Tag Archives: authors

Joyfully Working with Write His Answer

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It’s that time of year. The time when many activities are ending for the summer with special activities. And, for me, multiple writing activities.

I spent last Friday and Saturday at the Write In The Springs conference hosted by the Colorado Springs American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) group. It was held at Glen Eyrie. I came home excited about what I wanted to do to improve the book I am working on.

I am on staff for the Write His Answer Conference on May 11-14.

I also lead a Write His Answer Bible Study every week. Members of this study are asking questions about the conference, and this week I’m answering some of these questions.

“I’m just a beginner and don’t even have a book written. Why should I attend?”

There is a lot more involved in writing a book than most people, especially beginners, know. This conference has dozens of instructors ready to share their knowledge and love of writing — regardless of your writing level.

“I’m an experienced and published author. Why should I attend?”

If you are experienced, you know we have to keep learning to stay on top of the publishing world.

“I don’t want to attend a virtual conference and just watch people talking. I like the personal contact and interaction at in-person conferences.”

Liz is one of my favorite authors. I’m looking forward to hearing what she has to say.
Glen Eyrie is where I attended the Write in the Springs Conference. It’s a wonderful place to rest and write.
I’ve heard Tim speak many times. He has not only great information but lots of surprises.

I agree. Nothing can beat the hugs of being able to sit and talk to the faculty and new and old friends. There are a lot of reasons this conference had to be virtual, but it will not be people just standing and talking. All the classes will be live and interactive.

“I want to come to the conference, but I can’t get off work.”

We can help with that. If you registered for the conference, you will have access to the recordings for three months. You will miss some of the interaction, but you will be able to get the information.

I’m looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible as I watch the screens and see you.

For more information about the Write His Answer Conference, go to https://colorado.writehisanswer.com/

Getting ready to learn

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For a few weeks, I’m going to put off writing about items to purchase in Israel on the fourth Friday of the month. Not only are there a limited number of items to write about, but there is something more immediate in my life.

I’m getting ready for the Colorado Christian Writers Conference May 11-14, 2022.

We usually meet at Estes Park, Colorado YMCA. However, this year will be virtual. I know you might be saying “I want people, not computers.” And normally I would agree with you, but I’ve seen the line-up and the plans and am very excited.

First, the conference will be 100% live. No prerecorded material.

At an in-person conference, there are too many things and classes going on at the same time, so we’re bound to miss something. With CCWC’s virtual conference I’ll still miss some simultaneous presentations, but they are being recorded and I’ll have three months to watch the presentations which I can’t watch during the conference.

I have to admit, I don’t pay to attend CCWC in money. I pay in labor as a member of the staff. But if I did pay to attend CCWC, this would be at the top of the list. The cost is $199 if you register by March 15th. No travel costs. No cost for room and board.

Plus I don’t have to wonder what kind of food will be served.

I’ve included pictures of two of my favorite authors/speakers.

This is where you’ll find more information.

https://colorado.writehisanswer.com/

She will make you laugh and brighten your day.
It is exciting to look forward to his presentations. No one ever knows what the props will be.

A Busy Week of Writing

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November month is NaNoWriMo – National Novel Writing Month. It is a worldwide challenge to write a 50,000-word novel during November.
The concept is to put the story running around in your head on paper (or computer) without editing or judging that story.


I am feeling proud of myself since, as of this morning, I have written 34,628 words. In December, I can start editing the story. With the working title of Healing Shards, my story is the sequel to my novel Shattered Trust and continues the story of Logan and Margaret.


But participating in NaNoWriMo is not stoping the process of working on my Jesus Gets Hand-Me-Downs children’s book series. The editing continues. The plan is still to have at least the first two books available before Easter.
To all my writing friends – Happy Writing.

No Editing During NaNoWriMo

Why Conference?

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One of the most common questions I’m asked by new authors is “Why should I go to writing conferences?”

Their reasons for thinking conferences are not something they want to do are many. The most common reasons are:

  • They are too expensive.
  • I’m just a beginner. I’m going to feel foolish with all those published authors.
  • I’m just a beginner. I could never talk to a publisher or agent.
  • I wouldn’t know what to do or say.
  • I don’t have anything ready to show an editor or publisher.
  • I’ll feel out of place and be alone because I don’t know anyone.

If you are a just starting your writing journey, here are some answers to those comments.

Too expensive. Yes, some conferences are very expensive, but others aren’t. Not only is the conference itself have a cost, but there is also the cost of travel, possibly housing, possibly childcare, and other incidental costs to be prepared. So, let’s look at options. One-day conferences are less expensive than those lasting multiple days. If you need to start with something small, do so. Conferences close to home have less additional costs. Talk to other writers, check writing websites, or go on google and find out what is in your area. Some conferences have full or partial scholarships or reduced tuition if you are willing to help at the conference. Working can be a plus for new writers. It helps to get acquainted with writers and those involved in the publishing industry in your area. Get creative. If you really want to go, talk to the conference organizers. Tell them about your desire. They might know of a way you can come for less money.

Foolish talking to published authors. I won’t deny there are some rude, narcissistic authors, but they are not the norm. Most authors are excited about the craft of writing and enjoy helping newbies. Most will find time to talk to you and encourage you on your writing journey.

Could not talk to a publisher or agent. Think about it. If there aren’t any writers, the publishers and agents don’t have jobs. They can’t depend on their current best-selling authors to be around forever. They are always looking for next new sensation to become a best-selling author. They are real people who are in the business because they like working with people. Believe me, publishers and agents are not scary monsters. Go in prepared with the right attitude and they are fun people to talk to.

Don’t know what to do. Yes, conferences can be confusing with all the activity. But the organizers know how hard it can be for first time attendees. Everyone on the staff has badges or shirts that clearly identify them. They can and do help attendees find their way around and figure out where to go and what to do. They will frequently help figure out who the new author needs to talk to. And it’s not just the conference staff. Frequently others who’ve been at that conference before will see someone looking bewildered, stop, and offer help.

Nothing to show. It is always good to have a manuscript or at least an article. But if you don’t, you can talk about your plans. Ask for suggestions. How can you make the idea the best it can be? Is your idea overworked? If so, how can you make it unique? There is so much you can learn, having something to show is not a requirement. The contacts and networking can be of incredible value down the road on your writing journey.

Out of place and alone. If you look statistics, most writers are introverts. That doesn’t mean we don’t like people. We just prefer them in small groups and need quiet time to recharge our batteries. I won’t deny that makes conferences difficult for introverts. I can attest to this because I power my way through the noise, crowds, and constant activity of 3-4-day conferences. Then I turn off the phone and hide for about a week to recover. The important thing to remember is you are not alone. Those other introverts at the conference are also looking for someone with whom to connect. Everyone at a writing conference reacts positively to the question “So, what do you write?” It starts the conversation in a safe place and allows us to connect on common ground. It allows to have the very small group discussion we enjoy and feel welcome in. Don’t tell the conference leaders this, but I also recommend sometimes sneaking out for an hour and find a place to be alone and get a little rest. And before I get attacked by some of my friends, yes, I know there are some writers who are extroverts and love all the activity of a conference.

I’m sure you’ve noticed I haven’t said much about classes at the conference. When writers consider going to a conference, it’s easy to look at the class offerings and determine if there are classes about the writing areas we need or want. I’ve rarely been asked the why go to a conference question concerning the classes. The only time I’m asked that was regarding a specific conference, such as which of these two conferences has the best classes for me considering where I am as an author.

Find a conference, go, learn, and enjoy the time with other writers

Colorado Christian Writers Conference

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From May 16th to May 19th I’ll be at the Colorado Christian Writers Conference (CCWC) held at YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park Center, Colorado. We meet in the Ruesch Auditorium.

When I finished this blog, I discovered I talk too much. If you know about this conference and don’t want to read what I’ve said, you can get information about the conference by clicking here.

This is my favorite writers conference of the year for several reasons. As a Colorado native, I can’t help mentioning it is in the beautiful area of Rocky Mountain National Park. If you can come a day early or stay a day late, it is worth your time to visit the park. Note: A Sunday tour of the park is an add-on to the conference if you’re interested. Okay, now that I’ve shown my state pride and prejudice, let’s move on.

So, what makes this conference great? I divide the answer into three categories – faculty, classes, and atmosphere.

The Faculty

This is an interesting bunch. Some, despite the casual dress code, are perfectly color-coordinated with stylish clothes. But don’t be startled by the tall man in torn jeans, black t-shirt, and a black stocking cap. He’s not a scary as he looks and he gives wonderful hugs. If you work with youth, talk to him because he has a special youth groups you’ll want to hear about. The lady sitting on the stairs, giggling – the one with the frizzy hair, she really won’t trip you when you step past her, but she is an awesome editor with great advice. It really is okay to tease the guy running around the mountain in shorts even though it might be snowing. Everyone else teases him and are thankful he’s there to help keep things running smoothly. Don’t worry when you hear people talking about the little old lady who is looney. She’ll keep you laughing while she motivates you to climb higher with your writing and in your life. You never know what the guy with the machete or the skeleton might do, but he enlightens your mind with unique knowledge of God’s Word. And under no circumstances should you feel like you are the only one who gets confused or has difficulty keeping up when the director switches between talking to you and to the Father. Listen closely to those prayers to discover a beautiful relationship with God.

Despite all the quirks, this faculty has warm and loving hearts combined with an incredible amount of knowledge. They will teach you in the classrooms, answer your questions in the hallways and at meals, and encourage you every chance they get. They will do all they can to find time for you. If they can’t provide what you need, they will point you to someone who might be able to help. Most will pray with you and for you.

During one-on-one appointments they will talk about your work. Talk about the possibilities for publication. Make suggestions. Encourage. They will also help you relax. If you are new to pitching your writing it can be intimidating to talk to an editor, publisher, or agent. However, you’ll find them to be easy to like people who want to help you.

The Classes

Are you writing fiction or non-fiction? Need help with the craft of writing? Struggling with the world of publishing? Can’t figure out how to market your book? Or maybe the world of a writer is weighing on you? Not sure how to get your message across? Are you a teen wanting to connect with other teen writers? No matter which your question is – There’s a class for that.

A wide variety of workshops and continuing sessions are available to meet the needs of writers no matter the experience level. One aspect of this conference I find refreshing is no lock-in. I’ve gone to conferences where if I signed up for a class, I was committed to that class and had to stay in it. Not at CCWC. If a workshop doesn’t meet your needs, you can slip out. If you realize during the first session that a continuing session will not meet your needs, you don’t have to continue. Go to something else. There is freedom. More than once, this freedom has allowed me to be in just the right place for a divine appointment.

The Atmosphere

This is what I enjoy most about CCWC. It’s a conference designed to meet the needs of the participants when they are there. Most of us arrive with a list of classes we want to attend and editors/publishers/agents we want to talk to. We have high goals and expectations of the success we will have. The truth is our plans and God’s plans frequently not the same.

Several times, when I got to the conference, I’ve discovered I didn’t get appointments with the person I wanted. Every time, if I remembered to have an attitude of “it will work out” the person with whom I did talk helped me in ways I didn’t expect, but lead me along the path God created for me.

As I said above, there is freedom at this conference. I’ve discovered although I thought this was the class I needed, but “accidently” walked into that one and it was perfect for the questions I had. Other times, I missed a planned class entirely because I’ve gotten into a discussion with another member of the faculty or a conferee. Sometimes these divine appointments have blessed me because this person is the one I needed to help me. In reverse, these divine appointments have blessed me because I was able to help the other person.

In addition to being a conference, this is a time of retreat. There are places around Ruesch Auditorium and on the YMCA grounds where conferees and faculty can quiet themselves and their hearts in a time of communication with God. It is a place where two or three can slip away and pray together. The morning worship starts every day with the right attitude.

This conference is built on the belief if the teaching and the worship is provided, God will provide the divine appointments and bless those who come.

Now that I’ve talked longer than I should, if you’d like more information about CCWC, please click here.