Monday, September 23, 2013

Blog Tag



I'm It!  

Sending a big thank you to Lisa Ricard Claro of Writing in the Buff! She tagged me, and now I get to answer the following questions. :)

What are you working on right now?

My work in progress is an historical fiction novel set in colonial America. It's a collaborative project with author Susan J. Reinhardt. Both of us have had other projects on our plates this year so progress has been slow. But it's been fun and exciting to watch the book take shape. Susan and I both are seat of the pants writers and we like to give each other surprises when we hand over a completed chapter.

In addition to working on articles and blog posts, I'm brainstorming ideas for more educational books for my publisher, Helping Hands Press. I'm also taking a copyediting course and considering new lesson offerings for the online writing classes I teach.

How does the WIP differ from other works in the genre?

The book Susan and I are writing touches on a little known historic event of that era. There are additional surprises, but since this is a collaborative project, I cannot divulge any more right now. Sorry about that! We're hoping that it will offer a fresh and interesting storyline to Christian historical fiction fans.

Why do you write what you do?

I realized about fifteen years ago that I enjoy writing lessons, like those I use for teaching teens and adults online. I come from a family of teachers, but I never wanted to go into teaching, so this came as a bit of a surprise. Composing lessons involves writing but takes a different approach and role than that of a traditional classroom teacher, so maybe that's why it appeals to me.

When writing lessons, I think about material from the student's viewpoint. What can I write that will engage young minds? How can I make it fun and interesting? What will help them stretch, learn, and retain info? I've seen success in my classes with this approach; it motivates me to write more lessons that can help students learn.

I enjoy writing fiction too, although I am not sure yet how strong of a writer I am in that area. Susan seems to think I do okay, as she agreed to write the book with me. :) She's a patient teacher.

Bottom line, I enjoy writing and have long felt that I could use it to reach and encourage others in various ways. Writing is a passion that I also see as my life's work at this stage of the game.

What is the hardest part about writing?

I like all stages of the process unless I am stuck with a deadline pressing, or when editing and not sure how to rework something. I battle two things most - lack of confidence and procrastination. I'm a work in progress though, and figure there is no growth without a few bumps in the road to overcome.


Now You're It! 

I'm supposed to tag three authors, but I've decided to tag all of you. If you are willing, consider yourself tagged. If you'd rather pass, I understand. Let me know if you accept the challenge, Would love to hear your answers. :)


Coming Attractions

Alex J. Cavanuagh joins us for an interview on September 30 to celebrate the release of his latest book, Cassastorm.

Jody Hedlund's blog tour for Rebellious Heart stops here on October 7 and will include a giveaway and other surprises.

Hope you can join us!


What do you think is the hardest part about writing?
 
Have a great week,

Karen

P.S. Looking for writing tips for kids K-12? I'm sharing a few over at Carol Alexander's blog.



Photo credit: Stock Exchange

28 comments :

  1. Happy Monday Karen! What's the title of your novel going to be?

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  2. The hardest part for me is just sitting down and starting. But once I get through that barrier, I'm good to go. :)

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  3. Keith,
    We haven't settled on a final title yet, but will keep you posted! :)

    Jennifer,
    You know, I do that too. I'm pretty good at dancing around a project before I finally get to it! :)

    Happy writing,
    Karen

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  4. Hope you get time to finish that collaboration. And write more educational books. Always helps to know your strength.
    Looking forward to visiting next week!

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  5. So much truth in being a Work in Progress. Fun post.

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  6. Hi Karen! How fascinating to read what you are doing. You are a busy person! I bet you are so good at managing your time. You should write a book about that. I could use some help :)

    I think I'll wait to join you in the questions. I am pretty new at all of this writing stuff. But maybe someday!

    Happy Monday :)
    Ceil

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  7. Your WIP sounds very interesting; I love historical fiction.

    Oh, and I love the photo of the girls playing tag in the field.

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  8. Alex,
    I think we will, just a matter of taking longer than we thought. Looking forward to having you stop by! :)

    Loree,
    It is, and it's better to keep that in mind rather than to stress over it. I need to remind myself of that a lot! lol :)

    Ceil,
    Well, if you can keep a secret, I will tell you that I am not always the best at organizing my time. In my head I am, but the reality doesn't always play out as well. :) When I figure it out I will let you know!

    Donna,
    Thanks, Donna, looking forward to seeing how the story plays out. :) Found this photo on Stock Exchange and thought it was perfect. :)

    Happy writing,
    Karen

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  9. Enjoyed reading all about what you are doing now in your writing. I like your last comment about being a work in progress and the bumps in the road!

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  10. One thing I battle all the time is a lack of confidence, or more aptly, crumbling confidence. It doesn't take much to pull it down. But I am to quote Oprah, "a woman in progress" too.
    Besties for your new novel.

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  11. Amigo, I am thrilled to learn you two are still working on the project. YaY! But you two have been rather busy. ;-) The ol' BIC is hardest for me. It seems the day is finished before I know it these days. But I am revising the MG and doing some critiquing and working on some picture books. So maybe your commitment and enthusiasm is contagious and I caught the bug! :-)

    I would accept the challenge if there wasn't so much on my plate. Thursday I take Christopher for a hospital stay to have some tests run.

    Hugs amigo. Smooches too!

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  12. Through trial and error, I've discovered I am a far better non-fiction writer. But I still enjoy fiction, too.

    Pleased you are still doing the collaboration. They are fun!

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  13. yep, I have a few troubles with procrastination too.

    Working collaboratively must be really satisfying.

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  14. Hi Karen - you're always full of projects and writing ideas - that keeps the mind creative ..

    It's good to know that you and Susan are still working together ..

    Good for you both .. cheers Hilary

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  15. Janet,
    Thank you! The road gets rather bumpy sometimes, but we make it through! :)

    Joy,
    I like that, "woman in progress". Yes, and we're still moving forward! :) Thanks a bunch!

    Robyn,
    I am hoping to work more in the WIP soon. I appreciate you cheering us on! You are one sweet amigo. Hugs and smooches back! :)

    Diane,
    I think I may fall into this category too. Ye, having lots of fun with Susan! :)

    Lynda,
    I think procrastination is my biggest hurdle. Getting better, but slowly, lol. :)

    Hilary,
    Susan's great to work with, and such a good sport. Some days though, we laugh more than we work. I think that's a good thing, right? lol :)

    Blessings,
    Karen

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  16. I eagerly await the novel you and Susan are working on! You are a woman of many talents, Karen. And we're all of us works in progress!

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  17. Thanks for playing, Karen! It was great to learn more about what makes you tick and to read about your WIP. That sounds like a lot of fun. :)

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  18. Jen,
    You are a wonderful cheerleader! I appreciate your support. I know Susan does too. :) Well good, all works in progress. I feel better knowing I'm not the only one who has ups and downs! lol

    Lisa,
    You are welcome! Thanks for tagging me! It was fun, and helped me think about goals and such too. Hoping a few friends will accept the tag too. :)

    Blessings,
    Karen

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  19. Hi Karen,

    I loved reading all about you. Thanks for sharing.

    Nas

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  20. It's great learning more about you! Good luck on your book.

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  21. Nas,
    Thank you! Will you give it a try? Would be fun to learn more about you too. :)

    Carol,
    Thanks so much. It was a fun tag! Enjoyed my stop at your place the other day. :)

    Happy writing,
    Karen

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  22. I think it's great you and Susan are writing a book together. :)

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  23. Hi Karen -

    Great questions, and I learned a thing or two about you from the answers. I think we'll have a whole new perspective on our book when we pick up the threads.

    Sorry it took me so long to get here. There was a small matter of two books for my publisher. :)

    Blessings,
    Susan

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  24. Angela,
    It's been fun! We've a lot more work to do though. But I am sure you can relate after working with Becca! :)

    Susan,
    So I surprised you, wasn't sure if you knew all that already or not! :) No need to apologize. I know how it goes. Oh yeah. :)

    Blessings,
    Karen

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  25. Colonial America is a great time period for HF. HF is such a fascinating genre and I haven't read many that take place during the Colonial time period (the ones that come to mind are MG right now). :) Best of luck!
    ~Jess

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  26. Jess,
    I agree, I love that stretch in history - so much drama and interesting things happening! Thanks so much!
    Happy writing,
    Karen

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  27. It's fantastic you're writing collaboratively. I've been curious about that.

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  28. Medeia,
    It's been fun and interesting. It's nice to find someone that will put up with me and actually wants to work together! lol :)
    Glad you stopped by,
    Karen

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Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts. Have a blessed day!