November 2023
Hey there, friends,
November is a BIG month for writers. Amid the chaos of our lives, many participate in NANOWRIMO (National Novel Writing Month), wherein the goal is to write a 50K word novel in 30 days. For the non-math people, that’s 1667 words per day. An impressive, yet attainable, fete.
Others who have no desire to draft a novel participate in other writing challenges. This year, I am participating in No-Excuse November with a writing community. I have set the goals to finish my current novel (book 4 in a yet-to-be-released series) and assess the feedback from alpha readers who were kind enough to read my latest manuscript.
For my writing friends, I am posting daily encouragement on Instagram or Facebook, so if you’ve missed a few, download the complete list HERE.
Holiday Expectations
As Thanksgiving approaches, traditions focus on gratefulness and joy, but sometimes, it’s hard on regular days, much less during weeks of obligations.
Life adjustments, disappointments, grief, dietary restrictions, social anxiety, financial worries, or any number of other situations each inhibit our ability to carry within us the necessary fortitude as we enter the holiday season.
I love to ask Bing or Google (or whatever AI-generating software at hand) to answer random questions. When I typed How to be thankful even when you aren’t, the computer was kind enough to offer eight suggestions. They included the expected platitude, “Maintain an attitude of gratitude,” and the campy suggestion to “Keep a grateful journal.”
Those are all well and good, but when you’re not feeling it, it’s hard to muster the energy to follow through.
My favorite was the final suggestion to “Celebrate Tiny Achievements.” This ties in beautifully with my practice of lowering my expectations so that I am genuinely delighted and surprised by little things. It’s a game that I play, and as a result, I am rarely disappointed. This practice (along with a healthy dose of faith) helps me maintain a thankful and appreciative heart, even when it’s hard.
Want to try your hand at fiction?
If you are curious about or interested in writing, then I encourage you to pursue the craft.
Beginning January 9th, I am offering a Short-Story Writing Class for Adults.
Click HERE to register for the Short-Story Writing Class for Adults.
This month, my writing-coach friend, Michelle Layar Rahal released her book ARE YOU LISTENING? A Guide to Recognizing and Responding to God’s Voice.
When I read this several months ago (I had the privilege of reading it early), I didn't know how badly I needed it! I love how she's woven story into practical ways for us to listen to God's subtle (and not-so-subtle) nudges.
I am also delighted to announce that it hit the #1 spot for new releases in her category on November 1st!
Get your copy HERE!
