A few weeks ago my friend Holly (she’s an amazing artist and designer) contacted me asking if I wanted to be part of a blog hop. I did, but I was not in position to join. I hated to say no, especially when Holly is someone I enjoy so very much AND she’s kind, talented and has the best laugh ever! So, thanks Holly for asking me.
Last week, internet friend Laura asked me about the same blog hop and the timing worked for me! Thanks Laura.
The idea is you answer four questions and then introduce you to three bloggers I like. If you’ve seen the movie Play it forward, this isn’t a radical concept. Nor unique to Hollywood. Remember what was said to Abraham? Blessed to be a blessing. Or the four beggars in Zechariah? Similar theme.
1 – What am I writing or working on?
This week I’m working on the August book club for Velvet Ashes. We’re doing My name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok. I’m also tossing around an idea for the fall. And I’m part of a small group that hopes to put on a Christian Writer’s conference in the Denver area next spring (how cool is that!).
2 – How does my work differ from others of its genre?
I feel I have a bit of a chameleon personality, getting along with almost everyone. I think my work reflects this — I try to create a space for most to feel welcome. I’ve also been wired to notice small things and use them as a springboard to great truth. (Or sometimes just a good laugh. For example, my sister texted me last week: “You’ll be glad to know I clarified to Niece #4 that Aunt Amy has a strong sense of smell, not a strong smell.” Are you kidding me? That comment has been the wind in my wings all week!)
3 – Why do I write what I write?
The reasons have changed. I originally started writing this blog thinking I could support myself as a writer. Hilarious, I know. I no longer really care if I’m published or not; I write because I’m wired for relationships and in this phase of life, this is how God is nurturing and using those wires.
4 – How does my writing process work?
First of all, BIC. Butt in chair. I’m fairly disciplined, but if I didn’t actually sit down, I’d have lots of lists of ideas. I do tend to map out a month and write in chunks.
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Now to the BEST part of this blog hop! Telling you about three friends and why I want you to read them. Each one lives in their own messy, beautiful lives and I’m glad to know them.
Well, now that I’ve written about each of them, this post is too long. And because I want you to have time to go and visit them, I’m going to do a part 2 tomorrow and introduce you to three of my friends.
What’s one way you’ve been blessed by others?
Amy
Amy,
I’ve been blessed by reading your blog. You talk about being wired a certain way. I think when I read good stuff it helps me rewire my brain for it expands it and makes it go places it has not been before and once expanded it can not go back to what it was.
Thanks for being one of those places I go to expand my thinking.
I love the concept of paying it forward. When I do something for someone and they want to do something back for me I usually decline and ask them to do something soon for someone else.
Mark I’ve learned so much from you over the course of our friendship here in the comments (and in other blogs in the comments too!). I’m not surprised to hear you “pay it forward,” as you are consistently kind and generous with your words!
I read “My name is Asher Lev” almost 12 years ago-it is fabulous!!! I’m going to pull it out again and re-read it.
Cynth, would love for you to join in! Potok is such a good writer and the themes in that book … don’t get me started :)
Amy, I just wanted to say that I LOVE your blog! I subscribe to hundreds of blogs and your blog is in a folder in Feedly marked Must Read. I always take time to read your posts. Thank you for your honesty and beautiful writing. I always look forward to new posts from you!
Michelle, thank you for taking the time to comment … I don’t write for the comments, but every now and then it’s helpful to know that what one does IS making a small difference and is noticed by folks. I appreciate the love and the feedback! AND being in your Must Read folder!! Thanks :)