Thanks, Rose McCauley

I'd like to thank Rose McCauley for nominating me for the Sisterhood of the World Blogging Award. A few years ago Rose invited me to a brainstorming weekend at her home, and we've been friends ever since. You can visit Rose at http://www.rosemccauley.com/

Rose asked me to answer the following questions.

1) Why do you write?

I've always been a writer at heart. I'd make up stories when I was little, and during my youth I'd read stories and think about how to write them better. In Girl Scouts I signed up for a pen pal, and I soon loved writing letters.

2) What single most important thing do you hope your readers will take away from your writing?

A deeper love of God.

3) What is the first adjective that comes to your mind to describe your writing?

Fun.

4) What, in your opinion, is our culture's most urgent need?

I think there are so many people who are only focused on themselves, and we need to turn our eyes back to Jesus. When we do this we'll begin to see others as He does, and we'll find ways to help others.

5) If you could start over again as a writer, what would you do differently? What would you do the same?

I think I would have started taking classes and reading books on the craft of writing sooner.

6) What is your greatest accomplishment as a writer?

One of my stories was a semi-finalist in the Genesis writing contest last year.

7) Who has most influenced your writing?

In the beginning, Brandilyn Collins and her mother, Ruth Seamands, both encouraged my writing. Brandilyn was also the one who encouraged me to join American Christian Fiction Writers, and she never quit telling me to attend the ACFW conference.

Tina Radcliffe has also been a great encourager along my journey. She has called me to discuss a story and gave me pointers to make it stronger. She has given me courage to enter writing contests where I've received valuable feedback. I got to meet Tina in St. Louis at the ACFW conference, and she was just as kind in person. Tina and the ladies at Seekerville have taught me so much on my writing journey, and I appreciate all of them.

8) Where do you see the publishing industry headed in the next five years?

I'd like to see a return to more "real" books and less e-books.

9) What is the role of the writer who follows Christ?

My role is to write stories that honor God. I'm not published yet. Ten years is the average length of time to get published. As I study and write stories, I make friendships and try to encourage other authors in the journeys.

10) What do you love most about the writing life?

I love the process of creating characters and stories. My work as a pharmacist is crazy with noise. Phones, faxes, and people. There's always noise. Good noise, but still noise. I enjoy going into my quiet office and writing.

Thanks, Rose for the award. I look forward to your next story.