Books by Elaine Littau

Month One is Almost Over

2012-01-28T16:55:00.000-06:00

January is almost over. 2012...wow...What did you choose for your goals this year? You will notice that I didn't say, New Years' Resolution. The goal is something that we hold to instead of dismiss as something easily let go. Indulge me here. Take a moment to set at least three goals. I will state mine here:
1. Live my life in a way that there is not doubt that I have been rescued by God and never back down from the message that I am nothing without my Lord Jesus Christ. I will strive to live in the joy of my salvation and not neglect inviting others to come to God's table that he has made available to all mankind.

2. Strive to make sure that everyone I am connected to knows that I care about them. Because I care about them, I will speak the truth in love.

3. Follow the Lord's leading in all things I do whether it is loving my husband, family, and friends, promoting and selling books and writing more books.

Set your goals if you haven't already. I am excited about what God is going to do in us.

Today I would like to introduce you to another author friend of mine.

“Nap-Nap, Quack-Quack”
D.G. Bahtuoh
Children’s
http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Creative-Impact/179032838802420

1. How long have you been an author and when did the desire to write (the writing bug) bite?

Writing is a creative outlet for me that I feel inspired to do. There are so many wonderful stories to be told, I am honored to be able to write the few which are given to me. I have enjoyed books all of my life so creating a few has been a wonderful experience for me! I’m 32, and I’ve been writing all my life, when time permitted of course.

This particular story idea came as they usually do, when I least expect them. I have never been inspired, nor motivated to write children’s literature until my daughter was born, a little over a year ago. Since that time my passion for child literacy and development, motivated me to think creatively about how to introduce certain things to my daughter, and how to teach her in creative ways; whether it be via original silly songs, stories written in cadence, or counting everything around her bedroom. The stories I write are efficient, functional, and novel, packed with stimulation, for successful child development.

2. Why did you choose the genre you write in? Are there plans to write in another genre?

First it is important to say that I write what I am inspired to write. Second, it’s important to understand that my writing serves many purposes; to entertain, and to inform. When it comes to children’s literature, I write to empower kids, to promote a lifelong love of literacy!

I write from experience, I always use supporting details. I stay in control of the topic, and write showing insight. I use fresh and original ideas; I have a genuine interest in people. Because of that interest my inspirations come from all things far and wide, music, food, my favorite color… all in an entertaining way.

I don’t place myself in a box. I subscribe to creative writing; I subscribe to the concept of being a storyteller. I try to entertain, and enlighten. I’ve written adult fiction, I continue to write poetry and spoken word, I have been inspired to write historical fiction. As of today, “Nap-Nap, Quack-Quack” is the first to be published.

3. Please tell about each title here:

Maggie is the character in the story, a baby duckling, who becomes frustrated because nap time takes away from playtime. It’s a story that addresses sleep time frustrations, and empathizes with parents. Maggie’s parents find the perfect routine to get Maggie down for her nap.

4. Do you do speaking engagements? Tell about your subject matter.

I have done speaking engagements, related to other topics. I have a long history working in municipal government, and nonprofit organizations dedicated to domestic and international social change.

I was on a coordinating committee in Minneapolis, for an umbrella group of local students who are civically engaged. I have also done major work in promoting diversity of all kinds by inspiring and supporting a culture of inclusion

Unfortunately I have yet to speak directly to kids, other than story time readings.

5. What has been your most rewarding experience as an author?

More than 15% of the children in the United States alone lives in poverty. These kids have very little access to age appropriate books in their homes. Some have no books at all. Recent studies confirm that the availability of reading material is the strongest predictor of a child's academic achievement.

I have and continue to donate books to deserving kids. However, the most rewarding experience has been donating a copy of Nap-Nap, Quack-Quack to poorer kids in developing countries. I recently donated a copy to the student Library at a secondary school in Tanzania called Peace House Secondary School, a tuition free school that educates Tanzania’s orphans.

6. Where can your books be purchased?

More information on Nap-Nap, Quack-Quack can be found via my publisher, Tate Publishing & Enterprises http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-61346-432-8

Consumers can also find it at their local bookstores, like Barnes & Noble or Border’s. It is also available with major online retailers like amazon.com
7. How can readers reach you through twitter? through facebook? through your blog? through your website?
Readers can stay informed and up to date by following me on
Facebook, fan page - http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Creative-Impact/179032838802420

Twitter - @DGBahtuohWrites
Email me – d.g.bahtuoh@gmail.com

8. What was your biggest surprise at being an author?

The biggest surprise was the fact that I faced no real struggles! The entire process has been very effortless. Do I expect every project to go as smoothly as this one, sure! No, I am kidding.
I think you have to take challenges one at a time and deal with each one individually. Fortunately I have not faced any real challenges with respect to my creative process nor did I throughout the production process for Nap-Nap, Quack-Quack.

Although writing can be very solitary, the act of publishing a book is not! I give a lot of credit to Tate Publishing & Enterprises. The staff members at Tate I worked with on this project were extremely patient. Moreover, they embraced my overall vision for this book; my acquisitions editor, to my conceptual editor, my illustrations team who did a phenomenal job making this story come alive, and my narrator who did a great job pacing the story, for the audio version of the book.

9. We all know that writing can be a lonely occupation, what do your family and friends do to lift you up when you are down?

I have a great support system; from family to friends. Becoming a published author has been shocking to many because not many people knew of my passion for writing! I didn’t trust my inspirations, my ideas or my creative process. So everything I have ever written went in my personal library.

That’s why I have to encourage aspiring writers to be true to themselves, and most important, be true to their creative process, and have fun! Keep pushing to not only be the best writer, but to learn the industry overall. Also, be advised, rejections aren’t personal! Rejections come for many reasons. Don’t take them personal; look at them as opportunities to share your story with someone else.

10. What was your favorite toy as a child?

Funny you ask this (insert big smile here!). This toy was my favorite for many reasons, the two I will share are because one, it came as a Birthday gift from my Aunt (my mother’s sister). She, I, and my twin sister share a summer birthday. I can remember as a child she would take us to us to get Ice Cream Sundaes to celebrate.

But one very memorable birthday gift from her was an Optimus Prime toy. I was a huge Transformers fan as a little boy. Optimus Prime was my favorite. He’s the leader of the Autobots , a group of transforming robots. He was a robot that transformed into a big rig truck. He is characterized as a brave, powerful, wise and compassionate leader who puts his talent to use to improve the lives around him. I can remember unwrapping the gift partly, and getting a glimpse of the truck, and seeing everything red and blue. I tore the remainder of the package and played with it for as long as I can remember. Thanks for this memory, and thank you again Auntie for the best gift ever!

TIps for Marketing Your Book

2012-01-26T21:30:00.000-06:00

Marketing Tips: Installment #2

Let's Talk About Websites

by Elaine Littau

As an author, whether you are self-published, published by a large or small publisher, or have a lot of money at your disposal for marketing; you need a website. In the first installment the need for a website was approached. This time I would like to break down the elements that I have found important in a website.

First, you need to think about the style and feeling you want to evoke in your website. My books, for the most part, are Christian Western Fiction. You will find a stack of old books on the top left hand side, browntones and old fashioned fonts.

Resist the urge to add a flash page as your beginning page. I opted for that design a couple of times. In the report that breaks down which pages readers are visiting, everytime I had the flash opening, it was the page that was opened and also closed. That meant that the only thing that was seen of my website was the title. If you don't understand what a flashpage is. It is like a pop up that flashes the name of the website. The reader has to hit the close button to turn it off. The report showed me that it was annoying and not the cute and interesting thing I wanted it to be.

Resist the urge to add music to your site. I know that a lot of people will tell you that you have to have music. Think about it. We all have differing tastes in music. If it is a style a reader doesn't like, they will exit quickly. Don't think that elevator music or calming music will work. It is best to not have any music.

The website address is also important. Mine is elainelittau.com. Using your author name helps people find your website. Unless you are only going to write one book, don't use your book title for your website. Nansjourney.com would severely limit who would find me in search engines because I have written 6 other books since Nan's Journey.

Your opening page is very important. A lot of people will not go to a second page so this page has to have the most important elements:

• Your photo

• A statement about you as a writer. I wrote something like, "Welcome, my major focus as an author is writing interesting books that are unpredictable and inspiring." I also mention that I love to speak publically, I am a marketing coach, and ask for those who would like to contact me personally to click on the link to my email. (elainel45@msn.com) Your statement will be different than mine.

• I like to have my latest book trailer soon after my author statement. A great place to get a really good book trailer package done is with Apex Reviews. They produce a great trailer, do reviews of your book on several sites like amazon.com and facebook, Youtube and other places. They also do a press release and give you a copy. They give you the file to download to your blogs and website as well as your personal Youtube page and facebook pages. I did my last one on a special sale that was less than $50.

• Tell the visitor what it is you want them to do. I wrote:

Buy my book

Buy my book

Buy my book

Buy my book

I then place a paypal shopping cart with my book covers and prices listed directly under the appeal.

• Also have a place where they can automatically sign up for your newsletter.

• You will want your shopping cart on the opening page as well as several of your other pages or tabs.

• You will want to list your free offers and tell them to look them over on the tab marked 'free stuff'.

• You will want a list of links to: How to purchase your books on amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, smashwords.com and others. (Click on them and be sure that they work.)

• You will want to add your links to your blog(s)

You will want other pages. Some of them will be:

• Author bio

• A tab for each book. This should contain the cover and book description as well as the paypal shopping cart for all books and products.

• An Events tab listing where you will be doing book events and signings in the future. Keep this updated and add maps if you have that option.

• A Tab that says "Book Me for an Event". In this tab have a link to your email and options for times and dates. Vista print has a form that they offer that fills in times and dates. I have 1st choice, 2nd choice, and 3rd choice.

• Home school lesson plans and School discussion questions for each book

• Book Club discussion questions for each book

• Character studies for each book

• photo slide show

• Video and book trailers

• blog posts

• Book development process

• Questions and remarks from visitors.

• Other pages you can have are -cartoons about books, between the book chapters, the sky is the limit.

Be sure to keep your website current. Offer a good sale periodically. Let the visitors engage with you.

Review for Cordon Bleu by Tony Angelo

2012-01-19T17:38:00.003-06:00

Cordon Bleu by Tony Angelo is a story for school aged children and YA. The positive message in this book is something all school children need to hear and think about. I think that reading about how the main character, Carl, deals with peer pressure will help the student to know how they can get through the mine fields at school as well.

Book Review of "Remember Me" by Sanela Ramic Jurich

2012-01-19T10:40:00.000-06:00

Before I read "Remember Me", I did an interview for this blog with the author, Sanela Ramic Jurich. The responses to my questions put to this author stunned me. After reading the book, I was even more amazed.

You see, Sanela is a very positive person who has live through probably the most horrible things that could happen in life. I urge you to read this book to awaken compassion for areas of the world that are going through horrific events.

"Remember Me" is a tender love story set in a background of unrest and destruction. Strong family connections are vital to survival in the circumstances of the characters. It is a thought provoking book that will result in meaningful conversations with loved ones and friends.

I read my copy on my Kindle. It is also available in paperback version on amazon.com and other places on the web. Check out her interview with me on http://nansjourney.blogspot.com

Never Too Close & interview with Aileen Stewart

2012-01-19T10:24:00.000-06:00

There are many times when I think about my family and friends who mean so much to me. I tend to hold them close to my heart.

My little boys would pull away from me when they were toddlers and feel that I was holding them too close. I just wanted to keep on squeezing them and breathing in their 'little boy sweetness/toughness'. There was nothing like it.

I had to release them and let them go on their way to their next adventure as well as let them grow up. As a mother, it is challenging to allow the kiddos to grow up. The hardest part is that sometimes they grow away as they grow up and move on.

The hope is that when they come home for visits, they find love, home, and happy memories. I hope they find a mother and daddy full of the love of God.

I pray that they see that love pulls them into our heart from their first breath and after it is planted, it never goes away. It doesn't matter how many miles or ideas separate us.

I have to admit that I still feel like that young mother who wanted to squeeze tightly and make them submit to my will. Only now, I have to watch as they don't just toddle off to their adventures, but as they make decisions that affect their eternal destiny.

May they always realize that my heart has never let go and my prayers are squeezing them closer. My love is strong, but God's is stronger.

Today I would like to introduce you to another author friend of mine. Meet Aileen Stewart. She has written a delightful children's book that reminds me of the Uncle Wiggley series my boys loved reading years ago.

Aileen Stewart ~ Children’s Author ~ Fern Valley ~ http://aileenw4bobbyg.tripod.com

1. How long have you been an author and when did the desire to write (the writing bug) bite?

I had my first taste of writing when I was in fourth grade and won honorable mention in a poetry contest. This and the fact that my father was a freelance writer for hunting and fishing magazines and both my parents were great story tellers helped form my love of reading and writing. I spent many years writing poems and short stories, which I occasionally entered in contests, before I actually became serious about writing. It was while watching cartoons based on books, with my daughter, that I imagined myself writing a book. My husband was instrumental in encouraging me to follow my dream and FernValley-A Collection of Short Stories was born.

2. Why did you choose the genre you write in? Are there plans to write in another genre?

Basically I never outgrew my enjoyment of children and young adult books, so it seemed natural for me to choose to write a children’s book. To me there is something fresh, innocent, and joyful about writing for children. It is also a way to revisit my childhood and the memories I have from that time and incorporate them into modern day stories.

3. Please tell about each title here:

Let children discover Fern Valley, and they will step back in time to a place where a nineteen fifties small town feel brings a sense of peace and security. A place where no one locks their doors and everyone knows everyone else. A place where above all, the characters know they are loved and supported by their families, friends, and even the surrounding community.

Told through the eyes of youthful farm animals, this work is a series of short stories about children, their feelings, and how they deal with life. Characters such as Roberta and Mildred Cornstalk, two ordinary but imaginative chickens living on a small farm with their parents and brother, display the resiliency of children even when faced with issues such as the loss of a loved one.

A plethora of other colorful characters from goats to rabbits are sure to entertain with their antics and insights. As the readers find out what happens to Roberta and Mildred’s brother Edward when he goes fishing, what birthday surprise is in store for Betsy Woolrich, or what lesson Kimmy Curlytail learns when she keeps something that is not hers, they will be drawn in as surely as if they themselves were present.

4. Do you do speaking engagements? Tell about your subject matter.

I speak at schools, libraries, or clubs to which I am invited. With children, I speak about my book, reading, and writing. With adults, I generally speak about the writing process and my publishing experiences.
5. What has been your most rewarding experience as an author?

I did a book signing at the local Barnes and Noble in my area and shortly thereafter, I received a call stating that they had a mailing tube for me that someone had dropped off at the store. I stopped by the next day to see what it contained and was pleasantly surprised to find a large pencil sketch of my daughter sitting on my lap reading out of my book. With the sketch was a letter from a retired grocery worker who was also an amateur artist. He stated that he had seen a picture of me and my daughter in the news paper and had decided to use it for sketch material. He went on to say that his father had written many books but had never been published and he wished me much success.

I also received letters from two young girls who had read and enjoyed my book. These pieces of fan mail are so special and most humbling. I still have a hard time believing that people are sending “ME” fan mail.

6. Where can your books be purchased?

My books can be purchased almost anywhere online:

Amazonhttp://amzn.com/1617395277

Barnes and Noblehttp://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fern-valley-aileen-stewart/1100074715
Parable Christian Bookshttp://www.parable.com/i.Fern-Valley-A-Collection-of-Short-Stories-Stewart-Aileen.9781617395277
Tate Publishing http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-61739-527-7
7. How can readers reach you through twitter? through facebook? through your blog? through your website?

My website is “Fun For Kids” @ http://aileenw4bobbyg.tripod.com

I blog @ http://www.AileenWStewart.blogspot.com

My FB Fan Page can be found @ http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fern-Valley/10973681575655
My Twitter Name is @AileenWStewart

8. What was your biggest surprise at being an author?

Although I have a degree in Business and a Certificate in Sales and Marketing, I think the biggest surprise authorhood has brought me is the realization of how difficult marketing really is in practical application.

9. We all know that writing can be a lonely occupation, what do your family and friends do to lift you up when you are down?

Generally speaking, I am an optimistic sort of a person and don’t get down too often; but when I do, my family reminds me of how far the Lord has already brought me in the writing process. Looking back, I can definitely see a pattern of the Lord blessing what I put my hand to and this is usually enough to cause me to shake off any doldrums and be encouraged once again.
10. What was your favorite toy as a child?
I’m not sure that I actually had a favorite toy, but some of my most memorable toys were my Barbies, my Holly Hobby Colorform Country Store, and my Light Bright Set. Not only did my brother and I love our Light Bright, but our cat did as well. She would take a peg and carry it to the top of our staircase and drop it, watching it roll all the way to the bottom. She would then run down, collect the peg, and start all over. Watching her play was very entertaining. When it came to outside toys, I would have to say that the sandbox my dad made out of an old tractor tire was number one on the list of fun toys.

New Year New Day

2012-01-12T19:24:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year everyone! I hope you had a great Christmas and a Happy New Year Celebration. I find myself excited for the chance at a brand new start.

It reminds me that the Bible says that God's mercies are new every morning. God gives us strength through the day...every day. Remember that He is holding our hand and will be with us through each day.

Today I would like to introduce you to another author friend of mine. You will enjoy this interview with Mike Culbertson who writes Outdoor Humor, CampingTitle: Adventures that Bite adventuresthatbite.com

1. How long have you been an author and when did the desire to write (the writing bug) bite?

How ironic, when did the writing bug bite and the title is 'Adventures that Bite.' Haha. The writing bug, mmm...I'd say the writing bug hit me with this last book 'Adventures that Bite.' I had so much fun embellishing stories that I fell into a different world. I'm sorry, the stories really are all true. I have been an author since 1988 when I wrote my first how-to book. The writing was just ok but the layout was horrible. Back then we didn't have Word Perfect and I ended up paying someone lots of money to do the layout. My editing skills were also in what I call the infant stage.
2. Why did you choose the genre you write in? Are there plans to write in another genre?

Humor has always been a part of me and when I began this last book I finally felt free. Writing humor is so much fun. I do have another humor book written but needs more tweaking. Still working on the twist. If the publisher wills it, the title might be 'Adventures that gave me the Willies.'I think everyone wants to write a mystery and so do I. Whether I could pull it off would be a different story. The hero in my mind has been established but not on paper. A page turner might develop but not anytime soon.
3. Please tell about each title here:

The Backyard Tanner - How-to-book, tanning hides and furs, antler mountingAdventures that Bite - Campfire tales of dangerous creatures (mosquitos, porcupine, bobcat, bear, etc.) Adventures that gave me the Willies - Still cranking out the twist.

4. Do you do speaking engagements? Tell about your subject matter.

Have only done one speaking engagement and had a ball. Every year the local library has a reading from a local author to kick off the camping season in late spring. One of the gals at the library had read my book and suggested to her superior that I should do the reading. After finding me via email it was confirmed. The library posted flyers and sent word to the schools. The place was packed and the questions kept a coming. Funny how out here in the Pacific Northwest, when camping stories are introduced, the name Bigfoot always comes up. One example from a listener, "you mean there are more than one of them?" Had a blast!

5. What has been your most rewarding experience as an author?

When the manuscript was accepted by the publisher of my choice. It went something like this; Email from the publisher three months after submission...We have received your manuscript and it is currently under review. You should hear from us in 8 to 10 days.Email 10 minutes later...I have just finished two of your chapters and am still laughing. You are the funniest writer I have ever read and am willing to offer you a contract right now.

Mission accomplished.

6. Where can your books be purchased?

Amazon, tatepublishing.com or adventuresthatbite.com

At this time the audio is only available from Tate Publishing. I don't have a link on the website yet. In the last chapter 'Sasquatch the Savage Rock Chucker,' there is an actual sasquatch scream that sends the hairs up on yer neck. Skeptics beware.

7. How can readers reach you through twitter? through facebook? through your blog? through your website?

Feel free to write me on the Adventures that Bite facebook page anytime. Hopefully I will have a contact button on the website soon.

8. What was your biggest surprise at being an author?

I guess when I was called an author, always considered myself a (well I can't use that word) a mmm...master storyteller.

9. We all know that writing can be a lonely occupation, what do your family and friends do to lift you up when you are down?

Nothing lonely when I write, I get charged up from it. Almost always ok in my surroundings and try to be available when someone else is down. Haven't done it yet but if I do get a little down I'd probably make a phone call to one of my quirkie friends. Is that a word?

10. What is your favorite past time or hobby besides reading or writing?

Traditional archery, I love the smell of cedar.

It Could Happen Anywhere

2011-12-21T14:45:00.000-06:00

I was going to start the interviews of my author friends after January began, but last night one of them sent me the answers to the interview questions and I had to share this interview now. I cried when I read about this woman's life. It began so typically, but in a day, everything changed for her and her country.
Somehow, here in the United States, we feel insulated from this kind of thing. After reading this I realize that it could happen here or anywhere.

The thing that stood out to me is that she has a very joyful personality even after everything she has been through. You will not feel depressed after reading this interview. She is a very positive person. Please read the interview with my new acquaintance, Sanela Jurich.

My name is: Sanela Ramic Jurich

My genre: 1.Fiction / Historical 2.Fiction / War & Military (Although I wanted it to be Romance).
The title of my book is: Remember Me
My website: http://www.sanelajurich.tateauthor.com

1. How long have you been an author and when did the desire to write (the writing bug) bite?

I've been a published author since June 7th, 2011, but I knew I was going to be one ever since I can remember.

I heard someone say once that in order to become a writer, you don’t just learn the skill; you have to be born with it. It’s inside you all along. It’s your calling.

I strongly believe this to be true. I remember exactly the first set of books I’ve ever read. It was Greek Mythology given to me by an old neighbor. I was seven years old at the time.

I know, you might say that Greek Mythology is too complex for a seven-year-old, but to my-seven-year-old mind, this was fairy tales. I loved reading about those strong, smart, wise Gods and gorgeous Goddesses.

And as I was growing up, each time I’d feel lonely, or sad, I’d always go back and read those wonderful stories that never failed to inspire and make me feel better.

Soon after I read those, I had my library ticket and was spending most of my after-school time there. My parents didn’t mind, since they both worked. I was left alone a lot, so the fact that I’d actually enjoyed being in a library was kind of like a relief to them.

I absolutely loved reading and so, in my heart, I knew that some day I was going to write cool stories to make people laugh and feel good.

I wasn’t going to write sad stories; all of them were going to be happy and fun. Filled with love. I’d sometimes write short stories just to amuse myself. They were filled with child’s imagination, funny names, and, always, love…

At some point, I'd even started to think like I was reading a book. For example:
I’m having a normal conversation with a friend or someone, at the end of their sentence, I’d think to myself something like: She said, as she looked away. Or... she stated, but the icy look in her eyes said otherwise….

I learned to read people’s facial expressions at a very young age. It was all so amusing to me. I loved being in a crowd - like in a crowded bus. I’d hide in the back and just watch people, telling myself their stories, just by reading their facial expressions and body language…. I’d usually make them funny.

When I was fifteen, my whole life changed in a blink of an eye. The world I saw through my fifteen-year-old eyes was not innocent and pretty. It was filled with death, sadness, and hatred.

You see, I was born in this cute town of northern Bosnia, called Prijedor. Now days, this town is known for its horrible concentration camps that were run by the Serbs in 1992.

I know, when you hear the words “concentration camps” you think of the World War II and Nazis. But no, this was not our grandparents generation time, this was our generation, 1992… on the threshold of the 21 century.

I remember my parents talking and thinking that war was going to end before it had even started… the world would not let another Nazi genocide go on.

But, to our surprise, the world did let it happen. It went on for four years: Genocide, Ethnic Cleansing, Concentration Camps, raping and slaughtering women and children…

It all happened.
And so my writing had to be put on hold....

When I had finally moved to the United States in 1993, I was a completely changed person then. My dream of becoming a writer became just that… a dream; so distant and unreachable. I thought that even if, somehow, I managed to learn enough English, I could never write happy, fun stories any more. My mind was reset and it was filled with darkness, pain, and distrust.

But in time, little by little, my sense of humor returned. The writer in me was getting tired of being quiet. So I'd started thinking like I was in a book again.

For example; I’d go to the Six Flags with my husband, children, and our friends, but because I’m afraid of heights, I wouldn’t go on any of the rides... (I know... I bore myself sometimes too).

So, anyway, I’d sit on the bench and wait for them to get off their rides. It’s perfect because the place is always crowded which gives me a chance to just watch people undetected. For example, I'd see a guy talking to a girl. I'd watch their facial expressions and body language to determine whether they like each other, so my inner analogue would go something like: “I don’t care,” she said firmly. Turning around, she smiled, ever so slightly.... Etc.

One day in July of 2009 on my way to work, I'd dropped off my two boys over at my mom’s house. She had made some comment about my kids, which got me a little upset and I thought to myself, boy, if this was a book, that comment would be perfect…

And so, my mind had started building a web of events and before I knew it, I had about three chapters. The character of Sabina, the mother, was born…

2. Why did you choose the genre you write in? Are there plans to write in another genre?

Honestly, I didn't chose this genre. It kind of chose me. When I first started writing this book, it was going to be a romantic tale between Johnny and Selma. However, as I was writing it, the story itself took me to a completely different direction then what I'd previously had in mind. I know it sounds kinda crazy, but it's true.

What's amazing about writing is the fact that you never really know where you'll end up. Your characters take on a life of their own and you just go with it.
So anyway, Selma and Johnny fall in love when she is sixteen. They get separated by the war. The story is told from Selma's point of you, so she tells you about her falling in love, then being taken away from home and thrown into a concentration camp where she gets raped and tortured repeatedly.

When she finally gets out, she's broken beyond repair and doesn't want Johnny to know of anything that she'd been through. On their way out of their home town, she witnesses Johnny getting killed by one of the soldiers...

However, as I said before, the romantic in me could not let my book have an unhappy ending, so I'd found a way to bring Johnny back into the picture and restore Selma's faith in God.

At the end, love prevails and they live happily ever after.
So, I thought the genre was definitely going to be romance, but the experts at Tate said it was Historical... I guess it's a little bit of everything.

3. Please tell about each title here:

So far I only published one book - Remember Me.

I did, however, sign another contract with Tate Publishing and am waiting for my second novel to be sent to production. It's going to be a sequel to Remember Me. Not sure what the title is going to be yet.

4. Do you do speaking engagements? Tell about your subject matter.

Yes, I do.
The subject that people seem to be most interested in is my own story of how I became an author.
Others ask questions about my experience in Bosnia, and so I talk a little bit about both.

5. What has been your most rewarding experience as an author?

Getting some things out into the open and having people read and comment about my work.
6. Where can your books be purchased?

My book can be purchased anywhere books are sold: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Books a Million, etc. It can also be purchased directly from my websitewww.sanelajurich.tateauthor.com and Tate Publishing's website as well. Also, autographed copies can be ordered from my website via PayPal.
7. How can readers reach you through twitter? through facebook? through your blog? through your website?

I can be reached through my website and Facebook:www.facebook.com/sanela.jurich

8. What was your biggest surprise at being an author?
I was really surprised at how much marketing I have to do myself. I was one of those people who thought that the hardest part was behind me once I signed that contract with the publisher. Boy, was I wrong, haha!

However, I try to look at it in a positive way and enjoy every single moment of it. I am loving every step and the experience I'm gaining. There is absolutely nothing in the world I'd rather be doing than writing and then sharing it with others.

9. We all know that writing can be a lonely occupation, what do your family and friends do to lift you up when you are down?

They buy me books and leave me alone, haha!

10. What is the last song you sang while you were all alone at the top of your voice and where were you?

It was an old song by Boys II Men - End of the Road.
I was in the kitchen loading up my dishwasher. I thought I was alone until I heard soft giggles coming from behind me. My nine year old son, Denny and my four year old son, Devin were cracking up. They find it hilarious that I have an accent even when I sing.

Looking Back and Looking Forward

2011-12-17T12:00:00.000-06:00

Last week I ordered a book. Actually, I ordered a lot of book for the Kindle that Terry gave me for an early Christmas present. The book I am talking about is the collection of blog post from this blog.

Every year, the book has been offered. I never followed through and had it done. I am very excited to hold it in my hands. It is supposed to arrive this Monday.

One of the reasons I am excited about having it in my hands is that I will be able to look up all the authors I have interviewed from the beginning of the blog until now. To see all of them in blog form is a lot of pages to go through.

I like that the book has a Table of Contents. That way I can find my author friends easily. I can also find posts that I have written and see how things have progressed from my first days of being a published author.

While I don't like to spend a lot of time looking back with regrets, I think it is good to reflect on where I have come from and dream of the places I hope to go.

It isn't even January yet and I am thinking of the adventure of 2012. God has taken my hand and lead me through doors that I would never had the courage to walk through without Him.

His dreams for me are bigger than anything I could imagine. There is a Scripture that speaks of this as well as the fact that He sings over me. New adventures are scary to me, but I know I am not alone as long as I keep holding onto God's hand. He has also given me a very supportive husband who believes in the dreams God has for me, too.

I urge you to reflect on the past and dream of the future in these last days of 2011. God bless you.

Tick Tock the Game is Locked

2011-12-07T20:25:00.000-06:00

I entered the unfamiliar place and looked around the expanse of the large building. The others were already gathered and enjoying refreshments and pleasant conversation. The organizer of the group looked up. Her smile was wide and friendly as she greeted me.
Her friendliness helped me calm down a little. She leaned close to my ear. "I think this is everyone. Is there anything else I need to tell them besides what is in your bio?"

"No, nothing more...thank you," I said.

The introduction sounded flowery and a little overdone in my ears. Did I actually write those words on my biography?

At times like these, there was a mental recording with words that other people had said to me throughout my life playing loudly in my head. Most of them were made by my mother.

Not all of the sound bites were negative, but I tend not to remember the positive words so much. "Just who do you think you are? If they really knew you, they wouldn't have asked you to speak to their group?"

I took a slow, deep breath to turn off the tape player that, by now had picked up speed and was threatening to drive me mad.

They were clapping. The woman nodded in my direction with a bit of panic in her eyes. She doesn't know if I am going to freak out and run out of here.

I stood behind the small podium and made eye contact with several of the club members. It was something I had learned from my short stint in my membership to Toastmasters.

I smiled. I placed my note cards on the podium and remembered to thank the organizer. It was a good thing that I wrote her name on the first card because I had no recollection of her name at the moment.

The club had asked me to speak to them about growing a membership. Somehow, that was the topic of the year in my speaking rounds.

The year before had been speeches about the epidemic of bullying. That was an uncomfortable, but necessary topic that needed to be exposed. I wasn't ready to let the subject go.

I began:

Tick tock,

the game is locked,

and nobody else can play.

Hooray!

and if they do

we'll take off our shoe,

and beat them till

they're black and blue.

The atmosphere in the room was so cold that I thought about breathing out to see if I could see my breath. I looked from one cold stare to the next.

"Yes, ladies, this was my first exposure to clubs. I learned this little rhyme by heart in the first month of first grade."

I scanned the room and saw some of the eyes soften. "Did you ever hear this when you were a kid?" I asked.

"Right off, I decided that I wasn't going to try to fit in to any of the clubs in first grade. That decision was made when one of my friends tried joining over and over.

"Every time she approached a group of girls, they joined hands and swung their arms back and forth saying the sing-song rhyme."

Someone nodded knowingly. "I secretly wished I belonged to a 'club' so I could say those words, too. Then, I didn't like myself too much for wanting to keep good little girls out of the little 'club'."

"Ladies, your club membership numbers are down because of this very thing. There are many of us who have been 'locked out' of clubs all of our lives."

Tears threatened my eyes and I felt a large lump form in my throat. I needed to tell something funny to lighten the mood. I couldn't allow myself to be this transparent.

I took out the pictures of my grandchildren that I carry with me for all my speeches. They were good for a laugh because they were not the normal poses of perfect smiling kids, but pictures of them in their more unflattering poses. The group seemed relieved to laugh when they saw the four of them frowning and pouting into the camera.

Good, the room warmed up some. The gravity of the message I had to bring to them drew me back. I had to be transparent.

"Tick tock the game is locked happens not only in grade school or organized men and women's clubs. It happens in churches and in neighborhoods and everywhere people gather together."

"It is a form of bullying, in my opinion, because it turns a person against themselves. They wonder why they aren't good enough to belong."

I thought of the many times I stood before the mirror and spoke to the reflection saying, "I don't belong."

"It can happen in families. Tick tock the family is locked and no one else can stay.. or fit in...or ...matter.

"Ladies, if you want your club to grow, open your arms. Don't lock them. Extend love and help. Think of ways to bless and your club will overflow. It won't be known as an 'exclusive club', but an inclusive one.

"Let's change the sing-song rhyme this time to say:

Tick tock

the game's not locked.

We need you to come and play.

If you do, you won't be blue

and we will help you find strength anew.

"You know, Jesus was locked out, too. There was no room for Him, either. If you have ever had 'tick tock' sung to you, I want you to realize that He understands.

"He has never sung that song to anyone. In fact, He says, Come unto Me all you who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest. Come and learn of Me."

I sat in the seat next to the organizer, Mrs. Whats her name, and she gave me a hug. "I was locked out of a lot of clubs in grade school and everywhere. You gave a talk that we needed to hear," she said.

After the minutes were read and the treasurer's report approved, the ladies filled small paper plates with cookies. Someone brought me a plate and some hot apple cider.

I could swallow again. I hadn't realized that my mouth had turned to cotton. One by one, they slipped up close and told me that they had experienced 'tick tock,'

I couldn't help but think, If we have all experienced being left out then, why oh why, do we leave other people out? Then, I remembered that I had wished that I could be one of the singers of the rhyme. God, forgive me!

Words Flowing Like a River

2011-11-12T23:06:00.000-06:00

Sometimes readers ask me what my process is when I write. The truth is, I don't really know. When I was a church secretary and women's ministry director, one of my responsibilities was to write an article for the church newsletter each month. It was this responsibility that caused me to push through and do the writing job.

The articles came from personal experiences and lessons I learned. I listened to sermons and read the Bible and found that many things stood out to me. I never knew how these thoughts would be used in my writing, but when the time came that I needed an article or a passage for a book I was writing, some of the inspiration flowed into the writing.

When I sit to write the story seems to be a movie playing in my head. I write what I see. It is very difficult to explain, but I feel blessed that this is what happens. I find that the computer is very helpful in finding passages of Scripture for issues the characters are facing.

November is a month that has an internet challenge attached to it. The challenge is called The National Novel Writing Month. The challenge is to write 50,000 words toward a book in the month of November.

This challenge is for anyone who wants to attempt to do it. There are no prizes except the satisfaction of doing something so difficult. Those who complete the challenge also get a badge for their website and blog. Some of my friends and family question my sanity when I decide to meet this challenge in a busy month like November.

Last year I wrote "The Eyes of a Stranger" during the challenge. This year I am writing Book I of the next series, "Some Happy Day". It is linked to the last series, but goes in a different direction.

In this challenge, the writers do not consider editing or rewrites. It is a dash to the finish. The months following November are for edits and finishing the rest of the novel. It is a blessing to be able to have an excuse to just write.

"Some Happy Day" is going very well. At this point I am at 21,000 words. The words are flowing like a river. I thank God every day for giving me these words to write and the time to write them. God is good and His mercy endures forever.

If you would like to read the first three rough chapters, click here on "Some Happy Day". You will be at my website. Click on the tab by the name "Some Happy Day."

Deep Cleaning

2011-09-07T12:54:00.001-05:00

Sometimes it is a struggle to keep on top of housework. I enjoy having a tidy home so that when people drop in for a visit, I am not ashamed. A lot of things that I do are surface cleaning. I breeze through the house and use the feather duster and keep the dishes in the dishwasher changed out so that all looks really clean as well as a lot of small chores.
We have hardwood floors with a large area rug in our 1929 era home. I spot clean that monster every now and again. It is a cream color with pink roses on it. I thought I had been doing a pretty good job on it until I got a really crazy idea. (DO NOT DO THIS AT HOME.)

I vacuumed the rug and spot cleaned it, as usual, then I carried it to the deck outside and rinsed it with a water hose! Oh my goodness! The grime that surfaced was unimaginable. I stomped on it in the way I saw Lucy of 'I love Lucy' when she stomped grapes. There was more and more dirty water!

I scooted my feet across the surface and tried to wring it out that way, but it still looked dirty. While I was in the middle of all of this, I remembered that it was really supposed to be dry cleaned. I was in over my head. It was my fault.

Some people may think my prayers tend to be silly, but I tell you, I prayed about this mistake I made. I also phoned my husband and told him of this infraction. He laughed and told me that we could take it to the car wash and power wash it there in the back of the pickup truck. While I was glad that he had a workable idea, I was too ashamed for anyone who might be at the carwash in our small town to see what I had done. (Can you relate?)

I hung the heavy wet mess over the rail of the deck and prayed that it wouldn't look like a dirty dog when it dried. It certainly looked like a dirty wet dog at the time I hung it out. It rained that night. We hadn't gotten any rain all summer. Oh well...

The next day, I peeked out the sliding glass door. It looked okay. When I touched it, it was dry. I lugged it into the living room and put it on the floor. It was ruffled around the edges...just a little. After I anchored the worst of the ruffles down with a coffee table, the rest looked like it might smooth out with the vac. After I ran the vac over it, there were a couple of ruffles, but it wasn't bad. It felt a little "crunchy" instead of soft, but it looked okay.

What on earth does this have to do with God? I have to tell you that I am a simple woman. God uses these kinds of things to teach me a lesson. Hang in there with me, please.

While I was going through this mess that I created for myself, I thought of all the times I tried to clean myself up on the inside. I made promises to myself and others that I would be more patient, more kind, more loving, more forgiving...and the list goes on. That was like 'spot cleaning' myself. The spots ran deeper than the surface.

The Bible says that our own righteousness is like filthy rags. I can identify with that. If we compare ourself with other people, we might look pretty good, but when we get closer to God, we see that we fall so short of clean. When we realize that we cannot do this for ourselves and place ourselves into His hands, He pulls us to His side and covers us with His robe of righteousness so that our sins are covered.

Psalms 51:7b Wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.

In church this past Sunday, our pastor brought out the fact that in order to not become polluted by the things around us, we must keep full of God. An artisian well springs out and even flood waters will not corrupt it because fresh water is flowing out of it at all times.

God is the manufacturer of the joy, peace, patience, and all the good things that spring up out of us. If we allow Him to be this wellspring of life in us, there is no need to 'spot clean'. I am so glad that I don't have to do this on my own.

Book Review of Heart of Ice by Lis Wiehl

2011-08-07T23:19:00.000-05:00

Lis Wiehl's book, Heart of Ice, is one of those books that will bear on my mind for months, and possibly years to come. It was interesting and unpredictable. I recommend this book. The characters are believable and smart. Timely issues are raised in the plot. If a few things had happened differently in the past, the troubled antangonist would not have become the psychopathic killer of many people. I really enjoyed the discussion questions in the back of the book. They are food for a great debate.

Elaine Littau, author of Christian Historical/Western Fiction

Butterfingers

2011-08-02T17:02:00.000-05:00

Have you ever heard the saying, "The hurrieder I am the behinder I get."? That was the case with me when I was getting ready for the company that was going to come to our house for my mother-in-law's 95th birthday celebration.

I was trying to put the homemade ice cream in the freezer the day before all the festivities began. The problem was...there wasn't room in either freezer. I started moving frozen waffles and combining them together. I put chocolate chip waffles in the same box with the regular ones. I moved the flax-filled neck cooler offer out of the freezer and picked up the large package of opened spaghetti to find it a new home.

The new home it found was under the pullout shelf of my freezer on the bottom refrigerator/freezer and on the floor in front of it and under it. I swear, it looked like a haystack. It was a hot day of over 105 degrees so I was in a hurry to get that freezer drawer closed. As much as I tried, I couldn't get my chubby arm to fit under that drawer.

My grandson, Devon, came to the rescue. He is tall and wirey and was able to get to the sticks of raw spaghetti and help me trash them. THANK YOU, DEVON!!!

After that, there were little goofs like spilling milk, dropping almost every spoon I put into my slippery hand and somehow throwing a lot of ice all over the floor. How did that happen?

I don't know how it happened, but we did get the celebration going and the meal was fine. Grandma Littau was pleased that we all love her so much and a little overwhelmed by the commotion. It was a great day dispite my butterfingers.

Desolate

2011-07-25T10:03:00.000-05:00

Desolation

Webster's New World College Dictionary defines the word 'desolate' like this: to leave alone, forsake, stip of inhabitants, to make lonely, solitary, uninhabited, deserted, laid waste, in a ruinous state, forlorn, wretched, abandoned, lay waste...

This year, the panhandle of Texas has seemed like a desolate place. I have lived here all of my life and have never seen anything like it. I live in the country so we cannot water all of the grass around our house. We have managed to keep the trees alive by directly watering them. Our clay soil is powder. The buffalo grass crunches under our feet. We have had a streak of over two hundred days without measurable rain.We have broken old records in temperatures. Our high this summer has been 114 degrees.

I look across our pasture at the sunburned grass and thank the Lord that we were not part of the wild fires that have plagued our area. In all of the summer God has not forsaken us, so we are not truely desolate.

I have found it difficult to not let the dryness of our land creep into my spirit. I look forward to a time of refreshing, but right now, like the durable buffalo grass, I am sinking my roots deeper into my Source of life. It appears that there is no nourishment for my weary soul, but when I dig deep into the Scriptures and perservere in prayer, I find the strength I need both physically and spiritually.

Being a writer, I depend on this relationship with God for inspiration. Without Him, all of my creativity is gone. The words ring hollow. As a wife, mother, and grandmother, I depend of Him. As His child, I depend on Him. The lesson that I have gleaned from this 'desolate' summer has been that when it all shakes down, He is the only One we can depend on. He is our Source, our Shelter, our Refreshing, our Everything.

Elaine Littau, author of Christian Western Fiction

"Miracles Come in Cans"

2011-06-18T00:22:00.000-05:00

This summer the grands and I are going through the 12 Power Thoughts suggested by Joyce Meyer in her book, "Power Thoughts". Week #1 we are thinking: "Miracles Come in Cans." What this means is "I can." should be our thought instead of "I can't." or "I shouldn't even try."
The Scripture that goes with this is, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Maybe the task or whatever is daunting, but with God on our side, we can do...

Things that we have little strength for...
Things we don't feel smart enough to do...
Really big tasks that seem too hard...
We can reach the finish line.
The grands are catching onto this thought and so am I.
Next week I will disclose the next thought.

Please read this wonderful book. It will be a great encouragement .

Oh yes, the zip line is done. Terry and friends and grands are having so much fun zipping along. It turned out even better than expected.

Up, Up, and Away

2011-05-30T16:24:00.003-05:00

Last Wednesday I flew to Denver to see our oldest son and his family. I have to admit that I was somewhat nervous about the flight. The tornadoes at Joplin and Oklahoma City had me a little jumpy. It was no help at all that the panhandle winds were brisk.
My flight from Amarillo was delayed for 45 min. because of high winds. The flight was fine, bumpy, but fine. I spent Wed through Sat afternoon in Denver and brought back my 5 yr old granddaughter with me. It was fun to hear her giggle when the plane took off. At first, she asked if the plane was going to drive all the way to Texas. We were on the runway a long time getting ready for the take off and getting in place. (Kids are funny.)

When we landed in Amarillo, our 4 yr old granddaughter was on hand to welcome her cousin to Texas. You should have heard the chatter from one car seat to the next on the way to Cracker Barrel. My daughter-in-law and I just eves-dropped and laughed at how clever they were.

The 4 yr old had just returned from staying with her other grandparents in the Oklahoma City area. She was explaining what it was like to go into a storm cellar. "We went into the storm cellar because a big tomato was coming."

When you put it like that, it takes some of the fear away doesn't it.

Speaking of the recent tornadoes, I would like to recommend a place for giving to the victims of the tornado in Joplin, MO. The Apostolic Faith Bible College in Baxter Springs, KS is taking donations to help those who lost their homes in this terrible storm. I recommend them.
This is the Bible College that Terry and I attended when we met in 1974. They will give 100% of the donations to the victims.

Mail to:

AFBC Joplin Tornado Donation
P. O. Box 110
Baxter Springs, KS 66713.

Terry and I will be welcoming our grandsons for a summer visit in June. They will join their little sister for a summer of fun...and work... at the Littau place. I lovingly call it "The Almosta Ponderosa Ranch". (7 1/2 acres isn't really a ranch.)

Ponca City, Oklahoma

2011-05-19T13:06:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday I had the pleasure of going to Ponca City, Oklahoma for the first annual event of Northern Oklahoma Literary Arts. The young woman who organized it is, Eyvonna Rains. She did a wonderful job. She is also an author. You will want to read her books. The event was so enjoyable.
It took place in the Marland Mansion. I just have to share the pictures of it.

I had the opportunity to meet a lot of author friends that I had "met" online through our author group on facebook. These people are so sweet. They are dedicated to the work that God has placed on their hearts. Many of them have been interviewed on this email newsletter.
It was a very good event.

On Monday, Terry and I went to Beaver, Oklahoma and spoke to the Friends of the Library group gathered there.

Denise Janko, the head librarian and also an author, welcomed us. She has written a darling children's book. (It is available at His Corner bookstore at the Community Worship Center in Perryton, TX) We had a great time. The ladies were so nice to us.

I love doing events with Terry. He is so fun to hang out with. For those of you who don't know, Terry did the audio voice for Luke's Legacy. If you purchased that book, you have a free download of the audio included in it on the very back page.

If you want Pre-made CDs, just let me know by sending me an email. It is $17 including shipping. The suggested retail is $27, but we never charge that much for it.

The thing about Terry's audio...I love it! His voice fits the tone of the book.

The Wrong Side of the Tracks

2011-05-11T21:58:00.000-05:00

Have you heard the saying, "They live on the wrong side of the tracks"? When I was a kid, I did. I didn't realize what that meant until I got to Jr. High School. I loved the little house Mama, Daddy, and I lived in, so I didn't understand what the problem was. It was one of the more inexpensive housing areas in our small town, but we kept it clean, updated, painted, and had a beautiful yard with pretty trees and roses. We didn't have a garage or carport, but we did always have a good car. Our neighbors took care of their homes also.

There weren't many children on my block so I played alone a lot unless we went to my sister's house and I played with my nephew who was 18 months older than I. It was exciting to play with my twin niece and nephew, too. I never let the words hurt me. I knew that Daddy took good care of us.

When Terry and I married, we bought a new 14' wide trailer house and moved it to a small trailer park on "the wrong side of the tracks" close to Mama and Daddy. It was one of the best parks in town. We loved our home. Eventually, we crossed the tracks and purchased a little rent house and put our trailer behind it. We rented out the house and stayed in our beautiful trailer.

A note about the trailer: It was beautiful. 1975 model Great Lakes home. It had a red...yes I said 'red'...shag carpet throughout. (except for #2 bedroom, bath, and kitchen) The vinyl flooring was off white. It had dark panelling on all walls but one. That wall was white panelling with two large black iron keys on red velvet background. Doesn't that sound sweet?

Our furniture and appliances were furnished when we purchased the trailer. We had red velvet sofa and arm chairs trimmed in black vinyl....pretty...

Really, it did look pretty good. We loved it.

Eventually, we did move into the rent house, then across town, and finally twenty years ago, we moved to the country where we love our life now.

A few weeks ago, Terry and I were sitting in church. Bro. Jeff Hinshaw made a remark that brought me right back to my raising. "We used to be the little church on the wrong side of the tracks. Now we aren't because there ARE NO TRACKS!"

No tracks? True. The tracks were taken up in the past few years. Our town's history is that there were a couple of established communities that picked up all the buildings, banks, homes, and moved the location of our town to the railroad. It is weird that the railroad left the town. They say there were reasons for the tracks being taken up. (structural and economic issues)

So now what do we do? The 'tracks' are still in our mind. I catch myself looking both ways in case the once a week train chose to come through. I am afraid the "wrong side of the tracks" mentality is still there. That is too bad. Some people were never given a chance in school because of that mind set.

Of course, we all have mind sets that are wrong. Sometimes we hold ourselves back. For example, I was a solid B student. I made a few A's but B was my mainstay. Because of this, I never felt that I could really do anything great with my life.

I was not brainy enough to be a doctor or nurse. (I beat myself up about this even though I know I have problems with the sight of blood. Ask my kids.They will tell you that even if the word 'blood' is said too much, I pass out.)

Being a lawyer took more brain power than I thought I possessed. I thought about being a teacher. (Actually, I did teach pre-school for a few years in a Christian school.) The money for college just couldn't be found.

After our boys were born, I knew I was doing what I was supposed to do. I was a Mama.

Writing became my passion, and those old 'tracks' showed up in my mind. "You aren't smart enough to be an author." I remember that when my first book came out, I almost cried when Terry called me 'author-girl'. My face became hot. "I don't deserve to be called 'author'!", I thought.

Now, after 4 published books, I still struggle. I am getting used to the 'tracks' being gone. I still look for the 'train' once in a while, but not as much as I used to.

The purpose of all of this is for you to think about the 'tracks' you have in your mind. What is holding you back? Should it really be holding you back from doing something you know that God wants you to do? Step out. The train won't be coming. The tracks are gone.

Our Visit to Lake Victor, Texas

2011-05-04T23:11:00.000-05:00

On last Thursday, April 28th Terry and I went to Lake Victor, Texas for a book event. If you don't know where that is, it is close to Austin. More specifically, it is between Lampasas and Burnet, TX. It is a beautiful place in the Hill Country of Texas.

I was invited to speak to the ladies of the Burnet County Extention Education Association Club. The women were so nice. They also invited my author friend from Fort Worth, TX, Laura Eckroat. While I spoke about writing Christian Historical/Western Fiction and my process, Laura spoke on the process of writing children's books. Laura won the North Texas Book Award for Children's Books in 2010 for "The Life of Bud". The picture is of us hanging around on the Live Oak Tree at the front of the building we met in.

I tell you what, if I had that tree in my yard...I would live in it.

Terry stuck around at my request and enjoyed visiting with all the women present. There were around fifty in attendance. Most all of them purchased books. This was such a blessing for Laura and I. Thank you so much, Susan Tiemann, for the invitation. We are looking forward to returning.

Besides going to the book event, Terry and I were blessed to visit our mid-kid and his wife. Marlin and April. It had been a long time since we had been down to see them. It is 500 miles from our home.

We were also blessed to have dinner with my niece and her husband, Diane and Christopher. Their daughter, Haley, my great-niece, was also there. We ate at Marble Falls at Russos. Our table was on the deck overlooking the river. What a beautiful sight.

We also met Marlin's boss at Capstone Comics in Round Rock, TX. That is a super nice store. Everything is very well organized.Of course, Marlin is the manager.

Book number 4 is getting so close. When we got home the sample proofs were in the mail. I had to shift around some of the paragraphs to make things line up properly. I took a day to work on this and resubmitted it. The next proof will be in soon and I will check to see if they meet expectations. I have to tell you, the book really looks good. It is the same size as Luke's Legacy and Elk's Resolve. The print is a 12 point font which is the same as Elk's Resolve. It is larger than the words in Nan's Journey. Purchase price for The Eyes of a Stranger is $9 including s/h when you purchase from my website. http://elainelittau.com.
From Amazon, it will cost $10.45 plus s/h.

The ebook version made it through all the hoops so it is available for purchase at Barnes and Noble and Amazon and all ebook formats for $1.99.

Here is the book cover Jonna Feavel did for "The Eyes of a Stranger"
It looks so cool in person:

I will tell you a little about what "The Eyes of a Stranger" is about. Gertie is an eighteen-year-old girl who finds herself at the threshold of life. Rejected by her father and sent off to become a mail-order bride by her mother, she realizes that many options are open to her.
We met Gertie briefly in "Luke's Legacy" when she helped her fellow traveler, Sheriff Roy Miller, on the train in his care for baby Rose.

After finishing "Luke's Legacy", I couldn't get Gertie out of my mind. The story she shared with the sheriff begged to be built upon. It has been a pleasure to bring this character to life. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did when I wrote it. It has the feel of "Nan's Journey", plus a little mystery.

Interview with Jonna Feavel

2011-04-30T22:04:00.000-05:00

Some of the best experiences I have had since becoming an author is 'meeting' other authors on the internet. Darlene Shortridge, author of "Until Forever" (A very good Christian fiction book that I recommend) is one of the authors that I have spoken with on the telephone and messaged many times on facebook and in emails. We share the same publisher.

We were on the same schedule of publication when "Luke's Legacy" was being produced. One day, on our author group page on facebook, Darlene posted a treatment for a bookcover that her young daughter worked up for her. It was very good.
I asked Darlene if her daughter would take me as a client for my next book cover. Jonna graciously accepted the challenge with "The Eyes of a Stranger".

I have to tell all of you authors out there that Jonna is very kind to work with as well as being talented. It has been a pleasure doing business with her. I asked her for an interview and she agreed to do it. It sure helps this newsletter and blog to be more interesting when I have a good interview like this one. Be sure and tell her what you think of her work. Here is the interview:

Thank you for taking the time for this interview, Jonna. I have a few questions that I think my readers might ask if they were here.

1. We know that your name is Jonna Feavel. What is the name of your photography venture?

The name of my venture, or business is Photography by Jonna. Very original, right?

2. Now we need that website address.
The website address is http://www.wix.com/photographybyjonna/photo

3. When did you develop an interest in professional photography?

I first developed an interest in photography when I was very young. I've been taking pictures for about as long as I can remember. I really started becoming professionally interested in it when I was about 13. Ever since then, my mind never stops churning with great ideas!
4. Have you received any recognition for your efforts?

I've had several pictures that were featured in the yearbook at my high school, and lately I've been presented with great opportunities to publish my work.

5. What are some of the exciting things happening with your presently?

Well, I just finished a book cover for Elaine, which was very exciting! Right now, i'm really just trying to get my business out there.

6. In the process of developing a bookcover, what steps get you to the final product?

The first step is getting to know the author and what they are looking for in their book cover. I want it to be what they want.

Secondly, Brain storming! I think up ideas, and sketch them out on paper. Once I have some ideas laid out, I get to shooting. The best part about what I do, is that I do both photography and graphic design. Which makes it easier to get exactly what I'm looking for. After I get the shots I need, I start putting them together on the computer. After creating about 20 different book covers, I run them by the author, get some feedback. Then I alter the covers based on the feedback and there is the final product.

7. Your commercial photos on your website are striking. What kinds of photography work do you enjoy doing most?

I really enjoy commercial photography. It's a great challenge to create something intriguing and eye catching out of one simple product. I also love portrait photography. I like capturing someone's personality in their photos, and seeing their reaction when I show them the pictures. It brings a smile to my face.

8. Wedding photos can make or break the event's memories. Do you find those assignments stressful or fun?

Wedding photography is both stressful and fun. The most stressful part of the job, is knowing that this is a one day thing. As long as you're confident in what the bride and groom want, and in your photography skill, it's easy to overlook the stress.

9. What would be your dream job?
My dream job is owning my own Photography and Design business. Where I have the opportunity to combine my skills in both photography and design, and create a work of art.

10. What was the last song you sang at the top of your voice in your car?

I can't even remember. It seems like I never stop singing. It's normally just a mixed melody in my head that I can't get out.

Reformatting Myself, Too!

2011-04-22T13:46:00.000-05:00

This week I have been working on getting "The Eyes of a Stranger" reformatted for both e books and printing. I had no idea the scope of the task.
I know just enough about computer work to get into it ok, but I can get bogged down really quick. I was blessed to have a link to a free e book that told me how to reformat my manuscript for smashwords. (You can go to their site and find it and copy it off your printer if you need it.)

Anyway, the document was 86 or 89 pages long. It takes you step by step through the process. Patience is the key. Hyperventilating is not recommended.

The first task of getting the manuscript cleaned up so that it can be used by all venues is to remove all previous formatting. I had to take off the spell check, the fancy fonts, hard returns, tabs, and anything else that my computer, in it's fancy version of Office Word, put in the document to make it look pretty.

Like I said, I know enough to get myself into trouble. I did a lot of work on the document and then I couldn't find the buttons I was supposed to push to get everything really 'clean'. After a few hours of working on this, I decided to drive to town and visit my sister. I needed to get away from the computer.

On the way to town I prayed. "Lord, open my eyes to see where those options are on my computer." I was able to have a nice visit with Geraldine and then I went home and took up the laptop to continue.

Miraculously, to me it was a miracle, after looking at the downloaded paper one more time, I saw the correct symbols and buttons on the top of the page that I was supposed to select . After that, even though it took me several more hours, the process worked.

I have to say here that smashwords does have a list of people that you can choose from for you to hire to reformat. I wanted to learn how to do it myself because I have a bunch more books that need to be published in the future.

In reading the instructions, the writer said that all of these things had to be stripped away so that smashwords can take a 'clean' file and put it through it's processes to format the manuscript into a dozen or more e reader formats so that the book can be used by all e readers. The book can go everywhere and be used by many more people!!!

Today, I was thinking about what that process was like. I seem to apply stuff to myself spiritually all the time.

When I come to Jesus to visit with Him, He doesn't want me to come with all my "fancy formatting" that I have done to myself.

All my 'self-righteousness' is like filthy rags to Him. When I thought about this, I cried out to God and asked Him to strip away all the 'goofy junk' I had added to myself and to replace it with the things He did for me at Calvary.

The pure joy I feel is beyond words. There is nothing I can add to His Sacrifice. And...you know what? Now he can distribute me around the world with His message of love and forgiveness.

Isn't that like God? He uses imperfect people like me, an earthen vessel, to carry His treasure (the message of the gospel of Christ Jesus). It is beyond words.

Sanctuary

2011-04-11T10:57:00.000-05:00

“Lord prepare me to be a Sanctuary,

Pure and holy,

Tried and true.

With thanksgiving, I’ll be a living

Sanctuary for You.”

I was singing this song with the congregation of my church during worship on Sunday morning. Most of the time when I sing this song, I think about my body being the temple of the Holy Spirit. This is Scriptural. I felt that there is more to this song than meets the eye so today, Monday, I got out the faithful dictionary and looked up the word ‘sanctuary’.

Sanctuary- a holy place, as a building set aside for worship. 2. A place of refuge or protection; asylum, shelter.

All right, what does this mean to me? I began to ask the Lord what this meant to me. I have rejoiced for many years that God, the one and only God, chooses to dwell in me. I am humbled by this observation. I enjoy sweet fellowship with the Lord as He honors me with His Presence.

I have come to realize that many people hunger for a place of refuge. They go here and there looking for peace and security. They meditate and try to find something within themselves to calm the storms brewing inside them. They look for a shelter and protection.

While Jesus is the Sanctuary, He has called us to be His hands extended. In this, we are to not only house the Lord in our heart, but to provide a safe place for those who are tossed about in the harshness of this present world. In being a peaceful, content, and sheltering person, we are examples of the love of God. We are not to set ourselves up as the answer. No, we are only a sample of what God can do with a life. If we are no different than the people who are unsettled and harassed by the world, why would they want what we have?

Letting Jesus portray Himself in our lives provides a safe place for those who are troubled to find the peace we have found in the Lord. We become a sanctuary filled with the Presence of God and showing people how they can also have the “peace that passes understanding”. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” I thank God for this provision in our lives.

Elaine Littau, author of Christian historical/western books

Introducing, "The Eyes of a Stranger" by Elaine Littau

2011-04-07T18:17:00.000-05:00

"The Eyes of a Stranger, Gertie's Grace" is getting closer to production. This week a very talented young graphic designer took my ideas and developed several options for a bookcover. I am definately going to use her again. Her name is Jonna Feavel. (Contact me via email if you want to get her to work for you.)

Here is the bookcover:

I will tell you a little about what "The Eyes of a Stranger" is about. Gertie is an eighteen-year-old girl who finds herself at the threshold of life. Rejected by her father and sent off to become a mail-order bride by her mother, she realizes that many options are open to her.

We met Gertie briefly in "Luke's Legacy" when she helped her fellow traveler, Sheriff Roy Miller, on the train in his care for baby Rose.

After finishing "Luke's Legacy", I couldn't get Gertie out of my mind. The story she shared with the sheriff begged to be built upon. It has been a pleasure to bring this character to life. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did when I wrote it. It has the feel of "Nan's Journey", plus a little mystery.

Now, I would like to introduce you to Terri Burnell. She writes wonderful children's books.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?

Terri Burnell

Garden of Eden

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?

My goal is to write children's Christian books that spark a child's imagination while teaching them historical, cultural, and scriptural facts.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
About three years ago, my son Andrew loved to read The Magic Tree House books. At that time, Andrew was 8 years old. After reading one of the Magic Tree House books with Andrew, I realized the reason children love these stories so much is because they are taken to a magical place where they can experience the adventures first hand. It gave me the idea to write a book based on a biblical story in which the main characters could actually go back in time to experience what it would be like to have lived at that time.
4. What are your hobbies?
I enjoy scrapbooking, playing games with my family, line dancing, and attempting to sing Karaoke.
5. Are you a reader
Yes, but much more now than in my younger years. I love to read Christian inspirational books.
6. What are you reading right now?
Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo and the "Answers" magazine.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes, I'm working on my second book titled Joseph, The Loyal Servant. This book takes place in ancient Egypt about 1725BC. The children go back in time to experience what it was like to travel in a camel caravan across the desert, learn the culture and customs of ancient Egyptian life, and witness Joseph being sold into slavery, and then later, through his faithfulness to God, see how Joseph is restored and uplifted to be the second in command over all of Egypt.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My goal is to be as accurate as possible with scientific, historical, and biblical facts. I need to accumulate a lot of data to be accurate. Sometimes the resources may not be in agreement concerning certain details. As always, the Bible is first and foremost my most valuable, infallible resource. When other online sources or reference books don't agree, I continue to search for more resources to obtain the most accurate information possible. This can be time consuming, but necessary.
For the book I'm writing now, Joseph, The Loyal Servant, I've needed to research more materials to obtain the historical and cultural data. For Garden of Eden, my only two resources were the Holy Bible and my own imagination. At times, I get writer's block. When this occurs I usually just stop writing and come back to it another time.
Before writing, I pray that God will give me guidance, and that my story will bring honor to Him.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Garden of Eden is a delightful story that will open a child's mind to explore the amazing possibilities of God's truth. Beth, an angel of God, takes brother and sister, Andrew and Shelby, back to the Garden of Eden to experience firsthand the new earth just ten days after creation.

Garden of Eden brings this well-known Bible story to life through imagination. Join the adventure as Andrew and Shelby make friends with the animals, explore the wonders of the garden, and discover the plan God has for all of his children. Along the way they will learn valuable lessons that can be carried with them, even after returning home.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My personal email is: mag440ptas@peoplepc.com and the book website is: http://www.gardenofedenbookseries.com/
As you know, I gave away a Kindle on April 1st. The winner was Melissa Kidd from IL. Congratulations Melissa.

The author's group I belong to got a few of us together to give away another Kindle on May 15, 2011 so it is not too late to get in on the drawing. To get in on it you have a choice to either set up an event for me or purchase 1 or more of my books. It counts if you want to pre-order "The Eyes of a Stranger" for $9 including s/h.
Last week I shared some exciting news. Book #5 - The Eyes of a Stranger (formerly known as Gertie's Grace) will be coming out this spring/summer.

#4 - Timothy's Home will be a few months later. It is #4 because it is in the Nan's Heritage Series. #5 is loosely conected with the story line. If you would like a sample of a rough draft of The Eyes of a Stranger, go to my website by clicking here to take a look at the first few chapters.

Update on painting the bathtub

2011-02-24T18:45:00.000-06:00

It is Feb 24, 2011

This is an update about how the painted bathtub held up. It has just now started to chip a little. I think that is pretty good for being on there for 2 1/2 years. We need to touch up again, but it is so much better than the pitted mess it was. Actually, Terry admitted to having put drain cleaner in the tub when we first moved in. The finish was really pitted and messed up. it still is so much better.

Here is one of the original posts. If you want to read about the whole bathtub painting saga, just put bathtub painting in the search of my blog:

Monday, August 11, 2008The Bathtub is PAINTED!!!

When we began the bathtub painting saga, I didn't know it would take us this long to actually get it done, but now it is finished!!! yeah!

It isn't that the process takes so long. No, just the bathtub painters take a long time to do the work. Mind you, we are not talking professionals...Not even semi-pros. Week end warriors is even a stretch. (mostly because most weekends we don't work on the house or even like to) We are do-it-yourselfers-'cause-it's-supposed to be cheapers. (Is that the correct term?)

We were due to be out of the house for a week and Terry figured that it would be a perfect time to put the last coats on the bathtub. (Refer to an earlier post if you don't know the first part of this story.) The curing process takes three days and Terry would rather die than take a bath upstairs where there is no shower. Thus, the perfect timing being while we were away.

I do have to say IT LOOKS GREAT! Oh man, it started out pitted by acid and wear and tear. Now it is smooth and easy to clean. It is so shiny. I picked up a kit from Home Depot for bathtub painting similar to the first one we got only this one was much better. It had the special gloves, cleaner, steel wool, and was premixed! All we had to do was clean the tub as per the directions, tape off the tub surround and fixtures and spray. There were fumes, but it wasn't that bad. I am so proud of my pretty tub. The name of the tub paint kit is:Homax Tough Tile Tub Tile Sink Refinishing Kit.

How Does My Background Influence My Books?

2011-02-22T18:27:00.000-06:00

I enjoy reading and writing Christian Western/Historical Fiction. In my heart I believe the reason for this is that my parents were born in the early 1900's. They and their parents lived much in the 'old timey' way. In fact, my mother and daddy both moved with their families in wagons from one state to another.

My Dad used to tell the story of being a toddler who fell asleep on the end of the wagon. He rolled into the soft tall grass and woke up just in time to see the top of the wagon disappearing over the rise in the ground. He cried and toddled until he caught up with his family.

I grew up with those kinds of stories. My imagination went wild when I was told different events that happened to friends and family. We also watched many television Westerns. That was also instrumental in the stories I write.

One day, I asked my elderly mother to tell me what a typical day was like for her or her mother when she was a child. The list of chores before school was astounding. People in those days had little or no idle time. I like to tell a little about the mundane chores and how they were so much of the daily life of people in those days. The act of priming the water pump or peeling potatoes or gathering eggs find their way within the pages of my books. I think it gives them a homey feeling.

I also love the books of Grace Livingston Hill and Hilda Stahl. The situations the characters found theirselves in were so entertaining. My mother loved for me to read these books aloud to her through the summer. It helped me with my reading skills and provided a great activity that we enjoyed together.

I hope the books I write resonate with readers. Every one of them have a piece of my heart in them.