A few fabulous writing opportunities!

So was one of your New Year's resolutions to pursue more writing opportunities or enter more contests? If so, here are a few to consider:

Romance Short Stories: Write Integrity Press is accepting entries for "Heart Bouquets" - an electronic fictional romance anthology scheduled for release on Valentaine's Day. Deadline is January 31st, which doesn't leave much time, but with a word-count range of 2,000-5,000, it's definitely doable! FREE to enter. Here is the link with all the details: HEART'S BOUQUET

The "JOY" Contest: Also sponsored by Write Integrity Press, here are three more opportunities for publication (and cash!) The BOOKS OF JOY contest is open to entries for fictional and non-fictional series. The ONE JOY contest is open to entries for fictional and non-fictional stand-alone books. And the CHRISTMAS JOY contest is open to entries for fictional and non-fictional Christmas-themed books. There is a minimal entry fee, but there will be several winners who will walk away with a contract and a big wad of cold, hard cash! Worth checking out. Here is the link with complete guidelines: JOY CONTEST

ACFW Genesis Contest: The annual ACFW Genesis Contest for unpublished fiction authors is now open for entries! There is a fee, but this is a wonderful opportunity to get your work in front of industry agents and editors, as well as receive excellent feedback on your work. Many Genesis finalists and winners have gone on to be published by traditional publishers (including me!) Get the scoop here: ACFW GENESIS CONTEST

FaithWriters Page Turner Contest - While this contest is exclusively for FaithWriters Platinum Members, it offers one of the biggest prize packages: FREE editing, publicity, marketing, conference registration, possible publication, and $800 cash! All that is required is the first chapter of your novel, along with a brief synopsis. I actually took home the prize in 2009, so I can attest to this amazing contest! For all the details, click here: PAGE TURNER CONTEST

FaithWriters Paid Blogging Contest - FaithWriters.com has added a few new paid writing opportunities recently (so if you're not a member, I highly encourage you to join). The Blogging Contest is open to any level (Silver - Platinum). Just write a blog post about the sponsored ministry, and post it in the allotted forum on the message boards. Entries will be judged for first, second, and third place winners, who will receive paid writing assignments from the organization. This is a chance to not only win, but spread the word about excellent ministries and help bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world. Full details on the contest page: BLOGGING CONTEST

FaithWriters Writing Challenge - One more great opportunity from FaithWriters.com. The Weekly Writing Challenge is the most popular feature on the site, and now offers cash prizes for each level (Beginner - Masters). This contest is open to all Gold and Platinum members, but also allows 4 credits per year for Silver (free) members, so everyone has a chance to win. The Challenge offers a way to exercise your talent and get great feedback on your work. Write to a topic, word-count, and deadline. For further information, visit the Challenge page: FAITHWRITERS WRITING CHALLENGE

Highlights for Children - This annual contest is open for entries through January 31st. Publication in the Highlights magazine, plus $1,000 cash prize will be awarded. If you're a children's writer, this is for you! And it's FREE! Complete contest guidelines here: HIGHLIGHTS FOR CHILDREN

Let me know if you take advantage of any of these opportunities. And if you know of another contest or market currently accepting submissions, do share!

Endings, Obedience, and a Little Announcement

Wow! Things have been crazy around here. I thought Summer would bring with it some rest and relaxation.

Yeah, right. I'm busier than ever. With my new part-time job (which is actually two or three very long days per week), my kids' demanding schedules, appointments we're cramming in, my regular writing assignments, and trying to prepare everything needed for my editor to get going on my book publication, I'm whipped.

Summer is officially kicking my butt!

Not that I'm complaining, mind you. I wouldn't trade it for anything.

But...I will be honest. For the past couple months I've been struggling with the decision to give up the FaithWriters blog. It's not that it's difficult, and I've really enjoyed it, but with everything going on, it was just becoming harder to focus. As anyone who updates his or her blog 5 times a week can attest, it takes a lot of brain power. And wanting to concentrate more on my novel stuff, marketing, and reviewing books for Faithful Reader, I just felt like the grace for the FaithWriters blog had been lifted off my life.

But I held on. I didn't want to let it go, so I kept plugging along, knowing I was disobeying God in a way, because I truly felt in my spirit it was time to hand it off to someone else.

Well, I finally decided to trust God and do what I knew I was supposed to do. I informed "the boss" of my decision, and also approached someone else (who immediately came to mind for the job) about taking over, and she accepted with joy.

And guess what? Not even a week later, I got the call from my agent telling me Oak Tara had offered me a contract for Mind over Madi.

Cooincidence? I like to think not.

Anyway, as of Monday, the blog will be in the hands of someone you probably already know. She has a true servant's heart and I have no doubt she'll do a marvelous job.

So...announcing the new FaithWriters blogger...

on the FaithWriters blog.

FaithWriters Conference 2011!

The FaithWriters U.S. conference is just over two months away! This will be the 4th conference held in the U.S. (there is also a "Down Under" conference). Each conference gets better and better and I can't wait to see what God will do this year!

I joined FaithWriters seven years ago and most of you probably know that I credit this site for re-jumpstarting my writing career. I attribute much of where I am today (and part of the income I earn) to FaithWriters.com. Well, of course God is the one who orders my steps, but He used FaithWriters to bring me to this point.

I truly hope you'll prayerfully consider attending the FaithWriters conference this year. If you do, be prepared to be mentally and spiritually motivated, refreshed and renewed. Oh - and also be prepared to have the stuffing squeezed out of you. Lots of huggers in this group!

Here's what you can look forward to:


THEME: Nurturing the Whole Writer

DATE: August 12 and 13, 2010

WHERE: Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, Livonia, MI

CONFERENCE COST: $82 = FaithWriters 500 members, $92 = general rate

Register by June 18 to receive the Early Bird Discount. It's a great deal (less than $90 for 2 days). You will walk away abundantly blessed...guaranteed!

HOTEL COST: $93 plus tax (a block of rooms is reserved at this special price for attendees)

REGISTER ONLINE (Once you make your payment, you'll be directed to a page where you can select your workshop and "extras" like headshot photo session, Speed Critiquing with Jan and Deb, and One on One for One appointment with Deb Porter.

CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS - Descriptions of both the general sessions and elective workshops

MESSAGE BOARD DISCUSSION - Find a roommate or a ride from the airport, and join in the excitement about all things conference related.

OFFICIAL CONFERENCE PAGE


I am so excited about this conference and I'd LOVE to see you there!

Why I'm Attending the FaithWriters Conference (and why you should, too!)

The FaithWriters U.S. conference is only two months away! This will be the 3rd conference held in the U.S. (there is also a "Down Under" conference) and it promises to be better than ever (and not just because I'm one of the workshop teachers this year).

I joined FaithWriters six years ago and most of you probably know that I credit this site for re-jumpstarting my writing career. I attribute much of where I am today (and most of the income I earn) solely to FaithWriters.com. Well, of course God is the one who orders my steps, but He used FaithWriters to bring me to this point.

I attended the first two FaithWriters conferences (2007 and 2009) and both times came away so abundantly blessed. The teaching, the fellowship, and the overall atmosphere of Christian love was almost overwhelming - in a good way! To meet the people I've gotten to know online through the Writing Challenge and on the message boards was surreal. Some of my very best friends in the world are FaithWriters members.

So...all this to say I truly hope you'll prayerfully consider attending the FaithWriters conference this year. If you do, be prepared to be mentally and spiritually motivated, refreshed and renewed. Oh - and also be prepared to have the stuffing squeezed out of you. Lots of huggers in this group!

Here's what you can look forward to:

THEME: Nurturing the Whole Writer

DATE: August 13 and 14, 2010

WHERE: Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, Livonia, MI

CONFERENCE COST: $82 = FaithWriters 500 members, $92 = general rate

HOTEL COST: $93 plus tax (a block of rooms is reserved at this special price for attendees)

REGISTRATION FORM - Print out the form and send it via snail mail with your payment to the address provided on the form.

CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS - Descriptions of both the general sessions and elective workshops

MESSAGE BOARD DISCUSSION - Find a roommate or a ride from the airport, and join in the excitement about all things conference related.

OFFICIAL CONFERENCE PAGE

I am so excited about this conference and I'd LOVE to see you there!

Announcing the FaithWriters BLOG

Yes, it's true. FaithWriters now has a BLOG. How cool is that?

Another truth...I am maintaining that blog. At least most of the time. The insanely busy Deb Porter will also pop in from time to time with a post or two.

Basically, the purpose of the blog is to allow FaithWriters to connect to members in a new and effective way. Not to mention, of course, we're always open to recruiting NEW members, and the blog opens another avenue for doing just that. Hey, wouldn't it be cool to reach 50,000 members by the end of the year?

Anyway, the FaithWriters blog will keep you in the loop on everything going on at FaithWriters.com. And it provides YOU a great way to express your thoughts and leave comments. Unless they're negative. Then please keep them to yourself.

JUST KIDDING! We want to hear it all! We take all feedback from our members seriously and are always open to suggestions. As long as those positives outweigh the negative 100 to 1, we're good. :-)

An introduction was posted on Friday and we hope to add new entries at least three times per week. Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to ensure that you receive email notices every time the blog is updated.

This is an exciting new addition to FaithWriters.com! Check it out here:

FAITHWRITERS BLOG

A couple of other ways you can connect with FaithWriters online:

FACEBOOK - Become a Fan

TWITTER - Follow us!


SEE YOU IN CYBERSPACE!

A Fabulous FaithWriters Announcement!

As many of us know, the FaithWriters conference that took place a few weeks ago was fabulous! The teaching, the fellowship, the fun...I could go on and on.

But there was one thing about the conference that stunk. Wanna know what it was?

The fact that we had to wait a whole TWO years before the next one.

Yep...PEEEEWW! That stunk!

Well, I am thrilled to say the stench has disappeared, leaving a lovely floraly fragrance in its place (or a rugged, musky one for the guys). Because it was just announced that we will NOT have to wait two years for the next conference. In less than 12 months from now, the next FaithWriters conference will be taking place.

Is that exciting, or what?

More great teaching and the opportunity to hone our writing skills, more fellowship with other Christian writers and more FUN!

Stay tuned for more information...

In the meantime, start saving those pennies and be sure to SAVE THE DATE! Mark your calendars for August 13 and 14, 2010. Looking forward to seeing you all again next year!

Christian Fiction Online Magazine Celebrates One Year

I posted about this on my Examiner.com page this morning, but I want to share it with you guys, too. I have been reading this online magazine for one year now, ever since it launched in July, 2008.

Founded by Bonnie Calhoun, the Christian Fiction Online Magazine brings information on all things Christian fiction, including book reviews, author interviews, blog tours, advice to writers, even a couple of short stories each month for your reading pleasure. There are also contests, in which you can win boxes of books. How cool is that!

Articles and information is provided by both regular monthly columnists and rotating columnists. Some of the names you might recognize are: Randy Ingermanson, Brandilyn Collins, Rachel Hauck, Denise Hunter, Mary DeMuth, and Dave Meigs. There are articles filed under six different categories: Best, Buzz, Berzerk, Brilliant, Biz, and Blitz.

I encourage you to check it out!

Don't forget to leave a comment on my post from last Wednesday! Commenting is the only way you can win the FaithWriters anthology of your choice! If you don't enter by the time the clock strikes midnight on Tuesday, you'll turn into a giant pumpkin! AND you will lose your chance to enter, so do it now before time runs out! The winner will be announced this coming Wednesday, July 8th.

Winning Wednesday - Readers Choice

I'm dubbing today Winning Wednesday for two reasons:

1. Personally, my husband and I have won two great prizes within the last week. First, my husband was the correct caller on a local radio station and won (2) 11-day passes to the Muskegon Summer Celebration, a huge annual event with lots of fun stuff, including great bands. performing on stage. Last Friday night, he had the privilege of seeing Loverboy and Joan Jett. Last night, he took my daughter to see Kellie Pickler, and tomorrow night, he'll take my son to see Billy Squire. This coming Friday, he and I will go to see Heart. Can't wait for that! TOLD YOU there are some great bands! Classic bands of the 80's totally rock.

The passes he won are worth around $200. Not bad!

Then, yesterday, I received a certified letter in the mail informing me that I am the grand prize winner of a contest I entered that was sponsored by Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa and Pepsi. I won a 2-night, 3-day ski package for six people to stay in a 3-bedroom condo at Crystal Mountain. Sweet, right? Well, it would be...if any of us happened to ski. Not sure if this 40-ish body could handle all of those wipeouts.

I have emailed the resort to see if there is a possibility I can exchange the ski package for something a little less...extreme. Like Golf. I don't golf either, but I'm willing to learn. My arms might get sore, but at least it's likely I won't end up in a body cast.

So anyway...that's reason #1 I'm dubbing today Winning Wednesday. On to #2...

2. The FaithWriters Best of the Best winners were announced today. If you'd like to find out who won, visit my Examiner.com page. Hey, I earn a whole penny every time someone reads an article on my Examiner site. I'm not above begging for clicks. There are links provided to the top three entries, so you can read them and congratulate the winners.

Anyway, because of all the winning going on this week, I would like to give something to you! Because I want to share the love! Of winning, that is.

What can you win? Well in honor of the FaithWriters Writing Challenge Best of the Best winner (and because the Challenge starts up again tomorrow), you have the opportunity to win a FaithWriters anthology of your choice!

So here's how it's going to work. Check out the following FaithWriters anthologies and leave a comment letting me know which one you'd like to win and why. Don't be shy about the reason you want to win. If it's because you happen to have an entry published in one of them, that's a great reason!

I will randomly select a comment from all the entries and next Wednesday, I will announce the winner.

Here's the list. Have fun!

Abundance of Life (May, 2007)

Hidden in the Hymns (December, 2007)

A Year of Celebration (September, 2005)

Journey of Faith (January, 2006)

In the Beginning (July, 2005)

Come Away with Me (May, 2006)

Eternally Blessed (March, 2005)

Inspiration at your Fingertips (November, 2006)

Learning for Life (December, 2004)

And the Winner is...

Thanks to all of you who left a comment to win the FaithWriters anthology, Hidden in the Hymns. Every single hymn you mentioned is awesome. Personally, I love hymns, especially when they have a contemporary twist. But the words and basic melodies are fabulous!

Anyway, let's get to it. I wrote everybody's name down on separate slips of paper, mixed them up, closed my eyes, and picked one. And the name I drew out was ...

KARLENE!

Yay, Karlene! Congrats! All I need from you is your address and your book will be on its way.

Thanks again for participating. Stay tuned for more giveaways in the coming weeks.

By the way, there are many FaithWriters anthologies available. I have found that Buy.com offers them at the cheapest price. You can check them out here: FAITHWRITERS ANTHOLOGIES

BOOK GIVEAWAY - Hidden in the Hymns

I'll be honest ... I didn't know what to blog about today. So I thought I'd scour my bookshelf and see if there was a good book I could offer as a giveaway. I love giving away free stuff, especially to you guys, who take precious time out of your day to read my blog!

So as I was reviewing the books on my shelf, I noticed I had a duplicate of one of the FaithWriters anthologies, Hidden in the Hymns.

PERFECT!

This is a wonderful anthology of the top 10 FaithWriters Weekly Writing Challenge entries for the quarterly theme filled with topics taken from classic hymns. Topics like CROSS, VISION, VALLEY, MELODY, and six more! This is FaithWriters eleventh anthology and includes 54 award-winning authors and over 100 inspirational stories, poems, and articles that are sure to bless your socks off. As stated on the back cover, even if you can't carry a tune, this book will leave your heart singing.

Four of my works are included in this book and I'd love to share them with you. Here's what you need to do to be entered in this drawing:

Leave a comment letting me know your favorite hymn. I will randomly select one winner from all of the comments received. Deadline is midnight, next Thursday, May 28. I will list the winner on next Friday's blog posting.

Good luck!

Writer's Conferences

So I have the nicest dad ever. No really, stop arguing. I do.

A few months ago, he told me that if I finaled in the Genesis Contest again this year, he would pay my way to the ACFW conference.

I got to work on my manuscripts and entered two - to give me a better chance. The opportunity to attend this awesome conference and get to meet my favorite authors, learn a TON about my craft, PITCH to editors and agents, not to mention go to gorgeous DENVER, CO ... it all depended on whether or not I finaled.

Oh, the pressure!

But ... lo and behold, it happened. And my dad, true to his word, is paying my way.

Needless to say, I am ecstatic. And I've already registered. So now, come September, it's Denver or bust!

I have to admit, besides being ecstatic, I am also a little anxious. I have a lot of work to do in the next few months - making travel arrangements, researching the agents and editors that will be there, and preparing my manuscripts and proposals. Oh, and losing a few pounds would be nice, too.

Because writer's conferences are so instrumental in furthering writing careers and getting new writers one step closer to publication, I have put together a list of some upcoming writer's conferences you may want to consider. Hope you get a chance to attend at least one.

And I wish everyone had a dad as cool as mine.

THANKS, DAD! YOU ROCK!


American Christian Fiction Writers - Denver, CO (September 2009)

Romance Writers of America - Washington, D.C. (July 2009)

FaithWriters - Livonia/Detroit, MI (August, 2009)

Maranatha (Write with Purpose) - Muskegon, MI (September 2009)

Write to Publish - Wheaton, IL (June, 2009)

Glorieta Christian Writers Conference - Near Santa Fe, NM (October, 2009)

Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference - Philadelphia, PA (August, 2009)

Writing for the Soul - Denver, CO (February, 2010)

Oregon Christian Writers Summer Coaching Conference - Canby, OR (July, 2009)

St. David's Christian Writing Conference - Grove City, PA (June, 2009)

Kentucky Christian Writers Conference - Elizabeth Town, KY (June, 2009)

Southern Christian Writers Conference - Tuscaloosa, AL (June, 2009)

Festival of Faith & Writing - April, 2010 (Grand Rapids, MI)

The Examiner.com

Some pretty exciting news...

Tracy Ruckman, a writer and editor who also happens to be my online friend, was recently named as Christian Writing Examiner for Examiner.com. Tracy gets her very own Examiner Page, where she can post to her heart's content on all things related to Christian writing. As she is beginning to add material to her page,Tracy asked me to write an article for her about FaithWriters.

She didn't have to ask me twice! I was on it.

The article has been posted and I'd love for you to check it out. It gives a bit of information about how FaithWriters got started and some of the benefits of becoming a member.Here's the link: A Home for the Christian Writer

While you're there, be sure to take in all of the great content provided so far. New material, which will help you in writing both fiction and non-fiction, will be continually added so check back frequently and bookmark TRACY'S CHRISTIAN WRITING EXAMINER PAGE for quick access.

Tracy Ruckmkan is also the owner of Write Integrity Editorial Services and Pix-n-Pens. She knows her stuff and you'll be blessed by her services.

In or Out of the Box?

So as writers, we hear a lot about writing "outside of the box." But let's face it: sometimes, staying inside of the box works. Not to mention feels a lot safer. After all, if we've lived inside of the box a long time, stepping out can be a little, um, intimidating. Stressful. Scary!

There are some things in storytelling that will always be "in the box." For example, the formula for romance stories. Boy meets girl. Boy and girl have conflict. Boy and girl end up happy.

OK, so the formula may always be "boring" so to speak, but that doesn't mean your story needs to be. It's your job as the author to come up with ways to make the plot fresh and exciting and keep your reader turning those pages. Who wants to read a story they've read a hundred times before? Readers loved to be surprised, emotionally and mentally challenged, shocked even. So while the formula is in the box, what happens in your novel should be out of the box.

Clear as mud?

Jan Ackerson, a regular FaithWriters Challenge winner, says she comes up with her Weekly Challenge ideas this way. She says, "When I see the topic for the week, I write down everything I can possibly think of that relates to that topic. Then, I throw it away because those ideas are ones everyone has probably thought of." Her goal is to think of something original. Fresh. Out of the box.

Take your thinking to another level. Think about the word or topic from all angles. Say the topic of the week is BLIZZARD. Here's a "box" breakdown:

IN the box: A couple is stranded inside of a cabin during a blizzard.

A little better but still IN the box: A month long blizzard wipes out the entire population except for two people who are now forced to survive.

OUT of the box: A girl goes to the local Dairy Queen because she craves an enormous BLIZZARD ice cream cup.

THAT'S thinking outside of the box.

Here's another example. Say the topic is MEMORY.

IN the Box: A story about computer memory.
IN the Box: A man loses his memory.
IN the Box: A woman reflects on her childhood.

OUT of the Box: Story about a memory foam mattress

Sometimes in the box does work. But your story needs to be excellent in order to pull it off. Otherwise, it just comes across as hum-drum and same-old.

This week, I challenge you to step out of the box. If nothing else, you will learn to use your creativity in a new way. And you may just end up writing something brilliant.

To challenge your "out-of-the-box" writing ability, enter this week's FaithWriters Challenge.

FaithWriters Conference Registration Now Open!

In August, 2007, the very first FaithWriters conference was held in Livonia, Michigan, where the FaithWriters home office is located. Fabulous doesn't even come close to describing that conference, from keynote speaker, Sally Stuart, to excellent teaching by our own Deb Porter, David Ian, and Cori Smelker. And don't even get me started on what it was like to finally meet other FaithWriters members face-to-face. It was like one, big, two-day family reunion. Those of us who attended have been counting the days until the next conference.

Well, I am thrilled to announce that the time has finally come! Registration is now open for the 2009 FaithWriters conference! The theme this year will focus on "Nurturing the Whole Writer" and featured speakers include inspirational romance author, Linore Rose Burkard, and FaithWriters own Deb Porter, Corinne Smelker, David Ian, and Jan Ackerson. To read the full speaker bios, click HERE.

HERE ARE THE GENERAL DETAILS:

When: August 7 & 8

Where: Radisson Hotel, Livonia, MI

Cost:

Early Bird for FW 500 Members (through June 7th) - $65

Early Bird for all others - $75

General Rate for FW 500 Members (June 8 or after) - $72

General Rate for all others - $82

*Cost includes conference, Saturday breakfast, lunch, and snacks*
*Hotel and transportation not included

http://www.faithwriters.com/conference.php

FULL SCHEDULE

REGISTRATION


I'm sure I'll be posting more about the conference as it draws nearer. For now, I'll just say that if there is any way you can swing it, I would LOVE to meet you there!

FaithWriters Writing Challenge

OK, so I actually got in a Challenge Entry this week. Woot!

Last quarter, the theme was geographical locations - You know, like Asia, Africa, India, Australia...hey, anyone who knows me is aware that the only topic from last quarter that I would have been qualified to enter was The United States. And even that would have been iffy. Geography is definitely not my thing.

Besides that, I was uber-busy. Yeah, that's it.

So, after taking more than a quarter off, which adds up to over three months, I took a look at the topic last week and immediately got an idea. I wrote and entered it in under an hour. I really like it, too, which means there goes my chance of placing in the top ten. That's usually how it goes anyway. :-)

But that's ok! It felt good to hit that submit button.

So for those of you who aren't familiar with the FaithWriters Weekly Writing Challenge, it is the most popular feature of FaithWriters. It is completely free to enter and does wonders in honing your writing skills by allowing you to experiment with different styles and genres. It also disciplines you to write to a topic, a deadline, and a word-count (150-750). Getting feedback from other members is just the icing on the chocolate brownie.

The top ten winners each week go on to be published in the FaithWriters quarterly anthologies. So far, there have been 11 books published. Due to some changes we're making with the publication of these antholigies, we're a few books behind but hope to get caught up in the next year or two. Check out previously published books here: CHALLENGE BOOKS

Oh...and you can even win cash! All forty #1 entries from the year (July to July) are judged for the title of Best of the Best (or BoB, as we like to call it). The top three winners receive a nice cash prize. How cool is that? Despite placing over 40 times in the top ten, including a few #1's, I have never won this coveted title. But I'm determined to win it one of these days! I have had the privilege of interviewing the winners, though, which was fun. Here's a link to those if you'd like to take a peek: BEST OF THE BEST WINNERS


Anyway, here's how The Weekly Writing Challenge works (taken from the FaithWriters site):

HOW IT WORKS

1. You may not use a previously written, published, or copyrighted work in the writing challenge. The purpose of the challenge is to write on the topic chosen and not to use a previously written piece.

2. Members, SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY to this week's challenge by clicking the orange SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY button. The challenge is to write an article about the topic for the week and your entry MUST be between 150 to 750 words MAX. You can now choose a level of entry. Level 1 – Beginner, Level 2 – Intermediate, Level 3 – Advanced, and Level 4 - Masters. Please choose the most appropriate level for your writing ability. REMEMBER, you will not see your entry displayed until the challenge week is up. Then your entry will be displayed along with all other entries where they can be read and commented on for one week. YOU CAN SUBMIT ONE ENTRY PER WEEK.

3. READ entries from the previous week. You can also leave comments and critiques on the entries of all members.

4. Once the submission week has ended, a new topic will be added and the previous week's entries will be displayed to read and make comments.

5. Each week, a new topic will be added for submission, the previous week's entries will be displayed for READING and COMMENTS, and the entries that were being read and commented on for the week will be tallied and 5 winners from each level will be chosen by our rotating panel of judges. 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 2 Highly commended entries will be chosen. There are now 15 winners EACH WEEK!

6. A rotating panel of judges will be looking for their top 10 entries each week. These entries will be considered the EDITOR'S CHOICE and will be used in our quarterly book. EDITOR'S CHOICE winners will also be eligible for the yearly "BEST OF THE BEST" Grand Prize Winners! These winners will be chosen by our panel of judges from all of the EDITOR'S CHOICE winners throughout the year. First place will win $300.00, Second place will win $100.00, and Third place will win $75.00. Winners will be announced July 1st of each year.

7. Members can also leave comments on each article. Click the link "LEAVE COMMENT ON ARTICLE" to leave your feedback to the author of any article.

8. READ PREVIOUS writing challenges in the challenge archives.

I highly encourage you to check it out. As Mikey used to say (for those of us old enough to remember)...Try it, you'll like it!

Or, in this case, you'll get ADDICTED to it! But this is one addiction that is allowed.

Ready to enter? Click here: THE CHALLENGE

Feeding the (FaithWriters) 500

On Friday, I posted my FaithWriters testimony. I told you how FaithWriters has blessed my life and how it can bless yours, too. Today, I am posting a letter that was recently sent out to all FaithWriters members regarding the tough economic situation that FaithWriters, along with many other companies, is facing right now. I truly hope it encourages you to prayerfully consider helping to "feed" this company - ministry, really - that feeds thousands and thousands of members every day. Members that have a hunger to learn the craft of writing. Who desire to use their God-given gifts and talents for God's glory. We rely on your donations to keep FaithWriters alive.

Thanks in advance for opening your heart to this opportunity to be a blessing.



Dear FaithWriters friends,

As we are all aware, the world is in the midst of a time of great economic volatility and uncertainty. Over the last twelve months, financial belts have been tightening, and not surprisingly, this has had a severe impact on FaithWriters.

Conversely, membership at FaithWriters has been growing faster than ever before. The incredible value of this site to the Christian community, particularly to writers, is unquestionable, and the rapidly increasing membership is testimony to that. The support, encouragement, information, inspiration and opportunities provided, both at FaithWriters and on the message boards, have spurred many members on in their writing, taking them to new levels of achievement, and providing confidence to use their abilities professionally for God's glory.

So while membership is booming, financial support for FaithWriters has been plummeting. Unless this financial trend is reversed, the consequences for FaithWriters will be extremely serious.

Almost all FaithWriters' services are provided free of charge to all FaithWriters members, with only a few add-on options, such as the Private Messenger. By signing up for one or more of the extra services, or becoming a member of the FaithWriters 500, members help to meet our mounting costs. Although one-off donations are always appreciated, and can be made online at http://www.faithwriters.com/donations.html our heart is always to give generously back to our members, and that's where the FaithWriters 500 blesses both ways. Members partnering with FaithWriters in this way receive many benefits, while helping to keep FaithWriters alive for just 33 cents a day.

As serious as the financial situation has been for FaithWriters over the last year, the rapidly declining support over recent months has brought FaithWriters to a critical fork in the road. We would not be wise stewards to sit back and ignore the warning signs.

For that reason, we ask our members to give consideration to the following ways in which they can help to contribute to the financial support of FaithWriters:•Become a FaithWriters 500 member and enjoy many excellent benefits http://www.faithwriters.com/fw-500-more.html

•Sign up for one or more of the optional add-on services (private messenger, FaithWriters email, EZ Site Builder, etc).

•Sponsor a member in the FaithWriters 500 http://www.faithwriters.com/myaccount/FaithWriters500/fw500-sponsor.php

•Make a one-off donation http://www.faithwriters.com/donations.html

With your prayers and financial support, we can keep FaithWriters alive and growing.

God bless you for your continued support and prayers.

God Bless,
Scott Lindsay

Finding FaithWriters...

My friend, Julie Arduini, over at The Surrendered Scribe, posted on her blog this week about FaithWriters. I have decided to be a copy-cat and do the same. Not only because it was FaithWriters that re-jump-started my writing career five years ago, but also because FaithWriters is really feeling the crunch of these tough econimic times and I simply can't imagine waking up one morning to find it gone. It just can't happen.

Anyway, I hope to focus on FaithWriters for the next week or so. Today, I will post my FW testimony so you can get a feel for how this ministry has truly blessed me and why it will always be near and dear to my heart. Once you get involved and see what FW is all about, it will do the same for you!


I've loved to write for as long as I can remember. Before finding FaithWriters, I even got a couple of things published. But back then, writing was only a hobby. Sure, I had dreams of becoming a famous novelist someday. But those dreams were put on the backburner of my heart for a long time. After all, how could a "nobody" from a little town in Michigan make it big? And, an even bigger question: how could God use somebody like me, an insecure girl from a broken family, with a rebellious past, to accomplish anything for His glory? It just didn't seem possible.

When I found FaithWriters, a spark ignited in my soul. The warm and friendly atmosphere and Christian spirit were unlike any I had ever experienced. My passion for writing came to life and I started diligently entering the Weekly Writing Challenge. It was through the Challenge that I learned and grew as a writer like never before. With the discipline of sitting down to write every week and through comments and encouragement from other members, I developed more confidence. Maybe I really could do something. Maybe God did give me a gift. Maybe I was truly called to write.

Over the next several months, I jumped in, head first. I volunteered my time as Writing Challenge judge, book reviewer, online magazine editor. I didn't care much about making money at that point - I was just hungry to learn the craft and get some experience under my belt. But as I started becoming more involved, the opportunities literally exploded.

When the FaithWriters 500 was introduced, I was thrilled to give back to this site that had stirred up the passion for me. The site that was directly responsible for providing me with writing opportunities beyond what I could have ever imagined. The site that had changed my life.

Today, I am a full-time freelance writer. I have had my work published hundreds of times. I have won or placed in several writing contests. I am almost finished with my first novel, which has finaled in three national contests.

But it's not about me. When I look back and see how God's hand has been on every moment of my journey, I am deeply humbled. I see now how He moved me - sometimes very slowly - in the direction He wanted me to go. And there isn't a doubt in my mind that He used FaithWriters to do it.

The FaithWriters 500 offers so many wonderful benefits that have helped me accomplish my goals - the Page Turner contest, the Writer's Digest and Christian Writers Market discounts, Glenn's Weekly Writing Articles…but more than the perks and benefits, I feel honored to give back to a site that assists people in using their creative gifts for God's glory. A site that helps make dreams come true. Dreams like mine…

I'll be honest. I don't understand those who freely use all of FaithWriters features and refuse to give back. I've found that 500 members aren't those with the most money. They're the ones with the biggest hearts.

Please open your heart and consider supporting this site by becoming a 500 member. If FaithWriters dies, many dreams and opportunities will die along with it. Don't let it be yours.

Attention FaithWriters Fans and Friends...

EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT:

While the message boards are a wonderful place to learn about everything that's happening at FaithWriters, not everyone chooses to puruse the boards. But now there's another way to keep up with all things FaithWriters. We're pleased to announce that you can now find FaithWriters.com on three separate online social networks. Be notified when the monthly newsletters are posted, get updated on the Page Turner Contest and the upcoming Writing Conference (August 7 & 8), hear about mini-challenges and 500 news and when new quarterly anthologies are published.

To stay in the loop, find FaithWriters online here:

FACEBOOK - Become a fan of FaithWriters to receive automatic updates and also jump into fun discussions with Facebook friends: http://www.facebook.com/pages/FaithWriterscom/57523436628?ref=mf

TWITTER - Follow FaithWriters.com here: http://twitter.com/FaithWriters

SHOUTLIFE - For all of you ShoutLife members, get the latest news bulletin by adding FaithWriters as a friend: http://www.shoutlife.com/FaithWriters


Don't miss a thing! Be sure to keep in touch with us and stay in the loop on everything happening at FaithWriters! Hope to see you there!

FaithWriters.com

This is a notice to all of you FaithWriters members who have been trying to access the FaithWriters site and can't. You're probably pulling your hair out wondering WHY!

I'm here to prevent your baldness.

FaithWriters experienced a server meltdown and we're in the process of upgrading to a better server. Please be patient as the kinks are worked out (even after the site is back online, there are sure to be a few). It will probably won't be until sometime tomorrow morning (the 7th) that the site is back up.

Also...an FYI...this server is better, which means it costs a lot more money, which means we need to really boost revenue. At the risk of sounding like I'm begging--which I am--please, please, please...if you're NOT yet a 500 member, consider signing up. Not only will you receive FABULOUS benefits exclusively for you, but you will be helping to keep FaithWriters alive. For those of you who already are 500 members, you can help by:

1. Praying for the site to grow and for members to be blessed and able to give
2. Spreading the word about how awesome the 500 membership is (it IS!)
3. Sponsor another member who may not be able to afford the $10 per month.

Now, for all of you who are wondering just what you get for $10 per month (payable by credit card or PAYPAL, by the way), here are the features you receive as a 500 member:

*FREE access to the Private Messenger System
*FREE EZ Site Builder – build a professional looking website in minutes!
*FREE web-based email service (@FaithWriters.net address)
*Discount on publishing services from a major Christian publisher
*HUGE discount on all editing and manuscript assessment services
*FREE listings of your e-book in our e-book store (you keep ALL the profits!)
*FREE advertising of your book or other writing related services
*Access to exclusive Weekly Writing Articles (Go, Glenn! These are AWESOME articles!)
*Eligibility for the annual PAGE TURNER Contest (first place receives $800 cash, plus other prizes!)
*Large discount on Sally Stuart’s Christian Writers’ Market Guide (just ordered my 2009 copy yesterday at a savings of over $10)
*Large discount on Writers Digest magazine
*The chance to be featured on the FaithWriters Home Page
*Opportunities to be published in the FaithWriters magazine
*A gold 500 emblem next to your name (readers’ eyes are drawn first to those icons!)
*A star next to all of the FREE REPRINT articles you post (more easily catch the attention of editors and publishers on the prowl!)


As you can see, the benefits far outweight the cost of $10 per month!

Seriously, FaithWriters has blessed my life more than I can tell you. It is THE site that re-jump-started my writing career. I have grown as a writer, been published numerous times over, and have gotten more freelance work than I ever dreamed exclusively through FaithWriters.com. NOT TO MENTION, have met some of the bestest friends I've ever had!

FaithWriters is near and dear to my heart and I am asking--no, begging--you to sign up as a 500 member. I firmly believe that YOU will be DOUBLY blessed for it.

If you have any questions about FaithWriters or the 500 membership, don't hesitate to contact me.

In the meantime, be patient as we switch to a new and improved server.

My Top Five Favorite Sites...

To the average bystander, it would probably seem I'm on a mission. A mission to see how many sites I can join before I turn 40.

Oh wait. I already am 40.

No I'm not.

Ok, I am.

Now that we have that out of the way, on to more important things. Like websites.

I've heard people say they refuse to join yet another networking site. They already belong to a bazillion, they don't have the time, yada, yada. And I can understand that. In fact, for a while, I was joining sites left and right. Then I started receiving notices - daily - from sites asking where I was. "We miss you!" the subject lines read.

I was touched. Really, I was. Especially because my own kids don't say that even when they go camping for a week without me.

But I digress.

When these notices started appearing in my email inbox, I wondered if I might just be joining more sites than I could handle. Hey - my hair may flip up on the ends and I may dress a little strangely from time to time (just ask my kids), and my name may be Lynda with a "Y" but I'm no Wonder Woman.

So I whittled down a little, picking and choosing the sites I can't live without. I ended up with five, which isn't bad, as long as I am able to appropriately balance my time on each of them. That's not always easy - and sometimes I fail - but I refuse to give them up. So here are my top five favorite sites:

FaithWriters - I joined over four years ago and FaithWriters is, singlehandedly, the site that rejumped my writing career. I can't even tell you how many opportunities have come to me through FaithWriters. And don't even get me started on the members. They are the warmest, most genuine group of Christians I've ever met. And I am proud to call them some of my closest friends.

GodLinked - Ok, I'm a little biased here, because I am site administrator at GodLinked. It's my baby...well, not exactly MY baby, but I did play a (very) small part in its start-up, such as the name and the motto: Connecting our faith, one link at a time.

I don't do MySpace, even though my kids do (and we monitor their activity, believe me). GodLinked is similar to MySpace but without all the junk. The people are fabulous, we've got some great groups started (including Authors, Comedians, Desperate Moms, Weight Watchers, Lighter Moments, Teens, Prayer Intercessory, Scrapbookers Corner - just to name a few - and the forums are also beginning to pick up steam. So if you're looking for a Christian networking site, check out GodLinked. It's relatively new but there's a lot of potential there.

Twitter - Who thought of this name, anyway? Doesn't matter. I personally love the name and love the concept. The point is to type blurbs about what you're doing at the moment - up to 140 characters (which aint a lot, trust me! Really tests a writer's chopping skills). You can follow as many Twitterers as you'd like and respond to their posts. You can twitter from your computer, ipod or phone. As of right now, I am following 27 and have 20 followers. This is nothing compared to most, but give me a break - I'm just getting started.

Facebook - I felt so out of the loop...all my friends had a Facebook and I didn't. So, basically giving in to peer pressure, I joined. I didn't think I'd like it. Honestly, I hoped I wouldn't like it. But, guess what? I LOVE IT. Facebook has allowed me to reconnect with high school friends and keep in touch with far-away cousins. Lots of fun stuff there...so beware, it is a potential time-waster. But it's quickly becoming a favorite.

ACFW - I shouldn't even need to explain why American Christian Fiction Writers will always be listed in my "favorites." Loaded with all the tools and resources I need on my journey towards "published author", I wouldn't dare stray far. And the message boards are fun - where else can I rub shoulders with the authors I love? Sometimes I feel so unworthy to be in the presence of such greatness...

So there you have it. Five sites I won't be giving up anytime soon (if ever!). So what are your top 5 irresistable and addicting sites? I might check them out and I might not, depending on how much space I have left on my balancing scale.

Now, excuse me. I have to go twitter.