekend.

Cuz, I hope you're ready to read a book. I need feedback.

F.A.I.T.H. Blog today

Hi. We're talking about 'The Story Within Us' today over at theF.A.I.T.H. blog today. Come and visit and share a story or two.

F.A.I.T.H. blog today

We're talking about agents and editors over at the F.A.I.T.H. blog today. Come over and check it out!!

Coming Up

Hope everyone had a great weekend. I know I did.

Come back and visit this week. I have some pics from yesterday (Pedicures and The Revelation) and I have a book review of my critique partner's June release His Forever Love.

Hope you'll come back and check them out.

Memorial Day

Today is Memorial Day. Take the time to remember and pray for those who have fought and are currently fighting for the sake of our freedom. Thier families and the nation need so much prayer, also.

We have a cloudy day here in Georgia. It's been rainy, cloudy all weekend, but that's my fav kind of weather. I know a lot of people have plans with their family or friends. Have a fun day, but keep in our hearts the men and women who have dedicated thier lives for our freedoms.

Sunday Psalm

Sunday May 24th

Psalm 40:1-3
I waited patiently for the Lord,
He inclined to me,
And heard my cry.
He also brought me up out of a horrible pit,
Out of the miry clay,
And set my feet upon a rock,
And established my steps.
He has put a new song in my mouth
Praise to our God;
Many will see it and fear,
And will trust in the Lord.
NKJV


We are almost done with our series 40 at church. We read this Psalm the Sunday after Easter and are celebrating the 40 days Jesus walked the earth after the resurrection.
We are also singing a song by U2---titled 40. It's based on this Psalm. Check it out on You Tube if you have a minute.

Jess and other stuff

I know it's been a while since I've posted. For all those praying for Jess, she got through surgery great, spent almost 30 days in the hospital, but is now out, doing well, back to work and enjoying life. Jess's passion is food---she creates these very cool dishes and takes photos of them. Maybe I'll get her to post something here one day. Her food is fabulous!!

Everything else has been moving along. Still busy at the job, still writing in spare time, taking the summer off of bowling.

I've got two more manuscripts started. Very different books, but each with an important message from God.

I'm reading the Bible chronologically with a lady at church. Donnah and I meet every Sunday morning at 9:30 to go over what we have read the week before. It's been such a blessing and really, even if you've read the stories before there is always something to learn.

Today I was reading a Psalm that was reflecting back on the Israelites and how God had led them out of Egypt, had provided for them, and still, they turned from Him.
They whined and whined for food and he sent manna. Manna literally means what is it?

They soon grew weary and tired of their manna and complained.

It made me think on my life. I'm asking myself the hard question---what is my manna and am I complaining?
Reading God's word always gets me thinking!!! What about you?

Prayer for Jessica

This is Jessica and her husband Jon. Jessica is having a very risky surgery on Tuesday February 10th. Please join me in praying for her. This surgery is to remove a cancerous tumor from her pancreas. There are a lot of factors involved in this surgery.
So please pray. I will post an update Tuesday night.

F.A.I.T.H. Today

Check out F.A.I.T.H. today to find out our winner of the Jazzin' Up January contest.

Happy Birthday!!

Happy Birthday cuz Wendy!!

Have a great day!

Abundant Friday

Friday's verse:

"We know that we have passed from death to life because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death."

What the pastor was talking about last Sunday was choosing life instead of death. Right here and now. So these verses were to help us live each day abundantly---live in Him--through him. I hope they meant something to those who read them.

Thursday's Abundance

1Timothy 6:17-19
"Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good words, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life."

It takes me awhile to really read and understand scripture. Sometimes it seems like the words are obvious, but there is really more meaning to them than what we first think or see.

Halfway Through Abundant Living for the Week....

How's the abundant life coming so far? It's Wednesday. I hope you've been blessed by the things God is working in your life. Because if we look, God is around all the time. Everyday He shows up somewhere. I know there are days I don't see it.....But it's because I'm not looking.

Yesterday was inauguration day. Lots of coverage. History being made. It's truly amazing.

I'll post the other two verses Thursday and Friday.

Living Abundantly Day Two.....

The verses for day two are kind of long. We had really intersting discussions on these verses in church. A couple of different groups of people came up with something similar in talking about them.

Colossians 1:9-10 "For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;"

We talked about how the journey is always continuing. That as you increase your knowledge of God, you grow and this is such a continuous aspect of the walk with Christ.


Happy Birthday Melanie!!!

Living Life Abundantly This Week......

Almost a year ago my husband and I started attending a new church. I mean a brand new church. It's called The Quest and the mission/vision statement is "refusing to give up on God's dream for the world."

We (the church)are true to the vision/mission. My husband and I can't hardly put into words the difference this church has made in our lives. The best way I can describe it is like this. If you've ever thought about going on a mission trip, or doing some sort of mission work for your community...well that is this church. It's like living on some sort of a mission trip all the time. It's totally different from any church we've been to in the past. We have grown and been blessed and learned from the minute we started attending. It truly is amazing.

After the first of the year our pastor started a sermon series title "Unwritten." It's about faith and how you can't live that through somebody else. You have to experience faith and God and all that goes with it individually. No one else can have your experiences.

So this week he had us talking about 4 verses from the Bible and how living them out daily will cause you to live abundantly.

I will post these verses each day. Let me know what you think living these verses abundantly means to you. There are no right/wrong answers. I'm simply going to keep them in mind and see what happens.

The first verse is from the book of Ephesians.

Ephesians 4:1 "I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." NKJV Nelson Study Bible.

Ta Da---Introducing our Newest Addition.......

Titan



I work at a Nissan dealership and we had a mama cat hanging around. She had babies and they were living under a car. One of the ladies in service helped to feed mama while she was pregnant and helped to take care of the kittens. They were finally old enough to go to homes and well, I mean, how could I resist?
Our cat Jasper wished I would of resisted. He's not liking the family right now. He's basically hiding out, but all tell me that won't last long. I hope not. I love my kitty Jasper and I've grown quite fond of the new little one, too.
My hubby named him. Very appropriately I think! Don't you?

Titan is learning the lay of the house. He's also quit hissing.
He loves to play and jump. He's very fun to watch.

So what do you think? I mean really, how could you resist this face?

Fun Today Before The Big Reveal

Monday you learned we had a mccaw.
Tuesday you learend we had a cat.
Wednesday you learned we had a Lilac Crown Amazon.
Before I introduce you to our newest addition tomorrow I thought we'd have a little fun today.
Can anyone guess what our new addition is? With hubbys pet store background it could be anything. Or it could be another common household pet.
What's your guess?

Introducing....

Lila!


We've only had Lila about 2 years. Her owner became ill and couldn't take care of her anymore, so someone who knew we had birds asked if we could take her. So we did.
Lila is a Lilac Crown Amazon. She LOVES my hubby. We have her in our bedroom. When I walk in the room. Nothing. When Lenny walks in...whoo...does she get started. She makes all kinds of noise! She is thrilled.
Lila also loves peanuts. I mean really loves them.
She is a good bird, but one that stays in the cage. We don't handle her and I think she likes it that way. She's content for all of us to just talk and look at each other.

Any more bird stories out there? Or what about stories where people knew you were kind hearted and asked to you take in a pet that you hadn't planned on. Did it work out? Or not!
Check in tomorrow. We're going to have a little fun!

Now Introducing......

Our second longest running roommate is:
Jasper--(Quite the popular name now because of Twilight--although Jasper in Twilight is a little odd!)



We've had Jasper going on 13 years. He was dropped off at the pet store when hubby owned it. Jasper got along great with Shadow so we brought him home. He's my sweet, sweet kitty. He follows me everywhere, sits on my lap in the morning as I write. He sleeps with me every night. He purrs so loudly!!! He is a happy, lovable cat.
We can tell Japser misses Shadow. He's extra lovey-dovey since Shadow hasn't been here.
Jasper has taken to sleeping in my closet during the day. He climbs up on the highest rack and lays on my clothes. So if we ever can't find him we just look in the closet.

Any cat stories you'd like to share? Or just tell about your cat. We'd love to hear.

Check back tomorrow for the third in the brood.

Meet The Petersons

My hubby used to own a pet store. Before I met him the only pet I'd ever had was a cat. And I never had a pet when I lived on my own. There are just certain parts of pet ownership I can't handle.
So, when I my kids and I invaded Lenny's house many years ago we inherited quite a brood of characters. We had a dog, birds, goats, horses, and donkeys. Over the years we added and lost to the group. We raised a goat in the bathtub for a while because it was so cold outside. Sammy (the goat) grew up thinking he was a dog. We've had some fun times.
Last month we had to put Shadow to sleep. It was a very sad time for us. We miss her. I'm not sure if we'll get another dog. I'm leaving that up to my hubby. Whatever he decides will be okay by me.
But we did get a new addition to our household. Before I introduce you to him, (yes this addition is a boy) I thought I'd let everyone know who we already live with.
So this week I'm going to post each day our roommates (for lack of better terms). You can meet them one by one and at the end of the week I'll introduce to our new addition. (And let you know how they are all getting along!)

We are going in order of how long we've had these pets. The longest running Peterson Pet is Chiquita.


Chiquita is 18 years old was Lenny's before I met him. He raised her from a baby and she's quite the character. She has phrases and words she says quite often:
Here kitty, kitty.
What?
Uh huh.
Hello.
She also talks to herself in bird lingo with different voices and has quite a good time. She also screams when we leave the house. We cover our ears and run out the door. (I would say this is an exaggeration. It is for us but not our guests---sorry!)

Having a mccaw makes life interesting to say the least. I can't watch a you-tube video in the living room without getting her all riled up. She doesn't talk when people are around unless you're around a lot. She dumps her whole bowl of food out into the bottom of her cage.

Any bird stories out there? We'd love to hear.

Check back tomorrow for the second in our brood.

One More Day To Post

Just a reminder. There's one more day to post for the Jazzin' Up January contest on the F.A.I.T.H. blog. Go do it!

Jazzin January at F.A.I.T.H.

The Jazzin' Up January Contest is in full swing over at the F.A.I.T.H. blog. If you haven't checked it out, come on over. Add your paragraph to the mix and let's see where Katie Sue-Ann McCall is heading next week.

Getting Ready For January......

If you visit here, make sure you visit the F.A.I.T.H. blog every Monday in January. (Of course we'd like to see you there everyday!!)
But I am holding a month long contest in January on Mondays. What kind of contest?

Check it out this Monday, January 5th for all the details and part one of the Jazzin' January Contest.

Inspiration

We are talking about inspiration over at F.A.I.T.H. today. Check it out-be inspired!!

Merry Christmas to All

Here's a photo from last year....Merry Christmas to everyone.

Shadow

Here is a pic of our sweet dog Shadow. My hubby had Shadow before I met him. I always used to joke around and say the dog had seniority.
We had to put Shadow to sleep early last week. It was a very sad day in our house. She was over 16 years old and had a very good "doggy" life. We all miss her!!!
The kitty is walking around like "where's my buddy?"
Lenny's walking around like "where's my buddy?"
I"m walking around thinking "do I really miss the dog hair on the floor?" (She had very long hair!)
Pets are like part of the family and when they're gone it's like part of your life isn't quite the same.
For right now we're hanging out with the kitty and a couple of Macaws we are raising.
And of course we still have our blue and gold Chiquita and our lilac headed amazaon Lila. So we are not alone!! But it just isn't quite the same.

Over At F.A.I.T.H. . . . . .

I'm talking about Christmas over on the F.A.I.T.H. blog---.....Check it out and share a funny story or two.

Summer at F.A.I.T.H.?

We're imagining it's summer over on the F.A.I.T.H. blog. Come and see!!

26,503 and Counting

Whew! I'm rocking right along. Not at the 50,000 pace of the NaNoWriMo, but I'm still rocking. Any pace is better than no pace, right? I'm loving how this story is coming together. There have been a few twists and turns I haven't expected, but that's okay. It's what writing is all about.

F.A.I.T.H. and Word Count

Over on F.A.I.T.H. I'm talking about cities we'd love to visit, live in, or just are interested in. Go visit and check it out.
Also, look to the sidebar on the right. My word count for This Crazy Love I Never Expected is going up, up and up. I've hit the 25,000 mark.
Yeah!!!

Over at F.A.I.T.H. Today.....

We have a lot going on. I've posted a post titled Reality Check. I have a link to a great post from the Seekerville Blog from Tina Russo. I also have a link to Missy's post today on Seekerville.
So come on over to F.A.I.T.H. and check out my post and Missy's Seekerville post.

It's a fun day!!!

I Hit 20,000

Words, that is!!!

I had a vision for my manuscript This Crazy Love I Never Expected. It's a long story, but basically I've written almost the entire book in third person, hero/heroine point of view. Then I decided I wanted to write it in first person, heroine point of view, so I started over. The first chapters have done great in contests, but somewhere along the line I lost my vision of the story. I couldn't decide in which direction to go in. It was truly crazy.
I started another story which I believe God gave me to write. I have a good beginning of that story. Which is where it is stopping for now.

Because I have to finish This Crazy Love......
I just have to.
And I sent my Cuz the first three chapters to read and she was such an inspiration. She gave me encouraing words regarding the story and said she wanted to read more. My mother read them and liked them and said she would like to read the rest of the story.

Well, Cuz, Mother, hopefully before the end of the year you'll be able to read the whole book. I'm moving along,things are coming in place. I've written a synopsis that I have by my laptop as I work and I'm tweaking that as I go along.

Thanks to Missy to who read the synopsis. You guys are very helpful and encouraging at the same time. I couldn't do this without you.

So today I hit 20,000 words.

Keep watching the meter on the right of this blog to check my progress. In other words, keep me accountable. If you don't see it going up, comment!! Ask me what I'm doing and why I'm not writing!!

Thanks!

Real Birthday

It's Alex's official birthday. Happy day!! Love you, Mom.

Happy B-day for Alex!!

Actually his birthday isn't until Monday but since we are going to see him today I decided it was Happy Birthday Alex weekend! My baby will be 22. I can't believe how the time has flown by. From just a little (well, 9lbs 10 oz. isn't too little I guess) boy to a handsome grown man.

For all of you out there reading this with little ones, enjoy. The time they are young is shorter than you think.....I know, you don't believe me now, but it's true. (Missy, if you are reading this I know you feel the love here!!!)


Maybe I'll have some pics to post when we get home.

I've been Tagged by Christy.....

To find the 6th folder in my documents and the sixth picture in the folder.

Well, here it is!


This is the day after the girl's wedding. The whole family came to our house for a barbecue. I'm holding our precious grandson Tyler. He's five months old in this pic.

Last night we visited the grandkids and boy, has Tyler gotten bigger. I held him for a lot of the evening and whoo, my arm was getting tired.

Now I guess I have to tag somebody...Hmmm....Jane, Carol B. (And the F.A.I.T.H. girls who haven't participated!)

A Sale for a F.A.I.T.H. girl!!!

Our very own Jennifer Hudson Taylor has sold her first book!!!

Her manuscript Promised Blessings has been picked up by Abingdon Press and will be a spring 2010 release. I am thrilled for Jennifer. She's a great writer and now the world will get to know that too!

A big congratulations goes out to Jenn.

2 F.A.I.T.H. girls down.......

4 to go!!