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Background vector designed by Freepik Now that most schools are back in session and many homeschoolers are diving into their curriculum, I thought it would be fun to create a Back to School scavenger hunt for young readers. Head to a store or bump around the internet (with adult supervision, of course) to search for …
Several years ago, my daughter received the first book in The Adventures of Lily Lapp series by Suzanne Woods Fisher and Mary Ann Kinsinger. While at the library, she discovered the other three books in the series. She borrowed the books several times that summer and took them everywhere. After we purchased a set for …
I recently shared my Camp Galatians manuscript with a beta reader. After reading the first couple chapters, she called with a suggestion. Kids at camp usually address the counselors by their camp names–names like Moose and Buckeye. Some camps allow you to choose your own name while others make you earn it. This was an …
While schools are preparing to open their doors for the first day of a new academic year, many parents and caregivers are scrambling for fresh ways to entertain their kids. My mom retired from teaching fifth grade several years ago. I remember Bottle Buddies being one of her favorite reading projects. Each year, she asked …
After traveling with a mission group to serve others in Mexico, I was moved to inquire about child sponsorship. When I learned the children I had connected with during my visit were either not yet eligible for sponsorship or already had sponsors, I decided to hold off on taking any action. During a worship service …
As I prepare for my first writers conference, I’m excited to participate in this online mixer. Name: Laurie Smith Location: Cincinnati, Ohio What you write/tagline/trademark: I write inspirational fiction for middle grade readers. My tagline is “Building His Kingdom one project at a time.” Place in the book world: Though I’ve been writing for the past few …
As I created this website, I knew I needed a head shot. One evening, moments before our family had to leave for an event downtown, I asked my older daughter to take a few pictures of me in our backyard. The timing, conditions, and equipment were far from optimal, but I wanted to meet my …
While I continue to edit my manuscript (currently titled Hiram County Chronicles Book #1: Camp Galatians), I thought it would be fun to create a few puzzles and games related to the story. Below are links to a word search and crossword puzzle that focus on the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5: 22-23). The …
Current Project: Hiram County Chronicles Book #1– Camp Galatians (working title) Status: Editing Seeking representation and pursuing publication Pitch: Seventh grader Beth Shapiro doesn’t trust others, especially not her classmate Erick Moulder. She is desperate to return home from the class camping trip. Erick loves camp. After his mother’s recent passing, he welcomes the break …
For many, another school year has come to a close. Parents and caregivers will soon be looking for ways to entertain their children during the summer months. When talking with friends last year about their plans for the summer, they expressed interest in finding a list of family-friendly volunteer opportunities in our area. I compiled …