I Have Some Things I Need to Tell You

Consider this a roundup of important stuff as we head into Spring

If you’re new around here—welcome. I’m just so glad you’re here. Usually, this is a place where you’ll find thoughtful essays, podcasts, or poems around theology, the craft of writing, or the art of living, but today I have so many things racked up in my brain that I’m going to just list them here for you, rapid-fire style. There’s a lot of goodness and if I hold onto it any longer I’ll surely forget something, so here goes:

1. THE NEXT NONFICTION BOOK PROPOSAL COHORT IS OPEN FOR REGISTRATION! And this time, I’m offering it at NIGHT for all you night owls. Woohoo!

   

   Here’s what some of the members from the last Cohort had to say about their experience:

   1. “Deidre's book proposal cohort was a tremendous help in getting to the next step of my (first-time) author journey. She provided valuable insight and information you couldn't find on Google, sure. But not only that, she's genuinely caring and gives her heart to the task of guiding and equipping every member of the cohort. I definitely got more than I paid for. It was worth all the time and resources I gave up to be in the class. Top notch!”

   2. “The Nonfiction Book Proposal Cohort with Deidre Braley was a true gift. Not only do you learn everything you need to know about nonfiction book proposals with the utmost detail and care, but you are also given a loving and supportive community that wants the best for you and your writerly endeavors. I will prize my time with this cohort and Deidre's gentle and encouraging guidance long after my book proposal is completed.”

   3. "When I came to the Book Proposal Cohort I had a seed of an idea for a book. Through the instruction, community with others, and wisdom of Deidre Braley, that seed of an idea sprouted into a vibrant fruit tree bursting with life. Her skills as a writer and editor really come through and she offers real world instruction on how to do every step of a Book Proposal from start to finish. The peer connections with another writer and time to work and receive feedback in every class were highlights of the cohort. Having the VIP package really helped with the extra individual sessions and proposal feedback she gave me. If you want to write a book, Deidre Braley is the person you need to accomplish your goal!"

      There are only 10 SEATS available, because my goal is to keep this an intimate community where every person feels seen, valued, and heard. So if you’re thinking of joining us, make sure to get your seat at the table!

      If you want to learn more about WHO this Book Proposal Cohort is for, WHY it is essential, and HOW it will help, this article that I published before the first cohort will tell you everything you need to know (but please note the dates/times have been updated since then):

2. The Spring Journal from The Way Back to Ourselves is now available online, and dear friends—it’s the best one yet.

   Kimberly Phinney
   ,
   Kimberly Kralovic
   ,
   By Sarah Steele
   , and
   Ashley Whittemore
   have outdone themselves. The theme is “In His Garden,” and so many people whose work I respect and admire are featured in this issue. You could get properly lost for an entire day just taking it all in.

   

   Also featured in this issue are two of my original poems: Mother Tongue of the Father and First Intentions. I will be so bold as to say that Mother Tongue of the Father is perhaps my favorite poem I’ve ever written; it is the summation of my understanding about God, humanity, and the interaction between the two.

   

3. Lastly, there are 3 NEW BOOKS/MAGAZINE ISSUES that I want to share with you. They are brilliant. They are soulful. They’ll make your life sweeter. Here they are:

   1. Exalted Ground: Poems of Praise and Lament for Living by

      Kimberly Phinney
      .

      If you read Kimberly’s first book of poetry, Of Wings & Dirt, you already know that her words are not to be missed. I had the extreme privilege of reading this book before it was published as its editor, and I can say with total confidence—you will love this book.

      

   2. All The Things I Say to God: Learning to Pray Anytime, Anywhere by

      Tanner Olson
      .

      Tanner told us the story behind his debut children’s book on the latest episode of The Second Cup Show. I’m eagerly awaiting my copies to arrive in the mail so I can share them with our children, yes, but also our nieces, nephews, and family friends, too.

      

   3. The Nature Issue from The Truly Co. Magazine is now shipping. This is a gorgeous Christian women’s print magazine, and I am proud to be on the team as the Editorial Content Director. This issue is especially stunning and would make a wonderful gift for yourself or any women you love.

      

      ---

      Alright, folks. I hope you found all sorts of good stuff to build up your creativity & spirit here today. Sending you all sorts of love. And tell me in the comments below…

      Which of these offerings are YOU most excited about?