Please join the membership of Christian Authors Guild in welcoming our June guest speaker when she presents “An Author By Accident” on Monday, June 17th at 7:00 p.m.

Bernadine has taught ladies across America and abroad in Puerto Rico, Belarus, Canada, Ukraine and Korea. A popular inspirational speaker for women’s seminars and Bible studies, she is an effective Christian leader who works well with any age group. Her broad range of experience enables her to create an immediate rapport with secular groups as well as Christians. She was an EXCEL teacher for over 16 years, a M.O.P.S. Titus woman, and has taught at conferences, retreats, and mission trips. Mrs. Cantrell has served on several boards and in many roles in church since her early twenties. Her first book:  Her Husband is Known at the Gates has been translated and published in Russia. She recently revised it and included the Study Guide which had earlier been published separately.  The book: Bending the Twig has been revised as well and one can purchase a DVD of the author teaching through the book.  Each Sunday morning, you will find her teaching women and co-teaching co-eds with her husband, Wes, at First Baptist Church of Woodstock. Additionally, this last year she has taught five Bible classes in the metro Atlanta area.  For more information, visit her website: http://www.wesandbernadinecantrell.com/

What a treat for us to host this wonderful woman full of wisdom! Both members and guests are welcome to attend. Come be encouraged and equipped in your passion for Christian writing. See you there!

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With the sudden loss of Cecil Murphey’s wife of 57 years, Mike Anderson and Cynthia L. Simmons step in to fill Cec’s shoes at Monday’s meeting on May 20th at 7:00 p.m.

They have joined forces for a special presentation, “Write What You Know/Write What You Don’t Know.”

Well, which is it? Do I write what I know or don’t know. I’m intrigued. Or, should I be confused? Either way, you won’t want to miss this he said, she said fun filled evening.

Guests are always welcome! See you there.

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Rules of use for the pronoun myself:
1. Myself is used when the subject and object are the same. Examples:
a. I need to learn not to take myself so seriously.
b. I wish I could learn not to be critical of myself.
c. If I know what’s good for me, I’ll get myself out of here in a hurry!

2. Myself is used when you need to clarify that the subject has performed some action alone or unassisted. Examples:
a. I can’t possibly pick that rock up by myself.
b. I cannot tell a lie; I ate the whole pie myself.
c. I am amazed that I raked the entire yard by myself in only two hours.

3. Myself is used when the pronoun acts to emphasize another word (It is then called and intensive pronoun.) Examples:
a. I myself would never want to get caught in that situation.
b. I hate to admit it, but I myself am the guilty party.

*Please note: The word myself and the other pronouns listed should never be used as the subject of a sentence and are not used correctly if used in any setting other than those covered by the three grammar rules above. Myself should never be substituted for the pronoun me.

Examples of the incorrect use of the word myself:
1. Used as the subject of a sentence:  Incorrect: Two of my friends and myself found a lost puppy. Correct use: Two of my friends and I found a lost puppy.
2. Used in place of the pronoun me. Incorrect: My cousin Jeff went to the ball game with my son and myself. Correct use: My cousin Jeff went to the ball game with my son and me.

Rules for the use of the pronouns yourself, yourselves, herself, himself, themselves, and itself:
1. Used when the subject and object are the same. Examples:
a. You take yourself too seriously (singular). You take yourselves too seriously (plural).
b. She looked at herself critically.
c. He was stuck on himself.
d. It couldn’t get itself out of the trap.
e. They thought more highly of themselves than they should.

2. Used when the subject has performed an action alone or unassisted. Examples:
a. You need to study by yourself.
b. She did all of the decorating herself.
c. He taught the lesson himself.
d. The children went to the playground all by themselves.
e. The puppy had gotten itself lost.

3. Used when the pronoun acts to emphasize another word. Examples:
a. John himself doesn’t know how he broke his fishing rod.
b. My reputation itself was at risk.
c. We ourselves expected to be rescued.

Write right and get your work accepted and published!

The post Getting Into Trouble with “Myself” by Diana J. Baker appeared first on Christian Authors Guild.

Kimberley is an Emmy award winning journalist with a career spanning nearly three decades. She has been a reporter, anchor, producer, and host of various news and entertainment shows at the ABC and NBC affiliates in Atlanta.

She is now parlaying her television skills into a new career as a media and communications coach, helping companies and individuals develop and effectively communicate their unique messages.

Kimberley told her own story as author of the published book, “Left at the Altar,” which has been featured on ABC’s Good Morning America and Primetime, The 700 Club, and in People magazine, Christian Singles magazine, Woman magazine in the U.K., and Time.com.

Her book has even been a question on Jeopardy!

What an honor it is to have her with us. Don’t miss out. All are welcome to attend!

The post Kimberley Kennedy Guest Speaks appeared first on Christian Authors Guild.

Jenny Cote was the first author to speak. She kept listeners enthralled as she, fully clothed Patrick Henry, spoke on Give Me Liberty or Give Me Deadlines! Cote is a dynamic, enthusiastic speaker and author. Her series of children’s fantasy books follow Max, a Scottish terrier, and Liz, a French cat, as they travel through time and experience many of the historical events of the Bible beginning with Noah’s ark and ending with the birth of Christ. Her recitation of her historical research and the many fascinating people God has put in her path along the way kept the audience spellbound. “You will be limited by whatever you limit yourself to,” she advised the audience. Her life is certainly proof of someone who allows herself to be open to the limitless possibilities of Christ working in her life.

The second author to speak was Senator Barry Loudermilk. He, too, spoke on a patriotic theme as he introduced his book, And Then They Prayed. Senator Loudermilk has a passion for sharing stories of the founding fathers and other historical figures that have shaped American history through the impact of prayer and reliance on scripture. Each chapter in his book is a well-researched and often unknown story of the presence of God and the impact of that relationship on historical events. He kept the audience engrossed in story after story of such historical figures as General Patton, who hampered in his military operation by torrential rain, made a request to Master Sargent O’Neill to write a prayer for good weather prior to battle. The chaplain complied and 250,000 copies of a prayer card were distributed to the soldiers. General Patton filled in the chaplain on his own philosophy on prayer: “Great living is not all output of thought and work. A man has to have intake as well. I don’t know what you call it but I call it Religion, Prayer, or God.”

At the end of the conference there was time to network, talk with the speakers and of course, sell books!! If you missed the conference but want to attend a CAG meeting and hear other inspiring authors, join us for the April 15th meeting. You can get the details here.

The post Coffee & Quill Highlights by Lynne Watts appeared first on Christian Authors Guild.

For some reason, his quote strikes a chord with me. I’m challenged to step out of my comfort zone and ask some questions. What is my present way of thinking? Stick with the status quo, don’t rock the boat, and remain in my comfort zone. What should be my new way of thinking? Challenge the status quo, shake things up, stay open to new ideas. The first way of thinking is very comfortable and the second quite scary.

A recent article in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution lifestyle section, tells about a retirement community that is teaching its 80 and 90-year-old residents how to use computers. A 71-year-old man teaches the students how to use email and Google for information. A group of retirees called the “Geezer Squad” provides in-between class support. I predict those folks will remain mentally sharp for a long time.

For me, becoming proficient with social media requires a whole new way of thinking. I much prefer talking with folks or writing letters and emails. But I have to think differently to learn the social media language, connect with family and friends, and increase my visibility as an author and blogger. I’ve become familiar enough with Facebook to read and “Like.” I recently joined LinkedIn and several writing groups that I am navigating by trial and error. I have several requests to “Tweet” and join Twitter, so that it next on my list. To “Pin” or not to “Pin” is another issue to resolve. When will I have time to write?

We can’t be an influence on the younger generation unless we learn to speak their language, and dare I say, “Like” their music – at least some of it!! Jesus challenged his followers to think in a new way and not be bound by the legalism of the past. For all of us, a new way of thinking is the key to a happier life.

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March 16, 2013

9:00 am-12:00 pm

Each spring, the Christian Authors Guild (CAG) hosts Coffee and Quill, a mini-conference chock-full of opportunities for writers to network and hone their craft.

Our 2013 event will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2013, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (Continental breakfast begins at 8:30 a.m.) at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock, GA 30189.

This year our theme is “Write to Share God’s Grace From Sea to Shining Sea.” Our highly anticipated guests merge patriotism with pen. Award winning Author, Speaker, and Producer Jenny L. Cote presents, “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Deadlines.” Also presenting, Georgia District 14 Senator Barry Loudermilk and author of “And Then They Prayed: Moments in American History Impacted by Prayer.” See below for speaker information and website links.

This event is free and open to the public! We welcome members and encourage guests interested in our group to come and take advantage of the education and fellowship this mini-conference has to offer. CAG’s motto is “sending out a Christian wave upon a secular sea.” Whether you are an aspiring writer just starting out on your journey, or the seasoned writer, the Christian Authors Guild offers a home to help you make a splash! Can’t wait to see you there.

Submit your short story or non-fiction article for consideration.  The deadline is February 28th with a $15 entry fee. The winners will be announced at the end of the conference.  You must be present to win. 

Nonfiction Contest

Short Story Contest

2013 Guest Speakers:

Jenny L. Cote presents: “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Deadlines”

Award winning author Jenny L. Cote developed an early passion for God, history and young people, and beautifully blends these passions together in her two fantasy fiction series, The Amazing Tales of Max and Liz® and Epic Order of the Seven™. Likened to C.S. Lewis by book reviewers and bloggers, Jenny provides creative writing workshops at schools and universities around the country and abroad. View her website for more information.

Senator Barry Loudermilk (R), District 14 

When it comes to standing firm for faith, family and freedom, Barry Loudermilk never waivers. He is a veteran of the United States Air Force, small business owner, a dedicated family man and a dedicated public servant.

Sen. Loudermilk is also a public and motivational speaker in American history, the Constitution and our Christian Heritage,  and the author of “And Then They Prayed: Moments in American History Impacted by Prayer.” He has been featured on national television and radio, as well as numerous newspapers and magazines. For more information, visit Georgia State Senate and barryloudermilk.com

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What’s Your Story?

How would you like to be able to say that you’re an award winning author? It’s a great testament to your writing ability. This year CAG offers a nonfiction article contest and a short story contest at our Coffee & Quill mini-conference.

How do you write a short story? First you need an idea. You might take your idea from something that happened to you or something you wish for. Either way, you must develop a plot, which is a sequence of events in which the characters experience a serious problem.

Start by introducing your characters. For instance, you could have an overworked mother and an active toddler. Describe them a little so your audience gets interested and then present a problem. Show just how frazzled mom is in light of the child’s energy.

Next add rising action. Make something happen that creates tension. Your mom could get a phone call from an old friend that absorbs her attention. While she talks, the curious child waddles out of the room exploring. Even the thought makes my skin prickle.

Make sure your level of anxiety rises as you relate each event in the story. Your readers will yawn and wander off if your toddler climbs into his crib. Should your toddler probe an electrical outlet with his fingers and then discover a nail file, your readers wouldn’t put the story down. Think of ideas to keep tension rising.

The climax of the story will be the moment of highest tension. For instance, imagine a damp nail file moving closer to the outlet. Hearts will be pounding.

The resolution comes at the end of the story when you resolve the problem. Your mother could scream and dash into the room, pulling the child away just in time.

Here’s a sample story using my illustration:

Unable to Rest

Bridget sank onto the bench in the kitchen and sat Benjamin down. Her back ached, and her legs wobbled like jelly. All afternoon she had shopped with her sister for wedding clothes. It was the least she could do since their mom died several years ago. A girl shouldn’t do that alone.

Her son’s energy got the better of them both. If only her two-year-old couldn’t move so fast and so constantly.

“Woo-toot. TOOT. TOOT.” Benjamin held up a pretend pipe to his mouth as he marched about the kitchen.

His mother winced and reached for him. “Not so loud, son.”

He side stepped her arms and headed for the stool, which stood by the cabinet. “Wanna cookie.”

“No. No cookies before dinner. Benjamin Charles Fox, stop climbing now.” She hauled her body up to grab the squirming child off the counter top. “You’re going to fall.”

Once back on the floor, the youngster ran in circles flapping his arms. “I be a bird, momma.”

“What a nice bird you are.” She ran a hand along her neck and angled her head to release tight muscles.

The phone rang, and Bridget grabbed it. “Sophie! I haven’t heard from you in ages. Sh-Sh. Mommie’s on the phone talking. Quiet, Benjamin!”

The energetic child barely escaped her grasp. But the room grew quiet in his absence.

“What? You’re dating someone?” She leaned against the cabinets. “Wonderful. And you said you could never marry. Pshaw! I knew that was silly. Tell me what he’s like.”

Ten minutes later she put down the phone and glanced about. Her heart slammed against her chest. “Benjamin?”

Her eyes darted under the table, by back door. Nothing. She hurried into the living room and her whole chest threatened to explode. There, by the couch, sat Benjamin. He held a nail file in his mouth and pulled it out, as if showing it to her. It was dripping with saliva. He leaned forward and slammed it on an electrical outlet, getting closer and closer to the pair of holes she knew carried electrical current.

“No! Don’t!”

Her legs flew across the floor toward him. She grabbed his body and pulled him away, just before he got the file into the outlet.

He screamed.

Her heart racing, she collapsed on the floor, clutching her son, who wailed in protest. ‘No, no! Never touch those. They will burn. Bad.”

She closed her eyes and sang softly in his ear. How could he have gotten into trouble so fast? I can’t rest for a moment.

In summary, as you prepare to write, be sure to add the elements of a story: introduction, problem, rising action, climax, resolution.

The post Writing Short Stories by Cynthia L. Simmons appeared first on Christian Authors Guild.

ReAnn Ring, Publicist and Founder of Safire Productions, is our guest speaker on February 18, 2013 at 7 pm. ReAnn and Safire specializes in personal representation for media personalities. She is a native of Nebraska, but moved to Atlanta in 1987. ReAnn was given a strong calling to serve in women’s ministry, entrepreneur ventures, and media publicity.

Please join us as ReAnn shares her insight and expertise. We hope to see you there!

The post February Guest Speaker ReAnn Ring appeared first on Christian Authors Guild.

Did you set goals for 2013?

Does it aggravate you to have someone ask you that… again?  Is your response to the question of goals or resolutions, “I don’t do them because they never work?” Did you know that goals aren’t supposed to work, you are the one who is supposed to do the work?

Most everyone will say they have goals, but for many of us, goals are more like a wish list, something that we might send in a letter to Santa.  You know, a list of things you write down and hope that luck or chance will cause to happen.  Just as those toys magically appeared under the tree on Christmas morning, most of us also think that just because we HAVE a goal, it should come true.

There was a time when setting goals wasn’t on my radar

Those were the days of wishing I was an author.  Days of hoping I would bump into an author who could advise me on how to publish a book.  Those were days of wondering how to break into the world of speaking at conferences.

When did I make the shift? 

When I suddenly realized that as long as I waited for things to happen, I could expect to continue living the same unintentional come-what-may kind of a life that I had been living.  Instead, I could begin living an intentional life where I set goals and deliberately planned my activities to accomplish what was important to me.

One shift in my mindset 

That one shift in my mindset made all the difference and has created the framework for where I am today.  Three years ago when I decided to BE an author, I had no idea I’d be able to accomplish so much.  I look back on the journey and while it’s been a ton of work it has been exhilarating.  It has also taken a total shift in my mindset and perspective to accomplish it. If you are reading this and thinking, “Well, it worked for you, but I’d never be able to accomplish something like that,” please read on, because I stood solidly in your shoes for years.

One of the most common statements

I often hear, “I have a story that I want to write but I just haven’t got the time.” Or, “I’d like to start my own business but I have a full-time day job now.” People give a lot of reasons for not fulfilling their dream. Sometimes they have a family and it keeps them too busy. Sometimes they have a full-time job and when they retire they’ll get around to it. Sometimes they don’t have the financial resources and someday when they make more money, inherit some money, or their ship otherwise comes sailing in… they’ll do it then.

Do you believe those excuses? Do you make them yourself?

I did. I’ve made them all.  Probably my main excuse was that I just didn’t know how to do it and I needed someone to show me. No one ever did because I never asked.  These statements are excuses. Not because the person making them is lazy or unmotivated, because it’s like putting the cart before the horse.

Successful people understand: BE DO HAVE

You must first change your mindset and BE what it is you want to be.  When I made the decision to be an author, I started writing every day in my journal, “I am an author who is publishing and selling books.”  The more I wrote it, the more I believed it, the more I talked about it, the more I searched for ways to make it happen, the more I spent time writing.  Unsuccessful people believe in: HAVE DO BE. Unsuccessful people wait to have the time or have the resources or have the right contacts. Rather than waiting to have what I needed to accomplish my dream, I began by believing and acting like I was the dream.

Creating the life you want

This first involves being the person you want to be, envisioning it, developing goals and then doing the work. BE the person God meant you to be. Write a goal and review it daily.  Incorporate the vision into your daily life.  DO the necessary steps.  Develop a plan of action steps to reach your goal and accomplish at least one a day.   Then expect that you will HAVE the success you envisioned. Don’t wait to HAVE the time, the relationships, the resources, the information, or you will never move forward because you are WORKING THE PLAN BACKWARDS.

What about you?

Are you being who you want to be now?  Are you setting goals in all the major areas of your life?  Are you reviewing them daily and envisioning the end result?  Or are you waiting to have the time, resources, etc.?  How’s that plan working for you?

Want to learn more about goal setting and how to Be Do Have, even with a busy life?  Join me for a free teleseminar on February 19th with Jen McDonough!  Details are here:  Teleseminar

Want to spend an entire day learning more about following your passion and making your goals happen?  Consider attending our Called Woman conference in March and listen to an impressive lineup of speakers who can teach you how to take your dream to reality.

Space is limited so sign up today!!

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