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New survey up for readers. Will you help?



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Hi, everyone:

Ever so often I like to take the pulse of my readers, as it were, and this little survey is designed to do just that. Will you take a moment to answer a few simple questions? Thanks so much!

~~Angie
By Angela on Wednesday, September 30, 2009 @ 7:01 AM


for this post

 
Anonymous Dana Says: 7:26 AM  

It's saying the survey is closed. ??

 
 
Anonymous Dana Says: 8:23 AM  

It worked! :)

 
 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 3:05 PM  

So where do we order the Angela Hunt Addict shirts?! :-)

 
 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 6:52 PM  

You are welcome, Angie. Of course I don't know how helpful "I love 'em all" is in guiding your decisions. LOL

Linda--Great idea. Angie, can we do that with your permission? Angela Hunt Addict on the front, and Expect the Unexpected on the back.

Thanks for all the great books. And my hubby thanks you for the Talking Animal video. He's still walking around calling Ellen! Ellen!

Blessings,
Mary Kay

 
 
Blogger Angela Says: 8:38 PM  

Ya'll are too funny. And Mary Kay, I'm cracking up thinking about your hubby and his "call of the wild." :-)

Angie

 

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You Need To Watch This



All I can say is . . . wow.

~~Angie
By Angela on @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 3:10 PM  

Wow indeed.

 

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You May Have Already Seen this . . .



First watch the video above. Then watch the one below. Notice that they chant the words to "Jesus Loves the Little Children," but 'mmm mmm mmm' has been substituted for Jesus' name. (Red and yellow, black and white, all are equal in his sight, mmm mmmm mmm.)




I don't think any further comment is needed.

~~Angie
By Angela on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Anonymous Ruthie Says: 7:52 AM  

You're right...no comment needed. Just makes me glad I put my trust in Jesus!!

 
 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 9:42 AM  

Come quickly, Lord Jesus!

 
 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 11:07 AM  

Yet another Fox News hysteria-invoking example of yellow journalism. Have you heard "Hail to the Chief?"

 
 
Blogger Angela Says: 11:14 AM  

Nobody teaches children the lyrics to "Hail to the Chief."

Angie

 
 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 12:19 PM  

Also, as Americans, we all honor the office of the President of the United States of America. Praising the individual who holds the position is pushing the envelope! Clyde (not afraid to use my name!)

 
 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 11:04 PM  

Duh-because there aren't lyrics to "Hail to the Chief." Like shooting fish in a barrel with you guys.

 
 
Blogger Angela Says: 7:28 AM  

A quick Google search reveals:
Words by Albert Gamse
Music by James Sanderson

Hail to the Chief we have chos-en for the na - tion,
Hail to the Chief! We sa-lute him, one and all._______
Hail to the Chief, as we pledge co-op - er -a- tion_____
In proud ful-fill-ment of a great, no-ble call.____

Yours is the aim to make this grand coun-try grand-er,
This you will do, That's our strong, firm be-lief.__
Hail to the one we se-lect-ed as com-mand-er,
Hail to the Pres-i-dent! Hail to the Chief!
[Repeat]

 

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How to give a man hug


General Etiquette:
How To Give A Great Man To Man Hug

LOL! Call the men in your household around to watch this hilarious video. So true! Watch carefully the next time you see a couple of men hug! And don't forget the pat!

Tee hee.

~~Angie
By Angela on Monday, September 28, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 8:59 AM  

that is hilarious! And oh so true!

 
 
Anonymous MelissaJ Says: 11:49 AM  

Oh goodness, Angela, that was wonderful. I have 4 boys and through viewing this I found out I give MAN-HUGS!! Uh-oh!! Thanks for the laugh today..

 
 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 2:31 PM  

i just loved the hugger.....he was just great...........Gaile Long

 

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Talking Animals



This weekend I'm speaking at a women's retreat held at--get this--a spa. :-) Oh, yes, it's a rough life, but someone's got to live it.

Seriously, I'd appreciate your prayers that this would be a blessed time for the 150 women who are supposed to attend.

In the mean time, enjoy these adorable film clips.

~~Angie
By Angela on Sunday, September 27, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Kathy C. Says: 9:20 AM  

What a tough life....

 
 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 5:54 PM  

Loved the animal clip ... How do people think up these things? Too cute. Clyde

 

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You Tube Hits




Someone took the time to collect snippets from the 100 most-watched videos on You Tube and put them together in a four-minute clip . . . and after watching it, I think it's proof that human beings are insane. :-)

Take a peek . . . and see how many you recognize!

~~Angie
By Angela on Saturday, September 26, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 9:28 AM  

And these human beings vote! And are elected to Congress! LOL

I'm surprised the little baby laughing while his dad tore the paper didn't make it on there.

 
 
Blogger karenp Says: 9:10 AM  

Sometimes we just have to do crazy things to keep from going insane :-)

 

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Watch out! I've been thinking . . .



I’ve Been Thinking . . .

. . . about old friends. Yes, still reflecting on the college reunion last weekend. And I’ve gleaned a few treasured realizations.

One thing I realized is that though we’d all changed on the outside (some were heavier, some were thinner, some were grayer, some were brightly colored, some were shiny), no one had changed much on the inside. We were the same exact people we were more than thirty years ago. Same smiles, same caring, same attitudes for the most part, though some of us had passed through life-changing trials. Part of the reason, I think, is Jesus—because the hope within us never dies.

One woman there, Cindy, had just buried her dear husband—but she shared his story with us, accompanied with smiles and tears and rejoicing for the victorious life he’d lived.

Another realization I gained was that old friends are special because they know YOU. They may or may not know what you’ve achieved or lost in the intervening years, but those things don’t matter. Your status in the community, your successes, your failures, your disappointments, your struggles—none of those things affect the way they see you, because they see you as you were. In our situation, we were all acting from knowledge gained in our college years, when all of us were shapeless, untested, raw adults-in-the-making.

These friends are the ones you can meet after a long interval and pick up right where you left off. They’ll still laugh at your jokes, weep over your sorrows, love you for who you are.
Old friends remind us of what is truly important—those small deeds we perform and forget about, but that matter greatly to the ones we took time to serve. One man came up and thanked me for helping him with a school project—I don’t remember it at all. A woman came up and thanked me for taking her “under my wing” and helping her fend off “lecherous men.” LOL! I don’t remember any lecherous men, but okay. I was glad I could help, and amazed she remembered.

What mattered most to those people? Small kindnesses. Investments into the lives of others. Generous words, taking time, sharing wisdom. I found myself wishing I’d done more of that sort of thing. My husband had the same experience, multiplied. Adults who had been middle school students in those days came up to thank him for “being there” during “a rough time” of their lives. Just his being there had made a huge difference.

Another thing that struck me was that the “giants”—the professors and vice presidents and teachers who had been so far “above us” in status—came back, too, and ate with us, sat at our tables, and talked to us like peers. I didn’t feel much like a peer, but I was a little shocked to discover that suddenly I’m nearly as old as they are. ☺

Perhaps the best realization I gained was that our reunion was very much a foretaste of heaven. In eternity we’ll be able to mingle with our past earthly friends, the heroes we admired, the saints we modeled, the writers who penned the gospels. We can ask Daniel about the mysteries he wasn’t able to write. We can talk to Paul about what he saw in the third heaven. We can ask Jesus how he felt when the disciples scattered, and exactly what he meant when he cried out, “Father, why have you forsaken me?”

Best of all, there’ll be no time limit. An eternity to catch up and move forward, to learn and study and know. To worship. To play softball with Paul and chat with the animals and Francis of Assisi.

To make new friends who will soon become as precious as the old.

Why don't you pick up the phone and call an old friend today?

~~Angie
By Angela on Friday, September 25, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Anonymous BJ Hoff Says: 9:57 AM  

Loved this entry, Angie.

Had dinner with my closest friend and her husband just this week--we go back almost 30 years. We long ago decided that we're like old shoes--well-worn, scuffed, but comfortable and a perfect "fit."

Only eternity will be long enough to hold all the discussions, the laughter, the good times that friends--old and new--hope to share!

 
 
Blogger The Brazil Turleys Says: 4:35 PM  

Wow Angie, Everything I would have wanted to say , you said! Friends are amazing! Wish I could have been at the reunion, but..... The Bible tells us that a friend close by is better than a brother far off.

Some friends are always "close" no matter how far the distance, though. I know. Brazil is a far piece from most of my friends, but prayer keeps us close at all times.

By the way, do you remember sharing our care packages....rope and pully system out the windows of the Stewart Arms Hotel.

 
 
Blogger Gene Says: 9:41 AM  

Beautiful...

 
 
Blogger Sue Says: 11:57 PM  

Loved this post. I'm reading a book right now about 4 old friends reuniting on a beach trip. I often think of that old song about friendship and those old friends truly are gold, aren't they?

 
 
Blogger nkeener Says: 8:24 PM  

Your thinking was insightful. Great perspective. Thank you.

 
 
Blogger Rick Lawrenson Says: 11:04 PM  

I also thought about how those we looked up to as profs and mentors welcomed us as peers. Dean Dobson is now "Ed", and not only is he OK with that, I am, too. (Of course, he is only a handful of years my elder. Dr. Towns, however, is still Dr. Towns!)

There was the (mostly) unspoken realization that the years and the battles that accompany them have been a common thread for us all, actually drawing us closer in some ways.

Thanks for your well chosen words.

 

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Hug a Pug




Before I had mastiffs, I had a pug. I've had a couple of pugs, actually, and they really are a sort of mini-mastiff. Same dark mask, same loyal personality, same tendency to snore, same fierce defense of territory. Actually, I'd have to say that most pugs are more defensive than most mastiffs--mine always seemed like little Napoleons, while my mastiffs are more like slumbering bearskins. :-)

However--the pugs do have that cute little head tilt which makes them seem almost human. That quizzical look, as demonstrated above.

Wallis Simpson, aka "The Duchess" had a penchant for pugs--I think she and the Duke had four or five. They really are collectable. :-)

~~Angie
By Angela on Thursday, September 24, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Deborah Says: 7:56 AM  

Pugs are the best dogs ever!!! (This is another pug owner her) Adooooreable video. Gosh if i had 4 pugs, I'd just be squeeeeing all the time

 
 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 8:52 AM  

Too funny!

 
 
Anonymous Kei Says: 1:50 PM  

I too had a pair of pugs. They are the most comical, adorable little clowns.

I have since also moved on to mastiffs. I have a Neapolitan Mastiff that I just adore. I can't imagine life without one. I still sometimes think of giving him a little pug friend!

 
 
Blogger Angela Says: 2:25 PM  

Kei--see the new photo I just uploaded! This was during the transition period. :-) That's Justus (of Regis and Kelly fame) with Ike.

Angie

 
 
Blogger CFHusband Says: 11:43 AM  

in fact, another name for the pug is "Dutch Mastiff". Look it up.

 

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The Government Can



Thanks to the blog reader who sent me to this! What a lovely way to use humor to stress an important principle: the government can only give away what it takes from someone else. It does not make money.

I am a little disheartened when I hear well-meaning people say that the government should provide us with health, a standard of living, education, and retirement funds . . . What? No, all we are promised is the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. On GMA the other morning I heard Dr. Tim Johnson say that we couldn't be happy without good health care . . . well, I know a lot of bed-ridden folks, and people who live with chronic pain, who would disagree with that. His statement is only a hair's breadth away from saying that if you can't achieve a certain quality of life, then your life isn't worth living.

No, sir.

We who are Christians are charged with feeding the poor and ministering to the less fortunate. In fact, every religion I know of (except, perhaps, for a couple of odd cults) promotes kindness and generosity as a way of life for its members. To entrust charity, education, and health care to the hands of the government will only insure that our dollars buy less and our hearts grow cold because problems will always be someone else's responsibility.

In truth, my friends, the government CAN'T. It should stick to doing what it has been charged with doing--protecting the national boundaries (i.e., defense) and maintaining law and order.

~~Angie
By Angela on Wednesday, September 23, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 9:01 AM  

What a clever spoof. Funny but frightening.

(And now The Candy Man will be on my brain all morning! LOL)

And what you have written is so true and so obvious. Angie for President!

 
 
Blogger Laura in Texas Says: 2:07 PM  

Well said, Angie. I've been involved in a "debate" about that very issue on Facebook. I just keep thinking that the belief that we have a "right" to healthcare assumes that we have a "right" to be healthy, and I just don't think we do. And to take it a step further, those people believe that we not only have a right to healthcare, but that we have a RIGHT to have someone else pay for it. Again, just not true.

 
 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 2:13 AM  

Thanks, Angie. It's sad that so many need to be reminded of the truths you, Linda, and Laura mentioned. I've discussed similar issues--especially health care--with family and friends. What a variety of responses I've gotten. But we need to discuss, and to think.

I saw clips of a cartoon/video being shown in many schools (The Story of Stuff) that tells kids, among other "facts," the government's job is to take care of us. One boy showed his father the test given after the video, which included the "facts" or right answers: Babies are exposed to the most toxins, and if we can't buy a lot of stuff we don't have much value. (That one even seemed contradictory to the point of the video. But what a perspective to be teaching children in school!)

I'd second Linda's "Angie for President"--but I'd hate to see my friend go through the media shredding! Pray!

Blessing, sister,
Mary Kay

 

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Ah, those senior moments . . .



My friend Lyn sent me a link to the video above, knowing that all of us who do booksignings are prone to moments like this. Come to think of it, anyone who BREATHES is prone to moments like this.

So take a tip from Tim, and don't just pull any verse out of the air. You may live to regret it. (Though I must admire the way he weaves comedy out of an embarrassing blunder). :-)

~~Angie
By Angela on Tuesday, September 22, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Suzanne Says: 7:08 AM  

Oh wow, poor Tim! LOL Thanks for sharing, he's a favorite in our home.

 
 
Anonymous Misplacedwestsider Says: 8:32 AM  

Tim Hawkins is hilarious. Have you seen his new one called "The Government Can?" You should check it out on his website.

 
 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 8:48 AM  

That's great! I hate questions like that. My mom was always asking me when I was a kid "What is your favorite book?" I always said "Why do I have to choose? I have a lot of favorites."

 
 
Blogger Caitriona aka Catherine Says: 9:12 AM  

It is always good to start the day with a good chuckle and a warning! Thanks for sharing and from yesterday Terri's book sounds great. Your blog is great to visit because of the diversity of your posts.
Yours,
Catherine

 
 
Blogger Laura in Texas Says: 9:40 AM  

That was priceless. Thanks for sharing.

 
 
Blogger Kathy C. Says: 10:14 AM  

I think I would have just signed John 3:16 to be on the safe side : )

 

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Terri Blackstock opens the metaphorical vein . . .






I forget who said it . . . but some wise writer once said that writing was easy. You simply sat down and opened a vein. I never really knew what that saying meant until I wrote THE NOVELIST, in which I took a painful situation from my own life and superimposed it onto a story.

Terri Blackstock is a dear friend of mine--and one of the intrepid souls who went with me to Ireland last year. At the time, I knew she had some personal struggles, and I kept telling her that I honestly believe that God sends trials to writers so we will write about them, and thereby help someone else in the same or a similar situation. (Not the most comforting thought, perhaps, but I can't tell you how it has cheered me in the past).

Anyway, Terri finally did it. Her new book is INTERVENTION, and I'm thrilled to tell you about it.


Terri's new book Intervention was inspired by her personal experiences with her daughter's addictions. Six years ago she became aware that her daughter (then in her early twenties) had a severe prescription pill addiction that was killing her, and she hired an interventionist to convince her daughter to go to treatment. After a grueling few hours, her daughter agreed to go. As Terri put her on the plane with the interventionist, she was hit with the crushing feeling that her daughter was in the hands of a stranger, and anything could happen. That's when this book was born.

Over the past few years, Terri's family has been in a tornado of relapses and rehabs, with one emergency after another, and grace upon grace. But through all this, God has taught her to pray as never before, and he's shown her how many other families are experiencing the same thing. He's also shown her that many blessings can come from crises such as this. Terri has tried to fold all of those experiences into this suspense novel of desperation and hope. She's also added a page to her web site: "Hope for Families of Addicts," (http://www.terriblackstock.com/hope-for-families-of-addicts/ ) which has tips on dealing with a loved one who has addictions.

Though the book is fiction, Terri poured much of herself into Barbara, the mother who's desperate to save her daughter. And Terri's own daughter has given her blessings for Terri to talk about this, in hopes of helping other hurting families and raise awareness about the perils of addiction. To see/hear Terri share her personal story about Intervention, don't miss her interviews on American Family Radio's "Today's Issues" on September 24, Moody Radio's "Chris Fabry Live on September 25, and "The 700 Club" on September 29.

In Stores Everywhere September 22nd--
It was her last hope—and the beginning of a new nightmare.
Barbara Covington has one more chance to save her daughter from a devastating addiction, by staging an intervention. But when eighteen-year-old Emily disappears on the way to drug treatment—and her interventionist is found dead at the airport—Barbara enters her darkest nightmare of all.
Barbara and her son set out to find Emily before Detective Kent Harlan arrests her for a crime he is sure she committed. Fearing for Emily’s life, Barbara maintains her daughter’s innocence. But does she really know her anymore? Meanwhile, Kent has questions of his own. His gut tells him that this is a case of an addict killing for drugs, but as he gets to know Barbara, he begins to hope he’s wrong about Emily.
The mysteries intensify as everyone’s panic grows: Did Emily’s obsession with drugs lead her to commit murder—or is she another victim of a cold-blooded killer?
In this gripping novel of intrigue and suspense, bestselling author Terri Blackstock delivers the page-turning drama that readers around the world have come to expect from her.
Watch the Intervention video trailer at www.youtube.com/terriblackstock
Terri is a wonderful writer, and I know you'll enjoy this book! I'm sooo looking forward to it!

~~Angie
By Angela on Monday, September 21, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 8:57 AM  

Having lost a nephew last year to drug-related health problems, I fear this one's too late for our family, or is it? Reading it may also be like opening a vein for some of us, but, like the moth being drawn to the flame, I expect I will ... if only to be more knowledgeable should it ever happen again to someone I love. Clyde

 
 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 9:04 AM  

This looks like an incredible book. I'm grateful to Terri Blackstock for allowing God to use her painful experience to help others.

 
 
Blogger Kathy C. Says: 9:24 AM  

I had no idea she was going through that in her family. God's blessings to her.

 
 
Blogger Peg Says: 1:07 PM  

I'm looking forward to this one, too, Angie. I love Terri's books and have quite a Blackstock collection. She has never disappointed me.

And blessings to her for all she's been through. God is so Awesome!

 

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A Novel Idea, 2


Morning, everyone!

My Internet has been in and out for the last couple of days--the cable man says my modem is dying, but they're supposed to bring me a new one this afternoon. Hoping they do. :-)

You've heard me talk about A NOVEL IDEA, the "how to" writing book assembled by some friends of mine. You may recall that the idea was born one night last year when Robin Jones Gunn was hanging out at my house and we went to Five Guys for burgers. :-)

Anyway, Robin left my house and went straightaway to a board meeting for Media Associates International, the group to whom all royalties from A NOVEL IDEA will go. MAI trains foreign Christian writers on their own soils.

Some British members of the MAI board were so thrilled and challenged by our idea, that they decided that the Brits would do something, too. LOL--so "three men in their boots was born." Three men from Lion Publishing in the U.K. (They are the "home" publisher for my book THE TALE OF THREE TREES) are going to trek along the Thames to raise money for MAI. You can follow their progress online at this site. While you're on that site, you can also click on "home" to learn more about MAI.

So--here's to global participation in this effort. Words are communication, and we are commanded to "go tell." Sounds like a lovely effort!

~~Angie
By Angela on Sunday, September 20, 2009 @ 8:08 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 8:53 AM  

You gals are just trendsetters!

I assumed you were in Denver at ACFW this weekend, but I haven't seen you in any of the pictures others have posted.

 
 
Blogger Angela Says: 8:59 AM  

Nope, I am home working. :-)

Angie

 

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Athol Dickson's latest


My friend Athol is, quite simply, one of the best writers around in any field. I'm happy to call him my friend and thrilled to tell you about his latest book, Lost Mission. Here's the official information:


“An epic suspense story spanning two centuries and brimming with magical realism.”

Lupe de la Garza, a simple shopkeeper in a mountain village in Mexico, believes God wants her to go to America to preach the gospel. She is guided on her quest by her people’s greatest treasure: an altarpiece painted by the eighteenth century Franciscan friar who founded her village after fleeing the mysterious destruction of his California mission outpost. When Lupe is distracted by desire for a young minister who rescues her from certain death in the Arizona desert, and when her preaching in a southern California beach town inspires only apathy and laughter, she begins to lose faith in her quest. Then the slumbering evil that destroyed the friar’s Franciscan mission rises up again after two hundred years, and Lupe once more looks to the altarpiece for guidance, only to find the true purpose of her quest in the midst of her single greatest fear.

You can read the complete first chapter of Lost Mission by clicking here.

To get your own copy, click Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Christianbook.

I hope you enjoy reading Lost Mission as much as I enjoyed writing it. If you do, please tell your friends!

Athol Dickson

www.AtholDickson.com

Athol's blog


Doesn't that sound positively fascinating? Order now . . . and you'll be glad you did.

By Angela on Saturday, September 19, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 9:38 AM  

Another intriguing book!

 
 
Blogger Accidental Poet Says: 11:46 AM  

I have been looking for a new Athol book - lucky us!

 
 
Blogger Kay Day Says: 11:43 PM  

Mine shipped out yesterday! Can't wait.
Right now I'm reading a little something called She's in a Better Place.
I think you would like it. ;)
Kinda sad though. I'm kinda irritated with the author for killing off one of the characters (at least it's looking like he will die. I'm still holding out for a miracle) but I'll get over it.

 
 
Blogger Kay Day Says: 4:32 PM  

Aww. No miracle. But nicely done, Angie. Beautiful and realistic. Love the way the series wrapped up!

 
 
Blogger Angela Says: 4:52 PM  

So glad you liked it, Kay. Wouldn't want you to STAY irritated with me! :-)

Angie

 
 
Blogger Kay Day Says: 10:37 PM  

I could never STAY irritated. At least I don't get outright mad. I have friends who throw books that make them cry!

 

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Gibraltar airport



There's one road between Spain and Gibraltar. Uno solamente. And it's intersected by the airport runway.

Can you imagine?

~~Angie
By Angela on Friday, September 18, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 8:44 AM  

Oh. My. I can't even fathom. And can you imagine living in those apartments/houses there along the runway?

 

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Calling all dog lovers!



LOL! And I thought I had done something pretty cool when I taught my dogs to "shake."

~~Angie
By Angela on Thursday, September 17, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 12:55 PM  

Wow. Pretty impressive. Getting the dog to the top of that pole cracked me up!

 
 
Blogger Chandra Says: 4:58 PM  

Okay, so maybe I am not as good a dog trainer as I thought! LOL Seriously, I love to see what people do with their dogs, that was awesome. Thanks for sharing Angie.

 
 
Anonymous CS Lakin Says: 4:59 PM  

Way too fun. If only I could make the characters in my novels obey me so readily!

 
 
Blogger Momstheword Says: 1:09 AM  

That is great, no other word for it. Thanks for posting it for us.

 
 
Blogger Linda Says: 8:53 AM  

Wow! My two white German Shepards and I loved it! What a show!

 
 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 10:52 AM  

Even my kitties were impressed ... well, at least they didn't sniff and walk out of the room! Clyde

 
 
Blogger dellartist Says: 2:43 PM  

Thanks, Angie, this made my day! Nothing is better to lift the spirit than dogs who love their "jobs" and their person!

 

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The Hunger Games


If you're looking for a great read, boy do I have one for you! This (completely unsolicited) review is coming to you because I picked this book up and could NOT put it down until I had finished it. Fortunately, I was on an airplane at the time. :-)


THE HUNGER GAMES is a young adult novel my agent mentioned to me, and since we have similar tastes, I ordered it (and its sequel) immediately. All I can say is that the book lives up to the hype in the video, and I can heartily recommend it.
THE HUNGER GAMES features a 16 year-old female protagonist in a futuristic, post-apocalyptic North America ruled by "the capitol." The former United States has been divided into districts, and each district has been given a specialty. Since our heroine lives in the former Appalachia, her district is responsible for coal mining. Life is rough, times are hard, and people almost have to be come outlaws to survive and feed themselves.

I got so immediately caught up in the characters that I was crying by page 24, and that almost never happens to me. But you root for Katniss, our heroine, and for the people she loves.

The "hunger games" are a sort of survival game played annually by representatives from the twelve districts. Only one person can survive the brutal games, and as I read I couldn't help but see shades of reality television, the current trend toward government power/centralization, political correctness, and even our growing penchant for plastic surgery. I believe this book could be the ANIMAL FARM of our generation.

According to the book flap, THE HUNGER GAMES and its sequel, CATCHING FIRE (also a great read) are part of a trilogy, and I can't wait for the conclusion. My agent tells me that the film rights sold for an unprecedented amount for a YA novel, and I can believe it. This would make a GREAT movie.

So . . . anyone of any age would love this book. If you have a reluctant reader--especially if it's a boy--I'd bet that he would also love this book, as there are lots of male characters as well. The writing is lean, the characters well-developed, and the truths presented are noble. Not much spirituality to speak of, but the story does celebrate love, sacrifice, and responsibility.

So . . . do yourself a favor and check out THE HUNGER GAMES. You're going to love it.

~~Angie

By Angela on Wednesday, September 16, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Deborah Says: 8:03 AM  

yes yes yes!! i discovered this series from other book bloggers on twitter and am totally hooked. I just finished catching fire two days ago and am in agony b/c i want the third book now!

 
 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 8:31 AM  

I'm going to have to stick my fingers in my ears, close my eyes and sing la-la-la whenever anyone mentions another book to me. I think my family thinks our house is a library already!

 
 
Blogger Christy Lockstein Says: 8:47 AM  

Angie, I have a book recommendation for you, because you are such an animal lover. I'm currently reading Gwen Cooper's Homer's Odyssey. Cooper took in an eyeless kitten, and he completely changed her life. It's the kind of book I keep reading out loud to my husband, because it's so amazing.

 
 
Blogger Laura in Texas Says: 12:02 PM  

Okay, you sold me. Even though I've got several books already in my to-be-read queue, I clicked on the book title, which took me to Amazon, where I ordered it for my Kindle immediately. (I love technology! No waiting!!).

Thanks for the recommendation, Angie. I can't wait to read it.

 
 
Blogger Lisa Says: 4:28 PM  

Thanks for the recommendation. I have two teenage daughters who are avid readers and this sounds like a book they would like.

 
 
Blogger Leslie Says: 1:54 PM  

I think I will wait until the 3rd one comes out because I don't like waiting for series. You've recommended other good ones in the past!

 

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Poor, poor poodles!


I've seen these pictures of poodles, but I find them hard to believe. One of my favorite shows, Groomer Has It, has yet to approach this level of madness.

~~Angie
By Angela on Tuesday, September 15, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Kathy C. Says: 8:50 AM  

Oh my. Well, a couple of them are sort of cute but a few are beyond ridiculous.

 
 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 12:48 PM  

Some people obviously have more money than sense!

 
 
Anonymous Linda G Says: 1:13 PM  

I wonder what the owners look like!

 

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Youth Aflame Reunion 2009, by Angela Hunt


I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
By Angela on Monday, September 14, 2009 @ 11:42 AM


for this post



Perpetum Jazille



Home today from the Youth Aflame reunion in Lynchburg, Virginia. Such a wonderful time revisiting old memories and catching up with old friends. But even more important and inspiring was seeing what God has done through the vision of several people who were committed to training "young champions" (as Jerry Falwell always called LU students) to go into the world with the Gospel.

Words fail me. We kept thinking that this was a little bit like heaven would be.

On to the business at hand--I LOVE a capella music, and I discovered this choir sort of by accident. Love those harmonies and that sound! And, as an extra treat, Deb Raney sent me this video of the same choir, in a number that isn't exactly vocal . . .




Enjoy!

~~Angie
By Angela on @ 7:00 AM


for this post



Some Lessons from Dragnet



HT to Michael G for this one. It's GREAT!

~~Angie
By Angela on Sunday, September 13, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Gina Holmes Says: 8:52 AM  

LOL! I hope he was listening.

 
 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 9:34 AM  

Wow. That's great.

 
 
Anonymous Ruthie Says: 1:28 PM  

AMEN!!

 
 
Blogger Angel Says: 4:12 PM  

this was really great!

 
 
Blogger Sue Says: 9:57 AM  

Wow... who knew that t.v. "back in the day" could give such sound advice in 2009! Very cool ;-)

 
 
Blogger eformanator Says: 2:25 AM  

Well said! I like that. Have not seen that one before. Thank you for sharing.

 

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If God is Good . . .


It's an old question, and the ONE question that reportedly kept Albert Einstein from becoming a Christian: "If God is good, then why does evil exist?"

Randy Alcorn has written a new book, IF GOD IS GOOD, and I would urge you to pick up a copy. If you've never asked this question yourself, you're bound to know someone who has. Randy explains things in a simple, easy-to-read format, but his answers are biblical, well-researched, and deeply profound. Learn how to take God's word and apply it to what appears to be a most perplexing conundrum.

You can watch a video about Randy's book on the Amazon.com page, here. This is one you won't want to miss.

~~Angie
By Angela on Saturday, September 12, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Sue Says: 9:55 AM  

Sounds like a great book and one that a lot will need to read.

I had to wrestle with that question myself after MANY years of infertility. I had to tell myself daily that "God is good... even when it doesn't FEEL like it" until I started to believe it.

Now, 14 years later still no baby but what joy and peace and contentment God has given me. I can wholeheartedly say God is GOOD! And that's without getting what I asked for ;-)

Thanks for sharing this book, Angie!

 
 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 10:21 AM  

I have this in my stack to review and look forward to reading it.

This is a little bit of a soapbox of mine. Folks always say things like "The tumor is benign. God is good." We equate God's goodness with the good things that happen to us. Yet we should learn to say "The tumor is malignant. God is good." Because God's goodness is independent of our circumstances.

I was reminded recently that the book of Job was the first one written and occurred before most of the other events in the Old Testament - as if God wanted to establish and make clear that we will have some pretty yucky stuff happen to us, but that He is good, He is God - and we are not.

Okay, I'm done. :-)

 
 
Blogger Rebecca Says: 1:33 PM  

once again a lovely post, if you would be so kind, please check out my site, I have a surprise for you.

 
 
Blogger Christy Lockstein Says: 5:10 PM  

I've been reading this book as part of my nightly devotional time, and I am loving it! Alcorn's wisdom moves me. I've been jotting down tons of quotes from the book.

I second Angie's recommendation to get a copy!

 
 
Blogger Edward Says: 6:01 PM  

You guys that already have this must have obtained review copies. Lucky you! The official release date to the public is not until September 15th. Until then, as Angie says, you can pre-order it from places like Amazon.com and KingsleyPress.com.

I followed Randy's progress very closely when he was writing this book. He mentioned it in his newsletters (and also on his blog if I remember correctly). He said it took a lot out of him because of the complexity of the subject matter. Having read many of Randy's other books, though, I just know it's going to be a classic on the subject and can't wait to get my hands on a copy on the release date.

 

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Procrastination Made Perfect


So . . . Tuesday my goal was to get the first 5,000 words of THE GRANDMA GENE into the computer. So I got up, did all my morning stuff, and was at my desk by 11:00 a.m. Opened my writing program and stared at the little note cards on the screen. My job was to fill them in with scenes, lots of scenes.

I looked down and noticed that my keyboard had a hair on it. Oh, no. Had to stop and remove the hair. Had to then turn the keyboard upside down and shake to dislodge any miscellaneous pieces of personal DNA that might be hiding there. Then had to get the antiseptic wipes and clean the entire shelf on which the keyboard sits--can't have a dirty shelf, can we? Oh! And that's dust on the printer and the phone. Excuse me while I dust said printer and phone and Kindle and work area . . .

Back to the desk. Emails arrive, several of them. Yea. I answer them immediately.

Oh! The UPS man. I run out to the porch and retrieve the package, then come in and open it. A book. One I've looked forward to reading--THE HUNGER GAMES. Am tempted to start the first chapter, but no, I must write today. Set the book aside.

Oh, my, I think it's lunch time. Lunch break.

Back from lunch. Sit down, open shelf, hands on keyboard. But look, more emails have arrived. I answer them immediately.

Hands on keyboard when I hear the rumble of the mail truck. Mail call, and there's bound to be a lot of mail because yesterday was a holiday. Go out and grab the mail, then come in and sort it. Toss, toss, file, toss, toss--oh! Two books: Randy Alcorn's IF GOD IS GOOD (autographed, no less!) and Dean Koontz's A BIG LITTLE LIFE. I skim through Randy's book and find myself tearing up at the truths written there. Have to stop and send him a thank-you email.

With an effort, set books aside. Hands on keyboard, but look! Dog wants to go out. Okay.
Get up and take dogs out. While they are doing their thing, I take a few moments to water the plants, scoop poop, consider rearranging the porch furniture. No, too hot. Maybe later.

Back inside. At desk. In chair. Hands on keyboard. Who are these people and whatever made me think I could write a novel about them?

Phone rings. Hubby calling. Chat about nothing important.

Emails come in. Answer them immediately. One is from a friend who wants to know when's a good time to call. NOW, I respond.

He calls. We talk. I hang up.

Hands on keyboard. Eyes straight ahead. Oh my, I'm thirsty. Need Diet Coke. Up to kitchen, empty glass in hand. On way back to desk when I remember laundry in dryer. Oh my, can't let those clothes wrinkle. Stop and fold laundry--some of it, anyway.

Back to desk. Hands on keyboard. Wait--still thirsty, because cup, Diet Coke, and ice are in laundry room. Off to fetch them.

Back at desk. Emails come in! Yea! Write chatty notes to friends. Stop and stare at people walking by on sidewalk. Who are they? What are they doing in the neighborhood? What are their dreams?

Scold self--should confine imaginings to characters in work-supposedly-in-progress. Hands on keyboard. Type.

Stop typing and laugh. Think this would make a good blog post. Consider writing it out now, but sternly remind self that 5,000 words must come first. Hands on keyboard. Wonder about Jon and Kate. Sigh for those eight children.

Type.

~~Angie
By Angela on Friday, September 11, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Linda Says: 7:58 AM  

Oh my! How did you get into my kitchen? Where are you hiding that you could so describe my day! It's nice to know I'm not the only one! My characters have been stuck at a Taco party now for weeks! (sigh) Gotta go let the dogs out!!

 
 
Blogger Kathy C. Says: 8:10 AM  

I think you've described many of our days.

 
 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 9:12 AM  

LOL! You make even the mundane riveting!

And this is one of those posts that just reassures us that you are human!

 
 
Blogger BJ Says: 9:20 AM  

LOL! A tip of th' hat from one who knows!

BJ

 
 
Anonymous Lynda in MO Says: 10:40 AM  

I can so relate to this. Some of us have perfected procrastination to an art form! In fact, I'm reading and commenting on your blog right now - while I'm supposed to be doing something else. Ah well...

 
 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 6:22 PM  

And you are one the super-women who accomplish so much! And by now I'm wondering--how? She's so like the rest of us.

(Which, BTW, is why I'm at your blog and not polishing my WIP! Difficult to concentrate in the office-office, not my writing office. Thanks for being real, Angie! God bless you , sister,
Mary Kay

 
 
Blogger Laura in Texas Says: 9:21 PM  

This was fabulous! Thank you for sharing your day. It's actually encouraging.

 
 
Blogger sunnij Says: 9:34 PM  

ROFLOL! I resemble those remarks. 'Nuf said. I'm actually getting coaching to get over my procrastination.

 
 
Blogger Sue Says: 11:39 PM  

Oh I feel SO relieved to read this today. Thanks for your transparency as I continue to procrastinate on my latest writing assignment. I'm in good company :-D

Happy writing tomorrow... or the next day ;-)

 
 
Anonymous Ruthie Says: 1:32 AM  

Okay. Now you've done it! You've fallen off your pedestal and become human! And here all this time I thought you had the special gift of being able to sit down at your computer and type away those thousands of words each day. Such discipline and motivation, I thought. How much I would like to be like Angie!

And I am!! LOL

 
 
Blogger Gene Says: 8:37 PM  

It's nice to know you struggle with the same distractions. Thanks for the encouraging words!

 
 
Blogger Jodie Says: 11:44 AM  

Hey, wait a second. Are you watching me? Seriously, thank you. It is good to know that I'm not the only one whose sanguine self is having trouble sitting still! Ooh, look! It's lunchtime!

 

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Reunion Time

Photos: Gordon Luff warms us up on a Sunday morning, a performance, clowning around, and traveling in Korea. (I don't know where the other girls were hiding.)



If this is Thursday, the hubby and I are off on a grand adventure. :-) We're heading to Lynchburg, Virginia, where we met, married, and lived for ten years.

I should back up. After leaving the Re'Generation in 1978, I went to Liberty, where I sang with the LBC Chorale (as it was then known) and traveled with Dr. Falwell when we weren't in classes. The Chorale was led by Gordon Luff, a professor/minister/teacher who ended up being extremely influential in my life.

During my second year, the Chorale was swallowed up by an organization called "Youth Aflame," because Gordon's real heartbeat was youth ministry. I haven't been called to youth ministry, but I've always liked kids, so I enjoyed traveling and singing to young people when we weren't in class. We traveled during the summer as well, and formed many lasting friendships with the other "kids" on the team and in the youth ministry.

I began dating my hubby-to-be, you guessed it, a youth minister, and we married in 1980. Hubby served on the youth staff at the church in Lynchburg until 1987, when we moved to Florida.

Anyway--through Facebook, about a year ago several of us reconnected, and soon plans were being laid for a grand reunion of Gordon Luff, his family, and everyone who had ever been involved with any facet of Youth Aflame--and that's hundreds of people. So we are coming together this weekend to share, and I already know there are some great stories waiting to be told. We've lost some members as some folks have already gone home to heaven. We've had some who've spent the last few years "underground" in mission fields where they're not allowed to publicly proclaim the name of Christ. Lots of stories, lots of old friends.

We also have friends who became dear to us while we lived in Lynchburg, of course, so we're also looking forward to reconnecting with them. I've been back to the campus a few times in the past few years, but hubby hasn't. This will be fun.

So--we're off! Looking forward to being motivated and inspired all over again.

~~Angie
By Angela on Thursday, September 10, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Leslie Says: 8:28 AM  

What a grand idea! Have a wonderfully blessed time of fellowship.

 
 
Blogger Sue Says: 11:27 AM  

How fun Angie! We have family friends who went to Liberty and I would imagine around that time. Do you know Steve and Georgie Kearns at all? (Not sure what Georgie's maiden name was)

 
 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 12:53 PM  

Have a wonderful time!

 
 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 6:16 PM  

Sounds fabulous! Have a super time, and tell all, when you can come up for air! Clyde

 

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Russian TV ad



This is a cute video for a Russian insurance company. The young man featured is looking for a company that will be there when he needs them . . .

LOL! I think he'd better keep looking.

~~Angie
By Angela on Wednesday, September 09, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 1:21 PM  

Loved the clever transformation! Clyde

 

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New arrivals are available for preorder



I've just updated my web page that features books that are "coming soon." And now they are all available for pre-order through Amazon.com.

There's the new reissue of "The Golden Cross," the second book in the Heirs of Cahira O'Connor series. It's value priced, too!

There's the how-to writing book called "A Novel Idea," in which all the basics of how to write a novel are covered.

There's my next legal thriller, "Let Darkness Come." I'm really excited about this book (I worked harder on it than in any in recent memory), and I suspect it will be hard to find in stores. So your best bet will definitely be to order this one online someplace.

And finally, there's the book I did with Gayle Haggard, "Why I Stayed." Gayle has an AMAZING story that everyone should read. You'll marvel at her courage and grace, and I think you'll learn--as I did--a lot about how the church should handle occasions when someone in the body sins.

So--I hope that gives you something to look forward to! I know I'm excited.

~~Angie
By Angela on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 9:15 AM  

You are whetting my already-starving appetite!!

 
 
Blogger SmilingSally Says: 11:02 AM  

He should dream on!

 
 
Anonymous k-stin Says: 8:42 PM  

Yea! I'm excited about the new legal thriller. I'll have to check it out!

 

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Sniff, sniff. God and dog.



Thanks to LInda, who sent this to me. How sweet . . . and how true. No wonder I get teary-eyed whenever I hear a good dog story. I think it's because they are the best, most accessible example of God's unconditional love.

BJ Hoff recently wrote to me raving about Dean Koontz's latest book A BIG LITTLE LIFE: A MEMOIR OF A JOYFUL DOG. Mr. Koontz wrote to me after I wrote to him when his dog Trixie died, and I shared my letter with his book club. We all passed it around, each one reading a page, and most of us sobbing through it.

A big little life, indeed. Found in the heart of every dog.

~~Angie
By Angela on Monday, September 07, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 2:37 PM  

Love this post. Love God and dogs and have experienced His uncondtional love.

 
 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 11:10 PM  

In both your text and in that of the first commenter, the key word ... UNCONDITIONAL. Would that my cats and I could love that way. We are at least blessed to be recipients. Clyde

 

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A Sunday sermon in eight minutes



There are so many profound thoughts in this video . . . the one I like is "God, I've let you down so many times . . ."

"No, you were never holding me up."

:-) Isn't language a wonderful thing?

Thanks to Sunni Jeffers for the link.

~~Angie
By Angela on Sunday, September 06, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Debbie Says: 12:23 PM  

Thank you Angie for posting this today. Such profound truths. I am God's masterpiece. Praise Him for that.

 
 
Anonymous Janet Bly Says: 3:33 PM  

Worth watching over and over...and let it truly sink in. Thanks to you and Sunni for sharing this!

 

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Down in the Deep


And you thought JAWS was scary . . .

Someone has gathered a list of the ten scariest sea creatures . . . and I've heard stories about all of them (I live near the beach), so I can attest to their threats. (Actually, we have no sea lions around here, but I've watched them out on the California coastline.)

So visit this link and enjoy. Just a little something else to marvel about on this lovely day in September.

~~Angie
By Angela on Saturday, September 05, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 10:18 AM  

I'll stay on dry land, thank you!

But the undersea world never fails to leave me speechless at God's creative power. So many different and fantastically bizarre creatures and colors -- and for eons so much of it was unknown to man until technology of scuba and photography was developed. Created for God's pleasure and delight.

 

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Newsletter Time





My summer newsletter just went out, and I experimented with a new format--I sent it as a pdf file. If you're not on my newsletter list (you can sign up from this page), you can read it by clicking on the images below. They should open up in a new window, full size.

Don't those recipes sound luscious? I have to figure out how to fit them into my diet plan.

~~Angie
By Angela on Friday, September 04, 2009 @ 12:20 PM


for this post

 
Anonymous Anonymous Says: 12:00 PM  

My new home in Texas came with a Key Lime tree. Can't wait to try this recipe!!! Clyde

 

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Why Health Care is Expensive



Worth watching. And passing on.

By the way--the other day when I linked to another blog where a writer was debating whether or not to discuss/avoid discussing controversial topics in public forums, I ran with an argument in favor of discussing said topics.

I want to clearly state that the author of that other blog was not endorsing avoiding discussing controversial topics. My opinions were, as always, my opinions and not meant to reflect on him in any way.

P.S. My newsletter just went out, in a new format. If you didn't receive a copy, drop me a note and I'll email one to you! It features some great recipes!

Have a great weekend!

~~Angie
By Angela on @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 10:31 AM  

This absolutely makes me shudder. I don't know which sounds worse - being a patient in such a system, or being a nurse.

 
 
Anonymous Ruthie Says: 1:00 AM  

That's why, if and when the government health care plan is passed, I will be saying goodbye to all of you. I am totally disabled and require constant medical supervision, something that will no longer happen under the new plan. And so I will die...sooner rather than later. Am I afraid? Sort of, but then I am renewed by the Peace of God which goes way beyond human comprehension.

 
 
Blogger Gina Holmes Says: 12:05 PM  

As a nurse, my concern is both for our healthcare services but also for my job. Ratios of patients to nurses right now are controlled and still tough to manage. I can only imagine what they'll be under government controlled plan. The whole thing makes every nurse I know very nervous. (A lottery for a doctor's visit? Yikes.)Right now, I'm paying six hundred a month for healthcare and that's painful but not as painful of worrying about one of my children getting sick and being put on a six month waiting list to be sseen. No thanks.

 

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Fascinating Sims Story


Leslie turned me on to this ongoing Sims story online. Fascinating, inventive, and clever! This gal in Britain is playing Sims 3 with two homeless characters (created by placing her characters on a vacant lot and spending their start-up money on dead trees and park benches). Reading through it is like reading a comic book--quite fascinating and heart-rending! I love it when the "Alice" character, who has a trait of "good," gives all her money to charity.

As for me, one of my games--which was well into the fourth generation of the Wolff family--got hopelessly messed up with a computer glitch, so I started over again. But I'm being good and only playing when my work for the day is done. :-)

Jenny Craig update: fourteen pounds off. I'm more than 20 percent closer to my goal!

~~Angie
By Angela on Thursday, September 03, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger Sue Says: 8:48 AM  

I'll have to check out that Sims story... very creative and it sounds a little sad. Wonder what made her play that way with her Sims? Hmm.

Bummer about your Sims family but sometimes it's good to start fresh. I really do need to start playing mine again... I guess my Sims took an extended summer vacation this year - ha ha

Way to go on your Jenny Craig success!

 
 
Blogger Doni Brinkman Says: 1:01 PM  

So far I am not even tempted to play this however, I do enjoy reading your Sim's family blog. :)

 
 
Blogger Leslie Says: 10:10 PM  

I just knew you would post about this :)

I love reading Robin's story - he has a way with words that is unusual (well for someone who is supposedly a gamer based on what else I saw on his site). I think he decided to have homeless characters as a sort of fun social experiment.

BTW, A friend of mine let me borrow her Sims 3 to see if it would run on my computer. And it does! I've been playing for over an hour with only a few hiccups (but not as bad as the "loading" times for Sims 2). I'm waiting until the baby is born and then I'll uninstall the program and give it back to her. I'm planning on buying it tomorrow if I can find it cheap enough :)

 

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Mystique



I've been thinking a lot about the "don't reveal too much personal info on your blog" concept. And though no one wants to admit this, I think I know where some of that idea comes from.

Several years ago I was fascinated by European royalty, especially the British royal family. Bought tons of books on Charles, Diana, the Queen, Queen Mum, etc. Read them all. Loved them.

And I read somewhere that one reason the royals kept to themselves (in the years before Diana) was to purposely preserve the "mystique" that kept them apart from the rest of society. It's hard to respect a man you've seen coming out of the loo, so whenever royalty travels, all the restrooms are blocked off so that the royals don't have to mingle with the common folk. There are zillions of unwritten rules such as "Never photograph the queen with her mouth full of food," etc. Why? Because she's supposed to be above the rest of us, she's the QUEEN.

But truthfully, she's a woman who eats and sleeps and has to go to the loo just like the rest of us. She inherited her position, and despite what you think of her personally (I happen to like her immensely), before becoming princess she did nothing to deserve the title.

Now . . . some writers are like that. They want to preserve the mystique of novel writing, so they don't blog for fear they might reveal something too personal. When they travel and speak, they want to take dinner in their rooms and their speeches are filled with bits of poetry and talk about "the Muse," as if inspiration were a fairy who deigns to light upon mere mortals only once every hundred years. You can listen for these folks talk for an hour and come out of the auditorium unable to relate a single thing that was said. All you know is that the speech was terribly pretty and acutely painful because it left pins and needles in your bum.

If one of these folks gives a "how-to" clinic, it's likely to be filled with quotes from other writers and lots of philosophy about the novel's meaning, purpose, and subtext. In other words, the beginning writer will not be able to grasp a single useful tool. Why? Methinks it's because the Writer of Mystique doesn't want others to realize that 1) he has to use the loo, too, and 2) anyone who has a measure of talent, a willingness to learn, and a bucketful of determination could write a novel.

When I started writing, I picked up a copy of DARE TO BE A GREAT WRITER by Leonard Bishop. Among dozens of truly wonderful tips, he included this:

"Make it impossible for the next generation of writers by claiming you work 14 hours a day, and rewrite everything a minimum of 74 times. Confess you have sacrificed family and friends to take long moonlight walks to commune with your creative muse, accompanied only by your loyal dog or parakeet. Research some obscure but scholarly European and Asian writers and claim they influenced your career.

"Rehearse a skill for blurting out spontaneous epigrams. They need not be relevant to the subject being discussed, or make much sense. It is the way writers are supposed to speak. 'No one can be graceful walking down hill.' 'Parents are mills grinding out neurotics.' 'Only in the dream does one behind reality.' . . .

"You are almost a genuine novelist. You have earned admission into a cult of national and international deceivers. The uniform is either attire so meticulously current you obviously employ a cadre of designers, or so disorderly that 'rag-bag' is your fashion statement. You are a novelist--the public stands in anticipation of your illustrious presence. Do not disappoint them by appearing to be ordinary."

LOL! I believe--I hope--that Bishop wrote that tongue in cheek. All I know is that most of the novelists I know are ordinary people, just like me, just like you.

Catch you in a line outside the ladies' room somewhere--

~~Angie
By Angela on Wednesday, September 02, 2009 @ 7:00 AM


for this post

 
Blogger SmilingSally Says: 8:26 AM  

I think that one of the reasons that you are my FAVORITE AUTHOR is because I connect to YOU. You write in a manner I understand--you speak my language--and therefore, your characters are flawed. (Spare me from flat characters!) Your situations are plausible.

I appreciate your blog; however, I am waiting for that next novel, so please keep writing!

 
 
Blogger Mocha with Linda Says: 9:14 AM  

One of the things that has delighted me the most about blogging has been the opportunity to get to know you and other authors that were only names on the spine of a book. And seeing the authentic beat of their/your hearts just makes me love the books more.

When I was in elementary school I remember having an epiphany of sorts and telling my mom "Even President Nixon puts on his pajamas and brushes his teeth before he goes to bed." Unfortunately, he didn't realize the importance of being a bit more set apart. . . !

 
 
Blogger Kay Day Says: 1:47 PM  

I've been in the loo at the same time as you! I even know which way you prefer to put the toilet paper because I went in after you and it was backwards! LOL
Thanks for being real, Angie. I know that my friends who met you this year appreciated it, too.

 
 
Blogger Ruth W Says: 2:42 PM  

Angie, I love that you are a down to earth person!
When you gave your talk to would be writers in Mansfield a few years ago, I was delighted to be there even tho I am not a writer, but a lover of good books.
Ruth W

 
 
Anonymous Ruthie Says: 12:26 AM  

You are so right on, Angie! God made us all just people, nothing special or extraordinary that would set us apart from the rest of creation...except, maybe, that God made us in His image and gave His only Son to redeem us back to Himself. Other than that, nada.

I learned this as a teen when we would have visiting missionaries or world-reknown evangelists as house guests. Invariably I would have to do their laundry (my mother would NEVER let them leave without having a suitcase full of clean clothing!) and let me tell you: dirty socks and underwear are dirty socks and underwear no matter who owns and wears them! It sure was an eye-opener and forged a confidence in me to relate to "famous" people in "people terms."

 

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About Me

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Location: Florida, United States

In no particular order, Angela Hunt is a novelist, teacher, nana, mother, wife, mastiff owner, reader, musician, student, aspiring theologian, and bubble gum connoisseur. The things that enter her life sooner or later find their way into her books, hence "a life in pages."

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Copyright Angela E. Hunt, 2011