Today’s newsletter is more update than article. I have news and several changes to share with you. (And someone tell me how we are already a month into 2024!)
WRITING UPDATES
January was a whirlwind month, writing-wise. I have two flash fiction stories coming out with Havok Publishing in March. It was the first time I’d worked with an editor, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I plan to continue to submit stories to Havok—I’m hooked on Flash Fiction, and I love what Havok does.
If you aren’t familiar with Havok Publishing, check out their website. They publish a new quick read every weekday—perfect if you need an escape during your lunch break, or a fun read aloud with your family at night.
Here’s a link: Havok Publishing – Wreaking daily Havok 1,000 words at a time! (gohavok.com)
I submitted a short story to Clean Fiction Magazine’s Windows into the Multiverse Writing Contest. I went far outside my usual style and had an absolute blast. Results should be in on February 8th, but the pure enjoyment of writing was worth entering!
You can learn more about Clean Fiction here: Clean Fiction | Clean Fiction Magazine (sunsetvalleycreations.com)
The biggest news I have is that a publisher has shown interest in my proposal. While this may still end with the rejection folder, I am encouraged. The wonderful truth of the writing world, from what I have seen, is that editors and agents really want us newbies to succeed. It feels like a community—vast and varied, but full of camaraderie.
NEWS
There may be major changes to the website soon. The “.com” model is simply not meeting my needs. I have a fun gift for my subscribers, but in the WordPress.com format, I am unable to send it. From what I’ve researched, a “.org” model is what I should have started with. Unless I learn something new about my current setup, my goal this month is to (hopefully) transition from “.com” to “.org.”
Of course, my tech-deficient self may learn something entirely different from anything I just mentioned. Regardless, I’m striving for significant improvement. Thanks for bearing with me. (Prayers appreciated! I still have so much to learn.)
I’m also changing from bi-monthly posts to a monthly newsletter. I will still post articles, but not as often—I don’t want to blow up anyone’s email!
Thank you all for supporting me and following my journey. You have encouraged my heart, and I hope that in some small way, I’m able to encourage yours as well.
COMMUNITY
Another reason January seemed to fly is that my father-in-law passed away a bit over a week ago. It was unexpected and tragic. But we had such love and support from our church family that we felt God’s comfort in beautiful ways. Our dear friends got our children and kept them until late in the night. Our pastor checked on us every day. The church provided a feast for the family on the day of the funeral and brought meals to the house for a few days. What a huge help when you’re bone-tired and sorrowful!
And always, the hugs and whispers of, “I love you.” “I’m praying.” “I’m here.”
My husband and I have experienced several losses since we married. In every situation, we’ve felt the love of God through His people, lifting us—carrying us at times—though dark valleys. We cannot imagine facing some of these losses without Him, and without a church family.
Do you have a church family, a spiritual community who will rally around you and hold you up? A fellowship where you can serve and hold others up, as well? If not, I hope you will find one. We weren’t meant to go through life’s struggles alone, and there is such strength in community.
If you have any questions or would like to talk about a church community, please email me. I’d love to chat with you. And if there is any way I can pray for you, let me know. I would be honored to lift you up.
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