Notecards for Novels

As I mentioned in a previous post, I pitched a book at the ACFW Conference in August.  In preparation for meetings with editors and agents during that weekend, I filled a spiral-bound book of index cards with important details about the manuscript.  The book was small and lightweight, occupying little space in my bag.  Though …

ACFW First Impressions Contest Results

Earlier this fall, I submitted the first five pages of my most recent manuscript for young adults to the 2016 ACFW First Impressions Contest. As I entered this contest for the second year, I was not expecting to win or even be named a Finalist for that matter.  My goal was to earn higher scores this …

Writing and Waiting

This time last year, I had finished my first manuscript. A friend encouraged me to submit the first five pages to the 2015 ACFW First Impressions Contest.  I followed her advice and entered my writing to be judged by three industry professionals.  I had worked hard to revise the piece to the best of my …

What’s Your Superpower?

As students in our school district geared up for Homecoming, our middle school organized Spirit Week. One day they dressed up in clothing from a specific decade. The next day they wore crazy hats. On the third day, their costumes were inspired by a favorite Disney character. They wore school colors on Friday to show …