“… and then we went to this little cafe–no, wait. First, we stopped at one of those roadside gift shops? Oh, it was all just junk. But, we were good tourists and…”
You know the person. You’ve been there. Everyone is discussing the goofiest souvenir they ever purchased when someone pipes up and instead of sharing his, he begins a narrative that ends not only the discussion but the party, too.
Sometimes blogs feel like that.
I mean, I sit here every week (sometimes multiple times a week) and share these long, rambly stories of my childhood, my crazy family, or something that taught me about something else.
I love it, okay? I love reliving the good and bad times and seeing what the Lord has done in my life. It’s wonderful. Other times I spout off my opinions. Because that’s what a blog is for–permission to climb up on that soapbox and pontificate your solutions to life’s evils and ills. It’s fun.
[clickToTweet tweet=”But if you’re not careful, blogging becomes a bit one-sided, doesn’t it? #blogging #amwriting” quote=”But if you’re not careful, blogging becomes a bit one-sided, doesn’t it? “]
Note:: There are no affiliate links in this post, but if there were (and if I were a good blogger there would be), they would provide me with a bit of a commission at no extra expense to you. I’m not supposed to tell you what I do with those, but it starts with a D, ends with an S and has a couple of Ns set off by an E and a Y. *whistles* Apparently, I’m not allowed to express my gratitude for you purchasing through my affiliate links either. So, I’m not SAYING thank you at all. Nope. Feeling… well, the rules didn’t say anything about that.
Where was I? Oh, yeah. I want more than just a one-sided discussion! I want to get to know you guys. You come here, you read, you participate in all my goofiness (thanks for humoring me!!!), and I try to show my appreciation with the episodes or gift cards now and then, but that still doesn’t help me know you. Who are you? Are you the willing wallflower who hides in corners and delights to watch the rest of the party revel in the socialness of it all? Or are you the center of attention, the life of every party. Are funerals safe around you? Just askin’…
Okay, those aren’t even things I thought of when I decided just to ask. Yep! I’m ASKING.
I even created an easy survey so I can get to know you better.
That’s right, five simple questions. That’s it. And one of them I even showed you how to “get an out” on it. That’s right. I went there. Just for you. So, I’m going to stop yammering and ask you to take the survey. And when you’re done, don’t forget to leave a comment.
Seriously, have a fabulous day! I so wish I could show you the ridiculous video I tried to make that wouldn’t upload. LOL.
I wasn’t really very informative on the survey! 🙂 I’m kind of a boring person.
i took the surgery. Thank you
Thank you! I should be drawing this week.
I took the survey from here in England
Thank you!! That’s so cool
I did your survey. So glad you are bringing back the serial episode this summer. I thought you weren’t going to finish it!
Well, that section here and section there wasn’t working. LOL!
I took the survey! 🙂
CutePolarBear
Thank you! I really do appreciate it!
I hit the wrong button and did not get to comment! That should tell you enough about me right there!!!???
MMMWWAAAHAHAHAH
That was a fun survey and different than I anticipated. Love your books, they make me laugh, cry, feel the characters you write about. I hear you on the heat; it was 101 here again today but starting to cool down. Blessings!
Thanks! I wanted it easy and not the same old, same old!
I love being social, but only after I get to know you. I am just as happy sitting in the corner people watching and occasionally overhearing others conversations wishing I could write a book… Lind of like someone in dennys. Lol! I love laughing. In fact at a cousins bridal shower recently another cousin and I were laughing so hard over her difficulties actually getting food to her mouth while trying to talk with her hands that we practically had to run to the bathroom. It made some think we were drunk (we weren’t) and others got joy from watching us have fun. I love bringing joy to others hearts.
Oh, I so get you. We could just go to Denny’s and write together. This could be a thing. Next time I’m in your neck of the woods, let me know. We’ll make this happen!
Well, I had almost shared my secret with you in your 5 question survey, when my hand slipped and I was surprised to find that I had sent my final “book wish” before I finished! Bummer! But, I did want to tell you that I really enjoy your writing for several reasons:
1. You create believable characters and memorable plots that are consistent with Christian values and inspire me to walk closer with Christ.
2. You have an incredible gift of interweaving plot lines within other plots! (I admire that – Anne McCaffrey comes to mind as the only other author I have read who can do that and not confuse me.)
3. Your writing makes me consider you a friend! – and one I could sit down and visit comfortably with for – oh, say – a few hours at a time (frequently, to be sure!).
4. I can’t wait for new installments in all of your series. I’d ask you to write faster, but you are so prolific already the request is nonsensical!
5. You make me want to end all of my comments to you with exclamation points!
Your response just made my day. Seriously. It’s hot, CRAZY humid, my lungs are full of gunk, and my book is almost done. I have a house masquerading as a disaster movie, and I really need a nap (just woke up an hour or so ago). But I think I’m ready to dive in and get this thing done. WOOT.
And if I’m ever talking about being in your area, be sure to let me know so we can get coffee. (But I’ll take Coke, thanks!)
🙂 Yes that was fun answering your questions. My book title was The Outcome…. Thanks it felt good to tell the reason for it. 🙂
OO…. I love that title. OFf to see what it’s about!
(finishing my last answet…) A courtship story. 3 rules: wait till you’re ready or almost ready for marriage before pursuing an exclusive relationship, involve people you trust and who love you (ie, parents) in the process, and engage your brain before letting go of your heart. Worked like a charm in our family, looked different every time, and I have 7 happily married kids. I hate romances that take people to the altar without asking hard lifestyle questions. (I don’t consider you guilty ;-).)
I’ve got similar plans for Aggie’s kids… showing both sides of the coin. 🙂
Love it! And I know there are some crazy ideas out there–not advocating that. But we learn so much by modeling and most of the models out there are far more about infatuation than wisdom.
I’d like to see your responses.
I’ll try to remember to add them in when I write about this! Thanks for a great idea!
I think you do an amazing job at making your readers feel included! Just saying.
Aw, thanks. That’s exactly how I want it to be… interaction, not pontification!
That was a fun survey! Thank you for wanting to get to know us better, and I hope the answer to what book we want will have results. 😀
I fully intend to play with those–even if just imaginary synopses to let folks vote on which one becomes a “thing.”
Thanks for your faithful writing, I love your books and always look forward to seeing what you’re up to. I admit to really wanting to see the next books in the Prairie and Highlands series, and more of your Rockland stories. I’d LOVE to move to HearthLand!!!
Seaside was supposed to finish up this year, but I have been playing with it and I think I’ve made it better by waiting. So maybe 2018!!!
Clearly another opportunity to exercise patience 😉
I’m all about helping you in your spiritual growth. You’re welcome. Ahem.
LOL, and gee, thanks :/
Thus was fun! I appreciate you wanting to get to know us!
Getting to know you, getting to know all about you. Getting to like you, gettign to hope you like me. 🙂 I love getting to know you guys! I have the BEST readers EVER. I kind of feel sorry for other authors, actually!
I wrote a comment, but I think it disappeared. I won’t write all that again. I do love your books and thank God for the talent He has given you!
It made it. But a bunch came in at once, so the site filed them in spam just in case. I sorted it out. And here yours are. Thank you for being so kind to me!
It took me some trouble to get to this section on your site. I need one of these young well-versed people to help. I love your books and only wish I had friends who read. Only a man at church who is a speed and has borrowed a lot of my books. Of course that is the only objection I have to the Kindle. I only knew a preacher’s wife and she had a Nook. I’m thankful to God who has given you this wonderful talent!
Aw, Barbara! Thanks. And many Kindle books can be loaned, but both people have to have a Kindle/app. And each one can only be loaned once. 🙁 I wish you lived closer. We could swap books. Squee!
well this was fun. Have a fabulous end of the summer
YAY! I’m so glad it’s fun. I didn’t want it to be a pain, you know? And you quilt. Aaah.. I love quilting.
I’m a sucker for surveys…so I got your email and I had to come over and chip my opinion into the batch!
WOOT! I love that you did that. You made my day! *raises glass… “Cheers!”*
I would love to be entered! What a great idea you had here! I bet you found out some wonderful things from your quirky and diverse readers. We have to be quirky – just like some of your characters – and diverse because that is how you write – you go in so many different directions you keep us hopping! Thank you for sharing your gift with us. We do so appreciate it.
Quirky people are the best… even if their quirk is that they have no quirks! I mean, talk about quirky! 😀
I took your survey. Thanks for entering me in the drawing.
Thank you so much! Good luck!
I just took your survey about getting to know me. It was great! I love your books and your insight to life. I always wish my life could be a little simplier sometimes. thanks for the time. Gladys
Oh, the simple life. It might be a dream, ut man… what a dream!
Fun ‘quiz’, and this is so you! You are such a caring person. And my favorite author!
Aw… I blush. And I’m grateful that you didnt find it annoying!
I did your survey. I would like to be in your drawing for a gift card at Amazon.
Thank you! I thought I’d be drawing by now, but I keep getting more responses, so I’m going to wait a few more days!
I enjoy reading and you always bring a smile to my face:)))
Aw, thanks! I try but that just means I’m very trying.
Thanks for creating the survey so you can get to know your fans better. That’s was fun, especially the last question. By the way… I’m so excited for new Vintage Wren episodes!!!!
The first one is already scheduled for Wednesday. Coming up… THE AFTERMATH. D:
The survey was fun. I have to say that I have read a lot of books but I always come back to yours. You have such a way with stories, I can’t wait for the next! Thank you for all your hard work.
Oh, thank you! That is so encouraging. And yes, there are a lot of great authors out there. I wish I had time for more, frankly!
Thank you for caring
You know what? Thank you for taking the time to reassure me that it SHOWS that I care. Because I’m not always good at that, you know?
I was expecting a lot more nosy questions… let down my guard and wham! The last question threw me off. 😀 But I’ll be more than happy to fill out surveys in the future, or even just answering questions.
YAY! I didn’t want it to be too much of a burden, but I did want the answers to help me provide the best content I can for you guys!
Love reading your books and your blog. You are SO real. Have a wonderful day!
Some would say REALly weird, but hey! I’ll take it! You have a great day, too!
filled out the survey – thanks for always being in touch with your fans!
Thank you for doing it! It’s so much fun!
I filled out the survey. Thanks!
Thanks for doing it!
[email protected] – did the survey 🙂
Thanks, Lena!
Hey, this is Pat and I answered your questions.
Hey, Pat! Thanks for doing that!
Fun survey. Thanks!
Thanks for taking it!
What a fun survey! I might have missed a question, though. One seemed to disappear when I clicked to begin.
So weird! I’m sorry. I’ll have to see if they’re all there or not.
That was fun!!! I’m a coffee girl – I even drink decaf because I love the taste! I have a fifth child who keeps me busier than the other four combined ever have. I missed something about the launch team judging from the comments. I’m sad you still haven’t made it to Dallas. And I love you. The end.
Okay, that’s it. You just made my day. Thanks. I’ve been battling a headache, so maybe now I can sleep in the warm glow of knowing I’m loved. Aaaah… zzzzz
Here’s my comment saying that I filled out the survey. 😉
YAY! Thanks!
I love you 🙂 I am thankful for your books and your blog! But you left out the New Living Translation which is my favorite translation 😀 ;-P
Pretty sure that’s a “Combo” A “balance” between both word for word and thought for thought.
Yes ma’am! 🙂
The survey was fun! I enjoy your books and your blog. Thanks for your kindness and generosity. You sent me a couple of free ebooks when I couldn’t afford to buy them.
I always think it’s silly to withhold books from those who can’t or won’t buy them anyway. They’re meant to be read!
Fun survey. Thanks!
Woot. I wonder if I can guess your answers before I look…
Great questions!
Thnak you! I can’t wait to see what I learn about you!
That was fun! Great idea too
Thanks! I love getting to know folks!
I did the survey. Fun!
Thanks! I can’t wait to share what I learn!
That was fun. Could use an Amazon gift card, too!
Rootin’ for you guys!
We seriously need to meet for coffee one day! I’d love to spend a day (or three) with you and chat! I would ask you these same questions, just for starters. So let me know when you mosey on over to Savannah, Georgia, okay? (In the meantime, keep up the good work on your blog!)
I was there two years ago. LOVED it. Spent all day wandering around the old town area in August 2 heat while I soaked up atmosphere and ideas. Went out to Tybee, found the area for Cora Dearling’s house… and the Dyrehurst Mysteries were born!
I’ll be flying into Atlanta in October. Wonder if my traveling buddy wants to take another detour.
How cool that you were here, yet I’m bummed that I was here too but hadn’t discovered you yet! Maybe I can catch up with you when you’re in Georgia! (Wait. You visited this are in AUGUST?!? Are you CRAZY?!?)
I’m from the desert. You can’t scare me with a little heat.
I LOVE this get-to-know-you game! Especially the last question! I have had a story idea in my head for several years, but I’m not very likely to do anything with it and this gives me an outlet to share it!
Coffee. Decaf. Caribou. LOTS of half & half.
Twinings Earl Grey Tea. Hot with cream or iced.
Stash Licorice Spice Tea. Yum.
Just in case you were wondering!
SCORE! I’ll leave the coffee to you and take that tea…
Hee hee. Well, I figure if I combine all into one epic novel, it’ll be a wild ride, but a funny one!
I did your survey. What fun! I’ve enjoyed reading about you on your blog and newsletter, and I hope you will now feel like you know your readers a little better too. Have a great day!
I’m having a BLAST!
By the way, just in case this was part of the deal–I did do the survey. I think I answered the business question in error. I did put our website there, but it is not a business. All information there is free! My hubby says God gave to us and we freely share it!
It’s still good to share, and I’ll try to remember to tell folks that when I do!
I love your books! Enjoy your blog! Could you think about putting some of your earlier books (kindle) on special or free *giggle* for some of us who were unaware of your awesome books back in the beginning? I would love to buy them all, but that really isn’t an option for me at full price. Thanks for whatever you can do.
I’m rewriting Noble, so you want to wait for that. TRUST ME. But I’ll make sure Ashley knows that there’s a need for earlier ones. 😀
Just editing so no one can spam Heather. Got the email in the comment form
Thanks, Heather!
Confused. Was there a coke vs. coffee question?????
Was I supposed to tell you my age?
Fifth child…what???
Okay. I now get the coke vs. coffee. I drink coffee occasionally. I prefer Pepsi to Coke, but I don’t have either a LOT. Of course, to a teetotaler (so to speak), I drink soda a LOT. But it’s usually once or twice a month… I guess.
Hee hee. Well, if you’re sweet tea or die, soda doesn’t cut it.
No. ALMOST never have sweet tea. But I just try to be moderate. 🙂
By the way, I DO have a fifth child! 🙂
Me, too! First son!
Mine was my FOURTH son! 🙂 But after that, I only had daughters! (ended up 4 and 4!!)
I had four, a boy, two girls, a boy, and a girl
I don’t unless I can’t avoid it out of politeness. 1/4 tsp MAX in my tall glass. MAX.
So you’re saying you might drink a sip of sweet tea if you have to??
I grew up with iced tea (south) — but as a little kid, I didn’t like it a lot — and then we moved north and I didn’t get the habit at an age when it would have taken.
I won’t be rude and refuse it if served, but I won’t request or order it. I grew up with semi-sweet tea. Mom made sun tea and then added 2 tbs of sugar to each glass f hers. At least. I wanted just a tiny pinch to cut the bitterness.
I know what you mean about cutting the bitterness. My great aunt or grandmother used to serve tea without sugar (sounds unusual for the south, and they were southerners through and through) — and they told me to put a little sugar in. I put some and stirred and stirred and tasted (ugh) and put more and stirred and stirred… On it went, till it was…palatable…sort of…
You have an interesting G/B pattern. 🙂 Mine is interesting, too, but not as much… (B, G, 3B, 3G).
I joke that if I ever had another child it would have to be a boy and we couldn’t have more because you can’t halve a person.
Hee hee. Sorry. I’m good at that confusing thing. WE’ve all got our skillz.
I can’t tell if I’m supposed to tell you that I filled in the survey??
Yep! Thanks!!!
Tun survey! But only one favourite musician? Seriously? I wouldn’t know where to begin!!!
Um… that was supposed to say FUN survey. And I can’t even blame a smart phone!
I don’t have one either. LOL
RIGHT? I always just have to answer the first name that comes to me on those things.
Bobby Vinton. 😛 I was a teenager in the 60’s, and I still love all my old favourites… but I’m pretty eclectic in my taste. My kids like a lot of it too, and because of them, I like a lot of the newer music too.
WHEEEEEEE!!! Roses are red, my love… LOVE BOBBY VINTON WHEE!
Single, never married, 65 next month, love to read Christian fiction/non-fiction.
Oooh! T think you sound fascinating.
That was fun! Although that last question was kind of sneaky…
Well, it does ep you see into the minds of your friends, right?
Super fun survey! ?
Not sure where the question mark came from. I was definitely making a statement. But alas, at times my smart phone is a bit smarter than I and decides to fix my writings. ?
I call them “Backseat writers.”
Hee hee. )
Didn’t see the Coke vs. coffee question. Coke all the way!!! I love reading your blog, your books, etc because you are real and you are interesting. There is both depth and a lot of fun in your writing with a good balance of each. Meeting you was a blast! I’m just waking up so my brain is not totally on yet. Plus it’s VBS week. Fun but exhausting.
I’m worn out just hearing about it. EEEP.
Fun! So will you be gleaning inspiration from our final answers and make our dreams come true?
Is your dream for Legends 2? YES!
I did the survey. But I didn’t get to answer what I like best about your blog posts! Some of them are a little more serious, but I love the “ramblings” which always make me laugh–and often leave me with more questions about your childhood than before I started reading!
It was a rather magical time. Weird. But magical.
Loved this!! Thanks for wanting to know us too!
You’re wonderful people. Why wouldn’t I?
I did your survey. Sorry my last question was so long! Lol. Love your stuff. You come as close to “real life” as more than most!
Suz Ness
I don’t think that there can be a final question long enough, so you did just fine. Thank you!
I played!
But, really. Why does not one tell you about the fifth child?
MMMMWAAAHAHAHAHA! You win funniest response award!
Chautona, my dear, I love to read your blog! I feel like I’m having a conversation with one of my best friends. Your emails are ones I always read. Thanks for the little survey. It was fun.
Thank you! I love “Chatting” with you!
Took your survey. I’ll be curious if you end up with some sort of data analysis. Or a post about what you learned from these questions.
🙂
I absolutely will be sharing some of the results! Anything not too personal. If someone shares the social security number of their first child or something… I ‘m keeping that info for myself. Always wanted a nice even ten kids…
Thank you. It was fun. I did not feel like I could think of things very well so I apologize my answers are boring.
No answers are boring! I’m enjoying them! Any chance you’re the needle felter?
This was fun. This is in addition to the Launch Team one, correct?
YES!
I enjoyed the “Get to know you” survey! Thanks, Chautona!
YAY! I love your book idea!
I sent you an email before doing this survey. ?
That’s for the launch team I presume?
Yes. ? that was for the launch team. I tried a one word answer and it told me to go back and write more. ??