Writing Moms & Dads

Interview with Writing Mom Roma Downey and a Giveaway

January 15, 2012 By Gina Leave a Comment

I had the privilege to interview Roma Downey and ask her questions about her life as a busy professional and mom and about her faith.

Roma Downey is an actress, author, and producer. Born and raised in Ireland, Roma is This summer, she was on the Hallmark Channel starring in the TV movie “Keeping up with the Randalls.” Last year she was also on Hallmark intheir summer hit “Come Dance At My Wedding.”

Her growing popularity led to her notable role as American icon Jackie Kennedy Onassis (“Jackie O”) in the Emmy Award Winning miniseries, “A Woman Named Jackie.”

Additionally, Downey has both executive produced and starred in multiple hit movies for CBS television, most notably “Borrowed Hearts,” “Monday After The Miracle,” “A Secret Life,” “The Sons of Mistletoe” and “The Survivors Club.”

Downey’s gifts extend far beyond the scope of Hollywood. She is a national spokesperson for Operation Smile, a charitableorganization which provides help and corrective surgeries to the over 200,000 children born with severe cleft lip conditions throughout the world. Through Operation Smile, she has travelled to CentralAmerica, to Asia and to the Middle East oninternational medical missions and was accompanied by her husband Mark and their three children, Reilly, James and Cameron to Jordan where they donated the equipment, supplies and training funds necessary to construct and operate the Roma Downey Life Support Training Center in Amman.

Downey is also an accomplished author, having written two children’sbooks, “Love is a Family” and “Leave a Message with the Moon” She has recorded an inspirational album of spoken word and poetry called “Healing Angel.”

Roma lives in Malibu, CA with her husband, producer Mark Burnett, their three teenage children and their two very large Irish wolfhounds, Finn McCool and Maximus!

Please welcome Roma to Writer…Interrupted.

Roma, where did the idea for the LITTLE ANGELS series come from?

God in Heaven, my Savior dear

Watch over my children and draw thou near

Send your little angels to be at their side

To light and to guard to love and to guide

This is a prayer I was taught growing up in Ireland and as a young child used to say it nightly with my parents. I was raised to believe in angels, and it was comforting and reassuring as a child to feel that there were angels always watching over me. Then for almost ten years I starred on the hit CBS television show “Touched By An Angel.” I played Monica, the tender hearted messenger, and while the story changed from week to week, the message was always the same – There is a God and God Loves us. It was about doing the right thing and sharing God’s love.

I wanted to be able to bring that same message of love and reassurance to young children and “Little Angels” does just that. The series provides good, warm and wonderful instruction about life lessons and important learning concepts, told through colorful animation. My “Little Angels” are painted on a mural on the ceiling of Alex and Zoe’s nursery. They are the last thing the children see when they go to sleep at night and the first thing they see when they wake up in the morning

Alex and Zoe are adorable four-year-old twins and they face all the challenges that any preschooler has to deal with and the Little Angels get to share adventures with them along the way

When Mom and Dad aren’t around, the “Little Angels” come to life and fly down and interact with the twins. They provide the kids with real practical learning skills such as ABC’s, 123′s and Animals, but they also teach important core family values such as being kind and sharing, being truthful and honest and showing gratitude and love.

There are eight little angel characters each with a distinct personality and they are always there when the kids need them most. The angels also offer the kids a glimpse into the world of the Bible by whisking Alex and Zoe back in time to share in some of our beloved Bible stories. And because the angels are messengers from above, they are there to always remind Alex and Zoe (and our little viewers at home) that they are never alone, for God is always watching over them and loving them. In addition, Little Angels is super cute and funny! It has colorful animation, adorable characters, and charming, upbeat sing-along music! This beautiful, heartfelt series wants to share a message of love and the joy of learning with preschool children everywhere.

How has your faith played a role in this project?

My faith is central to who I am so it plays a big role in everything in my life. I am fortunate that much of my working life has been about sharing inspiration and hope. I believe in God and am eager to share His message of love with everyone.

What obstacles did you have to overcome to see this project through to completion?

The challenge in launching a new children’s series is spreading the word. I know once families discover “Little Angels,” they will love it. I have 3 amazing DVD’s – “Little Angels ABCs,” “Little Angels 123’s” & “Little Angels Animals” plus musical CD’s, “Little Angels” Storybooks and even a “Little Angels” app…..great news for a long car ride!

I know that as parents we are looking for product we can trust and “Little Angels” was created with that in mind. We even have the MOPs (Mothers of Pre-schoolers) Seal of Approval.

You’ve written two other books, “Love is a Family,” and “Leave a Message with the Moon,” and recorded an inspirational album of poetry called “Healing Angel,” not to mention your television work on Touched By An Angel, and now this project. How did you do all this and be mom to three children?

My husband, Mark Burnett, is a great partner and as busy as it gets, we just try to make our family a priority. We have 3 teens so its hectic sometimes, too. Listen, nothing is perfect but we keep doing the best we can. We listen and share and try to make time for each other. One thing we really consider to be important is our family dinner, free of television and cell phones. Quality time together — that’s the key.

If you could do one thing over again related to your career and parenting, what would it be?

I am not a big one for “would have, could have, should have”….live and learn and move on. Forgiveness of self and forgiveness of others. Life is too short to not be willing to move forward with gratitude because it’s all a blessing really. It’s the glass half full, to see what you have and to be grateful.

Great, advice, Roma! What would you tell moms struggling to balance their family life and dreams they know are from God?

You know how on a plane when the flight attendant reminds us in an emergency to take the oxygen mask first before assisting our child? It reminds me that sometimes we just need to breathe, take a bath, find a moment to recharge. We are busy juggling our lives and careers and kids and giving of ourselves. Being a Mom is rewarding but it can be hard work. God is the oxygen. Take time to breath in His blessings and trust that His air supply is unconditional and never ending.

Well, said! Roma, thank you so much for sharing you heart and love of God and for this series “Little Angels” which I know will bless so many!

If you would like to be entered to win one of the “Little Angels” dvd please leave your name and email.

Filed Under: Free Stuff!, Writing Moms & Dads

Interview with Writing/Homeschooling Mom Jody Hedlund

September 23, 2011 By Gina Leave a Comment

Be a Trailblazer Contest: During the month of September, Jody is running an epic contest with a prize package worth $300. Here’s the link to the contest page: http://jodyhedlund.com/contest/

Tell us a little about your family and your call to write.

I’ve been married for twenty years to my college sweetheart. My husband has been one of my biggest cheerleaders over the years, doing his best to understand and support my writing even in the days when publication was only the whisper of a dream.

I also have five children ranging from 14 down to 5, with a set of twin daughters mixed in to make things more lively. I homeschool my crew, and so my days are spent giving math lessons, spelling lists, and grading tests. In teaching my children, not only have they learned a lot, so have I! One of my favorite subjects to teach is world history, which has been a huge inspiration to me in my writing.

How did you get your first “writing break?”

During the time that I began querying The Preacher’s Bride, Rachelle was a fairly new agent (I think she’d been an agent about a year.) When my query came in, she liked my story and sample chapter and subsequently requested to see the full of my manuscript.

But like most unknown writers, my manuscript went into the TBR slush pile where it languished. However, while waiting for her to get to it, I didn’t sit around idly twirling my thumbs. I worked hard during those months and went on to write another book. I kept building my online presence. And I entered some contests.

After two manuscripts finaled in ACFW’s Genesis contest (one of them The Preacher’s Bride), I re-contacted Rachelle to let her know. She pulled my manuscript to the top of her slush pile, read it, and offered me representation with a couple of days. She went on to land me a three-book contract within a few month’s time.

What do you write and why this genre?

I love reading historicals, so naturally that’s what I’m drawn to write. I’m fascinated with all of the things that happen in other times and places that seem so foreign to us now. I really appreciate when historical facts are woven into books seamlessly so that I’m learning but don’t really realize I am. And I hope that I can do that in my books too.

Do you have any recent contracts and up coming releases?

My second book, The Doctor’s Lady, just hit shelves. This book is inspired by the true-life story of Narcissa Whitman, the first white woman to brave the dangers of overland trail and travel west. In 1836, she married Dr. Whitman, and then the next day left her childhood home and would never return for the purpose of starting a mission among the Nez Perce natives.

It was my hope in this story to bring Narcissa Whitman to life. This heroic woman has often been ignored and at times even disparaged. In reality, she exuded incredible courage to attempt a trip many proclaimed foolishly dangerous. It was called an “unheard-of-journey for females.” Because of her willingness to brave the unknown, she led the way for the many women who would follow in her footsteps in what would later become known as the Oregon Trail

And now for the tough questions…
How do you balance being a mom, wife, and writer?

Actually, I’m not always skilled at balancing all my roles! I found that I do better if I try to live in the moment. For example, when I’m spending time with my children (teaching them or just having fun), I try not worry about my writing or checking emails or going on Twitter. I want to give them my fullest attention. I carve out concentrated times when I can focus on being a mom or focus on my writing (or whatever it is). If I allow myself those focused times, I find that I’m not stressed so much!

Do you think it’s possible to give yourself fully to raising children, homeschooling, writing, and keeping in shape? If not, which one for you has to take a back seat?

No it’s not possible to do it all and do it well. I can’t shoulder all of those full time responsibilities by myself. Fortunately, my husband is excited about my writing career and wants to support me and see me succeed. As my writing career has gained momentum, he’s been willing to evaluate what he can do to help with homeschooling (he teaches the kids a couple of mornings a week so that I can write). And he also fully embraces helping raise our children which allows me to then to retreat to my office on Saturdays for a full day of writing without interruptions.

When do you find the time to write, and do you ever feel like you’re neglecting your children when you write?

Of course, any working mom is going to have to spend time concentrating on her work at the sacrifice of other things in her life. I’m sure if I weren’t writing, I’d have more time to do extra activities with my kids.

But because I spend all day with my children during school days, when my afternoon writing time comes around, my kids are usually ready for a break from me. And I’m ready for a break from them too! Even so, they know I’m available to them for anything. I actually sit in the middle of the kitchen to work in the afternoons so that they can come to me for anything they need.

How do you handle interruptions in your writing life?

I rarely allow anything to derail my writing. I’ve made a commitment to a writing career and to my publisher, so I take my writing time and the work involved very seriously. That means I give myself daily goals, I block in work time as best I can every day, and then I stick to it.

However, invariably, I am interrupted every day, multiple times! Especially during those times when I’m working at my kitchen table! While I try to minimize the interruptions, I’ve learned that I just need to attend to whatever the need is (whether it’s a child needing a snack or the cat getting outside, etc.) and then get back to my writing as soon as possible. In other words, I don’t let the interruptions paralyze me.

What do you do to encourage yourself during those stormy days every homeschooling mom has?

I’ve learned that it helps to surround myself with people who believe in me and what I’m doing. As I mentioned, my husband is very supportive. Whenever I’m having a meltdown, he always looks for ways that he can step in and support me. And my mom is a huge encourager to me too. She prays for me regularly, and she also offers me godly and wise advice that helps keep me focused on God’s plan for my family and writing.

Has there ever been a time God told you to set aside your writing to focus on other areas of your life? If so, how did you handle that?

After the birth of my twins (12 years ago!), God took me off the writing path for quite a number of years. He used that time to strengthen me spiritually, help me mature as a parent, solidify my obedience to him, and enrich me in many ways. When I finally felt the nudge to begin writing, I wanted to make sure he was truly directing me. I believe my writing is richer as a result.

What advice would you give to writing moms who are have their hearts set on publication?

It is possible to juggle being a mom and writing. It’s NOT easy, but it is possible! If we set aside a little bit of time to write every day and make ourselves just sit down and do it, then before we know it we’ll have completed the first chapter, then the first half of the book, and finally we’ll have a finished book in front of us.

My encouragement is to keep writing (and learning about writing!). Don’t stop with the first book. Move on to the next one. And the next one after that. It takes time to not only develop our writing skill but to also find our break-in book.

Jody, you are an inspiration to all writing moms out there and an encouragement to me! Thanks for sharing your experience with us!

Filed Under: Writing Moms & Dads

Writing Mom Gina Holmes and Dry as Rain

August 16, 2011 By Gina Leave a Comment

I remember that ACFW conference several years ago when Gina and I contemplated the situation of our writing journeys, which at the time were at a stand still. We shared about our disappointments and frustrations in our unpublished status and while I don’t exactly remember what we said as we encouraged each other, I do remember the feeling, the bonding we shared as two hopeful authors. Though our writing journeys have taken different paths, I’m excited at her success and even a proud to be the “other Gina,” not eager to correct someone when they mistake me for her! Watch out, G! I plan on catching up to you real soon!

Gina Holmes is the bestselling author of Crossing Oceans and the newly released novel, DRY AS RAIN. She’s the founder of Novel Rocket, (formerly Novel Journey), a registered nurse, wife and mother who makes her home in Southern Virginia. You can learn more about her at www.ginaholmes.com

Welcome Gina!

Your debut novel hit ECPA, Amazon, PW and CBA bestsellers list (some throughout the span of a year!) For several weeks Crossing Oceans was the #1 free kindle download and then stay in the top hundred for a long time.

Beside the commercial success, your book was a finalist in every major Christian book award, including: Christy, ECPA, Retailer’s Choice, Carol Awards, and won RWA’s Inspirational Reader’s Choice and an INSPY. Does having that kind of success put the pressure on for your second book?

I try not to think too much about it. I didn’t expect that kind of success but am very grateful for it. I had a lot of pressure on me on this releasing novel, not because of the success of the first book, but because, unlike the first, I didn’t have all the time in the world to write it. Some books flow smoothly, this one I had to yank out like a bad tooth. I faced multiple rewrites, some of them pretty major, all while trying to promote my all important first novel. I was still working full time, mothering, running Novel Journey (now Novel Rocket) and all of that, so this was a tough tough book for me to produce.

Tell our readers about your latest release, Dry as Rain:

I’m a really bad pitchman so I’ll just repeat the back of the book copy:

Behind every broken vow lies a broken heart.

When Eric and Kyra Yoshida first met, they thought their love would last forever. But like many marriages, theirs has gradually crumbled, one thoughtless comment and misunderstanding at a time, until the ultimate betrayal pushes them beyond reconciliation. Though Eric longs to reunite with Kyra, the only woman he has truly loved, he has no idea how to repair the damage that’s been done.

Then a car accident erases part of Kyra’s memory—including her separation from Eric—and a glimmer of hope rises from the wreckage. Is this a precious opportunity for the fresh start Eric has longed for? Does he even deserve the chance to find forgiveness and win back Kyra’s heart . . . or will the truth blow up in his face, shattering their last hope for happiness? A richly engaging story of betrayal and redemption, Dry as Rain illuminates with striking emotional intensity the surprising truth of what it means to forgive.

Tell our readers about your latest release, Dry as Rain:

I’m a really bad pitchman so I’ll just repeat the back of the book copy:

Behind every broken vow lies a broken heart.

You can read the first chapter HERE.

“Holmes grabs the reader with a unique storyline about infidelity and what it truly means to forgive after betrayal. By looking at the situation from a different angle, the author provides a great deal of food for thought and contemplation.” RT Book Reviews – September, 2011

This novel feels so much different than Crossing Oceans. Why did you choose to take such a different path?

I didn’t intend to write something completely different and I think it feels that way because of the characters telling the story. In Crossing Oceans, Jenny was our narrator and she was a melancholy, all woman sort.

In Dry as Rain, we have Eric, who is a man’s man and doesn’t think in flowery language and descriptions so it would have been wrong to write him that way. While both books have a heavy subject matter, Crossing Oceans was much more so. You can’t get heavier than dying, so it was bound to be more emotional, no matter how I wrote the next book.

But, my genre seems to be relational drama which both are and I like to pepper in a quirky cast and that’s true of both books.

You took a lot of chances in this book. First writing first person from a male’s perspective, secondly to have the protagonist someone who does a lot of things that aren’t very Christianly, like cheating on his wife, drinking, lying, etc. Are you afraid this might hurt your sales in the Christian market?

Afraid? No. Concerned, sure. While I don’t personally have a problem with Eric drinking a beer, the rest I have a problem with too. The thing is Eric’s a nominal Christian at the beginning of the book, lukewarm about his faith like many who call themselves followers of Christ. This is his journey though and he doesn’t end up where he begins. I wanted to tell the story as truthfully as I could and at the end of the day let the chips fall where they may.

What happened to your long time website, Novel Journey?

www.noveljourney.blogspot.com is now www.novelrocket.com You can get to it by either address but we decided on an overhaul because we wanted to drop the blogspot address and just have a dot com. The guy who owned Novel Journey didn’t return our emails to sell so we had to do something a little different. This turned out to be a good thing maybe because we’d been chewing on broadening the site for some time. We’ve got some exciting changes now, the most notable is the addition of “Rocket Pages” a sort of Craig’s List for writers to find the services they need to launch and sustain their career.

What’s going on with you personally?

Well, I’m blissfully married, mom to two, stepmom to three, and owner of 2 dogs and a fish. I bought a guitar and hope to start fiddling with that soon and just writing a lot. Nothing too exciting over here but that’s the way I like it. I’m the happiest I’ve been in my life. I’ve accomplished many of the dreams and goals I’d hoped to and I always tell my husband, if I died today, I’d feel I lived and full and rewarding life. Not that I’m looking to die just yet.

What are you working on now?

I can’t give the title yet as that’s a work in progress but it’s a story very close to my heart. I’m more excited about this one than anything I’ve ever written. Hopefully my publisher agrees and you see it on the stands in the next year or so. That’s really all I can say for now.

Tell us something we don’t know about you.

I’ll tell you a few. I thought I was afraid of heights until I bungee-jumped and loved it. I’d love to skydive for the first time in the next year, white water raft and get at least a little skill on the guitar. My husband is a talented songwriter. My kids are the sweetest in the world, (yes, the world!), and I love to get my hands dirty. That should do it. Thanks for having me!

Filed Under: Writing Moms & Dads

Writer…Interrupted: Is Balance Possible?

April 27, 2011 By Gina Leave a Comment

What better way to gain wisdom in our writing journeys than to learn from others who are a little further ahead than we are!! Over the years I’ve complied hundreds of interviews and will share a couple of questions a week from different authors in hopes than the road ahead for you and me will be brightened by their wisdom!

How do you balance being a mom, wife, and writer?

Some days I don’t do it all. Some days I’m on top of my game. I have a friend in California who keeps saying, “I look at you and I don’t see how you do it all.” I tell her, “No, you don’t look at me. You hear me over the phone. If you saw my house you would see I don’t do it all!” Everything falls apart when I’m not close to God. I’ll go through a season where I put off my daily prayers and Bible reading, and I can feel it. My focus strays and everything comes unwound. -Rene Gutteridge, 2006, best selling author and mom of tw0

I really try very hard to carry “office hours.” That helps me schedule. I envision my work like anyone else’s work. I have a boss (me…or sometimes it’s a character bossing me!), I have hours, I have days off, I have vacation, sick days, etc. I try as much as possible to not work on weekends, which has been much more achievable now that the kids are older. I also keep a very detailed calendar. And the most important thing is my online Scrabble game. Oh wait…I think that’s should be filed under distraction…Hey, it keeps me sane, what can I say? -Rene Gutteridge, 2011, best selling author and mom of tw0

I’m not sure I’ve got this figured out yet. Right now, it means that I don’t get a lot of sleep. Since February of this year, I’ve been home primarily with the kids. I love that flexibility and ability to pour into my children. I teach an occasional class at Purdue, still work with some of my legal clients, and write. Most of the time I have the ability to sque eze these around my commitments with the children. And Eric and I squeeze in the occasional date night, too. -Cara Putman, 2008, author and mother of 3

When I’m teaching, I have someone come to our house to watch the kids. I have to leave by 7:30, and it keeps things simpler for them and me. I also have her stay a few extra hours so I have time to write and run errands. My husband and I decided that as I got more contracts I would need some help to have pockets of time that weren’t in the middle of the night to work. That has helped though I don’t have anyone right now. I also try to minimize some elements…for example, I love to speak, but right now don’t speak more than once a month. It just isn’t the time in our family for me to do much traveling for speaking. Maybe someday, but I’m trying to be aware of where we are as a family. -Cara Putman, 2011, author and mother of 4

It’s a constant juggling act. Seriously. My children and husband come first, of course. I do my best not to write when I should be spending time with them. We homeschool, so that’s our first priority in the morning. After school, then lunch, I shoo my kids off to run off energy, play, etc. I set up my laptop where I can see them in the yard and I go to work. Of course, there are numerous interruptions, but I’m blessed with the ability to work through the confusion…ha. My kids also go to an after school/karate program twice a week which gives me several hours in the afternoon to write while they have fun with peers.-Lynette Eason, 2008, author and mother of tw0

I do try to escape sometimes. Get out on my own and just be alone. I desperately need that “me” time. I also like to read. Sitting down and just reading a book for pleasure is something I rarely have time for so when I get a chance, I take it. -Lynette Eason, 2011, author and mother of two

Do you think it’s possible to give yourself fully to raising children, homeschooling, writing, and keeping in shape? If not, which one for you has to take a back seat?

Yes, depending on how you describe fully. I love keeping in shape, and usually feel better when I have been exercising. Homeschooling is a great way to focus on my children, and then not feel guilty when there are other things I need to do. I know that I’ve poured into them for a period of time that day, and it’s okay to expect them to entertain themselves sometimes during the day. However, the fact remains that the bulk of my writing is done after the kids are in bed. That makes for some late nights, and makes it so important that my husband fully supports me in these efforts. He’s my biggest cheerleader, with the kids running close seconds! -Cara Putman, 2008, author and mother of 3

Um…yes, I do, I just don’t. I pretty much do the first three, but staying in shape is the one that’s taken a back seat.-Lynette Eason, 2008, author and mother of two

Is balance possible? According to these writing moms, yes! I think the key is finding out what works for you! Add your voice to the mix. How do you balance life with the pursuit of your dreams?

Filed Under: Writing Moms & Dads

Writer…Interrupted: Author Cara Putman

April 18, 2011 By Gina Leave a Comment

When I began seriously pursuing publication almost seven years ago, I marveled at all the writing moms that seemed to do it all. Homeschool, parent, keep house and WRITE! If they could do it, so could I. But the biggest question I had was HOW?

Over the last few years I’ve collected over one hundred interviews from moms and dad living their dream. In the spirit of this blog, I will be posting some old interviews that have really encouraged me over the years and highlighting new successes. Those who’ve defied gravity and lived to tell about it!

If you’re a recently published, contracted mom (or dad) or someone who’s not given up on the dream, leave a comment. I’d love share your story! – Gina

I knew Cara when…when she was a new writer and critique partner, when she landed her first contract at ACFW, when the first book she wrote in our crit book got picked up! She’s an enigma and inspiration to me! I know you’ll learn lots from her!

Tell us a little about your family and your call to write.

I’ve been married to Eric for almost 12 years – Yikes! I don’t feel old enough – and console myself that we got married young. We have two children. Abigail is 7 and in second grade. Jonathan is 4 and in preschool/kindergarten. We are also expecting any day, so life is full.

Congratulations! I know this has been one of the other compelling desires of your heart!

How did you get your first “writing break?”

My first writing break came when I met Colleen Coble in April 2005. She encouraged my dream. The second break came when I went to the ACFW conference in September 2005. At that conference I started relationships which have led to all four of my current book contracts.

How do you balance being a mom, wife, and writer?

I’m not sure I’ve got this figured out yet. Right now, it means that I don’t get a lot of sleep. Since February of this year, I’ve been home primarily with the kids. I love that flexibility and ability to pour into my children. I teach an occasional class at Purdue, still work with some of my legal clients, and write. Most of the time I have the ability to squeeze these around my commitments with the children. And Eric and I squeeze in the occasional date night, too.

Do you think it’s possible to give yourself fully to raising children, homeschooling, writing, and keeping in shape? If not, which one for you has to take a back seat?

When do you find the time to write, and do you ever feel like you’re neglecting your children when you write?

The great majority of my writing time is at night. And I jealously guard that time. I hardly watch any TV anymore, because I need to be writing during that time. But sometimes when I’m under deadline, I also have to find time during the day to write. I’ve been blessed to have great friends and a supportive mother-in-law who will come watch the kids for several hours. Then I know that they aren’t neglected, but are with people they enjoy spending time with when I’m writing. I do try to keep those times to a minimum. However, this summer when I was under competing deadlines, my dad gave me great advice. He knows how independent I am, and he encouraged me to ask for help early before I got stressed. I had a neighbor girl come over one morning a week to play with the kids while I wrote for two or three hours. It made a huge difference, because I never got overly stressed.

How do you handle interruptions in your writing life?

I try to be gracious…but…I’m human. I can get incredibly focused, and Eric will let me know when I’m neglecting the kids by saying I’ll be there in five minutes and it turns into 20. This summer the kids knew exactly where to look when I disappeared. They’d make a beeline for the office. I’m praying for better grace in this area.

How do you get back into the flow of writing after you’ve been interrupted?

Music! Seriously, to travel back to 1944, I pop in a CD of songs that got us through the war. Then if I’m writing contemporary, I’ll turn to Carrie Underwood or something similar in my iPod. Music helps a ton. And I also review what I wrote to get back in the flow. Or I’ll stop purposefully before the end of a chapter or scene so that it’s easier to get back in my train of thought.

What do you do to encourage yourself during those stormy days every homeschooling mom has?

Call my husband. There have been days when he has come home from work to deal with an attitude issue. That kind of support is huge! I also know that this is what we are supposed to be doing as a family at this time. There’s great assurance in that.

How do you position yourself to HEAR God’s voice when all the noises of life are swirling around you?

I surround myself with people with who I can be honest and vulnerable. When my ears get distracted by life, they call me on it and remind me of what God says. I also spend a lot of time in praise and worship, and try to have at least one regular Bible study going at a time. He often speaks to me from several directions through those studies.

Has your writing schedule changed since your first contract?

Not really. The way that the schedule has changed is that I now do 90% of my writing under contract. The rest of the time is spent on new proposals. So that means I now have deadlines, some of which collide, that I have to hit. Fortunately, I’ve always worked well under deadline, but it can get crazy!

You’re expecting a baby anytime and have two little ones at home whom you homeschool. How do you think this new little one will affect your writing, volunteer work, lawyering and teaching, did I miss anything else ? Or maybe a better question to ask is how do you plan on balancing it all?

I’m not sure yet. I start teaching at Purdue again, during the baby’s due week. Since we’ve already spent a few hours at the hospital, I’m really hoping the baby comes soon! But one of the keys is that I’m learning to ask for help. I already have a gal lined up to come watch the kids at our house two mornings a week during the summer while I teach. I’ll try to write a couple hours those mornings, too, since the oldest two will be having fun with her.

The hard part for me is keeping a focus on my kids and making them a priority when I have deadlines looming. I pray I’m getting better, but keep that foremost in my mind. I’m also asking God what I should step away from…that’s a hard one because I enjoy everything I do. But reality is something will probably have to change. And I want to hear from Him first.

I know my third child pushed me over the edge, productivity wise. I was someone who always showed up 15 minutes early, but with my third I was lucky to make it on time. And with four kids, I’m lucky if I remember an appointment. 15 minutes early has now turned into 15 minutes late. Have you considered how an extra person to dress, feed and care for may affect your routine and writing? Is this something you’re planning for or are you just going to take it one day at a time?

Because I’m under double deadline this summer, I’ll have to stay disciplined. Fortunately, I’ve usually been good at that. So yes, I have an eye on the changes adding a person to the mix will bring, but I’m counting on the fact that my 7 and 4 year old can do many things themselves.

I’m afraid of writing under a deadline. Afraid I’ll loose the joy of writing. Afraid my work won’t be as good because it will be rushed, and afraid my priorities will be skewed. Do you ever feel this way and how do you handle this?

Writing under deadline is different from when you can do it with as much lead time as you want to give it. Since I’ve been focused on publication from the beginning, I often gave myself artificial deadlines to keep me moving. The change now that I have “real” deadlines is that I have to write whether or not I feel like it. My latest book, Captive Dreams, was work for the first month. For some reason, I struggled to get into the characters’ heads and enjoy the plot. I was afraid the book was terrible. Fortunately, I sent it to my first readers, and they really liked it, so I kept moving forward. Then as I read back through it, I realized how much I liked it. But it definitely felt like work occasionally.

What would you tell writing moms and dads looking for that agent who will sell their first book?

Attend writer’s conferences. Nine times out of ten that is how you will find an agent and be able to determine if your personality and vision meshes with theirs. I met Karen through one of her clients, but actually met her in person before we signed. There were other agents I was interested in, but once I met Karen face-to-face, I knew we would be a good fit. And don’t forget to pray for the right match.

What will do if the next contract never comes?

Panic. Seriously, God put me in a position for about six weeks earlier this spring where I didn’t have a contract. There was lots in the works, but no contract. I floundered and had to come back to a point of relinquishing my writing to him. I tried to learn from the last period like that and relax and enjoy the break. With my personality, I think God wanted to ask me if I was relying on Him or me. Honestly, I needed that time to work on some proposals. But it was still very hard. However, that’s writing. It is cyclical, and if I truly want to make this a career I need to accept that there will be time periods without a contract and trust God in those times, too.

Thanks so much for doing this interview! I know my questions are rarely about books, but they’re questions I’m searching for answers in my own life!

Thanks for having me! Great questions as usual. And right where I’m at right now

Stop by tomorrow to find out where Cara is now in her writing life and if her perspective has changed now that she’s a mom of four!! And for a chance to win one of Cara’s books!!!

Filed Under: Writing Moms & Dads Tagged With: balance, homeschooling, writer mom

Author Susan Meissner, NOW!

April 12, 2011 By Gina Leave a Comment

What’s been happening in your career and family since our last interview in 2008?
The last two years I’ve had two new books hit bookstore shelves, White Picket Fences in 2009 and Lady in Waiting in 2010. In White Picket Fences I explored the idea that just because a family looks like they have the perfect existence – white picket fence and all that – it doesn’t mean their lives are perfect on the inside. The “perfect” family lives in the same broken world as the rest of us. If they don’t acknowledge and deal with their own flaws, they will sooner or later step on broken glass and someone can seriously get hurt. With Lady in Waiting, I dovetailed a modern day story of a woman named Jane with the true story of Lady Jane Grey, who was Queen of England for just nine days. Jane Grey’s story is compelling in lots of ways; it was a lovely challenge to bring a contemporary story alongside hers.

Is life busier or easier now that your kids are practically grown?
I am finding that your children still need you when they become adults; they just need you in a different way – especially in those 20-something years before they marry and start families of their own. I don’t have any married children yet so in some ways, they still feel like they are mine – and I care for them like they still are! Life seems still very busy!

Besides writing and parenting, what other responsibilities take up your time and energy?
I work parttime at my church as Small Groups director and I write curriculum every week based on the sermon. It’s helpful to keep my nonfiction writing skills in play. As a novelist, you never know when you’re going to need them! I also mentor a group of writers at my church and am on the board of the San Diego Christian Writers Guild.

Are you any better at balancing you life now then you were in 2008 (our last interview?)
I wish I could say I have the whole balance thing figured out. I would have to say I haven’t learned more about balance and boundaries in the last two years, but I have learned more about living life with open palms, ready to release anything God would have me let go of and ready to grab onto anything He clearly wants to toss my way. It’s interesting; when you learn how to have hands that ready to release and receive, the balance thing kind of takes care of itself.

What are some practical things you do to balance all the areas of your life?
Keeping my eyes off the marketplace has been a struggle for me but I have realized that when I simply concentrate on the job of writing the best I possibly can, I can love what I do more. I am not a born marketer; I do the best I can with the skill set I have. I also have to be content with the place God has chosen for me to occupy in this marketplace. That place may or may not change. I may never be a bestseller or be able to quit the day job, but worrying about that prospect robs me of balance quicker than anything. I need to concentrate on writing my absolute best. That is something I can actually control.

What do you do to encourage yourself during those days you feel less than adequate?
I remind myself that what God has called me to do he has equipped me to do. That is true of everyone. There are days I feel like a hack, when I stare at the blinking cursor on an electronic field of white and all I can do is mumble pathetic prayers for inspiration. I have come to learn God shows up when I take the first step, when I begin to write and keep writing even when the first words seem truly lame. As I plow ahead anyway, in half-confidence, the inspiration usually comes. But I have to take the first step into fog before I see clearly the path ahead.

What would you tell writing moms and dads looking to sell their first book in today’s market?
Today’s market is changing. Ten years ago e-readers were the stuff of dreams and self-published books were mostly pathetic ugly things only a desperate writer’s mother would buy. These days e-publishing is the new hot thing and self-published books are looking better than ever. My advice to a new writer who wants to break in is consider that it may take longer than it used to get picked up by a royalty-paying house. The depressed economy and the advent of e-book publishing and better self-publishing options means they take fewer risks at once. If a new writer doesn’t want to wait and decides to e-publish or self-publish on paper, do pay an editor to give your book a thorough going-over. My books with WaterBrook are edited four times before they are published. I love my editors. They always find weaknesses I don’t see. A self-published book that isn’t professionally edited always reads like a book that wasn’t edited.

Do you have any books coming out this year?
The book coming out in October is called A Sound Among the Trees and it features a Civil War thread running through it. It’s about a Fredericksburg house and the family that lives in it. This house was there in Fredericksburg when Northern troops nearly burned the town to the ground and it’s there still, in the present day. Rumor has it the house is haunted by the ghost of the female spy who lived there, but the current matriarch, the great-great granddaughter of that woman, believes it is not the ghost of her great-great grandmother that haunts the house; the house haunts the house. It can’t get over what happened inside it. Houses are supposed to protect and shelter and this house couldn’t do that. What this family must learn is that we all of us must learn to live with the past; it shaped us and shapes us still, depending on what we do with the lessons it taught us. I love the cover for this one. I will be posting it soon!

Do you feel like you’ve found your writing niche? If so, how did it come about?
I like combining a contemporary story with a historical thread. It came about somewhat by accident. When I wrote The Shape of Mercy, which dovetails a contemporary story with the Salem Witch Trials, I found I enjoyed that story construction very much. Readers seem to like it, so I am sticking with it for awhile.

I love that about your stories!

What will do if the next contract never comes?
Everybody needs to know that our purpose in life doesn’t change just because our role changes. I am passionate about communicating truth. If my role as a communicator changes from having a book contract to not having one, I fill have to find how my status quo will allow me to communicate truth. What I am wired to do, I am probably supposed to do. I think God, if I ask him, will show me what he would want me to do next.

What are the top three things on your Bucket List and when do you think you’ll get to pursue them?

1. Go to the Orient.

2. Learn to play the cello.

3. Visit Manhattan in the spring.

I think I can swing April in Manhattan someday, and if I save a ton of quarters, maybe I can see the Great Wall, but I don’t know if I will have the time and talent to master the cello. But it’s still on my list!

How fun! My son plays the Cello and I grew up 30 miles from Manhattan!

What would you tell other moms and dads who have given up on their dreams?
I know sometimes it seems like it’s easier to give up on a dream than to pursue it, especially when the odds aren’t in your favor. But that’s what dreams are. They are the things you pursue. And sometimes the dream you ditch is one God gave you, so when you toss it away, you toss away something wonderful God had in mind for you. It may be that he never intended you to have that dream fulfilled, he intended you to become something you weren’t before, simply because you chased after it. It was the journey to pursue the dream that he wanted you to be on, the actual dream itself maybe was incidental.

You can still give up if you are bone weary, but watch how you give UP. Lift your hands. Up. Release your dream to God. Give it UP to him. If he gives it back to you, then you will know it meant for you to have it.

Well said!

Filed Under: Writing Moms & Dads Tagged With: Susan Meissner, Writing mom interview

Writer Mom Susan Meissner, Then!

April 11, 2011 By Gina Leave a Comment

Tell us a little about your family and your call to write.
I’m married to Bob, a pastor, and we’re the parents of four wonderful people who range in age from 15 to 22. I’ve always had the itch to write; as far back as I can remember. But I didn’t do a whole lot with that itch until all my kids were in school. I put off for a long time writing anything I would call intensely creative because I was afraid I would end up writing it for no one. I didn’t dream very big back then. I dream bigger these days!

How did you get your first “writing break?”
I had been working as an editor at a small town newspaper and was as restless as all get out. I had a good job in the publishing industry, but I wasn’t writing fiction and that’s what I wanted to write more than anything. I quit that job in 2002, wrote my first book in 10 weeks and then started looking for a publisher. That took almost a year. I happened to post a proposal on Christian Manuscripts Submissions.com and someone from Harvest House Publishers happened to see it. They published that book, Why the Sky is Blue, in 2004.

Wow! That is a total dream come true!

What do you write and why this genre?
Fiction reveals so much about human character. Within the world of story you can ponder everything and anything; why we do what we do, what makes us weep, laugh, shudder, sing; what motivates us, inspires us, frightens us, tutors us. You can express the love of God and the power of that love in so many ways through story. I think that’s why Jesus often told parables.

And now for the tough questions…

How do you balance being a mom, wife, writer, and working?
Balance, to me, is actually a word for ballet dancers, trapeze artists and tire stores. I don’t know that I’ve figured out how to make everything stay still without wobbling. But I do know that everything I want to do well has a better chance of success if I nurture my relationship with God first. If I stay connected to the wellspring of life that is in Jesus, I have the stamina, creativity and grace to handle all those roles. Priorities always matter when you need to divvy up time. My family has to be number two after God. And the part-time job is a responsibility I’ve taken on with the full knowledge that it will take 20 to 25 of my best hours. But when I look at the hours I have left to write, there REALLY are quite a few left! TV, email, blogging, empty reading – all these things are time-stealers. I use them as rewards for having written my quota for the day. And actually, when I’ve given my family my best, they in turn cheer me on in my writing.

Do you think it’s possible to give yourself fully to raising children, writing, working, and keeping in shape? If not, which one for you has to take a back seat?
I’ve seen it done by other women. I know it can be done. But yikes. Keeping in shape just isn’t my favorite thing to do. I hate the hamster wheel. I don’t mind tasking my body physically but I hate repetitious exercise. Chasing a loose dog is purposeful exercise. So is weeding a garden or scrubbing a floor or playing tag on the beach with the kids. But jogging, crunches, leg lifts? Bleh.

When do you find the time to write, and do you ever feel like you’re neglecting your children when you write?
Well, the thing is, I didn’t start writing in earnest until the kids started school. I still have one in high school and I do try to be done with writing (on the days I am home writing) by the time he gets home at 3. But I start when he leaves and I don’t do anything else until he gets home. I used to mope about that. But I’ve realized when he comes home and I start doing things around the house and around him (instead of being holed up in my little writing corner with the door shut) I can THINK about where I had to leave my characters when the clock struck three. I imagine the next scene, the next conversation. I think it through, mentally trying out different scenarios while I’m driving him to a practice or helping him with an art project or making dinner. That way, when I can get back to the manuscript, I’ve already decided what will work and what won’t. Down time is marinating time.

How do you handle interruptions in your writing life?
I think of them as marinating times! Or times when the yeast is rising. When you must walk away from the keyboard physically, just remember you don’t have to walk away from it mentally. Go to the next place in your head.

How do you get back into the flow of writing after you’ve been interrupted?
Okay. That can be tricky. I re-read where I left off. I close my eyes and see the scene in my mind. I smell it, taste it, feel it. You have to tell yourself it’s easy to climb back in. If you tell yourself it’s hard, by golly it will be.

What do you do to encourage yourself during those stormy days every writing mom has?
You know that saying “This too will pass?” Don’t strangle the next person who says that to you. It’s true. Storms move on. Sunny days follow. You won’t always be standing in the rain with a broken umbrella. And you won’t always have little kids. They grow up. And you will suddenly have all kinds of time to write. You really will wonder how the heck did they grow so fast.

How do you position yourself to HEAR God’s voice when all the noises of life are swirling around you?
You have to place yourself in an environment where you are not distracted by all those other noises so that you can find your center and operate from there. For lots of us, that time is at dawn when you’d rather be sleeping. You can do it late at night, too. But when I save my quiet time for bedtime, I fall asleep in a lovely devoted fashion and remember nothing the next day. Not a very good way to hear the voice of God. Honestly, the best time for quiet listening to God is before the wee ones get up. That’s just the way it is. Get used to it. When they are older they will sleep longer. Teenagers are notoriously great sleepers. You won’t always have to get up with the roosters but right now you may have to. Hey, it will pass. . .

If you do feel your priorities slipping, what do you do to get back on track?
I have to just say “Halt!” and let everything just stand still for a second. Usually I am a little weepy at that point. Or grumpy. Or both. I have to get back to a place of calm assurance in my relationship to God. All the other priorities hinge on that one. If I can get that one back to where it belongs, the rest find their place. Amazing how that works. . .

Has there ever been a time God told you to set aside your writing to focus on other areas of your life? If so, how did you handle that?
Not yet. I can see where someday He might. I think it’s a good idea for all writers to consider that a sabbatical has been planned for them sometime down the road so that when it falls upon you, you won’t resist it. Breaks from intense creativity can re-charge us, I think.

Did you ever feel like you’ve “missed” God in regards to writing, that maybe you should be doing something else?
Sometimes I wonder if I am writing for the right audience but God hasn’t opened other doors, at least none that I can see. I am always on the lookout, though. Someday I’d like to write something for the general market that has the breath of God all over it.

What advice would you give to writing moms who are have their hearts set on publication?
Don’t set your heart on anything. If you are a believer, your heart isn’t yours. And the plain truth is, getting published is a very strange mix of unique talent and perfect timing. You can only control your own unique talent. You can’t control perfect timing. That’s up to providence and the quirks of the market. It’s okay, I think, to have big dreams. And I think it’s admirable to put your best effort into your writing endeavors and to pursue every lead and angle to get your work in print. But don’t put your heart there. It’s not where it belongs. Do what you can, do it well, leave the results to a God who loves you.

Thanks for letting me chat with you today! I had a blast.

Thanks for coming. You’ve been an inspiration!

Filed Under: Writing Moms & Dads Tagged With: Susan Meissner, Writing mom interview

Writing Mom Lynette Eason, NOW!

April 5, 2011 By Gina Leave a Comment

What’s been happening in your career and family since our last interview? Are you still homeschooling?
In the last five years, I’ve written more books, carpooled more kids and traveled to a lot of places. LOL. I am still homeschooling, but only my son who is ten. My daughter decided she preferred to go to school.

Is life busier or easier now that your kids are older?
A little of both actually. They have their own busy schedule, of course, with piano, drums, karate, play practice, and just hanging out with friends. But it’s a fun stage and we’re enjoying it! I just take my laptop wherever we go and if I get a chance to work, I do.

Do you involve your children in your writing?
Sometimes. Now that my daughter is older, I’m going to see if she wants to help on some of the never ending marketing that needs to be done. Of course I’ll have to pay her. <G> And I take them to booksigning sometimes. My daughter is a great little sales person. She tells people why they should buy my books—and because she’s read them and talk knowledgeably about them, people listen! It’s great.

Besides writing and parenting, what other responsibilities take up your time and energy?
Writing and parenting are pretty much it. I’ve sort of cut everything else out of my schedule. Because I write so much, I want to devote the rest of my time to my children. I figure when they’re older and more independent, I will be able to add other responsibilities back into my life.

What are some practical things you do to balance all the areas of your life?
I do try to escape sometimes. Get out on my own and just be alone. I desperately need that “me” time. I also like to read. Sitting down and just reading a book for pleasure is something I rarely have time for so when I get a chance, I take it.

What do you do to encourage yourself during those days you feel less than adequate?
Wow, great question. I’ve actually been feeling this way lately. And I know in my head it’s a lie from the pit, but sometimes I’m tempted to believe it. I just have to pray and remind myself that God is in control. I’m in this season of my life for a reason and he’s called me to do what I’m doing. I have to lean on Him, trust Him and be willing to follow Him wherever He leads. The rest doesn’t matter. My feelings don’t matter. What matters is God. Reminding myself of that helps. A lot.

What would you tell writing moms and dads looking to sell their first book in today’s market?
Learn the craft. Spend time at writers conferences. Join ACFW and ask all of the writer questions you have burning in your head. And don’t give up.

Do you have any books coming out this year?
Oh my. Yes, I have FIVE books coming out this year. Crazy, huh? January 2011, I had MISSING come out with Love Inspired. In May 2011, book number three in the Women of Justice Series, A KILLER AMONG US, comes out along with THREAT OF EXPOSURE, book 5 in the continuity series I wrote with five other authors. In August, AGENT UNDERCOVER releases with Love Inspired and then in December, HOLIDAY HIDEOUT will release. Also with Love Inspired Suspense.

What will do if the next contract never comes?
Find a job, I suppose. I figure if the next contract never comes, God is ready for me to move on. I’ll probably still write, but for my own pleasure rather than for publication.

What are the top three things on your Bucket List and when do you think you’ll get to pursue them?

I want to see more of the world, other countries.

I want to see at least one book made into a movie.

I would like to live in another country one day.

And I have no idea when I’ll get to pursue all of that. In God’s timing.

Me too, on all three! Italy is my country of choice

What would you tell other moms and dads who have given up on their dreams?
To ask themselves why they’ve given up? Because it’s too hard? That’s no excuse. Anything worthwhile is tough. Getting published in this day and age, with the economy the way it is, is a very hard thing, but it’s not impossible. Whatever your dreams, never give up, pray a lot and listen to God. If you’ve given up what you thought was your dream, ask God to give you a new one and then go after it with everything in you! Does that make sense??

Thanks so much for having me! I would love for readers to come visit, stop by my website at www.lynetteeason.com or send me an email at lynetteeason@lynetteeason.com

Also, I would like to mention that I’m starting a radio show through www.blogtalkradio.com. The show is called The Red Herring: All About Suspense. I will answer writing question, give writing advice and talk about how to get your manuscript in shape to send to an agent or an editor. Right now, it’s only 15 minutes long every Monday at 9:00PM. If I get enough listeners and there’s enough interest, I’d love to expand it. But here’s how you find me.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lynetteeason

Instructions about how to call in are right on the website along with the number.

Sounds great! Thanks so much for stopping by!

Thanks so much for having me! It’s been a blast!

Filed Under: Writing Moms & Dads Tagged With: balance, dreams, Writing mom interview

Writing and Homeschool Mom: Lynette Eason, Then

April 4, 2011 By Gina Leave a Comment

If you’re a recently published, contracted mom (or dad) or someone who’s not given up on the dream, leave a comment. I’d love share your story!

2008 interview

Tell us a little about your family and your call to write.

My husband is a professional musician/professional fundraiser for Christian radio stations. We have two children who keep me busy and constantly on the go with all of our activities and homeschooling.

As for the call to write, I have always loved the printed word. I aced High School and College English but never felt the need to actually write a book until my daughter was almost 6 months old. That’s when I started. I’ve always WANTED to write one, but never felt the NEED to write one until that point in my life. So, I got on the computer and just started writing. Eight years later, God is allowing my dream to become reality. It’s a very surreal and awesome thing.

How did you get your first “writing break?”

I would say my first writing break came in the form of my “mentor”, Dee Henderson. And I put mentor in quotes because she was never officially my mentor, she just answered any and all questions I had about writing. She really cut my time learning the basics in half, if not more. She also edited my entire first manuscript (one that was completely awful, but she turned it into a wonderful learning experience).

And now for the tough questions… Oh boy…okay, I’m ready.

How do you balance being a mom, wife, and writer?

Do you think it’s possible to give yourself fully to raising children, homeschooling, writing, and keeping in shape? If not, which one for you has to take a back seat?

Um…yes, I do, I just don’t. I pretty much do the first three, but staying in shape is the one that’s taken a back seat.

When do you find the time to write, and do you ever feel like you’re neglecting your children when you write?

I write when I can fit it in. Sometimes I get surprised by a block of time due to my children going over to a friend’s house for the afternoon or my mother-in-law or mother offers to keep them. Those days I write like crazy and have been known to get up to 4,000 words down. I also write after they’re in the bed asleep. So, no, I definitely do not feel like I’m neglecting them. I spend so much time with my children, I don’t think I could ever consider doing something for myself a couple of hours a day as being neglectful.

How do you handle interruptions in your writing life?

I just try to go with the flow and know that while I’m in God’s will, He’s going to provide the time to write. The interruptions are expected, even welcomed sometimes, so like I said, I just try to go with it.

How do you get back into the flow of writing after you’ve been interrupted?

You know, I don’t think I ever really get out of the flow of writing. The story is always in my head, the characters are constantly in the background, so even when I’m cooking supper, or answering questions, cleaning house (which is a rare occurrence), doing whatever my kids need me to do, I never really have any trouble just picking up where I left off. It’s weird, I know, but that’s me. J

What do you do to encourage yourself during those stormy days every homeschooling mom has?

I just tell myself, this too shall pass! Ha. And sometimes, if the day is too stormy, we put away the books and do something fun. Or take the books to a different location like the library. Or we do school at night. That’s the beauty of homeschooling, you don’t have to follow a rigid schedule and can always take a break and catch up later. If the problem is me and I need a break, I either call my husband and tell him I need some alone time and expect it at his earliest convenience, or I call my mom and ask her to keep the kids for me while I regroup. If none of the above is available, we go to the library or just go do something fun like play at Chick-Fil-A!

How do you position yourself to HEAR God’s voice when all the noises of life are swirling around you?

I have to admit I have to work on this. It usually happens either late at night or early in the morning when everything is quiet and I finally have a chance to sit down and process “stuff”. And then I just start talking to God, praying, seeking His face, His will, etc. And then I just sit and or start reading His word. It’s at that point that I’m able to glean what He wants to say to me.

If you do feel your priorities slipping, what do you do to get back on track?

Oh, this is a daily thing. I have my priorities and I truly try to keep them in order, but I’m human and things slip through the cracks. When I realize what’s happening, I back up and go, okay, I need to reassess and regroup. I pray a lot during the day, too. Ha.

Has there ever been a time God told you to set aside your writing to focus on other areas of your life? If so, how did you handle that?

Nope, I’ve never had this happen to me. That’s not to say it won’t happen sometime in the future. I just pray that if/when God tells me to do it, I’ll behave like a grown up and not pout about it or get an attitude about it. J Seriously, if God tells me to do it, I think I’m a mature enough Christian to say that I’ll do it. No, I may not like it, but I do know for a fact that God knows best and I’ll be much happier following His direction.

Did you ever feel like you’ve “missed” God in regards to writing, that maybe you should be doing something else?

No, I can honestly say I’m doing exactly what I’m supposed to be doing at this time in my life. I’m a wife, a mom and an author. (Along with all the other hats moms wear.) And I’m content to be where I am. That is not to say I don’t have ambitions and don’t have any more goals to accomplish because I’ve been published. No way! I just mean I’m secure where I am now, but look forward to what God’s got in mind for the rest of the journey and where He plans to take me next…J

What advice would you give to writing moms who are have their hearts set on publication?

Don’t give up. Keep focused. Keep your priorities straight. And when you mess up, get rejected, discouraged, and feel like quitting, pick yourself up, take it to God and get back in the game. Also, network with other published authors. Learn something new every day about writing if possible. And if your husband or other family understands your passion, then get ‘em to babysit! Also, don’t feel guilty about spending money on someone to clean your house, babysit your kids for a few hours, etc. You NEED this time. Consider the money an investment in your future and your career. Your sanity (and probably your kids) will thank you.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Thank you so much for allowing me to be here! I love to share about writing, and encouraging others in their journey. I also love the opportunity to give the credit to God. He’s such an awesome Heavenly Father and I just pray we can keep our eyes on Him and realize that without Him, we would have no reason to write. Again, thank you!

Come back tomorrow for a follow up interview with Lynette, two and half years later. Have her thoughts and views on balancing family, faith and career changed?

Filed Under: Writing Moms & Dads Tagged With: balance, homeschooling, Writing mom interview

Best Selling Author Rene Gutteridge, Now

March 28, 2011 By Gina Leave a Comment

If you’re a recently published, contracted mom (or dad) or someone who’s not given up on the dream, leave a comment. I’d love share your story!

Check out my interview with Rene from 2006

Rene is the author of seventeen novels, including her latest suspense releases, POSSESSION and LISTEN, from Tyndale House Publishers Some of her comedy titles from WaterBrook/Multnomah Publishers include The BOO SERIES: Boo, Boo Who, Boo Hiss, Boo Humbug and THE OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS SERIES; (Scoop, Snitch, Skid). Another very popular comedy title is MY LIFE AS A DOORMAT, a Women of Faith selection for 2006, from Thomas Nelson.

For the latest information on Rene’s up coming releases visit her webiste www.renegutteridge.com

What’s been happening career wise since 2006?

Well, there was a recession! And that was difficult to struggle through. God has been gracious, as I’ve been able to continually work, but it wasn’t without fear and trembling. I always had great respect for how hard the industry would be to make it in, and working through a recession has just increased that respect. As in all tough times, you just try to keep a level head and pray like crazy.

Is life busier or easier now that your kids are older?

Things have relaxed a lot. I’m so thankful for it. They can fix their own meals if need be. They have an understanding of what it means when I need a couple of hours to work. But there are certainly challenges that come with them growing up too. I think the working mom has to be especially flexible and learn that everything is a season, good and bad. Enjoy it while it lasts, if it’s good (three hour naps!) and know that if it’s bad (everyone has the flu and you’re on deadline!), it’s a season.

Do you involve your children in your writing?

Not directly. I’ve let them decide their level of interest in it, and they’ve actually both grown quite interested. I don’t tell them what I do and how I do it, but I answer any and all questions. They went from having no interest at all in what I did to being highly interested in it. That’s been fun. I found out that Cate was telling her entire third grade class I was “very famous.” So we had to back that up a notch and explain “very famous” was like the President. But it cracked me up.

John has taken an interest in the “how-to’s” of writing and has a natural propensity for storytelling, which is so fun for me. I try not to hover, but I want to read everything he writes!

Besides writing and parenting, what other things take up your time and energy?

I work with the drama team at church, which is a lot of fun. And the women’s ministries. I also have a group of moms from my kids’ elementary school that I pray with and make the occasional cupcake-run with. I think it’s super important to be connected to your community. I speak at area schools about writing as much as I can.

What are some practical things you do to balance all the areas of your life?

I also keep a very detailed calendar. And the most important thing is my online Scrabble game. Oh wait…I think that’s should be filed under distraction…Hey, it keeps me sane, what can I say?

When do you find the time to write, and do you ever feel like you’re neglecting your children?

These days they’re in school, so those are my hours. Occasionally I have to pull some hours on the weekend, but that’s usually because I was up at the school doing something with them. I think every mother feels like they’re neglecting their children sometimes. But guilt can be awfully tempting to listen to. If I feel I’ve neglected them, I try to make up for it another time. But I know even with me working, I spend a lot of good, quality time with them. I’ve come to realize that giving them thirty minutes of undivided attention playing something they want is like four hours of giving them a second here and there. I try to be “present” in whatever situation I’m in. So if I’m working, I’m all there. If I’m with my family, I’m all there.

What do you do to encourage yourself during those days you feel less than adequate?

I try to pray and realize that I’m not perfect and life isn’t perfect. I like to keep a good sense of humor about things too. I always joke with my husband that at least our kids aren’t going to go out into the world with the feeling that things are perfect! We’ve introduced the fallen world very early and often to them!

What would you tell writing moms and dads looking to sell their first book?

I think that writing is a huge commitment, so it’s something you want to make sure you’re willing to commit years to. And I always emphasize that if you don’t get a complete thrill and utter joy out of the writing process itself, then don’t go do this for a living. The glamorous side we all imagine it to be is not present very often. Mostly it’s you and your computer and hoping and praying for a good royalty check. So if you don’t like the writing part, the rest of it won’t be worth it. But if you truly enjoy writing, then don’t give up on your dreams.

Do you have any books coming out this year?

This year I had Possession come out in February, a suspense title from Tyndale. And in 2012, I will have a novelization come out called Heart of the Country, a family drama based on the screenplay of filmmaker John Ward.

What will you do if the next contract never comes?

Well, I figure if the next contract never comes, God will have me doing something else. I don’t think He’ll let me sit on the sidelines and pout. Well, maybe for a little bit. But I don’t like sitting around, so I’ll have to figure something out!

What are the top three things on your Bucket List and when do you think you’ll get to pursue them?

Isn’t this horrible, but I don’t have a bucket list! There are certainly many places I want to visit and things I want to do, but I don’t want to live feeling regret if they don’t come about. I’ll have eternity to go do cool things.

What would you tell other moms and dads who have given up on their dreams?

I say that we humans are capable of many, many dreams, and God is capable of equipping us to do things we never imagined. I’d ask God to use you, and see what happens. He’s very creative and sometimes what He comes up with is mind blowing. God is the maker of dreams and He is totally capable of holding yours in His hands and making something awesome come about.

Rene, it’s always a pleasure and inspiration to hear what you’ve learned over the years! I hope those contracts keep on coming!