by Loretta Eidson When I stepped into the water I felt an awesome thing, Deep inside my being was the rumbling of a spring. A flash before my eyes was the life I had lived, Then I realized . . . Jesus will forgive. My mouth began to utter repentance in His name, No longer do I hang my head in unforgiven shame. Oh, I’ll never leave this water; I’ll not miss the dry land ‘Cause my eyes have been opened to the spiritual side of man. I long for my family and all those around To step into this water… 

While reading Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer, it occurred to me the irony of how well that title describes the multitude of thoughts in writer’s minds. We enter a mental battlefield every time we sit down to write. While our thoughts press against a pliable wall of ideas, we must filter through them before a structured story can emerge in an intriguing manner. We delve into dictionaries and thesauruses in search of the perfect descriptive words that will capture our audience and make a difference. We study, evaluate, rationalize, and think through all the critiques, recommendations, and guidelines… 

What happens at a writer’s conference? Chatter, squeals, hugs, laughter … and prayer! Imagine going to a conference where everyone has the same interest as you, whether the focus is on quilting, art, woodworking, or any other hobby or job. Adrenaline peaks as the conversation escalates on the newest techniques, what works or doesn’t work, and ho w to make your dream project the best it can be. Then, to meet professionals who have even more wisdom to offer. This is how writer’s feel when we all gather in one place. We see old friends who traveled across the U.S…. 

It is my pleasure to welcome Chris Maxwell as a guest here on Loretta’s Loft. Chris is a the author of several non-fiction books, he is a pastor and a profound speaker. He gave me my first opportunities at freelance writing and has been an encourager to me and my heartfelt call to write Christian romantic suspense. To Chris, I am grateful. To God, I give the Glory. Take it away Chris… During a recent discussion with a friend, I emphasized the importance of revisiting. Revisiting past experiences we seek to deny or avoid, revisiting healthy life seasons, revisiting songs or days or events…. 

For months, I have driven passed this tree along the ninety-one-mile trek of highway as my husband and I travel to visit family and friends in our old hometown. Every time we’d pass it, I’d tell myself, “I want a picture of that tree.” Finally, last week, we pulled to the shoulder of the highway, and my husband snapped the photo…so here you have it. Why was it so important to me? People are like this tree. Their lives have branched out in multiple directions. Now, my analytical friends are probably saying, “Loretta, that’s just a dead tree.” To which… 

by Loretta Eidson In the little town where Jesus lived so very long ago A standard was being lifted high, as this young boy did grow. His Father had a special plan for his life, you see. To Him, it was a priceless gift for all humanity. As time passed revealing a man with wisdom beyond measure, Little did this town know they beheld a Heavenly Treasure. In obedience to his Father, and the work that must be done, Jesus set out to fulfill the plan as God’s only Son. In his attempt to help mankind by healing those sick… 

I am pleased to welcome my writing mentor and friend, best-selling author DiAnn Mills to guest blog on Loretta’s Loft today. Her expertise and guidance in novel writing and character development has helped me grow as a writer. She is an amazing lady! Continuing reading to find out about her random drawing. Hit and Run Emotions by DiAnn Mills          While driving back from the grocery store, I was hit by a truck and the driver took off. The emotions I experienced were shock, anger, and a twinge of fear. The latter one was probably because I write suspense, and my… 

Today, I welcome Darlene L. Turner as a guest on my blog. Darlene is a gifted writer and a dear friend. Her story will touch your heart. Please feel free to comment below.   Writing Through Grief By Darlene L. Turner “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help” (Psalm 121:1 KJV). I stare out the living room window, my vision blurring and tears forming. I shuffle into the kitchen and peer out the back window. Perhaps the view from there would be different and change my situation. It didn’t. My brother was still… 

Have you ever noticed how some people stand out in a crowd? They seem to ooze confidence mixed with a carefree, fun-loving personality, while others shuffle through the crowd in a mellow sort of way speaking to everyone. Then, you have those who prefer to be invisible as they sink back and observe the crowd from the dim corners of the room. How about you? Did your mind just take you to your most comfortable place in a crowd? Have you ever switched gears and moved into a different category? People change as life happens. The corner hugger could suddenly… 

Does your impatience include a huff while standing in line at the store or waiting at a table at a busy restaurant? Inevitably, if you’re not the guilty party, someone around you fits the bill. The line is long, the wait is exhausting, and now there’s a price check at the register. Or your waitress doesn’t take your order in record time. You sit, tapping your watch in hopes she’ll see how time is slipping away and how she’s neglecting your table. It’s not new to society. The disgruntled sighs and huffs sing out simultaneously as impatience makes its dissatisfaction…