Do you ever feel uncomfortable as you stare at the cursor on the screen or the blank line in your notebook? I do ALL the time!
Here’s the thing. I love writing. But before each writing session, I struggle with discomfort.
In December we had several unseasonably warm days, and I took advantage of them by walking at a local park. I even took a long walk on a seasonably cold day–it was 19 degrees out! Every time I was out, I breathed in the cool air and noticed the bare branches. My mind kept circling around something I didn’t want to deal with, but finally, I admitted it. I’d been neglecting my inner care.
I’m big on setting goals. By listing them and breaking them down into manageable chunks, I accomplish more than I could imagine. My process is to set monthly goals, then at the beginning of each week, I create daily goals that will work within my current schedule.
Christmas is almost here–yay! I’m enjoying the season. It’s been flying by! A few years ago I pared down my Christmas prep and festivities, and it’s been good for me. So far this December I’ve watched a few Christmas movies, read a few holiday novels, baked some cookies, wrapped some presents, and stared at twinkle lights.
I’ve been reflecting on 2019 and looking forward to 2020. I’m making a “20 for 2020” list of things I want to do. In the meantime, check out my fun stuff of 2019 video below!
I’m taking a blog break until January 8. I plan on continuing our monthly goals. Mine are never glamorous, often repetitive, but that’s what progress is–consistent steps. Thanks for keeping me accountable.
Every December I try to look back and remember what I’ve accomplished. Usually, it involves some head-scratching. Sometimes I give up because I don’t feel like going through my planner to figure out what I did. But this year, it was pretty easy.
I have yet to meet a writer who is 100% satisfied with what they’ve accomplished for the year. I’ll admit, I’m hard on myself, too. I always overestimate how much time I have and underestimate how long things actually take me. By things I mean writing, revising, and promo. Definitely promo!
When I reviewed 2019, I was pleasantly surprised.
I’m gearing up to plan 2020. I bought a new planner (!!), and I have a date planned with two close writer friends to discuss and set our goals for next year. I can’t wait!
And bless you during these final days leading up to Christmas!
Welcome to the 8th day of the 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway! Eleven Christian authors teamed up to show our appreciation to you, our readers, by hosting a massive giveaway.
HER COWBOY TILL CHRISTMAS by Jill Kemerer
The Painted Castle by Kristy Cambron
Recovered Secrets by Jessica R. Patch
A Glitter of Gold by Liz Johnson
The Governess of Penwythe Hall by Sarah E. Ladd
Her Last Chance Cowboy by Tina Radcliffe
The Printed Letter Bookshop by Katherine Reay
You Belong with Me by Tari Faris
Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway below by following some of your favorite authors on social media and signing up for their newsletters. We draw a new winner every day, and on December 12th, we’ll give away a $100 Amazon Gift Card in addition to all the other great prizes!
And don’t forget to stop by Lindsay Harrel’s (linked) blog tomorrow to see what prize is added then!
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The first book in my new series (Wyoming Sweethearts) is in stores NOW! Her Cowboy Till Christmas is my 10th Love Inspired novel!
Not sure if it’s for you? Here are what some readers are saying:
“Three cheers for disgruntled cowboys everywhere — especially the way Jill Kemerer writes them! Embittered and cantankerous. Prone to wallowing in the pain of the past. And none to happy about his former sweetheart showing up on his doorstep without any warning. What a gnarly reunion! But for all his grumpiness, Mason is a sweetheart. He’s a doting dad and a kind neighbour and a devoted friend. A man who can be counted on…” ~ Amazon Reviewer
“As with Kemerer’s other Love Inspired books, this story contains a sweet romance. Mason and Brittany are characters that the reader wants to cheer on to their happily-ever-after. They have both wrestled with hurt and failure. Will this time be any different? The secondary characters of Ryder, Noah, and Nan in this book are wonderful additions to the story. Kemerer creates a setting that draws the reader in and makes you want to be a part! I definitely recommend this book for reader who enjoy a heart-warming romance set around the holidays!” ~ Amazon Reviewer
Click HERE for more information about Her Cowboy Till Christmas including purchase links!
I haven’t counted down the days until Christmas yet (and I don’t want to!), but I know they’re dwindling. Am I ready for the holidays? Of course not!
We had a really nice Thanksgiving. Delicious food. Good times with family. Even some Black Friday shopping. Not bad! But the party is over, and I want to finish this month, year, AND decade strong. Let’s look at how I did with last month’s goals, and then I’ll share my December goals!
Two of my local writer friends and I are getting together soon to discuss our goals for the next year. I’m excited about this. By setting several hours aside and meeting at a casual restaurant, we’re making goal-planning a priority. All too often, I’m guilty of putting off formal planning until the last minute. When I devote a chunk of time to plan in advance, I get more done throughout the year.
Also, it’s great to discuss my goals with I trust. They’ll tell me if I’m being ridiculously overambitious or not ambitious enough. And they often have ideas I never considered. It’s a win all around.
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It’s turkey time! I have to admit, I look forward to my sister’s stuffing even more than the actual turkey. It’s full of fresh herbs. So good! I love the whole meal. There’s nothing better than a table full of food, surrounded by loved ones.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!! I’m thankful for YOU!
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My 10th Love Inspired novel is in stores now! Grab a copy of Her Cowboy Till Christmas and enjoy all the Christmas feels!
It’s celebration time! My 10th Love Inspired novel, HER COWBOY TILL CHRISTMAS, released today! I’m super excited about this book. Let me tell you why.
Can a Christmastime reunion become forever?
She’s only home for the holidays…Can he convince her to stay?
The last person rancher Mason Fanning ever expects to see again is the girl who once broke his heart. Brittany Green is in town for Christmas and trying to convince her ailing grandmother—the only maternal figure the widower’s little boy has left—to move away. Can Mason show her all she really needs to fulfill her dreams is right here in Wyoming?
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The paperback is in stores as of today! Check your local Walmart, Barnes & Noble or any store that carries Love Inspired books. The ebook releases on December 1.
Purchase Links, my inspiration Pinterest Board, a sample of the book, and more can be found by clicking HERE!
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It’s my first time writing for them! Aaaahhh!! Pick up a copy–they have tons of great recipes and tips. Oh, and my short romance to get you ready for Thanksgiving!
Thank you to everyone who entered my Her Cowboy Till Christmas giveaway! The winner will be notified by email.
I’ve been reading romance novels since I was thirteen. Sure, some say that’s young, but I have no regrets. I would buy old Harlequin paperbacks at flea markets. They were typically from the 70s and early 80s–very clean and intriguing!
I was hooked. I still read a lot of romance novels, in addition to books in just about any other genre. What can I say? I love to read!
Here are some of the things I’ve learned about writing romance novels. The opening pages are important–vital, really–to establishing to the reader that the book is indeed a romance.
And don’t forget, my fun giveaway is still going on! Click on HER COWBOY TILL CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY and scroll down for the easy entry options! US only. 18+.
For purchase links and more, click HERE!