Remember chain letters? They originated as the means for spreading a message, swapping stickers or raising money. There is a similar trend happening in the blogging world-only it’s not an effort to raise money, but to expose readership to different [and in some cases] new blogs. It’s like a cyber high-five!!

Several blog friends (many that I do not know other than clicking on their blogs and reading what they pour out on the page) have been allowing their readers to have a “behind the scenes” look at their writing process. Now, it’s my turn!  I am following my friend, Lyli’s lead and sharing a bit about why I blog and what my process looks like from this side of the computer!

 

Why do I write?

Let me be perfectly honest with you. I never set out to be a “blogger.” I am a teacher, so I’m no stranger to writing [lesson plans, report cards, notes home, newsletters, etc.]. My career path changed a bit when I went from being a self-contained teacher, to an instructional specialist. Bet you can guess the area of specialization-writing! Teaching and coaching students and teachers the methods and ideology of Writer’s Workshop quickly became my sweet spot. Wouldn’t you know, I began learning and rehearsing new writing strategies. In the process, I fell in love with some incredible writing experts.

Here’s the other thing–my memory stinks (Olympic level)–and I thought writing down the lessons I was learning might help me remember them.  A few friends were faithful bloggers who encouraged me to give it a try. With quite a bit of hand-holding, I set up a free blog and began sporadically hitting publish.

 

How does my work differ from others of its genre?

I don’t know that it’s dramatically different from other writers, but I do know I write out of the lessons I’m learning in the moment. Otherwise, I would just be forcing words out for the sake of a post, and that’s not my style. But, I do believe that we are uniquely gifted with talents (and entrusted with experiences) that others can relate to-if given the opportunity! There’s just something to be said about community: the place where we can come together, relate with one another, and feel the freedom to share our story. That’s my desire for my blog-to be a place that feels as comfortable as having a glass of hot tea together. A familiar place. A safe place. A place where hope is not deferred…afterall, that makes the heart sick!

 

What am I writing or working on?

Currently, I am working on being an attentive mom to my three precious children. In a few moments of mothering, an occasional prompting moves me and I’ll sit down and write. Those moments are mostly filled with running children here, there and everywhere…making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, listening to the sounds of an electric guitar, and smiling as I pull random objects from the dryer. These moments are invaluable and I want to capitalize on the hearts set in front of me.

One other thing…I accepted the challenge to read the bible in 90 days, and I’m on day 79!! Since my writing inspiration comes from studying the Word, and watching for God moments, this is a great writing harvest…and one day I might even write about them!

 

How does my writing process work?

I am a simple gal-both in thought and processes. My process sometimes begins as I toss and turn in bed, or when I’m brushing my teeth. I literally rehearse a blog post-or a teaching-in my head for days before I ever flesh it out on paper. Sometimes I scribble a phrase or word picture in my writer’s notebook, on a church bulletin, or even on a crumpled receipt.

From my early years, beginning when I was about 8, I used to wake up with words. Back then, the words usually formed a poem of some kind. As I grew, those words would disappear from my mind if I didn’t stop-right then-and write them down. It’s still that way for me. I know when a thought is given to me, and if I’ve been rehearsing it, I need to pause and write it down. Sometimes those words/phrases just collect dust, but I’ve learned to take those thoughts captive.

I start with words or phrases–those ruminate and then {suddenly} God gives me an analogy that is unexpected. Then the pieces fit together with previous thoughts, and ultimately become a post. I don’t revise and edit my writing much (but you could probably already tell that from reading this piece). I do one reread, or ask a friend to read it for clarity, and then I publish the post.

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As part of this blog hop, I’d like to introduce you to a few of my blogging friends? These women {their writing, blogging, and vulnerable hearts} encourage me, challenge me, and inspire me as a writer. Do yourself a favor and get to know them by exploring their blogs!

 

Shelly Vaughn

I don’t recall how long I’ve known Shelly, but I know her in real life! Our stories had taken a similar turn, and I began praying for her…not because I knew her, but because I volunteered with her late mother. As I prayed, I began to develop a love for Shelly. I already knew that she was a gifted bible teacher, but what I didn’t know was how much our stories needed each other. How together we would sharpen each other in thought, heart and spirit!

Shelly is an amazing mother to one son, one dog, and all the students that walk in and out of her classroom. She is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others by way of loving well. Her writing will challenge you, encourage you and inspire you!

Josie Barone

Josie has a heart for sharing her faith journey with her friends, family and blog subscribers. She happens to be another blogging friend that I know in “real” life. She is the first person to confess her need for Jesus, and she has a unique ability to take the small moments (things I tend to take for granted) and connect it with what God is teaching her. She shares out of her own life and her own learning. For this reason, you will feel at home as you read her posts.

Josie is the mother of three daughters, the wife to Bill and a friend to many.  Josie laughs at herself and will laugh along with you, but she’ll also be the first one to assist a friend in need. Her heart for Jesus and others will be a comfort to you as you read her blog.

Christina Hernandez

Christina is a lover of Jesus, mother to one beautiful daughter, and a friend to many. She studies and listens to more sermons than anyone I know. She’s strong because she is constantly exercising her faith. She is not afraid to ask Jesus into the deepest parts of her spirit and story–and you will know that the minute you read her blog. She shares from an authentic place-a place that is both refreshing and familiar.  I’ve known her {also in “real” life} forever, and even so, I still feel an excitement when I see she has published a post. If you ever need advice on a great book to read, sermon series to download, or help with developing your blog…this is your lady. She’s great at what she does and if she didn’t create my blog–I wouldn’t have much of a page!

 

Go ahead. Browse through their blogs, and when you are there–leave an encouraging comment. {Bloggers love encouraging comments–hint, hint ;)}

 

What about you? What blogs do you love to read?