Tag Archives: Christian Communicators

Parting Words From The WORD . . . God is Greater Than Our Fears

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By Vonda Skelton | May 13, 2016
Laughing Jesus by Robert Wilson, Sr.

Laughing Jesus by Robert Wilson, Sr.

Excuses. As co-director of Christian Communicators Conference, I hear them frequently.

“God can’t use me. I have a terrible past.”

“But I’m not a speaker.”

“Who am I to tell people how to live?”

“When I get my act together, then I’ll be able to speak.”

“I don’t have enough followers.”

“I don’t have a platform.”

“I don’t have anything to talk about.”

“I’ve been a pretty good person. I don’t really have a testimony.”

“I’m scared to speak.”

How many excuses can we give? Well, how many excuses are there? The truth is, for those of us who have given our lives to the Lord and try to live for Him everyday, it doesn’t matter if we’ve been “too good” or “too bad,” there’s not a single “too” that keeps us from ministry.

If we’re honest, we’re probably too fearful. A few weeks ago, my pastor at Renovation Church, Jeremy Havelin, started a teaching series on becoming one. This is his focus because we are in the process of taking two churches and making them one. What an exciting time! It’s a joy to see our Westside building filled with families and men and women and teens and kids and babies as we love and worship our Lord together as one!

Although Pastor Jeremy is teaching on becoming one, his words that day had another application to my heart and mind: Christian Communicators Conference. We’re gearing up for the 7th Christian Communicators Conference and we know from experience that there’ll be ladies there who are fearful.

  • Fearful of speaking
  • Fearful of not measuring up to other women
  • Fearful of being transparent
  • Fearful of stepping out in faith

Pastor Jeremy’s words were perfect for these precious ladies and they’re perfect for you and me: “Know that the greater our God is, the smaller our fears become. Understand that playing it safe is risky.”

Wow. What powerful truth! We know we have a great God, don’t we? Playing it safe is risky when we realize we’re allow fear to keep us from what He has for us to do for His kingdom.

What will you do with your fear? What will I do with mine? Let’s remember how great our God is. We have no reason to fear!

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
     In God, whose word I praise—
in God I trust and am not afraid. Psalm 56:3-4a (NIV)

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

Vonda

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Christian Writer’s Den Kudos & MoGo7000 Successes and Christian Communicators Waiting List is Open!

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By Vonda Skelton | May 10, 2016

Fireworks Pixabay 2It’s the 2nd Tuesday–Time to celebrate our own Christian Writer’s Den friends! Let’s start with Kudos…

So who’s been hard at work and found success in their writing?

1.  Beth Fortune (SC): Beth had a devotion, Busted, accepted by Christian Devotions.us and posted on April 26, 2016

2.  Lori Hatcher (SC): My devotional book, Hungry for God … Starving for Time, 5-Minute Devotions for Busy Women was chosen as the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year in the Gift Book category. The winners of this award are chosen based on reader votes, and I suspect some of my Christian Ccommunicators sisters deserve credit for helping Hungry for God achieve this honor. Many thanks. May God be glorified.

3.  Marilyn Nutter (SC): I’ve had three new publications: 1)Don’t Cry — ChristiandDevotions.us; 2)Mourning Glory — Red Chair Moments; 3)Mourning Call on Jennifer Hallmark’s Acts of Kindness–this one due to the call our on Vonda’s site:)

Congratulations, writers! I’m happy to say that South Carolina is certainly represented well in this kudos this month, but I know we have many more writers around the nation who are also working hard and finding success. I hope to hear from you next month!

And be sure to return next week for a new list of writing opportunities.mogo7000 logo

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Who MoGo’d in April?

#10: Diana Leagh Matthews – 7,134 words

Congratulations, Diana! Friends, if you’re working on a book but not participating in MoGo7000, you’re missing monthly opportunities to win $100 at the end of the year! You can join in the fun–and it’s free! Just check out the MoGo7000 Challenge here.

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ccclogosmallThe Christian Communicators waiting list is now open!

Were you considering Christian Communicators, but found out it’s full? No problem! The waiting list is open–there’s no commitment and it doesn’t cost a cent to get on the list!

Simply contact Conference Coordinator Cynthia Owens at Cynthia [@] TheEfficiencyAddict [dot] com and she’ll be happy to add you to the list. If an opening becomes available, Cynthia will go down the list in order.

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That’s it for another 2nd Tuesday. Be sure to return next week and I’ll share lots of writing conferences, contests, and opportunities to help you on your journey to success!

Blessings,

Vonda

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Writer’s Headlines: Writing Opportunities & Conferences

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By Vonda Skelton | April 19, 2016

newspapersYes, it’s the 3rd Tuesday, so it’s the day to find YOUR next writing opportunity!

1.  Splickety Magazine is Your Flash Fiction Fix! It exists to showcase high-quality short fiction from new writers, best-selling authors, and everyone in between. Here are the Splickety submission guidelines.

2.  Bethany House is looking for submissions for a new anthology. Life-Changing Miracles – True Stories of How God Miraculously Transforms Lives.

3.  Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition guidelines. Hurray the early deadline is May 6.

4.  Pelican Group Easter Lilies Annual Special Release guidelines here, but note: submissions only accepted August 1 – September 30 each year. So get started now so you’ll be ready in August!

5.  Chicken Soup is currently accepting submissions on Teachers, College Students, Moms, Blended Families, Dreams, Parenting, Dogs, Cats, and Confident & Curvy Women. Chicken Soup guidelines here. 

6.  Educational markets for children’s writers   

7.  Free Spirit Publishing: Their mission is to provide children and teens with the tools they need to succeed in life and to make a difference in the world. They publish high-quality nonfiction books and learning materials for children and teens, parents, educators, counselors, and others who live and work with young people.

8.  Reader’s Digest: “If you are a writer and would like to submit a great article proposal, email us at .”

9.  Parents Magazine is always looking for writers

10. Creation Illustrated Writers and Photographers guidelines

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ workshop sign Pixabay

Writing Conferences are Your Ticket to Success!

1.  Writing Success 25: April 30, 2016, Stoneboro, PA

2.  Colorado Christian Writers Conference: May 11-14, 2016, Estes Park, CO

3.  Northwest Christian Writers Renewal: May 13-14, 2016, Redmond, WA

4.  Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference: May 22-26, 2016, Ridgecrest, NC (I’ll see you there!)

5.  West Texas Writers’ Academy: June 6-10, 2016, Canyon, TX

6.  Write to Publish: June 8-11, 2016, Chicago area

7.  West Virginia Writers Conference: June 10-12, 2016, Ripley, WV

8.  New England Christian Writers Retreat: June 17-19, 2016, Hamilton, MA

9.  St. David’s Christian Writers Conference: June 22-26, 2016, Grove City, PA

10. Kentucky Christian Writers Conference: June 23-25, 2016, Elizabethtown, KY

11. Romance Writers of America: July 13-16, 2016, San Diego, CA

12. Greater Philly Christian Writer’s Conference: August 3-6, 2016, Langhorne, PA

13. Taylor University’s Professional Writing Conference: August 5-6, 2016, Upland, IN (This is a brand new conference!)

14. Atlanta Christian Writers Conference: August 18-20, 2016, Marietta, GA

ccclogosmall15. Christian Communicators Conference: August 24-28, 2016 The Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove, Asheville, NC. (Only 7 spots left–Don’t delay!)

16. American Christian Fiction Writers: August 25-28, 2016, Nashville, TN

17. Breathe Christian Writers Conference: October 7-8, 2016, Grand Rapids, MI

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That’s it for another 3rd Tuesday Opportunities Day. What are YOU going to do with it? :-)

Happy writing!

Vonda

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Parting Words From The WORD…Open Doors

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By Vonda Skelton | April 15, 2016
Laughing Jesus by Robert Wilson, Sr.

Laughing Jesus by Robert Wilson, Sr.

As speakers and writers, we often struggle with promotion. And it’s no wonder. Throughout God’s Word and throughout our lives as Christians we’re challenged to humble ourselves, think of others better than ourselves, guard against pride and self-focus. (I wrote about this whole idea on a post years ago. You can read Would Jesus Network? here.)

Reality is, if we want to share our verbal and written words with the world, we must speak up, whether audibly or written. Otherwise, how will they know about our message of grace and mercy that’s available to them by calling on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ? As Paul says:

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? Romans 10:13-14

How can they hear without someone telling them?

Okay, so now that we see the need, what can we do to gain more opportunity to tell others, while still holding tight to Jesus’ words and our convictions?

The first thing is in who we’re promoting. Are our words all about us, or are they about what He’s done for us? There’s a huge difference between “Let me tell you about what I can do” vs “Let me tell you about what He’s done.”

Once we have that straight and are focused on promoting what Him, it’s time to ask for open doors. Yes, we need open doors. We need opportunities to speak and write. And that, dear friends, is what we should be praying for.

And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.  Colossians 4:3 (NIV)

Just as Paul asked for open doors to share Christ while He was in chains for the Gospel, we should pray for open doors to share Christ through our lives and ministries.

Open doors.

That’s my prayer for you…and me…today.

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

Vonda

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Writer’s Headlines: Writing Opportunities & Conferences and Christian Communicators Registration is Open!

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By Vonda Skelton | March 15, 2016

newspapersYes, it’s the 3rd Tuesday, so it’s the day to find YOUR next writing opportunity!

1.  Alaska Magazine Submission Guidelines for Freelance Writers – And yes, we have a couple of writers who live in Alaska, so girls, this is for you!

2.  The Cattleman Magazine – Guidelines for Writing for The Cattleman – Yes, we have some cowgirls, too. :-)

3.  Alive Now writers guidelines and theme list

4.  Chicken Soup for the Soul possible book titles - They’re always looking for new stories!

5.  American Girl Magazine accepts entries by children!

6.  Bible Advocate and Now What? writer’s guidelines

7.  Faith Today: Canada’s Christian Magazine

8.  Submission guidelines for BABYBUG, LADYBUG, SPIDER, ASK, CRICKET, and CICADA magazines for babies through teens

9.  Writer’s guidelines for Catholic Digest.

10. Eldridge Plays and Musicals submission guidelines

11.  Photo Life could be looking for your photos!

12. Sasee Magazine for Women. It’s all about women. It’s all about you.

13. Mary Kaarto is looking for counselors.  “I’m looking to interview licensed or certified counselors that deal with substance abuse, domestic violence, suicide prevention, grief counselors, pastors who offer couples counseling and anyone with active involvement in an unemployment ministry for a book I’m writing. Please contact me with your credentials at . Thank you.”

14. Grace Publishing is accepting manuscript submissions

15. Jennifer Hallmark is taking blog submissions for 2016: Have you ever been overwhelmed by gratefulness over an act of kindness by a friend, family member, or organization? Have your children or spouse done something so sweet you just have to share? I have openings on my website’s blog page, Small Acts of Kindness, scattered throughout the rest of this year. I post every Monday.

I’m looking for a 300-700 word story sharing your experience. Please include photos or pictures you’d like me to post, book blurb and cover. I also will add any links and a short bio if you’d like.

Please reply to jenlhall63 (at) gmail (dot) com if you are interested. For examples, go to Thanks! p.s. We also have interviews open on the Writing Prompts blog for the second half of the year.

Well, that should keep you busy for a while! Be sure to let me know when you get that publication!

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Image courtesy of StuartMiles/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Image courtesy of StuartMiles/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Conferences are your ticket to success!

Here’s a list of upcoming writing and/or speaking conferences. Make your plans now to attend at least one conference a year. You wouldn’t expect to get a job without being prepared and qualified, would you? You can be sure your chances of publication increase with your training and experience in writing as well.

1.  Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference: March 18-22, 2016, Mount Hermon, CA

2.  Mid-South Christian Writers Conference: March 19, 2016, Collierville, TN

3.  American Christian Writers Mentoring Retreats begin in April: Various locations and dates

4.  Write2Ignite for Writers of Children’s Literature: April 1-2, 2016, Tigerville, SC

5.  Orange County Christian Writers’ Conference: April 15-16, 2016, Fullerton, CA

6.  Writing Success 25: April 30, 2016, Stoneboro, PA

7.  Colorado Christian Writers Conference: May 11-14, 2016, Estes Park, CO

8.  Blue Lake Christian Writers Retreat: April 20-23, 2016, Andalusia, AL (This is a NEW conference!)

9.  Northwest Christian Writers Renewal: May 13-14, 2016, Redmond, WA

brmcwc 201610. Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference: May 22-26, 2016, Ridgecrest, NC (I’ll see you there!)

11. West Texas Writers’ Academy: June 6-10, 2016, Canyon, TX

12. Write to Publish: June 8-11, 2016, Chicago area

13. West Virginia Writers Conference: June 10-12, 2016, Ripley, WV

14. New England Christian Writers Retreat: June 17-19, 2016, Hamilton, MA

15. St. David’s Christian Writers Conference: June 22-26, 2016, Grove City, PA

16. Kentucky Christian Writers Conference: June 23-25, 2016, Elizabethtown, KY

17. Romance Writers of America: July 13-16, 2016, San Diego, CA

18. Greater Philly Christian Writer’s Conference: August 3-6, 2016, Langhorne, PA

19. Taylor University’s Professional Writing Conference: August 5-6, 2016, Upland, IN (This is a brand new conference!)

20. Atlanta Christian Writers Conference: August 18-20, 2016, Marietta, GAccclogosmall

21. Christian Communicators Conference: August 24-28, 2016 The Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove, Asheville, NC. Registration will open in March. Registration opens today! Don’t delay–Only 30 slots available!

22. American Christian Fiction Writers: August 25-28, 2016, Nashville, TN

23. Breathe Christian Writers Conference: October 7-8, 2016, Grand Rapids, MI

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4 CCC girls 2012Ladies, it’s the day you’ve been waiting for! Christian Communicators Conference Registration is now open!

Could this be YOUR year to take the next bold step into your speaking ministry? Whether you’re novice just testing the waters, or an experienced speaker with years of events behind you, this conference is just what you need!

All-inclusive package, including video and headshots? Yes!

Ongoing mentoring and networking opportunities? Yes!

Ongoing community support of like-minded sisters? Yes!

Intimate conference of only about 30 ladies, set in the beautiful NC mountains at The Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove? Yes!

Let this be the year you find out what all the excitement is about.

Anonymous comments from last year’s post-conference evaluation:

“It was unforgettable. Life-changing. It anchored me to a breakthrough understanding of my calling. It was a deep cleaning of my soul, an inspired 4 days that will affect the rest of my life.”

“I’ve attended many conferences and, hands down, this is the best one EVER! It was well-planned and executed. I would have loved to stay another day…”

“I’m a conference junkie, and I’ve never seen a conference so adept at facilitating relationship-building before…”

 Find out more…

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Thanks for sharing!

#Writing opportunities & conferences. #Christian Communicators registration now open! #publicspeaker (Click to Tweet)

Happy writing and speaking!

Vonda

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We’re Celebrating YOU Today! And Christian Communicators Registration is Opening Soon!

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By Vonda Skelton | March 8, 2016
FreeDigitalPhotos/Iosphere

FreeDigitalPhotos/Iosphere

It’s time to celebrate YOU with our Christian Writer’s Den Kudos!

Congratulations to the following Christian Writer’s Den friends who’ve been doing the work and finding success!

1. Cathy Baker (SC): I’ve been asked to be regular contributor to the Piedmont Women’s Center site. (Vonda here: I LOVE Piedmont Women’s Center, our local Crisis Pregnancy Center. Thank you for reaching out to these precious mamas and babies!)

2. Cheryl Barker (KS): A poem of mine that’s been previously used by Blue Mountain Arts has been included in their new gift book compilation I Love You, Mom. It released February 1st.

3. Andrea Merrell (SC): I am very excited about being part of the faculty at the Atlanta Christian Writers Conference (ACWC) in Marietta, GA in August. I will be teaching a workshop, meeting with conferees, and doing a short keynote. If you live in that area, I would love to see you there.

4. Beth Fortune (SC): I was asked to speak at a Mother-Daughter Banquet at a church in Monck’s Corner, SC in May.

5. Marilyn Nutter (SC): Had a dialog– The Owl Song– with her granddaughter, published in Wit
and Wisdom for the Wee Ones: A Whimsical Collection of Endearing Quips and Quotes compiled by Eileen Rife.

Friends, if you didn’t have anything to share in our Kudos this month, be sure to check out the writing opportunities I’m collecting for you!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~mogo

Who MoGo’d in February?

These friends wrote at least 7000 words on a book project in January and earned an entry in the 2016 drawing for $100 at the end of the year!

#5: Diana Leagh – 54,643 words
#6: Amanda Everett – 8,411 words
#7: Susan Baganz – 8,567 words

Way to go, writers! And readers, if you want to join in the fun and have a bunch of chances to win $100 at the end of the year, check out the MoGo7000 Challenge. It’s free!

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christian-communicators-promo-cove-2016Drumroll please…We’re pleased to announce that your wait is ALMOST over!

Christian Communicators Conference registration will open one week from today! This is the 6th conference and will be held August 24-28 at the Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove in beautiful Asheville, NC.

The dates are set, the faculty is lined up, The Cove is anticipating our return, and Carolyn and I are excited to watch as God brings another amazing group of sisters into the community!

Join us this year as we welcome our expanded, experienced Christian Communicators leadership team!

With registration limited to only 30 ladies and membership lasting long past the conference, your experience is like no other.

As many have said and you may have heard:
Christian Communicators is more than a conference…it’s a community.

Your Christian Communicators relationship doesn’t end at the close of Sunday. Instead, you’ll discover it’s just the beginning! After attending CCC, you’ll be part of a vibrant, exciting group of ladies who experience continued promotional and educational opportunities to learn and grow as speakers, writers, and sisters in the Lord.

At a Christian Communicators Conference, less truly is more… ccc girls on couch Oct '11

  • You won’t be surrounded by hundreds of women…but you’ll be embraced by a few who will become lifelong friends
  • You won’t experience long lines for dinner…but you’ll have long conversations over dessert
  • You won’t need change for vending machines…but shared stories at afternoon tea can change your life
  • You won’t find big stages…but you’ll find lots of big hearts

Come and learn in a small, intimate setting…
then go out and change a great big world!

Your all-inclusive package includes everything you need to start or expand your speaking ministry!

  • How to create and deliver a message? It’s in there!
  • How to dress? It’s in there!
  • How to promote your ministry and gain new speaking opportunities? They’re in there!
  • Headshots? Yes!
  • Video footage? Yes!
  • Business forms…determining your fees…generating additional income…
  • Social media training…fine dining etiquette…a lovely afternoon tea…
  • The list goes on and on.

As a participant in this unique conference, you’ll learn how to:

  • Discover your ministry focus and mission
  • Create compelling messages by including Biblical Truth and your own experiences and stories of life
  • Incorporate drama, music, props, and humor into your presentations
  • Use the stage to your best advantage
  • Dress for the occasion
  • Develop the forms, manage the paperwork, and set up an organized system
  • Use social networking to share your ministry with others
  • Get your information into the hands of event planners
  • Interact professionally with church and business leaders, including protocol and etiquette
  • Face your fears and move forward in the call God has placed on your life

WC&T-Tony Fraga

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give
the reason for the hope that you have.  I Peter 3:15

The Christian Communicators Conference Package is ALL-INCLUSIVE!

Yes, CCC’s program package is all-inclusive. You won’t find a more complete program anywhere!

  • Lodging for 5 days and 4 nights
  • Meals from Wednesday dinner through Sunday lunch
  • Snacks, access to the free yogurt bar and cappuccino machines, and continuous coffee and soft drinks
  • A lovely afternoon tea, appropriate for tea attire, if desired
  • Classes, breakout sessions, and training
  • Handouts, notebook, and bag
  • Reproducible ministry forms
  • Professionally recorded video of your presentation
  • Headshot session with professional photographer
  • Fine dining etiquette class
  • Two additional classes on video for continued home study
  • Limited registration
  • Critiques
  • Give-aways
  • Free airport pick up and return
  • Friendship and support from ministry-focused women
  • Personal one-hour phone appointment with Carolyn or Vonda after conference

There are no surprise expenses!

CCC 2013 fancy stageThis is an exciting week of learning, growing, and hearing from the Lord. But don’t just take our word for it. Check out last year’s Christian Communicators Testimonial Page to hear from some of our graduates. Then we hope you’ll head on over and check out the Registration Details, Schedule, Leadership Team, and Scholarships.

Don’t let another year go by without taking the next step in your speaking journey.

Our prayer is that this week will change your life and equip you to fulfill the plan God has for you!

Please feel free to check out last year’s details at The new details and registration will go live next Tuesday!

We’d love to hear from you. :-)

Blessings,

Vonda

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Writer’s Headlines: Writing Opportunities & Conferences Collected Just For YOU!

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By Vonda Skelton | February 16, 2016

newspapersThis is the 3rd Tuesday and that means I have lots of writing opportunities for you!

We’ve had lots of Christian Writer’s Den writers find publication through the monthly writing opps and contests. Could this be your month?

As always, remember to check out the publication to discover their voice and slant, and then follow instructions carefully.

1.  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.

2.  Utmost Christian Writers Poetry Contest

3.  BJU Press

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

4.  Christian Devotions Ministry Submissions

Christian Devotions is always looking for devotions. And they love working with new writers who are willing to learn!

5.  WritersWeekly.com posts a list of paying markets every week!

6.  Chicken Soup for the Soul is always looking for writers. Currently looking for poetry and stories about Blended Families, College Students, Dreams, Teachers, The Joy of Christmas, and The Spirit of Canada.

7.  Connecticut Magazine

8.  Women’s Adventure Magazine is no longer a paying print market, but it’s open to submissions that can build your resume!

9.  Homeschooling Today only accepts completed articles. No queries, please.

10. Canoeroots North America’s only canoeing and canoe camping magazine.

11. GoNOMAD magazine, inspiration and links to plan your trip

12. Cruising World Guidelines for Writers and Photographers

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Conference Room fdp Pixomar

If you’re serious about writing or speaking, you’ll be serious about attending conferences!

Here’s a list of upcoming writing and/or speaking conferences. Make your plans now to attend at least one conference a year. You wouldn’t expect to get a job without being prepared and qualified, would you? You can be sure your chances of publication increase with your training and experience in writing as well.

1.  Writers Advance Boot Camp / Asheville Christian Writers Conference: February 19-21, 2016, Asheville, NC (I’ll see you there!)

2.  Florida Christian Writers Conference: February 24-28, 2016, Leesburg, FL

3.  Carolina Christian Writers Conference: March 11-12, 2016, Spartanburg, SC

4.  Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference: March 18-22, 2016, Mount Hermon, CA

5.  Mid-South Christian Writers Conference: March 19, 2016, Colliersville, TN

6.  American Christian Writers Mentoring Retreats begin in April: Various locations and dates

7.  Write2Ignite for Writers of Children’s Literature: April 1-2, 2016, Tigerville, SC

8.  Orange County Christian Writers’ Conference: April 15-16, 2016, Fullerton, CA

9. Colorado Christian Writers Conference: May 11-14, 2016, Estes Park, CO

10. Blue Lake Christian Writers Retreat: April 20-23, 2016, Andalusia, AL (This is a NEW conference!)

brmcwc 201611. Northwest Christian Writers Renewal: May 13-14, 2016, Redmond, WA

12. Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference: May 22-26, 2016, Ridgecrest, NC (I’ll see you there!)

13. West Texas Writers’ Academy: June 6-10, 2016, Canyon, TX

14. Write to Publish: June 8-11, 2016, Chicago area

15. West Virginia Writers Conference: June 10-12, 2016, Ripley, WV

16. New England Christian Writers Retreat: June 17-19, 2016, Hamilton, MA

17. St. David’s Christian Writers Conference: June 22-26, 2016, Grove City, PA

18. Romance Writers of America: July 13-16, 2016, San Diego, CA

19. Taylor University’s Professional Writing Conference: August 5-6, 2016, Upland, IN (This is a brand new conference!)

20. Christian Communicators Conference: August 24-28, 2016 The Billy Graham Training Center at Theccclogosmall Cove, Asheville, NC. Registration will open in March. (I’ll see you there!) Please note: The 2016 conference isn’t uploaded quite yet, but it will be soon! Please don’t register yet. :-)

21. Breathe Christian Writers Conference: October 7-8, 2016, Grand Rapids, MI

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Well, that’s should keep you busy for a while. Happy writing!

Vonda

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Writer’s Headlines: Writing Opportunities and Conferences

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By Vonda Skelton | January 19, 2016

newspapersHello, Christian Writer’s Den friends. This is our monthly Opportunities issue, so let’s see if we can help you get published! Let’s start with writing opportunities compiled just for you.

1.  Bethany House Miraculous Answers to Prayer Call-out deadline has been extended to January 31, 2016!

2.  Donna Goodrich is working on a caregiver book. While it will include inspiration, devotionals, and humor, she also wants practical information to help caregivers find their way in the labyrinth. You can get guidelines for that project by emailing Donna at: msencourager [@] cox [dot] net

3.  Cat Fancy writer’s guidelines 

4.  Wisconsin Trails writing guidelines

5.  DollarStretcher.com writing guidelines

6.  Blue Ridge Country editorial guidelines

7.  AmericanCatholic.org writing guidelines

8.  Working Mother writers guidelines

9.  Astronomy Magazine article submission guidelines

10. Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine writers’ guidelines

11.  Lots of writing opps and contests listed at Christian Writers Submission Information by Sally Clark

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Image courtesy of StuartMiles/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Image courtesy of StuartMiles/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

If you’re serious about writing and speaking, you’ll be serious about attending

conferences. 

When I first started this writing journey, I didn’t have money for conferences, so I asked my family and friends to contribute to my conference fund rather than giving me gifts for Christmas, birthday, Valentine’s Day, anniversary, and Mother’s Day. That went a long way towards my conferences. You might want to try it, too.

Here’s a list of upcoming writing and/or speaking conferences. Make your plans now to attend at least one conference a year. You wouldn’t expect to get a job without being prepared and qualified, would you? You can be sure your chances of publication increase with your training and experience in writing as well.

1.  Weekend with the Writers: January 29-30, 2016, Greenville, SC

2.  Writers Advance Boot Camp / Asheville Christian Writers Conference: February 19-21, 2016, Asheville, NC (I’ll see you there!)

3.  Florida Christian Writers Conference: February 24-28, 2016, Leesburg, FL

4.  Carolina Christian Writers Conference: March 11-12, 2016, Spartanburg, SC

5.  Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference: March 18-22, 2016, Mount Hermon, CA

6.  Mid-South Christian Writers Conference: March 19, 2016, Colliersville, TN

7.  American Christian Writers Mentoring Retreats begin in April: Various locations and dates

8.  Write2Ignite for Writers of Children’s Literature: April 1-2, 2016, Tigerville, SC

9.  Orange County Christian Writers’ Conference: April 15-16, 2016, Fullerton, CA

brmcwc 201610. Colorado Christian Writers Conference: May 11-14, 2016, Estes Park, CO

11. Northwest Christian Writers Renewal: May 13-14, 2016, Redmond, WA

12. Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference: May 22-26, 2016, Ridgecrest, NC (I’ll see you there!)

13. Write to Publish: June 8-11, 2016, Chicago area

14. West Virginia Writers Conference: June 10-12, 2016, Ripley, WV

15. New England Christian Writers Retreat: June 17-19, 2016, Hamilton, MA

16. St. David’s Christian Writers Conference: June 22-26, 2016, Grove City, PA

17. Christian Communicators Conference: August 24-28, 2016 The Billy Graham Training Center at Theccclogosmall Cove, Asheville, NC. Registration will open in March. (I’ll see you there!) Please note: The 2016 conference isn’t uploaded quite yet, but it will be soon! Please don’t register yet. :-)

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Thanks for Sharing!

 #Writing & #speaking opportunities & conferences to help you get published & speak! @VondaSkelton (Click to Tweet!) 

Happy writing!

Vonda

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Writer’s Headlines: Writing Opps, Conferences and Contests

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By Vonda Skelton | November 17, 2015

newspapers

(Vonda here: I’m sorry for the delay in today’s post. My internet has been down since yesterday and I’m just now up and running again. Hope like all the opportunities I found for you!)

Hello, Christian Writer’s Den friends! This is our big opportunities issue, so let’s see if we can help you get published! Let’s start with writing opportunities compiled just for you!

1.  Miraculous Answers to Prayer anthology
 This new anthology by James Stuart Bell is looking for your stories. Here are the Miraculous Answers to Prayer Guidelines. But you must hurry–Deadline is now December 1, 2015.

2.  Adoptive Families Magazine
 Adoptive Families is the leading information resource for families before, during, and after adoption.

3.  Blue Mountain Arts Greeting Cards
 Seeks contemporary prose or poetry written from personal experience that reflects the thoughts and feelings people today want to communicate to one another, but don’t always know how to put into words. Does not need rhymed poetry, religious verse, one-liners or humor. Pays $300 for all rights and $50 for one-time rights for a book use.

4.  Colorado Central Magazine
 To put our guidelines in a nutshell: We publish material we like to read about the area we live in. We’re not interested in it if it’s routine and boring, or if it’s not about this area. We serve Central Colorado and the San Luis Valley. On a map, that’s a swath from Leadville and Fairplay south to the New Mexico line. It’s the counties of Alamosa, Chaffee, Conejos, Costilla, Custer, Lake, Mineral, Rio Grande, and Saguache, along with the adjacent parts of Fremont, Gunnison, Huerfano and Park counties.

5.  Eating Well Magazine
 EatingWell is the only national food magazine that focuses exclusively on eating healthfully (our motto: “Where Good Taste Meets Good Health”). We are the preeminent magazine resource for people who want to enjoy food that is delicious and good for them.

6.  Alaska Magazine Submission Guidelines for Freelance Writers

7.  The Cattleman Magazine – Guidelines for Writing for The Cattleman

8.  Better Homes and Gardens writers guidelines

9.  Backpacker Magazine guidelines

10. Southern Writers Magazine guidelines

Remember to follow the guidelines carefully and then let us celebrate with you when you have a publication!

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If you’re serious about writing and/or speaking, you’ll be serious about attending conferences. Here are some awesome conferences you don’t want to miss!WritersBootcamp2016 logo

1. Weekend with the Writers: January 29-30, 2016, Greenville, SC

2. Writers Advance Boot Camp: February 19-21, 2016, Asheville, NC Scholarship deadline October 31, 2015 (I’ll see you there!)

3. Florida Christian Writers Conference: February 24-28, 2016, Leesburg, FL

4. Carolina Christian Writers Conference: March 11-12, 2016, Spartanburg, SC

5. Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference: March 18-22, 2016, Mount Hermon, CA

6. Mid-South Christian Writers Conference: March 19, 2016, Colliersville, TN

7. American Christian Writers Mentoring Retreats begin in April: Various locations and dates

brmcwc 20168. Write2Ignite for Writers of Children’s Literature: April 1-2, 2016, Tigerville, SC

9. Colorado Christian Writers Conference: May 11-14, 2016, Estes Park, CO

10. Northwest Christian Writers Renewal: May 13-14, 2016, Redmond, WA

11. Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference: May 22-26, 2016, Ridgecrest, NC (I’ll see you there! Watch for details coming soon!)

12. Write to Publish: June 8-11, 2016, Chicago area

13. West Virginia Writers Conference: June 10-12, 2016, Ripley, WV

14. New England Christian Writers Retreat: June 17-19, 2016, Hamilton, MA

15. Christian Communicators Conference: Hold the date! August 24-28, 2016, The Billy Graham Trainingccclogosmall Center at The Cove, Asheville, NC. Registration will open in early spring. (I’ll see you there!)

16. St. David’s Christian Writers Conference: June 22-26, 2016, Grove City, PA

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And here are some writing contests you’ll want to look into…

1.  The Amy Awards for Christian-related pieces published in secular publications. Deadline January 15, 2016

2.  Fresh Voices Writing Contest is now open for submissions – Deadline December 31, 2015

3.  Writer’s Digest Short Short Story Contest – Deadline December 14, 2015

4.  The Anagram Holiday Short Fiction Contest – Deadline December 19, 2015

5.  NeoVerse Short Story Writing Competition – Deadline December 20, 2015

Red Sale Bag pixabay~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Need some help with your Christmas list? I can help!

Yep, it’s time for my buy-one-get-one-half-price Christmas sale! That’s right, buy any product in my store and you’ll get the second item for half-price!

But here’s the catch: You’ll need to order it directly from me by email, or PayPal will charge you the full price! So, head on over to my store and decide what you’d like and who you’d like to have it personalize it to, and then contact me with your order. I’ll get in touch and you can either pay by check or by credit card. DO NOT ORDER THROUGH REGULAR PAYPAL or you won’t get the discount!

Whether you need downloadable writing workshops or books for kids or women, this sale is for you!

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So that should keep you busy for a while. Don’t forget to let us know when you get that publication. We’ll want to celebrate with you.

Happy writing!

Vonda

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Parting Words From The WORD…Will We Be Sharers?

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By Vonda Skelton | October 9, 2015

sad woman fdp Frame AngelI can’t believe it, but fall is here and like it or not, that means it’s only weeks until we’ll be officially in the holiday season. It’s supposed to be a time of joy and love and family togetherness. But it can be a difficult time for many. Heartache, loneliness, stress, and family and financial hardships can bring grief and guilt rather than love and gifts.

As lovers of Christ who know the hope and grace of Jesus, we have a responsibility to seek out those who may be struggling over the next few weeks and months. God has raised us up as sharers of His Word, and whether we’re doing it from a stage, a written page, or a living room sofa, we must be faithful to do what He’s called us to do.

So, would you join me in asking the Father to open our eyes to those around us who are hurting? And then, let’s ask Him to put His words in our mouths so that we will be able to reach their hearts with the hope and peace that only He can give. The peace that truly does pass all understanding.

Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
Psalm 42:11

We have what the world needs, and He has called us to share it.

Let’s go forth in the confidence and power of His Great Name!

Grace and peace,

Vonda

(Photo courtesy of FrameAngel/FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

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