Two New Interviews at 'Pastor Bobby's' Blog

Two separate interviews posted this week at 'Pastor Bobby's' blog, featuring both of my published books. Thanks to 'PB' (as I affectionately call him) for this opportunity. If you haven't had a chance to visit the site, may I direct you there now.

My Mother the Man-Eater interview

And The Beat Goes On interview

Cutting Edge Words

 Today I am thrilled to feature a guest post by friend and writer Marnie Pohlmann. Marnie heads up our local 'Peace Christian Writers' group and this is a devotional she shared last Saturday at the beginning of our mini 'retreat'. I was so impressed, I asked her permission to post it here. I know you will be as inspired as I was.

We have met here to set out on an expedition.  We have our companions for encouragement, some food for sustenance, our supplies, and our swords.  Yes, on today’s journey, when we pick up our pens, or open our laptops, we are unsheathing our swords.

Often in our daily lives we are quite content to just know that our sword is by our side, safe within reach, but only needed if we sense danger.  The trouble with carrying our sword but not wielding it regularly is that eventually it will become rusty and feel heavy in our hand.

To keep our blade shining and our wit sharp we need to take care of our sword, and practice using it.  So we need to polish our words, to learn our craft, and to exercise our skill. 

That is why we have gathered for today’s adventure.  We will stand strong together and go to battle; we will strike paper with pen and see the ink flow.  With our swords we will slay dragons in a fairytale, or shave years away to reveal a memory, or whittle away until we have researched the truth amid the brambles.

As much as our time will be filled with laughter and fun, as Christian writers – whether or not we plan today to write a Christian message – we also need to prepare our hearts and minds for the quest.  There will be times when the trail won’t be easy, or we may be distracted, so let’s begin by putting on the Armour of God so we will be prepared to conquer our goals for today.
Ephesians 6: 10 - 18 says:
Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
Hebrews 4:12 also describes God's Word as a sword:
For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.



God’s Word is a sword, a mighty weapon.  Our words can also be powerful, so today let’s practice using them so we can bring glory to God.

Marnie Pohlmann

Peace Christian Writers

March 26, 2011

Stylish Blogger Award

Okay, so this is kind of cool. I like to think that I have a sense of style - at least when it comes to clothing and interior design ... and here if I didn't receive the 'Stylish blogger' award from Nissa at The Lina Lamont Fan Club. Here's how it works. I'm supposed to pick seven other bloggers and give them the award. In turn, you, my reader friends, can pop over to their blogs and let them know they received the award. Also, I'm 'supposed' to list seven random facts about myself. Hm ... how random can I be? Here goes:



1. I think Montreal based band 'Arcade Fire' are ON FIRE. From what I've seen and heard they totally deserve all the awards.
2.  I despise oysters and would rather have my nails pulled out than have to eat one.
3. I actually got something out of the book of Leviticus this time around. Go figure. Maybe I'm finally maturing as a Christian ...
4. Star Trek still rules in my opinion. Just sayin'
5. I genuinely love my two sons-in-law and they have my permission to say that I am the best mother-in-law ever. They even said so. :)
6. Green is still my favorite color
7. I refuse to own a pair of old lady 'Mom' jeans. You know what I'm talking about and if you don't then you probably own them yourself.

Now for my seven picks:
1.Hawadaere- Lydia Hibbing is SO creative - from fashion, to food, to crafts - she does it all WITH STYLE! If anyone deserves the 'Stylish Blogger' award, it is definitely her.

2. "It's a Beautiful Life' - Brenda Leyland's blog is truly beautiful. She is constant;y changing the header photography and her picks are always stunning. her blog is full of encouragement, too.

3.  'Breathe Deeply' - this is the blog of poet Cindy Snider Re. Her poems are so deeply profound, you can't help but connect, even if you're not a poetry fan.

4. 'Dark Domain: Realm of Author Teric Darken' - and now for something completely different. Teric has a style all his own! Check it out.

5.  'Making A Splash' - here artist Deborah shares her fun and creative art while reflecting on God's love. Very inspiring and definitely 'stylish'!

6.  'Write Minded' - this is the blog of author Sarah Grace. I follow a lot of great blogs but I just liked the way this one looked! I especially liked the coffee mug and pen at the top! Nice!

7.  'Wordsculptures' - last but certainly not least, Keith Wallis consistently puts together poetry that is truly art. Love it.

And there you have it! Please take some time to visit these exceptional blogs and leave them a comment. (You can tell them I sent you!) Peace.

Fill Your Tank

Amid the rush of edits, rewrites, blogging and promotional activities, today’s writer can sometimes get so caught up in the business of writing that they neglect the real heart of the matter – writing for pleasure. I often find that my time is so full with the afore mentioned tasks, that I miss the thing that brought me to this juncture in the first place. This is why authors must set aside time for writing that has no other outward purpose other than to inspire. Deadlines aside, we must continually connect with that inner muse, otherwise our efforts may come across as mechanical and uninspired.
I liken it to running on an empty tank. Sure, you could probably get out and push your vehicle to the next gas station, but a lot of unnecessary time and effort are expended while doing so. How much easier and smarter to keep that gas tank topped up! When you feel inspired, the journey is effortless; the scenery inspiring, and the final goal a reward.

How can an author keep that proverbial gas tank full? One way is to just allow yourself the luxury of writing. Period. This might seem like a no-brainer, but believe me, it can be tougher than it sounds. The internet is calling, that manuscript needs editing – there is always something (albeit worthy and necessary) that wants my attention. I must make a purposeful effort to ignore my email inbox, turn off the internet, and set aside the WIP for another day.

For those with self discipline, this can take place on any afternoon, day, or week of their choosing. For those that need a little more accountability, why not get together with some writer friends? This is exactly what I did this past Saturday. I gave myself permission to attend an all day writer's ‘retreat’ of sorts, put on by a local writer's group. We met at a central location and started the day with a short devotional followed by some writing exercises. Once our ‘muse’ had been aroused, we went on to look at some practical matters of style and structure. After a short break and some visiting, we got to the part that I was really looking forward to. We relocated to one of our member’s homes and there we just found a nice quiet spot to write.

We had the option to work in solitude, since our host had a large house with lots of nooks, or we could park ourselves in a more communal area. Of course, everyone was free to share, ask for advice, or just stop and chat when needing a break. It was great to have that kind of instant feedback, and was quite inspiring, too. It was the perfect excuse to just have some fun with writing, no strings attached. It got me to thinking. Why don’t we do this more often?

What about you? Have you found a way to reconnect with your passion?

Keys to a Successful Reading Event

I'm still walking on air after a very successful Author Reading and Book Signing event held last night at the Beaverlodge Public Library in Beaverlodge, AB. (Yes, there really is a place called Beaverlodge!) There was a nice sized crowd - small enough to be intimate, but large enough to stroke my ego just a wee bit. :) We started the evening with me sharing a few things about myself, my journey into publication and a brief synopsis of my published work. Then I read from MY MOTHER THE MAN-EATER, and ended the formal part of the session by fielding questions. I must say, the folks from Beaverlodge had some very intelligent and thought provoking questions. Afterward, there were refreshments and a book signing session.

So what makes an event like this a success?  First of all, I would say planning. I really can not take credit for this end of things, since head librarian Shelly Longson and her staff did ALL the work. The space for the reading and question and answer time was well laid out, comfortable and intimate and there was a separate area for signing and refreshments. Beautiful!

Second, there was sufficient advertising before the event. Again, Shelly did most of this, but there was enough 'buzz' on facebook and through local media to bring people out. Without at least a few folks in the audience, a reading can be very awkward indeed! She also arranged for local media to attend the event, which serves as great post event publicity.

Third, (and this is where MY part of the process comes in) I did a little bit of research before hand as to what makes a successful reading. One of the things I discovered was 'too short' is better than 'too long'. The last thing you want to do is bore your audience. I chose the second half of Chapter One to read aloud, which I did after a short set up for the scene.  Even if your audience asks for more, it is probably best to keep it short. Stick to your plan for the reading and don't get sucked into 'one more chapter'.

Introduce yourself, but keep it light. People want to know something about you before you start to read, but keep too many details from overtaking the reading portion. You can always expand on these points later during the question and answer time.

Speaking of questions, its a good idea to think of possible answers to the standard questions before hand. What was your inspiration for this novel? How long did it take you to write it?  Which character do you identify with the most?  Of course, you can't possibly anticipate every question, but anything you can do to prepare is worth while.

Be authentic. I write 'edgy inspirational' fiction. What does this mean exactly? It means that my work has a strong Christian element. People need to know that up front so they don't feel duped - especially in a public setting like the one I was in last night. On the other side of the coin, readers need to know that my work is considered somewhat 'edgy'. My characters are not perfect and they find themselves in real life and sometimes questionable circumstances.  One very good question came from a woman who asked if I would prefer my books be placed in the 'Inspirational' section or the regular stacks. I said 'regular stacks' because I don't want to segregate my writing into this smaller niche. I'm pushing for less of this type of ghettoization, but perhaps this is a topic for another day!

Which brings me to the next point. Humor also goes a long way. I like to keep things light and allow the audience to laugh with me. (Not saying I'm a stand up comic or anything, but just don't take yourself too seriously. Nobody likes a snob!)

Finally, don't apologize. For many of us, we find it difficult to 'blow our own horn' and this whole promotion  business can be very uncomfortable, to say the least. However, keep in mind that the people who come out to see and hear you are genuinely interested in what you have to say. Confidence without arrogance goes a long way. Yes, I am a published author and I am proud of it. I feel that my writing stands up in terms of quality, content and entertainment value, so why be ashamed?

Thanks again to Shelly and the staff of the Beaverlodge Library. If you have never participated in an event like this (either as a presenter or in the audience) may I encourage you to do so. What have been your experiences at this type of promotional event?

Spring Art Show

I currently have an art show of original paintings at our local 'Art Space'. I hesitate to call it a gallery, per se, as it is more of a showcase, than an actual gallery. However, it is the only place in the small community where I live for artists to display their work since the Cappucino bar which used to display and sell local art closed its doors. (Sigh) I have posted most of these paintings separately in previous blog posts.
As well, you can see most of them if you go to the 'Original Art' page, located at the top. I am also currently trying to get a couple of pieces finished to enter in the 'Peace Liard Juried Art Show' coming up in June. Enjoy.

Yesterday's Tomorrow - a review

Gripping, heart wrenching, poignant, fast paced, tender, descriptive … these are all adjectives that aptly describe Catharine West’s debut novel Yesterday’s Tomorrow. It’s the story of Kristin Taylor, a young reporter out to prove herself by going into the field during the Vietnam War. In the midst of the horror and carnage she finds out what it means to be a friend, a lover, a Christian - a human being. This unfortunate era in US history is well researched yet never pedantic. Descriptive passages are wonderfully full and alive yet never get in the way of the story. West has masterfully juxtaposed contrasting elements to create a unique balance that keeps the story vibrant. Raw emotional scenes mix with quiet reflective moments. Passion spills over while the reality of everyday life goes on. The blood and carnage of senseless killing comes alongside the message of hope. I was hooked after Chapter One. I couldn’t put it down by Chapter Four. What at first seemed slightly cliché (girl meets arrogant hunk and falls in love despite herself) turned into a complex journey that was anything but typical. I found myself reliving many of the scenes in my mind after turning the final page – the mark, in my mind, of a book worth reading. Yesterday’s Tomorrow receives a five star rating in my mind.

A New Creature

Today, March 21, marks my twenty-ninth anniversary as a 'new creature'. It's hard to believe it has been that many years since I gave my life to Christ. Sometimes I still feel so immature. Yet, in many ways I also know that I have grown up. I guess it just goes to show that not one of us will ever 'arrive' at that perfect state until we reach heaven. In the mean time, even falling flat on your face is still moving forward, as someone once said.
I always liked the fact that my 'new birth' coincided with the first day of spring. It truly was and is a day of new beginnings.
On another note, I did a book signing at 'Kurios Books' over the weekend in Fort St. John. Thank you to Corwyn, owner operator of this 'haven' of good books, Christian gifts, and great specialty coffee and other bistro fare. Click on the link and check out their website. Here are a couple of pics.







Finally, I had a few technical difficulties earlier in the month and so I would like to direct you to my 'Inscribe' post today, which was supposed to be up on March 15, but instead is going up today.

A Midterm Eve's Phantasm

My original play called 'A Midterm Eve's Phantasm' opened last week on March 9 to a packed house and great reviews. In all we did four shows which were all very well received. Working with youth is so rewarding and I truly believe that a drama program like the one I run can change lives. There is nothing better for building self confidence, a sense of team work, cooperative skills, problem solving and an overall sense of accomplishment - not to mention the adrenaline rush of the live performance! No wonder I'm such a junkie for amateur theatre!

The play is based on Shakespeare's classic 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' but is set in a modern high school. Mia's father doesn't like her boyfriend - the new kid with a bad past. After he threatens to make her move in with her aunt to attend a private girl's school, Mia and Lyle decide to run away - but not before the school's jock, Denny, hears about it, thanks to Mia's friend Helen. If you are familiar with Shakespeare's classic, you know what happens next. Through the antics of the mischievous elf Puck, both Lyle and Denny fall in love with Helen while Oberon, king of the elves, is also bent on teaching his fairy queen wife a lesson. She falls in love with a donkey and all is chaos until we come to the final scene where everything is put to rights. Click on the link for a feature published in the local paper.

Here are a few pictures.

 Puck and her raver cohorts

Lyle and Denny about to fight for Helen

Titania and her fairies sleep while puck watches

The couples get it right

The fairies and Nick as an 'Ass'

Some silly actors from the 'play within a play'

"I'll pay you to keep my confidence"

backstage pandemonium

Most of 'my kids' - 34 in all! Gotta love 'em!

Let's Have Some Fun!

I have just added a new element to my blog with the addition of a 'Fun Stuff' page.  You can go there to play two new 'hangman' games inspired by my novels. I have also added them at the bottom of this home page, just in case they are hard to 'view' on your computer in that particular format. Or, why not hop over to the 'Freado Bookbuzzr' sight and play them online? You can win free books and have some fun, too!  Here are the links:

'Evolutionary Conspiracy or Creationist Hoax?" (based on And The Beat Goes On)

http://www.freado.com/hangman/96/evolutionary-conspiracy-or-creationist-hoax

'Hunting Never looked so Good!' (based on My Mother the Man-Eater)

http://www.freado.com/hangman/97/hunting-never-looked-so-good

New Interview at 'A Pen for Your Thoughts'

Please check out this interview with Shirley Connelly at 'A Pen for Your Thoughts'. Shirley asked some very unique (and insightful) questions that you won't want to miss! In fact, the title for the post is: 'Edgy, Brow Lifting, and Maybe with a Twist of Authenticity - hold the sugar please!" I love it!

(AND - we use the same background. :) How about that?!)

 And while I'm at it, may I wish you ALL a happy St. Patrick's Day!

MY FRIEND JESUS - a review

MY FRIEND JESUS is the story of one man's unusual encounter with 'Jesus' in the flesh. It is classed as fiction, but because of the allegorical nature of the story, it almost comes off more like a devotional book, with a lot of scripture references and lots of 'teachable moments' that are meant to explain the basic tenents of the Christian faith. Mr. Lombardo's writing style is quite beautiful - very elegant and eloquent, which is something that I appreciated about the book. However, the story line itself sometimes dragged for me. Don't get me wrong. I'm not saying I didn't like it, since I certainly see the merit in the book if a peaceful, lulling allegory is what you are after. When reading fiction for pleasure, however, I prefer a gripping story with more action and intrigue. This is not a book that I was able to read in one sitting. It was better taken in small portions, where I could then ponder the 'lesson', so to speak. For those reasons, I have given the book three stars. MY FRIEND JESUS might be just the book for you if you want a thought provoking, pastoral view of Christianity.

Cathy West and 'Yesterday's Tomorrow'

Yesterday's Tomorrow. As an English teacher I really like this oxymoron and it's even more intriguing as a title. I'm looking forward to reading this book and have it in my 'queue' of books to read. Perhaps I'll get through the ever growing list over spring break! In any case, Cathy is launching the book today. Why not help make the launch a success by buying the book? For more information, go to Cathy's website -

http://www.catherinejwest.com/books
Or check out the youtube Book Trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVQUMRlYhkM

Here is Cathy's bio:

Educated in Bermuda, England and Canada, Catherine holds a degree in English from the University of Toronto. When she’s not at the computer working on her next story, you can find her taking her Border Collie for long walks or tending to her roses and orchids. Catherine and her husband live on the beautiful island of Bermuda, with their two college-aged children. Catherine is a member of Romance Writers of America, and American Christian Fiction Writers, and is a founding member of International Christian Fiction Writers. Catherine’s debut novel Yesterday’s Tomorrow, releases March 15th, through

OakTara Publishers.

Website: http://www.catherinejwest.com

OakTara Website: http://www.oaktara.com

Blog: http://www.catherinewestblog.blogspot.com



Creative As God is Creative

I love the arts. I am an artist, a theatre director, a musician, and of course, a writer. Sometimes it's hard for me to choose between all of these creative pursuits because I love each and every one. But there is one thing I do know - GOD IS THE AUTHOR OF CREATION! And in saying that, I believe that God, the divine and ultimate creative force, loves to see His children emulate Him in creative ways. The fact that many of the artistic disciplines have taken a less than godly turn does not mean that they are inherently evil! Oh contrare! It is up to those of us involved in the arts to take them back for God. For what better way is there to point to the divine than through the arts?

Most people can accept serene meadows or majestic mountains on canvas. Maybe they can even stretch themselves to include some abstract art if they can make some kind of emotional connection. The fact that art, as a form of communication, should and MUST encompass all aspects of the human condition seems to be lost on many well meaning folks, however. I’m talking about all artistic disciplines here – even the dramatic arts, which are often shunned unless it’s an Easter Passion Play, the nativity, or a short evangelistic skit. Unfortunately, it is often our own 'family' - fellow believers - that want to squelch our divinely given creative drive if it doesn't fit neatly into a church appropriate box. This has caught me off guard, even in today’s post-modern move away from playing church.

Being a Christian should not be a compartmentalized experience. We are to live out our faith in every aspect of our lives, from the time we wake until we lay our heads down again at night and this includes expressing ourselves artistically through whatever medium God has called us to. The world needs artists. We are to be the salt and the light to a dying generation and if we're cowering away in the bubbles of our own making, that is pretty hard to do. Christian artists - of all disciplines - must rise up to take their place in the body of Christ.

I am happy to say that I do see a shift. Many churches invite artists to ‘worship’ on canvas during the service, I’ve been delighted by a greater use of drama in the church beyond the usual object lesson, and I’ve even been in a couple of churches where dancers were part of the worship team. It’s a step in the right direction. When we look into God’s word, we see that he employed all the arts in the establishment of the tabernacle and later in the temple. God, as the ultimate creative force, has hardwired us ‘in His image’. It is up to us to encourage and foster our creative minds in ways that are glorifying to Him.

This article was originally published at 'The Odd Duck Society' and is scheduled to appear as my regular monthly post on 'Inscribe Writers Online'.

'The Road To Deer Run' Book Launch

Another book launch courtesy of the John 3:16 Marketing network. Today, Elaine Cooper is promoting her book 'The Road To Deer Run'. This historical novel was actually one of two Honorable Mention recipients in the Los Angeles Book Festival in the Romance category. I have read the first four chapters myself and can see why. It has captured my interest and I plan to read the entire book very soon. (After I buy the book TODAY, to help Elaine with her launch!) You'll want to check it out!

About “The Road to Deer Run”

The year is 1777 and the colonies of America are at war with England. In the midst of this fierce and painful conflict, two enemies—a wounded British soldier and a colonial farmwoman—are brought together through circumstances that challenge their fortitude, their faith and their ability to forgive. In the struggle comes healing and love. But as their destinies become intertwined, so do the forces that oppose them.

Received Honorable Mention in the Romance category at the 2011 Los Angeles Book Festival for titles published in 2010.
Winner of "Best Romantic Excerpt" in the Clash of the Titles contest, Feb 2011.




What Are Reviewers Saying about “The Road to Deer Run”?

“A heartwarming love story, sensitively written and a well-researched bit of American history. The book has a solid faith-based perspective that sets it apart.”
— Jean LemMom, former Editor, Better Homes & Gardens Magazine

“A captivating tale of love, honor, redemption, and patriotism….Cooper breathes life into her characters and their world in an entertaining way with generous details and facts.”
— Wanda Ventling, Editor in Chief, Life: Beautiful Magazine

“With subplots as appealing as the main story, the book is well researched, well written, and well worth the purchase price. Ready for the sequel.”
— Kirkus Discoveries Reviews


“The Road to Deer Run” is available at:
Amazon.com

Author Biography

Elaine Marie Cooper grew up in Massachusetts but now lives in the Midwest with her husband Steve, her three dogs and one huge cat. She has two married sons and triplet grandbabies, who are often referred to (by her) as “the most beautiful grandbabies in the world.” Elaine’s only daughter Bethany passed away in 2003 from a brain tumor.
A retired registered nurse, Elaine has been a magazine freelance writer for many years, and is a regular contributor to a blog on the Midwest called The Barn Door (www.thebarndoor.net) and a blog on Christian living called Reflections In Hindsight (ReflectionsInHindsight.wordpress.com) She is also the author of her debut novel called “The Road to Deer Run” and is currently writing the sequel.


Elaine Cooper can be reached on FaceBook http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000997223171


or visit her website at:

DeerRunBooks.com

Thoughts On Women's Day

As you may know, tomorrow is 'International Women's Day'. In my community, I had the fun and privilege of participating in an all day Women's Day event held on Saturday to honor the occasion. I took in various workshops including 'Flower Arranging' and "Beginner's Belly Dancing' and also had the opportunity to share as a presenter.

My friend Rose and I did a workshop called 'Laughter is the Best Medicine' (okay, Rose did most of the work!) where she talked about the benefits of laughter and 'lightening up' while I helped her with some Improv scenarios. In the afternoon, I held a workshop entitled 'So You Want To Write A Book'. In it I discussed my personal journey to publication as well as outlined some of the avenues open to people who wish to pursue writing a book. The finale for the day was a super-fun fashion show from the past. Overall, it was a great success. Hats off to all those who put the event together.

So why bother setting aside a special day to celebrate Womanhood? One would hope that the need for 'feminism' in the militant sense of the word is long gone. We know we are equal to men in terms of our citizenship and civil liberties. Isn't it time to just give it up already?

I don't think so. There are many women who still suffer under tyrannical conditions (and I'm not just talking about foreign dictatorships here) or who feel they don't measure up. There are lots of women out there who need encouragement, support and just some plain old 'pampering'. Women's roles have expanded to such a degree that a little 'me time' is long past due for many.

I also think it is wonderful for women to get together and celebrate our uniqueness. Nobody is claiming that there are no difference between the sexes. I think that notion has finally gone to rest along with a lot of other misconceptions from the early days of the feminist movement. We are different than men, but that doesn't mean we are LESS. God in His wisdom made us different for a reason and setting aside a day to highlight that fact only brings us all closer together.

Women truly are remarkable, when it comes right down to it! Celebrate and honor the women in your life today!

Swirling

Swirling . . . not only is this the topic for the CW Blog Chain's March posts, but its the way I feel right about now. I am literally 'swirling' in a whirlpool of activity that is, at its best, like a breathtaking theme park ride. You're left exhilerated but just a bit disoriented when you try to step off. At other times its more akin to some raging rapids - again, thrilling, but if you're not careful you could get sucked under and carried away.

I'm sure we all have felt this way at times. Life in the twenty first century is hectic. All the time saving technology that futuristic dreamers of the past thought would give humanity more free time has just added to the demands of an already full life. But would I trade it for a subsistence existence? Not likely. Life may have been simpler 'back in the day', but I for one like my modern conveniences, thank you very much.

Perhaps we're mistaken when we put the blame on modern society with all its technological advances. After all, we still make the choices that govern how we spend our time. Each one of us has the power to say 'No'. Nobody is forcing me to pursue a writing career while working full time. Nobody is forcing me to put in countless hours directing and mentoring my amateur youth theatre group. Nobody is forcing me to take an active roll in the local arts council. Nobody is forcing me to do any of the things that fill my days to the brim and then some. These are all choices that I have made with my eyes wide open, because, when it comes right down to it, I couldn't imagine my life without writing ... without the arts ... without 'MY' drama kids. These are the things that make my life 'full' in the true sense of the word.

And so I will carry on - carnival junkie or daredevil adventurer - you pick the metaphor. I'll continue to twirl my way through, ever spinning from one passion to the next. Case in point: After the book launch of MY MOTHER THE MAN-EATER (where I reached best seller status on amazon.ca, no less!) I'm now preparing for the debut performance of an original play. Opening night is in 5 days. After that I've got a book signing, a guest speaking appearance and a reading. All in a day ...

How about you? How are your days swirling by?
For more in the "Chain' check the side bar -

DRIVEN

As I'm sure you've heard (how could you not?!) I had a very successful book launch for MY MOTHER THE MAN-EATER last week. One of the great free gifts that I was giving away was a sample from Shellie Neumeier's book DRIVEN.  Now what kind of a friend would I be if I didn't do the same for her? Shellie is hosting a launch TODAY and you can find out all about it here:

Join the fun and purchase your copy of DRIVEN from AMAZON.COM and receive bonus gifts from the author and her generous supporters. (Offer good 3/1/11 only.) For more information: http://bit.ly/azCgha

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Robyn loves her friends, enjoys her youth group, and looks forward to meeting cute Caleb Montague. But when a caustic news reporter challenges her school’s prayer team, Robyn must choose: defend their right to meet on campus and pray for whomever they wish or back down at the principal’s request.
Now she must learn what God wants her to do. And she had better learn fast, because there’s a supernatural enemy in town whose sole mission is to stop her—no matter the cost.

FREE E-GIFTS FROM THE AUTHOR—

• Purchase Driven TODAY and receive a personalized, signed book plate mailed directly to you plus. . .
• Free signed bookmarks to share with your friends

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT Driven

Driven is a new take on the age old battle of good versus evil.  Gripping from the first page, this is one book you won't want to put down.

--Leanna Kay, co-creator of www.samiesisters.com - a place for Christian girls to grow in faith.

Driven is a breathtaking book of tension, intrigue, and heartwarming emotion. From the moment I began to read until the very last word, I couldn't put it aside. It held me enthralled!

--Lindsay Below, author of Head Over Hand-Bought Heels

                                                               

Oily creatures of the night are seeking to destroy a group of teens at Brookfield Central High School. Their primary target? A resilient teenage girl who refuses to question her calling. But how much guilt, how much pain, and how much accusation can one human take? Laced with other-worldly plot threads akin to Frank Peretti’s This Present Darkness, Shellie Neumeier’s debut novel inspires followers of Christ to stand strong in God’s calling regardless of tragic circumstances. Along the way she explores tragedy in friendships and the beauty of redemption.

--Caleb Jennings Breakey, Refining Teen Writers into Rockstars www.CalebBreakey.com

In the tradition of This Present Darkness and The Screwtape Letters, Driven pulls back the veil between worlds and reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against Satan and his minions. But the journey of Robyn and her friends against both physical and spiritual enemies also illustrates the more exciting truth: that ultimate victory rests with our God.

--Anne Mateer, author of Wings of Dream, September 2011.

Short professional bio

Married for almost 20 years, Shellie and her husband have four wonderful children and two goofy greyhounds.   After receiving her undergraduate degree in Secondary Education from the University of Wisconsin—Madison, she went on to acquire an early childhood education certificate.  Shellie also served in youth, children’s, special needs and family ministries for over twenty-two years.  

Today she enjoys teaching her teens how to drive and chauffeuring her preteens across the Wisconsin countryside. And once in a while, she enjoys reading a classic tale or new suspense. In addition to writing fiction, Shellie is an avid blogger on her site http://shellieneumeier.com and several others including http://Samiesisters.com, http://www.suite101.com/profile.cfm/767774.com, and http://thebarndoor.net.

Contact information

Website: www.shellieneumeier.com

E-mail:  neumeier(dot)shellie(at)gmail(dot)com