Latest Blog Posts

Owning Your Talent by Guest Blogger Marilyn Shipe

10
By Vonda Skelton | August 31, 2010

Do you know what today is? Yep–it's the fifth Tuesday, and that means it's guest blogger day! I'm thrilled to introduce my friend, Marilyn Shipe. Marilyn is an aspiring magazine freelance writer. She's a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and the CBI Clubhouse. She enjoys attending writers conferences and is currently working on an historical novel, a young adult mystery novel, and enjoys writing poetry. Marilyn is editor of three monthly newsletters. She also enjoys knitting, cooking, scrapbooking, and reading. Be sure to check out Marilyn's daily blog.

Welcome, Marilyn. Thank you for sharing your thoughts today!

Owning Your Talent by Marilyn Shipe

Aarti Sequeira is or was a food blogger.

I'm not sure she has much time right now for blogging since she recently won the coveted title of the Next Food Network Star on Sunday, August 15th. I watched her debut show the following week, and she did a fantastic job. Her rise to stardom and dream job began with blogging which is nothing more than another word for writing.

I never even heard of Aarti before I began watching the Next Food Network Star show, but I suppose our paths were destined to cross since she has become an inspiration to me and it all began with writing. I'm sure she had no aspirations of becoming a cooking show host when she penned her first comments on food. Her blog opened a door of opportunity of immense proportion for her.

The show pits twelve contestants against each other through various challenges and competitions I'm sure might even make Paula Deen cry Uncle. At various times, Aarti expressed hesitation and a lack of self-confidence in winning. Her cooking skills of her beloved Indian cuisine were repeatedly applauded by the show judges. But her camera comments strongly revealed she wasn't owning her talent as a chef or her ability to host her own show.

I've only been writing seriously for sixteen months, and I am truly in my writing apprenticeship time. Thankfully, I've had several articles published which proves there are people out there who will publish someone who doesn't have a lot of skill. I'm grateful for those people.

Even though I adore being a writer and all of the excitement and fun that accompanies the craft, I struggle with a lack of confidence. Perhaps this is due to my inexperience. I am aware of the fact that when I write something, I do believe God can and does work through me, but I'm also aware that it's my name on the piece I've created.

In the parable of the talents in the New Testament, the unprofitable servant was given one talent which he buried because he was afraid of the responsibility to produce anything from that talent. When I pondered this, I began to realize this is my problem as well. I have three friends who, whenever I'm around them, constantly tell others I am a writer. I began to wonder why I am embarrassed at their expressions of happiness and joy over my becoming a writer. I believe it is because I am fearful of owning whatever writing talent God may have given me. I play it safe by denying I'm a writer. But doing this is risky business. It's not that I'm afraid of rejection, but failure. It takes courage and faith in God to be a writer. Not only are there opportunities to succeed, but to fail as well.

One of my favorite quotes from Aarti Sequeira, after her "Ah-ha" moment on the show, was when she said, "Through these trials, I have discovered I deserve to be here, I have something to offer, and I know I can do this." Last year, I believe God called me to be a writer. Today, after much soul-searching, I can confirm what Aarti said, "I, too, deserve to be a writer. I know I have something to offer others who may be struggling with life issues, and I know, by God's grace, I can do this." My prayer for tomorrow is to fully use and own any God-given writing talent for His honor and glory.

What a great reminder, Marilyn. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us!

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goalsistockOnly One More Week to Reach Our Goals! Will You Win A Prize?

How are you doing on reaching your September 7 goal? I'm finally making progress and am confident I'm going to do it! Don't give up!

And as an extra incentive, I'm going to have a special gift for one Goal-Reacher. Will it be you? Be sure to check back next week for details.

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Who's the Winner of Jan Coates' Book?

"Simply" Sue Falcone! Congratulations, Sue! All you have to do is contact me with your mailing address and your autographed copy of Set Free will be on its way to you!

And to those who didn't win, be sure to check out Jan's website, where you can get your own copy.

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The End is Near!

The end of the Buy-One-Get-One-Half-Price Sale, that is. Today, August 31, is the last day to purchase one downloadable writing class or book and get another item of your choice for half price. Quick–check out the details before it's too late! 

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It's Not Too Late to Plan for the North Texas Christian Writers Conference!

I'm looking forward to being back at the North Texas Christian Writers Conference September 17-18 in the Dallas area. I'll be teaching four classes:

  • Five Fatal Flaws of Fiction
  • Teaching Children Biblical Truth through Secular Fiction
  • The Non-Fiction Book: Concept to Contract
  • Plays and Sketches: Biblical Truth from the Stage

I'll also be presenting a keynote, New Writer Bloopers–a hilarious look at some of my early mistakes as a new writer. It'll entertain and encourage you!

I'd love to see you there!

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Today's guest blogger, Marilyn Shipe, challenged us to accept our giftings and use our ta
lents for the Lord's glory. Paul encouraged us to do that same 2000 years ago with these words:

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

Accept the challenge. Be what God created you to be.

I pray God's blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts,

Vonda

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Interview and Book Give-Away with Author/Speaker Jan Coates

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By Vonda Skelton | August 24, 2010

Happy Tuesday to you! Today I'm thrilled to introduce my friend, Jan Coates. God uses Jan as a Difference-Maker within His Kingdom to help others experience a new perspective filled with positive change from the inside out.

A non-denominational Christian, Jan has served in ministry for more than 25 years. She is a savvy, highly-respected sales/marketing/motivational professional with more than 20 years Fortune 500 experience as well as a Christian speaker and author.

That is a remarkable bio, but it's not the part that I feel makes Jan so special. Unlike some motivational encouragers, Jan's family of origin was not filled with stability, love or nurturing. In fact, her testimony alone is enough to take your breath away:

  • Raised by a mentally ill mom.
  • Endured a childhood filled with unthinkable abuse.
  • Married at age 17-a divorced mom at 19.
  • Experienced the death of her only biological child to a drunk driver.
  • Battled depression.
  • Faced life-threatening cancer.

After all that, you'd think she would have nothing to give . . . no hope to share. But Jan is just the opposite.

God mended her and then transformed her pain into positive passion so He could use her to help transform others. She's a "good as new" vessel, pouring out the love God continually pours into her. And she couldn't be happier!

Jan loves what she does: writing and speaking–encouraging, motivating, and equipping others. Her refreshing writing/speaking ministry has changed thousands of lives. She's a frequent guest on national radio and television broadcasts, including Campus Crusade for Christ, Faith Broadcasting, Hope for Today, The Harvest Show, Family Net TV/At Home, Total Living Network, Moody's Midday Connection, and many others.

Her book Set Free is endorsed by Steve Arterburn, Neil Anderson, Chuck Smith, Jr., as well as The Salvation Army. She also has a Set Free small group program and Set Free Today e-zine. Jan is a contributing writer to several anthologies and her articles have appeared in Crosswalk.com, CBN.com, Significant Living, Together, Women Alive! Faith and Friends, Christian Women Today, and many other Christian magazines and e-zines.

Jan and her family reside in College Station, Texas. I hope you'll check out her website, And she'd be happy to hear from you at

Would you like to win a copy of Jan's book? Don't forget to leave a comment on this interview and you'll be in the drawing. Be sure to check back next week to see if you're the winner!

Welcome to The Christian Writer's Den, Jan. Set Free is written from your perspective as a childhood abuse victim. How emotionally difficult was it to write this book?

During the Set Free five-year writing season, I frequently argued with God. "I really don't want to do this, God," I pleaded. "Can't you give me something easy to write?" The temptation to trash this project and forget what God had called me to do entered my mind more than once. At times, the daily pain of reliving the agony of my past, as well as bearing the indescribable pain of the other survivors in this book, shrouded me like a dark cloud. However, we all must get through the valley of facing truth in order to gain entrance to the doors of freedom. I've discovered the truth about writing for God: Set Free is not about me. It is not about the survivors. Set Free is about reaching one more woman broken by the abuses of her past and sharing God's healing power. 

There are some shocking statistics in the book about abuse and how widespread it is. Please share some of the statistics to help us see the impact of abuse.

Here are just a few of the childhood abuse statistics:

  • One in three women sitting on the pews of our churches has experienced some form of childhood abuse.
  • Every two minutes a child is sexually assaulted.
  • 80% of substance (alcohol, prescription and illegal drugs) abusers were abused as children.
  • 93% of female prison inmates were abused as children.

Who will benefit by reading Set Free?

Set Free will speak to anyone who has experienced childhood abuse. This book will also help counselors, pastors, friends, and family members comprehend the ramifications of childhood abuse and help those they know who are seeking to begin a journey of victory and healing.

Whether we're fifteen or eighty-three, if we've experienced childhood abuse, the child inside us needs healing. Regardless of where we are, we will find new freedom as we release our pasts and pursue our futures through a personal healing journey.

The book is very personal in that you address the readers as friends. Why do you do that?

I refer to readers as my friends, because John 15 tells us to love one another and to share everything we have learned from the Lord. As I sacrifice and surrender details of my life and the lessons of truth found in God's Word, I do so eagerly in the hope that all readers, my friends, may also begin to overcome their own difficult pasts.

What role does hope play in overcoming abuse?

Hope is the critical healing ingredient. Hope in Jesus inspires us to look at our own lives in the light of God's love. This hope gives us the strength to endure this life-changing healing journey and be set free from our pasts to pursue our hope-filled futures.

Jan, please share a couple of truth nuggets for someone who has experienced childhood abuse.

First, if you are a survivor, please know that you did not ask to be abused. You did nothing to cause the abuse. The abuse was not your fault. The perpetrator is the guilty one-not you.

Second, the abusive experiences of your past are what happened to you-they do not define you. John 1:12 tells us that to all of us who believe in Jesus, he gives the right to become children of God. This is forever our identity-daughters and sons of Christ. Understanding that we are members of God's family eternally helps us to let go of the labels of our past and move forward as a Daughter or Son of the King.

For more information on this topic,
please visit

What are you currently working on?

My new book, working title: 10 Secrets to a New Life, will release 2011. It is written to everyday women who want to get their inside world-heart and mind-put right so they can achieve and maintain a godly, positive perspective.

Thank you, Jan, for sharing your story, your life, and your book with us. I know there are many out there who have struggled with letting go of the past, and your book sounds like just the thing to help them do it!

Now, don't forget, my friends-when you leave a comment on this blog, you'll be in the drawing for an autographed copy of Jan's book! Don't forget to check back next week to see if you're a winner!

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September 7 is Quickly Approaching! Are You Working on Your Goal?

Don't give up! I've had a crazy couple of weeks and am a long way from reaching mine, but I will do it! Let's reach our goal together!

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sttlcover100pxHurry! Only One More Week! The Back to School Buy-One-Get-One-Half-Price Sale on Books and Downloadable Writing Classes Ends August 31

Want to learn How to Have Magazine Editors Calling YOU? Wondering how to Write for Children? Want to learn about Writing Opportunities for Christian Writers? Need some books for you or your kids?

Purchase one item and get a second for half price! You can get details here. But you must hurry–sale ends August 31st.

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As Jan reminded us, we do not have to go through life wearing the scars of abuse. Praise God our past does not have to predict our future!

Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God-children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. John 1:12-13

I pray God's blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts,

Vonda

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Need Writing Opportunities? Take a Look at the Smaller Picture

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By Vonda Skelton | August 16, 2010

I received an email last week from a precious writer I've had the joy of encouraging. She's doing everything she needs to do to make the transition from new writer to published writer.

Of course, the first step is that she's following The Christian Writer's Den! (Okay, okay, maybe it's not high on everyone's list, but could I have a little grace here? 🙂 She's also looking into attending a writer's conference in the fall, is seeking opportunities to take other classes and meet with other writers. She's started a blog and purchased a 2010 Christian Writer's Market Guide.

My new friend says there's only one itty-bitty problem–she's completely overwhelmed.

Oh, how I resonated with how she felt–that's exactly where I was 17 years ago! I had written my first book in a mere 3 months, then spent days at the library reading through the Writer's Market Guide. I left with pages and pages of handwritten notes. (Remember, this was in the days prior to laptops, free-flowing internet, and online writer's guidelines). But when I got home and put all the stacks of stuff on the table, I freaked out. There was just too much stuff!

So, instead of studying the market and finding the best fit for my book, I simply went down the list and submitted to almost every children's and Christian book publisher–without even looking at their guidelines. I even submitted to places that didn't publish children's material! After all, I was certain that if the publishing house didn't yet publish children's books, once they read mine, they would!

The truth is, I was overwhelmed by the process.

It's easy to be overwhelmed. At almost 2½ pounds and more than 2 inches thick, the mere size of the Writer's Market Guide can be intimidating. Inside, the small print, inconsistent formatting, and minimal white space make studying the guide a difficult process.

So what's a new writer to do?computer_small

Here's what I tell writers to do today: Put the book on the shelf. Seriously. Put it away for a while. Let's face it, the Writer's Market Guide can be intimidating for the experienced writer. Imagine how much scarier it would it be for a newbie!

So instead of lugging the market guide off the shelf, why not start out with the collections of writing opportunities right here? At the Christian Writer's Den, we collect and post writing opportunities once a month. That means that instead of having to research endless pages of publishers, you can either follow the links to online guidelines or download the information we provide. How easy is that?

You can even go into the Archives under Writing Opportunities and find many guidelines that are still active. 

Then, once you've gotten a little submitting experience under your belt, you'll be more prepared to face the tome called The Writer's Market Guide!

For more help with looking at the smaller picture, check out Edie Melson's great post, Narrowing Down Your Options at The Write Conversation. 

And for more help with discovering the many opportunities available to Christian writers, check out my downloadable class, Opportunities for Christian Writers. Do you like to make crafts? Write scripts? Create crossword puzzles? Check out this class to find hundreds of ways you can put your writing skills to work! And it just happens to be part of my Back-to-School Sale! Check out the Back-to-School-Sale for writers!

So what do you think? Are you ready to face your fear and find a market for your work? Let's do it!

And don't forget to let us celebrate with you when that acceptance comes! 🙂

(Computer photo courtesy of FreeImages.co.uk)

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Marilyn Shipe Takes on The Christian Writer's Den Writing Opportunities!

I'm thrilled to announce that beginning today, writer Marilyn Shipe will be collecting our Christian Writer's Den writer's guidelines. What a blessing this will be for all of us! Thank you, Marilyn!

Be sure and check out Marilyn's Christian Devotions and her blog.

(Door of Opportunity photo courtesy of Erica Swaringen)

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Here Are Your August Writing Opportunities!

1.  DogChannel.com

Most of the articles in Dog Fancy are written by freelancers. They welcome new contributors because they offer fresh ideas Dog Fancy might not otherwise consider.

2.  Mothering.com

Our main objective is to be truly helpful, to provide information that empowers our readers to make changes, and supports them in being their own experts. We like articles that have a strong point of view and come from the heart and are challenging.

3.  National Geographic Traveler

The National Geographic Traveler's publishing goals are to find the new, to showcase fresh travel opportunities, to be an advocate for travelers. A Traveler story must capture a place's essence in a way that inspires readers to follow in the writer's footsteps-and equip them to do so with useful destination information.

4.  Adoptive Families Magazine

Adoptive Families is the leading information resource for families before, during, and after adoption. We want to hear your stories. We encourage you to
share your insights and experiences with other adoptive families. And we're always looking for great writing.

5.  Utmost Christian Writers Poetry Contest

6.  BJU Press

Writing opportunities for Christian fiction and biographies for children and teens; Christian nonfiction for adults.

7.  The Gem

The Gem encourages and motivates people in their Christian walk. 80% unsolicited freelance. Guidelines on website. Special needs: Missions and true stores.

8.  Focus on the Family

Focus on the Family needs a story about how you encouraged/taught your child to be a confident decision maker. Details here.

9.  ChristianDevotions.us

ChristianDevotions is in need of 400 word articles for their Faith and Finances section. Check out the Guidelines and Directions.

Thank you, Marilyn!

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Writing Conferences and Retreats

  • August 28, Anderson, SC Upstate SC American Christian Writers
  • September 10-11, Marietta, GA, Christian Authors Guild Catch the Wave Conference 
  • September 11, Highlands, NC, Celebration of Books, Authors and Readers invited, Contact
  • September 17-18, Keller, TX, North Texas Christian Writers Conference, Keller, TX. I'll be teaching there and would love to see you! 
  • October 3-7, Ridgecrest, NC, Blue Ridge Christian Novelist Retreat 
  • October 8-10, Rocky Mountains, CO Inspiring Writer's Retreat
  • October 19-22, Glorieta, NM, Southwest Christian Writers Studio Edie Melson will be teaching there and would love to see you!
  • October 31-November 2, Comfort, TX, Christian Writers' Retreat with Cec Murphey
  • November 10-14, Abique, NM, CLASS Christian Writers Conference. I'll be teaching there and would love to see you! 

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bitsy_tybee_cover_100pxBack to School Buy-One-Get-One-Half-Price Sale on Books and Downloadable Writing Classes!

Want to learn How to Have Magazine Editors Calling YOU? Wondering how to Write for Children? Want to learn about Writing Opportunities for Christian Writers? Need some books for you or your kids?

Purchase one item and get a second for half price! You can get details here. But you must hurry–sale ends August 31st!

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What Are You Doing to Reach Your Goal?

Did you join me in setting a goal for September 7th? Are you working on it? Believe it or not, I've heard from someone who has already achieved her goal!

So don't give up, my friends. Chances are, if we keep going we'll reach it. But it's certain that if we quit, we won't. Aren't I smart? Yes, you may quote me. 🙂

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I have the privilege of being in the mountains this week with my mother, my sister, and my mother's friend. We're having a great time playing Pigtail and laughing together.

It's a great feeling. I needed it, and I have a feeling I'm not alone. There's so much to do, so many demands on our time. What about you? Are you weary? God's Word reminds us what a blessing it is to have fun with family and friends.

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22

I pray God's blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts,

Vonda

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Spelling for Dollars! and Christian Writer’s Den Readers Get Published!

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By Vonda Skelton | August 10, 2010

If you've been reading this blog any length of time, you've heard me say that editors are becoming more and more discriminating. When I first started writing, instructors told us we had a chapter to get the editors' attention. Then it became five pages. Then one page. Then one paragraph.

Now, many editors say we have one sentence. Ugh.

Of course, it's different with every editor, but the bottom line is, we have a very short amount of time to hook an editor. (For great info on hooking an editor, check out a previous blogpost, Hook ‘Em!) At a writing conference a few years ago, I heard an editor say, "When I read your manuscript, I'm not looking for a reason to publish it. I'm looking for a reason to reject it."

Another editor said, "I'll read the first sentence. If there aren't any errors and if it's interesting, I'll go to the second sentence. If I don't see a problem, I'll go to the third. And on and on. The key is, don't make any mistakes."

No mistakes? None? Now THAT'S a big order!

No mistakes might be a big order, but that must be the goal. Correct word choice and spelling is a good place to start. Here are some of the frequent word choice/spelling mistakes I see when doing critiques.

Your/You're

a.     I love your shirt. (Possessive pronoun)

b.     You're going to wear that shirt? (Contraction-must be able to substitute "you are")

Its/It's

a.     The cat jumped out of its skin. (Possessive pronoun)

b.     It's too bad the cat used his last life. (Contraction-must be able to substitute "it is")

Their/There/They're/There're

a.     I wish their list had my name on it. (Possessive pronoun)

b.     Did you see that skunk over there? (Adverb)

c.      They're too young to be my children. (Contraction-must be able to substitute "they are")

d.     There're too many confusing words here. (I know you don't see this one often, but it's a contraction-must be able to substitute "there are")

Whose/Who's

a.     Do you know whose house this is? (Possessive pronoun)

b.     Who's going to take this box of books to the post office? (Contraction-must be able to substitute "who is")

I admit, I've made–and continue to make–my share of mistakes. But we all must recognize that each time we let one slip through, we're decreasing our chances of seeing our efforts in print. So let's do everything we can to make our work as good as it can be. It doesn't mean we'll be perfect. After all, that won't happen until we see Glory, but it does mean we must not be slack. We must do everything we can to present the best work we can.

And if you're interested in having your work critiqued, I hope you'll check out the Christian Writer's Den critique services (scroll down to Writing Critiques).

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Kudos!

Wow! Do we have a lot to celebrate this month! Congratulations to these Christian Writer's Den readers who checked their work–and it paid off!

1.     Edie Melson (SC)–Edie has a lot of good news to share! First of all, she has just signed a contract for her first book, Fighting Fear, Winning the War at Home, to be published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. The blurb: Saying goodbye to a loved one leaving for war is a gut wrenching proposition. But for those of us left behind it's also the start of our own battle. This collection of devotions is written to help those at home to find God's peace and conquer the fear that ambushes us when we least expect it.

Also, her article, Settings with Emotional Impact, was recently featured in the          Voices Ezine. And one of her manuscripts was recently selected as one of several Bronze Medal Winners in the My Book Therapy Frasier Contest. Edie is co-director of our local Christian Writer's Den group and of the annual             Christian Writer's Den Writing Retreat.

2.     Colleen Luntzel (NC)–Colleen has started a new blog, BringBread.com: Bringing the Bread of Life to a Spiritually Hungry World.

3.     Cindy M. Jones (AL)–Cindy has TWO blessings to celebrate. Her "Breaking Free from the Bondage of Abuse" was published in the August issue of Lifeway's Journey Magazine for Women. Another article will be published in the September issue of Birmingham Magazine-Destinations. 

4.     Marietta Taylor (NC)–Marietta just signed her THIRD contract with See Media Inc. for a book to be released next year. The book is about celebrating holidays frugally yet elegantly.

5.     Cynthia Lovely (NY)-Cynthia said that every time I post Writing Opportunities, she checks them out and sees if she has anything to submit or write about. She responded to a recent need posted for LIVE and now she has another story accepted–this time for the LIVE December 2011 issue!

6.     Barbara Parentini (NC)–Barbara has just organized Light of Carolina Christian Writers, a new writer's group in Chapel Hill, NC. Visit the website for more information. 

7.     Andrea Merrell( SC)–Andrea is another writer with multiple praises!  Her article, Turning Disasters Into Devotions, was recently publi
shed in The Write Life,  and Guideposts has accepted her story, The Prodigals Return, for publication in their next book in the series entitled, Extraordinary Answers to Prayer.

8.     Jeanne Doyon (CT)-Jeanne was recently interviewed on Cindy Jones' blog about Jeanne's award at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.

9.     Cheryl Barker (KS)–Blue Mountain Arts has accepted ANOTHER of Cheryl's pieces, this time for use in their 2011 Easter Card Line. 

10. Marilyn Turk–Marilyn's story, Fishing for Love, won her an all-expense paid trip to Rye, NY to participate in the Guideposts Writers Workshop in October! Marilyn says this is something she has submitted to for years without even receiving acknowledgement that her entry had been received. She says Churchill's famous quote, "Never, never, never give up!" is true!

11. Daphne Woodall (NC)–Daphne's first submitted article, Running for a Higher Cause, and photography was recently published in the Wake Weekly Newspaper. The editor also asked if she'd be interested in writing future assigned articles, as well as her own submissions!

12. Susan Schulz (GA)–Susan's SECOND story has been accepted in the Guideposts book series, Extraordinary Answers to Prayers. Her story, A New Start on Life, will appear in the Unexpected Answers edition.

Thanks to you all for allowing us the joy of celebrating with you! Each one of these announcements is evidence that we can all do it! Yes, it'll take work…most likely a LOT of work…but it can be done!

Congratulations, friends!

(Red pen and fireworks images courtesy of FreeImages.co.uk)

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Don't forget to come back next week and we'll have lots of new opportunities selected just for you. It'll be a joy to see who finds the answer to their search next week. 🙂

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Back to School Buy-One-Get-One-Half-Price Sale on Books and Downloadable Writing Classes!

Want to learn How to Have Magazine Editors Calling YOU? Wondering how to Write for Children? Need some books for you or your kids?

Purchase one item and get a second for half price! You can get details here. But you must hurry–sale ends August 31st!

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How Are You Doing on Reaching Your Goal?

By now, most of us have gotten off-course at least once. Maybe you're like me, and life has taken over again, leaving little time for working the plan. But let's not give up! We can do it! 

Feel free to post how your journey is going. We need each other! 🙂

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As we study and prepare and work for the kingdom, let's remember the words of Paul, spoken to Timothy:

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

I pray God's blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts,

Vonda

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Back to School Special for Writers and Readers!

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By Vonda Skelton | August 5, 2010

sttlcover100pxWant to go to school without leaving your home? Want some great reading for you or the kids? For one month only, I'm having a Buy-One-Get-Any-One-Item-At-Half-Price sale on all my books and downloadable classes! Yep, that's right!

Downloadable classes include: Writing for Children 2-Class Set, How to Have Magazine Editors Calling YOU!, Teaching Children Biblical Truth through Secular Fiction, Write a Novel Children Will Love, and Opportunities for Christian Writers. Handouts are included. bitsy_hilton_head_cover_100px

Books include: Seeing Through the Lies: Unmasking the Myths Women Believe, The Bitsy 3-Book Set, Bitsy and the Mystery at Hilton Head Island, Bitsy and the Mystery at Amelia Island, and Bitsy and the Mystery at Tybee Island. And as an added bonus, I only have hard copies of Tybee Island, so I'm selling those hardbacks at paperback prices! Of course, I'd be happy to sign them for you. 🙂

Here's the deal: 

  • Purchase one audio class or set through PayPal and let me know what item you want for half-price. I'll bill you separately through PayPal for your half-price item and send you the class link or the book!
  • Or purchase one of my books or a set and let me know what item you want for half-price. I'll bill you separately through PayPal for your half-price item and send you the class link or the book!
  • If you decide to purchase the discounted Writing for Children 2-Class set or the Bitsy 3-book set, you'll still be able to get another purchase at half price!
  • And if your second choice is a book, I'll even pay the extra shipping to the same address! (If there are books going to different addresses, shipping will be charged for both addresses.)
  • BUT PLEASE NOTE: Just like Chick-Fil-A and Macy's, the most expensive item will be paid in full and the equal or lesser item will be charged at half price.
  • Also note: This special pricing applies to purchases through my website shopping cart only. It does not include Amazon purchases, even if you link from my site. Sorry. 🙁bitsy_tybee_cover_100px

There is usually a comment section on the PayPal screen where you can send your half-price item request, but if doesn't show for some reason, just email me and we'll connect that way.

So, what do you say? Ready to start school? You can find Seeing Through the Lies and The Bitsy Mystery Series here. And the writer's audio workshops are here.

But please hurry–this offer will end August 31.

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We’re F.I.N.E.: Freaked out, Insecure, Neurotic, and Emotionally unstable

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By Vonda Skelton | August 3, 2010

wrongsphotochristianphotossmallWhen I was writing my women's book, Seeing Through the Lies, I created a survey for women about their fears. My friend, writer and speaker Robin Bryce, cracked me up with one of her answers. She wrote, "I'm okay. You're okay. We're all just FINE…really! (FINE—Freaked out, Insecure, Neurotic, and Emotionally unstable!)" Robin admitted the statement wasn't original with her, but she says there are days she certainly could have coined it.

How about you? How often do you say you're fine, when in truth, you're FINE? If we're honest, we all experience the feeling at one time or another. Why are we afraid to admit our need for help?

In 2 Corinthians 7:5-6, Paul says, When we came into Macedonia, this body of ours had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn–conflicts on the outside, fears within. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus.

Sounds to me like even Paul could have been a little FINE! But did you see that his downcast spirit was lifted by the arrival of Titus?

Writers, we need each other! We need the support and encouragement–the recharging power–of other Christian writers. I'm very blessed to have two special groups of ladies in my life. My writer's group keeps me focused on the written messages God has called me to share. These ladies help me search through Scripture and pore over synonyms and conjugate verbs.

My accountability group doesn't give a rip about synonyms or verbs. Their job is to keep me accountable. These dear friends ask me the hard questions: Are you in the Word? Did you ask God before accepting that assignment? Are you giving Gary the time he needs? With them, I share my struggles, disappointments, and failures, and they love me back to peace.

Two different groups with two different purposes, but both are very necessary parts of my life. Both groups of women pray with me . . . and for me. Both keep me focused on the task at hand–to share the mercy and grace of Jesus Christ. Both love me and encourage me and hold me up to the Father.

But I have to admit, even though we keep in touch by email and Facebook, life has been so busy recently that I've not physically met with either group for a while…and I feel it.

So in an effort to offset the difficulty of meeting in person, a writer/speaker friend and I committed to serving as phone accountability partners. We are supposed to send a planned schedule for each week and then let each other know how we did. But guess what. Invariably, life takes over and we don't even meet on the phone as we should.

Are you like me? Has your life gotten so chaotic that you're missing out on the human input we need in our writing and speaking lives? Do you need a way to motivate yourself without having to meet at a certain time or place?

Well, let's do something about it!

Let's make The Christian Writer's Den a place to help each other, not onlyneverfail1annvoskamp through writing instruction and writing opportunities, but in accountability.

This week, would you join me in making a commitment to each other? Would you post one goal you will complete–Lord willing– by the first Tuesday in September?

I'll take the lead and post mine first: Drumroll, please…deep breath…

By September 7th, I will have my check register posted to my new bookkeeping system. There! I said it!

Now, this may not sound like much to you, but believe me, this is HUGE! I haven't posted the first thing into the new 2010 bookkeeping system! I created the system a few weeks ago, but then got off-track again. I have all my receipts and my check register, but nothing's been transferred to the system.

But I'm solemnly stating today, before God and this assembly, that I will have the register transferred to my new Quickbooks account by September 7. 

I state this promise with fear and trembling. 

So, who's man enough or woman enough to join me in the fear and trembling and do something we know we need to do?

You know you need to, so go ahead. Leave your comment now. 

What are you waiting for?

And who knows–maybe by this time next month we'll all be truly fine…instead of F.I.N.E.

(List of wrongs photo courtesy of ChristianPhotos.net. Never Fail photo courtesy of Ann Voskamp, Holy Experience)

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Another Conference for YOU!

I'm so sorry, but last week I forgot to list The Christian Author's Guild Catch the Wave Conference September 10-11 in the Atlanta area. I've had the joy of speaking at this conference and I know first hand, it's a great way to learn and to connect with other writers. You can get the Catch the Wave brochure here. 

Enjoy! 

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sttlcover100pxBack to School Special for Writers and Readers!

Want to go to school without leaving your home? Want some great reading for you or the kids? For one month only, I'm having a Buy-One-Get-Any-One-Item-At-Half-Price sale on all my books and downloadable classes! Yep, that's right!

Downloadable classes include: Writing for Children 2-Class Set, How to Have Magazine Editors Calling YOU!, Teaching Children Biblical Truth through Secular Fiction, Write a Novel Children Will Love, and Opportunities for Christian Writers. Handouts are included.

Books include: Seeing Through the Lies: Unmasking the Myths Women Believe, The Bitsy 3-Book Set, Bitsy and the Mystery at Hilton Head Island, Bitsy and the Mystery at Amelia Island, and Bitsy and the Mystery at Tybee Island. And as an added bonus, I only have hard copies of Tybee Island, so I'm selling those hardbacks at paperback prices! Of course, I'd be happy to sign them for
you. 🙂

Here's the deal: bitsy_hilton_head_cover_100px

  • Purchase one audio class or set through PayPal and let me know what item you want for half-price. I'll bill you separately through PayPal for your half-price item and send you the class link or the book!
  • Or purchase one of my books or a set and let me know what item you want for half-price. I'll bill you separately through PayPal for your half-price item and send you the class link or the book!
  • If you decide to purchase the discounted Writing for Children 2-Class set or the Bitsy 3-book set, you'll still be able to get another purchase at half price!
  • And if your second choice is a book, I'll even pay the extra shipping to the same address! (If there are books going to different addresses, shipping will be charged for both addresses.)
  • BUT PLEASE NOTE: Just like Chick-Fil-A and Macy's, the most expensive item will be paid in full and the equal or lesser item will be charged at half price.
  • Also note: This special pricing applies to purchases through my website shopping cart only. It does not include Amazon purchases, even if you link from my site. 

There is usually a comment section on the PayPal screen where you can send your half-price item request, but if doesn't show for some reason, just email me and we'll connect that way.

So, what do you say? Ready to start school? You can find Seeing Through the Lies and The Bitsy Mystery Series here. And the writer's audio workshops are here.

But please hurry–this offer will end August 31.

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Kelly Kilpatrick, please contact me.

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And the winner of the Laura Petherbridge book is…

Cindy Patterson! Congratulations, Cindy! Just contact me with your mailing address and the book will be sent right out to you!

And readers, don't forget, we have book giveaways every month. So don't miss out-be sure to sign up for the email reminder and you'll be notified each time a new blog is posted.

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Next Week is Kudos Week!

Please send me your good news so we can celebrate with you! Maybe you signed a publishing contract, have a book coming out, developed a new website or blog, or finally landed an agent. Let us know. Your good news encourages us all to keep walking this walk as a writer for Christ!

Here's what I need:

Name

Your website, if available

State

Good news

Links to good news, if available

Book or magazine cover, if available

Thanks! I can't wait to see what God's done this month. He never lets us down!

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As we partner with each other this week, let's remember these wise words written about 3000 years ago, and so applicable to us today:

Plans fail for lack of counsel,
       but with many advisers they succeed. Proverbs 15:22

I pray God's blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts,

Vonda

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